bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of BP neural network algorithm in visualization system of sports training management
Authors: Zhao Yinghui
Published: March 2023

When constructing the algorithm model of sports training action classification, the accuracy of action classification has an important impact on the algorithm model. How to improve the algorithm model to improve the accuracy of sports training action classification needs further research. Based on BP neural network algorithm, this paper carries out the modeling of BP neural network signal classification algorithm and the construction of BP neural network, and deduces the BP algorithm in detail. Firstly, this paper applies genetic algorithm to the initial parameter selection of BP algorithm to avoid the local optimization problem. When carrying out chromosome coding, binary coding is easy to cause the problem of too long coding string, which also needs to be restored and decoded. The algorithm runs too long and the learning accuracy is not high. Therefore, this paper uses real coding. Through simulation analysis, it can be seen that the classification accuracy of the improved algorithm model is significantly higher than that of the simple BP algorithm. In addition, this paper analyzes the requirements of the sports training management visualization system, introduces the system structure framework and network topology, describes in detail the functions of the user information management module, the training plan management module, the training test management module, the competition information management module and the scientific research information management module, and tests the visualization function of the system. Finally, this paper analyzes the problems existing in the current sports training management, and puts forward the development strategy of sports training management based on this, which lays a theoretical foundation for the scientific development of sports training.
Low-light Image Enhancement by Edge Attention Guidance and Multi-scale Feature Fusion
Authors: Zhang Yali , Meng De , Lei Zhichun
Published: March 2023

Images captured at low-light environment often suffer from low brightness, insufficient contrast and detail loss, which hinders further processing and application of the images. Thus, a low-light image enhancement algorithm based on the edge attention guidance and multi-scale feature fusion is proposed. First, a dense residual network is constructed as a feature extractor, and the extracted feature maps at different scales are fused by using a modified RefineNet, which makes full use of the feature information in the image. Second, an edge attention mechanism is designed to generate an attention map based on the edge detection results. Instead of attention networks, the attention map is combined with the loss function to guide the network training. This way, the edge detail information hidden in the dark is enhanced without increasing the network inference burden as well as the network complexity. Experiments performed on synthetic and low-illumination dataset images show that the proposed method can effectively improve the image brightness and contrast, restore image edge details.
The combined lifestyle intervention CooL in times of COVID-19: a descriptive case series study
Authors: Janssen Ester , Philippens Nicole , Kremers Stef , Crutzen Rik
Published: March 2023

Background
The main objective of this nationwide study was to investigate changes over time of participants after eight months of participation in the Combined Lifestyle Intervention CooL (Coaching on Lifestyle) regarding health perceptions, self-mastery, dietary intake, physical activity, alcohol use, smoking, sleep, stress management and anthropometry. Since the study took place when the COVID-19 pandemic emerged, we were able to address changes over time while participants were exposed to pandemic-related restrictions and uncertainties.
Methods
Data were collected from November 2018 until October 2021 at different locations across the Netherlands from 1824 participating adults, meeting the Combined Lifestyle Intervention inclusion criteria. We collected a broad set of data on anthropometrics, behaviours and health perceptions.
Results
The results indicate that the COVID-19 pandemic impacted negatively on changes in self-mastery, perceived fitness and stress, but not on anthropometric outcomes, diet, sleep or social support. Overall, the outcomes show improvements in health perceptions, behaviours and weight after eight months compared to baseline. The largest effect sizes were found on weight, waist circumference, perceived health and the awareness around diet (i.e. attentiveness for diet, amount of food and consuming food).
Conclusion
Participating in CooL appeared to protect against engaging in unhealthy behaviour during the pandemic, despite a decreased sense of self-mastery and increased stress. The results support the lifestyle coaching approach that small changes in multiple behaviours can synergistically contribute to better (perceived) health and health-related outcomes.
Structure-guided inhibition of the cancer DNA-mutating enzyme APOBEC3A
Authors: Jameson Geoffrey , Harjes Stefan , Kurup Harikrishnan , Rieffer Amanda , Bayarjargal Maitsetseg , Filichetva Jana , Su Yongdong , Hale Tracy , Filichev Vyacheslav , Harjes Elena , Harris Reuben
Published: March 2023

The normally antiviral enzyme APOBEC3A1-4 is an endogenous mutagen in many different human cancers5-7, where it becomes hijacked to fuel tumor evolvability. APOBEC3A’s single-stranded DNA C-to-U editing activity1-8 results in multiple mutagenic outcomes including signature single-base substitution mutations (isolated and clustered), DNA breakage, and larger-scale chromosomal aberrations5-7. Transgenic expression in mice demonstrates its tumorigenic potential. APOBEC3A inhibitors may therefore comprise a novel class of anti-cancer agents that work by blocking mutagenesis, preventing tumor evolvability, and lessening detrimental outcomes such as drug resistance and metastasis. Here we reveal the structural basis of competitive inhibition of wildtype APOBEC3A by hairpin DNA bearing 2’-deoxy-5-fluorozebularine in place of the cytidine in the TC recognition motif that is part of a three-nucleotide loop. The nuclease-resistant phosphorothioated derivatives of these inhibitors maintain nanomolar in vitro potency against APOBEC3A, localize to the cell nucleus, and block APOBEC3A activity in human cells. These results combine to suggest roles for these inhibitors to study A3A activity in living cells, potentially as conjuvants, leading toward next-generation, combinatorial anti-mutator and anti-cancer therapies.
Knowledge on Obstetric Emergencies and Birth Preparedness Among Pregnant Adolescents: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Adoma Prince Owusu , Ofori William , Baidoo Michael Afari , Abebrese Jacob Kwadwo Amponsah
Published: March 2023

