bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improved Subsidence Assessment for a More Reliable Excavation Activity in Tehran
Authors: Dashti Mahdi , Virág Zoltán
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a particular tunneling method or new Austrian tunneling method (NATM) which plays an important role in reducing the subsidence of the Earth surface and the damage to the structures in urban areas. It has a wide range of applications in shallow tunneling projects all over the world. In this study, numerical modeling of third-line Metro tunnel in Tehran is under discussion which is designed and stabilized by NATM. The foregoing tunnel is excavated manually with a one-meter advancing step. In this project, the constructors used a lattice girder and sprayed concrete with 31 cm thickness as the initial lining. A suitable numerical software for this modeling is Plaxis 3D tunnel, which allows performing high-resolution finite element modeling (FEM) of the studied object. The performance of this method is investigated and compared with other NATM methods. As a result of numerical modeling, we give a value of 30.01 mm earth subsidence in the most damaged area of the settlement, in comparing with that of earth surface monitoring, which confirmed it with a dramatically low difference. Moreover, this tunnel was drilled and excavated with various methods, among which the less settlement has obtained by the proposed method. The results are promising to continue the tunneling with this method to expand the subway line in the city.
Description of Ion Properties Using Molecular Orbital Energy Levels
Authors: Doronin Sergey V.
Published: July 2024

The study reveals correlations between the parameters of ions and their HOMO and LUMO orbital energy level values. In particular, it demonstrates a clear correlation for the ion adsorption parameters on model electrodes: the aluminum oxide (0001) surface, graphene and Au (111) surface. Correlations are also observed for the parameters of ion binding to water and dimethyl carbonate molecules, which are often used as solvents. In addition, the dipole moment, polarizability and solvation energy of ions are well correlated with the values of the molecular orbital energies, and for anions a dependence on the oxidation potential is observed. The obtained descriptors make it possible to select ions with desired values for a specific problem. As an illustrative example, in this work we consider the problem of displacement of water molecules from the inner electric double layer by ions, which is one of the factors increasing the potential window in electrolytes of aqueous batteries. This approach can be applied in the rapidly developing field of aqueous electrolytes for battery or supercapacitor design, catalysis control through surface composition variations, as well as in studies of heavy metal ion binding to sorption materials.
Springs of the Arabian Desert: Hydrogeology and Hydrochemistry of Abu Jir Springs, Central Iraq
Authors: Webb John A. , Jotheri Jaafar , Fensham Rod J.
Published: July 2024

The Arabian Desert is characterised by very low rainfall and high evaporation, yet on its northeastern edge in central Iraq are 210 springs along the Abu Jir lineament, which represents the western depositional margin of a foreland basin infilled by the floodplain sediments of the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers; there is little evidence of faulting. The springs discharge from gently east-dipping Paleocene-Eocene limestones, either where groundwater flowpaths intersect the ground surface or where groundwater flow is forced to the surface by confining aquitards. Calculated annual recharge to the aquifer system across the Arabian Desert plateau (130-500 million m3) is enough to sustain the Abu Jir springs provided groundwater extraction is not excessive. The hydrochemistry of the springs is determined by evaporation, rainfall composition (high SO4 concentrations are due to dissolution of wind-blown gypsum in the rainfall), and plant uptake of Ca and K (despite the sparse vegetation). Limestone dissolution has relatively little impact; many of the springs are undersaturated with respect to calcite and lack tufa/travertine deposits. The springs at Hit-Kubaysa contain tar and high levels of H2S that probably seeped upwards along subvertical faults from underlying oil reservoirs; the presence of hydrocarbons makes the water reducing and converts the dissolved SO4 to H2S.
Alcohol Intake and Prevalent Kidney Stone: The National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2018
Authors: Shringi Sandipan , Raker Christina A. , Chonchol Michel , Tang Jie
Published: July 2024

The association of alcohol intake with kidney stone disease (KSD) is not clear. We examined the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007-2018 and used logistic regression analyses to determine the independent association between alcohol intake and prevalent KSD. 29,684 participants were eligible for the final analysis including 2,840 prevalent stone formers (SF). Mean alcohol intake was 37.0±2.4 g/day among SF compared to 42.7±0.9 among non-SF (p=0.04). Beer [Odds ratio (OR)=0.76, 95% CI: 0.61-0.94, p=0.01] and wine (OR=0.75, 95% CI: 0.59-0.96, p=0.03) intakes were strongly associated with lower odds of prevalent KSD while liquor intake had no association. The effect from beer was dose dependent with an OR of 0.34 (95% CI: 0.20–0.57, p56g/day of beer to non-drinkers. Interestingly, the effect from wine was only significant among participants drinking moderate amount, with an OR of 0.54 (95% CI: 0.36–0.81, p=0.003) compared to non-drinkers. These effects were consistent in spline models. This study suggests that both moderate to heavy beer intake and moderate wine intake are associated with a reduced risk of KSD. Future prospective studies are needed to clarify the causal relationship.
Analysis of Adverse Drug Reactions with Oxaliplatin-Based Hepatic Arterial Infusion Chemotherapy
Authors: Lu Yanqin , Zhang Zhenzhen , Ye Yanrong
Published: July 2024

