bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis of hematological parameters in bladder cancer in early and advanced stages at Dr. Sardjito Hospital
Authors: Hardi Hidayu Permata , Soerohardjo Indrawarman , Hendri Ahmad Zulfan
Published: July 2023

Background: Bladder cancer (BC) is the tenth most common cancer in both males and females. Early detection can improve the patient's chances of survival, giving patients with BC a good prognosis. The hematological parameter determines the number of leukocytes, hemoglobin, platelets, and Neutrophil-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR) in the body. The presence of abnormal values on hematological parameters indicates that the patient is in poor condition.Objective: This study aims to compare hematological parameters between early-stage and advanced BC at Dr. Sardjito Hospital.Methods: This study was a retrospective cross-sectional study using patient medical records. By using the results of the anatomical pathology, pre-operative hematology evaluated the influence on the bladder cancer stage. The sample used consisted of 130 bladder cancer patients. Chi-square and regression statistical tests were used to analyze the collected data.Results: The advanced-stage group had considerably higher leukocytosis than the early-stage group (p = 0.000). Anemia predominated more in the later-stage group than in the earlier stage (p = 0.048). Additionally, the advanced-stage group experienced thrombocytosis more frequently than the early-stage group (p = 0.000). NLR was higher in the advanced compared to the early-stage group (p = 0.000).Conclusion: Patients with advanced bladder cancer were more likely to experience abnormal hematological parameters levels than those with the earliest stages of the disease.
Functional outcome in knee osteoarthritis after dextrose prolotherapy intervention: A severity-based pilot study
Authors: Waluyo Yose , Artika Sari Rajwani , Wahyuni Insani Nanda , Adnan Endy , Budu  , Bukhari Agussalim
Published: July 2023

Background: Osteoarthritis currently remains a significant health problem due to its high prevalence and morbidity rate. Radiological examination is still used as a gold standard to determine the severity of knee osteoarthritis by using Kellgren-Lawrence grading. Dextrose prolotherapy has been known to be effective in treating pain in knee osteoarthritis, but none has compared the efficacy between mild and moderate-severe knee osteoarthritis. Objective: This study aims to compare the effectiveness of prolotherapy based on its radiological and symptomatic severity in knee osteoarthritis.Methods: In this pre-post study, the participants who underwent dextrose prolotherapy injection (25% intra-articular and 15% periarticular) for three sessions with four weeks intervals were grouped into mild (grade 1-2) and severe (grade 3-4) groups. Participants’ functional status was measured with Western Ontario and McMaster Universities’ arthritis index scores at baseline and week 12.Results: A total of 21 patients (average age 61.42 ± 8.33, BMI 26.81± 3.72) received three therapy sessions. Both groups had significantly better Western Ontario and McMaster Universities arthritis index scores than baseline (-22.57± 11.9; p = 0.002 and -15.42 ± 15.75; p = 0.003). All parameters were improved significantly (p <0.05) in both groups, except the stiffness score (p = 0.292; p = 0.057). There were no differences in functional outcome improvements in both groups (p > 0.05; CI 95%: -21.3 – 7.05).Conclusion: Prolotherapy effectively improves functional outcomes in all stages of knee osteoarthritis.
Growth hormone administration and exercise combination increase serum IGF-1 levels in perimenopausal wistar rats
Authors: Arsani Ni Luh Kadek Alit , Sundari Luh Putu Ratna
Published: July 2023

Background: Growth hormone (GH), Insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and exercise play a crucial role in female reproductive function. At the perimenopausal age, there is a decrease in GH, estrogen, and testosterone levels. In previous studies, the impact of physical activity on serum IGF-1 levels in geriatric was inconsistent and needed further investigation. Objective: The purpose of this study was to look into the effect of GH and exercise on serum IGF-1 levels in perimenopausal Wistar rats. Methods: It is an experimental study with a randomized posttest-only control group design using 24 perimenopausal Wistar rats aged 14 months as the sample. The control rats (C) were given 0.1 ml of distilled water subcutaneously every day for 30 days. Treatment group 1 (T1) rats swam for 30 minutes at a time five times per week. Meanwhile, rats of T2 were given 0.016 IU/0.1ml GH daily injection subcutaneously only for 30 days and T3 were given combination both of GH injection in same dose and swam for 30 minutes at a time 5 times a week for 30 days Data analysis used One-Way ANOVA.Results: The finding revealed that the mean serum IGF-1 levels in the T3 (588.50 84.04 ng/mL) were significantly higher than the control (242.03 ± 46.08 ng/mL), T1 (334.23 ± 75.90 ng/mL) and T2 (428.69 ± 95.10 ng/mL). Conclusion: Our study shows that GH administration and exercise combination increases levels of IGF-1 serum higher than only administrated GH or exercise.
Genome Analysis of Bacteriophage (U1G) of Schitoviridae, Host Receptor Prediction using Machine Learning Tools and its Evaluation to Mitigate Colistin Resistant Clinical Isolate of Escherichia Coli In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Sundaramoorthy Niranjana Sri , KU Vineetha , Nair Veena , Bharathi Kavi , JBB Jean Sophy Roy , R Malarvizhi , Srikanth Sneha , S Santhosh Kumar , Sankaran Prakash , Mohan Suma , Nagarajan Saisubramanian
Published: July 2023

