bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modified DNA-virus with Carbon-Dots: EM Morphology and Anisotropic Electric Response
Authors: Kang Kyongok , Kim Do-Hyun
Published: February 2024

Nanoscopic carbon dots have been used to monitor biocompatible DNA-strands (bacteriophage fd) with possible antimicrobial activity. Recently, carbon dots (CDs) are employed to reduce the effectiveness of air-borne viruses, by decoration of peptides. In the present study, we test the complex formation of four different types of citric acid CDs onto a charged DNA-virus (CfdV), which may serve an antigen. The adsorption effectiveness of CDs differs, depending on how they are synthesized: two of them are water-DETA based in the presence of citric acid, and the other two are DMF- and methanol-based in the presence of urea. As results, the structure of native DNA-viruses differs after adsorption of the four different types of CDs, modified ranging from the planar to twisted morphologies, as evident from Electron Microscopy (EM) by the various chemical groups involved in the complex formation. In addition, the collective microscopic dynamics of modified DNA-virus with CDs are probed both in the absence and presence of an external electric field. Here, intriguing anisotropic relaxation processes are observed in the frequency response, as interactions between the water-DETA based versus urea-based modified DNA-viruses. This work highlights a difference in the complex formation of CDs to native DNA-strands, which facilitates the way of engineering rational designs for the modified DNA-virus with carbon-dots based antigens.
Burnout Syndrome among Libyan Physicians in different specialties: An observational cross-sectional study
Authors: BENHAMZA MAWADDA Faruk , ABDUALHAMED HEBA Alhadi , ABUSAMIN BOSHRA Hagi , ABDELHAMID MOHAMED Hadi Mohamed
Published: February 2024

Burnout is an occupation-related syndrome comprising emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced feelings of work-related personal accomplishment. The healthcare profession is an exhausting job comprising individual health and mental status. The aim is to determine the prevalence and severity of burnout syndrome among Libyan physicians. An observational cross-sectional study recruited from March to August 2023. months. 731 public and private sector physicians with specialties and subspecialties participated. Once physicians agree to participate in the study, data will be collected using an electronic structured questionnaire comprising two sections. Section one will include socio-demographic characteristics. In section two burnout will be assessed using the Maslach Burnout Inventory-Human Services Survey (MBI-HSS). In our study, a total of 731 physicians from different health facilities were enrolled. The mean age was 36.76 years old (±7.23); the number of male-to-female physicians was (38.1% vs. 61.1%), more than half of physicians were married (60.7%); the mean income was 1672 (±2177.19) LD (US$344.74 ± 448.90), and the mean number of vacation days in the last 12 months was 16.85 ± 26.03 days per year. Among the three dimensions, 47.1% of the physicians reported a high score of burnout for EE, 86.3% for depersonalization, and 18.6% for personal achievement. Age, marital status, specialty, and place of work were significant risk factors for burnout in three dimensions: EE, DP, and PA (p-value <0.05); the highest burnout rates were 16.8% for the medicine, 10.0% for the ICU and anesthesia, 7.6% for surgery, 5.3% for obstetrics and gynecology, and 4.2% for the pediatrics. In conclusion, physician burnout is declared a public health threat if no immediate action is taken to mitigate a work-related burden on physicians.
Attention-based deep learning for accurate cell image analysis
Authors: Lai Lipeng , Gao Xiangrui , Zhang Fan , Gao Xueyu , Yao Mengcheng , Wang Xiaoxiao , Dong Chen , Zhang Genwei , Wang Xiaodong
Published: February 2024

High-content analysis (HCA) holds enormous potential for drug discovery and research, but widely used methods can be cumbersome and yield inaccurate results. Noisy and redundant signals in cell images impede accurate deep learning-based image analysis. To address these issues, we introduce X-Profiler, a novel HCA method that combines cellular experiments, image processing, and deep learning modeling. X-Profiler combines the convolutional neural network and Transformer to encode high-content images, effectively filtering out noisy signals and precisely characterizing cell phenotypes. In comparative tests on drug-induced cardiotoxicity, mitochondrial toxicity classification, and compound classification, X-Profiler outperformed both DeepProfiler and CellProfiler, as two highly recognized and representative methods in this field. Our results demonstrate the utility and versatility of X-Profiler, and we anticipate its wide application in HCA for advancing drug development and disease research.
A computational HLA allele-typing protocol to de-noise and leverage nanopore amplicon data
Authors: Siddiqui Jalal , Sinha Rohita , Grantham James , LaCombe Ronnie , Alonzo Judith R. , Cowden Scott , Kleiboeker Steven
Published: February 2024

