bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comprehensive Infodemiology Analysis on Google Users' Health Interests in Information Disorders
Authors: Cruvinel Thiago , Jorge Olívia Santana , Lotto Matheus , Nogueira Bruna , Jucá Ana Maria , Cruvinel Agnes
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to determine the health interests of Google users regarding information disorders. Using Google Trends, relative search volumes (RSVs) that disclosed topics such as 'disinformation,' 'fake news,' 'misinformation,' and 'conspiracy theory' were collected in all and health categories, from January 2004 to March 2023. The data were analyzed using 12-month ARIMA forecasting models, qualitative analysis of health-related queries, and comparisons of terminologies' frequencies to dichotomized categories of mean years of schooling, internet penetration, health relationship, and mean RSV. The information-seeking behavior regarding the terminologies of information disorders remained low over time, indicating an association with the education levels and internet penetration of countries. This was particularly evident for terms such as 'disinformation' and 'misinformation,' which are more commonly used in academic environments. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in Google users' interest in these phenomena, driven by concerns about the coronavirus and vaccines. These findings underscore the importance of implementing media education, particularly in schools as a long-term measure, to promote a better understanding of correct concepts among the population and encourage seeking knowledge from different sources. Additionally, international entities should monitor and regulate the emergence and spread of new popular terminologies related to information disorders.
Performance and health status in preweaning semi-indoor Holstein calves wearing calf jackets during winter months
Authors: Çam Mustafa , Arslan Emre , Kaya Zahit Kutalmış , İnal Şeref
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether jacket wearing by semi-indoor Holstein calves affected performance, body measurements and health status in the preweaning period throughout the winter months. A total of one hundred calves were allocated into two treatment groups (control and jacket) in terms of their weights and sex. The calves throughout the study period were raised at individual calf hutches in a semi-open barn. All calves and the consumed concentrate intakes were weighed every 28 days to determine body weight (BW), daily growth rate (ADG), total and daily feed consumption (TFC, DFC). Incidence rate (IR) ratios were calculated from the records of daily health assessments. Calves in treatment group were jacketed from first to 45 days of age. The weaning process started gradually at 56 days of age and the calves were weaned on day 63. No significant effects of wearing jackets in terms of body measurements and performance. The respiratory diseases IR was 1.15 times higher in calves without jackets, which means that calf health was positively affected by wearing jackets. The improved health status of the treatment group showed that wearing jackets may protect calves from adverse effects of cold stress. There is a need for more comprehensive studies about the effect of calf jackets in early periods of preweaning, especially in calves in outdoor hutches.
High Psychopathic Trait Individuals’ Decisions to Empathize are Influenced by Power Dynamics
Authors: Stewart Kirsten , Shane Matthew
Published: March 2024

The lack of empathy associated with heightened psychopathic traits is commonly attributed to fundamental emotional and/or cognitive deficits. However, recent studies showing that psychopathic individuals are capable of normative empathy in certain contexts suggest their reduced empathy may instead reflect reduced motivation to empathize. To further evaluate these possibilities,158 university students completed self-report measures of psychopathic traits and motivations to empathize and performed an Empathic Choice Task which presented various social situations and asked them to freely choose to either empathize virtuously (for the target’s benefit), empathize non-virtuously (for their own benefit), or merely observe. Results indicated that psychopathic traits were unrelated to the overall frequency of empathic choices. However, post-hoc analyses indicated that the motivations underlying these choices varied as a function of situational power dynamics, and this was increasingly so for individuals higher in psychopathic traits. Specifically, psychopathic traits were positively correlated with virtuous empathy when targets were depicted in positions of power over the participant, but positively related to non-virtuous empathy when they were depicted in positions of power over the target. These results support motivational theories of psychopathy and highlight the strategic sensitivity of high psychopathic trait individuals to complex socio-contextual dynamics.
Eulerian Parameter Inference: A Probabilistic Change of Variables for Model-Based Inference with High-Variability Data Sets
Authors: Wagner Vincent , Castellaz Benjamin , Kaiser Lars , Höpfl Sebastian , Radde Nicole
Published: March 2024

Advances in measurement technology have led to the generation of increasingly large data sets across various scientific fields. Data that capture the variability of the underlying system or process, such as single-cell or imaging data, are particularly interesting. However, calibrating computational models to explain this type of data remains challenging.
We interpret the model calibration as a Stochastic Inverse Problem (SIP), where the measurements are interpreted as probabilistic samples. Our new SIP solution approach, Eulerian Parameter Inference (EPI), only requires data with high variability and a deterministic simulation model that maps model parameters to simulation results. EPI solves the SIP through a change of variables. This computationally efficient approach allows for direct and point-wise evaluation of parameter densities without ever inverting the simulation model. The resulting parameter distribution captures data variability completely, enabling full data reconstruction. Further, estimating multivariate model parameters can bereduced to a series of one-dimensional problems under the assumption of stochasticallyindependent parameters. Particularly for complex simulation models andinvolved problems, this property is vital.
With EPI, we explain 1) annual average temperature data of 3,168 weather stations around the world with an arithmetic model, 2) German district-specific COVID-19 infection data through a differential equation model, and 3) artificial data generated via a partial differential equation model with independent parameters. With a robust mathematical foundation and an easily accessible Python package, we provide a versatile solution framework for integrating data with high variability into simulation models that promotes application to various research questions.
Male Engagement in Antenatal Care and Associated Factors among Married Men with Wives Who Recently Gave Birth in Debretabor Town, North West Ethiopia
Authors: Hailemeskel Solomon , Muhabaw Tirukelem , Lambebo Abera
Published: March 2024

