bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Gazefinder® detect specific symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders in children? – a preliminary study of clinical application to neurodevelopmental screening
Authors: Orui Masatsugu , Ishikuro Mami , Obara Taku , Noda Aoi , Shinoda Genki , Murakami Keiko , Metoki Hirohito , Kikuya Masahiro , Nakaya Naoki , Nishimura Tomoko , Tanaka Keiko , Miyake Yoshihiro , Hozawa Atsushi , Tsuchiya Kenji J , Kuriyama Shinichi
Published: December 2024

Gazefinder®, an eye-tracking system, was developed to capture atypical gaze patterns of diagnostic value (e.g., limited duration of eye gaze fixation on social information) in people with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, whether it can detect specific symptoms of neurodevelopmental disorders other than ASD is unclear. Therefore, indicating associations between neurodevelopmental symptoms and gaze data measured by Gazefinder® is essential for its application in screening neurodevelopmental disorders other than ASD. This large-scale longitudinal study analyzed data from 2,101 subjects to examine associations between the duration of gaze fixation on social information as measured by Gazefinder® at age 4 and subscale scores of the Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at ages 6–7. Results of analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) revealed a significant association between the duration of gaze fixation on social information and SDQ’s peer problems (core feature of ASD). Notably, SDQ’s hyperactivity/inattention (core feature of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)) was also associated with the duration of eye gaze fixation. In conclusion, Gazefinder®’s gaze data at age 4 can detect symptoms of not only ASD but also ADHD at ages 6–7 longitudinally and have potential as a primary screening tool for neurodevelopmental disorders other than ASD.
Optimizing Treatment Strategies for Comminuted Low Pole Patella Fractures: a Comparative Analysis of Anchor Suture With Double Pulley vs Tension Band Wiring vs Hybrid Techniques
Authors: Bomansaan Herman , Ming Lei , Mambwe Getrude , Dassah Richmond Aakaakpe
Published: December 2024

Background: This study evaluates the clinical effects of three different surgical methods used in treating comminuted fractures of low pole patella fractures in adults.
Results: Surgical time in Group A is longer than that of Group B, while the median surgical time in Group C is the longest among the three groups. Bleeding time in Group A is longer than that of Group B, while the median bleeding volume of Group C is the longest among the three groups. Range of Motion among the groups, Group A had a higher range of motion but just slightly higher than C and B had the least. However, two and three patients in Groups C and B experienced k-wire loosening, wire dislocation and soft tissue irritation caused by k-wires.
Conclusion: TBW, although associated with shorter surgical time and less blood loss has limited efficacy in restoring joint function. Anchor suture with double pulley technique showed the best outcomes among the three groups, despite increased surgical time and blood loss. Compared to TBW and hybrid techniques, anchor suture with double pulley technique proved better ROM and lower complication rates. Therefore, for comminuted low pole patella fractures, anchor suture with double pulley technique may be the optimal choice for satisfactory results.
Ecological momentary intervention on respiratory vaccine willingness in rural older adults: A cluster randomized clinical trial
Authors: Zhao Tianshuo , Shi Wanna , Wang Mingting , Wang Lili , Yuan Mengjuan , Gao Chuane , Jia Cuicui , Zhang Xiyu , Zhang Wanxue , Xu Qingsong , Cai Xianming , Zeng Jing , Du Juan , Lu Qingbin , Zhang Yuanshan , Cui Fuqiang
Published: December 2024

