bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kemiskinan, Kesenjangan Sosial dan Pembangunan Desa
Authors: Herdiana Dian
Published: September 2023

Kemiskinan dan kesenjangan sosial menjadi masalah dalam pembangunan desa, berbagai kebijakan telah dibuat dalam upaya penanggulangan kemiskinan, namun persoalan ini masih menjadi tantangan pembangunan yang perlu terus diupayakan solusinya. Didasarkan kepada uraian tersebut maka artikel ini mengkaji mengenai kemiskinan dan kesenjangan sosial yang dilihat dari faktor-faktor penyebab dan instrumen kebijakan penanggulangannya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu metode penelitian deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif. Hasil analisis menunjukan bahwa faktor kemiskinan dan kesenjangan sosial masyarakat desa terdiri dari dua faktor yaitu faktor internal masyarakat desa seperti rendahnya tingkat pendidikan dan faktor eksternal seperti eksklusivitas struktur sosial dan akses terhadap sumber perekonomian. Instrumen kebijakan pembangunan desa yang perlu dibuat sebagai upaya penanggulangannya yaitu instrumen kebijakan yang komprehensif mulai dari upaya pemberdayaan masyarakat, penciptaan ekonomi produktif, serta penanaman nilai inklusivitas dalam pembangunan desa
Power point tracker mounted solar powered DC induction cooker
Authors: Shams S M Nasif , Priti Fahmida Sultana , Saha Arghya , Haque M Asif
Published: September 2023

Induction method of cooking is extensively used for its high effectiveness and safe way of cooking. This paper provides presentation on design and implementation of a solar powered DC induction cooker.The energy from the sun is used as the power source of the cooker. When solar power is not available, the cooker can also be operated by battery. The design of the proposed induction cooker has been developed by modifying conventional AC induction cooker. The main purpose of this cooker is to serve the rural areas where electricity is not always available. Incremental conductance (IC) technique has been used as the procedure of the MPPT which confirms charging of battery by taking in maximum power from the PV panel and the proposed induction cooker will be operated by these batteries. Time taken for cooking different food items has been studied and it is observed that this induction cooker can serve the purpose of cooking for a small family satisfactorily.
Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 58(3), 135-142, 2023
Bee Venom Causes Oxidative Stress, Biochemical and Histopathological Changes in the Kidney of Mice
Authors: Dahdouh F , Belhamzaoui K , Aouadi L , Aldahmash W , Harrath AH , Plavan G , Smaali ME , Dejebar-Berrabah H
Published: September 2023

Accidents with venomous bees are a serious worldwide health concern. Since the kidney has been reported as the main venom-target organ, the present study was undertaken to investigate the in vivo nephrotoxic effect of Algerian bee venom (ABV) (Apis mellifera intermissa) collected in the middle east of Algeria. A preliminary study was performed on ABV to identify the ABV using SDS-PAGE analysis and to determine the in vivo intraperitoneal median lethal dose (LD50) using the Probit analysis test. In vivo nephrotoxic effect was assessed through the determination of physiological and kidney biochemical markers in mice intraperitoneally injected with ABV at doses of 0.76 (D1); 1.14 (D2) and 2.29 mg/kg body weight (bwt) (D3), corresponding respectively to LD50/15, LD50/10, and LD50/5 (i.p. LD50=11.48 mg/kg bwt) for seven consecutive days. Results revealed a marked decrease in body weight gain and food intake, and an increase in absolute and relative kidney weights in ABV D2 and D3 treated mice compared with controls. Furthermore, ABV D2 and D3 resulted in a significant increase in serum creatinine, urea, and uric acid. ABV-induced oxidative stress was evidenced by a significant increase in kidney MDA level, and a significant depletion in kidney GSH level, and catalase activity. Meanwhile, no marked changes in the above-mentioned parameters were noticed in ABV D1. Accordingly, the adverse nephrotoxic effect of ABV was proved by the dose-dependent kidney histological changes. In summary, the results of the present study evidence that ABV at doses of 1.14 (D2) and 2.28 mg/kg body weight (bwt) can cause marked changes in kidney biochemical and major antioxidant markers, and histological architecture.
The Role of TOEFL Preparation Courses in Improving Test Score
Authors: Rifiyanti Hafizah , Dewi Dyah Utami , Putra Febryano Manggala
Published: September 2023

The study analyses the implementation of TOEFL Preparation and provides conclusions and suggestions to improve participants' ability to face the TOEFL test. In the study, 40 participants participated in the implementation of TOEFL preparation courses which consisted of three parts, namely listening, structure, and reading. The analysis results showed that the average TOEFL score of the participants was 448, with the highest score reaching 540 and the lowest score of 376. Although the average score met the minimum requirements at IBIK 57 Campus, there were participants who did not reach the standard. Suggestions included individual coaching, increased listening practice, strengthened knowledge of grammar and structure, reading comprehension strategies, as well as encouragement for self-study and use of additional resources.
The Urgency of Preserving Regional Languages through Local Educational Curriculum
Authors: Pamungkas Susandi Decapriu Putra , Suputra Gede Ngurah Darma , Fadillah Dyah Ajeng Puspa , Rista Mirsya Lila Agua , Arisandi Sadira Ramadhani
Published: September 2023

