bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PKM2 Confers Purine Metabolic Advantage and Enhances Lenvatinib Resistance in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Lei , Wang Peng , Wang Hongyang , Zhao Yan , Wang Feifei , Zhu Yanjing , Xu Mingshuang , Zhang Ya-ni , Wang Kaiting , Wang Shan , Shen Siyun , Hu Ji
Published: August 2023

Acquired resistance largely impedes the clinical efficacy of lenvatinib in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Despite the identification of several underlying drivers, the comprehensive mechanism underlying lenvatinib resistance remains largely unknown. In the present study, we establish a lenvatinib-resistant model (Len-R) in HCC patients-derived organoids to simulate the emergence of resistant tumors. We demonstrate that upregulation of PKM2 is a hallmark of Len-R and PKM2 directly contributes to lenvatinib resistance. We also identify that purine metabolic flux enriched in Len-R confers the resistance property to tumor cells in a PKM2-dependent manner. For the molecular mechanism, PKM2 interacts directly with SMAD4 and enhances its occupancy on the SMAD4 binding element (SBE) at DHFR promoter region. Consequently, upregulated DHFR enhances purine nucleotide pool to resist the effectiveness of lenvatinib on purine metabolism pathway. Clinically, upregulation of PKM2 together with DHFR is associated with lenvatinib resistance and worse outcome in HCC patients. In summary, our data suggest that PKM2-SMAD4-DHFR axis drives lenvatinib resistance in HCC by provoking de novo purine biosynthesis.
Excessive social media use during the rainstorm disaster: Exploring the effects of social media overload on anxiety
Authors: Li Kai , Li Dingxi
Published: August 2023

This paper studies the adverse effects and potential mechanisms of social media overload in a rainstorm environment. This paper takes the stressor-strain-outcome (SSO) as the theoretical basis to build a model, which mainly reflects social media overload (information overload, communication overload and social overload), social media fatigue and disaster anxiety. The partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method was used to collect 547 valid samples for the study. The final results show that social media fatigue is caused by social media overload, while disaster anxiety is formed by social media fatigue. Social media fatigue partially mediates communication overload and disaster anxiety. This study advances the literature on social media adverse effects research and SSO and provides practical implications to social media users and risk management departments.
Focused Ultrasound versus the Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure to Treat Women with Cervical High-grade Squamous Intraepithelial Lesions Under 40: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Xiao Linlin , Dong Xu , Sun Jiangchuan , Zhang Xuerui , Feng Qing , Chang Shufang
Published: August 2023

Background
To evaluate whether focused ultrasound (FUS) or the loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP) is a more feasible treatment for cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSILs) among women of reproductive age.
Methods
Retrospective case record review of patients under 40 years treated for cervical HSIL using either FUS or LEEP from 1 September 2020 to 31 May 2022. Patients were followed up for cure, recurrence, human papillomavirus (HPV) clearance, and complications within 1 year following treatment. Odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for no evidence of disease or HPV clearance associated with the treatment modalities and other covariates were estimated using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models.
Results
Among 1054 women who underwent FUS or LEEP, 225 met our selection criteria, of which 101 and 124 received FUS and LEEP, respectively. No significant difference was found in the cure rate during the 3–6-months follow-up (89.11% vs. 94.35%, P = 0.085), nor was there any such difference in the recurrence rate during the 6–12-months follow-up (2.22% vs. 1.71%, P = 0.790) between the two therapies. Both groups showed increasing cumulative HPV clearance rates over time without statistically significant differences (74.23% vs. 82.79%; P = 0.122, during the 3–6-months follow-up, and 84.95% vs. 89.17%; P = 0.359, during the 6–12-months follow-up). Furthermore, the incidence of complications caused by the two techniques was found to be similar. (5.0% vs. 5.6%, P = 0.818).
Conclusion
We found a similarity in effectiveness, safety and reliability between FUS and LEEP in treating women with HSIL under 40.
A prospective phase II randomized study of docetaxel combined with lobaplatin versus TPF regimen induction chemotherapy sequential concurrent chemoradiation for locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Mang , Wang Ziqi , Wu Weili , Jin Feng , Li Yuanyuan , Long Jinhua , Luo Xiuling , Gong Xiuyun , Chen Xiaoxiao , Liu Lina , Tang Hong , Chen Yu
Published: August 2023