Background:
Rapid turnaround time for a high-resolution deceased donor human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing is critical to improve organ transplantation outcomes. Third generation DNA sequencing platforms such as Oxford Nanopore (ONT) offer the opportunity to deliver rapid results at single nucleotide level resolution, in particular sequencing data that could be denoised computationally. Here we present a computational pipeline for the high-resolution (up to third field) HLA allele typing following ONT sequencing.
Results:
From a R10.3 flow cell batch of 31 samples of known HLA allele types, up to 10,000 ONT reads were aligned using BWA aligner to reference allele sequences from the IMGT/HLA database. For each gene, the top two hits to reference alleles at the third field were selected. Using our pipeline, we obtained the following percent concordance at the 1st, 2nd and 3rd field: A (98.4%, 98.4%, 98.4%), B (100%, 96.8%, 96.8%), C (100%, 98.4%, 98.4%), DPA1 (100%, 96.8%, 96.8%), DPB1 (100%, 100%, 98.4%), DQA1 (100%, 98.4%, 98.4%), DQB1 (100%, 98.4%, 98.4%), DRB1 (83.9%, 64.5%, 64.5%), DRB3 (82.6%, 73.9%, 73.9%), DRB4 (100%, 100%, 100%) and DRB5 (100%, 100%, 100%). By running our pipeline on an additional R10.3 flow cell batch of 63 samples, the following percent concordances were obtained: : A (100%, 96.8%, 88.1%), B (100%, 90.5.4%, 88.1%), C (100%, 99.2%, 99.2%), DPA1 (100%, 98.4%, 97.6%), DPB1 (98.4%, 97.6%, 92.9%), DQA1 (100%, 100%, 98.4%), DQB1 (100%, 97.6%, 96.0%), DRB1 (88.9%, 68.3%, 68.3%), DRB3 (81.0%, 61.9%, 61.9%), DRB4 (100%, 97.4%, 94.7%) and DRB5 (73.3%, 66.7%, 66.7%). In addition, our pipeline demonstrated significantly improved concordance compared to publicly available pipeline HLA-LA and concordances close to Athlon2 in commercial development.
Conclusion:
Our algorithm had a >96% concordance for non-DRB genes at 3rd field on the first batch and >88% concordance for non-DRB genes at 3rd field and >90% at 2nd field on the second batch tested. In addition, it out-performs HLA-LA and approaches the performance of the Athlon2. This lays groundwork for better utilizing Nanopore sequencing data for HLA typing especially in improving organ transplant outcomes.
Feelings of ‘Stigma, Shame, and Guilt’: An Inductive Thematic Analysis Exploring The Lived Experiences of Eating Disorders.
Authors: Suratwala T
Published: February 2024

Purpose:
The purpose of this qualitative research was to express those with Lived Experience(s) (LE) of Eating Disorder(s) (ED) and look at themes related to ED illness and the shared LEs. This review describes key themes of: ‘Stigma, Shame, and Guilt’, the symptoms and aetiology of EDs.
Design/Methodology:
Exploring a thematic analysis approach, the use of explored themes and the collection of rich data in capturing (two online bloggers) LEs of EDs. Using digital forums to search for written, accessible blogs related to those with LEs of EDs. Blog content and specific search terms were used as part of the preliminary selection process.
Findings:
Revealing significant feelings of ‘stigma, shame, and guilt’ with Anorexia and Bulimia, although two online bloggers shared their experiences, little was divulged about their inner emotions. There were positives for healthcare professionals who can learn about ED LEs. Moving forward any intervention must deal with these emotions in addition to the ED itself to gain a better understanding of living with the disorder. Future longitudinal studies focusing on psychodynamic themes and other shared risks could help enrich the understanding of EDs aetiology.
Originality:
This review relates to a surge of shame in EDs and the need to focus research on healthcare experiences and active health intervention, particularly in developed countries within the West. The value of EDs LEs described in the study themes of: ‘Stigma, Shame, and Guilt’ and their manifestations, coupled with a variety of biopsychosocial issues and the aetiology of EDs.
Effects of saline water irrigation on the soil salinity, yield and quality of field-grown winter jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill. “Dongzao”)
Authors: Cong Xin , Wang Kun , Pang Guibin , Dou Xiangzhou , Wang Tianyu , Xu Zhenghe
Published: February 2024

[Aims] The shortage of freshwater resources and soil salinization have always been considerable challenges for agricultural production in the Yellow River Delta. Safe and efficient use of saline water resources is thus urgently needed.
[Methods] To reveal the effects of irrigation with underground saline water on soil salinity, yield and quality of drip-irrigated winter jujube, a field trial was conducted from 2020 to 2022. The experiment was conducted with 5 levels of blending a mix of groundwater and freshwater, namely, 1.7 (T1), 3.3 (T2), 4.9 (T3), 6.5 (T4) and 8.1 (T5) dS·m-1.
[Results] The results for three aspects were as follows: (i) Soil surface salinity accumulation occurred when the irrigation water salinity was greater than 4.9 dS·m-1 in 2020, and salinity was maintained in balance in the following two years owing to adequate rainfall during the planting period. (ii) Compared to T1, irrigation with 3.3 dS·m-1 or 4.9 dS·m-1 of saline water had no significant effect on yield, and the winter jujube yield decreased with increasing irrigation water salinity. (iii) Saline water irrigation improved winter jujube quality, as evidenced by the increase in soluble sugar, total soluble solids, titratable acid, vitamin C and flavonoid contents. When the irrigation water salinity ranged from 4.9 dS·m-1 to 8.1 dS·m-1, the comprehensive quality was within the appropriate scope.
[Conclusions] Considering the yield, quality and salt accumulation of winter jujube, drip irrigation is conducive to ensuring the sustainability of winter jujube with saline water salinities less than 4.9 dS·m-1.
Impaired drainage through capillary-venous networks contributes to age-related white matter loss
Authors: Shih Andy , Stamenkovic Stefan , Schmid Franca , Weitermann Nicolas , Takasaki Kevin , Bonney Stephanie , Sosa Maria , Li Yuandong , Benett Hannah , Kim Yongsoo , Waters Jack
Published: February 2024

