bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-physical field coupled mixed lubrication analysis of hydraulic reciprocating VL Seal
Authors: Zhao Yan , Feng Ziming , Liu Weikai
Published: January 2024

Engineering practice has demonstrated that seal failure can result in severe leakage and wear, reducing the efficiency of hydraulic systems and even leading to major safety accidents. Currently, there is relatively limited analysis of the thermal aspect of seal interfaces, with most studies focusing on the mechanical analysis. However, in actual applications, temperature has a significant impact on sealing performance. In this paper, nonlinear elastomechanics, viscous fluid mechanics, micro-contact mechanics, micro-deformation theory, and thermodynamics are coupled to establish a mixed lubrication model considering the thermal effect. The reliability of the mixed lubrication model is verified through experiments, and the temperature distribution of the oil film in the sealing area and the temperature distribution of the seal ring are simulated. Finally, the effects of reciprocating speed, root mean square roughness, and seal ring interference on seal friction force and leakage are investigated.The results show that the heat generated in the sealing area accumulates at the bottom of the V-ring. Under the same conditions, compared with the inner stroke, the temperature rise area of the outer stroke is biased to the left and has a higher temperature rise. In addition, the piston rod speed and the interference of the seal ring have a greater impact on the overall seal friction force and leakage, while at a low interference, the root mean square roughness has a significant impact on the outer stroke of the piston rod, but a limited impact on the inner stroke.
Assessment of ATP Metabolism to Adenosine by Ecto-Nucleotidases Carried by Tumor-Derived Small Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Hong Chang-Sook , Menshikova Elizabeth V. , Whiteside Theresa L. , Jackson Edwin K.
Published: January 2024

Background Immunosuppression is a hallmark of cancer progression. Tumor-derived small extracellular vesicles (sEV), also known as TEX, produce adenosine (ADO) and can mediate tumor-induced immunosuppression.Methods Here, the ATP pathway of ADO production (ATP◊ADP◊AMP◊ADO) by ecto-nucleotidases carried in sEV was evaluated by a novel method using N6-etheno-ATP (eATP) and N6-etheno-AMP (eAMP) as substrates. The “downstream” N6-etheno-purines (ePurines) were measured by high performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection (HPLC-FL).Results Human melanoma cell-derived TEX (MTEX) metabolized eATP to N6-etheno-ADP (eADP), eAMP and N6-etheno-Adenosine (eADO) more robustly than control keratinocyte cell-derived sEV (CEX); due to accelerated conversion of eATP to eADP and eADP to eAMP. MTEX and CEX similarly metabolized eAMP to eADO. Blocking of the ATP pathway with the selective CD39 inhibitor ARL67156 or pan ecto-nucleotidase inhibitor POM-1 normalized the ATP pathway but neither inhibitor completely abolished it. In contrast, inhibition of CD73 by PSB12379 or AMPCP abolished eADO formation in both MTEX and CEX, suggesting that targeting CD73 is the preferred approach to eliminating ADO produced by sEV.Conclusions The noninvasive, sensitive, and specific assay assessing ePurine metabolism ± ecto-nucleotidase inhibitors in TEX enables the personalized identification of the ecto-nucleotidase primarily involved in ADO production in patients with cancer. The assay could guide precision medicine by determining which purine is the preferred target for inhibitory therapeutic interventions.
Scientific civility and academic performance
Authors: Camacho Emma , Dragotakes Quigly , Hartshorn Isabella , Casadevall Arturo , Buccino Daniel L
Published: January 2024

In modern science, interdisciplinary and collaborative research is encouraged among scientists to solve complex problems. However, when the time comes to measure an individual’s academic productivity, collaborative efforts are hard to conceptualize and quantify. In this study, we hypothesized that a social behavior coined “scientific civility”, which encompasses civility, collaboration, cooperation, or a combination of these, enhances an individual’s productivity influencing their academic performance. To assess the value of collaborative efforts and research output to a scientist’s academic performance, we developed a new indicator: the C score. We examined publicly available data from 1000 academic scientists at the individual-level, focusing on their scholarly output and collaborative networks as a function of geographic distribution and time. Our findings strongly suggest that the C score supports an integrative and holistic assessment of an individual’s academic performance. This indicator may be used as a decision-making tool to track career advancement within the academic environment.
Hepatic failure with Providencia rettgeri infection: case report
Authors: Yan Fangfei , Xi Dong , Han Meiwen , Guan Qianting , Guo Qinghao , Ning Qin
Published: January 2024

