bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Securing Tomorrow's Generation: An Approach Utilizing Machine Learning Models for Children's Online Safety
Authors: Pir Rumel Mohammed Saifur Rahman , Rabbi Md. Forhad , Islam M. Jahirul
Published: June 2024

The increasing usage of online platforms by children in the fast-changing digital environment has raised worries over potential privacy and security hazards. Despite previous study efforts, there are still significant unresolved concerns, particularly the absence of a methodical and all-encompassing approach to comprehending the social safety concerns associated with digital platforms. This involves integrating security and privacy elements with qualitative and categorical data gathered from the viewpoints of children. In order to fill this void, our study undertakes a comprehensive analysis of children's online encounters, collecting firsthand observations from children themselves. Prior to the primary investigation, a preliminary survey was carried out using a cohort of 30 children to authenticate our methodology, hence guiding the development of survey questionnaires. Afterwards, data from a total of 383 children were gathered for analysis. The study develops two models for the dataset—Privacy (Model-I) and Security (Model-II). Employing Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and machine learning algorithms such as Decision Tree, Logistic Regression, Random Forest, and Gaussian Naive Bayes, these models address specific privacy and security concerns. The results unveil intriguing insights into children's perspectives on online privacy and security. In Model-I, 90.1% of children report preserved privacy, with 9.9% reporting violations, while in Model-II, 71.3% of children perceive their security as preserved, with 28.7% reporting violations. Comparing children's perspectives in both models enhances digital safety. This research provides actionable insights from a systematic approach using statistical and machine learning techniques. Our key new finding underscores the importance of considering children's perspectives in policy development for online safety, informing evidence-based interventions and policies. Our systematic approach, built from different techniques, offers a practical and scalable solution for defining privacy and security violations among a vast population of children, enabling policymakers and related child-concerning bodies to easily identify and address such issues across diverse regions and sectors.
Research on wireless precise nerve electrical stimulation method based on liquid metal
Authors: Wang Yuheng , Lin Junjie , Zhu Kai , Nie Yuhui , Wang Mengyuan , Ma Xiaoxu , Liu Xu , Wang Ruru , Mai Wenshu , Chu Fangxuan , Liu Ruixu , Wu Jiankang , Jin Jingna , Zhou Xiaoqing , Ma Ren , Wang Xin , Yin Tao , Liu Zhipeng , Zhang Shunqi
Published: June 2024

Background
Neural electrical stimulation is a crucial technique for treating central nervous system and peripheral nervous system disorders. However, the use of invasive electrodes presents risks such as high implantation risk, mechanical stress, electrical connection requirements, power supply difficulties. On the other hand, non-invasive magnetic stimulation has limitations such as centimeter-level focal areas and shallow stimulation depth.
Methods
To overcome these challenges, we propose a minimally invasive approach that involves the injection of a highly conductive, flexible liquid metal (LM) combined with an 8-shaped magnetic stimulation coil (8-coil). This combination aims to enhance the precision and effectiveness of wireless electrical stimulation. An electric field measurement platform was established, and the efficacy of this method was validated through stimulation of the sciatic nerve in mice.
Results
Theoretical analysis and finite element simulations demonstrated that the combination of LM and 8-coil produces a millimeter-scale enhanced vector electric field within tissues. The actual measured electric field distribution closely aligned with theoretical and simulated outcomes. In experiments involving mouse sciatic nerves, 1 μL of LM in a 0.45 T magnetic field significantly increased electromyographic signals and leg movement amplitude by 500%, with no adverse reactions observed.
Conclusions
This method utilizes focused electric fields to improve the precision and effectiveness of neuro-electromagnetic stimulation. It holds promise as a novel approach for precise electrical stimulation.
Transient Exposure of Humans to Animal Trypanosomes in Communities Highly Exposed to Tsetse Fly Bite
Authors: Addo Kofi Agyapong , Tweneboah Austine , Addison Thomas Kwame , Mahamat Ibrahim Alhadj Moussa , Antwi Kwasi Baako , Afriyie Stephen Opoku , Boampong Kwadwo , Glover Matthew Addo , Berger Petre , Kelm Soerge , Badu Kingsley
Published: June 2024

Case reports of some Trypanosomes (Trypanosoma congolense, Trypanosoma evansi, Trypanosoma brucei brucei, and Trypanosoma vivax) thought to be natural parasites only to animals have been reported to cause “atypical human trypanosomiasis” (a-HT). This study therefore aimed to provide molecular-based evidence of the circulation of animal trypanosome ITS1 DNA in asymptomatic Ghanaian individuals.
A cross-sectional community-based study design was used to collect venous blood and urine samples from 240 human participants. PCR assays were performed targeting Trypanosoma Internal Transcribed Spacer 1 (ITS1) and human apolipoprotein genes. Amplicons were purified and subcloned. Transformed cells were confirmed by PCR. Positive clones were cultured overnight, purified and sequenced.
The overall rate of positive tests for trypanosome ITS1 DNA detection was 15.8% (38/240). The highest percentage of trypanosome ITS1 DNA detected (19.2%) was recorded for Zorh, followed by Nkatenkwan (17.9%). Trypanosome parasites found in this study area were Trypanozoon, T. congolense, T. vivaxand T. simiae. There were no mutations in codons 142 or 266 of the ApoL-1 gene in the trypanosome ITS1 DNA-positive subjects.
There is a high rate of trypanosome ITS1 DNA detection among humans in the study area. This underscores the need to investigate the impact of animal parasites on human health.
Baseline data and recommendations to decrease the introduction and spread of invasive non-native species in federal and state protected areas in Brazil
Authors: Figueiredo Ana Luiza Castelo Branco , Futada Silvia de Melo , de Lima Renato Fiacador , Pacheco Pablo , Parra Lilian Bulbarelli , Puechagut Patricia Beatriz , de Siqueira Carlos Eduardo , Dechoum Michele de Sá
Published: June 2024

