bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WORMESH-I: Introducing a Robot Concept Bio-Inspired by Flatworms, Developing a Mechanical Model, and Creating Locomotion via Pedal Waves
Authors: Hodoshima Ryuichi , Sato Kunihiko , Rasanga Ganegoda Vidanage Charaka , Kotosaka Shinya
Published: December 2024

Flatworms exhibit remarkable pedal-wave-driven locomotion abilities through their dorsoventrally flattened, bilaterally symmetrical bodies, which glide smoothly across various surfaces. This study introduces a bio-inspired mobile robot prototype designed to mimic flatworm movement that leverage the advantages of pedal locomotion on challenging terrains. The robot design includes a mesh-like structure with interconnected body modules linked via multi-degree-of-freedom joints for enhanced movement versatility. A modified universal joint that functions as a constant-velocity joint connects the modules, thereby enabling complex motion patterns. We explored four types of traveling waves, inspired by gastropod locomotion to achieve diverse movements, including translational, spinning, and omnidirectional motions. This study comprehensively examines the movement characteristics and performance of the prototype, highlighting its potential applications in complex environments in which traditional locomotion methods are less effective.
LiDAR Based Road Detection and Control for Agricultural Vehicles
Authors: Kurashiki Keita , Kono Kazuki , Fukao Takanori
Published: December 2024

Recently, the population of agricultural workers in Japan has been declining and aging. As a result, labor shortages have become a serious problem in the agricultural industry. However, the strong dependence on food imports has become a problem. To address this situation, it is necessary to increase the efficiency of food production by automating agricultural work. In this study, we focus on transportation in farming, and develop an unmanned transportation truck. Farm roads are often unpaved or otherwise uneven, and the surrounding environment changes dramatically depending on road surface conditions, vegetation, weather, and season. To realize an unmanned transportation system, achieving robust environmental recognition and operational control is important. Although it is almost certain that no single method can manage all situations for this goal, as part of the system, we propose a method for generating a target path for farming environments using 3D LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and apply a control law to follow the path on uneven surfaces robustly. Furthermore, we generate two types of paths, one based on the center of the drivable area and the other based on road surface geometry, and integrate them into a target path based on their reliability. A nonlinear path-following control law is designed to follow the target path. The proposed method was applied to an experimental truck, and stability was achieved on a real farm road.
Manipulability Analysis of Anterior and Mediolateral Dynamic Gait Stability of Young and Elderly Individuals
Authors: Watanabe Hiroki , Okamoto Shogo , Kuroda Tomohito , Akiyama Yasuhiro
Published: December 2024

Humans maintain postural stability while walking by modulating their spatiotemporal walking features. It is crucial for humans to be able to restore stability in the event of a transient loss. However, the ease of adjusting postural stability has not yet been investigated extensively. This study applied manipulability, a concept widely used in robotics, to analyze the margin of stability (MoS), a measure of dynamic postural stability. The MoS values along each of the anterior and mediolateral directions were modeled as a function of spatiotemporal gait parameters, and the manipulability of the MoS was computed. We observed differences in manipulability between two age groups (60 healthy elderly adults and 60 healthy young individuals in their 20s) from an open database. The manipulability of the elderly was significantly higher than that of the young, suggesting that the elderly employed walking postures that allowed them to adjust their stability with relative ease. Furthermore, for the young group, the manipulability tended to be low when the mediolateral stability was low, with a correlation coefficient of 0.67. In contrast, the elderly group did not exhibit this relationship, showing differences in walking strategies between young and elderly individuals. The manipulability analysis of dynamic gait stability provides insights into revealing human gait strategies.
ANALYSIS OF THE STRUCTURAL DESIGN OF MINE FURNACES AND RESEARCH OF THE HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCT OBTAINED DURING FIRING PROCESS
Authors: Vytiaganets Valentin , Pitak Inna
Published: December 2024

An analysis of mine furnaces for calcining limestone was carried out. Deficiencies in the operation of modern furnaces during the firing of polydisperse limestone were revealed. The proposed design of the furnace with increased efficiency provides an increase in productivity by 20‒25%, disposal of waste carbonate raw materials, and a reduction in heat consumption by 10%. During experimental studies, the kinetic processes of burning were established. Furnace operating data with recommended structural changes are provided. The question of the distribution of flue gases along the section of the mine furnace, the nature of the movement of material and gas, and the kinetics of the process were considered. The issue of the use of gaseous fuel in mine blast furnaces for the production of quicklime is considered. Studies of high-quality limestone obtained in the firing process in a mine furnace have been conducted. According to the results of scanning electron microscopy, it was proved that the product obtained in the firing process is 100% calcium oxide without additional impurities or harmful substances. Based on the results of porosimetry, the resulting lime was examined, and aspects of the material’s porous structure were determined, such as the diameter and total volume of pores, surface area, bulk and absolute densities. Based on the results of porosimetry, it was established that the material contains macropores and exhibits a combination of slotted and cylindrical pores. Using nitrogen porosimetry (using the BET method), the surface area was determined, which was 84.0 m2/g. The correlation between the pore diameter and the surface area was determined using the DFT (density functional theory) method, and the following was established: the specific surface area of the material is 66.59 m2/g; total pore volume – 0.18 cm3/g; the diameter of the pores is 4.08 nm. It was also established that the test sample contained different groups of pores in the range from 0.54 nm to 33.24 nm. The pore groups had a bimodal distribution in the material, and the pores with smaller diameters were slit-shaped, while pores with larger diameters appeared as cylindrical pores. Cylindrical pores are the result of thermochemical transformations involving constituent components.
INFLUENCE OF THE NATURE OF THE PRECIPITANT ON THE MAGNETIC PROPERTIES OF COBALT FERRITE
Authors: Frolova Liliya , Rodin Dmytro
Published: December 2024