Background
Providencia rettgeri is an uncommon opportunistic pathogen of nosocomial infection in humans. It often occurs in urinary tract infection and skin damage.Few reports find providencia rettgeri infection in a hepatic failure patient.
Case presentation:
A 29 years old man admitted to us with crushing injury by a falling objects in construction site, which caused hepatorrhexis and hepatic failure .In the therapy period of infective intensive care unit (ICU), the patient got tracheal intubation to support breath and the rinse of fiber bronchoscopy cultured providencia rettgeri .
Conclusions
Providencia rettgeri is associated with the patients with totally terribble health conditionos, like post-enormous sugeries,large area skin burn and liver failure and so on. Few clincal cases also find the patients with assisted ventilation get infected with providencia rettgeri. And due to the pathogen’s character of antimicrobial resistance,it rasies mortality and prolongs recovery time. Thereafter,attention should be taken to those patients in their recovery period.
The effects of aquatic exercise on motor skills and social behaviors in children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: A Systematic review
Authors: Salar Sarvin , jorgic Bojan , Stojanovic Stefan , Pourgholi Maryam , Block Martin E
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have delays in developing motor skills and social behaviors compared to typically developed children. Various exercise program can improve social and motor behaviors of individuals with autism spectrum disorder. There is no consensus among researchers about how aquatic exercise effects of individuals with ASD. The purpose of this study is the comprehensively reviews the impacts of aquatic exercise on motor skills and social behaviors among children and adolescents with ASD.
Methods: This systematic review is based on the PRISMA guidelines. The following criteria was used to determine acceptance into this review: the participants were children and adolescents with ASD, the experimental program was involved aquatic exercise program, and all studies were peer-reviewed English publications from 2002 to 2022.
Results: After applying exclusion criteria, a total of 9 studies were identified. Analysis indicated that various aquatic programs including hydrotherapy and traditioanl swimming activities can improve motor skill levels and social behaviors in children and adolescents with ASD. Optimal duration of aquatic programs appears to be at least 8 weeks for a minimum of two times per week for 30 minutes per session.
Conclusion: Results of this analysis suggest that physical therapists and physical educators should recommend this intervention when appropriate, and consider developing community-based aquatic exercise programs.
Exploring Furfuryl Alcohol as Carbon Coating Agent for Silicon/Graphite Anode Active Materials
Authors: Sohel Ikramul Hasan , Zengin Feyza , Ateş Mehmet Nurullah
Published: January 2024

In this study, we present a facile technique for producing the amorphous carbon-coated Silicon (Si) mixed with commercial graphite (Gt) as anode active material for lithium-ion batteries. The carbon is coated onto Si particles with a single-step method from a low-cost alcohol-based source, namely furfuryl alcohol. The carbon-coated Si is then mixed with the Gt and the amount of Si is varied to obtain a stable cycling performance. The best cycling performance is obtained when the Si@C weight ratio with respect to Gt is adjusted to 10%. The cell containing the optimized Si@C anode able to deliver 415 mAh/g capacity after 100 cycles at 0.2C rate while the commercial state-of-the-art Gt anode only delivers a capacity of 303.9 mAh/g after 100 cycles. The materials are further characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, Scanning Electronic Microscopy coupled with Energy Dispersive Spectrometry (SEM/EDS), Particle Size Analyzer (PSA), Raman, X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and High-Resolution Transmission Electron Microscopy (HR-TEM) coupled with energy dispersive spectrometry and Selected Area Electron Diffraction (SAED). Electrochemical characterizations like Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) analysis of the half-cells are carried out. Finally, the post-mortem analysis of the cells is carried out using SEM/EDS, post-cycling CV, and EIS.
Strategies for Implementing an Electronic Patient-Reported Outcomes-Based Symptom Management Program Across Six Cancer Centers
Authors: Hassett Michael J. , Dias Samira , Cronin Christine , Schrag Deborah , McCleary Nadine , Simpson Jaclyn , Poirier-Shelton Tiana , Bian Jessica , Reich James , Dizon Don , Begnoche Megan , Jenkins Hannah Hazard , Tasker Laura , Wong Sandra , Pearson Loretta , Paudel Roshan , Osarogiagbon Raymond U.
Published: January 2024

Background: Electronic patient-reported outcome (ePRO)-based symptom management improves cancer patients’ outcomes. However, implementation of ePROs is challenging, requiring technical resources for integration into clinical systems, substantial buy-in from clinicians and patients, novel workflows to support between-visit symptom management, and institutional investment.
Methods: The SIMPRO Research Consortium developed eSyM, an electronic health record-integrated, ePRO-based symptom management program for medical oncology and surgery patients and deployed it at six cancer centers between August 2019 and April 2022 in a type II hybrid effectiveness-implementation cluster randomized stepped-wedge study. Sites documented implementation strategies monthly using REDCap, itemized them using the Expert Recommendations for Implementation Change (ERIC) list and mapped their target barriers using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to inform eSyM program enhancement, facilitate inter-consortium knowledge sharing and guide future deployment efforts.
Results: We documented 226 implementation strategies: 35 ‘foundational’ strategies were applied consortium-wide by the coordinating center and 191 other strategies were developed by individual sites. We consolidated these 191 site-developed strategies into 64 unique strategies (i.e., removed duplicates) and classified the remainder as either ‘universal’, consistently used by multiple sites (N=29), or ‘adaptive’, used only by individual sites (N=35). Universal strategies were perceived as having the highest impact; they addressed eSyM clinical preparation, training, engagement of patients/clinicians, and program evaluation. Across all documented SIMPRO strategies, 44 of the 73 ERIC strategies were addressed and all 5 CFIR barriers were addressed.
Conclusion: Methodical collection of theory-based implementation strategies fostered the identification of universal, high-impact strategies that facilitated adoption of a novel care-delivery intervention by patients, clinicians, and institutions. Attention to the high-impact strategies identified in this project could support implementation of ePROs as a component of routine cancer care at other institutions.
Trial Registration

