bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The chloroplast genome of two medicinal species (Veronica anagallis-aquatica and Veronica unulata) and its comparative analysis with related Veronica species
Authors: Hai Yonglin , Qian Yan , Yang Meihua , Zhang Yue , Xu Huimei , Yang Yongcheng , Xia Conglong
Published: January 2024

Veronica anagallis-aquatica L and Veronica unulata Wall are widely used ethnomedicinal plants in China. The two species have different clinical efficacies, while their extremely similar morphology and unclear interspecific relationship makes it difficult to accurately identify them, leading to increased instances of mixed usage. This article reports on the complete genome sequence of chloroplasts of these two species and their related veronica species to conduct a comparative genomics analysis and phylogenetic construction. The results showed that the chloroplast (cp) genomes of Veronica exhibited typical circular tetrad structures, with total lengths of 149,386 to 152,319 bp, and GC content of 37.9 to 38.1%, and the number of genes was 129–134. The total number of simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in V. anagallis-aquatica and V. unulata is 37 and 36, while V. arvensis had the highest total number of SSRs (56), mainly consisting of A/T single bases. The vast majority of long repeat sequence types are forward repeats and palindromic repeats. Selective pressureanalysis showed that 3 genes were under positive selection. Sequence differences often occur in the non-coding regions of the large single-copy region (LSC) and small single-copy region (SSC), with the lowest sequence variation in the inverted repeat regions (IR). Seven highly variable regions (trnT-GGU-psbD, rps8-rpl16, trnQ-UUG, trnN-GUU-ndhF, petL, ycf3, and ycf1) were detected, which may be potential molecular markers for identifying V. anagallis-aquatica and V. unulata The phylogenetic tree indicates that there is a close genetic relationship between the genera Veronica and Neopicrorhiza, and V. anagallis-aquatica and V. unulata are sister groups. The chloroplast genome data of nine Veronica species provides important insights into the characteristics and evolution of the chloroplast genome of this genus, as well as the phylogenetic relationship of the genus Veronica.
Co-occurrence of posterior chest wall pilonidal sinus with melanocytic nevus: a challenging presentation: a case report
Authors: Salih Abdulwahid M. , kakamad Fahmi Hussein , Muhialdeen Aso S. , Zahir Hardi M. , Saeed Yadgar A. , Ali Halkawt O. , Ahmad Sara N. , Hassan Marwan N. , Hassan Shko H. , Mohammed Mohammed Subhan
Published: January 2024

Introduction
To date, only a limited number of case reports have documented the co-occurrence of PNS and melanocytic nevus in the medical literature. This study aims to report an exceptionally rare case of posterior chest wall PNS in conjunction with a melanocytic nevus.
Case presentation
A 46-year-old female presented with a long-standing black lesion on her left upper posterior chest wall, that had become painful in the two months prior to presentation. There was a painful, dark blue, non-erythematous, and non-tender nodule on the left upper posterior chest wall. Based on the patient’s desire for cosmetic purposes, the lesion was excised totally with primary closure under local anesthesia. Histopathological examination revealed intradermal melanocytic nevus with inflamed pilonidal sinus.
Discussion
The rarity of posterior chest wall PNS associated with nevi poses unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges for clinicians. The distinct anatomical location, different from the conventional region, and the rare association between the two conditions may delay accurate diagnosis and result in mismanagement or inappropriate interventions.
Conclusion
The posterior chest wall PNS is another type of atypical PNS that is extremely rare. The association between PNS and blue nevus is a fascinating medical finding that deserves further investigation.
Rapid foliar uptake of inorganic and amino acid nitrogen in three dryland plant species
Authors: Cort Catherine E. , Stricker Eva , Crain-Wright Grace M. , Darrouzet-Nardi Anthony
Published: January 2024

Background and aims
Dryland primary production is often nitrogen (N) limited due in part to spatiotemporal decoupling of soil nutrient availability and plant uptake. Our aim is to quantify inorganic and organic N uptake at daily timescales to compare short-term nutrient acquisition patterns among dryland plant species.
Methods
We assessed N uptake in three commonly co-occurring perennial plant species from a Chihuahuan Desert grassland (a C4 grass, C3 grass, and C3 subshrub). In the greenhouse, we applied 15N-ammonium, nitrate, or glutamate tracers to plant roots and quantified uptake and recovery in leaves after 12, 24, and 48 h.
Results
Plants took up inorganic and amino acid N to leaves as rapidly as 12 h following application, and uptake more than doubled between 24 and 48 h. Inorganic N uptake was 3-4x higher than glutamate in all three species, and plants took up ammonium and nitrate at 2-3x faster rates overall. On average, Bouteloua eriopoda had the highest inorganic N recovery and uptake rates, while Gutierrezia sarothrae had the highest glutamate uptake over time. Achnatherum hymenoides uptake was ~ 50% lower than the other two species after 48 h.
Conclusion
Plants showed similar patterns of short-term foliar uptake and recovery indicating a lack of niche partitioning by N form among the three dryland species measured. Our results suggest that soil inorganic N, particularly nitrate, may comprise a greater proportion of plant N nutrition than amino acid-N and may be more widely exploited following a precipitation pulse in this habitat.
Poly (aniline-co-aniline-2,5-disulfonic acid) / L-ascorbic acid / Ag@SiO2 / polysafranin nanocomposite: Synthesis, characterization and anomalous electrical behaviour
Authors: Hassan Hammed , Fattah Marwa Abdel , Maged Fatma Abdel
Published: January 2024

