bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EV Smart-Charging Strategy for Power Management in Distribution Grid with high penetration of Distributed Generation
Authors: Maia G.L. , Santos Caio César Lins , Nunes P.R.M. , Castro J.F.C. , Marques D.C. , Medeiros L.H.A. De , Limongi L.R. , Brito M.E.C. , Dantas N.K.L. , Filho A.V.M.L. , Fernandes A.L. , Chai J. , Zhang C.
Published: October 2024

Accelerated environmental impacts are a growing concern in the modern world. As a result, electric mobility and the transition to a cleaner energy matrix have become increasingly discussed topics. Several countries and entities have already made medium and long-term commitments related to electric mobility. In this context, this work presents a framework for controlling an electric vehicle (EV) charging station, integrated into a microgrid application, as a basis for creating the infrastructure integrated into a smart grid concept. Considering the future perspectives associated with the electrification of the transportation sector and expected impacts, a brief review is conducted on the prospects for the growth of electric vehicle fleets in different countries and how smart charging technologies are identified as solutions for mitigating the negative effects of energy and power consumption associated with EV charging stations. An analysis of the technical characteristics of EV charging is carried out, and the tools that enable the deployment of a fleet charging operator are examined specifically focusing on the communication protocol for EVs, such as the OCPP (Open Charge Point Protocol) parameterization/configuration. Additionally, a new charging station control method is proposed, aiming to manage the impacts of integrating distributed solar photovoltaic generation and mitigate the effects of the duck curve. Finally, this work also proposes an integration architecture for these elements, resulting in a practical implementation for variable power control throughout the day, considering different strategies to deal with distributed generation impact using EV fleet charging power demand dynamic management. Finally, a proposal for integration via IEC 61850 using low-cost devices for the implementation of a digital communication system is presented.
HDC1 Promotes Primary Root Elongation by Regulating Auxin and K+ Homeostasis in Response to Low K+ Stress
Authors: Kuang Xiaofang , Chen Hao , Xiang Jing , Zeng Juan , Liu Qing , Su Yi , Huang Chao , Wang Ruozhong , Lin Wanhuang , Huang Zhigang
Published: October 2024

Plants frequently encounter relatively low and fluctuating potassium (K+) concentrations in soil, with roots serving as the primary responders to this stress. Histone modifications, such as de-/acetylation, can function as epigenetic marks on stress-inducible genes. However, the signaling network between histone modifications and the low K+ (LK) response pathways remains unclear. This study delves into the regulatory role of Histone Deacetylase Complex 1 (HDC1) in primary root growth of Arabidopsis thaliana under K+ deficiency stress. Using a hdc1-2 mutant line, we observed that HDC1 positively regulates root growth under LK conditions. Compared to wild-type (WT) plants, the hdc1-2 mutant exhibited significantly inhibited primary root growth under LK conditions, whereas HDC1-overexpression lines displayed opposite phenotypes. No significant difference was observed under HK conditions. Further analysis revealed that the inhibition of hdc1-2 on root growth was due to reduced meristem cell proliferation rather than cell elongation. Notably, the root growth of hdc1-2 shows reduced sensitivity compared to WT after auxin treatment under LK conditions. HDC1 may regulate root growth by affecting auxin polar transport and subsequently auxin sensation, as evidenced by altered expression of auxin transport genes. Moreover, our study reveals a brake function of HDC1 in the regulation of CBL-CIPK-K+ channel related genes, thereby establishing a molecular link between histone deacetylation, auxin signaling, and CBL-CIPK pathway in response to K+ deficiency.
A Dual-Channel Naked-Eye Fluorescent Probe for Discriminative Detection of Sulfur Dioxide and Hydrazine
Authors: Li Sha , Hao Yu , Zheng Jun , Zhang Xingao
Published: October 2024

Hydrazine (N2H4) plays an important role in industrial production, but it is highly toxic, leakage or exposure will pollute the environment and cause serious harm to the human body. Sulfur dioxide (SO2) is an important gas signaling molecule, but its excessive intake can cause a variety of diseases. However, due to the lack of two-color probes capable of detecting both N2H4 and SO2, the ability to monitor the crosstalk of these substances is limited. Therefore, it is necessary to find a simple and effective method for dual-response detection of N2H4 and SO2 in environmental systems and organisms. Here, we developed a two-response fluorescence probe PI-CO-NH based on FRET regulation to detect N2H4 and SO2. The experimental results show that the probe has high selectivity and sensitivity, excellent stability, low cytotoxicity and high cell permeability, can visualize N2H4 and SO2 in living cells, and has good mitochondrial targeting ability. It is worth noting that the ability of the probe to detect N2H4 in different soil samples and test strips was successfully verified. PI-CO-NH provides a platform for the analysis and visualization of two biologically active and environmentally important species, which has great potential in the analysis and monitoring of environmental pollutants.
Localized Phase and Elemental Mapping in Solid-State-Lithium-Battery LTO Anode Thin-Film Produced by a Novel Suspension Plasma Spray Approach
Authors: Hasani Arman , Joshi Shrikant , Salminen Antti , Goel Sneha , Reuteler Joakim , Grazyna Makowska Malgorzata , Ganvir Ashish
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the phase and elemental distribution in a suspension plasma-sprayed (SPS) Li4Ti5O12 (LTO) thin-film anode for solid-state lithium batteries, deposited on an SS-304 substrate. Advanced synchrotron-based μXRD and μXRF techniques were employed for micro-scale characterization, revealing distinct phase regions influenced by thermal exposure during the SPS process. The dominant Li4Ti5O12 phase was retained across most of the film, with localized transformations to secondary phases Li2Ti3O7, Li2TiO3, and TiO2 near the substrate interface, primarily due to prolonged high-temperature exposure and subsequent lithium loss. These findings underscore the importance of controlling SPS parameters to minimize lithium loss and optimize phase stability and interfacial integrity in solid-state battery components.
A Study of the Community Relationships between Methanotrophs and Their Satellites Using Constraint-Based Modeling Approach
Authors: Esembaeva Maryam A. , Kulyashov Mikhail A. , Kolpakov Fedor A. , Akberdin Ilya R.
Published: October 2024

