bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does delaying surgery following induction chemotherapy compromise survival in patients with mesothelioma?
Authors: Wong Lye-Yeng , Baiu Ioana , Leipzig Matthew , Titan Ashley , Liou Douglas Z. , Lui Natalie , Berry Mark , Shrager Joseph B. , Backhus Leah
Published: September 2023

Objective: The ideal time interval between induction chemotherapy and surgery and the impact on cancer mortality in patients with mesothelioma remains unclear.

Methods: We queried the National Cancer Database (2004-2017) for patients with favorable prognostic factors considered for surgery. Immediate surgery was performed within 3 months following the start of induction chemotherapy, while delayed surgery was defined as surgery performed later than 3 months. We compared both groups to those who did not have an operation despite being surgical candidates, as well as to those who were treated with surgery only. Overall mortality was assessed using Cox proportional hazard models adjusting for covariates.

Results: A total of 4,294 patients were included, with the majority of patients undergoing induction chemotherapy followed by no surgery (3,370, 78%). The proportion of patients undergoing both immediate and delayed surgery increased over the last decade, but delayed surgery continued to be more common. There were no significant differences in baseline characteristics between the immediate and delayed surgery groups. Higher comorbidity scores were significantly associated with an increased risk of death on multivariable analysis, but the timing of surgery was not. This held true with a sensitivity analysis using 6 months as the definition of delayed surgery.

Conclusions: This study shows that delaying surgery following induction chemotherapy does not compromise overall survival in patients with mesothelioma.
Viscoelastic rod using the generalized finite difference method
Authors: Korkut Fuat , Tokdemir Turgut
Published: September 2023

The finite difference method is quite extensively used to obtain the approximate solutions of many equations of mathematical physics. In this study, the precise algorithm in the time domain is combined with the generalized finite difference method to solve dynamic viscoelasticity problems. The numerical results obtained are satisfactory, and they are presented together with finite difference and finite element solutions.
Solutions on the Existence of a Novel Type of Hemivariational Inequality Systems
Authors: Azeez Ali Dhurgham , Hashoosh Ayed E.
Published: September 2023

Abstract

This paper aims to show that there are solutions to a novel class of hemivariational inequality (H.VI) whose results are described in a set of a reflexive Banach space X_n. In the first section, we discuss the link between our inequality issues and equilibrium issues. The second uses some nonlinearity (H.VI) results for their extension.
Efficiency of Modified Natural Clinoptilolite Tuff for As(III) and As(V) Uptake from Model Polluted Water
Authors: Stanimirova Tsveta , Karadjova Irina
Published: September 2023

The powdered sorbents were applied in a batch system under "static" conditions and showed a much higher adsorption capacity than the granular one. These type of sorbents are more suitable for small quantities of water with a high concentration of arsenic. The possibilities of using all the tested methods for arsenic removal have been evaluated, and a scheme of the technological process has been proposed.
Interpretation and Spatiotemporal Analysis of Terraces in the Yellow River Basin Based on Machine Learning
Authors: Li Zishuo , Tian Jia , Ya Qian , Feng Xuejuan , Liu Jie , Wang Yingxuan , Wu Jingjing
Published: September 2023

The Yellow River Basin (YRB) is a crucial ecological zone and an environmentally vulnerable re-gion in China. Understanding the temporal and spatial trends of terraced-field areas (TRAs) and the factors underlying them in the YRB is essential for improving land use, conserving water re-sources, promoting biodiversity, and preserving cultural heritage. In this study, we employed ma-chine learning on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform to obtain spatial distribution images of TRAs from 1990 to 2020 using Landsat 5 (1990－2010) and Landsat 8 (2015－2020) remote sens-ing data. The GeoDa software platform was used for spatial autocorrelation analysis, revealing distinct spatial clustering patterns. Mixed linear and random forest models were constructed to identify the driving force factors behind TRA changes. The research findings reveal that TRAs were primarily concentrated in the upper and middle reaches of the YRB, encompassing provinc-es such as Shaanxi, Shanxi, Qinghai, and Gansu, with areas exceeding 40,000 km2, whereas other provinces had TRAs of less than 30,000 km2 in total. The TRAs exhibited a relatively stable trend, with provinces such as Gansu, Qinghai, and Shaanxi showing an overall upward trajectory. Conversely, Shanxi and Inner Mongolia demonstrated an overall declining trend. When com-pared with other provinces, the variations in TRAs in Ningxia, Shandong, Sichuan, and Henan appeared to be more stable. The linear mixed model (LMM) revealed that farmland, shrubs, and grassland had significant positive effects on the TRA, explaining 41.6% of the variance. The ran-dom forest model also indicated positive effects for these factors, with high R² values of 0.983 and 0.86 for the training and testing sets, respectively, thus outperforming the LMM. The findings of this study can contribute to the restoration of the YRB's ecosystem and support sustainable devel-opment. The insights gained will be valuable for policymaking and decision support in soil and water conservation, agricultural planning, and environmental protection in the region.
Spatial and Temporal Evolution of the Eco-Efficiency of Cultivated Land Use in the Region around Beijing-Tianjin Based on the Super-EBM Model
Authors: Li Xiaoqing , Zhao Li , Chang Xinhan , Yu Jie , Song Xinming , Zhang Lizhu
Published: September 2023

