bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing the topological properties of resting-state brain function network connectivity based on graph theoretical methods in patients with high myopia
Authors: Wei Bin , Huang Xin , Ji Yu , Fu Wen-Wen , Cheng Qi , Shu Ben-Liang , Huang Qin-Yi , Chai Hua , Zhou Lin , Yuan Hao-Yu , Wu Xiao-Rong
Published: February 2024

Aim
Recent imaging studies have found significant abnormalities in the brain’s functional or structural connectivity among patients with high myopia (HM), indicating a heightened risk of cognitive impairment and other behavioral changes. However, there is a lack of research on the topological characteristics and connectivity changes of the functional networks in HM patients.In this study, we employed graph theoretical analysis to investigate the topological structure and regional connectivity of the brain function network in HM patients.
Methods
We conducted rs-fMRI scans on 82 individuals with HM and 59 healthy controls (HC), ensuring that the two groups were matched for age and education level. Through graph theoretical analysis, we studied the topological structure of whole-brain functional networks among participants, exploring the topological properties and differences between the two groups.
Results
In the range of 0.05 to 0.50 of sparsity, both groups demonstrated a small-world architecture of the brain network. Compared to the control group, HM patients showed significantly lower values of γ (P = 0.0101) and σ (P = 0.0168). Additionally, the HM group showed lower nodal centrality in the right Amygdala (P<0.001, Bonferroni-corrected). Notably, there is an increase in functional connectivity (FC) between the SN and SMN in the HM group, while the strength of FC between the basal ganglia is relatively weaker (P<0.01).
Conclusion
HM Patients exhibit reduced small-world characteristics in their brain networks, with significant drops in γ and σ values indicating weakened global interregional information transfer ability. Not only that, the topological properties of the amygdala nodes in HM patients significantly decline, indicating dysfunction within the brain network.In addition, there are abnormalities in the FC between the saliency network (SN) , Sensorimotor Network (SMN), and basal ganglia networks in HM patients , which is related to attention regulation, motor impairment, emotions, and cognitive performance. These findings may provide a new mechanism for central pathology in HM patients.

Currently, there is a lack of research on the integration of
graph theory analysis and functional magnetic resonance imaging to
investigate the changes in brain functional region connectivity in
high myopia.
In order to improve the diagnosis of high myopia and provide
timely prevention of neurological diseases caused by changes in
brain function.
To provide new perspectives for future research on the
pathological and physiological mechanisms of high myopia.
Multimodal anomaly detection for high-speed train control system based on attention mechanism
Authors: Kang Renwei , Pang Yanzhi , Cheng Jianfeng , Chen Jianqiu , Zhou Jingjing
Published: February 2024

Accurate and rapid anomaly detection of train control systems is an inevitable requirement for ensuring the safe and efficient operation of high-speed railways. Currently, the manual offline fault diagnosis has issues such as ineffectiveness in fault locating and a relatively large scope of fault impact. In response, an anomaly detection model based on multimodal learning with the attention mechanism is proposed. According to the interrelated relationship between text logs and visual images representing equipment working status, a language-vision fusion two-stream multimodal neural network learning architecture is designed. The entire network structure, centred on the attention mechanism, learns the mapping relationship between inputs and outputs, simultaneously processes log generation of multiple sub-equipment, and separately focuses on the context of the text and changes in indicator light display at specific positions on the visual images. At the final decision-making layer, the learning results of language and vision are organically fused through logical operations, producing a unified output indicating the anomalous state of the system. Experimental results on real train operation datasets demonstrate the model’s superior performance in terms of precision and recall compared to other methods, validating its effectiveness.
Participatory forest restoration for sustainable livelihood: A case study from Himalaya
Authors: Sreenivasa Kottapalli , Semwal Rajeev Lochan , Maletha Ajay , Nautiyal Sunil , Maikhuri Rakesh Kumar , Saxena Krishna
Published: February 2024

Forest restoration based on the concepts of integrated, adaptive and co-management with active community participation was attempted in a village in the temperate region of Indian Himalayan region. Mixed plantation of multipurpose broad-leaved trees, bamboo and medicinal herbs selected by the inhabitants based on pooled traditional and scientific knowledge was established, with an understanding that funding will be limited to inputs unaffordable by people and will be terminated after economic benefit/cost ratio is > 1. Stakeholders would voluntarily maintain and upscale/outscale it thereafter and analysis of socio-ecological outcomes would continue for at least next 20 years. Accordingly, the funding was terminated after 7 years when economic benefit/cost ratio crossed the mark of one. Voluntary planting of Alnus nepalensis in gaps arising from gregarious flowering induced mass mortality of bamboo two years after cessation of funding maintained progression of recovery. After 20 years, the restored area had 17% of aboveground and 75% of belowground carbon stocks, and 39% of flowering species as compared to intact forests. Further, restored forest after 20 years was monetarily the most efficient land use even though there were no payments for its regulating ecosystem services. People maintained but did not upscale/outscale the forest restoration trial as also cultivation of medicinal herbs having high biodiversity conservation on farm land triggered by it. In the study village abandonment of cropping in 39% of private farm area and leasing 24% of it to a pharmaceutical company were the land use changes between 8th and 20th year of restoration. Nullification of carbon sequestration by forest restoration by emission from agricultural abandonment resulted in no net sequestration at landscape (village) scale. Land use/cover changes resulted in change in flowering plant species diversity at ecosystem but not at village landscape scale. There is a need of tailoring forest restoration as an activity enhancing traditional knowledge, culture and income of people, ensuring its synergy with other land uses/non-land activities and determining financial support for contribution of farm-forest cultural landscape mosaics to biodiversity conservation and climate change mitigation around biodiversity hotspots in developing countries
Effect of Goat Weed Leaf Meal (Ageratum conyzoides) as a Partial Dietary Replacement for Maize in the diet of African Catfish (Clarias gariepinus) Juveniles
Authors: Irabor Arnold Ebuka , Sanubi Jovita Oghenenyerhovwo , Ozor Augustine Onyemaechi , Onwuka Maureen , Olele Flourence Nkeonyeasua , Pierre Hardin Aaron Jn , Khalil Muhammad Faisal
Published: February 2024

