bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Case Study of Congressional Districting: ``Rocks-Pebbles-Sand'' Approach
Authors: Risk Jimmy , Switkes Jennifer , Zhang Ann
Published: August 2023

As a case study into an algorithmic approach to congressional districting, North Carolina provides a lot to explore. Statistical modeling has called into question whether recent North Carolina district plans are unbiased. In particular, the literature suggests that the district plan used in the 2016 U.S. House of Representatives election yields outlier results that are statistically unlikely to be obtained without the application of bias. Therefore, methods for creating strong and fair district plans are needed. Informed by previous districting models and algorithms, we build a model and algorithm to produce an ensemble of viable Congressional district plans. Our work contributes a ''Rocks-Pebbles-Sand'' concept and procedure facilitating reasonable population equity with a small overall number of county splits among districts. This case study indicates plausibility of an approach built upon an easy-to-understand intuition.
Occurrence of Heavy Metals Concentration in Grown Food Crops (Manihot Esculenta and Colocasia Esculenta) Around Disused Ogbete Coal Mine in Enugu Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Ogbuene Emeka Bright , Ezeanata G. Chinenye , Ogbuka Josiah C. , Achoru Fred E. , Alo Obianuju G. , Okolo J. Obiageli , Ozorme A. Vivian
Published: August 2023

The major food crops frequently consumed by many communities in southeastern Nigeria are Manihot esculenta (cassava) and Colocasia esculenta (cocoyam). The crops are sometimes grown in disused mining sites which could contaminate the crops and pose health risks. This study was conducted to assess the occurrence and concentration of heavy metals in the soil and crop samples Manihot esculenta (cassava) and Colocasia esculenta (cocoyam) around the disused coal mine area in Ogbete Enugu, Nigeria. The five heavy metals studied were (Cd, Cr, Zn, Ni and Pb). The samples included twenty-four crops of which eighteen were collected from three sampling locations (farmlands in the disused coal mine area). The control samples were collected from a farm in the GRA Enugu area (farmland without coal mining activity). Using a double acid digestion procedure, Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) was used in laboratory analysis. The data generated were analyzed using ANOVA. The result indicated that the concentration of (Cd, Cr, Zn, Ni and Pb) in the soil samples at the farm within the disused coal mine area were higher than the concentration in the control area except for Ni concentration which is below in the Farm 3. The occurrence and concentration of heavy metals in food crops range from (0.00 – 0.103 for Cadmium), (0.00- 0.851for chromium), (0.00- 0.187 for zinc), (0.00- 0.851 for Nickel), and (0.00 – 0.015 for lead). Some heavy metals' concentrations recorded were below the WHO limits. The low values recorded could be attributed to the fact that the study area is not an active mining site. Also in crop samples, especially cocoa yam Ni and Zn were below the concentration in the control. However, the study emphasized that food grown in the disused mining site could pose human health risks. Hence, the study recommends the continuous monitoring of heavy metal concentration in the Ogbete disused coal mine in Enugu, Nigeria. The study also suggests that cocoyam can be recommended for phytoremediation of soil polluted by Nickel and Zinc.
Pupillometry reveals effects of pitch manipulations both within and across words on listening effort and short-term memory
Authors: Zhang Yue , Sares Anastasia , Delage Arthur , Lehmann Alexandre , Deroche Mickael
Published: August 2023

For individuals with hearing loss, even successful speech communication comes at a cost. Cochlear implants transmit degraded acoustic, specifically pitch, information, which demands extra and sustained listening effort. The current study hypothesized that abnormal pitch patterns contribute to the additional listening effort, even in non-tonal language native speaking NH listeners. We manipulated the fundamental frequency within-and-across-words, while participants listen and repeat (simple intelligibility task), or listen, repeat, and later recall (concurrent encoding task) the words. In both experiments, the F0 manipulations resulted in small changes in intelligibility but no difference in free recall or subjective effort ratings. Pupillary metrics were more sensitive to these manipulations: peak pupil dilations were larger when words were monotonized (flat pitch contour) or inverted (the natural contour flipped upside-down), and larger when successive words were organized into a melodic pattern. Therefore, natural or expected pitch contour of a word can participate to its identity and facilitate its matching and retrieval from the phonological representation stored in the long-term memory. Consequently, degrading words’ pitch contour can result in extra listening effort. Our results call for solutions to improve pitch saliency and naturalness in future development of cochlear implants signal processing strategies, even for non-tonal languages.
Multi Criteria Decision Analysis, Hesitant Fuzzy Methodology towards to Expert Systems for analysing financial markets dynamics
Authors: Ferrara Massimiliano , Ciano Tiziana , Nava Consuelo Rubina , Cananà Lucianna
Published: August 2023

