bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Impact of EOR on for a Niger-Delta Case Study. A Mathematical and Simulation Approach
Authors: Ehibor Idahosa , Ojunjobi Abiodun , Amaefuna Magnus , Olowoyeye Oluwasola , Oyekade Suraju , Adetola Babatunde , Goodhead Eresinkumo , Falode Olugbenga , Olusiji Adeyanju , Olafuyi Olalekan
Published: August 2024

Chemical flooding is thought to be a more practical and economical way to increase heavy oil recovery. The ideal concentration of the injected chemical species, required to maintain fluid viscosity, must be taken into account and optimized to enhance injection performance. The objective of this study is to study the effect of injection chemicals (Alkali polymer-surfactant species) in order to maximize injection performance of the Field XY heavy oil reservoir in the Niger Delta region. The phenomenon of fluid and heat transfer within chemical species in the reservoir and rock pore structures are modelled with three fluid phases and a 3-dimensional domain, using mathematical equations of momentum, transport and heat transfer, and solved by finite difference approximations to illustrate the problem. The CMG 2021 software's simulation findings provide result validation and a subset of the experimental data are compared with the recovery outcomes.

The oil recovery findings indicate that the water saturation in the "flooded" zone was reduced while the viscosity of the injected surfactant-polymer solution was increased, thereby improving the heavy oil recovery. Fluid-Fluid aqueous reactions and rock interactions with fluid and its impact on reservoir pressure and recovery is discussed. Measurements of interfacial tension reveal over 90% decrease, which is in agreement with experimental findings.
Numerical Simulation of Waterflooding Using a Varied Transmissibility Tensor Approach
Authors: Ajayi A. E. , Ojukwu I. N. , Taiwo O. A. , Olafuyi O. A.
Published: August 2024

In the numerical simulation of enhanced oil recovery, it is key to precisely represent the reservoir's permeability and its directional dependence, as this is influential on the overall outcome of the prediction. Including a transmissibility tensor to the mix is essential for analyzing reservoirs, as it takes into account the directional flow properties while providing a better understanding of fluid flow within the reservoir and the identification of potential barriers to flow, preferential flow paths or directions.

Traditional applications and representations of transmissibility tensors is flawed by the assumption that that the tensor is diagonal and this could lead to erroneous representations of flow behavior, particularly in reservoirs with complex anisotropy.

This study applies finite difference in constructing a varied transmissibility tensor for waterflooding in an anisotropic reservoir model thereby, visualizing and demonstrating that the method can accurately capture complex flow patterns and enhance oil recovery predictions compared to traditional approaches that assume a diagonal tensor. The study highlights that the tensor is analogous to the >1 matrix, which is the matrix of coefficients in an implicit discretization scheme.
Evaluating Long-term Thermal and Chemical Stability and Leaching Potential of Low-temperature Phase Change Materials in Concrete Slabs Exposed to Outdoor Environmental Conditions
Authors: Deb Robin , Iqbal Mohammad Irfan , Farnam Yaghoob (Amir)
Published: August 2024

This study examined the potential of using PCM-integrated concrete slabs for long-term thermal-responsive applications in an outdoor environment condition. The objectives were: (i) to evaluate long-term thermal response, snow melting and freeze-thaw reduction efficiency of PCM integrated concrete slabs, (ii) to characterize the chemical stability of PCM in cement matrix, and (ii) to evaluate the possibility of PCM leaching into the cement matrix and subgrade soil of the slabs. The experimental program included: (i) outdoor experimentation using large-scale field concrete slabs, (ii) longitudinal guarded comparative calorimetric (LGCC) tests of cut-bar concrete specimens from field slabs and comparing them with lab-made samples, (iii) Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic characterization of PCM in mortar and subgrade soil specimens from field slabs, and (iv) low-temperature differential scanning calorimetric (LT-DSC) tests to assess heat evolution properties of small-scale PCM-integrated concrete specimens and quantify the amount of PCM contamination in subgrade soil. Results presented varying degrees of effectiveness after three years of environmental exposure: Micro-encapsulated PCM (MPCM) concrete exhibited considerable success (i.e., ~50 %) in snow melting while PCM infused in lightweight aggregates (PCM-LWA) concrete failed to provide substantial snow-melting; moreover, both PCM-LWA and MPCM slabs showed diminished resistance to freeze-thaw cycles compared to the first-year winter cycle data. Factors contributing to efficiency loss are found to be shell degradation of microcapsules, potential leaching of PCM into subgrade soil (i.e., between 2 to 3 % wt. concentration), and effects of warm temperatures influencing the degree of evaporation, as evidenced with LGCC, FTIR and LT-DSC results. Strategies to enhance efficiency and stability include improved encapsulation techniques, and vascularization methods.
Non-destructive monitoring of carbonation propagation in cementitious systems using the measurement of intrinsic electrical property
Authors: Babaahmadi Arezou , Tang Luping , Huang Liming , Löfgren Ingemar
Published: August 2024

