bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defining and benchmarking open problems in single-cell analysis
Authors: Luecken Malte , Gigante Scott , Burkhardt Daniel , Cannoodt Robrecht , Strobl Daniel , Markov Nikolay , Zappia Luke , Palla Giovanni , Lewis Wesley , Dimitrov Daniel , Vinyard Michael , Magruder Daniel , Andersson Alma , Dann Emma , Qin Qian , Otto Dominik , Klein Michal , Botvinnik Olga , Deconinck Louise , Waldrant Kai , Rieck Bastian , Ahlmann-Eltze Constantin , Beltrame Eduardo da Veiga , Benz Andrew , González-Blas Carmen Bravo , Chen Ann , DeMeo Benjamin , Ergen Can , Floc'hlay Swann , Gayoso Adam , Hicks Stephanie , ji yuge , Kleshchevnikov Vitalii , Manno Gioele La , Lombardo Maximilian , Lopez Romain , Righelli Dario , Sarkar Hirak , Svensson Valentine , Tong Alexander , Xing Galen , Xu Chenling , Bloom Jonathan , Pisco Angela , Saez-Rodriguez Julio , Wulsin Drausin , Pinello Luca , Saeys Yvan , Theis Fabian , Krishnaswamy Smita
Published: April 2024

With the growing number of single-cell analysis tools, benchmarks are increasingly important to guide analysis and method development. However, a lack of standardisation and extensibility in current benchmarks limits their usability, longevity, and relevance to the community. We present Open Problems, a living, extensible, community-guided benchmarking platform including 10 current single-cell tasks that we envision will raise standards for the selection, evaluation, and development of methods in single-cell analysis.
A study of acupuncturing “Chou’s Tiaoshen” acupoints on short-term insomnia patients: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wong ZiYi , Hong Qiuyang , He Yeqing , Yan XiaoYu , Liu Qian , Cao Mingyang , Zhao Ruotong , Fei Yichen , He Keren , Li Huanqin
Published: April 2024

Background: The incidence of short-term insomnia is high. Timely intervention of short-term insomnia has important significance to prevent it from developing into chronic insomnia which can lead to a heavy health burden. At present, the treatment of short-term insomnia is limited. Acupuncture is an effective and mature treatment for insomnia with a long history in China and is increasingly recognized internationally. However, there are few studies on short-term insomnia and no clinical studies on acupuncture treatment of short-term insomnia reported.
Methods: Our team intends to conduct a randomized controlled trial to compare the "Chou’s Tiaoshen" acupuncture method with estazolam to explore the effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of short-term insomnia. A total of 88 eligible patients with short-term insomnia will be randomized in a ratio of 1:1 to the acupuncture group ("Chou’s Tiaoshen" acupoints) and estazolam group. The primary outcome measure is Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Secondary outcome measures are Polysomnography (PSG), heart rate variability (HRV), serum cortisol, Ford Insomnia Response to Stress Test (FIRST), daytime functional scale, Traditional Chinese Medicine（TCM） symptom scoring Scale. Clinical assessments will be performed both at baseline and after treatment.
Discussion: This study aims to explore the therapeutic effect of acupuncture in the treatment of short-term insomnia. Furthermore, more and more studies have suggested that compared with chronic insomnia, short-term insomnia is more related to hyperarousal. We will explore the possible mechanism of acupuncture in the treatment of short-term insomnia from the perspective of hyperarousal mechanism by testing heart rate variability, serum cortisol and FIRST.
Ethics and trial registration: This protocol has been approved by the Research Ethical Committee of Beijing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Beijing TCM Hospital), the approval number is 2023BL02-103-02. It’s also been registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (URL: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06212934).
Evaluating the impact of storage time and temperature on the stability of biochemical compounds and microbial quality in cherry syrup from the 'Burlat' cultivar
Authors: Ouaabou Rachida , Hssaini Lahcen , Ennahli Said , Alahyane Abderrahim , Nabil Bouchra
Published: April 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of storage time and temperature on the biochemical and sanitary quality of cherry syrup made from the "Burlat" cultivar cherries. The syrup was pasteurized at 70°C for 2 minutes and stored at four temperatures (-20, 4, 28, and 40°C) for six months. The total phenolic (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC), total anthocyanin (TAC), and antioxidant activity (AA) of the syrup were monitored throughout the storage period. Results showed that there was no statistically significant loss of TPC, TFC, TAC, and AA up to 60 days of storage at -20°C and 4°C (p < 0.05). However, at 28°C and 40°C, a significant loss was observed from 30 days of storage. ATR-FTIR analysis confirmed the degradation of syrup nutritive compounds around the vibration regions attributed mainly to proteins and phenols as a function of temperature and storage time. Microbial control revealed that no molds or yeasts were detected at any temperature treatment during the 6-month storage period. Overall, this study suggests that low temperature storage (-20°C) is recommended to maintain the microbiological and biochemical quality of cherry syrup.
The Relationship Between Thyroid Autoantibodies and X Chromosome Monosomy in the Chorionic Tissue of Patients with Missed Miscarriage
Authors: Zhao Lu , Liu Li , Yang Hua
Published: April 2024

