bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Numerical modeling and experimental validation of fluid flow in micro- and meso-fluidic siphons
Authors: Akhras Nour , Singh Gurjas , Gill Kirandeep K. , Bola Shaan , Al-Hakeem Kareem , Reis Nuno M. 
Published: August 2024

Siphons have been used for thousands of years to transfer fluids without the use of pumps or power and are present in our daily lives. Paradoxically, it is only in recent decades that the operation of siphons has been fully clarified, which is now understood to be exclusively linked to gravity and molecular cohesion. Siphons are uniquely able to offer automatic, intermittent flow, yet present the main drawback of requiring a source of energy to induce initial flow. Our research team has recently disclosed a microfluidic siphon able to self-prime and deliver a sequence of bioanalytical reagents, previously demonstrated for high-performance, multi-reagents diagnostic testing. Here we show for the first time 2D and 3D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling and the experimental characterization of fluid flow in a range of miniaturized hydrophilic siphons of varying hydraulic liquid height-to-length ratios, ΔH/LT = 0–0.9, using fluids of varying viscosities. CFD simulations using velocity- and pressure-driven inlet boundary conditions were generally in good agreement with experimental fluid flow rates and pressure-balance predictions for plastic ∼0.2 mm and glass ∼0.6 mm internal diameter microfluidic siphons. CFD predictions of fluid flow in “meso-scale” siphons with 1 and 2 mm internal diameters also fully matched normalized experimental data, suggesting that miniaturized siphons are scalable. Their discharge rate and pressure drop are readily predicted and fine-tunable through the physical properties of the fluid and some design parameters of the siphon. The wide range of experimental and numerical parameters studied here provide an important framework for the design and application of gravity-driven micro- and meso-fluidic siphons in many applications, including but not limited to life sciences, clinical diagnostics, and process intensification.
Mo3P/Mo heterojunction for efficient conversion of lithium polysulfides in high-performance lithium-sulfur batteries
Authors: Sun Zhongpeng , Wang Yuanhao , Xu Jie , Wang Xia 
Published: August 2024

Realizing efficient immobilization of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) as well as reversible catalytic conversion between LiPSs and the insoluble Li2S is vital to restrain the shuttle effect, which requires highly reactive catalysts for high-performance Li-S batteries. Here, three-dimensional ordered porous Mo-based metal phosphides (3DOP Mo3P/Mo) with heterogeneous structures were fabricated and utilized as separator-modified coatings for Li-S batteries to catalyze the conversion of LiPSs. The adsorption, catalytic and electrochemical performance of the corresponding cells were compared among 3DOP Mo3P/Mo and 3DOP Mo, by kinetic and electrochemical performance measurements. It was found that the cell with 3DOP Mo3P/Mo modified separator deliver better electrochemical performance, with a high specific capacity of 469.66 mAh g−1 after 500 cycles at a high current density of 1°C. This work provides an idea and a guideline for the design of the separator modification for high-performance Li-S batteries.
