bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multifactor exploration and multi-objective optimization of trapezoidal threads
Authors: Zhou Yongchao , yan zhihua , Zhou Peng , Zheng Yanping
Published: July 2024

Threaded drive mechanism is widely used in many industries and fields, is an indispensable and important part of the mechanical transmission field, the study and optimization of the parameters of the trapezoidal thread in the transmission system can effectively improve the performance of the threaded drive mechanism. This paper takes the screw nut mechanism of a company's screw elevator as the research object, and researches the influence of its trapezoidal thread's main 4 parameters on the structural performance, and optimizes it. The thesis research is based on ansys software dynamics simulation, using orthogonal experimental design to study the influence of pitch, thread head number, trapezoidal thread tooth angle and tooth height on the dynamic performance of structural components, through the polar analysis of the 4 kinds of influencing factors for the degree of importance of the ranking, and the introduction of the modal frequency, the efficiency of the parameter target optimization results, to determine the best parameter combination design scheme. The results showed that the equivalent stress decreased by 29.1%, the 1st order modal frequency increased by 24.5%, and the transportation rate increased by 11.1%. The results supplement the relevant research results in the field of threads and provide theoretical support for the further development and safe application of trapezoidal thread structures in screw drives in the future.
Association of Autistic Traits with Inference Generation in Visual Narratives
Authors: Medeiros Stasha , Cohn Neil , Foulsham Tom , Coderre Emily
Published: July 2024

Autistic individuals sometimes demonstrate differences with narrative comprehension compared to non-autistic individuals. One particular aspect of narrative processing that is thought to be affected in autism is inferencing. Some studies using verbal narratives (i.e., written or spoken stories) have documented differences in inferencing skills among autistic participants. However, fewer studies have investigated inferencing abilities using visual narratives (e.g., comics) in autistic participants, despite mounting evidence that narrative comprehension shares similar cognitive mechanisms across verbal and visual domains. Here, we report two studies examining inference generation during visual narrative comprehension in adults with a range of autistic traits. Experiment 1 used a deletion recognition paradigm to examine participants’ accuracy (ACC) and reaction time (RT) to identify where a panel had been removed from a visual sequence. Experiment 2 used a self-paced viewing paradigm to examine viewing times on sequences that required an inference; ACC and RT on comprehension questions were also examined. In both experiments, individual differences in autistic traits and visual language fluency were examined. Across both studies, autistic traits modulated inferencing abilities and comprehension performance. Subsequent analyses identified differences in imaginative abilities as potentially underlying these modulations.
Assessing Suicidality in Adult ADHD Patients: Prevalence and Related Factors
Authors: Salvo Gabriele , Perotti Camilla , Filippo Lorenzo , Garrone Camilla , Rosso Gianluca , Maina Giuseppe
Published: July 2024

Background: The association between Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and suicidality has been subject of growing interest for research in the latest years. However, suicidality was generally assessed categorically and without validated instruments, which have led to heterogeneous or even conflicting evidence: the prevalence of both suicidal ideation and attempts vary considerably, and risk factors are not clear. Our study investigated suicidality in ADHD using a dimensional approach and a validated and internationally recognized instrument. Our primary aim was to evaluate the prevalence of suicidal ideation (SI), severe suicidal ideation (SSI), suicidal behavior (SB) and non suicidal self-injury behavior (NSSIB) in a sample of adult patients with ADHD. The second objective was to identify sociodemographic and clinical features associated with increased risk of suicidality in these patients.
Methods: The sample included 74 adult patients with clinical diagnosis of ADHD. Suicidality was assessed by administering the Columbia-Suicide Severity Rating Scale. Logistic regressions were used to examine predictors of SI, SSI, SB and NSSIB.
Results: The lifetime prevalence of SI and SSI were 59,5% and 16,2%, respectively. The 9,5% of patients showed lifetime SB, while NSSIB was found in 10,8% of the subjects. Lifetime SI was associated with severity of inattentive symptoms during adulthood, low self-esteem and impairment in social functioning. Lifetime SSI appeared related to severity of inattentive symptoms during childhood, attentional impulsiveness and number of hospitalizations, while physical activity appeared to be protective. The prevalence of lifetime SB and NSSIB didn’t appear significantly related to any socio-demographic or clinical feature.
Conclusions: Adults with ADHD are to be considered at risk of suicide and it is important to determine which patients are at higher risk, in order to guide preventive interventions. The association between ADHD and suicidal ideation didn’t appear to be influenced by psychiatric comorbidities, but rather by inattention itself, which represents the core symptom of ADHD.
Genetic Loci Determining Drought Resistance of Potato reveled by Genome-wide Association Study (GWAS)
Authors: Wang Kuan , Chen Jiepan , Liu Lei , Ma Benchi , Wang Lei , Feng Yan , Qi Lipan , Gong Xuechen , Yin Jiang , Wang Yan
Published: July 2024

