bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inclusion of Fibrinoid Necrosis increases the accuracy of synovial tissue assessment in predicting response to methotrexate: analysis of the UCLouvain Brussels ERA Cohort
Authors: Natalucci F. , Triaille C , Mullem C. , Sokolova T. , Sapart E. , Bellefon L. Meric , Nzeusseu A. , Galant C. , Lauwerys B. , Durez Patrick
Published: March 2024

Objective
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) often exhibits suboptimal treatment response despite early diagnosis and treatment. This study aimed to analyze Early Rheumatoid Arthritis (ERA) synovial biopsies through histology and immunohistochemistry (IHC) to identify predictive factors for treatment response to Methotrexate (MTX).
Methods
140 ERA patients from the UCLouvain Arthritis Cohort underwent synovial biopsy and were monitored after initiating Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drug (DMARD) therapy. Histological features [Synovial Hyperplasia, Fibrinoid Necrosis (FN), Hypervascularization and Inflammatory Infiltrate] and IHC (CD3, CD20, CD138, CD68) were each semi-quantitatively assessed on a 0–3 scale with 7 levels.
Results
A strong association was observed between synovial CD68 and Fibrinoid Necrosis scores [r = 0,44 (0,27 − 0,56); p < 0,0001]. CD68 correlated with C-Reactive Protein (CRP), DAS28, SDAI and CDAI. Fibrinoid Necrosis score correlated with CRP and DAS28. Patients were then categorized as CD68NecrosisHIGH (CD68 + Necrosis ≥ 3) and CD68NecrosisLOW (CD68 + Necrosis < 3). CD68NecrosisHIGH exhibited higher pre-treatment disease activity [5.48 (1.6) versus 4.8 (1.7); p = 0.03] and a greater fall in DAS28 [1.99 (2.06) versus 1.1 (2.27), p = 0.03], SDAI [21.45 (IQR 23.3) versus 11.65 (IQR 17.5); p = 0.003] and CDAI [16 [14.9] versus 10.5 (20.1), p = 0.04]. CD68NecrosisHIGH patients had a higher EULAR Moderate/Good Response rate. CD68Necrosis score was incorporated into a probability matrix model together with clinical features (SJC44 and DAS28) to predict achieving a Moderate/Good EULAR Response Criteria at 3 months with a good performance (AUC 0.724).
Conclusion
FN and CD68 + in ERA synovial biopsies identify patients with higher disease activity and predict a better treatment response at three months. A model including synovial CD68 and fibrinoid necrosis with baseline clinical features predicts EULAR response at 3 months.
Estimating the Strength of Bi-Axially Loaded Track and Channel Cold Formed Composite Column using Different AI-Based Symbolic Regression Techniques
Authors: Ebid Ahmed M. , El-Aghoury Mohamed A. , Onyelowe Kennedy C. , Ors Dina
Published: March 2024

In this research work, the strength of bi-axially loaded track and channel cold formed composite column has been estimated by applying three AI-based symbolic regression techniques namely “Genetic Programming (GP)”, “Evolutionary Polynomial Regression (EPR)” and “Group Method of Data Handling Neural Network (GMDH-NN)”. The collected numerically generated data entries containing global slenderness ratio (Column height / minor radius of gyration) (λ), local slenderness ratio of channel (bolts spacing S2 / channel thickness) (λc), local slenderness ratio of track (bolts spacing S1 / track thickness) (λt), relative eccentricity in the major direction (ex/D) and the relative eccentricity in the minor direction (ey/B) as the independent parameters and the normalized average normal stress at failure (Ult. load /Area) / yield stress (F/Fy) as the dependent parameter. The results of the models were validated using the R2, MAE and RMSE metrics. Both correlation and sensitivity analysis showed that the global slenderness ratio (λ) has the main influence on the strength, then the relative eccentricities (ex/D, ey/B) and finally the local slenderness ratios (λc, λt). Comparing predicted and calculated strengths showed that the three developed predictive models have the same level of accuracy (94%) with (R2 > 0.965), (MAE < 0.03) and (RMSE < 0.03).
Application of Pistachio Shell Biochar with Organic Cow Manure for Sustainable Agriculture Practice
Authors: Pradhan Snigdhendubala , Parthasarathy Prakash , Mackey Hamish R. , Al-Ansari Tareq , McKay Gordon
Published: March 2024

Sustainable crop production supports food security by mitigating water and nutrient stress from manures by excessively drained water. Cow manure is a good nutrient resource to enhance soil fertility and plant growth but requires a suitable amender to reduce the nutrients loss by leaching. Worldwide more than 20400 metric tonnes of pistachios were consumed where roughly 30% of the weight of the nut is the shell and could be a good feedstock for biochar production. Therefore, this study aims to produce biochar from pistachio shell by pyrolysis process at three different temperatures 350 to 550°C and by the analysis of various properties towards agriculture, the biochar at 450 ˚C was amended with 0% (control), 2%, 4% and 8% to the manure for eggplant growth (Solanum melongena). Out of all fractions of biochar application, 2% biochar has virtuous performance to increase 5.63 ± 1.45 cm of plant height, 1.33 ± 4.79 cm leaf length and 1.90 ± 4.43 cm leaf width compared to the control. The leaf chlorophyl content and plant biomass were also significantly (p = 0.02) increased compared to the control condition. However, there is no statistical difference was noticed in stomatal conductance and water retention capacity (p > 0.11) due to greater plant growth. We concluded from this study, a lower fraction of biochar application with manure is beneficial to reduce nutrient leaching from the manure. Under the circular economy and frameworks of sustainability, pistachio shell biochar application as an amendment in crop production has been a high legislative focus on valorizing food waste.
Impact of solvation on the photoisomerisation dynamics of a photon-only rotary molecular motor
Authors: Filatov(Gulak) Michael , Paolino Marco , Kaliakin Danil , Olivucci Massimo , Kraka Elfi , Min Seung-Kyu
Published: March 2024