The field of use of cobalt ferrites, the main physicochemical properties (resistance to external conditions, corrosion resistance, high values of coercive force and saturation magnetization) are analyzed. It is substantiated that the special properties are determined primarily by the dispersed and phase composition, the arrangement of cations in octahedral and tetrahedral positions, which are related to the technology and conditions of their production. The paper deals with the synthesis of CoFe2O4 ferrites by a modified coprecipitation method, which includes the coprecipitation stage and subsequent treatment with a low-temperature non-equilibrium contact plasma. X-ray phase analysis and vibrational magnetometry were used to characterize the obtained samples. The paper presents the results of constructing the diagrams of Сomposition–Saturation magnetization and Composition–Coercive force for cobalt ferrite (alkalis in the NaOH–LiOH–KOH system was used as precipitants). The use of the simplex lattice method of experiment planning made it possible to obtain mathematical models describing the dependence of properties on composition in the form of a continuous function. To describe the dependence of properties on the composition of the precipitant, a mathematical model in the form of a polynomial of the third degree was chosen. The saturation magnetization and coercive force were determined from the hysteresis loop constructed from vibrational magnetometry data. Summarizing the results of mathematical modeling and graphical display of experimental data, presented in the form of composition-property diagrams, made it possible to quantitatively assess the influence of the nature of the precipitant on the magnetic properties of cobalt ferrites. The saturation magnetization for samples obtained using sodium hydroxide is much higher than in other samples (Ms is 136.0 A m2/kg for NaOH). High values of saturation magnetization also apply to samples along the NaOH–LiOH line. Statistical processing of the data was carried out using Pareto charts and the residual values of the response function were used to estimate the normal distribution of the data. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to investigate the fit of the model to the experimental results. To assess the significance of the coefficients, a Pareto diagram was constructed, and the Fisher test was used to check the adequacy of the model.
DEVELOPMENT OF THE PROTOTYPE OF THE AUTOMATED SYSTEM FOR CREATING ACCOMPANYING DOCUMENTS OF THE EDUCATIONAL PROCESS
Authors: Tsybulnyk Serhii , Nakoryk Viktoriia , Pivtorak Diana
Published: December 2024

Automated systems in the field of education have significant potential for development and improvement of the educational process. Their effectiveness lies not only in speed, but also in the possibility of creating conditions for a more accessible and personalized learning process. The implementation of these systems helps to create an optimal environment for learning, but requires a careful approach to achieve the best results. One of the key aspects of automation in this field is the creation, processing and storage of supporting documents of the educational process. This allows you to reduce the time spent on routine operations, such as processing, classification and storage of documentation. Increasing the productivity of educational process management through automation is an important step in creating a more effective education system. Document management systems play an important role in this context, helping to increase transparency and control over information. This standardizes the processes of working with documents, regardless of their format – paper or electronic. The main functions of such systems include managing the document approval process and controlling different versions of documentation to facilitate workflows and maintain compliance. In this work, a prototype of an automated system for creating accompanying documentation of the educational process was developed using the example of syllabi. The development of prototypes of automated systems is an important component of the implementation of automated technologies in the field of education. Figma was used as one of the tools for creating this system. Building mock-up samples of an automated system with the help of such tools allows you to avoid unnecessary duplication of work during the software development phase, since elements of the graphical interface with the code base of their design can be transferred to the final product. To implement an effective automation system in the field of education, it is also necessary to take into account the needs of end users. Therefore, it provides an opportunity to clearly visualize the appearance and basic functionality of the software being developed and avoid redefinition of requirements at the later stages of the development process. Such a comprehensive approach to the use of automated technologies in the field of education will allow for faster and more efficient work of educational institutions, will create a favorable environment for learning and improve the quality of education in general.
DEVELOPMENT OF A TEST BENCH FOR AUTOMATIC DETERMINATION OF THE SPEED, FLOW RATE AND TEMPERATURE OF THE FLUE STREAM
Authors: Dovhopolov Andrii , Kolesnyk Vitalii , Lanchynskyi Vadym , Kyrylenko Maksym , Yarosh Vitalii
Published: December 2024

