bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The safety and efficacy of left subclavian artery reconstruction through in situ needle fenestration in thoracic endovascular aortic repair
Authors: Meng Xiaohu , Xie Xupin , Liu Yongchang , Huang Changpin , Wang Linjun , Xu Dong , Liu Hanyi , Ye Ziqiu , Xie Weihong , Fang Xin
Published: December 2023

In recent years, thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR) with left subclavian artery (LSA) preservation via in situ needle fenestration has been performed at the author's hospital for the treatment of thoracic aortic diseases and has achieved good clinical results. This study analyzed the safety and effectiveness of this method by summarizing relevant data. The study retrospectively analyzed the relevant clinical data of the patients, including demographic information, clinical manifestations, perioperative outcomes and follow-up results. The number of fenestrations and the specifications of the fenestration stent were determined according to preoperative computed tomographic arteriography (CTA) imaging data. The LSA was reconstructed by using in situ needle fenestration technique, and CTA was performed at the initial 3-month visit and then annually thereafter. All patients were successfully operated on, and the success rate of in situ fenestration of the left subclavian artery (LSA) was 100%. The mean follow-up duration was 31 months (range: 6-78 months). Follow-up CTA showed no progression of aortic lesions in any patient and no fenestration branch vessel occlusion. In situ needle fenestration technology for LSA preservation in TEVAR is feasible and effective for the treatment of thoracic aortic diseases. The follow-up results are satisfactory, and the technique has a high success rate, high subclavian artery stent patency rate and a low complication rate.
Early Childhood Height is a Determinant of Young Adult Stature in Rural Nepal
Authors: Chen Jiaxin , Adkhikari Ramesh K. , Wu Lee S-F , Khatry Subarna K. , Christian Parul , LeClerq Steven C. , Katz Joanne , West Keith P.
Published: December 2023

Background: Does preschool height predict adult stature in undernourished settings? The extent to which preschool length or height forecasts young adult stature is unclear in chronically undernourished populations.
Methods: In 2006-8, we assessed height in a cohort of 1859 young adults, aged 16-23 years, in rural Nepal who, as preschoolers (<4 yr), were measured at baseline and again 16 months later during a vitamin A supplementation trial in 1989-91. We assessed by linear regression the ability of preschool length (L, measured <24 mo) or height (Ht, 24-59 mo), at each year of age to predict 16-23 year old height, adjusted for month of young adult age, interval duration (in months), caste, preschool weight-for-height z-score and, in young women, time since menarche, marriage status and pregnancy history.
Results: Young women were a mean of 0.81, 1.15, 0.8, 0.23, 0.35 cm taller (all p<0.01) and young men, 0.85, 1.17, 0.69, 0.63 and 0.49 cm taller (all p<0.001) per cm of attained L/Ht at each successive preschool year of age and, overall, were 1.98 and 2.39 cm taller for each unit increase in preschool L/Ht z-score (L/HAZ) (both p<0.001). Coefficients were generally larger for 16-month follow-up measurements. Combining data from both early childhood assessments, the percent of young adult height attained by children with normal L/HAZ (>-1) increased from 38-40% mid-infancy to ~69-74% by 6 years of age. By 3-6 years of age heights of stunted children (L/HAZ<-2) were consistently ~4-7% lower in their young adult height versus normal statured children. There was no effect of preschool vitamin A receipt.
Conclusions: Shorter young children become shorter adults but predictive effects can vary by sex, age assessed, and may be influenced by year or season of measurement.
Machine Learning Model Based on Radiomics Features for AO/OTA Classification of Pelvic Fractures on Pelvic Radiographs
Authors: Park Jun Young , Lee Seung Hwan , Kim Young Jae , Kim Kwang Gi , Lee Gil Jae
Published: December 2023

Objectives: Pelvic radiography can quickly diagnose pelvic fractures, and the Association for Osteosynthesis Foundation and Orthopedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) classification system is useful for evaluating pelvic fracture instability. This study aimed to develop a radiomics-based machine-learning algorithm to quickly diagnose fractures on pelvic X-ray and classify their instability. A total of 93 features were extracted based on radiomics:18 first-order, 24 GLCM, 16 GLRLM, 16 GLSZM, 5 NGTDM, and 14 GLDM features. To improve the performance of machine learning, the feature selection methods RFE, SFS, LASSO, and Ridge were used, and the machine learning models used LR, SVM, RF, XGB, MLP, KNN, and LGBM.
Results: The machine learning model was trained based on the selected features using four feature-selection methods. Among them, the combination with the machine learning model SVM showed the best performance, with an average AUC of 0.75±0.06. By obtaining a feature-importance graph for the combination of RFE and SVM, it is possible to identify features with high importance.
Conclusions: The AO/OTA classification of normal pelvic rings and pelvic fractures on pelvic AP radiographs using a radiomics-based machine learning model showed the highest AUC when using the SVM classification combination.
Fabrication and electrochemical properties of nanorod-shaped LiFePO4 using iron powder as the iron source
Authors: Qin Anrui , Hu Junxian , Wang Li , Yuan Yajie , Li Yin , Yao Yaochun
Published: December 2023

