bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Establishment and Validation of a Field Application Model for Detecting Boom Height Based on an Ultrasonic Sensor for the Whole Growth Cycle of Wheat
Authors: Wu Jianguo , Li Chengqian , Pan Xiaoyong , Wang Xiu , Zhao Xueguan , Gao Yuanyuan , Yang Shuo , Zhai Changyuan
Published: October 2023

Ultrasonic feedback energy is affected by the variety, planting and growth state of crops, it is difficult to fine application in precision agriculture systems. To this end, an ultrasonic sensor was mounted in a spray boom height detection system. Winter wheat was used as the test object to obtain feedback energy values for the spray boom height from the top of the wheat in the field during six critical growth stages: the standing stage, jointing stage, booting stage, heading stage, filling stage and maturity stage. The relationship between the actual value of the height from the spray boom to the top of wheat (Habw) and the detected value of the height from the spray boom to the top of wheat (Hdbw) was analyzed. A spray boom height detection model based on the ultrasonic sensor during the full growth cycle of wheat was determined. Field validation tests showed that the applicability of the spray boom height detection distance (Dd) of the spray boom height detection model proposed in the present study was 450 mm~950 mm. Within the applicable Dd range, the detection error of the detection model was ≤5 cm during the full growth cycle. This study provides an ultrasonic detection model construction method, which improves the reliability and accuracy of ultrasonic boom height detection for different wheat growth stages.
EHMFFL: Ensemble Heuristic-Metaheuristic Feature Fusion Learning Algorithm for Heart Disease Diagnosis
Authors: Shokouhifar Mohammad , Hasanvand Mohamad , Moharamkhani Elaheh , Werner Frank
Published: October 2023

Heart disease is a global health concern of paramount importance, causing a significant number of fatalities and disabilities. Precise and timely diagnosis of heart disease is pivotal in pre-venting adverse outcomes and improving patient well-being, thereby creating a growing demand for intelligent approaches to predict heart disease effectively. This paper introduces an Ensemble Heuristic-Metaheuristic Feature Fusion Learning (EHMFFL) algorithm for heart disease diagnosis. Within the EHMFFL algorithm, a diverse ensemble learning model is crafted, featuring different feature subsets for each heterogeneous base learner, including support vector machine, K-nearest neighbors, logistic regression, random forest, naive bayes, decision tree, and XGBoost. The primary objective is to identify the most pertinent features for each base learner, leveraging a combined heuristic-metaheuristic approach that integrates the heuristic knowledge of Pearson correlation coefficient with the metaheuristic-driven grey wolf optimizer. The second objective is to aggregate the decision outcomes of the various base learners through ensemble learning, aimed at constructing a robust prediction model. The performance of the EHMFFL algorithm is rigorously assessed using the Cleveland and Statlog datasets yielding remarkable results with an accuracy of 91.8% and 88.9%, respectively, surpassing state-of-the-art machine learning, ensemble learning, and feature selection techniques in heart disease diagnosis. These findings underscore the potential of the EHMFFL algorithm in enhancing diagnostic accuracy for heart disease and providing valuable support to clinicians in making more informed decisions regarding patient care.
Design and Evaluation of an Attractant Sticky Trap for Surveillance of Household Indoors of Female Populations of Aedes aegypti in Mexico
Authors: Paiz-Moscoso Keila Elizabeth , Cisneros-Vasquez Luis Alberto , Danis-Lozano Rogelio , Rodríguez-Rojas Jorge Jesús , Rebollar-Téllez Eduardo Alfonso , Sánchez-Casas Rosa María , Fernandez-Salas Ildefonso
Published: October 2023

Surveillance is the systematic data collection, analysis, and interpretation essential to planning and implementing control activities. The lack of success in control and surveillance elsewhere for the Ae. aegypti mosquito demands developing new accessible and effective strategies. This work aimed to develop and evaluate an adhesive and lure trap for household indoor and outdoor surveillance of Ae. aegypti. Based on a bibliographic review, four compounds with significant attraction percentages for Ae. aegypti were considered. Our more effective blend was determined by preliminary bioassays using the high-throughput screening system (HITSS) and 90 × 90 cm mosquito cages. We designed a low-cost, pyramid-shaped, sticky cardboard trap to incorporate the selected blend. Semi-field 2 x 2 m cages and field tests were conducted to evaluate its effectiveness through mosquito capture percentages. In laboratory tests, blend number 2 presented an attraction percentage of 47.5 ± 4.8%; while in semi-field cages, a 4-inch, 110-v powered fan was used to disperse the attractants, then a similar capture percentage of 43.2 ± 4.0 % was recorded. Field evaluation of the at-house indoor environment and comparing it with the golden standard BG-Sentinel trap recorded interesting results, i.e., an average of our prototype 6.0 ± 1.5 trapped mosquitoes versus 10.0 ± 2.6. In most Latin American countries, there is a lack of formal and accessible strategies for monitoring adult populations of Ae. aegypti, therefore, must develop tools that reinforce entomological surveillance methods.
Tolcsvai Nagy Gábor szerk.: A szövegértés kérdései (Sólyom Réka)
Authors: Sólyom Réka
Published: October 2023

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Csépány Nikoletta: Az olvasási stratégiák a szövegértő olvasás szolgálatában. Az értő olvasás fejlesztése negyedik osztályban olvasási stratégiák és retorikai szerkezetek segítségével (Balázs Boróka)
Authors: Balázs Boróka
Published: October 2023