Today, creating new or improving existing systems of smoke masking of road transport is an urgent engineering task, which can be ensured by using smoke bombs of different chemical composition. Field testing the effectiveness of smoke bombs of different compositions is a costly procedure involving the use of many smoke bombs to accumulate statistics. However, in modern conditions, the determination of the smoke flow distribution parameters depending on the atmospheric conditions and the composition of the draft can be performed by numerical or simulation modelling methods, for the use of which it is sufficient to measure a limited sample of samples on an experimental stand to determine the necessary smoke flow parameters, to use these results when the boundary conditions of the model are introduced. The experimental setup was developed to determine the speed of movement, consumption, and temperature of the smoke flow. During the research experiment, it was determined that it was impossible to use a differential manometer with a Pitot tube to measure smoke parameters, which led to the need to create a measuring complex that made it possible to evaluate the speed, temperature, and consumption of the smoke flow with a discreteness of one second throughout the entire time the smoke bomb was burning. Circuit solutions were used when creating the hardware part of the experimental stand, making it possible to synchronise the measurement results from temperature and rotation frequency sensors. Thus, the methodology of DSTU 8725:2017 was used to solve the research problems. Data was obtained by combining the artificial thermocouple method and the frequency method of measuring the rotation of the impeller. The proposed technological solution made it possible to obtain initial data on the value of movement speed, consumption and temperature of the smoke flow under the influence of soot.
COMPARISON OF D65/10° AND TL84/10° ILLUMINANT/OBSERVER SYSTEMS IN MEASUREMENTS OF COLOUR IN RAW PORCINE LONGISSIMUS MUSCLE
Authors:   Department of Microbiology and Biotechnology, West Pomeranian University of Technology in Szczecin, al. Piastów 45, 70-311 Szczecin, Poland, Karamucki Tadeusz
Published: December 2024

This study involved 240 samples of longissimus lumborum muscle taken from 240 carcasses (with an average
weight of 90.3 ±7.6 kg) of pigs slaughtered on an industrial production line. The moisture content, crude protein,
intramuscular fat content, water holding capacity (WHC), and pH48 were determined. Colour measurements were
taken using the CIELAB and CIELCh colour scales, using the D65/10° and TL84/10° illuminant/observer systems.
Reflectance measurements were taken in the 400–700 nm range (at intervals of 10 nm). The chromatic absorbance
at a wavelength of 525 nm (A525p) and the relative quantities of MbO2, MetMb, and Mb were calculated, before
and after illuminated, and differences (Δ) were calculated. Hue difference (∆H) and total colour difference (∆E)
were also calculated. The use of the TL84/10° illuminant/observer system for measuring the colour of raw pork
longissimus muscle, as compared to the D65/10° system, changed the observed effect of the amount of pigments
and relative quantities of myoglobin chemical forms on colour parameters, mainly a* and h° as well as C* and in
the effect result in higher correlation coefficients between WHC and pH48 and changes in redness (∆a*) and hue
angle (∆h°) as well as chroma (∆C*) of colour. The TL84/10° system, as compared to the D65/10° system, may be
more useful for measuring changes in the colour of raw pork, especially for determining ∆a* and ∆h° as well as
∆H and ∆E.
Racial and Ethnic Representation of the Local Public Health Workforce
Authors: Balio Casey P. , Leslie Haleigh , Meit Michael B.
Published: December 2024

Objectives. To describe racial and ethnic representativeness of the local health department (LHD) workforce compared with the populations served.

Methods. In this study, we used a cross-sectional design of the 2021 Public Health Workforce Interests and Needs Survey, 2019 National Association of County and City Health Officials Profile data, and other sources to estimate the racial and ethnic representativeness of LHD workforce. We calculated representativeness as a binary measure of at least representative of the populations served for each race and ethnicity group. We present bivariate analyses comparing LHD representativeness by region and rurality, and multivariate analyses to estimate the associations between representativeness, agency, and jurisdiction characteristics. This study was conducted in Tennessee in 2023.

Results. Sixty percent of LHDs in the sample were at least representative of the Black, Indigenous, and People of Color populations they serve. For most race and ethnicity groups, urban-serving LHDs were more representative of the populations they serve than rural-serving LHDs.

Conclusions. Racial and ethnic representativeness of the LHD workforce varies by rurality, region, and race or ethnicity. These findings may help inform training, recruitment, and retention efforts in public health. ( Am J Public Health. 2025;115(3):333–343. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307903 )
Cadaveric Diagnostic Study of Subtle Syndesmotic Instability Using a 3-Dimensional Weight-Bearing CT Distance Mapping Algorithm
Authors: de Cesar Netto Cesar , Barbachan Mansur Nacime Salomão , Talaski Grayson , Behrens Andrew , Mendes de Carvalho Kepler Alencar , Dibbern Kevin
Published: December 2024

Background:

The diagnosis of syndesmotic instability is challenging, and chronically unstable injuries can potentially lead to ankle arthritic degeneration. The objective of this cadaveric study was to utilize a 3-dimensional (3D) weight-bearing computed tomography (WBCT) distance mapping algorithm for the detection of subtle syndesmotic instability, induced by complete syndesmotic ligament sectioning and stressed by isolated axial load. We hypothesized that this algorithm would accurately detect subtle syndesmotic instability.

Methods:

Nineteen matched pairs of through-the-knee cadaveric specimens (38 legs) were utilized. Specimens were mounted in a frame that allowed simulated axial weight-bearing (356 N). Specimens were scanned using cone-beam WBCT in the normal pre-injury state and after complete syndesmotic ligament sectioning. The deltoid ligament was kept intact, and no external rotational stress was applied. Syndesmotic incisura and lateral gutter distances were assessed and compared between pre-injury ipsilateral, contralateral, and injured states using a 3D WBCT distance mapping algorithm. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and area under the curve (AUC) were calculated for the comparison of syndesmotic distance measurements between injured specimens and controls. P values of <0.05 were considered significant.