Older adults in rural areas lack vaccination knowledge and health awareness, resulting in a low willingness to vaccinate. To examine the integration of health education with ecological momentary intervention (EMI) in rural older adults and develop strategies to increase vaccination rates and reduce the burden of respiratory infections in this vulnerable group, we conducted a community intervention trial using a cluster-randomized design in villages in Shandong Province, China, between October 2023 and May 2024. The villages were randomly allocated to the EMI or control group at a ratio of 3:1, and participants were recruited from each village. Participants aged ≥ 60 years without records of recent pneumococcal, influenza, and coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccinations were eligible. Four momentary interventions were conducted in the EMI group at T1 (week 5), T2 (week 8), T3 (week 10), and T4 (week 16). The participants received momentary education on COVID-19, pneumonia, and influenza to promote vaccination. The primary outcome of the study was the number of respiratory vaccines the participants were willing to receive. However, the secondary outcome was the actual vaccination behavior for each vaccine, which was measured based on vaccination records. This study included 1,332 older adults from rural villages: 1,027 and 305 in the EMI and control groups, respectively. Latent class trajectory analysis identified three distinct vaccination willingness trajectories: the Rebound Group, showing initial low willingness with a peak after the intervention but dropping post-intervention; the Plateau Group, with consistently high willingness; and the Ascend Group, which showed continuous growth in willingness. Notably, all trajectories displayed increased willingness compared with the control group during the intervention; however, only the Plateau and Ascend groups maintained high levels post-intervention. Furthermore, a mixed-effects model analysis revealed demographic differences between the groups. Additionally, 42 participants exhibited vaccination behavior, with the EMI group showing higher incidence rates than the control group, indicating the effectiveness of EMI. In conclusion, we identified three vaccination willingness trajectories, rebound, plateau, and ascend, with varying impacts from the intervention. Notably, all groups showed increased willingness to participate, and effective vaccination behaviors were observed.
Long-term survival, patterns of progression, and patterns of use for patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma treated with or without Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) in a real-world setting
Authors: Riegel Devon Cassidy , Bureau Britta L , Conlon Patrick , Chavez Gordon , Connelly Jennifer M
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Tumor Treating Fields therapy (TTFields) is an FDA-approved locoregional treatment for patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma (ndGBM). Previous trial data showed the addition of TTFields to standard TMZ-based therapy to significantly improve overall survival (OS), but real-world data is lacking, particularly with long follow-up duration. Here, we report real-world survival, patterns of progression, and patterns of use for patients for patients with ndGBM treated with or without TTFields.
Methods
Patients diagnosed with GBM and treated with standard of care therapy at the Medical College of Wisconsin between March 2015–March 2023 were included. Survival outcomes were assessed, and compared across groups who received or did not receive TTFields therapy during maintenance treatment. Patients were followed through March 1, 2024.
Results
A total of 208 patients (TTFields: n = 109; No-TTFields: n = 99) were included for analysis. Baseline characteristics were consistent across groups. Median OS and PFS were significantly improved for the TTFields group vs No-TTFields group (median OS: 21.7 vs 17.7 months, P = 0.029; median PFS: 12.4 vs 9.6 months, P = 0.047). Patients treated with TTFields exhibited a higher rate of non-local progression vs No-TTFields group. Median OS and PFS were each significantly longer for the ≥ 75% usage group compared with < 75% via matched analysis.
Conclusion
The results of this study reveal an association between TTFields use and long-term survival benefit, consistent with pivotal trial findings. TTFields use is associated with a higher incidence of non-local patterns of progression, and TTFields device usage ≥ 75% is associated with increased progression-free and long-term survival.
Novel Bacteriophage Peptides Targeting Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) in Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae: A Promising in Silico Therapeutic Approach
Authors: HAQ IHTESHAMUL , Hamza Muhammad , Anwar Faheem , Shahab Muhammad , Tong Yigang
Published: December 2024

Klebsiella pneumonia is a multi-drug resistance bacteria (MDR) play significant role in causing wide range of infections, including UTI, surgical site infections, septicemia and other bloodstream infections. The high rising ratio of MDR Klebsiella pneumonia is major public health concern and there is an urgent need to develop therapeutic strategies. Therefore, one of the hopeful and promising approaches is to use a bacteriophage peptide, which could specifically target the MDR bacteria and disrupt bacterial functions. The present study employs in silico analysis to screen and identify a new bacteriophage peptide which targets Gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT), a crucial protein in Klebsiella pneumoniae. The current study has identified and validated 20 important bacteriophage peptides against the GGT protein in Klebsiella pneumoniae using in silico analysis. The peptides show potential inhibitory effect on GG which could potentially decrease pathogen's viability. To further evaluate the efficacy and stability on this interaction we used comparative molecular dynamics simulation on four selected bacteriophage peptides complex with GGT. The results show the therapeutic potential of novel bacteriophage peptides, offering promising avenues for the development of targeted treatments against Klebsiella pneumoniae.
The Feasibility of High-resolution Organ-axial T2-weighted MRI When combined Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) for the Classification in Uterine Fibroids patients
Authors: Liu Xiaoyi , Wang Ke , Gou Xinyi , Lian Jianxiu , Zhang Yang , Hong Nan , Wang Jianliu , Zhou Rong , Cheng Jin
Published: December 2024

Purpose
The objective of this study was to assess the accuracy and reliability of the FIGO classification system in categorizing uterine fibroids using organ-axial T2W MRI and to further investigate the factors associated with uterine compression.
Methods
A total of 130 patients with clinically diagnosed fibroids were prospectively enrolled between March 2023 and May 2024, who underwent MR examinations, including body-axial T2W (sagittal and axial) and organ-axial T2W (high resolution with oblique coronal and double oblique axial). For post-processing, interobserver agreements between two radiologists and inter-aggrements between two MR examinations and operational descriptions were evaluated using Kappa statistics. The accuracy of axial and organ-axial T2W assessments in the FIGO classification of uterine fibroids was compared when surgical outcomes was used as the gold standard.The Kruskal-Wallis Test was utilized for comparing the differences in cavity deformation for various FIGO classifications. Spearman's Rank Correlation Test was employed to analyze the correlation between the FIGO classification and the parameters of uterine cavity deformation.
Results
In total, 170 fibroids from 130 patients were included. Organ-axial T2W showed better interobserver agreements and higher inter-agreements with operational descriptions than organ-axial T2W, and the Kappa values of 0.877 (P = 0.04) and 0.932 (P = 0.037), respectively. The accuracy of the organ-axial T2W assessment in determining the FIGO classification of uterine fibroids was higher than that of the body-axial T2W assessment, with an accuracy of 92.9% (P < 0.01). There were 32 (38.1%) fibroids showed cavity deformation according to organ-axial T2W, including fibroids with FIGO types 0–7 and 2–5. Among these, the size of fibroids (S), base width (B),depth of compression (D),D/B,D/S, and compression angle (A) were significantly different among the different FIGO types of fibroids (P < 0.05). A exhibited a linear correlation with the FIGO type (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
Organ-axial T2W provides higher accuracy based on the FIGO classification when compared to body-axial T2W, which showed better consistency according to surgical outcomes. Given the excellent reliability and accuracy of the preoperative FIGO classification, organ-axial T2W can contribute to treatment planning.
A Novel Method to Represent the Three-Dimensional Inclination of the Distal Radius Joint Surface
Authors: Ikumi Akira , Asai Reo , Eda Yusuke , Uchida Tooru , Kohyama Sho , Ogawa Takeshi , Yoshii Yuichi
Published: December 2024