The eco-efficiency of cultivated land use (ECLU) is an important indicator for the construction of ecological civilization in China. Exploring the spatiotemporal dynamic evolution of the ECLU is helpful for sustainable use of arable land, ensuring food security and ecological security. However, previous studies have mostly focused on the use of a slacks-based measure (SBM) model for ECLU measurement, ignoring the more accurate epsilon-based measure (EBM) model. Therefore, in this study, firstly, we explored the conceptual framework of ECLU, and then, based on the panel data of the counties in the region around Beijing and Tianjin from 2005 to 2020, we investigated the spatial and temporal evolution of ECLU by using the Super-EBM model, kernel density estimation method, and spatial Markov chain model. Results displayed: (1) From 2005 to 2020, the ECLU in the region around Beijing and Tianjin displayed an increasing state, but the average value was only 0.55. (2) The time evolution of the ECLU has gradually polarized, the internal gap has widened, but it tends to stabilize. (3) The ECLU in the region around Beijing-Tianjin was more inclined to keep it the same and there was a "club convergence" phenomenon, which was meaningfully affected by the background of neighboring areas. In the light of local conditions, the government should reasonably formulate the path to optimize the ECLU, strengthen the linkage with the surrounding cities, and bring into play the positive spillover effect.
ANALISIS PENGALAMAN BELAJAR MAHASISWA PENDIDIKAN TEKNIK MESIN DALAM MAGANG INDUSTRI DITINJAU DARI ASPEK KNOWLEDGE, SKILL DAN ATTITUDE
Authors: Kasanah Puput Nur
Published: September 2023

Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk (1) mengetahui tingkat pengalaman belajar mahasiswa setelah melaksanakan program magang industri ditinjau dari aspek knowledge, (2) mengetahui tingkat pengalaman belajar mahasiswa setelah melaksanakan program magang industri ditinjau dari aspek skill, (3) mengetahui tingkat pengalaman belajar mahasiswa setelah melaksanakan program magang industri ditinjau dari aspek attitude. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu deskriptif kuantitatif. Teknik pengambilan sampel yang digunakan nonprobability sampling yaitu total sampling dengan jumlah partisipan sebanyak 71 mahasiswa Pendidikan Teknik Mesin FKIP UNS. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan kuesioner / angket. Teknik uji validitas dilakukan dengan membandingkan nilai r hitung dengan nilai r tabel. Analisis data dengan menggunakan analisis deskriptif. Hasil penelitian ini adalah sebagai berikut. Pertama, tingkat pengalaman belajar mahasiswa aspek knowledge (pengetahuan) setelah melaksanakan magang industri memiliki nilai rata-rata 30,2535 dengan frekuensi sebanyak 45 mahasiswa dan persentase 63,4% berada dalam kategori tinggi. Kedua, tingkat pengalaman belajar mahasiswa aspek skill (keterampilan) setelah melaksanakan magang industri memiliki nilai rata-rata 35,1268 dengan frekuensi sebanyak 35 mahasiswa dan persentase 49,3% berada dalam kategori tinggi. Ketiga, tingkat pengalaman belajar mahasiswa aspek attitude (sikap) setelah melaksanakan magang industri memiliki nilai rata-rata 40,5915 dengan frekuensi sebanyak 43 mahasiswa dan persentase 60,6% berada dalam kategori tinggi. Penelitian ini diharapkan dapat bermanfaat bagi program studi dalam evaluasi program magang industri.

Kata kunci : Magang industri, pengalaman belajar, knowledge, skill, attitude
The Postponed Regional Head Elections in Emergency Situations: a Constitutional Democracy Perspective in Indonesia
Authors: Ahsan Fikri , Andrianto Wahyu , Achmad Andaru Djarot Dimas , Hanapi Mohamad Mohamad
Published: September 2023

The postponement of regional head elections may be done when the country is declared in a state of emergency. Emergencies such as war, economic crises, disease epidemics, and natural disasters affect the constitutional rights of citizens regulated by the 1945 Constitution. Therefore, legal instruments are needed to avoid unconstitutionality in fulfilling constitutional rights and democratic values during emergencies or dangers, including postponing regional elections during the COVID-19 pandemic.  Article 12 of the 1945 Constitution is the most relevant legal basis for activating emergency constitutional law   when   the   state   is  declared dangerous. However, Article 22 of the 1945 Constitution was preferred in postponing  regional  elections.  Even though the holding of elections itself is guaranteed by the constitution every five years, on the other hand, the constitution has not regulated the postponement of elections if the country is in danger or an emergency. So, in the future, there will need to be constitutional amendments and new regulations that further widen the spectrum of dangerous or emergency conditions without forgetting Article 12 of the 1945 Constitution as a consideration
Payment methods for primary health care, specialized (including high-tech) medical care in the compulsory health insurance system: the logic of the most urgent changes in the tariff policy of 2023.
Authors:   Russian Research Institute of Health, Starodubov V. I. , Kadyrov F. N. ,   Russian Research Institute of Health, Obukhova O. V. ,   Russian Research Institute of Health, Mitroshin P. V. ,   Russian Research Institute of Health, Chililov A. M. ,   A. V. Vishnevsky National Medical Research Center of Surgery, Kobyakova O. S. ,   Russian Research Institute of Health
Published: September 2023

