bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severity assessment of central nervous system infections by determining the level of myeloperoxidase protein in neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in cerebrospinal fluid: a retrospective case-control study
Authors: Han Song , Yang Suge , Wang Yun
Published: January 2024

Background and objectives:
Central nervous system (CNS) infections, represented by encephalitis, are life-threatening conditions frequently encountered by neurologists. Timely and accurate diagnosis is essential for implementing effective treatment. The objective of this study is to explore the impact of central nervous system infectious diseases on patient prognosis through the detection of myeloperoxidase (MPO) protein in neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in cerebrospinal fluid.
Methods
This retrospective case-control study was conducted in the Neurology Ward of Shandong University Second Hospital, involving patients diagnosed with infectious encephalitis confirmed by PCR and other methods from January 2018 to January 2024. The presence of MPO protein in the cerebrospinal fluid of the patients was measured using an ELISA method.
Results
We enrolled 50 patients diagnosed with infectious encephalitis by means of PCR testing and divided them into three groups: purulent meningitis (n = 25), viral encephalitis (n = 25), and a control group of non-infectious disease patients (n = 25). After normalality testing, there was a significant difference in the MPO content between the purulent meningitis group and the other two groups (P<0.0001). We subsequently analyzed the general data of the purulent meningitis group and the control group, and found that blood leukocyte count, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leukocyte count, and CSF protein content were also different between the two groups. Correlation analysis revealed a high correlation between MPO and blood leukocyte count (R2 = 0.36, P = 0.0015), CSF leukocyte count (R2 = 0.53, P<0.0001), and CSF albumin content (R2 = 0.34, P = 0.0019), indicating that MPO could serve as one of the diagnostic indicators for purulent meningitis. Using the ROC curve analysis, we found that when MPO ≥ 14.625ng/ml, the prognosis of purulent meningitis was poor, with slow patient recovery, and an accuracy of 98.7%.
Conclusion
The measurement of MPO levels in cerebrospinal fluid samples obtained after admission can aid in the diagnosis of Suppurative meningitis.
Modeling distribution and evolution of loess pore structure by two- dimensional distinct element method analyses
Authors: Zhu Yongfeng , Fan Wen
Published: January 2024

The macroscopic mechanical properties of loess are greatly influenced by its microstructure. In this study, the pore structure evolution of loess was investigated by using the distinct element method (DEM). And image processing techniques were employed to quantify the distribution and evolution of pore structure during shearing. The results indicate that the failure process of the numerical sample was mainly controlled by the shear stress and force chains located in the shear band rotated from the initial vertical direction to the shear band inclination under the biaxial compression. The increase of the porosity within the shear band is the main reason of the local volumetric dilation of the shear band. With the increasing axial strain, the proportion of small pores gradually increases, while the proportion of mesopores gradually decreases. The distribution of the pore axis ratio changes slightly, but the distribution of pore orientation is consistent in the evolution of the shear band. Meanwhile, the pores within the shear band are enlarged and then divided into smaller pores gradually, but the upper and lower pores of the shear band have a slight difference. These results provide a deeper insight into the distribution and evolution of pore structure in the loess sample with a shear band during shearing.
Effects of polishing disc material and substrate surface temperature on the tribological behaviors and machining results of β-Ga2O3(100)
Authors: Wang Tao , xiong Qiang , Yan Qiusheng , peng Shun , lin Junqiang , lu Jiabin , pan Jisheng , xia JiangNan
Published: January 2024

Defects, such as scratches, cleavage fracture, and cleavage pit, occur during surface processing and affect the surface integrity of β-Ga2O3(100) substrates. This study analyzed the effects of polishing materials (polyurethane, lead, and copper) and substrate surface temperatures (25, 10, and 0 ℃) on the polishing results to overcome the effects of such defects on the substrates. Vickers indentation test was used to detect the effects of the material and surface temperature on the hardness of the disc and substrate, respectively. Machining was verified by conducting ball-disk friction wear and polishing experiments. The experimental results indicate that the material of the polished optical disc significantly affected β-Ga2O3(100) during surface processing. The higher the hardness of the polished optical disc, the greater is the material removal rate (MRR) of substrate surface, and more serious is the surface cleavage phenomenon. A lead disc with lower hardness can be used to process β-Ga2O3(100) for realizing a higher MRR, thereby effectively avoiding cleavage fractures and obtaining a surface roughness (Ra) and scratch depth of 3.4 nm and 18 nm, respectively. The hardness and mechanical strength of the substrate can be enhanced at low temperatures, and the indentation depth becomes smaller under the action of external forces, effectively inhibiting the formation of scratches and pits on the surface of the substrate during polishing. After polishing the substrate at 0 ℃, the Ra, scratch depth, and total number of cleavage pits were 2.2 nm, 14.3 nm, and 246, respectively. Compared with 25℃, Polishing the substrate at 0 ℃ decreased the Ra, scratch depth, and number of cleavage pits by 35.3, 20.6, and 34.9%, respectively. At 0 ℃, the substrate effectively avoided cleavage fracture and inhibited scratch and pit formation, thereby significantly improving the polishing effect.
WITHDRAWN: Impact of Covid 19 Pandemic on the Professional Quality of Life of Nursing Officers Worked in Covid19 Units.
Authors: Abraham Jessy , Therese A Maria
Published: January 2024