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between thyroid autoantibodies (TGAb and TPOAb) and X chromosome monosomy in the chorionic tissue of patients with missed early miscarriage.
Methods The baseline data, thyroid function, thyroid antibody and the chromosomes from the chorionic tissue of 228 patients with missed early miscarriage were examined.
Results(1) Among the 228 patients, 121 had a normal chromosome number, and 107 had an abnormal chromosome number. The majority of them were autosomal trisomy, of which trisomy 16 (40.19%) was predominant. Sex chromosome monosomy (28.04%) was secondary. (2) Among the 228 patients, 208 had normal thyroid function, including 141 who were negative for TGAb and TPOAb; 2 had clinical hyperthyroidism; 3 had subclinical hypothyroidism; 1 had low T4 syndrome; and 70 were just positive for TGAb and/or TPOAb. (3) After exclusion of patients with thyroid function abnormalities, there were no significant differences in baseline data between the normal chromosome group and the abnormal chromosome group (P> 0.05). However, there was a significant difference in TGAb and TPOAb between the normal chromosome and abnormal chromosome group with 45, X karyotype, with a higher proportion of TGAb and/or TPOAb positivity in the 45, X karyotype group (P < 0.05). Additionally, compared to TGAb and/or TPOAb-positive patients, the risk of X chromosome monosomy was significantly reduced in TGAb and TPOAb-negative patients (P < 0.05). Moreover, an increase in TGAb and TPOAb titers also increased the risk of X chromosome monosomy abnormalities (P < 0.05).
Conclusion There is a correlation between TGAb, TPOAb and X chromosome monosomy in the chorionic tissue of patients with missed early miscarriage, although the mechanism remains to be further investigated.
Assessing the Impact of Small Firm Dynamics on Public Mental Health Amid the Pandemic in Latin America
Authors: Díaz Fernando , Henríquez Pablo A.
Published: April 2024

The aim of our study is to examine the relationship between the economic activity of small firms and the mental well-being of the population in five Latin American countries in the early stages of the pandemic. We utilize the search volume of certain keywords on Google Trends (GT), such as "boredom," "frustration," "loneliness," "sleep", "anxiety", and "depression", as an indicator of the well-being of the population. By examining the data from Facebook Business Activity Trends, we investigate how social attention reacts to the activity levels of different economic sectors. Increased business activity is generally associated with reduced levels of boredom, loneliness, sleep problems and anxiety. The effect on depression varies by sector, with positive associations concentrated in onsite jobs. In addition, we observe that strict Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs) tend to exacerbate feelings of boredom and loneliness, sleep issues, and anxiety. Our findings suggest a strong association between different indicators of psychological well-being and the level of activity in different sectors of the economy.
Influence of Preheating Resin Composites: A Nano CT assessment on Voids, Internal Adaptation and Post-Gel Shrinkage Strain
Authors: Sundaravarathan Rajaram , Venkataiah Venkata Suresh , Mehta Deepak , Naganath Meena , Sindagi Swabhaanu Manoj , Guru Ajay , Shaik Mohammed Rafi , Mallik Saurav , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: April 2024

Background
Resin-based composites stand as widely employed restorative materials in the field of dentistry, owing to their superior esthetic and physicochemical properties. Nevertheless, a notable limitation of these composites is the occurrence of polymerization shrinkage, leading to stress at the interface of tooth restoration. Over time, this phenomenon may result in marginal leakage and secondary caries, thereby causing restoration failure.
Objectives
Our study aimed to conduct a comparative evaluation of voids, internal adaptation, and polymerization shrinkage in Class II preheated composite restorations [5 seconds vs. 20 seconds] and composites at room temperature [20 seconds], utilizing Nano CT analysis.
Methods
Cylindrical Class II cavities were prepared on both mesial and distal sides of Fifteen freshly extracted human maxillary premolar teeth. The specimens were then randomly allocated into three groups and restored as follows: Group 1 [Filtek Supreme XT at room temperature, photocured for 20 seconds], Group 2 [Filtek Supreme XT composite preheated to 68°C in Compex HD, photocured for 20 seconds], and Group 3 [Filtek Supreme XT composite preheated to 68°C in Compex HD, photocured for 5 seconds]. Nano CT was employed for the qualitative assessment of the samples. Statistical analysis involved the Shapiro-Wilkins test, ONE WAY ANOVA test, followed by Tukey’s HSD Post hoc analysis.
Results
Significantly improved outcomes were observed in preheated composite groups, irrespective of the photo curing time, when compared to the room temperature composite group in terms of polymerization shrinkage. The room temperature composite group exhibited the highest void volume and frequency among the investigated groups.
Conclusions
Within the constraints of the study, it can be deduced that preheating at 68°C and light curing for 5 seconds enhance internal adaptation and reduce the incidence of voids in composite restoration. Clinicians should be informed about clinical techniques that mitigate shrinkage stress to improve the durability of composite restorations. Clinicians should be informed about clinical techniques that mitigate shrinkage stress to improve the longevity of composite restorations.
From anomalous dissipation through Euler singularities to stabilized finite element methods for turbulent flows
Authors: Fehn Niklas , Kronbichler Martin , Lube Gert
Published: April 2024

