bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the evolution of Inflamatory gastrointestinal disease over time
Authors: Teklezgi Mehari Gebre , Gebrerufael Gebru Gebremeskel
Published: July 2024

Background
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) commonly refers to ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn disease (CD), which are chronic inflammatory diseases of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract of unknown etiology. This study was conducted to investigate the evolution of Ine flammatory bowel disease (IBD) score over time, and if this Ibd score depends in the treatment arms.
Methodology:
This is a clinical study which consisted of 291 sub: jects, who divided over four treatment arms and were measured durj ing a 7 week period. The Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) score in the period Week 1 through Week 7 were considered as the outcome of interest, as well treatment was considered as predictor. Different statistical methods such as explanatory data analysis, linear and nons linear models were employed to explore the outcome of interest.
Results
From both the linear and nonlinear models, treatment were insignificant, however time, squared of time, cubic time and quartic time were significant in the linear mixed model.In the nonlinear case, time was revealed significant effect.
Conclusions
The two components are not related to the treat: ment,and as a result, the treatment does not completely explain the presence of potencial clusters in the outcome. Ibdsc0 partially explains the presence of potencial clusters in the outcome.
Measuring the Level of Sustainable Transportation Development (LSTD) in China —— From the Perspective of SDGs
Authors: Wang Yifei , Shen Liyin , Yang Yi , Li Xinran , Pu Junpeng
Published: July 2024

Aligning with the global emphasis on sustainable development, transportation system sustainability has emerged as a key issue. While existing studies have extensively addressed transportation sustainability, they often concentrate on single or limited aspects, lacking a holistic perspective. This study, from the perspective of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), presents the Level of Sustainable Transportation Development (LSTD) in China. A comprehensive assessment framework is established based on the 17 SDGs, particularly referring to six goals related to sustainable transportation systems. The Sparrow Search Algorithm-Projection Pursuit Model (SSA-PPM) is employed to analyze data collected from 30 provinces in China for the period of 2015 to 2020. The findings from this study indicate a steady upward trend in the LSTD across provinces. However, the spatial correlation analysis results demonstrate significant discrepancies between provinces. By examining the interplay among multiple SDGs relating to the LSTD, the study offers policy recommendations. These findings are deemed valuable for both academic research and policy-making, not only in the context of China but also globally.
Morpho-physiological traits associated with contrasting water-use efficiency in Piper nigrum
Authors: Santos Helane CA , Junior Joaquim AL , Silva Olavo P , Guerino Rafaela S , Alves Mariele C , Sousa Denis P , Romariz Ricardo NV , Martins Jefferson S , Gonçalves Marcos AS , Lemos Oriel F , Luz Luana M , Costa Lucas Cavalcante da
Published: July 2024

Water-use efficiency (WUE) also known as crop-per-drop has been the focus of several studies concerning the limitation of water and natural resources. Alongside this, morpho-physiological aspects underlying WUE in many species have been exploited to be set up to different water regimes. Here, two cultivars of Piper nigrum (Clonada and Uthirankotta), growing under an irrigation system, were investigated for morpho-physiological aspects linked to WUE by accessing anatomical, morphological, photosynthetic, and hydraulic parameters. Our findings reveal that cv. Uthirankotta presents a higher water-use efficiency at the whole-plant level (WUEyield) than cv. Clonada. However, despite this difference, no association between short-term water-use efficiency (WUEE and WUEgs) and long-term water-use efficiency (WUEyield) was observed for both cultivars. Such responses were instead linked to divergence in structural and functional traits observed in growth, anatomy, and hydraulic parameters between such plant materials. We believe that our report can support further studies addressing WUE in Piper nigrum under contrasting water availability by assessing underlying parameters closely associated with long- rather than short-term WUE.
Estimation of shallow structure along the Hinagu Fault by applying seismic interferometry to DAS observations conducted along National Route 3
Authors: Hamanaka Satoru , Emoto Kentaro
Published: July 2024

Distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) is a newly developed geophysical observation method and has attracted wide attention in seismology for realizing ultra-high-density observations. DAS uses fiber-optic cables and measures the strain at every point along the cable. This advantage renders DAS an effective tool for investigating near-surface geotechnical properties. Near fault zones, it is important to obtain detailed geotechnical information in advance because of the potential for significant damage in an earthquake. In this study, we recorded continuous ground motion for approximately one month using a 40 km-long fiber-optic communication cable running under National Route 3 in Kumamoto Prefecture. The cross-correlation function (CCF) was calculated using ambient noise, and three-station interferometry was applied to improve the signal-to-noise ratio of the CCF. Using the reconstructed CCF between channels, we calculated the dispersion curves by conducting multichannel surface wave analysis and estimated the one-dimensional velocity structure of each section from the fundamental modes of the dispersion curves. We obtained the detailed shallow S-wave velocity structure to a depth of 180 m along the Hinagu Fault for approximately 2.5 km. The obtained velocity structure showed that the low-velocity region increased abruptly with depth from the center to the latter half of the analyzed section. This velocity change occurs when the national highway running parallel to the fault gradually leaves the fault, suggesting a structural change from solid volcanic layers to thick shallow sedimentary layers derived from the Yatsushiro Plain.
Carbon Emissions and Neutralization in Forestry Ecosystems: Effects on Urbanization, Water Resources, and Forestry Symbiosis
Authors: Wang Shengyuan , Wu Xiaolan , Liu Ying , Wang Rong
Published: July 2024