Background
The world-wide COVID-19 pandemic was brought on by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) coronavirus outbreak1. Its rapid spread, virulence, fatality in severe cases, and lack of a known cure make it a serious threat to human life and health and have a detrimental impact on people's mental health. There is a unique risk of exposure to environmental and occupational hazards in the nursing profession2. During COVID19, nurses who were responding to a health emergency encountered numerous difficulties. A significant nursing concern is that nurses experienced psychological distress, high workloads during uncertain times, and burnout, which can result in symptoms of depression and anxiety3. Objective of the study were to assess the level of professional quality of life of nursing officers who worked in covid19 units. Methodology: Quantitative research approach and a simple random sampling technique used to select 110 samples. The data collection tool used was the Professional quality of life scale (PQOLS).
Results
The findings of the study reveals that among 110 samples majority 67.3% of the nursing officers show low levels of compassion satisfaction. 90% of them, exhibit moderate burnout. Moderate secondary traumatic stress was present in 86.4% of the nursing officers.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on nursing officers' professional quality of life4. They need to be enabled and encouraged to take care of themselves in order to continue offering uninterruptible, high-quality care5.
Triple Platelet Inhibition in Intracranial Thrombectomy with Additional Acute Cervical Stent Angioplasty due to Tandem Lesion: A retrospective single-center analysis
Authors: Khanafer Ali , Henkes Hans , Bücke Philipp , Hennersdorf Florian , Bäzner Hansjörg , Forsting Michael , von Gottberg Philipp
Published: January 2024

Background
Acute stroke treatment with intracranial thrombectomy and treatment of ipsilateral carotid artery stenosis/occlusion (“tandem lesion”, TL) in one session is considered safe. However, the risk of stent restenosis after TL treatment is high, and antiplatelet therapy (APT) preventing restenosis must be well balanced to avoid intracranial hemorrhage. We investigated the safety and 90-day outcome of patients receiving TL treatment under triple-APT, focused on stent-patency and possible disadvantageous comorbidities.
Methods
Patients receiving TL treatment in the setting of acute stroke between 2013 and 2022 were analyzed regarding peri-/postprocedural safety and stent patency after 90 days. All patients received intravenous eptifibatide and acetylsalicylic acid and one of the three drugs prasugrel, clopidogrel, or ticagrelor. Duplex imaging was performed 24h after treatment, at discharge and 90 days, and digital subtraction angiography was performed if restenosis was suspected.
Results
176 patients were included. Periprocedural complications occurred in 2.3% of the patients at no periprocedural death, and in-hospital death in 13.6%. Discharge mRS score was maintained or improved at the 90-day follow-up in 86%, 4.54% had an in-stent restenosis requiring treatment at 90 days. No recorded comorbidity considered disadvantageous for stent patency showed statistical significance, the duration of the endovascular procedure had no significant effect on outcome.
Conclusion
TL treatment with triple APT resulted in a lower restenosis rate, comparable rates of sICH and mRS in comparison to single and dual APT. Aggressive APT in the initial phase may therefore prevent recurrent stroke better than restrained platelet inhibition. Comorbidities did not influence stent patency.
Study on the mechanism and control of strong ground pressure in the mining of shallow buried close-distance coal seam passing through the loess hilly region
Authors: He Yanpeng , Huang Qingxiang , Ma Li
Published: January 2024

Shallow buried close-distance coal seam (SBCCS) is widely found in northern Shaanxi, China. In the process of mining under the loess hilly area (LHA) in SBCCS, many accidents of strong ground pressure have occurred. Taking the in the Zhangjiamao Coal Mine as the background, this study revealed the mechanism of high ground pressure when the working face of lower coal seam passes through the surface loess hilly region. On-site measurements, physical similarity simulation, numerical calculation, and theoretical analysis were combined to study the mining process of SBCCS. The movement characteristics of the activated structure of the interval strata of the lower coal seam were analyzed. The dynamic load and the change pattern of the front abutment pressure (FAP) of the support during the loading stage of entering and exiting the loess hilly were determined. A coupled structural mechanics model of the overlying activated voussoir beam and the step voussoir beam rock beam of the interval strata was established, revealing the dynamic loading mechanism of strong ground pressure during passing through the LHA . The results showed that the dynamic load of the working face was the highest in areas affected by the load of the LHA, followed by the load while entering the LHA , the peak value of the FAP in the load-influenced LHA was high, which was approximately 1.12 times that after leaving the load-influenced LHA and 1.61 times that before entering this area. By establishing a mechanical model of the roof coupling structure when entering and exiting the load-influenced LHA, it was revealed that the dynamic load of the support while mining under the goaf in the LHA is mainly due to the synchronous movement of the activated structure of the collapsed roof of the upper coal seam and the interval rock structure. The load in the LHA was transmitted to the interval rock structure through the activated structure, resulting in a high dynamic load on the support. The study concluded that the determination of the support resistance of the working face should be based on the high-period compressive load of the synchronous movement of the roof structure in the loess hilly beam area. Through the engineering practice of hydraulic fracturing, the roof structure of the interval strata is changed, which can effectively reduce the dynamic pressure disaster of the working face. The research provides a scientific basis for the safe and efficient mining of shallow coalfields, and it provides reference for similar mining.
Quantitative Analysis of Ganglion Cell-Inner Plexiform Layer Thickness, Inner Plexiform Layer Integrity, and Macular Vascular Density in High Myopia Using Optical Coherence Tomography Angiography
Authors: Wang Lu , Lin Bin-wu , Zhang Can-yang , Pang Long
Published: January 2024

