bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Applying King's Theory of Goal Attainment combined with FMEA-PDCA quality management tool in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus health education: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lin Canying , Lin Huayong , Xu Yaoyao , Guan Qingzhen , Su Bilan , Ge Li
Published: May 2024

Background
Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a prevalent obstetric complication that impacts both maternal and neonatal health by increasing the risk of adverse outcomes such as preterm birth and macrosomia. Traditional health education methods for GDM lack in clinical efficacy due to the absence of timely evaluation and personalized feedback, a gap attributed to the insufficient integration of nursing theories and quality management tools. This study aims to explore a novel approach for clinical health education in GDM patients by evaluating the efficacy of combining King’s Theory of Goal Attainment and the Failure Modes and Effects Analysis with the Plan-Do-Check-Act (FMEA-PDCA) quality management tool.
Methods
The study was conducted among pregnant women attending tertiary hospitals in Fujian Province from March 1, 2022, to May 31, 2023. Eligible participants were randomly divided into two groups (59 per group), via a computer-generated randomization method, to receive either an innovative health education integrating King’s Theory and FMEA-PDCA or conventional education, respectively. We measured and evaluated the changes in blood glucose, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), anxiety levels, quality of life, and pregnancy outcomes pre- and post-intervention.
Results
Following the intervention, the experimental group showed significantly lower fasting blood glucose, improved anxiety levels and quality of life (P<0.001), and a reduced rate of cesarean sections compared to the control group (P = 0.037). No significant differences were found in HbA1c levels (P = 0.671) and several pregnancy-related complications across both groups (P>0.05).
Conclusion
The integration of King’s Theory with the FMEA-PDCA tool in health education significantly enhances the educational quality and clinical outcomes for GDM patients, suggesting a promising strategy for clinical practice.
Clinical trial registration:
http://www.chictr.org.cn (ChiCTR2400083435).
The relationship between micronutrients and cognitive ability in an elderly population with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Akhgarjand Camellia , Hashemi Rezvan , Amini Maryam , Rasekhi Hamid , Farazandeh Dorreh , Etesam Farnaz , Rasooli Aziz , Houjaghani Hirad , Faezi Sholeh , Vahabi Zahra
Published: May 2024

Background: Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) are significant neurodegenerative disorders with increasing prevalence worldwide. Lifestyle and dietary factors, including micronutrients, have been suggested as modifiable risk factors for disease development. This study aims to investigate the association between micronutrients and cognitive ability in these diseases.
Methods: A cross-sectional, randomized controlled study was conducted, involving 105 participants with MCI and AD. Dietary assessments were performed using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and micronutrient intake was calculated based on nutrient content. Disease severity was evaluated using the Functional Assessment Staging Tool (FAST). Statistical analyses, including correlation coefficients and multiple regression models, were employed to examine the association between micronutrients and disease progression.
Results: The results revealed significant correlations between disease severity and several micronutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids (B = -0.2, P = 0.01), carotenoids (B = -0.19, P = 0.02), antioxidants (B = -0.19, P = 0.02), selenium (B = -0.17, P = 0.03), alpha-carotene (B = -0.16, P = 0.04), beta-carotene (B = -0.17, P = 0.03), and lycopene (B = -0.16, P = 0.04). Multivariate regression analysis showed that higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids was associated with slower disease progression. Furthermore, the levels of these micronutrients declined in advanced stages of the disease.
Conclusion: Omega-3 fatty acids, carotenoids, and antioxidants may affect the cognitive ability and disease progression. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to establish causality and explore the therapeutic implications of these findings for the prevention and management of MCI and AD.
Feasibility of time-restricted eating during pregnancy and effect on glycemic control in people with increased risk of gestational diabetes – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Moholdt Trine , Haganes Kamilla , Sujan Md Abu Jafar , Gellein Trine , Johansen Mariell , Salvesen Kjell , Hawley John , Skarstad Hanna
Published: May 2024

Time-restricted eating (TRE) is a nutritional intervention that confines the daily time-window for energy intake. TRE reduces fasting glucose concentrations in non-pregnant individuals, but whether this eating protocol is feasible and effective for glycemic control in pregnancy is unknown. The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the feasibility and effect of a 5-week TRE intervention among pregnant individuals at risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), compared with a usual-care control group. Participants underwent 2-h oral glucose tolerance tests and estimation of body composition, before and after the intervention. Interstitial glucose levels were continuously measured, and adherence rates and ratings of hunger were recorded daily. Thirty of 32 participants completed the trial. Participants allocated to TRE reduced their daily eating window from 12.3 (SD 1.3) to 9.9 (SD 1.0) h, but TRE did not affect glycemic measures, blood pressure, or body composition, compared with the control group. TRE increased hunger levels in the evening, but not in the morning, and induced only small changes in dietary intake. A 5-week TRE intervention was feasible for pregnant individuals with increased risk of GDM but had no effect on cardiometabolic outcomes.
Complex burn prioritization models as a decision-support tool for managing prescribed fires in large, heterogeneous landscapes: an example from Everglades National Park, Florida, USA
Authors: Nocentini Andrea , Alarcon Caryl , Gue Michael , Mullins Troy , Ruiz Pablo , Tupaj Mayavati , Kominoski John S. , O'Brien Joseph , Ross Michael
Published: May 2024

