bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Heavy Flavor Physics at the sPHENIX Experiment
Authors: Shi Zhaozhong
Published: January 2024

The sPHENIX experiment is a state-of-the-art jet and heavy flavor physics detector which successfully recorded its first Au + Au collision data at 200 GeV at RHIC. sPHENIX will provide heavy flavor physics measurements covering an unexplored kinematic region and unprecedented precision at RHIC to probe the parton energy loss mechanism, parton transport coefficients in quark-gluon plasma, and the hadronization process under various medium conditions. At the center of sPHENIX, the Monolithic-Active-Pixel-Sensor (MAPS) based VerTeX detector (MVTX) is a high-precision silicon pixel detector. The MVTX provides excellent position resolution and the capability of operating in continuous streaming readout mode, allowing precise vertex determination and recording a large data sample, both of which are particularly crucial for heavy flavor physics measurements. In this work, we will show the general performance of heavy-flavor hadron reconstruction. In addition, we will discuss the commissioning experience with sPHENIX. Finally, we will provide the projection of b-hadron and jet observables and discuss the estimated constraints on theoretical models.
Interactions of Acetylene-Derived Thioester Collectors with Gold Surfaces: A First-Principles Study
Authors: Qiu Xianyang , Qi Yuechao , Wei Dezhou , Zhang Faming , Wang Chenghang
Published: January 2024

The high reactivity of acetylene group the formation of strong chemical bonds with active sites on mineral surfaces, thereby improving the flotation performance of gold minerals. This study utilized Density Functional Theory (DFT) to analyse the quantum chemical parameters of structure, Mulliken population, and the frontier orbitals of a thioester collector containing an acetylene group, PDEC (prop-2-yn-1-yl diethylcarbamodithioate). PDEC is compared with analogous thioester collectors Z-200 and Al-DECDT, and the interaction mechanism of PDEC on the Au(1 1 1) surface is simulated, followed by empirical validation through adsorption experiments. The findings indicate that S atom of PDEC in the carbon-sulfur group exhibit shorter covalent bond lengths, and reduced carbon-sulfur double bonds and Mulliken population, resulting in enhanced electron localization. This confers greater selectivity to PDEC during its adsorption on mineral surfaces. Frontier orbital analysis shows that the electrons of acetylene group possess a notable electron-accepting capacity, significantly influencing frontier orbital energy of PDEC and playing a pivotal role in the bonding interaction with mineral surfaces. Both the S atom in carbon-sulfur group and its acetylene group establish stable adsorption structures with the A(111) surface in a single coordination mode. The adsorption energy sequence is PDEC > Al-DECDT > Z-200. Partial density of states demonstrates that S 3p orbit of carbon-sulfur group hybridize with Au 5d orbit, while the C 2p orbit of the acetylene group engage in weaker back-donation bonding with Au 5d orbit. This is corroborated by electron density difference and post-adsorption Mulliken population analyses, revealing that S atom of carbon-sulfur group in PDEC donate electrons to Au atom, forming dominant positive coordination bonds, whereas the acetylene group accepts partial electrons from Au atom, resulting in weaker back-donation bonds. The adsorption experiments align with the DFT adsorption energy results.
Amentoflavone’s Antimicrobial Potential: Molecular Docking Studies Targeting Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Helicobacter pylori, Haemophilus influenzae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Ferrari Ivan Vito
Published: January 2024

This study investigates the potential antimicrobial utility of the natural substance Amentoflavone against four dangerous bacterial strains—Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Helicobacter pylori, Haemophilus influenzae, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Utilizing molecular docking studies, are assessed the binding interactions between Amentoflavone and key protein targets crucial for the viability of these bacteria. The findings suggest promising binding affinities, particularly in the active sites of Aminoglycoside 2'-N-acetyltransferase, Thioredoxin Reductase, N-acetylneuraminate Lyase, and Glucose-1-phosphate Thymidylyltransferase in the respective bacterial strains. While these in silico results provide initial insights, further in vitro and in vivo experiments are essential to validate the biological relevance and efficacy of Amentoflavone as a potential antimicrobial agent against these bacterial pathogens.
Research on the Terrain Characteristics of Changbai Mountain and Its Impact on Precipitation and Wind Distribution
Authors: Liang Li , Ai Wanxiu , Yang Xiaodan , Zhao Luqiang
Published: January 2024

