bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combined Use of Mycorrhizae and Phosphorus Fertilizer on Physio Morphological Characteristics in Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) and Maize (Zea maize L.) Under Intercropping System
Authors: Rostami Taybe , abbasdokht Hamid , makarian hassan , Gholipoor Manoochehr , karimzadehasl khalil
Published: January 2024

The utilization of bio-fertilizers is a relatively new sustainable practice for improving growth and physiological characteristics in plants. Two location field experiments were performed to evaluate the effects of three levels of phosphorus fertilizer: control, 50 kg ha-1, and 100 kg ha-1, and Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi at two levels: M1 (no mycorrhiza) and M2 (mycorrhizal inoculation) on plant height, yield, Total Dry Weight, Leaf Area Index, Crop Growth Rate and Net Assimilation Rate, chlorophyll a, b, and total chlorophyll of quinoa and maize in intercropping system. Different cropping patterns were included quinoa and maize sole culture and replacement intercrop ratios of 50:50, 75:25, and 25:75 (Maize/Quinoa). The results showed that growth indices, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll, and biological yield of maize and quinoa were significantly affected by studied treatments. The highest amounts of chlorophyll a (2.205/4.74 mg g-1 FW in maize/quinoa) and chlorophyll b (0.75/2.88 mg g-1 FW in maize/quinoa were achieved in a 50:50 cropping ratio, use of AMF and 50 kg ha-1 phosphorus fertilizer. Generally; AMF application in a cropping ratio of 50:50 may be proposed to farmers as an eco-friendly approach to achieving desirable physiological characteristics such as plant height, Plant dry matter, Yield, and chlorophyll, in quinoa under the use of 50 kg ha-1 phosphorus fertilizer. The highest growth indices, chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and biological yield of maize were obtained by the 75:25 ratio. For the quinoa and the highest chlorophyll b and total chlorophyll were obtained by the 50:50 ratio.
Analysis of the obstetrician's posture and gestures during a simulated forceps delivery
Authors: Sorel Manon , Gachon Bertrand , Coste-Mazeau Perrine , Aubard Yves , Pierre Fabrice , Fradet Laetitia
Published: January 2024

Background
The objective of this study is to identify and qualify, by means of a three-dimensional kinematic analysis, the postures and gestures of obstetricians during a simulated forceps birth, and then to study the influence of the experience of the obstetricians on how the technique was adopted.
Method
Volunteer obstetricians with varying levels of experience and types of practice were included in this study. The beginners had performed less than 10 forceps deliveries in real conditions (excluding simulation), the intermediates between 10 and 100, and the experts more than 100. The posture and gestures of these obstetricians were recorded using an optoelectronic motion capture system during forceps birth simulated on a mannequin. Data were analysed between three phases of the foetal traction. These phases were defined by the passage of a virtual point associated with the forceps blade through two anatomical planes: the mid-pelvis and the inferior strait. Then, a consolidated ascending hierarchical classification was applied to these data in order to objectify the existence of groups of similar behaviours.
Results
Different postures were observed when crossing the first plane, including different traction techniques. Experts mainly positioned themselves in either a “chevalier servant” posture (going down on one knee) or a “squatting” posture before initiating traction. During traction, they made little movement until the deflection of the foetal head, that is, until they crossed the second plane. Many of the beginners stood up initially. The quantity of movement produced reduced with the level of expertise.
Conclusion
Experienced obstetricians favoured postures that enabled observation at the level of the maternal perineum, and techniques that reduced movement amplitude. The next aim was to relate these different techniques to the traction force generated. The results of these studies have the potential to contribute to the training of obstetricians in forceps delivery, and to improve the safety of women and newborns.
Comparative Disease Burden and Treatment Response of Influenza and SARS-CoV-2 Infections: A Real-World Data Study
Authors: Telenti Amalio , Bartha Istvan , Maher M. Cyrus , Lavrenko Victor , Chen Yi-Pei , Tao Qiqing , Iulio Julia di , Boundy Keith , Kinter Elizabeth , Yeh Wendy , Corti Davide
Published: January 2024

While influenza has long affected humans, SARS-CoV-2 is a new human pathogen. As SARS-CoV-2 becomes endemic in humans, it is important to compare the impact of these two infections and the effectiveness of antiviral treatments. To tackle these questions, we utilized data from the National Covid Cohort Collaborative, a comprehensive and harmonized data repository of electronic health records in the USA. For the years 2021-2022, we included 346,648 eligible SARS-CoV-2-infected patients, 78,086 eligible influenza-infected patients, and 146,635 uninfected control subjects. Our analysis reveals that the impact on human health of as SARS-CoV-2 mirrors that of influenza. Analyses using national hospitalization and wastewater surveillance data supports a marked decline of morbidity of SARS-CoV-2 as it becomes endemic. Remarkably, real-world data shows that antiviral treatments effectively reduce the burden of acute and post-acute disease for SARS-CoV-2 but not for influenza, underscoring the unmet need for an effective influenza treatment.
Stearate-rich diet and oleate restriction directly inhibit tumor growth via the unfolded protein respons
Authors: Yamanoi Koji , Jumpei Ogura , Nakamura Eijiro , Ito Shiji , Nakanishi Yuki , Menju Toshi , Kawaguchi Kosuke , Hosoe Yuko , Taki Mana , Murakami Ryusuke , Yamaguchi Ken , Hamanishi Junzo , Mandai Masaki
Published: January 2024

