bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seroprevalence and Determinants of Transfusion Transmissible Infections among Blood Donors in a Municipality in Ghana; A Three-year Retrospective Study
Authors: Sosu Solomon Quarshie , Darfour-Oduro Sandra A.
Published: September 2024

Background: The transmission of transfusion transmissible infections (TTIs) remains a concern in Ghana. This study sought to determine the seroprevalence of TTI and associated factors among blood donors in Ashaiman Polyclinic.
Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study design was employed using secondary data from Ashaiman Polyclinic Blood Bank records from January 2020 to December 2022. The data were analyzed using STATA software version 17 (STATA Corporation Inc. Colorado, United States).
Results: A 10.1% seroprevalence of TTIs was found among blood donors. The results showed a decrease in the TTI seroprevalence from 11.7% in 2020 to 9.6% in 2021 and 9.2% in 2022. The prevalence rates were 4.9% for HBsAg, 1.5% for HCV, and 4.0% for syphilis. Female donors were more likely (AOR = 3.47 [95% CI = 1.41 – 8.54], p < 0.01) to be diagnosed with syphilis. Blood donors > 51 years were also more likely (AOR =20.20 [95% CI = 0.80 - 48.97]) to be diagnosed with hepatitis B than donors < 20 years. There were 90.0% lower odds of having a hepatitis C diagnosis among blood donors with a tertiary education than among those with a primary education (AOR = 0.10 [95% CI = 0.02 - 0.46], p <0.01).
Conclusion: Blood donor age, sex, and education level were significant predictors of TTIs.
Understanding is Compression
Authors: Li Ming , Li Ziguang , Huang Chao , Wang Xuliang , Hu Haibo , Wyeth Cole , Bu Dongbo , Yu Quan , Gao Wen , Liu Xingwu
Published: September 2024

Modern data compression methods are slowly reaching their limits after 80 years of research, millions of papers, and wide range of applications. Yet, the extravagant 6G communication speed requirement raises a major open question for revolutionary new ideas of data compression.

We have previously shown all understanding or learning are compression, under reasonable assumptions. Large language models (LLMs) understand data better than ever before. Can they help us to compress data?

The LLMs may be seen to approximate the uncomputable Solomonoff distribution. Therefore, under this new uncomputable paradigm, we present LMCompress. LMCompress shatters all previous lossless compression algorithms, doubling the lossless compression ratios of JPEG-XL for images, FLAC for audiosshatters，and H264 for videos, and quadrupling the compression ratio of bz2 for texts. The better a large model understands the data, the better LMCompress compresses.
Cell-based therapies reverse the heart failure-altered right ventricular proteome
Authors: Makkaoui Nour , Prasad Vidhya , Bagchi Pritha , Carmona Tiffany , Li Ke , Latham Olivia , Zhang Yuanyuan , Lee Jingyun , Furdui Cristina , Maxwell Joshua
Published: September 2024

Background Congenital heart defects can lead to right ventricular (RV) pressure-overload and heart failure. Cell-based therapies, including mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and c-kit positive cells (CPCs) have been studied clinically as options to restore heart function in disease states. Many studies have indicated these cells act through paracrine mechanisms to prevent apoptosis, promote cellular function, and regulate gene/protein expression. We aimed to determine the proteomic response of diseased hearts to cell therapyMethods We utilized an animal model of RV pressure overload created by banding the pulmonary artery (PAB). Two weeks post-banding, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and 3 populations of CPCs (nCPCs, cCPCs, ES-CPCs) were delivered to the RV free wall. RV function and cellular retention were measured for four weeks post-injection, at which point hearts were extracted and the RV was excised for liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. Resulting RV proteomes were compared and analyzed using systems biology and bioinformatics.Results Proteomic profiling identified 1156 total proteins from the RV, of which 5.97% were significantly changed after PAB. This disease-altered proteome was responsive to cellular therapy, with 72% of the PAB-altered proteome being fully or partially reversed by MSC therapy. This was followed by nCPCs (54%), ES-CPCs (52%), and cCPCs (39%). Systems biology and bioinformatics analysis showed MSC, nCPC, or ES-CPC cell therapy is associated with a decrease in predicted adverse cardiac effects. We also observed an effect of cell therapy on the non-altered RV proteome, however, this was associated with minor predicted pathological endpoints.Conclusions Our data indicate MSCs, ES-CPCs, and nCPCs significantly reverse the PAB-altered proteome towards a pre-disease state. These results indicate cell-based therapies show promise in improving RV function after pressure overload through partial restoration of the disease-altered cardiac proteome.
A Novel Algorithm to Detect and Prevent SQL Injection Attacks for Web Applications using Query Comparison Technique
Authors: Chowdhury Jayanto Kumar , Yadav Dilip Kumar , P.V.S Chandramouli
Published: September 2024

