bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on prediction of welding deformation based on improved GA-BP neural network
Authors: Hongchang Sun , Yuanhui Hao , Yongxiang Jiang , Liang zhiqiang , Yunfei Su , Qiao yingwei
Published: September 2023

Welding deformation prediction can predict the deformation that may occur during the welding process, so that corresponding measures can be taken to control the deformation, so as to improve the manufacturing quality and driving safety of the car body. In this paper, the finite element analysis software is used to simulate the welding process of the load wheel flange plate of the special vehicle body. The load wheel flange plate is one of the main components connecting the load wheel and the body, which can reduce the impact caused by uneven ground or high speed driving, so as to protect the load wheel, axle and body system. In this paper, the finite element analysis model of the load wheel flange is established. Based on the finite element analysis method, the welding deformation data set under different welding voltage, welding current and welding speed is obtained. In this paper, the process parameters of orthogonal experimental design are used for welding, and the deformation of the flange plate of the load wheel after welding is measured by three-dimensional laser scanner. The simulation results of welding deformation are in good agreement with the experimental results, and the relative error is controlled within 9.4%. Therefore, the finite element simulation method in this paper can better reflect the actual welding deformation. In order to improve the efficiency and accuracy of welding deformation prediction, a deformation prediction model based on improved genetic algorithm optimized BP neural network(improved GA-BP)is proposed. The average absolute error MAE and the determination coefficient R2 are used as test parameters to evaluate the accuracy of the established model. The results show that compared with the unimproved BP neural network, the GA-BP model has a 0.04% increase in R2 and a 13.04% decrease in MAE in the performance of the test set, which has a high reference value for the subsequent improvement of welding quality. Finally, the improved GA-BP algorithm model is used to verify the engineering verification of the flange plate of the load wheel obtained by the welding experiment. Based on the improved GA-BP neural network, the error between the predicted value of the welding deformation and the average value of the experimental measurement is within 10%, and the predicted value is consistent with the experimental measurement value. The application value of the improved GA-BP neural network in engineering is verified.
Bioinformatics analysis of ceRNA network of autophagy-related genes in childhood asthma
Authors: Zhu Hao , Shi Jiao , Ruan Rui , Li Wen
Published: September 2023

Background
The key differentially expressed autophagy-related genes(DE-ARGs) in childhood asthma were screened, and lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA networks were constructed to further understand the pathogenesis of asthma.
Methods
DE-ARGs were identified using the Gene Expression Database (GEO) and the Human Autophagy Database. These DE-ARGs were subjected to Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis, and protein-protein interaction network analysis followed by further verification of core gene expression. MiRNAs were inversely predicted using two databases (miRDB and ENCORI), while miRNA-lncRNA interactions were predicted using LncBase and ENCORI databases. After excluding lncRNAs present only in the nucleus and extracellular space, a competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was established and further analyzed. Finally, we validated mRNA expression levels in the ceRNA network by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR).
Results
31 DE-ARGs were obtained, of which 29 were up-regulated and two were down-regulated. Autophagy, regulation of apoptotic signaling pathways, interferon-α/β signaling, interferon γ signaling, autophagy-animal, and apoptosis pathways were mainly enriched in asthma. Five hub genes (VEGFA, CFLAR, RELA, FAS, and ATF6) were further analyzed to verify the expression and diagnostic efficacy of these core genes using the GEO dataset. Finally, four hub genes (VEGFA, CFLAR, RELA, and FAS) were obtained. Through the combination of literature search, ceRNA network mechanism, and predicted miRNAs and lncRNAs analysis, a ceRNA network of four mRNAs (VEGFA, CFLAR, RELA, and FAS), three miRNAs (hsa-miR-320b, hsa-miR-22-3p, and hsa-miR-625-5p), and 35 lncRNAs was finally constructed. qRT-PCR showed that FAS was signifcantly upregulated.
Conclusion
Four DE-ARGs, especially FAS, may play a key role in asthma. The new ceRNA network may help to explore the mechanism of autophagy in asthma, which may be important for the development of new treatment options.
Prevalence of Presenting Bilateral Visual Impairment (PBVI) associated with refractive error – Findings from the See4School, Pre-school Vision Screening Program in NHS Scotland
Authors: Conway Miriam , Pentland Lee
Published: September 2023

Introduction: The See4School programme in Scotland is a pre-school vision screening initiative delivered by orthoptists on a national scale. The primary objective of this programme is to identify common visual conditions such as refractive error, amblyopia, strabismus and binocular vision defects.
Methods: Retrospective anonymised data from vision Screening referrals in Scotland from 2013-2016 were collected. Children underwent an assessment using a crowded logMAR vision test and a small number of orthoptic tests.
Results: During the 3-year period, out of 165,489 eligible children, 141,237 (85.34%) received the vision screening assessment. Among them, 27,010 (19.12%) failed at least one part of the screening and were subsequently referred into the diagnostic pathway, where they received a full sight test. The prevalence of bilateral visual impairment (≥0.3LogMAR), ranged between 1.47% (1.37-1.59) and 2.42% (2.29-2.57).
Discussion: It is estimated that up to 2.42% (2.29-2.57) of children living Scotland have poorer than driving standard of vision (6/12) in their pre-school year. Reduced vision has the potential to impact a child’s their day-to-day life including their future educational, health and social outcomes.
Convolutional neural networks optimized with an improved butterfly optimization algorithm for fault diagnosis
Authors: Wang Yan , Yu Haowen , Wang Xinfa , Wang Yueying , Li Yinhua , Zhao Mingdong
Published: September 2023

