bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
SOC Estimation for Lithium Batteries Based on Fractional Order Model and Robust Unscented Kalman Filter
Authors: Xing Likun , Luo Wenfei , Liu Xiao , Xiang Biao
Published: April 2023

Lithium batteries are widely used due to their advantages such as high energy density, stable performance, low pollution, and long recyclable life. Accurate SOC estimation is important for the use of lithium batteries. To address the problem of low accuracy of SOC estimation by traditional methods, this paper proposes a joint method of fractional order robust unscented Kalman filter (FORUKF) and robust unscented Kalman filter (RUKF) to estimate SOC. The method is based on a fractional order model (FOM) that combines the unscented transformation (UT) technique, the H∞ observer and the joint estimator. Specifically, an adaptive genetic algorithm (AGA) was first used to identify the parameters of the FOM for lithium batteries and to verify the accuracy of the model. Estimation and updating of the ohmic resistance R0 and the capacity QN in the model in real-time by RUKF and then estimation of the SOC by FORUKF. Finally, the accuracy of FORUKF-RUKF was verified under the Federal Urban Driving Schedule (FUDS), US06 Highway Driving Schedule and Beijing Dynamic Stress Test (BJDST). According to the results, the FORUKF-RUKF estimated SOC was found to have better accuracy and robustness than the RUKF, FOUKF and EKF.
Effectiveness of Utilizing Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques to Estimate the Exposure to Agricultural Pesticides Drift over Macon, Alabama
Authors: Afandi Gamal El , Ismael Hossam , Fall Souleymane , Ankumah Ramble
Published: April 2023

Agricultural workers utilize pesticides extensively on their farms to control weeds and insects, as well as increase crop productivity. Despite these advantages, their excessive use poses a seri-ous threat, particularly to the population living at the nexus of urban and rural areas. Exposure to pesticide drift can be investigated using geospatial tools. Remote sensing technology and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques have been used intensively and constitute trusted tools in different sectors, especially in agriculture. Remote sensing depends on pro-cessing the electromagnetic radiation reflected and emitted from the ground target and can be used to identify the spectral signature of crops exposed to pesticides. GIS has powerful tools for building a spatial geo-database of pesticide exposure drift. Therefore, the major objective of the research was to explore the effectiveness of using remote sensing and GIS techniques to estimate the exposure to pesticides in Macon County (Alabama). To achieve this objective, Maximum Likelihood Classification (MLC) was used to identify accurate cropland areas. The Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2 satellite images. Available agricultural pesticide usage data (seven of the seventeen organophosphates used in Alabama) were obtained through the United States Geological Survey (USGS). The results indicated that 6.6% of Macon County’s residents are considered potentially severely exposed, and the potentially affected population resides primarily in rural areas. While 23 percent of residents of rural edges are considered to have potentially medium to high expo-sure. In addition, 38% of residents living in suburban areas are considered to have potentially low-to-medium exposure. Also, the results indicated that both GIS and remote sensing can play an effective role in estimating pesticide exposure drift.
Effect of Steel Slag Powder Content and Curing Condition on the Performance of Alkali Activated Materials Based Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) Matrix
Authors: Shi Kangyi , Deng Hongyang , Hu Jinxuan , Zhou Junqi , Cai XinHua , Liu Zhiwei
Published: April 2023

The accumulation of steel slag and other industrial solid wastes has caused serious environmental pollution and resource waste. The resource utilization of steel slag is imminent. In this paper, alkali activated materials ultra-high performance concrete (AAM-UHPC) was prepared by replacing GGBFS powder with different proportions of steel slag powder, and its workability, mechanical properties, curing condition, microstructure, and pore structure were investigated. The results illustrate that the incorporation of steel slag powder can significantly delay the setting time and improve the flowability of AAM-UHPC, making it possible for engineering applications. The mechanical properties of AAM-UHPC showed a tendency to increase and then decrease with the increase of steel slag dosing, and reached the best performance at 30% dosage of steel slag. The maximum compressive strength and flexural strength are 157.1 MPa and 16.32 MPa, respectively. High temperature steam or hot water curing at early age was beneficial to the strength development of AAM-UHPC, but continuous high temperature hot and humid curing would lead to strength inversion. When the dosage of steel slag is 30%, the average pore diameter of the matrix is only 8.43nm, and the appropriate steel slag dosage can reduce the heat of hydration and refine the pore size distribution, making the matrix more dense.
Joint Flood Risks in the Grand River Watershed, Ontario Canada
Authors: Unnikrishnan Poornima , Ponnambalam Kumaraswamy , Agrawal Nirupama , Karray Fakhri
Published: April 2023

According to the World Meteorological Organization, since 2000, there has been an increase in global flood-related disasters by 134 percent as compared to the two previous decades. Efficient flood risk management strategies necessitate a holistic approach to evaluating flood vulnerabilities and risks. Catastrophic losses can occur when the peak flow values in the rivers in a basin coincide. Therefore, estimating the joint flood risks in a region is vital, especially when frequent occurrences of extreme events are experienced. This study focuses on estimating the joint flood risks due to river flow extremes in the Grand River watershed in Canada. Determining the interdependence of floods at multiple locations using state-of-the-art tools, the associated damage probabilities, and their costs will be beneficial to various stakeholders, such as the insurance industry, the disaster management sector, and most importantly, the public.
Response Surface Optimisation for the Development of Novel Ganoderic Acid Encapsulated Nanodispersions Using the Combination of Ultrasonic Cavitation and Solvent Evaporation Strategies
Authors: Cheng Wai Kit , Tan Khang Wei , Tang Siah Ying , Cheng Poh Guat , Pang Cheng Heng , Tao Yang , Manickam Sivakumar
Published: April 2023