Background:
This study aims to define three-dimensional (3D) parameters for the inclination of the distal radius joint surface. The goal is to develop standardized parameters for fracture reduction through comprehensive 3D evaluations of the joint surfaces.
Methods:
We analyzed 112 CT scans of unaffected wrists (56 males, 56 females) to construct 3D models of the distal radius. Using 3D coordinates, the normal vectors and angles were calculated based on three reference points on the distal radius joint surface. These normal vector components were then converted into unit vector components A, B, and C for the x, y, and z axes, respectively. Additionally, the angles of these unit vectors were assessed in the xy-, yz-, and xz-planes. The 3D measurements were compared between males and females and against traditional two-dimensional (2D) parameters such as palmar tilt and radial inclination.
Results:
For males, the unit vector components were A: -0.14 ± 0.09, B: -0.92 ± 0.02, and C: -0.36 ± 0.07; for females, A: -0.21 ± 0.08, B: -0.90 ± 0.03, and C: -0.36 ± 0.05. Significant differences were found between males and females for the A and B vector components (representing the palmar-dorsal and proximal-distal axes, P < 0.01). The angles of the unit vectors in the xy-, yz-, and xz-planes were 8.9 ± 5.4° / 12.9 ± 5.0°, 21.3 ± 4.1° / 22.1 ± 3.2°, and 22.2 ± 14.8° / 28.8 ± 10.1° for males and females, respectively. There were significant differences between males and females in the angles of the xy- and xz-planes (sagittal and axial planes, P < 0.01). Strong correlations were observed between the xy-plane vectors and palmar tilt (r = 0.96), as well as between the yz-plane vectors and radial inclination (r = 0.88).
Conclusions:
This study evaluated the 3D inclination of the distal radius joint surface, revealing significant gender differences. This method, which also allows for the assessment of rotational alignment—difficult with conventional techniques—is expected to be a key 3D parameter in treating distal radius fractures.
Unveiling Interrelationships Through Structural Equation Modeling: Family Function, Social Networks, and Social Phobia in Peritoneal Dialysis Patients
Authors: Wu Zongbi , Yan Yuxin , Cai Huifang , Qi Shikun , Xu Mingming , Wang Taifen , Jiang Youli
Published: December 2024

Background: Peritoneal dialysis (PD) enhances quality of life for end-stage renal disease patients but may be impacted by family function, social networks, and social phobia. This study examines the relationships among these factors in Chinese PD patients.
Methods: A cross-sectional study included 259 PD patients from Shenzhen Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital between December 2023 and April 2024. Participants completed questionnaires on family function (Family APGAR), social networks (LSNS-6), and social phobia (SASS-CS). Data were analyzed using Spearman correlation and Structural Equation Modeling.
Results: Most patients had good family function. Social network scores positively correlated with family function (r = 0.46, P < 0.001). Family function negatively correlated with social phobia (r = –0.48, P < 0.05). Family function partially mediated the relationship between social networks and social phobia, accounting for 42.1% of the total effect.
Conclusion: Strong social networks are associated with better family function and reduced social phobia in PD patients. Enhancing social support and addressing social phobia can improve family dynamics and patient outcomes.
Third-Generation Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors Plus Thoracic Radiotherapy Improves Survival in Patients with Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor-Mutated Stage IV Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Gu Xinhang , Geng Jiaxiao , Zhao Junfeng , Wang Juan , Sun Hongfu , Fu Chengrui , Yi Yan , Li Baosheng
Published: December 2024

Background
Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) represent a front-line therapeutic regimen for patients with EGFR-mutated stage IV non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Our study aimed to provide the first comparative assessment of the value of third-generation EGFR-TKIs and thoracic radiotherapy (TRT) with TKI alone.
Methods
We retrospectively collected patients with EGFR-mutated (exon 19 deletions or exon 21 mutations) stage IV NSCLC who were initiated on front-line therapy with third-generation EGFR-TKIs from 2018 to 2023. Patients were divided into TKI-alone and TKI + TRT groups according to whether or not TRT was added. A 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM) was implemented to decrease possible bias, and overall survival (OS), progression-free survival (PFS), and treatment-associated adverse events were assessed.
Results
For all patients, the median follow-up was 28.0 months (range 14.7–59.4 months). After PSM, each group consisted of 63 patients. Compared with the PSM-matched TKI-alone group, the TKI + TRT group presented significantly better PFS (25.3 vs. 21.4 months, hazard ratio [HR] = 0.55, P = 0.0085) and OS (45.5 vs. 35.1 months, HR = 0.49, P = 0.03). In patients with exon 19 deletions, adding TRT resulted in better PFS than only TKI alone (31.5 vs. 23.3 months). In patients with exon 21 mutations, the median PFS was 25.3 and 17.0 months in the TKI + TRT and TKI-alone groups, respectively. Only 4.3% of patients in the TKI + TRT group developed grade ≥ 3 pneumonitis.
Conclusion
Incorporating TRT resulted in a significant prognostic benefit in front-line third-generation EGFR TKIs, with acceptable side effects.
Sexual Abuse and Unwanted pregnancies amongst women and girls in Malawi during the Covid 19 Pandemic
Authors: Chikhungu Lana Clara , Nkwunonwo Ugochi
Published: December 2024

