bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, Fabrication and Testing of a Multifrequency Microstrip RFID Tag Antenna on Si
Authors: Korfiati Timothea , Vazouras Christos N. , Bolakis Christos , Stavrinidis Antonis , Stavrinidis Giorgos , Arapogianni Aggeliki
Published: May 2024

A configurable design of a microstrip square spiral RFID tag antenna, for a wide range of microwave frequencies in S- and C-band, is presented. The design is parameterized in dimensions, and hence changing the design frequency (or frequencies) is easy, by changing only an initial value for the spiral geometry. A tag specimen was fabricated using Cu electroplating technique according to the design for frequencies of interest in the areas of 2.4 and 5.8 GHz. The substrate material is a 320 μm high resistivity Si and the bridge dielectric is a 15μm polyimide PI2525. The microfabrication process involves steps of metallic structure pattern transfer techniques with optical UV lithography procedures. The reflection coefficient and gain of the specimen were measured inside an anechoic enclosure using a vector network analyzer (VNA) and a TEM horn test antenna over a frequency range of up to 6 GHz. Simulated and measured results are presented and discussed, exhibiting reasonable agreement.
Chimeric Viruses Enable Study of Antibody Responses to Human Rotaviruses in Mice
Authors: Woodyear Sarah , Chandler Tawny L , Kawagishi Takahiro , Lonergan Tom M , Patel Vanshika A , Williams Caitlin A , Permar Sallie R , Ding Siyuan , Caddy Sarah L
Published: May 2024

The leading cause of gastroenteritis in children under the age of five is rotavirus infection, accounting for 37% of diarrhoeal deaths in infants and young children globally. Oral rotavirus vaccines have been widely incorporated into national immunisation programs, but whilst these vaccines have excellent efficacy in high-income countries, they protect less than 50% of vaccinated individuals in low- and middle-income countries. In order to facilitate the development of improved vaccine strategies, a greater understanding of the immune response to existing vaccines is urgently needed. However, the use of mouse models to study immune responses to human rotavirus strains is currently limited as rotaviruses are highly species-specific and replication of human rotaviruses is minimal in mice. To enable characterisation of immune responses to human rotavirus in mice, we have generated chimeric viruses that combat the issue of rotavirus host range restriction. Using reverse genetics, the rotavirus outer capsid proteins (VP4 and VP7) from either human or murine rotavirus strains were encoded in a murine rotavirus backbone. Neonatal mice were infected with chimeric viruses and monitored daily for development of diarrhoea. Stool samples were collected to quantify viral shedding, and antibody responses were comprehensively evaluated. We demonstrated that chimeric rotaviruses were able to efficiently replicate in mice. Moreover, the chimeric rotavirus containing human rotavirus outer capsid proteins elicited a robust antibody response to human rotavirus antigens, whilst the control chimeric murine rotavirus did not. This chimeric human rotavirus therefore provides a new strategy for studying human rotavirus-specific immunity, and could be used to investigate factors causing variability in rotavirus vaccine efficacy. This small animal platform therefore has the potential to test the efficacy of new vaccines and antibody-based therapeutics.
The Relevance of β-Thalassemia Heterozygosity in Pediatric Clinical Practice: Croatian Experience
Authors: Dordevic Ana , Ugrin Milena , Sutic Ines Mrakovcic , Roganovic Jelena , Pavlovic Sonja
Published: May 2024

Thalassemia syndromes are common monogenic disorders that represent a significant global health issue. No systematic epidemiological and molecular investigations on thalassemias in Croatian population have been reported to date. This prospective study included 70 children with a presumptive diagnosis of thalassemia, and their 42 first-degree relatives. Molecular characterization was performed using direct sequencing and gap-PCR methods. We identified 46 (30 children and 16 first-degree relatives) β-thalassemia heterozygous carriers from 24 unrelated families, carrying eight different mutations and one hemoglobin variant. Five variants account for approximately 85% of all affected β-globin alleles: Hb Lepore-Boston-Washington (32,6%), HBB: c.93-21G>A (19,6%), HBB:c.315+1G>A (13,1%), HBB:c.92+1G>A (10,9%), and HBB:c.92+6T>C variant (8,7%). A need for more detailed genetic profiling of β-thalassemia carriers is emphasized since genetic modifiers can significantly impact their phenotype. Our study provides important new insights into the relevance of β-thalassemia heterozygosity in the pediatric clinical practice.
Scenario Analysis of Shoreline, Coastal Erosion, and Landuse/Land Cover Changes and Their Implication on Climate Migration in East and West Africa
Authors: Ideki Oye , Ajoku Osinachi
Published: May 2024