The butterfly optimization algorithm (BOA) is a novel swarm intelligence optimization algorithm, which simulates the process of butterfly foraging and courtship. However, BOA suffers from low search accuracy, slow convergence, easily to fall into local optima. To overcome this shortcoming, this paper proposes an improved butterfly optimization algorithm (IBOA). The main idea is to balance the exploration and exploitation of the algorithm by improving the update method of butterfly position. IBOA adopts dynamic switching probability, and balances the global search and local search of a single butterfly by adding an adjustment operator in the global search phase and a sine-cosine operator in the local search phase. This takes full advantage of BOA's global and local searches and enhances communication between butterflies. In order to prove the effectiveness of the IBOA, some benchmark functions are used to verify it. It turns to that the IBOA algorithm is superior to other algorithms. On this basis, IBOA is used to optimize the hyperparameters of convolutional neural network (CNN), and a fault diagnosis model is established. The experimental results of Paderborn bearing data set and continuous stirred tank reactor(CSTR) process data set show that IBOA-CNN model can effectively diagnose industrial data with high diagnosis accuracy, and has obvious advantages compared with other optimization algorithms combined with CNN model.
Comparison of the efficacy of neuronavigation-assisted intracerebral haematoma puncture and drainage with neuroendoscopic haematoma removal in the treatment of hypertensive cerebral haemorrhage
Authors: Jiang Lei , Tian Jinjie , Guo Chao , Zhang Yi , Qian Ming , Wang Xuejian , Wang Zhifeng , Chen Yang
Published: September 2023

Object: Comparison of neuronavigation-assisted intracerebral haematoma puncture and drainage with neuroendoscopic haematoma removal in the treatment of hypertensive cerebral haemorrhage.
Method: Ninety-one patients with hypertensive cerebral haemorrhage admitted to our neurosurgery department from June 2022 to May 2023 were selected, of whom 47 cases underwent endoscopic haematoma removal with the aid of neuronavigation in the observation group A and 44 cases underwent intracerebral haematoma puncture and drainage in the control group B. The duration of surgery, intraoperative bleeding, haematoma clearance rate, pre- and post-operative GCS score, National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score, mRS score and post-operative complications were compared between the two groups.
Result: 1. The duration of surgery, intraoperative bleeding and haematoma clearance were significantly reduced in Group B compared to Group A (p<0.05). 2. No significant differences were seen in the preoperative, 7 days postoperative, 14 days postoperative and 1-month postoperative GCS scores and NIHSS scores between groups A and B. No significant differences were seen in the post-healing mRS scores between the two groups. 3. The incidence of postoperative complications was significantly higher in group B compared to group A (p<0.05), with the most significant incidence of intracranial infection (p<0.05)
Conclusion: Both neuronavigation-assisted intracerebral haematoma puncture and drainage and neuroendoscopic haematoma removal are effective in improving the outcome of patients with hypertensive cerebral haemorrhage. The disadvantage of neuronavigation is that the incidence of complications is significantly higher, and postoperative care and prevention of complications should be strengthened in clinical practice.
Characterization of Pt-Nd co-doped Ti/SnO2-Sb nanosphere electrodes prepared using the hydrothermal method
Authors: Li Yang , Ma Hairun , Li Qianwei , Yan Guangxu , Guo Shaohui
Published: September 2023

Ti/SnO2-Sb electrodes possess high catalytic activity and efficiently degrade nitrobenzene; however, their low service life limits their wide application. In this study, we used one-step hydrothermal synthesis to successfully prepare Pt-Nd co-doped Ti/SnO2-Sb nanosphere electrodes. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were applied to characterize the surface morphology, microstructure and chemical composition of the electrodes, respectively. The electrochemical activity and stability of the electrodes were characterized via linear sweep and cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and an accelerated service life test; their performance for nitrobenzene (NB) degradation was also studied. An appropriate amount of Pt-Nd co-doping refined the average grain size of SnO2 and formed a uniform and compact coating on the electrode surface. The oxygen evolution potential, total voltammetric charge, and electron transfer resistance of the Ti/SnO2-Sb-Nd-Pt electrodes were 1.88 V, 3.77 mC/cm2, and 11.50 Ω, respectively. After Pt-Nd co-doping, the accelerated service life of the electrodes was extended from 8.0 min to 78.2 h (500 mA/cm2); although the NB degradation rate decreased from 94.1–80.6%, the total amount of theoretical catalytic degradation of NB in the effective working time increased from 17.4 mg/cm2 to 8754.1 mg/cm2. These findings reveal good application potential for the electrodes and provide a reference for developing efficient and stable electrode materials.
Coordinative Activities of STAT3 Inhibitor BP-1-102 and Sorafenib Against Proliferation, Angiogenesis and EMT in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Hongmin , Wang Zhuo , Yu Jingting , Yan Ming , Xiao Wen'ang , Li Jia'an
Published: September 2023

