bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agonistic behavior of the neotropical cricket Eidmanacris meridionalis Desutter Grandcolas, 1995 (Orthoptera: Phalangopsidae)
Authors: Macarini Leanna Camila , Zefa Edison , Souza-Dias Pedro Guilherme Barrios , Szinwelski Neucir
Published: July 2024

The examination of agonistic behavior in Neotropical crickets provides insight into the intricate strategies they employ to establish dominance. This study focuses on Eidmanacris meridionalis, a non-stridulating species belonging to the Phalangopsidae family. Through observations of male-male encounters, we outline a sequence of behaviors, encompassing environmental and opponent recognition, agonistic conflict, and the determination of dominance and submission. Our observations unveil a diverse repertoire of agonistic behaviors, including body lifting, fighting, and biting, indicating the presence of complex communication and conflict resolution mechanisms. Antennal signaling and body size assessment likely serve as crucial factors in these interactions. Moreover, we note submissive males displaying behaviors akin to females during copulation, hinting at a potential interconnection between mating competition and agonistic interactions. These behaviors not only shape social hierarchies but also exert influence over reproductive success and survival. This study underscores the significance of ethological research in unraveling the intricacies of cricket biology and ecology while posing intriguing avenues for future investigations.
Robotic purse-string suture technique for intracorporeal anastomosis using double- stapling technique in robotic resection of rectal and sigmoid colon cancer: A retrospective study
Authors: Hiraki Masayuki , Yanagisawa Kiminori , Ikeshima Ryo , Hata Taishi , Arita Asami , Katsuyama Shinsuke , Shinke Go , Kinoshita Mitsuru , Ohmura Yoshiaki , Sugimura Keijiro , Masuzawa Toru , Takeda Yutaka , Murata Kohei
Published: July 2024

Background: Robotic three-dimensional magnified visual effects and field of view stabilization have enabled precise surgical operations. Intracorporeal anastomosis in colorectal cancer surgery is expected to shorten operation times, avoid paralytic ileus, and shorten wound lengths; however, few studies have reported on intracorporeal anastomosis in left-sided colorectal cancer surgery. Herein, we introduce a simple, novel procedure for using robotic purse-string suture (RPSS) in intracorporeal anastomosis with the double-stapling technique in rectal and sigmoid cancer surgery and report short-term outcomes.
Methods: From September 2022 to April 2024, 105 consecutive patients underwent robotic surgery with double-stapling technique anastomosis for rectal or sigmoid colon cancer at our institution. Their data were retrospectively analyzed. Intracorporeal anastomosis with the double-stapling technique using RPSS was performed in 26 patients (the RPSS group), while the double-stapling technique anastomosis with extracorporeal anvil fixation was performed in 79 patients (the EC group).
In the RPSS group, after tumor-specific or total mesorectal excision, specimens were extracted from the umbilical wound with simultaneous anvil placement in the body cavity. The oral colonic stump was robotically excised and robotically circumferentially stitched with 3-0 Prolene in all layers. After anvil insertion into the stump, the bowel wall of the colon was completely sewn onto the central rod of the anvil. Reconstructions were anastomosed using the double-stapling technique.
Results: Twenty-six patients successfully completed surgery using RPSS. The RPSS group had significantly less bleeding and shorter umbilical wound lengths than the EC group. Super-low anterior resection in the RPSS group had shorter total operative times than those in the EC group (p=0.06). The RPSS group experienced no perioperative complications greater than Clavien–Dindo grade III or any anastomosis-related complications.
Conclusions: The RPSS technique can be performed safely without any anastomosis-related complications and tends to reduce the total operative time in super-low anterior resection through total robotic surgery. This may be a useful, less-invasive modality for robotic colorectal surgery.
Clinical characteristics and risk factors of poor prognosis in children with complicated acute hematogenous osteomyelitis treated with Vaccum Sealing Drainage
Authors: Guo Jiale , Wei Feng , Song Baojian , Zhu Danjiang , Wen Yuwei , Wang Qiang
Published: July 2024

Background
This study aims to analyze the clinical characteristics of children with complicated acute hematogenous osteomyelitis treated with vacuum sealing drainage (VSD) in our institution, and to explore the risk factors for poor prognosis.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was performed on the medical records of patients diagnosed with acute hematogenous osteomyelitis from December 2015 to December 2022. The demographic profiles, treatment procedures, examination results, and follow-up information of the patients were meticulously recorded. Patients were categorized into two groups based on the occurrence of treatment failure, deformity, limb length discrepancy, growth arrest, osteonecrosis, chronic osteomyelitis, pathological fracture, chondrolysis, and recurrence: good prognosis group and poor prognosis group. The clinical features and laboratory data of the two groups were investigated by univariate and multivariate analysis to find the independent risk variables impacting the prognosis. The performance of the regression model was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.
Results
A total of 150 patients who met the inclusion criteria were followed up for an average of 3.4 years (range: 1.0–7.0 years). There were 31 patients (21%) in the poor prognosis group. In all cases, after 7 days of continuous saline irrigation and 2 surgical debridement, 75% of the infections were completely controlled, and the local abscess disappeared in 86% of the patients. By regression analysis, leukocyte admission (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.2; 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.0–1.4]; P = 0.04), first postoperative C-reactive protein level (aOR 1.04; 95% (CI), [1.0–1.07], P = 0.034), time to diagnosis of osteomyelitis (aOR 1.3; 95% (CI), [1.1–1.6], P = 0.012), and days of fever with antibiotics (aOR 1.5; 95% (CI), [1.1–2.2], P = 0.024) were independent risk factors for poor outcomes. The four variables combined to construct an efficient prediction model, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.85.
Conclusion
The innovative application of vacuum sealing drainage technology in the management of complicated patients with substantially localized abscesses achieved significant efficacy, while one-third of children still had unfavorable outcomes. High-risk groups with recurrence and sequelae necessitate regular follow-up and even long-term orthopedic intervention.
Very-Large-Scale Reconfigurable Intelligent Surfaces for Dynamic Control of Terahertz and Millimetre Waves
Authors: Kocabas Coskun , Malevich Yury , Ergoktas M. Said , Bakan Gokhan , Steiner Pietro
Published: July 2024