SQL Injection attacks (SQLiAs) have gained popularity among hackers since they can create massive impacts on digital platforms. SQLiAs may penetrate the security frameworks and can modify or destroy underlying databases. These attacks may steal valuable or/and confidential information from database-driven applications. It is therefore necessary to protect web applications from SQLiA attacks. Automatic SQLiAs detection and prevention mechanism is required to protect internet exposed applications from SQLiAs vulnerabilities. A novel algorithm is proposed based on query comparison logic to detect the SQL injection vulnerabilities in database-driven applications. This method compares the structure of design-time and run-time queries to identify the presence of SQL injection vulnerabilities. The proposed algorithm should be able to detect and prevent different types of SQL injection attacks like Boolean, tautology, piggybacked queries, illegal queries, union queries, stored procedure etc. This algorithm should be flexible enough so that developers can integrate it with the existing vulnerable web application and it works as a shield to protect the legacy web applications from SQL injection attacks. The proposed approach tested on GITHUB open source data set and the result is very satisfactory with an accuracy of 93% to 98%.
Design and Fabrication of Nanocomposite Filters for Dairy Industry Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Talafha Atheer , Abu-Dalo Muna , Albiss Borhan Aldeen , Al-Nabulsi Anas
Published: September 2024

The dairy industry produces a significant volume of effluents that contain various pollutants, which causes environmental issues. In this study, the fabrication and performance of nanocomposite filters including activated carbon (AC), calcium alginate (CA), and nanosilica were investigated for the treatment of dairy industry wastewater. This nanocomposite filled a major gap in the use of nanocomposite for dairy wastewater treatment in a simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach. The nanoparticles were synthesized using sand extraction in an environmentally friendly approach with a size of 30–45 nm. Several techniques such as X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-VIS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to characterize the materials. Furthermore, the nanocomposite filter performance and efficiency in removing chemical oxygen demand (COD) were assessed through batch experiments. Batch experiments were used to investigate optimum conditions such as the contact time, pH, and nanosilica dosage. The results showed that the nanocomposite filters effectively treat the dairy wastewater, where the percentage of COD removal reached 99.7%. However, the adsorption isotherm, kinetic, and thermodynamic studies were carried out and the best-fitted models of isotherm, and kinetic models were Langmuir, and pseudo-second-order reaction, respectively. The thermodynamic reaction of this study is related to being endothermic. Results were discussed to reveal that the integration of the Water-Food-Environment (WEFE) NEXUS was successfully achieved.
Heterogeneous effects of Agricultural insurance on Agricultural Green development: Evidence from Sub national economies of India
Authors: Malik Mohd , Tiwari Ashu , Hemat Waheedullah
Published: September 2024

The current paper aims to assess the relative competitiveness of agricultural green development across 27 Indian states and explore the factors influencing this development. Given India's significant role as a global producer of various crops such as rice, wheat, sugarcane, cotton, and pulses, and with approximately 43.96 percent of the labor force engaged in agriculture, the sector's performance is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The analysis of the green development index reveals that states like Uttar Pradesh demonstrate higher green competitiveness, attributed to factors such as irrigation infrastructure and a higher proportion of insured farmland. Conversely, states like Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Punjab exhibit lower levels of green competitiveness due to their elevated consumption of fertilizers and pesticides. To understand the determinants of agricultural green development competitiveness, Quantile regression has been employed. The findings highlight a positive relationship between agricultural green development (the endogenous variable) and several explanatory factors. These include the extent of land insured, per capita power availability, the presence of bank branches in rural areas, and an increase in crop intensity. Furthermore, employing the Dumitrescu and Hurlin (2012) panel Granger causality test reveals that economic growth at the state level in India precedes and influences agricultural green development. This suggests a dynamic relationship wherein economic progress fosters advancements in agricultural sustainability.
Transcriptome profiles of leaves and roots of Brassica napus L. in response to antimony stress
Authors: Liu Xianjun , You Liang , Yu Wencong , Yuan Yuhui , Zhang Wei , Yan Mingli , Zheng Yu , Duan Renyan , Meng Guiyuan , Chen Yong , Liu Zhongsong , Xiang Guohong
Published: September 2024

Antimony (Sb), a non-essential heavy metal, exerts severe toxic effects on the growth and development of plants. This study investigated the response of Brassica napus to 75 mg/L Sb(III) stress under hydroponic conditions, focusing on Sb accumulation, physiological indexes, and transcriptome sequencing. Sb accumulation in six B. napus varieties ranged from 199.73 to 561.42 mg/kg. Enzymatic activities (SOD, POD, CAT) and MDA content showed initial increases followed by declines under varying Sb treatments. Transcriptomic analysis identified 8,802 genes in root tissues and 13,612 genes in leaf tissues responsive to Sb stress, predominantly involved in oxidative stress responses, glutathione metabolism, plant hormone signaling, ABC transporters, and MAPK pathways. Upregulation of antioxidant-related genes like GPX2, APX2, PER34, and GSTU4 in root tissues correlated with physiological index changes, while photosynthesis-related genes were largely downregulated in leaf tissues. This study provides crucial insights into B. napus's response mechanisms to Sb stress and highlights its potential for phytoremediation efforts.
Impact of finger–ball slip on baseball pitching performance
Authors: Yamaguchi Takeshi , Suzuki Souta , Suzuki Shinnosuke , Nishi Toshiaki , Fukuda Takehiro , Nasu Daiki
Published: September 2024

