bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential of Palm Oil Fuel Ash, Garnet Waste and Sawdust in Modified Asphalt Binder and Their Correlation
Authors: Sani Wan Noor Hin Mior , Jaya Ramadhansyah Putra , Masri Khairil Azman , Yaacob Haryati , Al-Saffar Zaid Hazim
Published: July 2024

Recently, the volume and growth of industrial as well as agricultural waste have caused environmental pollution. However, this issue can be mitigated through recycling and reutilization of such waste products. Therefore, this paper evaluated the potential of Palm Oil Fuel Ash (POFA), garnet waste, and sawdust as sustainable modified asphalt binders and mixtures as a substitute strategy to encourage waste recycling in road pavement construction. POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust were blended with asphalt grade 60/70 with varied amounts of 0% (control), 3%, 6%, and 9%. Moreover, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), X-Ray Fluorescence (XRF), as well as X-Ray Diffraction (XRD) were utilized to analyze the microstructures of raw waste materials. The physical characteristics with regard to the modified asphalt binder were determined by employing softening point and penetration tests. Consequently, the modified asphalt mixture was assessed using the Marshall stability test. Specifically, adding 6% POFA, 3% garnet waste, and 3% sawdust performs best in stability as a modified asphalt mixture. The correlation of stability, flow, bulk density, and stiffness for POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust modified asphalt mixture was significant, with a strong Coefficient of Determination (R2) for all Marshall stability parameters. According to this study’s results, the correlation of POFA, garnet waste, and sawdust content may improve the performance and engineering characteristics with respect to modified asphalt binder and mixture.
Genetic and Pathway Alterations of Prostate Cancer: In Localized and Metastatic Prostate Cancer
Authors: Yoon Chang Eil , Kang San , Rhew Seung ah , Kwon Hyeok Jae , Shin Dongho , Moon Hyong Woo , Kim Mee Young , Lee Ji Youl
Published: July 2024

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to identify genetic mutations in patients with localized prostate cancer and metastatic prostate cancer and analyze the association between these genes and each patient's clinical course.
Materials and Methods: We analyzed 106 patients diagnosed with prostate cancer. Tissue specimens were obtained from prostate biopsy or surgical excision samples and were analyzed by next-generation sequencing at Seoul St. Mary's Hospital between July 1, 2021, and May 31, 2023. We retrospectively evaluated baseline characteristics, including the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) score, tumor, node, metastasis (TNM) staging, Gleason score (GS), and the clinical course, as well as additional treatment and biochemical recurrence (BCR).
Results: Of the patients, 65 had localized prostate cancer, and 41 had metastatic prostate cancer. Among baseline characteristics, Significant differences were observed in PSA levels (p = 0.006), T stage distribution (p < 0.001), GS (p < 0.001), and treatment modalities between the two groups. Genetic alterations included single-nucleotide variations (SNVs), copy number variations (CNVs), and structural variations. SNVs in genes like KMT2C, KMT2D, SPOP, and CNVs such as 8p loss and 6q loss were prevalent. Gene fusions like TMPRSS2-ERG and KMT2C-BAGE2 were also observed. Factors such as T stage, GS, and certain genetic mutations were found to be strong predictors in multivariate analysis. Specifically, T stage (p < 0.001), GS (p = 0.048), PIK3CA (p = 0.013), LRP6 (p = 0.012), LRRK2 (p = 0.016), and APOBEC3B deletion (p < 0.001) were confirmed as significant predictors for metastatic prostate cancer while BRCA2 (p < 0.001), BCL6 (p < 0.001), and CHEK2 (p = 0.012) were significant predictors for BCR.
Conclusion: The genetic analysis of prostate cancer revealed that mutations like PIK3CA, LRP6, LRRK2, and BRCA2 were associated with metastasis and BCR. Prognosis can be predicted through genetic analysis.
Damage mechanism of dissolved manganese ions from cathode to silicon anode in lithium ion batteries
Authors: Zeng Yingying , Yi Xiuguang , chen haihui , Liu Limin
Published: July 2024