Sorafenib, the only standard chemotherapeutic drug for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), exerted unsatisfactory efficacy and resistance in HCC treatment, raising the urgent need to develop effective therapeutic strategies. Based on clinical studies where constitutively activated signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) was observed in patients resistant to sorafenib, we evaluated if an “add-on” strategy can be developed using STAT3 inhibitor, BP-1-102, to potentiate therapeutic outcomes. This strategy aims to reduce sorafenib dosages to avoid adverse systemic reactions and inhibit carcinogenesis to prevent disease relapse. In this study, the in vitro effects of this strategy were examined using proliferation assay, invasion assay, tube formation assay, western analysis, etc. In vivo effects were studied using the ectopic and orthotopic HCC models in athymic BALB/c nude mice. Our results showed that the combination of sorafenib and BP-1-102 synergistically inhibited cellular proliferation, angiogenesis, progression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanism studies revealed that BP-1-102 enhanced the therapeutic effect of sorafenib by coordinatively reducing the transcriptional level of oncogenic STAT3 by reversing the level of p-STAT3(Ser727) which was inhibited by sorafenib. Besides, our findings clearly indicated that STAT3 (Ser727) could repress the STAT3 (Tyr705) level and lead to decreased transcriptional activity of STAT3. Our findings indicate that STAT3 inhibitor is a highly potent sorafenib adjuvant in cancer therapy deserving further development.
The Characteristics of Screen for Tuberculosis among Freshmen in Changping District, Beijing, China
Authors: Cao Xiaolong , Song Zexuan , He Wencong , Yang Zhen , Sun Qian , Wang Yiting , He Ping , Zhao Bing , Zhang Zhiguo , Zhao Yanlin
Published: September 2023

Background Screening for Tuberculosis (TB) is a critical tactic for minimizing the prevalence of illness within schools. Tuberculosis Preventive Therapy (TPT), in turn, effectively staves off the development of TB from latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). Unfortunately, there is limited research on LTBI and TPT among students. This study aimed to assess LTBI in freshmen and advocate for the implementation of TPT. Methods The prospective study collected data from 12 educational institutions within the Changping District of Beijing. Using statistical methods, we analyzed potential factors impacting the LTBI rate, and scrutinized the possible causes behind the low application of TPT and its efficacy for LTBI treatment. Results Among 19872 freshmen included in this study, 18 active TB cases (91/10,0000) and 2236 LTBI cases (11.6%) were identifided, respectively. Furthermore, of those with LTBI, 1045 (5.4%) showed a strong positive for purified protein derivative (PPD), but only 312 opted for TB preventive treatment. There appeared to be no significant difference in the prevalence of LTBI and TPT rate between male and female students. Concurrently, 11 (71/100,000) and 7 (158/100,000) cases of active tuberculosis were identified in 6 universities and 6 higher vocational colleges, respectively. Interestingly, almost all freshmen who underwent TPT came from universities, suggesting a statistically significant disparity in TPT rate (χ2 = 139.829, P < 0.001) between these two types of educational institutions. Meanwhile, as for the age-wise distribution of latent infection among 17–20 years old freshmen, the LTBI rate exhibited 10.5%, 11.6%, 12.1% and 13.5%, respectively. Correlation between LTBI rate, the strong positive rate was statistically significant among different ages (χ2 = 34.559, P < 0.001). Over a follow-up period of 2 years, three students were diagnosed with active tuberculosis, one of which was resistant to rifampicin. All three students manifested a strong positive for PPD and declined preventive treatment during TB screening. Conclusions The data indicates a high rate of LTBI amongst students in areas with a heavy TB burden, potentially leading to cross-regional TB transmission due to the migration of students. Education level might contribute to the limited uptake of TPT. Therefore, improving the implementation of TB preventive treatments is crucial in controlling and preventing TB across schools.
Role of narrative education in cultivating humanistic care and empathy in nursing students
Authors: Huang Qionglei , Zhao Xiaoting , Liu Min , Tang Tang , Song Jiangyan , Li Huiping
Published: September 2023

Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the effects of narrative teaching in “Basic Nursing” course.
Methods The cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted between March 2022 and December 2022 in a university in Anhui, China. Four class clusters comprising 128 nursing students were included in this trial, Participants were trained in narrative education.The Caring Ability Inventory (CAI) and The Jefferson Scale of Empathy–Medical Student version (JSE–MS) were used to evaluate humanistic care ability and empathy of nursing students in pre- and post-intervention.Colaizzi data analysis was used to analyze nursing students' reflection diaries.
Results The results showed that the after-narrative education, the humanistic care ability score and the empathy score was higher than pre- intervention (P<0.05). Three themes emerged from the reflective diary analysis:increasing the teaching effect, enhancing the humanistic care ability, and improving the empathy ability of nursing students.
Conclusion The results of this study suggest that narrative education improved humanistic care ability and empathy, and enhanced the learning effect of nursing students.
A comprehensive pan-cancer analysis and prediction model revealed that FAM189A2 is an immune-related gene and a prognostic biomarker for esophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Junqi , Mi Junjie , Wang Rong , Yang Zhiping
Published: September 2023