Unlocking the potential of terahertz (THz) and millimetre (mm) waves for next generation communications1–4 and imaging 5,6 applications requires reconfigurable intelligent surfaces (RIS) with programmable elements that can manipulate the waves in real-time7. Realization of this technology has been hindered by the lack of efficient THz electro-optical materials and THz semiconductor platform. Here, by merging graphene-based THz modulators and the thin-film transistor (TFT) technology, we demonstrate mega-scale spatial light modulator arrays with individually addressable subwavelength pixels. We demonstrate electronically programmable patterns of intensity and phase of THz light over a large area with unprecedent levels of uniformity and reproducibility. To highlight the potential of these devices, we demonstrate a single pixel mm-wave camera capable of imaging metallic objects. We anticipate that these results will provide realistic pathways to structure THz waves for applications in non-invasive THz imaging and next generation THz communications.
Measuring Clinical Learning Environment across three residency programs using a Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM) scale at a tertiary care hospital in the United Arab Emirates
Authors: AlBisher Nouf , AlAmeri Fayeza , Detera Dolhyt , Heena Humariya
Published: July 2024

Background The Clinical Learning Environment Review (CLER) is used to evaluate the quality of education and the learning environment for hospital trainees for enhanced patient safety and healthcare quality. The focus areas include practical application of theoretical knowledge, acquisition of clinical skills, and development of problem-solving abilities. Continuous assessment, regular evaluation, and targeted interventions are needed to ensure an environment that supports effective learning and professional development.
Methods Participants from three residency programs at a Military Hospital in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), were evaluated as per three PHEEM domains with areas of improvement. After study approval, the PHEEM questionnaire was administered online platform after informed consent, with slight modifications for cultural inclusivity and relevance.
Results Data analysis was done using SPSS Statistics Version 22.0. with the Mann-Whitney U test and the Kruskal-Wallis H test, and a p < 0.05. Majority of the trainees were males and Emergency Medicine residents. Perceptions of role autonomy and perceptions of teaching had a mean score of 38.7 (out of 52) and 45.9 (out of 60), respectively, indicating a generally positive outlook, while perception of social support had a mean score of 33.0 (out of 44). Likewise, the total mean study score was 117.7 out of 156. The mean scores for all items ranged from 2.51±1.03 to 3.31±0.58. Areas of improvement were identified for collaboration with other doctors in the same year, while trainees were mostly satisfied with good quality accommodation for junior doctors on call. The results revealed no significant variations in the scores across different strata, although a slightly higher perception of social support was noted among female students. Overall, this study provides insights into the perceptions of the training environment, shedding light on potential areas for improvement in the professional and educational environment at a tertiary care hospital in the Middle East.
Clinical Trial Number
Not applicable.
Insights on Carica papaya L. proteomic, ultrastructural and physiological changes associated with pre-flowering-related tolerance to papaya sticky disease
Authors: Rodrigues Silas P. , Soares Eduardo de A. , Sá-Antunes Tathiana F. , Maurastoni Marlonni , Broetto Sabrina G. , Nunes Lucas E. C. , Verçoza Brunno R. F. , Buss David , Silva Diolina M. , Rodrigues Juliany C. F. , Ventura José A. , Fernandes Patricia Machado Bueno
Published: July 2024

