bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential distribution of three invasive agricultural pests in China under climate change
Authors: Zhang Yanjing , Wan Yaqiong , Wang Chenbin , Chen Jing , Si Qin , Ma Fangzhou
Published: February 2024

Invasive pests reduce biodiversity and ecosystem service functions, thereby leading to economic and environmental losses and human health issues. Erionota torus Evans, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus, and Opisina arenosella are invasive insect pests in the palm-growing regions of China. Their future distribution patterns are unknown. The MaxEnt model was used to simulate the potential distribution dynamics of these three invasive species. Results indicate that the suitable habitat area of E. torus Evans remains relatively stable with some expansion in the SSP126 of 2081–2100 and some contraction in the SSP585 of 2081–2100. The suitable habitat area of R. ferrugineus showed an overall contraction, with substantial contraction in the SSP585 of 2081–2100. The suitable habitat area of O. arenosella has an overall expansion, with the most pronounced expansion in the SSP585 of 2061–2080. Human disturbance factors, temperature, and precipitation were crucial variables for describing the distribution of the three species. O. arenosella shows an expanding trend, requiring improved prevention and control management measures. E. torus shows a inconsistent trend, which need to strengthen dynamic monitoring and prevent recurrence. These findings provide information that could aid in the spatial management and effective control of other invasive insects in China.
Current trends in take-out food consumption and its influencing factors among first-trimester pregnant women in Changsha
Authors: Teng Sheng , Lin Leshi , Li Wenjuan , Yang Yi , Li Li , Peng Fang , Gao Xiao , Peng Dongmei
Published: February 2024

Background
Take-out food consumption has adverse effects on public health, and previous studies have reported that frequent consumption of take-out food increases the risk of hypertension and heart disease. However, the status of take-out food consumption among pregnant women remains unclear. This study aimed to provide a comprehensive description of the present state of take-out food consumption among first-trimester pregnant women in Changsha and to investigate the factors influencing this behaviour.
Methods
This study included 888 pregnant women in early pregnancy based on the Changsha maternal and child birth cohort (March to August 2022). Electronic questionnaires were administered during early antenatal check-ups. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS 18.0, including nonparametric Kruskal–Wallis H tests and multivariate ordinal logistic regression, to explore the factors influencing take-out food consumption by first-trimester pregnant women.
Results
In Changsha, 73.3% of pregnant women consumed take-out food during early pregnancy. The top three types of take-out foods commonly consumed were rice noodles or noodles (55.7%), Chinese fast foods (49.9%), and sugary drinks or desserts (37.4%). The results of multivariate ordinal logistic regression analysis revealed that pregnant women with depression symptoms (odds ratio [OR] = 1.65, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18–2.32), higher education level (OR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.23–2.88), and higher online time (OR = 1.50, 95% CI: 1.11–2.03) consumed take-out food more frequently in early pregnancy than those without depression symptoms, lower education level, and lower online time.
Conclusions
Our study suggests that take-out food consumption is common among first-trimester pregnant women in Changsha. Education level, depression symptoms, and online time are risk factors that may potentially influence the consumption of take-out food during early pregnancy.
Effects of Ischemic Preconditioning on Aerobic Capacity in Healthy Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhou Limingfei , Gan Jianyu , Tan Yineng , Bao Dapeng , Zhou Junhong
Published: February 2024

Background: Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) may be a promising strategy to improve aerobic capacity in healthy adults, while such effects have not been comprehensively characterized. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effects of IPC intervention on aerobic capacity in healthy adults.
Methods: Studies with randomized controlled or crossover designs exploring the effects of IPC as compared to no intervention or placebo control on time trial performance (TTP), time to exhaustion (TTE), maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max), peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), and blood lactate (BLA) in healthy adults were included. The data (M ± SD) were extracted from included studies and converted into mean difference (MD) by calculating fixed-effect meta-analysis. Subgroup analysis was used to examine the characteristics of IPC intervention, participants, and exercise tests.
Results: Twenty publications consisting of 297 participants were included. The overall analysis showed that TTE significantly improved after IPC intervention compared with the control [MD = 31.78, 95%CI (17.67, 45.89), P < 0.01]. In subgroup analysis, TTE was significantly improved only in acute intervention conditions [MD = 31.50, 95%CI (17.12, 45.88), P < 0.01], in untrained participants [MD = 50.37, 95%CI (30.47, 70.27), P < 0.01], and assessed by cycling exercise tests [MD = 46.51, 95%CI (26.21, 66.82), P < 0.01]. However, no significant effect was observed on TTP [MD = −1.75, 95%CI (−8.79, 5.29), P = 0.63], VO2max/VO2peak [MD = 0.10, 95%CI (−1.02, 1.21), P = 0.87], and BLA [MD = 0.26, 95%CI (−0.05, 0.57), P = 0.10] in healthy adults after IPC intervention.
Conclusions: This meta-analysis provides moderate evidence that IPC intervention cannot induce significant improvement in aerobic capacity, but it improves the tolerance of the training intensity and fatigue recovery in healthy adults. IPC intervention might be effective (i) in acute intervention conditions, (ii) in untrained athletes or beginner athletes, and (iii) in exercises dominated by the muscles at the position of the intervention.
Systematic review registration: www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier: CRD42023407412.
Coronavirus Disease 2019 Combined with T. marneffei Infection Complicated by Undiagnosed HIV：A case report and literature review
Authors: Li Xiaoling , Yang Liting , Li Weijie , Liang Peifeng , Pan Dongfeng
Published: February 2024