This study aimed to investigate the finger-ball slip distance in baseball pitching under different finger–ball friction conditions and to demonstrate how slippage affects pitching performance. 6 experienced pitchers were instructed to throw 4-seam fastballs at approximately 130 km/h toward a target behind the home base. The finger–ball friction conditions varied and included no application, water application, rosin powder application, and pine resin application. The finger-ball slip distance was estimated from images of the fingertips and ball during the ball release process captured by a high-speed camera (2000 frames/s). The sliding distance was significantly affected by the finger–ball friction condition. In the ball release process, except for the water application condition, the ball was released by hooking the fingertips on the seam, and the ball slid against the fingers. However, in the water application condition, slippage occurred throughout the ball release process. The slip distance was negatively correlated with the ball speed and ball spin rate and positively correlated with the horizontal and vertical ball arrival locations. Our findings will provide new insights into the understanding of how a ball is released in baseball pitching under different friction conditions and will lead to improvements in pitching performance.
Organic inputs and L-phenylalanine amino acid impacts on yield and essential oil compounds of sage (Salvia officinalis L.) under different soil moisture conditions
Authors: Hasanabadi Safoura , Ardakani M. Reza , Pirbalouti Abdollah Ghasemi , Paknejad Farzad , Habibi Davoud
Published: September 2024

To distinguish the impacts of soil moisture conditions and the foliar spraying with an amino acid as affected by two organic inputs on the dry matter yield and volatile oil of sage (Salvia officinalis L.) at the early flowering stage, a field experiment was done according to a split-plot in time and place design in West of Iran in two experimental years. Experimental treatments were two irrigation frequency levels [optimum or irrigation at field capacity (F.C.) and reduced irrigation or irrigation at 50% F.C.] as the main plot, and in subplots: organic inputsin three levels including control (without amendment), arbuscular mycorrhizal fugi (AMF), and cow dung manure, and also the foliar spraying of L-phenylalanine amino acid at four levels: negative control (non-spraying), positive control (with distilled water as solvent), and foliar spraying with 25 and 50% L-phenylalanine. Results indicated that the basic compounds of the volatile oil from sage were oxygenated monoterpenes, including 1,8-cineole, camphor, α-thujone, and β-thujone. Generally, the highest values of these oxygenated monoterpenes were obtained from optimum irrigation and foliar spraying with amino acids (50% L-phenylalanine) under an organic farming system, which significantly influenced the quantity and quality of the biologically active compound of sage. In addition, the highest value of dry matter yield (972.97 g m− 2) was observed in the second experimental year in the interaction of 50% L-phenylalanine × 100% F.C. × cow dung manure, and also 943.52 g m− 2, was seen in the first year in the 50% L-phenylalanine × 100% F.C. × mycorrhizal symbiosis. Generally, the foliar spray of amino acids under organic inputs (AMF and cow dung manure), and their interaction could ameliorate the dry matter yield and essential oil compounds of sage in environmentally friendly agriculture conditions.
Escin induces PANoptosis of Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma in tumor microenvironment by targeting PTGS2
Authors: Zhang Qian , Wang Yulong , Hu Wensi , Liu Ju , chen Zhao , Tian Hu , Tian Hui
Published: September 2024

Background
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is known as the “King of Cancer” and has a low survival rate. The occurrence and development of PDAC are complex biological processes. Tumor microenvironment (TME) surrounding pancreatic cancer cells is a key determinant of tumor growth, metastatic potential, and treatment resistance. These PDAC complex properties indicate that a single pathway cannot inhibit tumor growth.
Purpose
Escin, a natural triterpene saponin extracted from plants, has been demonstrated to exert anticancer effects in various cancer cell models. In current study, we aim to investigate the effects of Escin on PDAC in TME and explore its potential molecular mechanisms.
Methods and Results
We evaluated cell migration, invasion, clonogenicity, and cell cycle of PDAC, and found that it has anti-PDAC effects compared with Gemcitabine. To understand the mechanism of Escin, we found that Escin can induce PANoptosis of PDAC in the tumor microenvironment, increase the release of reactive oxygen species(ROS), and change the mitochondrial membrane potential. To further illustrate the mechanism, we used bioinformatics analysis and found that PTGS2 is one of the targets of Escin treated PDAC, and high expression of PTGS2 is associated with poor prognosis. To further explore the downstream of PTGS2, we used Celecoxib for comparison. Our results suggest that both Escin and Celecoxib can inhibit the expression of PTGS2. Additionally, the anti-PDAC effect is related to the PTGS2/STAT3/ERK signaling axis.
Conclusions
Escin can inhibit PDAC growth, block cell cycle and promote PANoptosis. These biological processes may be related to the release of ROS, changes of mitochondrial membrane potential, and downregulation of the PTGS2/STAT3/ERK pathways.
A Comprehensive Comparative Study of Individual ML Models and Ensemble Strategies for Network Intrusion Detection Systems
Authors: Bibers Ismail , Arreche Osvaldo , Abdallah Mustafa
Published: September 2024

