bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The PPP2R1A cancer hotspot mutant p.R183W increases clofarabine resistance in uterine serous carcinoma cells by a gain-of-function mechanism
Authors: Remmerie Michiel , Dok Rüveyda , Wang Zhigang , Omella Judit Domènech , Alen Sophie , Cokelaere Célie , Lenaerts Lisa , Dreesen Erwin , Nuyts Sandra , Derua Rita , Janssens Veerle
Published: April 2024

Purpose: Uterine serous carcinoma (USC) is generally associated with poor prognosis due to a high recurrence rate and frequent treatment resistance; hence, there is a need for improved therapeutic strategies. Molecular analysis of USC identified several molecular markers, useful to improve current treatments or identify new druggable targets. PPP2R1A, encoding the Aα subunit of the tumor suppressive Ser/Thr phosphatase PP2A, is mutated in up to 40% of USC. Here, we investigated the effect of the p.R183W PPP2R1A hotspot variant on treatment response to the nucleoside analogue clofarabine.
Methods & Results: USC cells stably expressing p.R183W Aα showed increased resistance to clofarabine treatment in vitro and in vivo, corroborated by decreased clofarabine-induced apoptosis, G1 phase arrest, DNA-damage (γH2AX) and activation of ATM and Chk1/2 kinases. Phenotypic rescue by pharmacologic PP2A inhibition or dicer-substrate siRNA (dsiRNA)-mediated B56δ subunit knockdown supported a gain-of-function mechanism of Aα p.R183W, promoting dephosphorylation and inactivation of deoxycytidine kinase (dCK), the cellular enzyme responsible for the conversion of clofarabine into its bioactive form. Therapeutic assessment of related nucleoside analogues (gemcitabine, cladribine) revealed similar effects, but in a cell line-dependent manner. Expression of two other PPP2R1A USC mutants (p.P179R or p.S256F) did not affect clofarabine response in our cell models, arguing for mutant-specific effects on treatment outcome as well.
Conclusions: While our results call for PPP2R1A mutant and context-dependent effects upon clofarabine/nucleoside analogue monotherapy, combining clofarabine with a pharmacologic PP2A inhibitor proved synergistically in all tested conditions, highlighting a new generally applicable strategy to improve treatment outcome in USC.
Physics-Aware Tuning of Unscented Kalman Filter:Statistical Framework for Solving Inverse Problems Involving Nonlinear Dynamical Systems and Missing Data
Authors: Ghorbani Esmaeil , Dollon Quentin , Gosselin Frederick P.
Published: April 2024

The performance of the Unscented Kalman Filter (UKF) strongly depends on the proper choice of measurement and process uncertainty matrices, as well as on the scaling parameter of the unscented transform. To avoid cumbersome trial-and-error manual settings in finding the optimal hyperparameters, we introduce a hands-off meta-optimization framework, which incorporates a nonlinear mesh adaptive direct search optimization algorithm in an offline outer loop, paired with a physics-aware loss function. The novelty of this approach is twofold. First, a physics-aware loss function is used to optimize the UKF hyperparameters. It minimizes the physical discrepancy induced by the data-driven correction of the prior states during filtering. Notably, sensor data are not directly incorporated into the calculation of the loss function, which expedites the tuning of the filter in weakly informative data scenarios, especially when the underlying physics is well understood. Second, UKF relaxation is embedded in the optimization to make the measurement and process noise covariance matrices adaptive, which greatly reduces the dimension of the optimization space while remaining very general with respect to the structure of the matrices. We demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework, as the cornerstone of a future digital twin technology combining data- and physics-based models, through various classical problems in solid mechanics, rotating machinery, civil engineering, and fluid-solid interaction.
Enhanced Medical Image Analysis: Leveraging 3D Visualization and VR-AR Technology
Authors: Prabha Navaneeth , Prasad Navya , Ziyad Naeema , Abraham Jisha P , T Pristy Paul , Paul Rini T
Published: April 2024

Modern healthcare depends heavily on medical imaging, but traditional 2D images frequently lack depth and detail. This paper introduces a novel approach, that turns 2D medical images, such as X-rays, MRIs, and CT scans, into immersive three-dimensional visualizations by utilizing virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) technology. The process consists of four steps: acquiring DICOM medical data, converting the data into 3D models, applying the rendering modes and slicing planes, and deploying the data in VR/AR environments. Preprocessing methods evaluate and improve the quality of medical image data, which is essential for precise analysis and is guided by mathematical formulas. Advanced techniques like alpha shapes and Delaunay triangulation are used to transform 2D medical images into realistic 3D models. Mesh fidelity and clarity are optimized by surface reconstruction techniques, which are motivated by mathematical representations. The surface mesh is refined using Laplacian smoothing and surface subdivision algorithms, which guarantee geometric accuracy and visual quality. Furthermore, Hausdorff distance is used to evaluate the generated 3D models' accuracy, guaranteeing fidelity and dependability in medical visualization. This technology offers the potential to improve surgical planning accuracy, streamline medical education, and foster deeper understanding by facilitating interactive exploration of intricate anatomical structures.
Exploring the experiences of COVID-19 survivors with a history of admission to the respiratory intensive care unit (RICU): A phenomenological study in Iran
Authors: Mehni Esmaeil Barkhori , Rafati Foozieh , Abbasi Mohsen , Rafati Shideh , Ahmadidarrehsima Sudabeh
Published: April 2024