Human urbanization affects the conservation and development of water and forestry resources in urbanized areas, which can, in turn, affect human urbanization. At the same time, there is also an interactive relationship between water resources and forest systems and urbanization, water resources and forestry systems coexist and influence one another. The purpose of this paper is to quantitatively study the interactive symbiosis mechanism of urbanization, water resources, and forestry systems and to provide a research basis for the optimization of the symbiosis system. In order to achieve the research objective, an evaluation index system is established for urbanization, water resources, and forestry development; a symbiotic system model is constructed for urbanization, water resources, and forestry with the help of a 3D Lotka-Volterra (LV) model; and the symbiotic mechanism of the three systems is analyzed with the data of provincial-level regions of mainland China from 2012 to 2021 as a research sample. The study has found that the symbiotic system of urbanization, water resources, and forestry in China’s provincial regions is characterized by significant heterogeneity that a comprehensive and synergistic evolutionary pattern has not yet been achieved through the three-dimensional system, and the level of sustainable development of the system needs to be improved. The study has also measured the data envelopment analysis (DEA) efficiency values, input redundancy, and output insufficiency in different regions and proposed measures to improve the efficiency of the symbiosis in different regions based on the results of the analysis of the input-output efficiency of the symbiosis system using the DEA method. The study measures the carbon emission effects of urbanization, water resources, and forestry symbiotic systems, and finds that most provincial-level regions in China have insufficient carbon emission reduction effects.
The Role Of Serum Prolidase Activity, MMP-1, MMP-7, TGF- β Values In Prediction Of Early Fibrosis In Patients With Moderate And Severe Covid-19
Authors: Zengin Didem Dogu , Ergun Dilek , Yormaz Burcu , Ergun Recai , Guven Halil , Korez Muslu Kazim , Ozer Halil , Unlu Ali , Tulek Baykal , Kanat Fikret
Published: July 2024

Background
This study aimed to identify predictive factors for pulmonary fibrosis development in COVID-19 patients by analysing thorax CT (Computed tomography) findings, serum prolidase activity, MMP-1, MMP-7, TGF-β values, laboratory findings, and demographic characteristics.
Materials and methods
The investigation involved 68 patients, both male and female, aged 18 years and older, who were volunteers and had been diagnosed with confirmed or possible COVID-19. Thorax CT were evaluated by common consensus by the pulmonologist and the radiologist. Patients were evaluated in two categories, group 1 and group 2, according to the status of fibrotic changes, and 3-month fibrosis scores were calculated. These findings in both lungs were calculated and noted for the lobes, considering lobar spread. Correlations between quantitative parameters were assessed with Spearman's rho correlation coefficient. Comparisons between independent samples were carried out with an independent sample t-test or Mann-Whitney U test. The Pearson chi-square test and Fisher's exact test were used to evaluate the relationship between categorical variables.
Results
Serum prolidase activity, MMP-1, MMP-7 and TGF-β biomarkers were not statistically significant among groups. LDH was found to be significantly high in the group with fibrotic changes. Additionally, the group with fibrotic changes also had higher levels of fibrinogen. The percentage of neutrophils, the severity of the disease, muscle-joint pain and fatigue symptoms, and the duration of the hospital stay were correlated with the total scores of fibrosis at the 3rd month. In the group with fibrotic changes, muscle-joint pain and fatigue symptoms and the duration of hospital stay were longer than the other group.
Conclusions
The group with fibrotic changes showed an increase in biomarkers. However, this increase did not reach a statistically significant level, suggesting that the third month may be an early period for these changes. The group with fibrotic changes showed high levels of LDH, one of the most important laboratory parameters of pulmonary fibrosis risk factors, along with fibrinogen, suggesting that these parameters are valuable in predicting pulmonary fibrosis. Patients with fibrotic changes can experience specific symptoms, commonly seen in COVID-19.
Trial registration
Thaiclinicaltrials.org, TCTR20240701005, retrospectively registered on 24 June 2024.
Analysis of the effects of vehicle emission at heavily used intersections along Asian Highway 47 in Indore, India
Authors: Lashkari Ruchir , Kale Rohini , Tripathi Shilpa
Published: July 2024

