bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing the Efficiency of Catalytic Conversion Processes for Biomass to Biofuels: Innovations in Catalyst Development and Pathways towards Sustainable Energy Solutions
Authors: Alqarni Areej
Published: April 2024

With the global imperative to transition towards renewable energy sources, the study focuses on agricultural residues as a biomass feedstock, evaluating the efficacy of novel catalysts compared to commercial counterparts. Through meticulous preparation and characterization of the catalysts, the study elucidates their superior physicochemical properties, which contribute to a significant increase in biofuel yield—35% (w/w) with synthesized catalysts versus 20% (w/w) with commercial ones. The conversion process's optimization was evidenced by a higher proportion of desirable hydrocarbons and a reduced presence of oxygenates in the biofuel composition, as analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Environmental and economic impact assessments, including life cycle analysis (LCA) and techno-economic analysis (TEA), demonstrated the process's potential to halve greenhouse gas emissions and remain economically viable under competitive biomass costs. Statistical analysis confirmed the reproducibility and significance of the results, underscoring the synthesized catalysts' efficiency and selectivity. The findings highlight the potential of catalytic biomass conversion as a sustainable pathway to biofuel production, contributing to the reduction of reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change impacts. Future research directions include catalyst optimization, process scaling, and integration into existing bioenergy frameworks to enhance the feasibility of biomass-derived biofuels as a renewable energy source.
Association Between Consultation Themes and Suicidal Ideation Among Callers to the Hangzhou Mental Health Hotline: A Gender-Stratified Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Wu Deyuan , Wei Yating , Chen Qiuxia , Fu Xiaonv , Song Haidong
Published: April 2024

Objective: This cross-sectional study aims to investigate the association between consultation themes and suicidal ideation among callers to the Hangzhou Mental Health Hotline using data from 128,245 hotline calls made between January 1, 2014, and December 31, 2023. The study specifically focuses on gender disparities in this association. Methods: The study analyzed hotline calls, distinguishing between those with and without suicidal ideation. Propensity score matching was employed for group comparability, and logistic regression explored the link between consultation themes and suicidal ideation, adjusting for confounders. A gender-stratified analysis aimed to identify gender-specific patterns.
Results: The prevalence of suicidal ideation among callers was 9.6%, with a higher incidence observed among females (54.1%) and individuals aged 10-19 years (25.5%). Logistic regression analysis revealed significant associations between consultation themes and suicidal ideation. Mental health issues (OR = 3.00, 95% CI: 2.90-3.11), romantic relationship dilemmas (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.78-2.01), and marital/family problems (OR = 1.81, 95% CI: 1.70-1.93) were strongly linked to suicidal ideation. Additionally, physical illness discussions had a significantly higher association with suicidal ideation in females (OR = 5.87, 95% CI: 3.46-9.94) than in males (OR = 2.89, 95% CI: 1.95-4.31). Notably, consultations on sexual issues were inversely associated with suicidal ideation in males (OR = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.06-0.20), providing a protective effect. However , work-related issues were significantly associated with suicidal ideation in females (OR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.52-3.13), indicating increased vulnerability in this demographic.
Conclusion: The study’s results indicate a notable link between specific consultation themes and suicidal ideation, with the highest risks associated with mental health issues, relationship dilemmas, and family problems. Gender differences were pronounced, highlighting the need for gender-sensitive approaches in addressing suicidal ideation, especially regarding physical illness and work-related stress. The findings suggest that targeted interventions in hotline services could significantly impact suicide prevention, particularly for high-risk groups.
Advancing NB-IoT Communication: Performance Analysis and Novel Gap-Aware Hybrid Scheduling for Delay-Sensitive Devices
Authors: TRABELSI Salem , GONTARA Salah , BOUGHARRIOU Sana , MTIBAA Abdellatif
Published: April 2024

The explosive growth of Internet of Things (IoT) applications has driven the development of specialized communication technologies to cater to diverse device needs. Narrowband IoT (NB-IoT) is a promising low-power wide-area network (LPWAN) technology designed to support massive machine-type communication (MTC) with tolerant delay transmission. However, MTC presents new challenges for NB-IoT, especially in meeting the very low latency and high reliability requirements. It is important to understand which techniques, such as scheduling and resource allocation, enable low-delay applications to meet their goals. To accomplish these tasks, this paper uses realistic simulations within a variety of traffic scenarios, focusing on scheduling uplink data and resource allocation management. We discuss (1) the components contributing to the Quality of Service (QoS) for NB-IoT devices, (2) evaluate the performance of prioritized scheduling schemes and resource unit (RU) configuration for uplink transmission modes, point out potential improvements to reduce the latency for delay-sensitive devices, and (3) implement and evaluate a novel hybrid scheduling solution called the Gap Aware Hybrid Scheduling (GAHUS) Algorithm. We have developed a solution to enhance network efficiency and prioritize sensitive-delay devices to meet their QoS requirements. Using methods like simulations, comparisons, and performance evaluations, we have demonstrated the effectiveness of our approach in assigning free resource gaps created during long uplink transmissions. GAHUS enables handling massive MTC traffic while ensuring reliable performance for delay-sensitive devices by minimizing rejections and delays.
Disinfectants efficacy in reducing pathogens related to health-care infection associated in universities hospitals of Gorgan, Noth of Iran
Authors: Golfiroozi Saeed , Fashayi Fateme , Rajabi Abdolhalim , Shahryar Ali
Published: April 2024

