bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metataxonomic Analysis of Bacterial Diversity in Pigeon Pea after Soaking in Water
Authors: Sine Yuni , Widianto Donny , Purwestri Yekti Asih , Lee Byong H. , Widodo Widodo
Published: October 2023

: With the increase in demand for non-dairy starter cultures and probiotic bacteria as carriers, the use of legumes (also called pulses) as an alternative has gained momentum. In this study, we investigated the diversity of bacterial communities in samples of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L. Millsp.) soaked in water for 12 h and 24 h. We soaked 500 g of pigeon pea in sterile distilled water at room temperature (± 25 °C) for 12 h and 24 h; 10 mL of the soaking water was then collected to measure the bacterial diversity using a metataxonomic analysis. The V1–V9 regions on the 16S ribosomal RNA gene were amplified using 27F and 1492R primers under specific polymerase chain reaction conditions for the bacterial identification. Genomic DNA (130 ng) was sequenced on a R9.4 flow cell by Oxford Nanopore Technologies using a GridION sequencer. Library preparations were initiated using a Native Barcoding Kit 24 V14 (SQK-NBD114.24). Primary data were acquired using MinKNOW version 22.05.7. A total of 13 bacterial families and 89 genera were identified in the pigeon pea sample soaked for 12 h; 26 families and 90 genera were identified in the pigeon pea sample soaked for 24 h. Among the bacterial families identified, the five predominant families in both samples were Enterobacteriaceae, Erwiniaceae, Yersiniaceae, Pectobacteriaceae, and Lactobacillaceae. According to the relative abundance of the identified bacterial genera, the following nine genera were predominant in both samples: Enterobacter, Klebsiella, Citrobacter, Pantoea, Kosakonia, Pseudoenterobacter, Pluralibacter, Leclercia, and Kluyvera. At a genus level, a slight increase in the abundance of Klebsiella, Kosakonia, and Pluralibacter and a slight decrease in the abundance of Citrobacter were observed after prolonged incubation from 12 h to 24 h. The values of five diversity indices revealed that the sample soaked in water for 24 h had a richer bacterial abundance and diversity than the 12 h sample. Shannon and Simpson values revealed a higher bacterial diversity in the sample collected at 24 h than the sample collected at 12 h. Species observations and abundance-based coverage estimator (ACE) values demonstrated that the sample collected at 24 h harbored a higher bacterial richness than the sample collected at 12 h. These findings indicated that the bacterial diversity in the pigeon pea samples increased with the soaking time. The bacterial communities during the soaking of the pigeon pea samples were dominated by the Enterobacteriaceae family and Enterobacter genus. The presence of bacterial genera such as Lacticaseibacillus, Lentilactobacillus, and Secundilactobacillus was notable because of their importance as starter cultures for fermented plant-based milk products, including pigeon pea beverages for lactose-intolerant individuals or individuals with malnutrition.
Polyarteritis Nodosa Reviewed in 2023: Old Disease, New Etiologies
Authors: Wolff Louis , Horisberger Alice , Moi Laura , Karampetsou Maria P. , Comte Denis
Published: October 2023

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN), also known as panarteritis nodosa, represents a form of necrotizing vasculitis that predominantly affects medium-sized vessels, although it is not restricted to them and can also involve smaller vessels. The clinical presentation is heterogeneous and characterized by a significant number of patients exhibiting general symptoms including asthenia, fever, and unintended weight loss. Although PAN can involve virtually any organ, it preferentially affects the skin, nervous system, and the gastrointestinal tract. Orchitis is a rare but specific manifestation of PAN. The absence of granulomas, glomerulonephritis and ANCA serves to distinguish PAN from other type of vasculitis. Major complications consist of hemorrhagic and thrombotic events occurring in mesenteric, cardiac, cerebral, and renal systems. Historically, PAN was frequently linked to hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, but this association has dramatically changed in recent years due to declining HBV prevalence. Current epidemiological research often identifies connection between PAN and genetic syndromes as well as neoplasia. This article provides a comprehensive review of PAN, specifically focusing on the progression of its clinical manifestations over time.
Alloy Quasicrystals: Perspectives and Some Open Questions at Forty Years
Authors: Maciá Enrique
Published: October 2023

Four decades have elapsed since the first quasiperiodic crystal was discovered in the Al-Mn alloy system, and many progresses have been made during this time interval in the science of quasicrystals (QCs). Notwithstanding this, a significant number of open questions still remain regarding both fundamental and technological aspects. For instance: What are QCs good for? How can we improve the current provisional QC definition? What is the role of the underlying quasiperiodic order and the characteristic inflation symmetry of these compounds in the emergence of their unusual physicochemical properties? or, What is the nature of chemical bonding in QCs formed in such different sorts of materials as alloys, oxides, or organic polymers? In this essay I will discuss these, and other closely related, issues from an interdisciplinary perspective and will comment on appealing prospectives in the field for the years to come.
Antimicrobial Activity and Phytochemical Characterization of Baccharis concava Pers., a Native Plant of the Central Chilean Coast
Authors: Rodriguez-Diaz Maite , Perez Acevedo Fabian , Manosalva Paloma M , Cerda Juan I , Martinez-Contreras Consuelo , Mora Aracely Y. , Villagra Nicolas A , Bucarey Sergio A. , Barriga Andrés , Escobar Jorge , Martínez José L. , Hidalgo Alejandro A.
Published: October 2023

