bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metals Health Nexus: Research, Impact, Review, and Sustainable Remediation
Authors: Gupta Biman Gati , Mukhopadhyay Rishika
Published: March 2024

Heavy metal presence in the environment is a recognized risk factor for various gastrointestinal (GI) illnesses globally. Over the course of two years, we conducted an investigation in the Calcutta textile industrial region, which has been producing textiles for over a century. We examined toxic heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Zn, Ni) in the waste of small-scale BD units and how it affected soil, fruit, and other Agro-samples. The inhabitants in the area were experiencing gastrointestinal sickness, which prompted our study. People in that region and its hinterland use surface water and intake daily Agro-products which contain 2 to 40 times higher (Pb, Cd, Ni) lead, cadmium, and nickel than the standard limit of WHO/FAO while nutrient (zinc) was found at 50 times lower than expected. The region’s soil samples tested positive for potentially heavy metals, suggesting a risk of GI disorders, ulcers, and cancer. This is also verified by observations/surveys for 2 years with local people.
Revealing heterogeneity and damage response in the adult human utricle
Authors: Dabdoub Alain , Luca Emilia , Ibeh Neke , Yamamoto Ryosuke , Bennett Dallas , Lin Vincent , Chen Joseph , Lovett Micheal
Published: March 2024

The human utricle is a vestibular organ responsible for maintaining balance. Balance function commonly deteriorates with age. With the aging population expected to double to 2 billion by 2050 and no pharmaceutical or biological treatments currently available, balance disorders are a significant unmet medical need. The utricle is composed of sensory and non-sensory cells, which are closely related, and non-sensory cells have a limited capacity to regenerate sensory cells in a damaged balance organ and, therefore, are a relevant therapeutic target. Here, we show the cellular and transcriptional profiles of the adult human utricle and its response to damage by performing bulk and single-cell RNA-sequencing from patient-derived utricles. We discovered six transcriptionally distinct non-sensory cell types, including a novel population, demonstrating the heterogeneity of the adult human utricle. In addition, using an aminoglycoside damage paradigm, we determined the early transcriptional changes of the utricle after damage. Our findings demonstrate that this organ has the capacity to respond to ototoxic damage within 24 h and potentially initiate a regenerative response via an early-responding supporting cell population. This study represents a major step forward in inner ear regenerative medicine, and our results will serve as a foundation for preclinical studies, paving the way to therapeutic strategies for balance recovery.
A multi-objective priority aware task scheduling in Fog–Cloud environment using improved meta-heuristic algorithm
Authors: Hussain syed Mujtiba , Begh G. R.
Published: March 2024

Internet of Things (IoT) tasks have a variety of quality of service (QoS) needs, wherein the fog-cloud computing has emerged as a promising platform for handling the tasks. As a result of its proximity to IoT devices, the fog environment offers minimal latency, but it also faces resource limitations, which is not present in cloud environment. The key obstacle of the fog-cloud setting is effectively executing tasks delegated from IoT devices, by making use of the available resources in the fog-cloud infrastructure. Hence, this research introduces a novel task scheduling approach based on the improved meta-heuristic algorithm. An improved zebra algorithm (ImZP) is proposed for performing the priority aware task scheduling. The zebra algorithm is hybridized with the mutation operation of the differential evolution algorithm (DE) for enhancing the exploration criteria to accomplish the global best solution. Besides, the acquisition of non-dominant solutions while considering the multi-objective fitness function, pareto optimal front is considered. Here, the multi-objective function based on priority, cost and execution time are considered in scheduling the task optimally. The assessment of priority aware task scheduling based on priority, availability, makespan, energy consumption, cost and success rate acquired the values of 0.9787, 0.8236, 0.1049, 0.0244, 0.1095 and 0.8238 respectively.
WITHDRAWN: Surface multi-spectral reflectivity and texture material recognition in non-constrained environments
Authors: Dhahri Ahmed , Amamou Ali , Faghihi Usef , Kelouwani Sousso , Boisclair Jonathan , Zeghmi Lotfi
Published: March 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors as it was submitted and made public without the full consent of all the authors. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
A Comprehensive Look at Abortion Care Services in Trinidad and Tobago- a mixed methods approach
Authors: Alexander Ayanna , Lewis Diedron , McLean Roger , Martinez Dona DaCosta , Joseph Samantha , de Leon Rodolfo Gomez Ponce , Theodore-Gandi Bernadette , Garcia Izola , Sirjusingh Adesh
Published: March 2024