Registry: ClinicalTrials.gov
Trial Registration Number: NCT03850912
Date of Registration: February 22, 2019
Registry Record URL:
https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03850912?term=hassett&draw=2&rank=1
Predictive modeling of high-grade lung neuroendocrine neoplasms Overall survival and Cancer-specific survival based on a machine learning approach
Authors: Li Feiyang , Li Fang , Zhao Dong , Lu Haowei
Published: January 2024

Objective: We wished to construct a prognostic prediction model regarding high-grade lung neuroendocrine neoplasms(L-NENs) by using demographic characteristics and clinical information.
Method: The demographic characteristics and clinical data of 5268 patients with pathologically diagnosed high-grade lung neuroendocrine tumors between 2010 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed using the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) database, and a Nomogram of overall survival(OS) and cancer-specific survival(CSS) at 1, 3, and 5 years was constructed using LASSO regression and COX regression analysis. Nomogram of OS and CSS at 1, 3, and 5 years were constructed, and the performance of the predictive models was evaluated using the consistency index (C-index), calibration curves, Receiver Operating Characteristic(ROC) curves, and decision curve analysis (DCA), and internal validation of our constructed models was performed by validation sets.
Results: We divided the included patients into training and validation sets in a ratio of 7:3, and analysis using the chi-square test revealed no statistically significant difference between the baseline information of the two data sets (p > 0.05); The training set was analyzed using COX univariate analysis and found that gender, age, AJCC stage, whether treated or not, and distant metastasis were the influencing factors of OS, and these influencing factors were found to be independent prognostic influences of OS after further screening by including these influencing factors in LASSO regression, and we constructed a Nomogram plot of OS by including these influencing factors in COX multivariate;We used the same method to screen the independent prognostic influences affecting CSS were gender, age, race, AJCC stage, whether treated or not, bone metastasis, brain metastasis, and liver metastasis, etc., which we included in the COX multifactorial to construct a Nomogram of CSS;Validation of the OS and CSS models using ROC curves, C-indexes, calibration curves and DCA curves after construction proved the accuracy and reliability of our models.
Conclusion: This prediction model can more accurately predict the prognosis of patients with high-grade L-NENs.
Assessment of Growth Hormone and Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 in Children with Epidermolysis Bullosa Dystrophica
Authors: darouti Mohammad El , Zaki Iman Sany , Musa Noha , Sayed Hagar El
Published: January 2024

Epidermolysis bullosa dystrophica (EBD) is characterized by muco-cutaneous fragility with blistering, scarring and severe growth retardation attributed to many factors.
This cross-sectional study included 51 patients aged 1-12 years with EBD. Weight and height were measured, with the calculation of weight standard deviation score (SDS), height SDS, and body mass index (BMI), followed by plotting them on Egyptian growth curves. Serum levels of basal growth hormone (GH), insulin like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), hemoglobin (HB) level, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and thyroid functions (TSH and T4) were measured. Growth hormone stimulation test was performed in 10 patients.
Weight SDS and height SDS were significantly lower than normal measurements (P< 0.05*). Growth hormone, growth hormone stimulation, and IGF-1 were significantly lower than the normal range (P< 0.05*). HB levels were significantly lower than normal, while ESR levels were significantly elevated (P <0.001*). A negative correlation was found between ESR and basal GH, and a positive correlation between ESR and IGF1.
In conclusion, children with generalized DEB have poor growth and low circulating GH and IGF-1 levels, likely due to malnutrition, anemia, and inflammation that suppresses GH/IGF-1 axis. Future treatments targeting the correction of GH and IGF1 levels and anti-inflammatory treatment should be considered.
Comparison of MELD Score Subcomponents versus Post-Transjugular Intrahepatic Portosystemic Shunt (TIPS) Survival Time
Authors: Hasan Eusha , Lamba Ashley , Rumball Ian , Davoudzadeh Ethan , Tiwary Nayan , Giammarino Alexa , Greben Craig , Satapathy Sanjaya , Weinstein Jonathan
Published: January 2024