Background
A thinner ganglion cell-inner plexiform layer (GC-IPL) and inner plexiform layer (IPL) are indicative of several ophthalmic and central nervous system diseases. We aim to To investigate alterations in the thickness of the GC-IPL and IPL, as well as their relation to changes in macular microvasculature, in patients with high myopia.
Methods
Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and OCT-angiography (OCT-A) were performed on patients with high myopia (HM) and non-HM individuals. Comparative analysis was conducted to assess the thickness of the choroid, macula, GC-IPL, IPL, and macular superficial and deep vascular density (VD). Additionally, correlations between GC-IPL and IPL thickness with axial length or macular vascular density were examined.
Results
The results showed that HM eyes exhibited a significantly thinner subfoveal choroid and macular thickness (MT) in the 6 mm area than non-high myopia eyes (p < 0.05). In the 3 mm area, HM eyes had a lower average thickness of GC-IPL and IPL with some partial areas also showing reduced thickness (p < 0.05). Within the 6 mm area, HM eyes had significantly thinner GC-IPL and IPL overall. The ratios of GCIPL/MT and IPL/MT were smaller in HM eyes in both total and partial areas within the 6 mm area (all p < 0.05), but no difference was observed in the 3 mm area. The macular vascular density, both in the superficial and deep retinal layers, was lower in HM eyes (p < 0.05). Correlations were found between the macular vascular density and the GC-IPL and IPL within 6 mm (p < 0.005), but no linear relationship was observed between the thickness of the GC-IPL, IPL, and axial length.
Conclusion
High myopia eyes exhibited significant thinning of both the GC-IPL and IPL, possibly due to reduced vascular density in the retina. This thinning of the GC-IPL and IPL may indicate that neurodegenerative processes may commence prior to the development of maculopathy associated with high myopia.
Exploring the Quality of Life (QOL) of Medical Students in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Bilawal Makhdoom , Shafique Ramna , Ansari Rafay Shahab , Bashir Muhammad Arsalan , Nadeem Muhammad Amaan , Qayyum Sardar Noman , Shah Hussain Haider , Tehseen Annoushay , Alnemr Lujain , Noori Samim
Published: January 2024

Background:
The pursuit of medical education is challenging and sometimes it can affect the overall quality of life of medical students. Assessing the quality of life of medical students is the first step to prepare efficient future healthcare professionals. This study used WHOQOL-BREF (World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version) questionnaire to evaluate the quality of life of medical students in Karachi, Pakistan.
Materials and Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 344 medical students belonging to different medical universities in Karachi, Pakistan. The WHOQOL-BREF (World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version) questionnaire was used to assess QOL, which included 26 items covering four domains: physical, psychological, social, and environmental. All scores for domains ranged from 4 to 20. Scoring was done according to the WHOQOL-BREF procedure manual. The questionnaire was disseminated using Google Forms among medical students. SPSS software was utilized to analyze the data. The reliability was evaluated by implementing Cronbach's alpha, and the validity was confirmed by applying the Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) test. For each variable and QoL domain, descriptive statistics were computed, including frequencies, percentages, averages, and standard deviations. Domain scores were compared employing a t-test and one-way ANOVA, with p values less than 0.05 indicating statistical significance.
Results:
Among the 344 medical students, 56.7% (n = 195) were females while 43.3% (n = 149) were males. The WHOQOL-BREF demonstrated excellent reliability with Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.918. Most medical students rated their overall QOL (62.2%) and health satisfaction (46.8%) as good with being able to get around well (71.3%). No significant gender differences were found across the various QOL domains. Martial status significantly impacted the QOL scores with p < 0.005. Single students had significantly higher QOL scores than married/separated/divorced students. Overall, environmental domain had the highest mean score (26.81 ± 6.17), while social relationships had the lowest mean score (9.68 ± 2.93).
Conclusion:
The study findings provide valuable insights into the QoL of medical students. Most participants reported moderate satisfaction with their physical health while lower satisfaction with psychological, social and environmental components of QoL. Marital status was found to impact the quality of life significantly with single students having a greater QoL. These findings can help form targeted interventions to enhance medical students’ quality of life to prepare efficient future healthcare professionals.
Dufulin activates OsDUF6 protein against salt stress in rice plant
Authors: Ma Guangming , zhang Yong , Li Xiangyang Y.
Published: January 2024

