bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Denitrification Performance and Mechanism of NH 3 - SCR Catalyst for Modification of Rare Earth Tailings by Ce Combined with Mn
Authors: Sun Xiankang , Li Jiaming , Lu Linbo , Wang Tiantian , Wu Wenfei , Hou Limin
Published: December 2024

CeMn-rare earth tailings catalysts with wide temperature window and high denitrification were prepared by hydrothermal method. The results show that the optimum ratio of Ce/Mn is 1:1, and the NOx conversion can reach 90% at the range of 100–300℃. The introduction of Mn improves the dispersion of CeCO3F on the catalyst surface, exposing more active adsorption sites. In addition, the interaction of MnOx with Ce and Fe in the rare earth tailings promotes redox, which facilitates the oxidation of NO to NO2. Meanwhile Mn also increases the abundance and stability of NO adsorption species and Lewis acid sites, forming important intermediates such as Mn4+-ONO2, NH4NO3 and NH2NO. But the strong oxidizing ability of Mn and the reaction between monodentate nitrate and adsorbed NH3 results in N2 selectivity decrease rapidly. Catalysts follow both E-R and L-H mechanism in the NH3-SCR reaction. Moreover, the excellent redox performance and Lewis acid sites improve the NH3-SCR catalytic activity together.
Accuracy and feasibility of continuous glucose monitoring system in pancreatectomy patients
Authors: Choi Yoo Jin , Jeon Su Min , Yu Sehyeon , Jo Hye-Sung , Kim Dong-Sik , Yu Young-Dong
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Pancreatectomy patients often experience challenging fluctuations in blood glucose levels; therefore, they require a reliable monitoring system. This study aimed to determine the accuracy and acceptability of a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) system compared with the intermittent capillary glucose test in patients who have undergone pancreatectomy.
Methods
Thirty-one non-diabetic pancreatectomy patients participated. We used the FreeStyle Libre Flash Glucose Monitoring System (Abbott Diabetes Care) for continuous interstitial glucose monitoring. Capillary reference glucose levels were checked four times daily. Accuracy was checked using the Clarke Error Grid.
Results
The mean age of the participants was 56.8±12.0 years, of whom 61.3% underwent pancreaticoduodenectomy and 38.7% underwent distal pancreatectomy. The clinical accuracy of continuous glucose monitoring compared with capillary glucose was 43.9% in Zone A (clinically accurate zone) and 99.8% in Zone A + B (low risk of error) of the Clarke Error Grid. No device-related adverse events were reported. Patients rated favorable user acceptability on the questionnaire.
Conclusion
This pilot study demonstrated that the CGM device is accurate and safe for patients who underwent pancreatectomy, with favorable user acceptability. However, this device was challenging to use in older patients and those in the immediate postoperative period because of their weakened condition. Despite these challenges, the study proposes that the CGM device is beneficial for monitoring glucose levels after discharge in patients with impaired glucose levels following pancreatectomy.
Assessing the effectiveness of measurement scales in evaluating the quality of life in rare disease patients after treatment: a systematic review
Authors: Dumbuya John Sieh , Ahmad Bashir , Zeng Cizheng , Chen Xiuling , Lu Jun
Published: December 2024

Background
Rare diseases often entail significant challenges in clinical management and health-related quality of life (QoL) assessment. Variability in reported QoL improvements following interventions has been noted across the literature, raising questions about the effectiveness of treatment modalities and the appropriateness of QoL assessment tools.
Objective
This systematic review aims to analyse the effectiveness of various assessment scales in evaluating QoL and the reasons behind differences in reported QoL improvements across studies using the same and different assessment scales on rare diseases.
Methods
A comprehensive literature search was conducted across various databases to identify studies that reported QoL outcomes related to interventions for rare diseases. Key variables, including intervention types, patient demographics, study design, and geographical factors, were analysed to determine their role in influencing the reported QoL outcomes. The findings were then compared with existing literature to identify consistent patterns and discrepancies.
Results
A total of 39 studies were included, comprising randomised controlled trials, observational studies, and cohort studies, with a total of 4737 participants. Significant variations were observed in QoL improvements across studies, even when using the same assessment scales. These differences were primarily attributed to the heterogeneity in disease severity, intervention types, and patient characteristics. Studies employing disease-specific scales reported more nuanced outcomes than generic ones. Additionally, methodological differences, including study design and intervention type, contributed to variations in results and geographical factors influencing patients' perceptions of health and well-being.
Conclusion
The reported differences in QoL outcomes across studies can be explained by a combination of factors, including disease heterogeneity, treatment modalities, patient demographics, and assessment scale characteristics. These findings underscore the importance of selecting appropriate QoL assessment tools based on the research context and patient population. For more accurate comparisons across studies, it is crucial to consider these factors alongside consistent methodology and cultural adaptability of scales. Future research should focus on developing standardised guidelines for QoL assessments that accommodate the diverse needs of patients with rare diseases.
Ultrasound-responsive nanoparticles for nitric oxide release to inhibit the growth of breast cancer
Authors: Yang Haiyan , Zheng Guangrong , Li GuoChen , Chen Jincui , Qi Licui , Luo Yong , Ke Tengfei , Xiong Jie , Ji Xiaojuan
Published: December 2024