In this work, nanorod-shaped LiFePO4 cathode materials are synthesized using an liquid-phase method with reduced iron powder, H3PO4, and LiOH·H2O as source materials. The crystal structure, morphology and electrochemical performance are characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning/transmission electron microscope (SEM/TEM), electrochemical test. The results illustrate that Li:Fe:P molar ratio plays an significant role in regulating the morphology and structure of LiFePO4. By modifying the reaction molar ratios, the material undergo a transformation from spherical-shaped nanoparticles to nanorod-shaped. After carbon coating, the LiFePO4/C composite material prepared at 180°C for 12 h with Li:Fe:P ratio 3:1:1.5 displays outstanding electrochemical performance. It achieves a discharge capacity of 120 mAh/g at 1 C, and even after 200 cycles, the capacity retention of this composite material remains above 95%. This method provides a simple, economic and environmentally friendly way to prepare LiFePO4 cathode material for lithium-ion battery.
CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T Cells induced by IL-15 exert liver injury through NKG2D in chronic hepatitis B cirrhosis
Authors: Xu Min , Fan Jing , Liu Ke , Yan Wanping , Wu Huanyu , Dong Hongliang , Ye Wei , Yang Yongfeng
Published: December 2023

Background: Liver cirrhosis could lead to immune dysfunction. During the pathogenesis of liver cirrhosis, CD8+ T cells play a critical role. While CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells, also called bystander activation CD8+ T cells, had been shown to
be involved in host injury, its specific contribution to liver cirrhosis had remained not unclear. The aim of this study was to understand how these CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells exerted a pathogenic role in liver cirrhosis.
Methods: Flow cytometry was performed to detect the immunophenotype, antigen-specific T cells, cytokines secretion, and cytotoxicity related indicators of CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells. Transcriptome analysis was utilized to analyze the functional properties of these cells. The cytotoxicity of CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells was detected by cytotoxicity assay and antibody blocking assay.
Results: The percentage of CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells in patients with liver cirrhosis significantly increased and was correlated with liver injury. These CD8+ T cells contained largely non-HBV specific T cells. Transcriptome analysis revealed that these CD8+ T cells subsets exhibited innate-like functional characteristic. In addition, these cells mainly consisted of effector memory T cells and displayed high expression levels of cytotoxicity-related cytokines, especially granzyme B and perforin. Stimulation experiments with cytokines shown that IL-15 could promote the activation and proliferation of these CD8+ T cells. Lastly, blocking assays indicated that CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells had strong cytotoxic effects in a TCR-independent manner, mediated by NKG2D.
Conclusion: CD38+HLA-DR+CD8+ T cells were correlated with the liver injury in liver cirrhosis, and these cells exerted liver damaging effects through NKG2D in a TCR-independent manner.
Diabetes Mellitus Type2 and Popular Misconceptions: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Authors: Babak Anahita , Rouzbahani Shiva , Safaeian Alireza , Poonaki Farzam
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Diabetes is a chronic condition that requires long-term close management to prevent complications. One of the most important barriers to treatment is common misconceptions surrounding different areas related to this disease such as etiological causes, dietary information, medical treatment, long-term laboratory testing, and complications.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 390 patients with Diabetes Mellitus type 2 were enrolled through convenient sampling method from different Diabetes centers. A Validated set of questions about the etiology of DM, dietary information, medical treatment, and complications was used to extract data. The results were analyzed with Chi-square test using SPSS software v. 24.
Results: A total of 390 subjects (mean age 56 ± 13.4 years, 58% females) enrolled in the survey. The most common misbeliefs regarding diabetes mellitus, extracted from this study are as follows:
Only solid oils are fattening (302, 77.4%), patients with diabetes are allowed to consume dried mulberry in any amount (201, 51.5%), diabetes is only a hereditary disease (177, 45.3%), only obese people can get diabetes (167, 42.8%), and patients with diabetes are allowed to consume fruits in any amount because fruit sugar is natural (143, 36.6%).
Conclusion: Patients have different misconceptions about the pathogenesis and management of diabetes mellitus. As myths can affect glycemic control adversely, patient education should be an important part of patient management.
Correlation analysis of PPP2R1A gene expression and immune infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Peng Xiancong , Wang Qizhi , Zheng Hailun , Liu Wei , Mei Letian , Ren Zhi , Xu Linxia , Huang Xixiang , Li Dapeng , Ma Zhenzeng , Wei Jun , Chai Damin , Ke Xiquan
Published: December 2023

