bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in smoking, alcohol consumption, and the risk of Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Jung Se Young , Chun Sohyun , Cho Eun Bin , Han Kyungdo , Yoo Juhwan , Yeo Yohwan , Yoo Jung Eun , Jeong Su Min , Min Ju-Hong , Shin Dong Wook
Published: September 2023

Objective

There have been no studies on the association between changes in smoking and alcohol consumption or combined changes in smoking and alcohol consumption frequencies and PD risk. To assess the influence of changes in smoking and alcohol consumption on the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD).

Methods

National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database between January 2009 to December 2011 was analyzed. A total of 3,931,741 patients were included. Study participants were followed up for the incidence of PD until December 2017.

Results

Compared to the sustained non-smokers, sustained light smokers (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 0.80, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75–0.85), sustained moderate smokers (aHR 0.54, 95% CI 0.47–0.61), and sustained heavy smokers (aHR 0.49, 95% CI 0.44–0.55) had a lower risk of PD. Compared to those who sustained non-drinking, sustained light drinkers (aHR 0.85 95% CI 0.89–0.91), sustained moderate drinkers (aHR 0.68, 95% CI 0.60–0.78), and sustained heavy drinkers (aHR 0.77, 95% CI 0.68–0.87) showed decreased risk of PD. Among non-drinkers, those who started drinking to a light level were at decreased risk of PD (aHR 0.84, 95% CI 0.77–0.91). Among non-smoking and non-drinking participants, those who initiated smoking only (aHR 0.78, 95% CI 0.70–0.86), drinking only (aHR 0.77, 95% CI 0.68–0.87), and both smoking and drinking (aHR 0.69, 95% CI 0.58–0.82) showed decreased risk of PD.

Conclusion

Smoking is associated with decreased risk of PD with a dose–response relationship. Alcohol consumption at a light level may also be associated with decreased risk of PD. Further studies are warranted to find the possible mechanisms for the protective effects of smoking and drinking on PD, which may present insights into the etiology of PD.
Incidence, therapy, and outcome in the management of chronic subdural hematoma in Switzerland: a population-based multicenter cohort study
Authors: El Rahal Amir , Beck Jürgen , Ahlborn Peter , Bernasconi Corrado , Marbacher Serge , Wanderer Stefan , Burkhardt Jan-Karl , Daniel Roy Thomas , Ferrari Andrea , Hausmann Oliver , Kamenova Maria , Kothbauer Karl , Lutz Katharina , Mariani Luigi , Alfieri Alex , Schöni Daniel , Schucht Philippe , Raabe Andreas , Regli Luca , Kuhlen Dominique , Seule Martin , Soleman Jehuda , Starnoni Daniele , Zaldivar Julien , Zweifel Christian , Schaller Karl , Fung Christian
Published: September 2023

Background

Chronic subdural hematoma (cSDH) is a disease affecting mainly elderly individuals. The reported incidence ranges from 2.0/100,000 to 58 per 100,000 person-years when only considering patients who are over 70 years old, with an overall incidence of 8.2–14.0 per 100,000 persons. Due to an estimated doubling of the population above 65 years old between 2000 and 2030, cSDH will become an even more significant concern. To gain an overview of cSDH hospital admission rates, treatment, and outcome, we performed this multicenter national cohort study of patients requiring surgical treatment of cSDH.

Methods

A multicenter cohort study included patients treated in 2013 in a Swiss center accredited for residency. Demographics, medical history, symptoms, and medication were recorded. Imaging at admission was evaluated, and therapy was divided into burr hole craniostomy (BHC), twist drill craniostomy (TDC), and craniotomy. Patients' outcomes were dichotomized into good (mRS, 0–3) and poor (mRS, 4–6) outcomes. A two-sided t-test for unpaired variables was performed, while a chi-square test was performed for categorical variables, and a p-value of <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant.

Results

A total of 663 patients were included. The median age was 76 years, and the overall incidence rate was 8.2/100,000. With age, the incidence rate increased to 64.2/100,000 in patients aged 80–89 years. The most prevalent symptoms were gait disturbance in 362 (58.6%) of patients, headache in 286 (46.4%), and focal neurological deficits in 252 (40.7%). CSDH distribution was unilateral in 478 (72.1%) patients, while 185 presented a bilateral hematoma with no difference in the outcome. BHC was the most performed procedure for 758 (97.3%) evacuations. CSDH recurrence was noted in 104 patients (20.1%). A good outcome was seen in almost 81% of patients. Factors associated with poor outcomes were age, GCS and mRS on admission, and the occurrence of multiple deficits present at the diagnosis of the cSDH.

Conclusion

As the first multicenter national cohort-based study analyzing the disease burden of cSDH, our study reveals that the hospital admission rate of cSDH was 8.2/100,000, while with age, it rose to 64.2/100,000. A good outcome was seen in 81% of patients, who maintained the same quality of life as before the surgery. However, the mortality rate was 4%.
Web-based psychoeducational interventions for managing cognitive impairment–a systematic review
Authors: Vuori Outi , Kallio Eeva-Liisa , Wikström Annamaria , Jokinen Hanna , Hietanen Marja
Published: September 2023

Objective

Web-based rehabilitation, a branch of telerehabilitation, is carried out over the internet, unrestricted by time or place. Even though web-based interventions have been reported as feasible and effective in cases of mood disorders, for example, such evidence on the effectiveness of web-based cognitive rehabilitation remains unclear. This systematic review summarizes current knowledge on web-based psychoeducational programs aiming to manage cognitive deficits in patients with diseases that affect cognition.