Decisions Support Systems are a mixture of different methods and tools combined by machine learning approach. This study uses the most important machine learning techniques (logistic regression, artificial neural networks, and support vector machines) and the expert-based method (fuzzy analytic hierarchy process and hesitant fuzzy numbers) to study some financial markets dynamics. The objective of the study is to examine the main approaches developed by theory and operational practice for the purposes of conceptual representation, management and quality assessment. Different tools are applied to support decisions makers, such as AHPSort II to model the hierarchical structure, FAHP to determine weights in the construction of the matrix of the pairwise comparison and Hesitant Fuzzy Sets (HFS) to better represent the preferences of the decisions makers.
From isolation to integration: Assessing habitat connectivity of the endangered saiga antelope in Mongolia
Authors: Chimeddorj Buyanaa , Buuveibaatar Bayarbaatar , Galsandorj Naranbaatar , Dolgorjav Sanjmyatav , Myanganbuu Nyamkhuu , Bayandonoi Gantulga , Sundev Gombobaatar
Published: August 2023

This study provides the first comprehensive assessment of habitat connectivity for the Mongolian saiga, a species endemic to the Western Mongolia. We utilized a resource selection function (RSF) to identify core habitats (CHs) throughout the saiga's entire range. Additionally, the Circuitscape approach was employed to map the least cost paths (LCPs) among these core habitats. The RSF models revealed a strong preference for high productivity areas, while avoiding disturbed regions. Through a spatially explicit model, 34 CHs covering an area of 12,480 km2 (30.7% of the saiga's range) were identified. The connectivity models identified 68 LCPs between various pairs of CHs, totaling 1,700 km in length across the entire saiga range. The core habitat in the center of the saiga range displayed the highest centrality scores, highlighting their critical importance in maintaining their habitat interconnectedness. Furthermore, the presence of pinch points was observed in several CH pairs within the northwest region, suggesting potential bottlenecks that may hinder movement between these habitats. It is imperative to implement measures aimed at addressing these pinch points and establishing secure corridors to facilitate the saiga movement between the CHs. To ensure the survival of the saiga, it is also crucial to mitigate the impact of existing and planned linear infrastructures, as well as other human disturbances that have the potential to fragment habitats and disrupt connectivity. These findings serve as valuable insights for targeted conservation efforts and the formulation of effective management strategies geared towards safeguarding this iconic species in Western Mongolia.
Network pharmacology and molecular docking in the exploration of Taohong Siwu decoction against coronary heart disease
Authors: Chen Shaolin , Yu Fenglian , Ye Mingfang , Gao Jia
Published: August 2023

Taohong Siwu decoction (TSD) is a traditional Chinese medicine formulation that has been widely used to treat coronary heart disease (CHD), although its underlying biological mechanism is unknown. Using gene or pathway terminology for analytical studies, protein‒protein interaction (PPI) network-based analysis, and PPI cluster recognition, we performed network pharmacology and molecular docking methods in this research. We used the MCODE method to evaluate the efficacy of TSD for CHD and to screen core targets. This research uses network pharmacology and molecular docking methods to first define the possible mechanism of TSD in the treatment of CHD.
Method: The active ingredients of TSD and their targets were obtained by TCMSP, and a drug-component-target map was constructed using Cytoscape software. The pathogenic targets of CHD were obtained through the Gene Cardsdatabase, and the intersection obtained between the screened targets and the drug targets was added to the STRING database to create a PPI network.Cytoscape was used to examine the results, and the core targets were screened in MCODE. In the DAVID database, overlapping targets underwent GO and KEGG analysis. Finally, the core targets and active ingredients were analyzed by molecular docking.
Result: The drug-ingredient-target network model has 216 nodes and 669 connections. Kaempferol, luteolin, and baicalein were the main substances with the highest degree values. AKT1, IL-6, and TNF are the primary receptors in the PPI network with the highest degrees. TSD therapy for CHD primarily involves control of cardiac contractility, and according to GO and KEGG analysis, lipid and atherosclerosis, the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway, smooth muscle hyperplasia, apoptosis, and death-induced signaling are involved. On the basis of molecular docking results, kaempferol, luteolin, and baicalein have high affinities for AKT1, IL-6, and TNF.
Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy According to Biopsychosocial Model: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Correlational Study
Authors: Sevincelli Selin , Ozdemir Leyla
Published: August 2023

Purpose The present study aimed to assess the biological health, perceived well-being and social well-being of cancer patients with CIPN within the scope of the biopsychosocial model.
MethodsThis study was conducted in oncology clinics and outpatient clinics of a research hospital. The sample comprised 109 patients who met the following inclusion criteria: age ≥ 18 years, completed at least three cycles of taxane and platinum chemotherapy treatment, showed peripheral neuropathy symptoms, could communicate in Turkish and provided consent to participate in the study. For data collection, Patient Information Form, Chemotherapy-induced Peripheral Neuropathy Scale (EQRTC QLQ CIPN20), Perceived Well-being Scale and Social Well-being Scale were used.
Results The EQRTC QLQ CIPN20 score was higher in those with high school and higher education than in those with primary school education and below. Perceived well-being was higher with the increase in age, in males, patients receiving only chemotherapy but no immunotherapy, patients without additional stressors, unemployed patients, patients receiving care support from their spouses at home and patients living with their spouses. The social well-being level was higher in those with higher age and number of treatments, those without stem cell transplantation, those without additional stressors, those with primary school education and below and those living alone. Conclusions These findings suggest that CIPN symptoms should be evaluated holistically and supportive care interventions should be developed for these patients.
Transitioning to healthy and sustainable diets has high environmental and affordability trade-offs for developing countries
Authors: Wang Zhen , Deng Zhongci , Hu Yuanchao , Li Cai , Wang Jingyu , He Pan , Bryan Brett
Published: August 2023