Background: Globally, maternal mortality remains a critical issue, with male involvement during antenatal care (ANC) recognized as pivotal in reducing maternal deaths. Limited evidence on male involvement exists in low and middle-income countries, including Ethiopia. This study aimed to assess male involvement during antenatal care and associated factors among married men whose wives gave birth within the last 6 months in Debretabor town, North West Ethiopia in 2023.
Objective:Evaluate the level of male involvement during antenatal care and identify associated factors in the specified study area.
Methods:A community-based cross-sectional study involved 404 married men, whose wives had given birth within the past 6 months in Debretabor town. Data were collected using face-to-face interviews, entered into EpiData version 4.6, and analyzed using SPSS version 25. Logistic regression analyses determined associations.
Results:Male involvement during antenatal care in the study area was 46.8% (CI: 41.6, 51.5). Factors influencing involvement included men's attitude (AOR=2.365), lack of male invitation to the examination room (AOR=0.370), couples' living status (AOR=4.461), men with secondary education (AOR=4.052), men with diploma and above (AOR=4.276), and complications during pregnancy (AOR=6.976).
Conclusion and Recommendation: The observed low level of male involvement underscores the need for targeted interventions. Stakeholders should promote male participation through counseling, community mobilization, and awareness campaigns.
Penalization of Galton Watson trees with marked vertices
Authors: Abraham Romain , Boulal Sonia , Debs Pierre
Published: March 2024

We consider a Galton-Watson tree where each node is marked independently of each others with a probability depending on its out-degree. Using a penalization method, we exhibit new martingales where the number of marks up to level $n-1$ appears. Then, we use these martingales to define new probability measures via a Girsanov transformation and describe the distribution of the random trees under these new probabilities.
Reproductive inefficiency and increased behavioral variation are associated with large group size in the orchid bee, Euglossa dilemma
Authors: Saleh Nicholas , Delva Jaelle , Ramírez Santiago R. , Kapheim Karen M. , Chouvenc Thomas
Published: March 2024

Orchid bees are the only corbiculate bee lineage that is not obligately eusocial. However, multiple species of orchid bee show facultative sociality, with reproductive division of labor and a social hierarchy effectively enforced by oophagy. Orchid bee species differ in the degree of reproductive skew in social groups, as well as the rigidity of social roles. In the orchid bee Euglossa dilemma, previous observation of social groups of two or three individuals found that reproductive skew was complete, with one clear dominant individual that ate and replaced each subordinate laid egg. Here, we compare patterns of egg laying and egg-replacement between typical social nests of 2–3 individuals and larger social nests of 4–5 individuals. We find a striking difference in the reproductive behavior of colonies of varying group size; larger nests exhibit more reproductive inefficiency and conflict over the dominant social position, characterized by repeated oophagy and slower egg replacement. Our findings are consistent with the hypothesis that group size in E. dilemma may be limited by the ability of dominant bees to keep up with egg replacement. We discuss the possible causes and consequences of observed behavioral variation and its implications for understanding social behavior in orchid bees.
Factors Associated with Aggression: A Nationwide Population- based Survey
Authors: Jo Bokyung , Lim Yeonjung , Kim Eunseo , Cho Juhee , Kang Danbee
Published: March 2024

Recent reports have brought to our attention a growing number of incidents involving impulsive aggression among individuals. These alarming statistics highlight the urgent need to investigate and address the factors contributing to aggression. Previous research has predominantly focused on aggression within specific age groups, such as children, adolescents, or college students, making it difficult to pinpoint the primary factors within each age group. The primary objective of this study is to bridge this gap by gaining a comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing aggression across different age groups in physical, psychological, and social domains.
This study comprehensively investigated demographic, physical, psychological, and social factors associated with aggression in the general Korean population. A national cross-sectional survey was conducted from December 2021 to January 2022, and representative participants aged 18–85 years from all 17 South Korean provinces were recruited. Higher aggression was defined as the highest 10 percentiles of the aggression score measured using the Aggression Questionnaire. The Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) depression, anxiety, physical function, and pain interference were used to measure the psychological and physical traits of the participants. We conducted multivariable logistic regression analyses to identify the factors associated with aggression.
In total, 2,699 participants completed the survey, with a mean aggression score of 52.20. In terms of demographic factors, younger age (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] 12.61; 95% CI 1.18-4.02) was associated with increased aggression. Furthermore, aggression was associated with more severe limited physical function (aPR 2.06; 95% CI 1.35-2.78), pain interference (aPR 2.24; 95% CI 1.60-2.88), and a higher level of anxiety (aPR 2.24; 95% CI 1.57-2.89). Especially when compared to those with the lowest levels of depression, participants with moderate and severe depression had a higher risk of aggression (aPR 2.01; 95% CI 1.38-2.63).
In conclusion, young age, severe decline in physical function, pain interference, depression, and anxiety were identified as risk factors for aggression.
Comparative proteomic expression profiling associations with resistance to onion-Fusarium basal rot
Authors: Poursakhi SaeidReza , Asadi-Gharneh Hossein Ali , Esfahani Mehdi Nasr , abbasi Zahra , Khankahdani Hamed Hassanzadeh
Published: March 2024