It is well known that modification of polymer properties by incorporating organic dyes usually improves the conductivity; however, the oxidation of safranin dye itself or its blended material impairs the conductivity. In this paper, we report a new finding that the incorporation of the safranin dye with our recently reported sulfonated polyaniline/Ag@SO2 nanocomposite, prepared under modified conditions, achieved better conductivity after heating. The d.c conductivity of the organic oligomer itself varied from 0.06 to 0.016 (s/cm) and that of the composite from 0.008 to 0.016 (s/cm), respectively, with an increasing temperature of up to 363 K and then decreased at 393 K. The material changed from a semiconductor to a metallic nature, and their d.c conductivities were comparable to those of many commercial inorganic or organic composites. The frequency dependence of the permittivity, e¢, showed a remarkable effect on the frequency window under consideration. e¢ was independent of the increment in the frequency and this behaviour confirmed the presence of electrode polarization and space-charge effects. This result, on account of their attractive electrical properties we suggest, is promising for electronic field applications.
Site-scale soil conditions influencing the decline of Aleppo pine stands in Mediterranean Spanish woodland
Authors: SANZ VALENTIN GOMEZ , González Aitor Gastón , Viñas Juan Ignacio García , Hierro Rafael Serrada
Published: January 2024

• Background and Aims. Vegetative decline in individuals of plant populations is a phenomenon that involves multiple factors, both biotic and abiotic, that lead to highly irregular and complex spatial patterns of mortality at stand or forest scale. Although it might be assumed that site soil conditions are a predisposing factor to this phenomenon, very little research has specifically focused on this aspect, hence the lack of knowledge in this regard is evident. • Methods. Soil characterization was carried out at 20 sites (10 with evidence of decline and another 10 with no signs of decline) and the results were related to their role as modulation factor of the drought effects, which is the main cause of the observed decline in Aleppo pine stands in the Comunidad Valenciana (Spain). • Results. The soil properties which were found to be the most explanatory are those associated with soil quality in terms of available space for root exploration, which is vital for nutrition and, above all, water uptake. Episodes of decline are associated with stands where soils present a shallow effective depth due to a low degree of profile development or through marked textural anisotropy because of particularly clayey horizons that cause abrupt changes in permeability and aeration. • Conclusion. The inherent soil diversity acts as a predisposing driver to this physiological process that generates a heterogeneous spatial mosaic of patches with different degrees of decline.
Effect of nano-silica surface-capped by bis[3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl] tetrasulfide on the cure behaviors, mechanical properties, swelling resistance and microstructure of styrene-butadiene rubber/acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber nanocomposites
Authors: K Karthikeyan , Damodaran Ajith , Vishvanathperumal S.
Published: January 2024

In an in-situ surface modification method, nano-silica (NS) was treated with bis[3-(triethoxysilyl)propyl]tetrasulfide (Si69, often referred to as TESPT), a commercially available SCA (silane coupling agent). This produced surface-functionalized NS, also known as modified nanosilica (mNS). The influence of using this mNS as a filler in acrylonitrile-butadiene rubber/styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR/NBR) composites was examined in this study. The results show that the silanol groups in TESPT form chemical connections with the surface of the NS, which significantly increases the rubber-matrix nanocomposite's curing efficiency and improves its mechanical properties. The reason for this enhancement is the in-situ surface modification of the NS by the SCA, which significantly raises the filler's miscibility and compatibility with the rubber matrix.
Comprehensive Evaluation Method and Full Cycle Prediction of Aging Performance of Polymer Materials
Authors: Yuan Wang , Yiquan Zhao , Tengfei Bi , Jinghan Dong
Published: January 2024

Polymer materials are increasingly used in the automotive field, and it is of great significance to study the aging characteristics of polymer materials. However, the cost of comprehensive aging of polymer materials is high and does not have universal properties, while the key models predicted by polymer materials comprehensive aging indicators are rarely studied.This article uses 25 day sunlight simulation test data of two plastics, PP and ASA, based on the analysis of plastic sheet aging behavior and the mechanism of environmental effects on PP and ASA plastics, Explore the correlation between the aging properties of PP and ASA plastics. Through principal component analysis and approximate ideal solution ranking, several aging indexes are reduced into comprehensive aging values, and the aging resistance of PP and ASA plastics is compared. By using the least square method, the aging curves of PP and ASA plastics with different properties under different sunlight simulation durations were predicted, and the aging values of PP and ASA plastics on the 30th day were compared with the measured values. The results show that the hardness, tensile strength, and bending strength have high repeatability. The aging performance of ASA plastic calculated by the TOPSIS method is better than that of PP plastic. The predicted aging values of PP and ASA plastics on the 30th day are within 2% of the measured values, which greatly saves testing cost.
Effect of Plasma Activated Water on Peanut Seed Germination, Seedling Biomass, Morphology, and Gene Expression
Authors: Priatama Ryza A. , Yang Taewon , Lee Seung-Won , Kim Kibum , Hwang Hyunjoo , Kim Yerin , Oh Yoojin , Kim Myoung-Shin , Lee Young Koung , Ko Kisung
Published: January 2024

