bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neutropenia and its possible effect on the effectiveness of artemisinin-based combination therapy in pregnant women in Mali
Authors: Djimde Moussa , Arama Charles , Diakité Hamadoun , Keita Mohamed , Koné Bouréma , Tembely Bréhima , Samaké Mamadou D. , Bagayoko Balla , Traoré Mohamed B. , Tshiongo Japhet Kabalu , Ntlapo Noluthando , Dicko Alassane , Vaillant Michel , Mens Petra F. , Schallig Henk D. F. H. , Kayentao Kassoum
Published: April 2024

Background
Reducing the burden of malaria in pregnant women remains a serious challenge for control programmes. A possible waning in immunity makes pregnant women more vulnerable to infectious diseases, including malaria. In this study, the effect of neutropenia on artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACTs) effectiveness in clearing current Plasmodium falciparum infection and preventing reinfection after treatment was investigated.
Methods
Data for this study were obtained within the context of a clinical trial evaluating the efficacy of pyronaridine-artesunate compared to other ACTs to treat malaria infection in African pregnant women (PYRAPREG). Participants were treated with either artemether-lumefantrine (AL, n1 = 188), dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DP, n2 = 183), or pyronaridine-artesunate (PA, n3 = 174) and were followed for 63 days after treatment. Dynamics of neutrophil levels in the peripheral blood of the participants were measured during the 63-day follow-up. Based on the neutrophil counts, the pregnant women were classified as either neutropenic or non-neutropenic. A chi-square test was used to compare adequate clinical and parasitological response (ACPR) rate according to neutrophil status.
Results
Without molecular correction at Day 28, the rate of ACPR was higher in the non-neutropenic pregnant women 96.6% (54/56) compared to neutropenic pregnant women 87.0% (114/131) in the AL arm; p = 0.038. However, ACPR did not vary according to neutrophil status in DP and PA treatment arms. In the DP treatment arm, ACPR was 97.2% (105/108) versus 98.6% (73/74) respectively in neutropenic and non-neutropenic pregnant women (p = 0.463). In the PA treatment arm, it was 99.1% (105/106) versus 98.5% (66/67) respectively in neutropenic and non-neutropenic pregnant women (p = 0.851). Molecular analysis revealed that there was no recrudescence during the 28-day follow-up, regardless of the treatment arm.
Conclusion
The findings suggest that lower peripheral blood neutrophil levels may decrease the prophylactic effectiveness of AL but not of DP or PA in pregnant women.
Facile Fabrication of Hollow Ag-Au Alloy Nanostructures Directly on Filter Paper and their Enhanced Catalytic and Antibacterial Applications
Authors: Shafique Saima , Arif Saira , Batool Unsia , Ahmed Israr , Khan Ghazanfar Ali , Nawaz Rabia , Imran Muhammad , Butt Haider , Ahmed Waqqar
Published: April 2024

Hollow noble metal alloy nanostructures have recently attracted great attention owing to their exceptional potential for various applications. These nanostructures are generally synthesized in solution. However, for several applications, their deposition on the substrate is needed. Herein, we present the novel synthesis of hollow Au-Ag alloy nanostructures directly on the filter paper. The synthesis was carried out in two steps. First, Ag nanostructures were directly grown on the filter paper by reducing the pre-deposited Ag ions with ascorbic acid, yielding Ag nanostructure substrate (AgNS-S). These NPs were subsequently etched with HAuCl4 exploiting the galvanic replacement reaction (GRR), which yielded hollow Au-Ag alloy nanostructure substrate (HANS-S). Owing to the enhanced surface area and the presence of a high concentration of atoms in the low coordination state, these HANS-S showed excellent catalytic and antibacterial properties. In particular, the rate constants of the reduction of 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) to 4-aminophenol (4-AP), and the degradation of methyl orange (MO) increased by a factor of approximately 3.5 and 3.4, respectively, when employing HANS-S compared to utilizing AgNS-S. Similarly, the filter paper having hollow Au-Ag alloy nanostructures showed markedly superior antibacterial activity. While AgNS-S did not show any zone of inhibition (ZOI) outside the substrate, HANS-S showed notable ZOI for both S. aureus and E. coli, which verifies the antibacterial activity of these nanostructures against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
Thermal Energy Conversion Using Niti Shape Memory Alloy Material
Authors: Abubakar Rabiu , Nuhu Ibrahim
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a NiTi SMA heat engine is proposed. It converts thermal energy from a source of temperature different to mechanical energy. The Assumed temperature difference is (70 oC). The temperature is obtainable when the engine is used in a geothermal source. But if the engine is used for ocean thermal energy, incorporated solar or heat pumped will be used. The engine behavior is simulated, and the model is compared to experimental data. The engine developed a maximum driving force of 17.3N, a torque of 0.9Nm, and an efficiency of 4.51%.
Gestational exposure to organochlorine compounds and metals and infant birth weight: Effect modification by maternal hardships
Authors: Hu Janice M.Y. , Arbuckle Tye E. , Janssen Patricia A. , Lanphear Bruce P. , Alampi Joshua D. , Braun Joseph M. , MacFarlane Amanda J. , Chen Aimin , McCandless Lawrence C.
Published: April 2024

