bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Empirical Model of Soft Bellows Actuator
Authors: Qiu Zhe , Zhang Shengyang , Xue Yitong , Mori Yoshiki , Hirai Shinichi , Kawamura Sadao , Wang Zhongkui
Published: July 2024

Soft robotics has emerged as a highly promising field, particularly for handling interactions in unstructured environments such as food factories and agricultural warehouses. This potential is largely attributed to the inherent flexibility and compliance of soft robots. A critical aspect in the development of these robots lies in the selection and utilization of appropriate soft actuators and materials. Nevertheless, the modeling of soft robots presents considerable challenges owing to their intricate properties and continuum nature. In this article, we focus on the design and modeling of a three dimensional (3D) printed soft bellows actuator. The primary objective is to assess its efficacy in creating suitable soft grippers for handling various practical products. We propose an empirical model to predict the output forces of the soft bellows actuator. This model comprehensively integrates parameters such as bellows geometry and material properties, thereby providing valuable insights for the actuator’s design and control. To ascertain the precision of our model, we conducted a series of finite element (FE) simulations considering different designed parameters of the bellows, and performed experimental validations using 3D printed bellows actuators. The empirical model demonstrated high accuracy in predicting the output forces of the bellows actuator, with average absolute and relative errors of 1.35 N and 10%, respectively. As an application, a robotic gripper with two parallel bellows actuators was developed, and its grasping force was validated using the empirical model. Building on this, a robotic gripper incorporating three bellows actuators was designed and fabricated based on the empirical model, and high-speed pick-and-place experiments were effectively conducted for handling a range of products.
Quality of Life and Supportive Care Needs in Prostate Cancer: The Impact of Treatment Choices and Care Service Utilization
Authors: Xiao Hui , Baxter G. David , Liu Lizhou , Hoeta Tobias , Wibowo Erik
Published: July 2024

Background
Prostate cancer treatment can lead to significant long-term side effects that impact patients’ quality of life and supportive care needs (SCN). This study explores the associations between quality of life (QoL) and SCN among prostate cancer survivors, with a focus on the impact of treatment choices, care service utilization, and the differences between Māori and non-Māori patients.
Methods
Random stratified sampling data were collected from 1,075 prostate cancer survivors who were diagnosed within the past five years. Hierarchical regression analyses examined the associations between QoL domains and SCN, adjusting for demographic, clinical, and treatment-related factors. LASSO (Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator) was used to select variables to test the interaction effects of different treatments.
Results
Significant disparities were found between Māori and non-Māori patients in physical and mental health scores, care service utilization, and overall SCN. Māori men had lower scores in these areas. Most QoL domains were negatively associated with more SCN, particularly mental health and hormonal issues. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) exacerbates some negative effects of poor mental health and hormonal issues for non-Māori, while the use of care services and radical prostatectomy were associated with mitigating SCN for Māori patients.
Conclusion
This study highlights the complex interplay between QoL, SCN, and treatment modalities among prostate cancer survivors in New Zealand. The findings underscore the need for culturally tailored supportive care services to address the unique needs of Māori patients.
Association between lean body mass and osteoarthritis: a cross-sectional study from the NHANES 2007-2018
Authors: Lu Hongrui , Zhuang Zifan , Wang Gengjian , Zhang Mengyun , Yang Chang , Wang Dongyan
Published: July 2024

Background
The prevention of osteoarthritis through controlling body measurements has received increasing attention in recent years, but the relationship between lean body mass (LBM) and osteoarthritis remains unclear. Hence, we used large-scale data to explore this association.
Methods
To explore the correlation between LBM and osteoarthritis, we utilized logistic regression equations to explore associations between covariates, exposures, and outcomes. We used multivariate regression models to further eliminate confounding factors. Restricted cubic splines were employed to investigate non-linear relationships. And the inflection point was identified by recursive algorithm. Furthermore, stratified analyses of gender and age were conducted.
Results
Osteoarthritis was negatively correlated with LBM [0.74 (0.67, 0.80)] in the model adjusting for all confounders. A further linear trend test was performed, and the OR (95% CI) were 0.72 (0.61, 0.85), 0.54 (0.44, 0.65), and 0.45 (0.36, 0.56) for Q2, Q3, and Q4, respectively, compared with Q1. Based on the restricted cubic spline curve, an inflection point of 52.26 kg was found to confirm the non-linear relationship. LBM was negatively correlated with osteoarthritis at 0.66 (0.50, 0.86) before the inflection point, and the association was not statistically significant afterward.
Conclusion
This large-scale study revealed that LBM was non-linearly correlated with osteoarthritis in the general American population. Differences in age and gender were further identified.
Study for the hydrogen evolution reaction of doped carbon paste composite electrodes with multinuclear Ag(I) complexes based on nitrogen heterocyclic ligand
Authors: Wu Huilu , Dou Zilin , Xie Yueyue , Huang Nannan , Liu Zhaolong , Gao Wei
Published: July 2024

