bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patrol Boat Strengthening Against a Collision with COLL Notation Based on Class Rules and Regulation in Indonesia – An Overview
Authors: Fuadi Abid Paripurna , Muttaqie Teguh , Nugroho Andi Cahyo Prasetyo Tri , Kusuma Yudiawan Fajar , Mukti Suherman , Kurniawan Mohammad Arif , Firmandha Topan , Ismail Muhammad
Published: August 2024

Indonesian maritime security and law enforcement rely frequently on Patrol boats. However, collisions can occur during the operation, leading to potential loss of life, damage to the ship, and environmental harm. In preventing such incidents, the government needs to strengthen the patrol boats against collisions in accordance with class rules and regulations in Indonesia.The COLL notation is an additional notation for vessel collision protection, which specifies the required strength of the vessel's hull and structural components to minimize the risk of damage and reduce the consequences of a collision. This study highlights the key areas that require strengthening, including the vessel’s bow, stern, and hull, as well as the propulsion system that needs to be considered in the design stage. The addition of collision bulkheads, increasing the hull plating thickness, and reinforcing the engine mounts and shafting are also necessary to ensure the vessel's safety against collision. In conclusion, strengthening patrol boats against a collision with COLL notation based on class rules and regulations in Indonesia is one of the methods available that can be applied for the design stage to increase the level of operational safety of patrol boats.
Detection of Beaded Karst Caves in Subway Works by Mixed-Source Surface Wave Survey: A Case Study
Authors: Liu Yaohui , Li Shuchen , Li Luoning , Li Zhen
Published: August 2024

Karst cave causes geological disasters in tunneling engineering, which brings great risks to subway construction. The microtremor survey has become one of the main methods for karst cave detection in urban areas due to its convenience and great detection depth. However, the microtremor survey lacks high-frequency signals, resulting in poor detection accuracy on the shallow layer. An advanced method called mixed-source surface wave (MSW) method is proposed by imposing active sources during the continuous passive surface wave survey. MSW is applied to the detection of beaded karst caves (i.e. two or three karst caves at different depths in the same location) in Ji'nan, China. The influences of ambient noise, array type, and other factors on the detection accuracy were studied. Experimental results show that the detection depth and accuracy of MSW are much better than those of passive surface wave method. The inversion accuracy of linear array perpendicular to road is better than the triangle array and L-shaped array. The accuracy of the linear array along the road is worst. The detection accuracy of MSW is similar to that of combined active–passive surface wave methods. However, the basic principle of MSW is easier to understand, and its operation is more convenient. The two-dimensional measurement results show that the MSW method can well reflect the size and location of the beaded karst cave and provide important references for the practical engineering.
How Environmental Regulation Promotes Industrial Structure Upgrading – An empirical study based on the mediating effect method
Authors: Yu Xiao , Zhang Xing , Li Yong
Published: August 2024

To overcome the problems of environmental pollution and energy shortage that have accumulated in the extensive economic growth model, the Chinese government is seeking to optimize the industrial structure by strengthening environmental regulations. However, how environmental regulations promote industrial structure upgrading has not yet been carefully explained. Therefore, this study empirically tests the influence of environmental regulation on industrial structure upgrading using mediating models. The results show that environmental regulation can stimulate industrial structure upgrading, not only directly but also through the mediating effects of technological innovation and global value chain embeddedness. Moreover, the effect of environmental regulation on industrial structure upgrading shows regional heterogeneity. Therefore, we propose promoting regional industrial structure upgrading through the following methods: constructing an inclusive environmental regulation system, improving scientific and technological innovation, exploring a flexible and free system of opening-up, and accelerating the construction of the domestic demand system.
Mouse model of uncoupled bone remodeling upon discontinuation of anti-RANKL antibody therapy
Authors: Negishi-Koga Takako , Ishikawa Koji , Tani Soji , Sakai Nobuhiro , Kudo Yoshifumi , Horiuchi Hideyo , Kimura-Suda Hiromi , Takami Masamichi , Tsuji Mayumi , Inagaki Katsunori , Kiuchi Yuji
Published: August 2024

The discontinuation of denosumab (anti-RANKL antibody) therapy may increase the risk of multiple vertebral fractures, however, the underlying pathophysiology is largely unknown. Eight patients who underwent discontinuation after multiple injections of denosumab had higher levels of TRAP-5b, the so-called “overshoot” phenomenon, compared to their pre-treatment levels. The rate of decrease in bone mineral density (BMD) during the withdrawal period was higher than in age-matched non-treated patients, suggesting a decrease in BMD independent of age-related physiological bone metabolism. Overshoot and significant bone loss were also observed in mice receiving continuous anti-RANKL antibody administration after treatment was interrupted, resembling the original pathology. In mice long out of overshoot, bone resorption recovered, but osteoblast numbers and bone formation remained markedly reduced. The bone marrow exhibited a significant reduction in Sca-1- and PDGFRα-expressing osteoblast progenitors (PαS cells) and ALP-positive early osteoblasts. Just before the overshoot phase, the osteoclast precursor cell population expands and RANKL-bearing extracellular vesicles (EVs) became abundant in the serum, leading to robust osteoclastogenesis after cessation of anti-RANKL treatment. Thus, accelerated bone resorption due to the accumulation of RANKL-bearing EVs and long-term suppression of bone formation uncoupled from bone resorption leads to the severe bone loss that is characteristic of denosumab discontinuation.
A bibliometric analysis of the effects of sex hormone profiles in women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: li bo , Li Shuang , Duan zibo , Yu hui , Zhou Yan , Lin xiaohua
Published: August 2024