Saturated fatty acids have an anti-proliferative effect on cells. However, there are multiple types of saturated fatty acids, and the effects of each one on cancer cells are not fully elucidated. Here, we explored the effects of palmitate and stearate, saturated fatty acids abundant in the biological systems, on cancer cells. We found that stearate, but not palmitate, had a broad anti-proliferative effect on cancer cell lines originating from multiple organs by causing DNA damage through the unfolded protein response pathway, while oleate mitigated this effect. Feeding an stearate-rich diet and simultaneously inhibiting stearoyl-CoA desaturase-1 activity induced an increase in stearate levels and a decrease in oleate levels in tissues, significantly inhibiting the growth of xenografted ovarian cancer cell lines and patient-derived xenografts. In conclusion, modification of the stearate and oleate dietary composition may have therapeutic significance for cancer.
PLA-HA/Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles loaded with Curcumin: Physicochemical characterization and toxicity evaluation in HCT116 Colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Bourang Shima , Asadian Sina , Noruzpour Mehran , Mansuryar Atefeh , Azizi Solmaz , Ebrahimi Hossein Ali , Hooshyar Vahid Amani
Published: January 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common, harmful, and universal cancer and the second lethal type. This paper discusses the therapeutic potential of curcumin, a major curcuminoid found in the substructure of plant Curcuma longa (turmeric), against CRC. Curcumin has the ability to disrupt a variety of cellular signaling pathways and has been validated in several preclinical and clinical studies, but suffers from low solubility and bioavailability. To address these issues, PLA-HA/Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles were synthesized and loaded with curcumin. The average size and zeta potential of the nanoparticles and the magnetic properties were measured. The drug encapsulation efficiency and cumulative release of curcumin from the nanoparticles under acidic and neutral pH values were evaluated, as well as the cytotoxic effect of the nanoparticles on HCT116 colorectal cancer cells. The results demonstrated that nanoparticles have a high degree of biocompatibility and the ability to carry Curcumin medications. HCT116 cells with 200 µg/ml PLA-HA/Fe3O4/Curcumin nanoparticles have 58.63 ± 3.7% percent cell viability. Ultimately, PLA-HA, Fe3O4, and Curcumin's physicochemical characteristics and impact on cell viability render them valuable instruments for precisely delivering drugs to colorectal cancer cells. The PLA-HA/Fe3O4-curcumin nanoparticles demonstrated a well-targeted drug delivery system for upcoming colorectal cancer treatments, as evidenced by their overall strong cytotoxic effects on colorectal cancer cells and negligible toxicity towards non-cancerous cells.
Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction syndrome/veno-occlusive disease (SOS/VOD) primary prophylaxis in patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a network meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Sousa-Pimenta Mário , Martins Ângelo , Vaz Carlos Pinho , Leite Luís , Mariz José
Published: January 2024

Introduction:
Hepatic sinusoidal obstruction/veno-occlusive syndrome (SOS/VOD) is a major complication following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, resulting from immune and chemical toxicity to the sinusoidal endothelium and hepatocellular damage. In most severe cases, multiorgan dysfunction occurs, so it is essential to promptly identify patients at greater risk of SOS/VOD and to adopt prophylactic strategies.
Objectives
This study aims to systematize the impact of different approaches as primary prophylaxis of SOS/VOD in patients undergoing hematopoietic progenitors stem cell transplantation (HSCT).
Methods
A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials evaluating different strategies for primary prophylaxis of SOS/VOD was carried out in a pairwise fashion and with a consistent network structure. The odds ratio (OR) and corresponding confidence intervals were calculated using the random-effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed by the I2 method and the efficacy of each approach was estimated by SUCRA (surface under the cumulative ranking curve).
Results
Considering all patients undergoing HSCT, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) [OR = 0.38, 95%CI 0.14–1.06, SUCRA = 0.720] was associated with a lower incidence of VOD while defibrotide reached a modest reduction in its incidence [OR = 0.64, 95%CI 0.23–1.67; SUCRA = 0.486]. Considering the subgroup of patients undergoing hematopoietic progenitors allotransplantation, defibrotide scored higher [OR = 0.51, 95%CI 0.09–2.85, SUCRA = 0.650], by comparison with UDCA [OR = 0.53, 95%CI 0.14–1.96, SUCRA = 0.639].
Conclusion
This is the first meta-analysis comparing primary prophylaxis of SOS/VOD. UDCA yielded more promising results when considering all patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, although, in a subgroup analysis of the ones exposed to allogeneic grafts, it becomes not significantly overrun by defibrotide.
Rising Waters, Falling Dams: Deciphering the Derna Flood Disaster
Authors: Imran JASIM , Nemnem Ayman , Tanim Ahad , Khan M Sadik , Nahian Audrika , Goharian Erfan
Published: January 2024

