bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dragonfly-Inspired 3D Bionic Folding Grid Structure Design
Authors: Dong Xin , Yao Leijiang , Liu Hong-jun , Ding You
Published: December 2024

The wings of a dragonfly exhibit a complex grid structure, comprising approximately 1-2% of its total weight, yet demonstrating exceptional mechanical efficiency. To replicate this structure, our study employed a multi-step approach. Initially, the main vein of the front wing was simulated using a branching structure generation technique. Subsequently, a Voronoi grid was overlaid to generate the complete bionic grid structure. Finally, the fold structure of the wing was simulated using origami principles to create a three-dimensional grid structure. This paper presents a novel method for simulating the three-dimensional fold structure of dragonfly wings and designing a rigid-flexible coupling grid structure. By accurately replicating the formation of dragonfly wings, our approach offers a promising avenue for the design of three-dimensional grid structures.
Scour Near Offshore Monopiles, Jacket-Type and Caisson-Type Structures
Authors: Van Rijn Leo , Geleynse Nathanael , Perk Luitze , Schoonhoven Doke
Published: December 2024

Scour near various offshore structures (monopile, caisson foundation, jacket structure) was studied by performing laboratory flume tests and numerical solutions with a semi-empirical model (SEDSCOUR) and a sophisticated 2DV-model (SUSTIM2DV). The laboratory test results show that the maximum free scour depth around a monopile without bed protection is slightly higher than the pile diameter. The maximum scour consisting of pile scour and global scour around an open jacket structure standing on 4 piles is much lower than the scour near the other structures (monopile and caisson). The maximum scour depth along a circular caisson foundation is found to be related to the base diameter of the structure. The main cause of the scour near these types of structures is the increase of the velocity along the flanks of the structure. Six cases have been used for validation: 2 laboratory cases (A, B) and 4 field cases (C,D,E,F). The measured scour values of the new physical model tests with the monopile and the open jacket structure presented in this paper are in reasonably good agreement with other laboratory and field scour data from the Literature. The semi-empirical SEDSCOUR-model proposed in this paper can be used for the reliable prediction of free scour, edge scour and global scour near monopiles and jacket structures in a sandy bed (even with a small percentage of mud, up to 30%). The maximum scour depth along a large-scale caisson structure is more difficult to predict because the scour depth depends on the precise geometry and dimensions of the structure and the prevailing flow and sediment conditions. A detailed 2DV-model with a fine horizontal grid (2 m) along a stream tube following the contour of the caisson is explored for scour predictions. The 2DV-model simulates the flow and sediment transport in 50 to 100 points over the depth along the stream tube and can be run a time-scale of 1 year.
Compound Fatigue Risk in Medium Haul Pilots
Authors: Devine Jaime K , Hursh Steven R , Behrend Julia
Published: December 2024

Fatigue from multiple sources (e.g., circadian, workload, stress, etc.) can create a compound safety risk. Pilots operating medium-haul (M-H) routes may be susceptible to compound fatigue risk, but sources of fatigue in M-H operations have not been robustly quantified. In an anonymous survey, airline pilots working M-H rosters were asked to rank, on a scale of 0 to 10, the level of fatigue they experience from 40 separate factors across four domains: 1) circadian; 2) environmental; 3) operational; and 4) psychosocial, with higher scores indicating more fatigue. Pilots also reported habitual sleep duration. N=223 pilots (90 Captains; 133 First Officers; mean age: 43±9 years) completed the survey. Pilots rated circadian factors as most fatiguing on average (6±1), followed by factors in the psychosocial and environmental domains (both 5±1), and finally, the operational domain (4±2). Pilots reported sleeping seven hours on average; sleep was not significantly related to fatigue ratings (all p>0.05). Operational fatigue factors related to higher work volume (e.g., working longer hours, shorter breaks, etc.) were rated as more fatiguing. Schedules features that impinge on the window of circadian low (e.g., early starts, late ends) were fatiguing even in M-H pilots with daytime schedules that allow for sufficient sleep duration.
Assessing Mineral and Metal Resources in Life Cycle Assessment: An Overview of Existing Impact Assessment Methods
Authors: Jabara Marco , Wu Junzhang , De Franceschi Saverio , Manzardo Alessandro
Published: December 2024

Mineral resources and metals are integral to modern society, with growing demand driven by recent technological advancements. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) provides a valuable framework for assessing resource use, and numerous methodologies have been developed to address both midpoint and endpoint levels of life cycle impact assessment (LCIA). This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing LCIA methodologies related to minerals and metals, with a focus on recent developments, progress made, and potential future directions. It examines these LCIA methods in terms of resources considered, underlying assumptions, data sources and identified limitations. Particularly, a central focus is placed on Rare Earth Elements (REEs), designated as critical raw materials by the European Union and other regions or governments. These REEs are mainly used in electrical and electronic components (e.g. electric vehicle motors) and in various renewable energy technologies (e.g. wind turbines) due to their unique properties that make them difficult to substitute. However, their supply is constrained by limited global reserves and their concentration in a few countries. This situation highlights the need for more reliable and accurate data on resource production and recycling. Additionally, this review presents case studies that apply LCIA methods to real-world scenarios, illustrating current capabilities as well as areas where further research and refinement are needed.
Visões sobre a guerra: ethé discursivos e cenas de enunciação no filme documentário Eu era um soldado
Authors: Carvalho Thaisa Pinheiro , Curcino Luzmara
Published: December 2024