Objectives: To analyze the clinical characteristics and factors associated with adverse drug reactions (ADR) in liver cancer patients receiving oxaliplatin‐based hepatic arterial infusion chemotherapy (HAIC). Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed on the clinical data of 137 patients with liver cancer who received oxaliplatin‐based HAIC. Changes in baseline characteristics, inflammatory factors, and other laboratory indicators in the no‐ADR and ADR groups were analyzed. Results: The incidence of serious ADR (CTCAE ≥ 3) was 21.9% (30/137). There was no significant difference in the cumulative dose of oxaliplatin between the two groups [157.3 (80.3, 322.4) vs. 206.6 (139.1, 324.2), P=0.161]. The increase in NEUT and IL‐6 was greater in the group treated with ADR than in the group not treated with ADR. Changes in NEUT [4.1 (1.5, 6.2) vs. 2.5 (0.5, 4.9), P=0.045] and changes in NEUTIL‐6 [4.2 (‐0.2, 22.9) vs. 0.8 (‐3.9, 7.7), P=0.026]. TBIL, ALT, AST, ALP, WBC, NEUT, PCT, CRP, TNF, IL‐2R, IL‐6, and IL‐10 were significantly higher after treatment than before in the ADR group (P < 0.05). In contrast, ALB and AFP were decreased. Conclusions: The severe ADR (CTCAE ≥ 3) associated with oxaliplatin‐based HAIC may be closely related to increased inflammatory factors such as NEUT and IL‐6. We should be vigilant for allergic reactions to oxaliplatin and increase monitoring during treatment
Anxiety and Associated Factors Among Chinese Preschool Teachers: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wang Xiaohan , Wongpakaran Tinakon , Pojanapotha Pichaya , Chupradit Priyanut , Leung Kelvin C Y
Published: July 2024

In China, preschool teachers have a significant influence on the development of young children aged 3-6. It is imperative to understand their mental health and the factors associated with it to inform policies, optimize their mental well-being, and support their job performance. This study aimed to investigate the factors contributing to anxiety symptoms among preschool teachers. A sample of 393 Chinese preschool teachers (279 females, 114 males) aged 21-56 completed online questionnaires collecting their socio-demographic and work-related information and assessing anxiety symptoms, interpersonal difficulties, personality traits, perceived stress, resilience, and inner strength. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regression analyses identified significant predictors of anxiety symptoms. The prevalence of anxiety symptoms among the studied cohort was found to be 12.2%. Statistically significant factors positively correlated with anxiety symptoms included objective work-related stress (B=0.149, p
VRChances: An Immersive Virtual Reality Experience to Support Teenagers in Their Career Decisions
Authors: Holly Michael , Weichselbraun Carina , Wohlmuth Florian , Glawogger Florian , Seiser Maria , Einwallner Philipp , Pirker Johanna
Published: July 2024

Choosing a career path is an important decision in a person’s life and forms the basis for their future direction. It impacts the future career and influences financial stability as well as the person’s well-being. Many people struggle to find out what they are interested in and talented in, making it difficult to choose a fitting career path. Therefore, the decision-making process requires careful consideration, self-reflection, and exploring numerous options. While virtual environments provide an effective way to explore different experiences, virtual reality (VR) offers users immersive interactions with simulated 3D environments. This allows the realistic exploration of different job fields in a virtual environment without being physically present. VR 360-degree videos have been shown to significantly increase job interest among students. The ability to review and refine performance makes VR an ideal tool for career skill development as well as career guidance. In this paper, we present a tool that offers young people virtual career guidance through an immersive VR experience. The study investigates the extent to which performing occupational tasks in a virtual environment influences the career perceptions of young adults and whether it enhances their understanding of professions. In total, 23 teenagers and 8 application experts were involved to assess the teenager’s expectations and the potential of the career guidance tool.
The Effect of Glutathione on Recurrence and Progression in Non-Muscle Invasive Bladder Cancer
Authors: Gök Gamze , Küçük Tarık , Cimen Sertac , Gök Alper , Göktuğ Göksel , Erel Özcan , İmamoğlu Muhammet Abdurrahim
Published: July 2024

Background: Glutathione and its related enzymes constitute one of the most important antioxidant defense mechanisms against oxidative stress and cancer formation in the body. Bladder cancer is the second most common urological malignancy after prostate cancer. Oxidative stress plays a significant role in the development and prognosis of bladder cancer. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of glutathione on the prognosis of non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.
Methods: The 98 patients with bladder tumors were those with T1G3 pathology who had undergone intravesical Bacillus Calmette-Guérin therapy, while the 30 controls were healthy individuals with no history of transitional cell carcinoma of the bladder. The 128 participants were divided into four groups: Group 1 comprised 41 patients who did not experience recurrence during follow-up, Group 2 included 28 patients who had recurrent tumors, Group 3 consisted of 29 patients who progressed to muscle-invasive stages, and Group 4 was composed of 30 healthy volunteers. Blood samples were collected from all participants. Glutathione levels were measured, and statistical analysis were performed.
Results: There was a statistically significant difference in reduced glutathione levels among the groups (p < 0.001), attributed to Group 4 exhibiting higher reduced glutathione levels compared to Groups 1, 2, and 3 (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in reduced glutathione levels between Groups 1 and 2, Groups 1 and 3, or Groups 2 and 3 (p > 0.999). Total glutathione levels varied significantly among the groups (p < 0.001), with Group 4 having higher levels than Groups 1, 2, and 3 (p < 0.001). However, there were no significant differences between Groups 1 and 2, Groups 1 and 3, or Groups 2 and 3 in terms of total glutathione levels (p = 0.473, p = 0.747, and p > 0.999, respectively). Regarding oxidized glutathione levels, a significant difference was observed (p < 0.001), with Group 4 showing lower levels than the remaining three groups (p < 0.001). No significant differences were found between Groups 1 and 2, Groups 1 and 3, or Groups 2 and 3 in relation to oxidized glutathione levels (p > 0.999, p = 0.171, and p > 0.999, respectively).
Conclusions: The current study revealed that glutathione is a factor influencing the development of new bladder cancer but did not affect its prognosis. Nevertheless, we recommend that future studies with larger bladder cancer patient cohorts should be conducted to comprehensively determine the effect of glutathione on the prognosis of bladder cancer.
Tractography Insights into Anticipatory Postural Adjustment and Freezing of Gait in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: de Lima-Pardini Andrea C. , Nucci Mariana Penteado , Neves de Oliveira Claudia , Alho Eduardo Joaquim Lopes , Coelho Daniel Boari
Published: July 2024

