bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prediction of filtering efficiency of an air filter by using light shading rate
Authors: Sekiguchi Yusuke , toyama Ryoma , Zama Yoshio
Published: July 2023

There have been some studies on the theoretical formula for predicting the filtering efficiency of an air filter; however, accurate predictions remain challenging even today. Measurement of the filtering efficiency of an air filter requires multiple devices, including compressed air, a particle generator, and a particle counter. Therefore, utilizing easily measurable performance parameters for prediction is advantageous as it eliminates the need for measuring equipment, resulting in significant cost reduction. This study focuses on the light shading rate (LSR) as a readily measurable parameter that potentially correlates with filtering efficiency. To predict filtering efficiency, an empirical formula using LSR was attempted to be developed. Four types of test filters were produced using glass wool with different fiber diameters (df) as materials. The packing density (a), thickness (T), LSR, and filtering efficiency were measured and analyzed. In modeling LSR, the number of fibers (Nf) for thickness direction was obtained by calculating the inter-fiber distance (Di) using the packing density and the fiber diameter. The LSR per fiber (LSR/Nf) was determined based on the number of fibers (Nf). To assess the validity of the experimental formula for LSR, calculated and actual LSR values were compared, demonstrating a high level of agreement. Additionally, an experimental formula was constructed to predict the filtering efficiency based on the correlation between the LSR and the filtering efficiency. The experimental formula for predicting filtering efficiency also exhibited a high level of agreement, affirming the effectiveness of utilizing LSR for predicting the filtering efficiency.
Perception towards the implementation of telemedicine during COVID-19 Pandemic: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Assaye Bayou Tilahun , belachew Muluken , worku Aynadis , birhanu Sefefe , Sisay Ayenew , kassaw Mitiku , Mekonen Habtamu
Published: July 2023

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in the use of telemedicine as a means of delivering healthcare services remotely. Healthcare providers play a key role in the adoption and implementation of telemedicine to be effectiveness. Despite its benefits, such as increased access to care and reduced risk of infection transmission, there are concerns about its effectiveness and acceptance. The objective of the study was to assess health professionals' perceptions of telemedicine implementation and associated factors at government health facility during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Methods: A cross-sectional study design was conducted among eight hundred forty-five study participants from December 2020 to February 2021. A pre-test was performed on 5% of the total sample size, and the quality of the data was ensured by checking its completeness and consistency. Descriptive statistics and bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were used. The Variables with a P-value equal to or less than 0.25 in bivariable logistic regression were entered into a multivariable logistic regression, and model fitness was assessed.
Result:The study revealed that 60.9% of professionals had a good perception toward telemedicine implementation, with an 87.2% response rate. Health professionals with IT support staff, ICT training , who use social media platforms regularly, and availability of computer or smartphone within/outside their health facilitywere 4.7, 3.3, 3.7, and 13.2 times more likely to have a positive association towards telemedicine implementation respectively.
Conclusion: More than half of the health professionals had a good perception of telemedicine. Social media use, ICT training, computer accessibility, and the presence of IT support staff were all found to have positive associations with the telemedicine perception. In the era of the COVID-19 pandemic, the government should take the initiative to strengthen opportunities for health professionals to learn and apply telemedicine in their medical practice by providing ICT training, IT infrastructure and support staff, improving computer access, and recommending health professionals' positive use of social media in the health facility.
Stem cell antigen-1 cell-derived fibroblasts are crucial for cardiac fibrosis during heart failure
Authors: Tao Tingting , Du Luping , Teng Peng , Guo Yan , Wang Xuyang , Hu Yanhua , Zhao Haige , Xu Qingbo , Ma Liang
Published: July 2023

Aims
Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) present in the heart cannot differentiate into cardiomyocytes, but may play a role in pathological conditions. Therefore, the aim of this study was to scrutinise the role and mechanism of MSC differentiation in vivo during heart failure.
Methods and Results
We performed single-cell RNA sequencing of total non-cardiomyocytes from murine and adult human hearts. By analysing the transcriptomes of single cells, we illustrated the dynamics of the cell landscape during the progression of heart hypertrophy, including those of stem cell antigen-1 (Sca1)+ stem/progenitor cells and fibroblasts. By combining genetic lineage tracing and bone marrow transplantation models, we demonstrated that non-bone marrow-derived Sca1+ cells give rise to fibroblasts. Interestingly, partial depletion of Sca1+ stem cells alleviated the severity of myocardial fibrosis and led to a significant improvement in cardiac function in Sca1-CreERT2;Rosa26-eGFP-DTA mice. Similar non-cardiomyocyte cell composition and heterogeneity were observed in human patients with heart failure. Mechanistically, our study revealed that Sca1+ cells can transform into fibroblasts and affect the severity of fibrosis through the Wnt4-Pdgfra pathway
Conclusions
Our study describes the cellular landscape of hypertrophic hearts and reveals that fibroblasts derived from Sca1+ cells with a non-bone marrow source of largely account for cardiac fibrosis. These findings provide novel insights into the pathogenesis of cardiac fibrosis and have potential therapeutic implications for heart failure.
Graphical abstract:
Microbial Contaminated Paper Substrate – UV-Vis-NIR spectra of Model Systems
Authors: Gal Lukas , Paračková Patrícia , Kaliňáková Barbora , Šimonová Simona , Reháková Milena , Čeppan Michal
Published: July 2023