The objective of the present study is to isolate phages targeting multidrug resistant (MDR), extended spectrum beta lactamase (ESBL) positive clinical isolate of E. coli ( U1007), sequence and analyze the phage genome and use machine learning tools to predict host cell surface receptor and finally evaluate the efficiency of monophage and phage cocktail in vitro and in vivo in a zebrafish model. Phage specific for E. coli U1007 was isolated from Ganges River (designated as U1G), Cuoom River (designated as CR) and Hospital waste water (designated as M phage). The obtained phages were triple purified and enriched. U1G phages had a greater burst size of 124 PFU/cell and a latent time of 25 min.M phage had a burst size of 150 PFU/cell with a shortlatent time of 20min. Similarly CR phage has a short latent 20 min and a burst size of 115 PFU/cell. Based on capsid architecture, U1G phage resembles Podoviridae, CR phage is structurally similar to Myoviridae and M phage has morphology that resembles Siphoviridae. Genome sequencing and analysis revealed that the size of the U1G phage genome is 73275 bp Whereas that of CR phage and M phage are 45236 bp and 45294 bp, respectively. All three genomes were marked by the absence of genes encoding tRNA sequence, antibiotic resistant or virulent genes. A machine learning (ML) based multi-class classification model using algorithms such as Random Forest, Logistic Regression, and Decision Tree were employed to predict the host receptor targeted by all 3 phages and the best performing algorithm Random Forest predicted LPS O antigen , LamB or OmpC for U1G FhuA, OmpC for CR phage and FhuA, LamB, TonB or OmpF for the M phage as the host receptor targeted by the receptor binding protein (RBP) of the phages. In vitro time kill assay showed that treatment with monophages alone and along with colistin resulted in regrowth whereas phage combinations significantly reduced the regrowth and by 24h the phage cocktail along with colistin produced a significant 3 log declinein cell counts relative to the untreated control. In vivo intramuscular infection study in zebrafish showed that phages were non toxic and a cocktail of dual (U1G +M) phage along with colsitin resulted in a significant 3.5 log decline in cell counts whereas triple phage combination along with colistin resulted in 3 log decline in cell counts probably due to host receptor competition. Our study highlights the potential of phage cocktail therapy in mitigating MDR clinical isolate of E. coli in vitro and in vivo.
X-linked Gusher Disease DFNX2 in Children, a Rare Inner Ear Dysplasia with Conductive Hearing Loss
Authors: Dasgupta Soumit , Hong James , Morris Rhyanna , Iqbal Javed , Lennox Amy , Saniasiaya Jeyasakthy
Published: July 2023

Conductive hearing losses are typically present in disorders of the external/middle ear. However, there is a rare group of inner ear conditions called third windows that can also generate a conductive hearing loss. This is due to an abnormal connection between the middle and the inner ear or between the inner ear and the cranial cavity. X-linked gusher disorder is an extremely rare congenital inner ear dysplastic syndrome with such an abnormal connection due to a characteristic incomplete cochlear partition type 3 and an incomplete internal auditory meatus fundus. The disorder is inherited in an X-linked fashion due to the mutation of the POU3F4 gene. We present 2 siblings diagnosed with the condition and their long term follow ups. They both presented with audiovestibular symptoms and showed progressive mixed losses and bilateral vestibular weakness. They were treated with cochlear implant, digital amplification and with vestibular rehabilitation. Significant others around them were involved in their journey with the medical team and in both, a very favourable outcome was achieved. This is the first time that we are reporting evolving audiovestibular function with vestibular quantification in X-linked gusher disorder and emphasize on the multidisciplinary holistic approach to manage these children effectively.
Neurological outcome and respiratory insufficiency in intramedullary tumors of the upper cervical spine
Authors: Goloshchapova Kateryna , Goldberg Maria , Meyer Bernhard , Wostrack Maria , Butenschoen Vicki Marie
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives: Intramedullary spinal cord tumors (IMSCT) are rare entities. Especially, a location in the upper cervical spine as a highly eloquent region carries the risk of postoperative neurological deficits, such as tetraparesis or respiratory dysfunction. Evidence for respiratory dysfunction is scarce. The aim of this study was to describe the early and late postoperative clinical course of this highly eloquent tumours.
Patients and Methods: This is a single-centre retrospective cohort study. We included 35 patients with IMSCT at levels of craniocervical junction to C4 who underwent surgical treatment between January 2008 and December 2022. The authors analysed the patients' preoperative status, tumour- and surgery-specific characteristics, and follow-up functional status.
Results: The study cohort included 22 patients with grade II ependymoma (62.9%), 2 low-grade astrocytomas (5.7%), 2 glioblastomas (5.7%), 6 hemangioblastomas (17.1%), 2 metastases (5.7%), and 1 patient with partially intramedullary schwannoma (2.9%). Gross total resection was achieved in 76% of patients. Early dorsal column related symptoms and motor deterioration occurred in 64% and 44% of patients, respectively. At a follow-up of 3.27 ± 3.83 years, 43% and 33% of patients preserved postoperative sensory and motor deterioration, respectively. The median McCormick Scale grade was 2 in the preoperative and late postoperative periods, respectively (p=0.0897, α=0.05). Only two out of 35 patients (5.7%) developed new intermittent respiratory dysfunction, of whom two were transient. There were no surgery-related deaths.
Conclusions: The surgery of IMSCT of the upper cervical spine could be performed without major procedure-related risk. Roughly a half of the patients develop new neurological deficit in the immediate postoperative period. However, most of the patients still maintain functional independence. The rate of respiratory insufficiency is low and is strongly influenced by the rapid neurological deterioration in high-grade tumours.
Aspartame Safety as a Food Sweetener and Related Health Hazards
Authors: Shaher Shurooq Asaad Abdulameer , Mihailescu Dan Florin , Amuzescu Bogdan
Published: July 2023

