bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear Dynamics of FG-GNPRC Multiphase Composite Membrane with Internal Pores and Dielectric Properties
Authors: Ni Zhi , Fan Yucheng , Yang Jinlong , Hang Ziyan , Feng Chuang , Yang Jie
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the nonlinear dynamics of the functionally graded graphene nanoplatelet reinforced composite (FG-GNPRC) dielectric and porous membrane subjected to electro-mechanical loading is investigated. The effective material properties of multiphase composites are determined via a two-step hybrid micromechanical model. Based on the hyperelastic membrane theory, Neo-Hookean constitutive model and the couple dielectric theory, the governing equations are obtained using an energy method considering damping and dielectric properties. Taylor series expansion (TSE) and differential quadrature (DQ) methods are utilized to discretize equations, which are then solved numerically by the incremental harmonic balance (IHB) method combined with arc-length continuation technique. The convergence analysis is carried out and the accuracy of the solution method is verified by comparing with the results of previous studies. The influence of the attributes of the internal pore, GNP, the geometric characteristics of membrane, stretching ratio and the applied electric filed on forced vibration and resonance response of the system are analyzed.
Application of Explainable Artificial Intelligence in Alzheimer's Disease Classification: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vimbi Viswan , Shaffi Noushath , Mahmud Mufti , Subramanian Karthikeyan , Hajamohideen Faizal
Published: May 2023

Context: Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the medical domain has achieved remarkable results on various metrics primarily due to recent advancements in computational capabilities. However, AI models used for Computer Aided Diagnosis (CAD) have limited acceptance and trust due to their typical {Blackbox} nature. Consequently, explainable AI (XAI) is needed to justify the trustworthiness of the machine's predictions.
Approach: In this work, we undertake a systematic review based on PRISMA guidelines on research articles investigating Alzheimer's Disease (AD) prediction with XAI for the past decade. The review was driven by carefully formulated research questions (RQ) which helped categorize AI models into different XAI methods(Post-hoc, Ante-hoc, Model-Agnostic, Model-Specific, etc) and frameworks (LIME, SHAP, GradCAM, LRP, etc.).
Summary: This categorisation provides broad coverage of the interpretation spectrum from intrinsic (model-specific, ante-hoc models) to complex patterns (model-agnostic, post-hoc models) and by taking local explanations to a global scope. Additionally, the study categorizes merit in terms of different forms of interpretation to provide in-depth insight into the factors that support the clinical diagnosis of AD. Finally, limitations and open research challenges are outlined, and possible prospects are presented.
The characteristics, distribution and geological significance of alkaline earth elements in Ordovician limestone groundwater in Huaibei coalfield
Authors: Chen Song , Dong Hui
Published: May 2023

In order to understand the characteristics and distribution of alkaline earth elements of groundwater in Ordovician limestone aquifer in Huaibei coalfield, 22 groundwater samples were collected, and concentrations of major ions and alkaline earth metals (Beryllium, Barium and Strontium) were determined, the results showed: all the groundwater samples are alkaline in nature, and the pH value varied between 7.10 and 10.80. The contents of total dissolved solids (TDS) are varied from 119mg/l to 2443 mg/l. The concentrations of Be, Ba and Sr are ranging from 0.0001μg/l to 0.0716μg/l, 1.38μg/l to 54.25μg/l and 12.66μg/l to 2741.7μg/l, respectively. The major ions are mainly controlled by carbonate dissolution, without the ion exchange reaction. The Be content is mainly influenced by the pH value, while the Ba content is controlled by the concentrations of Mg. The Sr in groundwater have the same source with element Ca and Mg, thus, the contour diagram of Sr in groundwater could be used to identify the groundwater runoff conditions. The Taoyuan coal mine and Shitai coal mine are the discharge areas of groundwater in the south and north in Huaibei coalfield, for the highest and second concentrations of Sr. And the highest and second Sr/Ca ratios are 138.1 and 115.47 in Liudian coal mine and Tongting coal mine, respectively, what suggest the groundwater residence time in the two coal mines is long.
Construction of Predictive Model of Interstitial Fibrosis and Tubular Atrophy (IFTA) After Kidney Transplantation with Machine Learning Algorithm
Authors: Yin Yu , Chen Congcong , Zhang Dong , Han Qianguang , Wang Zijie , Huang Zhengkai , Chen Hao , Sun Li , Fei Shuang , Tao Jun , Han Zhijian , Tan Ruoyun , Gu Min , Ju Xiaobing
Published: May 2023