This study aims to study the possibility of distinguishing the UV-Vis-NIR spectra of filamentous fungi on a paper substrate from the background. Model samples of five filamentous fungi were used: Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus niger, Cladosporium herbarum, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Trichoderma atroviride. The model samples were cultivated on paper substrates, and two methods, Cross Validation (CV) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), were utilised to compare their spectra with the reference background spectra. The results of the CV analysis indicated that certain combined spectra sets of Cladosporium herbarum, Penicillium chrysogenum, Trichoderma atroviride, Aspergillus niger, and Alternaria alternata, at specific surface concentrations, exhibited two active components, signifying distinguishable differences from the background spectra. Additionally, the score scatter diagrams derived from PCA revealed clusters of samples, further confirming the distinguishability of the filamentous fungi spectra from the background. However, for Trichoderma atroviride, the scatter diagram demonstrated a relatively large scattering of points, impeding the resolution of spectra with a surface concentration of 2 105 cm-2 due to measurement inaccuracies. Based on the combined results of CV and PCA, the study concluded that the lower threshold of measurability for UV-Vis-NIR spectra varied among the different filamentous fungi. For example, Cladosporium herbarum, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Trichoderma atroviride exhibited a threshold around a surface concentration of 2 106 cm-2, while Aspergillus niger had a threshold around 2 105 cm-2, and Alternaria alternata had a threshold around 2 103 cm-2. In summary, this research provides insights into the distinguishability of filamentous fungi spectra on the paper substrate from background spectra using spectral analysis techniques, offering potential applications in fungal identification and characterisation.
Mental Health and Quality of Life of Patients with Differentiated Thyroid Cancer Prior to and After Radioactive Iodine Treatment: A Prospective Study
Authors: Changchien Te-Chang , Yen Yung-Chieh , Lu Yung-Chuan
Published: July 2023

Background Although patients with differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) have a good prognosis, their long-term clinical course can influence their mental health and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). However, few studies have evaluated mental health–related factors influencing subsequent HRQoL in this population.Methods In this 1-month cohort study, we evaluated the depressive and anxiety symptoms and HRQoL of patients with DTC and examined possible predictors of further HRQoL impairment. In total, 181 patients completed a questionnaire self-rating their mental health status (the Chinese Health Questionnaire [CHQ] and Taiwanese Depression Questionnaire [TDQ]) and HRQoL (the 36-item Short Form Health Survey [SF-36]) at baseline and 1 month after RAI therapy.Results Compared with the Taiwanese general population, the patients with DTC reported worse HRQoL in all dimensions of the SF-36. Multivariate regression models indicated that anxiety and depressive symptoms were both inversely correlated with some dimensions (physical functioning, bodily pain, and general health perceptions for CHQ; role limitations due to physical problems, and social functioning for TDQ). However, a psychiatric follow-up and treatment history was significantly associated with physical functioning and role limitations due to the physical problem dimensions of their HRQoL.Conclusions In conclusion, although anxiety and depressive symptoms may negatively affect certain domains of HRQoL, psychiatric follow-up can improve the physical dimension.
A Mendelian Randomization Study on IBD and Aging
Authors: Li Fan , Wang Zhaodi , Tang Tongyu , Liu Yuyuan , Zhao Qi , Wang Zhi , Han Xiaoping , Xu Zifeng , Chang Yu , Gou Zhaoyang , Li Yuqin
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims: Although observational studies have reported correlations between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and aging, there is no evidence supporting causal relationships between the two.
Methods: Summary data from the Genome-Wide Association Study (GWAS) were subjected to two-sample and bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) to assess the causal relationships between biomarkers of IBD and aging. Following IEU GWAS database screening and single nucleotide polymorphism filtering, various MR methods, including the inverse-variance weighted method, were applied to qualified instrumental variables. The heterogeneity and pleiotropy of the instrumental variables were verified by sensitivity analyses.
Results: Ulcerative colitis (UC) was associated with a 0.10 standard deviation (SD) unit increase in DNA methylation PhenoAge acceleration (adjusted P-value=0.010). SD unit increases in intrinsic epigenetic age acceleration were associated with increases in the probability of Crohn’s disease (CD) and IBD of 0.05 (adjusted P-value=0.032) and 0.04 (adjusted P-value=0.039), respectively. SD unit increases in physical activity and DNA methylation PhenoAge acceleration increased the probabilities of IBD by 0.03 and 0.04 (adjusted P-value=0.039), respectively. CD was associated with shorter telomere length; UC was associated with increased DNA methylation PhenoAge acceleration; and IBD was associated with decreased appendicular lean mass. Four factors associated with aging showed causal relationships: telomere length, DNA methylation GrimAge acceleration, DNA methylation Hannum age acceleration, and usual walking pace, with IBD ruled out.
Conclusion: These findings provide new evidence for the causal relationship between IBD and aging in European populations, as well as providing suggestions for the prevention and treatment of IBD.
Elevated neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio predicts bone metastasis in esophageal cancer
Authors: wang xuan , Zhang Xin , Chen Min , Bai Shuheng , li Wenyang , Wu Fang , Yang Yiping , Gao Ying , Ren Juan
Published: July 2023

