bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimization of Low-Grade Coal and Refuse-Derived Fuel Blends for Improved Co-Combustion Behavior in Coal-Fired Power Plants
Authors: Zaib Qammer , Park Sangchul , Behera Shishir Kumar , Mahanty Biswanath , Zafar Mohd. , Park Hung-suck , Kyung Daeseung
Published: May 2023

This study aims at utilizing three waste materials, i.e., Biomass-Solid Refuse Fuel (SRF), Tire Derived Fuel (TDF), and Sludge Derived Fuel (SDF), as ecofriendly alternatives to coal-only combustion in co-firing power plants. The contribution of waste materials is limited to ≤ 5% in the composition of the mixed fuel (coal + waste materials). Statistical experimental design and response surface methodology is employed to investigate the effect of mixed fuel composition (SRF, TDF, and SDF) on gross calorific value (GCV) and ash fusion temperature (AFT). A quadratic model is developed and statistically verified to apprehend mixed fuel constituents' individual and combined effects on GCV and AFT. Constrained optimization of fuel blend, i.e., GCV > 1250 kcal/kg and AFT > 1200°C, using the polynomial models projected the fuel-blend containing 95% coal with 3.84% SRF, 0.35% TDF, and 0.81% SDF. The observed GCV of 5307 kcal/kg and AFT of 1225°C for the optimized blend were within 1% of the model predicted values, thereby establishing the robustness of the models. Our findings can foster sustainable economic development and zero CO2 emission objectives by optimizing the utilization of waste materials without compromising on the GCV and AFT of mixed fuels in coal-fired power plants.
Fractional Exhalation Nitric Oxide (FeNO) Changes in Cystic Fibrosis Patients Induced by Compound honey Syrup
Authors: Sadr Saeed , Tahermohammadi Hanieh , Kaveh Shahpar , Khanbabaee Ghamartaj , Tabatabaei Seyed Ahmad , Choopani Rasool , Rouzbahani Arian Karimi , Derikvandi Shima
Published: May 2023

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Persian medicine Syrup ‘compound honey syrup (CHS)’ on Fractional exhalation Nitric Oxide (FeNO) changes in patients with Cystic Fibrosis (CF).
Study design: We conducted a before-after clinical trial on 70 CF patients. All patients received classical treatments for CF along with CHS (including honey, Ginger, cinnamon, saffron, cardamom and galangal), 5-10 cc (depending on the age and weight of patients) in 100 cc of warm boiled water twice a day, 30 minutes after meals. In this clinical trial, before and 12 weeks after the start of the CHS, FeNO test was evaluated.
Results: From 70 patients were enrolled, 44 patients completed this 12-week course of treatment. At the end of the study, changes in FeNO was significantly different before and after treatment (P-value < 0.05). At the end of the study, no dangerous side effects of CHS were observed.
Conclusions: This study revealed that CHS can be effective as a complementary and safe drug in the medication of CF patients.
Analytical Method Development and Validation of Terbinafine Hydrochloride and Ketoconazole in Bulk and Dosage Form.
Authors: Gund Apurva , Datar Prasanna
Published: May 2023

For the simultaneous quantification of Terbinafine hydrochloride and Ketoconazole in bulk and tablet dosage form, an RP-HPLC technique has been optimized and validated. The allylamine in the Terbinafine hydrochloride and imidazole in Ketoconazole act as its active constituent and inhibit the ergosterol synthesis which stops the growth of fungal cell. The chromatographic separation was performed on Thermo fisher scientific HPLC having PDA detector by using BDS Hypersil C18 (4.6 X 250mm i.d.) 5µm particle column. Mobile phase comprises of Solution A- 20% of triethylamine buffer in water (pH 6.8 ± 0.05) + 80% of Acetonitrile and methanol (40:60 v/v) and Solution B- Methanol and Acetonitrile (60:40). The proportion of A: B was 50:50 v/v. The pump flow rate was set to be 1.5 ml/min and injection volume was 20 µl. Detection was done using 247nm as the UV wavelength. The technique conformed with all validation requirements as specified by ICH Q2 R1 guidelines and method was found to be linear for Terbinafine hydrochloride and Ketoconazole with correlation coefficient of 0.9998 and 0.9996, respectively. The linearity range for Terbinafine HCl was between 3.13-25 ppm and that for ketoconazole was 1.25-10 ppm. The method was found to be precise, accurate & robust with percent RSD of not more than 2%. So, the suggested method can be used to analyse drug samples on a regular basis.
Single-nucleus RNA sequencing reveals that macrophages and smooth muscle cells promote carotid atherosclerosis progression through mitochondrial autophagy
Authors: Song Yamin , Zhang Qiang , Ban Ru , Zhao Xin , Sun Hao , Lin Jie , Guo Tingting , Wang Tao , Xia Kai , Xin Zhenxue , Zhang Guifeng , Jia Xiaodong , Xia Zhangyong
Published: May 2023