The development of Papaya Sticky Disease (PSD), caused by the papaya meleira virus (PMeV) complex, only occurs after flowering, suggesting the presence of tolerance mechanisms during the transition from juvenile to adult papaya plants (C. papaya). In this study, 1,609 leaf proteins of C. papaya were quantified using a label-free strategy. Differentially accumulated proteins—38, 130, 160, and 17 at 3, 4, 7, and 9 months post-germination, respectively—indicated modulation of biological processes at each development phase, mainly involving photosynthesis and cell wall remodeling. Juvenile C. papaya plants infected with the PMeV complex showed an accumulation of photosynthetic proteins. Correspondingly, chlorophyll fluorescence results suggested enhanced efficiency in photosystem (PS) II and PSI energy flux in these plants. In parallel, pre-flowering plants exhibited a reduction in cell wall-degrading enzymes, followed by an accumulation of proteins involved in the synthesis of wall precursors post-flowering. These findings, combined with ultrastructural data on laticifers, suggest that C. papaya struggles to maintain the integrity of laticifer walls, ultimately failing to do so after the juvenile-adult transition and resulting in latex exudation, thereby supporting initiatives for the genetic improvement of C. papaya to enhance resistance against the PMeV complex.
The role of the behavioral immune system in the expression of short and long-term orientation in young Chilean men during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Figueroa Oriana , Polo Pablo , Torrico-Bazoberry Daniel , Fajardo Gabriela , Sickert Carlos Rodríguez- , Valenzuela Nohelia , Arenas Abigail , Pavez Paula , Belinchon Montserrat , Valdebenito Gabriela , Muñoz-Reyes Jose Antonio
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically changed people's lives. It had consequences at the individual and social level, changing the way we relate to each other. The behavioral immune system predicts that certain constraints will exist in different aspects of sociality when faced with the risk of contagion from pathogens. In this paper, we examine the hypotheses specifically evaluating changes in the sociosexuality of young men. We compared data from two studies carried out by the laboratory team before and during the pandemic (in-person and online data by Qualtrics®). We reached an N = 879 young men who answered a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Multidimensional Sociosexual Orientation Inventory. The results we obtained point to a significant decrease in long-term sociosexual orientation but not in short-term sociosexual orientation, as we had predicted. In addition, we found a reduction in sociosexual desire (measured as sexual fantasies) and differences in sociosexual behavior (number of partners in the last year) between the period before the pandemic and the pandemic itself. In addition, we carry out analyses with a reduced sample to test our hypotheses based on the perception of contagion risk (measured by a survey from OMS). We find changes are maintained at the level of sociosexual desire and sexual behavior but mostly in those individuals with a greater perception of the risk of contagion. The hypotheses derived from the behavioral immune system regarding the decrease in sociosexuality in a context of risk of contagion by pathogens, as was the case in the initial period of COVID-19, are corroborated only in terms of desire and behavior, which suggests a certain stability in attitudes. These findings will allow us to understand better how sociosexuality is affected when there are contexts of high risk of contracting a pathogen such as COVID-19.
Comparison of the effects of intraperitoneal magnesium sulphate and bupivacaine with that of bupivacaine alone on the duration of postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic sterilisation : A prospective observational study
Authors: ZACHARIAH SUNITHA KILIYILETHU , VARKEY RITHU
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims: Pain may cause postoperative pulmonary morbidity and protracted recovery in laparoscopic sterilisation. Apart from parenteral analgesics, intraperitoneal instillation of local anaesthetics and NMDA receptor antagonist, MgSO4 may be tried for better pain relief. This study was aimed to evaluate the postoperative pain relief of intraperitoneal MgSO4 with bupivacaine compared to bupivacaine alone in patients undergoing laparoscopic sterilisation and assess its safety.
Methods : Seventy females undergoing laparoscopic sterilisation were divided into two groups. Group B received 40ml 0.25% bupivacaine and group MB received 40ml 0.25% bupivacaine and magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) 30 mg kg-1 intraperitoneally at the end of the surgery. Postoperative pain was assessed using verbal numeric pain rating scale (NPRS). Duration of postoperative analgesia, total analgesic consumption, hemodynamics, and adverse effects were assessed for 12 hours postoperatively.
Results Duration of postoperative analgesia was prolonged in group MB (7.1142.259h) compared to group B (3.086h) (P =0.000). Pain scores were significantly lower in group MB in 1st, 2nd and 3rd hour postoperatively (P =0.000 – 0.001). Total paracetamol consumption in first 12h postoperatively in group MB was lower (0.714gm) compared to group B (1.343gm) (P < 0.001).
Conclusions Intraperitoneal instillation of bupivacaine with MgSO4 is an excellent mode of postoperative analgesia for laparoscopic sterilisation.
S100A8/A9 innate immune signaling as a distinct mechanism driving progression of smoking-related breast cancers
Authors: Desgrosellier Jay , Mugisha Samson , Baba Shahnawaz , Labhsetwar Shreyas , Dave Devam , Zakeri Aran , Klemke Richard
Published: July 2024

