bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transforming Endometriosis Management: Insights from a Six-Year Application of the 4P Approach
Authors: Lin Shunhe , Qi Wei , Zhang Jinna , Liu Chaobin , Xie Xi , Wang Zhenna , Guo Yuyan
Published: October 2024

Objective To systematically evaluate the effectiveness of the 4P management model (Professionalized management, Personalized care, Pluralistic strategies, and Participatory involvement) in the specialty management of endometriosis, and to explore its impact on disease management effectiveness. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted using data collected from January 2018 to December 2023, encompassing outpatient and inpatient workload statistics, as well as patient satisfaction surveys. A total of 636 patients who attended the endometriosis specialty clinic between January 2020 and December 2021 were selected as the observation group, while 613 patients from the same period served as the control group. The observation group received standard care integrated with the 4P management approach. In contrast, the control group was treated with traditional standard care alone. Key study indicators included patient follow-up adherence, quality of life assessments, and evaluations of negative emotional status. Results The observation group demonstrated notable enhancements in follow-up adherence, a significant reduction in visual analogue scale/scores (VAS) for pain, and a marked decrease in negative emotional disturbances. Additionally, clinical workload, both outpatient and inpatient, saw considerable growth, with outpatient visits increasing from 574 cases to 2,546 cases and inpatient admissions rising from 432 cases to 997 cases. Patient satisfaction also improved substantially, with outpatient satisfaction rates climbing from 93.2–97.8% and inpatient satisfaction rates growing from 91.8–98.6%. Conclusion The implementation of the 4P management model significantly enhanced patient follow-up adherence, improved quality of life and patient satisfaction, and reduced negative emotional disturbances. This comprehensive approach to managing endometriosis highlights its substantial potential in optimizing specialized care, ensuring consistent and high-quality outcomes. The 4P model offers valuable insights and practical strategies for healthcare institutions seeking to implement innovative and patient-centered management practices in the treatment of endometriosis.
High-order harmonic generation from two-dimensional materials subjected to intense laser fields
Authors: Koushki Azizmorad
Published: October 2024

Based on the real-time time-dependent density functional theory, we theoretically investigate the influence of bandgap on the high-order harmonic generation (HHG) from monolayer hexagonal two-dimensional (2D) solids: Gallium Phosphide (GaP), Graphene, Borophene (graphene-like), and Boron nitride (h-BN) under a few-cycle linearly- and/or single circularly-polarized laser pulse. Our results show that interband currents are prominently larger in the zigzag (ZZ) direction in comparison with the armchair (AC) direction, when the laser field is polarized along the ZZ-direction. Accordingly, the high-order harmonics can be produced more efficiently along the ZZ-direction than that of the AC-direction. We exhibit that single-layer 2D materials can generate bulk-like high-order harmonics when they are driven by an in-plane polarized laser field, and atomic-like harmonics when driven by an out-of-plane polarized laser field. Our findings indicate that due to the difference in the effective mass of carriers along AC- and ZZ-directions, the high-order harmonics spectra are different in both directions. In addition, the results illustrate that the dependence of HHG intensity changes according to the polarization of the laser electric field. The bandgap significantly affects the HHG, most importantly through ultrafast modification of the interband polarization of the system. Finally, based on the present study, borophene and GaP have outstanding potential for future utilization in extreme-ultraviolet, efficient table-top HHG sources, and as an ultrafast optical tool to provide possibilities for imaging solid structures.
CFD investigations of a shape-memory polymer foam-based endovascular embolization device for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Cabaniss Tanner , Bodlak Ryan , Liu Yingtao , Colby Geoffrey , Lee Hyowon , Bohnstedt Bradley , Garziera Rinaldo , Holzapfel Gerhard , Lee Chung-Hao
Published: October 2024

The hemodynamic and convective heat transfer effects of a patient-specific endovascular therapeutic agent based on shape memory polymer foam (SMPf) are evaluated using computational fluid dynamics studies for six patient-specific aneurysm geometries. The SMPf device is modeled as a continuous porous medium with full expansion for the flow studies and with various degrees of expansion for the heat transfer studies. The flow simulation parameters were qualitatively validated based on the existing literature. Further, a mesh independence study was conducted to verify an optimal cell size and reduce the computational costs. For convective heat transfer, a worst-case scenario is evaluated where the minimum volumetric flow rate is applied alongside the zero-flux boundary conditions. In the flow simulations, we found a reduction of the average intra-aneurysmal flow of > 85% and a reduction of the maximum intra-aneurysmal flow of > 45% for all presented geometries. These findings were compared with the literature on numerical simulations of hemodynamic and heat transfer of SMPf devices. The results obtained from this study can serve as a guide for optimizing the design and development of patient-specific SMPf devices aimed at personalized endovascular embolization of intracranial aneurysms.
Associations between sleep disturbance, inflammatory markers, and high blood pressure: National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2018
Authors: lin dajun , sun lisha , yuan jun , yang yunjiao , zhou qian , pan junhua , chen qiu
Published: October 2024

