bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Safe Spaces for Immersive Safety Training in Virtual Reality: A Phenomenological Conceptualization
Authors: Haj-Bolouri Amir
Published: August 2024

Immersive Virtual Reality (IVR) technology has been shown to effectively facilitate fire safety training. However, the current discourse on immersive safety training provides scarce knowledge on the quality of immersive safety training from the perspective of safe spaces. In turn, the general notion of a safe space – being an environment that is characterized by the freedom to move, share, talk, and act freely without risk for physical or mental damage – needs further elaboration in an IVR training context where the experience of safety is highly interrelated with embodiment and immersion. This study employed thus a phenomenological approach to explore and conceptualize characteristics of immersive safe spaces. This was done through phenomenological interviews with employees at Sweden’s largest train operating company, which undertook fire safety training in IVR by using an IVR application known as the “Fire Trainer”. The interview material was then analyzed through an Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) that conceptualized four themes for characterizing immersive safe spaces: Sense of Authentic Hazard Recognition, Sense of Behavioral Responsiveness, Sense of Intersubjective Risk Perception, and Sense of Embodied Atmosphere. Implications of conceptualizing the themes are targeted towards understanding the quality of being/feeling safe during safety training in IVR, and how the design of future immersive fire safety environments might benefit from employing the proposed themes.
Customized Avatars In A Multiplatform Game On Mobile And Virtual Reality For Hospitalized Children In Hemato-Oncology: A Conceptual Design
Authors: Guingo Estelle , Paquin David , Côtes-Turpin Casey , Addab Sofia , Vézina Cathy , Côtes-Charlebois Félix , Le May Sylvie
Published: August 2024

The hospital is an environment that may induce both anxiety and pain in hospitalized children and their families. The use of games and distraction offers a solution to better manage anxiety and pain. The objective of the present paper is to introduce “A Friend for Life,” a multi-platform game based on the creation of customized avatars to help children hospitalized in the hematology-oncology unit cope with their everyday pain and anxiety. This smartphone and virtual reality application uses the IKEA Effect and transmedia storytelling to improve child engagement in the game.
This game was developed as part of AVATAR, a research project that combines collaborative action research with co-design. The project is led by our multidisciplinary team with relevant experience in nursing, pediatrics, hematology-oncology, and new technology. Also, our team includes a former patient and a former patient’s parent.
In this paper, we introduce our serious game, “A Friend for Life”, and the collaborative development method that was used in the prototyping phase. Additionally, we will outline our hypothetical conceptual framework and its underlying concepts. Finally, we discuss the game's limitations and directions for future research.
The current role of dendritic cells in the progression and treatment of colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Yuanci , Ji Songtao , Miao Ge , Du Shuya , Wang Haojia , Yang Xiaohua , Li Ang , Lu Yuanyuan , Wang Xin , Zhao Xiaodi
Published: August 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Dendritic cells (DCs) constitute a heterogeneous group of antigen-presenting cells that are important for initiating and regulating both innate and adaptive immune responses. As a crucial component of the immune system, DCs have a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and clinical treatment of CRC. DCs cross-present tumor-related antigens to activate T cells and trigger an antitumor immune response. However, the antitumor immune function of DCs is impaired and immune tolerance is promoted due to the presence of the tumor microenvironment. This review systematically elucidates the specific characteristics and functions of different DC subsets, as well as the role that DCs play in the immune response and tolerance within the CRC microenvironment. Moreover, how DCs contribute to the progression of CRC and potential therapies to enhance antitumor immunity on the basis of existing data are also discussed, which will provide new perspectives and approaches for immunotherapy in patients with CRC.
Cohesive zone modeling of the buckling behavior of a fusion-joined, additive-manufactured wind blade
Authors: Cao Dongyang , Lu Hongbing , Griffith Daniel Todd
Published: August 2024

