bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A concatenation approach-based disease prediction model for sustainable health care system
Authors: Tharageswari Kamaraj , Mohana Sundaram Natarajan , Santhosh Rajendran
Published: November 2023

In the present world, due to many factors like environmental changes, food styles, and living habits, human health is constantly affected by different diseases, which causes a huge amount of data to be managed in health care. Some diseases become life-threatening if they are not cured at the starting stage. Thus, it is a complex task for the healthcare system to design a well-trained disease prediction model for accurately identifying diseases. Deep learning models are the most widely used in disease prediction research, but their performance is inferior to conventional models. In order to overcome this issue, this work introduces the concatenation of Inception V3 and Xception deep learning convolutional neural network models. The proposed model extracts the main features and produces the prediction result more accurately than traditional predictive models. This work analyses the performance of the proposed model in terms of accuracy, precision, recall, and f1-score. It compares the proposed model to existing techniques such as Stacked Denoising Auto-Encoder (SDAE), Logistic Regression (LR), MLP, MLP with attention mechanism (MLP-A), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Multi Neural Network (MNN), and Hybrid Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-Random Forest (RF).
Copper ecotoxicity in French vineyard soils
Authors: Cornu Jean-Yves
Published: November 2023

How toxic is copper contamination of vineyard soils to the ecosystem? That is the thorny question this paper seeks to answer. Based on studies describing Cu toxicity in plants, it points out that Cu contamination of vineyard soils is generally moderate and that demonstrations of Cu ecotoxicity at plot level are rare. It stresses that Cu ecotoxicity depends above all on its bioavailability in the soil and explains why it also appears in calcareous soils.  Lastly, it identifies priorities for further research in this field.
Pilot study on comparative assessment of facial profile changes using photographic images and cephalometric radiographs: a pre and post-orthodontic treatment analysis
Authors: Komisarek Oskar , Kożuch Katarzyna , Tuczyńska Agata , Matthews‑Kozanecka Maja
Published: November 2023

Aim. This study aimed to compare changes in facial profile as assessed by photographic images and cephalometric radiographs, before and after orthodontic treatment, and evaluate the feasibility of substituting cephalometric radiographs with photographs in the post‑treatment assessment of facial profile.Material and methods. Thirteen patients receiving orthodontic treatment at the Department of Maxillofacial Orthopedics and Orthodontics at the Medical University of Poznan were included. Photographic and radiographic documentation including lateral cephalometric radiographs and profile photographs, both pre and post‑treatment, were analyzed. Various angles and distances were measured to assess changes in the facial profile. Statistical analyses were performed using Statistica v.13 software.Results. Significant changes were noted in several parameters when comparing pre and post‑treatment records. These changes varied depending on whether the assessment was conducted using photographs or cephalometric radiographs. While photographs revealed visible changes in the facial profile, key skeletal and dental information could only be ascertained through cephalometric analysis.Conclusion. Although photographs are valuable for tracking visible changes and patient communication, their limitations for precise measurements and inherent variability hinder their standalone use for post‑treatment assessment. Our findings underline the continued importance of cephalometric radiographs in comprehensive orthodontic assessment. Further research with larger cohorts is necessary to validate these results and further explore this area of orthodontic study.
Platelet-rich fibrin – contemporary approach in aesthetic medicine and dentistry
Authors: Carlton Oliver , Nawara Błażej , Wyganowska Marzena
Published: November 2023

Introduction and aim. In recent years, there has been an increasing popularity in the use of platelet‑rich fibrin (PRF) in maxillofacial surgery and aesthetic medicine. This article presents a review and summary of current medical literature regarding the applications of this preparation in these fields.Material and methods. A systematic review of current English‑language medical literature was conducted using the PubMed database, using the search phrases „PRF”, „platelet‑rich fibrin in aesthetic medicine”, and „platelet‑rich fibrin in dentistry”.Results and conclusions. PRF, as an autologous, inexpensive, and easily obtainable preparation that can be applied in many aesthetic medicine and dental procedures, may play a significant role in the future of these medical fields. However, in the coming years, attention should be paid to conducting more detailed studies on the effects of this therapy, as most of the previous research has been based on small patient groups, with short follow‑up periods or containing errors in the research design.
A comparison of the efficacy of reducing the signs of ageing in the neck skin after polynucleotides injections in regimens with different dosing intervals – a case study
Authors: Lis Aleksandra , Kawałkiewicz Weronika , Kubisz Leszek
Published: November 2023

