bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Endocrine islet β-cell subtypes with differential function are derived from biochemically distinct embryonic endocrine islet progenitors that are regulated by maternal nutrients
Authors: Gu guoqiang , Brown Monica , Agan Verda , Nevills Simone , Hu Ruiying , Simmons Alan , Xu Yanwen , Yang Yilin , Yagan Mahircan , Najam Sadia , Dadi Prasanna , Sampson Leesa , Magnuson Mark , Jacobson David , Lau Ken , Hodges Emily
Published: March 2024

Endocrine islet b cells comprise heterogenous cell subsets. Yet when/how these subsets are produced and how stable they are remain unknown. Addressing these questions is important for preventing/curing diabetes, because lower numbers of b cells with better secretory function is a high risk of this disease. Using combinatorial cell lineage tracing, scRNA-seq, and DNA methylation analysis, we show here that embryonic islet progenitors with distinct gene expression and DNA methylation produce b-cell subtypes of different function and viability in adult mice. The subtype with better function is enriched for genes involved in vesicular production/trafficking, stress response, and Ca2+-secretion coupling, which further correspond to differential DNA methylation in putative enhancers of these genes. Maternal overnutrition, a major diabetes risk factor, reduces the proportion of endocrine progenitors of the b-cell subtype with better-function via deregulating DNA methyl transferase 3a. Intriguingly, the gene signature that defines mouse b-cell subtypes can reliably divide human cells into two sub-populations while the proportion of b cells with better-function is reduced in diabetic donors. The implication of these results is that modulating DNA methylation in islet progenitors using maternal food supplements can be explored to improve b-cell function in the prevention and therapy of diabetes.
Insights to the Damaging Effects of August 7, 2020 (Mw 5.0) Mila Earthquake and Seismic Hazard Analysis of Northeast Algeria
Authors: Mouloud Hamidatou , Hallal Nassim Hallal , Lebdioui Saad , Agius Matthew R. , Sawires Rashad
Published: March 2024

Here, we present a seismic hazard evaluation for the August 7, 2020 (Mw 5.0) Mila earthquake that occurred in northeast Algeria. The study addresses the environmental factors that could contribute significantly to the highly damaging impact of this event. The following aspects were included in an interdisciplinary methodology that was adopted: the earthquake catalog, the coseismic geologic impacts with respect to the Environmental Seismic Intensity (ESI) scale standards, and estimations of peak ground acceleration values based on both probabilistic and deterministic seismic hazard approach. A comprehensive study of main and secondary impacts was performed for three districts (El-Kherba, Grareme-Gouga, and Azzeba), to obtain a good seismic intensity assessment. A PSHA- and DSHA based hazard analysis for the region concluded that the unique intensity values were related to the Modified Mercalli Intensity (MMI) and PGA distributions. Our work shows that the considered hazard estimation processes can result in very diverse values of the PGA distributions. Furthermore, PGA values frequently deviate significantly from macroseismic intensity levels derived using the ESI scale. As a result, the combination of the environmental factors attached to the hazard assessments seems to be necessary to obtain an additional accurate seismic assessment. In the final phase, seismic hazard assessment methods were applied to obtain the estimated damage distributions at the risky locations for 50 years of exposure time. The results show the importance of taking precautions to reduce earthquake casualties in vulnerable old urban centers. This work proposes a probable methodology for conducting site-specific hazard and vulnerability estimations to mitigate earthquake hazards and support risk reduction measures.
Wireless Brain Oscillation Control via Magnetoelectric Stimulation with Millisecond Precision
Authors: Cheng Chao-Chun , Chen Li-Ling , Huang Mu-Yun , Tseng Chih-Ning , Ting Yen-Jing , Tseng Guan-Jhong , Huang Jun-Xuan , Wu Chih-Hsuan , Chiang Po-Han
Published: March 2024

Electrical deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a pivotal technology in treating neurological disorders and advancing neuroscience research. Minimizing the invasiveness of conventional DBS can reduce the risk of large hardware implants. Our study introduces a novel wireless magnetoelectric neuromodulation method termed Magnetic-driven Torque-Induced Electrical Stimulation (MagTIES). Diverging from traditional magnetostriction-based magnetoelectric stimulation approaches, we utilized the torque force from magnetic nanodiscs during alternating magnetic fields (AMF) to induce a piezoelectric effect on piezoelectric nanoparticles. This technique triggered neuronal activity in vitro and in vivo at millisecond-scale temporal precision using weak AMF at slow frequency. Importantly, it allows fine-tuning brain oscillations in deep brain areas through AMF frequency adjustments. MagTIES represents a significant advancement in neuromodulation, providing a minimally invasive, transgene-free approach for precise and wireless brain activity control, with vast potential for neurological therapies and neuroscience research.
The role of voltage-gated calcium channel α2δ-1 in the occurrence and development in myofascial orofacial pain
Authors: Lu Yang , Wang Jingfu , Li Li , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: March 2024

