bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deciphering complex brain spatiotemporal dynamics shaping diverse human behavior
Authors: Liu Bing , Tian Xiaohan , Peng Yingjie , Wang Meng , Sun Yuqing , Lou Jing , Xian Junxing , He Yini , Hu Ke , Wang Qi , Huang Shangzheng , Li Ang
Published: October 2023

As a complex dynamic system, the brain remains notably active even at rest. Yet, the behavioral significance of such spontaneous activity is largely uncharted. We hypothesize that the variations in human behavior between individuals are embedded within the intricate patterns of intrinsic dynamics — an aspect previously underestimated but meriting integrative examination. Through resting-state functional MRI data, we extracted over 1 million spatiotemporal dynamic features, which encompass 7,700 temporal indices distributed across 271 brain regions for each individual. We introduced a comprehensive framework to thoroughly investigate the intricate spatiotemporal dynamics of the brain and their inherent associations with diverse human behaviors, integrating various analytical techniques. Our findings illuminate a novel set of dynamic properties that capture the distinctive 'fingerprint' of an individual and elucidate individual differences across cognitive and externalized behavioral dimensions. Interestingly, these dimensional brain signatures can be generalized and correlated with age-specific behaviors in an independent adolescent population. Our study sheds light on how intrinsic brain dynamics shape human behavior, offering a framework to understand behaviors and mental disorders through a complex systems lens.
Developing an evaluation index for human heat stress in high temperature and high humidity environments based on the CRITIC-TOPSIS model
Authors: You Bo , Luo Xiao
Published: October 2023

Long-term exposure to indoor high temperature and high humidity environment can lead to heat disease. In order to evaluate the heat stress level of human body in indoor high temperature and high humidity environment, the present study used CRITIC combination weighting, established a new comprehensive evaluation index CRI based on TOPSIS model, verified the rationality of CRI, and determined the classification of CRI by the thermal stress intensity classification of physiological stress index PSI. The results showed that the weight of thermal sensation vote, tympanic temperature, oral temperature, average skin temperature and heart rate was higher, which was greatly affected by high temperature and high humidity environment, and the weight of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure was lower. The safety range of CRI (0.56,1], heat tolerance range (0.23,0.56], dangerous range [0,0.23].
Lifelong learning in nursing science: Satisfaction and reflection on the application of new knowledge in the daily practice of the Greek Health System
Authors: Dalagkozi Paraskevi , Maz-Machado Alexander , Vergara-Romero Arnaldo
Published: October 2023

Background Recognizing the important contribution of lifelong learning programs to their professional development, more and more Greek nurses are choosing to attend such programs. However, after completing their studies, many of them find that there are many challenges in applying what they have learned to their daily work. The aim of this study was to assess the satisfaction rates of nurses who participate in lifelong learning programs, their implementation in daily nursing practice, and at the same time to record suggestions for the improvement of lifelong learning programs.Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the satisfaction rates of nurses who participate in lifelong learning programs, their implementation in daily nursing practice, and at the same time to record suggestions for the improvement of lifelong learning programs.Methods and Material: This is a qualitative descriptive study in which 13 nurses from various hospitals in Greece participated as volunteers. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews, a basic qualitative methodology research tool.Results: All the nurses who participated in the study were satisfied with the lifelong learning programs in terms of increased effectiveness in their work. They argue, however, that the programs need to be improved in terms of content and should include the practical application of the new knowledge they acquire. As far as the application of the new skills they acquire is concerned, it is difficult to apply them in everyday nursing practice, mainly because of the way the Greek healthcare system is organized.Conclusions: Lifelong learning programs contribute to the acquisition of new skills which are difficult to apply in a system still based on the rigid bureaucratic model. Action is therefore required on the part of the Greek state in order to make the most of the skills acquired by the human resources of the NHS.
Spatial distribution of mutations in voltage-gated sodium channel genes of Culex pipiens pallens/Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus in China
Authors: Li Wenyu , Ma Delong , Mu Qunzheng , Zhou Xinxin , Hua Dongdong , Zhao Chunchun , Zhao Qiyong , Wang Jun , Meng Fengxia
Published: October 2023

Background
Culex pipiens pallens and Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus are the main species of bloodsucking mosquitoes in China. The aim of this study is to understand the current situation of VGSC genes of Cx. pipiens pallens and Cx. pipiens quinquefasciarus in China and the impact of pyrethroid insecticides on the long-term evolution of mosquito populations, providing a basis for scientific prevention and control.
Methods
Study 28 geographic populations in 22 provinces. Partial fragments of the voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSC) gene on the nerve cell membrane were amplified by PCR. The mutation, mutation frequency and phylogenetic were analyzed after sequencing.
Results
There were 6 alleles and 6 genotypes at the L1014 locus, which were wild-type TTA / L and CTA / L, mutant TTT / F, TTC / F, TCT / S and TCA / S. The proportion of homozygous L/L and mutant homozygous F/F in genotype is similar, which are more than 30.00% The geographic populations with frequency less than 20.00% are mainly concentrated in the north of 38 ° N, and the geographic populations with frequency more than 80.00% in the south of 30 ° N. frequency increases with the decrease of latitude, and frequency has urban tendency. mutation is correlated with introns. The mutant allele TCA / S has only one intron, TTT / F has three introns, and the wild allele TTA / L has 17 introns.
Conclusions
The allelic genotype of Culex pipiens pallens/Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus in China is diversified, and the resistance of Culex pipiens pallens/Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus in most areas has been developed, and the degree of resistance is regional. gene has a polymorphism in its adjacent downstream intron and is related to mutation.
Cost-competitiveness of distributed ammonia production
for the global fertilizer industry
Authors: Tonelli Davide , Rosa Lorenzo , Gabrielli Paolo , Parente Alessandro , Contino Francesco
Published: October 2023