Background
Violence against women and girls increased during the COVID-19 pandemic across the globe. In Malawi, media reports were the major source of reports on sexual violence towards women and girls but such reports did not offer a comprehensive national-level outlook on the regional trends and patterns of the problem. This study investigates the extent to which the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to sexual abuse towards women and girls in Malawi and explores if there was an association between reported cases of sexual abuse (rape and defilement) and the number of women and girls accessing post-abortion care services across the four administrative regions; Northern, Central, Eastern, and Southern.
Methods
The study employed an explanatory mixed methods approach. In the first stage, quantitative administrative data from 2018 to 2021 on reported cases of rape and defilement obtained from the Malawi Police and on the number of women that accessed post-abortion care services from Malawi Public Health facilities was analysed. This was followed by key informant interviews (KIIs) with regional Child Protection Officers and district-level health personnel to verify and seek explanations for the quantitative findings. Descriptive statistics and bivariate analysis were conducted for the quantitative data, and a thematic analysis was performed to identify the common themes from the qualitative data.
Results
Reported cases of rape and defilement increased during the Covid-19 pandemic across all regions except for the Northern region. The Southern region was the only region to have experienced an increase in the number of women accessing post-abortion care services. The study did not establish any association between the percentage change in the number of reported cases of defilements and the percentage change in the number of women and girls accessing post-abortion care for the period before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusions
The study asserts previous reports that women and girls are not safe in their own homes such that more interventions should be steered towards tackling within-home sexual abuse. This study provides further evidence that in Malawi many unplanned pregnancies possibly result in unwanted children.
Comprehensive Monitoring and Assessment of South African Shoreline Dynamics Using Satellite Imagery
Authors: Theron Danie , Theron Andre Karl
Published: December 2024

South Africa’s beaches lack sufficient monitoring, hindering the holistic understanding of shoreline dynamics under increasing environmental and anthropogenic pressures. This study addresses this critical knowledge gap by using an enhanced, semi-automated CoastSat algorithm to create the first comprehensive shoreline database for South Africa, spanning nearly all sandy coastal areas from 1984 to 2023 (an average of 750 data points per transect, every 100m alongshore). The satellite-derived data demonstrated good accuracy (R = 0.95) against surveyed data, with an overall root-mean-square-error (RMSE) of 8.5m to 13.7m, and bias reduced by up to 79% when wave runup was additionally accounted for. Despite relatively inaccurate beach-face slope estimations at some sites (R = 0.45), the satellite-derived shoreline positions proved to be accurate. Assessments of all South Africa’s sandy coastal areas revealed that the west and south coasts showed net shoreline movements indicative of a 3- to 7-year period of medium-term dynamic stability, while the east coast exhibited ongoing progressive changes. Between 2000 to 2023, 98% of beaches on the west and south coasts experienced net movements of less than 40 meters, while the east coast experienced nearly double that amount. Year-on-year shoreline changes (m/year) were similar in magnitude across all three regions, with both accretion and erosion having a similar occurrence at mild and extreme rates. This first-of-its-kind resource for South Africa will guide informed, effective and sustainable coastal management strategies and engineering design.
Enhancing Anti-Angiogenic Therapy with Bevacizumab-Loaded Nanoflowers Through The Chorioallantoic Membrane Assay
Authors: Akar Remzi Okan , Ekremoğlu Murat , Altinkaynak Cevahir , Kutluay Bülent Poyraz , Ulukaya Engin
Published: December 2024

Discovering new cancer treatments is crucial, especially to counteract how tumors grow and spread through angiogenesis. This study proposes a novel method using Bevacizumab-loaded nanoflowers (Beva-NF), designed to enhance the anti-VEGF effects of Bevacizumab in a more targeted and effective way. By incorporating Bevacizumab into nanostructures, we aimed to address the limitations of conventional anti-angiogenic therapies, thus meeting the need for more powerful cancer treatments. Our method utilized the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, an alternative in vivo model, to test the antiangiogenic capability of Beva-NF. Through a carefully adapted one-pot synthesis method, we generated Bevacizumab-based nanoflowers, analyzing their shape, composition, and function via SEM, EDX, XRD, and FTIR analyses. This integrated approach allowed for a detailed examination of the nanostructures' effect on vascular growth in vivo. Results showed that Beva-NF significantly inhibited neovascularization, achieving greater efficacy than free Bevacizumab. Specifically, the reduction in vessel length, area, and branching points observed in the CAM assay demonstrated Beva-NF's enhanced therapeutic potential. Beyond proving the benefits of nanostructure-based delivery methods for improving drug effectiveness, the angiogenesis-blocking capacity of Beva-NF opens new possibilities for developing multifunctional nanomedicines for cancer [1, 5]. Future studies should investigate the long-term impacts and safety of these treatments in clinical environments and evaluate this novel approach's relevance to other cancer types.
Deep Learning with Multiple Faces to Improve Intrusion Detection in Adaptive Internet of Things Networks Optimization
Authors: Alasmari Sultan
Published: December 2024