The escalating frequency of intrusions in networked systems has spurred the exploration of new research avenues in devising artificial intelligence (AI) techniques for intrusion detection systems (IDS). Various AI techniques have been used to automate network intrusion detection tasks, yet each model possesses distinct strengths and weaknesses. Selecting the optimal model for a given dataset can pose a challenge, necessitating the exploration of ensemble methods to enhance generalization and applicability in network intrusion detection. This paper addresses this gap by conducting a comprehensive evaluation of diverse individual models and both simple and advanced ensemble methods for network IDS. We introduce an ensemble learning framework tailored for assessing individual models and ensemble methods in network intrusion detection tasks. Our framework encompasses the loading of input datasets, training of individual models and ensemble methods, and the generation of evaluation metrics. Furthermore, we incorporate all features across individual models and ensemble techniques. The study presents results for our framework, encompassing 14 methods, including various bagging, stacking, blending, and boosting techniques applied to multiple base learners such as decision trees, neural networks, and among others. We evaluate the framework using two distinct network intrusion datasets, RoEduNet-SIMARGL2021 and CICIDS-2017, each possessing unique characteristics. Additionally, we categorize AI models based on their performances on our evaluation metrics and via their confusion matrices. Our assessment demonstrates the efficacy of learning across most setups explored in this study. Furthermore, we contribute to the community by releasing our source codes, providing a foundational ensemble learning framework for network intrusion detection.
Comparative Study of Midterm Outcomes between Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass (RYGB), Diverted One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (D-OAGB), and One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB)
Authors: Masry Mohamed El , Rahman Islam Abdul , Elshal Mohamed , Maher Ahmed
Published: September 2024

Purpose
Diverted one anastomosis gastric bypass (D-OAGB) is a new procedure that entails performing Roux-en-Y diversion during OAGB to preclude post-OAGB bile reflux. This study aimed to compare the mid-term outcomes of Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) and OAGB versus D-OAGB.
Methods
This is a retrospective study that encompassed the analysis of data from patients undergoing bypass surgeries from 2015 to May 2021. The patients’ data until 2 years of follow-up were compared.
Results
This study included 140 patients who underwent OAGB (n = 64), RYGB (n = 24), and D-OAGB (n = 52). In the OAGB, RYGB, and D-OAGB groups, complication rates were 3.1%, 8.3%, and 5.8%, respectively. At the 3-month and 6-month follow-ups, the OAGB and D-OAGB groups showed statistically significant higher percentage of excess weight loss (EWL%). Otherwise, the weight measures and weight loss outcome were comparable among the three groups in the other follow-up visits (p > 0.05). There was a significantly lower number of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) remission cases and a higher number of de novo GERD cases in the OAGB group.
Conclusion
D-OAGB demonstrated favorable outcomes, including lower early adverse events and superior weight loss results in the first 6 months post-surgery when compared to RYGB. The D-OAGB group also showed higher rates of GERD remission and lower de novo GERD occurrence than OAGB. Further research is warranted to validate these findings and expand our understanding of this innovative surgical approach.
Factors influencing walking practice among urban residents before and after the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Park Jeongsun , Shon Changwoo
Published: September 2024

Background
Walking is vital for urban residents' health, but the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly altered daily life and walking practices. This study examinedthe factors influencing walking practices before and after COVID-19 at individual and community levels to understand the pandemic's impact on health behaviors and inform future public health strategies.
Methods
Secondary data from Korea's Community Health Survey (2018–2021) were analyzed, focusing on adults aged 19 and older in Busan Metropolitan City. Multilevel regression analysis was conducted on a total of 54,092 participants, and IBM SPSS Statistics 27.0 was used for statistical analysis. For the multilevel regression analysis, individual-level factors included demographic and social characteristics, health behavior, and subjective perceptions of the community. Community-level factors included urban parks, pedestrian paths, vehicular roads, public and private sports facilities, traditional markets, and social network difficulty.
Results
At the individual level, walking decreased among women and overall from 0.98 (95% CI: 0.97–0.99) before COVID-19 to 0.92 (95% CI: 0.91–0.93) after COVID-19 but increased among those aged 65 and older from 0.96 (95% CI: 0.94–0.99) to 1.05 (95% CI: 1.02–1.08). Subjective health status declined from 1.10 (95% CI: 1.08–1.12) to 1.05 (95% CI: 1.03–1.07). Obesity (OR=0.98, 95% CI: 0.96–1.00) and depression (OR=0.93, 95% CI: 0.90–0.96) were associated with lower walking, while individuals with one chronic disease (OR=1.04, 95% CI: 1.02–1.06) and smokers (OR=1.07, 95% CI: 1.04–1.09) walked more. Neighbors’ trust (OR=1.04, 95% CI: 1.02–1.06) and neighborhood safety (OR=1.03, 95% CI: 1.00–1.06) positively influenced walking. At the community level, walking increased with more pedestrian paths before and after COVID-19. Traditional markets positively influenced walking before the pandemic (OR=1.01, 95% CI: 1.00–1.01. Social network difficulties were influenced bylower walking (OR=0.84, 95% CI: 0.77–0.93).
Conclusions
The study reveals significant changes in walking practices before and after COVID-19, influenced by individual factors such as sex, age, health status, and community factors like pedestrian paths, traditional markets, and social network difficulties. These insights highlight the need for targeted public health strategies to promote physical activity during global health crises.
A Reinforcement learning-Based GWO-RNN approach for Energy Efficiency in Data Centers by Minimizing Virtual Machine Migration
Authors: Parsafar Parsa
Published: September 2024