Freezing of Gait (FoG) is a disabling motor complication in Parkinson’s disease (PD), affecting approximately 50% of advanced PD patients. It is characterized by sudden and transient inability to initiate or maintain walking, leading to falls and reduced quality of life. This study investigates the relationship between white matter integrity and step initiation impairments in FoG. Forty-three PD patients (26 with FoG) underwent diffusion-weighted imaging to assess white matter DTI metrics and kinematic analysis during step initiation tasks. Multiple regression analyses were conducted to explore the connection between white matter tract integrity and step initiation behavior. The multiple regression analysis shows that (1) Right Inferior Longitudinal Fasciculus RD explained 31% of APA duration’s variance; (2) Corpus Callosum Forceps Major explained 25% of the step length's variance. There was a positive correlation between the Right Inferior Longitudinal Fasciculus RD and APA duration and a negative correlation between Corpus Callosum Forceps Major RD and step length. The findings suggest that compromised white matter integrity in RILF and CC contributes to impaired motor control during step initiation in FoG. These regions are critical for inhibitory control and interhemispheric coordination, crucial for APA execution and step length regulation.
Development of a UAV-Based Multi-Sensor Deep Learning Model for Predicting Napa Cabbage Fresh Weight and Determining Optimal Harvest Time
Authors: Park Jong-Hwa , Lee Dong-Ho
Published: July 2024

Accurate and timely prediction of Napa cabbage (Brissica rapa subsp. Perkinensis) fresh weight is crucial for optimizing harvest timing, crop management, and supply chain logistics, contributing to food security and price stabilization. Traditional manual sampling methods are labor-intensive and imprecise. This study addresses this challenge by developing a comprehensive (artificial intelligence) AI-powered model for predicting Napa cabbage fresh weight using unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based multi-sensor data. High-resolution RGB, multispectral, and thermal infrared (TIR) imagery were collected over a Napa cabbage field throughout the 2020 growing season. Various vegetation indices, crop features (vegetation fraction, crop height model), and water stress indi-cators (CWSI) were extracted from the imagery. Three AI algorithms—deep neural network (DNN), support vector machine (SVM), and random forest (RF)—were trained and evaluated, with the DNN model consistently outperforming the others. The DNN model achieved the highest accuracy (R² = 0.86 for training, 0.82 for testing; root mean square error (RMSE) = 0.432 kg for training, 0.465 kg for testing) during the mid-to-late rosette growth stage (DAP 35-42), highlighting this period as crucial for fresh weight estimation due to stable leaf area and well-developed canopy structure. The model tended to underestimate the weight of Napa cabbages exceeding 5 kg, potentially due to limited samples and saturation effects of vegetation indices. However, the overall error rate was less than 5%, demonstrating the feasibility and effectiveness of this approach. Spatial analysis revealed that the model accurately captured the variability in Napa cabbage growth across different soil types and irrigation conditions, particularly reflecting the positive impact of drip irrigation on the sandy loam plot. Bias analysis indicated the DNN model's tendency to overestimate smaller Napa cabbages (2 kg), suggesting areas for future refinement. This study demonstrates the potential of UAV-based multi-sensor data and AI algorithms for accurate and non-invasive prediction of Napa cabbage fresh weight. The developed DNN model offers a promising tool for optimizing harvest timing, improving crop management practices, and en-hancing supply chain efficiency. Future research should focus on refining the model for specific weight ranges and diverse environmental conditions, as well as extending its application to other crops, to further advance precision agriculture and contribute to sustainable food production.
CNN-Optimized Electrospun TPE/PVDF Nanofiber Membranes for Enhanced Temperature and Pressure Sensing
Authors: Ma Ming , Jin Ce , Yao Shu fang , Li Nan , Zhou Hu chen , Dai Zhao
Published: July 2024

