bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution characteristics of micromechanics provides insights into the microstructure of pharmaceutical tablets fabricated by bimodal mixtures
Authors: Zhao Mengtao , Luo Anqi , Zhou Yu , Liu Zeng , Wang Yuting , Luo Linxiu , Jiang Yanling , Tang Jincao , Lu Zheng , Guan Tianbing , Chen Libo , Sun Huimin , Dai Chuanyun
Published: August 2023

This research focuses on the evolution of mechanical behavior of bimodal mixtures undergoing compaction and diametrical compression. The clusters were built and discrete element modeling (DEM) was used to investigate the densification process and micromechanics of bimodal mixtures. Additionally, a more comprehensive investigate of the respective breakage of the bimodal mixtures has been carried out. On this basis, qualitative and quantitative analysis of the stress, force chain, contact bonds and density field evolution characteristics of the clusters are investigated during the compression process. The entire loading process of the clusters is divided into three stages: rearrangement, breakage and elastic-plastic deformation. Additionally, there are differences in the evolution of micromechanics behavior of different particles in the bimodal mixture, with PGS breakage and deformation occurring before MCC. With the tablet deformation, the fragmentation process of the tablet started at the point of contact and extended toward the center, and the curvature of the force chain increased. This approach may potentially hold a valuable new information relevant to important transformation forms batch manufacturing to advanced manufacturing for the oral solid dosage form.
Anthropometric screening approach for obstructive sleep apnea in Japanese men: development and validation of the ABC scale
Authors: Hirasawa Toshiyuki , Kobayashi Mina , Nakayama Hideaki , Yanagihara Mariko , Inoue Yuichi
Published: August 2023

Background
The existing screening tools for the detection of moderate and severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are tailored to Western individuals. The aim of this study was to formulate and validate a simple anthropometric tool for OSA screening in a Japanese male population by incorporating objective indicators obtained during routine medical checkups.
Methods
In total, 443 Japanese men, who were suspected of having OSA and visited our sleep disorder clinic from 2009 to 2012, were retrospectively divided into two groups (developmental group [DG], n = 206; validation group [VG], n = 237). In DG, OSA was defined as an apnea-hypopnea index of ≥ 15 events/h. Data regarding clinical and anthropometric variables (age, body mass index [BMI], neck circumference [NC], waist circumference [WC]) were obtained. For parameters that were associated with OSA on simple logistic regression analysis, cutoff values were calculated with receiver operating characteristic curves to create a new screening tool. The utility of the tool was evaluated in VG and compared to that of the modified Berlin questionnaire (mBQ) for OSA.
Results
Age (odds ratio [OR] = 1.033, p = 0.002), BMI (OR = 1.231, p < 0.001), NC (OR = 1.327, p < 0.001), and WC (OR = 1.083, p < 0.001) were statistically significant risk factors for OSA in DG. Cutoff values for the prediction of OSA were age: ≥46.5 years, BMI: ≥25.45 kg/m2, NC: ≥38.35 cm, and WC: ≥90.75 cm. Our screening tool, incorporating age, BMI, and WC, yielded 70.1% sensitivity (mBQ: 85.4%) and 66.0% specificity (mBQ: 35.0%) in VG.
Conclusions
OSA screening in Japanese men has been conducted only in limited settings such as sleep clinics. It is hoped that this study will promote screening using objective indices in medical checkups and enable early detection and treatment of OSA.
Inflammatory Cytokines in Tear Fluid as Potential Biomarkers for Retinopathy of Prematurity
Authors: Baba Takashi , Uotani Ryu , Inata Kodai , Sasaki Shin-ichi , Shimizu Yumiko , Miura Mazumi , Inoue Yoshitsugu , Miyazaki Dai
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is a significant association between the level of cytokines in the tear fluid and the presence and severity of the Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). The level of the cytokines was determined in 34 eyes of 34 infants with ROP and 18 eyes of 18 infants without ROP. There were 15 eyes of 15 severe ROP requiring treatment and 19 eyes of 19 mild ROP not requiring treatment. Our results showed that the systemic risk factors for ROP included low gestational age, low birth weight, low Apgar score, surfactant administration, and rapid weight gain. Significantly higher levels of CCL2 and VEGF were detected in eyes with severe ROP compared to eyes with mild ROP or no ROP. Correlation analysis showed that lower gestation age was associated with increased CCL2 levels, lower birth weight with decreased IL-1α levels, and rapid weight gain with decreased IFN-γ levels. A combination of higher CCL2 levels, higher VEGF levels, and lower IFN-γ levels had a stronger predictive value for the severe ROP (area under curve, 0.85). We conclude that the levels of CCL2, VEGF, and IFN-γ are useful biomarkers for the severity of the ROP.
Mitigating Intruder Detection System in Mobile Adhoc Network (MANET) using optimizer based ANN model
Authors: N Sivanesan , Rajesh A.
Published: August 2023

