bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of aquatic exercise versus other therapeutic modalities in patients with knee osteoarthritis pain: A systematic review with meta-analysis
Authors: Valenzuela-Fuenzalida Juan José , Barahona-Vásquez Marisol , López-Chaparro Michelle , Martínez-Hernández Daniela , Ávila-Sepulveda Roberto , Orellana-Donoso Mathias , Nova-Baeza Pablo , Bruna-Mejias Alejandro , Probst Vanessa S , Sepúlveda-Loyola Walter , Espinoza Héctor Gutiérrez
Published: January 2024

This systematic review explores the most current evidence regarding aquatic exercise therapy in patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) pain. The review also seeks to provide guidelines for the best approach and treatment for patients experiencing this type of pain. To study the relationship between aquatic exercise and knee osteoarthritis, with emphasis on the reduction of pain caused by the disease. We systematically search the databases MEDLINE (via PubMed), EMBASE, SCOPUS, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Web of Science. The findings of this review show that aquatic exercise presents statistically significant changes in Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) stiffness, the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), and the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG) [standardized mean difference (SMD) -5.46 (-5.82 to -5.11), -0.82 (-1.09 to -0.55), and − 1.53 (-1.96 to -1.09), respectively].This systematic review and meta-analysis shows that there is a statistically significant difference in some of the scales evaluated for functional results, stiffness, and pain reduction in the treatment with aquatic exercises for knee OA; however, we believe that more studies should be carried out to support these results from the mechanical, physiological, and clinical points of view.
Cell-free biodegradable electroactive scaffold for urinary bladder regeneration
Authors: Ameer Guillermo , Keate Rebecca , Bury Matthew , Mendez-Santos Maria , Gerena Andres , Goedegebuure Madeleine , Rivnay Jonathan , Sharma Arun
Published: January 2024

Tissue engineering heavily relies on cell-seeded scaffolds to support the complex biological and mechanical requirements of a target organ. However, in addition to safety and efficacy, translation of tissue engineering technology will depend on manufacturability, affordability, and ease of adoption. Therefore, there is a need to develop scalable biomaterial scaffolds with sufficient bioactivity to eliminate the need for exogenous cell seeding. Herein, we describe synthesis, characterization, and implementation of an electroactive biodegradable elastomer for urinary bladder tissue engineering. To create an electrically conductive and mechanically robust scaffold to support bladder tissue regeneration, we developed a phase-compatible functionalization method wherein the hydrophobic conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) (PEDOT) was polymerized in situ within a similarly hydrophobic citrate-based elastomer poly(octamethylene-citrate-co-octanol) (POCO) film. We demonstrate the efficacy of this film as a scaffold for bladder augmentation in athymic rats, comparing PEDOT-POCO scaffolds to mesenchymal stromal cell-seeded POCO scaffolds. PEDOT-POCO recovered bladder function and anatomical structure comparably to the cell-seeded POCO scaffolds and significantly better than non-cell seeded POCO scaffolds. This manuscript reports: (1) a new phase-compatible functionalization method that confers electroactivity to a biodegradable elastic scaffold, and (2) the successful restoration of the anatomy and function of an organ using a cell-free electroactive scaffold.
Loss of TREM2 function in mice leads to blood-brain barrier impairment, pathological leakage, and cognitive deficits due to microglial CCL2 upregulation
Authors: Tang Yi , Yang Han-Chen , Yin Yun-Si , Wang Meng , He Bao-Dong , Liang Ye , Li Rui-Yang , Yu Chao-Ji , Di Run , Xu Zhi-Qing , Liu Chang-Mei , Qin Qi , Teng Zhao-Qian
Published: January 2024

Blood-brain barrier (BBB) impairment, which causes leakage of harmful peripheral substances into the brain, is an early indicator of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Microglia are known to regulate BBB integrity, but the underlying mechanisms of this process remain unclear. We here analyzed BBB permeability and structural integrity in mice. Loss of TREM2 function was found to impair the structural integrity of the BBB; TREM2-deficient microglia showed CCL2 upregulation via activation of the NFκB pathway. The CCL2-CCR2 axis reduced the expression of endothelial tight junction proteins, including claudin-5, occludin, and ZO-1. BBB impairment led to increased leakage of amyloid β (Aβ) and β2-microglobulin (β2M) from peripheral tissues into the brain parenchyma, accelerating the formation of Aβ plaques and subsequent cognitive decline. Importantly, pharmacological blocking of CCR2 restored the BBB integrity, prevented peripheral Aβ deposition in the brain, and improved cognitive function in Trem2-knockout mice. Collectively, these results suggested that loss of TREM2 function induced BBB impairment and accelerated AD progression. Our study thus establishes TREM2 as a critical target for future studies of treatments to prevent and mitigate the effects of AD.
Near-surface maximum wind speed prediction of XGBoost model based on k-nearest neighbor mutual information feature selection
Authors: xiaoyan huang , Huasheng Zhao , Yushuang Wu , Li He , ying huang
Published: January 2024