Gas therapy represents a promising strategy for cancer treatment, with nitric oxide (NO) therapy showing particular potential in tumor therapy. However, ensuring sufficient production of NO remains a significant challenge. In this study, we successfully constructed ultrasound-responsive nanoparticles, which consisted of poly (D, L-lactide-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles, natural L-arginine (LA), and superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIO, Fe3O4 NPs), denote as Fe3O4-LA-PLGA NPs. The Fe3O4-LA-PLGA NPs exhibited effective therapeutic effects both in vitro and in vivo, particularly in NO-assisted antitumor gas therapy and dual-modality imaging properties. Upon exposure to ultrasound irradiation, LA and Fe3O4 NPs were rapidly released from the PLGA NPs. It was demonstrated that LA could spontaneously react with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) present in the tumor microenvironment to generate NO for gas therapy. Concurrently, Fe3O4 NPs could rapidly react with H2O2 to produce a substantial quantity of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can oxidize LA to further facilitate the release of NO. In conclusion, the proposed ultrasound-responsive NO delivery platform exhibits significant potential in effectively inhibiting the growth of breast cancer.
An insulator target detection algorithm based on improved YOLOv5
Authors: Zeng Bing , Zhou Zhihao , Zhou Yu , He Dilin , Liao Zhanpeng , Jin Zihan , Zhou Yulu , Yi Kexin , Xie Yunmin , Zhang Wenhua
Published: December 2024

Drone inspections are widely utilized in the detection of insulators in power lines. To address issues with traditional object detection algorithms, such as large parameter counts, low detection accuracy, and high miss rates, this paper proposes an insulator detection algorithm based on an improved YOLOv5 model. Firstly, in the backbone and neck networks, a lightweight CSP-SCConv module is employed to replace the original CSP-Darknet53 module, thereby reducing the parameter count and enhancing the feature extraction capabilities. Secondly, to broaden the image receptive field and improve feature fusion, an RFB model is incorporated into the neck network, replacing the original SPPF module. Additionally, a LSKBlock attention mechanism is appended at the end of the neck network to further obtain richer semantic information. Finally, to flexibly improve the accuracy of bounding boxes of different sizes and enhance the robustness of the model, an loss function is utilized to replace the original CIOU loss function. Experimental results demonstrate that the improved YOLOv5 model achieves a mean Average Precision (mAP) precision of 95.60%, with a parameter count of 18.36M and a computational load of 30.10G, respectively. The Precision (P) and Recall (R) are 88.10% and 95.20%, providing strong support for deployment on mobile devices for real-time detection.
The Effect of Endometrial PRP on Fertility Outcomes in Women with Implantation Failure or Thin the Endometrium
Authors: gurkan naziye , alper tayfun
Published: December 2024

Objective
To evaluate the effect of intrauterine platelet-rich plasma (PRP) treatment on frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) cycles in patients with recurrent implantation failure.
Materials and Methods
The study group consisted of 150 patients. The patients were grouped only as those with thin endometria, those with recurrent implantation failure (RIF), and those with both thin endometria and RIF. All participants underwent frozen embryo transfer. The control group consisted of a total of 150 patients who had normal endometrial thickness and who did not have a history of RIF and who presented to the clinic due to unexplained infertility. The rates of biochemical pregnancy,clinical pregnancy, miscarriage and live birth were compared among the groups in terms of fertility outcomes.
Results
In 150 patients with a thin endometrium or a history of RIF who underwent PRP, the endometrial thickness was significantly greater than the pre-PRP endometrial thickness, and this value was found to be statistically significant (7.38 mm vs. 7.96 mm, p < 0.001). In the thin endometrium group, there was also a statistically significant difference in between the endometrial thickness measured before and after PRP (5.85 mm vs 6.65mm, p < 0.001). The rate of not achieving pregnancy in the RIF group without PRP was found significantly greater than that in the control group (53.1% vs 28.7%, p < 0.05).
The Association Between Blood Pressure and Gallstones and the Age of First Cholecystectomy in U.S. Adults: Results from a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Zhang Yue , Duan Ruifeng , Chen Xin , Wei lijuan
Published: December 2024

Background
To assess the association between hypertension( HTN ) and the prevalence of gallstones and the age at first cholecystectomy in U.S. adults.
Methods
Data were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database from 2017 to 2020. Weighted logistic regression analysis, weighted linear regression, weighted subgroup analysis, generalized additive models, smooth fitting curves, and two-piece linear regression models were utilized to evaluate the relationship between HTN, gallstone prevalence, and the age of first cholecystectomy.
Results
A total of 7,532 participants above 20 years were included in the study. Among them, 817 individuals self-reported a history of cholecystectomy, and 781 individuals self-reported a history of gallstones. After adjusting for age, gender, race, education level, smoking status, marital status,, diabetes, and hypercholesterolemia, HTN was significantly associated with gallstones in individuals aged 48 years and older (OR = 1.39, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.88). Systolic blood pressure was positively related to the age of first cholecystectomy (β = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.12, 0.26), and a nonlinear relationship was observed with a threshold effect at 170 mmHg.
Conclusion
An association was identified between blood pressure and the prevalence of gallstones in individuals aged 42 years and older. Systolic blood pressure was positively associated with the age of the first cholecystectomy. Although causality cannot be established, these findings may aid in identifying early risk groups for gallstone disease and first cholecystectomy, improving risk stratification, and reducing screening costs.
Physical inactivity, overweight and cardiovascular risk: COVID-Inconfidentes Study
Authors: de Moura Samara Silva , de Menezes-Júnior Luiz Antônio Alves , Batista Aline Priscila , Machado-Coelho George Luiz Lins , Carraro Júlia Cristina Cardoso , Meireles Adriana Lúcia
Published: December 2024