Background: In 2014 60% of the abortions carried out in Latin America and the Caribbean were classified as less safe and at least 10% of all maternal deaths were due to unsafe abortion. Between 2010-2014 abortion rates in the Caribbean were estimated to be 59 per 1000 women of reproductive age. There is no current country specific published data on abortion in Trinidad and Tobago and therefore a better understanding of the services and the current environment surrounding abortion-related services available in the public health systems was needed.
Methods: A situational assessment, using both qualitative and quantitative methodologies, was conducted in Trinidad and Tobago. The study was done in simultaneous phases: 1) In-depth interviews with key stakeholders at institutions where abortion care is conducted 2) A review of laws, policies and programs related to abortion; and 3) Collection of information on abortion services from health facilities and women’s health advocates.
Results: In Trinidad and Tobago, the English common laws provide a defence for physicians who provide a termination of pregnancy when the physical or mental health of the mother is at risk. There are no national comprehensive policy or guidelines that regulate abortion and thus the legislation and ethical code are subject to interpretation. Medical management of abortion is done using misoprostol alone regimens and surgical management is confined to dilatation and curettage. The hospitals are generally well equipped but some upgrades are necessary. WHO’s recommendations that need to be implemented mainly focus on implementation of medical abortion standard using mifepristone and misoprostol regimens, MVA and improvement in contraceptive care. A comprehensive national guide is needed to ensure consistency quality of care throughout the islands.
Conclusions: Abortion in Trinidad and Tobago is still perceived differently by varying groups of persons in the health sector and by the public. In the short term, a comprehensive guide should be developed that is accessible and understood by members of the health sector for consistency and standardization of care across the islands.
The Relationship Between Socioeconomic Status and Behcet’s Disease Manifestations
Authors: Mirzamohammadi Alireza , Salehi Oveis , Hosseini Seyyed Mohammad , Rohani Mohammad Hossein , Moghadam Shirin Sabouhi , Soltani Samaneh , Abdollahpour Esmat , Jourshari Negar Movasseghi , Nejadhosseinian Mohammad , Kasaeian Amir , Nikjoo Zohreh Sadat , Faezi Seyedeh Tahereh , Alikhani Majid
Published: March 2024

Background Behcet’s disease (BD) is a chronic inflammatory condition mostly identified by recurrent oral aphthous ulcers and several systemic symptoms. The etiology of BD is not clear; however, some studies suggest some risk factors, such as low socioeconomic status (SES) and poor living conditions. This study aimed to determine the relationship between SES and the first manifestation of BD, the occurrence of symptoms, and the recurrence of ocular involvement. Methods In this cross-sectional study, clinical and laboratory data and socioeconomic features of 200 patients diagnosed with BD were recorded. Patients were classified into three quantiles of SES using principal component analysis (PCA) and regression model. Fisher's exact test and the chi-square test were used to measure differences among SES groups. Results The mean age of patients was 44.9 ± 12.6 years. Most of the participants (90.5%) resided in cities. Considering BD manifestations, ocular involvement recurrence mostly occurred in patients with low SES (n = 19, 42.22%) and less often with moderate SES (n = 9, 20.00%) compared to high SES (n = 17, 37.78%) (p = 0.033). Cataract involvement was more common in the low SES group (n = 31, 50.82%) compared to the moderate (n = 24, 39.34%) and high SES (n = 12, 20%) groups (p = 0.01). There were no other statistically significant differences regarding BD organ involvements or laboratory data among different SES groups. Conclusion The present evidence concludes that SES may be an important contributing factor in the course of BD. Low SES may deteriorate relapses of ocular involvement and cataracts. Whereas, moderate SES has a protective effect on relapse, and high SES protects against cataracts.
Deep venous thrombosis in Polytrauma patients with Traumatic Brain Injury： development and validation of a predictive model
Authors: Zhang Cong , Li Hui
Published: March 2024

Background:To develop and validate a nomogram for prediction of the occurrence of deep venous thrombosis in polytrauma patients with traumatic brain injury.Methods:A retrospective and observationaltrails were performed from November,2021 to May,2023. The prediction model was developed in a training cohort that consisted of 349 polytrauma patients with traumatic brain injury and data was gathered from November,2021 to August,2022. The baseline clinical characteristics from the electronic medical and nursing records of each patient which include demographics, medical records, laboratory parameters, and clinical outcomes were collected. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to develop the predicting model, and this was presented with a nomogram. The performance of the nomogram was assessed with respect to its calibration, discrimination, and clinical usefulness. Internal validation was assessed. An independent validation cohort contained 298 consecutive patients from August,2022 to May,2023.Result:A total of 647 trauma patients who met the inclusion criteria. Among these, 349 patients were in training cohort and 298 patients were in validation cohort. The incidence of DVT was 32.1% and 31.9% in the trainingand validation cohorts, respectively. Predictors contained in the individualized prediction nomogram the Age, Smoking, ISS, GCS, D-dimer, MV and AVD. The model showed a good discrimination, with a C-index of 0.783 and a good calibration. Calibration curves and decision curve analysis of the DVT-predicting nomogram demonstrated that the nomogram was clinically useful.Conclusion:This study presents a nomogram that incorporates both the demographic characteristics and clinical risk factors, and can be conveniently used to individualized prediction of DVT in polytrauma patients with traumatic brain injury
Quantitative Evaluation of Isolated Overburden Grout Injection Technology Based on Large-Deflection Inclined Thin Plate Combined with Slurry Modeling
Authors: LI Yaxing , YANG Keming
Published: March 2024