It is still unknown how dissolved manganese ions affect the silicon anode's electrochemical performance in the lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). In this study, the damage mechanism of Mn2+ to silicon electrode in LIBs was studied by adding Mn2+ into electrolyte system to simulate the electrochemical environment.Through the comparison between full cell and half cell, the mechanism of the capacity fading of silicon electrode is revealed. In order to compare the amount of SEI growth of silicon anode during cycling, the heat flux of SEi was analyzed by DSC. Experiments shows that Mn2+ could make SEI more fragile, more easily break, and then accelerates the SEI thickening. So Mn2 + could reduce the coulomb efficiency and electrochemical capacity of the silicon-based electrode. The galvanostatic cycle current is 300 mA.g− 1. The half cell's coulomb efficiency exceeds 97%, whereas the whole cell's coulomb efficiency is only 32% after 100 cycles. In addition to the damage of the Mn2+ to silicon anode, the depletion of active lithium ion source in full cell is also an important reason for the rapid decline of electrochemical capacity.
Molecular Phenotyping of Patients with Sepsis and Kidney Injury and Differential Response to Fluid Resuscitation
Authors: Kiernan Elizabeth , Zelnick Leila R. , Khader Ayesha , Coston Taylor D. , Bailey Zoie A. , Speckmaier Sarah , Lo Jordan , Sathe Neha , Kestenbaum Bryan R. , Himmelfarb Jonathan , Johnson Nicholas , Shapiro Nathan , Douglas Ivor S. , Hough Catherine , Bhatraju Pavan
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Previous work has identified two AKI sub-phenotypes (SP1 and SP2) characterized by differences in inflammation and endothelial dysfunction. Here we identify these sub-phenotypes using biospecimens collected in the emergency department and test for differential response to restrictive versus liberal fluid strategy in sepsis-induced hypotension in the CLOVERS trial.
Methods
We applied a previously validated 3-biomarker model using plasma angiopietin-1 and 2, and soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor-1 to classify sub-phenotypes in patients with kidney dysfunction (AKI or end-stage kidney disease [ESKD]). We also compared a de novo latent class analysis (LCA) to the 3-biomarker based sub-phenotypes. Kaplan-Meier estimates were used to test for differences in outcomes and sub-phenotype by treatment interaction.
Results
Among 1289 patients, 846 had kidney dysfunction on enrollment and the 3-variable prediction model identified 605 as SP1 and 241 as SP2. The optimal LCA model identified two sub-phenotypes with high correlation with the 3-biomarker model (Cohen’s Kappa 0.8). The risk of 28 and 90-day mortality was greater in SP2 relative to SP1 independent of AKI stage and SOFA scores. Patients with SP2, characterized by more severe endothelial injury and inflammation, had a reduction in 28-day mortality with a restrictive fluid strategy versus a liberal fluid strategy (26% vs 41%), while patients with SP1 had no difference in 28-day mortality (10% vs 11%) (p-value-for-interaction = 0.03).
Conclusion
Sub-phenotypes can be identified in the emergency department that respond differently to fluid strategy in sepsis. Identification of these sub-phenotypes could inform a precision-guided therapeutic approach for patients with sepsis-induced hypotension and kidney injury.
Feasibility assessment of real-time surface-guided intrafraction radiotherapy for prostate cancer without body immobilization
Authors: Liu Xiaochao , Li Jia , Gao Hongxiang
Published: July 2024

Purpose
This study will investigate the feasibility of applying OSMS real-time surface guidance during radiotherapy for prostate cancer without body immobilization.
Methods
A retrospective analysis of data from 165 fractions of real-time surface-guided radiotherapy for five prostate cancer patients without body immobilization was conducted. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) was used before radiotherapy to assess and correct the patients’ setup errors in 6 degrees of freedom (6-DOF). The OSMS gating system was utilized to monitor the real-time 6-DOF position motion average errors during radiotherapy, with corresponding average values recorded. Post-radiotherapy a verification cone-beam computed tomography (VCBCT) of the body position was performed. Paired sample t-tests were conducted on the OSMS average errors and VCBCT average errors to identify discrepancies.
Results
The CBCT setup errors before radiotherapy were: Lateral (1.78 ± 1.15) mm, Longitudinal (3.24 ± 1.37) mm, Vertical (2.72 ± 1.49) mm, Yaw (0.56 ± 0.43)°, Roll (0.31 ± 0.32)°, and Pitch (0.32 ± 0.39)°. During radiotherapy, OSMS monitoring shows that the average error of real-time position motion is: Lateral (0.52 ± 0.53) mm, Longitudinal (0.76 ± 0.49) mm, Vertical (1.02 ± 0.71) mm, Yaw (0.27 ± 0.24)°, Roll (0.31 ± 0.32)°, and Pitch (0.58 ± 0.43)°. Post-radiotherapy, VCBCT average errors were: Lateral (0.56 ± 0.57) mm, Longitudinal (0.82 ± 0.54) mm, Vertical (1.01 ± 0.58) mm, Yaw (0.27 ± 0.19)°, Roll (0.32 ± 0.36)°, and Pitch (0.60 ± 0.45)°. The real-time position motion average errors did not significantly differ from the verification average errors (P > 0.05).
Conclusions
The implementation of OSMS offers a simple and effective method for real-time motion management during radiotherapy for prostate cancer patients without body immobilization.
Analytical approach for short-term pile setup in clay considering destructuration
Authors: liu kang , Chen JinJian , kang Jingwen
Published: July 2024

This paper presents a novel analytical framework to predict short-term pile setup in natural structure clay, considering the influence of soil destructuration in installation and consolidation. Based on the cavity expansion method, a simulation of pile installation has been conducted, with an analytical solution formulated for cavity expansion under undrained conditions to effectively capture soil destructuration. The flow rate in the unit cell is determined by Darcy's law based on the soil mass volume change, leading to the consolidation equation. which is obtained in a fully analytical form for excess pore pressure dissipation. The utilization of the average compression curve aimed to depict a partially disturbed state, and permeability coefficient linearly distributed radially as a result of the effects of installation. Based on the rewritten effective stress method (\(\beta\) method), which involves the time-dependent factor, the time-dependent pile bearing capacity can be determined, by considering the relaxation and thixotropic effects through introducing parameters. Parametric analyses and discussion on the influence of soil destructuration. Finally, the analytical framework is validated through a comprehensive pile field test conducted at St-Alban. The close alignment between the analytical findings and the empirical data showcases the ability of the proposed framework to reasonably forecast short-term pile behavior.
Identification of novel neuroprotectants against vincristine-induced neurotoxicity in iPSC-derived neurons
Authors: Petrova Veselina , Snavely Andrew R , Splaine Jennifer , Zhen Shannon , Singh Bhagat , Pandey Roshan , Chen Kuchuan , Cheng Anya , Hermawan Crystal , Barrett Lee B , Smith Jennifer A. , Woolf Clifford
Published: July 2024

