bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contribution of Atmospheric Circulation to Interannual Variability of Ozone Concentrations in China and Impact Mechanisms
Authors: Chen Bin , Zhao Lin , Song Zhihao , Chen Ruming , Wang Yixuan , Hu Jiashun
Published: March 2024

It’s essential to clarify the complex interactions between atmospheric circulation, climate, and ozone pollution. In this study, we observed that meteorological factors and circulation types affecting ozone concentrations in China exhibit significant regional differences. The interannual variability of atmospheric circulation strongly influence the interannual variability of ozone, with the contribution of it varying from 74% to 99% across the 10 regions we examined. Interannual fluctuations in ozone concentration are primarily caused by changes in the intensity of atmospheric circulation types. Additionally, among all circulation types, heavily polluted type of Chinese ozone accounts for 23.95%, caused by EOF1 mode (Arctic Oscillation), while EOF2 mode is identified as impact mechanisms for the clean type of Chinese ozone. However, circulation that leads to ozone pollution will increase, and it is noteworthy that Chinese ozone levels under the comprehensive influence of atmospheric circulation and meteorology are expected to increase in the foreseeable future.
Integrating Newborn Genetic Screening with Traditional Screening to Improve Newborn Screening
Authors: Men Shuai , Wang Zhiwei , Tang Xinxin , Liu Shuang , Liu Shuaimei , Zhao Yali , Wu Yulin , Wang Leilei
Published: March 2024

Background: Traditional newborn screening (NBS) for inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) and deafness has limitations due to the detection of fewer genetic disorders and variants, higher false-positive rates, and longer detection periods. This study aimed to explore the clinical validity of newborn genetic screening (NBGS) in newborns with IEM and deafness.
Methods: We retrospectively enrolled 223 cases screened for IEM by tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS)-next-generation sequencing (NGS), including 55 positive, 68 suspected positive, and 100 negative cases. Additionally, 196 cases screened for deafness were enrolled, including 96 variant-positive and 100 negative cases. Dry blood spot samples from the newborns were used for NBGS.
Results: For IEM, NBGS detected 34 positives in 55 positive cases with a sensitivity of 61.8% (34/55), whereas variants were not detected in 21 cases. Four additional positive cases were found, including one at risk of glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency and three at risk of deafness. The diagnostic time observed between the two methods exhibited a significant difference: 13 days for NBGS and 35 days for MS/MS-NGS. For deafness, the consistency in the positive results between the two methods was 96.9% (93/96). Unexpectedly, three mitochondrial gene (MT-RNR1) heterogeneous variants (m.1555A>G and m.7445A>G) were not detected by NBGS. We also detected nine variants out of 100 negative cases, including seven GJB2 (c.109G>A), one GJB3 (c.547G>A), and one MYO15A (c.10250_10252delCCT), with a 9% (9/100) detection rate by NBGS.
Conclusion: As a novel screening method for newborns, NBGS can detect more gene variants, reduce the false-positive rate, and shorten the diagnostic cycle. Our research provides a foundation for the clinical application of NBGS.
Bioaugmentation effect and mechanism of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) degradation using Arthrobacter sp. SZ-3 and Pseudomonas putida B6-2 under high Tween80 stress
Authors: zhang Mingle , He Zhimin , Xu XiaoYi , Ji Fan , Wang Bin
Published: March 2024

This study examines investigates the use of Tween80 as a typical solubilizer in the remediation of PAH-contaminated soil and explores the advantages of combined elution-microbial degradation in overcoming the inhibitory effect of high-concentration eluents. A microbial synergistic strategy system was proposed using Arthrobacter sp. SZ-3 and Pseudomonas putida B6-2 as the key bacteria in the presence of Tween80. The results indicate that in systems where Tween80 is present, the SZ-3 strain has a strong ability to degrade three kinds of PAH compounds. The B6-2 strain demonstrates multiple pathways for PAH degradation. Mixed bacteria exhibit degradation rates 60.7% higher than single bacteria at different concentrations of Tween80. Additionally, the average growth rates of mixed bacteria increased by 1.17–1.37 times, which is consistent with the changes in functional group. The detection results of protein activity within each degradation system corresponded with the growth quantity and the cyclic variation characteristics of ETS enzyme activity. Notably, the ETS of mixed bacteria was 150% higher than that of single bacteria. At a Tween80 concentration of 500 mg/L, the degradation rates of PAHs (Phe, Flu, Pyr) by mixed bacteria were 5.7%-20.7%, 8.5%-22.0%, 6.6%-22.2% higher than those of single bacteria. It was observed that the catechol 1,2-dioxygenase activity of mixed bacteria with was 2.3 times higher than of the single bacteria under the condition of 500 mg/L Tween80. The presence of Tween80 did not affect the PAH degradation pathways, but it did significantly impact the amount and duration of accumulation of the characteristic intermediate product.
Evaluating the Impact of a Trial of Labor After Cesarean Section on Labor Duration: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Ooba Hikaru , Maki Jota , Masuyama Hisashi
Published: March 2024