Este artigo apresenta como material de análise o filme documentário Eu era um soldado (1971), de Krzysztof Kieslowski e Andrzej Titkow, no qual cinco ex-combatentes do exército polonês rememoram suas últimas experiências na Segunda Guerra Mundial, quando foram atingidos por tropas nazistas e, consequentemente, perderam a visão. Em seus relatos, eles abordam as adversidades que enfrentam desde aquele episódio, falam da recuperação do trauma causado pela cegueira e, finalmente, explicitam suas atuais opiniões sobre as guerras. Nesse contexto, objetiva-se analisar os ethé discursivos, as cenas de enunciação e o discurso cinematográfico presentes nessa obra. Para tanto, esta pesquisa se embasa em teorias da Análise do Discurso e da Análise da Linguagem Cinematográfica, principalmente nas contribuições de Maingueneau (2006, 2011, 2016) relativas a ethos discursivo e cenas de enunciação; Xavier (2005) sobre o discurso cinematográfico; e Plantinga (2005) acerca do gênero filme documentário. Como resultado, conclui-se que a interação entre os ethé discursivos daqueles soldados e as cenas de enunciação construíram um poderoso discurso antiguerra.
CO2 Foam Stabilized by Viscoelastic Surfactant: Effects of Chelating Agents’ Type, pH, and Water Chemistry on Microstructure, Stability, and Rheology of Foam
Authors: Al-Darweesh Jawad , Aljawad Murtada Saleh , Kamal Muhammad Shahzad , Mahmoud Mohamed , Alajmei Shabeeb , Al-Shehri Dhafer
Published: December 2024

This research fully investigates the impact of chelating agent pH, chelating agent’s type, water chemistry, and viscoelastic surfactant (VES) concentration on the rheology and stability of CO2 foam under harsh reservoir conditions. In this regard, a modified high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) foam rheometer and HPHT foam analyzer were implemented to study the foam rheology and stability at 100°C and 1,000 psi. Additionally, the HPHT viscometer and drop shape analyzer were utilized to understand the role of physicochemical properties on the microstructure, stability, and rheology of CO2 foam. First, the role of L-glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid (GLDA) pH on the foam properties and foam rheology was investigated; the results showed that GLDA has a significant effect on the viscosity, stability, and foamability of CO2 foam. The optimum foam viscosity was achieved with a GLDA pH of 3, while the highest stability was attained with a GLDA pH ranging between 4 and 7. The highest foamability was achieved with low GLDA pH (3 to 2) due to the formation of high bubble numbers with uniform fine texture. Second, different chelating agents were considered; low pH GLDA provided the highest foam viscosity and stability among diethylene triamine pentaacetic acid (DTPA) salt and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) disodium salt, while high pH EDTA exhibited the highest foamability. Additionally, three types of water were studied: produced water, sea water, and formation water. The outcomes showed that water salinity significantly impacts the foam formation process, where the formation water presented poor foamability. Finally, the concentration of surfactant has a major effect on the viscosity of CO2 foam; it reached 150 cp at 100/s once the concentration increased to 6 wt%. This study provides a comprehensive understanding of the impact of additives and water chemistry on VES behavior for CO2 foam. Also, the usage of erucamidopropyl hydroxypropylsultain (SURF) is promising for the generation of high stability and foam viscosity at high salinity and high temperature and pressure.
Complexities of Riverfront Development for the Hilly City of Paonta Sahib in India
Authors: Jena Adyasha , Kansal Mitthan Lal
Published: December 2024

The rapid urbanization, industrial growth, and socio-cultural activities along riverbanks in hilly cities are transforming land use and intensifying water infrastructure challenges. Paonta Sahib, a culturally significant town in Himachal Pradesh on the Yamuna River, along the foothills of the Himalayas exemplifies these pressures due to its religious tourism, industrialization, and mining activities. This study explores sustainable riverfront development at Paonta Sahib, addressing socio-cultural, environmental, and technical concerns essential for eco-sensitive urban planning. A SWOT analysis highlights strengths such as Paonta Sahib's strong cultural identity and economic potential, alongside weaknesses like limited water infrastructure and unregulated land use. Opportunities for eco-sensitive zoning and circular economy practices are proposed as strategies to mitigate environmental impacts, with financial projections indicating a 68 million INR annual cost recovery over a 35-year development period. Additionally, pollutant scenario analysis is recommended to support effective water quality management. Findings emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts between local authorities, technical experts, and communities to address the extreme hydrological, environmental, and planning challenges faced by riverbank cities. This balanced approach seeks to enhance Paonta Sahib’s urban identity while preserving ecological integrity, offering a model for sustainable development in similar hilly settlements. The proposed framework aims to guide future policies for resilient riverfront urbanization, emphasizing adaptive planning, community engagement, and infrastructure that support both economic growth and environmental sustainability.
Consistent and Tamper-Proof Acquisition of Automatically Verifiable Forensic Web Evidence
Authors: Cantelli-Forti Alessandro , Longo Giacomo , Lupia Francesco , Russo Enrico
Published: December 2024