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Magyarné Várbíró Zita et. al.: Hang-lépcső, Hang-lépcső 2. (Molnárné Bogáth Réka)
Authors: Molnárné Bogáth Réka
Published: October 2023

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Characterization and validation of a lyophilized Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification method for the detection of Esox lucius
Authors: Jothinarayanan Nivedhitha , Karlsen Frank , Roseng Lars Eric
Published: October 2023

In many ways, globalization is beneficial, but in one way, it promotes the spread of alien (invasive) species through international trade and transport. In different habitats, Esox lucius (Northern Pike) can be considered as a regionally alien species, and this fish tend to establish a higher density population than desired in fresh water. Early identification of such invasive species using sensitive and quick methods is important to be able to take immediate measures and avoid environmental problems. Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) has emerged as the best DNA/RNA detection technique, without any expensive equipment and could be used to detect environmental DNA (eDNA). However, the reagents for amplification are not stable at ambient temperature for field applications. Therefore, this work aims to lyophilize the entire reaction mixture as a single microbead, with enzyme, and LAMP primers towards the detection of mitochondrial cytochrome B (Cyt B), a housekeeping gene in Esox lucius. Analytical and molecular techniques were performed to characterize and validate the lyophilized beads, respectively. The lyophilized beads were stored at two different temperatures, at 20 ºC and 4 ºC, and tested for biological activity after different time intervals. The result shows that lyophilized beads are bioactive for almost 30 days when stored at 20 ºC, while beads at 4 ºC did not lose their bioactivity after storage for up to one year. This study will be particularly useful for conducting on-site LAMP analyses in the field, where resources for freezing and storage are limited.
Modeling China's Per Capita Disposable Income by Uncertain Statistics
Authors: Jia Yuxing , Tang Han
Published: October 2023

Uncertain statistics is a set of mathematical techniques for collecting, analyzing and interpreting data by uncertainty theory. There are mainly three modeling methods in uncertain statistics: uncertain time series analysis, uncertain regression analysis, and uncertain differential equation. This paper applies these tools to modeling China's per capita disposable income, and employs uncertain hypothesis test to determine whether the estimated uncertain statistical models fit China's per capita disposable income. In addition, this paper shows that it is necessary to use uncertain statistics instead of probability statistics to model China's per capita disposable income by investigating the corresponding residuals.
The severely injured trauma patient – most common surgical life-saving procedures and impact of hemodynamic instability on treatment process
Authors: Witzenhausen Moritz , Hossfeld Björn , Kulla Martin , Beltzer Christian
Published: October 2023

Background
There are few data on the most common life-threatening injuries and the corresponding surgical procedures required in trauma patients in German level 1 trauma centres. It is also unclear whether and to what extent hemodynamic instability affects the treatment process in terms of time to surgery, operative time and usage of damage control protocols.
Methods
A retrospective evaluation of all patients with an ISS > 16 admitted to a single level-1 trauma unit between 01/2017 and 09/2022 and subsequentsurgery with vital indication was performed.
Patients with systolic blood pressure > 80 mmHg on arrival were defined as hemodynamicallystable (group 1) and were compared to patients with systolic blood pressure < 80 mmHg (hemodynamically unstable; group 2).
A descriptive analysis was performed, and Fisher’s exact testand the Mann‒Whitney U test were used to calculate differences between groups where appropriate.
Results
Sixty patients were included in our study. Of these, 26 (43%) were referred to as hemodynamically unstable, and 34 (57%) were stable. Abdominal bleeding from the spleen (30%), liver (21%) and mesentery (21%) were the most common life-threatening injuries, followed by hemothorax (13%). As a consequence, abdominal surgeons performed life-saving surgical procedures most often (65% vs. vascular surgeons = 18% vs. thoracic surgeons = 14% vs. orthopaedic surgeons = 3%). Between groups 1 and 2, significant differences could be evaluated for time to surgery (107 vs. 70 min.; p < 0.001), ISS (22 vs. 34 points; p < 0.001), duration of surgery (147 vs. 107 min.; p = 0.016), and usage of damage control surgery protocols (53 vs. 88%; p = 0.005).
Conclusion
Our data from a German level 1 trauma centre show that 1) life-threatening injuries in polytrauma patients are most commonlylocated in the abdomen, 2) abdominal surgeons perform life-saving surgical procedures (e.g., bleeding control) most often, 3) haemodynamic instability on arrival reduces time to surgery and operative time, and 4) increases the usage of damage control protocol significantly.
Antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of encapsulated tea polyphenols in chitosan/alginate-coated zein nanoparticles: A possible supplement against fish pathogens in aquaculture
Authors: Fabrikov Dmitri , Varga Ágnes Timea , García María Carmen Vargas , Bélteky Péter , Kozma Gábor , Kónya Zoltán , Martínez Josefa L. López , Barroso Fernando , Sánchez-Muros María José
Published: October 2023