The number of invasive non-native species (INNS) has been increasing in Brazilian protected areas (PAs) in the last decades, even though Brazil is close to reaching the Global Biodiversity Framework Target of having at least 30% of the territory conserved in PAs. The main aim of our study is to identify spatial patterns and factors that describe the number of INNS in federal and state protected areas in Brazil. We integrated and standardized three sources of occurrences of INNS in federal and state PAs with a new database built for this study based on occurrences reported in 424 management plans (MP). A generalized linear model was used to assess the factors that best describe the number of INNS in PA using biome, year of PA creation, PA area, PA group, and PA category as fixed effects. We compiled 5,631 occurrences of 150 invasive animals, 179 invasive plants, four ferns, three protists, one alga, and one bryophyte. Protected areas with the highest number of INNS are concentrated along the coast, in the Atlantic Forest biome, especially in the south and southeast of Brazil. Biome, PA category, and PA year of creation were the most important variables in the model. We expect our results to show the magnitude of biological invasions in Brazilian PAs and we provide baseline data and recommendations to be used as reference for the development of policies and management actions at regional and local levels, thus contributing to the achievement of KMGBF targets.
Time synchronisation for millisecond-precision on bio-loggers
Authors: Wild Timm A. , Wilbs Georg , Dechmann Dina , Kohles Jenna E. , Linek Nils , Mattingly Sierra , Richter Nina , Sfenthourakis Spyros , Nicolaou Haris , Erotokritou Elena , Wikelski Martin
Published: June 2024

Time-synchronised data streams from bio-loggers are becoming increasingly important for analysing and interpreting intricate animal behaviour including split-second decision making, group dynamics, and collective responses to environmental conditions. With the increased use of AI-based approaches for behaviour classification, time synchronisation between recording systems is becoming an essential challenge. Current solutions in bio-logging rely on manually removing time errors during post processing, which is complex and typically does not achieve sub-second timing accuracies. We first introduce an error model to quantify time errors, then optimise three wireless methods for automated onboard time (re)synchronisation on bio-loggers (GPS, WiFi, proximity messages). The methods can be combined as required and, when coupled with a state-of-the-art real time clock, facilitate accurate time annotations for all types of bio-logging data without need for post processing. We analyse time accuracy of our optimised methods in stationary tests and in a case study on 99 Egyptian fruit bats (Rousettus aegyptiacus). Based on the results, we offer recommendations for projects that require high time synchrony. In our case study with bats, we achieved a median relative time accuracy of 40 ms between tags throughout the entire 10-day duration of tag deployment. During stationary tests, our low power synchronisation methods achieved median time accuracies of 2.72 / 0.43 ms (GPS / WiFi), compared to UTC time, and relative median time accuracies of 5 ms between tags (wireless proximity messages). Using only one automated resynchronisation per day, permanent UTC time accuracies of ≤ 185 ms can be guaranteed in 95% of cases over a wide temperature range between 0 to 50°C. Accurate timekeeping required a minimal battery capacity, operating in the nano- to microwatt range. Time measurements on bio-loggers, similar to other forms of sensor-derived data, are prone to errors and so far received little scientific attention. Our combinable methods offer a means to quantify time errors and autonomously correct them at the source (i.e., on bio-loggers). This approach facilitates sub-second comparisons of simultaneously recorded time series data across multiple individuals and off-animal devices such as cameras or weather stations. Through automated resynchronisations on bio-loggers, long-term sub-second accurate timestamps become feasible, even for life-time studies on animals. We contend that our methods have potential to greatly enhance the quality of ecological data, thereby improving scientific conclusions.
Air quality monitoring of Kochi city using spider web as bioindicator
Authors: Anil Archana T , Joseph Mathew M.
Published: June 2024

A study was conducted to monitor the air quality of Kochi city using webs of two different spider species as samples. Spider silk can be better accumulator of pollutants than other bio-indicators (Rybak,2015). Webs of Pholcus phalangioides (Fuesslin, 1775) and Cyrtophora spp (Simon,1864) were sampled simultaneously from three sites of Kochi and its suburbs, Kizhakkambalam, FACT Udyogamandal and Sacred Heart College Campus, Thevara for a period of four months.
Spectroscopic analysis of 24 web samples using ICP-OES detected higher heavy metal concentration at the third site- Thevara followed by Fact and the least at Kizhakkambalam, the suburban area of Kochi. We observed that the most accumulated heavy metal to be Iron (Fe) and least Mercury (Hg). Concentration of thirteen heavy metals, Ag, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mo, Ni,, Sn, Pb, Hg, and Zn in parts per million (ppm) were analyzed to evaluate the various vehicular and industrial emission at Kochi. This study concludes that accumulation of various heavy metals are several times greater than previously reported studies.
COVID-19 clinical rebound after treatment with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir
Authors: Camp Daniel , Caputo Matthew , Echevarria Fabiola Moreno , Achenbach Chad J.
Published: June 2024