Biotechnology continues to drive innovation in the production of pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and other valuable compounds, leveraging the power of microbial systems for enhanced yield and sustainability. Genome-scale metabolic (GSM) modeling has become an essential approach in this field that enables a guide for target genetic modifications and optimization of metabolic pathways for various industrial applications. While single-species GSM models have traditionally been employed to optimize strains like Escherichia coli and Lactococcus lactis, the integration of these models into community-based approaches is gaining momentum. Constraint-based metabolic community (CBMc) models, which simulate the interactions between multiple microbial species, offer a more comprehensive understanding of metabolic networks and their potential for improvement of biotechnological processes on pilot- and industrial scales.
However, there are few platforms that effectively support both single-species GSM and CBMc models, limiting the accessibility and application of these advanced modeling techniques. In this study, we demonstrate the use of the BioUML platform, one of the few tools that provides simultaneous investigation of both single-species and community models. We harnessed the platform to reconstruct and analyze microbial interactions within a synthetic consortium of widely used biotechnology microorganisms: methanotroph, Methylococcus capsulatus Bath and engineered Escherichia coli strains under oxygen- and nitrogen- limited conditions. Our research highlights the potential of E. coli to reduce the accumulation of inhibitory by-products like acetate, thereby enhancing the metabolic efficiency and growth of M. capsulatus. The study underscores the utility of CBMc models in optimization of microbial consortia for biotechnological applications, offering new strategies for the sustainable production of biofuels, single-cell proteins, and other high-value compounds.
Tumorigenesis and Augmented Chemosensitivity Caused by Aberrant Expression of the Components in the Mammalian TREX-2 Complex
Authors: Rezano Andri , Gondo Naomi , Sakai Yasuhiro , Nakamura Yuko , Phimsen Suchada , Tani Tokio , Ito Akihiko , Okada Seiji , Kuwahara Kazuhiko
Published: October 2024

DNA is frequently damaged by genotoxic stresses such as ionizing radiation, reactive oxygen species, and nitrogen species. DNA damage is a key contributor to cancer initiation and progression, and thus the precise and timely repair of these harmful lesions is required. Recent studies revealed transcription as a source of genome instability, and transcription-coupled DNA damage has been a focus in cancer research. Impaired mRNA export is closely related to DNA damage through R-loop formation. The molecular machineries of transcription-coupled DNA damage have been extensively analyzed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. However, the molecular basis of these phenomena in higher eukaryotes remains elusive. In this review, we focus on the relationship between deregulated mRNA export, especially through the transcription-export-2 (TREX-2) complex, and cancer development. The expression of GANP, a key molecule in the TREX-2 complex, is highly associated with tumorigenesis in mouse and human. Additionally, we describe recent evidence for medical application that downregulation of the other components may be a good candidate for chemotherapeutic target in terms of reducing the side effects, although the involvement of R-loop is still ambiguous.
Assessment of Endothelial Function in Patients with COVID-19 Using Peripheral Arterial Tonometry
Authors: Moulias Athanasios , Koros Rafail , Papageorgiou Angeliki , Katechis Spyridon , Patrinos Panagiotis , Trigka-Vasilakopoulou Aikaterini , Papageorgiou Athanasios , Papaioannou Ourania , Akinosoglou Karolina , Leventopoulos Georgios , Tsigkas Grigorios , Tzouvelekis Argyrios , Davlouros Periklis
Published: October 2024