Background
Gestational exposure to toxic environmental chemicals and maternal social hardships are individually associated with impaired fetal growth, but it is unclear whether the effects of environmental chemical exposure on infant birth weight are modified by maternal hardships.
Methods
We used data from the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) Study, a pan-Canadian cohort of 1982 pregnant females enrolled between 2008 and 2011. We quantified eleven environmental chemical concentrations from two chemical classes – six organochlorine compounds (OCs) and five metals – that were detected in ≥ 70% of blood samples collected during the first trimester. Using birth weight adjusted for gestational age (GA) as our outcome, we assessed nine maternal hardships by questionnaire. Each maternal hardship variable was dichotomized to indicate whether the females experienced the hardship. In our analysis, we used elastic net to select the environmental chemicals, maternal hardships, and 2-way interactions between maternal hardships and environmental chemicals that were most predictive of birth weight. Next, we obtained effect estimates using multiple linear regression, and plotted the relationships by hardship status for visual interpretation.
Results
Elastic net selected trans-nonachlor, lead, low educational status, minority status, and low supplemental folic acid intake. All were inversely associated with birth weight. Elastic net also selected interaction terms. Among those with increasing environmental chemical exposures and reported hardships, we observed stronger negative associations and a few positive associations. For example, every two-fold increase in lead concentrations was more strongly associated with reduced infant birth weight among participants with low educational status (β = -100 grams (g); 95% confidence interval (CI): -215, 16), than those with higher educational status (β = -34 g; 95% CI: -63, -3). In contrast, every two-fold increase in mercury concentrations was associated with slightly higher birth weight among participants with low educational status (β = 23 g; 95% CI: -25, 71) compared to those with higher educational status (β = -9 g; 95% CI: -24, 6).
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that maternal hardships can modify the associations of gestational exposure to some OCs and metals with infant birth weight.
Design and Analysis of Novel Sense Amplifier for bio- medical Applications
Authors: Bikki Pavankumar
Published: April 2024

This paper presents the realization of a novel sense amplifier for biomedical applications, with a primary focus on its application in cardiac pacemakers. The researchers focus on low-power biomedical devices, achieving this by advanced active devices like the Differential Voltage Current Conveyor (DVCC). In a pacemaker, both sensing and pacing functions are crucial. The sense amplifier consists of an instrumentation amplifier, a bandpass filter, and a comparator, enabling it to recognize the PQRST complex in the cardiac cycle. We introduce a novel model for the sense amplifier, employing a DVCC, and conduct analyses using the TSMC 130 nm technology. The gain of the current-mode instrumentation amplifier (CMIA) is 56.3, and the CMRR is 60.7. Moreover, the proposed design analysis addresses power dissipation, temperature, and noise. Furthermore, experiments performed with the analog IC AD844 have demonstrated the efficiency of the proposed sense amplifier design. Additionally, we analyzed the ECG (electrocardiogram) signal by identifying its patterns. We have used the Fast Fourier transform (FFT) to determine the power spectrum and frequency response of the signal. Studies that looked at signal analysis in the literature used radix-2, SRFFT, and other algorithms. These can save up to 5.066% of power compared to using an FFT ASIC. Hence, we proposed a modified radix-2 approach for the low power spectrum of an ECG cycle. The Radix-2 customized method drastically reduces the number of computations, resulting in a low power consumption of 3.339 mW, and a leakage power of 1.272 mW. Furthermore, it would promote real-time adaptability and increase accuracy in pattern recognition for ECG signals. The results demonstrate that the new sense amplifier model achieves substantial gain and a CMRR, making it more efficient than previous versions.
Flexible hydrophobic association hydrogel prepared by xylan and lauryl methacrylate
Authors: Fan Xiaotong , Xiang Zhouyang , Li Pengfei , He Chao , Zhang Xiaoran , Hu Zhenhua , Liu Yushen
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the possibility of xylan-based flexible hydrophobic association hydrogels. Lauryl methacrylate (LMA) was used as hydrophobic monomer. The effects of acrylamide (AM), sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and LMA amounts on the mechanical properties of the hydrogels were investigated. The hydrogels showed better tensile strength (30 kPa ~ 341.8 kPa) and higher elongation at break (1726.7%~2964.5%). These results suggested that these hydrogels have good flexibility. Moreover, the hydrogels exhibited good thermal properties at the range of 30 ~ 80 ℃. These hydrogels with toughness, good water-retaining property and good thermal property would be applied in many fields.
Serum LGALS3BP is a potential biomarker for interstitial lung disease in dermatomyositis
Authors: Huang Liuyi , Zhou Wei , Jiang Yanting , Zhu Haiqing , Lao Yuehong , Huang Xiaoxia , Deng Zhenjia , Tang Yuting , Wang Jian , Li Xi
Published: April 2024