Detecting the genetic footprint of drought resistance is important and imperative. Here, we report a high-quality genomic variation database by whole-genome resequencing of 230 potato individuals. Through phylogenetic population structure analysis, we uncover that the breeding of potatoes was international interaction, not independent. Selective-sweep analysis detected 560 drought resistance response related genes, including ZFP, MYB and ERF transcription factors. Furthermore, based on three different models, the genome-wide association studies for drought resistance identified a set of candidate genes, such as MYB, WRKY and ERF, PP2A, UGT, E3 ubiquitin ligase, ZFP, etc., some crucial candidate genes were identified by different models at the same time. Among them, 15 candidates were identified both by GWAS and selective-sweep analysis, significant SNP 4:1861996 in the exon region of LBR (late blight resistance protein) harboring different genotype with different drought resistance. Our study provides important insights into the genetic basis of drought resistance, and will facilitate the cultivation of drought-resistant potato.
A novel approach for reconstructing paleo-overpressure through basin simulations constrained by logging data——A case study of He 8 member in Sulige Gas field, Ordos Basin
Authors: zhang tao , zhang jingong , liu xiaopeng , cao qian , Ma tengfei
Published: July 2024

The application of basin simulation method for reconstructing the pressure evolution process is often limited by the availability of measured data, which can be challenging to obtain. In order to establish a correct relation between logging data and paleo-pressure, this paper proposes a novel approach to constrain the pressure reconstructed by basin simulation method. The Eaton index N corresponding to the paleo-pressure of each period is calculated using inversion method, based on measured paleo-pressure and logging data, in accordance with the Eaton formula. Subsequently, this value is utilized to calculate the paleo-pressure of other wells. The paleo-pressure results are compared with those reconstructed by basin simulation method to validate the reliability of the findings. The findings demonstrate a strong concurrence between the paleo-pressure calculated using the mean value of index N for each period and the reconstructed paleo-pressure obtained through basin simulation methodology, with an average error margin of less than ± 5%. Therefore, utilizing log data to constrain the paleo-pressure reconstructed by basin simulation method is a viable approach due to its ease of accessibility, strong continuity, and broad applicability and potential for application. This is particularly advantageous in regions where acquiring paleo-pressure data poses challenges. The paleo-dynamic conditions exert a significant influence on the distribution of gas and water in tight sandstone gas reservoirs, providing valuable insights for identifying favorable areas.
Prediction of fatal outcomes in German general aviation accidents - a new scoring system to facilitate emergency control centres
Authors: Hinkelbein Jochen , Hippler Catherina , Liebold Felix , Schmitz Jan , Rothschild Markus , Schick Volker
Published: July 2024

Background
Numerous accidents occur with General Aviation aircraft every year. To date, pre-emptive prediction of survival or death is impossible. The current study aims to identify significant factors elementary to predict survival after General Aviation (GA) aircraft accidents. The Implementation of a scoring system, including these factors, may facilitate emergency control centres.
Material and Methods
Data of flight accidents over a 20-year period (extracted from the German Federal Bureau of Aircraft Accident Investigation [BFU]) was analysed for fixed-wing motorized small aircrafts below 5,700 kg MTOW. Factors of interest were analysed using Chi2- and Mann-Whitney-U-Tests. Logistic regression was used to establish a score to calculate the probability of a fatal outcome after an aircraft accident.
Results
The BFU lists 1,595 GA aircraft accidents between 2000 and 2019. The factors “third quarter of the year” (p = 0.04), “last quarter of the year” (p = 0.002), “fire” (p < 0.0001), “distance from airport > 10 km” (p < 0.0001), “landing” (p < 0.0001) and “cruise” (p < 0.0001), significantly correlated positively or negatively with a fatal outcome. “Take-off”, “approach”, “month”, “day of the week”, “persons on board above three”, “night-time” and “icing conditions” showed no significant correlation. Using logistic regression “third quarter of the year” and “cruise” were excluded when using the B-STEP method. Including the four significant parameters, the score showed a strong effect with f2 = 0.709.
Conclusions
The analysis of GA aircraft accidents in Germany enabled the identification of relevant factors and establishment of a new scoring system for survival prediction after small aircrafts accidents below 5,700 kg MTOW. The implementation of the scoring system in emergency control centres in the context of digital development and artificial intelligence can improve emergency response planning and distribution.
The Mediating Role of Pulmonary Function in the Association between Grip Strength and Depression among Elderly Individuals
Authors: Wu Xinyu , Kong Suping , Wei Shijie , Ning Yike , Tang Yu , Wang Yijie , Zheng Yufan , Yu Xiaohua , Liu Chen , Cui Huafeng , Han Jing
Published: July 2024

Background: Amidst aging populations, late-life depression's yearly rise challenges senior health and strains healthcare systems. In light of this, there is an urgent need to identify and intervene in modifiable risk factors to alleviate this issue. This study aims to investigate the mediating role of pulmonary function in the longitudinal relationship between grip strength and depression.
Methods: We analyzed data from 6,313 CHARLS participants aged ≥60 from 2015-2018 waves, using linear regression and mediation analysis with 1,000 bootstraps to assess pulmonary function's mediation in grip strength-depression link.
Results: After adjusting for confounding variables, grip strength was found to be negatively associated with subsequent depressive symptom severity (β = -0.215, P < 0.001) and positively correlated with Pulmonary Function (β = 3.367, P < 0.001). Pulmonary Function's moderating effect accounted for 13.59% of the total effect between grip strength and depression. The size of the indirect effect was estimated at -0.034 (95% CI: -0.048, -0.022), indicating a statistically significant mediation.
Limitation: Our mediation analysis assumes linear relationships, though real-world dynamics are often multidimensional and nonlinear, possibly involving complex interactions.
Conclusion: Grip strength directly affects depression and indirectly via pulmonary function. To tackle senior depression, interventions should boost grip strength and lung function. Routine grip tests and promoting aerobic/resistance exercises to seniors can help maintain pulmonary function and healthy aging.
Indole-3-carbinol inhibits immune evasion in esophageal carcinoma by regulating CES1
Authors: Chen Qiao , Jiang Congbo , Li Hui
Published: July 2024