Plasma-activated water (PAW) has been shown to enhance seed germination and seedling growth across various plants. This study investigates the impact of PAW on peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) seed germination, viability, growth and gene expression in sprouts. Seeds were treated with PAW for 0, 40, and 80 minutes and sown in fermented oak sawdust. Germination rate, weight, length, and seedling vigor index were assessed. Among the different PAW treatments, the longest true leaf with epicotyl and the longest hypocotyl were observed in PAW80 (7.3 cm and 3.1 cm, respectively). Specifically, the root length was observed the longest in PAW80 (10.4 cm). The PAW80 had the highest vigor index (1385.1), followed by PAW40 (1048.7). Gene ontology analysis revealed that shoot growth related gene expression in PAW40 and PAW80 peanut groups relatively higher than PAW 0 group. Overall, PAW80 provided the most favorable conditions for peanut sprout growth, promoting shoot-growth related gene expression. Our findings suggest that PAW positively affects peanut and seedling growth by the regulation of shoot promoting genes.
Improving the Perception of Objects under Foggy Conditions in the Surrounding Environment
Authors: Chaar Mohamad Mofeed , Raiyn Jamal , Weidl Galia
Published: January 2024

Autonomous Driving (AD) technology has rapidly advanced in recent years. Some challenges remain, particularly in ensuring robust performance under adverse weather conditions, like heavy fog. To address this, we propose a multi-class fog density classification approach to enhance the performance of AD systems. By dividing the fog density into multiple classes (25\%, 50\%, 75\%, and 100\%) and generating separate data-sets for each class using the Carla simulator, we can independently improve perception for each fog density and examine the effects of fog at each level. This approach offers several advantages, including improved perception, targeted training, and enhanced generalizability. The results show improved perception of objects from the categories: cars, buses, trucks,
vans, pedestrians, and traffic lights. Our multi-class fog density approach is a promising step towards achieving robust AD system performance under adverse weather conditions.
Assessment of the Effects of Tongjiang Granule in Treating Nonerosive Reflux Disease Overlapping Epigastric Pain Syndrome: Study protocol for a multicenter, double-blind, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lv Mi , Hu Jiayan , Zhang Kunli , Zhang Min , Yu Wenxi , Wang Yuxi , Qiao Xiyun , Wang Xiaokang , Che Hui , Xue Hong , Huang Kaiyue , Lv Lin , Wang Fengyun
Published: January 2024

Background
Practice has shown good efficacy in treating overlapping nonerosive reflux disease (NERD) and epigastric pain syndrome (EPS) symptoms through the use of methods for dispersing the liver and draining heat, harmonizing the stomach and lowering rebelliousness, however, there is a lack of high-level clinical evidence. We intend to evaluate the efficacy and safety of a representative formula of this approach, Tongjiang Granule (TJG), in patients with NERD and EPS symptoms overlapping with liver-stomach disharmony syndrome or liver-stomach depression-heat syndrome (NE-LSDS/LSDHS) in a multicenter clinical randomized controlled trial.
Methods/design:
This study is designed as a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in which 228 subjects with NE-LSDS/LSDHS will be recruited from 4 research centers. All subjects will be randomized into two groups after signing the informed consent form, the experimental group will be treated with TJG and the control group will be treated with the placebo to mimic TJG (l sachet/dose, 3 times/day, orally, 4 weeks). Visits is scheduled at 6 time points, 2 weeks before dosing and weeks 2, 4, 6, 8, and 10 after dosing. The primary outcome indicator will be the primary symptoms VAS score, the secondary outcome indicators will be the score of atypical and other symptoms, score of traditional Chinese medicine syndrome, visceral sensitivity index scale, patient-reported outcome scale, 36-item short-form scale, and hospital anxiety and depression scale. The safety indicators will include pre- and postdose blood, urine routine, stool routine with occult blood, liver and renal function, electrocardiogram, 24-hour esophageal pH impedance (1/3 of subjects), predose urine pregnancy test, and gastroscopy. Adverse events will also be promptly recorded.
Discussion
This study will evaluate the efficacy and safety of TJG for the treatment of patients with NE-LSDS/LSDHS, and the results will provide high-level clinical research-based evidence for the application of TJG NE-LSDS/LSDHS.
Trial registration:
ClinicalTrial.gov NCT05312463. Registered on 3 March 2022. All items from the World Health Organization Trial Registration Data Set can be found at https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05312463.
Mechanism of Jinlida regulating microRNA-802 and insulin sensitivity in HepG2 cells exposed to palmitic acid
Authors: 甄 云凤 , 齐 翠娟 , 张 志梅 , 杨 立群 , 唐 勇
Published: January 2024