There is increasing evidence that COVID-19 induces endothelial dysfunction that may precede thrombotic and cardiovascular complications. The aim of this study is to evaluate the endothelial function using peripheral arterial tonometry (EndoPAT). The primary endpoint is the hyperemic vascular response index (LnRHI) at two months post-discharge. Secondary endpoints include the LnRHI during hospitalization and at six months follow-up, the proportion of patients with endothelial dysfunction (LnRHI≤0.51), and the incidence of thrombotic events, cardiovascular complications, and mortality during the follow-up period. The study included 23 COVID-19 patients and 22 healthy matched controls. The patients exhibited a significant reduction in the LnRHI at two months post-discharge compared to the controls (median=0.55 [IQR: 0.49-0.68] vs median=0.70 [IQR: 0.62-0.83]; p=0.012). The difference in the LnRHI between patients and controls was evident from hospitalization and persisted at two and six months without significant temporal changes. The proportion of COVID-19 patients with endothelial dysfunction (LnRHI≤0.51) was 61% during hospitalization, and 55% at six months. There was no significant difference in thrombotic or cardiovascular events, nor in mortality. This study demonstrates that COVID-19 adversely affects endothelial function, as evidenced by a reduction in the hyperemic vascular response index, and the endothelial dysfunction may also persist.
Sustainable Soil Management in Alkaline Soils: The Role of Biochar and Organic Nitrogen in Enhancing Soil Fertility
Authors: Khan Mushtaq Ahmad , Basir Abdul , Shah Syed Tanveer , Rehman Monsif Ur , Hassan Mehmood ul , Zheng Hongbing , Basit Abdul , Jamal Aftab , Radicetti Emanuele , Dewir Yaser Hassan , Mancinelli Roberto
Published: October 2024

Biochar (BC) serves a vital function in sequestering carbon, improving nutrient cycles, and boosting overall soil quality. This research investigated how both biochar and nitrogen, derived from both organic and inorganic sources, influence the physical and chemical properties of alkaline soils in semi-arid regions. The study particularly emphasized the effects on nitrogen availability. A field experiment was carried out from 2015 to 2017 using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with a split-plot arrangement. The study involved applying biochar at various rates (0, 10, 20, and 30 t ha⁻¹) and nitrogen at different levels (0, 90, 120, and 150 kg ha⁻¹) using urea, farmyard manure (FYM), and poultry manure (PM) as nitrogen sources. The application of biochar at the highest rate (30 t ha⁻¹) significantly increased soil organic carbon (SOC), soil organic matter (SOM), and soil moisture content (SMC) by over 120%. Additionally, it led to increases in total soil nitrogen (STN) by 14.16% and mineral nitrogen (SMN) by 9.09%. Conversely, biochar applications at this rate decreased soil bulk density (SBD), pH, and electrical conductivity (EC) by 28.52%, 3.38%, and 2.27%, respectively, compared to the control group. Similarly, applying nitrogen at 150 kg ha⁻¹ using FYM significantly improved SOC, SOM, SMC, and SBD. Using PM as a nitrogen source at the same rate enhanced STN and SMN while lowering soil pH and EC. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that combining biochar at a rate of 30 t ha⁻¹ with nitrogen at 150 t ha⁻¹, derived from either PM or FYM, holds significant promise for enhancing soil fertility and promoting carbon sequestration in alkaline soils within semi-arid environments. These findings underscore the value of integrating BC and organic N sources to enhance agroecosystem sustainability. Thus, the study provides a promising pathway to enhance soil quality, improve crop productivity, and support sustainable agricultural practices in challenging environments.
Toward Alleviating the Stigma of Hearing Aids: A Review
Authors: Madara Edward , Bhowmik Achintya K.
Published: October 2024

Despite the significant advancements in hearing aid technology, adoption rates remain low, with stigma continuing to be a major barrier. This review aims to systematically assess the origins and current state of hearing aid stigma, as well as explore potential strategies for allevi-ating it. The review examines societal perceptions, psychological impacts, and recent technolog-ical advancements that can influence hearing aid adoption and reduce stigma. Methods: A systematic review of literature from peer-reviewed journals and reputable sources was conducted, analyzing papers on hearing aid stigma, adoption rates, and technological solu-tions. The articles were categorized by their focus on either stigma causes, societal factors, or technological advancements aimed at improving adoption. Results: The review identifies stigma as a complex, multifaceted issue driven primarily by ageism, disability perception, and the association of hearing aids with aging and incapability. Despite technological improvements, the studies surveyed listed stigma as a major factor in non-adoption. Technological advancements such as artificial intelligence in sound processing, multifunctional features, and innovative design have shown potential in reducing stigma and improving user experience. Conclusions: Alleviating the stigma of hearing aids requires a multi-pronged approach, com-bining improvements in technology with changes in societal perceptions. Multifunctional devices, advanced signal processing, and aesthetic improvements can drive adoption, but broader public health campaigns and education are also essential to changing societal attitudes and fostering greater acceptance of hearing aids.
Fighting Marginalisation in New Self-Built Settlements in Chile: Commoning in Campamentos via Self-Managed Education
Authors: Martinez Cristobal , Guerrero Gonzalo
Published: October 2024