The article discusses new methodological approaches to the methods of paying for medical care in the compulsory medical insurance system for 2023, including those approved by recently issued regulatory legal acts, as well as joint recommendations of the Ministry of Health of Russia and the Federal Compulsory Medical Insurance Fund (FOMS). The article analyzes the main reasons for changes in the tariff policy and their expected consequences in terms of increasing the motivation of medical organizations. It is noted that there is a need to revise the remuneration systems of employees of medical organizations (primarily state and municipal) in order to more closely link incentive payments with performance indicators used in determining the amount of payment for medical care, which is intended to become an important motivation tool for improving the availability and quality of primary health care and, as a consequence, reducing the need for specialized medical care. An overview of innovations in the payment of high-tech medical care is given.
Magmatic Native Gold: Composition, Texture, Genesis, and Evolution in the Earth’s Crust
Authors: Berdnikov N.V. , Kepezhinskas P.K. , Nevstruyev V.G. , Krutikova V.O. , Konovalova N.S.
Published: September 2023

—Here we report results of microforms’ studies of native gold and its alloys in igneous rocks, modified to varying degrees by secondary processes. We discuss the composition and occurrence of both the deep-seated magmatic gold-bearing alloys and the products of their transformation under conditions of the upper Earth’s crust. Gold-bearing Kamchatka adakites and ankaramites, Ildeus massif mafic-ultramafic intrusions and adakites from the Stanovoy fold system as well as dacites from the Bolivian Andes were formed during melting of either the suprasubduction mantle wedge or the subducted oceanic crust. In depleted peridotites from the Avachinsky Volcano in Kamchatka as well as suprasubduction ophiolites from Polar Urals, Eastern Sayan and the Western Mediterranean Betic–Rifean belt, the gold-bearing mantle was hybridized by subduction-related melts and high-temperature fluids. Volcanic rocks associated with the Lesser Khingan Fe–Mn deposits and Zolotaya Gora Au deposit in Southern Urals as well as Taragai ultramafic rocks in the South Khingan Range display subduction-related geochemical characteristics. Gold-bearing trachytes in the Virginian Appalachians (USA) represent felsic differentiates of mafic intraplate magmas. We propose that one of the principal forms of gold transport into the upper crustal environments is represented by Cu–Ag–Au alloys, which precipitated from mantle-derived silicate melt enriched in chalcophile and siderophile elements. Such Cu–Ag–Au alloy-rich magmatic rocks can either constitute primary sources of precious metals in the mantle-crust system or serve as geochemical precursors to the formation of native gold assemblages in epithermal and mesothermal ore deposits. Presence of magmatic gold particles in subduction-related igneous rocks and mantle restites hybridized by subduction-derived melts and high-temperature fluids suggest the existence of gold-rich horizons in the Earth’s mantle at depths comparable to typical depths of generation of primary convergent zone and some within-plate magmas.
Externalities of the sanction pressure policy and its consequences for the Russian small and medium business development
Authors: Koroleva E. A.
Published: September 2023

Objective: to analyze the impact of the externalities of the sanctions pressure policy on small and medium-sized enterprises and to develop specific proposals that allow them to adapt to the conditions of uncertainty.

Methods: general scientific methods of systemic, structural and comparative analysis, as well as specific scientific methods (static and graphical analysis, expert assessments).

Results: the analysis was carried out of the externalities of the sanctions pressure policy, which significantly affected the activities of the Russian small and medium-sized enterprises. Among the key factors studied are the disruption of logistics chains, reduction of the customer base, restrictions on monetary transactions, blocking of digital platforms, etc. The special role of this sector in eliminating the imbalances of the country’s economy in a difficult geopolitical situation and economic instability is outlined. It is proposed to investigate ways of adapting small businesses to new economic conditions, taking into account the systematic classification of enterprises in the SME sector. The forecast trends in the development of small and medium-sized firms for the near future are formulated. Based on the analysis of externalities, the author suggests measures to increase the adaptability of enterprises in the studied segment of the economy, which can be used by both representatives of the business community and government agencies.

Scientific novelty: the division of firms into three categories (“kids”, “genetic dwarfs”, “transformers”) and three subgroups (“travelers”, “reorganizers”, “imago”) is proposed; their key functions and ways of adaptation characteristic of each category of enterprises are identified, which made it possible to develop recommendations on improving the adaptability of small and medium-sized enterprises, taking into account their characteristics.

Practical significance:  the main provisions and conclusions of the article can be used in the educational process of educational institutions; in scientifi activities for the development of academic competencies on the functioning of small and medium-sized enterprises; in the work of organizations that make up the infrastructure for the development and support of SMEs; they also contribute to the study of ways and strategies for the entrepreneurship adaptation under exogenous shocks.
A surprising excess of radio emission in extremely stable quasars: a unique clue to jet launching?
Authors: CAI Zhen-Yi , Kang Wen-Yong , Wang Junxian , Wang Haochen , Ren Wen-Ke , Liao Mai , Yuan Feng , Zdziarski Andrzej
Published: September 2023