Background
Dufulin is a chemical immune activator in rice plant. Soil salinity is one of the main environmental stresses in rice production. When plants are exposed to salt stress, a range of cellular equilibria will be disrupted. Previous studies have shown that Dufulin has a positive effect on salt tolerance in rice.
Results
In this study, we studied the mechanism of Dufulin in response to salt stress. Based on the transcriptome analysis of Dufulin in the process of salt tolerance in rice, we selected the OsDUF6 protein located on the cell membrane and studied its molecular function by overexpression of OsDUF6. The results showed that the salt-induced decreases in root, stem, and leaf length and increased leaf yellowing rate and Na+ concentration in the wild-type plant were improved in the overexpressed lines, and increased the enzyme activity of the SOD, POD, CAT and PAL. OsDUF6 played a positive role in Na + transport by comparing the growth of the salt-sensitive yeast mutant complemented with OsDUF6. In addition, RT-qPCR analysis confirmed that the overexpression of OsDUF6 significantly changed the expression level of genes related to growth and stress tolerance.
Conclusions
Combined with previously published data, our results supported that OsDUF6 is an important functional factor of Dufulin to promote salt stress resistance in rice and plays a role in promoting salt tolerance in rice.
A retrospective analysis utilizing the SEER database to develop and validate a prognostic nomogram for middle-aged and older patients diagnosed with squamous cell carcinoma of the mobile tongue
Authors: Qi Junbo , Lun Xiaohan , Li Xin , Liu Weixian
Published: January 2024

BACKGROUND:
The overall survival (OS) of squamous cell carcinoma of the mobile tongue remains dismal. This research aimed to develop a predictive nomogram model capable of forecasting the impact of various factors on the OS of mobile tongue squamous cell carcinoma (MTSCC) in middle-aged and older patients.
METHODS:
The study population consisted of patients diagnosed with MTSCC between 2010 and 2015. These individuals were identified through the utilization of the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. Following this, at random, these people were separated into two sets: a training set and a validation set. Risk factors for OS in the training set were identified using univariate and multivariate COX regression analyses. Prognostic nomograms for middle-aged and older patients with MTSCC were then created using independent risk factors and validated using the area under the ROC curve, calibration curves, and DCA curves. Finally, a comparison was made between the nomogram and TNM staging in order to assess their respective predictive capabilities.
Results:
In total, 2354 eligible patients were enrolled; of these, 707 were designated for validation, and 1647 were assigned to the training set. OS-independent prognostic factors included age, race, gender, tumor pathology grading, T-stage, N-stage, whether the primary site was operated on or not, and radiotherapy (all P < 0.05). The AUC values of the OS prognostic nomograms, which were built utilizing independent prognostic parameters, are as follows: The training set yielded an AUC of 0.793, 0.750, and 0.749 for the 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year OS, respectively. The calibration curves of the nomograms exhibited a substantial level of concordance between the projected and observed rates of survival. DCA curve concluded that prognostic net benefit was greater for nomograms featuring broad high-risk thresholds compared to TNM.
CONCLUSION:
This model has better predictive ability than AJCC staging and it can help oral and maxillofacial surgeons to predict the prognosis of tongue squamous carcinoma.
Experimental Investigation and Parametric Optimization of Automated MIG welding Stainless Steel SS316 with Low Alloy Steel AISI 4140 on Mechanical Properties
Authors: Deko Tajudin Ayub , Beri Habtamu , Rajhi Ali A. , Duhduh Alaauldeen A. , Edacherian Abhilash , Khan Sohaib Z. , Ahmed Gulam Mohammed Sayeed
Published: January 2024

In marine, aerospace, automotive, and biomedical engineering, components and structures are made of different materials that have properties in order to meet specific performance requirements. Stainless steel 316 and low alloy steels are the most commonly used materials in the marine industry, where corrosive resistivity and high specific strength are the design requirements. This was the main importance of welding dissimilar metal using automated MIG to increase productivity, improve quality, reliability, and reduce labor costs. This research work aimed to study how different MIG process parameters (welding current, wire feed rate, gas flow rate, and welding speed) affect the mechanical properties of welding two different metals together, namely stainless steel 316 and low alloy steel 4140. To study the significance and contribution of each parameter, analysis of variance (ANOVA) were conducted using Minitab 21 software. The tensile strength and flexural strength experimental results showed that the welding current parameter has a high significant effect in both cases, followed by welding speed. The hardness result shows that the welding speed followed by the welding current has a significant effect on hardness. Weld metal had higher hardness than stainless steel and low alloy steel base metals.
Prospective benchmarking of an observational analysis against a randomized trial: beta blockers after myocardial infarction with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Matthews Anthony A , Dahabreh Issa J. , MacDonald Conor J. , Lindahl Bertil , Hofmann Robin , Erlinge David , Yndigegn Troels , Berglund Anita , Jernberg Tomas , Hernán Miguel A.
Published: January 2024

