bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LEGALIZATION OF CANNABIS PRODUCTION FOR MEDICAL PURPOSES IN MACEDONIA - IMPLICATION FOR LEGAL AMENDMENTS (POSITIVE VS NEGATIVE EFFECTS)
Authors: Simonovski Ivica , Bogdanova – Smilevska Biljana
Published: August 2023

In March 2016, the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia amended the Law on Control of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances, giving the possibility for North Macedonia to join a growing number of countries that allow for the cultivation and exportation of medical cannabis. As a result, for the past five years it has been legal to grow cannabis for medical purposes, and to refine, extract and produce hemp seed and cannabis oil. Given the current economic unprofitability of cannabis production, primarily due to high production costs and uncertain marketing, many companies are idle, i.e., waiting for legal changes that will make it possible for them to export dried cannabis flowers. The purpose of this paper is to answer the following hypotheses: (1) Does the inability to achieve the required quality of cannabis imply a new draft Law on Control of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances? (2) Which are the positive versus the negative implications regarding the legal changes? (3) Determining the security implications, given that Macedonia is a transit point on the marijuana smuggling route from Albania and Kosovo to Turkey, where it is replaced by heroin, which is later sold to the Balkans and Western Europe. (4) Can the Government establish an effective system of control? For the purposes of this paper, a desk analysis of primary and secondary literature will be conducted as well as interviews with the relevant stakeholders. Key words: cannabis, heroin, Law, smuggling, routes, seizure
21ST CENTURY CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS IN THE LIGHT OF HISTORY
Authors:   University of Public Service Faculty of Law Enforcement, Sallai János , Farkas Johanna ,   University of Public Service Faculty of Law Enforcement
Published: August 2023

It is impossible to separate the public police organization from the modern state. King Louis XIV was the founder of the first centrally organized and uniform police force in 1667. A book related to the work of the police was first published in 1705 under the title "Traité de la police". It outlines the three main activities of the police, which are economic regulation, measures of the public order, and general rules of hygiene. The first head of Police and his 44 police commissioners' work was assisted by police inspectors beginning in 1709. The police also appeared on German territory, and the works of Lorenz von Stein, Otto Mayer, and Robert von Mohl are still dominant in Europe nowadays. This study examines books, journals, and legal documents to present the development of the law enforcement and the modern challenges of policing in Hungary. Our country celebrated the establishment of the central police last year. In the 20th century there was a development in modern policing and literature, as well as the emergence of modern police officer training. After World War II, a Soviet law enforcement model was imitated in which there was state security, secrecy, and Soviet police character. Although research of historical and theoretical studies of policing was forbidden, after the Revolution of 1989, the research of law enforcement theory was completed. Globalisation has created new sources of danger (e.g. terrorism, cybercrime), driven by a lack of borders and the expansion of international relations (Farkas, 2016). We can only meet the new challenges with the deepening of international law enforcement cooperation. Keywords: law enforcement, globalisation, data-transmission revolution, security
The Potential Role of Hypothalamic Phospholipid Liposomes in the Supportive Therapy of Some Manifestations of Post COVID-19 Condition: Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Brain Fog
Authors: Menichetti Francesco
Published: August 2023

Long Covid is a heterogeneous clinical condition in which Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and brain fog stand out among the different clinical symptoms and syndromes. The cerebral metabolic alterations and neuroendocrine disorders seem to constitute an important part of Long Covid. Given the substantial lack of drugs and effective therapeutic strategies, hypothalamic phospholipid liposomes which have been on the market for several years as adjuvant therapy of cerebral metabolic alterations resulting from neuroendocrine disorders, can be taken into consideration in an overall therapeutic strategy that aims to control the Long Covid associated symptoms and syndromes. Their pharmacological mechanisms and clinical effects strongly support their usefulness in Long Covid. Our initial clinical experience corroborates this rationale. Further research is imperative in order to obtain robust clinical evidence.
Robotic Cholecystectomy advantages and disadvantages, a literature review
Authors: ALKHATIB OMAR , Snodin Chales , Dunne Declan
Published: August 2023

Robotic surgery is a rapidly developing and evolving surgical technique. This literature review evaluates the advantages and disadvantages in the context of gallbladder disease comparing robotic Cholecystectomy to the well-established laparoscopic Cholecystectomy. Significant advantages are reduced operative blood loss, hospital stays and post operative pain, alongside increased patient satisfaction and improved visualisation and precision compared to the laparoscopic approach. Disadvantages include lack of tactile feedback, significant cost attributed to equipment, training requirements and increased procedural time due to the set-up sequences. The implementation of robotic surgery also poses significant changes for the training of future surgeons. Whilst it can standardise training and increases opportunity for simulation, the concern is the loss of traditional skills. Currently the evidence base remains mixed however the use of robotics in the right setting, with suitably trained operatives and appropriate patients can enable improved outcomes for patients with gallbladder disease. There is a lot of scope for development including the implementation of tactile feedback to aid operative technique and artificial intelligence to aid patient safety. Likely broadening the use and potential benefit of robotic surgery not only for cholecystectomy but many surgical specialities.
Economic Viability Investigation of Mixed Biomass Briquettes Made from Agricultural Residues for Household Cooking Use
Authors: Bot Bill Vaneck , Axaopoulos Petros J. , Sakellariou Evangelos I. , Sosso Olivier Thierry , Tamba Jean Gaston
Published: August 2023

