bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of High Frequency Chest Wall Oscillation (HFCWO) on Clinical Symptoms in COPD
Authors: Bruner Meaghan M , Bazan Clarissa , Liu Bo , Cheng Christina , Chad Marion , Sievert Chet , Edwards Lloyd , Solomon George M.
Published: April 2024

Background: Mucociliary clearance plays a critical role in pulmonary host defense. Abnormal mucociliary clearance contributes to the pathogenesis of pulmonary disorders, including COPD. In bronchiectasis, treatments targeting mucus obstruction in the airways include the use of high frequency chest wall oscillation (HFCWO) therapy. This prospective outcome based study was designed to investigate the changes in symptoms and quality of life (QOL) to measure the effect of adjunctive HFCWO therapy to standard of care therapy for patients with COPD.
Research Question: When HFCWO is indicated and used as intended, will the quality of life for those patients with COPD improve and sustain improvement.
Study Design and Methods: We conducted a prospective, openl-label, observational study in COPD patients without concomitant bronchiectasis. Participants had assessments of QOL at baseline (day 0) and then at 30 and 90 days after initiation of HFCWO therapy. The St. George’s Respiratory Questionnaire for COPD Patients (SGRQ-C) was employed and longitudinally followed at each timepoint. Paired t-tests were used to compare means between each time points adjusted for multiple comparisons. A linear mixed model for the analysis of longitudinal data was then constructed to determine the simultaneous contribution of race, gender, ethnicity, time, and selected interactions in the primary outcome of change in SGRQ-C across 0, 30, and 90 days .
Results: The cohort of patients (n=102) demonstrated a significant reduction in the SGRQ-C at 30 and sustained at 90 days compared to baseline. In addition, two component scores of the SGRQ-C questionnaire (“Symptoms” and Impacts”) were significantly reduced at 30 and 90 days.
Interpretation: This prospective, observational study demonstrates statistically significant and clinically favorable responses to HFCWO as an adjunctive therapy for patients with a primary diagnosis of COPD without concomitant bronchiectasis. Results of this study inform the design of additional additional studies of HFCWO to prove efficacy inCOPD patients.
Comparison of Oral Conditions between the Macuxi and Yanomami Indigenous Ethnicities: a observational study in Brazil.
Authors: Roman-Torres Caio Vinicius G. , Pallos Debora , Boaventura Richardson Mondego , Kussaba Sergio Tadashi , Cruz Doralice Severo da , Sendyk Wilson Roberto
Published: April 2024

Objectives: In the stateof Roraima, Brazil, there are indigenous populations with cultural habits and ethnic characteristics that differ from those of the nonindigenouspopulation. Changes in the oral health of indigenous people, such as periodontal disease, caries lesions and occlusal wear, are objects of study for obtainingoral health indicators, as they significantly impact the health of this population;thus, they arefundamental for public health policies. Our objective was to compare the oral conditionsof indigenous people of the Yanomamis (YAN) and Macuxis (MAC) ethnicities in the State of Roraima.
Methods: A total of 148 indigenous people were evaluated; 83 (53.50%) YAN and 65 (46.50%) MAC individuals presented at the indigenous health house. DMFT indices, periodontal indicesand the occlusal wear index (BEWE), including eating habits, were measuredby two calibrated examiners.
Results: Significant differences were found regarding DMFT, with higher values ​​for MAC individuals than forYAN individuals(P<0.05). According tothe periodontal evaluation, there was a significantly greater probing depth (PS) in YAN individuals over 35 years of age. For the plaque index (PI), there were greatervalues ​​for YAN individuals, with a significant difference for all groups compared. Regarding eating habits, YAN individuals consumedsignificantly more native food, whereas MAC individuals consumedpredominantly industrialized food. When evaluating the BEWE index, no statistically significant difference was observed between the ethnicities.
Conclusion: The difference in eating habits between ethnicities may have influenced the difference in the DMFT index. Periodontal indices are affected by poor oral hygiene, and oral hygiene instruction and guidance are necessary and could help reduce the incidenceof caries and periodontal disease.
A method for constructing the weighted mean temperature grid model considering the hourly near-surface temperature lapse rate in GNSS PWV
Authors: Yue Caiya , Wang Hu , Hu Liya , Xu Changhui , Dang Yamin
Published: April 2024

