bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accelerating Material Property Prediction using Generically Complete Isometry Invariants
Authors: Balasingham Jonathan , Zamaraev Viktor , Kurlin Vitaliy
Published: February 2024

Periodic material or crystal property prediction using machine learning has grown popular in recent years as it provides a computationally efficient replacement for classical simulation methods. A crucial first step for any of these algorithms is the representation used for a periodic crystal. While similar objects like molecules and proteins have a finite number of atoms and their representation can be built based upon a finite point cloud interpretation, periodic crystals are unbounded in size, making their representation more challenging. In the present work, we adapt the Pointwise Distance Distribution (PDD), a continuous and generically complete isometry invariant for periodic point sets, as a representation for our learning algorithm. The PDD distinguished all (more than 660 thousand) periodic crystals in the Cambridge Structural Database as purely periodic sets of points without atomic types. We develop a transformer model with a modified self-attention mechanism that combines PDD with compositional information via a spatial encoding method. This model is tested on the crystals of the Materials Project and Jarvis-DFT databases and shown to produce accuracy on par with state-of-the-art methods while being several times faster in both training and prediction time.
Influence of Frequency and Electric Field Strength on the Inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 During the Ohmic Heating Processing of Pomelo Juice
Authors: Doan Nhu Khue , Lai Quoc Dat , Le Thi Kim Phung , Le Nhat Tam
Published: February 2024

The influence of frequency, electric field strength, and non-thermal effects during ohmic heating (OH) on the inactivation of Escherichia coli O157:H7 in pomelo juice was investigated. Pomelo juice was inoculated with a specific density of E. coli O157:H7 and then treated with OH at frequencies ranging from 50 Hz to 20 kHz and electric field strengths of 20, 30, and 40 V/cm. The results showed that 60 and 500 Hz were more effective in inactivating E. coli than other frequencies. As electric field strength increased, inactivation also increased. Transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that the cell membrane of E. coli O157:H7 treated with OH underwent more pronounced changes than cells treated with conventional heating (CH). OH could inactivate E. coli O157:H7 at lower temperatures and in a shorter time than CH. These findings demonstrated the potential of OH for pasteurizing pomelo juice.
Impact of Generic Antiretroviral Drugs Introduction on Pharmaceutical Expenditure Patterns in the Netherlands: A Six-Year Retrospective Database Analysis from 2016 to 2022
Authors: Oosterhof Piter , Luin M Van , JW Vanhommerig , Brinkman K , DM Burger
Published: February 2024

Background
In the Netherlands, the annual expenditure on HIV care was 202 million euros in 2019, with about 70% allocated to antiretroviral therapy (ART). The introduction of generic antiretroviral medications (ARVs) in 2017 has offered potential cost-saving opportunities in healthcare. Understanding the financial implications of incorporating generic ART into the Dutch healthcare system is crucial to determine its impact.
Methods
We used data from the Foundation for Pharmaceutical Statistics (SFK), covering 98% of all community and outpatient clinic pharmacies across the Netherlands. This dataset contained medication information from 2016 to 2022. Medication data were classified using the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification with Defined Daily Dose (ATC/DDD) system. Cost analysis was based on Dutch drug prices (www.medicijnkosten.nl) for a specified period, and the data were processed using IBM SPSS.
Results
In the Netherland, people with HIV receiving ART increased from 20,072 to 24,573 between 2016-2022. HIV medication expenditure was 191 million euros in 2016, with generic medication at 6% DDDs. After an increase in 2017, a subsequent decrease in total HIV medication expenditure led to an overall cost of 180 million euros in 2022 (-9.4% compared to 2016). Simultaneously, the proportion of DDDs with a generic increased to 16-32% over the years. This could be linked to 97% compliance with generic substitutions for ARVs where a generic equivalent was available. Notably, the cost per patient per year has declined from €9,488 in 2016 to €7,352 in 2022 (-22.5% compared to 2016). Some of the potential cost-savings through generic substitution were not utilized because of the 20% increase in the use of novel branded single-tablet regimens (STRs).
Conclusions
Our analysis showed high compliance with generic substitution of ARVs in the Netherlands. The increased use of generic ARVs was accompanied by an almost 10% reduction in overall expenditure on ART costs despite a significant increase in the number of patients in care in the Netherlands during this period. A significant contributing factor to ART costs appears to be the high percentage of prescribed patented Single-Tablet Regimens (STRs). These findings underscore the complex dynamics of pharmaceutical expenditures in the Dutch healthcare system.
Astrocyte-derived apolipoprotein D is required for neuronal survival in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Jiang Hong , Dai Yingying , Bi Mingxia , Jiao Qian , Du Xixun , Yan Chunling
Published: February 2024