Few Sclerophyllous plants from the central coast of Chile have been systematically studied. This work describes the phytochemical composition and antimicrobial properties of Baccharis concava Pers. (sin. B. macraei), a shrub found in the first line and nearby the pacific coast between latitudes 29-38⁰S. B. concava has been traditionally used by indigenous inhabitants of today central Chile for their anthelmintic properties, wound healing properties and as a diuretic. Hydro-alcoholic extracts of B. concava were prepared from leaves and small branches. The qualitative phytochemical characterization indicated presence of alkaloids, steroids, terpenoids, flavonoids, phenolic and tannins compounds. The antimicrobial activity of this extract was assessed in a panel of microorganisms including Gram-positive, Gram-negative bacteria and pathogenic yeasts. The extract displayed important antimicrobial effects against Gram positive, Candida albicans, and Cryptococcus neoformans, but not against Gram negative, for which an intact Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is apparently the determinant of resistant to B. concava extracts. The hydroalcoholic extract was then fractionated through a sephadex LH-20/methanol-ethyl acetate column. Followed, the fractions were pooled according to a similar composition that was visualized by TLC/UV analysis. Fractions obtained by this criterion were assessed for their antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus. The fraction presenting the most antimicrobial activity was HPLC-ESI-MS/MS analyzed obtaining a composition rich in structures derived from caffeoylquinic acid, dicaffeoylquinic acid and quercetin, among others. In conclusion, the extracts of B. concava show a strong antimicrobial activity probably due to their composition rich in metabolites derived from caffeoylquinic acid and quercetin, that in turn could be responsible for helping with wound healing, as reported from its ancient cultural use. In addition, the development of antimicrobial therapies based in the molecules found in B. concava could help to combat infection caused by pathogenic yeasts and Gram-positive bacteria, without affecting the Gram-negative microbiota.
Overview of Availability, Cost, and Affordability of Antibiotics for Adults in Jordan: an AWaRe Classification Perspective
Authors: Darwish Elhajji Feras , Abuhasheesh Sahar , Al Rusasi Ahmed , Aldeyab Mamoon A.
Published: October 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global public health threat, with rates directly linked with consumption. The World Health Organization (WHO) AWaRе-classification aims to guide antibiotic use, which is influenced by drug availability, affordability, and economic policies. In Jordan, a high proportion of consumed antibiotics belong to the 'Watch' category. Data from the WHO-AWaRе classification, the Essential Medicines List, and the Jordan Food and Drug Administration were analyzed. Antibiotics for adults were classified and their cost per Defined Daily Dose (DDD) was determined, then affordability was assessed. In 2023, 43 injectable and 43 oral antibiotics for adults were registered in Jordan. 'Watch' antibiotics were the most common. 'Access' antibiotics had the lowest cost/DDD. 'Rеsеrvе' antibiotics were the most expensive with few generics. Injectable antibiotics had a negative correlation between cost and the number of alternatives. Affordability was higher for oral antibiotics compared to injectable ones. 'Rеsеrvе' antibiotics were generally unaffordable. This study highlights the need to promote 'Access' antibiotics over other categories by encouraging registration of missing ‘Access’ antibiotics and adjusting 'Watch' and 'Rеsеrvе' antibiotic prices. Competition among generics can lead to lower prices, increasing affordability and accessibility. We emphasize the importance of the AWaRе-classification in guiding antibiotic use in Jordan.
Forests Structure and Carbon Reserve in Natural and Replanted Mangrove Forests in Different Years in the Limpopo Estuary, Gaza Province, Mozambique
Authors: Inacio Da Costa Fatima Jose , Macamo Celia Da Conceicao
Published: October 2023

The Limpopo estuary mangrove forest covers about 928 ha, however 382 ha remain intact and 546 ha were degraded after the 2000 floods. Mangrove replanting campaigns have been carried out at the site. This article aims to evaluate the structure and carbon pool of aboveground and belowground living biomass and soil carbon in natural and replanted mangrove forests (2016, 2014 and 2010). The methodology consisted of selecting 40 strata where structural data were collected. Living biomass above and below ground and soil carbon was obtained based on the methodology described by Kauffman and Donato (2012). The results showed that A. marina was the most observed species in all study areas. The carbon reserve of living biomass above and below ground in the natural forest was 67.9±100.9 MgCha -1 and 65.0±77.1MgC ha -1 , respectively; and in the planted forests (2016, 2014, 2010) it was 1.1±0.5MgCha-1 and 2.1±1.0MgCha-1, 1.8±1.0MgCha-1 and 3.6±2.0MgCha-1, 3.7±2.0MgCha-1 and 5.3±2.5MgCha-1 . Soil carbon reserve was 229.4±119.4 MgCha-1 in natural forest and 230.3±134.8 MgCha-1 , 234.8±132.7MgC ha-1, 229.4±119.4 MgCha-1 in planted forests (2016, 2014, 2010). The total carbon reserve in the natural forest was 362.3 MgCha-1 and in the planted forestsn(2016, 2014, 2010) it was 233.5 MgCha-1 , 240.2 MgCha-1, 246.4 MgCha-1. Natural and restored forests had similar anoumts of soil carbon, which reinforces the idea that soil is a stabel carbon pool. Morever, restored forests failed to store the same amount of live biomass (an carbon), which supports the idea that it is better to prevent habitat degradation than to restore it.
Amyloid β-Oligomers Inhibit the Nuclear Ca2+ Signals and the Neuroprotective Gene Expression Induced by Hippocampal Neuronal Activity
Authors: Lobos Pedro , Vega-Vásquez Ignacio , Bruna Barbara , Gleitze Silvia , Toledo Jorge , Härtel Steffen , Hidalgo Cecilia , Paula-Lima Andrea
Published: October 2023

