bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Maglev-fabricated long and biodegradable stent for interventional treatment of peripheral vessels
Authors: Ding Jiandong , Zhang Wanqian , Gao Xian , Zhang Hongjie , Sun Guoyi , Zhang Gui , Li Xin , Qi Haiping , Guo Jingzhen , Qin Li , Shi Daokun , Shi Xiaoli , Li Haifeng , Zhang D.Y. , Guo Wei
Published: January 2024

While chronic limb-threatening ischemia is a serious peripheral artery disease, the lack of an appropriate stent significantly limits the potential of interventional treatment. In spite of much progress in coronary stents, little is towards peripheral stents, which are expected to be long and biodegradable and thus require more breakthroughs in core techniques. Herein, we develop a long & biodegradable stent (LBS) with a length of up to 118 mm based on a metal-polymer composite material. Nitriding treated iron with elevated mechanical performance was applied as the skeleton of the stent, and a polylactide coating was used to accelerate iron degradation. To achieve a well-prepared homogeneous coating on a long stent during ultrasonic spraying, a magnetic levitation (Maglev) was employed. In vivo degradation of the LBS was investigated in rabbit abdominal aorta/iliac arteries, and preclinical safety and efficacy were evaluated in canine infrapopliteal arteries. First-in-man implantation of LBS was carried out in the below-the-knee artery, and the 6–13 months follow-ups demonstrated the feasibility of the first LBS.
Predicting the Effect of Hydro-Climatic and Land-Use Dynamic Variables on Watershed Health Status
Authors: Rajabi Mohammadrasoul , Vafakhah Mehdi , Sadeghi Seyed Hamidreza
Published: January 2024

This study was conducted with the objectives of predicting the effect of changing hydro-climatic variables, predicting the effect of land-use change on the future health status of the Safa-Roud Watershed, and the role of hydro-climatic and land-use variables in the spatial prioritization of sub-watersheds based on watershed health index. To conduct this study, first, key characteristics were extracted based on human, climatic, and hydrological factors for all three indicators of pressure, state, and response. Then, the watershed health index was calculated for the current conditions. After that, watershed health was predicted based on dynamic hydro-climatic and land-use variables for the 10 and 20 years ahead. The health assessment and zoning of the Safa-Roud Watershed showed that the average value and standard deviation of the current pressure index were equal to 0.573 and 0.185, respectively. The lowest value of this index was around 0.290 and related to sub-watershed 5, and the highest value was around 0.840 and related to sub-watershed 11. The initial evaluation of the classification indicated the prevalence of moderate and high-pressure conditions with a range of about 79%. Finally, the physical factors of sub-watersheds (time of concentration with 15.72%) had the most minor role. In general, among the criteria used to calculate the pressure index in the current period, human factors and climatic factors showed the highest percentage of participation in determining the pressure index. The quantification of the current watershed health status and the 10- and 20-year forecast periods showed that the values of the watershed health index were similar. However, the changes in the health index in the sub-watersheds at the beginning of the study period ranged from relatively unhealthy favorable conditions to moderately positive and moderately negative conditions.
Comparative Study of Traditional vs. Digital Learning Materials in Ghanaian Schools
Authors: Atuahene Samspon , Xu Qian , Bentum-Micah Goeffrey
Published: January 2024

This paper examines the escalating concerns within the Ghanaian educational sector, particularly in primary and secondary education. It delves into the influence of rapidly evolving scientific and technological landscapes and their impact on educational quality. A specific focus is placed on the critical role of textbook selection, mainly electronic textbooks, in enhancing students' academic performance. A quasi-experimental study targeted the efficacy of e-textbook selection in a mathematics curriculum among fifth-grade students in a Ghanaian primary school. The rapid advancement in technology and its integration into educational methodologies has prompted a reevaluation of traditional teaching resources, mainly textbooks. In Ghana, this paradigm shift has sparked an interest in understanding how these changes impact student learning outcomes. The selection of appropriate educational materials, especially in foundational subjects like mathematics, is crucial in this digital era. The study employed a quasi-experimental design involving 280 fifth-grade students from a primary school in Ghana. These students, with an average age of nine, were divided into two groups, each using a different type of e-textbook for mathematics learning. The research methodology was designed to measure the impact of these textbooks on student performance quantitatively. The ANCOVA analysis of the data indicated a notable difference in the academic performance between the two groups. The second type of e-textbook group demonstrated a higher average score of 72.75 in the assessment, compared to 66.58 in the first group. This difference (F = 9.34, p < 0.05) was statistically significant, suggesting the choice of e-textbook plays a vital role in academic achievement. The findings suggest that selecting e-textbooks is critical in enhancing student learning outcomes. The study also provides educators with valuable criteria for selecting high-quality e-textbooks. These criteria, grounded in theoretical and empirical research, can significantly influence the educational process and outcomes. This research highlights the potential of e-textbooks to transform educational experiences and outcomes in primary education, particularly in mathematics. It underscores the need to carefully select digital educational resources based on robust educational theories and quality indicators. The implications of this study are significant for educators and policymakers in the Ghanaian education system as they navigate the integration of technology in teaching and learning processes.
A Comprehensive Framework for Evaluating and Predicting Investment Risks in Renewable Energy Projects: A Case Study of Maynak Hydropower Station
Authors: Xu Nanjie , Wan Anxia , Li Yue , Elahi Ehsan , Peng Benhong
Published: January 2024