Apolipoprotein D (Apo D), a lipocalin transporter of small hydrophobic molecules, plays an important role in several neurodegenerative diseases. It was reported that increased immunostaining for Apo D of glial cells surrounding dopmainergic (DAergic) neurons was observed in the brains of Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. Although preliminary findings supported the role of Apo D in neuroprotection, its derivation and effects on the degeneration of nigral DAergic neurons are largely unknown. In the present study, we observed that Apo D levels released from astrocytes were increased in PD both in vivo and in vitro. When co-cultured with astrocytes, due to the increased release of astrocytic Apo D, the survival rate of primary cultured ventral midbrain (VM) neurons was significantly increased with 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridillium ion (MPP+) treatment. Increased levels of TAp73 and its phosphorylation at Tyr99 in astrocytes were required for the increased Apo D levels and its release. Conditional knockdown of TAp73 in the nigral astrocytes in vivo could aggravate the neurodegeneration in 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) -treated PD mice. Our findings reported, for the first time, astrocyte-derived Apo D was essential for DAergic neuronal survival in PD, which might provide new therapeutic targets for PD.
One-stage method for removing dyes under the action of underwater plasma and ferrites of cobalt, nickel, and titanium
Authors: Khlyustova Anna , Sirotkin Nikolay
Published: February 2024

Pulsed underwater direct current discharge is considered as a tool for a one-step process for ferrite synthesis and organic dye removal. The formation of cobalt, nickel and titanium ferrites during the discharge firing process was confirmed by methods of light scattering dynamics and X-ray phase analysis. The transformation of dye molecules (fluorescein, methylene green) during the combined action of plasma and ferrites was detected by UV absorption spectroscopy. The contributions of the separate action of plasma and ferrites to the process of dye removal from the solution were investigated. It was found that the synthesized structures have a high sorption capacity. It was found that fluorescein can be used as an indicator for the presence of nickel ferrites.
Emergency department staff opinion on newly introduced phlebotomy services in the department. A cross-sectional study incorporating reflexive thematic analysis.
Authors: Osman Abdi D. , Yeak Daryl , Ben-Meir Michael , Braitberg George
Published: February 2024

Introduction
The demand for Emergency Department (ED) services, both in terms of patient numbers and complexity has risen over the past decades. According to reports, there has been an increase in the ED patient presentation rate from 321 per 1000 to 339 per 1000 between 2017-18 and 2021-22. Consequently, new care models have been introduced to address this surge in demand, mitigate associated risks, and improve overall safety. Among these models is the concept of "front loading" clinical care, involving the initiation of interventions at the point of arrival. This study evaluates the impact of introducing phlebotomists at triage.
Method
We conducted a cross-sectional survey using purposive sampling and employed quantitative analysis, complemented by reflexive thematic analysis.
Results
The response rate for the questionnaire was 61% (n = 207) with good representation from all ED craft groups. Nearly all the staff (99.5%) reported being aware of the presence of phlebotomists in the ED, while only 57% of the staff reported working in triage (p = 0.048, 0.0001599 to 0.043073). ‘Valuable/vital resource’ featured as a common response. Early decision making, patient safety, staff and patient satisfaction emerged as consistent themes.
Conclusion
Emergency Departments continue to introduce new models of care to address increasing demand for services. We present a model that utilises an existing workforce, relocating them from the ambulatory and outpatient setting to the ED and increasing their scope to complement triage needs, including COVID-19 PCR testing, ECG and venous blood gas analysis. Our staff have identified these tasks, and the concierge role provided by the phlebotomists as contributions to enhanced patient care and safety.
“Watch-and-wait” or “Lost to follow-up”? Real-World Adherence with Surveillance for Nonoperative Management of Rectal Cancer
Authors: Rubens Merrill , Oduyale Oluseye , Eltahir Ahmed , Kim Hyun , Ohman Kerri , Wise Paul , Hunt Steven , Silviera Matthew , Mutch Matthew , Glasgow Sean Christopher , Smith Radhika , Chapman William
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Due to potential for local regrowth in patients undergoing nonoperative management (NOM) of rectal adenocarcinoma, current guidelines recommend close surveillance as part of any “watch-and-wait” paradigm. These regimens require many visits, which may impose significant burden on patients. There is a paucity of data regarding optimal frequency of examinations. We sought to determine adherence with recommended surveillance, identify predictors of poor adherence, and describe the impact of adherence on oncologic outcomes during the first two years after clinical complete response (cCR).
Methods
This is an analysis of a prospectively-maintained registry of rectal cancer patients, initially seen between June 2016 and October 2021, who opted for NOM following cCR after treatment with radiation and chemotherapy. Surveillance was per-protocol and entailed periodic luminal exams and cross-sectional imaging. Adherence was quantified as the percentage of recommended examinations completed annually or until local regrowth was identified.
Results
Of 255 patients that received radiation and chemotherapy, 107 patients were found to have cCR and met criteria for inclusion. Of these, 65 patients had a sustained cCR and were eligible for a second year of surveillance. Fifty-four patients (50.5%) were fully adherent with the minimum number of recommended surveillance exams during the first year of NOM, and 22 patients (34%) during the second year. Local regrowth was identified in 31 patients (29%), all but two of whom subsequently underwent an R0 resection.
Conclusions
Less than half of patients were fully adherent with the minimum number of recommended surveillance exams during the first two years of nonoperative management. Improving real-world adherence to facilitate optimal oncologic outcomes requires the least burdensome, yet safe regimen, as well as collaborative systems-based practices.
Paraneoplastic Systemic Sclerosis: A Distinct Entity or A Mere Association - A Case Report
Authors: Sahoo Debananda , Devi Sujata , Anupam Anurag , Dey Anupam , Dash Arpita , Mishra Bodhisattwa
Published: February 2024