Mobile Adhoc Network (MANET) is an adoptable network with dynamic as well as decentralized network in nature. This research concentrates to resolve Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks in MANET and illustrates the usual classification models, which may be unable to distinguish between legitimate DoS attacks as well as network problems. The routing path has been recognized as well as strengthen the environmental adoption with respect to several logic and statistical performances using Machine Learning (ML). The main aim in ML for recognizing the complexity pattern with AODV routing in MANET as well as decision making in accordance with accomplished result. In securing the MANET, there are several ML algorithms have been implemented. The lack of infrastructure in MANETs makes it extremely difficult to implement security measures. Moreover, the proposed sequential pattern with Artificial Neural Network (ANN) for AODV routing has generated better security from DoS attack. Thus, the security methods in MANETs majorly concentrating in mitigating intruder detection, eliminating malicious node as well as securing routing paths.
Evaluation of land resources carrying capacity based on entropy weight and cloud similarity
Authors: Xu Changlin , Yang Li
Published: August 2023

Land is the foundation of human life and development, which is also the most important part of a country. The study of land carrying capacity is one of the important contents of land management, wherein the evaluation of land resource carrying capacity (LRCC) is an important reference for land resource planning. Aiming at the information fuzziness and uncertainty in the evaluation of LRCC, firstly, a comprehensive evaluation model based on entropy weight and normal cloud similarity was proposed, which is based on cloud model theory and combined with normal cloud similarity measurement method and entropy weight method. Secondly, taking the asphalt pavement experiment as an example for empirical analysis, the experimental results are consistent with the actual situation, which proves the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed model. Finally, taking Chongqing city as the research area, the proposed evaluation model is used to study LRCC of Chongqing. The research results indicate that the comprehensive carrying capacity and average carrying capacity of various systems in Chongqing have been improved in the past decade. In the future, it is necessary to focus on the improvement of soil and water resources system and economic and technological system. This conclusion reflects LRCC of Chongqing objectively and has a reference value for Chongqing's land planning.
"Electronic Health Record Management System using RFID: Improving Efficiency and Accuracy in Healthcare.”
Authors: Sunar Akash , Pandey Gobinda , Yogi Jagdish , Poudel Navaraj , Koirala Khem Raj
Published: August 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Kv1.1 channel dysfunction in parvalbumin-positive interneurons contributes to anxiety-like behaviors in young adult presenilin 1/2 conditional double knockout mice
Authors: Xu Ying , Yang Guang , Zhao Chenyi , Zhao Yang , Yan Jinglan , Xia Yucen , Li Kun , Wu Yongkang , Wang Xingyu , Zhang Meng , Chen Yongjun
Published: August 2023

Anxiety, as an early manifestation of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), plays a significant role in the initial stages of cognitive decline and has a negative impact on the progression of the disease. However, the specific pathological mechanisms underlying anxiety in early stage of AD remain largely unknown. In this study, we investigated anxiety-like behaviors in presenilin 1/2 conditional double knockout (PS cDKO) mice, which are commonly used to study AD. To characterize anxiety-like behaviors, we conducted a battery of behavioral tests on young adult PS cDKO mice. Additionally, we performed electrophysiological recordings to examine the balance of excitatory and inhibitory activity in the synapses of pyramidal neurons and the neural network oscillations in the ventral hippocampus (vHPC) CA1 (vCA1) region of PS cDKO mice displaying anxiety-like behaviors. Our findings revealed a shift in the normal excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) balance and neural oscillations in the vCA1 region of PS cDKO mice with anxiety-like behaviors. Furthermore, we observed that parvalbumin-positive (PV+) interneurons, which play a crucial role in regulating the balance of excitatory and inhibitory activity, exhibited hypoexcitability in the vCA1 of PS cDKO mice. Mechanistically, we identified increased levels of Kv1.1, a voltage-gated potassium channel, in the vCA1 PV+ interneurons of PS cDKO mice. Genetically or pharmacologically, when we inhibited Kv1.1 in the vCA1 region, the hypoexcitability of PV+ interneurons was reversed and anxiety-like behaviors in PS cDKO mice were rescued. Therefore, we propose that the increased Kv1.1 levels in vCA1 PV+ interneurons reduce the excitability of PV+ interneurons, ensuing disrupted E/I balance of pyramidal neuron synapses causes anxiety in young adult PS cDKO mice. These findings provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying early AD-related anxiety-like behaviors.
Mixed planting with legumes did not improve the ability of perennial ryegrass to remediate heavy metal pollution in soil
Authors: Xi Yi , Zhang Li , Xu Yanhong , Tang Yanhua , Zhang Shuwei
Published: August 2023

Aims: To investigate the toxic effects of heavy metals on perennial ryegrass, their accumulation characteristics and detoxification by perennial ryegrass and soil microbial contents were examined under different planting treatments. Method: Through artificially controlled pot experiments, perennial ryegrass was mixed with other herbs (white clover and alfalfa) and treated with lead, zinc and cadmium (337 mg·kg-1, 648 mg·kg-1, and 9 mg·kg-1, respectively) to simulate complex pollution conditions.
Results: The results showed that mixed-species planting increased the aboveground and belowground biomass of perennial ryegrass compared to single-species planting. Both mowing and mixed planting affected the physiological parameters of the plants. Mixed planting reduced the lead, zinc and cadmium contents in perennial ryegrass. Under the uncontaminated treatment, mixed planting increased the activity of soil microorganisms, but under heavy metal contamination, mixed planting did not increase the soil microbial activity. This showed that mixed planting promoted ryegrass growth but did not improve its remediation.
Conclusion: Considering these effects and economic factors, it was concluded that perennial ryegrass monoculture has the best remediation effect on lead-, zinc-, and cadmium-polluted soil.
China's total carbon emissions and carbon peak-related projections
Authors: Song Qing , Xie Yi , Yang Chuanming
Published: August 2023

