bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wavelength dispersive X–ray fluorescence spectrometry as a tool for trace element determination in Pistacia vera L. leaves and soils
Authors: Nedjimi Bouzid
Published: January 2024

Pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) is known as important nut crop in the world with high nutritional and commercial relevance. In the present study, the concentrations of selected major and trace elements (Br, Ca, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, P, Sr, and Zn) in P. vera samples as well as theirs ambient soils from two geographical Algerian sites (Djelfa and Laghouat districts) were measured. The analytical measurements were performed by means of a wavelength dispersive X–ray fluorescence spectrometer (WDXRF). Results showed that highest contents of Br, Ca, Fe, and Mg were reported in samples collected from Sidi Makhlouf (Laghouat) orchard. However, Cu concentration is higher in P. vera from Ain El Ibel (Djelfa) province. For the remaining elements namely K, Mn, P, Sr and Zn, the values are comparable between both provinces. The maximum soil contents of Cu, K, and Mn were found in Sidi Makhlouf grove. However, the highest amount of Br was detected in soil samples collected from Ain Ibel orchard. No significant difference for Ca, Fe, Mg, P, Sr, and Zn concentrations was found between both soil orchards. These data must be taken into account during fertilization of pistachio orchards, in order to prevent nutritional disorders and to enhance productivity and kernel quality.
Phthalate exposure and blood pressure in U.S. children aged 8–17 years (NHANES 2013–2018)
Authors: Cheng Tan , Lou Chengcheng , Jing Xiaoping , Ding Sirui , Hong Haifa , Ding Guodong , Shen Li
Published: January 2024

Background
Current evidence from epidemiologic studies suggested that phthalate metabolites might be associated with BP changes. However, the special relationship between phthalate metabolites and BP changes in children has not been clearly elucidated in existing researches.
Objectives
We investigated the links between phthalate metabolites and various BP parameters, including systolic/diastolic BP, mean arterial pressure (MAP), and the presence of hypertension.
Methods
The population sample consisted of 1,036 children aged 8 to 17 years from the 2013–2018 NHANES in the United States. High performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry was used to measure urinary concentrations of 19 phthalate metabolites. Systolic/diastolic BP were derived from the average of three valid measurements, and MAP was calculated as (systolic BP + 2 × diastolic BP)/3. Hypertension was defined as mean systolic BP and/or diastolic BP that was ≥ 95th percentile for the reference gender, age, and height. Linear regression, logistic regression, and weighted quantile sum (WQS) regression models were employed to assess the associations between phthalate exposure and systolic/diastolic BP, MAP, and hypertension.
Results
Ten of 19 phthalate metabolites including MCNP, MCOP, MECPP, MBP, MCPP, MEP, MEHHP, MiBP, MEOHP, and MBzP had detection frequencies > 85% with samples more than 1,000. MCNP, MCOP, MECPP, MBP, MCPP, MEHHP, MiBP, MEOHP, and MBzP were generally negatively associated with systolic/diastolic BP and MAP, but not associated with risk of hypertension. These associations were not modified by age (8–12 and 13–17 years) or sex (boys and girls). The above-mentioned associations were further confirmed by the application of the WQS analysis, and MCOP was identified as the chemical with the highest weight.
Conclusion
Phthalate metabolites were associated with modest reductions in systolic/diastolic BP, and MAP in children, while appeared not protective factors for hypertension. Given the inconsistent results among existing studies, our findings should be confirmed by other cohort studies.
Arabic Plagiarism Detection Based on Sentence Similarity
Authors: Ibrahim Heba Hashem , Mohamed Mamdouh Farouk , Hussein Khaled Fathy
Published: January 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Acoustic bellows type round window transducer for middle-ear implants
Authors: Shin Dong Ho , Lee Kyu-Yup , Seong Ki Woong
Published: January 2024

This study describes the development of output devices for round window middle-ear implants (RW-MEIs). To improve the problems of output devices that directly apply sound pressure to RW, acoustic bellows type RW transducer (ABRT) was implemented by combining a small bellows, an acoustic tube, and a balanced armature driver (BA). The output characteristics of the proposed ABRT were confirmed through bench-tested and distortion measurement. To compare the vibration transmission characteristics of ABRT with sound pressure stimulation devices, a cadaveric experiment was performed using 4 human temporal bones. As a result of the comparison, unlike the sound pressure stimulation device, ABRT delivered vibration consistently without reducing the sound pressure level due to leakage. Therefore, ABRT can be evaluated as a more stable and suitable output device for RW-MEIs than a sound pressure stimulation device. These results are expected to overcome the limitations of sound pressure stimulation devices and are expected to contribute to new technical solutions in the field of RW-MEIs.
Evaluation of drought-tolerant varieties based on root system architecture in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Guo Congcong , Zhu Lingxiao , Sun Hongchun , Han Qiucheng , Wang Shijie , Zhu Jijie , Zhang Yongjiang , Zhang Ke , Bai Zhiying , Li Anchang , Liu Liantao , Li Cundong
Published: January 2024