Purpose: To compare the clinical effects of induction chemotherapy with TL (docetaxel plus lobaplatin) regimen with concurrent chemotherapy and TPF (docetaxel + cisplatin + 5-fluorouracil) regimen induction chemotherapy with concurrent chemotherapy of locally advanced head and neck squamous carcinoma.
Methods：128 patients with locally advanced HNSCC admitted to our department from August 2016 to April 2021 were randomly divided into trial group and control group, all using the hourly administration mode. The trial group used TL regimen induction chemotherapy combined with lobaplatin concurrent chemochemotherapy; the control group used TPF regimen induction chemotherapy and cisplatin concurrent chemotherapy. The endpoints were adverse events and survival rates at 1,3 and 5 years.
Results：Median follow-up time was 42 months (20 to 71 months).(1) adverse events: During induction chemotherapy, grade 3-4 leukocytes and neutrophils, diarrhea, 1-2 hyperbilirubinemia, nausea / vomiting, oral mucositis, fatigue, anorexia, hyponatremia were significantly lower (p<0. 05), 6%vs. 35%, 14%vs. 53%, 0% vs. 6%, 15%vs. 40%, 9%vs.56%, 0%vs.10%, 3%vs.13%, 2%vs.23%, 15%vs.74%. During chemoratreiation, the incidence of hyponatremia, hypokalaemia and grade 1-2 nausea was significantly lower in the TL group (p<0. 05), with 24%vs. 69%, 20%vs. 65%, and 24%vs. 44%, respectively.(2) There was no significant difference in the recent objective response rate (ORR) between patients with TL group and TPF group (p=0.961).(3) There was no statistical difference in 1-year, 3-year and 5-year OS between TL group and TPF group, Respectively, (71.0%vs.67.5%, p=0.573), (56.6%vs.56.9%, p=0.814), (52.5%vs.52.9%, p=0.841); 1-year PFS、3-year and 5-year PFS are: (63.4%vs. 64.0%, p=0.883), (51.1%vs.54.0%, P=0.705) and (47.3%vs.45.9%，p=0.887), None of them were significantly different. Multivariate analysis of COX regression showed that T stage (p=0.01) and surgery (p=0.046) were independent factors affecting PFS and OS, respectively. Subgroup analysis showed that the patients receiving the postoperative, N1 and N2 TL regimen tended to survive longer than the patients receiving the TPF regimen, and whether there was a significant interaction between the surgical subgroup and each subgroup.
Conclusion: For patients with locally advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinoma surgery and N stage N1 and N2, choosing TL group therapy may have more significant clinical benefits;In addition, TL regimen has advantages in reducing toxic side effects and can be considered as one of the first-line treatment options.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (No. NCT03117257).
Development of novel Nd 2 O 3 doped Ag nanocomposite for the catalytic degradation of methylene blue and biological studies
Authors: Menazea Abdelrhman A. , El-Morsy M. A.
Published: August 2023

Our study focuses on optical behavior, methylene blue (MB) dye degradation potential of pure Neodymium oxide (Nd2O3 NPs), and Silver (Ag)/Neodymium oxide (Nd2O3) nano-composite, besides demonstrating their antibacterial performance in the resolve of silver and trioxide mineral interaction with different types of bacterial species. For illustration, S.aureus, and E.Coli give a significant response with clear enlargement of inhibition zone under Ag NPs adding. S.aureus inhibition area widened from 9.3 ± 0.5 mm for pure Neodymium oxide (Nd2O3) to 16.7 ± 0.4 mm for Ag/Nd2O3 nano-composite, while Escherichia coli inhibition zones jumped from 8.8 ± 0.4 mm for Neodymium oxide to15.9 ± 0.3 mm for Ag/ Nd2O3. Additionally, generally optical behavior shows clear band-gap narrowing with merging Ag NPs, which enhances boosting electronic localization. That direct and direct transitions dropped from (6.7 to 6.1) and (5.2 to 2.9 e.V), respectively. Regarding the MB degradation, Mixed System Ag/ Nd2O3 shows more efficient Methylene blue degradation than pure Nd2O3 in that the MB concentration fell to almost half of its starting point at 150 minutes, while pure Nd2O3 reached 33% after 150 minutes. Moreover, TEM displays the studied compositions microstructures confirming the good distribution of Ag NPs (average size 9.2 nm) upon Nd2O3. The results interpretations boost usage of such composites in sensors industries, and water treatment.
A trustworthy and reliable multi-keyword search inblockchain-assisted cloud-edge storage
Authors: Liu Xingchen , Zhang Shaohui , Huang Haiping , Malekian Reza
Published: August 2023

Edge computing has low transmission delay and unites more agile interconnected devices spread acrossgeographies, which enables cloud-edge storage more suitable for distributed data sharing. This paper proposes a trustworthy and reliable multi-keyword search (TRMS) in blockchain-assisted cloud-edgestorage, where data users can choose a faster search based on edge servers or a wider search based on cloud servers. To acquire trustworthy search results and find reliable servers, the blockchain-based smart contract is introduced in our scheme, which will execute the search algorithm and update the score-based trust management model. In this way, search results and trust scores will be published and recorded on the blockchain. By checking search results, data users can judge whether the returned documents are top-k documents. Based on the trust management model, we can punish the malicious behavior of search servers, while data users can choose more reliable servers based on trust scores. To improve efficiency, we design a threshold-based depth-first search algorithm. Security analysis and extensive experiments are conducted to prove the security and efficiency of the proposed scheme.
Evaluation of Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio in dermatomyositis and analysis of their relationship with inflammation
Authors: Wang Hui , Lin Ping , Wang Yiwen
Published: August 2023

