bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mood instability and low back pain: a mendelian randomization study
Authors: Liu Renyang , Liu Qian , Xu Shaoyong , Mei Rongcheng
Published: September 2023

Objective

Low back pain is a prevalent and debilitating condition worldwide, with significant implications for individuals’ quality of life and productivity. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between mood instability and the risk of developing chronic low back pain, using a rigorously designed mendelian randomization methodology.

Method

The study incorporated both univariate and multivariate mendelian randomization to analysis the causal relationship between mood instability and the risk of developing chronic low back pain. The data on mood instability from the Integrative Epidemiology Unit (IEU) opened Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) project (IEU-opened GWAS project). Data on low back pain were collected from two sources: One source is the IEU open GWAS project (discovery data). Another source is a GWAS meta-analysis (replication data). Inverse variance weighted method, weighted median method, MR-Egger regression, and mendelian randomization pleiotropy residual sum and outlier method were used for mendelian randomization analysis.

Result

The univariable mendelian randomization analysis shows a statistically significant correlation between mood instability and the risk of low back pain. Several methods were performed, including inverse variance weighting (discovery data: odds ratio = 3.544, 95% confidence interval = 1.785–7.039, p = 0.000; replication data: odds ratio = 3.167, 95% confidence interval = 2.476–4.052, p = 0.000), MR-Egger (discovery data: odds ratio = 7.178, 95% confidence interval = 0.057–909.525, p = 0.429; replication data: odds ratio = 2.262, 95% confidence interval = 0.580–8.825, p = 0.246), weighted median (discovery data: odds ratio = 2.730, 95% confidence interval = 1.112–6.702, p = 0.028; replication data: odds ratio = 3.243, 95% confidence interval = 2.378–4.422, p = 0.000), MR-PRESSO (discovery data: odds ratio = 3.544, 95% confidence interval = 1.785–7.039, p = 0.001; replication data: odds ratio = 3.167, 95% confidence interval = 2.476–4.052, p = 0.000) methods. The results were consistent across these methods. The results obtained from discovery data are consistent with those obtained from discovery data. In the multivariable mendelian randomization, after adjusting for various covariates such as body mass index, current tobacco smoking, alcohol intake frequency, Total body bone mineral density, and vigorous physical activity, there is a consistent correlation between mood instability and chronic low back pain.

Conclusion

This study provides robust evidence supporting a causal relationship between mood instability and the development of low back pain. Our findings suggest that addressing mood instability may play a crucial role in prevention and management strategies for individuals experiencing low back pain.
The degree of food processing can influence serum fatty acid and lipid profiles in women with severe obesity
Authors: Lopes Karem Lays Soares , Figueiredo Nayra , Kattah Fabiana Martins , Lima Glaucia Carielo , Oliveira Emilly Santos , Horst Maria Aderuza , Oyama Lila Missae , Dâmaso Ana Raimunda , Whitton Renata Guimarães Moreira , de Souza Abreu Valéria , Duarte Amélia Cristina Stival , Pimentel Gustavo Duarte , Corgosinho Flávia Campos
Published: September 2023

Background

The increase in the prevalence of obesity is associated with the increase in the consumption of ultra-processed foods and may be related to the increase in the disorders involving metabolism and the transport and storage of fatty acids.

Objective

To evaluate the effect of processed food consumption according to the degree of processing on the serum fatty acid levels and lipid profile of women with severe obesity.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study. Data were collected from anthropometric assessments, the food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and blood tests for lipidogram studies and serum fatty acid measurements. The foods consumed were identified through the FFQ and classified according to the degree of processing based on the NOVA rating, and the frequencies of consumption were transformed into scores, as proposed by Fornés methodology. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics, version 21. The significance level for the analysis was set at 5%.

Results

This study included 44 women with a mean age of 40.59 years and mean body mass index of 48.61 kg/m2. An inverse association was observed between the consumption of unprocessed and the occurrence of hypertriglyceridemia (p = 0.021) and levels of triglycerides (p = 0.047), total cholesterol (p = 0.030), and very low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (p = 0.039). The consumption of processed foods was positively associated with the presence of hypertriglyceridemia (p = 0.044) and omega 6/3 ratio (p = 0.001) and negatively associated with total omega 3 levels (p = 0.011). The consumption of processed foods was positively associated with total cholesterol (p = 0.041) and negatively associated with the omega 3/6 ratio (p = 0.001). A negative correlation was found between the average consumption of ultra-processed foods (at least once a week) and serum level of high-density lipoprotein (p = 0.035).