Climate change-induced Sea level rise, shoreline changes, and coastal erosion are projected to drive massive population displacement and mobility in Africa. This study was conducted to examine the pattern of shoreline changes, coastal erosion, land use/Land cover dynamics their projections, and its implications on internal migration in Senegal, Kenya and Tanzania representing West and East Africa. The digitized shoreline was mapped into both erosion, accretion and trend analysis which further explains the vulnerability and physical processes that could trigger human displacement within the context of environmental/climate migration. Analysis of landuse and land cover dynamics was obtained from Landsat 5 TM of 1986, Landsat 7 ET of 2006, Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS of 2016 and Landsat 9 OLI/TIRS 2022 and computed using ArcGIS 10.7 for Land-use change and percentage change in square kilometers was conducted to examine landuse/landcover dynamics and their contributions to the risk of coastal erosion in the study regions. The outcome of the shoreline analysis reveals that 972.03sqkm of land has been lost to coastal erosion in Senegal from 1986-2022 with 2016-2022 described as the period with the highest in terms of land loss. In Kenya, -463.30sqkm of land has also been lost to coastal erosion and agents of wave processes with 1986-2006 recording the highest share of -87.74% loss of valuable land while In Tanzania, -1033.35sqkm of valuable land has been lost from 1986-2022 to coastal erosion with 2006-2016 alone recording -10.4634% of land loss. The result of the land use/land cover percentage change analysis indicates a massive loss of vegetation cover with a significant increase in settlement representing urbanization. The scenario modeling of the shoreline on 10,20 and 30ms indicates that 567 persons per sq, 25904.5 persons per sqm and 25904.5 persons per sq km for both 20 and 30ms will be displaced in Senegal while in Kenya 577.5 persons per sq km will be displaced at 10m followed by 1210.3 persons per sq km at 20m and 7737.3 sq km at 30m. In, Tanzania, 702001.9 persons per sq km are projected to be displaced at 10m shift in the shoreline. Structured Questionnaires were administered to elicit responses from coastal dwellers on their perception of coastal erosion and environmental migration as part of ground truthing and the result of the survey affirms that coastal erosion and its exposure are the major drivers of environmental migration in the study area.
Recognition of overheating in different temperature ranges in high-voltage oil-filled equipment by the dissolved gas analysis
Authors: Kulyk Oleksii
Published: May 2024

One of the significant problems that largely determine the operational reliability of power transformers and, in some cases, the reliability of electricity supply to consumers, is the ageing of this equipment fleet. Therefore, the task of development and improvement of diagnostic methods that allow detecting faults of high-voltage power transformers at an early stage is relevant and practically significant. One of the most widespread methods of non-destructive diagnostics, which allows detecting up to 90 % of all possible defects of high-voltage oil-filled equipment, is the method of dissolved gas analysis. Today, most well-known standards and authors' methods use several diagnostic criteria to detect overheating in different temperature ranges based on the results of dissolved gas analysis. However, these standards and techniques differ considerably in the values of the diagnostic criteria, making it impossible to make an unambiguous diagnosis for the same data using different standards and techniques. Since local overheating of individual parts of insulation and structural elements of high-voltage power transformers is one of the common types of defects and such defects can develop over several years, their development is a serious threat to the insulation of transformers. Therefore, the results of dissolved gases analysis for 1278 high-voltage power transformers in which overheating in different temperature ranges was detected were used for a comprehensive analysis. The 1278 values analysed were split into 31 data sets with similar gas percentages, gas ratios and defect nomograms. Based on an analysis of the recognition reliability of overheating in different temperature ranges, using the norms and criteria regulated by known standards and methods, it was found that the highest recognition reliability is provided by the ratio values regulated by IEC 60599 and the National Standard of Ukraine.
Electric power metering with its low quality
Authors: Gapon Dmytro , Gryb Oleg , Karpaliuk Igor , Zuev Andrey , Donetska Tetiana
Published: May 2024

The issue of electricity metering with low quality is being considered. Special attention is paid to checking the connection metering scheme with low quality of electrical energy. It is shown that a specific circuit design can affect the accuracy of metering of electrical energy in case of poor quality of electrical energy. In distribution networks intended for power supply of industrial enterprises, reactive power is also active. If the consumer has compensating devices, the directions of active and reactive power can be opposite. It is noted that current transformers, selected taking into account the short-circuit current or the characteristics of relay protection, do not provide metering accuracy due to the increased transformation ratio, forcing the installation of an additional set of current transformers or transferring the meters to another point in the network. Thus, the current transformation ratio of the current transformer is somewhat different from the nominal one, and the secondary current vector forms a certain angle with the primary current vector. The voltage error is manifested in a slight decrease in the secondary voltage under load. The angular error is characterized by a certain angle between the vectors of the primary and secondary stress. The value of the errors depends on the load power of the transformer. The maximum allowable voltage drop of the transformer determines the accuracy class. A rated power is set for each accuracy class. Thus, the voltage transformer, depending on the load, can operate in different accuracy classes. Changing the accuracy classes leads to errors in the measurements of metering devices and requires appropriate correction. The article reveals the reasons for the occurrence of such errors, which makes it possible to develop methods and, as a consequence, create devices to prevent the described errors of metering devices.
BUILDINGS FOR MUSIC AS THE ICONS OF THE POLISH CITIES’ NEW ARCHITECTURAL IDENTITY
Authors:   Cracow University of Technology, Poland Faculty of Architecture, Białkiewicz Joanna Jadwiga
Published: May 2024

