bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Feasible Solution for Image Encryption, Restoration, and Colorization Based on the Methods of Weighted Conjugate Gradient, RSA Encryption, and Deep Learning.
Authors: Yuan Gonglin , Zhang Zhao
Published: March 2024

In contemporary society, people are increasingly aware of environmental issues. Coinciding with this development is the arrival of the era of big data, accompanied by significant advances in artificial intelligence. These technologies are increasingly used to collect, systematize and review data to facilitate informed decision-making processes. Ecological image processing stands out as a critical application in this technological field. In the rapid development of deep learning methods, challenges still exist due to the impact of training models on machine performance. In some cases, machine performance is still not ideal. This paper introduces a novel weighted conjugate gradient (WCG) algorithm based on the classic conjugate gradient method, which has better performance in image restoration tasks. Meanwhile, this paper extends the RSA encryption method to the encrypted transmission of the matrix framework to ensure data security during the transmission process. In addition, under the supervision of established machine learning vision models, this paper adopts a penalty function strategy combined with the p-Laplacian operator and manual methods to provide users with enhanced control over manual intervention in grayscale image colorization, thereby enriching Visual fidelity and interpretability of images. The numerical calculation method adopts the WCG algorithm innovatively proposed in this article. Based on the above, the framework proposed in this paper describes a quasi-automatic method for image encryption, transmission, recovery, and colorization. This framework not only ensures that users can intervene and adjust but also maximizes machine execution speed. The framework bridges the gap between fully automated systems and fully manual operating systems, trying to find a balance between convenience and accuracy. At the same time, the Matrix RSA encryption method ensures security during transmission. This framework has significant advantages in applications in professional fields that have specific requirements for accuracy, convenience, and security.
Validity and Power of the Case-Only Approach in Prospective Cohort and Case-Cohort Studies with Time-to-Event Endpoints
Authors: Freitag-Wolf Sandra , Akinloye O Mercy , Dempfle Astrid
Published: March 2024

For genetic epidemiological studies with binary outcomes, the case-only (CO) approach has been shown to be powerful for examining statistical interactions, in particular gene-environment interactions. For time-to-event outcomes, the CO approach has been extended in the context of randomized clinical trials (RCT), but has not yet been investigated in prospective observational data. We explore the CO approach for time-to-event outcomes in scenarios with main effects of different strength (small, moderate) and compare its results with classical Cox proportional hazard and logistic regression models. We use only the earliest observed events (as ‘cases’) in the CO approach and also consider censored events (as ‘controls’ in logistic regression) by a restricted follow-up scheme in a cohort design or a random subsample of these in a case-cohort design. In our simulation study, the CO approach was consistently valid in the cohort settings and had a similar power as the benchmark analyses. In contrast, in the case-cohort design, the CO approach was valid and more powerful only in the scenario with just one main effect. However, in the presence of two moderate main effects, estimators may be biased, with a moderately inflated type I error rate. In a real-world example of a cohort study, the CO design represents an efficient approach that can be applied at an early follow-up time. Under a variety of circumstances, the CO approach is as powerful as the standard models for time-to-event data in the cohort framework, but can be biased in the presence of two main effects in the case-cohort framework.
Alert generation and Vehicle Authenticationin fog environment
Authors: singh Sunakshi , Chaurasiya Vijay Kumar
Published: March 2024

Be it the advancement of infrastructure or the impact of the pandemic, more and more vehicles are added to the system. This has significantly increased traffic density, resulting in traffic jams and sometimes leading to collisions. Therefore concern for effective strategies systems and safety mechanisms for proper traffic management is more indispensable than ever. This paper introduces a lightweight alerting system that functions as a collision identification system, acquiring information about the vehicle. The framework will leverage the advantages of fog computing and notify other on-road vehicles about the collision only after proper authentication. For reducing the false alarm, we will use the sensor to know the level of impact. Additionally, a quick, immediate response is included in the framework, which is intended to call emergency services in order to provide medical aid at the earliest.
Coal Structure Evaluation and Morphological Properties That Affect the Coal Usage in Industries.
Authors: Gaesenngwe Gaesenngwe , Danha Gwiranai , RAGHUPATRUNI PRASAD , MAMVURA TIRIVAVIRI
Published: March 2024

The contemporary research article is central to understanding coal structure evaluation and the morphological development impacting its utilization in different applications. Through Mineral Liberation Analysis (MLA) designs high content phyllosilicates minerals and swelling clay minerals were rationalized to provides a novel insight into enhanced coal beneficiation and the benefits of coal by-product re-utilization progressions that encourage safer environments and economic sustainability. This work commences with collection of five (5) different coal samples from the central district mine in Botswana and chemical characterization via Thermogravimetric coal analysis, x-ray fluorescence spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and the Hardgrove Grindability Index testing that quantify coal material hardness and fracture toughness. The results showed sulfur and phosphorus inclusions in all samples complemented through sphalerite mineral phases (Zn, Fe)S and the coal morphology stimulated the material fracture toughness and hardness properties by influential mineral amalgams intrinsic to the Botswana central district coal maceral such as aluminum oxides (Al2O3), silicate (SiO2), calcites (CaO), Iron oxide (Fe2O3), potassium feldspars (K−AlSi3O8), albite (Na−AlSi3O8), and anorthite (Ca−Al2Si2O8) compounds in alkali feldspars which are predominantly group I and II carriers were perceived in substantial quantities. The coal industry has attracted much industrial attention by supply of high energy potent coal material and coal-by products to manufacturing foundations producing cement, ceramic tiles, paving bricks and material synthesis and will continue to supply other economic sectors in the conceivable future. Nevertheless, environmental concerns consequential to coal beneficiation are pressing issues requiring transdisciplinary innovations through investigations and technological practices that encourage the elimination of toxins and hazardous compounds from coal products therefore holistically generating sustainable and renewable resource for the future.
Highly Efficient Circularly Polarized Near-infrared Phosphorescence in Both Solution and Aggregate
Authors: Tang Ben Zhong , Liu Dan , Wang Wenjin , Alam Parvej , Yang Zhan , Wu Kaiwen , Zhu Lixun , Xiong Yu , Chang Shuai , Liu Yong , Wu Bo , Wu Qian , Qiu Zijie , Zhao Zheng
Published: March 2024