Patients who suffer from myofascial orofacial pain could affect their quality of life deeply. The pathogenesis of pain is still unclear. Our objective was to assess Whether Voltage-gated calcium channel α2δ-1（Cavα2δ-1） is related to myofascial orofacial pain. Rats were divided into the masseter tendon ligation group and the sham group. Compared with the sham group, the mechanical pain threshold of the masseter tendon ligation group was reduced on the 4th, 7th, 10th and 14th day after operation(P<0.05). On the 14th day after operation, Cavα2δ-1 mRNA expression levels in trigeminal ganglion（TG） and the trigeminal spinal subnucleus caudalis and C1-C2 spinal cervical dorsal horn (Vc/C2) of the masseter tendon ligation group were increased (PTG=0.021, PVc/C2=0.012). Rats were divided into three groups. On the 4th day after ligating the superficial tendon of the left masseter muscle of the rats, 10 ul Cavα2δ-1 antisense oligonucleotide, 10 ul Cavα2δ-1 mismatched oligonucleotides and 10 ul normal saline was separately injected into the left masseter muscle of rats in Cavα2δ-1 antisense oligonucleotide group, Cavα2δ-1 mismatched oligonucleotides group and normal saline control group twice a day for 4 days. The mechanical pain threshold of the Cavα2δ-1 antisense oligonucleotides group was higher than Cavα2δ-1 mismatched oligonucleotides group on the 7th and 10th day after operation (P<0.01). After PC12 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide, Cavα2δ-1 mRNA expression level increased（P<0.001）. Cavα2δ-1 may be involved in the occurrence and development in myofascial orofacial pain.
sLZIP functions as a key modulator of bone remodeling by regulating the crosstalk between osteoblasts and osteoclasts
Authors: Ko Jesang , Park Sungyeon , Kim Jeonghan
Published: March 2024

Human small leucine zipper protein (sLZIP) regulates differentiation of both osteoblasts (OBs) and osteoclasts (OCs). However, the regulatory role of sLZIP in bone remodeling and its involvement in bone disorders remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of sLZIP in bone remodeling and its significance in the development of cell therapies for the treatment of bone diseases. sLZIP increased bone mass in an osteoporosis mouse model. However, bone mass was lower in mesenchymal stem cell-specific murine LZIP-1/2 knockout (Osx-LZIP-1/2fl/fl) mice than in control LZIP-1/2fl/fl mice. Osx-LZIP-1/2fl/fl mice showed delayed bone fracture healing in osteoporosis compared with control mice. Conditioned medium (CM) of OBs differentiated from adipose-derived stem cells (ADSCs) in Osx-LZIP-1/2fl/fl mice attenuated OC formation and migration of bone marrow-derived macrophages. However, CM of OCs from sLZIP transgenic mice induced OB differentiation and migration. sLZIP regulates secretion of OC-derived sphingosine-1-phosphate, which induces OB differentiation. sLZIP also regulates OB-derived WNT16, which inhibits OC differentiation. Therefore, sLZIP functions as a key modulator of the crosstalk between OBs and OCs and promotes bone remodeling and fracture healing in osteoporosis. In addition, sLZIP-overexpressing ADSCs promoted bone formation and repair in osteoporosis. sLZIP is an excellent target for the stem cell-based treatment of osteoporosis.
Nonlinear Amplification of Vesicle Membrane Concavity on the Critical Response Threshold to Biosignals
Authors: YAN Qiang , LI Xuefeng , Liang Xin , Yang Cuiqin
Published: March 2024

Polymer nanoparticles that can sharply sense and detect biological signals in cells are promising candidates for biomedical and theranostic nanomaterials. However, the response ability of current polymer assemblies poorly match the requirement of trace concentration level (10-6~10-9 mol/L) of cellular biosignals due to their linear signal input-to-function output mode, which impedes their practical applications in vivo. Here we report a kind of bowl-shaped polymer vesicle system with pH-tunable membrane invaginated morphology that can nonlinearly amplify the response abilities toward biosignals by modulating the membrane concavity. Compared to conventional spherical nanoparticles, non-spherical concave vesicles reduce the critical response threshold of polymers by up to 5 orders of magnitude, from millimole to nanomole level, covering most of biosignal concentration windows. Moreover, we find that this nonlinear signal gain effect is originated from the collective impact of a single signal on transitioning the polymer chain aggregation state of individual assemblies, rather than just altering a certain unit or chain. This nonlinear signal-to-response mechanism is potential to solve the tricky problems of probing and sensing endogenous signals with extremely low physiological concentration.
RETRACTED: Late HCC occurrence in patients achieving SVR after DAAs therapy: a matter of follow-up or something else?
Authors: Perrella Alessandro , de Sio Ilario , Bellopede Pasquale , Maddaloni Adelaide , Vitale Luigi , Rinaldi Barbara , Mormone Andrea , Izzi Antonio , Sbreglia Costanza , Bernardi Francesca , Trama Ugo , Berretta Massimiliano , Galiero Raffaele , caturano alfredo , Sasso Ferdinando , Marfella Raffaele , franci gianluigi , rinaldi luca
Published: March 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Development and evaluation of lyophilization protocol for colorimetric RT-LAMP diagnostic assay for COVID-19
Authors: Prado Nayra Olivera , Marin Anelis Maria , Lalli Larissa Araújo , Sanchuki Heloisa Bruna Soligo , Wosniaki Denise Kusma , Nardin Jeanine Marie , Morales Hugo Manoel Paz , Blanes Lucas , Zanette Dalila Luciola , Aoki Mateus Nóbrega
Published: March 2024