The winter months of November and December 2022 saw simultaneous measurements of Respirable Suspended Particulate Matter (RSPM - PM 10), Gaseous pollutants such as SO2, NO2, Total Vehicular Pollution load, and Air Quality Index at the busiest traffic divergence corridor on Asian Highway 47 at Indore city, which is IDTL Toll Manglia & Bicholi Mardana. Utilizing a respirable dust sampler, the sampling process was carried out in accordance with CPCB regulations. With the use of a respirable dust sampler, the morning at IDTL Toll Manglia and Bicholi Mardana Square has the lowest RSPM (101.45 µg/m3) and the highest RSPM (152.78 µg/m3). During the month, the lowest recorded RSPM value in the morning was 100.15 µg/m3, while the maximum was 139.73 µg/m3. During nighttime peak hours, Bicholi Mardana recorded the lowest value of 143.68 µg/m3 and the greatest concentration of 173.38 µg/m3. Conversely, IDTL Toll Manglia recorded the lowest concentration of 168.58 µg/m3 and the highest concentration of 190.82 µg/m3. The concentration of gaseous pollutants was found to be higher at IDTL Toll Manglia and lower at Bicholi Mardana & AQI. Both sampling stations showed signs of moderate quantities in the morning, while heavy concentrations were found at both in the evening. With the appropriate sample sites, this data can be used to assess the current state of vehicular pollution and aid in the formulation of future preventive strategies.
Genome-wide local ancestry and the functional consequences of admixture in African and European cattle populations
Authors: MacHugh David , McHugo Gillian , Ward James , Ng’ang’a Said , Frantz Laurent , Salter-Townshend Michael , Hill Emmeline , O'Gorman Grace , Meade Kieran , Hall Thomas
Published: July 2024

Bos taurus (taurine) and Bos indicus (indicine) cattle diverged at least 150,000 years ago and, since that time, substantial genomic differences have evolved between the two lineages. During the last two millennia, genetic exchange in Africa has resulted in a complex tapestry of taurine-indicine ancestry, with most cattle populations exhibiting varying levels of admixture. Similarly, there are several Southern European cattle populations that also show evidence for historical gene flow from indicine cattle, the highest levels of which are found in the Central Italian White breeds. Here we use two different software tools (MOSAIC and ELAI) for local ancestry inference (LAI) with genome-wide high- and low-density SNP array data sets in hybrid African and Italian cattle populations and obtained broadly similar results despite critical differences in the two LAI methodologies used. Our analyses identified genomic regions with elevated levels of retained or introgressed ancestry from the African taurine, European taurine, Asian indicine lineages. Functional enrichment of genes underlying these ancestry peaks highlighted biological processes relating to immunobiology and olfaction, some of which may relate to differing susceptibilities to infectious diseases, including bovine tuberculosis, East Coast fever, and tropical theileriosis. Notably, for retained African taurine ancestry in admixed trypanotolerant cattle we observed enrichment of genes associated with haemoglobin and oxygen transport. This may reflect positive selection of genomic variants that enhance control of severe anaemia, a debilitating feature of trypanosomiasis disease, which severely constrains cattle agriculture across much of sub-Saharan Africa.
Curcumin Mitigates Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Mice by Suppressing TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB Signaling Pathway Activation and Reducing Intestinal Mucosal Permeability
Authors: Wang zhen , Yang Qin , Wan Qin
Published: July 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) stands as a prevalent endocrine-metabolic disorder impairing female fertility, often intertwined with alterations in intestinal mucosal barrier integrity and chronic inflammation. Curcumin, renowned for its multifaceted biological activities including anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and antioxidant properties, emerges as a potential therapeutic agent for PCOS. In this study, we investigated the effects and underlying mechanisms of curcumin in mitigating PCOS in mice. The PCOS mouse model was induced by administering dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) dissolved in soybean oil (6mg/100g BW) for 20 days, followed by a 45-day intervention period with curcumin. Subsequent euthanasia enabled examination of relevant indicators. Evaluation encompassed ovarian and colonic morphology, intestinal mucosal barrier function, and the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in each experimental group. Our findings indicate that curcumin holds promise in alleviating PCOS symptoms. By inhibiting the activation of the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway and reducing intestinal mucosal permeability, curcumin demonstrates potential as a clinical intervention for this disorder. These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of curcumin in managing PCOS and warrant further clinical investigation to validate its efficacy.
Global stability in an SIRS model with zoonotic transmission, nonlinear incidence rate and temporary immunity
Authors: Barua Saumen , Dénes Attila
Published: July 2024

We establish and study an SIRS epidemic model for a zoonotic disease only transmitted from animals to humans but not the opposite way, with a general nonlinear incidence rate assuming that the animal population has already reached an endemic equilibrium. Due to the zoonotic transmission, there is no disease-free equilibrium and no threshold dynamics can be observed. Using a transformation of variables, we derive a Lyapunov function for the global asymptotic stability of the unique endemic equilibrium.
Mathematics Subject Classification: AMS 92D30 , 34A99
AI Content Self-Detection for Transformer-based large Language Models
Authors: Caiado Antonio , Hahsler Michael
Published: July 2024

The usage of generative artificial intelligence (AI)tools based on large language models, including ChatGPT, Bard, and Claude, for text generation, has many exciting applications with the potential for phenomenal productivity gains. One issue is authorship attribution when using AI tools. This is especially important in an academic setting where the inappropriate use regenerative AI tools may hinder student learning or stifle research by, creating a large amount of automatically generated derivative work. Existing plagiarism detection systems can trace the source of submitted text but are not yet equipped with methods to accurately detect AI-generated text. This paper introduces the dea of direct origin detection and evaluates whether generative AI systems can recognize their output and distinguish it from human-written texts. We argue why current transformer-based models may be able to self-detect their own generated text and perform a small empirical study using zero-shot learning to investigate if that is the case. Results reveal varying capabilities of AI systems to identify their generated text. Google’s Bard model exhibits the largest capability of self-detection with an accuracy of 94%, followed by OpenAI’s ChatGPT with 83%.On the other hand, Anthropic’s Claude model seems to be not able to self-detect.
Social Media and Sentimental Analysis: Central Bank of Nigeria Currency Redesign Policy
Authors: Oladapo Kayode Abiodun , Akinbo Racheal Shade
Published: July 2024