It is crucial to find ways to employ less expensive conventional materials in fish farming to lower production costs without adversely affecting the general performance of the fish. Consequently, certain neglected plants, such as goat weed leaves that have been reported to have the potential to serve as a partial substitute for maize (energy source) must be considered. Therefore, this research evaluated the effects of partially replacing maize with goat weed leaf meal (Ageratum conyzoides) (GWLM) on the growth, haematology, and serum enzyme indices of Clarias gariepinus juveniles. A 56-day feeding trial was conducted with a total of 500 juveniles with an average weight of 13.7 g. After sterilizing in a mixture of potassium permanganate and water to reduce stress, a one-week acclimatization period was ensured using commercial feed (2 mm). Subsequently, they were randomly stocked in quadruplets of 25 fish per culture tank measuring 1.2 m x 1.2 m x 0.9 m each (labeled Ai-iv, Bi-iv, Ci-iv, Di-iv, and Ei-iv) based on the diet to be fed. A total of five (5) different diets with varying levels of dietary inclusion (0%, 2%, 4%, 6%, and 8%) of goat weed leaf meal (GWLM) as a partial replacement for maize were formulated to contain a minimum crude protein level of 40%. The test diets were administered twice daily (7:00 hrs. and 18:00 hrs.) and the sampled fish were adequately fed (5% body weight) with proper follow-up to monitor feeding behavior. The data collected from the research were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the SPSS version 23 analysis package. Furthermore, a Duncan multiple-range test was employed to separate the means. There were notable (p < 0.05) variations in various parameters (proximate composition, digestibility of nutrients, growth performance, haematological and serological profiles, and water quality) observed in all treatments as the inclusion of the test ingredient in the diet increased. However, as the inclusion levels of the test ingredient increased above 4%, a steady decline was observed between treatments. At a 4% dietary inclusion level, the best performance indices (weight gained (36.52g), feed conversion ratio (2.15), specific growth rate (2.31) and survival rate (95%)), and blood profile (haematology and serum enzyme indices) were observed. Therefore, a 4% replacement of maize using goat weed leaf meal (GWLM) in the diet is suitable for the optimum performance of African catfish.
Stochastic pharmacodynamics of a heterogeneous tumour-cell population
Authors: Truong Van Thuy , Vicini Paolo , Yates James , Dubois Vincent , Lythe Grant
Published: February 2024

Standard pharmacodynamic models are ordinary differential equations that lack the features of stochasti-city and heterogeneity. We develop and analyse a stochastic model of an idealised heterogeneous tumour-cellpopulation treated with a drug, where each cell has a different value of an attribute linked to survival.Once the drug reduces a cell’s value below a threshold, the cell is susceptible to death. The eliminationof the last cell in the population is a natural endpoint that is not available in deterministic models. Wefind formulae for the probability density of this extinction time in a collection of tumour cells, each with adifferent regulator value, under the influence of a drug. There is a logarithmic relationship between tumourpopulation size and mean time to extinction. We also analyse the population under repeated drug dosesand subsequent recoveries. Stochastic cell death and division events (and the relevant mechanistic para-meters) determine the ultimate fate of the cell population. We identify the critical division rate separatinglong-term tumour population growth from successful intermittent treatment.
Cost-effectiveness of Trastuzumab emtansine and Capecitabine plus lapatinib in adjuvant treatment of Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2– Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer in China
Authors: Yang Yibei , Ren Lanqi , Ren Ning , Pan Junjie , Xu Qiaoping
Published: February 2024