Molecular diagnosis involving nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) is considered an extremely functional tool. During the 2020 global health crisis, the race began to optimize the production and delivery of molecular diagnostic kits to detect SARS-CoV-2. In this period, the RT-LAMP gained attention. However, due to the thermolability of the reagents used in this technique, transport, storage, and conservation require special infrastructure at low temperatures. Such parameters limit the distribution capacity, requiring adaptations that increase the costs of the process. Thus, the present report focused on the development of a lyophilization protocol for reagents in a colorimetric RT-LAMP diagnostic kit to detect SARS-CoV-2, enabling transport and storage at room temperature. Tests were carried out to define the ideal excipients to maintain the molecular integrity of the reagents, as well as to guarantee their stability in storage and transport at room temperature. The condition chosen as adequate was the addition of 5% PEG 8,000 and 75 mM trehalose to the RT-LAMP reaction, allowing stability at room temperature for up to 28 days and showing an analytical and diagnostic sensitivity and specificity of 83.33% and 90%, respectively, for detection of SARS-CoV-2. This study provides results of lyophilized colorimetric RT-LAMP COVID-19 detection assay with a diagnostic sensitivity and specificity similar to RT-qPCR, especially in high-viral load.
Numerical and Experimental Investigation of Friction Damping in Shrouded Blades
Authors: Du Chenhong , Wang Yanrong
Published: March 2024

The blade is a critical turbine engine component that faces a high risk of high-cycle fatigue (HCF). To reduce its vibration, shrouded blades are often employed. However, the dynamic behavior of the shrouded blade is complex, making it challenging to accurately predict its damping ratio and resonance frequency. In this study, an economical experimental setup was designed, which requires only two blades to investigate the dynamic characteristics of shrouded blades. A novel method was adapted to measure the contact force and friction coefficient of the shrouds. Sinusoidal excitations were executed, and frequency response functions (FRFs) were recorded. Subsequently, study established a relationship between resonance frequency to vibrational stress using these FRFs. Additionally, the experiment was simulated by the harmonic balance method (HBM). A hysteresis spring contact model was adapted to simulate the contact of the shrouds. Vibrational stress, resonance frequency and damping ratio were computed base on the displacement outcomes from the HBM simulation. The consistency between the obtained simulation outcomes and experimental results was found to be satisfactory, indicating that the proposed approach effectively captured the complex behavior of the shrouded blades.
Indigenous Peoples’ evaluation of health risks when facing mandatory evacuation for birth during the COVID-19 pandemic: An Indigenous feminist analysis
Authors: Murdock Melanie , Campbell Erika , Durant Sarah , Couchie Carol , Meekis Carmel Theresa , Rae Charity , Kenequanash Julie , Jeyamohan Arthi Erika , Barry Jacob , Lawford Karen
Published: March 2024

Background
Indigenous Peoples living on Turtle Island are comprised of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis people and because of the Government of Canada’s mandatory evacuation policy, those living in rural and remote regions of Ontario are required to travel to urban, tertiary care centres to give birth. When evaluating the risk of travelling for birth, Indigenous Peoples understand, evaluate, and conceptualise health risks differently than Eurocentric biomedical models of health. Also, the global COVID-19 pandemic changed how people perceived risks to their health. Our research goal was to better understand how Indigenous parturients living in rural and remote communities conceptualised the risks associated with evacuation for birth before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
To achieve this goal, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 11 parturients who travelled for birth during the pandemic and with 5 family members of those who were evacuated for birth.
Results
Participants conceptualised evacuation for birth as riskier during the COVID-19 pandemic and identified how the pandemic exacerbated existing risks of travelling for birth. In fact, Indigenous parturients noted the increased risk of contracting COVID-19 when travelling to urban centres for perinatal care, the impact of public health restrictions on increased isolation from family and community, the emotional impact of fear during the pandemic, and the decreased availability of quality healthcare.
Conclusions
Using Indigenous Feminist Methodology and Indigenous Feminist Theory, we critically analysed how mandatory evacuation for birth functions as a colonial tool and how conceptualizations of risk empowered Indigenous Peoples to make decisions that reduced risks to their health during the pandemic. With the results of this study, policy makers and governments can better understand how Indigenous Peoples conceptualise risk related to evacuation for birth before and during the pandemic, and prioritise further consultation with Indigenous Peoples to collaborate in the delivery of the health and care they need and desire.
The set-up errors and influencing factors of thoracic cancer patients receiving radiotherapy in different seasons in northwest China：a real world study
Authors: Yang lin , Zhang Junxia , Liu Zixuan , Cai Rong , Yao Xiaowei , Huo Tongjun , Zhao Lina , Bai Fei
Published: March 2024