In the Quaternary thick loose layer covered mining area, the Isolated Overburden Grout Injection technology has been widely applied and has provided effective ground subsidence management. For the process of mechanical action on the important strata, the stresses generated externally by the slurry in the Bed-separation cavities remain a study open question. In this paper, a large deflection mechanical model of inclined principal key strata (PKS) thin plate under the action of bed-separation slurry is constructed based on the large deflection of thin plate, the principle of energy law, fracture mechanics, and non-Newtonian hydrodynamic theory. The 7221 work face mining in Anhui Province, China, the height of the caved zone, fractured zone, continuous bending zone, and the placement of each important strata are all inferred by the model using the drilling holes’ physical and mechanical parameters. Assuming 7221 work face Longwall mining, the maximum deflection and volume of PKS are calculated and verified with 3DEC numerical simulation. Based on iso-volume, calculate the ground-moving basin inscribed function. The factors related to the grouting hole are analyzed, specifically focusing on the deflection and ground subsidence engraving function of the PKS in Isolated Overburden Grout Injection mining. The accuracy of PKS deflection after grouting was verified using 3DEC. The Small Baseline Subset (SBAS) technique was also employed to interpret satellite pictures from Sentinel I-A for ground subsidence monitoring. Model calculations, SBAS monitoring results, and measurements were cross-validated. This paper aims to quantitatively analyze deflection values, deflection volumes, and maximum ground subsidence for the PKS under two mining methods: Longwall mining and the Isolated Overburden Grout Injection technology. Applying the technology in the mining field involves deducing the mechanical mechanism and thoroughly verifying the actual subsidence and reduction impact.
Prevalence and Co-Occurrence of Preventable Risk Factors for Noncommunicable Diseases in University Students
Authors: Cicekli Ipek , Eskin Serap Gokce
Published: March 2024

Background:Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the major cause of mortality globally. This study aimed to examine the prevalence and co-occurence of lifestyle risk factors in university students.
Methods:The research is as an analytical-cross-sectional study and it started in January 2022, lasted a total of 3 months until April 2022. A total of 485 students were included in the study. The structured data collection form was created by the researchers in the light of the literature review and face-to-face applied to students. This study's lifestyle risk variables for NCDs included physical inactivity, low fruit and vegetable consumption, alcohol use, tobacco use, being overweight/obesity and SSB consumption. The data was analyzed in the SPSS 2021 package program.
Results:The most frequent risk factor was insufficient physical activity (89.2%), followed by low fruits consumption (58.9%), low vegetable consumption (70.5%), alcohol consumption (44.5%), SSBs consumption (41.1%), tobacco use (25.2%), and being overweight or obesity (14.9%). Overall, 51.2% (46.5; 56.0) of students have a four or more risk factors. Co-occurrence of four or more lifestyle risk factors was significantly higher in students in private university (aOR:2.01 95% CI: 1.2; 3.35), living in student house (aOR:3.5795% CI: 1.96; 6.5), and fast food preference when eating outside (a0R:2.53 95% CI:1.62; 3.96).
Conclusions: Our findings point to potential interventions for NCD risk factors. More research is required to determine the impact of actions on risk factor reduction clustering and intervention-focused.
Takotsubo syndrome with apical thrombosis associated with a hyperthyroidism crisis: A case report from high-altitude Tibet
Authors: Zhang Lanxin , Wang Yi , li Wen hua , Lu Cong , Zeng jie , Zuo Mingliang , Li Chun mei , Wang Kai , Huang Bin , Yin Lixue , Zhang Hongmei , Zhang Qingfeng
Published: March 2024

Background
The pathophysiological mechanism of Takotsubo syndrome (TTS) has not been clarified. Although it is associated with catecholamine storm, the occurrence of TTS with thrombus directly related to hyperthyroidism is rare. The patient resides in a high plateau, which is more susceptible to ischemia and hypoxia.
Case Summary
A 65-year-old female, residing at an altitude of 3200 meters, was admitted to the hospital presenting with abdominal and chest pain. She exhibited tachycardia along with extensive ST-segment elevation, and elevated levels of troponin T and B-natriuretic peptide. As her ST elevation gradually diminished during her hospitalization, the data did not align with a diagnosis of acute myocardial infarction. However, markedly increased levels of thyroid hormone and thyrotropin receptors suggested the possibility of a hyperthyroidism crisis. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) was conducted, revealing hypokinesia of the mid and apical segments of the left ventricle with characteristic apical ballooning. The left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) of 49% and an apical thrombus were detected. Myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) showed delayed and slightly sparse myocardial perfusion in the middle and apical segment of the left ventricle. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the presence of an apical thrombus without enhancement, indicating no apparent abnormalities in the first perfusion and delayed enhancement, ruling out remote myocardial injury. Additionally, a slight increase in myocardial enzymes and a rapid decline in ST segment further supported the diagnosis of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy. Hence, treatment commenced with beta-blockers, antithyroxine synthesis inhibitors, anticoagulation therapy, and measures to improve oxidative stress. As a result, the thrombus decreased in size, and cardiac function improved.
Conclusion
In TTS, excessive thyroid hormone levels can upregulate adrenergic receptors, leading to increased myocardial chronotropy and a positive myocardial response to catecholamines. Furthermore, in Tibetan regions where ischemia and hypoxia are more prevalent, coronary microvascular vasoconstriction and dysfunction may contribute to myocardial dysfunction in TTS.
Biomechanical Analysis of Kinetic Variables and Plantar Pressure Distribution: A Comparison between Elite Alpine Skiers, Cross-Country Skiers, and Non-Athletes during Walking
Authors: Mimar Raghad , Fadaei Hamed , pezeshki Atefeh , moghimkhan Zahra
Published: March 2024