Objectives
To assess the relationship between serum LGALS3BP levels and clinical features in patients with dermatomyositis (DM), emphasizing interstitial lung disease (ILD) and disease activity.
Methods
The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to detect the serum levels of LGALS3BP in 63 patients diagnosed with DM, 21 patients diagnosed with immune-mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM), and 36 healthy controls (HC). Clinical characteristics and laboratory parameters of patients were collected retrospectively.
Results
Serum LGALS3BP levels were significantly higher in DM patients than in IMNM patients and HC (p = 0.003 and p < 0.001). Serum LGALS3BP levels among DM patients were significantly higher in those with rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP-ILD) compared to those without ILD (p < 0.001) or with chronic interstitial lung disease (C-ILD) (p = 0.007). LGALS3BP levels were negatively correlated with pulmonary function test (PFT) parameters, including FVC% (r = -0.639, p = 0.008), FEV1% (r = -0.594, p = 0.015), but not with DLco (r = -0.308, p = 0.264). In addition to ILD, serum LGALS3BP levels were elevated in DM patients with muscle involvement and dysphagia (p < 0.05). Serum LGALS3BP levels in DM patients were positively correlated with albumin, globulin, LDH, CRP, ESR, ferritin, IL-6, and VAS scores (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
The aberrant expression of LGALS3BP in DM patients may be involved in the pathogenesis of DM-ILD, and additionally, LGALS3BP may be a promising biomarker for tracking disease activity, especially the severity of RP-ILD.
Distribution of Heavy Metals in the Sediments of Ganga River Basin: Source Identification and Risk Assessment
Authors: Kushwaha Stuti , Raju N. Janardhana , Macklin Mark , Ramanathan AL.
Published: April 2024

Sediment serves as a heavy metal store in the riverine system and provides information about the river’s health. To understand the distribution of heavy metal content in the Ganga River basin, a total of 25-bed sediment and suspended particulate matter (SPM) samples were collected from 25 locations in December 2019. Bed sediment samples were analyzed for different physio-chemical parameters, along with heavy metals. Due to insufficient quantity of SPM, the samples were not analyzed for any physio-chemical parameter. The metal concentrations in bed sediments were found to be as follows: Co (6–20 mg/kg), Cr (34–108 mg/kg), Ni (6–46 mg/kg), Cu (14–210 mg/kg), and Zn (30–264 mg/kg) and in SPM, the concentrations were Co (BDL-50 mg/kg), Cr (10–168 mg/kg), Ni (BDL-88 mg/kg), Cu (26–80 mg/kg), and Zn (44-1186 mg/kg). In bed sediment, a strong correlation of 0.86 and 0.93 was found between Ni and Cr, and Cu and Zn respectively and no significant correlation exists between organic carbon and metals except Co. In SPM, a low to moderate correlation was found between all the metals except Zn. The risk indices show adverse effects at Pragayraj, Fulhar, and Banshberia. Two major clusters were formed in HCA among the sample points in SPM and bed sediment. This study concludes that the Ganga River at Prayagraj, Bansberia, and Fulhar River is predominately polluted with Cu and Zn, possibly posing an ecological risk. These results can help policymakers in implementing measures to control metal pollution in the Ganga River and its tributaries.
Photocatalytic upcycling of polylactic acid to alanine by sulfur vacancy-rich cadmium sulfide
Authors: Yan Ning , Wu Yue , Nguyen Phuc , Wong Sie Shing , Zhang Tianyong
Published: April 2024