Objects
Carotid atherosclerotic plaques are the manifestation of atherosclerosis in the carotid arteries and can significantly increase the incidence of cerebrovascular disease. Macrophages and smooth muscle cells are crucial for their development. Our research aimed to reveal the mechanism of carotid atherosclerotic plaque formation.
Methods
The collected carotid plaques were processed to extract RNA and create a DNA library. After completing these steps, Single-nucleus RNA Sequencing analysis was performed using R language to analyze cell subpopulations. KEGG pathway, cellular communication, and the proposed time-series analysis were performed for differential genes.
Results
we performed single-cell nuclear sequencing of the carotid plaque tissue and identified 11 cell types, and the macrophages were divided into five different macrophage subpopulations. The macrophages and smooth muscle cells in the patients with symptomatic carotid atherosclerotic plaques caused intraplaque cell death via the mitochondrial autophagic pathway, resulting in plaque instability and rupture, which in turn led to clinical cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.
Conclusions
The findings provide new insights into carotid atherosclerosis formation, and this may provide new directions for the prevention and treatment of carotid atherosclerosis.
Genital identification and food plants of bumble bee species in four agro-climatic zones of Himachal Pradesh, India
Authors: Negi Neha , rana kiran , chauhan Ojas , singh Sawraj jit , Bhatia Simran
Published: May 2023

The goal of the current investigation was to learn more about the diversity and status of bumble bee species as well as their sources of food in various regions of Himachal Pradesh. In four agro-climatic zones (Zone-I (Upto 914 m amsl) sub-mountain low hills zone, Zone-II (915–1523 m amsl) mid-hills high humid zone, Zone-III (1524–2472 m amsl) high hills temperate wet zone and Zone-IV (> 2472 m amsl) high hills temperate dry zone) of Himachal Pradesh, India, extensive research on bumble bees and their food sources was done. Taxonomic studies were conducted to identify different bumble bee species. Seven species of bumble bees viz. Bombus haemorrhoidalis, B. tunicatus, B. rufofasciatus, B. miniatus, B. melanurus, B. hypnorum and B. albopleuralis were identified along with their host plants. It is possible to use bumble bees to pollinate commercial crops. Climate change or changes in farming practises may pose an extinction threat to locally endemic species in the future. Thus, the research on bee conservation biology has been inspired by the rising issue of pollination.
Preoperative prediction of cervical cancer survival using a high-resolution MRI-based radiomics nomogram
Authors: Li Jia , Zhou Hao , Lu Xiaofei , Wang Yiren , Pang Haowen , Cesar Daniel , Liu Aiai , Zhou Ping
Published: May 2023

Background Cervical cancer patients receiving radiotherapy and chemotherapy require accurate survival prediction methods. The objective of this study was to develop a prognostic analysis model based on a radiomics score to predict overall survival (OS) in cervical cancer patients. Methods Predictive models were developed using data from 62 cervical cancer patients who underwent radical hysterectomy between June 2020 and June 2021. Radiological features were extracted from T2-weighted (T2W), T1-weighted (T1W), and diffusion-weighted (DW) magnetic resonance images prior to treatment. We obtained the radiomics score (rad-score) using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression and Cox’s proportional hazard model. We divided the patients into low- and high-risk groups according to the critical rad-score value, and generated a nomogram incorporating radiological features. We evaluated the model’s prediction performance using area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) and classified the participants into high- and low-risk groups based on radiological characteristics. Results The 62 patients were divided into high-risk (n = 43) and low-risk (n = 19) groups based on the rad-score. Four feature parameters were selected via dimensionality reduction, and the scores were calculated after modeling. The AUC values of ROC curves for prediction of 3- and 5-year OS using the model were 0.84 and 0.93, respectively. Conclusion Our nomogram incorporating a combination of radiological features demonstrated good performance in predicting cervical cancer OS. This study highlights the potential of radiomics analysis in improving survival prediction for cervical cancer patients. However, further studies on a larger scale and external validation cohorts are necessary to validate its potential clinical utility.
A Mathematical Model for Simulating Photoacoustic Signal Generation Process in Biological Tissues
Authors: GadAllah Mohammed Tarek , Mohamed Abd El-Naser A. , Hefnawy Alaa , Zidan Hassan , El-Banby Ghada , Badawy Samir Mohamed
Published: May 2023