Quasars are generally divided into jetted radio-loud (RL) and non-jetted radio-quiet (RQ) ones, but why only roughly 10% quasars are radio loud has been puzzling for many decades. Other than jet-induced-phenomena, black hole mass, or Eddington ratio, prominent difference between jetted and non-jetted quasars has scarcely been detected. Here we show that a unique distinction between them and the mystery of jet launching could be disclosed by a surprising excess of radio emission in extremely stable quasars (ESQs, i.e., type 1 quasars with extremely weak variability in UV/optical over 10 years). Specifically, we find that >25% of the ESQs are detected by FIRST/VLASS radio survey, while only ~ 6-8% of its control sample, matched in redshift, luminosity, and Eddington ratio, are radio detected. The excess of radio detection of ESQs has a significance of 4.4σ (99.9995%), and dominantly occurs at intermediate radio loudness with ~ 10 -- 60. The radio detection fraction of ESQs also tends to increase in the ESQ samples selected with more stringent thresholds. Our results reverse the common view that RL quasars are likely more variable in UV/optical due to jet contamination. New clue/challenge posed by our findings imminently demands extensive follow-up observations to probe the nature of jets in ESQs, and theoretical studies on the link between jet launching and ESQs. Moreover, the discovery makes ESQs, a population which has never been explored, unique targets in the blooming era of time domain astronomy, like their opposite counterparts of quasars exhibiting extreme variability or changing-look feature.
Dissection of salt tolerance in cotton germplasm by analyzing agro-physiological traits and ERF genes expression
Authors: Zafar Muhammad Mubashar , Chattha Waqas Shafqat , Ali Arfan , Parvaiz Aqsa , Amin Javaria , Shakeel Amir , Saleem Huma , Shoukat Abbas , Ercisli Sezai , Razzaq Abdul , Qiao Fei
Published: September 2023

The development of genotypes that can tolerate high levels of salt is crucial for the efficient use of salt-affected land and for enhancing crop productivity worldwide. Therefore, incorporating salinity tolerance is a critical trait that crops must possess. Salt resistance is a complex character, controlled by multiple genes both physiologically and genetically. To examine the genetic foundation of salt tolerance, we assessed 16 F1 hybrids and their eight parental lines under normal and salt stress (15 dS m− 1) conditions. Under salt stress conditions significant reduction was observed for plant height (PH), bolls/plant (NBP), boll weight (BW), seed cotton yield (SCY), lint% (LP), fiber length (FL), fiber strength (FS), potassium to sodium ratio (K+/Na+), potassium contents (K+), total soluble proteins (TSP), carotenoids (Car) and chlorophyll contents. Furthermore, the mean values for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), sodium contents (Na+), catalase (CAT), superoxidase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and fiber fineness (FF) were increased under salt stress. Moderate to high heritability and genetic advance was observed for NBP, BW, LP, SCY, K+/Na+, SOD, CAT, POD, Car, TSP, FL, and FS. Mean performance, and multivariate analysis of 24 cotton genotypes based on various agro-physiological and biochemical parameters suggested that the genotypes FBS-Falcon, Barani-333, JSQ-White Hold, Ghauri, along with crosses FBS- FALCON × JSQ- White Hold, FBG-222 × FBG-333, FBG-222 × Barani-222, and Barani-333 × FBG-333 achieved the maximum values for K+/Na+, K+, TSP, POD, Chlb, CAT, Car, LP, FS, FL, PH, NBP, BW, and SCY under salt stress and declared as salt resistant genotypes. The above-mentioned genotypes also showed relatively higher expression levels of Ghi-ERF-2D.6 and Ghi-ERF-7A.6 at 15 dSm− 1 and proved the role of these ERF genes in salt tolerance in cotton. The findings suggest that these genotypes have the potential for the development of salt-tolerant cotton varieties with desirable fiber quality traits.
­Ultrasonic implant site preparation vs conventional drilling: in vitro evaluation of implant site diameter.
Authors: Lahoud Pierre , Nasr Joseph Abi , Menhall Abdallah , Makary Christian
Published: September 2023

Objective
The aim of this study is to evaluate implant site diameter after bony preparation using either conventional drilling (CD) or ultrasonic implant site preparation (UISP).
Materials and Methods
On bovine ribs, 3mm x 10mm implant sites were prepared using two different ultrasonic protocols, UISP1 (n = 16) and UISP2 (n = 16) and a conventional drilling protocol CD (n = 16). Implant sites were then filled with resin and both cortical and cancellous horizontal sections were made in order to measure the bucco-lingual (D1) and the mesio-distal (D2) diameters of each site. Also, implant sites were prepared on bovine ribs following UISP1 (n = 12), UISP2 (n = 12) and CD (n = 12) protocols and final insertion torque (IT) was measured for each preparation. The results were statistically analyzed using the Kruskal Wallis test.
Results
Statistically significant differences were found between UISP1 (mean diameter = 3.161) and CD (mean diameter = 3.012) for D1 (P = 0.041), between UISP1 (mean diameter = 3.328) and CD (mean diameter = 3.039) for D2 (P = 0.001), between UISP1 (mean diameter = 3.328) and UISP2 (mean diameter = 3.005) for D2 (P < 0.001). No statistically significant differences were noted between UISP1 (mean diameter = 3.161) and UISP2 (mean diameter = 2.995) for D1 (p-value = 0.08), between CD (mean diameter = 3.012) and UISP2 (mean diameter = 2.995) for D1 (p-value = 0.290), and between CD (mean diameter = 3.039) and UISP 2 (mean diameter = 3.005) for D2 (p-value = 0.650). A significant difference was noted between UISP1-IT values (mean torque = 17.96 N/cm) and both UISP2-IT values (mean torque = 37.48 N/cm) (P < 0.001) and CD-IT values (mean torque = 40.99 N/cm) (P < 0.001). No statistically significant difference was noted between CD-IT (mean torque = 40.99 Ncm) and UISP2-IT (mean torque = 37.48 Ncm) (p-value = 0.488).
Conclusion
By following proper protocol UISP can be used as precisely as CD to prepare implant bed.
WITHDRAWN: PDCD6 modulates LC3-associated phagocytosis-mediated antimicrobial defense by regulating lactate metabolism
Authors: Li Tianliang , Sun Lulu , Wu Si , Wang Hui , Zhang Tianyu , Zhang Mengyu , Bai Xuepeng , Zhang Xiumei , Li Bingqing , Zhang Cai , Li Yan , Zhou Jun
Published: September 2023