Introduction. The article presents the case of a 59-year‑old female patient with signs of the neck skin ageing who underwent treatment based on fish‑derived polinucleotides injections using two different regimens. Aim. To compare efficacy of the regimens A and B.Material and methods. Intradermal injections were administered in two schemes (A and B), considering the following intervals: four treatments 2 weeks apart for scheme A (left half of the neck) and four treatments 4 weeks apart for scheme B (right half of the neck). Analysis of skin parameters was performed using the set of probes Cutometer Dual MPA 580 probe Courage+Khazaka electronic GmbH (cutometer, corneometer, mexameter, evaporimeter). Measurements were always taken at the same points on the both sides of the neck.Results. The patient was treated without persistent side effects. No improvement in cutometer parameters has been observed after treatment with Scheme A on both neck and mandible site. In contrast, the use of Scheme B resulted in increases in parameters R2 (the only significant effect). The application of both regimens resulted in more consistent melanin results in the neck and mandibular regions. In addition, regimen A was more effective in reducing skin redness at both sites, while regimen B was more effective in improving skin condition and resulted in a greater increase in skin hydration in the mandibular site. Conclusions. The skin benefited more from Scheme B. Treatment with polynucleotides extends the anti‑ageing therapy options but is characterised by a mild effect. In mature patients it should be used rather as a form of prevention than as a method of reversing the effects of ageing.
Application of a fan type screw to improve the aesthetics of the dentition in the anterior maxilla – a case report
Authors: Aksamit Jolanta , Matthews‑Brzozowska Teresa
Published: November 2023

Narrowing of the upper dental arch is one of the most common problems encountered by orthodontists in their practice. This abnormality often affects only the anterior part of the maxilla, while the lateral regions maintain the proper width. The reduced width of the dental arch results in insufficient space for the correct alignment of all teeth, leading to crowding and rotation, which significantly deteriorates the aesthetics of the smile. This paper presents a case of a patient who was found to have hypertonicity of the mental muscle during the extraoral examination, and intraoral examination revealed narrowing of the upper dental arch in the anterior segment and crowding of the upper incisors with a deficit of space for the canines. After the orthodontic diagnostic process was performed, a fan‑type expander was used as the initial treatment. With one daily activation, the desired effect of increasing the anterior maxilla width was achieved after 18 days, and a satisfactory correction of the smile was achieved after 18 months.
Black Hole Construction from the Minkowski Manifold
Authors: Laforet Christopher
Published: November 2023

The Schwarzschild manifold is constructed by taking a point on the Minkowski manifold and stretching it into a 4-sphere. This stretch causes gradients in the temporal and spatial coordinate densities around the sphere, leaving a hole of null space-time in the manifold centered at the spatial location of the original point. It is shown that this accurately models the Schwarzschild metric and is used to prove that radial infalling geodesics become null at the horizon and come to rest there. The light-like nature of the worldline is confirmed by analyzing it in Kruskal-Szekeres (KS) coordinates. It is shown that the worldline in KS coordinates has an undefined derivative at the horizon at any point other than the origin of the KS coordinates. It is then demonstrated that the origin of the KS coordinate system can be reached in the falling frame by exploiting the time symmetry of the manifold and that the falling worldline is indeed light-like there. The light-like nature of the worldline means that the horizon is length contracted to a point in the falling frame, such that the event horizon is proven to be the source of the Schwarzschild metric and the end point of gravitational collapse.
Critical Review of Neural Network Generations and Models Design
Authors: Yousif Jabar H. , Yousif Mohammed J.
Published: November 2023

In recent years, Neural networks are increasingly deployed in various fields to learn complex patterns and make accurate predictions. However, designing an effective neural network model is a challenging task that requires careful consideration of various factors, including architecture, optimization method, and regularization technique. This paper aims to comprehensively overview the state-of-the-art artificial neural network (ANN) generation and highlight key challenges and opportunities in machine learning applications. It provides a critical analysis of current neural network model design methodologies, focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of different approaches. Also, it explores the use of different learning approaches, including convolutional neural networks (CNN), deep neural networks (DNN), and recurrent neural networks (RNN) in image recognition, natural language processing, and time series analysis. Besides, it discusses the benefits of choosing the ideal values for the different components of ANN, such as the number of Input/output layers, hidden layers number, activation function type, epochs number, and model type selection, which help improve the model performance and generalization. Furthermore, it identifies some common pitfalls and limitations of existing design methodologies, such as overfitting, lack of interpretability, and computational complexity. Finally, it proposes some directions for future research, such as developing more efficient and interpretable neural network architectures, improving the scalability of training algorithms, and exploring the potential of new paradigms, such as Spiking Neural Networks, quantum neural networks, and neuromorphic computing.
Probiotics as Antibiotic Alternatives for Salmonella Control in Poultry Industry
Authors: Limmaneevichitr Jidapa
Published: November 2023

Salmonella infection is one of major challenges to the poultry industry because of its pressing effects on health of poultry, food safety and human well-being that later may devastate economic losses to the poultry sector. The paper reviews public health implications and the use of antibiotics together with the risk of drug resistance. In recent years, the usage of probiotics in poultry industry has been growing to mitigate an increasing pressure to adopt sustainable farming practices. The mechanisms which probiotics may control Salmonella and important criteria for selecting effective probiotics in poultry are reported. Various studies highlighting the additional benefits of probiotics in poultry production in addition to Salmonella controls are also included. While probiotics offer promise in enhancing poultry health, challenges and limitations in their utilization must also be carefully considered.
The csQCA Analysis on Success or Failure of Adding Elevators to Old Buildings in China under the Multiple Coordination
Authors: Hongxia Luo , Guofu Jin
Published: November 2023

