bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teaching User Experience Design in-Context: A Case Study on Immersive Learning with a Playable Case Study Simulation
Authors: Hughes Amanda Lee , England Tanner , Bradley Ezra , McClellan Trevor , Balzotti Jon , Hansen Derek L.
Published: April 2024

This paper explores the potential of using educational simulations, specifically Playable Case Studies (PCS), in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) courses. We present Cyclops, a PCS developed for an introductory HCI class, as an example of how simulations can provide immersive learning opportunities for students in the field of HCI. The PCS Cyclops places learners in a fictional Virtual Reality game company where they take on the role of a user experience (UX) researcher. Through this simulation, learners experience HCI roles in an authentic workplace context, develop skills in analyzing user testing data, and practice ethical decision making in a low-risk environment. We report on a case study where we deployed and evaluated the use of the Cyclops PCS in an introductory HCI design class. Students reported an improved understanding of the UX profession after completing the PCS, including both the social and technical skills required for the work. They also reported an increased confidence in pursuing careers in HCI/UX. While the realism embedded in the PCS played a key role in fostering a genuine sense of the professional UX context, the paper acknowledges challenges in balancing workplace ambiguity and complexity with the need to provide students with clear structure to complete the simulation. Strategies for improving the PCS are discussed. We demonstrate how PCSs offer a versatile and adaptable educational framework that can be tailored to suit the unique challenges and objectives of HCI/UX as well as different fields.
Extracts of Hylotelephium erythrostictum (Miq.) H. Ohba ameliorate intestinal injury by scavenging ROS and inhibiting multiple signaling pathways in Drosophila
Authors: Kim Hyonil , Yi Xinyu , Xue Hongmei , Yue Guanhua , Zhu Jiahua , Eh Tongju , Wang Sihong , Jin Li Hua
Published: April 2024

Background
The intestinal epithelial barrier is the first line of defense against pathogens and noxious substances entering the body from the outside world. Through proliferation and differentiation, intestinal stem cells play vital roles in tissue regeneration, repair, and the maintenance of intestinal homeostasis. Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is caused by the disruption of intestinal homeostasis through the invasion of toxic compounds and pathogenic microorganisms. Hylotelephium erythrostictum (Miq.) H. Ohba (H. erythrostictum) is a plant with diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antirheumatic properties. However, the roles of H. erythrostictum and its bioactive compounds in the treatment of intestinal injury are unknown.
Methods
We examined the protective effects of H. erythrostictum water extract (HEWE) and H. erythrostictum butanol extract (HEBE) on Drosophila intestinal injury caused by dextran sodium sulfate (DSS) or Erwinia carotovora carotovora 15 (Ecc15).
Results
Our findings demonstrated that both HEWE and HEBE significantly prolonged the lifespan of flies fed toxic compounds, reduced cell mortality, and maintained intestinal integrity and gut acid‒base homeostasis. Furthermore, both HEWE and HEBE eliminated DSS-induced ROS accumulation, alleviated the increases in antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) and intestinal lipid droplets caused by Ecc15 infection, and prevented excessive ISC proliferation and differentiation by inhibiting the JNK, EGFR, and JAK/STAT pathways. In addition, they reversed the significant changes in the proportions of the gut microbiota induced by DSS. The bioactive compounds contained in H. erythrostictum extracts have sufficient potential for use as natural therapeutic agents for the treatment of IBD in humans.
Conclusion
Our results suggest that HEWE and HEBE are highly effective in reducing intestinal inflammation and thus have the potential to be viable therapeutic agents for the treatment of IBD.
Conversion of farmland to forest or grassland improved soil C, N and multi-functionality in a subtropical karst region, southwest China
Authors: Zhang Lijin , Du Hu , Song Tongqing , Yang Zhiqi , Peng Wanxia , Gong Jialiang , Huang Guoqin , Li Yun
Published: April 2024

The conversion of farmland to forest in China has been recognized for its positive impact on above-ground vegetation greening and carbon sequestration. However, the importance of soil functions in these conversion models, particularly in vulnerable karst areas, has received less attention. In this study conducted in a karst area of southwest China, eight different returning models (GM, GZ, ZI, TS, CM, AC, ZL) were investigated to assess soil carbon, nitrogen, and soil multi-functionality in the surface soil. The results showed significantly higher total carbon (TC), soil organic carbon (SOC), soil active organic carbon (AOC) and, ammonium nitrogen (AN) in afforestation land and abandonment land compared to grassland and maize crop area. Moreover, soluble organic carbon (DOC) was significantly higher in afforestation land and grassland compared to the maize crop area. Grassland and abandonment land exhibited significantly higher levels of NO3--N compared to afforestation land and maize crop. However, no significant difference in concentration of NH4+-N was found in afforestation land (except ZI) than between grassland and abandonment land. Regardless of soil multi-functionality or carbon and nitrogen multi-functional, afforestation land consistently exhibited significantly higher values than grassland. Pearson correlation analysis indicated positive correlations between soil indices and ecosystem multi-functionality (EMF), except for NO3--N.Random forest analysis, which explained 95% of the variation in soil EMF, identified the AOCL, SOC, TN, AN and TC as the main drivers of soil multi-functionality. In conclusion, different models of returning farmland have the potential to enhance soil nutrient accumulation and improve soil multi-functionality in karst areas. These findings highlight the effectiveness of such models for sustainable soil management and production.
Quasi-geoid modelling of lake area with GNSS/ levelling data
Authors: Baogui Ke , Cui Zhao
Published: April 2024