The production of ammonia as a precursor to nitrogen fertilizers contributes to about 1% of global CO2 emissions and consumes about 2% of global energy. Current ammonia and fertilizers production is centralized in large facilities, from which fertilizers are then transported to croplands, and use fossil fuels as a feedstock for the Haber-Bosch process. The reliance of global food production on trading fertilizers and the volatile fossil fuel prices exposes fertilizers to supply shocks. These factors, in addition to the need to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions, prompts a restructuring in the ammonia industry. An alternative approach consists in producing ammonia in small modular facilities via electric Haber-Bosch or direct electrocatalytic reduction. Here, we examine the cost-competitiveness of a new ammonia industry where low-carbon ammonia production is co-located at the cropland level. Techno-economic parameters and biophysical limits are considered for production in 2020 and for projected production in 2030 and 2050. Considering the median historical market price of ammonia in the 2000-2023 period, our findings indicate that cost-competitiveness cannot be achieved. However, by 2030, distributed electric Haber-Bosch could supply 52% (53 Mt/y) and electrocatalysis 7% (7 Mt/y) of global ammonia demand at a lower cost than the peak historical market price, increasing to 71% (73 Mt/y) by 2050 for both the technologies.
TNF-a-induced laminin-332 promotes an atherogenic endothelial phenotype
Authors: Hayderi Assim , Zegeye Mulugeta Melkie , Meydan Sare , Sirsjö Allan , Kumawat Ashok Kumar , Ljungberg Liza Ulrika
Published: October 2023

Background:Laminins are key components of the basement membranes separating endothelial cells from the underlying tissues. They form complex networks of fibers within the basement membrane to provide structural support and regulate the behavior and function of surrounding cells. In mammals, the products of the five alpha, four beta and three gamma laminin genes are combined to generate 16-18 laminin isoforms, which under physiological circumstances confer some tissue specificity, with alpha 4- and alpha 5-containing isoforms being considered vascular-specific. During inflammation, however, the expression pattern of laminin genes may change, which in turn may affect the behavior of surrounding cells.
Objectives: We aimed to investigate the impact of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-a) on laminin gene expression in endothelial cells and examine the impact of TNF-a-induced laminin (laminin-332 or LN332) on endothelial cells’ behavior.
Results:TNF-a induces LN332-encoding genes in endothelial cells. Endothelial cells cultured on LN332 display irregular shape and appear loosely connected. These cells acquire lower expression of tight junction protein, claudin-5, elevated expression of leukocyte adhesion molecules and enhanced secretion of chemokines. In addition, cells cultured on LN332 are more adhesive to leukocytes and supernatant from these cells is more attractive for primary monocytes in vitro. Notably, LN332-encoding genes are elevated in human atherosclerotic lesions and correlate with the expression of TNF-a.
Conclusions: We demonstrate that TNF-a-induced upregulation of LN332 promotes a pro-atherogenic endothelial phenotype. Elevated levels of LN332-encoding genes in atherosclerotic lesions, correlating with TNF-a, suggest a potential role for LN332 in the pathophysiology of atherosclerosis.
A Modular Approach to Design an Experimental Framework for Resource Management Research
Authors: Pons Lucia , Petit Salvador , Pons Julio , Gómez María E. , Sahuquillo Julio
Published: October 2023

Research on resource management focuses on optimizing system performance and energy efficiency by distributing shared resources like processor cores, caches, and main memory among competing applications. This research spans a wide range of applications, including those from high-performance computing, machine learning, and mobile computing. Existing research frameworks often simplify research by concentrating on specific characteristics, such as the architecture of the computing nodes, resource monitoring, and representative workloads. For instance, this is typically the case with cloud systems, which introduce additional complexity regarding hardware and software requirements. To avoid this complexity during research, experimental frameworks are being developed. Nevertheless, proposed frameworks often fail regarding the types of nodes included, virtualization support, and management of critical shared resources.
This paper presents Stratus, an experimental framework that overcomes these limitations. Stratus includes different types of nodes, a comprehensive virtualization stack, and the ability to partition the major shared resources of the system. Even though Stratus was originally conceived to perform cloud research, its modular design allows Stratus to be extended, broadening its research use on different computing domains and platforms, matching the complexity of nowadays cloud environments.
The diet of the giant anteater, Myrmecophaga tridactyla Linnaeus 1758, in the Cerrado of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
Authors: SILVA TAINARA SANTANA GALVAO DA , ATTIAS Nina , NASCIMENTO Natalia Teixeira , TIBCHERANI Mariáh , DESBIEZ Arnaud Léonard Jean
Published: October 2023