Background
Disinfection have a fundamental role in the control of pathogens in the hospital environment. This study was designed to assess the efficacy and functional impact of disinfectants in reducing pathogens related to healthcare infection associated (HIAs) in hospitals.
Methods
This observation study was conducted at three university hospitals in Gorgan, Iran, from May to Oct 2023. The data including used disinfectants and microbiological examination were obtained from the infection control unit of each hospital.
Results
The results showed that a variety of disinfectants from intermediate to high levels were employed in accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) protocols. The microbial result revealed that 31.6% (286 out of 906) of the sample had at least one microorganism. Among identified organisms, Bacillus spp. were the predominant species followed by Staphylococcus epidermis, fungus genera, Enterobacter spp., Entrococci spp., Pseudomonas spp., Escherichia coli, Alcaligenes spp., Staphylococcus aureus, Citrobacter spp., Corynebacterium spp., Klebsiella spp., Acinetobacter spp., Micrococcus spp., Staphylococcus saprophyticus, and Serratias spp. The highest prevalence rates of microorganisms were observed in the wards of ICU, emergency, internal, and women. The chi-square test revealed a significant relationship between the presence of organism’s and hospital wards (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
The presence of pathogens indicates a defect in the disinfection process, probably due to both little attention to disinfection protocols and resistance to multidrugs. It is not yet possible to eliminate pathogens from the hospital environment, but it can be minimized by education intervention, standardizing disinfecting processes, and monitoring by the infection control committee.
Performance Analysis of Machine Learning Algorithms for Estimation of EV Penetration
Authors: Chhetri Abhay , Saini Devender Kumar , Yadav Monika , Pal Nitai
Published: April 2024

The escalating threat of global warming poses a formidable challenge to sustainability, necessitating a transformative shift in the transportation sector. A pivotal solution lies in transitioning from conventional fuel-based vehicles to electric vehicles (EVs) to curtail global warming and unlock significant social and economic benefits. However, this transition is far from straightforward and consists of many challenges, with a major concern being the accurate estimation of the EV population on our roads. Many parameters influence EV adoption, making it crucial to gauge the potential number of EVs on the road. To address this, our study delves into the depths of machine learning (ML), conducting a study to estimate the EV penetration of the Uttarakhand region in India by employing different ML algorithms, including random forest (RF), support vector machine (SVM), decision trees, artificial neural networks (ANN), and K-nearest neighbor (KNN). After the estimation of EV penetration, an approach to determine the energy and power requirements in the grid infrastructure is shown, considering the domestic EV charging scenario. The study shows that the SVM and ANN algorithms can be used for the estimation of EV penetration, achieving a higher R-square score of 0.979 and 0.978 respectively, with less root mean square error (RMSE).
Visual perceptive functioning in Japanese schoolchildren born with very low birth weight
Authors: Fukui Miho , Shimakawa Shuichi , Okumura Tomohito , Tsuda-Kitahara Hikaru , Ashida Akira
Published: April 2024

Background
We aimed to use the Wide-range Assessment of Vision-related Essential Skills (WAVES) to evaluate the visual perception of Japanese schoolchildren born weighing < 1500 g, who did not need support class and had an average IQ score.
Methods
The very-low birth weight infant group (VLBWI group) included 38 (17 male, 21 female) first-grade elementary schoolchildren born between April 2009 and March 2013 at Osaka Medical College Hospital and Saiseikai Suita Hospital. The scores for the 10 subtests and 4 indices of WAVES were calculated for all participants and compared to the WAVES normative database of schoolchildren in the same grade (C group). We assessed whether clinical history was associated with WAVES score in the VLBWI group.
Results
Compared with the C group, the participants in the VLBWI group had significantly lower scores for form tracing (success and rate scores), figure-ground speed, discrimination accuracy, visual memory, copying, and the indices of WAVES, except for the eye-hand coordination general index. The scores for line tracing (ratio) and eye-hand coordination accuracy index were significantly lower in participants who were born at gestational age < 28 weeks than in those born at gestational age ≥ 28 weeks. Copying performance was significantly lower in participants with than without chronic lung disease.
Conclusion
This is the first study to evaluate the visual perception of schoolchildren born weighing < 1500 g in Japan. We report lower scores of WAVES’ subtests on processing speed in these children, implying they might have increased risk of poor school performance and learning disabilities.
Association between atrial fibrillation/flutter and left ventricular failure: A bidirectional Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Tiantian , Fan Zhou
Published: April 2024