This paper presents a theoretical evaluation of the prices of mixed briquettes produced from co-conut shells (CCS), banana peels (BNP), rattan waste (RWT), and sugarcane bagasse (SGC), and, on the other hand, an analysis of the economic viability of their use as a replacement for conventional household fuels (Liquefied Petroleum Gas, fuelwood, and wood charcoal) in house-holds in Cameroon. The investigation was carried out using the Life Cycle Cost method on a typical household over a ten-year period with annual cooking energy requirements of 950 kWhth. The SGC-CCS and SGC-RWT mixed briquettes with a ratio higher than 7.75% and 11.1%, respectively, have prices lower than 0.063 €/kWhth. The Present Value of the Net Benefit is posi-tive for the use of SGC-CCS and SGC-RWT mixed briquettes. The results show that by making the right mixes of residues, it is possible to obtain biomass briquettes that are less expensive than conventional fuels.
Harmonic Graphs Conjecture: Graph-Theoretic Attributes and their Number Theoretic Correlations
Authors: Correa Felipe
Published: August 2023

The Harmonic Graphs Conjecture states that there exists a harmonious relationship between the graph's Harmonic Index ($HI(G_n)$) and the number of vertices ($n$) for every connected graph $G_n$. This relationship can be expressed as a formula, which takes into account the prime number theorem and the sum of divisors function. In this paper, we prove the Harmonic Graphs Conjecture for cycle graphs and complete graphs. We do this by expanding the definitions of the harmonic index and the sum of divisors function, and then using the prime number theorem to approximate the values of these functions. This work is an effort to provide a contribution to the field of graph theory. It provides a new way to study the connectivity of graphs and opens up new avenues for research. For example, our results could be used to develop new algorithms for finding connected components in graphs, or to design new networks that are more resilient to failures.
Current problems of nutrition in elderly and senile patients
Authors:   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation, Derbeneva S.A. ,   Russian State Social University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Pogozheva A.V. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: August 2023

This article provides a review of the literature devoted to the study of current nutritional problems among elderly and senile patients. Psychological, medical, and social factors provoking nutritional disorders in them are considered. They include a decline in physical function, visual and bite disorders, functional changes in the gastrointestinal tract, depression, dementia, isolation, etc. A scientific strategy for dealing with these factors, especially in the very old and socially isolated elderly people, is substantiated. Norms of physiological requirements in the main nutrients for the elderly and senile patients, developed according to the results of numerous research studies, are described. Emphasis is placed on the protein requirements for this group of patients, regarding which serious disputes are still ongoing in the scientific world. Key words: diet therapy, old age, sarcopenia, aging
Flexitorianism: a tribute to fashion, a new dietary trend, or a perceived need?
Authors:   Saint Petersburg State Paediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Zavyalova A.N. , Kazikova M.N. ,   Saint Petersburg State Paediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Masneva A.V. ,   Saint Petersburg State Paediatric Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation, Khranilova D.A. ,   Russian State Academy of Intellectual Property, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: August 2023

An increasing number of people are becoming adherents of vegetarian diets, namely, such a modern trend as flexitorianism. The main idea of the Flexitorians is to reduce the consumption of red meat as a condition for maintaining health. Most of the supporters of this trend are environmentally friendly youth. The main reasons for switching to this type of diet are environmental and social. This movement is trying to reduce the negative impact of the livestock and meat industry on the environment. Also, some people are driven not only by moral ideas, but also by the desire to conform to fashion. A number of studies are presented in terms of the filling of the grocery basket and the frequency of choosing products of animal and plant origin, both for themselves and for their children. The study of stereotypes of nutrition of children and adolescents in modern conditions is described. Data from studies of the feces microbiome of Fleckitorians and omnivores have shown a positive effect on the saprophytic flora of the Flexitorian diet. Key words: flexitorianism, microbiome, nutritional stereotypes
Evaluation of the effectiveness of diet therapy with protein modification in elderly patients with obesity
Authors:   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation, Chekhonina Yu.G. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Gapparova K.M. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation, Vorozhko I.V. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation, Sokolnikov A.A. ,   Federal Research Centre of Nutrition, Biotechnology and Food Safety, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: August 2023

Patients and methods. This study included 43 elderly patients with class I-III obesity, who were randomized into two groups: the study group (24 patients) and the comparison group (19 patients). Anthropometric and serum parameters were assessed in all patients before and after diet therapy: total protein, transaminases, triglycerides, cholesterol fractions, glucose, uric acid, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, vitamins A, B2, B6, B9, B12, E, C and 25(OH)D3. Patients in the study group received a modified version of the standard diet with calorie restriction up to 1700 kcal and with protein modification by including 36 g of a specialized product for 14 days. Patients in the comparison group received a variation of the standard diet with calorie restriction up to 1730 kcal. Results. In patients in the study group, there were positive dynamics of biochemical parameters (a significant decrease in the levels of total cholesterol, glucose, uric acid, an increase in serum concentrations of 25(OH) D3, vitamin E and B12, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and zinc) and body composition parameters (a significant reduction of fat mass, total fluid, a slight increase in muscle mass) against the background of diet therapy with the inclusion of a specialized food product. Conclusion. Thus, timely diagnosis and correction of eating disorders in the elderly is an important part of the prevention and rehabilitation of alimentary-dependent diseases. Key words: obesity, diet therapy, elderly
On the determination of the quadratic pencil of the Sturm-Liouville operator with an impulse
Authors: Khalili Yasser , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: August 2023