Background
Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) currently occupy first place in terms of global morbidity and mortality, and physical activity (PA) is an important modifiable strategy that acts directly on CVD and indirectly on weight loss and maintenance.
Objective
To investigate the association between physical inactivity and cardiovascular risk (CVR) mediated by excess weight in adults.
Methods
This is a population-based epidemiological household survey carried out in two Brazilian municipalities. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a structured questionnaire in electronic format. Participants were classified as physically active or inactive according to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The mediating variable was the presence of overweight based on reported weight and height. CVR was estimated using the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), categorized as low risk (< 5%) or intermediate to high risk (≥ 5%). Data analysis consisted of descriptive analysis and univariate and multivariate logistic regression to examine the association between physical inactivity (FI) and CVR. Mediation analysis was performed using the Karlson-Holm-Breen method to verify the influence of overweight on the association.
Results
A total of 1,690 individuals were interviewed, 46.3% aged between 35 and 59 and 50.7% female. In the multivariate analysis (OR: 1.89; 95%CI; 1.10–3.24) FI was associated with intermediate to high cardiovascular risk, and 17.18% of this effect was mediated by overweight (OR:1.11; 95%CI; 1.02–1.25).
Conclusions
These findings suggest that FI increases the chances of cardiovascular risk, and part of this association can be explained by being overweight.
Relative fat mass, A better predictor of erectile dysfunction: insights from the NHANES 2001–2004
Authors: Yang BoWen , Wang HanYu , Tang Luyi , Feng JiuHuan , Hou ShuFang
Published: December 2024

Background
Obesity is a significant factor contributing to erectile dysfunction (ED). Early detection of ED generally results in improved treatment outcomes. Our study aims to elucidate the association between relative fat mass (RFM) and ED by analyzing data from the National Health and Nutrition Inspection Survey (NHANES) spanning 2001 to 2004.
Methods
We utilized data from NHANES 2001–2004, employing weighted, multivariable-adjusted logistic regression to assess the relationship between RFM and the risk of ED. Additional analyses included subgroup analysis, smooth curve fitting, and threshold effect analysis. Subsequently, the predictive utility of RFM, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference (WC) for ED was evaluated using the receiver operating characteristic curve and area under the curve (AUC) calculations.
Results
A total of 3,947 American male participants were included in this observational study within NHANES. Weighted multivariate logistic regression analysis indicated that, after adjusting for potential confounding factors, RFM was positively associated with the risk of ED (OR = 1.03, 95%CI 1.01, p < 0.001). No significant saturation effects between RFM and ED were observed (all P > 0.05). Additionally, RFM demonstrated superior predictive capability for ED (AUC = 0.644) compared to BMI (AUC = 0.525) and WC (AUC = 0.612).
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that higher RFM levels are associated with an increased risk of ED, highlighting its potential utility as a predictive marker for this condition.
Global hypomethylation as an MRD biomarker in esophageal and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma
Authors: Boldrin Elisa , Piano Maria Assunta , Volpato Alice , Alfieri Rita , Franco Monica , Morbin Tiziana , Masier Annalisa , Realdon Stefano , Mattara Genny , Magni Giovanna , Rosato Antonio , Pilati Pierluigi , Fantin Alberto , Curtarello Matteo
Published: December 2024

Esophageal and esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma (EADC-EGJA) prognosis is poor, and Barrett’s esophagus has increased risk of developing tumor through the carcinogenesis process from metaplasia/low-grade dysplasia to high-grade dysplasia (HGD). Long interspersed nuclear element-1 (LINE-1) is considered a surrogate marker of global methylation, an epigenetic event contributing to progression. cfDNA of 90 patients with never dysplastic Barrett’s (NDBE), HGD/early EADC-EGJA or locally advanced/advanced EADC-EGJA have been analyzed for LINE-1 methylation, by Methylation-Sensitive Restriction Enzyme droplet digital PCR. Twenty-six patients have been longitudinally studied. Global hypomethylation increased during carcinogenesis, with significant difference between locally advanced/advanced EADC-EGJAs and NDBEs (P = 0.028). Longitudinal cases confirmed rareness and stability over time of hypomethylation in NDBEs. The majority of HGD/early EADC-EGJA and locally advanced/advanced EADC-EGJA showed methylation dynamic after resection according to clinical status, suggesting that global hypomethylation occurs just prior to cancer invasiveness and it is a promising biomarker to monitor molecular residual disease/recurrence.
The Role of Infectious Diseases in infant Mortality Across African Regions
Authors: Boudia Ahmed Ould , Adusei-Mensah Frank
Published: December 2024