Fusarium basal rot (FBR) is a serious disease of onion that causes significant losses globally. There are several control measures, of which planting of resistant FBR-cultivars is the most advantageous control option. Thus, to elucidate the involving mechanisms to FBR infection, we consequently carried out quantification changes in antioxidant enzymes activity including ROS (reactive oxygen species); superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POX), and catalase (CAT) in two resistant onion genotypes ‘Saba’ and ‘Saba – HS’; and susceptible ‘Savannah Sweet’ and ‘Golden eye’ following inoculation with FBR agent. As a complimentary to the related antioxidant enzymes, we also characterized the critical transcription factors (TFs); R1, R5 and RGA29 marker genes using qRT-PCR involved in endowing resistance at three time course/week post inoculation (wpi). Additionally, we analyzed the changes in biomass growth parameters (BGPs) accordingly. The results showed that the lowest disease severity percentage (DSP) was in resistant ‘Saba’ and ‘Saba – HS’ (6.7 and 4.7 %), and the highest ones in susceptible ‘Savannah Sweet’ and ‘Golden eye’ (88.9 and 89.6%), respectively. There was also a significant increase in CAT, POX, and SOD activities in resistant genotypes. The highest CAT activity was recorded in resistant ‘Saba’- 4.91, and Saba-HS - 3.75 fold, followed by the same trend relatively for POX (‘Saba’- 3.53 and ‘Saba-HS’- 2.35 fold); and SOD (‘Saba’ 14.46 -fold and ‘Saba-HS’ 12.95 –fold) significantly. It was also found that FOC could up-regulate the defense marker genes; R1, PR5, and RGA29 expression in resistant '‘Saba’' and ‘Saba’-HS ranging from 1.23 to 5.01-fold. The highest regulation was in PR5-5.01 fold followed by R1-4.78; and RGA29-3.83-fold, respectively. In addition, BGPs displayed almost similar trends as was in enzyme and gene expression accordingly. These findings lead to introduction of newly FBR-resistant onion genotypes, and also can be implicated in integrated pest management planning programs against FBR disease. Cumulatively, the proteomic-transcriptomic-data provide novel-insights for improving onion-breeding programs against FBR disease.
Tertiary lymphoid structure was a predictor of favorable prognosis in muscle-invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Teng Xiaodong , Chen Zhen , Bai Yanfeng , Cao Hui , Zhang Jing , Xu Liming , Liu Kaihua , Shi Yuqian , Shao Yang
Published: March 2024

Background: Tertiary lymphoid structure (TLS) has been reported to be associated with prognosis and immunotherapy in certain cancers. In this study, we aimed to explore the prognostic role of TLS in Muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC), and to analyze the clinicopathological and molecular factors affecting the formation of TLS.
Methods: Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the expression of TLS, CD8+ T cells, B cells, and plasma cells in 119 MIBC cases, of which 80 cases were tested by next generation sequencing (NGS) for analysising the differences in gene alterations between TLS-negative and TLS-positive.
Results:TLSs were present in 52.1% of MIBC cases. Patients with TLS had lower T and TNM stages, and had longer overall survival (OS) than patients without TLS. Multivariate analysis showed that TLS was an independent prognostic factor. The densities of B cells, CD8+ T cells, and plasma cells in tumors were significantly correlated with TLS, but in the cases with low density B cells, high density CD8+ T cells or high density plasma cells, differences in OS between the tumors with TLS and without TLS were not significant. Compared with TLS-negative tumors, TLS-positive tumors had lower frequency of TP53mutations and higher frequencies of FAT1, CDKN1A mutations. Tumor mutational burden (TMB)was not significantly different between the two groups, but was significantly associated with TLS in TP53 wild-type tumors.
Conclusions:TLS was an independent predictor of favorableprognosis in MIBC, and mainly played antitumor role effect through B cells. TP53mutations could inhibit the formation of TLS.
Failure mechanism of cement plug-formation interface under the thermo- mechanical coupling effect in old wellbore for salt cavern gas storage
Authors: Wang Jiangshuai , Cai chuchu , Fu Pan , Wang Hongjie , Yu Guijian , Deng Song , Tang Zheng
Published: March 2024