Background: Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (NM/r) is a safe and effective oral antiviral therapeutic used for treatment of mild-to-moderate COVID-19. Case reports described a clinical rebound syndrome whereby individuals experience a relapse of symptoms shortly after completing successful treatment. There is a lack of information on frequency of COVID-19 rebound after NM/r in routine clinical care, contributing factors, and clinical outcomes.
Methods: We reviewed electronic medical records to verify COVID-19 diagnosis, symptoms, and treatment with NM/r from January-June 2022. We defined COVID-19 clinical rebound as clear improvement in symptoms followed by recurrence or worsening of symptoms within 30 days of a five-day course of NM/r.
Results: We studied 268 adults with median age 57 (IQR 47, 68), 80% White race, 85% non-Hispanic ethnicity, 55% female, 80% vaccinated and boosted against SARS-CoV-2, and 68% with any co-morbidity. Sixteen (6.0%) of studied patients were determined to have COVID-19 clinical rebound. The median time from starting NM/r to rebound was 11 days (IQR 9, 13). Notable demographic and clinical factors with higher proportion (not statistically significant) among COVID-19 rebound patients were female sex (75% rebound vs 54.5% no rebound), Black race (12.5% rebound vs 4.9% no rebound), presence of at least one co-morbidity (81.3% rebound vs 67.5% no rebound), and lack of prior SARS-CoV-2 infection (100% rebound vs 92.9% no rebound). Only one patient (6.25%) was hospitalized after COVID-19 rebound.
Conclusions: COVID-19 clinical rebound after treatment with NM/r is mild with favorable outcomes and more common than previously reported from real-world clinical care studies.
From Warm to Cold: Feeding Cold Milk in Preterm Infants with Uncoordinated Oral Feeding Patterns
Authors: Hanna Nazeeh , Ferrara-Gonzalez Louisa , Kamity Ranjith , Htun Zeyar , Dumpa Vikramaditya , Islam Shahidul
Published: June 2024

Objective: Premature infants frequently face feeding challenges due to disrupted coordination of sucking, swallowing, and breathing, increasing their risk of dysphagia. There are few effective treatment options available. This study aims to assess the safety of cold milk feedings in preterm infants diagnosed with uncoordinated feeding patterns and its effect on feeding performance.
Study Design: Preterm infants with uncoordinated feeding patterns (n=26) were randomized to be fed milk at either room or cold temperature (refrigerator cold) using an experimental, randomized crossover design. We monitored axillary and gastric content temperatures, mesenteric blood flow, and feeding performance.
Result: The findings suggest that preterm infants can safely tolerate cold milk without any clinically significant changes in temperature or mesenteric blood flow, and it may enhance feeding performance.
Conclusion: Cold milk feeding could be a safe therapeutic option for preterm infants, however additional comprehensive studies are still needed. Registered at clinicaltrials.org #NCT04421482.
Social Factors Affecting Home-Based End-of-Life Care for Patients with Cancer and Primary Caregivers
Authors: Hiramoto Shuji , Hashimoto Ryu , Morita Tatsuya , Kizawa Yoshiyuki , Tsuneto Satoru , Shima Yasuo , Masukawa Kento , Miyashita Mitsunori , Hitosughi Masahito
Published: June 2024

Objective
This study explored how the economic and social circumstances of patients' and their caregivers influenced home-based care.
Methods
A secondary analysis was conducted using the dataset (home-based end-of-life care N = 625, hospital end-of-life care N = 7603) Comprehensive patient-based survey conducted by The Study on Quality Evaluation of Hospice and Palliative Care by Bereaved Caregivers (J-HOPE 4), and multivariate analysis (multiple logistic regression) to explore the impact of social factors of patients and caregivers on the success of home-based end-of-life care. The main objective of the analysis was to examine the social factors in home-based end-of-life care, with hospital care as a control. The explanatory variables included 11 social factors of patients, such as age and sex, and 18 social factors of primary caregivers.
Results
For patients with medical expenses less than 100,000 yen (Odds ratio: OR 2.06), household income of 4 million yen or more (OR 0.67), preferences for home care (OR 1.49), preferences to die at home (OR 1.58), wish to die at home (OR 1.52), and lack of patient’s financial well-being (OR 0.72) were significant factors associated with home-based end-of-life care. Significant factors for caregivers included male caregivers (OR 0.66), poor mental state (OR 0.79), ability to provide daily care (OR 3.02), experience of caring for a deceased family member (OR 0.66), presence of alternative caregivers (OR 0.78), and cohabitation with caregivers (OR 1.47).
Conclusion
Patient preferences, social situations, primary caregivers' social situations, and mental states influenced home-based end-of-life care.
Magnetic Properties of epitaxial Re/Co1-xAux/Pt heterostructures
Authors: Jena Sukanta Kumar , Dhiman Anuj Kumar , Lynnyk Artem , Lenz Kilian , Patel Gauravkumar Ishwarbhai , Pietruczik Aleksiej , Aleszkiewicz Paweł , Lindner Jürgen , Dłużewski Piotr , Gieniusz Ryszard , Maziewski Andrzej , Milińska Ewelina , Wawro Andrzej
Published: June 2024