LC3-associated phagocytosis (LAP) is critical in host defense against invading pathogens. Understanding the molecular mechanism in LAP activation could help find better treatments for infectious diseases. This study identified programmed cell death 6 (PDCD6) as a negative regulator of LAP. Lacking PDCD6, both mice and macrophages show enhanced bactericidal activity and LAP formation. Macrophages challenged with bacteria, Zymosan or Pam3CSK4 exhibit increased lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) activity and lactate production. Genetic ablation or pharmacological inhibition of LDHA reduced lactate levels and impaired bactericidal activity in mice and macrophages. Mechanistically, PDCD6 interacts with LDHA to downregulate lactate metabolism, reducing RUBCN lactylation at arginine 33 (K33). Increased RUBCN lactylation in PDCD6-deficient cells promotes its interaction with VPS34, activating signaling and enhancing LAP formation. These findings could contribute to developing innovative and efficient treatments for infectious diseases.
Hyperbolic exciton polaritons in a van der Waals magnet
Authors: Ruta Francesco , Zhang Shuai , Shao Yinming , Moore Samuel , Acharya Swagata , Sun Zhiyuan , Qiu Siyuan , Geurs Johannes , Kim Brian , Fu Matthew , Chica Daniel , Pashov Dimitar , Xu Xiaodong , Xiao Di , Delor Milan , Zhu X-Y. , Millis Andrew , Roy Xavier , Hone James , Dean Cory , Katsnelson Mikhail , Schilfgaarde Mark van , Basov Dmitri
Published: September 2023

Exciton polaritons are quasiparticles of photons coupled strongly to bound electron-hole pairs, manifesting as an anti-crossing light dispersion near an exciton resonance. Highly-anisotropic semiconductors with opposite-signed permittivities along different crystal axes are predicted to host exotic modes called hyperbolic exciton polaritons (HEPs), which permit spatial confinement beyond the material light cone and enhanced density of states. Here, we show the first observational evidence of steady-state HEPs using a cryogenic near-field microscope in the van der Waals magnet chromium sulfide bromide. At low temperature, in the magnetically-ordered state, anisotropic exciton resonances sharpen, driving the permittivity negative along one crystal axis and enabling HEP propagation. Further, we demonstrate coupling of HEPs to excitonic sidebands and increasing exciton spectral weight near the magnetic transitions corresponding to exciton wavefunction delocalization. Our findings open new pathways to nanoscale manipulation of excitons and light, including routes to magnetic, nonlocal, and quantum polaritonics in a light-emitting material.
A Sub-Parsec Supermassive Black Hole Binary Powers Precessing Outflows in NGC 4388
Authors: Muller-Sanchez Francisco , Ruby Mason , Reich Logan , Shaver Skylar , Brown Christian , Hicks Erin , Malkan Matthew
Published: September 2023

Models of hierarchical galaxy formation predict the existence of supermassive black hole binaries (SMBHBs). As two galaxies merge, their respective supermassive black holes (SMBHs) migrate to the center of the merger remnant driven by dynamical friction. Subsequently, they form a gravitationally-bound binary. The binary separations are very small and difficult to image. To date, only one SMBHB has been imaged with a separation of 7.3 pc. Here we report the detection of a possible SMBHB with a separation of 0.02 pc in the galaxy NGC 4388. Using high-resolution observations from the Keck OSIRIS Nearby AGN survey (KONA), we have analyzed the two-dimensional (2D) spatial distribution and kinematics of the stars and the molecular and ionized gas in the central region of NGC 4388. We find that the nearly edge-on galaxy exhibits a nuclear disk of molecular gas which is misaligned by ~15° from the large-scale disk and approaches the orientation of the maser disk at scales <30 pc. To the southwest, an extraplanar outflow of highly-ionized gas is extended along a position angle of 205°. We observe pronounced velocity reversals along the outflow axis, involving shifts in line-of-sight velocities from -180 to +180 km/s, which indicate precession of the kinematic major axis of the outflow. A simple model of a helical outflow precessing around an axis close to the plane of the sky can reproduce the observations. The outflow precesses with an angle of 40° and a precession period of ~1.6 Myr. The launch region lies inside a radius r<0.3 pc, as indicated by the size of an apparently warped maser disk. These results suggest that the precession is caused by the tidal interaction between a SMBHB and a circumbinary disk.
In-plane Hall effect in rutile oxide films induced by the Lorentz force
Authors: Wu Yizheng , Cui Yongwei , Li Zhaoqing , Chen Haoran , Chen Yue , Wu Yunzhuo , Pei Ke , Wu Tong , Xie Nian , Che Renchao , Qiu Xuepeng , Liu Yi , Yuan Zhe
Published: September 2023