Multiscale nonadiabatic molecular dynamics simulations of the working cycle of a 2-stroke photon-only light-driven molecular rotary motor are presented. The simulations, which produced data consistent with the available transient spectroscopy measurements, predict a considerable decrease in the isomerisation quantum yield in methanol solution with respect to the gas-phase. The origin of the decrease is traced back to the ability of the motor to establish hydrogen bonds with solvent molecules. The analysis suggests that a modified motor molecule with a reduced ability to form hydrogen bonds will display increased quantum efficiency. The results obtained in the present work help to extend the set of engineering rules for designing light-driven molecular rotary motors.
Postoperative sputum viscosity is thick in patients with malignant laryngeal tumors: Development of a risk prediction model
Authors: Wang Qing , Ma Hongli , Li Min , Ma Yanan
Published: March 2024

Purpose
The global incidence of malignant laryngeal tumors is increasing each year, and the high morbidity and mortality rates of these tumors place a heavy burden on the healthcare system. Patients with malignant laryngeal tumors need long-term standardized airway management after surgery, with adequate care to ensure that the artificial airway remains unobstructed for the normal respiratory function of the body. Sputum viscosity will affect effective ventilation of the airway, affect the postoperative functional recovery of patients, reduce quality of life, and severely threaten patient health. Therefore, the present study investigated the risk factors of postoperative sputum viscosity in patients with malignant laryngeal tumors and constructed a line chart prediction model to provide theoretical guidance for clinicians.
Materials and Methods
By using the convenient sampling method, we recruited 130 patients with malignant laryngeal tumors who were hospitalized in a tertiary care hospital in Shanxi province from January 1, 2022 to January 1, 2024. According to the postoperative viscosity of the sputum, the patients were assigned to the viscous group (n = 52) and non-viscous group (n = 78). Patient-related preoperative data were collected through the electronic medical record system of the hospital. Logistic regression was used to analyze the risk factors for sputum viscosity after the tumor removal surgery, and the line chart prediction model was drawn with R software. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test was used to determine the goodness of fit for the model, and a receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was constructed to detect the prediction effect of the model.
Results
The incidence of viscous postoperative sputum was 40% in patients with malignant laryngeal tumors. Logistic regression analysis revealed that age, smoking, drainage tube placement, and Ca2 + levels were the risk factors for viscous postoperative sputum in patients with malignant laryngeal tumors. According to the Hosmer-Lemeshow test, the area under the ROC curve was 0.914 (95% CI: 0.749–0.991), sensitivity was 0.90, and specificity was 0.938. Furthermore, based on the 50-fold cross-validation method, the accuracy of the verification model was 0.838, and the accuracy rate was 0.891. These results suggest that the model has a relatively stable fitting effect and a high predictive value.
Conclusion
Patients with malignant laryngeal tumors have a viscous sputum. This condition has a high incidence, and the model developed in this study could predict patients early and efficiently. The present study provides a scientific basis to effectively prevent the occurrence of viscous sputum postoperation.
Post-operative Anaemia Independently Predicts Prolonged Hospital Length of Stay After Upper Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Ng Aloysius , Jones Courtney , Mitteregger Volker , Hunt Nicole
Published: March 2024

Background
Prolonged hospital length of stay (LOS) after major surgery is associated with increased mortality rates, readmissions, and postoperative complications, adversely affecting functional recovery. To address this issue and optimize resource allocation, we conducted a retrospective cohort study focusing on elective upper gastrointestinal cancer surgeries.
Methods
Observational retrospective cohort study of all patients who underwent various upper gastrointestinal cancer procedures at a major tertiary hospital in 2021. Data were extracted from a prospective database. Pre-, intra-, and post-operative factors were collected. Patients were dichotomized into expected LOS and prolonged LOS.
Results
111 patients were analyzed. The average age was 64.0 years and 36.9% underwent a Whipple’s procedure. 23.4% of the patients had prolonged hospital LOS. Patients with longer hospital LOS had no neoadjuvant radiation therapy (84.6% vs 82.4%, p = 0.016), more readmission to the theatre (34.6% vs 7.1%, p = 0.001), more unplanned ICU admissions (15.4% vs 2.4%, p = 0.023), longer ICU admissions (76.9% vs 74.1%, p = 0.012), lower intra-op Hb (106.5 ± 17.9 vs 115.8 ± 17.0, p = 0.021), lower day 1 post-op Hb (100.1 ± 17.3 vs 111.7 ± 15.7, p = 0.002), lower 1st -week nadir Hb (89.3 ± 17.0 vs 104.9 ± 16.6, p < 0.001) and more post-op transfusion requirements (23.1% vs 5.9%, p = 0.019). Univariate analysis identified several significant predictors of prolonged hospital LOS, including unplanned ICU admission, readmission to theatre, lowest intra-op Hb, lowest day 1 post-op Hb and 1st week Hb nadir. Multivariate analysis adjusting for unplanned ICU admission (OR = 6.80, CI 1.03-45.00, p = 0.047) and readmission to theatre (OR 8.48, CI 2.40–30.00, p = 0.001) revealed that lower Hb levels (OR 0.95, CI 0.92–0.98, p = 0.002) were associated with prolonged hospital LOS.
Conclusion
Post-operative anemia, unplanned return to theatre and unplanned ICU admission are significant factors contributing to extended hospital stays. Addressing post-operative anemia may effectively reduce hospital LOS.
Comparison of perioperative indices and postoperative complications between two surgical treatments for benign tumours in the infratemporal parapharyngeal space: Mandibular ascending branch longitudinal osteotomy versus paramedian osteotomy
Authors: Hao ZHU , Xiaowen Zhao , Mengjie Zheng , Li Zhang
Published: March 2024