Background: Talaromycosis(TSM) commonly occurs in immunodeficient or immunosuppressed individuals, but it can also occur in healthy populations. The present case reports the COVID-19 together with human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) and TSM.
Case Presentation: This report describes a 26-year-old male who presented with a fever and cough for 20 days. He was diagnosed with COVID-19 and viral pneumonia through a real-time RT-PCR assay and chest CT scan. However, his symptoms failed to improve significantly despite being treated with high-flow oxygen, levofloxacin antibiotic, and dexamethasone for 5 days. The presence of white streaks in his oral cavity, combined with the patient's history of multiple antibiotics, raised the possibility of a fungal infection. The results of the oral pharyngeal swabs indicated that he was infected with T. marnefii, which led to testing for HIV and eventually confirmed the diagnosis.
Conclusion: This case demonstrates the importance of being alert to concurrent fungal infections when infecting with COVID-19 and using multiple antimicrobial agents. Additionally, when infecting with T. marnefii, it is crucial to focus on the presence of HIV infection.
The Hammett substituent constant of the dodecaborate dianion inaugurates a non-coordinating, non-basic, and strongly inductively electron-donating group for organic chemistry
Authors: Gabel Detlef , Al-Joumhawy Mahmoud , Assaf Khaleel I , Nau Werner
Published: February 2024

The dodecaborate anion (B12H122–, DDB) has been qualitatively considered as a strong electron donor. Here, we report the Hammett substituent constant for DDB and its amino derivative (DDB–NH), which are among the strongest electron donors reported so far, on a scale that employs the 19F chemical shift of meta- and para-substituted fluorobenzenes in DMSO. The dissection of the substituent effect into inductive/field and resonance contributions shows that specifically the DDB group exerts an exceptionally strong and dominant inductive/field effect, which presents another unique feature in comparison to established electron-donating groups. In contrast to the latter, the DDB group does not become readily protonated, it does not tend to coordinate with Lewis acids or transition metals, and it is chemically and photochemically inert. In addition, the electron-donating effect of the DDB group can be combined with other electron donors to afford an even more strongly electron-donating group, DDB–NH. The newly characterized electron-donating groups can be utilized in diverse contexts, among which the maximization of push-pull effects on the optical absorption spectra of chromophores presents one specific application.
Neurocognitive Manifestation After Treatment Of Pediatric Severe Anaphylaxis
Authors: Nti Benjamin , Allen Sheryl
Published: February 2024

Background
Anaphylaxis is a common yet severe yet life-threatening allergic reaction that occurs rapidly after exposure to an allergen which can affect multiple system in the body. In rare cases, it may lead to additional neurological manifestation that is poorly understood.
Case Presentation:
We present a case of a 14-year-old boy who experienced severe anaphylaxis necessitating airway intervention and admission to critical care. While his initial presentation and treatment aligned with current standards, he subsequently developed prolonged neurological deficits, including weakness, prosopagnosia, amnesia, and loss of basic functions, during an extended recovery period.
Conclusion
This rare neurological manifestation following anaphylaxis may be overlooked by many clinicians. Therefore, it is imperative to highlight this potential complication to improve the management of patients experiencing anaphylaxis.
Slip Distribution of the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake (MJMA 7.6) Estimated from Tsunami Waveforms and GNSS Data
Authors: Fujii Yushiro , Satake Kenji
Published: February 2024

The 1 January 2024 Noto-Hanto (Noto Peninsula) earthquake (MJMA 7.6) generated strong ground motion, large crustal deformation and tsunamis that caused significant damage in the region. Off Noto Peninsula, offshore submarine active faults have been identified by previous projects: Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) and Japan Sea Earthquake and Tsunami Research Project (JSPJ). We inverted the tsunami waveforms recorded on 6 wave gauges and 12 tide gauges around Sea of Japan and the GNSS data recorded at 13 stations in Noto Peninsula to estimate the slip amount and seismic moment on each of active faults. The results show that 2024 coseismic slips were 4 m, 3 m, and 3 m on subfautls NT 4, NT5 and NT6 of the JSPJ model, located on the northern coast of Noto Peninsula and dipping toward southeast. A smaller slip, 1.5 m, estimated on NT 8 on the northwestern edge, may be because of its previous rupture during the 2007 Noto earthquake. The total length of these four faults is ~ 100 km, and the seismic moment is 1.86 × 1020 Nm (Mw = 7.4). No slip was estimated on the northeastern subfaults NT2 and NT3, which dip northwestward, opposite to NT4-NT5-NT6, and western subfault NT8. Aftershocks including the MJMA 6.1 event occurred on the NT2-NT3 region, hence these two faults may have a potential to produce larger earthquake and associated tsunamis. Similar features are also found for the MLIT model; the 2024 slip was only on F43 along the northern coast of Noto Peninsula, and northeastern F42 did not rupture, leaving the future potential.
Surgery with peripheral nerve block of the lower extremities under dexmedetomidine sedation for diabetic foot ulcers and chronic limb-threatening ischemia: a single-center questionnaire study and a retrospective observational study
Authors: Nakamura Hideharu , Makiguchi Takaya , Sakurai Kei , Tsunoda Aya , Tomaru Nana , Shirabe Ken , Yokoo Satoshi
Published: February 2024