The gradual loss of cerebral white matter contributes to cognitive decline during aging. However, microvascular networks that support the metabolic demands of white matter remain poorly defined. We used in vivo deep multi-photon imaging to characterize microvascular networks that perfuse cortical layer 6 and corpus callosum, a highly studied region of white matter in the mouse brain. We show that these deep tissues are exclusively drained by sparse and wide-reaching venules, termed principal cortical venules, which mirror vascular architecture at the human cortical-U fiber interface. During aging, capillary networks draining into deep branches of principal cortical venules are selectively constricted, reduced in density, and diminished in pericyte numbers. This causes hypo-perfusion in deep tissues, and correlates with gliosis and demyelination, whereas superficial tissues become relatively hyper-perfused. Thus, age-related impairment of capillary-venular drainage is a key vascular deficit that contributes to the unique vulnerability of cerebral white matter during brain aging.
Investigating the implementation of a complex intervention to reduce central line-associated bloodstream infections in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, using Normalisation Process Theory
Authors: Payne Victoria , Johnson Mark , Hunt Katherine , Prieto Jacqui
Published: February 2024

Background
Translating evidence into practice has been notoriously difficult within the field of infection prevention and control (IPC). Care bundles- a form of complex intervention with multiple interacting components, may reduce neonatal CLABSIs by 60%. However, it may be unclear if it is the bundle, the implementation process, or a combination of both, that results in CLABSI reductions. Therefore, understanding what works, how it works, and in what settings, is important to improve the translation of evidence into practice. The aim of this study was to investigate the implementation of a care bundle aimed at reducing CLABSIs in a UK neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).
Methods
A mixed-methods, focused ethnography design underpinned by Normalisation Process Theory. Normalization MeAsure Development (NoMAD) surveys, observations of practice with retrospective, dyadic think aloud interviews, and semi-structured interviews were used to investigate implementation. CLABSI rates and bundle adherence rates were collected. Data analysis used descriptive statistics and thematic analysis.
Results
The introduction of a care bundle into a tertiary UK NICU did not result in sustained reductions in CLABSIs, despite apparent increases in bundle adherence. There was only partial bundle implementation, with minimal changes in survey scores and influences across individual, team and organisational levels moderating bundle adoption. Local organisational culture sometimes undermined implementation efforts. Ultimately, there were challenges relating to reinforcement and endorsement of the bundle. Recommendations to improve bundle adoption include improving reinforcement, building in accountability, and improving collective knowledge management.
Conclusions
The introduction of a care bundle into a tertiary UK NICU did not result in sustained reductions in CLABSIs, which is one of few negative studies. Understanding the mechanisms by which an intervention works (or not) in specific contexts is important to optimise the delivery of evidence-based care.
Effect of Remineralizer on Soil Biological Quality
Authors: Rosalen Karina , Baretta Dilmar , Baretta Carolina Riviera Duarte Maluche , Filho Luiz Carlos Iunes Oliveira , Galina Jardel , Golin Icaro Luiz
Published: February 2024

The use of remineralizers has been highlighted as a viable option for alternative fertilizer sources. However, it is necessary to study the impacts of its use on the biological quality of the soil. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the remineralizer on the diversity of the edaphic fauna. The research was carried out in a randomized block design, with four replications and the following treatments: T0: control; T1: 100% of N-P-K; T2: Fertilization only with remineralizer; T3: 75% of N-P-K + remineralizer; T4: 75% of N-P-K + remineralizer + Azospirillum spp.; T5: 75% of N-P-K + remineralizer + Bacillus spp.; T6: 75% of N-P-K + Azospirillum spp.; T7: 75% of N-P-K + Bacillus spp. The soil fauna was sampled at two times of the year using pitfall traps, and soil samples were collected at the same points for explanatory variables (chemical and microbiological attributes of the soil). The diversity of groups varied between the collection times, and the most frequent were Collembola, Formicidae and Acarina. The use of remineralizer favored the diversity of groups and the establishment of Collembola populations compared to treatments with conventional fertilizer.
Selenium efficiency in preserving sperm quality and testicular characteristics of South African indigenous Zulu Rams exposed to heat stress
Authors: Lekola Khomotso Podile Molvia , Ngcobo Sakhile M. , Lehloenya Khoboso C.
Published: February 2024

The purpose of the study was to investigate selenium efficiency in preserving sperm quality and testicular parameters of the hardy South African indigenous Zulu Rams exposed to heat stress. A total of 20 indigenous Zulu rams between the ages of 2–5 years were used for semen collection. The rams were allocated into 4 groups namely: Selenium (Se); Selenium and testicular heat stress (SeTHs); Testicular heat stress (THs) and Control with Each group having five rams. The groups were balanced according to body weight and scrotal circumference. Selenium and SeTHs groups received sodium selenite orally on a bi-weekly basis for a period of 4 months. To induce heat stress, testicular heat insulation bags were wrapped around the testes of the testicular heat insulated (THs) ram group for 49 days to cover the duration of spermatogenesis. Semen was collected weekly from all 20 rams for 3 months while the 1st month was for selenium acclimatization, and testicular measurements were taken bi-weekly. ANOVA was used to separate mean values for sperm quality and Duncan was utilised to compare significant differences using Statistical Analysis Software. It was observed that selenium, SeTHs, and control group obtained similar total sperm motility, while THs group recorded a low (p < 0.05) total sperm motility. SeTHs group had a significantly high (p < 0.05) medium moving (92 ± 3.5) sperm cells as opposed to the other treatment groups. The semen collected from the THs group of rams displayed a significantly higher (p < 0.05) number of immotile sperm cells. The scrotal circumference for the rams supplemented with selenium was smaller (p < 0.05). The current study concluded that induced heat stress compromised the sperm quality parameters such as sperm motility, progressive motility and kinematic parameters. Furthermore, Se supplementation protected sperm cells against testicular heat stress whereby similar sperm quality results were observed in the semen from the group of rams supplemented with selenium including those that received selenium and were exposed to testicular heat insulation.
A Cardiac Audio Classification Method Based on Multidimensional Feature Expression
Authors: Hu Jing , Lv Siqi , Jie Ren , Ouyang Yan , He Jia
Published: February 2024

