bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the Bax inhibitor-1 Family in Cauliflower and Functional Analysis of BobBIL4
Authors: Liu Xin , Guo Ning , Li Shasha , Duan Mengmeng , Wang Guixiang , Zong Mei , Han Shuo , Wu Zhihan , Liu Fan , Zhang Junjie
Published: August 2024

The Bax inhibitor-1 (BI-1) gene family, which is required for plant growth, development, and stress tolerance, remains largely unexplored in cauliflower. In this study, we identified and characterized cauliflower BI-1 family genes. On the basis of aligned homologous sequences and collinearity with Arabidopsis genes, we identified nine cauliflower BI-1 genes, which encoded proteins that varied regarding length, molecular weight, isoelectric point, and subcellular localization (i.e., Golgi apparatus, plasma membrane, cell membrane, and chloroplast). Phylogenetic analyses detected evolutionary conservation and divergence among these genes. Ten structural motifs were identified, with Motif 5 crucial for inhibiting apoptosis. According to the cis-regulatory elements in their promoters, these genes likely influence hormone signaling and stress responses. Expression profiles among tissues highlighted the diversity in the functions of these genes, which were significantly expressed in the silique and root. Focusing on BobBIL4, we investigated its role in brassinosteroid (BR)-mediated root development and salt stress tolerance. BobBIL4 expression levels increased in response to BR and salt treatments. The functional characterization of this gene in Arabidopsis revealed it enhances root growth and salinity tolerance. These findings provide insights into BI-1 gene functions in cauliflower, while also highlighting the potential utility of BobBIL4 for improving crop stress resistance.
The Impact of The Earning Management Practices on Performance of Bank Sector in Jordan
Authors: Al-Hawtmeh Omar M. , Alleimoun Audeh Atieh , Obeidat Ghassan
Published: August 2024

This research aims to investigate and conduct the impact of earnings management practices on the performance of the banking sector in Jordan. Data were collected from 24 main commercial banks from (2015 – 2021). The study examine how earnings management practices affect banking sector performance using debt ratios and equity ratios based on firm size and debt ratios, and measure the impact of earnings management on it using regression analysis. The result of the study reveal that a positive and statistically significant association between equity per share (EPS) and return on investment (ROI) with earnings management practices, also, earnings management techniques are positively and significantly impacted by return on equity (ROE), the hypothesis that returns on investment (ROI) encourage business managers to employ earnings management strategies. Also, the study show that dependent variables of earnings management is measured as a debt ratio and equity ratio. Variables that are independent or explanatory of earnings management are considered independent variables.
Population Dynamics of the Mite Varroa destructor in Honey Bee (Apis mellifera) Colonies in a Temperate Semi-Arid Climate
Authors: Medina-Flores Carlos Aurelio , Saucedo Rojas Alejandro , Guzman-Novoa Ernesto , Alaniz Gutiérrez Luis
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to analyze the population dynamics of the mite Varroa destructor in honey bee (Apis mellifera) colonies in a temperate semi-arid climate in Mexico. Ten colonies homogeneous in population, food stores, and levels of mite infestation, were used. The mite infestation rate in brood and adult bees, total number of mites, daily mite fall, brood and adult bee population, and food stores, were determined periodically for 10 months. There was a significant effect (P <0.05) of sampling period on the population of V. destructor in adult bees, brood, total mite population, and daily fallen mites. The total mite population increased 26% on average per colony. The increase in brood amount reduced the mite infestation rate in adult bees, and the opposite occurred when the brood decreased. Monitoring V. destructor populations by recording fallen mites is more reliable than determining mite infestation rates in bees, as mite fall has a dynamic pattern similar to that of the total mite population. The best period to apply an acaricide treatment in the region of study is between November and December because most mites were in the phoretic phase, since there was less brood in the colonies compared to other times.
Recycled Carbon Black/Hdpe Composite from Waste Tires: Manufacturing, Testing and Aging Characterization
Authors: Billotte Catherine , Romana Laurence , Flory Anny , Kaliaguine Serge , Ruiz Eduardo
Published: August 2024

This study addresses the global issue of recycling used vehicle rubbish tires, typically burned out or trimmed to be reused in playground floors or road banks. In this study we explore a novel environmentally responsive approach or decomposing and recovering the carbon black particles contained in tires (25-30 wt.%) by vacuum pyrolysis. Given that carbon black is well known for its UV protection in plastics, the objective of this research is to provide an ecological alternative to commercial carbon black of fossil origin by recycling the carbon black (rCB) from used tires. In our research, we create a composite material using rCB and high density polyethylene (HDPE). In this article we present the environmental aging studies carried out to this composite material. The topographic evolution of the samples with aging and the oxidation kinetic of the surface and through the thickness were studied. A Beer-Lambert law is used to relate the oxidative index to the characteristic depth of the samples. This work helps to demonstrate the feasibility of using recycled carbon black particles from waste tires as a filler for UV protection.
Estimating Time-to-Death and Determining Risk Predictors for Heart Failure Patients: Bayesian AFT Shared Frailty Models Using INLA Method
Authors: Ashine Tafese , Likassa Habte , Chen Ding-Geng
Published: August 2024

