bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quality of Life and Health Determinants of Informal Caregivers Aged 65 Years and Over
Authors: Buckinx Fanny , Adam Stéphane , Aubertin-Leheudre Mylène , De Saint Hubert Marie , Mouton Alexandre , Potier Florence , Reginster Jean-Yves , Bruyère Olivier
Published: October 2023

Background: Informal caregivers' own quality of life, health status, and determinants are poorly understood despite their concerns for the health of the individuals they assist.
Objectives: To compare the quality of life and the health determinants of older informal caregivers with those of older adults without caregiving responsibilities.
Methods: An online survey was designed to investigate the quality of life and the health determinants of people aged 65 years and over, with a focus on informal caregivers. In addition to socio-demographic data, the number of informal caregiver and the Zarit scale of caregiver burden were collected. Quality of life (SF-12) and health determinants (access to technology and level of physical activity (IPAQ)) were assessed and compared between informal caregivers and the others.
Results: A total of 111 participants (70 ± 3.83 years, 71.2% of women). The majority of respondents (91.8%) were Belgian. One third of the respondents identified themselves as informal caregiver and declared to have severe burden (61.9±15.2/88). Socio-demographic characteristics and access to technology were similar between informal caregivers and non-caregivers (p>0.05). However, informal caregivers have a lower SF-12 score in the mental score domain (44.3±10.2 vs; 50.7±7.0; p=0.004) and a lower level of physical activity (434±312 METS/min/week vs.1126±815 METS/min/week; p=0.01) than their peers.
Conclusions: Informal caregivers reported lower quality of life and lower level of physical activity than their peers. Given the recognized importance of physical activity for overall health, this survey highlights the need to promote physical activity among older informal caregivers.
A numerical Assessment of Mitigation Strategies to Reduce Local Oxygen and Proton Transport Resistances in Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells
Authors: García-Salaberri Pablo A.
Published: October 2023

The optimized design of catalyst layer (CL) plays a vital role to improve the performance of polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). The need to improve transport and catalyst activity is especially important at low Pt loading, where local oxygen and ionic transport resistances decrease the performance due to an inevitable reduction of active catalyst sites. In this work, local oxygen and ionic transport are analyzed using direct numerical simulation on virtually reconstructed microstructures. Four morphologies are examined: (i) heterogeneous, (ii) uniform, (iii) uniform vertically-aligned, and (iv) meso-porous ionomer distributions. The results show that the local oxygen transport resistance can be significantly reduced, while maintaining good ionic conductivity, through the design of high porosity CLs (ε≃0.6−0.7) with low agglomerated ionomer morphologies. Ionomer coalescence into thick films can be effectively mitigated by increasing the uniformity of thin films and reducing the tortuosity of ionomer distribution (e.g., good ionomer interconnection in supports with a vertical arrangement). The local oxygen resistance can be further decreased by the use of blended ionomers with enhanced oxygen permeability and meso-porous ionomers with oxygen transport routes in both water and ionomer. In summary, achieving high performance at low Pt loading in next-generation CLs must be accomplished through a combination of high porosity, uniform and low tortuosity ionomer distribution, and oxygen transport through activated water.
A Fitted Numerical Scheme with Algorithm for Singularly Perturbed Parabolic Partial Differential Equations with Large Negative Shift
Authors: Ejere Ababi H. , Duressa Gemechis File
Published: October 2023

This research work deals with the formulation of numerical scheme with algorithm to compute singularly perturbed partial differential equations(SP-PDEs) involving a significant negative shift. The problem involves small parameter which causes a rapidly changing boundary layers in the vicinity of a body, and the negative shift term causes interior layer. Such appearance of an abruptly varying layers causes difficulties to find the exact solution and it is not adequate to employ classical numerical methods. The technique presented in this research work simplifies these challenges and yields accurate numerical solution.The stability and convergence analyses of the methods are examined and proven. To test the developed technique, numerical experiments are carried out and confirmed with theoretical analysis.
The Evolution of Robin Sequence Treatment based on the Biomimetic Interdisciplinary Approach: A Historical Review
Authors: Čverha Martin , Varga Ivan , Trenčanská Tereza , Šufliarsky Barbora , Thurzo Andrej
Published: October 2023

Robin sequence is a congenital anomaly characterized by a triad of features that include micrognathia, glossoptosis, and airway obstruction. This comprehensive historical review maps the evolution of approaches and appliances for its treatment from the past until current modern possibilities of interdisciplinary combination of modern engineering, medicine, materials, and computer science combined approach with emphasis to design appliances inspired by nature - individual human anatomy. Current biomimetic designs are clinically applied resulting in appliances that are more efficient, comfortable, sustainable, and safer than legacy traditional designs. Review maps the treatment modalities that have been used for patients with Robin sequence over the years. Early management of Robin sequence focused primarily on airway maintenance and feeding support, while current management strategies involve both nonsurgical and surgical interventions and biomimetic biocompatible personalized appliances. The goal of this paper was to provide a review of the evolution of management strategies for patients with Robin sequence that led to the current interdisciplinary biomimetic approaches impacting the future of Robin Sequence treatment with biomimetics at the forefront.
Hydrogen: An Integral Player in the Future of Sustainable Transportation. A survey of Fuel Cell Vehicle Technologies, Adoption Patterns, and Challenges
Authors: Soleimani Alireza , Hosseini Dolatabadi Sayed Hamid , Heidari Mehrdad , Khorrami Behrouz Mehdizadeh , Luo Yang
Published: October 2023