Chile is experiencing a twofold housing crisis provoked by the market and the state. On the market side, re-commodification of the housing market limits the access of those on low incomes; on the state side, exhaustion of the housing subsidies system (voucherism) due to low quality and peripheral social housing reflect an inability to deliver. In this context, self-built settlements (SBS) have skyrocketed to levels unseen since the 1980s and result in the spatial concentration of vulnerable Chilean and immigrant families in small and dense areas without limited access to urban services. This paper analyses how common resources are produced and managed in recent SBS in Santiago, through a socio-spatial analysis of a peripheral industrial brownfield occupied since 2015. The possibilities and channels of integration (housing, jobs, education) for families are differentiated by nationality, citizenship status and political leverage; however, common resources are valued and used transversally. Amidst partial efforts from the state to deliver welfare, lack of information and distrust from SBS neighbours towards institutions, and even to their own representatives, are problems that reinforce marginalisation. Self-managed organisations contribute to commoning, supporting children’s access to education and try to appropriate the community spaces co-produced with NGOs, neighbours and researchers.
The Relationship of Sociodemographic Attributes and Financial Well-Being of Low-Income Urban Families Amid Covid-19 Pandemic: A Case of Malaysia
Authors: AbdullahSalim Abdullah Sallehhuddin Abdullah , Md Yatim Norzarina , Abu Said Al Mansor
Published: October 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic and the Movement Control Order (MCO) have had a negative impact on the financial well-being of low-income families in urban areas. The study involved respondents living in the Public Housing Project (PPR) residential areas in Kuala Lumpur – the capital of Malaysia. The key finding is the financial well-being of low-income urban families was negatively impacted due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the MCO implementation. Furthermore, the impact on the financial well-being of low-income urban families is significantly difference in terms of types of family, type & sectoral employment, type of home ownership, household monthly income and education level. Reforms to the financial assistance system and community empowerment of low-income urban families are necessary to increase the community's preparedness and resilience in the face of new shocks in the future.
Extending Conflict-Based Search for Optimal and Efficient Quadrotor Swarm Motion Planning
Authors: Wang Zihao , Zhang Zhiwei , Dou Wenying , Hu Guangpeng , Zhang Lifu , Zhang Meng
Published: October 2024

Multi-agent pathfinding has been extensively studied in the robotics and artificial intelligence communities. The classical algorithm, Conflict-Based Search(CBS), is widely used in various real-world applications due to its ability to solve large-scale conflict-free paths. However, classical CBS assumes discrete time-space planning and overlooks physical constraints in actual scenarios, making it unsuitable for direct application in Unmanned Aerial Vehicle(UAV) swarm. Inspired by the decentralized planning and centralized conflict resolution ideas of CBS, we propose an optimal and efficient UAV swarm motion planner that integrates State Lattice with CBS, named SL-CBS. SL-CBS is a two-layer search algorithm: (1) The low-level search utilizes an improved State Lattice. We design emergency stop motion primitives to ensure complete UAV dynamics and handle spatio-temporal constraints from high-level conflicts. (2) The high-level algorithm defines comprehensive conflict types and proposes a motion primitive conflict detection method with linear-time complexity based on Sturm’s theory. Additionally, our modified Independence Detection(ID) technique is applied to enable parallel conflict processing. We validate the planning capabilities of SL-CBS in classical scenarios and compare it with State-Of-The-Art(SOTA) algorithms, showing great improvements in success rate, computation time, and flight time. Finally, we conduct large-scale tests to analyze the performance boundaries of SL-CBS+ID.
Correlation Between Impervious Surface and Surface Temperature Change in Typical Urban Agglomerations-Xuzhou City Example
Authors: Gao Yandong , Liu Huiqin , Zhang Hua , Zheng Nanshan , Li Shijin , Zhang Shubi , Zhang Di , Li Zhi , Yan Chao
Published: October 2024

The distribution of impervious surface is one of the important assessment indicators for evaluating the quality of urban ecological environment. Taking Xuzhou city as an example, we study the influence of the spatial distribution of impervious surfaces on urban surface temperature, using Landsat 8 remote sensing imagery and nighttime lighting data to extract the impervious surface information from 2013 to 2022 and carry out surface temperature inversion. The study area was divided into built-up and non-built-up areas using nighttime lighting data and the relevant indices were used to establish interest zones and finally the extraction of impervious surfaces was completed using supervised classification methods. The experimental results show that the kappa coefficient is not less than 0.8562, which makes the result more reliable. By extracting the impervious surface of Xuzhou City, it was found that the impervious surface of Xuzhou City continued to increase from 2013 to 2022, in which the growth rate was faster in 2014-2016 and 2019-2021, and slowed down in 2017-2018 and 2021-2022. The expansion of impervious surface was found to be one of the reasons for the increase of urban surface temperature through stacked analysis and linear regression analysis.
Integration Smart Grids, Distributed Generation, and Cybersecurity: Strategies for Securing and Optimizing Future Energy Systems
Authors: Cavus Muhammed
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the integration and optimization of smart grid (SG) technologies, distributed generation (DG), electric vehicles (EVs), and cybersecurity in the context of modern energy systems. As global energy systems transition towards decentralization and increase reliance on renewable energy, the interplay between these technologies offers significant opportunities to enhance grid flexibility, resilience, and sustainability. The integration of DG systems, supported by advanced battery and fuel cell (FC) technologies, plays a pivotal role in stabilizing the grid and facilitating the adoption of renewable energy. Through vehicle-to-grid (V2G) technologies, EVs provide dynamic solutions for energy storage and demand response (DR), contributing to efficient energy management and peak shaving. A critical focus of this paper is the growing importance of cybersecurity, as the digitization of energy infrastructures creates new vulnerabilities to cyber-attacks. Novel strategies, including artificial intelligence (AI)-driven automation, blockchain-based security for energy transactions, and quantum-resistant encryption, are explored to safeguard the future of energy systems. Drawing from global case studies, this review also addresses key challenges such as grid congestion, regulatory barriers, and interoperability, providing a roadmap for optimizing and securing the next generation of energy infrastructures.
A morfológiai tudatosság mérésének és fejlesztésének lehetőségei középiskoláskorban
Authors: Blanka Bartha
Published: October 2024