Results:

Overall, significantly increased distances were observed in injured specimens when compared with controls, with average relative syndesmotic widening in injured specimens of 16.9% (p = 0.0003), 11.3% (p = 0.0015), 6.4% (p = 0.0027), and 2.9% (p = 0.037) at the first 1, 3, 5, and 10 cm (proximal to the apex of the distal tibial articular surface), respectively. Widening was more pronounced in the anterior aspect of the syndesmosis, where the diagnostic accuracy was found to be highest at the first 1 and 3 cm of the syndesmotic incisura, with AUC values ranging from 80.9% to 83.0% (p < 0.0001) and with threshold diagnostic values of relative syndesmotic widening as low as 0.43 mm.

Conclusions:

The newly proposed 3D WBCT distance mapping algorithm was able to accurately detect subtle syndesmotic instability in a cadaveric model of complete syndesmotic sectioning under isolated axial weight-bearing load. This algorithm needs to be further validated in patients with suspected traumatic syndesmotic instability.

Clinical Relevance:

This cadaveric study demonstrated high diagnostic accuracy of a 3D WBCT distance mapping algorithm to detect subtle syndesmotic instability when stressed with isolated axial loading and in the absence of deltoid injury. The future use of this algorithm in patients with suspected unilateral traumatic syndesmotic instability could hopefully optimize the diagnosis and treatment decision-making.
Foreign trade hysteresis: An empirical essay Turkish case
Authors: Yıldırım Koray , Algan Neşe , Bal Harun
Published: December 2024

The permanent effects of temporary shocks in exchange rates on foreign trade flows are defined as hysteresis. In this study, hysteresis is analyzed on the basis of exchange rate and import relationship. Empirical findings point to the validity of hysteresis in the Turkish economy. Sunk costs are the main dynamics of hysteresis in the Turkish economy. As a matter of fact, hysteresis effects caused by sunk costs are determinant in the sustainability of the current account deficit.
SCIENTIFIC DEVELOPMENTS IN CAREERISM RESEARCH IN THE FIELD OF BUSINESS: A BIBLIOMETRIC REVIEW
Authors: Kaptan Zeynep
Published: December 2024

This study presents the findings obtained from the examination of 36 articles published in the field of business between 1983-2023, representing the first known bibliometric analysis in the field of careerism. The analyses not only shed light on the history of the field but also make a significant contribution to identifying trends that will guide future researchers. According to the findings, the most productive period in careerism studies was determined to be 2020-2021, with A. De Vos being identified as the most prolific author. Additionally, the contributions of leading institutions like the Texas University and prestigious journals such as the Journal of Business and Psychology underscore the academic significance of research in the field of careerism. Examining the relationships between keywords also provides valuable insights into the topics researchers focus on and the future directions of the field. This study contributes to the literature by offering a broad perspective on research conducted in the field of careerism.
Solution of Wave Equation by Linear Regression Artificial Neural Network
Authors: Al-Saif Nahdh S. M. Al-Saif , Shamran Mahmood A. , Ali Samah Mohammed Ali , Al-Azzawi Saad Naji
Published: December 2024

تعتبر المعادلات التفاضلية الموجية من اهم المواضيع التي تمثل على سبيل المثال الحركة الموجية للاهتزازات الأرضية . ومن هنا فان ايجاد  حلول تقريبيه لمثل هذه المعادلات بدقة وسرعه عالية وبشكل اسرع من الحلول التحليلية والمعقدة , اصبح ممكنا من خلال استخدام الذكاء الاصطناعي واساليب  التعلم  الالي. في هذا البحث هناك ثلاثة أهداف الأول هو تحويل مشكلة القيمة الأولية للمعادلة الموجية إلى شكلها القانوني وإيجاد حلها الدقيق. والثاني هو كتابة خوارزمية الشبكة العصبية الاصطناعية للانحدار الخطي. النتيجة الثالثة هي تطبيق هذه الخوارزمية لإيجاد حل عددي لمسألة القيمة الأولية قيد الدراسة. وأخيرا هو مقارنة الحل بواسطة جدول وأشكال لقيم معينة من المعلمات والشروط الأولية لبيان كفاءة طريقة الشبكة العصبية الاصطناعية. تم الحصول على نتائج الحلول التقريبية ذات الخطأ البسيط جداً مقارنة بالحل الحقيقي للمعادلة التفاضلية الموجية من خلال تطبيق الشبكة العصبية الاصطناعية التي تمثل معادلة الانحدار الخطي والتي تعطي ميزة السرعة العالية في الحصول على حل هذا النوع من التفاضلية .
Looking under the hood of a hybrid two-way texting intervention to improve early retention on antiretroviral therapy in Malawi: an implementation fidelity evaluation
Authors: Klabbers Robin , Feldacker Caryl , Huwa Jacqueline , Kiruthu-Kamamia Christine , Thawani Agness , Tweya Hannock
Published: December 2024