The use of local languages in the era of globalization is currently experiencing a decline. Based on field data, the utilization of local languages through local content education is minimally implemented by educational institutions. This poses a problematic situation as the use of local languages through local content education may vanish and erode due to the advancement of a more globalized world. In the Curriculum 13 itself, the use of local languages in educational institutions is mandated to be included as part of the local content subjects. However, in the "merdeka" (freedom) curriculum, the use of local languages is not obligatory, meaning it becomes conditional. This research adopts a qualitative research method, where the focus is on gathering information. Additionally, this study also employed a literature review approach, using journals, academic articles, and other. The research findings indicate that indeed, the use of local languages, content subjects has become rare in some cases, no longer applied, primarily due to the curriculum regulations. Therefore, the author suggests the issuance of a new policy that involves a collective reevaluation of the curriculum to ensure the enduring preservation of local languages in education.
 
Keywords: Preservation local languages, local content, curriculum policy
ASSESSING THE PUBLIC AND EXPERTS’ PERCEPTION TOWARDS THE PROPOSED CONGESTION PRICING SCHEME IN JORDAN
Authors: Al-Mawajdeh Ghadeer , Jadaan Khair , Sweis Ghaleb
Published: September 2023

This study aims to investigate the attitudes of both the public and the experts towards the Congestion Pricing (CP) scheme by considering the case of Amman City in Jordan. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methodologies was adopted. A predesigned survey with 600 respondents was the primary source of data in addition to semi-structured comprehensive interviews conducted with knowledgeable individuals experienced in the related fields including wholesalers. The analysis of the collected data was performed using the Statistical Package for Social Science SPSS IBM software together with the SPSS AMOS (Analysis of Moments Structural Equation Modeling Software) and Excel spreadsheets programs to carry out CFA, RII, descriptive statistics, and socio-economic index. The results showed that more than half of the respondents (58%) have never heard of CP. 47% of those who are aware of CP were in favor of implementing it. Greater support was given to the CP implementation during the Peak hours (55%) compared to their support of all-hour implementation (26%). The RII results revealed that CP can reduce road congestion (RII=69.8%), helps protect the environment (RII=70%), and limit recreation and shopping preferences (RII=64.7%) and this aspect could be better publicized as an effective means of maintaining social distance and reducing the risk of infection during Covid-19 pandemic. Moreover, people with greater socio-economic educational class tended to perceive a higher personal change in travel habits when CP is implemented. People’s level of acceptance of the implementation of CP was found to be affected by several meaningful factors. The CFA revealed that a more significant factor was the "potential benefits and economic revenue of implementing CP". The main causes of traffic congestion in Amman, the capital of Jordan, were identified through interviews with experts from various concerned parties which included poor public transport system and parking management, increasing car ownership, and inadequate policies to control traffic congestion. The experts advised that the CP implementation should be linked with other related strategies and be evaluated periodically. They also suggested a minimum of 3.5 years’ time framework in case of introducing the CP scheme. This period is needed for issuing new CP legislation and developing an acceptable level of public awareness of the system. Furthermore, the implementation of CP might not always seriously damage the wholesaler's own business or economic competitiveness. Based on the results of the study, recommendations for developing and implementing an effective CP system in Amman were outlined.
INVESTIGATING THE ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE IMPACT OF MASS RAPID TRANSIT ON NEARBY COMMUNITIES AT BATU 11 CHERAS, MALAYSIA
Authors: Lim Ming Han , Lee Yee Ling
Published: September 2023

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) in Malaysia is designed to provide commuters with a comfortable journey that is highly functional and safe. Besides, it allows commuters to explore the city with ease and convenience. Due to the extension of the network throughout the years, the noise generated from MRT had increased and this environmental noise tends to annoy the adjacent community. This research aims to evaluate the environmental noise impact generated by MRT on the surrounding community at Batu 11 Cheras Station. A total of 4 monitoring points were selected for environmental noise impact assessment. After that, a sound level meter was set up at these monitoring points to measure the sound level and some parameters such as LAeq, Lmax, Lmin, L10, L50, and L90. For each monitoring point, the noise level was measured for 6 hours continuously from 7:00 am to 1:00 pm. Based on the results, the noise levels at critical monitoring points exceeded 2.71% of the permissible sound level in Batu 11 Cheras Station. While for the maximum sound level, all four-monitoring points A, B, C and D had exceeded 2.75%, 10.13%, 4.38%, and 7.13%, respectively. For community annoyance impact, little levels of environmental impact and subjectively perceived noticeable differences were found at all the monitoring points.
Poseditando la traducción de un testamento con DeepL (binomio alemán-español)
Authors: Filsinger-Senftleben Gustavo
Published: September 2023

La traducción ha sido el puente de comunicación entre los pueblos a lo largo de la historia. Esta actividad tan antigua ha vivido todo tipo de cambios, tanto en su ejercicio como en sus ejecutantes. Hoy en día somos testigos de la introducción de herramientas que automatizan su práctica. Como cualquier otra novedad tecnológica cuenta con sus seguidores y sus detractores. En lo que respecta a nuestro estudio, nos hemos centrado en analizar si es viable su integración como parte en el proceso traductológico de un texto jurídico, concretamente, un testamento.
Hearing loss in type 1 diabetes mellitus: a need to understand precise pathological mechanisms and develop novel therapeutic approaches
Authors: Mittal Rahul , Camick Nathanael , Lemos Joana R. N. , Lanzoni Giacomo , Fraker Christopher A. , Hirani Khemraj
Published: September 2023