Background：Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the common causes of infertility in pregnant women, which is regulated by sex hormones. This has had a serious negative impact on the quality of life of women of childbearing age and has placed a burden on families and society. Therefore, the study of the impact of sex hormones on PCOS has important research value, social value and practical significance. The objective of this study is to evaluate published articles through the utilization of bibliometrics, generate a comprehensive and methodical overview of the current status and emerging subjects in this field, and predict the trajectory and future focus of research in this area.
Methods: This investigation utilized the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database to locate relevant articles published prior to November 24, 2023. CiteSpace, Biblimetric, and VOSViewer were applications utilized in the bibliometric analysis process.
Results: The analysis incorporated 1835 publications from 2013 institutions in 80 countries, with China and the United States being the most prominent. The aforementioned field of study has experienced a period of exponential growth since 2017. Journal of Gynecological Endocrinology publishes the greatest number of articles concerning the effects of sex hormones on PCOS.The impact factor of FERTILITY AND STERILITY is the greatest among the leading ten journals. A total of 10605 authors were credited for these works, with Ricardo Azziz being the most cited and Legro being the most prolific. The principal areas of investigation in this discipline pertain to pathological processes and complications. Current usage includes the terms "insulin resistance," "women," "prevalence," "polycystic ovary syndrome," "obesity," "risk," "expression," and "testosterone" to denote research trends and hotspots.
Conclusion: Research on the effects of sex hormone on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) possesses both societal and scientific merit. The rate of its progress is accelerating, and a growing cohort of scholars are devoting their attention to this field. By employing bibliometric analysis, this study identified the current hot topics in this field, predicted the future development trend, and summarized and analyzed the research on the influence of sex hormones on PCOS, including its hot spots, trends, and development process.
Design and Experimental Study of Flexion StiffnessDesign and Experimental Study of Flexion Stiffness Testing Device for Alpine Ski-Boots Testing Device for Alpine Ski-Boots
Authors: Luo Chunyang , Zeng Yongyang , Li Hailian , Chong Perk , Wang Xiaoping , Wang Xiaochang , Li Jianyong
Published: August 2024

Objectives: Currently, the accuracy of ski boot flexion stiffness measurement device is less than satisfactory, as the perpendicularity of loading direction to the dummy foot and the consistency of ski boot binding force cannot be guaranteed. Therefore, the overall aim is to design and build a testing device for the flexion stiffness of ski boots. Specifically, the objectives were to (i) provide a CAD design of key components of the flexion stiffness testing equipment with the support of finite element analysis. (ii) practically build the flexion stiffness testing equipment. (iii) to investigate the reliability of flexion stiffness test equipment and the effect of ski boot snap tightness.
Design and method: Design L-shaped components in a way that guarantees the direction of the loading force remains perpendicular to the dummy foot loading bar while undergoing testing.Design binding adjustment unit to control the effect of ski boot snap tightness on flexion stiffness test results.To obtain the standard set load (120N) of this test device by analyzing the stability and accuracy of Q-value distribution of ski boot test samples under different set loads (60N~200N), and then to evaluate the test effect of the device by testing three different flexion stiffness values of ski boots under the standard set load. Different binding forces (0~60N) were set to study the effect of the looseness of ski boot snaps on the flexion stiffness test results.
Conclusion: Under standard set load conditions, the relative standard deviation (RSD) of the Q-value test results for three different flexion stiffness values of ski boots were less than 1% and the distribution points were basically within the 95.44% prediction band, indicating that the device has high testing accuracy and reliability.The device is capable of adjusting the amount of binding force to quantify the effect of ski boot binding tightness on ski boot flexion stiffness test results.The experimental results show that the tightness of the ski boot buckle can have a negative correlation on the deflection angle of the ski boot under test.
Demystifying Turnover Prediction: How ResidualError Characteristics Shape Model Performance
Authors: aicha anis ben , Kacem Fadi , Boutahar Mohammed , Bennady Youssef
Published: August 2024