Relationships between species and their habitat are strongly related to their feeding habits making its description essential for understanding the species’ biology and plan their conservation. This study describes the diet of giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), a specialist insectivorous mammal, and evaluates potential sex-related intraspecific variation. We analyzed fecal matter from live individuals, and stomach and feces content from road-kills (N = 29 individuals) collected between 2018 and 2020 in the Cerrado savanna of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Anteater’s diet was described by the relative frequency (RF; proportion of the sample mass represented by the prey item) and the frequency of occurrence (FO; proportion of samples in which the item was detected) of each prey item, which was classified to the lowest taxonomic level possible. The diet was composed of 29 morphotypes of ants (Formicidae), 14 morphotypes of termites (Blattodea) and grass seeds (Poacea). They fed primarily on ants (FO = 100%; RF = 29.19%) and termites (FO = 93.10%; RF = 69.85%), with no significant differences between sexes (F = 1.0773; p = 0.37). Termites of the genus Syntermes (RF = 69.59%) represented most of the dietary sample mass, and ants of the genus Pheidole represented the most frequent item found in the samples (FO = 93.10%). M. tridactyla is a myrmecophagous specialist that consumes a great richness of prey species associated with multiple habitats. Hence, the preservation of the natural heterogeneity of the Cerrado landscape and their habitats is essential for the conservation of this vulnerable species.
Wear behaviour of SiC-Reinforced Metal Matrix Composites FeCrNiCuMo High Entropy Alloy Processed Through Powder Metallurgy
Authors: T Ramprabhu , P Vignesh , S Krishnakumar , GS Anand , CM Bhuvaneswari , SS Kale
Published: October 2023

A series of FeCrNiCuMo high-entropy alloys with different SiC (x = 10 and 15% wt. %) contents were designed, and their microstructure and tribological behaviour were investigated. The tribological behaviour and wear resistance of the composites were evaluated at a range of sliding speeds (20, 30, and 40 ms− 1) in a brake dynamometer for brake friction material applications. According to the estimates of volume loss, wear rate, and friction coefficient, the possible wear mechanisms were suggested in all cases. Additionally, SEM/EDS analysis was conducted on the worn surfaces and debris. With the increase in sliding speed, the wear rate increases due to the increased intensity of abrasive wear, oxidation wear, and plastic deformation-assisted wear. The materials possessed excellent braking performance and wear resistance. The values of average coefficient friction under A1 (20ms− 1), A2 (30ms− 1), and A3 (40ms− 1) sliding conditions were 0.23, 0.29, and 0.34, respectively. In comparison to the A3, the A1 exhibits a lower volume wear loss. As the sliding speed change, adhesive wear and abrasive wear become more prevalent, and fatigue wear also occurs.
RETRACTED: Could Acupuncture Combing with Lambdoma Matrix Harmonic Music Treat Insomnia?
Authors: Lin Jyh-Woei
Published: October 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A digestive enzyme and herbal dietary supplement reduces bloating in a single use in healthy adults: A randomized, placebo-controlled, cross over study
Authors: Martin-Biggers Jennifer
Published: October 2023

Background
Healthy individuals with no diagnosed gastrointestinal condition may suffer from occasional meal-related bloating, gassiness and discomfort that negatively affects quality of life. This study examined the effect and tolerability of a digestive enzyme and herbal dietary supplement to improve meal-related bloating, gassiness and discomfort.
Methods
Adults aged 18 to 45 (n = 25) with self-reported bloating or abdominal distension at least once per day after a meal and no preexisting condition or medication use that may cause bloating were enrolled. After obtaining informed consent, fasted participants were randomized to consume either placebo or test product and consume a test meal. Waist circumference was measured at baseline, and again with surveys at 30- and 90-minutes post meal. Survey questionnaires asked participants to rate the momentary severity of bloating, distended stomach, gas, and indigestion on a 4-point scale (severe, moderate, mild, absent). Following a 1-week washout, participants repeated study procedures with the other study product. Descriptive statistics were used for continuous and categorical values, with independent sample t-tests conducted to examine between group differences and paired t-tests to examine differences in waist circumference scores.
Results
Participants (n = 20) experienced 58% less abdominal distension as assessed by the waist circumference measure at 30 minutes (0.93 cm vs 1.50 cm, p = 0.04) and 68% less at 90 minutes with the test product compared to the placebo (0.94 cm vs 2.12 cm, p = 0.007). Overall, 80% of participants had less distension with the test product compared to the placebo. No significant differences were noted between questions assessing momentary bloating, distended stomach, gas nor indigestion. There was a trend to more strongly agree the test product was effective for overall feelings of bloating, stomach discomfort and distension, as well as indigestion, with 65% of participants reporting less stomach discomfort and 55% reporting feeling less gassy than normal with the test product. No product-related adverse events or discomfort was reported.
Conclusions
A dietary supplement containing a blend of digestive enzymes and herbal ingredients was well tolerated and effective at reducing post-meal abdominal distension compared to placebo in healthy subjects.
Trial Registration:
ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05520411, Submitted August 26, 2022
A Novel Trusted Hardware-based Scalable Security Framework for IoT Edge Devices
Authors: Khan Mohd , Hatami Mohsen , Zhao Wenfeng , Chen Yu
Published: October 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) devices are pervasively deployed and embedded into our daily lives. The massive assimilation of IoT devices over several years has given rise to smart cities, smart factories, smart farms, etc. While IoTs are capable of collecting immense user and/or environmental information, the lack of adequate security measures is among the major concerns about information security and privacy. With the ever-increasing presence of IoTs, information flow between IoT devices in a single or multi-layered network is becoming increasingly vulnerable to attacks. Although several software-based solutions have been developed over the years that improve the security of resource-constrained IoT devices, there are limited efforts on hardware-oriented IoT security solutions. This paper proposes a Trusted HArdware-based Scalable Secure Architecture (THASSA) for IoT Edge systems. Leveraging standard cryptographic algorithms, THASSA provides a secure mechanism for data transfer and off-loads cryptography operations to the trusted hardware. The modularized THASSA architecture allows devices to be added or removed without user intervention. Also, THASSA could be scaled to multiple subsystems using multiple trusted hardware to form IoT clusters with secure data path(s) for mission-critical applications. An experimental study has verified the correctness and effectiveness of THASSA.
Using a Social-Ecological Framework to Examine the Cognitive Development of Elementary School Children in the U.S.
Authors: Park Hyejoon , McCormick Melinda , Guo Siying , Liu Jin , Park Ju Hong
Published: October 2023