Background:
Consequences of severe liver disease include hepatic biosynthetic and metabolic dysfunction, which is reflected in the model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score subcomponents of elevated international normalized ratio (INR) and bilirubin. Hepatorenal complications also occur, indicated by increased serum creatinine in the MELD score. Serum creatinine should theoretically not be a strong predictor of survival after trans-jugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) placement, as TIPS directly reduces portal hypertension but cannot correct irreversible damage to hepatic metabolic processes. We compared TIPS outcomes in chronic liver disease patients whose high MELD scores were caused primarily by elevated INR/Bilirubin versus patients whose MELD scores were caused primarily by elevated creatinine.
Methods:
This retrospective study identified 68 patients undergoing primary TIPS for chronic liver disease from 2018 to 2021. Patient characteristics, baseline MELD score, and MELD subcomponents were analyzed against post-TIPS survival time.
Results:
Baseline MELD (HR = 1.136, p = 0.002), total bilirubin (HR = 1.933, p < 0.001), and INR (HR = 4.107, p = 0.004) were found to be significant predictors of decreased survival following TIPS. Baseline creatinine was not found to be significantly related to survival time (HR = 1.654, p = 0.1726).
Conclusions:
Post-TIPS survival is negatively impacted by abnormalities of MELD subcomponents related to decreased hepatic biosynthetic function (INR, total bilirubin), but not subcomponents related to portal hypertension (creatinine) which TIPS directly alleviates. This differs from the original description of the scoring system, in which creatinine was shown to be an independent predictor of post-TIPS survival.
AD-Cloud: Health data visualization and monitoring equipment for Chinese Alzheimer’s patients based on the Wireless Body Area Network technology
Authors: Wu Yi , Zheng Minghong , Weng Changqing
Published: January 2024

Continuous visual health monitoring of Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients as a lifelong degenerative neurological disease has received increasing medical and design attention. Meanwhile, the Wireless Body Area Network (WBAN) technology, built on the Internet of Things (IoT), has been widely used in human health monitoring. However, it is unclear whether the visual analysis of multimodal data collected by WBAN is useful for the health monitoring of patients with AD. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate this issue and conducted a 12-month controlled trial. 16 AD patients worked with us and were divided into a traditional physical examination visualization group and a WBAN monitoring visualization group. In the WBAN monitoring visualization group, we innovated a digital kit called AD Cloud, which consists of a flexible wearable data collection and transmission device with a star topology, a high-calculus remote data visualization convolutional neural framework, and an interactive mobile application. It is worth highlighting the innovative visualization analysis, presentation and interaction methods for behavioral, physiological and psychological AD patients and WBAN technology, as well as the quantitative and qualitative analysis arguments combined with the "shopping out" example to check and analyze the differences in results. Finally, it is shown that in the field of health monitoring visualization, the innovative monitoring visualization device based on WBAN technology is more positive for AD patients than the traditional conventional medical examination. The results also show that continuous monitoring and visualization of highly identifiable information can lead to a more realistic picture of the health status of AD patients, improve collaboration between AD patients and their families, community caregivers, physicians and caregivers, provide effective support for social health decision making for AD patients, and ultimately respond quickly to the needs of AD patients.
Outcomes of Traumatic Cataract Surgery: A Retrospective Analysis of Visual Acuity and Refractive Error
Authors: Daryabari Seyed-Hashem , Jadidi Khosrow , Torabi Hamidreza , Hassani Mahmood , Kiarudi Mohammad Yaser , Saeedifar Mohammadreza
Published: January 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the visual and refractive outcome of cataract surgery and intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in adults with traumatic cataract.
Methods: Patients who underwent cataract surgery and IOL implantation due to closed or open eye injuries were included in this retrospective case series. All patients were contacted and asked for complete ocular reexamination. Medical records were also reviewed for baseline data, surgical details and complications.
Results: Seventy-two eyes from 72 patients (84.7% male) with mean age of 39.5±13.6 (range, 21-68) years were included. Forty-one (56.9%) eyes had open globe injuries and 31 (43.1%) eyes had closed globe injuries. Final corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was 20/40 or better in 43 (61.1%) eyes. The absolute prediction error was 1.0 diopter or less in 58.3% of eyes. There was no significant difference in final mean absolute prediction error between eyes with closed or open injuries (P>0.05). Eyes with open globe injury were more likely to achieve CDVA of 20/40 or less (Odds ratio, [95% confidence interval]: 0.331 [0.121-0.910]; P=0.032).
Conclusion: Visual acuity significantly improved after traumatic cataract extraction. Most cases achieved satisfactory visual acuity. Eyes with open globe injuries might have less favorable visual prognosis. Refractive outcome was similar in open and closed injuries.
Morphological and Molecular Characrerization of Wild Pomegranate (Punica Granatum l.)Genotypes to Estimate the Genetic Diversity Through Ssr Markers Collected From District Dir Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
Authors: ULLAH JAMIL , AHMAD ISRAR , NISAR MOHAMMAD , MAHMOOD TARAQ , ullah irfan
Published: January 2024