We investigate epitaxial Co(20 Å) and Co1-xAux(20 Å) alloy thin-films surrounded by asymmetric heavy metals layers of Re(10 Å) as a buffer and Pt(30 Å) as a cap to study the magnetic anisotropy, interfacial Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya interaction (iDMI) and damping. The increase of Au from 0% to 25% in the Co1-xAux alloy generates the spin-reorientation transition of around 13% of Au. The increase in Au concentration provides a significant decrease in saturation magnetization from 1690 kA/m to 982 kA/m measured for Co and Co75Au25, respectively. The effective anisotropy constant Keff is elevated up to 0.33 MJ/m3 by changing the Au content. Further, our investigations of the magnetization dynamics have confirmed that the overall effective damping constant rises with the Au concentration which can be attributed to the spin pumping effect. The spin pumping leads to the highest value of effective spin mixing conductance g(↑↓)≈2.91×1018/m2 in the Co90Au10(20 Å) system, while the lowest value of g(↑↓)≈2.25×1018/m2 is found for the Co(20 Å) system. Additionally, we have investigated the iDMI strength, and the amplitude of iDMI decreases with increasing Au concentration. The highest surface iDMI constant value equal to 2.62 pJ/m is observed for Co.
Zika virus non-structural proteins B-cell epitope mapping in mother-newborn immune interaction
Authors: Soares¹ Anderson Pereira , Olórtegui² Carlos Delfín Chávez , Neto¹ Daniel Ferreira Lima , Cunha Marielton dos Passos , Grillo³ Thamirys Cosmo , Silva Maurício Feliciano , Silva Andrea Cristina Botelho , Bertozzi Ana Paula , Bonafé Carlos Francisco Sampaio , Passos Saulo Duarte , Zanotto Paolo Marinho Andrade
Published: June 2024

During the period from May to November 2015, Zika virus (ZIKV) infections gained global attention in Brazil. ZIKV, a Flavivirus transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes, initially identified in 1947, has evolved from a historically inconspicuous pathogen to a significant public health concern. Beyond mild symptoms resembling dengue fever, severe conditions such as microcephaly and Guillain-Barré syndrome have been linked to ZIKV. This study focuses on epitope mapping in ZIKV non-structural proteins (NS1, NS3, and NS5), exploring the interaction with maternal and newborn immune responses through SPOT-synthesis. The objectives include establishing epitope profiles in Zika-positive individuals and correlating maternal-newborn responses. Serum samples were collected from mothers and newborns, was born in Zika Cohort Jundiai research, and Sergipe Cohort. Epitope mapping experiments was conducted using a cellulose membrane-based SPOT-synthesis technique. Notably, regions in NS1, NS3, and NS5 proteins exhibited high membrane reactivity and epitope recognition. NS1, a key antigenic marker, holds potential as an early biomarker for ZIKV detection. Additionally, NS3 and NS5 proteins displayed immunogenic potential with differential responses in newborns. The study enhances understanding of ZIKV immunology and suggests further investigations for epitope validation and potential vaccine development.
Laparoscopic Versus Open Surgery for Rectal Neuroendocrine Tumors: A Multicenter Real-World Study
Authors: Zeng Xinyu , Li Chengguo , Yu Minhao , Zhang Rui , Lin Guole , Di Maojun , Wu Hongxue , Sun Yueming , Xiong Zhiguo , Jiang Congqing , Yu Bin , Zhou Shengning , Li Yong , Liao Xiaofeng , Xia Lijian , Zhang Wei , Jiang Weizhong , tao kaixiong
Published: June 2024

Background
Due to the lack of large sample evidence-based medical studies, the surgical approach for radical resection of rectal neuroendocrine tumors is controversial.
Methods
We retrospectively collected the medical records of rectal neuroendocrine tumors patients who underwent radical resection at 17 large tertiary care hospitals in China, from January 1, 2010 to April 30, 2022. All patients were divided into laparoscopic surgery group and open surgery group. After propensity score matching was used to reduce confounders, postoperative and oncologic outcomes were compared between the groups.
Results
We enrolled 174 patients with rectal neuroendocrine tumors who underwent radical surgery. After random matching, 124 patients were included in the comparison (62 in the laparoscopic surgery group vs. 62 in the open surgery group). The laparoscopic surgery group had fewer complications(14.5% vs. 35.5%, P = 0.048) and superior relapse-free survival (P = 0.048). There was no significant difference in the R0 resection rate, operation time, and postoperative hospital stay. Subgroup analysis revealed that the laparoscopic surgery group had fewer complications (10.9% vs 34.7%, P = 0.004), shorter postoperative hospital stays (9.56 ± 5.21 days vs 12.31 ± 8.61 days, P = 0.049) and superior relapse-free survival (P = 0.025) in the rectal neuroendocrine tumors ≤ 4 cm subgroup.
Conclusions
Laparoscopic surgery is associated with improved postoperative outcomes and oncologic prognosis for patients with rectal neuroendocrine tumors ≤ 4 cm and can serve as a safe and feasible option of radical surgery of rectal neuroendocrine tumors.
Effects of psychological interventions for adults with systemic lupus erythematosus: a network meta-analysis
Authors: Sun Yanan , Wang Fang , Zhao Mengmeng
Published: June 2024