In this work, an inverse problem for the quadratic pencil of the Sturm-Liouville operator with an impulse in the finite interval is considered. It is shown that some information on eigenfunctions at some internal point b ∈ (1/2, 1) and parts of two spectra uniquely determine the potential functions and all parameters in the boundary conditions. Moreover we prove that the potential functions on the whole interval and the parameters in the boundary conditions can be established from one spectrum and the potentials prescribed on (1/2, 1).
2010 MSC: 34A37, 65L09, 47A10.
Role of Sox9 in BPD and its effects on the Wnt/β-catenin pathway and AEC-II differentiation
Authors: Xu Wei , Wu Di , Bai Dongqin , Yang Miao , Wu Bo
Published: August 2023

The excessive activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is an important regulatory mechanism that underlies the excessive proliferation and impaired differentiation of type 2 alveolar epithelial cells (AEC-II) in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Sox9 has been shown to be an important repressor of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway and plays an important regulatory role in various pathophysiological processes. We found that the increased expression of Sox9 in the early stages of BPD could downregulate the expression of β-catenin and promote the differentiation of AEC-II cells into AEC-I, thereby alleviating the pathological changes in BPD. The expression of Sox9 in BPD is regulated by long noncoding RNA growth arrest-specific 5. These findings may provide new targets for the early intervention of BPD.
MiR-23b and miR-133 cotarget TGFβ2/NOTCH1 in dermal fibroblasts and affect hair follicle development in sheep
Authors: He Junmin , Wei Chen , Huang Xixia , Zhang Guoping , Mao Jingyi , Li Xue , Yang Cunming , Zhang Wenjing , Tian Kechuan , Liu Guifen
Published: August 2023

Background
Wool, which is a pure natural textile fiber raw material, has high economic value and is increasingly favored by modern textile enterprises and consumers. The output of fine wool, especially high-quality superfine wool, in China is far from meeting the processing needs of the textile market. Therefore, improving the yield and quality of wool has always been a focus of research related to fine wool sheep breeding. Wool is produced and controlled by hair follicles (HFs). However, little is known about the mechanisms involved in HF development and regulation. The structure, function and morphogenesis of HFs are complex biological processes. Sheep dermal fibroblasts (SDFs) play a key role in the initial stage of HF development. Analyzing the molecular mechanism that regulates early HF development in superfine wool sheep is of great importance for better understanding the HF morphogenesis process and for the breeding of fine wool sheep. Here, we show that two microRNAs (miRNAs) affect the development of HFs by targeting two genes that are expressed by SDFs.
Results
On the basis of our previous research, we further found that oar-miR-23b and oar-miR-133 and their cotarget genes TGFβ2 and NOTCH1 were differentially expressed during the six stages of HF development in superfine wool sheep. Overexpression/inhibition of oar-miR-23b and oar-miR-133 in SDFs showed that oar-miR-23b and oar-miR-133 inhibited the proliferation and migration of SDFs and promoted the apoptosis of SDFs through TGFβ2 and NOTCH1. By analyzing genes that are upstream and downstream of the target genes, we found that oar-miR-23b and oar-miR-133 affected the expression of genes in the TGF-β, Hippo and WNT signaling pathways.
Conclusion
oar-miR-23b and oar-miR-133 inhibit the proliferation and migration of SDFs by jointly targeting TGFβ2 and NOTCH1, thereby inhibiting the development of super fine wool HFs. Our research provides a molecular marker that can be used to guide the breeding of ultrafine wool sheep.
The role of magma ascent rates and viscosity in the explosive and dome eruptions (Kelud volcano, Indonesia)
Authors: Utami Sri Budhi , Costa Fidel , Humaida Hanik
Published: August 2023

Magma ascent rate can control the hazard potential of an eruption, but it is difficult to directly determine. Here we investigate the variations in timescales of magma ascent and rates of magma ascent for the three most recent explosive and effusive eruptions of Kelud volcano in Indonesia (1990, 2007, and 2014) using the zoning of volatile elements (OH, Cl, F) in apatite. We found that crystals from the 2007 dome show chemical gradients and increasing concentrations (reverse zoning) in chlorine and/or fluorine towards the crystals’ rims whereas those of the 1990 and 2014 explosive eruptions are unzoned. Diffusion modelling of the volatile elements in zoned apatite of the 2007 dome rocks give magma ascent times of up to 3 months, although 71% of them are ≤ 60 days. In contrast, the maximum magma ascent timescales inferred from apatite of the 1990 and 2014 explosive eruptions are about 7–8 hours. Using the pre-eruptive magma storage depths obtained from petrological and phase equilibria studies, we calculate ascent rates of about > 0.4 × 10− 3 m s− 1 for the 2007 dome, and > 2.6 × 10− 1 m s− 1 for the 1990 and 2014 eruptions. We also calculated the magma viscosities for each eruption, which when combined with the magma ascent rates and magma mass discharge rates correspond well with the expected eruptive styles. Our study illustrates the robustness of modelling apatite zoning in volatile elements to constrain timescales and magma ascent dynamics, and highlights the important role of magma ascent on eruptive styles.
A Liquid Biopsy To Detect Transcriptionally Active Human Papillomavirus 16 From Patient Saliva
Authors: Deutsch Fiona , Sais Dayna , Hill Meredith , Tran Ngoc Ha , Elliott Michael , Tran Nham
Published: August 2023

