bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and all-cause mortality in ICU patients with primary hypertension: a retrospective study
Authors: Ding JiaCheng , Zhang Kai , Cai XinYu , Li JingQian , Yu Shi , Liu KeYan , Huang MaoXun
Published: November 2024

Background
Hypertension includes both primary hypertension and secondary hypertension. Primary hypertension is the most common type of hypertension, accounting for 90% to 95% of all cases, with a complex and not fully understood pathogenesis. Insulin resistance (IR) is a metabolic abnormality that has been shown to be quite prevalent among patients with hypertension in existing literature. The triglyceride-glucose index (TyG-i) is a reliable indicator for assessing insulin resistance (IR). This study aims to evaluate the relationship between the TyG index at admission and all-cause mortality
(ACM) in patients with severe primary hypertension, and to explore its role in predicting the future all-cause mortality risk in primary hypertension patients.
Methods
This study employs a retrospective design to categorize all patients into four quartiles based on the TyG index. The Kaplan-Meier (K-M) method was utilized to estimate the survival curves for each group and to compare the survival outcomes across different quartiles. To assess the nonlinear relationship between the TyG index and prognosis, Cox proportional hazards regression models and restricted cubic splines (RCS) were applied, adjusting for potential confounders. Additionally, subgroup analyses were performed to conduct stratified analyses and interaction tests.
Results
The study included 3,829 patients with a mean age of 69±11 years. Kaplan-Meier survival curve analysis showed that patients with higher TyG index levels had higher all-cause mortality rates at 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days post-admission. This indicates that a higher TyG index is associated with an increased risk of death in the short term. Additionally, multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression analysis revealed that an increased TyG index was significantly associated with all-cause mortality at 30 days, 60 days, and 90 days(HR: 1.93, 95% CI: 1.44-2.57, P-value: <0.001; HR: 1.80, 95% CI: 1.38-2.34, P-value: <0.001; HR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.34-2.21, P-value: <0.001).Meanwhile, restricted cubic splines (RCS) analysis revealed a J-shaped relationship between the TyG index and all-cause mortality. This relationship suggests that as the TyG index level increases, the risk of all-cause mortality also progressively rises.
Conclusion
In summary, among patients with primary hypertension in the intensive care unit, elevated triglyceride-glucose index (TyG-i) levels are associated with an increased risk of short-term mortality.
Multidimensional Differential Equations: Integration and Optimization through Matrix Based Algorithms
Authors: NAIK suhail
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we present the development of a novel algorithms employing matrix-based methods for the integration of dependent and independent first order multidimensional functions. Conventional methods often face limitations when dealing with the complexity and computational demands of such high-dimensional problems. Our approach leverages advanced matrix techniques to efficiently manage and solve these intricate equations, significantly reducing computational execution time and providing a robust framework for a wide range of applications in science, technology, and data science. Building on this foundational work, we introduce a pioneering branching matrix method for optimization. This method utilizes the structural advantages of matrix operations to navigate the solution space effectively, enabling the optimization of complicated systems with high-dimensional dependencies. The novel branching matrix method offers significant improvements in both speed and accuracy over conventional techniques, making it particularly suitable for large-scale optimization problems encountered in fields such as science, technology, and data science.
Monitoring individual rice field flooding dynamics over large scales to improve mosquito surveillance and control
Authors: Randriamihaja Mauricianot , Randrianjatovo Tokiniaina M , Evans Michelle V , Ihantamalala Felana A , Herbreteau Vincent , Révillion Christophe , Delaitre Eric , Catry Thibault , Garchitorena Andres
Published: November 2024

Progress in malaria elimination has been hindered by recent changes in mosquito behaviour and increased insecticide resistance in response to traditional vector control measures, such as indoor residual spraying and long-lasting insecticide-treated nets. There is therefore increasing interest in the use of larval source management (LSM) to supplement current insecticide-based interventions. However, LSM implementation requires the characterization of larval habitats at fine spatial and temporal scales to ensure interventions are well-placed and well-timed. Remotely sensed optical imagery captured via drones or satellites offers one way to monitor larval habitats remotely, but its use at large spatio-temporal scales has important limitations. Here, we propose a method using radar imagery to monitor flooding dynamics in individual rice fields, a primary larval habitat, over very large geographic areas relevant to national malaria control programs aiming to implement LSM at scale. We demonstrate this for a 3,971 km² malaria-endemic district in Madagascar with over 17,000 rice fields. We combined rice field mapping on OpenStreetMap with Sentinel-1 satellite imagery (radar, 10m) from 2016–2022 to train a classification model of radar backscatter to identify rice fields with vegetated and open water, resulting in a time-series of weekly flooding dynamics for thousands of rice fields. From these time-series, we obtained over a dozen indicators for each rice field useful for LSM implementation, such as the timing and frequency of flooding seasons. These monitoring tools were integrated into an interactive GIS dashboard for operational use by vector control programs, with results available at multiple scales (district, sub-district, rice field) relevant for different phases of LSM intervention (e.g. prioritization of sites, implementation, follow-up). Scale-up of these methods could enable wider implementation of evidence-based LSM interventions and reduce malaria burdens in contexts where irrigated agriculture is a major transmission driver.
The Coordinated Development of the Digital Economy and Urban‒Rural Integration in the Yangtze River Delta and Its Spatial Correlation Structure
Authors: Zhou Can , Xiao Tieqiao , Xu Qiaoling
Published: November 2024

