bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying Tidal versus Non-tidal stresses in Driving Time-Varying Fluxes of Enceladus’ Plume Eruptions
Authors: Schoenfeld Ashley Marie , Yin An
Published: November 2023

One of the most important questions in planetary-tectonics research is whether endogenic stresses, such as mantle convection on Earth, play a significant role in governing global tectonic evolution of a solar-system body. In this study, we investigate the relative importance of endogenic vs. exogenic stresses in controlling the spatial location and temporal variation of active ice-shell deformation on Enceladus, which is expressed by cyclic plume eruptions along active fault zones (i.e., the tiger stripes). Although the variation of the eruption flux on Enceladus follows the periodicity of the diurnal tide, it remains unclear why there is a consistent phase delay of the observed peak eruption when compared to the predicted peak tidal stress. Here, we explore whether endogenic stresses in the ice shell are capable of explaining this observed phase delay. To achieve this goal, we performed geologic mapping along the tiger-stripe faults that host the erupting plumes. Using the fault kinematics established from our mapping, we determine the general stress state (i.e., the principal-stress directions) along the tiger-stripe faults. This knowledge in turn forms the basis for inferring the most likely plume-eruption mechanism. Our mapping shows that the tiger-stripe fractures are not tensile cracks but are instead left-slip fault zones locally displaying extensional fissures. This insight leads to a hypothesis that strike-slip faults and their local tensile cracks experience simultaneous shear and tensile failure, and that the tensional opening reaches maximum at the time of the peak plume flux. We quantified this hypothesis using a stress decomposition model that assesses (1) the relative importance in magnitude between the tectonic stress and tidal stress exerted on the tiger-stripe faults and (2) the role of ice-shell properties such the shear and tensile strengths and ice-shell thickness in controlling the eruption phase delay. Using laboratory-determined ice strengths and the best estimate of the ice-shell thickness at the South Polar Terrain of Enceladus, which hosts the tiger-stripe faults, our model results indicate that the endogenic tectonic stress is comparable in magnitude to the tidal stress. Although we cannot rule out warm-ice convection, true polar wander, and non-synchronous rotation as causes of endogenic stresses, the large variation in ice-shell thickness makes the lateral gravitational-potential gradient the most plausible source of the endogenic stress required by our model results.
Electro-driven direct lithium extraction from geothermal brines to generate battery-grade lithium hydroxide
Authors: Liu Xitong , Kong Lingchen , Yan Gangbin , Hu Kejia , Yu Yongchang , Conte Nicole , McKenzie Kevin , Wagner Michael , Boyes Stephen , Chen Hanning , Liu Chong
Published: November 2023

As Li-ion batteries are increasingly being deployed in electric vehicles and grid-level energy storage, the demand for Li is growing rapidly. Extracting lithium from unconventional aqueous sources such as geothermal brines plays an important role in meeting this demand. Electrochemical intercalation offers high Li selectivity and avoids the use of harsh chemical regenerants, thus holding great promise in directly extracting lithium from unconventional sources. In this work, we design an integrated electrochemical process that achieves selective lithium extraction from geothermal brine, purification of lithium chloride, and conversion to lithium hydroxide. The lithium extraction process utilizes a lithium-intercalation electrode, LiFePO4 (LFP), as the working electrode coupled with an activated carbon electrode as the counter electrode. A 91% purity LiCl is extracted from simulated Salton Sea geothermal brine containing 42 mM Li+, 3.1 M Na+ (Li/Na molar ratio 1:74), 1070 mM Ca2+, and 540 mM K+, and a further purification step achieves a pure LiCl solution with no Na detected. Subsequently, lithium hydroxide is further produced through a bipolar membrane electrodialysis system and finally crystallized to obtain battery grade (> 99.5% purity) LiOH•H2O solid. We investigated the selectivity of lithium separation in solutions with different cation concentration ratios as well as in synthetic geothermal brines. We further conducted density-functional theory (DFT) calculations to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the high Li selectivity of olivine FePO4 in aqueous solution. Finally, we conducted techno-economic assessments using a parametric model and estimated the levelized cost of produced LiOH•H2O (LCOL) as 4.1 $/kg LiOH•H2O, which is 6 times lower than the current market price. The results demonstrate the great potential of our technology for electro-driven, chemical-free lithium extraction from unconventional sources.
Grounded theory in medical education studies: To delay or not the literature review?
Authors: Yazdani Shahram , bayazidi snor , afshari poorandokht
Published: November 2023