Monitoring carbonation in concrete is crucial for assessing the long-term durability of structures. Reducing clinker content by incorporating supplementary cementitious materials raises concerns about carbonation-induced corrosion and alterations in pore solution chemistry as well as microstructure. These changes can significantly impact the durability and engineering properties of concrete. Therefore, there is a critical need for thorough monitoring of carbonation propagation within the evaluation of the new generation of composite binders.
To monitor carbonation, various techniques are employed. One common method involves splitting specimens and using pH indicators, such as phenolphthalein, to detect changes in the concrete's alkalinity. This paper presents the development of a novel carbonation monitoring method based on conductivity measurements in cementitious matrix. The proposed method leverages the correlation between carbonation and changes in concrete's electrical conductivity. The method enables in-situ monitoring of carbonation propagation in mortar specimens through application of embedded mini-sensors for measurement of electrical properties. The developed mini-sensors consist of 10 sets of 4-points-Winner electrodes (stainless steel) at a depth interval of 2.54 mm for conductivity measurements. By strategically placing these mini-sensors within the cementitious matrix, real-time measurements can be carried out, allowing for continuous monitoring of carbonation progression. This approach offers advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness, simplicity, and non-destructiveness compared to traditional destructive laborious methods.
Comparisons of biodiversity metrics reveal dissimilarities in biodiversity hotspot identification
Authors: Strickland Lynette , Dahlin Kyle , Cleemput Elisa Van , Adhikari Subodh , Castillioni Karen
Published: August 2024

As global climate change impacts ecosystems, establishing conservation priorities is crucial for managing threatened areas with limited resources. Biodiversity hotspots, typically defined by high degrees of endemism, play a key role in conservation. However, traditional hotspots may not capture the full extent of biodiversity, including functional and phylogenetic biodiversity or biodiversity incorporating traditional ecological knowledge (TEK). This study compares biodiversity hotspots identified by 17 diversity indices in the Pacific Northwest, USA, using data from 318 plant species. We consider species richness, phylogenetic diversity, functional diversity, and TEK-based diversity. Using simulated plant communities, we assess whether indices identify the same biodiversity hotspots. We find biodiversity metrics form two groups based on shared hotspot identification, suggesting single metrics may overlook other forms of biodiversity. Interestingly, TEK metrics cluster with some traditional indices, including species richness. This work offers new insights on integrating biodiversity measures for discerning regional biodiversity hotspots and conservation priorities.
An oral hypoglycemic agent for T2DM with the function of alleviating multi-complications
Authors: Zhang Shiyong , Xiao Xiao , Lu Xiaoluan , Zhang Yi , Ran Xingwu , Cheng Yangyang , Yang Zunyuan , Liao Chunyan , Wu Yao
Published: August 2024

Although hypoglycemic drugs with the function of alleviating complications such as GLP-1RA and SGLT2i have been used in clinic, these drugs are still far from meeting the treatment needs. Herein, we report an oral hypoglycemic agent for T2DM with the function of alleviating multi-complications including neuropathy by way of self-polymerizing dietary antioxidant lipoic acid (LA) into a nanodrug called poly-lipoic acid particles (pLAPs). The self-polymerization made the oral T1/2 and AUC0 ~ 72 h of LA up to 23.2 h and 3761.8 ± 55.9 h*µg/mL, ~ 46 times and ~ 23 times higher than that of LA monomer, respectively. As entering the cells, pLAPs were slowly degraded to LA in response to glutathione to prolong the intracellular retention time of LA from ~ 10 min to > 6 h. This prolongation achieved a continuous activation of the insulin signaling pathway, making a long-lasting and near-normal blood glucose level hypoglycemic effect come true. Thanks to the significant improvement of pharmacokinetics and intracellular retention time, pLAPs restored the oxidative stress and inflammation-related indicators to the normal control levels in the T2DM models with neuropathy and angiopathy, leading to the outstanding therapeutic effect on these complications. Importantly, the promising efficacy of pLAPs was confirmed in the model of spontaneous diabetic rhesus monkeys with neuropathy. Considering its excellent biosafety, the oral hypoglycemic drug with multi-complication alleviation holds clinical potential.
Mental health changes during and after the COVID-19 pandemic in children and adolescents with mental disorders
Authors: Zijlmans Josjan , Rijn Lotte van , Alrouh Hekmat , Broek Emma , Luijten Michiel , Tieskens Jacintha , Mheen Malindi van der , Oers Hedy van , Cahn Wiepke , Schellekens Arnt , Hein; DREAMS Consortium Julia K Bird; Jan K Buitelaar; Ymkje Anna , Polderman Tinca JC , Zinkstok Janneke R
Published: August 2024

Background
The COVID-19 pandemic negatively affected child and adolescent mental health, but it is unclear which subgroups were affected most. We investigated to what extent psychiatric diagnosis was related to the severity of mental health problems during and after the pandemic in children in psychiatric outpatient care.
Methods
We collected data at seven time points (from April 2020 to April 2023) in a total sample of 2,545 children (8-18 years old) in psychiatric outpatient care. We grouped diagnostic classifications in four categories: Autism, ADHD, Anxious/Depressive disorders, or ‘Other’. Mental health was assessed with parent‐reported data on internalizing and externalizing problems with the Brief Problem Monitor, and with self‐reported data on Anxiety, Depressive symptoms, Sleep‐related impairments, Anger, Global health, and Peer relations with the Patient‐Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS®). We tested for overall main effects in mental health outcomes between diagnostic categories, and for different trajectories over time.
Results
We found that mental health outcomes varied substantially between diagnostic categories as expected, with internalizing problems being largest in children with Anxious/Depressive disorders, and externalizing problems being largest in children with Autism and ADHD. However, we found no evidence for differences between diagnostic categories in trajectories in mental health outcomes during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Discussion
Differences between diagnostic categories were as expected, however trajectories over time during and after the pandemic were not different for diagnostic categories in our sample. This suggests that the pandemic had an overall negative effect on mental health outcomes in children and adolescents in psychiatric outpatient care, rather than different effects for children with specific mental disorders. Regular high-quality monitoring is vital to recognize changing trajectories of youth mental health and to adapt to crisis situations.
Regional distribution of cellular of molecular pathways in a mouse model of Gulf War illness by Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Analysis
Authors: Naughton Sean X , Yang Eun-Jeong , Iqbal Umar , Trageser Kyle , Charytonowicz Daniel , Masieri Sibilla , Estill Molly , Wu Henry , Raval Urdhva , Lyu Weiting , Wu Qing-li , Shen Li , Simon James , Sebra Robert , Pasinetti Giulio Maria
Published: August 2024