Hippocampal neuronal activity generates dendritic and somatic Ca2+ signals, which depending on stimulus intensity, rapidly propagate to the nucleus and induce the expression of transcription factors and genes with crucial roles in cognitive functions. Soluble Amyloid-beta Oligomers (AβOs), the main synaptotoxins engaged in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, generate aberrant Ca2+ signals in primary hippocampal neurons, increase their oxidative tone and disrupt structural plasticity. Here, we explored the effects of sub-lethal AβOs concentrations on activity-generated nuclear Ca2+ signals and on the Ca2+-dependent expression of neuroprotective genes. To induce neuronal activity, neuron-enriched primary hippocampal cultures were treated with the GABAA receptor blocker gabazine (GBZ), and nuclear Ca2+ signals were measured in AβOs-treated or control neurons transfected with a genetically encoded nuclear Ca2+ sensor. Incubation (6 h) with AβOs significantly reduced the nuclear Ca2+ signals and the enhanced phosphorylation of cyclic AMP response element binding protein (CREB) induced by GBZ. Likewise, incubation (6 h) with AβOs significantly reduced the GBZ-induced increases in the mRNA levels of Neuronal Per Arnt Sim domain protein 4 (Npas4), Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor (Bdnf), Ryanodine Receptor type-2 (RyR2), and the antioxidant enzyme NADPH-Quinone-Oxidoreductase (Nqo1). Based on these findings we propose that AβOs, by inhibiting the generation of activity induced nuclear Ca2+ signals, disrupt key neuroprotective gene expression pathways required for hippocampal-dependent learning and memory processes.
Genetic Identification and Technological Potential of Indigenous Lactic Acid Bacteria Isolated from Alheira, A Traditional Portuguese Sausage
Authors: Fernandes Nathália , Faria Ana Sofia , Carvalho Laís , Choupina Altino , Rodrigues Carina , Gonzales-Barron Ursula , Cadavez Vasco
Published: October 2023

Alheira is a naturally fermented meat sausage traditionally made in the Portuguese region of Trás-os-Montes. Lactic Acid Bacteria (LAB) have been found to be the dominant microorganisms in alheira. This study aimed: 1) to characterize technological features and in vitro antimicrobial activity of LAB isolates; and 2) to reveal associations between such phenotypic characteristics and the isolates genotypically identified to species level through amplification and sequencing of the 16S ribosomal gene. Sixty-two LAB isolates were identified and Enterococcus faecium was the most prevalent (32.3%), followed by Leuconostoc mesenteroides (19.4%) and Latilactobacillus sakei (17.7%), aligning with previous research on traditional Portuguese fermented meat sausages. The phenotypic analysis of LAB isolates indicated diverse acidification capacities, proteolytic activities, and inhibitory effects against foodborne pathogens. Comprising the technological attributes, L. paracasei and L. mesenteroides had higher proteolytic activity (3.46 and 3.43 mm), whereas E. faecium and L. paracasei stood out for their acidifying capacity, with mean pH after 6 h of 5.78 and 6.03, respectively. Overall, lactobacilli presented higher inhibition diameter against the pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella Typhimurium. Although the mechanisms for inhibition of pathogen growth needs to be further elucidated, these findings enhance our understanding of LAB diversity and functionality in alheira sausages, contributing to product safety and quality assessment.
Anticancer Effect of EHF through the Induction of Senescence and the Inhibition of EMT in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Lim Soyoung , Lim Jihyun , Lee Aram , Yang Young , Kim Keun-Il , Lim Jong-Seok
Published: October 2023

(1) Background: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of ETS homologous factor (EHF) in malignant breast cancer cells. (2) Methods: Overexpression and knockdown of the EHF gene in human and mouse breast cancer cells were performed, and the TCGA dataset and Q-omics were analyzed. (3) Results: We found that the tumor suppressor NDRG2 is correlated with EHF gene expression in triple-negative breast cancer cells, that EHF overexpression results in reduced cell proliferation and that apoptosis is promoted by chemotherapeutic reagent treatment of EHF-overexpressing cells. By EHF overexpression, senescence-associated β-galactosidase activity and p21WAF1/CIP1 expression were increased, suggesting that EHF may induce cellular senescence. In addition, overexpression of EHF reduced the migratory ability and inhibited epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Furthermore, EHF inhibited the phosphorylation of STAT3. Overexpression of EHF also reduced tumor size, and lung metastasis in vivo. At the tumor site, β-galactosidase activity was increased by EHF. Finally, Kaplan-Meier-plotter analysis showed that TNBC patients with high expression of EHF had a longer relapse-free survival rate. (4) Conclusions: Our findings demonstrated that EHF inhibits breast tumor progression by inducing senescence and regulating EMT in TNBC cells.
Çocuklarla Felsefe ve Demokrasi: Olanaklar ve İlişkiler
Authors: ÇEVİK Dinçer
Published: October 2023