Employee turnover, particularly the loss of highly skilled personnel, poses a crit-ical challenge for organizations, leading to decreased productivity and increasedrecruitment costs. Several intelligent systems are designed to predict voluntaryemployee churn. These methods typically follow a two-step approach: data col-lection and prediction algorithm design. System performance is often evaluatedusing conventional metrics like accuracy, precision, and recall. However, a cru-cial limitation exists: these metrics primarily assess the algorithm’s effectiveness,potentially neglecting the fundamental importance of data quality. This paperemphasizes the critical role of data quality in employee turnover prediction sys-tems. It is obvious that poor data quality, arising from inadequate preparationor missing essential features, can significantly degrade system performance. Toilluminate this relationship, we propose the analysis of residual errors. This statis-tical approach provides a valuable supplementary tool for advanced performanceanalysis, enabling us to quantify the quality of the data fed into the predictionalgorithm. By incorporating residual error analysis, we can gain a more compre-hensive understanding of prediction systems’s performance and identify potentialdata quality issues. This, could facilitate the development of more robust andreliable employee turnover prediction models.
Tailored and sustainable bio-composite thanks to synergetic interactions of Polycaprolactone (PCL) and Guar Gum derivative
Authors: Assimi Taha El , Boutriouia El Hassan , Jalit Iliass , Chekroun Abir , Khouloud Mehdi , Beniazza Redouane , Meziane Abdellatif El , Youcef Hicham Ben , Blažic Roko , Vidović Elvira , Lahcini Mohammed
Published: August 2024

In this research study, we describe the synthesis of new and tailored bio-composite materials by leveraging the synergistic interaction between polycaprolactone (PCL) and carboxymethyl hydroxypropyl guar gum (CMHPG). The proposed approach involves the in-situ ring opening polymerization (ROP) of ε-caprolactone, enabling the grafting of high molecular weight PCL chains (100 Kg.mol− 1) onto CMHPG using a highly stable tin-based catalyst. The successful covalent association between the hydrophobic PCL chains and the hydrophilic CMHPG polysaccharide was confirmed. In addition, comprehensive structural (FTIR, DLS, contact angle and DRX), thermal (TGA and DSC), and mechanical characterizations were performed to investigate the synergistic effects between PCL and CMHPG. Notably, by precisely controlling the amount of CMHPG filler incorporated during synthesis, we achieved tailored performance in terms of film hydrophobicity and controlled biodegradability kinetics. These findings underscore the significant potential of the developed PCL bio-composites for specialized applications such as coatings, surface engineering, and the production of antifouling or repellent materials.
Enhancement of n-3 PUFAs utilization for functional meat production in slow-growing Korat chicken: evaluation of characteristics of glucose transporter-targeted lipid nanoparticles
Authors: Homyok Piyaradtana , Kamkaew Anyanee , Yata Teerapong , Treesuppharat Worapapar , Ariyachayut Apipu , Baéza Elisabeth , Berri Cécile , Molee Amonrat , Molee Wittawat
Published: August 2024

The aim of this research was to investigate the synthesis of suitable carrier of nanoparticles for improving the utilization of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) source in chicken diets. Lipid nanoparticles were successfully prepared with two different n-3 oil sources, tuna and algal oils using hot and high-pressure homogenization method. Four preparations were defined as followed: non-targeting lipid nanoparticles containing tuna oil (TO_NPs), non-targeting lipid nanoparticles containing algal oil (AO_NPs), targeting lipid nanoparticles containing tuna oil (TO_TNPs) and targeting lipid nanoparticles containing algal oil (AO_TNPs). A second study was conducted for the targeting procedure, the treatments as followed: Control, TO_NPs and TO_TNPs. Thirty-three slow-growing chickens were examined during the post-administration kinetic at 2, 4, 8, 12 and 24 h. The physicochemical characteristics of lipid nanoparticles, storage stability and in vivo biodistribution were evaluated. The results showed that the particle diameters of TO_NPs and AO_NPs were 223.7 and 294.4 nm, whereas the particle diameters of TO_TNPs and AO_TNPs were 134.7 and 184.0 nm, respectively. The polydispersity index (PDI) and zeta-potential of nanoparticles showed a good distribution and stability in colloid dispersions, respectively. Moreover, the nanoparticles of the TNPs groups were less susceptible to lipid oxidation than that of the NPs groups during a storage at 4°C. The study of the biodistribution based on the Nile red intensity and the determination of n-3 PUFAs composition in chicken meat confirmed the effectiveness of targeted lipid-based nanoparticles to transport directly fatty acids into the skeletal muscle cells of chicken.
The prognostic significance of Twist in pancreatic cancer and its role in cancer promotion through the regulation of the immune microenvironment and EMT mechanisms
Authors: Li Qing , Liu Yu , Zhi Renhou , Wang Yinquan
Published: August 2024