This study focused on predicting the near-surface maximum wind speed using the eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) model based on k-nearest neighbor mutual information feature selection. The data from 93 meteorological stations in Guangxi Province from 2016 to 2021, with a temporal resolution of 3 h, were used for the prediction. By examining the effects of various dynamic and thermal factors, such as high altitudes and surface variables, on the prediction of maximum wind speed, a novel XGBoost-based prediction model for maximum wind speed was proposed. The model incorporates the k-nearest neighbor mutual information feature selection algorithm to choose the most relevant factors for accurate wind speed prediction. In the design of the prediction model, there are two main areas of improvement. First, a stepwise variable selection algorithm based on k-nearest neighbor mutual information estimation was employed, which selects relevant variables and removes weakly relevant variables through two steps, effectively eliminating redundant prediction characteristics that affect accuracy by screening the primary predictors and retaining important forecasting factors. Second, the Bayesian optimization algorithm was used to optimize the parameters in the XGBoost model, significantly enhancing the model's generalizability. The optimized and improved prediction model was utilized to model and research the near-surface maximum wind speed for 6 forecast lead times (12–72 h) at 93 meteorological stations. Comparative results of various forecast experiments using independent prediction samples from 2020 to 2021 demonstrated that the new model reduced the average mean absolute error (MAE) evaluation metric by 18.9–30.06% for the prediction results of the 93 stations. The root mean square error (RMSE) metric decreased by 40.18–65.83%. For the prediction of maximum wind speeds exceeding level 6, the MAE was reduced by 40.41%, 25.93%, 19.96%, 21.39%, 12.39%, and 8.55% for the 6 forecast lead times, respectively. The RMSE evaluation metric also decreased by 30.92%, 18.67%, 12.29%, 12.21%, 7.92%, and 2.39% for the respective lead times. The improved model demonstrated consistent prediction performance and significantly enhanced accuracy.
Observation of Neutron Emission During Acoustic Cavitation of Deuterated Titanium Powder
Authors: Fomitchev-Zamilov Max
Published: January 2024

In recent years there has been an explosion of commercial interest in fusion. This resurgence is driven in part by the desire to accelerate the transition away from hydrocarbons and and in part by slower than anticipated progress of the publicly funded fusion projects such as NIF and ITER. In this regard it is important to look for new ideas. One such idea involves a possibility of achieving nuclear fusion in solid state. Indeed, a solid-state fusion reactor devoid of complex plasma confinement tech would be remarkable. In this article we lift the veil over this possibility and report the observation of neutron emission coincident with acoustic cavitation of deuterated titanium powder suspended in mineral oil. The resulting neutron emission was detected using an assembly of 3He proportional neutron counters. The peak neutron count rate was in excess of 6,500 CPM, more than 10,000 times in excess of background. The observed neutron emission was coincident with the application of acoustic influence. The neutrons were present only when secondary acoustic waves originating from the complex bubble interactions inside the reactor constructively interfered resulting in massive, sharp pressure peaks on the order of a few thousand psi. We were able to sustain the neutron production for several hours and repeated the experiment multiple times under various conditions. We hypothesize that the observed neutrons originate from nuclear fusion of deuterium ions dissolved in titanium lattice due to the mechanical action of the impinging cavitation jets, although other processes (such as spallation) still need to be ruled out.
Multimodal Deep Learning for Classifying Diabetes: Analyzing Carotid Ultrasound Images from UK and Taiwan Biobanks and Their Cardiovascular Disease Associations
Authors: Chung Ren-Hua , Onthoni Djeane , Lin Hong-Ming , Li Guo-Hung , Hsiao Yu-Ping , Zhuang Yong-Sheng , Onthoni Ade , Lai Yi-Hsuan , Chiou Hung-Yi
Published: January 2024

Objective Clinical evidence has shown that carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a robust biomarker for determining the thickness of atherosclerosis, which in turn increases the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Additionally, diabetes mellitus (DM) is linked to the acceleration of atherosclerosis. Thus, as measured by carotid ultrasound (US), CIMT exhibits a significant association with both DM and CVD. This study examines the potential of US image features, beyond CIMT, in enhancing DM classification and their subsequent association with CVD risks. Specifically, we aimed to determine if these US image features could contribute to DM classification in conjunction with traditional predictors such as age, sex, CIMT, and body mass index (BMI). Additionally, we evaluated the relationship between the probabilities derived from the DM classification model and the prevalence and incidence of CVD in DM patients.Materials and Methods Utilizing carotid US image data from the UK Biobank (UKB) and Taiwan Biobank (TWB), we developed and trained a custom multimodal DM classification model. This model employed a Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) deep learning approach, using data from the UKB. We assessed the model's performance by comparing it with traditional models that incorporate only clinical features (age, sex, CIMT, BMI). The same comparative analysis was performed on the TWB data. Logistic regression was utilized to analyze the associations between the DM classification model's probability outcomes and CVD status.Results Our comprehensive performance evaluation across both the UKB and TWB datasets revealed that the multimodal DM classification model, which considers both image and clinical features (Age, Sex, CIMT, BMI), outperformed models that rely solely on clinical features. This was evidenced by an improved average precision of 0.762, recall of 0.655, specificity of 0.79, and accuracy of 0.721. Furthermore, in the UKB dataset, we identified a statistically significant association between the probabilities derived from the DM model and CVD status in DM patients, both prevalent (P-value: 0.006) and incident (P-value: 0.058), particularly on the left side.Conclusions The study provides robust evidence that carotid US image features, in addition to traditional parameters like CIMT, significantly enhance the capability of the multimodal DM classification model. The probability outcomes from this model could serve as a promising biomarker for assessing CVD risk in DM patients, offering a novel approach in the medical imaging field.
Circulating Subpopulations Of Non-Cytotoxic ILCs In Diffuse Large B- Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Chwieduk Agata , Smagur Andrzej , Głowala-Kosińska Magdalena , Borzdziłowska Paulina , Fidyk Wojciech , Mitrus Iwona , Wilkiewicz Marcin , Hadryś Agata , Cortez Alexander Jorge , Giebel Sebastian
Published: January 2024