Background
Prescribed fire is an essential strategy employed by natural resource managers to serve ecological objectives of fire management. However, limited operational resources, environmental conditions, and competing goals result in a finite number of burn days, which need to be allocated towards maximizing the overall benefits attainable with fire management. We developed a decision-support framework and a burn prioritization model for wetlands and wildland-urban interfaces in Everglades National Park (Florida, USA). The model included criteria relative to the conservation of plant communities, the protection of endangered faunal species, the protection of human life, the protection of cultural, archeological, and recreational resources, and the control of invasive plant species. A geographic information system was used to integrate the multiple factors affecting fire management into a single spatially and temporally explicit management model, which provided a quantitative computations-alternative to decision making that is usually based on qualitative assessments.
Results
The model outputs were 50-meter grid maps showing prioritization scores for the pixels which are targets of prescribed fire. During the 50 years of simulated prescribed fires run for model validation, the mean burned surface corresponded to 716 ± 501 km2 y− 1. Mean fire return intervals, simulated for marshes, prairies, and pine rocklands were 9.9 ± 1.7, 7.3 ± 1.9, 4.0 ± 0.7 years, respectively. Mean fire return intervals, simulated within the A. maritimus mirabilis, A. troglodyta floridalis and S. acis bartrami butterflies, and E. floridanus critical habitats were 7.4 ± 1.5, 3.9 ± 0.2, 6.5 ± 2.9 years, respectively.
Conclusions
By performing fine-scale spatial computations, the model supported diverse fire regimes across the wetland landscape, based on spatial variability of ecosystem types and species habitats, while satisfying the need to protect human life, cultural heritage, and infrastructure. Employment of the burn prioritization model will allow the achievement of optimal or near-optimal fire return intervals for the higher-priority conservation objectives, by applying a quantitative methodology to fire management planning. We recommend using decision-support frameworks and models for managing fire return intervals, while also accounting for finer-scale fire characteristics, such as patchiness, seasonality, severity, and intensity.
Diversity of Lepidoptera: A Comparative Analysis of Butterfly Populations in Zunheboto District, Nagaland, India
Authors: MISHRA JYOTI RANJAN , ACHUMI TOBOLI K , DEB MITRAJIT
Published: May 2024

In recent times, butterflies have been frequently utilized as bioindicators for assessing environmental changes around us. With over the last few decades, urbanization and modernization of northeast India are taking place in an overwhelming and very fast pace. In this study, butterfly diversity and their habitat preferences were evaluated in the Zunheboto district of Nagaland, India. The aim of this study was the evaluation of changes in species composition across different habitats over time. This study records 43 species across six families and employs direct observation methods across jhum fields of different ages (15 years and 5 years old, respectively) and village areas to derive species richness and diversity indices. Our results indicate a significant presence of the Nymphalidae family, with 24 species, implying high adaptability to various habitats. The more recent jhum fields showed an increase in biodiversity, showing vegetation destruction, thus more light penetration, and hence it becomes easier for the generalist species to colonize. The study also underlines the ecological significance of village areas as biodiversity hotspots supporting unique species not found in agricultural fields. Such findings bring out the need for habitat preservation and emphasize the potential resilience of butterfly populations towards environmental changes under sustainable management. The paper sheds light on understanding changes in butterfly diversity with respect to habitat changes and underlines the necessity of conservation strategies to incorporate habitat protection and sustainable land use practices.
Unravelling features of the peculiar galaxy ESO 287-IG50
Authors: Freitas-Lemes Priscila , Rocha-Poppe Paulo César da , Faúndez-Abans Maximiliano , de Oliveira-Abans Mariângela , Rodrigues Irapuan , Tello Julio César , Fernandes-Martin Vera Aparecida
Published: May 2024