While dietary transitions offer benefits for both people and the environment globally, uncertainties persist regarding their impacts on the environment, human health, and food affordability across countries and over time. Here, we project water use, dietary quality, and food affordability from 2020–2100 under four healthy dietary scenarios and a baseline to assess potential challenges and opportunities at the country level over time. Using the MAgPIE model, we show that transitioning to healthy and sustainable diets could yield substantial enhancements in global dietary quality. However, in the initial phases, these transitions entail addressing water use and food affordability challenges. Yet, the advantages of transitions will manifest as the population and economy expand. By 2100, average dietary quality and food affordability could improve by 38.48% and 39.95%, and reduce water use by 10.82% globally. Nevertheless, we emphasize that sustainable development will be impeded in developing countries due to increased food demand, with a maximum deterioration in water use and food affordability of 2.54% and 29.25%, respectively. Although negative impacts will gradually subside as the dietary transition is completed, targeted interventions are still needed to improve water management and mitigate potential economic burdens during the dietary transition.
The therapeutic effect of hyperbaric oxygen therapy in patients with severe to profound idiopathic sudden sensorineural hearing loss
Authors: Choi Yeso , Han Sung Jun , Kim Sung Kyun , Hong Seok Min
Published: August 2023

The optimal treatment for sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is unclear. Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has been suggested as a viable option for treatment of SSNHL as it improves vascular dysfunction. In this study, we evaluated the therapeutic effects of HBOT by retrospectively reviewing the records of 2,206 patients with severe to profound SSNHL. 54 who had received HBOT were selected for the HBOT groups, while 59 age-matched controls who had not were selected for the control groups. The HBOT and control groups were divided into subgroups according to intratympanic steroid (ITS) use. Groups A–D had received oral steroids + HBOT, oral steroids only, oral steroids + ITS + HBOT, and oral steroids + ITS, respectively. Of the 113 SSNHL patients, 21 had diabetes mellitus (DM) (2, 0, 9, and 10 patients in Groups A–D, respectively).There was no notable difference in hearing improvement between patients receiving HBOT and those in the control group. However, among diabetic patients, those who underwent HBOT demonstrated a significant improvement in hearing when compared to the control group. The combination of HBOT and steroids could potentially be beneficial for treating severe to profound SSNHL patients with DM. Main Text
Comparison of complications between laparoscopic and open gastrectomies for early gastric cancer: a nationwide propensity score-matched cohort study
Authors: Song Jeong Ho , Min Jae-Seok
Published: August 2023

Background
The safety of laparoscopic gastrectomy compared with open surgery for the treatment of early gastric cancer (EGC) was not still identified on a national scale. This study aimed to compare the morbidity between laparoscopic and open gastrectomies for pathological T1 gastric cancer based on nationwide survey data.
Methods
Data from the Korean Gastric Cancer Association-led nationwide survey 2019 of 14,076 patients who underwent gastric cancer surgery were used. For patients with pathological T1 gastric cancer, the clinical characteristics were compared between the laparoscopic and open gastrectomy groups. Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to match the baseline characteristics of two groups.
Results
Among the 7,765 patients with pathological T1 gastric cancer who underwent open or laparoscopic gastrectomy, 612 pairs were matched. After balancing the baseline characteristics, laparoscopic gastrectomy group had significantly longer operative time, less blood loss, greater number of harvested lymph nodes, shorter hospital stays, and comparable morbidity, compared with open gastrectomy group (P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P < 0.001, P = 0.001, and P = 0.709, respectively). The surgical approach was not a risk factor for postoperative complication in logistic regression analysis.
Conclusions
The PSM analysis with 2019 Korean nationwide survey data demonstrated that laparoscopic gastrectomy showed comparable morbidity with open gastrectomy for EGC.
Vision degrading myodesopsia assessed with Optos ultra-widefield scanning laser ophthalmoscope
Authors: Lin Tiezhu , Shi Cheng , Wu Bing , Pazo Emmanuel Eric , Shen Lijun
Published: August 2023

Background
To investigate the diagnostic sensitivity of Optos imaging for vision degrading myodesopsia (VDM).
Methods
A total of 420 eyes from 345 patients with VDM were collected in this cross-sectional study. All eyes were classified as having posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) or not having PVD. The sensitivity of Optos imaging for the visibility of vitreous floaters was evaluated. The associated factors with the visibility of vitreous floaters on Optos images were analyzed in univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses.
Results
The mean age of all patients was 56.19 ± 13.89 years old, and 66.67% of patients were female. The vitreous floaters were visible on the ultrasound B scan in all eyes, but only in 47.62% of Optos images (55.29% in eyes with PVD and 15% in eyes without PVD). In the multiple binary logistic regression analysis, age (OR = 1.094, 95%CI = 1.063–1.125, P < 0.001), spherical equivalent (OR = 0.869, 95%CI = 0.791–0.955, P = 0.004) and the distance of the floaters from the retina (OR = 1.191, 95%CI = 1.059–1.339, P = 0.003) were significantly correlated with the visibility of vitreous floaters on Optos images. On Optos images, 25.71% of VDM eyes presented additional retinal abnormalities.
Conclusions
Optos imaging has a low sensitivity for vitreous floaters, particularly in eyes without PVD. On Optos imaging, floaters were more visible in older patients, eyes with greater myopia, and floaters that were further from the retina.
Incidence and temporal patterns of true recurrences and second primaries in women with breast cancer: a 10-year competing risk-adjusted analysis
Authors: Mancini Silvia , Bucchi Lauro , Biggeri Annibale , Giuliani Orietta , Baldacchini Flavia , Ravaioli Alessandra , Zamagni Federica , Falcini Fabio , Vattiato Rosa
Published: August 2023