Background: Breast cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in women. Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) -positive advanced breast cancer has poor prognosis and short survival period. EMILIA was a global phase III study to evaluate the efficacy of Trastuzumab emtansine (T-DM1) and Capecitabine plus lapatinib. However, the cost-effectiveness of T-DM1 is still unclear. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of T-DM1 and Capecitabine plus lapatinib in treating HER2-positive advanced breast cancer within 5 years from the perspective of Chinese payers.
Methods: A half cycle adjusted Markov model was established to simulate the process of health status transfer and death of breast cancer patients under the treatment of T and CL schemes, so as to evaluate the cumulative lifetime costs, incremental cost-benefit ratio (ICER), and quality adjusted life year (QALY) of Chinese patients. The parameters of the input model were from the EMILIA Phase III study. In order to determine the stability of the model, we also conducted single factor sensitivity analysis and probability sensitivity analysis.
Results: Markov model analysis results showed that compared with Capecitabine plus lapatinib, T-DM1 treatment generates an additional 0.4QALY and an incremental cost of $12282.97. The ICER of T versus CL was $30707.405/QALY and did not exceed Chinese willingness-to-pay (WTP) threshold.
Conclusions: Compared with Capecitabine plus lapatinib, T-DM1 treatment can bring better health benefits to patients with breast cancer and is likely to be cost-effective second-line therapies for HER2-positive breast cancer in China.
High Dose Inhaled Corticosteroid Increased the Incidence of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis: Nationwide Population based Study
Authors: Lee Hyewon , Yoon Hee-Young
Published: February 2024

Background
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive disease found primarily in older people, with the use of systemic steroids linked to poor outcomes. However, role of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in IPF remains unclear. This This study investigated the association between ICS use and IPF risk using national insurance data, particularly in individuals with chronic airway diseases.
Methods
Utilising the National Health Insurance Service-National Sample Cohort database, our study included patients diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or asthma. ICS exposure was assessed via treatment claims, and IPF cases were identified using broad and narrow criteria. We used inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) with propensity scores for balanced covariate analysis.
Results
Of 57,456 patients (mean age: 55.9 years, 42.3% male), 16.5% used ICS and 83.5% did not. ICS users showed higher rates of broad (0.98 vs. 0.41 per 1,000) and narrow IPF (0.61 vs. 0.21 per 1,000) than non-users. Pre-IPTW, ICS use was associated with increased IPF risk; however, this was not significant post-IPTW. Post-IPTW, both continuous (broad adjusted hazard ratio [HR]: 1.03, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.04; narrow adjusted HR per 100 µg/day: 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01–1.04 post-IPTW) and high-dose ICS (≥ 1000 µg/day) (broad adjusted HR: 3.89, 95% CI: 1.61–9.41; narrow adjusted HR: 3.99, 95% CI: 1.19–13.41) use correlated with an elevated IPF risk. Subgroup analysis revealed an increased risk in medically aided.
Conclusion
High-dose ICS use may be associated with elevated IPF risk, especially in patients receiving medical aid.
Epidemiology and Prognosis of Sepsis in Cancer Patients: A Multicenter Prospective Observational Study
Authors: Ture Zeynep , İskender Gülşen , Şahinoğlu Mustafa Sehat , Özkara Ezel Beste , Kalem Ayşe Kaya , EryılmazEren Esma , Ürkmez Fatma Yekta , Çetin Sinan , Azak Emel , Erdem İlknur , Rello Jordi , Alp Emine , Ulusoy Ayten Merve , Kayaaslan Bircan , Çubuk Devrim , Yıldızhan Esra , Özet Gülsüm , Özbaş Hasan Mücahit , Keklik Muzaffer , Mehtap Özgür , Akpınar Seval , Dağdaş Simten , Akar Şebnem Şenol , İriağaç Yakup , Bulut Tuğba
Published: February 2024

Objectives
To determine the epidemiology and prognosis of sepsis in cancer patients and the influence of sepsis on the mortality of cancer patients.
Methods
In this multicenter, prospective, observational study, cancer patients hospitalized without sepsis followed up until discharge or a maximum of 90 days were included. The incidence of sepsis in the follow-up period, risk factors for sepsis, risk factors for 28-day mortality in patients with sepsis and 90-day mortality in the entire group were determined.
Results
During the study, 790 cancer patients were included. Sepsis developed in 72 patients (9.1%) during the follow-up. Older age, hospitalization due to any infection, graft versus host diseases(GVHD), prolonged neutropenia, the presence of a urethral catheter, and previous bacterial infection in the last three months were risk factors of sepsis. Among all cancer patients, sepsis was found to be the most important factor influencing 90-day mortality (OR 13.42(1.79–6.83)). Mortality among the sepsis cohort was independently associated with an infection with a carbapenem-resistant bacterium (OR 15.47(1.45–64.17)), appropriateness of empirical treatment (OR 5.02 (0.17–7.61) and having a clinical improvement on the fifth day of the treatment (OR 10.58(0.39–28.25).
Conclusions
Sepsis was documented in one out of 11 hospitalized cancer patients and the mortality rate increases 13-fold when sepsis develops. Invasive devices, prolonged neutropenia, GVHD, and previous bacterial infections were related with sepsis and antibiotic resistance was the most important driver for mortality. Antimicrobial stewardship, rational use of catheters (if necessary, in accordance with asepsis/antisepsis, short-term use) is important to save lives in cancer patients.
Transcriptomic analysis of lipid metabolism genes in Alzheimer’s disease: highlighting pathological outcomes and compartmentalized immune status
Authors: Sun Yue , Jiang Mengni , Long Xiang , Miao Yongzhen , Du Huanhuan , Zhang Ting , Ma Xuejun , Zhang Yue , Meng Hongrui
Published: February 2024