Two Ag(I) complexes, [Ag3(L)3(BTC)]·3C2H5OH (1) [Ag2(L)2(TPA)]·2H2O (2) (L = 1,3-bis[(N-methylbenzimidazole)methylene]-2-aniline, H3BTC = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylic acid, H2TPA = terephthalic acid ) were synthesized and characterized by elemental analysis, IR, UV-visible spectroscopy and X-ray single crystal diffraction. Structural analysis shows that the two complexes are trinuclear fan-shaped and binuclear central symmetric structures respectively. Linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) were used to study the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) characteristics of two complexes modified carbon paste electrodes (CE-1 and CE-2) in 0.5M H2SO4 electrolyte. The research results indicate that the overpotential (η10293 K) of CE-1 and CE-2 showed a positive shift of 203 and 319 mV compared to CE (without complex, 965 mV), and Tafel slopes (b293 K) are 193 and 175 mV·dec-1, respectively. The above results manifest that CE-1 and CE-2 have a good electrocatalytic effect on HER and CE-2 is significantly better than CE-1, which is attributed to the greater deformability of the silver(I) ion coordination environment in complex 2. The above conclusions provide a theoretical basis for the application of Ag(I) complexes in the electrochemical field.
Characteristics of the fundus and optical coherence tomography angiography metrics in patients with myelinated retinal nerve fibers
Authors: Yang Weiming , Wei Ruoyan , Zhang Chi , Huang Chen , Lin Feng , Shen Yang , Yang Chenhao , Zhou Xingtao , Li Meiyan
Published: July 2024

AIMS
To investigate the fundus characteristics and macular OCTA metrics in patients with MRNFs and to identify the associations among myopic parameters, fundus metrics, and OCTA metrics
METHODS
The single-center case-control study included 15 patients with monocular MRNFs and 15 patients without MRNFs, matched for age, affected eyes’ spherical equivalent error (SER), and axial length (AL) between May 2021 and December 2021. Fundus features, including the entire MRNF area (Area1), the denser MRNF area (Area2), and the shortest distance from the fovea to the MRNF border (Df−m), along with ocular parameters, including SER, AL, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and OCTA metrics at the fovea, including choroidal (ChT) and retinal (ReT) thicknesses at the fovea, the foveal avascular zone area (FAZ), foveal avascular zone perimeter (FAZP), FAZ-circularity index (FAZ-CI), and foveal vessel density in a 300-µm wide region (FD-300), were assessed.
RESULTS
The SER, AL, and CDVA were significantly worse and the ChT was thinner in the affected eyes than in the contralateral eyes. Compared with matched eyes, affected eyes had worse CDVA and thinner ReT. In the affected eyes, both Area1 and Area2 were negatively correlated with SER (r1 = -0.84, r2 = -0.65), △SER (r1 = -0.86, r2 = -0.61), ReT at the vertical superior 3 mm (VS) (r1 = -0.78, r2 = -0.67), and ChT_VS (r1 = -0.64, r2 = -0.62), and positively correlated with AL (r1 = 0.82, r2 = 0.52) and CDVA (r1 = 0.54, r2 = 0.59). Df−m was negatively correlated with CDVA (r = -0.57).
CONCLUSION
The presence of MRNFs affects CDVA and ReT at the fovea. The area of the MRNFs, as well as the distance from the MRNFs to the fovea, are closely associated with the affected eyes’ CDVA, SER, AL, and the degree of anisometropia.
COVID-19 vaccine implementation in a syringe services program: Experiences of frontline staff
Authors: Plesons Marina , Sugar Sabrina Soto , Chimbaru Rutendo , McDonald Giuliano , Friedman Lily , Thompson Ernest , Bazzi Angela R. , Tookes Hansel E. , Bartholomew Tyler S.
Published: July 2024

Background
Despite people with substance use disorders, including people who inject drugs (PWID), experiencing increased risk for COVID-19 infection and adverse outcomes, COVID-19 vaccination rates among PWID are consistently lower than those observed in the general population. Offering COVID-19 vaccines at syringe services programs (SSPs) has been proposed as a critical strategy to increase vaccine uptake among this population. We explored the experiences of frontline staff members at an SSP in Miami, Florida implementing onsite COVID-19 vaccines.
Methods
Between June and July 2022, we conducted in-depth semi-structured interviews with 18 staff members of a local SSP in Miami, Florida. Data collection and codebook thematic analysis of transcribed interviews drew from the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), with key findings aligning with major CFIR domains.
Results
Facilitators and barriers of COVID-19 vaccine implementation at the SSP aligned with all major CFIR domains. Key facilitators included the SSP’s established partnership with the local health department for vaccine distribution, its existing funding sources (which could be leveraged for vaccine-related expenses), consensus among staff about the need for new strategies to increase vaccine uptake among PWID, and PWID’s trust in the SSP. Major—but largely modifiable—barriers included lack of participant compensation, limited internal collaboration and communication regarding the vaccine initiative beyond implementation leads and innovation deliverers due to competing priorities and segmented roles and responsibilities, and insufficient involvement of the most participant-facing staff (i.e., the SSP’s peer navigators and outreach workers).
Conclusions
Implementing onsite COVID-19 vaccine was feasible and acceptable at the SSP, however contextual factors impeded optimal implementation. Implementation required multilevel strategies, such as participant compensation for vaccine completion and internal educational meetings with staff to improve vaccine implementation and reach. As a culturally competent and trusted source of preventative services for PWID, SSPs are an underutilized venue for increasing vaccine uptake for this population, and findings from this study could inform the expansion of low-barrier vaccine services at SSPs nationwide.
Intratesticular creatine maintains spermatogenesis by defining tight junctions
Authors: Kuribayashi Sohei , Fukuhara Shinichiro , Kitakaze Hiroaki , Tsujimura Go , Imanaka Takahiro , Ueda Norichika , Takezawa Kentaro , Ikawa Masahito , Nonomura Norio
Published: July 2024