The safety and efficacy of third- and fourth-generation cryoballoons for atrial fibrillation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Man-Li , Zhang Chao , Peng Jian-Yong , Xing Shu-Qiao , Guo Jian , Wei Chen-Long , Zhang Neng-Fang , Ma En , Chen Wen-Sheng 
Published: August 2024

ObjectivesAn increasing number of studies have shown that third (CB3)- and fourth-generation cryoballoons (CB4) have been used to treat various types of atrial fibrillation (AF), but previous research regarding the safety and efficacy of CB3 or CB4 ablation remains controversial. Therefore, a meta-analysis was performed to further evaluate the safety and efficacy of pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) using the CB3 and CB4 in the treatment of AF.MethodsWe searched PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang, China Science and Technology Journal Database, and Clinicaltrials.gov up to December 2023 for qualified trials and data extraction according to inclusion and exclusion criteria. All analyses were carried out using Review Manager 5.3 software.ResultsThe meta-analysis included 13 observational studies consisting of 3,281 subjects and did not include a randomized controlled trial. Overall analyses indicated that the CB3 significantly reduced total procedure time [weighted mean difference (WMD) = −8.69 min, 95% confidence interval (CI) = −15.45 to −1.94 min, I2 = 93%], increased the PVI recording [relative risk (RR) = 1.24, 95% CI = 1.03–1.49, I2 = 90%], and increased the mean nadir temperature of overall PVs (WMD = 2.80°C, 95% CI = 1.08–4.51°C, I2 = 89%) compared with the CB2. Moreover, the CB4 significantly reduced the total procedure time (WMD = −14.50 min, 95% CI = −20.89 to −8.11 min, I2 = 95%), reduced the fluoroscopy time (WMD = −2.37 min, 95% CI = −4.28 to −0.46 min, I2 = 95%), increased the PVI recording (RR = 1.40, 95% CI = 1.15–1.71, I2 = 90%) compared with the CB2. Time-to-isolation, the success rate of PVI, AF recurrence, and complications in the CB3 and CB4 were not significantly different compared with the CB2.ConclusionThese findings demonstrated that the CB3 and CB4 tended to be more effective than the CB2 in the treatment of AF, with shorter procedure times, more PVI recording, and similar safety endpoints.
Application of telemedicine technology for cardiovascular diseases management during the COVID-19 pandemic: a scoping review
Authors: Asadi Hassan , Toni Esmaeel , Ayatollahi Haleh 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundRecently, the use of telemedicine technology has increased due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Cardiovascular diseases management is one of the areas that has benefited from using this technology. This study aimed to identify the applications of telemedicine for cardiovascular diseases management during the Covid-19 pandemic.MethodsThis scoping study was conducted in 2023. Various databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, Ovid, CINAHL, ProQuest, and IEEE Xplore along with Google Scholar were searched and all related quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-method studies published in English between 2020 and 2022 were included. Finally, the required data were extracted, and the findings were reported narratively.ResultsA total of 17 articles were included in this study. The results showed that teleconsultation via telephone and videoconferencing were the most common used technologies. Telemedicine helped to improve clinical impacts such as patient health status and quality of care, and reduced hospitalizations and re-admission rates compared to in-person visits. The non-clinical impact included reducing waiting time, in-person visits, and healthcare costs during the Covid-19 pandemic.ConclusionThe Covid-19 pandemic has led to an increased use of telemedicine technology, especially for patients with cardiovascular diseases. As teleconsultation and telemonitoring are useful for cardiovascular diseases management and regular examinations, future research should investigate how these technologies can be improved and used for a wider population.
Potential biomarkers and immune characteristics for polycythemia vera-related atherosclerosis using bulk RNA and single-cell RNA datasets: a combined comprehensive bioinformatics and machine learning analysis
Authors: Wang Ziqing , Zou Jixuan 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundPolycythemia vera (PV) is a myeloproliferative disease characterized by significantly higher hemoglobin levels and positivity for JAK2 mutation. Thrombosis is the main risk event of this disease. Atherosclerosis (AS) can markedly increase the risk of arterial thrombosis in patients with PV. The objectives of our study were to identify potential biomarkers for PV-related AS and to explore the molecular biological association between PV and AS.MethodsWe extracted microarray datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) dataset for PV and AS. Common differentially expressed genes (CGs) were identified by differential expression analysis. Functional enrichment and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks were constructed from the CG by random forest models using LASSO regression to identify pathogenic genes and their underlying processes in PV-related AS. The expression of potential biomarkers was validated using an external dataset. A diagnostic nomogram was constructed based on potential biomarkers to predict PV-related AS, and its diagnostic performance was assessed using ROC, calibration, and decision curve analyses. Subsequently, we used single-cell gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) to analyze the immune signaling pathways associated with potential biomarkers. We also performed immune infiltration analysis of AS with “CIBERSORT” and calculated Pearson's correlation coefficients for potential biomarkers and infiltrating immune cells. Finally, we observed the expression of potential biomarkers in immune cells based on the single-cell RNA dataset.ResultsFifty-two CGs were identified based on the intersection between up-regulated and down-regulated genes in PV and AS. Most biological processes associated with CGs were cytokines and factors associated with chemotaxis of immune cells. The PPI analysis identified ten hub genes, and of these, CCR1 and MMP9 were selected as potential biomarkers with which to construct a diagnostic model using machine learning methods and external dataset validation. These biomarkers could regulate Toll-like signaling, NOD-like signaling, and chemokine signaling pathways associated with AS. Finally, we determined that these potential biomarkers had a strong correlation with macrophage M0 infiltration. Further, the potential biomarkers were highly expressed in macrophages from patients with AS.ConclusionWe identified two CGs (CCR1 and MMP9) as potential biomarkers for PV-related AS and established a diagnostic model based on them. These results may provide insight for future experimental studies for the diagnosis and treatment of PV-related AS.