The increasing global demand for energy and the pressing challenge of environmental pollution necessitates a paradigm shift towards sustainable energy sources. Hydrogen, a viable renewable energy carrier, has the potential to substantially alleviate these concerns. This review offers a comprehensive exploration of the technologies imperative to the production and operation of fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), ranging from various fuel cell types, hydrogen storage methods, fueling station logistics, batteries in hydrogen vehicles, and the emerging influence of artificial intelligence and quantum computing. An analytical overview of global adoption patterns reveals significant geographical disparities, with the United States and South Korea at the forefront of FCV integration, primarily in the form of passenger cars, followed by buses and trucks. Asia emerges as the region with the highest proportion of FCVs. This paper also delves into the diverse challenges facing FCV implementation, shedding light on the essential role of continued investment in the evolution of sustainable transportation systems. Furthermore, it provides insights into the varying contributions of different companies in the field, demonstrating the collective effort required to advance this promising technology. The comprehensive exploration provided in this review aids in understanding the opportunities, challenges, and potential of hydrogen as an integral player in the future of sustainable transportation. The increasing need for energy carriers and the rise of environmental pollution have driven the exploration of renewable energy sources, with hydrogen being a promising option.
Pyrolysis of Tyres Waste in Fixed Bed Reactor
Authors: Papuga Saša , Djurdjevic Milica , Tomović Goran , Vecchio Ciprioti Stefano
Published: October 2023

This paper presents the results of investigations on the pyrolysis of tyres waste in a laboratory fixed bed batch reactor. The results regarding the influence of either the reaction temperature (425, 450, 475, and 500 °C) and the flow of the inert gas (0, 100, 300, and 500 mL/min) on products yield (referred to pyrolysis of waste tyres) are also considered and discussed. On the basis of the above mentioned findings, the most appropriate experimental conditions were selected to contribute to a higher yield of pyrolysis oil. The sample of pyrolysis oil obtained from the experiments carried out in the selected optimal conditions (reaction time 120 min, temperature 450 °C and the inert gas flow of 100 mL/min) was subjected to a calorimetric and infrared spectroscopy analysis. The results of IR spectroscopy analysis on this oil sample showed the following content in percentages (by mass): 32.59 % of aromatics, 51.06 % of paraffins and 16.35 % of naphthenes. The pyrolysis oil so obtained has a high calorific value (42 MJ/kg) and a low sulfur content (0.41 % by mass), which makes it an excellent raw material for energy production. The solid product, i.e. pyrolysis char or carbon black, has the potential to be used as an adsorbent or catalyst support after an activation process, which changes its irregular pore structure to a more voluminous one, making the overall structure more crystalline and symmetrical. Pyrolysis coal has a fairly high calorific value of 31 MJ/kg, when compared to typical solid fuels, so it can be used in energy production or as a feedstock for the gasification process.
Economic Analysis of a Model For Forecasting Public Expenditures And Revenues
Authors: Milojevic Ivan , Krstić Miloš , Pantic Nemanja , Mihajlovic Milan
Published: October 2023

Modern countries generally deal with significant budget deficits and public debt. These countries need to rationalize their expenditures and increase revenue without major interference to economic flows. The aim of this paper is to create a model for forecasting public revenue and expenditure based on data from previous years. In the paper we formulated two hypotheses related to the validity of the set models. After detailed analysis, both hypotheses were accepted. The analysis includes all EU Member States and public revenue and expenditure data for the last decade. The significance of the analysis is reflected on the practical foundation of the pre-set theoretical views, which will have their basis in statistically significant results. By analyzing the model, we formulated the regression formulas of revenues and expenditures, which can be efficiently used in predicting these variables.
Relationship between Acceleration in a Sit-to-Stand Movement and Physical Function in Older Adults
Authors: Tateoka Korin , Tsuji Taishi , Shoji Takuro , Tokunaga Satoshi , Okura Tomohiro
Published: October 2023

Acceleration parameters in sit-to-stand (STS) movements are useful for measuring lower-limb function in older adults. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between acceleration in STS movements and physical function and the test-retest reliability of acceleration parameters in older adults. We performed cross-sectional analyses on 244 older adults including 107 men (mean age:77.4±4.7) and 137 women (mean age: 75.6±5.3). Four acceleration parameters were measured in STS movements: maximum acceleration (MA), maximum velocity (MV), maximum power (MP), and stand-up time (ST). Good intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC>0.70) were observed for all parameters. For the acceleration parameters, MA, MV, and MP were relatively strongly associated with the 5-time STS test (men: r=-0.36~-0.47; women: r=-0.37~-0.45) and the Timed up and Go test (men: r=-0.39~0.47, women: r=-0.43~-0.51): MP was also strongly associated with grip strength (men: r=0.48, women: r=0.43). All acceleration parameters were poorer in participants reporting mobility limitations than in those reporting no mobility limitations. These findings support the usefulness of sensor-based STS measurement. The system is expected to be useful in various settings where care prevention is addressed.
Identification of a Clade-Specific HLA-C*03:02-Restricted Epitope GY9 Derived from the HIV-1 p17 Matrix Protein
Authors: Kyobe Samuel , Mwesigwa Savannah , Nkurunungi Gyaviira , Retshabile Gaone , Egesa Moses , Kabali Joel , Kisitu Grace P , Katagirya Eric , Amujal Marion , Wayengera Misaki , Katabazi Fred , Kigozi Edgar , Yiga Fahim , Mlotshwa Busisiwe C , Williams Lesedi , Sendagire Hakim , Mpoloka Sununguko Wata , Lutaakome Joloba Moses L , Kiragga Dithan , Mardon Graeme , Kekitiinwa Adeodata , Matshaba Mogomotsi , Hanchard Neil A , Kyosiimire Jacqueline L , Robinson David
Published: October 2023