Öz: Demokrasi biçimsel bir yönetim biçimi olmasının ötesinde aynı zamanda bir davranış ve yaşayış biçimidir. Bu anlamda demokrasi demokratik davranış ve yaşayış olarak deneyimlenilerek öğrenilebilen bir kavramdır. Demokrasinin deneyim temelinde öğrenilebildiği yöntemlerden bir tanesi çocuklarla felsefedir. Çocuklarla felsefe çocukların demokratik davranışları benimsemelerini ve demokratik toplumlarda aktif bir şekilde yer almalarını teşvik eden bir pedagojik yaklaşımı desteklemektedir. Çocuklarla felsefe ve demokrasinin yönteminde ve kavram setinde ortaklaştığı temel kesişim noktaları mevcuttur. Temelinde eleştirel düşünme, özgür düşünce, adalet, hoşgörü, katılımcılık ve sorumluluk gibi demokratik değerlerin olduğu çocuklarla felsefe bu bağlamda demokrasinin deneyimlendiği ve öğrenilebildiği bir ortam sunar. Çocuklarla felsefe demokratik değerlerin ve vatandaşlığın geliştirilmesi için gerekli olan nitelikleri belirginleştirmeyi ve geliştirmeye yardımcı olur. Çocuklarla felsefe demokratik değerlerin teşvik edilmesi ve sürekli olarak uygulanması ile demokratik vatandaşlık için gerekli olan becerilen kazandırılmasına ve kalıcı hale getirilmesine yardımcı olur. Bu bağlamda makalede, çocuklarla felsefenin demokrasi eğitimi için ve eğitimin demokratikleştirilmesi için iki yönlü bir model olarak yöntemi ve onun demokratik eğitimdeki rolü üzerinde durulmaktadır.
Práctica docente a muchas voces. La experiencia Colombia-México de aprendizajes compartidos
Authors: Sandoval Gutiérrez Fernando
Published: October 2023

Se presenta en el texto la experiencia compartida de docencia en el nivel de pregrado con estudiantes de educación de casas de estudio de nivel superior en México y en Colombia. Empleando como recurso institucional el programa de colaboración COIL, durante 2021 se realizaron actividades de diseño de práctica docente y realización de la misma, a través de plataformas digitales, congregando en este ejercicio a estudiantes de ambos países. La experiencia supuso una oportunidad estratégica para el encuentro entre estudiantes y profesores, y proveyó un marco de colaboración que se mantiene hasta la fecha. En otro sentido, supuso una experiencia de colaboración resiliente, situada en la complejidad de la contingencia sanitaria global por COVID-19, y una oportunidad para el desarrollo de actividades docentes internacionales exitosas.
El andar de los abuelos
Authors: Noh Huh Karla Gabriela
Published: October 2023

La península de Yucatán está conformada por Mérida, Campeche y Quintana Roo, cada uno de estos estados siguen preservando sus costumbres y tradiciones que ha transcendido de generación en generación; la lengua maya se sigue hablando en cada rincón de estos tres estados.
La última frontera de la colonización
Authors: Dzib Can Ubaldo
Published: October 2023

Desde tiempos coloniales, la selva tropical al sur de la Península y del hoy estado de Campeche había sido un territorio de frontera, no gobernado por el estado imperial hispánico; por tanto, zona de disputa territorial entre las metrópolis española e inglesa; área de intensos flujos de población, de refugio de indígenas mayas sustraídos al yugo europeo; escondite de piratas y contrabandistas europeos de mercancías prohibidas por el imperio español.
Ativismo, populismo e judicialização da política: a difícil tarefa de compreender o comportamento decisório judicial
Authors: Silva Marco Aurélio Souza da
Published: October 2023

O artigo tem por objetivo explorar algumas teorias do comportamento decisório judicial utilizadas nos campos das ciências jurídica, política, econômica e da neurociência, destacando a importância de compreender como realmente agem os juízes, desconstituindo a crença cega de que pelo cargo que ocupam sempre agirão no interesse público. Esses aportes teóricos ajudam a diferenciar a ocorrência de mera judicialização da judicialização da política, do ativismo e do populismo judicial, bem como a identificar a utilização da ponderação de valores considerada discricionariamente pelo julgador, de forma estratégica ou retórica, a fim de acobertar razões pessoais. A partir da análise interdisciplinar, conclui-se que compreender como as pessoas agem e reagem estrategicamente a alterações em seus ambientes e em suas estruturas de incentivos durante a tomada de decisãoé fundamental para complementar o direito enquanto regulação de comportamento, evitando ou minimizandodecisões ilegais, ativistas e populistas.
Los Gálvez: la trayectoria social de una familia de plateros en la Antequera del siglo XVIII
Authors: Hidalgo Fernández Francisco
Published: October 2023

El trabajo aborda el estudio de una familia de plateros ubicado en la Antequera del siglo XVIII, mediante la utilización de la documentación extraído en los protocolos notariales, analizando desde su establecimiento en la ciudad hasta sus últimas voluntades, pasando por las estrategias matrimoniales con otros linajes relevantes y la formación del patrimonio particular.
Effects of Pipe Rotation on the Performance of Fibrous Water-Based Polymeric Fluids in Horizontal Well Cleanout
Authors: Garcia Sergio , Mendez Michael , Ahmed Ramadan , Karami Hamidreza , Nasser Mustafa , Hussein Ibnelwaleed A.
Published: October 2023

The deposition of rock cuttings is a problem commonly faced during drilling, completion, and intervention operations. Using polymer-based fluids is a common technique to improve horizontal downhole cleaning. However, these fluids cannot always guarantee an efficient wellbore cleanout. One way to enhance cleanout efficiency is by rotating the drillpipe to mitigate the settling of solids and facilitate their removal. However, drillstring rotation often increases equivalent circulating density (ECD). Therefore, in this study, we explore how the impact of rotation on hole cleaning can be synergized by using fibrous water-based polymeric fluids to perform cleanout at reduced rotational speeds with limited effect on ECD.