The terrain of Changbai Mountain has great influence on the distribution of atmospheric flows and the occurrence and development of precipitation. This study quantitatively analyzes the regional characteristic of topographic perturbations and the relationship between terrain, wind and precipitation in Changbai Mountain region, by using a spectral analysis of the two-dimensional discrete cosine transform. Three domains with relatively heavy summer precipitation are selected as the study region. The results indicate that the overall terrain of Changbai Mountain region exhibits anisotropic characteristics. The terrain spectra of domain B are less than those of domain A and C across the whole wavelength (λ) bands, indicating that the large-scale topographic perturbations of domain B are relatively weak. The largest topographic spectral peak of domain C shows the most pronounced undulation of terrain among the three domains. The dominant wavelengths of terrain height variance for domain A and C, both close to the respective maximum wavelengths, indicate more prominent large-scale topographic perturbations. For domain A, the variation of the precipitation spectra is consistent with that of the wind spectra at the wavelength bands of λ < 390 km, showing a high correlation between wind field and the occurrence of rainfall. The inverse relationship at larger wavelengths indicates that multiple factors contribute to the occurrence of rainfall. For domain B, there is consistency in the fluctuations of terrain spectra, precipitation spectra, and wind spectra at the wavelength bands of λ < 278.3 km, implying that the smaller-scale terrain has an important effect on the occurrence of summer precipitation. For domain C, the variations of terrain spectra, precipitation spectra, and wind spectra are almost consistent across the whole wavelength bands, indicating that the large-scale terrain and minor terrain both play a crucial role in atmospheric uplift and the occurrence and development of summer rainfall.
Analyzing Blood Cells of High-Risk Myelodysplastic Syndrome Patients Using Interferometric Phase Microscopy and Fluorescent Flow Cytometry
Authors: Barnea Itay , Luria Lior , Girsault Arik , Dabah Ofira , Dudaie Matan , Merkel Drorit , Shaked Natan T
Published: January 2024

(1) Background: Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of diseases that affect the morphology and function of neutrophils. Rapid diagnosis of MDS is crucial for the initiation of treatment that can vastly improve disease outcome. (2) methods: In this work, we present a new approach for detecting morphological differences between neutrophils isolated from blood samples of high risk MDS patients and that for patients and blood bank donors (BBDs). First, using fluorescent flow cytometry CD66b positive cells were stained with 2′,7′-dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCF) and Hoechst. Secondly, we imaged the cells using interferometric phase microscopy (IPM) without utilizing cell staining. (3) Results: flow cytometry results show MDS patients present different dispersion patterns compared to BBDs. BBDs present two distinct subpopulations (one of these are the H cells constituting 16% for neutrophils) whereas MDS patients present only 4% of this subpopulation. IPM results are consistent with this pattern: ~20% of BBDs neutrophils were characterized as H cells and whereas MDS patients present only ~4% of these cells. (5) Conclusion- IPM can be utilized for diagnosis of complex hematological pathologies such as MDS.
Downregulation of TASK-3 Channel Induces Senescence of Granulosa Cells in the Bovine Follicular Cystic Ovary
Authors: Kim Chang-Woon , Kim Eun-Jin , Woo Min Seok , Cao Dang Long , Cirunduzi Asifiwe Clarisse , Ryu Ji Hyeon , Kong Il-Keun , Lee Dong Kun , Hong Seong-Geun , Han Jaehee , Kang Dawon
Published: January 2024

Ovarian cysts are linked to hormone imbalances and altered gene expressions, but the connection between cysts and ion channel expression is understudied. This study explored the role of TWIK-related acid-sensitive K+ (TASK) channels in bovine ovarian cyst formation. The ovarian follicles were split into small (5 to 10 mm in diameter) and large (> 25 mm in diameter) groups. Among the measured K+, Na+, and Cl- concentrations in follicular fluid (FF) obtained from small-sized follicles (SF) and large-sized follicles (LF), the K+ concentration was significantly lower in LFFF. Quantitative PCR, western blot, and immunocytochemistry data revealed that TASK-3 expression levels significantly decreased by approximately 50% in both LF and granulosa cells obtained from LF (LFGCs) compared to the corresponding controls. The TASK-3 protein was localized to the plasma membrane of GCs. The diameter of LFGCs was larger than that of SFGC. The cell swelling response to exposure to a hypotonic solution (200 mOsm/L) was highly reduced in TASK-3-overexpressing cells compared to vector-transfected cells. TASK-3-knockdown cells showed arrested growth. Senescence markers were detected in LFGCs and TASK-3-knockdown cells. These findings suggest that reduced TASK-3 expression in LF is associated with the inhibition of GC growth, leading to senescence and cyst formation.
A Novel Mathematical Approach with a Correlating Computational Framework for Precisifying Aneurysmal Therapeutics
Authors: Deouskar Aadittya , Agrawal Dhawal
Published: January 2024

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a chronic disease in which the abdominal aorta expands until it ruptures. AAA incidence: 10 million/year (India), deaths: 40%-90% (13th leading cause of death in the USA). Current treatment methods make diagnosis difficult due to the lack of noticeable symptoms and inaccurately planned operations. Rupture Scope is a mathematical model to dramatically reduce AAA deaths and improve treatment efficiency. Using a case-specific replica/simulation of real-time abdominal aortic blood flow for monitoring without frequent imaging scans and a novel derived mathematical linear regression model to predict rupture date and expansion rate with an overall accuracy of 95.64%.
CMARL: A Multi-agent Deep Reinforcement Learning Model with Emphasis on Communication Content
Authors: Chang Ande , Ji Yuting , Wang Chunguang , Bie Yiming
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the viability of employing multi-agent reinforcement learning technology for adaptive traffic signal control has been extensively validated. However, owing to restricted communication among agents and the partial observability of the traffic environment, the process of mapping road network states to actions encounters numerous challenges. To address this problem, this paper proposes a multi-agent deep reinforcement learning model with an emphasis on communication content (CMARL). The model decouples the complex relationships between multi-signal agents through centralized training and decentralized execution. Specifically, we first pass the traffic state through an improved deep neural network to achieve the extraction of high-dimensional semantic information and the learning of the communication matrix. Then the agents selectively interact with each other based on the learned communication matrix and generate the final state features. Finally, the features are inputted to the QMIX network to achieve the final action selection. We compare the CMARL model with 6 other baseline algorithms in real traffic networks. The results show that CMARL can significantly reduce vehicle congestion, and run stably in various scenarios.
Advancing Lithium Battery Performance through Porous Conductive Polyaniline-Modified Graphene Composites Additive
Authors: Lin Hao Tung , Chuang Eunice , Lin Sheng Chun
Published: January 2024