Background
Maternal mortality among adolescents remains high, meanwhile, it is an avoidable tragedy which can be prevented by increasing adolescent knowledge of obstetric emergencies and improving birth preparedness. The study aimed to assess pregnant adolescents’ knowledge of obstetric emergencies and their birth preparedness in Techiman Municipality, Ghana.
Methods
In the facility-based survey, the target population consisted of 3 months and above pregnant adolescents (16–19 years) who resided in the municipality and attended ANC at Holy Family Hospital in Techiman. A consecutive sampling technique was used to select 422 pregnant adolescents for the study with a questionnaire as the instrument for data collection. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 20. Moreover, frequency, percentages, chi-square, and binary logistic regression were applied in the data analysis.
Results
The results show that the majority of the respondents 233 (55.2%) had heard about obstetric emergencies and most of them 344 (81.5%) were able to notice danger signs in pregnancy. Meanwhile, 68.2% of the respondents were poorly prepared for delivery. Moreover, chi-square, bivariate and multivariate analysis revealed that the age of respondents, educational status, ethnicity, religion, marital status, number of children, and monthly income were statistically significant on knowledge and obstetric emergency preparedness. However, employment status was not statistically significant.
Conclusion
The study concludes that if pregnant women, especially adolescents, are given in-depth information regarding obstetric emergencies; they will not only be able to notice them but also take actions to deal with them. Moreover, if the adolescents’ educational status, marital status, and monthly income are improved, it will go a long way to increase the knowledge and emergency preparedness among the pregnant adolescent.
Isolation and characterization of soil cyanobacteria and microalgae and evaluation of their potential as plant biostimulants
Authors: Roque Jéssica , Brito Ângela , Rocha Mariana , Pissarra João , Nunes Telma , Bessa Márcia , Vieira Jorge , Vieira Cristina , Melo Paula , Tamagnini Paula
Published: March 2023

Background and Aims Biocrusts are found on soil surface resulting from an association between soil particles and microorganisms. Photoautotrophic cyanobacteria and microalgae are pioneers on biocrusts formation, promoting soil stability, nutrients availability and water retention, leading to the development of other communities. This work aimed at isolating and characterizing cyanobacteria and microalgae from biocrusts (Central Portugal) and to assess their potential as plant biostimulants, as well as obtaining an insight into their mechanism(s) of action.
Methods Microorganisms were isolated through successive spread plating and serial dilutions and characterized using a polyphasic approach. An initial screening was performed using exudates from each microorganism and two plant species, Arabidopsis thaliana and Lolium multiflorum. Subsequently, the selected microorganisms were tested as a consortium in hydroponic systems. Biometric and biochemical parameters were evaluated for both plant species.
Results The consortium microorganisms belong to genera often found in soils/biocrusts: Trichocoleus, Nodosilinea, and Microcoleus (filamentous cyanobacteria), Klebsormidium (filamentous microalga), and Nostoc (diazotrophic heterocystous cyanobacteria). The consortium showed biostimulant potential in hydroponic cultures, promoting both plant species growth and enhancing physiological productivity related parameters. Stress related parameters revealed that the presence of the microorganisms did not lead to a stressful situation. However, a significant increase in proline was observed, endorsing a role of this molecule in this process.
Conclusion This study contributes to the knowledge on the biodiversity of cyanobacteria and microalgae from Portuguese soils and highlights their potential as biostimulants, constituting a step forward towards understanding the molecular mechanisms behind this effect.
Predicting reference evapotranspiration in semi-arid-region by regression- based machine learning methods using limited climatic inputs
Authors: Sammen Saad Sh. , Kisi Ozgur , Al-Janabi Ahmed Mohammed Sami , Elbeltagi Ahmed
Published: March 2023

Accurately estimation of evapotranspiration is very essential for water resources planning and management projects. In this study, different regression-based machine learning techniques including support vector machine (SVM), random forest (RF), Bagged trees algorithm (BaT) and Boosting trees algorithm (BoT) were adopted in order to model daily reference evapotranspiration (ET0) for semi-arid region. Five stations in Hemren catchment basin located at the North-East part of Iraq were selected as case study. Several climatic parameters including solar radiation (SR), wind speed (Us), relative humidity (RH), and maximum and minimum air temperatures (Tmax and Tmin) of 35 years (1979–2014) period were used as inputs to the models. Assessment of the methods with various input combinations indicated that the RF method especially with Tmax, Tmin, Tmean & SR inputs provided the best accuracy in estimating daily ET0 in all stations. It was followed by the BaT and BoT methods while the SVM had the worst accuracy. In some cases, 1st input scenario (Tmax, Tmin, Tmean, SR, WS and RH) provided slightly better accuracy than the 2nd input scenario (Tmax, Tmin, Tmean & SR).
Evaluating pain management and complications from peripheral nerve block and intravenous patient-controlled analgesia for geriatric patients following bipolar hemiarthroplasty for displaced femoral-neck fracture
Authors: Lee Tae Sung , Kwon Hyuck Min , Park Jun Young , Park Min Cheol , Park Kwan Kyu , Choi Yong Seon
Published: March 2023