In this article, the use of additive-manufactured thermoplastics, specifically polylactic acid (PLA), to fabricate segments of wind turbine blades with core sandwich composites was verified through their compressive bucking performance, demonstrating their cost-effectiveness in manufacturing and transportation. A small wind blade was constructed by joining these segments to demonstrate their application potential in renewable energy technologies. The study’s focus was on the compressive buckling behavior of these fusion-joined blades, particularly on the heterogeneity at the resistance welding bond line. An approach was adopted to integrate a hybrid of solid and cohesive elements within the cohesive zone modeling (CZM) framework using the Abaqus–Riks method. This allowed us to insert a thin layer of solid–cohesive elements at the bond line, enhancing the fidelity of our simulations. The validity of our numerical results was examined by comparing them with the surface strain field measured by digital image correlation (DIC) and assessing the compressive response. Furthermore, the applicability of classical Euler and Johnson formulas was evaluated in predicting buckling loads and modes. The Euler formula was found adequate for the first flexural buckling mode in beams with high slenderness ratios (≥12). Our findings demonstrate that the hybrid CZM approach effectively models the buckling behavior of fusion-joined beams, accommodating a range of slenderness ratios (6 to 18) and various buckling modes. This study provides insights into the structural analysis of fusion-joined components for potential applications of additive manufacturing in wind energy.
Enhancing Energy Efficiency in Green Buildings Through Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Feng Zhang , Ge Minyue , Meng Qian
Published: August 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to revolutionize the architectural design and energy management of green buildings, offering significant advancements in sustainability and efficiency. This paper explores the transformative impact of AI on improving energy efficiency and reducing carbon emissions in commercial buildings. By leveraging AI algorithms, architects can optimize building performance through advanced environmental analysis, automation of repetitive tasks, and real-time data-driven decision-making. AI facilitates precise energy consumption forecasting and integration of renewable energy sources, enhancing the overall sustainability of buildings. Our study demonstrates that AI can reduce energy consumption and CO2 emissions by approximately 8% and 19%, respectively, in typical mid-size office buildings by 2050 compared to conventional methods. Further, the combination of AI with energy efficiency policies and low-emission energy production is projected to yield reductions of up to 40% in energy consumption and 90% in CO2 emissions. This paper provides a systematic approach for quantifying AI's benefits across various building types and climate zones, offering valuable insights for decision-makers in the construction industry.
STUDI EFEKTIVITAS PEMBELAJARAN SISTEM BLOK PADA MATA PELAJARAN PRODUKTIF TEKNIK PEMESINAN
Authors: Safitri Diya Zalfa Aisyah , Firmanta Denny Aji , Setyawan Frendy Nur , Prayitno Garindo , Puswadi Hendri Aldi , Anggesa Ilham Agum Fitra , Putra Chandra Denny Kurniawan , Suharno Suharno
Published: August 2024

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the block system learning in the productive subject of Machining Engineering at SMK Negeri 5 Surakarta. Utilizing a qualitative approach, the research findings indicate that the implementation of the block system enhances student engagement, deepens theoretical understanding, and improves practical skills. Interview analyses and case studies highlight a shift from a teacher-centered to a more participatory learning approach. Positive implications of constructivist and competency-based learning are evident in the enhanced quality of learning outcomes. The conclusion emphasizes the effectiveness of the block system learning as a relevant vocational education model aligned with industry needs. Recommendations include the development of teaching methods, increased industry involvement, and further research. Gratitude is extended to SMK Negeri 5 Surakarta, educators, students, and supporters who contributed to this research.
PENGARUH KEAKTIFAN BERORGANISASI DAN KETERAMPILAN KOMUNIKASI INTERPERSONAL TERHADAP INDEKS PRESTASI KUMULATIF MAHASISWA PENDIDIKAN TEKNIK KEJURUAN FKIP UNS
Authors: Iqbal Muhammad , Sutrisno Valiant Lukad Perdana , Ranto Ranto
Published: August 2024

This study aims to determine the influence between organizational activeness and interpersonal communication skills both partially and simultaneously on the cumulative achievement index in FKIP UNS Vocational Technical Education students. This study uses a quantitative ex-post facto method. The population in this study is the administrators of the association for the 2023 period from the departments of Mechanical Engineering Education, Building Engineering Education, and Informatics Engineering Education. Sampling in this study uses a total sampling technique with a total of 153 respondents. The data collection technique uses questionnaires and documentation. The data obtained were processed through prerequisite tests consisting of normality tests, linearity tests, and multicollinearity tests. The data met the prerequisite test, a hypothesis test was carried out with multiple linear regression analysis.The results of the study showed that: (1) There is a significant influence of organizational activity and interpersonal communication skills simultaneously on the cumulative achievement index in FKIP UNS Vocational Technical Education students, this is evidenced by the F value calculated 9.354 > F table 3.06 and R square of 11.2%; (2) There was a significant influence of organizational activity on the cumulative achievement index of FKIP UNS Vocational Technical Education students with a calculated t value of 2.385 > t table t 1.65, effective contribution of 5.95% and relative contribution of 53%; (3) There was a significant influence of interpersonal communication skills on the cumulative achievement index of FKIP UNS Vocational Technical Education students with a calculated t value of 2.183 > t table 1.65, effective contribution of 5.25% and relative contribution of 47%.
Enseñanza del Derecho Internacional Privado en México
Authors: Albornoz María Mercedes , González Martín Nuria
Published: August 2024

En este artículo se parte de la premisa de que es esencial para México que su comunidad jurídica se familiarice con el Derecho Internacional Privado (DIPr). Por lo tanto, es importante examinar de cerca la metodología de enseñanza de la disciplina. El objetivo de este trabajo de investigación consiste en proporcionar un panorama claro y lo más completo posible de cómo se está enseñando el DIPr, enfocándose especialmente en el contexto mexicano, y en identificar los principales retos que la enseñanza de la disciplina enfrenta en el país. Para lograr ese objetivo se llevó a cabo un trabajo documental considerando tres fuentes de información: datos disponibles en diversos sitios web institucionales, escritos académicos y la experiencia personal de las autoras como profesoras en universidades mexicanas y como participantes en actividades organizadas por otras instituciones. Teniendo todo esto en cuenta, este artículo se centra en las siguientes cuestiones, cada una de las cuales corresponde a un apartado: dónde se imparte el DIPr, cómo se denominan los cursos, conferencias y talleres de DIPr, quiénes son las personas destinatarias de los cursos, conferencias y talleres de DIPr, qué contenidos de DIPr se enseñan y cómo se imparten.
THEORETICAL APPROACHES TO DETERMINING UKRAINE'S PLACE IN MODERN INTERNATIONAL ECONOMIC EXCHANGE
Authors: Mekhovych Serhiy , Laushkin Arkady , Zakharchenkov Oleksiy
Published: August 2024