Efforts towards an effective HIV-1 vaccine have remained mainly unsuccessful. There is increasing evidence for a potential role of HLA-C-restricted CD8+ T cell responses in HIV-1 control, including our recent report of HLA-C*03:02 among African children. However, there are no documented optimal HIV-1 CD8+ T cell epitopes restricted by HLA-C*03:02; additionally, the structural influence of HLA-C*03:02 on epitope binding is undetermined. Immunoinformatics approaches provide a fast and inexpensive method to discover HLA-restricted epitopes. Here, we employed immunopeptidomics to identify HLA-C*03:02-restricted CD8+ T cell epitopes. We identified a clade-specific Gag-derived GY9 (GTEELRSLY) HIV-1 p17 matrix epitope exclusively restricted to HLA-C*03:02. Residues E62, T142, and E151 in the HLA-C*03:02 binding groove and positions p3, p6, and p9 on the GY9 epitope are crucial in shaping and stabilizing the epitope binding. Our findings support the growing evidence of the contribution of HLA-C molecules to HIV-1 control and provide a prospect for vaccine strategies.
New Solution to 3D Projection in Human-like Binocular Vision
Authors: Xie Ming , Fang Yuhui , Lai Tingfeng
Published: October 2023

A human eye has about 120 million rod cells and 6 million cone cells. This huge number of light sensing cells inside a human eye will continuously produce a huge quantity of visual signals which flow into a human brain for daily processing. However, the real-time processing of these visual signals does not cause any fatigue to a human brain. This fact tells us the truth which is to say that human-like vision processes do not rely on complicated formulas to compute depth, displacement, and colors, etc. On the other hand, a human eye is like a PTZ camera. Here, PTZ stands for pan, tilt and zoom. We all know that in computer vision, each set of PTZ parameters (i.e., coefficients of pan, tilt and zoom) requires a dedicated calibration to determine a camera’s projection matrix. Since there is an infinite number of PTZ parameters which could be produced by a human eye, it is unlikely that a human brain stores an infinite number of calibration matrices for each human eye. Therefore, it is an interesting question for us to answer, which is to say whether simpler formulas of computing depth and displacement exist or not. Moreover, these formulas must be calibration friendly (i.e., easy process on the fly or on the go). In this paper, we disclose an important discovery of a new solution to 3D projection in a human-like binocular vision system. The purpose of doing 3D projection in binocular vision is to undertake forward and inverse transformations (or mappings) between coordinates in 2D digital images and coordinates in a 3D analogue scene. The formulas underlying the new solution are accurate, easily computable, easily tunable (i.e., to be calibrated on the fly or on the go) and could be easily implemented by a neural system (i.e., a network of neurons). Experimental results have validated the discovered formulas.
Design and Analysis of Optomechanical Micro Gyroscope for Angular-Vibration Detection
Authors: N. A. Hassan Jamal , Huang Wenyi , Yan Xing , Zhang Senyu , Chen Dingwei , Wen Guangjun , Huang Yongjun
Published: October 2023

Micro-gyroscopes based on the Coriolis principle are widely employed in inertial navigation, motion control, and vibration analysis applications. This paper presents our main contributions which include a novel dual-frame optomechanical gyroscope, a unique photonic crystal cavity design, and advanced numerical simulation and optimization methods. The proposed design utilizes an optical cavity formed between dual oscillating frames, whereby input rotation induces a measurable phase shift via optomechanical coupling. Actuation of the frames is achieved electrostatically via an interdigitated comb-drive design. Through theoretical modeling based on cavity optomechanics and finite element simulation, the operating principle and performance parameters are evaluated in detail. Results indicate an expected angular rate sensitivity of 22.8 mV/°/s and angle random walk of 7.1×10-5 °/h1/2, representing superior precision than to existing micro-electromechanical systems gyroscopes of comparable scale. Detailed analysis of the optomechanical transduction mechanism suggests this dual-frame approach could enable angular vibration detection with resolution exceeding state-of-the-art solutions.
Weight-Bearing CT with Maximum Ankle Dorsiflexion to Identify Impingement and Tibial Plafond Stress Fracture
Authors: Brown Parker J. , Wyse Aaron , Patel Karan , Long Jeremiah
Published: October 2023

Case:

A 25-year-old male pole vaulter presented with several months of right ankle pain. Radiographs showed an anterior tibial osteophyte with a small intra-articular body suggesting impingement. Weight-bearing computed tomography (CT) revealed an associated tibial plafond stress fracture. Subsequent arthroscopy with osteophyte resection and loose body removal significantly improved symptoms, and he gradually resumed training.

