bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High standard uptake value of the primary lesion of hepatocellular carcinoma correlates with early recurrence after curative resection
Authors: Kato Kazuya , Noda Takehiro , Kobayashi Shogo , Yamanaka Chihiro , Sasaki Kazuki , Iwagami Yoshifumi , Yamada Daisaku , Tomimaru Yoshito , Takahashi Hidenori , Asaoka Tadafumi , Shimizu Junzo , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi
Published: April 2024

Background
Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT) is useful for detecting the presence of distant metastases in many types of cancer, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the clinical significance of the standard uptake value (SUV) in primary HCC lesions is unclear.
Aim
We investigated the relationship between the SUV, clinicopathological factors, and prognosis in HCC.
Methods
The retrospective analysis included 86 patients with HCC who underwent FDG-PET/CT prior to liver resection. The distribution of SUV was compared in three groups: no recurrence after surgery, recurrence within 2 years, and recurrence after 2 years. The optimal cut-off SUV were determined based on receiver operating characteristic curve analysis to detect the recurrence within 2 years. All patients were divided into two groups based on the cut-off: low and high SUV. Cox univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for disease-free survival.
Results
The SUV was significantly higher in patients with recurrence within 2 years. The optimal cut-off SUV was 5.0. The patients in the high SUV group had significantly higher des-γ-carboxy prothrombin, poorer differentiation, and larger tumor diameter than the low SUV group, and presented with pathologically positive intrahepatic metastases. Moreover, high SUV was a significant and independent prognostic factor. In a subgroup analysis, high SUV had a significantly lower 2-year disease-free survival rate than the low SUV group in tumors ≤ 3.5 cm.
Conclusions
High SUV (≥ 5) on FDG-PET/CT of the primary HCC lesion, especially tumors ≤ 3.5 cm, correlates with early recurrence after curative resection and is an independent prognostic factor.
The effect of Entamoeba histolytica Lectin Antigen and MicroRNA-643 on the development of microsatellite instability (MSI) in Colorectal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Haghighi Leila , Dalimi Abdolhossein , Pirestani Majid , Ghaffarifar Fatemeh
Published: April 2024

Globally, Entamoeba histolytica remains a leading cause of death. The impact of protozoa as environmental factors in microsatellite instability (MSI) remains largely unexplored, as are miRNAs as potential biomarkers for amoeba and in the context of colorectal disease. In this study, we investigated the relationship between the antigenic structure of the Eh-lectin and the altered expression of miRNA-643 and XIAP, a gene involved in apoptosis inhibition. The study aimed to detect E. histolytica, miRNA-643, XIAP, and MSI in 150 colorectal cancer biopsy samples. To achieve this, a multi-faceted approach employing immunohistochemistry (IHC), Multiplex PCR, RT-qPCR, and Real-Time PCR were utilized. For enhanced MSI diagnosis precision, PCR-Multiplex was performed concurrently with IHC. Among the 150 colorectal cancer biopsy samples analyzed, 39 (28 MSI-H and 11 MSI-L) exhibited microsatellite instability (MSI), while the remaining 111 were MSI-negative. Notably, co-occurrence of MSI and E. histolytica antigen was observed in 11 samples. These samples (positive for both MSI and E. histolytica antigen) showed an increased expression of miRNA-643, contrasting with XIAP expression. The concurrence of microsatellite instability (MSI) with E. histolytica antigen positivity and elevated miRNA-643 expression, contrasted with diminished XIAP inhibitor gene levels, in colorectal adenocarcinoma biopsy samples, strongly supports the hypothesis that this protozoan parasite plays a role in MSI development, through its potential involvement in apoptosis.
Evaluating the Influence of Adam and Ada-delta Optimizers on Varied Qubit Configurations in QLSTM Models
Authors: Namdeo Sachin , Nene Manisha J.
Published: April 2024

Quantum Machine Learning (QML) holds the promise of making significant changes to how Artificial Intelligence (AI) functions. A notable breakthrough in this field is the development of Quantum Long Short- Term Memory (QLSTM) networks, which exhibit faster learning compared to standard Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks. QLSTM builds upon classical LSTM networks but incorporates principles of quantum computation, allowing it to explore superposition and entanglement for parallel information processing. By using quantum bits (qubits), QLSTM potentially offers advantages for specific machine learning tasks. Despite its potential, QLSTM remains a relatively unexplored area within QML, particularly regarding its dependency on the number of qubits and the impact of different optimizers on its performance. This study aims to reveal valuable insights to enhance QLSTM and explore its potential applications in AI. The study focuses on two main aspects. Firstly, exploring how the Adam and Ada-delta optimization methods improve QLSTM models, playing a role in refining the performance of the quantum model. Secondly, the study delves into the consequences of using varying numbers of qubits in the QLSTM model. Understanding how the quantity of qubits influences performance is essential for optimizing the network's efficiency. By addressing these aspects, the study seeks to contribute to advancing QLSTM and offering valuable knowledge for its potential applications in the AI field. The findings may suggest exciting opportunities for future research on QLSTM models, prompting exploration into optimization strategies, regularization techniques, and quantum data augmentation. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of leveraging ensemble learning and validating applicability in real-world quantum computing scenarios. These efforts are crucial for advancing understanding and maximizing potential in the continually evolving landscape of quantum computing applications.
Causal association between body mass index and risk of colon polyp: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Ning Xin-Jie , Li Jian-Feng , Guo Hui-Long , Chen Jing-Yao
Published: April 2024