The identification and measurement of an online audience through the social media platform capitalise on the tonality of emotions on the social media presence. On October 20, the most populous country and acclaimed Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria announced the plans to redesign 200, 500 and 1000 banknotes in replacement of the existing ones. Nigerian citizens expressed different opinions over social media in support of or understanding of the proposed plan and process. Research has shown that shared sentiments on social media can influence the opinions of others and thus the Central Bank of Nigeria's currency redesign policy. This study, therefore, aimed to identify and analyse general sentiments towards the process of the currency redesign policy with the purpose of determining the citizen's attitude towards the policy, based on social media comments. Firstly, sentiment analysis was performed on naira redesign-related posts from a selected social media using lexicon-based and supervised machine learning techniques with the purpose of determining a summarised polarity percentage (i.e. negative or positive). The post was collected between January and February 2023. In addition, the performance of the lexicon-based classifier and seven machine learning-based classifiers was implemented and compared in order to use the best-performing classifier in determining the sentiment polarity of the post. Also, the thematic analysis on both positive and negative posts to further understand and revealed general views about the currency redesign policy. Finally, the analytical findings and the possibility of changing the currency redesign policy was discussed.
A new combination of ether and ester as FLC with a liquid dispersant for decreasing the transition time and optimization of fluid loss and rheological properties of fresh cement slurry
Authors: Khazaei Mohammad , Dehvedar Mohsen
Published: July 2024

Fluid loss causes the rheological properties and mechanical properties of the slurry to change completely. Therefore, fluid loss proves that the slurry cannot have proper properties. In this study, the effect of several types of FLC (Fluid loss control) and a liquid dispersant on the fresh cement slurries are considered. the change in rheological properties, compressive strength, Fluid loss control, free water, settling, mixing time, and thickening time were investigated. Also, a challenging issue during well cementing in the oil well is fluid migration from the pumped cement into the permeable formation. Excessive fluid loss can create space for gas entry into the cement slurry, hence fluid loss control additives are also utilized to reduce gas migration. The cement slurry weight was 118 pcf used in 13 3/8” casing and 7” liners. An FLC composed of two substances (including ester-ether) was selected after examining materials with amide, ester, ether, alcoholic, and carboxylic acid functional groups. The ultimate recommendation introduced a combination of three substances (FLC1+FLC2+Liquid Dispersant) as proposed materials for controlling the mentioned properties in the slurry of fresh cement at 180℉ and 210℉ for compressive strength and 150 ℉ and 180 ℉ for BHCT slurry characteristics. The designed formulation using these additives leads to a reduction in transition time. The reduction in transition time plays a significant role in decreasing gas migration into the cement slurry.
On the use of Synthetic Data for Machine Learning prediction of Self-Healing Capacity of Concrete
Authors: de Oliveira Franciana Sokoloski , Stefani Ricardo
Published: July 2024

This work investigated the use of synthetic data to overcome the limitations of scarce experimental data in predicting the self-healing capacity of bacteria-driven concrete. We generated a synthetic dataset based on real-world data, significantly expanding the original dataset and then trained and compared machine learning models, including probabilistic and ensemble methods, to predict the concrete self-healing capacity. The results demonstrate that the ensemble methods, particularly the random forest (RF) method (accuracy = 0.863 and F1-score = 0.863), outperformed the probabilistic models and achieved high accuracy in predicting self-healing capacity. The trained models were further applied to real-word data examples, showing high accuracy. This research validates the utility of synthetic data in predicting modelling accuracy and reliability in civil engineering, particularly in areas with limited experimental data. The findings contribute to the growing use of ML and AI in concrete research and demonstrate the transformative potential of synthetic data in addressing challenges in civil engineering.
Multi-Omics Profiles of Chronic Low Back Pain and Fibromyalgia - Study Protocol
Authors: Curatolo Michele , Chiu Abby P. , Chia Catherine , Ward Ava , Johnston Sandra K. , Klein Rebecca M. , Henze Darrell A. , Zhu Wentao , Raftery Daniel
Published: July 2024