The effective sealing of old wells previously used for brine extraction is a key task for the transformation of salt caverns into gas storage tanks and their safe and long-term operation. The essence of the work is to explore the failure problem of the cement plug formation interface in the sealing section. In this paper, a three-dimensional finite element model of cement plug-formation was developed under the influence of mechanical and thermal coupling. This model was used to clarify the enhancement mechanism of thermal effect on the in-situ bonding of the interface. And, the effects of gas storage operation parameters, sealing section formation characteristics, and cement plug body parameters on the ultimate stripping length of the cement plug were studied. Moreover, the ultimate peel failure length of the interface under the coupling effect of multiple factors was determined. The research results indicate that under the influence of temperature and pressure conditions, the formation undergoes a phenomenon of radial shrinkage, increasing the contact stress between the cement plug and the formation, resulting in a denser cementation between the cement plug and the formation interface, thereby reducing the detachment limit.
Evolution of electrical resistance of graphite foils during spark plasma sintering.
Authors: Mwaro William B. , Mphahlele Mahlatse R. , Walker Mark
Published: March 2024

The progression of the electrical resistance of graphite foils during spark plasma sintering process (SPS) was investigated at constant temperature and pressure. The study applied various set-ups of the SPS device, and the electrical data used for the evaluation of electrical resistance (heating power and current) was obtained from the SPS apparatus in real-time. The contact resistance and resistance due to graphite foil/s was evaluated by subtracting the resistance of the single punch set-up from the set-up of two punches in direct contact and the set-ups with various graphite foils. The results showed that during the initial stages of sintering, set-up resistance increases with time and that, overall, set-up resistance increases with number of graphite foils. Both contact resistance and resistance due to graphite foils was found to decrease with sintering time. In contrast to previous conceptions, the electrical resistance of graphite foils changes in response to sintering conditions during the SPS process.
Study on the balance and gait characteristics of patients with generalized joint hypermobility in high- altitude areas using wearable devices
Authors: Liu mingwei , Guo Luqi , Lin Jinpeng , Cai Yuepeng , Huang Xiaofan , Wu Yue , Zhang Yu , Wang Shaobai
Published: March 2024

PURPOSE
To explore the balance and gait function characteristics of Generalized Joint Hypermobility (GJH) patients in high-altitude environments.
METHODS
In this study, 61 university students (GJH: 28, healthy: 33) were recruited in Linzhi City, Tibet Autonomous Region (TAR). An intelligent rehabilitation assessment and training system (Riablo™) was used to assess the static balance with eyes opened and closed, and gait function with flat walking of the two groups of subjects.
RESULTS
Compared with healthy subjects, GJH subjects showed significantly impaired balance, reflected by increased distance of center of pressure position from the ideal center of gravity (SWAY) and amplitude of center of pressure sagittal plane displacements (RMS). Gait velocity, stride length, and swing stance of gait cycle were significantly smaller compared to the healthy subjects. A significant increasement was found for flat-foot of gait cycle compared to the control subjects.
CONCLUSION
The current study demonstrated that patients with GJH in high-altitude environments exhibit impairments in balance and gait using wearable devices, providing a foundation for training and prevention of GJH in high-altitude environments. At the same time, it also provides a reference for joint detection methods in high-altitude environments.
Trial registration
Controlled Trials No.102772023RT133, Registered 13 October 2023
Construction and validation of a prognostic prediction model for hepatectomy of hepatocellular carcinoma by preoperative fibrinogen to prealbumin ratio（FPR）
Authors: Ling Yuan , Yu Ze-Yan , Zhao Yuan-Quan , Wang Xiao-Bo , Wu Fei-Xiang , Lu Shao-Long , Chen Jie
Published: March 2024

Purpose
To enhance the prognostic prediction of patients following hepatectomy, our study aimed to investigate potential predictors of postoperative prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients and develop a nomogram model capable of effectively predicting their postoperative prognosis
Methods
Data from 1056 HCC patients who underwent hepatectomy from January 2014 to 2018 in December were retrospectively studied. The preoperative fibrinogen and prealbumin results were collected from all patients, and the preoperative fibrinogen to prealbumin ratio(FPR)was calculated. The optimal cutoff value method was used to differentiate between the high and low FPR groups, and the nomogram prognostic model of the patients was constructed by combining with the results of the postoperative pathology examination and other results.
Results
According to the best cut-off value, the FPR groups were divided into high and low FPR groups with a cut-off value of 0.019, and the high FPR group was associated with poor prognosis of the patients. Barcelona (BCLC) stage, microvascular invasion (MVI), and pathologic grade were independent predictors after hepatectomy in patients with HCC. Combining FPR and, these factor variables to create a prognostic nomogram, the model was confirmed to have a good fit while showing good performance with C-indexes of 0.736 and 0.754 for the training and validation sets, respectively.
Conclusion
A novel and validated nomogram was constructed by FPR combined with tumor staging and postoperative pathology results for predicting the prognosis of HCC patients after hepatectomy.
Nest predatory behavior in the Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus): an overlooked predator in the Neotropical cities?
Authors: Camilotti¹ Vagner L.
Published: March 2024