It is well-known that kinetic energy produced artificially by an inadequate numerical discretization of nonlinear transport terms may lead to a blow-up of the numerical solution in simulations of fluid dynamical problems such as incompressible turbulent flows. However, the community seems to be divided whether this problem should be resolved by the use of discretely energy-preserving or dissipative discretization schemes. The rationale for discretely energy-preserving schemes is often based on the expectation of exact conservation of kinetic energy in the inviscid limit, which mathematically relies on the assumption of sufficient regularity of the solution. There is the (contradictory) phenomenological observation in turbulence that flows dissipate energy in the limit of vanishing molecular viscosity, an "anomalous" phenomenon termed dissipation anomaly or the zeroth law of turbulence. As already conjectured by Onsager, the Euler equations may dissipate kinetic energy through the formation of singularities of the velocity field. With the proof of Onsager's conjecture in recent years, a consequence for designing numerical methods for turbulent flows is that the smoothness assumption behind conservation of energy in the inviscid limit becomes indeed critical for turbulent flows. The velocity field rather has to be expected to show singular behavior towards the inviscid limit, supporting the dissipation of kinetic energy. Our main argument is that designing numerical methods against the background of this physical behavior is a strong rationale for the construction of dissipative (or dissipation-aware) numerical schemes for convective terms. From that perspective, numerical dissipation does not appear artificial, but as an important ingredient to overcome problems introduced by energy-conserving numerical methods such as the inability to represent anomalous dissipation as well as the accumulation of energy in small scales, which is known as thermalization. This work discusses stabilized H1, L2, and H(div)-conforming finite element methods with a focus on the energy-stability of the numerical method and its dissipation mechanisms to predict inertial dissipation. Finally, we discuss the achievable convergence rate for the kinetic energy in under-resolved turbulent flow simulations.
Investigating the Role of Leptin, Resistin, and Irisin Levels as Prognostic Indicators in Iraqi Lung Cancer Patients
Authors: Hanoush Noor , Rashied Rashied , Mohammed Abdul Rahman
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Lung cancer is the most lethal malignancy and is often associated with a poor prognosis. However, limited studies have tested leptin, resistin, and irisin as biomarkers in lung cancers. Thus, this study aimed to determine whether irisin, resistin, and leptin could be useful biomarkers for lung cancer diagnosis.
Methods
The study is designed on 100 lung cancer patients at age rang (40–75) years, these patients divided in to (66) patients with non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and (34) patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC). For the purpose of comparison, (66) samples as control group with age range (40–70) years. Each patient and control had five milliliters of blood taken. Then the sera used to estimate the Leptin, Resistin, and Irisin by using ELISA technique.
Results
The results indicates the mean of Leptin was significant increase in NSCLC and SCLC groups (10.71 ± 0.30 and 10.13 ± 0.51)ng/ml respectively, in contrast to the control group (8.26 ± 0.47) ng/ml. The mean of Irisin significant increase in SCLC group (5.86 ± 0.13) pg/ml and NSCLC group(5.08 ± 0.09)pg/ml in contrast to the control group (4.13 ± 0.09) pg/ml. Resistin had been significant increase in SCLC group (7.25 ± 0.38)ng/ml followed by NSCLC group (6.35 ± 0.13)ng/ml compared with control group (3.96 ± 0.17) ng/ml.
Conclusion
The higher levels of leptin in NSCLC patients could serve as prognostic marker for NSCLC. The variations in Resistin and Irisin levels across different stages of lung cancer suggest that they might be useful in predicting the prognosis of lung cancer.
The Effect of the Endothelial Surface Layer on Cell-Cell Interactions in Microvessel Bifurcations.
Authors: Triebold Carlson , Barber Jared
Published: April 2024

Red blood cells (RBCs) carry oxygen and make up 40-45% of blood by volume. Because of their finite size and their large volume fraction, they are heterogeneously distributed throughout the body. This is partially because RBCs are distributed or partitioned nonuniformly at diverging vessel bifurcations where blood flows from one vessel into two. Despite its increased recognition as an important player in the microvasculature, few studies have explored how the endothelial surface layer (ESL; a vessel wall coating) may affect partitioning and RBC dynamics at diverging vessel bifurcations. Here we use a mathematical and computational model to consider how altering ESL properties, as can occur in pathological scenarios, change partitioning, RBC deformation and penetration of the ESL. The two-dimensional finite element model considers pairs of cells, represented by interconnected viscoelastic elements, passing through an ESL lined diverging vessel bifurcation. The properties of the ESL include the hydraulic resistivity and an osmotic pressure difference modeling how easily fluid flows through the ESL and how easily the ESL is structurally compressed, respectively. We find that cell-cell interaction leads to more uniform partitioning and greatly enhances the effects of ESL properties especially for deformation and penetration. This includes the trend that increased hydraulic resistivity leads to more uniform partitioning, increased deformation, and decreased penetration. It also includes the trend that decreased osmotic pressure increases penetration.
Barriers to perform research studies from the perspective of medical students of Khyber Medical College, Peshawar
Authors: Rehman Muhammad Zohaib , Yahya Abdullah , Shehryar Malik , Imran Junaid
Published: April 2024