Introduction: for those who adopt Grounded theory method, the question of how and when to interact with the existing literature often remains problematic. This study was conducted to find the most appropriate time for reviewing texts in educational research based on grounded theory.
Methodology: This was a narrative review. A search was done in the following scientific databases: Science Direct, Scopus, PubMed, ERIC, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 88 articles were obtained of which there remained 13 full-text studies, and the findings of the present study were extracted and analyzed based on these 13 studies.
Results: The main figures in grounded theory research is how and when to start the literature review. Glaser suggests reading the literature of different disciplines except the main field of research at the beginning of the research process. Strauss and Corbin support reviewing the literature at the beginning of the study. Charmaz's allows for a primary review of the literature before the study starts. Clarke does not believe in delayed literature review. As far as education is concerned, Robert Thornberg (approach’s called informed grounded theory.), a pioneer in education research, is of the opinion that an updated literature review at the beginning of the research can develop the transferability and reliability of any theory.
Conclusion: Apart from Glaser, other researchers seem to believe in reviewing the literature at the beginning of the research process. By introducing informed grounded theory, educational theorists recommend conducting literature review research-initially.
Analysis of the interaction between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity and screen time on psychological symptoms among college students: a cross-sectional survey based on six geographic regions in China
Authors: Deng Guo-feng , Wen Yuan , Cheng Jun , Huang Bo , Liu Ningling
Published: November 2023

Background
Declining physical activity and increasing screen time (ST) among adolescents have become major concerns for scholars, while mental health problems are on the rise. Previous studies have confirmed the association between physical activity and screen time and psychological symptoms, but it is unclear how their interaction affects psychological symptoms, especially for Chinese university students who have a high proportion of psychological symptoms, and no research evidence has been found.
Methods
This study investigated physical activity, screen time, and psychological symptoms in 11,173 university students aged 19–22 years in six regions of China. A binary logistic regression analysis was used to analyze the association between moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and screen time and psychological symptoms. And the generalize linear model (GLM) analysis was used to further analyze the association between MVPA and screen time interaction and psychological symptoms.
Results
The detection rate of psychological symptoms among Chinese university students was 16.3%, with a higher percentage of female students (17.5%) than male students (14.7%). The proportion of male students (8.2%) with MVPA > 60 min/d was higher than that of female students (2.3%), and the proportion of male students (33.8%) and female students (34.5%) with screen time > 2 h/d was basically the same. The generalize linear model (GLM) analysis showed that university students with MVPA < 30 min/d and screen time > 2 h/d (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.10–2.31) had the highest risk of psychological symptoms (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.10–2.31) compared to university students with MVPA > 60 min/d and screen time < 1 h/d as the reference group. The risk of psychological symptoms was the highest among those with MVPA < 30 min/d and screen time > 2 h/d (OR = 1.59,95% CI: 1.10–2.31). In addition, university students with MVPA > 60 min/d and a screen time of 1–2 h/d (OR = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.03–0.25) had the lowest risk of psychological symptoms (P < 0.001). The same trend was observed for both male and female students.
Conclusion
Chinese university students have a certain proportion of psychological symptom problems, and there is a significant interaction between MVPA and screen time and psychological symptoms, and the same trend exists for both male and female students. Chinese university students should perform MVPA for not less than 60 minutes a day, and at the same time control the duration of screen time, and screen time should be controlled between 1–2 hours a day, which has a better promotion effect on psychological health.
Differential transcriptional invasion signatures from patient derived organoid models define a functional prognostic tool for head and neck cancer
Authors: Derksen Patrick , Haughton Peter , Prekovic Stefan , Haakma Wisse , Driehuis Else , Clevers Hans , Willems Stefan
Published: November 2023

Clinical outcome for patients suffering from head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) remains poor. This is mostly due to highly invasive tumors that cause loco-regional relapses after initial therapeutic intervention. The molecular pathways governing the detrimental invasive growth modes in HNSCC remain however understudied. Here, we have established HNSCC patient derived organoid (PDO) models that recapitulate 3-dimensional invasion in vitro. Single cell mRNA sequencing was applied to study the differences between non-invasive and invasive conditions, and in a collective versus single cell invading PDO model. Differential expression analysis under invasive conditions in Collagen gels reveals an overall upregulation of a YAP-centered transcriptional program, irrespective of the invasion mode. However, we find that collectively invading HNSCC PDO cells show elevated levels of YAP transcription targets when compared to single cell invasion. Also, collectively invading cells are characterized by increased nuclear translocation of YAP within the invasive strands, which coincides with Collagen-I matrix alignment at the invasive front. Using gene set enrichment analysis, we identify immune cell-like migratory pathways in the single cell invading HNSCC PDO, while collective invasion is characterized by overt upregulation of adhesion and migratory pathways. Lastly, based on a clinical head and neck cancer cohort, we demonstrate that the identified collective invasion signature provides a candidate prognostic platform for survival in HNSCC. By uncoupling collective and single cell invasive programs, we have established invasion signatures that may guide new therapeutic options.
Accumulation and health effects of endocrine disrupting metals in ground and surface water in Lagos and Ogun, Nigeria
Authors: Oluwole Ojo , Adeniyi Adeleke
Published: November 2023