Background Recent research indicates that FAM189A2 plays a significant role in the development of various types of cancer. However, its aberrant expression and prognostic value in human esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) have not been thoroughly described. The study aimed to assess the prognostic value of FAM189A2 in EAC.Materials and Methods The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases for patients with EAC, as well as 32 other types of cancer, were searched in this study to retrieve the expression profiles and clinical information. Using the R package DESeq2, we performed differential gene analysis between the high and low FAM189A2 expression groups. The enrichment analysis of the differential genes using the ClusterProfiler package was then conducted. In addition, the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) algorithm was employed to analyze immune infiltration in the high and low FAM189A2 expression groups. Univariate and multivariate Cox analyses were conducted to construct prognostic models based on FAM189A2 expression. Finally, we analyzed the prognostic value of FAM189A2 in both EAC and pan-cancer.Results The enrichment analysis revealed a significant association between FAM189A2 and cholesterol metabolism, as well as complementary coagulation. The analysis of immune infiltration indicated a positive correlation between FAM189A2 and mast cells and CD8 T cells. Low expression of FAM189A2 was identified as an independent poor prognostic factor for overall survival (OS). Moreover, the abnormal expression of FAM189A2 was found to impact the prognosis of several cancers, including EAC.Conclusions Our findings demonstrate, for the first time, the influence of FAM189A2 on the prognosis of EAC. These results lay the foundation for future studies investigating the relationship between FAM189A2 and EAC.
Insurance retreat in residential properties from future sea level rise
Authors: Storey Belinda , Owen Sally , Zammit Christian , Noy Ilan
Published: September 2023

How will the increased frequency of coastal inundation events induced by sea level rise impact residential insurance premiums, and when would insurance contracts be withdrawn? We model the contribution of localised sea level rise to the increased frequency of coastal inundation events. Examining four Aotearoa New Zealand cities, we combine historical tide-gauge extremes with geo-located property data to estimate the annual expected loss from this hazard, for each property, to establish when insurance retreat is likely to occur. We find that as sea level rise changes the frequency of inundation events, 99% of properties currently within 1% AEP coastal inundation zones can expect at least partial insurance retreat within a decade (associated with less than 10cm of sea level rise). Our modelling predicts that full insurance retreat is likely within 20 - 25 years, with timing dependent on the tidal range in each location, and, more intuitively, on the property’s elevation and distance from the coast.
Architecture for sub-100 ms Liquid Crystal Reconfigurable Intelligent Surface Based on Defected Delay Lines
Authors: Neuder Robin , Späth Marc , Schüßler Martin , Jiménez-Sáez Alejandro
Published: September 2023

Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces (RISs), comprised of passive tunable elements, are emerging as an essential device for upcoming Millimeter Wave and Terahertz wireless systems. A fundamental aspect of the device involves the tuning technology used to achieve reconfigurability. Among alternatives such as semiconductors and MEMS, Liquid Crystal (LC) offers advantages such as cost- and power-effective large-panel scalability. In this context, conventional LC-RIS approaches face limitations in optimizing for bandwidth, response time and loss simultaneously, requiring trade-offs between them. In this work, we detail a new architecture for LC-RIS with compact defected delay lines that provide continuous, 360-degree tunability, enabling RISs with fast response time, wide bandwidth and low loss. A RIS with a thin 4.6 μm LC layer is designed, fabricated, and characterized, exhibiting response times of 72 milliseconds, insertion losses below 7 dB, and a 6 GHz (10.9%) bandwidth at 62 GHz, all while utilizing a lossy glass substrate and gold as a conductor.
No Prognostic Impact of Staging Bone Scan in Patients with Stage IA Non–Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zheng Xia , Li Chunxia , Ai Jing , Dong Guili , Long Man , Li Mingyi , Qiu Shilin , Huang Yanni , Yang Guangjun , Zhang Tao , Li Zhenhui
Published: September 2023

Purpose To investigate the survival benefit of preoperative bone scan in asymptomatic patients with early-stage non–small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Materials and Methods This retrospective study included patients with radical resection for stage T1N0M0 NSCLC between March 2013 and December 2018. During postoperative follow-up, we monitored patient survival and the development of bone metastasis. We compared overall survival, bone metastasis-free survival, and recurrence-free survival in patients with or without preoperative bone scan. Propensity score matching and inverse probability of treatment weighting were used to minimize election bias. Results A total of 868 patients (58.19 ± 9.69 years; 415 men) were included in the study. Of 7% (761 of 868) underwent preoperative bone scan. In the multivariable analyses, bone scan did not improve overall survival (hazard ratio [HR], 1.49; 95% confidence intervals [CI]: 0.91–2.42;p = 0.113), bone metastasis-free survival (HR, 1.18; 95% CI: 0.73–1.90;p = 0.551), and recurrence-free survival (HR, 0.89; 95% CI: 0.58–1.39;p = 0.618). Similar results were obtained after propensity score matching (overall survival [HR, 1.28; 95% CI: 0.74–2.23;p = 0.379], bone metastasis-free survival [HR, 1.00; 95% CI: 0.58–1.72;p = 0.997], and recurrence-free survival [HR, 0.76; 95% CI: 0.46–1.24;p = 0.270]) and inverse probability of treatment weighting. Conclusion There were no significant differences in overall survival, bone metastasis-free survival, and recurrence-free survival between asymptomatic patients with clinical stage IA NSCLC with or without preoperative bone scan.
Individual variations in motives for nicotine self-administration in rats: evidence in support for a precision psychopharmacology
Authors: Deroche-Gamonet Veronique , Garcia-Rivas Vernon , Fiancette Jean-François , Tostain Jessica , de Maio Giulia , Ceau Matias , Wiart Jean-François , Gaulier Jean-Michel
Published: September 2023