AIM To explore the effect of Jinlida on microRNA-802 (miR-802) and insulin sensitivity in HepG2 cells interfered with 0.25mmol/L PA. After the modeling, interfered with Jinlida or transfected with miR-802-mimic, the divided experimental groups was as follows: control group (Con), PA group (PA), PA group interfered with Jinlida, Jinlidagroup transfected with miR-802-mimic (miR-802-mimic), Jinlida group transfected with negative control ( NC). The expression level of miR-802 mRNA was detected by RT-PCR methods to determine whether the transfection is successful or not. The expression of protein kinase beta (Akt), phospho-Akt (p-Akt), glycogen synthase kinase -3β(GSK-3β) and phospho- GSK-3β (p- GSK-3β) were determined by western blot.
RESULTS Compared with control group, the mRNA expression of miR-802 were significantly increased（P＜0.05）, the protein of p-Akt/Akt and p-GSK-3β/GSK-3βwere significantly decreased（P＜0.05）. Compared with PA group, the mRNA expression of miR-802 was decreased（P＜0.05）, and the protein of p-Akt/Akt and p-GSK-3β/GSK-3βwere increased in PA+JLD group（P＜0.05）. Compared with NC group and PA+JLD group, the mRNA expression of miR-802 was significantly increased（P＜0.05）, and the protein of p-Akt/Akt and p-GSK-3β/GSK-3β were significantly increased in PA+JLD+miR-802-mimic group（P＜0.05）.
CONCLUSION JLD might through miR-802 regulating the insulin resistance and glycogen synthesis in the liver, which may be a potential theoretical basis for type 2 diabetes therapy.
Comparison of cardiac function and structure after left atrial appendage occlusion without versus with ablation in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation: a retrospective study
Authors: Ruan Zhong-bao , Wang Fei , Chen Ge-cai , Zhu Jun-guo , Ren Yin , Zhu Li
Published: January 2024

Background
Regarding the physiology role of left atrial appendage (LAA), whether occlusion of LAA or combined with ablation has any influence on cardiac function and structure in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) is still unclear.
Aims
To compare the influence on cardiac function and structure after left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) without versus with ablation in patients with NVAF.
Methods
157 patients with NVAF who underwent LAAO or combined with ablation were included and divided into Simple LAAO group or Combined group. Long term impact on cardiac function and structure between the two groups were compared.
Results
There was a significant decrease of left atrial anteroposterior diameter (LAAD) at 6 months and a significant increase of left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD) at 12 months after LAAO. A significant decrease in plasma N-terminal pro-brain natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) was noted at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after LAAO. Subgroup analysis indicated that there was a significant decrease of LAAD, LVEDD, LVESD and NT-proBNP levels in Combined group at 3 months, 6 months and 12 months post-procedure, while an increase of LVEF. However, no significant change of LAAD, LVEDD, LVESD, NT-proBNP and LVEF was seen in Simple LAAO group at 3 months follow-up, but a decrease of NT-proBNP during 6 months and 12 months follow-up. Compared with Simple LAAO group, Combined group was associated with a significant increase of residual flow.
Conclusions
LAAO has no significant effect on cardiac structure and function but can significantly reduce NT-proBNP. The improvement of cardiac structure and function in combined therapy comes from the influence of ablation, not LAAO.
Materials Selection and Fashion Design: strengthening reflections on fibre’s nature in fibres and textiles selection.
Authors: Mazzitelli Melissa , Papile Flavia , Curto Barbara Del
Published: January 2024

Textile ecosystems are complex productive realities, in the eye of the cyclone when it comes sustainability-related analysis. Being characterised by very complex value-chains and interconnection of productive actors, textiles production and use represent one of the most crucial challenges for the circular and sustainable transition. Their deployment is esteemed to be in growing for the next years, therefore reflections on how to improve product and materials circularity in this sector is of increasing interest in research and industrial practice. In this contribution, authors will try to map the material properties that can influence textiles application in the fashion sector, focusing on the coupling of material selection activity and application of design strategies to anticipate at best the reflections upon textiles use and recirculation. Results of this activity are then shown and discussed to question the applicability of the reported data into a fashion design activity, to promote awareness and critical reflections upon materials use while designing new fashion goods.
The relationships between blood lead level and nocturia prevalence in US adults
Authors: Wang Junwei , Zhang Cunming , Wang Xin , Zhang Aiwei
Published: January 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to examine the association between blood lead level and the prevalence of nocturia in a representative sample of American civilians living outside of institutions.
Methods
We analyzed data from eight National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) survey cycles spanning from 2005 to 2020, focusing on individuals aged 20 years or older (n = 11,919). Blood lead level was categorized into two groups (< 2 µg/dL and ≥ 2 µg/dL), and the presence of nocturia was assessed based on questionnaire responses. We used multivariable logistic regression models to explore the association between blood lead level and nocturia while adjusting for various covariates, including sex, ratio of family income to poverty (RIP), lipid profile, age, body mass index (BMI), race, citizenship, sleep trouble, diabetes, and hypertension. In order to acknowledge the variation in baseline data regarding the prevalence of nocturia, subgroup analyses were performed.
Results
Among the study participants, 31.70% reported experiencing nocturia. Nocturia showed significant variations among different demographic and health-related factors. Individuals with higher blood lead level (≥ 2 µg/dL) exhibited a higher likelihood of experiencing nocturia compared to those with lower level (< 2 µg/dL) in all three models (Model 1: OR 1.46, 95%CI 1.29–1.66, P < 0.0001; Model 2: OR 1.23, 95%CI 1.07–1.42, P = 0.01; Model 3: OR 1.23, 95%CI 1.07–1.42, P = 0.01). Subgroup analyses revealed significant associations in various subgroups, including age, sex, sleep trouble, diabetes, diabetes, hypertension, and race.
Conclusions
This study, for the first time, reported the correlation between blood lead level and nocturia. We found that when blood lead levels were ≥ 2 µg/dL, there was a 23% increased risk of nocturia occurrence.
A new less conservative design for nonlinear robust tracking predictive controller
Authors: zamani abbas
Published: January 2024