Temperature and pressure sensors currently encounter challenges such as slow response times, large sizes, and insufficient sensitivity. To address these issues, we developed tetraphenylethylene (TPE)-doped polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) nanofiber membranes using electrospinning, with process parameters optimized through a convolutional neural network (CNN). We systematically analyzed the effects of PVDF concentration, spinning voltage, tip-to-collector distance, and flow rate on fiber morphology and diameter. The CNN model achieved high predictive accuracy, resulting in uniform and smooth nanofibers under optimal conditions. Incorporating TPE enhanced the hydrophobicity and mechanical properties of the nanofibers. Additionally, the fluorescent properties of the TPE-doped nanofibers remained stable under UV exposure and exhibited significant linear responses to temperature and pressure variations. The nanofibers demonstrated a temperature sensitivity of -0.976 gray value/°C and pressure sensitivity with an increase in fluorescence intensity from 537 a.u. to 649 a.u. under 600 g pressure. These findings highlight the potential of TPE-doped PVDF nanofiber membranes for advanced temperature and pressure sensing applications.
Digital Twins Verification and Validation Approach Through The Quintuple Helix Conceptual Framework
Authors: Perisic Ana , Perisic Branko
Published: July 2024

The concept of Digital Twins has been in the field for a long time, constantly challenging the specification, modeling, design, implementation, and exploitation of complex cyber-physical systems. Despite the various foundations, standards, and platforms in Systems Engineering, there are ongoing challenges with Verification and Validation methodology. This study aims to establish a generic framework that addresses the various aspects of Digital Twinning. The multifaceted nature of the problem requires raising the abstraction level in both the Real (Actual) and Virtual domains, effective dissemination of information resources, and a design inspired by verification and validation. The proposed framework combines the Quintuple Helix model with the Problem and Operational Domains of a Real (Actual) Twin, the Solution and Implementation Domains of a Virtual Twin, and the Execution Domain as the bridge that links them. Verification and Validation dimensions follow the Meta Object Facility abstraction layers (Instance, Model, Meta-model, and Meta-meta-model) mapping over five Helices. Embedding the complexity reduction mechanisms in the proposed framework builds a suite for extendible and verifiable digital twinning in simulation and real-time scenarios.
Islamic accounting standards: historical retrospective, challenges and key players
Authors: Sharairi Mohammad Haroun ,   Al Ain University, Nassar Mohamoud , Ramadan Abdulhadi H. ,   Al Ain University,   Princess Sumaya University of Technology (PSUT)
Published: July 2024

A historical exploration of Islamic Accounting Standards is presented in this paper. The fundamental players’ roles in the emergence and expansion of Islamic accounting standards are also identified. To collect data, documents were examined and key players that are involved in the development of Islamic Accounting Standards were interviewed. It has been determined that the Dubai International Finance Centre (DIFC) primarily sets Islamic Accounting Standards in the UAE. Since the reporting standards and backgrounds of accountants may have global effects beyond their jurisdictions, this study suggests accounting standards setters with differences in the ideological and religious backgrounds should communicate with one another in an era of globalization.
Integrated Dual Lag Screws Have Higher Reoperation Rates for Fixation Failure Than Single Lag Component Cephalomedullary Nails
Authors: Gonzalez Christian A. , Van Rysselberghe Noelle L. , Whittaker Mathew J. , Ngo Daniel , Michaud John B. , Gardner Michael J. ,   the Hip Fracture Nail Study Group
Published: July 2024

Background:

Previous studies comparing reoperation risk between integrated dual lag screw (IDL) and single lag component (SL) cephalomedullary nails (CMNs) in the treatment of intertrochanteric femoral fractures have demonstrated mixed results. The purpose of this study was to assess the rates of reoperation for fixation failure and all-cause reoperation in a large, multi-institutional cohort of patients with an intertrochanteric fracture treated with an IDL or SL CMN. We hypothesized that there would be no difference between the groups with respect to either of the reoperation rates.

Methods:

Adults (≥18 years old) who sustained an intertrochanteric fracture (AO/OTA 31A1 to 31A3) treated with an IDL or SL CMN between January 2014 and May 2021 at 1 of 13 Level-I trauma centers were included. Patients with <3 months of follow-up or pathologic fractures were excluded. Rates of reoperation were compared with use of the chi-square test and multivariable regression, controlling for age, gender, injury mechanism, fracture pattern, and postoperative neck-shaft angle.

Results:

A total of 2,130 patients met the inclusion criteria. The median age was 78 years, and 62.5% of patients were female. The cohort consisted of 287 patients (13.5%) with an IDL CMN and 1,843 patients (86.5%) with an SL CMN. A total of 99 patients (4.6%) had a reoperation of any type, of whom 29 (1.4% of all patients) had a reoperation for fixation failure. Compared with patients with an SL CMN, those with an IDL CMN had higher rates (4.2% versus 0.9%; p < 0.001) and odds (odds ratio [OR], 4.95 [95% confidence interval (CI), 2.29 to 10.69]; p < 0.001) of reoperation for fixation failure as well as higher rates (7.3% versus 4.2%; p = 0.021) and odds (OR, 1.83 [95% CI, 1.10 to 3.06]; p = 0.021) of all-cause reoperation.