IoT net security can be improved, and cyber threats may be reduced by using Deep Learning (DL) techniques, which offer a potential method for effectively detecting defects in network data. In this paper, DL techniques are utilized to build an improved IDS in IoT platform. Initially, a pre-processing phase is employed to handle the missing values and to identify anomalous data points via MissForest and Local Outlier Factor (LOF). Besides, a ResNet-50 approach is employed to extract specific and statistical features in the IoT data. Once feature extraction is done, feature selection is carried out using Improved Mutual Information (MI) method. Then, the dimensionality issues are reduced by Locally Linear Embedding (LLE) and an AdaptNet is introduced for detecting IoT attack using the combination of Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Long Short Term Memory (LSTM), and Auto-Encoder (AE). By leveraging advanced DL techniques and methodologies across different stages of IDS, the expected outcome is a robust and efficient tool capable of effectively safeguarding IoT networks. Use, AVOA and ARO optimization for fine-tuning pre-trained models on large datasets. Python tool is used for implementing the proposed work and the accuracy range is 99.2%.
Blueberry plants support a distinctive microbiome as a function of plant genetics and tissue
Authors: Giese Matteo , Stefani Erika , Larger Simone , Pindo Massimo , Farneti Brian , Ajelli Matteo , Cattani Monica , Delgado-Baquerizo Manuel , Giongo Lara , Coleine Claudia , Donati Claudio
Published: December 2024

Background
Fruits, such as blueberries, are critical for food production and ecosystem sustainability as they are largely consumed by humans and animals worldwide. The microbial communities (bacteria, archaea, and fungi) within and on the surface of these fruits play a key role in regulating food quality, alongside supporting crucial aspects of plant physiology and development. However, the specific factors shaping the microbiomes of blueberry fruits, as well as their relationship with other above-ground parts of the plant such as leaves and their stability over different years, remain poorly understood.
Results
We conducted a field experiment to characterize the taxonomic composition of fungal and bacterial communities colonizing the leaves and the surface and pulp of fruits on a collection of 10 different cultivars of blueberry over two consecutive years. We found that, independently from the sampling time, pulp of the fruit, surface and leaves harbors specific and distinct microbiomes. The major factor determining the structure of the microbiome of blueberry fruits and leaves was plant genetics, followed by tissue. We further identified the core microbiome for each plant tissue and demonstrated that core taxa account for the dominant fraction of the microbiota of each plant.
Conclusions
We showed that blueberries have a distinct microbiome associated with plant cultivar, and that this microbiome is consistent with time. We identified a tissue-specific core microbiome, with some genera shared among different tissues, and others consistently present only in specific tissues. As trade and production of blueberries is expanding globally, our results provide a foundation for advancing the development of targeted microbiome management strategies, with potential applications in enhancing plant health and productivity.
Temporal and spatial distribution, variability, and trend of hydroclimate in the Dabus River Basin Upper Blue Nile, Ethiopia
Authors: Tola Mekuria Tefera , Bekitie Kassahun Ture , Zeleke Tadesse Terefe , Anose Fikru Abiko
Published: December 2024

Background
High-resolution local scale climate research approach is very effective in examining the existing climate change and predicting its risk. Thus, this study investigated the hydroclimate distribution, variation, trend, and abrupt change points, and considered more than the climate normal time range (1981 to 2020) to determine the climate change of the Dabus River Basin. The study employed different statistical, parametric, and nonparametric modified trend tests, and exact changing point detecting models.
Results
The result found the basin received 57.7% of the annual rainfall in June, July, and August. The standard anomaly index (SAI) value indicates 1999 and 2000 were the wettest years whereas 1982,1983,1984,1986 and 2015 were the driest years in the area. The basin experienced very fluctuating rainfall for the last four decades. Peaks of Precipitation Concentration Index (PCI) were observed in the years 1987,1991, 2002,2003,2006, and 2011 which indicates the strong irregular distribution of rainfall. The annual mean rainfall and maximum temperature (Tmax) increased significantly (p < 0.05), whereas the annual mean minimum temperature (Tmin), river flow, and river runoff decreased. In Dabus the abrupt increasing change point of annual rainfall was observed in 1996 whereas Tmax in 1993 and 1997. The abrupt decreasing change point of Tmin, river flow, and river runoff was observed in 1987, 1998, and 1999, respectively.
Conclusions
The study found the climate change in the basin due to the significant increase in temperature with fluctuating rainfall distribution as well as reduction of river flow and runoff. This climate change could upset agriculture, electric power production, and water demand in the basin.
Dynamic Simulation and Experimental Verification of Foldable Thin-film Using ANCF
Authors: HUANG Zhuoran , CHENG Wei , Deng Zhiming
Published: December 2024

The lightweight and foldable characteristics of foldable thin-film structures align with the development trend of large-scale and lightweight spacecraft. Consequently, they are frequently employed in spacecraft components, including large antennas, sunshades, etc.In order to analyse the nonlinear properties of space thin-film origami structures, the dynamics of the thin-film and the crease is described based on experiments and numerical model . Specifically, the kinematic of space thin-film origami structures is described based on the Absolute Nodal Coordinate Formulation (ANCF). The crease is modeled by pre-configuration elements. The locking problem of the fully parameterized element is improved by applying a selective reduced integration method.The parameters of the film creases are identified based on the tensile experiments + Particle swarm optimization (PSO).A vision-based single crease unfolding experiment is constructed to verify that the simulation of film configuration changes during unfolding is consistent with the experiment.Additionally,the unfolding driving force is obtained by a multiple-creases unfolding tensile experiment. The comparison between the simulation and the experiment validate the simulation capability of the model applied to the unfolding process of complex film structures.This paper presents a more precise and systematic methodology for simulating thin-film unfolding process, which can be employed to inform the design and analysis of spatial thin-film structures.
Enhanced Antenna Design through Hyper parameter Optimization of Diverse Machine Learning Models Using Bayesian Optimization
Authors: Huang Chung-Hao , Ali Amir , Hsu Chang-Chen , Tsao Han-Hsing
Published: December 2024