Endocrine disrupting metals (EDMs) pose serious health challenges like goiter, diabetes, poor libido/irregular menstrual cycles and abnormal weight distribution. Studies have revealed that pollution of water sources has elevated levels of EDMs. 324 ground and surface water samples were collected from selected urban locations in Lagos and Ogun States. Sampling was done to cover both rain and dry seasons. The instrument used was hazardous effects of metals in water questionnaire (HEMWQ), pH meter and atomic absorption spectrophotometer were the laboratory equipment used. Health risk assessment was done using the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) model. Spatial pattern and seasonal variation affect the concentration of EDMs in the study locations. The values for ground water during the rain and dry season (µg/L) for cadmium and lead ranged from not detected to 2.17 ± 2.22 and 0.33 ± 0.82 to 23.33 ± 36.70. Thus, surface water values (µg/L) are 0.33 ± 0.82 to 16.67 ± 25.82 (cadmium), and 0.50 ± 1.22 to 20.00 ± 31.62 (lead) respectively. The health risk index (HRI) of cadmium and lead in the sample locations for children and adults are less than the threshold value of 1. Continuous monitoring of endocrine disrupting metal to identify pollution sources is recommended.
Hyperuricemia and Intravenous Fat Emulsion are Risk Factors for Gout Flares During Active Gastrointestinal Bleeding: A Case Control Study
Authors: Jiang Yujie , Hong Xuelian , Xia Bingtian , Du Hongwei
Published: November 2023

Objective
It is well-established that patients with a history of gout are more susceptible to experiencing gastrointestinal bleeding. Gout flare during active gastrointestinal bleeding poses a significant challenge due to the gastrointestinal side effects of anti-inflammatory therapy. This study sought to investigate the risk factors associated with gout flares during episodes of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Methods
We conducted a retrospective observational study involving 94 patients who experienced active gastrointestinal bleeding and had a history of gout. This study was conducted at Jinhua Municipal Central Hospital from January 2019 to October 2022. We collected and recorded demographic information and clinical characteristics.
Results
Among the gout flare patients, hyperuricemia and intravenous fat emulsion therapy were more prevalent compared to those who remained stable (81.6% vs. 57.8% and 46.9% vs. 24.4%, p < 0.05). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that both hyperuricemia (odds ratio 2.741, 95% CI 1.014–7.413, p = 0.047) and intravenous fat emulsion therapy (odds ratio 2.645, 95% CI 1.046–6.686, p = 0.040) were independent predictors of gout flares. Furthermore, gout attacks occurred sooner in patients receiving intravenous fat emulsion therapy compared to those not receiving it (median: 4 days (interquartile range: 2) vs. median: 5 days (interquartile range: 2.25), p = 0.049).
Conclusion
Our study revealed a high incidence of gout flares during episodes of active gastrointestinal bleeding, with patients undergoing intravenous fat emulsion therapy and those with hyperuricemia being at increased risk.
Twin Bounded Support Vector Machine with Capped Pinball Loss
Authors: Wang Huiru , Hong Xiaoqing , Zhang Siyuan
Published: November 2023

In this paper, we propose a novel classifier termed as twin bounded support vector machine with capped pinball loss (CPin-TBSVM), which has the excellent properties of being insensitive to noise. Given that the proposed model is non-convex, we use the convex-concave procedure algorithm (CCCP) to solve a series of two smaller-sized quadratic programming problems to find the optimal solution. In the process of solving the iterative sub-problem, the dual coordinate descent method (DCDM) is used for speeding up solving optimization problems. Moreover, we analyze its theoretical properties, including that the capped pinball loss satisfies Bayes’ rule and CPin-TBSVM has certain noise insensitivity and sparsity. The properties are verified on an artificial dataset as well. The numerical experiment is conducted on 24 UCI datasets and the results are compared with four other models which include SVM, TSVM, Pin-GTSVM and TPin-TSVM. The results show that the proposed CPin-TBSVM has a better classification effect and noise insensitivity.
Transcutaneous spinal stimulation provides characterization of neurological status in individuals with tetraplegia
Authors: Oh Jeonghoon , Scheffler Michelle S. , Martin Catherine A. , Dinh Jenny , Sheynin Jony , Steele Alexander G. , Sayenko Dimitry G.
Published: November 2023

Transcutaneous spinal stimulation (TSS) is emerging as a valuable tool for electrophysiological and clinical assessment. This study had the objective of examining the recruitment patterns of upper limb (UL) motor pools through the delivery of TSS above and below a spinal lesion. It also aimed to explore the connection between the recruitment pattern of UL motor pools and the neurological and functional status following spinal cord injury (SCI). In eight participants with tetraplegia due to cervical SCI, TSS was delivered to the cervical spinal cord between the spinous processes of C3-C4 and C7-T1 vertebrae, and spinally evoked motor potentials in UL muscles were characterized. We found that responses observed in UL muscles innervated by motor pools below the level of injury demonstrated relatively reduced sensitivity to TSS compared to those above the lesion, were asymmetrical in the majority of muscles, and were dependent on the level, extent, and side of SCI. Overall, our findings indicate that electrophysiological data acquired through TSS can offer insights into the extent of UL functional asymmetry, disruptions in neural pathways, and changes in motor control following SCI. This study suggests that such electrophysiological data can supplement clinical and functional assessment and provide further insight regarding residual motor function in individuals with SCI.
Blocking the MIF-CD74 axis augments radiotherapy efficacy for brain metastasis in NSCLC via synergistically promoting microglia M1 polarization
Authors: liu lichao , Wang Jian , Wang Ying , Chen Lingjuan , Peng Ling , Bin Yawen , Ding Peng , Zhang Ruiguang , Tong Fan , Dong Xiaorong
Published: November 2023