Background
Patients who require surgical treatment for diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) or chronic limb-threatening ischemia (CLTI) are often in poor general condition and have complications. General anesthesia may be risky in surgery for such patients. Thus, we perform surgery using peripheral nerve block under dexmedetomidine sedation for patients with DFU and CLTI.
Methods
In this study, we investigated intraoperative stress and anxiety in a postoperative questionnaire and examined the safety of this procedure in 18 cases in which dexmedetomidine was used during peripheral nerve block. Sedation levels were assessed using the observer's assessment of alertness/sedation (OAA/S) score on a 5-point scale from 5 (awake) to 1 (deeply sedated). Postoperatively, a questionnaire was administered to assess intraoperative stress and memory. Intraoperative stress was assessed using a 6-point face scale (0 to 6: not at all to unbearably high), and intraoperative memory was rated on a 5-point numeric scale (1 to 5: no memory to everything).
Results
The intraoperative OAA/S score was 3–5, indicating that appropriate sedation was obtained. The mean intraoperative stress score was 0.72 (range: 0–3) and the mean intraoperative memory score was 2.44 (range: 1–4). One patient had bradycardia and nine had hypoxemia. All of these cases were improved by decreasing the dose of dexmedetomidine and encouraging deep breathing on call.
Conclusions
These results suggest that this procedure is a useful method to reduce patient burden and alleviate stress and anxiety during surgery. However, dexmedetomidine may cause hypoxemia in patients with DFU or CLTI; thus, attention should be paid to hypoxemia and countermeasures should be taken against this adverse effect.
Cytological structures and physiological and biochemical characteristics of covered (Avena sativa L.) and naked (Avena nuda L.) oat seeds during high- temperature artificial aging
Authors: Yao Ruirui , Liu Huan , Wang Jinglong , Shi Shangli , Zhao Guiqin , Zhou Xiangrui
Published: February 2024

Background
Seed aging, a natural and inevitable process occurring during storage. Oats, an annual herb belonging to the Gramineae family and pooideae. In addition to being a healthy food, oats serve as ecological pastures, combating soil salinization and desertification. They also play a role in promoting grassland agriculture and supplementing winter livestock feed. However, the high lipid and fat derivatives contents of oat seeds make them susceptible to deterioration, as fat derivatives are prone to rancidity, affecting oat seed production, storage, development, and germplasm resource utilization. Comparative studies on the effects of aging on physiology and cytological structure in covered and naked oat seeds are limited. Thus, our study aimed to determine the mechanism underlying seed deterioration in artificially aged ‘LongYan No. 3’ (A. sativa) and ‘BaiYan No. 2’ (A. nuda) seeds, providing a basis for the physiological evaluation of oat seed aging and serving as a reference for scientifically safe storage and efficient utilization of oats.
Results
In both oat varieties, superoxide dismutase and catalase activities in seeds showed increasing and decreasing trends, respectively. Variance analysis revealed significant differences and interaction in all measured indicators of oat seeds between the two varieties at different aging times. ‘LongYan No. 3’ seeds, aged for 24–96 h, exhibited a germination rate of < 30%, Conductivity, malondialdehyde, soluble sugar, and soluble protein levels increased more significantly than the ‘BaiYan No. 2’. With prolonged aging leading to cell membrane degradation, reactive oxygen species accumulation, disrupted antioxidant enzyme system, evident embryo cell swelling, and disordered cell arrangement, blocking the nutrient supply route. Simultaneously, severely concentrated chromatin in the nucleus, damaged mitochondrial structure, and impaired energy metabolism were noted, resulting in the loss of ‘LongYan No. 3’ seed vitality and value. Conversely, ‘BaiYan No. 2’ seeds showed a germination rate of 73.33% after 96 h of aging, consistently higher antioxidant enzyme activity during aging, normal embryonic cell shape, and existence of the endoplasmic reticulum.
Conclusions
Therefore, ‘LongYan No. 3’ seeds were more severely damaged under artificial aging than ‘BaiYan No. 2’ seeds, highlighting their heightened susceptibility to aging effects.
Pyrolysis Properties of Cellulose and Lignins isolated from Different Turkish Biomass: Evolved gas analysis in pyrolysis of biomass and combustion of char via TG-FTIR
Authors: Ballice Levent
Published: February 2024

Biomass is encouraged as a renewable energy source due to the energy crisis and the increase of greenhouse gases in the environment. Basic energy conversion methods, such as gasification and combustion, start with the devolatilization of organic molecules. In this study, the behavior of agricultural biomass from Turkey that contained various cellulose and lignin fractions was studied during slow pyrolysis and combustion. The pyrolysis of lignin produced the largest gas production, with CO2 constituting up the bulk of the gas mixture. CO is the second-highest-yield gas and is primarily formed from samples of cellulose and lignin. For lignin samples, the pyrolysis operation yielded the maximum amount of char, while the combustion of the lignin chars produced the highest amount of gas yields. On the other hand, lignin samples, particularly almond lignin, have the lowest tar production. One of the most significant issues with gasification is tar production and removal, and biomass rich in lignin would be the best material to use when tar formation must be kept to a minimum.
Some Notes on the Consequences of Pretreatment of Multivariate Data
Authors: Hadi Ali S. , Moustafa Rida
Published: February 2024

