bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Deep learning radiomics analysis of CT imaging for preoperative Lauren classification in gastric cancer
Authors: Cheng Ming , Guo Yimin , Zhao Huiping , Zhang Anqi , Liang Pan , Gao Jianbo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Preoperative prediction of the Lauren classification in gastric cancer (GC) has important clinical significance for improving the prognostic system and guiding personalized treatment. This study investigated the usefulness of deep learning radiomics analysis (DLRA) for preoperatively differentiating Lauren classification in patients with GC, using computed tomography (CT) images.
Methods
A total of 329 patients pathologically diagnosed with GC were recruited from August 2012 and December 2020. Patients (n = 262) recruited from August 2012 to July 2019 were randomly allocated into training cohort (n = 184) and internal validation cohort (n = 78), and patients recruited from August 2019 to December 2020 were included in external validation cohort (n = 67). Information on clinical characteristics were collected. Radiomics features were extracted from CT images at arterial phase (AP) and venous phase (VP). A radiomics nomogram incorporating the radiomics signature and clinical information was built for distinguishing Lauren classification, and its discrimination, calibration, and clinical usefulness were evaluated. Moreover, we also constructed a clinical model using the clinical factors only for baseline comparison.
Results
The nomogram incorporating the two radiomics signatures and clinical characteristics exhibited good discrimination of Lauren classification on all cohorts [overall C-indexes 0.771 (95% CI: 0.709–0.833) in the training cohort, 0.757 (95% CI: 0.698–0.807) in the internal validation cohort, 0.725 (95% CI: 0.655–0.793) in the external validation cohort]. Compared with the conventional clinical model, the deep learning hybrid radiomics nomogram (DHRN) exhibits enhanced predictive ability. Further, the calibration curve and decision curve substantiated the excellent fitness and clinical applicability of the model.
Conclusions
DLRA exhibited good performance in distinguishing Lauren classification in GC. In personalized treatment of GC, this preoperative nomogram could provide baseline information for optimizing the quality of clinical decision-making and therapeutic strategies.
A hole in the bucket? Exploring England’s retention rates of recently qualified GPs
Authors: Palmer William L , Rolewicz Lucina , Tzortziou-Brown Victoria , Russo Giuliano 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
As the senior medics within primary care services, general practitioners (GPs) have a pivotal role within the National Health Service (NHS). Despite several commitments made by government to increase the number of GPs in England, the level has consistently fallen. Much attention has been paid to recruitment of trainee GPs and overall retention, whereas this study sought to examine the specific transition from ending training to joining the NHS.
Methods
The study used aggregated, published administrative data to examine rates at which 14,302 doctors leaving their third year of specialty training (GP ST3s) became fully qualified NHS GPs between 2018 and 2023. We separately analysed average levels of part-time working of those joining the NHS from 21,293 fully qualified joiners in England between 2017 and 2023. We calculated joiner and participation rates and used generalised linear mixed-effects models to explore possible demographic, period and cohort effects.
Results
Of those doctors leaving their third year of training since 2018, around a third (34.3%) had taken up a fully qualified GP role in NHS general practice six months after finishing training, rising to 47.5% within one year, and 62.2% within two years. Average estimated participation rates of joiners seemed to remain consistent at about 65-69% of a full-time contract between 2017 and 2023.
Joiner rates were lower for doctors with a primary medical qualification from outside the UK and, over a two-year timeframe, both UK and non-UK trained male GP ST3s. Our statistical modelling suggests that there is a significant ‘period effect’ in connection to the recent Covid-19 pandemic, with apparent differences in the likelihood of GP ST3s joining the NHS in a fully-qualified role at certain points in time, and an effect among some cohorts, with doctors who left specialty training in specific periods having significantly different joiner rates.
Conclusion
The GP pipeline is expanding, but we find no evidence that retention of newly trained GPs is improving. We discuss possible factors for such attrition, from barriers to hiring new doctors, to their diminishing interest in joining the NHS. More work is needed to further explore the changing career behaviours of subsequent cohorts and demographics of doctors completing GP training.