Due to the increase inaquaculture facilities, where a large number of animals live in a relatively small area, infectious diseases expanded, resulting in large losses in the sector. These infections not only affectfarmed fish but also spread the pathogens to the ecosystem. Regulation of antibiotic usecalls for the emergence of more sustainable alternative treatments. Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is a secondary metabolite found mainly in the leaves of Camellia sinensiswith various biological activities. However, EGCG is very susceptible to degradation, which reduces its absorption in the digestive process.
In this work, EGCG and green tea extract were encapsulated in zein nanoparticles stabilisedwith alginate and chitosan to reduce the degradation effect. For all formulations, nanoparticles with a hydrodynamic size of less than 300 nm and an absolute ζ -potential value >30 mV were obtained. The encapsulation efficiency gave values greater than 75% forpolysaccharide-stabilised particles. The antioxidant capacity (DPPH and ABTS assays) of the encapsulated substances, although lower than those of the free ones, maintained high levels, SC50 of 33.6 and 63.3 μg/mL forEGCG and GTE encapsulated, respectively. On the other hand, the evaluation ofantimicrobial activity, tested against five fish pathogenic bacteria, showed greater efficiency in terms of growth inhibition for nanoparticles with chitosan, with average overall values of around 60 %, although in the specific case of Photobacterium damselae, the most sensitive species, inhibition levels of more than 90 % were recorded. These results support encapsulation as a good strategy forpolyphenolic compounds, since it allows maintaining significant levels of antioxidant activity and increasing the potential for antimicrobial activity, in addition to conferring protection against hostile conditions they may face in their application in the aquaculture sector.
Deep active learning with high structural discriminability for molecular mutagenicity prediction
Authors: He Song , Xu Huiyan , Zhao Yanpeng , Han Junshan , Zan Peng , Bo Xiaochen
Published: October 2023

The assessment of mutagenicity is essential in drug discovery, as it may lead to cancer and germ cells damage. Although in silico methods have been proposed for mutagenicity prediction, their performance is hindered by the scarcity of labeled molecules. However, experimental mutagenicity testing can be time-consuming and costly. One solution to lower the annotation cost is active learning, where the algorithm actively selects the most valuable samples from a vast chemical space and hands them over to the oracle (e.g., human expert) for annotation. In this paper, we propose TOX-AL, a deep active learning framework, which can actively explore the chemical space and identify the most valuable molecules, resulting in competitive performance with a small number of labeled samples. Compared to the random strategy, TOX-AL can reduce about 57% of training molecules. Surprisingly, TOX-AL exhibits outstanding molecular structural discriminability, allowing it to pick molecules with high structural similarity but opposite properties.
Exploring the factors influencing public willingness for spectator sports consumption：A grounded theory approach
Authors: Wang Fenghao , Zhou Junhua , Fan Chenyu
Published: October 2023

Spectator sports consumption serves as a vital component in the development of the sports industry. Therefore, this study analyzes the willingness to participate in spectator sports consumption from the perspective of consumers. On this basis, we establish a model on the influence of public willingness to participate in spectator sports consumption, and on this basis, we reveal the influence of crucial elements. The results of the study indicate that: Firstly, personal and psychological factors are significant internal drivers, while external drivers cover product and contextual factors. Secondly, the key to filling the attitudinal and behavioral gaps is the depth of perception individually, which is of great importance in increasing public participation. Thirdly, external contextual factors impacting consumer support primarily consist of external incentives, social influences, and urban contextual variables, which also serve a moderating role in the integration model. The results suggest that guiding the public to actively participate in spectator sport consumption should be based on an understanding of individual perceptions, emotions as well as attitudes. This paper develops a model examining public motivation to engage in spectator sports locally in China, pinpoints the primary influencing factors and mechanisms, and presents novel concepts for the sustainable growth of the sports sector.
Analyzing the Flood Intensifying Factors and Mitigation Strategies to Enhance the Flood Resilience in Pakistan: A Novel Hybrid Fuzzy-FUCOM-Fuzzy-WASPAS Approach
Authors: Alam Zeshan , Khan Zeeshan
Published: October 2023

Communities have been menaced by floods for ages. Geographically, South Asia is one of the most flood prone regions of the world. In South Asia, particularly Pakistan has the long and deadly history of floods causing losses to various infrastructure, lives, and industries. Over the last two decades, frequency and severity of flood events have been increased and has adversely affected the livelihood and well-being of millions of people in Pakistan. Therefore, the nation must develop appropriate risk management policies and procedures. The purpose of this research study is to identify the most appropriate flood risk mitigation strategies that the government of Pakistan should adopt to reduce flood risks. The evaluation of these risk reduction strategies is based on specific criteria. Those criteria are gauged by Fuzzy Full Consistency Method (FUCOM). Moreover, flood risk mitigation strategies are evaluated by using Fuzzy Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment (WASPAS) method, considering the previously prioritized criteria. According to results Lack of Governance, Lack of Funding and Resources, and Lack of Flood Control Infrastructure are the most significant flood intensifying factors and act as criteria for assessing flood risk mitigation strategies. Whereas Adopting Hard Engineering Strategies (Dams, Reservoirs, River Straightening & Dredging, Embankments and Flood Relief Channels), Maintaining Existing Infrastructure and Adopting Soft Engineering Strategies (Floodplain zoning, Comprehensive Flood-Risk-Assessment, Sophisticated Flood Modeling) are identified as the most viable top three flood risk mitigation strategies by Fuzzy WASPAS analysis. The highest weight i.e., 0.98 was assigned to the adoption of a hard engineering strategy. Afterwards, a weight of 0.5 was assigned to the strategy of maintaining existing infrastructure and a weight of 0.2 was assigned to the strategy of adopting soft engineering approaches. Lastly, a policy based on these strategies is also recommended to the government of Pakistan to reduce flood losses in future.
Potential of soft-shelled rugby headgear to lower regional brain strain metrics during standard drop tests
Authors: Stitt Danyon , Kabaliuk Natalia , Alexander Keith , Draper Nick
Published: October 2023