This integrative review and perspective article synthesizes current knowledge about the co-morbidity of Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) and sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL), affecting an estimated 9.2 per 1,000 T1D patients annually. Combining data from clinical, preclinical, and mechanistic studies, the article elucidates the complex pathological mechanisms contributing to SNHL in T1D. It is established that T1D accelerates age-related SNHL and brings about detrimental changes in the auditory system, including damage to outer hair cells (OHCs), inner hair cells (IHCs), the stria vascularis (SV), and the spiral ligament (SL). Furthermore, T1D-associated peripheral neuropathy, microvascular damage, and chronic inflammation in the inner ear contribute to auditory deficits. Although some consistency exists between animal models and human conditions, notable discrepancies warrant the refinement of preclinical models to more accurately mirror human clinical scenarios. This perspective article highlights the need for targeted research to bridge existing knowledge gaps and accelerate the development of early-stage interventions for SNHL in T1D patients. Advancements in this field hold the promise of enhancing clinical prognosis and improving the quality of life of individuals having T1D.
Effect of carbon-fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone on stress distribution in a redesigned tumor-type knee prosthesis: a finite element analysis
Authors: Wu Han , Guo Yu , Guo Wei
Published: September 2023

Background: Surgery for bone tumors around the knee often involves extensive resection, making the subsequent prosthetic reconstruction challenging. While carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CF-PEEK) has been widely used in orthopedic implants, its application in tumor-type prosthesis is limited. This study aims to evaluate the feasibility of using 30wt% and 60wt% carbon fiber-reinforced polyetheretherketone (CF30-PEEK and CF60-PEEK) as materials for a redesigned tumor-type knee prosthesis through numerical analysis.

Methods: A knee joint model based on CT data was created, and the resection and prosthetic reconstruction were simulated. Three finite element models of the prostheses, representing the initial and updated designs with CoCrMo and CFR-PEEK components, were constructed. Loading conditions during standing and squatting were simulated with forces of 700 N and 2800 N, respectively. Finite element analysis was used to analyze the von Mises stress and stability of all components for each prosthesis type.

Results: After improvements in both material and design, the new Type 3 prosthesis showed significantly lower overall stress with stress being evenly distributed. Compared with the initial design, the maximum von Mises stress in Type 3 was reduced by 53.9% during standing and 74.2% during squatting. In the standing position, the maximum stress in the CF30-PEEK femoral component decreased by 57.3% compared with the initial design which was composed of CoCrMo, while the stress in the CF60-PEEK cardan shaft remained consistent. In the squatting position, the maximum stress in the femoral component decreased by 81.9%, and the stress in the cardan shaft decreased by 46.5%.

Conclusion: The incorporation of CF30-PEEK effectively transmits forces and reduces stress concentration on the femoral component, while CF60-PEEK in the redesigned cardan shaft significantly reduces stress while maintaining stiffness. The redesigned prosthesis effectively conducts loading force and demonstrates favorable biomechanical characteristics, indicating the promising potential of utilizing CF30-PEEK and CF60-PEEK materials for tumor-type knee prostheses. The findings of this study could provide novel insights for the design and development of tumor-type knee prostheses.
The role of SGLT2i in attenuating residual cardiovascular risk through blood pressure-lowering: mechanistic insights and perspectives
Authors: Barreto Joaquim , Campos-Staffico Alessandra M. , Nadruz Wilson , Quinaglia Thiago , Sposito Andrei C.
Published: September 2023

Sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2) have been increasingly pursued as a promising target for addressing residual cardiovascular risk. Prior trials demonstrated that SGLT2i not only promotes glucose-lowering, but also improves endothelial dysfunction, adiposity, fluid overload, and insulin sensitivity thus contributing to hemodynamic changes implicated in its cardiorenal benefits. The mechanisms in the effect of SGLT2i on blood pressure and their potential role in preventing cardiovascular events are hereby revised.
CD44s-activated tPA/LRP1-NFκB pathway drives lamellipodia outgrowth in luminal-type breast cancer cells
Authors: Qiu Yaqi , Wang Hui , Guo Qian , Liu Yiwen , He Yiqing , Zhang Guoliang , Yang Cuixia , Du Yan , Gao Feng
Published: September 2023

Some cancer cells migration and metastasis are characterized by the outgrowth of lamellipodia protrusions in which the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Evidence has confirmed that lamellipodia formation could be regulated by various adhesion molecules, such as CD44, and we previously reported that lamellipodia at the leading edge of luminal type breast cancer (BrCa) were enriched with high expression of CD44. In this study, we found that the overexpression of CD44s could promote lamellipodia formation in BrCa cells through inducing tissue type plasminogen activator (tPA) upregulation, which was achieved by PI3K/Akt signaling pathway activation. Moreover, we revealed that tPA could interact with LDL receptor related protein 1 (LRP1) to activate the downstream NFκB signaling pathway, which in turn facilitate lamellipodia formation. Notably, inhibition of the tPA/LRP1-NFkB signaling cascade could attenuate the CD44s-induced lamellipodia formation. Thus, our findings uncover a novel role of CD44s in driving lamellipodia outgrowth through tPA/LRP1-NFkB axis in luminal BrCa cells that may be helpful for seeking potential therapeutic targets.
Conservation biology and conservation paleobiology meet the Anthropocene together: history matters
Authors: Walker Sally E.
Published: September 2023