The digital economy plays a crucial role in facilitating the flow of resources between urban and rural areas and addressing development imbalances. This study focuses on 41 cities in the Yangtze River Delta region and uses the entropy-weighted TOPSIS method and coupling coordination degree model to analyze the coupling and coordinated development of the digital economy and urban‒rural integration from 2010–2022. The spatial characteristics of the coordination distribution and network correlation structures are examined via standard deviation ellipses, modified gravity models, and social network analysis, alongside the dominant influencing factors derived from geographic detectors. The results show that (1) there is a disconnection and imbalance between the development of the digital economy and urban‒rural integration in the Yangtze River Delta, with the former progressing significantly faster than the latter. (2) The coupling coordination level improved over the study period, with cities exhibiting higher coordination concentrated in the eastern and southeastern parts of the region, showing an “M”-shaped distribution. (3) The coupling coordination degree displays a spatial distribution pattern from "northwest to southeast," with the center shifting southeastward. Overall, the central area outperforms the northern and southern areas, and the eastern area surpasses the western area. (4) The degree of coupling coordination forms a complex network structure, with core cities expanding from Shanghai, Suzhou, and Wuxi including Nanjing and Changzhou. The network structure has transitioned from a hierarchical to a flat structure, and center degree analysis reveals an increase in influence for Nanjing and Changzhou; however, the distribution of mediating roles is uneven, affecting the network's accessibility and stability. (5) The coordinated development of the digital economy and urban‒rural integration is influenced by different factors over various time periods, with the flow of urban‒rural resources, agricultural modernization, and social equalization being the primary contributors. Finally, on the basis of the analysis results, targeted optimization strategies using the geographic detector model provide a reference for regional urban‒rural development.
Stylet-driven leads vs. lumenless leads as modality for left bundle branch area pacing: A systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Yu Ga-In , Kim Tae-Hoon , Cho Yun-Ho , Bae Jae-Seok , Ahn Jong-Hwa , Jang Jeong Yoon , Kwak Choong Hwan
Published: November 2024

Left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) offers cardiac synchrony benefits over conventional ventricular pacing. Although many procedures and studies on LBBAP have used lumenless pacing lead (LLL), stylet-driven pacing lead (SDL) can also be used. This study compared LLLs and SDLs in LBBAP through a systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature. The PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched for full-text articles on LBBAP from their respective inception dates to 9 April 2024. The studies comparing LLLs and SDLs were extracted, and electrophysiological characteristics and procedural outcomes were analysed. Of 2201 articles on LBBAP, 7 met the inclusion criteria of comparing LLLs and SDLs as implanted pacing leads. The overall pooled analysis showed non-inferiority in implant success rates for SDLs compared with LLLs for LBBAP (89% vs. 94%, odds ratio: 0.80, 95% confidence interval: 0.37–1.72, P = 0.566). The paced QRS duration of LBBAP using SDL was not significantly different from that using LLLs (standardised mean difference: −0.19 ms, 95% confidence interval: −0.50 to 0.12, P = 0.239). There was no difference in stimulus to left ventricular activation time and paced QRS duration between the two groups. Follow-up pacing parameters were stable in both groups.
Field experiments on the growth conditions of halophytes from Daebudo Tidal Flats, West Sea of Korea
Authors: Bai Jong Il , Hwang Sung Il , Kim Dong Uk , Kim Sung Cheol , Back Sang Ho , Kim Yu Jin
Published: November 2024

With the aim to restore the colonies of four halophyte species (Salicornia europaea, Suaeda glauca, Suaeda japonica, and Suaeda maritima) that live in upper tidal flats, we performed sowing in the tidal flats of Daebudo Island in the West Sea by varying the altitude, sowing time, and sowing depth and measured the germination density, growth rate, and soil environment of the target sea area. We also investigated the growing conditions of large natural colonies of S. japonica formed around the area. The results indicated that altitude and mean grain size strongly influenced halophyte germination and growth. S. europaea, S..glauca, and S. maritima were influenced by altitude, and S. japonica by average grain size. For the same sowing time, germination density was higher for S. japonica and S. maritima without vernalization and S. europaea with vernalization. The more the sawing depth, the higher the germination density and growth of all species. Furthermore, the germination density of S. glauca was significantly lower than that of the other species, making it difficult to evaluate the influencing environmental factors. This is the first study to report germination experiments on tidal flats in Korea, and continuous research will be required to ensure that the halophytes are conserved as second nature by monitoring for environmental pressures and cultivation.
Evaluation of noise in intensive care unit (comparison of two intensive care units)
Authors: Pazani-Kohaki Morteza , Yazdanfar Seyed-Abbas , Panahi Davoud , Arafati Erfan
Published: November 2024