This study examines the role of infectious diseases in neonatal mortality across various African regions, with a particular focus on regional disparities in death causes. Using data from the Maternal and Child Epidemiology Estimation (MCEE) database, the analysis covers mortality rates from 2000 to 2021 across five African regions: Central, East, North, Southern, and West Africa. Prematurity, birth asphyxia, and acute lower respiratory infections were found to be the leading causes of neonatal death, with lower-income regions experiencing significantly higher mortality rates. The study highlights the effectiveness of interventions against diseases like measles and malaria, but points to the ongoing burden of preventable conditions such as sepsis and birth trauma. The findings emphasize the need for region-specific healthcare policies, particularly in low-income areas, to address gaps in maternal and neonatal care. Investments in healthcare infrastructure, infection control, and neonatal care practices are critical to reducing preventable deaths and improving neonatal outcomes across the continent.
Revealing drivers of green technology adoption through explainable AI
Authors: Witthaut Dirk , Kistinger Dorothea , Titz Maurizio , Böttcher Philipp , Schaub Michael , Venghaus Sandra
Published: December 2024

Effective governance of energy system transformations away from fossil resources requires a quantitative understanding of the diffusion of green technologies and its key influencing factors. In this article, we propose a novel machine learning approach to diffusion research focusing on actual decisions and spatial aspects complementing research on intentions and temporal dynamics. We develop machine learning models that predict regional differences in the accumulated peak power of household-scale photovoltaic systems and the share of battery electric vehicles from a large set of demographic, geographic, political, and socio-economic features. Tools from explainable artificial intelligence enable a consistent identification of the key influencing factors and quantify their impact. Focusing on data from German municipal associations, we identify common themes and differences in the diffusion of green technologies.
Intrahepatic Splenosis Mimicking Hepatocellular Carcinoma in patient with elevated AFP
Authors: Xu Jianjun , Li Suzhen , Zou Tianhao , Wang Zhiying , Chen Sisi , Wang Weimin , Zhou Xing , Gao Yang , Wang Guoliang , Zheng Qichang , Zhang Chen , Hu Shaobo
Published: December 2024

Background
Intrahepatic splenosis is an extremely rare intrahepatic mass, which is easily misdiagnosed and mistreated. There are few reports in the literature that intrahepatic splenosis mimicking hepatocellular carcinoma in patient with elevated AFP.
Methods
The clinical data of seven patients with intrahepatic splenosis who were diagnosed and treated at the Union Hospital (Wuhan, China), and Wuhan Asia General Hospital (Wuhan, China), between March 2012 and September 2024 were analyzed retrospectively.
Results
The mean age of intrahepatic splenosis patients was 53.1 ± 11.1years (range 41–76 years). All patients had previously undergone splenectomy due to traumatic splenic rupture. Of the seven patients with intrahepatic splenosis, four cases were pure intrahepatic splenosis, and three cases included extrahepatic splenosis. Three case was accompanied by upper abdomen or jaundice, and all the other four cases were found in physical examination. Enhanced CT imaging or enhanced MRI showed liver splenic metastasis lesions with uneven enhancement in the form of fast in and fast out. One patient was misdiagnosed with hepatocellular carcinoma due to elevated AFP, but biopsy revealed a rare intrahepatic splenosis, thus avoiding unnecessary resection. The size of the intrahepatic splenosis lessions ranged from 1.0 to 4.2 cm. None of the six patients who underwent surgical resection had splenosis recurrences, and the patients with intrahepatic splenosis confirmed by liver biopsy did not show lesion progression during the active examination period.
Conclusions
In patients who have previously undergone splenectomy due to splenic trauma, it is important to consider the potential occurrence of intrahepatic splenosis upon the identification of intrahepatic lesions, and percutaneous liver biopsy is recommended. For individuals without clinical symptoms following a confirmed diagnosis of intrahepatic splenosis, no specific treatment is required.
Plasma Connective Tissue Growth Factor Levels in Pediatric Patients with Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Vahidshahi Kourosh , Fatahi Somaye , Ghazavi Mohammad , Norouzi Alireza , Khalilian Mohammad Reza , Alaei Fariba
Published: December 2024