The flow loop used for this study consists of a 48-ft long eccentric annular (5×2.375 in.) test section. Each experiment began by forming a stationary bed of natural sand (an average diameter of 1.2 mm) in the test section. High-viscosity and low-viscosity polymer-based suspensions with and without fibers were used. The drillpipe rotation speed was varied from 0 to 150 rev/min. In each experiment, the flow rate was increased from 35 to 195 gal/min stepwise. The bed perimeter was measured at equilibrium condition for every test flow rate until a complete bed cleanout was achieved. In addition, the friction pressure loss was measured. Rotational viscometers were also used to measure fluid rheology before and after each test.

Fiber particles improve the carrying capacity of the fluid by reducing solid settling and minimizing the redeposition of particles. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of fiber in synergizing pipe rotation effects on hole cleanout performance in horizontal wellbores. Fiber’s impact is more pronounced when used with low-viscosity fluid. The cleanout performance of the low-viscosity fluid is amplified significantly with rotation, almost entirely cleaning the bed at 75 gal/min and a rotational speed of 50 rev/min, compared with more than 195 gal/min without rotation. Even more improvement could be achieved by adding a small amount of fiber (0.04wt%). In addition, the fiber improved the cleanout performance of the high-viscosity fluid. The enhancement, however, was not as noticeable as with the low-viscosity fluid. In general, rotation combined with low-viscosity fibrous fluid exhibits the best cleaning performance. This is because rotating the pipe resuspends the settled solids, which are then easily carried by fibrous fluid that has high solids carrying capacity.
Advanced Automation Drives ESG and Optimization Strategies
Authors: Behera Prabhat , Verghese Rohan
Published: October 2023

Occidental's state-of-the-art oil production facilities involve goals to maximize production while minimizing the impact on our planet in terms of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG). At Occidental ("Oxy"), we are committed to "Zero In™", to be focused on achieving results in ways that are consistent with our core values at Oxy, to ‘Lead with Passion’, ‘Outperform Expectations’, ‘Deliver Results Responsibly’, ‘Unleash Opportunities’ and ‘Commit to Good’, while fulfilling the energy demand of our global society. We are currently implementing advanced techniques involving wellhead electrification and predictive control schemes to reduce emissions and maximize production.

The nature of the oil production profile is nonlinear, with complex interactions between the characteristics of the reservoir, the fluid dynamics inherent to the process equipment, various artificial lift methods, and the often-constrained midstream and pipeline takeaway capacities. The improved infrastructure and control system capabilities in recent times facilitate addressing the issues such as non-routine emissions, production downtimes, and overwhelming control rooms.

Several innovative concepts such as wellhead electrification, tankless facilities, and pipeline regional volume control (RVC) were engineered to manage the dynamics and correlation to proactively eliminate the vulnerabilities. The facilities’ engineering basis of design and the ongoing well-test data were used to define the priority of the tasks recommended by the optimization algorithms. International Society of Automation (ISA) 18.2 alarm management principles were incorporated to draw attention to the abnormal situations requiring intervention while minimizing operator distractions.

This paper will discuss the control system concepts, recent technology trends, and conclude with the business benefits in terms of safety, uptime, and ESG.
A Critical Review, Modeling, and Evaluation of Petrophysical Properties Variation in Deforming Naturally Fractured Subsurface Porous Formations
Authors: Civan Faruk
Published: October 2023

The petrophysical properties of deforming naturally fractured subsurface porous formations such as the porosity, permeability, relative permeability, capillary pressure, and Lamé's parameter can vary by the stress and thermal effects. The proper modeling and description of the variation of the petrophysical properties of deforming naturally fractured subsurface porous formations are examined and evaluated. The application of the proper theory and modeling approaches are presented and demonstrated by the analyses of the experimental data of the naturally fractured sandstone permeability dependence on temperature and effective stress. The dual-porosity nature of the naturally fractured porous formations is determined as the key factor in the proper description of the effect of stress and thermal deformation on the petrophysical properties. The threshold or critical stress and temperature conditions separating the fracture and matrix deformation modes, referred to as the stress and thermal shocks phenomena, are determined. The performances of the improved correlations are demonstrated by analyzing and correlating of the experimental data based on the modified power-law equation. The present approach applying the modified power-law equation is shown to generate high quality results.
Evaluation of statin indication and dose intensification among type 2 diabetic patients at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital
Authors: Yitbarek Pineal , Baye Assefa Mulu , Gedamu Melak , Makonnen Eyasu
Published: October 2023