Background
The growing concern for player safety in rugby has led to an increased focus on head impacts. Previous laboratory studies have shown that rugby headgear significantly reduces peak linear and rotational accelerations compared to no headgear. However, these metrics may have limited relevance in assessing the effectiveness of headgear in preventing strain-based brain injuries like concussions. This study used a rapid estimation finite element model to quantify regional brain strain mitigation of rugby headgear during drop tests. Tests were conducted on flat and angled impact surfaces across different heights, using a Hybrid III headform and neck.
Results
Headgear presence generally reduced the peak rotational velocities, with some headgear outperforming others. However, the effect on peak regional brain strains was less consistent. Of the 5 headgear tested, only 2 consistently reduced the peak regional brain strains, but in general only marginally, and in isolated cases, resulted in an increase in the peak regional brain strain. The 3 conventional headgear showed no consistent reduction in the peak regional brain strain while in some conditions, increasing the peak strain.
Conclusions
The presence of rugby headgear may be able to reduce the severity of head impact exposure during rugby. However, to understand how these findings relate to brain strain mitigation in the field, further investigation into the relationship between the impact conditions in this study and those encountered during actual gameplay is necessary.
The effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale L.) liquid extract supplemented with whole milk on growth, immune response, antioxidant defence mechanism, and general health of Holstein's calves
Authors: Özkaya Serkan , Pigamov Fahruddin , Erbaş Sabri , Mutlucan Murat , Arın Ulaş Evren , Şanlı Elif Rabia
Published: October 2023

This study was carried out to examine the effects of the supplementation of ginger liquid extract (GLE) to whole milk on the growth, immune response, antioxidative defence mechanism, and general health of Holstein’s calves. Sixteen calves (4-d old) were included in the experiment and randomly assigned to groups, and they were fed whole milk containing GLE at a rate of 0, 0.50, 0.72, and 1% of the milk amount consumed. Calves consuming 1% GLE milk were weaned at an earlier age and gained better body weight (BW) compared to the other groups. The group fed with 0.50% GLE milk consumed less daily starter than the other groups. The supplementation of GLE decreased the fecal score (FS), the number of days with diarrhea (DDN), and illness (IDN) of calves non-significantly. Supplementation of 1% GLE significantly suppressed the growth of E. coli, but its effect on the growth of other pathogenic bacteria was not significant. No negative effect of GLE supplementation on hemogram and biochemical blood parameters was observed. Supplementation of 1% GLE decreased malondialdehyde (MDA), total oxidative status (TOS), and oxidative stress index (OSI) values insignificantly, however, it supported the antioxidative defence mechanism and immune response at non-significant. The results obtained study show that 1% GLE supplementation can be effective in raising healthy calves by improving their immune level and antioxidant capacity.
Omental Artery Bleeding: A Rare Complication of Percutaneous Cholecystostomy
Authors: Al-Mehiawi Adil , Common Andrew , Dalton Andrew
Published: October 2023

Background: Percutaneous cholecystostomy (PCC) is often performed to treat acute cholecystitis in critically ill or high-risk surgical patients. This case report illuminates a rare complication following PCC that has not been previously reported in the literature.
Case Presentation: A 49-year-old male with a complex medical history presented with symptoms indicative of cholecystitis which was confirmed on imaging. The patient underwent PCC with no intra-procedural complications. Post-procedure, the patient experienced a significant drop in vital signs with intraperitoneal free fluid on CT. Prompt fluoroscopy-guided angiography that identified bleeding from an omental artery, along with subsequent embolization of the bleeding artery were crucial in stabilizing the patient's condition.
Conclusion: This case report underscores the importance of comprehensive anatomical understanding, procedural vigilance, and swift response to complications during PCC. The uniqueness of this case lies in the rarity of the complication and the successful management, thereby enriching the existing compendium of knowledge on PCC-associated risks.
Unveiling the Hidden Links: A Mendelian Randomization Study on the Causal Relationship between Smoking, Alcohol Consumption, and the Development of Myopia and Astigmatism
Authors: Wei Diyao , Wang Huanyan , Huang Ling , Hou Minghui , Liang Hong-Gang , Shi Xiang , Wei Xianghui , Li Jingrong , Gan Liuzhu , Lv Bi , Deng Jiabi , Qing Lulu
Published: October 2023