This study introduces a holistic analysis framework designed to evaluate and predict the investment risks associated with foreign renewable energy initiatives. The primary objective of this framework is to address the inherent uncertainties that often accompany such projects. To achieve this, we employ the variable weight matter-element extension model to establish the project's fundamental reliability function. Subsequently, we enhance this model using evidence theory to determine the project's risk level and generate risk index measurement results. Additionally, we utilize the GM model for forecasting future project risks. To illustrate the practicality of our approach, we provide a case study focused on the risk assessment and prediction for the Maynak Hydropower Station. Our findings indicate that during 2008, 2014, 2020, and 2022, the project faced a high level of investment risk. Key risk indicators included political instability, policy changes, legislative gaps, cultural risks, exchange rate fluctuations, technical challenges, and management risks. Moreover, from 2023 to 2027, the project's investment risk level moderated, with risk measurement results aligning closely with actual circumstances, thus validating the efficacy and applicability of our model.
Capturing ring opening in photoexcited enolic acetylacetone upon hydrogen bond dissociation by ultrafast electron diffraction
Authors: Leone Stephen , Scutelnic Valeriu , Tikhonov Denis , Poullain Sonia Marggi , Haugen Eric , Attar Andrew , Barreau Lou , Chang Kristina , Fidler Ashley , Gaynor James , Lin Yen-Cheng , Yang Jie , Champenois Elio , Wang Xijie , Shen Xiaozhe , Luo Duan , Ji Fuhao , Weathersby Stephen , Vishnevsky Yury , Schnell Melanie , Wolf Thomas , Lin Ming-Fu
Published: January 2024

Photoinduced biological and chemical reactions are often based on key structural transformations of a molecule driven across multiple electronic states. Acetylacetone (AcAc) is a prototypical system for complex chemical pathways involving several conical intersections (CI) and singlet-triplet intersystem crossings (ISC) characterized by distinct geometries. In the gas phase, AcAc is predominantly in a planar ring-like enolic form stabilized by a strong intramolecular O-H∙∙∙O hydrogen bond. Following excitation into the S2 (ππ*) state at 266 nm, acetylacetone undergoes rapid internal conversion followed by intersystem crossing. Such relaxation pathways are associated with structural changes including ring opening, deplanarization and bond elongation. In this work, ultrafast electron diffraction (UED) at the SLAC MeV-UED setup is employed as a direct structural probe with a time resolution of 160 fs. Together with trajectory surface hopping simulations, analysis of the UED data provides a new perspective on the early time nuclear dynamics in acetylacetone. Specifically, AcAc is observed to undergo ring opening, deplanarization and bond elongation all within the first 700 fs after photoexcitation. The monitored dynamics is associated mainly with the nuclear motion on the S1 potential energy surface, formed after very rapid transfer from S2 to S1, allowing AcAc to reach the conical intersection to intersystem crossing. Such timescales of nuclear motion are contrasted with the timescales of electronic transitions in AcAc that were previously characterized with spectroscopic methods, specifically internal conversion (<100 fs) and intersystem crossing (≈ 1.5 ps).
Robust Mendelian Randomization Analysis by Automatically Selecting
Valid Genetic Instruments with Applications to Identify Plasma Protein Biomarkers for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Liu Zhonghua , Yao Minhao , Miller Gary , Vardarajan Badri , Baccarelli Andrea , Guo Zijian
Published: January 2024

Mendelian randomization (MR) uses genetic variants as instrumental variables (IVs) to infer the causal effect of a modifiable exposure on the outcome of interest by removing unmeasured confounding bias. However, some genetic variants might be invalid IVs due to violations of core IV assumptions. MR analysis with invalid IVs might lead to biased causal effect estimate and misleading scientific conclusions. To address this challenge, we propose a novel MR method that first Selects valid genetic IVs and then performs Post-selection Inference (MR-SPI) based on two-sample genome-wide summary statistics. We analyze 912 plasma proteins using the large-scale UK Biobank proteomics data in 54,306 participants and identify 7 proteins (TREM2, PILRB, PILRA,
EPHA1, CD33, RET, CD55) significantly associated with the risk of Alzheimer's disease. We employ AlphaFold2 to predict the 3D structural alterations of these 7 proteins due to missense genetic variations, providing new insights into their biological
functions in disease etiology.
Effects of Climatic Factors on the Intraocular Pressure in Normal Eyes under Everyday Conditions
Authors: Ikushima Toru , Iwase Aiko , Murata Hiroshi , Ueno Morio , Mori Kazuhiko , Ikeda Yoko , Mieno Hiroki , Sotozono Chie , Kinoshita Shigeru , Yamamoto Tetsuya , Araie Makoto
Published: January 2024