Introduction:
The pursuit of medical research is a cornerstone of scientific progress and contributes to the development of healthcare systems. Despite the well-known benefits of involving medical students in research, barriers and challenges often hinder their active participation.
Objective:This study investigates the barriers hindering medical students at Khyber Medical College, Peshawar, in their pursuit of research opportunities, to facilitate a more research-oriented environment that enhances their scholarly output and contributes to the broader field of healthcare.
Methods and Materials:
Design: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from 30th May to 30th August involving 264 3rd- to 5th-year MBBS medical students (participants) currently enrolled in Khyber Medical College, Peshawar (Setting). Intervention: The data were collected through a self-administered, validated questionnaire. SPSS version 27.0 was used for analyzing the data. One sample t-tests and ANOVAswere used to assess associations between variables. A P value <0.05 was considered to indicate statistical significance. The primary outcome measure was the mean score of barriers from the Likert scale used in the questionnaire. A comparison of different categories of barriers was also performed as a part of a secondary outcome measure.
Results:
The study revealed that medical students at Khyber Medical College encounter significant barriers to research, with an overall mean score of 3.9110 ± 0. 4645. The most significant barriers were the failure to allocate sufficient funds (4.37±0.764) and the absence of a research-oriented culture in society (4.34± 0.794). Conversely, the least prominent barriers were a lack of proficiency in English (3.09±1.248) and inadequate facilities (3.38± 1.357).
Conclusion:
This study sheds light on the challenges faced by medical students in pursuing research at Khyber Medical College, Peshawar. Addressing these barriers is essential for enhancing the research culture, educational excellence, and healthcare outcomes.
MINDSCOPE: Machine-learning Inferencing of NeuroData for Seamless Cognitive Overload Prediction and Evaluation
Authors: Katinni Rahul , R Sreeja S , Bablani Annushree
Published: April 2024

Passive brain-computer interfaces (P-BCIs) offer the ability to dynamically adapt system interactions by inferring users’ cognitive states, such as levels of mental workload, from neural data. The P-BCI devices have many applications from analyzing and designing educational materials to monitoring the mental health of professionals operating airplanes, nuclear power plants, and airline traffic dispatchers. Electroencephalography (EEG) is the most suitable P-BCI device that can easily find applications in daily life due to its cost efficiency and device setup simplicity as compared to other devices like Functional near- infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) or Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) that are either costly or are bulky equipment that cannot be used in real life scenarios. The goal of this work is to classify the cognitive load of the user using his/her EEG output using machine learning (ML) techniques, following the MINDSCOPE (Machine Learning Inferencing of NeuroData for Seamless Cognitive Overload Prediction and Evaluation) methodology. The data acquisition was done by recording the EEG signal of the users performing n-back tasks of two different load intensities (rest and 2-back). This study accurately classified user cognitive load as high or low, allowing for comparison of several ML models and their performance in cognitive load discrimination. Feature subset analysis identified the combina- tion with the highest classification accuracy, shedding light on effective feature characterization for cognitive load assessment. Depending on the context of P-BCI use, the current work gives a starting point for choosing appropriate ML paradigms and feature characterizations to incorporate for a specific cognitive assessment task.
Association analyses of Apolipoprotein E genotypes and cognitive performance in patients with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Zhu Shi-Guo , Chen Zhu-Ling , Xiao Ke , Wang Zi-Wei , Lu Wen-Bin , Liu Rong-Pei , Huang Shi-Shi , Zhu Jian-Hong , Zhang Xiong , Wang Jian-Yong
Published: April 2024

Background: Cognitive impairment is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s disease (PD). The apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 genotype increases the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the effect of APOEε4 on cognitive function of PD patients remains unclear. In this study, we aimed to understand whether and how carrying APOEε4 affects cognitive performance in patients with early-stage and advanced PD.
Methods: A total of 119 Chinese early-stage PD patients were recruited. Movement Disorder Society Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale, Hamilton anxiety scale, Hamilton depression scale, non-motor symptoms scale, Mini-mental State Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and Fazekas scale were evaluated. APOE genotypes were determined by polymerase chain reactions and direct sequencing. Demographic and clinical information of 521 early-stage and 262 advanced PD patients were obtained from Parkinson’s Progression Marker Initiative (PPMI).
Results:No significant difference in cognitive performance was found between ApoEε4 carriers and non-carriers in early-stage PD patients from our cohort and PPMI. The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Amyloid Beta 42 (Aβ42) level was significantly lower in ApoEε4 carrier than non-carriers in early-stage PD patients from PPMI. In advanced PD patients from PPMI, the BJLOT, HVLT retention and SDMT scores seem to be lower in ApoEε4 carriers with marginal statistical differences.
Conclusions: APOEε4 carriage does not affect the cognitive performance of early-stage PD patients. However, it may promote the decline of CSF Aβ42 level and the associated amyloidopathy, which is likely to further contribute to the cognitive dysfunction of PD patients in the advanced stage.
Giant hepatoid adenocarcinoma of the transverse colon in an 84- year-old woman: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lin Chen , Wang Peipei , Wang Ziyan , Li Mingxia , Wu Bin
Published: April 2024

Background: Hepatoid adenocarcinoma (HAC) is a rare extrahepatic tumor. The most common origin of HAC was the stomach (63%). HACs originating from the colon or rectum are rare.
Case presentation: We present a case of an 84-year-old Chinese woman diagnosed with a giant hepatoid adenocarcinoma with chief complaint of a large abdominal mass. A plain CT scan of the region showed an irregularly thickened transverse colon wall with a length of approximately 15 cm in the intestine. The patient underwent an extended right hemicolectomy and partial small intestinal resection. The patient successfully recovered and was discharged.
Conclusion: HACs are less likely to occur in the colorectum. We recommend that surgeons intervene aggressively if the patient’s condition permits.
The mechanism of Lycii Cortex intervention in essential hypertension was analyzed based on metabolomics and gut microbiota
Authors: Shan Yuwei , Yuan Yuan
Published: April 2024