The pervasiveness of web-based services has further complicated forensic analysis, as traditional acquisition techniques do not fit with the volatile nature of online evidence.The current best practice approach often suffers from procedural shortcomings and is prone to tampering, which can lead to the dismissal of evidence in legal contexts.This paper introduces a methodology aimed at improving the integrity and admissibility of digital evidence acquired from live web environments. Our proposed approach addresses these issues and adheres to the requirement of international standards by establishing a unified format as a single source of truth, secure timestamping, and enabling automatic verification of integrity and its content, thereby offering more transparency to the involved parties. An extensive evaluation with live acquisition of the top 100 most popular websites indicates that the methodology produces an artifact comparableto state-of-the-art tools with added benefits.
A UAV attitude fusion algorithm based on gradient descent- improved EKF
Authors: Zhao Guiling , Wang Yuan , Liang Weidong , Zhao Hongxing
Published: December 2024

When the UAV is in accelerated motion, the non-gravitational acceleration and body vibration lead to high-frequency errors in the accelerometer acquisition data, which affects the accuracy of the attitude calculation of the UAV. To solve the above problems, a UAV attitude solution fusion algorithm based on gradient descent-improved Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) was designed. Firstly, the gradient descent method is used to solve the sensor data to reduce the error caused by the accelerometer and magnetometer. Secondly, the noise covariance matrix and the non-gravity acceleration function are established to improve the shortcomings of the traditional noise matrix that cannot suppress the interference of non-gravity acceleration. Finally, the gradient descent solution value is used as the measured value of the improved EKF to improve the accuracy and filtering effect of the measured value and realize the attitude update. The experimental results show that in the static experiment, the error of the UAV roll angle is 0.017°. Compared with the gyroscope solving algorithm, EKF algorithm, and complementary filtering algorithm, the accuracy is improved by 0.116°, 0.023°, and 0.058°, respectively. In the dynamic experiment, the attitude error angle of the UAV is less than 0.1°. Compared with the EKF and complementary filtering algorithms, the accuracy is improved by an order of magnitude. The UAV attitude fusion algorithm based on gradient descent-improved EKF can effectively suppress the influencing factors such as non-gravitational acceleration interference and high-frequency vibration of the airframe, and improve the attitude-solving accuracy of the UAV.
Indoor air pollution is related to the house typology, in the South of Vietnam
Authors: Tran Thanh Ngoc , Nguyen Diem K. T. , Tran Thuy T. T. , Hauglustaine Jean-Marie , Michel Olivier , Bouland Catherine
Published: December 2024

Background: Besides tobacco smoke, indoor air pollution can contribute to the risk of chronic respiratory diseases. Numerous indoor pollutants are measurable in the air (including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), volatile organic compounds (VOC), particles <2.5μm (PM2.5)) and in the settled dust (like endotoxin). The objective was to associate pollutants levels with a house typology proposal, in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC).
Methods: In HCMC, the following house types were identified as typical: apartment, tube, rental, rural, and slum. A total of 100 dwellings, including 20 of each type, underwent investigation with a 3M-Quest for 36 hours, measuring temperature/humidity and chemical pollutants. Endotoxin concentration was measured in the house dust, based on a chromogenic Limulus assay.
Results: The results are as follow: In the sample of 100 houses, the mean concentrations measured were 2.37 ppm for CO, 485.10 ppm for CO2, 23.20 µg/m3 for PM2.5, 70.40 ppb for VOC while the indoor temperature and relative humidity were 300C and 60.5%, respectively. The mean dust concentrations of endotoxin were 107.80 EU/mg in the living room, 124.50 EU/mg in the bedroom and 149.10 EU/mg in the kitchen. It was found that endotoxin concentrations, as well as temperature, VOC, CO, and CO2, varied significantly among the dwellings. The rural and slums displayed a higher concentration of endotoxin and PM2.5, indicating a higher risk of airway inflammation. Rural type had reduced levels of CO and VOC. The rent type exhibited higher levels of CO2, suggesting inadequate ventilation. The endotoxin and VOC were low in apartment, suggesting better air quality.
Conclusion: Five typical house types in HCMC featured different levels of air pollutants. In future research, an assessment will be conducted to determine potential health hazards, such as chronic respiratory diseases, associated with inhabiting each type of housing.
Comparison of Physiological and Physical Demands between Small-sided Games and Official Matches in Youth Football Players
Authors: Carril-Valdó Jorge J. , Ferrandis Jordi , Rabaz Fernando Claver , Gil-Arias Alexander , González-Rodenas Joaquín
Published: December 2024