Background/Objectives:Little is known about effects of climatic factors on intraocular pressure (IOP) in normal eyes. The purpose of this study is to investigate correlation between climatic factors and Goldmann applanation tonometer-measured IOP (GAT-IOP) in normal eyes under everyday conditions.
Subjects/Methods: Data from 2,341 normal eyes 2,341 subjects; mean age, 56.9 years) who participated in a population-based glaucoma survey in Japan were analyzed using the multivariable regression analysis, in which the GAT-IOP was the response variable; explanatory variables were the hourly time of day and day of the week/month when each subject was examined, ocular and systemic factors reportedly correlated with GAT-IOP and ambient atmospheric pressure (AP), relative humidity (RH), temperature, wind speed, amount of precipitation, and weather.
Results: The AP of the outside air when each subject was examined and the average AP and RH of the outside air over 24 hours before each subject’s examination were positively (P=0.0001, P=0.0056, P=0.0112, respectively) correlated with the GAT-IOP. The central corneal thickness, body mass index, and systolic blood pressure were positively (P<0.0001, P=0.0001, P=0.0007, respectively), corneal curvature radius and age were negatively (P=0.0168, P=0.0056, respectively) correlated with the GAT-IOP. The GAT-IOP measured on various days of the week and months fluctuated significantly (P<0.0001).
Conclusions:After adjusting for the effects of other possibly confounding factors, the GAT-IOP was significantly positively correlated with ambient AP and RH in normal eyes under everyday conditions. The effects of systemic, ocular factors and month on the GAT-IOP obtained were compatible with those previously reported.
Estimation of the size, density, and demographic distribution of the UK pet dog population
Authors: McMillan Kirsten M , Harrison Xavier A , Upjohn Melissa M , Christley Robert M , Casey Rachel A
Published: January 2024

There is limited knowledge about the size of the UK dog population. This makes it difficult to reliably monitor changes in overall population size and characteristics, or the dynamics of dog supply and movement. A repeatable method of measuring the UK dog population would help inform interventions to reduce risks to dog welfare such as poor breeding practices and the illegal import of young or pregnant dogs. However, estimating the total dog population in the UK is not straightforward. Although several estimates of dog numbers have been previously suggested, differing methodologies and limited public access to data sources makes comparison and replication difficult.
In this study, we compiled a comprehensive dataset of UK pet dogs from multiple sources, including breed registries, veterinary corporations, pet insurance companies, animal welfare charities, and academic institutions. Using a hierarchical Bayesian N-mixture model, we estimate 12.64 million (95% CI 8.54-15.16 million) pet dogs within the UK in 2019. Estimates were modelled at the postcode area scale, allowing for aggregation to region or country level, as well as providing associated metrics of uncertainty. Furthermore, we provide spatial demographic estimates, regarding age, breed, cephalic index, and body size.
Establishing a population baseline offers significant analytical benefits to welfare, veterinary, epidemiological, and business stakeholders alike: as it provides the spatial data required to underpin robust canine welfare strategies and campaigns.
Obtaining Optimum Cutting Parameters of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composite (CFRP) Material by Using GA and SA Methods during Drilling
Authors: Gultekin Mehmet Sah , Isik Birhan , Jun Martin Byung-Guk
Published: January 2024

This paper presented a new comprehensive approach to select cutting parameters for surface roughness in drilling of carbonfiber reinforced polymer composite (CFRP) material. The influence of drilling on surface quality of woven CFRP materials was investigated experimentally. The CFRP material (0/90° fiber orientation) was drilled at different cutting parameters and the surface roughness of the hole was measured. Drilling tests were carried out using carbide drills of 8 mm in diameter at 50, 70, and 90 m/min cutting speeds; 2, 3 and 4 flute numbers and 0.2, 0.3, and 0.4 mm/rev feed rates. Simulated Annealing (SA) and Genetic Algorithm (GA) methods were used for optimization. According to the results of the experimental study and optimization technique, optimum cutting parameters were obtained and started to be changed in order to have the best surface quality.
Integrated nutrient management on oat-grasspea intercropping system: An evaluation of system productivity, economics, energetics and carbon footprint
Authors: Biswas Saikat , Das Rupa , Jana Kalyan , Puste A.M.
Published: January 2024

A field investigation was conducted at Central Research Farm of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India during winter seasons of 2020-21 and 2021-22 with the aim to evaluate system productivity, economics, energetics and carbon footprint (CF) of oat-grasspea intercropping systems under different integrated nutrient managements (INM). The experiment was laid out in split-plot design with 4 cropping systems in main plots and 4 levels of nutrient management in sub plots. Sole grasspea cultivation stood best in terms of system productivity, economics, energetics and environment safety by low CF. Moreover, INM involving 75% N through urea + rest N through vermicompost registered significantly higher system productivity (15.49 q ha-1) in case of 3:3 oat+ grasspea intercropping system (CS4N3). Further, this intercropping system registered high economic profitability (net return: US$ 430.4 ha-1, B:C- 1.71) as well as energy indices (energy output: 71179.1 MJ ha-1, net energy gain: 60352.0 MJ ha-1, energy ratio: 6.57 and energy profitability: 5.57). CF was also found relatively less under CS4N3 (Yield scaled CF: 75.3 kg CO2-e q-1). High carbon efficiency (7.92) and carbon sustainability index (6.92) were also recorded by CS4N3 as it produced maximum carbon output (1801.2 kg ha-1). Overall, 3:3 oat+ grasspea intercropping system can be cultivated by the cereal and legume growers of India under intensive cropping scenario using 75% N through urea + rest N through vermicompost as INM option.
Theoretical solvent recovery and grafting application in Xinjiang waste PE based on solubility parameters
Authors: wang xin , Yu Shenglong , Li Yuan , Fang Yue , Wang Yifan , yalikun nuerbiya
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the recovery of waste PE (mulch film) from Xinjiang by solvent recovery method. Under the guidance of solubility parameter theory, combined by HSPiP（version 4.1.07）experiment and HSPs library screening, xylene was selected as the most suitable solvent for recovery of PE. Subsequently, the solid-liquid method was used to graft MAH to PE, and the optimal process conditions were obtained through orthogonal experiments, and the successful grafting of MAH to PE was verified by infrared spectroscopy. Then through XRD and other checks to analyze the PE before and after grafting, MAH did not change the crystal arrangement of PE, nor did it alteration the crystal type, the introduction of MAH enhanced the surface energy of PE and reduced the regularity of the PE structure. The results of DSC showed that after MAH grafting, the nucleation site on the surface of PE increased, which could make the modified PE crystallize rapidly, so that the cold crystallization peak disappeared, and the stability was enhanced, which is of great significance for subsequent asphalt modification.
Research on external contour characterization of fault-karst reservoir based on deep learning and attribute fusion
Authors: Gui Zhipeng , Zhang Junhua , Zhang Yintao , Sun Chong
Published: January 2024