Head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers (OPC), have been increasingly associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, specifically HPV16. The current methods for HPV16 detection primarily rely on p16 staining or PCR techniques. However, it is important to note the limitations of conventional PCR, as the presence of viral DNA does not always indicate an ongoing viral infection. Moreover, these tests heavily rely on the availability of tissue samples, which can present challenges in certain situations. In this study, we developed a qPCR multiplex approach to detect HPV16 oncogenes E6 and E7 RNA in saliva samples from OPC patients. Salivary supernatant was used as the liquid biopsy source. We successfully obtained RNA from salivary supernatant, preserving its integrity as indicated by the detection of several housekeeping genes. Our multiplex approach accurately detected E6 and E7 RNA in HPV16-positive cell lines, tissues, and finally in OPC salivary samples. Importantly, the assay specifically targeted HPV16 and not HPV18. This multiplexing technique allowed for reduced sample input without compromising specificity. The multiplex qPCR approach presented in this study demonstrates the potential in accurately detecting viable HPV16 in saliva and tissue samples from OPC patients. Since the assay measures HPV16 RNA, it provides insights into the transcriptional activity of the virus. This could guide clinical decision-making and treatment planning for individuals with HPV-related OPC.
Mediation of the Association between Social Environmental Characteristics of Family Childcare Home and Weight Status in Children by Diet Quality
Authors: Jiang Qianxia , Risica Patricia Markham , Tovar Alison , Stowers Kristen Cooksey , Schwartz Marlene B. , Lombardi Caitlin , Gans Kim M.
Published: August 2023

Background: The food and beverages served in family childcare homes (FCCHs) may play an important role in the development of childhood overweight and obesity. This analysis examines whether children’s diet quality mediates the relationship between foods and beverages served in FCCHs and preschool-aged children’s weight status.
Methods: Trained and certified staff conducted observations for two days in each FCCH, using the Environment and Policy Assessment and Observation (EPAO) measure to determine the foods and beverages served to children (N=370) in FCCHs (N=120). They also used the Dietary Observation in Child Care (DOCC) protocol to assess children’s food and beverage intake during childcare, from which we calculated the Healthy Eating Index-2015 (HEI), a measure of diet quality. Height and weight were measured for each child with parent consent from which the child’s body mass index (BMI) z-scores were calculated from. A multilevel mediation analysis was conducted to indicate whether children’s diet quality mediates the relations between food and beverage served in FCCHs and preschool-aged children’s weight status.
Results: Children’s total HEI scores significantly mediated the relationship between the EPAO subscale “Food provided” and children’s BMI z-scores (B=-.01, p<.05, 95% CI = [-.03, -.002]). Further, the EPAO subscale “Food provided” was positively associated with the total HEI score (B=.75, p<.01, 95% CI = [.32, 1.18]). Total HEI scores were negatively associated with BMI z-score (B=-.01, p<.05, 95% CI = [-.02, -.001]).
Conclusion: Children’s diet quality did significantly mediate the relationship between the food served in FCCHs and children’s weight status. More longitudinal studies with longer follow-up periods need to be conducted to confirm these relationships. Further, future studies need to examine the relationships between a broader spectrum of FCCH environmental characteristics and home environment with children’s weight status, as well as other mediators including physical activity.
Association between lactate-to-albumin ratio and 28-days all- cause mortality in patients with Sepsis-associated liver injury: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Yi Xiaona , Jin Dongcai , Huang Shanshan , Xie Zhenye , Zheng Meixia , Zhou Fen , Jin Yuhong
Published: August 2023

Background
This study aimed to clarify the correlation between LAR and 28-day all-cause mortality in patients with sepsis-associated liver injury (SALI).
Methods
In this retrospective cohort study, data were obtained from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (v2.2). Adult patients with SALI were admitted to the intensive care unit in this study. The LAR level at admission was included, and the primary aim was to assess the relationship between the LAR and 28-day all-cause mortality.
Results
A total of 341 patients with sepsis-associated liver injury (SALI) were screened. They were divided into a survival group (241) and a non-survival group (100), and the 28-day mortality rate was 29.3%. After adjusting for confounding factors, patients in the highest LAR quartile had an increased risk of death compared with those in the lowest LAR quartile (HR, 2.87; 95% CI: 1.11–7.42, p for trend, 0.012), using LAR as a categorical variable. When LAR was presented as a continuous variable, the prevalence of in-hospital sepsis-related deaths increased by 21% (adjusted HR: 1.21, 95% CI: 1.07–1.37, P = 0.002) for each 1- unit increase in LAR, regardless of confounders. Stratification and sensitivity analyses indicated that the results are robust.
Conclusions
The 28-day all-cause mortality rate in patients with Sepsis-associated liver injury (SALI) was positively correlated with the LAR levels.
Meta-hydrodynamic routes to viscous electron flow
Authors: Estrada-Alvarez Jorge , Dominguez-Adame Francisco , Díaz Elena
Published: August 2023