Methods

Using the Ovid database and the Web of Science, we systematically searched the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Medline, and PsycINFO to identify eligible studies. The review protocol (CRD42021257315) was pre-registered with the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews. The search was performed 10/13/2022. Two reviewers independently screened titles, abstracts, and full-texts, and extracted data for the selected studies. Two independent reviewers assessed the methodological quality.

Results

The search retrieved 6,487 articles. Four studies with different patient groups (stroke, traumatic brain injury, brain tumor, and cancer) met the inclusion criteria of this systematic review. The studies examined systematic cognition-focused psychoeducational rehabilitation programs in which the patient worked independently. Three studies found positive effects on subjective cognitive functions, executive functions, and self-reported memory. No effects were found on objective cognitive functions. However, the studies had methodological weaknesses (non-randomized designs, small sample sizes, vaguely described interventions). Overall, adherence and patient satisfaction were good/excellent.

Conclusion

Web-based cognitive intervention programs are a new approach to rehabilitation and patient education. The evidence, although scarce, shows that web-based interventions are feasible and support subjective cognitive functioning. However, the literature to date is extremely limited and the quality of the studies is weak. More research with high-quality study designs is needed.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=257315, identifier: CRD42021257315.
Polyethylenimine-based iron oxide nanoparticles enhance cisplatin toxicity in ovarian cancer cells in the presence of a static magnetic field
Authors: Ashoori Faranak , Hajipour-Verdom Behnam , Satari Mohammad , Abdolmaleki Parviz
Published: September 2023

Background

Drug resistance in cancer cells is a major concern in chemotherapy. Cisplatin (CIS) is one of the most effective chemotherapeutics for ovarian cancer. Here, we investigated an experimental approach to increase CIS cytotoxicity and overcome cell resistance using nanoparticle-based combination treatments.

Methods

Polyethylenimine (PEI)-based magnetic iron oxide nanocomplexes were used for drug delivery in genetically matched CIS-resistant (A2780/CP) and -sensitive (A2780) ovarian cancer cells in the presence of a 20 mT static magnetic field. Magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) were synthesized and bonded to PEI cationic polymers to form binary complexes (PM). The binding of CIS to the PM binary complexes resulted in the formation of ternary complexes PM/C (PEI–MNP/CIS) and PMC (PEI–MNP–CIS).

Results

CIS cytotoxicity increased at different concentrations of CIS and PEI in all binary and ternary delivery systems over time. Additionally, CIS induced cell cycle arrest in the S and G2/M phases and reactive oxygen species production in both cell lines. Ternary complexes were more effective than binary complexes at promoting apoptosis in the treated cells.

Conclusion

PEI-based magnetic nanocomplexes can be considered novel carriers for increasing CIS cytotoxicity and likely overcoming drug resistance of ovarian cancer cells.
Integrated analysis of transcriptome, metabolome, and histochemistry reveals the response mechanisms of different ages Panax notoginseng to root-knot nematode infection
Authors: Wang Zhuhua , Wang Wenpeng , Wu Wentao , Wang Huiling , Zhang Shuai , Ye Chen , Guo Liwei , Wei Zhaoxia , Huang Hongping , Liu Yixiang , Zhu Shusheng , Zhu Youyong , Wang Yang , He Xiahong
Published: September 2023

Panax notoginseng (P. notoginseng) is an invaluable perennial medicinal herb. However, the roots of P. notoginseng are frequently subjected to severe damage caused by root-knot nematode (RKN) infestation. Although we have observed that P. notoginseng possessed adult-plant resistance (APR) against RKN disease, the defense response mechanisms against RKN disease in different age groups of P. notoginseng remain unexplored. We aimed to elucidate the response mechanisms of P. notoginseng at different stages of development to RKN infection by employing transcriptome, metabolome, and histochemistry analyses. Our findings indicated that distinct age groups of P. notoginseng may activate the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways in varying ways, leading to the synthesis of phenolics, flavonoids, lignin, and anthocyanin pigments as both the response and defense mechanism against RKN attacks. Specifically, one-year-old P. notoginseng exhibited resistance to RKN through the upregulation of 5-O-p-coumaroylquinic acid and key genes involved in monolignol biosynthesis, such as PAL, CCR, CYP73A, CYP98A, POD, and CAD. Moreover, two-year-old P. notoginseng enhanced the resistance by depleting chlorogenic acid and downregulating most genes associated with monolignol biosynthesis, while concurrently increasing cyanidin and ANR in flavonoid biosynthesis. Three-year-old P. notoginseng reinforced its resistance by significantly increasing five phenolic acids related to monolignol biosynthesis, namely p-coumaric acid, chlorogenic acid, 1-O-sinapoyl-D-glucose, coniferyl alcohol, and ferulic acid. Notably, P. notoginseng can establish a lignin barrier that restricted RKN to the infection site. In summary, P. notoginseng exhibited a potential ability to impede the further propagation of RKN through the accumulation or depletion of the compounds relevant to resistance within the phenylpropanoid and flavonoid pathways, as well as the induction of lignification in tissue cells.
Malleability of spatial skills: bridging developmental psychology and toy design for joyful STEAM development
Authors: İleri Çiğdem İrem , Erşan Melisa , Kalaça Duru , Coşkun Aykut , Göksun Tilbe , Küntay Aylin C.
Published: September 2023