Heart sound auscultation plays a crucial role in the early diagnosis of cardiovascular diseases. In recent years, great achievements have been made in automatic heart sound classification; however, most methods are based on segmentation features and traditional classifiers, and do not fully use existing deep networks. This paper proposes a cardiac audio classification method based on image expression of multidimensional features (CACIEMDF). First, a 102-dimensional feature vector is designed by combining the characteristics of heart sound data in the time, frequency and statistical domains. Based on the feature vector, a two-dimensional feature projection space is constructed by PCA dimensionality reduction and the convex hull algorithm, and 102 pairs of coordinate representations of the feature vector in the two-dimensional plane are calculated. Each one-dimensional component of the feature vector corresponds to a pair of 2-d coordinate representations. Finally, the one-dimensional feature component value and its divergence from the two categories are used to fill the three channels of a color image, and a Gaussian model is used to dye the image to enrich its content. The color image is subsequently sent to a deep network such as ResNet50 for classification tasks. In this paper, three public heart sound datasets are fused, and experiments are conducted using the above methods. The results show that the proposed method can achieve a classification accuracy of 95.72% for the two-classification task of heart sounds when combined with the current deep network.
Effects of communication with others on postprandial blood glucose tolerance
Authors: Tsuji Ryohei , Furuya Futoshi , Sakaue Yusuke , Mukai Eri , Yamaura Kazuho , Nishihara Yoko , Manno Masanobu , Shiozawa Naruhiro , Okada Shima
Published: February 2024

The number of people experiencing loneliness is increasing, and loneliness has been reported to negatively impact health. Social communication has been proposed as a means of coping with loneliness, and socializing can reduce stress levels and improve glycemic control, although the temporal effects have not been well studied. Stress responses vary depending on the relationship with the partner, and interacting with strangers can cause higher stress levels. This study used a 2-h oral glucose tolerance test to investigate the short-term effects of social communication on biological indicators, including postprandial blood glucose levels. Three conditions were tested: no communication, friend communication, and stranger communication. Measurements included blood sugar levels, positive and negative emotions, and cortisol as an objective stress indicator. Interacting with friends reduced negative emotions, suppressed stress, lowered cortisol levels, and suppressed postprandial hyperglycemia. Conversely, interacting with strangers increased stress, cortisol, and postprandial blood sugar levels. Overall, social communication temporally influenced postprandial blood glucose levels. Socializing with friends had a positive impact on health by suppressing postprandial hyperglycemia associated with illness.
Application of a geospatial query tool to characterize retail food environment and examine associations with dietary quality: evidence from three Chilean cities from the SALURBAL project
Authors: Botelho Laís Vargas , Oliveira Carvalho Ramos Salles , Auchincloss Amy H. , Justiniano Irene Carolina Sousa , de Pina Maria Fátima , Matos Vanderlei Pascoal , Skaba Daniel Albert , Saavedra-Garcia Lorena , Herrera Tamara Doberti , Cardoso Letícia Oliveira , Menezes Mariana Carvalho
Published: February 2024

Background
Little work has been done in Latin American contexts to characterize food retail environments and assess its influence on dietary behaviours. In particular, food retail environment data do not exist for Chilean contexts. The aim of this study is to characterize the retail food environment across neighbourhoods in three major Chilean cities and explore possible associations between the retail food environment and fruit and vegetable consumption among its residents.
Methods
A geospatial query tool was used to identify, georeference, and classify food establishments (FE, n = 48400) across 3 large Chilean cities (Santiago, Valparaíso, Concepción). Neighbourhood characteristics came from the 2017 Census (n = 2442 neighbourhoods) and person level data came from the 2017 National Health Survey (Encuesta Nacional de Salud, n = 1275 adults). Lower dietary quality was proxied by non-daily consumption of a fruit or vegetable (ND-FV, prevalence 17.3%). Random intercept logistic regression models adjusted for survey participant age, gender, educational attainment, neighbourhood population density and social environment.
Results
Median density of FE was 41.36 per km^2 and the density of FE increased with neighbourhood population density and more favourable social environment. Ready-to-consume FE and small food retail were the most prevalent types (68% and 11%, respectively); and the adjusted odds of ND-FV consumption was approximately 20% higher with increases in the z-score of those FE types. No associations were found between other types of FE and ND-FV consumption.
Conclusion
These findings underscore the need for targeted public policies aimed at promoting healthier food environments, reducing social inequalities in food access within Chilean cities, and improving dietary quality.
Association between periodontitis and NAFLD-related diseases: Results from the NHANES and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Huang Yanqiu , Wang Wenhui , Wang Xiaoyu , Yuan Jie , Xu Jinfan , Yang Yang , Shi Wentao , Li Xiaoguang , Wang Hui
Published: February 2024