Background:Root system architecture (RSA) exhibits significant genetic variability and is closely associated with drought tolerance. However, the evaluation of drought-tolerant cotton varieties based on RSA in the field conditions is still unclear.Results:So, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of drought tolerance based on physiological and morphological traits (i.e., aboveground and RSA, and yield) within a rain-out shelter, with two water treatments: well-watered (75 ± 5% soil relative water content) and drought stress (50 ± 5% soil relative water content). The results showed that principal component analysis identified six principal components, including highlighting the importance of root traits and canopy parameters in influencing drought tolerance. Moreover, the systematic cluster analysis were used to classify 80 varieties into 5 categories, including drought-tolerant varieties, weak drought-tolerant varieties, intermediate varieties, and weak drought-sensitive varieties, drought-sensitive varieties. Further validation of the drought tolerance index showed that the yield drought tolerance index and biomass drought tolerance index of the drought-tolerant varieties were 8.97 and 5.05 times higher than those of the drought-sensitive varieties, respectively.Conclusions:The RSA of drought-tolerant varieties was characterised by a significant increase in average length-all lateral roots, a significant decrease in average lateral root emergence angle and a moderate root/shoot ratio. In contrast, the drought-sensitive varieties showed a significant decrease in average length-all lateral roots and a significant increase in both average lateral root emergence angle and root/shoot ratio. It is therefore more comprehensive and accurate to assess field crop drought tolerance by considering root performance.
Optimal Configuration of energy Storage in New Energy Stations Considering Battery Life Cycle
Authors: Tian Chunsun , Liu Mingyang , Zhang Di , Liu Fangbing , Gao Ze
Published: January 2024

In order to analyze the energy storage benefits and their impact on new energy stations throughout their entire life cycle, a new energy station energy storage optimization method considering the power supply life cycle is proposed. Firstly, based on the operational characteristics of energy storage in new energy stations, a revenue model and a cost model are established for the energy storage system; Secondly, by taking the constraints of each energy output in the new energy station into account, with the goal of maximizing investment return, an objective function is established by considering the entire life cycle of the battery, and the improved Grey wolf optimization algorithm is used to solve the objective function; Finally, the configuration of 10MW/20MWh energy storage is used as an example to verify the proposed method. The results show that the optimized new energy station has significantly improved the phenomenon of wind and light abandonment, and the net income of energy storage has been increased.
Radiomic signatures for the non-invasive prediction of EGFR mutation status in brain metastases of lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Yu Liheng , Sun Linlin , Zhu Li , Chen Weiqiang , Luan Shihai , Li Qiang , He Pengbo , Yu Zekuan
Published: January 2024

The epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation exists in approximately 50% of patients with lung adenocarcinoma and is crucial for predicting response to targeted therapies. An increasing number of patients with lung adenocarcinoma have brain metastases (BMs) at diagnosis or later develop BMs. The study aimed to establish a non-invasive radiomics model for distinguishing EGFR mutation status in BMs and investigating the predictive performance of four MR sequences. 122 patients diagnosed with BMs of lung adenocarcinoma (57 mutant EGFR patients and 65 wild-type EGFR patients) were enrolled in the study. 960 features were extracted from contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging (CE-T1WI), fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR), Diffusion Weighted Imaging (DWI), and contrast-enhanced susceptibility-weighted imaging (CE-SWI) sequences separately. 27 key radiomics features were selected after feature selection. The prediction performance of different machine learning models was evaluated and the model of four MR sequences was constructed using the SVM classifier. Accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and AUC were used to evaluate our model performance. Our CE-T1WI + FLAIR + DWI + CE-SWI sequence model achieved the best performance with ACC reaching 0.9167, AUC reaching 0.9720, Sensitivity reaching 0.9167, and Specificity reaching 0.9015. It was significantly higher than the CE-T1WI model (ACC:0.7917, AUC:0.8631), CE-T1WI + FLAIR model (ACC:0.9167, AUC:0.9231) and CE-T1WI + FLAIR + DWI model (ACC:0.8333, AUC:0.9371) in the testing set. Our CE-T1WI + FLAIR + DWI + CE-SWI model can serve as an effective tool to predict the EGFR mutation status in BMs of lung adenocarcinoma and be conducive to guiding patient treatment strategies.
Blue energy harvesting and divalent ions: Capacitive Reverse Electrodialysis cell with a single membrane opens a gateway to new applications
Authors: WU Nan , Brahmi Youcef , Levant Michael , Tregouet Corentin , Colin Annie
Published: January 2024

A considerable disparity persists between lab-scale studies and the industrial application in the study of Reverse Electrodialysis (RED). A notable distinction arises in the choice of feed solutions. While earlier researches report the power density performances of RED systems fed by ideal artificial solutions predominantly composed of monovalent ions such as NaCl or KCl, real-world applications necessitate the use of complex solutions featuring a mix of multivalent ions. Prior investigations indicate a pronounced decline in electrical potential and power density in RED systems when operated with solution mixed with divalent ions. This study specifically explores the impact of divalent ion mixing on capacitive RED systems. Our findings reveal a membrane voltage drop attributable to the uphill effect, mirroring outcomes observed in similar studies. However, the consistent contribution of capacitive electrodes, constituting 50 % of the total voltage, remains unaltered. During the operational cycle involving periodic water chamber switches, the accumulation of cations within the ion exchange membrane remains minimal. Consequently, the decrease in voltage and the associated decline in power density stemming from divalent ion mixing are comparatively modest, suggesting a minor ion trapping and fouling problem in this case. Furthermore, a comprehensive examination of the system's long-term performance spanning 500 minutes affirms the sustained stability of its energy efficiency. Our findings have important implications on the valorization of salinity gradients in industrial operations.
Denoising autoencoder-based bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing data analyses reveal a comorbidity relationship between Alzheimer’s disease and lung cancer
Authors: Li Jialin , Tang Mingbo , Gao Xinliang , Wang Chi , Liu Wei , Tian Suyan
Published: January 2024