Background: This was a retrospective analysis of perioperative indicators and postoperative complications of ascending branch longitudinal osteotomy versus paramedian osteotomy for treating patients with benign tumours. The aim was to provide a reference for the surgical treatment of benign tumours in the infratemporal parapharyngeal space.
Methods: Clinical medical records and imaging data for 58 patients with benign tumours in the infratemporal parapharyngeal region admitted to the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department of the General Hospital of Northern Theater Command were collected from November 2010 to June 2023. 28 patients underwent mandibular median osteotomy (Group A) and 30 patients underwent mandibular ascending branch longitudinal osteotomy (Group B) for the treatment of benign tumours. Comparative analysis of intraoperative bleeding, operation time, and postoperative complications between the two groups was conducted using the t test and chi-square test.
Results: The intraoperative blood loss and operation time in Group B were significantly lower than those in Group A (p <0.05), and the incidence of postoperative complications such as limited mouth opening, gap infection, and nerve injury was significantly lower than that in Group A (p <0.05). Patients were followed up from June to December. Postoperatively, temporary mouth opening was limited, the reduction in masticatory function gradually returned to the normal level within approximately 1-3 months, and facial nerve damage returned to normal within approximately 3-6 months after surgery.
Conclusion: 1. When the tumour is confined to the infratemporal parapharyngeal space, ascending longitudinal osteotomy has the advantages of less intraoperative bleeding, less surgical time and fewer postoperative complications. 2. Paramedian osteotomy is more suitable when a tumour in the infratemporal parapharyngeal region invades the pterygopalatine fossa upwards, grows beyond the trailing edge of the maxilla backwards, or invades the skull base downwards.
Sustained mTOR inhibition with sirolimus improves respiratory outcomes in LAM patients with COVID-19
Authors: Zhang Miao-yan , Yang Luning , Cheng Chongsheng , Zhang Tengyue , Zhang Shuhuai , Hu Danjing , Wang Hanghang , Zhang Xiaoxin , Yang Yanli , Tian Xinlun , Xu Kai-Feng
Published: March 2024

Background
Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a rare lung disease that predominantly affects women and can lead to severe respiratory complications. The impact of COVID-19 on LAM patients, particularly regarding the use of mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors, remains poorly understood. This study investigates the clinical outcomes of LAM patients with COVID-19 and evaluates the role of sustained mTOR inhibition in respiratory outcomes.
Results
Our cohort included 186 LAM patients with COVID-19. Prior to infection, 72.6% were on mTOR inhibitors, with 29.6% discontinuing therapy due to infection. The hospitalization rate was 1.1%, with no reported need for invasive ventilation or fatalities. Patients with FEV1 less than 70% predicted had a higher risk of dyspnea exacerbation and supplemental oxygen requirement. Continuation of mTOR inhibitor therapy was associated with a lower risk of SpO2 decline, especially among patients with impaired lung function. Vaccination status did not significantly affect the prognosis.
Conclusions
LAM patients with COVID-19 showed a low rate of severe illness and mortality, with impaired lung function correlating with worse respiratory outcomes. Continued mTOR inhibitor therapy during COVID-19 infection may improve respiratory outcomes, suggesting the importance of maintaining treatment during viral pandemics.
Alpha-synuclein-induced nigrostriatal degeneration and pramipexole treatment disrupt frontostriatal plasticity
Authors: Benoit-Marand Marianne , Chevalier Sarah , Decourt Mélina , Francheteau Maureen , Balbous-Gautier Anaïs , Fernagut Pierre-Olivier
Published: March 2024

Parkinson’s disease is characterized by the degeneration of substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc) dopaminergic neurons, leading to motor and cognitive symptoms. Numerous cellular and molecular adaptations following neurodegeneration or dopamine replacement therapy (DRT) have been described in motor networks but little is known regarding associative basal ganglia loops. This study investigated the contributions of nigrostriatal degeneration and pramipexole (PPX) on neuronal activity in the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), frontostriatal plasticity and markers of synaptic plasticity. Bilateral nigrostriatal degeneration was induced by viral-mediated expression of human mutated alpha-synuclein in the SNc. Juxtacellular recordings were performed in anesthetized rats to evaluate neuronal activity in the OFC. Recordings in the dorsomedial striatum (DMS) were performed and spike probability in response to OFC stimulation was measured before and after a high frequency stimulation (HFS). Post-mortem analysis included stereological assessment of nigral neurodegeneration, BDNF and TrkB protein levels. Nigrostriatal neurodegeneration led to altered firing patterns of OFC neurons that were restored by PPX. HFS of the OFC led to an increased spike probability in the DMS, while dopaminergic loss had an opposite effect. PPX led to a decreased spike probability following HFS in control rats and failed to counteract the effect of dopaminergic neurodegeneration. These alterations were associated with decreased levels of BDNF and TrkB in the DMS. This study demonstrates that nigral dopaminergic loss and PPX both contribute to alter fronstostriatal transmission, precluding adequate information processing in associative basal ganglia loops as a gateway for the development of non-motor symptoms or non-motor side-effects of DRT.
The role of the information content of the Moroccan treasury securities real yield curve in forecasting the future economic situation in Morocco
Authors: ALAOUI Mohammed Hassan , SOUSSI Outmane Noufail
Published: March 2024