Weighted mean temperature (Tm) serves as a crucial parameter in converting tropospheric zenith wet delay into precipitable water vapor in global navigation satellite system meteorology. Different from the traditional strategy, this study developed a new method of atmospheric Tm grid model construction with high precision and high spatiotemporal resolution while taking into account the hourly near-surface air temperature lapse rates (NSTLR). Core research contents include the regional hourly NSTLR estimation and Tm grid model establishment. This proposed method was validated and analyzed using measured data from 109 meteorological stations in Shandong Province, located in eastern China. The result shows that compared with the correction by environmental lapse rate, the overall accuracy of the Tm grid model established by the hourly NSTLR correction can be improved by about 10.3% and 19.4%, respectively, when Tm reference values calculated based on the measured temperature and ERA5 reanalysis data were used. Furthermore, statistics show that for the Taishan Station with the highest altitude (1543 meters), the accuracy can be increased by 21.1% and 28.7%, respectively. Therefore, the proposed method is of great practical significance for the Tm construction by using ground-based meteorological observation, especially for the areas with large terrain changes.
Effect of solasodine on mast cell-mediated OVA (ovalbumin)- induced airway inflammation in asthma via the Fyn-Lyn-Syk pathway
Authors: Guo Zhen , Zhao Cuixiang , Fang Yanni , Yue Xiuxuan , Wang Qiuxia , Qu Changhua , Cui Jinpeng
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Current clinical asthma therapeutic drugs can produce a series of adverse effects when used for a long period of time or in high doses, so it is urgent to find new therapeutic strategies. Solasodine can inhibit ovalbumin (OVA)-induced type II inflammation in mice, but the mechanism is still unclear. Mast cell (MCs) degranulation is an important part of allergic reactions, and Src family kinases (SFKs) are involved in the activation of the initiation signal of MC degranulation, and Lyn, Fyn, and Syk among SFKs play important regulatory roles in MC degranulation. Regulation of SFKs can inhibit the MC degranulation process and suppress the occurrence of allergic reactions. Here, we explored the effects of solasodine on OVA-induced asthma in mice and MC-mediated allergic reactions. Methods: Mouse bone marrow-derived mast cells (BMMCs) cells were added with different concentrations (0, 2, 4, 6, 8,10, 12 and 14 µM) of solasodine to select the appropriate concentration. In transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 treatment of BMMCs, cells were treated with 10 µM solasodine or dexamethasone (Dex), respectively, to analyze the possible mechanisms of action. A mouse model of bronchial asthma was constructed, and the mice were divided into control, OVA, OVA + Dex, OVA + solasodine (1 mg/kg) and OVA + solasodine (10 mg/kg) groups. The histopathological changes in the lungs of the mice were observed by staining with HE, Masson, and Tunel staining. ELISA assay was used to detect the differences between bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum. IL-4, IL-5, IL-1β, TNF-α and LTD-4 levels were detected by ELISA. BALF inflammatory cells were detected by Wright staining and P-Fyn, P-Lyn and P-Syk protein expression in lung tissues were detected by Western blot. Results: In TGF-β1-induced BMMCs, solasodine significantly reduced the expression of P-Fyn, P-Lyn, and P-Syk, decreased the expression of cytokines IL-6, TNF-α, and LTC4 and calcium uptake, as well as inhibited mast cell degranulation. In ova mice, solasodine inhibited OVA-induced airway remodeling, production of IL-4, IL-5, IL-1β, TNF-α, and LTD-4, and degranulation of mast cells in asthmatic mice. Solasodine inhibited the activation of Fyn, Lyn, and Sky and reduced the number of inflammatory cells such as eosinophils, lymphocytes, and neutrophils in lung tissues of asthmatic mice. Conclusion: In this study, we found that solasodine could have a concentration-dependent therapeutic effect on OVA-induced allergic asthma, and solasodine could inhibit the release of mast cell degranulation signature mediator β-HEX and histamine, and the molecular mechanism of its efficacy might be related to its regulation of the intracellular calcium concentration and the IgE/FcεRI-mediated signaling pathways such as P-Fyn/Fyn, P-Lyn/Lyn, P-Syk/Syk, and etc.
Vasculogenic mimicry triggers early recidivation and resistance to adjuvant therapy in esophageal cancer
Authors: Chen Jue , Wang Yu , Wu Meng-Ke , Yu Ke-Ke , Liu Jun-Chi , Chang Jia-Yu
Published: April 2024

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the impact of vasculogenic mimicry (VM) and postoperative adjuvant therapy on the prognosis and survival of patients with esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), as well as to assess whether VM affects the clinical benefit of postoperative adjuvant therapy.
Methods: A single-center retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent radical surgery for squamous esophageal cancer, documented in the medical record system. The presence or absence of VM in surgical specimens was determined using double staining with PAS/CD31. Stratification was applied based on adjuvant therapy and VM status. Survival curves and COX modelling were used to analyze the impact of the presence or absence of VM on the benefit of adjuvant therapy and survival prognosis of patients.
Results: VM-positive patients were more prone to postoperative recurrence and metastasis. VM was identified as an independent risk factor for progression-free survival (p<0.001, 95% CI:1.809-3.852) and overall survival (p<0.001, 95% CI:1.603-2.786) in postoperative squamous esophageal cancer. Postoperative adjuvant therapy significantly prolonged progression-free survival (p=0.008) and overall survival time (p<0.001) in patients with stage II and III esophageal cancer, with concurrent chemoradiotherapy being the most effective. However, the presence of VM significantly reduced the benefit of postoperative adjuvant therapy (p＝0.152).
Conclusion: VM negatively impacts the prognosis of postoperative ESCC patients and reduces the efficacy of postoperative adjuvant therapy.
Geoinference of Author Affiliations using NLP-based Text Classification
Authors: Lee Brian , Brownstein John S. , Kohane Isaac S.
Published: April 2024