Conclusion:

Stress fractures should always be considered in athletes with ankle pain. A unique aspect of this case was the use of weight-bearing CT in diagnosis and surgical planning. To our knowledge, this is the first described case in which weight-bearing CT was used in this fashion.
Intersectionality in transnational English teaching: Exploring the dynamics of privilege and disadvantage in Korean ELT
Authors: Kudaibergenov Meerbek
Published: October 2023

This article explores the niche occupied by transnational English teachers within the context of Korean ELT. Employing intersectionality theory as an analytic framework, the study examines the experiences of Leo (pseudonym), a German national who taught English in Korea circumventing legal restrictions against non-native English-speaking teachers. Through an analysis of Leo's narrative, this research elucidates the complex dynamics of privilege and disadvantage prevalent in the Korean ELT industry. The findings underscore the significance of nationality, race, and marital status in securing a teaching position, revealing a persistent preference for Caucasian teachers and the perpetuation of White supremacy in ELT. Leo's experiences shed light on broader issues of power imbalances, exploitation, and identity tensions that transnational teachers encounter. These findings contribute to a nuanced understanding of the niche occupied by transnational English teachers and provide insights for the development of inclusive and equitable policies and practices in foreign language education.
Search for high-creep-strength welding conditions considering HAZ shape factors
Authors: IZUNO Hitoshi , Demura Masahiko , Yamazaki Masayoshi , Minamoto Satoshi , Sakurai Junya , Nagata Kenji , Mototake Yoh-ichi , Abe Daisuke , Torigata Keisuke
Published: October 2023

The creep rupture life of ferritic heat-resistant steel weld joints is limited by Type IV cracking that occurs in the heat-affected zone (HAZ), whose shape affects creep damage accumulation. In this study, we address the inverse problem of extending the creep rupture life of weld joints by controlling HAZ shape via welding conditions. As reported separately, we have developed a workflow that predicts weld joint creep rupture life from the predicted HAZ shape from welding conditions, and have implemented it in the material design system. Using this workflow, we presented a tandem Bayesian model for predicting the creep rupture life from welding conditions via the geometric features of HAZ shapes (HAZ shape factors), which are considered to determine the creep rupture life. The prediction model of a HAZ shape factor from welding conditions was formed by Gaussian process regression. The prediction model of the creep rupture life was formed by Bayesian linear regression. These models were probabilistically connected by Bayesian statistical mathematics. An algorithm to increase the creep rupture life was developed to search for welding conditions. This method was applied to a 2 1/4Cr–1Mo heat-resistant steel weld joint simulated with a plate I-bevel three-layer gas tungsten arc welding. The number of welding conditions combination reaches 78 = 5764801. Start from 49 initial HAZ shape factors and 22 creep rupture life data, we performed forward calculations of 20 rupture lives to find welding conditions that can improve the creep rupture life by 12% over the initial data.
Investigation on the characteristics of a high-frequency two-dimensional rotary valve generating fluid pulse width modulation wave
Authors: Ren Yan , Xu Chengdu , Tang Hesheng , Ruan Jian
Published: October 2023

Inspired by the working principle that there is no throttling loss (theoretically) in the fully open and fully closed states of high-speed on-off valves, a high-frequency two-dimensional rotary valve is proposed to generate fluid pulse width modulation waves to control and distribute the flow rate of the hydraulic system in an energy-saving manner. The mechanism has been designed, so the aim of this paper is to develop detailed research on the characteristics of the high-frequency two-dimensional rotary valve as a new hydraulic component. The mathematical model of the rotary valve is established and influences of key parameters on its characteristics are analyzed. Then the static and dynamic characteristics of the rotary valve are simulated including valve coefficients, leakage, dynamic response and efficiency. Finally, a prototype of the two-dimensional rotary valve is designed and the testing system are built, and its pressure loss characteristics and energy efficiency characteristics are tested experimentally. The experiment results show that the valve is able to reduce throttling losses and improve the overall energy efficiency in the hydraulic system compared with the traditional throttling control. As a new variable mechanism, it can be combined with a quantitative pump to provide a way to form variable, load sensitive, or bidirectional variable pump systems.
Integrated Network Pharmacology Analysis and Experimental Validation to Investigate the Mechanism of Flavan-3-ols and Aromatic resin in Depression
Authors: Ahmad Ansari Vikhar Danish , Khan Subur W , Ali Syed Ayaz , Yasar Qazi
Published: October 2023