One in five couples who wish to conceive is infertile, and half of these couples have male infertility. However, the causes of male infertility are still largely unknown. Creatine is stored in the body as an energy buffer, and the testes are its second-largest reservoir after muscles. Further, even though intratesticular creatine levels have long been known to decrease in male patients with infertility, its role in the testis is unknown. We investigated the intratesticular role of creatine, specifically in the context of the creatine synthesizing enzyme Gamt, and the creatine transporter Slc6a8. The Slc6a8 knockout mice showed no abnormalities in spermatogenesis. While Gamt knockout mice formed spermatozoa, they demonstrated reduced sperm count and decreased sperm motility and fertilization rate. Additionally, intratesticular creatine in Gamt knockout mice was significantly decreased, resulting in the disruption of tight junctions, which could be rectified by creatine supplementation, as was evidenced by the improved sperm count and fertilization rate in these mice. In conclusion, we identified creatine as being required for the maintenance of the tight junction in the testis.
Characterization of Enzymatically Modified Cellulose Obtained From the From the Cocoa Pod Husk (Cph) Theobroma Cacao L. Clone Ccn51
Authors: Sepúlveda Diana Carolina Meza , Valencia Katalina Ángel , Morales Mónica María Quintero , Sepúlveda Lucia Constanza Vasco , Saavedra Jorge Iván Quintero
Published: July 2024

Water interactions with cellulose, hemi- cellulose, and Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L.) processing generates by-products such as shells, husks, placenta and leachates that cause environmental and phytosanitary problems. The husk is a lignocellulosic material composed mainly of cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin, which can be used to produce coproducts useful at the industrial level. The objective of this research was to characterize the enzymatically modified cellulose obtained from cocoa pod husk (CPH) Clone CCN51. For this purpose, physicochemical analyses such as pH, ethereal extract, ash, moisture, crude fiber and water retention were carried out to establish the differences and/or similarities presented with respect to a commercial cellulose, thus making it possible to establish its possible agroindustrial use. The results revealed that in the transformation process of the raw material by the action of the Celluclast 1.5 L enzyme, a yield of 29% was obtained. Likewise, significant differences were evidenced in the characterization tests performed between commercial cellulose and modified CPH cellulose, indicating that the latter presents better conditions for industrial uses, such as the production of bioplastic films.
Micro-enema prior to prostate MRI reduces rectal gas and gas-related artefacts improving image quality
Authors: Palmer Jacob , Winata Leon , Seale Melanie , Sutherland Tom , Page Mark
Published: July 2024

Purpose
There are conflicting results in the literature regarding bowel preparation prior to prostate Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and its effect on image quality. Our aim was to determine whether the administration of a micro-enema immediately prior to MRI is associated with a reduction in rectal gas, gas related artefacts and an improvement in image quality.
Method
This retrospective analysis enrolled 171 patients who underwent multiparametric 3T prostate MRI at our institution between January 2021 and September 2022. 86 patients received a micro-enema, and a further 85 patients did not. Two fellowship trained abdominal radiologists were blinded and independently reviewed each prostate MRI, recording scores on a dedicated scoring sheet. The quality of T2 weighted (T2W), diffusion weighted (DWI), and dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) images were assessed according to standardised scales supported in the literature. In addition, gas related artefacts and rectal gas level were examined. An independent-samples Mann-Whitney U Test was performed, comparing the median score between micro-enema and no micro-enema groups. Spearman’s correlation was used to determine the strength of relationship between variables. A quadratic weighted Cohen’s Kappa and percent agreement were used to assess inter-observer agreement.
Results
Image quality was improved in those who received the micro-enema compared to those who did not according to the visual grading scale on the DWI sequence (median score 5 vs 4, p = < 0.001). PI-QUAL score and visual grading score for both the T2W and DCE images was not significantly different. Rectal gas level was lower in patients who received the micro-enema (median score 1 vs 3, p < 0.001), correlating with a lower score for gas-related artefacts (1 vs 2, p < 0.001) in this group. Correlation between rectal gas level and gas-related artefacts on DWI regardless of whether a micro-enema was given was strong (rs = 0.707, p < 0.001). Correlation was moderate to strong between rectal gas level and image quality on DWI (rs = -0.626, p < 0.001). There was only 1 (1.2%) borderline diagnostic or non-diagnostic DWI sequence in those who received the micro-enema, compared to 9 (10.6%) in those who did not (p = 0.009). Interobserver agreement was moderate for image quality on DWI, gas related artefacts and rectal gas level (weighted kappa values of 0.518, 0.488 and 0.525 respectively).
Conclusions
The administration of a micro-enema prior to prostate MRI is associated with a significant improvement in image quality on the DWI sequence. This is mediated through a reduction in rectal gas and gas related artefacts.
Creation of a replicable anatomic model of terrible triad of the elbow
Authors: BALTASSAT Antoine , BALDAIRON Florent , BERTHE Samuel , BELLIER Alexandre , BAHLOULI Nadia , CLAVERT Philippe
Published: July 2024