Introduction:
Repeat cesarean section (C-section) is associated with an increased risk of maternal complications and a reduction in quality of life (QOL). Trial of Labor After C-section (TOLAC) may reduce the recurrence of cesarean deliveries. Uterine rupture, a complication of TOLAC, is a serious obstetric complication, with prolonged labor duration suggested as a risk factor. However, there are no reports examining labor duration in women with cesarean scars, considering the termination of labor through cesarean section and selection bias. Our study aimed to investigate the impact of cesarean scars on the labor duration of TOLAC patients, considering these factors.
Methods:
From January 1, 2012, to December 31, 2021, we investigated a cohort of 2,964 individuals who attempted vaginal delivery at a single medical center, categorizing them into TOLAC and non-TOLAC groups. Propensity scores were generated based on factors that could influence labor duration, and survival analysis was conducted after applying Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighting (IPTW). We evaluated the robustness of the results by propensity score matching and bootstrapping as a sensitivity analysis.
Results:
Results from Cox proportional hazards regression analysis indicated that the unadjusted hazard ratio was 0.83 (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.70-0.98, p=0.027), whereas the IPTW-adjusted hazard ratio was 0.98 (95% CI: 0.74-1.30, p=0.91).
Conclusion:
Factors such as maternal physique and fetal characteristics influence labor duration, with the impact of cesarean scars being limited. Our findings were consistent with previous studies and provided supportive evidence.
Efficacy of the Intensive Care Unit Diary: A Mixed-Method Study Protocol
Authors: Muñoz-Rey Pilar , Romero-García Marta , Anglès-Sabaté Isabel , Ausió-Dot Albert , Alonso-Fernández Sergio , Alcalá-Jiménez Isidro , Huertas-Zurriaga Ariadna , Tur-Rubio Carlos , Delgado-Hito Pilar
Published: March 2024

Background: Multiple international studies report on the use of diaries in intensive care units. Some highlight the benefits for patients, others focus on family members, and few consider the vision of professionals. Most use quantitative methods. Limitations such as small sample sizes and short follow-up periods affect many studies. Therefore, further research with larger samples and a longer follow-up period, employing a mixed-methods approach is suggested. This protocol was designed to evaluate the efficacy of the use of intensive care unit diaries for patients and families, as well as to understand professionals’ experiences and satisfaction with intensive care unit diaries.
Method/Design: Mixed-method study: a quantitative phase followed by a qualitative phase.
Phase 1: Randomised, parallel, non-blinded, multicentre clinical trial, with an experimental group (diary) and a control group (no diary), to identify the efficacy of the diary in improving quality of life and preventing post-traumatic stress and anxiety/depression in patients and family. Measurement tools include the SF-36 Health Questionnaire, EIE-R scale, and HADS scale, administered 2-, 6- and 12-months post-discharge. Each group comprises 120 cases. Data analysis will use IBM-SPSS (v.24) To evaluate the satisfaction of professionals a survey will be carried out.
Phase 2: Hermeneutic phenomenological study with theoretical sampling. Size of 38-72 patients/family members until theoretical data saturation is reached. Data collection from in-depth interviews and field diary 6 months after discharge. Phenomenological analysis according to Smith. Guba and Lincoln’s rigour criteria.
Discussion: This research will provide knowledge regarding the benefits and limitations of the use of diaries, based on quantitative and qualitative data, and will promote reflection on their implementation, considering patients, family, and professionals. This study will provide new knowledge about the satisfaction of professionals with diary implementation. This multicentre study will provide valuable information on the contribution of diaries in clinical practice and their impact on patient recovery and the experiences of families and professionals. If the efficacy of the diary is confirmed, it will mark a significant advancement in the care of critically ill patients, contributing to the expansion of their use.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05288140. First Published: March 21, 2022.
Psychosocial factors and patient and healthcare delays in large (class T3–T4) oral, oropharyngeal, and laryngeal carcinomas
Authors: Atula Markus , Atula Timo , Aro Katri , Irjala Heikki , Halme Elina , Jouppila-Mättö Anna , Koivunen Petri , Wilkman Tommy , Mäkitie Antti , Elovainio Marko , Pulkki-Råback Laura
Published: March 2024

Background: Psychosocial factors and socioeconomic status have been associated with incidence, survival, and quality of life among patients with head and neck cancer. We investigated the association between different psychosocial factors, socioeconomic status, and patient delays in T3–T4 oral, oropharyngeal, and laryngeal cancer.
Patients and Methods: We conducted a nationwide prospective questionnaire-based study (n = 203) over a 3-year period.
Results: We found no association between psychosocial factors (depression, social isolation, loneliness, and cynical hostility) and patient delay. Depression was three times more common among head and neck cancer patients compared with the general Finnish population. Head and neck cancer patients had lower educational levels and employment status, and were more often current smokers and heavy drinkers.
Conclusions: Although we found no association between patient delay and psychosocial factors, patients diagnosed with a large head and neck cancer appeared to have a lower socioeconomic status and higher risk for developing depression, which should be considered in clinical practice.
The Impact of Maternal Anxiety on Uterine, Umbilical Arteries Doppler Indices and Fetal growth during the second half of Ossimi pregnant sheep
Authors: Elmetwally Mohammed A. , Adlan Fatma , Samy Alaa , Rezk Shaymaa , Lasheen Samah , Hendam Basma , Orabi Heba , Shalapy Sara , Mostagir Amira
Published: March 2024

