bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficient approximation of stochastic turning process based on power spectral density
Authors: Fodor Gergő , Bachrathy Dániel
Published: February 2024

In this study, we utilize stochastic cutting force to enhance the existing 1-degree-of-freedom turning model. We adopt a stochastic model to address the stochastic resonance phenomenon occurring near stability boundaries. Additionally, we introduce a simplified stochastic model with additive noise only. Our investigations reveal that, with the recommended noise intensity of 0.1% to 1%, there is no significant difference in the stability charts and mean square characteristics between the two models. As a result, we can bypass time-consuming numerical methods, as the simplified model offers an analytical approach to compute variance based on power spectral density (PSD). By combining efficient techniques such as D-separation to determine stability boundaries and the PSD-based variance calculation, we construct a heatmap that clearly outlines dangerous stochastic resonance regions within the stable domain.
A novel metric based approach of scoring early host immune response from oro- nasopharyngeal swabs predicts COVID-19 outcome
Authors: Rajput Yogita , Neral Arvind , Sherwani Nikita , Jain Vijaylakshmi , Sahu Malti , Paikra Fulsay , Lodhi Heeramani , Sundrani Omprakash , Panda Ravindra Kumar , Jain Vinit , Shammas Masood A. , Pal Jagannath
Published: February 2024

Unpredictable fatal outcome of COVID-19 is attributed to dysregulated inflammation. Impaired early adaptive immune response leads to late stage inflammatory outcome. The purpose of this study was to develop biomarkers for early detection of host immune impairment at first diagnosis from leftover RNA samples, which may in turn identify high risk patients. Leftover RNA samples of COVID-19 patients at first diagnosis were stored. Following prospective follow-up, the samples were shorted and categorized into outcome groups. Impaired adaptive T cell response (severity score) and Impaired IL-10 response (undetectable IL-10 in the presence of high expression of a representative interferon response gene) were determined by RT-PCR based assay. We demonstrate that a T cell response based ‘severity score’ comprising rational combination of Ct values of a target genes’ signature can predict high risk noncomorbid potentially critical COVID-19 patients with a sensitivity of 91% (95%CI:58.7–99.8) and specificity of 92.6% (95% CI:75.7–99)(AUC:0.88). Although inclusion of comorbid patients reduced sensitivity to 77% (95%CI:54.6–92.2), the specificity was still 94% (95%CI:79.8–99.3)(AUC:0.82). The same for ‘impaired IL-10 response’ were little lower to predict high risk noncomorbid patients 64.2% (95%CI:35.1–87.2) and 82% (95%CI:65.5–93.2) respectively. Inclusion of comorbid patients drastically reduce sensitivity and specificity51.6% (95%CI:33.1–69.8) and 80.5% (95%CI:64.0-91.8) respectively. As best of our knowledge this is the first demonstration of a metric based approach showing the ‘severity score’ as an indicator of early adoptive immune response, could be used as predictor of severe COVID-19 outcome at the time of first diagnosis using the same leftover swab RNA. The work flow could reduce expenditure and reporting time of the prognostic test for an earliest clinical decision ensuring possibility of early rational management.
Morphological Analysis of the Distal Femur as a Surgical Reference in Biplane Distal Femoral Osteotomy
Authors: Sano Shohei , Matsushita Takehiko , Nagata Naosuke , Tokura Takeo , Nukuto Koji , Nakanishi Yuta , Nishida Kyohei , Nagai Kanto , Kanzaki Noriyuki , Hoshino Yuichi , Matsumoto Tomoyuki , Kuroda Ryosuke
Published: February 2024

Distal femoral osteotomy (DFO) is performed alone or with high tibial osteotomy (HTO) for patients with osteoarthritis and distal femur deformities. DFO is technically demanding, particularly when creating an anterior flange. Herein, we examined the morphological characteristics of the distal femur based on the cortical shape as a surgical reference for biplanar DFO. Computed tomography images of 50 valgus and 50 varus knees of patients who underwent biplanar DFO or total knee arthroplasty were analyzed. Axial slices at the initial level of the transverse osteotomy in the DFO and slices 10 mm proximal and 10 mm distal to that level were selected. The medial and lateral cortical angles and heights (MCLA, LCLA, MCH, and LCH) were measured on axial slices. Statistical comparisons were performed between the medial and lateral cortices and valgus and varus knees. MCLA and MCH were significantly smaller and lower, respectively, than LCLA and LCH (P < 0.01). The MCLA and MCH of varus knees were significantly smaller and lower, respectively, than those of valgus knees (P < 0.01). Surgeons should carefully observe morphological differences in the distal femur cortex, distinguishing between medial and lateral knees and varus and valgus knees during the creation of the anterior flange in the DFO.
Endonasal endoscopic or endoscopic-assisted transcranial surgery of Rathke’s cleft cysts: does the approach and surgical technique influence the radicality and recurrence rate?
Authors: linsler stefan , Schon Laura , Fischer Gerrit , Senger Sebastian , Oertel Joachim
Published: February 2024