Non-cytotoxic innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) have been added to the list of immune cells that may contribute to the tumor microenvironment. Elevated levels of total ILCs and their subgroups have been reported in peripheral blood and tissue samples from patients with solid tumors, but their frequency in non-Hodgkin lymphomas, particularly diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), has not been clearly established. This study examined frequency and subset distribution in newly diagnosed DLBCL patients (nodal and extra-nodal) and compared it with blood specimens from healthy donors. The percentage of total ILCs (Lin − CD127+) was assessed by flow cytometry, as well as the four ILC subsets, defined as ILC1 (Lin − CD127 + cKit − CRTH2−), ILC2 (Lin − CD127 + cKit+/- CRTH2+), ILCp NCR- (Lin − CD127 + cKit + CRTH2- NKp46-) and NCR + ILC3 (Lin − CD127 + cKit + NKp46+). In the studied group of patients (n = 54), significantly lower levels of circulating total ILCs, ILC1, and ILCp NCR- were observed compared to the control group (n = 43). Similarly, there was a statistically significant decrease in the median frequency of NKp46 + ILC3 cells in lymphoma patients. Analysis of the ILC2 subpopulation showed no significant differences. The correlation of the distribution of individual subpopulations of ILCs with the stage and location of the tumor was also demonstrated. Our results suggest that circulating ILCs are activated and differentiated and/or differentially recruited to the lymph nodes or tumor microenvironment where they may be involved in antitumor defense. However, our observations require confirmation in functional studies.
Canaries in the Baltic Sea “Coal Mine”:
Cod Otoliths Document Accelerating Climate Impacts
Authors: Heimbrand Yvette , Limburg Karin , Hüssy Karin , Naeraa Tomas , Casini Michele
Published: January 2024

Anthropogenic deoxygenation of the Baltic Sea caused major declines in demersal and benthic habitat quality with consequent impacts on biodiversity and ecosystem services. We employed Baltic cod as “canaries in the coal mine,” using otolith chemical proxies of hypoxia, salinity, and fish metabolic status and growth to track changes from baseline conditions in the late Neolithic (4500 YBP) and early 20th century to the present. Otolith hypoxia proxies (Mn:Mg) increased with expanding anoxic water volumes, but decreased with increasing salinity indexed by otolith Sr:Ca. Metabolic status proxied by otolith Mg:Ca and reconstructed growth were positively related to dissolved oxygen percent saturation, with particularly severe declines since 2010. This long-term record provides further evidence of a profound state change in oxygen for the worse, in one of the world’s largest inland seas. Spreading hypoxia will likely impair fish populations globally and evidence can be tracked with otolith chemical biomarkers.
Biomechanical behavior of implant retained prostheses in the posterior maxilla using different materials: A finite element study
Authors: Aboelfadl Ahmad , Keilig Ludger , Ebeid Kamal , Ahmed Mohamed Abdel Moniem , Refaie Ashraf , nouh ingy , bourauel Christoph
Published: January 2024

Background: In this study, the biomechanical behavior of the mesial and distal off-axial extensions of implant-retained prostheses in the posterior maxilla with different prosthetic materials were investigated using FEA.
Methods: 3D finite element models with three implant prosthetic designs: fixed-fixed, mesial cantilever, and distal cantilever were designed depending upon cone beam CT images of an intact maxilla of an anonymous patient. The 3D modeling software Mimics Innovation Suite (Mimics 14.0 / 3-matic 7.01; Materialise, Leuven, Belgium) was used. All the models were imported into the FE package Marc/Mentat (ver. 2015; MSC Software, Los Angeles, Calif). The material properties of the implant, bone, monolithic zirconia, and polyetherketoneketone polymer (PEKK) were taken from literature. Then, individual models were subjected to separate axial loads of 300 N. Stress values were computed for the prosthesis, bone, and implant under axial loading.
Results: Distal off-axial extension designs generated the maximum von Mises stresses (105 MPa) while the fixed-fixed designs generated the minimum von Mises stresses (35 MPa). The zirconia distal cantilever model yielded the most elevated levels of von Mises stresses within the prosthesis (105 MPa), with concentrated patterns at the implant prosthesisinterface near the offset extension. The von Mises stresses were highest in the implant (112 MPa) and compact bone (100 MPa) for the PEKK distal cantilever model. On the other hand, the zirconia fixed-fixed model exhibited the minimum von Mises stresses in the implant (49 MPa) and compact bone (20 MPa).
Conclusions: The fixed-fixed prosthetic design showed the lowest von Mises stresses. In clinically challenging conditions Mesial cantilever design together with a rigid prosthetic material is suggested as a second alternative with acceptable biomechanical behavior.
Predictive Indicators in Peripheral Blood and Left Atrium Blood for Left Atrial Spontaneous Echo Contrast in Atrial Fibrillation Patients
Authors: Ding Bing , Zhou Jing , Dai Yunlang , He Linyan , Zou Cao
Published: January 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the discriminating predictive indicators in peripheral blood and left atrium blood for predicting the risk of left atrial spontaneous echo contrast (LASEC) in atrial fibrillation patients underwent catheter ablation.
Methods: A total of 108 consecutive AF patients treated with radiofrequency ablation between July 2022 and July 2023 were enrolled and divided into two groups based on preprocedural transesophageal echocardiography: the non LASEC group (n=71) and the LASEC group (n=37). Circulating platelet and endothelial- derived MPs (PMPs and EMPs) in peripheral blood and left atrial blood were detected. Plasma soluble P-selectin (sP-selectin) and von Willebrand factor (vWF) were observed. Diagnostic efficiency was measured using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.
Results: Peripheral sP-selectin, vWF and EMPs expressions elevated in all subjects when compared to those in left atrium blood. Levels of sP-selectin and vWF were significantly higher in peripheral blood of LASEC group than those of non LASEC group (p=0.0018, p=0.0271). Significant accumulations of peripheral PMPs and EMPs were documented in LASEC group by comparison with non LASEC group (p=0.0395, p=0.018). The area under curve(AUC) of combined PMPs and sP-selectin in predicting LASEC was 0.769 (95%CI: 0.678–0.845, sensitivity: 86.49%, specificity: 59.15%)，significantly larger than PMPs or sP-selectin alone.
Conclusions: Expressionsof PMPs, sP-selectin, EMPs and vWF Increased in NVAF patients with LASEC and that might be potential biomarkers for LASEC prediction.
The Impact of Environmental Regulation on Green Investment Efficiency of Thermal Power Enterprises in China - Based on a Three-stage Exogenous Variable Model
Authors: Ren Fang-rong , Wu Tao-feng , Liu Xiao-yan , Yuan Xiaomei
Published: January 2024

