bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influences of channel bed morphology on flow structures in continuous curved channels
Authors: Liu Yujiao , Chai Yuanfang , Yu Minghui , Zhou Yinjun
Published: August 2024

Introduction: The formation of bars and pools, characterized by concave and convex bed morphology, is a typical feature of curved rivers. The channel bed morphology has a significant influence on the flow structures in curved channels.

Methods: Based on data from physical model experiments, this study employs the RNG k-ε model and the VOF (Volume of Fluid) method to perform three-dimensional numerical simulations of flow in continuous curved channels.

Results: By comparing the variations in flow structures between channels with a flat bed and channels with bars and pools, the results show that the presence of bars and pools leads to an increase in longitudinal flow velocity on the convex bank side near the entrance of the upstream bend, while in the downstream bend it is opposite. The high-velocity region shifts slower towards the concave bank along the bend. The presence of point bars weakens the circulation near the convex bank in the upstream bend, resulting in a smaller circulation intensity. The decrease in circulation intensity is the largest (−23.91%) at the apex of the bend. In the downstream bend, the remaining circulation from the upstream bend attenuates slower in the pool and has a greater impact distance, increasing the circulation intensity in the downstream bend. The section near the bend entrance shows the largest increase in circulation intensity, with a rate of 128.18%. The unevenness of the bed topography increases the unevenness of the bed shear stress in the downstream bend.

Discussion: The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex flow structures and evolution trends in natural curved rivers, providing scientific basis for the management of curved river channels.
MSFN: a multi-omics stacked fusion network for breast cancer survival prediction
Authors: Zhang Ge , Ma Chenwei , Yan Chaokun , Luo Huimin , Wang Jianlin , Liang Wenjuan , Luo Junwei
Published: August 2024

Introduction:Developing effective breast cancer survival prediction models is critical to breast cancer prognosis. With the widespread use of next-generation sequencing technologies, numerous studies have focused on survival prediction. However, previous methods predominantly relied on single-omics data, and survival prediction using multi-omics data remains a significant challenge.

Methods:In this study, considering the similarity of patients and the relevance of multi-omics data, we propose a novel multi-omics stacked fusion network (MSFN) based on a stacking strategy to predict the survival of breast cancer patients. MSFN first constructs a patient similarity network (PSN) and employs a residual graph neural network (ResGCN) to obtain correlative prognostic information from PSN. Simultaneously, it employs convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to obtain specificity prognostic information from multi-omics data. Finally, MSFN stacks the prognostic information from these networks and feeds into AdaboostRF for survival prediction.

Results:Experiments results demonstrated that our method outperformed several state-of-the-art methods, and biologically validated by Kaplan-Meier and t-SNE.
Case report: Dupilumab: a promising treatment option for adult linear IgA bullous dermatosis with severe pruritus
Authors: Wang Li , Peng Jing , Chen Jinbo
Published: August 2024

Linear IgA bullous dermatosis (LABD) is an acquired autoimmune subepidermal blistering disorder. Diagnosis always relies on skin pathology and direct immunofluorescence (DIF), with typical linear deposits of IgA along the basement membrane zone (BMZ). The typical clinical manifestation is tense bullae arranged like the “string of pearls” companied with severe pruritus. Dapsone is often considered first-line therapy for LABD, and it is necessary to test the HLA-B*1301 gene to prevent the occurrence of dapsone-induced hypersensitivity syndrome (DHS). Here we report a case of LABD resistant to corticosteroid and sulfasalazine, while waiting for HLA-B*1301 gene test results, dupilumab was used to control severe pruritus.
Cell-specific gene networks and drivers in rheumatoid arthritis synovial tissues
Authors: Pelissier Aurelien , Laragione Teresina , Gulko Percio S. , Rodríguez Martínez María
Published: August 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a common autoimmune and inflammatory disease characterized by inflammation and hyperplasia of the synovial tissues. RA pathogenesis involves multiple cell types, genes, transcription factors (TFs) and networks. Yet, little is known about the TFs, and key drivers and networks regulating cell function and disease at the synovial tissue level, which is the site of disease. In the present study, we used available RNA-seq databases generated from synovial tissues and developed a novel approach to elucidate cell type-specific regulatory networks on synovial tissue genes in RA. We leverage established computational methodologies to infer sample-specific gene regulatory networks and applied statistical methods to compare network properties across phenotypic groups (RA versus osteoarthritis). We developed computational approaches to rank TFs based on their contribution to the observed phenotypic differences between RA and controls across different cell types. We identified 18 (fibroblast-like synoviocyte), 16 (T cells), 19 (B cells) and 11 (monocyte) key regulators in RA synovial tissues. Interestingly, fibroblast-like synoviocyte (FLS) and B cells were driven by multiple independent co-regulatory TF clusters that included MITF, HLX, BACH1 (FLS) and KLF13, FOSB, FOSL1 (B cells). However, monocytes were collectively governed by a single cluster of TF drivers, responsible for the main phenotypic differences between RA and controls, which included RFX5, IRF9, CREB5. Among several cell subset and pathway changes, we also detected reduced presence of Natural killer T (NKT) cells and eosinophils in RA synovial tissues. Overall, our novel approach identified new and previously unsuspected Key driver genes (KDG), TF and networks and should help better understanding individual cell regulation and co-regulatory networks in RA pathogenesis, as well as potentially generate new targets for treatment.
Case report: Psoriasiform eczema with immune-mediated comorbidities treated with upadacitinib
Authors: Salvi Ilaria , Parodi Aurora , Cozzani Emanuele , Burlando Martina
Published: August 2024