Author affiliations are essential in bibliometric studies, requiring relevant information extraction from free-text affiliations. Precisely determining an author's location from their affiliation is crucial for understanding research networks, collaborations, and geographic distribution. Existing geoparsing tools using regular expressions have limitations due to unstructured and ambiguous affiliations, resulting in erroneous location identification, especially for unconventional variations or misspellings. Moreover, their inefficient handling of big datasets hampers large-scale bibliometric studies. Though machine learning-based geoparsers exist, they depend on explicit location information, creating challenges when detailed geographic data is absent. To address these issues, we developed and evaluated a natural language processing model to predict the city, state, and country from an author's free-text affiliation. Our model automates location inference, overcoming drawbacks of existing methods. Trained and tested with MapAffil, a publicly available geoparsed dataset of PubMed affiliations up to 2018, our model accurately retrieves high-resolution locations, even without explicit mentions of a city, state, or even country. Leveraging NLP techniques and the LinearSVC algorithm, our machine learning model achieves superior accuracy based on several validation datasets. This research demonstrates a practical application of text classification for inferring specific geographical locations from free-text affiliations, benefiting researchers and institutions in analyzing research output distribution.
A simplified automated approach for a preliminary safetyassessment of distributed electric and hybrid propulsionsystems
Authors: Albrecht Alexander , Siegel Joachim , Strohmayer Andreas
Published: April 2024

The environmental impact of disruptive aircraft and propulsion system architectures are investigated in many studies. Different energy generation and storage paths, in conjunction with the distributed propulsion systems are evaluated. The complexity of those hybrid powertrains increases significantly. As, the safety impact on aircraft level is not always obvious it has to be analyzed already in a preliminary design stage. Within this work a method shall be introduced that allows a simplified automated safety assessment of any powertrain architecture. All combinations of single and multiple failures are identified and a combined failure rate is derived. As the suitability of a component failure rate is suitable depends on the analysis of its intended function.
Therefore, the component failure impact has to be evaluated on aircraft level. A selection of metrics for top-level-aircraft functions, as introduced by Jézégou is used to implement an impact driven analysis for each relevant failure case. The impact on aircraft level is calculated using handbook methods. The metrics used assess the adverse effects on climb performance, lateral controllability and range degradation. For all failure combinations these effects can be validated against requirements imposed on the configuration. The configurations used for the assessment exemplarily were developed within the GNOSIS project. Results show the necessity for a reevaluation of either the architecture or the component failure rate. The method allows an early detection of configuration specific shortcomings of complex hybrid powertrain architectures, for the chosen metrics, already in a preliminary aircraft design stage.
The Impact of Aid for Trade on Income Inequality: The Case of Upper-Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Arı Ayşe , Lauridsen Jørgen T.
Published: April 2024

AfT (Aid for Trade) in developing and less developed countries can help reduce income inequality while promoting exports. The present study analyses the effect of AfT on income inequality for 10 upper-middle-income countries using the Pesaran (2006) Common Correlated Effect estimator for 2003–2018. Total AfT had no significant impact on income inequality. Regarding specific AfT components, AfT inflows to develop infrastructure had no significant effect on income inequality. However, AfT funds for developing productive capacity significantly reduced income inequality. This suggests that directing AfT funds to increase production in sectors like agriculture, industry, fishing, and tourism can also make the income distribution more equitable in upper-middle-income developing countries. Finally, the relationship between per capita income and income inequality supported the Kuznets’ inverted U hypothesis.
JEL Codes: O10, F35, P45
Diagnostic Performance and Potential Molecular Mechanisms of IGF-1-related genes in Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Wang Zehui , Shi Hongtao , Xue Honghong , Zhao Jingjing , Han Qinghua
Published: April 2024

Backgrounds Myocardial infarction (MI) is ischemic necrosis of the myocardium due to the formation of plaque on the inner walls of the arteries. Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) plays a prominent role in maintaining cardiac homeostasis. Investigating the molecular mechanism of the genes associated with IGF-1 in MI and the identification of diagnostic markers and therapeutic drugs could assist in treating MI.
Methods Two datasets in Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), GSE66360 and GSE60993, were subjected into this study. Primarily, the candidate genes were analyzed by differential expression analysis and Weighted Gene Co-expression Network Analysis (WGCNA). The machine learning algorithms were used to select hub genes from candidate genes. In addition, the signaling pathway of hub genes were explored by Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). The databases Diana-microT, miRNet, StarBase, and GeneMANIA were used to predict miRNAs, lncRNAs, transcription factors (TFs) and related genes, respectively. Eventually, the Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) was analyzed to investigate the relationship between hub genes and MI. Small-molecule drugs prediction through the utilization of the Drug-Gene Interaction Database (DGIdb).
Results 5 hub genes associated with IGF-1 (ALDH2, NLRP3, CLEC4E, ACSL1, FCER1G) have been discovered in MI. These genes exhibited promising diagnostic potential and were implicated in the occurrence of MI. The regulatory network disclosed that ACSL1 predicted 7 miRNAs, 372 lncRNAs and 1 TF. Furthermore, 14 small-molecule drugs targeting hub genes were predicted.
Conclusion Integrating bioinformatics approaches, we found 5 hub genes with diagnostic efficacy for MI. Moreover, the study discovered signaling pathways connected to MI, offering novel perspectives on the molecular causes of MI. Additionally, drugs targeting hub genes were predicted, which also able to supply new treatment options for MI in clinical settings.
Unveiling the Mechanism of Action of Isoliquiritigenin in Suppressing Co- Expression of HER2 and HER3 in Breast Cancer: Implications for Clinical Application
Authors: Hu Jiejie , Liu Siyuan , Qin Chengdong , Hu Lihong , Xin Wenxiu , Jiang Chuner , Yu Yang.
Published: April 2024