Objective
Resections of symptomatic Rathke’s cleft cysts (RCCs) are mainly performed via an endonasal transsphenoidal approach. However, there is a lack of equivalent data in current literature concerning transcranial keyhole approach in the treatment of RCCs. In order to find general recommendations for the surgical treatment of RCCs also with regard to recurrence, the object of this study is the analysis and comparison of both techniques.
Methods
Twenty-nine patients having been surgically treated between January 2004 and August 2019 were retrospectively analysed. The transsphenoidal approach was chosen in 16 cases and the transcranial keyhole approach in 13 cases. Both surgical techniques were analyzed and compared concerning preoperative symptoms and cyst characteristics, complications, surgical radicality, endocrinological and ophthalmological outcome and recurrences in patients´ follow up.
Results
The postoperative outcome of both techniques was identic and showed highly satisfying success rates with 92% for neurological deficits, 82% for endocrinological dysfunctions and 86% for visual deficits. In contrast, momentous postoperative complications were significantly more likely after transsphenoidal operations. After a mean follow-up time of 5,7 years, the recurrence rates of both cohorts were the same with 0% each.
Conclusions
Regarding its equal outcome with its lower complication rate, the authors suggest using the supraorbital keyhole approach for RCCs whose anatomical configuration allow both techniques. Yet, the decision should always consider the surgeon’s personal experience and other individual patient characteristics. Further studies with higher numbers of cases and longer follow-up periods are necessary to analyse the effect of the selected approach on recurrence.
Mitigation of Drought Stress Effects on Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) Callus through CaO Nanoparticles and Graphene Oxide in Tissue Culture Conditions
Authors: Yazıcılar Büşra , Nadaroğlu Hayrunnisa , Alaylı Azize , Nadar Muthukumar , Gedikli Semin , Bezirganoglu ismail
Published: February 2024

Drought stress poses a significant threat to fertile soils worldwide, triggering profound physiological, biochemical, and molecular changes in plants that adversely impact agricultural productivity. This study explores the potential of nanotechnology, specifically Calcium Oxide Nanoparticles (CaO NPs) and Graphene Oxide (GO), to ameliorate the negative effects of drought stress on two distinct alfalfa ecotypes. Seeds from Erzurum and Konya regions were regenerated in the Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium, and ensuing callus formation was induced through 2,4-D and Kinetin. The callus samples underwent a one-month treatment with varying concentrations of mannitol (50 and 100 mM), CaO NPs, and GO (0.5 and 1.5 ppm). Results revealed a decrease in dry/wet weight with increasing mannitol concentration, contrasting with an increase in weight under CaO NPs and GO treatment. Proline, DNSA, MDA, and H2O2 exhibited proportional increases under drought stress, while CaO NPs and GO treatments mitigated these effects. Physiological and biochemical analyses identified optimal conditions for Erzurum as 50 mM mannitol/2 CaO NPs/0.5 ppm GO, and for Konya as 50 mM mannitol/0.5 ppm GO. Gene expression analysis indicated up-regulation of mtr-miR159 and mtr-miR393 with heightened drought stress, with down-regulation observed in CaO NPs and GO treatments. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) confirmed Ca2+ accumulation in alfalfa tissues. In conclusion, CaO NPs and GO treatments exhibited a significant reduction in the adverse effects of drought stress on alfalfa callus under tissue culture conditions. This research sheds light on the potential of nanotechnological interventions to alleviate the impact of environmental stressors on crop plants, opening avenues for sustainable agriculture in the face of changing climatic conditions. Further investigations are warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and scalability of these findings for field applications.
3D printed scaffolds of biosilica and spongin from marine sponges: Analysis of genotoxicity and cytotoxicity for bone tissue repair
Authors: Sousa Karolyne dos Santos Jorge , de Souza Amanda , Cruz Matheus de Almeida , de Lima Lindiane Eloisa , Santo Giovanna do Espirito , Amaral Gustavo Oliva , Granito Renata Neves , Renno Ana Claudia
Published: February 2024

Biosilica (BS) and spongin (SPG) from marine sponges are highlighted for their potential to promote bone regeneration. Moreover, additive manufacturing, specifically 3D printing, is introduced as a technology for producing bone grafts with optimized interconnected porous structures, allowing for better cell attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. Thus, the aims of this study were to characterize the BS and BS/SPG 3D printed scaffolds and to evaluate the biological effects in vitro. The physicochemical characteristics of BS and BS/SPG 3D printed scaffolds were analyzed by SEM, FTIR, porosity, evaluation of mass loss, and pH measurement. For in vitro analysis, the cellular viability of the MC3T3-E1 cell lineage was assessed using the AlamarBlue® assay and SEM, while genotoxicity was evaluated through the micronucleus assay. SEM analysis revealed distinct features: the presence of spicules in BS, the fibrillar structure of SPG, and material degradation over the immersion period. FTIR indicated peaks corresponding to silicon oxide in BS samples and carbon oxide and amine in SPG samples. BS-SPG scaffolds exhibited higher porosity, while BS scaffolds displayed greater mass loss. pH measurements indicated a significant decrease induced by BS, which was mitigated by SPG over the experimental periods. In vitro studies demonstrated the biocompatibility and non-cytotoxicity of scaffold extracts. The micronucleus (MN) test further confirmed the absence of cytotoxicity in the samples. These findings suggest that 3D printed BS and BS/SPG scaffolds may possess desirable morphological and physicochemical properties, indicating in vitro biocompatibility.
Trauma team members’ perceptions of the effectiveness of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A phenomenological study
Authors: Goshu Eyayalem , Zodwa Margaret
Published: February 2024