Objective
The present study aims to explore the noise level in two intensive care units of different architectures; then, a comparison of the two wards will be made concerning space size, design, and material effect on noise level reduction.
Materials and Methods
The ICUs were grid passes and by using a B&K sound level meter in several points of various frequencies, the sound pressure level was measured; then, the average was calculated. Then, for simulation and validation, both ICUs were simulated using Odeon Cmbined software.
Results
The average sound pressure level was 61.4 to 62.3 dB, higher than the recommended level in the two ICUs by WHO. The reverberation time in the two ICUs was lower than the standard set by the Iranian National Building Research Center. The lowest reverberation time was at 4 kHz and the highest was at 125 and 250 Hz.
Conclusion
More partitions can be used in the ICU to reduce the sound energy of waves. Partitions should have a high absorption coefficient in mid and high frequencies for better results. Also, small units cannot keep sound-absorbing material which can promote poor acoustic conditions. Generally, the design of single-bed units is more appropriate for an ICU than an open plan.
Hybrid IoT Autonomous Robotics: A Comparative Analysis of Lidar-Based Precision Mapping and Camera-Based Vision Using ROS2 and MediaPipe
Authors: Nanade Sunny , Anne Koteswararao
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a comparative analysis of two IoT-enabled autonomous robotic systems: one employing Lidar-based precision mapping and the other utilizing camera-based vision integrated with ROS2 and MediaPipe for gesture recognition. The Lidar-based robot leverages SLAM (Simultaneous Localization and Mapping) for detailed environmental mapping and obstacle avoidance, making it well-suited for tasks requiring high navigation accuracy. In contrast, the camera-based robot uses real-time vision processing for gesture recognition and object detection, providing an interactive and adaptable interface for human-robot communication. Both systems are evaluated across multiple performance metrics, including mapping accuracy, processing time, and energy consumption. Our results demonstrate that while the Lidar system excels in precise navigation, the camera-based system offers greater flexibility for dynamic interaction scenarios. This analysis offers insights into the strengths and limitations of each approach, paving the way for hybrid systems that combine both precision and adaptability in IoT-based autonomous robotics.
Predicting A-TIG Weld Bead Geometry Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Acharya Samarendra , Patra Soumyadip , Das Santanu
Published: November 2024

The main issue that TIG welding experiences is limited weld penetration which eventually restricts its productivity. In order to overcome this difficulty and incomparable advantages of TIG welding, a method known as activating flux tungsten inert gas (A-TIG) welding was introduced, and is currently the focus of extensive research. When compared to traditional TIG welding, A-TIG welding is well capable of improving the aspect ratio by around 200% and weld penetration depth by about three times or even more. The present research tries to examine the impact of various fluxes on 8 mm thick grade 304 austenitic stainless steel regarding weld bead geometry. In this investigation, 3-factor 3-level RSM with Box-Behnken design method with 15 experimental runs were considered. In this experiment, a novel ternary flux mixture comprising of SiO2, TiO2 and Fe2O3 of different proportions such as 72:18:10, 65:25:10 and 45:45:10 were used. The sample with the optimal response, i.e. depth of penetration of 6.507 mm, bead width of 8.58 mm and reinforcement value as 0, had the welding parameters set as 160A current, 1.778 kJ/mm heat input, flux ratio of SiO2, TiO2 and Fe2O3 of 65:25:10 and root gap as 1.4 mm. A scanning electron microscope (SEM) and an optical microscope are used to examine the microstructure of the weld zone. Additionally, hardness of the welding zone is assessed and the maximum value is measured as 66 HRC. Satisfactory results are obtained with ANOVA for validation and ANN as an estimation tool.
FragNet: A Graph Neural Network for Molecular Property Prediction with Four Layers of Interpretability
Authors: Panapitiya Gihan , Gao Peiyuan , Maupin C Mark , Saldanha Emily G
Published: November 2024

Molecular property prediction is a crucial step in many modern-day scientific applications including drug discovery and energy storage material design. Despite the availability of numerous machine learning models for this task, we are lacking in models that provide both high accuracies and interpretability of the predictions. We introduce the FragNet architecture, a graph neural network not only capable of achieving prediction accuracies comparable to the current state-of-the-art models, but also able to provide insight on four levels of molecular substructures. This model enables understanding of which atoms, bonds, molecular fragments, and molecular fragment connections are critical in the prediction of a given molecular property. The ability to interpret the importance of connections between fragments is of particular interest for molecules which have substructures that are not connected with regular covalent bonds. The interpretable capabilities of FragNet are key to gaining scientific insights from the model’s learned patterns between molecular structure and molecular properties.
Efficacy and Safety of Rivaroxaban in the Treatment of Carotid Artery Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: HMMP Bandara , GD Hannibal , PLGC Liyanage
Published: November 2024