Background
To cope with the problem of global warming, China has proposed the goal of achieving carbon peaking by 2030. To explore the achievability of this target, the Stochastic Impacts by Regression on Population, Affluence, and Technology (STIRPAT) model is established by fully considering the effects of population, GDP per capita, energy intensity, the energy structure, water intensity, the industrial structure and other factors on carbon emissions.
Result
The regression results show that population, the urbanization rate, GDP per capita, the industrial structure, the energy structure, and environmental regulation all make a positive contribution to reducing carbon emissions. Especially, with other variables being constant, for every 1% increase in population, carbon emissions increase by 1.7718%.
Conclusion
The analysis of the model coefficients reveals that population and the industrial structure are the main influencing factors of carbon emission reduction in China. Combined with the scenario analysis method for projection, the results show that China is expected to be able to achieve the carbon peak target by 2030 under the low-carbon model. Finally, based on the scenario analysis of China's carbon emission trends, relevant policy recommendations are proposed, such as improving the quality of the population and building a green and low-carbon lifestyle; maintaining a reasonable economic growth rate; accelerating energy restructuring; and optimizing the industrial structure.
Influence of reasoned organic and inorganic fertilization on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) growth, productivity, and profitability on degraded sandy soil in south Togo
Authors: Egnime Kola Kodjovi , Outéndé Toundou , Atalaèsso Bokobana , Koffi Tozo
Published: August 2023

Reasoned fertilization practices promote fertilizers formula adjusted to crop’s needs and increase production and income. In this study, two agronomic tests were carried out on two sites named Tabligbo (site 1) and Djikame (site 2) on degraded sandy loam soils situated in the south of Togo using inorganic and organic fertilizer quantities obtained from reasoned fertilization. An indigenous variety of Abelmoschus esculentus was used and five treatments were applied: T2: mineral fertilizer (667 Kg/ha), T3: waste compost (6126 Kg/ha at Tabligbo and 7260 Kg/ha at Dzikame), T4: mineral (333.50 Kg/ha) + compost fertilizers (3063Kg/ha for site 1 and 3630Kg/ha for site 2), control (T0) and smallholders farmers old fertilization practices (T1). At Tabligbo, treatments T2 and T4 stimulated quick growth (74,5 ± 03.50 cm) and the highest number of fruit was obtained on T4 treatment (102 ± 09). At Djikame, treatments T2 and T3 presented the highest growth (65.82 ± 2.51 cm) and the T4 treatment gave the best number of fruits (72 ± 4.00). Economic Efficiency and Cost-Value Ratio were high on the T4 formula on Tabligbo soil (53.48% and 1.85). At Djikame, treatment T2 presents the highest value of economic parameters (24.52% and 01.35). Among treatments tested, T4 (compost + mineral fertilizer) is the effective treatment on Tabligbo sandy loam soil for okra production while the T2 (mineral fertilizer) option is the best for okra production on site 2 due to the low content in nitrogen increasing C/N ratio.
Identification of potential biomarkers of venous thromboembolism in patients with COVID-19 via an integrated bioinformatic-based study
Authors: Chen Zhao-jun , Xu Si-chi , Chen Hai-hua
Published: August 2023

Background
As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, venous and arterial thromboembolic events have increased dramatically in many patients. This study aimed to identify the potential biomarkers for COVID-19-associated venous thromboembolism (VTE).
Methods
The datasets about COVID-19 and VTE were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was conducted to identify the most critical module associated with the clinic results. The intersection of common modules was processed for further enrichment analysis. The hub genes were identified by combining the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of VTEs and common module genes. Then, the final diagnostic value for VTE was verified through bioinformatics algorithms.
Results
As many as 78 common critical genes were summarized by the intersection of the most positive and negative modules of COVID-19 and VTE. These genes were mainly enriched in coronavirus disease, fluid shear stress and atherosclerosis, ribosome, NF-kappa B, and TNF signalling pathways. Four critical genes including GZMA, BCL2A1, CD52, and RANSE2 were selected by performing the intersection analysis with the DEGs in VTE. All these genes were found to be increased in VTE samples in GSE19151 and achieved a good diagnostic value with a relative proper area under the curve (AUC).
Conclusions
Our study found that similar changes occurred in COVID-19 and VTE. GZMA, BCL2A1, CD52, and RANSE2 can be utilized as potential diagnostic markers for COVID-19-related VTE. This study may offer new opportunities for the detection and prevention of COVID-19-induced hypercoagulable state and VTE.
Exposure to Crime and Racial Birth Outcome Disparities
Authors: Mark Nicholas , Torrats-Espinosa Gerard
Published: August 2023