Heart failure is a major global health concern, especially in Ethiopia. Numerous studies have analyzed heart failure data to inform decision-making, but these often struggle with limitations to accurately capture death dynamics and account for within-cluster dependence and heterogeneity.
Addressing these limitations, this study is then to incorporate the dependence and to analyze heart
failure data to estimate survival time and identify risk factors affecting patient survival. The data, obtained from 497 patients at Jimma University Medical Center in Ethiopia, were collected between July 2015 and January 2019. Residence was considered as the clustering factor in the analysis. We employed the Bayesian accelerated failure time (AFT), and Bayesian AFT shared gamma frailty models, comparing their performance using the Deviance Information Criterion (DIC) and Watanabe-Akaike Information Criterion (WAIC). The Bayesian log-normal AFT shared gamma frailty model had the lowest DIC andWAIC, with well capturing cluster dependency that attributed to unobserved heterogeneity between patient residences. Unlike other methods that use Markov-Chain Monte-Carlo (MCMC), we applied the Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation (INLA) to reduce computational load. The study found that 39.44% of patients died, while 60.56% were censored, with a median survival time of 34 months. Another interesting finding of this study is by adding frailty into the Bayesian AFT models has boosted the performance in fitting the heart failure dataset. Significant factors reducing survival time included age, chronic kidney disease, heart failure history, diabetes, heart failure etiology, hypertension, anemia, smoking, and heart failure stage. The Bayesian model also showed lower standard errors for parameters compared to other methods, highlighting the importance of frailty models in accurately assessing survival time in heart failure patients.
Tropical Building Sustainability and the Energy Regulations
Authors: Babalola Olatunde , Ugah Ugah Uzodinma Kelechi , Ekeh Eseoghene
Published: August 2024

Tropical regions face unique challenges in building sustainability due to high temperatures, humidity, and heavy rainfall. While building energy regulations are essential for promoting energy efficiency, their effectiveness in addressing tropical climate conditions needs to be studied more. This research aims to systematically investigate tropical building sustainability issues and evaluate the impacts of building energy regulations on these challenges. The study will identify gaps in current regulations by analyzing existing research and recommend strategies for developing more comprehensive frameworks that promote sustainable building practices in tropical regions. This research contributes to developing effective policies and strategies for achieving sustainable and energy-efficient built environments in tropical climates.
The Role of Sex and Gender in Transgender Bone and Other Musculoskeletal Health
Authors: Graves Leland , Lukert Barbara P.
Published: August 2024

Musculoskeletal changes occur with gender-affirming hormonal therapy (GAHT) and gender-affirming surgery (GAS) used in the care of transgender adolescents and adults. Survey results have shown that orthopaedic surgeons desire to care for transgender individuals but express concern over a knowledge deficit. This article reviews the physiology and pathophysiology that may occur with GAHT and GAS. Transgender women have lower bone mineral density (BMD) prior to GAHT than cisgender men. Limited fracture data would suggest that transgender women >50 years of age have fracture rates similar to those of cisgender women. Transgender men have normal BMD prior to GAHT and are not at an increased risk for fracture compared with cisgender women. The use of puberty-blocking medications in the care of transgender youth does result in a decline in BMD, which returns to baseline with GAHT, but the effect of delaying puberty on maximal BMD and the lifetime fracture risk are unknown. At present, dual x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) is used to measure BMD and assess fracture risk. Attention should be paid to using the appropriate reference group in the interpretation of DXA for transgender individuals. Promote musculoskeletal health by ensuring appropriate calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing activity, and a healthy lifestyle. Adherence to GAHT needs to be encouraged to avoid bone loss. Data with regard to therapy for osteoporosis in transgender patients have been lacking, but, at present, use of available therapies is expected to be effective. Information with regard to differences in other musculoskeletal health issues such as joint injuries has been lacking in transgender individuals.
The Classification of Success Performance of Entrepreneurial and Innovative Universities with Artificial Intelligence Methods
Authors: Çoban Berhan
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The speed of circulation of educational outputs in higher education has accelerated at a dizzying pace. As a result of this, industry, production, and financial structures attach more importance to collaborations with universities in order to access and benefit from the information produced at universities faster and earlier. This new approach has brought the concept of entrepreneurship to the forefront as the most important step in economic, social, social, and technological change and development. This study examines the classification of universities based on the Entrepreneurial and Innovative University Index (EIUI) score. In addition, it also investigates the distribution of the EIU index according to the status of universities (Foundation - State) and the relationship between URAP ranking. This study classifies universities using artificial intelligence methods that have been widely used in recent years. This positioning study, while clustering EIU universities in our country, aims to provide guidance for other universities to analyze their current situation and to determine future strategies in line with their competencies and goals.
Recognizing the Most Accurate Herschel-Bulkley Fluid Pressure Estimation Method for Annulus: An Update to API RP 13D, 7th Edition
Authors: Ashena Rahman
Published: August 2024