Immune-mediated comorbidities in patients with psoriasiform eczema are common. It can be challenging to manage multiple immune-mediated diseases, especially considering that biologic treatments are prone to causing paradoxical effects. The aim of this retrospective observational case series was to describe the course of both psoriasiform eczema and immune-mediated comorbidities in five patients treated with upadacitinib for psoriasiform dermatitis. Five patients, all male, were included. All the patients suffered from psoriasiform eczema. Moreover, two of the patients suffered from alopecia areata, two from vitiligo, one from ulcerative colitis and one from hidradenitis suppurativa. In all cases, the treatment with upadacitinib was rapidly effective on the eczema. The effectiveness on alopecia areata was good in both cases, while the results on vitiligo were only partial. The only case of ulcerative colitis achieved complete remission, while the case of hidradenitis suppurativa experience partial improvement. In conclusion, upadacitinib was effective in treating not only psoriasiform eczema, but also several immune mediated comorbidities. Additional studies are necessary to determine the efficacy of upadacitinib in alopecia areata, vitiligo and hidradenitis suppurativa.
Small molecule inhibitors as adjuvants in cancer immunotherapy: enhancing efficacy and overcoming resistance
Authors: Wu Xiaolin , Feng Nuan , Wang Chao , Jiang Hongfei , Guo Zhu
Published: August 2024

Adjuvant therapy is essential in cancer treatment to enhance primary treatment effectiveness, reduce adverse effects, and prevent recurrence. Small molecule inhibitors as adjuvants in cancer immunotherapy aim to harness their immunomodulatory properties to optimize treatment outcomes. By modulating the tumor microenvironment, enhancing immune cell function, and increasing tumor sensitivity to immunotherapy, small molecule inhibitors have the potential to improve patient responses. This review discusses the evolving use of small molecule inhibitors as adjuvants in cancer treatment, highlighting their role in enhancing the efficacy of immunotherapy and the opportunities for advancing cancer therapies in the future.
Aerobic phenol degradation using native bacterial consortium via ortho–and meta–cleavage pathways
Authors: Shebl Sara , Ghareeb Doaa A. , Ali Safaa M. , Ghanem Nevine Bahaa El Din , Olama Zakia A.
Published: August 2024

Effective bioremediation of a phenol-polluted environment harnesses microorganisms’ ability to utilize hazardous compounds as beneficial degraders. In the present study, a consortium consisting of 15 bacterial strains was utilized. The current study aims to monitor the phenol biodegradation pathway. The tested consortium showed effective potential in the bioremediation of phenol-contaminated industrial wastewater. The enzymatic studies conducted brought to light that the bacterial consortium under test was proficient in degrading phenol under aerobic conditions while exhibiting the simultaneous expression of both ortho- and meta-cleavage pathways. It was observed that pheA, pheB, and C12O genes were maximally expressed, and the enzymes responsible for phenol degradation, namely, phenol hydroxylase, catechol 1,2-dioxygenase, and catechol 2,3-dioxygenase, reached maximum activity after 48 h of incubation with a 20-ppm phenol concentration. To gain a deeper understanding of the activation of both ortho- and meta-cleavage pathways involved in phenol degradation, a technique known as differential display reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (DDRT-PCR) was applied. This method allowed for the specific amplification and detection of genes responsible for phenol degradation. The expression levels of these genes determined the extent to which both ortho- and meta-cleavage pathways were activated in response to the presence of phenol.
Genetic insights into the gut microbiota and risk of psoriasis: a bidirectional mendelian randomization study
Authors: Qian Minyu , Shi Jianxin , Zhang Zhuoya , Bi Dezhao , Tan Cheng
Published: August 2024

Background

Growing evidence indicates a potential association between the gut microbiome and psoriasis. Nevertheless, the precise nature of these associations and whether they constitute causal relationships remain unclear.

Methods

A rigorous bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study was undertaken to establish a putative causal link between gut microbiota and psoriasis. We drew upon publicly available datasets containing summary statistics from GWAS to accomplish this. Utilizing various analytical techniques, including inverse variance weighting, MR-Egger, weighted median, weighted model, and MR-PRESSO, we sought to validate the putative causal association between gut microbiota and psoriasis. A reverse Mendelian randomization analysis was conducted to further investigate the relationship.

Results

After conducting a forward Mendelian randomization analysis, a causal relationship was established between 19 gut microbiota and psoriasis. Furthermore, the reverse MR study revealed causality between psoriasis and 13 gut microbiota. Notably, no substantial heterogeneity of instrumental variables or horizontal pleiotropy was observed.