It is of great significance to construct a quasi-geoid model for lake region to determine the water resources quantity. severe relief and shortage of gravity Quasi-geoidaround the lake is common situation, the accuracy difference of Quasi-geoidmodeling with Polynomial and Radial Basis Function is compared and analyzed by using GNSS/ leveling data, and the effect on the modeling accuracy as for the number of GNSS/ leveling data points is also analyzed. The results show that the Quasi-geoid model based on Radial Basis Function method has high precision and wide application range, and can meet the requirements of lake underwater terrain mapping.
Evaluation of the outcomes of biliary-enteric reconstruction in robotic radical resection of hilar cholangiocarcinoma: a single-centre propensity score matching analysis
Authors: Liu Jie , Dou Changwei , Chen Jian , Lu Yi , Liang Lei , Wei Fangqiang , Zhang Chengwu
Published: April 2024

Background
Although robotic radical resection for hilar cholangiocarcinoma(HCCA) has been reported in few cases in some large hepatobiliary centers, biliary-enteric reconstruction (BER) is still a critical step which restricts the success of the operation. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and quality of BER in robotic and laparoscopic radical resection of HCCA and propose technical recommendations.
Methods
A retrospective study was conducted on patients with HCCA who underwent minimally invasive radical resection at Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital from January 2016 to July 2023. A 1:2 propensity score matching (PSM), which is widely used to reduce selection bias, was performed to evaluate the surgical outcomes, especially BER-related data between robotic and laparoscopic surgery.
Results
46 HCCA patients were enrolled. After PSM at a ratio of 1:2, 10 and 20 patients were assigned to the robotic-assisted and laparoscopic groups, respectively. And the baseline characteristics of two groups were generally well balanced. The average time of liver resection in the robotic group was longer than that in the laparoscopic group( 139.5 ± 38.8 vs 108.1 ± 35.8, P = 0.036), but the former had less intraoperative blood loss(200(50–500) vs 310(100–850)), even though there was no statistical difference(P = 0.109). The biliary residuals number was 2.6 ± 1.3 and 2.7 ± 1.2(P = 0.795); the number of anastomoses were both 1.6 ± 0.7 in two groups(P = 0.965); the time of BER was 38.4 ± 13.6 and 59.1 ± 25.5 min(P = 0.024), 9.9 ± 2.8% and 15.4 ± 4.8% of the total operation time(P = 0.001). Although postoperative bile leakage incidence in laparoscopic group(40.0%)was higher than that in robotic group(10.0%), there was no significant difference between two groups(P = 0.204); 6.7 ± 4.4 and 12.1 ± 11.7 days for tube drawing(P = 0.019); anastomosis stenosis and calculus rate was 10.0% and 30.0% (P = 0.372), 0.0% and 15%(P = 0.532), respectively. Neither group had a hemorrhage or bile leakage-related death.
Conclusion
Robotic radical resection for HCCA may offer the comparable perioperative outcomes as conventional laparoscopic procedure, and tend to be associated with more advantages in terms of anastomosis time and quality, we are optimistic with its wide application in future with the improvement of surgical techniques and experience.
Experiences of residents in a therapeutic community model of drug addiction treatment in a mental hospital in Ghana
Authors: LINDSAY KWEKU EWUSIE ORLEANS , WOOD SANDRA FREDA , Abraham Susanna Aba , Kwamena Aidoo Ebenezer Ato
Published: April 2024

Background:
In Ghana, the use of illegal drugs and alcohol has been classified as endemic. To manage this menace, the Therapeutic Community model for Substance Used Disorders was introduced in Ghana about a decade ago as an alternative to other existing strategies. However, the effectiveness of this treatment modality for drug addiction in Panteng Mental Hospital and Accra Psychiatric Hospital has not been scientifically studied.
Objective:
This study, therefore, sought to explore the experiences of drug addicts or residents enrolled in the Therapeutic Community programme toward recovery from drug addiction.
Method:
This research employed an explorative-descriptive design. Participants (N=20) were enrolled purposively sampled and recruited into the study. Face-to-face interviews were conducted using a semi-structured guide and data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s descriptive phenomenology data analysis process.
Results:
Two main themes emerged from the data: “Why I stayed” (Motivation), and “All things are new” (Life transformation). The study pointed out that residents or participants mainly expressed positive experiences in the programme, including experiencing a sense of belongingness, enhanced self-esteem/self-worth, and most importantly, developing hope of a life free of addiction.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the study found that participants in the Therapeutic Community (TC) program generally had positive experiences and believed in its effectiveness for recovery. Factors such as a relaxed environment, supportive staff, and interactions with other residents contributed to their positive experience. The study discovered that motivation, a conducive environment for care, structured program activities, and relationships among residents were key factors that motivated participants to stay and actively participate in the therapeutic community program. These factors fostered hope and a sense of belonging, ultimately contributing to their recovery journey. However, participants expressed the need for self-actualization, which they hoped to achieve after completing the program and reintegrating into the community.
Assessment of disordered eating attitude and associated factors among female undergraduate students at Arba Minch University, Southern Ethiopia 2023
Authors: Damtie Addisalem , Meried Melkamu , Getie Asmare , Belayhun Yosef
Published: April 2024