This study examined the cognitive areas of elementary school children in terms of applying significant and identifiable factors within a social-ecological framework. By studying the association between social-ecological factors and children’s cognitive areas, we observed which factors are most salient to associate with children’s cognitive outcomes. We used the 6thwave (9 years old) of the U.S. Fragile Family and Child Wellbeing Study. With a sample size of 1722, we used multiple regression analyses of the relationship between individual, family, and school/community levels and children’s verbal skills (PPVT Ⅲ), reading comprehension (WJ-PC), digital span, and math problems (WJ-AP). We found that children in special education schools showed lower scores in all cognitive areas than children in regular public schools; the school environment was associated with verbal skills, math skills, and reading comprehension; mothers’ educational levels were significantly associated with verbal skills, digital span, and reading comprehension; and children’s race was associated with verbal skills. To improve schoolers’ cognitive areas, policy-makers in education and educators should be concerned about the quality of schools and their environment. Special education should be carefully reviewed to address the specific learning needs of students and their developmental areas. Parenting education could be beneficial for parents with lower education.
NNMT involving with gastric adenocarcinoma immune infiltration by driving amino acids metabolism
Authors: Lu Jianyong , Gui Wenliang , Tang Shen , Shi Qianqian , Wang Xinhang , Huang Liyuan , Shen Yinghui , Yang Shuting , Xiang Junni , Yuan Jianglang , Mo Jiao , Kong Xingxing , Huang Mingwei , Li Xiyi , Lu Cailing
Published: October 2023

Objectives
Gastric cancer is a malignant tumor with high incidence rate and high mortality. Gastric adenocarcinoma (STAD) is the main pathological type of gastric cancer. Nicotinamide N-methyltransferase (NNMT) is a methylation enzyme that primarily participates in the metabolism of nicotinamide (NAM) in the body, which is highly expressed in many solid tumor tissues and is associated with cancer progression and tumor microenvironment. NNMT is a hot spotlight in the development of STAD.
Methods
Bioinformatics data Basing on the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) was withdrawn and analyzed to explore the character of NNMT in STAD. Tissues from clinical patient specimens were collected and conducted Western blot and immunohistochemistry to explore the localization and expression of NNMT in cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues of STAD patients. The profiles of amino acids in cancer tissues and adjacent normal tissues of STAD patients were compared. The relationship between of NNMT and genes to differential amino acids was further mapped.
Results
Bioinformatics analysis from the TCGA database revealed that NNMT is highly expressed in cancer tissues of STAD patients and influences tumor immune infiltration. The outcome from clinical specimen confirmed that both the NNMT mRNA and protein expression was significantly increased in cancer tissues of STAD patients compared to adjacent normal tissues. 28 differential amino acids, including alanine, leucine, aspartic acid, and glutamic acid etc. 10 differential amino acid metabolic enzymes, including GPX3, GAMT, AMD1, and ODC1 etc. were associated with NNMT. Clinical specimens confirmed a negative correlation between GPX3, GAMT, and AMD1 mRNA expression and NNMT.
Conclusion
NNMT is highly expressed in STAD tissues and may drive amino acid metabolites changes by their enzymes, thus influence STAD immune infiltration and tumorigenesis.
Vietnam Spam Review Detection using Graph Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Nguyen Van-Trung , Vo Van-Khanh , Truong Hai-Bang , Le Than , Nguyen Thuy-Dung , Pham Van-Huy , Nguyen Trung
Published: October 2023