Based on the multiple coordination framework of “promising government-effective market-ordered society”, this paper takes 68 cases of adding elevators to old buildings as samples, and selects six conditional variables: approval optimization, financial subsidies, financing innovation, technological innovation, capable people leading and neighborhood committee guidance. Using Crisp-Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (csQCA), this paper discusses the combination of conditions that affect the success or failure. It is found that: approval optimization and neighborhood committee guidance are sufficient conditions for the success; successful cases can be divided into three types: “political and social dual-drive type”, “market and social dual-drive type” and “ternary co-drive type”; lack of approval optimization, lack of financing innovation, and the existence of capable people leading are necessary conditions for the failure. The failure cases can be divided into “government and market double failure type” and “market failure type”.
Achieving 2.2 GPA Ultra-High Strength in Low-Alloy Steel Using a Direct Quenching and Partitioning Process
Authors: Niu Gang , Jin Donghao , Wang Yong , Chen Haoxiu , Gong Na , Wu Huibin
Published: November 2023

Advanced high-strength steels (AHSS) have a wide range of applications in equipment safety and lightweight design, and enhancing the strength of AHSS to the ultra-high level of 2 GPa is currently a key focus. In this study, a new process of thermo-mechanical control process followed by direct quenching and partitioning (TMCP-DQP) is developed based on Fe-0.4C-1Mn-0.6Si (wt.%) low-alloy steel, and the effects of microstructure evolution on mechanical properties under TMCP-DQP process and conventional hot rolled quenched and tempered process (HR-QT) are comparatively studied. The results show that the TMCP-DQP process not only shortened the processing steps but also achieved outstanding comprehensive mechanical properties. The TMCP-DQP steel exhibits a tensile strength of 2.23 GPa, accompanied by 11.9% elongation and a Brinell hardness of 624 HBW, with an impact toughness of 28.5 J at -20 ℃. In contrast, the HR-QT steel exhibits tensile strengths ranging from 2.16 GPa to 1.7 GPa and elongations between 5.2% and 12.2%. The microstructure of TMCP-DQP steel primarily consists of lath martensite, containing thin-film retained austenite (RA), nanoscale rod-shaped carbides, and a minor number of nanoscale twins. The volume fraction of RA reaches 7.7%, with an average carbon content of 7.1 at.% measured by three-dimensional atom probe tomography (3DAP). Compared to the HR-QT process, the TMCP-DQP process results in finer microstructure, with a prior austenite grain (PAG) size of 11.91 μm, forming packets and blocks with widths of 5.12 μm and 1.63 μm. The TMCP-DQP process achieves the ultra-high strength of low-alloy steel through the synergistic effects of grain refinement, dislocation strengthening, and precipitation strengthening. The dynamic partitioning stage stabilizes the RA through carbon enrichment, while the relaxation stage reduces a small portion of the dislocations generated by thermal deformation, and the self-tempering stage eliminates internal stresses, all guaranteeing considerable ductility and toughness. The TMCP-DQP process may offer a means for industries to streamline their manufacturing processes and provide a technological reference for producing 2.2 GPa grade AHSS.
Advantages of Long Wavelength Photosensitizer meso-Tetra(3-Pyridyl) Bacteriochlorin in Therapy of Bulky Tumors
Authors: Plotnikova Ekaterina A. , Nemtsova Elena , Abakumov Maxim A. , Pankratov Andrei , Shegai Peter , Kaprin Andrey
Published: November 2023

The research presents a novel synthetic photosensitizer for photodynamic therapy (PDT) of malignant tumors - meso-tetra(3-pyridyl) bacteriochlorin, which absorbs at 747 nm (in the long-wavelength region of the spectrum) and is stable when stored in the dark. H2Py4BC demonstrates pronounced photoinduced activity in vitro against tumor cells of various genesis (IC50 varies from 21 to 68 nM for НЕр2, EJ, S37, CТ26, and LLC cultured cells) and provides in vivo pronounced antitumor efficacy in the treatment of mice bearing small or large S37, Colo26, and LLC metastatic tumors, as well as in the treatment of rats bearing RS-1 liver cholangioma. As a result, total regress of primary tumor nodules and cure of 40 to 100% of the animals were proved by the experiment criteria, MRI, and histological analysis. Meso-tetra(3-pyridyl) bacteriochlorin quickly penetrates and accumulates in the tumor tissue and internal organs of mice, and after 24 hours 80% of the dye is excreted from skin as well as 87% - 92% from liver, kidneys, and spleen.
Nurturing the Positive Mental Health of Autistic Children, Adolescents and Adults alongside That of Their Familycare-Givers: A Scoping Review of Reviews
Authors: McConkey Roy
Published: November 2023