Background
Brain metastasis is one of the main causes of recurrence and death in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Although radiotherapy is the main local therapy for brain metastasis, it is inevitable that some cancer cells become resistant to radiation. Microglia, as macrophages colonized in the brain, play an important role in the tumor microenvironment. Our previous study demonstrated that radiotherapy activate microglia to polarize into both the M1 and M2 phenotypes. Therefore, searching for crosstalk molecules within the microenvironment that can specifically regulate the polarization of microglia is a potential strategy for improving radiation resistance.
Methods
We screened genes related to NSCLC brain metastasis through transcriptome analysis. We analyzed the effects of targeted blockade of the MIF/CD74 axis on the polarization and function of microglia during radiotherapy using flow cytometry. The mouse model of brain metastasis was used to assess the effect of targeted blockade of MIF/CD74 axis on the growth of brain metastasis.
Result
Our findings reveals that the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) was identified to be a highly expressed gene in the patients with brain metastasis and further found to be associated with shorter survival time. Mechanistically, we demonstrated CD74 inhibition reversed radiation-induced AKT phosphorylation in microglia and promoted the M1 polarization in combination of radiation. Additionally, blocking the MIF-CD74 interaction between NSCLC and microglia promoted M1 polarization. Furthermore, radiation improved tumor hypoxia to decrease HIF-1α dependent MIF secretion by NSCLC. MIF inhibition enhanced radiosensitivity for brain metastasis via synergistically promoting microglial M1 polarization in vivo.
Conclusions
Our study revealed that targeting the MIF-CD74 axis promoted microglia M1 polarization and synergized with radiotherapy for brain metastasis in NSCLC. Understanding the impact of MIF/CD74 axis on microglia during radiotherapy provides important insights into the dynamic changes and related relationships of microenvironment during tumor treatment. These insights may provide potential strategies for improving radiation resistance
The lncRNA LINC01605 promotes the progression of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma by activating the mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Zhu Yu-Heng , Jia Qin-Yuan , Yao Hong-Fei , Duan Zong-Hao , Ma Xue-Shi-Yu , Zheng Jia-Hao , Yin Yi-Fan , Liu Wei , Zhang Jun-Feng , Hua Rong , Ma Ding , Sun Yong-Wei , Yang Jian-Yu , Liu De-Jun , Huo Yan-Miao
Published: November 2023

Background
This study investigated the molecular mechanism of long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 1605 (LINC01605) in the process of tumor growth and liver metastasis of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC).
Methods
LINC01605 was filtered out with specificity through TCGA datasets (related to DFS) and our RNA-sequencing data of PDAC tissue samples from Renji Hospital. The expression level and clinical relevance of LINC01605 were then verified in clinical cohorts and samples by immunohistochemical staining assay and survival analysis. Loss- and gain-of-function experiments were performed to estimate the regulatory effects of LINC01605 in vitro. RNA-seq of LINC01605-knockdown PDAC cells and subsequent inhibitor-based cellular function, western blotting, immunofluorescence and rescue experiments were conducted to explore the mechanisms by which LINC01605 regulates the behaviors of PDAC tumor cells. Subcutaneous xenograft models and intrasplenic liver metastasis models were employed to study its role in PDAC tumor growth and liver metastasis in vivo.
Results
LINC01605 expression is upregulated in both PDAC primary tumor and liver metastasis tissues and correlates with poor clinical prognosis. Loss and gain of function experiments in cells demonstrated that LINC01605 promotes the proliferation and migration of PDAC cells in vitro. In subsequent verification experiments, we found that LINC01605 contributes to PDAC progression through cholesterol metabolism regulation in a LIN28B-interacting manner by activating the mTOR signaling pathway. Furthermore, the animal models showed that LINC01605 facilitates the proliferation and metastatic invasion of PDAC cells in vivo.
Conclusions
Our results indicate that the upregulated lncRNA LINC01605 promotes PDAC tumor cell proliferation and migration by regulating cholesterol metabolism via activation of the mTOR signaling pathway in a LIN28B-interacting manner. These findings provide new insight into the role of LINC01605 in PDAC tumor growth and liver metastasis as well as its value for clinical approaches as a metabolic therapeutic target in PDAC.
Optimal Design of Armored Vehicle Protective Components under Blast Impact
Authors: Li Mingxing , Fu Tiaoqi , Wang Xianhui , Qin Weiwei , He Jiahao , Yao Tuzao , Sun Xiaowang , Peng Bing , Wu Mengyang
Published: November 2023

Traditional protective structure optimization design processes do not often consider uncertainty factors, such as material properties and structural dimensions. This causes the optimization results to be near the constraint boundaries and leads to insufficient reliability and robustness of the design. In this study, an accurate finite element model was obtained for armored vehicle protective component design through a physical explosion test and a simulation of the whole vehicle. Subsequently, uncertainty optimization, reliability optimization, and robustness optimization were introduced into the optimization process, and the uncertainty optimization results were analyzed and compared for different constraint degrees. The results show that the reliability of the results obtained from traditional deterministic optimization was low. Introducing the reliability optimization and robustness optimization design methods into the protective component design significantly improved the reliability of the protective component results.
PFAS exposure exert negative effects on oocyte yield, fertilization and high-quality embryo in women undergoing IVF
Authors: Shen Juan , Mao Yuchan , Zhang Hongyan , Kang Quanmin , Wang Qijing , Le Fang , Lou Hangying , Zhang Ling , Xiang Xiaomiao , Jin Fan
Published: November 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Could some existing sustainable strategies of Spain's “Paradores Nacionales” be successfully transferred to the UAE's historical buildings?
Authors: Phala Benchaphan
Published: November 2023