Introduction Accurate measurement of pulmonary artery pressure traditionally involves catheterization, but due to its invasive nature, ongoing research is exploring biomarkers to assess pulmonary hypertension severity without resorting to procedures. This study aimed to investigate the association of plasma connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) levels with pulmonary hypertension secondary to congenital heart disease (PAH-CHD) in pediatrics. Methods This observational case-control study took placed at Shahid Modarres Educational Hospital in Tehran, Iran. The case group comprised 160 patients with congenital heart defects, evenly split between those with and without pulmonary hypertension. The control group included 80 healthy children matched for age and gender, and CTGF levels, SPO2, PASP, PADP, RVSP, RVDP, Qp/Qs, Rp were compared between the case and control groups. Results CTGF levels were significantly elevated in patients with congenital heart defects associated with pulmonary hypertension compared to both the control group (P-value = 0.024(and the congenital heart defect without pulmonary hypertension group (P-value = 0.002). In our study, a significant correlation and regression between CTGF levels and systolic pulmonary arterial pressure (PAP) (r = 0.286, P < 0.001 and β = 0.510, P = 0.008) was shown. However, no significant correlation or regression was observed between CTGF levels and diastolic PAP (r = 0.146, P = 0.066 and β=-0.096, P = 0.592), RVSP (r = 0.107, P = 0.179 and β=-0.013, P = 0.920), RVDP(r = 0.011, P = 0.894 and β = 0.035, P = 0.777), pulmonary flow to systemic flow (QP/QS) (r = 0.086, P = 0.278 and β = 0.055, P = 0.657), pulmonary resistance to systemic resistance (Rp/Rs) (r=-0.054, P = 0.495 and β = 0.013, P = 0.912) as well as IUCU stay (r = 0.146, P = 0.441 and β = 0.093, P = 0.461) and SPO2 (r = 0.048, P = 0.546 and β = 0.071, P = 0.587) Conclusion: This study underscores CTGF as a promising biomarker for assessing pulmonary hypertension in pediatric patients. Studies with prospective design are needed to further examine this association.
A Unique Bilateral Anatomical Variation of the Extensor Digitorum Longus and Fibularis Tertius Muscles
Authors: Olson Brendan , Wakeland William , Olson Jayden , Zoghi Sara , Hubbard John K.
Published: December 2024

Purpose
The extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and fibularis (peroneus) tertius (FT), muscles of the anterior compartment of the leg, synergistically work to dorsiflex and evert the foot. The EDL additionally extends the lateral four toes, while the FT normally lacks this ability. Anatomical variations of the variably present FT are common, but infrequently involve the EDL. The FT has been known to give off additional accessory tendons which may alter its role in ankle and foot movement. Documentation of unique anatomical variations of the FT and EDL can assist not only anatomists, but clinicians and surgeons as well.
Methods
During routine cadaveric dissection, a rare and unique bilateral presentation of the extensor digitorum longus and fibularis tertius was discovered.
Results
The extensor digitorum longus was found to be missing its lateral-most tendon that would normally insert on the 5th digit. A large, overriding FT split into three tendons, with the medial-most tendon inserting to the phalanges of the 5th digit, effectively replacing the missing EDL tendon. All findings were present bilaterally.
Conclusion
To our knowledge, despite previous literature of unilateral presentations like this case, a bilateral EDL and FT variation as seen here has never been reported in humans. The use of accessory fibularis muscles in tendon graft procedures, especially the FT, makes awareness of leg anatomical variations critical for surgeons operating in the area. The present case is discussed alongside other documented anatomical variations, highlighting potential clinical implications for tendon grafting and preoperative imaging.
Recycled cement production, with zero emissions
Authors: Berlinguette Curtis , Ji Tengxiao , Ren Shaoxuan , Yang Yumeng , Jiang Gaopeng , Crescenzo Giuseppe , Scott Sabrina , Kim Yongwook , Williams Aubry , Rumscheidt Jordan , Stolar Monika
Published: December 2024

We report here the electrochemical production of clinker clinker precursor, containing calcium derived from the electrolytic decomposition of waste cement. Our “cement recycler” contains a cement electrolyzer, coupled to a cement digestion vessel, and a Ca(OH)2 isolation vessel. The cement electrolyzer creates acid and base equivalents and converts waste cement into calcium hydroxide and silica. The electrolyzer is demonstrated at current densities up to 300 mA cm–2 to produce yields of >80% for Ca(OH)2. We experimentally verified a 99.8% reduction in CO2 emissions when using fresh waste cement, and an 80% reduction when using aged cement (enriched with absorbed CO2) from a demolition site. Our cement recycler bypasses the need for virgin limestone and could cut global CO2 emissions by nearly 1 Gt annually, while also helping divert substantial waste cement from landfills.
Assessing the Long-Term Persistence of SARS-CoV-2 in Guinea: Insights from Post- Epidemic Sentinel Syndromic Surveillance Data
Authors: KADIO Kadio Jean Jacques Olivier , GNIMADI Thibaut Armel  Chérif , GUICHET Emilande , HOUNMENOU Gbêmemali Castro , SOUMAH Abdoul Karim , DIALLO Haby , CAMARA Amadou , CAMARA Saidouba Chérif , SANDOUNO Marie Rose , BANGOURA Salifou Talassone , DIABY Maladho , RICHARD Vincent , POUBLAN Julien , SIDIBE Sidikiba , DELAMOU Alexandre , CAMARA Alioune , KEITA Alpha Kabinet , DELAPORTE Eric , TOURE Abdoulaye , Team AFROSCREEN
Published: December 2024