This work investigates the use of machine learning (ML) models for microstrip patch antenna design optimization with Bayesian optimization. Based on datasets produced by CST Microwave Studio 2023 simulations, key antenna parameters, including resonance frequency, bandwidth, and return loss, were first predicted using Support Vector Regressor (SVR), k-Nearest Neighbor (KNN), and Gradient Boosting Regressor (GBR) models. With slot distance, patch length, and patch width as target parameters, pre-processing was used to transform CST output into structured input-output pairs in order to get the dataset ready for machine learning training. Extending this first method, we assessed ten machine learning models, each optimized with Bayesian hyperparameter tuning: SVR, KNN, GBR, Random Forest, XGBoost, Decision Tree, Stochastic Gradient Descent, Artificial Neural Network, Gaussian Process Regressor, and Linear Regression. By fine-tuning parameters like max_depth, n_estimator, Bayesian optimization greatly improved complicated models, lowering Mean Squared Error (MSE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) while raising R2 scores. After optimization, the Random Forest and XGBoost models produced the best predicted accuracy, according to comparative data. To further enable real-time model training, testing, and performance visualization, a unique graphical user interface (GUI) was created, offering a useful tool for interactive antenna optimization. This system provides a solid basis for data-driven improvements in advanced engineering applications by showcasing how ML models combined with Bayesian tuning can successfully handle challenging antenna design problems.
The effect of preoperative body weight loss on 5-year bariatric surgery outcomes
Authors: Flores Lilliam , Andreu Alba , Olbeyra Romina , Cañizares Silvia , Claro Maria , Rios Jose , Molero Judith , Jimenez Amanda , Vidal Josep
Published: December 2024

Objectives This study aimed to evaluate the effect of preoperative total body weight loss (TBWL) following a structured 6-month lifestyle change program (LCP) on operation time, hospital stay, surgical complications, obesity-associated pathology remission, and the achievement and maintenance of BWL at 12 and 60 months post-bariatric surgery (BS). Methods This retrospective, single-center study analyzed patients undergoing primary BS between 2013 and 2014. Outcomes were compared between patients participating in the LCP (LCP group) and those receiving standard preoperative education (Control group: CG). Data collected included anthropometric measurements, obesity-related pathologies, surgical complications, and weight-related outcomes.
Results Among 340 BS procedures performed, 165 patients met the inclusion criteria, with 59 in the LCP group and 106 in the CG. The mean age was 47 (±11.6) years in the LCP group and 45 (±11.1) years in the CG with no significant differences in baseline clinical characteristics. At surgery, the LCP group showed significant weight reduction (-5.9 kg vs. -0.72 kg in controls, p = 0.008) and their BMI was significantly lower (46.55 vs. 49.47 kg/m², p = 0.002). Postoperatively, weight-related outcomes [BWL, BMI and TBWL] were better in the LCP group at 1 and 5 years. Additionally, patients achieved a preoperative TBWL >5% demonstrated a significantly lower weight and BMI, along with a higher postoperative TBWL. Surgical complications were minimal, with no significant differences in 30-day complication rates. We did not observe a greater resolution of comorbidities in patients who participated in the LCP or those who achieved a preoperative TBWL > 5%.
Conclusions while current evidence suggests that preoperative BWL provides short-term benefits, our data suggest this may also be the case for TBWL in the long-term. Further research is needed to fully elucidate the role of preoperative BWL in comorbidity resolution in BS patients.
Effect of heating medium and pressure on the set recovery and physicochemical properties of surface- compressed Chinese fir
Authors: Li Jing , Huang Rongfeng , Zhang Shuangbao
Published: December 2024

Pressurized heat treatment is an effective modification method for reducing the deformation recovery of compressed wood. In this study, the set-recovery behavior, physicochemical and mechanical properties were studied for Chinese fir (Cunninghamia lanceolata (Lamb.) Hook) subjected to surface compression treatment followed by pressurized heat treatment. The surface compression of wood was conducted in an open hot press with compression ratio of 33%, followed by pressurized heat treatment at 180℃ with different heating medium (nitrogen, steam, and nitrogen-steam mixed gas) under varying pressures of 0.1 MPa, 0.3 MPa, and 0.5 MPa. The resulted showed that the compressed layer density, the modulus of rupture (MOR), and the modulus of elasticity (MOE) of surface-compressed wood increased by about 55.56%, 56.60% and 30.90%, respectively, compared with the uncompressed wood. At a higher heating medium pressures of 0.5 MPa with steam, the set-recovery of surface-compressed (SC) wood induced by immersion and boiling in water were reduced by 88.03% and 70.11%, respectively, compared to the SC wood without pressurized heat treatment. Under the same medium pressure, SC wood treated with steam exhibited reduced set recovery than that treated with nitrogen and a nitrogen-steam mixed gas. It should be noted that incorporating nitrogen as a heating medium during the steam heat treatment process can reduce educe surface discoloration and improve mechanical properties while permanently fixing more than 70% of the compressive deformation of wood.
Short-Term Load Forecasting for Smart Grid based on Bidirectional-LSTM Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Zafar Saima , Hashmi Shahwaiz Ahmed , Ayub Rana Hamza , Farooq Hasan
Published: December 2024