The pomegranate (Punica graatum L.) is an local fruit of Pakistan, having a long history of cultivation as wild plant in warm temperate Himalayan range of the country; however its production is quite low to meet ever increasing market demand. Sustainable production of high quality pomegranate fruit in the world has been achieved through morphogenetic characterization and estimation of genotypes diversity. Thus, it is important to estimate morphological, and genetic diversity of wild pomegranate. In the present study 50 genotypes of wild pomegranate were collected from District Dir and estimated for eight morphological traits and randomly selected 18 genotypes out of 50 genotypes for molecular characterization by applying six SSR marker for estimation of genetic diversity. In this study eight morphological characters two qualitative and six quantitative trait were used for the determination of genetic diversity. Analysis of variance revealed that significant variations were found in fruit length and fruit width in PC4, PC5 and PC6. The principal component analysis of six quantitative variables revealed a total variation of (100%) with an Eigenvalue of 0.167%. PC1 has a total variation of 31.548%, PC2 has 19.054%, PC3 has 16.483%, PC4 has 15.85%, PC5 has 11.827% variation while PC6 has 5.237%. Cluster based analysis of six quantitative traits of wild pomegranate using ward method and all genotypes were divided into two linkage groups A at 33% genetic distance and B at 67% genetic distance. The genotypes P1 and P28 being the most diversified and is found at the extreme periphery of the Dendrogram. The highest genetic diversity was observed by primer pgSSR25 (0.85) and minimum gene diversity was recorded by primer PgSSR19 (0.500) a mean PIC value 0.70. Overall primers considerably diverse between all genotypes. The present result revealed superior genotypes, as P1, P2, P25 and P28 both morphogenaticaly which can be used as parents that certainly increase the chance of obtaining desirable genotypes in a breeding program. Moreover present results revealed that the both morphological characterization and molecular characterization provide a powerful tool for the estimation of genetic variations existing among the genotypes of Wild pomegranate This studies provide basic information for morphological and molecular diversity programs to develop new cultivars to enhance the production of high quality pomegranate with desirable traits in Pakistan.
Comprehensive Analysis of Glulam Delamination Though Finite Element Modelling Incorporating Physical and Mechanical Properties: A Case Study Using High Density Hardwood
Authors: Lu Peiqing , Gilbert Benoit P. , Kumar Chandan , McGavin Robert L. , Karampour Hassan
Published: January 2024

With the ongoing emphasis on sustainable and eco-friendly construction, there is a rising demand for high-strength and high-stiffness engineered wood products. This trend presents both opportunities and challenges for the Australia's hardwood industry, particularly concerning native forest-grown spotted gum (Corymbia citriodora). Glue laminated (glulam) spotted gum beams cannot be confidently commercialised due to the difficulty for its high-density to satisfy the bond integrity criteria (referred to as “delamination test”) for external products in accordance with the Australia and New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 1328.1 (1998). To investigate potential solutions for passing this delamination test, an accurate numerical model can be a valuable and time-efficient tool. The aim of this study is to develop and detail such a model, considering heat and mass transfer, drying stresses, plasticity and fracture propagation models, using COMSOL Multiphysics 5.5. The model was validated against a series of wetting and drying experiments on spotted gum glulam, considering both moisture content variation and crack propagation along the gluelines. Results from the validated model showed that delamination is principally due to the tensile stress applied to the gluelines. Through the comprehensive analysis of the moisture content and stress distributions during delamination test, alternative strategies for reducing delamination can be identified.
Carboxymethylated Rhizoma alismatis polysaccharides reduces the risk of calcium oxalate stone formation by reducing cellular inflammation and oxidative stress
Authors: Wang Zhi , Liu Li , Li Chuang-Ye , Zhao Yao-Wang , Tong Xin-Yi , Cheng Xiao-Yan , Ouyang Jian-Ming
Published: January 2024

Objective
This study aims to elucidate the mechanism and potential of Rhizoma alismatis polysaccharides (RAPs) in preventing oxidative damage to human renal proximal tubule epithelial cells.
Methods
The experimental approach involved incubating HK-2 cells with 100 nm calcium oxalate monohydrate for 24 h to establish a cellular injury model. Protection was provided by RAPs with varying carboxyl group contents: 3.57%, 7.79%, 10.84%, and 15.33%. The safeguarding effect of RAPs was evaluated by analyzing relevant cellular biochemical indicators.
Results
Findings demonstrate that RAPs exhibit notable antioxidative properties. They effectively diminish the release of reactive oxygen species, lactate dehydrogenase, and malondialdehyde, a lipid oxidation byproduct. Moreover, RAPs enhance superoxide dismutase activity and mitochondrial membrane potential while attenuating the permeability of the mitochondrial permeability transition pore. Additionally, RAPs significantly reduce levels of inflammatory factors, including NLRP3, TNF-α, IL-6, and NO. This reduction corresponds to the inhibition of overproduced pro-inflammatory mediator nitric oxide and the caspase 3 enzyme, leading to a reduction in cellular apoptosis. RAPs also display the ability to suppress the expression of the HK-2 cell surface adhesion molecule CD44.
Conclusions
The observed results collectively underscore the substantial anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic potential of all four RAPs. Moreover, their capacity to modulate the expression of cell surface adhesion molecules highlights their potential in inhibiting the formation of kidney stones. Notably, RAP3, boasting the highest carboxyl group content, emerges as the most potent agent in this regard.
Physical activity reduces the risk of anxiety associated with pesticide exposure
Authors: BAI LONG , Wen Zongliang , Wu Shenqin , Jin Yingliang , Chen Jialin , Jama Hamdi Abdirizak , Sawmadal Joyce D.
Published: January 2024