The dysregulation of lipid metabolism has been strongly associated with Alzheimer's Disease (AD); however, the biomedical implications and clinical relevance of these findings have not been systematically examined. Here, we conducted a comprehensive bioinformatic evaluation of AD-derived transcriptome datasets from postnatal brains and peripheral blood. We utilized differential gene expression and hierarchical clustering to identify co-expressed modules of lipid metabolism genes in patients based on their molecular functions in biological enrichment and molecular pathway analysis, association with pathological phenotypes, and molecular network correlation. Additionally, we analyzed the expression patterns of these genes in immune and nonimmune cells as well as cell type enrichments in both brain tissue and peripheral blood. By categorizing patients into distinct transcriptional clusters and stratified groups, we found enrichment in biological pathways for neurodegenerative diseases, oxidative phosphorylation, synaptic transmission, unexpected infections, and molecular functions for cellular translation and energy production in the stratified clusters and groups. Biological network analysis indicates striking differences between lipid-metabolism differential expression genes (DEGs) in the periphery and CNS, with restricted processes being enriched. Notably, neurons, glial cells involved in neuroinflammation, and peripheral blood immune cell infiltration revealed a marked disparity in the clustering subgroups in patients’ hippocampi and peripheral regions. Differentially expressed genes such as PLD3, NDUFAB1, OXCT1, PI4KA, and AACS in the brain and DBI, MBOAT7, and RXRA in the periphery correlate well with disease pathologies and immune cell preferences. These results suggest that lipid metabolism is critical for disease progression and immune cell activation, thus providing an innovative approach to diagnosing and treating AD.
Together but separate: A longitudinal study of how spatial context shapes the formation of social ties of women medical students
Authors: Blalock A. Emiko , Balmer Dorene F.
Published: February 2024

Developing and maintaining connections and relations with others, or what we refer to as the formation of social ties, may strengthen medical students’ sense of belonging in medical school. Social ties play a particularly important role for women medical students as the medical field remains largely dominated by masculine norms. However, forming social ties remains challenging for women in medicine. This study used the COVID-19 pandemic to examine how women medical students navigated the spatial contexts of medical school to form social ties. Using longitudinal qualitative research and narrative inquiry, it describes how 17 women medical students formed social ties during the early stages of COVID-19. Beginning in fall 2020, during the first two-years of medical school, the participants 1) described how personal social ties were deterred from forming in early experiences of medical school; 2) shared experiences that promoted a sense of community bonding during middle and later periods; and 3) expressed limitations of access to the formation of professional social ties throughout their first two-years. This study has important implications for understanding ways spatial contexts, access to physical connections, and the mental and emotional spaces play roles in social tie formation for women medical students and how longitudinal qualitative research can narrate these changes through time.
Psoas Muscle Index as a Predictor of Postoperative Outcomes in Gastrointestinal Cancer Surgery
Authors: Shokrollahi Nima , Nouri Mohammad , Eghlimi Hesameddin , Movahedi Alireza , Eshaghzadeh Mehdi , Rabbani Amirhassan
Published: February 2024

Purpose Psoas muscle index as an index of sarcopenia has a notable role in anticipating the outcome of various disorders. This prospective study aims to explore the efficacy of psoas muscle index in predicting the surgical outcomes of patients with gastrointestinal tumors.Methods All gastrointestinal cancer patients hospitalized for surgical treatment at our hospital between 2020 and 2023 were studied. Linear regression analysis compared psoas muscle index, age, and body mass index regarding hospitalization time and hand grip strength. Pearson's correlation test determined the strength and direction of the correlation between psoas muscle index and hospitalization duration.Results A total of 64 patients with a mean age of 57 years were included in our study to examine the potential association between psoas muscle index and length of hospital stay. Only psoas muscle index, compared to body mass index and age, demonstrates a statistically significant correlation with hospitalization time (r=-0.444, p < 0.001, CI -0.333 to -0.103). In addition, the impact of gender on this association is not substantial. The study also explored the correlation between hand grip strength and psoas muscle index in 62 participants. There is a significant association between age and psoas muscle index with right-hand grip strength (p = 0.000 and p = 0.014) and left-hand grip strength (p = 0.002 and p = 0.013).Conclusion Psoas muscle index potently predicts surgical consequences in gastrointestinal cancer patients and is essential in identifying high-risk patients and considering the risk-benefit ratio of surgical interventions.
Preoperative D-dimer and 5-year overall survival rate in patients diagnosed with gastric cancer and undergoing gastric cancer radical surgery: a Retrospective cohort study
Authors: Lu Hongxia , Zhao Yuanzheng , Han Jiaqi , Yang Rong , Wang Shuqin , Zhang Kai
Published: February 2024