Purpose
The relationship between obesity and colorectal polyps remain inconclusive .This study aimed to examine whether body mass index (BMI) is causally associated with colon polyp.
Methods
A two‐sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis using the inverse variance weighted (IVW), weighted median and MR‐Egger regression methods was performed. We used the publicly available summary statistics data sets of genomewide association studies (GWAS) meta‐analyses for BMI in individuals of European descent (n = 322 154; GIANT consortium) as the exposure and a GWAS for colon polyp included in the UK Biobank (total n = 463,010; case = 4,779, control = 458,231) as the outcome.
Results
We selected 76 single nucleotide polymorphisms at genome‐wide significance from GWASs on BMI as the instrumental variables. The IVW method showed evidence to support a causal association between BMI and colon polyp beta =0.002, SE =0.001, P = 0.012). MR‐Egger regression revealed that directional pleiotropy was unlikely to be biasing the result (intercept = -9.3e-06；P =0.889), but it showed no causal association between BMI and colon polyp (beta = 0.002， SE =0.002, P = 0.09). However, the weighted median approach yielded evidence of a causal association between BMI and colon polyp (beta = 0.001, SE =0.001, P = 0.01). Cochran's Q test and the funnel plot indicated no evidence of
heterogeneity and asymmetry, indicating no directional pleiotropy.
Conclusion
The results of MR analysis support that BMI may be causally associated with an increased risk of colon polyp.
First records of testate amoebae from the town of Ugolnye Kopi, Chukotka (Russian Arctic)
Authors: Sysoev Vlad V. , Neplyukhina Alisa A. , Petrovsky Andrey B.
Published: April 2024

Testate amoebae are a useful group of species for biogeographic research. Recent knowledge of the distribution of testate amoebae in the Arctic is incomplete because of large geographic gaps in species distribution data. In this study, we present the first report of testate amoebae from the eastern part of Chukotka in the Russian Arctic, which may at least partially bridge the gap between Alaska and the studied regions of the Russian Arctic. Testate amoebae were collected from 11 waterbodies in the vicinity of the town of Ugolnye Kopi, which is located on the coast of Anadyr Bay in the Bering Sea. Testate amoebae were abundant and active in the studied water bodies, even in the extreme physical environment of Chukotka. The genus and species structure of testate amoebae have been described. We found clear differences in the species structure of the assemblages inhabiting the studied water bodies. Our results showed that most of the testate amoeba assemblages in this part of Chukotka were dominated by Centropyxis pontigulasiformis, which is a typical Arctic species, assemblages found in small water bodies show more affinity to those from Spitzbergen, and the assemblage dominated by Cucurbitella mespiliformis was not previously reported in the Arctic. These results highlight the limited knowledge of the abundance and diversity of testate amoebae over large areas of the globe.
An extended energy analysis of managed forestry systems: Accounting for foregone biomass as an indicator of ecosystem impact
Authors: Dunlap Josh , Schramski John R.
Published: April 2024

Conventional energy analyses of forestry systems capture only human inputs and harvests, neglecting impacts to forest biomass stocks resulting from intensive management. This gap is addressed by extending the boundaries of forestry operations to the whole forest ecosystem. These new boundaries allow for the quantification of cumulative foregone biomass (ΔBc, the difference between accumulated potential and existing forest biomass stocks over time) under differing management scenarios to supplement the interpretation of conventional energy metrics such as net energy (NE) and the ratio of energy return to energy invested (EROI). Like existing models in the literature, our results confirm that less intensive management approaches achieve higher EROI values due to lower inputs. However, more significantly, magnitudes of ΔBc remain 1-2 orders of magnitude larger than NE over 100 years regardless of management scenario, and thus highlight an imbalance between the industrial and ecological energy dimensions of managed forests. This extended energy model begins to illustrate the overlooked role of ecological energy storage in forest management and offers insights to identify and design more sustainable management practices that can balance energy efficiency while minimizing resultant ecosystem impacts.
Impact of external obstructions and dirt accumulation on sustainable daylight performance through intelligent parametric optimization for open-plan offices.
Authors: Thakur Rohit , Sharma Aniket
Published: April 2024

Daylight is frequently viewed as a valuable resource for increasing energy efficiency and improving indoor visual comfort. The quality and quantity of natural light entering a building depends on both internal and external factors. People require adequate daylight at their workstations, particularly in open-plan settings, in order to function well. The development of dirt or particles on the windows, such as moss, dust, water, and sand, and shading effects due to nearby obstructions prevents light energy from accessing the created envelope. The open-plan office in Hamirpur district of Himachal Pradesh, India was chosen for this study to undertake an experiment with varied amounts of dirt accumulation and nearby shading effect. A thorough survey of the literature is also performed in order to uncover research methodologies applied to optimization of daylight. This research shows how parametric modeling may be used to increase the daylight performance of an open-plan office in a humid subtropical environment (Cwa). The foundation model of an open-plan office was used to optimize daylight. To conduct the study, a grasshopper script is created using the primary plug-ins Honeybee, Ladybug, Octopus, and TT Toolbox. The statistical mean bias error (MBE) is used to validate the base model. Using sensitivity analysis, the results are further evaluated to discover interrelationships.
Propose A Simple General Love Model in Biological Systems
Authors: Hu Xiaolan
Published: April 2024