Over the last 20 years, a great number of investments related to cultural institutions can be observed in Poland, among which the houses for music – particularly stand out. The aim of the analysis is to indicate the common features of the mentioned buildings, and those which determine their exceptional architectural quality. These are: contextualism – a creative and symbolic reference to the local history and tradition; the use of innovative technologies; optimal acoustics; expressive interiors. In every case the goal was to create an iconic object and this was achieved thanks to the modern architectural form and the symbolic references to the cities’ history and genius loci.
CREATIVE DESIGN FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF CORRECT CHANGE VERSUS ASSESSING DESIGN SOLUTION RELEVANCE
Authors:   Andrzej Frycz Modrzewski Krakow University, Poland Faculty of Architecture and Fine Arts, Maryńczuk Paweł
Published: May 2024

Experience-based research in architecture aimed at perfecting design praxis typically begins with an informed identification of the problem and goal. It therefore becomes necessary to postulate a verification of assessment criteria by introducing a verification and revision mechanism into their formulation. Correct – relevant – solutions are those which meet assessment criteria, which means that the assessments of the modification problem solutions comply with the pattern produced by the solution. In unique cases, as they are cases with the most severe consequences, criteria need to be formulated on a case-specific basis. The author wishes to describe this property, namely to define the sense of relevance as an attribute of research.
Распространение вариантов вируса SARS-COV-2, вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), на основе количества их геномов, депонированных в базу данных GISAID за неделю с 11 по 17 мая 2024 г.
Authors: Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Краснов Ярослав , Осина Наталья , Зимирова Анастасия , Иванова Александра , Карнаухов Игорь , Караваева Татьяна , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: May 2024

Распространение вариантов вируса SARS-COV-2, вызывающих интерес
(VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), на основе количества их геномов, депонированных в базу данных GISAID за неделю с 11 по 17 мая 2024 г.
Additive regulated concrete for thermally extreme conditions
Authors: Watts Benjamin , Kennedy Danielle
Published: May 2024

This study details a multiprong effort to validate the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory’s solution for concrete construction and repair in cold weather, Additive Regulated Concrete for Thermally Extreme Conditions (ARCTEC). ARCTEC is the product of several years of research and consists of a testing and simulation workflow which generates scenario-sensitive guidance for use of accelerating admixtures in concrete. This report details efforts to validate ARCTEC using real-world, full-scale, field demonstrations. These demonstrations were used to collect data on the behavior of concrete obtained through conventional supply chains, to assess the accuracy of the simulation component of the workflow, and test efficacy of ARCTEC guidance in achieving frost protection. Results indicate that ARCTEC is at a high level of maturity, and provides additive dosage guidance that ensures frost protection and strength development in concrete placed where overnight lows fall as low as 0°F. The effort and cost required to implement ARCTEC as a cold weather protection strategy is minimal, and significantly less burdensome than conventional methods. Any cold region installation with a winter construction or repair needs and access to conventional concrete supply chains could field ARCTEC, and reduce the cost and schedule constraints associated with winter construction.
Determination of Earthquake Depths Using Data of Cross-Sectional and Areal Deep Seismic Studies in Siberia
Authors: Soloviev V.M. , Seleznev V.S. , Emanov A.F. , Liseikin A.V. , Shibaev S.V. , Chechel’nitskii V.V. , Galeva N.A.
Published: May 2024

—Information on the distribution of earthquake hypocenters for many seismically active zones of Siberia remains insufficient, which is associated with sparse networks of seismological observations. The paper presents the results of determining the earthquake depths in several seismogenic areas in the Altai-Sayan region, Cisbaikalia, Transbaikalia, and Yakutia using the travel time of longitudinal refracted waves from the Mohorovičič discontinuity (Pn waves) from earthquakes and the recently obtained information about the deep structure of these regions. The depth determination algorithm is tested using data from aftershocks of large earthquakes occurring in Tuva in 2011 and 2012 (ML = 6.7 and 6.8), recorded both by the regional seismological network and by a local group of seismic stations. Different methods are applied to reveal that some aftershock depths have a close match, including those for the main shocks – the Tuva-1 and Tuva-2 earthquakes. Another good match of earthquake depths is obtained using Рn waves with materials from regional and detailed studies of the Baikal branch of the Geophysical Survey of the Russian Academy of Sciences in the Muyakan activation site in the Baikal rift zone. The resulting data complement the information on the hypocenter of the main shock and confirm the change of the Muyakan activation cluster from large depths to shallow ones since the onset of activation in 2014. New information on the earthquake depths using Рn waves is obtained in Yakutia along the border of the largest Eurasian and Okhotsk tectonic plates. It is revealed that they decrease to 6–12 km as compared to higher depths of 20–30 km in adjacent areas. The resulting series of new information on the distribution of earthquake hypocenters using Рn waves is extremely important mostly because it indicates the possibility of identifying and redefining earthquake hypocenters using previous seismological observations in seismically active zones of Siberia.
Trace amine associated receptor 1: Predicted effects of single nucleotide variants on structure-function in geographically diverse populations
Authors: Shajan Britto , Marri Shashikanth , Bastiampillai Tarun , Gregory Karen J. , Hellyer Shane D. , Nair Pramod C.
Published: May 2024