Conclusions:

Intertrochanteric femoral fractures treated with an IDL CMN were associated with low but significantly higher rates and significantly higher odds of reoperation for fixation failure and all-cause reoperation compared with those treated with an SL CMN. We suggest caution to surgeons in the use of IDL CMNs for high-risk patients and recommend using SL CMNs for most patients with intertrochanteric femoral fractures.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Horizontal Transverse Isotropy Studied Using Tools for Full-Azimuth Seismic Data Processing and an Advanced Well Logging Complex on the Example of Famennian Deposits of the Yugomashevskoye Field
Authors: Dushin A.S. , Lyubochko A.N. , Krivoshchekov I.S. , Inozemtsev A.N.
Published: July 2024

—This paper presents a solution to the problem of searching for cavernous fractured zones and the zones that determine reservoir heterogeneity in Famennian deposits of one of the licensed sections of the Republic of Bashkortostan. The use of an integrated approach to the study of azimuthal horizontal-transverse isotropy of rocks using wellbore data and modern methods for processing areal seismic data for carbonate deposits associated with the development of organogenic structures is described. The results of using the full-azimuth angular migration technology are obtained. The introduction of high-tech approaches at the research site using full-azimuth seismic data processing, spectral decomposition, AVA/AVAZ inversion, and complex analysis of dynamic properties of the wave field in conjunction with well logging and core data makes it possible to identify the distorted zones of the carbonate reservoir associated with changes in the characteristics of the rock skeleton, the presence of a porous-cavernous-fracture void space and lithological replacement zones, as well as secondary processes, thereby reducing the risks associated with subsequent production drilling.
Probabilistic Photonic Computing with Chaotic Light
Authors: Pernice Wolfram , Brückerhoff-Plückelmann Frank , Borras Hendrik , Klein Bernhard , Varri Akhil , Becker Marlon , Dijkstra Jelle , Brückerhoff Martin , Wright C David , Salinga Martin , Bhaskaran Harish , Risse Benjamin , Fröning Holger
Published: July 2024

Biological neural networks effortlessly tackle complex computational problems and excel at predicting outcomes from noisy, incomplete data, a task that poses significant challenges to traditional processors. Artificial neural networks (ANNs), inspired by these biological counterparts, have emerged as powerful tools for deciphering intricate data patterns and making predictions. However, conventional ANNs can be viewed as "point estimates" that do not capture the uncertainty of prediction, which is an inherently probabilistic process. In contrast, treating an ANN as a probabilistic model derived via Bayesian inference poses significant challenges for conventional deterministic computing architectures. Here, we use chaotic light in combination with incoherent photonic data processing to enable high-speed probabilistic computation and uncertainty quantification. Since both the chaotic light source and the photonic crossbar support multiple independent computational wavelength channels, we sample from the output distributions in parallel at a sampling rate of 70.4 GS/s, limited only by the electronic interface. We exploit the photonic probabilistic architecture to simultaneously perform image classification and uncertainty prediction via a Bayesian neural network. Our prototype demonstrates the seamless cointegration of a physical entropy source and a computational architecture that enables ultrafast probabilistic computation by parallel sampling.
How do Neurotransmitter Pathways contribute to Neuroimaging Phenotypes?
Authors: Ebneabbasi Amir , Ebneabbasi Amir , Afshani Mortaza , Seyed-Ahmadi Arman , Warrier Varun , Bethlehem Richard , Rittman Timothy
Published: July 2024

Neuroimaging could accurately reflect human behaviour in health and disease, but the mechanism by which image-derived phenotypes correspond to neurotransmitter systems remains uncertain. Prior studies have explored spatial correlations between neuroimaging phenotypes and positron emission tomography radiotracers. However, the influence of neurotransmitters goes beyond the receptors/transporters, influencing a wider array of intracellular components as pivotal parts of neurotransmitter pathways. Here, we used unsupervised learning to understand how the brain maps of healthy functon(i.e., magnetoencephalography frequency-specific power) and abnormal structure (i.e., disorder-specific cortical thickness) are closely anchored to underlying neurotransmitter pathways assessed by gene expression data. To do this, we used large-scale datasets of the Human Connectome Project (HCP), Enhancing NeuroImaging Genetics through Meta-Analysis (ENIGMA) and Allen Human Brain Atlas (AHBA). We considered spatial and random gene null models to mitigate false positives. We replicate our analyses using different gene stability thresholds. This analytic approach paves the way for personalised medicine and advanced biomarkers.
Chemical looping synthesis of amines from N2 via iron nitride as a mediator
Authors: Yan Ning , Li Haoyue , Wang Tie , Wang Shifu , Li Xuning , Huang Yanqiang
Published: July 2024

Amines are commonly synthesized through the amination of organooxygenates using ammonia, frequently involving the use of noble metal catalysts. In this study, we present an alternative route to make amines using iron nitride (Fe2.5N) as the nitrogen source. Without any additional catalyst, Fe2.5N reacts with a range of alcohols at 250 °C under 1 or 10 bar H2 to produce amines as major products. Mechanistic investigations indicate that hydrogen activates the nitrogen species within iron nitride, converting them into surface NH and NH2 groups that then react with alcohols to form amines. Building on this foundation, we further demonstrated an iron nitride-mediated chemical looping pathway that utilizes N2 as the nitrogen source to synthesize octylamines. In this process, N2 first reacts with iron to form FexN by a ball-milling method at ambient temperature and 6 bar N2. The as-prepared FexN subsequently reacts with alcohols to yield amines, transferring over 80% of the nitrogen to organic compounds. This looping process proved stable across four cycles.
Predictive Ability of Achilles Tendon Elastography for Frailty in Older Adults
Authors: Ceker Eda , Fadiloglu Ayse , Cataltepe Esra , Sendur Halit Nahit , Allahverdiyeva Seriyye , Varan Hacer Doğan
Published: July 2024