Conclusion

This research suggests a potential genetic association and causal nexus between gut microorganisms and psoriasis, indicating potential implications for the clinical management and therapy of psoriasis. Additional observational studies with a larger population sample size and animal model experiments are imperative to fully elucidate this association’s underlying mechanisms.
Causal relationship between the gut microbiota, immune cells, and coronary heart disease: a mediated Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Yang Feifei , Song Hui , Tang Weizhi , Liu Lingyun , Zhu Ziyi , Ouyang Bin , Zhang Liwen , He Guixin , Qin Weibin
Published: August 2024

Background

Recent studies have shown that the gut microbiota (GM), immune cells, and coronary heart disease (CHD) are closely related, but the causal nature of these relationships is largely unknown. This study aimed to investigate this causal relationship and reveal the effect of GM and immune cells on the risk of developing CHD using mediated Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods

First, we searched for data related to GM, immune cells, and CHD through published genome-wide association studies (GWAS). We filtered the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with GM and immune cells and then performed the first MR analysis to identify disease-associated intestinal bacteria and disease-associated immune cells. Subsequently, three MR analyses were conducted: from disease-associated GM to disease-associated immune cells, from disease-associated immune cells to CHD, and from disease-associated GM to CHD. Each MR analysis was conducted using inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger regression, weighted median, weighted models, and simple models.

Results

A total of six GM and 25 immune cells were found to be associated with CHD. In the MR analysis using the inverse variance weighting (IVW) method, g__Desulfovibrio.s__Desulfovibrio_piger was associated with EM DN (CD4–CD8–) %T cells (P < 0.05 and OR > 1), EM DN (CD4–CD8–) %T cells was associated with CHD (P < 0.05 and OR < 1), and g__Desulfovibrio.s__Desulfovibrio_piger was associated with CHD (P < 0.05 and OR < 1).

Conclusion

An increase in the abundance of g__Desulfovibrio.s__Desulfovibrio_piger leads to an increase in the amount of EM DN (CD4–CD8–) %T cells, and an increase in the amount of EM DN (CD4–CD8–) %T cells reduces the risk of developing CHD. Our study provides some references for reducing the incidence of CHD by regulating GM and immune cells.
Patient safety and healthcare quality of U.S. laboratory developed tests (LDTs) in the AI/ML era of precision medicine
Authors: Kurnat-Thoma Emma L.
Published: August 2024

This policy brief summarizes current U.S. regulatory considerations for ensuring patient safety and health care quality of genetic/genomic test information for precision medicine in the era of artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML). The critical role of innovative and efficient laboratory developed tests (LDTs) in providing accurate diagnostic genetic/genomic information for U.S. patient- and family-centered healthcare decision-making is significant. However, many LDTs are not fully vetted for sufficient analytic and clinical validity via current FDA and CMS regulatory oversight pathways. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Policy Analytical Framework Tool was used to identify the issue, perform a high-level policy analysis, and develop overview recommendations for a bipartisan healthcare policy reform strategy acceptable to diverse precision and systems medicine stakeholders.
Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis reveals the clinical implications of immune-related genes in ovarian cancer
Authors: Gong Weiwei , Kuang Mingqin , Chen Hongxi , Luo Yiheng , You Keli , Zhang Bin , Liu Yueyang
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Ovarian cancer (OC) is a common gynecological malignancy with poor prognosis and substantial tumor heterogeneity. Due to the complex tumor immune microenvironment (TIME) among ovarian cancer, only a few patients have an immune response to immunotherapy. To investigate the differences in immune function and identify potential biomarkers in OC, we established a prognostic risk scoring model (PRSM) with differential expression of immune-related genes (IRGs) to identify critical prognostic IRG signatures.

Methods

Single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) was used to investigate the infiltration of various immune cells in 372 OC patients. Then, COX regression analysis and Lasso regression analysis were used to screen IRGs and construct PRSM. Next, the immunotherapy sensitivity of different risk groups regarding the immune checkpoint expression and tumor mutation burden was evaluated. Finally, a nomogram was created to guide the clinical evaluation of the patient prognosis.

Results

In this study, 320 immune-related genes (IRGs) were identified, 13 of which were selectively incorporated into a Prognostic Risk Scoring Model (PRSM). This model revealed that the patients in the high-risk group were characterized as having poorer prognosis, lower expression of immune checkpoints, and decreased tumor mutation load levels compared with those in the low-risk group. The nomogram based on the risk score can distinguish the risk subtypes and individual prognosis of patients with OC. Additionally, M1 macrophages may be the critical target for immunotherapy in OC patients.

Conclusion

With the in-depth analysis of the immune microenvironment of OC, the PRSM was constructed to predict the OC patient prognosis and identify the subgroup of the patients benefiting from immunotherapy.
The dissociating effects of fear and disgust on multisensory integration in autism: evidence from evoked potentials
Authors: Stefanou Maria Elena , Dundon Neil M. , Bestelmeyer Patricia E. G. , Biscaldi Monica , Smyrnis Nikolaos , Klein Christoph
Published: August 2024

Background

Deficits in Multisensory Integration (MSI) in ASD have been reported repeatedly and have been suggested to be caused by altered long-range connectivity. Here we investigate behavioral and ERP correlates of MSI in ASD using ecologically valid videos of emotional expressions.