Purpose: this study aimed to compare the physiological and physical demands between two spatial formats of small-sided games (SSGs) and competitive matches in youth football players.
Method: fifteen U14 sub-elite players were monitored using WIMU PROTM devices (Huddle, USA) during competition and training. The training involved two 7 vs. 7 SSGs formats: small (SSGs-S; 132m² per player) and large (SSGs-L; 232m² per player). Variables such as relative maximum heart rate (HRMAX), total distance (TD), high-intensity running distance (HIRD), high-metabolic load distance (HMLD), maximum speed (SpeedMAX), average speed (SpeedAVG), and acceleration distance were evaluated.
Results: repeated measures ANOVA revealed that players covered more TD, HIRD, and HMLD per minute during SSGs-L than in both competition and SSGs-S (p < .01; effect size [ES] = .81, .76, .73, respectively). Competitive matches showed higher SpeedMAX (p < .01; ES = .93) and SpeedAVG (p < .01; ES = .84) compared to SSGs. Both SSGs formats exhibited higher distances covered in accelerations (>2 m/s²) than competitive matches (p < .01; ES = .86).
Conclusion: this study emphasizes the importance for fitness coaches to manipulate pitch size during SSGs to replicate, increase or decrease physiological and physical demands relative to competitive conditions.
Comparison of overall survival of adult and pediatric osteosarcoma patients using the National Cancer Database
Authors: Boyland Ryan , Amin Saber , Shostrom Valerie , Zheng Cheng , Allison Jenna , Lin Chi
Published: December 2024

Background:
Differences in overall survival (OS) between children and adult patients diagnosed with osteosarcoma are poorly understood. The objective of this study is to compare the OS of pediatric and adult patients diagnosed with osteosarcoma, identify prognostic factors associated with OS, and explore factors specifically associated with pediatric patients with osteosarcoma using data gathered from the National Cancer Database (NCDB).
Methods:
Patients >=1 years old and diagnosed with osteosarcoma between 2004 and 2017 were included in the study. Multivariable Cox regression analysis adjusted for gender, race, income, education, place of living, health insurance status, year of diagnosis, stage of cancer, surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy (RT), and immunotherapy was used to assess the association of age with the OS of the patients.
Results:
The analysis included 7,890 patients among whom 2,972 (37.7%) were between 1-17 years old. In the multivariable Cox regression analysis, adult patients had worse OS compared with pediatric patients (HR: 1.90; p<.01). When stratified by treatment type, pediatric patients had better OS in several groups. This includes those who received chemotherapy alone (HR: 0.58, p < .01), surgery alone (HR: 0.48, p < .01), surgery plus chemotherapy (HR: 0.55, p < .01), and those who received no treatment (HR: 0.25, p < .01). There was no significant difference in OS between pediatric and adult patients receiving a combination of chemotherapy, surgery, and RT (HR: 0.66, p = 0.11). In analysis stratified by cancer stage, pediatric patients had better OS compared to adult patients at each stage.
Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that pediatric patients are more likely to be non-white, have insurance, present with unknown/occult stage disease, have poorly differentiated tumors, and receive immunotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgery. Additionally, multivariable Cox regression analysis identified factors associated with improved OS: age, diagnosis between 2011-2015, private insurance, non-metastatic disease, well-differentiated tumors, and receiving chemotherapy or surgery, but not RT.
Conclusion:
Pediatric patients diagnosed with osteosarcoma had better OS compared to their adult counterparts. Pediatric patients had better OS compared to adults when the analysis was stratified by treatment modality and stage of cancer. More research is necessary to delineate the underlying reason for this difference.
Potential Antidiabetic Effects by Alpha-Amylase Inhibition and Free Radical Scavenging Activity of Extracts from Five Medicinal Plants Used in Nigeria
Authors: Abu Thomas , Adedayo Adesola J. , Luma Woquan S. , Ogbole Omonike
Published: December 2024

Background: The cost of managing diabetics and side effects from available synthetic drugs has led to the exploration of the floral diversity for the discovery of potent drug molecules. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the potential antidiabetic effects of alpha-amylase inhibition and free radical scavenging properties of five plant species growing in southwestern Nigeria. Total phenolic content (TPC), 2,2-Diphenyl-1-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), and in vitro alpha-amylase inhibitory activities of the five medicinal plant extracts were evaluated.
Results: The methanol extract of Macaranga barteri leaves (MBL) had the highest TPC (IC50=107.37 mg GAE/g), and free radical scavenging activity (IC50=6.58 μg/mL) as compared to ascorbic acid (IC50=8.39±0.64 µg/mL). It also had the highest α-amylase inhibitory activity (IC50=0.54 µg/mL) when compared to acarbose (IC50=0.68±0.21 µg/mL). From the resulting partitioned fractions, ethylacetate fraction had the highest TPC (IC50=176.81 mg GAE/g) followed by dichloromethane (DCM) fraction (IC50=93.23 mg GAE/g). DCM fraction had the highest free radical scavenging and α-amylase inhibitory activities with IC50=5.17 µg/mL and IC50=0.29 µg/mL respectively. The subfraction C from the DCM fraction using vacuum liquid chromatography showed the highest α-amylase inhibitory activity (IC50=0.35 µg/mL). The molecules including 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, acteoside, kampferol-7-O-glucoside and bastadin 11, respectively, were the major compounds identified from the DCM fraction using high-performance liquid chromatography-ultraviolet-visible detector) (HPLC-UV).
Conclusions: These activities of Macaranga barteri leaves revealed that it could be a potent source of novel anti-diabetic agent. Also, the Nigeria flora could be a veritable source of bioactive leads for drug development.
Renal sarcoidosis: renal pathology guides diagnosis and prognosis
Authors: Liu Aichun , Wang Yina , Yan Yu , Dong Bao , Cai Meishun , Zuo Li
Published: December 2024