Objective: This study aims to measure the set-up errors in thoracic cancer patients undergoing VMAT radiotherapy and weekly cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and to evaluate the impact of different seasons on set-up errors.
Methods: The CBCT verification results of 168 chest tumor patients in our department from November 2019 to 2021 to January 21 were collected as winter cohort, and a total of 840 sets of off-line CBCT images were collected. CBCT verification results for 139 patients from June 2021 to August 2022, and 717 sets of off-line CBCT images were collected.then the Mann-Whitney U test was performed.The PTV margin were then calculated according to the formula MPTV=2.5Σ+ 0.7δ. Gender, age, disease type, and arm position were also included for multivariate analysis.
Results: Set-up error of summer vs.winter cohort, LR direction:1(1,2) vs.1(1,2) mm. SI direction: 2(1,3) vs. 2(1,3) mm,AP direction: 1(1,3)vs.1(1,2)mm. Rtn direction 0.3(0.1,0.55)°vs. 0.3(0.1,0.50)°. The PTV margins in the LR, SI, and AP directions were 4.18mm,4.85mm,4.59mm in the summer cohort,and 4.40mm,5.01mm,3.90mm in the winter cohort. Multivariate analysis showed that sex was statistically significant in the LR direction (b=0.164, t=1.993, p=0.048). The effect of the arm placement was statistically different in the SI direction (b= -0.46, t=4.84, P <0.001).
Conclusion: It is found that for the patients with chest tumor fixation, the set-up error in the AP direction in the winter cohort was significantly smaller than that in the summer cohort. The conventional 5mm outer release boundary from CTV to PTV is sufficient for the summer cohort, but 4mm for the AP direction of the winter cohort. In the SI direction, the set-up error of the arm placed body side is significantly smaller than the arm raised on the forehead. Female patients greater set-up error in the LR direction than in male patients.
Reliability and Reproducibility of the Venous Excess Ultrasound (VExUS) Score, A Multi-Site Prospective Study Validating a Novel Ultrasound Technique for Comprehensive Assessment of Volume Status
Authors: Longino August A , Martin Katharine C , Leyba Katarina R , Siegel Gabriel , Sharma Vibhu M , Riscinti Matthew , Lopez Carolina O , Gill Edward A
Published: March 2024

Though the novel Venous Excess Ultrasound (VExUS) score is increasingly used as a noninvasive ultrasonographic method to measure venous congestion, the inter-rater reliability (IRR) and inter-user reproducibility (IUR) of this procedure have not been established. For this reason, we conducted a multi-site study of the IRR and IUR of the VExUS score between a wide range of physicians, reporting the Kappa statistic (KS) and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) for IRR and IUR. We found that when VExUS images were interpreted by physicians specializing in cardiology, pulmonology, hospital medicine, and emergency medicine, there was substantial IRR, with a KS of 0.71 and ICC of 0.83 for the overall VExUS grade (p < 0.001), and IUR, with a KS 0.63 and ICC of 0.8, suggesting that the VExUS score is likely to be a reliable and reproducible measure interpretable by clinicians with diverse backgrounds.
Effects of dietary yeast mannan-rich fraction supplementation on growth performance, intestinal morphology, and lymphoid tissue characteristics in weaned piglets challenged with Escherichia Coli F4
Authors: Raymundo Djeison Lutier , Borges Paula Caixeta , Barbosa Kassia , Utiumi Kiyoko Uemura , Varaschin Mary , Leal Diego , Junior Sudário Silva Junior Roberto Silva , Resende Maíra , Barbosa Jessica Aparecida , Cantarelli Vinícius de Souza
Published: March 2024

We evaluated the effects of supplementing yeast mannan-reach-fraction on growth performance, jejunal morphology and lymphoid tissue characteristics in weaned piglets challenged with E. Coli F4. A total of 20 crossbred piglets were used. At weaning, piglets were assigned at random to one of four groups: piglets challenged and fed the basal diet supplemented with yeast mannan-rich fraction (C-MRF, n = 5); piglets challenged and fed the basal diet (C-BD, n = 5); piglets not challenged and fed the basal diet supplemented with yeast mannan-rich fraction (NC-MRF, n = 5), and piglets not challenged and fed the basal diet (NC-BD). Each dietary treatment had five replicates. On days 4, 5 and 10, piglets were orally challenged with 108 CFU/mL of E. Coli F4. C-MRF piglets had higher BW (p = 0.002; interactive effect) than C-BD piglets. C-MRF piglets had higher (p = 0.02; interactive effect) ADG in comparison with C-BD piglets. C-MRF piglets had higher (p = 0.04; interactive effect) ADFI than C-BD piglets. The diameter of lymphoid follicles was larger (p = 0.010; interactive effect) in the tonsils of C-MRF piglets than C-BD piglets. Lymphoid cells proliferation was greater in the mesenteric lymphnodes and ileum (p = 0.04 and p = 0.03, respectively) of C-MRF piglets. A reduction (p > 0.05) in E. Coli adherence in the ileum of piglets fed MRF was observed. In conclusion, the results of the present study demonstrate that dietary yeast mannan-rich fraction supplementation was effective in protecting weaned piglets against E. Coli F4 challenge.
Granular Mesoporous Carbon Using Soft Template as a Support for Synthesis of HDS Catalyst
Authors: soleymani maryam , Karimzadeh Ramin , Rashidi Alimorad , eslamimanesh ali
Published: March 2024

Background
This research aims to synthesize a novel granular mesoporous activated carbon (AC). The produced carbon is utilized as a support for synthesis of a catalyst of hydrodesulfurization (HDS) process of a heavy naphtha sample. The novel AC benefits from a high mechanical strength despite its mesoporous structure originating from removing the existing defects.
Methods
A combination of binders with soft template is applied on the carbon to enhance its mechanical strength and establish its mesoporous structure. Also, effects of acid modification to the binder on the mechanical properties and surface characteristics of AC are investigated. Also, a Fe-Mo catalyst is synthesized on the prepared and commercial AC, and is tested for HDS process.
Significant findings
Accordingly, the results show that the average pore size and specific surface area of AC are increased significantly. Also, results showed that use of a combination of the cellulosic binder and the organic acid leads to the creation of a mesoporous structure in carbon with an average pore size of 5.6 nm, while inorganic acid creates micropore structure. The results indicate that sulfur conversion of feed at atmospheric pressure, using the prepared catalyst, is 80% while the synthetic catalyst on commercial AC-support brings 66% conversion.
Dimorphic regulation of the MafB gene by sex steroids in hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus)
Authors: Ramos Luis
Published: March 2024