Circularly polarized phosphorescence (CPP) is a spin-forbidden radiative process with chiroptical activity. The CPP mechanism is far from comprehensively understood, mainly due to the limited examples of efficient triplet emission from small chiral organic molecules with well-defined structures. Herein, a pair of chiral enantiomers R/S-BBTI is reported, featuring the highly distorted spiral ring-locked heteroaromatics with heavy iodine atoms. These chiral molecules emit NIR phosphorescence and exhibit considerable high dissymmetry factors up to 0.013 with an efficiency of 4.2% and a lifetime of 119 µs in dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solution after ultraviolet irradiation. Their crystals show efficient CPP with 7.0% quantum efficiency and a lifetime of 166 µs. Extensive experimental chiroptical investigations combined with theoretical calculations reveal an efficient spin-flip process that modulates the electron and magnetic transition dipole moments to enhance CPP performance. Moreover, the phosphorescence of R/S-BBTI is oxygen-sensitive and photoactivated in DMSO. Therefore, R/S-BBTI can be applied for hypoxia imaging in cells and tumors, expanding the scope of CPP applications.
The Effect of Sand-Crumb Rubber Mixture Treatment on the Seismic Response of a Low-Rise Building Located on Liquefiable Soil
Authors: Tareghian Benyamin , Baradaran Mohammad Saleh , Akhtarpour Ali
Published: March 2024

One of the most effective measures to reduce earthquake risks in high-seismic areas is to reduce the input forces caused by earthquakes to the structure. The properties of rubber materials in geotechnical projects are energy absorption, dynamic deformation change as well as damping of latent energy in loads, high shear modulus and damping ratio, easy access and their economic nature. In this research, with finite difference modeling, the effect of using sand- crumb rubber layer on the seismic behavior of the model has been obtained. In the following, by changing the thickness and depth of the sand-crumb rubber layer, the seismic behavior such as floor displacement and internal forces have been investigated. This research numerically models liquefaction (UBCsand with FLAC) and predicts the effects of the sand-crumb rubber layer of different thicknesses under the foundation and evaluates the structure's damage and settlement interacting with the soil by validating the numerical model with the laboratory model and calibrating it with different ratios. The results show that liquefaction, pore water pressure excess ratio and soil settlement will be significantly reduced with the presence of sand-crumb rubber layer, and also the base shear has shown an increase, but the structural damage is reduced.
Phthalocyanine Aggregates as “Semiconductor-like” Photocatalysts for Hypoxic-Tumor Photodynamic Immunotherapy
Authors: Li Xingshu , Liu Hao , Li Ziqing , Zhang Xiaojun , Xu Yihui , Tang Guoyan , Wang Zhaoxin , Zhao Yuan-Yuan , Ke Mei-Rong , Zheng Bi-Yuan , Huang Shuping , Huang Jian-Dong
Published: March 2024

Photodynamic immunotherapy (PIT) has emerged as a promising approach for efficient eradication of primary tumors and inhibition of tumor metastasis. However, most of photosensitizers (PSs) for PIT exhibit notable oxygen dependence. Herein, a concept emphasizing on transition from molecular PSs into “semiconductor-like” photocatalysts is proposed, which converts the PSs from type II photoreaction to efficient type I photoreaction. Detailed mechanism studies reveal that the nanostructured phthalocyanine aggregate (NanoNMe) generates radical ion pairs through a photoinduced symmetry breaking charge separation process, achieving charge separation through a “self-substrate” approach and leading to exceptional photocatalytic charge transfer activity. Additionally, a reformed phthalocyanine aggregate (NanoNMO) is fabricated to improve the stability in physiological environments. NanoNMO showcases outstanding photocytotoxicities under both normoxic and hypoxic conditions and exhibits remarkable tumor targeting ability. Notably, the photodynamic effect mediated by NanoNMO not only triggers the systemic anti-tumor immune response but also synergizes with PD-1 antibodies to enhance the infiltration of cytotoxic T lymphocytes into tumor sites, leading to the effective inhibition of tumor growth.
Going global: An Analysis of UK Medical Schools’ International Collaborations
Authors: Haruna-Cooper Lois , Rashid Mohammed Ahmed , Kelly James , Gardee Ameerah
Published: March 2024