This observational study investigates the effects of interaction on the kinematics and chemical abundance of the peculiar galaxy ESO 287-IG50, which may be a polar ring galaxy in an ongoing formation process. The study utilized BVRI broad band imagery and longslit spectroscopy in the wavelength range of 4240 − 8700 ̊A, and empirical methods were used to investigate the metallicity of the H II regions in ESO 287-IG50 and its implications on its formation history. The STARLIGHT stellar population synthesis code was used to analyze the data,and standard diagnostic diagrams were employed to classify the main ionizing source of selected emission-line regions. Image analysis using filtering techniques revealed an inner ring with perpendicular structures at both ends, which could be the inner part of a bisymmetric spiral structure. Photometric analysis showed dusty filaments crossing the central structure, which was identified as the redder region of the galaxy, dominated by a non-negligible amount of dust. Shell-like structures, which could be remnants of a galaxy merging process, were also found. Image analysis through filtering revealed what appears to be an inner ring, with perpendicular structures at both ends, which could be the inner part of a bisymmetric spiral structure. Photometric analysis shows dusty filaments crossing the central structure. This region would be dominated by a non negligible amount of dust, identified as the redder region of the galaxy. A heliocentric radial velocityof 17 689 ± 45 km s-1 was measured, and the velocity profile exhibited a clear rotational behavior, with peak velocities of 110 km s-1 to the SW and 80 km s-1 to the other side. The analysis of the nuclear region using the STARLIGHT code revealed a stellar population consisting of approximately one-third young stars and two-thirds old stars. The predominance of an aged stellar population, a distinctive feature in galaxies undergoing interaction processes, can be attributed to the prolonged evolutionary period of this galaxy, as evidenced by the shell structures we identified as indicators of this interaction process. The [N II]λ6584/Hα ratio suggests that ESO 287-IG50 may be an AGN due to the excess of Nitrogen relative to Hydrogen in the residual spectrum, a feature not yet reported in the literature. Studying the line ratios and EW(Hα), we notice that this galaxy exhibits a peculiar AGN, with a non-stellar origin ionization mechanism.
Quantitative plant resistance enhances pathogen adaptation to ecological stresses
Authors: Zhan Jiasui , Zhan Jiasui , Yang Li-na , Yang Li-na , Pan Zhechao , Pan Zhechao , Nkurikiyimfura Oswald , Nkurikiyimfura Oswald , Lu Jianjun , Lu Jianjun , Wang Yan-Ping , Wang Yan-Ping , Wang Ying , Wang Ying , Waheed Abdul , Waheed Abdul , Fang Hanmei , Fang Hanmei , Thrall Peter , Thrall Peter , Burdon Jeremy , Burdon Jeremy , Sui Qijun , Sui Qijun
Published: May 2024

Host-pathogen interactions play an important role in shaping ecosystems with many fundamental and applied implications. However, many aspects of the processes, consequences and mechanisms of these antagonistic interactions are still unknown. Evolutionary theory hypothesizes that quantitative plant resistance (QPR) enhances pathogen pathogenicity, therefore, threatening ecological function and sustainability but this hypothesis has rarely been tested empirically. Here, we present results from an eco-evolutionary study of a quantitative plant-pathogen interaction using 16 potato varieties and >2000 Phytophthora infestans strains. Twelve functional traits in the P. infestans populations derived from the varieties were compared. Our results indicate that QPR enhances pathogen pathogenicity and facilitates pathogen adaptation to other disease management attempts including the development of qualitative plant resistance and fungicides, and to environmental and chemical stresses including salinity, UV radiation, H2O2, heat and cold. QPR also increases pathogen spore production and potential of sexual recombination thereby enhancing the generation of new variation for adaptation. Genome-wide analyses indicate that the observed patterns of functional variation result from escalated selection from potato with higher QPR and that a substantial of genome are involved in the adaptation genetically and epigenetically. Our results highlight a potential risk to ecological function and resilience associated with continuing deployment of QPR, particularly under future climate conditions and are expected to stimulate further investigation into this important phenomenon with many host-pathogen systems.
Vitamin D binding protein induces skeletal muscle atrophy and contributes to cancer-associated muscle wasting
Authors: Filigheddu Nicoletta , Raiteri Tommaso , Reano Simone , Scircoli Andrea , Zaggia Ivan , Antonioli Alessandro , Faletti Stefania , Favero Francesco , Manfredi Marcello , Pelicci Giuliana , Cora' Davide , Scotti Lorenza , Kew Richard , Prodam Flavia , Porporato Paolo
Published: May 2024

The maintenance of skeletal muscle is of pivotal importance, as its loss is often associated with progressive pathologies, generally worsening the prognosis. Increased levels of vitamin D binding protein (VDBP) were reported in diseases susceptible to muscle wasting, including several tumors. We hypothesized that VDBP might participate in muscle wasting and investigated its direct effects on skeletal muscle homeostasis. Here we demonstrate that VDBP induces atrophy independently of vitamin D. In C2C12 myotubes, we identified intracellular actin dynamics perturbation and subsequent mitochondrial dysfunction as the main molecular mechanisms of VDBP-induced atrophy. Coherently, the ectopic introduction of VDBP in mice lacking the protein (Gc-knockout mice) induced muscle atrophy and decreased strength. Finally, we present proof-of-concept evidence that VDBP contributes to cancer-associated muscle wasting. Altogether, these findings provide novel insights into the biological function of VDBP as a pro-atrophic hormone with potential implications for the treatment of muscle wasting.
Deep learning for discriminating non-trivial conformational changes in molecular dynamics simulations of SARS-CoV-2 spike-ACE2
Authors: Santos Lucas Moraes dos , Mendonça José Gutembergue , Lobo Yan Jeronimo , de Lima Leonardo Henrique Franca , Rocha Gerd Bruno , de Melo-Minardi Raquel Cardoso
Published: May 2024