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a disabling side effect of cancer chemotherapy that can often limit treatment options for cancer patients or have life-long neurodegenerative consequences that reduce the patient’s quality of life. CIPN is caused by the detrimental actions of various chemotherapeutic agents on peripheral axons. Currently, there are no approved preventative measures or treatment options for CIPN, highlighting the need for the discovery of novel therapeutics and improving our understanding of disease mechanisms. In this study, we utilized human-induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC)-derived motor neurons as a platform to mimic axonal damage after treatment with vincristine, a chemotherapeutic used for the treatment of breast cancers, osteosarcomas, and leukemia. We screened a total of 1902 small molecules for neuroprotective properties in rescuing vincristine-induced axon growth deficits. From our primary screen, we identified 38 hit compounds that were subjected to secondary dose response screens. Six compounds showed favorable pharmacological profiles – AZD7762, A-674563, Blebbistatin, Glesatinib, KW-2449, and Pelitinib, all novel neuroprotectants against vincristine toxicity to neurons. In addition, four of these six compounds also showed efficacy against vincristine-induced growth arrest in human iPSC-derived sensory neurons. In this study, we utilized high-throughput screening of a large library of compounds in a therapeutically relevant assay. We identified several novel compounds that are efficacious in protecting different neuronal subtypes from the toxicity induced by a common chemotherapeutic agent, vincristine which could have therapeutic potential in the clinic.
Peripheral Blood Biomarkers Predicting the Efficacy of Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors in Non-small Cell Lung Cancer: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Yan Jinshan , Li Xin , Xiao Hong , Xu Lu , Wang Pan , Cai Lutong , Liu Ruotong , Li Heming , Zhao Mingfang
Published: July 2024

Introduction:
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) leads to substantial challenges in cancer treatment owing to its diverse histological and molecular characteristics. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have revolutionized the management of NSCLC. Nevertheless, there exist limitations in utilizing biomarkers, like PD-L1 expression for predicting the efficacy of ICIs, necessitating novel biomarkers.
Methods
We investigated the relationship between peripheral blood T cell subsets, cytokines, and efficacy of ICIs in patients who received ICIs as their first-line treatment for pathologically confirmed locally advanced or metastatic NSCLCs. Propensity score matching (PSM) was employed to match individuals between the response and non-response groups. Subsequently, peripheral blood T lymphocyte profiles and cytokine subsets were measured using flow cytometry. Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used for intergroup analysis before, after, and during treatment. Log-rank regression and Cox regression models were used to analyze survival and conduct multivariate analysis, respectively.
Results
Between July 1, 2021, and December 31, 2023, there were 470 patients with clinical stage IIIB to IV NSCLC. After applying the inclusion criteria, a post-propensity score-matching analysis was performed on 102 patients. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 14.30 months. These subsets included activated CD4+ T cells (HLA-DR+)/CD4% (P = 0.0170), memory CD8+ T cells/CD8% (P = 0.0115), activated CD8+ T cells (CD38+)/CD8% (P = 0.0020), and activated CD8+ T cells (HLA-DR+)/CD8% (P < 0.0001). Changes in cytokine levels before and after treatment with ICIs indicated that IL-6 levels showed a downward trend in the responder group. Additionally, our analysis revealed that an increased ratio of activated CD8+ T cells (CD38+)/CD8% (average PFS: 22.207m vs. 15.474m) and a decreased ratio of activated CD8 + T cells (HLA-DR+)/CD8% after treatment (mean PFS: 17.729m vs. 25.662m) are associated with longer PFS. Multivariate analysis unveiled that alterations in the abundance of activated CD8+ T cells were independent prognostic factors for PFS in patients with advanced NSCLC.
Conclusions
This study emphasizes the significance of peripheral blood biomarkers in predicting the efficacy of ICIs in NSCLC. Activated CD8+T cells (CD38+) represent a promising biomarker for response to ICIs, providing insights into personalized treatment strategies. Further prospective studies are warranted to validate findings and improve the outcome of NSCLC.
Patient satisfaction survey in a public hospital: Remera Rukoma District Hospital, Rwanda, 2023
Authors: SEBERA Emile , Celestin HAGENIMANA , TWAGIRUMUKIZA Emile
Published: July 2024

