bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of Emotional Tendency of Tourism Consumers Based on LSTM and Fuzzy Control Algorithm
Authors: Meng Wei , Ji Dajie , Wang Haoxin
Published: June 2024

Learning the emotional tendency of travelers improves their interests and provide optimal traveling recommendations. This, however, requires large volumes of data such as travel plans, visit sites, personal interests, value for money, etc. for a detailed analysis. For ease of such analysis, in this article, an organized combinational control method (OC2M) is proposed. This method relies on conventional long short-term memory (LSTM) and fuzzy control (FC) to support such analysis. The first is responsible for filtering non-repeated data from the previous travel/ tour history reducing the data discreteness. This is organized non-recurrently to prevent outdated/ trivial data from influencing the consumer’s emotional learning. The FC process filters the adaptable data with the future tour/ travel plan for providing optimal recommendations that are liable to the consumer’s emotional tendency. This is identified based on the user's interest, preferences, and emotional connectivity with the place or plan from previous histories. Therefore, the proposed method improves the recommendation and validation tendencies of the consumer’s travel plan accordingly.
Optimization-Based Fuzzy System Application on Deformation of Geogrid-Reinforced Soil Structures
Authors: Dou Huiru
Published: June 2024

When it comes to the geosynthetic-reinforced soil structures’ structural design, the analysis of deformation is of the highest relevance. In spite of this, the academic literature lays a substantial amount of attention on the potential of artificial intelligence approaches in efficiently addressing the many challenges that are faced in geotechnical engineering. The investigation of the possible use of approaches based on machine learning for the purpose of forecasting the geogrid-reinforced soil structures’ deformation ($${\text{Dis}}$$
Dis
) was the major focus of this study. These efforts are made to reduce the time and cost of numerical modeling. This study aimed to enable computers to learn patterns and insights from data to make accurate predictions or decisions about unseen data. This paper introduces novel systems that coupled the Beluga whale optimizer ($${\text{BWH}}$$
BWH
), Henry gas solubility optimization ($${\text{HGSO}}$$
HGSO
), gannet optimization algorithm ($${\text{GOA}}$$
GOA
), and Harris hawks optimizer ($${\text{HHO}}$$
HHO
) with adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system ($${\text{ANFIS}}$$
ANFIS
). A dataset was created by gathering 166 finite element analyses accomplished in the literature. Between four $${\text{ANFIS}}$$
ANFIS
systems, the integrated one with $${\text{GOA}}$$
GOA
got the largest accuracy value, accounting for 0.9841 and 0.9895 in the train and test stages, better than $${\text{ANF}}_{{{\text{BWH}}}}$$

ANF
BWH

, followed by $${\text{ANF}}_{{{\text{HH}}}}$$

ANF
HH

. It was seen from $${\text{U}}_{{{95}}} { }$$

U
95

that the $${\text{ANF}}_{{{\text{GOA}}}} { }$$

ANF
GOA

scenario exhibits the least level of uncertainty in comparison to other models, hence demonstrating its greater capacity for generalization. Between four $${\text{ANFIS}}$$
ANFIS
systems, the most accurate system with the lowest $${\text{OBJ}}$$
OBJ
value is $${\text{ANF}}_{{{\text{GOA}}}}$$

ANF
GOA

at 2.6098, followed by $${\text{ANF}}_{{{\text{BWH}}}}$$

ANF
BWH

at 2.8002. Sensitivity analysis depicts that removing the surcharge $$\left( q \right)$$

q

parameter from the input group has a considerable negative impact on output accuracy.
Heavy metal and mineral analysis of cultivated seaweeds from Cox’s Bazar Coast, Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh: a human health risk implication
Authors: Bhuyan Md. Simul , Kunda Mrityunjoy , Bakar Muhammad Abu , Senapathi Venkatramanan , Husain Sk. Abid , Chowdhury Enam , Ali Mir Mohammad , Pandit Debasish
Published: June 2024

Seaweeds are grown for their use in food and other sectors, however heavy metals (HMs) contamination raises serious issues for the environment and public health. This study focuses on seaweed samples (Hypnea musciformes and Gracilaria lemaneiformis) collected from the Rezu Khal seaweed culture site, Cox’s Bazar coast, Bangladesh. HMs and minerals were determined using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS). Among the elements examined, H. musciformes displayed the highest mean concentrations of minerals and HMs, including Magnesium (Mg) (8663.00 ± 2302.06 mg/kg), Copper (Cu) (10.59 ± 1.61 mg/kg), Iron (Fe) (7566.29 ± 2842.47 mg/kg), Manganese (Mn) (9.93 ± 2.88 mg/kg), Zinc (Zn) (29.54 ± 7.51 mg/kg), and Nickel (Ni) (11.77 ± 2.63 mg/kg). Conversely, G. lemaneiformis exhibited the highest levels of Calcium (Ca) (798.14 ± 143.40 mg/kg), Lead (Pb) (3.91 ± 1.74 mg/kg), and Chromium (Cr) (0.59 ± 0.30 mg/kg). Specifically, Mg was prominently abundant in H. musciformes, while Cawas more prevalent in G. lemaneiformis. Both seaweed types contained Pb and Cr. None of the elements was significantly different between the species (p < 0.05). The consumers are not exposed to any carcinogenic or non-carcinogenic risks related to these concentrations, according to the evaluation of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks.
A viscous effect of wave attractor in geometry with underwater peak
Authors: Elistratov Stepan , But Ivan
Published: June 2024