In the era of exponential data growth, data centers play a critical role in providing reliable and efficient computing resources. However, the energy consumption of these facilities has become a significant concern, driving the need for innovative solutions to enhance energy efficiency. This paper presents a novel approach to minimizing virtual machine (VM) migrations in data centers, thereby reducing energy consumption. Our model leverages a Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) optimized with a Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) to predict energy consumption and preemptively manage workloads. By incorporating this RNN, our model effectively anticipates the energy consumption of future, leading to make the best decision to migrate the VM or not. Furthermore, energy consumption is monitored in real-time to identify overloading and underloading of VMs. The reinforcement GWO-RNN framework adapts dynamically to changing workloads, ensuring optimal resource allocation and reducing the frequency of energy-intensive VM migrations. Experimental results demonstrate a significant reduction in energy consumption and improved efficiency in data center operations, showcasing the potential of this approach for sustainable computing.
Electrode-electrolyte interactions on oxide surfaces: the crucial role of surface redox chemistry
Authors: Mom Rik V. , Deka Nipon , Bernsmeier Denis , Jones Travis , Irtem Erdem , Trzesniowski Hanna , Louisia Sheena , Kolmeier Kees E. , Gorgoi Mihaela , Zeller Patrick
Published: September 2024

The electric double layer (EDL) formed by ions at the electrode-electrolyte interface is a fundamental component of any electrochemical system, ranging from batteries to fuel cells and electrolyzers1. At the atomic level, the behavior of the EDL varies greatly with the choice of electrode, electrolyte, and conditions2,3. However, it is thought to follow one general rule analogous to a capacitor4,5: low electrode potentials lead to a negative electrode surface charge which attracts cations to the EDL, whereas high potentials lead to a positive surface charge and anion attraction. Here, we show that this most basic rule does not apply for the oxide-electrolyte interface. Using an interface-sensitive X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XAS) approach, we show that increasing the electrode potential attracts cations and repels anions at the IrO2-electrolyte interface. We show that this behavior is driven by the surface redox chemistry of the oxide, which dictates the surface charge of the electrode by modulating the surface electrophilicity. Our findings rationalize the cation-dependent performance trends observed for oxide electrodes6–9, paving the way to exploit them in electrolyte engineering.
Behavioral regression in shank3Δex4-22 mice during early adulthood corresponds to cerebellar granule cell glutamatergic synaptic changes
Authors: Kshetri Rajaram , Beavers James , Hyde Romana , Ewa Roseline , Schwertman Amber , Porcayo Sarahi , Richardson Ben
Published: September 2024

Background: Shank3, a gene encoding a synaptic scaffolding protein, is implicated in autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and is disrupted in Phelan-McDermid syndrome (PMS). Despite evidence of regression or worsening of ASD-like symptoms in individuals with PMS, the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. Although shank3 is highly expressed in the cerebellar cortical granule cells, its role in cerebellar function and contribution to behavioral deficits in ASD models are unknown. This study investigates behavioral changes and cerebellar synaptic alterations in shank3Δex4-22 mice at two developmental stages.
Methods: Shank3Δex4-22 wildtype, heterozygous, and homozygous knockout mice lacking exons 4-22 (all functional isoforms) were subjected to a behavioral battery in both juvenile (5-7 weeks old) and adult (3-5 months old) mouse cohorts of both sexes. Immunostaining was used to show the expression of SHANK3 in the cerebellar cortex. Spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) from cerebellar granule cells (CGCs) were recorded by whole-cell patch-clamp electrophysiology.
Results: Deletion of shank3ex4-22 caused deficits in motor function, heightened anxiety, and repetitive behaviors. These genotype-dependent behavioral alterations were more prominent in adult mice than in juveniles. Reduced social preference was only identified in adult shank3Δex4-22 knockout mice and self-grooming was uniquely elevated only in males across both age groups. Immunofluorescence staining indicates the presence of SHANK3 predominantly in the dendrite-containing rosette-like structures in CGCs, colocalizing with presynaptic markers of glutamatergic mossy fiber. Electrophysiological findings identify a parallel relationship between the age-related exacerbation of behavioral impairments and the enhancement of sEPSC amplitude in CGCs.
Limitations: Other behavioral tests of muscle strength (grip strength test), memory (Barnes/water maze), and communication (ultrasonic vocalization), were not performed. Further study is necessary to elucidate how SHANK3 modulates synaptic function at the mossy fiber-granule cell synapse in the cerebellum.
Conclusions: Our findings reveal an age-related exacerbation of behavioral impairments in shank3Δex4-22 mutant mice. These results suggest that SHANK3 may play a role in maintaining glutamatergic receptors and synapses in CGCs, as well as the potential involvement of the cerebellum in ASD.
Thermal Metamaterials. Form factors for effective thermal conductivity calculations.
Authors: Rosa Angela Camacho de la , Esquivel-Sir Raul
Published: September 2024