Viscous flow of interacting electrons in two dimensional
materials features a bunch of exotic effects. A model resembling the Navier-Stokes equation for classical fluids accounts for them in the so called hydrodynamic regime. This regime occurs when electron-electron collisions are frequent enough. We performed a detailed analysis of the hydrodynamic requirements and found three new routes to achieve viscous electron flow: favouring frequent inelastic collisions, the application of a magnetic field or a high-frequency electric field. Our results show that the conventional requirement of frequent electron-electron collisions is too restrictive and, as a consequence, materials and phenomena to be described using hydrodynamics are widened. We discuss recent experiments regarding Poiseuille-like flows, superballistic conduction and negative resistances as signatures for viscous flow onset. We conclude that these usual signatures of viscous electron flow are achieved by following alternative meta-hydrodynamic routes.
The Residency Levels Effect on Pediatric Dental Rehabilitation Operation Time
Authors: Baakdah Raniah , Al-Hinidi Mohammed , Al-Sharif Shrouq , Al-Kharouby Shahad , Al-Qarni Raghad , Al-Sulami Yara , Al-Nakhli Rabab
Published: August 2023

Background
General anesthesia (GA) is the most frequently used pharmacological intervention in pediatric dental care. Postgraduate pediatric dental residents must perform a variety of pediatric dental rehabilitation procedures under GA at different levels of training. An adequate operation time (OT) decreases morbidity risk and improves hospital time utilization efficiency. The aim of the study is to assess the effect of pediatric dental resident training level on OT for pediatric dental rehabilitation procedures under GA.
Methods
A cross-sectional study of data from all pediatric dental rehabilitation procedures that were performed under GA by pediatric dental residents at KAMC-Jeddah from 2015 to 2022 was conducted. The primary outcome was OT, and the predictive variable was resident training levels. A linear regression analysis was used to compare OT between procedures performed by junior (years 1–2) or senior (years 3–4) trainees, adjusting for patient and operative factors.
Results
A total of 1007 pediatric dental rehabilitation cases were performed under GA by junior (25%) and senior (65%) residents. The univariant analysis indicated that senior residents had significantly longer OTs (13 minutes) than junior residents. However, after considering significant variables, the linear regression analysis showed that senior residents had a significantly shorter OT and performed significantly more dental procedures than junior residents. Senior residents took significantly more radiographs and performed significantly more primary pulp therapies and multisurface anterior colored restorations under GA than junior residents.
Conclusions
The OT for pediatric dental rehabilitation procedures under GA is associated with resident training level. The total operation time was significantly longer based on procedure number, type, and resident level. This finding highlights the importance of assigning procedures that require GA to residents based on their level and the complexity of the case. Additionally, it evaluates residents’ competency development and assesses the impact of residency training programs on hospital efficiency.
Trial registration:
The KAIMRC Internal Review Board (IRB/1514/22) registered this cross-sectional chart review.
Association of multimorbidity and its patterns with risk of mortality among older people in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Zheng Yijin , Yuan Xueli , Ni Wenqing , Zhang Hongmin , zhang Yan , Xu Jian
Published: August 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Association of elevated serum urea nitrogen and the remaining renal function indicators with recurrence of acute ischaemic stroke, with mediating and interacting effects with blood inflammatory indicators
Authors: wang yan , Zhang Mengli , Zhu Hanyu , Pan Zhiming , Chen Jiahui , He Haijun , 王 贞
Published: August 2023

Background and purpose: The relationship between blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and other markers of renal function and the recurrence of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) have been scarcely reported. Inflammatory mechanisms may play a role in these relationships.The aims of this study were to investigate the relationship between BUN and recurrence of AIS and to explore the roles of inflammatory indicators in these relationships.
Methods: A total of 10,973 patients hospitalised for cerebral infarction from 2015 to 2020 were included in this study. BUN, creatinine (CR), uric acid (UA), BUN/CR, UA/CRand BUN/UA were divided into four groups. Cox regression and restricted three-sample bar regression models were used to evaluate the clinical correlations between BUN and other indicators of renal function and ischaemic stroke recurrence.
Results:Among the indicators, the risk of ischaemic stroke recurrence was increased by 117.0% (hazard ratios (HR)= 2.170, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.816–2.593, P<0.001) in patients with the fourth quartile BUN level (Q4 ≥ 6.4 mmol/L), using the first quartile level (Q1<4.3 mmol/L) as the reference value. BUN predicted a greater risk ratio of ischaemic stroke recurrence over 5 years than did the remaining indicators of renal function. We also found that inflammatory markers play a mediating role.
Conclusions:Higher BUN levels were associated with recurrent ischaemic stroke events within 5 years. And, the inflammatory markers white blood cell (WBC) count, absolute neutrophil count (ANC), absolute lymphocyte count (ALC) and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) mediated and interacted with BUN and ischaemic stroke recurrence.
Measuring Performance of Ensemble of Ensembles (EoE) Models
Authors: Attia¹ Mazza Yousuf , Noureldien Noureldien A.
Published: August 2023