Objective.
Dermatomyositis(DM) is a chronic multi-systemic inflammatory rheumatic disorder. Malignant arrhythmia are the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in patients withDM. The Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio have been accepted as new markers for the assessment of myocardial repolarization and ventricular arrhythmogenesis. The aim of this study was to evaluate ventricular repolarization by using Tp-e interval and Tp-e/QT ratio in patients with DM, and to assess the relation with inflammation.
Methods.
This study included 281 DM patients (180 females, 101 males; mean age 52.73 ± 15.80 years) and 281 control subjects (180 females, 101 males; mean age 53.38 ± 15.72 years). QTc, Tp–e interval and Tp–e/QT ratio were measured from the 12-lead ECG. The plasma level of blood routine test, C-reactive protein (CRP), erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) were measured. These parameters were compared between groups.
Results.
No statistically significant difference was found between two groups in terms of basic characteristics. In electrocardiographic parameters analysis, QTc, Tp–e interval and Tp–e/QT ratio were significantly increased in DM patients compared the control group (441.44 ± 26.62 ms vs 422.72 ± 11.7 ms and 104.16 ± 24.34 ms vs 77.23 ± 16.25 ms and 0.27 ± 0.06 ms vs 0.20 ± 0.04 ms, all P value < 0.001). Tp–e interval and Tp–e/QT were positively correlated with NLR, CRP, and ESR (all P value < 0.001).
Conclusion.
Our study demonstrated that QTc, Tp-e interval, and Tp-e/QT ratio were increased in DM patients. Also, the Tp–e interval and Tp–e/QT ratio were positively correlated with the level of NLR, CRP, and ESR.
High levels of NfL, GFAP, TAU and UCH-L1 as potential predictor biomarkers of severity and lethality in acute COVID-19
Authors: Salvio Andreza Lemos , Fernandes Renan Amphilophio , Ferreira Helena França Alcaraz , Duarte Larissa Araujo , Gutman Elisa Gouvea , Raposo-Vedovi Jessica Vasques , Filho Carlos Henrique Ferreira Ramos , Coelho Wagner Luis da Costa Nunes Pimentel , Passos Giselle Fazzioni , Andraus Maria Emília Cosenza , Gonçalves João Paulo da Costa , Cavalcanti Marta Guimarães , Amaro Marisa Pimentel , Kader Rafael , Medronho Roberto de Andrade , Figueiredo Cláudia Pinto , Amado-Leon Luciane Almeida , Alves-Leon Soniza
Published: August 2023

Few studies showed that neurofilament light chain (NfL), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), total tubulin associated unit (TAU), and ubiquitin carboxy-terminal hydrolase-L1 (UCH-L1) may be related to neurological manifestations and severity during and after SARS-CoV-2 infection. The objective of this work was to investigate the relationship among nervous system biomarkers (NfL, TAU, GFAP and UCH-L1) and viral loads with heterogeneous outcomes in a cohort of severe COVID-19 patients admitted in Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of a university hospital. For that, 108 subjects were recruited within the first five days at ICU. In parallel, 18 mild COVID-19 patients were enrolled. Severe COVID-19 group was divided between “deceased” and “survivor”. All subjects were positive for SARS-CoV-2 detection. NfL, total TAU, GFAP and UCH-L1 quantification in plasma was performed using SIMOA SR-X platform. Of 108 severe patients (mean age 62.92 years old; male: 49.08%; female: 50.92%). Among them, thirty-six (33.33%) presented neurological manifestation and forty-one (37.96%) died. All four biomarkers – GFAP, NfL, TAU and UCH-L1 – were significantly higher among deceased patients in comparison to survivors (p < 0.05). Analyzing biochemical biomarkers, higher Ferritin Peak levels was related to death (p < 0.0001). In multivariate analysis, GFAP, NfL, TAU, UCH-L1 and Ferritin Peak were correlated to death. Regarding SARS-CoV-2 viral load, no statistical difference was observed for any group. Thus, Ferritin, NFL, GFAP, TAU and UCH-L1 are early biomarkers of severity and lethality of SARS-COV-2 infection and may be important tools for therapeutic decision-making in the acute phase of disease.
Thermocapillary Convection Of Evaporating Thin Nanofluid Layer In A Rectangular Cavity
Authors: Tao Yuequn , Liu Qiusheng , Qin Jun , Zhu Zhiqiang
Published: August 2023

Thermocapillary convection of nanofluid with evaporating phase change interface occurs in a variety of industrial processes such as micro/nano fabrication, ink-jet printing, and thin film coatings, etc. Previous studies have mostly focused on the phenomena of thermocapillary convection in pure fluids without phase change. This paper reports the first fundamental experimental work on thermocapillary flow of nanofluid thin liquid layer under effect of evaporation. This research focuses on the behavior of volatile thin nanofluid liquid layer in a rectangular test cell under the effects of horizontal temperature gradient. The buoyancy effect can be ignored inside this thin liquid layer, which is similar to the results in microgravity condition. HEE7200 and HFE7200-Al2O3 nanofluid are used as working fluid to analyze the effect of nanoparticles addition. The results indicate that the linear relationship between the thickness of the liquid layer and the duration of evaporation does not change by nanoparticles addition. HFE7200-Al2O3 nanofluid always has higher evaporation rate than its base fluid in the temperature difference range of 2.98 to 13.92℃. The critical Marangoni number for nanofluid is lower than that of pure fluid, which indicates that nanoparticles addition promotes the flow pattern transition.
Build an accurate 3D geometrical model of a soft knife profile of abrasive water jet
Authors: Chen Ming , Zhang Shijin , Wu Yuqiang , Wang Hongxia
Published: August 2023