Aspartame is the methyl-ester of the aspartate-phenylalanine dipeptide. Over time it became a very popular artificial sweetener. However, since its approval by the main food safety agencies, several concerns have been raised related to neuropsychiatric effects and neurotoxicity, due to its ability to activate glutamate receptors, as well as carcinogenic risks by increased production of reactive oxygen species. Within this review we critically evaluated reports concerning the safety of aspartame. Some studies evidenced subtle mood and behavioral changes upon daily high-dose intake below the admitted limit. Epidemiology studies also evidenced associations between daily aspartame intake and higher predisposition for malignant diseases like non-Hodgkin lymphomas and multiple myelomas, particularly in males, but association by chance still could not be excluded. While the debate over the carcinogenic risk of aspartame is ongoing, it is clear that its use may pose some dangers in peculiar cases, such as patients with seizures or other neurological diseases; it should be totally forbidden for patients with phenylketonuria, and reduced doses or complete avoidance are advisable during pregnancy. It would be also highly desirable for every product containing aspartame to clearly indicate on the label the exact amount of the substance and some risk warnings.
Recent Advances in Temporomandibular Joint Surgery
Authors: Wroclawski Catherine , Mediratta Jai Kumar , Fillmore Willam Jonathan
Published: July 2023

Temporomandibular disorders (TMD) affect a high percentage of children and adults worldwide. Surgery may be indicated in severe or recalcitrant case. Several recent advancements in the TMD and temporomanidbular joint (TMJ) surgery have elevated understanding and ability to treat affected patients. We discuss recent advances in TMD epidemiology, juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) of the TMJ, and surgical techniques and technologies. Technical advancements have been identified in TMJ arthroscopy, treatment of TMJ subluxation and dislocation, and extended prosthetic total TMJ reconstruction (eTMJR). Overall, this review provides valuable insights into significant recent advancements of TMJ disorders and their surgical management.
Study on Electrochemical Behavior of Pyrite Oxidation in Alkaline Electrolyte
Authors: Huang Yehao , Jia Zipei , Wang Wen , Yao Jia , Gao Runbo , Xu Laifu , Zhang Hongtao , Zhang Yongsheng , Song Xiangyu
Published: July 2023

Nowadays, the world's refractory gold ore production accounts for about 30% of the world's total gold, such gold concentrate leaching rate is low, seriously limiting the efficient use of gold resources. The alkaline preoxidation process can improve the leaching rate of this kind of gold deposit, and has a good development and application prospect. So, it is of great significance to study the oxidation and dissolution behavior of pyrite in alka-line environment. In this paper, the oxidation process of gold-bearing pyrite in alkaline electrolyte was studied by electrochemical techniques, and the oxidation products of pyrite electrode in alkaline solution were characterized by XPS，SEM and other analytical methods. The results show that the optimum pH for pyrite electrochemical oxidation dissolution is about 12, and oxidation potential of pyrite should be above 0.8 V. In that proces of alkaline oxidation dissolution of pyrite, part of S element enters the electrolyte in the form of Sx2-, S2O32-, SO32-and SO42-, and a small amount of S element is adsorbed on the surface of the electrode in the form of S0 and becomes a part of the passive layer. Fe element is adsorbed on the surface of electrode in the form of Fe(OH)2, Fe2O3 and Fe2(SO4)3, which becomes the main component of passivation layer. This study provides a theoretical basis and reference data for the chemical preoxidation treatment of sulfide ores.
The Impact of Prenatal Environmental Tobacco Smoking (Ets) and Exposure on Chinese Children: A Systematic-Scoping Review
Authors: Ye Huazhen , Yang Xiaoyu , Hanna Fahad
Published: July 2023

Background: There is considerable evidence to support the association between environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) exposure and children’s burden of disease. However, literature on the health outcomes of prenatal ETS exposure among Chinese children has not yet been comprehensively reviewed. Objective: This systematic scoping review examines the currently available evidence and identifies gaps for further research on the health consequences of prenatal ETS exposure among Chinese children. Methods: Following the JBI scoping review methodological framework, we conducted a computer-aid search of three electronic databases-- PubMed, EBSCOhost, and ProQuest to include studies from January 2011 to May 2023 that addressed the health outcomes of Chinese children whose mothers were exposed to ETS at any stage of the pregnancy. Further, a methodological quality assessment of the selected articles was conducted, using JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists.
Results: A total of 30 articles were reviewed, including eleven high-quality studies and nineteen moderate-quality studies. Five main themes, including hypertension, foetal and children’s development, behavioural disorders, respiratory outcomes, and other health outcomes. Majority of studies showed positive link between prenatal ETS exposure and increase risk of preterm birth, and moderately, foetal growth restriction. Few studies explored other potential adverse outcome of ETS, including hypertension, respiratory morbidity, lung function and asthma in their children.
Conclusion: The current available evidence on prenatal ETS exposure in Chinese children has unveiled a wide range of health outcomes, including preterm birth, foetal development, behavioural disorders and much more. However, Chinese studies in this area are still lacking and a gap still exists in relation to the strength of association between prenatal ETS exposure and some health risks. Efficient anti-smoking policies and smoking cessation programs should be developed to promote maternal and child health. Further research is also needed to provide better evidence in this field.
A Comprehensive Review on Nanotechnology (NT) for a Sustainable Development and Future
Authors: Tokas Rajat , Bhardwaj Laxmi Kant , Kumar Naresh , Jindal Tanu
Published: July 2023