Love is a topic of immense interest with unique ties to human existence, with almost no solid scientific mechanism to date beyond the neurological systems. Here, I propose that the basic unit of love may exist as a physical circular system with frequencies. Simple models built on this hypothesis can be employed to simulate cell and extended to understand cancer initiation. Additionally, this simple model could help us discover novel signals in empirical biological data that are currently ignored in conventional analyses. Further development of the framework may have broad applications in multiple disciplines.
Morphologically driven sedimentation patterns on a coral reef
Authors: Sartori Greta , Boles Elisabeth L , Monismith Stephen G , Dunbar Robert B , Mumby Peter J , Khrizman Alexandra , Tatebe Lyvonsky , Capozzi Rossella
Published: April 2024

Coral reef sediment research focused on quantifying production sources, suspended sediment, and trapping or accumulation rates, overlooking the role of hydrodynamics and reef morphology in determining these. We used an interdisciplinary approach, focusing on the links between physical features and processes and hypothesized how they affect reef recovery. Typhoon Bopha hit Ngederrak Reef (Palau) in 2012, significantly reducing coral cover. The reef is characterized by spur and grooves (SAGs) and bordered by two tidal channels, but SAGs are not present in its northernmost part, near one of these channels. The reef has recovered in the SAG area, but its recovery was slower in the north. Flow measurements and sediment samples taken in SAG and non-SAG areas were used to calculate the threshold for sediment movement due to mean flows and wave orbital velocities. Sediment on SAGs was mainly suspended by waves, but the direction of net transport was determined by the mean flow. The threshold for sediment movement due to mean flow was reached 80–100% of the time on spurs, in grooves it was reached 60% and 33% of the times during flooding and ebbing tides respectively. This tidal asymmetry suggests that sediment was removed from spurs and transported seaward in grooves to be stored at depth. The steeper slope in grooves (8%) relative to the non-SAG area (4%), favors rubble accumulation and stabilization. This information can help predict localized sediment impacts as well as describing the role of the widely distributed SAG morphology in promoting coral reef recovery.
Co-administration of atorvastatin and piperine impairs fertility potential in male Wistar rats through disruption of cholesterol homeostasis and testosterone production
Authors: Ghosh Sanjib , Sarkar Sweata , Mistry Jayanta , Biswas Maharaj
Published: April 2024

Background
Atorvastatin is administered to treat hyperlipidemia. The fruit of the black pepper plant contains the alkaloid piperine. Both atorvastatin and piperine are known to have hypolipidemic effects. The goal of the current investigation was to assess the effects of atorvastatin and piperine on reproductive potential in male Wistar rats. For this study, twenty rats were obtained and placed into four groups, each with five rats. Group I served as a control, group II animals are treated with atorvastatin (8 mg/kg BW), group III animals received piperine (10 mg/kg BW) and group IV animals were co-administered with piperine (10 mg/kg BW) and atorvastatin (8 mg/kg BW). All treatments were done by using oral gavage for consecutive 28 days and thereafter assessed for lipid profile, H-E staining, sperm parameter analysis, testosterone level detection using ELISA.
Results
The results showed that co-administration of atorvastatin and piperine (p < 0.05) significantly reduced weight of reproductive organs, changed histoarchitectural patterns of seminiferous tubules, epididymis, seminal vesicle. Serum and testicular cholesterol and testosterone levels of atorvastatin and piperine co-treated (p < 0.05) groups were found to decrease. Sperm count, motility and viability were decreased significantly in atorvastatin and piperine co-treated animals.
Conclusion
Results of this study revealed that consumption of piperine (active ingredient of black pepper) along with atorvastatin (lipid-lowering drug) have deleterious effects on reproductive potential of male rat.
Mineral precipitation sequence from multi-stage fluids released by eclogite during high-pressure metamorphism
Authors: Gong Ting-Nan , Du Jin-Xue , Zhang Li-Fei , Chen Zhen-Yu , Zhang Ze-Ming , Wang Wei-(RZ) , Qu Yuan-Ru
Published: April 2024