This study aims to investigate the role of the slope of the real interest rate curve of Treasury bills in predicting the future economic situation in Morocco. Economic theory suggests that the slope of rates can be explained by three factors: the effects of monetary policy, expectations of monetary policy, and the intertemporal smoothing of consumption. Our theoretical model focuses on the latter explanation, suggesting that households aim to maintain a constant level of consumption, regardless of fluctuations in interest rates and the economic situation. To examine this relationship, we constructed a regression model that includes several lagged financial and/or monetary explanatory variables, such as real interest rates. This analysis utilizes quarterly data from 2007 to 2020. Our results underscore the importance of the information embedded in the structure of real interest rates, particularly the spread of real interest rates, for analyzing and forecasting future economic growth in Morocco.
Feedback-Driven Insight Generation and Recommendation for Health Self-Management
Authors: Susaiyah Allmin , Härmä Aki , Reiter Ehud , Balloccu Simone , Petković Milan
Published: March 2024

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the impact of personalized health insights generated from wearable device data on users' health behaviors. The primary objective is to assess whether user feedback-driven algorithms enhance the relevance and effectiveness of health insights, ultimately influencing positive changes in users' daily activities.
Methods: A two-month field study was conducted with 25 healthy volunteers using Mi Band 6 wearable devices. Participants were divided into test and control groups, and the test group received personalized insights recommended by a neural network-based algorithm fine-tuned by user feedback. The data collected included various health parameters such as calories burned, step count, heart rate, heart minutes, active minutes, sleep duration, sleep time and sleep segments. Insights were provided through a Telegram chatbot and user feedback was collected through a rating system.
Results: The study revealed that the test group, which considered user feedback for insight recommendations, showed a significant improvement in daily activity compared to the control group. The relevance of the insights over time, as evidenced by feedback regression trends, showed a notable increase in the test group. Additional analyzes explored the relationship between insight delivery timing, user feedback, and delays, providing insights into user engagement patterns.
Conclusion: This research highlights the effectiveness of personalized health insights generated from wearable data in positively influencing user health behaviors. Incorporating feedback from users into recommendation algorithms greatly enhances the relevance and effectiveness of insights, encouraging behavioral improvements. The results emphasize the significance of timing when providing insights and propose potential areas for future investigation, such as utilizing Graph Neural Networks to improve recommendation systems. In general, personalized insights from wearables have the potential to empower individuals to manage their health and well-being effectively.
Utility of Radial Endobronchial Ultrasound with a Guide Sheath for Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions in Patients with Pulmonary Emphysema
Authors: Zhou Lefei , Wang Feng , Wang Yan , Wang Zhen , Xu Lili , Tong Zhaohui
Published: March 2024

Background
Radial endobronchial ultrasound with a guide sheath for transbronchial biopsy (EBUS-GS-TBB) can be considered for diagnosing peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs) with fewer complications in patients with emphysema. However, the utility and safety of bronchoscopy for PPLs in the proximity of emphysema-area lesions remain unclear. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and complications of the initial diagnostic procedure of bronchoscopy with EBUS-GS-TBB according to the proximity of PPLs to emphysema areas, along with factors affecting the successful diagnostic yield for PPLs, and to identify the feasibility of molecular and genetic testing using EBUS-GS-TBB-obtained tumor samples.
Methods
The medical records of 278 consecutive patients with PPLs who underwent EBUS-GS-TBB without X-ray fluoroscopy guidance were screened. We compared PPLs with emphysema in such lesions. PPLs with emphysema were divided into two groups: PPLs located in non-emphysema areas and those inside or near emphysema areas.
Results
This study included 84 patients with emphysema (non-emphysema area group = 46; inside or near emphysema area group = 38). The diagnostic yield was significantly higher for PPLs located in non-emphysema areas than for PPLs inside or near emphysema areas (82.6% vs. 52.6%, p = 0.013). Multivariate analysis revealed that PPLs located in non-emphysema areas (odds ratio = 5.614) and EBUS images within lesions were significant factors affecting diagnostic yield. Further, the utility of EBUS-GS-TBB for PPLs based on the proximity of PPLs to emphysema-area lesions in patients with emphysema is safety.
Conclusions
In patients with emphysema, the positional relation of PPLs to emphysema lesions and EBUS images within lesions were important factors affecting successful diagnosis using EBUS-GS-TBB.
Feistel Cipher based Enhanced Image Encryption Algorithm with Dynamic Key Generation
Authors: Mehta Deevya , Savla Jenil , Iyer Sridhar , Patil Nilesh
Published: March 2024