On September 11, 2023, the city of Derna along the Libyan coast experienced an unprecedented disaster as Storm Daniel unleashed heavy rainfall, leading to the failure of dams and catastrophic flooding. The study investigates the dynamics of this event, exploring the factors leading to dam failure and their role in the devastating flooding of Derna. Through hydrologic, hydraulic, and geotechnical modeling, the research investigates scenarios with and without dams to understand the specific impact of dam failure on flood inundation. The storm's origin, the rainfall distribution in the Wadi Derna watershed, and the subsequent runoff and reservoir filling are analyzed. The study reveals that the dams, if survived would have been minimally effective in controlling the flash flood in the city due to the extreme nature of Storm Daniel's runoff. However, the surge wave generated due to their failure had a devastating impact on human lives and infrastructures. The findings emphasize the critical need for thorough hydro-meteorological assessments and flood management practices in regions vulnerable to climate change impacts and recommend a shift from over-reliance on structural flood control measures. The analysis also highlights the 'dam paradox' and the importance of effective communication, evacuation plans, and comprehensive flood control evaluations in mitigating the impact of extreme storms.
Prognostic Significance of CDK1 Expression in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Chen Qiuni , Lu Chuanyang , Xu Lei , Xue Yujie , Gong Xue , Shi Yuye , Wang Chunling , Yu Liang
Published: January 2024

Objective
This study delves into the clinical implications and expression of CDK1 in diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL).
Methods
Gene expression information from healthy subjects was sourced from the Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx) repository. Clinical details and survival statistics for DLBCL patients came from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) archive (GSE10846). Patients were categorized based on CDK1 expression levels, and differences in clinical outcomes between the groups were examined. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were employed to ascertain whether CDK1 independently predicts DLBCL prognosis. The protein expression of CDK1 was gauged using immunohistochemistry. Additionally, we investigated the outcome of CDK1 inhibition on DLBCL cell growth and cell death using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and flow cytometry.
Results
In the control group, CDK1 was predominantly observed in the hematopoietic and reproductive systems. CDK1 levels in DLBCL patients were notably elevated compared to controls. Significant differences were noted in the LDH ratio and overall survival based on CDK1 expression. Statistical analyses confirmed CDK1 as an independent predictor of DLBCL outcomes. Elevated CDK1 protein was observed in a significant number of DLBCL samples, contrasting with normal lymph node samples from individuals without lymphoma. An inhibitor, Ro-3306, curtailed DLBCL cell growth and enhanced cell death in vitro.
Conclusion
Elevated CDK1 levels correlate with poor prognosis in DLBCL.
Risk Factors and Nomogram for the Prediction of Intracranial Hemorrhage in Very Preterm Infants
Authors: Wang Yan , Ruan Minyi , Xie Yiling , Wen Lijun , Li Minxu
Published: January 2024

Aims: This study aims to identify important risk factors for intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in very preterm infants at our institution and develop a predictive nomogram for early detection of ICH.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed neonates with a gestational age (GA) under 32 weeks, admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit from March 2022 to July 2023. Infants were categorized into two groups based on ultrasound findings and assessed for thirteen variables including gender, GA, birth weight (BW), acidosis, among others. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis to build a prediction model and identify independent risk factors for ICH. We build a prediction model by assigning 241 cases to the training set and 103 to the validation set (ratio 7:3).
Results: Among 344 very preterm infants, the incidence of ICH was 36.9% (89 cases) in training set. Significant differences were observed in gestational age, birth weight, antenatal corticosteroids, mechanical ventilation more than three days, and acidosis between cases and controls. Logistic regression analysis identified gestational age (OR=0.946), antenatal corticosteroids (OR=0.269), acidosis (OR=2.391), and mechanical ventilation more than three days(OR=3.215) as independent risk factors for ICH. The C-index of the training and validation sets was 0.802 (95% CI=0.713-0.891) and 0.803 (95% CI=0.744-0.803), respectively. According to decision curve analysis, the sensitivity and specificity of the model were 73.03% and 76.97%, respectively.
Conclusion: Acidosis and mechanical ventilation are independent risk factors for ICH in very preterm neonates, while higher gestational age and antenatal corticosteroid use are protective. The nomogram developed from these four factors demonstrates strong predictive accuracy and calibration, which can aid clinicians in identifying preterm infants at high risk for ICH and facilitate early diagnosis and management.
Numerical Modelling of Latitudinal Migration of Spent Engine Oil Contaminants in a Lateritic Soil.
Authors: Nwachukwu Jasper , Edo Friday
Published: January 2024