Conclusion

The consumption of processed and ultra-processed foods was associated with unfavorable lipid profiles and fatty acid levels in women with severe obesity. These results emphasize the importance of promoting the consumption of unprocessed food to mitigate metabolic disorders linked to processed food intake.
Polysaccharides: potential bioactive macromolecules for Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Peng Gong , Li Ming , Meng Zhaoli
Published: September 2023

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is one of the leading causes of death and disability. AD is a devastating disease that has caused an overwhelming burden. However, no disease-modified treatment was discovered. The approval of sodium oligomannate (GV-971) in mild-moderate AD patients has attracted great attention to investigate the role of saccharides in AD. Therefore, summarizing and explaining the role of saccharides in AD is urgent and promising. Recent studies showed that polysaccharides (PSs) potentially benefit AD in vitro and in vivo. PSs could alleviate the pathological damage and improve cognitive symptoms via (1) antagonizing the toxicity of abnormal amyloid-beta and tau proteins; (2) attenuating oxidative stress and proinflammation; (3) rebuilding neuroplasticity. PSs exhibit one-multiple pathological hits of AD. However, a thorough chemical investigation is needed for further study.
Primary mediastinal seminoma presenting with paraneoplastic anti-Hu encephalitis: a case report and literature review
Authors: Williams Chelsey M. , Allison Derek B. , Coleman Adam B. , Bardhan Roshmita , Miller Jordan D. , Myint Zin W.
Published: September 2023

Primary mediastinal seminomas are exceedingly rare tumors, often localized to the anterior mediastinum. They may present with numerous complications, including superior vena cava syndrome, chylothorax, and pericardial effusions. Less commonly, they may present with paraneoplastic encephalitis. In this report we describe a case of a 19-year-old male with no significant past medical history who presented with bilateral hearing loss, progressive neuropathy, and ataxia. Subsequently the patient was found to have mediastinal mass with a high-titer anti-Hu antibody. To our knowledge, only one other case of mediastinal seminoma presenting with anti-Hu antibodies has been described in the literature. In this report, we describe a rare case of mediastinal seminoma, describe treatment options, and discuss additional known cases presenting with paraneoplastic encephalitis.
A machine learning-based PET/CT model for automatic diagnosis of early-stage lung cancer
Authors: Wang Huoqiang , Li Yi , Han Jiexi , Lin Qin , Zhao Long , Li Qiang , Zhao Juan , Li Haohao , Wang Yiran , Hu Changlong
Published: September 2023

Objective

The aim of this study was to develop a machine learning-based automatic analysis method for the diagnosis of early-stage lung cancer based on positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) data.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using PET/CT data from 187 cases of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and 190 benign pulmonary nodules. Twelve PET and CT features were used to train a diagnosis model. The performance of the machine learning-based PET/CT model was tested and validated in two separate cohorts comprising 462 and 229 cases, respectively.

Results

The standardized uptake value (SUV) was identified as an important biochemical factor for the early stage of lung cancer in this model. The PET/CT diagnosis model had a sensitivity and area under the curve (AUC) of 86.5% and 0.89, respectively. The testing group comprising 462 cases showed a sensitivity and AUC of 85.7% and 0.87, respectively, while the validation group comprising 229 cases showed a sensitivity and AUC of 88.4% and 0.91, respectively. Additionally, the proposed model improved the clinical discrimination ability for solid pulmonary nodules (SPNs) in the early stage significantly.

Conclusion

The feature data collected from PET/CT scans can be analyzed automatically using machine learning techniques. The results of this study demonstrated that the proposed model can significantly improve the accuracy and positive predictive value (PPV) of SPNs at the early stage. Furthermore, this algorithm can be optimized into a robotic and less biased PET/CT automatic diagnosis system.
Advances in hyperbaric oxygen to promote immunotherapy through modulation of the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Wang Pei , Wang Xiao-Yan , Man Chang-Feng , Gong Dan-Dan , Fan Yu
Published: September 2023

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a relatively safe treatment method that has been used for a long time in the clinic. It has been proven that it can enhance the sensitivity of radiotherapy and photodynamic therapy for cancer. However, there are few studies on hyperbaric oxygen and immunotherapy. In this article, we summarize that hyperbaric oxygen therapy regulates the tumor microenvironment through various pathways such as improving tumor hypoxia, targeting hypoxia-inducing factors, and generating reactive oxygen species. The change in the tumor microenvironment ultimately affects the curative effect of immunotherapy. Therefore, hyperbaric oxygen can influence immunotherapy by regulating the tumor microenvironment, providing a direction for the future development of immunotherapy.
Clinical and research updates on the VISTA immune checkpoint: immuno-oncology themes and highlights
Authors: Noelle Randolph J. , Lines J. Louise , Lewis Lionel D. , Martell Robert E. , Guillaudeux Thierry , Lee Sam W. , Mahoney Kathleen M. , Vesely Matthew D. , Boyd-Kirkup Jerome , Nambiar Dhanya K. , Scott Andrew M.
Published: September 2023