Measurement of cross-sectional wind speed and fuzzy representation of wind volume and pressure in tunnels based on LDA
Authors: Jia Jinzhang , Xing Yinghuan 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Shaft wind flow is mostly turbulent, with random pulsation characteristics, the fluid mass point in time and space for the violent random movement, to accurately describe each instantaneous, each space point on the flow of physical quantities is difficult. Under the influence of turbulent pulsation, the nodal pressure energy will rise and fall randomly, and the random fluctuation of mine ventilation resistance test results is inevitable. In this paper, we design a ventilation channel model without external perturbation, use laser Doppler velocimeter (LDA) and digital micropressure meter to measure the wind flow velocity and relative static pressure in the channel model, obtain the time series of wind speed and pressure, introduce the method of fuzzy number generated by fuzzy structural elements to represent the mine ventilation parameters wind speed and pressure, and compute the mine ventilation resistance based on the proposed method of fuzzy number representation. The experiments show that the wind flow is characterized by turbulent random pulsation, and the time series of wind speed is characterized by random pulsation around a certain average value, obeying the "normal distribution", and the distribution curve of the average wind speed in the roadway cross section is irregularly wavy. The instantaneous flow field of turbulent pulsation is irregular, but has statistical average characteristics. The fuzzy structural element representation can describe the size of the statistical average of wind speed and wind pressure in the roadway, and can also describe the fluctuation change of wind speed and wind pressure, which is more accurate and scientific. Based on the fuzzy structural element representation of mine wind speed and pressure, the concept of "fuzzy wind network" is proposed.
A coupled hydro-mechanical field-enriched finite element method for simulating the hydraulic fracture process of rocks subjected to in-situ stresses
Authors: Han Linyuan , Zhou Xiaoping 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

A coupled hydro-mechanical field-enriched finite element method (HM-FE-FEM) is developed for simulating the hydraulic fracture process of rocks subjected to in-situ stresses. The staggered iterative scheme based on the Newton-Raphson iterative algorithm is utilized to address the coupled hydro-mechanical problems. The opening process of the hydraulic fracture and natural fracture subjected to in-situ stresses can be reproduced by the proposed method. The accuracy of the proposed method is verified through stress intensity factor, fracture opening and experiment results. For coalescence patterns between hydraulic and natural fractures, the influences of horizontal stress difference and intersection angle are analyzed and discussed. Additionally, for coalescence patterns between hydraulic fracture and natural karst caves, the influences of cave location, cave radius and horizontal stress difference are investigated and discussed. The numerical results illustrate the effectiveness of HM-FE-FEM in handling the complex coalescence behaviors in the hydraulic fracture process of underground rock reservoirs with different defects. This study has a certain guiding significance for optimizing the fracturing operation parameters.
Synthesis, spectroscopic, crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis, NBO and DFT calculations of (E)-N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-(5-nitro-2-(piperidin-1-yl)phenyl) methanamine
Authors: OZSANLI Hanifi , AYGUN Seda Nur , AGAR Erbil , GUMUS Sedat , CORUH Ufuk 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

In this investigation, the structure of the new Schiff base (E)-N-(4-methoxyphenyl)-1-(5-nitro-2-(piperidin-1-yl)phenyl)methanimine was studied using experimental methods such as X-ray single crystal analysis, UV-vis and FT-IR spectroscopy. NBO analysis, the FT-IR and UV-Vis calculations were theoretically carried out with the help of B3LYP/DFT. Additionally, the optical properties were investigated through DFT calculations, and the experimental UV-Vis spectrum were related to the HOMO-LUMO transtions. Apart from this, the Molecular Electrostatic Surface Potential and determination of thermodynamic properties for the title compound were done at the same level of theoretical approach. The structural state and crystal packing of the compound were also analyzed by three-dimensional Hirshfeld surfaces, and two-dimensional fingerprint maps.