Purpose
Research on bone metastasis in esophageal cancer (EC) is relatively limited. Once bone metastasis occurs in patients, their prognosis is poor, and it severely affects their quality of life. Currently, there is a lack of convenient tumor markers for early identification of bone metastasis in EC. Our research aims to explore whether neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) can predict bone metastasis in patients with EC.
Methods
Retrospective analysis of clinical indicators was performed on 604 patients with EC. They were divided into groups based on whether or not there was bone metastasis, and the patients' coagulation-related tests, blood routine, tumor markers and other indicators were collected. The receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) were used to determine the predictive ability of parameters such as NLR for bone metastasis in EC, and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted to determine the impact of each indicator on bone metastasis. Using binary logistic regression to obtain the predictive probability of NLR combined with tumor markers.
Results
ROC curves analysis suggested that the area under the curve (AUC) of the NLR was 0.681, with a sensitivity of 79.2% and a specificity of 52.6%, which can be used as a predictive factor for bone metastasis in EC. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that high NLR (odds ratio [OR]: 2.608, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.395–4.874, P = 0.003) can function as an independent risk factor for bone metastasis in patients with EC. Additionally, high PT, high APTT, high FDP, high CEA, high CA724, low hemoglobin, and low platelet levels can also predict bone metastasis in EC. When NLR was combined with tumor markers, the area under the curve was 0.760 (95% CI: 0.713–0.807, P < 0.001), significantly enhancing the predictability of bone metastasis in EC.
Conclusion
NLR, as a convenient, non-invasive, and cost-effective inflammatory indicator, could predict bone metastasis in EC. Combining NLR with tumor markers can significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy of bone metastasis in EC.
Lessons to be popular: the chemical basis of aggregation pheromone in Trypanosoma cruzi- infected and non-infected Chagasic bugs
Authors: Alavez-Rosas David , Gutiérrez-Cabrera Ana E. , Cruz-López Leopoldo , Córdoba-Aguilar Alex
Published: July 2023

Aggregation is one of the most remarkable behaviors in the animal kingdom – a process that is usually governed by pheromones. Triatomines are blood-sucking bugs that act as vectors ofTrypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease in mammals, including humans. Triatomines usually gather in roosting refuges by using aggregation pheromones of unknown chemical structure. In terms of vector control, one option to reduce triatomine-human contact is via capturing the insects into traps baited with lures based on such aggregation pheromones. As a first step towards this aim, we have elucidated the aggregation pheromone in the triatomineTriatoma pallidipennis, usingT. cruzi-infected and non-infected bugs. We utilized different extraction techniques and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry for the identification. Also, two different bioassays were implemented for evaluating the attractant and arrestant activity of the pheromone. We found thatT. pallidipennisproduced short-chain aldehydes as attractants, and nitrogen-derived compounds as arrestants. We detected differences in the production and perception of these compounds according to whether animals were infected or not. These findings are promising tools for triatomine control and serve to show thatT. cruzimay influence triatomine chemical ecology.
GTPBP8 is required for mitoribosomal biogenesis and mitochondrial translation
Authors: Wang Liang , Hilander Taru , Liu Xiaonan , Tsang Hoiying , Eriksson Ove , Jackson Christopher B. , Varjosalo Markku , Zhao Hongxia
Published: July 2023

Mitochondrial translation occurs on the mitochondrial ribosome, also known as the mitoribosome. The assembly of mitoribosomes is a highly coordinated process. During mitoribosome biogenesis, various assembly factors transiently associate with the nascent ribosome in facilitating the accurate and efficient construction of the mitoribosome. However, the specific factors involved in the assembly process, the precise mechanisms, and the cellular compartments involved in this vital process are not yet fully understood. In this study, we discovered a crucial role for GTP-binding protein 8 (GTPBP8) in the assembly of the mitoribosomal large subunit (mt-LSU) and mitochondrial translation. GTPBP8 is identified as a novel GTPase located in the matrix and peripherally bound to the inner mitochondrial membrane. Importantly, GTPBP8 is specifically associated with the mt-LSU during its assembly. Depletion of GTPBP8 leads to abnormal accumulation of the mt-LSU at a late assembly stage, indicating that GTPBP8 is essential for proper mt-LSU assembly. Furthermore, the absence of GTPBP8 results in reduced levels of fully assembled 55S monosomes. This impaired assembly leads to compromised mitochondrial translation and, consequently, impaired mitochondrial function. The identification of GTPBP8 as an important player in these processes provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying mitochondrial protein synthesis and its regulation.
Assessment of interrelationships between cognitive performance, symptomatic manifestation and social functioning in the acute and clinical stability phase of schizophrenia: Insights from a network analysis
Authors: Misiak Błażej , Piotrowski Patryk , Samochowiec Jerzy
Published: July 2023