Background：atrial fibrillation(AF) and heart failure(HF) share common pathophysiological mechanisms, thus frequently coexisting and mutually influencing disease progression.The combination of these conditions is associated with heightened mortality rates and unfavorable prognosis. Significant progress has been made in the study of AF-HF, but it remains unclear which approach provides the best long-term efficacy. In this study, our objective is to employ Mendelian randomization studies in order to investigate the causal relationship between atrial fibrillation/atrial flutter(AFL) and left ventricular failure(LVF), explore potential therapeutic targets for clinical application, and optimize the management and clinical outcomes of patients with AF/AFL and HF.
Methods: The data of AF/AFL from the IEU OpenGWAS project.These data derive from a European population consisting of 463,010 participants drawn from the UK Biobank. Among them, 5,669 individuals had AF/AFL, and a total of 9,851,867 SNPs were considered.To ensure a matching number of SNPs between LVF and minimize population overlap effects, we implemented the most recent and largest genome-wide association study meta-analysis from the IEU OpenGWAS project. A total of 2046 cases and 460,964 controls were investigated,within a total of 9,851,867 SNPs. We adopted inverse variance weighted (IVW) as the main way to estimate the Mendelian randomization analysis.
Results：The preliminary results of IVW revealed postive causal effect of AF/AFL on LVF [OR =1.053, 95% CI: 1.023-1.084, P = 0.0006] Cochran's IVW Q test results show no significant heterogeneity among these IVs. The results of the MR-Egger regression intercept analysis indicate no significant horizontal pleiotropy. MR-PRESSO global test results revealed no horizontal pleiotropy. Additionally, the p-values of the MR PRESSO global test for AF/AFL on LVF were all greater than 0.05.The funnel plot presents a symmetricl shap,suggesting significant heterogeneity,indicating that there is no systematic bias between the study effect and its accuracy. The leave-one-out plot is shown that each IVs does not have a serious bias effect on the overall MR results.The results of the steiger test confirmed no causal effect of LVF on AF/AFL.
Conclusions：This MR study presents novel genetic evidence supporting a causal association between AF/AFL and LVF, thus contributing to the advancement of our understanding in this field.This study underscores the importance of managing HF-AF patients by incorporating AF/AFL treatment alongside conventional anti-HF therapy and ventricular rate control, aiming to enhance LV function and achieve a more favorable prognosis.In addition, this study found that LVF did not have a significant impact on AF/AFL.
Azvudine reduces the mortality rate of patients with Coronavirus disease 2019: a single-center retrospective analysis study
Authors: Zhong Zhen , Liu Xiao-feng , Zhou Xiao-zhong , Zhong Jia-ning , Zhou Li-cheng , Li Rong , Liu Xian-fa
Published: April 2024

Background: Several therapeutic drugs have been authorized for the treatment of patients with Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). However, further research on the mechanisms of action, efficacy, and target populations of these novel therapeutic drugs are necessary. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of azvudine in hospitalized patients with COVID-19.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with COVID-19 admitted to our hospital from December 1, 2022, to March 31, 2023. Patients were divided into retrospective cohorts receiving azvudine antiviral therapy and standard treatment, and were followed-up for up to 28 days.
Results: Prior to data processing, azvudine treatment was associated with reduced mortality rates at 7 days (1.09/1000 persons vs.5.06/1000 persons, p<0.001)and 14 days (3.35/1000 persons vs. 5.65/1000 persons, p=0.001). After propensity score matching, a decrease in mortality rates at 7 days (0.08/1000 persons vs.6.29/1000 persons, p<0.001), 14 days (3.42/1000 persons vs. 7.26/1000 persons, p<0.001), and 28 days (4.33/1000 persons vs. 7.29/1000 persons, p=0.003) were observed following azvudine treatment. After inverse probability of treatment weighting adjustment, the results were consistent with propensity score matching. In the clinical subgroup analysis, for hospitalized severe and critical patients with COVID-19, azvudine treatment intervention significantly reduced patient mortality rates.
Conclusions: The study suggests that in hospitalized patients with COVID-19, azvudine treatment significantly reduces patient mortality rates in hospitalized COVID-19 infections, wherein the effects are more pronounced in severe and critical patients.
Neligible Outflow Impaiment After Photoablative Cosmetic Laser Iridoplasty, Demonstrated by Tonography
Authors: Ruiz Pedro Grimaldos , Roko Victoria , Font Pau , Ruiz Pedro Grimaldos
Published: April 2024

PURPOSE: To demonstrate that the photoablative cosmetic laser iridoplasty (PCI) procedure does not induce alterations in the aqueous humor outflow through the iridocorneal angle, and therefore, no risk of secondary hypertension, evaluated by tonography.
DESIGN: Prospective study conducted over a 15-month period, comparing intraocular pressures before and after PCI using tonography.
METHODS: A total of 560 patients, all cosmetic cases, were included in this study. Patients were healthy individuals over the age of 18. We employed the Tomey FT 1000 non-contact air tonometer to measure intraocular pressure (IOP). After controlling IOP in both eyes, we applied controlled pressure to the right eye using the Honan balloon for two minutes maintaining a pressure of 40 mmHg, while the left eye served as a control (no pressure applied). After removing the balloon, IOP is measured again using the same tonometer in both eyes. This allows us to compare the pressure changes between the eye where the balloon was applied and the control eye.
RESULTS: Significant differences were observed in intraocular pressure before and after using the Honan balloon in the right eye (p < 2.2e-16, mean decrease of 1.749), while no significant changes were noted in the left eye. Comparison of percentage decrease between the eyes showed a significant difference (p < 2.2e-16, mean difference of 14.39%). Analysis considering different stages of PCI treatment and pigmentary degrees revealed no significant differences in pressure reduction rates. Intraocular pressure analysis pre- and post-laser treatment showed no significant alterations in either eye (p > 0.5731), suggesting the procedure did not affect intraocular pressure.
CONCLUSION: The risk of secondary hypertension arises from obstruction of the outflow pathway and increased resistance to aqueous humor drainage. Post-laser care is crucial to maintain normal IOP levels. Macrophages and phagocytes play crucial role eliminating deposited pigment. Gonioscopy, provides insights into the distribution of pigment deposition. Additionally, a waiting period of 4 to 6 months before subsequent laser interventions allows iris stromal homeostasis. Our study tries to demonstrate minimal risk of secondary hypertension post-PCI, indicative of a potentially unobstructed trabecular angle.
Quality of Life of Cancer Patients in Palliative Care in Northern Malawi: A descriptive cross-sectional study
Authors: Sinyiza Frank Watson , Kaseka Paul Uchizi , Chimbatata Chikondi Sharon , Chisale Master R. O. , Hsieh Yu-Ting Sunny , Wu Tsung-Shu Joseph , Yu Kwong-Leung Joseph , Mbakaya Balwani Chingatichifwe
Published: April 2024