Prospective benchmarking of an observational analysis against a randomized trial increases confidence in the benchmarking process as it relies exclusively on aligning the protocol of the trial and the observational analysis, while the trials findings are unavailable. The Randomized Evaluation of Decreased Usage of Betablockers After Myocardial Infarction (REDUCE-AMI) trial started recruitment in September 2017 and results are expected in 2024. REDUCE-AMI aimed to estimate the effect of long-term beta blockers on the risk of death and myocardial following a myocardial infarction with preserved left ventricular systolic ejection fraction. We specified the protocol of a target trial as similar as possible to that of REDUCE-AMI, and then emulated the target trial using observational data from Swedish healthcare registries. Had everyone followed the protocol, the observational analysis estimated a reduction in the 5-year risk of death or myocardial infarction of 0.8 percentage points for beta blockers compared with no beta blockers; effects ranging from an absolute reduction of 4.5 percentage points to an increase of 2.8 percentage points in the risk of death or myocardial infarction were compatible with our data under conventional statistical criteria. Once results of REDUCE-AMI are published, we will compare results of our observational analysis against those from the trial. If this prospective benchmarking is successful, it provides credibility for additional analyses using these observational data, which can rapidly deliver answers to questions that could not be answered by the initial trial. If it is not, we will conduct a “postmortem” analysis to identify the reasons for the discrepancy. Prospective benchmarking shifts the investigator focus away from an endeavour to use observational data to obtain similar results as a completed randomized trial, to a systematic attempt to align the design and analysis of the trial and the observational analysis.
Optimizing Breathlessness Management in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Insights from a Comprehensive Systematic Review
Authors: Filipe Catarina Bico , Carreira Nuno Reis , Reis-Pina Paulo
Published: January 2024

Background:
Breathlessness is a prevalent symptom affecting the quality of life (QOL) of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients.
This systematic review explored the interventions for controlling breathlessness in ALS patients, emphasizing palliative care (PALC), non-invasive ventilation (NIV), opioids, and non-pharmacological strategies.
Methods:
A comprehensive search of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases was conducted. Eligibility criteria encompassed adults with ALS or motor neuron disease experiencing breathlessness. Outcomes included QOL and symptom control. Study designs comprised qualitative studies, cohort studies, and randomized controlled trials.
Results:
Eight studies were included, most exhibiting low bias risk, comprising one randomized controlled trial, three cohort studies, two comparative retrospective studies, and two qualitative studies (interviews). Most studies originated from Europe, with one from the United States of America. The participants totaled 3423, with ALS patients constituting 95.6%. PALC consultations significantly improved symptom assessment, advanced care planning, and discussions about goals of care. NIV demonstrated efficacy in managing breathlessness, with considerations for device limitations. Opioids were effective, though predominantly studied in non-ALS patients. Non-pharmacological strategies varied in efficacy among patients.
Conclusion:
The findings underscore the need for individualized approaches in managing breathlessness in ALS. PALC, NIV, opioids, and non-pharmacological strategies play crucial roles, each with their unique considerations. Further research, especially ALS-specific self-management studies, is warranted.
TCF19 promotes cell proliferation and tumor formation in lung cancer by activating the Raf/MEK/ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Tian Yahui , Xin Shaowei , Wan Zitong , Liu Lu , Fan Zhenzhen , Li Tian , Peng Fujun , Xiong Yanlu , Han Yong
Published: January 2024

Objective
This study aimed to investigate the role of TCF19 in lung cancer, focusing on its impact on the development and progression of tumors. Specifically, the objective was to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying TCF19-mediated effects, with a particular emphasis on its involvement in the RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway.
Methods
The research involved the analysis of lung cancer tissues to assess the expression levels of TCF19. In vitro experiments were conducted using lung cancer cells (A549 and Hop62) with TCF19 overexpression. Transgenic mouse models were employed to study the in vivo effects of TCF19 on the development of primary tumors. Transcriptome sequencing was performed to identify alterations in gene expression profiles, and further experiments were carried out to investigate the activation status of the RAF/MEK/ERK pathway. Functional assays, including cell cycle progression and the levels of cell cycle-associated proteins, were conducted to understand the underlying mechanisms.
Results
The research findings demonstrated significant overexpression of TCF19 in lung cancer tissues. In vitro experiments revealed that TCF19 overexpression stimulated the growth of lung cancer cells and facilitated the development of primary tumors in transgenic mice. Mechanistically, TCF19 overexpression was associated with an elevation in the Ras and MAPK signaling pathways, as indicated by increased phosphorylation of Raf1, MEK1/2, and ERK1/2 in A549 and Hop62 cells. However, the inhibition of RAF1 or ERK, either through shRaf1 or ERK inhibitor, led to a reduction in cell cycle-related proteins and inhibited cell growth in TCF19-overexpressing cells.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this study identified TCF19 as an oncogene in lung carcinoma. The research highlighted its specific impact on the RAF/MEK/ERK signaling pathway, offering insights into a novel aspect of the molecular cascade involved in lung cancer development. Targeting TCF19 or its associated signaling pathways may present a promising avenue for the management of lung cancer characterized by elevated TCF19 levels.
Application of Friction Riveting technique for the assembly of electronic components on printed circuit boards (PCB)
Authors: Rodrigues Camila F. , Boas Maria C. Vilas , Blaga Lucian , Bartz Olaf , Klusemann Benjamin
Published: January 2024