Smoking plays an underappreciated role in breast cancer progression, increasing recurrence and mortality in patients. Here, we show that S100A8/A9 innate immune signaling is a molecular mechanism that identifies smoking-related breast cancers and underlies their enhanced malignancy. In contrast to acute exposure, chronic nicotine increased tumorigenicity and reprogrammed breast cancer cells to express innate immune response genes. This required the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor, which elicited dynamic changes in cell differentiation, proliferation, and expression of secreted cytokines, such as S100A8 and S100A9, as assessed by unbiased scRNA-Seq. Indeed, pharmacologic or genetic inhibition of S100A8/A9-RAGE receptor signaling blocked nicotine’s tumor-promoting effects. We also noted enrichment of S100A9 in cancers from former smokers, along with SNPH, linking this response to patient disease. Together, our findings describe a new α7 nAChR-S100A8/A9 immune signaling module that drives nicotine-induced tumor progression and distinguishes smoking-related patient disease as a distinct subset of aggressive breast cancers.
Non-Traditional Lipid Profiles and 1-Year Vascular Outcomes in Ischemic Stroke Patients with Prior Statin Therapy and LDL-C <100 mg/dL
Authors: Kim Hyunsoo , Kim Joon-Tae , Lee Ji Sung , Kim Beom Joon , Kang Jihoon , Lee Keon-Joo , Park Jong-Moo , Kang Kyusik , Lee Soo Joo , Kim Jae Guk , Cha Jae-Kwan , Kim Dae-Hyun , Park Tai Hwan , Lee Kyungbok , Lee Jun , Hong Keun-Sik , Cho Yong-Jin , Park Hong-Kyun , Lee Byung-Chul , Yu Kyung-Ho , Oh Mi Sun , Kim Dong-Eog , Choi Jay Chol , Kwon Jee-Hyun , Kim Wook-Joo , Shin Dong-Ick , Yum Kyu Sun , Sohn Sung Il , Hong Jeong-Ho , Lee Sang-Hwa , Park Man-Seok , Ryu Wi-Sun , Park Kwang-Yeol , Lee Juneyoung , Saver Jeffrey L. , Bae Hee-Joon
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to investigate the association between non-traditional lipid profiles and the risk of 1-year vascular events in patients who were already using statins before stroke and had admission LDL-C < 100 mg/dL. This study was an analysis of a prospective, multicenter, nationwide registry of consecutive patients with acute ischemic stroke patients who treated with statin before index stroke and LDL-C < 100mg/dL on admission. Non-traditional lipid profiles including non-HDL, TC/HDL ratio, LDL/HDL ratio, and TG/HDL ratio were analyzed as a continuous or categorical variable. The primary vascular outcome within one year was a composite of recurrent stroke (either hemorrhagic or ischemic), myocardial infarction (MI) and all-cause mortality. Hazard ratios (95% Cis) for 1-year vascular outcomes were analyzed using the Cox PH model for each non-traditional lipid profiles groups. A total of 7,028 patients (age 70.3 ± 10.8years, male 59.8%) were finally analyzed for the study. In unadjusted analysis, no significant associations were observed in the quartiles of LDL/HDL ratio and 1-year primary outcome. However, after adjustment of relevant variables, compared with Q1 of the LDL/HDL ratio, Q4 was significantly associated with increasing the risk of 1-year primary outcome (HR 1.48 [1.19–1.83]). For the LDL/HDL ratio, a linear relationship was observed (P for linearity < 0.001). Higher quartiles of the LDL/HDL ratio were significantly and linearly associated with increasing the risk of 1-year primary vascular outcomes. These findings suggest that even during statin therapy with LDL-C < 100mg/dl on admission, there should be consideration for residual risk based on the LDL/HDL ratio, following stroke.
Health literacy, social support, and health education, as factors associating with self-management behaviors among elderly patients with hypertension in China: a structural equation model
Authors: Chen Ziyan , Chen Meijun , Gong Litong , Tian Yu , Chang Chun , Cao Wangnan
Published: July 2024

Background
Hypertension is one of the world’s leading risk factors for death and disability. With a higher prevalence of hypertension, older adults need to strengthen self-management behaviors. The synergistic effects on self-management behaviors and the potential underlying mechanisms between self-management behaviors, health education, health literacy, and social support remain unclear.
Methods
A cross-sectional design and stratified multi-stage random sampling method were used to investigate hypertensive patients aged 60 years and older in six provinces from the eastern, central, and western regions of China. We collected data using questionnaires, and examined interactions among the factors using a structural equation model.
Results
1140 participants were included in this study. The SEM had a good overall fit. Health literacy, social support, and health education had a direct positive relationship with self-management behaviors (β = 0.157, β = 0.187, β = 0.158, P < 0.001). Social support had an indirectly positive relationship with self-management behaviors through health education and health literacy. Health education had an indirectly positive relationship with self-management behaviors through health literacy.
Conclusions
The situation of adopting self-management behaviors among elderly patients with hypertension is uneven in this study. Social support, health education, and health literacy all have direct or indirect impacts on self-management behaviors.
Stereotactic body radiation therapy combined with transcatheter arterial embolization as a downstaging treatment to transplant for hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus
Authors: Hu Jing-Qiong , Yang Xiao , He Wei-Ping , Sun Jing , Fan Yu-Ze , Ding Jun-Qiang , Wang Hong-Bo , Duan Xue-Zhang
Published: July 2024