As a species, we have reached a tipping point for Earth derived from our unsustainable resource use. While conservation efforts occurred early in human civilization, it was not until 1980 that the full force of environmental destruction, including the Santa Barbara oil spill in the 1970s, culminated in the new discipline of conservation biology focused on the biosphere. Similarly, conservation paleobiology, named two decades later, brings the unique perspective of the fossil record to conservation efforts, uniting biosphere and geosphere scientists. To date, conservation history does not include paleontological or geological perspectives. Further, each discipline has a different benchmark—near time—for when Earth’s ecosystems were modified by humans. Accordingly, the history of conservation efforts leading up to conservation biology and conservation paleobiology was examined from a geological and ecological framework. To provide a benchmark for near time, the hominin record and their geo-environmental modifications were also examined and revealed that by the start of the Holocene, all continents except ice-covered Antarctica and Greenland had human-modified ecosystems. Therefore, near time is dispensable when the Holocene Epoch is universally understood and precisely defined as a time when H. sapiens dominated environments. Lastly, a conservation corps is urgently needed, following the long tradition of F.D. R.’s Civilian Conservation Corps of the 1930s and J.F. Kennedy’s Peace Corps of the 1960s, to promote a global network connecting all students and practitioners of conservation disciplines to focus on biotic resilience, recovery, and solutions for the world’s most pressing environmental problems.
Optimizing the utilization of biochar from waste: an energy–water–food nexus assessment approach considering water treatment and soil application scenarios
Authors: Obar Farah , Alherbawi Mohammad , Mckay Gordon , Al-Ansari Tareq
Published: September 2023

Introduction: As a result of the rapid increase in population and depletion of natural resources, particularly energy and water, approximately 200 million people are expected to face hunger by 2030. Going forward, the sustainability of energy, water, and food (EWF) resources can be enhanced by considering a nexus approach, which supports effective resource management by identifying synergies and trade-offs. Furthermore, the regeneration of biomass into value-added products, such as biochar (BC), can reduce cross-sectoral environmental impacts and support the EWF nexus.

Methodology: This research investigates the optimum options for utilizing BC within the context of the EWF nexus for both wastewater treatment and soil applications whilst considering the optimal blending ratio of various biomass (camel manure, date pits, sewage sludge, and coffee waste) for both single-end use and multi-end use stages to fulfill various objectives within defined scenarios based on maximum savings in energy, water, cost, and emissions.

Results and discussion: The single-end use stage considered using BC for wastewater treatment (WWT) and as a soil amendment (SA) individually, and 18 optimal solutions were collected for this stage. The optimization of the multi-end use stage resulted in 70 optimal solutions, where BC was applied for both WWT and SA. The solutions that leaned toward SA application suggested that BC should consist of 97%–99% of date pits with relatively smaller proportions of the other biomass. On the other hand, the other solutions that leaned toward the WWT pathway suggested that the optimum biomass mix should consist of relatively equal proportions of camel manure, sewage sludge, and coffee waste of 29%—33% and smaller amounts of date pits of approximately 2%–5%.
Application of nonlinear stiffness mechanism on energy harvesting from vortex-induced vibrations
Authors: Gao Zhenguo , Li Zhifu , Niu Jianjie , Yin Qilin , Liu Kun
Published: September 2023

This study investigates the potential of vortex-induced vibration (VIV) as a renewable energy source, achieved when fluid flow interacts with a bluff body, inducing self-sustained oscillations through vortex shedding in the wake. While VIV research has traditionally focused on understanding its mechanisms and mitigating detrimental effects, interest in VIV energy harvesting has surged as a means to convert marine hydrokinetic (MHK) energy into usable electrical power. The nonlinear effects of two linear oblique springs on VIV energy harvesting are explored using the wake oscillator model, encompassing bistable and Duffing hardening stiffness. The study examines the response and energy harvesting performance while considering the impact of undeformed spring length, structural damping, and initial conditions on VIV energy conversion. Findings show that nonlinear stiffness application in the VIV system can broaden the synchronization bandwidth or reduce the VIV initiation flow speed. Bistable stiffness may broaden the synchronization velocity range, while Duffing hardening stiffness efficiently reduces the VIV initiation speed with small energy harvesting loss. Combining both stiffness types with appropriate control strategies presents a promising approach for achieving a broad synchronization VIV bandwidth and low initiation flow speed. Key parameters, such as the nondimensional parameter defining spring system obliquity and the ratio between undeformed spring length and cylinder diameter, significantly influence VIV response and energy harvesting. Moreover, optimal structural damping is vital to maximize energy harvesting efficiency, and understanding and controlling initial conditions are crucial for optimizing VIV synchronization bandwidth and energy harvesting efficiency for both bistable and Duffing hardening stiffness. This study provides valuable insights into VIV system dynamics and energy conversion potential with nonlinear springs, offering promising avenues for enhancing energy harvesting efficiency and inspiring further applications of nonlinear effects in VIV energy converters.
New insights at the interface between leprosy and immune-mediated rheumatic diseases
Authors: Cruz Vitor Alves , Albuquerque Cleandro Pires de , Guimarães Maria Fernanda Brandão de Resende , Dionello Carla da Fontoura , Ribeiro Sandra Lúcia Euzébio , Souza Viviane Angelina de , Gomes Ciro Martins , Mota Licia Maria Henrique da
Published: September 2023