Immune checkpoints limit the activation of the immune system and serve an important homeostatic function but can also restrict immune responses against tumors. Inhibition of specific immune checkpoint proteins such as the B7:CD28 family members programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) and cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen-4 (CTLA-4) has transformed the treatment of various cancers by promoting the anti-tumor activation of immune cells. In contrast to these effects, the V-domain immunoglobulin suppressor of T-cell activation (VISTA) regulates the steady state of the resting immune system and promotes homeostasis by mechanisms distinct from PD-1 and CTLA-4. The effects of VISTA blockade have been shown to include a decrease in myeloid suppression coupled with proinflammatory changes by mechanisms that are separate and distinct from other immune checkpoint proteins; in some preclinical studies these immune effects appear synergistic. Given the potential benefits of VISTA blockade in the context of cancer therapy, the second Annual VISTA Symposium was convened virtually on September 23, 2022, to review new research from investigators and immuno-oncology experts. Discussions in the meeting extended the knowledge of VISTA biology and the effects of VISTA inhibition, particularly on cells of the myeloid lineage and resting T cells, as three candidate anti-VISTA antibodies are in, or nearing, clinical development.
Utility of interventional endoscopic ultrasound in pancreatic cancer
Authors: On Wei , Ahmed Wafaa , Everett Simon , Huggett Matthew , Paranandi Bharat
Published: September 2023

Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) has an important role in the management algorithm of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), typically for its diagnostic utilities. The past two decades have seen a rapid expansion of the therapeutic capabilities of EUS. Interventional EUS is now one of the more exciting developments within the field of endoscopy. The local effects of PDAC tend to be in anatomical areas which are difficult to target and endoscopy has cemented itself as a key role in managing the clinical sequelae of PDAC. Interventional EUS is increasingly utilized in situations whereby conventional endoscopy is either impossible to perform or unsuccessful. It also adds a different dimension to the host of oncological and surgical treatments for patients with PDAC. In this review, we aim to summarize the various ways in which interventional EUS could benefit patients with PDAC and aim to provide a balanced commentary on the current evidence of interventional EUS in the literature.
Global cluster analysis and network visualization in organoids in cancer research: a scientometric mapping from 1991 to 2021
Authors: Tan Shunshun , Deng Jiali , Deng Haobin , Lu Lijun , Qin Zhenzhe , Liu Yu , Tang Lifeng , Li Zhonghua
Published: September 2023

Objective

In the last three decades, there has been a surge in research on cancer organoids using 3D culture technologies, which has resulted in the development of physiological human cancer models. This study aims to provide an overview of the global trends and frontiers in research on cancer organoids.

Methods

A total of 3189 publications on organoids in cancer research from 1991 to 2021 were collected from the Science Citation Index-Expanded (SCIE) of Web of Science (WoS). Bibliometric methods such as the R package “Bibliometrix,” Citespace, and VOS viewer software were employed to investigate and visualize bibliographic coupling, co-citation, co-authorship, and co-occurrence trends, as well as publication trends in the field of organoids in cancer research.

Results

From 1991 to 2021, there has been a significant increase in publications on cancer organoids, with most articles being from North America, Eastern Asia, and Western Europe. The USA had the highest number of publications, citations, prolific authors, and research funding globally. Cancers was the journal with the most publications, while Nature had the best total link strength. Harvard University were the most contributive institutions. The global research in this field could be classified into five clusters: chemotherapy study, organoids for drug screening, different models, molecular mechanism study, and organoid construction. These areas are expected to remain hotspots for future research.

Conclusions

The number of publications on organoids in cancer research is expected to increase based on current global trends.
Tangeretin attenuates bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis by inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition via the PI3K/Akt pathway
Authors: Li Jiang , Wei Qian , Song Ke , Wang Youxin , Yang Yuxin , Li Miao , Yu Jiaying , Su Guangxu , Peng Luyuan , Fu Bendong , Yi Pengfei
Published: September 2023

Background: Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a terminal pathological change in a variety of lung diseases characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix, for which effective treatment is lacking. Tangeretin (Tan), a flavonoid derived from citrus, has been shown to have a wide range of pharmacological effects. This study aimed to investigate the role and potential mechanisms of Tan on pulmonary fibrosis.

Methods: A model of pulmonary fibrosis was established by administering bleomycin through tracheal drip, followed by administering Tan or pirfenidone through gavage. HE and Masson staining were employed to assess the extent of pulmonary fibrosis. Subsequently, Western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), RNA sequencing, and immunohistochemistry techniques were employed to uncover the protective mechanism of Tan in PF mice. Furthermore, A549 cells were stimulated with TGF-β1 to induce epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and demonstrate the effectiveness of Tan in mitigating PF.

Results: Tan significantly ameliorated bleomycin-induced pulmonary fibrosis, improved fibrotic pathological changes, and collagen deposition in the lungs, and reduced lung inflammation and oxidative stress. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed a higher number of enriched genes in the PI3K/Akt pathway. Additionally, Tan can inhibit the EMT process related to pulmonary fibrosis.