Trace Amine Associated Receptor 1 (TAAR1) is a novel pharmaceutical target under investigation for the treatment of several neuropsychiatric conditions. TAAR1 single nucleotide variants (SNV) have been found in patients with schizophrenia and metabolic disorders. However, the frequency of variants in geographically diverse populations and the functional effects of such variants are unknown. In this study, we aimed to characterise the distribution of TAAR1 SNVs in five different WHO regions using the Database of Genotypes and Phenotypes (dbGaP) and conducted a critical computational analysis using available TAAR1 structural data to identify SNVs affecting ligand binding and/or functional regions. Our analysis shows 19 orthosteric, 9 signalling and 16 micro-switch SNVs hypothesised to critically influence the agonist induced TAAR1 activation. These SNVs may non-proportionally influence populations from discrete regions and differentially influence the activity of TAAR1-targeting therapeutics in genetically and geographically diverse populations. Notably, our dataset presented with orthosteric SNVs D1033.32N (found only in the South-East Asian Region and Western Pacific Region) and T1945.42A (found only in South-East Asian Region), and 2 signalling SNVs (V1253.54A/T2526.36A, found in African Region and commonly, respectively), all of which have previously demonstrated to influence ligand induced functions of TAAR1. Furthermore, bioinformatics analysis using SIFT4G, MutationTaster 2, PROVEAN and MutationAssessor predicted all 16 micro-switch SNVs are damaging and may further influence the agonist activation of TAAR1, thereby possibly impacting upon clinical outcomes. Understanding the genetic basis of TAAR1 function and the impact of common mutations within clinical populations is important for the safe and effective utilisation of novel and existing pharmacotherapies.
Relation between serum vitamin D level and disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis patients
Authors: Salem Mohamed H , Hassan Nahed , Abdelsalam Adel , Hamdy Fatma
Published: May 2024

Background: The role of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis is controversial. This study aims to assess the relation between vitamin D level and rheumatoid arthritis disease activity.Patients and methods: This study was conducted on 80 rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients beside 40 healthy persons. Vitamin D level was assessed in all participants. Rheumatoid activity was assessed using DAS28 (disease activity score). RA patients were classified according to DAS 28 into two groups: active group and remission group.Results: The median for vitamin D level in RA group was 23.5ng/ml. There was no statistically significant difference in serum vitamin D level between RA cases and control group (23.5ng/ml versus 25ng/ml, P 0.9). Serum vitamin D level was not significantly different between active RA patients and patients in remission (P = 0.09 respectively). There was no significant difference between patients with different levels of vitamin D as regards activity parameters. No correlation was found between vitamin D level and rheumatoid activity.Conclusion: There was no difference in vitamin D level between RA patients and healthy control. Also, there was no difference in vitamin D level between RA patients with active disease and patients in remission. There was no significant association between vitamin D level and disease activity parameters.
Long-Term Effects of Flexible Visitation in the ICU on Family Members' Mental Health: 12-Month Results from a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: de Souza Jennifer Menna Barreto , Miozzo Aline Paula , Santos Rosa da Rosa Minho dos , Mocellin Duane , Rech Gabriela Soares , Trott Geraldine , Estivalete Gabriel Pozza Muller , Sganzerla Daniel , de Souza Denise , Rosa Regis Goulart , Teixeira Cassiano
Published: May 2024

Purpose
To assess the effects of flexible ICU visitation on the one-year prevalences of posttraumatic stress, anxiety and depression symptoms among family members of critically ill patients.
Methods
This is a secondary analysis of a cluster-crossover randomized clinical trial that evaluated a flexible visitation model in the ICU (12 hours/day) compared to a restrictive visitation model (median 1.5 hours/day) in 36 Brazilian ICUs. In the present analysis, family members were assessed 12 months after inclusion in the study for the following outcomes: post-traumatic stress symptoms measured by the Impact Event Scale-6 and anxiety and depression symptoms measured by the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale.
Results
A total of 519 family members were analyzed (288 in the flexible visitation group and 231 in the restrictive visitation group). Three-hundred sixty-nine (71.1%) were women, and the mean age was 46.7 years. Compared to family members in the restrictive visitation group, family members in the flexible visitation group had a significantly lower prevalence of post-traumatic stress symptoms (21.0% vs. 30.5%; prevalence ratio [PR], 0.70; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.54–0.92; p = 0.01). The prevalence of anxiety (28.9% vs. 33.2%; PR 0.92; 95% CI, 0.71–1.19; p = 0.54) and depression symptoms (19.2% vs. 25.0%; PR, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.61–1.04; p = 0.05) did not differ significantly between the groups.
Conclusion
Flexible ICU visitation, compared to the restrictive visitation, was associated with a significant reduction in the one-year prevalence of post-traumatic stress symptoms in family members.
TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02932358
Trial protocol: 10.1136/bmjopen-2017-021193
tDCS combined with kinesthetic motor imagery-based brain computer interface training promotes upper limb function in subacute stroke: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Zhang Ming , Wu Yu , Jia Fan , Gao Ling , Chu Fengming , Tang Wei
Published: May 2024