Background: Interstitial fibrosis and tubular atrophy (IFTA) are the histopathological manifestations of CKD and one of the causes of long-term renal loss in transplanted kidneys. The purpose of our study is to screen IFTA-related genes with higher importance scores through Random Forest (RF) and further construct IFTA diagnostic model through Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs).
Methods: We screened all 162 “kidney transplant” related cohorts in the GEO database and obtained 5 data sets (training sets: GSE98320 validation sets: GSE22459, GSE53605 and GSE76882 survival sets: GSE21374). Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis, Gene Ontology (GO), Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG), Random Forest (RF), Artificial Neural Network (ANN), Unsupervised Clustering analysis, CIBERSORT analysis were used to analyze the data.
Results: A total of 108 common DEGs were identified by taking the intersection of the DEGs of our training sets and validation sets. A total of 15 top IFTA-specific DEGs were screened through the RF, then was used to build ANNs models. The model has good performance in both the training sets [GSE98320 (AUC = 0.9560)] and the validation sets [GSE22459 (AUC = 0.720), GSE53605 (AUC =0.938), GSE76882 (AUC = 0.781)], indicating that we have avoided overfitting while improving the accuracy. Furthermore, samples of survival sets are divided into two clusters using consensus clustering algorithm basing on the expression of 15 top IFTA-specific DEGs. We found significant differences between the two subgroups by survival analysis, and further enrichment analysis and immune cell infiltration analysis were conducted to further explore the causes of survival differences.
Conclusion: we identified key biomarkers of IFTA and developed a new IFTA classification model, basing on the combination of RF and ANNs.
Machine learning assisted calibration of stochastic agent-based models for pandemic outbreak analysis
Authors: Panovska-Griffiths Jasmina , Bayley Thomas , Ward Tony , Das Akashaditya , Imeneo Luca , Kerr Cliff , Maskell Simon
Published: May 2023

Mathematical modelling with agent-based models (ABMs) has gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, but their complexity makes efficient and robust calibration to data challenging. We propose an improved method for calibrating ABMs that combines a machine-learning step with Approximate Bayesian Computation (ML-ABC). We showcase its application to Covasim - a stochastic ABM that has been timely and responsively used to model the English COVID-19 epidemic and inform policy at important junctions. We illustrate the advantage of ML-ABC application in calibrating Covasim during the first and the second COVID-19 epidemic waves of 2020 and early 2021, demonstrating that the use of an ML screening step allows us to derive faster and more efficient estimates of the posterior distribution of the Covasim optimal parameters without compromising on accuracy. This is important for generating timely responsive modelling results during an emerging epidemic.
Clinical effect of Nice knot-assisted minimally invasive titanium elastic nail fixation in the treatment of Robinson 2B midshaft clavicular fracture
Authors: Zhang Qingqing , Kang Yongqiang , Ma Yunhong , Zhou Ming , Jia Xueyuan , Lin Fang , Wu Yongwei , Rui Yongjun
Published: May 2023

Background The treatment of completely displaced midshaft clavicle fractures is still controversial, especially Robinson 2B fractures. Titanium elastic nail (TEN) fixation is a good option for simple fractures, but there are no reports on its use in complex fractures. The aim of this study was to present a surgical method using the Nice knot-assisted TEN fixation to treat Robinson 2B midshaft clavicular fractures.Methods A retrospective analysis of 29 patients who underwent fixation with TEN and had a 1-year postoperative follow-up between 2016 and 2020 was performed. The fractures were classified as Robinson type 2B1 in 17 cases and type 2B2 in 12 cases. Length of the incision, postoperative shoulder function, Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score, complications, and second surgical incision length were recorded.Results The length of the incision was 2–6 cm (mean, 3.7 cm). All incisions healed by first intention, and no infection or nerve injury occurred. The Constant score was 92–100 (mean, 96) and the DASH score was 0-6.2 (mean, 2.64). ESIN bending and hypertrophic nonunion occurred in one case (3.4%) and implant irritation occurred in four (13.8%) after operation. Internal fixators were removed at 12–26 months (mean, 14.6 months) after operation, and the length of the second incision was 1-2.5 cm (mean, 1.3 cm).Conclusions Intramedullary clavicle fixation with TEN is an ideal surgical technique. Nice knot-assisted fixation effectively stabilizes multifragmentary fractures, thereby achieving fracture healing. Surgeons should consider this technique in cases of Robinson 2B midshaft clavicular fractures.Trial registration: Retrospectively registered. This study was approved by the Ethics Committee of Wuxi Ninth People's Hospital (LW20220021).
Multi-group Analysis of Compositions of Microbiomes with Covariate Adjustments and Repeated Measures
Authors: Peddada Shyamal , Lin Huang
Published: May 2023

Microbiome differential abundance analysis methods for a pair of groups are well established in the literature. However, many
microbiome studies involve multiple groups, sometimes even ordered groups, such as stages of a disease, and require different types of comparisons. Standard pairwise comparisons are not only inefficient in terms of power and false discovery rates, but they may not address the scientific question of interest. In this paper, we propose a general framework for performing a wide range of multi-group analyses with covariate adjustments and repeated measures. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our methodology through two real data sets. The first example explores the effects of aridity on the soil microbiome, and the second example investigates the effects of surgical interventions on the microbiome of IBD patients.
Optogenetic dissection of RET signaling reveals robust activation of ERK and enhanced filopodia-like protrusions of regenerating axons
Authors: Hyeon Bobae , Lee Heeyoung , Kim Nury , Heo Won Do
Published: May 2023

RET (REarranged during Transfection) is a receptor tyrosine kinase that transduces various external stimuli into biological functions, such as survival and differentiation, in neurons. In the current study, we developed an optogenetic tool for modulating RET signaling, termed optoRET, combining the cytosolic region of human RET with a blue-light–inducible homo-oligomerizing protein. By varying the duration of photoactivation, we were able to dynamically modulate RET signaling. Activation of optoRET recruited Grb2 (growth factor receptor-bound protein 2) and stimulated AKT and ERK (extracellular signal-regulated kinase) in cultured neurons, evoking robust and efficient ERK activation. By locally activating the distal part of the neuron, we were able to retrogradely transduce the AKT and ERK signal to the soma and trigger formation of filopodia-like F-actin structures at stimulated regions through Cdc42 (cell division control 42) activation. Importantly, we successfully modulated RET signaling in dopaminergic neurons of the substantia nigra in the mouse brain. Collectively, our findings suggest that optoRET has potential for treating neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease by promoting the ramification of auxiliary fibers on axon terminals.
Assessment of the Microbiome Diversity in Lakes of the West Kazakhstan Region
Authors: Khabibullovich Sergaliyev Nurlan , Galikhanovich Kakishev Murat
Published: May 2023