Conclusion: Taken together, the above research results indicate that Tan suppresses inflammation, oxidative stress, and EMT in BLM-induced pulmonary fibrosis via the PI3K/Akt pathway and is a potential agent for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.
Lithium isotopes differentially modify mitochondrial amorphous calcium phosphate cluster size distribution and calcium capacity
Authors: Deline Marshall L. , Straub Joshua , Patel Manisha , Subba Pratigya , Grashei Martin , van Heijster Frits H. A. , Pirkwieser Philip , Somoza Veronika , Livingstone James D. , Beazely Michael , Kendall Brian , Gingras Michel J. P. , Leonenko Zoya , Höschen Carmen , Harrington Gertraud , Kuellmer Katharina , Bian Wangqing , Schilling Franz , Fisher Matthew P. A. , Helgeson Matthew E. , Fromme Tobias
Published: September 2023

Lithium is commonly prescribed as a mood stabilizer in a variety of mental health conditions, yet its molecular mode of action is incompletely understood. Many cellular events associated with lithium appear tied to mitochondrial function. Further, recent evidence suggests that lithium bioactivities are isotope specific. Here we focus on lithium effects related to mitochondrial calcium handling. Lithium protected against calcium-induced permeability transition and decreased the calcium capacity of liver mitochondria at a clinically relevant concentration. In contrast, brain mitochondrial calcium capacity was increased by lithium. Surprisingly, 7Li acted more potently than 6Li on calcium capacity, yet 6Li was more effective at delaying permeability transition. The size distribution of amorphous calcium phosphate colloids formed in vitro was differentially affected by lithium isotopes, providing a mechanistic basis for the observed isotope specific effects on mitochondrial calcium handling. This work highlights a need to better understand how mitochondrial calcium stores are structurally regulated and provides key considerations for future formulations of lithium-based therapeutics.
Impacts of salinity stress on crop plants: improving salt tolerance through genetic and molecular dissection
Authors: Atta Kousik , Mondal Saptarshi , Gorai Shouvik , Singh Aditya Pratap , Kumari Amrita , Ghosh Tuhina , Roy Arkaprava , Hembram Suryakant , Gaikwad Dinkar Jagannath , Mondal Subhasis , Bhattacharya Sudip , Jha Uday Chand , Jespersen David
Published: September 2023

Improper use of water resources in irrigation that contain a significant amount of salts, faulty agronomic practices such as improper fertilization, climate change etc. are gradually increasing soil salinity of arable lands across the globe. It is one of the major abiotic factors that inhibits overall plant growth through ionic imbalance, osmotic stress, oxidative stress, and reduced nutrient uptake. Plants have evolved with several adaptation strategies at morphological and molecular levels to withstand salinity stress. Among various approaches, harnessing the crop genetic variability across different genepools and developing salinity tolerant crop plants offer the most sustainable way of salt stress mitigation. Some important major genetic determinants controlling salinity tolerance have been uncovered using classical genetic approaches. However, its complex inheritance pattern makes breeding for salinity tolerance challenging. Subsequently, advances in sequence based breeding approaches and functional genomics have greatly assisted in underpinning novel genetic variants controlling salinity tolerance in plants at the whole genome level. This current review aims to shed light on physiological, biochemical, and molecular responses under salt stress, defense mechanisms of plants, underlying genetics of salt tolerance through bi-parental QTL mapping and Genome Wide Association Studies, and implication of Genomic Selection to breed salt tolerant lines.
Multi-target genome editing reduces polyphenol oxidase activity in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) grains
Authors: Wold-McGimsey Forrest , Krosch Caitlynd , Alarcón-Reverte Rocío , Ravet Karl , Katz Andrew , Stromberger John , Mason Richard Esten , Pearce Stephen
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Polyphenol oxidases (PPO) are dual activity metalloenzymes that catalyse the production of quinones. In plants, PPO activity may contribute to biotic stress resistance and secondary metabolism but is undesirable for food producers because it causes the discolouration and changes in flavour profiles of products during post-harvest processing. In wheat (Triticum aestivum L.), PPO released from the aleurone layer of the grain during milling results in the discolouration of flour, dough, and end-use products, reducing their value. Loss-of-function mutations in the PPO1 and PPO2 paralogous genes on homoeologous group 2 chromosomes confer reduced PPO activity in the wheat grain. However, limited natural variation and the proximity of these genes complicates the selection of extremely low-PPO wheat varieties by recombination. The goal of the current study was to edit all copies of PPO1 and PPO2 to drive extreme reductions in PPO grain activity in elite wheat varieties.

Results

A CRISPR/Cas9 construct with one single guide RNA (sgRNA) targeting a conserved copper binding domain was used to edit all seven PPO1 and PPO2 genes in the spring wheat cultivar ‘Fielder’. Five of the seven edited T1 lines exhibited significant reductions in PPO activity, and T2 lines had PPO activity up to 86.7% lower than wild-type. The same construct was transformed into the elite winter wheat cultivars ‘Guardian’ and ‘Steamboat’, which have five PPO1 and PPO2 genes. In these varieties PPO activity was reduced by >90% in both T1 and T2 lines. In all three varieties, dough samples from edited lines exhibited reduced browning.