Introduction:The purpose of this study was to evaluate peripheral nerve block (PNB) effectiveness on postoperative pain management and surgical outcomes for displaced femoral-neck fracture in geriatric patients (>70 years) who underwent bipolar hemiarthroplasty (BHA).Methods:From January 2017 to December 2021, 231 geriatric patients with displaced femoral-neck fracture who consecutively underwent BHA were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were divided into two groups: patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) group (n=132) who received only intravenous (IV) PCA for postoperative pain management, and all others who received PNB with IV PCA (PNB+PCA) such as femoral nerve block or fascia iliaca compartment block after surgery (n=99). Primary outcomes were postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) at rest and during activity at 6, 24, and 48 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were postoperative complications, changes in hemoglobin (Hb), length of hospital stay, and total morphine usage after surgery.Results:Postoperative resting VAS at 6 hours and 48 hours was significantly lower in the PNB+PCA group compared with the PCA group (p=0.075, p=0.0318, respectively). However, there was no significant difference in either resting VAS at 24 hours or active VAS. Complications of pneumonia and delirium until one month postoperative were significantly lower in the PNB + PCA group than the PCA group (p=0.0022, p=0.0055, respectively).Conclusion:PNB with IV PCA seems to have a beneficial effect on geriatric femoral-neck patients who underwent BHA with postoperative analgesia for reducing postoperative resting pain and complications, especially pneumonia and delirium.
Analysis of clinical characteristics of thyroid disorders in patients with chronic hepatitis B treated with pegylated-interferon alpha
Authors: Liu Yisi , Zheng Yanhong , Lin Xiao , Cao Zhenhuan , Lu Junfeng , Ma Lina , Ren Shan , Zheng Sujun , Hu Zhongjie , Xu Bin , Chen Xinyue
Published: March 2023

Background
Thyroid disorders (TD) is a common complication of pegylated-interferon alpha (Peg-IFNα) therapy. Few studies have investigated the relationship between TD and the efficacy of interferon therapy for chronic hepatitis B. Therefore, we analyzed the clinical characteristics of TD in patients with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) treated with Peg-IFNα, and evaluated the correlation between TD and Peg-IFNα treatment efficacy.
Methods
In this retrospective study, the clinical data of 146 patients with CHB receiving Peg-IFNα therapy were collected and analyzed.
Results
During the course of Peg-IFNα therapy, positive conversion of thyroid autoantibodies and TD occurred in 7.3% (85/1158) and 8.8% (105/1187) patients, respectively, and was diagnosed more often in women. The most common thyroid disorder was hyperthyroidism (53.3%), followed by subclinical hypothyroidism (34.3%). We found that thyroid function returned to normal in 78.7% of patients with CHB, and thyroid antibody levels returned to the negative range in approximately 50% of patients after interferon treatment cessation. Only 25% of patients with clinical TD required treatment. Compared with patients with hypothyroidism/subclinical hypothyroidism, patients with hyperthyroidism/subclinical hypothyroidism showed greater reduction and seroclearance of hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) levels.
Conclusions
TD are not an absolute contraindication for interferon therapy; however, patients should be monitored closely during interferon therapy. In pursuit of functional cure, a balance between efficacy and safety must be achieved.
Stigma associated with mental stress and reduced quality of life among HIV-infected women in western China:a cross-sectional study
Authors: Feng Ying , Xia Yan , Guo Rui , Li Yuefei , He Qian , Ni Mingjian
Published: March 2023

Background: Stigma has been identified as a crucial risk factor for mental stress and quality of life among HIV-infected patients. However, little attention has been paid to these factors among Asian populations and women rendered vulnerable by their psychological characteristics. In addition, the relationships between stigma, social capital, mental stress and quality of life remain to be elucidated.
Methods: A total of 553 HIV-infected women were recruited in Xijiang, China from September 2021 to August 2022. Stigma was assessed using the 12-item Short HIV Stigma scale; mental stress (anxiety, depression) was assessed using the 20-item Self-Rating Anxiety scale (SAS) and 10-item Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression (CESD) scale; social capital was assessed using the Personal Social Capital Scale (PSCS-8);quality of lifewas assessed using the WHO QOL-HIV-BREF scale.
A generalized linear model (GLM) and structural equation model (SEM) were used to examine the associations between stigma, social capital, mental stress and quality of life.
Results: The HIV-related stigma scale showed actual discrimination score 6.57±2.56, fear of publicity score 7.31±2.34, public attitude score 6.56±2.52, and negative self-image score 6.74±2.55. Quality of life scores were 11.87±2.33 (physiological domain), 9.91±2.42 (psychological domain), 13.31±3.17 (social relation domain) and 11.19±2.84 (environmental domain). SAS-20 and CESD-10 scores were 81.25±50.11 and 9.02±5.55, respectively. After adjusting for age, education, marital status, employment status, residence and monthly income, each 10-point increase in stigma score was associated with 49.3% (OR=1.493, 95%CI:1.218, 1.840) and 51.5% (OR=1.515, 95%CI:1.235, 1.868) increases in anxiety symptoms and depression risk, respectively. In the SEM, stigma was associated with mental stress (β=0.25, p=0.014), which decreased the quality of life of HIV-positive women (β=0.17, p=0.032). The direct effect of social capital on mental stress was significant (β=0.18, p=0.033).
Conclusion: Stigma and depression play important roles in quality of life among HIV-infected women. Immediate measures should be taken to reduce stigma and provide psychological guidance, which might contribute to decreasing mental stress and improving quality of life among HIV-infected women.
HBsAg ≤ 135 IU/mL or HBcrAg ≤ 3.6 logU/mL was associated with HBsAg loss after nucleos(t)ide analogue cessation
Authors: Xie Yandi , Li Minghui , Ou Xiaojuan , Zheng Sujun , Gao Yinjie , Xu Xiaoyuan , Yang Ying , Ma Anlin , Li Jia , Nan Yuemin , Zheng Huanwei , Liu Juan , Wei Lai , Feng Bo
Published: March 2023