Background
Psychological interventions have been demonstrated to be effective in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). However, limited evidence on the effects of different psychological interventions were provided by previous studies or traditional meta-analysis.
Methods
This updated meta-analysis aimed to synthesize and analyze the effectiveness of psychological interventions on SLE patients.PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were systematically searched. Inclusion criteria included 1) adults with SLE; 2) effects of psychological interventions were assessed; 3) outcomes of psychological impact and disease activity in the intervention group and control group were reported; 4) randomized controlled trials. We calculated standardized mean difference (SMD) of outcomes with the respective 95% confidence interval (CIs). Heterogeneity between enrolled studies was evaluated using the I2 statistics.
Results
Seven studies with 574 SLE patients were included in this meta-analysis. The SMDs for mean change in fatigue, physical function, mental health, pain, depression, and disease activity scores from the beginning to the end of the follow-up interval in the psychological intervention group and control group was − 0.48 [(95% CI: -0.64, -0.04), z=-2.24, p = 0.0251; I2 = 41%, p = 0.1669], 0.27 [(95% CI: 0.06, 0.49), z = 2.47, p = 0.0137; I2 = 1%, p = 0.3892], 0.17 [(95% CI: -0.27, 0.60), z = 0.75, p = 0.4519; I2 = 72%, p = 0.0274], 0.26 [(95% CI: -0.16, 0.68), z = 1.23, p = 0.2200; I2 = 0%, p = 0.3783], -0.67 [(95% CI: -1.60, 0.26), z=-1. 42, p = 0.1570; I2 = 89%, p < 0.0001], and − 0.02 [(95% CI: -0.24, 0.20), z=-0.17, p = 0.8652; I2 = 0%, p = 0.6718].
Conclusions
This meta-analysis indicates that psychological intervention effectively improves fatigue and physical function in patients with SLE.
Assessing the Diagnostic Potential of Hemoglobin-Platelet and Lymphocyte- Monocyte Ratios for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Buckman Tonnies Abeku , Sakyi Samuel Asamoah , Yorke Joseph , Laryea Jonathan , Nagalo Bolni Marius , Senu Ebenezer , Effah Alfred , Yorke Dennis Afful , Addei Akwasi Minnah , Osei-Bonsu Ernest , Boakye Emelia Osei , Acheampong Emmanuel
Published: June 2024

Background
Colorectal cancer ranks as the third most diagnosed and second most lethal cancer globally. The challenge of early detection, essential for better outcomes, lies in the often non-specific or absent early symptoms, resulting in low diagnosis rates, particularly in resource-limited settings. For the first time, This study pioneers the evaluation of the diagnostic utility of hematological parameters, specifically the lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (LMR) and the hemoglobin-platelet ratio (HPR), in pre-operative CRC patients in Ghana.
Method
This unmatched case control study recruited 50 CRC patients pathologically diagnosed colorectal cancer and 50 healthy controls. Venous blood samples were collected for laboratory analyses using Beckmann780. All statistical analyses were performed using R Statistical Software (v4.3.2; R Core Team The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and logistics regression model were used to assess the individual and combined diagnostic value of haematological parameters in detecting CRC at significance levels of p-value of < 0.05 and .95% confidence interval.
Results
The mean age of cases (55.92 years) was significantly higher than controls (37.92 years) (p < 0.0001). The clinical presentation of CRC patients wa mainlychanges in bowl (48.0%) and bleeding per rectum (42.0%). Colon cancer represented 58% of cases while rectal cancer represented 42%. Adenocarcinoma was the most common histologic type(100%). CRC patients had significantly lower levels of lymphocyte-monocyte ratio (p < 0.0001), haemoglobin-platelet ratio (p < 0.0001) and platelet-lymphocyte ratio (p < 0.05) compared to controls. At a cut-off of ≤ 0.068, HPR was the diagnostic marker for detecting CRC with high sensitivity of 81.6%, specificity of 98.0%, a positive predictive value of 97.6%, and a negative predictive value of 84.5% as well as area under the curve and accuracy of 91.6% and 89.9% respectively. HPR in combination with LMR (cOR: 3106682390.00, 95% CI: (0.00-inf); p = 0.9988) showed a significant increased chances of detecting CRC among study subjects.
Conclusion
The study identifies HPR as a potent standalone diagnostic marker for CRC and underscores its improved diagnostic efficacy when combined with LMR. This combination offers a cost-effective and accurate diagnostic tool for CRC, especially valuable in settings with limited resources.
Wildfire Towers Drive Firebrand Lofting: Insights from Coupled Fire-Atmosphere Model Simulations
Authors: Kumar Mukesh , Josephson Alexander , Koo Eunmo , Linn Rod
Published: June 2024

Previous studies have highlighted the complexity of wildfire behavior, emphasizing the significance of firebrand dynamics in contributing to the spread and severity of wildfires. While these studies provide foundational knowledge, the specific role of wildland fires' towers and troughs in firebrand lofting has never been addressed. This work aims to illustrate the intricate relationship between the wildland fire tower and trough phenomena and firebrand lofting. Through physics-based simulations, we show the presence of wildland fire towers and troughs drives the spatial distribution of generated firebrands as well as the vertical trajectory of lofted firebrands. We found that the majority of firebrands (78.85 %) get lofted from wildfire towers which are the regions of updrafts while the remaining firebrands enter into troughs during the lofting process which severally limits the height and distance that they travel. The results of this study are helpful for foresters and land managers in planning as well for researchers in advancing the existing model capabilities that can save communities and enhance the safety of firefighters from wind-driven fires where there are higher risk of spot fires.
Stress-Modulated Control of TCF and Frequency Shift in 4H-SiC Beam Resonators for Enhanced Thermal Stability
Authors: Long Yaoyao , Liu Zhenming , Jiang Xinyu , Li Ningxin , Ayazi Farrokh
Published: June 2024