Pharmacological mechanism of the major bioactive flavan-3-ols and aromatic resin intended for management of depression was investigated using network pharmacology, molecular docking, and in vivo studies. Using network pharmacology, the targets for antidepressant activity of two flavan-3-ol components and four aromatic resin components was obtained. Protein-protein interaction and KEGG analysis were used to enrich and investigate key pathways. Molecular docking was carried out to evaluate the targets. Force swim test and Tail suspension test were used to study antidepressant effect. Compound-Target network analysis revealed that many targets were hit by components. The number of nodes are 332 and number of edges are 491. PPI state that our network has significant interaction with (targets) that are involved in depression. The KEGG analysis showed major pathways of flavan-3-ols and aromatic resin in managing depression include controlling the calcium signaling pathway, dopaminergic synapse, glutamatergic pathway, long-term depression, and neurodegenerative pathways. Molecular docking study of EGCG showed the most active compound showing highest affinity with − 7.3 kcal/mol towards serotonin 1A (5-HT1A), -7.4 kcal/mol towards D2, -8.9 kcal/mol for MOA-A. Flavan-3-ols and aromatic resins investigation found to have an antidepressant effect. Flavan-3-ols, and aromatic resin combination significantly (p < 0.05) increase the mobility time in force swim test and tail suspension test and significantly (p < 0.05) decrease the immobility time and time freezing. The network analysis and animal study demonstrated that Flavan-3-ols and aromatic resin had antidepressant characteristics, indicating the necessity for more research to produce a novel antidepressant medication.
Comparison of the biomechanical effects of the post-core crown, endocrown and inlay crown after deep margin elevation and its clinical significance
Authors: Wu Feng , su xiao min , Shi Yue , Bai Juan , Feng Jing , Sun Xilin , wang xuanqi , wen jiayu , kang jie
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: The purpose of this in vitro study was to compare and evaluate the stress distribution of maxillary first premolar residual crowns restored with post-core crowns, endocrowns and inlay crowns after deep margin elevation, to explore the optimal restoration for residual crowns using finite element analysis.
(2) Methods: A healthy complete right maxillary first premolar from a male adult was scanned by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT). The finite element model of the tooth was established by reverse engineering software such as Mimics, Geomagic and Hypermesh. On this basis, the residual crown model after deep margin elevation was made, and the experimental group models were divided into three groups, those restored with post core crowns, endocrowns and inlay crowns. Vertical and oblique static loads were applied to the experimental models to simulate the force on the tooth during mastication (the loading position was located in the central fossa of the occipital surface, and the load was 100N) using Abaqus software.
(3) Results: The peak value and distribution of von Mises stress in each part of the experimental model were observed. After deep margin elevation, the peak dentin von Mises stresses were lower than the tensile strength of normal dentin in the post-core crown, endocrown, and inlay crown groups; the lowest stress results were found in the post-core crown group for the dentin, restoration, enamel, and deep margin elevation (DME) layers under vertical and oblique loading. In terms of stress distribution clouds, the peak stresses in the dentin tissue were located in the apical 1/3 of the root after post -core crown restorations for both loads, while stress concentrations were evident in the cervical and root areas after endocrown and inlay crown restorations; regardless of the load and restoration method, the corresponding stress concentration areas appeared at the junction of the DME and dentin tissue at the loading site of the restorations;
(4) Conclusions: Post-core crowns, endocrowns and inlay crowns can be used to restore residual crowns after deep margin elevation, and post-core crowns can better protect the residual tooth tissue.
Morphology-independent general-purpose optical surface tractor beam
Authors: Wang Neng , Ng Jack , Wang Guoping
Published: October 2023

Optical tractor beams capable of pulling particles backward have garnered significant and increasing interest. Generally, it is easier to push than to pull. Traditional optical tractor beams are limited to free space beams with fairly small forward wavevectors, enabling them to pull selected particles. In this study, we present a comprehensive theory for the optical force exerted by a surface wave (SW) through meticulous analytical and numerical calculations, uncovering the relationship between the canonical momentum and optical forces. Moreover, based on the theory, we demonstrate a general-purpose optical surface tractor beam (OSTB) that can pull virtually any passive particle, regardless of its size, composition, and geometry. The OSTB utilizes a SW with negative canonical momentum characterized by a single well-defined negative Bloch k. Unlike previous cases, it relies on a novel mechanism where the negative incident force always surpasses the recoil force. We demonstrate explicitly that the same OSTB, when excited on the surface of a double-negative-index metamaterial, can pull particles with varying morphologies.
Castleman's disease involving paranasal sinus and bilateral orbits: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Syed Huda , Bakshi Nasir , Akhtar Saad
Published: October 2023

Background Castleman's disease (CD) is a rare non-malignant lymphoproliferative disorder affecting lymph nodes of any region and rarely involving extranodal locations. We report the first case of paranasal sinus involvement in Castleman’s disease (CD), presenting along with bilateral orbital involvement. Additionally, we report the use of Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography scan (PET/CT scan) in the initial and subsequent assessment of orbital CD and the use of chemotherapy and single-agent rituximab for its treatment.Case presentation: We report a 32-year-old female with a history of chronic progressive left periorbital swelling for seven years. Initial evaluation and subsequent computed tomography (CT) scans showed bilateral orbital masses with left optic nerve encasement and ethmoidal and frontal sinus involvement. Bilateral orbital mass biopsies showed CD of mixed cell type. FDG-PET/CT scan showed high uptake in the affected lesions and CT scan also confirmed multicentric involvement. She received rituximab + cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisone chemotherapy with a complete metabolic response (mCR). After initial mCR, she relapsed twice, three years apart but went into mCR after single-agent rituximab alone.Discussion A review of the literature of previously reported cases showed no cases of paranasal sinus involvement in CD. Only 24 cases of orbital CD were identified, 20 of which reported confirmed histological findings of CD from the orbital lesion. Ages ranged from 17–76 years, with nearly equal gender distribution. Hyaline vascular type was the most histology and eyelid ptosis and exophthalmos were the most common clinical presentations. Almost half of the reported cases were localized CD and were managed by surgical resection.Conclusion To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of paranasal sinus involvement and simultaneous bilateral orbital CD. Additionally, FDG-PET/CT has shown usefulness in assessing the patient’s disease status and response assessment.
Empathetic communication of accessibility barriers on the dynamic web to understand the accessible user experience (AUX)
Authors: Afra Pascual Almenara , Toni Granollers Saltiveri
Published: October 2023