With the proliferation of social media platforms, especially commercial platforms today, and the ease of access to internet shopping, it is difficult to determine which products are good for clients based on reviews from users. Numerous successful innovations in the field of spam product review detection have been made. This study focuses on the creation of an efficient method for Vietnam spam product review detection using cutting-edge language models in addition to Vietnam-related work. For feature extraction, we utilize PhoBERT, a cutting-edge pretrained model for Vietnamese language processing. The downstream task model will be followed by the Graph Reinforcement Learning architecture, which has had many successes recently. Our proposed GRL model tries to capture text reviews into graph representations and utilize passing mechanisms for leveraging the product description as a global message passing to the review. By combining with the RL framework, we can construct the modulator, which controls the amount of information passing from the product description and gives out the best outcomes in the long term and outperformance compared to traditional methods.
The localization and incidence of metoptic canal and Warwick’s foramen in adult skulls from West Anatolia
Authors: Aksu Funda , Karabekir Selim , Gocmen-Karabekir Nuket
Published: October 2023

Purpose
Metoptic canal (MC) is located between the superior orbital fissure and the optic canal. Warwick’s foramen (WF) is viewed on the inner side of the orbit together with foramen rotundum and superior orbital fissure. The aim of the present study was to determine the presence and incidence of MC and WF and to examine their morphometric characteristics in a sample of Turkish skulls from West Anatolia.
Methods
A total of 153 dried human skulls and 11 dried skull bases from a West Anatolian Turkish population collected at the Anatomy Department of Dokuz Eylul University were examined. Presence and incidence of the MC and of WF were determined. The distance between reference points and the structures examined within the orbit were measured using a caliper. Student's t test was used for comparisons between the right and left sided measurements. SPSS 22.0 software pack was used for statistical analysis.
Results
MC was detected in 10 of the 153 dry human skulls: 4 (2.6%) on the right side, 5 (3.2%) on the left side, and one (0.06%) bilaterally. There were no statistically significant differences between right and left side measurements (p > 0.05). WF was observed in 2 (18.2%) of the 11 dry skulls, and both were on the left.
Conclusion
The relationships between MC, WF and other anatomical structures may be of clinical importance in surgical operations involving the orbit.
Unveiling nature’s beat: analyzing the acoustics of an aquatic bug in relation to urban sounds
Authors: Farfán-Beltrán Manuel Edday , Cano-Santana Zenon , Córdoba-Aguilar Alex
Published: October 2023

Anthropophony is a prominent component of the soundscapes worldwide and is known to affect biota. Although responses to antropophony in terrestrial and marine animals have been relatively well studied, there is still a lack of knowledge regarding freshwater biota. In fact, freshwater taxa are possibly among the most threatened groups and so unveiling the reasons of threat is key. We investigated the low-frequency sounds - usually associated with anthropophony - on the stridulation of Krizousacorixa femorata, a common water bug in Mexico City. Using aerial recordings, we estimated the Normalized Difference Soundscape Index (NDSI) to characterize soundscapes in six city sites throughout a year. Also, we obtained the peak frequency (Pf) through underwater recordings. By last, we evaluated the relationships between the soundscapes and the Pf through a mixed linear model. There was a negative relation between NDSI and Pf, so there are higher-pitched stridulations at sites with dominant anthropophony. We cannot discard other factors that contribute to stridulation variation. Nonetheless, we ignore how low-frequency sounds impact freshwater ecosystems, and the intricate relationship between soundscapes and aquatic life in urban settings. Implications for insect conservation: There is a correlation between anthropophony and variations in the stridulation of aquatic bugs. This highlights the possibility of sound pollution on freshwater systems, emphasizing the need for assessment to better understand and prevent potential harm to aquatic insects.
Integrative bioinformatics analyses reveal new molecular signatures and immune infiltration in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: mediators of airflow limitation
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhang Shunan , Han Guiling , Yang Ting
Published: October 2023

Background
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a lung disease characterized by progressive airflow limitation and lacks clear molecular pathogenesis. We aimed to screen potential key genes and immune infiltration traits in COPD progression by bioinformatics analyses.
Methods
Transcriptome data of lung tissue samples with COPD patients were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and Protein-protein interaction (PPI) network were used to identify key genes and interactions. GO enrichment analysis, KEGG analysis, FunRich analysis, and GSEA analysis were used to explore potential biological regulatory mechanisms. CIBERSOFT method for estimating the relative proportions of 22 human immune cells subpopulations.
Results
A total of 1230 DEGs (660 up-regulated and 570 down-regulated) were identified. WGCNA and PPI selected 8 key genes related to the severity of airflow limitation (GOLD stage), including PRPF19, ATM, CD44, KHDRBS1, RBBP7, VCL, PTEN, and BECN1, which were significantly associated with immune system functions. COPD patients with different GOLD stages have different characteristics of immune cell infiltration, with proportions of T cells (CD8+ T cells, CD4+ memory-resting T cells, CD4+ memory-activated T cells, and gamma delta T cells), B cells (memory B cells) and macrophages (M1 macrophages) upregulated in patients with GOLD stage III-IV. Furthermore, these key genes may regulate multiple immune- and inflammation-related pathways, including Cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, ECM-receptor interaction, NF-κB signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, Chemokine signaling pathway, MAPK signaling pathway, PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Ras signaling pathway, p53 signaling pathway.
Conclusions
Our study provides new salient genes and immune landscape features associated with COPD, suggesting that these potentially key genes may mediate airflow limitation and disease progression in COPD through immune cell infiltration and immune function regulation.
Clinical efficacy of TACE combined with targeted or immune drugs for the treatment of unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Song Ziyang , Sun Chenhang , Wu Fangye , Ma Qian , Ye Yuanxin , Xi Zihan , Zheng Jiaping , Sun Wan , Zhu Xiaoyang , Zeng Hui , Zhang Dinhu , Zhang Zhewei , Shao Guoliang
Published: October 2023

