bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Hydrological Models and Remote Sensing to Characterize Snow Pack Behaviour in High Mountain Environments
Authors: Ougahi Jamal Hassan , Rowan John Sibbald
Published: November 2023

Seasonal snowpacks, characterized by their snow water equivalent (SWE), play a major role in the hydrological cycle, snow melt contributions to floods and the subsequent availability of water resources downstream. Accurately estimating SWE and understanding its spatial and temporal variations presents a considerable challenge, particularly within mountainous regions characterized by complex terrain and limited observational data. Seeking to enhance the performance of the widely used Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), we report a new approach characterising snowpack behaviour incorporating both modelled and remotely sensed derived SWE calibration data. We focus on the Chenab River Basin (CRB) a headwater catchment of the Indus Basin, globally significant in terms of human inhabitants and intensifying flood risk due to climate change. We conducted a thorough assessment of five satellite-derived and reanalysis-based precipitation datasets: ERA5-Land, CMORPH, TRMM, APHRODITE, and CPC UPP. This reveals significant levels of uncertainty in global precipitation products when compared to reference data from observed stations as well as in the resulting simulated streamflow from the SWAT model. Subsequently, we expanded the scope of the SWAT model to encompass the spatial and temporal simulation of SWE. This was achieved by incorporating information from remotely sensed and modelled SWE products, manually adjusting snow parameters in R-SWAT for both the main basin and at sub-basin scales. Integrating SWE from reference snow products into the calibration process, alongside streamflow data, substantially enhanced modelling accuracy to simulate SWE compared to the conventional auto-calibration and single-variable approaches reliant solely on streamflow data. This approach results in considerable improvement in SWE predictions and to some extent in streamflow simulation in catchments dominated by snow. This research highlights the potential of remote sensing and modelled SWE parameterisation in the absence of in-situ snowpack data in high-altitude environments. An improved understanding of SWE behaviour is vital for predicting hydrological responses spanning hazards to water resources in the populous downstream regions of the Indus Basin, especially in the face of climate change.
Typical Village and Town Houses in the Cold Region of Northeast China Simulation Analysis of Courtyard Layout and Winter Wind Environment Habitability
Authors: Sun Ruiheng , Dong Junyan , Zhao Hui , Wang Liying , Qin Di
Published: November 2023

Folk residence in the cold region of Northeast China is an important part of China's traditional folk residence, with significant geographical representation. In this paper, we take the residential compounds of villages and towns in the cold region of Northeast China as the research object, summarize four typical layout forms of residential compounds of villages and towns in the cold region of Northeast China, simulate the wind environment of compounds of different layout forms in winter by using the computer numerical simulation software Fluent, and then analyze and evaluate the wind environment of compounds by combining with the evaluation standard of wind speed ratio and considering the area of wind shadows, number of vortices and other factors.
Interpreting Rectal MRI Post-Neoadjuvant Therapy
Authors: Miranda Joao , Causa Andrieu Pamela , Nincevic Josip , Gomes de farias Lucas de Padua , Khasawneh Hala , Arita Yuki , Stanietzky Nir , Fernandes Maria Clara , De Castria Thiago Biachi , Horvat Natally
Published: November 2023

Rectal cancer presents significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, with neoadjuvant therapy playing a pivotal role in improving resectability and patient outcomes. MRI serves as a critical tool in assessing treatment response. However, differentiating viable tumor tissue from therapy-induced changes on MRI remains a complex task. In this comprehensive review, we explore treatment options for rectal cancer based on resectability status, focusing on the role of MRI in guiding therapeutic decisions. We delve into the nuances of MRI-based evaluation of treatment response following neoadjuvant therapy, with particular attention to emerging techniques like radiomics. Drawing from current literature and insights, we provide essential recommendations for post-neoadjuvant therapy management in rectal cancer, all within the context of MRI-based findings.
Revolutionizing Vaccine Development for COVID-19: A Review of AI-Based Approaches
Authors: Ghosh Aritra , Petrie Maria M. , Pavlović Mirjana
Published: November 2023