Background
To investigate the effect and prognostic value of PPP2R1A on immune infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).
Methods
The expression of PPP2R1A in HCC and its relationship with the prognosis of HCC patients were analysis by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database using bioinformatics methods and verified by immunohistochemical staining. Immunomodulators associated with PPP2R1A were extracted from the TISIDB database, and immune events associated with PPP2R1A were analysis by KEGG pathway enrichment. COX regression was used to develop a multigene risk prediction model for prognostic risk model construction and validation.
Results
The expression level of PPP2R1A in hepatocellular carcinoma tissues was significantly higher than that in paraneoplastic tissues (P < 0.05).The overall survival of the PPP2R1A high expression group was significantly lower than that of the low expression group (P = 0.003). The risk score can be used as an independent predictor of prognosis in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma.
Conclusion
PPP2R1A is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma, and its expression level correlates with the overall survival of patients; PPP2R1A correlates with the tumor immune infiltration of hepatocellular carcinoma, suggesting that PPP2R1A may be a potential immunotherapeutic target for hepatocellular carcinoma.
Doppler ultrasound combined with intravascular ultrasound-guided lower limb arterioplasty and stenting for occlusive femoropopliteal artery disease
Authors: Tan Junjie , Chen Xiaojie , Li Jihua , Jiang Yurong , Ma Ying , Chen Jianqiao , Wang Chunyan , Bai Xiao , Xu Weiguo
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Endovascular therapies have become common clinical treatment modalities for lower extremity atherosclerotic occlusion. Traditional digital subtraction angiographic images provide limited information, whereas Doppler and intravascular ultrasound, as adjunctive imaging techniques, provide real-time dynamic vascular information. The aim of this study was to investigate the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of Doppler ultrasound combined with intravascular ultrasound-guided percutaneous transluminal angioplasty for treating femoral popliteal chronic total occlusive lesions.
Materials and Methods
The clinical data of 13 patients (13 limbs) with chronic total occlusive lesions of the lower limb arteries who underwent Doppler ultrasound with intravascular ultrasound-guided percutaneous transluminal angioplasty at the Interventional Treatment Center were retrospectively analyzed. The primary evaluation criterion was the procedural success rate. The secondary evaluation criteria were the differences between preoperative and postoperative ankle-brachial index, blood creatinine level, and estimated glomerular filtration rate. Procedural success was defined as the placement of a guidewire through the occluded segment of the femoropopliteal artery followed by either balloon dilatation or stent placement as planned.
Results
All patients (100%) successfully underwent the procedure as planned. The ankle brachial index, which was 0.236 ± 0.072 preoperatively, significantly increased to 0.825 ± 0.079 after the procedure (t = 18.474, P = 0.000). The differences between the preoperative and postoperative glomerular filtration rate estimates and blood creatinine levels were not statistically significant, indicating that the procedures did not compromise renal function.
Conclusion
Doppler ultrasound combined with intravascular ultrasound-guided percutaneous transluminal angioplasty was a dynamic, precise, and safe regimen for treating femoral popliteal chronic total occlusive lesions.
RETRACTED: Chronic bilateral ligament and meniscal right knee injuries alleviated with a single novel deep muscle stimulator treatment
Authors: von Deneen Karen , Ming He , Alemayehu Dereje Gobena , Khosla Ajit
Published: December 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Biosynthesis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Averrhoa Bilimbi Fruit Extract: Deagglomeration and Antibiofilm Activity Measurements
Authors: Samadhi Tjokorde Walmiki , Wonoputri Vita , Khairunnisa Shafira , Rahayu Eka
Published: December 2023

Zinc oxide nanoparticle was biosynthesized using Averrhoa bilimbi fruit extract as reducing and capping agent, with a focus on the impact of in-situ deagglomeration method on physical properties and pathogenic inhibition activity against Escherichia coli biofilm. Biosynthesis variables included deagglomeration method (ultrasonication vs. PVA as deagglomerant), temperature (30, 60 °C), and zinc precursor/plant extract volumetric ratio (1:2, 2:1). Upon calcination at 375 °C, crystalline ZnO nanoparticles with high phase purity were obtained. The final product formed soft agglomerates, as indicated by hydrodynamic mean particle diameters of 1.0-3.5 mm compared against mean individual particle diameter of 22 nm. Chemical deagglomeration and lower precursor/extract ratio promoted smaller agglomerates. Interaction between deagglomeration method and biosynthesis temperature implied that physical deagglomeration was more effective at higher temperature while the opposite applied for chemical deagglomeration. Antibiofilm activity of the nanoparticles was indicated by an average E. coli population reduction of 61% at 50 ppm ZnO dose, which increased to 78% at 200 ppm dose. Lower biosynthesis temperature and precursor/extract ratio increased antibiofilm activity, likely due to higher availability of residual plant extract biomolecules in the final ZnO nanoparticle product. Deagglomeration method did not directly impact the activity. However, the combination of chemical deagglomeration and higher ZnO dose produced a synergistic effect in inhibiting the E. coli biofilm growth. Overall, ZnO nanoparticle synthesized using Averrhoa bilimbi fruit extract exhibited promising antimicrobial activity against E. coli.
Development and Validation of a Risk Prediction Model for Sleep Disorders among Senior High School Students in China
Authors: Zhang Miaomiao , Zhou Ying , Wang Xu , Deng Guoying , Zhang Zhong
Published: December 2023