Purpose
To evaluate the clinical efficacy and safety of transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) combined with targeted or immune drugs for the treatment of unresectable intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC).
Methods
A total of 78 patients with unresectable ICC were retrospectively enrolled and analyzed. Objective response rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS) and adverse events were assessed.
Results
Both the partial remission (PR) rate and ORR were significantly higher in the TACE combined group than in the TACE alone group (PR, 66.7% vs. 41.7%, P = 0.027; ORR, 71.4% vs. 44.4%, P = 0.016). The median PFS of the TACE combined group and the TACE alone group were 7.4 months (95% CI: 4.8–10.0) and 5.8 months (95% CI: 3.5–8.1), respectively, with a statistically significant difference (P = 0.028). The median OS of TACE combined group and the TACE alone group were 17.3 (95% CI: 13.8–20.7) months and 19.3 (95% CI: 7.9–30.7) months, respectively. Regarding independent risk factors, multifactorial analysis suggested that a bilirubin concentration > 20 µmol/L and multiple tumors were independent risk factors for PFS, while high concentrations of CA199 and alanine transaminase were independent risk factors for OS. In terms of side effects, the most common adverse events were abdominal pain, nausea and hypoalbuminemia.
Conclusions
TACE combined with targeted or immune drugs elicited a better short-term effect than TACE therapy alone, without an increase in the incidence of serious adverse events.
RETRACTED: Capsaicin attenuates ferroptosis and pyroptosis in nucleus pulposus cells by disrupting the IL-1β/NF-κB-PTGS2 positive feedback loop
Authors: Zhu Daxue , Yang Fengguang , Li Yanhu , Wang Zhaoheng , Zhang Guangzhi , He Xuegang , Zhang Mingtao , Luo Zhangbing , Duan Yanni , Zhang Yibao , Kang Xuewen
Published: October 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Proposal for Optimizing Number of Servers in Closed BCMP Queueing Network
Authors: Mizuno Shinya , Komiyama Yuki , Ohba Haruka
Published: October 2023

In this study, we use a closed BCMP queueing network model designed for multiple customer classes and servers to optimize the number of servers at each node. This optimization is achieved by setting an upper limit on the number of servers and using an objective function that combines the standard deviation of the average number of customers in the system with the server installation cost. We use a genetic algorithm with parallel computations for the optimization process. Our findings demonstrate that this approach is viable for closed BCMP network models that require extensive computational resources. The optimal server count is validated by comparing the optimization results with the maximum number of servers utilized. Node popularity is predetermined, and a gravity model is employed to generate transition probabilities, rendering the model applicable to real-world scenarios. Our optimization results indicate that both the node popularity and distance between nodes influence the server count. Furthermore, simulations were conducted to evaluate the effect of the number of servers on the optimization outcomes. Allowing variations in the node count, location, and popularity makes this study flexible and adaptable to various real-world scenarios, such as transportation systems, healthcare facilities, and commercial spaces. Moreover, by providing an efficient and scalable solution, this study serves as a cornerstone for future research in this field and offers a practical tool for facility managers aiming to minimize both congestion and operational costs.
Transmural collaborative care model for the review of antipsychotics: a feasibility study of a complex intervention
Authors: Jakobs Kirsti M. , Brule-Barnhoorn Karlijn J. van den , Lieshout Jan van , Janzing Joost G.E. , Cahn Wiepke , Muijsenbergh Maria van den , Biermans Marion C.J. , Bischoff Erik W.M.A.
Published: October 2023

General practitioners (GPs) are often unaware of antipsychotic (AP)-induced cardiovascular risk (CVR) and therefore patients using atypical APs are not systematically monitored. We evaluated the feasibility of a complex intervention designed to review the use of APs and advise on CVR-lowering strategies in a transmural collaboration. A mixed methods prospective cohort study in three general practices in the Netherlands was conducted in 2021. The intervention comprised three steps: a digital information meeting, a multidisciplinary meeting, and a shared decision-making visit to the GP. We assessed patient recruitment and retention rates, advice given and adopted, and CVR with QRISK3 score and mental state with MHI-5 at baseline and three months post-intervention. GPs invited 57 of 146 eligible patients (39%), of whom 28 (19%) participated. The intervention was completed by 23 (82%) and follow-up by 18 participants (64%). At the multidisciplinary meeting, 22 (78%) patients were advised to change AP use. Other advice concerned medication (other than APs), lifestyle, monitoring, and psychotherapy. At 3-months post-intervention, 41% (28/68) of this advice was adopted. Our findings suggest that this complex intervention is feasible for evaluating health improvement in patients using AP in a trial.
Nutritional contents of low phenylalanine diets: A mini review
Authors: Ammar A. S. M.
Published: October 2023