AI-based approaches are increasingly being used to revolutionize vaccine development for COVID-19. Small molecules, peptides, and epitopes are being collected for therapy discovery, which could also direct AI-based models, screening, or generation [1]. AI-based models are being used for drug discovery and vaccine development, and pre-existing data is being leveraged through machine learning approaches for COVID-19 drug discovery and vaccine development [1]. The best candidate targets for future treatment development are being identified and evaluated using AI-based models [1]. AI-based approaches can be used to overcome challenges in manufacturing, storage, logistics, and safety and efficacy issues related to different vaccine candidates for COVID-19 [2]. AI algorithms can help identify the best vaccine candidates for COVID-19 while considering the efficiency of antigenic peptides for immune response generation [2]. The presentation of antigenic peptides by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules is the first step after COVID-19 vaccine administration for any vaccine-induced immune response [2]. Thus, AI-based models are being used to identify the best vaccine candidates for COVID-19 and to ensure that the vaccine-induced immune response is efficient and safe. The utilization of AI-based methods to address logistical, manufacturing, storage, safety, and efficacy issues regarding several COVID-19 vaccine candidates will be examined in this study. Additionally, while considering the effectiveness of antigenic peptides for the induction of an immune response, we will determine the best potential targets for the next treatment development and assess how AI-based models can help discover the best vaccine candidates for COVID-19. This research ultimately intends to offer insights into how AI-based techniques can transform COVID-19 vaccine development and how they can be applied to address vaccine development issues. In this paper, we focus on recent advances in using artificial intelligence to develop COVID-19 drugs and vaccines, as well as the potential of intelligent training in discovering COVID-19 therapeutics, highlighting potential challenges and solutions.
Scientometric Analysis of Scientific Production on Digital Transformation Banking
Authors: Cepeda-Ortiz Álvaro , González Miguel Angel
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this study is to bring out a scientometric analysis of the advances of digital transformation in the global banking sector. For this, a background search of the term "Digital Transformation Banking " has been brought out from the Web of Science (Wos) Database, covering records published between 2002 and 2023. A set of 312 publications was identified, which mainly includes a set of 264 academic articles, 29 articles published without cataloging a specific volume of a journal, 9 articles under review, 5 editorial material documents, 4 conference articles, and 1 document is a book chapter. Nowadays the scientific production is low but showing growing development presenting 123 publications and 7,754 citations for the year 2022. Among the scientific production, 43 publications from the Republic of China (8.8%) and 35 publications from Ukraine (7.8%) stand out. ,2%). It is also worth mentioning that the most relevant authors on this topic are Ricardo Palomo, professor and dean of San Pablo University, and Robert J Kauffman, professor at Singapore Management University in terms of influence. Main institutions in terms of scientific production, mainly: the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) of the United States and the Russian Academy of Sciences of Russia.
Estimating of Carbon and Nitrogen Content in Forest Ecosystems in the Background Areas of the Russian Arctic (Murmansk Region)
Authors: Ershov Vyacheslav , Sukhareva Tatyana , Ryabov Nikolay , Ivanova Ekaterina , Shtabrovskaya Irina
Published: November 2023

In this study, we made an estimate of the carbon and nitrogen content in the undisturbed terrestrial ecosystems in the northern taiga zone of Russia’s Murmansk region. The goal of this study was to examine the carbon and nitrogen dynamics in atmospheric fallout, assimilating organs of coniferous trees (Picea obovata and Pinus sylvestris), needle litter, soils, and soil water. The objects of our re-search were the most common dwarf shrub-green moss spruce forests and lichen-dwarf shrub pine forests of the boreal zone. The study was carried out on permanent plots between 1999 and 2020. Long-term dynamics of carbon concentrations in snow demonstrated a trend towards increasing carbon concentrations in forested and treeless areas of Murmansk region. It was shown that in representative spruce and pine forests, the concentrations and atmospheric fallout of carbon compounds and carbon leaching with soil water were higher below the tree crowns, compared to between the crowns. In soil water, a decrease was found in carbon leaching with the soil profile depth. For soils, the highest carbon concentrations were found in the organic and illuvial soil ho-rizons. The main soil sinks of carbon and nitrogen in northern taiga forests were found to be located in the organic soil horizon below the crowns. In northern taiga forests, the carbon content of living Picea obovata and Pinus sylvestris needles and Pinus sylvestris needle litter had minor variability; no significant interbiogeocoenotic and age differences were found. We found that the nitrogen content in brown needles and needle litter was significantly lower compared to photosynthetically active needles.
Wireless Technology Security and Privacy: A Comprehensive Study
Authors: Azam Hamza , Tan Micheal , Pin Lim Tik , Syahmi Muhammad Afiq , Qian Antony Liew Wen , Jingyan Huang , Uddin Muhammad Fuhad , Sindiramutty Siva Raja
Published: November 2023

Since the advent of the Internet, there has been a significant shift from wired to wireless communication between devices. The volume of data transmitted has surged, primarily driven by the exponential growth of network services, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and online users. This trend became especially pronounced with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, as the Internet's role and significance expanded dramatically. People began to spend more time online, engaging in activities like e-learning, remote work, and online shopping. Concurrently, concerns about the security of wireless communication channels have escalated. As more data is stored and transmitted over the Internet, cybercriminals are actively seeking unauthorized access to it to further their malicious objectives. Through a comprehensive literature review in the realm of wireless network security and privacy, it has become evident that several factors render these networks susceptible to vulnerabilities. The aim of this paper is to shed light on the major and common security and privacy challenges faced by existing wireless networks. Additionally, it seeks to demonstrate the array of techniques available to mitigate these issues. Ultimately, this paper will culminate in an in-depth analysis of cybersecurity measures to address the issues in wireless networks.
Charge Resolution Study on AMS-02 Silicon Layer-0 Prototype
Authors: Ubaldi Alessio , Graziani Maura
Published: November 2023