Background & Aim
There are contradictory causal links between disorders associated to non-alcoholic fatty liver and periodontitis. The purpose of this research is to use Mendelian randomization (MR) to establish a causal association between periodontitis and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), including the latter's development to liver fibrosis.
Materials and Methods
The study included 4,425 people from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted in the United States between 2009 and 2014. The study employed two multivariable logistic regression models to evaluate the correlation between advanced fibrosis (AF) and periodontitis, as well as NAFLD. Model 1 did not involve any covariate adjustments; model 2 controlled for age, gender, and race; model 3 was additionally adjusted for Body Mass Index (BMI), education level, household income poverty ratio, smoking status, physical activity, and history of diabetes. Periodontitis (n:17,353 cases/28,210 controls) was used as the exposure, and NAFLD (n:2,275 cases/375,002 controls), fibrosis (n:146 cases/373,307 controls), cirrhosis (n:1,142 cases/373,307 controls) and fibrosis/cirrhosis (n:1,841 cases/366, 450 cases control) as outcomes and causality validation was performed. Sensitivity studies, such as heterogeneity tests, multiple validity tests, and exclusion analyses, were also carried out to guarantee the trustworthiness of the findings.
Results
In the observational study, there was no significant correlation between periodontitis and NAFLD (OR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.64–1.95) or AF (OR: 1.06, 95% CI: 0.72–1.56). The MR analysis found no significant association between genetically predicted periodontitis and liver conditions in the IVW method (NAFLD: OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 0.98 − 1.27; fibrosis: OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.50 − 1.42; cirrhosis: OR:0.99, 95% CI: 0.82 − 1.19; fibrosis/cirrhosis: OR: 0.92, 95% CI: 0.83 − 1.26). There is consistency in sensitivity results.
Conclusions
According to cross-sectional research, there is no discernible link between NAFLD or liver fibrosis and periodontal disease, and the MR analysis does not support a causal relationship between them.
Unanticipated elimination of bulimia symptoms following a cervical sympathetic block for treating Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) : A Case Report
Authors: Lipov Eugene G. , Rolain Hunter , Lammers Luke
Published: February 2024

Objective
Report the efficacy of cervical sympathetic block (CSB) in treating PTSD as well as bulimia symptoms and discuss possible mechanisms of action to explain these findings.
Background
Successful treatment of PTSD with CSB has been reported previously in several publications. Bulimia has been associated with comorbid PTSD and is often comorbid with PTSD. Treatment of PTSD could be an effective approach to treat bulimia.
Methods
The patient received bilateral CSB at C6 and C4 levels on the right side followed 1 day later by the left side, as per clinic protocol. The patient’s PTSD symptoms were evaluated using the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5). This checklist was administered one day before treatment and again 45 days later following treatment.
Results
CSB showed marked benefit for PTSD symptoms as demonstrated by significant reduction of PCL-5 scores following the bilateral CSB procedures. The patient spontaneously reported complete and persistent elimination of bulimia symptoms. Reduction of PTSD and bulimia symptoms were sustained at the 45-day follow-up.
Conclusion
CSB is a minimally invasive procedure with an excellent safety profile that may provide sustained relief of PTSD and bulimia symptoms. Considering the marked difficulties in treating bulimia, CSB may be a new ray of hope for the bulimia cohort. We believe CSB should be studied as a therapeutic approach for eating disorder patients with associated trauma in adequately powered studies.
Performance and bilateral asymmetries of upper and lower extremity dynamic strength and balance in young soccer players
Authors: Sha Zhanxin , Dai Boyi
Published: February 2024

Background
Quantification of asymmetry among upper and lower extremities is informative to assess whether an individual may be at risk of injury or performance deficits. In terms of sexes and age differences in functional movement, there is no consistent outcome. The present cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the effects of sex and age on performance and asymmetries in countermovement jump, landing, and upper and lower extremity balance tasks.
Method
174 young soccer players (Age 7–9 yrs: 19 females and 15 males; Age 10 − 12 yrs.: 38 females and 30 males; Age 13–17 yrs.: 16 females and 25 males; Age > 18 yrs.: 15 females and 16 males) participated in the study. Countermovement Jump and Landing, Maximum Push-up, and upper and lower extremity balance tests were evaluated for each participant. A repeated measures (age groups × sex) analysis of variance (ANOVA) test was used to compare variables between sexes and age groups (p < .05). Whenever the ANOVA revealed a significant factor, pairwise comparisons were performed using Bonferroni corrections.
Result
Age played a significant role in peak force from landing, asymmetry of landing peak force, jump height, and peak force from push-up for the right and left sides. In terms of sex effects on dependent variables, statistical significances were observed for jump height, peak force from landing, and peak force from push-up. Except for the asymmetry of landing peak force, no statistical significance is observed in the effects of age and/or sex on the other asymmetry variables.
Conclusion
Soccer players may need more upper and lower-extremity dynamic balance training to improve dynamic balance over time. Landing technique training should be implemented for young age soccer players to decrease their high landing forces. Asymmetries should be evaluated on an individual basis as their relationships with age and sex were weak.
Effects of Normal Stress on Shear Properties and Acoustic Emission Characteristics of Bonded Rock-Concrete Interfaces
Authors: Chen Yan , Yang Jiangfan , Hou Zhiqiang , Liu Dejun , Zuo Jianping
Published: February 2024