Objective Sleep disturbance leads to an active inflammatory response in the body, and the development of hypertension is also associated with inflammation; is there a definite association between the three?Methods We examined the pairwise relationships between SII (Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index), sleep disorders, and hypertension in an ethnically diverse sample (n = 22573) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).On successfully verifying its two-by-two pair correlation, Exploring the direct intensity of sleep disorders leading to hypertension, Strength of SII as a Mediating Effect of Sleep Disorders, and Hypertension.Results The study comprised 48.69% males and 51.31% females, with an average age of 48.01(18.51) years and an average BMI of 28.88 kg/m².Hypertension prevalence was 33.75% (n = 3,710) among males and 35.09% (n = 4,064) among females. Sleep disturbance affected 22.06% (n = 2,425) of males and 29.17% (n = 3,378) of females. Participants were categorized by hypertension and sleep disturbance status. Most did not use sleep medications, but higher usage was seen in those with both conditions. Smoking and alcohol consumption rates were notably higher among individuals with hypertension and sleep disturbance. Educational attainment was slightly lower among those with hypertension. Mexican Americans showed the lowest comorbidity of these conditions compared to non-Hispanic whites and Other Hispanics. In the correlation analysis, sleep disturbance was associated with an 81% increased risk of hypertension (OR: 1.81, 95% CI: 1.69–1.95, P = 0.001). Sleep disturbance was positively correlated with an increase in the Systemic Inflammation Index (SII) (β: 16.34, 95% CI: 4.62–28.06, p = 0.006). SII was associated with hypertension (OR: 1.0002, 95% CI: 1.0001–1.0003, P = 0.001). SII mediated 0.23% (95% CI: 0.13%-0.37%, P = 0.001) of the effect between sleep disturbance and hypertension.
Volumetric changes of porcine collagen matrix and free gingival grafts for soft-tissue grafting to increase the width of keratinized tissue around dental implants: A retrospective clinical study
Authors: Ramanauskaite Ausra , Müller Katharina Melissa , Schliephake Carla , Obreja Karina , Begic Amira , Dahmer Iulia , Parvini Puria , Schwarz Frank
Published: October 2024

Aim
The present study aimed at comparing three-dimensional changes of a porcine derived collagen matrix (CM) and free gingival grafts (FGG) for increasing keratinized tissue (KT) at dental implants over a 24-month follow-up period.
Materials and Methods
This retrospective study enrolled 25 patients exhibiting 41 implants with deficient KT width (i.e., < 2mm) at the vestibular aspect who underwent soft tissue augmentation using either CM (11 patients/15 implants) or FGG (14 patients/26 implants). The primary outcome was defined as tissue thickness change (mm) at treated implant sites between 1- (S0), 12- (S1), and 24-months (S2). Secondary outcome was the changes of KT width over a 24-month follow-up period.
Results
Dimensional analyses from S0 to S1 and from S0 to S2 revealed a mean decrease in tissue thickness of -0.05 ± 0.35 mm and − 0.31 ± 0.41 mm in the CM group, and − 0.23 ± 0.38 mm and − 0.22 ± 0.81 mm in the FGG group, with no significant differences found between the groups (patient-level analysis; S0-S1: p = 0.14, S0-S2: p = 0.58, Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney U test). Within S1 and S2, the CM and FGG groups displayed comparable tissue thickness reduction (patient-level analysis; CM: -0.32 ± 0.53 mm, FGG: -0.02 ± 0.21 mm; p = 0.07). The FGG group exhibited a significantly greater KT gain after 12- and 24-months compared to the CM group (patient-level analysis: 12-months CM: 1.52 ± 1.23 mm, FGG: 4.22 ± 1.78 mm; p < 0.001; 24-months CM: 1.50 ± 1.14 mm, FGG: 4.04 ± 1.65 mm; p < 0.001, Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney U test).
Conclusions
CM and FGG were associated with comparable three-dimensional thickness changes over a period of 24 months. A significantly wider KT band could be established in the FGG group.
Cognitive Absorption Independent Cortical Activities and Connectivities Associated with Real-World Reading
Authors: Boasen Jared , Giroux Felix , Duchesneau Marie-Odile , Roy Xavier , Sénécal Sylvain , Léger Pierre-Majorique
Published: October 2024

Characterizing brain activities underlying text reading in an ecologically valid context and identifying whether aspects of these activities are independent of one’s state of cognitive absorption (CA) are important yet unexplored lines of research in cognitive neuroscience. This study investigated the oculometric behavior and electroencephalographic (EEG) activities associated with text reading in 25 human subjects while they viewed a live theatrical stage performance, and further assessed relationships with self-perceived CA. Behaviorally, subjects anticipated the appearance of text, and regarded it in a manner that was independent of CA. Neurophysiologically, text presence/absence was differentiated primarily by EEG theta activities and beta connectivities in or between visuospatial processing areas. Importantly, text presence-associated increases in theta activity in the frontal eye field and beta connectivity between the precuneus and the primary visual cortex were independent of CA, suggesting underlying roles in the automaticity of text reading behaviors.
Down-regulation of EAAT-2 impairs chronic neuropathic pain via increasing of plasma glutamate after herpes zoster infection
Authors: Lu Li-Na , Mei LI-Hong , Li Xu-Shuo , Zhang Ji-Hong , Yang Gao
Published: October 2024