Background
Systemic Sclerosis is a multi-systemic rheumatological disorder which, in due course, progressed to present as ILD (Interstitial Lung Disease), PAH (Pulmonary Arterial hypertension), Scleroderma Renal Crisis etc. The association between Systemic Sclerosis and malignancy is unclear. Still, many malignancies cause skin thickening as a part of the paraneoplastic syndrome, including breast, gastric and skin neoplasms. These paraneoplastic Systemic Sclerosis patients are usually Scl 70 autoantibody negative. Whether it is a coexisting pathology or a paraneoplastic entity is still debatable [5]. Here we present a case of diffuse Systemic Sclerosis with ADPKD (Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease) and hypothyroidism with metastatic epithelial neoplasm of unknown primary with a positive auto-antibody profile for scleroderma.
Case Presentation:
A 52-year male presented to our ED with a complaint of significant progressive skin tightening over one month associated with increased skin pigmentation. All these symptoms are associated with substantial weight loss, decreased appetite and blurred vision. On examination, BP was 220/120 mm Hg, with deranged renal parameters (Urea 130 mg/dl and Creatinine 9mg/dl). Considering all these findings, D/D were made as Scleroderma Renal crisis or Paraneoplastic Systemic Sclerosis. We found a Supraclavicular LN on examination, which revealed metastatic epithelial malignancy of unknown origin with CK 7 (Cytokeratin 7) and TTF 1 (Transcription Termination Factor) positive on IHC (Immunohistochemistry). LN biopsy revealed a positive insertion mutation in exon 20 of the EGFR (epidermal growth factor receptor) gene, hinting towards an occult Adenocarcinoma of the Lung. The patient started treatment with Erlotinib for occult Adeno Ca of the Lung. He had started with Ramipril, Nifedipine, Clonidine, Prazosin, and MMF for Scleroderma Renal Crisis and skin involvement. HTN was reasonably controlled, and the skin tightening/thickening improved gradually.
Conclusions
Scl 70 antibodies are usually absent in paraneoplastic scleroderma, but there have been few reports of diffuse Systemic Sclerosis with Scl 70 positivity in the background of malignancy as in the present case. So, for any patient with rapid progression of the disease process irrespective of Scl 70 positivity, it is better to probe an underlying malignancy with imaging or endoscopic modalities thoroughly. Our case report will enlighten clinicians regarding the possibility of malignancy whenever such atypical presentation is encountered.
Chemo-Immunotherapy, a Combination Approach for the Treatment of HER2-Positive Breast Cancer in a Mouse Model
Authors: Serhan Cenk , Doğan KILIÇ Kubilay , Yiğit UYANIKGİL , İsmail KARABOZ , Ayşe NALBANTSOY
Published: February 2024

The discovery of tumor-associated antigens has been a major milestone for cancer therapy as the current conventional therapies (radiotherapy, chemotherapy) were found to be insufficient in terms of cancer treatment. Human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER2) is a tumor-associated antigen, aberrantly found in various cancers, including breast cancer. Today, most of the treatment strategies are skewed towards combination therapies rather than monotherapies, they were found to be ineffective mostly because of patients' resistance mechanisms. A combination of more than one therapeutic approach (passive/active immunotherapy, conventional therapies) was found to be more effective in the clinic.
Here, in this study, various vaccine combinations were investigated against the 4T1-HER2 xenograft model of Balb/c mice. Eight different groups of vaccine formulations were tested to find the best synergistic combination including combinations of BM-DC-based vaccine, Peptide-based vaccine, anti-PD-L1, Doxorubicin, and QS-21 adjuvant. Triple combination groups of immunotherapies exerted better activities in terms of tumor dimensions as Doxorubicin+BM-DC-HER2/Neu+QS-21+anti-PD-L1 and Doxorubicin+ HER2/Neu+QS-21+anti-PD-L1 groups significantly decreased tumor dimensions. Similar groups also demonstrated a better stimulation of lymphocytes and IFNγ cytokine in the flow cytometry study, inducing a HER2/Neu specific antibody response in ELISA studies. Doxorubicin+BM-DC-HER2/Neu+QS-21+anti-PD-L1 combination demonstrated significantly higher specific cytotoxicity in lactate dehydrogenase data, as well as the CD4+ and CD8+ responses in the immunohistochemical study.
In conclusion, these data indicated that the Doxotubicin+BM-DC+HER2/Neu+QS-21+anti-PD-L1 vaccine combination synergistically generated a promising activity in terms of tumor dimension and immune response stimulation against HER2 overexpressing breast cancer model in mice.
The effects of exercise on anxiety symptoms in women with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: TAOUSANI ELEFTHERIA , Savvaki Dimitra , Grammatikopoulou Maria G , Mintziori Gesthimani , Theodoridou Anatoli , Koukou Zoi , Goulis Dimitrios G
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Anxiety is a common mental health issue during pregnancy. Moreover, women with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), seem to cope with higher levels of anxiety, being at a higher risk for several health and mental complications. Regular physical exercise in women with GDM is suggested to improve metabolic and reproductive outcomes. However, there are no specific guidelines for exercise in women with GDM. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of exercise on anxiety symptoms in pregnant women with GDM.
Methods
The present non-randomized, open-label clinical trial aimed to investigate the effect of physical exercise on anxiety symptoms in women with GDM. Forty-three women were assigned to three study groups: (a) Advice (n = 17), Walking (n = 14) and Mixed Exercise (n = 12), from GDM diagnosis to delivery.
Results
According to Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI) scores, all groups showed normal anxiety changes or mild anxiety levels pre- and post-intervention (pre-intervention range: 2.98–17.95, post-intervention range: 4.2–17.6), but none experienced severe anxiety.
Conclusion
In the present study, a trend of self-selected pace walking to reduce the BAI scores was detected as the Walking groups had lower scores after the intervention, however this trend did not reach statistical significance. Brisk walking (30–45 min) three times per week may create positive changes in both the treatment plan and the anxiety state of women with GDM. Moreover, the study confirms that routine medical care, counseling and support by an interdisciplinary team are protective against anxiety in women with GDM.
Basal Cell Adenoma and Basal Cell Adenocarcinoma of the Parotid Gland: Clinical Findings and Surgical Outcomes in a Single-Institution Study
Authors: Park Chongsoo , Min Sally , Park Joseph Kyuhyung , Kim Jong-Ho
Published: February 2024