Gulf War Illness (GWI) is a chronic multisymptom disorder that affects approximately 25–32% of Gulf War veterans, and the combination of permethrin exposure with stress may have collectively and synergistically contributed to its development. However, the exact underlying pathogenic mechanisms within the brain that links permethrin and stress to the development of GWI remains unclear. In the current study, we investigate the effects and the associated molecular mechanisms within the microglia-neuron interplay in a mouse model of GWI, focusing on how exposure to permethrin may act as a priming agent when followed by stress. Subjecting mice to 14 days of chronic permethrin exposure followed by 7 days of stress resulted in the development of depression-like behavior. This behavioral change coincided with distinct alterations in the microglia phenotype, indicating microglial activation in the hippocampa. We revealed that blocking microglial activation through Gi inhibitory DREADD receptors in microglia effectively prevented the behavioral change associated with permethrin and stress exposure. To elucidate the transcriptional networks impacted within distinct microglia populations linked to depression-like behavior in mice exposed to both permethrin and stress, we conducted a single-cell RNA sequencing analysis using 21,566 single nuclei collected from the hippocampus of mice. For bioinformatics, UniCell Deconvolve was a pre-trained, interpretable, deep learning model used to deconvolve cell type fractions and predict cell identity across spatial datasets. Our bioinformatics analysis identified significant alterations in permethrin exposure followed by stress-associated microglia population, notably pathways related to neuronal development, neuronal communication, and neuronal morphogenesis, all of which are associated with neural synaptic plasticity. Additionally, we observed permethrin exposure followed by stress-mediated changes in signal transduction, including modulation of chemical synaptic transmission, regulation of neurotransmitter receptors, and regulation of postsynaptic neurotransmitter receptor activity, a known contributor to the pathophysiology of depression in a subset of the hippocampal pyramidal neurons in the CA3 subregions. These studies tentatively suggest that permethrin may prime toward a depression-like behavior that can be triggered by psychological stress in mice through microglial activation, resulting in alterations of neural plasticity. This new evidence underscores the significance of the synergistic role of multi-causal factors associated with GWI.
Anti-CD7 allogeneic WU-CART-007 in patients with relapsed/refractory T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia/lymphoma: a phase 1/2 trial
Authors: Ghobadi Armin , Aldoss Ibrahim , Maude Shannon , Bhojwani Deepa , Wayne Alan , Bajel Ashish , Dholaria Bhagirathbhai , Faramand Rawan , Mattison Ryan , Rijneveld Anita , Zwaan C. , Calkoen Frisco , Baruchel Andre , BOISSEL Nicolas , Rettig Michael , Wood Brent , Jacobs Kenneth , Christ Stephanie , Irons Haley , Capoccia Ben , Gonzalez Justo , Wu Tony , Rosario Maria del , Hamil Alexander , Bakkacha Ouiam , Muth John , Ramsey Brett , McNulty Eileen , Cooper Matthew , Baughman Jan , Davidson-Moncada Jan , DiPersio John
Published: August 2024

Relapsed/refractory T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL)/lymphoma (LBL) represent a significant unmet medical need. WU-CART-007 is a CD7-targeting, allogeneic, fratricide-resistant chimeric antigen receptor T cell product generated from healthy donor T cells. WU-CART-007 was evaluated in a phase 1/2 study with a 3 + 3 dose-escalation design followed by cohort expansion in relapsed/refractory T-ALL/LBL. Patients received one infusion of WU-CART-007 after standard or enhanced lymphodepleting chemotherapy. The primary objectives, to characterize safety and assess the composite complete remission rate, were met. Of 26 patients enrolled, 13 received the recommended phase 2 dose (RP2D) of 900 million cells of WU-CART-007 with enhanced lymphodepletion. The most common treatment-related adverse event was cytokine release syndrome (88.5%; 19.2% grade 3–4). Biochemical abnormalities consistent with grade 2 hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis were seen in one patient (3.8%). Grade 1 immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome events (7.7%) and one grade 2 acute graft-vs-host disease event occurred. Grade 5 events (11.5%) were due to fungal infection and multi-organ failure. The composite complete remission rate was 81.8% among 11/13 patients evaluable for response at the RP2D. WU-CART-007 at the RP2D demonstrated a high response rate in patients with relapsed/refractory T-ALL/LBL and has the potential to provide a new treatment option. ClinicalTrials.gov registration: NCT04984356.
Revamped dynamic opposite learning the hiking optimization algorithm for global optimization and engineering applications
Authors: P Rajasekar , M Jayalakshmi
Published: August 2024