Background: While high patient satisfaction is linked to better healthcare outcomes like lower readmission rates and shorter stays, its direct impact on clinical results is debated. However, gathering patient satisfaction data offers valuable insights for hospitals. It helps identify areas for improvement in patient experience with staff, potentially leading to better clinical outcomes and empowers hospitals to make data-driven decisions for resource allocation. Since Remera Rukoma Hospital (RRH) lacks data on patient satisfaction and specific concerns, therefore, this study aimed to assess patient satisfaction level and identify areas for improvement in service delivery at RRH.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted at RRH to assess patient satisfaction. A mixed qualitative and quantitative approach was used, involving surveys and interviews with 164 inpatients and 220 outpatients. Fisher formula was used to get 384 sample. Data collection occurred between September and November 2023. Response for satisfactions was estimated as follow: Very Satisfied, (>70%), Satisfied (=>50-69.9%), Not satisfied (=<49.9%). SPSS Version 25 was used in data analysis.
Result: The findings showed that 43.06% and 56.96 are male and female respectively combining both in and out patients. It was found that 35.9 of out patients are dissatisfied with cashiers’ services, 46.9% among out patient dissatisfied with waiting time at pharmacy. However, 74.4% among inpatient were satisfied with admission process, and 69,5% of inpatient didn’t receive timely feedback on test results. On overall 52.55% of the participant were highly satisfied, 29%satisfied, and 18% were not satisfied.
Conclusion: While Remera Rukoma Hospital received positive feedback overall, key areas need improvement. Communication gaps, lengthy wait times at pharmacy and cashier, medication stock-outs, and discharge delays require immediate attention. Addressing these issues through clearer communication, streamlined processes, better inventory management, and efficient discharge procedures is crucial to enhance patient experience and maintain the hospital's quality reputation.
Consideration for the appropriate use of antimicrobials in long-term care wards
Authors: Funato Michinori , Yasuda Kunihiko
Published: July 2024

Background
Antimicrobials need to be prescribed appropriately and used optimally to minimize the propagation of multidrug-resistant pathogens. Few studies have explored the appropriate use of antimicrobials in long-term care wards for patients with advanced neuromuscular disorders or severe motor and intellectual disabilities. This study aimed to investigate the pathological conditions requiring antimicrobials in long-term care wards based on antimicrobial stewardship guidelines.
Methods
We retrospectively collected data from the electronic medical records of patients with advanced neuromuscular disorders or severe motor and intellectual disabilities who were administered intravenous (IV) medications between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2020. We compared the usual medical treatment between January 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019 (usual treatment group) and treatment based on the principles of antimicrobial stewardship between July 1, 2019, and December 31, 2020 (optimal treatment group).
Results
We analyzed data from 65 patients (23 women [35.4%] and 42 men [64.6%]) with a median age of 38 (range, 8–62) years, and a median hospitalization period of 12 years (range, 1 month to 50 years) at the start of the study. A total of 205 IV infusion treatments were administered, 85 (41.5%) in the usual treatment group and 120 (58.5%) in the optimal treatment group, of which 32 (37.2%) and 28 (23.3%) involved antimicrobial treatment, respectively (p = 0.026). A significant difference was observed in the site of infection and the diagnosis of aspiration and respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia (p = 0.004). Moreover, we determined the relevance of peak C-reactive protein (CRP) levels during the treatment.
Conclusion
Evaluating the requirement for antibiotics by combining patient conditions and CRP levels may help to reduce the inappropriate use of antimicrobials in long-term care wards.
Asymmetrical glymphatic dysfunction in patients with Long Covid associated neurocognitive impairment- Correlation with BBB disruption
Authors: Chaganti Joga R , Talekar Tanush K , Brew Bruce James
Published: July 2024

Background and Purpose
The glymphatic system, a waste clearance pathway, has been implicated in several neurological conditions associated with neuroinflammation. COVID-19 associated neurocognitive impairment, part of the post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), is strongly associated with neuroinflammation and disrupted blood-brain barrier (BBB). Several studies have implicated a synergistic interaction between the glymphatic system dysfunction and BBB disruption. In this proof-of-concept study, we investigated the relationship of the diffusion along the perivascular spaces DTI (DTI-ALPS) and increased capillary permeability metric- K trans derived from DCE perfusion in patients with PASC.
Materials and Methods
14 subjects with PASC who had persisting symptoms of anosmia, ageusia, fatigue, and cognitive impairment (CI) and ten healthy age and sex matched controls were recruited. All PASC subjects underwent routine and advanced MR imaging early at two time points, (3 months +/- 2 weeks) referred as Time Point 1 (TP-1) and 10 repeated the MRI scan 12 months (+/- 2 weeks) after referred as Time Point 2 (TP-2), while the controls had MR imaging done only at TP-1. All had elaborate neurocognitive assessment. In the final analysis we included those who had DTI study at both time points (n-10). MR imaging included DCE perfusion and DTI in addition to anatomical imaging.
Statistical analysis
Given the small size of the sample and nonnormality of data in the descriptive analyses, nonparametric analyses were used for group comparisons. A two-sample Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to show the differences in DTI-ALPS between the patients and controls in the predefined ROI. Spearman’s correlation coefficient (rho) was used to assess the correlation between K-trans and DTI-ALPS index.
Results
There was significant reduction in DTI-ALPS index between the patients and controls in the left hemisphere (z=2.04, p < 0.04). However, there was no significant change over time in the index. There was a strong inverse correlation between the central white matter K trans and DTI-ALPS index (rho=0.66, p< 0.03).
Conclusion
Our study suggests that BBB disruption and disordered glymphatic drainage may contribute to neuroaxonal injury in patients with PASC, and DTI-ALPS index could serve as a powerful non-invasive biomarker.
Facile synthesis of copper sulfide loaded mesoporous organosilica nanospheres with a triple-shelled hollow structure
Authors: Shi Xuzhi , Yu Yifeng , Yu Ruifa , Wang Ning , Lu Wei , Han Xiaolin , Sun Tangyao , Li Pengcheng , Su Xiaodan , Teng Zhaogang , Liu Ying
Published: July 2024