Introduction
eating disorders significantly damage physical health and disturb psychosocial operation. The global burden of anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa among young females was estimated to account 1.9 million disability–adjusted life years. Even though earlier identification of disordered eating attitude is important to prevent more sever forms of eating disorder, there is scarce evidence at university students in Ethiopia. Therefore, conducting this study has paramount importance in recognition of these unfavourable attitudes and to take remedial action accordingly.
Objective
To assess disordered eating attitude and associated factors among Arba Minch university female students, Arba Minch, Southern Ethiopia, 2023
Methods
an institution based cross-sectional study was employed at Arba Minch University from January 1/2023 to April1/ 2023. A total of 600 study participants were included in the study. A simple random sampling technique was used to select participants. The data were collected using self-administered questionnaire, entered using Epi-Info software and exported to SPSS version 20 for analysis. A multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with eating disorder and variables with p-value < 0.05 were considered as statistically significant. Model fitness was checked using Hosmer and Lemeshow Goodness of fit test. The strength of association between the outcome variable and independent variables was measured by using adjusted odds ratio with the corresponding 95% confidence interval.
Result
The result of this study shows that the prevalence of disordered eating attitude among undergraduate female students of Arba Minch University is 11.5% (95% CI: 9.0-14.3). Specialization or department (AOR = 2.27, 95% CI; 1.06–4.86) and Body mass index (AOR = 5.83, 95% CI; 2.34–14.52) were found to be predictors for disordered eating attitude.
Conclusion and recommendation
the prevalence shouldn’t be under estimated and it’s possible to say many female students in Arba Minch University are susceptible for eating disorder. Body mass index and academic specialization or department were significantly associated with disordered eating attitude and can be considered as predictors of disordered eating attitude.
Prevalence of Malaria and Associated Factors among Children under 5 Years Following Mass Net Campaigns and Indoor Residual Spraying in Amolatar District-Northern Uganda: Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Orech Sam , Opollo Marc Sam , Ocen Francis , Akello Ruth Anne
Published: April 2024

Background: Mass LLIN distribution campaigns and indoor residual spraying (IRS) have been identified by the WHO as effective approaches for malaria prevention and control.
Despite the scale-up of interventions towards the control and elimination of malaria, it is still endemic in 91 countries worldwide, with 3.3 billion people at risk of developing it. In 2015, 212 million malaria cases occurred globally, resulting in 429,000 deaths, 92% of which were in Africa. In 2019, 409,000 people died of malaria—mostly vulnerable children in sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods: A community-based, cross-sectional research design using a quantitative data collection method was used. A semi-structured questionnaire was used. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with the prevalence of malaria among <5 years.
Results: The intended respondents (238) were interviewed, and up to 44.1% (105/238) of the children tested positive for malaria. According to the multivariate analysis, living with a married caretaker (AOR=2.54, 95% CI=1.23-5.25) had a statistically significant association with malaria incidence, and poor perceptions of LLIN use had 68% increased odds of contracting malaria. However, children who stayed far from water bodies (AOR=0.07, 95% CI=0.01-0.56) had reduced odds of developing malaria.
Conclusions and recommendations: Malaria remains the major public health problem among children under 5 years of age in the Amolatar district. Living with married caretakers, having poor perceptions of LLIN use and living near water bodies were risk factors for malaria. DHTs to strengthen malaria prevention and control strategies among children <5 years, health information dissemination about eliminating stagnating water bodies, and addressing poor perceptions of mothers of children <5 years.
Characterizing the Biopotency of Truncated Transgene Variants in rAAV8 viral vectors: Essential Considerations for Gene Therapy Applications
Authors: Fiedler Christian , Lengler Johannes , Gruber Bernadette , Scheindel Marcus , Büngener Carsten , Mittergradnegger Dominik , Bendik Marian , Kraus Barbara , Bort Juan A. Hernandez
Published: April 2024