Background
Globally, cardiovascular diseases continue to be the major cause of death, with carotid artery disease (CD) playing a significant role in stroke incidence. Rivaroxaban, a direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC), has shown potential in reducing the risk of systemic embolism and stroke in carotid artery disease patients.
Objective:
To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of rivaroxaban in patients with carotid artery disease compared with standard treatments.
Method:
A review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines, with searches performed in the MEDLINE and Cochrane databases using predefined keywords. From 80 initially identified studies, four met the inclusion criteria. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adults aged above 18 with cardiovascular disease published in English from 2017 onward and compared rivaroxaban with standard therapies. Studies were excluded if they did not focus primarily on rivaroxaban, included patients under 18, or were not RCTs. The quality of the selected studies was assessed via the Cochrane risk of bias revised tool, and all the studies were deemed to be of low risk.
Results
The studies included in the review compared rivaroxaban versus warfarin, rivaroxaban alone versus aspirin, and rivaroxaban in combination with aspirin versus aspirin alone. Whether used alone or in combination with aspirin, rivaroxaban has shown varying efficacy in reducing cardiovascular and other thrombotic events. Rivaroxaban and aspirin together significantly decreased overall mortality (p = 0.01) and the risk of myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiovascular death, and acute limb ischemia (p < 0.001). However, there was a higher chance of major and minor bleeding, especially gastrointestinal bleeding, when using rivaroxaban (p < 0.001). Rivaroxaban did not differ statistically significantly from warfarin or aspirin.
Conclusion
Rivaroxaban, especially with aspirin, reduces major cardiovascular events and thrombotic events but increases the risk of bleeding. These findings highlight the need for careful risk-benefit assessment when considering rivaroxaban for carotid artery disease.
Beyond the Decade: Unveiling Long-Term Weight and Co- Morbidity Outcomes up to 10 Years Post Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy
Authors: Sabah Salman Al , Haddad Eliana Al , Qadhi Iman , AlMuhaini Muneerah , AlAwtan Abrar , AlQabandi Omar A. , AlKhayat Ali , Saleem Ammar F. , Behbehani Mousa
Published: November 2024

Introduction
Despite its effectiveness, long-term data on the safety and efficacy of laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) for morbid obesity are sparce.
Methods
We collected data through phone interviews and hospital records for patients who had LSG, assessing their weight outcomes, associated health conditions, and complications.
Results
2982 patients (72% female) were included in the study, with a maximum follow-up reached of 13 years. The mean pre-operative age and body mass index (BMI) were 34.7 ± 11.3 years and 45.5 ± 7.7 kg/m2, respectively. The prevalence of obesity classes were as follows: Class I, 3.1%; Class II, 19.2%; and Class III, 75.9%. BMI at nadir was 32.35 Kg/m2 equating to a mean nadir excess weight loss (EWL) of 67.03%. Weight outcomes at 13 years post-LSG showed a mean BMI of 31.83 kg/m2 and total weight loss (TWL) percentage of 31.43%. Weight loss outcomes varied according to pre-operative obesity class, with class I achieving the highest percentage EWL and class III observing the highest TWL at the end of one year. Weight regain occurred in 1.3% of the patient population, with class III experiencing the highest weight regain at 13 years. Significant reductions in comorbidities were observed, while complication rates were low, with 0.4% bleed, 0.5% leak, and 7.9% GERD.
Conclusion
LSG demonstrates sustained weight loss and resolution of comorbidities with low complication rates. The influence of initial obesity class on weight loss was significant only in the first 18 months post-LSG.
Is pre-hospital hemoglobin an efficient marker of the need for transfusion and hemorrhagic shock in severe trauma patients? A retrospective observational study
Authors: Mathais Quentin , Dufour Mael , de Malleray Hilaire , Bonnefoy Manon , Bruno Laura , Meaudres Eric , Bordes Julien , Cardinale Michaël
Published: November 2024

Background Hemorrhagic shock is the leading cause of preventable death among trauma patients. Early detection of severe hemorrhage is essential for initiating timely resuscitation and mobilizing resources for massive transfusion (MT) protocols and damage control procedures. This study aimed to assess the predictive value of prehospital hemoglobin (Hb) levels for the need for transfusion at admission, the presence of hemorrhagic shock (HS), and the necessity for MT or hemostatic surgery. Additionally, the study sought to compare the diagnostic accuracy of Hb with established multiparametric scores such as TASH, ABC, Red Flag, and Shock Index (SI).Methods This retrospective, single-center study was conducted at the Military Teaching Hospital (HIA) Sainte Anne, Toulon, France, a Level 1 trauma center, from January 1, 2015, to December 31, 2022. Trauma patients older than 16 years, with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 15, and at least one prehospital Hb measurement were included. The primary outcome was the predictive ability of Hb for the need for transfusion at admission. Secondary outcomes included the prediction of HS, MT, and hemostatic surgery, compared to TASH, ABC, Red Flag, and SI scores.Results Among 2731 trauma patients, 1040 had an ISS ≥ 15 and at least one prehospital Hb measurement. Of these, 227 (21.8%) exhibited HS. Hb levels predicted the need for transfusion at admission with an AUC of 0.82. Hb, along with TASH, ABC, Red Flag, and SI, significantly predicted HS, MT, and hemostatic surgery. Using a cutoff value of 11.45 g/dL, Hb predicted the need for transfusion in 79% of cases.Conclusion Prehospital Hb levels are as effective as established multiparametric scores in predicting the need for transfusion, HS, MT, and hemostatic surgery. Due to its simplicity and practicality, Hb can serve as an alternative to complex scoring systems in prehospital settings, potentially improving triage and treatment outcomes in civilian and military trauma care.
Exploring physical activity in Transition Care Programs: Insights from service users and care providers- A mixed methods study
Authors: Gough Claire , Baker Nicky , Barr Christopher , Lewis Lucy K , Burdon Amanda , George Stacey
Published: November 2024