Background: Biomedical photoacoustic imaging (PAI) is a hybrid imaging modality based on the laser-generated ultrasound waves due to the photoacoustic (PA) effect physical phenomenon that has been reported firstly by A. G. Bell in 1880. Numerical modeling-based simulation for the PA signal generation process in biological tissues helps researchers for decreasing error trials in-vitro and hence decreasing error rates for in-vivo experiments. Numerical modeling methods help in obtaining a rapid modeling procedure comparable to pure mathematics. However, if a proper simplified mathematical model can be founded before applying numerical modeling techniques, it will be a great advantage for the overall numerical model. Most scientific theories, equations, and assumptions, been proposed to mathematically model the complete PA signal generation and propagation process in biological tissues, are so complicated. Hence, the researchers, especially the beginners, will find a hard difficulty to explore and obtain a proper simplified mathematical model describing the process. That’s why this paper is introduced.
Methods: In this paper we have tried to simplify understanding for the biomedical PA wave’s generation and propagation process, deducing a simplified mathematical model for the whole process. The proposed deduced model is based on three steps: a- pulsed laser irradiance, b- diffusion of light through biological tissue, and c- acoustic pressure wave generation and propagation from the target tissue to the ultrasound transducer surface. COMSOL Multiphysics, which is founded due to the finite element method (FEM) numerical modeling principle, has been utilized to validate the proposed deduced mathematical model on a simulated biological tissue including a tumor inside.
Results and Conclusion: The time-dependent study been applied by COMSOL has assured that the proposed deduced mathematical model may be considered as a simplified, easy, and fast startup base for scientific researchers to numerically model and simulate biomedical PA signals’ generation and propagation process utilizing any proper software like COMSOL.
Tuning Parameters for Polygenic Risk Score Methods Using GWAS Summary Statistics from Training Data
Authors: Jiang Wei , Chen Ling , Girgenti Matthew , Zhao Hongyu
Published: May 2023

Predicting genetic risks for common diseases may improve their prevention and early treatment. In recent years, various additive-model-based polygenic risk scores (PRS) methods have been proposed to combine the estimated effects of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) using data collected from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Some of these methods require access to another external individual-level GWAS dataset to tune the hyperparameters, which can be difficult because of privacy and security-related concerns. Additionally, leaving out partial data for hyperparameter tuning can reduce the predictive accuracy of the constructed PRS model.
In this article, we propose a novel method, called PRStuning, to automatically tune hyperparameters for different PRS methods using only GWAS summary statistics from the training data. The core idea is to first predict the performance of the PRS method with different parameter values, and then select the parameters with the best prediction performance. Because directly using the effects observed from the training data tends to overestimate the performance in the testing data (a phenomenon known as overfitting), we adopt an empirical Bayes approach to shrinking the predicted performance in accordance with the estimated genetic architecture of the disease. Results from extensive simulations and real data applications demonstrate that PRStuning can accurately predict the PRS performance across PRS methods and parameters, and it can help select the best-performing parameters.
Decentralized Dynamic System for Optimal Power Dispatch in Wind Farms Based on Node-Dependence Nature
Authors: Huang Sheng , Wei Juan , Wei Chao , Wu Qiuwei , Zhang Wei , Qu Yinpeng , Peng Hanzhi
Published: May 2023

Meeting the power demand from transmission system operator (TSO) is an important objective for power dispatch, which introduces a power supply-demand constraint coupling all the wind turbines (WTs) among the wind farm (WF) into the optimization problem. Traditional methods, such as centralized or distributed optimal methods, can effectively handle global constraints from the TSO. However, these methods are unsuitable for real-time applications because of the high computational and communication requirements. In recent years, decentralized optimal control has emerged as a promising solution for WF control, but solving the coupling constraints is still challenging because of the lack of information sharing between local controllers. To this end, this study designed a completely decentralized dynamic system for WFs to optimize power dispatch while satisfying the TSO's power dispatch requirements. A voltage optimization problem with supply-demand constraints was decoupled based on node-dependence nature, an inherent characteristic of WFs that can be expressed using power sensitivities. The local optimization problem was solved iteratively using the gradient projection method, and the system converged linearly to the equilibrium point. Case studies in MATLAB/Simulink demonstrate that the proposed method can achieve near-global optimal performance only using local measurements.
Efficacy and safety of venetoclax combined with hypomethylating agents for relapse of acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome post-transplantation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Du Yufeng , Li Chunhong , Zhang Chengtao , Zhao Zhijia , Liu Yikun , Yan Jinsong
Published: May 2023

Background
Currently, there is no standard treatment for managing relapse after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation in patients with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome (AML/MDS). Venetoclax (Ven)-based therapies have been increasingly used for treating post-transplant relapse. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to evaluate the efficacy and adverse events of Ven combined with hypomethylating agents (HMAs) for AML/MDS relapse post-transplantation.
Methods
We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Excerpta Medica Database, Cochrane Library, and Clinical. gov for eligible studies from the inception to February 2022. The Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies was used to evaluate the quality of the included literature. The inverse variance method calculated the pooled proportion and 95% confidence interval (CI).
Results
This meta-analysis included 9 studies involving a total of 202 patients. The pooled complete response and complete response with incomplete blood count recovery rate of Ven combined with HMAs for post-transplant relapse in AML/MDS was 32% (95% CI, 25%-40%, I2 = 0%), with an overall response rate of 50% (95% CI, 40%-59%, I2 = 38%). The 6-month survival rate was 43% (95% CI, 28%-59%, I2 = 68%) and the 1-year survival rate was 27% (95% CI, 13%-42%, I2 = 72%).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated a moderate benefit of Ven in combination with HMAs for AML/MDS patients with relapsed post-transplantation (including those who have received prior HMAs therapy), and may become one of the treatment options in the future. Large-scale prospective studies are needed to confirm this study in future.
Genetic Factors Associated with Suicidal Behaviors and Alcohol Use Disorders in an American Indian Population
Authors: Peng Qian , Gilder David , Bernert Rebecca , Karriker-Jaffe Katherine , Ehlers Cindy
Published: May 2023