This study explores plantar pressure distribution (PPD) during walking in three groups: elite Alpine Skiers (Alp), Cross-Country Skiers (XC), and Non-Athletes (NA). Using the emed c50 platform, PPD parameters were measured, and ANOVA with post hoc Tukey tests conducted. Notable variations in vertical ground reaction forces (VGRF) and peak pressures emerged. Alp had lower VGRF in lateral heel, hallux, and metatarsals (third to fifth), with higher force in the second metatarsal than XC. Alp's peak pressure decreased in lateral heel and hallux but increased in lateral midfoot and third to fifth toes compared to XC and NA. Alp displayed smaller contact areas in certain regions (lateral heel, medial midfoot, and metatarsals third to fifth), with larger areas in medial midfoot and third and fifth toes. Alp had reduced ground contact time in the second metatarsal compared to NA. Center of Pressure (COP) displacement analysis revealed distinct patterns. Alp had reduced heel displacement, XC less midfoot displacement. Both Alp and XC showed shorter COP displacement times in midfoot compared to NA. In conclusion, despite the consistent arch index, these findings underscore the profound impact of skiing Activities, especially in Alp, on various biomechanical parameters. This research holds significance for foot health assessment, motion optimization, athlete differentiation, and the development of targeted training strategies in Alpine and Cross-Country skiing
Validation of the Arabic-language version of the Eating-Related Eco Concern (EREC) scale
Authors: Zouki Christian-Joseph El , Obeid Sahar , Malaeb Diana , Sakr Fouad , Dabbous Mariam , Khatib Sami El , Hallit Souheil , Fekih-Romdhane Feten
Published: March 2024

Background: The concept of eating-related eco-concern (EREC) has recently been introduced to the literature to designate the way in which eco-concern may impact disordered eating. Researchers suggest that the EREC may tap into a unique dimension of disordered eating behavior not addressed by commonly used disordered eating measures. This study aims to analyze the factor structure, reliability, cross-sex measurement invariance and validity of the Arabic-language version of the Eating-Related Eco-Concern Scale (EREC) among adults from the general population.
Methods: This cross-sectional research enrolled 763 Lebanese adults who participated by completing the newly translated Arabic version of the EREC Scale via an online survey. We followed the EFA-CFA strategy to validate the scale.
Results: Both EFA and CFA showed a one-factor structure. The reliability was excellent as shown via the alpha coefficient (= .91) and the omega coefficient (= .91) in the CFA. The invariance across sex was established at the configural, metric, and scalar levels for the EREC scale. No statistically significant difference between males and females was found in terms of EREC scores. More eating-related eco concerns correlated significantly and positively with higher climate anxiety and eco-guilt, attesting to its concurrent validity.
Conclusion: Our findings affirm the reliability and validity of the Arabic adaptation of the EREC Scale. This brief and simple tool could be used across different settings among the Arabic-speaking population and encourage cross-cultural research on matters in the intersection of climate, eating habits and mental well-being.
Impact of hyperhomocysteinemiaon carotid intima-media thickness in type 2 diabetes mellituswith or without hypertension: a retrospective observational study
Authors: Ao Li , liu Ling , Suo Lixia , Liang Dongyu , Niu Jingya , Yang Qin , Ren Dongmei
Published: March 2024

Background: The influence of hyperhomocysteinemia on carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and its interplay with hypertension remains uncertain. This study aimed to investigate the impact of hyperhomocysteinemia on CIMT in patients with T2DM, both with and without coexisting hypertension.
Methods: This retrospective observational study was conducted at Shanghai Jiading District Central Hospital, enrolling patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) between January 2019 and December 2020. Data on serum homocysteine levels and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) were collected. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to investigate the potential risk factors associated with CIMT in the entire cohort of T2DM patients and within specific hypertension subgroups.
Results: The study sample comprised 423 patients diagnosed with T2DM, with a mean age of 59.99±14.59 years, including 258 males (60.99%), 258 hypertension patients (60.99%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between hyperhomocysteinemia and carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) in all T2DM patients (odds ratio [OR]=2.942, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.356-6.386, P=0.006) and among patients with coexisting hypertension (OR=2.840, 95%CI: 1.153-6.999, P=0.040). However, no significant association was observed between hyperhomocysteinemia and CIMT in patients without hypertension (OR=1.123, 95%CI: 0.329-3.383, P=0.194).
Conclusion: The findings highlight hyperhomocysteinemia as an independent risk factor for CIMT thickening in patients with T2DM, particularly among those with concomitant hypertension. These results underscore the importance of managing hyperhomocysteinemia in T2DM patients, particularly those with hypertension, to mitigate the risk of CIMT thickening and subsequent cardiovascular events.
Arabidopsis SDG proteins mediate Polycomb removal and transcription-coupled H3K36 methylation for gene activation
Authors: Yamaguchi Nobutoshi , Yicong Wang , Abe Masato , Kadoya Yuka , Saiki Takeru , Imai Kanae , Wang Xuejing , To Taiko , Inagaki Soichi , Suzuki Takamasa , Kakutani Tetsuji , Ito Toshiro
Published: March 2024

Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 (PRC2) recognizes Polycomb response elements (PREs) and catalyzes trimethylation of histone H3 on lysine 27 (H3K27me3) for gene silencing. This silencing is counteracted by H3K36 methylation for epigenetic activation of gene expression. Here, we show that the Arabidopsis thaliana H3K36 methyltransferases SET DOMAIN-CONTAINING PROTEIN 7 (SDG7) and SDG8 antagonize PRC2-mediated silencing and establish H3K36 methylation patterns with the general transcription machinery. The sdg7 sdg8 double mutant shows developmental defects and lower H3K36me2 and H3K36me3 levels. SDG7 preferentially binds near PREs, but SDG8 is recruited to H3K36 methylation peaks. The sdg7 sdg8 phenotypes are partially rescued by loss of Polycomb function. SDG7 overlaps with PRC2 and its recruiters on chromatin and evicts them from shared target genes when conditionally induced. SDG8 and RNA Polymerase II associate at SDG- and RNA POLYMERASE II ASSOCIATED FACTOR 1 complex-regulated targets for H3K36 methylation and transcription. These results suggest that SDG proteins evict PRC2 from PREs to prevent H3K27me3 deposition and activate target genes via transcription-coupled H3K36 methylation.
Plasma Ionomic Profile and Interaction Patterns in Coronary Artery Disease Patients
Authors: Zhao Qing-Qing , Shu Xian-Long , Yuan Zhen , Gao Qian , Huang Ying , Yang Yuan-Qing , Li Ming-Peng , Wang Guo , Chen Xiao-Ping , Chen Bi-Lian , Tang Jie
Published: March 2024

Humans are exposed to various chemical elements that have been associated with the development and progression of diseases such as coronary artery disease (CAD). However, existing research has primarily focused on the relationships between individual elements and CAD without considering the overall ionomic profile. Therefore, our aim is to employ a multi-element approach to investigate CAD patients and those with comorbid conditions such as diabetes (CAD-DIA), high blood pressure (CAD-HBP), or high blood lipids (CAD-HBL). Plasma concentrations of 21 elements, including lithium, boron, aluminum, calcium, titanium, vanadium, chromium, manganese, ferrum, cobalt, nickel, copper, zinc, arsenic, selenium, strontium, cadmium, stannum, stibium, barium, and plumbum, were measured in CAD patients (n = 201) and healthy subjects (n = 110) using inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) models were utilized to analyze the ionomic profiles. Spearman correlation analysis was employed to identify the interaction patterns among individual elements. We found that levels of Ba, Li, and Pb were elevated in the CAD group compared to the healthy group, while Sb, Ti, Fe, and Se were lower. Furthermore, the CAD-DIA group exhibited higher levels of Ni and Cd, while the CAD-HBP group showed lower levels of Co and Mn. In the CAD-HBL group, Ti was increased, whereas Ba, Cr, Cu, Co, Mn, Ni, and Ti were reduced. In conclusion, ionomic profiles can be utilized to differentiate CAD patients from healthy individuals, potentially providing insights for future treatment or dietary interventions.
Group 2i Isochrysidales thrive in marine and lacustrine systems with ice cover
Authors: Wang Karen J , Huang Yongsong , Kartzinel Tyler , Majaneva Markus , Richter Nora , Liao Sian
Published: March 2024

Global warming is causing rapid changes to the cryosphere. Predicting the future trajectory of the cryosphere requires quantitative reconstruction of its past variations. A recently identified sea-ice-associated haptophyte, known as Group 2i Isochrysidales, has given rise to a new quantitative sea-ice proxy with its characteristic alkenone distributions. However, apart from the occurrence of Group 2i Isochrysidales in regions with sea ice, and the empirical relationship between C37:4 alkenone abundance and sea-ice concentration, little is known about the ecology of these haptophyte species. Here, we systematically mapped the spatial and temporal occurrence of known Group 2i Isochrysidales based on environmental DNA and alkenones in both marine and lacustrine environments. Our results indicate Group 2i is widely distributed in icy marine and lacustrine environments in both Northern and Southern Hemisphere, but absent in ice-free environments. Temporally, Group 2i is part of the sea-ice algae bloom during the cold seasons, in contrast to other Isochrysidales that bloom in open waters during warm seasons. Our results indicate that ice is a prerequisite for the occurrence of the psychrophilic Group 2i haptophytes in marine and lacustrine ecosystems and further affirms its value for past ice reconstructions.
Results Comparison of Cervical Cancer Early Detection Using Cerviray with VIA Test
Authors: Harsono Ali Budi , Susiarno Hadi , Suardi Dodi , Mantilidewi Kemala Isnainiasih , Wibowo Viko Duvadilan , Hidayat Yudi Mulyana
Published: March 2024