Before performing certain statistical or machine learning techniques(e.g., regression analysis, clustering, classification, neural networks, principal components analysis, factor analysis, support vector machine, $k$-nearest neighbors, etc.), it may benecessary to preprocess and/or pretreat the data to make them suitable for theanalysis. For example, given an n × p data matrix X, which represents n multivariate observations or cases (rows) on p variables or features (columns), thecolumns and/or the rows of X may be pretreated (e.g., centered and/or scaled)before applying statistical or machine learning techniques to the data. Although centering and/or scaling the variablesdo not change the correlation structure nor the graphical representation of the data, centering and/or scaling the observations do. Inthis paper we investigate various row pretreatment methods more closely and show with theoretical proofsand numerical examples (of constructed as well as real-life data) that centering and/or scaling the rows of X changes both thegraphical structure of the observations in the multi-dimensionalspace and the correlation structure among the variables. The pretreatment of the columns and/or rows may have an impact on the output of the statistical or machine learning techniques. There may be good reasons for performing row centering and/orscaling on the data and we are not against it, but analysts who use such row operations should be aware of thegeometrical and correlation structures one has performed on the data and should alsodemonstrate that the process results in a new, more appropriate structure for their questions.
Construction of a Euclidean metric based equidistant grid on an arbitrary curve
Authors: Ceely William J , Chugunova Marina , Sawhney Raj , Volkmer Hans
Published: February 2024

We consider a geometrical problem of existence of an equidistant set of $N$ points, under the Euclidean metric, on non-closed and closed curves. For the non-closed curve we give a new version of the geometrical proof of the existence based on the continuous mapping argument. For a closed curve we construct a counterexample if the number of points $N$ is arbitrarily chosen and we give a proof of existence of the set if $N$ is taken sufficiently large. We develop numerical algorithms that build solutions for both types of curves.
A computational HLA allele-typing protocol to de-noise and leverage nanopore amplicon data
Authors: Siddiqui Jalal , Sinha Rohita , Grantham James , LaCombe Ronnie , Alonzo Judith R. , Cowden Scott , Kleiboeker Steven
Published: February 2024

Background
Rapid turnaround time for a high-resolution deceased donor human leukocyte antigen (HLA) typing is critical to improve organ transplantation outcomes. Third generation DNA sequencing platforms such as Oxford Nanopore (ONT) offer the opportunity to deliver rapid results at single nucleotide level resolution, in particular sequencing data that could be denoised computationally. Here we present a computational pipeline for the high-resolution (up to third field) HLA allele typing following ONT sequencing.
Results
From a R10.4 Q20 + chemistry batch of 31 samples of known HLA allele types, up to 10,000 ONT reads were aligned using BWA aligner, to reference allele sequences from the IMGT/HLA database. For each gene, the top two hits to reference alleles at the third field were selected. Using our pipeline, we obtained the following percent concordance at the 1st, 2nd and 3rd field: A (98.4%, 98.4%, 98.4%), B (100%, 96.8%, 96.8%), C (100%, 98.4%, 98.4%), DPA1 (100%, 96.8%, 96.8), DPB1 (100%, 100%, 98.4%), DQA1 (100%, 98.4%, 98.4%), DQB1 (100%, 98.4%, 98.4%), DRB1 (83.9%, 64.5%, 64.5%), DRB3 (96%, 88%, 88%), DRB4 (100%, 100%, 100%) and DRB5 (100%, 100%, 100%). By running our pipeline on an R10.3 flow cell batch of 63 samples, the following percent concordances were obtained: : A (100%, 96.8%, 88.1%), B (100%, 90.5.4%, 88.1%), C (100%, 99.2%, 99.2%), DPA1 (100%, 100%, 99.2), DPB1 (98.4%, 97.6%, 92.9%), DQA1 (100%, 100%, 98.4%), DQB1 (100%, 97.6%, 96%), DRB1 (88.9%, 68.3%, 68.3%), DRB3 (97.3%, 94.6%, 94.6%), DRB4 (100%, 100%, 97%) and DRB5 (73.3%, 66.7%, 66.7%). In addition, our pipelines demonstrated significantly improved concordance compared to publicly available pipeline HLA-LA (> 9% difference) and concordances close to Athlon2 (< 5% difference) in commercial development.
Conclusion
Our algorithm had a > 98% concordance for non-DRB genes at 3rd field on the R10.4 Q20 + chemistry batch and > 88% concordance for non-DRB genes at 3rd field and > 90% at 2nd field on the R10.3 batch tested. In addition, it out-performs HLA-LA and approaches the performance of the Athlon2. This lays groundwork for better utilizing Nanopore sequencing data for HLA typing especially in improving organ transplant outcomes.
Innovative Approaches to Torsion Analysis in Functionally Graded iso/orthotropic sections: A Differential Quadrature and pb2-Rayleigh Rit exploration.
Authors: Rajasekaran Sundaramoorthy
Published: February 2024