Methods

In the present study, we set out to investigate the electrophysiological correlates of audiovisual MSI in young autistic and neurotypical adolescents. We employed dynamic stimuli of high ecological validity (500 ms clips produced by actors) that depicted fear or disgust in unimodal (visual and auditory), and bimodal (audiovisual) conditions.

Results

We report robust MSI effects at both the behavioral and electrophysiological levels and pronounced differences between autistic and neurotypical participants. Specifically, neurotypical controls showed robust behavioral MSI for both emotions as seen through a significant speed-up of bimodal response time (RT), confirmed by Miller’s Race Model Inequality (RMI), with greater MSI effects for fear than disgust. Adolescents with ASD, by contrast, showed behavioral MSI only for fear. At the electrophysiological level, the bimodal condition as compared to the unimodal conditions reduced the amplitudes of the visual P100 and auditory P200 and increased the amplitude of the visual N170 regardless of group. Furthermore, a cluster-based analysis across all electrodes revealed that adolescents with ASD showed an overall delayed and spatially constrained MSI effect compared to controls.

Conclusion

Given that the variables we measured reflect attention, our findings suggest that MSI can be modulated by the differential effects on attention that fear and disgust produce. We also argue that the MSI deficits seen in autistic individuals can be compensated for at later processing stages by (a) the attention-orienting effects of fear, at the behavioral level, and (b) at the electrophysiological level via increased attentional effort.
BayesianSpikeFusion: accelerating spiking neural network inference via Bayesian fusion of early prediction
Authors: Habara Takehiro , Sato Takashi , Awano Hiromitsu
Published: August 2024

Spiking neural networks (SNNs) have garnered significant attention due to their notable energy efficiency. However, conventional SNNs rely on spike firing frequency to encode information, necessitating a fixed sampling time and leaving room for further optimization. This study presents a novel approach to reduce sampling time and conserve energy by extracting early prediction results from the intermediate layer of the network and integrating them with the final layer's predictions in a Bayesian fashion. Experimental evaluations conducted on image classification tasks using MNIST, CIFAR-10, and CIFAR-100 datasets demonstrate the efficacy of our proposed method when applied to VGGNets and ResNets models. Results indicate a substantial energy reduction of 38.8% in VGGNets and 48.0% in ResNets, illustrating the potential for achieving significant efficiency gains in spiking neural networks. These findings contribute to the ongoing research in enhancing the performance of SNNs, facilitating their deployment in resource-constrained environments. Our code is available on GitHub: https://github.com/hanebarla/BayesianSpikeFusion.
Retrospective analysis of the effect of SGLT-2 inhibitors on renal function in patients with type 2 diabetes in the real world
Authors: Song Rongjing , Hou Qiaoyu , Zhang Xiuying , Zhao Wei , Liu Gang , Li Meng , Zhang Xiaohong , Ji Linong
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The protective effect of sodium–glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors on the kidneys has been widely recognized. However, limited research has reported the changes in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of real-world patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) over time after administration of SGLT-2 inhibitors. This study aimed to reflect the trend of eGFR changes over time in T2DM patients having different baseline eGFR after SGLT-2 inhibitors administration in the real world.

Methods

A single-center retrospective study was performed in a tertiary public hospital in Beijing, China. In total, 998 outpatients with T2DM who initiated SGLT-2 inhibitors treatment were included in the study. The changes in eGFR, urinary albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR), and glycolipid metabolism indicators were analyzed during the 18-month follow-up period.

Results

The eGFR levels significantly decreased to their lowest point (−3.04 mL/min/1.73 m2) in the first 3 months after initiation of SGLT-2 inhibitors treatment, however, gradually returned to the baseline level after 1 year. Compared to the subgroup with eGFR >90 mL/min/1.73 m2, improvements in renal function were more significant in patients with T2DM from the 60 < eGFR ≤90 mL/min/1.73 m2 and eGFR ≤60 mL/min/1.73 m2 subgroups after treatment with SGLT-2 inhibitors. Similarly, SGLT-2 inhibitors reduced the UACR in patients with diabetic nephropathy.