Immunotherapy is a new treatment method for solid tumors, but its effect on esophageal carcinoma (ESCA) is not as good as expected. Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) has been demonstrated to have anti-cancer effect. This study aimed to investigate the effect of I3C on immune evasion and the molecular mechanism. T cell percentage was analyzed using flow cytometry and T cell killing ability was evaluated using a lactate dehydrogenase kit and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. The molecular mechanism was explored based on bioinformatic analysis, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction, RNA binding protein immunoprecipitation, and dual-luciferase reporter assay. The results indicated that I3C inhibited ESCA cell viability, increased CD3+CD4+ and CD3+CD8+ T cells, cytotoxic rate, as well as IFN-γ and IL-2 levels, suggesting that immune evasion was suppressed by I3C. Moreover, I3C elevated the expression of CES1, which expression was decreased in ESCA. Besides, CES1 interacted with PD-L1 to increase its expression. Rescue experiments demonstrated the effect of the I3C/CES1/PD-L1 axis on immune escape. Taken together, I3C suppresses immune evasion in ESCA by increasing CES1 expression, which interacts with PD-L1. These findings suggest that I3C may be used to improve the effectiveness of immunotherapy.
Correlation between Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction and Cardiorespiratory Fitness in Patients With ST-Segment Elevation Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Li Jinglin , Zhao Wei , Tian Zhenyu , Hu Yumeng , Xiang Jianping , Cui Ming
Published: July 2024

We retrospectively investigated the relationship between cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) parameters and coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) using a novel angiography-based index of microcirculatory resistance (AccuIMR) in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) who underwent primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with complete revascularization. In 418 patients, the culprit vessel AccuIMR was calculated after successful primary PCI. CPET was conducted 44.04 ± 19.28 days after primary PCI. Overall, 157 patients (37.6%) showed elevated AccuIMR (> 40 U) in the culprit vessels. The LVEF was significantly lower in the CMD group than in the Non-CMD group. The CMD group showed worse results in VO2peak, peak O2-pulse, and VE/VCO2 slope than the Non-CMD group. Spearman correlation analysis suggested that VO2peak (r = -0.354), peak O2-pulse (r = -0.385) and VE/VCO2 slope (r = 0.294) had significant linear correlations with AccuIMR (P < 0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that AccuIMR was the independent predictor of reduced VO2peak and elevated VE/VCO2 slope. The proportions of positive and equivocal ECG results and early O2-pulse flattening in the CMD group were significantly higher than those in the Non-CMD group, and AccuIMR was the only independent predictor of these ischemia-relating indicators, suggesting that patients with CMD had significant noninvasively detectable myocardial ischemia.
Drivers of Irrational Antibiotic Use in Thailand: A Multilevel Analysis of Post-COVID-19 Trends
Authors: Prasit Nakarin , Phimha Surachai , Nonthamat Ampawan , Nilnate Nathakon , Nidthumsakul Nattaporn , Sresut Puwanart
Published: July 2024

Background
The misuse of antibiotics has become a significant problem in Thailand and was particularly exacerbated after the COVID-19 pandemic. Increased access to antibiotics during the pandemic has led to a heightened risk of irrational antibiotic use. This study aimed to analyze the relationships and identify factors associated with antibiotic usage behavior among the Thai population.
Methods
To examine the factors influencing antibiotic use behavior in Thailand post-COVID-19 and to provide recommendations for targeted interventions. This study utilized secondary data from the 2021 health and welfare survey conducted by the National Statistical Office of Thailand. A total sample of 22,173 individuals was analyzed using multilevel logistic regression, controlling for covariates including region, province, and municipal areas.
Results
The key factors influencing antibiotic use included experiencing illness (adjusted OR: 4.96, 95% CI: 4.40–5.60), sustaining injuries from accidents (adjusted OR: 2.82, 95% CI: 2.19–3.64), hospital admission due to illness (adjusted OR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.41–1.92), receiving dental care (adjusted OR: 1.31, 95% CI: 1.04–1.65), being ill but not receiving hospital treatment (adjusted OR: 1.84, 95% CI: 1.39–2.44), having problems and being unable to care for oneself (adjusted OR: 1.72, 95% CI: 1.42–2.08), ceasing prescribed medication (adjusted OR: 2.72, 95% CI: 2.40–3.09), and receiving information about antimicrobial resistance (adjusted OR: 5.09, 95% CI: 4.52–5.73).
Conclusion
The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions to address inappropriate antibiotic use. The government and relevant agencies should promote health awareness and literacy, develop effective medication reimbursement policies, and implement stricter regulations to minimize the adverse effects of antibiotic misuse. Enhanced public education and ensuring access to accurate information from healthcare professionals are essential for mitigating the threat of antimicrobial resistance in Thailand.
Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of kinesin genes superfamily suggested their roles in response to abiotic stress and fertility of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Chen Qinge , Ren Yang , Yan Qin , Zheng Zhiyuan , Zhang Gaisheng , Ma Lingjian , Song Qilu , Niu Na
Published: July 2024