Background
MafB is a transcription factor that regulates macrophage differentiation. Macrophages are a traditional feature of the hamster Harderian gland (HG); however, studies pertaining to MafB expression in the HG are scant. Here, I cloned and sequenced the full-length cDNA of the MafB gene in adult hamsters.
Results
Molecular characterization revealed that MafB encodes a protein containing 323 amino acids with a DNA-binding domain, a transactivation domain, and a leucine zipper domain. Bioinformatic analysis of the hamster MafB sequence demonstrated 98% consistency with the mammalian group, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction assays indicated that MafB was expressed in different tissues of both sexes. The highest expression levels in endocrine tissues were identified in the pancreas. Gonadectomy in male hamsters was correlated with significantly higher mRNA levels in the HG; replacement with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) restored mRNA expression. The HG in male hamsters contained two-fold more MafB mRNA than the HG of female hamsters. Adrenals revealed similar mRNA expression levels during the estrous cycle. The estrous phase was correlated with higher mRNA levels in the ovary. Significantly up-regulated expression and sexual dimorphism of MafB was found in the pancreas.
Conclusions
MafB in the HG may play an active role in the macrophage differentiation required for phagocytosis activity and intraocular repair. Additionally, sex steroids appear to strongly influence the HG and MafB in the pancreas.
Detection of reproductive interference between closely related Salvia species with small-scale separated distributions by multifaceted pollination and molecular analyses
Authors: Nishida Sachiko , Takano Atsuko , Suyama Yoshihisa , Kakishima Satoshi
Published: March 2024

Reproductive interference, an interspecific interaction in reproductive process that exerts an adverse effect, has gained attention as a contributing factor to promoting exclusive distributions between related closely species. However, detailed studies on the possibility of reproductive interference between native plants are still wanting, presumably because strong reproductive interference can rapidly realize exclusive distributions, leaving the two species apparently independent. Salvia japonica and S. lutescens are found in separate localities at small scale, although their distributions overlap at large scale. We investigated the possibility of reproductive interference between them through field surveys, hand-pollination experiments, evaluation of hybrid fertility, cpDNA and nrDNA genotyping, and genome-wide DNA analysis. The field survey results did not reveal apparent negative interaction in competition for pollinator services. Mixed pollination with conspecific pollen and counterpart pollen reduced seed set in S. japonica, and hybrid progeny produced by mixed pollination were one-fifth or less as fertile compared to the pure species. The DNA genotyping results suggested the possibility of hybridization where their distributions overlap, and the genome-wide DNA analysis results showed clear genetic differentiation between the two species as well as the existence of hybrids. These results suggest that bi-directional reproductive interference between S. japonica and S. lutescens may have led to their present separated distributions at small scale.
Performance Analysis of Brain Tumor Classification on MRI images using Pretrained Deep Learning Models
Authors: V Manjunath R , N Yashaswini Gowda , M Manu H , Lutimath Nagaraj M
Published: March 2024

To enhance patient longevity and accurately diagnose life-threatening diseases like brain tumors, the initial step of tumor classification holds immense importance. Medical imaging technologies are instrumental in identifying pathological conditions within the brain, with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) being widely preferred due to its superior image value and non-ionizing radiation properties. The integration of deep learning, a subset of artificial intelligence, has significantly propelled the advancement of brain tumor detection from MRI scans, resulting in enhanced prediction rates. Among the various deep learning algorithms, the Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) is extensively employed for brain tumor analysis and classification. In this study, we conduct a comparative performance analysis of transfer learning-based CNN models, specifically ResNet-177 and Inception-v3, for the automatic prediction of tumor cells within the brain. The pretrained models are trained and validated using a dataset consisting of 900 images and subsequently evaluated on a separate MRI brain dataset comprising 180 images. Our research primarily focuses on leveraging the ResNet-177 and Inception v3 pretrained CNN model to accurately classify the brain tumors, and the model's performance is assessed based on metrics such as accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and F measure. The outcomes of our study demonstrate that the Inception v3 pre-trained model exhibits highly accurate results, showcasing improved accuracy rates, sensitivity, specificity, and f measure, thereby indicating its efficiency in brain tumor classification.
Graph convolutional neural networks in genetic algorithms for constrained optimization
Authors: Fujita Kohei , Yun Yeboon , Yoon Min
Published: March 2024

For constrained optimization, penalty function methods take constraint violations into account when evaluating solutions and are one of the most popular constraint handling techniques. However, the disadvantage of the penalty function is that it requires adjustment of some parameters, such as the penalty factor. To alleviate this burden of adjustment, this study proposes a self-adaptive penalty function using a graph convolutional neural network. The proposed idea considers the probability that a solution does not meet or violates constraints and is applied to suitability assessment to find solutions by genetic algorithms. Through simulation and comparison of several benchmark problems, we show that the proposed method shows good performance in that it stably finds a good solution even with a small number of function evaluations.
Elastic-Plastic Wave Propagation in Phononic Crystals
Authors: Dorgant Greg , DeLima Washingto , Leamy Michael
Published: March 2024