Previous research has established that advances in spatial cognition predict STEAM success, and construction toys provide ample opportunities to foster spatial cognition. Despite various construction toy designs in the market, mostly brick-shaped building blocks are used in spatial cognition research. This group of toys is known to enhance mental rotation; however, mental rotation is not the only way to comprehend the environment three-dimensionally. More specifically, mental folding and perspective taking training have not received enough attention as they can also be enhanced with the construction toys, which are framed based on the 2×2 classification of spatial skills (intrinsic-static, intrinsic-dynamic, extrinsic-static, extrinsic-dynamic). To address these gaps, we compile evidence from both developmental psychology and toy design fields to show the central role played by mental folding and perspective taking skills as well as the importance of the variety in toy designs. The review was conducted systematically by searching peer reviewed design and psychology journals and conference proceedings. We suggest that, over and above their physical properties, construction toys offer affordances to elicit spatial language, gesture, and narrative among child-caregiver dyads. These interactions are essential for the development of spatial skills in both children and their caregivers. As developmental psychology and toy design fields are two domains that can contribute to the purpose of developing construction toys to boost spatial skills, we put forward six recommendations to bridge the current gaps between these fields. Consequently, new toy designs and empirical evidence regarding malleability of different spatial skills can contribute to the informal STEAM development.
Can mothers’ representations of their infants be improved in primary care? A randomized controlled trial of a parenting intervention using video feedback in a predominantly low- to moderate-risk sample
Authors: Sandnes Kjersti , Berg-Nielsen Turid Suzanne , Lydersen Stian , Kårstad Silja Berg
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Mothers’ representations of their infants are important intervention targets because they predict the observed quality of infant–mother interactions. The current study investigated the influence of a video-feedback infant-parent intervention on mothers’ representations of their infants beyond the effect of standard treatment.

Methods

Data from a naturalistic, randomized controlled trial of 152 predominantly low- to moderate-risk mothers (mean age = 29.7 years) with infants (mean age = 7.3 months) were used. At Well Baby Centers, all families followed the universal program, which was treatment as usual (TAU), whereas half of the families also received the intervention. The Working Model of the Child Interview categories and scales as well as three latent factors generated from a factor analysis were used to assess maternal representations at baseline and follow-up (9–13 months after baseline). A linear mixed model analysis was used to analyze the data.

Results

There were no differences in representation changes from baseline to follow-up between the control group (TAU) and intervention group. When both groups were combined, there were minor improvements in the mothers’ representations at the follow-up.

Discussion

Aspects of the intervention, the quality of TAU, and the homogeneity scores of the predominantly low-risk sample may explain the intervention’s lack of effect on mothers’ representations beyond TAU. The supportive services at Norwegian Well Baby Centers as well as the infants’ increasing age putatively contributed to the improved features of the mothers’ representations in the total sample. That standard community care may affect maternal representations has not been shown before. Future research should identify the core components in interventions targeting maternal representations and examine whether those components can be incorporated in primary care. Including measures of mothers’ reflective functioning could broaden our knowledge of representations and their changeability.

Clinical trial registration

This study is registered in the International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number registry under the reference number ISRCTN 99793905.
Barriers and facilitators of the implementation of the application of pelvic floor muscle training in patients with prostate cancer: a scoping review
Authors: Wang Lijuan , Li Yaqin , Qi Ziyi , Wang Wei
Published: September 2023

Background

Patients with prostate cancer (PCa) benefit significantly from pelvic floor exercises, but recent results indicate that these exercises have not been fully promoted in clinical settings. This scoping review aimed to identify the facilitators of and barriers to pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) in PCa survivors.

Methods

A scoping review was conducted in November 2022. Relevant studies were identified from CINAHL, Embase, PubMed, PsycINFO, and Web of Science databases from their inception to 20 November 2022. Data were analyzed and extracted by two formally trained researchers.

Results

A total of 53 studies were included, most of which were randomized controlled trials. The Tailored Implementation for Chronic Diseases (TICD) model framework was used to identify the contents of seven barriers and promotion areas, as well as a series of sub-domains. The most common barriers to implementing pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) included the following: the lack of a common scheme in guidelines and the measurement of common standardized outcomes, inadequate self-monitoring or feedback from healthcare professionals to improve PFMT compliance, poor patient compliance, and a lack of implementation equipment and financial support. Good treatment effects and easy operation were the facilitators of PFMT.