Background: Terrible triad of the elbow (TTE) is a complex dislocation associating radial head (RH) and coronoid process (CP) fractures. There is at present no reproducible anatomic model for TTE, and pathophysiology is unclear. The main aim of the present study was to create and validate an anatomic model of TTE. Secondary objectives were to assess breaking forces and relative forearm rotation with respect to the humerus before dislocation.Methods: An experimental comparative study was conducted on 5 fresh human specimens aged 87.4 ± 8.6 years, testing 10 upper limbs. After dissection conserving the medial and lateral ligaments, interosseous membrane and joint capsule, elbows were reproducibly positioned in maximal pronation and 15° flexion, for axial compression on a rapid (100 mm/min) or slow (10 mm/min) protocol, applied by randomization between the two elbows of a given cadaver, measuring breaking forces and relative forearm rotation with respect to the humerus before dislocation.Results: The rapid protocol reproduced 4 posterolateral and 1 divergent anteroposterior TTE, and the slow protocol 5 posterolateral TTE. Mean breaking forces were 3,126 ± 1,066 N for the lateral collateral ligament (LCL), 3,026 ± 1,308 N for the RH and 2,613 ± 1,120 N for the CP. Comparing mean breaking forces for all injured structures in a given elbow on the rapid protocol found a p-value of 0.033. Comparison of difference in breaking forces in the three structures (LCL, RH and CP) between the slow and rapid protocols found a mean difference of -4%. Mean relative forearm rotation with respect to the humerus before dislocation was 1.6 ± 1.2° in external rotation.Conclusions: We create and validate an anatomic model of TTE by exerting axial compression on an elbow in 15° flexion and maximal pronation at speeds of 100 and 10 mm/min.
A justified plan graph analysis for identifying the genotype of Tibetan houses in Ganzi County
Authors: Lei Zhe. , Li Junhuan.
Published: July 2024

A significant number of traditional houses remain in Tibetan-populated areas of western China, such as Ganzi County, which has an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters. In this study, eight houses from different historical periods in Ganzi County were analyzed by using the justified plan graph (JPG) method. Through a combination of graphical and mathematical analysis, this study identifies the spatial genotypes of these houses and analyzes the connectivity patterns and privacy of each space in the houses. This paper attempts to reveal the socio-cultural logic implicit in the houses from a scientific perspective and to provide a reliable framework for future design of post-disaster reconstruction or rehabilitation in this area.
Diagnostic Value of Combination of ThinPrep Imaging System with Manual Screening in 257,047 Cases of Cervical Cancer Screening by Thinprep Cytologic Test
Authors: Liu Yiyao , Fangfang Liu , Jingjing Zhao , Huiting Zhu
Published: July 2024

Objective: To analyze the diagnostic value of manual screening in combination with ThinPrep Imaging System (TIS) versus manual screening alone in cytology screening of cervical cancer.
To compare positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) for cervical high-grade disease.
Methods: A total of 257,047 cases dated from June 2015 to December 2021 were tested by ThinPrep cytologic test (TCT) retrospectively by West area of Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital. Among them, 125,917 cases were interpreted by manual screening in combination with TIS (TIS group) and 131,130 cases were interpreted by manual screening (manual screening group). Atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASCUS) and the above lesions were listed as cytologically positive cases that may have high-grade and above lesions, of which HSIL + SCC + AIS + IAC are cytologically positive cases with clear high-grade and above lesions. Low-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions (LISL) and above lesions were listed as histologically positive cases. of which HSIL + SCC + AIS + IAC are histologically high-grade disease (HGD). Based on the results of the pathological tissue biopsy, positive and negative predictive value of the two groups were analyzed and compared.
Results: Among 125,917 patients in the TIS group, 21,959 patients underwent colposcopy and cervical pathological biopsy. Compared with the manual screening group, the interpretation proportion of ASCUS in TIS group was significantly decreased (P < 0. 05). Manual screening in combination with TIS can significantly improve positive and negative predictive value of ASCUS, ASC-H, LSIL, HSIL and AGC-FN, not AGC-NOS.
Conclusions: TCT by manual screening in combination with TIS has a high predictive accuracy for early low-grade and high-grade cervical cancer lesions. TIS in combination with manual screening can significantly reduce the interpretation rate of ASCUS, and the false negative rate in TCT, and TIS in combination with manual screening can increase the interpretation rate of precancerous cervical lesions.
Characteristics of the evolution of vegetation NPP in Nanchang and spatial and temporal driver analyses
Authors: Li Jiatong , Wu Hua , Xu Yue , Guo Qiyun , Li Huishan , Zhou Jianwei , Chen Linna
Published: July 2024