Background
Hospital admissions often lead to reduced activity levels in older individuals, making the transition home difficult. There is limited evidence on the activity levels of individuals receiving transition care and how physical activity is embedded into care. This study explores physical activity levels of service users during and following transition care and gathers perspectives from service users and care providers.
Methods
Accelerometry data were recorded at the start, end, and four weeks after transition care for eight service users, alongside measures of quality of life, loneliness, and mobility. Qualitative interviews captured service users’ experiences of returning home with transition care and their activity levels, while care providers discussed how physical activity is embedded into transition care and suggested improvements.
Results
Transition care services appear to increase activity levels, mobility, and quality of life of service users. However, users remained largely sedentary, spending 87% of each day inactive. Many felt overwhelmed and struggled to resume previous activities. Care providers emphasised the need for better education throughout the transition process.
Conclusions
While transition care services may increase physical activity levels, further interventions are needed to support older adults to increase and maintain physical activity levels after hospital discharge.
Trial registration
This research was retrospectively registered with The Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/fmv9p/)
Finite element modelling of cobalt base/molybdenum/chromium/silicon coating on pipeline steel substrates and a deepwater rigid jumper
Authors: Ruben Cuamatzi-Meléndez , Fernando Juárez-López , Apolinar Albiter-Hernández , Enrique Flores-Cuamatzi
Published: November 2024

This work presents the finite element modelling of a deepwater rigid jumper with cobalt-base/chromium/molybdenum/silicon, superalloys internal coating, and a coating-steel pipeline substrate. The objective of the coating is to protect a deepwater jumper steel against the corrosion caused by high content of H2S and CO2 in the oil and gas flow. Experimentally, cobalt-base/chromium/molybdenum/silicon coatings were developed, on substrates of pipeline steel, by a flame thermal spray process, and the properties of the coatings were analyzed. The mechanical properties of the coating were incorporated in the finite element models, and the elastic and plastic stress-strain material response of the jumper and cobalt-base/chromium/molybdenum/silicon coating were incorporated, with the aim to study the structural response of the coating under bending loads. Afterwards, the finite element model of the rigid jumper, with the internal coating, was subjected to hydrostatic and internal pressure representative of a deepwater oil and gas field. The obtained stresses in the coating were below the permissible stress limit, defined by international standards. At the coating-jumper interface, the stresses were also below the permissible stress limit, which means that the coating will remain attached to the jumper under the defined operational conditions. The results also showed that the developed finite element modelling strategy was able to reproduce the true stress-strain curves of the coating and jumper steel materials, which accurately reflected the results of the present finite element modelling.
Exploring the interactome of the Staphylococcus aureus sRNA Srn_9342 identified a complex formation with RNAIII leading to the modulation of δ-hemolysin expression
Authors: Bronsard Julie , Silard Chloé , Legros Julie , Hallier Marc , Augagneur Yoann
Published: November 2024

Background
Staphylococcus aureus is a major pathogen responsible for a variety of infections. It expresses a wide range of factors to precisely coordinate gene expression in response to the ever-changing conditions. Among them, regulatory RNAs appear as key players of post-transcriptional and translational regulations. Here, we investigated the role of Srn_9342, a sRNA candidate previously identified in a cluster of five srna genes in Newman strain.
Results
We showed that Srn_9342 is expressed under two isoforms of different lengths (Srn_9342S and Srn_9342L) whose transcript levels are divergent as a function of growth phase with Srn_9342S being expressed at low cell-density, then being substituted by Srn_9342L at high cell-density. Using MAPS, we search for RNA molecular partners of both Srn_9342S and Srn_9342L. Interestingly, we found that Srn_9342S was mainly bound to sRNAs whereas the expression of Srn_9342L led to the enrichment of mRNAs often linked with transport and metabolism. Among the sRNAs identified, the master regulator of virulence RNAIII appeared as an attractive partner. Using various constructs, we showed that the 5’ end Srn_9342 specifically binds the 3’ end RNAIII with high affinity in vitro. Finally, we report that the deletion of srn_9342 modulates the expression of the RNAIII encoded toxin δ-hemolysin, suggesting that the binding of Srn_9342 onto RNAIII may induce structural changes of RNAIII, and hence translation of the toxin.
Conclusions
Overall, we showed that Srn_9342 has an unusual pattern of expression and that uncovering its targetome suggests a potential role in S. aureus virulence.
Modified Algerian Montmorillonite Clay-Stabilized Pickering Miniemulsion for Hybrid Nanocomposite Elaboration
Authors: Khadidja KRADRA Brahma , SARDI Amina , BENNABI Souad , ROGALSKI Marek
Published: November 2024

The object of this research was to create hybrid nanoparticles from two monomers, butylacrylate (BA) and methyl methacrylate (MMA), using miniemulsion polymerization with Algerian montmorillonite (MMT-HTA+) and different surfactants, such as the mixed surfactant system (C5F11(EO)10/DDAB), undecafluoro (oxethylene) n-pentyldeca ether (C5F11(EO)10), and cationic didodecyldimethyldilammoniumbromide (DDAB). In addition, not much research has been done on Algerian montmorillonite, particularly with regard to its potential of creating exfoliated, hybrid nanoparticles. Several polymerization reaction parameters were optimized in this study, leading to the after results: a) an organophile MMT was successfully obtained by modifying the raw MMT through a two-stage reaction, and its structure was verified by X-Ray diffraction (XRD) analysis; b) the best cationic surfactant for stabilizing hybrid nanoparticles in MMA-co BA miniemulsion was DDAB. The most stable nanoparticles, which are typical of exfoliated nanocomposites, were formed with 0.5% of MMT-HTA+; the higher the percentage of clay, the less stable the miniemulsions and the higher their polydispersity. The effective use of n-hexadecane (HD) in stabilizing particles in miniemulsion is shown by the 50% size decrease observed with the addition of 2% of this molecule.
LMATDet:Lightweight Multi-scale Aerial TargetDetection with attention and efficient loss
Authors: Zhao Yuqing
Published: November 2024