Background
Chronic low back pain (CLBP) and fibromyalgia (FM) are leading causes of suffering, disability, and social costs. Current pharmacological treatments do not target molecular mechanisms driving CLBP and FM, and no validated biomarkers are available, hampering the development of effective therapeutics. Omics research has the potential to substantially advance our ability to develop mechanism-specific therapeutics by identifying pathways involved in the pathophysiology of CLBP and FM, and facilitate the development of diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic biomarkers. We will conduct a blood and urine multi-omics study in comprehensively phenotyped and clinically characterized patients with CLBP and FM. Our aims are to identify molecular pathways potentially involved in the pathophysiology of CLBP and FM that would shift the focus of research to the development of target-specific therapeutics, and identify candidate diagnostic, predictive, and prognostic biomarkers.
Methods
We are conducting a prospective cohort study of adults ≥18 years of age with CLBP (n=100) and FM (n=100), and pain-free controls (n=200). Phenotyping measures include demographics, medication use, pain-related clinical characteristics, physical function, neuropathiccomponents (quantitative sensory tests and DN4 questionnaire), pain facilitation (temporal summation), and psychosocial function as moderator. Blood and urine samples are collected to analyze metabolomics, lipidomics and proteomics. We will integrate the overall omics data to identify common mechanisms and pathways, and associate multi-omics profiles to pain-related clinical characteristics, physical function, indicators of neuropathic pain, and pain facilitation, with psychosocial variables as moderators.
Discussion
Our study addresses the need for a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying chronic low back pain and fibromyalgia. Using a multi-omics approach, we hope to identify converging evidence for potential targets of future therapeutic developments, as well as promising candidate biomarkers for further investigation by biomarker validation studies. We believe that accurate patient phenotyping will be essential for the discovery process, as both conditions are characterized by high heterogeneity and complexity, likely rendering molecular mechanisms phenotype specific.
Bricks from Industry Wastes for Sustainable Development
Authors: N Narasimha Murthy K
Published: July 2024

In the past few decades, there has been rapid exploitation of natural materials from the construction industry all over the globe. For the manufacturing of bricks, lake beds are being encroached on and exploited for clay mining. Industrial wastes like Ground Granulated Blast Furnace Slag (GGBS), Red Mud, and Marble powder are not being managed and used efficiently. Making newer products from these wastes will help reduce the environmental hazards and demand for natural resources which encourages sustainable development. Marble has been used in the construction field for a long time as a flooring or cladding material but not as a constituent material of brick. A few research works have been reported to use marble powder as an alternative material in the manufacturing of bricks. In this paper, innovative bricks were prepared using these three industrial wastes (GGBS, Red Mud, and Marble powder) in different proportions. In this study, bricks were manufactured with varied marble powder proportions along with red mud and GGBS. The bricks of size 210mm X 110mm X 70mm were prepared and burnt at 600⁰C and investigated their properties under burnt and unburnt conditions as per IS code provisions. The experimental results reveal that the compressive strength and density of fired and unfired bricks decreases with the increase of marble powder proportion and the optimum percentage of marble powder is 30% can be used to manufacture the bricks of class A or B according to IS codes. It is noticed that the compressive strength varies from 2.84 Mpa to 7.9 MPa and density decreases from 2121.5 kg/m3 to 1578.2 kg/m3 for burnt bricks. For unfired clay bricks, it varied from 1.5 Mpa to 4.11 Mpa. And density 2157.9 kg/m3 to 1635.2 kg/m3.
Pharmacotherapy and drug prescription: Do dental scholars have the proper knowledge?
Authors: de Santana Adan Lucas Pantoja , Petta Thais de Mendonça , de Sousa Karoline Lima , Pinheiro Helder Henrique Costa , D’Almeida-Couto Roberta Souza
Published: July 2024

Background
Despite attending pharmacotherapy courses around half of the program, a large number of dental scholars still have doubts about how to prescribe drugs during supervised final-year practice internships. This cross-sectional and descriptive survey study aimed to evaluate the level of pharmacology knowledge of dental scholars attending different undergraduate terms at two dental schools.
Methods
After ethical approval and informed consent form signing, 128 dental scholars of the sixth (who recently attended the pharmacotherapy or equivalent course) or tenth undergraduate term anonymously answered a previously validated multiple-choice questionnaire composed of 4 questions on drug prescription regulation and 10 questions on pharmacological clinical cases. The level of knowledge of the dental scholars was categorized (poor, fair good, or excellent) and the frequencies of correct answers were compared by using the chi-square tests (p < 0.05).
Results
The percentages of correct answers from academics at different undergraduate terms within the same dental school were not significantly different (p = 0.938). In both dental schools, the majority of academics presented poor and fair knowledge levels. Overall, academics from dental school B provided a significantly greater percentage of correct answers than did those from dental school A (p = 0.025). Questions regarding drug prescription for medical emergencies and adequate concentrations of fluorides presented the lowest average percentages of correct answers (7.8% and 13.3%, respectively).
Conclusions
The pharmacotherapy and drug prescription knowledge level of academics from the two dental schools were predominantly poor and fair.
Enhancing Wind Energy Generation: Designing and Optimizing a Novel FO Fuzzy PD+I Regulator Using the SSO Method
Authors: Dembri Rafik , Rahmani Lazhar , Babes Badreddine , Zaini Hatim G. , Ghoneim Sherif S. M. , Sharaf Ahmed B. Abou
Published: July 2024