Background: Liver transplantation (LT) is an effective treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, as portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT) is often viewed as a relative contraindication, patients with this condition frequently miss the opportunity for LT. This study aimed to explore stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) combined with transcatheter arterial embolization therapy (TAE) to control PVTT, downstage it to LT, and increase survival.
Methods: Between September 2016 and June 2022, 17 patients with HCC-PVTT were treated with SBRT combined with TAE and underwent LT after a successful downgrade. All patients were followedup and evaluated regularly. The Kaplan-Meier test was used for the analysis of survival.
Results: Of the study population, post-LT,the 12-, 18-, 24-, 36- and 60-month overall survival (OS) rateswere 100%, 88.24%, 64.71%, 47.06%, and 17.65%, respectively. Post-LT, the 12-, 18-, 24-, 36- and 60-month progression-free survival rates were 82.35%, 64.71%, 47.06%, 29.41%, and 17.65%, respectively. The median OS was 37 months.
Conclusions: SBRT combined with TAE as a downstaging therapy, followed by LT,showed a satisfactory effect in patients with HCC-PVTT. However, it is necessary to increase the sample size and perform a long-term follow-up.
Post-operative outcomes associated with anterior mesh location after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy.
Authors: Habib Nassir , Giorgi Matteo , Tahtouh Tania , Hamdi Amel , Centini Gabriele , Cannoni Alberto , Bader Georges
Published: July 2024

Objective
To investigate the relationship between the position of the anterior mesh, measured by ultrasound through the Bladder neck - Mesh Distance technique and the surgical outcomes after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy (SCP) for apical prolapse.
Study design:
Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data in a tertiary care hospital. Between January 2019 and September 2019, 63 women who underwent laparoscopic SCP due to apical prolapse were included. Bladder neck - Mesh Distance was measured immediately after surgery. The pelvic floor was evaluated using the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification (POP-Q) System before, one month, and 2.7 years (mid-term) after the surgery. Postoperative stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and Patient Global Impression of Improvement (PGI-I) scores were also assessed. The correlation between Bladder neck - Mesh Distance and the postoperative outcomes was investigated using the Spearman rank correlation coefficient.
Results
At mid-term follow-up visit, Bladder neck - Mesh Distance was inversely correlated with the correction of apical prolapse and postoperative SUI. No correlation was detected with the anterior compartment prolapse correction. PGI-I scores were high in all patients at mid-term follow-up, irrespective of Bladder neck - Mesh Distance values.
Conclusion
The shorter the Bladder neck - Mesh Distance, the better the outcome for apical compartment repair. Bladder neck - Mesh Distance had no correlation with the anterior anatomical correction. Shorter Bladder neck - Mesh Distance values were positively correlated to better PGI-I scores and a higher risk of SUI.
Identifying Sensitive Periods for the Impact of Physical Abuse on Psychopathology Symptoms
Authors: Xiao Xingyao , Zhu Li , Liu Yunting , Cheng Yihong
Published: July 2024

Extant research lacks completeness and accuracy in identifying the timing of sensitive periods for physical abuse across childhood. Utilizing data from the Longitudinal Studies of Child Abuse and Neglect (LONGSCAN) following more than one thousand children from early childhood into adulthood, the present study employed a novel, granular approach to indicate physical abuse timing, develop growth curve models that incorporated linear and quadratic terms of the age variable, and more completely and accurately revealed sensitive periods for physical abuse. Results showed that late childhood (8–10 years) and adolescence (14–17 years) are sensitive periods when physical abuse more severely impacts internalizing issues. Additionally, middle to late childhood (6–10 years) and adolescence (12–16 years) are sensitive periods when physical abuse more severely impacts externalizing problems. Overall, this study provides empirical support for theories of sensitive periods across childhood and offers valuable reference for mental health workers to timely intervene.
MonoSPDC：A Novel Monocular 3D Object Detection Using Global-Channel Atten- tion Optimization
Authors: Su Weixing , Guo Zengxin , Liu Fang , Wang Haoyu
Published: July 2024

With the development of autonomous driving and mobile robotics, monocular 3D object detection has attracted attention in the above fields due to its advantages of low cost, fast speed and low power consumption. However, both mainstream monocular 3D object detection network structures currently face difficulties in practical application in these fields. One issue is the low accuracy of convolutional network structures. Another issue is the complex structure, high computational complexity, large training dataset, and LiDAR assisted training problem of the Transformer network structure. To solve the above problems, a novel monocu-lar 3D object detection algorithm named MonoSPDC is proposed in this paper. In MonoSPDC, we propose the Feature Global-Channels Recombination Module (FGCR). FGCR uses the attention mechanism based on convolutional structure to perform attention operations on the global and channel dimensions of the feature map. This can make the feature map more distinct, while also making the generation of heatmap more reliable and accurate. we also propose the Multi-View Predictive Integration module (MVPI) in MonoSPDC. MVPI can realize the uncertain fusion of 3D corner information based on 2D feature regression and depth information based on depth feature map, so as to improve the accuracy of the final depth estimation. In summary, proposed Mono-SPDC does not require other additional auxiliary training data. It can retain the speed advantage of the convo-lutional structure while achieving the accuracy of the Transformer structure. In the test on the public dataset KITTI, our proposed MonoSPDC has achieved very excellent results.
Generation and Genetic Characterization of Salt-Tolerant Wheat (Triticum aestivum) Mutants under a Conservation Agriculture System
Authors: Saber Ayman Anter , Abdelraouf Ramadan , Khaled Khaled Adly , Moustafa Ehab , Samaha Ghada
Published: July 2024