Background
Sleep disorders are extremely harmful to the health and learning abilities of senior high school students. This issue has garnered significant societal attention. The study aims to develop and validate a risk prediction model for identifying sleep disorders among senior high school students in China, thereby enabling schools and parents to identify high-risk individuals and implement timely interventions.
Methods
This study is a cross-sectional study. Cluster sampling was employed to recruit participants from senior high school students in China for the purpose of conducting a questionnaire survey from July to August 2021. The questionnaire includes demographic information, psychological status, lifestyle habits, and sleep status. We divided the data into training and validation sets using a 7:3 ratio. The logistic regression method was used to construct a prediction model, and the model was visualized using a nomogram. To evaluate the model’s discrimination, we utilized the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve. Calibration plots and the Hosmer-Lemeshow test were also used to evaluate calibration. Furthermore, decision-curve analysis was used to assess clinical practicality.
Results
This study included 4793 senior high school students, 24.2% of whom had sleep disorders. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed interpersonal sensitivity, anxiety, depression, high academic pressure, coffee consumption, alcohol consumption, smoking, eating before bedtime, staying up late, a poor sleep environment, and prolonged use of hand-held electronic devices were the risk factors for sleep disorders in senior high school students. We used these factors to construct a nomogram model. The AUC values for the training and validation sets were 0.862 (95% CI = 0.847-0.876) and 0.853 (95% CI = 0.830-0.876), respectively. Additionally, the Hosmer-Lemeshow test values for the training and validation sets were P = 0.682 and P = 0.1859, respectively.
Conclusion
The prediction model constructed in this research has good predictive performance. It is helpful for schools to identify high-risk groups for sleep disordersand provide references for subsequent prevention and treatment.
Association between Serum Monoterpene Levels, Hand Grip Strength, and Lean Muscle Mass in a Representative Sample of US Adults: NHANES 2013- 2014
Authors: Fang Yu-Wei , Wang ChiKang , Lin Chien-Yu
Published: December 2023

Background
Monoterpenes, a class of organic compounds with the molecular formula C10H16, have been the subject of considerable research due to their promising medicinal properties. Recent experiments suggest that they may have beneficial effects on skeletal muscles. However, the effects of exposure to monoterpenes on muscle strength and mass in humans remain unknown.
Methods
To address this knowledge gap, we included 1,202 adults (aged ≥ 18 years) from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to investigate the potential relationship between serum levels of three specific monoterpenes (α-pinene, β-pinene, and limonene), hand grip strength, and lean muscle mass.
Results
Our analysis showed that except for test 2 of hand 1, all other grip strength measures showed a positive correlation with ln-limonene levels. The coefficient (ß) for combined grip strength was 2.409 (S.E. = 0.891, P = 0.015). We also observed positive associations between serum limonene levels and lean muscle mass in several areas, including arms, legs, trunk, and total body. The ß coefficient for the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI) was 0.138 (S.E. = 0.041, P = 0.004). In addition, we found an interaction between sex and limonene, as well as between body mass index and limonene, with respect to the association with combined grip strength.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest a plausible association between exposure to limonene, hand grip strength, and lean muscle mass among adults in the United States. Further investigation is needed to fully understand the underlying mechanisms and medical significance of this association.
Association Between Trough Serum Vancomycin Concentration and Vancomycin-Associated Acute Kidney Injury and 30-Day Mortality in Critically Ill Elderly Adults
Authors: chen jialong , Lin Jing , Weng Jianzhen , Ju Yang , Li Yanming
Published: December 2023

Background: Vancomycin-associated acute kidney injury (VA-AKI) is the most clinically relevant side effect of vancomycin.
Method: Elderly patients with trough serum vancomycin concentration records(VTC) in the Medical Information Mart-IV (MIMIC-IV) and eICU databases were retrospectively studied.
Results: A total of 3,146 critically ill elderly adults were finally enrolled. The incidence of VA-AKI in the elderly population was 76.5%. Logistic regression analysis revealed significant relationships between VA-AKI and various factors, including VTC, comorbidities, and laboratory indicators, and SOFA, and GCS score. For each mg/L increase, the OR for VA-AKI increased by 2.5%. The association between VTC and 30-day mortality was found to be statistically significant (odds ratio (OR): 1.021, 95% CI: 1.010-1.031), P < 0.001). The Restricted cubic splines (RCS) curves revealed that VTCranged of 19.67 to 35.72mg/l for AKI and 19.17 to 42.86mg/l for 30-day mortality exhibit OR with 95% CIabove 1, indicating statistically significant associations with an increased risk of AKI and 30-day mortality, respectively. In the subgroup analysis, VTC was identified as a risk factor for VA-AKI in specific patient groups, including white individuals, female patients, those with shock, patients with SOFA >6, patients with baseline creatinine >1.2 mg/dl and patients with or without exposed to other nephrotoxic medications.
Conclusion: This study found the significant association between VTC and the incidence of VA-AKI and 30-day mortality in critically ill elderly adults. The RCS curves indicated concentration ranges for AKI (19.67-35.72 mg/L) and 30-day mortality (19.17-42.86 mg/L), signifying increased risk.
Reinforcing Face Anti-Spoofing with Multi-Scale Modality
Authors: Zhang Licheng , Luo Dingsheng , Wu Xihong
Published: December 2023