Background: In December 2019, the world experienced one of the significant health crises of the 21st century with the emergence and rapid spread of the potentially fatal 2019 coronavirus (COVID-19). In this context, sentinel surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants was conducted in Conakry. Here we report the first data on reproduction numbers and risk factors during the Omicron post-epidemic period in Guinea.
Methods: A sentinel syndromic and genomic surveillance study was conducted on suspected patients from October 2022 to July 2024 at healthcare facilities in Conakry. Individual data and nasopharyngeal swabs were collected and sent to the Centre de Recherche et de Formation en Infectiologie de Guinée (CERFIG) laboratory for screening and sequencing by next-generation sequencing (NGS). The basic reproduction number (R0) and the effective reproduction number (Rt) were estimated using EpiEstim to assess the transmission potential of the Omicron variant and its sub-variants. Generalized linear models based on the binomial distribution were employed to analyze factors associated with SARS-CoV-2 positivity, following the identification of primary risk factors using Bayesian model averaging and the Near-Miss data balance algorithm.
Results: Data from 1174 patients with suspected cases with a median age of 31 years (IQR: 20-51), were analyzed. The overall COVID-19 positivity rate was 11.8%. The global basic reproduction number (R0) was 1.98 [95% CI: 1.02-3.25] and the effective reproduction number (Rt) was 2.08 [95% CI: 0.35-5.81]. Data from 1,174 suspected cases were analyzed, with a median age of 31 years (IQR: 20-51). Factors independently associated with positive SARS-CoV-2 infection included agueusia (AOR= 2.29; 95% CI [1.19-4.52]), cough (AOR= 7.10; 95% CI [2.51-25.5]), and contact with a suspected or confirmed case (AOR= 5.88; 95% CI [2.45-15.7]).
Conclusion: SARS-Cov-2 is still circulating in Guinea, with high rates of positivity, and the global base and effective reproduction rates are unchanged in this post-epidemic period in our country. The associated factors and the circulation of variants with a diversity of circulating strains suggest the need to strengthen genomic and epidemiological surveillance, with the support of all those involved in the response to COVID-19, to ensure continuity of alerts and decision-making for public health.
Sideroflexin family genes were dysregulated and associated with tumor progression in prostate cancers
Authors: Huang Hua , Lian Huibo , Zhu Runzhi , Shao Haiyan , Li Benyi
Published: December 2024

Sideroflexin (SFXN) family genes encode for a group of mitochondrial proteins involved in cellular processes such as iron homeostasis, amino acid metabolism, and energy production. Recent studies showed that they were aberrantly expressed in certain human cancers. However, there is a paucity of information about their expression in prostate cancer. In this study, we took a comprehensive approach to investigate their expression profiles in benign prostate tissue, prostate-derived cell lines, and prostate cancer tissues using multiple transcriptome datasets. Our results showed that SFXN1/3/4 genes were predominantly expressed in prostate tissue and cell lines. SFXN2/4 genes were significantly upregulated while the SFXN3 gene was significantly downregulated in malignant tissues compared to benign tissues. SFXN4 expression was determined as a diagnostic biomarker and prognostic factor for unfavorite survival outcomes. In advanced prostate cancers, SFXN2/4 gene expressions were positively correlated with the androgen receptor signaling score but negatively correlated with the neuroendocrinal feature score. Further analysis discovered that SFXN2/4 gene expressions were modulated by the androgen receptor signaling pathway but not involved in neuroendocrinal progression. In conclusion, SFXN2/4 expression is a novel biomarker in prostate cancer diagnosis and prognosis modulated by the androgen receptor signal pathway.
How Does Digital Transformation Affect Corporate Reputation - Evidence From Listed Companies in China
Authors: Chen Yuchen , Liao Lewei
Published: December 2024

In the wave of digital economy, digital transformation has become a key pathway for enhancing corporate competitiveness. This study selects data from A-share listed companies in Shanghai and Shenzhen between 2000 and 2022 as the initial sample to measure digital transformation. The results demonstrate a pronounced positive correlation between digital transformation and corporate reputation, which persists even after accounting for endogeneity and conducting variable substitutions. Through mediation effect analysis, digitalization profoundly impacts enterprises through internal and external effects. The internal effect focuses on improving the financial status of enterprises, stimulating innovation potential, and risk-taking levels; the external impact is reflected in improving information transparency and enhancing market competitiveness. Together, these effects contribute to an enterprise's improved reputation in the process of digital transformation. Through the heterogeneity analysis, it is found that the impact of digital transformation on corporate reputation varies according to the size characteristics of the enterprise, the nature of ownership, and the type of industry, as well as the time of the enterprise's listing. It is concluded that digitalization has a more significant impact on corporate reputation in enterprises with smaller sizes and shorter listing markets. The impact of digitization on reputation is less in firms with mixed ownership nature of equity and industry of manufacturing. This study provides evidence and insights to promote digital transformation for corporate reputation management in the context of digitization.
Analog In-Memory Computing Attention Mechanism for Fast and Energy-Efficient Large Language Models
Authors: Leroux Nathan , Manea Paul-Philipp , Sudarshan Chirag , Finkbeiner Jan , Siegel Sebastian , Strachan John Paul , Neftci Emre
Published: December 2024

Transformer networks, driven by self-attention, are central to Large Language Models. In generative Transformers, self-attention uses cache memory to store token projections, avoiding recomputation at each time step. However, GPU-stored projections must be loaded into SRAM for each new generation step, causing latency and energy bottlenecks.