The Herschel-Bulkley (HB) model is widely regarded as highly accurate for modeling non-Newtonian fluid flow, applicable across diverse fields such as chemical, mechanical, and petroleum engineering. The American Petroleum Institute and other references recognize the HB model as the most accurate and recommend the industry use it for drilling hydraulics. Pressure estimation models are beneficial for applying the HB model in field settings, as numerical solutions may not be feasible due to the computational demands and time constraints, especially challenging for high-frequency real-time pressure loss estimation (at least 1 Hz). Past literature has presented four estimation methods for the HB fluid, consisting of Zamora and Lord (1974), Merlo et al. (1995), Gjerstad and Time (2015), and the generalized method. However, the recommended practice API RP 13D (2023), “Rheology and Hydraulics of Oilwell Drilling Fluids,” has considered the most traditional Zamora and Lord (1974) as their chosen estimation method for industry use while neglecting to identify the most accurate model. Therefore, to update API RP 13D (2023), this work addresses this shortcoming by investigating the performance of different methods in estimating pressure losses while providing user-friendly, straightforward procedures applicable for field use.

To recognize the most accurate estimation method for industry use, different methods’ pressure losses were estimated and compared with the numerical solution as well as experimental data to find the errors. The results showed that the Merlo et al. (1995) method provides the most accurate estimates, with the least average absolute percent error (APE) of maximum 4% underestimating the numerical solution, followed by Zamora and Lord’s error overestimating the numerical solution. The errors may slightly vary depending on the input parameters used, including diameters, mud properties, and circulation rate. The effect of the circulation rate on the accuracy of different methods was also investigated; except for the generalized method, the accuracy of the other methods increases with increasing the circulation rate.

This work is a very innovative practical work for finding annular pressure losses accurately without using complex numerical solutions.
Intelligent Identification and Quantitative Evaluation Method of Fluid Components from T2-T1 2D NMR Logging
Authors: Li Chenglin , Tan Maojin , Li Chaoliu , Wang Kewen , Liu Peng , Xiao Chengwen , Xiao Lizhi
Published: August 2024

T2-T1 2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) logging plays an important role in fluid identification and reservoir evaluation. When the signal/noise ratio (SNR) is low, the response of the fluid component overlaps on the NMR 2D spectrum, and the fluid characteristic map obtained in the laboratory could not be directly applied to 2D NMR logging data. In this work, we proposed a T2-T1 2D NMR fluid identification and quantitative evaluation method based on blind source separation (BSS) and hierarchical clustering. This method fixes the number of fluid components of BSS as eight and utilizes a hierarchical clustering method to further process the 2D spectra obtained from BSS, so that each spectrum contains only one fluid component response. Subsequently, the fluid types are determined according to the response characteristics, and the fluid volumes are quantitatively calculated. Based on the synthetic data of T2-T1 2D NMR logging, this method was used to calculate the volumes of the fluid components, and the accuracy of the method was verified by comparing with the model and other four methods. This method was applied to 2D NMR logging data from Well Z and Well G and verified by oil test results. The results show that the relative error between the fluid volumes calculated by the proposed method and the model is smaller than other methods. The data processing results of Well Z and Well G are consistent with those of the oil test. Both synthetic data and actual logging data show that this method can provide the accurate fluid identification and quantitative evaluation results of T2-T1 2D NMR logging data.
Validity of linear and nonlinear measures of gait variability to characterize aging gait with a single low back accelerometer
Authors: Piergiovanni Sophia , Terrier Philippe
Published: August 2024

Purpose
This study investigates the validity of the attractor complexity index (ACI), a recently developed gait analysis tool based on nonlinear dynamics. The analysis assesses ACI's sensitivity to motor-cognitive interference and its potential for characterizing age-related changes in gait patterns. Furthermore, the study compares ACI with classical gait metrics to determine its efficacy relative to established methods.
Methods
A 4x200m indoor walking test with a triaxial accelerometer attached to the lower back was used to compare gait patterns of younger (N = 42) and older adults (N = 60) during normal and metronome walking. The other linear and non-linear gait metrics were movement intensity, gait regularity, local dynamic stability (maximal Lyapunov exponents), and scaling exponent (detrended fluctuation analysis).
Results
In contrast to other gait metrics, ACI demonstrated a specific sensitivity to metronome walking, with both young and old participants exhibiting altered stride interval correlations. Furthermore, there was a significant difference between the young and old groups (standardized effect size: -0.77). Additionally, older participants exhibited slower walking speeds, a reduced movement intensity, and a lower gait regularity. Inferential statistics using linear mixed-effects models confirmed the responsiveness of ACI to metronome walking and its efficacy in differentiating between the gait patterns of older and younger adults.
Conclusion
The ACI is likely a sensitive marker for cognitive load during walking and can effectively discriminate age-related changes in gait patterns. Its ease of measurement makes it a promising tool gait analysis in unsupervised (free-living) conditions. Future research will focus on the ACI’s clinical utility for fall risk assessment.
Presumed sarcoid choroiditis: referral pathways, demographic characteristics and disease phenotypes.
Authors: Trepatchayakorn Supawat , Artiaga Jose Carlo , Bernal-Morales Carolina , Arpa Cristina , Petrushkin Harry
Published: August 2024

