bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A SURVEY ON AIR WRITING CHARACTER RECOGNITION AND TRANSLATION
Authors: R S Ekta , C K Kajal , V P Manali , M K Vaishnavi , S K Shraddha , M S Pranali ,   AGTI’S DACOE
Published: September 2023

Computer systems are increasingly using airwriting recognition since it can be done quickly and intelligently. The term "air-writing acknowledgment apparatus" refers to the use of a stylus to draw an articulated character or expression in free space. This study presents a simple yet effective convolutional neural network-based air-writing recognition method (CNN). It is suggested to use a plausible algorithm tracking hands to reward air-writing circles captured through a web camera. This study provides a straightforward but efficient method for recognizing air-writing that uses deep convolutional neural networks (CNNs). With the aid of hand motions, users can write characters in the air that are subsequently translated into written text using an air writing character recognition and translation technology. Convolutional neural networks (CNN), which are trained to recognise and decipher human hand gestures, power this technology. The device uses a camera to record the hand movements and then runs the data through CNN to identify the characters being typed. The identified characters are then converted into text that may be presented on a screen using text-to-speech technology.
REDUCING WORK IN PROCESS (WIP) USING LINE BALANCING TECHNIQUE IN MANUFACTURING INDUSTRY
Authors:   University of Engineering and Technology, Mustafa Ibrahim Muhammad
Published: September 2023

For organizations looking to increase productivity and efficiency in the manufacturing sector, reducing Work In Process (WIP) is a crucial goal. The deployment of line-balancing techniques to accomplish this goal is the main topic of this research article. The introduction discusses the negative consequences of WIP, including productivity loss, leads times that are too long, and bottlenecks. The application of lean manufacturing principles, workflow optimization, WIP limits establishment, improved communication and collaboration, prioritization and sequencing of work, identification and removal of bottlenecks, and performance monitoring are just a few of the methods for reducing WIP that are covered. The importance of line balancing in maximizing efficiency, effectiveness, and productivity in manufacturing output is emphasized in the study. The literature review explores the use of worksharing and line-balancing approaches to increase productivity as well as the advantages of line-balancing in eliminating operational inefficiencies. The procedure for data collection and analysis, which includes calculating cycle time and takt time, is described in the methodology section. To reduce WIP and streamline processes, the suggested methodology advises allocating greater resources to bottleneck stations. The outcomes show how the suggested methodology works to decrease WIP and boost productivity. The paper concludes by comparing the advantages of line balancing in reducing workstations, cycle time, balance delay, idle time, and overall line length. Present. The references provided offer relevant studies on line balancing and assembly line basics. This research contributes valuable insights and practical implications for improving productivity and reducing WIP in the manufacturing industry.
Incorporating drivers of global change throughout the annual cycle in species distribution models for migratory birds: a gap in ecological forecasting
Authors: Stevens Henry C. , Williams Emily J. , Stanley Calandra Q. , Dossman Bryant C. , Ciaburri Ivy , Cooper Nathan W. , Bowden Luciana S. , Dees Charles M. , Huang Jada , McCabe Jasmine , Wyman Bridget , Marra Peter. P.
Published: September 2023

Understanding the consequences of global change for migratory birds is complex as individuals are exposed to diverse conditions and experiences that interact across their annual cycle. Species distribution models (SDMs) can serve as a powerful tool that help us understand how species distributions respond to global change. However, SDMs applied to migratory birds may fail to capture the effects of seasonal variability on species distributional changes, likely due to a lack of appropriate modeling frameworks and limited data availability that hamper the inclusion of events and conditions throughout the annual cycle. Here, we review patterns in the migratory bird SDM literature over the last two decades using a vote counting approach, and provide a framework for migratory bird SDMs moving forward. We found evidence that species distribution models applied to migratory birds (1) typically incorporate data from only one season of the full annual cycle and do not account for seasonal interactions, (2) are focused on terrestrial species in North America and Europe, (3) tend to model the distributions of obligate migratory species, especially songbirds and waterfowl, and (4) largely lack biologically relevant threat layers. To improve our ability to forecast how species cope with global change, we recommend a Bayesian modeling framework where existing knowledge about a species’ migratory connectivity, threats, and/or other biologically relevant factors can be specified via model priors. Full annual cycle species distribution models are important tools for improving forecasts of migratory bird distributions in response to global change.
Increased content and uniformity of enzyme-induced calcite precipitation realized by prehydrolysis and an accelerated injection rate
Authors: Zhu Chenhao , Li Zhiqing , Zhang Zhongjian , Zhang Yu , Zhou Yingxin , Wang Jianhong
Published: September 2023