Virtual machining simulation is becoming a must-have or an important tool currently in traditional machining process. With it, a series of trial machining can be avoided. However, the situation is different for high-energy-beam cutting. Till now, there is no accurate virtual cutting simulation tool which could simulate the physical cutting process accurately. As a soft knife, whose shape is changing dynamically, it is a big challenge to accurately define the tool shape and build an accurate 3D geometrical model as a virtual model for simulation. Aiming at abrasive water jet (AWJ) machining, a new method to build a soft knife profile based on energy distribution analysis has been explored in this paper. Through 3D point cloud data of kerf profile, a 3D model of the abrasive water jet profile has been built under different working conditions. To evaluate the effectiveness of the self-defined tool shape, the compensation strategy based on 3D AWJ profile has been carried out in the actual cutting process. The results show that 3D AWJ profile is beneficial to improve the machining accuracy. And this method can be extended to other high-energy-beam cutting tools such as laser and plasma.
Approaches for accelerating synchronization between photosensitive neurons in a coupled memory delay system
Authors: Zhou Shu , Huang Guodong , Zhu Rui , Wang Yunhai , Chai Yuan
Published: August 2023

After being stimulated by external light, photoreceptor cells in the retina produce action potentials, which are then transmitted to the visual center to create vision. Reduced vision and even blindness can result from changes in photoreceptor cells. The most cutting-edge treatment available right now is to implant electronic chips to replace the damaged photoreceptor cells. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the biophysical processes that the photoreceptor cell goes through. However, the pertinent biophysical mechanisms are still not entirely understood. This study adds phototube to the FitzHugh Nagumo (FHN) model, builds a light-dependent neuron model by using phototube's photosensitive properties, and proposes a coupled photosensitive neuron model. The effects of synaptic connection between neurons, information transmission delay, external stimulation, electromagnetic effects generated by the memristors, and noise stimulation on the synchronization of the neuronal system are all fully taken into account by the model. The outcomes of the experiment suggest that these variables regulate the speed and stability of synchronization. In an effort to develop a theoretical foundation for the treatment of visual problems, the results of the numerical simulation serve as a certain point of reference for research into the biophysical mechanisms of photosensitive neurons.
Bullying Victimization among in-School Adolescents in Sierra Leone: A cross-sectional Analysis of the 2017 Sierra Leone Global School-Based Health Survey.
Authors: Osborne Augustus , James Peter Bai , Bangura Camilla , Williams Samuel Maxwell Tom , Kangbai Jia Bainga , Lebbie Aiah
Published: August 2023

Background
Adolescent bullying victimization is recognized as a public health and mental health problem in many countries. However, data on bullying victimization's prevalence and risk factors is scarce in sub-Saharan Africa Sierra Leone. This research aimed to determine bullying victimization prevalence and its associated factors among Sierra Leonean school-going adolescents.
Methods
The Sierra Leone 2017 Global School-based Health Survey (GSHS) dataset was analyzed. The outcome variable was the respondent's self-report of bullying victimization ("How many days in the previous 30 days were you bullied?"). Descriptive, Pearson chi-square and binary logistic regression analyses were conducted. The regression analysis yielded adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and a significance level of p 0.05.
Results
Bullying victimization was prevalent among 48.7% of the in-school adolescents. Adolescents who drank alcohol [aOR = 2.48, 95% CI = 1.50–4.10], who reported feelings of loneliness [aOR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.07–2.14] and who had attempted suicide [aOR = 1.72, 95% CI = 1.03–2.87] were also more likely to be bullied. Also, school truancy [aOR = 1.53, 95% CI = 1.24–1.88] among teenagers was associated with an increased risk of being bullied.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that bullying is a widespread problem among Sierra Leonean school-aged youth, and alcohol drinking, loneliness, suicide attempt and school truancy are potential risk factors. In light of the aforementioned causes of bullying in schools, policymakers and school administrators in Sierra Leone need to develop and execute anti-bullying policies and initiatives that target the underlying risk factors of bullying among teenagers.
Imaging artifacts and quality evaluation with ultrawide-field swept-source OCTA in diabetic retinopathy
Authors: Wang Xiang-ning , Li Shuting , Cai Xuan , Li Tingting , Long Da , Wu Qiang
Published: August 2023

Background: To evaluate the prevalence and types of artifacts in ultrawide-field swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA) scans of diabetic retinopathy (DR) patients.
Methods: This study was a prospective, observational study conducted from May 2022 to October 2022. Participants comprised individuals with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR), nonproliferative diabetic retinopathy (NPDR), no diabetic retinopathy, and healthy controls. SS-OCTA imaging was performed, and a 5-scan composite with a larger field of view (23.5 mm * 17.5 mm) was captured using built-in software. Two experienced ophthalmologists analyzed the images independently, and the image quality and artifact prevalence were recorded and analyzed.
Results: The study included 70 eyes (16 with PDR, 24 with NPDR, 12 eyes of diabetic patients without DR, and 18 healthy eyes) in 70 subjects. The most prevalent artifacts were loss of signal in 63 eyes (90%) and displacement artifact and masking artifact in 43 eyes (61.4%). Patients with more severe stages of DR had higher artifact scores (P<0.05). Multivariate regression analysis indicated that DR severity was the most important factor influencing artifact scores (P<0.05).
Conclusions: In OCTA photos, various artifacts arise at different frequencies. It is crucial to qualitatively evaluate the images to ensure their quality. The results demonstrate that DR severity has a significant correlation with artifact scores.
Unraveling the Interplay Between Root Exudates, Microbiota, and Rhizosheath Formation in Pearl Millet
Authors: Alahmad Abdelrahman , Harir Mourad , Fochesato Sylvain , Tulumello Joris , Walker Alesia , Barakat Mohamed , Ndour Papa Mamadou Sitor , Schmitt-Kopplin Philippe , Cournac Laurent , Laplaze Laurent , Heulin Thierry , Achouak Wafa
Published: August 2023