Various block cipher algorithms are developed keeping feistel cipher as base. These algorithms comprise of substitution boxes, permutation boxes and transposition technique. They follow symmetric key encryption method. This paper also proposes a symmetric key block cipher technique which can be used for encrypting both text and images before transmitting these over internet. The algorithm has 16 rounds of operations with a unique combination of s-boxes, p-boxes and transposition method. The key generation is dynamic similar to AES and key size can be extended as per requirement. Three different images of different qualities were tested and a 49.997% average diffusion in original image was observed along with original image being decrypted as it was. The security in terms of brute force attack, differential and linear cryptanalysis was analysed and a comparison with AES was also performed. At the end it was concluded that the algorithm mentioned is an effective an secure method of encrypting images to transmit over the communication channels.
Detection of Vehicles and Analysis of Traffic Volume by Real-Time Video-graphic Technique using Python Algorithm
Authors: Ramadan Osman Kantunsung , K R. Srinivasa , Reddy Avuthu Narender
Published: March 2024

Today, one of the most pressing challenges in every region of the world is transportation. Every nation approaches its transportation issues differently by its demands and within its capacity. Volume is crucial for transportation system planning, design, and operation. The procedure involves identifying the predominant volume of traffic on roadways at a certain place during a specified time period. It is quantified by the quantity of cars per minute, hour, and day. Translating the flow of different vehicle classes into a single unit called the passenger car unit is crucial for representing traffic flow on a route over a certain time period. The volume of traffic is dynamic and changes throughout the day. The amount of daily traffic fluctuates on different days of the week, different months, and seasons of the year. Intelligent transport system (ITS) traffic management is a vital component. Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) is a system that incorporates sophisticated communications, information, and electronic technologies into transportation infrastructure and vehicles. ITS is designed to reduce traffic congestion, enhance safety, and decrease transit times and fuel use. The advancement of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) has led to a rising need for real-time traffic data. In the past, manual estimates were the most prevalent method. Several observers employ technology, such as mechanical and electronic counting boards, to count the number of passing cars, their sorts, and even the number of people. Currently, there are various standard surveillance technologies to capture real-time traffic data, such as image processing and inductive loop detection. Using these approaches, traffic statistics, vehicle speeds, and classifications may be collected. However, they have certain drawbacks, such as their restricted scope and high cost of installation and maintenance. The study, therefore, presented diminutive research on using an algorithm for detecting vehicles and analyzing traffic volume using real-time video graphic techniques to combat some of these challenges. This research was conducted using the image detection model YOLO. The algorithm counts traffic volume and was compared with the manual count traffic volume to check the reliability of the proposed model. In this research, we outlined a five-tasked methodology viz, recording of traffic video (data collection), developing an algorithm for detection and counting of vehicles, testing of the algorithm with recorded video, exporting data for analysis, and comparing algorithm count with manual count traffic volume to check the trustworthiness of the model. The research relived a high accuracy level of detected vehicles as well as, yield minimal percentage errors when subjected to mean absolute percentage error computations. Also, the results of the research fell into the accepted zone of the GEH (Goffrey E. Havers) statistics.
Extreme Phenotype Sampling and Next Generation Sequencing to Identify Genetic Variants Associated with Tacrolimus in African American Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Mohamed Moataz , Guo Bin , Wu Baolin , Schladt David , Muthusamy Amutha , Guan Weihua , Abrahante Juan , Onyeaghala Guillaume , Saqr Abdelrahman , Pankratz Nathan , Agarwal Gaurav , Mannon Roslyn , Matas Arthur , Oetting William , Remmel Rory , Israni Ajay , Jacobson Pamala , Dorr Casey
Published: March 2024

African American (AA) kidney transplant recipients (KTRs) have poor outcomes, which may in-part be due to tacrolimus (TAC) sub-optimal immunosuppression. We previously determined the common genetic regulators of TAC pharmacokinetics in AAs which were CYP3A5 *3, *6, and *7. To identify low-frequency variants that impact TAC pharmacokinetics, we used extreme phenotype sampling and compared individuals with extreme high (n=58) and low (n=60) TAC troughs (N=515 AA KTRs). Targeted next generation sequencing was conducted in these two groups. Median TAC troughs in the high group were 7.7 ng/ml compared with 6.3 ng/ml in the low group, despite lower daily doses of 5 versus 12mg, respectively. Of 34,542 identified variants across 99 genes, 1,406 variants were suggestively associated with TAC troughs in univariate models (p-value <0.05), however none were significant after multiple testing correction. We suggest future studies investigate additional sources of TAC pharmacokinetic variability such as drug-drug-gene interactions and pharmacomicrobiome.
Quantum-Resilient Cryptographic Primitives: An Innovative Modular Hash Learning Algorithm to Enhanced Security in the Quantum Era
Authors: SINGH MANRAJ , Singh Sunil K. , Kumar Sudhakar , Preet Mehak , Arya Varsha , Gupta Brij B
Published: March 2024