Background
Cancer continues to cause major morbidity and mortality in low- and middle-income countries thereby contributing to unmet palliative care services. Palliative care among cancer patients aims to improve Quality of Life (QoL). This study was conducted to assess the quality of life of cancer patients in palliative care.
Methods
Through a descriptive cross-sectional design, 158 cancer patients in palliative care services were assessed using the WHOQOL-BREF tool which is a validated and reliable tool to assess quality of life. The study was conducted in the northern region of Malawi. The participants were assessed in four domains of quality of life namely physical, psychological, environment health and social relationships. We also assessed individual’s overall perception to quality of life and satisfaction with their health.
Results
A total of 158 patients were interviewed with mean age of 53 years and majority were females 102 (64.6%). The most frequent cancer sites among the study subjects were Cervical 60 (38%) followed by skin (Kaposi’s sarcoma) 32 (20.3%). Only 54 (34.2%) patients had laboratory confirmed cancer. Majority 98 (62.0%) of the patients had received palliative chemotherapy and 103 (65.2%) were on opioids for pain control. The results show a significant positive correlation between the overall quality of life and overall satisfaction and the scores of the physical and psychological domains, with r > 0.4 (p < .001). Higher education (p < 0.05), being on palliative chemotherapy (p < 0.05) and longer duration of cancer (p < 0.05) were associated with better quality of life. Morphine was found to be a significant negative predictor affecting both the Physical domain (β = −9.24; p = 0.045) and Q1 (β = −0.53; (p < 0.05), but not psychological domain and overall satisfaction of health. Age, gender, occupation and religious affiliation were not related to overall QOL and satisfaction.
Conclusion
There are various factors that affect QOL among patients in palliative care. Physical and environmental domains are major determinants of overall QOL and satisfaction. The effectiveness of palliative care services in maintaining the overall quality of life requires comprehensive supportive care.
Outcomes after 4 years’ experience with low suction drains. Would it be safe to go drainless or low suction?
Authors: Fazlioglu Mithat , Hammad Walid , Piyadeoglu Deniz , Kutlu Cemal Asim
Published: April 2024

Background: The principles of chest drainage have not changed significantly since 1875 when Bülau introduced the idea of underwater drainage tube which became a trademark of thoracic surgery. We performed a prospective, randomized trial comparing omitting pleural drain (drainless group) versus drainage with small low suction drain (drainage group) strategies of thoracic surgery when the visceral pleura remains intact. Aiming to investigate whether these approaches represent safe treatment options.
Methods: A multi-center, prospective, parallel group, randomized, controlled trial enrolling patients after thoracic procedures in which visceral pleura remained intact at the end of surgery between August 2020 and September 2023. After completion of the procedure a suction-seal test was conducted on all patients. If suction-seal test was positive to confirm absence of air leak, patients were randomized to either receive low auto-suction drain as a solo pleural drain (drainage group) or not to receive drain (drainless group).
Results: During the study period, 111 patients were recruited. Eleven patients had negative Suction-seal test and were excluded by inserting a traditional underwater seal. The remaining 100 patients were randomly assigned to either drainage group with low suction drain (figure 1) (n = 50) or drainless group (n = 50).
Conclusion: The results of this study suggest that either omitting drain or inserting a low auto suction drain safely substitutes the one-way valve when the visceral pleural remained intact. Omitting drain or inserting portable small caliber drains encourage early mobilization and is associated with shorter hospital stay.
Distribution Characteristics, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Variation Trends of Biliary Microbiome in Acute Cholangitis patients : A 7-Year Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Hospital in Northwest China
Authors: Hao Yuqi , Du Wenting , Lu Jinshuai
Published: April 2024