Background: It has been shown that various aspects of clinical manifestation of schizophrenia are strongly related to social functioning. However, it remains unknown as to whether similar factors predict social functioning at various stages of psychosis. Therefore, the present study aimed to compare the effects of interconnections between various domains of psychopathology and neurocognition on social functioning in people during acute phase of psychosis and those during remission of positive and disorganization symptoms using a network analysis.
Methods: Two independent samples of individuals with schizophrenia spectrum disorders were enrolled (n = 208). Clinical assessment covered the levels of functioning, positive, negative and depressive symptoms. Cognition was recorded using the Repeatable Battery for the Assessment of Neuropsychological Status (RBANS).
Results: Both networks did not differ significantly on the majority of network comparison tests, except of significantly higher strength centrality of negative symptoms in participants during clinical stability. In both networks, the majority of centrality metrics had the highest values for the RBANS attention score that is a sum of scores from two tasks (digit span and coding). In both networks, social functioning was directly connected to positive, negative and depressive symptoms as well as the RBANS scores of attention and language.
Conclusions: Findings from the present study indicate the central role of cognitive deficits, especially those related to attention, processing speed, and working memory in shaping functional impairments regardless of schizophrenia phase. Therapeutic interventions that aim to improve functional capacity need to target these domains of neurocognitive performance.
Bridging Data Gaps for 1D-2D Flood Modeling in Northeast Central Morocco: Insights from Statistics of Extremes and Estimation Methods
Authors: Okacha Abdelmonaim , Salhi Adil , Bouchouou Mounir , Fattasse Hamid
Published: July 2023

Floodplains are both a blessing and a curse. They offer fertile soil and water but pose a risk of flooding and habitat loss, particularly in semi-arid regions such as Northeast Central Morocco. Flood modeling is critical for mitigating flood impacts and improving disaster management strategies. However, data scarcity poses significant challenges in accurately simulating floods. This article discusses three knowledge gaps in flood risk management: (i) evaluating flood flow estimation methods, (ii) improving flood modeling accuracy, and (iii) updating plans to mitigate flood risks. This study addresses this challenge by using a two-step approach to fill hydrological data gaps and enhance flood modeling. The first step uses frequency analysis to predict extreme rainfall events. The second step compares the Gradex technique and empirical analysis of flood flows. These techniques consider rainfall-flow relationships, flood flow return time, and concentration time. By integrating 1D and 2D flood models and analyzing rainfall and topographic data, the study aimed to improve flood predictions and address challenges arising from limited data availability. It was revealed that the estimated flow for the 100-year return in the Nekor plain is 1,338.75 m3/s. This would result in extensive flooding, affecting an area of 2,017 Ha. The flooding would likely inundate farmlands, villages, and infrastructure, causing widespread damage and disruption. These findings have practical implications for decision-makers, planners, and researchers involved in hydraulic modeling and urban planning.
Influence of window opening on cyclic behavior of precast infill wall with sliding joints
Authors: Huang Weiyuan , Chen Qiming , Zhang Chao , Wongso Santosa , Zhang Shaohua , Deng Xuesong , Liang Zhicheng
Published: July 2023

In engineering practice, creating window openings in partition infill walls is a common requirement for infilled frames. However, the intervention of infill walls may interrupt the desired cyclic behavior of the infilled frame, and worst yet, the inevitable window opening might further aggravate such negative interaction. To protect the openings from the detrimental multiple diagonal struts mechanism of the traditional infill wall with a window opening under lateral loadings, this research presents a novel infill wall system with a window opening for semi-rigid steel frames. Three half scaled specimens are subjected to quasi-static cycle tests: a bare steel frame, a steel frame infilled with a traditional infill wall with a window opening, and a precast infill wall with a window opening and sliding joints in a steel frame. Experimental results show that the proposed infill system with a window opening can release adverse crack development or opening deformation of the window opening by mitigating the detrimental multiple diagonal struts effect in conventional infill walls with window openings under lateral loadings. In this way, the developed infilled frame exhibits similar cyclic behavior to the designed bare steel frame with higher energy dissipation capacity. Furthermore, parametric analysis results reveal that the friction factor of the sliding joints has a significant effect on enhancing the bearing capacity of the proposed infill system, while the change of opening sizes and locations of the window opening has negligible impact on the cyclic behavior of the developed infill system.
An unpremeditated complication of COVID-19 and mucormycosis: a case report, brief review, and warning for tunnel vision
Authors: Mehdinezhad Hamed , Ahangar Reza Mohseni , Azizi Mohammad Golparvar , Ghasemian Mohammad , Pirzaman Ali Tavakoli
Published: July 2023

Over the course of the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, numerous complications have been documented. In this report, we have detailed an unexpected complication of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection that occurred in a 73-year-old female patient who was simultaneously afflicted with mucormycosis and another unanticipated problem. Due to the lack of recovery of the patient after receiving mucormycosis treatment and continued fever, cough and hemoptysis, bronchoscopy was performed for her. During bronchoscopy, we encountered a foreign body that was the cause of the patient's fever, cough, and hemoptysis. Rigid bronchoscopy was performed and a foreign body (2.7 x 1.2 cm) was removed from the left main bronchus. Although research has showed fewer cases of pediatric Foreign Body Aspiration (FBA) during lockdown periods, there is not enough evidence about FBA risk in elderly patients with comorbidities. Finally, in the treatment of cases of COVID-19 infections co-infected with opportunistic fungal and maybe even bacterial infections, we should not look at the patient through a tunnel vision and consider all possible scenarios for the patient.
OTLD：A four-stages visual system for perception of autonomous vehicles
Authors: Xue Qingfeng , Wang Xinyu , Tu Gepeng , Wu Jing
Published: July 2023