Purpose: To audit the current clinical process whereby patients with presumed sarcoid choroiditis are referred for systemic investigation. To describe demographic and phenotypic heterogeneity of patients clinically diagnosed with presumed sarcoid choroiditis, and to compare between those who were concordant and non-concordant to the 2019 International Workshop on Ocular Sarcoidosis (IWOS) diagnostic criteria.
Method: Retrospective audit of patients clinically diagnosed with presumed sarcoid choroiditis evidenced by the presence of hypo-fluorescent dark dots (HDDs) on indocyanine green angiography (ICGA). Cases with serologic evidence of tuberculosis were excluded. A target of six months was set between diagnosis and referral to a sarcoidosis clinic. Demographic data, intra-ocular clinical signs, and systemic investigations—as outlined by IWOS criteria—were analysed and compared between IWOS-concordant and IWOS-non-concordant groups.
Results Sixty-one cases of suspected sarcoid choroiditis based on clinical diagnosis plus HDDs on ICGA and negative serological tests for tuberculosis were included. Following referral, 34.4% of patients were systemically investigated by a sarcoidosis specialist within six months. Mean age was 46.6±17.1 years, 54.1% were male, and 44.3% Caucasian. Seventy-two percent (72%) of eyes fulfilled IWOS diagnostic criteria, while 28% did not Patients who met IWOS criteria were significantly more likely to have a systemic diagnosis of sarcoidosis versus the IWOS non-concordant group (41.2% vs 0%, p=0.010).
Conclusion Approximately one-third of patients with presumed sarcoid choroiditis were referred for systemic evaluation within 6 months. ICGA is a useful diagnostic tool in the diagnosis of sarcoid choroiditis. ICGA may help identify IWOS-non-concordant patients whose disease is confined to the eye.
Development of serum lipoprotein (a) detection using latex enhanced immunoturbidimetry
Authors: Liu Yanyan , Li Meijiao , Zhang Hao , Gao Le , Liu Jitao , Hou Yue , Xu Jiancheng
Published: August 2024

Background
Lipoprotein (a) (Lp (a)) is indeed a significant factor in cardiovascular health, as it is a product of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-like particles that bind to apolipoprotein (a). Elevated levels of Lp (a) have been linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), hastening disease progression and raising CVD mortality rates. However, the absence of standardized measurement methods for Lp (a) contributes to diagnostic uncertainties.
Method
A quantitative measurement method for serum Lp (a) was developed using fully automated latex-enhanced particle immunoturbidimetry technology represents a significant advancement in diagnostic capabilities. The key parameters such as repeatability, stability, linearity, and method comparison were evaluated to ensure the accuracy of the assay.
Result
The Lp (a) in samples was recognized by carboxylated latex particles covalently coated with anti-Lp (a) antibodies. The content of Lp (a) was quantified by measuring the changes in turbidity generated by agglutination at 600 nm. With precision CV% within the batch of 1.10% and inter-batch precision CV% of 1.79%, it demonstrates reliable performance using Randox biochemical quality control samples. The detection limit of 7 mg/L and a high correlation coefficient (R2 = 0.9946) at concentrations of 0-1500 mg/L further validate its effectiveness.
Conclusion
The quantitative determination method of serum Lp (a) based on latex-enhanced immunoturbidimetric analysis indeed provides rapid results, high accuracy, and automation, making it suitable for routine clinical testing. This method relies on the interaction between Lp (a) and latex particles, allowing for efficient measurement in serum samples.
syN-BEATS for Robust Pollutant Forecasting in Data-Limited Context
Authors: Berman Josef , Pinhasov Ben , Tshuva Moshe , Aperstein Yehudit
Published: August 2024

This research introduces syN-BEATS, a novel ensemble deep learning model tailored for effective pollutant forecasting under conditions of limited data availability. Based on the N-BEATS architecture, syN-BEATS integrates various configurations with differing numbers of stacks and blocks, effectively combining weak and strong learning approaches. Our experiments show that syN-BEATS outperforms standard models, especially when using Bayesian optimization to fine-tune ensemble weights. The model consistently achieves low relative root mean square errors, proving its capacity for precise pollutant forecasting despite data constraints. A key aspect of this study is the use of data from only one meteorological and one air quality monitoring station per region, simulating environments with restricted monitoring capabilities. By applying this approach in regions with diverse climates and air quality levels, we thoroughly assess the model's flexibility and resilience under different environmental conditions. The results highlight syN-BEATS' ability to support the development of effective health alert systems that can detect specific airborne pollutants, even in areas with limited monitoring infrastructure. This advancement is crucial for enhancing environmental monitoring and public health management in under-resourced areas.
Decoding belowground links and fertility indicators: Soil drivers, carbon components, microbes, and crop yield under long-term organic (vermicompost) and inorganic nutrient (urea) fertilizer
Authors: khodabin ghorban , Esfahan Ehsan Zandi , Mohammadi-Kashka Faezeh , Madani Ahad
Published: August 2024