A set of mutant’s wheat in M3, M4, and M5 generations (2021–2023) and mother varieties were sown in a high salinity environment on six combinations of organic amendments in Ras Sudr, Egypt to develop salt-tolerant cultivars under CA. Ten SSR markers linked with salinity tolerance were used to assess genetic diversity in wheat genotypes. The selection index that contained studied traits could be used as selection criteria to isolate salt-tolerant wheat, as there is a positive significant correlation with grain yield. The average values of polymorphic information content (PIC), gene diversity (GD), and Shannon diversity Index (H) were 0.36, 0.4574, and 0.64 respectively, indicating moderate genetic diversity among the wheat genotypes evaluated can be exploited to produce salt-tolerant wheat cultivars. These markers were initially identified for their association with salt tolerance in wheat. However, subsequent research has revealed their potential involvement in other important agronomic traits, so we associated the results of SSR markers with its related qtls in wheat. This association suggests its potential in influencing yield-related traits in wheat. These findings collectively demonstrate the versatility of SSR markers in identifying loci that govern various agronomic traits in wheat. These markers can play significant roles in improving multiple traits, including salt tolerance, heat stress resilience, grain quality, and yield components. This multifaceted nature makes them valuable tools for developing wheat varieties that can thrive in diverse and challenging environments. This knowledge can be leveraged in marker-assisted breeding programs to develop wheat cultivars with improved salt tolerance, disease resistance, grain quality, and yield-related traits.
Time course of mice-model Kawasaki Disease An echocardiographic study and clinical implication
Authors: Zhang Xue-Mei , Jiao Fu-Yong , Yong Su-Boon , Lin Chun-Ting , Lou Ping , Cao Ling , Zhao Ying , Zhao Xin , Wang Jun-Xiang , Jin Jing , Zhang Dan , Tai I-Hsin , Han Zhen , Kuo Ho-Chang , Hsieh Kai-Sheng
Published: July 2024

Background: Kawasaki disease is a primary cause of pediatric cardiac issues, with the risk of coronary artery complications, heart attacks, and untreated death. Approximately 10% of patients do not respond to initial high dose intravenous immunoglobulin treatment. Our unique model aimed to explore high resolution small animal ultrasound for coronary imaging and its correlation with histopathology and clinical progression.
Methods: Eighteen BALB/c mice were divided into Kawasaki disease and control groups. Kawasaki disease was induced with a single intraperitoneal injection of Lactobacillus casei cell wall extract. High resolution small animal ultrasound monitored coronary changes on multiple days, and histopathological analysis covered various organs.
Results: The findings reveal significant changes in coronary artery diameter, with both the left and right coronary arteries expanding considerably during the experiment. By day 21, the model group exhibited marked coronary artery widening. Ejection fraction and fractional shortening deteriorated significantly by day 14 compared to the baseline. The histopathology report offers a comprehensive timeline of cardiac involvement.
Conclusion: Our model uniquely illustrates coronary arteritis and cardiac lesions in Kawasaki disease mice, emphasizing progressive coronary dilation, notably by day 21. Correlation with pathology supports our findings, shedding light on disease progression in this mouse model, suggesting a delayed course compared to human Kawasaki disease, with potential severe myocarditis.
Women's empowerment and health facility utilisation during childbirth in Cameroon
Authors: Totouom Armand
Published: July 2024

Low women’s empowerment probably constitutes a key obstacle to healthcare utilisation in Africa, given the importance of gender inequalities in this region. However, evidence on the association between women’s empowerment and facility delivery in Cameroon is rare. We provided one of the first studies that examine the association between women’s empowerment and health facility delivery in Cameroon. Our study demonstrates that women’s intra-household decision-making power is associated with a higher probability of using health facility during childbirth. Women that have the final say (alone or jointly with their husband/partner) on their own health care have a higher probability to give birth in a health facility. In addition, the selection equation estimates show those women’s empowerment increases with control over assets, namely land and house. Therefore, policies enhancing land rights equity have the potential to increase women’s empowerment which in turns will improve maternal health through health facility utilisation.
Optimizing Relay Selection in D2DCommunication for Next-Generation WirelessNetworks Using Multi-Agent ReinforcementLearning: A Novel Approach
Authors: SIRMA Muharrem , KAVAK Adnan , INNER A. Burak
Published: July 2024