The utilization of enzyme-induced calcium carbonate precipitation (EICP) to consolidate aeolian sand has received significant attention in recent years. When EICP was used and cementing solution was injected in stages, the calcium carbonate content and uniformity were not improved simultaneously. A method is proposed to alleviate this problem by pre-reacting urea and urease before injecting the cementing solution and speeding up the injection rate. Experiments were designed to compare staged injections of EICP-cemented aeolian sand with and without the use of prehydrolysis and with different injection rates. The results show that 1) at the same injection rate, the content of calcium carbonate in the prehydrolysis samples after 12 injections was 66.1% higher than that in the samples without prehydrolysis. 2) When using prehydrolysis, the calcium carbonate content as a function of the injection rate decreased in the following order: 10 mL/min >15 mL/min >7.5 mL/min. The highest amount of calcium carbonate was generated at an injection rate of 10 mL/min and was mainly distributed on the surface. The calcium carbonate generated with an injection rate of 15 mL/min was uniformly distributed in the sand. These results indicate that the method could improve the efficiency of calcium carbonate generation and distribution uniformity, and could also be applied to form a hard crust on the surface of sandy soil or for reinforcing sandy soil by multiple injections.
Crosstalk of RNA methylation writers defines tumor microenvironment and alisertib resistance in breast cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqiang , Shen Li , Zhu Yanhui , Zhai Changyuan , Zeng Hanling , Liu Xiaoan , Tao Jing
Published: September 2023

Background

The five major RNA methylation modifications (m6A, m1A, m6Am, m5C, and m7G) exert biological roles in tumorigenicity and immune response, mediated mainly by “writer” enzymes. Here, the prognostic values of the “writer” enzymes and the TCP1 role in drug resistance in breast cancer (BC) were explored for further therapeutic strategies.

Methods

We comprehensively characterized clinical, molecular, and genetic features of subtypes by consensus clustering. RNA methylation modification “Writers” and related genes_risk (RMW_risk) model for BC was constructed via a machine learning approach. Moreover, we performed a systematical analysis for characteristics of the tumor microenvironment (TME), alisertib sensitivity, and immunotherapy response. A series of experiments in vitro were carried out to assess the association of TCP1 with drug resistance.

Results

One “writer” (RBM15B) and two related genes (TCP1 and ANKRD36) were identified for prognostic model construction, validated by GSE1456, GSE7390, and GSE20685 cohorts and our follow-up data. Based on the patterns of the genes related to prognosis, patients were classified into RMW_risk-high and RMW_risk-low subtypes. Lower RMW_Score was associated with better overall survival and the infiltration of immune cells such as memory B cells. Further analysis revealed that RMW_Score presented potential values in predicting drug sensitivity and response for chemo- and immunotherapy. In addition, TCP1 was confirmed to promote BC alisertib-resistant cell proliferation and migration in vitro.

Conclusion

RMW_Score could function as a robust biomarker for predicting BC patient survival and therapeutic benefits. This research revealed a potential TCP1 role regarding alisertib resistance in BC, providing new sights into more effective therapeutic plans.
A two-cohort study on the association between the gut microbiota and bone density, microarchitecture, and strength
Authors: Okoro Paul C. , Orwoll Eric S. , Huttenhower Curtis , Morgan Xochitl , Kuntz Thomas M. , McIver Lauren J. , Dufour Alyssa B. , Bouxsein Mary L. , Langsetmo Lisa , Farsijani Samaneh , Kado Deborah M. , Pacifici Roberto , Sahni Shivani , Kiel Douglas P.
Published: September 2023

The gut microbiome affects the inflammatory environment through effects on T-cells, which influence the production of immune mediators and inflammatory cytokines that stimulate osteoclastogenesis and bone loss in mice. However, there are few large human studies of the gut microbiome and skeletal health. We investigated the association between the human gut microbiome and high resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT) scans of the radius and tibia in two large cohorts; Framingham Heart Study (FHS [n=1227, age range: 32 – 89]), and the Osteoporosis in Men Study (MrOS [n=836, age range: 78 – 98]). Stool samples from study participants underwent amplification and sequencing of the V4 hypervariable region of the 16S rRNA gene. The resulting 16S rRNA sequencing data were processed separately for each cohort, with the DADA2 pipeline incorporated in the16S bioBakery workflow. Resulting amplicon sequence variants were assigned taxonomies using the SILVA reference database. Controlling for multiple covariates, we tested for associations between microbial taxa abundances and HR-pQCT measures using general linear models as implemented in microbiome multivariable association with linear model (MaAslin2). Abundance of 37 microbial genera in FHS, and 4 genera in MrOS, were associated with various skeletal measures (false discovery rate [FDR] ≤ 0.1) including the association of DTU089 with bone measures, which was independently replicated in the two cohorts. A meta-analysis of the taxa-bone associations further revealed (FDR ≤ 0.25) that greater abundances of the genera; Akkermansia and DTU089, were associated with lower radius total vBMD, and tibia cortical vBMD respectively. Conversely, higher abundances of the genera; Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group, and Faecalibacterium were associated with greater tibia cortical vBMD. We also investigated functional capabilities of microbial taxa by testing for associations between predicted (based on 16S rRNA amplicon sequence data) metabolic pathways abundance and bone phenotypes in each cohort. While there were no concordant functional associations observed in both cohorts, a meta-analysis revealed 8 pathways including the super-pathway of histidine, purine, and pyrimidine biosynthesis, associated with bone measures of the tibia cortical compartment. In conclusion, our findings suggest that there is a link between the gut microbiome and skeletal metabolism.
The potential of a combination of pungent spices as a novel supplement in gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata) diets to aid in the strategic use of fish oil in aquafeeds: a holistic perspective
Authors: Ruiz Alberto , Sanahuja Ignasi , Andree Karl B. , Furones Dolors , Holhorea Paul G. , Calduch-Giner Josep A. , Pastor Jose J. , Viñas Marc , Pérez-Sánchez Jaume , Morais Sofia , Gisbert Enric
Published: September 2023