Background
The rhizosheath, a cohesive soil layer firmly adhering to plant roots, plays a vital role in facilitating water and mineral uptake. In pearl millet, rhizosheath formation is genetically controlled and influenced by root exudates. Here, we investigated the impact of root exudates on the microbiota composition, interactions, and assembly processes, and rhizosheath structure in pearl millet using four distinct lines with contrasting soil aggregation abilities.
Results
Utilizing 16S rRNA gene and ITS metabarcoding for microbiota profiling, coupled with FTICR-MS metabonomic analysis of metabolite composition in distinct plant compartments and root exudates, we revealed substantial disparities in microbial diversity and interaction networks. The ß-NTI analysis highlighted bacterial rhizosphere turnover driven primarily by deterministic processes, showcasing prevalent homogeneous selection in root tissue and RAS. Conversely, fungal communities were more influenced by stochastic processes. In bulk soil assembly, a combination of deterministic and stochastic mechanisms shapes composition, with deterministic factors exerting a more pronounced role. Metabolic profiles across shoots, roots, and root-adhering soil (RAS) in different pearl millet lines mirrored their soil aggregation levels, emphasizing the impact of inherent plant traits on microbiota composition and unique metabolic profiles in root tissues and exudates. Notably, exclusive presence of antimicrobial compounds, including DIMBOA and H-DIMBOA, emerged in root exudates and roots of low aggregation lines.
Conclusions
This research underscores the pivotal influence of root exudates in shaping the root-associated microbiota composition across pearl millet lines, entwined with their soil aggregation capacities. These findings underscore the interconnectedness of root exudates and microbiota, which jointly shape rhizosheath structure, deepening insights into plant-microbe interactions and ecological processes shaping rhizosphere microbial communities. Deciphering plant-microbe interactions and their contribution to soil aggregation and microbiota dynamics holds promise for the advancement of sustainable agricultural strategies.
Analysis of the carbon effect of high-standard basic farmland based on the whole life cycle
Authors: Li Xuemei , He Ying , Fu Yanhua , Wang Yajie
Published: August 2023

Based on the whole life cycle theory, the carbon effect of three different sizes of high-standard basic farmland construction projects is measured and analysed, and the results show that (1) the carbon emissions generated during the construction of high-standard basic farmland projects and the carbon absorption capacity at the later stage are different for projects of different sizes. (2) The carbon emissions of different scales of high-standard basic farmland projects will increase during the construction stage. (3) The results of carbon effect changes in the later operation and management stage show that the high-standard basic farmland construction projects will help reduce the carbon emissions of the field ecosystem where the farmland is located and increase its carbon sink capacity after the completion of construction, and the effect is more obvious in larger projects. (4) The emission reduction and carbon sequestration capacity of the farmland after remediation are improved to different degrees, which is more conducive to the ecological development of agricultural production and ecological environmental protection in the relevant areas.
Research on Utilization Technology of Waste Heat from Dead Steam in Nuclear Power Plant
Authors: Zhang Ming , Zhang Shoujie , Ge Yunzheng
Published: August 2023

Based on the waste status of exhausted steam waste heat in nuclear power plant conventional island, schemes to generate electricity by extracting waste heat from steam are proposed. Through the design and research of power generation scheme based on waste heat of exhausted steam, design and analysis of turbine, analysis of scheme applicability, the feasibility of using exhausted steam for power generation is discussed. Final studies show that, according to the characteristics of exhausted steam, the steam power generation or Rankine cycle of organic working medium method can be used to build the waste heat utilization system.
Tumor-to-Tumor Spread: A Case Report and Literature Review of Renal Cell Carcinoma Metastasis into Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Gawlik Cassidy , Lane Jason , Horattas Mark
Published: August 2023

Tumor-to-tumor metastasis is a rare, yet important entity. Patients with a history of renal cell carcinoma (RCC) may have tumor deposits to the thyroid gland preceding or following their initial cancer diagnosis for many years. The diagnosis can be challenging, and clinicians must remain suspicious of a newly found thyroid nodule in a patient with a history of RCC. In this review, we report a case of a patient with RCC who was incidentally found to have a thyroid nodule on surveillance imaging found to be consistent with tumor-to-tumor metastasis from RCC into papillary thyroid carcinoma. It is imperative to consider this diagnosis as the thyroid is the most common site of spread, and treatment with partial or total thyroidectomy has led to improved survival.
A Novel Saliva-Based miRNA Profile to Diagnose and Predict Oral Cancer
Authors: Punyadeera Chamindie , Balakittnen Jaikrishna , Weeramange Chameera Ekanayake , Wallace Daniel F. , Duijf Pascal H.G. , Cristino Alexandre S. , Hartel Gunter , Barrero Roberto A. , Taheri Touraj , Kenny Liz , Vasani Sarju , Batstone Martin , Breik Omar
Published: August 2023