Purpose: Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations produce a substantial volume of high-dimensional data, and traditional methods for analyzing these data pose significant computational demands. Advances in MD simulation analysis combined with deep learning-based approaches have led to the understanding of specific structural changes observed in MD trajectories, including those induced by mutations. In this study, we model the trajectories resulting from MD simulations of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein-ACE2, specifically the receptor-binding domain (RBD), as interresidue distance maps, and use deep convolutional neural networks to predict the functional impact of point mutations, related to the virus's infectivity and immunogenicity.
Results: Our model was successful in predicting mutant types that increase the affinity of the S protein for human receptors and reduce its immunogenicity, both based on MD trajectories (precision = 0.718; recall = 0.800; F1 = 0.757; MCC = 0.488; AUC = 0.800) and their centroids. In an additional analysis, we also obtained a strong positive Pearson's correlation coefficient equal to 0.776, indicating a significant relationship between the average sigmoid probability for the MD trajectories and binding free energy (BFE) changes. Furthermore, we obtained a coefficient of determination of 0.602. Our 2D-RMSD analysis also corroborated predictions for more infectious and immune-evading mutants and revealed fluctuating regions within the receptor-binding motif (RBM), especially in the the β1’/β2’ -C loop. This region presented a significant standard deviation for mutations that enable SARS-CoV-2 to evade the immune response, with RMSD values of 5Å in the simulation.
Conclusion: This methodology offers an efficient alternative to identify potential strains of SARS-CoV-2, which may be potentially linked to more infectious and immune-evading mutations. Using clustering and deep learning techniques, our approach leverages information from the ensemble of MD trajectories to recognize a broad spectrum of multiple conformational patterns characteristic of mutant types. This represents a strategic advantage in identifying emerging variants, bypassing the need for long MD simulations. Furthermore, the present work tends to contribute substantially to the field of computational biology and virology, particularly to accelerate the design and optimization of new therapeutic agents and vaccines, offering a proactive stance against the constantly evolving threat of COVID-19 and potential future pandemics.
Spatiotemporal variation characteristics, sources and trends of air quality in special region from 2016 to 2020 - A case study of Panzhihua, China
Authors: Yang Yan , Wu Xiqiao , Huang Xing , Liu Chaorong , Luo Dan
Published: May 2024

This study based on daily data of six major pollutants (PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2, CO and O3) from 2016 to 2020, the spatiotemporal variation characteristics of air quality in Panzhihua and its surrounding cities were analyzed. On this basis, trajectory model is used to analyze the origin and direction of migration of the pollutants in the days with high pollution degree, so as to find a method to prevent and control the air pollution in the cities with special geographical location. The results show that the concentration of pollutants in the study area showed an overall downward trend, but Ozone showed an opposite trend. The air quality in the study area has been significantly improved. Air quality was the best in 2018, followed by 2020. The annual variation trend of PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2 and CO is U-shaped (flat W), while the O3 is M-shaped. In addition, the monthly average concentration of pollutants in Panzhihua is higher than these in its surrounding cities. O3 has a significant correlation with its various precursor pollutants, and the air pollution situation is complex and diverse. According to the analysis of pollutant diffusion trajectory, the direction of pollution source in Panzhihua city is southwest and the diffusion direction is east and southeast.
Exploring the impact of thermal and surface characteristics of burning wood on water droplet evaporation
Authors: Albadi Ahmed , Lai Yufeng , Fisk Callum , Hobbs Matthew , Davies Matthew , Willmott Jon , Zhang Yang
Published: May 2024

The effect of wood surface features on droplet spread and evaporation are crucial mechanisms of suppression in wildfire. In this work, we report the first investigation into the mechanism of wood surface cooling by characterising the thermal and surface features of burning wood impacted by a water droplet. A distilled water droplet with a diameter of 2 mm was applied by an on-demand droplet generator and impacted the top surface of a burning wood sample at a speed of 2 m/s. The process was captured by an innovative imaging system, containing a visual camera, two thermal cameras, and an infrared radiation thermometer (IRT) to evaluate droplet impact, droplet evaporation time, droplet temperature evolution, surface wetting, and surface temperature. Additionally, the surface roughness of wood samples was assessed using a non-contact optical method to study texture variation at different burning stages. The results of this study indicated that evaporation time for droplets under the same conditions varied depending on the burning stage of the impacted wood samples. Three stages of droplet lifetime were observed: spreading, combined absorption and evaporation, and evaporation of absorbed water. At maximum spreading, the droplet experiences pinning, causing the contact area to remain constant until depletion of the visible water layer on the surface. Rapid heating of droplets was observed after spread on the surface. The effect of wood surface structures on evaporation of droplets is reported. Insights into these mechanisms contribute to the optimisation of fire suppression strategies, especially in enhancing the efficacy of broadly implemented water-based suppression systems in varied fire scenarios.
Evaluation of PRDM10 Gene Rearrangement by Immunohistochemical and Molecular Methods in Pleomorphic Soft Tissue Tumors
Authors: Aksin Merve , Erdogan Kivilcim Eren , Mirioglu Akif , Toyran Tugba , Gonlusen Gulfiliz
Published: May 2024

Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas are aggressive soft tissue tumors that do not exhibit any identifiable histological differentiation. Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas (UPS) occupies a significant place among soft tissue tumors, although less commonly seen benign mimickers like low-grade myxofibrosarcomas (low-grade MFS), superficial CD34-positive fibroblastic tumors (SC34FT), myofibroblastic sarcomas, myxoinflammatory fibroblastic sarcomas (MIFS) and pleomorphic hyalinizing angiectatic tumors (PHAT) should not be forgotten in the differential diagnosis. In recent years, PRDM10 fusion transcript has been detected in soft tissue tumors with pleomorphic morphology. In our study, we aimed to detect PRDM10 gene rearrangement in soft tissue tumors with pleomorphic morphology using immunohistochemical and molecular methods and to evaluate them with clinicopathological findings. Pleomorphic soft tissue tumors with low mitotic and necrotic scores; which originally diagnosed as UPS, MFS, myofibroblastic sarcoma, and PHAT (totally 33 cases), were selected. In our study, five cases showed immunohistochemical positivity with PRDM10; two cases showed both nuclear and cytoplasmic staining while three showed only cytoplasmic staining and four cases had break-apart signals with FISH. We found that two cases initially diagnosed as low-grade UPS which showed break-apart signals in FISH, may actually be SC34FT considering the clinical, morphological, immunohistochemical and molecular findings. The lack of PRDM10 staining in one of these two cases suggests a low sensitivity of the PRDM10 immunomarker. In conclusion, soft tissue tumors that has PRDM10 gene rearrangement, superficial location, low mitotic activity, no necrosis and CD34 positivity exhibit distinct clinical and prognostic features, suggesting potential overlap with the tumor spectrum of SC34FT.
Association of neutrophil-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and liver fibrosis: a nationally representative cross-sectional study by NHANES from 2017 to 2020
Authors: Lu Yangni , Xu Xianli , Wu Jianlin , Ji Lei , Huang Huiya , Chen Maowei
Published: May 2024

Background
The neutrophil-to-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ratio (NHR) has emerged as a promising biomarker reflecting inflammation and lipid dysregulation. Mounting evidence indicates that these metabolic disturbances play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This study aims to elucidate the interplay among NHR, NAFLD, and liver fibrosis.
Methods
This cross-sectional investigation utilized data from the 2017–2020 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Weighted multivariate logistic regression models were applied to explore the association between NHR and both NAFLD and liver fibrosis. Smoothed curve fitting and threshold effect analysis were conducted to uncover potential nonlinear relationships. Subgroup analyses were conducted to assess the consistency of these associations across different groups.
Results
The study encompassed 4602 participants. Our results demonstrated a significant positive association between NHR and NAFLD (OR = 1.09, 95% CI: 1.01–1.18). However, no significant association was found between NHR and liver fibrosis (OR = 1.02; 95% CI: 0.96–1.09). The analysis of smoothed curve fitting and threshold effect indicated an inverted U-shaped relationship between NHR and NAFLD, with a turning point at 5.92.
Conclusion
Our findings highlight a positive correlation between elevated NHR levels and NAFLD prevalence. However, no significant association was observed between NHR and liver fibrosis prevalence. Further prospective research is warranted to verify these results in a longitudinal setting.
Assessing the Impact of Auxiliary Kandar Dam Construction on Effective Lifespan of Main Kandar Dam Reservoir: A Case Study from District Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan"
Authors: alam Fakhari alam , Alam Fakhri , Bo Dong , salam Muhammad , Zhng Longyu , Khan Gul Daraz , alam Fakhari alam , ullah waheed
Published: May 2024

The current study investigated the impact of constructing the Auxiliary Kandar Dam on the Main Kandar Dam reservoir's effective lifespan in District Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Storage capacities were assessed through a grid survey, with computer software (SURFER) used for calculations. Sediment yield was determined using the HR Wallingford yield prediction Model (WSYPM). The capacity of Main Kandar Dam reservoir was 1,000,365 m³, while the Auxiliary Kandar Dam's capacity was 1,994,974 m³. Over 9 years, 196,654 m³ of sediment was deposited into the Auxiliary Kandar Dam reservoir, leading to a 9% reduction in its storage capacity. Main Kandar Dam exhibited a trap efficiency of 90.48%, which decreased with the inflow ratio dropping from 0.508 to 0.194. In 6 years, 175,501 m³ of sediment was deposited into Main Kandar Dam reservoir, resulting in a 61.78% reduction in its capacity over 41 years. Observed sediment rates for both reservoirs closely matched the WSYPM-predicted values. The construction of the Auxiliary Kandar Dam in 2014 extended the Main Kandar Dam's effective life by 34 years (2022–2056). Additional construction in 2016 or 2022 could further extend the lifespan by 80 years (2022–2102) or 68 years (2022–2090) respectively. If the left Auxiliary Dam is built in 2025, the Main Kandar Dam's life is anticipated to increase by 66 years (2022–2088). This option would extend the lifespan by 65 years beyond the current estimate, projecting a total life from 1972 to 2079 as 107 years.
Use of Nanotechnology Associated With Natural Products as a Strategy for the Control of Plutella Xylostella (Linnaeus, 1758) (Lepidoptera, Plutellidae)
Authors: de Almeida Alini , Schmitz Edinéia Paula Sartori , Peres Gisele Louro , Llinzmeier Adelita Maria
Published: May 2024