In recent decades, numerous notable meta-heuristic algorithms have been developed to tackle complex optimization problems. Nevertheless, these existing meta-heuristics need to be enhanced with various evolutionary techniques to tackle new challenges in engineering applications. This analysis aims to improve the efficiency of the recently introduced Hiking Optimization Algorithm (HOA), a human-inspired method that simulates the complexities of a hiking journey aiming to reach a peak. The hiking environment, featuring rugged terrain with multiple local peaks and a global peak, mirrors an optimization search landscape. Like other algorithms, HOA has limitations, such as becoming trapped in local optima and lacking sufficient exploration capability, leading to premature convergence in challenging optimization problems. This study offers an upgraded version of HOA incorporating a revamped dynamic opposite learning (RDOL) strategy, called the revamped dynamic opposite learning HOA (RDOLHOA). RDOLHOA dynamically adjusts the weighting factor using a nonlinear function to balance exploration and exploitation. This innovation aims to reduce the randomness of the initial population and decrease the search effort required to find the optimal solution. Experiments on twenty-three diverse functions from the CEC 2005 test suites and various real world engineering problems show that RDOLHOA outperforms HOA with a faster convergence rate. Additionally statistical tests, particularly the Wilcoxon rank-sum test, demonstrate that RDOLHOA exceeds the performance of other competing algorithms in real world engineering design problems.
Community perceptions of ethics and professionalism of community health workers – a qualitative exploration
Authors: Gopichandran Vijayaprasad , Subramaniam Sudharshini , Palanisamy Balasubramanian , Chidambaram Priyadarshini
Published: August 2024

Background
Community health workers (CHW) work closely with communities and therefore encounter several important ethical issues in their work. Community perceptions about their practice of ethics and professionalism is important.
Methods
We conducted 4 focus group discussions (FGD) among pregnant women and lactating mothers, 4 FGDs among women in the community, 3 in depth interviews (IDI) among women and 2 IDIs among men in two districts of Tamil Nadu, India. We explored the various practices of ethics and professionalism in these discussions and interviews. We transcribed the data, coded the transcripts, and built themes by combining the codes meaningfully.
Results
The CHWs ensure good quality of services by effective use of mobile phone and by going beyond the call of duty. They face several challenges in doing good to the community. On the other hand, there were many instances where they failed to deliver their duties which led to harms. Living far away from the community, spending less time there, delegating their work to lay persons all compromised the performance of their duties. CHW’s lack of good communication skills, lack of updated knowledge, and inefficient work were pointed out by the community. Treating the people as mere statistics and not caring for them as people was a reason for dissatisfaction. The quality of a CHW’s work was assessed relatively in comparison with other CHWs who were perceived as good and not in comparison with standards or expectations. Lack of honesty, demanding bribes, disrespectful treatment, discrimination of the marginalized communities, coercion, and lack of privacy and confidentiality were also reported in the CHW’s work. Reports of such unethical practices were more from people belonging to scheduled castes and tribes compared to those from dominant castes. The attributes of professionalism of a CHW reported by the community were altruism, empathy, inspiring confidence and trust, honesty, humility, kindness, relatability, adaptability, care, and tolerance.
Conclusions
The community identified important good and bad practices among CHWs. There is a need to share this information with CHWs and train them to improve practices of ethics and professionalism in their work.
Antarctic ice microstructure and experimental study of Brazilian splitting
Authors: Luo Yaolong , Lv Jianguo , Xu Haoran , Jia Xiamin , Xie Pengfei , Wei Mingsheng
Published: August 2024

Tensile strength is one of the fundamental mechanical parameters of Antarctic ice. Due to the challenges associated with direct tensile testing, this study employs the Brazilian disc splitting test to indirectly measure the tensile strength of Antarctic ice. Initially, ice cores drilled from the ice cap near Zhongshan Station in Antarctica were processed into Brazilian split disc specimens using a lathe. The microstructure and chemical composition of the ice specimens, including concentrations of\(\:{\text{C}\text{l}}^{-},{\text{N}\text{O}}_{3}^{-}\),and\(\:{\text{S}\text{O}}_{4}^{2-}\),were analyzed.Simultaneously, a high-pressure low-temperature triaxial instrument was utilized for loading to obtain stress-strain relationship curves under different loading rates, thereby exploring the effects of loading rate on tensile strength and elastic modulus.Using near-field dynamics and deformation field analysis, the Brazilian splitting damage process was simulated to elucidate the tensile damage behavior of the ice samples. The results indicate that the Antarctic ice structure is granular and isotropic, with mechanical properties independent of crystal orientation. Consequently, loading in vertical and horizontal directions does not affect the tensile strength of Antarctic ice. Among the four primary ions,chloride (\(\:{\text{C}\text{l}}^{-})\)has the highest concentration, reflecting ocean-atmosphere interactions; sulfate (\(\:{\text{S}\text{O}}_{4}^{2-}\)) is the second most abundant, originating from ocean spray and human activities; and nitrate (\(\:{\text{N}\text{O}}_{3}^{-}\))primarily derives from atmospheric nitrogen oxides.Both the tensile strength and elastic modulus of the ice samples increase with loading rate.At a loading rate of 0.12mm/min,the minimum tensile strength is 0.32MPa,whereas at a loading rate of 3.72mm/min,the maximum tensile strength is 0.453MPa.Similarly,at a loading rate of 0.12mm/min,the minimum elastic modulus is 0.183GPa, and at a loading rate of 1.98mm/min,the maximum elastic modulus is 0.479GPa.Simulation of the damage process morphology and transverse displacement field distribution reveals the tensile damage behavior of Antarctic ice: under high loading rates (1.98 ~ 3.72mm/min) the ice specimens rapidly exhibit significant cracking;under low loading rates (0.11 ~ 0.35mm/min) the damage process predominantly involves three stages: crack initiation, crack propagation, and specimen failure.
Impact of Nutrient Composition on Rumen Microbiome Dynamics and Roughage Degradation
Authors: Ye Xiaoxing , Li Keyao , Li Yafei , Gu Mingming , OMOOR IBRAHIM N.A. , Liu Haoyu , Qiu Shuiling , Jiang Xinhui , Lu Jianing , Ma Zhiyi , Wu Jiyao , Gan Qianfu
Published: August 2024