Leprosy is an infectious and contagious disease of slow evolution, triggered by Mycobacterium leprae. Arthritis is its third most common manifestation, after cutaneous and peripheral nerve involvement. Since musculoskeletal symptoms may be the initial presentation of the disease, it is important for health professionals to recognize its rheumatic manifestations for early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, especially in endemic areas. In addition, cases of leprosy have increased globally, notably in patients undergoing treatment with TNF-α blockers and due to the increase in migration and travel of people from developing countries to developed countries. This review proposes to discuss the main scenarios of mimicry of different rheumatic diseases by leprosy, as well as the role of immunosuppressive drugs used in rheumatology practice in the treatment of reactional states and in the risk of developing the infection.
A randomized controlled study comparing the objective efficacy and safety of a novel self-inserted disposable vaginal prolapse device and existing ring pessaries
Authors: Ziv Elan , Erlich Tsvia
Published: September 2023

Introduction

ProVate is a novel, disposable, collapsible self-inserted vaginal device for the nonsurgical management of pelvic organ prolapse (POP). We assessed possible vaginal microflora changes and POP reduction using ProVate and a commercially available ring pessary (control).

Methods

We performed post-hoc analysis of data obtained from an interventional, prospective, multicenter, open-label, randomized, controlled, statistically powered (noninferiority), home-use, cross-over study conducted at seven sites. Safety and performance data collected for both devices were analyzed to compare objective POP reduction (employing the Pelvic Organ Prolapse Quantification System [POP-Q]), safety (assessed by the incidence of adverse events [AEs]), and the rates of certain AEs.

Results

Eighty-five women with symptomatic POP were screened; 71 were randomized, and 58 completed the study per protocol. Forty-nine (90.7%) ProVate users experienced complete prolapse reduction (stage 0), 3 (5.6%) experienced reductions to POP-Q stage 1, and 2 (3.7%%) experienced reductions to stage 2. Collectively, 52/54 (96.3%) ProVate users experienced prolapse reduction to stage 0 or 1. In all, 47/57 (82.5%) control users experienced complete prolapse reduction, while 5 (8.8%), 4 (7.0%), and 1 (1.8%) experienced reductions to stage 1, 2, and stage 3, respectively. Collectively, 52/57 (91.2%) control users experienced reductions to either stage 0 or 1. In 53/54 (98.1%) ProVate and 55/57 (96.5%) control users, there was at least 1 POP-Q stage prolapse reduction, and in 32 (91.4%) ProVate and 31 (83.8%) control users who had stage ≥3 prolapse, there were at least three POP-Q stage reductions. In total, 26/71 (36.6%) ProVate and 22/64 (34.4%) control users in the safety population experienced AEs. The incidence of device-related AEs was 17/71 (23.9%) for ProVate and 13/64 (20.3%) for the control. Most AEs were minor, mild, and anticipated.

Conclusion

Our analysis demonstrated that ProVate and the control are highly effective in reducing POP, and both are associated with comparably low numbers of AEs. However, ProVate has the advantage of being more user-friendly, suitable for home use, and expected to allow women with POP to practice better and easier self-care.
Sleep in marathon and ultramarathon runners: a brief narrative review
Authors: Nikolaidis Pantelis T. , Weiss Katja , Knechtle Beat , Trakada Georgia
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Sleep is considered a fundamental biological function in humans necessary for recovery from daily physical activities. Considering the increasing popularity of long-distance running and participation in races such as marathons and ultramarathons, the aim of the present study was to review the relationship of such strenuous physical activities with sleep.

Methods

A search of Scopus was performed on 24/6/2023 using the syntax [ABS (sleep) AND ABS (marathon)] to identify relevant papers, the references of which were hand-searched to find additional sources.

Results

Optimal sleep has been shown to affect injury prevention and susceptibility to infection positively. In turn, participation in a marathon race may influence nocturnal autonomic modulation and disturb homeostasis. Ultramarathon races may have such a long duration that results in sleep deprivation even for several days, where sleep duration is quite below the physiological range. It seems that for ultramarathons of short duration, continuous running and sleep deprivation are beneficial for performance. In contrast, for races longer than 200 miles, it is necessary to develop sleep strategies to sustain performance.