Purpose
The Achilles tendon (AT) is the largest and strongest tendon in the human body, and its elasticity is known to be affected by the aging process. However, the relation between AT stiffness and frailty in older individuals remains uncertain. This study aims to explore the potential of Achilles Tendon Shear Wave Elastography (AT-SWE) as a tool for assessing physical frailty in older adults.
Methods
A total of 148 patients aged 65 years and over were included in this cross-sectional study. Patients with heart failure, AT injury, stroke history, active malignancy, and claudication were excluded. All patients underwent a comprehensive geriatric assessment. Physical frailty assessment was performed with the Fried Frailty Phenotype. Achilles tendon elastography was measured by ultrasound.
Results
The mean age of the participants was 73.8 years and 62.2% were female. 30.4% of the participants were defined as frail. Achilles Tendon Shear Wave Elastography measurements were statistically lower in the frail group (p < 0.05). In the multivariate regression analysis, AT-SWE showed a statistically significant association with frailty independent of age, gender, and chronic diseases (0.987, 0.976–0.999, p value = 0.032). In the ROC curve analysis, the area under the curve for AT-SWE was 0.647 (95% CI, 0.564–0.724, p < 0.01) and the optimum cut-off point was 124.1 kilopascals.
Conclusion
These findings highlight the value of AT-SWE as a non-invasive and objective tool for predicting the risk of frailty in older adults.
A genetic perspective on the recent demographic history of Ireland and Britain
Authors: Shanmugam Ashwini , Merrigan Michael , O'Reilly Seamus , Molloy Anne , Brody Lawrence , Hardiman Orla , McLaughlin Russell , Cavalleri Gianpiero , Byrne Ross , Gilbert Edmund , Bodmer Sir Walter
Published: July 2024

While subtle yet discrete clusters of genetic identity across Ireland and Britain have been identified, their demographic history is unclear. Using genotype data from 6,574 individuals with associated regional Irish or British ancestry, we identified genetic communities by applying Leiden community detection. Using haplotype segments segregated by length as proxy for time, we inferred regional Irish and British demographic histories. For a subset of the Irish communities, we provide genealogical context by estimating the enrichment/depletion of surnames.
Through patterns of haplotype sharing, we find evidence of recent population bottlenecks in Orcadian, Manx and Welsh genetic communities. We observed temporal changes in genetic affinities within and between genetic communities in Ireland and Britain. While structure in Ireland is subtler when compared to British communities, the Irish groups share relatively more short haplotype segments. In addition, using effective population size estimates and levels of haplotype-sharing, we detected varying degrees of genetic isolation in some Irish and British genetic communities across time. Further, we observe a stable migration corridor between north-east Ireland and south-west Scotland while there is a recent migration barrier between south-east and west Ireland. Genealogical analysis of surnames in Ireland reflects history - Anglo-Norman surnames are enriched in the Wexford community while Scottish and Gallowglass surnames were enriched in the Ulster community.
Using these new insights into the regional demographic history of Ireland and Britain across different time periods, we hope to understand the driving forces of rare allele frequencies and disease risk association within these populations.
Smart Buildings: Pioneering Solutions for Climate Change Mitigation
Authors: Ale Taiwo
Published: July 2024

The increase in the demand for buildings to cater to the rising population and urbanization has contributed to extreme climate change due to the continuous emission of greenhouse gases during the construction and operational stages of the building. Therefore, this study seeks to investigate the potential of smart buildings as a tool for combating climate change and mitigating its adverse impacts on the environment. A mixed-methods approach of interview guides, an observation checklist, and a questionnaire were used for this study. A total of ten buildings from various countries were chosen using the purposive sampling approach. Structured interviews and questionnaires were conducted and administered to building industry professionals to understand how smart buildings help mitigate climate change. Findings indicate that smart buildings help keep an eye on energy consumption, thereby lowering the quantity of greenhouse gases released while the building is in use. Also, research shows that the integration of smartness in buildings through material and method use lessens the environmental impact of building construction and operation and contributes to a more sustainable built environment. The research concluded that, due to the increasing climate change, the integration of smartness into our buildings is of utmost importance in addressing climate change and its effects. This will also provide a more sustainable and resilient environment while accommodating future population growth.
Genetically predicted the causal association between circulating inflammatory proteins and sepsis
Authors: Jing Zhaoyi , Song Qingyu , Qi Xianghua , Wang Lei
Published: July 2024