Identification of fracture dissolution has significant implications for exploration and development of fracture-controlled hydrocarbon reservoirs. Traditional methods mainly rely on well logging and seismic attribute analysis to identify dissolution features, but these methods have limited resolution and cannot meet the actual needs of reservoir mapping. In contrast, deep learning techniques can effectively overcome the complex response characteristics of seismic wave fields and demonstrate high learning capabilities. Therefore, this paper proposes a fracture dissolution identification method that involves a comparison between the U-Net++ network and traditional deep convolutional networks. Suitable training parameters are selected to separately train the networks for dissolution and fracture identification. The trained models are then applied to actual seismic data to predict the dissolution and fracture volumes in the study area. By integrating the predicted volumes, the fracture dissolution dataset for the region is obtained. The results show that: (1) The proposed method is effective in identifying dissolution and fracture features, outperforming traditional seismic attributes and coherence techniques. (2) By combining the predicted dissolution and fracture volumes, the relationship between top dissolution features and bottom fracture features in the study area can be clearly delineated. In conclusion, the fracture dissolution identification and characterization method proposed in this paper can serve as a reference for the exploration and development of fracture-controlled hydrocarbon reservoirs in the region.
Research on Multi-Group Monte Carlo Calculations Based on Group Constants Generated by RMC
Authors: Minzhi Xiong , Wenxiang Fang , Dacai Zhang , Ganglin Yu , Kan Wang
Published: January 2024

Nowadays, deterministic two-step or Monte Carlo methods are commonly used in core physics calculations. However, with the development of reactor core design, traditional deterministic two-step methods are becoming increasingly difficult to adapt to complex core and fuel geometry designs. However, Monte Carlo methods require high computational resources to obtain accurate full reactor simulation results. Therefore, using the Monte Carlo two-step method has become a good choice. The Monte Carlo two-step method involves obtaining group constants using the Monte Carlo method at a smaller geometric scale and conducting multi group Monte Carlo transport based on this result. This article uses the Monte Carlo software RMC to perform critical and burnup calculations on a custom core model using different group constant generation methods using the Monte Carlo two-step method. The results show that compared to continuous energy accurate simulation, the Monte Carlo two-step method requires extremely low computational resources and high computational efficiency. Therefore, the Monte Carlo two-step method can provide reference and assistance for subsequent core calculations.
Knowledge, attitude and use of Electronic Cigarettes among Cairo University Medical Students
Authors: mostafa Ola Abdelmoniem , Taha Mahmoud Ahmed
Published: January 2024

Background: electronic cigarettes use has increased exponentially in Egypt and all over the world. However, there is insufficient information about their use of among Cairo University medical students. Therefore, this study was performed to assess e-cigarette knowledge, attitude and use among Cairo University medical students.
Methods: A cross sectional study of 300 consented Cairo university medical students over the period of 1st of November 2023 till 15th of December 2023 using a self- administered questionnaire.
Results:
The mean age was 22.12 ± 1.87. 69.3% were males and 30.7% females. 88.3% heard about e cigarettes, with higher knowledge in clinical years. Main sources of information were the media then friends (41.8% & 37.5%). 14%, 12.7 %, and 7.3 % were cigarette, shisha, and e cigarette smokers; smoking prevalence was higher among males and clinical years’ students (12% &4.7% in clinical and preclinical years, P = 0.02).
39.3%, 10.2% and 3.3% of participants' friends, siblings and parents smoked e cigarettes respectively; compared to 16.7%, 17.9%, and 33% among e smokers. A significantly lower percentage-of e smokers believed that e cigarettes are addictive or cause respiratory problems, and a higher percentage thought that e cigarettes are less harmful, help in smoking cessation, and that their nicotine content is lower than traditional cigarettes. Predictors of e cigarette smoking were being in clinical years, cigarettes and shisha smoking and having friends who are e cigarette smokers.
Conclusion:
The study revealed several students’ misconceptions and a wide variation in their attitudes about the harmful and addictive effects of e cigarettes. This urges the need for development of medical school curriculum to provide the correct information regarding e-cigarettes in order to face the problem of increasing its use in Egypt.
Displacement prediction of fine-grained tailings ponds based on WOA-BP neural network
Authors: Liu Gaolin , Wang Guangjin , Liu Wenlian , Zhao Bing , Lan Rong , Wu Bisheng , Xin Yingming , Liu Xinjie
Published: January 2024