The rising prevalence of autism internationally has been accompanied with an increased appreciation of the poorer mental health experienced by people with this condition and also of their family care-givers. In particular higher incidences of anxiety and depression are reported in high income nations and these conditions are likely to be under-recognised and under-reported in lower resourced regions or countries. Mainstream mental health services seem to be ill-equipped to respond adequately to the needs of autistic persons and their care-givers. This scoping review of 30 recently published literature reviews covering over 1,000 journal articles, summarises the insights and strategies that have been shown to promote the mental health and emotional wellbeing of autistic persons. In particular, a focus on family-centred, community-based supports is needed that aim to enhance social communication, extend social connections and promote an individual’s self-esteem, self-determination and social motivation. These low-cost interventions are especially pertinent in low resourced settings but they can be used internationally to prevent mental illness and assist in the treatment of anxiety and depression in autistic persons and their family carers. The priority is to focus on primary care responses with cross-sectoral working rather than investing in high-cost psychiatric provision.
Early Adverse Family Experiences and Elevated Adrenocorticotropic Hormone Predict Non-suicidal Self-Injury in Females with Non-psychotic Mental Disorders and Suicidal Ideation
Authors: Zinchuk Mikhail S. , Druzhkova Tatyana A , Popova Sofya B. , Zhanina Marina Y. , Guekht Alla B. , Gulyaeva Natalia V.
Published: November 2023

Non-suicidal self-injurious behavior (NSSI), prevalent in patients with non-psychotic mental disorders (NPMD), is associated with numerous adverse outcomes. Despite active research into the clinical and psychological aspects of NSSI, the underlying biological mechanisms remain obscure. Early adverse experiences are believed to induce long-lasting changes in neuroendocrine mechanisms of stress control playing a key role in NSSI development. The aim of the study was to evaluate parameters potentially predicting development of NSSI in female patients with NPMD. Eighty female patients over 18 years with NPMD and suicidal ideation (40 with and 40 without NSSI) and 48 age matching women without evidence of mental illness (healthy controls) were enrolled. Diagnostic interviews and self-report measures were used to assess childhood maltreatment, presence, frequency, and characteristics of suicidal and self-injurious thoughts and behaviors, the Beck Depression Inventory scale to assess severity of depression. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis markers, hormones, and neurotrophic factors were measured in blood serum. The likelihood of developing NSSI in patients with NPMD was associated with early adverse family history and elevated adrenocorticotropic hormone levels. Dysregulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis as a result of early chronic stress experiences may represent critical biological mechanism promoting the development of NSSI behaviors in patients with NPMD.
Use of Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) for the Selective Fractionation of Bioactive Low Molecular Weight Carbohydrates
Authors: Jiménez Amezcua Ignacio , Martínez Manuel Ignacio López , Ruiz-Matute A.I. , Sanz María Luz
Published: November 2023

Natural deep eutectic solvents (NADES) have been shown as selective and environmentally friendly solvents for the extraction of bioactive compounds. However, studies on the solubility of low molecular weight carbohydrates (LMWC) in NADES are scarce. In this work, new solubility data of LMWC in NADES are provided and a new approach based on the use of these solvents for the efficient fractionation of bioactive carbohydrates was explored for the first time. Several mono- and disaccharides and three NADES based on choline chloride (ChCl) and different donors [2-ethylene glycol (EtG), glycerol (Gly) and ethanedioic acid dihydrate (Eth)] were considered. While degradation of carbohydrates, mainly ketoses, was detected with ChCl:Eth due to its acidic nature, ChCl:EtG and ChCl:Gly were found to be useful alternatives for selectively separating bioactive ketoses and their corresponding aldoses (e.g. lactulose/lactose and tagatose/galactose) present in equimolar binary mixtures. In addition, the usefulness of ChCl:EtG for the selective enrichment of lactulose to be used as food ingredient or nutraceutical was proven (from a 25% in the reaction mixture to a 56% in the purified sample). NADES could be used for the selective fractionation of value-added carbohydrates from interfering sugars for several applications including food science, engineering or pharmaceuticals.
Effects of Multidisciplinary Biopsychosocial Rehabilitation on Short-Term Pain and Disability in Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review with Network Meta-Analysis
Authors: Jurak Ivan , Delaš Kristina , Erjavec Lana , Stare Janez , Locatelli Igor
Published: November 2023

Chronic Low Back Pain (CLBP), defined as pain persisting for at least 12 weeks, is a significant public health issue, with prevalence intensifying due to an ageing global population, amassing approximately 619 million cases in 2020 and projected to escalate to 843 million by 2050. Given the multitude of therapeutic modalities available for CLBP, this research sought to ascertain their respective efficacies in ameliorating pain and disability. We specifically scrutinized Multidisciplinary Biopsychosocial Rehabilitation (MBR) among adults enduring non-specific low back pain for over 12 weeks, excluding acute pain conditions and pre-study surgical interventions. MBR is an approach encompassing various modalities, including exercise, behavioral therapies, educational programs, and work conditioning aspects, necessitating a comprehensive Network Meta-Analysis (NMA) to fully grasp the extensive scope of its impact. The constructed network comprised diverse MBR modalities (behavioral, educational, and work conditioning) alongside exercise therapy (ET), minimal intervention, and usual care, serving as controls with pain and disability as outcomes. Through the analysis of 4,619 initially identified studies, 93 were included, encompassing a total of 8,059 participants. The NMA conducted substantiated that both ET and MBR modalities were notably effective in alleviating CLBP, with education-oriented MBR emerging as the most efficacious for pain mitigation and behavior-focused MBR for disability reduction. Nevertheless, the discerned differences amongst the treatments were minimal and uncertain, highlighting that no modality was definitively superior to the others. The analysis revealed low global and local inconsistency within the network, underscoring the reliability of the observed outcomes. Given the intricate nature of CLBP, embodying various facets, our findings advocate for a combined therapeutic approach to optimize treatment efficacy. Nonetheless, the presence of high study heterogeneity and potential biases necessitates cautious interpretation of the results, prompting future research.
Unveiling the Transcriptomic Landscape of Holstein Bull Testes Post-Sexual Maturation: Insights into Spermatogenesis-Associated MicroRNAs and mRNA Profiles
Authors: Sahlu Bahlibi Weldegebriall , Wang Huan , Hu Zhihui , Gong JianFei , Zhao Xueming , Hao Haisheng , Zhao Shanjiang , Zhu Huabin
Published: November 2023