Background
Basal cell adenoma (BCA) is a rare benign tumor within the salivary glands. Basal cell adenocarcinoma (BCAC), the malignant counterpart of BCA, is also an exceedingly rare tumor with very limited clinical studies conducted. This study aims to investigate the clinical characteristics, demographics, and surgical outcomes of patients diagnosed with BCA and BCAC within the parotid gland.
Methods
A retrospective analysis from May 2003 to August 2023 was performed for all patients undergoing parotidectomy for masses. Retrospective data on gender, age, tumor characteristics, and outcomes were collected. Surgical approaches, including negative margin attainment, capsule removal, and histological diagnosis, were also detailed.
Results
The study included 1268 patients who underwent parotidectomy, resulting in 81 cases of BCA and 7 cases of BCAC. BCA patients, with a mean age of 55.1 years, showed diverse age distribution and predominantly presented in the 50s. In BCAC cases, seven female patients exhibited a predominant location in the deep lobes. FNA revealed BCAC in three out of seven cases, and subsequent parotidectomy was performed, resulting in no observed recurrences or metastases.
Conclusion
This study reports the largest number of BCA cases from a single institution and provides comprehensive insights into the demographics, tumor characteristics, and clinical outcomes of both BCA and BCAC. Although further research should be conducted, based on clinical follow-up results, appropriately including the capsule in the tumor excision indicates favorable outcomes, especially when the tumor size is not large.
Prevalence and Associated risk factors of malaria among under-five years Children in, Ilugalan District, Oromia Region, West Ethiopia, 2023
Authors: Kedida Lelisa Fikadu , Zenebe Mengistu Hailemariam , Lemma Solomon Asnake
Published: February 2024

Background
Globally 61% of under-five children were died due to malaria. Information on malaria prevalence and associated risk factors among under-five children in the Ilu Galan district is lacking.
Methods
A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from April to June 2023. A multi-stage sampling technique was conducted to select households. A systematic random sampling technique was applied to enroll study participants. Malaria prevalence determined by thick and thin blood film microscopy and a rapid diagnostic test. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect socio-demographic and associated factors. Data entered into Epi data version 3.1 and exported to SPSS version 26 for analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were done to identify factors associated with malaria. Adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with a 95% confidence interval were used to determine the strength of association. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results
The prevalence of malaria among under-five children was 5.2% (95% CI = 3.5–7.4). P. falciparum, P. vivax, and mixed infection accounted for 71.4%, 25%, and 3.6% respectively. Staying out door at night (AOR = 3.09;95% CI = 1.01–9.48),utilization of ITN (AOR = 0.26;95% CI = 0.07–0.94), presence of eave on the house (AOR = 4.08; 95% CI = 1.20-13.44),less than 1km distance of house hold from river(AOR = 4.32;95% CI = 1.19–15.62) and presence of stagnant water nearby house (AOR = 11.40; 95% CI = 3.71–35.02) were found to increase the odds of getting malaria.
Conclusion
knowing that malaria is still a prevalent health problem among children under five in the study area, the local government and other concerned bodies should focus on malaria prevention and control to minimize the burden.
Establishment of seven lung ultrasound phenotypes: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Wang Qian , Zou Tongjuan , Zeng Xueying , Bao Ting , Yin Wanhong
Published: February 2024