The diamondback moth is a cosmopolitan microlepidoptera considered one of the world’s most important pests of Brassicaceae. In Brazil, losses caused by this species reach one billion dollars per year. Despite the existence of natural control methods such as plant-based products and entomopathogenic fungi and bacteria, the synthetic pesticides are still the main products used to its control, which are associated to numerous harms to health and the environment. In this scenario, nanotechnology combined with natural products are promising for the formulation of new natural insecticides so, the main aim of this study was to test a new a natural nanotechnological insecticide based on Lithothamnion calcareum (Corallinaceae), a red alga associated with guar-guar, a natural biopolymer, to combat or control individuals of Plutella xylostella (Linnaeus 1758) the so-called seaweed-biopolymer solution (SbS). This solution and its respective controls at different concentrations were subjected to insecticidal viability tests by contact and ingestion on second instar larvae of P. xylostella. In the contact test, after 13 hours of exposure, 100% of the individuals were dead. In the ingestion test there was a decrease in pupal biomass and the number of eggs deposited. Therefore, the solutions at concentrations of 2.5% and 1.25% proved to be efficient in controlling P. xylostella, indicating that the seaweed-biopolymer solution can be employed as a new strategy for control and minimization of the damage caused by this pest.
Safety and feasibility of High-Frequency Oscillatory Ventilation for the control respiratory movement in patients with Thoracoabdominal Tumors receiving Heavy Ion precision Therapy
Authors: Wang Yi , Zhao Wenxue , Tang Yutian , Wang Fang , Ye Yancheng , Zhang Yanshan , Peng Xiaojing , Yang Wenyuan , Sun Yanqing , Niu Limei , Wang Yanzhi
Published: May 2024

Introduction;
The aim of this study was to investigate the safety and feasibility of the high-frequency oscillatory ventilation (HFOV) technique for the management of respiratory motion in patients with thoracoabdominal malignancies undergoing heavy ion precision therapy.
Methods;
A retrospective analysis of clinical data from 30 patients with thoracoabdominal malignant tumors treated with heavy ion therapy under the control of high-frequency oscillatory ventilation at one Cancer Hospital was conducted from January 2023 to March 2024. Patient's general conditions, respiratory motion, and other clinical parameters were analyzed and compared before, during, and after the treatment to determine the value of utilizing HFOV for managing thoracoabdominal malignancies in patients undergoing heavy ion therapy.
Results;
There was no significant difference in heart rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen saturation, or tcpCO2 before, during, or after treatment (P > 0.05). In addition, HFOV improved the patient's tcpO2 values (P < 0.001). However, the lung respiratory motion under HFOV was 1.33 ± 0.39 mm, which was significantly lower than that in the spontaneous respiration status (19.31 ± 4.22mm, P < 0.001), and "missed targeting" was not observed during radiotherapy. Throughout the treatment process, one case complicated with hypertension and hypercapnia was observed, and two patients experienced nausea and vomiting after extubation. Radiation pneumonia occurred in 1 of 30 patients, and the mean hospital stay was 22.13 ± 10.94 days. The results showed that the objective response rate was 93.1%, the complete response rate was 41.37%, and the partial response rate was 51.72%. No death occurred during the follow-up period.
Conclusion;
HFOV is safety for thoracoabdominal tumor patients to receive high doses of precise heavy ion therapy, thereby enhancing treatment efficacy. Further randomized controlled trial is needed to confirm this discovery.
Prophylactic mastectomies in patients with breast cancer and known germline pathogenetic variants: an Austrian registry
Authors: Leser Carmen , Deutschmann Christine , Dorffner Georg , Gschwantler-Kaulich Daphne , Abayev Sara , Stübler Madeleine , Reitsamer Roland , Singer Christian
Published: May 2024

Objectives
Risk-reducing surgeries are common in patients with breast cancer gene (BRCA) mutations. Certain patients develop breast cancer before they opt for these surgeries. We aimed to examine the frequency of risk-reducing mastectomies and salpingo-oophorectomy among Austrian patients with breast cancer and BRCA mutations.
Methods
In 2014, we established an Austrian registry with patients with known germline pathogenetic variants. From onset until 2018, 111 patients were recruited from four breast cancer centers. Data on the type of mastectomy, reconstructions, and complications were collected.
Results
Of all patients, 13.5% had bilateral breast cancer. Among patients with unilateral breast cancer, the majority (86.8%) opted for prophylactic mastectomy on the contralateral side. Those who underwent modified radical mastectomy were more likely to choose prophylactic surgery (p = 0.001). A total of 19.4% of patients experienced cancer relapse postoperatively. Immediate reconstructions were recorded in 71.3% of the patients. In addition, patients undergoing immediate reconstruction were more likely to undergo a prophylactic operation on the contralateral side than those with delayed reconstruction (p = 0.001). A mesh was used in 47.8% of all reconstructions. The subpectoral implant was present in 75.6% of patients and the pre-pectoral in 13.3%. A mesh was inserted in all patients with pre-pectoral implants.
Conclusion
The results indicate that the willingness for risk-reducing surgeries is high and the option for immediate reconstruction is preferably selected by the patients with breast cancer.
The Visual Midline and its Associations in Healthy Adults
Authors: Ding Ran , Stalin Amritha , Leat Susan J. , Labreche Tammy
Published: May 2024