The Friction Riveting process has shown promising feasibility for a variety of material combinations and applications in the transportation industry. Recent research has explored the potential application of this technique in electronics, specifically for the assembly of printed circuit boards (PCBs), using AA-2024-T3 rivets on thin glass-fiber-reinforced epoxy substrates. Considering these promising results, this study focuses on the effects of reducing the diameter of the rivets used in Friction Riveting because of the need for downscaling when joining assemblies on a smaller scale. Therefore, the joint formation of joints produced with PCBs was investigated in terms of process temperature evolution, microstructural changes, and mechanical properties. Joints were obtained at process temperatures ranging from 285 ºC to 368 ºC. Notably, the use of 4 mm rivets resulted in extensive delamination, weak joint mechanisms, and cracking. These issues were impaired by the different coefficients of thermal expansion of the materials involved. However, reducing the rivet diameter to 3 mm significantly improved the joint quality. Although a further reduction to 2.5 mm rivet diameter minimized delamination, it led to insufficient anchorage and cracking. Overall, joints produced with a 3 mm rivet diameter achieved the highest ultimate tensile force (UTF) of 276 N. This study lays the foundation for applying the Friction Riveting process to practical PCB assemblies. It demonstrates that it is possible to achieve a balance between sufficient rivet anchoring, minimized delamination, and reduced cracking by optimizing the process parameters to the diameter-to-thickness ratio. Further joint optimization can be deduced from this study by potentially using rivets with lower plasticizing temperatures and selecting PCBs with improved heat resistance. In summary, this research highlights the prospect of Friction Riveting as an innovative method for PCB assembly, demonstrating the critical role of temperature control and rivet diameter in ensuring robust joint formation and performance.
Size optimization of CNOT circuits on NISQ
Authors: Zhang anpeng , Feng xiutao , Xu shengyuan
Published: January 2024

Quantum computers in practice today require strict memory constraints, where 2-qubit operations can only be performed between the qubits closest to each other in a graph structure. So a quantum circuit must undergo a transformation to the graph before it can be implemented. In this paper, we study the optimization of the CNOT circuits on some noisy intermediate-scale quantum(NISQ) devices. Compared with previous works, we decompose it into two sub-problems: optimization with a given initial qubit distribution and optimization without limitations of initial qubit distribution. We find that most of the previous researches focused on the first sub-problem, and ignored the influence of different distribution of qubits in the same topology structure on the optimization results. In this paper, we take both sub-problems into account and give some new optimization algorithms. In short, our method is divided into two steps: matrix optimization and routing optimization. We implement matrix optimization with the algorithm in [1 ] and put forward a new heuristic algorithm with MILP method which can solve the second step. We implement our algorithm on IBM20 and some other NISQ devices, the results are better than most other methods in our experiment.
Analysis of miRNA and mRNA transcription profiles changes in the hippocampus of fluorosis rats
Authors: Huang Wei , Wu Liaowei , Qin Ming , Gao Yue , Guo Ning , Gao Yanhui
Published: January 2024

Fluoride exposure can impair learning and memory functions in rats. miRNAs participate in the regulation of learning and memory functions in the hippocampus of rats. In this study, a sub-chronic fluoride poisoning rat model with drinking water containing 0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/L sodium fluoride was constructed. Morris water maze and Nissl staining were used to confirm the impairment of learning and memory functions and the reduction of neuronal numbers in fluoride-poisoned rats. High-throughput sequencing technology was used to analyze the miRNA and mRNA transcription profiles in the hippocampus of rats exposed to 100 mg/L sodium fluoride and the control group. Four differentially transcribed miRNAs were selected to verify the reliability of the sequencing results using qRT-PCR. The study found that 13 differentially transcribed miRNAs, including miR-10b-5p, miR-23b-5p, miR-3585-5p, and miR-96-5p, regulate 51 target genes. These target genes may participate in hippocampal damage of fluoride-exposed rats through various processes.
Research on the accessibility of the entire travel process using public transportation in mountainous cities: Taking the central urban area of Chongqing as an example, China
Authors: Sun Ao , Huang Yong , Feng Gaoqian , Xiang Hengling , Huang Chen
Published: January 2024