Precision time and frequency references are critical components in electronic devices, impacting sectors such as wireless communications, global positioning systems, and network synchronization. While quartz-based oscillators have historically dominated the market, micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) resonators are emerging as potential successors, albeit with challenges related to thermal frequency drifts. This paper presents doubly-clamped beam resonators in monocrystalline 4H-silicon carbide (4H-SiC), showcasing a tunable local zero Temperature Coefficient of Frequency (TCF) across a wide temperature range. Our novel approach employs axial stress to counteract temperature-induced softening in the 4H-SiC beam, leveraging the unique attributes of a 4H-SiC on insulator (SiCOI) substrate with a silicon handle layer. By manipulating the beam’s geometrical dimensions, we demonstrate the capability to define the TCF turnover point from -20°C to 100°C and tailor the overall frequency shift. The fabrication process ensures strong covalent interlayer bonds in the 4H-SiCOI substrate, eliminating frequency hysteresis and enhancing yield and stability metrics. We conducted comprehensive short- and long-term stability tests, showing that our resonators exhibit negligible frequency hysteresis across temperature cycles and exceptional long-term stability. Our findings enrich the current understanding of 4H-SiC MEMS resonator thermal stability and pave the way for future innovations in timekeeping and frequency reference technologies. This study underscores the potential of stress-modulated 4H-SiC resonators as reliable, efficient, and versatile instruments for advanced precision timing applications.
Research on the grouting plugging mechanism of layered jointed rock mass based on the time-varying yield stress of grout
Authors: Zhe Yalei , Hou Kepeng , Wang Zongyong , Yang Shifei , Yu Yunlin , Yang Yong
Published: June 2024

The key to successfully treating water disasters with grouting is the diffusion range and the grout's ultimate efficient retention in the cracks; the gel qualities of the grout are crucial in this process of diffusion plugging. In earlier research, the time-varying viscosity of grout was given more attention than the yield stress, which is also subject to variation that grout must pass through to migrate. Groundwater migrates and stores through the interlayer opening fissure and vertical connecting fissure in the stratified jointed physical and chemical rock mass. The impact of plugging is only sometimes complete when the grouting is halted after filling the water-conducting crack. The grout will sink and cause grouting plugging faults and failure to meet water control criteria when its dead weight exceeds the yield stress in the vertical fissure. Studying how time-varying yield stress affects the grouting sealing mechanism during grouting is therefore crucial. This work introduces the notion of grouting diffusion decay and establishes a theoretical model based on the time-varying yield stress of grout. The steady pressure time during grouting is the key to ensuring the dispersion and ultimate retention of grout in the space range. The lowest stable pressure time for grouting and the change function for the height of decay are determined. A 3D visualization laboratory test instrument for grouting diffusion decay of layered jointed physical and chemical rock mass is constructed to confirm that the theoretical model is accurate. According to the research findings, the grouting duration can be reasonably planned, and efficiency can be increased while guaranteeing the grouting's sealing effect. This is crucial to developing the theoretical framework of grouting technology.
Longitudinal Association between Hemoglobin and Lung Function with Insights into the Incidence of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: An Observational Study
Authors: Kim Jihoon , Kim Yun Tae , Leem Ah Young , Jung Ji Ye , Kim Young Sam , Park Youngmok
Published: June 2024

Background
Evidence regarding the long-term association between hemoglobin (Hb) level and lung function in healthy individuals is scarce. This study aimed to determine the longitudinal association between Hb level and lung function in a community-based population cohort in South Korea.
Methods
We used linear mixed regression analysis to evaluate the longitudinal associations between Hb levels and lung function parameters, including forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC. Additionally, we used a generalized estimating equation to calculate the odds ratio (OR) of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) according to Hb level.
Results
Over an 8-year biennial follow-up of 4,468 patients (median age, 53.9 years; men, 49.0%), we observed that in men, Hb levels were positively associated with lung function (estimated values of FVC: 16.7 mL, FEV1: 15.5 mL, FEV1/FVC: 0.18%; all P < 0.001) and a decreased incidence of COPD (OR = 0.83, P < 0.001). In women, Hb levels were positively associated with FVC but not with FEV1 or FEV1/FVC (estimated values of FVC: 4.7 mL, P = 0.045; FEV1: 3.1 mL, P = 0.142; FEV1/FVC: 0.01%, P = 0.838). The incidence of COPD was not significantly different among women (OR = 0.93, P = 0.568). In postmenopausal women, higher Hb levels were associated with increased lung function (estimated values of FVC: 11.8 mL, P < 0.001; FEV1: 9.8 mL, P < 0.001; FEV1/FVC: 0.09%, P = 0.052), but the incidence of COPD was not statistically significant (OR = 0.93, P = 0.568).
Conclusions
A decreased Hb level was associated with reduced lung function and an increased incidence of COPD in men.
Intraductal laser ablation during ductoscopy in patients with pathological nipple discharge
Authors: Makineli Seher , Vriens Menno R. , Diest Paul J. , Witkamp Arjen J.
Published: June 2024