The conventional Hall effect is linearly proportional to the field component or magnetization component perpendicular to a film1. Despite the increasing theoretical proposals on the Hall effect to the in-plane field or magnetization in various special systems induced by the Berry curvature2-8, such an unconventional Hall effect has only been experimentally reported in Weyl semimetals and in a heterodimensional superlattice9-12. Here, we report an unambiguous experimental observation of the in-plane Hall effect (IPHE) in centrosymmetric rutile RuO2 and IrO2 single-crystal films under an in-plane magnetic field. The measured Hall resistivity is found to be proportional to the component of the applied in-plane magnetic field along a particular crystal axis and to be independent of the current direction or temperature. Both the experimental observations and theoretical calculations confirm that the IPHE in rutile oxide films is induced by the Lorentz force. Our findings can be generalized to ferromagnetic materials for the discovery of in-plane anomalous Hall effects and quantum anomalous Hall effects. In addition to significantly expanding knowledge of the Hall effect, this work opens the door to explore new members in the Hall effect family.
Conditional Survival with Time of Overall Survival and Disease-free Survival for Mid or Low Locally Advanced Rectal Cancer
Authors: Wang Guancong , Li Jiasen , Zeng Qunzhang , Huang Ying , Guo Yincong
Published: September 2023

Aim To evaluate the changes of conditional survival (CS) for mid or low locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) and to determine how the prognostic factors affecting CS evolve over time.
Methods We analyzed data of 1833 patients from two centers. Kaplan-Meier and multivariate Cox regression were used to calculate conditional disease-free survival (cDFS) and conditional overall survival (cOS). Multivariable Cox regression models were used to calculate proportional hazard ratios (HR) for the prediction of cDFS and cOS.
Funding The 5-year OS and DFS estimates were 83.3% and 78.3%, respectively. Given a 1-, 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-year survivorship, the 5-year cOS rates increased to 83.7%, 85.0%, 85.8%, 89.1%, and 92.6%, respectively. Similarly, given a 1-, 2-, 3-, 4- and 5-year disease-free survivorship, the 5-year cDFS rates increased to 81.8%, 86.0%, 88.3%, 92.3%, and 94.6%, respectively. The impact of well-known prognostic factors on CS estimates relevance changed or even disappeared over time. Whereas distance to the anal verge (DTAV) and neoadjuvant rectal (NAR) score was the most stable and reliable prognostic factors for CS. Independent effects of NAR score (HRs 1.68, 1.85, 2.10, 1.99, 3.38, respectively) and DTAV (HRs 0.48, 0.52, 0.52, 0.47, 0.34, respectively) factors on cOS can be found, at all-time points including baseline, 1, 2, 3, and 4 years. Interestingly, a consistent independent effect of NAR (HRs 1.71, 1.89, 1.83, 1.84, 2.78, respectively) score on cDFS at baseline, 1, 2, 3, and 4 years survived, and DTAV (HRs 0.51, 0.61, 0.62, 0.45, respectively) on cDFS at survived for within 3 years. The stratified analysis revealed that the lower the DTAV or higher the NAR score, the lower the 5-year CS probability over the entire time after surgery, which supports the results of multifactorial Cox regression.
Conclusions CS rates increase over time in LARC patients, especially in patients with long-term survival. Factors of influence may change with prolonged survival, DTAV and NAR score were persistent predictors of long-term prognosis.
Evaluation of a School-based Health Education Program on Hepatitis B prevention practice in Rural South-Western, Nigeria
Authors: Olaoye Titilayo , Osie-Efietie Blessing , Ogunsanmi Ololade O. , Mustapha Adebayo M. , Asekun-Olarinmoye Ifeoluwapo , Atulomah Nnodimele Onuigbo
Published: September 2023

This study employed a quasi-experimental design to assess the effect of a school-based health education program on Hepatitis B prevention practice of 256 selected secondary school students from four schools in Ogun state and randomized into three intervention schools teacher-instructed (E1), peer-directed (E2) and a combination of these two (E3) respectively with a control group (C). The theory-based educational intervention was implemented for six weeks and data analyzed considered baseline and follow-up mean and standard deviation scores of outcome variables of Hepatitis B prevention practice of participants. Statistical analysis of ANOVA and Cohen’s D Effect Size (ES) was used to quantify the effectiveness of the intervention on outcome variables at 5% level of significance.
At baseline, there was no significant difference (p > 0.05) in the mean Hepatitis B prevention practice scores between the four groups E1 (17.21±3.03), E2 (15.57±1.90), E3 (17.90±3.10), and C (15.20±2.44). The means scores of participants in the experimental groups increased significantly between baseline and follow-up among E1 (from 17.2 to 23.2; p < 0.05), E2 (from13.5 to 23.5; p <0.05), E3 (from 17.9 to 25.2; p < 0.05) and control (from 15.2 to 15.3; p > 0.05). The effectiveness of the intervention was evaluated at follow-up by comparing ES of each experimental group thus, 2.17, 95%CI: (1.70-2.64; p <0.02), 2.46, 95%CI: 1.97-2.96; p <0.05), 2.16, 95%CI: (1.69-2.64; p < 0.05) and 0.021, 95%CI: (-0.40-0.44; p >0.05) respectively.
Largely, the participants from E2 showed more improvement in prevention practices than their counters from E1, E3, and control. A combination of teachers and students should be engaged as change agents in schools for Hepatitis B virus infection control.
Cyclical Vomiting Syndrome Complicated with Superior Mesenteric Artery Syndrome: a case report
Authors: Liu Bo , Liu Yang , Yuan Minlan , Zhang Wei
Published: September 2023