Discussion

This study demonstrates that multi-target editing at late stages of variety development could complement selection for beneficial alleles in crop breeding programs by inducing novel variation in loci inaccessible to recombination.
Effect of entrepreneurial education and creativity on entrepreneurial intention in college students: mediating entrepreneurial inspiration, mindset, and self-efficiency
Authors: Li Yue , Cao Keyan , Jenatabadi Hashem Salarzadeh
Published: September 2023

Entrepreneurship in higher education is increasingly valuing entrepreneurial creativity as a significant driver for improving university students’ innovative abilities. The purpose of this study was to examine the direct influence of entrepreneurial education and creativity on entrepreneurial intention, as well as the indirect role of entrepreneurial inspiration, mindset, and self-efficiency. This study gathered survey responses from 448 university business students from three Chinese provinces of Shandong, Jiangsu and Zhejiang. The results indicated that entrepreneurial education and creativity have a positive and significant effect on entrepreneurial intent. In addition, the results demonstrated that the combination of entrepreneurial mindset, inspiration, and self-efficacy partially mediates the relationship between entrepreneurial education and entrepreneurial creativity. In addition, additional implications and restrictions are discussed in this article.
Reducing the risk of prenatal alcohol exposure and FASD through social services: promising results from the FAR SEAS pilot project
Authors: Okulicz-Kozaryn Katarzyna , Segura-García Lidia , Bruguera Carla , Braddick Fleur , Zin-Sędek Marta , Gandin Claudia , Słodownik-Przybyłek Luiza , Scafato Emanuele , Ghirini Silvia , Colom Joan , Matrai Silvia
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Within FAR SEAS, a multi-component evidence-based community intervention was implemented and evaluated in Mazovia (Poland), with the aim of preventing alcohol-exposed pregnancies, and therefore preventing FASD.

Methods

Multi-disciplinary professionals from different services (social, addiction, and psychology), recruited women of child-bearing age (pregnant and not pregnant) in local communities, screened them for alcohol risk, and allocated participants (n = 441) to groups for low- (70%), moderate- (23%), or high-risk (7%) of alcohol exposed pregnancy, to provide interventions tailored to their needs. The non-parametric sign test, testing differences between pairs of observations before and after intervention was used to evaluate the outcomes.

Results

Follow-up data (collected from 93% of participants) indicated positive changes in the key outcome variables: risky alcohol consumption dropped by 81%, contraception use increased by 15% and visiting a gynecologist increased by 39%; as well as in associated psychosocial risk factors (decrease in cigarette and drug use, domestic violence and depressive symptoms). No changes were noted in frequency of other service use (medical, psychological, or social). The most prominent changes were observed in the moderate-risk group.

Discussion

Changing risky behaviors (alcohol consumption and sex without contraception) to prevent alcohol exposed pregnancies is feasible at the local level, even without engagement of medical professionals. Key challenges, related to engaging professionals and local authorities, must be addressed; and procedures should be adapted to local contexts and needs.
Effects of smoking cessation on plasma clozapine concentrations in male patients with schizophrenia during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ma Botao , Fan Hongzhen , Qi Siyuan , Yang Fude , An Huimei
Published: September 2023

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate the effect of smoking cessation on plasma clozapine (CLO) concentrations in long-term hospitalized Chinese male patients with schizophrenia treated with CLO during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) data for CLO were collected at Beijing HuiLongGuan Hospital between December 1, 2019 (before smoking cessation) and January 31, 2020 (after smoking cessation) in this retrospective study. Fifty-three male smokers and inpatients with schizophrenia who were treated with CLO were included. Plasma concentrations of CLO were measured using high-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. The fagerstrom test for nicotine dependence (FTND) was used to assess smoking behavior.

Results

The plasma CLO concentrations and dose-corrected plasma CLO concentrations were significantly increased by 29.3 and 23.5%, respectively, after smoking cessation.

Discussion

The results suggested that clinicians and pharmacists should adjust the CLO dose based on changes in smoking status in patients stabilized with CLO during the COVID-19 pandemic. Careful TDM for CLO should be performed prior to dose adjustment，to reduce the increased risk of smoking cessation induced side effects, especially for older patients receiving multiple medications.
Exploring applications of blockchain in healthcare: road map and future directions
Authors: Singh Yuvraj , Jabbar M. A. , Kumar Shandilya Shishir , Vovk Olena , Hnatiuk Yaroslav
Published: September 2023

Blockchain technology includes numerous elements such as distributed ledgers, decentralization, authenticity, privacy, and immutability. It has progressed past the hype to find actual use cases in industries like healthcare. Blockchain is an emerging area that relies on a consensus algorithm and the idea of a digitally distributed ledger to eliminate any intermediary risks. By enabling them to trace data provenance and any changes made, blockchain technology can enable different healthcare stakeholders to share access to their networks without violating data security and integrity. The healthcare industry faces challenges like fragmented data, security and privacy concerns, and interoperability issues. Blockchain technology offers potential solutions by ensuring secure, tamper-proof storage across multiple network nodes, improving interoperability and patient privacy. Encrypting patient data further enhances security and reduces unauthorized access concerns. Blockchain technology, deployed over the Internet, can potentially use the current healthcare data by using a patient-centric approach and removing the intermediaries. This paper discusses the effective utilization of blockchain technology in the healthcare industry. In contrast to other applications, the exoteric evaluation in this paper shows that the innovative technology called blockchain technology has a major role to play in the existing and future applications of the healthcare industry and has significant benefits.
Application of flipped classroom combined with case-based learning in Introduction to Environmental Health Science
Authors: Li You , Cao Liang , Zhang Huixia , Pang Weiyi , Sun Yan , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To explore the effect of flipped classroom combined with case-based learning in Introduction to Environmental Health Science for the Master of Public Health (MPH).