Background
Lung phenotypes have been extensively utilized to assess lung injury and guide precise treatment. However, current phenotypic evaluation methods rely on CT scans and other techniques. Although lung ultrasound (LUS) is widely employed in critically ill patients, there is a lack of comprehensive and systematic identification of LUS phenotypes based on clinical data and assessment of their clinical value.
Methods
Our study was based on a retrospective database. A total of 821 patients were included from September 2019 to October 2020. 1902 LUS examinations were performed in this period. Using a dataset of 55 LUS examinations focused on lung injuries, a group of experts developed an algorithm for classifying LUS phenotypes based on clinical practice, expert experience, and lecture review. This algorithm was subsequently validated and refined using images from an additional 140 LUS examinations. Finally, machine learning was used to apply the validated algorithm to 1902 LUS phenotypes. After sampling 30% of LUS phenotypes, experts substantiated the efficacy of the machine learning algorithm through meticulous manual verification. By utilizing K-means cluster analysis and expert selection of images from a total of 1902 LUS examinations, we established seven distinct LUS phenotypes. To further explore the diagnostic value of these phenotypes for clinical diagnosis, we investigated their auxiliary diagnostic capabilities.
Results
A total of 1902 LUS phenotypes were tested by randomly selecting 30% to verify the phenotypic accuracy. With the 1902 LUS phenotypes, seven lung ultrasound phenotypes were established through statistical K-means cluster analysis and expert screening. The acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) exhibited gravity-dependent phenotypes, while the cardiogenic pulmonary edema exhibited nongravity phenotypes. The baseline characteristics of the 821 patients included age (66.14 ± 11.76), sex (560/321), heart rate (96.99 ± 23.75), mean arterial pressure (86.5 ± 13.57), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II( APACHE II )score (20.49 ± 8.60), and duration of ICU stay (24.50 ± 26.22); among the 821 patients, 78.8% were cured. In severe pneumonia patients, the gravity-dependent phenotype accounted for 42% of the cases, whereas the nongravity-dependent phenotype constituted 58%. These findings highlight the value of applying different LUS phenotypes in various diagnoses.
Conclusions
Seven sets of LUS phenotypes were established through machine learning analysis of retrospective data; these phenotypes could represent the typical characteristics of patients with different types of critical illness.
Oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma and readmission: rates, causes, and risk factors
Authors: Rammal Almoaidbellah , Alqutub Abdulsalam , Alsulami Omar , Mozahim Naif , Mozahim Sarah , Awadh Mohammed , Alqutub Sadiq
Published: February 2024

Background
Oral cancer is a prevalent form of cancer worldwide. Unplanned readmission exposes patients to hospital-acquired complications. The readmission rate is a metric for quality of care. We aimed to identify the rate, causes, and predictors of hospital readmission within 60 days after discharge following oral cancer surgery.
Methods
This 15-year retrospective study included all patients who underwent oral oncologic surgery at a single tertiary center between 2008 and 2023. Patient charts were reviewed for demographic information, comorbidities, and causes for readmission.
Results
Of the 93 patients who underwent oral oncologic surgery, nine (9.70%) were readmitted within 60 days after discharge. The most common reason for readmission was surgical site infection (33.33%), followed by wound bleeding (25%). The significant predictors were unmarried status (P = 0.003), T4 disease status (P = 0.004), a higher cumulative illness rating scale (CIRS) (P = 0.011), radical excisions (P = 0.028), a higher American Society of Anesthesiology (ASA) score (P = 0.029), a lower preoperative serum albumin (P = 0.028), and a greater neutrophil count (P = 0.03).
Conclusion
One in every ten patients was readmitted following oral cancer surgery. The most common cause is surgical site infection. Significant predictors included T4 disease, preoperative hypoalbuminemia, higher neutrophil counts, unmarried status, extensive surgery, and higher baseline comorbidity indices. Future guidelines to lower readmission rates should focus on high-risk patients and involve earlier follow-up, more rigorous postdischarge monitoring, and delayed discharge.
Deep Learning-Based Small Sample Body Vein Recognition and Its Implementation
Authors: Tang Chaoying , Prasad Shitala , Zhang Yufeng
Published: February 2024

In scenarios like forensic investigations, only RGB images of body parts, especially limbs, are available from surveillance. Traditional biometric methods like face, fingerprints, and iris scans are not applicable in such cases. Additionally, hand veins, typically captured using NIR imaging, are not accessible either. To address this challenge, body vein recognition technology has been introduced. Different techniques have been proposed to uncover and extract vein patterns from RGB images. However, handcrafted features are sensitive to image noise, and deep learning methods require extensive training data, which is lacking in forensic investigations. In this study, we presented a small-sample body vein recognition approach based on deep learning. A data augmentation method utilizing Gabor filtering and vein line traction was introduced to enhance generalization performance and tackle the limitation of training samples. A new model combining improved DenseNet and Arcface loss was developed for body vein recognition. Furthermore, a feature retrieval scheme based on binary hash coding was introduced to optimize recognition accuracy and retrieval efficiency. Experimental results using images from 250 forearms and 230 thighs demonstrated the superiority of our small-sample body vein recognition method over other matching techniques. Ablation studies confirmed the effectiveness of the data augmentation and feature retrieval schemes. Finally, the model was deployed on a portable system, leading to the implementation of a contactless body vein recognition system.
Cordycepin: A Molecular Trojan Horse Against Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense - A Computational Perspective
Authors: Showkat Mansoor , Nagesha N , Ashraf Suhail , Nayana Krishna , Bashir Shahida , Nair Athulya S , Hussain Abid , Krishnan Priya , V Rajesh R
Published: February 2024