Conclusion

In summary, the longer the distance of a running race, the greater the importance of an optimal sleep for race performance as well as the impact of a race on sleep.
Assessing focus through ear-EEG: a comparative study between conventional cap EEG and mobile in- and around-the-ear EEG systems
Authors: Crétot-Richert Gabrielle , De Vos Maarten , Debener Stefan , Bleichner Martin G. , Voix Jérémie
Published: September 2023

Introduction

As our attention is becoming a commodity that an ever-increasing number of applications are competing for, investing in modern day tools and devices that can detect our mental states and protect them from outside interruptions holds great value. Mental fatigue and distractions are impacting our ability to focus and can cause workplace injuries. Electroencephalography (EEG) may reflect concentration, and if EEG equipment became wearable and inconspicuous, innovative brain-computer interfaces (BCI) could be developed to monitor mental load in daily life situations. The purpose of this study is to investigate the potential of EEG recorded inside and around the human ear to determine levels of attention and focus.

Methods

In this study, mobile and wireless ear-EEG were concurrently recorded with conventional EEG (cap) systems to collect data during tasks related to focus: an N-back task to assess working memory and a mental arithmetic task to assess cognitive workload. The power spectral density (PSD) of the EEG signal was analyzed to isolate consistent differences between mental load conditions and classify epochs using step-wise linear discriminant analysis (swLDA).

Results and discussion

Results revealed that spectral features differed statistically between levels of cognitive load for both tasks. Classification algorithms were tested on spectral features from twelve and two selected channels, for the cap and the ear-EEG. A two-channel ear-EEG model evaluated the performance of two dry in-ear electrodes specifically. Single-trial classification for both tasks revealed above chance-level accuracies for all subjects, with mean accuracies of: 96% (cap-EEG) and 95% (ear-EEG) for the twelve-channel models, 76% (cap-EEG) and 74% (in-ear-EEG) for the two-channel model for the N-back task; and 82% (cap-EEG) and 85% (ear-EEG) for the twelve-channel, 70% (cap-EEG) and 69% (in-ear-EEG) for the two-channel model for the arithmetic task. These results suggest that neural oscillations recorded with ear-EEG can be used to reliably differentiate between levels of cognitive workload and working memory, in particular when multi-channel recordings are available, and could, in the near future, be integrated into wearable devices.
Matrix metalloproteinases and tissue inhibitors in multiple myeloma: promote or inhibit?
Authors: Li Yan-Ying , Zhang Liu-Yun , Xiang Yun-Hui , Li Dan , Zhang Juan
Published: September 2023

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases (TIMPs) play a vital role in the pathogenesis of multiple myeloma (MM), especially for tumor invasion and osteolytic osteopathy. By breaking down extracellular matrix (ECM) components and releasing the proteins composing the ECM and growth factors, as well as their receptors, MMPs affect tissue integrity and promote cancer cell invasion and metastasis. A vital pathophysiological characteristic of MM is the progress of osteolytic lesions, which are brought on by interactions between myeloma cells and the bone marrow microenvironment. MMPs, certainly, are one of the fundamental causes of myeloma bone disease due to their ability to degrade various types of collagens. TIMPs, as important regulators of MMP hydrolysis or activation, also participate in the occurrence and evolution of MM and the formation of bone disease. This review focuses on the role of MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-7, MMP-9, MMP-13, MMP-14, and MMP-15 and the four types of TIMPs in the invasion of myeloma cells, angiogenesis, osteolytic osteopathy, to offer some novel perspectives on the clinical diagnostics and therapeutics of MM.
Case report: A simple and reliable approach for progressive internal distraction of the sternum for Jeune syndrome (asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy): preliminary experience and literature review of surgical techniques
Authors: Inserra Alessandro , Zarfati Angelo , Pardi Valerio , Bertocchini Arianna , Accinni Antonella , Aloi Ivan Pietro , Martucci Cristina , Frediani Simone
Published: September 2023

Background

Described for the first time in 1954, Jeune syndrome (JS), often called asphyxiating thoracic dystrophy, is a congenital musculoskeletal disease characterized by short ribs, a narrow thorax, and small limbs. In this study, we analyzed and presented our preliminary experience with a device for progressive internal distraction of the sternum (PIDS) in patients with symptomatic JS. In addition, we reviewed the contemporary English literature on existing surgical techniques for treating children with congenital JS.

Material and methods

A retrospective analysis of pediatric patients (<18 years old) treated for symptomatic JS at our tertiary center between 2017 and 2023 was performed.

Results

We presented two patients with JS who underwent surgery using an internal sternal distractor, a Zurich II Micro Zurich Modular Distractor, placed at the corpus of the sternum among the divided halves.

Conclusions

We obtained promising results regarding the safety and effectiveness of this less-invasive device for PIDS in patients with symptomatic JS. Further studies on long-term outcomes are needed to validate these findings.
Perinatal palliative care: focus on comfort
Authors: McCarthy F. T. , Kenis A. , Parravicini E.
Published: September 2023

Providing comfort while a patient is living with a life-limiting condition or at end of life is the hallmark of palliative care regardless of the patient's age. In perinatal palliative care, the patient is unable to speak for themselves. In this manuscript we will present guidelines garnered from the 15-year experience of the Neonatal Comfort Care Program at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, and how they provide care for families along the perinatal journey. We will describe essential tools and strategies necessary to consider in assessing and providing comfort to infants facing a life-limiting diagnosis in utero, born at the cusp of viability or critically ill where the burden of care may outweigh the benefit.
Case report: A late and isolated presentation of meningoencephalomyelitis uncovers a novel pathogenic variant in the CIITA gene
Authors: Alosaimi Mohammed F. , Hamad Muddathir H. , AlShammari Muneera J. , Jamjoom Dima Z. , Musibeeh Najd S.
Published: September 2023

Background

Bare lymphocyte syndrome type II (BLS II) is a rare form of severe combined immunodeficiency caused by mutations in the CIITA gene, which regulates major histocompatibility complex class II (MHC II) expression.