Objectives:To determine the hypotensive effect of Lycii Cortex on spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) based on gut microbiota and untargeted metabonomics.
Methods：8-9 weeks of ages SHR rats were randomly divided into a model group, model drug delivery group; Wistar-Kyoto Rat (WKY) were used as controls. Feces were collected after 4weeks of gavage. Study the influence of SHR’s fecal metabolites and gut microbiota after Lycii Cortex extract administation by using LC-MS and 16S rDNA gene sequencing. The data were also analysed using methods such as multivariate statistical analysis and Spearman’s correlation.
Result: Lycii Cortex had a significant hypotensive effect on SHR (p<0.01), and regulated levels of metabolites such as serotonin, Taurochenodeoxycholic Acid and Glycochenodeoxycholic Acid. Its associated metabolic pathways are bile secretion, biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids, etc. Lycii Cortex extract was also found to modulate the abundance of benefical bacteria in the gut of spontaneously hypertensive rats.
Conclusion: Lycii Cortex extract can improve the state of essential hypertension by regulating the balance of gut microorganisms. From the perspective of metabolimics and gut microbiota, it can help to explore the pathogenesis of essential hypertension and the intervention mechanism of the traditional Chinese medicine Lycii Cortex at the molecular level.
Distilbert-gnn: a Powerful Approach to Social Media Event Detection
Authors: Abagissa Asres Temam , Saxena Shruti , Chandra Joydeep
Published: April 2024

Finding events actively discussed locally or globally is a significant problem when mining social media data streams. Identifying such events can serve as an early warning system in an event such as an accident, a protest, an election, or other breaking news. However, with the massive volume of social media feeds streaming, early detection of such events is inherently complex. Despite the advances in social media event detection, existing methods often struggle with the dynamic nature of social media, the volume and velocity of data, and the ambiguity in user-generated content. On the contrary, several relational aspects are present in social media that, if suitably handled and exploited, can improve detection performance. To mitigate these challenges, we propose "DistilBERT-GNN," an incremental event detection framework that leverages DistilBERT and Graph Neural Networks (GNNs). By integrating DistilBERT's real-time contextual understanding with GNNs' ability to capture evolving relationships in social media networks, our framework aims to detect and track events as they emerge and evolve. We assess the effectiveness of our approach through comparative analysis against various state-of-the-art event detection methods on a real-world Twitter dataset. Our experimental result demonstrates that DistilBERT-GNN outperforms the baselines with NMI, AMI, and ARI metrics by 0.72, 0.53, and 0.24, respectively.
Association between different insulin resistance surrogates and all-cause mortality in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Zhao Guowen , Shang Sijia , Tian Na , Zhan Xiaojiang , Peng Fenfen , Wang Xiaoyang , Wen Yueqiang , Xu Qingdong , Feng Xiaoran , Tang Xingming , Wu Xianfeng , Zhou Qian , Yang Yuanyuan , Zhang Xing , Su Ning
Published: April 2024

Background: The insulin resistance (IR) is related with poor outcomes in peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. This study aimed to explore the association between surrogate IR indexes and all-cause mortality in PD patients.
Methods: 1736 PD patients were enrolled from March 2010 to December 2021 in multiple PD centers. Cox proportional hazards models and restricted cubic splines (RCS) regression were constructed to assess the relationship between TyG index, TyG-BMI index, TG/HDL-C ratio and all-cause mortality. All three IR indexes were integrated into same model to access the predictive stability. Furthermore, forest plot was draw to display the result of subgroup analysis in PD patients.
Results: 378 mortality events were recorded during a median follow-up time of 2098 days. The RCS regression showed a linear association between the TyG index and TyG-BMI index and all-cause mortality (P for non-linearity 0.566, 0.716 respectively), while a non-linear association between TG/HDL-C ratio and all-cause mortality (P for non-linearity 0.022). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards analyses indicated higher levels of TyG index, TyG-BMI index and TG/HDL-C ratio were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality in PD patients (HR 1.587, 95%CI 1.264-1.993; HR 1.449, 95%CI 1.085-1.934; HR 1.424, 95%CI 1.104-1.838, respectively). By integrating three IR indexes into the same model, the TyG index showed the highest predictive stability among them. Forest plot of TyG index showed there were no significant interactions in the subgroups.
Conclusion: The TyG index, TyG-BMI index, and TG/HDL-C ratio were significantly associated with all-cause mortality in PD patients, and the TyG index may be the most stable surrogate marker for IR in PD patients among them, and IR was associated with all-cause mortality in PD patients.
Sustainability of online communities of open-source projects
Authors: Perekhodko Eugenia , Welles Brooke F.
Published: April 2024