We present a general derivation of the form factors for two-phase composites needed in the calculation of the effective thermal conductivity. The composite is made of a homogeneous matrix with a random distribution of inclusions with regular shapes, both isotropic. The method is tested with known inclusion geometries such as spheres, ellipsoids, and circular fibers. The form factor for fibers with elliptical cross-sections is also presented. The method is applied to toroidal inclusions, and we show that in this case, it is not possible to relate the effective thermal conductivity to the volume fraction of the inclusions. This paper explores the concept of thermal metamaterials, their properties, fabrication techniques, and potential applications. Despite its regular use, we show that homogenization procedures, such as the Maxwell-Garnett model, are valid only if the system can be described as a separable-coordinate system.
Characterizing Clinical and Hormonal Profiles of Acne in North African Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Authors: Abdessalem Fatma Ben , Ach Taieb , Fetoui Nadia Ghariani , Mraihi Emna , Abdelkarim Asma Ben
Published: September 2024

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the leading endocrine disorder in young women of childbearing age. Dermatological issues, particularly acne, are a major reason for medical consultations. This study seeks to establish the prevalence of PCOS among patients with acne and to compare the metabolic and hormonal clinical characteristics of acne patients with PCOS to those with isolated acne. Patients and Methods: This was a prospective study conducted with analytical objectives at the Endocrinology Department and Dermatology Department of CHU Farhat Hached Sousse. The study included patients seeking treatment for acne from January 2023 to January 2024, divided into two groups: those with confirmed PCOS (G1) and those with isolated acne (G2). All patients underwent hormonal assessment and ovarian ultrasound. Results: We conducted a study involving 212 patients. We found that 65.6% of acne patients had been diagnosed with PCOS. Nodular lesions were significantly more frequent in G1 (p = 0.02). Acne was linked with hirsutism, which was more prevalent in G1 (94.2% G1 vs. 67.1% G2), as well as androgenic alopecia (51% G1 vs. 21.9% G2) (p < 10− 3). G1 showed evidence of biological hyperandrogenism, with a mean testosterone level of 0.72 ± 0.27 ng/mL, significantly higher than in G2. The LH/FSH ratio was greater than 1 in 72.7% of G1 cases, with a notable difference from G2. In our study, acne in G1 appeared to be more severe and was associated with hypertestosteronemia (p = 0.041) and hyperprolactinemia (p = 0.008). According to our results, phenotype A was the most likely to cause severe acne (p = 0.043). Conclusion: Our work is unique in that it brings to light this hidden aspect of the dermatological impact of PCOS, prompting physicians to screen for this endocrine disorder in all adult women seeking acne treatment.
Pharmacokinetics, mass balance, and metabolism of [14C]PLB1004, a selective and irreversible EGFR-TKI in humans
Authors: Liu Donghui , Li Qian , Yan Shu , Zhang Xinyue , Li Weiqiang , Wang Feiyu , Gao Lei , Geng Fei , Zhou Haiyan , Ye Panpan , Zhao Furong , Xue Weizhe , Zhang Peilong , Diao Xingxing , Zhao Wei
Published: September 2024

Purpose
PLB1004, developed by Beijing Avistone Biotechnology Co., Ltd., is a safe, highly selective, and efficient irreversible epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor (EGFR-TKI) employed in treating non-small-cell-lung-cancer (NSCLC). This study investigated its pharmacokinetics, mass balance, and metabolism in 6 healthy Chinese male subjects treated with 160 mg (70 µCi) [14C]PLB1004.
Methods
Following drug administration, samples of blood, urine and feces were collected for quantitative determination of total radioactivity and metabolites were identified through radioactivity detection coupled with UHPLC-MS/MS.
Results
Following drug administration, the median radioactive Tmax was 4.17 h in plasma, with the average t1/2 of PLB1004-related components in plasma of approximately 54.3 h. Over 264 h post-administration, the average cumulative excretion among the six subjects was 95.01% of the administered dose, with 84.71% and 10.30% excreted in feces and urine, respectively. Nine metabolites were characterized and identified and the parent drug PLB1004 was detected in plasma, urine, and feces. Among these metabolites, M689 was the most prevalent one in plasma, urine, and feces, constituting 25.37% of the total plasma radioactivity, and 55.88% and 1.73% of the administrated dose in feces and urine, respectively.
Conclusion
Fecal excretion emerged as PLB1004 excretion route, while urinary excretion via the kidneys served as the secondary route. The primarily metabolic pathways are oxidation, demethylation, dehydrogenation, and cysteine conjugation in humans.
Investigation the role of PAN binder in improving the efficiency of Si/rGO anode material for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Karimi Zahra , Sadeghi Ali , Ghaffarinejad Ali
Published: September 2024