The significant heterogeneity in smoking behavior among smokers, coupled with the inconsistent efficacy of approved smoking cessation therapies, supports the presence of individual variations in the mechanisms underlying smoking. This emphasizes the need to shift from standardized to personalized smoking cessation therapies. However, informed precision medicine demands precision fundamental research. Tobacco smoking is influenced and sustained by diverse psychopharmacological interactions between nicotine and environmental stimuli. In the classical experimental model for studying tobacco dependence, namely intravenous self-administration of nicotine, seeking behavior is reinforced by the combined delivery of nicotine and a discrete cue (nicotine + cue). Now whether self-administration behavior is driven by the same psychopharmacological mechanisms across individual rats remains unknown and unexplored. To address this, we employed behavioral pharmacology and unbiased cluster analysis to investigate individual differences in the mechanisms supporting classical intravenous nicotine self-administration (0.04 mg/kg/infusion) in male outbred Sprague-Dawley rats. Our analysis identified two clusters: one subset of rats sought nicotine primarily for its reinforcing effects, while the second subset sought nicotine to enhance the reinforcing effects of the discrete cue. Varenicline (1 mg/kg i.p.) reduced seeking behavior in the former group, whereas it tended to increase it in the latter group. Crucially, despite this fundamental qualitative difference revealed by behavioral manipulation, the two clusters exhibited quantitatively identical nicotine + cue self-administration behavior. The traditional application of rodent models to study the reinforcing and addictive effects of nicotine may mask individual variability in the underlying motivational mechanisms. Accounting for this variability could significantly enhance the predictive validity of translational research.
Analgesia-Nociception Index Accurately Predicts Inadequate Pectoralis Muscle Fascia Block (PECS) in Patients Undergoing Breast Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Teng Wei-Nung , Lin Yen-Shu , Sung Chun-Sung , Tseng Ling-Ming , Chang Wen-Kuei , Ting Chien-Kun
Published: September 2023

Background
Postoperative opioid administration has been largely replaced by regional anesthesia techniques. We aimed to determine whether the intraoperative Analgesia-Nociception Index (ANI) can aid in early evaluation of the effectiveness of regional blocks such as the pectoralis muscle fascia block (PECS) and predicting the need for analgesics postoperatively.
Methods
This observational study enrolled 30 women (age: 20–80 years) undergoing unilateral, non-intubated, breast tumor excision alone or in conjunction with sentinel lymph node biopsy. PECS block was performed following sedation. ANI readings were obtained at 1-minute intervals, and polar coordinates were assigned to the distance from the nipple (0.5-cm intervals) and o’clock position (15-min intervals) for each reading. Pain scores were assessed using a numeric rating scale from 0–10, and analgesics were administered depending on the pain score (0–3: nil, ≥ 4: tramadol, 100 mg; ≥4 after 30 minutes: morphine, 3 mg).
Results
8 (27%), 19 (63%), and 3 (10%) patients received morphine, tramadol, and no analgesics, respectively. In total, 954 ANI measurements were obtained. At the proposed cut-off of 50, the sensitivity and specificity of the ANI nadir for need of post-operative opioids were 0.875 and 0.932, respectively. Block effectiveness was most satisfactory in the upper lateral quadrant of the breast with nipple–areolar complex (NAC) sparing effect. Most average ANI measurements for the NAC were < 50. No patient experienced postoperative nausea/vomiting, although one reported dizziness.
Conclusions
The intraoperative ANI nadir < 50 was strongly correlated with the need for postoperative opioids. The ANI may aid in objectively evaluating the effectiveness of pectoralis muscle fascial blocks and predicting postoperative need for analgesics.
Serum Biomarkers Discovered by SomaScan in Patients with Severe Low Back Pain
Authors: Zhang Yejia , Tate Quinn , Markova Dessislava , Shofer Frances S. Shofer , Chen Ken , Kepler Christopher , Canseco Jose , Dillingham Timothy Dillingham
Published: September 2023

Low back pain is a common clinical problem. Although imaging studies are widely used to evaluate back pain, the link between low back pain and intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration on images is unclear in many cases 1. Biomarkers for discogenic pain have been examined with candidate marker approaches in the past 2. In this study, we used a proteomic approach to examine 1512 serum proteins. Biomarkers identified include molecules known to correlate with back pain, as well as novel molecules. Biomarker signatures discovered clearly distinguish patients with low back pain from normal controls. Further, a comparison of back pain patients < 40 years of age and similarly aged healthy controls showed that inflammation-related pathways were upregulated in the patients, with leukocyte proliferation pathway the most enriched, and STAT3 (signal transducer and activator of transcription 3) showing the largest number of protein-protein interactions. Among the downregulated biomarkers comparing these two cohorts, SMAD protein phosphorylation pathway was the most enriched, and IL6 (interleukin 6) the most connected. Markers in older back pain patients ≥ 40 years of age differed from younger patients in immune-related pathways, while CD36 (cluster of differentiation 36) has the most interactions with other proteins. Overrepresented pathways and proteins with the largest network connections may be effective treatment targets. Future work includes studying these differences in a larger case-controlled population, expanding the number of proteins considered, and completing a confirmative, quantitative assay for key markers. Following up with patients for their function and pain level would further confirm the diagnostic and prognostic values of the biomarkers identified.
Effects of TMEM232 variant on blood lymphocyte counts in relation to incidence of infant atopic dermatitis
Authors: Choi Eun-A , Han Hee-Soo , Nah Guemkyung , Lee So-Yeon , Kim Young-Youl , Hong Soo-Jong , Lee Hye-Ja
Published: September 2023