Face anti-spoofing (FAS) plays an important role in protecting face recognition systems. State-of-the-art works attempt to employ multi-scale contextual information contained in feature maps to raise FAS performance. These multi-scale based methods 1) fuse feature pyramids at different levels in networks, or 2) merge features extracted from multiple face crops, or 3) combine a number of hand-crafted features as multi-scale features. Previous works are awkward in leverage multi-scale benefits, leading to limited performance improvement. Here in this paper, we propose a new multi-scale based approach for FAS. Different from state-of-the-art methods, we design a multi-scale module, which can extract multi-scale feature representations at different scales, and embed it in certain positions in FAS networks. In our self-designed multi-scale module, we employ atrous convolution as well as average pooling followed by upsampling, both of which can extract multi-scale features. We conduct extensive experiments on four benchmark databases, i.e., OULU-NPU, SiW, CASIA-MFSD and Replay-Attack. Results show that our proposed multi-scale based method: 1) not only achieves state-of-the-art performance on intra database testing (especially 2.5% ACER in protocol 4 of the OULU-NPU database and 0.65% ACER in protocol 3 of the SiW database), 2) but also generalizes well on cross database testing (particularly 19.6% HTER from Replay-Attack to CASIA-MFSD databases).
FLEW: a DNS solver for compressible flows in generalized curvilinear coordinates
Authors: Soldati Giulio , Ceci Alessandro , Pirozzoli Sergio
Published: December 2023

We present FLEW, an in-house high-fidelity solver for Direct Numerical Simulation (DNS) of turbulent compressible flows over arbitrary shaped geometries. FLEW solves the Navier-Stokes equations written in a generalized curvilinear coordinate system, in which the surface coordinates are non-orthogonal, whereas the third axis is normal to the surface. Spatial discretization relies on high-order finite-difference schemes. The convective terms are discretized using an hybrid approach, combining the near-zero numerical dissipation provided by central approximations with the robustness of Weighted Essentially Non-Oscillatory (WENO) schemes, required to capture shock waves. Central schemes are stabilized using a skew-symmetric-like splitting of convective derivatives, endowing the solver with the energy-preserving property in the inviscid limit. The maximum order of accuracy is eighth for central schemes (also used for viscous terms discretization) and seventh for WENO. The code is oriented to modern High-Performance Computing (HPC) platforms thanks to Message Passing Interface (MPI) parallelization and the ability to run on Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) architectures. Reliability, accuracy and robustness of the code are assessed in the low-subsonic, transonic and supersonic regimes. We present the results of several benchmarks, namely the inviscid Taylor-Green vortex, turbulent curved channel flow, transonic laminar flow over a NACA 0012 airfoil and turbulent supersonic ramp flow. The results for all configurations proved to be in excellent agreement with previous studies.
The first national study on managing female fertility preservation in Tunisian prepubertal girls and women with cancer: Where are we in 2023?
Authors: Boughzala Ines , Sallem Amira , Kooli Rim , Boussabbeh Manel , Garrouch Dorra , Mehdi Meriem
Published: December 2023

Background
The incidence of cancers is increasing worldwide. Female patients of prepubertal age as well as those of reproductive age are eligible for fertility preservation (FP). The lack of literature data focusing on the state of the art of managing fertility preservation among Tunisian women with cancer encouraged us to conduct the current study.
Methods
This descriptive, observational and multicentric national study was conducted online. A survey containing 24 questions was sent to 529 Tunisian oncologists and hematologists covering all the Tunisian territory. Two reminders were sent by e-mail 2 weeks later each.
Results
A total of 74 responses were received and analyzed. The answering rate was 13.9%. Infertility risks were discussed with patients of reproductive age by 66.2% of all physicians surveyed, and 62.2% referred patients to a fertility center before beginning treatments. The most mentioned FP technique was oocyte cryoconservation (60.8%). Collaborating with a fertility center was the most recommended way to enhance the effectiveness of FP according to the interviewed physicians. A percentage of 2.7% of practitioners considered themselves knowledgeable in FP techniques.
Conclusion
This study is to the best of our knowledge the first national survey to explore oncofertility management in Tunisia. This showed that the FP field is still in the processing range. We recommend in light of these results, the establishment of national guidelines to provide cancer patients with the appropriate information with regard to FP. A more effective collaboration between cancer and fertility centers is also needed for better management of fertility preservation for female patients in Tunisia.
Study on geopolymer recycled foam concrete based on waste wood flour and its engineering performance
Authors: Xu Chenyang , Wang Peihan , Guo Huijuan , Liu Haibao , Zhang ZhiZhu , Shao Changhai , Li Qiuyi , Guo Yuanxin
Published: December 2023

In order to improve the application of forestry by-products, This study explores the possibility of using waste wood flour to prepare geopolymer recycled foam concrete (GRFC) in architectural applications to reduce the use of mineral aggregates and improve the thermal insulation performance of the concrete. Compared with mineral aggregate, waste wood flour has advantages in density, toughness and water absorption. In addition, the addition of waste wood powder and foam at the same time will change the structural morphology of ordinary foam concrete. Therefore, this experiment explores the water retention performance, thermal insulation performance, mechanical properties (compressive strength, flexural strength, bond strength), toughness, shrinkage rate and compactness under different foam and waste wood powder (WFA) content, which makes an exploration for replacing ordinary mortar and ordinary foam concrete.The results showed that the addition of WFA strengthens the stability between pores in the honeycomb structure, and inhibits the loss of foam in the newly mixed slurry due to different internal and external humidity. It is also an effective way to improve the water retention performance, thermal insulation performance and embrittlement of ordinary mortar and foamed concrete. However, foam seems to have a negative effect on interfacial transition zone (ITZ) of wood flour and cement pastes.
Role of child marriage on women’s nutritional status in adulthood
Authors: Datta Biplab , Fazlul Ishtiaque
Published: December 2023