Background
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) increases the incidence and mortality of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) by a 2 to 4-fold compared to people without DM. Although clinical practice guidelines recommend the use of statin in type 2 DM (T2DM) patients to reduce cardiovascular risks and all-cause mortality, statin intolerance and other factors may lead to treatment discontinuation, switching among statin agents, dose adjustments, or the need for augmentation of the statin regimen impacting therapeutic benefits and patient outcomes. This study aimed to assess the appropriateness of indication and dose intensification of statin therapy among T2DM patients at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital (TASH).
Methodology
: A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted among 405 T2DM patients from 01 April to 30 June 2020. A systematic random sampling technique was implemented to recruit study participants who had been on follow-up during the study period in TASH. Adjusted odds ratio (OR) was used to measure the association of dependent and independent variables at 95% confidence interval (CI) and P-values of < 0.05 were utilized to determine the statistical significance.
Results
Statins were initiated for 85.4% of patients. Majority (82.9%) of patients were indicated statin for primary prevention and the estimated 10-year ASCVD scores were ≥ 7.5% among 60.1% of patients. Among 346 patients on statin therapy, the indication was appropriate in 333 (96.2%) patients while 216 (62.4%) patients were appropriately intensified. Predictors for appropriateness of statin indication were ASCVD score ≥ 7.5% (AOR = 0.275; 95% CI: 0.102–0.738, p = 0.01), presence of dyslipidemia (AOR = 4.48; 95%CI: 1.85–10.84; p = 0.001), initiation of aspirin therapy (AOR = 3.7; 95%CI: 1.522–9.144; p = 0.004), and LDL-cholesterol level 70–189 mg/dL (AOR = 0.124; 95% CI:0.042–0.365; p = 0.001). Moreover, duration of illness (AOR = 3.22, 95% CI: 1.680-6.1351, P < 0.001) and history of vascular complications (AOR = 3.24, 95% CI: 1.085,9.708, P = 0.035) were associated with inappropriate dose intensification of statins.
Conclusion
The study found that indication of statins was generally in line with guidelines, but inappropriate statin dose intensification was linked to patients with longer duration of diabetes and vascular complications. Clinicians should consider dose titration of statins based on patient cardiovascular risk profile and routine laboratory results.
Post-Disaster Use Of Urban Parks In Settlements With High Earthquake Density: The Example Of Kültür Park
Authors: Başgün Ömer Faruk , Bulut Yahya
Published: October 2023

Disasters cause many deaths, leave millions of people homeless, and lead to the loss of billions of dollars in economies every year around the world. The places most affected by disasters are city centers. According to the United Nations World Urbanization Reports, 55.3% of the world's population lives in cities. Due to their growing populations, cities nowadays are places where significant human casualties can occur during disasters. After disasters, people mostly use urban parks and open green spaces as shelter areas. Elazig's Kültür Park is one instance of an urban park that saw heavy use following a disaster. This city park has an area of 180,000 square meters. Following the 6.8-magnitude Elazig earthquake on January 24, 2020, Kültür Park served as a temporary shelter and a disaster management center. Elazig is a city where disasters are experienced intensely. The analyses have also shown that the earthquake intensity in the city is very high. The earthquake intensity analysis used calculations based on Silverman's Basic Rule Bandwidth Estimation Formula. The plan, projects, features, post-earthquake usage, and problems experienced in the use of Kültür Park, which was used as a shelter after the earthquake, were examined. The functionality of the use of the park after the earthquake and the secondary disasters that occurred in the park were investigated. The findings show that Kültür Park and other green spaces are not entirely appropriate for use after a disaster. Suggestions were developed for Kültür Park and other open green areas.
HIV-1 mRNA Knockdown with CRISPR/Cas9 Enhances Neurocognitive Function
Authors: McLaurin Kristen A , Li Hailong , Khalili Kamel , Mactutus Charles F. , Booze Rosemarie M.
Published: October 2023

Mixed glia are infiltrated with HIV-1 virus early in the course of infection leading to the development of a persistent viral reservoir in the central nervous system. Modification of the HIV-1 genome using gene editing techniques, including CRISPR/Cas9, has shown great promise towards eliminating HIV-1 viral reservoirs; whether these techniques are capable of removing HIV-1 viral proteins from mixed glia, however, has not been systematically evaluated. Herein, the efficacy of adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9)-CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing for eliminating HIV-1 mRNA from cortical mixed glia was evaluated in vitro and in vivo. In vitro, a within-subjects experimental design was utilized to treat mixed glia isolated from neonatal HIV-1 transgenic (Tg) rats with varying doses (0, 0.9, 1.8, 2.7, 3.6, 4.5, or 5.4 μL) of CRISPR/Cas9 for 72 hours. Dose-dependent decreases in the number of HIV-1 mRNA, quantified using an innovative in situ hybridization technique, were observed in a subset (i.e., n=5 out of 8) of primary mixed glia. In vivo, HIV-1 Tg rats were retro-orbitally inoculated with CRISPR/Cas9 for two weeks, whereby treatment resulted in profound excision (i.e., approximately 53.2%) of HIV-1 mRNA from the mPFC. Given incomplete excision of the HIV-1 viral genome, the clinical relevance of HIV-1 mRNA knockdown for eliminating neurocognitive impairments was evaluated via examination of temporal processing, a putative neurobehavioral mechanism underlying HIV-1 associated neurocognitive disorders (HAND). Indeed, treatment with CRISPR/Cas9 partially restored the developmental trajectory of temporal processing. Proof-of-concept studies, therefore, support the susceptibility of mixed glia to gene editing and the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 to serve as a novel therapeutic strategy for HAND, even in the absence of full viral eradication.
Fatigue strength and fatigue crack initiation mechanism in non-combustible Mg-4%Al-1%Ca-0.2%Mn alloys and its TIG and MIG weld joints
Authors: SHAO XUANYI , THAO Bui Phuong , NAKATA Taiki , ZHANG Nan , MIYASHITA Yukio , KAMADO Shigeharu
Published: October 2023