Background
Kinesin is a motor for microtubule-based motility and plays a vital role in plant growth and development. The kinesins superfamily members are mainly known from Arabidopsis. However, little research about kinesins superfamily has been conducted on hexploid wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). The functions of kinesins in wheat growth and development, regulation of cell division and response to stress are still unclear.
Results
In this study, we identified 155 TaKIN genes in wheat, which were divided into 10 families and some ungrouped proteins by phylogenetic analysis. Less gene structural differences showed that TaKIN genes had redundant functions. The conserved domains of different family members were different, and some families might have some special functional domains. We found many cis-acting elements related to hormones (GA, Auxin, SA, MeJA), cell cycle, cell division in homeopathic elements of TaKIN genes. Collinearity analysis showed that TaKIN genes were more conservative in monocotyledons. Expression level in different tissues at different stages suggested that TaKIN family may function during the whole growth and development process of wheat. It was worth noting there were quite different at gene expression level between physiological and heritable male sterile lines during the different stages of pollen development. The differential expression patterns of some TaKIN genes between male sterile line and maintainer line might be related to wheat male sterile. Furthermore, we also found TaKIN genes were involved in response to plant hormones and abiotic stress by stress assays.
Conclusions
The result is useful for further exploring the molecular mechanism of kinesin genes in wheat male sterility and provides the important information in response to plant hormones and abiotic stress.
Synthesis of Ag@ CuS doped mineral magnetite nanocomposite with improved photocatalytic activity against tetracycline and diclofenac pollutants
Authors: kakhki Roya Mohammadzadeh , Bolandhemmat Hadis
Published: July 2024

The contamination of water sources by pharmaceutical pollutants presents significant environmental and health hazards, making the development of effective photocatalytic materials crucial for their removal. This research focuses on the synthesis of a novel Ag@CuS-doped magnetite nanocomposite and its photocatalytic efficiency against tetracycline and diclofenac contaminants. The nanocomposite was created through a straightforward and scalable precipitation method, integrating silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) and copper sulfide (CuS) into a magnetite framework. Various analytical techniques, including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), were employed to characterize the structural and morphological properties of the synthesized material. The photocatalytic activity was tested by degrading tetracycline and diclofenac under visible light. Results indicated a marked improvement in the photocatalytic performance of the Ag@CuS-doped magnetite nanocomposite compared to both pure magnetite and CuS-doped magnetite. The enhanced photocatalytic efficiency is attributed to the synergistic interaction between Ag NPs, CuS, and Fe3O4, which improves light absorption and charge separation, thereby increasing the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and promoting the degradation of the pollutants. This study highlights the potential of the Ag@CuS-doped magnetite nanocomposite as an efficient and reusable photocatalyst for eliminating pharmaceutical pollutants from water.
Construction of a well impairment model for determination of geothermal clogging
Authors: Hussain Ahmed , Meulenbroek Bernard , Gargar Negar Khoshnevis , Wolf Karl-Heinz
Published: July 2024

Producing geothermal heat from production water causes cooldown from the reservoir temperature up to 25 • C at fluid pressures from over 100 bar to 10 bar. During the process degassification of CO2 cause an increase in pH and by that dissolution and precipitation of minerals. At depth, mineral precipitation in the reservoir restricts flow paths through the cyclic system, resulting into injectiv-ity loss, by that higher injection pressures result in additional costs. In other words knowing where under (P,T)-conditions certain minerals are dissolved and generated helps to find spatial solutions that prevent the previously mentioned clogging and by that optimizes the fluid circulation. Due the large number of timesteps, numerically modeling mineralization, accounting for the reaction kinetics, can be computationally expensive. These simulations are less expensive when assuming a local equilibrium between the reactants and reaction-products. As described in [1] we present an analytical model for mineral precipitation in a low-enthalpy geothermal reservoir. The three different reaction regimes are (1) fast reactions (2) very slow reactions (3) reaction/transport intermediate 1 zone. We focus on the near-wellbore region in the reservoir, where precipitation can behave as a ‘skin’ and has a more dramatic impact on the injectivity than precipitation further downstream. Our numerical model uses a coupling approach between PHREEQC and COM-SOL utilizing the qualification of the different reaction regimes. This methodology was validated by using an analytical solution of a specific mineralization case. In addition it was compared to a field case.
The mediating role of health status in the relationship between indoor air pollution and life satisfaction among older adults in India
Authors: Adhikary Mihir , Goyal Amit , Akhtar Shamrin
Published: July 2024

Background
This research examines the link between indoor air pollution and overall contentment in life, considering health status as an intervening variable.
Methods
It utilizes a mediation analysis approach, drawing on data from 1st wave of the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) carried out in 2017-18, involving a cohort of 29,517 individuals aged 60 and older. The analysis proceeds through three models: first, examining the direct association of indoor air pollution with life satisfaction; second, assessing the impact of pollution on health; and third, integrating both to evaluate the mediation effect.
Results
Findings indicate a significant negative direct association of pollution with life satisfaction, with an association strength of -0.55(95%CI:-0.75 to -0.35, p < 0.001), and on health, with an association strength of -0.05(95%CI:-0.07 to -0.05, p < 0.001). Additionally, the mediation analysis, supported by the Sobel-Goodman Mediation Test (Z = -4.298, p < 0.001), reveals that health mediates 12.9% of the total impact of indoor pollution on life satisfaction.
Conclusions
These results underscore the critical role of health as a mediator in this relationship. Interventions aimed at reducing indoor air pollution could significantly enhance the well-being of older adults by improving their health.
Economic and Environmental Competitiveness of Multiple Hydrogen Production Pathways in China
Authors: Sun Bo , Fan Guangyao , Zhang Hui , Pan Fengwen
Published: July 2024