Oral cancer (OC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer. Despite the high incidence and unfavourable patient outcomes, currently, there are no biomarkers for the early detection of OC. This study aims to discover, develop, and validate a novel saliva-based microRNA signature for early diagnosis and prediction of OC risk in oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMD).
The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) miRNA sequencing data and small RNA sequencing data of saliva samples were used to discover differentially expressed miRNAs. Identified miRNAs were validated in saliva samples of OC (n=50), OPMD (n=52), and controls (n=60) using quantitative real-time PCR.
Eight differentially expressed miRNAs (miR-7-5p, miR-10b-5p, miR-182-5p, miR-215-5p, miR-431-5p, miR-486-3p, miR-3614-5p, and miR-4707-3p) were identified in the discovery phase and were validated. The efficiency of our eight-miRNA signature to discriminate OC and controls was: Area Under Curve (AUC): 0.954, sensitivity: 86%, specificity: 90%, positive predictive value (PPV): 87.8% and negative predictive value (NPV): 88.5% whereas between OC and OPMD was: AUC: 0.911, sensitivity: 90%, specificity: 82.7%, PPV: 74.2% and NPV: 89.6%. We have developed a risk probability score to predict the development of OC in OPMD patients.
We established a salivary miRNA signature that can aid in diagnosing and predicting OC, revolutionizing the management of patients with OPMD. Together, our results shed new light on the management of OC by salivary miRNAs to the clinical utility of using miRNAs derived from saliva samples.
Machine learning-based decision support system for the prognostication of neurological outcome in the successfully resuscitated OHCA patient
Authors: Lee Kwang-Sig , Park Sang-Hyun , Lee Sung Woo , Kim Su Jin
Published: August 2023

Background
This study uses machine learning and multi-center registry data for analyzing the determinants of favorable neurological outcome in the out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) patient and developing its decision support systems for various subgroups.
Methods
Data came from Korean Cardiac Arrest Research Consortium registry with 2679 OHCA patients aged 18 or more with the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). The dependent variable was favorable neurological outcome (Cerebral Performance Category scores 1–2) and 68 independent variables were included, e.g., first monitored rhythm, in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) duration and post-ROSC pH. The random forest was used for identifying major determinants of favorable neurological outcome and developing its decision support systems for various subgroups stratified by major variables.
Results
Based on random forest variable importance, major determinants of OHCA outcome were in-hospital CPR duration (0.0824), in-hospital electrocardiogram on emergency room arrival (0.0692), post-ROSC pH (0.0579), prehospital ROSC before emergency room arrival (0.0565), coronary angiography (0.0527), age (0.0415), first monitored rhythm (EMS) (0.0402), first monitored rhythm (community) (0.0401), early coronary angiography within 24 hours (0.0304) and scene arrival to CPR stop (0.0301). It was also found that patients can be divided to 6 subgroups in terms of prehospital ROSC and first monitored rhythm (EMS) and that a decision tree can be developed as a decision support system for each subgroup to find its effective cut-off points regarding in-hospital CPR duration, post-ROSC pH, age and hemoglobin.
Conclusions
We identified the major determinants of favorable neurological outcome in successfully resuscitated OHCA patients using machine learning. This study demonstrated the strengths of the random forest as an effective decision support system for each stratified subgroup (prehospital ROSC and first monitored rhythm by EMS) to find its own optimal cut-off points for major in-hospital variables (in-hospital CPR duration, post-ROSC pH, age and hemoglobin).
The heating and storage of structured acylglycerols with succinyl-linked stigmasterol residue does not affect their chemical and biological negative changes
Authors: Rudzińska Magdalena , Grygier Anna , Olejnik Anna , Kowalska Katarzyna , Kmiecik Dominik , Chojnacka Anna , Gładkowski Witold , Grudniewska Aleksandra , Przybylski Roman
Published: August 2023

Four structured acylglycerols with stigmasterol bonded by succinyl linker were investigated and their stability were analyzed. Samples were heated at 60°C which simulated storage test and at 180°C simulated a frying conditions. The degradation of synthesized compounds and formed derivatives were determined. Also their cytotoxicity and genotoxicity on normal human cells from digestive system were analyzed. Heating at 180°C resulted in greater degradation of the tested compounds than at 60°C. In all the tested samples, compounds containing oleic acid in the structure were the most stable. At 60°C this was DO2SSt, and at 180°C it was DO3SSt. The results showed that the type of fatty acid residue in the molecule is more important than its position in the glycerol structure. All analyzed DASStGs, before and after heating, did not exhibit the cytotoxic and genotoxic potential of the analyzed compounds to the small intestine and colon mucosa cells.
Unsupervised machine learning combined with 4D scanning transmission electron microscopy for bimodal nanostructural analysis
Authors: Kimoto Koji , Kikkawa Jun , Harano Koji , Cretu Ovidiu , Shibazaki Yuki , Uesugi Fumihiko
Published: August 2023

Unsupervised machine learning techniques have been combined with scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) to enable comprehensive crystal structure analysis with nanometer spatial resolution. In this study, we investigated large-scale data obtained by four-dimensional (4D) STEM using dimensionality reduction techniques such as non-negative matrix factorization (NMF) and hierarchical clustering with various optimization methods. We developed software scripts incorporating knowledge of electron diffraction and STEM imaging for data preprocessing, NMF, and hierarchical clustering. Hierarchical clustering was performed using cross-correlation instead of Euclidean distances, resulting in rotation-corrected diffractions and shift-corrected maps of major components. An experimental analysis was conducted on a high-pressure-annealed metallic glass, Zr-Cu-Al, revealing an amorphous matrix and crystalline precipitates with an average diameter of approximately 7 nm, which were challenging to detect using conventional STEM techniques. Combining 4D-STEM and optimized unsupervised machine learning enables comprehensive bimodal (i.e., spatial and reciprocal) analyses of material nanostructures.
Causal Associations of Insomnia and Postpartum Depression: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Shen Xiao , Qiao Dongyan , Wang Yixiao , Tao Yuchen , Yu Hong
Published: August 2023