Causal validation of the relationship between 35 blood and urine biomarkers and hyperthyroidism: a bidirectional Mendelian randomization study and meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Wanxian , Wu Jiao , Chen Daolei , Zhang Rui , Yang Yue 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundHyperthyroidism is an endocrine disorder with a relatively low global prevalence but significantly higher incidence among females compared to males. The onset age primarily ranges from 30 to 50, although it is not limited to this age group. Challenges in the treatment of hyperthyroidism include individualized treatment plan formulation, management of side effects, and prediction of disease progression, necessitating comprehensive consideration to achieve more effective therapy and management. Mendelian randomization studies can reveal more precise therapeutic targets between blood and urine biomarkers and hyperthyroidism, providing more decadent treatment options for the condition.MethodsThe study will build upon the omics Mendelian randomization (MR) framework by conducting MR analysis using 35 blood and urine biomarkers separately for two distinct databases of hyperthyroidism. Subsequently, the results will undergo meta-analysis and multiple corrections to ensure accuracy and reliability. Finally, positive findings will undergo reverse MR validation to verify causal relationships with hyperthyroidism.ResultsIn the British database, the MR analysis of Total bilirubin levels about hyperthyroidism yielded an odds ratio (OR) of 1.097 (95% CI: 0.951-1.265, P = 0.205). Conversely, in the Thyroid Omics Association database, the MR analysis revealed an OR of 1.283 (95% CI: 1.122-1.467, P = 0.0002) for the same relationship. Meta-analysis of the MR analysis results from both databases, following multiple corrections, resulted in an OR of 1.192 (95% CI: 1.081-1.314, P = 0.015). Additionally, the direction of beta values in the MR analysis results from both databases was consistent.ConclusionThe urine biomarker total bilirubin levels may contribute to an increased risk of hyperthyroidism and accelerate its progression, thus representing a risk factor for the condition.
Distribution characteristics of soil crusts under two kinds of aerial seeding plants in the northeastern margin of Tengger Desert
Authors: Zhang Ran , Liang Yumei , Gao Yong , Wang Yanyi 
Published: August 2024

In order to explore the effects of two plants on the spatial distribution and nutrient distribution of crusts in different directions and distances after 30 years of aerial seeding, as well as the relationship between crust thickness and nutrient content, this paper takes the aerial seeding afforestation area in the northeastern margin of Tengger Desert as the research area, and the crusts under the plants of Hedysarum scoparium and Calligonum mongolicum as the research objects. The distribution of crust thickness and nutrients was analyzed, and the relationship between them was constructed. The thickness of the crust of H. scoparium and C. mongolicum was the largest in the southeast direction and the smallest in the northwest direction. With increasing distance from the plant, it shows a significant decreasing trend. The crust thickness of H. scoparium was higher than that of C. mongolicum. The nutrient indexes in the southeast direction of the crust of H. scoparium and C. mongolicum were significantly higher than those in the northwest direction; With the increase of the distance from the root of the plant, the nutrient content showed a significant decreasing trend. The contents of organic matter and available nitrogen in the crust of C. mongolicum were higher than those of H. scoparium, and the contents of available potassium and available phosphorus were lower than those of H. scoparium. The trend of nutrient enrichment rate of the crusts of the two plants was consistent with the trend of nutrient distribution. There was a significant positive correlation between the crust thickness and nutrients in the four directions under C. mongolicum. There was a significant positive correlation between the crust thickness and nutrients in the southwest direction under H. scoparium. The changes of available nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium and organic matter content in the crust under H. scoparium can explain 52.5% of the change of its thickness. The changes of available nitrogen, available phosphorus, available potassium and organic matter content in the crust under C. mongolicum can explain 78.5% of the change of its thickness. After 30 years of aerial seeding in Tengger Desert, the thickness and nutrients of the crust in the southeast direction of H. scoparium and C. mongolicum were significantly higher than those in the northwest direction and showed a decreasing trend with the increase of distance from the root of the plant. There was a positive correlation between crust nutrient and thickness.