Fusarium oxysporumis a notorious plant pathogen responsible for devastating losses in agricultural and horticultural crops worldwide. To combat the economic and ecological challenges posed by this pathogen, there is a pressing need for novel antifungal agents. Cordycepin, a natural compound derived from Cordyceps species, has exhibited promising antifungal properties against various pathogens. In this study, we employed molecular docking techniques to investigate the potential inhibitory activity of cordycepin against three critical proteins inFusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense(Foc) SIX13, Fosp9, and FocTR4. Through computational analysis, we elucidated the binding interactions between cordycepin and these target proteins. Our results revealed that cordycepin can effectively dock into the active sites of SIX13, Fosp9, and FocTR4, forming stable complexes with favorable binding energies. These interactions involve key amino acid residues crucial for the biological function of these proteins. Furthermore, we explored the binding modes and potential hydrogen bond interactions, shedding light on the mechanisms through which cordycepin may disrupt the function of these vital proteins inFusarium oxysporum. These findings provide valuable insights into the potential of cordycepin as a novel antifungal agent targeting specific proteins inFusarium oxysporum, which could pave the way for the development of innovative strategies for managing this devastating plant pathogen and mitigating its impact on global agriculture. Further experimental validation and in vivo studies are warranted to confirm the therapeutic potential of cordycepin in controllingFusarium oxysporuminfections.
Effects of Erythropoietin on Cardiac Morphometry in Exercised Adolescent Rats
Authors: Ates Mehmet Burak , Akcakavak Gokhan , Ozdemir Ozgur , Ozdemir Mehmet , Bozkurt Ibrahim
Published: February 2024

Erythropoietin (EPO) is a glycoprotein hormone primarily synthesised in the kidneys. Its main function is to stimulate the proliferation and maturation of erythroid cells in the bone marrow. Although EPOs are prominent with their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-apoptotic and angiogenic effects in addition to anaemia treatment, they are sometimes used by athletes for doping purposes. In the present study, the morphometric effects of EPO on the hearts of exercised adolescent rats were investigated. In the four-week study, 48 40-day-old rats were divided into four main groups: Control, Swimming exercise, Drug, and Swimming + Drug, and eight subgroups based on sex. The control group received intraperitoneal (IP) saline four times a week, while the swimming exercise group received 30 minutes of swimming exercise in addition to saline. The drug control group was administered with epoetin alfa (50 IU/kg, IP, four times a week), while the Swimming + Drug group received 30 minutes of swimming exercise after drug administration. The measurements taken after the study showed that EPO administration did not cause significant changes in important parameters for left ventricular hypertrophy. However, the study found that EPO-treated females exhibited acute cardiac dilatation, which was characterized by thinning of the right heart wall and interventricular septum due to intraventricular haemoconcentration. In conclusion, left heart hypertrophy was not detected morphologically with short-term exercise and EPO administration, but findings that may affect cardiac functions and even progress to hypertrophic cardiomyopathy were observed.
Research on Optimization Design Method of Building Structure Based on Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Yu
Published: February 2024

Building structural design is a complex process essential for producing safe, functional and visually stunning procedures. An additional important aspect of this design strategy is the choice of building materials and techniques. Ensuring that the chosen materials follow the building's goals requires considering variables including the availability of materials, economics and structural integrity. The current developments in the use of algorithms in the field of building structural design and performance evaluation are examined in this study. Different model architectures may be appropriate for training datasets with particular feature sets. Daily weather profiles in the history database contain a variety of characteristics. A collection of rules for development-based feature extraction allows the use of Restricted Boltzmann Machines (RBM). The study demonstrates how Genetic Algorithms (GA) operators work on potential converting solutions, while the concept could include member and structure-level approaches. The findings indicate that 97% of the localization accuracy is categorized. To evaluate the recommended classification technique, five distinct construction types (concrete sheer wall, steel, brick masonry, concrete frame and concrete frame-sheer wall) were categorized using the precision, recall and F1-score evaluation criteria. When the suggested approach is contrasted with existing algorithms, our method produces sufficient findings.
Non-Crohn's complex and multirelapsed perianal fistulas treated with sphincter sparing surgical procedures and adjuvant adipose tissue injection
Authors: Guillaumes Salvador , Hidalgo Nils Jimmy , Bachero Irene , Pena Romina , Tavares Sara , Ardid Jordi , Pera Miguel
Published: February 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the results obtained by the treatment of non-Crohn’s-related complex and multirelapsed perianal fistulas using a surgical sphincter-sparing technique with adjuvant adipose tissue injection, a rich source of progenitor and immunomodulatory cells.
Methods
A prospective, non-randomized, interventional, single-center, open-label clinical trial was conducted from January 2020 to December 2022. Nine patients were enrolled and assessed after a minimum of twelve months of follow-up. All patients underwent removal of the setons, excision, or curettage of the fistula tract and mucosal flap or internal opening suture. The collection and processing of adipose tissue to be injected was performed using a commercially available system.
Results
Selected cases included six men and three women with a mean age of 42. All patients had an extended disease course period, ranging from 3 to 13 years (mean 6.6 years), and a history of multiple previous surgeries, including two to eight interventions (an average of 4.4 per case). All fistulas were high transsphincteric, in four cases in horseshoe and two cases with secondary suprasphincteric or peri-elevator tract fistulas. At a mean follow-up of 18 months (range 12–36), a complete healing rate was documented in six cases (66%) and a remarkable improvement in three cases (33,3%).
Conclusions
In the group of patients described with complex fistulas with multiple recurrences, many from palliative treatments with setons, the adjuvant injection of adipose tissue associated with a sphincter-sparing surgical procedure might help to achieve closure or improvement in a significant percentage of cases.
The study protocol was prospectively registered on Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT 04750499).
UVB-aged microplastics and cellular damage : An in vitro study
Authors: MAESTRA SEBASTIANO LA , Benvenuti Mirko , Alberti Stefano , Ferrea Linda , D'Agostini Francesco
Published: February 2024