Chronic neuropathic pain (CNP) is a debilitating complication of herpes zoster (HZ) with significant impact on quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the association between excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT-2) expression and plasma glutamate concentrations with CNP in HZ patients. This study was conducted with patients diagnosed with HZ. Participants were divided into two groups: CNP (n=51) and acute pain (ACP, n=51). Pain severity was assessed using the Numerical Rating Scale. Blood samples were collected for genotype analysis, RNA and protein extraction, and plasma glutamate measurement. EAAT-2 DNA genotyping was analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR); EAAT-2 mRNA expression was analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR; EAAT-2 protein and glutamate levels were analyzed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The EAAT-2 DNA showed no significant difference in CNP and ACP patients. CNP patients exhibited lower EAAT-2 mRNA and protein levels compared to ACP patients. Plasma glutamate levels were significantly elevated in the CNP group. A positive correlation was observed between protein expression and plasma glutamate levels in the CNP group. Decreased EAAT-2 mRNA and protein expression and elevated plasma glutamate levels played a significant role in the development and maintenance of CNP. These findings offer valuable insights into the pathophysiology of CNP after HZ infection and highlight the potential of targeting EAAT-2 for developing novel therapeutic strategies for pain management.
Geomagnetic observatories can determine the directions to earthquake epicenters
Authors: Mendakulov Zhassulan , Vassilyev Ivan , Saveliev Vladimir , Zhumabayev Beibit
Published: October 2024

Analysis of the Earth's magnetic field components fluctuations, recorded at the magnetic observatory of the Institute of Ionosphere (Almaty, Kazakhstan) during the earthquakes of 22.01.2004 and 04.03.2024 showed that these fluctuations were not associated with acoustic-gravitational waves. Cause of the variations turned out to be mechanical vibrations of the foundation of magnetic observatory’s pavilion. Mathematical apparatus was proposed and equations were derived linking the variations of the magnetic field components with the angles of inclination of the magnetic field sensors and the bearing to the epicenter of the earthquake. Calculations of azimuths of earthquake epicenters were performed based on data from a network of seismic stations, and on measured variations of the magnetic field components of the Almaty magnetic observatory. The results obtained showed a good match, which makes it possible to use data from magnetic observatories with per-second registration of magnetic field components to observe seismic events.
Deciphering the role of cuproptosis in the development of intimal hyperplasia in rat carotid arteries using single-cell analysis and machine-learning techniques
Authors: He Miao , Chen Hui , Liu Zhengli , Zhao Boxiang , He Xu , Mao Qiujin , Gu Jianping , Kong Jie
Published: October 2024

Objective: This study aims to explore the regulatory role of cuproptosis in carotid intimal hyperplasia (IH), providing new insights into its pathophysiological mechanisms and potential diagnostic and therapeutic strategies. Methods: We downloaded single-cell sequencing and bulk transcriptome data from the GEO database to screen for copper-growth-associated genes (CAGs) using machine-learning algorithms, including Random Forest and Support Vector Machine. After identifying relevant genes, we verified CAGs expression in IH and control groups using a rat model of carotid balloon strain. We analyzed the immune infiltration characteristics of carotid intimal hyperplasia and used electron microscopy to observe mitochondrial structural changes in cuproptosis. Additionally, we performed subgroup analyses of carotid balloon strains. The cuproptosis activity of VSMCs was explored in a single-cell dataset. Immunohistochemistry was applied to validate the expression of CAGs. Results: By means of machine learning algorithms, we identified several genes, including Pdhx and Fdx1, as novel therapeutic targets for carotid intimal hyperplasia. Meanwhile, immunohistochemistry results observed decreased expression of Pdhx and Fdx1 in the Neointimal hyperplasia(Neo) group. Immunohistochemical results showed a difference in cellular infiltration between Dendritic cells resting and Mast cells resting. By calculating cuproptosis activity in vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs), we found increased cuproptosis activity in normal vascular smooth muscle cells which was also observed in the electron microscopy. Microscopy revealed less mitochondrial swelling characteristic of cuproptosis in Neo group. Conclusion: The CAGs identified may regulate intimal hyperplasia in rat carotid arteries by modulating cuproptosis and represent potential targets for treatment.
Exploring the microbiomes of camel ticks to infer vector competence: Insights from tissue level symbiont-pathogen relationships
Authors: Khogali Rua , Bastos Armanda , Getange Dennis , Bargul Joel L. , Kalayou Shewit , Ongeso Nehemiah , Verhoeven Joost Theo Petra , Kabii James , Ngiela John , Masiga Daniel , Villinger Jandouwe
Published: October 2024