This study is dedicated to enhancing lithium battery performance through the utilization of porous conductive polyaniline-modified graphene composites (PMGC). Given the growing importance of green energy, coupled with the development of lithium-ion battery systems and electric vehicles, achieving high-speed charge and discharge performance has become imperative. Traditional approaches involve incorporating additives like carbon nanotubes and graphene into electrodes to improve conductivity, but they encounter challenges related to cost and aggregation issues. In this study, polyaniline (PANI), a cost-effective, stable, and conductive polymer, was explored. PMGC was formed by employing ammonium persulfate (APS) as an oxidant during PANI polymerization, simultaneously serving as a surface modifier for graphene.

The study systematically investigated the impact of varying amounts of PMGC on lithium-ion battery electrodes, assessing reductions in internal resistance, aging effects, different charge and discharge rates, and cycle performance. PMGC exhibited a porous structure formed by nanoscale PANI intertwining on graphene. Various measurements, including FT-IR, TGA, Raman spectroscopy, and battery performance assessments, confirmed the successful synthesis and positive effects of PMGC.

Results indicated that a 0.5% addition of PMGC led to reduced internal resistance and enhanced fast charging and discharge capacity. However, excessive PMGC adversely affected aging and self-discharge. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing PMGC content for improved lithium battery performance, presenting potential advancements in energy storage systems and electric vehicles.
Genomic Insights and Synthetic Biology Applications of Marine Actinomycete Streptomyces griseoincarnatus HNS054
Authors: Wang Qinghua , Zhao Jing , Liu Zhaoyuan , Ding Shaoxiong , Huang Zhiyong , Chen Jun
Published: January 2024

Streptomyces sp. HNS054, which was previously isolated from a marine sponge, demonstrates vigorous growth and facile genetic modification. This study explores its potential as a marine ac-tinomycete chassis through complete genome sequencing and genetic engineering. With a 7.5 Mb genome containing 6678 predicted genes, 21 secondary metabolic biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), and 8 common site-specific recombination (SSR) system attB loci, HNS054 shows a close phylogenetic relation to S. griseoincarnatus strain RB7AG. Utilizing multiplexed site-specific ge-nome engineering (MSGE) and the CRISPR/Cas9 method, engineered strains derived from HNS054 (with three copies of the target BGCs) produce higher amounts of aborycin and ac-tinorhodin than S. coelicolor M1346 (containing three copies of the same BGCs). HNS054 stands out for its remarkable characteristics, including salt tolerance, rapid growth, and compatibility with synthetic biology tools, and positions it as a promising candidate for developing marine ac-tinomycete hosts to enhance secondary metabolite production.
Application of Deep Learning Algorithm in Optimization Control of Electrostatic Precipitator in Coal-fired Power Plants
Authors: Zhu Jianjun , Feng Chao , Zhao Zhongyang , Yang Haoming , Liu Yujie
Published: January 2024

The new energy structure needs to balance energy security and dual carbon goals, which has brought major challenges to coal-fired power plants, the pollution reduction and carbon emissions reduction of coal-fired power plants will be a key task in the future. This article proposes an optimization operation of electrostatic precipitators(ESP), based on the working mechanism and historical data of ESP, voltage-current characteristic model and outlet dust concentration prediction model are constructed by deep learning algorithm, Particle Swarm Optimization(PSO) is used to achieve the optimal energy consumption while ensuring stable outlet dust concentration. By training with historical data collected on site, accurate prediction of secondary current and outlet dust concentration of ESP has been achieved, the Mean Absolute Percentage Error(MAPE) of secondary current is less than 1.5%, and the MAPE of outlet dust concentration of ESP on the test set is less than 5.2%. Finally, the optimization experiment is carried out in a 330MW coal-fired power plants, the results showed that the fluctuation of the outlet dust concentration is more stable, and the energy saving is about 43% after optimization, according to the annual operation of 300 days, the annual average carbon reduction is approximately 2621.34 tons. This method is effective and can be applied widely.
New Nodes for Node‐RED Library within OpenBCI Category for EEG‐Based Brain‐Machine Interface Design and Integration in IoT
Authors: Kremenska Adelina , Lekova Anna
Published: January 2024