Ganoderic Acid (GA), a major bioactive compound isolated from an oriental medicinal mushroom, i.e. Ganoderma tsugae, has traditionally been found to have significant medicinal properties. As a result of GA's poor solubility in water, formulation poses several challenges. Additionally, the traditional method of administering it via alcohol always results in unfavorable patient side effects. In order to overcome these problems, Ganoderma Tsugae extracts obtained by ethanol extraction were encapsulated in nanodispersions by ultrasonic cavitation and solvent evaporation to maximise bioavailability. Resultant nanodispersions contained Ganoderic acid in a hydrophobic core with a mean particle size of no more than 200 nm and a very narrow particle distribution. An analysis of the interactions between the control variables and the process optimisation was conducted using the Response Surface Methodology (RSM). Based on the results of the experiment, it was found that the particle size of nanodispersions was influenced by the Hydrophilic-Lipophilic Balance (HLB) number and the evaporation temperature. Moreover, the physical stability of micellar systems is generally determined by the organic phase within them. Regarding formulation stability, the zeta average of the nanodispersions remained virtually unchanged in solutions with different pH levels and short-term storage (14 days) at room temperature. Overall, it has been demonstrated that Ganoderic acid nanodispersions can be efficiently generated by combining ultrasound cavitation and solvent evaporation.
Supplement of Succinate Reduces Lipid Deposition and Improves Metabolic Function in Obese Mice
Authors: Ji Tengteng , Fang Bing , Zhang Ming , Liu Yaqiong
Published: April 2023

The number of obese people worldwide is rising dramatically, with 51% of the global population expected to be obese or overweight by 2035. And it is usually involved in a variety of chronic diseases, including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. In the process of obesity, adipose tissue expands indefinitely, which induces metabolic dysfunction. Here, we confirm the role of succinate in the intervention of obesity. Through adding succinate to drinking water, high-fat diet induced obese mice were associated with the lower fat mass, and improved glucose tolerance and energy expenditure. These metabolic changes are accompanied by increased expression of lipolysis genes and decreased lipogenesis genes, especially in subcutaneous adipose tissue. In summary, supplement of succinate improves lipid deposition and metabolic health in obese mice.
Inflammatory Modulation in Pregnancy Using Enriched Marine Oil Supplements and Their Possible Role in the Prevention of Obstetric Complications
Authors: Regidor Pedro-Antonio , Eiblwieser Johanna , Steeb Theresa , Rizo Jose Miguel
Published: April 2023

The use of selective pro resolving mediators including the monohydroxylates are promising substances for the management of different acute and chronic diseases.In the field of obstetrics many clinical entities like uterine contractions or the occurrence of pre-eclampsia are still serious complications during pregnancy.The use of enriched marine oil nutritional’s may contribute to an attenuation of these diseases as the containing selective pro resolving mediators exhibit pro resolutive actions that can positively modulate inflammatory diseases and those leading to serious obstetrical complications.
Research on SLAM and Path Planning Method of Inspection Robot in Complex Scenarios
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Ma Xi , Li Zhaowei
Published: April 2023

Factory safety inspections are crucial for ensuring safe production. However, manual inspections present issues such as low efficiency and high workload. Inspection robots provide an efficient and reliable solution for completing patrol tasks. The development of robot localization and path planning technologies provides guarantees for factory inspection robots to autonomously complete inspection tasks in complex environments. This paper studies mapping and localization, as well as path planning methods for robots in order to meet the application requirements of factory inspections. Two SLAM application systems based on multiple-line laser radar and vision are designed for different scenarios in consideration of the limitations of cameras and laser sensors in terms of their own characteristics and applicability in different environments. To address the issue of low efficiency in inspection tasks, a hybrid path planning algorithm that integrates the A-star algorithm and time elasticity band algorithm is proposed. This algorithm effectively solves the problem of path planning in complex environments that is prone to falling into local optimal solutions, thereby improving the inspection efficiency of robots. Experimental tests show that the designed SLAM and path planning methods can meet the needs of robot inspection in complex scenes and have good reliability and stability. The code used in this article is open source and can be accessed at https://github.com/Mxiii99/RSPP_CS.git.
The Genome of Varunaivibrio sulfuroxidans Strain TC8T, a Metabolically Versatile Alphaproteobacterium from the Tor Caldara Gas Vents in the Tyrrhenian Sea
Authors: Patwardhan Sushmita , Phan Jonathan , Smedile Francesco , Vetriani Costantino
Published: April 2023