Laboratory direct shear and acoustic emission tests are conducted on standard cylinder specimens with varying levels of normal stress. The aim is to gain a better understanding of shear behavior and failure mechanisms of the bonded interface. The results show that increasing of normal stress enhances the brittleness of the specimens. In addition, the test shows that the failure degree of specimens increases with the different normal stresses. The test results show that high amplitude AE peak energy and count generation occur when the specimens reach the peak shear stress. Meanwhile, with the increase of normal stress, the cumulative acoustic emission energy before peak stress increases slightly, but the cumulative acoustic emission count before peak stress decreases. AE b-value proves to be an effective parameter for reflecting the crack size and main crack surface of rock-concrete specimens. The fluctuation value of the AE-b value is influenced by the normal stress.
Three model ensemble perspectives on volatility prediction and Model ensemble algorithm based on count weighting
Authors: Li Yicun , Teng Yuanyang
Published: February 2024

This research is a study of predicting realized volatility of five representative indexes in A-share market. This paper collects 12 classical Volatility Prediction Models and compares their prediction performance systematically. The second step of the research is to collect 9 financial and economic features, which are divided into three feature sets, and make a comparative study on a total of 6 machine learning models of support vector machine (SVM), random forests and four neural networks with different structures. Finally, we propose 3 ensemble perspectives: feature ensemble, structure ensemble, model ensemble. Moreover, in the research of model ensemble, we find the selection of component models in ensemble models is usually performance stably. This can be seen from the counts of component models in ensemble models. As a result, we propose a new algorithm called “Model ensemble algorithm based on count weighting” which performance better than Simple average ensemble model.
Postmortem lipid abnormalities in the cerebellum of patients with essential tremor
Authors: Simard Mélissa , Mélançon Koralie , Berthiaume Line , Tremblay Cyntia , Pshevorskiy Laura , Julien Pierre , Rajput Ali H , Rajput Alex , Calon Frédéric
Published: February 2024

Fatty acids play many critical roles in brain function but have not been investigated in essential tremor (ET), a frequent movement disorder suspected to involve cerebellar dysfunction. Here, we report a postmortem analysis of fatty acid profiles by gas chromatography in the cerebellar cortex from ET patients (n=15), Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients (n=15) and Controls (n=17). Phosphatidylcholine (PC), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE) and phosphatidylinositol (PI)/ phosphatidylserine (PS) were separated by thin-layer chromatography and analyzed separately. First, the total amounts of fatty acids retrieved from the cerebellar cortex were lower in ET patients, including monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), such as docosahexaenoic (DHA) and arachidonic (ARA) acids. The diagnosis of ET was associated with lower cerebellar levels of saturated fatty acids (SFA) and PUFA (DHA and ARA) in the PE fraction specifically, but with a higher relative content of dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA; 20:3 ω-6) in the PC fraction. In contrast, a diagnosis of PD was associated with higher absolute concentrations of SFA, MUFA and ω-6 PUFA in the PI+PS fractions. However, relative PI+PS contents of ω-6 PUFA were lower in both PD and ET patients. Finally, linear regression analyses showed that the ω-3:ω-6 PUFA ratio was positively associated with age of death, but inversely associated with insoluble α-synuclein. Although it remains unclear how these FA changes in the cerebellum are implicated in ET or PD pathophysiology, they may be related to an ongoing neurodegenerative process or to dietary intake differences. The present findings provide a window of opportunity for lipid-based therapeutic nutritional intervention.
Surgical Outcomes and Quality of Life After Anti-reflux Surgery
Authors: Haro Camila , Muniz Nicolás , Rabellino Juan , Castelli Fernando , Viola Marcelo
Published: February 2024

Background: Gastro esophageal reflux disease (GERD) has an increasing incidence, ranging from 10% to 20% in western countries. Anti-reflux surgery is indicated in patients that cannot sustain a long-term proton pump inhibitor (PPI) treatment, those in whom it is not effective, and those who associate a hiatal hernia (HH).
The aim of this study is to evaluate anti-reflux surgery results in our institution, and asses the patient’s postoperative quality of life.
Methods: We analyzed all patients submitted to laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery at Médica Uruguaya Corporación de Asistencia Médica (MUCAM) over the last 13 years. A quality-of-life (QOL) questionnaire was performed to evaluate surgical outcomes.
Results: 103 patients were included, 80% were female and the average age was 59 years. 70% presented with GERD symptoms and 65% had a type III or IV HH. A Nissen fundoplication was performed in 98% of patients and a Toupet fundoplication in the remaining 2%.
There was no mortality or need for conversion. Five patients had an early stenosis; four required reoperation and one an endoscopic dilation. Six patients required a late reoperation.
92% of patients answered the QOL questionnaire. 21% of respondents presented postoperative dysphagia and 37% are currently under PPI treatment, but these only affects the QOL of 1% and 3% of patients, respectively. 91% of those surveyed are satisfied with their current situation.
Discussion: Our results coincide with those presented in the literature, showing that anti-reflux surgery is a safe procedure, that has a high satisfaction rate among patients.
New Coupled Thermoelasticity Boundary-Value Problems in Strains
Authors: Khaldjigitov A. A. , Djumayozov Umidjon
Published: February 2024