This study quantifies the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) and life cycle carbon emissions (LCCE) of four hydrogen production systems via water electrolysis in 31 provinces and regions of China through the optimization method, and compares with hydrogen production via coal, natural gas, and industry by-products. The results show that the grid-connected hydrogen production system via water electrolysis, which has low-carbon advantages only in specific provinces, and time-of-use electricity prices can improve its economic competitiveness. The off-grid hydrogen production system via water electrolysis can achieve near-zero carbon emissions, although significant investment is brought by configuring larger capacities for electricity energy storage and hydrogen storage tank. In 2045–2050, it will become the most economical pathway to produce hydrogen, certain carbon reduction incentives or production subsidy may enable this to happen 5–15 years earlier. Before then, hydrogen production via industry by-products is a good alternative for the development of hydrogen energy.
The role of the chemotactic cytokines in in tick-borne encephalitis – the observational clinical study
Authors: Grygorczuk Sambor , Czupryna Piotr , Martonik Diana , Parfieniuk-Kowerda Anna , Adamczuk Justyna , Dunaj-Małyszko Justyna , Giecko Maciej , Osada Joanna , Parczewski Miłosz , Flisiak Robert , Moniuszko-Malinowska Anna
Published: July 2024

Background
In tick-borne encephalitis (TBE), central nervous system is infiltrated by a mixed leukocyte population detectable as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pleocytosis, contributing both to an infection control and immune-mediated pathology. The chemotactic pathways controlling this leukocyte influx are not well defined.
Results
We studied serum and CSF samples from 103 TBE patients, using normal serum (n=19) and CSF (n=12) as controls. We measured concentrations of the chemotactic cytokines IL-16, CXCL1, CXCL2, CXCL5, CXCL6, IL-8, CXCL9, CXCL10, CXCL11, CXCL13, CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, CCL5, CCL7, CCL8, CCL11, CCL13, CCL17, CCL19, CCL20, CCL21, CX3CL1 and XCL1 with a micro-bead assay and of CXCL12 with ELISA. The CSF lymphocyte subpopulations were counted cytometrically with a fluorescent-labeled monoclonal antibody kit. DNA was isolated from patients’ blood samples and 10 polymorphisms in CCR2, CCL5, CCR5, CXCR3, CXCL10, CXCL11 and CX3CR1 genes studied with real-time PCR. We analyzed results with non-parametric tests and created multivariate linear regression models of leukocyte population counts in CSF and of the clinical severity dependent on chemokine CSF levels.
Except of CXCL2, CCL5 and XCL1, all the CSF chemokine concentrations were increased and the concentration index values favored their intrathecal synthesis. CXCL1, IL-8, CXCL10, CCL2, CCL3, CCL19 and CCL20 created chemotactic gradients towards CSF in 90-100% and CCL4, CCL7, CCL8 in about half of patients. The neutrophils associated predominantly with CXCL1 and IL-8 and the lymphocytes with IL-16, CCL19, CCL20, CCL4, CXCL12 and CXCL13, with consistent negative associations with CX3CL1 and CCL2. CCL11, CCL19, CXCL10 and CXCL13 associated with milder and CXCL1 and CCL20 with a more severe presentation. There were associations between the genotypes of CCR2, CCL5, CXCR3 and CX3CR1 and concentrations of the relevant chemokines.
Conclusions
CXCL1/CXCR2, IL-8/CXCR1, CCL19/CCR7, CCL20/CCR6, CCL4/CCR5, CXCL12/CXCR4, CXCL13/CXCR5 and possibly other signaling axes contribute to pleocytosis in TBE. IL-16 associates with pleocytosis in an unclear mechanism and CX3CL1 may be an antagonist of the leukocyte influx. The protective/immunopathogenic effects of chemokines are can be distinguished from their chemotactic effects, suggesting a complex relation between the inflammatory infiltrate and the clinical outcome. The genetic background influences chemokine expression in TBE.
Role of intraoperative ultrasound and MRI to aid grade of resection of pediatric low-grade gliomas. Accumulated experience from 4 centers
Authors: Dietvorst Sofie , Narayan Armen , Agbor Cyril , Hennigan Dawn , Gorodezki David , Bianchi Federico , Mallucci Conor , Frassanito Paolo , Padayachy Llewellyn , Schuhmann Martin Ulrich
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Pediatric low-grade gliomas (pLGG) are the most common brain tumors in children and achieving complete resection (CR) is the most important prognostic factor. There are multiple intraoperative tools to optimise the extent of resection (EOR). This article investigates and discusses the role of intraoperative ultrasound (iUS) and intraoperative magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) in the treatment of pLGG.
Methods
The tumor registries at Tuebingen, Rome and Pretoria were searched for pLGG with the use of iUS and data on EOR. The tumor registries at Liverpool and Tuebingen were searched for pLGG with the use of iMRI where preoperative CR was the surgical intent. Different iUS and iMRI machines were used in the 4 centers.
Results
We included 111 operations which used iUS and 182 operations using iMRI. Both modalities facilitated intended CR in hemispheric supra- and infratentorial location in almost all cases. In more deep seated tumor location like supratentorial midline tumors, iMRI has advantages over iUS to visualize residual tumor. Functional limitations limiting CR arising from eloquent involved or neighboring brain tissue apply to both modalities in the same way. In the long-term follow-up, both iUS and iMRI show that achieving a complete resection on intraoperative imaging significantly lowers recurrence of disease (Chi-square test, p < 0.01).
Conclusion
iUS and iMRI have specific pros and cons, but both have been proven to improve achieving CR in pLGG. Due to advances in image quality, cost- and time-efficiency, and efforts to improve the user interface, iUS has emerged as the most accessible surgical adjunct to date to aid and guide tumor resection. Since the EOR has the most important effect on long term outcome and disease control of pLGG in most locations, we strongly recommend taking all possible efforts to use iUS in any surgery, independent of intended resection extent, and iMRI if locally available.
FedGAC: Optimizing Generalization in Personalized Federated Learning via Adaptive Initialization and Strategic Client Selection
Authors: Yu Yichun , Yang Xiaoyi , Chen Zheping , Lan Yuqing , Xing Zhihuan , Yu Dan
Published: July 2024