Background: Ductoscopy is a minimally invasive micro-endoscopic approach for direct visualization and removal of intraductal lesions of the breast. A challenge of ductoscopy is an adequate treatment of intraductal lesions by complete removal to prevent exploratory duct excision surgery. This study aimed to determine the in vivo feasibility of intraductal laser ablation during ductoscopy to remove intraductal lesions in patients suffering from pathological nipple discharge (PND).
Methods: A prospective, single-center diagnostic feasibility trial was conducted between October 2022 and November 2023, enrolling adult women with unilateral PND and no radiological suspicion of malignancy. Intraductal laser ablation was performed after incomplete intraductal biopsy using a Thulium laser.
Results: Duct cannulation and subsequent ductoscopic exploration were successful in 21 patients revealing an intraductal lesion in 13 patients (61.9%). From these 13 patients, 9 patients (69.2%) underwent intraductal laser ablation due to a residual lesion after biopsy. Pathology of the removed intraductal lesions showed a papilloma in eight (88.9%) patients and a papilloma/DCIS combination in one patient (11.1%). Post-procedure, PND stopped in 77.8% of the patients (7/9). Two patients had recurrent PND complaints caused by a residual lesion.
Conclusion: Intraductal laser ablation during ductoscopy in patients with papillary lesions seems to be feasible and safe. The Thulium laser enables ablation of residual lesions and is therefore suitable for an immediate second intervention after ductoscopic removal of intraductal lesions. Further refinement and validation in a follow up clinical trial are necessary to further assess its therapeutic efficacy.
Transfer Learning Model forAnomalous Event Recognition in Big Video Data
Authors: Adel Roqaia , Youssif Aliaa , Mostafa Mohamed
Published: June 2024

The primary objective of this research was to enhance video surveillance through the frequent utilization of anomalous event recognition techniques by incorporating transfer learning for recognizing human activity. Every community was extremely concerned with ensuring individual security due to the growing varieties of activities that could cause injury, from malicious acts to accidents. Standard CCTV proved insufficient due to the cost of constant monitoring and the decreasing focus of human operators over time. Automated security systems with real-time anomalous event recognition were essential to solve these problems. In this paper, ResNet50, VGG19, EfficientNetB7, and ViT\_b16 models were used. These models were specifically designed to recognize anomalous events in surveillance videos. To streamline video processing, a semantic key frame extraction algorithm based on action recognition was utilized to minimize the number of frames. The algorithm leveraged enhanced features to analyze real-time anomalous events such as arrests and assaults. The proposed method recognized the difficulty presented by the large volume of frames generated by surveillance videos, requiring effective processing methods. To address the challenge of processing big video data, advanced techniques for managing and analyzing extensive video datasets were incorporated. Including both abnormal and normal video during the training and testing phase, a large number of videos in the UCF-Crime dataset were utilized for model evaluation. EfficientNetB7 achieved 86.34\% accuracy, VGG19 reached 87.90\%, ResNet50 attained 90.46\%, and ViT\_b16 outperformed with 95.87\% accuracy, with the transformer model (ViT\_b16) achieving the best result. These findings illustrated the effectiveness of the proposed method in addressing the complexities of anomalous event recognition in video surveillance applications, particularly in handling the large frames generated by surveillance videos.
Development of Cadmium doped Nickel polymer nano composites for enhanced NH₃ gas sensing applications
Authors: KA Vishnumurthy , N Dhivyadharshini N , S Varun D , Kumar S Dilip , J Basavaraj R
Published: June 2024

Synthesis and characterization of cadmium-doped nickel (Cd-Ni) nanocomposites integrated with polyaniline (PANI) for advanced ammonia (NH₃) gas sensing applications. The Cd-Ni nanocomposites were synthesized via a solution combustion synthesis (SCS) method, providing a facile and efficient route to obtain homogeneous materials. The composites were further incorporated with PANI to enhance their gas sensing properties. Structural, morphological, and compositional properties were analyzed using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Gas sensing performance was evaluated at various NH₃ concentrations and operating temperatures. The Cd-Ni/PANI sensors demonstrated significantly enhanced sensitivity, selectivity, and rapid response/recovery times compared to undoped NiO and Cd-Ni sensors. The improved gas sensing characteristics are attributed to the synergistic effects of cadmium doping and the conductive polymer matrix, which introduces additional active sites and modifies the electronic properties of the nanocomposite. These findings suggest that Cd-Ni/PANI composites are promising candidates for efficient and reliable NH₃ gas sensors, potentially advancing applications in environmental monitoring and industrial safety.
LST1 Expression Correlates with Immune Infiltration and Predicts Poor Prognosis in Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Xu Haitao , Chen Dangui , Zhong Long , Wang Lihong , Chen Fei , Lu Jia
Published: June 2024

Clinical management of acute myeloid leukemia (AML) poses significant challenges due to its poor prognosis and heterogeneous nature. Discovering new biomarkers is crucial for improving risk assessment and customizing treatment approaches. While leukocyte-specific transcript 1 (LST1) is implicated in inflammation and immune regulation, its function in AML remains ambiguous. In this investigation, we conduct a comprehensive investigation into LST1 expression profiles, clinical implications, functional pathways, and immune interactions in AML, leveraging multi-omics data and experimental validations. Our examination shows increased levels of LST1 expression in AML when compared to regular hematopoietic tissues, a discovery validated by RT-qPCR and Western blot analyses in a separate group. Elevated LST1 levels correlate with distinct clinicopathological features, including increased white blood cell counts, non-M3 FAB subtype, and intermediate/poor cytogenetic risk. Importantly, heightened LST1 levels predict unfavorable overall survival outcomes across various subgroups, independently of age and cytogenetic risk. We develop an integrative nomogram incorporating LST1 expression, demonstrating robust prognostic efficacy for patient survival. Transcriptomic profiling identifies 275 differentially expressed genes between LST1-high and -low AML cases, enriched in cytokine signaling, immune modulation, cell adhesion, and oncogenic pathways. Furthermore, LST1 exhibits significant associations with the infiltration of diverse immune cell subsets within the AML microenvironment, particularly myeloid cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs). In conclusion, our study establishes LST1 as a novel prognostic indicator with immunological relevance in AML, emphasizing its potential therapeutic implications. Further mechanistic elucidation of LST1 in AML pathogenesis is crucial for its clinical translation.
A highly-sensitive portable electrochemical sensor based on MWCNTs functionalized Au@Cu-MOF for environmental hormone bisphenol A
Authors: Hu Wentao , Hu Sicheng , Liu Yuhang , Wang Qizheng , Qi Siyao , Xia Yitian , Guo Siqin , Wen Yangping , Tan Guixia
Published: June 2024