COVID-19 is still spreading around the world. To this end, the present study sought to explore the experiences of COVID-19 survivors with a history of admission to ICUs in southern Iran. This study was conducted using descriptive phenomenology on twelve COVID-19 survivors with a history of admission to the ICU. The patients were selected using purposive sampling. The data were collected through face-to-face semistructured interviews with the patients. The collected data were analyzed using the seven steps of Colaizzi analysis. Data analysis revealed 3 main themes: better resources and facilities, unpleasant physical and psychological experiences, and pain relievers. COVID-19 survivors who were admitted to the RICU reported that they had many positive and negative experiences. Thus, health officials, experts, nurses, and physicians need to pay special attention to the problems faced by COVID-19 patients admitted to ICUs.
Impact of Tent Shade on Heat Exposures and Simulated Heat Strain for People Experiencing Homelessness
Authors: Karanja Joseph , Vanos Jennifer , Joshi Ankit , Penner Scott , Echavvaria Gisel Guzman , Connor Dylan S. , Rycaczewski Konrad
Published: April 2024

Concurrent increases in homelessness and heat intensity, duration, and frequency translate to an urban heat risk trap for the unsheltered population. Homelessness is both a driver and consequence of poor health, co-creating distinct geographies with various risk factors that exacerbate heat vulnerability. We tested the efficacy of different tent shadings over identical tents often observed in the Phoenix area (white bedsheet, mylar, tarp, and aluminum foil) and compared them to a control tent (uncovered) and ambient conditions. We monitored all meteorological variables at all six locations, notably Mean Radiant Temperature (MRT). The in-tent microclimate variability was applied to complete statistical and physiological modeling including the use of behavioral or recreational drugs on heat strain. Findings indicate that tent shadings resulted in significantly lower in-tent MRT during the day (p < 0.05), but exacerbated in-tent thermal risk during the night compared to the control tent and ambient conditions. Furthermore, we found evidence that the temperature metric matters, and using only either MRT or air temperature (Tair) to assess “heat” could lead to inconsistent conclusions about in-tent microclimate. Interactions between shade types and time significantly amplified in-tent thermal risk. Physiological modeling indicates a higher risk of heat strain (core temperature beyond 40˚C) for those taking certain drugs. Decision makers should promote testing different heat intervening strategies toward realizing effective means of protecting human life and preventing heat illnesses. This study illuminates the need for an interdisciplinary approach to studying tents as shelters that considers the total heat load with heat strain modeling.
Reduced-order dynamics of coupled self-induced stochastic resonance quasiperiodic oscillators driven by varying noise intensities
Authors: Zhu Jinjie , Zhao Feng , Liu Xianbin
Published: April 2024

Noise can induce nontrivial behaviors in systems with multiple timescales. The dynamical reduction of fast-slow systems remains a challenging and intriguing problem. Self-induced stochastic resonance is a noise-induced coherent phenomenon that noise is introduced to the fast dynamics. By applying the embedding phase reduction approach, the synchronization behaviors of two non-identically coupled self-induced stochastic resonance oscillators are investigated. The first passage time distribution on the slow manifolds, which is crucial in the reduced phase equation, is well approximated by the Weibull distribution and is continuously estimated regarding the noise intensity by the polynomial interpolation. The effectiveness of the reduced phase equation is validated by the Monte Carlo simulations. The methods and results may motivate data-based investigations on other multiple timescale systems and experimental findings.
Explaining Midwives’ Experiences in Adjusting to the Role of Healthcare Providers in Health Transformation Plan in Iran: A Qualitative Study
Authors: moradali monireh rezaee , hajian sepideh , Majd Hamid Alavi , Rahbar Mohammadreza , Entezarmahdi Rasool
Published: April 2024

Background Due to their exhaustive tasks and multiple delegated responsibilities, midwives face numerous intricacies as healthcare providers after the implementation of the health transformation plan. This role shift compels them to fulfill their responsibilities in their new positions despite its incompatibility with the capacities of the academic field and the nature of the profession. The present study explains midwives’ experiences in adjusting to the role of healthcare providers in the health transformation plan in Iran. Methods This qualitative study collected data with open-ended questions In-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 midwives working in the healthcare centers of Urmia in West Azerbaijan and analyzed them using Zhang and Wildemuth’s 8-step conventional content analysis approach run in the MAXQDA software. Results Data analysis led to the emergence of two themes, seven main categories, and 19 subcategories. The first theme, namely ‘efficient adjustment’, encompassed two main categories: ‘providing high-quality services’ and ‘inner satisfaction’, and the second theme, i.e., ‘inefficient adjustment’, was explained by five main categories, including ‘low-quality services’, ‘reduced utilization’, ‘emotional fatigue’, ‘systemic bullying’, and ‘changes in social expectations’. Conclusion It seems that being satisfied with providing services to clients and accountability are the paramount factors associated with healthcare midwives’ adjustment, and this job satisfaction depends on the specialty of delegated responsibilities, correction of the rules in this plan, and preservation of midwives’ dignity and career grace.
Unlocking Forex Market Trends: Advanced Predictive Modeling with Tree Ensembles
Authors: Thao Nguyen Ngoc , Nguyen Hoa-Cuc. , Mach Bich-Ngoc. , Thuan Do Duc , Quynh Trinh Thi Nhu , Huong Tran Thu , Chi Duong Thi Kim , Nguyen Thanh Q.
Published: April 2024