A prototype is presented with accessible and non-accessible web elements, formalized in a dynamic web context (VUE Framework). The result is a system that empathetically informs about the accessibility barriers that impact users with disabilities. The aim of the system is to display messages through the perspective of people with disabilities so that prosumer users – those who produce and consume web content – understand the need to incorporate accessibility features in their web content. It is important to consider that making a website accessible is not only about complying with the WCAG guidelines, but also about thinking about what aspects should be considered so that people with disabilities have an accessible user experience on the web (AUX).
Biomolecule Identification Using Superlattice AlGaN/GaN High-K MOSHEMT: A Cutting-Edge Biosensing Technique
Authors: Saha Tulip Kumar , Mukherjee Moumita , Dhar Rudra Sankar
Published: October 2023

This paper presents biomolecule identification process using a novel biosensing technique with high-K metal-oxide-semiconductor high electron mobility transistor (MOSHEMT). The authors have simulated a MOSHEMT device with high-K dielectric material to improve the sensitivity of biosensors. High-K dielectric material is utilized to examine the electrical efficacy of MOSHEMT-based biosensors. When high-K materials are used, Two-Dimensional Electron Gas (2DEG) benefits from carrier confinement and leakage current reduction. Therefore, the on-current of the device has been increased. For numerical modeling, TCAD Silvaco Atlas is used. For label-free identification of biomolecules, simulator is used to investigate and compare various performance parameters with SiO2 MOSHEMT. Experimental evidence verifies the accuracy of the model. According to the authors' knowledge, this is the first investigation on high-K dielectric AlGaN/GaN MOSHEMT biosensors for efficient label-free biomolecule detection. AlGaN/GaN MOSHEMTs, which use a high-K material, are found to be promising for use in biosensors.
CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of NYC1 gene for the development of stay-green variety in Zoysia matrella (L.) Merrill
Authors: Ng Hwan May , Takahiro Gondo , Tanaka Hidenori , Akashi Ryo
Published: October 2023

Zoysia matrella is a widely used C4 warm-season turfgrass for landscaping, golf courses, and sports fields. Here, we used the CRISPR/Cas9 system to targetthe Non-Yellow Coloring1 (ZmNYC1) gene in the highly heterozygous allotetraploid Z. matrella 'Wakaba', aiming to generate a novel stay-green variety. Of 441 Agrobacterium-infected calli, 22 (5.0%) were transformed, and 14 of these (63.6%) showed targeted mutations through cleaved amplified polymorphic sequences analysis. Sequencing analysis revealed mutations mostly consisting of 1 or 2 bp indels, occurring 2 to 4 bp upstream of the PAM sequence. Regenerated plants exhibited five ZmNYC1 target locus genotypes, including homozygous mutants with a complete knockout of all four alleles in the T0 generation. Under dark treatment, ZmNYC1-mutated plants displayed suppressed chlorophyll b (Chl b) degradation, leading to higher chlorophyll content and Chl b, with a lower chlorophyll a/chlorophyll b ratio compared to the wild type (WT). Additionally, during winter simulation, mutant with a complete knockout retained greenness longer than the WT. This is the first successful use of CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing in zoysiagrass. The knockout mutants of the ZmNYC1 gene would serve as valuable breeding material for developing improved zoysiagrass varieties that can maintain their green color for longer periods, even during winter dormancy.
Incorporating longitudinal history of risk factors into atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk prediction using deep learning
Authors: Yu Jingzhi , Yang Xiaoyun , Deng Yu , Krefman Amy E. , Pool Lindsay R. , Zhao Lihui , Mi Xinlei , Ning Hongyan , Wilkins John , Lloyd-Jones Donald M. , Petito Lucia C. , Allen Norrina B.
Published: October 2023