Aerial image-based target detection presents challenges such as low accuracy in multiscale target detection, slow detection speed, missed detections, and false positives. To address these issues, this paper proposes a novel aerial target detection algorithm, LMATDet (Lightweight Multi-scale Aerial Target Detection with attention and efficient loss), specifically designed for multiscale object detection in aerial images. First, the introduction of the Box-Attention mechanism enables the network to effectively focus on relevant target features while reducing interference from irrelevant information, thus improving detection accuracy in complex scenarios. Second, the proposed algorithm incorporates a lightweight network architecture, LMATNet, utilizing DO-Conv in place of conventional convolutional layers. This substitution accelerates convergence, reduces network complexity,and enhances detection speed, with the model size reduced to just 36.45 MB. Additionally, the Focal-EIOU loss function, tailored for multiscale object detection, is employed for boundary regression. This approach not only mitigates overfitting but also significantly reduces both false positives and missed detections.The proposed method is validated using three benchmark aerial datasets:RSOD, NWPU VHR-10, and VisDrone. The achieved mean average precision(mAP) values are 94.98%, 95.43%, and 42.71%, respectively. The results demonstrate that LMATDet not only offers robust performance for multiscale target detection but also reduces missed detections while improving both robustness and generalization capability. Compared to other state-of-the-art algorithms,LMATDet exhibits significantly enhanced detection accuracy, thereby proving its superiority and versatility in aerial target detection.
Advanced Electrochemical Fabrication of Bimetallic Alloy Anchored Flexible Catalysts for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Ersozoglu M. Giray , Gursu Hurmus , Sarac A. Sezai , Sahin Yucel
Published: November 2024

Recently, nickel-cobalt/graphene-based hybrid electrocatalysts have gained significant attention for their use in hydrogen evolution reactions (HER). In this study, we report a facile electrochemical synthesis route for cobalt (Co) and nickel (Ni) doped/anchored graphene-like carbon fiber electrocatalysts, achieved in a single step using Yucel's method. The spectroscopic, morphological, and crystallographic structures of the Ni-Co alloys were analyzed in solutions containing various molar ratios of Ni:Co. The Ni-Co doped/anchored graphene-like carbon fiber electrocatalysts exhibited significantly enhanced electrocatalytic activity for HER compared to single metallic doped Ni and Co electrocatalysts. Notably, the Ni-Co@GrF2 electrocatalyst demonstrated the smallest Tafel slope 42 mV dec-1, which is comparable to the electrocatalytic activity of platinum..
Aircraft Range Fuel Consumption Prediction Using CNN- LSTM Enhanced by CEEMDAN and Improved Arctic Puffin Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Tang Weizhen , Dai Jie , Liu Bo , Hu Wenhai , Gong Ke , Fan Yijie
Published: November 2024

To effectively predict the fuel consumption of civil aviation aircraft during their flight routes, enhance fuel economy, and promote energy conservation and emission reduction, we propose a hybrid model that combines adaptive noise complete empirical mode decomposition (CEEMDAN) with an improved arctic puffin optimization (IAPO) algorithm optimized convolutional long short-term memory neural network (CNN-LSTM). Initially, the Pearson coefficient is employed for correlation analysis to reduce the nine-dimensional factors influencing aircraft fuel consumption, transforming them into five principal components. Subsequently, CEEMDAN is utilized to decompose the original fuel consumption data, yielding more regular subsequences. Subsequently, the convolutional neural network (CNN) efficiently extracts data features, which are then input into the LSTM network. Furthermore, utilizing the SPM chaotic map strategy for population initialization. The introduction of the golden sine operator mutation strategy enhances the local search capability of the algorithm, while the adaptive dive switching strategy adjusts the search intensity, significantly improving the global search performance and convergence speed of the Arctic Puffin optimization algorithm. Ultimately, the multi-strategy improved Arctic Puffin Optimization algorithm is utilized to adaptively optimize the hyperparameters of the CNN-LSTM model, allowing for the superimposition of each subsequence to yield the final prediction result. Simulation results indicate that the CEEMDAN-IAPO-CNN-LSTM model outperforms other comparative models in terms of prediction accuracy and exhibits lower prediction error. This model presents a novel and efficient method for predicting fuel consumption in airlines, offering valuable insights for reducing aircraft fuel consumption.
Clinical outcomes of early neonatal sepsis and associated factors in Debre- Tabor comprehensive specialized hospital in Amhara region, Ethiopia
Authors: Azanaw Kefyalew Amogne , Getu Bisrat Dessie , Shiferaw Sahlu Mitku , Shiferaw Dessie Aleminew
Published: November 2024