Objectives: Given that the existing literature on international medical education collaborations is dominated by North American case studies, this study sought to identify and describe such collaborations hosted by UK medical schools.
Methods: UK medical school webpages were identified from the General Medical Council (GMC) and were methodically searched for any information about international collaborations focussed on undergraduate medical education.
Results: Of 37 medical schools formally listed by the GMC, 12 provided information about their international collaborations, which broadly fitted into three main categories: knowledge exchange collaborations focussed on medical school capacity building; joint study programmes where students complete part of their medical studies in the UK; offshore medical campuses or joint medical degrees with an overseas university.
Conclusion: This study describes the current landscape of international collaborations that UK medical schools are engaged in, demonstrating that these collaborations vary from comprehensive partnerships to much more limited relationships. Despite the sparse academic literature about international collaborations in medical schools, especially in the UK context, this study highlights a significant degree of activity that warrants further investigation to examine consequences for students, teachers, and institutions involved on both sides of these relationships.
The Impact of Leadership Member Exchange on Innovation Behaviour Perceived by University Lecturers: The Mediation Roles of Psychological Empowerment and Psychological Safety
Authors: ZHU Yanheng , TSAI Kuan-Chun , Gao Yuan
Published: March 2024

This study delves into the influence of Leadership-Member Exchange (LMX) on innovation behaviour among university lecturers in Chengdu, a key educational and urban development hub in Western China. It particularly scrutinises the mediating roles of psychological empowerment and psychological safety within this context. With its blend of traditional and contemporary educational practices amid rapid urbanisation, Chengdu offers a distinctive backdrop for exploring the dynamics of academic leadership and its impact on innovation. Employing a quantitative methodology, the research utilises structural equation modelling and regression analysis to dissect data gathered from lecturers across various universities in Chengdu. The aim is to unravel how LMX, defined by the quality of leader-member interactions and relationships, affects lecturers’ propensity for innovation. The study probes the extent to which psychological empowerment and psychological safety serve as mediators in this relationship. By situating the research in Chengdu’s dynamic environment, notable for its unique educational landscape, the study substantially contributes to the literature on leadership and innovation in higher education settings. The findings are poised to offer critical insights for university administrators and policymakers and emphasise leadership approaches that nurture innovation through empowerment and a sense of safety among academic staff.
Cbl-b E3 ligase-mediated neddylation and activation of PARP-1 induces vascular calcification
Authors: Kook Hyun , Kwon Duk-Hwa , Shin Sera , Nam Yoon Seok , Choe Nakwon , Lim Yongwoon , Jeong Anna , Lee Yun-Gyeong , Kim Young-Kook
Published: March 2024

Aims: Vascular calcification (VC) refers to the accumulation of mineral deposits on the walls of arteries and veins, and it is closely associated with increased mortality in cardiovascular disease, particularly among high-risk patients with diabetes and chronic kidney diseases (CKD). Neuronal precursor cell-expressed developmentally downregulated protein 8 (NEDD8) is an ubiquitin-like protein that plays a pivotal role in various cellular functions, primarily through its conjugation to target proteins and subsequent relay of biological signals. However, the role of NEDDylation in VC has not been investigated.
Methods and Results: In our study, we observed that MLN4924, an inhibitor of the NEDD8-activating E1 enzyme, effectively impedes progress of VC. By LC-MS/MS analysis, we identified that poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP-1) is subjected to NEDD8 conjugation, leading to an increase in PARP-1 activity during VC. Subsequently, we uncovered that the PARP-1 NEDDylation is mediated by the E3 ligase Cbl proto-oncogene B (Cbl-b) and is reversed by the NEDD8-specific protease 1 (NEDP-1) during VC. Furthermore, Cbl-b C373 peptide effectively mitigates the inactive form of E3 ligase activity of Cbl-b, ultimately preventing VC.
Conclusions: These findings provide compelling evidence that the NEDD8-dependent activation of PARP-1 represents a novel mechanism underlying vascular calcification and suggests a promising new therapeutic target for VC.
Antibiotic Resistance Genes in bacteria from Anthropogenically Impacted Indian River Ecosystems
Authors: Naznine Fahmi , Ansari Mohd Ikram , Aafreen Ushba , Singh Katyayani , Verma Ronit , Dey Mansi , Malik Yashpal Singh , Khubaib Mohd
Published: March 2024

River ecosystems serve as a significant habitat and water sources for diverse organisms, including humans. An important environmental and public health concern is the increase in antibiotic-resistant bacteria (ARBs) and genes (ARGs) in aquatic ecosystems brought about by excessive pollutant flow. The research highlighted the potential implications of wastewater from treatment plants, acting as a reservoir for multidrug-resistant bacteria. The analysis of the collected Gomti and Ganga rivers water samples showed high antibiotic resistant bacteria in both the rivers. The ARBs percentages in these rivers revealed high resistance, highest with ampicillin (100%), followed by cefotaxime (96.4, 63.1%), erythromycin (52.6, 57.8%), amikacin (68.4, 50.8%), tetracycline (47.3, 54.3%), nalidixic acid (47.3, 45.6%), streptomycin (68.4, 67.2%), gentamycin (43.8, 35%), chloramphenicol (26.3, 33.3,%), neomycin (49.1, 29.8%), and ciprofloxacin (24.5, 7.01%). Further, antibiotic resistance genes in Gomti and Ganga water samples disclose distinctive patterns, including resistance to ermB (25, 40%), tetM (25, 33.3%), ampC (44.4, 40%), and cmlA1 (16.6%). The presence of ARGs in the river water shows threat of transferring these genes to native environmental bacteria. To protect the environment and public health, constant research is necessary to fully understand the extent and consequences of antibiotic resistance in these aquatic habitats.
Psychological Factors and Family Communication in Children with Elimination Disorders: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ebrahimi Mehdi , Nasab S. M. Hossein Mousavi , Hosseinpour Mehrdad , Moghadam Noshirvan Khezri
Published: March 2024