Background
Sepsis is a severe complication originating from an imbalanced host response to infection. Based on previous studies, the protein profile shows crucial participation in sepsis pathology. Observational studies on the relationship of circulating inflammatory proteins with sepsis susceptibility often confront difficulties related to reverse causality and confounding variables. The present study elucidated the potential causal effects of circulating inflammatory proteins on sepsis risk.
Methods
Here, a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted. The genetic instruments associated with inflammatory protein levels were derived using a genome-wide study of protein quantitative trait loci that involved 14,824 individuals based on the Olink Target platform. We then utilized summary data from the UK Biobank database, a large multicenter cohort study of > 500,000 European individuals, to determine the associations of these proteins with sepsis and the related outcomes. The analysis included sepsis, sepsis (under 75 years of age), sepsis (28-day death), and sepsis (28-day death in critical care). Furthermore, the directionality of the results was confirmed using the Steiger test. Sensitivity analysis was carried out to examine the heterogeneity and pleiotropy of the results. Outliers were screened by the MR-PRESSO method.
Results
We identified causal relationships of sepsis with TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL) levels and vascular endothelial growth factor A levels. Sepsis (under 75 years) exhibited a causal relationship with TRAIL levels. Moreover, a causal relationship between sepsis (critical care) and TRAIL levels was also noted. Sepsis (28-day death) showed causal relationships with C-C motif chemokine 19 (CCL19), cystatin D, and TRAIL levels. Finally, sepsis (28-day death in critical care) exhibited a causal relationship with the levels of CCL19 and CCL28.
Conclusion
Our study provides evidence supporting the causal effects of few circulating inflammatory proteins on sepsis prognosis and susceptibility. These findings suggest that therapeutic interventions aimed at modulating these cytokine levels could have potential benefits for sepsis patients. Nonetheless, the validity and generalizability of our results should be confirmed through further research.
Impact of Submarine Groundwater Discharge, Climate Change, and Land Use on Korea’s Coast
Authors: Yoon Yeosang , Jung Hahn Chul
Published: July 2024

The impact of climate change on fresh submarine ground discharge (SGD) variation on the Korean Peninsula challenges coastal regions, making them susceptible to environmental degradation and economic impacts. This study provides the first regional estimates of fresh SGD along the entire coast of the Korean Peninsula from 1980 to 2016, utilizing established water balance methods. Our results indicate that the western and southern coasts of South Korea experience higher fresh SGD rates due to greater net precipitation compared to the North Korean region. The impact of drainage length is evident when examining the East and West coasts. Notably, substantial tidal flats on the West coast, where tidal differences significantly influence high SGD rates, are particularly significant. Climate change affects fresh SGD variation, with South Korea's western and southern coasts showing rising trends in spring and winter, while North Korean coastal watersheds display a consistent increase across all seasons. Our findings highlight the vulnerability of Korean coastal regions to climate change and land use development, affecting 15% of the coastline. Specifically, the increased development and agricultural land in South Korean coastal catchments have exacerbated vulnerability by 38% since 1990, driven by economic growth, population expansion, and shifts in cultivated crops.
Separating CO2 emission from removal targets comes with limited cost impacts
Authors: Merfort Anne , Strefler Jessica , Abrahão Gabriel , Bauer Nico , Luderer Gunnar , Dorndorf Tabea , Kriegler Elmar , Merfort Leon , Edenhofer Ottmar
Published: July 2024

Net-zero commitments have become the central focal point for countries to communicate long-term climate targets. However, to this point it is not clear to what extent conventional emissions reductions and carbon dioxide removal (CDR) will contribute to net-zero. An integrated market for emissions and removals with a uniform carbon price delivers the economically efficient contribution of CDR to net-zero, yet it might not fully internalise sustainability risks of CDR and hence could lead to its overuse. In this study, we explore the implications of separating targets for emission reductions and CDR for global net-zero emissions pathways with the Integrated Assessment Model REMIND. Even though it entails a deviation from the solution of the integrated market, we find that efficiency losses are moderate. Limiting CDR lowers the financial burden for public finance, limits reliance on geologic CO2 storage and leads to lower cumulative emissions, yet this increase in ambition comes at higher total mitigation costs.
Primary Cytoreductive Surgery Versus Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Advanced Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: the Primary Cytoreductive Surgery is Better Than Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Platinum-resistant Patients
Authors: kayan basak ozge , bese tugan , turna hande , ilvan sennur , cebi sukru , acikgoz serdar , aykanat yeliz , makul melike , demirkiran fuat
Published: July 2024

Purpose: We investigated the outcome of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by interval cytoreductive surgery and primary cytoreductive surgery (PCS) in patients with platinum-sensitive or resistant advanced epithelial ovarian cancer.
Materials and methods: The inclusion criteria fit 298 patients who underwent primary cytoreductive surgery (PCS group n=158) or neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT group n=140). Differences in characteristic features, chemotherapy responses, and prognosis were compared.
Results: Although the median DFS was similar between the two groups, the median OS was significantly longer in the PCS (p=0.025). There was no survival advantage between the two groups regarding OS in platinum-sensitive patients. However, OS was significantly longer in platinum-resistant patients who underwent PCS (p=0.011). The rate of complete cytoreduction (R=0) was 47.5% in the PCS and 67.1% in the NACT group (p=0.001). Although DFS and OS advantages were observed in the PCS group in R=0 patients with a residual tumor, no significant difference was noticed between the two groups. The two groups had no OS advantage when platinum-sensitive patients were assessed for residual tumor. Meanwhile, in platinum-resistant patients, R=0 provided OS advantage in the PCS group (p=0.008). However, no significant difference was observed if there was any residual tumor (p=0.091).
Conclusion: OS was significantly longer in the PCS group. Survival is better in platinum-resistant patients if no residual tumor exists after PCS. There was no difference in OS between the PCS and NACT groups in platinum-sensitive patients, regardless of residual tumor. Specific methods and markers are needed before initial treatment in epithelial ovarian cancer.
Risk factors of incident lung diseases and the impact of DMARDs in rheumatoid arthritis patients: a longitudinal study
Authors: Chen Guangcai , Zhang Qing , Geng Linyu , Zhang Yaqi , Liang Jun , Jin Ziyi , Qian Zhijie , Xu Xinqi , Zhu Kexin , Shu Qing , Tang Xiaojun , Zhang Huayong , Feng Xuebing , Chen Hongwei , Wang Dandan , Shen Wei , Sun Lingyun
Published: July 2024