Conclusion

The implementation of PFMT faces several challenges and opportunities that should be understood thoroughly before implementation. In terms of guidelines and clinical practice, more work is needed, and the possibility of PFMT implementation in various hospitals and community health centers or clinics should be considered.
Linking coastal environmental and health observations for human wellbeing
Authors: Sandifer Paul A.
Published: September 2023

Coastal areas have long been attractive places to live, work, and recreate and remain so even in the face of growing threats from global environmental change. At any moment, a significant portion of the human population is exposed to both positive and negative health effects associated with coastal locations. Some locations may be “hotspots” of concern for human health due to ongoing climatic and other changes, accentuating the need for better understanding of coastal environment-human health linkages. This paper describes how environmental and health data could be combined to create a coastal environmental and human health observing system. While largely based on information from the US and Europe, the concept should be relevant to almost any coastal area. If implemented, a coastal health observing system would connect a variety of human health data and environmental observations for individuals and communities, and where possible cohorts. Health data would be derived from questionnaires and other personal sources, clinical examinations, electronic health records, wearable devices, and syndromic surveillance, plus information on vulnerability and health-relevant community characteristics, and social media observations. Environmental data sources would include weather and climate, beach and coastal conditions, sentinel species, occurrences of harmful organisms and substances, seafood safety advisories, and distribution, proximity, and characteristics of health-promoting green and blue spaces. Where available, information on supporting resources could be added. Establishment of a linked network of coastal health observatories could provide powerful tools for understanding the positive and negative health effects of coastal living, lead to better health protections and enhanced wellbeing, and provide significant benefits to coastal residents, including the historically disadvantaged, as well as the military, hospitals and emergency departments, academic medical, public health, and environmental health programs, and others. Early networks could provide best practices and lessons learned to assist later entries.
Advancing dementia care in Pakistan: challenges and the way forward
Authors: Ali Soha , Zehra Maha , Fatima Tehreem , Nadeem Abdullah
Published: September 2023

Dementia encompasses a wide range of cognitive and psychological impairments that hinder individuals' ability to carry out daily tasks effectively. In the context of Pakistan, the prevalence of dementia patients currently stands at ~150,000–200,000, reflecting the impact of the country's significant population size. This increase in numbers poses a substantial socioeconomic challenge, emphasizing the need to prioritize dementia within Pakistan's healthcare system. However, the allocation of resources and attention to dementia remains relatively low, leading to considerable difficulties in both diagnosing and treating affected individuals. The provision of comprehensive dementia care faces numerous obstacles, including limited public awareness, insufficient research initiatives, inadequate infrastructure, and a lack of specialized training programs. To address these challenges, the Pakistani government must acknowledge and address the stringent regulations governing the neuroscience industry, with a specific emphasis on catering to the unique needs of dementia patients. By doing so, they can ensure the delivery of high-quality care, essential support, and necessary resources for individuals living with dementia in the country.
A perspective on potential psychological risks and solutions of using virtual reality in palliative care
Authors: Woo Olive K. L. , Lee Antoinette M.
Published: September 2023

Initial evidence suggests that virtual reality (VR) can effectively reduce palliative symptoms. While such findings shed a positive light on the ability of VR exposure to improve patients’ physical and emotional symptoms, VR could have downsides with adverse effects. As most of the reported adverse effects are related to physical risks or technical challenges, there is a scarcity of reports on possible psychological risks posed by VR exposure in palliative care settings, an area with considerable concerns. This is an area that is likely to have a significant impact on the future of clinical practice and research on the use of VR in palliative care. Based on the clinical experience of a registered clinical psychologist who has delivered VR in a palliative care unit for 3 years, we put forward a perspective on the potential psychological complications of using VR in palliative care. Our clinical experiences show that exposure to a desirable virtual environment that is beneficial to patients might not always align with realistic expectations, and that should the use of VR be considered, special precautions are needed to minimize possible psychological harms. This perspective article further proposes three approaches aiming to minimize possible psychological hazards: incorporation of psychological assessment prior to VR administration, psychological interventions right after VR, and professional training of the VR facilitators. We hope that our personally witnessed concerns and perspectives can alert future VR facilitators to the potential psychological hazards of using VR for patients receiving palliative care and inspire future research to minimize psychological harms.
Solitary wave characteristics on the fine structure of the mesospheric sporadic sodium layer
Authors: Qiu Shican , Shi Mengxi , Yousof Hamad , Soon Willie , Jia Mingjiao , Xue Xianghui , Li Tao , Ju Peng , Dou Xiankang
Published: September 2023

The so-called sporadic sodium layers (SSLs or NaS) are proposed to be strongly related to wave fluctuations. The solitary wave is a particular solution of the partial differential equation whose energy travels as a localized wave packet. A soliton, on the other hand, is a special type of solitary wave that exhibits a particle-like behavior with a strong stable form. For the first time, the solitary wave theory has been used in this research to study the fine structure of SSL/NaS. We performed soliton fitting processes on the observed data from the Andes Lidar Observatory and found out that 24/27 NaS events had exhibited similar features/characteristics to a soliton. Time series of the net anomaly of the NaS revealed the same variation process to the solution of a generalized five-order KdV equation. Our results, therefore, suggested that the NaS phenomenon would be a pertinent tracer for non-linear wave studies in the atmosphere.
Principles for guiding research and innovation toward sustainable and equitable agrifood systems
Authors: Zurek Monika , Wirths Jonathan , Hebinck Aniek , Crawford Scarlett , Lidder Preetmoninder , Prasad P. V. Vara , Tittonell Pablo , Herrero Mario , Compton Julia
Published: September 2023