We present a custom self-attention in-memory computing architecture based on emerging charge-based memories called gain cells, which can be efficiently written to store new tokens during sequence generation and enable parallel analog dot-product computation required for self-attention. However, the analog gain cell circuits introduce non-idealities and constraints preventing the direct mapping of pre-trained models.
To circumvent this problem, we design an initialization algorithm achieving text processing performance comparable to GPT-2 without training from scratch. Our architecture respectively reduces attention latency and energy consumption by up to two and five orders of magnitude compared to GPUs, marking a significant step toward ultra-fast, low-power generative Transformers.
The longest-lasting 2023 western North American heat wave was fueled by the record-warm Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Lopez Hosmay , Lee Sang-Ki , West Robert , Kim Dongmin , Jia Liwei
Published: December 2024

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), 2023 was ranked as the warmest year in the global surface temperature record since 1850, setting new warm surface temperature records over more than 20% of the global land surface (WMO, 2023). In particular, the southwestern United States (US) and Northern Mexico experienced their longest stretch of record-breaking heat wave from late-June to mid-August, affecting over 100 million people, and causing over 200 deaths. This compounded drought and heatwave caused $14.5 billion in economic loss, the costliest natural hazard of 2023. Our analysis based on observational data indicates that the 2023 heat wave event was directly linked to a strong anticyclonic blocking pattern that persisted for more than six weeks across the western US. Regression analysis and dedicated atmospheric model simulations suggest that the anticyclonic blocking pattern was ultimately forced by the extremely warm sea surface temperature in the Atlantic. An extreme value analysis shows that the warm Atlantic along with a growing El Niño in the Pacific were responsible for doubling the heat wave number, tripling the heat wave days, and increasing the duration of heat wave events by about 50 percent in the region.
Highly Selective Synthesis of Interlocked Carbazole-based Cages and their Application in Effective Solar-driven Water Evaporation
Authors: Dang Li-Long , Lu Ming-Yu , Yang Jian-Xin , Xu Ya-Ning , Chai Ying-Hang , Wan Xiao-Qian , Zhao Ying , Tian Dan , Aznarez Francisco , Ma Lu
Published: December 2024

The design and assembly of interlocked supramolecular cages is a highly important research topic, mainly due to their exquisite topological configuration and excellent performance in a variety of application fields. Herein, we introduce the preparation of two new carbazole-based ligand precursors, L1 and L2, which were rationally designed to form three molecular-tweezer like compounds, three interlocked cages, a tetranuclear macrocycle and a hexanuclear cage via combination with four different half-sandwich rhodium based building blocks, E1-E4. The structure of these compounds was determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis, NMR spectroscopy and ESI-TOF-MS analysis. Owing to stacking interactions between carbazole groups and the appropriate size of building blocks, interlocked cages and molecular-tweezer like compounds were obtained. Furthermore, the photothermal conversion performance of the isolated compounds was studied in detail. The interlocked cages 5, 6, and 7, exhibiting broad-band absorptions from the UV-Vis to the NIR region and remarkable photothermal conversion, were used to prepare the membranes 5', 6', and 7', and study their application in steam generation promoted by solar energy. Evaporation rates of 0.77, 1.52 and 1.37 kg·m-2·h-1 were recorded for 5', 6' and 7', respectively, indicating their suitability to collect fresh water from desalination and wastewater treatment.
Highly Shape-Morphable Origami Electromagnetic Waveguides
Authors: Ashok Nikhil , Suk Sangwoo , Bilén Sven G. , Ning Xin
Published: December 2024

Electromagnetic waveguides are used extensively in spacecraft, naval, electrical, and communication systems for transferring microwave energy from one point to another. Current electromagnetic waveguides are typically rigid, bulky structures with no or minimal shape adaptability. This construction poses challenges in using electromagnetic waveguides in highly confined spaces or systems requiring small storage volumes and high shape adaptability. This work reports a novel concept of highly shape-morphable origami electromagnetic waveguides that can fold, deploy, and change shapes. This research explores multiple designs inspired by origami folding techniques, including shopping bags and bellows designs. The numerical and experimental studies indicate that the origami waveguides exhibit low-loss, robust microwave energy transmission. These results demonstrate that the highly shape-morphable electromagnetic waveguides may effectively replace their rigid counterparts including straight, twisted, and bent waveguides. This research also employs a combined analytical and experimental approach to investigate the kinematics and mechanics of the origami electromagnetic waveguides with a focus on rectangular straight and twist bellows designs. This knowledge provides rigorous guidance for the structural design of origami electromagnetic waveguides. The engineering advancements and fundamental studies in this work lay the foundation for future adaptive microwave energy delivery waveguides.
Metabolomic Response to Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs
Authors: Ghosh Soumita , Lahens Nick , Barekat Kayla , Tang Soon-Yew , Theken Katherine N. , Ricciotti Emanuela , Sengupta Arjun , Joshi Robin , Bushman Frederic D. , Weljie Aalim , Grosser Tilo , FitzGerald Garret A.
Published: December 2024