Background
Postpartum depression (PPD), a prevalent social mental condition, impacts not only the mother and the newborn but also several facets of their lives. It has been suggested that insomnia is related to both the occurrence and progression of PPD. However, because to lingering confounding and bias, it is impossible to determine the cause of this connection using observational analysis. In this study, we evaluate the causal importance of insomnia on postpartum depression using Mendelian randomization (MR).
Methods
Utilizing summary data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS), a two-sample MR study was conducted. A GWAS dataset of IEU study of the United Kingdom Biobank phenotypes comprising of 462,341 people of European heritage yielded 38 single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) for insomnia. The PPD data were provided by the FinnGen project and comprised 7604 cases and 59601 controls. Inverse variance weighting (IVW) was utilized for the primary MR analysis, with weighted median and MR-Egger serving as sensitivity analyses.
Results
As a result, we found that genetically predicted insomnia was positively associated with postpartum depression. The odds ratios (OR) of PPD were 1.849 (95% (confidence interval) CI: 1.011–3.381; p = 0.046).
Conclusion
For the first time, the causative role of sleeplessness for postpartum depression has been extensively evaluated in the current two-sample MR investigation. Our findings show that insomnia and PPD are related in a causal way.
Identification of novel NLRP3 Inhibitors: a comprehensive approach using 2D-QSAR, molecular docking, molecular dynamics simulation and drug-likeness evaluation
Authors: Mouhsin Mouad , Abchir Oussama , otmani Faical Sbai El , oumghar Ayoub Ait , Oubenali Mustapha , Chtita Samir , Mbarki Mohamed , Gamouh Ahmed
Published: August 2023

This research, employing computational methodologies, aimed to discover potential inhibitors for the nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3), an intracellular sensor pivotal in inflammation and various disease processes. Despite NLRP3's critical role, there remains a research gap in the identification of novel inhibitors, making this study's objective significant. Through statistical techniques such as principal component analysis (PCA) and K-means clustering, data refinement and division was conducted in this research, leading to a more targeted set of potential inhibitors. By employing stepwise and subset multiple linear regression, a two-dimensional quantitative structure-activity relationship (2D-QSAR) model was developed, revealing six essential molecular descriptors for inhibitory activity. The interpretation of these descriptors led to the proposition of five potential compounds. One of these proposed compounds demonstrated remarkable binding affinity through molecular docking studies, marking it as a promising inhibitor of NLRP3. Further verification of this compound's potential was conducted via molecular dynamics simulations, affirming its stability and interactions within the protein-ligand system. Compliance with lipinski's rule of five indicated the drug-like properties of the proposed compounds and their potential for oral bioavailability. Consequently, these findings present a comprehensive methodology for the discovery and evaluation of novel NLRP3 inhibitors, significantly contributing to potential therapeutic advancements.
Surgical Healing Beyond the Scalpel: Exploring the Impact of Depressive Symptoms on Functional Recovery in Total Knee Arthroplasty Patients
Authors: Neelaraju Harshith , G Mahesh , Mittal Prabhat
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Numerous recent studies have explored the association between the mental health condition of patients before surgery and the outcomes of total knee arthroplasty. The principal objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of depressive symptoms among individuals undergoing total knee arthroplasty. Additionally, the study aimed to investigate the impact of pre-operative depressive symptoms as a significant and independent predictor on various health-related quality of life measures for patients undergoing knee surgery. Material and Methods: During the period spanning from August 2019 to May 2020, an orthopaedic database was established for the purpose of assessing patients' conditions before their surgeries. The data collection process occurred at three distinct intervals: prior to the surgery, as well as at the third and sixth months following the surgical procedure. In this study, we undertook an evaluation of both preoperative and postoperative depressive symptoms, as well as functional status, utilizing various self-report measures. These measures included the Becks Depression Scale, the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index, and the Knee Society Clinical Rating System. Results: Over the course of the study, the proportion of distressed patients decreased from 99% at the baseline assessment to 85% classified as normal, with 15% displaying mild distress levels during the 6-month follow-up period. Conclusions: Patients experiencing depression exhibited notable enhancements in various outcome measures. The findings from this study underscore a two-way relationship between mental health and surgical outcomes. Specifically, the surgical intervention yielded significant improvements in mental health status. Conversely, poorer preoperative mental health status emerged as a predictive factor for comparatively less favorable outcomes stemming from the surgery.
Fault analysis and research on SCR denitrification system in thermal power plants
Authors: WANG Yawen , LU Wanpeng , ZONG Shaoliang
Published: August 2023

The failure probability analysis of Selective Catalytic Reduction(SCR) denitrification system in thermal power plants has practical significance for the safe operation of denitrification system. After classifying the causes of the denitrification system failure, a fault tree analysis with the abnormal ammonia nitrogen molar ratio as the main indicator is established. The Boolean algebra operation method is used to analyze the path set of the fault indicator fault tree analysis, a total of 11 minimum cut sets and 5 minimum path sets are obtained. Analyze the combination mode and propagation path of the impact of each basic event on the top event, put forward the evaluation method of judging the system safety hazards according to the confidence degree. Based on the operation big data of a 300MW unit boiler denitrification system, the failure probability analysis of a specific fault inside the reactor was carried out, and the conclusion that the relative error between the confidence degree of the minimum cut set K7 and the confidence degree in the reliability evaluation method was only 0.694% was reached. Taking another 20 fault events, it was found that the relative error was all within 1%. The results show that the evaluation method of minimum cut set confidence is accurate and feasible.
Distribution of ℓ-regular partitions with distinct odd parts
Authors: Chiranjit Ray
Published: August 2023