Despite the overwhelming advantages recorded through the establishment of automobile mechanic villages, the anti-ecologically friendly practices recoded within the developing countries seek urgent and integrated approach in order to cub the rising menace associated with these unethical practices. Indiscriminate discharge of spent engine oil on the soil and many other pollutants known to contain high levels of heavy metals and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons is in no doubt causing serious ecological and public health concerns. Therefore, this research work focuses on using Classical Diffusion, Advection-Dispersion Model in evaluating the final concentration (C) of the Spent Engine Oil(SEO) sample constituents (PAHs, Lead, Cadmium and Nickel) emanating from the study area (Nekede Mechanic Village, Owerri, Imo state, Nigeria). The model prediction proved that under high rainfall density, high infiltration rate and favourable geologic conditions recorded in the area, high levels of the contaminants could be possibly transmitted to the groundwater table of the study area. Soil sample was collected from a depth of 35cm within Nekede mechanic Village for the purpose of ascertaining its physico-chemical properties. A sample of SEO was collected from an auto-mechanic shop for the purpose evaluating the initial Concentration (Co) of the contaminants/ constituents of SEO. Analytical result shows the total initial volume of 16 Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs) contained in the sample of Spent Engine Oil to be 51.73329 (ppm). The initial concentrations of three selected Heavy metals were evaluated; lead (Pb) 112.04mg/L; Cadmium (Cd) 3.020mg/L; Nickel 2.130mg/L. The Classical Diffusion, Advection/Dispersion Model was used to predict the concentration of the SEO constituents at 24m depth, using the data from the analytical results of the SEO and the soil analysis as inputs. The modelling predicted reduction in volume of SEO constituents as they migrate down the soil. Hence, the results derived proved that SEO constituents could exceed the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) under a steady flow. Therefore, proper Spent Engine Oil management and environmentally friendly mechanic villages should be encouraged.
Inequalities in Health Risks and Outcomes Faced by Mexico’s Incarcerated Population
Authors: Hirsch Sarah , Liu Yiran E , Escudero Fernando Alarid , Andrews Jason R , Studdert David M , Goldhaber-Fiebert Jeremy D
Published: January 2024

Incarcerated populations are particularly vulnerable. Few studies quantify the prevalence of health-related exposures and conditions among incarcerated people in comparison to the free-living people, especially for non-high-income countries. We studied incarcerated and free-living Mexican adults aged 20-79 in 2021 using the National Survey of the Incarcerated Population (ENPOL) and the National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT). For demographics, nutritional and sanitation exposures, behavioral risk factors, physical health conditions, and sexual and mental health conditions, we computed sex- and age group-specific prevalences for incarcerated and free-living people along with overall prevalences, age-standardized to the incarcerated population, accounting for the complex survey sampling designs. Compared to its free-living population, Mexico’s incarcerated population has higher frequencies of sexual assault (females: 3.4% versus 0.05% of free-living; males: 1.6% versus 0.06% of free-living), violence (females: 8.3% versus 2.1%; males: 9% versus 3.3%), and suicidality (females: 18% versus 12%; males: 12% versus 7.9%). There are also higher levels of inaccessibility of drinking water (females: 27% versus 3.5%; males: 18% versus 3.1%) and flushing toilets (females: 42% versus 29%; males: 48% versus 26%). Among incarcerated females, there is higher prevalence of smoking (37% versus 11%) and hypertension (17% versus 10%). Incarcerated people face less food insecurity (females: 7.4% versus 20%; males: 9.2% versus 18%) and higher proportions receive breast and Papanicolau exams. Targeted policies should address health inequalities faced by the Mexican incarcerated population, both by improving carceral living conditions and connecting incarcerated people with necessary public services upon release.
The causality between gut microbiota and functional dyspepsia: a two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Jin Xiaojing , Xu Keli , Wu Jingyi , Yang Chenxi , Bao Jie , Shao Xiaomei , Zhou Chuanlong
Published: January 2024

Introduction:To investigate the potential link between gut microbiota and functional dyspepsia (FD).
Methods: Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) of gut microbiota and FD were used in Mendelian randomization (MR) research. Using the GWAS of 18,340 people, instrumental variables related to gut microbiota as an exposure factor were identified. In a GWAS investigation, 189695 control individuals and 4376 FD patients from Europe were included as outcome variables. The primary analysis technique was inverse variance weighted analysis (IVW). The reliability of MR Analysis results is tested using sensitivity analysis.
Results: TSMR analysis revealed the presence of seven gut microbiota associated to FD. In the IVW method, Order Erysipelotrichales (odds ratio (OR): 1.301; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.016,1.665;P=0.037),Family Erysipelotrichales (OR:1.301;95%CI:1.016,1.665;P=0.037), Genus Haemophilus (OR:1.236;95%CI 1.059, 1.442;P=0.007), Genus Ruminiclostridium9 (OR:1.422; 95%CI:1.078, 1.877; P=0.013),Genus Lachnospiraceae NK4A 136 group (OR:1.297;95%CI:1.059, 1.589; P=0.012) was positively associated with functional dyspepsia. Class Gammaproteobacteria (OR:0.705;95%CI:0.522,0.952;P=0.022) and Genus Erysipelatoclostridium (OR:0.747;95%CI:0.628,0.888;P=0.001) were found to be inversely related to functional dyspepsia. There was no evidence of pleiotropy or heterogeneity in the sensitivity analysis.
Conclusions:Our research provides evidence for a possible link between FD and a number of gut microbiota. The role that gut microbiota plays in the development of FD requires more investigation.
A Machine Learning Approach for Malware Detection based on Image Conversion
Authors: Laouadi Abir , Menacer Djamel Eddine , Benatchba Karima
Published: January 2024