We investigate the propagation of plastic waves in a periodic, one-dimensional acoustic material (i.e., phononic crystal). The fundamentals of elastic and plastic wave propagation in constant cross-section, one-dimensional rods are first developed using the method of characteristics. We then utilize a semi-analytical (SA) procedure, based on the method of characteristics, to predict the propagation of plastic waves in periodic, variable cross-section rods. The SA procedure is validated using time-domain finite element simulations for both elastic and elastic-plastic waves. Subsequently, we pose a phononic crystal with a dogbone-like unit cell geometry, analyze its elastic band structure, and then predict its performance at elastic and plastic amplitudes using the developed semi-analytical procedure. We pay particular attention to bandgap effects, a well-known characteristic of phononic crystals, and study the effect elastic bandgaps have on plastic wave propagation and associated residual strains. The study lays the groundwork for investigation of pulse shaping in plastic phononic crystals, a subject of interest for applications related to split Hopkinson bar testing.
Age and growth of the tiger shark, Galeocerdo cuvier (Péron & Lesueur, 1822) from the equatorial South Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Silva Francisco Marcante Santana da , Lessa Rosangela , Afonso André , Hazin Fábio , Barreto Rodrigo
Published: March 2024

Age and growth in the tiger shark, Galeocerdo cuvier, were estimated from vertebral analysis of specimens collected in Brazil. A total of 221 sharks (82 to 426.3 cm total length - LT) were measured, and among these sharks, vertebrae were collected from 67 individuals, and more 9 of embryos (68 - 77 cm LT) were added to total sample for analysis. Monthly mean marginal increment and the frequency of opaque rings in the edge of vertebrae did not allow the observation of periodicity; nonetheless, growth bands were considered to be annual. No significant differences in size, age or growth were found between sexes. Based on the Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), the von Bertalanffy model was the most adequate to describe the growth of G. cuvier. The estimated parameters for both sexes were: L∞ = 401.2 cm LT, k = 0.255 year-1 and t0 = -1.08 years. The age of sampled individuals ranged between 0 and 13.5 years, with sexual maturation being estimated at 310 cm LT or 4.7 years. Overall, the species exhibited rapid growth, particularly during the juvenile stage. Differences in sizes and ages were found in specimens suggesting an ontogenetic habitat shift from coastal to oceanic waters.
Bringing the Computer-Based instrument for Low motor Language Testing to Canada: A survey of caregiver and clinician perspectives
Authors: Costigan F. Aileen , Chau Tom , Geytenbeek Johanna , Stadskleiv Kristine , Batorowicz Beata , Hopmans Sarah , McCauley Dayle , Grahovac Danijela , Agnew Brenda , Friesen Jodi , Cunningham BJ
Published: March 2024

Background: Accurate assessment of language comprehension is crucial to positive outcomes for children with cerebral palsy (CP) and limited functional speech (LFS). This study describes Canadian caregivers’ and clinicians’ language comprehension assessment experiences and needs when working with these children prior to soliciting feedback on the Computer-Based instrument for Low motor Language Testing (C-BiLLT-CAN), a new validated standardized assessment tool, to support its implementation in Canada.
Materials and Methods: We conducted an environmental scan using surveys codesigned by the research team, including rehabilitation professionals, and families with lived experiences. Surveys collected quantitative and qualitative data from 22 caregivers of and 39 clinicians who provided services to children with CP and LFS.
Results: Most caregivers (n = 17; 77%) and clinicians (n= 26; 72%) had experienced language comprehension assessment. Experienced caregivers and clinicians highlighted the importance of accurate language comprehension assessment but had limited confidence in current practices that typically rely on informal tools (i.e., clinical observation, caregiver interview, informal questions) (n= 25-26; 96 – 100 %). Qualitative comments identified a need for population specific test/testing procedures and/or associated normative data. Participants identified that the C-BiLLT-CAN would have a significant impact on children with CP and LFS, with most clinicians (n = 15; 71%) anticipating at least a moderate effect on practice. Perceived benefits of the C-BiLLT-CAN included improved interaction with, participation for, and understanding of the abilities of these children; improved services including better language comprehension assessment procedures and results; and improved interventions and outcomes for these children and their families. Participants indicated that currently available response methods could be improved by including joystick, contact access, orofacial access, brain-computer interface, and vocalization and/or humming based access and by supporting visual and auditory access modifications to promote customization to the needs of individual children.
Conclusions: The C-BiLLT-CAN could fill a critical gap in services available to Canadian children with CP and LFS. Caregivers and clinicians recognized the importance and potential benefits of a reliable standardized language comprehension assessment for this population but indicated the need for additional response methods and features to support access and implementation in Canada.
Phylogenetic analysis and divergence time estimation of Lycium species in China based on the chloroplast genomes
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhang Erdong , Wei Yuqing , Zheng Guoqi
Published: March 2024