Conclusion

This study further confirmed the real-world long-term protective effect of SGLT-2 inhibitors on the kidneys of patients with T2DM, which is not related to baseline renal function and blood glucose.
Impact of p53-associated acute myeloid leukemia hallmarks on metabolism and the immune environment
Authors: Chomczyk Monika , Gazzola Luca , Dash Shubhankar , Firmanty Patryk , George Binsah S. , Mohanty Vakul , Abbas Hussein A. , Baran Natalia
Published: August 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML), an aggressive malignancy of hematopoietic stem cells, is characterized by the blockade of cell differentiation, uncontrolled proliferation, and cell expansion that impairs healthy hematopoiesis and results in pancytopenia and susceptibility to infections. Several genetic and chromosomal aberrations play a role in AML and influence patient outcomes. TP53 is a key tumor suppressor gene involved in a variety of cell features, such as cell-cycle regulation, genome stability, proliferation, differentiation, stem-cell homeostasis, apoptosis, metabolism, senescence, and the repair of DNA damage in response to cellular stress. In AML, TP53 alterations occur in 5%–12% of de novo AML cases. These mutations form an important molecular subgroup, and patients with these mutations have the worst prognosis and shortest overall survival among patients with AML, even when treated with aggressive chemotherapy and allogeneic stem cell transplant. The frequency of TP53-mutations increases in relapsed and recurrent AML and is associated with chemoresistance. Progress in AML genetics and biology has brought the novel therapies, however, the clinical benefit of these agents for patients whose disease is driven by TP53 mutations remains largely unexplored. This review focuses on the molecular characteristics of TP53-mutated disease; the impact of TP53 on selected hallmarks of leukemia, particularly metabolic rewiring and immune evasion, the clinical importance of TP53 mutations; and the current progress in the development of preclinical and clinical therapeutic strategies to treat TP53-mutated disease.
Green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles from Wodyetia bifurcata fruit peel extract: multifaceted potential in wound healing, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer applications
Authors: Moalwi Adel , Kamat Keerti , Muddapur Uday M. , Aldoah Bader , AlWadai Hajar Hassan , Alamri Abdulrahman Manaa , Alrashid Fauwaz Fahad , Alsareii Saeed Ali , Mahnashi Mater H. , Shaikh Ibrahim Ahmed , Khan Aejaz Abdullatif , More Sunil S.
Published: August 2024

This study focuses on the synthesis, characterization, and use of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnONPs) derived from W. bifurcata fruit peel extract. ZnONPs are frequently synthesized utilizing a green technique that is both cost-effective and ecologically friendly. ZnONPs were characterized utilizing analytical techniques. Ultra Violet visible (UV-Vis) spectra showed peaks at 364 nm, confirming the production of ZnONPs. Scanning Electron Microscope analysis indicated that the nanoparticles generated were spherical/agglomerated, with diameters ranging from 11 to 25 nm. FTIR spectroscopy was used to identify the particular functional groups responsible for the nanoparticles’ reduction, stabilization, and capping. Phytochemical analysis of the extract revealed that flavonoids, saponins, steroids, triterpenoids, and resins were present. The antibacterial activity of W. bifurcata synthesised nanoparticles was evaluated against pathogenic bacteria. The ZnONPs antioxidant activity was assessed using DPPH assay. The in vitro cytotoxicity was assessed against prostate cancer PC3 cells. The wound healing potential was assessed by employing in vitro scratch assay and in vivo excision model in Wistar rats. Because of its environmentally benign production, low toxicity, and biocompatibility, ZnONPs exhibited potential antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, and wound healing activities, indicating that they could be used in cancer treatment and wound management. Further study is required to examine the fundamental mechanisms and evaluate the safety and effectiveness of the test sample in clinical situations.
The prevalence of sarcopenia and risk factors in the older adult in China: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Meng Shilong , He Xiaomin , Fu Xinlei , Zhang Xu , Tong Minghao , Li Wei , Zhang Wei , Shi Xiaolin , Liu Kang
Published: August 2024

Background

Understanding the epidemiological information of a certain disease is the first step in related prevention and control work. This article aims to understand the prevalence and associated risk factors of sarcopenia among the older adult (≥60 years old) in China and to provide an evidence-based basis for early identification, management, and prevention of sarcopenia patients.

Methods

We searched seven databases: CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases from the establishment of the database until January 31, 2024. The Quality evaluation criteria of cross-sectional studies recommended by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) were used for literature quality evaluation. Stata 18.0 software was used for statistical analysis.

Results

We finally included 45 studies, involving a total of 37,571 cases. After statistical analysis, we found that the prevalence of sarcopenia among the older adult in China was 20.7% [95% CI (18.3, 23.0%)]. The results of subgroup analysis suggest that: ① According to gender, the prevalence rate of sarcopenia in women (21.6%) is higher than that in men (19.2%); ② According to age, the prevalence rate of older adult people aged ≥80 (45.4%) was the highest, followed by 70–79 (27.2%) and 60–69 (15.7%). ③ According to region, the prevalence rate of the older adult in the south (21.7%) is higher than that in the north (19.0%); ④ According to the time of publication, the prevalence of sarcopenia among the older adult in China has increased (from 19.2% in 2014–2018 to 21.4% in 2019–2024); ⑤ According to the diagnostic criteria, the detection rate of AWGS (2019) is higher than that of AWGS (2014) (24.5% vs. 19.3%). Finally, aging, low BMI, low leg circumference, smoking, depression, osteoporosis, malnutrition and malnutrition risk are all risk factors for sarcopenia among the older adult in China.

Conclusion

The prevalence of sarcopenia in the older adult in China was higher (20.7%), which should be paid attention to by relevant health authorities. In addition, aging, low BMI, low calf circumference, smoking, depression, osteoporosis, malnutrition and malnutrition risk are risk factors for the development of sarcopenia in the older adult in China. For these high-risk populations, early identification, prevention, and intervention can be carried out to delay the occurrence and progression of sarcopenia.
Assessment of patients’ knowledge and perceptions of MRI scans and safety in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alghamdi Sami A.
Published: August 2024

Background

This study was conducted to assess the levels of knowledge about MRI scans and safety measures among patients in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted at nine Saudi Arabian hospitals and utilized a questionnaire comprising 22 items that evaluated patients’ knowledge regarding MRI scans and safety measures, divided into four sections. The questions encompassed patients’ sociodemographic data (A), knowledge about MRI (B), safety measures (C), and communication (D). Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the participant demographics and responses.