Photocatalytic conversion has emerged as a promising strategy for harnessing renewable solar energy in the valorization of plastic waste. However, research on the photocatalytic transformation of plastics into valuable nitrogen-containing chemicals remains limited. In this study, we present a visible-light-driven pathway for the conversion of polylactic acid (PLA) into alanine under mild conditions. This process is catalyzed by defect-engineered CdS nanocrystals synthesized at room temperature. We observed a distinctive volcano-shaped relationship between sulfur vacancy content in CdS and the corresponding alanine production rate reaching up to 4.95 mmol/g catalyst/h at 70 oC. Ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectra, photocurrent spectra, and Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectra revealed the crucial role of sulfur vacancies in enhancing active sites on the CdS surface. Sulfur vacancy-rich CdS exhibited high stability, maintaining catalytic performance and morphology over several runs, and effectively converted real-life PLA products. This work not only highlights a facile approach for fabricating defect-engineered catalysts but also presents a sustainable method for upcycling plastic waste into valuable chemicals.
Using Priorities between Human and Livestock Bacterial Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) to Identify Data Gaps in Livestock AMR Surveillance
Authors: Venkateswaran Narmada , Swetschinski Lucien R. , Fastl Christina , Bari Carlotta Di , Criscuolo Nicola G. , Mulchandani Ranya , Zhao Cheng , Meštrović Tomislav , Ikuta Kevin S. , Martins Sara Babo , Coyne Lucy A. , Afonso João Sucena , Huntington Ben , Rushton Jonathan , Devleesschauwer Brecht , Sartorius Benn , Boeckel Thomas P. Van , Pigott David M.
Published: April 2024

Background
Bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global threat to both humans and livestock. Despite this, there is limited global consensus on data-informed, priority areas for intervention in both sectors. We compare current livestock AMR data collection efforts with other variables pertinent to human and livestock AMR to identify critical data gaps and mutual priorities.
Methods
We globally synthesized livestock AMR data from open-source surveillance reports and point prevalence surveys stratified for six pathogens (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, non-typhoidal Salmonella, Campylobacter spp., Enterococcus faecalis, Enterococcus faecium) and eleven antimicrobial classes important in human and veterinary use, published between 2000 and 2020. We also included all livestock species represented in the data: cattle, chickens, pigs, sheep, turkeys, ducks, horses, buffaloes, and goats. We compared this data with intended priorities calculated from: disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), livestock antimicrobial usage (AMU), livestock biomass, and a global correlation exercise between livestock and human proportion of resistant isolates.
Results
Resistance to fluoroquinolones and macrolides in Staphylococcus aureus were identified as priorities in many countries but, less than 10% of these reported livestock AMR data. Resistance data for Escherichia coli specific to cattle, chickens, and pigs, which we prioritized, were also well collected. AMR data collection on non-typhoidal Salmonella and other livestock species were often not prioritized. Of 232 categories prioritized by at least one country, data were only collected for 48% (n = 112).
Conclusions
The lack of livestock AMR data globally for broad resistance in Staphylococcus aureus could underplay their zoonotic threat. Countries can bolster livestock AMR data collection, reporting, and intervention setting for Staphylococcus aureus as done for Escherichia coli. This framework can provide guidance on areas to strengthen AMR surveillance and decision-making for humans and livestock, and if done routinely, can adapt to resistance trends and priorities.
Need For Formalized Robotic Training and Curriculum in Obstetrics and Gynecology Residency: An Examination of Current Resident Outlooks and Perspectives
Authors: Adkoli Anusha , Eng Samanatha , Stephenson Ruth
Published: April 2024