Bird’s nest predation can have a significant impact on the diversity and structure of bird assemblages in urban ecosystems. Our understanding of this phenomenon in Neotropical cities, however, is still limited. The Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus), a common species in urban environments, is known to prey on various vertebrate species, yet there is little information on its predation of birds or their nests. Similar to other well-known nest predators in cities worldwide, the Great Kiskadee exhibits behavioral and ecological traits that suggest it may play an important role in nest predation. Nevertheless, its role in this context has yet to be explored. Through a case report of nest predation on the Purple-throated Euphonia (Euphonia chlorotica) in an urban setting and a review of its ecological and biological traits, this study explores the potential and possibly overlooked role of the Great Kiskadee as a significant nest predator in Neotropical cities.
Physical fitness in patients treated with maintenance dialysis: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Baptista Ana Carolina Pereira , Prado Wagner Luiz , Christofaro Diego Giulliano Destro , Torres Michael , Botero João Paulo
Published: March 2024

Background: Low physical fitness has been associated with deterioration in overall health outcomes, resulting in increased hospitalization, morbidity, and mortality in patients treated with maintenance dialysis. This study aimed to compare self-reported physical fitness between patients treated with maintenance dialysis and those without chronic kidney disease (CKD).
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, patients treated with maintenance dialysis (n=674) and individuals without CKD (control, n=518) self-reported physical fitness by responding to the International Fitness Scale (IFIS). Binary Logistic Regressions were adjusted for sex, age, schooling, diabetes, smoking, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and body max index.
Results: Patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis are more likely to self-report lower general PF (OR=2.03; 95% CI: 1.35 to 3.05; p = 0.001), cardiorespiratory fitness (OR=3.18; 95% CI: 2.27 to 4.46; p<0.001), strength (OR=2.51; 95 % CI: 1.71 to 3.68; p<0.001) and agility (OR=1.83; 95% CI: 1.26 to 2.64; p=0.001) than the control group. Patients undergoing chronic hemodialysis who self-reported higher levels of physical activity were 5.64 times more likely to self-report high overall physical fitness (OR=5.64, 95% CI: 1.93 to 16.45, p<0.002).
Conclusion: Patients treated with maintenance dialysis were twice as likely to self-report lower general physical fitness compared to individuals without kidney disease. Considering the consequences related to these factors, strategies to improve it, like initiatives related to the practice of physical exercises with this population, including strategically during hemodialysis, may be interesting.
Comparative Evaluation of Insulation Cotton Configuration on The Investment Casting Quality of Industrial Valve Parts
Authors: Chen Kao-Yi , Khoiruddin Sukhoiri , Lin Chieh-Fong , Ho Ming-Hsiu , Huang Cheng-Fu , Lee Sheng-Chan , Chan Chien-Wei , Mardiono Intan , Fuh Yiin-Kuen
Published: March 2024

This study contributed to the comparison of insulation cotton configurations for the investment casting quality of industrial valve parts. Due to the complexity, parts of industrial valve bodies are usually produced by casting. However, the investment casting production process has several problems, such as shrinkage porosity. Currently, the investment casting industry uses cotton configuration to solve the problem of shrinkage porosity. Therefore, this study compared three cotton installation treatments in the mould shell to determine the optimal use of cotton. There are three schemes of the type of cotton installation on the shell that will be observed, including the triangular insulation cotton area denoted as Case A installed 55mm and Case B installed 90mm cotton on the right and left sides, and Case C denoted with adding bracket arms on the upper side. In this study, we used RMM (Retained Melt Modulus) and the finite element model to analyze the shrinkage porosity's location and to monitor the porosity that occurred during the solidification process. The result showed that cotton could reduce shrinkage porosity by 3.30%, 1.95%, and 1.47% for Case A, Case B, and Case C, respectively. Therefore, the best alternative is to add the cotton and bracket arm on the upper side, which is the optimal strategy to prevent shrinkage porosity.
Clinical outcomes of aortic root repair using pericardial autograft for acute type A aortic dissection
Authors: Liu Chuang , Wang Yao , Ouyang Peigang , Sun Yangxue , Huang Lingchen , Sun Xiaogang , Qian Xiangyang , Yu Cuntao , Guo Hongwei
Published: March 2024