Background
It is increasingly clear that longitudinal risk factor levels and trajectories are related to risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) above and beyond single measures. Currently used in clinical care, the Pooled Cohort Equations (PCE) are based on regression methods that predict ASCVD risk based on cross-sectional risk factor levels. Deep learning (DL) models have been developed to incorporate longitudinal data for risk prediction but its benefit for ASCVD risk prediction relative to the traditional Pooled Cohort Equations (PCE) remain unknown.
Objective
To develop a ASCVD risk prediction model that incorporates longitudinal risk factors using deep learning.
Methods
Our study included 15,565 participants from four cardiovascular disease cohorts free of baseline ASCVD who were followed for adjudicated ASCVD. Ten-year ASCVD risk was calculated in the training set using our benchmark, the PCE, and a longitudinal DL model, Dynamic-DeepHit. Predictors included those incorporated in the PCE: sex, race, age, total cholesterol, high density lipid cholesterol, systolic and diastolic blood pressure, diabetes, hypertension treatment and smoking. The discrimination and calibration performance of the two models were evaluated in an overall hold-out testing dataset.
Results
Of the 15,565 participants in our dataset, 2,170 (13.9%) developed ASCVD. The performance of the longitudinal DL model that incorporated 8 years of longitudinal risk factor data improved upon that of the PCE [AUROC: 0.815 (CI: 0.782-0.844) vs 0.792 (CI: 0.760-0.825)] and the net reclassification index was 0.385. The brier score for the DL model was 0.0514 compared with 0.0542 in the PCE.
Conclusion
Incorporating longitudinal risk factors in ASCVD risk prediction using DL can improve model discrimination and calibration.
Dysfunctional dorsal raphe dopaminergic neurons and locus coeruleus noradrenergic
neurons cause anxiety and depression in a Parkinson’s disease mouse model
Authors: Moratalla Rosario , Sanz-Magro Adrian , Granado Noelia , García-Verdugo Mario , Salas Carlos , Alberquilla Samuel , Vegas-Suárez Sergio , Deisseroth Karl , Spillantini Maria Grazia , Jercog Pablo , Tonini Raffaella
Published: October 2023

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder whose symptoms appear in a longitudinal temporal pattern along the neuropathological burden. Before motor impairment, most patients suffer anxiety/depression, the most common and disabling emotional comorbidities. The anatomical and functional bases of these comorbidities are not well established, though some studies find that the dorsal raphe (DRN) and locus coeruleus (LC) nuclei are affected by Lewy pathology at early stages of the disease when affective symptoms appear. To establish the involvement of the DRN and LC in anxiety/depression, we use a progressive mouse model that accumulates pathological human alpha-synuclein under the TH promoter in dopaminergic and noradrenergic neurons. Molecular, neurophysiological, and behavioral investigations show that such accumulation in DRN dopaminergic neurons and LC noradrenergic neurons progressively alters neuronal integrity and catecholamine signaling in the target areas, the bed nucleus of stria terminalis (BNST) and central amygdala (CeA). The onset of these neuronal and circuit dysfunctions is directly linked to the appearance of anxiety and depression-like behaviors in this model that recapitulate the emotional symptoms present at the early stages of Parkinson’s disease.
The association between dietary intake of branched-chain amino acids and odds and severity of rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Soleimani-Damaneh¹ Mohadeseh , Aryaeian Naheed , Khajoenia Shole , Azadbakht Leila , Hosseini-Baharanchi Fatemeh Sadat
Published: October 2023

This study examined the relationship between dietary branched‑chain amino acids (BCAAs) and the risk of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and disease severity. This case-control study was conducted on RA patients and age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Dietary intake of BCAAs was assessed using a food frequency questionnaire, and the amounts of valine, leucine, and isoleucine consumed were summed to calculate total BCAA intake. We assessed the disease severity using the disease activity score 28 (DAS-28), ESR, VAS, morning stiffness, and tender and swollen joints. 95 RA patients and 190 healthy participants participated in the study. After multivariate adjustment, the odds of RA were 2.57 times higher for participants in the highest tertile of BCAAs intake than for those in the lowest tertile (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.14–5.75; P for trend = 0.02); in addition, the highest compared to the lowest tertile of valine was associated with increased risk of RA (OR: 2.31; 95% CI: 1.06–5.02; P for trend = 0.04). However, dietary BCAA intake was not significantly associated with disease severity in either crude or multivariate models. Higher dietary intakes of BCAAs, particularly valine, may contribute to the development of RA.
Determination of uranium concentration in blood samples of women with breast cancer in Babylon Province of Iraq using CR-39 nuclear track detector
Authors: Essa Haider O. , Al-Attiyah Khalid H. H. , Al-Hamzawi Anees A.
Published: October 2023

Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Iraq, accounting for approximately 30% of all cancers diagnosed in women. It is also the leading cause of cancer death among women in Iraq. This scientific paper aims to determine the uranium levels in the blood samples collected from breast cancer patients and analyzed using the CR-39 track detector to measure uranium concentrations. Fission track etching technique with CR-39 detector is a non-destructive technique used to detect and measure the spatial distribution of neutron-induced fission events in solid materials. It is a powerful tool for various applications in nuclear physics, radiation dosimetry, environmental monitoring, and geochronology. The results show that the uranium concentration among the patient women varied from 3.259 ppb to 1.918 ppb, while the uranium concentration among the healthy women varied from 2.15 ppb to 0.59 ppb. Increased uranium concentration in patient groups compared to healthy groups is well-documented. This is thought to be due to exposure to uranium through the environment, workplace, or medical procedures. Uranium is a heavy metal that can accumulate in the body over time and cause several health problems, including cancer, kidney damage, and congenital disabilities.
Shifts in the habitat suitability for large hammerhead sharks under climate change
Authors: Santos Catarina Pereira , Borges Francisco Oliveira , Guerreiro Miguel , Pissarra Vasco , Varela Jaquelino , Frazão-Santos Catarina , Rosa Rui
Published: October 2023