Background: Child marriage, defined as marriage before the age of 18 years, could have detrimental impacts on women’s physical and psychological development affecting health outcomes in adulthood. This observational study aimed to examine whether women’s nutritional status, measured by body mass index (BMI) categories, was associated with being married in childhood.
Methods: Using nationally representative repeated cross-sectional data on 822,642 married women, aged 20 to 49 years, from the 2015-16 and 2019-21 waves of India National Family Health Survey, we assessed the risk of underweight, overweight, and obesity conditions, relative to having BMI at the normal threshold, between women who were married as children and as adults.
Results: Estimates of the baseline multinomial logistic regression model, without controlling for household wealth, showed that women married in childhood were 1.09 times more likely to be underweight and 7.5% and 8.3% less likely to be overweight or obese, respectively. However, when household wealth index quintiles were adjusted, women married as children were found 8.2% less likely to be underweight, and 1.12 and 1.23 times more likely to be overweight or obese, respectively. These results were robust across different birth cohorts and geographic region sub-groups and indicated a classic case of the Simpson’s paradox.
Conclusion: We found that compared to women who were married as adults, women married in childhood had a higher risk of overweight and obesity. Our estimates of this relationship can play an important role in educating public health stakeholders and stimulating further research aimed at informing targeted policy interventions.
Study on the Vibration Behavior of the Head of an Upright Seated Human under Vertical Whole-Body Vibration
Authors: Dong Ruichun , Lu Zhuangqi , Liu Zhong , Jiang Hui , Zhu Shuai , Zhang Kaifeng
Published: December 2023

To investigate the response behavior of the human head in upright sitting, a seated human finite element model with detailed skeletal and muscular soft tissues was created based on human biomechanics. The vertical first-order resonant frequency of each segment model was calculated by modal analysis, and the seat-to-head transmissibility (STHT) of the seated human finite element model was calculated by the random response method. The model had been verified through simulation and experimental studies. It was found that the upright seated human under vertical whole-body vibration showed an apparent resonance phenomenon around 5.7 Hz. The maximum value of the direct-axis response of the head in the sagittal plane was located in the posterior occipital region, where the STHT was 10% larger than that at the crown and 23% larger than that at the forehead. The direct-axis responses of the head in various positions within the coronal plane were almost identical. The maximum value of the cross-axis response was located at the crown of the head, and the response peaks in the sagittal and coronal planes were symmetrical about this point. Moreover, the maximum difference of direct-axis response at different positions reached 119%. Additionally, we found that the seated human body had not only Significant vertical and fore-aft displacements but also head rotation, leading to complex coupling vibration of the head. This study provides a reference and theoretical basis for the seated human head response measurement, model creation, and vibration comfort evaluation.
Level-set-based topology optimization of threedimensional structures considering the manufacturing process with realistic milling tools
Authors: Colling Christopher , Schumacher Axel , Mecking Klaus
Published: December 2023

In this work, we develop an approach for the level set based topology optimization of millable 3D structures. We focus on the 3-axis machining with realistic formed milling tools. The basis of the method lies in the identification of surface areas that cannot be reached by a given milling tool during optimization. For this purpose, we present an interpolation method that identifies these areas by an interpolation of the level set function along the outer contours of realistic milling tools, considering available machining directions. To minimize inaccessible regions, we define a potential field whose values decrease linearly into the outer normal direction of the structure. The inaccessible regions are pushed outward by minimizing their respective potential and therefore become accessible. Manufacturability is integrated into the optimization problem as an explicit constraint.
Nano delivery of antitubercular drugs to the brain: pharmacokinetic and therapeutic implications in mice model of tuberculous meningitis
Authors: Majeed Shahnawaz , parry ZahoorAhmad , Sharma Sadhna
Published: December 2023

Tuberculous meningitis is the most severe form of extrapulmonary tuberculosis. Though it represents approximately 1% of all cases of tuberculosis, it causes mortality or severe disabilities in almost fifty percent of the patients affected. Current treatment of the disease involves the use of Isoniazid, Rifampicin, and Pyrazinamide which is associated with a number of drawbacks like the limited ability of antitubercular drugs to cross the blood-brain barrier, hepato and nephrotoxicity issues, lengthy treatment schedule, and patient non-compliance. To overcome the limitations, Polybutylcyanoacrylate (PBCA) nanoparticles encapsulating anti-tubercular drugs were synthesized by anionic polymerization and double coated with PEG+P-80 for oral delivery of drugs to the brain. Nanoparticles were in nanosize range and sterically stable. Pharmacokinetic analysis showed sustained release of drugs in the plasma for about 96h and their retention in the brain for up to 12 days after single dose oral administration of nanoencapsulated antitubercular drugs. A murine model of tuberculous meningitis was developed by intracranial administration of Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv in mice and chemotherapeutic efficacy of nano-encapsulated drugs was evaluated in the infected mice model. Drug-loaded PBCA nanoparticles were found to be more effective than free drugs for the treatment of tuberculous meningitis as 4 or 8 doses of the nano-encapsulated formulation were equi-efficacious to 32 or 64 doses of free drugs administered daily.
Understanding population-specific structural differences in brain aging
Authors: THOTTUPATTU ALPHIN J , Sivaswamy Jayanthi , Holla Bharath , Saini Jithender
Published: December 2023