This work studied the potential of a combination of pungent spices (capsicum, black pepper, ginger, and cinnamaldehyde) to be used as a supplement in diets of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata; 44.1 ± 4.2 g). During 90 days, fish were fed three experimental diets with low inclusion of fish oil and containing poultry fat as the main source of lipids, supplemented with graded levels of the tested supplement: 0 (control), 0.1 (SPICY0.1%), and 0.15% (SPICY0.15%). As a result, the pungent spices enhanced the growth performance, the activity of the bile-salt-activated lipase in the intestine, and decreased fat deposit levels within enterocytes. The SPICY0.1% diet reduced the feed conversion ratio and the perivisceral fat index and lipid deposits in the liver. Moreover, the ratio of docosahexaenoic acid/eicosapentaenoic acid in fillet increased in fish fed the SPICY0.1% diet, while the hepatic levels of docosahexaenoic acid and total n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids increased in fish fed the SPICY0.15% diet. Furthermore, there was an effect on the expression of some biomarkers related to lipid metabolism in 2-h postprandial fish (fasn, elovl6, scd1b, cyp7a1, lpl, and pparβ), and in 48 h fasted-fish fed with the SPICY0.1% diet, a regulation of the intestinal immune response was indicated. However, no significant differences were found in lipid apparent digestibility and proximate macronutrient composition. The spices did not affect biomarkers of hepatic or oxidative stress. No differences in microbial diversity were found, except for an increase in Simpson’s Index in the posterior intestine of fish fed the SPICY0.1% diet, reflected in the increased relative abundance of the phylum Chloroflexi and lower relative abundances of the genera Campylobacter, Corynebacterium, and Peptoniphilus. In conclusion, the supplementation of gilthead seabream diets with pungent spices at an inclusion of 0.1% was beneficial to enhance growth performance and feed utilization; reduce fat accumulation in the visceral cavity, liver, and intestine; and improve the fish health status and condition. Results suggest that the tested supplement can be used as part of a nutritional strategy to promote a more judicious use of fish oil in fish diets due to its decreasing availability and rising costs.
Pretransplant BKV-IgG serostatus and BKV-specific ELISPOT assays to predict BKV infection after kidney transplantation
Authors: Bae Hyunjoo , Jung Seungwon , Chung Byung Ha , Yang Chul Woo , Oh Eun-Jee
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Polyomavirus (BKV) infection can lead to major complications and damage to the graft in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs). We investigated whether pretransplant BK serostatus and BK-specific cell-mediated immunity (CMI) predicts post-transplant BK infection.

Methods

A total of 93 donor-recipient pairs who underwent kidney transplantation (KT) and 44 healthy controls were examined. Assessment of donor and recipient BKV serostatus and BKV-CMI in recipients was performed prior to transplantation using BKV-IgG ELISA and BKV-specific IFN-g ELISPOT assays against five BK viral antigens (LT, St, VP1, VP2, and VP3). BK viremia was diagnosed when blood BKV-DNA of 104 copies/mL or more was detected during follow-up periods.

Results

Anti-BKV IgG antibody was detected in 74 (79.6%) of 93 KTRs and in 68 (73.1%) of 93 KT donors. A greater percentage of KTRs who received allograft from donors with high levels of anti-BKV IgG had posttransplant BK viremia (+) than KTRs from donors with low anti-BKV IgG (25.5% [12/47] vs. 4.3% [2/46], respectively; P = 0.007). Pretransplant total BKV-ELISPOT results were lower in BK viremia (+) patients than in patients without viremia (-) 20.5 [range 9.9−63.6] vs. 72.0 [43.2 - 110.8]; P = 0. 027). The sensitivity and specificity of the total BKV-ELISPOT assay (cut-off ≤ 53 spots/3×105 cells) for prediction of posttransplant BK viremia were 71.4 (95% CI: 41.9–91.6) and 54.4 (42.8–65.7), respectively. The combination of high donor BKV-IgG, low recipient BKV-IgG, and low total BKV-ELISPOT results improved specificity to 91.1%.

Discussion

Our study highlights the importance of pretransplant BKV-IgG serostatus and BKV-specific CMI in predicting posttransplant BKV infection in KTRs. The combination of high donor BKV-IgG, low recipient BKV-IgG, and low total BKV-ELISPOT results predicted BK viremia after KT. Pretransplant identification of patients at highrisk for BK viremia could enable timely interventions and improve clinical outcomes of KTRs.
Suppressive might of a few: T follicular regulatory cells impede auto-reactivity despite being outnumbered in the germinal centres
Authors: Schips Marta , Mitra Tanmay , Bandyopadhyay Arnab , Meyer-Hermann Michael
Published: September 2023