American Indians (AI) demonstrate the highest rates of both suicidal behaviors (SB) and alcohol use disorders (AUD) among all ethnic groups in the US. Rates of suicide and AUD vary substantially between tribal groups and across different geographical regions, underscoring a need to delineate more specific risk and resilience factors. Using data from over 740 AI living within eight contiguous reservations, we assessed genetic risk factors for SB by investigating: (1) possible genetic overlap with AUD, and (2) impacts of rare and low frequency genomic variants. Suicidal behaviors included lifetime history of suicidal thoughts and acts, including verified suicide deaths, scored using a ranking variable for the SB phenotype (range 0–4). We identified five loci significantly associated with SB and AUD, two of which are intergenic and three intronic on genes AACSP1, ANK1, and FBXO11. Nonsynonymous rare mutations in four genes including SERPINF1 (PEDF), ZNF30, CD34, and SLC5A9, and non-intronic rare mutations in genes OPRD1, HSD17B3 and one lincRNA were significantly associated with SB. One identified pathway related to hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF) regulation, whose 83 nonsynonymous rare variants on 10 genes were significantly linked to SB as well. Four additional genes, and two pathways related to vasopressin-regulated water metabolism and cellular hexose transport, also were strongly associated with SB. This study represents the first investigation of genetic factors for SB in an American Indian population that has high risk for suicide. Our study suggests that bivariate association analysis between comorbid disorders can increase statistical power; and rare variant analysis in a high-risk population enabled by whole-genome sequencing has the potential to identify novel genetic factors. Although such findings may be population specific, rare functional mutations relating to PEDF and HIF regulation align with past reports and suggest a biological mechanism for suicide risk and a potential therapeutic target for intervention.
“We literally worked in parking lots, cars, garages, and separately set up party tents.” Qualitative study on the experiences of GPs in the frame of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic in Austria
Authors: Rabady Susanne , Mayrhofer Mira , Szabo Nathalie , Erber Patrick , Hoffmann Kathryn
Published: May 2023

Background:
Primary care is internationally recognised as one of the cornerstones of health care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, primary care physicians were assigned a variety of tasks and thus made a significant contribution to a country's pandemic response. They were expected to perform a variety of tasks, such as diagnosing and treating people with COVID-19, maintaining health care for all other patients, as well as several public health tasks, such as diagnostic testing and vaccination, protecting patients and staff from infection, and serving as community trusted persons. In Austria, there are no structured levels of care, no definition of the role of the general practitioner during a pandemic is given, and no specific support structures are present. The aim of this study was to assess the views and experiences of primary care physicians regarding supportive and hindering factors for pandemic preparedness in Austria.
Methods:
Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. A total of 30 general practitioners were interviewed, with particular attention to an equitable distribution in small, medium and large primary care facilities. Qualitative content analysis was performed.
Results:
Interviewees described a wide range of infection control, organisational and communication measures that they had implemented. They made changes to practise equipment, found makeshift solutions when supplies were scarce, and established communication and information pathways when official communication lines were inadequate.
Conclusion:
General practitioners took on essential tasks and showed a high level of understanding of their role in the pandemic response. This was achieved mainly at an informal level and with high personal commitment. Their functioning in the absence of structural regulations and support shows that they had a clear intrinsic understanding of their responsibilities. To ensure reliability and sustainability and to reduce their burden, it will be necessary to clarify the role and tasks of a general practitioner and to provide the necessary support. This concerns both infrastructural support and communication and information strategies. As part of the reform to strengthen primary care, primary care needs to be seen, valued and involved in decision-making processes.
Cursoriality Scores of Triassic Ornithodirans
Authors: Meyer Gabriel
Published: May 2023

The phylogenetic placement of many Triassic Ornithodirans is convoluted and in need of more data for the best possible placement. Lagerpeptidae and Silesauridae are both under consideration for placement differing than their traditional setting in Dinosauromorpha. The cursoriality of many of these animals has never been assessed, and it could prove useful for further research. Measurements were taken for seventeen taxa from the literature and three types of cursoriality scores were constructed: tibial, third metatarsal, and lower leg length and then analyzed for significance. The scores add to the growing body of evidence placing Lagerpeptidae into Pterosauromorpha but fall short of any clear evidence regarding Silesauridae.
Genome-wide identification of the histone acetyltransferase gene family in Citrus clementina and its potential roles in citrate metabolism
Authors: Lin Xia-hui , Shi Yan-na , Liu Sheng-chao , Liu Xin-cheng , Li Shaojia , Chen Kun-song
Published: May 2023