Background
Ticks are blood-feeding ectoparasites that harbor diverse pathogens and endosymbionts. Their microbial communities vary based on tick species, stage, sex, geographical location, surrounding environment, and tissue type. Understanding tick microbiota at the tissue level is crucial for unraveling how microbiomes are distributed in tick tissues and influence pathogen transmission. We used 16S rRNA gene sequencing to analyze tissue-specific bacterial compositions (hemolymph, saliva, salivary glands, and midgut) of Amblyomma gemma, Rhipicephalus pulchellus, Hyalomma dromedarii, and Hyalomma rufipes ticks collected from camels in Marsabit County, northern Kenya.
Results
The V1-V2 region of the 16S rRNA gene effectively differentiated Rickettsia africae and Rickettsia aeschlimannii from other rickettsial species, as well as Coxiella endosymbionts from Coxiella burnetii. In contrast, the V3-V4 region sequences of these species could not be clearly distinguished. Coxiella endosymbionts were most common in Am. gemma and Rh. pulchellus, while Francisella endosymbionts predominated in Hyalomma ticks; both were primarily localized in the salivary glands. High abundances of Coxiella endosymbionts, as well as Pseudomonas, were associated with the absence or low abundance of Rickettsia pathogens in both Am. gemma and Rh. pulchellus, suggesting competitive interactions between these microbes. Additionally, Proteus mirabilis, an opportunistic pathogen of the urinary tract in humans, was found predominantly in Hyalomma ticks, except for the salivary glands, which were most abundant with Francisella endosymbionts. Furthermore, we detected the Acinetobacter, Pseudomonas, and Corynebacterium genera in all the tick tissues, supporting the hypothesis that these bacteria might circulate between camel blood and ticks. Saliva and hemolymph generally harbored more extracellular bacteria than the salivary glands and midgut.
Conclusions
This study provides a new approach to unravel tick-endosymbiont-pathogen interactions by examining the tissue localization of tick-borne pathogens and symbionts in Am. gemma, Rh. pulchellus, Hy. dromedarii, and Hy. rufipes from camels in northern Kenya. Our findings establish a baseline for developing an understanding of the functional capacities of symbionts and for designing symbiont-based control strategies.
Networking strategy of small hydropower micro network under weak communication conditions
Authors: Zhang Zifan , LIANG Zhanhong , TANG Yuan , CHEN Zhifeng , SHEN NA , WU Danlan
Published: October 2024

A microgrid with small hydropower as the main power source can absorb or transmit power to the main grid during grid-connected operation. When the microgrid is operating off-grid due to sudden reasons such as line faults, it is necessary to remove power sources or loads to maintain the frequency stability of the microgrid. Due to the difficulty of achieving high-quality communication in mountainous areas where small hydropower is concentrated, a common solution is to use high-frequency generation tripping or low-frequency load shedding without communication. This traditional solution has a poor control effect on the frequency of isolated microgrids. In response to this research situation, this article proposes a strategy of "centralized decision-making by the master station + local control by the substation" to determine the power sources and loads that need to be removed to achieve frequency stability during sudden off-grid operations of small hydropower microgrids under weak communication conditions. This article first theoretically analyzes the frequency change mechanism after the islanding of small hydropower microgrids, and proposes a strategy of "centralized decision-making by the master station + local control by the substation". The master station makes decisions on load shedding and generation tripping based on regional power flow data, and the substation controls locally based on local information combined with instructions from the master station. A mathematical model for decision-making problems is established, and a heuristic algorithm is used to obtain the optimal solution. To verify the effectiveness of the strategy, this article establishes a simulation model of small hydropower microgrids based on an electromagnetic transient simulation platform and compares traditional strategies with those proposed in this article. The results show that the proposed load-shedding scheme can achieve fast and accurate removal of remaining unit capacity and maintain frequency stability during sudden off-grid operations of small hydropower microgrids.
Applying Machine Learning Techniques to Predict Optimal Capacitor Locations in Distribution Power Grids
Authors: Moussa Sahar
Published: October 2024

This research aims at investigating how Machine Learning (ML) can help decision makers in solving the problem of optimal capacitor allocation for transmission loss minimization in power systems. ML is a branch of Artificial Intelligence (AI) which can predict and draw inference from recognized patterns in data. The data used in this study, to train the ML models, inherent the structure of power grids. Four regressive predictive models are used and compared. The suggested investigation assesses the prediction performance compared to the actual values through comparing each predicted busbar rank to its actual rank. Busbar rank is defined based on the power loss reduction achieved by capacitor connection to this busbar. The busbar giving maximum loss reduction is ranked as 1. By ranking the busbars, the control system of the grid can select the most appropriate group of buses whose capacitors should be switched on for a certain loading condition. The results show that ML models can reach a ranking accuracy that exceeds 80%. Hence, it is shown through this research that ML techniques can help in reducing the search space of the optimal capacitor allocation problem.
A comparison of genomically enhanced breeding values predicted by different single-step approaches
Authors: Słomian Dawid , Szyda Joanna
Published: October 2024