Varunaivibrio sulfuroxidans type strain TC8T is a mesophilic, facultatively anaerobic, facultatively chemolithoautotrophic alphaproteobacterium, isolated from a sulfidic shallow-water marine gas vent located at Tor Caldara, Tyrrhenian Sea, Italy. V. sulfuroxidans belongs to the family Thalassospiraceae within the Alphaproteobacteria, with Magnetovibrio blakemorei as its closest relative. The genome of V. sulfuroxidans encodes the genes involved in sulfur, thiosulfate and sulfide oxidation, as well as nitrate and oxygen respiration. The genome encodes the genes involved in carbon fixation via Calvin-Benson-Bassham cycle, in addition to genes involved in glycolysis and TCA cycle, indicating a mixotrophic lifestyle. Genes involved in the detoxification of mercury and arsenate are also present. The genome also encodes a complete flagellar complex, one intact prophage and one CRISPR, as well as a putative DNA uptake mechanism mediated by the type IVc (aka Tad pilus) secretion system. Overall, the genome of Varunaivibrio sulfuroxidans indicates that the bacterium is metabolically versatile and well-adapted to the dynamic environmental conditions of sulfidic gas vents.
Interaction Effects of Cultivars and Nutrition on Quality and Yield of Tomato
Authors: Rusu Oana-Raluca , Mangalagiu Ionel , Amăriucăi-Mantu Dorina , Teliban Gabriel-Ciprian , Cojocaru Alexandru , Burducea Marian , Mihalache Gabriela , Roșca Mihaela , Caruso Gianluca , Sekara Agnieszka , Stoleru Vasile
Published: April 2023

Tomato is considered the most important vegetable crop worldwide. Improving the nutritional value of fruits must be based on sustainable production in terms of varieties and fertilization management. This study aimed to improve the nutritional value (total soluble solids, acidity, lycopene, β-carotene, polyphenols, macro and microelements) of two tomato varieties (‘Cristal’ and ‘Siriana’) under three fertilization types (NPK chemical fertilizer, chicken manure and biological fertilizer with microorganisms) for the greenhouse. Primary metabolism compounds do not vary significantly according to the type of fertilizer used. The results for the antioxidant compounds showed a better effect of biological fertilization compared to chemical fertilizer and control unfertilized. The tomato fruits from the local cultivar (‘Siriana’) are richer in nutritional compounds such as rutin, regardless of the type of fertilization, which denotes a good ability to adapt to crop conditions. Tomato cultivars reacted positively to microbiological fertilization compare to chemical, thus producing nutritious fruits under sustainable management. Tomato fruits were richer in the quality of microelement contents.
Zooplankton community dynamics in response to water trophic state in integrated multitrophic aquaculture
Authors:   Universidade Estadual Paulista “Júlio de Mesquita Filho”, Ibrahim Adriana Nabil Abdel Fattah , Castilho-Noll Maria Stela Maioli , Valenti Wagner Cotroni
Published: April 2023

Integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) is an alternative means to optimize feed usage in aquaculture which combines species of different trophic levels. The addition of substrate to IMTA has also been used to promote a lower release of phosphorus, thus minimizing eutrophication and impacts of effluents. In these aquaculture systems, the zooplankton community is important because it acts as a link in trophic chains. This study aimed to verify the dynamics and the structure of the zooplankton community in IMTA (tilapia-prawn), in response to trophic conditions in earthen ponds with different substrates. The object of the study was 12 earthen ponds organized in three treatments: no substrate (control), geotextile substrate, and bamboo substrate. Zooplankton samples were taken biweekly through a water bilge pump. Rotifers and microcrustaceans were identified and counted to determine changes in community diversity during the experiment. Eutrophication was determined through phosphorus and chlorophyll water concentrations. There were no differences in zooplankton communities among treatments, even though increases in levels of eutrophication of the system heavily influenced this community, by altering its diversity and abundance. Small organisms were the most representative ones under polyculture eutrophic conditions.
Birth Preparedness Plans and Status Disclosure Among Pregnant Women Living with HIV Who are Receiving Antiretroviral Therapy in Ibadan, Southwest, Nigeria
Authors: Akinwaare Margaret O. , Okanlawon Funmilayo A. , Popoola Monisola A. , Adetunji Omotayo O.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Promoting the maternal health of pregnant women who are living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV; [PWLH]) is key to reducing maternal mortality and morbidity. Thus, inadequate birth preparedness plans, non-institutional delivery, and status concealment among PWLH contribute to the spread of HIV infection and threaten the prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT). Therefore, this study aimed to assess the birth preparedness plan and status disclosure among PWLH, as well as the prevalence of HIV infection among pregnant women.

Methods:

The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional research design; a quantitative approach was used for data collection. Three healthcare facilities that represented the three levels of healthcare institutions and referral centers for the care of PWLH in the Ibadan metropolis were selected for the recruitment process. A validated questionnaire was used to collect data from 77 participants within the targeted population. Ethical approval was obtained prior to the commencement of data collection.

Results:

The prevalence rate of HIV infection among the participants was 3.7%. Only 37.1% of the participants had a birth preparedness plan. A total of 40% of the participants tested for HIV, because testing was compulsory for antenatal registration. Only 7.1% of the participants had their status disclosed to their partners. Although 90% of the participants proposed delivering their babies in a hospital, only 80% of these participants had their status known in their proposed place of birth.