Background The data available regarding the risk and timing of true breast cancer (BC) recurrences and second primaries are limited.
Methods We carried out a one-time, detailed manual review of multiple medical charts of 1988 eligible BC patients from the Emilia-Romagna Cancer Registry (northern Italy) (2000-2013). The occurrence and timing of all types of first true recurrences (TRs, including local, regional and distant recurrences) and second BCs (SBCs, including ipsilateral SBC and contralateral SBC) during 10 years of follow-up were evaluated. The types of recurrences were defined according to the Maastricht Delphi consensus. A competing risk-adjusted analysis was performed. The median recurrence-free interval, the smoothed subhazard functions, the subhazards (actuarial life table approach) and the cumulative incidence function of follow-up events were estimated. Prognostic factors for TRs and SBCs were identified using the Fine and Gray model. The observed total number of BC episodes was compared with the expected number of BCs based on registered incidence rates in the general population with the calculation of the age-standardised incidence ratio.
Results The median time to detection was 3.4 years for TRs versus 5.1 years for SBCs. The risk of total TRs had two peaks, one between the 2nd and the 3rd year of follow-up and another, of smaller size, between the 7th and the 8th year. The subhazard of SBCs fluctuated for 5 years, had a drop between the 6th and the 7th year and a marked peak between the 8th and the 9th. Prognostic factors for TRs included tumour stage, tumour grade, lymph node status and residual disease. Factors associated with the risk of SBCs included patient age and hormone therapy (inverse association). The excess incidence of total BC episodes as compared with the expected incidence of BC was huge in the first two years and no longer significant in the 9th/10th year.
Conclusions The novel and multifaceted evidence provided by this study warrants further research into the risk and timing of all types of recurrences during the follow-up of primary BC.
Modeling the Limits of Detection for Antimicrobial Resistance Genes in Agri-Food Metagenomic Samples
Authors: Cooper Ashley L. , Low Andrew , Wong Alex , Tamber Sandeep , Blais Burton W. , Carrillo Catherine D.
Published: August 2023

Background
Despite the potential for dissemination of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through food and food production, there are few studies of the prevalence of AMR organisms (AROs) in various agri-food products. Sequencing technologies are increasingly being used to track the spread of AMR genes (ARGs) in bacteria, and metagenomics has the potential to bypass some of the limitations of single isolate characterization by allowing simultaneous analysis of the agri-food product microbiome and associated resistome. However, metagenomics may still be hindered by methodological biases, presence of eukaryotic DNA, and difficulties in detecting low abundance AROs within an attainable sequence coverage. The goal of this study was to assess whether limits of detection of ARGs in agri-food metagenomes were influenced by sample type and bioinformatic approaches.
Results
We simulated metagenomes containing different proportions of AMR pathogens and analysed them for taxonomic composition and ARGs using several common bioinformatic tools. Bracken estimates of species abundance were closest to expected values. However, analysis by both Kraken2 and Bracken indicate presence of organisms not included in the synthetic metagenomes. MetaPhlAn3 analysis of community composition was more specific but with lower sensitivity than both Kraken2 and Bracken. Accurate detection of ARGs dropped drastically below 5X isolate genome coverage. However, it was sometimes possible to detect ARGs and closely related alleles at lower coverage levels if using a lower ARG-target coverage cutoff (< 80%). While KMA and CARD-RGI only predicted presence of expected ARG-targets or closely related gene-alleles, SRST2 falsely reported presence of distantly related ARGs at all isolate genome coverage levels.
Conclusions
Overall, ARGs were accurately detected in the synthetic metagenomes (approx. 40 million paired-end reads) by all methods when the ARO reads constituted > 0.4% of the reads (approximately 5X isolate coverage). Reducing target gene coverage cutoffs allowed detection of ARGs present at lower abundance; however, this reduced cutoff may result in alternative ARG-allele detection. Background flora in metagenomes resulted in differences in detection of ARGs by KMA. Further advancements in sequencing technologies providing increased depth of coverage or longer read length may improve ARG detection in agri-food metagenomic samples, enabling use of this approach for tracking low-abundance AROs in agri-food samples.
Which Scale to Assess Pain Self-efficacy Shows Better Measurement Properties in Chronic Low Back Pain? A head-to-head comparison study between Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire and Chronic Pain Self-Efficacy Scale
Authors: Turci Aline Mendonça , Spavieri Juliana Homem Padilha , de Lima Thamiris Costa , Silva Alexsander Pereira da , Christofolletti Amanda , Chaves Thais Cristina
Published: August 2023