Federated learning (FL) encounters significant challenges in heterogeneous client environments, due to statistical heterogeneity affecting the global model’s generalization. To address these issues, we introduce FedGAC, an efficient adaptive personalized FL (pFL) method focused on critical learning periods (CLP). Unlike existing methods that assume all training stages are equally critical and require participation from all clients, FedGAC strategically select clients during CLP to reduce computational and communication burdens. To enhance the global model’s generalization across statistically diverse clients, we integrate an Adaptive Initialization of Local Models (AILM) module with a personalized aggregation strategy. Training parameters are dynamically adjusted according to dataset quality, ensuring both accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, FedGAC employs parameter compression techniques to further reduce communication and computational costs. We validate the effectiveness of FedGAC through extensive experiments on four benchmark datasets in computer vision. The results demonstrate that FedGAC significantly enhances both accuracy and communication efficiency compared to state-of-the-art FL methods. This makes FedGAC a promising approach for addressing heterogeneity in pFL. The code is available at https://github.com/buaaYYC/FedGAC.git.
Anticancer Effects of Plantago major Extract on Colorectal and Gastric Cancer Cell Lines: An in vitro Study and Molecular Docking Analysis
Authors: Ozturk Rabia Yilmaz , Calik Hilal , Demir Ayhan , Cakir Rabia
Published: July 2024

Colorectal cancer and gastric cancer are one of the most prevalent types of cancer and are leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. The efficacy of chemotherapy is insufficient due to the poor targeting and affinity of drugs, low therapeutic effectiveness, significant side effects, and emergence of drug resistance. Consequently, the development of effective therapeutic formulations is a crucial research area for the treatment of colorectal and gastric cancers. Plantago major (P. major) is a medicinal plant that has been investigated for medical research for cancer therapy owing to its rich phytochemical composition, including aucubin, luteolin, baicalein, apigenin, and caffeic acid derivatives. This study aims to evaluate the antiproliferative activity of P. major herbal extract on NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells, AGS gastric, and Caco-2 colorectal cancer cell lines for 24 hours using XTT cell viability assay. Additionally, it assesses the interaction and binding affinities of the active compounds of P. major with the overexpressed EPCAM through molecular docking. The results demonstrate a dose-dependent anticancer effect of P. major on AGS and Caco-2 cell lines by reducing cell proliferation, increasing intracellular ROS accumulation and activating caspase 3/7 apoptosis pathway. P. major exhibited no significant cytotoxic effects on non-cancerous NIH/3T3 fibroblast cells. Molecular docking analysis confirmed the high binding affinity of active compounds in P. major extract, such as apigenin, aucubin, baicalein, caffeic acid, and luteolin, towards the EpCAM protein overexpressed in gastric and colorectal cancer. In conclusion, the P. major extract can be a promising effective therapeutic strategy for gastrointestinal cancers.
Sequencing depth (coverage) can bias microbial intraspecies diversity estimates and how to account for it
Authors: Bustos-Caparros Esteban , Viver Tomeu , Gago Juan , Venter Stephanus , Bosch Rafael , Konstantinidis Konstantinos T. , Rodriguez-R Luis , Rossello-Mora Ramon
Published: July 2024

Unbiased estimation of intraspecific microdiversity is key for many microbiome studies. While it is well-appreciated that coverage (or sequencing depth) below 10X can provide biased estimates of microdiversity due to random sampling of alleles, the impact of variable coverage exceeding 10X on such estimates remains essentially unknown. Here we show that this impact is significant, even at coverage levels of > 100X, and provide approaches to effectively deal with this bias.
Pursuing carbon neutrality by smallholder farmers through technology and policy innovation blocs
Authors: Zhang Weifeng , Li Bei , Li Jinghan , Yu Zhiwei , Xu Yang , Li Tingyu , Zhang Xin , Liu Jianguo , Zhuang Minghao , Tian Jing , Li Yangyang , Duan Zhiping , Zhang Fusuo
Published: July 2024