Investments in research and innovation are critical for transformations toward sustainable agrifood systems and for meeting the Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement. However, the frequent neglect of environmental and social goals by investors remains a major challenge. System-oriented approaches to designing and monitoring innovations can be a promising solution to guide innovations and allow investors to identify those that are more sustainable. This article presents a set of eight ‘Principles for Agrifood Research and Innovation’ developed by an international multi-stakeholder task force including staff of research agencies, funders and impact investors, private sector, non-governmental organizations, and benchmarking organizations. The article explains the rationale for the selection of the principles and describes potential ways forward for their uptake and implementation, building on pilots done by several research and funding organizations.
Complete mitochondrial genome of Ctenophthalmus quadratus and Stenischia humilis in China provides insights into fleas phylogeny
Authors: Chen Bin , Liu Ya-fang , Lu Xin-yan , Jiang Dan-dan , Wang Xuan , Zhang Quan-fu , Yang Guo-ping , Yang Xing
Published: September 2023

Fleas (Order Siphonaptera) are common blood-feeding ectoparasites, which have important economic significance. Limited mitochondrial genome information has impeded the study of flea biology, population genetics and phylogenetics. The Ctenophthalmus quadratus and Stenischia humilis complete mt genomes are described in this study. The samples were collected from Jianchuan, Yunnan plague foci, China. The mt genomes of C. quadratus and S. humilis were 15,938 bp and 15,617 bp, respectively. The gene arrangement of mt genome was consistent with that of other fleas, which include 22 tRNA genes, 13 protein-coding genes, and two rRNA genes, with a total of 37 genes. The relationship between C. quadratus and S. humilis in fleas was inferred by phylogenetic analysis of mt genome sequence datasets. Phylogenetic analyzes showed that the C. quadratus and S. humilis belonged to different species in the same family, and were closely related to Hystrichopsylla weida qinlingensis in the same family; and revealed that the family Hystrichopsyllidae is paraphyletic, supporting the monophyly of the order Siphonaptera. This study decodes the complete mt genomes of the C. quadratus and S. humilis for the first time. The results demonstrate that the C. quadratus and S. humilis are distinct species, and fleas are monophyletic. Analysis of mt genome provides novel molecular data for further studying the phylogeny and evolution of fleas.
Preliminary Analysis of the Performance of an Electric Supersonic Propeller
Authors: Kunze Jens , Paull Allan
Published: September 2023

A preliminary aerodynamic and thermodynamic analysis of a supersonic propeller driven by an electric motor is performed. The analysis is aimed at determining whether such a system is feasible and further and more detailed investigation is warranted. Recent progress in electric energy storage and motors, as well as high temperature and lightweight materials, has opened up the design space for a large number of applications. Electrically powered flight and propellers are among these applications. This study shows that very good aerodynamic and propulsive efficiencies can be achieved with this combination. In this paper, the design space of supersonic propeller blades is explored and the effect of a number of design parameters on the blade efficiency is shown. Further analysis is performed to demonstrate that reasonable efficiency can be achieved at flight Mach numbers from two to six between 15 and 35 km altitude. Finally, a mission-based propeller design study is performed to demonstrate practical system performance and show trade-offs between different parameters.
Task Offloading with Data-Dependent Constraints in Satellite Edge Computing Networks: A Multi-Objective Approach
Authors: Zhang Ruipeng , Feng Yanxiang , Yang Yikang , Li Xiaoling
Published: September 2023

By enabling a satellite network with edge computing capabilities, satellite edge computing(SEC) provides users with a full range of computing service. In this paper, we construct a multi-objective optimization model for task offloading with data-dependent constraints in an SEC network and aim to achieve optimal tradeoffs among energy consumption, cost, and makespan. However, dependency constraints between tasks may lead to unexpected computational delays and even task failures in an SEC network. To solve this, we proposed a Petri-net-based constraint amending method with polynomial complexity and generated offloading results satisfying our constraints. For the multiple optimization objectives, a strengthened dominance relation sort was established to balance the convergence and diversity of nondominated solutions. Based on these, we designed a multi-objective wolf pack search (MOWPS) algorithm. A series of adaptive mechanisms was employed for avoiding additional computational overhead, and a Lamarckian-learning-based multi-neighborhood search prevents MOWPS from becoming trapped in the local optimum. Extensive computational experiments demonstrate the outperformance of MOWPS for solving task offloading with data-dependent constraints in an SEC network.
Research on Automatic Counting of Drill Pipes for Underground Gas Drainage in Coal Mines Based on YOLOv7-GFCA Model
Authors: Chen Tiyao , Dong Lihong , She Xiangyang
Published: September 2023