Conclusion and Global Health Implications:

The prevalence of HIV infection among pregnant women is very low, which is an indication of improved maternal health. However, the level of birth preparedness plan and status disclosure to partners are equally low, and these factors can hinder PMTCT. Institutional delivery should be encouraged among all PWLH, and their HIV status must be disclosed at their place of birth.
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome
Authors: Kim Dong Wook , Oh Byeong Ho , Lee Jong Beom
Published: April 2023

Thoracic outlet syndrome (TOS) is a constellation of symptoms caused by the compression of neurovascular structures at the superior aperture of the thorax, properly referred to as the thoracic inlet. However, there is no consistent clinical presentation or definition. Based on a comprehensive literature review, this article presents the etiology, epidemiology, and clinical diagnostics of TOS, as well as the possibilities and outcomes of surgical treatment. The diagnosis and treatment are contentious, and some even question the existence of TOS. Its symptoms are often confused with those of distal compression neuropathies or cervical radiculopathies. The various surgical approaches for this syndrome are evaluated according to their ability to facilitate wide exposure, their potential morbidity, and their beneficial results. Most patients suffering from any form of TOS can benefit from surgical treatment. The duration of symptoms, socioeconomic factors and most notably, a stringent diagnostic workup and an adequate operative approach are important.
Investigating the Mean Residence Time in a Two-Phase Oil-Water Separator Using Volume of Fluid Multiphase Theory in Computational Fluid Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Dehghan Yeke Baghi Mohammad , Karimi Mehdi
Published: April 2023

Multiphase separators are essential to chemical units, especially in the oil and gas industry. Because separators are usually the first equipment installed in the oil and gas units, their performance directly affects other equipment. A two-phase oil-water separator was investigated in this study. Based on the average residence time reported for the pilot separator, the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation was validated. The multiphase volume of fluid (VOF) theory in Ansys Fluent software is used for the simulation. Initially, the effect of halving the geometry from its line of symmetry was investigated to see if the halved geometry could replace the complete geometry in the simulation. After validation, the effect of four different inlet deflectors on the mean residence time (MRT) was investigated. A spherical inlet deflector and three plate inlet deflectors with varying angles were tested to examine the effects of inlet deflectors. Among the plate inlet deflectors, the one with an angle between the plates of 105 degrees had the highest MRT and the separator with an angle between the plates of 135 degrees had the lowest MRT. This is because of the fluid conduction by the separator and its collision with its wall. The spherical input deflector increases the MRT by 8.9% compared to the separator without the input deflector.
A non-invasive nomogram predicting future lung metastasis in hepatocellular carcinoma: a multi-center cohort study
Authors: Huang Jianwen , Zheng Youbing , Wang Xiaofeng , Zhang Jie , Li Yong , Chen Xudong , Li Xiaoqun , He Xiaofeng , Duan Chongyang , Yan Jianfeng , Fu Sirui , Lu Ligong
Published: April 2023

Purpose Patients with hepatocellular carcinoma at higher risk of future lung metastasis should be identified for early diagnosis and treatments. Methods From 2006 to 2016, 352 multi-center cases were retrospectively reviewed and separated into training and validation datasets. Clinical factors and radiological parameters were used to construct models through combining backward stepwise hazard models with the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator method. Discrimination and calibration of both datasets were tested. We then subdivided patients according to our model and compared their time to lung metastasis and overall survival (OS). Multivariate regression analysis was used to determine whether subgroup was an independent factor for OS. Results The best model comprised maximum diameter, fusion lesions, ascites, alpha-fetoprotein level, and regional lymph node metastasis. The area under curve for predicting one-, two-. and three-year lung metastasis free survival were 0.78, 0.92, and 0.87 (training dataset), and 0.72, 0.72, and 0.71 (validation dataset), respectively, with sufficient calibration in both datasets. Subgroups separated according to the median score of best model showed significant differences in time to lung metastasis (training, p < 0.001; validation, p = 0.002) and OS (training, p < 0.001; validation, p < 0.001). Subgroupings were significant in multivariate regression for OS in both datasets: hazard ratio (HR) = 0.435 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.259–0.730), p = 0.002 in the training dataset; HR = 0.341 (95% CI: 0.178–0.653), p = 0.001 in the validation dataset. Conclusion Assisted by our model, patients at high risk of future lung metastasis could be identified. For high risk population, routine chest CT should be arranged, and more combination therapies should be explored.
Understanding the Impact of Public Charging Infrastructure on the Consideration to Purchase an Electric Vehicle in California
Authors: Hoogland Kelly , Kurani Ken , Hardman Scott , Chakraborty Debapriya
Published: April 2023