Histone acetyltransferase (HAT) catalyzes histone acetylation and is involved in plant growth and development and stress responses. Here, 37 CitHAT genes were identified in Citrus clementina. Their physicochemical properties, chromosomal location, gene structure, conserved domain and motif, and cis-acting elements were characterized. CitHATs were classified into four subfamilies, HAG (32), HAC (2), HAF (2), and HAM (1), based on protein sequence homology, which was strongly supported by gene structure, conserved domain, and motif analysis. The cis-acting elements in gene promoter regions were predicted to be associated with the regulation of plant growth, stress resistance, and response to hormones. We further treated citrus callus with HAT inhibitor, the result showed that HAT inhibitor treatment effectively increased the citric acid content in citrus callus, and the transcript levels of several citric acid metabolism genes were inhibited, which means that CitHAT may regulate citric acid metabolism through these genes. Our study associates the potential function of histone acetyltransferases in citrate metabolism and extends the molecular mechanism of citrate metabolism in fruits.
Exploring patient perspectives on how they can and should be engaged in the development of artificial intelligence (AI) applications in health care
Authors: Adus Samira , Macklin Jillian , Pinto Andrew
Published: May 2023

Background Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly evolving field which will have implications on both individual patient care and the health care system. There are many benefits to the integration of AI into health care, such as predicting acute conditions and enhancing diagnostic capabilities. Despite these benefits potential harms include algorithmic bias, inadequate consent processes, and implications on the patient-provider relationship. One tool to address patients’ needs and prevent the negative implications of AI is through patient engagement. As it currently stands, patients have infrequently been involved in AI application development for patient care delivery. Furthermore, we are unaware of any frameworks or recommendations specifically addressing patient engagement within the field of AI in health care. Methods We conducted four virtual focus groups with thirty patient participants to understand of how patients can and should be meaningfully engaged within the field of AI development in health care. Participants completed an educational module on the fundamentals of AI prior to participating in this study. Focus groups were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Results We found that patients want to be engaged at the problem-identification stages using multiple methods such as surveys and interviews. Participants preferred that recruitment methodologies for patient engagement included both in-person and social media-based approaches with an emphasis on varying language modalities of recruitment to reflect diverse demographics. Patients prioritized the inclusion of underrepresented participant populations, longitudinal relationship building, accessibility, and interdisciplinary involvement of other stakeholders in AI development. We found that AI education is a critical step to enable meaningful patient engagement within this field, especially. We have curated recommendations into a framework for the field to learn from and implement within their groups. Conclusion Given the novelty and speed at which AI innovation is progressing in health care, patient engagement should be the gold standard for application development. Our proposed recommendations seek to enable patient-centered AI application development in health care. Future research must be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of patient engagement in AI application development to ensure that both AI application development and patient engagement are done rigorously, efficiently, and meaningfully.
Structural variation in families with speech and language disorder provides a deeper understanding of the genetic basis for naturally acquired speech
Authors: Chan Ernest , Benchek Penelope , Miller Gabrielle , Brustoski Kim , Schaffer Ashleigh , Truitt Barbara , Tag Jessica , Freebairn Lisa , Lewis Barbara , Iyengar Sudha , Stein Catherine
Published: May 2023

Childhood apraxia of speech (CAS) is a severe and rare form of speech sound disorder (SSD) with an estimated prevalence of 0.01-2%. CAS typically occurs in isolation (sporadic), but may segregate in families with broader speech and language deficits. We hypothesized that disruptive genetic changes may be involved in the etiology of CAS, and were resolvable by examination of whole genome sequence. We sequenced 27 families with a CAS child within the Cleveland Family Speech and Reading Study, examining 101 individuals in all. CAS subjects displayed errors on single word articulation (75%), multisyllabic real word repetition (93%), multisyllabic non-word repetition (82%), and oral motor function (82%); many also exhibited problems with fine and gross motor skills. We identified 17 genomic regions including 19 unique structural variants (SVs) present in children with CAS. Three variants were shared across families, but the rest were unique; some events were de novo. In four families, siblings with milder phenotypes co-inherited the same SVs, suggesting that some SVs display variable expressivity. In an independent sample, we replicated eight SVs using microarray technology and found that many of these SVs were present in children with milder forms of SSD. Bioinformatic examination of the deletions/duplications identified four SVs with substantial functional consequences (cytobands 2q24.3, 6p12.3-6p12.2, 11q23.2-11q23.3, and 16p11.2). Of these, the 16p11.2 deletion is the most well-established variant that causes a broad array of neurological features. These discoveries show that SVs are a heterogeneous, but prevalent cause of CAS, identifiable by standard genetic testing.
A High Schottky Barrier iTFET with Control Gate for Low Power Application
Authors: Lin Jyi-Tsong , Tse Ho-Hin
Published: May 2023