Arc magmas above subduction zones hold abundant fluid-mobile elements attributed to fluids released from the dehydrating subducted oceanic crust. However, the quantity of trace elements in the fluids and their evolution with the metamorphic processes during subduction and exhumation are still unclear. The precipitation sequence of vein minerals preserves the nature of multi-stage high-pressure (HP) metamorphic fluids and the fingerprint of mass exchange in deep subduction zones. In this contribution, we conducted detailed petrological studies and phase equilibria modeling on a unique HP omphacite-rich vein and its host eclogite from the Chinese southwestern Tianshan. The host eclogite consists mainly of garnet, omphacite, epidote, glaucophane, phengite, quartz, and rutile. Garnet in the eclogite records prograde subduction and early exhumation characterized by decompression heating at P-T conditions of ∼2.4–2.6 GPa and 460–540 °C. The embedded omphacite-rich vein has similar mineral assemblage to the host eclogite. Garnet grains in this vein are predominantly distributed along or intersect the vein wall, which records similar eclogite-facies metamorphic conditions to the host eclogite. Omphacite is dominant in the vein, while epidote and glaucophane occur interstitially. Phase equilibria modeling reveals sequential growth of garnet-dominated, omphacite-dominated, and epidote-dominated assemblages from fluids originating from the breakdown of different hydrous minerals. These lines of evidence suggest that the formation of multi-stage HP fluids are a continuous long-term process with spontaneous short-distance transport and sequential mineral precipitation. Calculated fluid compositions demonstrate that the fluids released by lawsonite breakdown during exhumation have great potential to modify the trace element systematics of arc magmas. Our findings reveal the nature and evolution of multi-stage HP metamorphic fluids from internal sources during subduction and exhumation of oceanic crust, providing valuable insights into the chemical compositions of arc magmas.
EFFECTIVENESS OF CAREGIVER MEDIATED PSYCHOSOCIAL INTERVENTIONS ON KNOWLEDGE, COPING OF CAREGIVERS OF CHILDREN WITH ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER AT SELECTED SETTINGS
Authors:   Ph.D. Nursing Scholar., S. Avanthika , J. Hemavathy ,   Professor cum Head of the Department of Mental Health Nursing, Omayal Achi College of Nursing., N. Jaya ,   Professor cum Dean Shenbagha college of Nursing., D. Celina ,   Vice-Principal, Omayal Achi College of Nursing., Jose Ciby ,   Principal, Venkateshwara Nursing College, Affliatedto The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Published: April 2024

Background: In India, prevalence of ADHD among adolescents is 7.1%. The prevalence of ADHD range for children aged 8-15 years was between 7.6% to 15%. There is a need to improve the knowledge and coping of the caregivers of children with ADHD, in order to enhance the level of knowledge on ADHD in caregivers and to promote the coping strategies of caregivers of children with ADHD. Aim and objective: To assess the effectiveness of the caregiver mediated psychosocial intervention on knowledge and coping of the caregivers of children with ADHD Materials and Methods: A quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental non-equivalent control group design was chosen for the study involving 30 caregivers who were selected using a non-probability purposive sampling technique. A structured knowledge questionnaire and Cravers brief cope inventory was used as the data collection tool. Results: It was revealed that in experimental group, the overall mean knowledge score of caregivers in pre-test was 6.80 knowledge and it was 11.20 in post-test with the mean difference of 4.40 and t value was found to be 7.06, which showed high statistical significance. In experimental group the overall mean coping score of caregivers, in pre-test was 60.33 and it was 82.20 in post-test with the mean difference of 21.87 and t value was found to be 14.97, which showed high statistical significance. Conclusion: The study concluded that the caregiver mediated psychosocial intervention was effective in enhancing knowledge and increasing the effective coping among caregivers of children with ADHD.
EXTRACTION AND CHARACTERIZATION OF Î’-GALACTOSIDASE ENZYME FROM ZIZIPHUS SPINA-CHRISTI FOR FOOD APPLICATIONS
Authors:   Department of Food Sciences, College of Agriculture, University of Anbar, Baghdad, Ramadi -31001, Iraq., Almuharib Omar , Nazar Hasan Anmar ,   Department of Food Sciences, College of Agriculture, University of Anbar, Baghdad, Ramadi -31001, Iraq.
Published: April 2024

Galactosidaseis an industrially important enzymewitha number of applications in dairy, fermentation, and food industries. The study was carried out to extract and characterize the galactosidase enzymefromZiziphusspina-christi,a therapeutic herb. The enzyme was studied for pH, temperature sensitivity, and heavy metal effects on enzyme activity. The enzyme activity of galactosidase was analysed for its capacity to hydrolyze 2-nitrophenyl -D-galactopyranoside (ONPG). The results show that at a temperature of 50 Â°Cand pH 5.5, the enzyme was most active.The Km and Vmax of the enzymewas 3.65 mmand 0.18 mol/min. HgCl2 and KCN was fully inhibited by the activity ofÎ²-galactosidase from Ziziphusspina-christi.After 4h, Ziziphusspina-christiÎ²-galactosidase reduced milk lactose by 38.5% and 70%. Hg+2was decreased most heavily by Î²-galactosidase activity, whereas Cu+2reduced the least. Study results confirm the efficacy ofÎ²-galactosidaseenzymefrom Ziziphusspina-christi leaf extract which can be utilized in food and healthcare industry.
OCULAR BLUNT TRAUMA IN BUNDELKHAND REGION: A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY IN BUNDELKHAND REGION
Authors:   Professor and Head, Department of Ophthalmology, M.L.B. Medical College, Jhansi., Kumar Jitendra , Tolia Sikhha ,   Junior Resident, Department of Ophthalmology, M.L.B. Medical College, Jhansi.
Published: April 2024