Background While many studies have reported renal involvement in sarcoidosis, there is limited description of the pathological manifestations of renal sarcoidosis (RS). This study aimed to investigate the standardized pathological diagnosis of RS while evaluating the relationship among pathology, clinical manifestations, and prognosis.
Methods We conducted a retrospective, single-center study of RS in renal biopsy cases treated in our department between January 2019 and December 2023.
Results We identified 5 patients (4 men, 1 woman; median age 52 years, IQR 36-61 years). Two patients were diagnosed with non-caseating granulomatous interstitial nephritis (GTN), while two patients were diagnosed with tubulointerstitial nephritis without granulomas (TIN), and one patient was diagnosed with acute tubular necrosis (ATN). The grading of tubulointerstitial acute inflammation revealed 2 cases graded as (+++), 2 cases as (++), and 1 case as (-). All 5 cases exhibited an interstitial fibrosis grade of (-). However, in the second renal biopsy following recurrence in case 4, the interstitial fibrosis grade increased to (++). In two patients with GTN, immunohistochemical staining revealed that the infiltrating lymphocytes were predominantly CD4+ T cells, which formed nodular granulomas and were surrounded by CD8+ T cells. A favorable response to steroid therapy was noted in all cases.
Conclusions The pathological manifestations of RS primarily consist of acute TIN with or without granuloma formation. Quantifying the pathological grade is essential for guiding treatment decisions and predicting prognosis.
Immediate implant placement for a single failing maxillary anterior tooth after trauma: a case-series study
Authors: Liang Qian , Chen Xiao , Chen Jingyun , Li Yinyin , Yang Zinan
Published: December 2024

Background:The purpose of this retrospective evaluation was to assess the treatment outcomes following immediate implant placement for a single failing maxillary anterior tooth after trauma. Moreover, both objective and subjective esthetic assessments were conducted.
Methods:Immediate implant placement was performed on thirty-two patients who had a single untreatable, traumatic tooth in the anterior maxilla. At the one-year mark following the final restoration, marginal bone changes, pink/white esthetic scores (PES/WES), and patient satisfaction data were collected. Factors such as age, sex, gingival biotype, thickness of the buccal bone wall, and size of the jumping gap were considered potential influences on the clinical results, with their relationships being examined.
Results: The implant survival rate was 100% after one year of final restoration., with marginal bone changes measuring -0.17 ±0.31 mm mesially and -0.22 ±0.28 mm distally. Additionally, the PES averaged 10.7, whereas the WES averaged 7.3. On the patient side, esthetic satisfaction scored an average of 8.89 on the visual analog scale. Interestingly, no significant correlations were found between potential factors and esthetic scores or patient satisfaction.
Conclusions: In the initial year following the final restoration, immediate implant placement for a single failing maxillary anterior tooth post-trauma demonstrated promising clinical outcomes both objectively and subjectively.
Describing posture on the bike: Do different methods lead to similar
Authors: Bini Rodrigo Rico , Lanferdini Fabio , Diefenthaeler Fernando
Published: December 2024

Purpose
Standardising methods to calculate joint angles is essential to enable the reproducibility of movement analysis in cycling. This study compared three methods for determining lower limb posture on the bike across three positions on the saddle.
Methods
Fourteen non-cyclists were assessed in two laboratory visits. The first involved determining their maximum aerobic capacity which was used in the second visit to define a sub-maximal cycling exercise intensity. Lower limb kinematics were obtained and angles for the hip, knee, and ankle were calculated using three methods (6 o’clock position, Minimum Knee Angle, and the Largest Leg Extension).
Results
Angles obtained at the 6 o’clock position were larger than those at the minimum knee angle and the largest leg extension for the hip (p < 0.01), knee (p < 0.01), and ankle joints (p < 0.01). Knee flexion was greater at the anterior position than the posterior (p < 0.01) and the reference (p < 0.01), with larger angles for the reference than the posterior (p < 0.01). The ankle was more dorsiflexed at the anterior vs. posterior positions (p < 0.01), anterior vs. reference positions (p < 0.01), and references vs. posterior positions (p < 0.01).
Conclusion
All three methods were sensitive to detect changes in saddle position but data should not be interchanged due to differences in angles between methods.
The efficacy analysis of robotic versus laparoscopic ipsilateral uretero-ureterostomy for upper urinary tract duplications in pediatric population
Authors: YU BIN , fan yingzhong
Published: December 2024