Background and Aims
This 11-year study investigated the relationship between chemical drivers affecting soil microbial community structure, plant function, and yield under different fertilizer regimes (control, urea, vermicompost, and their combination) in a wheat-maize rotation system, aiming to enhance soil fertility and health.
Methods
The treatments in this study included six levels of fertilization: control (CO), standard rate (SV), double standard rate with vermicompost (DV), standard rate with urea (SU), double standard rate with urea (DU), and a combined application of SU and SV (HSU+HSV).
Results
Treatments receiving vermicompost (V) led to increases in low labile organic carbon (LOC) and recalcitrant organic carbon (ROC) compared to urea treatments (U). The proportion of high labile organic carbon (LOC-H) and medium labile organic carbon to SOC depended on carbon input through crop residues, roots, and exudates in CO, DU, and SU treatments. Replacing U with V enhanced negative gram bacteria (BaG-) performance by providing higher access to nutrients, a balanced SOC ratio, and decreased pH. Applying U increased fungal biomass and reduced positive gram bacteria biomass (BaG+), indicating fungi's higher sensitivity to N compared to C. Mycorrhizal fungal biomass and Shannon microbial diversity index decreased under DU conditions compared to CO.
Conclusion
Long-term vermicompost application improved soil quality by increasing SOC components and stocks, enhancing microbial activity, nutrient availability, and plant yield. The combined use of urea and vermicompost led to a beneficial symbiosis, regulating soil functions and plant properties, ultimately enhancing soil fertility and health in the wheat-maize rotation.
Early introduction of IL-10 weakens BCG revaccination's protection by suppressing CD4+Th1 cell responses
Authors: Lei Qing , Fu Hui , Yao Zongjie , Zhou Zijie , Wang Yueqing , Lin Xiaosong , Yuan Yin , Ouyang Qi , Xu Xinyue , Cao Jinge , Gan Mengze , Fan Xionglin
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The only authorized tuberculosis (TB) vaccine, Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG), has shown limited effectiveness in protecting adolescents and adults against active TB, even boosted with either BCG itself or heterologous vaccine candidates.
Objectives: The mechanisms underlying the suboptimal efficacy of BCG revaccination against primary M.tb infection remain unknown.
Methods: C57BL/6J mice were immunized with the BCG vaccine once or twice, with lung tissue analyzed for changes in cytokine levels. Different intervals between vaccinations and detection times were also studied for IL-10 expression in various organs. IL-10 expressing cells in lung, spleen, and lymph nodes were analyzed using FACS and intracellular cytokine staining (ICS). BCG revaccinated IL-10-/- mutant mice were compared to wild type mice for antigen-specific IgG antibody and T cell response. Protection against M.tb aerosol challenge was assessed in BCG revaccinated mice that untreated or treated with anti-IL-10R monoclonal antibody.
Results: IL-10 was found to be upregulated in the lungs of BCG revaccinated mice shortly after the booster immunization. The expression of IL-10 reached its peak in the lungs 3-6 weeks post-revaccination, and was also observed in lymph nodes and spleens as early as 2 weeks after the booster dose, regardless of the time intervals between the prime and booster vaccinations. The main sources of IL-10 in these tissues were macrophages and dendritic cells. Blocking IL-10 signaling in BCG revaccinated mice, achieved through the use of IL-10-/- mutant mice or anti-IL-10R monoclonal antibody, increased levels of antigen-specific IFN-γ+ or IL-2+ CD4+ T cells, central and effector memory CD4+ T cell responses, leading to better protection against 300 CFU of aerosol M.tb infection.
Conclusion: Our findings are crucial for formulating effective immunization strategies pertaining to the BCG vaccine, as well as developing efficacious adult TB vaccine.
Rotations and Translations of Head Posture Parameters as a Predictor of the Rehabilitation Management Outcomes in Patients with Chronic Nonspecific Neck Pain: A Multicenter Prospective Case Series
Authors: Anwar Ghydaa , Moustafa Ibrahim M. , Ahbouch Amal , Alrahoomi Abdulla , Harrison Deed E.
Published: August 2024