Background Metagenomic analysis was used in this investigation to present the results of the microbiome studies on Aidyn, Brusyanoe, and Rybny Sakryl lakes in the West Kazakhstan region. The technological basis of the research was high-performance Illumina next-generation sequencingResults The sequencing of 36 amplicon libraries yielded at least 20,000 sequences per library, which were subjected to primary taxonomic analysis; 4000 taxons were identified to belong to approximately 400 genera. Results showed that unclassified bacteria, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidota, and Actinobacteriota were dominant. According to the Shannon metric, the samples from Brusyanoe lake had the richest and the most even communities. Subsequently, samples from the Aidyn and Rybny Sakryl lakes, which also had the most even communities according to the Simpson metric. The study also revealed that the taxonomic structure of microbiomes from different lakes had several common features. All samples were characterized by the presence of the following groups of bacteria: Verrucomicrobiae, Gammaproteobacteria and Alphaproteobacteria, Cyanobacteria, Bacteroidia, Actinobacteria, and Acidimicrobiia. Furthermore, comparative analysis of the taxonomic structure of communities showed differences in their structure at the class level as well. Beta-diversity indicated that the taxonomic composition of the communities varied and depended on the sampling location. Weighted Uni Fracmetric, which reflects the similarity in the qualitative composition of the communities, suggested an even taxonomic composition only for the Rybny Sakryllake microbiome. Microbiome samples from Aidyn and Brusyanoe lakes were characterized by the presence of Candidatusaquilinia (2.6–7.5%) and a relatively high content of Algoriphagus (2–8%). Common features between the Aidyn and Rybny Sakryl lake samples included a relatively abundant Methylophilaceae (1.3–3.8%).Conclusion The conducted studies revealed differences in microbiome composition in Aydi, Brusyanoe and Rybny Sakryl lakes.Data analyses revealed that the results of the metagenomic study of the microbiome of inland water bodies can be used as markers to elucidate the ecological state of the lakes examined in the present study. Furthermore, microbial communities adapted to water with significantly high salt contents are predominantly found in the Aidyn lake. However, microbial communities existing in freshwaters with low salt content are typically foundin the Rybny Sakryl and Brusyanoe lakes.
Optimal immunotherapy regimens for NSCLC patients with KRAS mutations: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: zhang Lin , Chen Wei , Wei Hongtao , Yu Junxian
Published: May 2023

Objective Patients with KRAS-mutated NSCLC will have a lower survival rate than patients with KRAS gene wild-type, for whom the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors has a significant benefit. We conducted a systematic evaluation and network meta-analysis to find the best treatment option for such patients with ICIs by comparing the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors as well as CALT-4 inhibitors) in patients with advanced or metastatic NSCLC with KRAS mutations.Method Until October 30, 2022, a systematic searched of Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane library and Web of Science. The primary endpoint were overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS) of KRAS-mutated patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors compare with chemotherapy. All statistical were made with R-studio.Result Overall, 6 studies that included a total 469 patients were analyzed in this meta-analysis. Pembrolizumab monotherapy had a higher OS than chemotherapy (HR 0.42, 95% CI 0.22, 0.8) and pembrolizumab combined with chemotherapy had a higher PFS than chemotherapy (HR 0.47 95% CI 0.29,0.76). In terms of OS, among NSCLC patients with KRAS-mutated, pembrolizumab monotherapy was the best treatment for their first-line treatment and nivolumab was the best treatment for second-line treatment. In contrast, atezolizumab monotherapy had no significant advantage in this group. Of the five non-chemotherapy regimens, pembrolizumab was not as effective in combination with chemotherapy, but the benefit of this regimen was greater than pembrolizumab monotherapy and nivolumab monotherapy in terms of PFS.Conclusion In terms of efficacy, the best immunotherapy regimen for patients with KRAS-mutated NSCLC is the use of pembrolizumab monotherapy, which is also the best treatment for first-line therapy in this group, followed by the recommendation of nivolumab monotherapy, which is also the best treatment for second-line therapy in this group.
Multi-pose-based Convolutional Neural Network Model for Diagnosis of Patients with Central Lumbar Spinal Stenosis
Authors: Park Seyeon , Kim Jun-Hoe , Ahn Youngbin , Yuh Woon Tak , Lee Chang-Hyun , Hyun Seung-Jae , Kim Chi Heon , Kim Ki-Jeong , Chung Chun Kee , Kim Young-Gon
Published: May 2023