The selection of high-affinity B cells and the production of high-affinity antibodies are mediated by T follicular helper cells (Tfhs) within germinal centres (GCs). Therein, somatic hypermutation and selection enhance B cell affinity but risk the emergence of self-reactive B cell clones. Despite being outnumbered compared to their helper counterpart, the ablation of T follicular regulatory cells (Tfrs) results in enhanced dissemination of self-reactive antibody-secreting cells (ASCs). The specific mechanisms by which Tfrs exert their regulatory action on self-reactive B cells are largely unknown. We developed computer simulations to investigate how Tfrs regulate either selection or differentiation of B cells to prevent auto-reactivity. We observed that Tfr-induced apoptosis of self-reactive B cells during the selection phase impedes self-reactivity with physiological Tfr numbers, especially when Tfrs can access centrocyte-enriched GC areas. While this aided in selecting non-self-reactive B cells by restraining competition, higher Tfr numbers distracted non-self-reactive B cells from receiving survival signals from Tfhs. Thus, the location and number of Tfrs must be regulated to circumvent such Tfr distraction and avoid disrupting GC evolution. In contrast, when Tfrs regulate differentiation of selected centrocytes by promoting recycling to the dark zone phenotype of self-reactive GC resident pre-plasma cells (GCPCs), higher Tfr numbers were required to impede the circulation of self-reactive ASCs (s–ASCs). On the other hand, Tfr-engagement with GCPCs and subsequent apoptosis of s–ASCs can control self-reactivity with low Tfr numbers, but does not confer selection advantage to non-self-reactive B cells. The simulations predict that to restrict auto-reactivity, natural redemption of self-reactive B cells is insufficient and that Tfrs should increase the mutation probability of self-reactive B cells.
Combined effects of host genetics and diet on porcine intestinal fungi and their pathogenic genes
Authors: Wang Tao , Liu Jiahao , Luo Yuheng , Yu Bing , Kong Xiangfeng , Zheng Ping , Huang Zhiqing , Mao Xiangbing , Yu Jie , Luo Junqiu , Yan Hui , He Jun
Published: September 2023

As research on gut microbes progresses, it becomes increasingly clear that a small family of microbiota--fungi, plays a crucial role in animal health. However, little is known about the fungal composition in the pig intestine, especially after a dietary fiber diet and hybrid genetics, and the changes in host pathogenicity-associated genes they carry. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of diet and genetics on the diversity and structure of porcine intestinal fungi and to describe, for the first time, the host pathogenicity-related genes carried by porcine intestinal fungi. Samples of colonic contents were collected for metagenomic analysis using a 3 × 2 parsing design, where three pig breeds (Taoyuan, Duroc, and crossbred Xiangcun) were fed high or low fiber diets (n = 10). In all samples, we identified a total of 281 identifiable fungal genera, with Ascomycota and Microsporidia being the most abundant fungi. Compared to Duroc pigs, Taoyuan and Xiangcun pigs had higher fungal richness. Interestingly, the fiber diet significantly reduced the abundance of the pathogenic fungus Mucor and significantly increased the abundance of the fiber digestion-associated fungus Neocallimastix. Pathogenic fungi exert their pathogenicity through the genes they carry that are associated with host pathogenicity. Therefore, we obtained 839 pathogenicity genes carried by the spectrum of fungi in the pig intestine by comparing the PHI-base database. Our results showed that fungi in the colon of Taoyuan pigs carried the highest abundance of different classes of host pathogenicity-related genes, and the lowest in Duroc pigs. Specifically, Taoyuan pigs carried high abundance of animal pathogenicity-related genes (CaTUP1, CPAR2_106400, CaCDC35, Tfp1, CaMNT2), and CaTUP1 was the key gene for Candida pathogenicity. The intestinal fungal composition of crossbred Xiangcun pigs and the abundance of host pathogenicity-associated genes they carried exhibited a mixture of characteristics of Taoyuan and Duroc pigs. In conclusion, our results provide the first comprehensive report on the effects of dietary fiber and genetics on the composition of intestinal fungi and the host-associated pathogenicity genes they carry in pigs. These findings provide a reference for subsequent pig breeding and development of anti-pathogenic fungal drugs.
Characterization of the extracellular vesicles, ultrastructural morphology, and intercellular interactions of multiple clinical isolates of the brain-eating amoeba, Naegleria fowleri
Authors: Russell A. Cassiopeia , Bush Peter , Grigorean Gabriela , Kyle Dennis E.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

As global temperatures rise to unprecedented historic levels, so too do the latitudes of habitable niches for the pathogenic free-living amoeba, Naegleria fowleri. This opportunistic parasite causes a rare, but >97% fatal, neurological infection called primary amoebic meningoencephalitis. Despite its lethality, this parasite remains one of the most neglected and understudied parasitic protozoans.

Methods

To better understand amoeboid intercellular communication, we elucidate the structure, proteome, and potential secretion mechanisms of amoeba-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are membrane-bound communication apparatuses that relay messages and can be used as biomarkers for diagnostics in various diseases.