The influence of the viscosity on a wave attractor flow has been previously studied, particularly in relation to the widening of the hydrodynamical structures. In this work, we simulate an attractor flow with a peculiar bottom shape that includes an underwater hill. During the simulation, we discovered a side structure appearing beyond the wave attractor. We determined that the appearance of this structure is connected to viscosity. In this article, we consider the behavior of this newly found structure. Additionally, we discuss the challenges of energy accumulation and the estimation of the Reynolds number, which is a non-trivial problem in the context of wave attractor flows.
Rectal duplication in adult presented with constipation: a case report and literature review
Authors: Tantiphlachiva Kasaya , Sirimongkolkasem Jarongkorn , Patcharatrakul Tanisa , Gonlachanvit Sutep , Manasayakorn Sopark , Vongsaisuwan Mawin
Published: June 2024

Background

Rectal duplication is a rare congenital disease which is mostly diagnosed during childhood. Diagnosis in adulthood could be obscured as the presenting symptoms including difficult defecation, bloating, and abdominal distension would lead to other diagnosis. Constipation is common in female adult and conservative treatment is usually successful. Refractory constipation requires further work-up. However, rectal duplication is a rare cause of adult constipation.

Methods

We reported a 42-year-female who presented with chronic constipation which became intractable after total abdominal hysterectomy. Barium enema, CT scan, and colonoscopy revealed an additional rectal pouch connecting to the native rectum containing large fecaloma. Anorectal manometry showed dyssynergic defecation, rectal hyposensitivity but presence of rectoanal inhibitory reflex.

Results

Transabdominal resection of the rectal duplication pouch and protective colostomy was performed. After a course of biofeedback, the colostomy was reversed. The patient remains healthy at 4 years of follow up.

Conclusion

Rectal duplication could be a cause of refractory constipation in adulthood. A collection of fecal material via a connection with the native rectum led to a large symptomatic fecaloma.
Pharmacological insights into Flemingia grahamiana: a comprehensive review
Authors: Bawazir Abubakar Salam , Imam Shaikh Shoeb , Yahya Barrawaz Aateka , Abdulqawi Latifa Nasser A.
Published: June 2024

Flemingia grahamiana (F. grahamiana), a member of the Fabaceae family, is a plant of immense scientific significance. Its adaptability to tropical and subtropical climates, unique morphology, and a rich array of bioactive compounds like isoflavones, flavones, and chalcones make it a valuable candidate for drug discovery. With a history deeply rooted in folk medicine across diverse cultures and regions, F. grahamiana holds enduring therapeutic importance. This comprehensive analysis covers its botanical traits, taxonomic position within Fabaceae, traditional uses in folk medicine, and the chemical constituents responsible for its pharmacological effects. Its ability to thrive in diverse environments enhances its scientific relevance, shedding light on its evolutionary context within the Fabaceae family. The extensive ethnobotanical history underlines its potential in treating various medical conditions like antioxidants, cancer prevention, and antibiotics, shown in graphical abstract. In summary, F. grahamiana’s diversity, adaptability, and bioactive components make it a valuable resource for both traditional and modern medicine. This review’s compilation of information provides a comprehensive understanding of its potential to advance contemporary drug research and conventional medical practices.

Graphical Abstract
Geoscience Departments Can “Phone a Friend” for Support
Authors: Egger Anne , Robinson Walt
Published: June 2024

For a decade, the Traveling Workshops Program has provided customized assistance and expert facilitation to support geoscience groups as they adapt to shifting student and institutional interests.
Internal flow in sessile droplets induced by substrate oscillation: towards enhanced mixing and mass transfer in microfluidic systems
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , Zhou Peng , Simon Terrence , Cui Tianhong
Published: June 2024

The introduction of flows within sessile droplets is highly effective for many lab-on-a-chip chemical and biomedical applications. However, generating such flows is difficult due to the typically small droplet volumes. Here, we present a simple, non-contact strategy to generate internal flows in sessile droplets for enhancing mixing and mass transport. The flows are driven by actuating a rigid substrate into oscillation with certain amplitude distributions without relying on the resonance of the droplet itself. Substrate oscillation characteristics and corresponding flow patterns are documented herein. Mixing indices and mass transfer coefficients of sessile droplets on the substrate surface are measured using optical and electrochemical methods. They demonstrate complete mixing within the droplets in 1.35 s and increases in mass transfer rates of more than seven times static values. Proof of concept was conducted with experiments of silver nanoparticle synthesis and with heavy metal ion sensing employing the sessile droplet as a microreactor for synthesis and an electrochemical cell for sensing. The degrees of enhancement of synthesis efficiency and detection sensitivity attributed to the internal flows are experimentally documented.
Cancer cell plasticity defines response to immunotherapy in cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lorenzo-Sanz Laura , Lopez-Cerda Marta , da Silva-Diz Victoria , Artés Marta H. , Llop Sandra , Penin Rosa M. , Bermejo Josep Oriol , Gonzalez-Suarez Eva , Esteller Manel , Viñals Francesc , Espinosa Enrique , Oliva Marc , Piulats Josep M. , Martin-Liberal Juan , Muñoz Purificación
Published: June 2024

Immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) approaches have changed the therapeutic landscape for many tumor types. However, half of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) patients remain unresponsive or develop resistance. Here, we show that, during cSCC progression in male mice, cancer cells acquire epithelial/mesenchymal plasticity and change their immune checkpoint (IC) ligand profile according to their features, dictating the IC pathways involved in immune evasion. Epithelial cancer cells, through the PD-1/PD-L1 pathway, and mesenchymal cancer cells, through the CTLA-4/CD80 and TIGIT/CD155 pathways, differentially block antitumor immune responses and determine the response to ICB therapies. Accordingly, the anti-PD-L1/TIGIT combination is the most effective strategy for blocking the growth of cSCCs that contain both epithelial and mesenchymal cancer cells. The expression of E-cadherin/Vimentin/CD80/CD155 proteins in cSCC, HNSCC and melanoma patient samples predicts response to anti-PD-1/PD-L1 therapy. Collectively, our findings indicate that the selection of ICB therapies should take into account the epithelial/mesenchymal features of cancer cells.
Selected annotated instance segmentation sub-volumes from a large scale CT data-set of a historic aircraft
Authors: Gruber Roland , Reims Nils , Hempfer Andreas , Gerth Stefan , Böhnel Michael , Fuchs Theobald , Salamon Michael , Wittenberg Thomas
Published: June 2024

The Me 163 was a Second World War fighter airplane and is currently displayed in the Deutsches Museum in Munich, Germany. A complete computed tomography (CT) scan was obtained using a large scale industrial CT scanner to gain insights into its history, design, and state of preservation. The CT data enables visual examination of the airplane’s structural details across multiple scales, from the entire fuselage to individual sprockets and rivets. However, further processing requires instance segmentation of the CT data-set. Currently, there are no adequate computer-assisted tools for automated or semi-automated segmentation of such large scale CT airplane data. As a first step, an interactive data annotation process has been established. So far, seven 512 × 512 × 512 voxel sub-volumes of the Me 163 airplane have been annotated, which can potentially be used for various applications in digital heritage, non-destructive testing, or machine learning. This work describes the data acquisition process, outlines the interactive segmentation and post-processing, and discusses the challenges associated with interpreting and handling the annotated data.
Histological Hyperspectral Glioblastoma Dataset (HistologyHSI-GB)
Authors: Ortega Samuel , Quintana-Quintana Laura , Leon Raquel , Fabelo Himar , Plaza María de la Luz , Camacho Rafael , Callico Gustavo M.
Published: June 2024

Hyperspectral (HS) imaging (HSI) technology combines the main features of two existing technologies: imaging and spectroscopy. This allows to analyse simultaneously the morphological and chemical attributes of the objects captured by a HS camera. In recent years, the use of HSI provides valuable insights into the interaction between light and biological tissues, and makes it possible to detect patterns, cells, or biomarkers, thus, being able to identify diseases. This work presents the HistologyHSI-GB dataset, which contains 469 HS images from 13 patients diagnosed with brain tumours, specifically glioblastoma. The slides were stained with haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and captured using a microscope at 20× power magnification. Skilled histopathologists diagnosed the slides and provided image-level annotations. The dataset was acquired using custom HSI instrumentation, consisting of a microscope equipped with an HS camera covering the spectral range from 400 to 1000 nm.
Detection of COVID-19 by quantitative analysis of carbonyl compounds in exhaled breath
Authors: Xie Zhenzhen , Morris James D. , Pan Jianmin , Cooke Elizabeth A. , Sutaria Saurin R. , Balcom Dawn , Marimuthu Subathra , Parrish Leslie W. , Aliesky Holly , Huang Justin J. , Rai Shesh N. , Arnold Forest W. , Huang Jiapeng , Nantz Michael H. , Fu Xiao-An
Published: June 2024

COVID-19 has caused a worldwide pandemic, creating an urgent need for early detection methods. Breath analysis has shown great potential as a non-invasive and rapid means for COVID-19 detection. The objective of this study is to detect patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 and even the possibility to screen between different SARS-CoV-2 variants by analysis of carbonyl compounds in breath. Carbonyl compounds in exhaled breath are metabolites related to inflammation and oxidative stress induced by diseases. This study included a cohort of COVID-19 positive and negative subjects confirmed by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction between March and December 2021. Carbonyl compounds in exhaled breath were captured using a microfabricated silicon microreactor and analyzed by ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS). A total of 321 subjects were enrolled in this study. Of these, 141 (85 males, 60.3%) (mean ± SD age: 52 ± 15 years) were COVID-19 (55 during the alpha wave and 86 during the delta wave) positive and 180 (90 males, 50%) (mean ± SD age: 45 ± 15 years) were negative. Panels of a total of 34 ketones and aldehydes in all breath samples were identified for detection of COVID-19 positive patients. Logistic regression models indicated high accuracy/sensitivity/specificity for alpha wave (98.4%/96.4%/100%), for delta wave (88.3%/93.0%/84.6%) and for all COVID-19 positive patients (94.7%/90.1%/98.3%). The results indicate that COVID-19 positive patients can be detected by analysis of carbonyl compounds in exhaled breath. The technology for analysis of carbonyl compounds in exhaled breath has great potential for rapid screening and detection of COVID-19 and for other infectious respiratory diseases in future pandemics.
In silico analysis unveiling potential biomarkers in gallbladder carcinogenesis
Authors: Gupta Raviranjan Kumar , Bhushan Ravi , Kumar Saket , Prasad Shyam Babu
Published: June 2024