The article noted that the dominant role in the economy is closely related to globalization, which, on the one hand, accelerates the international exchange of technologies and resources, promotes the development of international trade, and on the other hand - sharpens competition on the world market, gradually displacing it from the sphere of material goods and services to the world of knowledge, ideas and information. This changes the nature and role of industrial policy, which is increasingly subordinated to the task of developing a clear innovation strategy aimed at creating an effective infrastructure using the latest communication and information technologies. It is substantiated that basic economic categories form the basis of economic policy in the formation of international economic relations. Attention is focused on the need for further scientific influence of international trade and economic relations on the economic development of Ukraine. It is noted that the historical-institutional approach to the study of economic processes and phenomena in their unity, interdependence and interaction with other, non-economic spheres of economic life, in genetic-hereditary development should be the basis of the methodology of the retrospective study of the inclusion of the economy of Ukraine in the system of international economic relations. Factors that determine horizontal (network) and vertical (hierarchical) connections between elements of the world economic system are given. Among such factors, historical-cultural and socio-political factors occupy a prominent place along with technical-economic and organizational-spatial ones. The basic economic categories that form the basis of economic policy in the formation of international economic relations of the Ukrainian economy are highlighted. It is substantiated that the European Union is one of the potential superpowers. The main distinguishing features of European integration mechanisms are given. The main results of Ukraine's inclusion in the system of international economic exchange are revealed. It is justified that the economy remains the sphere that forces politicians and state leaders to act in one direction or another. This is expressed in the development of a model of the country's economic policy, which largely affects the behavior of business entities, the development of the main areas of activity and strategy.
SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL AREAS: GENERALIZATION OF THE EXPERIENCE OF THE EUROPEAN UNION
Authors: Demchenko Oleksandr
Published: August 2024

The article is devoted to identifying key trends in implementing the Common Agricultural Policy of the European Union and the European Green Deal in rural areas,
 
 
determining directions for efforts in the context of their sustainable development, and ensuring the reproduction of human capital in Ukraine. It was determined that the practical experience of the European Union in the implementation of agrarian and regional policy allows it to highlight the most priority areas of efforts to ensure the development of rural areas, namely, diversification of the economic activity of small and medium-sized agricultural producers, agricultural cooperation; state support for small organizational forms of agricultural producers; development of non-agricultural types of business activity; development and maintenance of a sufficient level of the social infrastructure of rural settlements; formation of sustainable food systems and reduction of the distance between the point of food production and its consumption; maintaining biodiversity; development of agricultural production according to the principles of the circular economy; development of organic production; rational use of land resources; preservation and reproduction of natural landscapes. The priority areas of efforts to ensure the sustainable development of rural areas of Ukraine are based on the generalization of the experience of the European Union, with the division into economic, social, and ecological components proposed. It is substantiated that the conceptual basis of the livelihood of rural areas of Ukraine is the principles of sustainable development; such an approach is irreplaceable in achieving harmony between the development of agricultural production and multifunctional rural areas. The multifunctionality of rural areas, together with the modern level of their social infrastructure, is a prerequisite for the formation of human capital.
Lake toxin concentrations increase when phosphorus is reduced
Authors: Schampera Charlotte , Merder Julian , Niemeyer Thomas , Pries Julia , Hellweger Ferdi
Published: August 2024

Cyanobacterial harmful algae blooms (e.g. those of Microcystis) and their toxins (e.g. microcystins - MCs) threaten the safe use of lakes for drinking and recreation and this hazard is anticipated to worsen due to a warming climate. Present management approaches aim at lowering biomass by reducing the input of the growth-limiting nutrient, typically phosphorus. It is assumed that phytoplankton stoichiometry (MC per biomass) remains constant and that cyanotoxins decrease proportionally. However, lower biomass due to phosphorus reduction means an increase in other resources, like nitrogen and light, which stimulate MC production (we show here a comprehensive summary of published laboratory results). High MC cell quotas benefit toxin-producing strains within the community, causing the toxigenic fraction to increase. While reducing phosphorus may increase MC concentrations in lakes, there is currently insufficient evidence from natural field conditions to support this effect. Here, we present two analyses leveraging the National Lakes Assessment (NLA) dataset. The first focuses on changes in MC concentration within individual lakes across time. In the second analysis, we applied Generalized Additive Models (GAMs) across all lakes and time points. Both analyses indicate that lower phosphorus levels reduce biomass but increase available inorganic nitrogen, available light the MC/biomass ratio, which, in turn, can lead to peaking MC concentrations. Hence, field data from hundreds of lakes confirm that a reduction in phosphorus increases MC concentrations. However, when nitrogen is reduced together with phosphorus, both biomass and MC concentrations decrease. As such, there is a surging need to focus on dual reduction management.
Preclinical evaluation of a cross-protective ß-SARS-CoV-2 virus-like particle vaccine adjuvanted with MF59
Authors: Torresi Joe , Earnest Linda , Ruiz Daniel , Edeling Melissa , Montoya Julio , Yap Ashley , Wong Chinn , Holz Lauren , Gras Stephanie , Collett Simon , Cooney James , Davidson Kathryn ,   Samantha Grimley1, Purcell Damian , Roberts Jason , Mumford Jamie , Tan Chee Wah , Wang Lin-Fa , Godfrey Dale , Hans Dhiraj , Vincan Elizabeth , Anderson Danielle , Subbarao Kanta , Pellegrini Marc , Rockman Steve , Heath William
Published: August 2024