Background: Ruminant animals such as goats rely on rumen microbial communities to degrade fibrous nutrients from roughages, facilitating their growth and development. This study investigates dynamic shifts in surface-attached rumen microbes in representative roughages: rice straw (RS), bamboo shoot sheet (BSS), and alfalfa (ALF). Four 14-month-old Min Dong goats with rumen fistulas were used, and the roughages were assessed at 4 h, 12 h, 24 h, 36 h, 48 h, and 72 h intervals. Microbiome composition and function were revealed through 16S rRNA and metagenomics sequencing.
Results: Prevotella and Treponema were the predominant genera in roughage degradation. Nutritional composition and tissue structure of roughages affected microbial attachment, causing variations in nutrient degradation rates. Microbials related to dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) degradation were abundant in early fermentation stages (4-12h) but decreased over time, while fiber-degrading microbials increased after 24 hours. Surface-attached microbials produced enzymes such as β-Glucosidase (BG), Endo-β-1,4-glucanase (C1), Exo-β-1,4-glucanase (Cx), and Neutral xylanase (NEX), with enzymatic activity correlating with the fiber content of the roughages.
Conclusions: These findings advance our understanding of microbial roles in ruminant nutrition and digestion. The interaction between microbial communities and rumen fermentation is pivotal for understanding collaborative gene encoding by goat rumen microbiota, which is critical for fiber degradation.
Association of systemic inflammatory biomarkers with hearing loss: Results from NHANES 1999–2020 analyses
Authors: Wang Yaojie , He Lisha , Huang Guoxin , Li Xiaodan , Qin Chenge , Cheng Sheng , Tan Huazhang , Tian Jing , Wang Qiuyang
Published: August 2024

Background:Hearing loss (HL) is a prevalent global health issue with a complex etiology in whichinflammation plays a significant role. The systemic immune inflammatory index (SII), a novel biomarker reflecting systemic inflammation, is hypothesized to correlate with HL.
Methods: Utilizing National Health and Nutritional Health Survey (NHANES) data from 1999–2020, this study analyzed the relationship between the SII and HL, categorized ashigh-frequency hearing loss (HFHL) orspeech-frequency hearing loss (SFHL). Blood samples were collected to calculate the SII. Weighted multivariate linear and logistic regression analyses were used to examine the linear relationship between the SII and hearing loss. After the SII was categorized into quartiles, a trend test was applied to assess the linear association between the SII and HL. Subgroup analysis was conducted to explore the correlation between the SII and HL across different sexes.
Results: Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed no significant correlation between the SII and the occurrence of hearing loss or SFHL (p>0.05), but there was a correlation between the SII and HFHL. Multivariate logistic regression revealed a significant positive correlation between the third quartile of the SII and hearing loss. In the second quartile, there was a significant positive correlation between the SII and SFHL. For HFHL, a significant positive correlation between the SII and HFHL was present only in the crude model and in the second and third quartiles. Stratified analysis of clinical variables revealed a positive correlation between SII and the onset of hearing loss in those with never alcohol intake and moderate alcohol intake, a positive correlation between the SII and HFHL in those with moderate alcohol intake,and a negative correlation between the SII and SFHL in those with a normal BMI, aged older than 60 years, and who were former smokers. In the RCSplot, a reverse U-shaped association was observed between the SII and the prevalence of hearing loss and SFHL (nonlinear p<0.05). There was a positive correlation between the SII and the incidence of HFHL. After stratification by sex, the SII showed a reverse U-shaped association with hearing loss in males and a positive correlation in females.
Conclusion: The SII is positively correlated with HFHL and shows a potential U-shaped relationship with HL and SFHL. In males, there was a reverse U-shaped association between the SII and hearing loss, while in females, there was a positive correlation.
Understanding the Perspectives and Experiences of Patients with Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis in the Hospital: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Romain Dustin , Larson Charlotte , Kathuria Priya Kathuria , Aintabi Daniel , Tedesco Nicholas , Saunyama Queen , DeJonckheere Melissa , Bishu Shrinivas , Cohen-Mekelburg Shirley , Higgins Peter , Berinstein Jeffrey
Published: August 2024