The objective of this prospective study was to investigate whether Doppler- and B-mode sonography could be used to assess a possible influence of maternal temperament on fetal and pregnancy-related endpoints in sheep during pregnancy. On the basis of behavioral testing related to an anxiety-eliciting stimulus (arena test), 20 sheep were divided into two groups, namely more reactive/anxious (MR: 12 sheep) and less reactive/anxious (LR: 8 sheep). After mating, several endpoints were assessed by transrectal and/or transabdominal ultrasonography every 2 weeks (wk) from breeding to wk 20 of pregnancy and blood samples were taken to evaluate the expression of angiogenic proteins at parturition. Gestational length, fetal weight and fetal numbers were also investigated. The resistance index (RI), as well as the pulsatility index (PI) of the uterine (UtA) and the fetal umbilical arteries (UMA), were measured with non-invasive Doppler sonography. Further parameters were measured with B-mode ultrasonography: diameter of amniotic vesicles (AVD; only wk 2–8), umbilicus (UMD), fetal chest (FCHD), and metacarpal length (MCL). The UtA-PI was significantly higher in MR compared to LR ewes at pregnancy between 6–12 wks (P > 0.01), while a tendency was recognized at wk 14 (P = 0.054). The same was true for UtA-RI during the first 8 wk of pregnancy (P < 0.03) when MR and LR animals were compared. Similarly, UMA-RI was higher in fetuses of MR than LR ewes at wk 14 (P < 0.0003) and 20 (P < 0.02) of pregnancy. The differences in UMA-PI reached significance at wk 6, 8, 10, and 20 (P < 0.05–0.003). Furthermore, AVD (P < 0.03, wk 2–8), FCHD (P < 0.002, wk 8–18) as well as the UMD (P < 0.054, wk 8–18) were higher in LR than MR pregnant ewes. A significant variation in the gestational length, fetal weight and fetal numbers were recorded. The expression of VEGF, NOS3 and VEGFR1 was increased in the less reactive sheep (P < 0.001). In conclusion, using Doppler- and B-mode sonography, the effects of maternal temperament on fetal growth, as well as maternal and umbilical blood flow in sheep and goats could be successfully demonstrated. The maternal anxiety affects the expression of mRNAs for VEGF, NOS3 and HIF 1α at time of parturition.
Molecular mechanism of Saikosaponin-d in the treatment of gastric cancer based on network pharmacology and in vitro experimental verification
Authors: Ning Na , Li Xiangyang , Nan Yi , Chen Guoqing , Huang Shicong , Du Yuhua , Gu Qian , Li Weiqiang , Yuan Ling
Published: March 2024

Aim
Network pharmacology combined with cellular experiments to research the mechanism of action of Saikosaponin-d in the treatment of gastric cancer.
Methods
Drug target genes were obtained from the PubChem database and the Swiss Target Prediction database. Additionally, target genes for gastric cancer were obtained from the GEO database and the Gene Cards database. The core targets were then identified and further analyzed through Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), and GESA enrichment. The clinical relevance of the core targets was assessed using the GEPIA database. Molecular docking of drug monomers and core target proteins was performed using Auto Duck Tools and Pymol software. Finally, in vitro cellular experiments including cell viability, apoptosis, cell scratch, Transwell invasion, Transwell migration, qRT-PCR, and Western blot were conducted to verify these findings of network pharmacology.
Results
The network pharmacology analysis predicted that the drug monomers interacted with 54 disease targets. Based on clinical relevance analysis, six core targets were selected: VEGFA, IL2, CASP3, BCL2L1, MMP2, and MMP1. Molecular docking results showed binding activity between the Saikosaponin-d monomer and these core targets.
Conclusion
Saikosaponin-d could inhibit gastric cancer cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, and inhibit cell migration and invasion.
Improved Human Identification by Multi-biometric Image Sensor Integration With a Deep Learning Approach
Authors: Amin Parag , D Ganesh , Gantra Amit , Singhal Priyank
Published: March 2024

Biometric identification technology has become a common part of daily life due to the global demand for information security and security legislation. Due to its capacity to circumvent several fundamental drawbacks of unimodal biometric systems, multimodal biometrics technology has attracted attention and grown in popularity in this respect. This research presents a novel multimodal biometric person identification system based on a VGG19 with softmax classifier (VGG19-SC) for iris and facial biometrics. The system's architecture is built on VGG19-SC, which extracts features from and categorizes images. The system was created by combining the iris and face portions of two VGG19-SC models. VGG-19 was employed to construct the well-known pertained model. A few methods, including picture augmentation and dropout techniques, were used to prevent overfitting. The VGG19-SC models were fused using feature-level and score-level fusion methods to investigate the effects of these fusion methods on recognition performance. The results demonstrated that three biometric features were more effective than two and one biometric traits in biometric identification systems. The findings similarly demonstrated the suggested method easily surpassed other cutting-edge approaches by obtaining an accuracy of 99.39% in a multi-biometric verification system.
Intranasal Curcumin ameliorates Silica induced Inflammation and Pulmonary Fibrosis via NRF-2/Keap-1 pathway and autophagy in mice model
Authors: Kumari Sneha , Singh Payal , Dash D , Singh Rashmi
Published: March 2024