The traditional power grid is evolving into a smart grid, integrating advanced two-way communication technologies and a greater proportion of renewable energy sources, resulting in a more dynamic and flexible network. Accurate load forecasting is crucial for effective operation, planning, and management of the smart grid. Short-term load forecasting (STLF) is particularly challenging due to the high variability and unpredictability in individual consumer behavior, which can impact forecasting accuracy and complicate daily operations and scheduling. Advanced deep learning techniques offer a promising solution to this problem by improving the accuracy of STLF. In this paper, we introduce an ensemble forecasting framework that combines the convolutional neural network (CNN) with a bidirectional long short-term memory (BiLSTM) recurrent neural network with dynamic weight adjustment (DWA). The CNN layers extract features from the data, the DWA layer multiplies the extracted features by their respective dynamic weights before passing them to the BiLSTM model which enhances the forecasting accuracy by capturing both past and future temporal dependencies. We evaluate this framework using a high-resolution real residential smart meter readings dataset and compare its performance against standalone and hybrid models. Our results demonstrate that the BiLSTM-based framework outperforms LSTM-based and traditional approaches in key metrics, including mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) with an improvement of MAPE by 1.99% against the benchmark CNN-LSTM model. This underscores our model's superior accuracy and reliability for STLF, marking a significant advancement over traditional methods. Our model effectively enhances forecasting accuracy in smart grid applications.
Serum Amino Acid Alterations in Hyperuricemia: Potential Targets for Renal Disease Prevention
Authors: Sheng Qinglin , Ma Yuqing , Geng Bingjie , Chen Jiahui , Cheng Junfei , liu Su , Li Rui , Li Xiangtong , Wang Jing , Lu Hongtao , Gao Fangyuan , Gao Fu
Published: December 2024

Background
Observational studies have linked uric acid (UA) levels and kidney disease to amino acid homeostasis, but the causal relationship is unclear. This study aims to determine if elevated UA affects amino acid levels and whether amino acids mediate this relationship, focusing on the causal links between UA, circulating amino acids, and kidney disease. Methods: This study utilized Uox-KO mice as a hyperuricemia model, assessed renal injury through blood biochemistry and pathology, analyzed serum amino acid changes via targeted amino acidomics, and employed Mendelian randomization to investigate the causal links between uric acid, amino acids, and renal disease. Results: Hyperuricemic Uox-KO mice have significantly higher serum UA and renal impairment markers, with histopathological analysis showing extensive renal tissue damage. Changes in amino acid balance were found in the mice's serum, with key metabolites like alanine, isoleucine, leucine, aspartic acid, cysteine, glutamate, and glycine potentially influencing UA pathophysiology.Genetically predicted UA was positively correlated with chronic renal failure (CRF) and blood urea nitrogen(BUN) levels and negatively with serum cystatin C (eGFRcys) and serum creatinine (eGFRcrea). Alanine (Ala) mediated the effect of UA on elevated CRF and BUN risk, accounting for 4.5% of the UA-CRF relationship and 14.4% of the UA-BUN association. Conclusion: In hyperuricemic mice, serum amino acids undergo metabolic changes. Genetically predicted UA levels are positively linked to CRF and BUN, but negatively linked to eGFRcys and eGFRcrea. Ala mediates UA's effect on CRF and BUN risk, indicating Ala could be a target for preventing renal diseases caused by hyperuricemia.
Can Toll-like Receptor 4 Gene Polymorphi̇sm Play a Role in Pathogenesi̇s of Breast Cancer?
Authors: Arpacı Erkan , Celik Sevim Karakas
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the most common cause of death from cancer in women worldwide. Dynamic interplay between tumors and the immune system is essential for tumor survival, growth, and metastasis. The immune system is known to play a major role in preventing tumor progression by recognizing tumor antigens, and dysregulation of immune system activity could contribute to tumorigenesis. Recent studies have shown that dysregulation of innate immunity receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in the activation of natural and adaptive immunity in response to endogenous hazard signals from pathogens and damaged or dead cells. These receptors are expressed in the immune system cells and some epithelial cells. Recent studies have shown that these receptors are also exaggerated in malignant breast cancer cells. Many studies have shown that the TLR4 gene expression is increased in breast cancer cells, but also associated with metastasis. However, there is no study that could correlate TLR4 gene polymorphisms with breast cancer.
Materials and methods: We conducted a case study with 100 patients and 100 healthy subjects and planned to investigate whether there is a relationship between TLR4 gene polymorphisms [rs4986790 (Asp299Gly) ve rs4986791 (Thr399Ile)] and breast cancer. In this study, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method was used for gene polymorphisms.
Results: It was observed that there was relationship between breast cancer and TLR4 gene polymorphisms . Because TLR-4 plays an active role in the innate immune system, the loss of function of this protein may lead to a depressed immune response, thus promoting cancer development.
Research on 3D LiDAR Outdoor SLAM Algorithm Based on LiDAR/IMU Tight Coupling
Authors: Darong Zhu , Qi Wang , Fangbin Wang , Xue Gong
Published: December 2024