Due to the increased frequency of extreme weather events and the implementation of the China’s dual-carbon target, thermal power companies have been under pressure to construct green infrastructure and to actively pursue low-carbon transformation in response to stricter environmental regulations. This research thus selects 30 listed thermal power enterprises in China as study objects and assesses their green investment efficiency in the low-carbon transition process using a three-stage DEA evaluation model with environmental regulations as an exogenous variable. Simultaneously, we carry out analysis to compare the correlation between thermal power firms’ green investment efficiency and their focus on green investments. The results show in terms of total efficiency that environmental regulation significantly improves the total efficiency of 80% of thermal power enterprises compared to the absence of this exogenous variable. With the addition of environmental regulation, firms’ total efficiency declines gradually in general from 2018 to 2022, with the mean value of efficiency falling by 0.068. In terms of stage-specific efficiency, the efficiency of the green investment stage of the majority of firms is between 0.3 and 0.6, which is much lower than that of the operational stage and the market performance stage. In terms of sub-indicator efficiency, both green investment efficiency and social donation efficiency among thermal power enterprises show obvious polarization, with 30% of them having an efficiency of 1 and 30% less than 0.1. In terms of green investment focus, thermal power unit renovation has a more obvious role in boosting the green investment efficiency of thermal power enterprises than do wind power and photovoltaic projects. Therefore, both governmental departments and thermal power enterprises need to take active measures in order to achieve green transformation from the perspective of green investment efficiency.
Imaging and Ferroelectric Orientation Mapping of Photostriction in a Single Bismuth Ferrite Nanocrystal
Authors: Mokhtar Ahmed , Newton Marcus , Serban David , Porter Daniel , Nisbet Gareth , Collins Steve , Bombardi Alessandro
Published: January 2024

The exploration of multiferroic materials and their interaction with light at the nanoscale presents a captivating frontier in materials science. Bismuth Ferrite (BiFeO3, BFO), a standout among these materials, exhibits room-temperature ferroelectric and antiferromagnetic behavior and magnetoelectric coupling. Of particular interest is the phenomenon of photostriction, the light-induced deformation of crystal structures, which enhances the prospect for device functionality based on these materials. Understanding and harnessing multiferroic phenomena holds significant promise in various technological applications, from optoelectronics to energy storage.
The orientation of the ferroelectric axis is an important design parameter for devices formed from multiferroic materials. Determining its orientation in the laboratory frame of reference usually requires knowing multiple wavevector transfer (Q-Vector) directions, which can be challenging to establish due to the need for extensive reciprocal-space searches. Our study demonstrates a method to uniquely identify the ferroelectric axis orientation using Bragg Coherent X-ray Diffraction Imaging (BCDI) measurements at a single Q-vector direction. This method involves applying photostriction-inducing laser illumination across various laser polarizations.
Our findings reveal that photostriction primarily occurs as a surface phenomenon at the nanoscale. Moreover, a photo-induced crystal length change ranging from 30 to 60 nm was observed, consistent with earlier findings performed on bulk material.
Inter-individual variations in hormonal, physiological, and performance adaptations to various forms of high-intensity interval interventions in collegiate soccer players
Authors: Zhang Jun , Wei Aodong , Xie Chao
Published: January 2024