Background: Ocular injuries can be classified into mechanical and non-mechanical injuries. Ocular injuries are more common in young patients than in elderly or female people. About thirty percent of eye injuries are caused by blunt objects. The most common mode of ocular injury was road traffic accident followed by occupational hazard. Material and Methods: The study was retrospective study of 50 patients who had blunt ocular trauma from November 2022 to October 2023 . Patient data, mode and extent of injury, management and outcome was noted and analyzed which was conducted in patients with definite history of recent blunt ocular trauma of all age. Results: During our study period, 50 patients of blunt ocular trauma were evaluated. Majority of patients were above 25 years age, out of which majority of patients were male (70%) and the most common mode of injury was road traffic accident followed by occupational injury. Majority of patients were managed at our centre both medically as well as conservatively, few cases which requires further management (traumatic dislocation of lens, corneal tear with grade 4 hyphaema) were referred to higher centre for further management. Conclusion: Blunt ocular trauma was more seen with Road traffic accidents and were more in males than females. Early and prompt detection with appropriate management lead to prevention of further complications.
ITS ABOUT TIME! PARANOIA AND SELF-HARM IN GENDER MINORITY TEEN IN INDIA: A CASE REPORT
Authors: Sood Kanuja , Ashraf Sahar , Trivedi Chintan , Jain Shailesh
Published: April 2024

In conservative social cultures, such as those in South Asia, societal norms often lead individuals to neglect or suppress the expression of their perceived gender identity if different from their birth assignment. Gender incongruence (GI) occurs the gender identity of a person does not align with the gender assigned at birth. If GI causes significant distress or problems in functioning lasting for at least 6 months, it is described as gender dysphoria (GD). This case study contributes to understanding how gender dysphoria may result in personality disorders such as paranoid personality disorder in a conservative society. Removing societal taboos and accepting individuals with their perceived gender can lead to timely diagnosis and management of patients, preventing severe outcomes.
STUDYING THE PHYSICAL PROPERTIES OF PVA-PEG LOADED WITH DIFFERENT CONCENTRATIONS OF LIGNOSULFONATE
Authors:   Department of Physics, College of Science, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia., Alhodaib Aiyeshah , Alharbi Najah ,   Department of Physics, College of Science, Qassim University, Buraydah 51452, Saudi Arabia.
Published: April 2024

Polyvinyl Alcohol (PVA) and Polyethylene Glycol (PEG) blend composite films were prepared using the casting technique. The study aims to investigate the effect of the addition of various Lignosulfonate (LS) concentrations at (0.01, 0.02, and 0.04 wt %) on the optical and structural properties of the PVA/PEG using UVâ€“VIS spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The results showed that the addition of LS led to a more compact structure of PVA/PEG, which increased its refractive index and amorphous phase. This resulted in a reduction in the optical energy gap that could be attributed to the increase in the disordered structure of the composites. Additionally, the Absorbance of PVA/PEG/LS composite film increased as the LS doping concentration increasedin the matrix. These results reflect the proper dispersion of LS into the PVA/PEGmatrix, causing a strong intermolecular interaction between LS and PVA/PEG blends, suggesting strong hydrogen bond formation between the hydroxyl group in PVA chains and the outer site groups of LS.This study has yielded significant insights that may aid in the advancement of polymer applications in industries by reducing costs. Theseresults could be instrumental in enhancing production processes and making the use of polymers a more viable and cost-effective option for industrial operations.
INTRA-ORAL LINGUAL SCHWANNOMA - A RARE CASE REPORT FROM AN INDIAN TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
Authors: Mardam Sangita , Rathod amd Rahul Rajbhar Sneha
Published: April 2024

Schwannomas are most noted in the head and neck region, and their occurrence in the oral cavity is rare. Due to the rarity of intraoral schwannomas, are typically excluded from the differential diagnosis of tongue masses. Here we present such a case report describing the rare occurrence of an intra-oral lingual schwannoma in a young, male patient. The diagnosis was noted after histopathological assessment of the lesion, highlighting the importance of histopathology. Complete surgical excision of the lesion was effective without recurrence.
AN IDENTIFICATION MODEL USED FOR ARABIC LIBYAN DIALECTS BASED ON MACHINE LEARNING APPROACH
Authors:   Department of Information Systems, Faculty of Information Technology University of Tripoli, Libya., Abdeldaiem Mahboub Mohamed , Gopi Krishna Tiruveedula ,   Adama Science and Technology University, Department of Computer Science and Engineering, Adama, Ethiopia., Srinivasa Rao Pyla ,   Senior Manager, Cyber Security, Capgemini, India.
Published: April 2024