Introduction:
Acute severe ulcerative colitis (ASUC) is a life-treating presentation of ulcerative colitis (UC) that requires prompt initiation of treatment to avoid complication. Unfortunately, outcomes for ASUC are suboptimal, with as many as 20-30% of patients requiring colectomy. This can be challenging for patients and highlights the need to understand patient experiences and perspectives navigating ASUC.
Methods:
A qualitative descriptive study utilizing semi-structured interviews was conducted to understand perspectives and experiences of patients navigating ASUC. Adult patients hospitalized for ASUC between January 2017 and March 2024 were eligible. Interviews were conducted both retrospectively among patients with a recent hospitalization and prospectively among patients within 24 hours of hospitalization for ASUC. Interviews were analyzed using a well-established hybrid inductive-deductive approach.
Results:
Thirty-four patients (44.2% response rate) hospitalized for ASUC were interviewed. Hybrid thematic analysis uncovered five major themes: 1) the pervasive impact of UC on QoL and mental health, 2) challenges associated with navigating uncertainty 3) prioritizing colon preservation, 4) bridging the divide between outpatient expectations and inpatient realities, and 5) balancing rapid symptom improvement with steroid safety. Our findings advocate for transparent approach to care, emphasizing the need for effective communication, education, and better alignment with patient values and expectations.
Conclusions:
Five key themes were identified, each with significant implications for developing a more patient-centered approach to ASUC care. These themes captured meaningful insight into patient perceptions and experiences, identifying multiple areas for actionable interventions to improve care.
Novel biological age model using explainable automated CT-based cardiometabolic biomarkers for phenotypic prediction of longevity
Authors: Pickhardt Perry , Kattan Michael , Lee Matthew , Pooler B. Dustin , Pyrros Ayis , Liu Daniel , Zea Ryan , Summers Ronald , Garrett John
Published: August 2024

We derived and tested a CT-based biological age (CTBA) model for predicting longevity, using an automated pipeline of explainable deep learning AI algorithms that quantify skeletal muscle, abdominal fat, aortic calcification, bone density, and solid abdominal organs. These AI tool were applied to abdominal CT scans from 123,281 adults (mean age, 53.6 years; 47% women; median clinical follow-up, 5.3 years). Final weighted CT biomarker selection was based on index of prediction accuracy (IPA). The CTBA model significantly outperformed standard demographic data for predicting longevity (IPA = 29.2 vs. 21.7; 10-year AUC = 0.880 vs. 0.779; p < 0.001), despite any knowledge of the latter. Age- and sex-corrected survival hazard ratio (HR) for the highest-vs-lowest risk CTBA quartile was 8.73 (95% CI,8.14–9.36). Muscle density, aortic plaque burden, visceral fat density, and bone density contributed most. Unlike (epi)genetic and metabolomic approaches, this personalized phenotypic CTBA model can be opportunistically-derived, regardless of clinical indication, to better inform risk assessment.
Orbital Dynamics of Lunar Frozen Orbits around Triaxial Moon in the Presence a Third Body Influences
Authors: Ramla O. M. , El-Salam F. A. Abd , Rahoma W. A. , Khattab E. H.
Published: August 2024

This research explores the existence of some new families of frozen orbits for satellites orbiting the triaxial Moon. The Hamiltonian of the problem incorporates the Moon's gravitational zonal harmonic coefficients up to \({J_6}\), along with the most significant triaxiality terms \({J_{22}}\), \({J_{31}}\),\({J_{32}}\), \({J_{33}}\), and the third-body perturbation due to Earth. By applying canonical Lie transforms, the short periodic terms are eliminated from the Hamiltonian, retaining the long periodic terms up to the second order. This study uncovers new families of critical inclination roots, with one set close to polar orbits and another near the typical critical inclination. It examines the dynamical variations in critical inclination due to changes in eccentricity, semi-major axis, and argument of periapsis. A family of frozen orbits with a fixed apsidal line is derived and graphically represented. To ensure the stability of these orbits, the periapsis argument solution imposes specific restrictions on selecting the inclination that satisfies the frozen argument of periapsis condition. Perturbations in the critical inclination become notably significant for high lunar orbits due to 3rd body perturbation from Earth.
Deciphering Molecular Specificity in MCL-1/BAK Interaction and Its Implications for Designing Potent MCL-1 Inhibitors
Authors: Chen Yongheng , Wei Hudie , Wang Haolan , Xiang Shuang , Wang Jiaqi , Qu Lingzhi , Chen Xiaojuan , Guo Ming , Lu Xiaoyun
Published: August 2024

The intricate interplay among BCL-2 family proteins governs mitochondrial apoptosis, with the anti-apoptotic protein MCL-1 primarily exerting its function by sequestering the pore-forming effector BAK. Understanding the MCL-1/BAK complex is pivotal for the sensitivity of cancer cells to BH3 mimetics, yet the precise molecular mechanism underlying their interaction remains elusive. Herein, we demonstrate that a canonical BH3 peptide from BAK inadequately binds to MCL-1 proteins, whereas an extended BAK-BH3 peptide with five C-terminal residues exhibits a remarkable 65-fold increase in affinity. By elucidating the complex structures of MCL-1 bound to these two BAK-BH3 peptides at 2.08 Å and 1.98 Å resolutions, we uncover their distinct binding specificities. Notably, MCL-1 engages in critical hydrophobic interactions with the extended BAK-BH3 peptide, particularly at an additional p5 sub-pocket, featuring a π-π stacking interaction between MCL-1 Phe319 and BAK Tyr89. Mutations within this p5 sub-pocket substantially disrupt the MCL-1/BAK protein-protein interaction. Furthermore, the p5 sub-pocket of MCL-1 significantly influences the efficacy of MCL-1 inhibitors. Overall, our findings elucidate the molecular specificity underlying MCL-1 binding to BAK and underscore the significance of the p5 hydrophobic sub-pocket in their high-affinity interaction, thus providing novel insights for the development of BH3 mimetics targeting the MCL-1/BAK interaction as potential therapeutics for cancer treatment.
Effectiveness and reversibility test of electrochemical modification of mudstone hydro-mechanical parameters
Authors: Liu Peng , Han Liu
Published: August 2024