Urban communities in the United States were transformed at the end of the 20th century by a rapid decline in violent and property crime. We leverage that sharp decline in violence to estimate the relationship between murder rates and racial disparities in birth outcomes. Combining birth certificate data from US counties with the FBI's Uniform Crime Reporting statistics from 1992-2002, we show that lower murder rates are associated with substantially smaller Black-White disparities in low birth weight and small for gestational age, and smaller Hispanic-White disparities in small for gestational age. These associations are larger in urban counties. We also estimate birth outcome disparities under the counterfactual that the crime decline did not occur. Drawing on recent literature showing that exposure to violent crime has negative causal effects on birth outcomes, which in turn influence life-course outcomes, we argue that these results suggest that changes in national crime rates have implications for urban health inequality.
Attenuation of the acoustic noise radiated by a compressible boundary layer through injection of a vibrationally active gas
Authors: Gillespie Graeme , Laurence Stuart
Published: August 2023

The effects of vibrational nonequilibrium processes on turbulence-generated acoustic noise were investigated in a Mach-2.8 shock-tunnel facility. Gas mixtures with relevant absorption characteristics were first identified from measurements of attenuation coefficients using a heated acoustic chamber. In the shock-tunnel facility, CO2, N2, He, and He/CO2 mixtures were injected into the lower boundary layer of the flow through a porous plate. A four-point Focused Laser Differential Interferometer (FLDI) positioned above the turbulent boundary layer was used to obtain simultaneous freestream measurements of entropic fluctuations propagating along streamlines and acoustic disturbances along Mach lines. Correlated fluctuations of Mach-line and streamline FLDI signal pairs were analyzed with a cross power spectral density (CPSD). Compared to a boundary layer of pure air, the injection of 30%, 35%, and 40% He/CO2 mixtures resulted in reduced fluctuation powers correlated along a Mach line in the frequency range of 200-800 kHz. Minimal reductions in fluctuation power were found along a streamline, indicating that the vibrationally active gas is affecting acoustic disturbances and not entropic disturbances. A mathematical disturbance model was created to examine the sensitivity of the measured attenuation to acoustic disturbances propagating from the lower boundary layer only. Disturbances were modeled as Gaussian wave packets of finite width, propagating in the streamwise direction and along Mach lines from the four walls of the test section. Modeling the acoustic disturbances from the lower boundary layer with a 15-30% amplitude reduction resulted in amplitude spectral densities and CPSDs that agreed well with the FLDI measurements.
87 Sr/ 86 Sr isotope ratio as a tool in archaeological investigation: risks and limits
Authors: Rossi Mattia , Iacumin Paola , Venturelli Gianpiero
Published: August 2023

During the last thirty years, the use of strontium isotopes in archaeology has spread widely. These isotopes, alone or in combination with others, can contribute to the definition of human groups and their migrations. However, the interpretation of the isotopic values of strontium is not always simple and requires good knowledge of geochemistry and geology. In this short work we report basic knowledge and suggestions for a correct use of these isotopes. The isotopic characteristics of bio-assimilable strontium depend not so much on the isotopic characteristics of the bulk rock as, rather, on that of its more soluble minerals. Before studying human, animal and plant remains, the state of conservation and any conditions of isotopic pollution should be carefully checked. Samples should be collected according to random sampling rules. The data should be treated by a statistical approach. To make comparisons between different areas, it should be borne in mind that the study of current soils can be misleading since the mineralogical modification of the soil over time can be very rapid.
Feasibility and Accuracy of a Real-Time Depth-Based Markerless Navigation Method for Hologram-Guided Surgery
Authors: Groenenberg Annabel , Brouwers Lars , Bemelman Mike , Maal Thomas J.J. , Heyligers Jan M.M. , Louwerse Max M.
Published: August 2023

Background
Two-dimensional (2D) medical visualization techniques are often insufficient for displaying complex, three-dimensional (3D) anatomical structures. Moreover, the visualization of medical data on a 2D screen during surgery is undesirable, because it requires a surgeon to continuously switch focus. This switching focus problem also results in extensive use of perioperative radiation to gain additional insights for a 3D configuration. The use of augmented reality (AR) has the potential to overcome these problems, for instance by using markers on target points that are aligned with the AR solution. However, placing markers for a precise holographic overlay are time-costly, always have to be visible within the field of view and disrupt the surgical workflow. In this study, we developed ARCUS, a depth-based, markerless holographic navigation system, which overlays 3D holograms onto target body parts to overcome the limitations of 2D medical visualization techniques.
Methods and results
In a phantom study, our markerless ARCUS system was evaluated for accuracy and precision by comparing it to a Quick Response (QR) code-based holographic registration method. The evaluation involved measuring the Euclidean distance between target points on a 3D-printed face and their corresponding points on the overlayed hologram using a robotic arm for precise measurements. Correlations between the measuring points provided by the our markerless system and the actual measuring points on the 3D-print were high, with promising consistent Euclidean distances between the 3D points and the holographic points generated by both our markerless system and the Vuforia QR Code system.
Conclusion
The markerless holographic navigation system holds strong potential as a 3D visualization method in clinical settings. While both ARCUS and the Vuforia QR code-based method fell short of meeting the surgical threshold of a 2 mm offset, our markerless system demonstrated promising features such as instant registration, markerless operation, and potential compatibility with non-rigid structures. Its automated hologram overlay onto target body parts offers significant advantages, paving the way for investigations into future clinical use.
Buried Arc application in Hybrid Laser-Arc Welding of Thermo-Mechanical Control Process Steels
Authors: Dreveck Natália , Borba Tadeu , Moura Osmar , Ferraresi Henrique , Bond Danielle
Published: August 2023