In this research work we have especially studied both Modern Standard Arabic Language and Libyan Dialects. The focus of our study involved an in-depth analysis of both Modern Standard Arabic Language and Libyan Dialects through the lens of Natural Language Processing (NLP). Our primary objective was to assess the efficacy of a novel Machine Learning Model in enhancing performance and accurately categorizing the dataset for identifying Libyan dialects, while also addressing the preprocessing requirements of the diverse Libyan Dialects dataset. The core function of our developed Model was to transform the preprocessed Dialects dataset into its corresponding standard Arabic roots, recognizing that Libyan dialects are primarily spoken rather than written. Our identification model was specifically designed to navigate the challenges posed by these distinct Dialects, aiming to mitigate ambiguities that could potentially impact the models effectiveness. The Arabic Libyan dialects identification model we proposed was tailored to leverage Natural Language Processing techniques to automatically determine the Arabic Libyan dialect present in a given text. This model aligns with the foundational principles of NLP, serving as a crucial initial step in a range of natural language processing applications such as machine translation, multilingual text-to-speech synthesis, and cross-language text generation. Our research paper provides a comprehensive overview of the Arabic Libyan dialects identification model, highlighting the utilization of feature representation techniques to train the proposed ML model effectively.
PROGNOSTIC SIGNIFICANCE OF SOCS IN REGULATING CANCER PROGRESSION
Authors:   Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, 3940 N Elm Street, Denton, TX, USA., Jargumalla Sumasri , Vinay Teja Parimi Sai ,   Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, 3940 N Elm Street, Denton, TX, USA., Kurapati Naveen ,   Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, 3940 N Elm Street, Denton, TX, USA., Ali Mohammed Saif ,   Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, 3940 N Elm Street, Denton, TX, USA.Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of North Texas, 3940 N Elm Street, Denton, TX, USA., Reddy Busyaka Harinatha ,   Department of Rehabilitation and Health Services, University of North Texas, 3940 N Elm Street, Denton, TX, USA., Das Aditi ,   Department of Biotechnology, KL University, Vaddeswaram, Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, India., Parveen Huma ,   Department of Biotechnology, Anwarul Uloom College, Osmania University, Hyderabad, Telangana, India., Singh Ranwas Reethika ,   Department of Molecular Biology, Cresent Biosciences, ICRAB Campus, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Published: April 2024

Suppressor of cytokine signalling (SOCS) proteins have emerged as crucial regulators in cancer progression, exhibiting significant prognostic implications. This review explores the prognostic significance of SOCS in various cancer types and their role in modulating key signalling pathways involved in tumour growth, metastasis, and immune evasion. Understanding the intricate interplay between SOCS proteins and cancer progression provides valuable insights into developing targeted therapies and prognostic markers for improved patient management and outcomes. SOCS proteins are pivotal regulators of immune responses and inflammation, but their dysregulation has been implicated in cancer development and progression. We explore the mechanisms by which SOCS proteins exert their effects on oncogenic signalling pathways, such as JAK/STAT, PI3K/AKT, and MAPK pathways, highlighting their potential as therapeutic targets. Furthermore, understanding the complex interplay between SOCS proteins and cancer holds promise for the development of novel therapeutic strategies and precision medicine approaches tailored to individual patients.
Repurchase intention in sports brand industry in China: Attributes of live streamers and customer-to-customer interaction of live streaming e-commerce
Authors: Hui Li Wang , Sanuri Mohd Mokhtar Sany , Ahmad Azanin
Published: April 2024

The rapid growth of live streaming e-commerce is hindered by its high rate of product returns, which poses a challenge to its long-term sustainability. Specifically, clothes shoppers account for 30% of all sales made during live broadcasts. This study aims to evaluate the impact of live streaming e-commerce on repurchase intention in the sports brand industry in China. The paper used quantitative research methods with 398 data collected from consumers of sports brands who were willing to provide information regarding their shopping experience on the live streaming platform. 224 respondents were females (56.3%), and 174 were males (43.7%). The study adopted a questionnaire to collect the data. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling was used to test the correlation between the variables. The results revealed direct and positive effect of consumer trust (β = 0.397, p = 0.000) and perceived value (β = 0.215, p = 0.001) on repurchase intention in live streaming e-commerce. The findings also indicated that both consumer trust and perceived value play a mediating role. In addition, the results supported the assumption that the characteristics of live streamers (β = 0.389, p = 0.000) have a positive impact on consumer trust, and customer-to-customer interaction (β = 0.678, p = 0.000) has a significant impact on perceived value. Finally, sports brands are advised to optimize live streaming platforms to better meet consumers’ needs.
Acknowledgment The authors acknowledge Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) that supported this study.
Fate and behavior of microplastics in wastewater, accumulation in organisms and effects
Authors: Egea-Corbacho Agata , Franco Ana Amelia , Martín-García Ana Pilar , Quiroga José María , Coello María Dolores
Published: April 2024

Studies on how microplastics (MPs) behave in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are increasing day by day. Although conventional WWTPs can efficiently remove MPs (64–99%), when considering the daily discharge rate, this percentage would not be sufficient. The total amount of MPs would still be discharged daily into the environment; therefore, the final effluent can act as one of the main routes of entry of MPs into aquatic environments. This chapter reviews the behavior of MPs in the different WWTP units, as well as their accumulation in the sludge. Subsequently, a discussion on how the MPs from the WWTP can reach the receiving media, such as aquatic or terrestrial media (water line and sludge line), to finally discuss how the fauna is affected by the entry of the MPs into the environment. These MPs can be ingested by aquatic life forms, leading to their bioaccumulation and biomagnification along the food chain, and causing negative effects on tissues, organs, and metabolism. MPs can also act as transport vehicles for other emerging pollutants such as pharmaceuticals and pesticides, increasing their hazardousness.
Os “profissionais” de educação de adultos e a importância dos contextos de trabalho para o seu processo de aprendizagem e construção de saber: Um processo suficiente?
Authors: Loureiro Armando Paulo Ferreira
Published: April 2024