In this article, an optimized design methodology is presented for a Fractional-Order Fuzzy Proportional-Derivative with Integral (FO Fuzzy PD + I) regulator using the Social Spider Optimization (SSO) technique. The research focuses on its application in the control of Doubly Fed Induction Generator (DFIG)-based wind turbine systems (WTS). The FO Fuzzy PD + I controller integrates the capabilities of the Fuzzy intelligent regulator and the Fractional-Order Proportional-Integral-Derivative (FO-PID) controller, enhancing DFIG current control while allowing independent control of active and reactive power. The approach is incorporated within the Direct Vector Control (DVC) strategy of the DFIG's rotor-side converter (RSC), replacing the conventional Proportional-Integral (PI) regulator in the internal current loops. Extensive performance evaluations are conducted under various operating conditions, including active power reference changes, parameter uncertainties, and rapid wind speed variations. Comparative analyses with SSO-optimized PID and Fuzzy regulators show the FO Fuzzy PD + I regulator performs better in terms of maximum overshoot, extreme undershoot, settling time, and Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) reduction. These findings underscore the regulator's potential for enhancing the reliability and efficiency of DFIG-based WTS. Furthermore, the adaptability of the FO Fuzzy PD + I regulator positions it as a versatile control solution with implications extending beyond the realm of wind energy, potentially benefiting various industrial sectors that demand precise and dynamic control mechanisms. As renewable energy sources continue to gain prominence in the global energy landscape, this research contributes to the broader mission of realizing a sustainable and eco-friendly energy future.
Clinicopathogenomic analysis of AKT1-PIK3CA-PTEN-altered luminal metastatic breast cancer in Japan
Authors: Tada Hiroshi , Miyashita Minoru , Harada-Shoji Narumi , Ebata Akiko , Sato Miku , Motonari Tokiwa , Yanagaki Mika , Kon Tomomi , Sakamoto Aru , Ishida Takanori
Published: July 2024

This rapid communication highlights the correlation between protein kinase B alpha (AKT1)-phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA)- phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) alterations and clinicopathological factors in Japanese patients with metastatic recurrent breast cancer (mBC). This study analyzed 1967 patients with luminal-type breast cancer who underwent cancer gene panel testing. The results demonstrated that AKT pathway alterations, including AKT1-PIK3CA-PTEN, occurred in 1038 (52.8 %), 131 (6.7 %), and 76 (3.9 %) cases, respectively. Patients with AKT pathway mutations were older (p = 0.002) and had a higher rate of invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) histology (p = 0.001), progesterone receptor (PgR) positivity (p = 0.006), and bone metastases (p = 0.001), and a lower rate of germline BRCA2 (p < 0.001). Comprehensive genomic profile results demonstrated a higher tumor mutational burden (TMB) (< 0.001) and lower tumor BRCA1/2 expression (< 0.001) in patients with mutations in the AKT pathway. These results are crucial for characterizing candidates for AKT pathway-targeted molecular therapies and conceptualizing optimal treatment strategies.
Dynamic resistance exercise training in the treatment of chronic diseases among older adults: A systematic review of randomized controlled studiesQiwei Fan#, Junli Wang#
Authors: Fan Qiwei , Wang Junli
Published: July 2024

Background: Resistance training is important for health aging. Resistance training program following exercise prescription principle is favorable to maximize health benefits. We aimed to conduct a systematic review of dynamic resistance training (DRT) intervention in the treatment of chronic diseases in old adults in terms of adherence to the Frequency (F), Intensity (I), Time (T), Type (T), Volume (V), and Progression (P) or the FITT-VP principle.
Methods: a systematic search was conducted from inception to March 2024 in the databases of PubMed, Cochrane library, Embase, Physiotherapy Evidence Database to identify eligible studies:(1) Old adults aged ≥ 65 years and a confirmed diagnosis of chronic diseases; and (2) randomized controlled studies (RCTs) that compared DRT as the primary intervention to usual care, wait list control, or sham exercise; and (3) DRT for a duration ≥ 4 weeks.
Results: Of the 9060 records screened, 92 RCTs with good quality that included 6733participants aged 70.0 ±4.2 years met the criteria. RCTs involved 13 different chronic diseases including cancer (n=10), cardiac disease (n=2), chronic kidney disease (n=2), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) (n=8), depression (n=5), hypertension (n=9), mild cognition impairment (MCI) and dementia (n=9), osteoarthritis (n=9), periphery artery disease (PAD) (n=s9), Parkinson’s disease (PD) (n=7), sarcopenia (n=11), stroke (n=4), and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) (n=7). Overall, DRT was performed mostly with supervision (n=74) at moderate to vigorous intensity for 2.7±0.7 sessions per week for 45.6 ± 14.3 min per session for 17.5±11.5 weeks with the adherence of 85.71%±10% (n=48). A DRT session consisted of 7.4 ± 3.2 exercises performed for 3.0±0.9 sets and 12.6±4.1 repetitions. Overall, only 14 studies met all FITT-VP components. DRT may improve cancer-related fatigue, muscle strength in COPD, depression symptoms in depression, cognition in MCI, lower-limbs muscle strength and physical performance in osteoarthritis, walking distance in PAD, gait performance in PD and muscle quality in sarcopenia.
Conclusions: Limited studies implementing DRT in the treatment of chronic diseases in old adults adhered to FITT-VP principle. Future studies should address the limitations to progress the application and effectiveness of DRT in treatment of different chronic diseases in old population.
Enhancing deep learning-based city-wide traffic prediction pipelines through complexity analysis
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Martin Henry , Raubal Martin
Published: July 2024