This study focuses on the determination of torsional rigidity and maximum shear stresses in arbitrarily shaped isotropic and orthotropic composite sections with functional grading of material. A series of numericalexamples are solved to validate this approach, with a comprehensive parametricstudy also conducted. The paper presents the practical application of the DQM and pb-2 Rayleigh-Ritz methods for evaluating shear stress and torsionalrigidity in various section shapes including quadrilaterala sn triang;es wotj nptj straogjt amd cirved edges. as well as elliptical, circular and rounded poygonal shapes. The boundaryconditions are speciried as Drichlet.
To facilitate the analysis, four - nodded (for sections with straight edges) or eight-nodded (for sections with curved edges) iso-parametric rectangular element, andthree-nodded (for sections with straight edges) or six-nodded (for sections with curved edges) for triangular elements are used to map the irregular physical domain into a square or trangular computational domain,as appropriate. A noteworthy advantage of this approach is that the governing equatin for torsion, which relies on the Prandtl stress function approach, reduces to a second-order differential equation (Poisson's equation). The transformation to this second-order equation is ficiently accomplished, resulting in reduced computational effort.
Both within the computational domain andalong its boundary, the primary unknowns are the values of Prandtl's stress functional ( for Poisson' equation) or the warping displacement function (for Laplace's equation). This approach streamlines the analysis, making it a power tool for understanding the torsional behaviour of functionally graded isotropic and orthotropic and coposite sections with complex shapes.
Effect of Graphene nanoparticles reinforcement on the mechanical properties of ZE41/Graphene nanocomposites prepared by stir casting route
Authors: Thanikodi Sathish
Published: February 2024

In the past, aluminium alloys greatly influenced the aerospace, automotive, and medical fields, particularly in biomedical applications. However, in contemporary times, magnesium alloys have emerged as highly promising materials for biomedical applications and casting processes. This study focuses primarily on magnesium metal matrix composites, utilizing ZE41 magnesium alloy as the base material. ZE41 possesses a high ductile nature, excellent mechanical strength, and impressive wear and corrosion resistance properties. In this experimental work, Nano-Graphene is employed as reinforcement particles. The investigation employs the stir casting methodology to create magnesium metal matrix nanocomposites. The responses considered in this work are compressive strength and microhardness. Both responses undergo Taguchi statistical analysis with varying process parameters. A Taguchi L16 orthogonal array is utilized to assess the optimization parameters of the stir casting process. The parameters include reinforcement percentage (3%, 6%, 9%, and 12%), stirring speed (300, 400, 500, and 600 rpm), melting temperature (700, 750, 800, and 850°C), and stirring time (15, 20, 25, and 30 mins). The mechanical properties, specifically compressive strength and microhardness, are thoroughly examined. The highest compressive strength, reaching 276.66, was achieved with 12% reinforcement, a stirring speed of 400 rpm, a melting temperature of 800°C, and a stirring time of 15 mins. Similarly, the maximum microhardness, recorded at 172 VHN, was influenced by 6% reinforcement, a stirring speed of 600 rpm, a melting temperature of 800°C, and a stirring time of 20 mins.
Total bilirubin level on postoperative day 3 in predicting clinically relevant pancreatic fistula after pancreaticoduodenectomy : a retrospective study
Authors: Wang Zhicheng , Qin Xiliang , Zhang Zhichao , Hu Xiaosi , Wang Yong , Pan Hongtao , Liu Huichun , Zhu Chao , Chen Shilei , Zhou Shuai , Pang Qing , Jin Hao
Published: February 2024

Background: The prevalence of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistulas (CR-POPF) following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) is relatively high. Most studies on the prediction of CR-POPF are limited to pre-operation, while there are few indicators to predict CR-POPF in the early postoperative period. The purpose of this study was to investigate the value of total bilirubin (TBIL) level on postoperative day 3 in predicting CR-POPF after PD.
Methods: The clinical data of 170 patients who underwent PD in our team from January 2015 to October 2022 was retrospectively analyzed into two groups: the CR-POPF group with a grade B or C pancreatic fistula (n = 37), the no CR-POPF group with a non-pancreatic fistula, and the biochemical fistula patients (n = 133). Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to screen the potential indicators for predicting CR-POPF. The predictive value of risk factors was assessed by area under the ROC curve.
Results: Preoperative variables, including hemoglobin (Hb), C-reactive protein (CRP), TBIL, albumin (ALB), pancreatic texture, hemorrhage, duct diameter, and TBIL on postoperative day 3, were identified as predictors of clinically relevant postoperative pancreatic fistula (CR-POPF) after pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) (p < 0.001). The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that pancreatic texture (p = 0.004), postoperative TBIL (p<0.001), and preoperative CRP (p = 0.048) were identified as independent risk variables. To predict CR-POPF, the area under the curve (AUC) of pancreatic texture, TBIL on the third day of surgery, and preoperative CRP were found to be 0.607, 0.824, and 0.726, respectively.
Conclusion: The TBIL level on postoperative day 3 is a significant predictor of CR-POPF after PD which can accurately predict CR-POPF.
Genetic Algorithm-Based Three-Pole Pulse Design for IEEE802.15.4a Standard
Authors: Dhieb Mohamed , Ketata Moez , Loussert Alain , Lahiani Mongi , Ghariani Hamadi
Published: February 2024