With the development of autonomous vehicle, it has become a challenging problem that reducing cost under the condition of ensuring perception performance. The sensors such as lidars have greatly increased the production cost of autonomous vehicles while camera is much cheaper. So in this manuscript we develop OTLD (O-object detection, T-multiple object tracking, L-lane detection, D-distance estimation), a complete four-stages visual system to solve environmental perception of autonomous vehicles. And it consists of four functions including object detection, tracking, lane detection and distance estimation. You Only Look Once version-4 (YOLOv4), Simple Online and Real- time Tracking (SORT), Ultra-Fast Lane Detection (UFLD) and iteration method of Perspective-n-Point (PnP) are respectively selected as the solutions of four tasks and their superiorities on the aspects of accuracy and real-time performance are verified in our application scenario. Through fitting lane lines and sorting traffic targets by lane and distance, the 4 stages of OTLD works collaboratively and we encapsulate them into a graphical user interface (GUI) to establish a new system of environmental perception. The final integration OTLD runs at 25FPS in the form of C++ program on GTX1660 GPU and Inter Corei5-9400F CPU, which meets the real-time requirement. And it could realize all the functions that have been mentioned about environmental perception even by using a single monocular camera. For automotive industry, OTLD provides algorithmic reference for other vision projects of autonomous vehicle.
Bacterial Colonization in a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Gonçalves Carolina , Garcia Catarina , Aliyeva Elzara , Ferreira Marta , Barroso Maria
Published: July 2023

Objective: Analyze the multi-drug resistant bacteria (MDRB) colonization rate and its associated risk factors, as well as the subsequent development of infection.
Study Design: Retrospective review of all newborns admitted to a level III NICU, between November 2018 and November 2019 (n=294). Rectal and nasal swabs were performed upon admission and weekly until discharge for detection of MDRB.
Results: The MDRB colonization rate was 28.2%. Colonization with MDRB was associated with mothers’ admission at least 1 week prior to delivery, infants’ lower gestational age and birth weight, antibiotic therapy upon admission, mechanical ventilation, central line and longer hospitalization. Colonization with a MDRB was an important risk factor for subsequent infection (31.3% of colonized-infants developed late-onset sepsis vs. 5.2% of non-colonized ones).
Conclusions: Early detection of colonized patients through screening with subsequent implementation of strict contact
Mating type revulsion and dynamic genetic diversity of Phytophthora infestans during 2010–2021 in yunnan, China
Authors: Tang Wei , Li JianMei , Liang JingSi , Tan Chen , Wang MengLin , Hao DaHai , Li Zhou , Zou WanJun , Liu Jing , Wang Hongyang , Li Canhui
Published: July 2023

Potato late blight caused by Phytophthora infestans is the most severe problem in the Yunnan Province. To understand the population dynamics of P. infestans in Yunnan during 2010–2020, 357 isolates were collected from Dali and Kunming, purified, and analyzed for the mating type, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) haplotype, metalaxyl resistance, pathotype, and simple sequence repeat (SSR) DNA fingerprints. The A1 mating type was dominant before 2012, but since 2012, the A2, A1A2 and self-fertile types became dominant and fewer A1 isolates were obtained over the years. Among the 357 isolates, only two were IIa mtDNA haplotypes and the rest were Ia mtDNA haplotypes. Pathogenicity assays using R1-R11 gene carried hosts revealed 67 pathotypes among all test isolates. SSR analysis identified 242 multi locus genotypes(MLGs), combined principal component analysis indicated that populations in 2010, 2011 and 2012 predominantly adopted asexual life cycles, but from 2013 to 2021, limited sexual reproduction likely occurred. UPGMA analysis indicated that five test isolates collected from Dali and Kunming from 2013 to 2015 but not in other years represented the EU_13_A2 lineage. Our results support the hypothesis that clonal reproduction, combined with host selection and limited sexual reproduction, underlies the dynamic genetic diversity of P. infestans in Yunnan.
Analysis of novel biomarkers and immune cell alterations in sepsis based on single-cell sequencing and machine learning algorithms
Authors: Tao Linfeng , Zhu Yue , Liu Jun , Li Chao , Pan Yiyuan
Published: July 2023