Many countries are currently adopting the single-step model for national genetic evaluations of dairy cattle. The two most widely applied statistical formulations of the single-step model are Genomic Best Linear Unbiased Prediction (G-BLUP) and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism BLUP (SNP-BLUP), with the main difference being the handling of additive genetic covariance between individuals with genotypes. Using solvers available in the MiXBLUP software, our study aimed to compare both models regarding the quality of Genomically Enhanced Breeding Value (GEBV) prediction, bull rankings, and computational efficiency (memory consumption and computational time). The results demonstrated no marked differences in the quality of GEBV prediction expressed by the metrics underlying the Interbull validation, except for the G-BLUP, APY-based solvers with 3,000 core bulls. However, the ranking of the top 50 bulls differed between models, which has implications for the breeding industry and selection, since the top-ranking bulls are typically the most widely used. 39 and 31 of the top 50 bulls were common to all models for stature and foot angle, respectively. In terms of computational time, SNP-BLUP and G-BLUP with APY solver using 3,000 bulls were the fastest, the GT G-BLUP solver was the slowest. The selection of core individuals for the APY solver was a crucial element that affected the prediction accuracy. Still, the use of the GT G-BLUP or the SNP-BLUP solver can circumvent this issue since no selection of core individuals is required.
Hydraulic sizing of a drip irrigation system coupled with the technological quality test of drippers
Authors: DJIBO Aboubacar YERIMA BAKO , YAHAYA Abdou , YADJI Guero
Published: October 2024

This article covers a methodology for hydraulic sizing of a drip irrigation system using irrigation water supply tanks. After a general description of the different components of the pressure irrigation network which is here drip, the theory of hydraulic sizing and the technological quality test of the drippers are very detailed in order to assess the performance of the latter. The adequate design of localized irrigation networks must necessarily be based on a good understanding of hydraulic principles so as to be able to correctly size the different components of the irrigation system. The trial on the technological quality test of drippers in a drip irrigation system consisted of testing these emitters using an experimental device. To this end, 3 reservoirs containing drinking water from the NDE were used to supply 3 drip irrigation networks. Measurements of flow rates and volumes made at the level of drippers, booms, boom holders and networks made it possible to verify the quality of the drippers used and the hydraulic performance of the pressure irrigation system. Data relating to these measures were collected and analyzed. It appears from this study that the corresponding pressures at different heights in the tanks are low and vary by 0.11bar and 0.15bar and that the pressure is a function of height. As for the flow rates and volumes of water measured at the drippers, valves, ramps, ramp holders and networks, they are hydraulically the same. In other words, they are statistically identical but in absolute value the flow rate of valve 1 is slightly higher than flow rates 2 and 3. Finally, regarding the technological quality test of the drippers, the flow rate variation coefficients obtained during this test are 0.052; 0.055; 0.056; 0.061 and 0.052 respectively at the water heights in the tank h1, h2, h3, h4 and h5. Then the different uniformity coefficients obtained at these heights are respectively 93.73; 94.26; 94.45; 95.02 and 94.77%. These values ​​above 90% reveal excellent distribution of irrigation water to the plot. In conclusion, it is possible to carry out localized irrigation with few materials and therefore inexpensively. However, high establishment costs can constitute a constraint to the adoption of the technology. This is why it was recommended to make agricultural subsidies and credits available to producers to enable the large-scale dissemination of the drip irrigation system.
Association between vitamin A intake and depression: A cross-sectional study of NHANES from 2005 to 2020 and Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Zhao Dehua , Long Xiaoqing , Wang Jisheng
Published: October 2024