Carbon peak and carbon neutrality are the top priorities for global sustainability1,2. However, the optimal strategy is unclear because minor attention has been given to smallholder farmers' activities. This study used farming data from 4547 smallholder farmers in 356 smallholder communities across China and life cycle assessment methods to evaluate carbon mitigation progress on three major grain crops in China between 2009 and 2019 and the carbon neutrality strategy for 2030 and 2060. The results showed that small farmers in China changed their practices of farming, i.e., from straw burning to straw retention in the soil between 2009 and 2019. These significant changes decreased the three crops' greenhouse gas (GHG) emission intensities by 56.2%. The estimated GHG mitigation at the national scale was 617 Tg CO2-eq in the ten-year period. The national actions for controlling straw burning were driven by the two-wheel innovation of technologies and policies. However, other low-carbon technologies have yet to be widely adopted due to insufficient innovations and have contributed less or even more negatively to carbon neutrality. Therefore, the current staple grain production system is still a net emitter. By transferring the successful approach from no straw burning to other farming practices, including nutrient management, tillage, irrigation, non-flooded aerobic rice and closing the yield gap, could lower the GHG intensity to -0.16, -0.16, -0.11 t CO2-eq t-1 for rice, wheat, and maize, respectively, achieving carbon neutrality in 2060. This research also implies that the involvement of multiple factors through integrated policies and technological innovation is critical to achieving carbon neutrality in grain production.
Introducing Mini Clinical Evaluation Exercise for Intern Assessment in Shahid Beheshti University's Pediatrics Department
Authors: Malek Fatemeh , Nasehi Mohammadmahdi , Vahidshahi Kourosh , Jafari Narjes , Nazari Shiva , Hosseini Amirhossein , Hajipor Mahmood , Javadzadeh Mohsen
Published: July 2024

Introducing the Mini Clinical Evaluation Exercise (Mini-CEX) as a workplace-based assessment tool at Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences in Iran significantly advances medical education evaluation. By incorporating consistent mini-clinical evaluations, we aim to address the clinical competency gap by sensitizing faculty and interns and providing structured feedback. The brief, 10 to 20-minute encounters focus on evaluating crucial clinical skills, but the comprehensive nature of the Mini-CEX genuinely sets it apart. This comprehensive process allows for simultaneous evaluation of trainees' clinical skills and provides valuable feedback on their performance, enhancing the learning process and improving clinical competency. The comprehensive nature of Mini-CEX ensures a well-rounded evaluation, instilling confidence in its effectiveness. Multiple examiners for multiple cases are utilized to minimize inter-rater bias, making the Mini-CEX a comprehensive and practical assessment tool that positively impacts professional growth.
The greenhouse gas observation mission with Global Observing SATellite for Greenhouse gases and Water cycle (GOSAT-GW): Objectives, conceptual framework and scientific contributions
Authors: Tanimoto Hiroshi , Matsunaga Tsuneo , Someya Yu , Fujinawa Tamaki , Ohyama Hirofumi , Morino Isamu , Yashiro Hisashi , Sugita Takafumi , Inomata Satoshi , Müller Astrid , Saeki Tazu , Yoshida Yukio , Niwa Yosuke , Saito Makoto , Noda Hibiki , Yamashita Yousuke , Ikeda Kohei , Saigusa Nobuko , Machida Toshinobu , Frey Matthias Max , Lim Hyunkwang , Srivast Priyanka , Jin Yoshitaka , Shimizu Atsushi , Nishizawa Tomoaki , Kanaya Yugo , Sekiya Takashi , Patra Prabir , Takigawa Masayuki , Bisht Jagat , Kasai Yasko , Sato Tomohiro O.
Published: July 2024

The Japanese Global Observing SATellite for Greenhouse gases and Water cycle (GOSAT-GW) will be an Earth-observing satellite to conduct global observations of atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) simultaneously from a single platform. GOSAT-GW is the third satellite in the series of the currently operating Greenhouse gases Observing SATellite (GOSAT) and GOSAT-2. It will carry two sensors, the Total Anthropogenic and Natural emissions mapping SpectrOmeter-3 (TANSO-3), and the Advanced Microwave Scanning Radiometer 3 (AMSR3), with the latter dedicated to the observation of physical parameters related to the water cycle. TANSO-3 is a high-resolution grating spectrometer designed to measure reflected sunlight in the visible to short-wave infrared spectral ranges. It aims to retrieve the column-averaged dry-air mole fractions of CO2 and CH4 (denoted as XCO2 and XCH4, respectively), as well as the vertical column density of tropospheric NO2. The TANSO-3 sensor onboard GOSAT-GW will utilize the wavelength bands of 0.45, 0.76, and 1.61 µm for NO2, O2, and CO2 and CH4 retrievals, respectively. GOSAT-GW will fly in a sun-synchronous orbit with a local overpass time of approximately 13:30 and a 3-day ground-track repeat cycle. The TANSO-3 sensor has two observation modes in the push-broom operation: Wide Mode, which provides globally covered maps with a 10-km spatial resolution within 3 days, and Focus Mode, which provides snapshot maps over targeted areas with a high spatial resolution of 1–3 km. The objectives of the GOSAT-GW mission include (1) monitoring atmospheric global-mean concentrations of greenhouse gasses (GHGs), (2) verifying national anthropogenic GHG emissions inventories, and (3) detecting GHG emissions from large sources, such as megacities and power plants. A comprehensive validation exercise will be conducted to ensure that the sensor products’ quality meets the required precision to achieve the above objectives. With a projected operational lifetime of seven years, GOSAT-GW will provide vital space-based constraints on both anthropogenic and natural GHG emissions. These measurements will contribute significantly to climate change mitigation efforts, particularly by supporting the Global Stocktake (GST) mechanism, a key element of the Paris Agreement.
Ex vivo susceptibility to antimalarial drugs and polymorphisms in drug resistance genes of African Plasmodium falciparum, 2016-2023: a genotype-phenotype association study
Authors: Rosado Jason , Fola Abebe A. , Cojean Sandrine , Sarrasin Véronique , Coppée Romain , Zaffaroulah Rizwana , Bouzayene Azza , Cicéron Liliane , Maréchal Céline , Thaboulet Geoffrey , Moissant Camille , Wallus Léa , Houzé Ludivine , Imbert Nicolas , Crudale Rebecca , Musset Lise , Thellier Marc , Pradines Bruno , Clain Jérôme , Bailey Jeffrey A. , Houzé Sandrine , Group Investigation Study
Published: July 2024