Background
Trauma is a leading cause of mortality and disability in low- and middle-income countries, with Ethiopia having the highest percentage (26.7%) of fatalities per 100 000 inhabitants. The effectiveness and quality of trauma care in Addis Ababa city vary by hospital.
Objective
This qualitative study aimed to explore trauma team members’ perceptions of the effectiveness of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Methods
This study used a qualitative phenomenological design to analyze trauma care team members’ perceptions of the current trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. The population included trauma team members, health-care personnel, hospital leaders and coordinators from nine hospitals. The data were collected through semi structured interviews and focus group discussions. The study used the Colaizzi approach and ATLAS.ti 23 software for data analysis, employing deductive and inductive coding methodologies to identify patterns. Memos and display matrices were generated for in-depth analysis.
Results
This study identified several challenges with the trauma care system in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, including a lack of effective leadership, coordination, and teamwork spirit; insufficient referral connections in the trauma care system; knowledge gaps among health-care professionals; and poor organization of the emergency room and trauma center. In addition, factors such as insufficient pharmaceutical and medical equipment and ineffective ambulance services have contributed to the increased number of deaths and disabilities among trauma patients in the country.
Conclusion
The qualitative report highlights the gaps in Ethiopia's emergency trauma care system and recommends strategies for improvement, including clear leadership, policies, resources, communication, and continuous training.
HSV-1 immune escapes in microglia by down-regulating GM130 to inhibit TLR3-mediated innate immune responses
Authors: Liu Jia , Chen Xiqian , Liu Junxian , Zhang Hainan , Lu Wei
Published: February 2024

Purpose
To investigate the mechanism of GM130 regulating the antiviral immune response of TLR3 after HSV-1 infection of microglia cells. To explore the regulatory of berberine on GM130 and TLR3 mediated immune response.
Methods
The vitro model of HSV-1 infection was established by infecting BV2 cells with HSV-1.
Results
Compared with the uninfected group, the Golgi apparatus fragmentation and GM130 decrease after HSV-1 infected; TLR3 increased at 6h and began to decrease at 12h after HSV-1 infected ; the secretion of IFN-β, TNF-α and IL-6 increased after infection. Knockdown of GM130 aggravated the fragmentation of Golgi apparatus, and caused TLR3 to further decrease, and the virus titer also increased significantly. Knockdown of GM130 can inhibit the increase of TLR3 and inflammatory factors induced by TLR3 agonists and increase the viral titer. Over-expression of GM130 alleviated the Golgi fragmentation induced by HSV-1, partially restored the level of TLR3, and reduced the viral titer. Over-expression of GM130 reversed the reduction of TLR3 and inflammatory cytokines induced by TLR3 inhibitors. Therefore, the decrease in GM130 caused by HSV-1 infection will lead to increased viral replication by inhibiting TLR3-mediated innate immunity. Berberine can protect the Golgi apparatus and reverse the down-regulation of GM130, as well as reverse the down-regulation of TLR3 and its downstream factor factors after HSV-1 infection, reducing the virus titer.
Conclusion
In microglia, HSV-1 immune escapes by causing the GM130/TLR3 pathway to affect the secretion of inflammatory cytokines. Berberine protects the Golgi apparatus and enhances TLR3 mediated antiviral immune response.
ZO-1 remodels the cytoskeleton and boosts self-renewal in OCT4-reprogrammed human hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells through adherens junction pathway
Authors: Huang Xingang , Ruan Yingchun , Sun Pengpeng , Yu Xiaozhen , Chen Hua , Kong Qingnuan , Liu Zhijing
Published: February 2024

Background: The challenge of expanding haematopoietic stem/progenitor cells (HSPCs) in vitro has limited the clinical application of this technology. Human hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells (hHFMSCs) can be reprogrammed to generate intermediate stem cells by introducing only OCT4 (hHFMSCsOCT4). Prestimulating these cells with a low concentration of the cytokines FLT3 and SCF leads to the generation of a distinct subset, named floating hHFMSCsOCT4, which can maintain self-renewal in vitro and be induced to undergo erythropoiesis, suggesting that these cells are promising seed cells for artificial haematopoiesis.
Methods: Floating cell subsets were isolated from adherent cell subsets using centrifugation. Cell adhesion was assessed through disassociation and adhesion assays. OCT4 expression levels were measured using immunofluorescence staining, RT-qPCR, and Western blotting. RNA sequencing and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis were then conducted to identify proliferation-related biological processes enriched by the upregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Proliferative capacity was assessed using CCK-8 and colony formation assays. Cytoskeleton was observed through Wright‒Giemsa, Coomassie brilliant blue, and phalloidin staining. Expression of adherens junction (AJ) core members was confirmed through RT‒qPCR, Western blotting, and immunofluorescence staining before and after ZO-1 knockdown. A regulatory network was constructed to determine relationships among cytoskeleton, proliferation, and the AJ pathway. Student's t tests (GraphPad Prism 8.0.2) were used for group comparisons. The results were considered significant at P < 0.05.
Results: Excessive OCT4 expression weakens adhesion and causes floating hHFMSCsOCT4. These cells have moderate proliferation and undergo cytoskeleton remodeling, with increased contraction and aggregation of F-actin near the nucleus. The upregulation of ZO-1 can impact the actin, E-cadherin, and β-catenin genes, as well as the nuclear positioning of β-catenin, leading to variations in the cytoskeleton and cell cycle. Finally, a regulatory network revealed that the AJ pathway critically bridges cytoskeletal remodelling and haematopoiesis-related proliferation in a β-catenin-dependent manner.
Conclusions: Increasing OCT4 levels can remodel the cytoskeleton through the ZO-1-containing AJ pathway, potentially boosting the self-renewal ability of hHFMSCs to mimic HSPCs, suggesting a plausible mechanism for utilizing novel seed cells in artificial hematopoietic in vitro.
Algebraicity of weakly holomorphic modular functions at divisors of meromorphic modular forms for certain Fuchsian groups
Authors: Kim Chang Heon , Shin Gyucheol
Published: February 2024