Numerous investigators have studied the correlation between Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and lung cancer (LC), yet a precise comprehension of their interconnection remains elusive. Prior studies have demonstrated the efficacy of certain targeted therapies for controlling ferroptosis in treating AD and LC. Moreover, ferroptosis plays a role in immune regulation. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the association between AD and LC in terms of ferroptosis and particularly its relevance to immune function. Firstly, bulk RNA sequencing data of AD and LC patients were employed to construct a denoising autoencoder (DAE) model that extracted a representation of ferroptosis-related genes. The representation scores were then utilized to conduct an in-depth investigation of the relationship between the two diseases. Furthermore, as immune function plays a pivotal role in AD and LC, we assessed the association of immune function between two diseases by isolating immune-related from Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data and constructing a DAE model. Using a DAE model based on bulk RNA and scRNA-seq data, the comorbidity relationship between AD and LC in the context of ferroptosis was identified. Furthermore, we found that immune cells affected by ferroptosis might play an important role in the pathogenesis of this comorbidity.
The use of different types of organic methods and waste materials for the improvement of natural asphalt as roofing mastic and pavement asphalt
Authors: Muslim Rasim Farraj , Ahmed Thamer Yousif , Eyada Saadoon Obaid , Abd-Alghafour N. M.
Published: January 2024

Hit city has the largest deposit of Natural Asphalt NA in Iraq. Different attempts were made to enhance the properties of NA to be used for different purposes. In this study, two types of NAs and three types of wastes were used to study how adding wastes to NA can effect on the rheological properties of the blends. Penetration, softening point and rotational viscosity tests were conducted. The results improved that adding wastes to NA has a significant effect on the rheological properties of NA by increasing the stiffness of NA. New roofing mastic can be produced by mixing 12–16% of wastes with NA. Adding 40% of hard NA to soft NA can produce new type of NA that can be used for road pavement.
Modification of ionic wood for enhanced phase change performance
Authors: Fu Yuan , Wang Huanbo , Liu Yue , Li Jinpeng , Sun Xianzu , Liu Tian
Published: January 2024

Wood with a porous structure is the best carrier for phase change energy storage materials, which can effectively prevent material leakage during thermal cycling and ensure its shaping effect. In this work, the delignified veneer oxidized with TEMPO was used as a thermal energy storage system. Then, it was immersed in a solution of ethanol as the solvent, polyethylene glycol (PEG), and calcium chloride as the solutes, obtaining thermal energy storage ionic wood (DTW-TES). The results showed that the phase change material PEG2000-CaCl2 was impregnated into the pore structure of wood; calcium ions were effectively combined with -COOH in modified wood for intermediate bonds, thus forming white complex crystals with PEG2000. As a result, PEG2000-CaCl2 was successfully adsorbed into wood pores. The maximum absorption rate and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test results showed that TEMPO-oxidized delignified poplar had a maximum absorption rate of 99% for PEG2000-CaCl2. Additionally, TEMPO-oxidized delignified poplar exhibited good phase transition performance and a suitable phase transition temperature of 23.2oC. The latent heat of phase transition was 84.8 J/g. Thus, the novel DTW-TES displayed a high potential application in the field of thermal energy storage and temperature regulation.
A case report of Peripartum Cardiomyopathy Complicated with Myocardial Infarction and Heart Failure in a Teaching Hospital Sri Lanka
Authors: Madhusanka R.B.D , Edirisinghe E.S.Y
Published: January 2024

Introduction: PPCM define as the onset of heart failure within the last month of pregnancy or up to the first 5 months postpartum in absence of an identifiable cause. It presents as a dilated cardiomyopathy, is common in obese, multiparous women over 30 years old, and is associated with pre-eclampsia. Nearly half of the patients will recover to normal function within 5months but in some cases, it can cause progressive heart failure and sudden death. In this report, we describe a case of heart failure following peripartum cardiomyopathy.
Case Presentation: A 48-year-old Sri Lankan lady was admitted to our hospital with a history of two episodes of tightening type central chest pain, gradual onset of shortness of breath, and leg oedema. She was diagnosed with hypertension and peripartum cardiomyopathy 17 years back. At the same time, she was found to have non-ST elevated myocardial infarction and she was managed in ICU.
Conclusion: This case confirms that peripartum cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure
Enriching Poly(lactic acid) Properties: Impact of Chitosan Nanoparticles and Jojoba Oil on Physico-chemical Characteristics and Isothermal Crystallization Behavior
Authors: Elsawy Moataz A. , Ali E. S. , Chritiansen Jesper Claville , Saad Gamal. R.
Published: January 2024