The carried research questioned the feasibility of transferring to UAE historical buildings some of the sustainable strategies pursued by the Spanish Hospitality Organisation named Paradores de Turismo de España, (SMESA), on those areas distinguished by been differentiated and sustainable in operations, financially, socially, historically and environmentally. The objective was to find some available global initiatives, evaluate them holistically as elements of a potential model, for thus confirming that in the UAE a similar hospitality concept could be successful, as well as identifying new ideas to lead the way forward. The data collected was secondary, related to global developments in overall sustainability and particularly in those available research documents related to sustainability within tourism & hospitality industry. This research kept present “Paradores”, (as this organisation is usually named), particularities and existing model. The Spanish company leadership, embedded in their mission, vision and values, creative and sustainable initiatives in environmental sustainability, social sustainability, and governance. “Paradores” is recognised for the recovery and maintenance of heritage buildings together with the environmental preservation of their surroundings. The research found that several global initiatives are creating competitive advantages in the hospitality industry. Also, that the hospitality research on sustainability is not sufficient and require for corporate transparency to be effective. Sustainability must reach beyond cost saving initiates and so practice social and environmentally friendly operations. Resources efficiency, responsible industry, new policies, business innovations and life cycle thinking are a must to transform UAE hospitality and make it more sustainable.
Copper-tin nanocomposites-loaded exosomes persuaded skin carcinoma cell apoptosis and arrested cell cycle
Authors: Abd-Rabou Ahmed A. , Kishta Mohamed S. , Yakout Saad M. , Youssef Ahmed M. , Abdallah Ahmed N. , Ahmed Hanaa H.
Published: November 2023

Skin cancer is one of the most prevalent ailments in men that may be provoked by sun exposure. The chemotherapeutic potential of copper (Cu)- and tin (Sn)-based substances against a range of cancers has been studied. Based on the differences in how normal and tumour cells responded, they were utilized as targeted anticancer drugs. In the current study, nanotechnology has revolutionized cancer therapy by introducing Cu and Sn nanocomposites to overcome the drawbacks of the conventional chemotherapy and radiation therapy in terms of effectiveness and adverse effects due to uneven distribution and cytotoxicity. CuS/SnS nanocomposites (S1, S2, S3) were synthesized and characterized, then encapsulated into exosomes (Exo) isolated from bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) and characterized once again. S1-Exo, S2-Exo, and S3-Exo were investigated biologically using cytotoxicity, apoptosis, and cell cycle assays. The The X-ray diffractions analysis of CuS/SnS nanonanocomposites were indexed to hexagonal CuS structure and orthorhombic α-SnS phase. The TEM images of S1 and S3 nanocomposites showed the presence of nanorods particles with average length of 80 nm and diameter of 16 nm. S1-Exo showed superior cytotoxic effect against A431 skin cancerous cells than the free nano-form S1. It was intriguingly that S1-Exo recorded 1.109 times more than DOX in its anticancer activity. Flow cytometry showed that S1-Exo recorded 40.2% early apoptosis and 22.1% late apoptosis. In conclusion, the CuS/SnS nanocomposites loaded into exosomes could be of great potential as anti-skin cancer candidate through induction of cell death-mediated apoptosis
An improved particle swarm optimizer for inverse kinematics of manipulator
Authors: Li Zhentao , Wang Panfeng , Feng Yun , Zhang Guanjun , Guo Zhiyang , Zhang Minghui , Zhang Yi
Published: November 2023

Swarm intelligence optimization algorithms have been proven to significantly improve the efficiency and accuracy of solving inverse kinematics problems for manipulators. This is of great importance for research in the fields of manipulator trajectory tracking control and path optimization. Distinguished from conventional swarm intelligence algorithms, the improved particle swarm algorithm proposed in this study uses adaptive inertia weight and asynchronous learning factors to update the particle speed during particle evolution, better balancing global and local search capabilities. At the same time, the idea of generating new offspring by mutation is introduced into particles to enhance the diversity of the population and reduce the possibility of particles falling into local optima. The algorithm's performance was assessed through its application to 13 classical benchmark functions. The obtained results were subsequently compared with the outcomes of genetic algorithms, particle swarm algorithms, and their respective variations. The results suggest that the improved particle swarm algorithm demonstrates significantly better convergence speed and accuracy on most functions in comparison to alternative algorithms (Wilcoxon rank-sum test, α=0.05). Finally, a collaborative manipulator experimental platform was established to assess the efficacy of the improved particle swarm algorithm in solving the inverse kinematics of the manipulator. The findings suggest that the improved particle swarm algorithm demonstrated superior accuracy in solving the inverse kinematics of the manipulator in a shorter duration, yielding errors of less than 0.1 mm, which lays an important foundation for improving the trajectory tracking control accuracy and path planning efficiency of the manipulator.
Identification of a Functional circRNA-miRNA-mRNA Network and Inhibitory Effect of Hsa_circ_0001681 on Gliomas
Authors: Cheng Lilin , Chen Xu , Sun Wenhua , Hu Xiang , Zhang Shuai , Wu Hui
Published: November 2023