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is caused by interactions between genetic susceptibility and environmental factors. Transmembrane protein 232 (TMEM232) is one of the genes strongly implicated in AD. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the association between AD with variants within TMEM232 based on environmental factors, including feeding method. We performed a candidate gene association study involving the Cohort for Childhood Origins of Asthma and Allergic Diseases (infants, n = 1,054). A single variant of the TMEM232 gene, rs17132261, was found to be significantly associated with AD. Subjects carrying the wild-type allele (C) of rs17132261 had lower blood lymphocyte count than those carrying the variant rs17132261 (T). Multiple logistic regression analysis showed a statistically significant association between TMEM232 gene polymorphism and an increased risk of AD in one year old infants. Moreover, rs17132261 was associated with decreased blood lymphocyte counts in infants breastfed for six months. The group with the CC genotype showed lower lymphocyte counts than CT and TT carriers when breastfed. Our findings demonstrate that the TMEM232 risk allele, in combination with breastfeeding, lowers the number of lymphocytes, which could be a potential risk factor for AD.
Triggering Triplet Excitons of Carbon Nanodots for Multicolor Phosphorescence in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Liu Kai-Kai , Liang Ya-Chuan , Cao Qing , Deng Yuan , Wang Yong , Song Shi-Yu , Zhao Wen-Bo , Dong Lin , Shan Chong-Xin
Published: September 2023

Easy non-radiative decay property of long-lived triplet excitons in aqueous solution obstruct their applications in aquatic surroundings. Recently reported phosphorescence phenomena in aqueous solution have excited researchers enormously but achieving full-color water-soluble phosphorescent carbon nanodots (CNDs) is still a challenging issue. Herein, full-color phosphorescence of water-soluble CNDs has been demonstrated by triggering their triplet excitons within a nanospace, and Förster energy resonance transfer is used for further tuning phosphorescence range. The phosphorescence spans across most of the visible spectrum, ranging from 400 nm to 700 nm. In an aqueous solution, the CNDs exhibits blue, green, and red phosphorescence, lasting for approximately 6, 10, and 7 seconds, respectively. Correspondingly, the phosphorescence quantum yields are 11.85%, 8.6% and 3.56%, making them readily discernible to the naked eyes and laying a solid foundation for practical application. Furthermore, phosphorescence flexible optical display and bioimaging have been demonstrated by using the multicolor CNDs-based nanomaterials, showing distinct superiority for accuracy and complete display and imaging in complex emission background.
Why climate models underestimate the exacerbated warming in Western Europe
Authors: Schumacher Dominik , Singh Jitendra , Hauser Mathias , Fischer Erich , Seneviratne Sonia
Published: September 2023

Much of Western Europe has experienced mean summer temperature increases about three times higher than the globe since 1980. Particularly the regional (RCMs), but also global climate models (GCMs) underestimate this strong observed warming of ≈2.3 °C, which is largely thermodynamic but also fuelled by dynamics. RCM- and GCM-simulated atmospheric circulation effects on temperature trends are generally weaker, partly explaining the warming underestimation yet not indicating a model deficiency. Most RCM simulations from the Coordinated Regional Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX), however, omit time-evolving aerosols, and hence fail to capture increasing net radiation due to aerosol reductions. This introduces a bias to the CORDEX RCM multimodel ensemble that is partly masked by overestimated background warming in the driving GCMs. Accounting for the latter, the thermodynamic warming — 1.6 °C for 1980–2022 — is underestimated by nearly 40% (0.6 °C) in simulations with constant aerosols. This mismatch is even stronger for heatwaves than summer means, and manifests increasingly clearly in climate projections throughout the ongoing century. Our results imply that the future warming in Europe is likely to be higher than earlier assumed, as only part of the discrepancy between most RCM simulations and observations can be attributed to internal climate variability.
A Novel Psychiatric Phenotype of Chromosome 4q Deletion: A case report
Authors: Vaithilingam Sarah L , Garrison Sheldon , Krantz Julia , Mahajan Aman , Diener John
Published: September 2023