The accessibility of the entire travel process using public transportation refers to the convenience of the entire travel process from the starting point to the destination when residents choose public transport as the travel tool. However, there is currently a lack of research on the full process of public transportation travel for residents, especially in mountainous cities with complex terrain and high manual intervention intensity. Taking the central urban area of Chongqing, China as the study area, this research uses geographic information spatial analysis and complex network analysis technology to build a full process accessibility evaluation model for public transport and excavates the distribution law of accessibility in the full process of public transport travel in mountainous cities and its correlation with terrain, walking road density, population density and other influencing factors. The research shows that: (1) The coverage rate of transfer between rail transit and conventional public transportation within 400 meters of the research area reaches 100%; (2) The average proportion of the actual walking area of stations within the study area is only 40.36% of the ideal walking area, with 16.69% of walking routes having a high degree of detour and 11.39% of walking routes having a very serious degree of detour, almost unreachable; (3) The convenience of inter station transfer in the public transportation system within the research area is poor, with a current probability of direct arrival of only 0.84%. The cumulative probability of direct arrival or single transfer arrival is only 9.64%, and the average number of transfers is 2.9. The main transfer stations and core hub stations are few and unevenly distributed, with almost no gradient configuration used for stations with transfer functions, greatly affecting the convenience of the entire process of public transportation travel; (4) There is varying degrees of correlation between the full process accessibility of regional public transportation stations and the four main influencing factors of station location, including altitude, slope, pedestrian density, and population density. Among them, the density of pedestrian roads has the most significant correlation with the full process accessibility of stations, becoming the main factor restricting the convenience of public transportation in mountainous cities, The density of pedestrian roads is mainly constrained by mountain terrain factors such as altitude differences and slopes at the micro scale. The research conclusion can provide scientific basis for the integrated construction and development of public transportation in mountainous cities at both macro and micro scales, guide the adaptation of population and public transportation, and improve the travel sharing rate of public transportation.
Surveillance and Biorational Management of Rugose Spiraling Whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Infesting Coconut to Reduce the Invasion Threat in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md. Mahbubur , Dutta Nirmal Kumar , Sarkar Md Akhtaruzzaman , Nuruzzaman Md , Islam Md Rashedul
Published: January 2024

The Rugose spiraling whitefly (RSW), Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin, is a new invasive pest in Bangladesh that was first reported in May 2019 infesting coconut trees. In this context, the present study was carried out to respond to this pest immediately by evaluating the seasonal incidence of this pest and establishing a suitable management procedure to control it. Seasonal abundance of RSW populations was observed at weekly intervals from January 2021 to December 2022. Seasonal variations have been observed in RSW infestation of coconuts. The RSW populations prevailed throughout the year, peaking in April-May and September-October in both 2021 and 2022. Among different climatic factors, temperature played a significant role in the growth of these pest populations. Of six treatments tested, the chemical insecticide Acetamiprid (Tundra® 50 SP) was most effective, reducing pest numbers by over 80% after initial and follow-up applications. Initial application of bio-pesticides yielded a more modest 44.83-65.98% control, with D-Lemonine (Bio clean® 5% SL) performing best. A second spray of D-Lemonine lowered nymph, puparium, and adult populations by 82.11%, 82.12%, and 83.53% respectively compared to untreated trees. Furthermore, when Acetamiprid and D-Lemonine were used in combination, they demonstrated a high level of efficacy in controlling the RSW. Therefore, implementing a rotation spraying strategy that involves the use of Acetamiprid followed by D-Lemonine can be considered a sustainable management option to combat RSW infestation in coconut trees. This rotation utilizes chemical and organic options while avoiding the overuse of any single method.
Comparison of the efficacy of different models in predicting the progression of Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Qian Jun , Han Anchen , Shi Xinwei , Chen Yuanfang , Gao Yue , Wu Liting , Ji Xinyu , Sun Liu , Shi Yangyang , Yang Yizhou , Xu Ming , Zhu Baoli , Han Lei , Sun Kai
Published: January 2024