Open source software projects rely on groups of volunteer contributors who collaborate to produce code and documentation. Their work is often coordinated and supported by online communities, which are essential to sustain open source projects. In this paper we analyze the structure of the underlying social networks of online communities of practice. We analyze the emergent structure of five online communities associated with highly successful open source projects in order to identify the structural correlates of successful projects, as well as moments of vulnerability in community structure that could be monitored and proactively addressed. Specifically, we consider the structure of the core of five established online open source communities. Our findings demonstrate that the core of the largest strongly connected component these communities is the most sustainable part, and the rest of the largest strongly connected component is more vulnerable to the loss of contributors and collaborators. Moreover, we analyze the evolution of the community structure over time and demonstrate that the period just prior to the emergence of the largest 2 edge connected component inside the core of the communities is the most vulnerable point in the life cycle of online open source communities.
PACS: 0000, 1111
2000 MSC: 0000, 1111
Prevalence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in the Attecoube Lagune Neighborhood of Abidjan (Cote D'ivoire)
Authors: KONAN Loukou Leandre , ESSIS MARIE LAURE , WOGNIN Affou Séraphin , YAPO Ossey Bernard , TIEMBRE Issaka
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a severe, long-term, life-threatening respiratory illness. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of COPD and the factors associated with its prevention in the population of the Attecoube Lagune neighborhood of Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. Material and methods: A descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study lasting 2 months was carried out in the Attecoube Lagune neighborhood of Abidjan in 2022. A questionnaire was used to collect information on sociodemographic, clinical and environmental characteristics. Baseline spirometry and a beta mimetic test were performed in all subjects surveyed to explore their respiratory function. Data analysis was performed using stata15.1 software. Results: A total of 170 residents were surveyed, including 103 women and 67 men, with a sex ratio (M/F) of 0.65. Mean age was 35.92 ± 15.28 years. The most frequent respiratory symptoms were chest tightness (29.41%), dyspnoea (28.82%) and cough (22.35%). The prevalence of COPD was 5.29% among Attecoube Lagune neighborhood residents. Tobacco smoke was strongly associated with COPD [OR = 7, 06; IC95%: 1.00–10.60; P < 0.05]. Conclusion: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) was strongly associated with tobacco smoke in Attecoube Lagune neighborhood. Awareness-raising campaigns on the dangers of tobacco and health promotion are needed in this commune.
Early Symptoms and Diagnostic Parameters in Pediatric Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Implications for Subsequent Bone Disorders
Authors: Olczyk Mariusz , Frankowska Agnieszka , Tkaczyk Marcin , Socha-Banasiak Anna , Czkwianianc Elżbieta
Published: April 2024

Background: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is associated with multiple factors that influence bone metabolism. This study aimed to compare the clinical manifestations and diagnostic parameters of patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC) at the time of diagnosis, as well as to assess their relationship with subsequent bone disorders.
Methods: Blood tests (including calcium-phosphate metabolism) and fecal tests (including calprotectin) were performed in eighty children recently diagnosed with IBD. Additionally, the bone densitometry results were evaluated in 25 of them.
Results: Diarrhea (p=0.02) and bloody stools (p<0.001) were more frequent in patients with UC, whereas fever was more common in patients with CD (p=0.003). Laboratory tests revealed anemia in 57.5% (46/80) and thrombocytosis in 36.3% (29/80). Higher calprotectin levels in the feces were found in girls at the time of diagnosis (p = 0.02). Osteopenia was detected in almost half of the patients, and 1/5 met the criteria for osteoporosis. Low calcium levels at diagnosis were correlated with subsequent bone disorders (p = 0.005). Insufficient level of vitamin D were detected in 77.8% (56/80).
Conclusions: Early disease detection and appropriate monitoring of pediatric IBD patients may decrease the risk of serious consequences, including osteoporosis.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation bridging for chemotherapy in obstructing mediastinal mass after cardiopulmonary arrest Reading head: ECMO bridging for chemotherapy
Authors: Wilkinson Daniel , Yeung Enoch , Samy Sanjay , Nakai Chikashi
Published: April 2024

Background: In a sedated patient, airway compression by a large mediastinal mass can cause acute fatal cardiopulmonary arrest. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been investigated to protect the airway and provided cardiopulmonary stability. However, the use of ECMO in the management of mediastinal masses is poorly documented
Case presentation: 32-year-old female presented with acute onset of left arm swelling and subacute onset of dry cough. Further investigation showed a deep venous thrombosis in left upper extremity as well as a large mediastinal mass. She underwent mediastinoscopy with biopsy of the mass which was complicated by cardiopulmonary arrest secondary to airway obstruction by the mediastinal mass. Venoarterial ECMO was initiated, while concurrently treating with a chemotherapy. The mediastinal mass responded to the chemotherapy and reduced in size during 2 days of ECMO support. She was extubated successfully and decannulated after 2 days of ECMO and discharged later.
Conclusions: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation can serve as a viable strategy to facilitate cardiopulmonary support while concurrently treating the tumor with chemotherapy, ultimately allowing for the recovery of cardiopulmonary function, and achieving satisfactory outcomes.
Magnesium-Substituted Hydroxyapatite /Spider Silk fibroin /N-Carboxymethyl Chitosan Based Microsphere: A potential template for bone regeneration
Authors: Swain Subhasmita , Mishra Saswati , Das Sunita , Rautray Tapash Ranjan
Published: April 2024