Let $pod_{\ell}(n)$ be the number of $\ell$-regular partitions of $n$ with distinct odd parts. In this article, we prove that for any positive integer $k$, the set of non-negative integers $n$ for which $pod_{\ell}(n)\equiv 0 \pmod{p^{k}}$ has density one. We also exhibit several multiplicative identities for $pod_{3}(n)$, $pod_{5}(n)$ and $pod_{7}(n)$ using the Hecke eigenforms, and some results of Ono, Robins, and Wahl.
2010 Mathematics Subject Classification. Primary: 05A17, 11P83, 11F11, 11F20
Association of TNF-α, IGF-1, and IGFBP-1 levels with the severity of osteopenia in mice with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Wang Tong-Hao , Li Jian-Biao , Tian Yong-Gang , Zheng Jin-Xin , Li Xiao-Dong , Guo Shu-zhang
Published: August 2023

Backgrounds: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) exhibits a close association with osteoporosis. This work aims to assess the potential effects of NAFLD on the progression of osteopenia in animal models.
Methods: Forty-eight C57BL/6 female mice were randomly divided to wild-type (WT) group and high fat diet (HFD) group. The corresponding detections were performed after sacrifice at 16, 24 and 32 weeks, respectively .
Results: At 16 weeks, an remarkable increase of body weight and lipid aggregation in the hepatocytes of HFD group was observed compared to the WT group, while the bone structure parameters showed no significant difference. At 24 weeks, the levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in NAFLD mice were significantly increased, while the level of Osteoprotegerin (OPG) mRNA in bone tissue was decreased, and the level of receptor activator of nuclear factor Kappa-B ligand (RANKL) mRNA was increased. Meanwhile, the function of osteoclasts was increased, and the bone microstructure parameters showed significant changes. At 32 weeks, in the HFD mice, the mRNA levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), Runt-related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), and Osterix (OSX) mRNA were reduced, while the insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 (IGFBP-1) level was increased. Meanwhile, the osteoblast function was decreased, and the differences in bone structure parameters were more significant, showing obvious osteoporosis.
Conclusions: The bone loss in HFD mice is pronounced as NAFLD progresses, and the changes of the TNF-α, IL-6, IGF-1, and IGFBP-1 levels may play critical roles at the different stages of NAFLD in HFD.
A Warning Feedback Model Based on Online Learning Engagement Evaluation Under Interval-valued q-rung Orthopair Fuzzy
Authors: Wan Benting , Xie Jin , Pierre Bilivogui
Published: August 2023

When real-time detection indicates a low level of student engagement in online classrooms, selecting an appropriate time for feedback can enhance learner engagement. To address this issue, this study proposes an Interval-valued q-rung orthopair fuzzy warning feedback model based on the evaluation of online learning engagement. The designed warning feedback model utilizes a sliding window to capture the linguistic evaluation results of facial expressions, eye gaze, and limb states of online learners. By employing the developed IVq-ROFWDBM operator, as well as feature weight derivation and sample point weight derivation methods, the fuzzy comprehensive evaluation of sample points within the sliding window is conducted. When the evaluation result indicates low engagement, timely feedback is provided to the learners. The implementation of case studies demonstrates that the proposed warning feedback model can provide timely and effective feedback, avoiding the contradiction between excessive and untimely feedback. Comparative analysis results indicate that the proposed operator can obtain more accurate feedback outcomes.
Pregnancy prediction via ultrasound-detected endometrial blood for hormone replacement therapy-frozen embryo transfer: a prospective observational study
Authors: Ke Xue , Liang Xue-fei , Lin Yong-hong , Wang Fang
Published: August 2023

Background
This study aimed to assess the predictive value of endometrial blood flow branches on pregnancy outcomes after hormone replacement therapy-frozen embryo transfer (HRT-FET).
Methods
This prospective observational study involved 174 reproductive-aged women who underwent endometrial receptivity assessment in a tertiary care academic medical center in southwest China using power Doppler ultrasonography during HRT-FET. On the day of endometrial transformation and the day before embryo transfer, three-dimensional power Doppler ultrasound was performed. The endometrial blood flow branches of endometrial and subendometrial regions were compared in non-pregnant and pregnant groups at the two time points above.
Results
The endometrial blood flow branches were higher in pregnant patients than in non-pregnant patients on the day of endometrial transformation (P = 0.025) and the day before embryo transfer (P = 0.009). Changes in endometrial blood flow pattern and endometrial blood flow branches at the two time points did not differ among the pregnancy outcome samples. After adjusting for age, antral follicles, and embryos transferred, the endometrial blood flow branches on the day before embryo transfer was the independent factor influencing the chance of clinical pregnancy, with an odds ratio of 2.745 (95% confidence interval: 1.054–7.153, P = 0.039).
Conclusions
Endometrial blood flow perfusion during the peri-transplantation period of the HRT-FET cycle is a good indicator of pregnancy outcomes, suggesting that valuation of endometrial branches via power Doppler ultrasound is a simple and effective approach for achieving indicator measurements.