Poly(lactic acid), PLA, loaded with chitosan nanoparticles, CsNP, (3.0%, w/w) and jojoba oil, JO, (3.0%, w/w), as a plasticizer, were prepared by twin screw extrusion. The manufactured PLA/CsNP, PLA/JO and PLA/CsNP/JO compounds were characterized by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravemetric analysis (TG), tensile testing, Izod impact test and wide angle X-ray diffraction (WAXD). The PLA/CsNP, PLA/JO and PLA/CsNP/JO compounds exhibited improved elongation and impact strength compared with neat PLA. The presence of JO slightly improved the thermal stability of PLA, while CsNP decreased the thermal stability of the PLA. The incorporation of CNPs and JO accelerated the cold crystallization rate of PLA, which is related to a nucleation effect of the CsNP and increase of the chain mobility as a plasticization effect of the JO. No modification in crystalline structure of PLA was observed as a result of the presence of the CsNP and the JO. Avrami equation was employed to describe the cold and melt isothermal crystallization process of neat PLA and PLA/CNP composite with and without JO. The combination additives of CsNP and JO accelerated the crystallization rate in a less extent than CsNP or JO alone.
An Ecoregion Approach Characterizing Chloride Concentrations in New York State Flowing and Ponded Waters
Authors: Stoll Charles G. , Duffy Brian , Onion Alene , Smith Alexander , Streeter Meredith , Smith Zachary
Published: January 2024

In the United States, chloride (Cl) concentrations in surface waters are increasing nationally. Analysis of water quality trends in New York State (NYS) surface waters demonstrated Cl concentrations are increasing in some areas. Within the literature, considerable focus has been given to understanding the drivers and cumulative effects of Cl concentrations in the water column, but more work is needed to understand spatial patterns and the variability of Cl in the aquatic environment. To evaluate the gradient of Cl concentrations in surface waters across NYS, 13,690 discrete samples, collected between 2001 and 2019, from 1,661 unique locations were aggregated and compared among Level III United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) Ecoregions and classified into novel, regionally distinct NYS Cl Ecoregions (ClE). Median Cl concentrations in the ClE correlated with land cover patterns. Maximum Cl concentration for each sampled location were compared against NYS’s Health (Water Source) water quality standard (WQS) of 250 mg/L and USEPA’s aquatic (chronic) 230 mg/L criteria. The frequency of flowing and ponded water sampling locations in NYS with a concentration above the NYS WQS (0–3%) or USEPA criteria (1–4%) are low but vary by ClE (0–11%). The characterization of statewide condition represented here provides needed context to water quality managers about the relative condition of their waters and potential for Cl impacts. The ClE approach provides a potential framework for development and implementation of future Cl management strategies based on regional condition enabling a balanced approach between restoration of water quality and protection priorities.
Nicotine exposure increases PIK3CA, AKT1, HIF-1α, GLUT1, CA9 and VEGF expression in oral potentially malignant lesions
Authors: Santos Joaquim Gasparini dos , Oliveira Mayara Mota , Otuyama Leonardo Jun , Mendes Suzanny Oliveira , Borçoi Aline Ribeiro , Moreno Ivana Alece Arantes , Peterle Gabriela Tonini , Maia Lucas Lima , Costa Adriana Fraga , Archanjo Anderson Barros , Nunes Fabio Daumas , Silva Adriana Madeira Alvares
Published: January 2024

Background:
Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a highly aggressive malignancy often arising from oral potentially malignant lesions (OPMD). Nicotine triggers pathways associated with tumor progression, angiogenesis, and metastasis, notably PI3K/AKT and HIF-1. This study investigated the impact of nicotine on cell viability, migration, and gene expression (PIK3CA, AKT1, HIF-1α, GLUT1, CA9 and VEGF) in DOK and SCC9 cell lines.
Methods and Results:
DOK and SCC9 cell lines, were cultured in standard media and conditions, exposed to different nicotine concentrations (control, 1 µM, and 10 µM) for 8 and 24 hours. Cell viability assay, wound healing scratch assay cell, RNA extraction and RT-qPCR analysis of target genes were performed. Nicotine increased DOK cell migration and mRNA expression of PIK3CA, AKT1, HIF-1α, GLUT1, CA9, and VEGF after 8-hour exposure to 10 µM nicotine.
Conclusions
Our results suggest a relationship between nicotine exposure and the increased expression of genes that have a strict association with metabolites, survival, proliferation and inhibition of apoptosis in DOK, where the expression patterns were well-defined within 8 hours and in a dose-dependent manner. Further studies are warranted to comprehend nicotine's intricate mechanisms impacting oral cancer progression.
Structural and Bactericidal Properties of Cu-TiO2 Biocides Incorporated in Polypropylene
Authors: Govindasamy G Ambarasan , Sreekan Srimala , Saharudin Khairul Arifah , Poliah Ramarao , Ong Ming Thong , T Priscilla J. , Sahgal G. , Tan Aik Aun
Published: January 2024