Gas explosions threaten the safety of underground coal mining. Mining companies use drilling rigs to extract the gas to reduce its concentration. Drainage depth is a key indicator of gas drainage; accidents will be caused by going too deep. Since each drill pipe has the same length, the actual extraction depth is equivalent to the number of drill pipes multiplied by the length of a single drill pipe. Unnecessary labor is consumed and low precision is achieved by manual counting. Therefore, the drill pipe counting method of YOLOv7-GFCA target detection is proposed, and the counting is realized by detecting the movement trajectory of the drilling machine in the video. First, Lightweight GhostNetV2 is used as the feature extraction network of the model to improve the detection speed. Second, the (Fasternet-Coordinate-Attention) FCA network is fused into a feature fusion network, which improves the expression ability of the rig in complex backgrounds such as coal dust and strong light. Finally, Normalized Gaussian Wasserstein Distance (NWD) loss function is used to improve rig positioning accuracy. The experimental results show that the improved algorithm reaches 99.5%, the model parameters are reduced by 2.325 × 106, the weight file size is reduced by 17.8 M, and the detection speed reaches 80 frames per second. The movement trajectory of the drilling rig target can be accurately obtained by YOLOv7-GFCA, and the number of drill pipes can be obtained through coordinate signal filtering. The accuracy of drill pipe counting reaches 99.8%, thus verifying the feasibility and practicability of the method.
Inventory of Urban Building Roof Space and Analysis of Agricultural Production Potential—A Case Study
Authors: Wang Xiaojing , Zhang Xiaoguang
Published: September 2023

Utilizing idle space for agricultural planting can generate production profits while greening the urban environment. How can the space available for agricultural planting in cities be inventoried and quantified, and what is the production potential? With the help of GIS, spatial analysis was carried out, and more objective conclusions were drawn through calculation. This paper takes the roof space in Shibei District of Qingdao as an example to study: First, we analyzed the influencing factors and inventory standards of roof agricultural planting; second, we selected inventory standards for idle roof space inventory and conducted statistical analysis of the data obtained from the inventory. Furthermore, combining the annual yield of vegetables per unit area and the annual consumption standards of vegetables by citizens, we calculated the yield and supply and demand; next, we summarized the research results, analyzed their reliability and the advantages and disadvantages of this inventory, and derived formulas for calculating the agricultural production potential of rooftops and urban spaces. Finally, we concluded that the idle roof area in cities and the potential for agricultural production are significant. The research results indicate that the roof area of urban buildings in the Shibei District of Qingdao is 383.3 hectares, with an annual vegetable production potential of 25,800 tons, which can supply the urban population of 184,300. Based on the above research, it is proposed that rooftop agriculture should be given priority in the future development of urban agriculture, and it is recommended that other urban spaces should be inventoried to promote the development of urban agriculture.
Communicator Extraordinaire: Extracellular Vesicles in the Tumor Microenvironment Are Essential Local and Long-Distance Mediators of Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Mitchell Megan I. , Loudig Olivier
Published: September 2023

Human tumors are increasingly being described as a complex “ecosystem”, that includes many different cell types, secreted growth factors, extracellular matrix (ECM) components, and microvessels, that altogether create the tumor microenvironment (TME). Within the TME, epithelial cancer cells control the function of surrounding stromal cells and the non-cellular ECM components in an intricate orchestra of signaling networks specifically designed for cancer cells to exploit surrounding cells for their own benefit. Tumor-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) released into the tumor microenvironment are essential mediators in the reprogramming of surrounding stromal cells, which include cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs), tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs), tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), and tumor endothelial cells (TECs), which are responsible for the promotion of neo-angiogenesis, immune cell evasion, and invasion which are essential for cancer progression. Perhaps most importantly, tumor-derived EVs play critical roles in the metastatic dissemination of tumor cells through their two-fold role in initiating cancer cell invasion and the establishment of the pre-metastatic niche, both of which are vital for tumor cell migration, homing, and colonization at secondary tumor sites. This review discusses extracellular vesicle trafficking within the tumor microenvironment and pre-metastatic niche formation, focusing on the complex role that EVs play in orchestrating cancer-to-stromal cell communication in order to promote the metastatic dissemination of cancer cells.
Anti-Hyperuricemic, Anti-Arthritic, Hemolytic Activity and Therapeutic Safety of Glycoconjugated Triazole-Phthalimides
Authors: Silva José Guedes da , Aires André de Lima , Cunha Rebeca Xavier da , Monte Talyta Valéria Siqueira do , Assis Shalom Pôrto de Oliveira , Oliveira Ronaldo Nascimento de , Souza Talita Giselly dos Santos , Chagas Cristiano Aparecido , Silva Neto Jacinto da Costa , Araújo Hallysson Douglas Andrade de , Lima Vera Lúcia de Menezes
Published: September 2023