Objective
The purpose of this study was to examine whether there is an association between household pesticide exposure and anxiety symptoms in the United States and whether physical activity mitigates this association.
Methods
The study used data from the 2007–2012 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which included 13,728 American adult participants aged 20 years or older. Anxiety is defined as the presence of anxiety symptoms on 7 or more days in a 30-day. Information on recreational physical activity and pesticide exposure was self-reported in interviews. Logistic regression was used to assess the association between household pesticide use and anxiety symptoms.
Results
Participants exposed to household insecticides had a higher risk of anxiety symptoms compared to those not exposed (OR = 1.398, 95% CI: 1.239–1.576, p < 0.001). When grouped by physical activity, an association between different levels of physical activity and anxiety was found for the vigorous/moderate RPA group (OR = 1.350, 95% CI: 1.113–1.637, p = 0.002), and the light RPA group (OR = 1.434, 95% CI: 1.229–1.673, p < 0.001).
Conclusion
Household exposure to insecticides was positively associated with the development of anxiety disorders. The incidence of anxiety risk was relatively low in the vigorous/moderate RPA group after pesticide exposure compared to the light RPA.
Research on water level measurement technology based on the residual length ratio of image characters
Authors: Liu Mingtang , Wang Changchun , Huang Wei , Wang Xiaochen , Li Shihao , Lu Peng , Liu Xuemei , Jiang Enhui
Published: January 2024

Aiming at the low efficiency and poor adaptability of traditional water level measurement methods, a water level measurement technology based on the residual length ratio of image characters is proposed in this paper. First, by improving YOLOv5, the lightweight MobilenetV3 is used to replace CSPDarkNet53, and the CBAM attention mechanism is introduced to accurately locate the water gauge and the complete "E" character, and obtain the interface area between the residual "E" character and the water. Secondly, by improving U2-Net, the ordinary convolutions of RSU4-RSU7 in the decoding phase are replaced by depth-separable convolutions, and the ECA attention mechanism is introduced to improve the overall inference speed and accuracy to achieve the residual "E" character and the precise segmentation of water bodies. Finally, the water level value is calculated based on the residual length ratio of the characters. The experimental results show that the accuracy of the improved YOLOv5 is 98.12%, the average intersection over union ratio of the improved U2-Net is 86.23%, and the measurement error of water level is less than 1 cm, which meets the requirements of hydrological detection specifications. At the same time, the improved model reduces the number of parameters and computational complexity, which increases the speed of inference.
RETRACTED: Semi-quantum two-way authentication protocol between control centers and neighborhood gateways in smart grids
Authors: Zhang Qiandong , Zhang Kejia , Hou Kunchi , Zhang Long
Published: January 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A survey on brachytherapy training of gynecological cancer focusing on the competence of residents in China.
Authors: Dong Mohan , Liu Changhao , Yan Junfang , Zhu Yong , Yin Yutian , Wang Jie , Wei Lichun
Published: January 2024

Background: the brachytherapy is an indispensable treatment for gynecological tumors, but the quality and efficiency of brachytherapy training for residents is still unclear.
Methods: An anonymous questionnaire was designed to collect information on gynecological brachytherapy (GBT) training for radiation oncology residents from 28 training bases in China. The questionnaire content was designed based on the principle of competency based medical education (CBME). The Likert scale was employed to evaluate self-reported competence and comprehension regarding GBT. A total of 132 senior residents were included in the final analysis.
Results: 53.79% (71/132) of senior residents had experience in performing image-guided GBT, whereas 76.52% (101/132) had observed the procedure during their standardized residency training. The proportion of senior residents who reported having the self-reported competence to independently complete the GBT was 78.03% for intracavity GBT, 75.00% for vaginal stump GBT, and 50.03% for interstitial GBT, respectively. The number of successful completion of Interstitial, intracavity and vaginal GBT was correlated with the self- confidence of trainees after standardized training. In particular, the independent completion of interstitial GBT for more than 20 cases was an independent factor for the self-reported competence of senior residents. During the training period, 50.76% and 56.82% of the residents had not participated in the specialized examinations and professional GBT courses.
Conclusion: The study revealed that the self-confidence of residents to independently complete brachytherapy was relatively high, and the specialized curriculum setting and training process assessment for brachytherapy training still need to be strengthened in the future.
1H NMR Chemical Profile and Antioxidant Activity of Eugenia punicifolia Extracts Over Seasons: A Metabolomic Pilot Study
Authors: Neves Kidney , Santos Maria , Mar Josiana , Pontes Flávia , Tormena Claudio , Chaves Francisco , Campos Francinete , Sanches Edgar Aparecido , Bezerra Jaqueline , Machado Marcos , Santos Alan
Published: January 2024

Eugenia punicifolia (Kunth) DC. is a medicinal plant used to treat diseases related to oxidative processes. In this work, 1 H nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and multivariate analysis have been employed to track the chemical changes and antioxidant activity of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) extracts from E. punicifolia leaves over seasons. Principal component analysis (PCA) applied to 1 H NMR allowed discriminating DMSO extracts from leaves collected in the dry and rainy seasons and pointed out sucrose, catechin, and epicatechin as responsible for separating dry season samples and quercetin, acid gallic, glucose, and fatty acids contributed for rainy samples grouping. Notably, antioxidant assays revealed that dry season extracts exhibited a higher radical scavenging capacity. When those compounds were submitted to partial least squares-discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) only sucrose and fatty acids presented variable importance projection (VIP) score > 1, both metabolites are related somehow to the defense mechanisms of the plant. This pilot study may suggest new experimental approaches for more effectively monitoring the spectrum-effect relationship of E. punicifolia leaf extracts.
Thiophene-based Solar Cell. A Review
Authors: D'Auria Maurizio , Emanuele Lucia
Published: January 2024