Background
The production of recombinant Adeno-Associated Virus (rAAV) vectors for gene therapy applications is a critical process, especially when dealing with large transgenes that challenge the 4.7kb capacity limit of rAAV. We aimed to investigate the variances in recombinant rAAV samples post-ultracentrifugation produced in HEK293, focusing on those rAAV8s with either single-stranded (ss) or self-complementary (sc) DNA. Special attention was given to partially filled variants, which might reflect incomplete transgene structures in the manufacturing of rAAV8-FVIII and rAAV8-FIX. A variety of analytical techniques were applied to thoroughly examine these fractions.
Results
Our data revealed that the so-called "partially empty" capsids, which were presumed to have very low biological activity, actually showed biopotency levels and a significant contribution to the total vector preparation similar to that of the complete rAAV8 fractions. Observations extended to other rAAV8 variants in our lab, including those carrying ssDNA and scDNA for human coagulation factors IX Padua and FVIII. These findings highlight the need to reevaluate the criteria used to differentiate between full and empty rAAV capsids in the purification process.
Conclusions
Our approach was instrumental in discovering that fractions containing low full/empty ratios exhibited high biopotency. This information enabled us to pinpoint the location of truncated forms in the collected samples, thereby allowing us to choose the most suitable fractions for pooling. In addition, we hypothesize that an amount of these truncated forms might reconstitute into complete genes in host cells and therefore we propose a reconstitution model, challenging traditional views on the necessity of only full rAAV capsids for gene therapy treatments.
Alpine viper in changing climate: thermal ecology and prospects of a cold-adapted reptile in the warming Mediterranean
Authors: Mizsei Edvárd , Radovics Dávid , Rák Gergő , Budai Mátyás , Bancsik Barnabás , Szabolcs Márton , Sos Tibor , Lengyel Szabolcs
Published: April 2024

Climate change represents a fundamental threat to species adapted to cold alpine environments. We studied the thermal ecology of the endangered Greek meadow viper (Vipera graeca), an endemic venomous snake of fragmented alpine-subalpine meadows above 1600 m of the Pindos mountain range in Greece and Albania. We measured preferred body temperature in artificial thermal gradient, field body temperatures and the availability of environmental temperatures in five populations encompassing the entire geographic range of the species. We found that the preferred body temperature (Tp) differed between the northernmost and the southernmost populations and increased with female body size but did not depend on sex or the gravidity status of femalesTp increased with latitude but was unaffected by the phylogenetic position of the populations. We also found high accuracy of thermoregulation in V. graeca populations and variation in the thermal quality of habitats throughout the range. The overall effectiveness of thermoregulation was high, indicating that V. graeca successfully achieves its target temperatures and exploits the thermal landscape. Current climatic conditions limit the activity period by an estimated 1278 hours per year, which is expected to increase considerably under future climate change. Restricted time available for thermoregulation, foraging and reproduction will represent a serious threat to the fitness of individuals and the persistence of populations in addition to habitat loss due to mining, tourism or skiing and habitat degradation due to overgrazing in the shrinking mountaintop habitats of V. graeca.
Osteonecrosis of the Jaw (ONJ) Associated with Bevacizumab: A Case Series from the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) Database
Authors: Ahdi Hardeep , Wichelmann T. Adam , Pandravada Sasirekha , Ehrenpreis Eli
Published: April 2024

Introduction:
Osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ) is a rare but serious adverse drug reaction (ADR) historically associated with denosumab and bisphosphonate therapy. Studies have demonstrated an association between ONJ and bevacizumab, a VEGF inhibitor now used for a variety of malignancies. This study reviewed cases of bevacizumab associated ONJ reported to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database
Methods:
The FAERS database was searched for all reported cases of ONJ from 2010 to 2021. A dataset was created for bevacizumab-associated ONJ and demographics were summarized. Only adults (age 18 and older) and reports from healthcare professionals were included for analysis. Duplicate cases were removed. Cases lacking information on patient age or gender were excluded from review. A subgroup analysis was performed for subjects receiving bevacizumab without prior or concomitant denosumab or bisphosphonate therapy.
Results:
19,670 cases of ONJ were reported to the FAERS database between 2010 to 2021 with approximately half (9,556) containing complete patient demographic data. 146 cases (1.5% of the total) of bevacizumab-associated ONJ were identified. 96 (65.8%) of the patients were female and the average age was 60.9 years +/- 9.3 years. There were 34 cases without prior or concomitant bisphosphonate or denosumab therapy. Male gender occurred in 65% (22 of 34) of these cases and average age was 61 years +/- 12.0. Table/Figure 1 depicts clinical indications for each of these 34 cases. Gastrointestinal malignancies (i.e., colon cancer and esophageal cancer) were present in 6/34 (17.6%) cases without prior denosumab/bisphosphonate therapy, 5 patients of breast cancer (14.7%) and 5 cases of prostate cancer were also noted(14.7%).
Discussion:
146 cases of bevacizumab-associated ONJ have been reported to the FAERS database and 23% of these cases did not involve medications known to cause ONJ. GI malignancy was the most common primary malignancy for reports of bevacizumab-associated ONJ. Clinicians should consider ONJ as a potential adverse effect in patients with malignancies that are being treated with bevacizumab.
Binding Affinity Screening of Polyphenolic Compounds in Stachys Affinis extract (SAE) for their Potential Antioxidant and Anti- inflammatory Effects
Authors: Kim Hun Hwan , Jeong Se Hyo , Park Min Yeong , Bhosale Pritam Bhangwan , Abusaliya Abuyaseer , Lee Sang Joon , Heo Jeong Doo , Kim Hyun Wook , Seong Je Kyung , Kim Dong Il , Park Kwang Il , Kim Gon Sup
Published: April 2024