In this study, the author constructed a draft model to assess and predict the fluctuations of the foreign exchange (Forex) market using the Tree Ensembles ensemble learning method, combining three main models: Random Forest, Gradient Boosting Machines (GBM), and XGBoost. The author focused on applying predictive indicators of Forex trading to develop techniques to help investors detect growth trends through market buy and sell prices. As a result, the model provided accurate predictions of market trends, ensuring stability and high accuracy, surpassing other machine learning methods currently being applied. Particularly, the forecasting method from the model demonstrated the ability to handle various types of data flexibly, including numerical and text data, without requiring excessive preprocessing. This opens the door for applying the model to real-life situations where data is often diverse and complex. In summary, this study not only provides an effective method for predicting Forex market fluctuations but also suggests significant potential for the development of assessment and prediction models in the currency field in the future.
Utilizing Graph Theory for Ecological Planning: Enhancing Connectivity of Urban Green Spaces in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Rajput pradeep kumar
Published: April 2024

Graph theory and network analysis are efficient to explore landscape connectivity. Graph theory approach using in urban planning to facilities the municipal service in the urban landscape. The municipal service is an important and proper functional movement in the urban landscape. In this paper, the use of graph-theoretic approaches is operational within the urban landscape assessment, planning, and design. Urban landscape for proper planning and design of urban land without disturbance of an ecosystem. The connectivity is important to exchange their genetic material for the proper functioning of the ecosystem in the urban landscape. In particular, the network model uses to evaluate the contribution of landscape elements to uphold the connectivity. The importance of spatially and geographically area representation the network in urban & regional planning and design is stressed. The study moves the better connectivity of urban green space for the functional ecosystem. Graph theory approach identifies the Intra connectivity(IC), Betweeness centrality (BC), connector, a number of links (NL), Harry Index (HI), landscape coincide Probability (LCP), and integral index connectivity (IIC) in the urban landscape for systematic planning and order to increase the efficiency of monitoring and sustainable urban development. Using a graph theory approach for patch connectivity with integral index connectivity (IIC). Here threshold distance for connectivity is 2m, 20m, 44m, and 100m. Connectivity of urban green space for dispersal of species for one patch to the rest of other patches slightly increases and identifies the prioritize patches for ecological improvement. This paper Examine the protecting ecosystem and sustainable urban development and planning in the future prospectus
Failed Ahmed Glaucoma Valves: Trabeculectomy versus Repeat Shunt Surgery
Authors: Einollahi Neda , Doozandeh Azadeh , Sharifipour Farideh , Hassanpour Kiana , Rezaei Javad , Radmehr Hamed , Yazdani Shahin
Published: April 2024