Background
Since hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) loss is rarely achieved with nucleos(t)ide analogue (NA) treatment, most patients require life-long NA treatment. Previous studies have shown that a proportion of patients remained virological response after NA cessation. Whether NA discontinuation can increase HBsAg loss rate is still under controversial. This study was conducted to assess the cumulative rate of HBsAg loss and identify predictors of HBsAg loss after NA discontinuation
Methods
In this multicenter prospective study, initially HBV e antigen (HBeAg)-positive patients without cirrhosis who met the stopping criteria were included from 12 hospitals in China. Enrolled patients stopped NA and were followed up with clinical and laboratory assessments every 3 months for 24 months after NA cessation or until clinical relapse (CR) occured.
Results
Overall 158 patients were divided into two groups. Group A included patients with HBsAg positive when NA cessation (n=139) and Group B included patients with HBsAg negative when NA cessation (n=19). In Group A, the 12-month and 24-month cumulative rates of HBsAg loss were 4.3% and 9.4%, respectively. End of treatment (EOT) HBsAg (hazard ratio (HR) = 0.152, P < 0.001) and EOT hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg) (HR = 0.257, P = 0.001) were associated with HBsAg loss. The area under the receiver operating characteristic value of the EOT HBsAg and HBcrAg were 0.952 (P < 0.001) and 0.765 (P< 0.001), respectively. Patients with EOT HBsAg ≤ 135 IU/mL (59.2% vs 1.3%, P < 0.001) or HBcrAg ≤ 3.6 logU/mL (17% vs 5.4%, P = 0.027) had higher 24-month cumulative HBsAg loss rate. In Group B, none of patients had virological relapse after NA cessation. Only 1 (5.3%) patient had HBsAg reversion.
Conclusions
EOT HBsAg ≤ 135 IU/mL or HBcrAg ≤ 3.6 logU/mL can identify patients with more chance to be HBsAg loss after NA cessation. Patients with HBsAg negative when NA cessation have favorable clinical outcomes and HBsAg loss was durable in most cases.
Intelligent analytics algorithms in breach detection systems for securing VANETs and data for smart transportation management
Authors: J Bhuvana , HASHMI HINA , Adhvaryu Rachit , Kashyap Sneha , Kumari Savita , Wadhwa Durgesh
Published: March 2023

In-vehicle communication has developed into a crucial element of today's driving environment as a result of the expanding additions of sensor-centric communication as well as computing devices inside a vehicle for a variety of purposes, consists of vehicle monitoring, physical wiring minimization as well as driving efficiency. The relevant literature on cyber security for in-vehicle communication methods does not, however, currently offer any certain solutions for in-vehicle cyber hazards. The existing solutions, which mostly rely on protocol-specific security approaches, do not provide a comprehensive security framework for in-vehicle communication. This study aims to develop an effective data transmission and intelligent machine learning technique for smart vehicle management in VANET breach detection. In this study, ensemble adversarial Boltzmann CNN architecture is used to detect breaches. The secure short hop opportunistic local routing protocol is then used to send the data. Throughput, QoS, training accuracy, validation accuracy, and network security analysis are all part of the experimental analysis for a variety of security-based datasets. the proposed technique attainedthroughput of 88%, QoS of 77%, training accuracy of 93%, validation accuracy of 96%, network security analysis of 63%, scalability of 75%.
Association between Breakfast Frequency and Metabolic Syndrome among young adults in South Korea
Authors: Kim Hyo Myoung , Kang Hyun Jung , Lee Dong Hoon , Jeong Su-Min , Joh Hee-Kyung
Published: March 2023