Background
As one of the most malignant tumors of the digestive tract, gastric cancer has a high incidence rate and mortality rate in recent years, and lacks significant prognostic indicators. D-dimer, as a degradation product of fibrin, is a conventional biomarker for coagulation and has been studied to have potential promoting effects on postoperative cancer patients. However, there are also contradictory results, with some studies reporting a promoting effect, while others have not shown any effect. Therefore, the actual impact of D-dimer on the prognosis of postoperative cancer patients remains controversial, and further research is needed on the linear and nonlinear regression relationship and optimal critical values between D-dimer and postoperative cancer patients before surgery. Therefore, our aim is to evaluate the relationship between preoperative D-dimer and 5-year overall survival in patients undergoing gastric cancer radical surgery.
Methods
We used patients diagnosed with gastric cancer and underwent radical gastrectomy at Shanxi Cancer Hospital (Cancer Hospital of the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences) in 2017 to explore the relationship between preoperative D-dimer and prognosis of gastric cancer. We obtained preoperative D-dimer data and tumor related indicators as covariates from the hospital medical record system, and obtained patient follow-up information from the hospital follow-up system. This study used multivariate Cox regression, curve fitting, and inflection point analysis to explore the correlation between preoperative D-dimer and 5-year overall survival after gastric cancer radical surgery.
Results
After strict admission and exclusion procedures, a total of 133 patients were included in the study, and we classified them based on D-dimer. Divide D-dimer into two groups on average: high group (n = 66) and low group (n = 67). Subsequently, Cox multiple regression analysis was conducted using both continuous and binary variables. Therefore, the results showed no effect in continuous variables, but significant presence in categorical variables (Table 3). Therefore, we performed curve fitting, and in the curve fitting, preoperative D-dimer. The relationship between dimer and 5-year survival rate after radical gastrectomy for cancer shows a U-shaped or J-shaped curve with p < 0.001 (Fig. 2). Prove a curved relationship between preoperative D-dimer and 5-year survival rate after radical gastrectomy for cancer. Subsequently, we conducted an inflection point analysis (Table 2) (Fig. 2), BK. Hour: 110.449 (106.956 ,113.942).
Conclusion
In patients undergoing radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer, preoperative D-dimer There is a U-shaped relationship between dimer and 5-year postoperative survival in gastric cancer.
Quantum Secret Sharing with (m, n) Threshold: QFT and Identity Authentication
Authors: Mawlia Priyanka , Siwach Vikash , Bijaranian Pankaj
Published: February 2024

In the field of quantum cryptography, Quantum Secret Sharing (QSS) holds substantial importance, with identity authentication emerging as a key strategy for safeguarding information. It efficiently certifies the identification of both persons involved in the conversation, which contributes to increased security measures. Our proposal, a (m, n) threshold Quantum Secret Sharing (QSS) scheme introduces a unique approach to mutual identity authentication, utilizing mutually unbiased bases. During the secret recovery phase, the scheme ensures that secrets exclusively held by participants remain undisclosed and are not transmitted, reinforcing the security of the communication process. As a result, external eavesdroppers are left empty-handed in their attempt to access information about secrets during this phase. Our protocol surpasses in terms of security, effectiveness, and practicality, proving its resilience against intercept–resend attacks, collusion attacks, collective attacks, and forgery attacks according to a comprehensive security analysis.
A novel deformity correction manipulation system for better correction of large thoracic scoliosis
Authors: Huang Yong , Zhu Ce , Wang Yongliang , Feng Ganjun , Liu Limin
Published: February 2024

Background
Treating patients with large thoracic scoliosis (between 70° and 100°) poses technical challenges, particularly with traditional correction techniques (TCT). To address this, we developed a novel deformity correction manipulation system (DCMS) aimed at reducing surgical complexity and trauma. This study aims to assess the safety and effectiveness of DCMS in treating large thoracic scoliosis..
Methods
Seventy-six patients with large thoracic scoliosis were divided into two groups: DCMS (n = 34) and TCT (n = 42). Basic patient data including age at surgery, sex, etiology, Risser sign, flexibility of the main thoracic curve, instrumented levels, number of screws, duration of hospital stay, and follow-up time were collected and analyzed. Radiographic and clinical outcomes, as measured by various radiographic parameters and Scoliosis Research Society-30 (SRS-30) scores, were retrospectively analyzed and compared between the two groups. Adverse events were also documented.
Results
The DCMS group exhibited significantly shorter operative times, reduced blood loss, and shorter hospital stays compared to the TCT group. However, there were no significant differences between the two groups in terms of age at surgery, sex, etiology, Risser sign, flexibility of the main curve, instrumented levels, number of screws, and follow-up time. While preoperative major curves were statistically similar between the two groups, the DCMS group achieved a superior correction rate compared to the TCT group (74.2% ± 8.8% vs. 68.1% ± 10.5%). No significant differences were observed in other radiographic parameters, SRS-30 scores, or the incidence of adverse events.
Conclusions
The application of DCMS resulted in shorter operative times, reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and greater curve correction compared to TCT. DCMS proves to be a safe and effective technique for treating large thoracic curves.
Knockdown of LINC00467 inhibits gastric cancer progression by modulating the sequestration of miR-141-3p
Authors: Ju Hui , Feng Yi , Mu Xiaojing , He Weitai , He Guifang , Tian Ben , Cai Duo , Liu Changchang , Song Yu , Chen Hao , Liu Shihai
Published: February 2024