Ageing, sedentary lifestyle and bone trauma have contributed to a sequel of clinical manifestation and risk factors associated with bone health. However, there are constant efforts made by researchers on both invasive and non-invasive strategies for a revival of bone architecture. In recent years, biomaterials, primarily biocomposites, have improved the facet of bone repair and regeneration. In the present work, a biocomposite of spider silk fibroin (SSF), N-caboxymethyl chitosan (N-CMCh) and magnesium (Mg2+) incorporated hydroxyapatite (HA), i.e. SSF/N-CMCh/Mg-HA was prepared to fabricate microspheres for bone regenerative applications. Initially, synthetic stoichiometric HA doped with Mg was synthesized by wet chemical method. The crystallographic property of Mg2+ incorporation in HA was investigated by XRD analysis. SEM-EDX and FTIR confirmed even distribution of the element and stoichiometric ratio of Ca:P along with Mg2+ in the biocomposite. A comparative analysis of the polarized SSF/N-CMCh/Mg-HA and SSF/N-CMCh was carried out to analyse the porosity and swelling of the fabricated microspheres. In vitro evaluation confirms the cellular metabolic viability of the microspheres. Further, Mg-HA-incorporated microspheres showed better protein absorption with enhanced ALP activity. Improved biocompatibility of the microspheres could be confirmed with high expression of osteogenic gene markers such as ALP, OCN, RUNX2, and COL-1. The studies confirmed that the fabricated SSF/N-CMCh/Mg-HA microspheres could be used as a potential template for bone regeneration.
Investigation of B(GT) Strengths distribution for some p-shell Nuclei
Authors: Majeed Fouad A. , Obaid Sarah M.
Published: April 2024

The strengths of Gamow-Teller transitions $B$(GT) and their summed values $\sum B$(GT) have been investigated for the transitions $^{9}$Li$\rightarrow$$^{9}$Be, $^{9}$Be$\rightarrow$$^{9}$B, and $^{9}$C$\rightarrow$$^{9}$B in the framework of the shell model.~The calculations were conducted in the standard P and extended PSD model spaces with core taken at $^{4}$He with effective interactions $ckpot$ for P model space and $psdmk$ and $psdmwk$ for PSD model space.~We did not impose any restrictions in our calculations for both model spaces.~The calculations of $B$(GT) for the studied nuclei and their summed values $\sum B$(GT) were compared with the observed data and shows reasonable agreement.~We have obtained a qualitative agreement for the individual transformations, and the observed and measured total transformation strengths are quite similar.
Sustainable Management of Agro Industrial Waste as Potential Adsorbent for Wastewater Treatment: Kinetic, Thermodynamic and Equilibrium Study
Authors: Ramteke Pradeep K. , Rathod Ajit P. , Kodape S. M. , Deshmukh A. Waheed
Published: April 2024

In the current work, the malachite green (MG) dye was removed from synthetic wastewater by employing a sustainable adsorbent Cajanus cajan (Tur Dal Husk) as an adsorbent. The activated carbon based on Tur Dal Husk (TDH) was prepared and analyzed by analytical techniques methods like the analyzes surface area involving Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) analysis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The impacts of multiple causes, specifically pH, adsorbent quantity, contact duration, and the concentration of dye was investigated about the elimination of MG dye. The equilibrium isotherms underwent analysis through the Freundlich and Langmuir models. The highest ability to absorb was obtained as 24.81 mg/g, 30.95 mg/g, and 36.49amg/g at 303K, 313K, and 323K respectively. The separation factor value confirmed that the adsorption was beneficial at the adsorption conditions. The kinetics exhibited behavior consistent with pseudo-second-order kinetics. The thermal variables, involving entropy (ΔS), Gibbs free energy (ΔG), and enthalpy (ΔH), revealed that adsorption is a process that occurs naturally and absorbs heat during the process.
Spatial Distribution of Climate Change Variables (Rainfall and Temperature): Case Study of Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Okoduwa Akus Kingsley , Amaechi Chika Floyd
Published: April 2024

Fluctuations in rainfall and Increased temperatures serve as indicators of Nigeria's climate change. Despite this, a comprehensive examination of climatic variables and their spatial distribution within Delta State remains lacking in existing literature. Previous studies on climate change predominantly rely on data from ground-based monitoring stations. However, these stations fail to cover all geopolitical zones within Delta State, posing significant challenges to climate monitoring research. To address this research gap, this study employs Climate Hazards Group InfraRed Precipitation with Station (CHIRPS) and ERA5_Land reanalysis datasets to analyze rainfall and temperature trends spanning from 1983–2023 in Delta State, Nigeria. The statistical significance of these trends was determined using the Mann-Kendall and Sen’s slope trend test. Additionally, ArcGIS 10.7 was used to map the region's spatial distribution of rainfall and temperature. The results show a decreasing trend in rainfall from 1983–2023. However, this decreasing trend was not statistically significant (p-value > 0.05). Spatially, rainfall has been decreasing in certain regions of Delta State. In the case of temperature, the result shows an increasing trend from 1983–2023. This increasing trend in temperature was statistically significant (p-value < 0.01). The spatial map shows that Oshimili North, Oshimili South, certain areas of Burutu, certain areas of Warri South West, and some parts of Warri North experienced the highest temperatures throughout the study period. The study's findings will be helpful to environmental managers, and policymakers in developing creative strategies to lessen the negative effects of climate change.
In search of the lost link: the fascinating platinum host rock of Chocó, Colombia
Authors: Salazar Gabriel , Salazar Susana , Ochoa Andrés , Bedoya Álvaro
Published: April 2024