Spermatogenesis is a complex, tightly regulated biological process crucial for male fertility in mammals. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) play essential functions in regulating gene expression during spermatogenesis, and their specific roles in Holstein bull testicular development remain unclear. The study analyzed testicular tissues from young and mature Holstein bulls, unveiling the post-sexual maturation transcriptome landscape with a focus on spermatogenesis-associated miRNAs and mRNA profiles. The cDNA libraries from the testicular tissues of three young Holstein bulls (X1, X2, and X3; group YB) and three mature Holstein bulls (D5, D6, and D7; group AB) were established for RNA-sequencing analysis using Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology, followed by bioinformatics analysis. A total of 1114 miRNAs were identified in the X vs. D groups: 683 known miRNAs and 431 novel miRNAs. Notably, 221 known miRNAs exhibit differential expression between the X and D groups, with 118 up-regulated and 103 down-regulated genes. Moreover, a total of 237 previously unidentified novel miRNAs were also observed to exhibit differential expression between X and D, with 77 up-regulated and 160 down-regulated miRNA genes. These miRNA genes were linked to Gene Ontology (GO) terms and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways related to male reproduction and spermatogenesis. The DE analysis of miRNA genes identified the top five up-regulated miRNAs (bta-miR-127, bta-miR-495, bta-miR-493, bta-miR-432, and bta-miR-3956) and down-regulated miRNAs (bta-miR-34c, bta-miR-34b, bta-miR-449a, bta-miR-449b, and 23_28233-5p (hsa-miR-6774-3p)) between the young bull and adult bull groups. The miRNA-mRNA network analysis also identified 17_16057-5p, X_45311-3p (cpo-miR-12072-3p), bta-miR-34c, bta-miR-375, 17_15431-5p (eca-miR-8912), 10_2547-3p (isc-miR-5313), bta-miR-449b, and mRNA genes such as BCL2L11, ADAMTSI1, MED1, and PRDM1; these genes were associated with reproductive system development. The mRNA genes (STRB and BCL2L11) and miRNA genes (bta-miR-134, bta-let-7e, bta-miR-181b, and bta-miR-214) were also found to have a significant correlation with the spermatogenic process. Thus, the comprehensive analysis of miRNA and mRNA enhances our knowledge of the regulatory networks involved in testicular development and identifies potential targets for further investigation and manipulation to improve cattle reproductive efficiency and genetic selection.
The Usefulness of Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI) for Detection of Appendicitis – a Diagnostic Test Accuracy Meta-Analysis
Authors: Patel Manav , Andharia Dev , Shah Abhijay , Shah Hetvi , Patel Dev , Desai Dev
Published: November 2023

Background: Appendicitis is a common cause of emergency department visits and appendectomies in the US, with 250,000 appendectomies performed annually. Current diagnostic methods, such as clinical findings, lead to inaccuracies and missed diagnoses, increasing morbidity and mortality. The only solution is surgery, but current hematological tests are not reliable and may lead to unnecessary surgery if the underlying etiology is self-limiting or requires medical treatment. This study explores the role of MRI as a diagnostic modality that can replace US/CT and supplement traditional clinical diagnostic signs while avoiding ionizing radiation and intravenous contrast medium. The purpose of this meta-analysis is to determine the accuracy of MRI as a diagnostic modality in diagnosing appendicitis, addressing concerns about diagnostic modalities and their adverse effects, and addressing the necessity and success of relevant interventions. Methods: Medical literature was comprehensively searched and reviewed without restrictions to particular study designs, or publication dates using PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar databases for all relevant literature formulated in English. The extraction of necessary data proceeded after specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied. Meta Analysis was performed for 5206 patients, with 35 RCTs being selected. Analysis was done using the QualSyst tool, wherein two writers independently assessed the caliber of each study as well as the use of the Cochrane tool for bias risk apprehension. The statistical software packages RevMan (Review Manager, version 5.3), SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, version 20), and Excel in Stata 14 were used to perform the statistical analyses along with other analytical software. Results: MRI had an overall sensitivity of over 95%, an overall specificity of 94.2% with a PPV of 0.875 in comparison to CT scan in the diagnosis and intervention regarding appendicitis. Conclusion: These findings strongly suggest that MRI is a reasonable alternative to CT for the diagnosis of appendicitis in hospitals with appropriate access to this technology for reasons about accuracy, reliability, and reproducibility as well as addressing safety concerns.
Pathogenic Variants in USH1G/SANS Alter the Protein Interaction With the Pre-RNA Processing Factors PRPF6 and PRPF31 of the Spliceosome
Authors: Fritze Jacques S. , Stiehler Felizitas F. , Wolfrum Uwe
Published: November 2023