Free radical is a marker in various inflammatory diseases. The antioxidant effect protects us from this damage, which also plays an essential role in preventing inflammation. Inflammation protects the body from biological stimuli, and pro-inflammatory mediators are negatively affected in the immune system. Inflammation caused by LPS is an endotoxin found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, which induces immune cells to produce inflammatory cytokines such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS). Based on this, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of plant extracts were investigated. First, the main phenolic compounds for the five peaks obtained from Stachys Affinis Extract (SAE) were identified. The antioxidant effect of each phenolic compound was confirmed through HPLC analysis before and after the competitive binding reaction between DPPH and the extract. Afterward, the anti-inflammatory effect of each phenolic compound was confirmed through competitive binding between COX2 and the extract in HPLC analysis. Lastly, the anti-inflammatory effect of SAE was confirmed through in vitro experiments and also confirmed in terms of structural binding through molecular docking. This study confirmed that phenolic compounds in SAE extract have potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and may provide information for primary screening of medicinal plants.
Association of birth weight, childhood obesity, and age at menarche with ovarian function: an integrated Mendelian randomization study and bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Dang Chunxiao , Liu Pengfei , Liu Jinxing , Yu Xiao
Published: April 2024

Objective Observational studies have shown that birth weight, childhood obesity and age at menarche are associated with ovarian function, but there is still some controversy.
Methods We mainly uses the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method for analysis, conducting heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy and MR Steiger test to evaluate the robustness of the results and the strength of causal relationships. Finally, preliminary bioinformatics analysis was conducted to explore the underlying biological mechanisms.
Results Causal associations were found between childhood obesity, age at menarche and ovarian function, with a positive association between childhood obesity and ovarian dysfunction and a negative association between age at menarche and ovarian function. A total of 10 hub genes were identified, which are interconnected in an interaction network and play a role in the synthesis and secretion of lipids and parathyroid hormone.
Conclusions Our study genetically confirms the causal association between childhood obesity, age at menarche and ovarian function; childhood obesity increases the risk of primary ovarian failure, and the later the age at menarche, the lower the risk of ovarian failure, which may be related to alterations in metabolic pathways such as intracellular receptors-mediated alterations in lipids and hormones.
The study predicts and validates the overburden load and stability behaviors of top slab structures Based on hybrid intelligent modeling
Authors: Chen Qingfa , Liu Chenyang
Published: April 2024

It is important to determine the exact value of the overburden load on the tunnel roof to assess the stability of the roof, ho wever, th is parameter is poorly constrained. Based on this, we use the hybrid intelligence approach to deal with the nonlinear relationship between multiple parameters and the overlying load. Firstly, a multi parameter correlation visualization analysis is performed to determine two hidden layers (E 1 , E 2 ), and four parameters with the most influence on the overlying load were selected, which will be used as sample input parameters. Secondly, the top plate stability prediction is achieved by converting the input and output to a single thermal code, and then adding parameter thresholds that were continuously adjusted with training . This completes the structure of ANN IHHO model . Finally, the model is trained based on data driven by displacement inverse analysis and numerical experiments. The model prediction accuracy was then validated using a confusion matrix form . The validation results show that the trained ANN IHHO model has good accuracy and can predict the top plate stability under the condition of considering four parameters The proposed model provides a new way of thinking to determine the overburden load and stability of the top plate . This study proposes many new research ideas in the process of developing the model : First, the m ulti parameter correlation visualization analysis can be used in studies to assess the degree of correlation between parameters and results, also between parameters and parameters And most importantly, the visualization analysis can intuitively display the correlation degree . the introduction of displacement inverse analysis as a data acquisition method into the ANN model has proven to be feasible, and the method has the advantage of being low cost and easy to implement ; Third, the c onfusion matrix also shows good adaptability in verifying model prediction accuracy, especially for prediction models of rock stability The method proposed in this study to develop the model is also adapted to the prediction of other rock mechanical parameters.
Genomic landscape in the human vaginal microbiome links to host geographics and genetics
Authors: Chen Chen , Jie Zhuye , Liang Weiting , Ding Qiuxia , Tong Xin , Zhang Yunhong , Chen Na , Li Shenghui , Liu Xiaomin , Gao Hongqin , Huang Xincheng , Zhang Zhe , Liu Na , Xie Zhangwei , Wang Xiaman , Qi Le , Li Yumei , Xiao Liang , Zhang Shaoqiao , Jin Xin , Xu Xun , Yang Huanming , Wang Jian , Zhao Fangqing , Jia Huijue , Zhang Tao , Hao Lilan , Zhu Lan
Published: April 2024