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are popular choices for the mitigation of pain and inflammation; however, they are accompanied by side effects in the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems. We compared the effects of naproxen, a traditional NSAID, and celecoxib, a cyclooxygenase − 2 (Cox-2) inhibitor, in humans. Our findings showed a decrease in tryptophan and kynurenine levels in plasma of volunteers treated with naproxen. We further validated this result in mice. Additionally, we find that the depression of tryptophan was independent of both Cox-1 and Cox-2 inhibition, but rather was due to the displacement of bound tryptophan by naproxen. Supplementation of tryptophan in naproxen-treated mice rescued fecal blood loss and inflammatory gene expression driven by IL-1β in the heart.
User wants, needs and resistance in the postdigital university: prioritizing pedagogical concerns in learning analytics design
Authors: Harrington Susan , Sellberg Charlott
Published: December 2024

Despite the increasing interest in learning analytics over the past decade, there remains relatively little integration with pedagogical practice in higher education. The limited engagement of teachers in the design and development of teacher facing dashboards has been cited as a significant issue. As the purpose of a teacher facing dashboard is to enable deep insights into student learning as a basis for data-driven decision making, successful integration depends on compatibility with pedagogical needs and intentions. In this paper, we outline findings from a series of focus groups with nautical simulator instructors (n=12) from three different universities in Sweden, Norway and Finland. During focus groups, the design concept of multimodal learning analytics was presented and discussed, with focus on the usefulness of a teacher-facing learning analytics dashboard in addressing typical instructional concerns during simulation-based training. In the analysis, we focus on the juxtaposition between user wants, needs and resistance, prioritizing the simulator instructors’ pedagogical concerns in learning analytics design. The findings highlight a crucial gap between the technological capabilities of learning analytics and the practical, everyday challenges of teaching in simulation-based environments. To bridge this gap, it is essential to design dashboards that are not only professionally intuitive and data-rich but also adaptable to the specific pedagogical strategies of instructors. Ultimately, successful implementation depends on a user-centered design process that integrates instructors’ perspectives, ensuring that learning analytics tools align with the complexities of simulation-based training.
Barriers and enablers for group-based manual emptying services for onsite sanitation facilities in Nairobi, Kenya: a qualitative study
Authors: Tomoi Hiroaki , Ingumba Bonface Butichi , Simiyu Sheillah , Otteng Evelyne , Osewe James , Majiwa Hamilton , Braun Laura , Cumming Oliver , Moriyasu Taeko
Published: December 2024

Onsite sanitation, such as pit latrines, is essential to achieving universal access to safe sanitation, as articulated in the Sustainable Development Goal target 6.2. However, manual emptying services for pit latrines in low-income areas are often inadequate and unhygienic, posing health and environmental risks. Since service safety increases costs while affordability for customers is essential, service cost reduction is important. Group-based emptying is an approach where the service provider visits several households on the same day to empty onsite sanitation facilities, having a potential to improve efficiency and affordability of manual emptying. This paper aims to identify barriers and enablers for group-based manual emptying services in low-income neighbourhoods of Nairobi. We conducted 12 focus group discussions with landlords, tenants, and manual emptiers in the Korogocho informal settlement in Nairobi and interviewed 20 key informants from relevant sectors in Kenya. We identified five categories of barriers and enablers that affected general and group-based manual emptying: 1) funding, 2) expertise and equipment, 3) social and commercial habits, 4) physical conditions, and 5) regulatory systems. Of these, a norm that pits are not emptied until they get full, operating time constraints, fair and transparent pricing, and an organiser who can arrange group-based emptying from Category 3, and transport capacity from Category 4 specifically affected group-based manual emptying. Given that the barriers have a cascade structure, addressing some primary barriers such as capacity building and recognising manual emptiers’ role in the sanitation policies could be effective ways to ensure safe and affordable emptying services.
Asymptotic analysis of the stochastic HTLV-I model with Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process
Authors: Kiouach Driss , Khammich Lahcen , El-idrissi Salim El Azami
Published: December 2024

The object of this work is to enhance the persistence sill and to reconsider the sufficient conditions leading to the extinction of the stochastic HTLV-1 infection model proposed by Shi and Jiang in [1]. As a first step, and by using some mathematical techniques, we obtain some new and better sufficient conditions for the existence of an ergodic stationary distribution. Then, by using sepectral radius analysis we identify critical condition for elimination of the diseas. After that, we demonstrate that our conditions are stronger and well justified than its homologue in [1]. Finally, we present some numerical simulation example to back up our theoretical outcomes.
The Circle of Willis, Aneurysms and Subarachnoid Haemorrhages: a Historical Narrative of Parallels from Observation to Intervention
Authors: Nichols Linda
Published: December 2024

The history of aneurysmal subarachnoid haemorrhage (aSAH) is far from modern, spanning close to 5000 years. There are many parallels and references to epidemiological principles that remain current today and are central to modern nursing research techniques. The importance of epidemiology in nursing cannot be overestimated, nursing practice closely aligns with the ultimate goals of epidemiological principle in the promotion of health and reduction of disease related risk factors. Despite nursing holding the conceptual key to enriching epidemiological research, nursing has historically distanced itself from front line epidemiological research, often hesitant about both capability and clinical expertise in leading epidemiological research. The following historical narrative serves as a reminder of how far we have come in the diagnosis, treatment and care of individuals post aSAH as well as serving as inspiration for future nursing research.