Plastics are synthetic organic compounds whose widespread use generates enormous waste. Different processes, such as mechanical abrasion, microbiological activity, and UVB irradiation, can fragment the plastic material and generate microplastics (MPs). MPs are ubiquitous, and various organisms, including humans, can ingest or inhale them, with potential adverse health effects. The differences between UV-aged and virgin particles were studied to evaluate the genotoxic damage and oxidative stress induced by polystyrene MPs with 1 and 5 µm sizes on the monocyte-like cell line (THP-1). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Ζ-potential measurements were used to characterise MP particles after UVB exposure. Cells exposed to MPs show a widespread change in the cellular environment with the generation of Reactive Oxidative Species (ROS), as indicated by the increased malondialdehyde (MDA) level. The occurrence of genotoxic damage is correlated to the smaller size and ageing state of the MPs. The biochemical and genomic alterations observed in this in vitro study suggest that MPs, ubiquitous pollutants, following natural degradation and oxidation processes can cause various adverse effects on the health of the exposed population, making it necessary to carry out further studies to better define the real risk.
In-silico investigation on the discovery of synthesized nucleoside-based antivirals against monkeypox and SARS-CoV-2 Virus
Authors: Balasubramaniyam Thananjeyan , Sreek Aparna Ganapathy Vilasam , Nathan Vinod Kumar , Rampogu Shailima
Published: February 2024

The monkeypox virus and the SARS-CoV-2 virus serve as illustrative instances of agents that give rise to outbreaks. In the current study, we sought new broad-spectrum nucleoside-based antivirals that target viral particle attachment and target cell penetration. We used virtual molecular docking tools to assess the binding capability of the synthesized nucleoside-based medicines to the surface viral proteins and cell receptors. The results showed that the nucleoside-based antiviral drugs bounded well with the primary protease of SARS CoV-2 Mpro (PDB ID: 6LU7) and A42R Profilin-like protein of monkeypox virus (PDB ID: 4QWO). The interaction scores were observed to be of -7.82 kcal/mol by 8-amino G for 6LU7 and -7.95 kcal/mol by 8-Bromo A for 4QWO. The ligands tested were found to have high gastrointestinal absorption, with no blood-brain barrier permeability. The binding mode analysis revealed that most of the peptides that showed high interaction score were non-mutagenic but were found to be developmental toxicant. These compounds can be taken into consideration in the future for additional optimization and in-vitro experimental validation for the development of anti-susceptible drugs and vaccines.
Examining the effectiveness of Mozart's music on reading and writing performance of pupils in a Nigerian elementary school.
Authors: OLUWAFEMI AKINTADE
Published: February 2024

This research study aims to investigate how Mozart's music impacts the reading and writing performance of primary school children in Nigeria. The study spanned six weeks and involved thirty children aged six to ten, whose reading and writing abilities were assessed. The participants were divided into two groups: an experimental group of fifteen children received English language lessons and test accompanied by Mozart's music as background for one month and two weeks, while the remaining fifteen children formed the control group and received similar lessons and test without the music. To evaluate the effect of background music, a t-test was conducted to compare the performance of the experimental and control groups in reading comprehension and writing tasks, both with and without M ozart's music. The results showed a statistically significant difference between the two groups, suggesting that integrating Mozart and classical music into learning could be an effective strategy for enhancing literacy development through improved reading comprehension and writing skills. This research contributes to the current understanding of the correlation between music and cognitive development, with a specific focus on literacy. It centers on primary school children in Nigeria and seeks to address a notable gap in the existing literature. While previous studies have predominantly examined the influence of Mozart's music on reading abilities, the writing aspect of language skills has received limited attention. By exploring this unexplored territory, the study aims to shed light on the advantages of integrating music into classroom learning and its potential to enhance students' motivation to learn.
Study Approaches of Campus-Based and Distance Learning Undergraduates during Emergency Remote Teaching Amid the COVID-19 Pandemic in India
Authors: SANWAL ANJU
Published: February 2024