The work presented in this paper represents a preliminary study on the performance of the new Silicon tracker layer, the Layer 0 (L0), that will be installed on top of the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer (AMS-02), at the end of 2024. AMS-02 is a cosmic rays (CR) detector that has been operating on the International Space Stations (ISS) since May 2011. Thanks to its 9-layer Silicon tracker, this apparatus can perform high energy CR measurements with an unprecedented level of statistics and precision. However, high Z (Z $\ge 15$) CR nuclei statistic is strongly affected by fragmentation along the detector: with the installation of the new Silicon layer will be possible to achieve new unique high energy (TeV region) measures for those nuclei along with increased statistics for all nuclei up to Zinc. To achieve this, a Silicon ladder prototype, that will be part of the final Silicon layer, has been exposed to an ions test beam at the super-proton-synchrotron (SPS) of the CERN to characterize its charge resolution and the readout electronics. Preliminary results have shown a charge resolution of 10 $\%$ for nuclei up to Z=7.
Comparing the Loading Dose between Aflibercept and Faricimab for Neovascular Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Authors: Hara Chikako , Suzue Masaki , Fujimoto Satoko , Fukushima Yoko , Sayanagi Kaori , Nishida Kentaro , Maruyama Kazuichi , Sato Shigeru , Nishida Kohji
Published: November 2023

We compared the functional and morphologic effects in the loading dose between patients with treatment-naïve neovascular age-related macular degeneration treated with either intravitreal aflibercept (IVA) or intravitreal faricimab (IVF) injection in clinical settings. This retrospective study included 30 eyes from 28 patients who started IVA treatment between June and September 2022 and 30 eyes from 29 patients who started IVF treatment between October 2022 and March 2023. The mean best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) significantly improved from pre-treatment after loading dose in the IVA group (from 0.46 ± 0.46 to 0.36 ± 0.37, p=0.0047) and not in the IVF group (from 0.46 ± 0.41 to 0.44 ± 0.45, p=0.60). The mean central retinal thickness (CRT) significantly improved in both groups. The proportion of eyes with residual exudative change was greater in the IVF group than in the IVA group at 2 months after the first treatment. (p=0.026) We further analyzed the patients who obtained complete resolution of exudative changes after the loading dose. The IVA group had a significant improvement in BCVA, whereas the IVF group did not p=0.0047 and 0.20, respectively) Although IVA and IVF significantly improved the CRT, the BCVA improved significantly in IVA group and not in IVF group.
Semantic Modelling Approach for Safety-Related Traffic Information using DATEX II
Authors: Samper-Zapater J. Javier , Gutiérrez-Moret Julian , Rocha Jose Macario , Martinez-Durá Juan José , Tomás Vicente R.
Published: November 2023

The significance of Linked Open Data datasets for traffic information goes beyond just including open traffic data. It extends to incorporating links to other relevant thematic datasets available on the web. This enables federated queries across different data platforms from various countries and sectors, such as transport, geospatial, environmental, weather, and more. Businesses, researchers, national operators, administrators, and citizens at large can benefit from having dynamic traffic open data connected to heterogeneous datasets across different Member States. This paper focuses on the development of a semantic model that enhances the basic service of accessing open traffic data through a LOD-enhanced Traffic Information System in alignment with the ITS Directive (2010/40/EU). The objective is not limited to just viewing or downloading data but also to improve the extraction of meaningful information and enable other types of services that are only achievable through LOD. By structuring the information using the RDF format meant for machines and employing SPARQL for querying, LOD allows for comprehensive and unified access to all datasets. Considering that the European standard DATEX II is widely used in many priority areas and services mentioned in the ITS Directive, LOD DATEX II was developed as a complementary approach to DATEX II XML. This facilitates the accessibility and comprehensibility of European traffic data and services. As part of this development, an ontological model called dtx_srti, based on the DATEX II Ontology, was created to support these efforts.
Prevalence of Fetal Inflammatory Response Syndrome and Villitis of Unknown Etiology in the Placenta of Saudi Women and Their Association with Baby Gender
Authors: Aldahmash Waleed Mohammed , Aljerian Khaldoon , Alwasel Saleh Hamed
Published: November 2023

Long-term health consequences are influenced by circumstances that occur during pregnancy. The confluence of the maternal and fetal circulations occurs at the placenta, which is the first or-gan to develop. Placental pathology can provide an accurate diagnosis of inflammation inside the amniotic sac. The pathological alterations of preterm placentas provide evidence for the causes of numerous perinatal pathologies, including spontaneous preterm births. This retrospec-tive study aimed to re-examine placentas regarded as normal by the Obstetrics and Gynecology Department in our institution so that grading and staging of any evident inflammatory response could be evaluated and associated with baby gender. Eighty-four full-term placentas were col-lected after delivery. Placentas that were considered normal and were not sent to the histo-pathology department were taken. Morphological examination of fresh placenta was conducted. Full thicknesses of placenta samples were taken from central and marginal regions of placental disc. Fetal and maternal inflammatory responses syndrome were assessed. Villitis of unknown etiology (VUE) and chronic deciduitis also were evaluated in the placenta. Immunohistochemis-try (IHC) was also performed to evaluate patterns of inflammation in the placenta using an-ti-CD8 and anti-CD68 antibodies. The correlation between the silent pathologies and clinical complications or involvement of developing fetal inflammatory response syndrome was meas-ured. In this study, seventeen (20%) maternal inflammatory samples and ten (12%) fetal inflam-matory samples showed inflammatory responses. The frequency of chronic deciduitis and villi-tis of unknown etiology was more remarkable among Saudi pregnant women than the previ-ously reported findings in the literature of placental pathology. The prevalence of fetal and ma-ternal inflammatory response was greater in the placentas of mothers of males than in placentas of female mothers. Grading placental inflammation usually predict the degree of maternal an-ti-fetal cellular rejection. Fetal inflammatory response syndrome usually goes unnoticed in Sau-di Arabia. There are differences in the inflammatory response in the placenta based on the sex of the newborn. Increasing the number of placental samples that must be sent for microscopic in-spection may be preferable due to their significance in identifying the causes of chronic disor-ders.
Application of Various Genomic Selection Models in Cotton Fiber Quality
Authors: Zhai Dongdong
Published: November 2023