Background
For acute type A aortic dissection involving the aortic root with root diameter no more than 45mm, there are various aortic root repair techniques. In this study, a novel surgical technique using a pericardial autograft for aortic root repair was introduced. We described its surgical steps in detail and compare its clinical outcomes with direct suture technique.
Methods
Between July 2017 and August 2022, 95 consecutive patients with acute type A aortic dissection who underwent aortic root repair were enrolled, including aortic root repair using pericardial autograft (group A, n = 49) or direct suture (group B, n = 46). The patient’s clinical data were retrospectively analyzed, and a 5-year follow-up was conducted.
Results
The 30-day mortality, reoperation for hemostasis, postoperative new-onset renal failure requiring continuous renal replacement therapy, stroke, and paraplegia occurred in 3%, 4%, 11%, 5%, and 2% of the overall patients, respectively. There was no significant difference in the 30-day mortality and complication rate between the two groups. The 30-day mortality and reoperation for hemostasis marked the primary endpoint events. Logistic regression analysis indicated that there was a significant correlation between the primary endpoint events and surgical technique (odds ratio, 0.002; 95% confidence interval, 0-0.159; P = 0.026). The aortic valve insufficiency of the two groups were significantly improved after operation (group A, P < 0.001; group B, P < 0.001). During follow-up, there was no significant difference in short-term survival between the two groups after surgery (log-rank P = 0.75), and all patients were free from reoperation for aortic disease.
Conclusions
Patients who underwent aortic root repair using pericardial autograft tended to have reduced 30-day mortality and a lower risk of reoperation for hemostasis. Using pericardial autograft for aortic root repair is a safe and useful approach for patients with acute type A aortic dissection involving the aortic root.
Elucidating morphogenic and physiological traits of rice with nitrogen substitution through nano-nitrogen under salt stress conditions
Authors: Kumar Ashwani , Sheoran Parvender , Kumar Naresh , Devi Sunita , Kumar Arvind , Malik Kapil , Rani Manu , Bhardwaj Ajay Kumar , Mann Anita
Published: March 2024

Background
Sustainable crop production along with best nutrient use efficiency is the key indicator of smart agriculture. Under abiotic stress conditions, nutrient uptake and translocation are restricted affecting plant growth and yield. The combined effect of nano-nitrogen and salt stress are very limited. Recent developments in slow releasing, nano-fertilizers in agriculture, begins a new era for sustainable use and management of natural resources. The aim of the study was to explore whether substitution with nano-urea could mitigate the detrimental effects of salt stress on plant growth and development along with physiological traits.
Results
With the onset of nano-formulations, this study was designed to explore the potential of nano-nitrogen by replacing traditional urea applications in 33, 50 and 60% doses on rice plant growth and development. Further, the strategic substitutions were compared in saline and sodic soils along with normal soils to dissect the beneficial response of nano-N in two rice varieties under saline stress of ECe ~ 6.0 dSm− 1 and sodic stress of pH ~ 9.1. With saline and sodic stresses, plant RWC decreased by 10.33% and total chlorophyll content by 1.32–1.52%, gas exchange attributes by 10.42–38.8%, leaf area upto 29.9% and yield upto 3.92%, respectively. Leaf greenness (SPAD index) was significantly higher with Nano-N along with number of grains/panicle, crop growth rate and net assimilation rate. Results depicted superiority of nitrogen replacement through nano-N with 0.2–1.64% enhancement in growth traits, 0.93–1.85% in physiological traits, and 1.92% in yield over 100% recommended dose of urea on cumulative basis in rice. Between varieties, salt tolerant rice variety, CSR-10 performed better than Pusa 1121 in terms of morphological, physiological and yield traits under stress conditions and nitrogen substitutions.
Conclusions
Overall, our experimental findings depicted promising potential of nano-N for enhancing the physiological growth and yield under salt stress and also optimizing better yield in normal soils with 33% replacement of conventional urea.
Plume and wall temperature impact on the subsonic aft-body flow of a generic space launcher geometry
Authors: Kirchheck Daniel , Schumann Jan-Erik , Fertig Markus , Saile Dominik , Hannemann Volker , Eggers Thino , Gülhan Ali
Published: March 2024

Experimental and numerical simulation of launcher base flows is crucial for future launcher design. In experiments, the exhaust plume simulation is often limited to cold or slightly heated gases. In numerical simulations, multi-species reactive flow is often neglected due to limited resources. The impact of these simplifications on the relevant flow features compared to real flight scenarios needs to be characterized in order to enhance the design process. Experimental and numerical investigations were carried out in the frame of the SFB/TRR 40 Collaborative Research Centre in order to study the impact of plume and wall temperature on the base flow of a generic small-scale launcher configuration. Wind tunnel tests were performed in the Hot Plume Testing Facility (HPTF) at DLR Cologne, using subsonic ambient flow and pressurized air or hydrogen-oxygen-combustion as exhaust gases. The tests were numerically rebuilt using the DLR TAU code employing a scale-resolved IDDES approach, including thermal coupling and detailed chemistry. The paper combines the experimental and numerical findings from the SFB/TRR 40 base flow studies and highlights the most prominent influences on the mean flow field, the pressure field, the dynamic wake flow motion and the resulting aerodynamic forces on the nozzle. High-frequency pressure measurements, high-speed Schlieren recordings and time-resolved CFD results are evaluated using spectral and modal analysis of the one- and two-dimensional flow field data.
Diversity of sand flies and Leishmania parasites in an active cutaneous leishmaniasis transmission site in rural Guatemala, 2022
Authors: Lopez Yaimie , Casas-Sanchez Aitor , Arana Byron , Rizzo Nidia , Duran Erick , Padilla Norma , Vega Andrea De La , Bustamante Esteban , Acosta-Serrano Álvaro , Mendizabal-Cabrera Renata
Published: March 2024