Advancing sustainable agriculture: the role of integrated soil-crop management in maize production
Authors: Wang Zhan , Zhao Xiaoxiao , Sun Yongfeng , Liu Wei , Zhao Guoqiang , Dang Zhaohui 
Published: August 2024

ObjectiveThis study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Integrated Soil-Crop System Management (ISSM) and provide technical support for sustainable high yield and efficiency in regional agriculture.MethodsThe study compared the effects of no fertilization (Control), conventional farmer practices (FP), high-yield management (HY), and ISSM on maize yield and plant nutrient uptake. Measurements included grain yield, plant biomass, plant nutrient absorption, and soil nutrient content across different management strategies.ResultsOver the 12-year experimental period, a significant decline in grain yield was observed under the Control treatment, with a slight decrease in the FP treatment. In contrast, consistent yield increases were noted for the HY and ISSM treatments. The ISSM approach significantly enhanced the average yield and plant uptake of P and K by 26%, 24%, and 32%, respectively, approaching 98%, 91%, and 85% of the levels achieved in the HY treatment. Furthermore, the average use efficiency of P and K fertilizers in the ISSM treatment exceeded those in the FP treatment by 18.7% and 1.2%, respectively, and those in the HY treatment by 17.4% and 24.8%, respectively. The adoption of ISSM led to a significant increase in total and available P and K content within the 0–20 cm and 20–40 cm soil layers and enhanced the available P and K content across all aggregate size fractions within the 0–20 cm soil layer.ConclusionISSM is capable of achieving long-term high and stable yields for spring maize, enhancing the uptake and utilization of P and K in plants, and bolstering the soil’s capacity to supply these nutrients, thereby fostering the sustainable development of the entire soil-crop system.
Fahr’s syndrome as the initial imaging characteristics of MELAS syndrome with a possible seizure activity and cardiac arrest: a case report
Authors: Zheng Yan , Wu Haohao , Zhang Meng , Huang Baogang , Yang Junsu , Liu Chuan , Wang Hanmin , Du Kang 
Published: August 2024

This study reported a case of MELAS syndrome presenting as the initial imaging characteristics of Fahr’s syndrome with “near” sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) and lateralized periodic discharges (LPD). The patient, a young boy, experienced loss of consciousness 2 days prior, which was followed by two limb and facial convulsions. He was later found in cardiac arrest during hospitalization, but regained consciousness gradually after receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation and tracheal intubation. The patient exhibited short stature, intellectual disability, poor sports abilities, and academic performance since childhood, but had no family history. Emergency head computed tomography (CT) revealed high density calcification in bilateral caudate nucleus, lentiform nucleus, thalamus, and dentate nucleus with evidence of an acute process. The patient was transferred to the neurology department where he continued to recover consciousness, though he experienced dysarthria, left limb hemiplegia, and hemiparesthesia. Changes in head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were noted at admission, 1 month later, and 6 months later. LPD were observed in his video electroencephalogram. The CT urography indicated a narrow left ureteropelvic junction with left hydronephrosis, which was suggestive of ureteropelvic junction obstruction. Ultimately, a diagnosis of near-SUDEP was suspected in this patient, indicating a rare case of MELAS syndrome with near-SUDEP and LPD. The gene tests results revealed the presence of the mitochondrial DNA A3243G mutation, leading to the final diagnosis of MELAS syndrome. This case expands the clinical disease spectrum of the MELAS syndrome.