This article presents a novel triangular-shaped pulse design for Ultra-Wide-Band (UWB) radio pulses, specifically in compliance with the IEEE 802.15.4a standard and the Spectral Masks of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Utilizing a Genetic Algorithm (GA), our objective is to develop a triple pulse form that satisfies the requirements set by these standards. Theoretical analysis and simulations showcase enhanced performance in comparison to existing UWB pulses, achieving a power loss mask of 3%, off-band emission of 5% within an 8% emission band, and a remarkable spectral efficiency exceeding 75%.
Micro-parameter calibration of layered rock samples with a dual model in PFC3D based on a combined optimization method
Authors: Ding Chengyuan , Zuo Shuangying , Ye Zhiqiang
Published: February 2024

A combined optimization method termed PB-RSM-NSGA2 was proposed to investigate micro-parameter calibration of layered rock samples with a dual model in Particle Flow Code (PFC). Firstly, the numerical uniaxial compression test with the layered rock samples was conducted, in which the parallel bonding model and the smooth joint model were used to simulate the rock matrix and the interlayer cementation, respectively. The micro-parameters with significant influence on macro response were screened out by the Plackett-Burman (PB) test design. Subsequently, non-linear relationships between macro-parameters and their main controlling micro-parameters were established via the response surface method (RSM) and model verification. Thirdly, the non-linear multi-objective mathematical optimization problem was solved by the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II (NSGA2), and the micro-parameters were determined. Finally, the uniaxial compression stress-strain curves were modified with a compaction coefficient and compared with the physical test results. The research results revealed that the dual model was highly suitable for simulating the mechanical properties of layered rocks. In the smooth joint model, normal stiffness, tangential stiffness, tangential strength, and bedding thickness significantly impacted layered rock samples' interlayer strength and deformation. The parallel bond model's micro elastic modulus and normal bonding strength significantly influenced the uniaxial compressive strength and peak strain. The corrected simulation curves agreed with the physical test results. The study can provide valuable insights and methods for micro-parameters calibration in PFC3D numerical simulations for layered rock mass engineering stability.
Contextualising and challenging under-representation in research in light of cultural trauma: a scoping review and qualitative focus group study
Authors: Fryer Kate , Hutt Isobel , Aminu Habiba , Linton Emma , White Johanna , reynolds josephine , Mitchell Caroline
Published: February 2024

Background
Although underserved populations— including those from ethnic minority communities and those living in poverty—have worse health and poorer healthcare experiences, most primary care research does not fairly reflect these groups. Patient and public involvement (PPI) is usually embedded within research studies in the United Kingdom (UK), but often fails to represent underserved populations. This study reviewed current literature and worked with patient and public contributors and local community leaders, situated in a socio-economically deprived and ethnically diverse urban area, to explore under-representation in research.
Methods
This study had two phases: a scoping review to identify theory and recommendations about engaging underserved groups in health research; two qualitative focus groups, one with a purposive sample of 6 members of a Patient and Public Involvement Group (PPIG), and one with 4 community leaders (representing black, South Asian, Roma and socio-economically deprived communities). An iterative analysis process based on template analysis was used. Focus group 1 was rapidly analysed, and a template created. Findings were presented in focus group 2, and the template further developed. In-depth analysis of both focus groups was then performed based on the template. Literature review and focus group data were triangulated using the concept of cultural trauma as a theoretical framework.
Results
Wider societal and historical influences have degraded trust in academic and healthcare institutions within underserved populations. Along with more practical considerations, trust underpins personal motivations to engage with research. Researchers need to invest time and resources in prolonged, mutually beneficial engagement with communities of importance to their research, including sharing power and influence over research priorities. Researcher reflexivity regarding differential power and cultural competencies are crucial. Utilising participatory methodologies including co-production demonstrates a commitment to inclusive study design.
Conclusions
Re-framing evidence-based medicine to be more useful and relevant to underserved populations with the highest burden of ill health is urgently needed. Lack of representation in health research reflects wider societal inequalities, but there are actions that researchers can take to widen representation. This will ultimately help achieve the goal of increased health equity by enhancing scientific rigour and research generalizability.
Transcranial brain parenchyma sonography in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy
Authors: Đorđević Ivana , Đorđević Stefan , Kosać Ana , Vučinić Dragana , Radović Nelica Ivanović , Ždraljević Mirjana , Mijajlović Milija
Published: February 2024

Introduction:
There are rising evidences that subcortical structures, including the basal ganglia, are affected in patients with epilepsy. These structures are thought to influence the modulation and phenotypic expression of epileptic seizures. Our study aimed to evaluate the presence of structural abnormalities in subcortical structures in patients with juvenile myoclonic epilepsy (JME).
Methods
This cross-sectional study included 51 patients who were diagnosed with JME and who were monitored on an outpatient basis at the Clinic for Neurology and Psychiatry for Children and Youth in Belgrade from January 1985 to October 2017. All patients underwent transcranial parenchymal sonography (TCS) from October 2015 to October 2017. Relation of clinical parameters (seizure control, cognitive functioning, and behavior) with TCS results was assessed.
Results
Hyperechogenicity of the substantia nigra (SN) was detected in 37.2% of JME subjects and it was significantly more common in patients with JME than in the control group. The marked echogenicity of the red nucleus (RN) was detected in 17.6% of cases, while 11.8% of subjects had hyperechogenic RN. The presence of hyperechogenic RN (both right and left) was significantly more frequent in the group of patients with JME compared to the control group. The third ventricle diameter was larger in patients with JME than in controls.
Conclusion
Structural changes of certain subcortical structures, primarily SN and RN, detected in JME patients indicate additional non-lesional abnormalities of the basal ganglia and midbrain structures in these patients.
The Hospital Frailty Risk Score as a Useful Inpatient Prognostic tool for Clostridioides difficile infections: A Nationwide Assessment
Authors: Kilani Yassine , Alsakarneh Saqr , Aldiabat Mohammad , Puelo Priscila Castro , Mosquera Daniel Alejandro Gonzalez , Guatam Misha , Jaber Fouad , Sohail Amir H. , Madi Mahmoud Y. , Numan Laith , Clarkston Wendell K.
Published: February 2024