Skipping breakfast is highly prevalent but it is not clear whether breakfast frequency is associated with metabolic syndrome in young adults. We aimed to assess the association between breakfast frequency and metabolic syndrome in Korean young adults. This cross-sectional study was based on health check-up data of university students aged 18-39 years between 2016 and 2018. Participants were stratified into three groups based on breakfast frequency (non-skipper, skipper for 1-3 days per week, and skipper for 4-7 days per week). Meal patterns were classified into healthy, fair, and unhealthy patterns by combination of breakfast frequency, binge eating frequency, and meal regularity. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of metabolic syndrome. Of the total 12,302 participants, 56.8% skipped breakfast for 3 days or more per week. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was higher among participants skipping breakfast for 3 days or more per week than non-skipper (3.1% vs. 1.7%). In the age- and sex-adjusted model, individuals skipping breakfast for 4-7 days per week had a higher OR of metabolic syndrome (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.21-2.49) compared to non-skipper. Although this association became insignificant (OR 1.49, 95% CI 0.99–2.23) after multivariable adjustment, trends of positive association between frequency of breakfast skipping and metabolic syndrome was significant (P for trend = 0.038). Among components of metabolic syndrome, high blood pressure was significantly associated with frequent breakfast skipping (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.09-1.65). Binge eating and having irregular meals was not significantly associated with metabolic syndrome. Individuals with unhealthy meal patterns had a higher OR of metabolic syndrome compared to those with healthy meal patterns (OR 1.80, 95% CI 1.02-3.19). Frequent skipping breakfast was associated with higher odds of metabolic syndrome in young adults. Unhealthy meal patterns were significantly associated with higher odds of metabolic syndrome (p < 0.001). Further longitudinal studies in the long term are needed to understand the association of meal patterns with metabolic syndrome.
WITHDRAWN: Roughness in L-algebras
Authors: Zhan Qiuyan , Saeid A. Borumand
Published: March 2023

The aim of this paper is to introduce rough approximation on L−algebras. We investigate the relationship between subalgebras, ideals and rough subalgebras, rough ideals of L−algebras, and study homomorphic images of rough ideals on L−algebras. Furthermore, the rough set algebra as an L−algebra is expressed by select the implication operator appropriately. Continue the study of fuzzy set theory on L−algebras, we apply rough fuzzy set theory on L−algebras, we construct a representation theorem that determines when a pair of fuzzy sets is a rough fuzzy set on L−algebras. Finally, uncertainty measures on L−algebras and the relationship between rough operations and uncertainty measures of L−algebras are studied. We verify that there is a bijection between the low approximation and inner measure on L−algebras.
MSC(2010): 03B50, 06A15, 03B47, 03E72.
Does non-farm employment increase rural households’ consumption: Empirical Evidence from West Ethiopia?
Authors: Dufera Wakuma , Bedemo Amsalu , Kebede Temesgen
Published: March 2023

In rural areas where the farmer's livelihood is based on farming, non-farm activity was considered as an additional source of income that plays an important role in improving household consumption. The Hackman results indicate that non-farm participation decision of households has positive significant effect on their level of household consumption. Incomes of the household, education level and family size have positive significant effect on household consumption. Variables such as education, access to credit, membership to iqub, household health status, access to training, and own savings, were identified to be the main factors positively influencing household decision to non-farm with a statistical significant level. The study's recommendation was; provide various pieces of farm and non-farm training provide the infrastructure that is a barrier to rural development and develop the culture of saving in the community.
A systematic literature review of the HPV prevalence in locally-regionally advanced (LA) and recurrent/metastatic (RM) head and neck cancers through the last decade: The ‘ALARM’ study
Authors: Agelaki Sofia , Boukovinas Ioannis , Athanasiadis Ilias , Trimis Georgios , Dimitriadis Ioannis , Poughias Lazaros , Morais Edith , Ugne Sabale , Bencina Goran , Charalampos Athanasopoulos
Published: March 2023

Background: ‘ALARM’ is a systematic review of available literature aiming to provide updated information on the prevalence of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in locally-regionally advanced (LA) and recurrent/metastatic (RM) head and neck cancer (HNC) worldwide.
Methods: Electronic searches were conducted on clinicaltrials.gov, MEDLINE (via Pubmed), Embase and ASCO/ESMO journals of congresses for interventional studies (IS; phase I-III trials) as well as MEDLINE and Embase for non-interventional studies (NIS) of LA/RM HNC published between 01Jan2010 and 31Dec2020. Criteria for study selection included: availability of HPV prevalence data for patients with LA/RM HNC, patient enrollment from 01Jan2010 onwards, and oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) included among HNC types. HPV prevalence per study was calculated as proportion of HPV-positive (HPV+) over total number of HNC enrolled patients. For overall HPV prevalence across studies, mean of reported HPV prevalence rates across studies and pooled estimate, i.e., sum of all HPV+ patients over sum of all HNC patients enrolled, were assessed.
Results: Eighty-one studies (62 IS; 19 NIS) were included in this evidence synthesis, representing 9607 LA/RM HNC cases, with an overall mean (pooled) HPV prevalence of 32.6% (25.1%). HPV prevalence was 44.7% (44.0%) in LA and 24.3% (18.6%) in RM. Among 2714 LA/RM OPC patients from 52 studies with available data, the mean (pooled) value was 55.8% (50.7%). The majority of published HPV prevalence data were derived from countries in Northern America and Europe, with overall HPV prevalence of 46.0% (42.1%) and 24.7% (25.3%) across studies conducted exclusively in these geographic regions, respectively. Mean (pooled) HPV prevalence in Northern Europe was 31.9% (63.1%), numerically higher than the European average. A “p16-based” assay was the most frequently reported HPV detection methodology (58.0%).
Conclusion: Over the last decade, at least one quarter of LA/RM HNC and half of OPC cases studied in IS and NIS were HPV+, with variation across disease stages and geographic regions. This alarming burden is consistent with a potential implication of HPV in the pathogenesis of at least a subgroup of HNC. The observed rates underscore the relevance of HPV testing and prophylaxis to the prevention and management of these cancers.
PROSPERO Number: CRD42021256876
Identifying pathological differentiation of cervical squamous cell carcinoma with APTw and IVIM
Authors: Xin Zhonghong , Peng Jianhong , Lian Jianxiu , Lu Xiande , Nan Jiang , Zhang Yaping , Chen Zixian , Wang Xiaohui , Zhu Jun , Lei Junqiang
Published: March 2023