Bisphenol A (BPA) is an environmental hormone that is widely utilized in daily life like food containers and hygiene items, which may enter human body through food or direct contact, causing human health and safety. Thus, developing a portable electrochemical sensor for the sensitive detection of BPA in water samples is very important and interesting. We here created a gold nanoparticle (AuNP) functionalized copper metal organic framework (Au@Cu-MOF) doped with multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) nanocomposite (Au@Cu-MOF/MWCNTs) to develop a portable electrochemical sensor for the sensitive detection of BPA in water samples. This sensing electrode coupled superior large surface area and high conductivity of MWCNTs, the unique catalytic characteristics of AuNP with controlled size and the regular octahedral geometry framework of Cu-MOF. The electrochemical performance of Au@Cu-MOF/MWCNTs-based screen-printed carbon electrode was characterized and studied using electrochemical techniques, which demonstrated higher reproducibility, satisfactory stability and excellent anti-interference capability. The developed portable sensor displayed good linear range 0.1–20.0 µM, satisfactory recoveries (94.04% − 102.7%) and relative standard deviation within 2.13% − 5.65%. The proposed method will be very promising for highly-sensitive portable electrochemical detection of water samples anytime and anywhere.
Delivery of Moringa oleifera Extract via PLA-PEG-FA/Chitosan-PLA NPs into Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Noruzpour Mehran , Zakaria Rasool Asghari , Zare Nasser , Bourang Shima , Ebrahimi Hossein Ali , Granados-Principal Sergio
Published: June 2024

Nanotechnology offers a promising solution for overcoming chemotherapy challenges in cancer treatment by enabling targeted drug delivery. Moringa oleifera Lam. containing significant medicinal compounds, is known for its anticancer and antioxidant characteristics. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of polymeric PLA-PEG-FA/Chitosan-PLA nanoparticles on targeted delivery of this plant’s extract and their effects on the growth and viability of cancer cell lines. Aqueous extracts were obtained from plant and callus tissues of M. oleifera. A solvent diffusion technique was employed to prepare PLA-PEG-FA/PLA-Chitosan nanoparticles. The copolymers were encapsulated with moringa aqueous extract, its callus extract, and pure quercetin. The physicochemical characteristics of nanoparticles were evaluated. Finally, drug encapsulation efficiency, drug release, in vitro cytotoxicity, and cell apoptosis analysis were conducted to study the drug delivery efficiency to MCF-7 and BT-549 breast cancer cell lines. PLA-PEG-FA/PLA-Chitosan nanoparticles synthesized exhibit a spherical shape with an average size of 230 nm and a zeta potential of -6.4 mV. The spectrophotometric assessment revealed that drug release was more pronounced at acidic pH. The water-soluble tetrazolium salt (WST-1) assay demonstrated the biocompatibility of the drug nanocarriers and their low toxicity. Furthermore, the highest percentage of pre- and post-apoptotic cells was detected in the BT-549 cell line treated with PLA-PEG-FA/Chitosan-PLA/Quercetin nanoparticles (31.2 and 7.15%, respectively). it was concluded that PLA-Chitosan and PLA-PEG-FA/Chitosan-PLA copolymers nanoparticles exhibit a high capability for the targeted delivery of Quercetin, the anticancer compounds present in the Moringa water extract (from plant and callus tissue) towards cancer cells.
Detection of Selection Signatures in some of the Water Buffaloes across the World
Authors: Ahmadieh Hamidreza , Ghaffari Mokhtar , Mokhber Mahdi , Williams John L
Published: June 2024

In order to identify the selection signatures of the water buffalos across the world, the genomic information of 165 buffalos which belonged to 15 genetic groups of buffaloes was used. The genomic information was obtained from Dryad (doi:10.5061/dryad.h0cc7). The quality control and data filtration were performed using PLINK1.9 software. The genetic clustering and the population structure was examined using the GenABEL and Admixture1.23 software's, respectively. The results of principal component analysis showed that the examined populations could be classified into 4 separate categories. The results of population structure analysis confirmed the results of principal components analysis. The signatures of selection were searched with the help of iHS statistics using the ReHH software. Moreover, the unbiased FST (θ) estimator was calculated using the Plink1.9 software. The 25 and 24 genomic regions, which passed the unbiased FST and iHS statistics thresholds, were identified as selection cues, respectively. Selected regions were aligned on the bovine genome and 411 genes related to selected regions were identified. Of all the identified genes, 53 genes related to olfactory receptors (OR), 51 genes somehow involved in cell membrane structure and animal immunity against pathogens including initiate and regulate the immune response. The identified QTLs related to detected regions, were associated with milk production, milk somatic cells, fertility, ion disease, calving and growth. There is an acceptable consistent between the milk and fat production genes and the related identified QTLs.