This study compared the inter-individual variability in adaptive responses of hormonal, physiological, and physical performance measures to various forms of high-intensity interval interventions in collegiate soccer players. Forty male players participated in this study and were randomly assigned to traditional running-based sprint interval training (SIT), small-sided games (SSGs), short sprint interval training (SSIT), and a control group (CON), each of 10. Before and after training period, hormonal (testosterone and cortisol), physiological (maximum oxygen uptake [V̇O2max], V̇O2/HR, first and second ventilatory threshold [VT1 and VT2], peak and average power output [PPO and APO]), and performance (Yo-Yo IR1, countermovement vertical jump, 20-m sprint, L-run, and maximal kicking distance [MKD]) variables were measured. Analyzing individual responses revealed significantly greater adaptive responses of Yo-Yo IR1, VT2, and cortisol levels (p < 0.05), as well as lower residuals in changes in Yo-Yo IR1, VO2max, VT1 and VT2, and PPO to SSIT compared to SIT and SSGs (p < 0.05). By contrast, the SSGs group resulted in greater adaptations (p = 0.002) in MKD than the SIT and SSIT. By diminishing inter-individual variability in adaptive responses, SSIT results in more homogenous adaptations in measures of cardiorespiratory fitness, hormonal adaptations and sport-specific performance than SIT and SSGs.
Potential distribution prediction of Ceracris kiangsu Tsai in China
Authors: Fu Chun , Wen Xuanye , Shi Zhaopeng , Rui Lin , Jiang Na , Zhao Gelin , Wang Rulin , Zhao Jinpeng , Yang YaoJun
Published: January 2024

In order to find out the potential suitable areas of Ceracris Kiangsu Tsai in China, and do a good job in early monitoring. Based on 314 species distribution points of C.kiangsu which were obtained from Chinese herbaria, literatures and investigation, and data of three future climate scenarios presented by CMIP6, two niche models (Garp, Maxent) were used to predict the suitable area of C.kiangsu in China. The result shows that the main environmental factors affecting the distribution of C.kiangsu are precipitation of driest month (bio14) and min temperature of coldest month (bio6). No matter now and future, the potential distribution areas of C. kiangsu in China are mainly in the south of Qinling-Huaihe River. The southern part of Hubei, the western part of Jiangxi and the eastern part of Hunan are highly-suitable areas for C. kiangsu under current scenario. As the climate warms in the future scenarios, the southern part of Yunnan, the southeast of Sichuan and the southwest of Chongqing will also become highly-suitable areas. It can be seen that the local vegetation and climate conditions of these areas mentioned above are more suitable for the survival of C. kiangsu. It is recommended that the local forestry authorities strengthen the monitoring of bamboo forests to prevent the damage caused by the introduction of C. kiangsu.
Exploration and verification of a separation method for fine grits and fine debris in sewage
Authors: Xia Zhiheng , Liu Shuai , Zhang Tongtong , Niu Xiaoxu , Luo Yunxiang , Liu Guo-hua , Qi Lu , Wang Hongchen
Published: January 2024

This study proposed a separation method for fine grits (FG, 62.5–250 µm) and fine debris (FD, 62.5–1000 µm) in sewage. The core idea of the separation method was based on "organic matter removal + density separation", and boundary conditions of this method were explored based on the suspension solids contained in actual domestic sewage, and the accuracy of the separation method was confirmed using the recovery experiment of quartz sand. Compared to oxidation-treated samples, acidification-treated samples exhibited enhanced stability, and were less affected by the density separation medium. In addition, compared to when ZnCl2 was used as the separation medium, NaCl had no effect on the quality of the samples, and exerted less effect on the ISS/SS values of FG and FD. Further, the best FG and FD mixture separation effect was achieved when the density separation time was 30 min and the volume of sewage used for FG and FD separation is 10 L. The separation method was performed using exploratory experiments as follows: ① a mixture of FG and FD and organic matter was obtained by the filtration of domestic sewage using a 62.5 µm filter membrane; ② the organic matter was removed by acidification (1 M HCl) + heat treatment at 60 ℃ for 4 h; ③ After separation using a NaCl saturated solution, the particles were filtered to obtain FG and FD. The recovery of the mixed samples was 101.44 ± 0.54%, indicating the efficiency of the method in separating FG and FD from domestic sewage.
Absorption peak decomposition of an inhomogeneous nanoparticle ensemble of hexagonal tungsten bronzes using the reduced Mie scattering integration method
Authors: Machida Keisuke , Adachi Kenji
Published: January 2024

Recent optical analyses of cesium-doped hexagonal tungsten bronze have accurately replicated the absorption peak and identified both plasmonic and polaronic absorptions in the near-infrared region, which have been exploited in various technological applications. However, the absorption peaks of tungsten oxides and bronzes have not generally been reproduced well, including those of the homologous potassium- and rubidium-doped hexagonal tungsten bronzes that lacked evidence of polaronic subpeaks. The present study reports a modified and simplified Mie scattering integration (MSI) method which incorporates the ensemble inhomogeneity effect and allows precise peak decomposition and determination of the physical parameters of nanoparticles. The decomposed peaks were interpreted in terms of electronic structures, screening effect, and modified dielectric functions. The analysis revealed that the plasma frequencies, polaron energies, and the number of oxygen vacancies decrease in the dopant order Cs → Rb → K. The coexistence of plasmonic and polaronic excitations was confirmed for all the alkali-doped hexagonal tungsten bronzes.
Comprehensive procedure for injecting Evusheld® for hematological diseases in a single institute
Authors: Imataki Osamu , Yoshida Shunsuke , Ishida Tomoya , Uemura Makiko , Fujita Haruyuki , Kadowaki Norimitsu
Published: January 2024