A visual midline (VM) shift may be experienced by some individuals post-stroke, but its associations with other variables are unclear. This study explored the relationships between the VM and other vision and non-vision variables in healthy adults. Normative data were calculated, and repeatability was assessed for each test. 93 participants without a history of visual or neurological impairment were recruited. Horizontal and vertical VM were measured using a VM gauge. During visit 1, the line bisection test (LBT) for spatial neglect, ocular dominance (OD), subjective straight-ahead (SSA), and visual open loop testing were also conducted. During visit 2, all assessments were repeated in Hong Kong while participants in Canada repeated VM measurements. Results showed no significant correlation between VM gauge measurements and other vision variables for either visit (P > 0.05). Age was significantly correlated with the absolute vertical VM during the first visit (Spearman’s rho = 0.47, P < 0.001), and with the absolute horizontal VM during the second visit (Spearman’s rho = 0.30, P = 0.004). LBT and OD tests had good repeatability (Limits of Agreement for Repeatability were 4 mm for LBT and 7 cm for OD). The visual open loop and SSA had poorer repeatability. This study revealed that VM is not associated with other vision variables in healthy adults. Therefore, it may be processed by independent neurological processing. This information is important for understanding the origins of VM shift, and normative data will aid clinicians in diagnosis.
CT-based measurement and analysis of distal humerus morphology in healthy adults from Northern China
Authors: Yang Shuai , Wang Fengkun , Zhang Boyu , Ye Zhipeng , Guan Haitao , Zhang Xiaojuan , Zhang Yingze
Published: May 2024

Background This study utilized computed tomography and three-dimensional reconstruction techniques to investigate the morphological characteristics of the distal humerus in healthy adults from northern China, and compared whether there were differences in populations distal humeral data from different geographical areas.
Methods 80 standard CT images of the distal humerus were selected from the hospital's image archiving system and analysed using Mimics software. The differences in geometric and morphological parameters of the distal humerus between sexes and sides were compared, and whether there was a correlation between each parameter was investigated. The geometric and morphological parameters of the distal humerus were compared between Western and Chinese populations based on current and previous pooled results.
Results 31 morphological parameters were measured and analysed in this study. On the whole, in the morphological parameters section, the mean and standard deviation of capitellum depth, capitellum width and capitellum height were 10.83 ± 1.18 mm, 17.60 ± 2.06 mm and 21.10 ± 2.03 mm, respectively. The mean of distal humerus width and humeral metaphyseal width were 44.38 ± 4.07 mm and 58.95 ± 4.86 mm. The trochlear groove high and trochlear widthwere 16.63 ± 1.96 mm and 26.78 ± 2.96 mm. The humeral axis angle, medial crest coronal tangential angle, lateral crest coronal tangential angle, medial crest sagittal tangential angle, lateral crest sagittal tangential angle was 86.22 ± 3.27°, 43.05 ± 7.53°, 16.03 ± 7.32°, 7.52 ± 11.00° and 37.31 ± 9.10° , respectively. This study shows that all morphological parameters of the distal humerus are significantly higher in males than in females, with the exception of the trochlear offset distance. The gender differences in the angle parameters in this study were insignificant. The capitellum width (r = -0.300, P < 0.01), anterior lateral trochlear depth (r =-0.227, P< 0.05), medial crest coronal tangential angle (r = 0.307, P<0.01), olecranon fossa volume (r = -0.408, P <0.01), olecranon fossa surface area (r = -0.345, P< 0.01) and coronoid fossa surface area (r = -0.279, P<0.05) were significantly correlated with the age of the subjects. The capitellum height (P < 0.001*), lateral trochlear high (P < 0.001*), trochlear groove high (P < 0.001*), trochlear depth (P < 0.001*) and medial trochlear high (P < 0.001*) were smaller in the Chinese population compared with the Western people, while capitellum width (P < 0.001 *) and capitellum depth (P < 0.001 *) were more prominent.
Conclusion This research aims to serve as a reference for diagnosing and classifying distal humeral diseases, designing orthopedic implants, improving surgical quality and guiding patient recovery.
The precision of technical aspects in the minimally invasive Broström-Gould procedure：A Cadaveric Anatomical Study
Authors: Zhang Guolei , Li Wenqing , Yao Haibo , Tan Rongzhi , Li Chuyan
Published: May 2024