Objective
The limited immunogenicity of pancreatic cancer (PAAD) contributes to its low responsiveness to immunotherapy, yet its underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Twist, known for its involvement in tumor EMT and advancement, plays a significant role. The interplay between EMT and the tumor microenvironment (TME) emerges as a pivotal factor influencing tumor immunity and response to immunotherapy. Twist therefore has potential as a biomarker for gauging the outcome of tumour immunotherapy.This research aimed to assess the Twist's prognostic significance in PAAD and its relationship to immunotherapy response.
Methods
Transcriptional data and epigenetic alterations of Twist in pancreatic cancer, along with their impact on the prognosis of PAAD patients, were analyzed using databases. Functional enrichment analysis elucidated the biological role of Twist in PAAD. Subsequently, databases including CIBERSORT and TIDE were employed to investigate the association between Twist expression and immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, and immunotherapy sensitivity within the pancreatic cancer immune microenvironment.
Results
Twist mRNA expression was notably upregulated in PAAD, positively correlating with gene methylation levels. Analyses of Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression showed a correlation between better overall survival and lower Twist expression. Functional annotation indicated that Twist-associated differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were involved in EMT regulation and acute inflammation. Twist expression potentially impacts the therapeutic response to immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). Furthermore, Twist was significantly overexpressed in pancreatic cancer cell lines and tissues, exhibiting a negative correlation with E-cadherin expression.
Conclusion
High Twist expression in PAAD signifies a grim prognosis. Its elevated levels not only contribute to tumor progression through EMT induction but also exert regulatory control over the immune microenvironment, leading to immunosuppression and diminished effectiveness of immunotherapy.
Welcome to the Operating Theatre! Introductory Bootcamp in Operating Theatre Specialities for Medical Students
Authors: Buscail Etienne , Bolzinger Manon , Shourick Jason , Lier Marie Laure , Sautier Phillipe , Delhoste Magali , Muscari Fabrice , Carrère Nicolas , Maulat Charlotte , Dalmas Yoann , Brinas Pierre , Prudhomme Thomas , Podio Cyril , Houze-Cerfon Charles-Henri , Rauzy Odile , Geeraerts Thomas , Abbo Olivier
Published: August 2024

INTRODUCTION
Since the early 2000's, the appeal of certain operating room specialties has waned among medical school graduate students. The recent reform of the second and third cycles of medical studies in France provides an opportunity to set up teaching programs around operating room specialties. We have set up a teaching unit which is part of the final year of medical studies. The main objectives are: (1) to examine whether a boot camp can modify students' opinions, and preconceived assumptions about a surgical and/or anesthetist career (2) to determine whether these changes in perception, have an impact on students' interest in pursuing a surgical/anesthetic career compared with the initial situation.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
The boot camp working in the operating theatre (UETB) takes place after the written exams of the sixth of medical school, before the choice of the future specialty for residency. This program, includes practical workshops, readings and time for exchanges with those in charge of supervising surgeon and anesthetist. At the beginning and at the end of the UETB, questionnaire was collected.
RESULTS
The cohort included 59 students at the Toulouse medical school, academic year 2023–2024. After participation in the UETB there was a significant qualitative improvement in interest in a surgical and intensive care-anesthesia career. Concerning the help provided by UETB in choosing a future specialty, there was a statistically significant qualitative improvement. The final test point related to students’ perception of the difficulty of acquiring a work-life balance, there was a significant qualitative improvement.
CONCLUSION
The results of this study make a strong case for integrating additional exposure to the various surgical subspecialties into the graduate medical curriculum in France. By helping to dispel misperceptions of “a surgical/anesthetist career” early on, opportunities such as the UETB program may be able to address the attrition rate observed among surgical and anesthetic residency applications.
Association of Dietary Niacin Intake with All-cause and Cardiovascular Mortality in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Chi yongqian , Lu Zhen , Liang Cuicui , Xuan Chao , Xu Fengqiang , Luo Congjuan , Lian Zhexun , Ji Hongwei , Guo Junjie
Published: August 2024

Background
Niacin, also known as vitamin B3 or nicotinic acid (NA), exhibits beneficial effects on factors influencing the decline of kidney function. In chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients, the relationship between dietary niacin and mortality prognosis remains unclear.
Methods
The study involved 2,962 CKD patients from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2018 and followed for survival through December 31, 2019. Cox proportional hazards models were utilized to explore the association between dietary niacin intake and both all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality. Additionally, restricted cubic splines and subgroup analyses were performed.
Results
During a median follow-up of 5.7 years, 631 deaths including 229 CVD deaths were recorded. In multivariable-adjusted Cox models, highest quartile of niacin intake compared with lowest quartile was associated with lower mortality risk. Hazard ratios were 0.71 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.53–0.97) for all-cause mortality (P = 0.044 for trend) and 0.61 (95% CI, 0.41–0.91) for CVD mortality (P = 0.020 for trend).
Conclusions
The findings of this cohort study indicate a potential association between increased dietary niacin intake and reduced all-cause and cardiovascular mortality among patients with CKD.
Predicting Diabetes in Adults: Identifying Important Features in Unbalanced Data Over a 5-Year Cohort Study Using Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Moghaddam Maryam Talebi , Jahani Yones , Arefzadeh Zahra , Dehghan Azizallah , Khaleghi Mohsen , Sharafi Mehdi , Nikfar Ghasem
Published: August 2024

Background
Imbalanced datasets pose significant challenges in predictive modeling, leading to biased outcomes and reduced model reliability. This study addresses data imbalance in diabetes prediction using machine learning techniques. Utilizing data from the Fasa Adult Cohort Study (FACS) with a 5-year follow-up of 10,000 participants, we developed predictive models for Type 2 diabetes.
Methods
We employed various data-level and algorithm-level interventions, including SMOTE, ADASYN, SMOTEENN and KMeans SMOTE, paired with Random Forest, Gradient Boosting, and Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP). Performance was evaluated using F1 score, AUC, and G-means.
Results
Our results show that ADASYN with MLP achieved an F1 score of 82.17 ± 3.38, AUC of 89.61 ± 2.09, and G-means of 89.15 ± 2.31. SMOTE with MLP followed closely with an F1 score of 79.85 ± 3.91, AUC of 89.7 ± 2.54, and G-means of 89.31 ± 2.78. The SMOTEENN with Random Forest combination achieved an F1 score of 78.27 ± 1.54, AUC of 87.18 ± 1.12, and G-means of 86.47 ± 1.28.
Conclusion
These combinations effectively address class imbalance, improving the accuracy and reliability of diabetes predictions. The findings highlight the importance of using appropriate data-balancing techniques in medical data analysis.
Application of 3D vision and networking technology for measuring the positional accuracy of industrial robots
Authors: Huang Hsueh-Liang
Published: August 2024