Objective
We aimed to investigate the impact of clinical characteristics and therapy on rheumatoid arthritis (RA)-related lung diseases.
Methods
The retrospective cohort consisted of 1,207 inpatients at baseline. RA-related lung diseases included interstitial lung disease (ILD), bronchiectasis, pleural effusion, or pulmonary arterial hypertension. Kaplan-Meier method was used to measure the cumulative incidence curve. Cox regression was conducted to evaluate the associations between RA-related lung diseases and risk indicators. Logistic regression was employed to examine the impact of drugs.
Results
145 patients developed RA-related lung diseases during a mean follow-up period of 3.5 years. The incidence of RA-related lung diseases increased, especially after 10 years of RA onset, or from the age of 55. RA-related lung diseases was independently associated with older age at RA onset (per 10 years, hazard ratio [HR] = 1.22, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.04–1.42), longer RA duration (per 10 years, HR = 1.43, 95%CI = 1.15–1.77), higher Rheumatic Disease Comorbidity Index (HR = 1.22, 95%CI = 1.08–1.39), history of lung infections (HR = 2.26, 95%CI = 1.58–3.24), concomitant systemic lupus erythematosus (HR = 2.36, 95%CI = 1.35–4.13). After adjustment, ever-use of methotrexate was negatively associated with RA-related lung diseases (odds ratio [OR] = 0.64, 95%CI = 0.44–0.92) and ILD (OR = 0.54, 95%CI = 0.35–0.83). Biologic or targeted synthetic disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (b/tsDMARDs) were also found protective (OR = 0.59, 95%CI = 0.35–0.99).
Conclusion
Our study indicated that several risk factors were associated with RA-related lung diseases, and methotrexate and b/tsDMARDs brought protective effects.
Linking clinical manifestations and causative organisms may provide clues for the treatment of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis
Authors: Ren Dong-dong , Pan Yue-Juan , Nie Jian-dong , Wang Xiaoxiao , Tang Wen
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Different initial manifestations of peritoneal dialysis-associated peritonitis (PDAP) may depend on the type of pathogenic organism. We investigated the association between the clinical characteristics of PDAP and susceptibility to vancomycin and investigated the possibility of using vancomycin monotherapy alone as an initial treatment regimen for some PDAP patients to avoid unnecessary antibiotic exposure and secondary infection.
Methods
Patients with culture-positive PDAP were retrospectively analyzed and divided into two groups: those who presented with only cloudy effluent (PDAP-cloudy) or those who presented with cloudy effluent, abdominal pain and/or fever (PDAP-multi). The bacterial culture of PD effluent and antibiotic sensitivity test results were compared between groups. Logistic regression was used to investigate factors predicting susceptibility to vancomycin.
Results
Of the 162 patients who had a positive bacterial culture of PD fluid, 30 patients were in the PDAP-cloudy group, and 132 patients were in the PDAP-multifroup group. Thirty (100%) patients in the PDAP-cloudy group had gram-positive bacterial infections, which was significantly greater than that in the PDAP-multifroup group (51.5%) (P < 0.001). Twenty-nine (96.7%) peritonitis patients in the PDAP-cloudy group were susceptible to vancomycin, compared to 67 (50.8%) in the PDAP-multi group (P < 0.001). The specificity of PDAP-cloudy for vancomycin-sensitive peritonitis was 98.48%. Only one patient (3.3%) in the PDAP-cloudy group experienced vancomycin-resistant peritonitis caused by Enterococcus gallinarum, which could neither be covered by vancomycin nor by the initial antibiotic regimen recommended by the current ISPD guidelines. The presence of only cloudy effluent was an independent predictor of susceptibility to vancomycin according to multivariate analysis (OR = 21.893, 95% CI 2.803-171.004, p = 0.003), in addition to PD effluent WBC counts (OR = 0.988, 95% CI 0.980–0.996, p = 0.004) and concomitant diabetes mellitus (OR = 2.878, 95% CI 1.347–6.129, p = 0.006). The specificity of presenting with only cloudy effluen for vancomycin-sensitive peritonitis was 98.48%.
Conclusions
Cloudy dialysate, as the only symptom at PDAP onset, was an independent predictor of vancomycin-sensitive PDAP, which is an important new insight that may guide the choice of initial antibiotic treatment.
Surgical Implantation of An Embolized CoreValve transcatheter Self-Expandable aortic bioprosthesis
Authors: Forouzannia Seyed Mohammad , Pakbaz Marziyeh , zeinali Ali Mohammad Haji , Forouzannia Seyed Ali , Forouzannia Seyed Khalil
Published: July 2024

We report on a case of failed Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) in a 78-year-old male, complicated by the dislodgment of a CoreValve into the distal ascending aorta after it was successfully implanted. The case was managed surgically by retrieving and re-implanting the dislodged valve as a bailout strategy.