The growing of Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) applications is closely related to the increasing accessibility of Electroencephalography (EEG) hardware (EEG headsets), which are noninvasive, portable, wireless and often with open software. However, there is a limited number of BCI software platforms tailored to help inexperienced programmers in the development of BCI applications. Only few of them integrate BCI applications with IoT devices and services. To address these challenges, a model for visual node-based programming has been designed utilizing BrainFlow library within the Node-RED platform, which can be applied to more than 20 biosensors. New Nodes for Node-RED Library within OpenBCI Category (openBCI toolkit for Node-RED) have been developed for design of EEG-Based Brain-Machine Interface and Integration in IoT. The proposed toolkit have been implemented and validated through a case study for controlling a robotic arm by OpenBCI headset. The results from the pilot experiment demonstrated that through concentration levels classified by BrainFlow performance metrics, the control of a TinkerKit Braccio robot arm is possible.
Vaccination and Patient Status of Long COVID-19 Hospitalized Patients: A Cohort Observational Study
Authors: Kirbiš Simona , Sobotkiewicz Nina , Schaubach Barbara Antolinc , Završnik Jernej , Kokol Peter , Završnik Matej , Vošner Helena Blažun
Published: January 2024

Long COVID–19 syndrome is another vicious feature of COVID-19 infection, the mechanism remains unidentified. Several observational studies suggest that vaccinations might have protective and therapeutic effect on long COVID-19 and our study aimed to assess the influence of vaccination on COVID-19 patients. We performed an observational cohort study from October 2020 to July 2022, which included 503 patients (291 males and 212 females) with a median age of 65. They were hospitalized due to COVID-19 pneumonia and had persistent symptoms (after 1 month of COVID-19 infection. The clinical and demographic data including vaccination status collected during hospitalization and regular visits at the Community Healthcare Center dr. Adolf Drolc Maribor were analyzed. More non-vaccinated patients acquired long COVID-19 than vaccinated. Patients with type 2 diabetes suffered from long COVID-19 in a smaller percentage than patients without diabetes. Gender, inhalational therapy due to chronic pulmonary disease and the number of complications have significantly influenced long COVID-19 development and the mostly vaccinated patients were older and with asthma/COPD. Our study confirmed that vaccination is a safe and effective measure to prevent the severe progression of acute disease and to lower the incidence of developing long COVID.
One Is the Loneliest N: An Autobiographical Report of Long COVID
Authors: O'Connor Angela
Published: January 2024

Long Covid is a debilitating condition that has been well-documented over the past 4 years and shares many similarities with other post-viral chronic illnesses. Despite this, clinicians are not confident in recognising the signs of Long Covid, or effectively managing the symptoms of their patients. This paper presents a single patient case report from a biomedical researcher who has had Long Covid for 2 years; it is written in relatively plain language to be accessible to both patients and clinicians across multiple specialities. The author has had the ability and expertise to keep up with the Long Covid research literature, and from that has cobbled together a management strategy that has alleviated her own symptoms, and those of other people with whom she has shared her protocol. The author’s experience of developing and managing her Long Covid is presented here, in the hopes that it may be of assistance to clinicians in identifying and managing Long Covid in their own patients.
Whole Exome Sequencing and Analysis of T Cell Receptor β & γ Repertoires in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Cho Jooyoung , Kim Juwon , Song Ju Sun , Uh Young , Lee Jong-Han , Lee Hyang Sun
Published: January 2024

We investigated the potential genetic variants using whole exome sequencing (WES) and evalu-ated the disease course using T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire analysis in rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Fourteen patients with RA and five healthy controls (HCs) were enrolled. For patients with RA, only naïve patients were recruited before treatment, and data were collected at baseline and 6 and 12 months after the initiation of disease-modifying antirheumatic drug (DMARD) treatment. Laboratory data and disease parameters were also collected. Genetic variants were detected using WES, and the diversity of the TCR repertoire was assessed using Shannon-Weiner diversity. Some variants were detected by WES, but their clinical significance should be confirmed by further studies. The diversity of the TCR repertoire in patients with RA was lower than that in HCs; however, after DMARD treatment, it increased significantly. The diversity was negatively cor-related with laboratory findings and disease measures with statistical significance. Variants with a potential for RA pathogenesis were identified and the clinical significance of TCR repertoire was evaluated in Korean patients with RA. Further studies are required to confirm the findings of the present study.
Harnessing NKG2D CAR-T Cell Therapy to Target Solid Tumors: Advancements and Applications
Authors: Chasov Vitaly , Rizvanov Albert
Published: January 2024

Here we explore the emerging role of NKG2D CAR-T cell therapy in the realm of solid tumor treatment. Unique capabilities of NKG2D CAR-T cells to recognize stress-induced ligands on cancer cells are discussed, highlighting the therapy's potential for targeted and precise antitumor responses. We also examine the challenges and opportunities associated with NKG2D CAR-T cell therapy, emphasizing the ongoing advancements and clinical trial progress shaping its future. Ultimately, the discussion underscores the transformative promise of NKG2D CAR-T cell therapy in revolutionizing the landscape of solid tumor treatment and enhancing the prospects for improved patient outcomes.
Development of Anti-HIV Therapeutics: From Conventional Drug Discovery to Cutting-Edge Technology
Authors: Sun Yaping , Wang Lingyun
Published: January 2024