Gallbladder cancer (GBC) is a rare but very aggressive most common digestive tract cancer with a high mortality rate due to delayed diagnosis at the advanced stage. Moreover, GBC progression shows asymptomatic characteristics making it impossible to detect at an early stage. In these circumstances, conventional therapy like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy becomes refractive. However, few studies reported some molecular markers like KRAS (Kirsten Rat Sarcoma) mutation, upregulation of HER2/neu, EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor), and microRNAs in GBC. However, the absence of some specific early diagnostic and prognostic markers is the biggest hurdle for the therapy of GBC to date. The present study has been designed to identify some specific molecular markers for precise diagnosis, and prognosis, for successful treatment of the GBC. By In Silico a network-centric analysis of two microarray datasets; (GSE202479) and (GSE13222) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, shows 50 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with GBC. Further network analysis revealed that 12 genes are highly interconnected based on the highest MCODE (Molecular Complex Detection) value, among all three genes; TRIP13 (Thyroid Receptor Interacting Protein), NEK2 (Never in Mitosis gene-A related Kinase 2), and TPX2 (Targeting Protein for Xklp2) having highest network interaction with transcription factors and miRNA suggesting critically associated with GBC. Further survival analysis data corroborate the association of these genes; TRIP13, NEK2, and TPX2 with GBC. Thus, TRIP13, NEK2, and TPX2 genes are significantly correlated with a greater risk of mortality, transforming them from mere biomarkers of the GBC for early detections and may emerge as prognostic markers for treatment.
Low platelet count at admission has an adverse impact on outcome in patients with acute coronary syndromes: from the START Antiplatelet registry
Authors: Gresele Paolo , Guglielmini Giuseppe , Del Pinto Maurizio , Calabrò Paolo , Pignatelli Pasquale , Patti Giuseppe , Pengo Vittorio , Antonucci Emilia , Cirillo Plinio , Fierro Tiziana , Palareti Gualtiero , Marcucci Rossella ,   START Antiplatelet Registry Group, Riccini C. , Cesaro A. , Gragnano F. , Menichelli D. , Pastori D. , Cavallari I. , Denas G. , Zoppellaro G. , Di Serafino L. , De Rosa G. , Grossi G. , Piazzai C.
Published: June 2024

Some previous observations suggest that a low platelet count is associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS). However, most of the data come from post-hoc analyses of randomized controlled trials and from studies including thrombocytopenia developed during hospital stay. Our aim was to assess the impact of low platelet count at admission on cardiovascular outcomes and treatment approach in patients hospitalized for ACS in a current real-life setting in Italy. Patients admitted to Italian coronary care units for ACS were enrolled in the START-ANTIPLATELET registry. Baseline clinical characteristics and treatment at discharge were recorded. Patients were followed-up at 6 months, 1 year and yearly thereafter. Low platelet count was defined as a count at admission < 150 > 100 k/µl or < 100 k/µL. Among 1894 enrolled patients, 157 (8.3%) had a platelet count < 150 > 100 k/µl and 30 (1.6%) < 100 k/µl. The median follow-up was 12.3 months (0.4–50.1). patients with low platelets were older (72 ± 10.4 vs 66 ± 12.4 years, p = 0.006), more frequently males (82.9 vs 72.1%, p = 0.001), hypertensive (90.0% vs 70.4%, p = 0.03), with non-valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF) (17.1 vs 8.6%, p = 0.02), and peripheral arterial disease (11.5 vs 6.2% p = 0.01) and/or had a previous myocardial infarction (40 vs 18.7%, p = 0.008) and/or a PCI (14.6 vs 7.8%, p = 0.001) than patients with normal platelets. A slightly, but significantly, lower percentage of thrombocytopenic patients were treated with primary PCI (78.1 vs 84.4%, p = 0.04) and they were more frequently discharged on aspirin plus clopidogrel rather than aspirin plus newer P2Y12 antagonists (51.9 vs 65.4%, p = 0.01). MACE-free survival was significantly shorter in thrombocytopenic patients compared to patients with normal platelets (< 150 > 100 k/µl: 37.6 vs 41.8 months, p = 0.002; HR = 2.7, 95% CIs 1.4–5.2; < 100 k/µl: 31.7 vs 41.8 months, p = 0.01; HR = 6.5, 95% CIs 1.5–29.1). At multivariate analysis, low platelet count, age at enrollment, low glomerular filtration rate, low ejection fraction, a previous ischemic stroke and NVAF were independent predictors of MACE. A low platelet count at admission identifies a subgroup of ACS patients with a significantly increased risk of MACE and these patients should be managed with special care to prevent excess adverse outcomes.
Differential impact of COVID-19 non-pharmaceutical interventions on the epidemiological dynamics of respiratory syncytial virus subtypes A and B
Authors: Holmdahl Inga , Bents Samantha J. , Baker Rachel E. , Casalegno Jean-Sebastien , Trovão Nídia Sequeira , Park Sang Woo , Metcalf Jessica E. , Viboud Cécile , Grenfell Bryan
Published: June 2024

Nonpharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic have disrupted the dynamics of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) on a global scale; however, the cycling of RSV subtypes in the pre- and post-pandemic period remains poorly understood. Here, we used a two subtype RSV model supplemented with epidemiological data to study the impact of NPIs on the two circulating subtypes, RSV-A and RSV-B. The model is calibrated to historic RSV subtype data from the United Kingdom and Finland and predicts a tendency for RSV-A dominance over RSV-B immediately following the implementation of NPIs. Using a global genetic dataset, we confirm that RSV-A has prevailed over RSV-B in the post-pandemic period, consistent with a higher R0 for RSV-A. With new RSV infant monoclonals and maternal and elderly vaccines becoming widely available, these results may have important implications for understanding intervention effectiveness in the context of disrupted subtype dynamics.
Change in precipitation pattern over South Asia in response to the trends in regional warming and free-tropospheric aerosol loading
Authors: Jana Soumyajyoti , Gogoi Mukunda M. , Babu S. Suresh
Published: June 2024

Spatial and temporal shifts in rainfall patterns over South Asia and the adjoining Seas during the pre-monsoon season have been observed over the past 2 decades from 2000 to 2019. Aerosol particles suspended above the boundary layer are a contributing factor to these changes. These particles not only alter cloud characteristics, but also diminish the lapse rate, thereby suppressing convective activity, leading to precipitation anomalies. Over the past 2 decades, high-rainfall regions have experienced declining rainfall, while low-rainfall regions have received increased rainfall. Coinciding with notable anomalies in precipitation, contrasting trends in aerosol optical depth, particularly due to absorbing aerosols in the elevated regions of the atmosphere, are seen. Apart from aerosols, several factors are considered that are critical in modifying precipitation patterns over the study region, such as water vapor content, convective processes, and lower-level relative humidity. We observed a potential transport of excess water vapor by ambient circulation from the oceanic regions having reduced rain, such as Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea, to higher latitudes enabling precipitation anomaly at distant locations.
Evaluation of the benefits of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria and mycorrhizal fungi on biochemical and morphophysiological traits of Aloe barbadensis Mill under water deficit stress
Authors: Khajeeyan Rahil , Salehi Amin , Movahhedi Dehnavi Mohsen , Hamidian Mohammad , Hazrati Saeid
Published: June 2024

Aloe barbadensis is a drought-tolerant perennial medicinal plant with both nutritional and cosmetic uses. Drought is one of the main abiotic stresses limiting plant growth and development. However, the use of drought-resistant plants combined with beneficial soil micro-organisms could improve the effectiveness of biological methods to mitigate drought damage. This research aims to evaluate the effects of Funneliformis mosseae (MF), plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) (including Pseudomonas putida and Pantoea agglomerans), and their co-inoculation on the macronutrient status, antioxidant enzyme activities, and other morphophysiological traits of A. barbadensis under four irrigation regimes [25%, 50%, 75% and 100% of water requirement (WR)]. Three harvests were conducted, revealing that inoculation enhanced the survival rate and shoot fresh weight (SFW) compared to the control plants. However, at 25% WR, the SFW was reduced by 43% more than the control. across all harvests, while the PGPR + MF treatment showed increases of more than 19%, 11%, and 17% compared to the control, MF, and PGPR treatments, respectively. The results also showed that A. barbadensis exhibited innate drought tolerance up to a 50% WR level by enhancing physiological defenses, such as antioxidant enzyme activity. Inoculation increased the macronutrient status of the plant at all levels of irrigation regimes especially under severe drought conditions. The highest levels of nitrogen (N) (16.24 mg g−1 DW) and phosphorus (P) (11.29 mg g−1 DW) were observed in the PGPR + MF treatment at 100% WR. The maximum relative water content under MF inoculation and 75% WR (98.24%) (98.24%) was reached. PGPR + MF treatment alleviated drought-induced osmotic stress, as indicated by reduced antioxidant enzyme activities and electrolyte leakage. However, P. putida and P. agglomerans strains alone or in combination with F. mosseae increased plant yield, macronutrient uptake and antioxidant enzyme activity. This study underscores the potential of these PGPR and MF strains as invaluable biological tools for the cultivation of A. barbadensis in regions with severe drought stress.
Associations of ethylene oxide exposure with depression in American adults
Authors: Wang Meng , Liu Chao , Liu Quan , Bai Ruizhen
Published: June 2024

Ethylene oxide (EO) is an organic compound known for its high reactivity and negative impact on human health, but its adverse effects on depression remain poorly understood. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2884 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) between 2013 and 2016. Participants were classified into four groups according to quartiles of log10-transformed hemoglobin adducts of EO (HbEO) levels. A logistic regression model was used to estimate the association between EO exposure and the risk of depression. Finally, we evaluated whether the association was mediated by inflammatory factors. Individuals with depression exhibited higher levels of hemoglobin adducts of ethylene oxide (HbEO) compared to those without depression. After adjusting for all covariates, patients in the highest quartile of HbEO (Q4 group) had a higher risk of depression, using the lowest quartile (Q1 group) as the reference group [odds ratio (OR) = 2.21, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): (1.47, 3.40)]. Additionally, the relationship between EO levels and the prevalence of depression followed a non-linear U-shaped pattern. Furthermore, inflammatory cells showed a positive correlation with EO levels. Moreover, white blood cells and neutrophils significantly mediated the relationship between HbEO and the risk of depression with mediated proportions of 14.70 and 12.55%, respectively. Exposure to ethylene oxide increases the risk of depression. Inflammatory factors partially mediated the observed association between EO exposure and depression.
Superficial ocular vascular changes after orbital decompression in patients with thyroid ophthalmopathy measured by anterior segment OCT angiography; an observational study
Authors: Rafizadeh Seyed Mohsen , Heidari Mostafa , Aghajani Amirhossein , Montazeriani Zahra , Afshar Pedram , Mansourian Sajad , Masoumi Ahmad , Rajabi Mohammad Taher
Published: June 2024