Background: Globally, early neonatal sepsis is one of the foremost reasons for exaggerated death and illness of neonates. It is also one of the most common causes of neonatal death in Ethiopia. Despite few studies related to clinical outcomes of early neonatal sepsis, there are inconsistencies among findings. Identification of risk factors and early initiation of therapy can significantly reduce the burden of neonatal illness and death.
Objective:The objective of this study was to assess the clinical outcomes of early neonatal sepsis and associated risk factors among neonates visited Debre-Tabor comprehensive specialized hospital in Amhara region in Ethiopia, 2024.
Method:Retrospective-cross-sectional study was employed. The data was collected from the NICU department registration book of Debre-Tabor comprehensive specialized hospital. A systematic random sampling technique was employed among 396 study participants using a well-organized check list. The data entry and analysis were conducted by using SPSS version 21. Descriptive statistics was computed. A binary logistic regression model was used. Adjusted Odds ratio (AOR) with 95% CI was used to measure the strength of association between explanatory variables and the outcome variables. Finally, a p-value of < 0.05 was considered as a statistically significant risk factor for early neonatal sepsis at a 95% confidence interval.
Result: from 396 study participants 276(69.7% (95% CI=64.4%-74.2%) of neonate had good clinical outcome of early neonatal sepsis. In multivariable analysis absence of birth injury (AOR=2.00, 95%CI: 1.13, 3.54), gestational age greater than 42 weeks (AOR=3.27, 95%CI: 1.75, 6.09), absence of respiratory distress (AOR=5.56, 95%CI: 3.39, 9.19), and institutional delivery (AOR=3.16, 95%CI: 11.73, 5.79) were significantly associated with clinical outcomes of early neonatal sepsis.
Conclusion and recommendation: In this finding a good clinical outcome of early neonatal sepsis has been reported. Further research is needed to understand the complex interplay of these factors and their implications for neonatal care.
VR Environment of Digital Design Laboratory: A Usability Study
Authors: Alnuaimi Mariam Ali , Awad Mamoun
Published: November 2024

Virtual Reality (VR) offers an immersive learning environment with the potential to revolutionize how students engage with complex topics and interact with their classes. This paper presents a usability study of our proposed educational VR application designed for the Digital Design & Computer Organization lab. We conducted a usability study with a wide range of students from different colleges, evaluating their performance on tasks within the VR environment and collecting their feedback on the application's design, functionality, and ease of usage. By analyzing quantitative data (task completion rates, time spent) and qualitative feedback (surveys, observations), this study identified potential usability issues and recommended improvements to enhance the learning experience within the VR application. The usability study showed that the majority of students found that the VR application immersive, engaging, and viewed their experience as helpful to better understand complex concepts.
Experimental Investigation on Surface Hardness of Shot Peened Laser Welded Super Austenite Stainless Steel/hastelloy C2000 Dissimilar Joints
Authors: A Thamarai Selvan , R Sarath Krishna , R Sathish , D Vijayakumar , P Veeramanikandan
Published: November 2024

The surface hardness of shot peened processed dissimilar joints of Super austenite stainless steel (SASS) and Hastelloy C2000 was analyzed by the laser beam welding (LBW). The proposed materials have promising role in marine, aerospace, piping and chemical industries. In this research, dissimilar joints of above said two materials were made by LBW after low pressure shot peening (LPSP) performed at the fusion zone (FZ) and the heat affected zone (HAZ). The microstructures and surface morphology were analyzed using Optical Microscopy (OM), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Energy Dispersive X-ray (EDX). Alpha and secondary phases generated at FZ and HAZ are identified in the X-ray diffraction (XRD) results. In FZ and HAZ, the high heat input damaged the α'- austenite phases, where the α phase and S phase were transformed into the α'-martensite phase and notable twin boundaries. Grain boundary growth was found on the outer and mid-surface layers of the weldments by compressive residual stress analysis. No cracks or flaws were found in the crystal structure. The hardness of the weldments was enhanced by the LPSP technique applied in both FZ and HAZ.
Activation of mGluR2/3 by LY379268 alleviates PTSD fear memories by down-regulating the CaMKII/CREB signaling pathway in the amygdala
Authors: Li Rui , Li Yu , Liu Lifen , Liu Shiqi , Sang Haohan , Lan Jiajun , Fang Xiangyu , Zhang Enqi , Fu Cong , Sun Hongwei , Sun Lin
Published: November 2024

Background
People with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) have recurrent memory flashbacks of traumatic events, leading to severe symptoms of anxiety and even phobias. Targeted drug staging interventions may eliminate or alleviate fear memory. The metabotropic glutamate receptor II (mGluR2/3) agonist LY379268 has been shown to reverse memory deficits; however, whether it can treat fear memory in PTSD during the consolidation period remains unclear.
Methods
Single prolonged stress and contextual fear conditioning (SPS&CFC) rat models were established. LY379268 was administered at varying concentrations (2, 6, and 12 µM) into the lateral ventricles during the consolidation period of fear memory. PTSD-like symptoms were assessed using the open-field, elevated plus-maze, and freezing behavior tests. Western blotting and immunofluorescence analyses were conducted to determine the phosphorylated levels of Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (P-CaMKII), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (P-ERK), and cyclic-AMP responsive element binding (P-CREB) proteins in the amygdala (AMY) region. Transmission electron microscopy was used to observe the synaptic ultrastructure changes in the AMY.
Results
Rats in the SPS&CFC group had increased levels of P-CaMKII, P-ERK, and P-CREB and damaged synaptic morphology in the AMY. Following the injection of 6 µM LY379268, improved exploration and freeze behaviors, reduced levels of AMY, and remodeling of the synaptic ultrastructure were observed. Administration of 12 µM LY379268 improved the anxiety and freeze behaviors and increased autonomous exploration in PTSD rats.
Conclusion
LY379268 administration may reduce fear memory in PTSD rats by regulating the CaMKII/CREB signaling pathway via mGluR2/3 activation within the AMY. Our results provide a promising target for alleviating fear memory in PTSD during the consolidation phase.
Downregulated transcription in chromosomal domains of midbrain dopamine neurons linked to schizophrenia.
Authors: Girdhar Kiran , Singh Swadha , Iskhakova Marina , Lambert Tova , Valada Aditi , Shokrian Neda , Evans Viviana , Bendl Jaroslav , Auluck Pavan , Marenco Stefano , Hoffman Gabriel , Roussos Panos , Akbarian Schahram
Published: November 2024