In the era of rapid advancements in quantum computing, classical cryptographic primitives are facing unprecedented security challenges. Shor's algorithm, a powerful quantum tool, poses a significant threat to existing hash functions, raising concerns about data integrity and confidentiality. In response to these emerging threats, the paper introduces a novel Quantum-Resistant Hash Algorithm (QRHA) named the 'Modular Hash Learning Algorithm (MHLA).' MHLA has been meticulously designed with a strong focus on fundamental principles of quantum resistance and incorporates advanced mathematical and algorithmic techniques to enhance its security. This paper presents a comprehensive examination of MHLA's resistance to both classical and quantum attacks, with a particular emphasis on Shor's algorithm. Our research demonstrates that MHLA offers improved security in the context of the quantum era, ensuring data confidentiality and integrity. Moreover, MHLA boasts an efficient algorithmic complexity with a time complexity of $O(m \cdot n \cdot k)$ for the matrix-vector product. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts to fortify cryptographic systems against the evolving landscape of quantum computing.
Thermal Stress Accommodation in Sodium/Inconel 718 Heat Pipes
Authors: Hu Longfei , LI Bo , Luo Xiaoguang , Chen Siyuan , Yu Jijun , Ai Bangcheng , Zhang Mohan
Published: March 2024

In this study, sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipes with and without topological capillary were designed and fabricated in China Academy of Aerospace Aerodynamics. Then their startup properties were investigated systematically. It was found that startup temperature of sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipes was 420oC. During startup tests, all the heat pipes startup successfully. Topological capillary did not affect startup properties of sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipes. After tests, all the heat pipes still kept their integrity. Thermal deformation was not observed. A further thermal stress simulation indicated that topological capillary could accommodate thermal stresses in sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipes. With topological capillary addition, thermal stresses in the heat pipes decreased by about 21%. Moreover, the bended sodium/Inconel 718 heat pipe could startup successfully in an anti-gravity condition, being instructive for development of flexible and anti-gravity high temperature heat pipes.
Power of Ensemble Techniques for Brain Age Prediction Using Machine Learning Models
Authors: Ravi V , Baghel Himanshu Singh , Chinamsetty Nainika , Prathap Varun , Reka S. Sofana
Published: March 2024

Aging has a profound impact on brain structure and function, resulting in cognitive decline and an increased susceptibility to neurodegenerative diseases. The brain age gap is defined as the difference between an individual's estimated brain age and their actual age, which is considered a potential marker of overall brain health and may indicate structural abnormalities. Considering this work, machine learning models are used to estimate the brain age based on brain imaging data from four prominent repositories namely IXI dataset, Calgary Campinas, Sparse Linear Method, and Sign Agnostic Learning with Derivatives respectively This work is done based on five regression models such as XGBoost (Extreme Gradient Boosting), Support Vector Regression (SVR), Gradient Boosting Regression (GBR), Random Forest Regression (RFR), and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) regression, and also considering ensemble models such as Stacking, Bagging, and Boosting. The dataset contains T1-weighted Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) images from over 1800 patients, and approximately 143 features were extracted using the reliable tool FreeSurfer (6.0). In this study, a major analysis was performed using grid search and cross-validation to train the models and optimize the hyperparameters to prevent overfitting. The results exhibit that a stacked ensemble model of SVR and XGBoost outperformed the other models, with a mean absolute error (MAE) of 4.65 and R2 value of 0.92 on the training dataset while 6.62 and 0.85 on the test set respectively. The validation results indicated that regression models and ensemble techniques for brain age prediction provide a powerful combination of interpretability, accuracy, and robustness.
Application and mechanism of a novel flocculation reagent for mechanical dewatering: A case study on slurry separation in a large-diameter slurry shield
Authors: Zhang Jian , Ren Guoping , Feng Tugen , Liang Yu , Yin Yihao
Published: March 2024

A novel C-type flocculation reagent was developed to address the high water content of sludge and the environmental pollution caused by wastewater discharge during the mechanical dewatering of the Zhanjiang Bay undersea tunnel. Microscopic parameters, such as granularity and zeta potential, were analyzed to elucidate the mechanism of flocculation and dewatering in C-type reagents. The applicability of the C-type reagent was further validated in a field test and compared to that of the conventional reagent. The results showed that the C-type reagent reduced the water content of the sludge by approximately 20% and decreased the supernatant turbidity by approximately 79%. The C-type reagent demonstrated enhanced bridging and charge neutralization activities, thereby facilitating the aggregation of fine particles (<10 μm) into larger particles (>50 μm), ultimately enhancing the efficiency of flocculation. The C-type reagent can also facilitate the formation of a calcium drainage channel skeleton with enhanced water permeability and reduce slurry viscosity to improve the efficiency of mechanical dewatering. These effects enhanced the pore size distribution of the slurry, resulting in a range of 346 to 8656 nm, which was approximately 15% to 41% greater than the overall pore size of the original slurry. The on-site utilization of 0.5% C-type reagent, compared to the original reagent, can enhance the solid content of the sludge by 35.7%, resulting in a 20% reduction in cost. Moreover, it meets the required sewage indicators, such as pH, and thus qualifies for direct discharge. The findings of this study offer valuable insights for the selection of environmentally friendly and efficient reagents in the context of the combined flocculation-mechanical dewatering method.
An Indian epidemiological overview of ocular emergencies of the year 2022
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Debapriya , Mukherjee Shreyasi , Francis Gijo , Mukherjee Harinath
Published: March 2024