Exploring Irisin Levels in Patients with Endometrial Atypical Hyperplasia and Carcinoma: A Comparative Analysis
Authors: BILDACI Tevfik Berk , ATA Can , ATLIHAN Ufuk , AVSAR Huseyin Aytug , ERKILINC Selcuk 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Endometrial atypical hyperplasia is recognized as the precursor to type I endometrial cancer. Endometrial cancer, strongly associated with disorders in glucose metabolism such as obesity and insulin resistance, is believed to be influenced by hormones secreted from adipose tissue known as adipokines.
Methods
In a prospective case-control study, 88 patients diagnosed with either endometrial atypical hyperplasia or endometrial cancer were enrolled. Their irisin levels in serum were compared to those of a control group.
Results
Irisin levels were found to be significantly higher in patients diagnosed with both endometrial atypical hyperplasia and endometrial cancer compared to the control group (p = .022).
Conclusion
We demonstrated that Irisin levels in patients with EAH or EC differ from those in a control group, suggesting that irisin levels are correlated with the risks of EH and EC. Larger studies are required to clarify the potential use of irisin in the diagnosis of EC.
Single-Cell Analysis of the Endometrial Characteristics of Meishan Pigs Across the Estrous Cycle
Authors: Jiang Nengjing , xiao Wei , Zhao Qingbo , Liu Chenxi , Ma Jinfen , Liu Qian , Cai Wenwu , Xiao Xuemei , Xu Binbin , Yang Cheng , Hou Liming , Li Pinghua , Huang Ruihua 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: The Meishan pig, native to China, is renowned for its superior reproductive capabilities, including a high ovulation rate, substantial uterine capacity, and an impressively high rate of embryo implantation. The endometrium plays a pivotal role in facilitating embryo implantation and sustaining pregnancy. It is regulated by ovarian hormones and uterine prostaglandins and undergoes a complex series of coordinated processes across the estrous cycle, including proliferation, differentiation, shedding, and regeneration. A detailed examination of the intricate sow endometrial gene expression patterns during this cycle can yield valuable insights into creating ideal conditions for successful embryo implantation and early embryonic development. To gain a comprehensive understanding of the Meishan pig endometrial biological functions across the estrous cycle, we specifically used uterine tissues in the proliferative and secretory phases for single-cell transcriptomic sequencing.
Results: The comprehensive transcriptional profile of uterine cells was elucidated throughout the estrous cycle in Meishan pigs. We identified 7 distinct cell types within the primary cell categories, with 4 subpopulations specifically discerned among the endometrial epithelial cells. Considerable variability was observed in the types and quantities of epithelial cell subpopulations spanning the proliferative and secretory phases of the estrous cycle. Significantly, SOX9-expressing epithelial cells were characterised as potential endometrial epithelial stem cells in Meishan pigs. NURP1 and HES1were identified as potential marker genes for these stem cells. Pseudotime analysis indicated that these SOX9-expressing epithelial cells can differentiate into glandular epithelial (GE) or luminal epithelial (LE) cells. We also observed that SOX9-expressing epithelial cells may differentiate into ciliated epithelial (CE) cells. There was a marked increase in the number of GE and CE cells during the secretory phase compared to the proliferative phase. GE cells are vital for processes such as glycolysis, amino acid biosynthesis, and N-glycan biosynthesis, all of which are crucial for supplying essential nutrients required for embryo implantation and early stages of embryonic development.
Conclusions: We reveal the integrated transcriptional profile of uterine cells in sexually mature Meishan pigs and delineate the gene expression patterns within the uterine horns throughout the estrous cycle. These findings provide potential new diagnostic indicators for determining the estrous cycle in sows.
Assessing Genetic Diversity in Squash Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) Through Computational Analysis of Plastid Genes.