Since a few decades, the world has been facing severe global challenges with context to water, food, agriculture science, energy resources, healthcare, medicines, diseases, etc. One of the causes of these challenges is excessive human activities. So, there has arisen a necessity to tackle these challenges using sustainable solutions so as to minimize the effect of human interference. Nanotechnology (NT) has gained pace as a new technique that provides cost-effective, efficient, and eco-friendly solutions to such challenges. The advantages of the usage of NT have increased in every field of science. As compared to traditional methods, NT possesses wider use and benefits as it is designed at the nano levels and also keeps the environment clean. It is the science of tiny particles that has an important role to play in international efforts in sustainability. The innovation of NT is revolutionary and therefore subsequently will cover a wider space in terms of scientific achievements. Technology saves time, money, and human resources. This paper discusses and highlights the usage of NT with respect to its application, knowledge, and sustainable development. It also gives a broad view of the approaches, properties, and applications of NT in various sectors including the treatment of water bodies, agricultural science, drug delivery systems, medicines, and energy saving.
Dynamic Probabilistic Risk Assessment of Commercial-Off-The-Shelf Drones in Nuclear-Contaminated Search and Rescue Missions
Authors: Earthperson Arjun , Diaconeasa Mihai A.
Published: July 2023

This paper presents a limited scope dynamic probabilistic risk assessment (D-PRA) on the survivability of commercial of the shelf (COTS) drones tasked with surveilling areas with varying radiation levels after a nuclear accident. The D-PRA is based on a discrete-dynamic event tree (D-DET) approach, which couples with the OpenEPL error propagation framework to model sequences leading to Loss of Mission (LOM) scenarios due to component failures in the drone’s navigation system. Radiation effects are simulated by calculating the total ionizing dose (TID) against the permissible limit per component, and errors are propagated within the electronic hardware and software blocks to quantify navigation system availability per radiation zone. The proposed methods are integrated into the traditional event tree/fault tree approach and the most vulnerable components are radiation-hardened (RAD-HARD) to the extent specified by a predefined mission success criterion. The results demonstrate the usefulness of the proposed approach in performing trade studies for incorporating COTS components into RAD-HARD drone designs.
Beyond the Epidermal-Melanin-Unit: The Human Scalp Anagen Hair Bulb Is Home to Multiple Melanocyte Subpopulations of Variable Melanogenic Capacity
Authors: Casalou Cristina , Mayatra Jay M. , Tobin Desmond J.
Published: July 2023

The visual appearance of humans derives significantly from our skin and hair color. While melanin from epidermal melanocytes protects our skin from the damaging effects of ultraviolet radiation, the biological value of pigmentation in the hair follicle, particularly in the scalp, is less clear. In this study, we explore the heterogeneity of pigment cells in the human scalp anagen hair follicle bulb, a site conventionally viewed to be focused solely on pigment production for transfer to the hair shaft. Using c-KIT/CD117 microbeads, we isolated bulbar c-KIT-positive and c-KIT-negative melanocytes. While both subpopulations expressed MITF, only the c-KIT-positive fraction expressed SOX10. We further localized bulbar melanocyte subpopulations (expressing c-KIT, SOX10, MITF, and DCT) that exhibited distinct/variable expression of downstream differentiation-associated melanosome markers (e.g., gp100 and Melan-A). Localization of a second ‘immature’ SOX10 negative melanocyte population, which was c-KIT/MITF double positive, was identified outside of the melanogenic zone in the most peripheral/proximal matrix. These studies describe an approach to purifying human scalp anagen hair bulb melanocytes, allowing us to identify unexpected levels of melanocyte heterogeneity. The function of the more immature melanocytes in this part of the hair follicle remains to be elucidated. Could they be in-transit migratory cells destined to synthesize mela-nin ultimately or could they contribute to the hair follicle in non-melanogenic ways.
Selection of A New Biasing Parameter for the Jackknife Kibria-Lukman Estimator for the Negative Binomial Regression Model
Authors: E Oranye Henrietta , O Adejuwon Samuel , C Arum Kingsley , I Ugwuowo Fidelis , E Ugah Tobias , M Adegoke Taiwo , B Sule Omeiza
Published: July 2023