Background Chromosome 4q deletion is a rare genetic disorder affecting an estimated 1 out of 100,000 people, although there are relatively few reports in the literature. It is characterized by microdeletions of the long arm of chromosome 4 with variable clinical presentations including heart defects, craniofacial and skeletal abnormalities, short stature, and developmental delays. While behavioral and psychiatric symptoms have been reported in a small number of Chromosome 4q deletion patients, none of these reports have described the hyperphagia or parasomnia symptoms that are presented in the current case.Case presentation A 7-year-old male patient presented with a microdeletion of the long arm of chromosome 4 that resulted in psychiatric symptoms and neurodevelopmental delays. Notable manifestations included aggression, hyperphagia, parasomnias, functional encopresis and speech delays. At inpatient admission, a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosis and treatment was adopted, encompassing pharmacological and behavioral interventions. His initial treatment was markedly delayed due to limited genetic testing at age one, which led to a misdiagnosis of childhood aggression. This limited the care team involvement for neurologic evaluation and appropriate school interventions that would have otherwise been indicated.Conclusion Chromosome 4q deletion -related behaviors parallel that of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and treatment is primarily focused on behavioral interventions. In the current case, the patient’s attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) was treated, and his individualized education plan (IEP) recommendations included a functional behavioral assessment, the Behavioral Assessment System for Children, occupational therapy services and speech and language services. Following a 4-day inpatient stay, the patient demonstrated a significant decrease in aggressive behaviors.
Fully-Biodegradable and Self-Deployable Electronic Tent for Brain Cortex
Authors: Kang Seung-Kyun , Bae Jae-Young , Hwang Gyeong-Seok , Kim Young-Seo , Jeon Jooik , Chae Min-Seong , Kim Joon-Woo , Kim Seongchan , Choi Sung-Geun , Lee Ju-Yong , Lee Jae-Hwan , Kim Kyung-Sub , Lee Woo-Jin , Lee Sian , Lee Hyojin , Kim Yu-Chan , Lee Kang-Sik , Kim Jeonghyun , Hyun Jung Keun , Kim Ju-Young
Published: September 2023

The large-area and high-density electronic interfaces for the cortex stands as a crucial enabler for brain-computer interfaces, facilitating synchronization between cognitive functions and motor activities, as well as aiding in the diagnosis neuropathic brain disorders in the realm of cognitive neuroscience and clinical neurology. Nevertheless, the current implantation procedures pose significant challenges that, subject patients to invasiveness throughout the entire interventional procedure. Here, we introduce a fully-biodegradable and self-deployable platform with multimodal inorganic electronics, which can be programmably-packaged and self-deployed using syringe for minimally invasive delivery through a small hole. After use, it naturally decomposes within the body, minimizing invasiveness from initial insertion surgery to subsequent removal. In vivo demonstration shows the potential of minimally invasive cortical-interfacing platform for manipulating large areas of cortical activities.
Understanding rigor mortis impacts on fish gamete viability
Authors: Dantas Renata Villar , Marques Lis Santos , Freitas Thaiza Rodrigues , Teixeira Nathalia Santos , Rodrigues Rômulo Batista , Benato Jhony Lisboa , Santos Raquel Santos dos , Streit Danilo Pedro
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to evaluate the viability of reproductive gametes in zebrafish (Danio rerio), at different rigor mortis stages. Viability assessments were conducted on oocytes at various developmental stages using LIVE/DEAD and the 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) reduction assay. For sperm evaluation, both kinetic (CASA) and morphological assessments (Rose Bengal staining) were performed. Results demonstrated that rigor mortis progression significantly impacted oocyte viability during post-rigor stages, with the following viability rates: pre-rigor (70.43 ± 12.31%), fresh/control (46.43 ± 12.54%), post-rigor (27.62 ± 22.29%), and rigor mortis (comparable to fresh/control). Conversely, sperm kinetics exhibited nuanced responses to the rigor mortis stages, with specific parameters showing sensitivity, whereas the others remained relatively stable. Sperm motility was higher in the fresh/control (63.23 ± 19.03%) and pre-rigor (58.96 ± 14.38%) compared to the post-rigor group (3.34 ± 4.65%). This study highlights the significance of the pre-rigor for successful gamete collection and preservation. These findings provide valuable insights for conservation efforts and optimization of genetic resource management for endangered fish species. This study aimed to develop effective assistive reproductive techniques by elucidating the interplay between rigor mortis and gamete quality, contributing to the broader goals of species conservation and maintenance of genetic diversity in fish populations.
Molecular detection of Cryptosporidium spp. and Microsporidia in human and animal stool samples
Authors: Gómez-Romano María Teresa , Rodriguez-Iglesias Manuel Antonio , Sánchez Fátima Galán
Published: September 2023

Purpose Cryptosporidium spp. and Enterocytozoon bieneusi, are opportunistic microorganisms having remarkable zoonotic transmission potential due to their capacity to infect humans and animals. The aim of this study is to evaluate the prevalence of these microorganisms in stool samples from animal and human origin.
Methods Three hundred and sixty nine stool samples (205 from human patients with diarrhea and 164 of animal origin) were included in the study. Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi presence was determined by multiplex nested PCR. Positive results were analyzed by Sanger sequencing of the amplicon, using BLASTN and ClustalX software, to confirm identification.
Results Cryptosporidium spp. was found in 0.97% and 4.26% of human and animal samples, respectively (1 cat; 3 dogs, 1 goat and 1 Russian hamster). E. bieneusi was detected on human and animal stools (4 dogs and 1 pig), in the 6.82 % and 3.05% of the samples respectively.
Conclusion This study evidences the presence of Cryptosporidium spp. and E. bieneusi in human and animal samples from different species, and has as most interesting findings the detection of Cryptosporidium spp in pets that are not usually included in this type of studies, such as rodents and the identification of E. bieneusi in patients with diarrhea of different age groups and without underlying disease.
Viral contamination in shellfish growing areas during normal harvesting periods and following wastewater overflows in an urban estuary with complex hydrography
Authors: Carlos Campos , Hewitt Joanne , Gyawali Pradip
Published: September 2023