Authors: Edem Uduak Linus , Osuagwu Aniefiok Ndubuisi , Edu Ndem Enyegor , Emeagi Lasbrey Ikenna , Udensi ogbuagbu Ugorji 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Understanding the genetic diversity of economic crops, including wild relatives of genetic resources is fundamental for the continued improvement of varieties and breeds needed to cope with changes in climatic conditions. Obtaining high plant yield is not always achievable in agricultural activity as it is determined by various factors, including cultivar quality, nutrient and water supplies, degree of infection by pathogens, natural calamities and soil conditions, which affect plant growth and development. The present study was carried out using computational analysis to assess the genetic diversity in the plastid gene of 20 accessions of squash pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata). Guanine-cytosine (GC) content, phylogenetic relationship, secondary and tertiary protein structure and domain architecture were assessed. The accessions of the Squash pumpkin were retrieved from the National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) database. The phylogenetic tree showed a total of 12 clades which had 2 main clades with 4 100% bootstrap in accessions XM_023105445.1, XM_023105444.1, XM_023075850.1 and XM_023075859.1. The GC content was highest in accession XM_021009681.1 and lowest in accession XM_023076698.1. The domain architecture prediction showed the highest number of domains in accession XM_02100968.1 and a single domain in accessions XM_02105444.1, XM_0230758951.1 and XM_023067309.1, suggesting that these sequences may have more specialized functions. The secondary and tertiary protein structure showed variations among the accessions, indicating the possibility of structural differences which could have functional implications in the protein stability or interactions with other molecules.
The Japanese tits evaluates the threat level based on the posture of a predator
Authors: Mingju E , Jin Jiangping , Luo Yu , Li KaiYan , Liu Duo 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Previous studies showed that the threat level of a predator poses can vary with physical features. In this study, we want to test whether wing posture of a predator can serve as a clue for threat assessment of birds. We observed behavioral response of Japanese tits Parus minor to taxider-mic dummy Eurasian sparrowhawks Accipiter nisus with spread wings and closed wings respectively. The results showed that the response scores to sparrowhawks with spread wings was higher than sparrowhawks with closed wings. We suggested that the Japanese tit can assess predation risk asso-ciated with changes in wing posture of predators.
physics-guided deep learning-based constitutive modeling for the gravelly soil-structure interface
Authors: SUN Wei , CHEN Yiwei , DU Qiuhao , HUANG Zhiyuan , REHMAN Zia ur , HUANG Linchong 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

This study presents a novel deep learning-based constitutive model for the gravelly soil-structure interface by employing a physics-guided Bidirectional Short-term and Long-term (BiLSTM) neural network. Employing separate modeling frameworks for shear and dilatancy, the approach integrates physics-guided neural networks and parameters to accurately capture the physical mechanisms underlying the mechanical response of the interface. Notably, the BiLSTM neural network exhibits precision in capturing shear response characteristics, including shear stress (τ) and τ-shear displacement (u) curves. Its adeptness in encapsulating interface mechanisms, such as loading scenarios, peak τ-values, and elastoplastic shear responses, makes it comparable to complex elastoplastic models. To represent the physical mechanism of dilatancy response, a physics-guided decomposed model is developed, separating the total dilatancy (v) into irreversible (vir) and reversible (vre) components. Comparisons with conventional holistic dilatancy models demonstrate the superior ability of the physics-guided decomposed framework to simulate v and its components, i.e., vir and vre, and their relationships with u. The study recommends utilizing the physics-guided decomposed modeling framework for dilatancy alongside the shear modeling framework for constitutive modeling of the gravelly soil-structure interface. The proposed modeling framework simulated both monotonic and cyclic responses under various normal stresses (σz), demonstrating its capacity to comprehensively capture the interface behavior.
Sub-millimeter fiberscopic robot with integrated maneuvering, imaging, and biomedical operation abilities
Authors: Shen Yajing , ZHANG Tieshan , Li Gen , Ren Hao , YANG Liu , Yang Xiong , TAN Rong , Tang Yifeng , Guo Dong , Zhao Haoxiang , Shang Wanfeng 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Small-scale continuum robots hold promise for interventional diagnosis and treatment, yet existing models struggle to achieve small size, precise steering, and visualized functional treatment simultaneously, termed an “impossible trinity”. This study introduces an optical fiber-based continuum robot integrated imaging, high-precision motion, and multifunctional operation abilities at submillimeter-scale. With a slim profile of 0.95 mm achieved by microscale 3D printing and magnetic spray, this continuum robot delivers competitive imaging performance and extends obstacle detection distance up to ~9.4 mm, a tenfold improvement from the theoretical limits. Besides, the robot showcases remarkable motion precision (less than 30 μm) and substantially widens the imaging region by ~25 times the inherent view. Through ex vivo trials, we validate the robot’s practicality in navigating constrained channels, such as the lung end bronchus, and executing multifunctional operations including sampling, drug delivery, and laser ablation. The proposed submillimeter continuum robot marks a significant advancement in developing biomedical robots, unlocking numerous potential applications in biomedical engineering.