Polymer-based appliances are vulnerable to bacterial infections and poses a significant concern in biomedical field. Both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria have been identified as potential sources of infectious diseases, necessitating a comprehensive exploration of innovative materials and strategies to mitigate this issue. Accordingly, this work targeted to determine the effect of 1% and 7% Cu-TiO2 on the antibacterial activity of PP composite against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) and Escherichia coli (E. coli). In this work, oval-shaped Cu-TiO2 were fabricated by a hydrothermal method and then incorporated into the PP by internal mixing. Subsequently XRD, TEM, FESEM, and EDS were used to characterize the Cu-TiO2-PP composite. The structural properties of PP composite were greatly altered with dispersion of Cu-TiO2. Antibacterial tests demonstrated that the bactericidal efficiency of Cu-TiO2-PP composite on microorganisms greatly improved with metal-ionic systems compared with pure PP. This work throws some new insight in addressing catheter-related blood-stream infection.
Factors Influencing Research Productivity among Syrian Medical Professionals amidst Conflict: a Case-Control Study
Authors: Hanafi Ibrahem , Kheder Kheder , Sabouni Rami , Rahmeh Ahmad Rami , Alsalkini Marah , Hanafi Mouaz , Naeem Ahmad , Alahdab Fares
Published: January 2024

Background:
While medical research productivity is rapidly accelerating in the world generally, it remains poor in many third-world countries due to many factors including the lack of training and the brain drain of healthcare professionals. Syria had been showing a slow upward trend until the war broke out and severely hindered academic growth and productivity. A continued lack of data on the scale of, and factors behind, this phenomenon needs to be addressed to better understand the current academic productivity and inform educational policies and resource allocation. Additionally, one of the challenges is the small sample sizes of previous cross-sectional studies that evaluated the perspectives of Syrian academics to disentangle the factors that paved the way for these published healthcare workers to pursue research. Therefore, we present a case-control study that targeted this specific population and compared its characteristics and self-reported perceptions to matching controls without previous research involvement.
Methods:
We first identified Syrian early-career published authors in the healthcare field through an extensive search of PubMed and Google scholar. The questionnaire was subsequently publicly published to recruit matching controls: unpublished researchers and participants with no prior research contributions. The questionnaire covered participants’ research contributions, alongside their self-assessed knowledge, attitudes, and barriers towards research.
Results:
Six-hundred-sixteen participants were recruited. Their knowledge, attitudes, and perceived barriers explained 46% and 34% of the variability in research involvement and publication, respectively (P < 0.001). Getting involved in and publishing research studies associated with higher research-related knowledge and attitudes (P < 0.001). Respondents’ assessment of research-related barriers and their academic scores did not differ between cases and controls. Superior research-related knowledge and attitudes were associated with male gender, higher English competency, and better internet connectivity. Meanwhile, extracurricular training and mentors’ support were associated with more positive research-related attitudes and less perceived barriers.
Conclusions:
Research productivity of early-career medical professionals in Syria exhibits a positive correlation with their knowledge and favorable attitudes towards medical research. Noteworthy, demographic variations are linked to disparities in research-related knowledge and motivation. In conclusion, these results suggest a potential avenue for enhancement through concentrated efforts on improving extracurricular training interventions and mentors’ support.
Conservative treatment using platelet-rich plasma for acute anterior cruciate ligament injuries in highly active patients
Authors: Hada Shinnosuke , Hada Masao , Yoshida Keiichi , Kaneko Haruka , Saita Yoshitomo , Kubota Mitsuaki , Ishijima Muneaki
Published: January 2024

Background
The recommended treatment for anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries in active, sports-oriented patients is reconstructive surgery in order to regain stability and prevent secondary meniscal injuries. However, ACL reconstruction requires a long recovery period and poses issues, such as decreased muscle strength due to tendon harvesting and postoperative osteoarthritis (OA) progression, thereby raising significant expectations for the advancement of conservative treatments. Recent studies have shown that platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, which utilizes the tissue repair-promoting property of platelets, is effective for ACL injuries. We conducted a retrospective survey of ligament repair status and return-to-sport condition in patients with ACL injury who underwent conservative treatment using PRP.
Methods
We administered PRP therapy within 6 weeks after ACL injury in patients who expressed the desire for an early return to sports through conservative care. After the treatment, patients wore a simple brace that limited deep flexion but placed no restrictions on weight bearing. Four months was the standard goal established for returning to pre-injury condition, and, depending on the target level, timing, and knee condition, we adjusted the additional PRP treatments and rehabilitation approach, gradually authorizing the patients’ return to sport. We assessed the ligament repair status by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) just before the full return to sports.
Results
The average patient age was 32.7 years and the average treatment was 2.8 PRP sessions. MRI evaluations confirmed that ligament continuity was regained in all cases. All the patients returned to their pre-injury level (Tegner Activity Scale 7.0) in an average of 139.5 days, but there was one instance of re-rupture following the return to sports.
Conclusion
All patients with ACL injury who underwent PRP therapy regained ligament continuity and returned to sport successfully with only one case of re-rupture.
RETRACTED: Secured learning through electronic health records using Hybrid Fully Homomorphic Encryption
Authors: Munjal Kundan , Bhatia Rekha , Verma Shilpa
Published: January 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A Performance Evaluation of Seismic Retrofit of Existing Greece Building
Authors: Yousif Mohanad Salsal , Pragalath D. C. Haran
Published: January 2024