Background Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key targets associated with the incidence of gastric cancer (GC).Aims In this study, the ability of LINC00467 to regulate GC progression was evaluated.Methods The expression of this lncRNA was evaluated in the GEPIA database of human cancer samples, showing LINC00467 upregulation in 60 GC patient tumor tissue samples relative to paired paracancerous control tissues. Functionally, LINC00467 promoted glycolysis in GC cells and enhanced their proliferative, migratory, and invasive activities. From a mechanistic perspective, this lncRNA was able to bind microRNA (miR)-141-3p in GC cells, and a negative correlation between miR-141-3p and LINC00467 expression was observed in GC tissue samples.Results Inhibition of miR-141-3p partially reversed the effects of LINC00467 knockdown on GC cell malignancy, and LINC00467 was further found to control the expression of the miR-141-3p target gene dihydropyriminidase-like 3 (DPYSL3) in GC cells. Furthermore, lactate accumulation from glycolysis activated the Akt signaling pathway to promote the transcriptional expression of LINC00467 in GC cells, leading to persistent glycolysis and GC cell invasion.Conclusions These findings suggest that LINC00467 controls GC progression via regulating the miR-141-3p/DPYSL3 pathway.
Power-law relationship between the semi-major axis and the rotation period ratio in an eccentric system: Its physical meaning and applications
Authors: Dai Yongfeng
Published: February 2024

This study aims to address longstanding questions about orbital motion, introduces a synchronous orbit radius ratio and investigates the relationship between the semi-major axes and synchronous orbit radius ratios of known systems with the same mass ratio orders of magnitude, the same spin–orbit angles and eccentric or circular orbits, including binaries, star–planet systems and planet–moon systems. The results of this work show that in a system with an eccentric orbit (e > 0.01) and a mass ratio order with a magnitude higher than −7.5217, the semi-major axis exhibits a power-law distribution relationship with the product of the mass ratio and square of the rotation period ratio. Furthermore, under spin–orbit alignment conditions, the power-law exponent exhibits a positive linear relationship with the mass ratio order of magnitude and is greater than zero and less than or equal to one. Moreover, the power-law exponent for a spin–orbit misaligned system correlates negatively with its spin–orbit angle. This power-law relationship was derived based on a drag force caused by the gravitational field rotation proposed by extending Einstein’s equivalence principle. This study concludes that the power-law relationship and drag force dominate the formation of various orbits.
Restoration of the soil fertility under Cr (VI) and Artificial drought condition by the utilization of plant growth promoting Bacillus spp. SSAU2
Authors: Sharma Abhijeet , Singh Shailendra Kumar , Maurya Neetu , Tripathi Shashankmani , Jaiswal Saumya , Agarwal Manshi , Sundaram Shanthy
Published: February 2024

The study explores the potential of an indigenous halo-tolerant microbe identified as Bacillus spp. SSAU-2 in enhancing soil fertility and promoting plant growth for sustainable agricultural practices under the influence of multiple abiotic stresses such as Cr (VI), high salinity and artificial drought condition. The study investigated various factors influencing IAA synthesis by SSAU-2, such as pH (5 to 11), salinity (10 g/L to 50 g/L), tryptophan concentration (0.5 to 1%), carbon (Manitol and Lactose), and nitrogen sources (Peptone and Tryptone). The highest IAA concentration was observed at pH 10 (1.695 mg/ml) and pH 11 (0.782 mg/ml). IAA synthesis was optimized at a salinity level of 30g/l, with lower and higher salinity levels resulting in decreased IAA concentrations. Notably, the presence of mannitol and lactose significantly augmented IAA synthesis, while glucose and sucrose had inhibitory effects. Furthermore, peptone and tryptone played a pivotal role in enhancing IAA synthesis, while ammonium chloride exerted an inhibitory influence. SSAU-2 showed a diverse array of capabilities, including the synthesis of Gibberellins, Extracellular Polymeric Substances, Siderophores, and Hydrogen Cyanide along with nitrogen fixation and ammonia production. The microbe could efficiently tolerate 45% PEG-6000 concentration and effectively produce IAA in 15% PEG concentration. It could also tolerate high concentration of Cr (VI) and synthesize IAA even in 50 ppm Cr (VI). The findings of this study provide valuable insights into harnessing the potential of indigenous microorganisms to promote plant growth, enhance soil fertility, and establish sustainable agricultural practices essential for restoring the health of ecosystems.
The adverse effect of trial duration on the use of plea bargaining and penal orders in Italy
Authors: Paolini Gabriele
Published: February 2024

The average duration of first-instance criminal trials has steadily increased in Italy over the last twenty years. Over the same period, the use of both plea bargaining and penal orders has steadily decreased. This situation contradicts the predictions of the economic models of plea bargaining since longer trials, by imposing higher costs on both prosecutors and defendants, should result in a greater use of trial-avoiding procedures. The phenomenon can be explained by the unique regulation of the Italian statute of limitations: if trials last longer than a certain time threshold, defendants must be acquitted, regardless of the evidence collected against them. Hence, longer trials reduce defendants’ incentives towards the use of trial-avoiding procedures that result in a criminal conviction. In an instrumental variable analysis on a panel of 140 first-instance judicial districts over the period 2005–2021 I find that longer first-instance trials decrease the use of both plea bargaining and penal orders in Italy. The results of the analysis call for a reform of the Italian statute of limitations, considering its perverse effect on defendants’ incentives.
JEL Codes: K14; K41; K42.
Manufacturing and the synthesis of (CdTe)x: (S)1-x/PSi by laser-induced plasma technology
Authors: Shaker Abdulrhman. H. , Aadim Kadhim A. , Muhsen Riyam N.
Published: February 2024