One of the chief consequences of climate change is the worldwide redistribution of species in the pursue of physiologically and ecologically favourable conditions. As part of one of the most threatened groups of vertebrates, assessing how climate change may affect the distribution patterns of key shark species is essential for their long-term conservation and management. The present study aims to assess how climate change projections (based on the representative concentration pathways 2.6, 4.5, 6.0, and 8.5) for the middle and end of the century may affect the global patterns of habitat suitability (HS) for large hammerhead sharks – a unique and particularly threatened group of elasmobranchs. Here, a decline in the average HS is projected for both Sphyrna lewini and Sphyrna zygaena, with the scale of HS decline generally increasing with time and RCP severity, while an increase in HS is generally projected for Sphyrna mokarran, albeit reduced over the long-term and overturned under long-term RCP8.5. Meanwhile, poleward shifts are projected for all three species, with considerable tropical declines for both S. lewini and S. zygaena. Additionally, regional shifts in suitability have the potential to affect population connectivity, the access to key habitats, and levels of exposure to other anthropogenic pressures, along with the effectiveness of conservation and management efforts. Taken together, these results showcase the importance of climate change for species’ extinction risk assessment and the urgency of its consideration for the design and implementation of conservation measures tailored to the oceans of tomorrow.
WITHDRAWN: Prediction of Vibration Waveform and Division of Influenced Partitions under the Action of Blasting
Authors: Zhao Yan , Wang Hailong , Li Yunhe , Yan Jialei
Published: October 2023

To study the impact of cutting blasting on the surface of the tunnel, a vibration waveform prediction function was constructed, and a method of dividing the affected area based on the vibration waveform theory was proposed. Based on the equivalent spherical charge theory, it is possible to establish a connection between the fitting coefficient and the engineering parameters in the equivalent source intensity function. Furthermore, a blasting vibration waveform function suitable for practical engineering can be constructed. Secondly, the reliability of the method introduced in this paper is verified based on the blasting vibration data monitored on site. Finally, the impact areas of blasting vibration are divided based on the peak particle velocity and vibration displacement as standards. The research results show that the vibration waveform prediction system introduced can better restore the vibration waveform corresponding to cutting blasting. In addition, the zoning method introduced in this article can reasonably divide the scope of the affected area. Moreover, the calculation process is simple and practicable. It has certain reference significance for similar blasting project.
Hydrogeochemistry and Groundwater Quality Assessment in Gujarat
Authors: Dalsania Kelvy , Pandey Vaishnavi , Sircar Anirbid , Chaudhary Dipti , Yadav Kriti
Published: October 2023

Assessing water quality is crucial for ensuring the availability of safe drinking water, sustainable agricultural practices, and safe industrial utilization. This paper presents a comprehensive study conducted over a five-year period in Lasundra, Savarkundla, Saputara, and Junagadh to determine whether the water is suitable for drinking, irrigation, and industrial use. The objective is to offer insightful information on the long-term fluctuations and trends in water quality in these areas. The collected data were utilized to calculate water quality indices specifically tailored for drinking, irrigation, and industrial purposes. The essential Water Quality Indices such as Ryznar Stability Index (RSI) and Langelier Saturation Index (LSI) have been examined for industrial application and primary indices like Sodium Absorption Ratio (SAR), Residual Sodium Carbonate (RSC), Kelly’s Ratio (KR), Potential Salinity (PS) and Permeability Index (PI) have been examined for drinking and irrigational applications of groundwater. These indices provided a quantitative assessment of overall water quality, enabling comparative analysis across the four study areas. Furthermore, advanced visualization techniques such as Piper, Wilcox, and Schoeller plots were illustrated to understand the changes in physiochemical characteristics over a five-year period. The results can help policymakers, water resource managers, and local communities in implementing appropriate measures to safeguard water resources, improve treatment processes, and enhance the water's quality for use in industrial, agricultural, and drinking purposes.
Experimental study on dredged slurry improved by vacuum preloading with top and bottom drainage
Authors: Fu Hongtao , Lin Jiahui , Wang Jun , Ni Junfeng , Gao Ziyang
Published: October 2023

The conventional vacuum preloading method is widely used to treat dredged slurry. However, this method cannot fully meet engineering requirements due to the loss of vacuum pressure. To overcome this issue, a method of vacuum preloading with top and bottom drainage is proposed, and the consolidation behavior of this method and the influence of the time ratio (a ratio of bottom vacuum application time to top vacuum application time) on this method are studied through laboratory model experiments. The results demonstrated that compared with the conventional vacuum preloading method, the average vane shear strength of the dredged slurry treated by vacuum preloading with top and bottom drainage increased by 20.6%, and the water content reduced by 6.0%. The time ratio has a significant effect on the consolidation of the dredged slurry, and the optimum time ratio is 1:1. Thus, vacuum preloading with top and bottom drainage can better complete the consolidation of the dredged slurry. In addition, this method can be used to develop a design guide for engineering practice.