Deep learning models can effectively capture the non-linear spatiotemporal dynamics of city-wide traffic forecasting. Evidence of varying deep learning model performance between different cities, different prediction horizons, different scales, specific city regions, and during particular hours of the day abounds in the literature on deep learning-based traffic prediction, yet a unified metric to quantify the complexity of different prediction tasks does not exist. This paper proposes two metrics - Model Complexity ($MC$) and Intrinsic Complexity ($IC$). While $MC$ quantifies the complexity of deep learning models for city-wide traffic prediction tasks, the $IC$ quantifies the underlying complexity of the prediction task. Both metrics are validated through systematic experimentation using traffic volume data from three cities. Finally, we demonstrate how these metrics can improve the workflows for deep learning-based data-driven traffic prediction pipelines and deployment by reducing the hyperparameter search scope and comparing the effectiveness of different design pathways.
SYK Promotes the Formation of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps by Inducing PKM2 Nuclear Translocation and Promoting STAT3 Phosphorylation to Exacerbate Hepatic Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury and Tumor Recurrence
Authors: Chen Xuejiao , Jiang Chuanwei , Chen Minhao , Li Xiangdong , Yu Wenjie , Sun Linfeng , Qiu Aigang , Pu Liyong , Shi Yuhua
Published: July 2024

Background
At present, hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is an important complication of partial hepatectomy and liver transplantation, and it is an important cause of poor prognosis. Spleen tyrosine kinase(SYK) plays an important role in a variety of signaling pathways in the liver, but its role in hepatic IRI is still unclear. This study aims to investigate the role and mechanism of SYK in hepatic IRI and tumor recurrence.
Methods
We first observed the activation of SYK in the liver of mice in response to hepatic IRI. Subsequently,Pharmacological inhibitions of SYK were used to evaluated the effect of SYK on neutrophil recruitment and NETosis,and further explored the effect of SYK on IRI and tumor recurrence.
Results
Our study shows that SYK is activated in response to hepatic IRI and aggravates liver injury.On the one hand, neutrophils SYK during the early stage of liver reperfusion increases neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) production by promoting Pyruvate kinase M2(PKM2) nuclear translocation leading to upregulation of phosphorylated STAT3, thereby exacerbating liver inflammation and tumor recurrence. On the other hand, macrophages SYK can promote the recruitment of neutrophils and increase the activation of NLRP3 inflammasome and IL1β, which further promotes the formation of NETs.
Conclusions
Our study demonstrates that neutrophil and macrophage SYK synergistically promote hepatic IRI and tumor recurrence, and SYK may be a potential target to improve postoperative hepatic IRI and tumor recurrence.
Clinical characteristics and outcomes of Malabar Pit Viper envenomation from North Kerala
Authors: Rejeev Devapriya , Mohanachandran Sreelakshmi , Basheer Aneesh
Published: July 2024

Snake bite is an important public health problem in all the tropical countries, and especially in India. Malabar pit viper, being endemic to western ghats of India, is responsible for many snake bites in this region. We conducted a retrospective study on Malabar pit viper bites between January 2021 and December 2022 at our tertiary care center in Wayanad. We identified 20 confirmed cases of Malabar pit viper envenomation and data pertaining to bite site, fang marks, local reaction, basic laboratory reports, 20-minute whole blood clotting time (WBCT), administration of Anti-Snake Venom (ASV), dose of ASV, reactions, duration of hospital stay, and outcomes of patients was ascertained. Bites were in the upper limb in 14 (70%) of the 20 patients. The 20-minute WBCT was prolonged in 8 (40%) out of 20 patients. Among the 20 cases, 15 (75%) received one or more doses of ASV. All patients recovered without any residual effects with two patients (10%) developing complications due to cellulitis and ASV allergic reaction respectively. Development of species specific antivenom and awareness about clinical profile and outcomes of MPV envenomation will help to rationalize use of the expensive and scarce polyvalent ASV in India.
CO2 Dynamics in a Mofette: Measurement and Modeling
Authors: Gergely Attila , Gál Ágnes , Szakács Alexandru , Néda Zoltán
Published: July 2024

We investigated the CO2 emissions in a mofette gas pool located in Covasna, Romania. Using a custom-built remote sensing device, we monitored the gas concentrations, temperature, and pressure for seven months. The measurements showed both diurnal cycles and short-term bursts of CO2 emissions along with instances of erratic yield anomalies. We employed the convection-diffusion equation to estimate gas flow rates without altering the natural state of the mofette. We also developed a model that uses the measured pressure and temperature to predict the CO2 outflow yield. The model's overall predictions approximate well the observed CO2 flux. However, the subtle mismatches between these two suggest that subsurface geological processes, which require further investigation, may also influence the gas flow. This research provides insights into the dynamics of focused CO2 emissions, with potential applications in environmental monitoring and therapeutic practices.
Life under the rainbow: Self-harm and suicidality among LGBT community in Bangladesh
Authors: Mozumder Muhammad Kamruzzaman
Published: July 2024