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic led to the development of many vaccines, most notably the mRNA and recombinant adenoviral vaccines. Whilst the vaccines proved to be effective in preventing severe COVID disease, they failed to prevent infection or to control the ongoing emergence of vaccine escape variant viruses. The rapid waning of vaccine induced antibody responses has also necessitated frequent boosting.
Methods: We report the findings of a recombinant ß-SARS-CoV-2 variant virus like particle (VLP) vaccine. The ß-S13EM-SARS-CoV-2 VLPs were composed of the viral spike (S), membrane (M) and envelope (E) proteins. The VLPs were produced in Vero cell factories and purified from culture supernatants using tangential flow filtration, diafiltration, anion exchange chromatography and ultrafiltration and characterised by ELISA, Western blot, and electron microscopy. The vaccine was formulated with Addavax or MF59 and tested for immunogenicity and protection in mice.
Results: The ß-S13EM-SARS-CoV-2 VLPs were strongly reactive by ELISA probing with anti-S and anti-ß-RBD antibodies. Western blot showed the presence of S, M and E proteins, with the E protein present as a dimer. The ß-S13EM-SARS-CoV-2 VLPs formulated with Addavax produced strong antibody responses. T cell depletion studies confirmed that strong CD4+ responses predominated. The ß-S13EM-SARS-CoV-2/Addavax vaccine was completely protective in mice against pulmonary infection with beta SARS-CoV-2 virus. ß-S13EM-SARS-CoV-2 VLPs formulated with MF59 were similarly strongly immunogenic producing high titre anti-S and anti-ß-RBD antibodies. The vaccine was completely protective in mice against pulmonary infection with beta, delta and omicronBA.5 variant viruses. Multiplex RBD-ACE2 binding inhibition assay revealed immune sera from immunised mice produced broad neutralising antibodies (NAb) to Alpha, Delta, Beta, Gamma and Mu variants. At the highest dose of 20µg, the ß-S13EM-SARS-CoV-2 VLPs/MF59 vaccine produced NAb against against Omicron BA.1, BA.2, BA.5 and XBB1.5.
Conclusion: These results demonstrate that the ß-S13EM-SARS-CoV-2 VLP formulated with Addavax or MF59 is strongly immunogenic producing broad antibody and T cell responses and is protective against infection with SARS-CoV-2 variant viruses. The vaccine offers a viable and alternative approach to supplement current COVID-19 variant vaccines.
Proposing adjustments to heat safety thresholds for junior high and high school sports clubs in Japan
Authors: Oyama Takahiro , Honda Yasushi , Fujii Minoru , Nakajima Kenichi , Hijioka Yasuaki
Published: August 2024

With higher temperatures expected in the future due to global climate change, addressing health risks such as heat illness is increasingly important. In Japan, thousands of heat illness cases occur annually during school sports club activities. The risk may vary by sport, location, and region, but how heat safety thresholds (HSTs) should be adjusted to provide effective guidelines remains uncertain. Thus, we conducted a case-crossover study using data of heat illness cases and wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) throughout Japan to evaluate the heat illness risk for the current HSTs and propose adjustments. A significant relationship was found between heat illness incidence and WBGT at the time of the incident, as well as the average WBGT one and two days prior. The risk significantly varies with factors such as club, region, location, year, month, and the average WBGT in summer. Therefore, we recommend lowering the current HSTs by one category (3°C) in the following cases: (1) clubs at high risk (baseball, softball, soccer/futsal, tennis, track and field, kyudo, and other with sustained exercise or thick uniforms); (2) from April to June; (3) in cooler regions (Hokkaido, Tohoku, Hokuriku, or where the average WBGT in summer ≦ 18℃); (4) for outdoor activities; (5) when heat rapidly increases without adequate heat acclimatization.
Investment Cost Analysis in Small Hydropower Plants in Terms of Efficiency and A Case Study in the Euphrates and Tigris Basins
Authors: YUKSEL Ibrahim
Published: August 2024