Study Objective: The objectives of this study were to evaluate current robotic surgery training methodologies for ACGME-accredited obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) residency programs, better understand current resident perspectives, and explore potential areas for improvement within resident education.
Design: A cross-sectional study was done of ACGME-accredited OB/GYN residents in the 2023-2024 academic year. Setting:The study was done on a national setting via web-based survey.
Participants: 75 surveys were included.
Interventions: The study was conducted via a 33-question survey study using a mixture of multiple choice, multiple answer, and Likert scale questions.
Measurements and Main Results: Participants noted that 98.7% of their institutions perform robotic surgery and 90.7% have access to robotic console trainers. Outside of the operating room, slightly more than half of participants (57.3%) have formalized robotics training curriculums. A variety of training modalities were noted to be utilized by residents with the most helpful being hands-on training (67.7%) followed by dual assist console (45.6%). The least helpful was noted to be online modules (58.7%). Most residents either strongly agree (45.3%) or agree (36.0%) that standardized robotics curriculums should be implemented for all OB/GYN residency programs. The largest barriers to completion of this training were noted to be attending comfort with resident participation in the case (74.0%), personal time (58.9%), and availability or access to trainers (42.5%).
Conclusion: A formalized and standardized robotic training curriculum should be considered for OB/GYN residents with a multi-modal model utilizing a combination of training modalities as well as dedicated didactic hours.
Securing ocean space for the sustainable development of small-scale fisheries
Authors: Basurto Xavier , Vidin John , Franz Nicole , DeLand Sarah , Smith Beatrice , Cleary Jesse , Vegh Tibor , Halpin Patrick
Published: April 2024

Coastal small-scale fishing (SSF) communities increasingly face an untenable competition for ocean space, while it is recognized securing SSF access to marine resources is key for their sustainable development. Can preferential access areas (PAAs)—a relatively understudied policy tool—address this tension? We provide the first global review of the status and importance of PAAs and offer a research agenda for the future. While 44 countries have established a total of 63 PAAs worldwide they only cover an aggregate 3% of continental shelf area. Yet, if appropriately enforced through shared governance with SSFs, these small coastal areas could provide millions of people with a sustainable future. This would require a shift in perception of PAAs as a “line of defense” against large-scale fishers and instead as “preferential stewardship areas,” where small-scale fishers have increased user rights, and can find incentives to fish responsibly for nutrition security, economic, and social development.
A low energy security-aware routing protocol based on grey clustering analysis in WSNs
Authors: Shen Saijie , Xu Feng , lv xin
Published: April 2024

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) comprise an extensive array of spatially dispersed sensor nodes, interconnected through a wireless medium to monitor and record physical information from the environment. In WSNs, multi-hop routing is employed for data transmission among nodes, rendering these networks susceptible to a diverse range of attacks. In order to mitigate these threats, proficient trust management schemes must be employed to ascertain node reliability and segregate malevolent nodes from the rest of the network. In recent years, trust-based routing protocols and multipath routing have become important ways to improve the security and performance of WSNs. This paper mainly introduces grey theory based on multipath and proposes a low energy security-aware routing protocol for WSNs based on grey clustering analysis (SPBCDS). Firstly, during the route establishment phase, the protocol employs a grey clustering analysis algorithm to classify the security status of each candidate cluster by conducting security analysis of the cluster area. Secondly, to ensure data privacy and enhance protocol fault tolerance, a dynamic slicing technique is introduced to select the set of candidate cluster heads, taking into account both the security status of the candidate clusters and the distance between cluster heads. Subsequently, the packets are sliced proportionally based on the security status level of the candidate clusters and directed to the corresponding candidate cluster head nodes. Experimental results demonstrate that this algorithm effectively reduces network energy consumption, extends the network lifecycle, and enhances overall network reliability.
Preferences to accessing sexual and reproductive health information and services among adolescent girls and young women in higher learning institutions in Tanzania; a qualitative study
Authors: Mwalukunga Lusajo J. , Moshi Fabiola V. , Kibusi Stephen M.
Published: April 2024