Objective
To review and compare robot-assisted ipsilateral ureteroureterostomy (RALUU) and laparoscopic ipsilateral uretero-ureterostomy (LUU) in terms of efficacy and outcomes.
Methods
Clinical data of 65 children with complete renal ureteral duplication deformity admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University from January 2015 to December 2022 were collected. Among these, 42 patients underwent laparoscopic ureteroureterostomy (LUU), designated as the LUU group, while 23 patients received robot-assisted laparoscopic ureteroureterostomy (RALUU), designated as the RALUU group. We compared the two groups regarding surgical duration, intraoperative blood loss, postoperative drainage duration, length of hospital stay, changes in anterior-posterior diameter (APD) of the affected renal pelvis pre- and postoperatively, changes in ureteral diameter, and alterations in renal function.
Results
The postoperative drainage duration (Z = 2.375, P = 0.024) and length of hospital stay (t = 2.142, P = 0.038) were shorter in the RALUU group compared to the LUU group, with statistically significant differences. However, there were no statistically significant differences in surgical duration (t=-1.465, P = 0.153) and intraoperative blood loss (Z = 1.679, P = 0.097) between the two groups. Complications occurred in three patients in the LUU group (two cases of anastomotic stricture and one case of stump syndrome), while no long-term complications were reported in the RALUU group, with no significant difference between the groups (χ²=0.482, P = 0.488). Both groups exhibited a tendency for improvement in APD, ureteral diameter (UD), and differential renal function (DRF) pre- and postoperatively. However, further analysis revealed that changes in APD (ΔAPD, t=-1.132, P = 0.284), DRF (ΔDRF, Z = 1.865, P = 0.073), and UD (ΔUD, t = 1.562, P = 0.064) did not show statistically significant differences between the two groups.
Conclusion
Both RALUU and LUU are safe and effective treatments for children with complete renal ureteral duplication anomalies. Compared to LUU, RALUU is associated with shorter postoperative drainage duration and hospital stay.
The Impact of Marriage on Breastfeeding Duration: Examining the Disproportionate Effect of COVID-19 Pandemic on Low-Income Communities
Authors: Kihlstrom Anna Charlotta , Stiller Tara , Sultana Nishat , Njau Grace , Schmidt Matthew , Stepanov Anastasia , Williams Andrew D.
Published: December 2024

Background. Marriage promotes breastfeeding duration through economic and social supports. The COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately affected marginalized communities and impacted women's employment and interpersonal dynamics. This study examined how marital status affects breastfeeding duration across socioeconomic and racially minoritized groups during COVID-19, aiming to inform social support strategies for vulnerable families in public health crises.
Methods. Data were drawn from the 2017-2021 North Dakota Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System(weighted n=41433). Breastfeeding duration was self-reported, and 2-, 4-, and 6-month duration variables were calculated. Marital status(married, unmarried) and education ($48,000) and race/ethnicity (White, American Indian, Other) were self-reported. Infant birth date was used to identify pre-COVID(2017-2019) and COVID(2020-2021) births. Logistic regression estimated odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals for the association between marital status and breastfeeding duration outcomes. Models were fit overall, by COVID-19 era and by demographic factors. Lastly, demographic-specific models were further stratified by COVID era. Models were adjusted for maternal health and sociodemographic factors.
Results. Overall, married women consistently had 2-fold higher odds of breastfeeding across all durations during both pre-COVID and COVID eras. Pre-COVID, marriage was a stronger predictor for all breastfeeding durations in low-income women (4-month duration OR4.07,95%CI 2.52,6.58) than for high-income women (4-month duration OR1.76,95%CI 1.06,2.91). Conversely, during COVID, marriage was a stronger predictor of breastfeeding duration for high-income women (4-month duration OR 2.89,95%CI1.47,5.68) than low-income women (4-month duration OR 1.59,95%CI0.80, 3.15). Findings were similar among American Indian women and those with less than high school education, in that both groups lost the benefit of marriage on breastfeeding duration during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion. Marriage promotes breastfeeding duration, yet the benefit of marriage was reduced for low-socioeconomic and racially minoritized populations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Policies like paid parental leave and enhanced access to lactation consultants could help mitigate disproportionate impacts during public health crises. Continued research examining how major societal disruptions intersect with social determinants to shape breastfeeding outcomes can inform more equitable systems of care.
The relationship between genetic variation in Aquaporin-4, sleep quality measures and Alzheimer’s disease-related phenotypes.
Authors: Laws Simon , Porter Tenielle , Armstrong Ayeisha Milligan , O'Brien Eleanor , Doré Vincent , Bourgeat Pierrick , Turner Mitchell , Maruff Paul , Rowe Christopher , Brown Belinda , Villemagne Victor , Rainey-Smith Stephanie
Published: December 2024

Genetic variants within the Aquaporin-4 gene (AQP4) have been associated with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) diagnosis, rate of cognitive decline, and brain amyloid-β (Aβ) burden. Additionally, AQP4 variants have been reported to moderate the relationship between sleep and brain Aβ burden. As yet, the impact of interactions between AQP4 variants and sleep on other AD-related phenotypes, and measures of disease progression, remains largely unexplored. The current study sought to assess relationships between AQP4 variants, self-reported sleep measures, and AD-related phenotypes, including cognition, brain Aβ burden, and brain volumetrics, in a cohort of cognitively unimpaired individuals at an increased risk of AD due to brain Aβ accumulation. Analyses used data from the Australian Imaging, Biomarkers and Lifestyle (AIBL) study. When assessing the relationship between AQP4 variants and sleep components, several associations were observed. Specifically, AQP4 variants were both directly, and in interaction with sleep latency and overall quality, associated with cross-sectional and longitudinal Aβ burden, however these associations did not survive correction for multiple testing. When assessing effects on cognition, AQP4 variants were associated directly, as well as in interaction with sleep disturbances and duration, with several cognitive domains both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. Finally, AQP4 variants were associated directly, and in interaction with sleep duration, latency and overall quality, with regional brain volumes, both cross-sectionally and longitudinally. The findings from this study provide further evidence for the relationship between AQP4 genetic variation and AD-related phenotypes, as well as for the interaction between sleep and these genetic variants.
Analysis of risk factors and development of prediction model for improvement of ejection fraction in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy after percutaneous coronary intervention: a case control study
Authors: Su Lifang , Fu Xianghua , Wang Yanbo , Jiang Yunfa , Fu Yang , Wang Qing , Zhi Wei , Li Yi , Guan Zhengkun , Gu Xinshun
Published: December 2024