Pre-mRNA splicing is an essential process orchestrated by the spliceosome, a dynamic complex assembled stepwise on pre-mRNA. We have previously identified that USH1G protein SANS regulates pre-mRNA splicing by mediating the intra-nuclear transfer of the spliceosomal U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP complex. During this process, SANS interacts with the U4/U6 and U5 snRNP-specific proteins PRPF31 and PRPF6 and regulates splicing, which is disturbed by variants of USH1G/SANS causative for human Usher syndrome (USH) the most common form of hereditary deaf-blindness.Here, we aimed to gain further insight into the molecular interaction of the splicing molecules PRPF31 and PRPF6 to the CENTn domain of SANS using fluorescence resonance energy transfer assays in cells and in silico deep learning-based protein structure predictions. This demonstrates that SANS directly binds via two distinct conserved regions of its CENTn to the two PRPFs. In addition, we provide evidence that these interactions occur sequentially and a conformational change of an intrinsically disordered region to a short α-helix of SANS CENTn2 is triggered by binding of PRPF6. Furthermore, we found that pathogenic variants of USH1G/SANS perturb the binding of SANS to both PRPFs implying a significance for the USH1G pathophysiology.
Superelsatic SMA Honeycomb Damper for Seismic Protection of Bridges
Authors: Cao Sasa , Liu Luwei , Hu Fulong , Zhang Guixin
Published: November 2023

Despite the fact that SMA restrainers exhibit a superelastic strain capacity of 7%, this capacity appears inadequate for isolated bridges due to the typically greater than 20cm relative dis-placements between girders during intense seismic events. In order to perform such a stroke, a SMA restrainer of greater than 3 metres in length might be required. In order to reduce the length of restrainers, a novel honeycomb damper constructed from superelastic shape memory alloy (SMA) is proposed. The proposed device, denoted as the superelastic SMA honeycomb damper (SHD), is comprised of steel plates to prevent the SMA plane from collapsing and superelastic SMA honeycomb to provide self-centering capability. By incorporating the large strain capacity of SMA and the geometrically nonlinear deformation of honeycomb structures, SHD has been developed to satisfy the requirements of bridge restrainers with large strokes. It is capable of functioning as a restrainer and energy dissipation device when subjected to dynamic tension and compression loads. The SHD was initially investigated from a theoretical perspective. Following this, a mul-ti-cell SHD specimen was manufactured. The specimen underwent axial tensile and compressive experiments in order to examine the mechanical properties of SHDs. Finally, experimental results were investigated through numerical simulation analyses of the SHDs using a three-dimensional high-fidelity finite element model. Additionally, a method for enhancing SHD was proposed. The findings indicate that SHD is capable of exhibiting superior self-centering capability and sta-ble hysteretic responses when subjected to earthquakes.
A Study to Determine the Prevalence and Risk Factors of Schistosomiasis Amongst School-Aged Children in Low- and Middle-Income Communities: Ehlanzeni District Municipality, South Africa
Authors: Njikho Sunnieboy Lot , Quan Vanessa Cecilia , Mbonane Thokozani Patrick , Van Wyk Renay Helouise
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to assess the prevalence and identify risk factors for schistosomiasis among school-aged children in low- and middle-income communities. A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted, involving the examination of 24 034 children for Schistosoma haematobium ova. Data were analyzed using IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 27. Logistic regression was employed to determine the factors associated with schistosomiasis. The overall prevalence of schistosomiasis in the study population was 75%, with higher rates observed in rural-dominated areas, particularly Bushbuckridge (73%) and Nkomazi (51%). Age, a history of bilharzia, and the presence of blood in urine were significantly associated with schistosomiasis, while being a female child was found to be a protective factor. This study underscores the importance of implementing robust screening procedures and the necessity for health education to mitigate the high prevalence of schistosomiasis and prevent its further spread.
Discovery of Transfer Factors in Plant Source Proteins and In Vitro Assessment of Their Immunological Activities
Authors: Yimam Mesfin , Horm Teresa , Cai Shengxin , O’Neal Alexandria , Jiao Ping , Hong Mei , Tea Thida , Jia Qi
Published: November 2023