Silicon-based anode materials are considered promising alternatives for conventional graphite anodes of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) due to their eco-friendliness and high specific capacity. But, some drawbacks such as large volume changes and poor conductivity limit their wide usage. Hence, the utilization of graphene-based materials can enhance the electrochemical characteristics of these anodes. Additionally, the polar inherent of polyacrylonitrile (PAN) binder can lead to a great adhesive of active materials which causes better cyclability. Therefore, in this study, a cost-effective and scalable procedure was employed to produce silicon/reduced graphene oxide (Si/rGO) composition via thermal annealing of GO to prepare a suitable anode material with PAN binder for LIBs. Inspired by this structure, a novel anode active material was fabricated which exhibited a high initial discharge capacity of 1247.32 mAh/g at 0.05 C with ~ 99% columbic efficiency.
Genomes and population genomics of Cenococcum geophilum highlight the genetic diversity, evolution, and stress responses of ectomycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Lian Chunlan , Li Chaofeng , Yuan Chao , Shi Yuyu , Geng Qifang , Li Jiali , Matsushita Norihisa , Zhang Shengkui , Ma Jianchao , Tsuruta Momi , Xia Yan , Tao Yuanxun , Zhang Taoxiang , Goto Susumu , Obase Keisuke , Vaario Lu Min , - Siqinbilige , Zhang Hongxiao , Li Jianwen , Wu Jianrong , Kameyama Norikazu , Vélez Jessica M. , Jiao Bo , Zhang Shijie , Schadt Christopher W. , Piapukiew Jittra , Pachit Pawara , Kosolwattana Phobthum , Xu Jianping , Xing Haitao , Wu Songqing
Published: September 2024

Cenococcum geophilum is among the most globally abundant ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi and often dominates the root systems of woody plants, particularly in extreme environments. Therefore, C. geophilum is an ideal model for studying genetic diversity and adaptation of ectomycorrhizal symbiosis. In this study, we constructed a C. geophilum pan-genome using six high-quality whole-genome sequences representing the global diversity and found that dispensable genes are important for its environmental adaptation. We identified millions of single-nucleotide polymorphisms, hundreds of thousands of small insertions/deletions, 0.04–0.2% structural variation, and 21 horizontally transferred genes from non-host plants. Based on resequencing data from 304 global isolates, we investigated the geographic structure of C. geophilum populations. Genome-wide association and transcriptome studies identified 161 genomic regions significantly associated with nine biological and environmental adaption characteristics, including 2738 candidate genes such as EVM0002574 for cadmium, salt, and high temperature stresses. These reference genomes and diversity datasets provide resources and a comparative genomic platform for the study of ectomycorrhizal symbioses.
Quantitative representation of dynamic properties and internal fissure in deep-seated damaged granite
Authors: Chu Huaibao , Chen Luyang , Wang Donghui , Sun Bo , Wen Zilong , Wei Haixia
Published: September 2024

Understanding the dynamics of damaged rock masses and the evolution of internal fissures is beneficial to deep engineering. This manuscript takes the common granite in deep engineering as the research object. By applying impact loads, three initial damage states of rock samples were created, and Hopkinson impact tests were conducted at four confining pressure levels to analyze the dynamic characteristics of damaged granite. Selected rock samples of one type of damaged granite after impact at different confining pressures for CT scanning tests, and three-dimensional models of the rock samples were constructed using Avizo software to analyze the effect of confining pressure on the evolution of granite fissure patterns and to quantitatively represent the changes in internal fissure and three-dimensional fractal dimension. The results indicate that with increasing damage, the peak stress and peak modulus of the damaged granite decrease, while the peak strain increases. When the initial damage is consistent, all three parameters increase with the rising confining pressure. Confining pressure alters the number and development direction of internal fissures in granite. Higher confining pressure results in fewer fissures, with their development direction shifting more towards the center of the sample and becoming straighter. As confining pressure increases, the overall volume of three-dimensional fissures in the rock sample gradually decreases, the volume and maximum length of through fissures decrease, the proportion of independent fissures increases, and the three-dimensional fractal dimension continuously decreases. This research provides valuable theoretical guidance for supporting and constructing surrounding rock in deep engineering projects.
A frequency-fixed power system dominated by renewable generations
Authors: Chen Lei , Min Yong , Lei Zhenyu , Xu Fei , Zhao Boyuan , Lu Zongxiang , Hao Ling
Published: September 2024

Converter interfaced generation (CIG) is gradually replacing synchronous generator (SG) as the main form of power generation, leading to fundamental changes in system characteristics. The current mainstream technical approach is to have CIGs emulate the operational characteristics of SGs and to follow the traditional active power-frequency control framework. This approach not only inherits various stability issues of the system dominated by SGs, but also introduces some new converter-driven stability problems, and has compromised the system's safety and hindered the development of renewable energy sources. Here we propose a novel frequency-fixed active power control (FF-APC) framework that maintains active power balance independently of frequency for the system dominated by CIGs. In this framework, the system frequency is almost always fixed at its rated value, and power flow adjustments are implemented through direct phase angle control. The approach eliminates various safety issues related to frequency variations, and significantly enhances the ability to maintain synchronization and prevent oscillations. Moreover, it is compatible with existing power sources and therefore can be gradually implemented in current power systems. Our work breaks through the frequency-based power control framework that has been in use in AC power systems for over a century, and is more suitable for integration of renewable energy sources.
Out of sight, out of mind? Cost of minimizing visibility of nationwide renewable energy systems
Authors: Tsani Tsamara , Pelser Tristan , Ioannidis Romanos , Maier Rachel , Chen Ruihong , Risch Stanley , Kullmann Felix , McKenna Russell , Stolten Detlef , Weinand Jann
Published: September 2024