Background
Gliomas seriously threaten the health and safety of patients globally with significant morbidity and mortality. An increasing number of studies have confirmed the close correlation between circular RNAs (circRNAs) and the occurrence and development of cancer. However, the association between circRNAs and their downstream networks with gliomas remains unclear.
Results
Our study identified 4 significantly differentially expressed circRNAs through the glioma expression profile from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. A total of 125 circRNA-targeted microRNAs (miRNAs) were predicted using the Circular RNA Interactome database, 15 of which were selected for further mining from intersection analysis. A total of 2635 miRNA-targeted mRNAs were predicted using the miRNet database, thus establishing the circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. Functional enrichment pathway analyses revealed that the mRNAs contained in the network were enriched in a variety of DNA- or RNA-related transcription regulatory processes and pathways in cancer. Hsa_circ_0001681 was further identified as a hub circRNA and validated by Sanger sequencing and RT-PCR. Cell biology experiments and xenograft models revealed that hsa_circ_0001681 played an anticarcinogenic role in gliomas both in vitro and in vivo.
Conclusions
Our results identified and indicated the crucial role of circRNA-miRNA-mRNA network in gliomas and supported the potential of hsa_circ_0001681 as a diagnostic and therapeutic target biomarker.
Boric Acid Alleviates Periodontal Inflammation Induced by IL-1β in Human Gingival Fibroblasts
Authors: Bozkurt Serife Buket , Hakki Sema S. , Nielsen Forrest H
Published: November 2023

Boric acid (BA) has been found to have therapeutic effects on periodontal disease through beneficially affecting antibacterial, anti-viral, and anti-inflammatory actions. Thus, a study was conducted to determine the effect of BA on cell viability and on mRNA expressions of proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines and on oxidative stress enzymes induced by IL-1β (1ng/mL) in Human Gingival Fibroblasts (HGF) cultured for 24 and 72 hours in DMEM media. The BA concentrations added to the media were 0.09%, 0.18%, 0.37%, and 0.75%. All of the BA concentrations increased the viability of cell cultured in DMEM media only, indicating that these concentrations were not toxic and actually beneficial to cell viability. The addition of 1 ng/m: of IL-1β decreased cell viability that was overcome by all concentrations of BA at both 24 and 72 hours. The IL-1β addition to the media increased the expressions of the proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-17; the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10; and the oxidative stress enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD0 and glutathione peroxidase (GPX). The IL-1β induced increase mRNA expression of IL-1β was decreased at 24 hours by the 0.37% and 0.75% BA additions to the media and decreased in a dose-dependent manner by all concentrations of BA at 72 hours. The IL-1β induced increase in the expression of IL-6 was decreased in dose-dependent manner at 72 hours by BA. All BA concentrations decreased the IL-1β induced expression of IL-8 at both 24 and 72 hours. The induced increase in IL-17 by IL-1β was not significantly affected by the BA additions. The increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL10 induced by IL-1β was increased further by all BA additions in dose dependent manner at both 24 and 72 hours. The mRNA expressions of SOD and GPX increased by IL-1β were further increased by the 0.37% and 0.75% BA concentrations at 72 hours. These findings indicate that BA can significantly modulate the cytokines that are involved in inflammatory stress and reactive oxygen species action and thus could be an effective therapeutic agent in the treatment of periodontal disease.
Biomechanical Effects of Evans versus Hintermann Osteotomy for Treating Adult Acquired Flatfoot Deformity: A Patient-Specific Finite Element Investigation
Authors: Xu Can , Liu Hua , Li Mingqing , Li Hui , Pan Chunang
Published: November 2023

Background
Evans and Hintermann lateral column lengthening (LCL) procedures are both widely used to correct adult acquired flatfoot deformity (AAFD), and have both shown good clinical results. The aim of this study was to compare these two procedures in terms of corrective ability and biomechanics influence on the Chopart and subtalar joints through finite element (FE) analysis.
Methods
Twelve patient-specific FE models were established and validated. The Hintermann osteotomy was performed between the medial and posterior facets of the subtalar joint, while the Evans osteotomy was performed on the anterior neck of the calcaneus around 10 mm from the calcaneocuboid joint surface. In each procedure, a triangular wedge of varying size was inserted at the lateral edge. The two procedures were then compared based on the measured strains of superomedial calcaneonavicular ligaments and planter facia, the talus-first metatarsal angle, and the contact characteristics of talonavicular, calcaneocuboid and subtalar joints.
Results
The Hintermann procedure achieved a greater correction of the talus-first metatarsal angle than Evans when using grafts of the same size, indicating that Hintermann had stronger corrective ability. However, its distributions of von-Mises stress in the subtalar, talonavicular and calcaneocuboid joints were less homogeneous than those of Evans. In addition, the strains of superomedial calcaneonavicular ligaments and planter facia of Hintermann were also greater than those of Evans, but both generally within the safe range (less than 6%).
Conclusion
This FE analysis study indicates that both Evans and Hintermann procedures have good corrective ability for AAFD. Compared to Evans, Hintermann can provide a stronger corrective effect while causing greater disturbance to the biomechanics of Chopart joints, which may be an important mechanism of arthritis.
Clinical Relevance:
Both Evans and Hintermann LCL surgeries have a considerable impact on adjacent joints and ligament tissues. Such effects alongside the overcorrection problem should be cautiously considered when choosing the specific surgical method.
Level of Evidence:
Level III, case-control study.
Theft Detection using Deep Learning
Authors: Shirole Sairaj
Published: November 2023