A seismic retrofit entails modifying existing structures in order to improve the system's performance or to repair or strengthen its components to reach the desired performance. In order to arrive at an appropriate retrofitting scheme, the structure's vulnerability and a detailed seismic evaluation are essential, where seismic fragility curves are one of the tools for seismic evaluation. In this study, a 5-storey typical existing Greek building is selected which was designed according to Greek Code. The selected buildings are modelled for nonlinear analysis with and without shear walls. Seismic records are selected, scaled and modified according to Greek Response spectrum. Dynamic time-history analysis is performed. Inter-story drift is considered as damage parameter and fragility curves are developed for various performance levels. This holistic approach contributes to the broader understanding of seismic retrofitting methodologies and their applicability to existing structures, particularly those designed under specific regional codes such as the Greek Code. The result shows that there are significant improvements after retrofitting the building using shear walls.
Effects of Cadmium Stress on the Growth and Physiological Characteristics of Sweet Potato in the Whole Growth Period
Authors: Ran Tengfei , Cao Guofan , Xiao LiLi , Li Yongpeng , xia Ru , Zhao Xueting , Qin Yun , Wu Peng , Tian Shanjun
Published: January 2024

This study evaluated the responses of sweet potatoes to Cd stress through pot experiments, thus laying a theoretical foundation for their comprehensive utilization in Cd-polluted cultivated land. Four treatments were designed in the experiments, i.e., CK and three Cd stress treatments (T1, T2, and T3) with Cd concentrations of 3, 30, and 150 mg/kg, respectively. Through analyzing the individual plant growth, photosynthesis, antioxidant capacity, carbohydrate Cd accumulation distribution, and other indicators of sweet potato at different growth periods, the characteristics of sweet potato carbon metabolism in response to Cd stress during the whole growth period were explored. The results showed that T2 and T3 treatments inhibited the vine length, leaf area, stem diameter, and tuberous root growth of sweet potato, while T3 treatment significantly increased the number of sweet potato branches. Under Cd stress, the synthesis of chlorophyll in sweet potato was significantly inhibited, while the activity of the Rubisco enzyme was significantly reduced. As the Cd concentration increased, the function of PS II was also affected. The soluble sugar content showed no significant change in low Cd concentration treatments but decreased significantly under high Cd concentrations; the tuberous root starch content decreased significantly with the increase in Cd concentration. During the whole growth period, the activities of catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) increased significantly in T2 and T3 treatments, while the SOD activity in T1 treatment was significantly lower than that of CK. With the increase in Cd concentration, the Cd contents of various sweet potato organs exhibited increasing trends. The absorbing roots had the highest bioconcentration factor, the tuberous roots had a lower bioconcentration factor and Cd accumulation, and the transfer factor from stem to petiole was the highest. These results showed that sweet potatoes had a high Cd tolerance and a certain restoration potential for Cd-contaminated cultivated land.
Pheochromocytoma related myocardial injury mimic as myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries: a case report
Authors: Zhong Wenhao , Tong Huiyu , Zheng Sulin , Li Wensheng , Mai Linlin , Huang Anqing , Hu Yunzhao , Lu Jianhua , Huang Yuli
Published: January 2024

Background
The symptoms due to the hypersecretion of catecholamines in pheochromocytoma can mimic more than 30 medical disorders. Identification of atypical symptoms related to pheochromocytoma is a challenge for clinicians. In the current case, we report a patient presented with a myocardial injury mimicked myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), which is rare in pheochromocytoma.
Case presentation:
A 72-year-old male was admitted to the emergency department with a chief complaint of recurrent chest pain, and his 12-leads ECG showed a sinus rhythm with V1-V4 large upright peaked T-wave. The level of cardiac troponin was elevated. Coronary angiography found no evidence of obstructive coronary arteries. Computed tomographic scan, serum normetanephrine, norepinephrine, and metanephrines supported the diagnosis of pheochromocytoma, which was finally documented by histopathology.
Conclusions
When a patient of MINOCA was proposed, pheochromocytomas should not be ignored in the differential diagnosis.
Optimizing Cardiovascular Disease Prediction: Harnessing Random Forest Algorithm with Advanced Feature Selection
Authors: B Kalaivani , A Ranichitra
Published: January 2024

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) stand as prevalent and severe health concerns, significantly impacting individuals. The potential for early diagnosis to prevent or relieve CVDs, thereby reducing mortality rates, underscores its critical role. In this effort, adopting machine learning models to identify risk factors emerges as a promising strategy. Additionally, feature selection methods prove invaluable in identifying crucial attributes, contributing to the reduction of diagnostic expenditures. The analysis in this work was consolidated and improved by using a dataset from Cleveland, Long Beach, VA, Switzerland, Hungarian, and Stat log. In our proposed Method, a hybrid Differential Entropy-based information gain and LASSO algorithm are employed for feature selection. The proposed hybrid model, when combined with machine learning techniques like the Random Forest approach, minimizes data dimensions, improve classification performance, and enhances the efficiency of identifying and training feature sets. Finally, the proposed model produces enhanced performance metrics, encompassing accuracy, precision, and recall.
Finite Key Analysis for Discrete Phase Randomized BB84 Protocol
Authors: Jin Xiao-Hang , Yin Zhen-Qiang , Wang Shuang , Chen Wei , Guo Guang-Can , Han Zheng-Fu
Published: January 2024