Background
With the increase in bacterial resistance worldwide, the bacterial characteristics of the biliary tract may have changed. Bile specimens for microbiological analysis are obtained primarily during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography, with a few from percutaneous transhepatic cholangial drainage. However, in some regions of China, patients still undergo laparoscopic T-tube drainage. The lack of data from this subset may lead to an incomplete understanding of the characteristics of the biliary microbiome.
Method
1094 hospitalized patients diagnosed acute cholangitis from January 1, 2017 to December 31, 2023, who underwent biliary drainage procedures with bile specimen collection in our hospital were selected.Collect and analyse their general information, results of biliary culture, antimicrobial susceptibility and potential reasons for changes over 7 years.
Results
Among the 1,094 patients with acute cholangitis, 875 specimens (79.91%) yielded positive bile cultures, facilitating the detection of 1,026 strains belonging to 24 genera and 75 species of pathogens..Gram-negative bacteria were predominant,accounting for 63.65%(653/1,026) of the isolates, followed by gram-positive bacteria at 31.97%(328/1,026) and fungi at 4.39%(45/1,026). The main genera were Escherichia (249, 24.27%), Enterococcus (197, 19.20%), Klebsiella (170, 16.57%). Over the years, there has been a fluctuating upward trend in the diversity of pathogens. From 2017 to 2021, the proportion of gram-negative bacilli gradually decreased while gram-positive cocci increased, although the difference was not statistically significant. However, from 2022 to 2023, the proportion of gram-negative bacilli significantly increased compared to the previous five years.There was an increasing trend in the resistance rates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae to various antibiotics.They were more sensitive to piperacillin/sulbactam sodium than to cefoperazone/sulbactam sodium.
Conclusion
The proportion of gram-positive bacteria increased annually in patients without differences in the history of Oddi sphincter incision. Incision of the Oddi sphincter increased the proportion of gram-negative bacteria but did not increase the proportion of major bacterial species and had no significant effect on the distribution of Enterococcus. The detection rates of resistant bacteria increased significantly. The resistance rates of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae to antibiotics showed an overall increasing trend.
YB-1 expression analysis in the developing mouse eye by immunohistochemistry
Authors: Nass Alexander , Wolf Hella , Sel Saadettin , Kalinski Thomas , Nass Norbert
Published: April 2024

Objective:
Cold shock proteins such as YB-1 (ybx1) function in the regulation of transcription, mRNA stability, and translation. Consequently, YB-1 contributes to differentiation, stress responses and oncogenesis. Eye development is a complex process involving the differentiation of a signifiant number of cell-types with distinct functions. Additionally, the adult eye is exposed to UV-radiation causing significant oxidative stress. We therefore hypothesized that YB-1 plays a role in eye development as well as stress defence. As a first step to understand YB-1 function in this context, we analyzed its expression in the developing and adult mouse eye by immunohistochemistry.
Results:
Expression of the YB-1 protein in the developing mouse eye at stages (E12, E15 and E18) and in adult eyes (P14) was detected in all retinal cells and in cells of the cornea and the lens epithelium at all stages investigated. These findings support a significant function of YB-1 in the eye, may be related to development and differentiation.
Fixed-time composite observer-based adaptive recursive sliding mode control for tiltrotor UAV attitude tracking
Authors: Luo Liwei , Xu Sheng , Su Chengyue , Xie Mengshan , Li Jinfa
Published: April 2024

An adaptive recursive sliding mode control (ARSMC) scheme based on a fixed-time composite observer (FTO) is introduced in this paper, to address challenges in tiltrotor unmanned aerial vehicle (TUAV) attitude control. As an electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the unique structure of TUAV leads to significant aerodynamic disturbances, particularly during transition modes, causing flight instability. To enhance control robustness, a fast-converging FTO is designed to estimate the system states, model uncertainties and external disturbances, achieving fixed-time convergence. The FTO comprises a fixed-time state observer (FTSO) based on homogeneous function and a fixed-time disturbance observer (FTDO). To accomplish rapid and accuracy attitude tracking during TUAV flight, a recursive sliding mode control (RSMC) is employed. This method utilizes reconstructed information from the FTO, incorporates an adaptive law to update control gains, and ensures finite-time convergence. And the recursive structure reduces the convergence time while reducing chattering phenomena. Ultimately, simulation results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed FTO-ARSMC (FAC) strategy in rapidly and robustly controlling the attitude during the transition mode of TUAV.
Identification of a novel non-coding deletion in Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome by long-read HiFi genome sequencing
Authors: Yoon Jihoon G. , Lee Seungbok , Park Soojin , Jang Se Song , Cho Jaeso , Kim Man Jin , Kim Soo Yeon , Kim Woo Joong , Lee Jin Sook , Chae Jong-Hee
Published: April 2024

Background:Allan-Herndon-Dudley syndrome (AHDS) is an X-linked disorder caused by a pathogenic variant in theSLC16A2gene. Although most reported variants are found in protein-coding regions or adjacent junctions, structural variations (SVs) within non-coding regions have not been previously reported.Methods:To investigate two male siblings with severe neurodevelopmental disorders and spasticity, who had remained undiagnosed for over a decade and were negative from exome sequencing, we utilized long-read HiFi genome sequencing. We analyzed short-tandem repeats (STRs) and SVs to identify the genetic cause in this familial case.Results:While coding variants and STR analyses yielded negative results, SV analysis revealed a novel hemizygous deletion in intron 1 of theSLC16A2gene (ChrX:74,460,691-74,463,566; 2,876 bp), inherited from their carrier mother and shared by the siblings. Determination of the breakpoints indicates that the deletion probably resulted from Alu/Alu-mediated rearrangements between homologous AluY pairs. The deleted region is predicted to include multiple transcription factor binding sites, such as Stat2, Zic1, Zic2, and FOXD3, which are crucial for the neurodevelopmental process, as well as a regulatory element including an eQTL (rs1263181) that is implicated in the tissue-specific regulation ofSLC16A2expression, notably in skeletal muscle and thyroid tissues.Conclusions:This report, to our knowledge, is the first to describe a non-coding deletion associated with AHDS, demonstrating the potential utility of long-read sequencing for undiagnosed patients. It may expand the genomic spectrum of AHDS and highlight the identified region with a high priority for future investigation and functional studies.
Clinical efficacy analysis of tip‑flexible suctioning ureteral access sheath combined with disposable flexible ureteroscope to treat 2-4 cm renal stones
Authors: Chen Hua , Xiao Jiansheng , Ge Jiaqi , Liu Tairong
Published: April 2024