Background There are two generic questionnaires available in the literature to assess pain self-efficacy: Pain Self-Efficacy Questionnaire (PSEQ) and the Chronic Pain Self-Efficacy Scale (CPSS). PSEQ is preferred rather than the CPSS. However, it is based in arbitrary judgement and not comparisons regarding the quality of their measurement properties. Hence, the aim of this study was to compare the quality of the measurement properties of PSEQ-10, PSEQ-4 and PSEQ-2 and CPSS (long-form: CPSS-LF and short-form: CPSS-SF) in patients with CLBP.Methods Two-hundred twenty patients with CLBP (18 and 60 years) were enrolled in this study. The participants were assessed in three occasions: baseline assessment, one-week after the first assessment (reliability) and after a six-week exercise program (responsiveness). The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Cronbach’s α were used to assess reliability and internal consistency, respectively. Spearman’s correlation and confirmatory factor analysis were used to assess construct validity. The area under the curve (AUC) were used to assess responsiveness.Results None difference was observed for all the questionnaires regarding internal consistency (Cronbach’s α > .7), criterion validity (r > .88) and responsiveness (AUC > .7). The scales confirmed more than 75% of the hypotheses for the construct validity, except for CPSS-SF. PSEQ-2 did not meet the criterion for reliability and structural validity.Conclusion This study showed that PSEQ-2 did not meet the criterion for suitable structural validity and reliability and CPSS-SF for construct validity. Hence, considering the administration burden of the long questionnaires like CPSS, our results recommend the use of PSEQ-10 and PSEQ-4.
Monitoring high-temperature sensor with optical performance in Terahertz Using graphene in power plant industries
Authors: Sharifi Hadi , Daraei Omid Mohsen , Pourziad Ali , Bemani Mohammad
Published: August 2023

Optical sensors getting widespread usage in almost every field, especially industries. A high thermal optical sensor is proposed to predict and prevent the environmental temperature in power plants. A high sensitivity, accuracy, low cost, compact size, linear operation, and suitable transmission coefficient optical sensor in a wide thermal range is achieved that changing the surrounding temperature has a severe effect on the conductivity of graphene which changes the transmission power of the sensor. In this article, the position of the graphene sheet affects the interaction of light and graphene, effectively. The Cylindrical diameter of the optical sensor is 4.1 lambda which is the smallest in size among the references checked and has the desired performance from room temperature to 2000 degrees Kelvin, indicating the suitable efficiency of the sensor and the fiber optic sensor with graphene coating has great potential in the field of measurement, especially in the temperature of the surrounding atmosphere in the industry.
Revolutionizing Agricultural Residue Burning Behavior with Virtual Training: Exploring the Transtheoretical Model
Authors: Naseri Naser , Geravandi Shahpar , Rostami Farahnaz
Published: August 2023

Most of the research conducted on the Transtheoretical Model of Change (TTM) has focused on health and psychological issues, with limited application in the context of agricultural and environmental behavior change. However, in this innovative study, the effectiveness of interventionist virtual education in changing the behavior of burning crop residues was examined using the behavior change theory. The research employed an experimental design and a quasi-experimental pre-test/post-test design with a control group. The statistical population consisted of 400 wheat farmers, and a sample of 120 participants was selected using purposive sampling. Data were collected through a researcher-made questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS software. The questionnaire comprised four constructs: self-efficacy, the process of change, decisional balance, and stages of behavior change. The findings of this study demonstrate that virtual education based on the TTM model can pave the way for effectively managing agricultural residues by enhancing self-efficacy and facilitating the process of change. Moreover, the results highlight the broader applicability of the TTM model beyond the domains of health and psychological pathology. It can be effectively utilized to address environmental behaviors, such as agricultural residue management. Consequently, it is recommended that researchers and planners incorporate the TTM model in behavior change programs, transform the traditional perspective on agricultural education, and leverage virtual education as a complementary approach to formal education.
The clinical characteristics and predictors of patients with ischemic stroke caused by spontaneous internal carotid artery dissection
Authors: Zhong Xuemin , Li Li , Li Gongbo , Wang Jian , Chen Yangmei , Li Changqing , Song Min
Published: August 2023

Background: Few studies have examined the clinical characteristics and predictors of ischemic stroke caused by spontaneous internal carotid artery dissection (sICAD). This study aimed to investigate the clinical characteristics and predictors of patients with ischemic stroke caused by sICAD to provide clinical guidance and a basis for treatment.
Methods: Clinical characteristics, outcomes, and predictors were investigated in consecutive patients with ischemic stroke caused by sICAD between January 2018 and January 2022 at Three Grade III Class A general public hospitals in southwest China. We screened 102 patients with ischemic stroke caused by ICAD for follow-up, of which 11 were lost to follow-up.
Results: Of the 91 patients included in this study, 84 had unilateral and seven had bilateral stroke, with a mean follow-up modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 1(0-3). Sixty-six (72.5%) of the 91 patients had mRS scores of 0-2. On multivariate analysis, low baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores (P ＜ 0.01; odds ratio [OR]: 1.39; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–1.73) and endovascular stenting (P ＜ 0.01; OR: 0.10; 95% CI: 0.02–0.50) were independent predictors of a favorable clinical outcome. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis showed an area under the curve of 0.94.
Conclusions: Favorable outcomes were observed in majority of patients with ischemic stroke caused by sICAD. Additionally, lower NIHSS scores and stent implantation were independent predictors of favorable outcomes.
A New Multiple Imputation Approach Using Machine Learning to Enhance Climate Databases in Senegal
Authors: Toure Mory , Klutse Nana Ama Browne , Sarr Mamadou Adama , Kenne Annine Duclaire , Bhuiyanr Md Abul Ehsan , Ndiaye Ousmane , Badiane Daouda , Thiaw Wassila Mamadou , Sy Ibrahima , Mbow Cheikh , Sall Saïdou Moustapha , Gaye Amadou Thierno
Published: August 2023