Hyperuricemia, the metabolic alteration that leads to gout or gouty arthritis, is increasing worldwide. Glycoconjugated triazole-phthalimides show potent anti-inflammatory activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti-hyperuricemia effect of glycoconjugated triazole-phthalimides. To develop hyperuricemia, groups of mice received orally potassium oxonate (250 mg/kg) for 7 days, and F2, F3 and F4 glycoconjugated triazole-phthalimides (20 mg/kg), allopurinol (300 mg/kg), and 1% carboxymethylcellulose; indomethacin (2 and 4 mg/kg) was the positive control for anti-arthritic effect. Genotoxic and mutagenic effects were evaluated by the comet and micronucleus assays, respectively. The hemolytic action of the compounds was evaluated. Phthalimides F2, F3 and F4 significantly reduced the levels of serum uric acid, creatinine and urea in hyperuricemic animals. In addition, the compounds were efficient in reducing protein denaturation in a dose-dependent manner. In an interesting way, the histopathological analysis of kidneys from groups treated with F2, F3 and F4 showed a glomerular architecture, with the Bowman’s capsule and renal tubules having a normal appearance and without inflammatory changes. Also, F2 and F4 showed a small increase in micronuclei, indicating a low mutagenic effect, whilst by comet assay only, we could infer that F4 affected the frequency and damage index, thus indicating a very small genotoxic action. Similarly, the phthalimides showed a low degree of erythrocyte hemolysis (<3%). Our data demonstrate that the new glycoconjugate triazole-phthalimides have potential to treat hyperuricemia and its secondary complications, such as gouty arthritis, with a low to non-significant rate of erythrocytes hemolysis, genotoxicity and mutagenicity making these molecules strong candidates as pharmaceutical agents for treatment requiring uric-acid-lowering therapy.
The Comprehensive Analysis of m6A-Associated Anoikis Genes in Low-Grade Gliomas
Authors: Zheng Hui , Zhao Yutong , Zhou Hai , Tang Yuguang , Xie Zongyi
Published: September 2023

The relationship between N6-methyladenosine (m6A) regulators and anoikis and their effects on low-grade glioma (LGG) is not clear yet. The TCGA-LGG cohort, mRNAseq 325 dataset, and GSE16011 validation set were separately obtained via the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Chinese Glioma Genome Altas (CGGA), and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) databases. In total, 27 m6A-related genes (m6A-RGs) and 508 anoikis-related genes (ANRGs) were extracted from published articles individually. First, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between LGG and normal samples were sifted out by differential expression analysis. DEGs were respectively intersected with m6A-RGs and ANRGs to acquire differentially expressed m6A-RGs (DE-m6A-RGs) and differentially expressed ANRGs (DE-ANRGs). A correlation analysis of DE-m6A-RGs and DE-ANRGs was performed to obtain DE-m6A-ANRGs. Next, univariate Cox and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) were performed on DE-m6A-ANRGs to sift out risk model genes, and a risk score was gained according to them. Then, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was implemented based on risk model genes. After that, we constructed an independent prognostic model and performed immune infiltration analysis and drug sensitivity analysis. Finally, an mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA regulatory network was constructed. There were 6901 DEGs between LGG and normal samples. Six DE-m6A-RGs and 214 DE-ANRGs were gained through intersecting DEGs with m6A-RGs and ANRGs, respectively. A total of 149 DE-m6A-ANRGs were derived after correlation analysis. Four genes, namely ANXA5, KIF18A, BRCA1, and HOXA10, composed the risk model, and they were involved in apoptosis, fatty acid metabolism, and glycolysis. The age and risk scores were finally sifted out to construct an independent prognostic model. Activated CD4 T cells, gamma delta T cells, and natural killer T cells had the largest positive correlations with risk model genes, while activated B cells were significantly negatively correlated with KIF18A and BRCA1. AT.9283, EXEL.2280, Gilteritinib, and Pracinostat had the largest correlation (absolute value) with a risk score. Four risk model genes (mRNAs), 12 miRNAs, and 21 lncRNAs formed an mRNA-miRNA-lncRNA network, containing HOXA10-hsa-miR-129-5p-LINC00689 and KIF18A-hsa-miR-221-3p-DANCR. Through bioinformatics, we constructed a prognostic model of m6A-associated anoikis genes in LGG, providing new ideas for research related to the prognosis and treatment of LGG.
Numerical Simulation, Preparation, and Evaluation of Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) Thin-Film Solar Cells
Authors: Albiss Borhan , Al-Widyan Mohammad
Published: September 2023

This study presents the numerical simulation, optimization, preparation, and characterization of Cu(In, Ga)Se2 (CIGS) thin-film solar cells (TFSCs). Different cell parameters were investigated, including Ga/(Ga+In) (GGI) ratios, the thicknesses of CIGS absorption layers, the fill factor (FF), the open-circuit voltage (Voc), and the short-circuit current (Isc). The effects of the simulated parameters on the power conversion efficiency (η) of each prototype CIGS cells were investigated. The optimal GGI ratio was approximately 0.6. Using COMSOL Multiphysics software, a CIGS layer thickness of 2 μm and an η of 17% was calculated, assuming constant operating temperatures. Moreover, prototype CIGS solar cells with various compositions were prepared via a simple and cost-effective method based on sol–gel, sonication, and spin-coating techniques. The microstructures and electrical and optical properties of the CIGS-based solar cells were evaluated using current–voltage (I-V) characteristics, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy (AFM), and UV-vis spectroscopy. The elemental compositions of the solar cell layers were evaluated via energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF). The obtained results were compared with the experimental results. For example, in a prototype cell with a CIGS absorption layer thickness of 2 μm and a GGI ratio of 0.6, the experimental value of η was about 15%. Our results revealed that the agreement between the simulation results and the experimental findings for most of the simulated parameters is quite good. These findings indicate that a non-destructive analysis based on EDXRF is a versatile tool for evaluating CIGS solar cells in a very short time with excellent repeatability for both layer composition and thickness.
Significance of Neonatal Heart Rate in the Delivery Room—A Review
Authors: Nerdrum Aagaard Ellisiv , Solevåg Anne Lee , Saugstad Ola Didrik
Published: September 2023