A morfológiai tudatosság a szavakat alkotó morfémák felismerésével és manipulálásával kapcsolatos képesség, amely egyaránt fontos szerepet játszik az olvasáselsajátításban és a szövegértési képesség fejlődésében. Hazánkban a morfológiai tudatosság kutatása az anyanyelv-elsajátítás korai szakaszaira korlátozódik, de relevánsnak látszik a középiskolás korú tanulók tudatosságának a vizsgálata is. A kutatás célja feltérképezni, hogy milyen eszközökkel mérhető a 15 éves szakiskolás tanulók morfológiai tudatossága, és felmérni, hogy tanórai keretek között van-e lehetőség a fejlesztésére. A tanulmány bemutat egy olyan tesztet, amely alkalmasnak bizonyult a középiskolás tanulók morfológiai tudatosságának a mérésére, és szemlélteti, hogy a fejlesztés előtt és után hogyan teljesítettek a teszt résztvevői. A kutatás a fejlesztés hatásosságát kontrollcsoport eredményeivel igazolja, majd összegzi a kutatási és a pedagógiai tapasztalatokat.
Pengaruh Jenis Biochar dan Jarak Tanam Terhadap Pertumbuhan dan Hasil Padi Gogo (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Fitria Ai , Nasrudin Nasrudin , Nurhidayah Siti
Published: October 2024

Upland rice has the potential to be cultivated on land that has limited water. Plant spacing needs to be done as a strategy so that upland rice can absorb light and water optimally. Apart from that, biochar can be used to improve soil properties so that it is suitable for supporting the growth of upland rice plants on dry land. The study aims to examine the response of biochar application and plant spacing on the growth and yield of upland rice. The study was conducted in the experimental garden of the Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Perjuangan Tasikmalaya at an altitude of 359 meters above sea level. This study used a factorial Randomized Completely Block Design (RCBD). The first factor is a type of biochar consisting of coconut shells and rice husks charcoal. The second factor is the plant spacing consisting of 20 x 20 cm and 30  x 30 cm. The results showed that there was no interaction between the two treatments on the growth and yield of upland rice. The application of biochar had a significant effect on the number of panicles per hill, while plant spacing had a significant effect on the root length, root wet weight, 1.000 seed weight, and yield. The coconut shell was able to increase the number of panicles per hill, while the wider plant spacing caused an increase in root length, root wet weight, 1.000 seed weight, and yield. In general, the application of biochar can improve crop yields, while regulating the plant spacing has the potential to increase the growth and yield of upland rice.
Incertidumbre, Estrés, Ansiedad, Depresión e Información en Personas con Esclerosis Múltiple
Authors: Cáceres Hernández Ena S. , Garrido-Hernansaiz Helena
Published: October 2024

Theoretical Framework. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is associated with increased depression and anxiety, which in turn are related to stress and uncertainty. The amount and quality of information, relevant due to their association with uncertainty in different populations, have not been investigated in people with MS. Method. Through MS associations, a questionnaire was distributed that collected demographic data, information (attendance at informational talks, internet searches, etc.), stress, uncertainty, anxiety, and depression. A total of 119 people with MS participated, mostly Spanish women belonging to an association with an average age of 46 years and Relapsing-Remitting MS. Results. 57% and 39% of the sample might have anxiety and depression problems, respectively. There were differences in anxiety and stress according to the type of MS. Uncertainty showed correlations of .21-.26 with stress, anxiety, and depression. The sample was generally satisfied with the information they had, especially with that provided by healthcare professionals, and the latter was the only information source that showed a significant inverse correlation with uncertainty (r = -.22). Depression was correlated with the amount of information searched on the internet (r = .17). There were no differences in uncertainty, stress, anxiety, or depression according to membership in associations or attendance at informational talks. Conclusions. Providing people with MS with reliable, clear, and tailored information is crucial to fostering their understanding of the disease and their psychological well-being, with healthcare professionals playing a key role in this.
Vitamin D status of pediatric epilepsy patients and evaluation of affecting factors
Authors: bilge serap , taskın sema nur
Published: October 2024

Anti-seizure medication that is used in patients with epilepsy is one of the significant risk factors associated with abnormal vitamin D status in these patients. We aimed to identify risk factors related to hypovitaminosis D in pediatric patients treated with anti-seizure medications. Method. A cross-sectional retrospective cohort study was conducted on 127 pediatric epilepsy patients who received anti-seizure drugs from December 2021 to December 2022. Demographic data, seizure types, diet, physical activity, duration, and types of anti-seizure medications were analyzed. Results; Among the 127 patients in this study, 53% were male, and the mean age was 9,1 ± 4.6 years (range: 2–17). The mean serum 25(OH)D level at baseline in winter/autumn was 24.2 ± 14.2 ng/mL; 47.0% of the patients were 25(OH) D deficient, 23% 25(OH)D insufficient, and 30% had a vitamin D level within the normal range. Vitamin 25(OH) D level was 27,6 ± 12,2 in the epilepsy group with non-enzyme-induced anti-seizure drugs, 21,76 ± 19,7 in enzyme-induced anti-seizure drugs, and 13,96 ± 7,9 in the group with combined anti- seizures drugs (p < 0.001). Conclusion: : The number of anti seizures drugs, treatment with enzyme-induced anti-seizure drugs, long duration of epilepsy, abnormal magnetic resonance imaging, and etiology play an important role on vitamine D level
Prediction of morality in Retinoblastoma using machine learning based on SEER database
Authors: Jin Qifang , Liu Qun , Hu Yiming , Zhang Lan
Published: October 2024