Background：
The influence of environmental factors like smoking and alcohol on myopia and astigmatism is controversial. However, due to ethical concerns, alternative study designs are urgently needed to assess causal inference, as mandatory exposure to cigarettes and alcohol is unethical.
Methods：
Following comprehensive screenings, 326 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to myopia and astigmatism were included in the dataset. To validate the causal association between exposures such as cigarette smoking, alcohol consumption, and coffee intake, and outcomes namely astigmatism and myopia, five regression models were employed. These models encompassed MR-Egger regression, random-effects inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median estimator (WME), weighted model, and simple model. The instrumental variables utilized in these analyses were the aforementioned SNPs. Apply Cochran's Q test to determine heterogeneity of SNPs; if heterogeneity exists, focus on IVW model results.
Results：
The IVW model showed a 1.379-fold increase in the risk of astigmatism (OR= 1.379, 95%CI: 0.822~2.313, P=0.224) and a 0.963-fold increase in the risk of myopia (OR= 0.963, 95%CI:0.666~1.393, P=0.841) for each unit increase in smoking. For each unit increase in coffee intake, the risk of astigmatism increased 1.610-fold (OR= 1.610, 95%CI:0.444~5.835, P=0.469) and the risk of myopia increased 0.788-fold (OR= 0.788, 95%CI:0.340~1.824, P=0.578). For each additional unit of alcohol consumption, the risk of astigmatism increased by 0.763-fold (OR= 0.763, 95%CI:0.380~1.530, P=0.446), and none of the differences were statistically significant. However, for each unit of alcohol consumption, the risk of myopia increased by 1.597 times, and the difference was statistically significant (OR= 1.597, 95%CI:1.023~2.493, P=0.039).
Conclusions:
The findings indicate that alcohol consumption is a risk factor for myopia, but smoking and coffee intake do not affect its development. Additionally,there is no association between smoking, alcohol consumption, coffee intake, and the risk of astigmatism.
Structural racism and violence: Routine healthcare access in a cohort of marginalized Indigenous women and Two-Spirit Peoples during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Perry Chelsey , Goldenberg Shira , Deering Kathleen , Patrick Lyana , Braschel Melissa , Shannon Kate , Bingham Brittany
Published: October 2023

Objectives
Historical and ongoing colonial violence, racism, discrimination, criminalization, and intergenerational trauma continues to impact the health of Indigenous women (cisgender and transgender) and Two-Spirit Peoples. Previous and ongoing work clearly articulate the deeply harmful roles of colonialism and racism in continuing to systemically exclude Indigenous Peoples from accessing equitable and culturally safe healthcare. While the COVID-19 pandemic has amplified structural inequities, little attention has been paid to how the pandemic impacts healthcare access for Indigenous women and Two-Spirit Peoples living in urban settings. The aim of this study was to evaluate factors associated with experiencing difficulty accessing routine healthcare in a cohort of marginalized urban Indigenous women and Two-Spirit Peoples on the ancestral, occupied territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Nations in what is now referred to as Metro Vancouver, Canada during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
Data were drawn from AMPLIFY, a study of Indigenous cis and trans women and Two-Spirit Peoples in Metro Vancouver. Analyses drew on baseline and semi-annual questionnaire data collected with sex workers and women living with HIV from October 2020–August 2021. We used bivariate and multivariable logistic regression with generalized estimating equations (GEE) to model correlates of experiencing difficulty accessing a family doctor, nurse, or clinic for routine healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic in the last 6-months.
Results
Amongst 142 marginalized Indigenous women and Two-Spirit Peoples (199 observations), 27.5% reported difficulty accessing routine healthcare. In multivariable GEE logistic regression, participants who had ever been pregnant (AOR:4.71, 95% CI:1.33–16.66) experienced negative changes in psychological and emotional well-being (AOR: 3.99, 95% CI: 1.33–11.98), lacked access to culturally safe health services (AOR:4.67, 95% CI:1.43–15.25), and had concerns regarding safety or violence in their community (AOR:2.72, 95% CI:1.06–6.94) had higher odds of experiencing recent difficulty accessing routine healthcare.
Discussion
Findings are in line with the BC Commissioned In Plain Sight report which recommends the need for accessible, culturally safe, anti-racist, and trauma-informed routine healthcare for marginalized Indigenous cisgender and transgender women and Two-Spirit Peoples during the current and future pandemics. More community-based research is needed to understand access needs for culturally safe routine healthcare amongst marginalized Indigenous cisgender and transgender women and Two-Spirit Peoples.
Causal Relationships between Common Autoimmune Disease and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Study of Univariable and Multivariable Mendelian Randomization.
Authors: Tan Xin , Chen Shirong
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Whether Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are a risk factor for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is questionable and has been reported in observational studies, but the quality of the evidence is low and inconclusive. Our study intends to assess the causal association between common AIDs and CTS through univariable and multivariable mendelian randomization (MR).
Methods
we mainly utilized univariable MR analysis through IVW. Weighted median, MR-Egger analysis to assess the association of AIDs and CTS. Then, we extended the limits of univariable MR analysis through multivariable mendelian randomization in IVW, Egger method, Lasso and median method. The mediating effect was calculated by mediating MR. Finally, the MR-PRESSO, Cochran's Q test and F-values are calculated to assess the levels of pleiotropy, heterogeneity, and intensity of selected IVs and exposures through mediated MR.
Results
Univariable MR results showed a positive correlation from RA, GD, T1D to ILD with an increased relative risk. While, adjusting by other two AIDs through multivariable mendelian randomization, only T1D is robustly correlated with CTS. T1D can also produce effects on CTS through RA, GD as mediators. Furthermore, the outcome of MR-Egger intercept did not provide evidence of horizontal pleiotropy. The F-value results were all greater than 10, indicating that the selected IV and exposure intensities were appropriate.
Conclusion
Based on the results of univariable mendelian randomization analysis, the study found genetic evidence supporting a positive causal relationship from RA, T1D, GD to CTS, but only T1D maintained consistent results after multivariable MR analysis. In addition, 24.3% and 25.1% of the effects of T1D on CTS were mediated by RA and GD, respectively. Therefore, appropriate intervention of T1D can reduce the incidence of CTS. Treatment of T1D should be considered a primary preventive measure for CTS.
Low-density neutrophils and myeloid-derived suppressor cell subsets as immune indicators of early diagnosis and prognosis in patients with sepsis
Authors: Cui Juanjuan , Cai Wen , Lin Jing , Zhang Li , Miao Youhan , Xu Ying , Zhao Weifeng
Published: October 2023