Tixagevimab and cilgavimab (EVA, Evusheld®), monoclonal antibody combination treatments, consisted of two neutralizing antibodies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). EVA showed prophylactic and therapeutic effects against coronavirus disease 2019. The Japanese Society of Hematology recommended EVA for such patients with active treatment, but each institution decided on comprehensive administration. We develop a systematic procedure for comprehensive EVA injection in patients with hematological malignancies without any over/under-indication. We listed all patients with the required indications from November 2022 to March 2023. We included 178 cases, 84 females and 94 males, with a median age of 70 (range: 19–90) years. Underlying diseases are myeloid neoplasms in 36 (20%), lymphoid neoplasms in 75 (73%), and others. Indications were intensively hematological malignancy treatment, rituximab treatment within 12 months, burton kinase inhibitor treatment, after chimeric antigen receptor T cell immunotherapy, and after stem cell transplantation in 74 (41%), 73 (41%), 3 (2%), 5 (3%), and 23 (13%) cases, respectively. Of the 178 cases, 22 (12.4%) refused EVA injection. Further, 42 and 136 cases were administered outpatient and inpatient, respectively. Over 95% of the listed cases received EVA injection within 3 months. No severe toxicities were observed among them (N = 156), and 8 (5.2%) cases had breakthrough SARS-CoV-2 infection, which was significantly lower (P = 0.02) than those without EVA (4 [18.2%] of 22 cases). Both groups showed no moderate or severe infection cases. This single-center experience showed that comprehensive EVA injection management effectively generated safer completion with preferable clinical impact.
Seasonal variation and driving factors analysis of Greenland ice sheet mass based on GRACE combination model data
Authors: Shen Yi , Tao Zhen , Bian Yankai , Li Zhen
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the increasing mass loss of the Greenland Ice Sheet (GrIS) has a profound impact on the global sea level and climate change. Although some studies have investigated the rate and acceleration of mass loss in GrIS, research on its seasonal variation is relatively limited. In this regard, we firstly use Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) multi-sourced data to estimate the GrIS mass changes from January 2003 to December 2016. Then, we study the annual variations of ice sheet mass and its driving factors (Modèle Atmosphérique Régionale 3.9 model variables and ice discharge) through singular spectrum analysis (SSA) and wavelet transform analysis. Results show the following: (1) Based on the generalized three-cornered hat method (TCH), the ice sheet mass change obtained from the combined data from different mechanisms, the seasonal annual amplitude variation extracted by SSA is within 200 Gt. (2) In terms of the seasonality, it is also found that the dominant factor of the GrIS mass change is runoff (RU) and ice melt (ME), while snowfall (SF) and rainfall (RF) have little effect on it. Among them, the mean annual amplitudes of the RU and ME are 1.1 and 1.5 times of GRACE respectively, and are not in phase with GRACE. (3) Through the analysis of relative phase and phase approximation, GRACE-derived data has an annual oscillation period with the RU, ME and RF, which lags their phases by 5.2, 5.4 and 4.7 months, respectively, while SF takes only 1.8 months. In addition, the average phase approximation values of the ME and GRACE are larger than those of the RU and RF, while that of the SF is positive. The change trend of the SF is basically opposite to that of the ME, RU and RF, and only consistent in the period 2006–2012.
Targeting CCL5 attenuates fibrosis via activation of PI3k/Akt signaling axis after glaucoma filtration surgery
Authors: Bi Qingyun , Wei Ran , Li Xinying , Zhu Baixue
Published: January 2024

Background.
Glaucoma filtration surgery (GFS) stands as a paramount clinical intervention for glaucoma. Nonetheless, the prevalent cause of GFS failure is filtration bleb scarring, and the role of inflammation and immune response in contributing to fibrosis remains elusive.
Methods.
The study employed 30 female Sprague-Dawley rats (8 weeks old, 200-250g) to assess the anti-scarring impact of the Chemokine (C-C motif) receptor 5 (CCR5)-Chemokine (C-C motif) ligand 5 (CCL5) antibody after GFS. Additionally, anti-fibrotic effects on HConFs were examined, creating an intra-operative inflammatory response using damaged-HConFs supernatant medium (DHSM). In vitro and in vivo validation aimed to elucidate the potential anti-fibrotic molecular mechanism of the CCR5-CCL5 antibody.
Results.
The CCR5-CCL5 antibody effectively prolonged filtration bleb duration and enhanced the functionality of the filtered bleb. Improved postoperative intraocular pressure values (IOP) and morphological images were observed in the CCR5-CCL5 antibody-treated group. Histochemical staining and cellular experiments confirmed the antifibrotic function of the CCR5-CCL5 antibody. Notably, M2-type macrophage polarization was reduced in the CCR5-CCL5 antibody-treated model. CCL5-induced fibrosis in HConFs was mediated through the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. Consistently, inhibition of PI3K/Akt significantly attenuated the profibrotic effects of CCR5-CCL5. Mechanistically, the CCL5 antibody exerts its antifibrotic effect by targeting CCR5 on HConFs, leading to the inhibition of the PI3K/Akt mechanism.
Conclusion.
This study unveils that CCR5-CCL5 promotes fibrosis in GFS through inflammatory stimulation of HConFs and enhanced activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway. The findings suggest that intraoperative CCR5-CCL5 antibody treatment could serve as a cost-effective therapeutic agent or a useful adjuvant in preventing ocular bleb scar formation.
Biomarkers of Gastrointestinal Nematodes in Beef Cattle Raised in a Tropical Area
Authors: Rodrigues Vinícius Duarte , Borges Dyego Gonçalves Lino , Conde Mário Henrique , de Freitas Mariana Green , Ramos Carlos Alberto do Nascimento , de Souza Alda Izabel , Reckziegel Guilherme Henrique , Rodrigues Daniel de Castro , Borges Fernando de Almeida
Published: January 2024