Background
Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a parasitic vector borne disease endemic in 90 countries, including Guatemala. Despite the endemicity of the disease in the country, the most important factors that contribute to its transmission remain unknown. To address these knowledge gaps, we characterized the sand fly populations and Leishmania parasites circulating in patients and sand flies in an endemic community in Guatemala.
Methods
From March to August 2022, we visited the households of 23 patients recently diagnosed with CL to collect sand flies in three environments: indoors, outdoors in animal sheds and in the surrounding forest. The sand fly species were identified using end-point PCR targeting the cytochrome C gene followed by sequencing, and screened for Leishmania DNA by heat-shock protein 70 gene PCR and sequencing. Using the same methodology on lesion tissue smear material from patients, we identified the species of parasites causing infections in the community.
Results
We collected 93 sand flies (79% females) of at least five species, three of which have been previously associated with Leishmania transmission: Nyssomyia ylephiletor, Bichromomyia olmeca and Lutzomyia cruciata. The highly anthropophilic Ny. ylpehiletor, of which only females were captured, was the most common species (28%) and was primarily collected indoors (73.1%). Four female sand flies were positive for Leishmania DNA, and one of them (Ny. ylephiletor) was captured indoors. The parasite complex L. guyanensis (L. guyanensis and L. panamensis) was found in both sand flies and patients’ samples. In patients we also detected L. braziliensis and a cutaneous form of L. infantum. Three engorged Ny. ylephiletor were screened for blood meal identification, finding humans and domestic pig’s blood.
Conclusions
This is the first report in Guatemala of the presence of L. guyanensis in patients, and the first characterization of Leishmania infections in humans and sand flies that concur in time and geographical area. The capture of anthropophilic sand flies indoors, some with Leishmania DNA, could suggest indoor transmission of CL, but further studies are needed to confirm our results. These findings are key to local health authorities for decision-making on the appropriate prevention measures, such as the use of insecticide treated bed nets.
Bioremediation Potential of Soil Lead (Pb) Tolerant Fungi isolated from Owino Uhuru, a Suburb of Mombasa County, Kenya
Authors: Panyako Benjamin Wesonga , Wacira Teresia Nyambura , Omolo Ted David , Gicharu Gibson Kamau , Njeru Ezekiel Mugendi
Published: March 2024

A lead (Pb) smelter plant located in Owino Uhuru, a suburb of Mombasa County, caused lead poisoning and lifelong health effects. The Government of Kenya closed down the plant after reports of contamination. This study collected 24 soil samples from Owino Uhuru and analyzed them for lead levels using Microplasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry. The study also isolated and identified seven strains of fungi from the lead-contaminated soil and screened them for their ability to absorb lead. The genomic DNA of the fungal isolates was identified using ITS sequences of the rDNA. Blastn analysis indicated that the ITS gene sequences of the isolates had similarities of > 100% with known sequences in the nucleotide sequence database. These fungi were identified as Aspergillus welwitschiae, Aspergillus oryzae, Aspergillus piperis, Aspergillus austwickii, Aspergillus aflatoxiformans and Aspergillus tubingensis. The fungal isolates were tested for their ability to absorb lead at concentrations of 1.0 ppm, 0.8 ppm, 0.6 ppm, 0.4 ppm, and 0.2 ppm. The soil sample closest to the battery recycling plant contained more lead than those collected further away. Soil sample AU06, taken from the area bordering the wall of the lead smelter plant, had the highest lead concentration compared to all the samples. Aspergillus welwitschiae (GRY1) showed a higher potential for lead biosorption of 0.35 ± 0.1 ppm at 0.6 ppm lead concentration compared to other Aspergillus species. The study suggests using these fungal isolates for the removal and bio-treatment of lead-contaminated and polluted environments.
A-RepVGG: Research on Classification Algorithms based on Deep Learning and Wood CT Images
Authors: Zheng Zhishuai , Ge Zhedong , Yang Xiaoxia , Liu Xiaotong , Qin Lipeng , Wang Xu , Zhou Yucheng
Published: March 2024