Não existe, de forma generalizada, a exigência de se ter uma formação académica especializada para se poder trabalhar na educação de adultos. Partindo desta realidade, há uma questão à qual temos procurado responder com base em várias investigações concretizadas ao longo dos anos: como é que aqueles que desenvolvem as suas atividades na educação de adultos aprendem e constroem os saberes necessários para efetuarem as suas funções?  Neste artigo reflete-se sobre o relevo que os contextos de trabalho podem ter nesse processo. Os resultados a que temos chegado apontam quatro grandes dimensões implicadas em tal processo, tendo plena consciência que ele é mais vasto: a formação profissional contínua; a construção e reconstrução da aprendizagem e do saber; a transferência das aprendizagens e do saber, sua circulação e coletivização; e a dimensão temporal da aprendizagem e do saber. Mas, os resultados mostram-nos também que este património construído a espaços é frequentemente destruído, porque não há uma aposta política contínua na educação de adultos. Desta forma é difícil defender que há profissionais da educação de adultos, é difícil falar da existência generalizada de um dos que seria um dos seus traços identitários mais marcantes: um conhecimento, um saber específico que os distinga. Assim, a identidade profissional dos que trabalham na educação de adultos continua a ser ténue e o processo de profissionalização de difícil realização.
A Web-Based, Respondent-Driven Sampling Survey Among Men Who Have Sex With Men (Kai Noi): Description of Methods and Characteristics
Authors: Karuchit Samart , Thiengtham Panupit , Tanpradech Suvimon , Srinor Watcharapol , Yingyong Thitipong , Naiwatanakul Thananda , Northbrook Sanny , Hladik Wolfgang
Published: April 2024

Background

Thailand’s HIV epidemic is heavily concentrated among men who have sex with men (MSM), and surveillance efforts are mostly based on case surveillance and local biobehavioral surveys.

Objective

We piloted Kai Noi, a web-based respondent-driven sampling (RDS) survey among MSM.

Methods

We developed an application coded in PHP that facilitated all procedures and events typically used in an RDS office for use on the web, including e-coupon validation, eligibility screening, consent, interview, peer recruitment, e-coupon issuance, and compensation. All procedures were automated and e-coupon ID numbers were randomly generated. Participants’ phone numbers were the principal means to detect and prevent duplicate enrollment. Sampling took place across Thailand; residents of Bangkok were also invited to attend 1 of 10 clinics for an HIV-related blood draw with additional compensation.

Results

Sampling took place from February to June 2022; seeds (21 at the start, 14 added later) were identified through banner ads, micromessaging, and in online chat rooms. Sampling reached all 6 regions and almost all provinces. Fraudulent (duplicate) enrollment using “borrowed” phone numbers was identified and led to the detection and invalidation of 318 survey records. A further 106 participants did not pass an attention filter question (asking recruits to select a specific categorical response) and were excluded from data analysis, leading to a final data set of 1643 valid participants. Only one record showed signs of straightlining (identical adjacent responses). None of the Bangkok respondents presented for a blood draw.

Conclusions

We successfully developed an application to implement web-based RDS among MSM across Thailand. Measures to minimize, detect, and eliminate fraudulent survey enrollment are imperative in web-based surveys offering compensation. Efforts to improve biomarker uptake are needed to fully tap the potential of web-based sampling and data collection.
Novel Approach for Detecting Respiratory Syncytial Virus in Pediatric Patients Using Machine Learning Models Based on Patient-Reported Symptoms: Model Development and Validation Study
Authors: Kawamoto Shota , Morikawa Yoshihiko , Yahagi Naohisa
Published: April 2024

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) affects children, causing serious infections, particularly in high-risk groups. Given the seasonality of RSV and the importance of rapid isolation of infected individuals, there is an urgent need for more efficient diagnostic methods to expedite this process.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the performance of a machine learning model that leverages the temporal diversity of symptom onset for detecting RSV infections and elucidate its discriminatory ability.

Methods

The study was conducted in pediatric and emergency outpatient settings in Japan. We developed a detection model that remotely confirms RSV infection based on patient-reported symptom information obtained using a structured electronic template incorporating the differential points of skilled pediatricians. An extreme gradient boosting–based machine learning model was developed using the data of 4174 patients aged ≤24 months who underwent RSV rapid antigen testing. These patients visited either the pediatric or emergency department of Yokohama City Municipal Hospital between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2015. The primary outcome was the diagnostic accuracy of the machine learning model for RSV infection, as determined by rapid antigen testing, measured using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. The clinical efficacy was evaluated by calculating the discriminative performance based on the number of days elapsed since the onset of the first symptom and exclusion rates based on thresholds of reasonable sensitivity and specificity.

Results

Our model demonstrated an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.811 (95% CI 0.784-0.833) with good calibration and 0.746 (95% CI 0.694-0.794) for patients within 3 days of onset. It accurately captured the temporal evolution of symptoms; based on adjusted thresholds equivalent to those of a rapid antigen test, our model predicted that 6.9% (95% CI 5.4%-8.5%) of patients in the entire cohort would be positive and 68.7% (95% CI 65.4%-71.9%) would be negative. Our model could eliminate the need for additional testing in approximately three-quarters of all patients.