To study the modification effect of the hydromechanical parameters of mudstone after electrochemical modification and the reversibility of this modification, AlCl3 solution and Fe were selected as the electrolyte and electrode materials for the electrochemical modification test. The shear strength of the mudstone specimens was used as an evaluation index to evaluate the effect of electrochemical modification. The results of the electrochemical modification test of mudstone, using the controlled variable method, showed that the shear strength of the modified mudstone increased by about 1.4 times compared to the unmodified mudstone when a 20% AlCl3 solution and Fe electrode were used. The saturated water content of the modified mudstone, after re-absorption of water, was significantly reduced. The saturated water content of the specimens in the anode and cathode groups of the Fe electrode were 23.2% and 18.2%, respectively. The liquid limit water content after modification was 32.489%, which was lower than the 35.266% of unmodified mudstone, while the plastic limit water content increased from 20.728–22.697%. The water absorption rate of the modified mudstone specimens decreased significantly, with an average water absorption rate of 0.13 g/h, compared to 0.19 g/h for the unmodified mudstone. Through electrochemical modification, the mechanical strength of the mudstone was significantly improved, and its hydrophilicity and water absorption capacity were significantly reduced. The mudstone also exhibited an obvious strain softening feature after re-absorption but still showed a certain enhancement compared to the as-reinstated soil. This indicates that the electrochemically modified soil has a certain degree of reversibility after softening again upon contact with water.
Preparation of restricted access media-methacrylic resin and its application in the Lamotrigine determination in human plasma by solid-phase extraction
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Peng Qian , Dong Yummei , Dou Xiping , Li Ping , Bai Yinliang
Published: August 2024

Restricted access media-methacrylic resin with the ability of protein exclusion was prepared by the free radical polymerization using methacrylic acid, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate and glycidyl methacrylateas as monomer, cross-linker and comonomer, respectively. Protein exclusion ability of this material was studied. The results showed that the material was able to eliminate 93.6% of protein after bovine serum albumin solution was added and shaken for 220 min. Adsorption kinetics and adsorption isotherms of lamotrigine on this material were investigated, the experimental data were the most suitable for the pseudo-second-order kinetics model and Freundlich isotherm model. Restricted access media-methacrylic resin was used as sorbent for solid-phase extraction to extract lamotrigine from human plasma. The method for the determination of lamotrigine in human plasma by SPE coupled to the HPLC presented linear range from 0.999 to 66.6 µg/ml with correlation coefficient 0.9930 for lamotrigine, assay precision with relative standard deviation value 6.24%, and assay accuracy 94.7% -104.7% with relative standard deviation values 4.33%-5.81. SPEs filled with this material were used at least 7 times without any significant changes in their performance. Analytical validation parameters demonstrated that the method could be applied to the determination of lamotrigine at the therapeutic plasma levels without other treatments.
RETRACTED: Lung Nodule Classification Using Deep Learning Algorithms and Feature Fusion
Authors: Bhagwat Keshav , Thirupurasundari D. R.
Published: August 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Applications of Hierarchical Classification Techniques for Classifying Anxiety Among Undergraduate Admission Candidates in Bangladesh
Authors: Ali Akher , Sultana Afroza , Siddik Md Abu Bakkar , Kabir Mohammad Alamgir , Salan Md. Sifat Ar
Published: August 2024

Background
The undergraduate entrance exam, which is required for admission to either Bangladesh's public higher education institutions or medical institutions, is one of among the most important investigations in a student's life. The purpose of the current research was to employ sophisticated machine learning techniques to determine clinical anxiety prevalence among Bangladeshi admission participants while additionally discovering associated risks.
Methods
A total of 5239 individuals were randomly sampled and surveyed using the General Anxiety Disorders Scale (GAD-7) to assess the prevalence of anxiety. Boruta found anxiety prevalence predicting factors. We evaluated the decision tree (DT), support vector machines (SVM), random forest algorithm (RF), and extreme gradient boost (XGBoost) using traditional classification (TC) as well as hierarchical classification (HC), and their performance was evaluated using parameters of Confusion matrix, ROC curves, and the cross-validation.
Results
Among the respondents, one-third of them reported a severe level of anxiety. Participants' family problems, drug addiction, and eleven more were selected as risk factors predicting anxiety by using Boruta. The performance was tested based on two different classification techniques, considered traditional classification and hierarchical classification. Overall, the hierarchical classification in terms of local classification of the xtreme gradient boosting model (Accuracy = 0.926, Sensitivity = 0.987, Specificity = 0.22, F-score = 0.963, and AUC = 0.71) performed better and authentically predicted anxiety.
Conclusion
The findings offer legislators, stakeholders, and household members an opportunity to address this significant crisis proactively through enhanced policy, concentrated psychological well-being promotion, and the development of extremely effective mental health services.
Evaluation of oilseeed rape genotypes based on drought stress tolerance indices
Authors: aminzadeh behroz , alizadeh bahram , mozafari hamid , sani behzad
Published: August 2024