To address the issue of limited expressive ability and performance degradation of the model caused by the limited depth and width of the CNN because of low computational overhead of lightweight convolutional neural networks, this paper introduces a classification method called A-RepVGG for wood CT images. A-RepVGG aims to enhance the model's classification accuracy in terms of wood microstructure by increasing the model complexity without increasing the depth and width of the network. The method utilizes adaptive convolution to dynamically aggregate convolution kernels based on the input image. This allows the convolution kernels to have optimal receptive fields on different layers of features, enabling a more comprehensive extraction of information, such as wood texture, tubular pore distribution, and cell arrangement. Additionally, a multi-scale null attention mechanism is incorporated into the network, multi-layer convolution is employed to extract feature maps of different scales and weighted fusion is adopted to emphasize important feature regions. This effectively captures both local and global information of the image. Finally, the ELU activation function is introduced to ensure that the feature information can be properly output in the negative half-axis, thereby facilitating a more thorough extraction of wood feature information and improving the model's classification accuracy. The study aimed to classify 20 species of wood cross-section microscopic images. The findings revealed that the A-RepVGG model outperformed other existing wood image classification models, such as ResNet, ResNeSt, and ViT. The A-RepVGG model achieved an impressive accuracy of 99.50% on the test set and 99.20% on the validation set. This model incorporates adaptive convolution and attention mechanisms, which effectively enhance the classification accuracy of wood microscopic images. These results highlight the potential of deep learning in automatic classification of wood species and provide valuable insights for micro-level wood classification.
Chemo-mechanical ageing of paper: effect of acidity, moisture and micro-structural features
Authors: Sadr Amir Parsa , Maraghechi Siavash , Suiker Akke S.J. , Bosco Emanuela
Published: March 2024

A multi-scale modeling framework is proposed for the prediction of the chemo-mechanical degradation of paper, with the particular aim of uncovering the key factors affecting the degradation process. Paper is represented as a two-dimensional, periodic repetition of a fibrous network unit cell, where the fibers are characterized by a moisture-dependent chemo-hygro-mechanical constitutive behavior. The degradation of paper occurs primarily as a result of the hydrolysis of cellulose, which causes a reduction of the degree of polymerization and a consequent decrease of the effective mechanical properties, ultimately leading to fiber embrittlement and a loss of material integrity. The interplay between the acidity of the paper, the ambient environmental conditions, and its chemo-mechanical degradation behaviour is a complex process. In the model, these interactions are accounted for by determining the coupled temporal evolution of the degree of polymerization, the acidity of the paper, and the moisture content, from which the time-dependent tensile strength of the paper is calculated. The internal stresses developing in the fibrous network under a change in moisture content lead to brittle fiber fracture once they reach the fiber tensile strength. The successive breakage of individual fibers results in damage development in the fibrous network, altering its effective constitutive properties. The temporal evolution of the effective hygro-mechanical properties of the fibrous network is calculated by employing asymptotic homogenization. For obtaining accurate model input, the strength and stiffness properties of individual fibers and the degree of polymerization of paper samples are measured at different ageing times by carrying out dedicated experiments. Subsequently, a series of numerical simulations is performed to analyze the chemo-mechanical degradation process of paper, highlighting the influence of the time-evolving acidity and moisture content. The numerical study further considers the effects of micro-structural features (i.e., the anisotropy of the fibrous network orientation and the fiber longitudinal elastic modulus) on the macroscopic degradation response of paper. The results of this work may help conservators of cultural heritage institutions determining optimal environmental conditions to limit or delay the time-dependent degradation of valuable historical paper artefacts.
Novel Approach for Addressing Data Imbalance
Authors: Patel Vaibhavi , Bhavsar Hetal
Published: March 2024

Imbalanced class distributions pose a prevalent challenge in numerous classification problems, requiring effective strategies for learning from such skewed data. Traditional machine learning algorithms often struggle with imbalanced datasets, as they tend to bias their classification functions towards the majority class, resulting in suboptimal performance for minority classes. In our research, we propose a novel approach to address this challenge specifically tailored for Support Vector Machines (SVM), a well-established family of learning algorithms. Our method leverages a kernel trick to enhance the SVM’s classification capabilities on imbalanced datasets named as KTI. It aims to streamline the classification process by incorporating adaptive data transformations within the algorithm itself, offering a more efficient and integrated solution for handling imbalanced data. Experimental evaluations conducted on diverse real-world datasets demonstrate the superior performance of our proposed strategy compared to existing methods , showcasing its potential for practical applications in classification tasks with skewed class distributions.
Seismic Resilience of G+6 Irregular RC Building: A Fragility Analysis
Authors: Mokashi Vishwajeet M. , Jadhav H. S.
Published: March 2024

Fragility analysis is essential for assessing structural vulnerability during natural hazards like earthquakes and floods. It guides risk mitigation, enhances infrastructure resilience, and informs decision-making, emergency planning, and disaster recovery efforts. This manuscript aims to explore the fragility curves potential in assessing the structural systems performance, particularly those with high irregularity. The study employs a non-linear static analysis of a G+6 storey irregular structural frame designed in accordance with Indian standards using SAP2000. It demonstrates the use of fragility curves in assessing structural performance of a G+6 irregular reinforced concrete structure under earthquake forces. This manuscript underscores the importance of considering discrete damage probabilities and collapse risks in different directions for accurately assessing structural vulnerabilities. It reveals a higher collapse probability within the direction of push-y (44%) in contrast with the push x-direction (5%), indicating a greater susceptibility to damage under specific loading conditions. The study concludes that fragility curves offer a rational and consistent method for seismic performance assessment of structures with high irregularity. It also affirms the adequacy of buildings designed as per Indian standards in withstanding earthquake forces.