Methods

The MPH Master’s class of 2022 was selected as the experimental group at Guilin Medical University from September to December 2022, and the flipped classroom combined with the case-based learning was adopted. The class of 2021 was the control group, and we taught them with the traditional teaching method. A self-designed questionnaire and academic performance were used to evaluate the teaching effects of the two groups.

Results

There was no difference in the paper score between grades 2022 and 2021, and the design question score of grade 2022 was higher than that of grade 2021. The difference was statistically significant (p < 0.05). The students in grade 2022 had a high overall recognition of the teaching effect of the flipped classroom combined with case-based learning in Introduction to Environmental Health Science.

Conclusion

The teaching method of the flipped classroom combined with case-based learning is more suitable than the traditional teaching method in the Introduction to Environmental Health Science for MPH. It can stimulate the independent learning ability of MPH students and improve their ability to use knowledge and an innovative spirit.
Knowledge is power? Cervical cancer prevention in female OB/GYNs compared to other female physicians
Authors: Hershkovitz Gal , Ochshorn Yifat , Michaan Nadav , Fiszer Elisheva , Grisaru Dan , Raz Yael
Published: September 2023

Cervical cancer (CC) screening and prevention are crucial responsibilities of obstetrician-gynecologists (OB/GYNs). Our study aimed to investigate whether knowledge impacts OB/GYNs’ (n = 42) adherence to CC prevention measures by comparing them to non-OB/GYN physicians (n = 80). An anonymous questionnaire collected demographic information, personal screening habits and evaluated their knowledge of CC prevention. Results revealed that OB/GYNs exhibited superior knowledge of CC risk factors and prevention compared to non-OB/GYNs. Of note, a lower percentage of OB/GYN residents correctly identified the recommended upper age limit for cervical screening and for HPV vaccination compared to attending OB/GYNs (50% vs. 83%, p = 0.04 and 11% vs. 50%, p = 0.01, respectively). Despite these findings, most physicians from both groups recommended HPV vaccination. Cervical screening rates were similar between OB/GYNs and non-OB/GYNs (75% vs. 83%, p = 0.3). Half of OB/GYNs initiated their own cervical screening, similar to non-OB/GYNs. Interestingly, residents had higher HPV vaccination rates compared to attending physicians, irrespective of specialty (OB/GYNs – 38.89% vs. 4.76%, p = 0.0149; non-OB/GYNs – 51.06% vs. 15.38%, p = 0.0028). In conclusion, contrary to the assumption that physicians prioritize personal well-being, our study reveals the opposite. While skilled in guiding patients through CC screening and prevention, female OB/GYNs often neglect their own health. OB/GYNs must also be educated and supported in safeguarding their health, setting an essential example for patients.
MicroRNA profiling in aplastic anemia reveals similarities between secondary myelodysplastic syndromes arising from clonal progression and de novo MDS
Authors: Chee Lynette , Koldej Rachel , Thio Niko , Ludford-Menting Mandy , Fox Lucy , Blombery Piers , Ritchie David
Published: September 2023

Aplastic anemia (AA) is a form of bone marrow failure (BMF) resulting in significant cytopenias and may progress with clonal evolution to myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML). MicroRNA expression is dysregulated in MDS/AML, but there are limited studies on its role in the pathogenesis of AA. Using stored bone marrow (BM) samples (n=81) from 52 patients collected between 2006 and 2019, we demonstrate key differences in miRNA expression between AA patients at diagnosis and de novo MDS patients (n=21). The five most significantly upregulated miRNAs in MDS patients (downregulated in AA) were miR-130a-3p, miR-221-3p, miR-126-3p, miR-27b-3p, and miR-196b-5p (adjusted p<0.001). However, at the time of AA clonal progression to secondary MDS/AML, no significant miRNA-based differences were identified, suggesting that the underlying mechanistic pathways between AA progression to MDS/AML and de novo MDS are similar. At diagnosis, miR-127-3p, miR-1271-5p, miR-301b-5p, miR-3934-5p, and miR-4531 (adjusted p=0.081) were upregulated in those whose AA eventually progressed in comparison with those without eventual clonal progression. Longitudinal molecular mutational analysis of myeloid genes in AA patients with disease progression revealed the acquisition of new mutations, mostly at the time of MDS/AML progression, with four patients developing mutations prior to morphological MDS progression. In contrast, no myeloid gene mutations were detected at diagnosis or follow-up in AA patients with no clonal progression. Using KEGG pathway analysis derived from miRPathDBv2.0, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, TGF-β, MAP kinase, prolactin, Hippo, neurotrophin, and FOXO signaling pathways were enriched in AA patients with clonal progression to MDS/AML; these pathways were similarly enriched in the de novo MDS cohort. These studies highlight the differing miRNA expression profiles in AA and MDS, in AA clonal evolution to MDS/AML, and the potential interplay with myeloid gene mutations acquired at the time of disease progression.
Water-energy-food-ecosystem nexus in India—A review of relevant studies, policies, and programmes
Authors: Jain Sharad K. , Sikka Alok K. , Alam Mohammad Faiz
Published: September 2023