Introduction: To investigate the outcomes of trabeculectomy (TRAB) versus repeat Ahmed glaucoma valve (re-AGV) implantation in eyes with Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) failure.
Methods: This quasi-experimental study reports patients with AGV failure requiring additional surgical intervention between 2018 and 2022. Patients in the TRAB group underwent a fornix-based procedure with mitomycin C 0.01% injection (0.1 mL). Eyes in the re-AGV group underwent repeat shunt surgery. The choice of the procedure was based on surgeon’s discretion. The primary outcome measure was surgical success rates based on various intraocular pressure (IOP) targets and percentages of reduction from baseline: IOP ≤ 21 mmHg and 20% reduction (conventional criteria), IOP ≤ 18 and 20% reduction (criterion A), IOP ≤ 15 and 25% reduction (criterion B), and IOP ≤ 12 and 30% reduction (criterion C).
Results: Forty-eight eyes of 48 patients are reported herein, consisting of 22 eyes of 22 patients undergoing TRAB and 26 eyes of 26 subjects undergoing re-AGV. No significant difference was observed between the study groups in terms of initial diagnoses, baseline IOP or the number of prior surgeries. The cumulative probability of survival at one year was significantly higher in the trabeculectomy group using the three stricter success definitions. In both study groups, IOP was significantly reduced from baseline at all postoperative visits, and was significantly lower in the TRAB group at all time points beyond one month. At 12 months, 5% of TRAB versus 48% of re-AGV eyes required glaucoma medications (P<0.001). The rate of complications was comparable between the study groups (P=0.76) but there was a trend toward a greater need for repeat surgery in the re-AGV group (4 eyes versus nil, P=0.07).
Conclusions: Trabeculectomy can be considered a safe and effective surgical option in eyes with failed AGV leading to significantly lower IOP levels and more favorable success rates than re-AGV in selected patients.
Elucidating the Role of Prickly Pear Fruits (Opuntia littoralis) in Mitigation of Cadmium Toxicity in Oreochromis niloticus: Impacts on Haemato-Biochemical and Immunological Responses
Authors: Abbas Mahmoud Mahrous M. , Amer Mohamed A. , malki Jamila S. Al , Mohammadein Amaal , Metwally Metwally G. , Waheed Rania M. , Elraey Said M. A. , Radwan Mahmoud
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the study was to ascertain the preventative value of dietary supplements with fruits of the prickly pear on the haemato-biochemical and immunological responses of O. niloticus exposed to subacute waterborne cadmium toxicity. Four diets supplemented with different proportions of fruits of 0% (control, OLFE-0% group), 0.5% (OLFE-0.5% group), 1% (OLFE-1% group), and 2% (OLFE-2% group) were administered to tilapia fingerlings for sixty days (pre-cadmium). After the feeding session, the tilapia treatments were subjected to waterborne cadmium toxicity for four days (post-cadmium). Blood samples were captured pre- and post-cadmium exposure to assess the haemato-biochemical and immunological alternations. According to the current findings, nutritional meals fortified with OLFE can enhance tilapia fish's growth performance and digestive enzymes. Nile tilapia fed on OLFE-fortified diets showed a significant reduction in cortisol, alanine transaminase (ALAT), aspartate transaminase (ASAT), glucose, protein, and malondialdehyde (MDA) compared to the control with a basal diet without OLFE (P < 0.05). Additionally, it significantly improves the activities of complement C3, lysozyme, catalase (CAT), total immunoglobulin, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). Significant increases in cortisol, leukocytes, glucose, CAT, ALAT, GPX, ASAT, and SOD were observed following exposure to waterborne cadmium. At the same time, there were decreases in erythrocytes, blood indices, hemoglobin, complement C3, packed cell volume, lysozyme, total immunoglobulin, and malondialdehyde (MDA) values. In brief, these findings suggest that supplementing prickly pear fruits to tilapia diets, especially at a level of 2%, can enhance immunological and antioxidant properties and effectively mitigate the harmful effects of Cd exposure in food safety and aquaculture.
Modification of Aspen Wood Ethanol Lignin via Azo Coupling; Promising Polymers from Renewable Plant Biomass
Authors: Golubkov Viktor A. , Borovkova Valentina S. , Lutoshkin Maxim A. , Zos’ko Nikolay A. , Vasilieva Natalya Yu. , Malyar Yuriy N.
Published: April 2024

Plant biomass, in particular forestry wastes, is and promising renewable feedstock for deep chemical processing. Organosolv methods allow the use of underutilized lignin. The synthesis of modified polymers by azo coupling with the use of aspen (Populus tremula) ethanol lignin and its sulfated modification is studied. The success of the synthesis has been proven and the features of the structure and properties of the synthesized samples were studied by the physicochemical techniques, including Fourier-transform infrared and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, gel permeation chromatography and thermogravimetric analysis. It is shown that the new azopolymers have the ability to photoisomerize, which opens up prospects for their high-tech applications. The modified lignins are proven to be bioactive antioxidants.
Agoraphobia With Panic Disorder in a Psychiatric Setting: A Case Report
Authors: Olose Emmanuel Omamurhomu , Busari Cecilia Oluwafunmilayo , Anake Godwin Akepu , Orovwigho Andrew , Ugoma Israel Obedjemurho
Published: April 2024

Background:
Agoraphobia diagnosis has largely remained unchanged, with its criteria based on persistent fear and avoidance of certain clusters of situations. The controversial diagnosis of Agoraphobia with or without a history of panic disorder has also been retained in classification systems; with the understanding that patients either generally have never fully met or meet the diagnostic criteria for panic attacks.
Case report:
A 49-year-old female presented to an outpatient Psychiatric clinic with a 12-year history of fear of enclosed spaces which was precipitated by an unstable relationship with a male partner who frequently assaulted, abused, and neglected her because she refused to terminate an unplanned pregnancy, she had for him. According to ICD-11, she was diagnosed with Agoraphobia with panic attacks, she was treated with Tab. Fluoxetine 20mg and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and in the past two years she improved significantly with appropriate consistency in her follow-up visits.
Conclusion:
This case report shines a beam of light on the very few reported cases of agoraphobia and its incapacitating course on those who suffer from it. In Nigeria, there is scanty literature on agoraphobia, for multiple reasons such as stigma, the embarrassing nature of the illness, and no disclosure of illness.
Contextual Factors in US-Mexico Border Health Professions Education
Authors: Harindranathan Priya , Roberts Bill , Manohar Nivethitha , Fleming Kelli
Published: April 2024

The aim of our study was to identify the significant factors that must be addressed in health professions education to prepare students for contextually responsive practice. This phenomenological study used the framework of structural competence to explore the contextual factors that must be addressed in health professions education. We conducted in-depth semi structured interviews with 18 participants, five teaching faculty, nine who served in leadership roles in higher education, and 4 community practitioners. The participants identified contextual factors that healthcare students need to know to be contextually responsive providers. Results show that healthcare students must be knowledgeable of cultural factors that limit cross-cultural communication and trust between providers and patients as well as the understand the structural and systemic factors that impact health such as income, employment, lack of insurance, lack of transportation, the role of SDOH, and the lack of healthcare access.
Reference Evapotranspiration Modeling for Northwestern Bangladesh Using Multiple Linear Regression
Authors: Prodhan Md Mehedi Hasan , Gupta Laboni , Sunny Akib Mohammad
Published: April 2024