Background
Cervix Squamous cell carcinoma(CSCC) is the most common pathological subtypes of cervix carcinoma(CC). CSCC can be divided into poorly differentiated, moderately differentiated and well-differentiated types. The pathological differentiation is essential for the treatment and prognosis of CSCC. Compared with the well-differentiated CSCC patients, poorly differentiated CSCC patients have poor clinical prognosis. The biopsy is the golden standard for identifying pathological differentiation with the disadvantages including invasive. Therefore, an imaging method is needed to determine the degree of tumor differentiation before surgery.
Purpose
The objective is to explore APTw and IVIM values in diagnosing the differentiation degree of cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC).
Methods
APTw was scanned by using 3D Multi-shot TSE for obtaining APT signal intensity (APT SI). IVIM was scanned by using 12 b values (0, 20, 100, 150, 200, 300, 400, 500, 600, 800, 1000 and 1200 s/mm2) to calculate parameters: D, D*, and f. ADC was calculated based on 2 b values (0, 800 s/mm2). The parameters among different groups were compared by t-tests. Diagnostic performance was evaluated with a ROC analysis.
Results
56 patients and 30 healthy volunteers were included in study. Patients were divided into: a well-moderately differentiated group (n = 34) and a poorly differentiated group (n = 22). The parameters (APT SI, ADC, D, f) were statistically significantly different between CSCC and normal cervix. APT SI of the CSCC was higher than that of normal cervix (P < 0.001). The ADC, D, and f of the CSCC were lower than those of normal cervix (P < 0.001). Significant differences were found in APT SI and D between the well-moderately differentiated and poorly differentiated group (P < 0.001). Comparing the well-moderately differentiated and poorly differentiated group, AUC of APT SI, D and f were 0.789, 0.775 ,and 0.670, sensitivity were 72.73%, 68.18%, 77.27%, and specificity were 79.41%, 82.35%, 64.71%, respectively (P < 0.05).
Conclusion
APTw and IVIM can be used to diagnose CSCC and provide accurate quantitative information. Compared with IVIM, APTw has higher diagnostic performance in identifying the differentiation degree of CSCC.
WITHDRAWN: Robust Egyptian Arabic License Plate Character Recognition Approach from Moving Vehicles
Authors: SayedElahl M. A.
Published: March 2023

The recognition of Arabic license plates from moving vehicles is a highly demanding task in the field of computer vision. This problem is relevant to various applications such as cross-border security, law enforcement, and intelligent transportation systems. The goal of this task is to accurately identify the characters on the license plate, despite the challenges posed by different lighting conditions, font styles, and aspect ratios of characters. This paper proposes a new and robust method for recognizing Arabic license plates from moving vehicles. The method utilizes an enhanced expert system that combines the power of deep learning and domain-specific knowledge to address the challenges posed by variations in lighting conditions, font styles, and aspect ratios. The system localizes the license plate in an image using an object detection model, followed by the segmentation and recognition of individual characters using a character recognition model trained with deep neural networks. The results of experiments in various outdoor settings demonstrate the superiority of the proposed method over existing methods in terms of recognition accuracy and robustness. This study represents an important step towards the development of practical license plate recognition systems and has potential applications in cross-border security, law enforcement, and intelligent transportation systems.
A ‘golden’ alternative for prevention of cisplatin nephrotoxicity in bladder cancer
Authors: Sharon Yoray , Motiei Menachem , Tzror-Azankot Chen , Sadan Tamar , Popovtzer Rachela , Rosenbaum Eli
Published: March 2023

Cisplatin (CP) is the first-line standard of care for bladder cancer. However, a significant percentage of advanced bladder cancer patients are ineligible to receive standard CP treatment, due to the drug’s toxicity, and in particular its nephrotoxicity. These patients currently face suboptimal therapeutic options with lower efficacy. To overcome this limitation, here we designed CP-conjugated gold nanoparticles (GNPs) with specific properties that prevent renal toxicity, and concurrently preserve the therapeutic efficacy of CP. Safety and efficacy of the particles were studied in bladder tumor-bearing mice, using clinically-relevant fractionated or non-fractionated dosing regimens. A non-fractionated high dose of CP-GNP showed long-term intratumoral accumulation, blocked tumor growth, and nullified the lethal effect of CP. Treatment with fractionated lower doses of CP-GNP was also superior to an equivalent treatment with free CP, demonstrating both anti-tumor efficacy and prolonged mouse survival. Moreover, as opposed to free drug, CP-conjugated GNPs did not cause fibrosis or necrosis in kidney. These results indicate that conjugating CP to GNPs can serve as an effective, combined anti-cancer and renoprotective approach, and thus has potential to widen the range of patients eligible for CP-based therapy.
Bovine milk derived exosomes affect gut microbiota of DSS-induced colitis mouse
Authors: Li Tonghao , Chen Xiaolin , Liu Yuhang , Hua Rong , Qi Qien , Feng Xin
Published: March 2023