This research presents a simulated device structure for an Inductive Line Tunneling Tunnel Field-Effect Transistor (iTFET) with a high Schottky barrier and a control gate. We based our design process on real-world production components, factored in actual processing steps, and verified all software parameters to ensure the study's close alignment with practical manufacturing scenarios. Our configuration employs Silicon Germanium (SiGe), a narrow-bandgap semiconductor known for its cost-effectiveness, mature technology, and ability to enhance electron tunneling. We implemented Schottky Barrier Height (SBH) modulation engineering to increase the ON- state current (ION) by integrating an electrode into the semiconductor via Schottky contact. To further optimize the device performance, a control gate was included between the source and drain regions. This modification increased the ION and reduced the OFF-state current (IOFF) through the manipulation of the electric field. The simulation results demonstrated an average subthreshold swing (SSAVG) of 31.5 mV/dec, an ION of 4.96x10-6 A/μm, and an ION/IOFF ratio of 1.1x108 at a VDS of 0.2V, indicating a remarkably low subthreshold swing. These outcomes highlight the feasibility of utilizing a low thermal budget approach to fabricate high-performing TFETs that are well-suited for economical and low-energy applications.
Comparison of the Clinical Outcomes of Tight-Rope technique and Clavicular Hook Plate in Treating Acute Acromioclavicular Joint Dislocation
Authors: Chen Chang , Li Wen , Chen Ge , Yin Yiran , Zhang Dexiang , Zhong Xiao
Published: May 2023

Objectives: To investigate and compare the clinical outcomes of acute acromioclavicular joint (ACJ)
dislocations treated by the Tight-Rope (TR) technique and clavicle hook plate (CHP).
Methods: 34 patients with acute ACJ dislocation was treated by using TR technique in 16 patients (9 males, 5 females; mean age 38 years) and CHP in 20 patients (15 males, 5 females; mean age 33 years). Radiological and functional evaluations were routinely conducted with 1 year postoperatively. The mean follow up was 14.7 months.
Results: All patients were statistically significant improvement in the constant score (CS), coracoclavicular (CC) distance, visual analogue scale (VAS) score at the last follow-up (P < 0.001). Compared with the CHP group, TR technique group had statistically significant shorter incision, length of stay, blood loss and subjective satisfactory score. (P < 0.001); The CS, CC distance and VAS score had no significant difference between two groups at the end of follow-up (P > 0.05). Patients who underwent CHP had a higher incidence of wound issue, osteolysis and osteoarthritisthan, while TR group had higher risk of re-dislocations.
Conclusions: This study showed equivalent clinical efficacy of the TR and CHP techniques, with slightly different results including complications. We suggest that the choice of treatment for acute ACJ dislocation should be individually considered.
Enhancing podocyte degenerative changes recognition in glomerular images using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Barros George Oliveira , Silva José Nathan Andrade Muller da , Proença Henrique Machado de Sousa , Araújo Stanley Almeida , Wanderley David Campos , de Oliveira Luciano Rebouças , dos-Santos Washington Luis Conrado , Duarte Angelo Amâncio , Vidal Flávio de Barros
Published: May 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Effects of Digital Resources on Digital Transformation in the Current Digital Age: The Moderating Role of Organizational Slack
Authors: BABALOLA EMMANUEL Olusola , Bo Wu
Published: May 2023

Implementing digital transformation in industrial enterprises is a challenging task, necessitating a deeper understanding of the variables that can facilitate its successful accomplishment. This study aims to explore the mechanisms through which organizations can constellate and maintain digital resources to build the capabilities required for effective digital transformation, with a particular focus on the moderating effects of organizational slack. The study provides empirical support for established theoretical perspectives, such as resource-based theory and dynamic capabilities, emphasizing the importance of leveraging digital resources and dynamic capabilities to achieve digital transformation. To investigate these relationships, we adopted an empirical model using a quantitative research approach with secondary data. The random effect negative binomial regression approach was chosen for analysis. Our sample comprised 3,229 industrial enterprises, generating 32,290 observations from the period spanning 2012 to 2021, sourced from the China stock market and accounting research database. Our findings confirmed our hypothesis, revealing that digital resources and dynamic capabilities are significant predictors of digital transformation accomplishment. Additionally, we discovered that digital resources have a direct impact on dynamic capability, and dynamic capability partially mediates the relationship between digital resources and digital transformation. Moreover, external organizational slack (OS_EXT) emerged as a significant moderator, negatively influencing the impact of digital resources and dynamic capabilities on digital transformation. These research findings offer actionable knowledge to industrial leaders, practitioners, and policymakers, empowering them to make informed strategic decisions and enhance the potential for successful digital transformation in industrial enterprises. Notably, this research contributes to the study of digital transformation, specifically in the context of the top seven Chinese provinces. Despite the challenges associated with transitioning from an industrial source to an industrial powerhouse, this study sheds light on the combined influence of organizational slack, digital resources, and dynamic capabilities as variables within a unified prediction model.
Determination of compounds with laxative action in aloe latex and aloe vera-based products - Chemometric classification of aloe vera plants (Aloe Barbadensis Miller) under different conditions
Authors: Ioannou Georgia D. , Christou Atalanti , Stavrou Ioannis J. , Kapnissi-Christodoulou Constantina P.
Published: May 2023