Background
Most stroke survivors have upper extremity dysfunction. According to neuroplasticity theory, transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and kinesthetic motor imagery-based brain computer interface (KI-BCI) have the potential to improve the upper extremity function of participants with subacute stroke. However, the efficacy of tDCS combined with KI-BCI in participants with subacute stroke is unknown.
Objective
To investigate whether the combined effect of tDCS and KI-BCI on upper limb function in participants with subacute stroke is more effective than the effects of tDCS or KI-BCI alone.
Methods
We randomized 48 participants into a tDCS group (n = 16), a KI-BCI group (n = 16), and a tDCS-BCI group (n = 16). Participants in the tDCS group received 30 min of tDCS with the anode over M1. The KI-BCI group performed 30 min of KI-BCI training. Participants in the tDCS-BCI group received 15 min of tDCS and 15 min of KI-BCI. All participants received conventional intervention. The treatment cycle consisted of a 1 session each day, 5 days per week for 4 weeks. The Fugl–Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) subscale, Motor Status Scale (MSS), Action Research Arm Test (ARAT), and Modified Barthel Index (MBI) were used to assess upper limb function, and activities of daily living (ADL) before and after the 4-week treatment period. In addition, electroencephalography (EEG) was used to explore potential clinical brain mechanisms.
Results
After four weeks of intervention, the tDCS-BCI group was superior to the tDCS group in terms of the MSS. The FMA-UE, MSS, and MBI scores of the KI-BCI group were superior to those of the tDCS group. There was no difference in the number of quantitative EEGs among the three groups, while the number of quantitative EEGs was greater than before.
Conclusion
TDCS combined with KI-CI training can improve upper extremity function. However, KI-BCI training alone can improve upper limb function and ADL simultaneously. TDCS could alter the electrical excitatory levels of the cerebral hemispheres.
Trial registry number: ChiCTR2000034730
Conservation of wild food plants from wood exploitation: evidence supporting the protection hypothesis in Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Caetano Roberta de Almeida , Silva Emilly Luize Guedes da , Nolasco Luis Fernando Colin , Silva Rafael Ricardo Vasconcelos da , Carvalho Adriana Rosa , de Medeiros Patrícia Muniz
Published: May 2024

Background The interplay between different uses of woody plants remains underexplored, obscuring our understanding of how a plant's value for one purpose might shield it from other, more harmful uses. This study examines the protection hypothesis by determining if food uses can protect woody plants from wood exploitation. We approached the hypothesis from two distinct perspectives: 1) the protective effect is proportional to the intensity of a species' use for food purposes, and 2) the protective effect only targets key species for food purposes.Methods The research was conducted in a rural community within Restinga vegetation in Northeast Brazil. During a participatory workshop, we pinpointed three food species vital for both consumption and income (key species), along with their natural occurrence and collection areas. A floristic survey in three distinct areas identified additional species coexisting with the key species. Using a field herbarium and species photographs as visual stimuli, participants assessed the species for wood quality, perceived availability, and usage. We employed Cumulative Link Mixed Models (CLMMs) to evaluate the hypotheses “the food uses (specialized) protect plants from wood exploitation (generalist)” from two different perspectives (generalized protection and protection targeted at key species).Results Findings suggest there is no proportional protective effect from food uses across species. However, domestic food use of key species exhibited a marked protective effect. Perceived availability and utility emerged as notable predictors for wood exploitation.Conclusion We advocate for biocultural conservation strategies that enhance the food value of plants for their safeguarding, coupled with measures for non-edible woody species under higher use-pressure.
A Real-world cost-effectiveness study of autologous stem cell transplant plus CAR-T versus CAR-Ttherapy alone in Chinese patients with relapsed/refractory large B-cell lymphoma
Authors: Zhu Xiaojian , Zhou Zhengtao , Ruan Haitao , Deng Ting , Meng Fankai , Cao Yang , Huang Liang , Zhou Xiaoxi , Zhou Jianfeng
Published: May 2024

This study aimed to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of autologous stem cell transplant plus CAR-T (ASCT + CAR-T) therapy compared to CAR-T therapy among relapsed/refractory large B-cell lymphoma (r/r LBCL) patients based on real-world data.Complete response rate (CR), adverse events (AE), and total treatment cost were identified and compared between the two therapy groups. Using a decision analytic model based on standard clinical flow, incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) for overall survival were calculated with stratification by disease stage and hormone-receptor status. A total of 76 patients received CAR-T therapy and 81 underwent ASCT + CAR-T therapy. The average total treatment cost was ¥242,265.44 for the CAR-T group and ¥321,649.84 for the ASCT + CAR-T group (p < 0.001), 44.70% and 58.02% patients achieved CR at 6-month respectively (p = 0.1). Grade III or higher cytokine release syndrome events occurred in 6.8% of the CAR-T group and 13.6% of the ASCT + CAR-T group (p < 0.001). The ICER was ¥5,974.21 per 1% CR rate increase. The use of ASCT + CAR-T for r/r LBCL patients may lead to better effectiveness but also higher treatment costs. Commercial CAR-T demonstrated a higher CR rate but higher treatment costs compared to in-hospital CAR-T formulations. Our research provides support for the cost-effectiveness of different treatment option for r/r LBCL patients.
Predictive value of body mass index on the efficacy of Sintilimab combined with SOX regimen for the first-line treatment of advanced inoperable gastric cancer
Authors: Yao Zhiyuan , Liu Haonan , Pan Di , Chen Xiaoxiao , Wang Hongmei , Qin Xiaobing , Qu Pengfei , Li Yuqi , Zhu Jingjing , Chen Jingbo , Lu Tong , Cao Menghan , Tang Juanjuan , Li Gengchen , Ron Tianming , Han Zhengxiang
Published: May 2024