A multicenter, prospective consecutive case series study was conducted in 5 physiotherapy clinics in the UAE from January 2021 to March 2023 to assess rotations and translations of head posture parameters as potential predictors of conservative therapy outcomes in patients with chronic non-specific neck pain (CNSNP). Eighty-six patients (mean age 35 yrs., 65% male) with CNSNP underwent conservative therapy. All participants received a detailed examination including a computerized cervical spine posture analysis and demographic data was collected. Interventions included specific exercises, diathermy, longitudinal traction, education, a detailed exercise program, ergonomic advice, and medications. Interventions were applied 3 times per week for 8 weeks. Follow-up was 6-months after final treatment. A successful outcome was based on a minimum improvement of the following four outcomes using the patient centered outcome questionnaire (PCOQ): (1) reduction of pain by 17.5 points (0–100 NRS); (2) fatigue reduction by 7.5 points; (3) distress reduction by 5 points; and (4) interference reduction by 9.5 points. At 6-month follow-up it was found that success rates for pain, fatigue, distress, and interference were above 60% for the total participants. The logistic regression for predicting overall success in combined outcomes based on age, gender, smoking status, marital status, and sagittal head translation was: 1) Age: the odds ratio (0.69) suggests that as age increases, the likelihood of overall success decreases (p = 0.001); 2) Sex: females have higher odds of overall success compared to males (OR = 2.71, p < 0.001); 3) Smoking status and marital status: neither of these factors were statistically significant predictors of overall success; 4) Sagittal head translation: each unit increase (more anterior) in this abnormal posture reduced the odds of success by 13%, showing a strong and significant effect (OR = 0.13, p < 0.001). Overall, our findings indicate that younger age, female sex, and better posture alignment of the cervical spine all had a substantial impact on the likelihood of success of 6-month outcomes in patients suffering CNSNP.
Defining the Clinical Benefits of Adding a Neurokinin-1 Receptor Antagonist to Control Chemotherapy-Induced Nausea and Vomiting in Moderately Emetogenic Chemotherapy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Antiemesis 2023 from the Japan Society of Clinical Oncology
Authors: Hayashi Toshinobu , Yamamoto Shun , Miyata Yoshiharu , Takeda Masayuki , Abe Masakazu , Wada Makoto , Iino Keiko , Akechi Tatsuo , Imamura Chiyo K. , Okuyama Ayako , Ozawa Keiko , Kim Yong-Il , Sasaki Hidenori , Satomi Eriko , Tanaka Ryuhei , Nakajima Takako Eguchi , Nakamura Naoki , Nishimura Junichi , Noda Mayumi , Hayashi Kazumi , Higashi Takahiro , Boku Narikazu , Matsumoto Koji , Matsumoto Yoko , Okita Kenji , Yamamoto Nobuyuki , Aogi Kenjiro , Iihara Hirotoshi
Published: August 2024

Background
Chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) commonly affects patient quality of life and the overall effectiveness of chemotherapy. This study aimed to evaluate whether adding neurokinin-1 receptor antagonists (NK1RAs) to 5-hydroxytryptamine-3 receptor antagonists (5-HT3RAs) and corticosteroids provides clinically meaningful benefits in preventing CINV in patients receiving moderately emetogenic chemotherapy (MEC).
Methods
We conducted a systematic review of PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Ichushi-Web to identify clinical studies evaluating NK1RAs combined with 5-HT3RAs and dexamethasone for managing CINV in MEC. The endpoints were complete response (CR), complete control (CC), total control (TC), adverse events, and costs. The data were analyzed using a random effects model.
Results
From 142 articles identified, 15 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), involving 4,405 patients, were included in the meta-analysis. Approximately 60% of the patients received carboplatin (CBDCA)-based chemotherapy. The meta-analysis showed that triplet antiemetic prophylaxis with NK1RA was significantly more effective for achieving CR than doublet prophylaxis in each phase. Regarding CC, the triplet antiemetic prophylaxis was significantly more effective than the doublet in the overall (risk difference [RD]: 0.11, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06–0.17) and delayed (RD: 0.08, 95% CI: 0.02–0.13) phases. For TC, no significant differences were observed in any phase. Adding NK1RA did not cause adverse events.
Conclusions
Adding NK1RA to CBDCA-based chemotherapy has shown clinical benefits. However, the clinical benefits of NK1RA-containing regimens for overall MEC have not yet been established and require RCTs that exclusively evaluate MEC regimens other than CBDCA-based chemotherapy.
Single-cell profiling reveals phenotypic changes in chronic atrophic gastritis
Authors: Lin Lin , Huang Tingxuan , Li Lizhi , Lin Yang , Wang Yizhe , You Weihao , An Yawen , Duan Yujie , He Shiwei , Ye Weimin
Published: August 2024

Purpose To identify key cellular changes and molecular events that are involved in the atrophic mucosa, thus help understand the molecular mechanisms driving the occurrence of chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG).
Methods We used single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to characterize changes in the epithelial state and tissue microenvironment associated with CAG. The molecular changes were mainly identified by comparing differentially expressed genes between the two mucosa states. Gene Ontology (GO) pathway enrichment analysis was used to explore the potential functional changes in each cell subtype in atrophic mucosa. Gene set score analysis was conducted to compare the functional roles of different fibroblast subtypes and functional changes in cell subtypes between the CAG and control conditions. Metabolic analysis was conducted to compare the metabolic activity of C1Q+ macrophages under different conditions. NichNet analysis was used to analyze the regulatory relationships between CXCL11+APOE+ fibroblasts and C1Q+ macrophages, and between CXCL11+APOE+ fibroblasts and CD8+ effector T cells. Transcription Factor (TF) analysis was used to infer the transcription status of different T cell subtypes in atrophic and normal mucosa tissues.
Results We generated a single cell transcriptome atlas from 3 CAG biopsy samples and their paired adjacent normal tissues. Our analysis revealed that chief cells and parietal cells exhibited a loss of detoxification ability and that surface mucous cells displayed a reduced antimicrobial defense ability in CAG lesions. The mucous neck cells in CAG lesions upregulated genes related to cell cycle transition, which may lead to aberrant DNA replication. Additionally, the T exhaustion phenotype was infiltrated in CAG conditions. C1Q+macrophages exhibited reduced phagocytosis ability, downregulated expression of pattern recognition receptors and decreased metabolic activity. NichNet analysis revealed that a subpopulation of CXCL11+APOE+ fibroblasts regulated the inflammatory response in the pathogenesis of atrophic gastritis.
Conclusions In the occurrence of CAG, there is a certain degree of immune decline in the mucosal microenvironment, including a reduced immune response of C1Q+ macrophages, reduced cytotoxicity of T cell, as well as increased infiltration of exhausted T cells. Additionally, different epithelial subtypes aberrantly express genes that may be susceptible to external bacterial infection and undergo aberrant cell cycle progression.
Changes in nucleus pulposus cell atlas and the role of SPP1 during intervertebral disc degeneration: Single-cell sequencing analysis
Authors: wei xianzhao , Liu Chen , Jiao Kun , Li Xiaoyu , Deng Zixiang , Cheng Yajun , Wang Shanhe , Li Ming , zhou xiaoyi
Published: August 2024