Current approaches for utilization of resources in water-energy-food-ecosystem (WEFE) sectors appear to be unsustainable and sub-optimal because of silo-based approaches that ignore interconnectedness across these interdependent sectors. A nexus approach that considers the interactions and interdependence among the sectors helps overcome weaknesses of silo-based approaches to better address synergies and trade-offs. This paper discusses the concept of the WEFE nexus-based approach for achieving water, energy, food, and environment security in India and presents a review of recent relevant literature. The paper critically reviews the key Indian government policies and programmes in the WEFE sector to assess the synergies and trade-offs among them. More than ≈ 40 programmes across WEFE sectors were studied to understand the efforts underway in these sectors to attain the respective policy goals. Although the implementation of the nexus concept will depend upon the enabling government policies and programmes, we find that discussions on these aspects are missing in the literature. Our review shows that the policies of different sectors give inadequate consideration to the impacts of decisions on the other related sectors. Although the various programmes are appreciably contributing to the policy goals and security for respective sectors, there are significant overlaps among the programmes which could positively or negatively impact other sector(s). There is a need to quantify the trade-offs by using an integrated approach including modeling with the WEFE nexus lens. The study also discusses the key challenges and barriers in implementing the nexus concept in India and how to overcome them.
Simulating asteroid impacts and meteor events by high-power lasers: from the laboratory to spaceborne missions
Authors: Ferus Martin , Knížek Antonín , Cassone Giuseppe , Rimmer Paul B. , Changela Hitesh , Chatzitheodoridis Elias , Uwarova Inna , Žabka Ján , Kabáth Petr , Saija Franz , Saeidfirozeh Homa , Lenža Libor , Krůs Miroslav , Petera Lukáš , Nejdl Lukáš , Kubelík Petr , Křivková Anna , Černý David , Divoký Martin , Pisařík Michael , Kohout Tomáš , Palamakumbure Lakshika , Drtinová Barbora , Hlouchová Klára , Schmidt Nikola , Martins Zita , Yáñez Jorge , Civiš Svatopoluk , Pořízka Pavel , Mocek Tomáš , Petri Jona , Klinkner Sabine
Published: September 2023

Meteor plasmas and impact events are complex, dynamic natural phenomena. Simulating these processes in the laboratory is, however, a challenge. The technique of laser induced dielectric breakdown was first used for this purpose almost 50 years ago. Since then, laser-based experiments have helped to simulate high energy processes in the Tunguska and Chicxulub impact events, heavy bombardment on the early Earth, prebiotic chemical evolution, space weathering of celestial bodies and meteor plasma. This review summarizes the current level of knowledge and outlines possible paths of future development.
SITCoM: SiRGraF Integrated Tool for Coronal dynaMics
Authors: Udhwani Purvi , Shrivastav Arpit Kumar , Patel Ritesh
Published: September 2023

SiRGraF Integrated Tool for Coronal dynaMics (SITCoM) is based on the Simple Radial Gradient Filter used to filter the radial gradient in the white-light coronagraph images and bring out dynamic structures. SITCoM has been developed in Python and integrated with SunPy and can be installed by users with the command pip install sitcom. This enables the user to pass the white-light coronagraph data to the tool and generate radially filtered output with an option to save in various formats as required. We implemented the functionality of tracking the transients such as coronal mass ejections, outflows, and plasma blobs, using height–time plots and deriving their kinematics. In addition, SITCoM also supports oscillation and wave studies such as for streamer waves. This is performed by creating a distance–time plot at a user-defined location (artificial slice) and fitting a sinusoidal function to derive the properties of waves, such as time period, amplitude, and damping time (if any). We provide the option to manually or automatically select the data points to be used for fitting. SITCoM is a tool to analyze some properties of coronal dynamics quickly. We present an overview of the SITCoM with the applications for deriving coronal dynamics’ kinematics and oscillation properties. We discuss the limitations of this tool along with prospects for future improvement.
A Study on the Derivation of Atmospheric Water Vapor Based on Dual Frequency Radio Signals and Intersatellite Communication Networks
Authors: Nyamukondiwa Ramson Munyaradzi , Orger Necmi Cihan , Nakayama Daisuke , Cho Mengu
Published: September 2023

The atmospheric total water vapor content (TWVC) affects climate change, weather patterns, and radio signal propagation. Recent techniques such as global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) are used to measure TWVC but with either compromised accuracy, temporal resolution, or spatial coverage. This study demonstrates the feasibility of predicting, mapping, and measuring TWVC using spread spectrum (SS) radio signals and software-defined radio (SDR) technology on low Earth-orbiting (LEO) satellites. An intersatellite link (ISL) communication network from a constellation of small satellites is proposed to achieve three-dimensional (3D) mapping of TWVC. However, the calculation of TWVC from satellites in LEO contains contribution from the ionospheric total electron content (TEC). The TWVC and TEC contribution are determined based on the signal propagation time delay and the satellites’ positions in orbit. Since TEC is frequency dependent unlike TWVC, frequency reconfiguration algorithms have been implemented to distinguish TWVC. The novel aspects of this research are the implementation of time stamps to deduce time delay, the unique derivation of TWVC from a constellation setup, the use of algorithms to remotely tune frequencies in real time, and ISL demonstration using SDRs. This mission could contribute to atmospheric science, and the measurements could be incorporated into the global atmospheric databases for climate and weather prediction models.
3D Soft-Landing Dynamic Theoretical Model of Legged Lander: Modeling and Analysis
Authors: Wang Zhiyi , Chen Chuanzhi , Chen Jinbao , Zheng Guang
Published: September 2023