Purpose: This study aims to investigate the predictive role of body mass index (BMI) on the efficacy of sintilimab combined with oxaliplatin + tiglio (SOX) in the first-line treatment for patients with advanced inoperable gastric cancer.
Materials and methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 137 patients with advanced inoperable gastric cancer treated with sintilimab in conjunction with the SOX regimen at the Affiliated Hospital of Xuzhou Medical University from September 2020 to December 2023. Patients were categorized into the wasting group (BMI <18.5 kg/m²) and the non-wasting group (BMI ≥18.5 kg/m²) according to their BMI. There were 68 cases in the wasting group and 69 cases in the non-wasting group. Parameters including progression-free survival time (PFS), overall survival time (OS), objective remission rate (ORR), disease control rate (DCR), and adverse reactions were analyzed and compared between the two groups. Survival curves were plotted using the Kaplan–Meier method, and differences between the groups were assessed using the Log-rank test. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses were performed to identify independent risk factors affecting OS. A column-line diagram model was constructed based on the independent factors affecting patients' OS, and the model’s discriminative ability was evaluated using the C-index, ROC curve, and calibration curve. The clinical benefit of the column-line diagram was assessed using DCA curves.
Results: Patients in the non-wasting group exhibited significantly longer median PFS compared to those in the wasting group (10.3 months vs 7.85 months, P=0.012) and significantly longer median OS(19.8 months vs 17.4 months, P<0.01). The ORR (29.0% vs 14.7%, P=0.043) and DCR (62.3% vs 44.9%, P=0.049) were significantly better in the non-wasting group compared to the wasting group. There was no significant difference in the overall incidence of adverse events between the two groups (73.5% vs 66.7%, P=0.381), and no grade >3 adverse reactions or adverse reaction-related deaths occurred in either group. Multifactorial analysis revealed distant metastasis (HR=0.24, 95% CI=0.11-0.52), tumor size (HR=2.17, 95% CI=1.04-4.53), and BMI (HR=0.39, 95% CI=0.17-0.87) as independent prognostic factors affecting OS (all P-values <0.05). Furthermore, the constructed column-line graphical model demonstrated good accuracy and discrimination (C-index for the training set: 0.790 (0.724–0.857), C-index for the validation set: 0.690 (0.579–0.801).
Conclusion: BMI serves as a convenient, efficient, and clinically valuable predictor of the efficacy of sintilimab in combination with the SOX regimen for the first-line treatment of patients with advanced inoperable gastric cancer.
Comparison of the Chondrogenic Potential of eBMSCs and eUCMSCs in Response to Selected Peptides and Compounds
Authors: Ajeeb Boushra , Kiyotake Emi A. , Keefe Peggy A. , Phillips Jennifer N. , Hatzel Jennifer N. , Goodrich Laurie R. , Detamore Michael S.
Published: May 2024

Background
Cartilage injuries pose significant challenges in horses and often lead to post-traumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA). Despite the advances in surgical and regenerative techniques, the result in most cases is the formation of a fibrocartilage repair tissue. Cell-based cartilage therapies are mainly focused on equine bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (eBMSCs) as they are easily accessible, and multipotent. Nonetheless, alternative allogeneic sources, for example equine umbilical cord matrix mesenchymal stromal cells (eUCMSCs), hold promise given their non-invasive and readily accessible nature. Considerable research has been dedicated to exploring chondroinductive factors (e.g., peptides and small compounds), aiming to replace growth factors for inducing chondrogenesis. However, these factors have not yet translated to the equine community. Therefore, in the current study, we selected from the literature two promising peptides, CM10 and CK2.1, and two promising compounds, kartogenin and SM04690, and assessed their chondroinductive potential with both eBMSCs and eUCMSCs. In addition, the chondroinductive potential of eBMSCs was evaluated in monolayer and spheroid culture in both hypoxia and normoxia in response to dexamethasone and/or TGF-β3.
Results
Following 21 days of culture, none of the evaluated chondrogenic factors resulted in a higher gene expression of chondrogenic markers compared to the positive or negative controls with eBMSCs or eUCMSCs. Interestingly, spheroid culture in hypoxia with dexamethasone treatment (without TGF-β or any compound or peptide) was sufficient to induce the chondrogenic differentiation of eBMSCs.
Conclusion
Based on cell response to the positive control, eBMSCs may be preferred over eUCMSCs for chondrogenesis. The current study therefore supports the use of spheroid culture, and the use of dexamethasone over TGF-β or any of the compounds or peptides tested here from the prior literature to drive chondrogenesis with eBMSCs.
Response of hydrological characteristics for local coastal water bodies of the South-Eastern Baltic to extreme weather events in autumn–winter 2023/2024
Authors: Domnin Dmitry , Kileso Aleksandr , Kulmanov Kirill , Rachipa Vladislavs
Published: May 2024