Due to the sophistication of recent malware, classical detection approaches are becoming obsolete. Machine Learning for malware detection has emerged as a new trend and is becoming increasingly effective. Indeed, malware generate a tremendous amount of data that should be analyzed and used to detect them. The aim of this paper is to propose a Machine Learning approach to detect both recent and old malware by converting them into images. This approach, which consists of two phases, is based on Transfer Learning through the use of Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) that extract features from malware images. These features are used to determine the maliciousness of a particular file. We define six strategies, each one is a combination of two image types (Grayscale and Color) and three CNN architectures (VGG, ResNet and Inception). Experimental evaluation has been done to test these six strategies. The strategy that fulfills the most testing goals is Grayscale + ResNet with a testing accuracy of 90.08\%. Even if the first results are promising, the future work is to automate the fine-tuning of the parameters to go through all possible values and obtain the best ones.
Hevenli: A Large Dataset for English-Vietnamese Cross-Lingual Natural Language Inference in Healthcare
Authors: Ngo The-Quyen , To Tan-Tai , Nguyen Huyen , Do Thanh-Ha , Hoang Tuan-Anh
Published: January 2024

We introduce Hevenli, a novel large dataset for English-Vietnamese cross-lingual natural language inference learning. Different from the existing datasets which are not domain specific and diverse in style, ours is specific to healthcare domain and consists of news-style sentence pairs. Notably, our dataset is more than two times larger than the largest existing one. We conducted an exploratory analysis to examine the topics of the dataset. Also, to set the baseline results, we evaluated the state-of-the-art methods on the dataset. The obtained results show that our dataset is a challenging corpus which is potentially useful for more advanced research and developing practical applications.
hInGeTox: A human-based in vitro platform to evaluate lentivirus contribution to genotoxicity
Authors: Themis Mike , Suleman Saqlain , Haque Sharmin Al , Guo Andrew , Zhang Huairen , Payne Annette , Zhang Marco , Fawaz Serena , Khalifa Mohammad , Jobling Susan , Hay David , Franco Matteo , Fronza Raffaele , Wang Wei , Strobel-Freidekind Olga , Deichmann Annette , Takeuchi Yasuhiro , Gil-Farina Irene , Klapwijk Jan , Perera Stefany , Schmidt Manfred
Published: January 2024

Lentivirus vectors are effective for treatment of genetic disease and cancer, however, vector related insertional mutagenesis related genotoxicity is of concern and currently available safety models are not reliably predictive of safety in humans. We have developed hInGeTox as the first human in vitro platform that uses induced pluripotent stem cells and their hepatocyte like derivatives to further understand LV host interaction for vector safety evaluation and design. To characterise LV for genotoxic association, we used LTR and SIN configuration LV infected cells for a multi-omics analysis on data that included LV integration sites in cancer genes and their associated differential expression, clonal tracking of IS, novel vector/host fusion transcripts and methylated cancer genes with altered gene expression after infection. We present hInGeTox as a useful pre-clinical tool to identify lentivirus contributory factors mediating genotoxicity to use for improving LV design to provide gene therapy.
Employing Response Surface Methodology in the Production of Elastic Jute Yarn Suitable for Stretch-denim Applications
Authors: Uddin Md. Bashar , Begum Hosne Ara , Uddin Ahmed Jalal
Published: January 2024

Stretch-denim is a unique, trendy, and sturdy fabric produced with coarser cotton yarns requiring high consumption of cotton fiber. With the increasing expenses of cotton and the adverse ecological effects linked to its cultivation, it became necessary to investigate an alternative fiber. Jute, despite being a low-cost, biodegradable and sustainable natural cellulosic fiber, is often underappreciated in the textile industry primarily because of its inherent stiffness and poor aesthetics. Herein, a groundbreaking jute/elastane core-spun yarn was produced, for the very first time, to develop fabrics like denim with comfortable stretch. To accurately predict the elastane draw ratio, an I-optimal design, which is a part of the response surface methodology, was employed using design expert software. The study involved nine experimental runs to produce 276 tex core-spun yarns at different elastane draw ratios ranging from 1.4 to 4.6. Surface response models were developed and found statistically significant for mass variation, imperfection, hairiness, tenacity, and elongation of yarn, with p-values below 0.05. Using the optimized formulation obtained from the response models, the optimum elastane draw ratio was determined to be 3.42, which was then used to produce optimized core-spun yarn. The quality parameters of produced yarn closely matched the predicted values, suggesting the effectiveness of the response model in navigating and predicting the characteristics of jute core-spun yarn. The newly developed elastic jute yarn is expected to widen the applications of cellulosic jute yarns where elasticity is necessary, especially in stretch-textile like denim products by replacing the cotton counterpart.
Wideband Low-RCS and Gain-Enhanced Antenna Using Frequency Selective Absorber Based on Patterned Graphene
Authors: Wang Fuwei , Wang Yi , Zhang Xiaoyu , Liu Lu , Li Ke , Ren Yuhui
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a double-layer patterned graphene-based frequency-selective absorber (DGFSA) is proposed as a means of reducing an antenna's radar cross-section (RCS) while simultaneously increasing its gain. The antenna consists of a patch antenna with MGFSA mounted on top. The DGFSA consists of double-layer patterned graphene and a band-pass frequency selective surface (FSS). Two patterned graphene lossy layers with different square resistances are used, which broaden the electromagnetic (EM) wave absorption bandwidth of the DGFSA, thus greatly reducing the out-band monostatic RCSs of the patch antenna. Meanwhile, due to the quasi-Fabry-Perot (F-P) effect, the gain of the proposed antenna is enhanced by 2.4 dB. Additionally, the low-RCS antenna reduces the monostatic RCS from 1.32 to 17 GHz under y-polarization and from 1.4 to 16.8 GHz under x-polarization, respectively. Furthermore, a decrease in the bistatic RCS is accomplished. Results from simulations and measurements match up nicely, which means the antenna we proposed has a good application on the stealth platform.
Binding affinity optimization and structural evaluation of designed antibodies against PD-1 and PD-L1 as critical immune checkpoints involved in cancer treatment
Authors: Abdolmaleki Sarah , hakemi Mazdak Ganjalikhani , Ganjalikhany Mohamad Reza
Published: January 2024