Increased interest in the utilization of nutrition management of patients with phenylketonuria is clear. Applications include a small measured amount of phenylalanine given in the form of exchange food, phenylalanine-free protein substitute and low phenylalanine foods.In this article, the essential nutritional contents of low phenylalanine diets and the latest techniques and procedures used for creating several types of low phenylalanine diets from different food sources for persons with phenylketonuria are reviewed. The principles of these methods are described. Most of the techniques and procedures employed to remove Phe from the protein hydrolysate are based on the liberation of the amino acid using enzymatic hydrolysis. Free Phe is then removed via adsorption. Therefore, knowing the phenylalanine (Phe) content of foods as well as principles of procedures and techniques used for creating low Phe diets is very important for managing the diet of patients with phenylketonuria. Allowed foods and foods that should be avoided by persons with phenylketonuria are mentioned. Low Phe cereal based foods (i. e. toast bread, pasta, shamy bread, pan bread and rice) and dairy based foods are also considered. The US FDA regulation of aspartame labeling is also stated.
Network pharmacology and molecular docking study to reveal the potential anticancer activity of Oscillatoxin D, E, and F marine cytotoxins
Authors: Luthfiana D. , Soleha M. , Prasetiyo A. , Kusuma W. A. , Fatriani R. , Nurfadhila L. , Yunitasari N. , Ahkam A. H. , Wargasetia T. L. , Irfandi R. , Ansori A. N. M. , Kharisma V. D. , Naw S. W. , Ullah E. , Jakhmola V. , Zainul R.
Published: October 2023

Oscillatoxins (OTXs) are cytotoxins produced by some marine cyanobacteria. Their unique structures show a great potency as an anticancer agent. The limited availability of OTX derivatives in nature provides little information about their biological activity. Some of OTX activities have been tested in the in vitro or in vivo studies toward cancer cell lines, but their exact mechanism of action on the target is unclear. In this study, we used the network pharmacology analysis method to predict the target and mechanism of action of oscillatoxin D (OTX-D), 30 methyl oscillatoxin D (30-methyl-OTX-D), oscillatoxin E (OTX-E), and oscillatoxin F (OTX-F). There are 20 possible targets of the four compounds toward cancer, and the main targets of them are PIK3CA, CDK1, and MTOR. This was also followed by the molecular docking study to understand the interaction between the four compounds and their targets. Molecular docking showed that the four compounds interacted well with the key targets. In this study, four derivatives of OTXs and their three key targets for the anticancer action were revealed suggesting multiple signaling pathways, including PD-L1 expression and PD‑1 checkpoint pathway in cancer, proteoglycans in cancer, and pathways in cancer, establishing a theoretical framework for the further experimental study.
Isotopic characteristics of Crimean collection wines
Authors: Oganesyants L. A. , Panasyuk A. L. , Kuzmina E. I. , Sviridov D. A. , Likhovskoy V. V. , Zagoruiko V. A. , Shmigelskaya N. A.
Published: October 2023