Background: The simultaneous expression of HER-2 and HER-3 is a crucial characteristic of HER-2-positive breast cancer, which is strongly associated with a negative prognosis. Extensive research has consistently shown the immunomodulatory, anti-tumor, and antiproliferative properties of ISL.
Purpose：This study aims to assess the impact of ISL on the biological behavior of HER-2-positive breast cancer cells, while concurrently elucidating the underlying mechanisms.
Study design and Methods: Cell proliferation and clonal formation capacity were evaluated through the utilization of CCK-8 and clone formation experiments, respectively, subsequent to drug intervention. The TUNEL assay was employed to detect cell apoptosis following treatment with ISL. The effects of ISL on cell invasion and migration were examined using scratch healing and TRANSWELL assays. The impact of drugs on tumorigenesis was investigated through the implementation of the subcutaneous tumor formation model of nude mice fat pad. Alterations in the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway of cells and tumor tissue were analyzed through Western blotting analysis.
Results: The results of our study indicate that ISL exerts a significant inhibitory effect on tumor proliferation, clone formation, invasion, and promotes apoptosis when tested in vitro. Moreover, our in vivo experiments have provided further evidence supporting its ability to inhibit tumor cell growth. This observed effect can be attributed to the downregulation of ErbB3 expression, which is regulated by the PI3K-AKT signaling pathway.
Conclusion: Through our comprehensive research efforts have revealed the intricate mechanism by which ISL effectively suppresses the co-overexpression of HER2 and HER3-positive breast cancer. By introducing innovative concepts and methodologies, our research has established laid a theoretical ground work for the transformative clinical application and utilization of ISL in the treatment of HER-2 and HER3 co-positive breast cancer.
Hypophysitis and central nervous system involvement in association with Sjögren’s syndrome along with hypoparathyroidism: a case report
Authors: Yum Jungyon , Lee Sang-Won , Rhee Yumie , Heo Kyoung
Published: April 2024

Background Patients with autoimmune diseases can develop multiple autoimmune diseases over a long period of time, and the presence of more than one autoimmune disease in a single patient is defined as polyautoimmunity. Polyautoimmunity may be clinical evidence that autoimmune diseases share similar immunological mechanisms. We report a 30-year-old woman with a unique combination of autoimmune diseases predominantly affecting the central nervous system, with hypoparathyroidism, hypophysitis, medulla involvement, and pons and temporal lobe involvement associated with primary Sjögren's syndrome (pSS), occurring independently over a long period.
Case presentation The patient who had a history of muscle cramps and one seizure incident, presented with vomiting and blurred vision. She was diagnosed with hypophysitis and hypoparathyroidism with calcifications in the basal ganglia and cerebellum. She recovered after four months of corticosteroid treatment for hypophysitis and was started on treatment for hypoparathyroidism. Eight months later, she developed vomiting, hiccups, vertigo, and ataxia with a focal lesion in the medulla. She recovered with immunosuppressive treatment for 2 years. Fifty-eight months after the onset of hypophysitis, she developed diplopia and dry mouth and eyes. MRI showed infiltrative lesions in the left pons and left temporal lobe. Based on positive anti-Sjögren's syndrome-related antigen A antibodies and low unstimulated whole salivary flow rate, pSS was diagnosed. She received corticosteroids and continued mycophenolate mofetil treatment with recovery of neurological symptoms.
Conclusion This case highlights the need for long-term follow-up to detect autoimmune disease processes involving various organs.
The relationship between metabolic syndrome components and prostate cancer risk : a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Shen Chaodong , Zhu Zhirong , Zhang Xiaolong , Fang Mengjie , Chen Jiajian , Shao Feng , Sun Fangfang , Tang Guiliang
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Numerous epidemiological studies have explored the association between the components of metabolic syndrome (MetS) and risk of prostate cancer (PCa). However, to date, the findings have yielded inconclusive results. This study aimed to evaluate the causal effects of MetS components, including obesity, disturbances in glucose metabolism, and hypertension, on the development of PCa.
Methods
Data for type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), obesity, body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, hypertension, and PCa were acquired from genome-wide association studies in FinnGen, UK Biobank, and the Prostate Cancer Association Group to Investigate Cancer Associated Alterations in the Genome consortium. We used two-sample univariate and multivariate Mendelian randomization (MR) to estimate the causal relationships between MetS components and PCa risk. Sensitivity analyses were employed to assess the violation of the MR assumptions.
Results
No evidence of an association between genetically predicted concentrations of T1DM, T2DM, hypertension, obesity, and BMI and PCa risk was found in our study. Waist circumference concentration was negatively associated with PCa risk in the univariate analysis; however, this association disappeared after adjustment for BMI. Genetic variants associated with waist circumference were found to be correlated with decreased PCa risk when BMI was reintroduced into the univariate MR analysis.
Conclusion
We observed that among the MetS components, genetically predicted waist circumference was associated with decreased PCa risk, whereas no association was observed between BMI and PCa risk. This may be related to the distribution characteristics of fat throughout the body and warrants further investigation.
The causal relationship between cathepsins and hepatocellular carcinoma risk: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yang Lishi , Mao Fengyao , Li Yuhan , Lin Mingjia , Sun Fuhua
Published: April 2024