Silicosis, one of the most serious lung fibrotic illnesses in the world is due to repeated silica dust exposures. Aberrant tissue repair and persistent inflammation in silicosis is due to occupational exposures to silica particles but specific molecular mechanism has not yet been identified. Present study was undertaken to investigate impact of silica exposures leading to lung damage and fibrosis and plausible therapeutic interventions. Here, mice model of silicosis was established where silica induced oxidative lung damage and fibrotic response has been thoroughly explored and an anti-inflammatory molecule, curcumin, derived from Curcuma longa has been for discovered for its anti-oxidant potential. In present study, curcumin was administered every alternate day for 35 days an hour prior to silica exposure and molecular mechanism of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative potential of curcumin was examined. Silica induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) were repressed by curcumin thereby autophagy was stimulated and deposition of damaged mitochondria were suppressed. Reduced oxidative stress resulted in reduced number of inflammatory cells, mainly neutrophils and macrophages. Curcumin treatment has reduced inflammation and the aberrant collagen repair which followed its protective benefits in mice. Curcumin also inhibited oxidants by boosting antioxidant enzyme activities by triggering Nrf2-Keap1 pathway. Autophagy markers like, PINK1, PARKIN, Cyt-c, P62/SQSTM levels were elevated in silicosis group which were significantly lowered after curcumin and dexamethasone treatment. Higher numbers of damaged mitochondria after silica inhalations were also reduced in curcumin administered groups. Curcumin initiated autophagy resulted in reduced silica-induced mitochondria-dependent apoptosis which may suggest molecular mechanism based therapeutic implications for silicosis.
Impact of S100A4 Deletion on the Macrophage Metabolome and Differentiation
Authors: Jiao Xiyao , Cui Jingwen , Li Yuhang , Li Xiangyun , Chu Zhili , Wu Xinglong
Published: March 2024

Alterations in the macrophage metabolome greatly influence macrophage differentiation, subsequently impacting the development of diverse clinical diseases. Although S100A4 is a crucial factor in conditioned macrophage movement and inflammatory cell recruitment, its metabolism-mediated mechanism in regulating macrophage differentiation remains unclear. Here, we generated mice with a macrophage-specific S100A4 deletion by crossing C57BL/6J-S100a4 em1(flox)Cya mice with Lyz2-cre mice. Subsequently, macrophages were isolated from these mice, and heterozygous mouse macrophages served as controls for metabolomic analysis. The S100A4 deletion significantly influenced metabolic pathways, such as those involving lysophosphatidylserine, ceramide, and L-glutamate, which are implicated in modulating macrophage differentiation. This work elucidates the metabolic intricacies associated with the S100A4-mediated regulation of macrophage differentiation and provides a valuable reference for future investigations in this field.
Analysis of risk factors for the early death of lymphocyte subsets in adult patients with secondary hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Ling Xiaosui , Chen Heng , Xu tangxing , Deng Aigen , zhang zhi , Sun Xianyi
Published: March 2024

Background
Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is an excess inflammatory response syndrome caused by genetic or acquired immune dysregulation.
Method
We examined the expression levels of lymphocyte subsets in the peripheral blood of 96 patients with sHLH.
Result
This study found that CD3-CD16 + CD56 + cells < 2% and CD3 + cells < 50% were important risk factors for early mortality in sHLH patients. Furthermore, age ≥ 55 years and Hemoglobin(HGB)< 70g/L were also found to be risk factors for early mortality in sHLH patients, which is consistent with many previous studies and may indicate that our results are credible.
Conclusion
Taken together, our results suggest that the reduction of CD3-CD16 + CD56 + cells and CD3 + cells are important risk factors for early mortality in patients with sHLH. This may provide new clues for the clinical prognosis of patients with sHLH.
Comparative Study on MHD Flow of Casson Fluid Due to Stretching Surface in Suspension of Dust and CNT and Graphene Nanoparticles: Entropy Generation
Authors: Ramanuja Mani
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the effects of the MHD flow via an exponentially extending surface of a Casson hybrid nanofluid made of graphene and carbon nanotubes. The directions of flow were subjected to the standard Lorentz force. With basic Casson nanofluid, we took CNTs and graphene into consideration. The velocity, temperature and concentration profiles are simulated using a mathematical model established under the flow suppositions by utilizing boundary exponentially layer surface approximations in equations using partial differentials (PDEs). The lie symmetry method was used to achieve a suitable performance of mathematical transformations. After applying the necessary transformations, partial differential equations (PDEs) were transformed into ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The dimensionless system was explained using a numerical with 4th-order Runge–Kutta method called bvp4c. Both tabular and depicted graphical representations were used to show the influence of relevant flow parameters on skin friction, Nusselt number, velocity, temperature, and concentration distributions. Furthermore, The Casson fluid parameter, magnetic field strength, Brownian motion, random motion, volume fraction, and radiation parameter cause the temperature profiles to rise at the surface can be observed. Also, increasing with Brownian motion, thermophoretic parameter, and radiation parameter increases the primary velocity while decreasing with Casson fluid parameter and magnetic field parameter. Furthermore,insight into system irreversibility and demonstrates actual system transit from a low entropy configuration to a high entropy configuration.
Exosome Therapy on Cisplatin-Induced Testicular Tissue Toxicity
Authors: YILDIZ Halime TOZAK , KALKAN Kübra Tuğçe , BAYDİLLİ Numan , GÖNEN Zeynep Burçin , MAT Özge CENGİZ , OKUR Eda , ÖNDER Gözde Özge , Prof Arzu YAY
Published: March 2024