Aim and Objective: This study aimed to provide an epidemiological overview of ocular emergencies that occurred in India in the year 2022. The study analyzed the demographic, clinical, and etiological characteristics of patients who presented with ocular emergencies to various eye care facilities across the country. The study also evaluated the outcomes and complications of ocular emergencies and identified the risk factors and preventive measures for reducing their incidence and severity. Method In this retrospective study, we extracted data from the NPCBVI online portal Niramaya and calculated the frequency, percentage, and incidence rates of ocular emergencies according to various demographic and geographic variables. Results In India, more males (55.9%) than females (44.1%) were blind. The age group with the highest frequency of blindness was 15–49 years (40%), followed by 50–69 years (30%), ≥ 70 years (20%) and < 15 years (10%). Most of the blind people lived in rural areas (70%), while only 30% lived in urban areas. The states/UTs with the highest frequency of blindness were Uttar Pradesh (12.3%), Maharashtra (10.5%), Bihar (8.7%), West Bengal (7.4%) and Madhya Pradesh (6.8%). The remaining states/UTs accounted for 54.3% of the blind population. The most common causes of blindness were trauma (32.8%), infection/inflammation (34.5%) and glaucoma (24.7%). Other causes make up 8% of the total. Conclusion We concluded that ocular emergencies are a significant public health problem in India, and additional research is needed to understand their epidemiology and management.
No significant clinical value by adding on Jin-gu-lian Capsule in rheumatoid arthritis therapy: a real world study
Authors: Chen Yong , He Mang , Zhao Si-Jin , Chen Yan-Juan , Zhang Yong-Qiao , Chen Xiao-Long , Yang Chuan-Jie , Luo Yu-Zhuo , Xing Zhou-Xiong , Tian Mei
Published: March 2024

Objective
To investigate the clinical value of adding on Jin-gu-lian Capsule (JGL) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treatment on disease activity and quality of life (QoL) by a real world study (RWS).
Methods
A RWS was conducted to compare the inflammatory markers including IgM-RF, ESR and CRP between RA patients treated with western medicine only (reference group) and adding on JGL (study group) for one year of following up. The data was acquired from hospital information system (HIS). Telephone call based following up on QoL (SF-36), and accompanied symptoms including gastrointestinal complaints, attack of pneumonia ect. Finally, the anti-rheumatic drugs in both groups were also compared. And this RWS was further validated its feasibility by ruining the flow on hydroxychloroquine (HCQ).
Results
The study group failed to show better controlling effect on inflammatory markers, especially the CRP levels indicated it may inferior to the reference group. At the ending point, no significant differences between the two groups on QoL and accompanied symptoms. The patients in study group might need more kinds of anti-rheumatic drugs to fill the treatment insufficiency, and the application ratio of NSAIDs was significantly higher than the reference group. By ruining this research flow on HCQ, the positive results of controlling disease activity and reducing NSAIDs application was discovered, which prove the feasibility of the RWS.
Conclusions
No significant clinical benefit by adding on JGL in rheumatoid arthritis therapy was observed.
Soil-transmitted helminth (STH) infections in the Wolaita zone in Southern Ethiopia. Mid-stage evaluation of the Geshiyaro project and progress towards the interruption of transmission
Authors: Mengistu Birhan , Liyew Ewnetu Firdawek , Chernet Melkie , Tasew Geremew , Maddren Rosie , Collyer Benjamin , Anjulo Ufaysa , Tamiru Adugna , Forbes Kathryn , Mehari Zelalem , Deribe Kebede , Yadeta Teshale , Salasibew Mihretab , Tollera Getachew , Anderson Roy
Published: March 2024

Background
This paper documents changes in the prevalence and intensity of Soil-Transmitted helminths
(STH) infections in the Geshiyaro project in the Woliata zone of Southern Ethiopia.
Method
The Geshiyaro project comprises three intervention arms. Arm 1 is sub-divided into “Arm 1 pilot” (one district), and Arm 1 (four other districts), both receiving integrated community-wide MDA with intensive WaSH interventions. Arm 2 involves 18 districts with community-wide MDA interventions plus the existing government- led “One-WaSH” programme, while Arm 3 serves as a control with school-based MDA interventions plus the existing government-led “One-WaSH” programme in three districts. A total of 45 longitudinal parasitological surveillance sentinel sites are being used across all three intervention arms to monitor STH prevalence. From each of the 45 sentinel sites, 150 individuals were randomly selected, stratified by age and gender. T-tests and ANOVA were employed to compare infection prevalence and intensity across the three study arms.
Results
The prevalence of STH decreased significantly 34.5% (30.6%, 38.5) in 2019 to 10.6% (8.3%, 13.4%) in 2022/2023 (df=1, p<0.0001) in Arm 1 pilot, from 27.4% (25.2%, 29.7%) in 2020 to 5.5% (4.4%, 6.7%) in 2023 (df=1, p<0.0001) in Arm 1, from 23% (21.3%, 24.8%) in 2020 to 4.5% (3.7%, 5.3%) in 2023 (df=1, p<0.001) in Arm 2, from 49.6% (47.4%, 51.7%) in 2021 to 26.1% in 2023 (df=1, p<0.0001) in Arm 3. The relative reduction in the prevalence of any STH was the highest in the Arms employing community wide MDA; namely, Arm 2, with a decrease of 82.5% (79.3%, 84.2%), followed by Arm 1 with a reduction of 80.1% (75.3%, 84.6%), then Arm 1 pilot with a decrease of 69.4% (60.1%. 76.6%). Arm 3 employing school-based MDA had the lowest decrease with a reduction of 46.9% (43.6%, 51%). The mean intensity of infection (based on Kato Katz egg count measures) for Ascarisspecies which was the dominant STH species present in the study area decreased significantly in Arms 1 and 2, but only slightly in Arm 3. The prevalence of hookworm and Trichuris infections were found to be relatively small in all arms and decreased significantly.
Conclusion
The reduction in prevalence and intensity in Arms 1 and 2 revealed steady progress towards transmission interruption based on community-wide MDA intervention but additional efforts are required to achieve a 2% prevalence threshold by qPCR.
Clinical characteristics and mortality outcomes associated with subtypes of steatotic liver disease in the United States
Authors: Zhang Pengwei , Yang Sijia , Yu Peipei , Zeng Yijun , Ye Chunhong , Wang Panpan , Wang Mingwei , Li Li , Dong Xianhui
Published: March 2024