This research tests an implicit assumption in policies promoting public investment in plug-in electric vehicle (PEV) charging infrastructure: people who are not already interested in PEVs will see public PEV charging. Data from a survey representing all car-owning households in California are combined with data on public PEV charging and PEV registrations to estimate a structural equation model of the extent to which participants have considered acquiring a battery electric vehicle (BEV) or plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV), and whether participants report seeing PEV charging. The model controls for socio-economic and demographic measures and participants’ awareness, knowledge, and assessments of PEVs. The model also controls for the known spatial correlation between PEV registrations and public charging locations. An extension is made, via logistic ordinal regression modeling, to further assess whether charger density in the vicinity of a workplace affects the results. All results contradict the assumption that people will see charging infrastructure and that more charging—rather than more people seeing charging—means more people will consider purchasing a BEV or PHEV. Rather, prior interest, i.e., awareness, knowledge, and positive assessments of PEVs, allow people to see PEV charging. In short, interest in PEVs is a prerequisite to people seeing PEV charging.
Risk factor analysis of hemorrhagic cystitis (HC) after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in children with severe thalassemia
Authors: Dou Hui-Hong , Luo Jian-Ming , Zhao Yan-Jun , Wang Ji-Gan , Qin Yuan-Han
Published: April 2023

Purpose To explore the possible risk factors for hemorrhagic cystitis (HC).Methods We retrospectively analyzed 152 cases of severe thalassemia in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from January 2011 to December 2021 in our hospital. Evaluating incidence rate、occurrence time and duration of HC. Analysis of age,the degree of blood type compatibility, HLA matching configuration,the amount of CD34 + cells, Cyclosporin A concentration, Whether complications such as infection, GvHD and other complications were combined, Classification of risk of thalassemia (pretransplant assessment), different types of transplantation, in which that degree of the iron overload before and aft transplantation is related to the occurrence of HC.Results The results showed that the incidence of HC after transplantation was 27.63%.The median time for the occurrence of HC is 21d, and the duration is 11d.Only one cases were early onset HC (EOHC), and the other 41 were delayed HC (LOHC).The incidence rate of 4 years of age or older children with HC (33.70%) is higher than the age < 4 years old children (16.67%).The difference was statistically significant (P = 0.021).Conclusion Iron overload may have an impact on the occurrence of HC.As the level of SF increased, the incidence of HC increased significantly.iron overload may have an effect on HC occurrence.With the increase of SF, the incidence of HC increased significantly, especially when SF was greater than 7969.84.Children younger than 4 years of age were more likely to deelop HC after transplantation.
Appropriate fluoroscopic angle intraoperation of C-arm X-ray for each curved surface of femoral neck wall: a cadaveric study
Authors: Zhu QiuLiang , Yu Xiang-ping , Ma Jun , Lin Fang , Chen Yun-Yun , Ruan Wen-Bin
Published: April 2023

Objective To detect the appropriate fluoroscopic angle of intraoperative C-arm X-ray based on precise femoral neck anatomy.
Methods The femoral neck was divided into the anterior, posterosuperior and posteroinferior surfaces. These surfaces and the coronal plane of the femur formed anterior surface coronal angle (ACA), posterosuperior surface coronal angle (PSCA) and posteroinferior surface coronal angle (PICA), respectively. The three angles of 32 dried femoral specimens were measured. The femoral neck wall attached with steel wire wind aluminum foil model and three Kirschner wires perforating femoral neck wall model were prepared. The C-arm was rotated every 5° to complete the 0° -180 ° fluoroscopy of each curved surface. 111 frames of images were obtained for each femoral specimen. The appropriate fluoroscopic angle of each surface was obtained, and the fluoroscopic images characteristics of Kirschner wire penetrating the femoral neck cortex on three appropriate fluoroscopic angles and the anteroposterior and lateral fluoroscopy were observed.
Results The femoral neck is irregularly cylindrical with the anterior surface is longer than the posteroinferior surface, and the posterosuperior surface is the shortest. The measurement data of ACA, PSCA and PICA were (31±4.589)°, (67.813±5.052)° and (168.688±3.206)°, respectively. The appropriate fluoroscopic angle of the anterior, posterosuperior and posteroinferior surface of the steel wire aluminum foil model were (30.781±5.464)°, (67.969±3.721)°, (167.813±4.319)°, respectively. And there was no significant difference with the measurement data of the corresponding surface coronal angles, P > 0.05. The model of wire penetrating the femoral neck wall showed that the Kirschner wire penetrating the femoral neck could not be fully exposed in the traditional anteroposterior and lateral view films. Increasing the appropriate fluoroscopic angle of 30°, 70° and 170° could clearly find the Kirschner wire penetrating the cortex.
Conclusion Traditional anteroposterior and lateral fluoroscopy cannot accurately show the true structure of femoral neck. Additional 30°, 70° and 170° fluoroscopy can accurately observe the fracture reduction quality of the anterior surface, posterosuperior surface and posteroinferior surface of the femoral neck and the damage to the corresponding cortical bone caused by internal fixation.
Level of evidence: level II
Remote Animal Experiments of "Tumai" Surgical Robot Based on 5G Technology
Authors: Hu Ming , Ma Shixun , Ma Yuntao , Jing WuTang , Deng Yuan , Gong Shiyi , Wang Xiaopeng , Zhang Leisheng , Zhang Min , Cai Hui
Published: April 2023