A total of 25 storms were recorded in the autumn-winter period of 2023–2024, with eight of these exhibiting a notable impact on the coast of the South-Eastern Baltic. As a consequence of this phenomenon, the western coast of the Sambian Peninsula of the Kaliningrad Oblast (Russia) was subjected to devastating effects: partial washout of the beach, flooded recreational infrastructure, the direction of the water flow changed and the formation of a local canyon, the dam of a flooded quarry broke through and was completely destroyed. The methodology for the integrated use of field measurement data, meteorological and hydrological information, re-analysis data, as well as satellite images was developed in order to analyses the effects of storms on inland coastal water bodies. Almost all storm events caused sea levels to rise, which had a devastating effect on the coast. As a consequence of the initial storm in October 2023, the inland water body was entirely obliterated, first becoming part of the sea and then a sandy beach. The most significant event was a series of storms in January and February 2024, which resulted in a 90 cm increase in the level rise relative to the pre-storm period. The storms brought with them a vast amount of precipitation, amounting to 51% of the total during the cold period. Rising sea levels and heavy precipitation caused the flooding of coastal lagoon lakes, changes in their thermohaline and oxygen regimes, as well as flooding of adjacent infrastructure.
Evaluation of MANET information safety characteristics based on the analysis of link topologies
Authors:   Department of Technical Cybernetics, Ufa University of Science and Technology, Gvozdev Vladimir E. , Guzairov Murat B. ,   Department of Information Security Management Ufa University of Science and Technology, Davlieva Aliya S. ,   Department of Technical Cybernetics, Ufa University of Science and Technology, Galimov Robert R. ,   Department of Technical Cybernetics, Ufa University of Science and Technology
Published: May 2024

Topological features of distributed infocommunication networks are among the key factors that determine their properties: stability, reliability and resistance to failures and attacks. The study of the communications topology influence in the Wireless Mobile ad hoc network, as an integral part of the infrastructure of computing and communication systems, is one of the priority tasks when it comes to ensure the effective and efficient network-centric control. The paper presents the results of a study aiming to evaluate the efficiency of various methods used to identify the nature of trends in the case short time series.
Method for evaluating the industrial systems with built-in artificial intelligence robustness to adversarial attacks
Authors:   ITMO University, Vorobeva Alisa A.
Published: May 2024

The paper presents a method for evaluating the industrial systems with built-in artificial intelligence (AI) robustness to adversarial attacks. The influence of adversarial attacks on the systems performance has been studied. The scheme and the scenarios to implement attacks on industrial systems with built-in AI were presented. A comprehensive set of metrics used to study the robustness of ML models has been proposed, including test data set quality metrics (MDQ), ML model quality metrics (MMQ), and model robustness to adversarial attacks metrics (MSQ). The method is based on the use of this metrics set and includes the following steps: generating a set of test data containing clean samples; assessing the quality of a test data set using MMQ metrics; identification of relevant adversarial attacks methods; generating adversarial examples and a test data set, containing the adversarial samples, to evaluate the robustness of the ML model; assessing the quality of the generated adversarial test data set using MDQ indicators; evaluating the quality of a ML model using MMQ indicators; evaluating model robustness using MSQ scores.
Model of corporate information system user behavior
Authors:   Tomsk State University of Control Systems and Radioelectronics (TUSUR), Banokin Pavel I.
Published: May 2024

A behavior model of corporate user is presented. The model is based on a De Bruijn graph, where the vertices store the features of text data. The values of textual features are extracted with regard to the data displayed in the client application information system. The model could be used to identify the behavioral anomalies, that could be linked to internal data leaks. The scope of detected behavioral anomalies includes scenarios of the corrupted business process flow and the data leakage of an unusual topic. The model is evaluated by criteria of efficiency, adequacy and completeness.
Tax policy and activation of internal factors of economic growth: EU experience for Ukraine
Authors: Dobrovolska Olena , Sonntag Ralph , Kachula Svitlana , Lysiak Liubov , Lastovchenko Pavlo
Published: May 2024

The state policy of Ukraine aims to promote sustainable economic growth and improve its quality through economic activity, particularly through the optimization of the tax system, which is particularly relevant both during the period of martial law in Ukraine and the post-war recovery. The purpose of the study is to assess the formation and implementation of the state tax policy to activate the internal factors of economic growth in Ukraine under martial law. The study of tax policy in Ukraine and EU countries has shown that the EU countries are characterized by a consistent and transparent tax policy that stimulates investment, innovation, and entrepreneurship to activate internal factors of economic growth. The paper uses fiscal analysis based on the Cobb-Douglas production-institutional function; its main concept is the mutual location of the Laffer points of the first and second types and the actual level of the tax burden. The results show a noticeable adjustment of the real fiscal climate in Ukraine in line with changes in threshold fiscal standards. Considering martial law in Ukraine and the need for the state’s ability to post-war recovery, the study suggests changing the rates of specific taxes, after which it is necessary to make a transition from private fiscal instruments with inherent rate values to the aggregate fiscal burden.
Analysing the interlinkage between diarrhoea and drinking water faecal contamination in India
Authors: Kapse Gaurav , Agnihotri Satish , Sekhsaria Pankaj , Sastry Murali
Published: May 2024