Herein, copper sulfide loaded mesoporous organosilica nanospheres with a triple-shelled hollow structure (CuS/tHMONs) are successfully synthesized. The resulting CuS/tHMONs nanospheres exhibit a uniform diameter of 340 nm, mesoporous channels with a diameter of 3.8 nm, large pore volume, and triply separated cavities. High-angle annular dark-field scanning electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) images confirm the presence of a high content of CuS nanoparticles within the CuS/tHMONs composite nanospheres. Moreover, the CuS/tHMONs nanospheres demonstrate high photothermal conversion efficiency and excellent photothermal stability. In vitro experiments reveal excellent biocompatibility of the CuS/tHMON nanospheres, and cytotoxic assays demonstrate their effectiveness in killing cancer cells through photothermal therapy.
Influence of brain metastases on the classification, treatment, and outcome of patients with extracranial oligometastasis: A single-center cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Christ Sebastian M. , Thiel Gabriel W. , Heesen Philip , Mayinger Michael , Willmann Jonas , Ahmadsei Maiwand , Muehlematter Urs J. , Maurer Alexander , Buchner Josef A. , Peeken Jan C. , Rahman Rifaquat , Aizer Ayal , Rhun Emilie Le , Andratschke Nicolaus , Weller Michael , Huellner Martin , Guckenberger Matthias
Published: July 2024

Background and introduction
Increasing evidence suggests that a subgroup of patients with oligometastatic cancer might achieve a prolonged disease-free survival through local therapy for all active cancer lesions. Our aims are to investigate the impact of brain metastases on the classification, treatment, and outcome in these patients.
Materials and methods
We analyzed a total of 7,000 oncological positron emission tomography scans to identify patients with extracranial oligometastatic disease (defined as ≤5 intra- or extra-cranial metastases). Concurrent magnetic resonance imaging brain was assessed to quantify intracranial tumor burden. We investigated the impact of brain metastases on oligometastatic disease state, therapeutic approaches, and outcome. Predictors for transitioning from oligo- to polymetastatic states were evaluated using regression analysis.
Results
A total of 106 patients with extracranial oligometastases and simultaneous brain metastases were identified, primarily originating from skin or lung/pleura cancers (90%, n=96). Brain metastases caused a transition from an extracranial oligometastatic to a whole-body polymetastatic state in 45% (n=48) of patients. While oligometastatic patients received systemic therapy (55% vs. 35%) more frequently and radiotherapy for brain metastases was more often prescribed to polymetastatic patients (44% vs. 26%), the therapeutic approach did not differ systematically between both sub-groups. The oligometastatic sub-group had a median overall survival of 28 months compared to 10 months in the polymetastatic sub-group (p<0.01).
Conclusion
In patients with brain metastases, a low total tumor burden with an oligometastatic disease state remained a significant prognostic factor for overall survival. Presence of brain metastases should therefore not serve as exclusion criterion for clinical trials in the field of oligometastatic disease. Moreover, it underscores the importance of considering a multimodality treatment strategy in oligometastatic cancer patients.
Parameter calibration and broadband ground motion simulation based on Bayesian optimization---A case study of the 2023 Türkiye earthquake doublet
Authors: Yang Qianli , Yu Ruifang , Li Zongchao , Lin Peng
Published: July 2024

How to effectively carry out rapid ground motion field under the uncertainty of source and propagation path parameters after an earthquake occurs, it is a difficult problem for earthquake disaster loss assessment. This study presents a novel broadband ground motion simulation method introducing Bayesian hyperparameter optimization into stochastic finite fault model. This new method iteratively correct and optimize source and path parameters through Bayesian optimization to reducing parameters uncertainty in ground motion simulation. Therefore, it can obtain optimal ground-motion estimation while calibrating regional seismic parameters. Firstly，using suggested method, acceleration at 12 stations are simulated for the 2023 Türkiye earthquake (Mw7.5). Then, by comparing with the records of 12 stations, the effectiveness of the method is not only verified, but also the regional key seismological parameters are calibrated to reduce uncertainty, including stress drop and attenuation coefficient, etc. Finally, the calibrated parameters are used in the simulation of the earthquake in Türkiye (Mw7.8) and the ground-motion field was well reproduced. The results show that with the help of efficient black-box exploration capabilities of Bayesian optimization, the established new method can not only be used for the calibration of seismological parameters in areas lacking earthquake data, but also can efficiently simulate the ground motion field that conforms to the regional geological environment. Therefore, it is suitable for rapid assessment of post-earthquake disasters.
Early life factors shaping infant gut anellovirus composition and associations with childhood atopic disease
Authors: Boulund Ulrika , Thorsen Jonathan , Larsen Frej , Poulsen Casper , Widdowson Michael , Jiang Jie , Tranæs Kaare , Deng Ling , Rasmussen Morten , Chawes Bo , Bønnelykke Klaus , Nielsen Dennis , Shah Shiraz , Stokholm Jakob
Published: July 2024