Objective The remote robotic surgery based on 5G technology will be the future trend. To explore the feasibility, safety and stability of the domestic "Tumai" surgical robot in remote animal experiments under a 5G network environment.Methods The domestic "Tumai" surgical robot was used to perform remote cholecystectomy on experimental pigs in the animal operating room of Gansu Provincial Hospital from six different locations under a 5G network environment. The network rate, network delay, debugging time, loading time, operation time, blood loss, adverse events and intraoperative complications were recorded during the experiment. SPSS 25.0 statistical software was used, and the results were expressed as mean ± standard deviation.Results The experiment lasted 15 days, with a cumulative round-trip distance of > 3000 km, and the farthest surgical distance was about 780 km. Six remote animal cholecystectomies were completed. The average network delay was 55.16 ± 25.33ms; the average commissioning time was 65.17 ± 13.75 min; the average loading time was 5.12 ± 1.60 min; the average manipulation time of the robot was 22 ± 5.40 min; the average total operation time was 44 ± 4.23 min, the average blood loss was 5.83 ± 7.36 ml and one weak intraoperative network adverse. There was one intraoperative event and no intraoperative complications.Conclusions Using a domestic "Tumai" surgical robot system in the 5G wireless network environment could safely and stably perform remote animal surgery, which provides a theoretical foundation for the next step of remote clinical surgery.
Clinical observation and intervention analysis of patients with severe thrombocytopenia induced by tirofiban
Authors: Jing Rui , Guo Shi-jie , Li Yu-ming
Published: April 2023

Background There have been individual cases of successful treatment of tirofiban-induced thrombocytopenia by immunosuppressive agents (glucocorticoids and/or immunoglobulin), but no relevant case-control studies. This is a single-center, retrospective, case‒control study to observe the clinical characteristics of patients with severe thrombocytopenia induced by tirofiban and the intervention effect of immunosuppressive agents.Method 29 patients with severe thrombocytopenia induced by tirofiban during hospitalization in the Cardiology Department of our hospital from September 2008 to September 2021 were retrospectively observed. The patients were divided into 2 groups according to age. The elderly group included patients aged ≥ 60 years, with a total of 18 patients; the nonelderly group included patients aged༜60 years, with a total of 11 patients. Furthermore, the patients were divided into 2 groups according to whether they took immunosuppressive agents.The differences between the groups were compared between the lowest value of platelet levels, the time required for the platelet count to return to the normal range(≥100×109/L) after treatment, and the proportion of various bleeding events.Results There was no significant difference in the baseline value, the lowest value of platelet count, or the time required for the platelet count to return to the normal range between the elderly group and the nonelderly group (p > 0.05). In the elderly subgroup, there was no significant difference in the baseline value and the lowest value of platelet count between the treatment group and the control group (p > 0.05). However, the time required for the platelet count to return to the normal range in the treatment group was significantly shorter than that in the control group (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the various bleeding events between the elderly patients and nonelderly patients, or between the immunosuppressant treatment group and the control group in both elderly and nonelderly patients (p > 0.05).Conclusion immunosuppressive agents significantly shorten the time to normalization of the platelet count in elderly patients with tirofiban-induced severe thrombocytopenia; the bleeding risk in patients with tirofiban-induced severe thrombocytopenia does not increase with age.
Limitation of molecular twisting: Upgrading a donor-acceptor dye to drive H2 evolution
Authors: Zhu Kaijian , Rodríguez Ainoa Paradelo , Brands Maria , de Haas Titus , Buda Francesco , Reek Joost , Mul Guido , Huijser Annemarie
Published: April 2023

The performance of dye-sensitized photoelectrochemical (DSPEC) cells is currently hampered by the low efficiency of the photocathode, predominantly due to ineffective charge separation. To promote efficiency, donor-acceptor (D-A) dyes for photosensitization of the p-type semiconductor have been designed, spatially separating electrons and holes. We further improve on the state of the art by manipulating photoinduced twisting of a D-A P1 dye adsorbed onto NiO by co-adsorption of myristic acid, which has a carboxyl anchoring group and a long apolar alkyl chain. Time-resolved photoluminescence and Density Functional Theory studies show that twisting lowers the energy levels of the photoexcited D-A dye, while twisting is inhibited in case myristic acid is co-adsorbed on the NiO surface. The presence of myristic acid also favors light-induced charge separation, as apparent from femtosecond transient absorption, and increases the apparent photocurrent. Very interestingly, only in the presence of myristic acid light-induced H2 evolution is observed in aqueous media, despite the absence of a H2 evolution catalyst. We assign the H2 generation to a synergetic effect of inhibited twisting of the D-A dye radical anion increasing its electrochemical potential, combined with charge transfer and conversion of H+ on the hydroxylated NiO surface. Our work illustrates the importance of understanding effects of photoinduced intramolecular twisting and demonstrates that control thereof offers a simple design approach for efficient solar fuel devices.
Adult-onset Transient Pseudohypoaldosteronism Secondary to Ureteral Cancer: A Case Report
Authors: Yamamoto Mari , Sakamoto Fumitoshi , Ikai Hiroki , Fujita Yoshiro
Published: April 2023