This work is devoted to the formulation and numerical solution of coupled boundary value problems of thermoelasticity with respect to deformations. Two equivalent coupled boundary value problems of thermoelasticity with respect to strain and temperature are proposed. The first consists of six differential equations of thermoelasticity found within the framework of the compatibility conditions of Saint-Venant deformations and the heat influx equation with the corresponding initial and boundary conditions. In the second case, the first three of the six differential equations of thermoelasticity are replaced with three differentiated equations of motion. The validity of the formulated two boundary value problems of thermoelasticity is justified by comparing their numerical, obtained by the variable direction method and recurrence relations, as well as solving a similar related problem regarding displacements.
Effect of Compositions and Heat Treatments of Polypropylene/PP-g- MAH/CuO-TiO2 composites on Thermal, Crystallization and Antimicrobial Properties
Authors: Govindasamy G Ambarasan , Sreekan Srimala , Saharudin Khairul Arifah , Ong Ming Thong , Thavamany Priscilla Jayanthi , Sahgal Geethaa , Tan Aik Aun
Published: February 2024

The leading cause of increased mortality rates is infections from implanted medical devices, with catheters accounting for more than 80% of these infections. Polypropylene (PP) composites with antimicrobial properties were developed by adding binary mixed oxide (CuO-TiO2). The outcomes demonstrated that the spreading and encapsulation of CuO-TiO2 particles in the PP matrix was much better with incorporation of PP-g-MAH compatibilizer. Matrix crystallinity is affected by addition of compatibilizers, the amount of CuO-TiO2, and heat treatments. The synergy effect of CuO-TiO2 as antimicrobial agents was analyzed. The antibacterial efficacy's reliance on matrix crystallinity is elucidated in relation with various heat treatments, PP-g-MAH compatibilizer, and amount of CuO-TiO2. PP made of binary mixed oxides (e.g., CuO and TiO2) and 3 wt% PP-g-MAH that was processed with a low degree of crystallinity increased the material’s capability of effectively rendering plausible antimicrobial species (e.g., •O2−, •OH−, and Cu2+) with excellent antimicrobial efficacy towards Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). This innovative composite, CuO-TiO2-PP, offers new perspectives on managing bloodstream infections associated with catheter use.
Semi-automatic scan-to-BIM procedure applied to architectural ornaments of Nossa Senhora do Rosário Church, Aracati-CE
Authors: Vieira Mylene M. , Gonçalves José Ermerson , Silva Dárcio Matheus O. , Mesquita Esequiel F. T. , Lima Jerfson M.
Published: February 2024

Heritage constructions in general presents a complex geometry and shapes. The work of generating an accurate digital model of a historical building still a challenge. Heritage Building Information Modelling (HBIM) from point cloud data is a usual methodology to cultural heritage documentation. Scan-to-BIM summarize a workflow from point cloud survey to parametric BIM elements. This paper aims to develop a semi-automatic scan-to-BIM procedure for architectural ornaments of Nossa Senhora do Rosario Church, enhancing the geometrical accuracy of the model and reducing the time-consuming process. The workflow handles with point cloud capture of existing historical building, point cloud segmentation, initial mesh generation from point cloud, mesh improvement and HBIM parametric object creation in BIM environment. The results from initial application and then from the validation of the methodology indicates that the scan-to-BIM procedure is useful for HBIM modelling.
Proteomic Profiling of Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Human Serum for the Discovery of Biomarkers in Avascular Necrosis
Authors: Sung Soo-Eun , Lim Ju-Hyeon , Kang Kyung-Ku , Choi Joo-Hee , Lee Sijoon , Sung Minkyoung , Park Wook-Tae , Kim Young-In , Seo Min-Soo , Lee Gun Woo
Published: February 2024

Background Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a medical condition characterized by the destruction of bone tissue due to a diminished blood supply. When the rate of tissue destruction surpasses the rate of regeneration, effective treatment becomes challenging, leading to escalating pain, arthritis, and bone fragility as the disease advances. A timely diagnosis is imperative to prevent and initiate proactive treatment for osteonecrosis. We explored the potential of differentially expressed proteins in serum-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) as biomarkers for AVN of the femoral head in humans. We analyzed the genetic material contained in serum-derived exosomes from patients for early diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of avascular necrosis. Methods EVs were isolated from the serum of both patients with AVN and a control group of healthy individuals. Proteomic analyses were conducted to compare the expression patterns of these proteins by proteomic analysis using LC-MS/MS. Results Our results show that the levels of IGHV3-23, FN1, VWF, FGB, PRG4, FCGBP, and ZSWIM9 were upregulated in the EVs of patients with AVN compared with those of healthy controls. ELISA results showed that VWF and PRG4 were significantly upregulated in the patients with AVN. Conclusions These findings suggest that these EV proteins could serve as promising biomarkers for the early detection and diagnosis of AVN. Early diagnosis is paramount for effective treatment, and the identification of new osteonecrosis biomarkers is essential to facilitate swift diagnosis and proactive intervention. Our study provides novel insights into the identification of AVN-related biomarkers that can enhance clinical management and treatment outcomes
Continuous Planning for Inertial-Aided Systems
Authors: Usayiwevu Mitchell , Sukkar Fouad , Yoo Chanyeol , Fitch Robert , Vidal-Calleja Teresa
Published: February 2024