The vaginal microbiota is essential for women’s health, yet its genomic diversity and host relevance remains incompletely characterized. Here we established a Chinese cohort with 10,281 vaginal metagenomes. We developed an extensive catalog of vaginal microbial genomes (VMG) by integrating 6,979 in-house metagenomes with 1,817 publicly available metagenomes and over 1,000 bacterial isolates. This catalog comprised 46,906 genomes from 913 prokaryotic species and 3,763 viral populations, with 23.8% of prokaryotes and 75.1% of viruses being not found in public reference databases. Leveraging VMG, we identified substantial intraspecies genomic and functional variations within the vaginal microbiome that display geographic specificity. Notably, this included the novel bacterium CAISGS01(ID u199), unique to Chinese samples with marked biosynthetic capabilities, as well as BVAB1, which exhibited distinct regional genomic variations in pathogenic potential. Moreover, by utilizing genome-resolved microbial profiles from the VMG, we conducted a metagenome-genome-wide association study involving 6,893 individuals, and identified 7 vaginal microbial taxa whose abundances were significantly associated with 31 host genomic loci, including a notable correlation between novel bacterium Prevotella (ID u35) and loci on 22p11.2 (beta = 1.51, p = 6.826 × 10− 38). These associations were consistently and robustly replicated across three independent cohorts. In summary, our research provides a vital reference for future studies on the genotype-phenotype interplay within the human vaginal microbiome.
Generic diversity and septal complexity in Cretaceous ammonoids. Effects of oceanic anoxic events on the ammonoid evolutionary dynamic.
Authors: Pérez-Claros Juan Antonio
Published: April 2024

In this paper it is analyzed the relationship between the number of genera of Cretaceous planiespiral ammonoids and their sutural complexity estimated by their fractal dimension. It is confirmed that the dynamics of generic diversity is associated with the appearance/disappearance of simple suture genera, which are not ascribed to a particular family. The maximum oscillations of generic diversity occur in the Aptian and Albian which are associated with large variations in the number of genera with simple sutures. From the middle Campanian there is a continued loss of diversity until the end of the Maastrichtian linked to a net reduction of single suture genera. The direct relationship between the number of genera and the range of septal complexity in each substage indicates that different degrees of septal complexity are different ecomorphological strategies of adaptation to different niches. This result confirms that the specialist forms are those with simple sutures while the genera with complex septa are either generalist forms or are adapted to environments that do not undergo major fluctuations over geological time. The ammonoid generic diversity recorded dynamics is different from that of other marine invertebrates, reflecting paleobiological and/or taphonomic differences. The symmetrical distribution of septal complexity values points to the relative fidelity of the fossil record of Cretaceous ammonoids. The effect of seven oceanic anoxic events on the number of genera and septal complexity is analyzed, obtaining no statistically distinguishable effects of the oscillations of these variables with respect to those occurring in other intervals where such events are not recorded.
User-Centered Design to Enhance University Students' Sex and Menstrual Education: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Kim Hana , Ko Ji Woon , Kim Doyon , Yoon Nagyeom , Lee Jisan
Published: April 2024

Background
There is a challenge in providing university students, particularly, with reliable sex and menstrual education that caters to their specific needs. This study endeavors to bridge this gap by developing and evaluating student-led, mobile-centric educational modules for sexual and menstrual education.
Methods
The study co-designed the educational content and the mobile user interface to resonate with university students' needs. Eighty unmarried university students were randomized into two groups: a PDF group (n = 40) and a Video group (n = 40). The program's effectiveness was gauged using a randomized controlled trial design, complemented by qualitative insights from semi-structured interviews. The educational impact was assessed for the 80 participants based on the type of content delivered.
Results
The video group showed a significant increase in sexual knowledge, while the PDF group demonstrated a significant increase in menstruation knowledge. Regarding the overall quiz scores, the PDF group achieved significantly higher scores. However, apart from the quiz score, no significant differences were found between the video and PDF groups.
Conclusion
This study highlights the significance of co-designing educational content tailored to the needs of university students. Interestingly, it emphasizes that the format of educational content within a mobile-based platform is similar in effectively delivering education.
Trial registration:
This trial was registered in a Clinical Research Information Service in Korea linked with the World Health Organization’s International Clinical Trial Registry Platform (WHO’s ICTRP) (30/11/2023, no. KCT0009006)
Optimizing Real-Time Data Processing in Fog Computing with the TPDI Algorithm using Iot and AI
Authors: Hagag Ismail M. , Amin Mohamed A. , fattah Tarek Abd El
Published: April 2024

Considerable research has been dedicated to exploring the fog computing model, which aims to improve cloud-based services for Internet of Things (IoT) and AI users. The model introduces a fog layer between the user and cloud layers to minimize data transmission and processing time while controlling expenses. Nevertheless, the use of virtualization technologies in fog planning and resource management has faced challenges due to resource constraints and delayed services. To overcome these obstacles, this paper introduces a novel task scheduling algorithm called Task Priority Dynamic Implementation (TPDI) that leverages priority levels within the fog layer. The primary objective of this algorithm is to enhance the timely execution of tasks and reduce costs, particularly given the increasing number of IoT devices and AI-powered intelligent systems. The performance evaluations demonstrate that TPDI outperforms existing task scheduling algorithms by reducing overall response times. This development holds significant importance for emerging brownfield computing technology, as we anticipate that the priority algorithm can find applications in various domains.
The topical application of Sphistin12-38 in combination with sponge spicules for the Acne treatment
Authors: He Weiyi , Zhang Chi , Huijung Lai , Wu Guopeng , Xiong Ming , Peng Hui , chen ming , Wang Ke-Jian
Published: April 2024