In earlier times, crime detection relied solely onhuman observation, lacking efficient methods for detection. Theadvent of CCTV cameras marked a significant advancement incrime detection, but the manual review of video footage byhumans proved to be a time-consuming process. In presentworld, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML)have made significant strides, the need for intelligent systems toautomate crime detection in CCTV surveillance has becomeparamount. Such systems can not only detect crimes but alsoclassify them and provide alerts to nearby police stations andambulances, thereby contributing to the reduction of crimerates in any given country. Object detection and tracking incomputer vision have gained widespread attention due to theirdiverse applications, including surveillance and securitysystems. Researchers have diligently worked to improve theaccuracy and efficiency of these processes. Our system aims toenhance security measures and facilitate swift responses topotential threats by employing real-time object detection on livevideo feeds. Furthermore, this system can be further optimizedthrough the integration of specialized hardware, ensuring evenmore robust and efficient crime detection capabilities.
ATF4 as a Prognostic Marker and Modulator of Glutamine Metabolism in Estrogen Receptor Positive Breast Cancer
Authors: Patel Roshni , Alfarsi Lutfi H. , Ansari Rokaya El , Masisi Brendah K. , Erkan Busra , Fakroun Ali , Ellis Ian O. , Rakha Emad A. , Green Andrew R.
Published: November 2023

Purpose:
ATF4, a stress-responsive transcription factor that upregulates adaptive genes, is a potential prognostic marker and modulator of glutamine metabolism in breast cancer. However, its exact role remains to be elucidated.
Methods:
ATF4 expression was evaluated at genomic and transcriptomic levels using METABRIC (n=1980), GeneMiner (n=4712) and KM-Plotter datasets. Proteomic expression was assessed via immunohistochemistry (n=1341) in the Nottingham Primary Breast Carcinoma Series. ATF4 genomic copy number (CN) variation and mRNA/protein in association with clinicopathological parameters, amino acid transporters (AATs), and patient outcome was investigated.
Results:
Genomic, transcriptomic, and proteomic overexpression of ATF4 was associated with more aggressive ER-negative tumours. ATF4 mRNA and protein expression were significantly associated with increased expression of glutamine related AATs including SLC1A5 (p<0.01) and SLC7A11 (p<0.02). High ATF4 and SLC1A5 protein expression was significantly associated with shorter breast cancer-specific survival (p<0.01), especially in ER+ tumours (p<0.01), while high ATF4 and SLC7A11 protein expression was associated with shorter survival (p<0.01).
Conclusion:
These findings suggest a complex interplay between ATF4 and AATs in breast cancer biology and underscore the potential role for ATF4 as a prognostic marker in ER+ breast cancer, offering a unique opportunity for risk stratification and personalised treatment strategies.
Use of an Antibacterial Mouthwash Alters the Gut Microbiome, Reduces Nutrient Absorption and Attenuates Diet-induced Obesity
Authors: Carlstrom Mattias , Carvalho Lucas , Boeder Ariela , Shimari Miho , Kleshchev Andrey , Esberg Anders , Johansson Ingegerd , Weitzberg Eddie , Lundberg Jon
Published: November 2023

Prolonged use of antibacterial mouthwash is linked to increased risk of systemic disease. We aimed to investigate if disturbing the oral microbiota would impact the lower gut microbiome with functional effects in diet-induced obesity. Mice were exposed to oral chlorhexidine and fed a Western diet. Food intake and weight gain were monitored, and metabolic function, blood pressure and microbiota were analyzed. Chlorhexidine reduced oral bacteria and altered parts of the gut microbiota known to be associated with metabolic pathways. Chlorhexidine reduced weight gain, body fat, steatosis, and plasma insulin without changing caloric intake, while increasing colon triglycerides and proteins demonstrating reduced absorption of these nutrients. The mechanisms behind these effects as well as the link between the oral microbiome and small intestinal function need to be pinpointed. While short-term effects of chlorhexidine in this model appear beneficial, potential long-term disruptions in the oral and gut microbiota and possible malabsorption should be considered.
Neutrophils Seeking New Neighbors - Radiotherapy Affects the Cellular Framework and the Spatial Organization in a Murine Breast Cancer Model
Authors: Reichardt C. M. , Muñoz-Becerra M. , Rigau A. Rius , Rückert M. , Fietkau R. , Schett G. , Gaipl U. , Frey B. , Muñoz L. E.
Published: November 2023