In this work, the porous silicon (PS) layers were prepared with the electrochemical etching technique of the n-type silicon with the resistance (3.2 µm) in the hydrofluoric acid (HF) at a concentration of (1 ml )with the current density of (25 mA/cm2) with a (20) minute etching time. The morphological advantages (AFM) and the electrical properties of J-V were studied. The atomic force microscopy investigation displays the rough silicon surface, with the etching process (etching time) porous structure nucleates which leads to an increase in the depth and the average diameter (34.12 nm). Consequently, the surface roughness also increases. The electrical properties of produce PS; namely current density-voltage characteristics, show that Porous silicon has a sponge-like structure and the pore diameter is increased with etching current density which leads to an increase in the efficiency of Solar cell devices. This behavior was attributed to the increase in the depletion zone width which led to the increase in built-in potential.
Myocarditis and Pericarditis Following the COVID-19 Vaccination: A Single-Centre Case Seriese
Authors: Alshugair Nura , Helali Sumaya Al , Almousa Adnan , Elrasheed Mohammed , Sadraldin Rozana
Published: February 2024

The Surveillance of rare adverse events following vaccination, particularly related to COVID-19 vaccines, requires thorough examination. This paper investigates vaccine-associated myocarditis and/or pericarditis (VAMPS), presenting insights into clinical manifestations, management, and outcomes. Conducted at the Prince Sultan Cardiac Center in Saudi Arabia from March 2021 to May 2022, this retrospective case series comprises 20 patients with an average age of 27.9 ± 14.0 years, predominantly males (70%). Pfizer-BioNTech, AstraZeneca, and Moderna vaccines were administered in 74%, 21%, and 5% of cases, respectively, with 53% receiving the second dose, 26% the booster, and 21% the initial dose. Common symptoms included shortness of breath (60%), chest pain (50%), palpitations (40%), premature ventricular contractions (35%), and fever (25%). Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging revealed preserved left ventricular function (80%), subepicardial and/or mid-wall late gadolinium enhancement (65%), and lateral (39%), anterolateral (15%), inferolateral (15%), and anteroseptal (15%) segments affected. Myocarditis, pericarditis, and myopericarditis were diagnosed in 40%, 20%, and 40% of cases, respectively. C-reactive protein was elevated in two-thirds of patients. Recovery was achieved with anti-inflammatory medications, primarily colchicine (72%), aspirin(39%), and ibuprofen (33%). While no fatalities occurred, 30% experienced severe complications, and 15% had minor complications. In conclusion, VAMPS exhibits distinct characteristics and may lead to serious complications. Cardiologists should consider VAMPS in the differential diagnosis for symptomatic patients recently vaccinated against COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of ongoing surveillance and understanding of rare adverse events.
Holistic mind activity analytical models with systems and control theory
Authors: Zhang Long
Published: February 2024

Among the rich brain mind activities, two distinct modes have been identified: the driven doing mode often linked to mental health problem generation and the being mode known for its healing qualities. However, fully understanding these modes is challenging because measuring brain-mind performance is not straightforward and often indirect. In this paper, we propose a holistic approach, employing systems and control theory, to gain insights into these brain-mindful modes. In a typical control system, there are two main components: the controller, analogous to the brain-mind, and the system, which symbolizes the tasks and processes governed by the mind. By applying the framework of systems and control theory, we effectively interpret the two distinct mind modes through the concepts of open-loop and closed-loop (feedback) control strategies. Furthermore, the work in this paper primarily reveals that various brain-mind related issues, such as depression, delusion, and conflict, are often viewed as instabilities in control systems. We reinforce this perspective with numerical examples that not only illustrate the root causes of these issues but also highlight how altering goals, controllers, and models within brain-mind systems can potentially alleviate these problems. Finally, the work explores how mindfulness and biofeedback practices can be interpreted within the framework of systems and control theory, enhancing our understanding of these practices.
Feature-based visual odometry with fusion of optical flow method in weak texture environment
Authors: Han Yongchen , Wu Weichao , Lan Hongyu , Bai Chen , Wu Guoqiang , Guo Zhiming
Published: February 2024

Feature-based visual odometry has difficulty in feature extraction and matching in weak texture environment, resulting in substantial inter-frame pose resolution errors. Meanwhile, the computation and matching of feature point descriptors can be time-consuming and computationally inefficient. To address these issues encountered by traditional ORB-SLAM odometry in texture-lacking regions, an enhanced method for visual odometry estimation is proposed. First, the quadtree technique is employed to extract ORB feature points with a uniform distribution and an adequate number. Subsequently, when processing non-critical frames, the optical flow method is utilized to predict the precise locations of the feature points, circumventing the need for feature matching. Following this, the random sampling consistency method is applied to eliminate mismatched points in optical flow tracking, ensuring that only high-quality internal points are retained. Afterwards, a system of nonlinear equations is solved using AP3P method to estimate the precise position of the camera. Finally, the trajectory is optimized by Dogleg algorithm to achieve accurate and stable tracking and positioning. The experimental results demonstrate that the improved algorithm outperforms mainstream ORB-SLAM3 algorithm in terms of operation efficiency and positioning accuracy across multiple experimental scenarios. This method effectively addresses the challenges of low tracking accuracy and poor real-time performance commonly encountered by traditional visual odometers operating in weak texture environments. As a result, the method combining the feature-based method and the optical flow method significantly enhances the application of visual odometry in complex environments by improving the tracking stability, motion estimation accuracy, and real-time performance.
Population ecology of the red wing grasshopper, Celes skalozubovi akitanus (Orthoptera, Acrididae) in Japan
Authors: OKATSU Yutaro , NAGAHATA Yoshiyuki , TSUTSUMI Tadaaki
Published: February 2024