Tailing reservoir is an important auxiliary facility of mine and a dangerous source of man-made debris flow with high potential energy. China’s tailings ponds are shifting toward fine-grained high dams. Accordingly, displacement is one of the key factors affecting pond stability, and it is important to understand the displacement trend of the tailings pond to ensure its safe operation. Accordingly, this paper adopts the whale algorithm to optimize the back propagation(BP) neural network and establishes the WOA-BP neural network nonlinear prediction model to avoid the error generated by the model experiment due to the scaling effect. The infiltration line and displacement data of a tailings pond in Sichuan Province in the past two years are collected consecutively to form a learning sample, which is then used for training to predict the displacement of the tailings pond through the WOA-BP neural network model. Thereafter, these prediction results are compared with the actual monitoring values as well as the BP neural network model prediction values. The results revealed that the relative error of the WOA-BP neural network model prediction results was approximately 4.5%, and the Pearson correlation coefficients were all above 0.998. Compared with the traditional BP neural network model, the optimization model has a stronger search capability, wider application range, higher prediction accuracy, a more global optimal solution, and better response. The nonlinear fuzzy mapping provides new insights into tailings pond displacement and safety prediction.
Analysis of Chemotherapy Regimens on Survival Rate of Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Yulistiani Yulistiani , Utomo Febriansyah Nur , Romadhon Pradana Zaky , Fiddina Nisriyati
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer in Indonesia is among the first with the highest number of new cancer cases with the second mortality in cancer after lung cancer in 2020. Anthracycline-taxane based regimens and taxane-based regimens are often breast cancer chemotherapy modalities that can support increased patient survival. Side effects occur more frequently in combination regimens. The selection of the right regimen is expected to support the improvement of patient survival. This study aims to analyze the survival rate of chemotherapy regimen groups and hazard ratio factors that are thought to affect survival in breast cancer patients. This study used an observational and retrospective cohort method. The statistical analyzes used in this study include Kaplan-Meier analysis to measure survival rates, Log-rank test to observe the differences between regimen groups and Cox proportional hazards regression to analyze factors that influence survival. Patients who were included in the inclusion and exclusion criteria were 71 patients, consisting of 47 patients who received anthracycline-taxane based combination and 24 patients who received taxane-based chemotherapy. The percentage of one-year and two-year survival in the anthracycline-taxane based combination was 93.6% and taxane-based 83.3% (p>0.05). Multivariate analysis showed that stage increased risk 9 times based on hazard ratio values obtained from cox regression tests (HR 9.60; 95% CI 1.60-57.54; p<0.05). Another significant factor in the multivariate analysis was that delaying chemotherapy increased the risk of survival 5 times (HR 5,58; CI 95% 1.12-27.85 ; p<0.05). Based on research, it can be concluded that anthracycline-taxane based and taxane based combination regimens can be used as a treatment modality for breast cancer patients in both early and advanced stages.
Chemically programed nucleic condensates for spatiotemporal control of mammalian gene expression
Authors: Zeng An-Ping , Wang Yukai , Jiang Jian , Xiong Qiqi , Li Shichao , Shao Jiawei , Xie Mingqi
Published: January 2024

Engineering nucleic condensates with chemically inducible gene switches is highly desired but challenging for precise and on-demand regulation of mammalian gene expression. Here, we harness the phase separation capability of biomolecular condensates and describe a versatile strategy to chemically program ligand-dependent gene expression at various stages of interest. By engineering synthetic anchor proteins capable of tethering various genetically encoded condensate structures towards different cellular compartments or gene products of interest, inducible regulation of transcriptional and translational activities was achieved at different endogenous and episomal loci using the same sets of anchor proteins and synthetic condensates. Using such a holistic condensates-based strategy, we not only achieved regulation performances compared favorable to state-of-the art strategies described for CRISPR/Cas9 activity and transcriptional silencing, but further show that chemically inducible retention of mRNA molecules into engineered condensate structures within the nucleus can become a remarkably efficient alternative for translational regulation. Taken together, this work describes a systematic, scalable and universal strategy to regulate mammalian gene expression with substantially reduced (re)engineering labor during gene switch design, and broadens the current toolkit for chemical and synthetic biology.
Connecting the Dots: Assessing Landscape Connectivity Algorithms for Biodiversity Conservation
Authors: Schippers Peter , Pouwels Rogier , Verboom Jana
Published: January 2024