Background
The nucleus pulposus (NP) plays a central role in the pathogenesis of intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD); however, its internal cellular heterogeneity and molecular mechanisms have not yet been elucidated.
Methods
ScRNA-seq was used to evaluate the structure of the NP at different degenerative stages in the same individual with IVDD. Unsupervised clustering of cells based on gene expression profiles was performed using the Seurat package and passed to Umap for cluster visualization. A rat disc degeneration model and an in vitro human NP cell degeneration model were established to validate the scRNA-Seq identification results.
Results
Six NP sub-clusters and immune cells were identified, and their distribution and functional differences between healthy and degenerative states were investigated. Immune cells were present only in degenerated NPs and may trigger NP degeneration. Cellular communication within the NP was altered by the intervention of immune cells. secreted phosphorylated protein 1 (SPP1), secreted by immune cells, plays a major role and is a key molecule in NP degeneration. The results of in vivo animal experiments and in vitro cellular experiments showed that the expression of SPP1 was increased in degenerating NPs. High expression of SPP1 promoted NP degeneration, whereas inhibition of its expression attenuated degeneration.
Conclusions
Cytoarchitectural changes in NP were revealed by scRNA-Seq. SPP1 is involved in the pathogenesis of disc degeneration and may be a new target for intervention in IVDD.
Impacts of dumpsites on heavy metal concentration in soil and vegetation in four dumpsites in Akure North, Ondo State
Authors: Aluko Aluko Oluwatosin Temidayo , Obaseki Obaseki Olubunmi Oluyemi , Ibikunle Ibikunle Oluwaseun Stephen
Published: August 2024

This research studied the physicochemical composition and concentration of heavy metals in both soil and vegetations in four different dumpsite locations in Akure North Local Government and compared the concentrations to those of the WHO and the National Environmental Standard and Regulation Enforcement Agency (NESREA). Four models were used to examine soil pollution levels and transfer coefficient was used to assess the heavy metal bioaccumulation in plant. Two soil samples (0-15cm and 15-30cm) and two plant samples were collected from each dumpsite. Control samples were taken 1km away. Metals (Zn, Fe, Cu, Cd, Pb) were analyzed using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) with Aqua regia digestion.The physicochemical properties of the four dumpsite locations, such as electrical conductivity and organic matter, were higher than the control, reflected in the acidic pH (5.50-6.47) of the dumpsites compared to the control (6.37-8.17). This contributes significantly to heavy metal pollution. Soil samples from all locations showed a sandy-silt- clay composition, leading to heavy metal leaching. Heavy metal concentrations in soil and plant samples from dumpsites exceeded those in control sites. The geoaccumulation index ranged from -0.05 to 10.55, indicating contamination levels from uncontaminated to extremely contaminated. The enrichment factor, from 0.21 to 4914.44, and the contamination factor, from 86.83 to 21718251.81, and the pollution index ranges from 2.44 to 29.33. This further confirms that heavy metal pollution is present in all the dumpsites. Iron had the highest concentration in soil and plants, likely due to erosion, but its transfer coefficient was the lowest, indicating limited plant absorption. Cadmium had the highest transfer coefficient, binding with carbonates and transporters in the soil, facilitating plant uptake. This suggests that the dumping of wastes and metals are progressively impacting soil and plant quality through heavy metal leaching.
Evaluation of Surface Characterization and Qualitative Parameters of Cottonseed Meal and Extracted Protein
Authors: Kadam Dattatreya M. , Parab Sayali S. , Kasara Akansha
Published: August 2024

The utilization of cottonseed meal and its extracted protein powder as valuable industrial products necessitates leveraging. The surface characteristics and qualitative parameters were evaluated by using FTIR, SEM, color and protein digestibility, lysine content, and microbial analysis respectively. CSPC and MW-CSPI had parallel β plated sheets and an accumulation of tiny particles due to soluble and insoluble pentosans, with changes resulting from the alkali salt protein extraction process. CSPC had superior in-vitro protein digestibility and microbiological analysis showed safe limits for bacterial and pathogenic bacterial count. Cottonseed protein, whether untreated or microwave pre-treated, can be used as an ingredient or supplement in various foods, except for lysine content as specified in Food Safety and Standards Regulations of 2011.
Green polyurethane foam coated with a copolymer containing TiO2 nanoparticles through non-solvent induced phase separation: a photocatalytic water cleaning approach
Authors: Silva Philipe Augusto Pocidonio , Nunes Eduardo Henrique Martins , Almeida Marys Lene Braga , Oréfice Rodrigo Lambert
Published: August 2024