The estimation of reference evapotranspiration (ETo) is crucial for determining crop evapotranspiration rates. The FAO-56 Penman-Monteith (FAO-56 PM) method is globally recognized for its consistent performance in ETo estimation. However, alternative methods remain popular due to their simplicity and minimal data requirements. This study investigated ETo modeling using multiple linear regression for three stations in northwestern Bangladesh: Rajshahi, Bogra, and Rangpur. Analyzing meteorological data from 1979 to 2022, the study explored relationships between ETo and various meteorological variables. Solar radiation consistently showed the strongest correlation (τ > 0.7) with ETo, followed by maximum temperature (τ > 0.65), while sunshine hour and relative humidity displayed weaker correlations (τ < 0.1) at every station. Three regression models were developed, all with r2 values > 0.93 and RMSE < 0.07. Model 3, including average temperature and relative humidity alongside solar radiation and wind speed, outperformed others (r2 > 0.97 and RMSE < 0.025). The findings have significant implications for agricultural planning, water resource management, and climate change adaptation in the region. Accurate ETo predictions enable stakeholders to optimize irrigation scheduling, improve crop yield forecasts, and formulate resilient agricultural policies.
Irisin promotes intestinal epithelial cell proliferation via Wnt/β-Catenin and focal adhesion kinase signaling pathways
Authors: Gaowa Arong , Leangpanich Supasuta , Jeong Eun , Kawamoto Eiji , shimaoka Motomu
Published: April 2024

The regeneration of epithelia is crucial for maintaining intestinal homeostasis. Irisin is exercise-induced hormone that was originally found to be secreted by skeletal muscles and which regulates energy metabolism. Recent studies have revealed that irisin protects against gut inflammation. However, the direct effects of irisin on intestinal epithelial cell remains to be elucidated. In this study, mouse intestinal organoids were used to assess the effects of irisin on the proliferation of intestinal epithelial cells. The size and budding morphologies of organoids were studied by confocal microscopy. Gene expression levels were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR and Western blotting. The cell surface expressions of integrins were determined by immunofluorescent cytometry. Irisin markedly stimulated the growth of intestinal organoids, thereby increasing the surface areas and budding phenotypes of the organoids. Interestingly, irisin significantly increased the expression of both β-catenin and the transcriptional targets of Wnt signaling Lgr5 and Cyclin D1. Furthermore, irisin induced the activation of focal adhesion kinase (FAK) signaling, whereas a FAK inhibitor suppressed the cell proliferation. Taken together, irisin promotes epithelial cell proliferation via Wnt/β-Catenin and FAK signaling pathways in intestinal organoids, suggesting that irisin may be a promising therapeutic for intestinal epithelial regeneration.
Effectiveness of pain care intervention combined with traditional Chinese medicine care in the perioperative care of patients with urinary stones
Authors: Wang Rui , Lu Changxia , Zhang Jianping , Yang Yaling , Fan Linlin , Wang Bo
Published: April 2024

Objective
Urinary stones are a common disease whose prevalence is increasing worldwide. The study investigated the effectiveness of pain care intervention combined with traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) care in the perioperative care of patients with urinary stones.
Methods
A total of 79 patients with urinary stones were selected and divided into 2 groups. Both groups underwent minimally invasive urinary stone surgery. The control group was provided with conventional care during the perioperative period of urinary stone surgery, while the observation group was provided with pain care intervention combined with TCM care. Pain and urinary function recovery before and after postoperative care intervention, and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI), self-rating anxiety scale (SAS), and self-rating depression scale (SDS) scores before and after care intervention in the two groups were compared. First anal discharge time, catheter retention time, first out of bed activity time, the total number of hospital days, and complications were observed in both groups after surgery, and the satisfaction scores of patients in both groups with the perioperative care were recorded.
Results
Compared with before the postoperative intervention, in patients of the control and observation groups, the VAS score and residual urine volume were reduced while the maximum urine flow was increased after the intervention. The VAS scores and residual urine volume of patients in the observation group were lower, and the maximum urine flow was higher than those in the control group. Compared with before the intervention, the PSQI, SAS, and SDS scores of patients in both groups were lower after the intervention, and the PSQI, SAS and SDS scores of the observation group were lower than those of the control group. Compared with the control group, the observation group showed lower first anal discharge time, catheter retention time, first out of bed activity time, the total number of hospital days, and the incidence of complications after surgery, and the patients were more satisfied with the care.
Conclusion
Pain care intervention combined with TCM care is beneficial in reducing postoperative pain in patients undergoing urinary stone surgery, speeding up the recovery of urinary function, improving sleep quality, anxiety, and depression, and reducing the incidence of complications.
Comparative transcriptome analysis reveals differential expression of sex-related genes in androgenic glands and ovaries of Macrobrachium rosenbergii
Authors: Li Xuenan , Zhou Mengying , Xie Jinping , Dai Xilin
Published: April 2024