This paper develops a less-conservative robust tracking predictive controller (LCRTMPC) for nonlinear affine systems capable to deal with changing setpoints and non-additive unknown disturbance. The existence of disturbance and/or sudden changes in a setpoint may lead to feasibility and stability issues in the stabilizing terminal constraint-based MPC. The robust tracking MPCs (RTMPC) usually consider all probable realizations of disturbance or its upper bound in optimization problem which leads to a conservative (poor) tracking performance. The less-conservative method presented here extends the RTMPC to have a large robust positively invariant set (RPI) and appropriate tracking performance. The key idea is tightening control input using estimated disturbance observation error. In this method, the set of tightened control input is calculated using time response characteristics of disturbance observation error. The simulation results of the satellite attitude control system are provided to demonstrate the efficiency of the proposed predictive controller.
Which is the best surgical approaches for thymectomy: RATS, VATS, TORA or SPT? A network meta-analysis
Authors: Shen Yi , Zheng Qiangqiang , Che Guowei , Chen Longqi
Published: January 2024

Purpose T
hymectomy is indicated in the presence of primary thymic diseases such as thymoma. However, there is no clear conclusion which is the best surgical approaches for thymectomy. We performed this network meta-analysis (NMA) to explore and compare the outcomes of different surgical approaches for thymectomy.
Methods
An exhaustive search of PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) was conducted to identify relevant studies from inception to December 1, 2023. Direct and indirect evidence was combined to calculate the odds radios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), as well as to plot the surface under the cumulative ranking (SUCRA) curves. Cluster analyses were adopted to compare the outcomes of different surgical approaches according to the similarity of 2 variables. Publication bias were detected by comparison-adjusted funnel plots.
Results
Fifty-eight studies were enrolled in this NMA, including 4 surgical approaches: thoracotomy (TORA), robot-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (RATS), video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and subxiphoid video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (SPT). The results indicated that in terms of blood loss, RATS was the least, and TORA had more blood loss than VATS and SPT. For pleural drainage duration, TORA had longer pleural drainage duration than RATS. As for pleural drainage volume, TORA had more pleural drainage volume than VATS and SPT. For duration of hospital stay, VATS had longer duration of hospital stay than SPT. In terms of VAS score, VATS and TORA had higher VAS scores than SPT. However, the operative time, ICU stay and postoperative complications of all surgical approaches had no differences.
Conclusion
SPT has faster postoperative recovery, less postoperative pain and better quality of life, and other perioperative outcomes are not inferior to other surgical approaches. RATS is safer and has certain clinical advantages. We look forward to more large-sample, high-quality randomized controlled studies published in the future.
The Coexistence of Infection Spread Patterns in the Global Dynamics of COVID-19 Dissemination
Authors: Inoue Hiroyasu , Souma Wataru , Fujiwara Yoshi
Published: January 2024

The novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2, commonly referred to as COVID-19, triggered the global pandemic.Although the nature of the international spread of infection is an important issue,extracting diffusion networks from observations is challenging because of its inherent complexity.In this paper, we investigate the process of infection worldwide, including time delays, based on global infection case data collected from January 3, 2020 to December 31, 2022.We approach the data with a complex Hilbert principal component analysis, which can consider not only the concurrent relationships between elements, but also the leading and lagging relationships.Then, we examine the interactions among countries by considering six factors: geography, population, GDP, stringency of countermeasures, vaccination rates, and government type.The results show two primary trends occurring in 2020 and in 2021-2022and they interchange with each other.Specifically, European, highly populated, and democratic countries, i.e., countries with high mobility rates, show leading trends in 2020.In contrast, African and nondemocratic countries show leading trends in 2021-2022, followed by countries with high vaccination rates and advanced countermeasures.The results reveal that, although factors that increase infection risk lead to certain trends at the beginning of the pandemic,these trends dynamically changes over time due to socioeconomic factors, especially the introduction of countermeasures.The findings suggest that international efforts to promote countermeasures in developing countries can contribute to pandemic containment.
Three-dimensional computed tomography angiography fusion imaging for posterior interosseous artery perforator location of forearm flap: a retrospective study of 23 patients
Authors: Liu Shuai , Jiang Yan , Tao Xianyao , Xue Mingyu , Qiang Li
Published: January 2024