Results

Out of 446 MRI patients, 60.5% correctly identified that MRI does not involve ionizing radiation, and 78% recognized MRI as a diagnostic tool. Further, 94.2% knew that metal objects are not allowed in MRI rooms. However, 80.3% incorrectly believed that pregnant patients cannot undergo MRI at any time, 57% thought the MRI scanner is turned off when not in use, and 72.6% did not recognize any MRI-compatible devices. About 62% were unaware of the need for kidney function tests with contrast agents, and 43% reported anxiety during MRI scans. Overall, 57% of the patients had limited knowledge of MRI safety, with 39.5% considering their understanding adequate. Educational attainment and employment status were significantly associated with improved MRI knowledge. Most participants sought information from healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need to educate patients about MRI procedures and safety protocols. Significant gaps remain in patients’ knowledge, especially regarding safety measures. Higher levels of educational attainment and employment status were linked to greater levels of MRI knowledge, suggesting the importance of targeted educational interventions. Healthcare professionals were the patients’ main information sources; nevertheless, comprehensive and accessible information is necessary. Improved communication and training for healthcare providers can enhance patient understanding and experiences during MRI scans.
WATERHYPERNET: a prototype network of automated in situ measurements of hyperspectral water reflectance for satellite validation and water quality monitoring
Authors: Ruddick Kevin G. , Brando Vittorio E. , Corizzi Alexandre , Dogliotti Ana I. , Doxaran David , Goyens Clémence , Kuusk Joel , Vanhellemont Quinten , Vansteenwegen Dieter , Bialek Agnieszka , De Vis Pieter , Lavigne Héloise , Beck Matthew , Flight Kenneth , Gammaru Anabel , González Vilas Luis , Laizans Kaspars , Ortenzio Francesca , Perna Pablo , Piegari Estefania , Rubinstein Lucas , Sinclair Morven , Van der Zande Dimitry
Published: August 2024

This paper describes a prototype network of automated in situ measurements of hyperspectral water reflectance suitable for satellite validation and water quality monitoring. Radiometric validation of satellite-derived water reflectance is essential to ensure that only reliable data, e.g., for estimating water quality parameters such as chlorophyll a concentration, reach end-users. Analysis of the differences between satellite and in situ water reflectance measurements, particularly unmasked outliers, can provide recommendations on where satellite data processing algorithms need to be improved. In a massively multi-mission context, including Newspace constellations, hyperspectral missions and missions with broad spectral bands not designed for “water colour”, the advantage of hyperspectral over multispectral in situ measurements is clear. Two hyperspectral measurement systems, PANTHYR (based on the mature TRIOS/RAMSES radiometer) and HYPSTAR® (a newly designed radiometer), have been integrated here in the WATERHYPERNET network with SI-traceable calibration and characterisation. The systems have common data acquisition protocol, data processing and quality control. The choice of validation site and viewing geometry and installation considerations are described in detail. Three demonstration cases are described: 1. PANTHYR data from two sites are used to validate Sentinel-2/MSI (A&B); 2. HYPSTAR® data at six sites are used to validate Sentinel-3/OLCI (A&B); 3. PANTHYR and HYPSTAR® data in Belgian North Sea waters are used to monitor phytoplankton parameters, including Phaeocystis globosa, over two 5 month periods. Conclusion are drawn regarding the quality of Sentinel-2/MSI and Sentinel-3/OLCI data, including indications where improvements could be made. For example, a positive bias (mean difference) is found for ACOLITE_DSF processing of Sentinel-2 in clear waters (Acqua Alta) and clues are provided on how to improve this processing. The utility of these in situ measurements, even without accompanying hyperspectral satellite data, is demonstrated for phytoplankton monitoring. The future evolution of the WATERHYPERNET network is outlined, including geographical expansion, improvements to hardware reliability and to the measurement method (including uncertainty estimation) and plans for daily distribution of near real-time data.
Crucial future observations and directions for unveiling magnetopause dynamics and their geospace impacts
Authors: Archer Martin O. , Shi Xueling , Walach Maria-Theresia , Hartinger Michael D. , Gillies D. Megan , Di Matteo Simone , Staples Frances , Nykyri Katariina
Published: August 2024