Although plain radiographs have declined in importance since the advent of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), their diagnostic ability has improved dramatically when combined with deep learning. Previously, we developed a convolutional neural network (CNN) model using a radiograph for diagnosing lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). In this study, we aimed to improve and generalize the performance of CNN models using multi-pose radiographs. Individuals with severe or no LSS, confirmed using MRI, were enrolled. Lateral radiographs of three postures were collected. We developed a multi-pose-based CNN (MP-CNN) model using four pre-trained algorithms and three single-pose-based CNN (SP-CNN) using extension, flexion, and neutral postures. The MP-CNN model underwent additional internal and external validation to measure generalization performance. The ResNet50-based MP-CNN model achieved the largest area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) of 91.4% (95% confidence interval [CI] 90.9–91.8%). In the extra validation, the AUROC of the MP-CNN model was 91.3% (95% CI 90.7–91.9%) and 79.5% (95% CI 78.2–80.8%) for the extra-internal and external validation, respectively. The MP-based heatmap offered a logical decision-making direction through optimized visualization. This model holds potential as a screening tool for LSS diagnosis, offering an explainable rationale for its prediction.
A Novel Prognostic Model based on a Coagulation-related Gene Signature for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Tang Yong , Hu Guangbing , Zhang Guiji , Wang Xiaobo , Guo Haiyang , Shu Jinghao , Chen Lin , Chen Qi , Gou Lei , Cui Yutong , Liang Shiqi , Wang Xianfei
Published: May 2023

Background Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a relatively common malignancy worldwide. The diagnosis of CRC at an early stage is difficult due to the lack of effective molecular biomarkers. Consequently, CRC is associated with a high mortality rate. Researchers have shown that coagulation-related factors promote or inhibit CRC progression. The purpose of this study was to identify coagulation-related genes (CRGs) with prognostic value that can potentially serve as therapeutic targets for CRC.Methods In this study, we used data of CRC samples from The Cancer Genome Atlas to identify differentially expressed CRGs. Next, the prognostic model was constructed using Cox proportional hazards regression analysis. The accuracy of the model and survival rate of patients with CRC were analyzed using receiver operating characteristic and Kaplan–Meier curves, respectively. In addition, a nomogram was developed to provide clinical guidance. Subsequently, the model was verified using data from the Gene Expression Omnibus. We evaluated the efficacy of immunotherapy and drug sensitivity using the Tumor Immune Dysfunction and Exclusion algorithms and the Genomics of Drug Sensitivity in Cancer, respectively. The expression of inhibin subunit beta B (INHBB) was knocked down using specific siRNA, and the oncogenic effect of INHBB in colon cancer cells was investigated in vitro.Results We identified seven prognostic CRGs, and constructed a model using five of those (TIMP1, MMP10, WDR72, INHBB, F2RL2). We used the median value to divide patients with CRC into high- and low-risk groups. In The Cancer Genome Atlas cohort, the survival time of patients in the latter group was longer, and the receiver operating characteristic area under curve was ≥ 0.6. The nomogram was successfully constructed. The results of the drug sensitivity analysis suggested that cisplatin, camptothecin, foretinib, tamoxifen, and vinblastine were more effective in the high-risk group versus the low-risk group; the inverse was observed for immunotherapy. Finally, knockdown of INHBB attenuated the proliferation, invasion, and migration of CRC cells in vitro.Conclusion We identified a novel CRG marker in CRC, which may be used as a predictive biomarker and lay the foundation for the personalized treatment of patients with CRC.
Protective Effect of Ginsenoside Rg5 on Hypoxia/Reoxygenation- Induced H9c2 Cardiomyocytes by Correcting Free Fatty Acids β- oxidation
Authors: Jiang Li. , Fang Wenjie , Zhang Wentong , Tu Yu , Shang Guangbin , Zhang Qiyun , Nie Peng , Yan Xiaojun , Liu Hongning , Xu Guoliang
Published: May 2023

Clinically, the in-hospital mortality rate of cardiogenic shock (CS) is approximately 50%. In CS, metabolic pathways in the body undergo “embryonal transformation,” in which metabolic processes transform free fatty acids (FFAs) to glucose. Shenfu injection (SFI) treatment has exhibited a positive effect on cardiogenic shock, and ginsenoside Rg5 (G-Rg5) is the anticardiogenic shock component of SFI. In this study, we aimed to investigate the myocardial protective effect and mechanism of G-Rg5 in myocardial energy metabolism, especially from the perspective of FFA β-oxidation, one of the most crucial lipid metabolism pathways. Cardiomyocytes were exposed to hypoxia-reoxygenation (H/R) and treated with G-Rg5. MTT analysis was used to determine the viability of H9c2 cardiomyocytes under different interventions with G-Rg5. The levels of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and FFA were detected using ELISA, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) was determined using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Furthermore, the expression of NR4A1 was determined by RT-qPCR, and the levels of AMPKα, p-AMPKα, and GPX4 were detected by western blotting to explore the underlying mechanism. We observed that G-Rg5-protected H9c2 cardiomyocytes exhibited better FFA β-oxidation regulation, thereby producing an increased abundance of ATP. G-Rg5 may correct FFA β-oxidation by regulating the levels of NR4A1, AMPKα, p-AMPKα, and GPX4. Therefore, G-Rg5 is a promising drug for CS treatment.
From CAD to Plug & Produce - A generic structure for the integration of standard industrial robots into agents
Authors: Nilsson Anders , Danielsson Fredrik , Svensson Bo
Published: May 2023