Background
While key to interpreting findings and assessing generalizability, implementation fidelity is underreported in mobile health (mHealth) literature. We evaluated implementation fidelity of an opt-in, hybrid, two-way texting (2wT) intervention previously demonstrated to improve 12-month retention on antiretroviral therapy (ART) among people living with HIV (PLHIV) in a quasi-experimental study in Lilongwe, Malawi.
Methods
Short message service (SMS) data and ART refill visit records were used to evaluate adherence to 2wT content, frequency and duration through the lens of the Conceptual Framework for Implementation Fidelity. Message delivery and 2wT participant interactions were considered across four core 2wT components: 1) weekly motivational SMS messages; 2) proactive SMS appointment reminders; 3) SMS reminders after missed appointments; and 4) interactive messaging with 2wT staff about transfers and appointment rescheduling. In mixed-effects logistic regression, associations were assessed between 2wT messages and on-time appointment attendance and timely return to care after a missed appointment, respectively, presenting odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).
Results
The 468 2wT participants had a median of 52 study weeks (interquartile range [IQR] 34–52) with 6 ART appointments (IQR 4–7) of which 2 (IQR 1–3) were missed. On average, participants received a motivation message for 75% (IQR 56% − 83%) of enrolled weeks, a reminder before 83% (IQR 67% − 100%) of appointments, and after 67% (IQR 0% − 100%) of missed appointments. Participants reported 9 transfers and rescheduled 46 appointments through 2wT prompts; 196 appointments were changed via unprompted interaction. Participants with 10% higher expected motivation message delivery were more likely to attend clinic on time (OR: 1.13; 95%CI: 1.06–1.20, p < 0.001) and return to care within 14 days of a missed appointment (OR: 1.12; 95%CI: 1.03–1.22, p = 0.01). Receiving an appointment reminder increased on-time attendance (OR: 1.83; 95%CI: 1.44–2.33, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Greater 2wT implementation fidelity was associated with improved care outcomes. Although implementation fidelity monitoring of mHealth interventions is complex, it should be integrated into study design.
Effective treatment of Xanthelasma Palpebrarum using Er:YAG Laser
Authors: Park Hojin , Lee Su Bin , Chung Jae-Ho , Park Seung Ha
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP), characterized by soft, yellowish plaque primarily on the eyelids, is often associated with lipid metabolism disorders. XP can cause aesthetic concerns that affect social interactions and requires careful treatment evaluations due to potential complications and associations with systemic conditions. We aimed to assess the efficacy of and recurrence rates with erbium:yttrium aluminum garnet (Er:YAG) laser therapy in the treatment of XP.
Methods
This was a retrospective review involving 214 patients treated with a 2,940 nm Er:YAG laser for XP from January 2021 to June 2023. Treatment efficacy was evaluated using standardized photography and the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS), with follow-up assessments noting any complications or recurrence.
Results
The 214 patients with 457 lesions exhibited a complete removal of lesions post-treatment. Complications were minimal, with hypertrophic scarring occurring in 1.5% of patients and a recurrence rate of 9.5%. Patients with multiple lesions had a higher recurrence rate compared with those with single lesions. Based on VSS evaluation, 66.8% of patients (n = 143) were categorized as having excellent outcomes, while 29.0% (n = 62) were classified as having good outcomes.
Conclusion
Er:YAG laser therapy has proven to be an effective and safe treatment modality for XP, accurately and safely removing lesions with minimal recurrence rates. It can achieve complete lesion removal, with recurrence at the treated site being very low. Additionally, Er:YAG laser treatment offers several advantages over surgical methods, making it a promising candidate to become the first-line treatment of choice for XP.
Green-emitting AIEgen for fluorescent switch-off detection of multi-cations and applications
Authors: Patel Dhvani A. , Anand Thangaraj , Jali Bigyan R. , Sahoo Suban K.
Published: December 2024

An easy-to-synthesize Schiff base HNSA was obtained by condensing equimolar amount of 3-hydroxy-2-naphthohydrazide and salicylaldehyde. In pure DMSO, HNSA is non-fluorescent, but increasing the HEPES (10 mM, pH 7.4) fraction (fHEPES) ≥ 90%, it showed a strong green fluorescent with maximum fluorescence intensity at 515 nm. The changes in the fluorescence behavior is due to the formation of sheet-like self-aggregates of HNSA. The HNSA aggregates were found to be emissive over a wide pH range between pH 2.20 to 7.50. Further, metal ion sensing ability by aggregation-induced emission luminogen (AIEgen) HNSA was performed in fHEPES 95%. Addition of Co2+, Ni2+, Cu2+ and Fe2+ ions shows a decrease in fluorescence intensity of AIEgen HNSA with an estimated detection limit of 0.43 µM, 0.48 µM, 6.26 µM, and 6.74 µM, respectively. AIEgen HNSA coated paper strips were developed to visually detect these metal ions. Also, AIEgen HNSA was successfully utilized to qualitatively detect metal ions in chickpea and lima bean sprouts. In addition, AIEgen HNSA was used to prepare green fluorescent gelatin gel and fluorescent invisible ink to write on filter paper to transfer confidential information. The probe AIEgen HNSA was employed for the detection metal ions in real environmental water samples.
Impact of Frequent ARID1A Mutations on Protein Stability: Insights into Cancer Pathogenesis
Authors: Goutam Rajen K , Huang Gangtong , Medina Exequiel , Ding Feng , Edenfield William J. , Sanabria Hugo
Published: December 2024