We show that the values of a certain basis of weakly holomorphic modular functions on $\Gamma_{0}^{+}(N)$ at points of the divisors of any meromorphic modular form of weight $k$ on $\Gamma_{0}^{+}(N)$ with algebraic Fourier coefficients are algebraic. We also find the basis of an Eisenstein space of weight 2 on $\Gamma_{0}^{+}(N)$. As an application, we show that a certain eta quotient has only single zeros on the fundamental domain. Moreover, we give a number field containing all the values of the certain basis of $M_{0}^{\#}(\G)$ at the zeros of this certain eta quotient.
2010 Mathematics Subject Classification: 11F03, 11F12, 11F25, 11F30, 11G30, 11R04
Nutritional potential of raw or parboiled Siam weed (Chromolaena odorata) leaves as feedstuff for finishing broilers
Authors: Ogieriakhi Philemon O. , Oyedeji Johnson O.
Published: February 2024

A study was conducted using ninety finishing broiler chickens to determine the nutritional potentials of air-dried fresh and parboiled air-dried siam (Chromolaena odorata) leaves harvested lush green. The first set of leaves was air-dried with minimal sun rays and designated as fresh air-dried Chromolaena odorata leaves (FADCOL). The second set of leaves was parboiled for 10 minutes at 80oC before air-drying with minimal sun rays and was designated as parboiled air-dried Chromolaena odorata leaves (PADCOL). Both sets of processed leaves were subjected to proximate analyses. A standard broiler finisher diet formulated was used as the control dietary treatment. In the second and third treatments, 20% of the standard broiler finisher diet was replaced by FADCOL and PADCOL, respectively. Each treatment group was replicated in three places of ten broiler chickens. Nutrient retention trials were carried out using total collection method. Results showed that parboiled air-dried Chromolaena odorata leaves had numerically higher crude fat and fibre contents but lower crude protein and total ash content than the fresh samples. There were no significant differences in crude protein, crude fibre and total ash retentions among finishing broilers fed various test diets (p > 0.05). However, the dry matter and crude fat retentions were significantly influenced by dietary treatments (p < 0.05). With the comparable crude protein retention, it was concluded that Chromolaena odorata leaves, whether air dried as harvested or parboiled before air drying, had the potential for supporting growth in finishing broilers.
A novel versatile method for graphite exfoliation and graphene production using magnetic water: preparation, characterization, and simulation studies
Authors: Saeedi Shahab Alldin , Sargolzaei Javad , Fanaei Mohammad Ali
Published: February 2024

There is an increasing demand for mass production of graphene through a simple, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective method. In this study, a novel versatile method was developed to prepare high-quality mono/bilayer graphene using magnetic water. Graphene nanosheets were synthesized through this novel method and then were characterized. Furthermore, the effect of magnetic water on the exfoliation of graphite was assessed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. Magnetic water was produced in the laboratory by circulating water between two strong magnets (7000 gausses) for 2 and 6 h. The durability of magnetic water was investigated using a Magnetometer-Based Diagnostic Test. Then, the generated magnetic water was added to graphite. By adding magnetic water, the graphite absorbed more energy, creating more space between the graphite layers by weakening and breaking the van der Waals bonds and forming high-quality graphene. Finally, the formation of mono/bilayer graphene was confirmed through XRD and AFM tests. According to the results, the use of magnetic water increased graphene yield to almost 67%, while simulation studies predicted the yield of 70%. In addition, MD outputs predicted that the number of departed graphene nanosheets reached 35 and 1252 carbon atoms were stabilized in these nanosheets. According to the results of this study, magnetic water can be applied effectively in the production of graphene nanosheets.
Genomic Balancing Act: Deciphering DNA rearrangements in the Complex Chromosomal Aberration involving 5p15.2, 2q31.1 and 18q21.32
Authors: Lupski James , Dardas Zain , Marafi Dana , Duan Ruizhi , Fatih Jawid , El-Rashidy Omnia , Grochowski Christopher , Carvalho Claudia , Jhangiani Shalini , Bi Weimin , Du Haowei , Gibbs Richard , Posey Jennifer , Calame Daniel , Zaki Maha
Published: February 2024