In this study, a system for measuring the positional accuracy of industrial robots using 3D vision and networking technology has been proposed. The 3D vision system comprises a Charge Coupled Device (CCD) module, a reference sphere module, and a signal processing module. The reference sphere module serves as the sensing object, while the CCD module captures displacement images of the reference sphere module. The signal processing module receives and processes signals from the CCD module. It interfaces with a self-developed programming interface to calculate the X, Y, Z, θx, and θy (five-degree-of-freedom, 5-DOF) positional accuracy of the industrial robot.
Experimental results demonstrate that the linear accuracy (X, Y, Z) and angular accuracy (θx, θy) of the 3D vision system are approximately 3 μm and 0.15 degrees, respectively. Additionally, a networking architecture connects the controller of the machine tool with the industrial robot to enable synchronized motion path planning. The industrial robot can be calibrated using the high-precision machine tool equipped with the 3D vision-based positional accuracy measurement system.
Novel Nicotintaldehyde Derivatives via Pd (0) Catalyzed Suzuki Coupling Approach; Characterization, DFT and Molecular Docking and evaluation of anti-antibiofilm, antiquorum sensing activities against Oral pathogens
Authors: Ullah Aman , Amin Adnan , Aiman Ume , Rab Safia Obaidur , Rehman Fazal Ur , Awais Sofia , Aziz Qaiser , Adeel Muhammad , Ullah Niamat , Ahmad Rashid
Published: August 2024

A very efficient Pd-built catalytic system for the Suzuki Miyaura SM coupling of nicotinaldehydes were developed under gentle reaction conditions. Analytical techniques included FTIR, Uv-Visible, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR, whereas computational analysis used during the investigation involved density functional (DFT), Molecular docking PASS, ADMET and drug likeness. In the current investigation, new nicotinaldehyde compounds i;e 2-(2,3-dimethylphenyl) nicotinaldehyde DMPN, 2-(3-bromophenyl) nicotinaldehyde BrPN, 2-(4-(tert-butyl)-[1, 1-biphenyl]-4-yl) nicotinaldehyde tBuBPN were synthesized. In computational analysis HOMO-LUMO band gaps (Egap) were obtained in the range of 0.14947–0.15888 eV. By using spectroscopic analysis such as FTIR, Uv-Visible, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR, the structures of new synthesized composites were verified. Molecular docking of compounds revealed stable strong interaction with 1JIJ and 2XET. All drug molecules followed drug likeness rules and PASS analysis revealed significant antimicrobial potential high confidence interval (0.329–0.751). The antimicrobial evaluation of tested molecules revealed significant inhibition of oral pathogens including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus chungangensis1, Bacillus paramycoides, Bacillus chungangensis2 and Paenibacillus dendritiformis (MIC 1.56–49.2µg/mL). Further significant antibiofilm were recorded in case of DMPN (1.56–6.24 µg/mL) and M2 (MIC 1.56–6.24 µg/mL), whereas all three compounds presented moderate (54–57%) antiquorum sensing activity. It was therefore concluded that compounds DMPN and BrPN possessed strong activities against oral pathogens.
Is Middle East Pain Syndrome (MEPS) a Variant of Fibromyalgia Syndrome or a Distinct Disease?
Authors: Elhamamy Mona H. , Elbeialy Adel A. , Mohamed Maha S. , Abdelraheem Sabah E. , Elzomor Hala M.
Published: August 2024