Background: Lycium is an economically and ecologically important genus of shrubs, consisting of approximately 70 species distributed worldwide, 15 of which are located in China. Despite the economic and ecological importance of Lycium, its phylogeny, interspecific relationships, and evolutionary history remain relatively unknown. In this study, we constructed a phylogeny and estimated divergence time based on the chloroplast genomes (CPGs) of 15 species, including subspecies, of the genus Lyciumfrom China.
Results: We sequenced and annotated 15 CPGs in this study. Comparative analysis of these genomes from these Lycium species revealed a typical quadripartite structure, with a total sequence length ranging from 154,890 to 155,677 base pairs (bp). The CPGs was highly conserved and moderately differentiated. Through annotation, we identified a total of 128–132 genes. Analysis of the boundaries of inverted repeat (IR) regions showed consistent positioning: the junctions of the IRb/LSC region were located in rps19 in all Lycium species, IRb/SSC between the ycf1 and ndhF genes, and SSC/IRa within the ycf1 gene. Sequence variation in the SSC region exceeded that in the IR region. We did not detect major expansions or contractions in the IR region or rearrangements or insertions in the CPGs of the 15 Lycium species. Comparative analyses revealed five hotspot regions in the CPG: trnR(UCU), atpF-atpH, ycf3-trnS(GGA), trnS(GGA), and trnL-UAG, which could potentially serve as molecular markers. In addition, phylogenetic tree construction based on the CPG indicated that the 15 Lycium species formed a monophyletic group and were divided into two typical subbranches and three minor branches. Molecular dating suggested that Lycium diverged from its sister genus approximately 17.7 million years ago (Mya) and species diversification within the Lycium species of China primarily occurred during the recent Pliocene epoch.
Conclusion: The divergence time estimation presented in this study will facilitate future research on Lycium, aid in species differentiation, and facilitate diverse investigations into this economically and ecologically important genus.
Correlation of Levator Palpebrae Superioris and Dry Eye Disease
Authors: Kim Eun Chul , So Ha-Rim , Kim Sung Eun , Yang Suk-Woo
Published: March 2024

Purpose: To evaluate the effect of levator palpebrae superioris in patients with dry eye disease.
Methods: 168 eyes of 84 patients (group 1= levator function ≤9 mm, 78 eyes; group 2= levator function >9 mm, 90 eyes) who have been diagnosed with ptosis were retrospectively enrolled. Levator function test, Ocular Surface Disease Index Questionnaire (OSDI), Schirmer I test, noninvasive tear break up time (NItBUT), corneal staining score, meibography, meibum quality and expressibility scores, tear meniscus height, and partial blinking rate (PBR) were examined.
Results: PBR and NItBUT in group 2 (9.29 ± 4.01 and 4.76 ± 2.39, respectively) were significantly worse than those in group 1 (5.88 ± 3.99 and 5.78 ± 2.94, respectively) (P<0.05). There was a significantly positive correlation between levator function and partial blinking rate (R=0.4114, P=0.0002). Meibum expressibility and lipid thickness in group 2 (0.48 ± 0.70 and 1.12 ± 0.33, respectively) were significantly better than those in group 1 (1.29 ± 0.65 and 1.39 ± 0.45, respectively) (P<0.05) (Figure 3). There was a significantly negative correlation between levator function and meibum expressibility grade (R=0.4114, P=0.0002) (Figure 2).
Conclusion: The eyes with good levator function showed shorter tear break-up time due to a higher partial blinking rate, but showed better lipid thickness due to better meibum expressibility compared with the eyes with fair levator function.
Bilateral visual impairment in a middle-aged female after bariatric surgery, A case report
Authors: Wang Da-Hu , Pan Chen-Hui , Liu Xin-Quan
Published: March 2024

Background: Nutritional optic neuropathy (NON) is a rare eye disease, similar to toxic optic neuropathy and hereditary optic neuropathy, meaning that it is easily misdiagnosed at early-stage. This report described a rare case of optic neuropathy due to nutritional deficiency following bariatric surgery.
Case presentation: A 44-year-old female patient presented to our department complaining for blurred vision in the left eye for 2 years, accompanied by blurred vision in the right eye for 6 months, who performed bariatric surgery in 2007. Upon examination, her best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) was 20/50 in the right eye and 20/200 in the left eye. Intraocular pressure (IOP) was 17 mmHg in the right eye and 16 mmHg in the left eye. Anterior segment examination of both eyes was unremarkable, and a intraocular lens (IOL) was observed with a left relative afferent pupillary defect (RAPD). Color fundus photography showed the optic disc structure of both eyes was basically normal. However, the OCT-macula showed diffuse thinning of the ganglion cell layer. Visual field testing demonstrated a noticeable central scotoma in both eyes. Laboratory findings included abnormal blood potassium, vitamin D2, vitamin D3, and vitamin B7. Other parameterssuch as vitamin B12 and folate showed basical normalities. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of brain and orbits revealed no apparent abnormalities. In addition, visual evoked potentials of both eyes was basically normal. The medical history included nutritional disorders, anaemia and electrolyte disturbance, and her BMI was 16.0 kg/m²at present. Therefore, a clinical diagnosis of NON was made. After 6 weeks of treatment with nutrition supplements, the BCVA was 20/20 in the right eye and 20/25 in the left eye, and the central scotoma in both eyes also improved significantly.
Conclusions: NON was a rare eye disease in clinical practice, but the medical history along with systemic and fundus examinations could help establish the diagnosis. Timely treatment is crucial for maximizing visual outcomes.
A Mn 3 O 4 -based antioxidant nanoplatform loaded with Tacrolimus to ameliorate chronic kidney disease by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress
Authors: Wang Qin , Nie Xuedan , Song Yifan , Chen Liting , Zhu He , Zhang Xueli , Yang Mengru , Xu Xiaohui , Chen Peidan , Zhang Chao , Xu Jia , Ren Yeping , Shang Wenting
Published: March 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is one of the most common diseases in the world and an important public health problem that endangers human health. Its pathogenesis is related to the accumulation of excessive ROS in cells. In this study, an ultra-small nanopreparations (NPs) called C-Mn3O4@Tac was provided, which is prepared using citric acid-functionalized Mn3O4 NPs loaded with tacrolimus. This innovative formulation design takes advantage of the ROS clearance ability of Mn3O4 NPs that mimics enzymatic activity in a dark environment and the immunosuppressive capacity of tacrolimus, and enables targeted accumulation in the renal region and sustained drug release through enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. It not only avoids the side effects caused by high-dose drugs or sudden release, but also prolongs the dosing cycle and improves the efficacy to a certain extent. C-Mn3O4@Tac protects the structural and functional integrity of mitochondria from oxidative damage, removes excess ROS in cells to maintain cellular redox homeostasis, inhibits the overexpression of pro-inflammatory cytokines to restore kidney function and maintain normal kidney structure by reducing inflammation and regulating antioxidant stress pathways. This unique working mechanism of ultra-small redox nano-platform with the ability to reduce inflammation and regulate antioxidative stress provides a potentially more effective treatment for CKD patients. This two-pronged treatment strategy also provides new strategies for the treatment of CKD and demonstrates its great potential for clinical translational application.
The combined effect of controlling nutritional status increase and activities of daily living impairment on 12-month mortality of older adults after hip fracture: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Ying , Guo Ying , Tong Gang , He Yu , Zhang Ruihua , Liu Qi
Published: March 2024