With the first case of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection confirmed in US in 1981, the efforts of discovering anti-HIV therapeutics have been continued ever since. Ten years later, the first HIV drug zidovudine (AZT) was developed to inhibit HIV reverse transcriptase. At meantime, scientists were enlightened to discover new drugs of different targets acting on HIV integrase, protease, and host receptors. The advent of combination antiretroviral therapy (cART) is completely a game changer, with high efficiency in suppressing viremia for people with HIV (PWH) by controlling the viral load below the detectable level. On the bright side, the ART treatment has made HIV a chronic infection rather than a fatal disease. However, it cannot eradicate integrated HIV DNA from the host cells, thus the latent viral reservoir has become a lifelong threaten. In this review, we first discuss the scientific history of conventional HIV drug discovery, with more and more anti-HIV agents have been developed to solve drug resistant issue and relieve the side effect. As a complementary therapy, advanced gene editing technologies have been applied to excise HIV provirus from host genome. Within four decades, novel research conducted on HIV treatment and their contributions to eliminate HIV have been altogether summarized in our review.
The Challenges of Decentralization Fiscal Regulations: Experience from the Philippines
Authors: Elvira Elvira , Susanto Susanto , Soriano Elmer Micu
Published: January 2024

This research aims to understand, analyze, and detail the experience of fiscal decentralization in Indonesia and the Philippines. It explores the main challenges faced in implementing fiscal decentralization policies and valuable lessons that can guide other third countries planning to expand their local entities' fiscal authority. By comparing the experiences of the two, we can explore the similarities and differences in approaches and analyze their impact on economic development and local empowerment. The results show that decentralization in the Philippines is comprehensive and has one of Southeast Asia's most substantial legal bases. Moreover, each tier or each type of local government has a rather direct relation to the central government, especially in fiscal relationships, and is relatively independent compared to other countries in the region.
Social Security of Migrant Workers from Ukraine in EU Member States
Authors: Zhuravel Valeriy O. , Karpushova Olena V. , Bielousov Volodymyr D. , Platonova Hanna , Dyachenko Olha A.
Published: January 2024

Labor migration is becoming a growing trend in the modern labor market. It has positive aspects, such as the redistribution of labor and the increase in human capital efficiency. However, along with other elements of a flexible labor market, labor migration can also threaten workers' social protection. The study of social security issues helps to assess the extent to which these workers have access to the necessary social services and benefits, which contribute to their well-being and encourage further contribution to the economy. The primary research method is system analysis, which considers social security as a complex system that includes various components, interrelationships, and influences. The research results found that EU legal acts are equality-oriented and give EU member states the opportunity to set their own rules for migrants coming from third countries. As the economic and social situation in different EU countries differs, member states are trying to preserve the shared values and principles of the Union while protecting their markets from additional social obligations related to the employment of third-country nationals. The priorities of Ukraine's migration policy are to protect citizens' rights and interests abroad and coordinate social security systems with recipient countries of Ukrainian labor migrants.
Increasing Burden of Lower-Extremity Fractures in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA)
Authors: Hoveidaei Amir Human , Nakhostin-Ansari Amin , Heckmann Nathanael D. , Hosseini-Asl Seyed Hossein , Khonji Mohammad Saeid , Razi Mohammad , Mahdaviani Behnaz , Kistler Natalie M. , Aiyer Amiethab A.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Lower-extremity fractures (LEFs) account for >30% of all skeletal injuries, contributing to the global health and economic burden. Fracture epidemiology in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has been studied little. Health factors and disease epidemiology differ greatly among populations in MENA despite cultural, political, and economic similarities among the region’s countries. This study examined the epidemiology of LEFs and the need for rehabilitation in MENA from 1990 to 2019.

Methods:

We examined the epidemiology of fractures of the pelvis, hip, femur, patella, tibia, fibula, ankle, and foot bones using Global Burden of Disease (GBD) data. Fracture incidence, counts, and rates were measured for males and females across age groups in the 21 MENA countries as identified by the GBD data set. Associations between years of healthy life lost due to disability (YLD) resulting from fracture and the Socio-demographic Index (SDI) were analyzed.

Results:

In contrast to the global trend, the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) of LEFs in the MENA region increased by 4.57% from 1990 to 2019. In 2019, the highest ASIR among fractures was attributed to fractures of the patella, fibula, tibia, or ankle (434.36 per 100,000), most frequently occurring among those 20 to 24 years of age. In 2019, the highest ASIR of all fractures was noted in Saudi Arabia (2,010.56 per 100,000) and the lowest, in Sudan (523.29 per 100,000). The greatest increases from 1990 to 2019 in the ASIR of LEFs were noted in Yemen (132.39%), Syria (107.27%), and Afghanistan (94.47%), while the largest decreases were found in Kuwait (−62.72%), Sudan (−48.72%), and Iran (−45.37%). In 2019, the YLD rate of LEFs had increased to 277.65 per 100,000, up from 235.55 per 100,000 in 1990.