Backround:
Cisplatin is a significant chemotherapy drug that has been used for different cancer types. The infertility and gonadotoxicity caused by metabolites resulting from cisplatin metabolism are two of the most serious side effects of cisplatin. Testicular dysfunction is generally caused by oxidative stress and autophagy that are induced by cisplatin. This study focused on potential exosomes' regenerative, antioxidant, and autophagy-regulating properties might be used to minimize testicular damage resulting from cisplatin.
Methods
For cisplatin toxicity, one dose of 7.5mg/kg was injected on first day. Exosom (80x106/100µl) was injected single dose on sixth day. To examine potential therapeutic effects of the exosome, tissue samples were taken on eighth day. For examination of testicular morphology, tissues were stained with Hematoxylin&Eosin. Sperm motility and number were examined. Autophagy markers and SF-1,StAR expressions, were evaluated immunohistochemistry. Oxidative stress, inhibin and testosterone levels were analysed.
Results
Cisplatin-induced damage caused to decrease in germinal epithelium, edema in interstitial areas, and degeneration in seminiferous tubules. Sperm motility and quality decreased. When compared to control groups, there was an increase in the expression of Beclin-1, p62, LC3-2, SF-1, and StAR. MDA activity increased,GSH-PX, SOD, and CAT activity decreased. Testosterone and inhibin levels decreased in serum. Tissue morphology was returned to normal, autophagy marker upregulation decreased, and SF-1 and StAR expressions increased in the group that received exosome, following cisplatin. There was a decrease in oxidative stress and increase in hormone levels
Conclusion
These findings suggest that the exosome may offer a promising approach to minimizing Cis-induced reproductive toxicity and tissue damage by reducing autophagy and improving oxidative stress.
RETRACTED: Assessment of the mechanical and thermal properties of local building materials stabilized by the synthesis of kaolin geopolymers and alkaline solution
Authors: CHAR Mohamed , TILIOUA Amine
Published: March 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Bibliometric and Visual Analysis of Fibrotic Pulmonary Sarcoidosis
Authors: WEI NAMIN , Fang Xinhua , Zhao Xuelong , Zeng Fengping , Yu Chenqian , Huyen Nguyen Thi Thanh , Li Feiyu , Chen Hongmei , Zhai Huaqiang
Published: March 2024

Background
Fibrotic pulmonary sarcoidosis (FPS) has a high mortality rate, but its pathogenesis is not clear and effective treatments are lackings. In recent years, numerous literature reviews have been published from various perspectives on FPS. However, there is still a lack of visual analysis and summary of its research status, hotspots, and development trends. Therefore, to fill this knowledge gap, this study conducted a bibliometric and visual analysis of the published literature on FPS.
Methods
A total of 962 relevant publications were extracted from the Web of Science Core Collection. CiteSpace was used to conduct a bibliometric analysis and draw knowledge maps from five dimensions: publication years and document types, scientific collaboration networks (authors, countries/territories and institutions), journals, references and keywords.
Results
Current FPS research exhibits steady growth, capturing widespread attention. Noteworthy authors include Bargagli E, Baughman RP, Valeyre D, Raghu G, and Hunninghake GW. USA, Italy, Germany, England, and Netherlands demonstrate relatively mature research in this field. Three influential research institutions, namely Royal Brompton Hospital (England), Imperial College London (England) and University of California System (USA), stand out in this field. Important journals include American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, European Respiratory Journal, Chest, Thorax and Respiratory Medicine. These journals primarily focus on the evaluation, clinical and immunological characteristics, and treatment of FPS. Current hot research topics mainly include FPS-relevant diseases (interstitial lung disease, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary fibrosis), complications (pulmonary hypertension, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and lung cancer), commonly used treatments (bronchoalveolar lavage), and biomarkers (YKL-40). Diagnosis, treatment (clinical trial drug studies), cardiac sarcoidosis, and quality of life are currently in an explosive stage and will be the focus of future research.
Conclusion
This research provides useful information for the study of FPS, including potential collaborators, research status of various countries and institutions, distribution and knowledge structure of journals, as well as research status and hotspots, providing a reference for future broader and deeper research.
Patterns of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder and Posttraumatic Growth Among Employees After the Tianjin Explosion in China: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: Huang Yijin , Chen Yaru , Zhu Zhengqing , Lv Meixuan , Liu Zhengkui
Published: March 2024

Background: Posttraumatic stress disorder(PTSD) and posttraumatic growth (PTG) often coexist in survivors of traumatic events. In this study, latent profile analysis was used to investigate the coocurrence patterns of PTSD and PTG among a sample of employees who survived an explosion in the Tianjin Binhai New Area on August 12, 2015. We aimed to determine whether profiles could be affected by specific predictors.
Method: Latent profile analysis was used to examine cooccurrence patterns of self-reported PTSD and PTG in a sample of 2,456 employees who survived the Tianjin Binhai New Area explosion.
Results: Four distinct profiles were identified mild PTSD/mild PTG group, mild PTSD/high PTG group, mild PTSD/medium PTG group, high PTSD/medium PTG group. The classification was predicted by several variables, such as depression, resilience and issues related to trauma exposure.
Conclusion: Our findings contribute to knowledge about the cooccurrence patterns of PTSD and PTG and provide guidance for future clinical practice to identify individuals at high risk for effective interventions.
The Impact of Relaxing the Requirements for Dyspeptic Symptom Onset Frequency and Duration in Rome IV Criteria on the Diagnosis and Symptom Pattern of Functional Dyspepsia
Authors: Wang Jinsheng , Wu Junhao , Hou Xiaohua , Zhang Lei
Published: March 2024