Repeated exposure to pathogens leads to evolutionary selection of adaptive traits. Many species transfer immunological memory to their offspring to counteract future immune challenges. Transfer factor such as that found in colostrum is among the many mechanisms where transfer of immunologic memory from one generation to the next can be achieved for enhanced immune response. Here, a library of 100 plants with high protein contents were screened to find plant-based proteins that behave like a transfer factor moiety to boost human immunity. Aqueous extracts from candidate plants were tested on a human peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) cytotoxicity assay using human cancerous lymphoblast cells - K562 cells as a target and Natural Killer cells as an effector. Plant extracts that caused PBMCs to exhibit enhanced killing beyond the capability of the colostrum-based transfer factor were considered hits. Primary screening yielded an 11% hit rate. Protein content of these hits were tested by Bradford Assay and Coomassie stained-SDS-PAGE, where three extracts were confirmed to have high protein contents. Plants with high protein contents underwent C18 column fractionation using methanol gradients followed by membrane ultrafiltration to isolate proteins with molecular weight <3 kDa, 3-30 kDa, and >30 kDa fractions. It was found that the 3-30 kDa and >30 kDa fractions had high activity in the PBMC cytotoxicity assay. The 3-30 kDa ultrafiltrates from the top two hits, seeds from Raphanus sativus and Brassica juncea, were then selected for protein identification by mass spectrometry. The majority of the proteins in the fractions were found to be seed storage proteins, with low abundance of proteins involved in plant defense and stress response. These findings suggest that Raphanus sativus or Brassica juncea extracts could be considered for further characterization and immune functional exploration with a possibility of supplemental use to bolster recipients’ immune response.
Drainage Performance of Long Longitudinal Slope and High Safety Permeable Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Liu Haocheng , Xu Bin , Wang Hongshan , Gao Aodong , Yu Xuefeng , Ping Shujiang , Zhang Shiqing
Published: November 2023

Permeable asphalt pavement refers to an asphalt mixture layer with an air void content of more than 18% and internal water permeability and drainage capabilities, which can quickly drain away water on the road surface, improve rainy day travel safety and ride comfort. This paper aims to explore the optimal asphalt mixture mix design for long longitudinal slope roads. By using CT scanning technology to analyze the air void content of different rotated and compacted asphalt mixture specimens, and extensively testing and evaluating the performance of permeable pavement mixtures, the following conclusions are drawn: Based on the research philosophy of functional integration, a new asphalt mixture gradation suitable for long longitudinal slope roads is proposed, with the optimal key factor composition being: 0.075mm passing rate of 7%, 2.36mm passing rate of 20%, 9.5mm passing rate of 55%, and oil-stone ratio of 4.8%. The FAM mixture was divided into three parts for air void analysis, with the upper part having a slightly higher air void content than the lower part. The air void distribution diagram of the FAM mixture is concave, with higher air void rate curves on both sides and a lower middle curve. Compared with laboratory dry measurement method, CT scanning test showed slightly higher air void content in specimens. Through dynamic modulus testing, the strength requirement for road asphalt mixture in pavement structure design was evaluated. It was found that at high temperature conditions (50℃), the minimum dynamic modulus value of the FAM mixture was 323 MPa, with a peak value of 22746MPa at a temperature of -10℃ and a frequency of 25HZ. The dynamic modulus value at high temperature conditions is lower than at low temperature conditions, while the dynamic modulus value at high frequency conditions is higher than at low frequency conditions. This study provides useful information and experimental data for the design of new asphalt mixtures for long longitudinal slope roads, and has conducted in-depth research on the air void distribution and performance of the mixture, providing strong support for related research fields and practical applications.
Two Plastid Genome Sequences of the Belian (Eusideroxylon zwageri): Comparative Analysis and Phylogenetic Relationships with Other Magnoliids
Authors: Wen Zhu , Hong Tan Yun , Xin Zhou Xin , Yu Song , Yao Xin Pei
Published: November 2023

In our article in Genome Biology Ecology six years ago, one complete plastid genome of Belian was assembled for comparative analyses of the plastomes in Lauraceae. However, Ariati et al. (2023) concluded that our sequenced Belian individual could be located in the clade of Myristicaceae instead of that of Lauraceae. Here, we performed re-analyses of additional two Belian plastomes, along with 42 plastomes from plants spanning ten families of the Magnoliids. The plastomes of the three Belian individuals range from 157,535 to 157,577 bp in length. Comparative genomic analysis revealed 170 mutation sites in their plastomes, which include 111 substitutions, 53 indels, and six microinversions. Phylogeny was reconstructed using maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches for 44 magnoliids species indicated that our three Belian individuals are nested among the species in the family Lauraceae rather than Myristicaceae.
Trend Patterns of Melanoma Skin in Serbia from 1999 to 2020
Authors: Rancic Natasa K , Tiodorovic Danica B , Ilic Mirko V , Kocic Biljana N , Maksimovic Natasa S , Kocic Ilija D , Miljkovic Dusan P , Otasevic Suzana A
Published: November 2023