Background
Data regarding the inpatient mortality, morbidity, and healthcare resource utilization of Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) among frail individuals remain limited.
Aims
We aimed to assess the Hospital Frailty Risk Score (HFRS) on the inpatient mortality, morbidity and healthcare resource utilization among CDI-related hospitalizations.
Methods
Using the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, we compared the odds of inpatient mortality and morbidity of primary CDI-related hospitalizations among individuals with LFS (low frailty scores), IFS (intermediate frailty scores), and HFS (high frailty scores).
Results
Overall, a total of 415,300 primary hospitalizations for CDI were recorded from 2016–2020. 185,950 had LFS, while 218,850 had IFS, and 10,495 had HFS. Frail individuals had a 4-7-fold increase in mortality (IFS: aOR = 4.19, 95%CI: 2.65–6.64; HFS: aOR = 6.67, 95%CI: 3.47–12.81), and were at increased odds of in-hospital morbidity (including secondary sepsis, respiratory failure, acute heart failure, AKI, dialysis use, CVA, and DVT) as compared to those with LFS. Frail individuals stayed on average 2–4 day longer, and had significantly increased healthcare expenditure, as compared to those with LFS.
Conclusion
In summary, our study presents strong evidence in support of using the HFRS as an index to predict the mortality and morbidity associated with CDI. An emphasis on prevention and early effective treatment of CDI should be implemented, especially in frail patients at risk.
The mitochondria-targeted Kaempferol nanoparticle ameliorates severe acute pancreatitis
Authors: Wen E , Cao Yi , He Shiwen , Zhang Yuezhou , You Lanlan , Wang Tingqiu , Wang Zhigang , He Jun , Feng Yi
Published: February 2024

Kaempferol (KA), an natural antioxidant of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), is extensively used as the primary treatment for inflammatory digestive diseases with impaired redox homeostasis. Severe acute pancreatitis (SAP) was exacerbated by mitochondrial dysfunction and abundant ROS, which highlights the role of antioxidants in targeting mitochondrial function. However, low bioavailability and high dosage of KA leading to unavoidable side effects limits clinical transformation. The mechanisms of KA with poor bioavailability largely unexplored, hindering development of the efficient strategies to maximizing the medicinal effects of KA. Here, we engineered a novel thioketals (TK)-modified based on DSPE-PEG2000 liposomal codelivery system for improving bioavailability and avoiding side effects (denotes as DSPE-TK-PEG2000-KA, DTM@KA NPs). We demonstrated that the liposome exerts profound impacts on damaging intracellular redox homeostasis by reducing GSH depletion and activating Nrf2, which synergizes with KA to reinforce the inhibition of inadequate fission, excessive mitochondrial fusion and impaired mitophagy resulting in inflammation and apoptosis; and then, the restored mitochondrial homeostasis strengthens ATP supply for PAC renovation and homeostasis. Interestingly, TK bond was proved as the main functional structure to improve the above efficacy of KA compared with the absence of TK bond. Most importantly, DTM@KA NPs obviously suppresses PAC death with negligible side effects in vitro and vivo. Mechanismly, DTM@KA NPs facilitated STAT6-regulated mitochondrial precursor proteins transport via interacting with TOM20 to further promote Drp1-dependent fission and Pink1/Parkin-regulated mitophagy with enhanced lysosomal degradation for removing damaged mitochondria in PAC and then reduce inflammation and apoptosis. Generally, DTM@KA NPs synergistically improved mitochondrial homeostasis, redox homeostasis, energy metabolism and inflammation response via regulating TOM20-STAT6-Drp1 signaling and promoting mitophagy in SAP. Consequently, such a TCM’s active ingredients-based nanomedicine strategy is be expected to be an innovative approach for SAP therapy.
A Saudi DOCK2-deficient patient with recurrent multiple infections including recalcitrant warts
Authors: AlKhater Suzan A. , Alsaleh Mona A. , Chevalier Rémi , Casanova Jean-Laurent , Béziat Vivien , Jouanguy Emmanuelle , Zhang Shen-Ying
Published: February 2024