In recent years, perovskite solar cells, which use a hybrid inorganic-organic material,
have also made remarkable progress and achieved a rapid increase in efficiency. The
organic materials used are usually small conductive molecules, polymers or oligomers. The
fused thiophenes, polythiophenes and olithiophenes used for this purpose are presented. The
condensed thiophene-based small molecule for DSSCs shows important properties such as
simplicity of synthesis and purification methods, well-defined and reproducible structures,
but low power conversion efficiencies. Polymers of thiophene for DSSCs show high power
conversion efficiencies, especially in ternary systems, even >19%; however, they have poor
long-term stability because of the molecular size and packing properties of the polymer
chains. Oligomers of thiophene for DSSCs have good long-term stability but low power
conversion efficiencies.
Role of Vitamin D in Gynecological Cancer: State of the Art
Authors: P Sruthi , Priya Mary , Varghese Treesa P. , Chand Sharad
Published: January 2024

:

Vitamin D and Vitamin D Receptors have gained more importance beyond their roles in
bone metabolism and calcium homeostasis. Several epidemiological studies have confirmed that vitamin
D has a specific function in a wide variety of gynecological cancers, such as ovarian cancer,
endometrial cancer, cervical cancer, uterine fibroid, and vulvar cancer. The different anti-cancer
mechanisms exerted by vitamin D on tumor cells are cell proliferation, cancer progression, angiogenesis,
cell cycle arrest, and inflammation. The role of vitamin D is well emphasized in ovarian cancer
and uterine fibroids, with limited studies available on cervical cancer and other types of gynecological
cancers. Overall, most epidemiological data support that inadequate or low levels of vitamin D in
the circulation are associated with risk and poor prognosis in several types of gynecological cancer. It
is evident that vitamin D plays a prominent role as an anticancer agent against numerous types of
cancer. This review focuses on the etiology and role of vitamin D and the Vitamin D Receptor in various
types of gynecological cancer, as well as the mechanism of Vitamin D and its metabolites in the
management of gynecological cancer.
Integration of Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning and Deep Learning Techniques in Genomics: Review on Computational Perspectives for NGS Analysis of DNA and RNA Seq Data
Authors: K. Chandrashekar , Niranjan Vidya , Vishal Adarsh , Setlur Anagha S.
Published: January 2024

:

In the current state of genomics and biomedical research, the utilization of Artificial Intelligence
(AI), Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) have emerged as paradigm shifters.
While traditional NGS DNA and RNA sequencing analysis pipelines have been sound in decoding
genetic information, the sequencing data’s volume and complexity have surged. There is a demand
for more efficient and accurate methods of analysis. This has led to dependency on AI/ML and DL
approaches. This paper highlights these tool approaches to ease combat the limitations and generate
better results, with the help of pipeline automation and integration of these tools into the NGS DNA
and RNA-seq pipeline we can improve the quality of research as large data sets can be processed using
Deep Learning tools. Automation helps reduce labor-intensive tasks and helps researchers to focus
on other frontiers of research. In the traditional pipeline all tasks from quality check to the variant
identification in the case of SNP detection take a huge amount of computational time and manually
the researcher has to input codes to prevent manual human errors, but with the power of automation,
we can run the whole process in comparatively lesser time and smoother as the automated pipeline
can run for multiple files instead of the one single file observed in the traditional pipeline. In conclusion,
this review paper sheds light on the transformative impact of DL's integration into traditional
pipelines and its role in optimizing computational time. Additionally, it highlights the growing importance
of AI-driven solutions in advancing genomics research and enabling data-intensive biomedical
applications.
Potential of Nanomedicines as an Alternative for the Treatment of Colorectal Cancer
- A Review
Authors: Nicolau Costa Kammila Martins , Barros Larissa Alves , da Silva Soares Ingrid Larissa , Oshiro-Junior João Augusto
Published: January 2024

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer and the second in cases of cancer-related death.
Polytherapy generates many adverse effects, leading the patient to give up. Nanotechnology has been studied in
recent years to circumvent limitations. Groups composed of polymeric, lipid, and inorganic nanoparticles are the
most purpose. Thus, the objective of this work is to bring information on how nanosystems can improve the
chemotherapeutic treatment for colorectal cancer. Therefore, a search in journals such as "LILACS", "SciELO"
and "PubMed/Medline" was performed, resulting in 25,000 articles found when applied the search engines "nanoparticle,"
"colorectal cancer," "malignant neoplasms," and "chemotherapy." After inclusion and exclusion
factors, 24 articles remained, which were used as the basis for this integrative review. The results reveal that,
regardless of the choice of matrix, nanoparticles showed an increase in bioavailability of the active, increasing the
half-life by up to 13 times, modified release, as well as a significant reduction in tumor size, with cell viability up
to 20% lower than the free drug tested, in different colorectal cancer cell lines, such as HCT-116, HT-29, and
CaCo-2. However, more in vivo and clinical studies need to be performed, regardless of the formulation of its
matrix, aiming at a higher rate of safety for patients and stability of the formulations, as well as knowledge of
detailed indices of its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, seeking to avoid further damage to the recipient
organism.
Incidence Rate of Post Coronary Artery Shunt Complications; Age Dependent!
Authors: Marzoog Basheer Abdullah
Published: January 2024

Background:

Numerous complications, such as postoperative arrhythmia and stroke,
have been observed following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Aims::

This study sought to examine the impact of aging on the incidence of post-coronary artery
shunt complications.