We hypothesized that oral administration of bovine milk derived exosomes (MDEs) can positively regulate the gut microbiota thus may alleviate the Dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)-induced colitis in mice. Total of 42 specific pathogen free (SPF) male BALB/c mice (3 weeks old) were randomly assigned to three groups including control/blank group (Blnk), DSS group (DSS) and Exosome group (Exo), with 7 replicates/cages per treatment and two mice in one cage. 16S rRNA gene sequencing of cecal digesta samples was conducted. DSS significantly decreased the average daily feed intake of mice in DSS and Exo groups (P = 0.03). Shannon index of the DSS group was significantly lower than the Blnk group (P < 0.05) whereas no difference between the Blnk group and Exo group were observed. Administration of MDEs tended to increase the relative abundance of Campylobaterota. The relative abundance of Roseburia was significantly decreased in the DSS group compared to the Blnk group (P < 0.05) whereas no difference was observed between the Exo group and Blnk group. Oral gavage of MDEs also tended to increase the relative abundance of Lachnospiraceae_UCG_006. In conclusion, oral gavage of 10 µL MDEs (1 mg/ml) affected gut microbiota of DSS-induced colitis mouse but the effects were limited.
A Novel Approximation Method for the Solution of Coupled Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Johnston Daniel , Cartmell Matthew
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we describe and illustrate the application of a novel approximation technique for coupled, nonlinear dynamic systems. The technique begins by obtaining the analytical (or approximate analytical) solutions to the uncoupled system. Then, these solutions are used to approximate particular terms in the fully-coupled, nonlinear system in such a way that the target system is amenable to (approximate) analytical solution algorithms. This work forms part of a larger effort to develop robust control systems for large-scale industrial manipulators. To this end, the final example examined in this work considers the FutureForge manipulator: a state-of-the-art manipulator which forms part of a next-generation forging platform under development at the Advanced Forming Research Centre in Glasgow. To show the breadth of applications of our approach, we also apply it to more widely-recognised models like the Rayleigh and Van der Pol oscillators. In both of these cases, we consider a system of two oscillators each having dynamic behaviour described by Rayleigh/Van der Pol oscillators and coupled together through the resulting damping matrices.
Abnormal changes of IL3/IL3R and its downstream signaling pathways in the prion infected cell line and in the brains of scrapie infected rodents
Authors: Jia Xiao-Xi , Chen Cao , Hu Chao , Chao Zhi-Yue , Zhang Wei-Wei , Wu Yue-Zhang , Fan Qin , A Ru-Han , Liu Xin , Xiao Kang , Shi Qi , Dong Xiao-Ping
Published: March 2023

Interleukin 3 (IL-3) plays an important role in hematopoiesis and immune regulation, brain IL-3/IL-3R signaling has been shown to involve in the physiological and pathological processes of a variety of neurodegenerative diseases, but its role in prion diseases is rarely described. Here, the changes of IL-3/IL-3R and its downstream signaling pathways in a scrapie infected cell line and in the brains of several scrapie infected rodent models were evaluated by various methods. Markedly decreased IL-3Rα were observed in the brains of scrapie infected rodents at terminal stage and in the prion infected cell model, which showed increased in the brain samples collected at early and middle stage of infection. The IL-3 levels were almost unchanged in the brains of scrapie infected mice and in the prion infected cell line. Morphological assays identified close co-localization of the increased IL-3Rα signals with NeuN- and Iba1-positive cells, whereas co-localization of IL-3 signals with NeuN- and GFAP-positive cells in the scrapie infected brain tissues. Some downstream components of IL-3/IL-3R pathways, including JAK2-STAT5 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways, were downregulated in the brains of scrapie infected rodents at terminal stage and in the prion infected cells. Stimulation of recombinant IL-3 on the cultured cells showed prion that the prion infected cells displayed markedly more reluctant responses of JAK2-STAT5 and PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways than the normal partner cells. These data suggest that although prion infection or PrPSc accumulation in brain tissues does not affect IL-3 expression, it significantly downregulates IL-3R levels, thereby inhibiting the downstream pathways of IL-3/IL-3R and blocking the neuroregulatory and neuroprotective activities of IL-3.
An efficient and simple catalytic method for the synthesis of pyrimido[1,2- a]benzimidazole and 1‐ (benzothiazolylamino) methyl‐ 2‐ naphthol derivatives using ZnO@SO 3 H@Tropine
Authors: Rahimizadeh Fatemeh , Mazloumi Masoumeh , Shirini Farhad
Published: March 2023

In this research, a simple, efficient and green method for the one-pot three-component synthesis of pyrimido[1,2-a]benzimidazole and 1‐ (benzothiazolylamino) methyl‐ 2‐ naphthol derivatives is reported using a new nanoporous catalyst formulated as ZnO@SO3H@Tropine. Further analysis of the catalyst for its characterization has been performed using thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). Among the advantages of the current method are: high yields, reusability of the catalyst, ease of operation, clean reaction profiles, ease of separation and simple work-up.
Genotypic variation in deep roots: implications for nitrogen uptake and drought tolerance in winter wheat
Authors: Odone Arnesta , Popovic Olga , Thorup-Kristensen Kristian
Published: March 2023

Background and Aims

Deep roots are needed to allow uptake of N and water available in the deeper soil layers, to help tolerate increasingly extreme climates. Yet few studies in the field have been able to identify genetic differences in deep roots and how this relates to N and water uptake. This study aimed to identify the relationship between deep roots and tolerance to drought, how this varies by genotype and with differing N fertilization.