The Anelloviridae family is highly prevalent and genetically diverse, but factors shaping the composition and the relationship with disease remain elusive.
Here, we characterised faecal viromes of 647 one-year-old children from the deeply phenotyped Copenhagen Prospective Studies on Asthma in Childhood2010 (COPSAC2010) mother-child cohort. In this study, the anelloviruses showed immense prevalence and individual variability. Early-life exposures such as being in day care and having older siblings were associated with a reduced anellovirus abundance and diversity, and influenced the anellovirus composition. Additionally, genetic secretors of the FUT2 enzyme had a higher anellovirus abundance compared to non-secretors. We observed an association between anelloviruses and allergic rhinitis, but no associations with infections or the development of other atopic traits. Our findings indicate that anelloviruses are a commensal component of all infants' faecal virome, and further investigations into how immune-training factors influence their composition longitudinally are pertinent.
Smart filter paper with pH-responsive wettability for efficient immiscible oil/water and emulsion separation
Authors: Zhang Yu-Ping , Zhao Chang-Hua , Yuan Pei , Wan Li
Published: July 2024

Materials with stimulus-responsive wettability are increasingly attracting attention due to their potential applications in oil-water separation and oil spill treatment. In this work, a pH-responsive filter paper was rapidly fabricated by facile solution immersion, which was modified by a mixture of SiO 2 nanoparticles and octadecylamine (ODA)-modified TiO 2. The resultant filter paper exhibited its superhydrophobicity and superoleophilicity in the air when the solution pH was greater than 6.0, while it transformed superhydrophilic and underwater superoleophobic when the solution pH was less than 2.0. The as-prepared filter paper was applied to the controllable separation of complex oil/water/oil ternary mixtures, demonstrating its pH stimulus-responsiveness. More importantly, both immiscible oil-water mixtures and different kinds of oil-in-water emulsions were effectively separated with their separation efficiencies more than 99%, respectively. The typical CCl 4-in-water emulsion maintained a separation efficiency of around 99% even after 25 cycles, indicating its excellent durability for the as-prepared filter paper. The developed method can provide new ideas for the design of smart materials for oily wastewater treatment.
Strategies for Community Engagement in Epidemic and Pandemic Preparedness and Response in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Scoping Review
Authors: Issahaku Gyesi Razak , Fischer Hanna-Tina , Appiah-Brempong Emmanuel , Opoku Daniel , Hanefeld Johanna
Published: July 2024

Background
Community engagement is essential for the successful implementation of infection control activities during epidemics and pandemics. Recent reviews of community engagement lack evidence of engagement during the COVID-19 pandemic, while previous reviews have largely focused on concepts and models of community engagement. To address this gap, we conducted a scoping review to identify and consolidate the strategies for community engagement that have been employed as part of epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response activities in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Methods
We used the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) and the methodological framework for scoping reviews from Arksey and O’Malley (2005) to guide the review. Peer-reviewed primary research was retrieved from search engines and databases, including EMBASE, EBSCO-host, PubMed, Global Health, CINAHL, Google Scholar, and Web of Science. The gray literature was retrieved from the websites of international organizations and ministries of health in the 5 sub-Saharan African countries. We included a total of 89 articles in the review, extracted data from the articles and analysed them using a thematic analysis approach.
Results
This review showed that community engagement strategies vary widely across different contexts. In response to COVID-19 and Ebola, the primary strategies employed were social and behavioural change communication (SBCC) and surveillance and contact tracing. For the political response, the main strategies used were SBCC and community entry and trust building. The SBCC was the most common strategy employed in all the responses. The key enablers of and barriers to community engagement include factors such as trust, cultural norms, and resource availability.
Conclusion
Effective community engagement for epidemic and pandemic preparedness and response requires tailored strategies that address the specific disease in question and the needs and concerns of different communities. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the strategies for community engagement that have been implemented in sub-Saharan Africa and highlights the need for further research and evaluation of these strategies.
The protocol for this review was registered in Open Science Framework with registration DOI: https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/D478Z
EGCG Ameliorates Intestinal Injury in Rats by Suppressing Oxidative Stress and Autophagy via Nrf2/HO-1 Signaling
Authors: Xu Enshuang , Lu Yuhan , Sun Yue , Zheng Jiasan
Published: July 2024

Cisplatin (CDDP, CIS) is the first generation of platinum-containing drugs. However, the metabolites of CDDP and other chemotherapeutic drugs cause serious damage to intestinal mucosa and damage intestinal mucosal barrier, leading to dose-limiting side effects such as diarrhea. China is the home of tea, among the many types of tea, green tea is the most widely studied, its anti-cancer, anti-obesity and neuroprotective effects. First, rats were given EGCG(40 mg/kg) 28 d and then injected CDDP ༈7 mg/kg༉ to explore the protective effect of EGCG. HE staining, immunohistochemistry, transmission electron microscopy and TUNEL staining showed that pretreatment of EGCG could reduce intestinal pathological injury, intestinal dysfunction, oxidative stress, apoptosis and hyperautophagy induced by CDDP in rats. Then, it was confirmed by immunofluorescence and Western blot tests that EGCG protected the intestine mainly by activating the NRF2/HO-1 signaling pathway. Finally, the protective effect of EGCG was weakened after administration of NRF2 inhibitor (ML385) for 28 d and then injection of cisplatin. In summary, EGCG can reduce intestinal oxidative damage, apoptosis and autophagy through Nrf2/HO-1 signaling pathway, thus playing a role in intestinal protection, providing a new idea for the prevention of side effects of chemotherapy drugs.
Remodeling of Intracellular Architecture During SARS-CoV-2 Infection of Human Endothelium
Authors: Kubisiak Agata , Dabrowska Agnieszka , Botwina Pawel , Twardawa Patrycja , Kloska Damian , Kołodziej Tomasz , Rajfur Zenon , Pyrc Krzysztof , Targosz-Korecka Marta
Published: July 2024