One of the significant dimensions of learning design for quality student learning is the student approach to study and their learning strategies. This assumption assumes considerable importance, especially in the contemporary context of the COVID-19 pandemic and the sudden switch to remote teaching-learning. The situation is more vulnerable in developing countries where both campus and distance learning students were compulsorily involved in this new form of learning. The present study was undertaken to determine whether there were any significant differences in undergraduate students’ approaches to learning or learning strategies, or in age, sex, or mode of delivery while undertaking home study at the time of the pandemic in India. The revised version of the Study Process Questionnaire (R-SPQ-2F) was administered to 208 randomly selected undergraduate students studying at two campus-based central universities (n = 92) and one national open university (n = 116) in the national capital Delhi. The results showed that distance learning and female students adopted more deep approaches to study than did the campus students and male students respectively. In both delivery contexts, the female students had greater intrinsic motivation and used more of a deep approach to learning than did their male counterparts. The results of this study have been discussed in relation to previous studies on the student approach to study. There are also implications for national and institutional policy and the practice of teaching-learning in higher education.
Corporate governance and cash holdings: Focusing on a corporate governance report in Korea
Authors: Troy Chua Kevin , Lee Hansol
Published: February 2024

This study examines the effect of corporate governance on a company’s cash holdings, focusing on a firm’s compliance levels with core corporate governance indicators as outlined in the corporate governance report. Utilizing a random effect generalized least squares (GLS) regression model, this study evaluates 812 firm-year observations from Korean publicly traded companies covering the period 2018 to 2021. The results indicate that companies with robust governance structures generally maintain lower levels of cash holdings (coefficient = –0.0263, p-value = 0.044), corroborating the flexibility hypothesis. Moreover, higher compliance levels with governance matters concerning shareholder protection (coefficient = –0.0388, p-value = 0.090) and board of directors (coefficient = –0.0512, p-value = 0.052) are associated with reduced cash holdings. Further analysis, accounting for a firm’s organizational capital, underscores that the inverse relationship between corporate governance and cash holdings is more pronounced in organizations with lesser organizational capital (coefficient = –0.0548, p-value < 0.01). This study contributes empirical evidence showing that strict compliance with core corporate governance indicators, indicative of strong corporate governance, substantially affects a firm’s cash management. Additionally, this study offers valuable insights for regulatory authorities and investors and enhances the existing body of knowledge on the interplay between corporate governance and cash holdings.
Climate change and farmers' perception in Sivakasi taluk, India: a nexus and a suggestion for sustainable water reuse
Authors: Baanu B. Bharani , Babu K. S. Jinesh
Published: February 2024

Climate change poses a major threat to agriculture and food security, especially in developing countries where farmers depend on rainfall and groundwater for irrigation. This paper investigates how farmers in Sivakasi taluk, Tamil Nadu, India perceive and respond to climate change – rainfall and temperature – and its impacts on agriculture. Actual rainfall and temperature data are analyzed using Mann–Kendall test and Sen's slope estimator test, and the results are compared against the farmers' perceptions obtained through a questionnaire survey. The trend analysis showed an insignificant decrease in rainfall and a significant increase in temperature. Most farmers perceived rainfall change correctly, but not temperature change. It is found that water scarcity is a major challenge for agriculture due to reduced rainfall, increased temperature, and inadequate adaptations. To address this challenge, water reuse is proposed as a sustainable alternate adaptation that involves using treated wastewater (TWW) from a decentralized sewage treatment plant for irrigation. An index named Water Reuse Index (WRI) is developed to estimate the fraction of TWW that can replace freshwater irrigation. This study provides insights into farmers' perception of climate change and suggests a novel way to enhance water security and resilience in agriculture.
Why Ukraine Needs an International - Not Internationalised - Tribunal to Prosecute the Crimes of Aggression Committed Against It
Authors: McDougall Carrie
Published: February 2024

Ukraine has called for the establishment of an ad hoc tribunal to investigate and prosecute crimes of aggression committed against it in the context of the Russian invasion. Ukraine has insisted that such a tribunal must be international in nature. Members of the G7, however, have stated that they can only support an “internationalised” or hybrid tribunal embedded in Ukraine’s domestic legal system. This article considers the critiques advanced against the international tribunal model and contends that many of these arguments are flawed, while arguments in favour of the internationalised model are misplaced or overstated. In addition to other advantages, it is demonstrated that an international tribunal: could be set up more quickly; would have a greater prospect of ensuring immunities do not apply; and would be more effective in reinforcing the prohibition of the use of force, thereby maximising the potential of deterrence. For these reasons it is concluded that an international tribunal is the best option for ensuring that those most responsible for crimes of aggression committed against Ukraine are held to account.