The bioactive compounds of latex in aloe vera are associated with several of its medicinal properties. Aloe emodin, aloins A and B, which are present in aloe latex, are known for their laxative action. This study aims to develop a simple HPLC method for the determination of compounds with purgative effect. The correlation of these compounds according to the plant conditions and the position of the leaf in the plant was also evaluated. Aloe vera plants under different conditions and thirteen aloe-based products were analyzed by HPLC-DAD combined with chemometrics. Each leaf from the plants was studied separately for its content in compounds with a laxative effect. The developed method was performed with a C18 column and the total analysis time was 22 minutes. It was observed that, in contrast with field-cultivation plants, the concentrations of aloins in potted plants follow a specific pattern based on the position of the leaves. It was also observed that climatic and environmental conditions have a significant impact on the concentrations of aloins. Principal Component Analysis was performed to evaluate correlations among measurements. The model was able to separate the aloe plants based on their seasonal variation and growing conditions. Finally, it was observed that, in only two out of thirteen products, aloins were present, with the total content exceeded the maximum levels set by EU legislation. The present work provides useful information for the aloins variation among leaves in different position and plants under various conditions.
Designing for implementation: planning and evaluation of a clinical exercise oncology program
Authors: Fairman Ciaran , Harrington Shana , Schumpp Alec , Brooks Alex , Jones Morgan , Kim Julian , Kennedy Mary
Published: May 2023

Purpose
This project aimed to design and evaluate an exercise oncology intervention with a long-term goal of integration into standard practice in a local healthcare system.
Methods
This two-phase study used a mixed-methods approach. First, qualitative measures were used to understand the context for exercise integration into oncology care by clinicians and administrators in the healthcare system. Next, the Reach, Effectiveness, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance (RE-AIM) framework guided a comprehensive evaluation of the exercise service. Reach and Adoption were measured via number of patients enrolled in the program relative to those treated. Adoption was measured via referrals from stakeholders. Implementation was described using the program structure and delivery. Maintenance was described using hospital funding decisions. Effectiveness was assessed using the Bellarmine Norton Assessment Tool (BNAT) and Functional Assessment of Cancer Therapy – Fatigue Scale.
Results
Phase 1 qualitative data suggested critical elements to guide program delivery, including limiting participants to post-primary treatment (surgery, chemotherapy and radiation and streamlining referral process. The Phase 2 evaluation demonstrated suboptimal program reach (2%); significant program effectiveness (improvemed physical function (BNAT; p = 0.05 ) and decreased fatigue (p < 0.05)); receptiveness to program adoption (75%); and strong potential for program maintenance.
Conclusion
Traditional approaches to exercise oncology research trials are not easily integrated into healthcare systems. Designing an exercise program for meaningful integration and sustainment requires understanding the context where the program will be delivered, followed by intentional and continuous engagement with key stakeholders to ensure the program continues to meet the needs of the system.
Assessment of cropping patterns of Atractylodes lancea by mass spectrum metabolomics
Authors: Wang Mengdi , Yin Min , Yong Xuhong , Jing Shoutao , Feng Xu , Wang Qizhi
Published: May 2023

Background: Atractylodes lanceapossesses immense potential for application in pharmaceuticals, food and health products, cosmetics, and agricultural production. However, due to the depletion of natural resources, researchers are investigating high-yield and efficient cropping models for Atractylodes. Until now, the differences and changes of chemical constituents in Atractylodes under different cropping patterns and growth years have been very limited, so further exploration and research are needed.
Materials and methods: Raw materials for Atractylodes are supplied by Maoshan Traditional Chinese Medicine Planting Company, a laboratory cooperative planting site. The standard product is provided by China Institute of Food and Drug Control. The samples and standards were dissolved in methanol for analysis during October-December 2022. Tests were performed by utrl high performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-Q/TOF-MS) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) for quantitative and metabolomic analysis. Stoichiometric analysis and metabolic pathway analysis were conducted based on mass spectrometry
Results: After conducting content tests, it was discovered that the intercropped biennial Atractylodescontained the required 3% or more atractylodin. After testing, Atractylodes lancea samples did not contain phorate pesticides. On this basis, 411 volatile metabolites were extracted and identified, while 111 secondary metabolites were identified. 36 volatile metabolites and 26 secondary metabolites showed significant differences between the two cropping patterns and different growth years. Through metabolic pathway enrichment analysis, it was found that volatile metabolites had significant differences in the biosynthesis of unsaturated fatty acids pathway.
Conclusions: The biennial intercropping approach, yielded Atractylodes extracts with content levels that were 1.8, 1.9, and 2.3 times higher than those derived from biennial monocrop, annual intercrop, and annual monocrop, respectively. It was also found that secondary metabolites more accurately reflected the distinctions brought about by the different cropping patterns and growth periods in Atractylodes. Hence, this experiment holds significant value as a reference for developing environmentally sustainable agricultural practices for growing this herb. It can also be used to establish an authentic production area model and for the evaluation of herb quality.
Investigation of Morphological and Optical Characteristics of (PMMA/PS/Al 2 O 3 ) Nanocomposites and Its Application as Antibacterial
Authors: Nayef Fatima Mohammad , Rabee Bahaa H.
Published: May 2023