Clinical data indicate that COVID-19 causes cardiovascular complications, regardless of the severity of the disease. In this work, we have shown that SARS-CoV-2 infection causes vascular dysfunction due to the modification of endothelial cell elasticity. We used human pulmonary endothelial cells (HPAECs) expressing the ACE2 receptor as a model of the endothelium. This system mimics in vivo conditions, as it allows virus entry but not replication. As a reference, we used A549 epithelial cells, a well-described model that supports productive replication of SARS-CoV-2. We show that the infection of HPAECs results in cell stiffening, which correlates with increased polymerization of actin filaments and induction of the inflammatory response. On the contrary, A549 epithelial cells supporting viral replication showed decreased stiffness. We demonstrated the endothelial stiffening effect for four variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus: Wuhan, Alpha, Beta, and Delta. Consequently, we believe that nonproductive SARS-CoV-2 infection associated with stiffening of the endothelium may be clinically relevant and result in dysfunction and damage to this tissue.
Expression of Recombinant Taq DNA Polymerase in Oligotrophic Klebsiella oxytoca: A Novel Approach to Industrial Enzyme Production
Authors: Tankus Mustafa , Balci Gamze , Dedeakayogullari Huri , Kati Ahmet
Published: July 2024

The demand for high-efficiency DNA polymerases in molecular biology and diagnostic applications has led to the exploration of novel microbial hosts for enzyme production. This study investigates the expression of recombinant Taq DNA polymerase in Klebsiella oxytoca, an oligotrophic bacterium known for its minimal nutrient requirements and robust growth in diverse environments. By leveraging the metabolic versatility and adaptive capabilities of K. oxytoca, we aimed to establish a cost-effective and sustainable method for producing Taq polymerase at an industrial scale. The recombinant K. oxytoca was engineered using a plasmid vector containing the Taq polymerase gene under the control of a strong promoter. Optimal expression conditions were identified, including the appropriate induction time and temperature, leading to high yields of active enzyme. The Taq DNA polymerase was successfully expressed in a standard LB medium and at a concentration of 0.1% (v/v). Expressed Taq DNA polymerases were characterized by SDS-PAGE and PCR activity analyses were performed. The same processes were also carried out in scale-up studies, and it was investigated whether TaqDNA polymerase production in Klebsiella oxytoca was suitable for industry. This approach not only reduces production costs but also aligns with green chemistry principles by utilizing a host organism that thrives on minimal resources. Our findings suggest that oligotrophic K. oxytoca is a promising candidate for the biotechnological production of recombinant enzymes, offering an innovative pathway for enhancing industrial enzyme manufacturing processes.
Quantum Leap in Cardiac Prognosis: EMIP-CardioPPG’s Pioneering Approach to Early Myocardial Infarction Prediction
Authors: Shrivastava Abhishek , Kumar Santosh , Srinivas N.
Published: July 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) encompasses conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels, leading to ailments such as coronary artery disease, heart failure, and myocardial infarction (MI), commonly referred to as a heart attack, which occurs when blood flow to the heart is obstructed. Early prediction of MI is vital to prevent severe damage and enhance survival rates. Traditionally, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is employed to detect cardiovascular anomalies, but its requirement for multiple electrodes placed on various body locations makes continuous monitoring difficult. Current research gaps involve the necessity for medical assistance during ECG monitoring, data variability, early symptom prediction, and limited data availability due to the sensitive nature of medical records. To address these issues, we introduce EMIP-CardioPPG, a novel mathematical framework for early MI prediction using CardioPPG, a non-invasive method that utilizes photoplethysmography (PPG) signals to monitor heart rate (HR) and detect cardiovascular abnormalities. Our approach comprises four steps: first, acquiring data from the same individual using two different sources, a self-created IoMT device and a 4-channel BIOAC-MP 36 device; second, preprocessing the data by denoising, filtering, normalizing, and removing motion arti-facts; and third, employing mathematical calculations to determine heart rate variability (HRV) and HR, enhancing PPG signal features for early MI prediction. fourth, Evaluate our model performance using machine learning (ML) algorithms such as ridge regression (RR), support vector classifier (SVC), independent component analysis (ICA), singular value decomposition (SVD), random forest (RF), and XGBoost, achieving high accuracy of 97.91% for HRV from our IomT device and 98.83% for HR from our BOPAC-MP 36. In future studies, we will compare our results with state-of-the-art algorithms and evaluate our model’s performance using cardiac images.
Application of combined WRF-Chem and HYSPLIT models for dust storm detection in Central Iran (case study of Isfahan province, May 21-23, 2016)
Authors: Sardoo Farshad Soleimani , Hamzeh Nasim Hossein , Krakauer Nir
Published: July 2024