In order to determine the evolution characteristics of net primary productivity of vegetation in Nanchang City and the main driving factors influencing its spatiotemporal evolution, based on the ArcGIS and Matlab platforms, ReliefF, Random Forest (RF),BP neural network, GRNN machine learning algorithm and geographic detector were used to quantitatively evaluate the evolution characteristics and spatiotemporal driving factors of Nanchang City from 1998 to 2015.The results show: 1) From a temporal perspective, NPP overall shows a fluctuating upward trend with distinct seasonal variations; spatially, it follows a distribution pattern of higher values in the middle and lower values around the edges; 2) The ReliefF algorithm has the highest fitting accuracy and is more suitable for regression analysis of NPP, with both algorithms indicating that air temperature and precipitation have the most significant impact on NPP evolution; 3) According to the results of the geographic detector, the NPP in Nanchang City is most significantly influenced by precipitation factors spatially, while the temporal dimension is dominated by human factors. In-depth study of the evolution characteristics of NPP can provide a scientific basis for quantifying the health of regional ecosystems and the balance of the ecological environment under the background of climate change.
Why lightweight climate models are useful tools for assessing aviation mitigation strategies and moving beyond the CO2-equivalence metrics debate
Authors: Planès Thomas , Arriolabengoa Sara , Mattei Philippe , Cariolle Daniel , Delbecq Scott
Published: July 2024

Assessing mitigation strategies for aviation is a critical issue for the aviation ecosystem stakeholders, while the debate continues on the most appropriate CO2-equivalence metrics to address non-CO2. This paper proposes two lightweight climate models that can be parameterised to assess these strategies and move beyond the CO2-equivalence metrics debate. A first approach relies on the use of the GWP* method, calibrated in an original manner, for estimating warming equivalent emissions. A second approach employs the FaIR climate emulator. These lightweight models, which should be considered as a new family of climate models for aviation facilitating parametric studies, provide a straightforward and consistent means of evaluating mitigation strategies at the temperature level, bypassing the need for CO2-equivalence metrics for comparing strategies. The latter should rather be used in policy mechanisms to encourage the emergence of strategies (once justified by the climate models), as they are not suitable for assessing temperature changes from aviation. The debate on the choice of CO2-equivalence metrics could then focus on methodological and ethical criteria. Nonetheless, this paper demonstrates that the higher the traffic, the more appropriate it is to choose CO2-equivalence metrics with high values for consistency with temperature estimates.
A Decision Support Application for Patients with Cancer: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Kawasaki Yuko , Nii Manabu , Kiyohara Hana
Published: July 2024

Purpose
To evaluate the usability of a decision support application (app) for patients with cancer.
Methods
Forty-three patients with cancer participated in this study, from June to October 2022. An app that prompted users to choose suitable options to questions from a list of 11 value items was used. The patient value characteristics were displayed as judgment results (radar charts). Afterward, a questionnaire survey was administered using a Web Usability Scale (WUS: 21 items, five-point scale) and free responses.
Results
Five male and 38 female patients (mean age 59 ± 13.1 years) participated in this study. The WUS 7-item values were as follows: favorability, 2.77 ± 1.01; usefulness, 2.45 ± 1.06; reliability, 3.15 ± 0.90; ease of operability, 3.90 ± 0.89; ease of understanding structure, 3.53 ± 0.96; ease of viewing, 2.77 ± 1.22; and responsiveness, 2.57 ± 1.34. Visualizing values through the app allowed patients to understand their current state of mind, realize their values are biased, and gain opportunities to talk with their family. However, direct care was more suitable than care through the app for some patients.
Conclusion
The evaluations obtained in the WUS were good for all factors except “favorability” and “responsiveness.” The free responses suggested that patients who are unable to sort out their complex feelings may have difficulties using the app. The results also suggest that it is necessary to have sufficient intention to use the app for positive results.
Epidemiological and spatial analyses of HIV/AIDS prevalence in Shandong, China from 2016 and 2022: A population-based study
Authors: Li Ling , Zhang Na , Yang Xingguang , Zhu Xiaoyan , Hao Lianzheng , Yu Haiying , Liao Meizhen , Wang Guoyong
Published: July 2024