Flow rate is the basic parameter for calculating the energy capacity and investment costs of small hydropower plants.
Because energy costs are directly related to energy capacity. While the energy capacity increases, the investment cost of the hydropower plant increases also. However, if the energy capacity is high, the energy production will be high and the investment cost will be amortized in a short time.
In this study, small rivers in the Euphrates and Tigris Basins with previously determined hydropower capacities were selected, and the investment costs of small hydroelectric power plants to be designed on these rivers were analyzed.
For this analysis, 10 streams were selected from the Euphrates and Tigris Basins, and only Baskoy and Celebiyan streams have flow observation stations. The flow values of the remaining 8 streams were found by regression analysis using the basin and flow values of Baskoy and Celebiyan streams.
Therefore, cost-benefit analyzes were carried out seperetely for these flows in this study.
Keywords: Small Hydropower, Hydrological Model, Cost Analysis, Efficiency, Euphrates and Tigris Basins
Augmented Reality in Zoos (ZAR): Employing an Innovative Image Enhancement Technique and Localization with Offline Features
Authors: Khan Sajid Ullah , Khan Faheem
Published: August 2024

Pakistan is not getting tourism exposure due to inadequate digitization and technological advancement availability. Peshawar Zoo is one of the emerging tourist places in the whole province of Khyber PakhtoonKhuwa (KPK) and more than five thousand tourists visit it every day. A lack of availability of Localization of sign boards such as guide plates, internet, and technological features are posing challenges to increasing tourist interest and promoting Pakistan's tourism industry. The aim of this research is to design and develop an image de-noising algorithm that will improve the quality of images obtained for database (Vuforia) storage. Moreover, this study design an Augmented Reality (AR) based App that makes the Zoo more informative and interactive. The uses of Localization (descriptions of sign boards in their own language) and offline solutions are the key features added to this AR-app. This system defines a new way of seeing, thinking, and understanding reality. As part of this study, a case study was also conducted to examine the impact of AR on the travel experiences of Peshawar Zoo visitors. The questionnaire was used to gather data, which was later analyzed using the Chi-Square test. The results prove the overall improved experience of the tourists while using AR technology along with Localization and Offline solution. Visitors were asked regarding the recommendation of the ZAR App, and they would like to revisit the Peshawar Zoo. It was found that almost all the visitors liked ZAR App and they would like to revisit Peshawar Zoo and recommended ZAR App to other as well. 91% of visitors were interested in ZAR App and 81% agreed that ZAR has improved their tourism experience. 97% of the visitors said that they will recommend ZAR to potential visitors who expressed a desire and agreed to revisit if it provided an AR-based tourism Experience.
Analysis of risk factors for liver metastasis in patients with gastric cancer and construction of prediction model: A multicenter study
Authors: Yu Heng , Jiang Hang , Lu Xiaofeng , Bai Chunhua , Song Peng , Sun Feng , Ai Shichao , Yin Yi , Hu Qiongyuan , Liu Song , Chen Xin , Du Junfeng , Shen Xiaofei , Guan Wenxian
Published: August 2024

Background: To retrospectively analyze the risk factors of liver metastases in patients with gastric cancer in a single center, and to establish a Nomogram prediction model to predict the occurrence of liver metastases.
Methods: A total of 96 patients with gastric cancer who were also diagnosed with liver metastasis (GCLM) and treated in our center from January 1, 2010 to December 31, 2020 were included. The clinical data of 1095 patients with gastric cancer who were diagnosed without liver metastases (GC) in our hospital from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2017 were retrospectively compared by univariate and multivariate logistic regression. 309 patients diagnosed with gastric cancer in another medical center from January 1, 2014 to December 31, 2018 were introduced as external validation cohorts. Results: Based on the training cohort, multivariate analysis revealed that tumor site (OR=0.55, P =0.046), N stage (OR=4.95, P =0.004), gender (OR=0.04, P =0.001), OPNI (OR=0.95, P =0.041), CEA (OR=1.01, P =0.018), CA724 (OR=1.01, P =0.006), CA242 (OR=1.01, P =0.006), WBC (OR=1.13, P =0.024), Hb (OR=0.98, P < 0.001) were independent risk factors for liver metastasis in patients with gastric cancer, and Nomogram was established based on this analysis (C-statistics=0.911, 95%CI: 0.880-0.958), and the C-statistics of the external validation cohorts achieved 0.926. ROC analysis and decision curve analysis (DCA) revealed that the nomogram provided superior diagnostic value than single variety.
Conclusions: By innovatively introducing a new tumor location classification method, systemic inflammatory response indicators such as NLR and PLR, and nutritional index OPNI, the risk factors of gastric cancer liver metastasis were determined and a predictive Nomogram model was established, which can provide clinical prediction for patients with gastric cancer liver metastasis.
The Impact of COVID-19 on College Students' Mental Health
Authors: Khan Raihan , Jehi Tony , Zaman Sojib , Peachey Andrew
Published: August 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc in every aspect of human life including college students' physical and meatal health condition. The aim of this study was to assess the fear of COVID-19, anxiety, and stress among Shenandoah Valley college students, part of the Great Appalachian. An online survey was conducted among undergraduate and graduate level college students in a large US public university, and a total of 680 students completed it. The mean age was 22.14 ± 5.48 years. The majority were White (81.9%), and female (80.4%) undergraduate (78.0%) students. Approximately 41% of them were enrolled in health-related majors (41.4%). Female students had significantly higher anxiety, depression, and fear of contracting COVID-19 than male students. Undergraduate students had significantly higher depression than graduate students. Students' perceptions of university' support had a negative relationship with their anxiety, depression and fear of COVID-19. While the COVID-19 pandemic is almost over, the higher education system and policymakers should work together to identify areas to improve student support and better communication strategies.
Enhanced Diagnosis of Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (TBRFV) Infections Through CRISPR-Cas12 and CRISPR-Cas9 Technologies
Authors: Besati Masoud , Safarnejad Mohammad Reza , Aliahmadi Atousa , Farzaneh Mohsen , Rafati Hasan
Published: August 2024

Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus (ToBRFV), a newly identified Tobamovirus that exclusively targets tomato plants, is causing significant damage to agricultural crops worldwide. It was originally discovered in greenhouse tomatoes in Jordan in 2015, and it is now a global danger to tomato and pepper harvests. ToBRFV is a highly contagious virus that is stable and rapidly spreads by mechanical methods and seeds. As a result, it may spread both locally and over large distances, and it is now recognized as a pandemic in plants and corpse life. This study investigates the effectiveness of a single-step CRISPR-Cas12a in conjugation with reverse transcription-recombinase polymerase amplification (RT-RPA) for detection of ToBRFV in samples collected from the field. In this study, we employed the CRISPR-Cas12a system for the detection of viral DNA amplicons generated through RT-RPA. Moreover, we show that different ToBRFV signals sensed by the CRISPR complexes may be processed by designed DNA logic circuits. All things considered, the use of CRISPR-Cas9 R-loop for the molecular beacon opening (COLUMBO) platform for multiplexed detection in a single tube, enhances the capabilities of already available CRISPR-based techniques, and shows promise for use in biocomputing and diagnosis. Our innovative approach successfully identified the presence of ToBRFV, in tomato plants. Furthermore, the detection methodology refined by integrating lateral flow strips with a fluorimetry assay, enabling a visual readout. This modification circumvents the costly and labor-intensive RNA purification phase, streamlining the diagnostic process. These methods have the potential to be useful for field-deployable applications since they enable viral diagnoses to be completed within 30 minutes of leaf harvesting. The study proved that the combination of RT-RPA amplification and single-step CRISPR-Cas12a and CRISPR-Cas9 can offer a precise, sensitive, and targeted method for on-site detection of ToBRFV.
Relationships between the platelet/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio and anemia among adults in the USA: An NHANES analysis
Authors: Xiao Tingfeng , Ni Junjie , Pang Lingling
Published: August 2024

Aims
The platelet/high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (PHR) has been proposed as a viable biomarker of disease, but its relationship with the prevalence of anemia has yet to be established. This study was thus devised to examine the relationships between PHR and anemia.
Methods
Data from the 2007–2020 NHENES cycles were used to conduct this study, including any non-pregnant subjects 18 + years of age for whom anemia and PHR-related data were provided. Weighted multivariate logistic regression and subgroup analyses were conducted to clarify the degree to which there is an independent relationship between PHR and anemia.
Results
This study included 6048 individuals of whom 7.33% had anemia with a mean PHR of 18.69 ± 0.18. Anemia prevalence increased with higher PHR tertiles. Using a fully adjusted model, subjects in the highest PHR tertile presented with a 59% (OR: 1.53, 95%CI: 1.06–2.38, P = 0.02) higher risk of anemia as compared to those in the lowest tertile. In two-piece-wise regression analyses, a PHR breakpoint of 14.53 was computed, with a positive relationship being more apparent at PHR values at or above 14.53 (OR = 1.05, 95%CI: 1.03–1.07, P < 0.0001). Below this threshold, this correlation was no longer evident (P = 0.07). Subgroup and interaction analyses confirmed that PHR and anemia prevalence were consistently related across population settings.
Conclusions
A positive correlation was noted between higher PHR and anemia, suggesting that this index can be employed in clinical settings as an indicator for assessing the prevalence of anemia.
Opening the Black Box: predicting the trainability of deep neural networks with reconstruction entropy
Authors: Erdmenger Johanna , Thurn Yanick , Jefferson Ro
Published: August 2024

An important challenge in machine learning is to predict the initial conditions under which a given neural network will be trainable. We present a method for predicting the trainable regime in parameter space for deep feedforward neural networks, based on reconstructing the input from subsequent activation layers via a cascade of single-layer auxiliary networks. For both MNIST and CIFAR10, we show that a single epoch of training of the shallow cascade networks is sufficient to predict the trainability of the deep feedforward network, thereby providing a significant reduction in overall training time. We achieve this by computing the relative entropy between reconstructed images and the original inputs, and show that this probe of information loss is sensitive to the phase behaviour of the network. Moreover, our approach illustrates the network's decision making process by displaying the changes performed on the input data at each layer. Our results provide a concrete link between the flow of information and the trainability of deep neural networks, further explaining the role of criticality in these systems.
Novel miniaturized silicon-based capacitive six-axis force/torque sensor with large range, high sensitivity, and low crosstalk
Authors: Han Xiangguang , Tan Renjie , Wu Daixuan , Xia Yong , Huang Linya , Gao Wendi , Jia Chen , Yang Ping , Lin Qijing , Ding Shujiang , Wang Chenying , Zhao Libo
Published: August 2024