The dynamics of Earth’s magnetopause, driven by several different external/internal physical processes, plays a major role in the geospace energy budget. Given magnetopause motion couples across many space plasma regions, numerous forms of observations may provide valuable information in understanding these dynamics and their impacts. In-situ multi-point spacecraft measurements measure the local plasma environment, dynamics and processes; with upcoming swarms providing the possibility of improved spatiotemporal reconstruction of dynamical phenomena, and multi-mission conjunctions advancing understanding of the “mesoscale” coupling across the geospace “system of systems.” Soft X-ray imaging of the magnetopause should enable boundary motion to be directly remote sensed for the first time. Indirect remote sensing capabilities might be enabled through the field-aligned currents associated with disturbances to the magnetopause; by harnessing data from satellite mega-constellations in low-Earth orbit, and taking advantage of upgraded auroral imaging and ionospheric radar technology. Finally, increased numbers of closely-spaced ground magnetometers in both hemispheres may help discriminate between high-latitude processes in what has previously been a “zone of confusion.” Bringing together these multiple modes of observations for studying magnetopause dynamics is crucial. These may also be aided by advanced data processing techniques, such as physics-based inversions and machine learning methods, along with comparisons to increasingly sophisticated geospace assimilative models and simulations.
A framework for player movement analysis in team sports
Authors: Parker Stan , Duthie Grant , Robertson Sam
Published: August 2024

Player movement is a fundamental component of evaluating performance in most team sports. Movement can be evaluated across multiple scales, referring to the function of anatomical structures through various planes of motion or an individual regulating their field position based on the movement of opposition players. Developments in commercially available tracking systems have afforded end users the ability to investigate the spatiotemporal features of movement in fine detail. These advancements, in conjunction with overlaid contextual information, have provided insights into the strategies adopted by players in relation to their movement. Understanding movement beyond its semantic value allows practitioners to make informed decisions surrounding performance evaluation and training design. This investigation proposes a framework to guide the analysis of player movement within team sports environments. The framework describes how operational standards for assessing movement can be designed in reference to theory and a set training philosophy. Such practice allows for the spatial and temporal complexities within team sports to be described and could potentially lead to better-applied outcomes through greater interdisciplinary collaboration and an improved holistic understanding of movement. To inform its development, this study evaluates the current research and identifies several open questions to guide future investigations.
A New Active Disturbance Rejection Control Tuning Method for High-Order Electro-Hydraulic Servo Systems
Authors: Zhang Junli , Lu Baochun , Chen Chuanjun , Li Zhengyang
Published: August 2024

In our industry, active disturbance rejection control already has been used to enhance the performance of the electro-hydraulic servo systems, despite the fact that electro-hydraulic servo systems are usually reduced to first-order and second-order systems. The aim of this paper is to extend the application of active disturbance rejection control to high-order electro-hydraulic servo systems by introducing a new tuning method. Active disturbance rejection control is transformed into two separate parts in the frequency domain: a pre-filter H(s) and a controller T(s). The parameters of the pre-filter and controller can be tuned to satisfy the performance requirements of high-order electro-hydraulic servo systems using quantitative feedback theory. To assess the efficacy of the proposed tuning approach, simulations and an application of a third-order electro-hydraulic servo system have been carried out and the stability of the application with an improved active disturbance rejection controller is analyzed. The results of simulations and experiments reveal that the new tuning method for high-order electro-hydraulic servo systems can obtain a better performance than the bandwidth tuning method and other methods.
Improved Paddy Rice Classification Utilizing Sentinel-1/2 Imagery in Anhui China: Phenological Features, Algorithms, Validation and Analysis
Authors: Wang Zeling , Sun Xiaobing , Liu Xiao , Xu Feifei , Huang Honglian , Ti Rufang , Yu Haixiao , Wang Yuxuan , Wei Yichen
Published: August 2024

Enhancing the accuracy of paddy rice mapping is crucial for bolstering global food security. Prior research incorporating Sentinel imagery with phenological characteristics has identified paddy rice fields effectively. However, challenges such as reliance on a single index, cloud cover interference, and a lack of sufficient training samples continue to complicate the mapping of paddy rice. This study introduces a comprehensive paddy rice mapping framework that incorporates annual phenological features throughout the entire growth phase. This was achieved by expanding the sample size through the extraction of phenological features, and the visually verified samples were then integrated with distinct phenological phases and relevant indices, utilizing hybrid Sentinel-1/2 imagery to map paddy rice distribution. The accuracy of the generated rice map was validated against trusted samples, corroborative agricultural statistics, and another high-resolution 10 m mapping product. Compared with ground-truth samples, the algorithm has achieved an overall accuracy of approximately 92% in most rice production regions with a confusion matrix. Additionally, the estimated rice area in Anhui and several other rice-producing regions shows less than 10% error when compared with governmental statistical records from the yearbook. When compared with another recent paddy rice map at the same spatial resolution (10 m), our approach provided cleaner details and more effectively reduced omission errors. It received values of R2 = 0.991 and slope = 1.08 in a prefecture-level statistical comparison with a counterpart. Our proposed approach is proven to be valid and is expected to offer significant benefits to agricultural sustainability and technological applications in farming.
Fault Diagnosis of Rolling Bearings in Agricultural Machines Using SVD-EDS-GST and ResViT
Authors: Xie Fengyun , Wang Yang , Wang Gan , Sun Enguang , Fan Qiuyang , Song Minghua
Published: August 2024