Background: Immunosuppression is a leading cause of septic death. Therefore, it is necessary to search for biomarkers that can evaluate the immune status of patients with sepsis. We assessed the diagnostic and prognostic value of low-density neutrophils (LDNs) and myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) subsets in the peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of patients with sepsis.
Methods: LDNs and MDSCs subsets were compared among 52 inpatients with sepsis, 33 inpatients with infection, and 32 healthy controls to investigate their potential as immune indicators of sepsis. The percentages of LDNs, monocytic MDSCs (M-MDSCs), and polymorphonuclear MDSCs (PMN-MDSCs) in PBMCs were analyzed. Sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) scores, C-reactive protein (CRP), and procalcitonin (PCT) levels were measured concurrently.
Results: The percentages of LDNs and MDSCs subsets were significantly increased in the healthy controls, infection, and sepsis groups. MDSCs performed similarly to CRP and PCT in the diagnosis of infection or sepsis. LDNs and MDSCs subsets significantly correlated with PCT and CRP levels and showed an upward trend with the number of dysfunctional organs and SOFA score. Non-survivors had elevated M-MDSCs compared with that of patients who survived sepsis within 28 days after enrollment.
Conclusions: LDNs and MDSCs subsets were promising diagnostic biomarkers in infection and sepsis, even in distinguishing sepsis from infection. M-MDSCs are potential prognostic biomarkers of sepsis and can be used to predict 28-day hospital mortality in patients with sepsis.
SrCaAl mixed oxides derived from LDH as a novel and efficient base catalyst for Knoevenagel condensation: multivariate optimization study
Authors: Nazari Zahra , Mahdavi Vahid
Published: October 2023

The Knoevenagel condensation reaction is one of the most important reactions in industry for the synthesis of organic materials, medicinal, and biological compounds. In this work, we have proposed an original and efficient solid-based catalytic system for the Knoevenagel condensation reaction. For the first time, a mixed oxide catalyst derived from HT-like Sr0.5Ca2.5Al was synthesized and calcined at 850 ºC, and characterized by various techniques. This catalyst was also compared with the usual Ca3Al sample in terms of structural characteristics and catalytic activity. The nanocatalyst acted as a solid base in the Knoevenagel reaction, facilitating the reaction between three active methylene compounds and benzaldehyde. The findings revealed that the Sr0.5Ca2.5Al sample is highly active in this reaction compared to the Ca3Al sample due to its strongly basic sites. The effects of reaction time, amount of catalyst, and reaction temperature on benzaldehyde conversion (%) and product selectivity (%) were assessed in this study using the Box-Benken design.The appropriateness of the quadratic regression model was evaluated through ANOVA method. The experimental results demonstrate the validity and appropriateness of the model. In addition, under optimal conditions, the conversion percentage of benzaldehyde and product selectivity reached 97% and 84% respectively.
Complete Resolution of Quadriparesis Following Fixation Surgery of Cervical Spine Pott's Disease: A Case Report.
Authors: Zahid Shafi Ullah , Khan Ahmad , Aminpoor Hasibullah , Jaweed Mohammad
Published: October 2023

Tuberculous spondylitis, also known as Pott’s disease, is due to infection of spine by mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) leading to vertebral body and inter-vertebral disc destruction. It is the most common form of musculoskeletal tuberculosis less frequently affecting the cervical spine however, the thoracolumbar spine is the commonest among the younger population. The onset of this condition is insidious, and its clinical presentation is non-specific. However, Pott’s disease may be complicated by neurologic deficits including paraplegia or even quadriplegia, with huge health, economic and psychological burden. We are reporting a case of Pott’s disease involving the cervical spine (C5/C6) in a 50-year-old man who presented with unusually quadriparesis and severe neck tenderness on touch. Early decompression surgery and fixation, thus limiting its complications which achieved complete resolution of symptoms following a 12-month course of anti-tuberculosis medication.
Comparative selective conversion of biomass-derived mono- and poly- saccharides into lactic acid with lanthanide Lewis acid catalysts
Authors: Bermejo-López Alejandro , Illera Alba E. , Melgosa Rodrigo , Beltrán Sagrario , Sanz M. Teresa
Published: October 2023

Lanthanides were tested (Ce3+, Er3+, Yb3+) as catalysts to produce lactic acid (LA) from the monosaccharides present in corn stover (glucose, xylose and arabinose) resulting in ytterbium being the most active. A MW-heated system led to similar LA yield as a conventionally-heated pressurized system. The maximum value of LA yield was 40% at 240°C after 20 min of isothermal treatment regardless the starting monosaccharides, which allowed to propose a similar LA production route based on the products profile determined along time for the three monosaccharides. Temperature and time determined the product profile, observing furfural degradation at severity factors higher than 3.5, while values higher than 5.5 were needed to observe LA degradation. By increasing temperature, catalyst solubility decreased, increasing its presence in the solid residue after treatment. Xylan conversion to LA was similar as for xylose, but lower yield was obtained from microcrystalline cellulose. Corn stover presented more amorphous regions leading to higher hydrolysis yields of its cellulose fraction.
Soft and bone tissue responses in a single posterior implant site: a prospective randomized controlled trial comparing customized and regular emergence profiles
Authors: Cai Xiaoxiao , Zhou Mi , Zeng Huimin , Ge Yichen , Zhang Tianxu
Published: October 2023