Objectives
This study investigates the performance of Cerviray A.I. and evaluation of Cerviray A.I. by an expert, an artificial intelligence (AI) technology for diagnosing cervical cancer, aiming to compare its sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC ROC) with the Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA) test.
Results
The study involved 44 patients from various health centers in West Java Province. Cerviray A.I., evaluation of Cerviray® A.I. by an expert, and VIA tests were administered to high-risk women of childbearing age. Preliminary results indicated that Cerviray A.I. had a sensitivity of 42.9%, specificity and PPV of 100%, and an AUC ROC of 71.4%. In comparison, the evaluation of Cerviray by an expert demonstrated a sensitivity of 71.4%, specificity of 97.3%, PPV of 83.3%, and AUC ROC of 84.4%. Evaluation of Cerviray A.I. by an expert outperformed Cerviray A.I. in AUC ROC.
Utilization of Cervical Cancer Screening and associated factors among HIV-positive Women attending Public Hospitals in North Shoa, Ethiopia, mixed study
Authors: Chuko Bacha Merga , Gindaba Mitiku Yonas , Marami Shambal Negese , Feyisa Mulugeta , Kibrat Fikiru Assefa , Geda Gebreyes Mengistu
Published: March 2024

Introduction
Cervical cancer screening is used to find changes in the cells of the cervix that could lead to cancer. Despite, screening is one of the secondary preventive strategies, the case is still growing. Therefore, the study aimed to assess the utilization of cervical cancer screening services and associated factors among Women living with human immunodeficiency virus at public hospitals in North Shoa, Ethiopia, 2022.
Methods and materials:
A mixed-study method among 396 women was conducted from April 1-June 25, 2022. Systematic random sampling was used to select women for face–to–face interviews and purposive sampling was used to select 18 mothers for in-depth interviews. The bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were done. The data were collected through the face-to-face interview by a structured questionnaire. For analysis, the data were entered into Epi data version 4.6 and exported to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 26 software. Bivariate analysis for candidate variables selection (p< 0.25) was used. Multivariable analysis for p-value < 0.05 and 95% confidence level were considered as significantly associated. Results: The proportion of cervical cancer screening utilization among HIV-positive women was 12.1%, 95% confidence interval of 9%- 15%. Variables like an age between 40-49 years [AOR = 3.65; 95%CI=1.20, 11.07], having college above educational level [AOR = 3.04; 95% CI: 1.05, 8.80], Urban residents [AOR = 3.49; 95%CI=1.64, 7.44], and having good knowledge [AOR 3.9; 95%CI: 1.70, 8.83] were significantly associated with utilization of cervical cancer screening service. Service interruption, poor awareness, and rumor were barrier of utilization of cervical cancer screening among HIV-positive women. The results were presented by tables, text, and charts.
Conclusion and recommendation:
The finding of this study showed that only one in ten HIV-positive women was screened. We recommend that increasing women’s knowledge about cervical cancer screening, particularly targeting the younger ones, is crucial to enhance the utilization of screening and promote health education among rural women so that recommended cervical cancer screening can be utilized more effectively.
Grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.) - a potential leafy vegetable of eastern India
Authors: Tripathi Kuldeep , Kumari Shubha , pamarthi Ravi , Mukherjee A , KR Ramya , Bhardwaj Rakesh , PANDA RINKY RESMA , Semwal DP , Bhatt KC , Viswakarma P , Gautam Raj , Singh PK
Published: March 2024

Grasspea (Lathyrus sativusL.) locally known as “Khesari” was extensively cultivated in Eastern parts of India i.e. Eastern U.P, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. This study focuses on the exploration, collection, and survey of grasspea as leafy vegetable with the aim of revitalizing traditional knowledge for practical applications. The data on collected grasspea samples (46 accessions) from five germplasm expedition missions were presented in the study. These were subjected to garret ranking and biochemical profiling along with organoleptic evaluation. The findings of the study elucidated that the preference of grasspea consumption in the descending order: leafy vegetable > pulse > fodder > by-products/ processed product. The nutritional profiling of leaves of selected accessions of grasspea were assessed for proximate parametrs. This comprehensive study provides valuable insights into use and preferences associated with grasspea consumption in Eastern India, paving the way for practical applications and the revival of traditional knowledge.
The Impact of Industry Expertise Independent Directors on Corporate Financialization: The Case of Chinese Nonfinancial Corporations
Authors: He Xingxing , Qin Lanli , Sun Yu , Zhang Fenghui
Published: March 2024

China's economic development has faced multiple challenges, such as the weakening of traditional growth momentum, frequent risks in the financial sector, and prominent structural contradictions, and the phenomenon of capital flow from real enterprises to the virtual economy has become more and more prominent This paper takes A-share non-financial listed companies from 2010 to 2022 as the research object, and empirically examines the impact of industry expert independent directors on corporate financialization The results show that industry expert independent directors can effectively inhibit the financialization of enterprises, and the inhibition effect is more prominent in non-state-owned enterprises .The industry expert independent directors can inhibit the financialization of enterprises by narrowing the gap between corporate operating income and financial income, and alleviating internal and external financing constraints In addition, the higher the degree of marketization of the company's location, the stronger the inhibitory effect.
Research on Automatic Generation Technology of Cooling Channels for Injection Mold of Automotive Interior Door Panel
Authors: Wang Jing , Wu Haojie
Published: March 2024