Objective
This comparative study aims to assess psychological symptoms and family communication in children with elimination disorders in comparison to their healthy counterparts.
Methods
Utilizing a quantitative approach with a comparative design, the study employed the General Health Questionnaire, Dyadic Adjustment Scale, Child Behavior Inventory, and Mother-Child Relationship Evaluation Questionnaire. The sample consisted of 25 children with urinary incontinence, 24 with fecal incontinence (treated at Imam Hossein and Milad Hospitals), and 23 healthy children, selected through convenience sampling.
Results
While there were no significant differences in general health and marital satisfaction among the groups, children with urinary and fecal incontinence exhibited higher intensity of behavior problems. Additionally, specific components of the mother-child relationship, including acceptance, overprotection, and rejection, were significantly elevated in the incontinence groups compared to the controls.
Conclusion
This study underscores the potential benefits of health measures, awareness programs, and family counseling in preventing socio-functional and emotional consequences in children with elimination disorders. Despite no significant differences in general health and marital satisfaction, timely treatment interventions are crucial to address behavior problems and enhance specific aspects of the mother-child relationship. Such interventions have the potential to improve the physical and mental well-being of both affected children and their parents.
Targeted data augmentation for improving modelrobustness against systematic bias
Authors: Mikołajczyk-Bareła Agnieszka , Ferlin Maria , Grochowski Michał
Published: March 2024

The paper proposes a new and effective bias mitigation method called Targeted Data Augmentation (TDA). Since removingbiases is a tedious, always difficult and, on the other hand, not necessarily an effective approach the authors propose toskillfully insert them, instead. To show the efficiency and to validate the proposed approach, two representative and verydiverse datasets: the dataset of clinical skin lesions and the dataset of male and female faces, were selected to serve as thebenchmarks. The existing biases were first manually examined, identified, and annotated. Then, the use of CounterfactualBias Insertion, has provided the confirmation that the biases like the frame, ruler, and glasses, strongly affect the models. Tomake the models more robust against them, Targeted Data Augmentation was used: in short, the samples were modifiedduring training by randomly inserting biases. The proposed method resulted in a significant decrease in bias measures, morespecifically, from a two-fold to more than 50-fold improvement after training with TDA, with a negligible increase in the error rate.
SHEP1 alleviates cardiac ischemia reperfusion injury via targeting G3BP1 to regulate macrophage infiltration and inflammation
Authors: Ge Junbo , Xin Zhong , Li Hua , Tingwen Gao , Zhenyang Guo , Weng Xinyu , Yikai Cui , Peng Li , Wei Luo , Tao Hu , Zhen Dong , Peng Wei , Yun Cai , Yijing Lu , Rifeng Gao
Published: March 2024

Background: The macrophage-associated inflammation response plays an important role in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI). During MIRI, the role and molecular mechanism of SHEP1 regulating macrophage remains unclear.
Methods: By co-cultured with hypoxia reoxygenation cardiomyocytes in vitro, macrophages with SHEP1 knockout or overexpression were detected cell migration ability and related proinflammatory factors; and the molecular network regulated by SHEP1 was identified through transcriptome-wide analysis; then its target molecules were verified by co-immunoprecipitation method. In vivo, an ischemia-reperfusion heart model was established to observe the changes in cardiac function, cardiac tissue injury and inflammation of macrophage-specific deficiency of SHEP1 mice, and to analyze the improvement of cardiac function by administrating inhibitors for targeted molecules of SHEP1.
Findings: The expression of SHEP1 was increased in macrophages co-cultured with hypoxia-reoxygenated cardiomyocytes and within ischemia-reperfusion injured myocardium at the early stage of injury. Cell migration and inflammation were also enhanced in SHEP1 knock-out macrophages and macrophage-specific deficiency of SHEP1 mice under MIRI, which further led to deteriorated cardiac injury and cardiac function in vivo. RNA-sequencing and co-immunoprecipitation mass spectrometry showed that macrophage-derived SHEP1 competitively bound to G3BP1 to suppress inflammation via the MAPK pathway. And administrating inhibitor of G3BP1 could improve cardiac function in macrophage-specific deficiency of SHEP1 mice under MIRI.
Conclusions: SHEP1 targeted G3BP1 to antagonize cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury by inhibiting infiltration and proinflammatory responses of macrophages, which provided a potential and clinically significant therapeutic target for MIRI.
Tailoring Schottky Barriers and Active Sites in Bi-metallic Cluster Mesoporous Carbon Nitride Heterostructures nanocomposite for Hydrogen Evolution with In-situ insights
Authors: Rao V Navakoteswara , hukwon Kwon , Nagaveni M , Ravi P , Lee Yonghee , Lee Seong Jae , Kim Kyeounghak , Shankar M V , Yoo Jung Ho , Ahn Chiwon , Kim San-jae , Yang Jun-Mo
Published: March 2024