Background
The Rome IV criteria for functional dyspepsia (FD) has strict requirements for symptom frequency and onset duration, making it challenging to identify patients with broadly defined FD in clinical practice.
Aims
This study aimed to investigate the impact of relaxing the Rome IV criteria on the diagnosis and symptom pattern of FD.
Methods
A cross-sectional, multi-center study was conducted involving 2935 consecutive broadly defined FD patients with no positive findings on upper GI endoscopy and routine examinations. Questionnaires were used to collect demographic and upper gastrointestinal symptom data. Symptom pattern was compared between Rome IV criteria defined FD patients and those defined by relaxed Rome IV criteria.
Results
Only 22.2% of broadly defined FD patients rigorously fulfilled Rome IV criteria. No significant difference was found for all symptoms mentioned in this study, as well as dyspeptic symptom severity and onset frequency, between broadly defined FD who fulfilled Rome IV criteria but had a duration of 3–6 months and Rome IV criteria defined FD. Broadly defined Postprandial Distress Syndrome (PDS) patients who fulfilled the Rome IV criteria but had a symptom frequency of 1–2 days per week had significantly lower symptom severity, but similar postprandial symptom characteristics compared to those defined by the Rome IV criteria.
Conclusion
A symptom duration criterion of 3 months may be sufficient for diagnosing FD in China. Reducing the symptom onset frequency to no less than 1 day per week in the Rome IV criteria for PDS does not affect its postprandial symptom characteristics.
Transforming Driver Management in Enterprises in the Name of Digitization: A Flutter- Powered Approach
Authors: Özkurt Cem
Published: March 2024

This study addresses the inefficiencies inherent in traditional driver management methods, shedding light on the specific challenges that impede operational effectiveness. The identified problems include cumbersome paper-based processes and outdated systems. To comprehensively tackle these issues, the research introduces specific research questions and a methodology, emphasizing the need for a digital transformation in driver management. Delving deeper into the intricacies of the subject, this study not only articulates the prevalent challenges of conventional methods but also formulates specific research questions to guide the investigation. The methodology employed involves a meticulous examination of operational processes and constraints, highlighting potential threats to validity and ensuring a robust analysis. By doing so, the research aims to provide a nuanced understanding of the problems and opportunities in driver management. As a part of the transformative shift advocated in this study, the integration of Flutter is introduced as a pivotal solution. Beyond a mere technological upgrade, Flutter is positioned as a paradigm shift, addressing identified threats to validity and offering a holistic and efficient solution to the intricate demands of driver management processes. The study concludes by emphasizing the multifaceted benefits of this digital transformation, ranging from enhanced workflow optimization to the establishment of a driver-centric platform. Also the application exhibited substantial improvements in key operational areas, resulting in significant percentages of enhancement. Unnecessary fuel consumption saw a notable reduction of approximately 15%, indicating a substantial improvement in fuel efficiency. The optimization features of the application contributed to a 20% decrease in irregular employee arrival times, highlighting its efficacy in improving scheduling and punctuality.
Immune transcriptomic profile in adult female pigs: dominance status has more influence than environmental enrichment
Authors: Lopes Mariana Mescouto , Clouard Caroline , Vincent Annie , Thomas Françoise , Hérault Frédéric , Louveau Isabelle , Resmond Rémi , Jammes Hélène , Merlot Elodie
Published: March 2024

Background
Assessing animals’ affective states is crucial for evaluating the welfare of farm animals, yet practical tools are lacking. In this study, we tested whether the peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) transcriptome can be used to show variations in sows’ affective state. To do this, we compared animals whose emotional states were assumed to differ due to their lives in more or less enriched environments and to their different dominance statuses. Sows (n = 71) were housed in conventional (C) or enriched (E) environments from gestation day 0 (G0) until three weeks before farrowing (G105), after which they were transferred to conventional maternity rooms. On G98, saliva and hair were collected for cortisol measurement. From G99 to G103, behavioral analyses were conducted, and dominance hierarchy was evaluated. Blood samples were collected for PBMC transcriptome analysis on G98 and on lactation day 12 (L12).
Results
Both environmental enrichment (EE) and dominance status influenced cortisol and variables related to social and exploratory behavior, indicating an influence on sows’ affective states. While EE affected only a few genes (31 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in G98, dominance status significantly impacted the PBMC transcriptome (449 DEGs in G98). Compared with subordinate sows (SUB), dominant (DOM) sows exhibited upregulated inflammatory genes, downregulated B-cell activation, and upregulated plasma cell function. In groups of sows, dominance status is partly related to sow parity, and we compared the effect of dominance with that of parity. Some similar DEGs emerged when comparing different parity animals (high-parity (HP) vs. low-parity (LP); 542 DEGs on G98, 180 in common with dominance-impacted genes), indicating that some effects of dominance on the transcriptome were in fact more due to age or reproductive cycles than to dominance itself. EE and dominance effects appeared relatively short-term, as DEG numbers decreased on L12 (four DEGs for E vs. C, 25 for DOM vs. SUB).
Conclusions
Both EE and dominance status influenced sows’ affective states; however, dominance status exerted a more pronounced influence on sows’ PBMC transcriptome than did environmental enrichment. In particular, dominance status modulated genes associated with B cells and plasma cell functions.
Artificial Neural Networks in the Perception of Genetic Differentiation Caused by Migration
Authors: Pigaiani Maria Eduarda Farias , Oliveira Marciane Silva , Vidon Letícia Rodrigues , Oliveira Alessandro Marques , Cruz Cosme Damião
Published: March 2024