Background
Since the discovery of inherited DOCK2 deficiency in 2015, the clinical and immunological phenotypes of this condition have been progressively delineated with the description of 24 cases worldwide.
Case Description:
We report the first Saudi patient, who is homozygous for a novel DOCK2 variant, c.422dup p.(Lys142Glufs*12). Like previously reported cases, the patient had early onset pervasive viral and fungal infections, live attenuated measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) and varicella vaccine-related disseminated viral infections, lymphopenia, and elevated serum IgE level. Notably, persistent cutaneous common warts were also observed in our patient, suggesting a previously unrecognized role of DOCK2 in host defense against human papillomaviruses. The wart lesions, along with the other infections, improved upon starting prophylaxis intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy. She is also maintained on anti-infectious therapy and awaits hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, pending a matching donor.
Conclusions
This patient expands the genetic and phenotypic spectrum of inherited DOCK2 deficiency.
Optimization Techniques of DFIG Controller Design for Wind Energy Conversion Systems
Authors: Bharti Om Prakash
Published: February 2024

The Doubly-Fed Induction Generator (DFIG) is suggested for Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) to extract wind power. DFIG is preferably employed due to its robustness towards variable wind and rotor speed. DFIG has the adaptable property because the system parameters are smoothly dealt with, including real power, reactive power, DC-link voltage, and the transient and dynamic responses, which are needed to analyze constantly. The analysis becomes more prominent during any unusual condition in the electrical power system. Hence, the study and improvement in the system parameters and transient response performance of DFIG are required to be accomplished using some controlling techniques. For fulfilling the task, the present work implements and compares the optimization methods for the design of the DFIG controller for WECS. The bio-inspired optimization techniques are applied to get the optimal controller design parameters for DFIG-based WECS. The optimized DFIG controllers are then used to retrieve the transient response performance of the six-order DFIG model with a step input. The results using MATLAB/Simulink show the betterment of the Firefly algorithm (FFA) over other control techniques when compared with the other controller design methods.
Exploring the Efficacy of Pembrolizumab in combination with carboplatin and weekly paclitaxel for frail patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer: A Key Investigative Study
Authors: THOMAS thomasqicm , CHAABOUNI Mohamed , HERK Anas AL , LEFEVBRE Cesar , CAVAILLON Sarah , SINOQUET Léa , POUDEROUX Stéphane , VIALA Marie , ROCA Lise , QUANTIN Xavier
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION
Immune checkpoint blockers have revolutionized the first-line treatment of advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Pembrolizumab, an anti-PD-1 monoclonal antibody, is a standard therapy either alone or in combination with chemotherapy (chemo-IO). The current study explores the efficacy and safety of pembrolizumab with carboplatin and weekly paclitaxel in a cohort of frail patient.
METHODS
A monocentric retrospective study was conducted between 09/22/2020 and 01/19/2023 regarding patient with stage IV NSCLC treated by chemo-IO combination: carboplatin (AUC 5 mg/ml/min; Q4W), weekly paclitaxel (90 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15), and pembrolizumab (200mg Q4W). The primary objective was real-world progression-free survival (rwPFS). Secondary objectives were overall survival (OS), toxicity profile, and outcomes based on histological subtype.
RESULTS
Thirty-four patients (20 squamous and 14 non-squamous NSCLC) benefited from the chemo-IO regimen for frail patients. 41.9% had an ECOG-PS = 2; median age was 75.5 years. We observed an overall response rate (ORR) of 55.9%. Notably, squamous-NSCLC exhibited a significantly higher ORR (80%) than non-squamous-NSCLC (21.4%); p=0.001. Median rw-PFS was 10.6 months (95% CI [6.0, NA]), with 6- and 12-month rw-PFS rates of 69% and 45.8%, respectively. Median OS was not reached, with 12- and 18-month OS rates of 75.6% and 61.4%, respectively. The median number of maintenance cycles of pembrolizumab was 5 (0; 27). Nine patients (26.5%) had a toxicity related to chemotherapy leading to a reduction of the dose administered; 5 patients (14.7%) to a permanent discontinuation of chemotherapy. Six patients (17.6%) had an immune-related adverse event leading to the discontinuation of immunotherapy.
DISCUSSION
Pembrolizumab plus carboplatin and weekly paclitaxel demonstrates promising efficacy and safety in frail patients with metastatic NSCLC, especially for ORR in sq-NSCLC. Prospective studies are warranted, focusing on frail populations, to validate these findings and optimize therapeutic strategies in the first-line setting.
Extracting Temporal Relationships of Chinese Events Based on Graph Representation Learning
Authors: Li Xuefeng , Zhang Guohao , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2024

The extraction of temporal relationships between events is crucial for downstream tasks such as automatic summarization and question-answering systems. Despite the impressive performance of large language models like ChatGPT in handling a wide range of tasks, extracting temporal relationships among Chinese events remains a significant challenge. Additionally, the lack of Chinese event temporal relation extraction datasets has constrained the development of this field. To address these issues, we have constructed MAND, a large-scale document-level dataset for evaluating event extraction and event temporal relation extraction. Subsequently, based on the MAND dataset, we propose a graph masking-repair method grounded in graph representation learning, which effectively captures global features and learns interdependencies among events. Furthermore, we represent coreference relationships in the document as a graph through coreference resolution and train our model using a graph masking mechanism. During the testing phase, we introduce an uncertainty calculation strategy to determine the prediction order of edges, aiming to reduce propagation errors. Experimental results demonstrate that our model outperforms previous methods in the field of Chinese event temporal relation extraction.