The advancement of photocatalysis relies on the development of novel hetero-structured materials with unique architectures. In this study, we successfully synthesized a hetero-structured g-C3N4 (GCN) material with a distinctive surface modification. To further enhance its photocatalytic performance, we optimized the Ag-Ni concentration to maximize the active sites for hydrogen evolution reactions. By using systematic physicochemical characterizations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we elucidated the pivotal role of graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4) in facilitating the formation of an efficient charge transfer channel and promoting the effective generation and separation of photo-generated carriers. From the DFT calculations, we also demonstrated that the Ag-Ni nanoparticles provide more efficient active sites than Ni nanoparticles for water splitting and hydrogen evolution and In-situ TEM exploration. Furthermore, the hetero microstructure consisting of thin g-C3N4 nano scrolls has a crucial role in shortening the migration distance of the carriers, effectively suppressing carrier recombination. Consequently, these extraordinary characteristics resulted in a superior solar light-driven photocatalytic H2 evolution rate of 2507 µmol h− 1 g− 1, surpassing the rate achieved by bulk g-C3N4 by a remarkable 18.6-folds. Moreover, the apparent quantum efficiency of this hetero-structured material reached an exceptional value of 1.6% under a 1.5 G air mass filter.
Sewage reclamation process as multifactorial public health risk concern: a longitudinal study.
Authors: Cuevas-Ferrando Enric , Girón-Guzmán Inés , Sánchez-Alberola Santiago , Falcó Irene , Díaz-Reolid Azahara , Puchades-Colera Pablo , Ballesteros Sandra , Pérez-Cataluña Alba , Coll José María , Núñez Eugenia , Fabra Maía José , López-Rubio Amparo , Sánchez Gloria
Published: March 2024

This year-long research analysed emerging risks in influent, effluent wastewaters and biosolids from six wastewater treatment plants in Spain's Valencian Region. Specifically, it focused on human enteric and respiratory viruses, bacterial and viral faecal contamination indicators, extended spectrum beta-lactamases-producing Escherichia coli and antibiotic resistance genes. Additionally, particles and microplastics in biosolid and wastewater samples were assessed. Human enteric viruses were prevalent in influent wastewater, with limited post-treatment reduction. Wastewater treatment effectively eliminated respiratory viruses, except for low levels of SARS-CoV-2 in effluent and biosolid samples, suggesting minimal public health risk. Antibiotic resistance genes and microplastics were persistently found in effluent and biosolids, thus indicating treatment inefficiencies and potential environmental dissemination. This multifaced research sheds light on diverse contaminants present after water reclamation, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health in wastewater management. It underscores the need for a One Health approach to address the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Transthyretin amyloidosis prevalence and characteristics in Korean patients with heart failure with preserved or mildly reduced ejection fractions
Authors: Kim Se-Eun , Lee Sang-Hyup , Oh Jaewon , Lee Chan Joo , Hwang Sang Hyun , Kang Won Jun , Kang Seok-Min
Published: March 2024

The diagnosis and awareness of transthyretin amyloidosis cardiomyopathy (ATTR-CM) in heart failure with left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) > 40% remains under-recognized. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and characteristics of ATTR-CM in patients with heart failure with LVEF > 40%. Patients with LVEF > 40% and maximal left ventricular wall thickness (MWT) > 10 mm who underwent bone scintigraphy were retrospectively investigated. Patients with a definite cause of heart failure were excluded. ATTR-CM was diagnosed when grade 2 or 3 myocardial uptake was observed on scintigraphy. Among 97 patients (male, 62.5%; median age, 69 years), 13 (13.4%) were diagnosed with ATTR-CM (wild type, 69.2%; hereditary type, 30.8%). Age or biomarker levels did not differ significantly; however, all patients with ATTR-CM were male. The ATTR-CM group had a significantly higher prevalence of polyneuropathy or carpal tunnel syndrome than the non-ATTR-CM group, accompanied by a longer PR interval, thicker MWT, larger left atrial volume index, and higher E/e’. Accordingly, ATTR was present in a substantial number, particularly among men. Clinicians should suspect ATTR when a male patient exhibits neurologic symptoms, diastolic dysfunction, and a long PR interval.
Reduction in Chemotherapy Relative Dose Intensity Decreases Overall Survival of Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy in Patients with Locally Advanced Esophageal Carcinoma
Authors: Jiang Li , Zhu Jie , Chen Xue , Wang Yi , Wu Lei , Wan Gang , Han Yongtao , Leng Xuefeng , Zhang Jun , Peng Lin , Wang Qifeng
Published: March 2024