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is a common ophthalmologic manifestation of thyroid dysfunction. Despite various imaging techniques available, there hasn't been a widely adopted method for assessing the anterior segment vasculature in TED patients. Our study aimed to evaluate alterations in ocular surface circulation following orbital decompression surgery in TED patients and investigate factors influencing these changes. Using anterior segment optical coherence tomography-angiography (AS-OCTA), we measured ocular surface vascularity features, including vessel density (VD), vessel diameter index (VDI), and vessel length density (VLD), both before and after decompression surgery, alongside standard ophthalmic examinations. Our AS-OCTA analysis revealed a significant decrease in most of the temporal vasculature measurements six weeks post-surgery (p < 0.05). However, differences in the nasal region were not statistically significant. These findings indicate notable changes in ocular surface circulation following orbital decompression in TED patients, which may have implications for intraocular pressure (IOP) control and ocular surface symptoms management. AS-OCTA holds promise as a tool for evaluating the effectiveness of decompression surgery and assessing the need for further interventions.
Genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the Nigella sativa (black seed) plastome
Authors: Lubna  , Asaf Sajjad , Khan Ibrahim , Jan Rahmatullah , Asif Saleem , Bilal Saqib , Kim Kyung-Min , AL-Harrasi Ahmed
Published: June 2024

In this study, the complete plastome sequence of Nigella sativa (black seed), was analyzed for the first time. The plastome spans approximately 154,120 bp, comprising four sections: the Large Single-Copy (LSC) (85,538 bp), the Small Single-Copy (SSC) (17,984 bp), and two Inverted Repeat (IR) regions (25,299 bp). A comparative study of N. sativa’s plastome with ten other species from various genera in the Ranunculaceae family reveals substantial structural variations. The contraction of the inverted repeat region in N. sativa influences the boundaries of single-copy regions, resulting in a shorter plastome size than other species. When comparing the plastome of N. sativa with those of its related species, significant divergence is observed, particularly except for N. damascena. Among these, the plastome of A. glaucifolium displays the highest average pairwise sequence divergence (0.2851) with N. sativa, followed by A. raddeana (0.2290) and A. coerulea (0.1222). Furthermore, the study identified 12 distinct hotspot regions characterized by elevated Pi values (> 0.1). These regions include trnH-GUG-psbA, matK-trnQ-UUG, psbK-trnR-UCU, atpF-atpI, rpoB-psbD, ycf3-ndhJ, ndhC-cemA, petA-psaJ, trnN-GUU-ndhF, trnV-GAC-rps12, ycf2-trnI-CAU, and ndhA-ycf1. Approximately, 24 tandem and 48 palindromic and forward repeats were detected in N. sativa plastome. The analysis revealed 32 microsatellites with the majority being mononucleotide repeats. In the N. sativa plastome, phenylalanine had the highest number of codons (1982 codons), while alanine was the least common amino acid with 260 codons. A phylogenetic tree, constructed using protein-coding genes, revealed a distinct monophyletic clade comprising N. sativa and N. damascene, closely aligned with the Cimicifugeae tribe and exhibiting robust support. This plastome provides valuable genetic information for precise species identification, phylogenetic resolution, and evolutionary studies of N. sativa.
Man versus machine: cost and carbon emission savings of 4G-connected Artificial Intelligence technology for classifying species in camera trap images
Authors: Smith James , Wycherley Ashleigh , Mulvaney Josh , Lennane Nathan , Reynolds Emily , Monks Cheryl-Ann , Evans Tom , Mooney Trish , Fancourt Bronwyn
Published: June 2024

Timely and accurate detection and identification of species are crucial for monitoring wildlife for conservation and management. Technological advances, including connectivity of camera traps to mobile phone networks and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms for automated species identification, can potentially improve the timeliness and accuracy of species detection and identification. Adoption of this new technology, however, is often seen as cost-prohibitive as it has been difficult to calculate the cost savings or qualitative benefits over the life of the program. We developed a decision tool to quantify potential cost savings associated with incorporating the use of mobile phone network connectivity and AI technologies into monitoring programs. Using a feral cat eradication program as a case study, we used our decision tool to quantify technology-related savings in costs and carbon emissions, and compared the accuracy of AI species identification to that of experienced human observers. Over the life of the program, AI technology yielded cost savings of $0.27 M and when coupled with mobile phone network connectivity, AI saved $2.15 M and 115,838 kg in carbon emissions, with AI algorithms outperforming human observers in both speed and accuracy. Our case study demonstrates how advanced technologies can improve accuracy and cost-effectiveness and improve monitoring program efficiencies.
Associations of tissue factor and tissue factor pathway inhibitor with organ dysfunctions in septic shock
Authors: Lehner Georg Franz , Tobiasch Anna Katharina , Perschinka Fabian , Mayerhöfer Timo , Waditzer Markus , Haller Viktoria , Zassler Birgit , Maier Sarah , Ulmer Hanno , Joannidis Michael
Published: June 2024