Purpose
This study aims to compare the clinical efficacy of tip-flexible suctioning ureteral access (TFS-UAS) combined with disposable flexible ureteroscope (DFU) to treat large renal calculi (2 ~ 4 cm) with the use of traditional ureteral access sheath (T-UAS).
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted to collect clinical data from 238 patients who underwent retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) at Ganzhou People’s Hospital between January 2019 and October 2023. The observation group consisted of 125 patients who utilized TFS-UAS, while the control group consisted of 113 patients who utilized UAS. Comparisons were made between the two groups regarding stone-free rate (SFR), complication rates, operation time, and average hospital stay.
Results
All surgeries involving the 238 patients were successfully completed. The stone-free rates for the observation group at the first and 30th day post-surgery were 87.20% and 73.45% respectively, whereas for the control group, the rates were 95.20% and 85.84%, demonstrating a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). The overall complication rates for the two groups were 1.6% and 14.16% respectively, with statistical significance (P < 0.001). The stone fragmentation and clearance operation times for the two groups were (101.17 ± 25.64) minutes and (86.23 ± 20.35) minutes respectively, indicating a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
In comparison to TUAS, the combination of TFS-UAS and DFU for treating renal calculi with a diameter of 2–4 cm may necessitate a longer duration for stone fragmentation and clearance. However, it exhibits a higher stone-free rate and a superior safety profile.
Mocetinostat as a novel selective histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor in the promotion of apoptosis in glioblastoma cell line C6 and T98G
Authors: khathayer Firas , Mikael Mohammed
Published: April 2024

Histon deacetylase (HDAC) enzyme is one of the enzymes involved in regulating gene expression and epigenetic alternation of cells by removing acetyl groups from lysine residue on a histone, allowing the histones to wrap the DNA more tightly and suppressing a tumor-suppressing gene. HDAC inhibitors play an important role in inhibiting the proliferation of tumor cells by restricting the mechanism of action of HDAC enzyme, leading to the addition of acetyl groups to lysine. Mocetinostat, also known by its chemical name (MGCD0103), is a novel isotype selective HDAC enzyme that explicitly targets HDAC isoforms inhibiting Class1(HDAC 1,2,3,8) and Class IV (HDAC11) enzymes. It was approved for treating the phase II trial of Hodgkin's lymphoma in 2010. Our study revealed that different doses of Mocetinostat inhibit the growth of glioblastoma cells, metastasis, and angiogenesis and induce the apoptosis and differentiation of glioblastoma cells C6 and T98G. Western blot has shown that MGCD0103 has many biological activities to control glioblastoma cancer cells. MGCD0103 can modulate the molecular mechanism for several pathways in cells, such as inhibition of the PI3K/AKT pathway and suppression of HDAC1 enzyme activity in charge of many biological processes in the initiation and progression of cancer. The high doses of Mocetinostat drug significantly induce apoptosis and suppress cancer cell proliferation through increased pro-apoptotic proteins (BAX) and a down level of anti-apoptotic proteins(Bid, Bcl2). Also, the mocetinostat upregulated the expression of the tumor suppressor gene and downregulated the gene expression of the E2f1 transcription factor. Additionally, MGCDO103-induced differentiation was facilitated by activating the differentiation marker GFAP and preventing the undifferentiation marker from expression (Id2, N-Myc). The MGCD0103 is a potent anticancer drug crucial in treating glioblastoma cells.
DCNN: A Novel Binary and Multi-Class Network Intrusion Detection Model via Deep Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Shebl Ahmed , Elsedimy Sayed , Ismail Amr , Salama Ahmed , Herajy Mostafa
Published: April 2024

Network security has become imperative in the context of our interconnected networks and everyday communications. Recently, many deep learning models have been proposed to tackle the problem of predicting intrusions and malicious activities in interconnected systems. However, they solely focus on binary classification and lack reporting on individual class performance in case of multi-class classification. Therefore, the need for an efficient and accurate network intrusion detection system has reached a pivotal point. In this paper, we propose a novel intelligent detection system based on convolutional neural network, namely DCNN. The proposed model can be utilized to analyze and detect attacks and intrusions in intelligent network systems. The DCNN model is applied against two benchmark datasets and compared with state-of-the-art models. Experimental results show that the proposed model improved resilience to intrusions and malicious activities for binary as well as multi-class classification. Furthermore, our DCNN model outperforms similar intrusion detection systems in terms of positive predicted value, true positive rate, F1 measure, and accuracy. The scores obtained for binary and multi-class classifications on the CICIoT2023 dataset are 99.50% and 99.25%, respectively. Additionally, for the CICIDS-2017 dataset, DCNN attains a score of 99.96% for both binary and multi-class classifications.
Impact of Virtual reality training on executive functions and cognitive Dominance in children with developmental coordination disorder: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: hashemi ayoub , Zamani Mohammad Hossein , Shahrbanian Shahnaz , saadatian Abouzar
Published: April 2024