Objective

We report the case of a Saudi boy with a novel mutation in the CIITA gene who presented with acute and late meningoencephalomyelitis, resulting in severe neurodevelopmental regression.

Methods

We reviewed the patient's clinical and laboratory data obtained from medical records and performed a literature search on BLS II.

Results

The patient presented with acute meningoencephalomyelitis confirmed by MRI findings and was later found to carry a homozygous pathogenic variant in the CIITA gene p.(Leu473Hisfs*15). The patient had no MCH II expression, confirming the genetic diagnosis of autosomal recessive BLS II. Surprisingly, the patient's prior clinical history was unremarkable for significant infections or autoimmunity.

Conclusions

We report a case with a novel CIITA gene mutation presenting atypically with a late and isolated severe infection. Isolated severe meningoencephalomyelitis may be a manifestation of primary immunodeficiency.
A study on the preparation conditions of lidocaine microemulsion based on multi-objective genetic algorithm
Authors: Qiao Yuchao , Wang Xuchun , Ren Hao , Cui Yu , Ren Jiahui , Hao Chongqi , Zhao Zhiyang , Liu Jing , Zhao Ruiqing , Li Yiting , Tian Qingping , Qiu Lixia
Published: September 2023

Background: Topical lidocaine microemulsion preparations with low toxicity, low irritation, strong transdermal capability and convenient administration are urgently needed.

Methods: Box-Behnken design was performed for three preparation conditions of 5% lidocaine microemulsions: mass ratio of the mass ratio of surfactant/(oil phase + surfactant) (X1), the mass ratio of olive oil/(α-linolenic acid + linoleic acid) (X2) and the water content W% (X3). Then, five multi-objective genetic algorithms were used to optimize the three evaluation indices to optimize the effects of lidocaine microemulsion preparations. Finally, the ideal optimization scheme was experimentally verified.

Results: Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm-II was used for 30 random searches. Among these, Scheme 2: X1 = 0.75, X2 = 0.35, X3 = 75%, which resulted in Y1 = 0.17 μg/(cm2·s) and Y2 = 0.74 mg/cm2; and the Scheme 19: X1 = 0.68, X2 = 1.42, X3 = 75% which resulted in Y1 = 0.14 μg/(cm2·s) and Y2 = 0.80 mg/cm2, provided the best matches for the objective function requirements. The maximum and average fitness of the method have reached stability after 3 generations of evolution. Experimental verification of the above two schemes showed that there were no statistically significant differences between the measured values of Y1 and Y2 and the predicted values obtained by optimization (p > 0.05) and are close to the target value.

Conclusion: Two lidocaine microemulsion preparation protocols were proposed in this study. These preparations resulted in good transdermal performance or long anesthesia duration, respectively.
The Higgs boson couplings: past, present, and future. The relationships between Higgs boson and other known particles as measured by current and future experiments
Authors: Ortona Giacomo
Published: September 2023

The discovery of the Higgs boson, a fundamental particle of the Standard Model, at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) in 2012, marked a monumental milestone in the field of particle physics. Since then, extensive research has been conducted to understand the properties and interactions of the Higgs boson, particularly its couplings with other known particles. This article provides a review of the past, present, and future measurements of the Higgs boson couplings, with a focus on the most recent experimental developments. It discusses the experimental techniques and methods used to study the Higgs boson couplings, including the production and decay channels employed in various experiments. The article highlights the important relationships between the Higgs boson and other known particles, including the gauge bosons (W and Z bosons), quarks, and leptons and the Higgs boson itself, through its self-interaction. After discussing the channels used by ATLAS and CMS collaborations to measure the Higgs boson coupling to the other standard model particles, the article will present an overview of the latest results obtained at the LHC, commenting on how various measurements have evolved over time along with a better comprehension of the detectors and ever more refined analysis techniques. Future collider developments and expectation for the measurement of the Higgs boson couplings and double-Higgs boson production with increased precision and accuracy will be discussed along with the main challenges faced by future experiments.
Research on multi-layer network routing selection strategy based on cooperative evolutionary game in IoT environment
Authors: Wang Jianrong , Su Kaixuan , Yang Guoyuan , Bai Wei , Wang Xiaoshu
Published: September 2023