Macrobrachium rosenbergii is an economically important crustacean worldwide. Based on the important role of the androgenic gland (AG) in sex determination in crustaceans, this study comparatively analysed the transcriptomes of AG and ovary tissues using Illumina sequencing technology. A total of 91,810 unigenes were generated from the six libraries after splicing and assembly, and 28,516 (31.1%) were annotated by BLASTx comparison with Nr and other databases. A total of 20,793 differentially expressed genes were identified in both tissues including 105 potentially related to sex determination and sex differentiation, of which 12 were ovary-specific and five were AG-specific. In addition, 14,794 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and 289,882 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified. This study enriches the database of molecular genetic information available for M. rosenbergii, establishes a foundation for the analysis and application of molecular regulatory mechanisms of its reproductive traits, and advances the study of sex determination and sex differentiation in crustaceans. SSRs and SNPs mined from the transcriptomes may provide markers for functional genome research and the development of new technologies for molecular breeding.
Patchiness of plankton communities at fronts explained by Lagrangian history of upwelled water parcels
Authors: Gangrade Shailja , Mangolte Inès
Published: April 2024

The transport of plankton by highly dynamic (sub)mesoscale currents–-often associated with fronts and eddies–-shapes the structure of plankton communities on the same time scales as biotic processes, such as growth and predation. The resulting bio-physical couplings generate heterogeneities in their finescale distributions (1-10 km), or "patchiness." Here, we test the hypothesis that cross-frontal plankton patchiness at a front found 200-250 km offshore in the California Current System was influenced by wind-driven upwelling conditions upstream of the front. We show that in situ Eulerian measurements (cross-frontal transects) can be interpreted in a Lagrangian framework by using satellite-derived current velocities to trace water parcels backward in time to their coastal origins. We find that the majority of the water parcels sampled at this front originated along the central California coast during different episodic wind-driven upwelling pulses and followed various trajectories before converging temporarily at the front. In response to nutrient injections at the coast, plankton communities transformed during their journeys from the coast to the sampling zone, with a succession of phytoplankton and zooplankton blooms. The cross-frontal sampling captured the convergence of these distinct water parcels at different points in their biological histories, which resulted in the observed spatial patchiness. Our results suggest that identifying the processes controlling frontal plankton communities requires understanding them in the context of their spatial and temporal histories, rather than as two-dimensional responses to local frontal processes. In particular, Lagrangian approaches should be more widely applied to understand critical ecological patterns in highly dynamic systems.
Continuous Speech Recognition System for Maithili
Authors: Kumar Shantanu , Fernandes Stephen , Choudhary Narayan
Published: April 2024

With the increasing role of speech technology in society, it has become indispensable for researchers to develop systems for low-resource languages that can cater to the needs of the common man residing in remote areas. This paper presents the inaugural attempt to develop an automatic continuous speech recognition system in Maithili, a low-resource language spoken by around 80 million people in India and Nepal. Leveraging a speech corpus from the Linguistic Data Consortium for Indian Languages containing 21412 speech utterances covering 300 speakers, the baseline speech recognition trained using the Kaldi toolkit employs the traditional Hidden Markov Model (HMM) in tandem with the Gaussian Mixture Model(GMM). Feature extraction utilizes Mel Filter Cepstral Coefficient (MFCC) and the ASR system is trained using GMM and Deep Neural Network (DNN) along with HMM. Language model training incorporates n-gram modeling. The system is trained on both Devanagari and Mithilakshar scripts, achieving the best Word Error Rates (WER) of 16.31% and 19.09% respectively.
Linear submanifolds and strata of k-differentials : invariants and applications
Authors:   , Schwab Johannes
Published: April 2024

We study the geometry of linear submanifolds and strata of k-differentials. Moreover, we give applications in the theory of tropical geometry and the theory of Higgs bundles.
PROFILE OF INDUCED LABOUR IN UNCOMPLICATED PREGNANCIES WITH UNFAVOURABLE MODIFIEDS BISHOP SCORE IN A TERTIARY CARE CENTRE
Authors: Chaudhary Shelly
Published: April 2024

Background: Induction of Labor is a non-spontaneous initiation of uterine contractions before onset of spontaneous labour that results in progressive dilatation with effacement of cervix and further descent of the presenting part of fetus, leading to safe vaginal delivery of the baby. ACOG has an extensive list of recommendations on delivery timing for various complicated and uncomplicated pregnancies. Pharmacological methods are most commonly deployed for induction in patients with poor bishopÂ’s score. The aim of this study is to determine maternal and perinatal outcome in induced labour in medically uncomplicated pregnancies. Methods: This is a hospital based retrospective observational study conducted for a duration of 11 months on 422 patients admitted in our labour room with unfavourable modified bishops score given induction of labour for various reasons after ruling out any contraindication for vaginal delivery. Results: In our study of 422 participants, majorities was term pregnancies (93.36%) and were induced by dinoprostone gel. Most common indication for IOL was postdated pregnancy (36.49%) and 67.3% patients underwent vaginal delivery. 27.7% of all vaginal deliveries required additional doses of dinoprostone. Most common indication for emergency caesarian section was FIOL (63.77%). All neonates were born alive and 32.46% neonates got admitted in NICU, most common indication being neonatal jaundice.42.42% cases developed complication of induction most common being MSL(17.54%). Conclusion: Induction of labor is beneficial and safe even in uncomplicated pregnancies. Although there is increased incidence of caesarian section, induction should be performed once risk of continuing pregnancy outweighs risk of termination.
Recent advances in treatment of microplastics in wastewater
Authors: Singh Surya
Published: April 2024