Results and Discussion

Herein we propose that N. fowleri secretes EVs in clusters from the plasma membrane, from multivesicular bodies, and via beading of thin filaments extruding from the membrane. Uptake assays demonstrate that EVs are taken up by other amoebae and mammalian cells, and we observed a real-time increase in metabolic activity for mammalian cells exposed to EVs from amoebae. Proteomic analysis revealed >2,000 proteins within the N. fowleri-secreted EVs, providing targets for the development of diagnostics or therapeutics. Our work expands the knowledge of intercellular interactions among these amoebae and subsequently deepens the understanding of the mechanistic basis of PAM.
Modified nusinersen intrathecal injection method: inclusion of a septal needle-free closed infusion connector
Authors: Zhang Yani , Zheng Kelu , Liang Cuili , Zheng Ruidan , Chen Jinghui , Jiang Minyan , Zhou Zhizi , Zhao Yuan , Rao Min , Yang Sida , Chen Wenxiong , Liu Li
Published: September 2023

Objective

Nusinersen, an extremely expensive biologic drug (around 100,000 US$ per dose) that needs to be administered intrathecally, is approved for the treatment of 5q-spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). Because of the low muscle tone of the back muscles of pediatric SMA patients, especially type 1 SMA patients, the safe, effective, and fast execution of sheath injection is needed. Therefore, a modified intrathecal injection method was developed accordingly. This paper aims to describe the applicability and safety of this modified method.

Methods

The modified intrathecal injection method (MIIM) mainly includes a septal needle-free closed infusion connector between the lumbar puncture needle and the syringe, besides the procedures of routine lumbar puncture. Its applicability and safety were evaluated through clinical observation.

Results

A total of 92 children with SMA have successfully received nusinersen treatment at our hospital using the modified method since 2019 without obvious adverse events related to the modified injection method. Based on the clinical feedback of operators, the advantages of the modified method include successfully injecting the total dose of nusinersen with constant injection rate and a more stable fixation of the puncture needle, as well as making the operator more relaxed. However, compared with the routine method, the procedure of the modified method has additional steps.

Conclusion

The modified intrathecal injection method is an effective and safe method to inject nusinersen when weighing the pros and cons, and it may also be used for administering intrathecal injections of other expensive medicines or for patients with other strict requirements for intrathecal injection.
White matter microstructure alterations in idiopathic restless legs syndrome: a study combining crossing fiber-based and tensor-based approaches
Authors: Xue Yibo , Xie Sangma , Wang Xunheng , Xi Xugang , Liu Chunyan
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a common sensorimotor disorder characterized by an irrepressible urge to move the legs and frequently accompanied by unpleasant sensations in the legs. The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying RLS remain unclear, and RLS is hypothesized to be associated with alterations in white matter tracts.

Methods

Diffusion MRI is a unique noninvasive method widely used to study white matter tracts in the human brain. Thus, diffusion-weighted images were acquired from 18 idiopathic RLS patients and 31 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). Whole brain tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) and atlas-based analyzes combining crossing fiber-based metrics and tensor-based metrics were performed to investigate the white matter patterns in individuals with RLS.

Results

TBSS analysis revealed significantly higher fractional anisotropy (FA) and partial volume fraction of primary (F1) fiber populations in multiple tracts associated with the sensorimotor network in patients with RLS than in HCs. In the atlas based analysis, the bilateral anterior thalamus radiation, bilateral corticospinal tract, bilateral inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, left hippocampal cingulum, left inferior longitudinal fasciculus, and left uncinate fasciculus showed significantl increased F1, but only the left hippocampal cingulum showed significantly higher FA.

Discussion

The results demonstrated that F1 identified extensive alterations in white matter tracts compared with FA and confirmed the hypothesis that crossing fiber-based metrics are more sensitive than tensor-based metrics in detecting white matter abnormalities in RLS. The present findings provide evidence that the increased F1 metric observed in sensorimotor tracts may be a critical neural substrate of RLS, enhancing our understanding of the underlying pathological changes.
Endoscopic image classification algorithm based on Poolformer
Authors: Wang Huiqian , Wang Kun , Yan Tian , Zhou Hekai , Cao Enling , Lu Yi , Wang Yuanfa , Luo Jiasai , Pang Yu
Published: September 2023

Image desmoking is a significant aspect of endoscopic image processing, effectively mitigating visual field obstructions without the need for additional surgical interventions. However, current smoke removal techniques tend to apply comprehensive video enhancement to all frames, encompassing both smoke-free and smoke-affected images, which not only escalates computational costs but also introduces potential noise during the enhancement of smoke-free images. In response to this challenge, this paper introduces an approach for classifying images that contain surgical smoke within endoscopic scenes. This classification method provides crucial target frame information for enhancing surgical smoke removal, improving the scientific robustness, and enhancing the real-time processing capabilities of image-based smoke removal method. The proposed endoscopic smoke image classification algorithm based on the improved Poolformer model, augments the model’s capacity for endoscopic image feature extraction. This enhancement is achieved by transforming the Token Mixer within the encoder into a multi-branch structure akin to ConvNeXt, a pure convolutional neural network. Moreover, the conversion to a single-path topology during the prediction phase elevates processing speed. Experiments use the endoscopic dataset sourced from the Hamlyn Centre Laparoscopic/Endoscopic Video Dataset, augmented by Blender software rendering. The dataset comprises 3,800 training images and 1,200 test images, distributed in a 4:1 ratio of smoke-free to smoke-containing images. The outcomes affirm the superior performance of this paper’s approach across multiple parameters. Comparative assessments against existing models, such as mobilenet_v3, efficientnet_b7, and ViT-B/16, substantiate that the proposed method excels in accuracy, sensitivity, and inference speed. Notably, when contrasted with the Poolformer_s12 network, the proposed method achieves a 2.3% enhancement in accuracy, an 8.2% boost in sensitivity, while incurring a mere 6.4 frames per second reduction in processing speed, maintaining 87 frames per second. The results authenticate the improved performance of the refined Poolformer model in endoscopic smoke image classification tasks. This advancement presents a lightweight yet effective solution for the automatic detection of smoke-containing images in endoscopy. This approach strikes a balance between the accuracy and real-time processing requirements of endoscopic image analysis, offering valuable insights for targeted desmoking process.
CD40 gene polymorphism and its expression in children with Kawasaki disease from North India: a preliminary case–control study and meta-analysis
Authors: Patra Pratap Kumar , Jindal Ankur Kumar , Rikhi Rashmi , Kaur Anit , Srivastava Priyanka , Suri Deepti , Rawat Amit , Pilania Rakesh , Singh Surjit
Published: September 2023