Context
To understand and characterize the dispersal of organisms in a fragmented landscape, scientists often use connectivity matrices - tables that contain the probabilities of successful dispersal between different pairs of patches.
Objective
While mechanistic, individual-based correlated random walk (CRW) models are commonly used to estimate these probabilities, simpler, deterministic alternatives exist based on distance and patch size which are easier to develop, use and understand. However, the relative performance of these simpler algorithms compared to the CRW model is not well understood. We ask, how good are simplified algorithms in mimicking the CRW model?
Method
To address this gap, we compared the connectivity matrices of ten simple algorithms to those of a CRW model across 36 landscape-disperser combinations.
Results
Our results show that the frequently used exponential decay algorithm (EXP) did not perform well, with a mean R2 of 0.745 and a minimum R2 of 0.185 between the connectivities of the EXP model and the CRW model. On the other hand, the CRD-lim model - which uses a constant•radius/distance relation within a maximum inter-patch distance (dmax) - performed best, with a mean R2 of 0.918 and a minimum R2 of 0.809.
Conclusion
Overall, our results show that the CRD-lim algorithm is a good alternative to random walk models when assessing connectivity matrices for a specific landscapes and species in case a full individual-based CRW is not feasible, for example because data are scarce or a multi-species perspective is taken.
Causal relationship between type 2 diabetes and BMD: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Jiang Xiao-Cheng , Li Huan , Ren YangLiang , Wang Ting
Published: January 2024

Summary:When Mendelian randomization (MR) studies were used to investigate the causal relationship between type 2 diabetes and BMD at different sites, there was no causal relationship between type 2 diabetes and lumbar BMD, femoral neck BMD, or forearm BMD.
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to assess the causal relationship between type 2 diabetes and BMD in the lumbar spine, femoral neck, and forearm.
Methods: Based on the aggregated statistical data of a large published genome-wide association study. The IVW method, the MR-Egger method, the WM method, the Simple Mode method, and the Weighted Mode method were used to evaluate the causal relationship between type 2 diabetes and lumbar BMD, femoral neck BMD and forearm BMD. In addition, sensitivity analysis was performed using MR-Egger regression, Cochran's Q test and MR-PRESSO Global test to ensure the robustness of the results.
Results：The results of the inverse variance weighted (IVW) analysis for type 2 diabetes and lumbar BMD showed an odds ratio (OR) of 1.070997 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.9839422 to 1.165754), with a p-value of 0.11279766. Similarly, the IVW analysis for type 2 diabetes and femoral neck BMD showed an OR of 1.041797 (95% CI: 0.9657858 to 1.123791), with a p-value of 0.28944290. For type 2 diabetes and forearm BMD, the IVW analysis resulted in an OR of 1.102443 (95% CI: 0.9433071 to 1.288424), with a p-value of 0.22012100. Heterogeneity tests for type 2 diabetes and lumbar BMD, femoral neck BMD, and forearm BMD did not identify any outlier variables. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the results, and no pleiotropic effects were observed.
Conclusions：There was no causal relationship between type 2 diabetes and lumbar BMD, femoral neck BMD, or forearm BMD.
Prediction of Flood-Prone zones based on Cellular Automata in GIS
Authors: shad rouzbeh , Mousavi Seyed Mojtaba , Ghaemi Marjan
Published: January 2024

Due to climate change and rapid urbanization, urban flooding is on the rise, necessitating effective flood control measures in urban areas. Predicting potential flood-prone areas undergoing Land Use (LU) changes could significantly aid in planning for risk reduction and sustainable urban design. However, there's a scarcity of studies that consider both climate change and LU alterations. This research introduces a novel basin-scale framework utilizing a Future LU Simulation (FLUS) model to evaluate disaster-prone areas' risk from 20-year flood scenarios projected for 2040 and 2060. The Markov-FLUS model was developed and validated using historical data from 2000 to 2020. This model was then employed to simulate LU changes from 2020 to 2060 based on natural scenarios. Focusing on Khorasan Razavi as a case study, it investigates the potential consequences of LU transformations due to ongoing urbanization and vegetation changes in connection with predicted environmental shifts. The findings indicate an anticipated increase in accident-prone areas and constructed land in the studied area in the future. Spatially, this heightened flood risk primarily occurs on the periphery of existing developed areas or converted land. This framework's insights into future flood-prone areas' spatio-temporal characteristics offer valuable guidance for implementing rational flood mitigation measures in the most critical regions for development.
Evaluating adhesion properties of transdermal adhesives using novel skin mimetic substrate
Authors: Bagde Arvind , Mosley-Kellum Keb , Salau Oluwaseyi , Dev Satyanarayan , Modi Nisarg , Singh Mandip
Published: January 2024