Microplastics are newly emerged contaminants having a ubiquitous presence in almost every kind of environmental matrix. Water is one of the most important reservoirs of microplastics, which also serves as an efficient medium for the transfer of these particles to various abiotic matrices and biotic lives. As per recent research, microplastics in water are an emerging public health issue that needs attention, and hence, suitable treatment methodologies are needed to reduce the contamination potential of water/wastewater. Although conventional wastewater treatment methods are able to remove microplastics to some extent, complete removal is challenging to date. Therefore, new techniques are being explored, among which the use of bioinspired molecules, metal organic frameworks, and biological materials is important. Further, the mechanical removal of microplastics through engineered micromotors and chemical degradation through various techniques have also been investigated. While some of these techniques are attractive and provide suitable solutions, their wide-scale applicability and cost-effectiveness are issues. Moreover, the techniques that can be suitably incorporated into conventional wastewater treatment systems are more preferred. Considering all these issues, this chapter will discuss the recent technological advances in the removal of microplastics from wastewater.
Function of nanomaterials in the treatment of emerging pollutants in wastewater
Authors: Dhull Paramjeet , Saini Neha , Aamir Mohd , Parveen Shama , Husain Samina
Published: April 2024

Freshwater accessibility has grown to be a serious global challenge. The naturally occurring freshwater reserves are contaminated by the increased demographic, industrialization, and climatic changes. The health, environment, economy, and daily life are all extremely harmed by water pollution. Emergent pollutants including microplastics, antibiotics, hormones, unregulated medicines, nano-based materials, endocrine disruptors, pesticides, and so on are detrimental to human health and the environment. The development of wastewater treatment methods that are quick, feasible, low-cost, efficient, and sustainable is a problem posed by the emergence of new pollutants in the water. The shortcomings of current traditional treatment methods can be reduced with nanotechnology's intervention as it can remediate the contaminants commonly found in traces within complex organic mineral compounds. Based on the types of pollutants and required level of treatment efficiency, several nanomaterials such as carbon nanotubes, nanocomposites, nano-sorbents, graphene, nanomembranes, nanofibers, and nano-catalysts and so on are employed for wastewater treatment. Nanomaterials have unique physcio-chemical properties like shape, size and structure, surface morphology, crystallinity, and so on. These special qualities make them ideal substitutes for wastewater cleanup, purification, and contamination detection using pollutant-specific nanosensors and detectors. This chapter covers the type of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies useful in wastewater treatment to remediate emerging pollutants of concern. It also discusses the toxicity associated with nanotechnology and its environmental concern. Further the recent trends of large-scale clean-up of wastewater using nanotechnology and the challenges and future perspective associated with it are discussed.
Novel approaches for removing emerging contaminants from sludge using fungal-mediated processes
Authors: Yakkou Lamia , Houida Sofia , Chelkha Maryam , Sarroukh Imane , Bhat Sartaj Ahmad , Abdelwahd Rabha , Ibriz Mohammed , Raouane Mohammed , Amghar Souad , Harti Abdellatif El
Published: April 2024

Emerging contaminants (ECs) such as pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and industrial chemicals pose an increasing threat to both the environment and human health, with their presence being detected more frequently in wastewater treatment plants and sludge. In response, fungal-mediated processes have emerged as a promising bioremediation technology, offering the unique ability to degrade a wide range of pollutants present in sludge. This chapter delves into the fungal species utilized for this purpose and recent advances in fungal-mediated processes, including genetically modified and immobilized fungi and combinations with other treatment methods. Furthermore, the mechanisms by which fungi remove ECs from sludge, such as biosorption, biodegradation, and enzyme production, are comprehensively discussed. Factors affecting the efficiency of fungal-mediated processes, including pH, temperature, fungal species, nutrient availability, and reactor design, are also examined. Finally, the chapter outlines the challenges encountered when using fungal-mediated processes to remove ECs from sludge and potential real-world applications of these processes in wastewater treatment scenarios.
In memory of professor Christian Schreiber
Authors: Редакционная статья
Published: April 2024

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Editorial
Authors: Karaskov A.
Published: April 2024

In Russ.
32nd EACTS Annual Meeting: brief report
Authors: Article Editorial
Published: April 2024

A brief report of Andrey V. Sapegin, Meshalkin National Medical Research Center
The results of the year
Authors: Article Editorial
Published: April 2024