Cotton is the most important natural fiber cash crop, which has high commodity economic benefits and provides an important material foundation for China's construction. With the improvement of textile technology and living standard, higher requirements are put forward for raw cotton quality. Traditional cotton breeding methods need typing and selection. With the development of biotechnology and the research of genomics, genomic selection has been widely used in cotton breeding. Genomic selection is a new breeding method, which can be selected and bred by constructing a prediction model and using high-density molecular markers covering the whole genome. In this study, the application of various genomic selection models in cotton fiber quality was explored, which provided more reliable information for genetic breeding improvement in the future, thus helping to improve the efficiency of actual cotton breeding.
Using a 3D Silicon Micro-Channel Device and Raman Spectroscopy for the Analysis of Whole Blood and Abnormal Blood
Authors: Chiang Chao-Ching , Huang Song-Jeng , Nathaniel Immanuel Philip Nathaniel Immanuel , Lan Jun-Han , Lo Fang-Yuh , Young Kung-Chia
Published: November 2023

Blood testing is a crucial application in the field of clinical studies for disease diagnosis and screening, biomarkers discovery, organ function assessment, and personalized medication. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to collect precise data in a short time. In this study, we utilized Raman spectroscopy to analyze blood samples and extracted comprehensive biological information, including the primary components and compositions present in the blood. We conducted short-wavelength (532 nm green light) Raman scattering spectroscopy on blood samples, plasma, and serum, and subsequently analyzed the biological characteristics detected in each sample type. Our results indicated that whole blood had high hemoglobin content, which suggests that hemoglobin is a major component of blood. The characteristic Raman peaks of hemoglobin were observed at 690, 989, 1015, 1182, 1233, 1315, and 1562–1649 cm−1. Analysis of plasma and serum samples indicated the presence of β-carotene, which exhibited characteristic peaks at 1013, 1172, and 1526 cm−1. Additionally, in the field of medical blood testing, the novel 3D Silicon micro-channel device technology holds immense potential. It can serve as a substrate and helps to detect various diseases and biomarkers, providing real-time data to help medical professionals and patients better understand their health conditions. Changes in biological data collected in this manner could potentially be used to diagnose clinical diseases.
Haemodynamic Parameters Underlying the Relationship Between Sarcopenia and Blood Pressure Recovery on Standing
Authors: Duggan Eoin , Knight Silvin P. , Xue Feng , Romero-Ortuno Roman
Published: November 2023

Background: Along with sarcopenia, delayed blood pressure (BP) recovery after standing and orthostatic hypotension (OH) are among key clinical challenges associated with ageing. Previous studies have reported an association between sarcopenia and delayed orthostatic BP recovery and OH. However, the haemodynamic mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. Methods: 107 attendees to a falls and syncope clinic aged 50+ years underwent an active stand test with non-invasive beat-to-beat haemodynamic measurement. Hand grip strength and 5-chair stands time were measured. Muscle mass was estimated using bioelectrical impedance analysis, and participants were classified as non-sarcopenic and sarcopenic. Mixed effects models with linear splines were used to model the effect of sarcopenia status on Modelflow®-derived mean arterial pressure (MAP), cardiac output (CO), total peripheral resistance (TPR), stroke volume (SV) and heart rate (HR) after standing, while controlling for potential confounders. Results: Sarcopenia was associated with: attenuated recovery of MAP in the 10-20s period after standing (β -0.67, P<0.001); attenuated rise to peak (0-10s) and recovery from peak (10-20s) of CO (β -0.05, P<0.001; β 0.06, P<0.001); attenuated recovery (10-20s) of TPR from nadir (β -0.02, P<0.001) and attenuated recovery from peak (10-20s) of SV (β 0.54, P<0.001). HR was not significantly associated with sarcopenia status at any time interval after standing. Conclusion: The attenuated BP recovery after standing seen in sarcopenia appears to be driven by initial diminished peak of CO followed by attenuated recovery of CO from peak and TPR from nadir. The CO finding appears to be driven by SV rather than HR. Potential mechanisms for these findings include: cardio-sarcopenia, the effects of sarcopenia on the autonomic nervous system and/or the skeletal muscle pump.
Physiological Improvement in Patients with Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease by Pharmacological Doses of Thiamine Correlates with Increased Blood Levels of Thiamine Diphosphate
Authors: Artiukhov Artem V. , Solovjeva Olga N. , Balashova Natalia V , Sidorova Olga P , Graf Aastasia V , Bunik Victoria I
Published: November 2023

Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) neuropathy is a polygenic disorder of peripheral nerves with no effective cure. Thiamine (vitamin B1) is a neurotropic compound improving neuropathies. Our study shows therapeutic potential of daily oral administration of thiamine or its membrane-penetrating form sulbutiamine in CMT patients, by following their physiological performance along with the blood levels of the thiamine coenzyme form (thiamine diphosphate, ThDP), endogenous transketolase (TK) activity (holoTK), total TK activity (holoTK and apoTK) and TK saturation with ThDP (holoTK/(holoTK+apoTK)). The CMT patients exhibit significant positive correlation of the blood ThDP with the hand grip strength. Both thiamine and sulbutiamine may decrease a minor fraction of TK apoenzyme, shifting the TK activities to their lower limit of 0.03-0.04 U/mL. Although the average levels of ThDP, holoTK or apoTK do not significantly differ between CMT and control groups, high interpersonal variations in the levels of ThDP and activation of TK by ThDP are inherent in the control, but not CMT, subjects. The difference is associated with a statistically significant TK activation and positive correlation of the levels of ThDP and endogenous holoTK in the control subjects only. Gender dependence of negative correlations between the blood levels of apoTK and ThDP, and the dependence reversal in CMT patients vs. controls are shown. Thus, physiological benefits of pharmacological doses of thiamine in CMT patients are linked to changes in the thiamine-dependent metabolic network in the disease vs. healthy state.
Social Networks, the COVID-19 Pandemic, and Emerging Adults’ Mental Health: Resiliency Through Social Bonding and Cohesion
Authors: Perry Brea L. , Smith Nicholas C. , Coleman Max E. , Pescosolido Bernice A.
Published: November 2023

Objectives. To assess how personal social network characteristics moderated mental health declines during the COVID-19 pandemic in emerging adults compared with other age groups.

Methods. The Person to Person Health Interview Study, a representative, probability-based cohort study (n = 2485) in Indiana, collected data through face-to-face (baseline) and phone (follow-up) interviews before and during the pandemic. We used survey-weighted growth curve models to examine network effects on computer-adaptive testing measures of depression and anxiety severity.

Results. Respondents reported significantly increased depression and anxiety in 2021, which returned almost to baseline levels for most age groups by 2022 ( P < .001). Stronger ties to others and more interconnected ties were significantly associated with lower depression (B = −0.112 [ P < .05]; B = −0.086 [ P < .001]) and anxiety (B = −0.101 [ P < .05]; B = −0.063 [ P < .01]) severity across the pandemic. Interaction models revealed disproportionate protective effects of network characteristics on depression (B = −0.456 [ P < .001]; B = −0.268 [ P < .001]) and anxiety (B = −0.388 [ P < .001]; B = −0.284 [ P < .001]) for emerging adults.

Conclusions. Cohesive and affectively strong personal networks promote resiliency to common mental health challenges during periods of crisis, particularly for emerging adults whose social roles and relationships were disrupted during a critical period of development. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(S3):S258–S267. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307426 )
Распространение вариантов вируса SARS-COV-2, вызывающих интерес (VOI) и субвариантов Omicron, находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), на основе количества их геномов, депонированных в базу данных GISAID за неделю с 4 по 10 ноября 2023 г.
Authors: Дмитриева Людмила , Краснов Ярослав , Чумачкова Елена , Осина Наталья , Зимирова Анастасия , Иванова Александра , Карнаухов Игорь , Караваева Татьяна , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: November 2023

В обзоре представлена информация по циркулирующим в настоящее время вариантам вируса SARS-COV-2 вызывающих интерес (VOI) и субвариантов Omicron, находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), геномные последовательности которых размещены в международной базе данных GISAID за неделю с 4 по 10 ноября 2023 г.
The impact of comorbidities on outcomes in the multiple sclerosis population: a rapid review protocol
Authors: Frank Hanna A , Chao Melissa , Tremlett Helen , Marrie Ruth Ann , Lix Lisa M. , Karim Mohammad Ehsanul
Published: November 2023

Introduction: People with multiple sclerosis (MS) experience higher comorbidity burden than the non-MS population. Research has shown that having comorbidities alongside MS can lead to worse MS outcomes, including faster rates of disability progression, delays in initiating disease-modifying treatments, and earlier death. A comprehensive overview of which comorbidities affect these outcomes has not yet been published. This review aims to summarize what is currently known about these relationships to inform the development of a comorbidity index specific to people with MS.
Methods and analysis: A rapid review structure will be implemented that is in line with the current recommendations by the Cochrane Rapid Review Methods Group. Two databases will be searched (MEDLINE and EMBASE) and a grey literature search will be included. The Newcastle-Ottawa scale will be used for a risk of bias assessment. Results will be displayed visually in tables and graphs, as well as through a narrative synthesis.
Ethics and dissemination: Ethics approval is not required for this review. The rapid review will be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals. The results will also be disseminated through conferences and seminars.
PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023475565
Degradation of cetirizine by integrated techniques involving ozone and biological treatment process
Authors: Sarkhel Rwiddhi , Sarkar Kalyan Kumar , Chatterjee Pradip Kumar , Gupta Parthapratim , Mandal Tamal
Published: November 2023