Background: Heart rate (HR) is considered the main vital sign in newborns during perinatal transition, with a threshold of 100 beats per minute (bpm), below which, intervention is recommended. However, recent changes in delivery room management, including delayed cord clamping, are likely to have influenced normal HR transition. Objective: To summarize the updated knowledge about the factors, including measurement methods, that influence HR in newborn infants immediately after birth. Additionally, this paper provides an overview of delivery room HR as a prognostic indicator in different subgroups of newborns. Methods: We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and Google Scholar with the terms infant, heart rate, delivery room, resuscitation, pulse oximetry, and electrocardiogram. Results: Seven studies that described HR values in newborn infants immediately after birth were included. Pulse oximetry-derived HR percentiles after immediate cord clamping may not be applicable to the current practice of delayed cord clamping and the increasing use of delivery room electrocardiograms. Mask ventilation may adversely affect HR, particularly in premature and non-asphyxiated infants. Prolonged bradycardia is a negative prognostic factor, especially if combined with hypoxemia in infants <32 weeks of gestation. Conclusions: HR assessment in the delivery room remains important. However, the cardiopulmonary transition is affected by delayed cord clamping, gestational age, and underlying conditions.
Food Selectivity in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Statistical Analysis in Southern Italy
Authors: Alibrandi Angela , Zirilli Agata , Loschiavo Federica , Gangemi Maria Cristina , Sindoni Alessandro , Tribulato Graziella , Lo Giudice Roberto , Famà Fausto
Published: September 2023

This paper focuses on autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and food selectivity, both of which are prevalent in the pediatric population. In this context, the authors paid attention to food selectivity and its possible correlation with the atypicality of sensory processes, outlining the useful rehabilitation treatments to draw on. This research included the parents or caregivers of pediatric patients diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder and placed within a therapeutic clinic. The sample is composed of 111 children, males and females, aged between 2 and 10 years, and includes 60 children diagnosed with autism and 51 children with normotypical development, similar in characteristics but without the disorder. The standardized questionnaire, “Brief Autism Mealtime Behavior Inventory”, was developed to examine behavior during meals, especially in children with ASD. The “Brief Sensory Profile”, and the “Child Oral and Motor Proficiency Scale”, were also administered. The results obtained from the analysis lead to evidence of eating and food selectivity difficulty. Additionally, our study demonstrates that food selectivity can be caused by extreme sensory modulation and sensory problems related to the smell, texture, color, and temperature of food. In fact, the results obtained emphasize the correlation between food selectivity and the sensory domains of taste and smell. Furthermore, this research highlights a correlation between motor skills and eating skills, particularly regarding food selectivity, which is closely associated with atypical and disruptive behaviors during meals.
Idiopathic Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis: Demographic Differences and Similarities between Stable, Unstable, and Valgus Types
Authors: Loder Randall T. , Gunderson Zachary , Sun Seungyup
Published: September 2023

Idiopathic slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) is a known disorder in pre/adolescent children with vague hip/knee pain. We wished to study the demographic differences between stable varus, unstable varus, and valgus idiopathic SCFEs using a retrospective review over a 10-year period of SCFE children seen at a tertiary children’s hospital. Standard demographic data was collected, and radiographs were measured to determine the Southwick angle and status of the tri-radiate cartilage. There were 190 patients; 138 had stable varus SCFEs, 45 unstable varus SCFEs, and 7 valgus SCFEs. All unstable SCFEs were varus, and all valgus SCFEs were stable. There were significant differences between the three groups by age at diagnosis, sex, race, SCFE severity, weight percentile, and duration of symptoms. The average age at diagnosis was 11.0 ± 1.2, 11.8 ± 1.8, and 12.3 ± 1.7 years for the valgus, unstable varus, and stable varus groups (p = 0.019), and similarly, SCFE severity was 25° ± 15°, 48° ± 18°, and 35° ± 19° (p = 0.0002) for the three same groups. Patients with valgus SCFEs were mostly female (86%) compared to the stable varus (39.9%) and unstable (47%) groups (p = 0.05) and mostly non-White (86%) (0.011). The duration of symptoms was 4.1 ± 4.1, 2.3 ± 5.0, and 4.5 ± 5.0 months for the valgus, unstable varus, and stable varus groups (p = 0.00005). These three types of idiopathic SCFEs demonstrated differences by age at diagnosis, sex, race, weight percentile, and duration of symptoms.