Background: The association of vitamin A intake with depression remains unclear. This study combined observational research and Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the relationship between vitamin A intake and depression.
Methods: First, we performed a cross-sectional study utilizing the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) data from 2005 to 2020. Weighted multivariable logistic regressions and restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression were applied to explore the association between vitamin A intake and depression. We also conducted stratified and sensitivity analyses to assess the robustness of the results. Second, we conducted a MR analysis to assess the causal association between vitamin A and depression risk using the publicly available Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) database. The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was our primary method for MR analysis. In addition, we performed multiple sensitivity analyses to evaluate the reliability of the results, including Cochran’s Q test, MR-Egger intercept regression, MR-Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier (MR-PRESSO), and leave-one-out analysis.
Results: In the cross-sectional study, a total of 38,157 individuals were enrolled. The vitamin A intake was negatively associated with depression after adjusting for all covariates (OR=0.92, 95%CI: 0.88-0.97, P=0.001). Similar inverse associations were observed when vitamin A intake was converted into categorical variables. The RCS analysis found an L-shaped nonlinear relationship between dietary vitamin A intake and depression (P for non-linearity=0.010) after adjusting for all covariates. Vitamin A consumption was inversely associated with depression (OR=0.999, 95% CI: 0.999-1.000, P=0.002) for intakes below 492.00 μg. In contrast, no association was found between dietary vitamin A intake and depression (P=0.656) for intakes of 492.00 μg or higher. Furthermore, The inverse relationship between vitamin A intake and depression remained robust in both stratified and sensitivity analyses. In the MR analysis, a total of 15 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified as instrumental variables (IVs). The IVW method found no significant causal relationship between vitamin A and the risk of depression (OR=0.39, 95%CI: 0.10-1.58, P=0.188). Similar results were found in MR-Egger method, weighted median method, simple mode method, and weighted mode method. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the reliability of these results.
Conclusions: The observational study found that vitamin A intake was inversely associated with depression, regardless of whether vitamin A was measured as a continuous or categorical variable. However, findings from the MR analysis did not indicate a causal relationship between vitamin A and depression risk.
Balancing agriculture and conservation in the Ramsar-listed Kole paddy wetlands: The bee diversity and role of non- crop vegetation amid pesticide use
Authors: Habeeb Rabeea , Ummer Muhammed Abdul Rafeeq Karuvally , Thayyullathil Jobiraj
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of pesticide use on bee diversity and the potential role of non-crop habitats in mitigating these effects in the Kole paddy wetlands, a Ramsar site in Kerala, South-West India. Bee populations were sampled over two years, in six pesticide treated and six non-treated control fields, along with adjacent bunds as non-crop habitats. A total of 173 bees representing 10 species across two families—Halictidae and Apidae—were collected. Species richness and Shannon diversity, were consistently lower in pesticide-treated fields compared to control fields. Non-Metric Multidimensional Scaling (NMDS) showed a distinct clustering of treated sites, indicating homogenized bee communities dominated by species such as Tetragonula sp. and Apis florea. In contrast, species like Halictus sp. were less common in treated fields. The bunds with dense vegetation, adjacent to treated fields showed a positive correlation with bee diversity, suggesting these areas act as refugia against pesticide exposure. Pearson correlation analysis revealed a significant positive relationship (r = 0.8389, p = 0.0369) between the diversity of treated fields and their adjacent non-crop habitats. Our findings signify the need for integrated pest management strategies that reduce pesticide use and promote the conservation of non-crop habitats, such as bunds to support pollinator populations, thereby ensuring the overall health and functioning of Kole paddy wetlands.
Consumption of sweetened beverages and symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress: an analysis of university students in the PADu-multicenter study
Authors: Vidigal Mariana Cassemira Aparecida , de Menezes-Júnior Luiz Antônio Alves , de Paula Waléria , Barbosa Bruna Carolina Rafael , Ferreira Lívia Garcia , Nobre Luciana Neri , de Freitas Eulilian Dias , Vidigal Fernanda de Carvalho , Cardoso Clareci Silva , Silva Luciana Saraiva da , Ferreira Aline Dayrell , Meireles Adriana Lúcia
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to assess the association between the frequency of consumption of sweetened beverages and symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress in university students. This is a cross-sectional study carried out in eight Federal Higher Education Institutions in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The outcomes were symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress assessed by the Depression Anxiety Stress Scale-21. The consumption of sweetened beverages was assessed by a question from the Brazilian telephone survey (VIGITEL) and analyzed using three approaches: a) dichotomous, regular (≥ 5 days a week) and irregular (≤ 4 days a week), b) weekly frequency, considering the reference category "almost never/never" and c) weekly frequency, considering as an ordinal variable (0 to 7 days a week). Multiple logistic regression was used to estimate the association between sweetened beverages and outcomes. Of the 8.650 students, 14.1% had regular consumption. Among the participants, 59.7% were classified as having anxiety symptoms, 63.0% depression and 57.5% stress. Regular consumption was associated with symptoms of anxiety (OR: 1.30; 95%CI: 1.13–1.49), depression (OR: 1.32; 95%CI: 1.14–1.51) and stress (OR: 1.41; 95%CI: 1.13–1.61). With regard to weekly frequency, a dose-response pattern was observed for symptoms of depression and stress. It was found that for every one and a half times a week that students consumed sweetened drinks, the chance of symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress increased by 1.12 (95%CI: 1.07–1.16); 1.10 (95%CI: 1.06–1.14) and 1.12 (95%CI: 1.08–1.17), respectively. Therefore, this study is important for the development of strategies aimed at autonomy in the choice of beverages. It also contributes to proposing preventive measures in mental health.
A Comprehensive Survey of Multimodal Large Language Models: Concept, Application and Safety
Authors: Liu Shuai , Pu Weilin , Xu Chongling , Huang Zishuo , Li Qian , Wang Hang , Lin Chenhao , Shen Chao
Published: October 2024

Recent advancements in MLLM, such as those exemplified by developments like GPT-4o, have positioned them as a significant focus within the research community. MLLMs leverage the general capabilities of Large Language Models (LLMs) to handle tasks across multiple modalities, including text, image, audio, and video. With their unique ability to understand and generate content, such as composing narratives from visual inputs, MLLMs are attracting substantial interest from both academia and industry. However, the great outburst of algorithms and techniques of MLLMs has led to the emergence of new types of architectures, applications and safety issues in MLLMs. We provide this more comprehensive survey aiming to document and analyze the latest advancements in MLLMs. First, we introduce the fundamental concepts of MLLMs, including the development history of multimodal algorithms, the architecture of MLLMs, and their evaluation and benchmarks. We then explore advanced techniques in MLLMs, such as Multimodal In-Context Learning, Multimodal Chain of Thought, and LLM-aided Visual Reasoning. Following this, we examine the safety aspects of MLLMs, focusing on security issues, potential attacks, and model safety assessments. Finally, we discuss the current challenges and identify potential areas for future research.
Calculating and analyzing the relationship between thermal conductivity and microstructure in rare-earth doped fluoride crystals
Authors: Liu Kexin , Jiang Dapeng , Bian Gang , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Zhonghan , Su Liangbi
Published: October 2024