Nowadays, wastewater treatment has been a major concern for organic contaminants which create hazardous effects on human health and the environment. In India, there are several pharmaceutical manufacturing industries located across the states from north to south and east to western states. These industries generate a lot of toxic effluent that is produced and disposed of into the ground, especially in open ground or surface water. So, here removal of pharmaceutical waste is chosen for the present focus of study. Cetirizine is an intense second-generation histamine H1 antagonist that compels in the treatment of allergic susceptible rhinitis and asthma. Therefore, eradication of cetirizine by integrated treatment serves to be an appealing option for the researchers. The degradation of pharmaceutical waste has been studied by the integrated treatment comprising Ozonation, and biological treatment by E. aurentiacum KX008295.1. The integrated treatment removes about 60% of cetirizine which tells that it is an effective option to treat types of pharmaceutical waste.
Construction of self-driving anti-αFR CAR-engineered NK cells based on IFN-γ and TNF-α synergistically induced high expression of CXCL10
Authors: Yi Ping , He Min
Published: November 2023

Background: Ovarian cancer is one of the most common gynecological malignancies. Previous studies have demonstrated that chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)-engineered NK-92 cells targeting folate receptor α (αFR) (NK-92-αFR-CAR) can specifically kill αFR-positive ovarian cancer cells, and are therefore a promising therapeutic approach for ovarian cancer. However, the migration barrier of CAR-engineered immune cells significantly restricts their antitumor effects. In addition, few studies have focused on biological changes in tumor cells other than death during the antitumor process of CAR-engineered immune cells.
Methods and Results: In this study, RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) first revealed that the expression level of the chemokine CXCL10 was most significantly increased in ovarian cancer cells co-cultured with NK-92-αFR-CAR. Second, cytokine stimulation and specific antibody neutralization experiments were used to confirm that IFN-γ and TNF-α secreted by NK-92-αFR-CAR synergistically induced high CXCL10 expression in ovarian cancer cells. Further signaling pathway inhibition, small interfering RNA (siRNA) interference, and luciferase reporter assays showed that IFN-γ induced ovarian cancer cells to express CXCL10 via the JAK1/2-STAT1 pathway, while the TNF-α-activated NF-κB pathway not only mediated the transcription of CXCL10, but also upregulated the expression of IFN-γ receptor 1 (IFNGR1), which further enhanced the activation level of the IFN-γ-IFNGR-JAK1/2-STAT1-CXCL10 signaling axis. Finally, anti-αFR CAR (αFR-CAR) and CXC-chemokine receptor 3A (CXCR3A), the CXCL10 receptor, were highly co-expressed in NK-92 cells (NK-92-αFR-CAR-CXCR3A) following lentivirus gene transfection. Cytotoxicity lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) showed that NK-92-αFR-CAR-CXCR3A could not only efficiently kill αFR-positive ovarian cancer cells in vitro but also secrete IFN-γ and TNF-α, which induced high expression of CXCL10 in tumor cells. Higher migration than that of NK-92-αFR-CAR was detected in NK-92-αFR-CAR-CXCR3A cells using a transwell assay. Compared with NK-92-αFR-CAR, NK-92-αFR-CAR-CXCR3A effectively killed tumor cells in different mouse xenograft models of ovarian cancer and significantly prolonged the survival time of tumor-bearing mice. Increased infiltration of NK-92-αFR-CAR-CXCR3A into tumor tissue was observed using immunohistochemistry.
Conclusions: This study not only confirmed that IFN-γ and TNF-α secreted by αFR-CAR-engineered NK cells can synergistically induce high expression of CXCL10 in ovarian cancer cells but also constructed self-driving αFR-CAR-engineered NK cells that can break through migration barriers based on the chemotaxis of CXCL10, which may provide a new powerful therapeutic weapon for ovarian cancer.
Screening Performance of COPD-PS Scale, COPD-SQ Scale, Peak Expiratory Flow, and Their Combinations for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in the Primary Healthcare in Haicang District, Xiamen City
Authors: Pan Zhigang , Shen Xueting , Yang Hua , Lan Chengdian , Tang Fen , Lin Qinfei , Chen Yingjie , Wu Jinxiang , Chen Xionghua
Published: November 2023

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common chronic disease, and its screening performance is crucial for improving early diagnosis and treatment. Our study aims to evaluate the screening performance of COPD-PS questionnaire, COPD-SQ questionnaire, Peak Expiratory Flow (PEF), COPD-PS questionnaire combined with PEF, and COPD-SQ questionnaire combined with PEF for COPD. We collected data from February 2023 to May 2023, distributing self-designed general information survey forms and COPD screening scales (COPD-PS questionnaire and COPD-SQ questionnaire) to residents undergoing physical examination in five community health service centers in Haicang District, Xiamen City, and completed lung function tests and PEF using a portable lung function detector. The results showed that the sensitivity of diagnosing COPD by COPD-SQ questionnaire, COPD-PS questionnaire, PEF, COPD-PS questionnaire combined with PEF, and COPD-SQ questionnaire combined with PEF were 0.439, 0.586, 0.519, 0.586, 0.612 respectively, and the specificity were 0.725, 0.621, 0.688, 0.689, 0.663 respectively, with ROC values of 0.606 (95%CI: 0.586–0.626), 0.640 (0.619–0.661), 0.641 (0.619–0.663), 0.678 (0.657–0.699), 0.685 (0.664–0.706) respectively. The sensitivity of diagnosing GOLD II and above by COPD-SQ questionnaire, COPD-PS questionnaire, PEF, COPD-PS questionnaire combined with PEF, and COPD-SQ questionnaire combined with PEF were 0.489, 0.620, 0.665, 0.630, 0.781 respectively, and the specificity were 0.714, 0.603, 0.700, 0.811, 0.629 respectively, with ROC values of 0.631 (95%CI: 0.606–0.655), 0.653 (0.626–0.679), 0.753 (0.730–0.777), 0.784 (0.762–0.806), 0.766 (0.744–0.789) respectively. Our study found that the accuracy of COPD screening by COPD-SQ questionnaire and COPD-PS questionnaire can be improved by combining the results of PEF. The screening performance of COPD-SQ questionnaire combined with PEF is relatively better. In future research, further studies are needed to optimize the performance of screening tools and understand whether their use will affect clinical outcomes.
Input interactions and Structural Dynamics in Greek agriculture productivity
Authors: Mandanas Zisis C. , Petropoulos Dimitrios P.
Published: November 2023