Conclusions:

Between 1990 and 2019, LEFs increased in the MENA region. Violence, war, and road traffic accidents increased, leading to a high rate of fractures, especially among youth. Low bone-mineral density related to vitamin D deficiency has also been reported as a risk factor for fracture in the region. Regional health authorities should be informed of fracture patterns by this study.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Historic Context for the WWII Internment and Prisoner-of-War (POW) Compound at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin
Authors: Schmidt Aaron , Baxter Carey , Schacht Kayley
Published: January 2024

This report provides a comprehensive historic context for the enemy alien internment compound and prisoner-of-war (POW) compound at Fort McCoy, Wisconsin, during World War II (WWII). Through primary and secondary sources, it illustrates the development of the internment and POW program at the installation, the built environment, labor details, and aspects of daily life. Although buildings associated with the internment and POW compound are no longer extant, researchers georeferenced historic maps of the compound to create digital footprints of the demolished infrastructure. Additionally, researchers generated and analyzed lidar returns to accentuate the signatures of former building foundations. Together, these processes can help fieldwork investigators determine the approximate locations of former internment and POW infrastructure.
Generación de biogas y biol a partir de la CO - digestión de aguas mieles procedentes del café y purín de porcino
Authors:   , Vasquez Vasquez Karolayne
Published: January 2024

El café es uno de los principales cultivos que se producen en el Perú. Su importancia se ve reflejada en el crecimiento de la oferta y demanda y se ha convertido en el sustento de más de 223 mil familias a lo largo de todo el país. La producción y tratamiento de este producto genera aguas mieles, que son eliminados al río y generan un impacto negativo en el ecosistema. En este contexto, el presente estudio tiene como finalidad generar una alternativa de solución a esta dificultad, brindando valor a dos fuentes orgánicas (agua miel procedente del café y al purín de porcino), a través de la elaboración de biogás y biol de calidad, y de la producción de energía a partir de fuentes orgánicas en las zonas. Se llevaron a cabo cuatro tratamientos (T1, T2, T3, T4) con proporciones diversas de agua miel y purín de porcino. El periodo de contención (días) para las tasaciones fueron: 120 días para el biol y biogás. Para el biogás, se evaluó: pH, temperatura, conductividad eléctrica, producción de gas y composición. Los resultados demostraron una mayor producción y calidad de biogás en el T4 (22.38 L) y (34.8% metano). En el proceso del biol, los examenes de coliformes fecales estuvieron dentro de lo establecido en el DS 020 – 2021 (Límites Máximos Permisibles) y las observaciones de macronutrientes fueron altos en T4. Se concluyó que el mayor nivel de biogás se presentó en T4, así como los mayores valores de macronutrientes, y la ausencia de coliformes; lo cual implica que es un buen abono, y que puede ser utilizado en el crecimiento y desarrollo de diversos cultivos.
Relación de la calidad de sueño y somnolencia excesiva diurna con cefalea primaria en estudiantes de Medicina Humana de la Universidad Científica del Sur
Authors:   , Figueroa Vidarte Yvanna Katherina Del Carmen , Ormeño Felix Frank Bruno
Published: January 2024

Introducción y objetivo: Las cefaleas primarias, la somnolencia diurna excesiva y la mala calidad del sueño son afecciones muy frecuentes que provocan una disminución del rendimiento académico que se producen durante el periodo universitario del estudiante de medicina humana. Se buscó determinar si la calidad del sueño y la somnolencia diurna excesiva se asocian con la cefalea primaria en estudiantes de medicina en la Universidad Científica del Sur en el año 2022 mediante encuestas específicas para cada patología. Metodología: El diseño de investigación del estudio es observacional descriptivo de tipo transversal con análisis exploratorio comparativo. El estudio incluye a los estudiantes de medicina de la universidad Científica del Sur matriculados en el año 2022. El estudio es un análisis primario de datos, por lo que se aplicó un cuestionario que contenga el Índice de calidad de sueño de Pittsburg, Escala de somnolencia de Epworth y el cuestionario basado en Rocha-Filho y HIT-6. Resultados: El análisis incluyó a 599 participante. Se encontró una alta proporción de estudiantes con cefalea primaria (82.64%), mala calidad del sueño (87.21%) y somnolencia excesiva diurna (70.11%). Asimismo, se reporto asociación entre la calidad del sueño [RP: 3.09 (IC 95%: 1.747-5.568)] y la somnolencia excesiva diurna [RP: 2.77 (IC 95%: 1.825-4.3230)] con cefalea primaria. Conclusiones: Se observó que la mala calidad del sueño y la somnolencia excesiva diurna se relaciona con la cefalea primaria en las actividades diarias de los estudiantes de medicina. Los resultados de nuestro estudio podrían ser de utilidad para los centros educativos y hospitalarios que albergan a los estudiantes de medicina para su aprendizaje, al ser resultados que reflejan las diferentes alteraciones que un estudiante de medicina promedio puede sufrir a lo largo de los siete años académicos.
Factores socioeconómicos que determinan el rendimiento ajedrecístico
Authors:   , Cuadros Rayme Carmen Rossmery , Perez Muñoz Greisy Lizbet
Published: January 2024