The ARID1A gene, frequently mutated in cancer, encodes the AT-rich interactive domain-containing protein 1A, a key component of the chromatin remodeling SWI/SNF complex. The ARID1A protein features a conserved DNA-binding domain (ARID domain) of approximately 100 residues crucial for its function. Despite the frequency of mutations, the impact on ARID1A’s stability and contribution to cancer progression remains unclear. We analyzed five frequent missense mutations R1020S, M1022K, K1047Q, G1063V, and A1089T identified in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) to assess their effects on the stability of the ARID domain using a hybrid experimental and computational approach. By combining computational stability from web server tools, the structural dynamics from replica exchange discrete molecular simulation (rexDMD), and thermal and chemical denaturation experiments, we found that the R1020S mutation severely decreases structural stability, making it the most impactful, while M1022K has minimal effect, and others lie in between. These findings enhance our understanding of the structural-functional relationship of ARID1A missense mutations at the molecular levels and their role in cancer pathogenesis. This research paves the way for identifying and categorizing which ARID1A mutations are most pathogenic, potentially guiding the development of targeted therapies tailored to specific mutation profiles in cancer treatment.
Contrasting LRP5 Mutations in Osteoporosis-Pseudoglioma Syndrome and Osteopetrosis: Case Reports and Literature Review.
Authors: Hsieh Jason Peijer , Yang Chia-Feng , Liou Jia-You , Wang Pin-Hsuan , Feng Chi-Kuang , Weng Chang-Chi , Lu Yung-Hsiu , Niu Dau-Ming
Published: December 2024

Background:
This study explores the critical role of LRP5 gene mutations in bone metabolism by presenting two cases of rare inherited disorders with contrasting skeletal manifestations. The study aims to highlight the spectrum of LRP5-associated disorders through the analysis of these cases.
Results
The first case involves a male patient with osteoporosis-pseudoglioma syndrome (OPPG) who has compound heterozygous missense mutations in LRP5 (c.1385G > A and c.1589T > C), each inherited from a different parent. These mutations, previously linked only to exudative vitreoretinopathy and classified as variants of uncertain significance, are now reclassified as pathogenic for OPPG. Additionally, whole-exome sequencing identified an incidental pathogenic mutation (c.1066C > T) in the GLA gene, indicating comorbid Fabry disease, which is associated with an increased risk of osteopenia. The second case involves a female patient diagnosed with osteopetrosis, who carries a missense mutation (c.640G > A) in LRP5, exemplifying the opposite end of the bone density spectrum.
Conclusions:
This study underscores the diverse skeletal manifestations associated with LRP5 mutations and provides valuable insights into genotype-phenotype correlations. By comparing LRP5 mutations linked to osteosclerosis and OPPG, this research enhances the understanding of LRP5-associated disorders.
Unraveling patterns and drivers of saurophagy in South American lizards
Authors: Oliveira Patricia Marques do A. , Souza Ubiratã Ferreira , Sousa Juliana Delfino , de Mello Anna V. Albano , Silva Natallia Vívian N. da , Lima José Henrique de Andrade
Published: December 2024

Predation plays a crucial role in community structure and population dynamics, influencing the evolution of various groups. Lizards occupy a central position in predator-prey networks, with some species engaging in saurophagy—where they act as both predator and prey. This study investigates saurophagy in South American lizards to identify biological and spatial patterns and uncover its biotic and abiotic drivers. We gathered 127 records from the literature, documenting 47 predator species from nine lizard families. Lizards of the family Tropiduridae emerged as both the most frequent predator (39.6%) and the most common prey (26%). Interspecific predation accounted for 63% of cases, while 37% involved cannibalism, primarily targeting juveniles. GLM and ANOVA analyses revealed a positive correlation between predator and prey size. Most records (84%) were in open habitats, particularly the Caatinga and Galápagos. A structural equation model identified isothermality (β = -0.43), evapotranspiration (β = 0.49), and longitude (β = 0.43) as significant predictors of saurophagy. A random forest model (82% accuracy) highlighted predator family, prey size, and habitat as key decision factors. This study demonstrates the frequent, non-random occurrence of saurophagy in South American lizard assemblages, contributing valuable insights into predator-prey relationships.
Enhanced angiogenesis by mesenchymal stem cells based on Hyaluronic Acid hydrogel combined with GM-CSF and IL-2 in a rat model of hindlimb ischemia
Authors: Cai yihang , Wang Junshu , Wu Lin , Hou Xinhuang , Ji Shiping , Zhang Jinchi
Published: December 2024