The negative binomial regression model (NBRM) is a generalized linear model which relaxes the restrictive assumption by the Poisson regression model when the variance is equal to the mean. The estimation of the parameters of the NBRM is obtained using the maximum likelihood (ML) method. Maximum likelihood estimator becomes unstable when the explanatory variables are linearly dependent, a situation known as multicollinearity. Based on this, we developed a new estimator called modified jackknifed Negative Binomial Kibria-Lukman (MJNBKL) estimator for the radiation of multicollinearity in NBRM using four different biasing (shrinkage) parameters. We establish superiority condition for MJNBKL estimator over the ones. The performance MJNBKL estimator was ascertained by comparing it with the existing ones through a Monte Carlo simulation study and two real life application datasets. The results of the simulation and real life application show that MJNBKL estimator outperformed the other estimators compared with by having the smallest MSE across all sample sizes and for different levels of correlation for the four biasing parameters used and the third biasing parameter is the optimal shrinkage parameter with the lowest MSE.
Evaluation of the Results of Pesticide Residue Analysis in Food Sampled between 2017–2021.
Authors: Ambrus Árpád , Vásárhelyi Adrienn , Ripka Géza , Szemáné-Dobrik Henriett , Szenczi-Cseh Júlia
Published: July 2023

As required by the EU legislation and the national risk management duties, the pesticide residues were determined by four specialized laboratories in 9,924 samples taken from 119 crops of economic importance and imported foodstuffs during 2017-2021 in Hungary. The screening method applied covered 622 pesticide residues as defined for enforcement purposes. The limit of detection ranged between 0.002-0.008 mg/kg. The 1.0% violation rate was lower than in the European Union for all commodities. No residue was detectable in 45.9% of the samples. For detailed analyses of the results, eight commodities (apple, cherry, grape, nectarine/peach, sweet peppers, and strawberry) were selected as they were analyzed over 195 samples and contained most frequently residues. Besides testing their conformity with national MRLs, applying 0.3MRL action limits for pre-export control, we found that 73% of the sampled lots would be compliant with ≥90% probability based on second independent sampling. Multiple residues (2-23) in one sample were detected in 36-50% of the tested lots. Noting the provisions of integrated pest management and the major pests and diseases of selected crops, normally 3-4, exceptionally 7-9 active ingredients of different mode of actions should be sufficient for their effective and economic protection.
The Influence of Emotional Regulation on Sleep Habits of Spanish Children and Adolescents Through the Lens of Parents
Authors: Costa-López Borja , Lavigne-Cerván Rocío , Collado-Valero Joshua A. , Mier Rocío Juárez-Ruiz de , Navarro-Soria Ignasi
Published: July 2023

Background: Previous research studies have suggested the importance of studying the relationship between emotional regulation and sleep habits. Some investigations have especially focused on how emotional regulation could impact sleep habits in children and adolescents. Therefore, these researchers have stated there exists a two-way direction in this relationship. Objective: This study aimed to analyze the influence of emotional regulation on sleep habits in Spanish children and adolescents, and the mediating role of anxiety in this relationship. Method: Participants were 953 Spanish parents who completed the assessment protocol according to their children and adolescents’ information. Results: The results revealed moderate-strong correlations between emotional regulation problems and sleep habits disturbances (r=0.375, p<0.001), trait (r=0.488, p<0.001) and state (r=0.589, p<0.001) anxiety. Also, emotional regulation showed a direct impact on sleep habits (β=0.011, p=0.005). Trait and state anxiety demonstrated a significant mediating role in the relationship between emotional regulation and sleep habits. Conclusions: Emotional regulation may have an impact on sleep habits during childhood and adolescence, suggesting the importance of early intervention focused on the emotions management and the prevention of sleep habits disturbances.
Multiple Porcine Innate Immune Signaling Pathways Are Involved in the Anti-pedv Response
Authors: Zhang Youwen , Xu Yulin , Jiang Sen , Sun Shaohua , Zhang Jiajia , Luo Jia , Cao Qi , Zheng Wanglong , Chen Nanhua , Meurens Francois , Zhu Jianzhong
Published: July 2023

Porcine epidemic diarrhea virus (PEDV) has caused great damage to the global pig industry. The innate immunity plays a significant role in resisting viral infection, however, the exact role of innate immunity in the anti-PEDV response has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we observed that various porcine innate immune signaling adaptors are involved in the anti-PEDV activity. Among these, TRIF and MAVS showed the strongest anti-PEDV activity. The endogenous TRIF, MAVS and STING were selected for further examination of anti-PEDV activity. Agonist stimulation experiments showed that TRIF, MAVS and STING signaling all have obvious anti-PEDV activity. The siRNA knockdown assay showed that TRIF, MAVS and STING are also all involved in anti-PEDV response, and their remarkable effects on PEDV replication were confirmed in TRIF-/-, MAVS-/- and STING-/- Vero cells. For further verification, the anti-PEDV activity of TRIF, MAVS and STING could be reproduced in porcine IPEC-DQ cells. In summary, this study reveals that multiple pattern recognition receptor (PRR) signaling pathways of porcine innate immunity play an important role in the anti-PEDV infection, providing new and useful antiviral knowledge for prevention and control of PEDV spreading.
Manipulator Control System Based on the Flexible Sensor Technology
Authors: Chen Jian , Wang Chunfang , Chen Jingxin , Yin Binfeng
Published: July 2023