Understanding distinct neurological aging patterns across various populations is vital in the context of a globally aging populace. This study seeks to unravel the structural variations in the aging brain, taking into consideration different ethnic backgrounds. MRI data from Indian, Chinese, Japanese, and Caucasian populations were analyzed using a two-pronged approach. Initially, a group analysis was performed involving tissue segmentation through FSL-FAST, examining gray matter (GM), white matter (WM), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Subsequently, a continuous model-based analysis was employed, defining aging as a diffeomorphic transformation, which facilitated a detailed intra- and inter-population analysis, and examined both global anatomy and age-dependent distances of each population in comparison to the Indian population. The analysis revealed distinct aging trajectories in the different populations. Notably, the Japanese demographic exhibited a delayed onset of GM reductions and ventricular expansion. Additionally, we observed a significant hemispherical asymmetry in the expansion rate in the left brain's CSF-filled region across all populations. Detailed insights into the spatial distribution of brain deformations over time were obtained, with particular focus on anatomical changes relative to a reference time point. Our findings are a step towards a nuanced understanding of the aging process, opening avenues for personalized age-related healthcare strategies rooted in a understanding of population-specific neurological aging trajectories.
Symbiotic arbuscular mycorrhiza amplifies herbivory interactions and decreases the energy of floral nectar
Authors: Vera Gabriel A. Brito , Perez Fernanda
Published: December 2023

Background and Aims
Arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM) are crucial in terrestrial ecosystems, exchanging nutrients for carbon with plants and potentially modulating events on the soil surface by making nutrients available to herbivores and pollinators. The quadruple interactions between mycorrhizae, plants, herbivores, and pollinators are a complex phenomenon as a whole; a detailed understanding of their synergistic or antagonistic effects remains a pending research challenge.
Methods
To comprehend these multiple interactions, AM were inoculated into Nicotiana tabacum and the magnitude of the symbiotic effect on floral (nectar, floral morphology, floral count) and vegetative (plant size) characteristics was evaluated, as well as the effect on pollinator visitation rate and herbivory intensity.
Results
We support the hypothesis of a symbiotic effect with a tendency toward antagonism, resulting in negative consequences for the plant. Symbiosis decreased the synthesis of floral nectar, and consequently reduced the energy content of floral nectar, without producing any effect on the pollinator visitation rate. An increase in herbivory rate was observed in mycorrhizal plants, indicating that belowground symbiotic relationships enhanced surface-level antagonistic interactions.
Conclusion
Mycorrhiza negatively influenced the plant's metabolic activity, leading to repercussions for energy investment in both pollinator manipulation resources (nectar) and defense and protection against herbivores.
Evaluation of the Influencing Factors of English Teachers' Online Small-class Blended Teaching from the Perspective of Psychology
Authors: Zhang Jing , Liu Huiqin
Published: December 2023

The superiority of the blended learning model has become a new research topic in China's educational circles, and the factors that affect the effectiveness of blended teaching have also attracted increasing attention. This paper attempted to analyze the factors affecting blended teaching from the perspective of psychology, and to lay a theoretical foundation for future research. This paper also proposed a Co-evolutionary Teaching-learning-based Optimization (CTLBO) for solving constrained optimization problems. This method combined the advantages of co-evolution and Teaching Learning Based Optimization (TLBO) without adding any parameters and retained the advantages of TLBO algorithm with fewer parameters. Through the analysis of three small-class English teaching cases, this paper can help teachers better understand the influence of their own cognition on their teaching behavior. Through the investigation of the blended teaching method, it was found that 65.28% of the students chose the blended teaching of online and offline. No matter the reason, it can be seen that blended teaching is very popular among students. Teachers' guidance in the classroom can promote the interaction, communication and emotional exchange between teachers and students, which cannot be ignored.
Prevotella histicola activates the Wnt/beta-catenin signaling pathway through the gut–bone axis and promotes osteoblastic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells to alleviate estrogen-deficient osteoporosis
Authors: Huang Furong , Tan Zenglin , Wu Minmin , Xu Tingting , Guo Anhao , Pan Jingye , Yan Hede , Chen Lei
Published: December 2023