Quantum key distribution (QKD) is a secure communication method that relies on the inherent randomness of quantum mechanics to ensure information-theoretic security. The first and most widely used QKD protocol is BB84, and the proof of BB84's security is vital. The Discrete Phase Randomized BB84 protocol is a variant of the decoy BB84 protocol. It has been proven to be promising in the development of high-speed QKD systems. However, it still lacks an analysis with a finite number of pulses. This paper presents a comprehensive security analysis of the discrete phase BB84 protocol, using two different methods under different conditions. The analysis involves simulations and optimizations to determine the optimal parameter settings. It is confirmed that for typical scenarios, if the number of discrete phases exceeds 30, one can calculate the key rate by assuming that a continuous phase randomization process was in operation. On the other hand, for a relatively smaller number of discrete values, we have developed a numerical method to calculate the key rate. We have confirmed that its performance is reduced but still acceptable with a finite number of pulses.
Acoustic emission applied to stochastic modeling of microdamage in compact bone
Authors: Sanchez-Molina David , García-Vilana Silvia
Published: January 2024

Exploring the stochastic intricacies of bone microstructure is a promising way to make progress on the practical issue of bone fracture. This study investigates the fracture of human complete ribs subjected to bending and using Acoustic Emission (AE) for microfailure detection. As the strain increases, the number of AE signals per unit of time rises until, beyond a certain threshold, an avalanche of signals occurs, indicating the aggregation of numerous microfailures into a macroscopic fracture.
Since microfailures appear randomly throughout the bending test, and given the lack of a deterministic law and the random nature of microfailures during the bending test, we opted to develop a stochastic model to account for their occurrence within the irregular and random microstructure of the cortical bone. Notable discoveries encompass the significant correlation between adjusted parameters of the stochastic model and the total number of microfailures with anthropometric variables such as age and body mass index (BMI). The progression of microfailures with strain is significantly more pronounced with age and BMI, as measured by the rate of bone deterioration. In addition, the rate of microfailures is significantly impacted by BMI alone. It is also observed that the average energy of the identified AE events adheres to a precisely defined Pareto distribution for every specimen, with the principal exponent exhibiting a significant correlation with anthropometric variables.
From a mathematical standpoint, the model can be described as a double Cox stochastic and explosive (coxplosive process) model. This further provides insight into the reason why the ribs of older individuals are considerably less resilient than those of younger individuals, breaking under a considerably lower maximum strain εmax).
Decentralized Renewable Energy Integration in the Urban Energy Markets: A System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Rozhkov Anton
Published: January 2024

The ongoing transition in energy systems, driven by factors such as renewable energy adoption, data quality improvement, and grid decentralization, holds promise for addressing climate change and advancing environmental justice. This shift towards decentralized energy production, including prosumer engagement and microgrids, aims to reduce transmission losses and enhance grid resilience. Utilities are also adapting, transitioning to renewable sources, and integrating with existing grids. However, the policy and urban planning aspects of this transition have received limited attention. This research employs system dynamics modeling to explore various scenarios, from traditional utility-centered approaches to urban planning-driven customer choices, in achieving a climate-neutral energy system within 50 years. The study underscores the importance of comprehensive energy policies, socio-economic benefits, carbon reduction, and customer engagement. With highlighting potential solutions, it suggests avenues for future research to support the transition towards cleaner, more sustainable electricity solutions in regions like northern Illinois (USA).
Unveiling New Insights: Reinterpreting DES Mutation, p.Arg383His, through a Study of an Iranian Family with Isolated Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Implication for Phenotype‒Genotype Correlation Analysis
Authors: Kavousi Saeideh , Kamali Farzad , Rabbani Bahareh , Behmanesh Mehrdad , Mahdieh Nejat , Noruzinia Mehrdad
Published: January 2024

Background
Desmin, a crucial intermediate filament in muscle cells, maintains structural integrity in cardiac muscle and provides stability to striated muscle cells. Mutations in the DES gene lead to desminopathies, causing diverse cardiac and skeletal myopathies. We examine a new Iranian family with a highly penetrant p.Arg383His variant in the DES gene, resulting in severe hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) without skeletal phenotypes. Moreover, we discuss all reported disease-causing missense variants, examining their clinical manifestations across different domains.
Methods
We assessed demographic data, clinical characteristics, and genetic analyses of family members. Whole genome sequencing (WGS), in silico structural and functional predictions, was also used to investigate genetic entities. A comprehensive search was performed across various databases, including to identify all disease-causing missense variants within the DES gene.
Results
WGS identified a p.Arg383His variant in the DES gene in the Iranian family. Analyzing 119 disease-causing missense variants in desmin revealed limited correlation between variant location and phenotypes. A significant prevalence (36.9%) of conduction diseases was linked to variants in various domains. Heart failure was associated with variants in coil2B, while syncope occurred with variants in coil2B and the tail regions. Coil1B variants showed no connection with end-stage cardiac phenotypes. Different domains showed varying associations with specific clinical outcomes, such as spine ankylosis in the tail domain and dysphonia in the desmin head domain.
Conclusion
The present study reports an Iranian family exhibiting severe HCM due to a novel DES gene variant, lacking skeletal myopathy phenotypes. Examining all missense variants highlighted clinical heterogeneity and complex inheritance patterns among carriers. In this context, genetic analysis is a valuable diagnostic tool for effectively managing affected patients, identifying carriers, and facilitating future family planning decisions.
Prevalence of Birt-Hogg-Dube Syndrome and Kidney Cancer Surveillance in Tasmania, Australia
Authors: Garza Denisse , Millward Michael , Cuthbertson Laura , Burke Jo , Jose Matthew , Wallis Mathew
Published: January 2024