Despite extensive research into the genetic underpinnings of neurodevelopmental disorders (NDD), many clinical cases remain unresolved. We studied a female proband with a NDD, mildly dysmorphic facial features, and brain stem hypoplasia on neuroimaging. Comprehensive genomic analyses revealed a terminal 5p loss and terminal 18q gain in the proband while a diploid copy number for chromosomes 5 and 18 in both parents. Genomic investigations in the proband identified an unbalanced translocation t(5;18) with additional genetic material from chromosome 2 (2q31.3) inserted at the breakpoint, pointing to a complex chromosomal rearrangement (CCR) involving 5p15.2, 2q31.3, and 18q21.32. Breakpoint junction analyses enabled by long read genome sequencing unveiled the presence of four distinct junctions in the father, who is carrier of a balanced CCR. The proband inherited from the father both the abnormal chromosome 5 resulting in segmental aneusomies of chr5 (loss) and chr18 (gain) and a der(2) homologue. Evidences suggest a chromoplexy mechanism for this CCR derivation, involving double-strand breaks (DSBs) repaired by non-homologous end joining (NHEJ) or alternative end joining (alt-EJ). The complexity of the CCR and the segregation of homologues elucidate the genetic model for this family. This study demonstrates the importance of combining multiple genomic technologies to uncover genetic causes of complex neurodevelopmental syndrome and to better understand genetic disease mechanisms.
An Active Learning Framework for the Rapid Assessment of Galvanic Corrosion
Authors: Zapiain David Montes de Oca , Venkatraman Aditya , Katona Ryan , Maestas Demitri , Roop Matthew , Noell Philip
Published: February 2024

The current present in a galvanic couple can define its resistance or susceptibility to corrosion. However, as the current is dependent upon environmental, material, and geometrical parameters it is experimentally costly to measure. To reduce these costs, Finite Element (FE) simulations can be used to assess the cathodic current but also require experimental inputs to define boundary conditions. Due to these challenges, it is crucial to accelerate predictions and accurately pre- dict the current output for different environments and geometries representative of in-service conditions. Machine learned surrogate models provides a means to accelerate corrosion predictions. However, a one-time cost is incurred in procur- ing the simulation and experimental dataset necessary to calibrate the surrogate model. Therefore, an active learning protocol is developed through calibration of a low-cost surrogate model for the cathodic current of an exemplar galvanic cou- ple (AA7075-SS304) as a function of environmental and geometric parameters. The surrogate model is calibrated on a dataset of FE simulations, and calculates an acquisition function that identifies specific additional inputs with the maxi- mum potential to improve the current predictions. This is accomplished through a staggered workflow that not only improves and refines prediction, but identifies the points at which the most information is gained, thus enabling expansion to a larger parameter space. The protocols developed and demonstrated in this work provide a powerful tool for screening various forms of corrosion under in-service conditions.
Which nonsurviving sepsis patients are SIRS negative during the early stage of sepsis? Identifying “silent sepsis”
Authors: Liu Taotao , Luo Jingchao , Wang Xiaogang
Published: February 2024

Background: Despite the very high sensitivity of the Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS) score for identifying sepsis, there remains a subset of septic patients who exhibit negative SIRS scores, and unfortunately, many of these patients experience poor outcomes. This study aims to investigate the factors associated with SIRS negativity during the early stage of sepsis in deceased patients, and to explore the nonlinear relationships between SIRS negativity and these factors.
Objective: To analyse the factors related to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) negativity during the early stage of sepsis in nonsurviving septic patients and to explore the nonlinear associations between SIRS negativity and related factors.
Methods: Adult septic patients were retrospectively screened in the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database from 2008 to 2019. Patients who did not survive after 28 days were assigned to the SIRS-negative or SIRS-positive group according to whether the SIRS score was less than two points within 24 hours of intensive care unit (ICU) admission. The baseline data of patients in the SIRS-negative and SIRS-positive groups were collected and compared. The factors associated with SIRS negativity in septic patients were analysed by logistic regression. The dose‒response relationships of SIRS negativity with SOFA score and age were determined with a restricted cubic spline model.
Results: A total of 53,150 patients were screened in the MIMIC-IV database, and 2706 sepsis nonsurvivors were ultimately included, 101 of whom were negative for SIRS. There were significant differences in SOFA scores between groups (8.18±3.58 vs. 9.75±4.28, P<0.001). In addition, differences in several other parameters, such as age (76 [61 to 86] vs. 72 [60 to 82], P=0.053), body mass index (26 [22 to 31] vs. 27 [24 to 32], P=0.056) and Charlson comorbidity index (8 [6 to 9] vs. 7 [5 to 9], P=0.052], approached statistical significance. Logistic regression analysis indicated that both SOFA score (OR=0.93 [95% CI=0.87-1.00], P=0.046) and age (OR=1.04 [95% CI=0.88-1.15], P=0.012) were independent factors related to SIRS negativity in septic patients. Analysis with a restricted cubic spline model showed that the odds ratio (OR) of SIRS negativity continued to increase with age, particularly for those over 80 years old (p for nonlinearity=0.024). The odds ratio of SIRS negativity was more than 1 when the SOFA score was less than 4 (p for nonlinearity=0.261).
Conclusions: In septic patients with a poor prognosis, elderly individuals (over 80 years old) are more likely to exhibit SIRS negativity during the early stage of sepsis, particularly when they present with mild organ dysfunction (SOFA score less than 4). Neither comorbidities nor BMI was related to SIRS negativity in septic patients with a poor prognosis.
Intuitionistic fuzzy pattern recognition model in assessment of the social empowerment index for Azerbaijan
Authors: Imanov Gorkhmaz , Aliyev Asif
Published: February 2024