This paper aims to analyze the impact of fixed capital, variable inputs and labor and their interaction to the volume of the agricultural output in Greece, for the period 1981 - 2021, using the estimation equation of a Cobb-Douglas equation form. At a second level, an attempt is made to investigate possible changes in this relationship over time, using the Bai-Perron structural changes method and their effect on the observed relationship between agricultural inputs and output. The existence of a structural break in 2006 was confirmed, which is accompanied by differences in elasticities before and after this year. During the period 1981-2005, positive elasticities of labor and fixed capital were observed, indicating that the increase in these factors contributed positively to agricultural production, but with decreased returns to scale. In contrast, after 2006, negative elasticity of labor and fixed capital was detected, while the elasticity of variable factors of production remained positive. This change in elasticities indicates the inefficiency in the use of fixed capital and labor after 2006 and the increased influence of variable production factors on agricultural production. These findings highlight the need for continuous monitoring and analysis of factors affecting agricultural production, in order to enhance the competitiveness of the corresponding sector and ensure its sustainability in the future, offering new perspectives for the design and implementation of policies that will enhance agricultural development.
JEL classification: O130, Q100, R150
The Influence of Climate Change on Flooding and Social Inequalities from Remnants of Hurricane Ida
Authors: Li Xue , Wehner Michael , Judi David , Hetland Robert
Published: November 2023

Previous research has demonstrated that tropical cyclone-related precipitation and flooding have been increased by anthropogenic global warming. Our work aims to quantify the contribution of climate change to the deadly flooding from the remnants of Hurricane Ida (2021) and its impact on human society. We developed an analysis framework that combines lessons from climate change attribution science, two-dimensional hydrodynamic modeling, and flood impact evaluation, including a social inequality index, to estimate remnants of Ida flooding and consequences responding to current (locally 1° C warmer) and future (another 1° C warmer) climate change. We find that an additional quarter to a half million people were exposed to flooding due to current and future climate change. The human influence on flood impacts was larger with deeper flood depth (≥ 1 m) than with shallow depths. Socially vulnerable populations were found to be disproportionately more affected, and climate change exacerbates this inequality.
Idiopathic Harlequin Syndrome: A case report and literature review
Authors: MNAILI MOHAMED AMINE , Bourazza Ahmed
Published: November 2023

Harlequin's syndrome is a rare dysautonomic syndrome of the face characterized by sweating with flush of one side and anhidrosis of the contralateral side. Mostly idiopathic although several secondary cases have been reported in the literature, the purpose of the treatment is mainly aesthetic and functional. We report the case of a patient having harlequin syndrome in its idiopathic form with a literature review.
The Factors and Actors Engaged in Land Transaction Arrangement and Commoditization in Africa: an Example From the Bolgatanga Municipality of Northern Ghana
Authors: Akolgo-Azupogo Helen , Bardy Roland , Soale Joseph M.
Published: November 2023

Increase in multiple demands for land in Africa has been affected by increased global food and energy requirements together with population growth. This has in turn led to large-scale acquisition of lands for agriculture by foreigners and wealthy local investors. Small holder farmers are at risk of losing their lands to the investors even if they receive government support. What the African indigenous tradition has seen to be a gift of God to man is now commoditized. This often marginalizes the local people, undermines their livelihood. Information on the factors and actors in land commoditization is inadequate and often withheld. The paper sets out to identify these actors and factors. The Bolga Municipality is used as an example because the area carries all the characteristics that can be found throughout most of Africa. Data was gathered using key informant interviews, focus discussion and secondary sources.
The findings of the study reveal the following factors which urge people to sell their lands:
The need to pay school fees, people’s desire to build and live in decent houses, the need to expense money to uphold the tradition of resplendently celebrating funerals or to raise funds for the dowry of a bride, the fact that owners of small land parcels are often unemployed.
To solve the issues better information on the issue is needed as well as purposeful job-creation to decrease unemployment and socially adequate mortgages.
If the government does not take up the problem, social cohesion will fall apart.
Iodine-based dual-energy CT predicts early neurological decline from cerebral edema after large hemispheric infarction
Authors: Zimmerman William Denney , Pergakis Melissa , Ahmad Ghasan , Morris Nicholas A , Podell Jamie , Chang Wan-Tsu , Motta Melissa , Chen Hegang , Jindal Gaurav , Bodanapally Uttam , Simard J. Marc , Badjatia Neeraj , Parikh Gunjan Y
Published: November 2023