Background
Flap surgery, integral to various reconstructive procedures, necessitates accurate identification of perforator locations for optimal outcomes. While Color Doppler Sonography (CDS) has been a staple in preoperative planning, its limitations in providing a comprehensive overview of perforator relationships prompted exploration of alternative imaging modalities. This study introduces the application of a novel technique, three-dimensional computed tomography angiography fusion imaging (3D-CTA-FI), for precise dorsal interosseous artery perforator localization in forearm flap surgery.
Method
A retrospective investigation including 23 patients undergoing forearm flap surgery of posterior interosseous artery perforator was conducted, employing a two-phase computed tomography angiography (CTA) protocol. Utilizing Mimics software, 3D models of vascular structures were meticulously reconstructed. Surgical procedures were guided by the 3D-CTA-FI, and accuracy of CDS and 3D-CTA-FI was evaluated by comparing indicated and actual perforator positions.
Results
All flaps exhibited viability, with 3D-CTA-FI consistently portraying accurate depictions of vascular pedicles and perforators. The mean discrepancy between indicated and actual perforator positions was 2.9 ± 1.7 mm (Group 1) and 2.4 ± 1.7 mm (Group 2), accompanied by excellent accordance rates of 47.8% and 60.9%, respectively.
Conclusions
Three-dimensional computed tomography angiography fusion imaging (3D-CTA-FI) emerges as a valuable tool for forearm flap surgery. Its ability to provide detailed, accurate images of perforators enhances preoperative planning and intraoperative precision, making it a feasible and beneficial addition to clinical practice.
Analysis of Maternal and Congenital Syphilis Rates at a New Jersey University Hospital
Authors: Kushnir Alla , Heiman Paige , Bhandari Vineet , Davenport Sarah , Hunter Krystal , Micallef Melissa
Published: January 2024

Objective: To quantify the rise in congenital syphilis (CS) at a large urban hospital and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on CS rates.
Study Design: Retrospective chart review of 61 pregnant women with a positive test or previous diagnosis of syphilis at an urban academic hospital between January 1, 2016–June 1, 2022.
Result: Maternal syphilis and CS rates increased over the 5 years (p<0.001), particularly pre- and post-COVID-19 (p<0.001). Of the mothers studied, 34.6% received adequate prenatal care, 62.7% received adequate screening, and 81.3% received adequate treatment. Stillbirth was noted in 6.6% of pregnancies. Of liveborn infants, 97.6% received appropriate treatment and 45.1% received adequate follow-up. CS development was significantly associated with homelessness (p=0.028) and past opioid use (p=0.031).
Conclusion: Maternal syphilis and CS rates have increased at our hospital, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Access to prenatal care and timely maternal treatment are target areas for improvement.
Investigation of the Effects of Amalgam Fillings and Stainless-Steel Crowns on the GCF IL-1 β and TNF-α Level
Authors: Doostmohammad Fatemeh , Soleimani Banafsheh , Asgarian-Omran Hossein , Bagherianlemraski Mobina , Hosseinnataj Abolfazl , Mirkalaei Fatemeh Mousavi , Nahvi Azam
Published: January 2024

Background
In chronic inflammation caused by dental amalgam fillings and Stainless-Steel Crowns (SSC), host cells produce cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) and interleukin-1 (IL-1). In line with these findings, the present study evaluated the effects of dental amalgam fillings and SSC on the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α cytokines in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) of children.
Methods
A clinical-biochemical study targeted 34 children aged 6 to 9 who were candidates for two-surface amalgam filling or SSC. The participants were split into two groups following careful oral and dental examinations. First, GCF samples were taken before treatment and at 7 and 21 days post-treatment utilizing paper points. The cytokines IL-1β and TNF-α levels in the GCF samples were subsequently measured through commercially available ELISA kits.
Results
The TNF-α levels significantly decreased after one week in the SSC group compared to those in the dental amalgam group (p = 0.017). During the same period, the level of IL-1β increased in both the "amalgam filling" (p = 0.029) and "SSC" (p = 0.046) groups. Ultimately, the levels of the cytokines IL-1β (p = 0.006) and TNF-α (p = 0.029) were significantly different between the two groups.
Conclusions
IL-1β and TNF-α cytokines can be biomarkers for evaluating inflammation induced by dental amalgam fillings and SSCs in children. However, there was no significant difference between the two groups after three weeks, and the children in both groups performed almost identically.
Modelling of enhanced gas extraction in low permeability coal seam by controllable shock wave fracturing
Authors: Fan Chaojun , Sun Hao , Yang Lei , Luo Mingkun , Xiao Bin , Wang Lei , Zhou Lijun
Published: January 2024

The controlled shock wave (CSW) fracturing is an effective method for enhancing permeability of coal seam to promote gas extraction. Based on Fick's law, Darcy's law, the ideal gas law and the Langmuir equation, a damage-seepage-deformation coupling mathematical model of CSW fracturing in coal seam combined with the maximum tensile stress and the Mohr-Coulomb criterion is established. This model is implemented into COMSOL Multiphysics to simulate the coal seam CSW fracturing and subsequent gas extraction. When the shock wave and isotropic in-situ stress are applied on the borehole wall, the coal damage zone is an annular shape, and the permeability in the damage zone increases sharply. The CSW can effectively increase the efficiency of gas extraction and reduce the gas pressure and gas content in coal seam. With the increase of CSW action times, the damage in coal mass reaches a threshold and tends to be stable after several shocks. The damage area and the gas extraction efficiency are positively correlated with the shock intensity. Under the anisotropic ground stress, the larger diversity of the stress in different directions is, the more obvious damage extension in the fractured coal along the maximum stress direction is. Ground stress can inhibit the extension of cracks in the CSW fractured coal seam. This inhibition effect becomes more obvious with the increase of in-situ stress.
Detecting spatial patterns of peatland greenhouse gas sinks and sources with geospatial environmental and remote sensing data
Authors: Christiani Priscillia , Rana Parvez , Räsänen Aleksi , Pitkänen Timo P. , Tolvanen Anne
Published: January 2024