Background: Retinoblastoma (RB) is the most common intraocular malignancy tumor in children. However, few studies have explored the mortality of it and selected the optimal predictive model. In this study, we aim to choose a model to identify the morality of RB.
Patients and Methods: A total of 780 patients with RB obtained from SEER database were enrolled in this study. All patients were completely randomized in a 7:3 ratio into a training set (n = 546) and a test set (n = 234). The construction and visualization of all machine learning models were conducted by Python 3.8.0 and R 4.3.0. Various metrics including Area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), decision curve, receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC), accuracy, sensitivity (recall rate), specificity, and F1 score were utilized to assess and compare the predictive performance of the five models.
Results: Among these patients, over half of the children fall within the 1-4 years age group (51.8%). The CatBoost model performed best among the five models with an average AUC of 0.969, followed by the XGBoost model (AUC=0.968). Interestingly, the CatBoost model also achieves the highest score of accuracy, sensitivity (recall rate), specificity, and F1 score were 0.921, 0.882, 0.882, and 0.925 respectively.
Conclusion: CatBoost can be utilized as the optimal model for identifying the prognosis of Retinoblastoma (RB). This finding contributes a novel and significant contribution to research within the RB patient population.
Accuracy of healthcare systems data for identifying cardiovascular outcomes after stroke in the UK.
Authors: Hosking Alice , Stephen Jacqueline , Drever Jonathan , Whiteley William N. , Sudlow Cathie L.M. , Salman Rustam Al-Shahi
Published: October 2024

Background Healthcare systems data (HCSD) could improve the efficiency of clinical trials, but their accuracy and validity are uncertain. Our objective was to assess the accuracy of HCSD as the sole method of outcome detection in the REstart or STop Antithrombotics Randomised Trial (RESTART; ISRCTN71907627) compared with adjudicated questionnaire follow-up; and compare estimates of treatment effect.
Methods RESTART was a prospective, open, assessor-blind, parallel-group randomized controlled trial (RCT) of antiplatelet therapy after intracerebral haemorrhage (ICH) in the UK.
We included 496 (92%) of 537 RESTART participants, who were resident in England or Scotland at randomization. Computerized randomization incorporating minimization allocated participants (1:1) to start or avoid antiplatelet therapy.
RESTART used annual questionnaires to detect its primary outcome (recurrent ICH) and secondary outcome (a composite of haemorrhagic or ischemic major adverse cardiovascular events [MACE]) over a median of 2.0 years; an independent adjudication committee verified outcomes using medical records and brain imaging. We obtained ICD10-coded HCSD on hospital admissions and deaths in England and Scotland to identify primary and secondary outcomes. We compared HCSD with a reference standard of adjudicated outcomes. We estimated the effects of antiplatelet therapy using HCSD alone in a Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for minimization variables.
Results In the original RESTART trial, 31 people experienced a primary outcome event. HCSD had sensitivity of 84% (95% CI 66% to 95%) and positive predictive value of 68% (51% to 82%) for recurrent ICH. HCSD estimated an effect of antiplatelet therapy (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.51, 95% CI 0.27 to 0.98; p=0.044) that was almost identical to adjudicated outcomes (aHR 0.51, 95% CI 0.25 to 1.03; p=0.060). HCSD had sensitivity of 84% (76% to 91%) and positive predictive value of 78% (69% to 85%) for MACE, on which HCSD estimated an effect of antiplatelet therapy (aHR 0.81, 95% CI 0.56 to 1.16; p=0.247) that was similar to adjudicated outcomes (aHR 0.65, 95% CI 0.44 to 0.95; p=0.025).
Conclusions In a RCT of antiplatelet therapy for people with ICH, HCSD was reasonably accurate and provided similar estimates of treatment effect compared with adjudicated outcomes.
Trial registration: RESTART; ISRCTN71907627
Circuit-based Evidence and Practice of Neuromodulation for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: Towards the Optimal Neural Circuit
Authors: Zhang Jianguo , Ma Ruoyu , Wang Shu , Yin Zixiao , Gan Yifei , Zhao Zehua , Yuan Tianshuo , Chen Yingchuan , Du Tingting , Voon Valerie , Zhu Guanyu
Published: October 2024

Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is characterized by persistent intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors that are often resistant to traditional treatment methods such as medication and psychotherapy. Neuromodulation, targeting specific brain circuits, has emerged as a promising alternative for treating refractory OCD. This study aims to synthesize the effectiveness of various neuromodulation techniques, focusing particularly on their impact on neural circuitry based on existing symptom and treatment taxonomies. Through a systematic search of major databases, randomized controlled trials of both invasive and non-invasive neuromodulation techniques targeting different brain circuits were analyzed. The primary outcome was measured by changes in the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale. The comprehensive search included 868 patients and demonstrated significant improvement in OCD symptoms through neuromodulation. The most substantial improvements were observed when targeting the fronto-limbic circuit. Additional significant symptom relief was noted in interventions affecting the sensorimotor and ventral affective circuits, with invasive methods outperforming non-invasive ones. In addition, a detailed case study of Deep Brain Stimulation from our center targeting the subthalamic nucleus, nucleus accumbens, and anterior limb of the internal capsule (ALIC) highlighted substantial symptom relief by specifically modulating the fronto-limbic circuit (targeting ALIC), aligning with the results of the meta-analysis. The findings underline the importance to tailor neuromodulation treatments to individual patients’ needs on the circuitry basis, optimizing outcomes in OCD management.
Enhancement in stability of air bubbles in mortar at fresh state with different SCMs
Authors: Jiang Qian , Yu Cheng , Zhang Qian
Published: October 2024

The stability of air bubbles is a crucial factor in determining the workability, strength, durability and surface quality of concrete. There is a growing interest in the regulation of air bubble stability in concrete industry. This study examines the influence of various supplementary cementing materials (SCMs, 20% by weight in replacement of cement) on the foam/air bubble stability. The time-dependent evolutions of foaming height and air bubble size distribution were tested, which reflected the trend of the influence of different SCMs on the foam/air bubble stability in solutions or mortars. The air bubble size distribution in mortar was tested using AVA (air void analyzer) from 5 minutes to 60 minutes and X-CT from 60 minutes to 180 minutes after the mixture were prepared. The results demonstrated that over time, the number of small bubbles decreased, while the number of large bubbles increased. The primary change occurred within the initial 60 minutes. The results of the wettability test were combined with those of the X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis to identify a correlation between the stability of air bubbles and the wetting angle of the supplementary cementitious material (SCM). The wetting angle of the SCM was found to be within 90° in cases where the air bubbles were more stable. Furthermore, the XRD patterns revealed significant differences in the mineral compositions between the air bubble shells and the screened pastes from fresh mortar. The presence of more SCMs and hydration products on the air bubble shells than in the paste was identified as a potential reason for the observed differences in air bubble stability. The utilization of specific SCMs has the potential to enhance the air bubble stability in the context of concrete construction engineering, in addition to chemical admixtures.
Role of Inflammatory Markers and Doppler Parameters in Late-Onset Fetal Growth Restriction: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Ulusoy Can Ozan , Kurt Ahmet , Seyhanli Zeynep , Hizli Burak , Bucak Mevlut , Agaoglu Recep Taha , Oguz Yuksel , Yucel Kadriye Yakut
Published: October 2024

Objectives
This study evaluates the association of novel inflammatory markers and Doppler parameters in late-onset FGR, utilizing a machine learning approach to enhance predictive accuracy.
Materials and methods
A retrospective case-control study was conducted at the Department of Perinatology, Ministry of Health Etlik City Hospital, Ankara, from 2023 to 2024. The study included 240 patients between 32–37 weeks of gestation, divided equally between patients diagnosed with late-onset FGR and a control group. We focused on novel inflammatory markers—systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), and neutrophil-percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR)—and their correlation with Doppler parameters of umbilical and uterine arteries. Machine learning algorithms were employed to analyze data collected, including demographic, neonatal, and clinical parameters, to develop a predictive model for FGR.
Results
The machine learning model, specifically the Random Forest algorithm, effectively integrated the inflammatory markers with Doppler parameters to predict FGR. NPAR showed a significant correlation with FGR presence, providing a robust tool in the predictive model. In contrast, SII and SIRI, while useful, did not achieve the same level of predictive accuracy. The model highlighted the potential of combining ultrasound measurements with inflammatory markers to improve diagnostic accuracy for late-onset FGR.
Conclusions
This study illustrates the efficacy of integrating machine learning with traditional diagnostic methods to enhance the prediction of late-onset FGR. Further research with a larger cohort is recommended to validate these findings and refine the predictive model, which could lead to improved clinical outcomes for affected pregnancies.
The take-home message:
This study demonstrates that combining novel inflammatory markers, particularly the neutrophil-percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) and the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), with Doppler ultrasound parameters can significantly improve the prediction accuracy of late-onset fetal growth restriction (FGR) using a machine learning approach. This integration of machine learning with traditional diagnostic methods provides a more robust and cost-effective tool for the early diagnosis and management of FGR in clinical settings.
The Necessity of Prophylactic Central Lymph Node Dissection in Clinically N0 Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma: Perspective from the Endemic Region
Authors: Özel Tuğba Matlım , Soytaş Yiğit , Akbulut Sezer , Çelik Aykut , Yıldız Görkem , Karatay Hüseyin , Sarı Serkan
Published: October 2024