Cancer control and treatment remain a significant challenge in cancer therapy and recently immune checkpoints has considered as a novel treatment strategy to develop anti-cancer drugs. Many cancer types use the immune checkpoints and its ligand, PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, to evade detection and destruction by the immune system, which is associated with altered effector function of PD-1 and PD-L1 overexpression on cancer cells to deactivate T cells. In recent years, mAbs have been employed to block immune checkpoints, therefore normalization of the anti-tumor response has enabled the scientists to develop novel biopharmaceuticals. In vivo antibody affinity maturation in targeted therapy has sometimes been failed and highlight the importance of in silico design methods in this area. Here, we used the in silico methods to design improved mAbs with high affinity for PD-1 and PD-L1. At first, using the RosettaDesign protocol, thousands of antibodies have been generated for 11 different regions on PD-1 and PD-L1 and then the designs with higher stability, affinity, and shape complementarity were selected. We obtained high affinity antibodies with success rates of 33.2% and 30.6% for PD-1 and PD-L1. Then, MD simulation and MM-PBSA techniques were used to understand the dynamic, structural features of the complexes, measure the stability and binding affinity of the final designs. This study provides comprehensive information regarding the potential binding epitopes on PD-1 which could be considered as hotspots for designing potential biopharmaceuticals. We also showed that mutations in the CDRs regions will rearrange the interaction pattern between the designed antibodies and targets (PD-1 and PD-L1) with improved affinity to effectively inhibit protein-protein interaction and block the immune checkpoint.
Climate Oscillations influence on GoM Circulation
Authors: Souza Alejandro , Gallegos-DiezBarroso Gabriel
Published: January 2024

Atmosphere - Ocean processes share large amount of energy through sea surface. This energy interactions has a signi cant contribution on climate and ocean dynamic variability. EOF principal components from Gulf of Mexico (GoM) circulation, wind  eld velocity and the indexes of NAO and ENSO were cross spectra analysed to depict mode by mode which are the frequencies and how much energy are shared in each one. GoM circulation behavior is an important step at the AMOC heat transfer from lower to higher latitudes, this energy transfer should enhance or weaken ocean-atmosphere processes . Atmospheric NAO-ENSO tele connections seems to have strong forcing implications in GoM circulation. Loop current (LC) length variability and Loop Current Eddies (LCE's) shedding frequencies, which governs GoM circulation dynamics, have several shared frequencies with climate oscillations that can enhance or weaken AMOC intensity
[1]. Several frequency/phase synchronization were observed from the cross spectra analysis which is a very common phenomena in complex oscillations such as
NAO, ENSO and AMOC can be conceived.
Efficient Implementation of the Lattice Boltzmann Method on a GPU for Predicting Near-Field and Far-field Jet Noise
Authors: Noah Khalid , Abdelrahim Suleiman , Mosa Mohamed , Adam Saad
Published: January 2024

The lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) is a powerful technique for the computational modelling of a wide variety of single and multiphase flows in complex geometries. It is a discrete computational approach based on solving the Boltzmann equation numerically. LBM has recently become one of the new and promising CFD methods to solve many computational fluid mechanics problems. LBM works particularly well when solving incompressible flow problems, but limitations arise when solving compressible flow, especially at high Mach numbers. Compressible LBM was applied for the simulation jet flow in order to demonstrate the ability of the fifth-order equilibrium distribution function to simulate compressible flows efficiently. The near-field flow physics and noise simulations were performed using the compressible LBM. The results from the LBM simulation were then employed in Kirchhoff’s surface integral approach to predict far-field jet noise. Because of the ability of the lattice Boltzmann technique to be used in parallel computing and to improve LBM computational efficiency with respect to the numerical simulations of turbulent flows in predicting far-field noise, the final step in this research was to use the compute unified device architecture (CUDA) for implementing the LBM in a graphics processing unit (GPU), thus creating a hybrid code, LBM-MRT-LES, through the utilization of the Kirchhoff integral method, a powerful tool for simulating aeroacoustics problems.
VR-GNN: Variational Relation Vector Graph Neural Network for Modeling Homophily and Heterophily
Authors: Shi Fengzhao , Li Ren , Cao Yanan , Lin Xixun , Shang Yanmin , Zhou Chuan , Wu Jia , Pan Shirui
Published: January 2024

Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) have achieved remarkable success in diverse real-world applications. Traditional GNNs are designed based on homophily, which leads to poor performance under heterophily scenarios. Most current solutions deal with heterophily mainly by modeling the heterophily edges as data noises or high-frequency signals, treating all heterophilic edges as being of the same semantic. Consequently, they ignore the rich semantic information of these edges in heterophily graphs. To overcome this critic problem, we propose a novel GNN model based on relation vector translation named as Variational Relation Vector Graph Neural Network (VR-GNN). VR-GNN models relation generation and graph aggregation into an end-to-end model based on a variational inference framework. To be specific, the encoder utilizes the structure, feature and label to generate a fine-grained relation vector for each edge, which aims to infer its implicit semantic information. The decoder incorporates the generated relation vectors into the message-passing framework for deriving better node representations. We conduct extensive experiments on eight real-world datasets with different homophily-heterophily properties to verify model effectiveness. Extensive experimental results show that VR-GNN gains consistent and significant improvements against existing strong GNN methods under heterophily and competitive performance under homophily.
Peripheral Nerve Decompression for Pain Relief in the Setting of Previous Obstetrical Brachial Plexus Injury: A Retrospective Case Series
Authors: Gormley Jessica , Isak Pavlo , Gjertsen Deborah , Bain James R
Published: January 2024

Purpose
In children with previous obstetrical brachial plexus injury (OBPI) upper extremity pain is present in 45 to 66% of patients. Recent literature reports this as musculoskeletal or neuropathic in nature. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate that peripheral nerve decompression and neurolysis may be an effective treatment for patients with upper extremity pain in the context of previous OBPI.
Methods
A retrospective chart review was performed on patients undergoing peripheral nerve decompression and neurolysis after OBPI by senior author. The primary outcome assessed was pain and secondary outcome measure was range of motion of the wrist and elbow. Outcome measures were assessed preoperatively as well as at their subsequent follow-up.
Results
Six patients were included, with a mean age of 14 years old at time of decompression. Three patients underwent median nerve, two patients underwent ulnar nerve and one patient underwent posterior interosseous nerve decompression. There was a substantial improvement in pain post-operatively, demonstrated by reduction or resolution of subjective pain in all patients and resolution of Tinel’s sign. There was a modest improvement in range of motion.
Conclusion
This study demonstrates an improvement in subjective pain and range of motion after decompression and neurolysis in OBPI patients with peripheral neuropathy. Appropriate identification of this pathology through routine follow-up with a multidisciplinary clinic allows for early recognition and symptom relief. Future research should focus on assessment and treatment of pain in this population on a larger scale.
Monitoring Thoracic Surgery Patients: A Heart Rate Variability Perspective on Postoperative Recovery and Therapeutic Interventions
Authors: Miri Seyedsadra , Lähteenmäki Sabina , Mahrberg Heidi , Vehkaoja Antti , Laurikka Jari , Viik Jari
Published: January 2024

Purpose
In this study we aim to adopt heart rate variability (HRV) as a non-invasive monitoring technique to assess the recovery process of pulmonary surgery patients. In order to advance the recovery process, two different physiotherapy interventions; positive expiratory pressure (PEP) and inspiratory muscle training (IMT) were utilized to see how effectively they can enhance the recovery process.
Methods
Electrocardiogram (ECG) measurements were performed for 72 minor pulmonary (PM) and pulmonary resection (PR) surgery patients pre-operatively and on two first post-operative days and the recovery process was promoted using PEP and IMT therapeutic interventions by dividing the patients into two groups, one for each intervention. Time and frequency domain HRV parameters were calculated during different days and statistical analysis was performed between the days and the intervention groups.
Results
A reduction in all investigated HRV parameters was observed post-operatively. Low frequency components of HRV (LF power) faced the most significant reduction for PEP intervention of PM surgery group (from 290.02 ms2 to 229.04 ms2). There was no sign of recovery and returning to the baseline level within the two-day timeframe. Also, no statistically significant difference was found between intervention groups (\(\alpha\) \(\ge\) 0.05); however, IMT technique seemed to have a slightly improved effects for PM surgery group.
Conclusion
Based on the results, the investigated HRV parameters are able to assess the status of pulmonary surgery patients, the recovery process and inspecting the difference between therapeutic interventions; however, larger studies with extended monitoring timeframe and more subjects can possibly improve the results.
The transcription factor STE12 influences growth on several carbon sources and production of dehydroacetic acid (DHAA) in Trichoderma reesei
Authors: Schalamun Miriam , Hinterdobler Wolfgang , Schinnerl Johann , Brecker Lothar , Schmoll Monika
Published: January 2024

The filamentous ascomycete Trichoderma reesei, known for its prolific cellulolytic enzyme production, recently also gained attention for its secondary metabolite synthesis. Both processes are intricately influenced by environmental factors like carbon source availability and light exposure. Here, we explore the role of the transcription factor STE12 in regulating metabolic pathways in T. reesei in terms of gene regulation, carbon source utilization and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. We show that STE12 is involved in regulating cellulase gene expression and growth on carbon sources associated with iron homeostasis. STE12 impacts gene regulation in a light dependent manner on cellulose with modulation of several CAZyme encoding genes as well as genes involved in secondary metabolism. STE12 selectively influences the biosynthesis of the sorbicillinoid trichodimerol, while not affecting the biosynthesis of bisorbibutenolide, which was recently shown to be regulated by the MAPkinase pathway upstream of STE12 in the signaling cascade. We further report on the biosynthesis of dehydroacetic acid (DHAA) in T. reesei, a compound known for its antimicrobial properties, which is subject to regulation by STE12. We conclude, that STE12 exerts functions beyond development and hence contributes to balance the energy distribution between substrate consumption, reproduction and defense.
Next Generation Sequence-Based Targeted Somatic Mutation Analysis in Thyroid Nodules with Pathologically Diagnosed as Indeterminate Cytology
Authors: Kök Gizem , Nart Deniz , Ertan Yeşim , Özbek Suha Sureyya , Mizrak Ali , Makay Özer , Erdoğan Mehmet , Özışık Hatice , Akın Haluk , Durmaz Burak , Özgür Su , Özdemir Murat , Karaca Emin
Published: January 2024