Understanding genetic diversity is exceptionally important in order to ensure variability and viability among populations of the same species. Genetic diversity among populations is a consequence of different evolutionary mechanisms that act on them, resulting in different genotypic and allelic frequencies between generations and their future generations; among the different evolutionary mechanisms is migration or gene flow. Self-Organizing Maps (SOM) is an interesting tool to organize and map populations, in addition to highlighting the effects of genetic diversity caused by different evolutionary mechanisms, including migration. The objective of this work was to verify the effects of migration along the generations, analyzing them according to the Conventional Techniques of Biostatistics - Nei, Hedrick and Tocher Cluster Statistics - and, later, to analyze if the self-organizing maps are able to map the effects caused by it. This way, base populations were generated in Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium with 1000 individuals each, 100 codominant diallelic loci, and allelic frequencies equal to p = q = 0.50, which were used to simulate the effects of migration. The simulation is justified because it allows for the control of the generated effects. The SOM were able of capturing the diversity patterns generated for different quantities of migrants over different generations in various replicates. We concluded that SOMs are sensitive to detecting genetic variability and provide additional information on population organization.
Lithium Perborate-Based Composite Polymer Electrolytes for All-Solid-State Lithium-Ion Batteries: Performance Enhancement and Stability
Authors: Pandurangan Ilakkiya , Sathiasivan Kiruthika , Aarimuthu Gayathri , Kannadasan Mahalakshmi , Balakrishnan Muthukumaran
Published: March 2024

A rapid rise in the development of portable electronic devices and telecommunication technologies has led to an ever-growing demand for high safety, large energy density and cost effective systems for storing energy. Rechargeable all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries are extremely productive without compromising performance. In this study, Garnet-type Li7La3Zr2O12 (LLZO), filler was prepared employing the sol-gel method. That follows, the high-performance poly(ethylene oxide)/ Lithium perborate (LiBO3)/LLZO composite solid polymer electrolyte was fabricated using a simple solution-casting technique. The morphology and composition of the prepared CSPE (composite solid polymer electrolyte) (PEO-LiBO3-LLZO) were investigated using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy in addition to other physicochemical characterization techniques. The composite solid polymer electrolyte exhibits a maximum ionic conductivity of 2.4 x 10− 4 S cm− 1 with LLZO filler and a wide electrochemical window of 4.6 V vs. Li+/Li. The prepared electrolyte reveal good electrochemical efficiencies with elevated discharge capacity of 73.2 mAhg− 1 and excellent faradaic efficiency of 98% since 100 cycles. Based on these results, the prepared composite solid polymer electrolyte furnish an auspicious methodology for the advancement of high-performing rechargeable all-solid-state lithium-ion batteries.
Enhancement of MAPb0.75Sn0.25I3 solar cell efficiency by doping HTL and ETL layers
Authors: Abdallaoui Doua , Meftah Afak , Sengouga Nouredine , Abdallaoui Maroua , Labed Madani
Published: March 2024

Numerical simulation of a lead-tin perovskite (MAPb0.75Sn0.25I3) solar cell was conducted. The simulation was validated against measurements (Li et al. J Mater Chem C Mater 5 (2017) 2360–2367. https://doi.org/10.1039/C6TC05325D) and the photovoltaic conversion efficiency (PCE) closely matched the measured value, 12.19 ≈ 12.08%. Subsequently, optimization strategies to enhance the SC performance were pursued. Doping hole and electron transport layers (HTL, ETL) with various elements as well as adjusting HTL, ETL, and perovskite thicknesses have improved PCE and carriers’ extraction. These optimizations led to an enhancement in PCE to 12.93%. Further improvements using Copper oxide (Cu2O) as HTL yielded a PCE of 13.38%. Doping Cu2O with Tellurium pushed PCE to 14.73%. Copper doping of Zinc Oxide outperformed other ETLs and increased PCE to 15.33%. Overall, these findings represent significant strides in advancing the design of perovskite solar cells, providing valuable insights for further enhancements in photovoltaic conversion efficiency.
BISMUTH SUBSALICYLATE REVERSES HIGH FAT DIET-INDUCED INCREASE IN PORTAL VENOUS FLOW
Authors: Birg Aleksandr , Coffman Cristina , Rumsey Kellin , Lin Henry , Kanagy Nancy
Published: March 2024