Background
The clinical application of stem cells in restoring ischemic lower limb perfusion has been hindered by challenges. To promote the directed differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells(MSCs) into endothelial cells(ECs) and enhance the paracrine effect, this paper aim to find a combined therapy for angiogenesis.
Methods
MSCs based on Hyaluronic Acid(HA) hydrogel combined with GM-CSF and IL-2(HGI-MSCs) were locally injected into the femoral artery ligated ischemia model rat. Recovery of perfusion was assessed by limb temperature and exhaustive distance. Hematoxylin and eosin(H&E) staining, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining were used to evaluate the quantity of blood vessels, microvessel density(MVD) and the proliferation and maturation of neovascularization in the limb muscle. Migration and tube formation of Human umbilical vein endothelial cells(HUVECs) were evaluated by Transwell and tube formation assays. The expression levels of angiogenesis-related genes, cytokine and proteins were measured by qRT-PCR, ELISA and Western blotting, respectively.
Results
HGI-MSCs promoted ischemic limb angiogenesis and restored perfusion. Our study showed that HGI-MSCs could promote the proliferation and maturation of neovascularization. Moreover, HGI-MSCs promoted HUVECs migration and tube formation in vitro, up-regulated the expression of VEGF and activated PI3K/Akt signaling pathway.
Conclusions
HGI-MSCs showed a more robust pro-angiogenic effect than that of pure MSCs in the ischemia limb model rat. It offers novel ideas for the treatment of patients with refractory limb ischemia.
Impact of Evusheld monoclonal antibodies on incidence and severity of COVID-19 in patients with cancer: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Warraich Fatima , Bhardwaj Prathna , Naser Maryam , Jadoon Yamna , Gupta Kush , Rastegar Vida , Loke Chandravathi , Malleshappa Sudeep K. Siddappa
Published: December 2024

Introduction
COVID-19 infection is associated with an increased risk of complications, prolonged hospitalization, and mortality despite vaccination in patients with cancer. Evusheld (tixagevimab-cilgavimab) was granted emergency use approval in December 2021 for pre-exposure prophylaxis based on preliminary results from the PROVENT trial. However, studies evaluating the impact of Evusheld in cancer patients in the real-world are limited. In this study, we assessed the impact of Evusheld on the incidence and severity of COVID-19 infection in cancer patients at our institution.
Methods and Materials
We conducted a retrospective descriptive study at our institution on patients with current and prior history of cancer diagnosis regardless of treatment history who received Evusheld between December 2021 and March 2022. The primary outcome was incidence of COVID-19 during a 6 month follow up period. Secondary outcomes included rate of hospitalization related to COVID-19 and associated mortality.
Results
A total of 228 patients were included, 43% of which received 2 doses of Evusheld during the study period. Twenty-nine patients (12.7%, 95% CI 9.4% – 18.7%) developed COVID-19, with an average time to diagnosis of 2.5 months (SD 1.6) from receiving Evusheld. Most had hematologic malignancies (68.4%) and were receiving active chemotherapy (71.5%) at the time of diagnosis. Five (17.2%) patients were hospitalized for COVID-19, of whom 4 had hematological malignancy. One patient with hematological malignancy required mechanical ventilation and died.
Conclusion
Overall, the incidence of COVID-19 following Evusheld was higher than in the PROVENT trial. Infections appeared to be more common and severe in patients with hematologic malignancies.
Unveiling Key Immune Genes and Drug Candidates for Krabbe Disease in Human iPSCs-derived NSCs
Authors: luo Guiyuan Luo , Li Yang , lv yafeng , zhang Ye Zhang
Published: December 2024

Globoid cell leukodystrophy (GLD), also known as Krabbe disease, is a rare genetic neurodegenerative disorder caused by deficiency of the lysosomal enzyme GALC. Abnormal cytokine expression in the immune system of GLD patients potentially contributes to immune imbalances crucial in disease pathogenesis. This study aimed to identify key immune genes and potential drug candidates related to GLD by using Krabbe iPSC-derived neural stem cells (K-NSCs). Transcriptome data from K-NSCs (GSE212512) were analyzed employing GEO2R and Sangerbox tools to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with immunity. Functional enrichment and pathway analyses were conducted using DAVID, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed and analyzed using STRING and Cytoscape. From these analyses, key immune genes were identified based on topological features. Potential therapeutic drugs were then screened using the DGIdb and DrugMAP databases, followed by molecular docking using CB-DOCK2 to assess drug-gene binding affinities. The study identified 61 immune-related DEGs in K-NSCs, highlighting GDNF, EGF, KDR, FGF10, and MET as key immune genes. Among the potential drug candidates identified with high binding affinities were Gentamicin for GDNF, Cetuximab for EGF, Tivozanib for KDR, and Capmatinib for MET. These findings enhance our understanding of the role of immune-related genes in Krabbe disease and suggest potential therapeutic targets and drug candidates, thereby advancing research into the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of this rare disorder.
Comparison of clinical outcomes of upper tract urothelial carcinoma between patients after renal transplantation and on dialysis
Authors: Guan Bao , Guo Heng , Wang Guoli , Du Yicong , Tang Qi , Xu Chunru , Li Zhihua , Zhou Liqun , Li Xuesong , He Shiming , Rui Rui
Published: December 2024