Device-to-device (D2D) communication offering a direct communication channel between devices has been introduced as an alternative communication technique for next generation wireless networks, which aims to alleviate the workload traditionally shouldered by base stations (BS) in cellular systems. However, D2D pairs encountering connectivity issues or requiring extended communication ranges will necessitate the involvement of a relay node (RN) to facilitate communication. For the cases wherein an efficient communication with the target device is only possible over a relay device, finding the candidate relay among source-relay-destination devices with the best link availability and optimized end-to-end throughput are challenges to be considered in relay assisted D2D communication. Despite the plethora of studies on relay selection in D2D communication, there persists a need for a method that systematically integrates multiple disruptive factors inherent in wireless channels. While Reinforcement Learning (RL) has primarily found application in resource management tasks like power control, resource block (RB) availability, and spectrum allocation, its utilization for relay selection in D2D communication within dynamic wireless environments remains largely unexplored. In this paper, we propose to use multi-agent reinforcement learning based relay selection (MARS) in which the source device and/or pairing devices act as learning agents. The resource selection agent (RSA), the link agent (LA), and the transmission agent (TA) are involved cooperatively in the MARS method to find the optimum relay. Source nodes in D2D pairs iteratively update their strategies through interactions with the wireless environment and other devices in order to maximize its cost function to select the most convenient relay in the multi hop D2D communication scenario. The MARS method takes into account the combined effect of SINR, link reliability, and throughput values for the estimation of cost function order to select the optimum relay node. We have performed extensive simulations for different device density scenarios in wireless environment and compared the performance of our MARS method with SINR based relay selection approach. The findings show that our relay selection approach for D2D communication outperforms SINR-based methods in terms of end-to-end link reliability and throughput performance.
Hybrid rice optimization algorithm inspired grey wolf optimizer for high-dimensional feature selection
Authors: Ye Zhiwei , Huang Ruoxuan , Zhou Wen , Wang Mingwei , Cai Ting , He Qiyi , Zhang Peng , Zhang Yuquan
Published: July 2024

Feature selection (FS) is a significant dimensionality reduction technique, which can effectively remove redundant features. Metaheuristic algorithms have been widely employed in FS, and have obtained satisfactory performance, among them, grey wolf optimizer (GWO) has received widespread attention. However, the GWO and its variants suffer from limited adaptability, poor diversity, and low accuracy when faced with high-dimensional data. The hybrid rice optimization (HRO) algorithm is an emerging metaheuristic algorithm derived from the hybrid heterosis and breeding mechanism in nature. It possesses a robust capacity to identify and converge towards optimal solutions. Therefore, a novel approach based on multi-strategy collaborative GWO combined with the HRO algorithm (HRO-GWO) for FS is proposed in this paper. The HRO-GWO algorithm is enhanced by four innovative strategies including dynamical regulation strategy and three search strategies. First, to improve the adaptability of GWO, the dynamical regulation strategy is devised for parameter optimization of GWO. Then, a multi-strategy co-evolution model inspired by HRO is designed, which utilizes neighborhood search, dual-crossover, and selfing techniques to bolster population diversity. Finally, the study develops a hybrid filter-wrapper framework to efficiently select pertinent and informative feature subsets, enhancing the classification performance while conserving time. The performance of HRO-GWO has been rigorously assessed across benchmark functions and the effectiveness of the proposed framework has been evaluated on high-dimensional biomedical datasets. Our experimental findings demonstrate that the approach on the basis of HRO-GWO outperforms state-of-the-art methods.
Empirical modeling of residual stress profile for multi-axis milling GH4169G
Authors: Zhou Jinhua , Zhang Zhongda , Liu Cijie , Shu Ailing , Jiang Xiaohui , Ren Junxue
Published: July 2024

The superalloy GH4169G is used to manufacture integral blisks for aero engines. Torsional bending deformation caused by residual stresses from multi-axis machining is one of the major factors contributing to excessive dimensional errors in blisk blade manufacturing. However, few studies have focused on predicting the residual stress profile in multi-axis milling of the superalloy GH4169G. Therefore, in this paper, an empirical model was established to predict the residual stress profile in multi-axis milling of the superalloy GH4169G. First, 36 sets of multi-axis milling experiments were conducted. Then, the residual stress profile was fitted using the Exponential Decay Cosine (EDC) function and the Firefly algorithm (FA) based on the experiment. Support Vector Machine (SVM) was used to establish the mapping relationship between the process parameters and the coefficients of the EDC function. In addition, the effects of process parameters including spindle speed, feed per tooth and tilt inclination angle on surface residual stress, maximum compressive residual stress and residual stress depth were investigated. Finally, the NSGA-III algorithm was used to obtain the recommended process parameters for multi-axis milling of the superalloy GH4169G blades.
Study on the law of ore dilution and loss and control strategies under brow line failure in sublevel caving mining
Authors: Ming Jian , Pan Yuehao , Xie Jingpeng , Li Zhihui , Guo Ronghua
Published: July 2024

To improve ore recovery ratio and the quality of medium-length hole blasting in non-pillar sublevel caving method, this study first investigated the effects of brow line failure on rock movement and ore recovery indexes based on rock blasting fragmentation mechanisms, the granular dynamics theory and ore drawing theory. Subsequently, control strategies to enhance blasting quality and reduce brow line failure were explored through energy impact crushing experiments, experiments on the radial rock-breaking effects of blast holes with different detonation velocities, and underground physical simulation experiments using full blast hole length detonating cord blasting. The experimental results indicate that as the degree of brow line failure increases, the ore recovery ratio gradually decreases, while the waste ratio gradually increases. Bottom initiation and the use of the full blast hole length detonating cord were identified as the optimal initiation method and charging structure for medium-length hole blasting in non-pillar sublevel caving method, effectively improving blasting quality and reducing damage to the brow line.
DKDL-Net: A Lightweight Bearing Fault Detection Model via Decoupled Knowledge Distillation and Low-Rank Adaptation Fine-tuning
Authors: Petrosian Ovanes , Li Pengyi , He Yulong , Liu Jiarui , Sun Zhaoruikun , Fu Guofeng , Meng Liping
Published: July 2024