Drought stress is a serious problem for agriculture, and raising crop yields under drought stress has always been a challenge. Oilseeed rape is a valuable source of edible oil in the world and the improvement of drought tolerance in Oilseeed rape could increase the cultivation area. In order to evaluate the effect of drought stress on oilseeed rape genotypes, this study was conduct with 38 oilseeed rape genotype of winter type considering drought tolerance indices and high yield genotypes under both normal and stress conditions. This study was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications in two separate experiments (normal and drought stress conditions) in the research farm of Seed and Plant Breeding Research Institute Karaj, Iran, from 2016 to 2017. Significant differences among oilseeed rape genotypes was observed using analysis of variance for drought tolerance indices. Based on the YP, the genotype G13 (5.924 t ha− 1) showed the highest yield, while the genotypes G10 (4.2 t ha− 1) displayed the highest YS. Furthermore, MP, GMP, STI and K1STI indices were identified as suitable indices that exhibited a strong correlation with YP and YS. Additionally, the result of principal component analysis, biplot and 3D plot confirmed that genotype G10 had the highest performance under both stress and normal conditions.
Histone H2B Monoubiquitylation Regulates Elongation-to-Termination Transition in RNA Polymerase II Transcription
Authors: PARUA PABITRA , Bandyopadhyay Tirthankar , Basu Baidehi , Haque Nayem
Published: August 2024

RNA Polymerase II (Pol II)-dependent transcription is meticulously regulated during initiation, elongation, termination, and two pivotal transitions: from initiation to elongation and from elongation to termination. The successful transition from elongation to termination is vital for accurate transcription termination. While elongation and termination have been extensively studied, the regulatory mechanisms governing the transition between these stages are not fully understood. Here we report that, in fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe (S. pombe) and human cells, Cdk9 and its cyclin partner (Cyclin T in humans, and Pch1 in S. pombe) disengage from the elongation machinery near gene 3'-ends, as Pol II crosses the cleavage and polyadenylation signal (CPS). Concurrently, chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) data shows an increased association of Dis2 (the PP1 ortholog in S. pombe) beyond the CPS. Additionally, ChIP-seq indicates that histone H2B monoubiquitylation (H2Bub1) is pivotal for Cdk9 occupancy but serves differential roles along the gene. H2Bub1 facilitates Cdk9 chromatin recruitment during elongation but prompts Cdk9 dissociation from the elongation complex as Pol II traverses the CPS. Furthermore, in S. pombe, disruptions of H2Bub1 in htb1-K119R and sustained levels in ubp8D inversely affect the chromatin occupancy of Pol II, Pol II CTD phosphorylation within the heptad repeats, Spt5, phosphorylated Spt5 (pSpt5), Dis2, components of the mRNA 3’-end processing complex (Pfs2 and Pla1), and termination factors Rhn1 (Rtt103) and Pcf1 around the CPS—diminishing with H2Bub1 loss and increasing with H2Bub1 stabilization. In essence, our data indicates that the H2Bub1-mediated eviction of Cdk9 as Pol II navigates the CPS precipitates a rise in PP1 binding, which, in turn, dephosphorylates pSpt5, slowing Pol II to facilitate efficient termination. The unique modulation of Cdk9 occupancy by H2Bub1 during transcription progression presents a compelling, novel concept requiring further exploration.
Glacio-hydrological changes along the Andes throughout the 21st Century
Authors: Caro Alexis , Condom Thomas , Rabatel Antoine , Aguayo Rodrigo , Champollion Nicolas
Published: August 2024

Assessing future glacier water contributions is crucial for resource management. However, a large gap persists regarding Andean glacier runoff research. We evaluated eight CMIP6 models (1990-2049) on a glacierized area of 27,669 km², and projected future changes in glacier runoff (on 11,282 km² related to land-terminating glaciers) using an evaluated glaciological model in 778 catchments under two extreme SSP scenarios to estimate the year of maximum glacier runoff (peak water). We evaluated the different GCMs over the historical period using in situ data and showed that some of them perform better in specific glaciological regions. For the mid-21st century, warming trends are projected across the Andes, especially in the Tropical Andes (+0.7°C), while precipitation is expected to decrease slightly in the Southern Andes (-1 to -3%). These variables significantly affect glacier dynamics and runoff estimates. Glacier runoff estimates spanning 2000-2019 and projected to 2030-2049 indicate significant declines in the Tropical Andes (-43%) and Dry Andes (-37%), and a lesser decrease in the Wet Andes (-32%). Notably, the Atuel (-62%) and Tupungato (+32%) catchments in the Dry Andes show highly contrasted changes in annual runoff across the Andes. In terms of peak water, most catchments are expected to reach it before the first half of the 21st century (between 2010 and 2028). Our study underlines the critical importance of considering seasonal variations when analyzing GCMs in hydro-glaciological simulations and emphasizes regional disparities in glacier runoff across the Andes for future water resources management.