Background
Abnormal expression of cathepsins has been reported in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the evidence about the causal role of cathepsins in facilitating or preventing HCC is lacking. Systematically studying the causality between cathepsins and HCC would help provide novel targets for screening and prevention of HCC.
Methods
We conducted twosample Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses. The data of cathepsins and HCC for analysis were derived from publicly available genetic summary data. The causal effects were estimated with inverse variance weighted, MR-Egger and weighted median. Sensitivity analyses were implemented with Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, MR-PRESSO and leave-one-out analysis.
Results
The results of univariate MR analysis show that elevated cathepsin S levels increase the risk of HCC. On the other hand, reverse MR analyses indicate that HCC may raise cathepsin Z levels. According to the results of multivariable analysis using nine cathepsin variables, an increased risk of HCC is associated with elevated levels of cathepsin S.
Conclusion
The evidence that cathepsin S is associated with HCC in a causal way provides a novel insight into the underlying mechanisms of HCC by integrating genomics with cathepsins, and has an implication for HCC screening and prevention.
Prevalence of Cervical Spondylosis and Its Associated Factors Among Symptomatic Adult Patients Attending Tertiary Hospital Ethiopia 2023
Authors: Abduljewad Beyan , Mulu Abay , Ayele Biniyam , Mamushet Yared
Published: April 2024

Background: Cervical spondylosis (CS) is a comprehensive term that describes age-related chronic muscles or bones diseases, which results in neck pain, tingling in arms and possible myelopathic associated paralysis.
Objective: The Aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of CS and its associated factors among symptomatic adult patients.
Materials and Methods: The study was a retrospective hospital based conducted at Tikur Anbessa specialized hospital, between May to December 2022 on Cervical spondylosis (CS) patients. The source population was, all spondylosis patients. The study population was all CS patients having completed clinical and imaging data from January 2020 to January 2022. Patients with incomplete data, acute trauma to the neck, congenital, neoplastic, idiopathic, circulatory, and metabolic were excluded from study.
Result: During the study period, 2176 Spondylosis were diagnosed. Of these, medical records of 339 cases were taken. Among these, 189(55.8%) female and 150 (44.2%) were males. The mean age of patients was 54.9 years, with SD of 10.044. Among all spondylosis, the prevalence of cervical spondylosis was 97(28.6%) which is the second most common next to lumbar spondylosis 199(58.7%). 40(11.8%) were having both cervical and lumbar spondylosis and 3(0.9%) was having thoracic spondylosis. The female was higher than male with a (AOR = 2.959, CI= 1.445- 6.060, p=.003), and age group 40-59 years higher as compared to below 40 and above 60 years with a (AOR=2.011, CI=1.164 -6.240, p=.000). Current smokers were higher with a (AOR =2.02, CI=1.843-11.0242, p=.008) and current alcohol user also higher with a (AOR= 2.83, CI=1.520-10.974, p=0.000).
Conclusion: The prevalence of cervical spondylosis (CS) was high compared to the reported literatures on cervical spondylosis. The risk of CS increases with age in both sexes, and females were more affected by cervical spondylosis.
Cognitive impairment following maternal separation in the rat is regulated by effects of the NAD + /SIRT3 axis on hippocampal synaptic plasticity
Authors: Hao Keke , Chen Fashuai , Xu Shilin , Xiong Ying , Xu Rui , Huang Huan , Shu Chang , Lv Yisheng , Wang Gaohua , Wang Huiling
Published: April 2024

Maternal separation during early life can induce behaviors in adult animals that resemble those seen in schizophrenia, manifesting cognitive deficits. This may be indicative of oxidative stress linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. However, there is limited understanding of the molecular mechanisms regulating mitochondria in neural circuits that govern cognitive impairment relevant to schizophrenia, and their impact on neuronal structure and function. A 24-hour maternal separation (MS) rat model was utilized to simulate features associated with schizophrenia. Schizophrenia-associated behaviors and cognitive impairment were assessed using the open field test, pre-pulse inhibition, novel object recognition test, and Barnes maze test. The levels of mitochondrial proteins were measured using Western blot analysis. Additionally, alterations in mitochondrial morphology, reduced hippocampal neuronal spine density, and impaired LTP in the CA1 region were observed. Nicotinamide (NAM) supplementation, administration of honokiol (HNK) (a SIRT3 activator), or overexpression of SIRT3 could inhibit this process. Conversely, administration of 3-TYP (a SIRT3 inhibitor) in control and NAM-treated MS rats led to deficits in behavior, mitochondrial morphology, and the hippocampal neuronal phenotype. Our findings suggested a causal role for the NAD+/SIRT3 axis in modulating cognitive behaviors via effects on hippocampal neuronal synaptic plasticity. The NAD+/SIRT3 axis could be considered a promising therapeutic target for addressing cognitive-related behavioral disturbances, such as those seen in schizophrenia.
New Algorithm with less Coherence for Generating Uplink Complex Non-Orthogonal Multiple Access Spreading Codes and Reduce Program Execution Time
Authors: Banob A. F. , Zaki F. W. , M.ASHOUR MOHAMMED
Published: April 2024