This study aims at enhancing climate data in Senegal using information from the Global Surface Summary of the Day (GSOD). It uses data from 1991 to 2022 from major secondary synoptic stations in Senegal. These data are subject to missing values (data gaps). To address these gaps, multiple imputation was used based on three machine learning models: PMM (Predictive Mean Matching), RF (Random Forest), and NORM (Bayesian Linear Regression). The PMM model relies on averages of similar data, the RF model handles complex relationships between variables, even on an intra-seasonal scale, while the NORM model captures seasonal variations and extreme values. The results highlight the higher performance of the RF model in terms of accuracy and variance explanation compared to the others. The findings of this study open new avenues for informed decision-making in sectors such as agriculture and urban planning, where accurate climate data play a crucial role. However, while this study lays the groundwork for better utilization of climate data in Senegal, challenges persist, including the ongoing need to collect high-quality data and adapt models to data intricacies.
The effect of organic pollution on the seasonal dynamics of water quality of Hammam Boughrara Dam that is located in a semi-arid zone in the northwestern city of Tlemcen (Algeria)
Authors: Rezak Salima , Bergane Cheikh , Bahmani Abdellah
Published: August 2023

The present study aims to assess the impact of human activities on the water quality of Hammam Boughrara Dam, while highlighting the importance of seasonal variations of the organic pollution indicator parameters. The COD/BOD5 Ratio (CBR) values, over the period mentioned above, revealed the dominance of two categories, namely Moderately Biodegradable Effluent (MBE) and Difficult to Biodegrade Effluents (DBE) or Non-Biodegradable Effluents (NBE), with significant seasonal variations. The MBE category showed a maximum frequency in autumn (29 occurrences) and a minimum frequency in spring (20 occurrences), while the DBE or NBE category had a maximum frequency of 26 during winter and a minimum frequency of 21 during the autumn season. The analysis of Organic Pollution Index (OPI) revealed that the water of the dam under study is strongly impacted by organic pollution, with significant seasonal variations. This is confirmed by the predominance of the Organic Pollution (OP) category, with a maximum frequency in autumn and summer seasons (25 occurrences) and minimum in spring (21 occurrences), as well as by the Very Strong Organic Pollution (VSOP) category, with a maximum frequency in winter (23 occurrences) and minimum in summer (11 occurrences). The box-plot graphs showed positive skew, while others exhibited a negative one, with significant seasonal variations in the InterQuartile Range (IQR). It should also be mentioned that the correlation of the Organic Pollution Index (OPI) with the concentrations of NH₄⁺ and PO₄³⁻ ions is higher than that of the OPI with BOD5 and NO₂⁻. However, it must be recognized that the correlation between the OPI and BOD5 as well as NO₂⁻ remains significant at 1% threshold level. Moreover, the correlation coefficients showed significant seasonal variations. It is worth noting that the OPI showed a positive correlation with the dam’s water volume, during all four seasons, with correlation coefficients varying significantly for each season. On the other hand, the OPI exhibited negative correlation with COD, TDS and \({NO}_{3}^{-}\) concentrations in some seasons. In addition, positive correlations were observed between the concentrations of \({NH}_{4}^{+}\)and \({PO}_{4}^{3-}\) ions, as well as between the concentrations of \({NH}_{4}^{+}\) and \({NO}_{2}^{-}\) ions, throughout the four seasons.
Identification of CXCL16 as Diagnostic Biomarker Related to Obesity and Intervertebral Disc Degeneration based on Machine Learning
Authors: Liu Jiahao , Zhang Jian , Zhao Xiaokun , Pan Chongzhi , Liu Yuchi , Luo Shengzhong , Miao Xinxin , Wu Tianlong , Cheng Xigao
Published: August 2023