Objective
To identify the risk factors associated with the progression of pulmonary hypertension (PH), develop two distinct risk prediction models, and provide valuable insights for clinical management.
Methods
This study employed a retrospective analysis to examine the clinical data of 346 individuals diagnosed with PH by transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). The participants were allocated randomly to either a training set (n = 243) or a validation set (n = 103) at a 7:3 ratio. Subsequently, the individuals were further categorized into the control and case groups according to PH progression. The training set was utilized to perform single- and multifactor logistic regression analysis, as well as random forest feature priority ranking, to determine the most effective predictive variables. Subsequently, logistic regression and random forest models were developed. The performance of both models was evaluated and compared based on the validation set, using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value.
Results
Logistic regression analysis revealed that World Health Organization Function Class (WHO FC), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE)/pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP), right atrial diameter (RAD)/left atrial diameter (LAD), right ventricular end-diastolic diameter (RVDd)/left ventricular end-diastolic diameter (LVDd), main pulmonary artery (MPA), MPA/ascending aorta (AA), MPA/descending aorta (DA), red blood cell distribution width (RDW)-coefficient of variation (RDW-CV), Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR), N-Terminal Pro-B-Type Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) and D-dimer were risk factors for PH progression. Among these, WHO FC, TAPSE/PASP, RVDd/LVDd, MPA/AA, and NT-proBNP were independent risk factors for PH progression. The random forest model identified the top five predictors of PH progression as TAPSE/PASP, MPA/AA, RVDd/LVDd, NT-proBNP, and NLR. The area under the ROC curve (AUC), accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of the logistic regression and random forest model were 0.958 (95% CI: 0.919–0.997) and 0.959 (95% CI: 0.921–0.997), 93.2% and 92.23%, 90.91% and 90.91%, 94.92% and 93.22%, 93.02% and 90.91%, 93.33% and 93.22% respectively.
Conclusions
Both the logistic regression and the random forest model demonstrated significant predictive power for PH progression, providing clinical utility in identifying high-risk patients and implementing effective interventions to prevent PH progression in clinical practice.
Evaluation of right ventricular myocardial properties using systolic myocardial T1 mapping
Authors: Sasaki Yuki , Oka Hideharu , Nakau Kouichi , Shibagaki Yuki , Ito Keita , Imanishi Rina , Shimada Sorachi , Akiho Yuki , Fukao Kazunori , Nakagawa Sadahiro , Iwata Kunihiro , Takahashi Satoru
Published: January 2024

Background: Myocardial properties can be quantitatively evaluated using myocardial T1 values obtained using cardiac magnetic resonance imaging. In terms of myocardial wall thickness, the left ventricular T1 value is easy to measure, but the right ventricular T1 value is difficult. Patients with congenital heart disease often develop right ventricular overload. We aimed to determine whether T1 mapping during systole can be used to evaluate right ventricular myocardial properties.
Methods: T1 mapping was performed at diastole and systole, and the myocardial properties of both ventricles were evaluated in 13 healthy participants (21–26 years old) and 12 patients with right ventricular overload (12–41 years old) who underwent cardiac magnetic resonance imagingexamination at our hospital.
Results: From analysis of left ventricular myocardial T1 values, we found that myocardial T1 values did not change significantly during the cardiac cycle. But, right ventricular T1 values changed between diastole and systole because the right ventricle is affected by blood. Although there was no difference in right ventricular diastolic myocardial T1 values between the patients and volunteers (1346.8 vs. 1347.6 msec, p=0.852), the right ventricular systolic myocardial T1 values was significantly higher in patients than in volunteers (1312.7 vs. 1233.8 msec, p=0.002).
Conclusion: Systolic right ventricular myocardial T1 mapping allows assessment of right ventricular myocardial properties. The right ventricular myocardial systolic T1 value is useful for evaluating myocardial damage due to right ventricular stress and myocardial injury.
Folate deficiency links impaired appetite routing to ovarian dysfunction
Authors: Shaikh Afridi , Choudhary Bharti , Chhatpar Mukund , Fefar Dhaval , Roy Hetal
Published: January 2024

The long-established link between nutrition and reproduction is known to have critical consequences for reproductive function. However, the availability of experimental data on effect of folate deficiency on ovarian health is scarce and uncertain. Our objective was to establish a proof for association between folate deficiency, hormone dynamics, and health of the ovary through in vivo model organism. Folate-deprived female zebrafishes were developed using intraperitoneal administration of methotrexate (MTX) and they were used to study the possible implications of folate deprivation on ovarian health. Changes in the expression of transcripts regulating appetite and ovarian function was assessed by qRT-PCR. ELISA based methods were utilised to quantify and evaluate changes in hormone levels regulating reproductive function. Histology of ovarian tissue was performed to support the study. Folate deprivation resulted in impaired appetite behaviour and alters its regulatory gene expression. Due to folate deficiency, the neuroendocrine function of the brain was affected that resulted in altered reproductive hormone levels. Histological parameter of ovary was performed wherein the follicles are arrested in primary oocyte stage and abundance of scarring of tissue is seen. Furthermore, elevated lipid peroxidation and catalase enzyme activity indicates folate deficiency induced oxidative stress in ovary as one of the responsible mechanisms to aide ovarian dysfunction. Our study provides experiment proof with in vivo folate deficient model of fish that suggests B9 non-availability resulted into loss of appetite and, female gonadal dysfunction, which developed as cumulative effect of deficiency and altered appetite. The intricate interplay between folate deficiency and appetite along with the consequential implications for the synthesis and release of female reproductive hormones, warrant a thorough and in-depth exploration through further research.