The expansion of human beings in many parts of the world is increasing the demand for fresh water and the contamination of water by contaminants such as dye, and others requires efficient, easy-to-use, cheap and environmentally sustainable technologies to perform water purification tasks. In this work, nanostructured eco-friendly bio-based castor oil polyurethane foams that can remove heavy metal ions from contaminated water were customized to add another function associated with the photodegradation of organic molecules. To this end, nanostructured polyurethane foams (containing cellulose-halloysite nanocomposite units) were coated with poly(styrene)-b-(polyethylene-ran-butylene)-b-polystyrene (SEBS) by non-solvent induced phase separation (NIPS) process. The deposition of the coating also allowed the incorporation of titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles by applying a new strategy, in which the nanoparticles were suspended in the non-solvent prior to the NIPS process. These modulated and mixed technologies have generated polyurethane foams capable of degrading at least 10% of methylene blue dye through photocatalysis. The photocatalytic system was affected by pH where pH = 2.0 does not promote photocatalysis but the process is activated in water pH. The effect of photocatalysis generated with only 0.5% by mass of TiO2 in the foam, approximately 10 mg of TiO2, was 9.22% and 10.02% for approximately 20mg.
Utilising frequency-time analysis (FTAN) of surface waves for geotechnical and dam investigations
Authors: O’Neill Craig , Heng Wei-Xuen , Chang Ao
Published: August 2024

The shallow shear-wave velocity structure of the subsurface is a key input for dam engineering, civil construction, and earthquake hazard assessments. Many commercial solutions lack sensitivity in resolving complex shallow Vs structure. Here we develop a frequency-time analysis approach for shallow active source seismic data, and demonstrate its sensitivity to common depth ranges of geotechnical investigations. We show the approach’s effectiveness in isolating the fundamental mode in group-velocity maps of Rayleigh waves, typically acquired in one-component geophone active surveys. We present a number of examples, ranging from construction to hydrogeological investigations, demonstrating FTAN’s ability to resolve complex shallow structures and its high visual correlation with independent geotechnical information, such as logs. Sensitivity kernel calculations show that FTAN has significantly more depth penetration than equivalent active techniques like refraction, at given shot-receiver distances, raising the possibility of processing legacy survey data for greater depth resolution and Vs structure.
Proton beam therapy in a patient with secondary glioblastoma 32 years after postoperative radiotherapy for medulloblastoma: A case report and review of the literatures
Authors: Jiwei Bai , Abulimiti Muyasha , Yonglong Jin , Jie Wang , Shuyan Zhang , Chao Liu , Zishen Wang , Wei Wang , Yinuo Li , Weiwei Wang , Lu Yang , Shimizu(Xiangxing) Shosei(Qingshui)
Published: August 2024

In the past, for children's medulloblastoma tumors, the priority of cancer treatments was to control the tumor rather than the risk of side effects. With the gradual standardization of diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for children's medulloblastoma tumors, especially the application of stratified treatment guided by its molecular typing and multidisciplinary integrated treatment such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, the cure, and survival of children's medulloblastoma tumor patients have been significantly improved. At the same time, there has been an increase in the number of second primary tumors (SPT). According to the concept of multiple primary tumors defined by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), two or more primary tumors are found in the patient simultaneously or successively. The tumor diagnosed first is known as the primary tumor, and the tumor diagnosed later is known as the SPT. The most frequent site of SPT is the CNS, followed by endocrine and hematological systems. However, there is less data on second primary glioblastoma and treatment modality recommendations after medulloblastoma. The purpose of this article is to share a case of a patient with medulloblastoma who developed a second primary glioblastoma 32 years after receiving craniospinal irradiation as a child. Additionally, it aims to provide insights into the treatment experience and present a review of relevant literature.
Optimization analysis of cloud system with preemption and adaptive asynchronous semi-sleep mechanisms
Authors: Xu Xiuli , Yu Huiru , Wang Rui , Zhang Lili
Published: August 2024

In order to reduce the system energy consumption and improve the system profit while guaranteeing the user service quality in cloud environment, also considering the external interference factors and the problems of frequent state transitions and service inefficiency caused by synchronized vacations of servers, this paper proposed a virtual machine scheduling strategy and established an M/M/c queuing model with preemptive priority, negative customer and partial servers asynchronous working vacation. The steady state probability distribution of the system was obtained by using the theory of quasi birth and death process, and the stationary performance indexes of the system, such as average queue length and system default rate, were obtained. The numerical simulation was presented to demonstrate the effects of the parameters on the steady-state performance of the system under the condition of different asynchronous vacation threshold. The individual profit and the system benefit functions were established, respectively, the optimal parameter values of the maximum benefit were obtained. Finally, taking the service rate of two kinds of customers as the decision variable and minimizing the average sojourn time of two kinds of customers as the objective function, a bi-objective optimization model is developed and the NSGA-II algorithm is applied to find the optimal solution set of Pareto. Under the given arrival rate, the optimal service rate is sought to achieve optimization design and management of the system.