Spatial variation of skilled birth attendance and associated factors among reproductive age women in Ethiopia, 2019; a spatial and multilevel analysis
Authors: Aragaw Fantu Mamo , Atlie Gela , Tesfaye Amensisa Hailu , Belay Daniel Gashaneh 
Published: August 2024

BackgroundThe majority of maternal deaths were associated with a lack of access to skilled birth attendance. Because childbirth accounts for most maternal deaths, skilled birth attendance is crucial for reducing maternal mortality. The use of skilled birth attendance in Ethiopia is low, and it is crucial to identify factors that determine the use of skilled birth attendance. Hence, this study aimed to assess the spatial distribution, wealth-related inequality, and determinants for skilled birth attendance in Ethiopia.MethodsSecondary data analysis was done with a total weighted sample of 5,251 reproductive-aged women using the 2019 mini EDHS. The concentration index and graph were used to assess wealth-related inequalities. Spatial analysis was done to identify the spatial distribution and multilevel logistic regression analysis was used to identify predictors of skilled birth attendance in Ethiopia. Analysis was done using STATA version 14, ArcGIS, and SaTscan software.ResultsThe prevalence of skilled birth attendance was 50.04% (95% CI: 48.69%, 51.40%) in Ethiopia. Old age, being married, being educated, having television and radio, having ANC visits, being multiparous, having large household sizes, having a rich wealth index, living in rural residence, and living in a high level of community poverty and women's education were significant predictors of skilled birth attendance. Skilled birth attendance was disproportionately concentrated in rich households [C = 0.482; 95% CI: 0.436, 0.528]. High prevalence of unskilled birth attendance was found in Somalia, SNNP, Afar, and southern parts of the Amhara regions. Primary clusters of unskilled birth attendance Somalia and some parts of Oromia region of Ethiopia.ConclusionHalf of the women in Ethiopia did not utilize skilled birth attendants with significant spatial clustering. Age, marital status, educational status, ANC Visit, having television and radio, parity, household size, wealth index, residence, community level poverty, and community level of women's education were significant predictors of skilled birth attendance. Skilled birth attendance was unevenly concentrated in rich households. The regions of Somalia, SNNP, Afar, and southern Amhara were identified as having a high prevalence of using unskilled birth attendance. Public health interventions should target those women at high risk of using unskilled birth attendants.
Rollercoasters and research: applying data-enabled design to a semi-public context
Authors: Raviselvam Sujithra , Lovei Peter , Noortman Renee , Olsson Thomas , Väänänen Kaisa , Funk Mathias 
Published: August 2024

IntroductionData-enabled design (DED) is a design approach where research data is integrated with design praxis in an iterative and hands-on fashion, and it has been successfully applied to design for people in the healthcare domain. However, how to utilise DED as a more broadly applicable approach that facilitates design for larger populations in semi-public spaces remains an open question. Understanding the advantages and challenges of applying DED in various contexts is crucial to guide design researchers further and prevent methodological mismatch.MethodsIn this article, we report on applying DED in an open, semi-public context with a large population of visitors. Here, DED was applied in projects with student design researchers who had limited control over the data gathered from people in the context.ResultsWe share the results of a two-week design workshop that involved sixteen student design researchers and was organised in collaboration with Särkänniemi, one of Finland’s largest theme parks. Using design proposals and reflections from five teams, we investigate the use of DED in this context, reporting on perceived challenges, barriers, successes and future directions for taking the DED approach into similar (semi-)public contexts.DiscussionsWe conclude with reflections from the workshop organisers’ point of view and share the feedback from our industry collaborator, highlighting challenges and opportunities in translating the DED approach to a new domain.