Objective: Fibromyalgia Syndrome (FMS) is a chronic disabling musculoskeletal condition of unknown aetiology characterized by generalized musculoskeletal pain, extreme fatigue, mood disturbance, impaired cognition, and lack of refreshing sleep. Middle East pain syndrome (MEPS) is a vitamin D3 deficiency-induced hyperparathyroidism and fibromyalgia mimicking rheumatoid arthritis, characterized by the radiological presence of spur-like excrescences in terminal phalanges. This study aimed to explore the inflammatory nature of MEPS and FMS.
Methods: Eighty primary fibromyalgia patients were included in this study. They were divided into two groups, group (1) of 40 FMS patients with low vitamin D levels and secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT), which were diagnosed as MEPS (2), and group (2) of 40 primary FMS patients with normal vitamin D and PTH levels. They were subjected to full medical history taking, clinical examination and laboratory assessment including serum IL-17 by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique, as well as assessment of enthesopathy using musculoskeletal ultrasound and nailfold capillaroscopic pattern assessment. Plain X-ray films for hands were done on all patients.
Results: There was a statistically significant elevation of serum IL17 in the MEPS group (median = 58.3 ng/L) compared to the FMS group (median = 45.7 ng/L) as the p-value is <0.05. Capillaroscopic examination revealed a statistically significant difference between MEPS and FMS groups regarding angiogenesis as the p-value is< 0.05. The ultrasonographic examination also showed a statistically significant difference between MEPS and FMS groups as regards MASEI score as the p-value is< 0.05.
Conclusion: Elevated IL-17 levels, non-scleroderma pattern capillaroscopic and enthesopathy findings in both MEPS and FMS patients are strongly supportive that inflammatory mechanisms participate in the pathogenesis of both diseases. The significant increase of these findings in MEPS than FMS patients confirms that the newly discovered MEPS is a different disease although it involves fibromyalgia symptoms and signs.
Removal of ammonium and phosphate from wastewater by potassium permanganate modified Chinese medicine residues
Authors: Chen Jiachen , Zhong Ze , Chen Weilin , Zhu Jie , Luo Kai , Zhang Jie , Li Yuqi
Published: August 2024

With the rapid development of the Chinese medicine industry, the treatment of Chinese medicine residues has received widespread attention. This study was performed to investigate the removal of ammonium and phosphate from wastewater using potassium permanganate (KMnO4) modified Chinese medicine residues. The results showed that the adsorption performance of KMnO4 modified Chinese medicine residues (MR) was significantly efficient on nitrogen and phosphorus from the wastewater compared to unmodified Chinese medicinal residues (UR). The optimal adsorption conditions for nitrogen and phosphorus by the MR were modification concentration 0.6 g/L, modification time 4 h, adsorption time 4 h, adsorbent dosage 5 g/L, adsorption particle size 0.50 mm and pH 8. In addition, the optimal initial concentrations of nitrogen and phosphorus were 40 mg/L and 10 mg/L, respectively. The nitrogen and phosphorus adsorption by the UR and MR followed the pseudo second-order kinetic model and fitted the Langmuir isotherm equation. It is of great significance for resource conservation and environmental protection through the rational utilization and development of biomass resources from Chinese medicinal residues.
Correlation between Pertussis Toxin IgG and Severity of Pertussis in Unvaccinated Chinese infant patients with acute pertussis
Authors: Gan Chuan , Zheng Gaihuan
Published: August 2024

Background：Vaccination-induced PT-IgG offers protective effects against pertussis, and there is an inverse correlation between antibody levels and disease severity. However, there is limited research exploring the relationship between PT-IgG levels and disease severity in unvaccinated children with acute pertussis.
Method：This study collected data from 302 unvaccinated children with acute pertussis. The aim was to investigate the relationship between disease-induced PT-IgG levels and the severity of pertussis.
Result：302 patients were divided into four groups based on their antibody levels. Most patients (83.77%) had antibody levels below 50.00IU/ml, while a smaller portion (16.23%) had levels above 50.00IU/ml. The length of hospital stay decreased significantly as antibody levels increased (P=0.044). Similar trends were observed for the highest WBC and Lymphocyte count during infection; and these differences were statistically significant (P<0.001 for both). There were no significant differences in the highest heart rate and respiratory rate among the patients (P=0.379 and P=0.963, respectively);Complication, including pneumonia, severe pneumonia, and respiratory failure, also showed no significant differences among the groups (P=0.400, P=0.158, and P=0.131, respectively).Raised C-reactive protein and raised Procalcitonin levels did not differ significantly between the groups (P=0.285 and P=0.170, respectively). Additionally, there were no significant differences in bacterial or viral co-infection rates among the groups (P=0.698 and P=0.623, respectively).
Conclusion：In Chinese infant patients with acute pertussis who have not received vaccination, the PT-IgG levels are predominantly below 50.00IU/ml. Despite the protective role of PT-IgG, higher antibody levels do not appear to significantly reduce the severity.
Temperature-dependent cytokine neutralization induced by magnetoelectric nanoparticles: an in silico study
Authors: Marrella Alessandra , Giannoni Paolo , Lenzuni Martina , Suarato Giulia , Fiocchi Serena , Chiaramello Emma , Ravazzani Paolo
Published: August 2024

Inflammatory cytokines cooperate to maintain normal immune homeostasis, performing both a protective and a pro-inflammatory action in different body districts. However, their excessive persistence or de-regulated expression may degenerate into tissue chronic inflammatory status. Advanced therapies should be designed to deploy selective cytokine neutralizers in the affected tissues. Magnetoelectric nanoparticles (MENPs) possess unexploited potentialities, conjugating their ferromagnetic nature, which enables confinement in a specific tissue by directed positioning when subjected to low-intensity magnetic fields, with the capability to generate high electric fields with elevated spatial resolution, when subjected to higher magnetic fields. This work proposes to exploit the extremely localized heat generated by Joule’s effect around MENPs under an external magnetic field to denature a harmful cytokine in a hypothetical tissue site. An interdisciplinary and multiphysics in silico study was conducted to provide a comprehensive modeling of the temperature distribution generated by MENPs decorated with a membrane-derived microvesicle (MV) coating designed to allocate a specific antibody to bind a target cytokine. A damage model was also implemented to provide an estimation of the influence of several design parameters on the cytokine denaturation efficacy, with the final goal to guide the future development of effective MENPs-based therapeutic applications and strategies.
Descriptive Analysis of Good Clinical Practice Inspection Findings from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority Running Title: SFDA GCP inspections
Authors: Arab Omaima O. , Aldayan Mohammed , Almowaizri Khalid , Alghamdi Ahmad , Alghamdi Jahad , Alharf Adel
Published: August 2024