Executive functions are basic for essential for regulating, monitoring, and controlling behavior in daily life. This study aimed to investigate the effects of virtual reality training on executive functions and cognitive dominance in children with developmental coordination disorder. The show think about was a quasi-experimental pre-post intervention design. The sample population of the study included 40 boys aged 6 to 9 years with DCD and were randomly divided into experimental (n = 20) and control (n = 20) groups. Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (DCDQ7), Raven Intelligence Test, Conner's child behavior rating scale, and Wechsler Intelligence Test (WISC-IV) were used to diagnose DCD children and evaluated variables study. the experimental group performed virtual reality training (Xbox Kinect 360) for 8 weeks (2 sessions per week and 30 minutes per session). Analysis of covariance with a 95% confidence level was used to analyze the data. The comes about appeared that virtual reality training had a significant impact on executive functions (F = 110.73, P = 0.001, Eta = 0.92) and cognitive dominance (F = 222.89, P = 0.001, Eta = 0.89) Children with DCD. The results of the present study provide further support for the potential of incorporating virtual reality training into an application environment, in a way that children enjoy while enhancing cognitive abilities
Distance from x-ray beam affects magnification of single marker calibration in non-linear fashion
Authors: Akalonu Chibuzo , Montgomery Spencer
Published: April 2024

Background
Preoperative templating commonly employs the use of a pre-determined size of an external calibration marker used to estimate the size of the final implant. Due to positioning differences of the ball to the X-ray beam, the size of the final implant can be incorrect by several cups sizes. The purpose of this study was to quantify the changes in magnification of a 25mm ECM at several distances between the XR emitter and receiver.
Methods
We placed 25mm X-ray ball at 100mm distances from the X-ray beam emitter, from 112 to 612mm and measured the size of the external calibration marker on our Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS).
Results
We found a non-linear size increase as the ECM was placed closer to the X-ray beam with the closest ECM at 612 mm from the plate 5 cup sizes larger than the ECM 112mm from the plate.
Conclusion
Position of the ECM from the X-ray plate increases the apparent size in a nonlinear fashion as it is moved farther form the x-ray detection plate and closer to the x-ray emitter.
Light-weight Frequency Re-calibration Network for Diabetic Retinopathy Multi-lesion Segmentation
Authors: Fu Yinghua , Liu Mangmang , Zhang Ge , Peng Jiansheng
Published: April 2024

Automated segmentation of Diabetic Retinopathy (DR) lesions is crucial for assessing DR severity and diagnosis. Most previous segmentation methods overlook the detrimental impact of texture information bias, resulting in suboptimal segmentation results. Additionally, the role of lesion shape is also not thoroughly considered. In this paper, we propose a light-weight frequency re-calibration network (LFRC-Net) for simultaneous multi-lesion DR segmentation, which integrates a Laplacian pyramid into the bottleneck layer of the encoder to analyze object features in different frequency domains. The high-frequency component handles texture information, while the low-frequency area focuses on learning the shape characteristics of DR lesions. By adaptively re-calibrating these frequency representations, our method can effectively differentiate the objects of interest. In the decoder, we introduce a residual attention module (RAM) to enhance lesion feature extraction and efficiently suppress irrelevant information. We evaluate the proposed model's segmentation performance on two public datasets, IDRiD and DDR, and a private dataset, Ultra-wide-field fundus images dataset. Extensive comparative experiments and ablation studies are conducted across multiple datasets. With minimal model parameters, our approach achieves mAP_PR of 60.51%, 34.83%, and 14.35% for the segmentation of EX, HE, and MA on the DDR dataset, and surpass those of the current state-of-the-art methods for EX and HE on the IDRiD dataset, which validates the effectiveness of our network.
Development of a non-invasive augmented reality-based navigation system for total hip arthroplasty in the supine position
Authors: Takada Ryohei , Watanabe Naoto , Miyatake Kazumasa , Sugita Naohiko , Yoshii Toshitaka , Koga Hideyuki
Published: April 2024