Coagulopathy, microvascular alterations and concomitant organ dysfunctions are hallmarks of sepsis. Attempts to attenuate coagulation activation with an inhibitor of tissue factor (TF), i.e. tissue factor pathway inhibitor (TFPI), revealed no survival benefit in a heterogenous group of sepsis patients, but a potential survival benefit in patients with an international normalized ratio (INR) < 1.2. Since an increased TF/TFPI ratio determines the procoagulant activity specifically on microvascular endothelial cells in vitro, we investigated whether TF/TFPI ratio in blood is associated with INR alterations, organ dysfunctions, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) and outcome in septic shock. Twenty-nine healthy controls (HC) and 89 patients with septic shock admitted to a tertiary ICU were analyzed. TF and TFPI in blood was analyzed and related to organ dysfunctions, DIC and mortality. Patients with septic shock had 1.6-fold higher levels of TF and 2.9-fold higher levels of TFPI than HC. TF/TFPI ratio was lower in septic shock compared to HC (0.003 (0.002–0.005) vs. 0.006 (0.005–0.008), p < 0.001). Non-survivors had higher TFPI levels compared to survivors (43038 (29354–54023) vs. 28041 (21675–46582) pg/ml, p = 0.011). High TFPI levels were associated with acute kidney injury, liver dysfunction, DIC and disease severity. There was a positive association between TF/TFPI ratio and troponin T (b = 0.531 (0.309–0.754), p < 0.001). A high TF/TFPI ratio is exclusively associated with myocardial injury but not with other organ dysfunctions. Systemic TFPI levels seem to reflect disease severity. These findings point towards a pathophysiologic role of TF/TFPI in sepsis-induced myocardial injury.
A genomic instability-associated lncRNA signature for predicting prognosis and biomarkers in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Lin Chunxuan , Lin Kunpeng , Li Pan , Yuan Hai , Lin Xiaochun , Dai Yong , Zhang Yingying , Xie Zhijun , Liu Taisheng , Wei Chenggong
Published: June 2024

Genomic instability (GI) was associated with tumorigenesis. However, GI-related lncRNA signature (GILncSig) in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is still unknown. In this study, the lncRNA expression data, somatic mutation information and clinical survival information of LUAD were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and performed differential analysis. Functional and prognosis analysis revealed that multiple GI-related pathways were enriched. By using univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis, 5 GI-associated lncRNAs (AC012085.2, FAM83A-AS1, MIR223HG, MIR193BHG, LINC01116) were identified and used to construct a GILncSig model. Mutation burden analysis indicated that the high-risk GI group had much higher somatic mutation count and the risk score constructed by the 5 GI-associated lncRNAs was an independent predictor for overall survival (OS) (P < 0.05). Overall, our study provides valuable insights into the involvement of GI-associated lncRNAs in LUAD and highlights their potential as therapeutic targets.
Evaluation of dose delivery based on deformed CT using a commercial software for lung cancer
Authors: Chen Jihong , Chen Kaiqiang , OuYang Min , Wang Guohua , Bai Penggang , You Hongqiang
Published: June 2024

This study employed a commercial software velocity to perform deformable registration and dose calculation on deformed CT images, aiming to assess the accuracy of dose delivery during the radiotherapy for lung cancers. A total of 20 patients with lung cancer were enrolled in this study. Adaptive CT (ACT) was generated by deformed the planning CT (pCT) to the CBCT of initial radiotherapy fraction, followed by contour propagation and dose recalculation. There was not significant difference between volumes of GTV and CTV calculated from the ACT and pCT. However, significant differences in dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and coverage ratio (CR) between GTV and CTV were observed, with lower values for GTV volumes below 15 cc. The mean differences in dose corresponding to 95% of the GTV, GTV-P, CTV, and CTV-P between ACT and pCT were − 0.32%, 4.52%, 2.17%, and 4.71%, respectively. For the dose corresponding to 99%, the discrepancies were − 0.18%, 8.35%, 1.92%, and 24.96%, respectively. These differences in dose primarily appeared at the edges of the target areas. Notably, a significant enhancement of dose corresponding to 1 cc for spinal cord was observed in ACT, compared with pCT. There was no statistical difference in the mean dose of lungs and heart. In general, for lung cancer patients, anatomical motion may result in both CTV and GTV moving outside the original irradiation region. The dose difference within the original target area was small, but the difference in the planning target area was considerable.
Potential diagnostic biomarkers for immunogenic cell death in elderly female patients with ischemic stroke: identification and analysis
Authors: Qin Lihua , Li Sheng , Cao Xi , Huang Tengjia , Liu Yixin , Chen Ouying
Published: June 2024

Ischemic stroke (IS) is of increasing concern given the aging population and prevalence of unhealthy lifestyles, with older females exhibiting higher susceptibility. This study aimed to identify practical diagnostic markers, develop a diagnostic model for immunogenic cell death (ICD)-associated IS, and investigate alterations in the immune environment caused by hub genes. Differentially expressed genes associated with ICD in IS were identified based on weighted gene co-expression network analysis and the identification of significant modules. Subsequently, machine learning algorithms were employed to screened hub genes, which were further assessed using Gene Ontology, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes, and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis. A nomogram mode lwas then constructed for IS diagnosis, and its diagnostic value was assessed using a receiver operating characteristic curve. Finally, alterations in immune cell infiltration were assessed within patients with IS, and the pan-cancer expression patterns of hub genes were evaluated. Three hub genes associated with ICD (PDK4, CCL20, and FBL) were identified. The corresponding nomogram model for IS diagnosis could effectively identify older female patients with IS (area under the curve (AUC) = 0.9555). Overall, the three hub genes exhibit good diagnostic value (AUC > 0.8). CCL20 and FBL are significantly associated with the extent of immune cells infiltration. Moreover, a strong link exists between hub gene expression and pan-cancer prognosis. Cumulatively, these results indicate that ICD-related hub genes critically influence IS progression in older females, presenting novel diagnostic and therapeutic targets for personalized treatment.
Bile acids and the gut microbiome are involved in the hyperthermia mediated by 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA)
Authors: Rana Srishti , Canfield Jeremy R. , Ward Christopher S. , Sprague Jon E.
Published: June 2024