Background.
The LGBT communities in Bangladesh live in precarious conditions under the legal and social sections against them. This study was carried out in a context where data on suicidality among these sexual minority communities in Bangladesh exist little beyond anecdotal reports.
Methods.
A countrywide cross-sectional survey was carried out to collect data from LGBT (n = 297) and cisgender (n = 86) participants. Snowball sampling was used for generally secretive LGBT participants.
Results.
Findings indicated significantly higher prevalences of self-harm (direct and indirect), death wish, suicidal ideation, and suicide attempt among the LGBT communities compared to the cisgender population. The lesbians reported the highest lifetime prevalence for indirect self-harm (62%), direct self-harm (56%), death wish (74%) and suicidal ideation (53%). Reported suicide attempts were most common among gays (41%) closely followed by lesbians (38%) and transgenders (36%). When compared with the cisgender population, the odds of these experiences ranged from 3.97 to 13.17 for lesbians, 2.34 to 9.26 for gays, 1.37 to 2.91 for bisexuals, and 2.21 to 13.41 for transgenders.
Conclusion.
The findings bring forth a dire picture of the high risk of suicidality among the hidden sexual minority communities in Bangladesh and are expected to contribute to evidence-informed policymaking.
Enhancing ground loss rate prediction in soft-soil shield tunneling—A synergistic approach of Peck back analysis and eXtreme Gradient Boosting and Bayesian optimization
Authors: Ding Zhi , Tu Wenrong , Li Xinjia
Published: July 2024

Due to the characteristics of soft soil, ground settlement is highly prone to occur in the construction process, and ground loss is one of the essential factors causing ground settlement in shield tunneling. This study calculates the ground loss rate of some shielded soft-soil sections in the Hangzhou area using Peck’s back analysis method. It examines the influences of the geological parameters and the geometric parameters of a tunnel on the ground loss rate through data analysis to develop a model for predicting the ground loss rate in soft-soil areas. Then the model for predicting the ground loss rate based on eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) and Bayesian optimization is established, and the prediction method of the ground loss rate, combining the surface settlement value, detailed geological parameters, the geometric parameters of the tunnel, and construction parameters, is innovatively proposed. The results show that the soil properties and the grouting factors of the excavation face affect the duration of the instantaneous settlement of the ground surface. There is a specific correlation between the depth-to-diameter ratio, the coefficient of variation in the advancing speed of the shield machine, the maximum surface subsidence, and the ground loss rate. The prediction model of the ground loss rate based on the synergistic approach of Peck back analysis and eXtreme Gradient Boosting and Bayesian optimization has high reliability in soft-soil layers, and this method can provide a specific reference for predicting construction risk in related projects.
Depressive mixed state and anxious distress as risk factors for suicidality during major depressive episodes
Authors: Ota Kazuki , Shinzato Hotaka , Otsuka Naoaki , Zamami Yu , Kurihara Kazuhiro , Futenma Kunihiro , Kondo Tsuyoshi , Takaesu Yoshikazu
Published: July 2024

Accurately assessing and predicting suicidality in patients with depression are challenging for researchers and clinicians. We examined various risk factors for suicidality during major depressive episodes (MDE), especially focusing on depressive mixed state (DMX) and anxious distress (AD). We recruited 187 patients with MDE and divided them into two groups—with and without suicidality—defined as the cut-off score of 1 or more on the suicidality sub-item in the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology-Self Report. The presence of DMX was defined as a total score of 13 or more on the self-administered 8-item questionnaire for DMX. We used multivariate logistic regression analysis with the presence or absence of suicidality as a dependent variable for investigating factors associated with suicidality. The with suicidality group was younger and indicated a greater proportion of past suicide attempts, AD, and DMX than the without suicidality group. Logistic regression analysis revealed that AD (P = 0.047) and DMX (P = 0.018) were significantly associated with suicidality. AD and DMX may promote suicidality during MDE. These two psychopathological features should be carefully monitored and intensively treated for the prevention of suicide-related events.
The Effect of Fear of Covid-19 on Anxiety and Postpartum Depression in Postpartum Women: Cross-sectional study
Authors: KIZOGLU Cennet Nur , BEKTAS HATİCE ACAR
Published: July 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to determine the effect of fear of Covid-19 on anxiety and postpartum depression in postpartum women.
Methods
The research, which is cross-sectional, was conducted online between December 2021 and May 2022 on 110 postpartum women who were between 2 and 4 weeks postpartum. Data were collected using a personal data collection form, Fear of Covid-19 Scale (FCV-19S), General Anxiety Disorder 7 (GAD 7) and Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS). In the analysis of the data, minimum-maximum values, percentages and numbers were given, and the relationship between the scale scores was examined with Pearson correlation analysis. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors affecting postpartum depression.
Results
The average age of women is 29.98 ± 5.62. 13.60% of the participating postpartum women were diagnosed with Covid-19 during their pregnancy, and 69.10% of them were diagnosed with Covid-19 by a relative of the pregnant woman. It was determined that 73.60% of the participants in the research had received the Covid-19 vaccine. The prevalence of postpartum depression was found to be 30.90%. It was determined that 18.20% of the participants suffered from general anxiety. The average score of the fear of Covid-19 scale was determined as 14.27 ± 6.55.
Conclusion
It was determined that an increase in the GAD 7 and FCV-19S scale scores increased the postpartum depression score.