Ventral midbrain dopaminergic neurons are a key cell type for schizophrenia pathophysiology but information about cell type-specific genomic dysregulation in diseased brains is missing. We generated a unique midbrain functional genomics resource with 111 RNA-seq and 34 Hi-C chromosomal contact libraries for Nurr1+/NeuN + dopaminergic and their surrounding Nurr1-/NeuN- nuclei, collected from donors diagnosed with schizophrenia (SCZ) compared to neurotypical controls and to bipolar disorder (BD). Among the N = 340 dopamine neuron genes specifically dysregulated in SCZ were N = 104 downregulated, with selective enrichment for risk-associated synaptic plasticity and neuronal connectivity pathways and embedded within dopamine neuron-specific topologically associated chromosomal domains (TAD). Transcript-resolved analysis revealed 1,832 transcripts with altered expression in SCZ dopamine neurons, affecting key susceptibility genes such as the CNTNAP2, NRNX1, and SHANK2 neural cell adhesion molecules. This disease–associated transcriptomic remodeling in SCZ dopaminergic neurons was inversely correlated with corresponding transcriptome shifts in SCZ prefrontal cortex and striatum. Therefore, genomic dysregulation in the ventral midbrain of subjects diagnosed with SCZ selectively affects dopaminergic neurons, and includes a unilateral association of genetic risk with down-, but not upregulated transcription at the sites of highly organized chromosomal domains harboring neuron-specific genes with complex transcriptional architectures.
Multicomponent physical exercise programme among community-dwelling older adults who are users of home care services: A quasi-experimental pilot study
Authors: Ruiz-Fernández Aida , Irazusta Jon , Rezola-Pardo Chloe , Erezuma Unai Latorre , Goirigolzarri-Garaizar Andere , Ugalde-Aranzabal Nora , Espin Ander , Rodriguez-Larrad Ana
Published: November 2024

Objective
This quasi-experimental parallel pilot study aimed to analyse the feasibility and effectiveness of a multicomponent physical exercise programme (MPEP) among community-dwelling older adults who were users of home care services (HCS).
Methods
Forty-four participants were allocated to a MPEP group or a control (CON) group based on choice. Participants in the MPEP group performed individualised and progressive strength, balance and flexibility exercises three times per week for 16 weeks. One session was a group face-to-face session guided by a physical therapist, and the other two were individual home-based sessions following the Vivifrail programme. Feasibility was assessed via recruitment, adherence, safety and acceptability. Physical performance; nutritional, psycho-affective and cognitive status; and frailty were measured at baseline and after the intervention.
Results
Among the 604 eligible participants, 44 consented to participate. Completion rate was 7%. A total of 83% of participants attended face-to-face sessions with a compliance rate of 73%. Reported compliance with at-home sessions was 71%. No dangerous adverse events were reported. The participants reported an average satisfaction of 9 out of 10. Group-by-time interactions in favour of the MPEP group were found for the Short Physical Performance Battery (p=0.024) and Fried Frailty Scale (p=0.019). The MPEP group showed a decrease in the number of frail participants according to the Fried Frailty Scale (p=0.020) and the Short Physical Performance Battery (p=0.050). There were no other group-by-time interactions.
Conclusions
The MPEP is feasible and effective at improving physical performance and frailty status among community-dwelling older adults who are users of HCS (NCT05726214 in the ClinicalTrials.gov registry).
Open Educational Practices mit, durch und trotz Open Educational Resources
Authors: Schulte-Buskase Alina , Gruhn Annika
Published: November 2024

Der Beitrag thematisiert die Zusammenarbeit der Hochschulstandorte Siegen und Wuppertal im Rahmen des Projekts InDigO und ihre Gestaltung von Open Educational Practices (OEP) im Kontext inklusionsorientierter Lehrkräftebildung. Unter besonderer Betrachtung von Material und dessen Bedeutsamkeit im Hochschulkontext sowie Planungsprozessen im Kontext der Lehre werden sowohl die Lehrplanung als auch Hürden und Gelingensbedingungen einer Arbeit mit Open Educational Resources (OER) skizziert. OER zeigen dabei spezifische Chancen für die kritische Reflexion eigener und fremder Lehre, die besonders in der gemeinsamen Auseinandersetzung sichtbar werden. Forschung sollte weiterhin kritisch betrachten, wie und unter welchen Bedingungen die Entwicklung hin zu einer offenen Lehr-Lern-Kultur erfolgt und OER bedeutsam werden.