Background & Purpose:
Ischemia affecting two thirds of the MCA territory predicts development of malignant cerebral
edema. However, early infarcts are hard to diagnose on conventional head CT. We hypothesize
that high-energy (190keV) virtual monochromatic images (VMI) from dual-energy CT (DECT)
imaging enables earlier detection of secondary injury from malignant cerebral edema (MCE).
Methods:
Consecutive LHI patients with NIHSS ≥ 15 and DECT within 10 hours of reperfusion from May 2020 to March 2022 were included. We excluded patients with parenchymal hematoma-type 2 transformation. Retrospective analysis of clinical and novel variables included VMI Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS), total iodine content, and VMI infarct volume. Primary outcome was early neurological decline (END). Secondary outcomes included hemorrhagic transformation, decompressive craniectomy (DC), and medical treatment of MCE. Fisher’s exact test and Wilcoxon test were used for univariate analysis. Logistic regression was used to develop prediction models for categorical outcomes.
Results:
Eighty-four LHI patients with a median age of 67.5 [IQR 57,78] years and NIHSS 22 [IQR 18,25] were included. Twenty-nine patients had END. VMI ASPECTS, total iodine content, and VMI infarct volume were associated with END. VMI ASPECTS, VMI infarct volume, and total iodine content were predictors of END after adjusting for age, sex, initial NIHSS, and tPA administration, with a AUROC of 0.691 [0.572,0.810], 0.877 [0.800, 0.954], and 0.845 [0.750, 0.940]. By including all three predictors, the model achieved AUROC of 0.903 [0.84,0.97] and was cross validated by leave one out method with AUROC of 0.827.
Conclusion:
DECT with high-energy VMI and iodine quantification is superior to conventional CT ASPECTS and is a novel predictor for early neurological decline due to malignant cerebral edema after large hemispheric infarction.
Based on high-resolution CT, a predictive model for the development of infiltrative stage of 2-3cm pulmonary ground-glass nodules was constructed
Authors: Zhang Yifan , Qu Lin , zhang Haihua , Wang Ying , Gao Guizhou , Wang Xiaodong , Zhang Tao
Published: November 2023

Background: The purpose of this study was to analyze the imaging risk factors for the development of 2-3cm ground glass nodules (GGN) in the infiltrative stage, and to establish a nomogram prediction model for the pathological prediction of 2-3cm GGN.
Methods: We reviewed the demographic, imaging, and pathological information of 596 adult patients who underwent 2-3cmGGN resection between 2018 and 2022 in the Department of Thoracic Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital of the Air Force Medical University. based on single factor analysis, regression method was used to analyze multiple factors, and a nomogram prediction model for 2-3cmGGN was established.
Results: 1. The risk factors for the development of 2-3cm GGN during the invasion stage were pleural depression sign (OR=1.687 95%CI 1.010-2.820), vacuole (OR=2.334 95%CI 1.222-4.460), burr sign (OR=2.617 95%CI 1.008-6.795), lobulated sign (OR=3.006 95%CI 1.098-8.227), bronchial sign (OR=3.134 95%CI 1.556-6.310) , diameter of GGN(OR=3.118 95%CI 1.151-8.445) , CTR (OR=172.517 95%CI 48.023-619.745). 2. The 2-3cmGGN risk prediction model was constructed according to the risk factors, with an AUC of 0.839; the calibration curve Y was close to the X-line; and the decision curve was drawn in the range of 0.0-1.0.
Conclusion: 1. The risk factors for the development of 2-3cm GGN during the invasion stage were pleural depression sign, vacuole, burr sign, lobulated sign, bronchial sign, diameter of GGN and CTR, the predictive model based on the above factors has some clinical significance.
Diagnosis and treatment of patients with rare uterine artery pseudoaneurysm: seven case series and review of the literature
Authors: tong longxia , xiao ping , wu lin
Published: November 2023

Background
Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm (UAP) is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication of traumatic pelvic operations and non-traumatic delivery/abortion. Due to the lack of awareness, UAP is often diagnosed after the occurrence of paroxysmal massive vaginal bleeding.
Methods
This was a retrospective study of seven patients with UAP in the West China Second University Hospital from January 2018 to August 2022.
Results
In this study, the average age of seven patients was 26.71 years. Six patients presented with a history of traumatic surgery, including cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) (two patients), curettage for abortion (one patient), laparoscopic myomectomy (one patient), cervical conization (one patient), and curettage for gestational trophoblastic disease (one patient). The seventh patient underwent second-trimester pregnancy termination without a traumatic surgical procedure. The main symptom reported in patients was vaginal bleeding: three patients had paroxysmal massive vaginal bleeding amounting to more than 2000 mL. All the patients were confirmed using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Five patients underwent uterine artery embolization, and two patients were managed conservatively. One patient had massive vaginal bleeding again after bilateral transarterial embolization,MRI showed that the left UAP still existed, and finally transabdominal left internal iliac artery ligation and pseudoaneurysm resection were performed. All patients had good outcomes.
Conclusions
Seven patients with UAP were reviewed in this study, with their characteristic clinical symptoms, previous pelvic surgery, imaging features, treatment approaches, and prognosis described in detail and analyzed, hoping to provide new insights for the diagnosis or treatment of this rare life-threatening complication.