In the complex and harsh environment of agriculture, rolling bearings, as the key transmission components in agricultural machinery, are very prone to failure, so research on the intelligent fault diagnosis of agricultural machinery components is critical. Therefore, this paper proposes a new method based on SVD-EDS-GST and ResNet-Vision Transformer (ResViT) for the fault diagnosis of rolling bearings in agricultural machines. Firstly, an experimental platform for rolling bearing failure in agricultural machinery is built, and one-dimensional vibration signals are obtained using acceleration sensors. Next, the signal is preprocessed for noise reduction using singular value decomposition (SVD) combined with the energy difference spectrum (EDS) to solve for the interference of complex noise and redundant components in the vibration signal. Secondly, generalized S-transform (GST) is used to process vibration signals into images. Then, the ResViT model is proposed, where the ResNet34 network is used to replace the image chunking mechanism in the original Vision Transformer model for feature extraction. Finally, an improved Vision Transformer (ViT) is utilized to synthesize global and local information for fault classification. The experimental results show that the proposed method’s average accuracy in rolling bearing fault classification for agricultural machinery reaches 99.08%. In addition, compared with SVD-EDS-GST-CNN, SVD-EDS-GST-LSTM, STFT-ViT, GST-ViT, and SVD-EDS-GST-ViT, the accuracy rate was improved by 3.5%, 3.84%, 4.8%, 8.02%, and 0.56%, and the standard deviation was also minimized.
The Carbon Footprint and Influencing Factors of the Main Grain Crops in the North China Plain
Authors: Sun Tao , Li Hongjie , Wang Congxin , Li Ran , Zhao Zichao , Guo Bing , Yao Li , Gao Xinhao
Published: August 2024

The North China Plain (NCP) serves as a critical grain-producing region in China, playing a pivotal role in ensuring the nation’s food security. A comprehensive analysis of the carbon footprint (CF) related to the cultivation of major grain crops within this region and the proposal of strategies to reduce emissions through low-carbon production methods are crucial for advancing sustainable agricultural practices in China. This study employed the lifecycle assessment (LCA) method to estimate the CF of wheat, maize, and rice crops over a period from 2013 to 2022, based on statistical data collected from five key provinces and cities in the NCP: Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shandong, and Henan. Additionally, the Logarithmic Mean Divisia Index (LMDI) model was utilized to analyze the influencing factors. The results indicated that the carbon footprints per unit area (CFA) of maize, wheat, and rice increased between 2013 and 2022. Rice had the highest carbon footprint per unit yield (CFY), averaging 1.1 kg CO2-eq kg−1, with significant fluctuations over time. In contrast, the CFY of wheat and maize remained relatively stable from 2013 to 2022. Fertilizers contributed the most to CF composition, accounting for 48.8%, 48.0%, and 25.9% of the total carbon inputs for wheat, maize, and rice, respectively. The electricity used for irrigation in rice production was 31.8%, which was much higher than that of wheat (6.8%) and maize (7.1%). The LMDI model showed that the labor effect was a common suppressing factor for the carbon emissions of maize, wheat, and rice in the NCP, while the agricultural structure effect and the economic development effect were common driving factors. By improving the efficiency of fertilizer and pesticide utilization, cultivating new varieties, increasing the mechanical operation efficiency, the irrigation efficiency, and policy support, the CF of grain crop production in the NCP can be effectively reduced. These efforts will contribute to the sustainable development of agricultural practices in the NCP and support China’s efforts to achieve its “double carbon” target.
Characterization of Bovine Papillomavirus Types Detected in Cattle Rumen Tissues from Amazon Region, Brazil
Authors: Gilio Gasparotto Paulo Henrique , Ribeiro dos Santos Igor , Viera Dantas Filho Jerônimo , Soares da Silva Mariana , dos Anjos Souza Fernanda , de Macedo Sousa Jennefer Caroline , Driemeier David , Wageck Canal Cláudio , Chaves da Silva Flavio Roberto , Daudt Cíntia
Published: August 2024

The Bos Taurus Papillomavirus, commonly known as bovine papillomavirus (BPV), can cause lesions in the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in cattle and induce the formation of papillomas in organs such as the pharynx, esophagus, rumen and reticulum. GIT papillomas can lead to feeding and breathing distress. Moreover, the sample collection is challenging, which reduces the BPV diagnosis in these organs. BPV can cause exophytic nodular, cauliflower-like, flat, filiform or atypical-shape papillomas at the epidermis. Histologically, the papillomas demonstrate orthokeratotic/parakeratotic hyperkeratosis and koilocytosis and, currently, BPV comprises 45 described types. The aim of this study was to carry out the genetic characterization of BPV present in rumen neoplastic lesions of cattle raised extensively in the Western Amazon region, Brazil. A total of 100 papillomatous ruminal samples were collected from animals slaughtered in Ji-Paraná and Urupá municipalities from the Rondônia state, Brazil. The samples were submitted to PCR using the primer pair FAP59/FAP64 and sequenced by the Sanger method. Histopathological analysis was performed on 24 samples, which had enough material for this purpose. As a result, samples were histologically classified as fibropapilloma and squamous papilloma. Among the samples analyzed, it was possible to identify the BPVs 2, 13 (Delta PVs) and 44, with one sample classified as a putative new subtype of BPV44. The present study could identify BPV13 and 44 types in cattle rumen tissues from the Brazilian Amazon region for the first time.