Non-orthogonal multiple access (NOMA)-assisted 5G wireless communication networks in uplink and downlink transmissions can provide high demands of low latency, high data rate, massive connectivity, and high access speed without compromising security. Algorithms to produce minimal coherence (cross-correlation) codebooks are desired in various applications. The authors built an algorithm capable of generating complex NOMA spreading codes based on the equiangular tight frame (ETF) method. Execution time is one of the computer sciences terms that refer to the various stages of running software programs and determining the performance of programs. The created algorithm was reasonably fast to find enough NOMA spreading codes that have the minimum cross-correlation. It modified the initial value with the algorithm to reduce the execution time and generate complex value-spreading codes. This algorithm achieved the optimal cross-correlation for multiple access and implemented the lowest running time compared to the "best complex antipodal spherical code" (BCASC) method, the "approximate nearest neighbors’ best complex antipodal spherical code" (ANN BCASC) method, the method of constructing packing in Grassmannian manifolds via alternating projection, the method of constructing packing in Grassmannian manifolds via sequential smooth optimization, the "coherence-based Grassmannian codebook" (CBGC) method, the “Grassmannian package” method, the “original best complex antipodal spherical code" (ORIG-BCASC) method, and the "Grassmannian package" method. The algorithm achieved optimal coherence (maximum cross-correlation) for matrix dimension (m, n), where m, n denotes the size of the collection set of vectors in the frame. The optimal coherence (maximum cross-correlation) is 0.4472 for (3, 6), 0.4714 for (3, 7), 0.3536 for (4, 7), 0.3780 for (4, 8), 0.4472 for (4, 16), 0.3333 for (5, 10), 0.3464 for (5, 11), 0.4082 for (5, 25), 0.2500 for (6, 9), 0.2887 for (6, 11), 0.3015 for (6, 12), and 0.3333 for (7, 28) with an enhancement the parameters number of iterations and tolerance value in time less than one second. Moreover, superior to the “Grassmannian package” method in execution time, the execution time for the BCASC, CBGC, and ORIG-BCASC methods was more than one second. The simulations verified the uplink spectral efficiency and total capacity rate after applying the spreading codes generated from the suggested algorithm. In conclusion, the proposed algorithm creates complex matrices that achieve minimal coherence (maximum cross-correlation) at the least running time.
Brief, Real-Time Reflections: An Efficient, Contextual, and Familiar Variation of Narrative Medicine: A Mixed Methods Analysis
Authors: Hilgeman Brian , Kurtz Kevin , Hoeschen Mary , Hovis Zachary , Harrison Rachele , Minshew Lana
Published: April 2024

Background: Narrative medicine is a widely used pedagogic tool but can be detached from the clinic context and unfamiliar to students. Brief real-time reflections could be a method of narrative medicine that is contextual, familiar, and convenient.
Methods: Fourth year medical students completed 280-character reflections immediately after patient interactions while rotating in a primary care clinic serving complex patients. Three researchers used qualitative methods to develop a codebook to describe the reflections and an independent auditor verified codebook application. Student feedback regarding their experience writing reflections was elicited on a Likert scale to understand student perspectives on the tool about ease of use, empathy, and remembering patient interactions.
Results: Eighteen students completed 131 reflections during 64 clinics; an average of 2.04 reflections per clinic and spent an average of 4.39 minutes on each reflection. Three codes were elicited to describe the content of reflections: descriptive, emotional, and cognitive. The most frequently identified code was cognitive (n = 84, 41%), with descriptive (n = 69, 33%) and emotional (n = 53, 26%) being less frequent. Reflections could contain one or a combination of codes. The most common reflection was cognitive-only (n = 43, 33%) followed by a combination of descriptive and emotional (n=24; 18%). Most students agreed or strongly agreed that reflections helped them think more deeply about (9/9, 100%) and remember (8/9, 89%) patient interactions and were a good use of their time (7/9, 78%).
Conclusions: Brief, real-time reflections are a tool that allow medical students to reflect upon their clinical experiences in a complex and cognitive way and was well-received by students.
Proteomics analysis of extracellular vesicles for biomarkers of autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Moussa Houda Yasmine Ali , Shin Kyung Chul , Fuente Alberto de la , Bensmail Ilham , Abdesselem Houari B. , Ponraj Janarthanan , Mansour Said , Al-Shaban Fouad A. , Stanton Lawrence W , Abdulla Sara A. , Park Yongsoo
Published: April 2024