In this work, an intuitionistic fuzzy pattern recognition model is developed to evaluate the Social Empowerment Index (SEI) for Azerbaijan which is one of the four components constituting Social Quality. The global social and economic indices are usually computed with classical methods, in which the data uncertainty and fuzziness are not taken into account. The main advantageous points of the current research are to take into account the fuzziness of input data and incurring fuzziness along the computation process which also are the main reasons for the application of fuzzy logic extension-based tools. The presented work integrates the following operations: normalisation of negative and positive affecting indicators, fuzzification of normalised data, intuitionistic fuzzy preference relation-based weight computation, checking the consistency of intuitionistic fuzzy preference relation matrices, intuitionistic fuzzy aggregation of indicators and sub-indices, and intuitionistic fuzzy pattern recognition based on similarity measures. The set-up algorithm in the proposed paper makes it a comprehensive approach in the computation of socio-economic indices, compared to the existing multiple criteria decision-making methods. The obtained results exhibit SEI levels in Azerbaijan, and the proposed approach can be applied in the analysis and estimation of other socio-economic phenomena.
18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography characteristics of a gastric tumour pre- and post-surgery in a dog: A case report of near-infrared fluorescence-guided imaging surgery using indocyanine green
Authors: Kim Su-Hyeon , Lee Sungin
Published: February 2024

Background
Gastric tumours in dogs, although uncommon, present considerable diagnostic and treatment challenges, often diagnosed late in the disease course, resulting in poor prognosis. Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence imaging with indocyanine green (ICG) and positron emission tomography (PET) using 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) offer promising approaches in human medicine for intraoperative tumour detection and metastasis assessment. However, their application in veterinary medicine, particularly in cases of canine gastric tumours, is not well-reported.
Case presentation
A 13-year-old Maltese dog with an abdominal mass underwent 18F-FDG PET/computed tomography (CT) for tumour localisation and metastatic evaluation. PET/CT scans revealed a gastric mass near the esophagogastric junction and demonstrated mean and maximum standardised uptake values (SUVs) of 4.596 and 6.234, respectively, for the abdominal mass. Subsequent surgery incorporated ICG for NIR fluorescence-guided imaging, aiding in precise tumour localisation and margin assessment. The excised mass, identified via histopathology as a low-grade leiomyosarcoma, was imaged using PET/CT post-operatively, confirming the absence of recurrence or residual lesions during follow-up.
Conclusions
This case report presents a novel application of ICG-guided surgery and 18F-FDG PET/CT in a canine gastric tumour. NIR fluorescence imaging using ICG demonstrated efficacy in real-time tumour visualisation and margin assessment, a technique not previously reported in veterinary literature. The PET/CT findings complemented the diagnosis and provided valuable insights into metastasis. The absence of recurrence or complications in postoperative follow-up underscores the potential of these imaging modalities in enhancing surgical precision and improving prognosis in canine gastric tumours.
PEELing: an integrated and user-centric platform for spatially-resolved proteomics data analysis
Authors: Li Jiefu , Peng Xi , Clements Jody , Jiang Zuzhi , Preibisch Stephan , Han Shuo
Published: February 2024

Molecular compartmentalization is vital for cellular physiology. Spatially-resolved proteomics allows biologists to survey protein composition and dynamics with subcellular resolution. Here we present PEELing, an integrated package and user-friendly web service for analyzing spatially-resolved proteomics data. PEELing assesses data quality using curated or user-defined references, performs cutoff analysis to remove contaminants, connects to databases for functional annotation, and generates data visualizations—providing a streamlined and reproducible workflow to explore spatially-resolved proteomics data.
Dynamic Changes in the Gut Microbiota Composition during Adalimumab Therapy in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis: Implications for Treatment Response Prediction and Therapeutic Targets
Authors: Oh Han Na , Shin Seung Yong , Kim Jong-Hwa , Baek Jihye , Kim Hyo Jong , Lee Kang-Moon , Park Soo Jung , Kim Seok-Young , Choi Hyung-Kyoon , Kim Wonyong , Sul Woo Jun , Choi Chang Hwan
Published: February 2024

Background
Little is known about the changes in the gut microbiota composition during anti-tumor necrosis factor-alpha (anti TNF-α) therapy. This study aimed to investigate the dynamics of gut microbiome changes during anti TNF-α (adalimumab) therapy in patients with ulcerative colitis (UC).
Results
The microbiota composition was affected by the disease severity and extent in patients with UC. Regardless of clinical remission status at each time point, patients with UC exhibited microbial community distinctions from healthy controls. Distinct amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) differences were identified throughout the course of ADA treatment at each time point. A notable reduction in gut microbiome dissimilarity was observed only in remitters. Remitters demonstrated a decrease in the relative abundances of Burkholderia-Caballeronia-Paraburkholderia and Staphylococcus, accompanied by an increase in Bifidobacterium and Dorea as the treatment progressed. Given the distribution of the 48 ASVs with high or low relative abundances in the pre-treatment samples according to clinical remission at week 8, a clinical remission at week 8 with a sensitivity and specificity of 72.4% and 84.3%, respectively, was predicted on the receiver operating characteristic curve (area under the curve, 0.851).
Conclusions
The gut microbiota undergoes diverse changes according to the treatment response during ADA treatment. These changes provide insights into predicting treatment responses to ADA and offer new therapeutic targets for UC.
Finite Element Analysis of Cold-formed Steel Z- Shape Purlin Section
Authors: Nambiar Tushara , Seth Shriya , Manoharan Kiran Prabha , Akhas Punitha Kumar
Published: February 2024