Background:Pseudohypoaldosteronism (PHA) is a disorder in which patients show resistance to aldosterone, and exhibit aldosterone deficiency-like symptoms despite excessive secretion of aldosterone hormone from the adrenal gland. Secondary PHA (described here as transient PHA), which is characterized by transient aldosterone resistance secondary to other conditions, is usually an infantile disease. We report a rare case of adult-onset transient PHA (TPHA).
Case presentation:
A 70-year-old man admitted to our hospital, presented with renal failure of unknown cause with hypotension. Normal anion gap (AG) metabolic acidosis with hyperkalemia, an electrolyte abnormality, was also observed. A computed tomography (CT) scan showed bilateral ureteral dilatation and hydronephrosis. Blood renin level was found to be 70.5 ng/mL/h (normal: 2.5–21.4 ng/mL/h) and aldosterone level was 678.2 pg/mL (normal: 36–240 pg/mL). Abnormally high levels of aldosterone suggested aldosterone resistance. Based on the above history, a diagnosis of TPHA was made. Bilateral stenting was performed to improve the hydronephrosis, and the symptoms associated with TPHA resolved immediately after the obstruction was released. Bilateral ureteral carcinoma was found to be the cause of hydronephrosis.
Conclusions: Though TPHA is predominantly a pediatric disease, our study shows TPHA can also occur in adults if there is a decrease in the filtration rate in the ureter with concomitant chronic inflammation. Aldosterone resistance and electrolyte abnormalities were quickly resolved as soon as the obstruction was released in the present case. This is the first report to show the changes in the hormone (renin and aldosterone) levels before and after lifting the aldosterone resistance through the release of ureteral obstruction. Thus, in cases of normal AG metabolic acidosis with hyperkalemia, pseudohypoaldosteronism should be considered during differential diagnosis, in addition, to type Ⅳ renal tubular acidosis.
Structures of LIG1 active site mutants reveal the importance of DNA end rigidity for mismatch discrimination
Authors: Gulkis Mitchell , Tang Qun , Petrides Matthew , CAGLAYAN MELIKE
Published: April 2023

ATP-dependent DNA ligases catalyze phosphodiester bond formation in the conserved three-step chemical reaction of nick sealing. Human DNA ligase I (LIG1) finalizes almost all DNA repair pathways following DNA polymerase-mediated nucleotide insertion. We previously reported that LIG1 discriminates mismatches depending on the architecture of the 3'-terminus at a nick, however the contribution of conserved active site residues to faithful ligation remains unknown. Here, we comprehensively dissect the nick DNA substrate specificity of LIG1 active site mutants carrying Ala(A) and Leu(L) substitutions at Phe(F)635 and Phe(F)F872 residues and show completely abolished ligation of nick DNA substrates with all 12 non-canonical mismatches. LIG1EE/AA structures of F635A and F872A mutants in complex with nick DNA containing A:C and G:T mismatches demonstrate the importance of DNA end rigidity, as well as uncover a shift in a flexible loop near 5'-end of the nick, which causes an increased barrier to adenylate transfer from LIG1 to the 5'-end of the nick. Furthermore, LIG1EE/AA/8oxoG:A structures of both mutants demonstrated that F635 and F872 play critical roles during steps 1 or 2 of the ligation reaction depending on the position of the active site residue near the DNA ends. Overall, our study contributes towards a better understanding of the substrate discrimination mechanism of LIG1 against mutagenic repair intermediates with mismatched or damaged ends and reveals the importance of conserved ligase active site residues to maintain ligation fidelity.
Ichthyofauna of Delice (Kizilirmak) River
Authors: GÜL Göktuğ , ATASAĞUN Sibel
Published: April 2023

This study aimed to determine fish species in the Delice River, one of the main tributaries of the Kizilirmak River. The study was conducted at 22 stations between March 2019 and February 2020seasonally. An electrofisher device was used for fishing. The standard lengths of samples were measured in the field, a maximum of 40 samples of the species with a large number of individuals were selected and brought to the laboratory to determine morphometric and meristic characteristics and then other individuals were released back into the water. Sixteen species belonging to 9 families were found in Delice River; Cyprinidae (3) Barbus tauricus, Capoeta sieboldii, Capoeta tinca; Leuciscidae (4) Alburnoides freyhofi, Alburnus escherichii, Chondrostoma angorense, Squalius cephalus; Gobionidae (1) Pseudorasbora parva; Acheilognathidae (1) Rhodeus amarus; Cobitidae (1) Cobitis simplicispina; Nemacheilidae (3) Oxynoemachelius angorae, Oxynoemachelius brandtii, and Seminemacheilus lendlii; Aphaniidae (1) Anatolichthys marassantensis; Poeciliidae (1) Gambussia holbrooki, and Salmonidae (1) Onchorhynchus mykiss were identified. Nine endemic and two invasive species were identified in Delice River and its tributaries. It was determined that it would be beneficial to continue to monitoring studies for the future of the identified species.
The hallmarks of a tradeoff in transcriptomes that balances stress and growth functions
Authors: Dalldorf Christopher , Rychel Kevin , Szubin Richard , Hefner Ying , Patel Arjun , Zielinski Daniel , Palsson Bernhard
Published: April 2023