Biomarkers are specific molecular, histological or physiological characteristics of normal or pathogenic biological processes and are promising in the diagnosis of gastrointestinal nematodes (GINs). Although some biomarkers have been validated for infection by Ostertagia sp. in cattle raised in temperate regions, there is a lack of information for tropical regions. The aim of this project was to assess potential biomarkers and validate the most promising. In the first study, 36 bovines (Nelore breed) naturally infected by GINs were distributed into two groups: CON-A (control, not treated with anthelmintic) and TREAT-A (treated with fenbendazole on Days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, 42 and 56). The variables of interest were live weight, fecal egg count, hemogram, serum biochemical markers, phosphorus, gastrin and pepsinogen. In the second step, pepsinogen was assessed in cattle of the Nelore breed distributed among three groups: CON-BC (control, not treated with anthelmintic), TREAT-B (treated with moxidectin) and TREAT-C (treated with ivermectin + albendazole). In the first study, no difference between groups were found for weight, albumin, hematocrit (corpuscular volume [CV]), erythrocytes or hemoglobin. Negative correlations were found between pepsinogen and both CV and albumin, and albumin was negatively correlated with the percentage of Haemonchus sp. in the fecal culture. Among the biomarkers, only pepsinogen differentiated TREAT-A and CON-A (beginning with the 28th day of the study). In the second study, a reduction in pepsinogen was found after anthelmintic treatment. Therefore, pepsinogen is a promising biomarker of worms in cattle naturally infected by the genera Haemonchus and Cooperia in tropical areas.
Improving the Photoelectric Conversion Efficiency of Cs2TiBr6-based Perovskite Solar Cells Using a Theoretical Simulation Method
Authors: Wang TingFeng , Li Shuang , Wang Hong-En
Published: January 2024

While lead-based perovskites stand out as a highly promising material for solar cells, there remains a notable concern related to the possibility of lead leakage. This study utilized the solar cell simulation software (SCAPS-1D) to explore strategies for enhancing the efficiency of lead-free perovskite solar cells and to elucidate the corresponding theoretical mechanisms. A model of the n-i-p FTO/TiO2/Cs2TiBr6/P3HT/Au structure was developed. Employing various modification strategies in experimental setups, the impact of crucial parameters on device performance was investigated by manipulating specific variables. This systematic approach allowed for the identification of the most optimal parameter configuration for enhanced device performance. The device performance was thoroughly examined by evaluating key parameters such as transport layer mobility, energy level matching properties, interface defect concentration, interface capture cross-section area, and perovskite defect concentration/thickness. The investigation revealed that a substantial enhancement in device performance can be achieved by minimizing the defect concentration in the perovskite, augmenting the mobility of the transport layer, refining the energy level alignment with the perovskite, and reducing the interface capture area. The device simulation ultimately resulted in a conversion efficiency of 16.86%. This study provides valuable guidelines for the research and development of novel lead-free double perovskite solar cells.
Counter-pulsation Control of a Pulsatile Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenator Device using Deep Neural Networks for Blood Pressure Waveform Analysis
Authors: Jang Hyunwoo , Yoo Changyoung , Kang Seongmin , Choi Seong Wook
Published: January 2024

The counter-pulsation (CP) control of Pulsatile Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenator(p-ECMO) contributes to reducing the risks associated with conventional ECMO, such as Left Ventricular dilatation and pulmonary edema. To achieve CP between p-ECMO and the heart, it is crucial to detect heartbeats and p-ECMO pulses in blood pressure (BP) waveform data, especially in cases where ECG measurement is challenging. This study aims to develop an algorithm utilizing deep neural network (DNN) to differentiate heartbeats from other pulses caused by p-ECMO, reflections, or motion artifacts in BP data, ensuring accurate CP control. A mock circulation system, replicating human BP waveforms with a heart model was connected to p-ECMO. Two trained DNNs were employed to measure the heart model's heart rate (HR) and evaluate whether p-ECMO operated in CP mode. In asynchronous mode experiments, the frequency of unintentionally occurring CP was only 25.75%. However, when utilizing the proposed algorithm, stable CP was observed, even when the initial pulse rate of p-ECMO differed from that of the heart model. Notably, even when the heart model changed its HR by 5 bpm every minute for 8 minutes within the range of 55 to 75 bpm, the CP success rate remained above 78%.
Suspected Duloxetine-induced restless legs syndrome phenotypic variant: a case report
Authors: Shao Yan , Chen Yi , Wang Shichang , Li Chaowei , Sun Hongqiang , Sun Xinyu
Published: January 2024