Industries of low batches or one-off manufacturing aim for automation that is competitive enough to adapt to new or modified products daily through in-house knowledge. A knowledge that focuses on manufacturing processes, not on machine function programming. To solve this a complete set of actions that utilize seamless data transfer from product design to a Plug & Produce automation concept is proposed together with a generic structure for the integration of standard industrial robots into agents. This structure enables agents to handle their local reference coordinate systems and locations relative to a global perspective. Seamless utilization of data from product designs to Plug & Produce will simplify and shorten the time of digital development through concurrently usable text-based and graphical configuration tools of a configurable multi-agent system. Needed data extracts directly from the product design as requirements of operational goals. Extraction of data from the product design, sequence of goals, and process plans, which are recipes of how to solve goals, can by this concept be configured by in-house knowledge that has the process knowledge but not necessarily programming competence.
The effect of psyllium on fasting blood sugar, HbA1C, HOMA IR, and insulin control: systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Gholami Zeinab , Clark Cain C. T. , Paknahad Zamzam
Published: May 2023

There is equivocal evidence that psyllium can prevent or attenuate increases in fasting blood sugar. Therefore, this systematic review and meta-analysis sought to investigate the influence of psyllium on hemoglobin A1C (HbA1C), fasting blood sugar (FBS), insulin, and Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA IR). We searched PubMed, ISI Web of Science (WOS), and Scopus for eligible publications, up to 15 July 2022, including randomized controlled trials (RCT) assessing the effect of psyllium on HbA1C, FBS, insulin, and HOMA IR levels in adults. Using a random effects model, we report the weighted mean differences (WMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).In this article, 19 RCT studies, consisting of 4100 participants, were included. Psyllium significantly decreased FBS, HbA1C, and HOMA IR levels, but not insulin levels, as compared to placebo (FBS: (weighted mean difference [WMD]: -6.89; 95% CI: -10.62, -3.16; p < .001), HbA1C: (WMD: -0.75; 95% CI: -1.21, -0.29; p < .001), HOMA IR: (WMD: -1.17; 95% CI: -2.11, -0.23; p < .05), and insulin: (WMD: -2.08; 95% CI: -4.21, -0.035; p > .05)). Subgroup analyses illustrated differences in the effects of psyllium on FBS: dosages less than and more than 10 g/d showed significant differences (p value < 0.05). However, it was not significant in intervention durations less than 50 days (p value > 0.05). For HbA1C: psyllium consumption less than 10 g/d (p value > 0.05) was non-significant. For HOMA IR and insulin: no significant changes were noted with psyllium consumption less than vs. more than 10 g/d. In conclusion, we found that psyllium could significantly decrease FBS, HbA1C, and HOMA IR levels, but not insulin levels, as compared to placebo.
Changes in Peripapillary Microvasculature and Retinal Thickness in the Fellow Eyes of Patients with Unilateral Retinal Vein Occlusion: An OCTA Study
Authors: Soliman Tarek Tawfik , Tohamy Soha Moussa , ElSaadani Ibrahim AbdELKhalek , Shahin Ahmed
Published: May 2023

Background: Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) is the second most common retinal vascular disease following diabetic retinopathy and is a frequent cause of significant visual loss and associated morbidity.
Aim and objectives: To assess peripapillary vessel density (VD) , retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell complex (GCC) in the fellow eyes of patients with unilateral retinal vein occlusion (RVO) (either CRVO or BRVO) using optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) and compare it with controls.
Subjects and methods: This is an observational study that will be conducted on (25) patients with unilateral RVO (either CRVO or BRVO) and (25) normal controls chosen from outpatient clinic.
Results: The RNFL thicknesses in the fellow eyes of RVO patients was significantly thinner than in normal controls .VD of radial peripappillary plexus and ganglion cell complex thickness were slightly lower than those of controls.
Conclusion: OCTA revealed that RNFL thickness in the fellow eyes of patients with unilateral RVO was significantly decreased, lower peripapillary VD and GCC thickness were also observed compared to healthy controls.
Facial Image Expression Recognition and Prediction System
Authors: Talukder Animesh , Ghosh Surath
Published: May 2023

Facial expression recognition system is an advanced technology that allows machines to recognize human emotions based on their facial expressions. We will use a dataset of human picture facial images in this research, which has more than 35500 facial photographs and represents seven different types of facial expression. To create our prediction model, we will use three different architecture models to create a system for predicting face expressions in people. We will analyze our data and make every effort to remove as much noise as we can before feeding that information to our model. We use the confusion matrix to assess the model's performance after it has been implemented effectively. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our model architecture, we will generate bar graphs and scatter plots for each model to display model loss and accuracy. The output of this model are visualize with actual class and predictive class and the result have graphical representation for each and every output facial Images which makes our recognition system user friendly.
Epidemiological, Clinical, and Pathological Characteristics of Invasive Breast Cancer in Bedouin and Jewish Women in southern Israel: A Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Shitrit Itamar Ben , Wang Ao , Ilan Karny , Agassi Ravit , Frech Safian abu , Vaynshtein Julie
Published: May 2023