Collection wines are a special category of winemaking products, which acquire their unique characteristics during aging. One of the first wine collections in Russia was created in 1833–1835 in the Magarach state establishment, which is now the AllRussian National Research Institute of Viticulture and Winemaking “Magarach”. The large part of the Magarach collection consists of strong wines. These wines were produced by introducing alcohol of different nature (grape, grain, molasses), which was conditioned by the requirements of the legislation that was in force at the moment of production. It was interesting to find out the nature of alcohol that was used for wine alcoholization in the preceding decades. To this end, the method of isotope mass spectrometry was used. In addition, it was necessary to establish whether the values of isotopic characteristics of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen of ethanol of grape origin have changed over the last decades. The objects of the research were 15 samples of Crimean collection wines, one of which was dry wine of the 1982 harvest and 14 strong wines were from harvests of the last century with the oldest wine made from grape of the 1937 harvest. The composition of the stable carbon isotopes of ethanol in the samples was determined using the analytical complex Delta V Advantage. It has been found that the dry wine of 1982 harvest was produced without adding alcohol. Although the age of the drink is more than 40 years, the values of the isotopic characteristics of the elements of ethanol are typical for the modern products made exclusively from grape. Thus, the isotopic characteristics of carbon, oxygen and hydrogen of sugars of grape berry did not change significantly over the studied period. When analyzing strong wines, it has been established that the values of the isotopic characteristics of carbon were in a range of –27.23‰ to –24.13‰ (except one sample with a value of –15.49‰); the corresponding values for oxygen were from 7.21‰ to 17.09‰ and for hydrogen from –270‰ to –216‰. Therefore, for most studied samples, the obtained values of isotopic characteristics of the elements of ethanol were typical precisely for the mixture of grape and grain alcohols.
LEADERSHIP INFLUENCE OF GIRL-CHILD ACCESS TO SECONDARY SCHOOL EDUCATION IN BUNGOMA COUNTY: ACASE OF MOUNT ELGON DISTRICT, KENYA
Authors:   MBA, (Busineess Administration) Kenyatta University., Kafunah Shiyukah Francis
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study was to establish environmental influence ofgirl-child access to secondary school education in Mount Elgon District. Despite impressive development towards achieving gender parity on access to education, enrolment statistics in Mount Elgon District at secondary school level reveals a worrying experience due to unknown environmental factors. The objective of the study included: determine influence of community factors on girl-child enrolment, establish the influence of home environment on girl-child school attendance, Identify influence of school enrolment on girl-child access to secondary school and establish the influence of family factors on girl-child access to secondary schools in Mt. Elgon District Bungoma County. The researcher applied gender Schema theory bySandra Bern theory of 1981 that explains how as a cognitive theory to explain how individuals become gendered in society, and how sex-linked characteristics are maintained and transmitted to other members of a culture. The researcher employed descriptive design which involved gathering facts by obtaining precise information on the current status of phenomenon and drew conclusions from the facts. The target was 1611 on principals teachers and head girls from 31 schools. Simple random sampling and purposive population sampling techniques were applied on a sample of 102 respondents. The researcher administered the questionnaires and interview schedules in collection of the data. The findings were that parents prefer educating girls than boys though girls admire doing to schools, that the girls have no problem with the school environment and teachers and parental support and commitment was lacking towards girls education. The study concluded that the girl child loves education and would wish to continue with education to high level but is affected negatively with the family factors. The descriptive statistics were used to summarize the whole study and the interpretation accompanied. The study recommended that parents were to stop discrimination against the girl-child and sensitization of parents to take place on the importance of education to girl-child education .through the government policies on girl child education.
A STUDY ON CUSTOMER PERCEPTION TOWARDS ONLINE BANKING SERVICES OF STATE BANK OF INDIA IN JALNA DISTRICT
Authors:   Research Scholar, Jalna District, Maharashtra State, India, Mohan Wakharkar Dhanashri
Published: October 2023

Customer is the king of the market. In banking sector Online banking system plays a vital role and its very benefited to people in Covid-19 Pandemic. Nowadays banks provide various products and services to its customers related to online banking services for their convenience and safety which is available at low cost. This paper highlights the customer perception towards online banking system. For the study researcher collect data from the 120 SBI customers from Jalna District through structured questionnaire.
MATHEMATICAL MODELLING IN WAITING QUEUE IN SHOPPING MALL
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, Madhyanchal Professional University, Bhopal., Bisen Tijeshwari , Garg Arun ,   Department of Mathematics, Madhyanchal Professional University, Bhopal.
Published: October 2023

This project is an attempt to analyze the use of queuing theory in a local shopping mall. Also considers the mall as a multi server queuing system following Poisson arrival and Exponential service based system. A comparison of the results using MATLAB pertaining to double server and multiple server queuing system is also provided.
ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE, AWARENESS AND ATTITUDE OF SCHOOL TEACHERS OF KAPADWANJ TALUKA TOWARDS ORAL HEALTH- A QUESTIONNAIRE STUDY
Authors:   Post Graduate Student, Department of Periodontology, AMC Dental College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India., Bhavsar Kruti , Dave Bela ,   Professor and Head, Department of Periodontology, AMC Dental College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India., Shah Drashti ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Periodontology, AMC Dental College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India., Garnayak Parul ,   Undergraduate student, AMC Dental College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India., Savjani Kinjal ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Periodontology, AMC Dental College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India., Prajapati Archana ,   Post Graduate Student, Department of Periodontology, AMC Dental College, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
Published: October 2023

Objective:Schools and teachers are the vital source of guidance pertaining oral health in students. Oral health education given in early life has lifelong effect on person. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the knowledge, awareness and attitude of primary and middle school teachersconcerning oral health of Kapadwanj Taluka. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted ongovernment schoolteachers ofKapadwanj taluka, Gujarat. Data of responses to 11 close ended, self-structured questionnaire assessing knowledge, awareness and attitude towards oral health was collected and entered in computer software. The frequency and percentage of data for all three sections were evaluated. Results: Total 148 primary and middle school teachers were enrolled in study without gender preference.98.6% teachers had good awareness,63.5% of them were with average knowledge while only 46.6% had favorable attitude.Distribution in gender showed almost equal knowledge and awareness in male and female teachers with comparatively more favorable attitude in male teachers. Among primary and middle school teachers, primary teachers showed better knowledge and awareness. Conclusion:Most of the teachers showed satisfactory knowledge in some aspects of oral health, although improvements can be implemented by regular teacher training, such as oral health seminars and material activities. These fundamental measures empower and supports teachers to effectively convey oral health education to students and scociety.