Conclusions

Our model may facilitate the immediate detection of RSV infection in outpatient settings and, potentially, in home environments. This approach could streamline the diagnostic process, reduce discomfort caused by invasive tests in children, and allow rapid implementation of appropriate treatments and isolation at home. The findings underscore the potential of machine learning in augmenting clinical decision-making in the early detection of RSV infection.
The Real-World Usability, Feasibility, and Performance Distributions of Deploying a Digital Toolbox of Computerized Assessments to Remotely Evaluate Brain Health: Development and Usability Study
Authors: Attarha Mouna , Mahncke Henry , Merzenich Michael
Published: April 2024

Background

An ongoing global challenge is managing brain health and understanding how performance changes across the lifespan.

Objective

We developed and deployed a set of self-administrable, computerized assessments designed to measure key indexes of brain health across the visual and auditory sensory modalities. In this pilot study, we evaluated the usability, feasibility, and performance distributions of the assessments in a home-based, real-world setting without supervision.

Methods

Potential participants were untrained users who self-registered on an existing brain training app called BrainHQ. Participants were contacted via a recruitment email and registered remotely to complete a demographics questionnaire and 29 unique assessments on their personal devices. We examined participant engagement, descriptive and psychometric properties of the assessments, associations between performance and self-reported demographic variables, cognitive profiles, and factor loadings.

Results

Of the 365,782 potential participants contacted via a recruitment email, 414 (0.11%) registered, of whom 367 (88.6%) completed at least one assessment and 104 (25.1%) completed all 29 assessments. Registered participants were, on average, aged 63.6 (SD 14.8; range 13-107) years, mostly female (265/414, 64%), educated (329/414, 79.5% with a degree), and White (349/414, 84.3% White and 48/414, 11.6% people of color). A total of 72% (21/29) of the assessments showed no ceiling or floor effects or had easily modifiable score bounds to eliminate these effects. When correlating performance with self-reported demographic variables, 72% (21/29) of the assessments were sensitive to age, 72% (21/29) of the assessments were insensitive to gender, 93% (27/29) of the assessments were insensitive to race and ethnicity, and 93% (27/29) of the assessments were insensitive to education-based differences. Assessments were brief, with a mean duration of 3 (SD 1.0) minutes per task. The pattern of performance across the assessments revealed distinctive cognitive profiles and loaded onto 4 independent factors.

Conclusions

The assessments were both usable and feasible and warrant a full normative study. A digital toolbox of scalable and self-administrable assessments that can evaluate brain health at a glance (and longitudinally) may lead to novel future applications across clinical trials, diagnostics, and performance optimization.
Early In-Bed Cycle Ergometry With Critically Ill, Mechanically Ventilated Patients: Statistical Analysis Plan for CYCLE (Critical Care Cycling to Improve Lower Extremity Strength), an International, Multicenter, Randomized Clinical Trial (Preprint)
Authors: Heels-Ansdell Diane , Kelly Laurel , O'Grady Heather K , Farley Christopher , Reid Julie C , Berney Sue , Pastva Amy M , Burns Karen EA , D'Aragon Frédérick , Herridge Margaret	S , Seely Andrew , Rudkowski Jill , Rochwerg Bram , Fox-Robichaud Alison , Ball Ian , Lamontagne Francois , Duan Erick H , Tsang Jennifer , Archambault Patrick M , Verceles Avelino C , Muscedere John , Mehta Sangeeta , English Shane W , Karachi Tim , Serri Karim , Reeve Brenda , Thabane Lehana , Cook Deborah , Kho Michelle E
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

Survivors of critical illness are at risk of developing physical dysfunction following intensive care unit (ICU) discharge. ICU-based rehabilitation interventions, such as early in-bed cycle ergometry, may improve patients’ short-term physical function.

OBJECTIVE

Before unblinding and trial database lock, we describe a prespecified statistical analysis plan (SAP) for the CYCLE (Critical Care Cycling to Improve Lower Extremity Strength) randomized controlled trial (RCT).

METHODS

CYCLE is a 360-patient, international, multicenter, open-label, parallel-group RCT (1:1 ratio) with blinded primary outcome assessment at 3 days post-ICU discharge. The principal investigator and statisticians of CYCLE prepared this SAP with approval from the steering committee and coinvestigators. The SAP defines the primary and secondary outcomes (including adverse events) and describes the planned primary, secondary, and subgroup analyses. The primary outcome of the CYCLE trial is the Physical Function Intensive Care Unit Test-scored (PFIT-s) at 3 days post-ICU discharge. The PFIT-s is a reliable and valid performance-based measure. We plan to use a frequentist statistical framework for all analyses. We will conduct a linear regression to evaluate the primary outcome, incorporating randomization as an independent variable and adjusting for age (≥65 years versus <65 years) and center. The regression results will be reported as mean differences in PFIT-s scores with corresponding 95% CIs and P values. We consider a 1-point difference in PFIT-s score to be clinically important. Additionally, we plan to conduct 3 subgroup analyses: age (≥65 years versus <65 years), frailty (Baseline Clinical Frailty Scale ≥5 versus <5), and sex (male versus female).

RESULTS

CYCLE was funded in 2017, and enrollment was completed in May 2023. Data analyses are complete, and the first results were submitted for publication in 2024.

CONCLUSIONS

We developed and present an SAP for the CYCLE RCT and will adhere to it for all analyses. This study will add to the growing body of evidence evaluating the efficacy and safety of ICU-based rehabilitation interventions.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03471247; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03471247 and NCT02377830; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02377830

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT

RR1-10.2196/54451