Z-shape sections are commonly used as purlin in industrial structures. This paper reports the load carrying capacity of Z-Shape purlin members by varying the stiffener configuration. The three types of stiffeners configurations have been studied namely, horizontally stiffened purlin, vertically stiffened purlin, and purlin with holes along the neutral axis. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using ABAQUS were conducted to know the load carrying capacity. Finally, the percentage of increase in the ultimate load carrying capacity of the horizontally stiffened purlin vertically stiffened purlin, and purlin with holes obtained from the FEA software was compared to the unstiffened purlin. From the analytical study, it was observed that the maximum load carrying capacity is obtained in the purlin with holes.
Synthesis and investigation of antimicrobial activity of SrWO4 nanoparticles against a panel of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria
Authors: Ghaljehei Meysam , Nasab Ali Sobhani , Nazari-Alam Ali , Marzhoseyni Zeynab
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Elevated resistance of bacteria to common antibiotics and the lack of efficient alternatives to treat bacterial infections are the main concerns of health services. Therefore, the need to figure out new therapeutic options is inevitable. Strontium Tungsten Oxide nanoparticles (SrWO4 NPs) as an antimicrobial agent have recently received attention. However, few reports have been published on its antimicrobial properties.
Material and methods: In the present study, SrWO4 NPs were synthesized by hydrothermal method. To confirm the NPs synthesis procedure, spherical morphology, and particle size, XRD, SEM, TEM, FT-IR, and EDS analysis were performed. The antimicrobial properties of SrWO4 NPs were assessed via the micro broth dilution method.
Results: The NPs size was nearly distributed 21 to 27 nm. The antibacterial effects of SrWO4 NPs against both Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 25923) and Enterococcus faecalis (ATCC 29212) and Gram-negative bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAO1), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), and Enterobacter aerogenes (ATCC 13048) were evaluated using the micro broth dilution assay. The lowest and highest minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) were observed against Enterococcus faecalis (16 µg/mL) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (256 µg/mL), respectively.
Conclusions: The chemical method can be used with high efficiency to synthesize NPs. Additionally; SrWO4 NPs could serve as a valuable antibacterial candidate, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria.
Implement overlapping clustering using K means where the points can belong to zero, one or more clusters
Authors: Somayaji Sudhanva , Shaikh Imaad Salim , Huded Vinay , Rao Dinesh , Malli Sathyendranath
Published: February 2024

Clustering is a fundamental technique in data analysis and pattern recognition, aiming to group similar data points into distinct clusters. Traditional clustering algorithms assign each data point to a single cluster, assuming that the underlying structure of the data is non-overlapping. However, real-world datasets often exhibit complex relationships, where data points may belong to multiple clusters simultaneously. This work explores the concept of overlapped clustering, wherein data points are allowed to participate in more than one cluster, accommodating the inherent flexibility and diversity present in various datasets.
In this work, we modify k-means to handle such situations where a point ‘A’ can belong to zero, one or more than one group. We propose a new way to use k-means that lets things be part of different groups. This helps show complex relationships in data. By leveraging the well-established foundation of the k-means algorithm, this work contributes a pragmatic solution to the challenge of overlapped clustering.
We test our modified method on different data, showing it can find overlapping groups better than regular k-means. This gives a simpler way to tackle overlapping clusters in data analysis, making it easier to uncover hidden patterns in today's complex datasets.
Evaluation of the Diagnostic Accuracy of Teledermatology for Skin Lesions in Patients with Inflammatory Rheumatic Diseases
Authors: Artın Gökçe Kenar , Şahin Cansu , Yazıcı Elif Irmak , Tuğrul Burcu , Güner Altuğ , Göğebakan Hasan , Gencer Ahmet Murat , Tuğsal Handan Yarkan
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic accuracy and validity of teledermatology in patients with rheumatological diseases. The study included patients with inflammatory rheumatologic diseases who reported active skin and nail lesions during follow-up. A rheumatologist first evaluated each patient, and a preliminary diagnosis of the skin/nail lesion was recorded. Following, the images of the lesions were shared with two dermatologists and preliminary diagnoses were documented. The patients were then referred to a dermatologist for a face-to-face visit and a final diagnosis was made by using additional tests or skin biopsies if needed. After six months, the same images of the lesions were evaluated by one teledermatologist again, blind to the final diagnosis. The validity and reliability of teledermatology were assessed. Also the positive predictive values were calculated for the teledermatologists and rheumatologists. The study included 113 patients (female 75.2%, mean age: 44.9 years). The two teledermatologists were in perfect agreement; the rheumatologists were in substantial agreement with the final diagnosis (λ: 0.95, 0.82, and 0.61 respectively). The inter-rater agreements of two teledermatologists were as 0.80 (p = 0. 38); the intra-rater agreement of the one teledermatologist was as 0.90 (p = 0.29). Rheumatologists' positive predictive values for the most common lesions (psoriasis, leukocytoclastic vasculitis, and erythema nodosum) were shown to be lower than teledermatologists'. Teledermatology could be used in rheumatological patients with skin/nail lesions as a viable and reliable approach. When compared to teledermatologists, rheumatologists slightly underperformed in diagnosing the most common skin/nail lesions encountered in clinical practice.
Cohesive behavior of single crystalline silicon carbide scribing by nanosecond laser
Authors: Chen Pei , Li Shaowei , Pan Rui , Yu Senyu , Qin Fei
Published: February 2024