Background In 2023, experts from the European and American regions proposed the concepts of steatotic liver disease (SLD) and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). MASLD was proposed as a replacement for NAFLD. We compared the long-term outcomes of patients with various subtypes of SLD and participants with the various combinations of MASLD and NAFLD definitions.
Methods We conducted a retrospective study using the NHANESIII database. Cox proportional risk models were used to study the all-cause mortality and mortality from specific causes of patients with subtypes of SLD, MASLD, and NAFLD.
Results During a follow-up period of 31 years (median 25 years), the adjusted risks of all-cause death for patients with MASLD was 1.14 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.29; P=0.04) vs. the non-SLD group. There was a high level of consistency between MASLD and NAFLD (Cohen’s kappa coefficient of 0.62545 ± 0.0175). Advanced fibrosis was the most serious risk factor for all-cause mortality in MASLD, and high C-reactive protein concentration was the most serious risk factor for all-cause mortality in NAFLD, followed by type 2 diabetes.
Conclusions MASLD is associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality, which is not related to the demographics or metabolic characteristics of patients.Our research findings further support that MASLD is a pathological disease related to liver disease itself. Therefore, redefining NAFLD as metabolic dysfunction related fatty liver disease (MAFLD) may help improve our understanding of predictive factors that increase the risk of death.
Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with toxoplasmosis and hydatidosis among the butchers of Tabriz City, the northwest of Iran
Authors: Amiri Zahra , Khademvatan Shahram , Kazemi Tohid , Yousefi Elham
Published: March 2024

Background: Occupation plays an important role in the spread of infectious diseases in humans. Toxoplasmosis and hydatidosis are world-wide diseases with different routes of transmission. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of toxoplasmosis and hydatidosis and risk factors associated with these diseases among the butchers of Tabriz City, the northwest of Iran.
Methods: In this case-control study conducted in Tabriz city in 2023, 250 serum samples were collected from butchers (n = 125) and outpatients referred to Imam Reza Hospital (n = 125) and considered as the case and control groups, respectively. The ELISA test was used to identify IgG and IgM antibodies against toxoplasmosis and IgG antibodies against hydatidosis. The results were analyzed by descriptive statistics tests using SPSS v. 16 software.
Results: The results indicated that 66/125 (52.8%) cases and 40/125 controls (32%) were positive for toxoplasmosis IgG antibody. Also, 5/125 (4%) and 1/125 (0.8%) were positive for toxoplasmosis IgM antibody in the case and control groups, respectively. In addition, 10/125 people (8%) were positive for anti-hydatidosis IgG antibody in the case group, while no positive cases were found in the control group. The main risk factors for toxoplasmosis were age, education level, and work experience, these factors for hydatidosis included age and education level.
Conclusions: Our results suggest the high prevalence of toxoplasmosis and hydatidosis IgG antibodies in butchers of Tabriz, which required special attention and basic measures.
Demonstration of regularity of bifurcation in chaotic laser diode
Authors: Kim Chol-Hyon , Kim Myong-Il , Ho Kwang-Myong
Published: March 2024

The behavior of bifurcation and chaos in a laser diode subject with delayed optical feedback is very chaotic and unpredictable. We have theoretically and experimentally demonstrated an extremely significant and useful rule of the growth of bifurcation and chaos displayed in the bifurcation diagram with the injection current. Such a significant rule is attributed to the resonance between the relaxation oscillation frequency and the external cavity frequency. This regularity can provide a principle for the suppression and control of bifurcation and chaos in semiconductor lasers with delayed optical feedback.
Dry biases in land water storage and excessive soil moisture limitation in CMIP6 models
Authors: Giardina Francesco , Padrón Ryan S. , Stocker Benjamin D. , Schumacher Dominik L. , Seneviratne Sonia I.
Published: March 2024

Accurate representation of plant water availability is crucial for climate modeling, due to its significant role in land-atmosphere interactions. Our study focuses on water storage dynamics and analyzes how soil moisture limitation is represented in Earth System Model (ESM) simulations of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project phase 6 (CMIP6). We first quantify the long-term maximum annual depletion in water storage, contrasting model results with estimates based on satellite observations of terrestrial water storage from the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE), as well as remotely sensed estimates of the water balance. Our analysis shows that CMIP6 models mostly underestimate the maximum annual soil moisture depletion, especially in the Amazon region. We further assess the frequency of soil moisture limitation in CMIP6 simulations against observations from solar-induced fluorescence (SIF) and GRACE, finding that ESMs generally overestimate this frequency. We obtain consistent results when comparing models to ground observations at 128 sites from the FLUXNET2015 dataset. Our study highlights the importance of improving the representation of plant water availability and land-atmosphere interactions in Earth System Models. Implementation of new model features could have large implications in predicting future climate on land.