Hybrid laser arc welding (HLAW) has gained significant attention in recent years due to its ability to provide high-quality welds with improved productivity. One of the key challenges in HLAW is the efficient utilization of the welding arc energy. This work aims to analyze the HLAW process with gas metal buried arc welding (GMBAW), and compare the results obtained with typical results of laser welding and HLAW with non buried arc. Tests were conducted at two welding speeds, 1.0 m/min and 1.5 m/min, and the results were compared with autogenous laser bean welding (LBW) and HLAW without a buried arc, on ASTM A709 steel that was manufactured by Thermo-Mechanical Control Process (TMCP). The buried arc HLAW resulted in a more uniform weld bead, with a reduced heat-affected zone. Moreover, the laser power required to achieve full penetration of the weld joint was smaller for the buried arc HLAW variation.
Rapid and Non-destructive Identification of Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles arabiensis Mosquitoes Species Using Raman Spectroscopy via Machine Learning Classification Models
Authors: Omucheni Dickson L , Kaduki Kenneth A , Mukabana Wolfgang R
Published: August 2023

Background
Identification of malaria vectors is an important exercise that can result in the deployment of targeted control measures and monitoring the susceptibility of the vectors to control strategies. Although known to possess distinct biting behaviours and habitats, the African malaria vectors Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles arabiensis are morphologically indistinguishable and are known to be discriminated by molecular techniques. In this paper, Raman spectroscopy is proposed to complement the tedious and time-consuming Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) method for the rapid screening of mosquito identity.
Methods
A dispersive Raman microscope was used to record spectra from the legs (femurs and tibiae) of fresh anaesthetized laboratory-bred mosquitoes. The scattered Raman intensity signal peaks observed were predominantly centered at approximately 1400 cm− 1, 1590 cm− 1, and 2067 cm− 1. These peaks, which are characteristic signatures of melanin pigment found in the insect cuticle, were important in the discrimination of the two mosquito species. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used for dimension reduction. Four classification models were built using the following techniques: Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), Logistic Regression (LR), Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (QDA), and Quadratic Support Vector Machine (QSVM).
Results
PCA extracted twenty-one features accounting for 95% of the variation in the data. Using the twenty-one principal components, LDA, LR, QDA, and QSVM discriminated and classified the two cryptic species with 86%, 85%, 89%, and 93% accuracy, respectively.
Conclusion
Raman spectroscopy in combination with machine learning tools is an effective, rapid and non-destructive method for discriminating and classifying two cryptic mosquito species, Anopheles gambiae and Anopheles arabiensis. belonging to the Anopheles gambiae complex.
Development and Validation of a Disulfidptosis-Related lncRNA Prognostic Risk Model for Cervical Cancer
Authors: Jin Xuanhong , Zhu Xinbin , shen Hangchen , You Liangkun , Pan Hongming
Published: August 2023

Background
Disulfidptosis, a recently discovered cellular death mechanism, has been proposed as a potential target for cancer therapy. However, its relationship with Cervical Cancer (CC) remains largely unexplored. Our research primarily focuses on understanding the role of associated long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) in Disulfidptosis and its potential implications for the immune response and prognosis in CC patients.
Methods
Using data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Disulfidptosis-associated lncRNAs in CC were identified and a risk model was developed. Analysis was done to evaluate tumor microenvironment differences, predict immunotherapy response and drug sensitivity. For external validation, we used the Cancer Genome Characterization Initiative - HIV + Tumor Molecular Characterization Project - Cervical Cancer (CGCI-HTMCP-CC) project for direct validation and introduced the Gene set score (GS) as a risk score alternative in the GEO44001 and IMvigor210 datasets for complementary validation.
Results
Risk groups displayed significant disparities in overall survival, with ROC curves exceeding 0.75 for 1- and 3-year intervals across the TCGA dataset. Through correlation analysis and single-cell analysis, we have identified USP30-AS1 as a potentially significant factor associated with immune infiltration and prognosis in cervical cancer, and we have constructed its Competing endogenous RNA (CeRNA) network. Moreover, The low-risk group exhibited increased immune checkpoint expression and enhanced immunotherapy effectiveness. Validation confirmed these findings. The high-risk group showed increased homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) and sensitivity to treatments like Paclitaxel and 5-Fluorouracil.
Conclusion
The research provides first-ever Disulfidptosis-related lncRNA signatures for predicting prognosis and assessing tumor microenvironment in CC, offering novel therapeutic insights.
Effects of cutaneous leishmaniasis on patients' quality of life in Lay Gayint District, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yizengaw Endalew , Nibret Endalkachew
Published: August 2023