Introduction
The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) conducts inspections in accordance with Good clinical practice (GCP) to safeguard clinical trial integrity and protect the rights, safety, and welfare of study participants. These inspections ensure trials are conducted in compliance with GCP and applicable laws.
Objectives
The study aims to provide a description of GCP inspection findings and to analyze their impact on clinical trials ecosystems, and provide recommendations to improve clinical trial conduction in Saudi.
Methods
A review was conducted on inspection reports, with two senior independent inspectors examined, collected and categorized the data. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the categorical variable by frequency distributions.
Results
A total of 131 GCP inspections were performed between 2017 and 2023. There was a total of 722 observations from 116 (88.5%) inspection visits, and the remaining 15 (11.5%) inspection visits had no observation. The highest number of visits were conducted in contract research organizations (CRO) (n=50; 38.2%) with 118 observations, followed by clinical investigator sites (n=46; 35.1%) with 313 observations, then bioequivalence centers (BE) (n=33; 25.2%) with 256 observations, and the last 2 (1.5%) visits were conducted in phase I clinical trials units with 35 observations.
Conclusion
This study assesses GCP inspection reports and examines the type of deficiencies and grades in each area. Observation findings category and grade vary by the type of organizations, which indicate the need for specific action plans addressing each organization type separately. This report provided recommendation based on the top most common findings to assist researchers and sponsors when conducting a clinical trial in Saudi Arabia.
Prediction model for spontaneous preterm birth less than 32 weeks of gestation in low-risk women with mid-trimester short cervical length
Authors: Huang Xiaoxiu , Zhou Yimin , Liu Bingqing , Huang Yuhui , Wang Mengni , Li Na , Li Baohua
Published: August 2024

Background
A short cervix in mid-trimester pregnancy is a risk factor for spontaneous preterm birth. However, there is currently a lack of predictive models and classification systems for predicting spontaneous preterm birth in these patients, especially those without additional risk factors for spontaneous preterm birth.
Methods
A retrospective observational cohort study of low-risk singleton pregnant women with a short cervix (≤ 25 mm) measured by mid-trimester fetal ultrasound scan between 22 and 24 weeks was conducted. A multivariate logistic regression model for spontaneous preterm birth < 32 weeks in low-risk pregnant women with a short cervix was constructed. Moreover, we developed a nomogram to visualize the prediction model and stratified patients into three low-, intermediate-, and high-risk groups based on the total score obtained from the nomogram model.
Results
Between 2020 and 2022, 213 low-risk women with a short cervix in mid-trimester pregnancy were enrolled in the study. Univariate logistic analysis revealed that a high body mass index, a history of three or more miscarriages, multiparity, a short cervical length, leukocytosis, and an elevated C-reactive protein level were associated with spontaneous preterm birth < 32 weeks, but multivariate analysis revealed that multiparity (OR, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.13–9.68), leukocytosis (OR, 3.96; 95% CI, 1.24–12.61) and a short cervical length (OR, 0.88; 95% CI, 0.82–0.94) were independent predictors of sPTB < 32 weeks. The model incorporating these three predictors displayed good discrimination and calibration, and the area under the ROC curve of this model was as high as 0.815 (95% CI, 0.700–0.931). Patients were stratified into low- (195 patients), intermediate- (14 patients) and high-risk (4 patients) groups according to the model, corresponding to patients with scores ≤ 120, 121–146, and > 146, respectively. The predicted probabilities of spontaneous preterm birth < 32 weeks for these groups were 6.38, 40.62, and 71.88%, respectively.
Conclusions
A noninvasive and efficient model to predict the occurrence of spontaneous preterm birth < 32 weeks in low-risk singleton pregnant women with a short cervix and a classification system were constructed in this study and can provide insight into the optimal management strategy for patients with different risk stratifications according to the score chart.
A pill for every ill. A mass rearing method to aliquot and hatch Aedes mosquito eggs using capsules
Authors: Balestrino F. , Puggioli A. , Mamai W. , Bellini R. , Bouyer J.
Published: August 2024