Background: There is a lack of relevant studies investigating left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) improvement in patients with ischemic cardiomyopathy (ICM) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). This study aimed to investigate the factors influencing LVEF improvementafter PCI in patients with ICM.
Methods: This single-center, retrospective study included consecutive patients diagnosed with ICM who underwent PCI at the Second Hospital of Hebei Medical University between January 2019 and March 2024. Patients were categorized into two groups based on changes in LVEF. The improved LVEF group included patients with ≥10% improvement, whereas the other group included patients who exhibited <10% improvement or deterioration. Clinical data were compared between the two groups. Univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess factors affecting LVEF improvement, and nomogram prediction model for 6-month improvement in LVEF were developed based on logistic regression.
Results: Overall, 123patients were enrolled in our study, with 52 patients showing ≥10% improvement and 71 patients showing <10% improvement or deterioration. Patients in the improved LVEF group were significantly more likely to have a lower prior myocardial infarction (MI), left ventricular end-diastolic dimension (LVEDD), left ventricular end-diastolic volume (LVEDV), and moderate or severe mitral regurgitation (MR) compared with the non-improved LVEF group. A nomogram predictive model was developed based on prior MI，LVEDD，LVEDV and moderate or severe MR, the AUC of the model is 0.734, indicating good discriminatory ability. The calibration curve and decision curve analysis show that the model has good consistency and clinical application value. Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified two independent factors for LVEF improvement: prior MI and moderate or severe MR.
Conclusions: Prior MI, higher LVEDD, higher LVEDV, and moderate or severe MR were not conducive to LVEF improvement. The model based on prior MI, higher LVEDD, higher LVEDV, and moderate or severe MR have good predictive value for LVEF improvement. Prior MI and moderate or severe MR were independent risk factors for LVEF improvement in patients with ICM.
Activating the AMPK-p53 Axis by Mitochondrial Impairment: Unveiling a Novel Anti-Liver Cancer Mechanism of Sulfane Sulfur
Authors: Zheng Xue , Luo Yuhua , Huo Rui , Wang Yiwen , Chen Youbang , Chen Mianrong , Zhao Qi , Li Kexin , Zhang Hanyi , Li Xiaotong , Li Xiang , Zhang Hui , He Zaopeng , Huang Li , Yang Chun-tao
Published: December 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most prevalent form of primary liver cancer, notoriously refractory to conventional chemotherapy. Historically, sulfane sulfur-based compounds have been explored for the treatment of HCC, but their efficacy has been underwhelming. We recently reported a novel sulfane sulfur donor, PSCP, which exhibited improved chemical stability and structural malleability. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PSCP on HCC and elucidate the underlying mechanisms. We utilized bioinformatics algorithms for clustering, function enrichment, feature screening and survival analysis on proteomic data from the Cancer Proteome Atlas (CPTAC) and transcriptomic data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The impact of PSCP on HCC were assessed in vitroand in vivo, focusing on the expression and activity of p53 and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), as well as mitochondrial function. The molecular target of PSCP was identified using Autodock, and binding interactions were visually analyzed. Sulfur metabolism was found to be reprogrammed in HCC, with downregulation of sulfur-related pathways correlating with poor patient prognosis. PSCP treatment significantly inhibited HCC tumor growth in an allograft model, reduced cell viability and proliferation, and induced apoptosis. PSCP potently increased p53 expression and induced AMPK phosphorylation in SNU398 HCC cells. AMPK suppression diminished PSCP-induced p53 upregulation. PSCP also impaired mitochondrial function by inhibiting mitochondrial respiratory complex I. The supplementation of ATP significantly countered PSCP-induced SNU398 cell injury. Our findings suggest that the reprogramming of sulfur-related metabolic pathways is pivotal in HCC. PSCP presents as a promising therapeutic strategy by activating the mitochondrial-AMPK-p53 signaling axis.
Enhanced Photocatalytic Performance of Fe3O4/Phthalhydrazide/Chitosan Composites for Tetracycline Degradation
Authors: kakhki Roya Mohammadzadeh , Atarodi hamidreza
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the photocatalytic performance of two novel nanocomposites, Fe3O4/chitosan and Fe3O4/phthalhydrazide/chitosan, for the degradation of tetracycline (TC) under visible light irradiation. The synthesized photocatalysts were characterized using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) to confirm their structural and morphological properties. The isoelectric point (pHiep) of the Fe3O4/phthalhydrazide/chitosan composite was determined to be 9.2, indicating optimal electrostatic stability. Photocatalytic tests revealed that the Fe3O4/phthalhydrazide/chitosan composite exhibited significantly higher degradation efficiency, achieving 88% removal of TC after 120 minutes, compared to 53% for the Fe3O4/chitosan composite. The effect of catalyst dose on photocatalytic activity was also examined, with optimal performance noted at 0.01 g to 0.02 g catalyst concentration. Additionally, the influence of TC concentration on degradation efficiency was analyzed, highlighting decreased photocatalytic activity at higher concentrations due to competitive adsorption on active sites. Mechanistic studies utilizing scavengers indicated the involvement of reactive species, which further elucidated the degradation pathways of tetracycline. Overall, the incorporation of phthalhydrazide into the Fe3O4/chitosan composite significantly enhanced its photocatalytic efficiency, providing a promising approach for environmental remediation of pharmaceutical pollutants. The findings underscore the importance of optimizing catalyst design and operating conditions to improve the efficacy of photocatalytic processes in wastewater treatment applications.
Research on the spatiotemporal distribution characteristics of the CO 2 gas concentration and water–gas interface exchange flux in deep and large reservoirs in the upper reaches of the Yellow River
Authors: Wu Wei , Hou Zhuo , Li Chen , Chen Hang , Ren Lei , Xu Sheng
Published: December 2024

Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions has become one of the most important concerns, and relatively few systematic studies have been conducted on the source‒sink relationships of GHGs and their influencing factors in deep reservoirs. To characterize the dissolved CO2 in the water column at different periods in deep and large reservoirs and to reveal CO2 exchange processes at the water‒gas interface, three typical deep and large reservoirs in the upper Yellow River section of the Longyangxia‒Liujiaxia River, namely, Longyangxia, Lijiaxia, and Liujiaxia, were selected as the study objects, and the hydrochemical equilibrium method and thin boundary layer diffusion model (TBL model) were adopted to estimate the CO2 dissolved concentration (pCO2) and interfacial exchange flux (FCO2). The results revealed that (1) the mean values of pCO2 in the Long-Liu reservoirs in the upper reaches of the Yellow River were 765.00 ± 385.58 µatm (stratification period) and 739.00 ± 305.01 µatm (mixing period), and the mean values of FCO2 were 12.27 ± 15.13 mmol/(m2·d) (stratification period) and 9.11 ± 8.01 mmol/(m2·d) (mixing period). (2) Influenced by the carbonate balance of the water column, pCO2 was regulated mainly by water temperature (WT), dissolved oxygen (DO), alkalinity (Talk) and DOC. (3) The pCO2 and FCO2 values of three typical deep and large reservoirs in the upper Long-Liu section of the Yellow River had obvious spatial and seasonal variations, and all of them were manifested as sources of atmospheric CO2. This study provide theoretical support for the study of greenhouse gas emissions from reservoir aquatic ecosystems under the influence of hydropower development.
Breast-NEOprAIdict: a deep learning solution for predicting pathological complete response on biopsies of breast cancer patients treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy
Authors: Valderrama Natalia Fernanda , Morel Louis-Oscar , Mweze Daniel Tshokola , Derangère Valentin , Desmoulins Isabelle , Mayeur Didier , Kaderbhai Courèche , Ilie Silvia , Hennequin Audrey , Roussot Nicolas , Bergeron Antony , Beltjens Françoise , Pescia Carlo , Morel Henri-Philippe , Coutant Charles , Arnould Laurent , Vinçon Nathan , Ladoire Sylvain
Published: December 2024

In precision medicine, predicting tumor chemosensitivity is crucial for providing optimal treatment to cancer patients. This study introduces Breast-NEOprAIdict, a deep learning model aimed at predicting pathological complete response (pCR) in early breast cancer (eBC) patients treated with standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). This prediction is based on an analysis of the initial tumor diagnostic biopsy. We used two extensive cohorts (total n = 1140 patients) spanning various molecular subtypes of eBC (HER2-amplified (HER2+), estrogen-receptor positive/HER2 non amplified (ER+/HER2-), and triple-negative (TN) tumors): the PRIMUNEO prospective cohort (n = 500) for training and internal validation and the CGFL Breast Cancer Neoadjuvant database (n = 640) for external validation. Breast-NEOprAIdict demonstrated good performance on the external validation dataset for HER2 + tumors (Area Under the Curve (AUC): 0.652 (P = 0.001), Odds Ratio (OR): 2.42 (P = 0.0131)), ER+/HER2- tumors (AUC: 0.814 (P = 0.003), OR: 20.56 (P = 0.00413)) and TN tumors (AUC: 0.677 (P = 0.001), OR: 3.44 (P = 0.00373)) compared to standard clinicopathological features. We also evaluated the robustness of our algorithm through testing on several scanned sections per patient. Breast-NEOprAIdict exhibited strong consistency in the external validation cohort, with a Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.933 (P < 0.001) for HER2+, 0.932 (P < 0.001) for ER+/HER2- tumors, and 0.939 (P < 0.001) for TN. Breast-NEOprAIdict is a new tool for identifying eBC that are differentially sensitive to standard NAC and could help to select the most appropriate treatment strategy in HER2+, ER+/HER2- and TN eBC.