As a new technology and application mode, the Internet of Things has an important impact on social life and economic development. In recent years, low-cost optimization of network transmission to solve the congestion problem of multi-layer communication networks has become one of the research hotspots. In this paper, a multi-dimensional communication data transmission model based on a multi-layer network is proposed. It then uses cooperative evolutionary game theory to calculate revenue, update weights, and adapt neighbors. Finally, the attention mechanism is dynamically introduced to share the weights of the multi-layer network, and the multi-dimensional communication propagation and routing strategies in the Internet of Things are studied and analyzed. The experimental results show that the model proposed in this paper has higher game revenue and application value than traditional single-layer network game theory. In particular, the indicators of cooperation rate, stable state, and maximum cooperation rate are better than the latter. The research results of this paper have important reference value for solving the problems of cooperation dilemma, social stickiness, and synergy in multi-layer networks.
Overexpression of a pseudo-etiolated-in-light-like protein in Taraxacum koksaghyz leads to a pale green phenotype and enables transcriptome-based network analysis of photomorphogenesis and isoprenoid biosynthesis
Authors: Wolters Silva Melissa , Benninghaus Vincent Alexander , Roelfs Kai-Uwe , van Deenen Nicole , Twyman Richard M. , Prüfer Dirk , Schulze Gronover Christian
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Plant growth and greening in response to light require the synthesis of photosynthetic pigments such as chlorophylls and carotenoids, which are derived from isoprenoid precursors. In Arabidopsis, the pseudo-etiolated-in-light phenotype is caused by the overexpression of repressor of photosynthetic genes 2 (RPGE2), which regulates chlorophyll synthesis and photosynthetic genes.

Methods

We investigated a homologous protein in the Russian dandelion (Taraxacum koksaghyz) to determine its influence on the rich isoprenoid network in this species, using a combination of in silico analysis, gene overexpression, transcriptomics and metabolic profiling.

Results

Homology-based screening revealed a gene designated pseudo-etiolated-in-light-like (TkPEL-like), and in silico analysis identified a light-responsive G-box element in its promoter. TkPEL-like overexpression in dandelion plants and other systems reduced the levels of chlorophylls and carotenoids, but this was ameliorated by the mutation of one or both conserved cysteine residues. Comparative transcriptomics in dandelions overexpressing TkPEL-like showed that genes responsible for the synthesis of isoprenoid precursors and chlorophyll were downregulated, probably explaining the observed pale green leaf phenotype. In contrast, genes responsible for carotenoid synthesis were upregulated, possibly in response to feedback signaling. The evaluation of additional differentially expressed genes revealed interactions between pathways.

Discussion

We propose that TkPEL-like negatively regulates chlorophyll- and photosynthesis-related genes in a light-dependent manner, which appears to be conserved across species. Our data will inform future studies addressing the regulation of leaf isoprenoid biosynthesis and photomorphogenesis and could be used in future breeding strategies to optimize selected plant isoprenoid profiles and generate suitable plant-based production platforms.
Predicting suicide attempts among Norwegian adolescents without using suicide-related items: a machine learning approach
Authors: Haghish E. F. , Czajkowski Nikolai O. , von Soest Tilmann
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Research on the classification models of suicide attempts has predominantly depended on the collection of sensitive data related to suicide. Gathering this type of information at the population level can be challenging, especially when it pertains to adolescents. We addressed two main objectives: (1) the feasibility of classifying adolescents at high risk of attempting suicide without relying on specific suicide-related survey items such as history of suicide attempts, suicide plan, or suicide ideation, and (2) identifying the most important predictors of suicide attempts among adolescents.

Methods

Nationwide survey data from 173,664 Norwegian adolescents (ages 13–18) were utilized to train a binary classification model, using 169 questionnaire items. The Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) algorithm was fine-tuned to classify adolescent suicide attempts, and the most important predictors were identified.

Results

XGBoost achieved a sensitivity of 77% with a specificity of 90%, and an AUC of 92.1% and an AUPRC of 47.1%. A coherent set of predictors in the domains of internalizing problems, substance use, interpersonal relationships, and victimization were pinpointed as the most important items related to recent suicide attempts.

Conclusion

This study underscores the potential of machine learning for screening adolescent suicide attempts on a population scale without requiring sensitive suicide-related survey items. Future research investigating the etiology of suicidal behavior may direct particular attention to internalizing problems, interpersonal relationships, victimization, and substance use.
Depression, anxiety, insomnia and interleukins in the early postpartum period
Authors: Drozdowicz-Jastrzębska Ewa , Mach Anna , Skalski Michał , Januszko Piotr , Jabiry-Zieniewicz Zoulikha , Siwek Marcin , Wawrzyniak Zbigniew Maciej , Radziwoń-Zaleska Maria
Published: September 2023

Background

Some new mothers have been shown to suffer from anxiety and depression associated with insomnia during the postpartum period. Our study assessed the impact of demographic, psychopathological, and biochemical factors on the incidence of depression in women during the early postpartum period.

Methods

A total of 119 women were evaluated at 24–48 h postpartum with the following psychometric scales: Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HDRS), Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale (HARS) and Athens Insomnia Scale (AIS). In addition, blood was drawn to assay interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interleukin 10 (IL-10).

Results

The factors that had the greatest impact on the risk of postpartum depression detected with the HDRS were high HARS scores and evidence of insomnia in the AIS. There were no significant differences in IL-6 or IL-10 levels in women with and without depression (based on either HDRS or EPDS scores) and insomnia (based on AIS) after childbirth. Considering demographic factors, divorced and single women were shown to be at higher risk of postpartum depression (based on EPDS scores).

Limitations

Small sample size and short observation span.

Conclusion

This study highlights the relationship between postpartum depression and both anxiety and insomnia and emphasises the importance to assess symptoms of anxiety and sleep quality as part of screening in women at risk of postpartum depression.