Background Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by symptoms that include social interaction deficits, language difficulties and restricted, repetitive behavior. Early intervention through medication and behavioral therapy can eliminate some ASD-related symptoms and significantly improve the life-quality of the affected individuals. Currently, the diagnosis of ASD is highly limited.
Methods To investigate the feasibility of early diagnosis of ASD, we tested extracellular vesicles (EVs) proteins obtained from ASD cases. First, plasma EVs were isolated from healthy controls (HCs) and ASD individuals and were analyzed using proximity extension assay (PEA) technology to quantify 1196 protein expression level. Second, machine learning analysis and bioinformatic approaches were applied to explore how a combination of EV proteins could serve as biomarkers for ASD diagnosis.
Results No significant differences in the EV morphology and EV size distribution between HCs and ASD were observed, but the EV number was slightly lower in ASD plasma. We identified the top five downregulated proteins in plasma EVs isolated from ASD individuals: WW domain-containing protein 2 (WWP2), Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27), C-type lectin domain family 1 member B (CLEC1B), Cluster of differentiation 40 (CD40), and folate receptor alpha (FRalpha). Machine learning analysis and correlation analysis support the idea that these five EV proteins can be potential biomarkers for ASD.
Conclusion We identified the top five downregulated proteins in ASD EVs and examined that a combination of EV proteins could serve as biomarkers for ASD diagnosis.
Porous Material Synthesis and Chromium (VI) Applications
Authors: Demiral Ilknur , Samdan Canan , CIN Hatice Hürrem
Published: April 2024

Using chemical activation, carbonaceous porous material was produced from sunflower shells (SS). The study includes the effects of variation in the amount of chemical activation agent and carbonization temperature on various properties of carbonaceous porous materials. To thoroughly examine the carbonaceous porous materials that were produced, a range of analytical techniques were employed. The aim was to gain a comprehensive understanding of the materials' properties and to identify any potential applications for these carbonaceous porous materials. The carbonaceous porous material, produced with a 4:1 impregnation ratio and carbonized at 500 °C, had the highest surface area and pore volume. The specific surface area of this material was measured to be 1501 m2/g, and the pore volume of this material was found to be 0.842 cm3/g, indicating that it has a high capacity for adsorption and storage of gases and liquids. These properties make this carbonaceous porous material an ideal candidate for various applications, such as catalysis, gas storage, and water purification. After the carbonaceous porous materials were synthesized, experiments were conducted to evaluate their ability to remove Cr (VI) from aqueous solutions. After analyzing the results, it was concluded that the Langmuir isotherm provided a better fit than the other two isotherms. Furthermore, the kinetic analysis of the adsorption process indicated that it followed pseudo-second-order kinetics. In conclusion, the study demonstrated that carbonaceous porous material derived from SS has a high adsorption capacity and can effectively remove toxic substances such as Cr (VI).
Weight Analysis of Target Properties in Developing Aviation Comprehensive Surrogate Fuel
Authors: Huo Weiye , Zhao Mengmeng
Published: April 2024

In the development of comprehensive surrogate fuel that can simulate the pollution emissions of actual fuels, the weights of the target properties should be determined according to the importance that affects the pollution emissions from spray combustion. Based on the unique advantages of single-component fuel whose basic physical and chemical properties and chemical reaction mechanism can be accurately obtained, the pollution emissions of several single-component fuels, including NOx, CO, and UHC, were measured in the aero-engine combustor. The power-law relationships between fuel atomization particle size, vapor pressure, pollutant generation of gaseous fuel combustion, and the pollution emissions from spray combustion are analyzed based on the response surface methodology. The results show that for CO and NOx emissions from spray combustion, the importance of atomization particle size, vapor pressure, and pollutant generation of gaseous fuel combustion increases in turn. For UHC emissions, the importance of vapor pressure is significantly higher than that of atomization particle size, while pollutant generation of gaseous fuel combustion has little effect on UHC emissions. The weight ratios of target properties are determined by the coefficients of the coded factors of the power-law models.
Historic ocean seasonality and global fisheries
Authors: Hume Andrew , Ratledge Nathan , Wabnitz Colette C.C. , Palomares Maria L.D , Dunbar Robert
Published: April 2024

Rising ocean temperatures threaten marine ecosystems and food security worldwide. Yet, our current understanding of how climate change affects global marine fisheries often overlooks critical seasonal dynamics that govern ecosystem function. To address this gap, we compiled a global dataset for 187 countries between 1950 to 2018 and employed fixed effects regression to assess the effect of intra-annual sea surface temperature (SST) variation on annual marine fisheries catches. We detect a significant non-linear response with varied effects across the globe. Increases over 1°C in intra-annual SST variation estimated a 12% increase in catches for low and high latitude aseasonal countries, and a 30% decrease in catches in highly seasonal mid-latitude countries. Our analyses underscore the need to integrate ocean seasonality in efforts to better understand, mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change on marine fisheries, to support sustainable fisheries management as well as maintain global ocean health.
Near Real-Time Forecasting of Temperature Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Ramagalla Om Abhinav , V Subrahmanyam Kandula , G Srinivasa Rao
Published: April 2024