The casting method prepared a nanocomposite of a (PMMA/PS) polymeric blend with the nanomaterial (Al2O3). The morphological, optical, and antibacterial characteristics were studied. The optical microscope photos demonstrated high homogeneity, fine dispersal of Al2O3 NPs inside the blend polymer films, and the formation of a charge transfer complex. SEM images showed agglomeration of a small and close-packed group of elliptical particles on the surface of the polymeric matrix as a result of adding a different number of NPs. The absorbance increases with the increasing concentration of Al2O3, the additive, while the transmittance reductions with the rising content. The optical constant of PMMA/PS/Al2O3 nanocomposites were also tested. The energy gap of indirect transitions (allowed, forbidden) reduces with increases in the concentration of Al2O3 nanoparticles. The nanocomposite films have antibacterial activity for Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli.
Iranian livestock breeders' knowledge, attitude, practice and behavioral determinants related to Brucellosis prevention
Authors: Bahadori Farhad , Ghofranipour Fazlollah , Zarei Fatemeh , Saeideh Ghaffarifar
Published: May 2023

Background
Brucellosis is a bacterial zoonotic disease that affects animals and humans. Its transmission to humans can occur through various routes such as consumption of infected animal products or unprotected close contact with secretions or different parts of live or dead infected animals. This study aims to report Iranian livestock breeders’ awareness, attitude, practice, and behavioral determinants related to Brucellosis prevention.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2019 among 450 livestock breeders in Beyraq, a suburb of Tabriz metropolitan city. The Brucellosis Prevention Questionnaire (BPQ) was used to collect data, with statistical analysis performed using SPSS-23. The BPQ, consisting of 53 items, had acceptable psychometric properties (Content Validity Index = 0.90, Content Validity Ratio = 0.74, Impact Score = 4.30, Intra-class Correlation Coefficient = 0.885, Composite Reliability = 0.895, and Standard Error of Measurement = 5.448).
Results
The study included 450 livestock breeders with a mean age of 51.68 ± 16.4 years and a mean household size of 6.47 ± 2.25. Participants who had a previous history of Brucellosis reported an average occurrence of 7.03 ± 5.83 years ago. Livestock breeders had moderate knowledge levels (mean score = 17.13) and positive attitudes (mean score = 3.86) towards Brucellosis prevention, but their practice level was relatively low (mean score = 15.9). Significant differences were observed in awareness (p-value < 0.001), attitude (p-value = 0.03), and practice (p-value < 0.001) scores between those who had undergone previous prevention measures compared to those who did not. Participants with a higher education level had higher awareness, attitude, and practice scores. An analysis of variance test (ANOVA) showed that job level had a significant effect on awareness (p-value < 0.001) and practice (p-value < 0.001) scores, with free jobs having higher scores than other jobs.
Conclusion
Our findings suggest that Iranian livestock breeders have insufficient knowledge about Brucellosis prevention despite positive attitudes and practices. To prevent the spread of Brucellosis, it is necessary to increase awareness and educate livestock breeders about preventive measures.
Assessment of the Health Benefits of Calcium and Magnesium Enrichment in Drinking Water: A Case Study in Kokava nad Rimavicou, Slovak Republic.
Authors: Rapant Stanislav , Cvečková Veronika , Čermák Patrik , Hajduk Igor , Jurkovič Ľubomír
Published: May 2023

In the village of Kokava nad Rimavicou, we enriched the drinking water with Ca and Mg using a recarbonatization reactor (RR). In the RR, carbonate rock is dissolved using CO2. In the RR, we produce a concentrate with a Ca and Mg content of approximately 100 mg l− 1, which is then added directly to the water reservoir at a ratio of approximately 1:10. On average, the Ca and Mg content in the drinking water increased by 10–15 mg l− 1. Subsequently, we monitored the positive effect of the increased Ca and Mg content in the drinking water by measuring the arterial stiffness of the residents, which characterizes the state of the cardiovascular system of people. We measured the arterial stiffness four times in six-month intervals. The first time was before the start of the enrichment of the drinking water with Ca and Mg, and subsequently three times after the enrichment. The increased content of Ca and Mg in the drinking water resulted in a significant improvement in the arterial stiffness. The arterial age of the people improved by approximately ten years, and the speed of the pulse wave velocity decreased by 0.9 m s− 1.