Even though, the transdermal patches are evaluated for adhesion testing using current adhesion protocols (based on stainless steel (SS) probe), they fail to correlate to in vivo studies. Therefore, our objective was to print the probes (skin mimetic substrate) using 3D Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) printing using materials with similar surface energy as skin and evaluate the adhesion property of pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs). Additionally, the objective of the present study was to study the effect of various intrinsic factors including coat weight, elastic properties of backing membranes and viscosity of PSAs on adhesion properties of PSAs. Our novel 3D printed polypropylene (PP) probe was successfully printed and postprocessed using FDM printing coupled with automated robotic arm setup for adhesion testing. Probe tack test results showed no significant difference in peak adhesive force in case of skin adhered to SS probe and PP probe. However, PP probe showed about 10.26-fold decrease (p<0.0001) in the adhesive force as compared to SS probe. Effect of coat weight using PP robe results revealed that both amine (PSA-4302) and non-amine (PSA-4501) compatible silicone PSAs showed significant (p<0.05) increase in their adhesion prosperities at 10 mg/cm2 as compared to 5 mg/cm2 coating. Further, choice of backing membrane and viscosity of silicone PSAs also showed significant (p<0.0001) effect on PSAs adhesion property. In conclusion, PP probe could be a promising approach for in vitro adhesion testing of TDS products. Further, intrinsic properties including coat weight and viscosity of silicone PSAs significantly affected their adhesion properties.
Construction and validation of a bioinformatics-based screen for Cuproptosis-related genes and risk model for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Hu Rui , Xiao Zhen , Qiao Mingyu , Liu Chaoyu , Wu Guiyou , Wang Yunyi , Huang Zhongshi , Dong Mingyou
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to validate the correlation between core cuproptosis genes (CRGs) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) from both bioinformatics and experimental perspectives and also to develop a risk prediction model. To this end, 78 human-derived temporal back samples were analyzed in GSE109887, and then the biological functions of the resulting CRGs were explored by cluster analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and similar methods to identify the best machine model. Moreover, a nomogram was developed to validate the model. The mRNA and protein expression of CRGs were validated using the SH-SY5Y cell model and SD rat animal model. The RT-qPCR and western blot results showed that the mRNA and protein expression content of DLD, FDX1, GLS, and PDHB decreased, and the DBT expression content increased in AD, which supported the bioinformatic analysis results. CRGs expression alterations affected the aggregation and infiltration of certain immune cells. The study results also confirmed the accuracy and validity of AD diagnostic models and nomograms. This study validated the correlation between five CRGs and AD, indicating a significant difference between AD patients and healthy individuals. Therefore, CRGs are expected to serve as relevant biomarkers for the diagnosis and prognostic monitoring of AD.
Individualized Physiology-Based Digital Twin Model for Sports Performance Prediction : A Reinterpretation of the Margaria-Morton Model
Authors: Boillet Alice , Messonnier Laurent A. , Cohen Caroline
Published: January 2024

Performance in many racing sports depends on the ability of the athletes to produce and maintain the highest possible worki.e., the highest power for the duration of the race. To model this energy production in an individualized way, an adaptation anda reinterpretation (including a physiological meaning of parameters) of the three-component Margaria-Morton model wereperformed. The model is applied to the muscles involved in a given task. The introduction of physiological meanings waspossible thanks to the measurement of physiological characteristics for a given athlete. A method for creating a digital twin wastherefore proposed. The twins thus created were validated by comparison with field performance, experimental observations,and literature data. Simulations of record times and 3-minute all-out tests were consistent with experimental data. Consideringthe literature, the model provided good estimates of the time course of muscle metabolite concentrations (e.g., lactate andphosphocreatine). It also simulated the behavior of oxygen kinetics at exercise onset and during recovery. This methodologyhas a wide range of applications, including prediction and optimization of the performance of individually modeled athletes.
In-target Production of [11C]CH4 from a Nitrogen/Hydrogen Gas Target as a Function of Beam Current, Irradiation Time, and Target Temperature
Authors: Helin Semi , Rajander Johan , Aromaa Jussi , Arponen Eveliina , Helin Jatta S , Solin Olof
Published: January 2024

Background
Production of [11C]CH4 from gas targets is notorious for weak performance with respect to yield, especially when using high beam currents. However, airborne carrier carbon especially is better in control than in [11C]CO2 production, so that in-target–produced [11C]CH4 is superior with respect to molar activity. Post-target conversion of [11C]CO2 to [11C]CH4 is widely used in 11C-radiochemistry, but this roundabout method retains the low molar activity challenges of the original [11C]CO2. We studied the in-target production of [11C]CO2 and [11C]CH4 from nitrogen gas targets as a function of beam current, irradiation time, and target temperature.
Results
[11C]CO2 production was practically unchanged across the range of varied parameters, but the [11C]CH4 yield, presented in terms of saturation yield YSAT(11CH4), had a negative correlation with beam current and a positive correlation with target chamber temperature. A formulated model equation indicates behavior where the [11C]CH4 formation follows a parabolic graph as a function of beam current. The negative square term, i.e., the yield loss, is postulated to arise from Haber-Bosch–like NH3 formation: N2 + 3H2 → 2NH3. The studied conditions suggest that the NH3 (liq.) would be condensed on the target chamber walls, thus depleting the hydrogen reserve needed for the conversion of nascent 11C to [11C]CH4.
Conclusions
[11C]CH4 production can be improved by increasing the target chamber temperature, which is presented in a mathematical formula. Our observations have implications for targetry design (geometry, gas volume and composition, pressure) and irradiation conditions, providing specific knowledge to enhance [11C]CH4 production at high beam currents. Increased [11C]CH4 radioactivity is an obvious benefit in radiosynthesis in terms of product yield and molar radioactivity.
Understanding Dental Caries in Adults: A Cross-Sectional Examination of Risk Factors and Dietary Behaviors
Authors: Elsahoryi Nour , Maghaireh Ghada , Hammad Fwziah
Published: January 2024