Background
Cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a chronic functional gastrointestinal disorder involving the gut-brain axis that is characterized by recurring episodes of nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and interspersed complete normal periods. Superior mesenteric artery syndrome (SMAS) results from a decreased angle between the aorta and the superior mesenteric artery, presenting with duodenal obstruction symptoms such as early satiety, nausea, vomiting, and postprandial epigastric pain. Instances of coexisting entities are rarely documented in the available literature.
Case presentation
A 20-year-old female patient diagnosed with CVS displays an ongoing fear of vomiting and adopts conscious dietary restrictions, leading to severe malnutrition. Consequently, she developed the comorbidity of SMAS. In addition to enteral and parenteral nutritional support, she was administered antiemetic and antianxiety medications and engaged in mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy.
Conclusions
To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of SMAS developing due to CVS. Medical practitioners should be aware of this potential cooccurrence, particularly when a patient with a history of cyclic vomiting syndrome demonstrates significant and swift weight loss. Effectively preventing or managing complications associated with CVS is of paramount importance.
Enhancing COVID-19 Diagnosis Accuracy and Transparency with eXplainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) Techniques
Authors: Malik Sonika , Aggarwal Tanay
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has strained global healthcare systems, necessitating efficient screening tools for the timely identification and management of SARS-CoV-2 infections. This research proposes a novel approach that utilizes machine learning and XAI techniques to create an effective screening tool for COVID-19 [1]. By training a prediction model on a dataset of over 50,000 tested individuals, incorporating features like age, sex, contact history, and clinical symptoms, accurate estimation of SARS-CoV-2 infection risk is achieved. Integration of XAI techniques, such as feature importance analysis and decision boundary visualization, enhances transparency, improves accuracy, and fosters confidence among healthcare professionals [2-5]. The objective is to address comprehension challenges and effectively leverage diverse knowledge for diagnosis, empowering global medical staff with a valuable tool for triaging patients and optimizing resource allocation. This research significantly contributes to combating the COVID-19 pandemic and enhancing healthcare systems' resilience against similar challenges.
Big data-based artificial intelligence for efficient digital screen usage management among Chinese children and adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Wang Jifang , Shen Yang , Zhao Jing , Wang Xiaoying , Chen Zhi , Han Tian , Huang Yangyi , Wang Yuliang , Zhao Wuxiao , Wu Yuchen , Wen Bo , Hong Yongting , Zhou Xingtao , Xu Ye
Published: September 2023

This study investigated screen-time behaviors of Chinese children and adolescents and the efficacy of artificial intelligence (AI)-based alerts in screen-time behavior correction. Data from 6,716 children and adolescents with AI-enhanced tablets that recorded behavioral and light environment data during use were analyzed. The mean daily screen time was 67.10 ± 48.26 min. The screen time of junior-high-school students exceeded 1.5 h (92.50 ± 75.06 min) and that of school-aged participants exceeded 4 h per week. Children younger than two years used tablets for more than 45 min per day. Learning accounted for more than 50% of participants’ screen time. The distance alarm was triggered 807,355 times. Some participants (31.03%, 2061/6643) used tablets for 1 h at an average distance < 50 cm. Over 70% of the participants used the tablet under an illuminance < 300 lx during the day and more than 60% under an illuminance < 100 lx at night. More than 85% of the participants’ ambient light exceeded 4,000 K color temperature at night. The screen time of school-aged participants was longer than that of preschool-aged children. The recorded illumination was insufficient and was paired with a high color temperature at night. AI can effectively remind children and adolescents to correct unhealthy behaviors during screen time.
The level of IL-8 in TMERA cells as a biomarker for hormonotherapy in thymoma
Authors: Yu xintao , Yu Lei , Cui Jian , Du Xin , Gao Xiang , Yang Xingguo
Published: September 2023

Thymoma is the most common type of neoplasm in the anterior mediastinum. However, it can be challenging to differentiate thymoma from other anterior mediastinum tumors in this region through imaging examinations. Therefore, the identification of a reliable, unique characteristic for the further study of thymoma is crucial. Our study confirms an increase in TEMRA cells in type B thymoma and suggests that the level of IL-8 in TEMRA cells may be a biomarker indicating hormonotherapy can be an effective treatment for patients with type B1 and B2 thymoma patients.
Impact of Motor Task Conditions on End-point Kinematics and Trunk Movements during Goal-directed Arm Reach
Authors: Kim Bokkyu , Girnis Jaimie , Sweet Vanessa , Nobiling Tobias , Agag Tarek , Neville Christopher
Published: September 2023

Task conditions significantly impact human motor control. We investigated how task type, difficulty, and constraints influence the kinematics of goal-directed arm reaching. Non-disabled young adults performed two distinct goal-directed arm reaching tasks: pointing and picking up an object with chopsticks. These tasks were carried out under various conditions, including constrained and unconstrained elbow extension and two different task difficulties. We collected kinematic data using a 3-D motion capture system and analyzed the effects of different task conditions on kinematic variables using linear mixed-effects regression analysis. Our findings revealed statistically significant differences in kinematics between the two tasks. Arm reaching during the picking-up task was slower and exhibited jerkier movements compared to the pointing task. Additionally, when arm reaching was performed with constrained elbow extension, it led to slower and jerkier movements, with an increased involvement of trunk movements compared to the unconstrained condition. These findings show that complex manipulative motor tasks requiring higher hand dexterity necessitate feedback-based control of arm reaching, but simple pointing tasks requiring less hand dexterity do not. In conclusion, our study sheds light on the influence of task conditions on goal-directed arm reaching kinematics and provides valuable insights into the motor control strategies involved in different tasks.
Identification of the Tagetes erecta Linn. Extract’s potentials against influenza A based on bioinformatics analysis and experimental study
Authors: Kim Minjee , Nowakowska Aleksandra , Kim Jaebum , Kim Young Bong
Published: September 2023