Objectives:

Aging is a physiological process experienced by every living cell, beginning early in
development. Age plays a crucial role in determining postoperative complications, including
those related to CABG.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 290 patients who underwent
CABG at the Mordovian Republic Hospital between 2017 and 2021. The sample was
divided into two age-based groups: the first group comprised 126 patients (mean age
range: 55.21-60.00), and the second group included 163 patients (mean age range: 66.11-80.00).
Statistical analyses employed in this study encompassed descriptive statistics, Chi-square test,
T-test, one-way ANOVA test, ROC analysis, and Pearson correlation using Statistica 12 software.

Results:

Elderly patients in the second group demonstrated a higher incidence of post-CABG
arrhythmia (p <0 0.012528). Moreover, the second group experienced markedly longer ICU and
total hospitalization days following CABG, with p-values of less than 0.000000 and 0.000072,
respectively. Notably, elderly individuals in the second group faced an increased risk of developing
psychosis after CABG surgery (p < 0.007379). Furthermore, psychosis was found to be
significantly associated with longer ICU hospitalization (p < 0.000140). Postoperative stroke
occurred more frequently among the elderly (second group) with a p-value of less than 0.037736.
Consequently, postoperative stroke was associated with extended ICU hospitalization
(p < 0.000747). The usage of internal thoracic arteries (ITAs) was lower among the elderly
(second group), with a p-value of less than 0.016145. Regarding correlations, a direct association
was observed between age and ICU days, total hospitalization days, and the number of complications,
with correlation coefficients (r) of 0.189046, 0.141415, and 0.138565, respectively.

Conclusion:

Elderly individuals in the second group who undergo CABG face a greater risk of
developing psychosis, arrhythmia, prolonged total and ICU hospitalization, and stroke. The presence
of arrhythmia, which is commonly observed in patients aged 63 years and older, significantly
affects total hospitalization days. The number of complications is influenced by age, cardiopulmonary
bypass (CPB) time, aortic cross-clamp time, ICU hospitalization, and total hospitalization
duration.
Identify Location Characteristics of Tourism Accommodation that are Influenced by e-Commerce Case Study: Lembang Tourism Area, Kab. West Bandung
Authors: Dewantara Oky , Cungwin Ardelia Jessica , Muhammad Fadhil , Putri Reliya Annisa , Cahyaningtyas Mutia Ayu
Published: January 2024

The presence of the Industrial Revolution 4.0, which is marked by the rapid development of the internet, has fundamentally changed the way humans live, work, and communicate with each other. This development has also influenced the development of the business of providing accommodation in tourist areas. The ease of obtaining information via an internet network that is connected to regional areas opens up opportunities for the public to market tourist accommodation through e-commerce accommodation. The Lembang tourist area is an area with high potential for the development of e-commerce accommodation, covering 25.64% of tourist attractions in West Bandung Regency. This research aims to determine trends and developments in the characteristics of business locations providing accommodation in the Lembang tourist area based on observations via digital platforms. Data was obtained using a spatial analysis method with two different functions. The classification function is used to review location characteristics in businesses providing accommodation based on road class. The neighborhood function is used to review location characteristics based on proximity to tourist centers. The data was then analyzed descriptively and qualitatively. The results of the research show that the development trend of e-commerce accommodation in accommodation provision businesses continues to grow from year to year. Observation results via digital platforms show that as many as 136 accommodation business units were incorporated into e-commerce accommodation in 2019 in the Lembang tourist area. The location characteristics of the business providing accommodation tend to be concentrated around tourist areas with a radius of 1 km from the tourist center. Judging from the characteristics of business locations providing accommodation on roads, it is known that 59% of business units are predominantly located on neighborhood roads, while 41% are on main roads. The ease of access offered by this digital platform influences the development of business providing accommodation and location on the road class but does not significantly affect the distance to tourist centers.
Health Care Professional–Supported Co-Design of a Mime Therapy–Based Serious Game for Facial Rehabilitation
Authors: Sousa Daniel Lima , Teixeira Silmar , Fontenele José Everton , Santos Renato Mendes , Pereira Leynilson , Baluz Rodrigo , Bastos Victor Hugo , Teles Ariel Soares
Published: January 2024

This research letter presents the co-design process for RG4Face, a mime therapy–based serious game that uses computer vision for human facial movement recognition and estimation to help health care professionals and patients in the facial rehabilitation process.