Background: Invasive Breast Cancer (IBC) is a leading cause of cancer-related death among women in Israel, regardless of ethnicity. This study compared IBC epidemiological, clinical, and pathological characteristics in Bedouin and Jewish patients in southern Israel.
Methods: Medical records of 1514 Jewish and 191 Bedouin women with IBC treated at Soroka Medical Center between 2014-2021 were analyzed retrospectively. Baseline measures and tumor characteristics were compared between groups. Overall survival (OS) was analyzed using log-rank test. Multivariate analysis was performed using Cox proportional hazard model.
Results: Bedouins were diagnosed at a significantly younger age (median 48vs62 years, p<0.001), had a significantly larger tumor (median 2.5vs2.13cm, p<0.001), and significantly higher rate of metastasis (18.8%vs12.7%, p = 0.03). Interestingly, Bedouins had a lower death rate compared to Jews (20%vs30.9%, p = 0.029), but median OS showed no difference between groups. When comparing treatment options, both surgery (124.5vs29.6months, p<0.001) and radiation therapy were associated with better OS (109.5vs59.6months, p<0.001), while chemotherapy was associated with worse OS (95.5vs109.5months, p=0.001). In a multivariate analysis, Surgery and radiation therapy remained significant, while age, tumor size, triple negative status, and metastasis were associated with worse OS.
Discussion: Despite a previous study showing worse OS for Bedouins than Jewish patients, we did not find a similar trend. This is likely due to improved cancer screening and prevention in Bedouin patients as a direct result of increased number of community clinics in Bedouin settlements. Moreover, Bedouins' access to healthcare improved as their lifestyle transformed from semi-nomadic to more modernized.
Epigenic Regulated CENPA and IQGAP3 Identified as Ideal Early-Stage Hepatocellular Carcinoma Markers
Authors: Shen Junwei , Hu Jing , Zhuang Huaping , Deng Jiahe , Yang Xi , Xie Fandi , Liu Dingsheng , Li Yanfei
Published: May 2023

Backgrounds: Hepatocellular carcinoma is a type of liver cancer that has a high mortality rate and there is an urgently need to improve the prognosis and survival rates for patients with this disease. However, reliable prognostic or therapeutic markers for HCC is limited.
Results: Here, we conducted a gene expression analysis to identify candidate biomarkers that are highly expressed in tumor tissues but barely detectable in normal tissues. Among the 33 candidate genes identified, 14 were found to be significantly associated with patient survival. Further analysis revealed two highly sensitive and specific biomarkers, CENPA and IQGAP3, which were virtually undetectable in normal liver tissue but highly detectable in liver tumor tissue at both the protein and mRNA levels. Notably, they were all regulated by DNA methylation. Based on these findings, we established a new clinical classification method for hepatocellular carcinoma, which accurately stratifies patients into early or advanced stage tumors.
Conclusions: Our study not only identifies novel molecular markers for hepatocellular carcinoma, but also provides a promising approach for improving the diagnosis and treatment of this devastating disease.
Mesoscale/Microscale modelling for evaluation of wind energy potential and cost energy in developing country using a high-resolution grid: A case study in the northeastern region of Thailand
Authors: Tawinprai Supitcha , Polnumtiang Supachai , Suksomprom Panida , Waewsak Jompob , Tangchaichit Kiatfa
Published: May 2023

The high demand for electricity during the pandemic has increased electricity prices. Awareness of power generation from renewable sources has become a global commitment to improve environmental issues due to greenhouse gas emissions. Wind resource maps for the center of the northeastern region of Thailand are presented in this research. Wind energy potential maps were obtained by mesoscale (MC2) and microscale (Ms-Micro) wind flow modelling. The simulation results were validated using observations from the wind mast installed in the research area. Indicated that the mean wind speed at an elevation of 120 m (AGL) varies in range from 1.52 to 3.62 m/s, 2.49 to 3.29 m/s, and 2.26 to 3.42 m/s for Khon Kaen, Maha Sarakham and Roi Et site, respectively. The wind power estimation revealed that the Maha Salakham site could produce the largest energy of 17,804.16 MWh/year, in accordance with a capacity factor of approximately 21% and an LCOE value about 0.21 USD/kWh. Nevertheless, the information on wind potential, as displayed in this research, must be additionally considered for the monitoring and estimation of the performance of other types of wind turbines, the impact on the environment, and social acceptance in further research.
Comprehensive analysis and experiment of hypoxia and EMT-related genes in prognosis and immune response of glioblastoma
Authors: Xia Minqi , Tong Shiao , Gao Ling
Published: May 2023

Background: Tumor cells are commonly exposed to a hypoxic environment, which can easily induce the Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) of tumor cells, further affecting tumor proliferation, invasion, metastasis and drug resistance. However, the predictive role of hypoxia and EMT-related genes in glioblastoma (GBM) has not been investigated.
Methods ： Intersection genes were identified by Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and differential expression analyses, and a risk model was further constructed by LASSO and Cox analyses. Clinical, immune infiltration, tumor mutation, drug treatment, and enrichment profiles were analyzed based on the risk model. The expression level of the MDK gene was tested using RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunofluorescence. CCK8 and EdU were employed to determine the GBM cells' capacity for proliferation while the migration and invasion ability were detected by wound healing assay and Transwell assay, respectively.
Results: Based on the GBM data of TCGA and GTEx databases, 58 intersection genes were identified, and a risk model was constructed. The model was verified in the CGGA cohort, and its accuracy was confirmed by the ROC curve (AUC=0.807). After combining clinical subgroups, univariate and multivariate COX regression analyses showed that risk score and age were independent risk factors for GBM patients. Furthermore, our subsequent analysis of immune infiltration, tumor mutation, and drug treatment showed that risk score, high-and low-risk groups were associated with multiple immune cells, mutated genes, and drugs. Enrichment analysis indicated that the differences between high-and low-risk groups were manifested in tumor-related pathways, including PI3K-AKT and JAK-STAT pathways. Finally, in vivo experiments proved that the hypoxia environment promoted the expression of MDK, and MDK knockdown reduced the proliferation, migration, and EMT of GBM cells induced by hypoxia.
Conclusions ： Our novel prognostic correlation model provided more potential treatment strategies for GBM patients.
Application of Non-Linear Modelling with Uncertain Resource Limitations in the Optimization of Manufacturing and Production Dimensions Based on A Fuzzy Approach
Authors: Taghizadeh Houshang , Hajipirlu Mostafa Ziyaei
Published: May 2023