Birt-Hogg Dubé Syndrome (BHD) is a rare autosomal dominant condition characterised by a predisposition to benign skin lesions, pulmonary cysts, spontaneous pneumothorax and kidney cancer. An audit of the Tasmanian Clinical Genetics Service database was conducted to identify individuals with molecularly confirmed BHD. To ensure Tasmanians with BHD would be able to meet contemporary national screening guidelines, individuals diagnosed with BHD seen by the Tasmanian Clinical Genetics Service between 2010 and 2021 were invited to complete a survey regarding screening practices. We identified 37 individuals (23 women and 14 males, mean age 62 years old) with molecularly confirmed BHD, giving an estimated population prevalence in 2021 of 7 per 100,000. The majority (80%) lived in inner-regional locations with up to a one-hour travel time to medical imaging facilities. Of those identified, 14 (37%) completed the screening survey, with 8 (57%) reporting at least one screening test for kidney cancer since diagnosis; only 4 (28%) met current guidelines on screening frequency. Our findings showed that Tasmania had an unexpectedly high population prevalence of BHD yet screening for kidney cancer was suboptimal. This is the first study that demonstrates BHD is more prevalent in Tasmania compared to the global average and highlights the need for improved access and education on cancer surveillance.
RETRACTED: Named Entity Detection and Classification for Afaan Oromoo Text based on Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers
Authors: LEMU SORESSA BEYENE
Published: January 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
How to develop accessible Information Systems: an experimental study in tourism and proposal of a roadmap to support the development of accessible solutions
Authors: Teixeira Pedro , Teixeira Leonor , Eusébio Celeste
Published: January 2024

The right to tourism has become a crucial aspect of society. In that sense, through more accessible tourism, it is possible to improve travel conditions for people with disabilities (PwD). Nonetheless, barriers still exist, with the lack of information about accessibility conditions, as well as communication accessibility itself, representing some of the main obstacles. Information systems (IS) can help overcome these hurdles. However, it is verified, that methodologies to support the development of accessible IS are currently very scarce. Thus, this study intends to develop an accessible IS for accessible tourism and propose a roadmap to support the creation of accessible IS solutions. To obtain the intended accessible tourism solution, an action research methodology was followed, which involved adapting already established frameworks, that combine Agile development and user-centered design techniques. Adjustments were made to incorporate accessibility, taking into consideration the requirements of the accessible tourism market. The methodology resulted in a web-based IS named access@tour by action. This mobile solution is capable of improving information management within the accessible tourism market. From this experimental study, another emerging result was a proposal for a methodological roadmap. This roadmap helps better understand how to develop accessible IS, by demonstrating techniques for gathering accessibility requirements and validating them. The roadmap is adaptable and suitable for IS projects involving accessibility, regardless of the area. Both results provide a better perspective on how to integrate accessibility during the development of IS, possibly supporting future researchers in creating accessible solutions.
Prognostic significance and molecular mechanisms of LPCAT1 in lung squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shi Dayou , Zeng Lingzhi , Zha Yayun , Liu Anwen
Published: January 2024

LPCAT1 acts as an oncogene in a variety of cancers, but its effect on lung squamous cell carcinoma (LUSC) has not been reported. This study aimed to determine the prognostic value of LPCAT1 by bioinformatics analyses and to confirm its effect on LUSC cell functions by in vitroexperiments. The expression data and clinical information were obtained from the public database. The prognostic value of LPCAT1 was evaluated by Kaplan-Meier curves, nomogram analysis, and Cox regression analyses. The relationships of LPCAT1 and immune features were also estimated. Then, expressions of LPCAT1 and PTEN/Akt pathway in LUSC cell lines (NCI-H226 and NCI-H520) were detected by real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot. Cell viability, invasion, and apoptosis were evaluated by CCK-8 assay, Transwell assay, and flow cytometry, respectively. The bioinformatics analyses suggested that LPCAT1 is an independent prognostic risk factor of LUSC and has predictive potential. Meanwhile, LPCAT1 was significantly associated with immune cell infiltration and immune checkpoint gene expressions. Experiment data suggested that LPCAT1 can promote proliferation and invasion but inhibit apoptosis in LUSC cell lines. LPCAT1 can also significantly decrease the PTEN expression but increase the p-Akt expression in vitro. LPCAT1 indicates prognosis and correlates with immune features in LUSC. Experiment data indicated that LPCAT1 may promote proliferation and invasion but inhibit apoptosis of LUSC cell lines via the PTEN/Akt pathway.