Objectives
To describe epidemiological and spatial characters of HIV/AIDS in Shandong, China during 2016–2022, and provide scientific reference for HIV prevention.
Methods
Data on HIV/AIDS cases was extracted from the National HIV/AIDS comprehensive response information management system. Spatial analysis were conducted with Kulldorff’s scan statistic.
Results
A total of 19730 HIV/AIDS were reported in Shandong, China during 2016–2022, 69.7% of them were transmitted through homosexual behavior. The proportion of HIV/AIDS aged 50 years and older increased from 13.1–26.7%. Spatial analysis indicated that the HIV clusters were located in urbans areas with higher economic level. The cluster areas of male cases were distributed in urban areas, but the cluster areas of female cases were in the western areas with backward economy. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of newly reported HIV/AIDS decreased, the proportion of patients receiving CD4 + T cell test (CD4) decreased, the proportion of patients receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART) had increased in Shandong, China.
Conclusions
More prevention and education should be done for MSM in urban areas, and women in the western areas to curl the transmission of HIV. The rapidly increasing proportion of elderly HIV/AIDS should be focused on and responded.
Large volumes of microplastics are transported to the deep sea by turbidity currents
Authors: Kane Ian , Chen Peng , Clare Michael , Soutter Euan , Mienis Furu , Wogelius Roy , Keavney Ed
Published: July 2024

Microplastics pervade the global seafloor, yet the mechanisms by which this pollutant is increasingly transported to the deep sea remain unclear. Fast-moving sediment avalanches (called turbidity currents) are hypothesized to efficiently transport microplastics into the deep sea, yet, while inferred from field sampling of the seafloor, this has never been demonstrated outside of a laboratory setting. Here, we provide the first direct field-scale evidence that turbidity currents in submarine canyons not only transport globally-important volumes of mineral and organic matter into the deep sea, but also carry large quantities of anthropogenic particles, including microfibers and microplastic fragments. In-situ hydrodynamic monitoring in the Whittard Canyon (NE Atlantic Ocean), coupled with sampling of the seafloor and material suspended by turbidity currents reveal that even a canyon whose head lies hundreds of kilometers from land acts as an efficient conduit to flush sediment and pollutants from the continental shelf to >3200 m water depth. Frequent and fast turbidity currents supply oxygen and nutrients that sustain deep-sea biodiversity and fishing grounds in, and adjacent to, such submarine canyons. Our results therefore provide the first real-world evidence to confirm that these biodiversity hotspots are co-located with microplastic hotspots, indicating that the >5000 land-detached canyons that incise all of Earth’s submerged continental margins may be important but previously-unproven conveyors of anthropogenic pollution to the deep sea.
Complement-Mediated Enhancement of SARS-CoV-2 Antibody Neutralisation Potency in Vaccinated Individuals
Authors: Mellors Jack , Dhaliwal Raman , Longet Stephanie , Tipton Tom , Consortium OCTAVE , Consortium OPTIC , Barnes Eleanor , Dunachie Susanna , Klenerman Paul , Hiscox Julian , Carroll Miles
Published: July 2024

With the continued emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants and concerns of waning immunity, there is a need for better defined correlates of protection to aid future vaccine and therapeutic developments. Whilst neutralising antibody titres are associated with protection, these are typically determined in the absence of the complement system, which has the potential to enhance neutralisation titres and strengthen correlates with protection in vivo. Here we show that replenishment of the complement system in neutralisation assays can significantly enhance neutralisation titres, with up to an ~83-fold increase in neutralisation of the BA.1.1.529 strain using cross-reactive sera from vaccination against the ancestral strain. The magnitude of enhancement significantly varies between individuals, viral strains (wild-type/VIC01 and Omicron/BA.1), and cell lines (Vero E6 and Calu-3), and is abrogated following heat-inactivation of the complement source. Utilising ACE2 competition assays, we show that the mechanism of action is partially mediated by reducing ACE2-spike interactions. Through the addition of compstatin (a C3 inhibitor) to live virus neutralisation assays, the complement protein C3 is shown to be required for maximum efficiency. These novel findings further our understanding of SARS-CoV-2 immunity and neutralisation, with implications for protection against emerging variants and assessing future vaccine and therapeutic developments.
Selective RNA pseudouridinylation in situ by circular gRNAs in designer organelles
Authors: Schartel Lukas , Jann Cosimo , Wierczeiko Anna , Butto Tamer , Muendnich Stefan , Marchand Virginie , Motorin Yuri , Helm Mark , Gerber Susanne , Lemke Edward A.
Published: July 2024

RNA modifications play a pivotal role in the regulation of RNA chemistry within cells. Several technologies have been developed with the goal of using RNA modifications to regulate cellular biochemistry selectively, but achieving selective and precise modifications remains a challenge. Here, we show that by using designer organelles, we can modify mRNA with pseudouridine in a highly selective and guide-RNA-dependent manner. We use designer organelles based on the principle of phase separation, a central tenet in developing artificial membraneless organelles in living mammalian cells. In addition, we used circular guide RNAs to markedly enhance the effectiveness of targeted pseudouridinylation. Our studies offer spatial engineering by means of optimized RNA editing organelles (OREO) as a complementary tool in using targeted RNA modification to expand potential avenues for future investigation.
A Theoretical Investigation on the New Quaternary MAX-phase Compounds (Zr1-xTix)3AlC2 (where x= 0-1)
Authors: Rached Habib , Ouadha Ismail
Published: July 2024