The existing mechanical dicing process of single crystalline Silicon Carbide (SiC) is one of the main factors limiting the development of semiconductor process, which could be replaced by laser dicing potentially. However, the zones of ablation damage generated by high power laser should be well controlled. When wafer is only scribed with a thin groove by laser, thermal effect could be reduced significantly. The while scribing process includes laser grooving and subsequent mechanical cracking. The mechanical cracking by force is critical to determine the finishing quality, and spallation or irregular cross-section may be obtained if the cracking process is uncontrolled. The initiation and propagation of the crack are related to the geometry of scribed groove and the melted layer in the groove. To achieve efficient and low-damage SiC separation, the cracking behavior of SiC after laser grooving should be addressed and controllable. Since the laser grooving including thermal ablation and meltage solidification, the cracking behavior of the scribed SiC would be different to the original single crystal SiC. In this paper, cohesive zone model (CZM) is used to quantitively represent the cracking behavior of the scribed SiC. Nanosecond laser with different processing parameters is adopted to scribe SiC substrate with different geometries of grooves. To capture the cohesive behavior of the scribed SiC during cracking, the whole separation of the SiC was conducted in a three-point bending (3PB) fixture. Therefore, by inverting the load-displacement curves of 3PB with CZM embedded finite element model (FEM), the cohesive behavior is characterized by bilinear traction-separation law, which illustrated the whole cracking process numerically. The methodology established in current paper gives way to understand the SiC scribing and cracking process with quantitative cohesive parameters.
Efficacy of body acupuncture for primary insomnia: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Li Danyang , Wang Sitian , Pi Siqie , Cao Yan , Zhang Dechou , Wu Xiao , Li Sheng
Published: February 2024

Background
Primary insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can have negative effects on patients’ health and quality of life. While clinical randomized controlled trials have suggested that acupuncture is effective in treating primary insomnia, further validation is needed to compare the efficacy of body acupuncture with medication. Therefore, this protocol outlines a program to evaluate the efficacy and adverse effects of body acupuncture and medication for the treatment of primary insomnia.
Methods
A systematic search will be conducted across 8 bibliographic databases from their inception to March 1, 2024. The databases include Cochrane Library, MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, Web of Science, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Database, VIP Database, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Database (CBM). Randomized controlled trials published in English or Chinese, comparing body acupuncture with pharmacological approaches for primary insomnia, will be included. The primary outcomes of the study will be sleep quality measured by the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and clinical treatment effectiveness rate. Two reviewers will independently screen studies, extract data, and assess risk of bias. The quality of included literature will be evaluated according to the Cochrane Handbook of Risk of Bias. Meta-analysis will be conducted using Review Manager 5.4 software.
Systematic review registration
The protocol has been registered at PROSPERO(https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/ )with a registration number https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42024504740
Discussion
The findings of this study will provide credible evidence to evaluate the efficacy and safety of body acupuncture and medication in treating patients with primary insomnia.
Removal of heavy metals from wastewater using 2D MXenes: A theoretical study
Authors: Wu Xin
Published: February 2024

Water is an indispensable material for human life. Unfortunately, the developments of industrial activities have reduced the quality of water resources in the world. Meantime, heavy metals are an important factor in water pollution due to their toxicity. This study highlights the method for the capture of heavy metal ions from wastewater using the procedure of adsorption. The adsorption of toxic heavy metal ions (Pb2+, Hg2+, and Cd2+) on Ca2C and Cr2C MXene monolayers is investigated using the density functional theory. We have optimized the considered MXenes by nine DFT functionals: PBE, TPSS, BP86, B3LYP, TPSSh, PBE0, CAM-B3LYP, M11, and LC-WPBE. Our results have shown a good agreement with previously measured electronic properties of the Ca2C and Cr2C MXene layers and PBE DFT method. The calculated cohesive energy for the Ca2C and Cr2C MXene monolayers are − 4.12 eV and − 4.20 eV, respectively, which are in agreement with the previous studies. The results reveal that the adsorbed heavy metal ions have a substantial effect on the electronic properties of the considered MXene monolayers. Besides, our calculations show that the metal/MXene structures with higher electron transport rates display higher binding energy and charge transfers between the metal and Ca2C and Cr2C layers. Time-dependent density functional analysis also displayed “ligand to metal charge transfer” excitations for the metal/MXene systems. The larger Ebin for the Pb@Ca2C as well as Pb@Cr2C are according to larger redshifts which are expected (∆λ = 45 nm and 71 nm, respectively). Our results might be helpful for future research toward the application of MXene-based materials for removing wastewater pollutants.