Rolling bearing fault detection has developed rapidly in the field of fault diagnosis technology, and it occupies a very important position in this field. Deep learning-based bearing fault diagnosis models have achieved significant success. At the same time, with the continuous improvement of new signal processing technologies such as Fourier transform, wavelet transform and empirical mode decomposition, the fault diagnosis technology of rolling bearings has also been greatly developed, and it can be said that it has entered a new research stage. However, most of the existing methods are limited to varying degrees in the industrial field. The main ones are fast feature extraction and computational complexity. The key to this paper is to propose a lightweight bearing fault diagnosis model DKDL-Net to solve these challenges. The model is trained on the CWRU data set by decoupling knowledge distillation and low rank adaptive fine tuning. Specifically, we built and trained a teacher model based on a 6-layer neural network with 69,626 trainable parameters, and on this basis, using decoupling knowledge distillation (DKD) and Low-Rank adaptive (LoRA) fine-tuning, we trained the student sag model DKDL-Net, which has only 6838 parameters. Experiments show that DKDL-Net achieves 99.48% accuracy in computational complexity on the test set while maintaining model performance, which is 0.58% higher than the state-of-the-art (SOTA) model, and our model has lower parameters. Our code is available at Github link: https://github.com/SPBU-LiPengyi/DKDL-Net.git.
Lensless phase-only holographic Maxwellian display based on double-phase decomposition for optical see-through near-eye display applications
Authors: Luo Yuhang , Wan Wenqiang , Zhou Yanhong , Su Yanfeng
Published: July 2024

The holographic Maxwellian display holds significant potential as a technique for augmented reality presentations due to its capability to address the vergence-accommodation conflict in see-through near-eye displays. However, conventional lensless holographic Maxwellian displays predominantly rely on amplitude-type holograms, facing challenges such as low diffraction efficiency and interference from conjugate images. To overcome these limitations, we propose a lensless phase-only holographic Maxwellian display tailored for optical see-through near-eye applications. In our approach, a complex amplitude distribution, calculated using the angular spectrum diffraction method, was encoded into a phase hologram via the double-phase decomposition algorithm. This phase hologram can effectively converge the virtual target image onto the viewer’s pupil by multiplying the phase hologram with a convergent spherical wave at the hologram plane, enabling viewers to consistently perceive all-in-focus images at the pupil location. Additionally, we introduced a digital grating to mitigate the interference caused by other-order diffraction images. Finally, experimental results demonstrated that our proposed near-eye display system can accurately generate see-through virtual images without the vergence-accommodation conflict issue by loading the designed phase hologram onto a phase-type spatial light modulator. Furthermore, the eyebox expansion has been realized by multiplying the phase hologram with multiple convergent spherical waves.
Zeolite application contributes to remediation of lead-polluted soil by spinach
Authors: Liu Tao , Zhang Xuemei , Wu Rui , Shi Zhenqi , Duan Lishan , Lin Changcun
Published: July 2024

Remediation of lead (Pb)-contaminated soils is increasingly important because production of food crops in these soils is associated with human health risk. The present study investigated use of natural zeolite to remediate Pb-contaminated soil by quantifying changes in soil properties, soil nutrients and distribution of Pb in spinach plant parts. Natural zeolite was added to pots containing four different soil media that were artificially amended with Pb in a greenhouse. Zeolite was mixed with the media at four rates plus a zero control, and for three of the Zeolite rates a second application was made to the soil surface in the pot 30 days later for a total of eight zeolite treatments. The 32 treatments were replicated four times. Pb immobilization by zeolite was dose dependent, with greater immobilization at higher zeolite rates. Heterogeneous soil humus components exerted both mobilizing and stabilizing effects, so the medium nutrition was most effective for phytostabilization. So,split applications of zeolite were more effective than once, because the lag-phase time of split zeolite treatment applications was longer than for one application, to the same total dosage. This method might be an efficient way to remediate the lead-polluted soils with zeolite application twice.
Whether External Public Welfare Can Reduce the Corporate Carbon Emissions——Empirical Evidence Based on the Administrative Public Interest Litigation System
Authors: Cui Xinghua , Zhang Shu , Zheng Dui
Published: July 2024

The administrative public interest litigation system (APILS) is an important guarantee for environmental public interest protection and an important institutional innovation of external supervision, which has great significance for low-carbon development. This study takes the listed companies from 2000 to 2021 in China as the research samples, and examines the impact of APILS on corporate carbon emissions (CCE). The results show that: (1) The APILS can significantly promote the reduction of CCE. (2) This research conclusion exhibits multidimensional heterogeneity, which varies depending on the industry type, market competition level, city size, and resource attributes. (3) The mechanism test shows that the APILS can promote CCE reduction through three mechanisms: green innovation, public environmental claims and environmental administrative regulation. (4) Further expansive analyses finds that social trust can strengthen the inhibitory effect of the APILS on CCE. The conclusion of this study provides empirical evidence for exploring the role of external public welfare system supervision in promoting CCE reduction.