The physical properties of the (Zr1-xTix)3AlC2
MAX-phase compounds have
been studied using the first-principle plane-wave method in the framework of the DFT
theory. The Perdew-Burke-Ernzerhof parametrization was chosen for the exchange
correlation (XC) energy. The equilibrium ground-state properties of the named
compounds were calculated and compared with the reported experimental and
theoretical data. The stability of our compounds has been analyzed. The electronic
structures were predicted, indicating all our compounds exhibit a metallic behavior.
The mechanical stability and elastic moduli were evaluated from the elastic constants.
The effect of temperature and pressure on Bulk modulus, Debye temperature and heat
capacity have been investigated and discussed in detail. 
University incubators in Ecuador as means of development
Authors: Sanata-Moreira José Ignacio
Published: July 2024

Higher education institutions in Ecuador face significant challenges in aligning their academic programs with the social and economic needs of the country. Graduates often lack the practical skills and strategic thinking needed to build businesses and foster innovation. This study focuses on evaluating the feasibility and potential impact of implementing university incubators at the Eloy Alfaro Lay University of Manabí (Uleam). A mixed methodology was used that combines qualitative and quantitative approaches. First, an exhaustive review of the literature on university incubators was conducted. Then, Uleam was selected as a case study, collecting information on institutional policies and available resources. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with teachers, students and administrators, in addition to applying surveys to a representative sample of students and graduates. Qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed using thematic coding techniques and descriptive and inferential statistical tools. The results indicate that 85.33% of respondents have not participated in an incubator, and 52% have limited knowledge about them. However, 94% showed interest in participating in university incubators. The main barriers identified include complex bureaucratic processes and a lack of knowledge about the creation and operation of incubators.
Distributed Statistical Analyses: A Scoping Review and Examples of Operational Frameworks Adapted to Health Analytics
Authors: Camirand Lemyre Félix , Lévesque Simon , Domingue Marie-Pier , Herrmann Klaus , Ethier Jean-François
Published: July 2024

Background

Data from multiple organizations are crucial for advancing learning health systems. However, ethical, legal, and social concerns may restrict the use of standard statistical methods that rely on pooling data. Although distributed algorithms offer alternatives, they may not always be suitable for health frameworks.

Objective

This study aims to support researchers and data custodians in three ways: (1) providing a concise overview of the literature on statistical inference methods for horizontally partitioned data, (2) describing the methods applicable to generalized linear models (GLMs) and assessing their underlying distributional assumptions, and (3) adapting existing methods to make them fully usable in health settings.

Methods

A scoping review methodology was used for the literature mapping, from which methods presenting a methodological framework for GLM analyses with horizontally partitioned data were identified and assessed from the perspective of applicability in health settings. Statistical theory was used to adapt methods and derive the properties of the resulting estimators.

Results

From the review, 41 articles were selected and 6 approaches were extracted to conduct standard GLM-based statistical analysis. However, these approaches assumed evenly and identically distributed data across nodes. Consequently, statistical procedures were derived to accommodate uneven node sample sizes and heterogeneous data distributions across nodes. Workflows and detailed algorithms were developed to highlight information sharing requirements and operational complexity.

Conclusions

This study contributes to the field of health analytics by providing an overview of the methods that can be used with horizontally partitioned data by adapting these methods to the context of heterogeneous health data and clarifying the workflows and quantities exchanged by the methods discussed. Further analysis of the confidentiality preserved by these methods is needed to fully understand the risk associated with the sharing of summary statistics.
Visual Construction of Mainstream Media’s Fusion Columns under the Perspective of Multimodal Discourse Analysis
Authors: Shuo Zhu
Published: July 2024

In the era of profound media integration, mainstream media has continually innovated while upholding its foundational values and ideology. Leaders Talk, a hallmark of Chinese mainstream “Headline Project”, exemplifies this innovation and embodies the development strategy to “Fill every screen with quality programs”. This program leverages multimodal discourse to enhance visual construction, fostering a unique story dissemination field that aligns with mainstream aesthetics, thereby creating an equitable and approachable media image with significant international influence. Through the lens of multimodal discourse analysis, and by integrating systemic functional linguistics with a multimodal interaction framework, we can dissect the visual construction methods employed in Leaders Talk. This analysis not only elucidates the new communication pathways for mainstream media columns in the context of media integration and multimodality, but also offers novel solutions to elevate the positive value aesthetics of mainstream media. Furthermore, it provides a fresh perspective on enhancing positive value aesthetics and fortifies the theoretical underpinnings of multimodal discourse analysis within visual culture.
Comparison of Chinese and Western News from the Attitude Perspective of Appraisal Theory: A Case Study of Nuclear-Contaminated Discharging Water
Authors: Li Jingru
Published: July 2024

With the process of globalization, news reporting has become an important way for people to learn about the world. News language, as the main carrier of disseminating information, has a distinct social and cultural nature. Since the period of the nuclear-contaminated water discharge, all kinds of news have emerged, which has research value. At present, the research on "nuclear-contaminated water discharge" is in the initial stage, and the research combined with linguistics is rare. In this paper, we take the attitude perspective of the appraisal theory as the theoretical analysis framework, select the related reports of China Daily and BBC as the research corpus, and use the qualitative methods to conduct a comparative analysis to explore the differences in the attitudes and views of the two. The study found that, firstly, there are very rich attitude resources in both news reports, among which appreciation resources are used the most. Second, the use of attitudinal resources in both news reports reflects that different media's evaluations and attitudes toward the same event are influenced by their positions and interests.
Developing and Implementing Electronic Health Record (HER) Alerts to Reduce Inappropriate Antibiotic Prescriptions
Authors: Bhatt Satendra Kumar
Published: July 2024