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) of the spine stands as the primary cause of neck and back pain. Obesity has been established as a significant risk factor for IDD. The objective of this study is to explore the molecular mechanisms attributable to the influence of obesity on IDD by identifying the overlapping causative genes associated with both conditions. The identification of specific diagnostic biomarker in obese patients with IDD would have crucial clinical implications.We obtained gene expression profiles of GSE70362 and GSE152991 from GEO, followed by their analysis using two machine learning algorithms, Lasso and SVM-RFE, which enabled the identification of CXCL16 as a shared diagnostic biomarker for obesity and IDD. Additionally, In addition, gene set variant analysis (GSVA) was used to explore the potential mechanism of CXCL16 in the disease, and CXCL16 was found to have an effect on disc degeneration by affecting fatty acid metabolism. Further, correlation analysis between CXCL16 and immune cells demonstrated that CXCL16 negatively regulated T helper 17 cells to induce IDD. Finally, independent external datasets (GSE124272 and GSE59034) were used to verify the diagnostic efficacy of CXCL16. In conclusions, a common diagnostic biomarker of obesity and IDD, CXCL16, was identified using a machine learning algorithm, providing a new perspective for exploring possible mechanisms of secondary IDD in obesity.
Real-world effectiveness of GLP-1RAs on Time in Range in pati ents with type 2 diabetes: A retrospective study
Authors: Chen Yongru , Chen Jingxian , Chen Fengwu , Zhang Shuo , Deng Feiying , Liang Yun , Zheng Jiaxiong , Duan Yale , Hou Kaijian , Zhao Yue
Published: August 2023

Presently, there is a lack of real-world evidence on the efficacy of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) for improving Time in Range (TIR). To address this, we investigated the effect of GLP-1RAs on TIR among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients in real-world clinical practice. This multi-center, retrospective, real-world study included T2DM patients who previously used a Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) system and received treatment with GLP-1RAs or oral antidiabetic drugs (OADs). According to propensity score matching, 238 patients were equally divided between the GLP-1RA and OAD groups. After 3–6 months of treatment, the TIR for the GLP-1RA and OAD groups was 75.2% and 67.2%, respectively (p < 0.001). The GLP-1RA group displayed a significantly lower Time above Range (TAR) and mean glucose than the OAD group (p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis revealed that, compared with that of liraglutide, administration of semaglutide and polyethylene glycol loxenatide (PEG-Loxe) significantly improved TIR over 3–6 months of treatment (p < 0.001). Taken together, these real-world findings indicate that GLP-1RAs are superior to OADs for improving TIR among T2DM patients and that a once-weekly GLP-1RA may be more effective than a once-daily GLP-1RA.
Research on the antioxidant activity and plant growth-promoting effect of extracts from Fagopyrum esculentum grown under the conditions ofPrimorsky kray, Russia
Authors: Klykov A. G. , Borovaya S. A. , Murugova G. A. , Timoshinova O. A. , Chaikina E. L. , Chingizova E. A.
Published: August 2023

Currently, a promising direction for the development of organic agriculture is research on the potential and action spectrum of biologically active compounds produced by vascular plants and the improvement of technologies for their application in production. Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) is a plant species with an exceptional ability to produce secondary metabolites, including flavonoids. It was discovered that F. esculentum plants, especially those with red and red-green stems, were a promising source of flavonoid compounds (up to 3%). Buckwheat extracts had high antioxidant activity, which varied from 19.8–99.4% depending on their concentration, and positively influenced root formation in F. esculentum plants. The strongest growth-promoting effect on plant roots was produced by 0.1-1.0% extracts from buckwheat variety Bashkirskaya krasnostebel’naya and local varieties Izumrud and Pri 7 with red and red-green stems. Treating buckwheat plants with the extracts from F. esculentum under the conditions of Primorsky kray (Russia) at the stages of bud formation increased the accumulation rate of flavonoids in their fruits up to 0.22%. The extracts from F. esculentum might be used in organic agriculture as the natural sources of biologically active compounds for promoting the growth of cultivated plants.
An integrated machine learning model for soil category classification based on CPT
Authors: Bai Ruihan , Shen Feng , Zhang Zhiping
Published: August 2023

Soil classification is a critical issue in geological engineering, with the Cone Penetration Test (CPT) being an effective in-situ testing technique to record the variation of soil characteristics. Despite many studies that have been conducted on the relationship between CPT parameters and soil categories, analyzing soil in specific areas is essential due to the high uncertainty of geotechnical. In this study, we analyzed CPT parameters and soil categories based on geological soil layers in the Shanghai region. The CPT-based indirect method requires additional geotechnical parameters, which are limited due to the lack of advanced equipment to measure pore pressure in China. To satisfy practical application requirements, we proposed a new CPT-based direct method based on an integrated machine-learning model. By establishing multiple classification models and using Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) to determine each model's weights, the results of multiple models were integrated to improve classification accuracy and robustness. The experimental results show that the integrated model has high accuracy and robustness in multiple engineering sites, with significant advantages over conventional CPT-based direct methods.
Mechanical properties of the combined medium-diameter anti-slide piles and tunnels under landslide loads at different sliding zone angles
Authors: Li Tao , Tian Yongtao , Chen Gang , Li Jiaxing , Luo Bo
Published: August 2023

The interaction of landslides and existing tunnels in the field of geotechnical engineering is currently a hot research topic. This paper introduces a novel combined medium-diameter pile support system for existing tunnels. The main objective is to investigate the accumulation landslide tunnel as a prototype. The study examines the deformation characteristics of both the existing tunnel and the combined medium-diameter pile support system through a combination of model tests and numerical simulations. The following conclusions were obtained: As the angle of the sliding zone increases, the deformation of the pile body and the tunnel lining structure gradually decreases, leading to a reduction in both earth pressure and bending moment values. When the angle of the sliding zone is ≤ 30°, the horizontal thrust from the landslide has a significant impact on the tunnel lining structure. However, when the angle of the sliding zone >30°, the influence of the horizontal thrust decreases significantly, while the proportion of vertical load on the arch foot gradually increases. Factors such as pile spacing, pile type, and anchorage depth were analyzed through numerical simulation. The findings suggest that for sliding zone angles ≤ 30°, the primary concern lies in the impact of the landslide’s horizontal thrust on the tunnel structure. Conversely, for angles >30°, the attention shifts to the effects of the vertical load induced by the landslide body on the tunnel lining structure.
Nanoencapsulation of Green Tea Catechins : Cellular uptake, Transepithelial transport, and Bioefficacy of Epigallocatechin-3-gallate
Authors: Tyagi Taniya , Kumar G. Phani
Published: August 2023