The automotive interior door panel is an important injection molded part in automotive interiors, and a good cooling system is crucial to ensure its molding quality. In fact, due to the complex structure of the automotive interior door panel mold, designing hundreds of cooling channels inside it is often a very tedious and time-consuming task. For a long time, designers can only rely on basic modeling tools and build cooling channels through a large number of interactive operations, which will require a lot of time and effort. To solve this problem, this paper proposes an automatic generation method for cooling channels from a practical perspective based on the basic structural characteristics of cooling channels and the basic rules of mold cooling system design. The basic idea is to first offset adjacent boundary lines on the side of the mold core, and generate a series of scan lines starting from the intersection of the offset lines; Then generate channel entities with specified channel diameters along the scanning line, and perform interference checks on all generated channels; Finally, optimize the positions of all channels and remove unsuitable ones. Experimental results show that this method is simple and practical, and can quickly generate cooling channels that meet the requirements, greatly saving design time, reducing design errors, and improving design efficiency.
Linking Fatty Acid Metabolism to Diabetic Cardiomyopathy: The Role of Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Immune Microenvironment Alterations, a Bioinformatics Approach
Authors: Ni Tingjuan , Huang Xingxiao , Pan Sunlei , Wu Ziliang , Wu Xixi
Published: March 2024

Background
Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) stands as a prevalent cardiovascular complication of diabetes and a primary contributor to mortality among diabetic patients. The pathogenesis of DCM is intricately linked to both fatty acid metabolism (Facm) and immune-inflammation; however, the interplay between these factors in the context of DCM remains a subject of ongoing inquiry. This study seeks to delineate the unique contributions of fatty acid metabolism and the immune microenvironment, as well as their interconnectedness in the progression of DCM, utilizing bioinformatics methodologies.
Methods
The RNA expression dataset for DCM was acquired from the NCBI GEO database. Following data preprocessing, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the DCM and control group were identified and overlapped with genes related to fatty acid metabolism genes (Facms). The CIBERSORT algorithm was employed to assess immune infiltration within the cardiac tissue. Finally, validation analysis was carried out using animal and cell models. A mice DCM models was developed to authenticate the expression of hub FacmDEGs and their correlation with cardiac function.
Results
Five hub FacmDEGs (Acot2, Eci1, Ehhadh, Acaa2 and Hadha) were identified as closely linked to DCM. Despite the absence of significant differences in immune cell infiltration demonstrated between the DCM and control (CON) groups in myocardial tissue, the results of immune infiltration analysis revealed a close association of the five hub FacmDEGs with immune cells, especially Th1 Cells and DC Active cell. In the animal and cell experiment, the expression of Acot2 and Eci1 were found to be in accordance with the results of the bioinformatics analysis. Furthermore, the up-regulation of Acot2 and Eci1 was distinctly associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and cardiac dysfunction.
Conclusions This study has unveiled the complicated interaction between fatty acid metabolism and the immune microenvironment in DCM through the lens of mitochondrial dysfunction, providing novel insights into the underlying pathogenesis of DCM and opening avenues for exploring new targets for pharmacological interventions.
The arming of NK cells with Fc-engineered rituximab confers them specificity against CD20-expressing cells
Authors: Villalba Martin , Constantinides Michaël , Coënon Loïs , de Maudave Alexis Fayd'Herb , Multrier Caroline , Campos-Mora Mauricio , Jacquard Carine , Gao Fei , Martineau Pierre , robert bruno , Cartron Guillaume
Published: March 2024

Clinical effects of IgG1 monoclonal antibodies (mAb) relies on various mechanisms, including antibody dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC), which requires natural killer (NK) cells as the main immune effectors. These cells are emerging as significant tools for cancer cell therapies, presenting a potential alternative to Chimeric Antigen Receptor-T (CAR-T) cell therapies. We generated in vitro expanded NK cells (eNK) and investigated the feasibility of loading them with a Fc-modified rituximab (RTX) displaying high affinity for CD16a. We demonstrated that the Fc modified RTX (SDH-RTX: S239D/H268F/S324T/I332E) can be effectively loaded onto eNK cells, resulting in what we termed “armed eNK”. The SDH-RTX-armed eNK retained SDH-RTX in the presence of physiological concentrations of IgG1 and exhibited specific cytotoxic activity against CD20-positive cells, including cell lines and samples from NHL and B-CLL patients. Remarkably, armed eNK cells demonstrated comparable ADCC to eNK cells in the presence of an excess of RTX. Importantly, arming eNK cells did not compromise their natural cytotoxicity against other target cells. These findings pave the way to innovative approaches utilizing armed eNK as a form of “non-genetically modified CAR-like” NK cells to treat diseases susceptible to mAb targeting. This approach offers the advantages of reduced mAb requirement and versatile specificity.
SCECA U-Net Crop Classification for UAV Remote Sensing Image
Authors: yan Hangjia , Liu Gang , Li Zhe , Li Zhi , He Jing
Published: March 2024