Aim
This study aimed to evaluate dental caries prevalence using the Decay-Missing-Filled Teeth (DMFT) index while exploring the relationship between DMFT scores and various factors such as dietary behaviors and health-related practices.
Material and Methods
This cross-sectional analysis included 402 adults aged 18 to 59 attending oral health outpatient centers, selected through random sampling. Participants completed a validated nutrition questionnaire, and dental professionals assessed their DMFT index.
Results
The study revealed that 40.3% of patients fell into the "High DMFT index" category (scores exceeding 13.9), while only 11.90% were in the "very low DMFT index" group. Higher education correlated inversely with DMFT scores, indicating lower scores for individuals with greater educational attainment. Notably, regular tooth brushing and mouthwash use were associated with lower DMFT index values, reflecting improved oral health. Conversely, habits such as consuming sugary snacks, sweetened drinks, and frequent snacking between meals were linked to higher DMFT index scores, indicating an elevated risk of dental caries.
Conclusion
This study underscores the importance of proper oral hygiene and mindful dietary choices in reducing the likelihood of tooth decay, providing valuable insights into dental caries levels and associated factors.
Volume regulated anion channel blocker, DCPIB modulates microglial M1/M2 polarization via MAPK pathway and attenuates oxidative stress after AIS
Authors: Cao Guihua , Guo Jianbin , Yang Kaikai , Xu Rong , jia Xin , Wang Xiaoming
Published: January 2024

Microglia play a central role in maintenance of brain homeostasis. Microglial polarization plays an important role in the recovery of homeostasis after acute ischemic stroke (AIS). DCPIB, as a blocker of volume-regulated ion channel plays an important role in maintaining intracellular homeostasis. But the relationship between DCPIB and microglial M1/M2 polarization is currently unclear. This study is to investigate the relationship between DCPIB and microglial M1/M2 polarization after AIS. C57BL/6 mice were subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). DCPIB was given within 5 min after reperfusion. Behavior assessments were conducted at 1, 3, and 7 days after tMCAO. Pathological injuries were evaluated by TTC, HE and Nissl staining and immunofluorescence co-staining (IFC). The phenotypic variations of microglia were examined by IFC. The levels of inflammatory cytokines were analyzed by RT-PCR and ELISA. In mice tMCAO model, DCPIB remarkably reduced mortality, pathological injury and improved behavioral performance and alleviated. DCPIB significantly inhibited inflammatory response, promoted the conversion of M1 microglia to the M2 via MAPK pathway and protected neurons from microglia-mediated inflammatory response. In addition, it was found that DCPIB inhibited oxidative stress after AIS. In conclusions, DCPIB attenuates ischemia-reperfusion injury via regulating microglial M1/M2 polarization and oxidative stress.
Unveiling Cancer Risk in ANCA-Associated Vasculitis: Result from the Turkish Vasculitis Study Group (TRVaS)
Authors: Bilgin Emre , Yıldırım Tuba Demirci , Ulusoy Bahar Özdemir , Öğüt Tahir Saygın , Karabacak Murat , Çağdaş Öznur Sadioğlu , Yıldırım Reşit , Güven Deniz Can , Akleylek Cansu , Ediboğlu Elif , Kutu Muhammet Emin , Özgür Duygu , Kardaş Riza Can , Bölek Ertuğrul Çağrı , Uzun Gül Sandal , Özsoy Zehra , Sarıyıldız Emine , Ayan Gizem , Armağan Berkan , Erden Abdussamet , Kılıç Levent , Erbasan Funda , Alibaz-Öner Fatma , Aşıcıoğlu Ebru , Yazici Ayten , Bilge Nazife Şule , Küçük Hamit , Çelik Selda , Bes Cemal , Akar Servet , Yılmaz Neslihan , Kaşifoğlu Timuçin , Cefle Ayşe , Direskeneli Haner , Yazısız Veli , Dizdar Ömer , Omma Ahmet , Önen Fatoş , Karadağ Ömer
Published: January 2024

Aim:To investigate cancer incidence in patients with ANCA-associated vasculitides (AAV), compare it with the age/sex-spesific cancer risk of Turkish population, explore independent risk factors associated with cancer.
Methods:This multicenter, incidence case-control study was conducted using TRVaS registry. AAV patients without cancer history before AAV diagnosis were included. Demographic and AAV-related data of patients with and without an incident cancer were compared. Standardized cancer incidence rates were calculated using age/sex-spesific 2017 Turkish National Cancer Registry data for cancers (excluding non-melanoma skin cancers). Cox regression was performed to find factors related to incident cancers in AAV patients.
Results:Of 461 AAV patients (236[51.2%] male), 19 had incident cancers after 2022.8 patient-years follow-up. Median(IQR) disease duration was 3.4(5.5) years, and 58(12.6%) patients died [7 with cancer and 1 without cancer (log-rank,p=0.04)]. Cancer-diagnosed patients were older, mostly male, and more likely to have anti-PR3-ANCA positivity. The cumulative cyclophosphamide dose was similar in patients with and without cancer. Overall cancer risk in AAV was 2.1(SIR)(1.3-3.2),p=0.004); lung and head-neck [primary target sites for AAV] cancers were the most common. In Cox regression, male sex and ≥60 years of age at AAV diagnosis were associated with increased cancer risk, while receiving rituximab was associated with decreased cancer risk.
Conclusions:Cancer risk was 2.1-times higher in AAV patients than the age/sex-spesific cancer risk of Turkish population, despite a high rate of rituximab use and lower dose of cyclophosphamide doses. Vigilance in cancer screening for AAV patients covering lung, genitourinary, and head-neck regions, particularly in males and the elderly, is vital.