Green tea catechins (GTCs) are known for their anti-oxidant activity due to presence of Epigallaocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Excessive degradation and poor intestinal absorption render it ineffective. Present study is focused on enhancing the cellular uptake and intestinal absorption of EGCG through nanoencapsulated GTCs (GTC-NPs) in Caco-2 cell lines, with the ultimate goal of enhancing its bioefficacy using chitosan nanocarriers. The stability, cytotoxicity and cellular uptake studies of EGCG from GTCs and GTC-NPs were studied. The net flux and net efflux were estimated to understand the overall transepithelial transport in a polarised Caco-2 monolayer. Intestinal absorption prediction studies were carried out at different temperatures as well using different absorption stimulators. H2O2-induced oxidative stress was applied to determine the protective effect of EGCG from GTCs and GTC-NPs. The results of the study showed stability of EGCG from GTCs and GTC-NPs in HBSS buffer (pH 7.4 and pH 6.5) with reducing agent (ascorbic acid) up to 95% and 97%, respectively. Cellular uptake studies showed 3-fold improvement in the uptake of EGCG from GTC-NPs. Transepithelial transport studies have confirmed 5.6-fold increase in flux and 3.9-fold decrease in the efflux of EGCG with nano-encapsulation. The cytotoxicity studies against H2O2-induced oxidative stress confirmed the increased bioefficacy of nano-encapsulated GTCs. These findings are encouraging and demonstrates that the use of EGCG in drug delivery systems with the enhanced bio-asbsorption and bio-efficacy.
Construction and validation of eight cuproptosis-related lncRNAs signature for predicting prognosis and immune response in melanoma
Authors: Guan Yuanyuan , Dong Quping , Deng Huiling , Chen Yuxuan , Wang Jiecong , An Ran
Published: August 2023

Background:Skin cutaneous melanoma (SKCM) is the highly heterogeneous and fatal form of skin cancer with a very high incidence. A recently identified copper-dependent regulated cell death process called cuproptosis has been linked to apoptosis in several tumor species. Nevertheless, its role in melanoma metastasis is unclear. This investigation seeks to investigate the relationship between cuproptosis associated genes (CRGs) and the prognosis of melanoma patients.Methods:The TCGA database was used to find clinical information on patients with SKCM. 80% of the data was randomly selected for analysis. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) associated with cuproptosis were identified using the Pearson correlation algorithm. Genes related with cuproptosis were screened from previous studies, and lncRNAs related with them were validated as candidates for prognostic features of SKCM. The least absolute shrinkage selection operator (LASSO) algorithm and univariate as well as multivariate COX regression analyses were used in the study to develop a prognostic model. In addition, the efficacy of this model was confirmed using the remaining 20% of the data.Results: A new prognostic model was established by screening eight lncRNAs associated with cuproptosis. Furthermore, functional enrichment analysis, the immune microenvironment analysis, and immune escape analysis were carried out. The results demonstrated that in the landscape of the immunological microenvironment, the low-risk group exhibited greater immunocompetence than the high-risk group.Conclusions:The tests assessing the reliability and validity of the model demonstrated that the established prognostic model for CRGs can accurately predict the prognosis of melanoma and could be useful in guiding subsequent treatment.
Increased risk of colon cancer with levothyroxine supplementation: A two-sample Mendelian randomized study
Authors: Yao Zhaoying , Wu Guoqing , Li Yao , Zhang Xue , Xia Min , Pan Lulu , Li Huixin , Li Xi , Zhang Dengshan , Tan Xiying
Published: August 2023

Purpose
Findings from observational studies have yielded conflicting results on the relationship between levothyroxine supplementation and the beginning of colorectal cancer (CRC). We used the largest genetic epidemiological methods to investigate whether levothyroxine medication treatment is causally associated with new-onset CRC.
Methods
The causal effect of levothyroxine use on the incidence of CRC was investigated using a comprehensive two-sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) analysis. Single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for levothyroxine sodium use were identified from Genome-wide association study (GWAS) of UK Biobank. Causal estimate was determined by inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method. To assess the validity of the causality, we also performed additional sensitivity tests.
Results
We included 40 SNPs. Levothyroxine sodium use was associated with an increased risk of CRC (IVW OR = 1.01; 95% CI 1.002–1.019, p = 0.01). No indication of pleiotropy/heterogeneity of effect sizes was found in the current study.
Conclusion
Using a TSMR method, we found that levothyroxine treatment is linked to a greater CRC risk. Our results highlight the need to increase colonic screening among levothyroxine users.