Introduction

CD40 gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been associated with susceptibility and development of coronary artery abnormalities (CAAs) in children with Kawasaki disease (KD) in Japanese, Chinese, and Taiwanese populations. However, data on SNPs of the CD40 gene in patients with KD from the Indian subcontinent are not available. We studied the CD40 gene polymorphisms and its expression in children with KD from North India.

Methods

SNPs of the CD40 gene (rs4810485, rs1535045) were studied using Sanger sequencing. CD40 expression was studied by flow cytometry. Meta-analysis was carried out to assess the role of both SNPs of the CD40 gene in KD. GRADEpro GDT software (v.3.2) was used to assess the “certainty of evidence.”

Results

Forty-one patients with KD and 41 age-, sex-matched febrile controls were enrolled. However, none of the alleles and genotypes of the CD40 gene were found to be associated with KD. CD40 expression was higher in KD and in KD with CAAs compared to controls, but it failed to reach statistical significance. In a meta-analysis, the T allele of rs153045 was found to be significantly associated with KD (OR = 1.28; 95% confidence interval (: 1.09–1.50; p = 0.002). The GRADE of evidence for this outcome, however, is of “ very low certainty.”

Conclusion

The present study found no association between SNPs (rs4810485 and rs153045) and susceptibility to KD. This could be a reflection of a modest sample size. CD40 expression was higher in KD and in KD with CAAs. In the meta-analysis, the T allele of rs153045 was significantly associated with KD. Our study confirms a significant genetic heterogeneity in KD among different ethnicities.
Integrated network analysis and metabolomics reveal the molecular mechanism of Yinchen Sini decoction in CCl4-induced acute liver injury
Authors: Zheng Weiwei , Shi Chao , Meng Yao , Peng Jian , Zhou Yongfei , Pan Tong , Ning Ke , Xie Qiuhong , Xiang Hongyu
Published: September 2023

Objective: Yinchen Sini decoction (YCSND), a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula, plays a crucial role in the treatment of liver disease. However, the bioactive constituents and pharmacological mechanisms of action remain unclear. The present study aimed to reveal the molecular mechanism of YCSND in the treatment of acute liver injury (ALI) using integrated network analysis and metabolomics.

Methods: Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with Q-Exactive focus mass spectrum (UHPLC-QE-MS) was utilized to identify metabolites in YCSND, and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was applied to evaluate the quality of four botanical drugs in YCSND. Cell damage and ALI models in mice were established using CCl4. 1H-NMR metabolomics approach, along with histopathological observation using hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), biochemical measurements, and reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR), was applied to evaluate the effect of YCSND on CCl4- induced ALI. Network analysis was conducted to predict the potential targets of YCSND in ALI.

Result: Our results showed that 89 metabolites in YCSND were identified using UHPLC-QE-MS. YCSND protected against ALI by reducing the levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and malondialdehyde (MDA) contents and increasing those of superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) both in vivo and in vitro. The 1H-NMRmetabolic pattern revealed that YCSND reversed CCl4-induced metabolic abnormalities in the liver. Additionally, the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genome (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis identified five pathways related to liver injury, including the PI3K-AKT, MAPK, HIF-1, apoptosis, and TNF signaling pathways. Moreover, RT-qPCR showed YCSND regulated the inflammatory response (Tlr4, Il6, Tnfα, Nfκb1, Ptgs2, and Mmp9) and apoptosis (Bcl2, Caspase3, Bax, and Mapk3), and inhibited PI3K-AKT signaling pathway (Pi3k and Akt1). Combined network analysis and metabolomics showed a link between the key targets (Tlr4, Ptgs2, and Mmp9) and vital metabolites (choline, xanthine, lactate, and 3-hydroxybutyric acid) of YCSND in ALI.