Rare earth (RE) ion-doped fluoride crystals have shown great application potential in various fields, attracting the attention of many researchers. The abnormal thermal transformation behavior of RE ion-doped fluoride crystals leads to the singularity and weakness of their application fields. Here, the influence of different structural characteristics of RE ion-doped fluoride crystals on the variation of thermal conductivity is further analyzed using phonon scattering calculation. Firstly, based on the effect of the phonon scattering mechanism on the thermal conductivity of RE ion-doped fluoride, a comprehensive analysis examines the diverse factors that affect the abnormal thermal behavior of different doping types and fluoride crystals. The actual thermal conductivity characteristics are predicted to optimize the crystal performance in various application fields of RE ion-doped fluoride crystals. Next, the influence mechanism of mass and radius difference caused by RE ion doping structure on the thermal conductivity of RE ion-doped fluorides is deeply investigated. Ultimately, a theoretical foundation for behavior and influence of disorder crystals' thermal conductivity is established.
Leveraging ERC20 Crypto Tokens for Business Growth: Overcoming Regulatory Challenges and Market Monopolies
Authors: Wali Asad , Marium Aqsa
Published: October 2024

Private companies seeking to grow often face complex regulations that hinder their development or delay decision-making. These challenges stem from market monopolies that tend to absorb smaller entities. However, principles of free markets and democratic governance protect social justice and prevent the concentration of corrupting power. This article explores company-issued crypto assets as a promising growth avenue. It emphasizes the importance of carefully timing the introduction of crypto assets to the public, as this can significantly impact their success and value. The Ethereum-based ERC20 protocol is highlighted as a key standard for issuing crypto tokens. Ethereum, a decentralized blockchain platform, is advantageous for implementing complex business logic and smart contracts. Companies often issue tokens to raise capital through ICOs, with the ERC20 protocol being the most widely used standard. This protocol ensures compatibility within the Ethereum ecosystem, making it a preferred choice for new crypto token development.
Influence of cation disorder on the mineral physics of ankerite
Authors: Zucchini Azzurra , Ballaran Tiziana Boffa , Fastelli Maximiliano , Comboni Davide , Hanfland Michael , Frondini Francesco , Comodi Paola
Published: October 2024

The structural evolution and compressibility of ordered and disordered ankerite at pressures up to ~25 GPa using synchrotron single crystal X-ray diffraction in diamond anvil cell was analyzed. Ordered ankerite (space group R3) undergoes discontinuous phase transition between 12.15 and 13.45 GPa to a high-pressure structure called ankerite-II (space group P1) that has Ca in eight-fold coordination. Disordered ankerite (R3c space group) does not undergo a phase transition in the investigated pressure range.

A Birch-Murnaghan equation of state has been used to fit the volume compressibility. Ordered ankerite [K0V=95(1) GPa - K’=3.8(3)] appears slightly more compressible than disordered ankerite [K0V=99(1) GPa - K’=2.7(1)]. The phase transition in ordered ankerite has a change in volume of approximately 0.6% and K13.45V=110(11) GPa - K’=7(3) for ankerite-II. The possible significance of this differential behavior of ordered and disordered ankerite is discussed.
Prognostic value of the neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio in the development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome and death in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Sarkarova M. R. , Maevskaya M. V.
Published: October 2024

Introduction. The search for markers reflecting immune disorders and their contribution to the progression of liver cirrhosis (LC) is very relevant.

Aim. To study the possibility of using the “neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio” indicator as a predictor of the development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome and death.

Materials and methods. For a retrospective clinical study, 225 case histories of patients with cirrhosis were selected from 2008 to 2018. Three groups were formed from them: group 1: patients with cirrhosis class A according to Child – Pugh (n = 24); group 2: patients with cirrhosis class B and C according to Child – Pugh (n = 201) and group 3: healthy individuals (n = 50). The prognostic value of the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) indicator in the development of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) and death in patients with cirrhosis was analyzed.

Results. Patients with LC had statistically significantly higher values of NLR compared to healthy individuals (p < 0.001). The NLR indicator is an independent risk factor and a statistically significant predictor of the development of SIRS in patients with LC. A NLR value > 3.59 had a sensitivity of 0.38 [95% CI: 0.28; 0.48] and specificity 0.93 [95% CI: 0.87; 0.97]. NLR served as a statistically significant predictor of death (p < 0.001). A NLR value > 4.5 had a sensitivity of 0.24 [95% CI: 0.15; 0.36] and specificity 0.97 [95% CI: 0.92; 0.99].