Introduction
Cutaneous Leishmaniasis (CL) is caused by protozoan parasite called Leishmania. It is endemic in more than 100 countries globally. Despite its vast prevalence and impact on quality of life, it is one of the most neglected tropical dermatological diseases. The CL burden has often been expressed based on the physical disfigurement caused by the disease. However, considering the impact of the disease beyond physical impairment and changes in patients’ appearance would help to better understand the disease as a public health problem. The effect of CL on patients' quality of life was determined in this study.
Methods
The data that were related to quality of life were collected using Standard one-week Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) questionnaire. The questions were categorized under seven domains: symptoms & feelings, daily activities, work and school, leisure, personal relationships, and treatment. Each question was scored on a three-point scale: Very much (3), A lot (2), A little (1), Undecided (0), and Not at all (0). The sum of the scores lied between 0 to 48. A higher score shows worse quality of life. The data were entered and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science 23. Frequencies and proportions were used to describe the data. Differences were considered statistically significant at p < 0.05.
Results
The lives of the majority of CL patients (60.7%) were significantly affected by CL. The quality of life of patients was moderately impacted by CL in 25% of the CL patients. In 32.1% of the CL patients, the effect of CL on patients' quality of life was very large. The quality of one CL patient's life was extremely largely affected. The disease had a small effect on 32.1% of the CL patients. The domain related with personal relationships was the most affected domain followed by symptoms and feelings, treatment, and leisure.
Conclusion
The Dermatology Life Quality Index demonstrates that CL has a small to extremely very large negative effect on the quality of life of patients.
Clinical comparison of unilateral biportal endoscopic lumbar fusion verse 3D microscope-assisted transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion in the treatment of single-segment lumbar spondylolisthesis with lumbar spinal stenosis：A retrospective study with 24-Month Follow-Up
Authors: Guo wenlong , Li Tong , YU Yang , Feng Chaoqun , Hu Youpeng , Fan Xiaohong
Published: August 2023

Objcetive: To explore the safety the mid-term efficacy of unilateral biportal endoscopic transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion ( UBE-TLIF ) and 3D microscope-assisted transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion ( MMIS-TLIF ) in the treatment of single-segment lumbar spondylolisthesis with lumbar spinal stenosis ( DLS-LSS ).。Methods The clinical data of 49 patients who underwent UBE-TLIF or MMIS-TLIF in our hospital from September 2019 to March 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, 26 patients underwent UBE-TLIF and 23 patients underwent MMIS-TLIF. The demographic and perioperative outcomes of patients before and after surgery were reviewed. Visual analogue scale ( VAS ) and Oswestry disability index ( ODI ) were used to evaluate the clinical outcomes of patients before operation and at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and 24 months after operation. The lumbar lordosis angle ( LL ), disc height ( DH ) and lumbar intervertebral fusion rate were assessed before operation and at the last follow-up.Results The VAS and ODI of the two groups were improved compared with those before operation. The ODI of UBE-TLIF was lower than that of MMIS-TLIF at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after operation, and there was no significant difference between the two groups at other time points ( P > 0.05 ). There was no significant difference in VAS between the two groups at each time point ( P > 0.05 ). However, UBE-TLIF had more advantages in blood loss and hospital stay. The complications between the UBE-TLIF (11.54%) and the MMIS-TLIF (17.39%) were minor ( P > 0.05 ). Radiographic outcomes showed that the LL and DH of the two groups were improved compared with those before operation, and the difference before and after operation was not significant ( P > 0.05 ). The fusion rate was 96.2% in the UBE-TLIF group and 95.7% in the MMIS-TLIF group. There was no significant difference in the fusion rate between the two groups ( P > 0.05 ).Conclusions Both UBE-TLIF and MMIS-TLIF have favorable outcomes in the treatment of single-segment DLS-LSS. They have the advantages of clear surgical vision, high surgical efficiency, and favorable mid-term efficacy. In addition, compared with MMIS-TLIF, UBE-TLIF causes less intraoperative bleeding and faster postoperative recovery.
Tea Intake Increases Risk of Glaucoma: A Multivariable Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Xu Changzhong , Zhang Lusi , Tan Guangshuang , Xu Datong , Jiang Qian , Jiang Bing
Published: August 2023