In this paper, a novel 3D (three-dimensional) soft-landing dynamic theoretical model of a legged lander is developed in detail as well as its numerical solution process. The six degrees of freedom motion (6-DOF) of the base model of the lander with mass center offset setting is considered in the model as well as the spatial motion (3-DOF) of each landing gear. The characteristics of the buffering force, the footpad–ground contact, and the inter-structure friction are also taken into account during the motion of each landing gear. The direct constraint violation correction is used to control the constraint stabilization of the nonlinear dynamic equation. Comparative studies between the results from the proposed model and the simulated model (built in MSC Adams) under four classical load cases show the validity of the model. Additionally, the influences of different types of contact force models, friction force models, and a friction correction model used in the soft-landing dynamic model are further investigated as a step toward understanding the soft-landing dynamic performance and the feasibility of the dynamic model method of a legged lander. The results indicate that a precise lateral force model of the footpad–ground contact is necessary to obtain the soft-landing performance of one lander during soft landing.
Investigation of Harmonic Response in Non-Premixed Swirling Combustion to Low-Frequency Acoustic Excitations
Authors: Bao Jinrong , Ji Chenzhen , Pan Deng , Zong Chao , Zhang Ziyang , Zhu Tong
Published: September 2023

The propagation mechanism of flow disturbance under acoustic excitations plays a crucial role in thermoacoustic instability, especially when considering the effect of non-premixed combustion on heat release due to reactant mixing and diffusion. This relationship leads to a complex coupling between the spatial distribution of the equivalence ratio and the propagation mechanism of flow disturbance. In the present study, the response of a methane-air non-premixed swirling flame to low-frequency acoustic excitations was investigated experimentally. By applying Proper Orthogonal Decomposition (POD) analysis to CH* chemiluminescence images, the harmonic flame response was revealed. Large Eddy Simulation (LES) was utilized to analyze the correlation between the vortex motion within the shear layers and the harmonic response under non-reacting conditions at excitation frequencies of 20 Hz, 50 Hz, and 150 Hz. The results showed that the harmonic flame response was mainly due to the harmonic velocity pulsations within the shear layers. The acoustically induced vortices within the shear layer exhibited motion patterns susceptible to harmonic interference, with spatial distribution characteristics closely related to the oscillation modes of the non-premixed combustion.
Bridging the Gap between Simulation and Real Autonomous UAV Flights in Industrial Applications
Authors: Perez-Segui Rafael , Arias-Perez Pedro , Melero-Deza Javier , Fernandez-Cortizas Miguel , Perez-Saura David , Campoy Pascual
Published: September 2023

The utilization of autonomous unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) has increased rapidly due to their ability to perform a variety of tasks, including industrial inspection. Conducting testing with actual flights within industrial facilities proves to be both expensive and hazardous, posing risks to the system, the facilities, and their personnel. This paper presents an innovative and reliable methodology for developing such applications, ensuring safety and efficiency throughout the process. It involves a staged transition from simulation to reality, wherein various components are validated at each stage. This iterative approach facilitates error identification and resolution, enabling subsequent real flights to be conducted with enhanced safety after validating the remainder of the system. Furthermore, this article showcases two use cases: wind turbine inspection and photovoltaic plant inspection. By implementing the suggested methodology, these applications were successfully developed in an efficient and secure manner.
A Research on Rotor/Ship Wake Characteristics under Atmospheric Boundary Layer Conditions
Authors: Li Guoqiang , Wang Qing , Zhao Qijun , Zhao Guoqing , Feng Fei , Wu Linxin
Published: September 2023

The environment for the shipboard landing and takeoff of helicopters is extremely complex and significantly affects their safe flight. To address the intricate characteristics of the flow field during these operations, a simulation method suitable for rotor/ship wake vortex interaction is developed. This method couples the Delayed Detached Eddy Simulation (DDES) method and the momentum source method. The simulation of flow field characteristics of the SFS2 ship model under different conditions reveals that, in a rotor/ship coupling scenario, the inflow velocity in the wake zone of the flight deck is distributed in a “W” shape due to the influence of the rotor blade tip vortex. Under wind shear conditions, the rotor’s influence on the wake is reduced, resulting in smaller velocity fluctuations compared to uniform inflow conditions. Moreover, the detached eddy is suppressed to some extent. It can be concluded that shear flow mitigates the unsteady characteristics of the ship’s wake zone to some extent, which is beneficial to helicopter operations during takeoff and landing.