Purpose:
Upper tract urothelial carcinoma (UTUC) is an uncommon complication following renal replacement therapy in Chinese patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The study aims to determine differences in clinical outcomes between patients who have undergone renal transplantation (RT) and those on dialysis.
Materials and Methods:
We conducted a retrospective analysis including the clinicopathological data of 34 patients who received RT and 90 patients on dialysis, all were diagnosed with unilateral UTUC at our center. We aimed to identify differences in clinical and pathological features between the two groups. The analysis employed the Kaplan-Meier method for survival analysis and propensity score matching (PSM) to account for potential biases in the selection of surgical approaches.
Results:
The RT group comprised a higher proportion of younger patients and exhibited a higher prevalence of larger tumors and adenoid differentiation. The Kaplan-Meier curves showed significant differences in contralateral recurrence-free survival (CRFS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) between the two groups. However, no significant differences were observed in overall survival (OS), bladder recurrence-free survival, or metastasis-free survival. After PSM, significant differences in CRFS and CSS remained. A multivariate Cox regression analysis identified RT as an independent predictor of poor CRFS outcomes.
Conclusion:
RT is associated with comparable OS to dialysis in patients with ESRD, but there is a potential increased risk of contralateral recurrence. The prophylactic contralateral nephroureterectomy is a priority choice for UTUC patients following RT in certain regions.
Patient-Specific and Regional Factors Influencing Proliferation Dynamics of Adult Human Neural Stem/Progenitor Cells from Spinal Cord Tissue
Authors: Jagadeesan Sasi Kumar , Sandarage Ryan Vimukthie , Patel Maitreya , Galuta Ahmad , Hao Delilah , Khan Zaim , Wai Eugene , Tsai Eve Chung
Published: December 2024

Direct comparison of proliferation characteristics between primary adult human neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) and their animal counterparts has been challenging due to the difficulty in obtaining viable adult human spinal cord tissue. Here, we present the first assessment of proliferation rates of NSPCs derived from adult human spinal cord samples and the development of a multivariate linear regression model to predict their proliferation dynamics. We cultured NSPCs from 42 spinal cord tissue samples, sourced from 27 adult human organ donors, to examine their doubling times and proliferation rates. Key characteristics, including sex, age, spinal cord region (thoracic, lumbar, conus), neurological conditions (e.g., epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, schizophrenia), and substance use (alcohol misuse, intravenous drug use, polydrug use) were analyzed for their correlation with NSPC proliferative behavior. Immunocytochemical analysis confirmed the multipotency of these NSPCs, indicating their capability to differentiate into multiple neural lineages. A multivariate linear regression model was developed to predict NSPC proliferation rates, encoding categorical variables as integers and using binary values for neurological conditions and substance use, with 7-fold cross-validation ensuring model robustness. The model demonstrated high predictive performance (MSE = 0.006335, MAE = 0.0217, R² = 0.887), and validation on an independent cohort yielded an R² of 0.916 and an MSE of 0.018003. Our findings revealed a significant decline in NSPC proliferation in older individuals and those with substance use histories, while NSPCs from the conus region exhibited higher proliferation rates. Furthermore, neurological conditions, such as epilepsy and Parkinson's disease, were found to correlate with reduced NSPC proliferation rates, highlighting the impact of underlying pathology on stem cell dynamics.
Prediction of pulmonary function decline in fibrotic interstitial lung abnormalties based on quantitative chest CT parameters
Authors: li Dechun , Sun Yingli , Ma Zongjing , Chen Bin , Li Ming
Published: December 2024

Background
Interstitial lung abnormalities (ILA) is an imaging concept proposed, and fibrotic interstitial lung abnormalities have a higher risk of progression and death. Clinically, CT examination is more common and convenient compared with pulmonary function tests. The aim of this paper is to correlate quantitative CT airway parameters with pulmonary function parameters in patients with fibrotic ILA and to establish a prediction model for abnormal pulmonary function parameters in patients with fibrotic ILA.
Methods
In this paper, 95 cases with fibrotic ILA in CT images and 64 normal control cases were collected, and all of them completed pulmonary function tests within one week. The airway parameters of the CT images of the two groups of cases were measured using commercial software (Aview), and then the differences in airway parameters and lung function parameters between the two groups were regressed based on logistic multifactorial regression. Then analyse the correlation between airway parameters and lung function parameters among 95 patients with fibrotic ILA and the prediction model for abnormal lung function parameters in patients with fibrotic ILA was determined.
Results
After logistic multifactorial regression, it was determined that FVC%pred and WT (bronchial wall thickness) were correlated with fibrotic ILA. Then, 95 patients with fibrotic ILA were divided into a group with normal FVC%pred (n=69) and a group with decreased FVC%pred (n=26) at the 80% cut-off, and it was determined after logistic multifactorial regression that the correlation between age (OR: 1.11,95% CI: 1.02-1.21), sex (OR: 4.16,95% CI: 1.27- 13.71), LA6(the luminal area of the sixth generation brochi)(OR: 0.87,95%CI: 0.78-0.970), and WA(airway wall area)(OR: 1.12,95%CI: 1.02-1.24) were effective predictors of FVC%pred decline in patients with fibrotic ILA, and the AUC of the prediction model built from the above four parameters was 0.8428.
Conclusion
WT is a quantitative CT biomarker and FVC%pred is a valid lung function parameter in fibrotic ILA patients. Age, gender, LA6, and WA are effective predictors of FVC%pred decline in fibrotic ILA patients, and the combined model has good predictive value.