With the development of artificial intelligence technology, manipulators, as an important part of the work of intelligent robots, can replace humans to perform various complex tasks. In recent years, there have been many studies on the remote control of manipulators using various control technologies. Starting from the manufacturing materials of flexible sensors used for manipulators, this paper introduces the base materials, sensing materials, and flexible electrode materials of flexible sensors, respectively, and summarizes the performance of flexible sensors made based on the characteristics of different materials. The basic principles of dipping and coating, lithography, inkjet printing, screen printing, 3D printing and so on are introduced from the perspective of flexible sensor manufacturing process. Some different functions of sensors achieved by different structural designs, such as: tensile cracking, microchannels, etc. are also introduced. Then, from the perspective of recognition accuracy of the manipulator, two kinds of control methods based on flexible sensor by data glove control and surface EMG control are classified and introduced, and the problems existing in three aspects of flexible sensor material preparation, manufacturing process and control series design are summarized. Finally, the possible future research directions in this field are suggested.
Splicing Measurement and Compensation of Straightness Errors for Ultra-Precision Guideways
Authors: Zhou Lian , Zheng Nan , Li Jie , Yuan Zhigang , Wang Jian , Fang Fei , Xu Qiao
Published: July 2023

The straightness error of guideway is one of the key indicators of ultra-precision machine, which plays an important role in the machining accuracy of work-piece. In order to measure straightness error of long distance ultra-precision guideway accurately, a splicing measurement for straightness error of guideway using high-precision flat mirror and displacement sensor was proposed in this paper, and the data splicing processing algorithm based on coordinate transformation was studied. Then comparative experiments on splicing measurement and direct measurement of straightness error were carried out on a hydrostatic guideway grinder. The maximum difference between the two measurements was about 0.3μm, which was far less than the straightness error of 5.8μm. The experiment demonstrated the correctness of the proposed splicing measurement method and data processing algorithm. To suppress the influence of straightness error on machining accuracy, a straightness error compensation algorithm based on error rotation transformation and vertical axis position correction was proposed, and the grinding experiment of a plane optics with size of 1400mm×500mm was carried out, whose flatness error after grinding was about 2.98μm. The straightness error of the grinding machine had been well suppressed.
Exercise-Induced Arrhythmia or Munchhausen Syndrome in a Marathon Runner?
Authors: Gajda Robert , Drygas Wojciech , Gajda Jacek , Kiper Pawel , Knechtle Beat , Kwaśniewska Magdalena , Sterliński Maciej , Biernacka Elżbieta Katarzyna
Published: July 2023

A 36-year-old professional marathon runner reported sudden heart palpitations occurring during competitions, with heart rates (HR) of 230 bpm recorded on sports HR monitor (HRM) over 4 years. These episodes subsided upon the cessation of exercise. Electrocardiograms, echocardiography, and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging results were borderline for athlete's heart. Because an electrophysiology study and standard exercise tests provoked no arrhythmia, doctors suspected Munchhausen syndrome. Ultimately, an exercise test that simulated the physical effort during a competition provoked tachyarrhythmia consistent with the HRM readings. This case demonstrates the diagnostic difficulties related to exercise-induced arrhythmia and the diagnostic usefulness of sports HRMs.
Optimizing Extraction Condition and Characterization the Structural and Physical property of the Alginate Pretreated by High-pressure Homogenization
Authors: Zhang Xiu , Chen Jianrong , Shao Xuezhi , Li Hongliang , Jiang Yongqiang , Zhang Yunkai , Yang Dengfeng
Published: July 2023

In this study, we had investigated the use of high-pressure homogenization (HPH) as a novel pretreatment method for the extraction of sodium alginate (SA) from Laminaria japonica. Our results demonstrated that under optimal condition of 100 MPa HPH pressure, 4 cycles, pH 6.0, and 0.5% ethylene diaminetetra acetic acid tetrasodium salt (EDTA) concentration (w/v) for 3.0 hours, the extraction yield of HPH reached 34%, which was higher than that achieved by previous methods such as complex enzyme hydrolysis (CE), ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), and complex enzyme-ultrasonic combined method (CE-UC). To further characterize the extracted SA, we conducted a comprehensive analysis using SEM, FTIR, MRS, NMR, XRD, TGA, and T-AOC assay. Our findings revealed the following: 1) HPH treatment significantly disrupted the structure of L. japonica cells and reduced their crystallinity to 76.27%, the lowest among all pretreatment samples; 2) the extracted SA had a greater tendency to form elastic gels; and 3) the antioxidant activity of HPH-extracted SA reached 0.02942 mgVceq∙mg-1, which was the highest among all tested methods. Based on these results, we concluded that HPH extraction not only increased the yield of SA but also enhanced its antioxidant activity.
IQGAP1 Promotes Early B Cell Development, Is Essential for the Development of Marginal Zone (MZ) B Cells, and Is Critical for Both T-Dependent and T-Independent Antibody Responses
Authors: Lella Ravi K , Malarkannan Subramaniam
Published: July 2023