Accurately identifying crop distribution is beneficial for assessing crop growth,yield,and disasters. Crop identification is influenced by terrain and complex ecological environments,considering the challenges posed by traditional remote sensing methods such as cost,sensitivity to westher conditions, and limitations in accurately extracting crop festures.Therefore,we selected unmanned aerial vehicle(UAV) remote sensing images of Majiaoba Town, Mianyang City,Sichuan Province,China,aiming to identify and classify various crops in the region,including soybeans,corn,rice,ginger and walunts.We propose using theVGG-16 (Visual Geography Group Network-16) architecture as the main framework,enhancing it by integrating efficient channel ateention(ECA) modules into the U-Net model.It is worth noting that the improved model achieved an impressive F1-Score of 0.78,emphasizing its effectiveness in crop classification. Experimental results show that the method achieves a comprehensive classification accuracy of 79.44% and an average cross-combination rate of 0.64.Our approach outperforms traditional U-Net,PSPNet(Pyramid Scene Parsing Network),and deeplabv3+ models in terms of classification accuracy and metrics, highlighting its advantages in crop identification.
Are competitive interactions between aphid clones mediated by facultative endosymbionts?
Authors: Moya-Hernández Mario G. , Rubio-Meléndez María E. , Zepeda-Paulo Francisca A. , Ramírez Claudio C.
Published: March 2024

Bacterial endosymbionts are key components of aphid biology, as they modify several traits of their insect hosts. Here we studied how bacterial facultative endosymbionts affect the competitive interactions between aphid clones. To address this, we studied intraclonal and interclonal interactions between the two most common clones (G1 and G2) of the cereal aphid Sitobion avenae (Fabricius), including the role of the facultative endosymbiont Regiella insecticola in the outcome of these interactions in a shared host (wheat). The results of this study reveal significant variability in the population growth rates of aphid clones under competitive and non-competitive environments. That trade-off in competitive interactions among aphid clones can influence the dynamics of aphid populations and impact on plant growth and structure. While facultative endosymbionts like R. insecticola do not play a significant role in directly mediating the competitive interactions of aphid clones or affecting specific plant traits, their presence does enhance aphid performance. Aphids harbouring R. insecticola showed higher growth rates in various coexistence scenarios and across different clones with a concurrently reduced capacity to damage host plants, which suggests that R. insecticola produces ecologically relevant consequences for aphids in cereal fields.
Dams are old and abandoned, are people concerned? Risk perceptions from Michigan, USA
Authors: Mayer Adam Peter , Schooley Jackson , Parks Perry , Lopez Maria Claudia , Moran Emilio
Published: March 2024

Dams across the U.S. are in a precarious state. Many have been in disrepair for decades and the entities that built them have long since disappeared, raising difficult questions as to who will manage this growing problem. Despite the state of the nation’s dams, we know very little about public perceptions of dams. In this analysis, we evaluate public concern for dams using survey data from Michigan, a state with an extensive network of aging dams. Using a survey experiment, we find that risk perceptions increased when respondents were provided information about the age of the dams. Respondents identified as “news junkies” also expressed higher risk perceptions. We also tested for “white male” and partisan effects on risk perception but found little evidence of those. We conclude by discussing implications for policy and the future of dam management.
Understanding the Relationship Between Immune Cells and Sepsis Through Mendelian Randomization and Single-Cell Transcriptome Analysis
Authors: Deng Ruiming , Liao Qizhi , Fang Yan , Huang Guiming , Zhou Juan
Published: March 2024

Background:Sepsis is a condition characterized by an immune system imbalance, leading to high rates of morbidity and mortality. Although immune cells have the ability to eliminate infection, they can also cause tissue damage. Therefore, understanding the role of different immune cells in sepsis is crucial for effective treatment.Purpose:The goal of this research is to examine the correlation between sepsis and immune cells, as well as their specific traits, through the utilization of Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis and single-cell transcriptome analysis.Method:To investigate the causal association between immune cell signals and the susceptibility to sepsis, we conducted a comprehensive two-sample MR analysis utilizing publicly accessible genetic data. The analysis focused on four types of immune signals: median fluorescence intensity (MFI), relative cell number (RC), absolute cell number (AC), and morphological parameters (MP). Additionally, single-cell transcriptome sequencing data analysis techniques were used to explore the characteristics of immune cells in sepsis.Result:After correcting for multiple testing, there was no statistically significant impact of sepsis on immune phenotype. However, our research findings support the notion that the FSC-A parameter on the HLA DR+natural killer immune cell phenotype has a protective effect against sepsis. Furthermore, analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing data revealed a significant increase in theS100A8+S100A9+neutrophil subpopulation in sepsis, while the proportion of T cells was significantly lower compared to healthy controls.Conclusion:Our results suggest that HLA DR+natural killer cells have a significant protective effect on sepsis. Additionally, theS100A8+S100A9+neutrophil subpopulation is significantly increased in sepsis.
Computational Analysis of Various Battery Packs Used in Electric Vehicles to Improvise Their Thermal Performance
Authors: Shrivastava Pratiksha , Tiwari A. C.
Published: March 2024

Renewable Energies have the capability to cut down the severe impacts of energy and environmental crisis. The lithium-ion battery is introduced in this sector as a solution with a promising role in storage sector on the grounds of high mass and volumetric energy density. Researchers have developed a battery thermal management system using phase change materials to improve electric vehicle performance. The simulation results showed that PCM cooling can reduce battery temperature fluctuations and increase efficiency. The study suggests that PCM cooling can significantly improve the performance of electric vehicles, despite the constraints of battery life, price, durability, and safety.