Peatlands play a key role in the circulation of the main greenhouse gases (GHG) – methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrous oxide (N2O). Therefore, detecting the spatial pattern of GHG sinks and sources in peatlands is pivotal for guiding effective climate change mitigation in the land use sector. While geospatial environmental data, which provide detailed spatial information on ecosystems and land use, offer valuable insights into GHG sinks and sources, the potential of directly using remote sensing data from satellites remains largely unexplored. We assessed predicted the spatial distribution of three major GHGs (CH4, CO2, and N2O) sinks and sources across Finland. Utilizing 143 field measurements, we compared the predictive capacity of three different data sets with MaxEnt machine-learning modelling: (1) geospatial environmental data including climate, topography and habitat variables, (2) remote sensing data (Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2), and (3) a combination of both. The combined dataset yielded the highest accuracy with an average test area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.771 and AUC stability of 0.859. A slightly lower accuracy was achieved using only geospatial environmental data (test AUC 0.745, stability AUC 0.857). In contrast, using only remote sensing data resulted in reduced predictive accuracy (test AUC 0.667, stability AUC 0.865). Our results suggest that (1) reliable estimates of GHG sinks and sources cannot be produced with remote sensing data only and (2) integrating multiple data sources is recommended to achieve accurate and realistic predictions of GHG spatial patterns.
Cuproptosis-related genes affect the prognosis of prostate cancer by potentially regulating the immune microenvironment
Authors: Qin Xin , Li Xilei , Jiang Wei , Zhao Yan , Li Haopeng , Zi Tong , Zhu Yaru , Wang Qinghua , Xu Chengdang , Yang Tao , Wang Xinan , Yao Yicong , Wang Licheng , Chen Xi , Zhou Juan , Wu Gang
Published: January 2024

Purpose
As a novel form of cell death, cuproptosis has been found to have an effect on the occurrence, development and prognosis of many other carcinomas, such as renal clear cell carcinoma, hepatocellular carcinoma and breast cancer. However, the role of cuproptosis in prostate cancer is poorly understood.
Methods
We retrieved and downloaded gene expression profiles and clinical information from public databases. We used unsupervised clustering to find differences in the immune microenvironment between subgroups and then obtained the immune differential genes between subgroups. Based on the random forest machine learning algorithm, we constructed a model to distinguish patients’ outcomes and verified their predictive efficacy. Gene with potential regulatory effects was further selected and validated experimentally.
Results
From our findings, most of the cuproptosis-related genes were differentially expressed between prostate cancer and tumor-adjacent tissues. Two clusters based on consensus cluster analysis of cuproptosis-related genes expression showed different clinical information and immune microenvironment. We used random forest as the core algorithm to screen prognostic relevant cuproptosis immune-related genes and constructed a risk stratification model. Different risk groups predicted by the model presented different clinicopathological stages and prognosis. Subsequent experiments revealed that inhibition of PROK1 expression promoted prostate cancer cell proliferation and invasion, and overexpression of PROK1 gave the opposite result, validating the anticancer effect of PROK1 and its potential to become a novel therapeutic target.
Conclusion
Our study reveals a landscape of cuproptosis-related genes in prostate cancer that may influence prostate cancer progression by modulating immunity. One of the key genes, PROK1, was found to be an oncogene. Our study provides new ideas about the immune environment of prostate cancer.
Prioritizing Forest Landscape Restoration Areas by Integrating Farmers' and Experts' Preference Factors in a GIS-Based Multicriteria Decision Analysis
Authors: Pedrollo Camilo Tomazini , Pedercini Fabio , Martins Minella
Published: January 2024

The success of Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) in the tropics hinges on factors like local community needs, ecological conditions, and conservation goals. In the Amazon basin, resource scarcity and lack of special credit lines hinder FLR implementation, pushing initiatives to build robust spatial planning in order to obtain the most cost efficient strategies. Establishing a validated set of criteria is crucial for determining priority areas, requiring stakeholder’s inputs. This study employed Multicriteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) to integrate spatially explicit factors with stakeholders' preferences. The focus was on identifying priority FLR areas in the Northeastern mesoregion (NE) of Pará state, Brazil, populated by small household farmers. Twenty farmers and 23 experts ranked 21 socioecological factors segregated in two clusters (economic/infrastructure and biophysical/land use restrictions), derived from a regression model study that evaluated secondary vegetation dynamics. Key infrastructural factors ('distance to roads,' 'distance to markets,' and 'distance to urban centers') were mostly consistent for both groups. Variations emerged in biophysical/restriction factors, with 'conservation unit of sustainable use' prioritized by farmers but not deemed relevant by experts. Synergies and disparities also surfaced for factors like 'deficit of legal reserve' and ‘high agricultural suitability’. Stakeholders' ranking scores were employed as weights to create prioritization maps. Experts identified 51.5% of NE Pará area as nonpriority and 5.4% as high priority, while farmers indicated 48.3% and 5.2%, respectively. Combining both groups' perceptions yielded consensus maps designating 9.1% of NE Pará as high priority. Bragantina microregion stood out in consensus maps, concentrating 32.7% of high priority areas. This approach provides a cost-effective method for stakeholder’s engagement. Policy recommendations emphasize focusing on western Bragantina and southwestern Salgado microregions to promote large-scale FLR effectively.
DNA as a perfect quantum computer based on the quantum physics principle
Authors: Aroche Raul Riera , García Yveth Marlene Ortiz , Arellano Meylín Aymeé Martínez , Leal Annie Riera
Published: January 2024