The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a sustainable genetic control method to suppress or even eradicate mosquito vector populations. The SIT requires a cost-effective production and release of radio sterilized insects of high and consistent quality and quantity. In this study, we report a new procedure to hatch, aliquot and introduce Aedes albopictus and Aedes aegypti larvae into larval mass rearing units using dissolvable vegetable capsules containing brushed eggs and larval diet. The results demonstrated that the egg brushing procedures, the opening of the hatching container and the presence of diet in the hatching solution increased Aedes eggs hatching success. The diet added during the hatching process decreased the dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration, which constituted the main stimulus for egg hatching success in both species. However, a DO reduction below 3 mg/l can effectively stimulate hatching in both species regardless of the deoxygenation method adopted. The capsule method produced similar hatching success without affecting larval survival and pupation rates in comparison with standard hatching procedures. The use of capsules eliminates intermediate laborious procedures for hatching, counting and transferring larvae into mass rearing trays with an expected improvement in production times and costs for Aedes SIT operational programs.
Cultural adaptation of an internet-based self-help app for grieving Syrian refugees in Switzerland
Authors: Aeschlimann Anaïs , Heim Eva , Hoxha Anna , Triantafyllidou Valentina , Killikelly Clare , Haji Farhad , Stöckli Rilana , Aebersold Monia , Maercker Andreas
Published: August 2024

Background: Loss and grief pose significant challenges for victims of armed conflicts, such as Syrian refugees. Internet-based interventions (IBIs) present a promising solution to address this treatment gap and provide adequate support. However, research on grief, grief support, and IBIs remain largely limited to Western cultural contexts and culturally adapted IBIs for grief are needed. Following the RECAPT framework, this study aimed to develop and further adapt a culturally sensitive IBI for bereaved Syrian refugees in Switzerland.
Methods: The study employed qualitative methods. Initially, formative research was conducted to create a first version of the intervention, including semi-structured interviews with 10 experts to identify necessary cultural adaptations. The preliminary version of the intervention was then presented to six potential users and three experts to gather feedback on additional cultural adaptations through two iterative feedback rounds. The first round involved semi-structured interviews using a "paper version" of the intervention, followed by a second round with a walk-through think-aloud protocol with a beta version. Data were analyzed using framework analysis.
Results: The input from various key informants at different stages of development provided valuable feedback on surface and deep structure adaptation, which may enhance treatment adherence, acceptance, and motivation.
Conclusions: These findings provide important insights and recommendations for the cultural adaptation of interventions and may help address the treatment gap for bereaved Syrian refugees.
Vertical stratification, climatic seasonality and human disturbances drive the diurnal butterflies (Lepidoptera: Papilionoidea) diversity in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Castelo Javier Amaru , Huayhua Carolina Milagros Herrera , Canales Andrea Valer
Published: August 2024

Different variables produce changes in the local diversity. They interact complexly to determine the community structure and have a variable effect. In diurnal butterflies, the effect of some variables is confusing due to the contrasting results found, appearing as if there are interactions between them. Most previous works studied, the effect of vertical stratification, climatic seasonality, and human disturbances separately without considering their interaction. In the present work, we evaluated the interaction of these variables using a Box-Cox transformation and Type III ANOVA, and their isolated effect using a Kruskal Wallis test with Dunn Post hoc test. We collected 7655 day-traps from 18 collection points at Manu Learning Centre Biological Station, a forest with a human disturbance gradient, from October 2011 to August 2023 in three different strata (high, medium, and low). We found 378 species from 159 genera. The Type III ANOVA revealed that vertical stratification interacts with the other two variables. In general, the effect of the stratification is negative, being lower in the high stratum. The impact of human disturbance was also negative, being higher in the most preserved forest. Finally, the intermediate climatic season had a greater diversity than the rainy and dry seasons. We concluded that the interaction of the vertical stratification with other variables explained the contrasted result found, the canopy is the last stratum to recover from a disturbance, the species of the high stratum can withstand seasonal variation, and the intermediate season exhibits higher diversity in non-seasonal Amazonian Forest.
The exploration of active components of 701 Dieda Zhentong patch and analgesic properties on chronic constriction injury rats
Authors: Meng Jun , Zhang Zhenglang , Wang Yujie , Long Lina , Luo Anqi , Luo Zhenhui , Cai Kexin , Chen Xi , Nie Hong
Published: August 2024

An increasing number of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) have been confirmed to possess analgesic bioactivity. 701 Dieda Zhentong patch(701-DZP) which includes 14 kinds of TCMs exhibited excellent efficacy in alleviating back or leg pain after a soft-tissue injury. In this study, UPLC/MS was used to construct the fingerprint and potential bioactive ingredients of 701-DZP. 21 compounds were detected and identified in the fingerprint including 12 compounds that pass through the skin and 6 compounds observed in the plasma. Then, the role of 701-DZP in neuropathic pain(NPP) was assessed by network pharmacology and CCI rats. 701-DZP inhibited pain sensitization(MWT and TWL) and the release of inflammation mediators(IL-1β and IL-6) in CCI rats which were in keeping with the core targets of the PPI network. The results of IHC and Western blot showed that the expression of the P2X3 receptor in the DRG and SC of CCI rats was significantly reduced after the treatment with 701-DZP. Moreover, the 701-DZP down-regulated the level of phosphorylation of ERK1/2 MAPK instead of P38 MAPK in the DRG of CCI rats. In conclusion, this study has clarified 6 potential analgesic active compounds of 701-DZP and explored the analgesic properties, which may inhibit the expression of the P2X3 receptor to reduce the release of inflammatory mediators based on the ERK1/2 MAPK pathway to alleviate the NPP.