Accurate predictions are vital for various applications, such as weather, climate, energy supply, transportation, and agriculture. The estimates of air temperature have been considered a crucial parameter in climate impact, and its prediction is challenging due to random changes and the non-linear relationship with other meteorological parameters such as wind speed, humidity, pressure, and soil moisture. Traditionally, Numerical Weather Prediction models serve the purpose of weather predictions, but they have their constraints and limitations. In recent years, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) technology has grown leaps and bounds in understating data-driven Earth systems. The present study employed two machine learning algorithms, namely extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost) and k-nearest neighbour (KNN), to predict the half-hourly temperature over Shadnagar (Latitude: 17.0713° N, Longitude: 78.2059° E), a semi-urban location in India. We utilized half-hourly meteorological parameters for training and testing data from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2019. After the successful training of both models, predictions were made by taking the previous 72 hours of meteorological parameters for the prediction of 72 hours of temperature. The XGBoost and KNN models were evaluated using mean square error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE). The results showed that both models had similar MSE and RMSE values of around 2 and 1.4, respectively. The correlation coefficients for both models were high, approximately 0.95. Overall, both models performed well in predicting temperature values, with the KNN model exhibiting better accuracy after 24 hours. The results of the study can be helpful for developing more accurate temperature prediction models for near-real-time forecasting. Further, we have developed a Synergetic Machine learning Algorithms for near Real-time forecasting of Temperature (SMART), a GUI based application for near-real time temperature forecasting and provided the multi-model mean temperature predictions.
Predictors of Septic Shock Mortality at a Tertiary Hospital in Ethiopia: A Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Zeleke Amanuel , Sitotaw Alazar , Arega Balew , Tewabe Elias , Solela Gashaw , Teshome Haileyesus , Hailemichael Hanna , Legese Seble , Ahmed Sebrina , Bogale Selam , Hailemichael Simret , Mitiku Anteneh , Endazenaw Getabalew , Tsegaye Eyuel , Eshetu Anteneh
Published: April 2024

Background: Septic shock causes significant mortality, ranging from 30% to 50%, with a slight difference in developing and developed countries. There is insufficient evidence in Ethiopia regarding septic shock mortality. Therefore, we aimed to determine the in-hospital mortality rate and its predictors among septic shock patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in Ethiopia.
Methods: A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted among septic shock patients admitted to Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College (Y12HMC) from January to September 2023. All patients with septic shock who fulfilled the inclusion criteria were included and followed until discharge or death. We collected sociodemographic characteristics, clinical and laboratory parameters, microbiologic findings, and treatment-related data from eligible patients using a standardized data extraction format. Data entry and analysis were done using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 25. The multivariable analysis using the Cox regression model was used to determine the predictors of in-hospital mortality, with P < 0.05 representing statistical significance.
Results: A total of 144 septic shock patients were included in the study. The mean age was 46 ± 19 years, with a range of 15 to 95 years. The overall in-hospital mortality of septic shock patients was 66.7%. The multivariable Cox regression analysis revealed that low Glasgow coma scale (GCS) [adjusted hazard ratio: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.35-3.69, P = 0.01] and low peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) [adjusted hazard ratio: 8.74, 95% CI: 1.18-14.84, P = 0.03] at diagnosis were independently associated with a higher risk of in-hospital mortality.
Conclusion: Septic shock mortality was found significantly higher in our study. Septic shock patients with low GCS and SpO2 at the time of diagnosis require a vigilant care. Early identification of high-risk patients, applying appropriate and compressive management could reduce the mortality.
Childcare Deserts Impede Scientists’ Career Development and Undermine Gender Equity
Authors: Li Jun
Published: April 2024

For decades, the United States grappled with a childcare crisis that left American families struggling to secure quality childcare, compromising both children's development and parental career progress. Here we investigate the impact of childcare availability---and the lack thereof---on US scientists' career advancement and gender equity in science. We construct a longitudinal database of childcare facilities and their capacities spanning the last twenty years. Leveraging the biennial survey of US scientists and engineers sponsored by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH), we uncover that over half of US scientists and engineers employed at universities and research institutions work in childcare deserts, that is, areas where the supply of childcare falls significantly short of demand. Despite equivalent exposure to these deserts, the career consequences for male and female scientists are starkly different. Childcare deserts disproportionally reduce women scientists’ likelihood of achieving tenure by 6.8 percentage points, with no noticeable impact on men’s tenure attainment. The lack of childcare explains almost the entire gender tenure gap among scientists with children. Furthermore, this impact is largest in engineering (-19.0 percentage points), followed by that in science and health (-8.2 and -4.9 percentage points, respectively). Our findings highlight the critical role of expanding childcare availability in maintaining research and innovation workforce’s productivity and in reducing the gender gap in science.
Enhanced Electrochemical Activity of NiAl Cathode for Hydrogen Production
Authors: Latreche Sofiane , Boutarek-Zaourar Naïma , Bencherifa Ismail , Messaoud Faouzi , Mossang Eric , Mansour Samir , Trari Mohamed
Published: April 2024

This work is devoted to the elaboration of Ni68%Al32% wt. (NiAl) intermetallic compound highly electro-active and cost-effective electrode materials using an induction furnace utilized as cathodes in alkaline water reduction into hydrogen. The XRD analysis showed the formation of the NiAl phase with an average crystallite size of 44.13 nm. The SEM/EDS results confirm the XRD results with an average grain size of 50 µm. The chemical activation of Aluminum from NiAl was carried out on NaOH (25%) solution at 353 K for 72 h. The Optical Profilometry and UV-visible spectrophotometry confirmed the formation of Ni-Raney-type electrodes with high specific surface area. The activated NiAl electrodes resulted in remarkable efficiency for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), 13 times higher than the non-activated electrode. The comparison with literature data reveals that the efficiency of the NiAl cathode has increased by 120% compared to pure Ni.