Miniaturized six-axis force/torque sensors have potential applications in robotic tactile sensing, minimally invasive surgery, and other narrow operating spaces, where currently available commercial sensors cannot meet the requirements because of their large size. In this study, a silicon-based capacitive six-axis force/torque sensing chip with a small size of 9.3 × 9.3 × 0.98 mm was designed, fabricated, and tested. A sandwich decoupling structure with a symmetrical layered arrangement of S-shaped beams, comb capacitors, and parallel capacitors was employed. A decoupling theory considering eccentricity and nonlinear effects was derived to realize low axial crosstalk. The proposed S-shaped beams achieved a large measurement range through stress optimization. The results of a coupled multiphysics field finite-element simulation agreed well with those of theoretical analyses. The test results show that the proposed sensing chip can detect six-axis force/torque separately, with almost all crosstalk errors less than 6%FS. Its force and torque measurement ranges can reach as much as 2.5 N and 12.5 N·mm, respectively. The sensing chip also has high sensitivities of 0.52 pF/N and 0.27 pF/(N·mm) for force and torque detection, respectively.
Combined with bioinformatics and machine learning, the diagnostic model, Immunological features and subtypes of stage IV endometriosis with infertility were analyzed
Authors: Lin Yong , Long Yan , He Jin , Yi Qinqin , Wu Jiao
Published: August 2024

Many studies have shown that endometriosis can lead to infertility in women of reproductive age, but the mechanism is unknown. Our study aims to explore the pathogenesis of stage IV endometriosis with infertility and the role of characteristic genes in this condition. Methods Gene expression profiles were obtained from the GSE120103 dataset retrieved from the GEO database. Weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) was used to identify key modules. Subsequently, minimum absolute contraction, selection operator (LASSO), and random forest machine learning algorithms were employed to screen the characteristic genes of stage IV endometriosis complicated with infertility. The ROC curve and diagnostic model were generated to evaluate the diagnostic efficacy. CIBERSORT was utilized to estimate immune cell infiltration and quantify immune checkpoints. Additionally, we constructed the regulatory network of miRNA and transcription factors.GSEA was utilized to explore the signaling pathways associated with characteristic genes, and potential small molecule compounds were identified through screening the CTD database. Samples from individuals with infertility in stage IV endometriosis were categorized using the consensus clustering method, followed by an examination of the expression and immunological features of different subtypes. Results We identified five characteristic genes (CDY2A, KRT6B, SLC2A2, SRY, MYH7) that predict infertility in stage IV endometriosis. When compared to women of childbearing age with stage IV endometriosis, the immunological features of stage IV endometriosis combined with infertility show significant differences, which are clearly linked to the characteristic genes. Patients can benefit from a gene-based characteristic nomogram. Our study reveals that multiple signaling pathways are strongly associated with infertility in stage IV endometriosis. Furthermore, several small molecule compounds were predicted based on the characteristic genes, and relevant regulatory networks of miRNA and TF were constructed. Stage IV endometriosis combined with infertility is categorized into three subtypes, each showing significantly different immunological characteristics of the characteristic genes. Conclusion This study enhances our understanding of the pathogenesis and immune mechanisms of stage IV endometriosis with infertility. It identifies effective characteristic genes and subtypes, offering valuable insights for treatment. Nevertheless, additional prospective studies and experiments are necessary to validate our findings.
Phenylalanine is the key indicator for distinguishing the stroke subtypes of AIS and ICH
Authors: Qi Ao , Shen Jing , Mei Shuangxi , Zhang Junjie , Xu Simin , Chen Yusen , Cai Chun
Published: August 2024

Stroke is a complex neurological disease that involves a sudden abnormality in brain function, including acute ischemic stroke (AIS) and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). The clinical symptoms of them are similar, but the treatment strategies are completely opposite, and there is no clear biomarker to distinguish them for clinical use. Our purpose is to investigate the plasma metabolites and find out potential biomarkers that can discriminate ICH from AIS. Herein, we used non-targeted metabolomics analysis by GC/MS to investigate the changes in metabolites in plasma samples from 63 AIS patients, 35 ICH patients and 65 healthy people. More than 50 metabolites were analyzed, then the Orthogonal partial least squares discrimination analysis (OPLS-DA) model and Support Vector Machine algorithm were used to analyze these metabolites. The results showed that the area under curve of L-phenylalanine is as high as 0.961 and 93.86% of samples could be correctly diagnosed with 88.89% sensitivity and 100% specificity. The content of phenylalanine in the plasma of AIS patients was significantly higher than that of ICH patients and healthy people, and there was no difference in the content of phenylalanine between ICH patients and healthy people. Therefore , phenyalanine may be a potential biomarker for differentiating AIS from ICH
Unintended Pregnancy and Induced Abortion in Sierra Leone: Abortion Incidence Complications Method-Based Estimates
Authors: Ushie Boniface Ayanbekongshie , Giorgio Margaret , Juma Kenneth , Kamara Mohamed Koblo , Ouedraogo Ramatou , Francis Moses , Bankole Akinrinola
Published: August 2024