Fatigue mechanism of a Mg-4%Al-1%Ca (hereinafter referred to as AX41) non-combustible magnesium alloy and its TIG(Tungsten Inert Gas) and MIG(Metal Inert Gas) weld joint was investigated through the plane bending fatigue and crack propagation tests. Results of plane bending fatigue tests showed that fatigue strengths of TIG and MIG weld joints were lower than that of the base metal (BM), while a similar fatigue strength at 107 cycles was found in both TIG and MIG weld joints. However, a TIG weld joint showed the highest crack propagation resistance among tested samples in crack propagation tests. Scanning electron microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD) analysis were used to investigate the relationship between microstructural factors and crack initiation mechanism of AX41 alloy and its weld joint. Cracks were found to initiate from grains in BM, while weld defects became a crack initiation site in a MIG weld joint. However, both grains and weld defects were observed as a crack initiation site in a TIG weld joint. Results of EBSD analysis indicated that fatigue crack initiation in TIG weld joint was favored in large grains with high Schmid factors. The critical value of initial crack length was discussed in correlation between the maximum grain size and the maximum weld defects/inclusions size on the fatigue crack initiation mechanisms. As a result, prediction method of the fatigue strength at 107 cycles was proposed based on the hardness and weld defects/inclusions size.
Posterior default mode network activity underlies distracted interoceptive attention and provides an objective basis for low mindfulness & depression
Authors: Mishra Jyoti , Ramanathan Dhakshin , Grennan Gillian , Nan Jason , jaiswal Satish , Purpura Suzanna , Manchanda James , Maric Vojislav , Balasubramani Pragathi
Published: October 2023

Interoceptive attention to internal sensory signals is fundamental to mindfulness. However, it is difficult to measure objectively, and the vast majority of investigations of the neural correlates of mindfulness-based attention rely on subjective and retrospective measures of distraction. In this study, we measured consistency of response times on a breath-monitoring task (instruction to respond every 2 breath cycles) to objectively measure interoceptive attention in individuals across the lifespan (15–91 years of age, n = 324). Consistently timed responses were indicative of on-task attention, whereas variable delayed responses indicated distraction or mind-wandering. Signifying the importance of interoceptive attention consistency, we observed that this measure was positively correlated across subjects with performance across several exteroceptive cognitive tasks. Electroencephalographic (EEG) source reconstruction demonstrated that distraction on the eyes-closed task was associated with elevated alpha band (8–12 Hz) brain activity particularly in posterior default mode network (pDMN) brain regions. The neural data revealed four important findings: 1) pDMN brain activity was inversely linked with functional connectivity to the fronto-parietal network (FPN), suggesting that pDMN-FPN interactions play a key role in the regulation of pDMN activity during interoceptive attention. 2) pDMN activity on distracted trials was inversely correlated with trait level mindfulness. 3) A key hub of the pDMN, the isthmus region of the posterior cingulate cortex (ICC), showed elevated activity on distracted trials in individuals with self-reported depressive symptoms. And 4) in an independent second experiment, pDMN activity was adaptively modulated by task difficulty that invoked different levels of distraction. These results identify an EEG-based neurophysiological marker (elevated pDMN alpha activity) underlying interoceptive distraction, which is correlated with subjective markers of mindfulness and depression and that can be adaptively modulated. Our findings, thus, provide a direct link between a neurophysiological substrate of interoceptive attention, and subjective ratings of mindfulness and depressed mood.
A robust innovative pipeline-based machine learning framework for predicting COVID-19 in Mexican Patients
Authors: Abnoosian karlo , Farnoosh Rahman
Published: October 2023

One of the infectious diseases that were first identified in late 2019 in Wuhan, China, is COVID-19, which has killed many people around the world. Understanding the available COVID-19 data sets can help healthcare professionals identify some cases at an early stage. This paper proposes an innovative pipeline-based framework to predict death or survival from the COVID-19 disease on the Covid-19MPD dataset. Preprocessing, in the proposed framework, is an important part of achieving a high-quality result. Various machine learning models with optimal hyper parameters are implemented in the proposed framework. Using the same experimental conditions and data set, multiple experiments were performed with different combinations of preprocessing and models to maximize the AUC for predicting COVID-19 disease. Because the dimensions of the data were relatively large, and however, must find features that have an impact on death or survival from COVID-19. Feature dimensions' reduction methods such as PCA, ICA, and feature selection methods such as maximum relevance minimum redundancy, and permutation feature importance were used. Finding the feathers that have a great impact on the death or survival of the patient can help experts in the treatment of this disease and be able to control and ultimately treat this disease more efficiently. After various experiments of the proposed framework with standardized data and AUC with four components with the k-nearest neighbor algorithm, compared to other experiments, it was able to attain the optimal result in terms of AUC (100%).Because of the optimal nature of this framework in predicting COVID-19, it can be used in the smart systems of medical centers.
Y-Linked Lysine(K) Demethylase 5D as a regulator of sex-specific bladder cancer metastasis and prognosis
Authors: Ran Yuefei , Liu Ji , Zhang Wentao , Zhang Jingcheng , Zhang Zhijin , Xu Tianyuan , Mao Shiyu , Hao Yajuan , Hu ShuaiShuai , Yan Yang , Yao Xudong
Published: October 2023