We aim to investigate the changes of the immune milieu during sepsis and screen out novel biomarkers with favor diagnostic value using single-cell sequencing and machine learning algorithms. Two gene-chip datasets (GSE28750 and GSE95233) and two single-cell sequencing datasets (GSE167363 and GSE195965) were obtained from the GEO database. We used “limma” package in R software to screen out differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in GSE28750 dataset. Then, 10 key genes mostly associated with sepsis were screened out using the random forest algorithm, including SNX3, NAIP, MMP8, EVL, TRBC1, BCL11B, FAIM3, ABLIM1, SIRPG, and CD7. Results of ROC curves showed that these genes also have favor diagnostic value. Moreover, the diagnostic values of biomarkers were also validated in GSE95233 dataset. The immunological microenvironment of sepsis was analyzed using CIBERSORT algorithm, and the relationship between biomarkers and immune cells was identified by “Spearman” method. We also carried out single-cell sequencing analysis on GSE167363 dataset and found that septic T cells differentiated later than normal T cells, and expression of TRBC1 was gradually downregulated over T cell developmental trajectories. Meanwhile, through combing single-cell sequencing analysis and WGCNA analysis, we found that monocytes were upregulated and functionally activated, whereas T cells exhibited significant apoptosis and loss of function both in patients with sepsis and mouse sepsis models.
A constitutive model based on internal variable method for the microstructure simulation of four-layer structure formed by the superplastic forming/diffusion bonding process
Authors: Wu Dipeng , Wu Yong , Fan Ronglei , Qiu Jiayang , Chen Minghe
Published: July 2023

This study set out to realize the prediction of microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of the titanium alloy four-layer structure formed by the superplastic forming/diffusion bonding (SPF/DB) process. The flow behavior and the microstructure evolution of TC31 alloy were studied by the high-temperature experiments. A physically-based constitutive model was established and applied in the superplastic forming process of the four-layer structure. The TC31 titanium alloy four-layer structure was fabricated to verify the accuracy of the constitutive model. The results showed that the main reason for the increase in material stress and the decrease in elongation was the growth of grains. The TC31 four-layer structure was soundly fabricated by SPF/DB process, and the maximum damage value of the structure was located at the sidewall area with a value of 0.16. The compression strength of the structure was 19.0MPa, and the compression failure mode of the four-layer structure was the cracking of the bonding area. The experimental results were similar to the simulation results, which demonstrated that the finite element simulation with the internal variable model could accurately predict the shape, the thickness distribution and the damage distribution of the four-layer structure during the SPF process.
Robust Segmentation Model Based on Triplet Criterion for Images with Intensity Inhomogeneity
Authors: Ullah Inam , Khan Muhammad Salim , Ali Haider , Shah Zahir
Published: July 2023

Intensity inhomogeneity poses a significant obstacle in the process of image segmentation, particularly when employing region-based level set methodologies. This challenge becomes particularly pronounced when dealing with images that exhibit varying intensity values between the background and foreground objects. To mitigate this issue, a novel approach has been introduced, which leverages both global and local statistical information to enhance the accuracy of segmentation outcomes. The proposed model comprises three key components: a regularisation term, a local term, and a global term. The regularisation term facilitates the attainment of smooth and coherent segmented regions, while the local term detects areas of intensity variation by utilizing location-specific statistical data. The global term takes into account the overall intensity characteristics of the image, enabling the differentiation of items with dissimilar intensities. The effectiveness of the proposed model has been meticulously evaluated through comprehensive experimentation, which has demonstrated superior accuracy and efficacy when compared to existing models. These results serve to affirm the efficacy of the methodology and underscore its capacity to effectively address the challenges arising from non-uniform intensity distribution in image segmentation tasks.
DeepRNAScanner: Deep Learning-Based Discovery of Regulatory miRNA Sequences in Lung Cancer
Authors: Akram Adeel , Iqbal Muhammad Shahid , Rehman Saeed Ur
Published: July 2023

Lung cancer remains a formidable and life-threatening disease worldwide. Recent advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence have led to the discovery of several significant miRNAs in lung cancer research, offering potential solutions to critical issues. In this study, we introduce miRES, a novel method that employs extreme learning machines, support vector machines, and deep learning techniques to identify lung cancer-associated miRNAs. Our approach tackles the inherent two-class classification problem using machine learning and deep learning algorithms. By leveraging the miRES method, we uncover detailed information about miRNA sequences and discern their regulatory functions, including up- and down-regulation. Through comparative analysis with other machine learning and deep learning methods, we demonstrate that miRES surpasses performance metrics such as sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. Specifically, miRES achieve an impressive 83.34% sensitivity (Sn), 78.55% specificity (Sp), 0.73 F1 score, and 0.4882 Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC). Furthermore, our proposed method outperforms various deep learning methods, including CNN, ResNet101, ResNet152, VGG16, VGG19, AlexNet, and GoogleNet, in classifying miRNA sequences, attaining a K-10 value of 96.25%. Overall, miRES offers a powerful and effective approach for identifying and characterizing lung cancer miRNA sequences, leveraging the strengths of machine learning and deep learning techniques. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge aimed at combating lung cancer and improving patient outcomes.
Helping Clinicians Conceptualise Behavioural Insomnia in Children: Development of the Kids Insomnia Problems Scale (KIPS)
Authors: Donovan Caroline L. , Uhlmann Laura , Shiels Amy
Published: July 2023