Neutrophils are known to contribute to many aspects of tumor progression and metastasis in cancer. The presence of neutrophils or neutrophil-derived mediators in the tumor microenvironment has been associated with poor prognosis in several types of solid tumors. Nonetheless, the effects of cancer treatments such as radiotherapy on neutrophils has not been studied yet. Furthermore, the cellular composition and distribution of immune cells in the tumor is of increasing interest in cancer research and new imaging technologies allow to perform more complex spatial analyses within tumor tissues. Therefore, we aim to offer novel insight into intra-tumoral formation of cellular neighborhoods and communities in murine breast cancer. We used the TS/A breast cancer tumor model for our analyses. We performed image mass cytometry and spatial neighborhood analyses of the tumor microenvironment and quantified NET-degradation products in serum. We show that radiotherapy of 2x8 Gy significantly alters the cellular composition and spatial organization in the tumor, especially of neutrophils. Locally applied radiotherapy further affects neutrophils in a systemic manner by decreasing the serum neutrophil extracellular trap concentrations which correlates positively with survival. In addition, the intercellular cohesion is maintained after radiotherapy as shown by E-Cadherin expression via the TGF-β/SMAD axis which potentially prevents metastasis. We conclude that radiotherapy-modulated cellular composition and spatial distribution of immune cells, particularly that of neutrophils and macrophages in connection to T cells has to be considered more. This sheds light on potential mechanisms that influence treatment outcomes and metastatic potential of solid tumors such as breast cancer.
Ethanol extract of Alpiniae oxyphyllae fructus regulates glucose metabolism, the HPA axis and hippocampal function in diabetic mice with depression
Authors: Zhou Qilun , Qi Yue , Deng Jinlan , Li Ruonan , Zhang Yongping , Zhang Xiaofeng
Published: November 2023

Background: Alpiniae oxyphyllae fructus (AOF) is the dry ripe fruit of Alpinia oxyphylla Miq. which has significant therapeutic effects in Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, depression, learning and memory dysfunction and other nervous system disease.
Methods: In this study, we established a mouse model of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) combined with depression induced by feeding high fat and high sugar diet combined with intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) and chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) to evaluate the dual therapeutic effects of ethanol extract of AOF (EEA), and further explore the mechanism of EEA on diabetes complicated with depression.
Results: The results showed that EEA improved the body weight of diabetic mice with depression (DD mice). EEA could also improve glucose metabolism and insulin resistance in DD mice. Next, EEA improved the depression-like behaviors of DD mice. EEA also attenuated diabetes and CUMS-induced hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal(HPA) axis and improved the expression of neurotransmitters and synaptic plasticity in the hippocampus of DD mice. In addition, EEA could improve hippocampal tissue damage caused by neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. Further research showed that EEA improved the protein expression and phosphorylation of Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), Protein kinase B (Akt) and Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) in the hippocampus of DD mice.
Conclusions: This study showed that EEA may have a dual role in the treatment of diabetes and depression and provided new scientific theoretical basis for the future development of AOF and the prevention and treatment of diabetes complicated with depression.
Heat transport process associated with the 2021 eruption of Aso volcano revealed by thermal and gas monitoring
Authors: Narita Shohei , Yokoo Akihiko , Ohkura Takahiro , Morita Masaaki , Mori Toshiya , Yoshikawa Shin
Published: November 2023

The thermal activity of a magmatic–hydrothermal system commonly changes at various stages of volcanic activity. Few studies have provided an entire picture of the thermal activity of such a system over an eruptive cycle, which is essential for understanding the subsurface heat transport process that culminates in an eruption. This study quantitatively evaluated a sequence of thermal activity associated with two phreatic eruptions in 2021 at Aso volcano. We estimated plume-laden heat discharge rates and corresponding H2O flux during 2020–2022 by using two simple methods. We then validated the estimated H2O flux by comparison with volcanic gas monitoring results. Our results showed that the heat discharge rate varied substantially throughout the eruptive cycle. During the pre-eruptive quiescent period (June 2020–May 2021), anomalously large heat discharge (300–800 MW) were observed that were likely due to enhanced magma convection degassing. During the run-up period (June–October 2021), there was no evident change in heat discharge (300–500 MW), but this was accompanied by simultaneous pressurization and heating of an underlying hydrothermal system. These signals imply progress of partial sealing of the hydrothermal system. In the co-eruptive period, the subsequent heat supply from a magmatic region resulted in additional pressurization, which led to the first eruption (October 14, 2021). The heat discharge rates peaked (2000–4000 MW) the day before the second eruption (October 19, 2021), which was accompanied by sustained pressurization of the magma chamber that eventually resulted in a more explosive eruption. In the post-eruptive period, enhanced heat discharge (~ 1000 MW) continued for four months, and finally returned to the background level of the quiescent period (< 300 MW) in early March 2022. Thus, despite using simple models, we quantitatively tracked transient thermal activity and revealed the underlying heat transport processes throughout the Aso 2021 eruptive activity.