Conclusion: Overall, the results contribute to the understanding of the therapeutic effects of YCSND on ALI, and indicate that the integrated network analysis and metabolomics could be a powerful strategy to reveal the pharmacological effects of TCM.
Therapeutic potential of traditional Chinese medicine on heat stroke
Authors: Li Lei , Wang Man , Chen Jikuai , Chen Juelin , Wang Yawei , Zhao Minghao , Song Qing , Xu Shuogui
Published: September 2023

As global warming progresses, heat waves are becoming increasingly frequent and intense, meanwhile the incidence of heat stroke (HS) has increased sharply during the past decades. HS is typically associated with significant morbidity and mortality, and there is an urgent need for further research to solve this difficult issue. There currently exists difficulties regarding on-site emergency treatment methods and limited in-hospital treatment approaches, and better treatments are required as soon as possible. Theories and therapies from various traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) academic groups have been widely reported. Therefore, an exploration of prevention and protection methods should consider TCM experiences as an alternative. This article primarily reviews TCM herbal therapies and external therapies that have been described in various clinical reports and demonstrated in relevant studies. Herbal therapies, including herbal formulas, Chinese patent medicines (CPMs), single Chinese herbs, and associated extracts or monomers, are summarized based on the shared perspectives of the underlying mechanisms from TCM. In addition, external therapies including acupuncture, bloodletting, cupping, Gua sha and Tui na that have rarely been rarely mentioned and considered in most cases, are introduced and discussed to offer a unique perspective in the search for novel interventions for HS. In summary, TCM may provide abundant potential clinical benefits and research directions in the fight against HS.
The impact of self-perceived burden, caregiver burden, and dyadic coping on negative emotions in colorectal cancer patient-spousal caregiver dyads: a dyadic analysis
Authors: Chen Xuan , Wang Zhiming , Zhou Junrui , Lin Chunyan , Luo Huamin , Zhao Jie , Loke Alice Yuen , Li Qiuping
Published: September 2023

Objective

To explore the correlation between dyadic coping, self-perceived burden, caregiver burden, and anxiety/depression in colorectal cancer patient-spousal caregiver dyads.

Methods

This study surveyed 200 colorectal cancer patient-spousal caregiver dyads from August 2022 to December 2022. It evaluated self-perceived burden (only for patients), caregiver burden (only for spousal caregivers), dyadic coping, anxiety, and depression. It analyzed data through Pearson’s correlation and the actor–partner interdependence mediation model.

Results

Self-perceived burden and caregiver burden were significantly associated with the anxiety/depression of both individuals in colorectal cancer patient-spousal caregiver dyads; patients’ dyadic coping was associated with self-perceived burden and caregiver burden; caregivers’ dyadic coping was only associated with patients’ dyadic coping and depression. There was an actor–partner mediating effect of self-perceived burden between dyadic coping and anxiety/depression, but there was only a partner-mediating effect of caregiver burden between dyadic coping and anxiety/depression.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the interrelationship between self-perceived burden, caregiver burden, dyadic coping, anxiety, and depression. Self-perceived burden and caregiver burden mediated the relationship between dyadic coping and anxiety/depression in colorectal cancer patient-spousal caregiver dyads. This suggests dynamic interventions for self-perceived burden and caregiver burden can be implemented to improve anxiety/depression in both partners based on maintaining healthy dyadic coping between colorectal cancer patient-spousal caregiver dyads.
Childhood trauma and suicide risk in hospitalized patients with schizophrenia: the sequential mediating roles of pandemic related post-traumatic stress symptoms, sleep quality, and psychological distress
Authors: Xie Min , Zou Xuemin , Xie Yingjing , Hu Li , Tang Yiguo , Cai Jai , Kuang Yunxue , Zhu Ling , Zou Min , Wang Qiang
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Stressful global situation due to the COVID-19 pandemic caused a tremendous impact on mental health in hospitalized patients with schizophrenia. The mediating roles of psychological impact related to COVID-19, sleep quality, and psychological distress were investigated in the association between childhood trauma and suicidal risk in hospitalized patients with schizophrenia.

Methods

We analyzed cross-sectional data of 147 patients with schizophrenia and 189 healthy controls (HCs).

Results

Histories of childhood trauma and schizophrenia were good predictors of COVID-19-related psychological impact, global sleep quality, and psychological distress. Moreover, the series mediation model showed that the effect of childhood trauma on suicidal risk in hospitalized patients with schizophrenia was totally sequential mediated by the psychological impact of COVID-19, sleep quality, and psychological distress.

Conclusion

Clinicians need to recognize the increased suicidal risk associated with COVID-19-related psychological distress in schizophrenia patients with a history of childhood trauma.
Research on the collaborative evolution process of information in public health emergencies based on complex adaptive system theory and social network analysis: a case study of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Lv Kun , Luo Xingyu , Shan Jiaoqiao , Guo Yuntong , Xiang Minhao
Published: September 2023

Introduction

This review aimed to elucidate the significance of information collaboration in the prevention and control of public health emergencies, and its evolutionary pathway guided by the theory of complex adaptive systems.

Methods

The study employed time-slicing techniques and social network analysis to translate the dynamic evolution of information collaboration into a stage-based static representation. Data were collected from January to April 2020, focusing on the COVID-19 pandemic. Python was used to amass data from diverse sources including government portals, public commentary, social organizations, market updates, and healthcare institutions. Post data collection, the structures, collaboration objectives, and participating entities within each time slice were explored using social network analysis.