Inertial-aided systems require continuous motion excitation among other reasons to characterize the measurement biases that will enable accurate integration required for localization frameworks. This paper proposes the use of informative path planning to find the best trajectory for minimizing the uncertainty of IMU biases and an adaptive traces method to guide the planner towards trajectories that aid convergence. The key contribution is a novel regression method based on Gaussian Process (GP) to enforce continuity and differentiability between waypoints from a variant of the RRT planning algorithm. We employ linear operators applied to the GP kernel function to infer not only continuous position trajectories, but also velocities and accelerations. The use of linear functionals enable velocity and acceleration constraints given by the IMU measurements to be imposed on the position GP model. The results from both simulation and real-world experiments show that planning for IMU bias convergence helps minimize localization errors in state estimation frameworks.
A bibliometric analysis of research hotspots and cutting-edge trends in cardiovascular disease biomarkers
Authors: Sun Xiangyu , Wu Xiaoli , Wu Ting-Ting , Xie Xiang
Published: February 2024

Background
Biomarkers have increasingly played a significant role in the diagnosis, prognosis, and risk assessment of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in recent years. Nonetheless, a comprehensive and systematic organization evaluating cardiovascular biomarkers within the existing literature has been notably absent.
Methods
Gathering relevant literature on cardiovascular biomarkers from the Web of Science Core Collection, followed by scientific bibliometric analyses using VOSviewer, CiteSpace, and bibliometrix to explore the spatiotemporal distribution, top authors, countries, references, keywords, research hotspots, and trends in the literature.
Results
Furnishing fundamental insights into research in this domain, indicating a progressive surge in related studies. CVD biomarkers linked to blood have been identified in urine, saliva, and sweat. Research hotspots that garner significant attention in this field include inflammation levels, immune modulation, cardiac stress, coagulation function, endothelial dysfunction, lipid status, oxidative stress, matrix remodeling, DNA methylation, and micrornas. Epigenetics and genomics are currently experiencing a burgeoning phase of research activity.
Conclusion
Many CVD biomarkers found in the blood can also be detected in other body fluids. Furthermore, there are specific CVD biomarkers present in different body fluids. Therefore, utilizing non-invasive testing methods for collecting patient's non-blood body fluids has been proven to be a reliable approach for predicting, diagnosing, and assessing prognosis.
A Logic-Tree Based Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment for the Central Ionian Islands of Cephalonia and Ithaca (Western Greece)
Authors: Kaviris George , Zymvragakis Angelos , Kapetanidis Vasilis , Kouskouna Vasiliki , Spingos Ioannis , Sakellariou Nikolaos , Voulgaris Nicholas
Published: February 2024

The Central Ionian Islands of Cephalonia and Ithaca belong to the most seismically active Greek region, mainly due to the presence of the dextral Cephalonia-Lefkada Transform Fault Zone. The study area has experienced strong earthquakes in the 20th century, including the destructive 1953 sequence with maximum intensity 9.0. The Paliki peninsula, western Cephalonia, hosted two strong earthquakes (Mw= 6.1 and 5.8) in 2014, with ground acceleration reaching ~560 cm/s2 and 735 cm/s2, respectively. This study updates the seismic hazard evaluation in Cephalonia and Ithaca using new data and computational techniques to reduce epistemic uncertainties. The probabilistic approach of Cornell and McGuire was used, and the uncertainties are reduced through data variability of the source models, seismicity data, and Ground Motion Prediction Equations using a logic tree approach, sampled by implementing the Latin Hypercube Sampling method. The spatial distribution of Peak Ground Acceleration and Peak Ground Velocity for return periods of 475 and 950 years indicates low variation in the entire study area and that the Paliki peninsula possesses the highest level of seismic hazard. Additionally, site-specific analysis across the three main towns, Lixouri and Argostoli in Cephalonia and Vathi in Ithaca, reveals that Lixouri has the greatest level of seismic hazard, while Vathi the lowest.
Graphene Oxide Boosted: A Multifaceted Examination of CZTS Composite for Enhanced Photocatalysis and Antimicrobial Efficacy
Authors: Cavusoglu Halit , Ibrahim Marwah Ali , Sakalak Hüseyin , Günes Erdogan , Uysal Ahmet , Çıtak Emre , Öztürk Teoman
Published: February 2024

Because of their acute toxicity and long-lasting effects on the environment such as chemical accidents, agricultural runoff, and industrial effluents, has raised concerns around the world. Semiconductor-based photocatalysis has gained prominence for its ability to degrade organic contaminants comprehensively, providing a potential solution to the limitations of the conventional methods. This study addresses the environmental repercussions of dye contamination and explores the utilization of active semiconductor photocatalysts for effective wastewater treatment. Our focus lies in synthesizing CZTS through the hydrothermal route, a method gaining traction for its simplicity and environmental viability. To augment the photocatalytic efficiency of semiconductor materials, graphene oxide (GO) has been introduced with varying GO concentrations of 5% and 10%. Additionally, the study explores the performance of CZTS nanoparticles with varying GO concentrations for antibacterial applications against eight Gram-positive/negative bacterial strains and its catalytic prowess in the photodegradation of methylene blue dye under ultraviolet light.