Background: Restless arms syndrome (RAS) is the most common variant of restless legs syndrome (RLS), which is easy to be ignored in clinical practice due to the lack of specific diagnostic criteria. When effective therapeutic agents induced RAS and symptoms persisted after briefly observation, clinicians will face the challenge of weighing efficacy against side effects.
Case presentation:A 67-year-old woman was admitted to a geriatric psychiatric ward with depression. Upon admission, the escitalopram dose was reduced from 15 mg to 10 mg per day, and the duloxetine dose was increased from 60 mg to 80 mg per day. The next night before bedtime, she developed itching and creeping sensations deep inside bilateral shoulders and arms, with the urge to move, worsening at rest, and alleviation after hammering. The symptoms persisted when escitalopram was discontinued. A history of RLS was confirmed. Treatment with 40 mg of duloxetine and 0.125 mg of pramipexole significantly improved depression, and the paresthesia disappeared, with no recurrence occurring 6 months after discharge.
Discussion and conclusions: This case suggests that psychiatrists should pay attention to RLS variants when increasing doses of duloxetine. Long-term improvement can be achieved through dosage reduction combined with dopaminergic drugs instead of immediate discontinuation.
Sagittal knee gait changes after medial unicompartmental and total knee arthroplasty – an exploratory analysis of 36 patients
Authors: Hald Julius , Mortensen Jacob , Gleipner-Andersen Emil , Lehmann Leah , Haugaard Asger , Scheike Thomas , Odgaard Anders
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to investigate postoperative developments of sagittal knee gait in a population of knee arthroplasty patients randomized to either unicompartmental or total knee arthroplasty. We hypothesized that knee arthroplasty patients develop greater walking speeds, range of motion, sagittal knee angle velocities, and sagittal knee angle accelerations. 36 patients were recruited from a randomized trial comparing the two implant types. Sagittal knee gait was examined preoperatively, four, and twelve months postoperatively. The examination used inertial measurement units. Nine gait parameters were defined focusing on knee angles, angular velocities, and accelerations. Stride frequency increased by 0.2 s− 1. Walking speed increased by 0.3 m/s. The range of motion increased by 7 degrees. Extension and flexion velocity during knee swing increased by 72 and 49 degrees/second. Acceleration during flexion increased by 565 degrees/second2. Acceleration during extension increased by 1168 degrees/second2. Acceleration after heel strike increased by 1549 degrees/second2. We observed significant developments in sagittal knee gait after knee arthroplasty. Patients developed faster walking speed and greater stride frequency, as well as improvements in range of motion, sagittal knee angle velocities, and accelerations.
Generalized Sampling Expansion for the Quaternion Linear Canonical Transform
Authors: Siddiqui Saima , Li Bingzhao , Samad Muhammad Adnan
Published: January 2024

The theory of quaternions has gained firm ground in recent times and is being widely explored, with the field ofsignal and image processing being no exception. However, many important aspects of quaternionic signals are yet tobe explored, particularly the formulation of Generalized Sampling Expansions (GSE). In the present article, our aim is to formulate the GSE in the realm of a one-dimensional quaternion linear canonical transform (QLCT). To facilitate the intent, we construct a set of quaternion-valued filter functions which are used to construct a system of equations determining the synthesis functions for the process of reconstruction. Besides, as a special case, another sampling formula involving the derivatives of the quaternionic signal is also obtained in the sequel. Since derivatives contain information about the edges and curves appearing in images, therefore, by invoking the higher degrees of freedom pertaining to QLCT, the obtained sampling formula can be used to develop new image scaling algorithms with state-of-the-art flexibility. As an endorsement of the obtained results, an example with simulations demonstrating the signal reconstruction is presented at the end.
Gold Nanostructure-Enhanced Immunosensing: Ultra-Sensitive Detection of VEGF Tumor Marker for Early Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Yarjoo Sadaf , Siampour Hossein , Khalilipour Mehrsa , Sajedi Reza H. , Bagheri Hassan , Moshaii Ahmad
Published: January 2024

We present an advanced electrochemical immunosensor designed for precise detection of the Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF). The sensor is constructed on a modified porous gold electrode through a fabrication process involving the deposition of silver and gold on an FTO substrate. Employing thermal annealing and a de-alloying process, the silver is eliminated from the electrode, resulting in a reproducible porous gold substrate. Utilizing a well-defined protocol, we immobilize the heavy-chain (VHH) antibody against VEGF on the gold substrate, facilitating VEGF detection through various electrochemical methods. Remarkably, this immunosensor achieves an outstanding performance, featuring an impressive detection limit of 0.1pg/ml and an extensive linear range from 0.1pg/ml to 0.1µg/ml. This emphasizes its exceptional ability to precisely measure biomarkers across a wide concentration spectrum. The robust fabrication methodology employed in this research underscores its potential for widespread application, offering enhanced precision, reproducibility, and remarkable detection capabilities for the developed immunosensor.
A pterional dural arteriovenous fistula with a dangerous surprise: the posterior cerebellar artery arising from the middle meningeal artery.
Authors: Lozupone Emilio , Scalise Simona , Trombatore Pietro , Pauciulo Alfredo , Direnzo Vita , Signorelli Francesco , Barbarini Leonardo , Paladini Adriana
Published: January 2024

We describe a case of an adult patient with a left temporal hematoma due to a dural arteriovenous fistula (DAVF) of the pterion. The left middle meningeal artery (MMA) was the major feeding artery of the DAVF and was also supporting the territory of the ipsilateral posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA). This is first case described in the literature of a PICA arising from the MMA. Accurate knowledge of vascular anatomy and its variations is essential for the endovascular treatment of cerebrovascular diseases. A complete diagnostic angiography is crucial to plan the correct endovascular strategy and to minimize the risk of complications.