Background: Tagetes erecta Linn. (TE) is used to treat cardiovascular, renal, and gastrointestinal diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the active compounds and targets of the TE extract in influenza A infections.
Method: Active compounds and targets of the TE extract were identified using network pharmacology. Pathway and target studies were conducted using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) gene difference, and molecular docking analyses. In vitro validation of the TE extract was performed using antiviral and plaque reduction assays.
Results: From 6 compounds, 95 active targets, 887 influenza-associated target genes, and 14 intersecting core targets were identified. A compound–target network was constructed and two compounds (lutein and beta-carotene) were identified. Protein–protein interaction and GEO analysis revealed interleukin (IL)-6 as a hub gene. In vitro experimental results revealed that the TE extract exerted therapeutic rather than protective effects.
Conclusions: Overall, we identified the two main active compounds in the TE extract, lutein and beta-carotene, and IL-6 as an important target associated with influenza. Moreover, our findings confirmed the activity of the TE extract against the influenza A virus.
Mechanical loading-induced change of bone homeostasis is mediated by PGE2-driven hypothalamic interoception
Authors: Cao Xu , Gao Feng , HU QIMIAO , Qi Cheng , Wan Mei , Ficke James , Zheng Junying
Published: September 2023

Bone is a mechanosensitive tissue and undergoes constant remodeling to adapt to the mechanical loading environment. However, it is unclear whether the signals of bone cells in response to mechanical stress are processed and interpreted in the brain. In this study, we found that the hypothalamus of the brain regulates bone remodeling and structure by perceiving bone PGE2 concentration in response to mechanical loading. Bone PGE2 levels are in proportion to their weight bearing. When weight bearing changes in the tail-suspension mice, the PGE2 concentrations in bones change in line with their weight bearing changes. Deletion of Cox2 or Pge2 in the osteoblast lineage cells or knockout Ep4 in sensory nerve blunts bone formation in response to mechanical loading. And sensory denervation also significantly reduces mechanical load-induced bone formation. Moreover, mechanical loading induces CREB phosphorylation in the hypothalamic ARC region to inhibit sympathetic TH expression in the PVN for osteogenesis. Finally, we show that elevated PGE2 is associated with ankle osteoarthritis (AOA) and pain. Together, our data demonstrate that in response to mechanical loading, skeletal interoception occurs in the form of hypothalamic processing of PGE2-driven peripheral signaling to maintain physiologic bone homeostasis, while chronically elevated PGE2 can be sensed as pain during AOA and implication of potential treatment.
Quantifying the adverse effects of long COVID on individuals’ health after infection: A Propensity Score Matching design study
Authors: Miao Yudong , Ruizhe Ren , Shen Zhanlei , Li Yi , Zhang Wanliang , Bai Junwen , Zhu Dongfang , Zhang Jingbao , Guo Dan , Tarimo Clifford , Liu Rongmei , Zhao Qiuping , Hu Jianping , Zhou Xue , Dong Wenyong
Published: September 2023

This study assessed the prevalence and influencing factors of long COVID, and measured the difference in health status between long COVID and non-long COVID cases. A total of 3165 COVID-19 patients (53.11% female) completed the questionnaire and provided data on socio-demographic characteristics, lifestyles and health status. The total score of lifestyle assignment ranged from 5 to 21 points. Health status was assessed through self-reported, and the score ranged from 0 to 100 points. The criteria of “persistent symptoms or health problems after 4 weeks (28 days) of COVID-19 infection” issued by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was used to assess whether the individuals had long COVID. The answers revealed that 9.73% of patients were identified long COVID. The health status scores of the long COVID cases 74.79 (95% CI: 72.75 ~ 76.82) was lower than that of the non-long COVID cases 81.06 (95% CI: 80.50 ~ 81.61). Never focused on mental decompression was a common risk factor for the health status of long and non-long COVID cases (β=-25.40, 95% CI: -38.82~-11.98; β=-4.86, 95% CI: -7.51~-2.21). The total lifestyle scores were identified as a mediating factor long COVID infection on individuals’ health, with a mediating effect of 0.2249 (95%CI: 0.0774 ~ 0.4096). In conclusion, the proportion of long COVID cases was low, but they were significantly worse off in health. This study proved that healthy lifestyles including mental decompression should be considered as the core strategy of primary prevention when the epidemic of COVID-19 is still at a low level.
Threshold Sampling
Authors: Rass Stefan , Jakobitsch Max-Julian , Haan Stefan , Hiebler Moritz
Published: September 2023

We consider the problem of sampling elements with some desired property from a large set, without testing the property of interest, but with the (probabilistic) assurance to have at least one match among the random sample. Like in ranked set sampling, we consider an infinite population under study, whose properties of interest are too expensive and/or time-consuming to measure. Unlike RSS, we are void of a ranking mechanism, so our sampling is done entirely blind. We show how it is nonetheless doable to assure, with controllably large likelihood, to either have at least one of the interesting elements in a random sample, or, contrarily, sample with the likewise assurance of not having one of the interesting elements in the sample. Our technique utilizes density bounds for distributions and threshold functions from random graph theory.