Knowledge of the dispersive characteristics and time of travel of microbiological contamination is a key consideration in determining impacts on shellfish growing areas following wastewater overflows. In this study, norovirus genogroup I and II, indicators of viral contamination (F-RNA bacteriophage genogroup II (F-RNA GII), crAssphage, pepper mild mottle virus) and Escherichia coli were monitored during periods of normal harvesting and following overflows in two commercial shellfish growing areas in Otago Harbour (Aotearoa New Zealand). Hydrographic studies (dye tracing, drogue tracking and analysis of particle tracking modelling) were undertaken to assess the dispersion, dilution and time of travel of wastewater discharged from a pump station discharge that impacts the growing areas. Norovirus was not detected in any of the 218 shellfish samples tested. PMMoV and crAssphage were more prevalent than F-RNA GII as determined by RT-qPCR. The dye study indicated long residence time of the waters (≥ 5 days) in the embayment impacted by the discharge. No relationships were found between the concentrations of viral indicators or E. coli and wastewater dilution, distance between the discharge and the growing areas or time since the last overflow. For the three spills studied (≤ 327 m3), there was little evidence of microbiological impact on the growing areas. This was likely associated with a deep shipping channel that enhances water flushing in the harbour and reduces contaminant transport to the growing areas. We recommend flexibility in the approach for closure/reopening growing areas impacted by spills, particularly for small duration/volume spills and when norovirus is not present in the community.
Association between gut microbiota and diabetic nephropathy: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Lin Rui , Chen Rongping
Published: September 2023

In recent years, with the improvement in living standards, the incidence of diabetes has been increasing year by year. Diabetic nephropathy(DN), as one of the most common complications of diabetes, also has an increasing incidence. Some existing clinical studies and reviews have revealed a connection between diabetic nephropathy and gut microbiota(GM), but whether there is a causal relationship between the two is still unclear. Exploring the causal relationship between diabetic nephropathy and gut microbiota can help with disease screening and provide new biomarkers. This study used a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis, using 4,111 DN patients from the GWAS database and 308,539 control group members, to attempt to find gut microbiota categories among the 211 types that have a causal relationship with diabetic nephropathy. Further heterogeneity and sensitivity analysis were conducted to eliminate the influence of confounding factors on the experimental results. Ultimately, 15 types of gut microbiota were found to have a causal relationship with diabetic nephropathy, providing hints and new treatment directions for clinical research.
Vertically asymmetric channels of graphene oxide membrane for ultrafast ion sieving
Authors: Chen Liang , Han Changdao , Zhao Wenhui , Liu Junfan , Lan Jian , Hu Shouyuan , Yang Huan , Zhou Feng , Fan Yan , Duan Xiangmei , Li Pei
Published: September 2023

The high performance of two-dimensional (2D) channel membranes is generally achieved by preparing ultrathin or forming short channels with less tortuous transport through self-assembly of small flakes, demonstrating potential for highly efficient water desalination and purification, gas and ion separation, and organic solvent waste treatment. Here, we report the construction of vertical channels in graphene oxide (GO) membrane based on a substrate template with asymmetric pores. The membranes achieve an unprecedented water permeance of 2647 L m-2 h-1 bar-1 while still maintaining an ultrahigh rejection rate of 99.9% for heavy metal ions, which is far superior to the state-of-the-art 2D membranes reported. Furthermore, the membranes exhibit excellent stability during long-term filtration experiments for at least 48 hours, as well as resistance to ultrasonic treatment for over 100 minutes. The vertical channels possess very short pathway for almost direct water transport and a high effective channel area, meanwhile the asymmetric porous template enhance the packing of the inserted GO nanosheets to avoid the swelling effect of membrane. Our work provides a simple way to fabricate vertical channels of 2D nanofiltration membranes with outstanding water purification performance.
A queueing system with Erlang-distributed replenishment time, multiple vacations and continuous-type inventory
Authors: Li Linhong , Liu Liwei , Xu Wei
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we consider a continuous-type inventory system with positive service time, Erlang distributed leading time, and multiple vacations. The inventory policy is (r, Q). Once the inventory level is less than r, the manager sends a replenishment request to the external supplier. After a replenishment time obeying the Erlang distribution, a fixed replenishment quantity Q arrives in the system. If, during this period, the inventory is depleted, the server takes multiple vacations. We assume that the lost sale occurs while the server is on vacation. Normal service begins once the server returns from a vacation and sees that the system inventory is Q. We introduce a continuous-type inventory model with zero service time. We also prove that the steady-state probability distribution of the original model can be decomposed into the product of the distribution of the queue length of the classical M/M/1 queueing model and the inventory distribution of the continuous-type inventory model with zero service time. Numerica examples display the effects of parameters on the performance measures and the optimal system cost.