In Russ.
Whisker Bond: From Findings to Concept in Refractories
Authors: Guo Zongqi , Wei Wenxu
Published: April 2024

Ceramic bonds are conventionally formed during the burning of refractory bricks and by using pre-fabricated blocks or monolithic lining, which is characterized as the coalescence of the particles by liquid sintering. However, the whisker bond was discovered with the outstanding performance of unburnt periclase–spinel–Al bricks while substituting magnesia–chrome bricks in the chromium-free campaign of refractory lining of RH degassers. Thanks to the prominent effect of the whisker bond, such a refractory material demonstrates ultrahigh hot strength, high resistance to slag penetration, and thermomechanical stress. Investigations reveal the initial melting of metal Al at the melting point of 660°C, aluminum liquid rims around the cavities formed before ~800°C, gaseous AlN yielded and distributed throughout the matrix with increasing temperature, gaseous Mg reduced from ~1000°C, and MgAlON whiskers eventually formed in the matrix. Microstructure observations show a dense interwoven whiskers bonded matrix in most residual parts of the used periclase–spinel–Al bricks. The whisker network in the matrix is made up of straight columns of 1–5 µm in diameter and 20–40 µm in length, which is different from birdnesting, nano-size curly whiskers observed in the past. The findings suggest a whisker-bond concept in terms of the bond mode of the whisker network and the process of the vapor-solid forming mechanism.
Personalized Management of Fatigue in Individuals With Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long COVID Using a Smart Digital mHealth Solution: Protocol for a Participatory Design Approach
Authors: Dorronzoro-Zubiete Enrique , Castro-Marrero Jesús , Ropero Jorge , Sevillano-Ramos José Luis , Dolores Hernández María , Sanmartin Sentañes Ramon , Alegre-Martin Jose , Launois-Obregón Patricia , Martin-Garrido Isabel , Luque Budia Asuncion , Lacalle-Remigio Juan R , Béjar Prado Luis , Rivera Romero Octavio
Published: April 2024

Background

Fatigue is the most common symptom in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and long COVID, impacting patients’ quality of life; however, there is currently a lack of evidence-based context-aware tools for fatigue self-management in these populations.

Objective

This study aimed to (1) address fatigue in ME/CFS and long COVID through the development of digital mobile health solutions for self-management, (2) predict perceived fatigue severity using real-time data, and (3) assess the feasibility and potential benefits of personalized digital mobile health solutions.

Methods

The MyFatigue project adopts a patient-centered approach within the participatory health informatics domain. Patient representatives will be actively involved in decision-making processes. This study combines inductive and deductive research approaches, using qualitative studies to generate new knowledge and quantitative methods to test hypotheses regarding the relationship between factors like physical activity, sleep behaviors, and perceived fatigue in ME/CFS and long COVID. Co-design methods will be used to develop a personalized digital solution for fatigue self-management based on the generated knowledge. Finally, a pilot study will evaluate the feasibility, acceptance, and potential benefits of the digital health solution.

Results

The MyFatigue project opened to enrollment in November 2023. Initial results are expected to be published by the end of 2024.

Conclusions

This study protocol holds the potential to expand understanding, create personalized self-management approaches, engage stakeholders, and ultimately improve the well-being of individuals with ME/CFS and long COVID.

International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID)

PRR1-10.2196/50157
Personalized Management of Fatigue in Individuals With Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long COVID Using a Smart Digital mHealth Solution: Protocol for a Participatory Design Approach (Preprint)
Authors: Dorronzoro-Zubiete Enrique , Castro-Marrero Jesús , Ropero Jorge , Sevillano-Ramos José Luis , Dolores Hernández María , Sanmartin Sentañes Ramon , Alegre-Martin Jose , Launois-Obregón Patricia , Martin-Garrido Isabel , Luque Budia Asuncion , Lacalle-Remigio Juan R , Béjar Prado Luis , Rivera Romero Octavio
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Fatigue is the most common symptom in myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) and long COVID, impacting patients’ quality of life; however, there is currently a lack of evidence-based context-aware tools for fatigue self-management in these populations.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to (1) address fatigue in ME/CFS and long COVID through the development of digital mobile health solutions for self-management, (2) predict perceived fatigue severity using real-time data, and (3) assess the feasibility and potential benefits of personalized digital mobile health solutions.

METHODS

The MyFatigue project adopts a patient-centered approach within the participatory health informatics domain. Patient representatives will be actively involved in decision-making processes. This study combines inductive and deductive research approaches, using qualitative studies to generate new knowledge and quantitative methods to test hypotheses regarding the relationship between factors like physical activity, sleep behaviors, and perceived fatigue in ME/CFS and long COVID. Co-design methods will be used to develop a personalized digital solution for fatigue self-management based on the generated knowledge. Finally, a pilot study will evaluate the feasibility, acceptance, and potential benefits of the digital health solution.

RESULTS

The MyFatigue project opened to enrollment in November 2023. Initial results are expected to be published by the end of 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

This study protocol holds the potential to expand understanding, create personalized self-management approaches, engage stakeholders, and ultimately improve the well-being of individuals with ME/CFS and long COVID.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

PRR1-10.2196/50157