We demonstrated for the first time that a marine-derived antimicrobial peptide (AMP), Sph12-38, exhibit high antimicrobial activity against P. acnes with a minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) value of 7 μM. Meanwhile, Sph12-38 has no significant cytotoxicity to human keratinocytes (HKs) at its high concentration (33.5 μM). The topical application of sponge Haliclona sp. spicules (SHS) dramatically enhanced the skin penetration of Sph12-38 up to 40.9±5.9% (p<0.01), which was 6.1±0.9-fold higher than that of Sph12-38 alone. Further, SHS resulted in the accumulation of most Sph12-38 in viable epidermis and dermis. Further, the combined use of Sph12-38 and SHS resulted in a cure rate of 100% for rabbit ear acne treatment in vivo for two weeks, while the one induced by other groups was 40%, 0% and 0% for SHS alone, Sph12-38 alone and control group, respectively. The strategy of combined using AMP and SHS can also be applied in a rational designed topical delivery system for the management of other deep infection of the skin. The effectiveness of SHS by itself on the treatment of acne was also demonstrated by clinical trials. After 14 days of treatment by 1% SHS gel. The number of skin lesions decreased by 51.4%.
Gravito-electrodynamics Effects on Positively Charge Dust Grains of D68 Ringlet of Saturn’s D Ring
Authors: Lianlunthang TD Peter , Baruah Monmoyuri
Published: April 2024

Our numerical simulations on the effects of gravito-electrodynamics on the positively charged dust grains of the D68 ringlet of Saturn’s D ring reveal that dust grains, measuring between 0.028 and 0.01 nanometers launched with Keplerian velocity in the equatorial plane, can maintain stable orbits around the planet for years. Slightly larger grains 0.029 n to 0.1n size descending onto Saturn's atmosphere. While grains ofsize between 1 micrometer and 0.11 nanometers intersect with D72, at, potentially contributing to the recycling of ring materials within the equatorial plane. However, when these dust grains are launched with initial speed same as the Saturn's rotation, they either fall towards the planet or are stably trapped as the Keplerian launch ones. Those between the sizes 03 to 0.1n stably orbit around the local magnetic field lines akin to the Keplerian-launched particles, but now in retrograde directions. Size between 1 micron and 0.04 nanometers move inward until they collide with Saturn's atmosphere.. In both the cases, those unstable grains moving towards and outwards the planet in a bouncing manner above and below the equatorial plane. The confinement of the dust motions to the equatorial plane offers a plausible explanation for the depletion of electrons and the conductivity enhancement observed in the equatorial region of Saturn's ionosphere. Dispersion of charged dust across longitudes highlights Lorentz force's role in segregating D rings by grain size. Those moving towards the planet are likely the observed in-falling material during Cassini's missions.
Efficient preparation of no-glycerol biodiesel by tri-component coupling transesterification catalyzed over pollen-derived CaO
Authors: tang ying , Li Meng , Li Guangtao , Yang Yi , Yang Ying
Published: April 2024

Rape pollen with fishnet-like network structure has been used as support in the construction of high dispersion CaO materials assigned to CaO(P) ("P" was symbol of the precipitation method) via precipitation and it has been employed in the enhanced no-glycerol biodiesel preparation. The relatively excellent activity was observed by yielding to no-glycerol biodiesel of 92.69% in the rapeseed 1/1/8 mixture of oil-methyl acetate-methanol at 65 ℃ for 3 h over 10 wt% of 1/1-CaO(P)-700 (calcinated at 700 ℃ and immernated in 1/1 of calcium nitrate to sodium carbonate). Characterizations over the templated CaO(P) samples have been conducted by means of Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET),X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform- infrared (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM), respectively. Based on the results, it can be found that the catalytic effect of templated CaO(P) was depend on both stronger basicity and enlarged micro-pore distribution which provide more sites for better catalysis.
The preoperative nutritional and inflammatory indexs as prognostic factors in patients with early-stage resectable extrahepatic bile duct cancer
Authors: Zhang Xingli , Gu Yuanlong , Lv Huimin , Chang Liang , Zhao Juan , Zhou Dan
Published: April 2024