Aiming at the problems of easy loss of GPS positioning signals in outdoor environments and inaccurate map construction and position drift of traditional SLAM algorithms in outdoor scenes, this paper proposes a 3D LiDAR and inertial guidance tightly coupled SLAM algorithm. Firstly, IMU forward propagation is used to predict the current position, then backward propagation is used to compensate the motion distortion in the LiDAR data, and the point cloud alignment residuals are constructed based on the GICP algorithm, and then the Iterative Error State Kalman Filter (IESKF) algorithm is utilized to complete the fusion of the point cloud residuals and the a priori position obtained from the forward propagation of the Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to complete the state updating, and then the front-end fusion odometer is constructed. front-end fused odometry. Then, a sparse voxel nearest neighbor structure iVox-based method is used to select key frames and construct local maps to utilize the spatial information during frame-map matching, thus reducing the point cloud alignment time consuming. Then, the front-end odometry and loopback detection factor are used together to complete the global factor map optimization. Finally, the robustness and accuracy of this paper's algorithm are verified in campus field scenes and outdoor open-source dataset KITTI, and compared with the current mainstream algorithms FAST-LIO2 and LIO-SAM. The results show that the algorithm proposed in this paper has smaller cumulative error, higher localization accuracy, and better visualization with higher robustness in the campus scene.
Traditionelle Prämissen und neue Medienwelt
Authors: Mai Manfred
Published: December 2024

Die deutsche Mediengesetzgebung beruht auf den Konsequenzen, die die damaligen Besatzungsmächte für eine Neuordnung des Rundfunks ziehen wollten. Als Strukturprinzipien wurden Föderalismus, Staatsferne und Binnenpluralismus festgeschrieben. In dem Beitrag sollen traditionelle Prämissen des deutschen Rundfunksystems vor dem Hintergrund der gegenwärtigen Struktur des Mediensystems reflektiert werden. Droht überhaupt noch die Gefahr eines Missbrauchs durch eine Partei, wenn es Hunderte von Kanälen im WWW gibt und sich die Produktions- sowie Rezeptionsgewohnheiten radikal geändert haben?
Schoett, Silja (2009). Medienbiograf ie und Familie – Jugendliche erzählen. Theorie und Methode der medienbiograf ischen Fallrekonstruktion. Berlin: LIT Verlag. 246 Seiten, 24,90 €
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Lisa und Mandy erzählen ihre Lebensgeschichte – und ihre Mediengeschichte. Die Autorin Silja Schoett stellt die von den Mädchen gelesenen Bücher und gesehenen Filme in Zusammenhang mit der ganz persönlichen Lebensgeschichte und stellt heraus, dass Familiengeschichte und Familiendynamik das jeweilige Medienhandeln begründen, mit dem im Fall von Lisa und Mandy schwierige biografische und familienbiografische Themen verarbeitet werden.Was zunächst etwas weit hergeholt klingt, erscheint vor dem theoretischen und methodischenHintergrund der Lese- und Medienbiografie, über den die Autorin zum Einstieg einen breiten Überblick verschafft, doch recht nachvollziehbar. Plausibel schildert Schoett zudem, wie und vor allem warum sie für die Empirie ihr Instrument der medienbiografischen Fallrekonstruktion entwickelte. Das Konzept fußt auf der grundlegenden Annahme, dass Medienhandeln biografisch strukturiert ist und damit die Ausbildung von Mediennutzungsmustern an lebensgeschichtliche Verläufe und deren Rahmenbedingungen gebunden ist. Methodisch umgesetzt wird das durch biografisch-narrative und medienbiografisch-narrative Interviews.
Durch die rekonstruktive Fallanalyse schließlich wird die Bedeutung einzelner Teile aus dem berichteten Gesamtzusammenhang interpretiert, wobei Hypothesen und Gegenhypothesen aufgestellt und im Verlauf des sequenziellen Vorgehens entweder bestätigt oder verworfen und ergänztwerden. Es wird sowohl die erzählte als auch die erlebte Lebens- und Mediengeschichte der zeitlichen Abfolge entsprechend analysiert. Nachdem die theoretischen und methodischen Grundsteine gelegt sind, lässt Silja Schoett Lisa und Mandy ausführlich zu Wort kommen. Lisa und Mandy sind zum Zeitpunkt der Befragung 18 bzw. 19 Jahre alt und haben auf den ersten Blick nicht viel gemeinsam. Doch Schoett zeigt, dass bei beiden Mädchen das Medienhandeln eng mit der eigenen Biografie verknüpft ist. Zum Teil sind Schoetts Erkenntnisse durchaus überraschend und nachvollziehbar, auch für ein Publikum, das der Methode der medienbiografischen Fallrekonstruktion eher kritisch gegenübersteht. Insgesamt ist Schoetts Werk empfehlenswert für Studierendesowie Literatur- und Medienwissenschaftlerinnen und -wissenschaftler, auch wenn der interpretative Ansatz manchmal vielleicht etwas gewagte Rückschlüsse zieht, bei denen es fraglich ist, ob diese empirisch bestehen können.