Background
Many patients undergo dose reduction or early termination of chemotherapy to reduce chemoradiotherapy-related toxicity, which may increase their risk of survival. However, this strategy may result in underdosing patients with locally advanced esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (LA-ESCC). This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the relative dose intensity (RDI) and survival outcomes in patients with LA-ESCC.
Methods
This retrospective study assessed patients with LA-ESCC (cT2N + M0, cT3-4NanyM0) receiving neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NCRT) with curative-intent esophagectomy. The patients received 2 courses of paclitaxel plus carboplatin (TC) combination radiotherapy prior to undergoing surgery. During NCRT, RDI was computed, defined as the received dose as a percentage of the standard dose, and the incidence of dose delays was estimated (≥ 7 days in any course cycle). The best RDI cutoff value (0.7) was obtained using ROC curve. The Kaplan-Meier survival curves were compared using the log-rank test, the treatment effect was measured using hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI).
Results
We included 132 patients in this study, divided into RDI < 0.7 and RDI ≥ 0.7 groups using cut-off value of 0.7. RDI grade was an independent prognostic factor for OS. Baseline demographic and clinical characteristics were well balanced between the groups. There was no evidence that patients with RDI < 0.7 experienced less toxicity or those with RDI ≥ 0.7 resulted in more toxicity. However, patients with RDI < 0.7 who were given reduced doses had a worse overall survival [HR 2.058, 95% CI 1.13–3.74, P = 0.015]. The risk of a lower RDI increased with a longer dose delay time (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The RDI below 0.7 for avoiding chemoradiotherapy toxicity administration led to a reduction in the dose intensity of treatment and decreased overall survival.
Differential Effects of Intrinsic- Versus Extrinsic-First Corrective Exercise Programs on Morphometric Outcomes and Navicular Drop in Pediatric Pes Planus
Authors: Ketabchi Jafar , Seidi Foad , Haghighat Shila , Falsone Sue , Moghadas-Tabrizi Yousef , Khoshroo Fatemeh
Published: March 2024

Although the connection between muscular strength and flatfoot condition is well-established, the impact of corrective exercises on these muscles remains inadequately explored. This study aimed to assess the impact of intrinsic- versus extrinsic-first corrective exercise programs on muscle morphometry and navicular drop in boys with flexible flatfoot. Twenty-five boys aged 10–12 with flexible flatfoot participated, undergoing a 12-week corrective exercise program, with a shift in focus at six weeks. Ultrasound imaging measured muscle thickness and cross-sectional area (CSA), and the navicular drop test assessed flatfoot severity. The results demonstrated a significant interaction between exercise type and sequencing on muscle morphometry. Initiating with intrinsic exercises led to sustained improvement, even after transitioning to extrinsic exercises, while extrinsic-first exercises caused deterioration in intrinsic muscle morphology, which was recovered after transitioning to intrinsic exercises. Statistical analysis revealed significant improvements in muscle thickness and CSA over time, particularly when initiating intrinsic exercises first. The intrinsic-first group also exhibited a more pronounced reduction in navicular drop. In conclusion, initiating corrective exercises with intrinsic muscles proved more effective in improving foot muscle morphometry and reducing navicular drop in boys with flatfoot. Therefore, commencing correction with intrinsic muscle exercises is recommended before progressing to extrinsic muscle exercises.
Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials (IRCT20210818052223N1) on 2021-09-08
Safety and Efficacy of Platelet-rich Plasma Injection for Treatment of Erectile Dysfunction: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Ragheb Ahmed M , Lotfy Amr M. , Fahmy Mohamed , Elmarakbi Akram A
Published: March 2024

Background
Affected sexual relationships have an effect on both men's and women's quality of life (QoL). Because of their ability to aid in tissue healing and vascular remodeling, platelet-derived therapies are becoming more and more popular in a variety of medical and surgical fields. The purpose of this research is to assess the safety and effectiveness of treating patients having erectile dysfunction (ED) with platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections.
Patients and Methods:
A prospective, double-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled study had been conducted to evaluate patients suffering from ED in Urology outpatient clinics at Beni-Suef University Hospital in Egypt. 52 participants with mild to moderate ED were divided into two groups: group A, who received three PRP penile injections, and group B, who received three saline injections, 9 ml for each injection site.
Results
A month after the last injection, the PRP group's IIEF was 16.12 ± 1.25, while the placebo group's was 15.99 ± 1.21 (p = 0.683). Following a 3-month period, the IIEF for the PRP group was 16.44 ± 1.17, while the placebo group's was 16.31 ± 1.06 (p value = 0.653). Following a 6-month period, the IIEF for the PRP group was 16.35 ± 1.45, while the placebo group's was 16.23 ± 1.19 (p value = 0.727). In terms of IIEF, there was no significant difference between the two groups following one, three, and six months of treatment.
Conclusion
In brief, our research revealed no data to support the application of PRP injections in the management of mild to moderate ED.
Developmental Regression in Children: A Scoping Review of Definitions and Measures
Authors: Furley Kirsten , Sindhu Vishnu Priya Mohanakumar , Brignell Amanda , Williams Katrina
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND Developmental regression in children is a concerning symptom as may be an early indication of a neurodevelopmental or neurodegenerative condition or a developmental epileptic encephalopathy. The heterogeneity of conditions that feature developmental regression, and the absence of a universally accepted definition or approach to measuring regression impedes consistent early recognition. Understanding what definitions and measures are used in studies focused on developmental regression in children is a crucial first step towards developing consistency in health care and research.METHODS A scoping review of definitions and measures used for developmental regression was conducted searching Medline, Embase, Cochrane and Psych Info databases. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews guidelines were followed.RESULTS Of 17374 potential publications, 164 were included. Four condition groups were identified through thematic analysis. These were grouped as Neurodevelopmental (n = 121); Progressive Neurodegenerative (n = 19); Developmental Epileptic Encephalopathies (n = 5); and Genetic conditions (n = 19). Collectively, most studies (83.5%, n = 137) used an operational definition that specified type of skills lost, but less than half of studies specified age of developmental regression onset (39.6.%, n = 65), or duration of skills loss (43.3%, n = 71). Measures to assess developmental regression were inconsistently used and only 3% (n = 5) of studies used a developmental regression specific tool. Nearly half (42.7%, n = 70) used study specific measures and 22% (n = 36) used the Autism Diagnostic Interview-Revised as a single measure.CONCLUSIONS Developmental regression is inconsistently defined and measured. Given the heterogeneity of conditions that can feature developmental regression, there is need for consideration of a definition that can be broadly applied at the time of regression. A consistent approach will enhance research rigor, collaboration potential and advance timely clinical care.
Evaluating the Effect of Noisy Thermal Images On the Detection of Early Breast Cancer Using Deep Learning
Authors: Husaini Mohammed Abdulla Al , Habaebi Mohamed Hadi , Elsheikh Elfatih A.A. , Islam Md Rafiqul , Suliman F. M. , Husaini Yousuf Nasser AL
Published: March 2024