Purpose: The management of indeterminate thyroid nodules remains a topic of ongoing debate, particularly regarding the differentiation of malignancy. Somatic mutation analysis offers crucial insights into tumor characteristics. This study aimed to assist the clinical management of indeterminate nodules with somatic mutation analysis.
Methods: Aspiration samples from 20 indeterminate thyroid nodules were included in the study. A next-generation sequencing panel containing 67 genes was used for molecular profiling. The results were compared with pathology data from surgical material, which is considered the gold standard. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) were calculated.
Results: Variants in six genes (NRAS, BRAF, TP53, TERT, PTEN, PIK3CA) were detected in 10 out of 20 samples. We identified nine Tier 1 or 2 variants in 10 (67%) out of 15 malignant nodules (NRAS, BRAF, TP53, TERT, PTEN, PIK3CA) and one Tier 2 (PIK3CA) variant in one out of five benign nodules. The study demonstrated an NPV of 40%, a PPV of 90%, a specificity of 60%, and a sensitivity of 80%.
Conclusion: Based on the detected molecular markers, at least nine patients (45%) could be managed correctly without needing a repeat FNAB attempt. This study underscores the clinical practicality of molecular tests in managing nodules with indeterminate cytology. Additionally, this study emphasizes the importance of considering the patient's age when determining the DNA- or RNA-based genetic testing method. Finally, we discussed the significance of the somatic mutation profile and its impact on the current pathological classification.
Draft genome from facultatively parthenogenetic Opiliones indicates frequent mitonuclear sequence transfer and novel full-length insertions
Authors: Stellwagen Sarah , Burns Mercedes
Published: January 2024

Background: Facultative parthenogenesis and intra-population mixed ploidy are rare in animals. These unique characteristics allow opportunities to investigate the relationship between sexual modality and ploidy. We have completed a draft genome of the Japanese harvester ("daddy-longlegs") Leiobunum manubriatum, a species which reproduces sexually and asexually, and with mixed diploid and tetraploid populations in some areas.
Results: We combined Oxford Nanopore’s MinION long-read sequencing platform with Dovetail Hi-C scaffolding to assemble the haploid genome for the diploid race, which is approximately 336 MBp after collapsing heterozygous sequence. The assembly’s completeness was measured using BUSCOs from Eukaryota (complete: 92.6%), Arthropoda (complete: 96.9%), and Arachnida (complete: 95.3%). We searched raw sequence reads and the draft genome for nuclear mitochondrial DNA (numt) sequences. While only one complete mitochondrial genomic transfer was found in the draft genome, there are at least 12 complete numts across 9 reads within the raw sequencing data that were lost during the assembly process.
Conclusions: The genome of the L. manubriatum diploid race is an invaluable resource not only for opilionid research, but also for facilitating studies investigating the evolution of their unique reproductive mode and mixed ploidy. To our knowledge, this is the first published genome of a wild-derived facultative parthenogen. Future work will leverage this resource in comparative genomics and transcriptomics of L. manubriatum to understand the connection between ploidy and sexual strategy.
Mendelian Randomization Suggests Major Depression Increases Risk of Allergic Rhinitis
Authors: Shao Dianran , Kang Xiaoming
Published: January 2024

Background: Observational studies have suggested a potential correlation between major depression (MD) and a higher occurrence of allergic rhinitis (AR).
Methods: By employing two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR), this study explored the genetic causality between MD and AR. The summary-level data on MD were derived from the GWAS Catelog. The summary-level GWAS data on AR were extracted from the FinnGen Consortium. The MR analysis was carried out using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW), MR Egger, weighted median, and weighted mode methods. To further identify heterogeneity in the MR results, we applied the Cochrane's Q test. The sensitivity of this association was investigated by using leave-one-out analysis. We used the MR-Egger intercept method and the MR pleiotropy residual sum and outliers (MR-PRESSO) method to assess and address horizontal pleiotropy.
Limitation: Stratified analyses for other nations, races, or age ranges could not be performed due to the fact that our MR analysis relied on GWAS data of European ancestry.
Results: The Mendelian randomization analysis indicated that major depression is a significant risk factor for allergic rhinitis (P = 0.007, OR = 1.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] = [1.057-1.428]). No indication of genetic variation heterogeneity was discovered (P > 0.05), and horizontal pleiotropy seemed unlikely to influence causality. Last but not least, the leave-one-out test revealed that this link was strong and consistent.
Conclusion: This study genetically predicted major depression increased the risk of Allergic Rhinitis.