Hyperthermia induced by phenethylamines, such as 3,4–methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), can lead to life-threatening complications and death. Activation of the sympathetic nervous system and subsequent release of norepinephrine and activation of uncoupling proteins have been demonstrated to be the key mediators of phenethylamine-induced hyperthermia (PIH). Recently, the gut microbiome was shown to also play a contributing role in PIH. Here, the hypothesis that bile acids (BAs) produced by the gut microbiome are essential to PIH was tested. Changes in the serum concentrations of unconjugated primary BAs cholic acid (CA) and chenodeoxycholic acid (CDCA) and secondary BA deoxycholic acid (DCA) were measured following MDMA (20 mg/kg, sc) treatment in antibiotic treated and control rats. MDMA-induced a significant hyperthermic response and reduced the serum concentrations of three BAs 60 min post-treatment. Pretreatment with antibiotics (vancomycin, bacitracin and neomycin) in the drinking water for five days resulted in the depletion of BAs and a hypothermic response to MDMA. Gut bacterial communities in the antibiotic-treated group were distinct from the MDMA or saline treatment groups, with decreased microbiome diversity and alteration in taxa. Metagenomic functions inferred using the bioinformatic tool PICRUSt2 on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that bacterial genes associated to BA metabolism are less abundant in the antibiotic-MDMA treated group. Overall, these findings suggest that gut bacterial produced BAs might play an important role in MDMA-induced hyperthermia.
Non-destructive evaluation method for track slabs damaged by impact of ice blocks detached from high-speed trains
Authors: Song Xiaolin , Fu Xuanran , Xiao Dingjun , Yi Cai
Published: June 2024

In winter snowy or rainy weather, the phenomenon of icing under rolling stock during high-speed operation is significantly severe, posing a potential risk of detachment and impact on track structures due to the presence of ice blocks with substantial mass and velocity. Therefore, it is crucial to develop an efficient method for characterizing and evaluating this impact damage in order to assess the service life of the track. To address this issue, the indoor ice impact tests were conducted on track slab models, and a comprehensive analysis was performed on non-destructive testing data before and after the impact test, including 3D surface morphology assessment, surface hardness and wave velocity measurements. Additionally, in order to verify the effectiveness of the nondestructive testing method, the frozen-thawed and not frozen-thawed track slab models were tested and their results were compared. The experimental results revealed that when impacted by ice blocks at a velocity of 100 m/s, small dimples formed on the surface of track slab models with the maximum depth measured at 0.0694 mm. There was a maximum increase rate in surface hardness amounting to 11.61%, and a maximum decrease rate in wave velocity measuring at 6.52%. Furthermore, the impact damage of the two models has been evaluated, the not frozen-thawed track slab model exhibited minor damage after impact, whereas the frozen-thawed track slab model demonstrated moderate damage in the contact region and minor damage outside of that region. The proposed non-destructive testing method effectively enables assessing the impact damage inflicted upon slab models while providing valuable insights for maintenance and repair strategies related to track slabs.
Fluorescence-based reagent and spectrum-based optical reader for lactoferrin detection in tears: differentiating Sjögren’s syndrome from non-Sjögren’s dry eye syndrome
Authors: Tsai Chia-Ying , Hong Chitsung , Hsu Min-Yen , Lai Tso-Ting , Huang Ching-Wen , Lu Cheng-Yo , Chen Wei-Li , Cheng Chao-Min
Published: June 2024

Identification of an early biomarker and effective testing device to differentiate dry eye disease secondary to autoimmune disease (Sjögren’s syndrome dry eye disease) from non-Sjögren’s dry eye disease are prerequisites for appropriate treatment. We aimed to demonstrate the capacity of a new photo-detection device to evaluate tear lactoferrin levels as a tool for differentiating systemic conditions associated with dry eye disease. Patients with non-Sjögren’s and Sjögren’s syndrome dry eye disease (n = 54 and n = 52, respectively) and controls (n = 11) were enrolled. All participants completed the Ocular Surface Disease Index questionnaire. Tear collection was performed with Schirmer test, and tear break-up time was examined using a slit lamp. Tear lactoferrin was evaluated using our newly developed photo-detection device. The average lactoferrin concentration was significantly lower in samples from patients with non-Sjögren’s dry eye disease (0.337 ± 0.227 mg/mL, n = 54) and Sjögren’s syndrome dry eye disease (0.087 ± 0.010 mg/mL, n = 52) than in control samples (1.272 ± 0.54 mg/mL, n = 11) (p < 0.0001). Further, lactoferrin levels were lower in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome dry eye disease than in those with non-Sjögren’s dry eye disease (p < 0.001). Our cost-effective, antibody-free, highly sensitive photo-detection device for evaluating tear lactoferrin levels can assist ophthalmologists in differentiating different types of dry eye diseases.