The red wing grasshopper, Celes skalozubovi akitanus has been declined rapidly in Japan, and only a few populations have been recorded. Information about ecological characteristics such as food plants, phenology and mating behavior are strictly limited, and population demographics of the grasshopper in its habitat is still unknown. Consequently, conservation actions for C. s. akitanus population are urgently needed in Japan. We studied the population structure and basic ecology of C. s. akitanus, to enable the conservation management of the grasshopper and its habitat. A field survey using the transect counts and mark release recapture method was conducted for two years (2016 and 2017). We revealed that C. s. akitanus in the study area fed on a variety of grassland plants but not on the dominant Miscanthus sinensis and Pteridium aquilinum. The recapture rate of C. s. akitanus is considerably high, about 68% or more, and the two isolated populations were found in the studied grassland. The estimated total population size is less than 120 to 140 individuals, indicating that the studied population is extremely small. Our results showed that this species has a strong sedentary behavior because most of the adults move less than 5 m in one season, and strongly prefer a bare ground within the grassland. The continuing implementation of annual prescribed burning and partial mowing in the habitat is important for the conservation of C. s. akitanus. In addition, creating continuity between two populations is effective for the survival of populations in this study area.
Forecasting of Reservoir Water Level by Remote Sensing and Deep Learning
Authors: Jin Yifan , Liu Dandan , Huang Jinhui
Published: February 2024

Accurate reservoir water level prediction is crucial for the safe operation of reservoirs and the utilization of their functions. Traditional physical-based water level forecasting methods rely heavily on auxiliary data, such as precipitation and reservoir outflow. However, obtaining timely and reliable data on reservoir discharge flow can be expensive and impractical due to limitations in infrastructure or data accessibility. To address this issue, the current study utilized multi-source remote sensing data to extract a time series of reservoir storage volume. A technical framework for predicting water levels using deep learning models and remote sensing technology was proposed. To validate the effectiveness of this method, we compared the predictive accuracy of reservoir water levels among 16 different machine learning input scenarios. The results indicate that the model incorporating water level, rainfall, water surface area, and daily changes in reservoir storage volume as input data performed the best. Compared to the input data that did not consider water surface area and daily changes in reservoir storage, it demonstrated higher accuracy, with an increase in R2 value by 1.13%, RMSE increased by 52.17%, and MAE increased by 63.80%. The framework proposed in this study offers a reliable method for predicting reservoir water levels in the absence of operational data for reservoirs.
On the variation of small-amplitude Forbush decreaseswith solar-geomagnetic parameters
Authors: Ugwu Chukwuebuka J. , Okike Ogbonnaya , Menteso Firew M. , Alhassan Jibrin A. , Obiegbuna Dominic C. , Chukwude Augustine E. , Ugwoke Romanus E. , Iyida Evaristus U. , Eya Innocent O. , Enwelum Ugochukwu C. , Orji Orji P.
Published: February 2024

Detection of weak signals remains challeng-ing in astrophysics. This is particularly applicable inthe investigation of Forbush events. There is thus,a paucity of catalogs of small-amplitude Forbush de-creases (FDs). Detail investigations of the space-weather implications of small FDs are, thus, lacking inthe literature. Recently, large catalogs of weak FDs, forthe ﬁrst time, have been published. This work employsthe newly created lists of small-amplitude FDs to inves-tigate the statistical link between small FDs and solar-geomagnetic variables. The solar-geomagnetic variableswere obtained from the OMNI database. A simple co-incident R software code was employed in matchingthe related solar-geomagnetic variables with the weakForbush events. The FD dates were taken as the inputsignal. Scatter plots of FD-IMF, FD-SWS, FD-Kp, FD-Ap reveal a negative relationship, while that of FD-Dstshows a positive relationship. Statistical signiﬁcanceof these relations were tested. The small-amplitudeFDs and solar-geomagnetic variables at Potchefstroom(PTFM) station register statistically signiﬁcant rela-tions. Non-statistically signiﬁcant correlation betweenthe small-amplitude FDs and solar-geomagnetic vari-ables were obtained at South Pole (SOPO) station, withthe exception of FD-SWS that reveals statistically sig-niﬁcant correlation. The diﬀerences in the correlationresults obtained at the two stations (PTFM and SOPO)could be attributed to the diﬀerences in the character-istics of the NM stations. These results suggest that geomagnetic storm indices play important role in theevolution of FDs.