To improve the performance of machine-learning algorithms irrelevant and redundant features must be removed. Accordingly, many different feature selection methods have been proposed to analyze the high-dimensional datasets and determine subsets of relevant features. Ensemble feature selection methods have been proposed to integrate the advantages of single-feature selection methods. The ensemble feature selection concept is based on aggregating the outputs of the different feature selection methods into a single output. Many studies have shown that feature subsets generated by ensemble methods improve the performance of machine learning models more than single feature selection methods. In this study, we extended the concept of ensemble feature selection to the concept of ensemble of ensembles of feature selection, where the outputs of different ensembles are aggregated into a single output. Through comprehensive experimental tests, we study the effect of the new concept on the performance of machine-learning models. The results show that the ensemble of ensembles does not guarantee the improvement of the performance of the learning models in comparison to individual ensembles. Thus, the complexity of the structure of an ensemble of ensembles makes it an unworthy approach for improving model performance.
Bioinformatics analysis of the Panax ginseng cyclophilin gene and its anti-Phytophthora cactorum activity
Authors: Yu Zhao , Lu Jiahong , Hao Kaiwen , Wang Yuming , Liu Zhimei , Li Shuaijun , Xue Dongming , Xiao Lizhi , Duan Qidong , Zhang Miao , Hui Fang , Qin Huacong , Lian Wenhui , Tianxia Sun
Published: August 2023

In this paper, Panax ginseng cyclophilin (PgCyP) was successfully obtained through a genetic engineering technique. A bioinformatics method was used to analyze the physicochemical properties and structure of PgCyP. The results showed that PgCyP belongs to the cyclophilin gene family. The protein encoded by the PgCyP gene contains the active site of PPIase (R62, F67, H133) and a binding site for cyclosporine A (W128). The relative molecular weight of PgCyP is 187.11 kDa, the theoretical isoelectric point is 7.67, and it encodes 174 amino acids. The promoter region of PgCyP mainly contains the low-temperature environmental stress response element (LTR), abscisic acid-responsive cis-acting element (ABRE), and light-responsive cis-acting element (G-Box). PgCyP includes a total of nine phosphorylation sites, comprising 4 serine phosphorylation sites, 3 threonine phosphorylation sites, and 2 tyrosine phosphorylation sites. PgCyP was recombined and expressed in vitro, and its recombinant expression was investigated. Furthermore, it was found that the recombinant PgCyP protein could effectively inhibit the germination of spores and the normal growth of mycelium in vitro. Further experiments on the roots of susceptible Arabidopsis thaliana showed that the PgCyP protein could improve the resistance of Arabidopsis to Phytophthora cactorum. The findings of this study provide a basis for the use of the PgCyP protein as a new type of green biopesticide.
Locus Coeruleus is associated with higher openness to experience and IQ: implications for the noradrenergic system for novelty seeking in daily life
Authors: Plini Emanuele , Robertson Ian , Brosnan Meadhbh , Dockree Paul
Published: August 2023

Novelty exposure and the upregulation of the noradrenergic (NA) system have been suggested as crucial for developing cognitive reserve and resilience against neurodegeneration. Openness to Experience (OE), a personality trait associated with interest in novel experiences, may play a key role in facilitating this process. High-OE individuals tend to be more curious and encounter a wider range of novel stimuli throughout lifespan. To investigate the relationship between OE and the main core of the noradrenergic system, the Locus Coeruleus (LC), as well as its potential mediation of IQ—a measure of cognitive reserve—MRI structural analyses were conducted on 135 healthy young adults. Compared to other neuromodulators' seeds, such as Dorsal and Median Raphe (DR-MR) -5-HT, Ventral Tegmental Area (VTA) -DA-, and Nucleus Basalis of Meynert (NBM) -Ach-, the results indicated that higher LC signal intensity correlated with greater OE and IQ. Furthermore, mediation analyses revealed that only LC played a mediating role between OE and IQ. These findings shed light on the neurobiology of personality and emphasize the importance of LC-NA system integrity in novelty-seeking behavior. They provide a psychobiological explanation for how OE expression can contribute to the maintenance of the noradrenergic system, enhancing cognitive reserve and resilience against neurodegeneration.
Superconductivity in a breathing kagomé metals ROs2 (R = Sc, Y, Lu)
Authors: Górnicka Karolina , Winiarski Michał J. , Walicka Dorota I. , Klimczuk Tomasz
Published: August 2023