Dust is one of the most important problems of human societies in arid and semi-arid areas. This study analyzed the rising and propagation of the dust storm from May 21 to 23, 2016 in Isfahan province (central Iran) by using the WRF-Chem and HYSPLYT models. The dust storm was visualized using MODIS sensor data of Terra and Aqua satellites, and the dust emission and transport was simulated for central Iran by using WRF-Chem with the AFWA and GOCART schemes,. The results showed that the amount of dust concentration on Sistan and Baluchistan province and the Persian Gulf was as high as 2000 mg/m3 and both schemes estimate the highest amount of dust emissions from the central parts of Iran and the eastern part of Isfahan province. PM10 data of Yazd station was used to verify the model outputs, which showed that the AFWA dust scheme has a higher correlation coefficient with observations (0.62) than GOCART dust scheme. This case study suggests that the WRF-Chem dust schemes reasonably simulate dust rising and propagation in central Iran but that improvements are still needed for accurate prediction of dust concentrations and extents.
Iron’s role in soil organic carbon (de)stabilization in mangroves under land use change
Authors: Ruiz Francisco , Bernardino Angelo , Queiroz Hermano , Otero Xosé Luis , Rumpel Cornelia , Ferreira Tiago
Published: July 2024

Mangroves are coastal hotspots for carbon storage and yet face multiple threats from anthropogenic activities. Here we explore the role of Fe-mediated organomineral interactions (FeOMI) in soil organic carbon (SOC) stabilization and its sensitivity to land use change (LUC) in Amazonian mangroves. First, we show that the poorly crystalline Fe oxides represent the most effective Fe phase for retaining SOC in pristine mangroves. Contrary to prevailing assumptions about high stability induced by FeOMI, thermal analysis revealed an increase in organic matter stability after Fe removal from samples. The results thus indicate that Fe protects more labile SOC fractions, otherwise vulnerable to biological degradation. Despite the fragile equilibrium of FeOMI under dynamic redox conditions in mangroves, this balance sustains a substantial pool of labile SOC (approximately 8% of total SOC). The studied LUC scenario led to massive loss of Fe-bound OC as less crystalline phases were either degraded or transformed into more crystalline ones, losing the efficiency in retaining SOC. We show that the conversion of mangroves to pastures and shrimp ponds, which are pervasive globally, trigger important biogeochemical changes driving SOC persistence, and therefore have major implications for the intended restoration and carbon capture in mangroves areas formerly disturbed.
Comparison of Microbiological Loads of Enteral Products Applied in Room Temperature and Intensive Care Conditions
Authors: ılıman alev yıldız , YURTTAŞ Merve , ERGÜL Dursun Fırat , TUTKAOĞLU Salim
Published: July 2024

Background
Despite the high risk of bacterial contamination, no studies have been found that evaluate the optimal hanging time of open system enteral sets under room temperature and intensive care conditions. This study aims to determine the differences in microbial loads of solutions taken from open system enteral feeding sets hanging for 24 hours under room temperature and intensive care conditions.
Methods
This study is a descriptive type of research. The study sample consisted of a total of 40 samples, with 20 samples under room temperature and 20 samples under intensive care conditions. A simple random sampling method was used for sample selection. The assessment of microbial quality was based on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) online Bacteriological Analytical Manual.
Results
In this study, it was determined that 5% of the samples taken from intensive care and 15% of the samples taken at room temperature exceeded the accepted limit for aerobic mesophilic bacteria count. The count of catalase and coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp. was 5% in intensive care samples and 40% in room temperature samples. The total coliform count was not detected in intensive care samples but was 35% in room temperature samples. E. coli was not detected in either group.
Conclusion
Differences in microbial loads were observed when commercial enteral solutions were administered using open system enteral feeding sets under room and intensive care conditions for 24 hours. Therefore, large-scale studies are needed to determine the safe use of open system enteral feeding sets under room temperature conditions.
Molecular survey on the presence of Leishmania infantum in dogs in rural regions of Taybad County
Authors: Sangani Hesam Rahmani , Sadaghian Mohammad , Daneshvar AmirHossein Khavari
Published: July 2024

Aim: Leishmania infantum is the main cause of visceral leishmaniasis (Kala-Azar) in most parts of Iran and dogs are the most important host as its reservoirs. As far as Visceral leishmaniasis is one of the most dangerous diseases, especially for children in some provinces of Iran, high sensitivity to determining the infection in rural dogs has crucial importance in view of their close contact of them with human inhabitants. So, the present study was conducted to investigate and identify Leishmania infantum in dogs, in rural areas of Taybad city, eastern Iran.
Methods: Blood samples were taken from the cephalic veins of 102 dogs in 3 groups: herd, guard, and stray. These samples were transferred to the laboratory by cold chain condition. 2 step PCR technique was used to investigate the presence of the parasite among the samples.
Results: According to the results, out of 102 tested dogs, 4 (3.9%) of them were infected with Leishmania infantum. Also, the prevalence of the disease was not significantly related to age, sex, region, clinical symptoms, and type of dog, using the chi-square test (P> 0.05).
Conclusion: According to the available findings, the rate of infection of dogs in Taybad city was evaluated as relatively low but the survey outcome emphasizes continuous monitoring of the reservoirs as well as rural inhabitants of the area.
Necessary Noise: Music, Film, and Charitable Imperialism in the East of Congo
Authors: Swanson Carlehr
Published: July 2024

Review of: Necessary Noise: Music, Film, and Charitable Imperialism in the East of Congo. Chérie Rivers Ndaliko, 2016. New York, NY: Oxford University Press. 30 b/w illustrations, bibliography, index, filmography, companion site, 285 pages.