Methods

We grew 14 diverse genotypes of winter wheat in a semi-field facility in Denmark, in 2019 and 2020, with a soil depth gradient and a rain-out shelter to create a water stress. We used minirhizotron tubes reaching to 2.5m depth to quantify differences in deep roots. We applied isotope tracers (15N and 2H labelled water) at 1.6-1.8m at anthesis to assess differences in root function. 13C in grain and straw was used to assess drought stress.

Results

We found differences in deep roots between genotypes, and slightly less deep root growth when more N was applied. Deep roots were correlated with grain yield, uptake of deep-placed tracers of water and N, and tolerance to drought. Genotypes with deeper roots had the biggest decrease in water stress and increase in grain yield, when their roots had access to deeper soil.

Conclusion

Deeper roots were related to drought tolerance and increased yields. This suggests that deep rooting should be considered in future breeding efforts for more climate resilient crops.
Ginsenoside Rg1 ameliorates depressive-like behavior by inhibiting NLRP3 inflammasome activation in mice exposed to chronic stress
Authors: He Hui , Xie Xiaofang , Kang Xixi , Zhang Jinqiang , Wang Lu , Hu Nan , Xie Lei , Peng Cheng , You Zili
Published: March 2023

Objectives: Microglia-mediated inflammatory process is recognized as a target in the treatment of depression. Ginsenoside Rg1 (GRg1), the active ingredient of traditional ginseng, regulates microglial phenotypes to resist stress-induced inflammatory responses. Here we used a mouse model of stress-induced depression to investigate the involvement of microglial Nod-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) in the antidepressant effects of GRg1.
Methods: Male C57BL/6J mice were exposed to chronic mild stress (CMS) for three weeks, followed by intraperitoneal injection of GRg1 (20 mg/kg) or the antidepressant imipramine (20 mg/kg) for another three weeks. Depressive-like behaviors were assessed by sucrose preference test, forced swimming test, and tail suspension test. Microglial phenotypes were assessed in terms of morphological features and cytokine profiles; inflammasome activity, in terms of levels of complexes containing NLRP3, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing CARD (ASC) and caspase-1; and neurogenesis, in terms of numbers of proliferating, differentiating, and mature neurons identified by immunostaining.
Results: GRg1 reduced abnormal animal behaviors caused by CMS, such as anhedonia and desperate behaviors, without affecting locomotor behaviors. GRg1 also reduced the number of ASC-specks, implying inhibition of inflammasome activation, which was associated with weaker activation of pro-inflammatory microglia. At the same time, GRg1 rescued impairment of hippocampal neurogenesis in vivo and in vitro, which correlated with modulation of microglial phenotypes.
Conclusion: GRg1 appears to exert antidepressant effects by preventing stress from activating the NLRP3 inflammasome in microglia, promoting a proneurogenic phenotype and allowing adult hippocampal neurogenesis.
Early detection of Chikungunya virus utilizing the Surface Plasmon Resonance comprising of Silver-Silicon-PtSe 2 Multi-Layer Structure
Authors: Singh Thangjam Iboyaima , Singh Pawan , Karki Bhishma
Published: March 2023

The sensing performance parameters of the SPR sensors are sensitivity, detection accuracy, figure of merit (FOM) and full width half maximum (FWHM), and it has been discussed with Refractive index of analyte 1.33, 1.35, 1.38 and 1.39. In this, we proposed a multilayer structure comprising nano films of Ag, Silicon, PtSe2 for the early diagnosis of chikungunya virus. The suggested sensor structure consists of BK7 (Borosilicate Crown) coupling prism over which the nano film of silver metal is present. The layer thicknesses and the number of PtSe2 sheets are optimized for the high performance. At the operating wavelength of 633 nm, a Kretschmann based SPR sensor has been proposed which gives highest sensitivity of 287.3 Deg/RIU. The principal of attenuated total reflection has been employed for the performance analysis of the sensor.
TNES: Terrain Traversability Mapping, Navigation and Excavation System for Autonomous Excavators on Worksite
Authors: Guan Tianrui , He Zhenpeng , Song Ruitao , Manocha Dinesh , Zhang Liangjun
Published: March 2023

We present a terrain traversability mapping and navigation system (TNS) for autonomous excavator applications in an unstructured environment. We use an efficient approach to extract terrain features from RGB images and 3D point clouds and incorporate them into a global map for planning and navigation. Our system can adapt to changing environments and update the terrain information in real-time. Moreover, we present a novel dataset, the Complex Worksite Terrain (CWT) dataset, which consists of RGB images from construction sites with seven categories based on navigability. Our novel algorithms improve the mapping accuracy over previous methods by 4.17 - 30.48% and reduce MSE on the traversability map by 13.8 - 71.4%. We have combined our mapping approach with planning and control modules in an autonomous excavator navigation system and observe 49.3% improvement in the overall success rate. Based on TNS, we demonstrate the first autonomous excavator that can navigate through unstructured environments consisting of deep pits, steep hills, rock piles, and other complex terrain features. In addition, we combine the proposed TNS with the Autonomous Excavation System (AES), and deploy the new pipeline, TNES, on a more complex construction site. With minimum human intervention, we demonstrate autonomous navigation capability with simple excavation tasks.