We have successfully synthesized three osmium-based hexagonal Laves compounds ROs2 (R = Sc, Y, Lu), and discussed their physical properties. LeBail refinement of pXRD data confirms that all compounds crystallize in the hexagonal centrosymmetric MgZn2 – type structure (P63/mmc, No. 194). The refined lattice parameters are a = b = 5.1791(1) Å and c = 8.4841(2) Å for ScOs2, a = b = 5.2571(3) Å and c = 8.6613(2) Å for LuOs2 and a = b = 5.3067(6) Å and c = 8.7904(1) Å for YOs2. ROs2 Laves phases can be viewed as a stacking of kagomé nets interleaved wih triangular layers. Temperature-dependent magnetic susceptibility, resistivity and heat capacity measurements confirm bulk superconductivity with Tc = 5.36, 4.55, and 3.47 K for ScOs2, YOs2, and LuOs2, respectively. We have shown that all investigated Laves compounds are weakly-coupled type-II superconductors. DFT calculations revealed that the band structure of ROs2 is intricate due to multiple interacting d orbitals of Os and R. Nonetheless, the kagomé-derived bands maintain their overall shape, and the Fermi level is found originates from the kagomé flat bands that are broadened by interlayer interaction. As a result, ROs2 can be classified as (breathing) kagomé metal superconductors.
Design and Analysis of a Novel 6-DOF Lorentzian Pointing Platform for Mass Transfer
Authors: Wang Wei , Liu Qian , Huang Yan , Cao YingYu , Liu Qiang
Published: August 2023

To improve the efficiency of mass transfer, a novel magnetic levitation platform is invented. A three-degree-freedom Lorentz bearing is used to realize 6-degree-freedom. The structure and work principle of the three-degree-freedom Lorentz bearing are introduced. A novel circular Halbach array planar motor is used to achieve axial and radial movement. The force model of the magnetic bearing and the planar motor are established. To improve the magnetic flux density at the air gap, a novel Halbach permanent magnetic array is invented. The model of the magnetic flux density is established. The finite element analysis method is used to analyze the magnetic flux density at the air gap. The maximum magnetic flux density is 385mT, which is 375mT in the normal array. An experimental prototype is manufactured. The stroke of the straight line is ± 2mm×±2mm×±1.5mm and the rotation stroke is ± 0.5°×±0.5°×±3°, which is improved about 1.5° in traditional magnetic levitation platform.
Does bicycle sharing reduce traffic congestion? Evidence from mega-cities in China
Authors: Xu Xiaoxia , Liu Jingzhang , Chen Fanglin
Published: August 2023

The development of public transportation is considered as an effective measure to solve the current urban traffic congestion problem. However, research focuses mostly on rail transit systems and buses, and few economic studies systematically identify the effect of shared bicycles on traffic congestion. To fill this gap, this study, which is based on the city-level data of Beijing, Shanghai, and Wuhan in China from 2016 to 2018, uses a regression discontinuity design to test the impact of bicycle sharing on traffic congestion. Results show that first, the implementation of shared bicycle services has significant reduced effects on traffic congestion. Second, based on heterogeneity analysis of different time periods, this study determines that bicycles launched in 2016 have a strong congestion-reducing effect on traffic congestion.. Finally, heterogeneity analysis of different market shares of bicycle brands shows that compared with second-echelon shared bicycles, first-echelon bicycles, including Mobike and OFO, have more significant effects on congestion management. In summary, the implementation of shared bicycle services can reduce traffic congestion, but the government must strengthen standardized management and delivery and strictly monitor the number of shared bicycles.
Preparation of drug-loaded nanofiber membrane / PLA core-coated absorbable surgical suture and its controllable drug release performance
Authors: Yang Zhichao , Liu Shuqiang , Li Jingjing , Wu Gaihong , Li Fu , Zhang Man , Jia Lu , Zhang Yujing , Li Huimin , Liu Xia , Zhao Jingjing , Zhang Huiqin , Li Shiyu
Published: August 2023

Polylactic acid (PLA) surgical suture is considered to be one of the most ideal materials for tissue closure due to its rich raw materials and excellent biological properties. However, surgical sutures face great challenges due to problems such as wound infection and tissue reaction in practical applications. In order to improve the clinical applicability of surgical sutures, we constructed a new drug-loading system for core-spun surgical sutures. The shell was composed of nanofibrous membranes composed of polyglycolic acid (PGA) and polycaprolactone (PCL) and ciprofloxacin (CIP) antibacterial drugs, the core layer adopts PLA filament. By adjusting the composition ratio of polyglycolic acid and polycaprolactone in the shell, a new mode of regulating the release rate and release cycle of the suture was constructed. According to different wound healing time, different drug release cycles of surgical suture were selected. In the study, the higher the shell PGA content and drug loading, the faster the drug release rate. When the carrier ratio polyglycolic acid / Polycaprolactone was 80 / 20 and the drug loading was 3%, the drug release rate was the fastest and the drug release was high. The successful preparation of core-spun yarn surgical suture provides a new idea for the study of new antibacterial surgical suture.
Wood-based Superblack
Authors: Rojas Orlando , Zhao Bin , Shi Xuetong , Khakalo Sergei , Meng Yang , Miettinen Arttu , Turpeinen Tuomas , Mi Shuyi , Sun Zhipei , Khakalo Alexey , Mattos Bruno
Published: August 2023