Background
Cancer - associated malnutrition and systemic inflammation have been shown to be strongly linked with poor prognosis in various cancers. The aim of this study was to investigate the prognostic values of the prognostic nutritional index (PNI), nutritional risk index (NRI), advanced lung cancer inflammation index (ALI), and systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) in patients with early-stage resectable extrahepatic bile duct cancer (BDC).
Methods
A total of 155 early-stage resectable extrahepatic BDC were recruited for this retrospective study. Kaplan-Meier and Cox regression analyses were used to evaluate the prognostic power of preoperative PNI, NRI, ALI, and SII in patients with early-stage extrahepatic BDC. Nomogram was developed based on the results of multivariate Cox analyses and were then validated and calibrated.
Results
Receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis identified the optimal cut-off points for PNI, NRI, ALI, and SII were 48.7, 100.5, 49.9, and 659.8. Low PNI, NRI, ALI, and high SII were related to TNM stage (P < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier analysis showed that low PNI, NRI, ALI, and high SII were related to poor overall survival (OS) and recurrence-free survival (RFS) of patients. Multivariate analyses indicated that lymph nodes metastasis, PNI, NRI, ALI, and SII were significant independent factors for OS and RFS. Nomograms were developed to predict OS and RFS for patients with early-stage resectable extrahepatic BDC.
Conclusion
Preoperative PNI, NRI, ALI, and SII could be used as prospective noninvasive prognostic biomarkers for patients with early-stage resectable extrahepatic BDC.
A Qualitative Assessment of Multi-sectoral Action for Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Uttar Pradesh, India
Authors: tiwari abhishek , singh shivendra , Manar Manish , Pandey Kanchan , Kaur Manmeet
Published: April 2024

Introduction
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are increasing globally, especially affecting vulnerable populations in low- and middle-income countries. To tackle this, urgent and comprehensive actions are needed. The main preventable risk factors for NCDs are tobacco and alcohol use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and air pollution, rooted in social determinants of health (SDOH). In India, some states are adopting a multi-sectoral approach (MSA) to manage NCDs. A qualitative assessment was conducted to evaluate MSA implementation in Uttar Pradesh, India.
Methods
Inductive approach i.e., grounded theory was used to understand the perceptions regarding MSA. Key-Informant Interviews (KIIs) of senior level officers from both non-health and health sectors were conducted using an interview guide. We targeted all 17 priority non-health sectors as identified in National Multi-sectoral Action plan (NMAP) for prevention and control of NCDs in India. Data thus collected was transcribed, translated and coded for identifying themes.
Results
The non-health sectors are ready to act but don’t have a lead to guide them. They did explain the risk factors such as behaviours, nutrition and physical inactivity for NCDs and also appreciated the role of MSA in prevention and control of NCD. The attitude and perception of health sector towards implementation of MSA is not very promising. It is based upon the existing vertical structures, response and support they have experienced before from other sectors and from administration. All the non-health sectors opine that health needs to take lead for MSA as health sector has scientific knowledge and experience regarding operationalization of health programs.
Conclusion
There is still a long way to bring all priority non-health and health sectors on a common action platform for NCDs prevention and control. The trade-off between the two needs to involve a dedicated but separate structure which would act within or parallel to existing system and translate policy to practice.
Combination of PI-RADS version 2.1 and amide proton transfer values for the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer
Authors: Zhang Li , Li Longchao , Zhe Xia , Tang Min , Lei Xiaoyan , Zhang Jing , Duan Xianglong
Published: April 2024

Background
The goal of this study was to assess whether combining amide proton transfer (APT)-weighted MRI with the Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System scoring system version 2.1 (PI-RADS V2.1) could increase diagnostic accuracy compared to PI-RADS V2.1 alone in predicting clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa).
Methods
The present study retrospectively analyzed data from patients who underwent prostate magnetic resonance imaging(MRI) examinations from July 2022 to August 2023. All patients underwent T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), amide proton transfer (APT), diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) MRI. Two radiologists independently examined the images. The independent samples t test or the Wilcoxon rank sum test was employed to investigate the statistical variance in the demographic and APT parameters of the two groups. We utilized receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis to assess the diagnostic accuracy of PI-RADS V2.1 and the combination model (APT-weighted signal values and PI-RADS V2.1). The comparison of the area under the curve (AUC)s were conducted using the Delong method.
Results
A total of 289 patients were eventually included in this study; 102 had csPCa, and 187 had either benign lesions or clinically insignificant prostate cancer (cisPCa). The APTmean, APTmax, and APTmin values were significantly different between the two groups in both the peripheral zone (PZ) and transition zone (TZ). The combined models were significantly more effective than the use of PI-RADS V2.1 alone for the whole gland and PZ, with areas under the curve (AUC)s of 0.874–0.883 compared to 0.803 and 0.885 compared to 0.798, respectively (P < 0.05). However, there was no substantial improvement in diagnostic accuracy when APT-weighted signal values were incorporated into PI-RADS V2.1 for the TZ, as the AUC increased from 0.791 to 0.865, with a P value of 0.202.
Conclusion
By incorporating APT-weighted signal values with PI-RADS V2.1, there was a notable improvement in the diagnostic accuracy of csPCa detection in both the whole gland and the PZ compared to PI-RADS V2.1 alone. However, there was no significant enhancement in terms of csPCa in TZ.