Diarrhoea is one of the major waterborne diseases spread through the faecal–oral route causing over 10 million cases and over 1,000 deaths per year in India. This study critically evaluates the interlinkage between bacteriological water quality, i.e. faecal coliforms and diarrhoea cases for the three pre-pandemic years 2017, 2018 and 2019 based on multiple sources. With around 17% of households tap water connectivity as of August 2019, the majority of the Indian population depends on raw groundwater (GW) and surface water sources. For this, faecal coliform (FC) levels in surface and GW have been mapped at district levels using data from India's National Water Quality Monitoring Programme. Health Management Information System's data on diarrhoea have been used to understand the monthly and district-wise variation of diarrhoea. The trends of FC, diarrhoea inpatient cases, and diarrhoea inpatient rates have been discussed. The analysis showed issues associated with the reliability and usefulness of these datasets with 43% of total India districts with no reported FC values for the study period. This study reveals a clear gap in the interlinkage between diarrhoea and bacteriological water quality with the unavailability of granular water quality data as a major challenge.
Coordinated emission reduction strategy of water pollution and carbon emissions in the South-to-North Water Diversion Project based on a differential game model
Authors: Chen Junfei , Cheng Yusong , Yang Wentong
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the green development of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project (SNWDP) by exploring the synergistic reduction of water pollution and carbon emissions. Firstly, a differential game model is constructed to reduce pollution and carbon in the water supply chain. Secondly, the emission reduction strategies of water source and receiving areas under centralized and decentralized decision models are compared and analyzed and a cost-sharing contract is designed to coordinate the supply chain. Finally, numerical analysis is used to compare and analyze the important parameters to draw conclusions. The results show that: (1) Collaboration between water source and receiving areas influences emission reduction efforts, with the highest achieved under the centralized model. (2) The cost-sharing contract improves efforts and addresses ‘free-riding’ in the decentralized model. (3) The SNWDP can achieve a win-win situation in terms of both environmental and economic benefits by promoting the synergy of pollution reduction and carbon reduction.
Hallmarks of Periodontitis
Authors: Gasmi Benahmed Asma , Gasmi Amin , Noor Sadaf , Semenova Yuliya , Emadali Alireza , Dadar Maryam , Shanaida Yurii , Avdeev Oleksandr , Bjørklund Geir
Published: May 2024

Periodontitis is a complex polymicrobial disease of the oral cavity that affects
tooth-supporting tissues. It is caused by multiple factors, such as pathogenic bacteria, genetic
predisposition, and host immune response factors. The pathogenesis of periodontal
disease involves the complex interrelations among bacterial toxins, several populations
of cells, and host cell-secreted inflammatory mediators. Generally, periodontitis is characterized
by the formation of intricate and varied biofilms of microbes on the tooth surface,
commonly known as dental plaque. Activation of defense cells is characterized by
releasing inflammatory mediators, such as proteases, acidic metabolites, cytokines, interleukins,
and chemokines, which destroy tissue and ultimately cause bone resorption.
The individual periodontal condition has a significant impact on systemic homeostasis,
and its disruption can cause the development of some metabolic disorders. This review
article summarizes the latest studies on the pathogenesis of periodontitis and describes
the role of inflammatory mediators and genetic polymorphism in individuals, as well as
relationships with some metabolic conditions. The information is collected from
PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, SpringerLink, and clinicaltrials.gov.
Non-Cystic Fibrosis-Related Bronchiectasis in Children: Are Bacteria Always to Blame?
Authors: Virgili Fabrizio , La Regina Domenico , Nenna Raffaella , Mancino Enrica , Matera Luigi , Spatuzzo Mattia , Iovine Elio , Midulla Fabio
Published: May 2024

Background:

Bronchiectases are structural alterations characterized by the dilation of
bronchial walls due to inflammation, resulting in a loss of elasticity and muscle function. They are
more common in adults than children and have various etiologies (such as chronic infections, particularly
in developing countries, or immunodeficiencies in industrialized nations), with up to
40% being idiopathic.

Case presentation:

We reported the case of a nine-year-old child who, following two lower respiratory
tract infections (a severe H1N1 influenza pneumonia and a milder episode caused by M.
pneumoniae), developed bronchiectasis without underlying predisposing conditions.

Discussion:

Bronchiectasis is a morphological alteration of the bronchi, which can develop subsequently
to lung infections and may remain clinically silent even for a long time. The most common
associated symptoms include productive cough, persistent rales, therapy-resistant “asthma,”
and recurrent lung infections. High-Resolution CT (HRCT) scans are the gold standard for their diagnosis,
while their management requires a comprehensive approach, including pharmacological
and psychosocial measures. It is always advisable to investigate the underlying etiology to eventually
establish a causal treatment.

Conclusion:

This study aims to emphasize that not only bacteria but also viral infections and their
associated inflammatory impact on lung tissue can contribute to the development of bronchiectasis.
This study aims to implement current knowledge regarding non-cystic fibrosis-related
bronchiectasis and to underscore the significance of post-acute instrumental reassessment in lower
respiratory tract infections, especially when severe.