Objective
We aimed to explore the combined effect of nutritional status and functional autonomy was associated with all-cause mortality of older adults with hip fracture patients in the first year after hospitalization.
Methods
This is a single-center retrospective cohort study in older adults with hip fracture patients. Clinical data and laboratory results were collected from electronic medical record system of our hospital (2014–2021). The endpoint of this study was all-cause mortality in the first year after hospitalization.
Results
A total of 303 older adults were enrolled and all-cause mortality was 21.8%. Compared with patients who were alive at 1 year, those who died were older, had less body mass index (BMI), activities of daily living (ADL), hemoglobin, lymphocytes, total protein, albumin, triglycerides and total cholesterol. They also had higher age, C-reactive protein (CRP) and Controlling nutritional status (CONUT) score. Multivariable Cox analysis showed that BMI, ADL and CONUT were independent risk factors for all-cause mortality of hip fracture in elderly (HR (95% CI):2.808(1.638, 4.814), P < 0.001; 2.862(1.637, 5.003), P < 0.001; 2.322(1.236, 4.359), P = 0.009, respectively). More importantly, the combined index of CONUT and ADL had the best predictive performance based on ROC curve (AUC 0.785, 95% CI: 0.734–0.830, P < 0.0001). Kaplan-Meier survival curves for all-cause mortality showed that patients with CONUT increase and ADL impairment had a higher mortality rate at 1 year compared to CONUT decrease and ADL well (Log Rank χ2 = 45.717, P < 0.0001).
Conclusions
Combined index of CONUT increase and ADL impairment has good clinical value in assessing 1-year postoperative prognosis in older adults after hip fracture.
Design and Simulation of a Novel Avalanche Photodiode Utilizing Field Effect Diode Structure
Authors: Sharafi F. , Alaei-Sheini N. , Soroosh M.
Published: March 2024

This research introduces a novel avalanche photodiode that addresses certain issues in existing avalanche photodiodes. The proposed device combines a basic pin-photodiode and a field effect diode, along with a multiplication layer. Through simulations, it has exhibited favorable optical and electrical characteristics. These include a responsivity of 71.2 A/W, an efficiency of 73.5%, a detectivity of 2×1010 √(cm.Hz)/W, and a low noise equivalent power of 7×10–14 W/√Hz. The device demonstrates peak responsivity at a wavelength of approximately 450 nm, indicating its potential as an optical detector for visible light applications.
The role of shame and self-consciousness in the relationship between attachment and paranoia in an Iranian sample: A moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Amini-Fasakhoudi Maryam , Karsazi Hossein , Masjedi-Arani Abbas , Vand Hoda Doos Ali , Kianimoghadam Amir Sam
Published: March 2024

Background
Early life experiences increase vulnerability to paranoid thoughts, and attachment theory has been used as a conceptual framework to explain this causal pathway. The purpose of this study was to identify and highlight the mediating and moderating mechanisms in the relationship between attachment styles and paranoia in a non-clinical sample.
Method
The current research was a cross-sectional design. A sample of 331 university students was collected by available and online sampling at a period of 3 months. They completed the Paranoia scale (PS), Relationship scales questionnaire (RSQ), Internal and External Shame Scale (EISS), and Self-consciousness scale (SCS). Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, correlation coefficients, and Process Macro.
Results
The results showed that avoidant and anxious attachment was related to paranoia and shame mediates this relationship. On the other hand, self-consciousness as a buffering moderated and weakened the relationship between attachment and paranoia.
Conclusion
The present study provided preliminary evidence for the mediating and moderating roles of shame and self-consciousness in the relationship between attachment and paranoia.