El objetivo de esta investigación es establecer si existen factores socioeconómicos que ayudan a predecir el rendimiento ajedrecístico de los jugadores juveniles peruanos, medido como la probabilidad de ganar una medalla (primer, segundo o tercer lugar) en un campeonato. Para ello, se analizó la información de la “Encuesta Nacional de Ajedrecistas Juveniles participantes en el Pan Floripa 2021”, aplicada por la Federación Deportiva Peruana de Ajedrez (FDPA) tras la realización del XXXI Festival Panamericano de la Juventud Híbrido 2021 (Pan Floripa 2021). Para predecir la probabilidad de ganar una medalla se estima un modelo de regresión binaria a través de la metodología de máxima verosimilitud, asumiendo una distribución de probabilidades logística. Los resultados muestran que la edad, el género, la calidad de acceso a internet, tener hermano(a)s y el rendimiento académico ayudan a predecir la probabilidad de que un jugador gane una medalla en una competencia ajedrecística. Si bien los coeficientes estimados no necesariamente representan efectos causales, el análisis sugiere que la probabilidad que tiene una mujer de ganar una medalla es mayor que la de un hombre en al menos 26 puntos porcentuales. Hasta donde se tiene conocimiento, esta es la primera investigación científica sobre el rendimiento de los ajedrecistas juveniles peruanos; además, sus resultados pueden ser útiles para identificar jugadores con alta probabilidad de ganar en campeonatos y diseñar estrategias orientadas a potenciar el rendimiento de los ajedrecistas.
UMPL- VINS: Generalized SLAM with Point and Line Features for Multi-scene Applications
Authors: Jiang Hao , Shang Yilin , Xue Shan , Guo Dongsheng , Zhang Weidong
Published: January 2024

The use of line features to improve the localization accuracy of visual inertial SLAM (VINS) based on point features is of increasing interest because of the additional constraints they provide on the scene structure. It is found that although the introduction of line features improves the accuracy of relative position estimation in some scenes due to the additional constraints, the two constraints only achieve an equalization for the estimated relative position. Therefore, in some environments two constraints can reduce the accuracy of the single-feature constraint algorithm and also make the real-time performance of the system more challenging. To address such issues, in this paper, we design a generalized SLAM system with point-line features that can be applied to multiple scenarios. We first enhance the image frames used for feature extraction by eliminating motion blur frames through the fuzzy metric method and mutation modeling of velocity and rotation. Then we improve the traditional line detection model by short line fusion, uniform distribution of line features, and refinement of edge features to obtain high-quality line features for building SLAM. Finally, based on the application of point features and line features for different scenes, a point and line feature separation-union model is proposed. In addition, we design a transformation model for line-point features to enhance the processing of point-line features. Experimental results on EuRoc, TUM_VI, KITTI, PennCOSYVIO and our own recorded dataset prove that the method proposed in this paper realizes a generalized SLAM with point and line features applied to multi-scenes with good advantages.
Isolation and characterization of lytic bacteriophages from various sources in Addis Ababa against antimicrobial-resistant diarrheagenic Escherichia coli strains and evaluation of their therapeutic Potential
Authors: Sada Tamirat Salile , Tessema Tesfaye Sisay
Published: January 2024

Background
Escherichia coli is a common fecal coliform, facultative aerobic, gram-negative bacterium. Pathogenic strains of such microbes have evolved to cause diarrhea, urinary tract infections, and septicemias. The emergence of antibiotic resistance urged the identification of an alternative strategy. The use of lytic bacteriophages against the control of pathogenic E. coli in clinics and different environmental setups (waste and drink water management) has become an alternative therapy to antibiotic therapy. Thus, this study aimed to isolate and characterize lytic bacteriophage from various sources in Addis Ababa, tested them against antimicrobial-resistant diarrheagenic E. coli strains and evaluated their therapeutic potential under in vitro conditions.
Methods
A total of 14 samples were processed against six different diarrheagenic E. coli strains. The conventional culture and plaque analysis agar overlay method was used to recover lytic bacteriophage isolates. The phage isolates were characterized to determine their lytic effect, growth characteristics, host range activity, and stability under different temperature and pH conditions. Phage isolates were identified by scanning electron microscope (SEM), and molecular techniques (PCR).
Results
In total, 17 phages were recovered from 84 tested plates. Of the 17 phage isolates, 11 (65%) were Myoviridae-like phages, and 6 (35%) phage isolates were Podoviridae and Siphoviridae by morphology and PCR identification. Based on the host range test, growth characteristics, and stability test 7 potent phages were selected. These phages demonstrated better growth characteristics, including short latent periods, highest burst sizes, and wider host ranges, as well as thermal stability and the ability to survive in a wide range of pH levels.
Conclusions
The promising effect of the phages isolated in this study against AMR pathogenic E. coli has raised the possibility of their use in the future treatment of E. coli infections.
Does minimally invasive external fixation of proximal humerus fractures provide adequate biomechanical stability?
Authors: Greinwald Markus , Matschl Franz , Regenbogen Stephan , Pätzold Robert , Blonna Davide , Augat Peter
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION : Proximal humerus fractures are usually treated with rigid angle-stable plates or nails. As an alternative, semi-rigid, minimally invasive systems have been developed for supportive fixation. A new system uses this principle with 2.5 mm partially threaded pins and external fixation.
AIM: This study aimed to compare the fracture stability of the fixator with an angular stable plate about whether the mechanical stability is sufficient for early postoperative mobilisation.
MATERIALS and METHODS: Human proximal humeri (paired, female, age ≥ 60, n = 8) were cut to a 3-part fracture and treated with an external fixator (Galaxy Shoulder, Orthofix) or an angular stable plate (Philos, DePuy Synthes). A physiological load was simulated based on a 45° abduction motion. The load level was continuously increased from 10 to 320 N within 10,000 cycles simulating the loads during rehabilitation. This was followed by another 10,000 cycles at 320 N for fatigue testing. Fracture motion was recorded with a 3D camera.
Fracture stability was evaluated at a partial load of 160 N (simulating loads during early mobilisation).
RESULTS: The fracture motion at the lateral aspect was significantly (p < 0.03) larger for the fixator compared to the plate both for axial and for shear movements, while at the medial aspects fracture motions were similar. Both fixation systems adequately stabilized the lateral tubercle fragment with no significant differences between fixation techniques. The migration of the fixator pins (1.1 ± 1.0 mm) and valgus rotation of the head fragment were minimal (3.1 ± 2.0°). The maximum load level of 320 N was reached by 7 plate constructs and 2 fixator constructs.
CONCLUSION: Our results suggest that the external fixator system allows early but gentle postoperative mobilisation. More aggressive rehabilitation measures should be postponed after the healing of the fracture.
Cation-ordering in low-temperature niobium-rich NbWO bronzes: New anodes for high rate Li-ion batteries
Authors: Grey Clare , Nagendran Supreeth , Mahadevegowda Amoghavarsha , Vema Sundeep , Danaie Mohsen , Song Weixin , Wen Bo , Ducati Caterina
Published: January 2024