Background: Given the altered responses to both artemisinins and lumefantrine in Eastern Africa, monitoring antimalarial drug resistance in all African countries is paramount.
Methods: We measured the susceptibility to six antimalarials using ex vivo growth inhibition assays (IC50) for a total of 805 Plasmodium falciparum isolates obtained from travelers returning to France (2016-2023), mainly from West and Central Africa. Isolates were sequenced using molecular inversion probes (MIPs) targeting fourteen drug resistance genes across the parasite genome.
Findings: Ex vivo susceptibility to several drugs has significantly decreased in 2019-2023 versus 2016-2018 parasite samples: lumefantrine (median IC50: 23·0 nM [IQR: 14·4-35·1] in 2019-2023 versus 13·9 nM [8·42-21·7] in 2016-2018, p<0·0001), monodesethylamodiaquine (35·4 [21·2-51·1] versus 20·3 nM [15·4-33·1], p<0·0001), and marginally piperaquine (20·5 [16·5-26·2] versus 18.0 [14·2-22·4] nM, p<0·0001). Only four isolates carried a validated pfkelch13 mutation. Multiple mutations in pfcrt and one in pfmdr1 (N86Y) were significantly associated with altered susceptibility to multiple drugs. The susceptibility to lumefantrine was altered by pfcrt and pfmdr1 mutations in an additive manner, with the wild-type haplotype (pfcrt K76-pfmdr1 N86) exhibiting the least susceptibility.
Interpretation: Our study on P. falciparum isolates from West and Central Africa indicates a low prevalence of molecular markers of artemisinin resistance but a significant decrease in susceptibility to the partner drugs that have been the most widely used since a decade -lumefantrine and amodiaquine. These phenotypic changes likely mark parasite adaptation to sustained drug pressure and call for intensifying the monitoring of antimalarial drug resistance in Africa.
The fate of the spin polaron in the 1D antiferromagnets
Authors: Wrzosek Piotr , Kłosiński Adam , Wang Yao , Berciu Mona , Agrapidis Cliò Efthimia , Wohlfeld Krzysztof
Published: July 2024

The stability of the spin polaron quasiparticle, well established in studies of a single hole in the 2D antiferromagnets, is investigated in the 1D antiferromagnets using a tt-JJ model. We perform an exact slave fermion transformation to the holon-magnon basis, and diagonalize numerically the resulting model in the presence of a single hole. We demonstrate that the spin polaron collapses - and the spin-charge separation takes over - due to the specific role played by the magnon-magnon interactions and the magnon hard-core constraint in the 1D tt-JJ model. Moreover, we prove that the spin polaron is stable for any strength of the magnon-magnon interaction other than the unique value found in a 1D antiferromagnet with the continuous symmetry of the spin interactions. Fine-tuning to this unique value is extremely unlikely to occur in quasi-1D antiferromagnets, therefore the spin polaron is the stable quasiparticle of realistic 1D materials. Our results lead to a new interpretation of the ARPES spectra of quasi-1D antiferromagnets in the spin polaron language.
DESENVOLVIMENTO E VALIDAÇÃO DO SOFTWARE ADSORPTION KINETICS CALCULATION (AKC) PARA CÁLCULOS DE PARÂMETROS CINÉTICOS DE ADSORÇÃO
Authors: Rodrigues Karinna , Baliza Patrícia , Castro Douglas , Leal Paulo Vitor , Pereira Douglas Henrique
Published: July 2024

DEVELOPMENT AND VALIDATION OF THE ADSORPTION KINETICS CALCULATION (AKC) SOFTWARE FOR ADSORPTION KINETIC PARAMETERS CALCULATIONS. The study of adsorption kinetics has been gaining ground, due to the fact that adsorption is an operation used in several areas, which drives the development of software for calculating kinetic parameters. In this context, the work aims to develop and validate a free software, with an intuitive interface and easy operation, for processing adsorption kinetic analysis data. The Adsorption Kinetics Calculation (AKC) software was developed in Java language, using Apache Netbeans IDE (integrated development environment) and has three kinetic equations implemented in a non-linear way: pseudofirst order, pseudo-second order and intraparticle diffusion implemented and also generates the parameters statistical coefficient of determination (R2) and ARE (average relative error). The software was successful in programming the algorithms, because the parameter values (Qe and C) were similar to the experimental values and the error values (R2 and ARE) were within those predicted by the literature. The software has the ability to plot the results and all results showed reliability in the data generated, and it can be concluded that it is validated and ready to be made available for users to use in their research.