Background
Unsafe abortions remain a significant contributor to the high maternal morbidity and mortality in Sierra Leone. The country has among the highest maternal mortalities worldwide. However, little is known about the incidence of induced abortion and unintended pregnancy in the country.
Methods
We used the Abortion Incidence Complications Method to create nationally representative estimates of the incidence of abortion and unintended pregnancy in Sierra Leone in 2021. First, we estimated the total number of post-abortion care cases resulting from induced abortions using a nationally representative sample of health facilities (n = 291). Next, we estimated the proportion of all induced abortions in the country that would result in women receiving post-abortion care using data from a survey conducted among a purposive sample of experts knowledgeable about abortion in Sierra Leone. The national estimate of induced abortion is the product of the estimated number of post-abortion care cases and the multiplier generated from the proportion of all induced abortions that would result in health facility care. The estimate of induced abortion and the national estimate of unintended births based on Demographic Health Survey data were used to estimate the incidence of unintended pregnancy in 2021.
Results
In 2021, 37,262 patients were treated for post-abortion complications in Sierra Leone, of which we estimated 27,467 were due to induced abortions. Approximately 91,494 induced abortions (uncertainty interval (UI): 41,489–141,500) occurred in Sierra Leone in the same year, translating to a national induced abortion rate of 44.2 (UI: 20.1–68.4) per 1,000 women aged 15–49 and with significant regional variations. Of all pregnancies in 2021, 38% were unintended. This corresponds to an unintended pregnancy rate of 70 per 1,000; we estimate that 63% of unintended pregnancies ended in induced abortions.
Conclusions
This is the first study to report on the national incidence estimates of induced abortion and unintended pregnancy in Sierra Leone. Findings demonstrate that both are prevalent in the country. Findings offer insights that could be used to strengthen efforts towards reducing unsafe abortions, improving access to quality comprehensive abortion care and family planning services, and informing advocacy for abortion legal reforms in Sierra Leone.
WTAP-mediated m6A methylation of PHF19 facilitates cell cycle progression by remodeling the accessible chromatin landscape in t(8;21) AML
Authors: Gao Xiao-Ning , Li Yu-Qing , Liu Di , Wang Lili , Shao Yang-Liu , Zhou Hui-Sheng , Hu Ya-Lei , Min Kai-Li , Gao Chun-ji , Liu Daihong , Zhou Jie , Lin Ji
Published: August 2024

Wilms' tumor 1-associated protein (WTAP) is a key N6-methyladenosine (m6A) methyltransferase that is upregulated in t(8;21) acute myeloid leukemia (AML) under hypoxia inducible factor 1α-mediated transcriptional activation, promoting leukemogenesis through transcriptome-wide m6A modifications. However, the specific substrates and intrinsic regulatory mechanisms of WTAP are not well understood. Here, we provide evidence that PHD finger protein 19 (PHF19) overexpression is regulated by WTAP-mediated m6A modification and promotes cell cycle progression by altering chromatin accessibility. At the same time, high expression of PHF19 and WTAP in t(8;21) AML patients indicates a worse prognosis. Furthermore, inhibition of PHF19 expression significantly suppresses the growth of t(8;21) AML cells in both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, WTAP enhances the stability of PHF19 mRNA by binding to m6A sites in the 3'-untranslated region, thereby upregulating PHF19 expression. Conversely, WTAP suppression reduces m6A modification levels on the PHF19 transcript, leading to increased instability. Knockdown of PHF19 precipitates loss of H3K27 trimethylation and enhanced chromatin accessibility, ultimately resulting in upregulated expression of genes involved in the cell cycle and DNA damage checkpoints. Therefore, WTAP/m6A-dependent PHF19 upregulation accelerates leukemia progression by coordinating m6A modification and histone methylation, establishing its status as a novel therapeutic target for t(8;21) AML.
Effects of a Landscape Gradient on the Diversity of Odonates in the Legalamazonia Zone of the Brazilian State of Maranhão
Authors: Barbosa-Santos Francisco Maciel , Juen Leandro , Cajaiba Reinaldo Lucas , De Sousa Jose Roberto Pereira
Published: August 2024

The various ecosystems of the Amazon biome play a vital role in the maintenance of biodiversity, as well as providing important ecosystem services at local and global levels. Small-bodied generalists include a number of important groups, such as the insects of the order Odonata. Given their sensitivity to environmental alterations, odonates are also valuable bioindicators of environmental quality. In this context, the present study evaluated the distribution of the diversity of adult odonates in the Legal Amazonia zone of the Brazilian state of Maranhão, to verify which environmental variables are the most important drivers of the structure of the local odonate communities. To test these predictions, we sampled 27 streams along a landscape gradient located in the hydrographic basin of the Pindaré River in the Legal Amazonia zone of the Brazilian state of Maranhão. The results of the study indicated that alterations in the environment are reflected in the odonate diversity recorded at each site, with the assemblages of degraded environments having a predominance of more generalist species. However, some of these species are threatened by the loss of habitats, primarily denser vegetation. However, such species are threatened by habitat loss, particularly dense vegetation. Despite this, the discovery of Erythrodiplax unimaculata in Maranhão highlights ongoing biodiversity revelations. The study underscores the urgent need for continuous monitoring to mitigate biodiversity loss in the face of widespread environmental disturbances in the region.