Conclusion. An NLR value of more than 3.59 increases the risk of developing SIRS in patients with cirrhosis, and an NLR value of more than 4.5 increases the risk of death.
Association of neutropenia and decreased neutrophil function with liver fibrosis in patients with Opisthorchis felineus invasion
Authors: Vasyutin A. V. , Tsukanov V. V. , Veselova N. E. , Gorchilova E. G. , Tonkikh J. L. , Savchenko A. A. , Borisov A. G.
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Neutrophils are important participants in the innate immune response, are the first to react to a pathogenic factor and quickly develop non-specific reactions. At the same time, there are no studies on the functional activity of neutrophils in patients with Opisthorchis felineus (O. felineus) invasion.

Aim. To study the clinical and laboratory manifestations of opisthorchiasis depending on the leukocyte indicators of the complete blood count.

Materials and methods. A total of 328 patients with O. felineus invasion (120 men and 208 women) and 51 practically healthy patients (28 men and 23 women) were examined. Opisthorchiasis was diagnosed using coproovoscopy and microscopy of duodenal contents. All patients with O. felineus invasion underwent complete and biochemical blood tests. Liver elastometry using Aixplorer (France) or Siemens Acuson S2000 (Germany) with determination of the liver fibrosis degree according to METAVIR, and blood neutrophils functional activity study were performed in 103 patients with chronic opisthorchiasis (58 men and 45 women).

Results. A tendency was found to increase the proportion of leukopenia by 3.5 times (p = 0.12) and neutropenia by 1.9 times (p = 0.15) in patients with liver fibrosis F2-F3 according to METAVIR compared to individuals with liver fibrosis F0 according to METAVIR. The absolute neutrophil content in patients with O. felineus invasion and liver fibrosis F2-F3 according to METAVIR was decreased in comparison with individuals with liver fibrosis F0 according to METAVIR (2.24 × 109/l versus 3.06 × 109/l, p = 0.04). A decrease in the functional activity of neutrophils in the blood was also registered in patients with liver fibrosis F2-F3 according to METAVIR in comparison with individuals with F0 according to METAVIR.

Conclusion. A decrease in the number and functional activity of neutrophils in the blood may be markers of an increased risk of liver fibrosis in patients with opisthorchiasis. It is advisable to study the possibilities of immunomodulatory drugs on the course of O. felineus invasion.
Clinical manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease in medical university students
Authors: Voropaeva S. V. , Shakhova N. K. , Belokon S. E. , Davydova M. A. , Inozemtseva N. O. , Kirgey N. A. , Moskaleva E. V.
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Students are a risk group for the development of chronic diseases. Clinical manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease, as a chronic disease, are often masked by diseases of other organs, which complicates diagnosis and reduces the effectiveness of treatment.

Aim. To identify clinical symptoms characteristic of gastroesophageal reflux disease among students of medical university and to propose a set of measures to prevent the identified disorders.

Materials and methods. We conducted a survey of 120 students of the 3rd year of medical university, including oral examination, original questionnaire and GerdQ questionnaire-questionnaire.

Results. According to the questionnaire data, only 13.9% regularly eat 3–4 times a day, 56.4% have a diet consisting mainly of fast food. 22.2% of students smoke, alcohol is occasionally consumed by 70.8%. Constant stress is experienced by 47.2% of surveyed students. The examination revealed the following: pain at swallowing in 2.8%; feeling of a lump in the throat, attacks of nausea in 13.9%, heartburn in 3%, frequent belching in 9.7%, complaints of pain in the epigastric region in 18.1% of students. Chronic infections of the oral cavity and pharynx (laryngitis, pharyngitis) were registered in 11.1%, cough, hoarseness of voice in 5.6%, caries and changes in the oral mucosa were diagnosed in 4.2% of students. According to the analysis of the GerdQ questionnaire, the presence of 8 or more points was found in 13.3% of students who were recommended to undergo an in-depth examination by a gastroenterologist.

Conclusion. Clinical manifestations characteristic of gastroesophageal reflux disease were revealed in the examined students. A comprehensive approach to diagnosis, proposed measures aimed at correcting risk factors, conducting educational and preventive activities will help to reduce the prevalence of the disease and improve the quality of life of young people.
Long-term efficacy and survival of ustekinumab therapy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Shapina M. V.
Published: October 2024

The article reviews data on the long-term effectiveness and survival of biological therapies for treating inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. It highlights the shift in treatment goals, emphasizing not only induction and maintenance of remission but also long-term outcomes. The choice of therapy is becoming increasingly complex, as it must consider both clinical efficacy and endoscopic remission, which, serves as a predictor of long-term treatment effectiveness. Special attention is given to ustekinumab – antibodies targeting interleukins 12 and 23. This drug has shown high long-term effectiveness and safety in treating ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Studies indicate that ustekinumab effectively maintains clinical remission in patients, providing stable results and a low rate of serious adverse events. Long-term data also highlight its advantages over other biological agents, such as infliximab and adalimumab, in terms of therapy sustainability. The article includes data from clinical trials of ustekinumab extending up to 5 years, demonstrating good treatment sustainability, as well as various real-world practice studies confirming the prolonged effectiveness of ustekinumab in patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. The article evaluates and analyzes these data on long-term effectiveness and drug survival and also emphasizes the importance of an individualized approach in selecting therapy, taking into account prior treatment experience and inflammation activity.