Currently, with regard to the increasing complexities in the industrial and organizational environments, the mathematical programming methods of the creation type used in the past do not meet the demands of the decision-makers of technical and managerial fields. As a result, making use of a combination of mathematical programming models and fuzzy set theory has led to creating further flexible methods and producing more reliable results for optimization problems. Thus, the main objective of applying the methods is to use the limited uncertainties in the decision-making model through the use of fuzzy logic. In the present article, a practical managerial case has been chosen to investigate how to obtain the optimum value for nonlinear programming problems using fuzzy techniques in models with uncertain resource constraints in the optimization of manufacturing and production dimensions. The modelling for this problem has led to creating a fuzzy nonlinear programming model and converting and solving it in the form of a particular model. Considering the findings of the optimum dimensions resulting from solving the converted fuzzy model in the manufacturing and production of a tool box ordered with the required constraints and conditions, it is clearly shown that the uncertain resource constraints have been suitably reflected in solving the problem, and the optimum solution has been obtained.
Macroseismic intensity attenuation models calibrated in Mw for Italy
Authors: Capera Augusto Antonio Gomez , Santulin Marco , D'Amico Maria Clara , D'Amico Vera , Locati Mario , Meletti Carlo , Varini Elisa
Published: May 2023

This study aims at developing new macroseismic intensity attenuation models valid for Italy by exploiting the most updated macroseismic dataset and earthquakes catalogue, as well as the information obtained from a critical analysis of the most recent models in the literature. Several different attenuation models have been calibrated as a function of the moment magnitude (Mw) and epicentral distance from 16.260 intensity data points, that are related to 119 earthquakes occurred after 1900. According to trends and residuals analysis, the preferred calibrated intensity (I) attenuation function is a Log-Linear model for epicentral distance (r in km) and a linear model for Mw as:
I = 1.81 - 2.61 LogR - 0.0039R + 1.42Mw
with R=(r2+(9.87)2)0.5; the estimated standard deviation is σ=0.75.
Also noteworthy is an unusual multiplicative model for macroseismic intensity attenuation which performs as well as the best model and shows higher sensitivity to physical parameters, such as focal depth and magnitude, especially in the epicentral area. Performance of all calibrated models was also checked on an independent set of 15 post-1900 Italian earthquakes.
At-site flood frequency analysis in Brazil
Authors: Valentini Marlon Heitor Kunst , Beskow Samuel , Beskow Tamara Leitzke Caldeira , de Mello Carlos Rogério , Cassalho Felício , Silva Maria Eduarda Silva da
Published: May 2023

Governmental research agencies from Australia, Austria, Germany, Italy, Spain, and UK have suggested the use of specific 2- and 3-parameter Probability Density Functions (PDFs) to estimate the magnitude and frequency of annual maximum streamflow (AMS). There are no guidelines in Brazil concerning the most indicated PDFs to model AMS, however, two- and three-parameter PDFs have been used. Considering the worldwide promising results when using multiparameter PDFs, we were encouraged to evaluate ten candidate PDFs to model AMS at the scale of a continental country. The methodology of this study consisted of the: acquisition of streamflow data for the Brazilian territory and organization of the AMS series; screening of AMS series considering temporal and statistical criteria; fit of the following PDFs to the AMS series based on the L-moments method: Gumbel, Gamma, Generalized Logistic, Generalized Normal, Generalized Pareto, 3-parameter Log-Normal, Pearson type 3, Generalized Extreme Value, Kappa, and Wakeby; quantile estimation; and PDF performance according to the Filliben test and the Relative Absolute Error (RAE). Out of 3,826 AMS series initially considered, 707 were effectively used for the analysis. We concluded that: a) Gumbel and Gamma provided poor performance; b) the multiparameter PDFs (Wakeby and Kappa) outperformed the other PDFs to model AMS in Brazil; c) Gumbel and Generalized Extreme Value had the highest RAE values for quantile estimate; and d) this study has potential to contribute with the scientific advances reported in literature and can offer insights into the most indicated PDFs for the development of national guidelines.
Exploring Thermal Annealing to Study Interaction of Calmodulin Protein with Carbon Nanotube:A Molecular Dynamics Simulation Approach
Authors: Mehta Dwij , Negi Sunita , Rajaraman Ganesh
Published: May 2023