Background
A new non-invasive augmented reality (AR)-based portable navigation system was developed for accurate cup positioning during total hip arthroplasty (THA) in the supine position. This study aimed to clarify whether the navigation system supports cup positioning more accurately than a conventional goniometer during surgery. The navigation system may provide more accurate cup alignment than the conventional goniometer.
Methods
Sixty patients who underwent THA in the supine position were enrolled. The navigation system was used for 30 patients (navigation group), and a conventional goniometer was used for 30 patients (control group) to measure radiographic cup inclination and anteversion during surgery. The primary outcome was the absolute value of the difference in cup alignment measured during surgery and by postoperative radiography.
Results
The new non-invasive AR-based navigation system showed superior cup positioning accuracy compared to a conventional goniometer. An assessment of the primary outcome showed no significant difference in the radiographic cup inclination in the navigation and control groups (2.9° vs. 3.2°; mean difference, 0.3°; 95% confidence interval, -1.4–0.9; p = 0.67); however, the positioning in the navigation group was significantly more accurate than that in the control group in terms of radiographic anteversion (3.4° vs. 5.4°; mean difference, 2.0°; 95% confidence interval, 0.4–3.8; p = 0.017).
Conclusions
A new non-invasive AR-based portable navigation system resulted in more accurate cup positioning than the conventional goniometer. Because it is non-invasive, this system should be used for THA in the supine position.
A nomograph model for predicting the risk of diabetes nephropathy
Authors: Liu Moli , Li Zheng , Zhang Xu , Wei Xiaoxing
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVE
Using machine learning to construct a prediction model for the risk of diabetes kidney disease (DKD) in the American diabetes population and evaluate its effect.
METHODS
Firstly, a dataset of five cycles from 2009 to 2018 was obtained from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, weighted and then standardized (with the study population in the United States), and the data was processed and randomly grouped using R software. Next, variable selection for DKD patients was conducted using Lasso regression, two-way stepwise iterative regression, and random forest methods. A nomogram model was constructed for the risk prediction of DKD. Finally, the predictive performance, predictive value, calibration, and clinical effectiveness of the model were evaluated through the receipt of ROC curves, Brier score values, calibration curves (CC), and decision curves (DCA). And we will visualize it..
RESULTS
A total of 4371 participants were selected and included in this study. Patients were randomly divided into a training set (n = 3066 people) and a validation set (n = 1305 people) in a 7:3 ratio; Using machine learning algorithms and drawing Venn diagrams, five variables significantly correlated with DKD risk were identified, namely Age, Hba1c, ALB, Scr, and TP; The area under the ROC curve (AUC) of the training set evaluation index for this model is 0.735, the net benefit rate of DCA is 2% -90%, and the Brier score is 0.172; The area under the ROC curve of the validation set (AUC) is 0.717, and the DCA curve shows a good net benefit rate. The Brier score is 0.177, and the calibration curve results of the validation set and training set are almost consistent.
CONCLUSION
The DKD risk line chart model constructed in this study has good predictive performance, which helps to evaluate the risk of DKD as early as possible in clinical practice and formulate relevant intervention and treatment measures. The visual result can be used by doctors or individuals to estimate the probability of DKD risk, as a reference to help make better treatment decisions.
An Optimized RDMA QP Communication Mechanism for Hyperscale AI Infrastructure
Authors: Wang Junliang , Lin Baohong , Zhang Jiao , Sun Mengyu , Pan Yongchen
Published: April 2024

The current artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure widely employs remote direct memory access (RDMA) protocol for high-performance communication in networks, utilizing Reliable Connection (RC)-based Queue Pairs (QP) to ensure end-to-end correct and ordered data transmission. However, as the scale of AI infrastructure continues to expand, this RC-based QP communication mechanism faces deficiencies in scalability and is prone to congestion, resulting in degraded network transfer performance. In this paper, we propose an optimized RDMA QP communication mechanism to address scalability and congestion issues in hyper-scale AI infrastructure networks. Firstly, we replace RC-based QPs with Reliable Datagram (RD)-based QPs and propose a new reliable mechanism to address scalability problems, eliminating the need for repetitive QP establishment by AI processes during external communication. Additionally, to mitigate congestion caused by a single path, we implement multipath data transmission by introducing a new unordered reception method in the network software stack. Through experiments and simulation tests, the optimized RDMA QP communication in large-scale AI infrastructure exhibits exceptional scalability and significantly reduces the occurrence of congestion, resulting in an overall network performance improvement of over 15%.
Evaluations of drip and furrow irrigation method under deficit irrigation for pepper productivity in Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Adamtie Temesgen F. , Mitku Demeke T. , Selie Abeba H.
Published: April 2024

The combination of reduced food production and growing water scarcity posed significant difficulties for agriculture and economic development in Ethiopia. To minimize water loss, an experiment was carried out that was both economically viable and technically feasible. Thus, the purpose of this study was to evaluate the irrigation methods (Drip vs furrow) in terms of crop and water productivity, as well as technical implications in the Ethiopian context. A split plot in a randomized complete blocks design with three replications was used to experiment over two consecutive years, 2018 and 2019. Two irrigation systems, furrow irrigation and drip irrigation, were the focus of the plots. The sub-plots, on the other hand, examined four levels of deficit irrigation: 55%, 70%, 85%, and 100%. Drip irrigation resulted in a marketable fresh fruit yield of 6226.1 kg/ha, while furrow irrigation produced 5284.5 kg/ha. Water use efficiency is 20.678 kg/m3 for drip irrigation and 12.827 kg/m3 for furrow irrigation. Under full irrigation, the highest yield of marketable fresh fruit was 9560.2 kg/ha, while the lowest commercial fruit production was 4199.7 kg/ha at 55% of ETc. The results of the analysis suggest that drip irrigation may not be technically feasible for large-scale agricultural operations, as indicated by the substantial evidence from irrigating with 85% ETC using furrow irrigation. Hence, employing 85% ETC for irrigation in water-scarce regions has the potential to improve yield and water productivity.