BackgroundA comprehensive understanding of the anatomy of the anterolateral ankle joint and its interrelationships is essential for advancing the development of minimally invasive Brostrom-Gould procedure, thereby enhancing surgical efficacy and minimizing postoperative complications.MethodsTen fresh human ankle specimens were dissected to observe the shape and trajectory of the lateral bundle of the inferior extensor retinaculum（IER） and its relationship with the deep fascia. To observe the relationship between the ankle capsule and the anterior talofibular ligament（ATFL）. The center of the insertion point of ATFL at the lateral malleolus was used as the reference point.The vertical distance from the reference point to the fibula tip, the horizontal distance from the reference point to the lateral branch of the superficial peroneal nerve, the shortest distance from the reference point to IER，and the narrowest width of the IER were measured. The tension of ATFL was observed and measured. To describe the minimally invasive Broström-Gould procedure according to the anatomical characteristics of the anterolateral ankle joint.ResultsAmong the 10 cases, 8 cases (80%) had double bundles of ATFL, 2 cases (20%) had single bundle of ATFL, and no outer superior oblique bundle was observed in IER. The vertical distance from the reference point to the fibula tip was 1.2±0.3(range 1.1-1.3)mm. The shortest distance from the reference point to the level of the superficial peroneal branch was 28.2±4.3(range 24.5-32.4)mm. The shortestdistance from the reference point to IER was 12.5±0.6(range 12.1-12.9)mm, and the width of IER at this point was 7.2±0.3(range 7.0-7.6)mm. The Angle between this point and the ATFL insertion and the fibula longitudinal axis was about 60°±2.8°(range 58.1°-62.1°)mm. The space between the anterolateral deep fascia of the ankle joint and the ankle capsule is very small, and only a few fat granules are separated between them. The ATFL is largely fused to the ankle capsule.ConclusionsThe results showed that in the minimally invasive Broström-Gould technique for lateral ankle stabilization, the Broström procedure actually sutured the insertion of the ATFL together with the ankle capsule to the anterior edge of the lateral malleolus. In the Gould procedure, the deep fascia was mostly reinforced with the ankle capsule. The maximum tension was obtained when the Gould suture needle direction was at an Angle of 60° to the longitudinal axis of the fibula.
Identification of disulfidptosis-related lncRNA signature using RNA-Sequencing and Bioinformatics Analysis in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Qi , Shi Xiao , Bao Yuanyuan , Chen Yue
Published: May 2024

As a novel form of regulated cell death, disulfidptosis generating a favorable opportunity in better understanding of tumor pathogenesis and therapeutic strategies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) regulate the biology functions of tumor cells with combination of variable targets. However, the prognostic value of disulfidptosis-related lncRNAs (DRlncRNAs) in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSC) remains largely unknown. Hence, we aimed to delve into the molecular characteristics of HNSC, focusing on disulfidptosis-related long non-coding RNAs (DRLs), and explore potential therapeutic strategies. We conducted lncRNA-mRNA RNA-Seq analyses on HNSC cell lines and utilized The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, comprising RNA sequencing, clinical data, and gene mutation information from 522 HNSC tumors and 44 normal tissues. Bioinformatics analyses were employed to identify DRLs associated with disulfidptosis and assess their prognostic significance. Additionally, a risk model based on three selected DRLs was constructed to investigate its correlation with patient outcomes. Tumor mutation burden and chemotherapeutic responses were also explored in relation to the risk model. Our analysis pinpointed three DRLs (LINC02434, AC245041.2, and LINC02762) significantly correlated with HNSC prognosis. qRT-PCR results validated the consistency of LINC02434 and AC245041.2. The risk model, based on these DRLs, effectively stratified patients into high- and low-risk groups, revealing distinct survival patterns. Furthermore, the risk model demonstrated independent prognostic value in HNSC. Examination of the tumor microenvironment highlighted differences between high- and low-risk groups, suggesting potential implications for immunotherapeutic approaches. Specific chemotherapeutic agents with varying sensitivities across risk groups and molecular subtypes were identified. The identified three DRLs signature emerges as a novel biomarker with predictive value for HNSC prognosis. This study provides insights into potential therapeutic avenues and contributes to our understanding of the molecular landscape of HNSC.
Mn doping improves the photocatalytic performance of CdS photocatalysts
Authors: Qi Shuyan , Li Haiyang , Zhang Kaiyao , hu Xu , Wu Shanqiang , Guan Ling
Published: May 2024

In recent years, CdS photocatalytic materials are known for their relatively narrow bandgap and high light-absorbing ability, which is favoured by a wide range of academics in the field of photocatalysis. However pure CdS photogenerated carriers are susceptible to complexation and photocorrosion, so the photocatalytic effect is not ideal. In order to improve the photocatalytic performance of CdS, to study the mechanisms of their modification, this thesis employs transition metal (Mn)-doped CdS to enhance its photocatalytic performance and improve photocorrosion. MnxCd1-xS in cubic sphalerite phase was prepared by hydrothermal method, the photocatalytic decolourisation of 50 mL of 10 mg/L MB by Mn0.2Cd0.8S at 240 min in the photocatalytic experiment was 90 %, with a reaction rate constant of 0.00982 min-1, 3.86 times that of the cubic sphalerite phase CdS. The reaction rate constant was 0.01102 min-1, which is 4.42 times greater than the hexagonal fibrous zinc ore phase CdS. The doping of Mn both led to an increase in the photocatalytic stability of CdS, the main active groups in the photocatalytic degradation of MB by MnxCd1-xS were all O2-·.