Background: Prophylactic central lymph node dissection (pCND) in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is still a matter of debate. Therefore, we aimed to identify the factors affecting central lymph node metastasis (CLNM) in patients with clinically node-negative (cN0) PTC.
Methods: This retrospective study included 248 patients with cN0 PTC who underwent total thyroidectomy (TT) or TT+pCND. Clinicopathological associations among CLNMs, complication rates and the effect of pCND on staging were assessed. Risk factors (RFs) and the pattern of lymph node metastasis (LNMs) in PTC patients were studied via multivariate analysis.
Results: A total of 216 patients underwent pCND, and 51.2% (127/216) had positive CLNMs. Male patients, aged <41 years, and those with lymphatic invasion were identified as RFs for CLNM, with odds ratios of 2.59, 2.26, and 4.09, respectively. Among the 216 patients, 65 (30%) had transient hypoparathyroidism (HPT) , and 20 (9.3%) had permanent HPT. Transient recurrent laryngeal nerve (RLN) palsy occurred in 15 (6.9%) patients, and permanent RLN palsy occurred in 3 (1.4%) patients. Over 55 years of age, 46.7% of patients were upstaged according to the American Joint Committee on Cancer (AJCC) TNM staging system, and 14.2% (n=18) of the 127 patients with CLNMs were upgraded according to the American Thyroid Association (ATA) risk stratification (RS) system.
Conclusion: Taken together, in terms of the high incidence rate of CLNM in cN0 PTC patients;
We believe that routine pCND, which can be performed with low morbidity rates, is optimal for cN0 PTC patients during their first treatment, especially for those with RFs for CLNM.
Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the Orthorexia Nervosa Inventory (ONI)
Authors: Sun Xinzhang , Lu YING , Jian CHENGPING , Zhang HANQING
Published: October 2024

Background
Orthorexia Nervosa (ON) is an emerging clinical eating disorder characterized by an obsessive and pathological focus on healthy eating. In recent years, the Orthorexia Nervosa Inventory (ONI) has gained recognition as a promising tool for assessing orthorexic tendencies and behaviors, addressing the limitations of existing ON-specific measures. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of the ONI.
Methods
A total of 717 participants (Mage = 20.11 years, 78.66% female) completed the Orthorexia Nervosa Inventory (ONI) alongside the Chinese version of the Düsseldorf Orthorexia Scale (C-DOS). The ONI was translated into Chinese using the Brislin traditional translation model, following formal authorization from the original author. This translation process included literal translation, back translation, and cultural adaptation to ensure both linguistic and contextual fidelity. Item analysis was employed to assess item differentiation, while the Delphi method was used to evaluate content validity. Scale reliability was determined by measuring internal consistency. Furthermore, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted to investigate and confirm the underlying factor structure and overall validity of the scale.
Results
The Chinese version of the Orthorexia Nervosa Inventory (ONI) comprises 24 items across three dimensions. The Cronbach’s alpha coefficient for the overall scale was 0.922, with individual dimensions having coefficients of 0.930, 0.925, and 0.855, respectively. The Spearman-Brown split-half reliability coefficient was 0.931, and McDonald's ω was also 0.931, indicating strong reliability. The KMO value was 0.949, well above the acceptable threshold of 0.600, confirming the data's suitability for factor analysis. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) with varimax orthogonal rotation retained items with loadings greater than 0.40 on a single factor. The resulting three-factor structure explained 62.439% of the total variance. All model fit indices fell within acceptable ranges, affirming the structural validity of the Chinese version. The results from both exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses further supported this conclusion.
Conclusion
This study successfully translated and culturally adapted the ONI into Chinese, followed by a comprehensive evaluation of its psychometric properties. The findings demonstrate that the Chinese version of the ONI possesses strong reliability and validity. In the context of varying cultural backgrounds and dietary habits, this scale serves as a valid tool for assessing and screening the Chinese ON population.
Construction and validation of the validity of a column chart based on pulse oximetry perfusion index and its difference multiplier to predict the anesthetic effect of epidural anesthesia for cesarean delivery surgery
Authors: Li Jiawei , Hu Jing , Chen Lu , Du Jianhua , Yuan Yingchuan
Published: October 2024

OBJECTIVE
To assess the application of PI and dPI in epidural anesthesia for cesarean delivery, to determine the effect of anesthesia, and to provide predictive criteria for determining whether the plane of anesthesia is appropriate for surgery.
METHODS
179 women undergoing cesarean section in the Department of Obstetrics of the Second Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University were included, and after epidural anesthesia was administered, the PI values of the index finger of the hand and the thumb of the foot were measured at 5min, 7min, and 9min after administration of the drug, and when the plane of anesthesia reached T6, respectively. The model was constructed using the 5-min data and expressed using a line graph, the model performance was evaluated using ROC curves, DCA curves, and clinical impact curves, and finally, the model was tested using internal validation and external validation using the 7- and 9-min data as external data.
RESULTS
Patients with higher dPI (> 1.85) as well as higher PI (> 4.15) had significantly higher rates of achieving anesthesia after epidural anesthesia; the column plots were satisfactorily calibrated and discriminated between the training cohort, internal validation cohort and external validation cohort (C-index for the training cohort was 0.989, for the internal validation cohort was 0.989, for the external validation cohort was 0.885); in addition DCA as well as clinical decision curves indicated a net clinical benefit for the column-line diagram.
CONCLUSION
Both PI and dPI were identified as independent predictors and ultimately included in the model, which can be used to predict the effectiveness of the plane of anesthesia in women undergoing cesarean delivery after epidural anesthesia.