Breast cancer remains a leading cause of mortality among women globally. There were techniques that have been developed to enhance early detection, among which thermal imaging has emerged as a promising modality capable of identifying potential signs of breast cancer in its early stages. In addition, Thermal images provide valuable pixel-level information by capturing temperature variations between healthy and cancerous tissues. However, the susceptibility of these thermal images to noise poses a challenge to the diagnostic accuracy in early stages. This research aims to assess the influence of various types of noise on performance of recently developed different deep learning models designed for early breast cancer detection. In addition, a comprehensive analysis was conducted using a substantial database to assess the impact of noise on the models' efficacy. Also, encompasses different categories of noise characterized by distinct mean and variance values ranging from 0.01 to 0.09. The findings reveal that the introduction of different types of noise, albeit within a small range of mean and variance values, adversely affects the performance of deep learning models. It shows that these filters play a pivotal role in enhancing the accuracy of classification. Moreover, the results show that salt and pepper noise, varied between 0.1 and 0.3, significantly impacted the accuracy of inception MV4, reducing it from 100–51.58%, without adding filters in pre-processing. Additionally, the introduction of variance in multiplicative noise from 0.2 to 0.8, demonstrated an effect on classification accuracy only at noise levels of 0.7 (89%) and 0.8 (43%). Moreover, the results show that performance metrics for proposed method were accuracy of 99.82%, sensitivity of 0.996, specificity of 1, precision of 1, NPV of 0.997, FNR of 0.004, LRN of 0.004, AUC of 0.998, EER of 0.002, and F1 score of 0.998, but FPR of 0. In conclusion, findings underscore the significance of refining both noise mitigation strategies and preprocessing techniques to advance reliability and accuracy of thermal imaging as a diagnostic tool in breast cancer detection in early stages.
The prevalence of pre-diabetes and diabetes in people with and without past history of COVID-19 in northeastern Nigeria
Authors: Stephen Roland , Tyndal Jennifer , Hsu Vivian , Sun Jing , Umaru Nura , Olumoh Jamiu , Adegboye Oyelola , Owobi Olah U. , Brown Todd T.
Published: March 2024

Background
An increased risk of diabetes mellitus (DM) after COVID-19 has been reported in the United States, Europe, and Asia. The burden of COVID-related DM has not been described in Africa, where the overall risk of DM has been increasing rapidly. Our objective was to compare the prevalence of pre-DM and DM in Nigerian individuals with a history of COVID-19 to individuals without known COVID-19 infection.
Methods
We identified 256 individuals with a past medical history of COVID-19 with no history of pre-DM or DM and 256 individuals without a history of COVID-19 or pre-DM/DM. Participants were categorized as pre-DM (fasting capillary glucose 100–125 mg/dL) or DM (fasting capillary glucose ≥ 126 mg/dL). We used multivariate multinomial logistic regression to determine the odds of pre-DM and DM in those with and without a history of COVID-19 after adjustment for age, gender, the presence of hypertension, physical activity, central adiposity, and family history of DM.
Results
Compared to the control group, those with a history of COVID-19 had a similar median age (38 vs 40 years, p = 0.84), had a higher proportion of men (63% vs 49%), and had a lower prevalence of central adiposity (waist: hip ratio ≥ 0.90 for males and WHR ≥ 0.85 for females) (48% vs 56.3%, p = 0.06). Of the 256 with a history of COVID-19, 44 (17%) required inpatient care. The median (interquartile range) time interval between COVID-19 diagnosis and the glycaemic assessment was 19 (14, 24) months. Pre-DM prevalence was 27% in the post-COVID-19 group and 4% in the control group, whereas the prevalence of DM was 7% in the post-COVID-19 group and 2% in the control group. After multivariable adjustment, the odds of pre-DM were 8.12 (95% confidence interval (CI): 33.98, 16.58; p < 0.001) higher, and the odds of DM were 3.97 (95% CI: 1.16, 13.63) higher in those with a history of COVID-19 compared to controls.
Conclusion
Previous COVID-19 was found to be a risk factor for prevalent pre-diabetes and diabetes mellitus in Nigeria. More intensive screening for DM in those with a history of COVID-19 should be considered.
Behavior, Failure Analysis, and Effectiveness of Mechanical Stress Improvement Process in Residual Stress Relaxations in Butt-Welded Austenitic Piping Using a Numerical Simulation Approach
Authors: Zeghida Chouaib , Guedri Abdelmoumene , Allaoui Abdelhalim , Tlili Samira , Belyamna Mohammed Amine , Suleiman Rami K. , meliani mohammed hadj
Published: March 2024