Visual landscape impacts on scenic and populated places are important factors affecting local acceptance to large-scale renewable energy deployment. Through the combination of large-scale viewshed and techno-economic energy system analyses, we assess their potential impacts for nationwide renewable energy systems. In a case study of Germany, moderate consideration of visual impact by siting renewables out of sight of the most scenic and densely populated areas does not have a significant impact on system costs and design. However, with a higher sensitivity toward visual impacts, annual system costs would increase by up to 38% in the energy sector in 2045. In addition, this strategy would reduce the resilience of the energy system by increasing the reliance on green hydrogen imports and uncertain mass adoption of rooftop photovoltaics. The visual impact of renewable
energies cannot be completely eliminated, but careful planning could lead to a socially-acceptable deployment while understanding the implications for system costs and transformation pathways.
Harris Extended Dagum Distribution: Properties and Application
Authors: Bengalath Jabir , Punathumparambath Bindu
Published: September 2024

In this paper, we introduce a new lifetime distribution called the Harris extended Dagum distribution, which is defined by four shape parameters and one scale parameter. Alternative expressions for the HED distribution have been created to make complex calculations easier. We look into some important properties of the distribution, such as the expression for its mean, variance, characteristics function, moment generating function, skewness and kurtosis, entropy measures, and the distribution of its order statistics. To determine the effectiveness of the HED distribution, we estimate its parameters using the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) method and test their accuracy with monte carlo simulations. Finally, we apply the HED distribution to three real-world datasets and compare its performance to several other competing distributions. Our findings reveal that the newly suggested HED distribution beats the other distributions regarding adaptability and effectiveness.
Assessing the Thermal Load of Low-Cost Cold Storage for Perishable Agricultural Products Used in Rural Areas of Bangladesh
Authors: Sarker Dip , Iqbal Parvez , Sarker Debasish
Published: September 2024

Bangladesh is an agricultural country with a low food storage facility. More than 20-40% of perishable products waste which amounts to $2.4 billion. Field survey shows that people want fresh nutrient goods and farmers need enough time to sell their harvested goods at a fair price. The supply chain authorities also prefer to reduce perishable waste to increase their profit. To ensure food safety and proper supply management the implementation of low-cost cold storage will be an immediate solution. Areas (Districts) without storage facilities (e.g., Khagrachari, B.Baria, Mymensingh, Narial) can be covered as a storage-rich zone as well as can fulfill the government's scheme. Because of that objective, low-cost cold storage has been designed that comprises 28 m3 of space size with a storage capacity of 5000 kg of perishable fruits & vegetables. The product incoming rate is 1000kg/day and rice husk particles are used as an insulating material to minimize the cost. In the designing process, the cooling loads of different perishable fruits & vegetables are obtained using MATLAB coding. After considering the perishability rate and availability in the local market potato, mango watermelon and cauliflower are selected for this study.
Sekolah Unggulan: Pemisahan Gender dan Pendekatan Adab
Authors: Waliyuddin Akbar , Rushd Dartim Ibnu
Published: September 2024

Pendidikan memainkan peran sentral dalam membentuk karakter generasi muda di era pendidikan yang kompleks. Artikel ini mengulas dampak model pendidikan di SMP Muhammadiyah 10 Surakarta, yang mengombinasikan pemisahan gender dan pendekatan adab. Program unggulan ini, dimulai pada tahun 2006, bertujuan meningkatkan dimensi spiritual, moral, dan akademik siswa. Dengan memisahkan siswa berdasarkan jenis kelamin dan mengintegrasikan nilai-nilai adab Islam, sekolah ini berupaya menciptakan lingkungan belajar holistik. Penelitian ini menggali implementasi model pendidikan tersebut dengan fokus pada dampak terhadap perilaku, semangat belajar, dan karakter siswa. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif deskriptif dengan pendekatan studi kasus, melibatkan observasi partisipatif dan wawancara dengan stakeholder terkait. Hasilnya menunjukkan keberhasilan program dalam meningkatkan disiplin dan semangat belajar, meskipun menghadapi tantangan bersaing dan dinamika internal. Meskipun pemisahan kelas berdasarkan gender memengaruhi pola komunikasi siswa, prestasi akademis dipengaruhi oleh motivasi, dedikasi, dan dukungan keluarga. Evaluasi siswa dan situasi ujian menjadi tantangan dalam implementasi program ini. Meskipun demikian, program ini menjadi contoh bagaimana pendekatan holistik dapat membawa dampak positif yang besar dalam dunia pendidikan.