DNA is a complex multi-resolution molecule whose theoretical study is a challenge. Its intrinsic multiscale nature requires chemistry and quantum physics to understand the structure and quantum informatics to explain its operation as a perfect quantum computer. Here, we present theoretical results of DNA that allow a better description of its structure and the operation process in the transmission, coding, and decoding of genetic information. Aromaticity is explained by the oscillatory resonant quantum state of correlated electron and hole pairs due to the quantized molecular vibrational energy acting as an attractive force. The correlated pairs form a supercurrent in the nitrogenous bases in a single band π-molecular orbital (π-MO). The MO wave function (Φ) is assumed to be the linear combination of the n constituent atomic orbitals. The central Hydrogen bond between Adenine (A) and Thymine (T) or Guanine (G) and Cytosine (C) functions like an ideal Josephson Junction. The approach of a Josephson Effect between two superconductors is correctly described, as well as the condensation of the nitrogenous bases to obtain the two entangled quantum states that form the qubit. Combining the quantum state of the composite system with the classical information, RNA polymerase teleports one of the four Bell states. DNA is a perfect quantum computer.
Small Meckel’s Cave Volume and Localization of the Foramen Ovale and Rotundum Are Associated with No-Neurovascular Compression Trigeminal Neuralgia
Authors: Lv Wenming , Liu Xiaoliang , Zhang Liangwen
Published: January 2024

Objective
To investigate the new pathogenesis of no-neurovascular compression (N-NVC) trigeminal neuralgia (TN).
Methods
Twenty-two patients (mean age 57 years; male-to-female 4:18) with N-NVC TN who were diagnosed by trigeminal nerve MRI (TN-MRI), then another 22 sex-matched healthy controls (mean age 56 years)with skull base computerized tomography (CT) and TN-MRI was selected to investigate the pathogenesis.The volume of Meckel’s Cave (MC) was measured by the Brainlab navigation imaging system in MRI, and the areas of foramen ovale (FO) and foramen rotundum (FR) were evaluated by the three-dimensional reconstruction of skull base CT using the Radiant DICOM software. The sagittal (y) axis was passing through the middle of the dorsum sellae, which connected the anterior-most point and the rearmost point of the skull. The coordinates perpendicular to the y-axis and transverse (x) axis passing through the middle of the sellar dorsum were established to determine the positions of FO and FR in the x-axis (FO-x, FR-x), and y-axis (FO-y, FR-y), and the region of the area of interest enclosed within the x and y axes (ROI-FO, ROI-FR).
Results
No difference was found in the volume of bilateral Meckel’s Cave, area and location of the FO and FR, and area of ROI in HCs.The volume of MC on the affected side of patients with N-NVC TN was (0.402 ± 0.116) mm3, FO-x (2.109 ± 0.216) cm, FO-y (0.892 ± 0.103) cm, ROI-FO (1.889 ± 0.333) cm2, FR-x (2.090 ± 0.117) cm, and ROI-FR (4.353 ± 0.272) cm2. The volume of MC on the healthy side was (0.473 ± 0.158) mm3, FO-x (2.379 ± 0.171) cm, FO-y (1.142 ± 0.154) cm, ROI-FO (2.719 ± 0.432) cm2, FR-x (2.294 ± 0.103) cm, and ROI-FR (4.828 ± 0.319) cm2.U test showed that the above parameters on the affected side of patients with TN were significantly less than those on the healthy side (P˂0.01).
Conclusion
In patients who classify as idiopathic TN based on ICHD-3, a statistically smaller volume of MC, area of ROI, and the distances of FO and FR to the sagittal or transverse axis suggested that they could be the causes of N-NVC TN.
Research on human-robot collaboration method for parallel robots oriented to segment docking
Authors: Sun Deyuan , Wang Junyi , Xu Zhigang , Bao Jianwen , Lu Han
Published: January 2024

In the field of aerospace, large and heavy cabin segments present a significant challenge in assembling space engines. The considerable inertial force of cabin segments’ mass causes unexpected motion during docking, leading to segment collisions and difficulty in ensuring precise engine segment docking. Traditional manual docking utilizes workers' expertise, yet the labor-intensive nature and low productivity are unsuitable for practical applications. Human-robot collaboration can effectively integrate the advantages of humans and robots. Additionally, parallel robots, known for their precision and load-bearing ability, are widely employed in precise assembly tasks under heavy loads. Thus, human-parallel-robot collaboration serves as an excellent solution for these challenges. This paper proposes an easily implementable framework, employing human-parallel-robot collaboration technology for cabin segment docking in production. A fractional-order variable damping admittance control and an inverse dynamics robust controller are suggested to improve the robot's compliance, responsiveness, and trajectory tracking accuracy in collaboration. This allows operators to dynamically adjust the robot's motion in real-time, counterbalancing inertial forces and preventing collisions. Segment docking assembly experiments are conducted utilizing the Stewart platform in this study. The results show that the proposed method enables the robot to quickly respond to interaction forces, ensuring compliance and stable motion accuracy, even under unknown interaction forces.