Postmenopausal osteoporosis (PMO) is characterized by dysregulated bone metabolism owing to estrogen insufficiency. Our previous clinical study revealed that postmenopausal women afflicted with osteoporosis exhibited notably diminished levels of Prevotella abundance relative to individuals possessing normal bone density. This study aimed to confirm the anti-osteoporosis-like effects of P. histicola and elucidate its potential mechanism. Mice were treated with P. histicola after ovariectomy (OVX). Changes in bone strength among the mice were detected using micro-computed tomography (CT), and alterations in the microbiome were examined using 16S rRNA sequencing. CT of the distal femurs demonstrated that P. histicola significantly improved bone mineral density (BMD), bone volume fraction (BV/TV), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), and trabecular separation (Tb.Sp) compared to the OVX + high fat diet (HFD) group. Furthermore, P. histicola ameliorated dysbiosis induced by the HFD and OVX and alleviated intestinal mucosal damage after OVX. Intestinal tight junction proteins ZO-1 and occludin were significantly upregulated in the treatment group, and CD163 angiogenesis-related macrophage marker and Ki-67 proliferation marker increased compared to that in the OVX + HFD group. P. histicola mitigated the levels of circulating and bone TNF-α while enhancing the expression of osteogenic-related transcription factor Runx2. Furthermore, P. histicola upregulated OCN expression in OVX + HFD mice and promoted osteogenesis by facilitating osteogenic differentiation through the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway. In summary, P. histicola potentially ameliorates intestinal permeability, reduces serum and femoral inflammation levels, and promotes osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells through the Wnt/beta-catenin pathway to alleviate estrogen deficiency-induced osteoporosis by modulating gut microbiota.
A multi-institutional randomized phase III study comparing minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy versus open distal pancreatectomy for pancreatic cancer; Japan Clinical Oncology Group study JCOG2202 (LAPAN study)
Authors: Ikenaga Naoki , Hashimoto Tadayoshi , Mizusawa Junki , Kitabayashi Ryo , Sano Yusuke , Fukuda Haruhiko , Nakata Kohei , Shibuya Kazuto , Kitahata Yuji , Takada Minoru , Kamei Keiko , Kurahara Hiroshi , Ban Daisuke , Kobayashi Shogo , Nagano Hiroaki , Imamura Hajime , Unno Michiaki , Takahashi Amane , Yagi Shintaro , Wada Hiroshi , Shirakawa Hirofumi , Yamamoto Naoto , Hirono Seiko , Gotohda Naoto , Hatano Etsuro , Nakamura Masafumi , Ueno Makoto
Published: December 2023

Background
Minimally invasive distal pancreatectomy (MIDP), including laparoscopic and robotic distal pancreatectomy, has gained widespread acceptance over the last decade owing to its favorable short-term outcomes. However, evidence regarding its oncologic safety is insufficient. In March 2023, a randomized phase III study was launched in Japan to confirm the non-inferiority of overall survival in patients with resectable pancreatic cancer undergoing MIDP compared with that of patients undergoing open distal pancreatectomy (ODP).
Methods
This is a multi-institutional, randomized, phase III study. A total of 370 patients will be enrolled from 40 institutions within 4 years. The primary endpoint of this study is overall survival, and the secondary endpoints include relapse-free survival, proportion of patients undergoing radical resection, proportion of patients undergoing complete laparoscopic surgery, incidence of adverse surgical events, and length of postoperative hospital stay. Only a credentialed surgeon is eligible to perform both ODP and MIDP. All ODP and MIDP procedures will undergo centralized review using intraoperative photographs. The superiority of MIDP to ODP in terms of overall survival is tested when the non-inferiority of MIDP to ODP is statistically proven.
Discussion
If our study demonstrates the non-inferiority of MIDP in terms of overall survival, it would validate its short-term advantages and establish its long-term clinical efficacy.
Trial registration:
This trial is registered with the Japan Registry of Clinical Trials as jRCT 1031220705 [https://jrct.niph.go.jp/latest-detail/jRCT1031220705].
Ecological study and forest degradation of the sacred Waldiba Monastery’s dry woodland
Authors: Berhe Daniel Hagos , Retta Abeba Nigussie , Tefera Amare Sisay , Gidey Tesfay , Negussie Aklilu , Birhane Emiru , Hadgu Kiros Meles , Gebrehiwot Kflay
Published: December 2023

Anthropogenic disturbance put the woodlands in the monasteries and churches under significant threat. To study the floristic composition and forest degradation of Waldiba monastery dry woodland in Tigrai, Ethiopia, 30 plots were established along transect lines. We recorded 39 native woody species (33 trees, 5 shrubs and 1 liana) belonging to 19 families. Shannon diversity index, Simpson similarity index, evenness and dominance were 3.10, 0.94, 0.58 and 0.06, respectively. The densities of woody species were 922 stems ha-1 with a total basal area of 49.27 m2 ha-1. The tree species with higher IVI value were Dichrostachys cinerea (86.04%), Combretum fragrans (71.87%), Combretum hartmannianum (60.30%) and Combretum sp. (50.15%). The population structure of the woody species demonstrated various patterns. The regeneration status was not promising for vast majority of the species. Vachellia venosa and C. hartmannianum respectively are listed as endangered and vulnerable species in the IUCN red list species category. Waldiba dry woodland has undergone significant cover changes over a period of 46 years. Waldiba has lost much (65%) of its dense forest and open forest (44%) mainly due to anthropogenic disturbance. The woodland with all its biodiversity is under threat. The species with low IVI, species listed in IUCN red list and those species with none to poor regeneration status should be prioritized for in situ and ex situ conservation intervention to avert the threat. Research on reproductive ecology of the threatened endemic species is imperative, as the woodland should be managed for ecosystem services and biodiversity conservation.