The utilization of the Mechanical Stress Improvement Process (MSIP) is a widely employed technique to improve the behavior and the failure analysis in nuclear power plants. Its purpose is to effectively prevent stress corrosion cracking by eliminating residual tensile stresses present in weldments. This approach serves to impede the formation of cracks and decelerate the advancement of existing failures in piping systems. Consequently, favorable compressive stresses are created along the inner surface of the pipe near the weld, including molten and heat-affected metal zones. To assess the efficacy of MSIP in reducing stress concentrations and enhancing structural integrity, multiple cases were evaluated via numerical simulations in this study. Moreover, the dimensions and placement of the MSIP tool were discussed, with the optimal position and width of the clamp being determined to be 30 mm from the weld line (WL) and 75 mm, respectively. The results of this study indicate that the WL region manifests significantly high compressive stresses, which gradually diminish within a 10 mm distance on each side of the WL.
A novel CFD based method for assessing the coronary microvascular dysfunction: combining coronary angiography and routine fractional flow reserve Running Title: CFD based method for assessing the CMD
Authors: Xie Xinzhou , Zhao Shuai , Chen Yan , Yu Tiantong , Xie Songyun , Zhu Boda , Wei Zhihong , Wang Jiayi , Pu Wenjun , Geng Min , Zou Yiming , Hu Wentao , Liu Haolin , Ma Bingqi , Han Peng , Li Xiang , Li Guoquan , Yang Li , Wang Wei , Li Chengxiang , Gao Haokao , Lian Kun
Published: March 2024

Background
A novel computational fluid dynamics (CFD) based method was proposed for the measurement of intracoronary mean flow rate (Q) and absolute microvascular resistance (AMR) by combining coronary angiography and routine fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurement. The aim of this study is to explore the potential of the proposed method to assess the presence of coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD).
Methods
Patients without hemodynamically significant coronary artery stenosis or those after a successful PCI were enrolled. Rest SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) was employed as evidence for assessing the presence of CMD. Based on the sum rest score of target vessel (SRSTV), patients were divided into normal MPI group (SRSTV ≤ 1) and abnormal MPI group (SRSTV > 1). Q and AMR were obtained with a CFD based method during rest and hyperemia condition, and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analyses were performed for discriminating patients with normal MPI and with abnormal MPI.
Results
A total of 57 patients with 61 target vessels were investigated. Based on SRSTV, 22 patients (38.6%) with 23 target vessels (37.7%) were associated with abnormal MPI. Compared with abnormal MPI group, the AMR was significantly lower in normal MPI group (1.97 ± 1.50 mmHg·s/ml vs 3.41 ± 2.30 mmHg·s/ml, p = 0.011), and the Q was significant higher in normal MPI group (0.94 ± 70 mmHg·s/ml vs 0.56 ± 0.50 mmHg·s/ml, p = 0.025). According to ROC curve analysis, the ROC-AUC of Q and AMR for discriminating normal MPI and abnormal MPI was 0.720(95% CI: 0.591–0.828, p = 0.001) and 0.731(95% CI: 0.602–0.836, p = 0.001).
Conclusions
The new CFD based method provides an easy and accurate way to measure the intracoronary flow rate and absolute microvascular resistance, and constitutes a new opportunity for assessing the presence of CMD.
Upregulation of interferon signaling predicts sustained complete remission in pediatric AML patients
Authors: Cugno Chiara , Sherif Shimaa , Ali Aesha , Rinchai Darawan , Elanbari Mohammed , Kizhakayil Dhanya , Toufiq Mohammed , Vempalli Fazulur , Mina Tommaso , Comoli Patrizia , Ghias Kulsoom , Fadoo Zehra , Herrera Sheanna , Lachica Che-Ann , Dason Blessing , Ejaz Anila , Saleh Ayman , Deola Sara , Bedognetti Davide
Published: March 2024

The immunological composition of the microenvironment has shown relevance for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy in solid tumors, while it remains underexplored in acute leukemias. In this study, we investigated the significance of the acute myeloid leukemia (AML) bone marrow microenvironment in predicting chemosensitivity and long-term remission outcomes in pediatric patients. To this aim, we analyzed 32 non-promyelocytic pediatric AML patients at diagnosis using the NanoString PanCancer IO 360 assay and RNA-Sequencing and we validated our findings in the online available TARGET AML pediatric dataset. A short signature of 3 Interferon (IFN)-related genes (GBP1, PARP12, TRAT1) significantly distinguished chemosensitive diseases and stratified patients assigned to standard risk group, as per current treatment protocols, into 2 groups: patients with a high enrichment of the 3 genes at diagnosis had a significantly longer overall survival compared with patients with a low enrichment.
The leukemia microenvironment associated with this signature showed a contextual enhancement of TH1/cytotoxic/NK-related pathways. Our results demonstrate the importance of immune response in the tumor microenvironment of pediatric AML and provide tools for a more refined stratification of pediatric patients otherwise categorized as “standard-risk” and as such, lacking adequate risk-oriented therapeutic strategies. Moreover, they offer a promising guide to tackle immune pathways and potentially exploit immune-targeted therapies.