IQGAP1 is a multi-functional scaffold protein. However, its role in B cell development and function is not known. Here, we demonstrate Iqgap1mice contained significantly increased numbers of B220+ B, B220+IgM pro/pre-B, and B220+IgM+ immature-B cells in the bone marrow. Here, we show IQGAP1 as the essential scaffold that regulates early B cell development and function. Iqgap1mice contained significantly increased numbers of B220+ B, B220+IgM pro/pre-B, and B220+IgM+ immature-B cells in the bone marrow. New-forming and follicular B cell numbers were increased, while the marginal zone B cell numbers were significantly reduced in the spleen of the Iqgap1mice. Lack of IQGAP1 reduced T-dependent and T-independent humoral responses. Mechanistically, the lack of IQGAP1 considerably decreased the phosphorylation of Mek1/2, Erk1/2, and Jnk1/2. B cells from Iqgap1mice failed to suppress IL-7R-mediated activation of Stat5a/b, an essential step for cell-cycle exit and initiate light-chain recombination, leading to a reduction in RS rearrangement frequency. Lack of IQGAP1 resulted in a significant reduction of IRF4 and IRF8 in BM B cells. Our study provides the first evidence that IQGAP1-based signalosome is essential for the development and functions of B cells.
Blood Sampling Protocol Changes to Reduce the Sampling Amount in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit: A Quality Improvement Project
Authors: Jung Nayoung , Kim Chan , Kim Hanna , Hwang Jieun , Yang Misun , Ahn So Yoon , Sung Se In , Chang Yun Sil
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: This study aimed to evaluate whether the implementation of a modified blood sampling protocol, which focused on need-based laboratory testing and minimized venous sampling by replacing it with point-of-care testing (POCT) via capillary puncture, successfully reduced iatrogenic blood loss, incidence of anemia, and frequency of blood transfusion in extremely low birth weight infants (ELBWIs) without negatively affecting neonatal outcomes. (2) Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 313 ELBWIs of gestational age (GA) between 23 and 28 weeks, born between 2013 and 2019. The infants were divided into two groups: before (period I) and after (period II) the implementation of the modified blood sampling protocol in January 2016. Propensity score matching was conducted to minimize selection bias. Clinical data, including the frequency and amount of blood sampling, frequency and volume of blood transfusion, and clinical characteristics, such as gestational age, birth weight, and neonatal outcome data, were collected and compared between the two groups. (3) Results: No significant differences in the GA or birth weight between the two periods were observed. The total sampling volume during a month after birth (16.7 ± 4.1 mL vs. 15.6 ± 4.4 mL, P=0.03) and total sampling volume during hospital days (51.4 ± 29.7 mL vs. 44.3 ± 27.5 mL, P=0.04) in period II were significantly lower than that in period I. There were no differences in the mortality or morbidity between the two periods. Although the transfusion frequency and amount did not have significant differences between the periods, we observed a positive correlation between the transfusion frequency and sampling volume (coefficient: 0.09, 95% CI: 0.08–0.11). (4) Conclusions: The modified blood sampling protocol effectively reduced the iatrogenic blood loss without negatively affecting the neonatal outcomes.
Design and Experiment of the Combined Machine for Trans-planting Outcrop of Codonopsis with Micro Ridge Cov-ered with Film
Authors: Shi Binghong , Sun Wei , Zhao Zhiwei , Wang Hucun , Zhang Luhai , Zhang Hua , Li Hui , Liu Xiaolong , Liu Pengxia
Published: July 2023

In response to the problem of no supporting equipment for the cultivation of Codonopsis in the hilly and mountainous areas of northwest China, a combined machine for transplanting outcrop of Codonopsis with micro ridge covered with film is designed. The key components of the prototype are analyzed and designed, and the structures and working parameters of the seedbed preparation device, seedling casting device, rotary tillage soil-covering device, film covering device, seedling head burial and film edge soil-covering device are determined. The transmission system scheme is established, and the working mechanism of the core components is analyzed. Field experiments show that when the target seedling spacing is 4.4cm and the machines moves forward at the speed of 0.1, 0.15, and 0.2m/s, the variation coefficient of planting spacing and the qualification rate of planting depth all meet the standard requirements. The qualified rate of planting posture and film side outcrop are greatly affected by the operating speed of the machine, and decrease with the increase of operating speed. When the operating speed reaches 0.1m/s, the average variation coefficient of planting spacing is 0.08%, the average qualified rate of planting depth, planting posture and film side outcrop is 95.83%, 94.17% and 93.33% respectively, which shows that the operating performance is better than that of the operating speed of 0.15m/s and 0.2m/s. This study provides new reference for the theoretical research and design of mechanized and automated transplanting machinery for Codonopsis seedlings.
Numerical Investigation of a Combustible Polymer in a Rectangular Stockpile: A Spectral Approach
Authors: Adeosun Adeshina T , Ukaegbu Juel C. , Lebelo Ramoshweu S.
Published: July 2023

Despite the immense application of combustion in reactive materials, one of the challenges people are facing globally is the auto-ignition of such materials, resulting in fire and explosion hazards if proper measures are not considered. To avoid this unfortunate occurrence, a mathematical model describing the thermal decomposition of combustible polymer material in a rectangular stockpile is formulated. A nonlinear momentum equation is provided with the assumption that the combustible polymer follows Carreau constitutive relation. The chemical reaction of the polymer material is assumed exothermic; therefore, Arrhenius’s kinetic theory is considered in the energy balance equation. The bivariate spectral local linearization Scheme (BSLLS) is utilized to provide a numerical solution for the dimensionless equations governing the problem. The obtained results are validated by the collocation weighted residual method (CWRM) and a good agreement is achieved. Dimensionless velocity, temperature, and thermal stability results are presented and explained comprehensively with suitable applications.
Four Siblings with Osteopetrosis and Pyloric Stenosis and Three Cousins with Osteopetrosis
Authors: AL-Harbi Fahad Mishal , Bazie Elsharif A , Al-Hausa Marwah Ali , Al-Omar Lamyaa , Al-draye Tasneem H
Published: July 2023