This paper outlines the development and psychometric evaluation of the Kids Insomnia Problems Scale (KIPS), an instrument intended to assess factors underpinning child behavioural insomnia. Study 1 comprised an exploratory factor analysis (EFA; n = 328 parents of children aged 3–12 years), with items found to load highly onto 6 factors; Sleep Maintenance Problems, Co-Sleeping Behaviours, Bedtime Routines, Bedtime Resistance, Bedtime Worries and Bedtime Fears. Study 2 comprised a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and tests of convergent validity (n = 313), with results confirming the factor structure and providing evidence for convergent validity through correlations in expected directions between KIPS scores and other sleep, anxiety and behaviour measures. Study 3 tested the test-retest reliability of the KIPS (n = 53), and found support for the temporal stability of the KIPS over a 2-week period. Overall, the results provide strong preliminary evidence for the validity of the KIPS total score and its subscales, although the Bedtime Routines subscale may be less useful.
Influence of language barrier and cultural background in Hepatitis B disease knowledge in a Chinese community of Spain.
Authors: Pocurull Anna , Tapias Laura , Wang Tao , Morata Maria Jose , Miralpeix Anna , Collazos Cristina , Mariño Zoe , Lens Sabela , Forns Xavier
Published: July 2023

Background
Hepatitis B infection is prevalent in patients of Asian origin. Due to language barriers and cultural differences, it is not always straightforward to evaluate disease knowledge in the liver clinics. We aimed to assess the current awareness on HBV (Hepatits B virus) infection and its mechanisms of transmission in HBV-infected Chinese patients and their household contacts.
Methods
HBV-infected Chinese patients and their household contacts were interviewed by a nurse (Chinese or native) about their knowledge on hepatitis B transmission mechanisms, use of preventive measures and vaccination status. Non-Chinese HBV-infected patients were defined as a control group.
Results
A total of 182 patients and 398 relatives/household contacts participated in the study. Eighty-five (48%) patients and 240 (60%) of household contacts were from China. Language barrier was documented in 80% of Chinese patients and 44% of their household contacts. Knowledge on parenteral and sexual HBV transmission was high (90%) in both groups of patients. However, Chinese patients were significantly more aware of vertical transmission (94% vs 68%, p < 0.01) and were more forewarned in the use of parenteral transmission measures (93% vs 74%; p < 0.01). No differences in preventive sexual measures were detected. Despite being less knowledgeable on horizontal and sexual HBV transmission compared to controls (86% vs 96% for parenteral; 81% vs 95% for sexual, p < 0.01),Chinese household contacts used preventive measures more frequently (79% vs 65% for horizontal transmission, p < 0.01). Vaccination coverage was lower in Chinese (78%) compared to control (86%) household contacts although the difference did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusions
Despite relevant language barriers, Chinese HBV-infected patients are well informed on the mechanisms of HBV transmission, particularly on the vertical route. Cultural differences may explain a higher use of preventive measures among the Chinese population. HBV vaccination of household contacts should be reinforced in both groups of individuals.
Did the Cold War Produce Development Clusters in Africa?
Authors: Dower Paul Castañeda , Gokmen Gunes , Breton Michel Le , Weber Shlomo
Published: July 2023

We examine the lasting impact of Cold War alignment on African economic development. Faced with the empirical challenge of ambiguous and interdependent international alliances during the Cold War, we introduce a non-cooperative game of social interactions to determine blocs. Employing computational methods for non-convex optimization, we solve for the unique equilibrium two-bloc partition. The partition predicts UN General Assembly voting patterns in Africa during the Cold War but not after, and is uncorrelated with pre-Cold War outcomes. Surprisingly, average incomes in these two groups of countries are similar today. Yet, the alignment does affect the shape of development. Western-aligned countries have greater financial development, inequality, and democracy than Eastern-aligned ones, reflecting the Cold War’s ideological divide.
JEL codes: C62, C72, F54, F55, N47, O19, O57.
Biodegradation, Water Sorption Isotherms and Thermodynamic Properties of Extruded Packaging Composed of Cassava Starch With Tomato Peel
Authors: Cotta Anômora Ariane Rochido dos Santos , Ferreira Laura Fonseca , Borges Soraia Vilela , Nascimento Bruna de Souza , Cotta Alexandre Alberto Chaves , Dias Marali Vilela
Published: July 2023

Scientists are developing new technologies for biodegradable active packaging made from natural polymers and antioxidant agents as a more sustainable alternative to conventional packaging made from fossil fuels. In this study, the biodegradation of the films was evaluated using techniques such as Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry (TG), visual and morphological analysis using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Water sorption isotherms and thermodynamic parameters were analyzed at different temperatures (5 °C, 15 °C, and 25 °C) and relative humidities until the samples reached a constant weight. The results showed changes in the morphology, color, and mass of the cassava starch films with tomato peel due to biodegradation. FTIR revealed structural changes in the films, while TG/DTG curves did not show significant differences over time. The addition of tomato peel to the polymer matrix resulted in lower water solubility. The Guggenheim-Anderson-de Boer (GAB) model provided the best fit for the water sorption isotherms. The monolayer moisture content (Xm) increased with temperature, indicating the availability of active sites for water sorption in the material. Thermodynamic analyses indicated that lower moisture content corresponded to more active sorption sites, and the sorbed water molecules exhibited greater order. In conclusion, biodegradable active packaging offers an environmentally friendly alternative as it decomposes more rapidly than conventional packaging made from fossil-derived materials. The sorption isotherms demonstrated that the adsorption in the packaging materials is controlled by entropy, emphasizing the importance of the number of available active sites for binding rather than the chemical composition of the film.
Synthesis and Characterization of Bio-nanocomposites Based on Poly(Glycerol Itaconic acid) (PGIt) and Using Poly(ɛ- caprolactone) diol (PCL-diol) as Macro Crosslinkers containing Cloisite Na + to application in Tissue engineering
Authors: Mahdavi Reza , Zahedi Payam , Goodarzi Vahabodin
Published: July 2023