Results

The findings suggest that the law of evolution for information collaboration in public health emergencies primarily starts with small-scale collaboration, grows to full-scale in the middle phase, and then reverts to small-scale in the final phase. The network’s complexity increases initially and then gradually decreases, mirroring changes in collaboration tasks, objectives, and strategies.

Discussion

The dynamic pattern of information collaboration highlighted in this study offers valuable insights for enhancing emergency management capabilities. Recognizing the evolving nature of information collaboration can significantly improve information processing efficiency during public health crises.
Can in vitro embryo production be estimated from semen variables in Senepol breed by using artificial intelligence?
Authors: Campanholi Suzane Peres , Garcia Neto Sebastião , Pinheiro Gabriel Martins , Nogueira Marcelo Fábio Gouveia , Rocha José Celso , Losano João Diego de Agostini , Siqueira Adriano Felipe Perez , Nichi Marcílio , Assumpção Mayra Elena Ortiz D'Avila , Basso Andréa Cristina , Monteiro Fabio Morato , Gimenes Lindsay Unno
Published: September 2023

Thoroughly analyzing the sperm and exploring the information obtained using artificial intelligence (AI) could be the key to improving fertility estimation. Artificial neural networks have already been applied to calculate zootechnical indices in animals and predict fertility in humans. This method of estimating the results of reproductive biotechnologies, such as in vitro embryo production (IVEP) in cattle, could be valuable for livestock production. This study was developed to model IVEP estimates in Senepol animals based on various sperm attributes, through retrospective data from 290 IVEP routines performed using 38 commercial doses of semen from Senepol bulls. All sperm samples that had undergone the same procedure during sperm selection for in vitro fertilization were evaluated using a computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) system to define sperm subpopulations. Sperm morphology was also analyzed in a wet preparation, and the integrity of the plasma and acrosomal membranes, mitochondrial potential, oxidative status, and chromatin resistance were evaluated using flow cytometry. A previous study identified three sperm subpopulations in such samples and the information used in tandem with other sperm quality variables to perform an AI analysis. AI analysis generated models that estimated IVEP based on the season, donor, percentage of viable oocytes, and 18 other sperm predictor variables. The accuracy of the results obtained for the three best AI models for predicting the IVEP was 90.7, 75.3, and 79.6%, respectively. Therefore, applying this AI technique would enable the estimation of high or low embryo production for individual bulls based on the sperm analysis information.
Evaluation of the Reproductive Toxicity of Fluopimomide in Meloidogyne incognita and Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Liu Bingjie , Liu Huimin , Zhang Siqi , Ji Xiaoxue , Zhang Shouan , Wang Zhongtang , Qiao Kang
Published: September 2023

Fluopimomide is a new pesticide that is widely applied in agriculture; however, the effects and molecular mechanisms of fluopimomide in inhibiting nematode reproduction remain unknown. In this study, the effects of fluopimomide on the development and infection of Meloidogyne incognita and the reproductive toxicity in Caenorhabditis elegans were evaluated. Results showed that, in comparison to inoculated control, fluopimomide at 0.33, 0.67, and 1.0 mg/kg soil significantly (p < 0.05) delayed M. incognita development and decreased the reproduction in pot experiments. Fluopimomide notably reduced the galls index with a control effect of 78.6%, 67.9%, and 50.0%, respectively. In addition, a dose–response relationship existed between the brood size and germ cell number of C. elegans and fluopimomide concentrations. Compared with the control group, fluopimomide at 1.0 and 5.0 mg/L notably (p < 0.001) increased the number of cell corpses per gonad in the N2 strain of C. elegans by 8.8- and 14.4-fold, respectively. The number of cell corpses per gonad was similar between the fluopimomide treated worms and the control group in mutants of ced-3, ced-4, and ced-9. Further evidence revealed fluopimomide significantly enhanced the expression of cep-1, egl-1, and clk-2, while no obvious effects were observed in their mutants. Taken together, these results indicated that fluopimomide inflicted DNA damage and induced the core apoptosis pathway caused by germ-cell apoptosis, leading to the reduction of the brood size of C. elegans.
A Predictive Study on the Content of Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG) in Yunnan Large Leaf Tea Trees Based on the Nomogram Model
Authors: Wang Baijuan , Yang Chunhua , Zhang Shihao , He Junjie , Deng Xiujuan , Gao Jun , Li Lei , Wu Yamin , Fan Zongpei , Xia Yuxin , Guo Qicong , Yuan Wenxia , Wang Yuefei
Published: September 2023

To explore the changes in epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) content in tea under abiotic stress conditions, we collected tea samples, along with corresponding soil and altitude data, and utilized the measured data for single-factor analysis. At the same time, the LASSO regression method, which is rarely used in agriculture, was employed to screen modeling factors, a prediction model was established, and the Akaike information criterion (AIC) was introduced to compare the goodness of fit. The results show that LASSO screening reduced the AIC value of the model by 13.8%. The average area under the curve of the training set and the validation set was 0.81 and 0.76, respectively, and the calibration curve also showed good consistency. Based on the nomogram model, a visual prediction system was developed, and the content prediction curve was introduced for detailed soil evaluation. The accuracy rate reached 75% after external verification. This study provides a theoretical basis for elucidating the prediction and intervention of Pu’er tea quality under abiotic stress conditions.