Background
Numerous observational studies reported that tea intake decreases the risk of glaucoma. However, the observed correlation is inconclusive. To investigate the causal relationship between genetically predicted tea intake and glaucoma, ocular hypertension (OHT), primary angle-open glaucoma (POAG), and intraocular pressure (IOP), we performed a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study based on GWAS summary data.
Methods
Genetic instruments for tea intake were obtained from UK Biobank involving 447,485 people. Summary-level data on outcomes were retrieved from the FinnGen project comprising 377,277 individuals (including 18,902 of glaucoma, 10,758 of OHT, and 7,756 POAG participants). Data for confounder factors (smoking, coffee consumption, and alcohol drinking) and intermediary factors (intraocular pressure) came from different GWAS meta-analysis studies. We explored the causal effect of tea intake and glaucoma outcomes by conducting two-sample MR, multivariable MR, and two-step MR. Inverse variance-weighted (IVW) analysis was used as the primary method for causal analysis. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis was conducted to ensure the reliability of the results.
Results
Two-sample MR found that genetically predicted tea intake was causally associated with a higher risk of glaucoma [IVW odds ratio, ORIVW = 1.41, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.09–1.84, P = 0.009], as well as ocular hypertension [ORIVW = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.07–1.83, P = 0.013]. Multivariate MR indicated that the adverse causality effect remained significant, even after adjustment for other modifiable factors. Mediation analysis via two-step MR showed that these effects were not mediated by intraocular pressure, suggesting an independent causal mechanism between tea intake and a higher risk of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Sensitivity analyses found little evidence of pleiotropy.
Conclusions
Genetically predicted tea intake has a causal effect on the increased risk of glaucoma and ocular hypertension. Moreover, this harmful causal association is not mediated by intraocular pressure.
Clinical Significance of Upregulation of EZH1 Expression in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Tissues
Authors: Chen Si-Yu , Li Jian-Di , Huang Zhi-Guang , He Rong‐Quan , Chen Feng , Li Jian-Jun , Huang Zhao-Quan , Chen Ji-Tian , Chen Gang , Dang Yi-Wu
Published: August 2023

Purpose
The incidence and mortality of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) are increasing. It is urgent to develop more effective HCC biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment. This project intends to explore the expression of the enhancer of zeste 1 polycomb repressive complex 2 subunit (EZH1) and its mechanism in HCC.
Methods
This study integrates global microarray and high-throughput sequencing datasets, combined with internal immunohistochemistry, to analyze the expression and prognostic value of EZH1 in HCC. Functional enrichment analysis was conducted to investigate transcriptional targets, which were achieved by intersecting HCC over-expressed genes and EZH1 co-expressed genes, putative transcriptional targets. The relationship between EZH1 and anticancer drugs was detected by drug sensitivity analysis.
Results
In this study, 84 datasets from 40 platforms (3926 HCC samples and 3428 non-cancerous liver tissues) were included to show the high expression of EZH1 in HCC. Immunohistochemistry with 159 HCC samples and 62 non-HCC samples confirmed a high expression level. HCC patients with high EZH1 expression had worse survival prognoses. GO and Reactome analysis revealed that metabolism-related pathways, including autophagy, are critical for HCC. Interestingly, as one of the EZH1 potential transcriptional targets, autophagy-related 7 (ATG7) appeared in the above pathways. ATG7 was positively correlated with EZH1, upregulated in HCC, and mediated poor prognosis. Upregulation of EZH1 was found to be in contact with HCC anti-tumor drug resistance.
Conclusion
The upregulation of EZH1 expression can promote the occurrence of HCC and lead to poor clinical progression and drug resistance, these effects may be mediated by regulating ATG7.
Psychological Reactions among Adults during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Atyrau, Kazakhstan
Authors: Kaliyev Asset A. , Mamyrbayev Arstan A. , Bermagambetova Saule K. , Satybaldiyeva Umit A. , Baspakova Akmaral M. , Umarova Gulmira A. , Amanzholkyzy Ainur , Zhilisbayeva Kulyash R. , Mussin Nadiar M. , Zinalieva Ainur N.
Published: August 2023

Background This cross-sectional survey conducted in Atyrau, Kazakhstan aimed to understand the psychological reactions among adults during the COVID-19 pandemic.Methods The study involved sampling individuals from different age groups and employed standardized questionnaires to assess psychological and psychophysiological profiles, considering factors such as gender, age, education, and social status. A total of 798 participants were surveyed with informed consent obtained from all participants.Results The findings revealed a wide range of psychological reactions experienced by the urban population during the pandemic. Vulnerable groups, including the young, the elderly, and predominantly females, exhibited a significant negative impact on their psychological and psychophysical health. Factors such as education, social living conditions, family status, and income level played crucial roles in influencing individuals' psychoemotional state. Comparative analysis between individuals diagnosed with COVID-19 and those without the disease showed that the pandemic acted as a trigger for the manifestation of psychoemotional, psychophysiological, and mental disorders. The study emphasized the importance of psychoprophylactic measures and psychoeducational methods for all population groups, particularly targeting vulnerable populations. Integration of mental health and psychosocial support services into the public health response was highlighted as crucial to mitigating the adverse effects on individuals' mental health and overall well-being.Conclusions Understanding the psychological reactions during the COVID-19 pandemic provides valuable insights for developing effective interventions and support systems to alleviate the impact on individuals' mental health. This research contributes to a better understanding of the psychological responses experienced by adults during the pandemic in Atyrau, Kazakhstan. The study's findings underscore the importance of addressing mental health needs and implementing targeted interventions to support the psychological well-being of the population. By prioritizing mental health and psychosocial support, the long-term consequences associated with the pandemic can be minimized, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals affected by the crisis.
Pulmonary 4D flow CMR imaging in Landrace pigs under rest and stress
Authors: Faragli Alessandro , Hüllebrand Markus , Berendsen Amy , Solà Laia Tirapu , Muzio Francesco Paolo Lo , Götze Collin , Tanacli Radu , Doeblin Patrick , Stehning Christian , Schnackenburg Bernhard , Vosse Frans Van der , Nagel Eike , Post Heiner , Hennemuth Anja , Alogna Alessio , Kelle Sebastian
Published: August 2023