The emergence profile (EP) of an implant restoration plays an essential role in stabilizing peri-implant tissues. However, to date, relatively few studies have focused on EP, particularly in the posterior regions. This prospective randomized controlled study observed and compared changes in peri-implant tissues between customized and traditional EPs. After re-open surgeries, 40 patients who accepted implant placement in molar sites with supracrestal mucosal thickness ≥ 3 mm were randomly assigned the test or regular group. Clinical data were collected 1 week after reopening surgery (T0), before and after computer-aided design/computer-aided manufacturing abutment placement (T1a and T1b), before and after definitive restoration placement (T2a and T2b), and 6 months after loading (T3). Radiographic data were recorded at T2b and T3. Changes in gingival width and papilla height in the test group were greater than those in the regular group from T2b to T0. The papilla height, papilla proportion, papilla index score, and black triangles were significantly ameliorated in the test group at T2b. Changes in papilla height, plaque index, patient satisfaction, and food impaction at T3 significantly improved in the test group. However, there were no significant differences in marginal bone loss between the two groups at T3. In summary, customized EP effectively increased the papilla height and decreased the risk of black triangles and peri-implantitis; thus, it is a potential alternative option for prosthodontists.
Oculocutaneous albinism type 7: Overlap and differences with other types of non-syndromic albinism
Authors: Kruijt CC , de Wit GC , Minderhout H. M. van , Schalij-Delfos NE , Genderen MM van
Published: October 2023

Purpose: To expand on the phenotype of oculocutaneous albinism type 7 (OCA7).
Patients and Methods: We describe three patients with OCA7: two from a consanguineous family of Kurdish origin and one patient of Dutch origin. We compare them with all patients described to date in the literature.
Results: All newly described patients had severely reduced visual acuity (VA), nystagmus, hypopigmentation of the fundus, severe foveal hypoplasia, and chiasmal misrouting. None had iris translucency. All patients had normal pigmentation of skin and hair. We found one novel mutation in the Dutch patient: c.565G>A; p.(Gly189Ser).
We compared our patients to the 15 described in the literature to date. All 18 patients had substantially pigmented skin and hair, very poor VA (0.4-1.3 logMAR), nystagmus, (mild) ocular hypopigmentation, foveal hypoplasia, and misrouting.
Discussion: Although pigmentation levels are mildly affected in OCA7, patients have a severe ocular phenotype with VA at the poorer end of the albinism spectrum, severe foveal hypoplasia, and chiasmal misrouting. OCA7 patients have a phenotype restricted to the eyes, and similar to that of X-linked ocular albinism. We therefore propose to rename the disorder in ocular albinism type 2. Unfolding the role of LRMDA in OCA7, may bring us a step closer in identifying the responsible factors for the co-occurrence of foveal hypoplasia and misrouting.
Seismic Fragility Assessment of Seismically Isolated Buildings subjected to Residual Displacements
Authors: ŞEN Furkan , ALTUNIŞIK Ahmet Can , SUNCA Fezayil
Published: October 2023

This study addresses the effects of different initial residual displacements of isolators on the seismic vulnerability of isolated reinforced concrete (RC) buildings with Lead Rubber Bearing (LRB). Based on the ground motion intensity measure chosen as peak ground acceleration (PGA), fragility functions were derived using a lognormal cumulative distribution function. The maximum likelihood method was used to determine the statistical parameters which are the median and logarithmic standard deviation of fragility function. Four damage states including slight, moderate, extensive, and collapse associated with maximum isolator displacement were considered for fragility analysis. To investigate the effect of the initial residual displacements of isolators and their direction on seismic responses, six different permanent displacement values were taken into account as initial conditions of the nonlinear analyses. Analyses were performed by using a ground motion set applied to the orthogonal and vertical directions of the selected RC building. The results show that structures with initial residual displacements are more vulnerable compared to those without. However, the effect of the direction of residual displacement on structural behavior is negligible. The variability of the probability of exceedance in the slight damage state is considerably higher across different magnitudes of residual displacement. This variability decreases as the damage state becomes more severe.
Multichannel mapping of in vivo rat uterine myometrium exhibits both high and low frequency electrical activity in non-pregnancy
Authors: Garrett Amy Susan , Roesler Mathias William , Athavale Omkar Nitin , Du Peng , Means Shawn Adrian , Clark Alys Rachel , Cheng Leo Koon-Wah
Published: October 2023