Carbon nanotubes have shown their importance from their vast applications in all different fields such as electronics, sensors, drug delivery, air-water filtration and catalyst support this research aimed to investigate the potential application of an armchair single-walled carbon nanotube in the field of biomedicine by studying its interaction with calmodulin protein (3CLN). Through Molecular Dynamics simulations, it was found that the interaction only takes place at elevated temperatures, such as 500 K. Our research involved examining the interaction between Calmodulin protein and carbon nanotube through a thermal annealing process that entailed increasing the temperature from 300 K to 500 K, then cooling back to room temperature. We conducted molecular dynamics simulations using NAMD and VMD to study this process. Although we intended to investigate whether any significant interaction occurs at 300 K, we observed something unexpected during the experiment. Specifically, at the end of the simulation, we observed some fascinating dynamics during the annealing process, where the protein wrapped around the carbon nanotube, forming a stable corona-like structure. This was different from what we had initially set out to investigate. This structure remains intact even after cooling the structure to room temperature as well. The observed structure is important from the point of view of application of the carbon nanotube in the drug delivery applications.
A solitary finger nodule with a papulovesicular hands and feet eruption: a complicated human Orf virus infection
Authors: Salvi Martina , Tiecco Giorgio , Rossi Luca , Venturini Marina , Castelli Francesco , Quiros-Roldan Eugenia
Published: May 2023

Introduction and aims: Orf virus (ORFV) is the pathogen responsible for Orf, a zoonotic viral infection that can be spread to humans from sheep and goat. Here, we present a case report of an ORFV infection complicated by an immune-related reaction to raise awareness of this under-recognized disease.
Case report: A 51-year-old woman presented with a 1-week history of a single asymptomatic swelling nodule with grey necrotic centre and red outer halo on her index finger. At physical examination, a pruritic papulovesicular eruption was also assessed on her hands and feet. Laboratory tests were within normal ranges and no past medical history was reported. She reported a recent contact with a goat which had a similar nodule in her mouth. The lesions biopsies were compatible with Orf virus infection complicated by erythema multiforme. The lesions spontaneously resolved within the next 2 weeks.
Conclusions: Clinicians should be aware of the primary presentation and the potential complications that may occur in case of Orf virus infection. Erythema multiforme is the most frequently reported Orf-induced immunological diseases and, although histopathological examination might help, generally, clinical and epidemiological characteristics are enough to achieve a prompt diagnosis. Both primary and secondary lesions generally auto-resolve without needing any unnecessary overtreatment.
Single dose intravenous ondansetron induces QTc prolongation in adult emergency department patients: is it predictable and persistent? A prospective observational study
Authors: Rukerd Mohammad Rezaei Zadeh , Shahrbabaki Fatemeh Rafiei , Movahedi Mitra , Honarmand Amin , Pourzand Pouria , Mirafzal Amirhossein
Published: May 2023

Background Ondansetron is one of the most routinely used drugs in the emergency department (ED) for treating nausea and vomiting, particularly in intravenous (IV) form. Nevertheless, it has been shown to prolong QT interval and increase the risk of fatal ventricular dysrhythmias. The accurate prediction of QTc interval prolongation induced by just a single-dose IV ondansetron in the ED remains unclarified in the literature. This study further evaluated the associations between IV ondansetron dosage and subsequent QTc prolongation.Methods In this prospective observational study, a total number of 106 patients presenting to the ED in a 3-month period with nausea and vomiting treated with IV ondansetron were enrolled. QTc intervals were measured at baseline (QTc0), 30 minutes (QTc30) and 60 minutes (QTc60) following a single-dose administration of ondansetron at 4 or 8 mg doses.Results In the multivariable logistic regression, ondansetron IV dose and QTc0 were independently associated with QTc60 > 480msec. The area under curves (AUC) for prediction of prolonged QTc60 were 0.71 and 0.64 for dosage and QTc0, respectively. There was a 100% sensitivity for QTc0 = 400msec to predict QTC60 < 480msec, while QTc0 > 460msec predicted QTC60 > 480msec with 98% specificity. Each msec increment in QTc0 increased the likelihood of prolonged QTc60 by 3%, while increasing the single dose of 4mg to 8mg increased prolonged QTc60 odds by 33%.Conclusions Based on our results, single doses of up to 8 mg ondansetron could be safely injected for patients with no risk factors for QTc prolongation and initial QTc of 400msec or less. Above this QTc cutoff, using the 4mg dose instead of 8mg as a precaution may be advisable if the baseline QTc is not prolonged and ondansetron administration is necessary.
Rheological and Molecular Dynamics Simulation Studies of the Gelation of Human Serum Albumin in Anionic and Cationic Surfactants
Authors: Nnyigide Tochukwu Olunna , Hyun Kyu
Published: May 2023

We report the gelation of human serum albumin (HSA) of 5–12 wt.% concentrations in 0–0.15 M aqueous solutions of a cationic surfactant, cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB), or an anionic surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS), under isothermal and nonisothermal conditions. Under both conditions, the initial increase in the CTAB concentration (up to 0.075 M) accelerated HSA gelation (marked by decreasing gel times (tgel) for the isothermal case or gel temperatures (Tgel) for the nonisothermal case), whereas increasing the SDS concentration inhibited HSA gelation (i.e., increasing tgel or Tgel). The increase and decrease in HSA gelation by CTAB and SDS, respectively, reached a maximum at a surfactant/protein molar ratio of 100. Rheological properties, i.e., storage modulus (G’) and loss modulus (G’’), exhibited mechanically stable behavior of HSA/CTAB gels over the covered concentration range, whereas HSA/SDS gels exhibited decreasing mechanical properties with increasing SDS concentrations. Molecular dynamics simulation showed that the greater rate of the unfolding of the HSA structure in CTAB than in SDS was behind the rapid gelation kinetics of HSA in CTAB compared with SDS. Our result establishes that cationic CTAB and anionic SDS surfactants exert wide-ranging control over the rheological and kinetic properties of HSA hydrogels.