Introduction:
CMR 4D flow is a promising technique for assessing vessel hemodynamics. However, its current utilization is limited due to the lack of reference values, particularly for pulmonary vessels, generally understudied. With the purpose to serve for future research studies, we have analysed the pulmonary flow and velocity in Landrace pigs at both rest and stress by utilizing the software MEVISFlow.
Methods:
Nine (n=9) healthy Landrace pigs were acutely instrumented closed-chest and transported to the CMR facility for evaluation. After baseline (BL) measurements, dobutamine (Dob) was administrated to achieve a 25% increase in heart rate compared to baseline values. 4D flow images from the pigs during both rest and stress states have been analysed through MEVISFlow software by two independent observers. In detail, we examined peak flow and peak velocity of the pulmonary trunk (PT) and both left and right pulmonary arteries (LPA and RPA, respectively).
Results:
A significant difference between BL and Dob regarding both peak flow and peak velocity in all the pulmonary vessels was observed. Peak flow changed from 0.09 L/min to 0.14 L/min in PT, from 0.04 L/min to 0.07 L/min in LPA and from 0.05 L/min vs 0.07 L/min in RPA. Peak velocity changed from 0.90 m/s to 1.40 m/s in PT, from 0.80 m/s to 1.40 m/s in LPA and from 0.80 m/s to 1.33 m/s in RPA.
Conclusions:
The current study showed that peak flow and peak velocity assessed through pulmonary 4D flow follow the physiological alterations during systole and diastole and after stress induced by dobutamine.
Pedestrian Motion Characteristic-based Trajectory Prediction from the Driver’s Perspective
Authors: Huang Mengtao , Wang Jiaxuan
Published: August 2023

In traffic scenarios, pedestrians navigate to their destinations while avoiding obstacles. Autonomous vehicles must predict pedestrian future positions and adjust their paths to prevent accidents. Previous trajectory prediction methods commonly use a static camera's view, not directly suitable for autonomous driving. This study proposes a method from a vehicle's perspective to predict pedestrian trajectories. Vehicle motion information is fused with pedestrian features, then used as input for subsequent prediction module processing. Two modules, MFM and SIM, are proposed to solve the interaction problem between individual pedestrian features and neighborhood pedestrians respectively. Our method's performance is verified using the MOT16 multi-person dataset and the Daimler pedestrian path prediction benchmark dataset. Compared to the existing FPL method, our approach reduces the mean displacement error (ADE) by 8% and the final displacement error (FDE) by 10%. It provides a crucial step towards safe coexistence of autonomous vehicles and pedestrians, by offering both theoretical and tested means for predicting the future location of pedestrians.
Randomized study of the effects of Empagliflozin and Topiramate dual therapy on anthropometric and metabolic indices in non-diabetic individuals with overweight/obesity on a calorie-restricted diet
Authors: Abiri Behnaz , Ahmadi Amirhossein Ramezani , Hosseinpanah Farhad , Zarghi Afshin , Valizadeh Majid
Published: August 2023

Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the combined use of empagliflozin (EMPA) and topiramate (TPM) versus a placebo in overweight/obese individuals without diabetes on a calorie-restricted diet.
Methods: In this study, 44 non-diabetic and overweight/obese subjects who were on a calorie restricted diet were randomly assigned into 2 groups: 1) Participants received a 10 mg EMPA tablet daily plus TPM tablet (at the first week 25 mg once a day and from the second week 25 mg twice a day); 2) Participants received an empagliflozin placebo (daily) plus a topiramate placebo (as mentioned for topiramate tablet in group 1), for 12 weeks. At baseline and weeks 4, 8, 12, weight, height, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), and body composition were evaluated. Before and after the intervention, blood pressure, C reactive protein, and glucose and lipid profile parameters were measured.
Results: The EMPA/TOP group, compared to placebo, had a greater percent change of weight at week 12 (-8.92 ± 1.80 vs. -4.93 ± 1.17). The intervention group had a greater percent change of fat mass and fat percent at week 12 (P<0.05). However, there was no difference in the percent of change in fat-free percent between the two groups at week 12 (P=0.577). Within-group analysis found a significant reduction in SBP, DBP, FBS, insulin, HOMA-IR, TC, LDL, HDL, TG, and CRP in both groups (P<0.05). The Time × Group effect was significant only for DBP (P=0.034). At week 12, no statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in any of mentioned variables (P>0.05).
Conclusion: In non-diabetic overweight/obese individuals, the combination of EMPA/TPM and calorie restriction led to a notable decrease in body weight and was generally well-tolerated. Further research is required to evaluate the potential advantages of utilizing this combination for sustained weight management in the long run.

Name of the registry: Iranian Registry of Clinical
Trials
Trial registration number: IRCT20230114057122N1
Date of registration: 2/1/3/2023 'Retrospectively
registered'
URL of trial registry record:
https://www.irct.ir/trial/68026