The promise of superblack materials to revolutionize energy harvesting and optoelectronic technologies has been constrained by their cost and mechanical fragility. Here we report on a simple strategy, guided by computational methods, to develop robust superblack materials following metal-free wood delignification and carbonization (1500 oC). Subwavelength severed cells evolve under shrinkage stresses, yielding vertically aligned fibrillar arrays with a thickness of ~100 µm and light reflectance as low as 0.36 %, on par with conventional superblack materials. The negated light reflection is independent of the incidence angle and wood density. Moreover, our measurements indicate a laser beam reflectivity three-fold lower than commercial light stoppers in current use. Overall, the new wood-based superblack material is introduced as a mechanically strong and cost-effective surrogate for microfabricated carbon nanotube arrays.
A Comparative Study of Flexible Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy for Upper Urinary Tract Stones in Patients with Prior Urosepsis Following Emergency Drainage via Retrograde Ureteral Stent or Percutaneous Nephrostomy
Authors: Sucai Liao , Xu Xiang , Yuan Yuan , Tang Keiyui , Wei Genggeng , Lu Zhengquan , Xiong Lin
Published: August 2023

Background
Patients with urosepsis associated with upper urinary tract stones require further stone management after emergency drainage.
Objective
To evaluate the safety and efficacy of elective flexible ureteroscopic lithotripsy (F-URSL) for upper urinary tract stones in patients with prior urosepsis who have undergone emergency drainage using retrograde ureteral stent(RUS) or percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN).
Method
Between January 2017 and December 2021, clinical data were collected for 102 patients who underwent elective F-URSL following emergency drainage for urosepsis caused by upper ureteral or renal stones. The patients were categorized into two groups based on the drainage method used: the RUS group and the PCN group. The collected data included patient demographics, stone parameters, infection recovery after emergency drainage, and clinical outcomes post F-URSL. Subsequently, the data underwent statistical analysis.
Results
A total of 102 patients were included in the statistical analysis, with 58 (56.86%) in the RUS group and 44 (43.14%) in the PCN group. Among the patients, 84 (82.35%) were female and 18 (17.65%) were male, with an average age of 59.36 years. Positive urine cultures were observed in 71 (69.61%) patients. Successful drainage was achieved in all patients in both groups, and there were no significant differences in the time required for normalization of white blood cell count (WBC) and body temperature following drainage. Additionally, all patients underwent F-URSL successfully, and no statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of operative time, stone-free rates, postoperative fever, and postoperative hospital stay.
Conclusion
Both RUS and PCN have been established as effective approaches for managing urosepsis caused by upper urinary tract stones. Furthermore, the impact of these two drainage methods on the subsequent management of stones through elective F-URSL has shown consistent outcomes.
Optimal Deployment and Path Planning for Relay Based UAV Assisted Cooperative Wireless Networks for Emergency Scenarios
Authors: Nelapati Lava Prasad , Barathram Ramkumar
Published: August 2023

UAV-assisted wireless communication is crucial for ensuring seamless connectivity and information exchange, particularly in emergency scenarios where timely communication can be a matter of life and death. This paper proposes a UAV-assisted wireless network for emergency applications, utilizing multiple cluster and relay UAVs in rural and semi-urban environments. Each cluster UAV serves the users within its assigned cluster, while the relay UAV facilitates information transfer between uncovered cluster UAVs and the central server. To achieve effective clustering, a medoid-based algorithm is employed for grouping ground users, and mean-shift clustering is utilized to determine the horizontal locations of multiple cluster UAVs. Furthermore, machine learning-inspired stochastic optimization algorithms are used to enhance the optimal path planning of relay UAVs. Monte Carlo simulations were performed to demonstrate the optimality and convergence of the proposed methods in terms of the aggregate of users served and the amount of power saved, which proved to outperform other algorithms in the literature.
Detection and quantification of 5moU RNA modification from direct RNA sequencing data
Authors: Li Jiayi , Sun Feiyang , He Kunyang , Zhang Lin , Meng Jia , Huang Daiyun , Zhang Yuxin
Published: August 2023

Background
Chemically modified therapeutic mRNAs have gained its momentum recently. In addition to commonly used modifications (e.g., pseudouridine), 5moU is considered a promising substitution of uridine in therapeutic mRNAs. Accurate identification of 5-Methoxyuridine (5moU) would be crucial for the study and quality control of relevant IVT mRNAs. However, current methods exhibit deficiencies in providing comprehensive methodologies for detecting such modification. By taking advantage of Oxford nanopore direct RNA sequencing, we present here NanoML-5moU, a machine-learning framework designed specifically for the read-level detection and quantification of 5moU modification.
Results
Nanopore direct RNA sequencing data of 5moU-modified and unmodified control samples were collected. We then examined signal event features (i.e., current intensity means, medians, standard deviations, and dwell time) and classical machine learning algorithms, including Support Vector Machine (SVM), Random Forest (RF), and XGBoost, for 5moU detection within NNUNN (N = A, C, T or G) 5-mers. The signal event features for each base of NNUNN 5-mers, plus the XGBoost algorithm achieved exceptional performance (maximum AUROC = 0.9567 in “AGTTC”, minimum AUROC = 0.8113 in “TGTGC”), substantially surpassing the existing background error comparison model (ELIGOs AUC 0.751 for site-level prediction).
Availability:
The NanoML-5moU framework is publicly available on GitHub (https://github.com/JiayiLi21/NanoML-5moU).
Conclusions
NanoML-5moU enables accurate read-level profiling of 5moU modification with nanopore direct RNA-sequencing, which is also transferable to the detection of other kinds of modifications and biological samples.