Niobium tungsten oxide phases, as anodes for lithium-ion batteries, have gained considerable attention due to their high volumetric charge storage densities at high rates. Here we report the microwave-assisted solution-based synthesis and characterization of two new niobium tungsten bronze structures, NbWO5.5 and β−Nb2WO8, which adopt a simple tetragonal tungsten bronze (TTB) structure and a TTB with √2×√2 superstructure, respectively. These novel TTB structures were synthesized at temperatures below 900°C for Nb:W ratios of 1–3, the latter composition (Nb3WO10.5) resulting in a √2×√2 TTB closely related to β−Nb2WO8. Nb:W ≥ 4 compositions result in two-phase behaviour forming Nb2O5 and Nb3WO10.5, while W-rich bronzes (Nb/W < 1) exhibiting local domains of WO3 within the NbWO5.5 lattice. Through comprehensive analysis using X-ray and neutron diffraction and scanning transmission electron microscopy - energy dispersive spectroscopy (STEM-EDS) we observed cation ordering in the Nb-rich bronzes at both short and long length scales. The microwave synthesis method results in NbWO microspheres with a unique, microporous structure, where primary particles are interconnected by amorphous NbWO bridges. Notably, these NbWO bronzes, with the highest Nb content and thus specific energy density of all known NbWO bronzes, exhibited high-rate capabilities and long cycle lives, positioning them as promising candidates for energy storage applications. Our findings underscore the potential of the microwave-assisted solution method for synthesizing complex oxide materials, with significant implications for the development of advanced functional materials across diverse applications.
Effects of stacking LSTM with different patterns and input schemes on streamflow and water quality simulation
Authors: Hu Yucong , Jiang Yan , Yao Huiting , Chen Yiping , Wu Xuefeng
Published: January 2024

Streamflow and water quality parameters (WQs) are commonly forecasted by mechanism models and statistics models. However, these models are challenged due to computational complexity, redundant parameters, etc. Therefore, a stacking Long short-term memory networks (LSTM) model with two patterns and different input schemes was applied to simulate streamflow and eight WQs in this study. The results showed that sliding windows was detected as the more stable pattern for both forecasts. The accuracy of predicting streamflow using only meteorological inputs was limited especially with low-volume flow. Whereas, the prediction of WQs with three input variables (i.e., meteorological factors, streamflow, other influential WQs) was reliable reaching an average relative error (RE) below 17%. When adding historical data into the input dataset, both accuracies could be increased close to benchmarks of the Delft 3D model. Our study documents that the LSTM model is an effective method for streamflow and water quality forecasts.
Mathematical Model of the Human Inflammatory Response to Acute and Prolonged Lipopolysaccharide Exposure
Authors: Relouw Freek , Kox Matthijs , Taal Hendrik , Koch Birgit , Prins Menno , Riel Natal van
Published: January 2024

One in five deaths worldwide is associated with sepsis. Sepsis is defined as organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated host response to infection. An increased understanding of the pathophysiology of sepsis could provide improved approaches for early detection and treatment. Here we describe the development and validation of a mechanistic mathematical model of the inflammatory response, making use of a combination of in vitro and human in vivo data obtained from experiments where bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) was used to induce an inflammatory response. The new model can simulate the responses to both acute and prolonged inflammatory stimuli in an experimental setting, as well as the response to infection in the clinical setting. This model serves as a foundation for a sepsis simulation model with a potentially wide range of applications in different disciplines involved with sepsis research.