In animal studies, a high-fat diet (HFD) is associated with fatty liver disease and vascular complications characterized by hyperdynamic circulation. The underlying mechanism for these hemodynamic changes is not known. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gaseous signaling molecule that plays several roles including that of a vasodilator in the peripheral vascular system. H2S is produced by both mammalian cells and sulfate reducing bacteria (SRB). SRB in the gut are known to convert hydrogen, a by-product of bacterial fermentation, to H2S. Bismuth subsalicylate (BSS) lowers the availability of luminal H2S by binding directly to this gas in the gut lumen. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that a high fat diet may increase portal venous blood flow in a BSS-reversible fashion in rats (n = 8/group) fed one of 4 diets for 8 weeks: HFD, HFD + BSS, standard diet (SDD) and SDD + BSS. Portal venous blood flow was measured in laparotomized animals using a perivascular ultrasonic probe. To directly test the effect of H2S, portal venous blood flow was also compared before (baseline) and after infusing NaHS, a donor of H2S, into the jejunum. We found that baseline rates of portal venous blood flow were significantly greater in the HFD group [23.41 ± 0.4mL/min, p < 0.05] than SDD group [17.48 ± 0.2 mL/min], HFD + BSS [17.95 ± 0.3mL/min] or SDD + BSS [14.49 ± 0.2mL/min]. H2S donor increased portal venous blood flow significantly more in the HFD group [6.1 ± 0.26mL/min, p < 0.05] when compared to SDD group [1.88 ± 0.18mL/min], HFD + BSS [2.00 ± 0.40mL/min] or SDD + BSS [3.45 ± 0.34mL/min). qPCR using primers targeting the dissimilatory sulfite reductase beta-subunit (dsrB) of SRB ([NiFe] hydrogenase gene fragment), the phyla Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes showed no difference between groups in the distal small intestine. The liver enzymes AST and ALT were significantly elevated in the HFD group than HFD + BSS, SDD and SDD + BSS (p = 0.044, 0.011, respectively). In conclusion, an increase in portal venous blood flow consistent with a hyperdynamic circulation was observed in HFD-fed animals with a further increase induced by infusion of NaHS. In HFD-fed animals, the increase in portal venous blood flow at baseline and the further increase following NaHS infusion were both reversed by H2S-binding BSS administered to the gut supporting the conclusion that increased portal venous blood flow in HFD-fed animals was driven by gut bacteria-derived H2S.
Linear Low-Density Polyethylene Nanocomposites Reinforced by Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes Functionalized with Hyperbranched Poly(ether-ketone)s
Authors: Kang Hyo Seon , Yoon Seo Jeong , Baek Jaehoon , Jeon In-Yup
Published: March 2024

Multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) functionalized with hyperbranched poly(ether-ketone)s (H-f-M) were prepared through in-situ polymerization and Friedel-Crafts acylation between MWCNT and 3,5-diphenoxy benzoic acid. The resultant H-f-M displayed very good dispersion and compatibility with the LLDPE matrix due to the hyperbranched poly(ether-ketone)s functional groups. H-f-M@LLDPE_X nanocomposites prepared through a solution mixing method with the H-f-M as a filler, exhibited exceptional performance, particularly in terms of mechanical properties and thermal stability. Among them, the H-f-M@LLDPE_2 nanocomposites stood out as the most promising because they demonstrated a remarkable increase in tensile strength, Young's modulus, tensile toughness, and elongation, by 39.0%, 32.7%, 48.1%, and 18.5%, respectively, compared to the pure LLDPE. Given its excellent performance and straightforward functionalization, the H-f-M with hyperbranched polymers shows promise as a novel reinforcing filler for polymer applications.
RAIN: a Machine Learning-based identification for HIV-1 bNAbs
Authors: Perez Laurent , Foglierini Mathilde
Published: March 2024

Broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) are promising candidates for the treatment and prevention of HIV-1 infection. Despite their critical importance, automatic detection of HIV-1 bNAbs from immune repertoire is still lacking. Here, we developed a straightforward computational method for Rapid Automatic Identification of bNAbs (RAIN) based on Machine Learning methods. In contrast to other approaches using one-hot encoding amino acid sequences or structural alignment for prediction, RAIN uses a combination of selected sequence-based features for accurate prediction of HIV-1 bNAbs. We demonstrate the performance of our approach on non-biased, experimentally obtained sequenced BCR repertoires from HIV-1 immune donors. RAIN processing leads to the successful identification of novel HIV-1 bNAbs targeting the CD4-binding site of the envelope glycoprotein. In addition, we validate the identified bNAbs using in vitro neutralization assay and we solve the structure of one of them in complex with the soluble native-like heterotrimeric envelope glycoprotein by single-particle cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM). Overall, we propose a method to facilitate and accelerate HIV-1 bNAbs discovery from non-selected immune repertoires.
Characterization of Subdirectly Irreducible Heyting Algebras with Negative Tense Operators
Authors: Almiñana Federico Gabriel , Pelaitay Gustavo
Published: March 2024

In [16], Ma and Li established Intuitionistic Propositional Logic with Galois negations (IGN). These logics can be viewed as the ordered dualization of Ewald’s intuitionistic tense logic IKt, where Galois negations function as the ordered duals of residuated pairs of tense operators. In [1], we introduced the concept of negative tense operators on Heyting algebras and defined the variety of tense H-algebras. This new variety of algebras serves as the algebraic semantics for IGN. In this paper, we extend our investigation into tense H-algebras, focusing specifically on their topological properties. Particularly, we provide a topological characterization of subdirectly irreducible tense H-algebras.
Mathematics Subject Classification (2010) 06D20 · 03G25 · 06A15