In Colombia, after nearly 500 years of the quest for the platinum source rock, a remarkable discovery of a fossiliferous limestone with gold and platinum now resides under the watch of the Geological Survey's Museum in Medellín, registered as RS 2.2.1.1.3. Platinum group minerals, long sought after in Colombia's placer deposits since the 19th century, typically found in the form of nuggets, have received special attention due to the missing link that exists between authigenesis in mafic/ultramafic rocks to detrital alluvium associations. Consequently, this finding unveils an entirely new environment hosting platinum. In this article, we delve into the historical context and the heritage value of a sample boasting 300 g/t of platinum and 33 g/t of gold, embedded in a dolomitized biosparite. Various analyses, encompassing atomic absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, micropetrographic characterization, and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy-dispersive spectroscopy, were performed on the sample. The sample baffled experts due to its unassuming sedimentary rock appearance and the unusual circumstances of its arrival at the museum. Hence, it stands as one of those uncommon scientific curiosities with an unforeseen origin, accessible only through a stroke of chance and an unbiased perspective regarding its origin. Beyond its historical and geological significance, this specimen, safeguarded within the museum's collection, encourages education and awareness regarding geosites, advocating for the preservation of one of the planet's most biologically diverse regions, where platinum was first discovered.
Making und die Informatik
Authors: Dittert Nadine , Stilz Melanie
Published: April 2024

Making lässt Schüler:innen zu Erfinder:innen innen werden, lässt sie die digitale Welt mitgestalten und ermöglicht ihnen, diese durch aktives Handeln zu verstehen. Während oft ein ästhetisch ansprechendes Produkt entsteht, ist es vor allem der Prozess dorthin, der für das Lernen relevant ist. Making für den schulischen Kontext ist bisher eher durch einen klar definierten Prozess zu einem gezielten Produkt gekennzeichnet. Dies macht die Aktivität organisatorisch wie inhaltlich planbar und gibt Sicherheit. Maker-Bildung beschreibt darüber hinaus auch einen offenen Prozess, in dem Lernwege und Ergebnisse nicht vordefiniert sind und in dem Fehler, Um- und Weiterdenken erlaubt sind. Dafür braucht es Räume und Kompetenzen, die derartiges Arbeiten zulassen und davon profitieren. Die Informatik als problemlösende Disziplin kann Maker-Bildung im Unterricht umsetzen. Damit lässt sich einerseits der Prozess der Informatik durch die Arbeit an einem Projekt verdeutlichen, andererseits werden informatische Kompetenzen benötigt, um Produkte zu entwickeln, die über einfache Informatiksysteme hinausgehen. Im Artikel zeigen wir, warum es hier die Informatik braucht und warum Maker-Bildung im Informatikunterricht umgesetzt werden sollte.
Quantum kinetic theory and dissipative spin hydrodynamics
Authors:   , Wagner David
Published: April 2024

This thesis provides a detailed derivation of dissipative spin hydrodynamics from quantum field theory for systems composed of spin-0, spin-1/2, or spin-1 particles. The Wigner function formalism is introduced for quantum fields in the respective representations of the Poincaré group, and the conserved currents, i.e., the energy-momentum tensor and the total angular momentum tensor, in various so-called pseudogauges are derived. An expansion around the semiclassical limit in powers of the Planck constant is performed. Subsequently, kinetic equations are obtained for binary elastic scattering, using both the de Groot-van Leeuwen-van Weert and Kadanoff-Baym method, with the latter retaining the effect of quantum statistics. The resulting collision term features both local and nonlocal contributions, with the latter providing a relaxation mechanism for the spin degrees of freedom of the quasiparticles. The local-equilibrium distribution function is derived from the requirement that the local part of the collision term vanishes. From quantum kinetic theory, dissipative spin hydrodynamics is then constructed via the method of moments, extended to particles with spin. The system of moment equations is closed via the Inverse-Reynolds Dominance (IReD) approach, resulting in a set of equations of motion describing the evolution of both ideal and dissipative degrees of freedom. The application to polarization phenomena relevant to heavy-ion collisions is discussed.
Dialectics in the Realm of Mars: Historical Typologies of Wars of A.E. Snesarev and E.A. Razin
Authors: Рахманов А.Б.
Published: April 2024

Научное исследование войны как социального явления требует применения к ней диалектической методологии, которая обусловливает рассмотрение исторического развития войны. В первую очередь это предполагает выделение исторических типов войн. Задача изучения исторической типологии войн была впервые поставлена и на-чала решаться после Первой мировой войны. В статье рассматриваются исторические типологии войн, разработанные русским военным теоретиком А.Е. Снесаревым и советским военным историком Е.А. Разиным. Эти два варианта исторической типо-логии войн опирались на разные философские подходы и обладали как сильными, так и слабыми сторонами.

The scientific study of war as a social phenomenon requires the application to it of dialectical methodology, which involves consideration of the historical development of war. First and foremost, this involves distinguishing the historical types of warfare. The task of studying the historical typology of wars was first posed and began to be addressed after World War I. This article examines the historical typologies of warfare developed by the Russian military theorist A.E. Snesarev and the Soviet military historian E.A. Razin. These two versions of the historical typology of wars were based on different philosophical approaches and had both strengths and weaknesses.