Biomaterials are a crucial issue in the field of tissue engineering. Two types of polymeric biomaterials, such as Poly(glycerol Itaconic acid) (PGIt) and Poly(ɛ-caprolactone) diol (PCL-diol), were synthesized by polycondensation and ring opening polymerization (ROP) respectively. The PCL-diol was selected as a minor phase with 30 and 50 wt.%, and Closite-Na+ was selected as the nanophase with a constant amount of 5 wt.%. Molecular structures PGIt and PCL-diol were analyzed by FTIR, 1H-NMR, and GPC techniques. Microstructures showing the presence of PCL-diol in the PGIt have not created compatible morphologies, albeit the presence of clay nanoparticles has helped to achieve the proper morphologies. Low angle XRD showed exfoliated, and intercalated morphologies can be predicted to pure PGIt and PGIt70PCLdiol30Clay5 samples. Mechanical analysis showed that Young’s modulus and elongation at the break of PGIt50PCLdiol50Clay5 and PGIt100 samples were higher than other samples. DMTA analysis showed that adding PCL-diol into the PGIt increased glass transition temperature (Tg) and storage modulus at 37oC. The master curve of the studied samples was prepared by the WLF equation at body temperature. Hydrocatalytical degradation, contact angles, and MTT analysis showed that all samples behave well in biological conditions. Cell adhesion, Dapi, and Alizarin red analysis were carried out on the selected samples, and their results showed that the presence of PCL-diol and Clay into the PGIt has improved the biological behavior of the sample and PGIt50PCLdiol50Clay5 shows just behavior.
Multi-omics investigation of the resistance mechanisms of Pomalidomide in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Zhuang Yan , Li Chenyu , Jiang Hua , Li Lu , Zhang Yuanteng , Yu Wei , Fu Weijun
Published: July 2023

Background
Despite significant therapeutic advances over the last decade, Multiple myeloma remains an incurable disease. Pomalidomide is a second-generation Immunomodulatory drug that is commonly used to treat patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma. However, approximately half of the patients exhibit resistance to pomalidomide treatment. While previous studies have identified Cereblon as a primary target of Immunomodulatory drugs’ anti-myeloma activity, it is crucial to explore additional mechanisms that are currently less understood.
Methods
To comprehensively investigate the mechanisms of drug resistance, we conducted integrated proteomic and metabonomic analyses of 12 plasma samples from multiple myeloma patients who had varying responses to pomalidomide. Differentially expressed proteins and metabolites were screened, and were further analyzed using pathway analysis and functional correlation analysis. Also, we estimated the cellular proportions based on ssGSEA algorithm. To investigate the potential role of glycine in modulating the response of MM cells to pomalidomide, cell viability and apoptosis were analyzed.
Results
Our findings revealed a consistent decrease in the levels of complement components in the pomalidomide-resistant group. Additionally, there were significant differences in the proportion of T follicular helper cell and B cells in the resistant group. Furthermore, glycine levels were significantly decreased in pomalidomide-resistant patients, and exogenous glycine administration increased the sensitivity of MM cell lines to pomalidomide.
Conclusions
These results demonstrate distinct molecular changes in the plasma of resistant patients that could be used as potential biomarkers for identifying resistance mechanisms for pomalidomide in multiple myeloma and developing immune-related therapeutic strategies.
The effects of berteroin on inflammatory mediators and antioxidant enzymes expression in human periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Hosokawa Yoshitaka , Hosokawa Ikuko , Shimoyama Masahiro , Okamoto Risa , Ozaki Kazumi , Hosaka Keiichi
Published: July 2023

Berteroin is a bioactive substance classified as an isothiocyanate found in cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, arugula, and salad leaves. In this study, we aimed to determine whether berteroin exerts anti-inflammatory effects on human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLCs), a resident cells of periodontal tissue. Berteroin suppressed interleukin (IL)-1β or tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α-induced chemokines (C-C motif chemokine ligand (CCL)2, CCL20, C-X-C motif chemokine ligand (CXCL)10, IL-8, and IL-6) production and intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)-1 expression in HPDLCs. In addition, berteroin inhibited phosphorylation of IκB kinase (IKK)-α/β, nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65, and IκB-α and degradation of IκB-α in the NF-κB pathway induced by IL-1β or TNF-α stimulation. Moreover, berteroin could inhibit signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 phosphorylation in TNF-α-stimulated HPDLC. Furthermore, berteroin increased the expression of the antioxidant enzymes, heme oxygenase (HO)-1 and NAD(P)H quinone dehydrogenase (NQO)1, in IL-1β or TNF-α-stimulated HPDLCs. These results suggest that berteroin may decrease the production of inflammatory mediators in HPDLCs by suppressing the NF-κB pathway, and may also decrease the local reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in periodontal lesions by increasing the production of antioxidant enzymes.