Osteopetrosis incidence is less than 1:200,000 birth in most populations (Worth, 1963) . It's more common in consanguineous people as it's unusual in two members of the same family. The defined treatment for Osteopetrosis is Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). With a 73% five years disease-free survival in donors.
The incidence of Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is 1 in 300–900 newborns. Hypertrophic pyloric stenosis is due to hypertrophy of the smooth muscle of the pyloric sphincter. The classic age of occurrence is the first few months of life, and the classic presentation is non-bilious projectile vomiting after feeding.
We reported a four family members with Osteopetrosis and Pyloric stenosis and their three cousins with Osteopetrosis, which is a very rare presentation and association.
Airspace Diameter Map – a Quantitative Measurement of All Pulmonary Airspaces to Characterize Structural Lung Diseases
Authors: Blaskovic Sanja , Anagnostopoulou Pinelopi , Borisova Elena , Schittny Dominik , Donati Yves , Haberthür David , Zhou-Suckow Zhe , Mall Marcus A. , Schlepütz Christian M. , Stampanoni Marco , Barazzone-Argiroffo Constance , Schittny Johannes C.
Published: July 2023

(1) Background: Stereological estimations significantly contributed to our anatomical and physiological understanding of the lung by providing an average distribution of measured parameters over the entire lung parenchyma. However, most structural lung diseases show a very inhomogeneous pattern of alterations. (2) Methods: We developed a novel protocol for the analysis of all pulmonary airspaces. Our pipeline starts with high-resolution synchrotron radiation-based X-ray tomographic microscopy (SRXTM) and consists of (i) image segmentation with the combination of the free machine-learning tool Ilastik and ImageJ and (ii) calculation of the airspace diameter distribution of an entire lung using a diameter map function. To evaluate the new pipeline, lungs from adult mice with cystic fibrosis (CF)-like lung disease (ENaC-transgenic mice) or mice with elastase-induced emphysema were compared to healthy controls. (3) Results: We were able to show the distribution of airspace diameters throughout the entire lung, as well as separately for the conducting airways and the gas-exchange area. In the pathobiological context, we observed an irregular widening of parenchymal airspaces in mice with CF-like lung disease and elastase-induced emphysema. Comparable results were obtained when analyzing lungs imaged with μCT, suggesting that our pipeline is applicable to different kinds of imaging modalities. (4) Conclusions: We conclude that the airspace diameter map is well suited for a detailed analysis of unevenly distributed structural alterations in chronic muco-obstructive lung diseases such as cystic fibrosis and COPD.
Cross-pollinating Quantum Computing and Machine Learning for the Solution of Parameterized Problems in Computational Science and Engineering
Authors: Atzarakis Konstantinos , Kalogeris Ioannis , Stavroulakis George , Papadopoulos Vissarion
Published: July 2023

The potential of quantum computing for scientific and industrial breakthroughs is immense, however, we are still in the Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) era, where the currently available quantum devices contain small numbers of qubits, are very sensitive to environmental conditions and prone to quantum decoherence. Even so, existing NISQ computers have already been shown to outperform conventional computers on specific problems and the key question is how to make use of today’s NISQ devices to achieve quantum advantage in the field of computational science and engineering (CSE). In this direction, this work proposes a hybrid computing formulation by combining quantum computing with machine learning for accelerating the solution of parameterized linear systems in NISQ devices. In particular, it focuses on the Variational Quantum Linear Solver (VQLS), which is a hybrid quantum- classical algorithm for solving linear systems of equations. VQLS employs a short-depth quantum circuit to efficiently evaluate a cost function related to the system solution. The algorithm’s circuit consists of a quantum gate sequence (unitary operators) that involves a set of tunable parameters. Then, well-established classical optimizers are utilized to tune the parameters of the sequence in order to minimize the cost function, which is equivalent to finding the system solution at an acceptable level of accuracy. In this work, it is demonstrated that machine learning tools such as feed-forward neural networks and nearest-neighbor interpolation techniques can be successfully employed to accelerate the convergence of the VQLS algorithm towards the optimal values for the circuit parameters when applied to parameterized linear systems that need to be solved for multiple parameter instances.
Artificial Intelligence and Sensor Technologies in Dairy Livestock Export: Charting a Digital Transformation
Authors: Neethirajan Suresh
Published: July 2023

This critical review illuminates the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and sensor technologies in the dairy livestock export industry, an area facing mounting pressure for heightened efficiency and sustainability. We rigorously scrutinize the uptake of these novel technologies in identifying 'shy feeders,' automating weight monitoring of individual livestock, and refining cattle enumeration procedures. The investigation unravels their capacity to bolster animal welfare standards, minimize supply chain discrepancies, and amplify operational productivity. Moreover, the research delves into how these innovations may enhance market access and competitiveness in a swiftly shifting global dairy landscape. We further highlight the challenges encountered and future trajectories, providing a strategic framework for technology integration within the livestock export sector. Ultimately, this review underlines the importance of adopting AI and sensor technologies, indicating a shift towards precision digital livestock farming that amalgamates efficiency, animal welfare, and profitability.