The uterus exhibits intermittent electrophysiological activity in vivo. Although most active during labor, the non-pregnant uterus can exhibit activity of comparable magnitude to the early stages of labor. In this study, two types of flexible electrodes were utilized to measure the electrical activity of uterine smooth muscle in vivo in anesthetized, non-pregnant rats. Flexible printed circuit electrodes were placed on the serosal surface of the uterine horn of six anesthetized rats. Electrical activity was recorded for a duration of 20–30 minutes. Activity contained two components: high frequency activity (bursts) and an underlying low frequency ‘slow wave’ which occurred concurrently. These components had dominant frequencies of 6.82 ± 0.63 Hz for the burst frequency and 0.037 ± 0.014 Hz for the slow wave frequency. There was a mean burst occurrence rate of 0.76 ± 0.23 bursts per minute and mean burst duration of 20.1 ± 6.5 s. The use of multiple high-resolution electrodes enabled 2D mapping of the initiation and propagation of activity along the uterine horn. This in vivo approach has the potential to provide the organ level detail to help interpret non-invasive body surface recordings.
A Semi-Probabilistic Seismic Hazard Assessment of Büyükçekmece Using Ground Motion Simulations
Authors: Süleyman Hakan , Çaktı Eser
Published: October 2023

This study presents a comprehensive seismic hazard assessment for Büyükçekmece, a district in Istanbul, Turkey, situated near the seismically active North Anatolian Fault (NAF). Utilizing stochastic ground motion simulations with the validated EXSIM algorithm, the study focuses on understanding the potential impact of medium to large magnitude earthquakes (ranging from 6.3 to 7.42) on this vulnerable community. The research employs a site-specific approach, considering unique amplification factors for each location, enhancing the accuracy of ground motion modeling. By conducting 50 scenario-based simulations, the study assesses the seismic hazard, highlighting the importance of comprehending variations in ground motion, even when they are small, for a more precise hazard assessment. Furthermore, this study addresses the critical issue of uncertainty, particularly concerning stress parameters and hypocenter locations. The researchers demonstrate that variability in these factors can introduce substantial uncertainty in ground motion predictions. Through probabilistic assessments involving multiple scenarios and stress drop values, the study provides insights into the range of potential ground motion outcomes. Notably, the results indicate that ground motion levels vary with earthquake magnitudes and underscore the significance of accounting for this variability. This research emphasizes the seismic vulnerability of Büyükçekmece and the importance of accurate ground motion simulations, offering valuable insights for earthquake preparedness and mitigation efforts in the region.
Grain size-dependent pollution levels in clastic sedimentary rocks, the example of the Eocene aged sequence (NE Türkiye)
Authors: Eker Çiğdem Saydam
Published: October 2023

This study describes the role of grain size in controlling the pollution levels in clastic sedimentary rocks, by presenting results from the Eocene sequence in NE Türkiye. The mean concentrations of the potentially toxic elements (PTEs) declined in order of Ni(179) > Zn(89.6) > Cu (62.5 ) > Cr(24.6) > As(15.9 ) > Pb(13.8) > Cd(0.21) > Hg(0.11) in the shale/marl and Ni(113) > Zn(48.2) > Cu(22.3) > Cr(21.7) > As(10.8) > Pb (7.4) > Hg(0.09) > Cd (< 0.1) the in sandstone. Among the PTEs, Ni, Cu, As, Cd, and Hg in the shale/marls, and Ni, As, and Hg in the sandstones were enriched to the upper continental crust. Based on the values of the enrichment factor shales/marls were “minor enrichment” – “very severe enrichment” with As and “moderate enrichment” – “moderately severe enrichment” with Ni, and the sandstones were “moderate enrichment” – “very severe enrichment” with As and “moderate enrichment – “moderately severe enrichment” with Ni, respectively. The potential ecological risk index indicated that the PTEs in the shale/marl samples have a moderate to considerable potential ecological risk and the sandstone samples pose a low to moderate potential ecological risk. In a shale sample, the hazard quotienting, and hazard index values of the As were found to be greater than 1 for children. The carcinogenic risk indexing values of the As in the samples are higher than the acceptable level of risk for children. The multivariate statistical analysis summarized that PTEs accumulation in the Eocene sedimentary sequence was related to anthropogenic, hydrothermal fluid, and lithological influence.
Electrodeposition of polyaniline on reduced graphene oxide/cotton yarn with tunable electrochemical performance for flexible textile supercapacitors
Authors: Li Lin , Du Dou , He Chengen , Han Kun , Xu Weilin , Xia Liangjun , Cai Guangming , Cui Xun , Chen Yihuang , Yu Lianqing , Kong Lingxue
Published: October 2023

Graphene/cotton fibres, an all-organic and all-textile combination, show significant promise in the realm of wearable energy storage by reason of their light weight, low cost, porous structure, and exceptional integration ability into wearable systems. However, the use of eco-unfriendly reductants and limited specific capacity caused by a standalone electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC) hindered their application. Herein, an environmentally friendly and rapid hydrothermal-electrodeposition method was proposed to fabricate cotton yarns wrapped with polyaniline (PANI) decorated reduced graphene oxide (rGO) without using any chemical reductants and oxidants. The PANI/rGO/cotton (PRC) yarn demonstrated a tunable energy storage capacity through the regulated aniline content in electrolyte and current sweep during the electrodeposition. The PRC yarn electrode exhibits a hierarchical porous conductive layer, tightly bound heterogeneous interface, and synergistic energy storage contribution and then exhibits a compelling capacitance of 81.2 mF cm−1 at 0.2 mA cm−1. The yarn supercapacitor based on PRC electrode shows a good capacitance (19.8 mF cm−1 at 0.08 mA cm−1), excellent energy-power density (2.7 μWh cm−1 at 40 μW cm−1), and great capacitance retention (83% after 8000 cycles). This environmentally friendly synthesis of PANI/rGO/ cotton yarns brings new insights into the development of textile-based wearable energy application.