Abstract: The overprescription of antibiotics is a significant public health issue, contributing to the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria. This study evaluates the effectiveness of Electronic Health Record (HER) alerts in reducing inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions. Conducted in a large urban hospital, the intervention involved developing and implementing HER alerts to prompt clinicians when an antibiotic prescription may be inappropriate. Over a six-month period, we monitored antibiotic prescription patterns, comparing data from the three months prior to the intervention (control period) with the three months post-implementation (intervention period). Data from 500 patient encounters were analysed, with 250 encounters in each period. The primary outcome was the rate of inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions, defined according to established clinical guidelines. During the control period, 45% (113/250) of the prescriptions were deemed inappropriate.
Deep Learning Solutions for Phishing by URL Detection
Authors: Paul M. Robin Raj
Published: July 2024

Abstract: In this digital age, phishing attacks are something that are quite prevalent and are on the rise. This paper explores the various avenues for detecting such kind of attacks which will pave way to mitigating such kinds of attacks in the future. We primarily focused on proving that deep learning methods are much more efficient than traditional machine learning models; for this purpose we are evaluating the performance of a traditional machine learning model namely Naive Bayes and two deep learning models which are Convolutional Neural Networks(CNN) and Recurrent Neural Networks(RNN). The process starts with normalizing the input features and then the categorical data is transformed after which the dataset containing the URLs are loaded and are preprocessed. The performance of the models was evaluated against metrics like Accuracy, Precision, Recall and F1-Score.The end results proved that CNN was able to achieve the optimal performance and was capable of outperforming the other two models. Therefore this paper is of the view that such CNN or Neural Network empowered Models are the only way to mitigate these types of attacks and will also act as a catalyst in developing systems or models that are immune to such kinds of attacks.
Review Paper on Seismic Assessment and Analysis of Typical RCC Structure for Retrofitting
Authors: Dande P. S.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: An increasing number of reinforced concrete structures have reached the end of their service life, either due to deterioration of the concrete and reinforcements caused by environmental factors or due to an increase in applied loads. These deteriorated structures may be structurally deficient or functionally obsolete, and most are now in serious need of extensive rehabilitation or replacement. Strengthening can be used as a cost-effective alternative to the replacement of these structures and is often the only feasible solution. In this study, the main criteria is how to repair a reinforced concrete elements of structures and for this the skills, knowledge, and experience required to repair damaged or deteriorated structures are decidedly different from those required to build new structures.
E-module development using problem-based learning approach to learn data processing in training students' critical thinking
Authors: Nurissamawati Birnida , Yuniawatika Yuniawatika , Mas'ula Siti
Published: July 2024

The research conducted on data processing material in mathematics subjects at the elementary school level identified issues related to the low critical thinking skills of students. The study aimed to create e-modules based on the Problem Based Learning (PBL) model to enhance the critical thinking skills of grade VI students, ensuring validity, practicality, and effectiveness. This research uses the R&D method with the ADDIE model. The validity of the e-module is obtained from expert validation followed by two trials to obtain practicality, and effectiveness obtained from the test. The validity test of the e-module product obtained an average percentage of 92.56%, categorized as very valid. The practicality test obtained an average percentage of 90.39% categorized as very practical and the effectiveness results through normality gain obtained a percentage of 76.33% categorized as effective. Thus, the e-module product is declared valid, practical, and effective and affects critical thinking skills and improvement in learning outcomes. However, the study's limitation lies in the focus on data processing material, separate from thematic learning, suggesting future research should emphasize real-life problems and diverse content to maintain student engagement, alongside schools providing reliable internet access for teaching materials.
Digitalizing History: Development of E-Module for History Learning on the Subject of Japanese Colonialism Period in Indonesia
Authors: Arviansyah Muhammad Reza , Safitri Sani , Syarifuddin Syarifuddin , Alfiandra Alfiandra
Published: July 2024

This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of using e-module teaching materials in history education. This study is development research conducted using direct observation techniques and the distribution of questionnaire surveys to the research location, in this case, SMA Srijaya Negara Palembang. The development of teaching materials was conducted using the Rowntree model, which comprises three stages: planning, development, and evaluation. The criteria utilized included the success rate and students’ achievement in learning activities. The research findings indicate that the utilization of case-based learning e-modules is valid and suitable for history education in classrooms. This is supported by assessments from three validators of the materials, media and language aspects of the e-module, categorized as highly valid (4.4); individual assessments as valid (4.1); and small group assessments as highly valid (4.2). Moreover, there is a noticeable improvement in the students’ learning outcomes, classified as valid (88.0), with an effectiveness score of N-gain reaching 0.80, falling into the high or very effective category.