Background Current research in clinical oncology is focused on exploring gender-based variations in cancer risk and prognosis. Male bladder cancer incidence significantly surpasses that in females across the world. While several factors contribute to variations in cancer susceptibility between sex, a burgeoning body of research underscores the signififcance of distinct activity levels in Y-linked tumor suppressor genes in males and females. Here, we investigate the role of Y-linked lysine(K) demethylase 5D (KDM5D) in the prognosis and metastasis of bladder cancer. Methods By conducting Quantitative Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (qRT-PCR), Western Blot, immunohistochemistry, fluorescence, tumor microenvironment analysis, and bioinformatics pathway analysis on bladder cancer cell lines, bladder cancer tissues, adjacent normal epithelial tissues, combined with statistical analysis using SPSS, Results it was found that KDM5D is low expression in male bladder cancer. Moreover, this underexpression is associated with higher recurrence and metastasis rates. In silico analysis suggests that KDM5D may influence tumor metastasis or recurrence through inflammation response and EMT. Conclusion These findings not only provide evidence to support further precision medicine efforts but also offer new insights for bladder cancer recurrence or metastasis.
Context-specific synthetic T cell promoters from assembled transcriptional elements
Authors: Wei Jia , Mukherjee Rithun , Ishida Taylor , Rosser James , Saxby Chris , Chase John , Carlson Marc , Sather Cassie , Rahfeldt Wolfgang , Meechan Michael , Baldwin Michael , Flint Lindsay , Spurrell Cailyn , Gustafson Joshua , Johnson Adam , Appelbaum Jacob , Jensen Michael
Published: October 2023

Genetic engineering of human lymphocytes for therapeutic applications is constrained by a lack of transgene transcriptional control, resulting in a compromised therapeutic index. Incomplete understanding of transcriptional logic limits the rational design of contextually responsive genetic modules1. Here, we juxtaposed rationally curated transcriptional response element (TRE) oligonucleotides by random concatemerization to generate a library from which we selected context-specific inducible synthetic promoters (iSynPros). Through functional selection, we screened an iSynPro library for “IF-THEN” logic-gated transcriptional responses in human CD8+ T cells expressing a 4-1BB second generation chimeric antigen receptor (CAR). iSynPros exhibiting stringent off-states in quiescent T cells and CAR activation-dependent transcriptional responsiveness were cloned and subjected to TRE composition and pattern analysis, as well as performance in regulating candidate antitumor potency enhancement modules. These data reveal synthetic TRE grammar can mediate logic-gated transgene transcription in human T cells that, when applied to CAR T cell engineering, enhance potency and improve therapeutic indices.
Clinical nurses’ work-life balance prediction due to patient safety incidents using classification and regression tree analysis: A secondary data analysis
Authors: Kang Jiwon , Kwon Soon-Sun , Lee Youngjin
Published: October 2023

Background
Patient safety incidents lead to performance difficulties for nurses when providing nursing practice. This affects work-life balance and causes second and third-victimization. This study predicts factors affecting clinical nurses’ work-life balance due to patient safety incidents using classification and regression tree analysis techniques.
Methods
This study was a secondary analysis of data from a cohort research project, which used a descriptive survey for data collection. Participants comprised 372 nurses. Data were collected using SurveyMonkey, a mobile-based survey software solution, from January to September 2021. Data included the general characteristics of clinical nurses, second damage, second damage support, third damage, and work-life balance. The data were analyzed using Lasso. Variables with low explanatory power were excluded, thereafter, the variables selected by Lasso were analyzed with a classification and regression tree model to predict work-life balance.
Results
A regression tree was applied to predict work-life balance using seven variables—education level, marital status, position, physical distress, second-victim support, turnover intentions, and absenteeism (selected through Lasso analysis). After pruning, at tree size four, when turnover intentions were < 4.250, physical distress < 2.875, and second-victim support < 2.345, the predicted work-life balance was 3.972. However, when turnover intentions were < 4.250, physical distress < 2.875, and second-victim support ≥ 2.345, then the predicted work-life balance was 2.760.
Conclusions
This study’s results can be used as fundamental data for formulating workforce risk management strategies, such as managing each nurse’s occupational stress. Ultimately, they can help improve organizational culture to prevent the recurrence of additional patient safety incidents.
Association between subsequent autoimmune disease and prior enterovirus infection in children: A population-based study in Taiwan
Authors: Shen Yu-Chuan , Hsu Hui-Ching , Lin Tzu-Min , Chang Yu-Sheng , Chen Wei-Sheng , Kuo Tzu-Tung , Lin Wei-Jui , Chen Shu-Chuan , Chang Ching-Kuei , Lee Hsiang-Gyen , Chen Jin-Hua , Chang ChiChing
Published: October 2023

Purpose: Infection events can trigger autoimmune responses in several chronic inflammatory diseases; however, no study has focused on their effects in patients with enterovirus (EV) infection. We aimed to investigate the association between EV infection and the risk of autoimmune diseases.
Materials and Methods:
We used insurance claims data from Taiwan’s National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) to investigate autoimmune disease (AD) incidence with or without a diagnosis of EV infection from January 1, 2006, to December 31, 2015. Incidence rate ratios (IRR) and hazard ratios (HRs) of ADs for EV infection were estimated using Cox’s proportional hazard regression model.
Results:
Overall AD incidence was higher in the EV-infection cohort (37.68 per 100,000 person-years) than in the non-EV-infection cohort (25.78 per 100,000 person-years). The AD incidence rate ratio in the EV-infection cohort was 1.46 (95% CI: 1.34 to 1.60) with an adjusted HR of 1.57 (95% CI: 1.43 to 1.72) compared with the non-EV-infection cohort. The adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) of the EV group was higher for particular organ-specific ADs, such as Type 1 diabetes mellitus (aHR = 1.30, 95% CI: 1.0 to 1.62) and Henoch-Schönlein purpura (2.14, 1.84-2.49). Furthermore, the adjusted hazard ratio of the EV group was also higher for particular systemic ADs, such as juvenile ankylosing spondylitis (1.85, 1.33-2.59) and systemic vasculitis (1.25, 1.01-1.54).
Conclusion: The risk of autoimmune disease in the EV-infection cohort is higher than the non-EV-infection cohort.