Fit phenotypes are achieved through optimal transcriptomic allocation. Here, we performed a high-resolution, multi-scale study of the transcriptomic tradeoff between two key fitness phenotypes, stress response (fear) and growth (greed), in Escherichia coli. We introduced twelve RNA polymerase (RNAP) mutations commonly acquired during adaptive laboratory evolution (ALE) and found that single mutations resulted in large shifts in the fear vs. greed tradeoff, likely through destabilizing the rpoB-rpoC interface. RpoS and GAD regulons drive the fear response while ribosomal proteins and the ppGpp regulon underlie greed. Growth rate selection pressure during ALE results in endpoint strains that often have RNAP mutations, with synergistic mutations reflective of particular conditions. A phylogenetic analysis found the tradeoff in numerous bacteria species. The results suggest that the fear vs. greed tradeoff represents a general principle of transcriptome allocation in bacteria where small genetic changes can result in large phenotypic adaptations to growth conditions.
Comparing the Effects of Jigsaw Cooperative Learning and Lecture on Health students' knowledge, performance, and satisfaction
Authors: Darabi Fatemeh , Karimian Zahra , Rohban Alireza
Published: April 2023

Background Jigsaw is a cooperative and student-centered learning method, emphasizing the constructive interactions of students and their active engagement in learning. The present research was conducted to compare the effects of two educational methods of traditional lecture and jigsaw cooperative learning (JCL) on the knowledge, performance, and satisfaction of students.
Methods This quasi-experimental study was done on 50 public health students with bachelor’s degrees, who had been chosen through available sampling. Eight educational sessions related to educational technology course were chosen for implementation of the study. One group of students received the education through the JCL, and the other through the lecture. The extent of performance and satisfaction of students with the educational course was measured through two researcher-made 80 and 18-item questionnaires after receiving the training. Data were analyzed through SPSS 23.0 software and P<05 was considered statistically significant.
Results The mean score of knowledge in the pre-test stage in the jigsaw and lecture groups was 11.40 and 10.56, respectively, while these values in the post-test stage significantly increased in the jigsaw group compared to their lecture counterpart (16.68 vs. 10.76) (P<0.0001). There was a significant difference between the two groups regarding the score of poster and pamphlet preparation, role-playing, and slide preparation in all subscales (P<0.0001). The mean score of satisfaction with the course was higher in the jigsaw group in all subscales except for motivation (P=0.17) and problem-solving (P=0.43), compared to the lecture group (P<0.0001).
Conclusions The results obtained from this research indicated that the JCL method, by engaging students in the teaching-learning process, could cause enhanced knowledge, performance, and satisfaction of the learner, helping them deal with their courses with greater interest. Thus, trainers and teachers should get familiar with this method and be encouraged to use it, since eventually use of this method leads to enhanced efficiency and quality of education in educational centers.
Implications of an antagonist age for maritime trade and its impacts on energy demand
Authors: Franz Sebastian , Kramel Diogo , Strømman Anders , Bramstoft Rasmus , Muri Helene , Münster Marie
Published: April 2023

In a time where high geopolitical tensions are affecting global trade patterns, we step back and challenge the common assumptions of low rivalry and perfect markets among nations in energy system modeling. We developed a gravity demand model to evaluate how antagonism, characterized by reduced globalization and rivalrous nation-to-nation relationships, impacts maritime trade patterns and energy demand levels needed to support the movement of trade goods. Our model enables maritime trade and energy demand projections to vary with socioeconomic and geopolitical futures. The results show that increasing antagonism between nations leads to less energy-efficient routes and longer distances to cover. On average, these impacts increase annual maritime fuel demands by 13% or 1,500PJ (110 MtonCO2eq in today's fuel mix). Thus, geopolitical tension exacerbates maritime climate mitigation challenges and therefore highlights the need to carefully shape this hard-to-abate sector's future to not increase emissions further.
RBM39 is a potential prognostic biomarker associated with immune infiltrates in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Cui Fangfang , Wang Wenling , Zhuang Chunbo , Wang Pei
Published: April 2023

RNA-binding motif protein 39 (RBM39) is a well-studied RNA-binding protein that has been reported to be associated with the process of tumorigenesis and the development of numerous cancers. However, its role in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains unclear. This study aimed to understand the prognostic value of RBM39 in HCC by investigating the relationship between RBM39 expression and clinicopathological features. The cancer genome atlas (TCGA) and gene expression omnibus (GEO) databases were used to analyze the differential expression of RBM39 between normal tissues and that of HCC. Kaplan–Meier and COX regression models were used to analyze the correlation between RBM39 expression and survival rate in the case of HCC. Moreover, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) was performed to identify key pathways associated with RBM39. The correlation of RBM39 with tumor immune infiltration was evaluated by single sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) using TCGA data. The data generated by bioinformatic approach were further validated using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry. The CCK8 and Wound healing assays were performed to investigate the biological function of RBM39 in HCC cells. Our results indicated that there was a significant upregulation of RBM39 in HCC as compared to that of normal tissues. High RBM39 expression was significantly associated with advanced T-stage, histological grade, and pathological stage, and predicted poor overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DSS), and progression-free interval (PFI) in HCC patients. Multivariate Cox analysis further confirmed that the upregulation of RBM39 expression was an independent prognostic factor for OS in HCC. Moreover, GSEA enrichment analysis indicated that RBM39 was functionally involved in pathways associated with cell cycle, DNA replication, P53, and primary immunodeficiency. RBM39 expression was associated with the infiltrating levels of Th2 cells and DC cells. Knockdown of RBM39 significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of HCC cells. Altogether, these findings suggest an important role of RBM39 in the development, diagnosis, and prognosis of HCC.