Nanobody-based chimeric antigen receptor (NbCAR) T cells for in-vivo cancer immunotherapy: A systematic review
Authors: Ebrahimi Fereshteh , Jabbari Marjan , Mohammadi Vahid , Karami Parsa , Esmaeilzadeh Kimia , Elahi Reza , Esmaeilzadeh Abdolreza 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background: Conventional chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) construct is produced using the ScFv of a target specific antibody and has encountered significant challenges in treating cancer, e.g., adverse effects, T cell exhaustion, safety concerns, and sub optimal efficacy in solid tumors. An alternative approach could be to use the outer portion of a nano antibody, named the VHH, for CAR production. The CAR construct produced with this method is named the "nanobody CAR." Nanobody CAR T cells are less immunogenic, more efficient, and easier to manufacture, and thus might be a reliable alternative approach to overcome the barriers associated with conventional CAR T therapy.
Materials and methods: Following a comprehensive search on PubMed, Scopus, Web of Sciences, and Google Scholar, available preclinical animal model studies which focused on the safety and efficacy of nanobody CAR T therapy in cancer were included.
Results: 338 studies were identified (up to September 15th, 2023), of which 17 studies used nanobody CAR T cells against tumor cells in animal models of different malignancies, including acute leukemia (seven studies), lymphoma (foure studies), hepatocellular carcinoma (three studies), multiple myeloma (two studies), melanoma (one study), colon adenocarcinoma (one studies), TNBC (one study), lung tumor (one study), ovarian adenocarcinoma (one study), multiple myeloma (two studies), and pancreatic cancer (one study). The most common CAR structure was the second generation and, in some cases, the third generation. CD28, 4 1BB, and ICOS were used as co stimulatory domains in the structure. Compared to the control groups, nanobody CAR T cells had a better performance in reducing tumor volume and improving survival. The included studies incorporated significant heterogeneity regarding their reported outcomes and study design, making it impossible to conduct a meta analysis. The Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation (SYRCLE) tool was used to assess the risk of bias, which showed potential bias in the included studies.
Conclusion: According to small size, ideal stability, high affinity, and manufacturing practicality, nanobody CAR T cells serve as a promising strategy to improve in vivo mice survival and reduce tumor size. To obtain more reliable results, future studies should focus on diminishing the heterogeneity of study design and bias.
Protocol registration: PROSPERO; registration number CRD42023425817, registered June 13th, 2023
Follicular Variant of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Presenting as a Colloid Nodular Goiter: A Case Report with Histopathological Evaluation
Authors: Younis Danny , Alkhani Kinaz , Kabalan Younes 
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Background
Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) is the most common type of thyroid cancer, and the follicular variant (FVPTC) in particular, presents unique diagnostic challenges. This case report details the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of a 31-year-old female patient initially diagnosed with a colloid nodular goiter but was later found to have FVPTC.
Case Presentation:
A 31-year-old female presented with a painless mass on the right side of her neck. Initial ultrasound and fine-needle aspiration (FNA) suggested a benign colloid nodule. Surgical excision of the lobe containing the mass and subsequent histopathological examination later confirmed FVPTC. The patient had to undergo a total thyroidectomy followed by radioactive iodine therapy and has been monitored for recurrence.
Conclusion
This case underscores the limitations of ultrasound and FNA in diagnosing thyroid nodules and the importance of histopathological examination for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.