Trend patterns of melanoma skin in Serbia from 1999 to 2020
*Rancic K. Natasa 1,2, Tiodorovic B. Danica 1,4, Ilic V. Mirko 2, Biljana N. Kocic 1,2, Maksimovic S. Natasa 3, Ilija D. Kocic 4, Dusan P. Miljkovic 4, Otasevic A. Suzana 1,2
Introduction. Melanoma of the skin represents about 1% of all skin cancers and it causes nearly 80% of skin cancer deaths. Due to its increasing incidence, particularly in the most developed countries it represents a great challenge for primary prevention.
Objective. To explore patterns and analyze incidence trends of melanoma in Central Serbia from 1999 to 2020.
Materials and Methods. Descriptive study was done and data were obtained from the Population-based Cancer Registry of Serbia. The joinpoint regression analysis was done to assess the incidence trend of the melanoma skin: the annual percent change (APC) along with its 95% confidence interval (95% CI) was calculated.
Results. A total number of 9952 new melanoma cases were registered melanoma (5204 in males and 4748 in females) during the observed period. Males represented 52.3% of all patients, with male to female ratio of incidence 2.09:1. A non significant increasing trend of incidence in males from 1999 to 2013 with APC of 2.53% (95%CI: from -18.2 to 21.9, p=1) and significantly increasing trend from 2013 to 2020 with the APC of 11.29 % (95%CI: from 1.4 to 5.8, p<0.001) was established. An incidence trend in females has stabilized in the whole studied period, with APC of 0.42% (95%CI: from -3.3 to 6.8, p=0.1). Melanoma of the skin was not common before the age of 30. Out of all cases and about of 76% new cases were diagnosed in persons ≥ 50 years of age.
Conclusion. The incidence trend of new melanoma cases significantly increase in the whole population from 1999 to 2020. The significant increasing of incidence trend in males and stabilization of incidence trend in females was established. Males had significantlly higher incidence rates than femalesand over of 76% new melanoma cases were diagnosed in persons above 50 years of age.
Value Cocreation and Digital Financial Services Inclusion in Emerging Markets
Authors: Elliot Esi , Ngugi Ben , Adams Russell , Downey Clara
Published: November 2023

We seek to examine effective collaboration when engaging in value cocreation with the customer for mobile financial services in EMs. Our study is a motivation for multi-stakeholder engagement in value cocreation with financial inclusion of all consumers including marginalized populations. Furthermore, our work discovers that social sustainability is a product of social creativity and results in financial inclusion. We apply a qualitative descriptive methodology utilizing exemplars from extant research and phenomenology to analyze the data from the contexts of Ghana and Kenya. The results show that value is co-created for mobile financial services in networks in emerging markets when actors integrate resources for social and environmental sustainability as essential elements for mobile financial inclusion.
Does Impaired Plantar Cutaneous Vibration Perception Contribute to Axial Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease? Effects of Medication and Subthalamic Nucleus Deep Brain Stimulation
Authors: Heß Tobias , Themann Peter , Oehlwein Christian , Milani Thomas L.
Published: November 2023

Objective: To investigate whether impaired plantar cutaneous vibration perception contributes to axial motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease (PD) and whether anti-parkinsonian medication and subthalamic nucleus deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS), show different effects. Methods: Three groups were tested: PD patients on medication (PD-MED), PD patients on medication and additional STN-DBS (PD-MED–DBS), and healthy subjects (HS) as reference. Motor performance was analyzed using a pressure distribution platform. Plantar cutaneous vibration perception thresholds (VPT) were investigated using a customized vibration exciter at 30 Hz. Results: Motor performance of PD-MED and PD-MED–DBS was characterized by greater postural sway, smaller limits of stability ranges, and slower gait, due to shorter strides, fewer steps per minute, and broader stride widths compared to HS. Comparing patient groups, PD-MED–DBS showed better overall motor performance than PD-MED, particularly for the functional limits of stability and gait. VPTs were significantly higher for PD-MED compared to HS, which suggests impaired plantar cutaneous vibration perception in PD. However, PD-MED–DBS showed less impaired cutaneous vibration perception than PD-MED. Conclusion: PD patients suffer from poor motor performance compared to healthy subjects. Anti-parkinsonian medication in conjunction with STN-DBS seems to be superior for normalizing axial motor symptoms compared to medication alone. Plantar cutaneous vibration perception is impaired in PD patients, whereas anti-parkinsonian medication together with STN-DBS is superior for normalizing tactile cutaneous perception compared to medication alone. Consequently, based on our results and the findings of the literature impaired plantar cutaneous vibration perception might contribute to axial motor symptoms in PD.
Mathematical and Statistical Review of NMR Frequency Domain Data Pre-processing
Authors: Jiang Aixiang
Published: November 2023

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is widely used in clinics and research due to its accurate disease identification and non-invasive nature. MRI is based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR), which is also extensively employed in various fields. NMR and its modern versions involve intricate pre-processing steps before data analysis. These steps are initially processed in the time domain and subsequently in the frequency domain. While our previous review focused on time domain pre-processing (https://www.preprints.org/manuscript/202310.2032/v1), this review delves into the mathematical and statistical aspects of frequency domain pre-processing. We discuss essential pre-processing steps like phase error correction, baseline correction, solvent filtering, calibration and alignment, reference deconvolution, binning/bucketing and peak picking, peak fitting/deconvolution and compound identification, integration and quantification, normalization and transformation. Furthermore, we offer practical recommendations for each step.