Background
Around 89% of the 1.8 billion individuals aged 10 to 24 globally reside in developing countries. Annually, approximately 21 million girls aged 15 to 19 in these regions become pregnant, with about 12 million giving birth. These statistics underscore substantial disparities in accessing sexual and reproductive health services among young people, emphasizing the lack of privilege and limited accessibility, necessitating a deeper understanding of their preferences and perceptions regarding such services.
Methods
A qualitative descriptive study was employed to explore Sexual and Reproductive Health experiences among adolescent girls and young women from two universities in Dodoma. Data were collected using in-depth interviews with 13 adolescent girls and young women aged 19 to 24 years. Thematic analysis was done to identify themes and sub-themes, such as individual, socio-cultural, and health system barriers.
Results
Community-based sources, media-based sources, healthcare services accessibility, and diverse needs of services provision emerged as superior themes of the study.
Conclusion
The study reveals diverse preferences among adolescent girls and young women (AGYW) in higher learning institutions for accessing sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services. Despite available options, including community and media-based sources, and recommendations for peer education and online platforms, individual, socio-cultural, and health system barriers persist. The study advocates for trustworthy online platforms with comprehensive content on contraception, STI prevention, and decision-making, ensuring confidentiality and user-friendliness. It suggests integrating health clubs within institutions to foster open dialogue and collaboration with healthcare professionals, educators, and peers.
Partial Least Squares Analysis of the Relationship Among Organic Acid, Total Soluble Solids, Total Phenolic, and Total Flavonoids in Ficus carica
Authors: Luo Jiajie , Dong Xueqian , Liang Jing , Jia Ming , Sun Lei , Han Yanling , Sun Rui
Published: April 2024

Figs (Ficus carica Linn.) are a new generation of economic forest crops with high nutritional value. This study aimed to clarify the intrinsic association between organic acids and the quality of figs after introducing multispecies. The figs introduced in Shandong are rich in organic acids and contain a wide variety of highly concentrated bioactive compounds. A total of 24 organic acids were detected in this experiment, 13 of which were newly detected. Citric acid was the main organic acid in Shandong-introduced figs, accounting for 66% of the total acid on average. This was followed by malic and citric acids, accounting for 15.9% and 11.6%, respectively. The mean total phenolic, flavonoid, and soluble solid contents were 1.627 mg/g, 0.588 mg/g, and 16.217 °Brix, respectively. The fig cultivar Banane had the highest total organic acid content and high total phenolic and flavonoid contents. The results of the partial least squares regression showed that the regression coefficients of caffeic acid, ferulic acid, chicoric acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, and quinic acid on the total soluble solids were in the range of 0.194–0.279, favoring the accumulation of total soluble solids. Trans-aconitic acid, citric acid, cis-aconitic acid, pyruvic acid, and tartaric acid promoted the accumulation of total phenolics and flavonoids. The regression coefficients ranged from 0.200 to 0.310 for total phenolics and 0.233 to 0.290 for total flavonoids. The discovery of a close intrinsic association between organic acids and nutrients provides a new reference basis for screening good fig cultivars and their nutritional development.
Comparative Study of Mean, Correlation, Path and ADH Activity in the Screening of Submergence Tolerance in Indica Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
Authors: Singh Rahul , Satyendra Satyendra , Prasad Bishun Deo , Talekar Nilesh Suryakant , C.P. Chetariya C.P. Chetariya , Singh Suresh Prasad , Thakur Dharamsheela
Published: April 2024

Present research investigation comprised of 28 rice genotypes of different origin were evaluated simultaneously under normal and artificially submerged conditions in Random Block Design with three replications to assess genetic parameters, correlation coefficients, direct and indirect effect of yield and yield attributing traits. Whereas, in submerged condition Alcohol dehydrogenase activity was carried out at 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 days after submergence and 5 days after de-submergence The combined analysis of correlation and path revealed significant association in control and submergence stress condition. In control condition, maximum positive significant phenotypic correlation of grain yield was observed with filled grain/panicle followed by Days to 50% Flowering whereas highest negative significant phenotypic correlation was found for grain L/B ratio followed by panicle length. In submergence stress, Survival index had significant role in grain yield and association with other traits. Grain yield in submergence condition is positive significant phenotypic correlated with filled grain/panicle and flag leaf length. Survival index and days to 50% flowering showed negative significant association with grain yield. Phenotypic path coefficient analysis revealed filled grain/panicle and days to 50% flowering showed moderate and positive direct effect on grain yield. Whereas in submergence condition Plant height at Maturity (cm) and Filled Grain/ Panicle showed positive and moderate direct phenotypic effect on grain yield. Biochemical study revealed that high alcohol dehydrogenase activity coupled with high survival percentage was recorded for RYC-743, Rajendra Sweta, Swarna Sub1, and IR 96321-315-402-B-1. Hence, selection for these characters could bring improvement in yield and yield attributing traits.
Biosynthesized Silver Nanoparticles Using Jojoba Oil as novel antibacterial agent for controlling Pectobacterium carotovorum in potato
Authors: Abdallah Yasmine , Ali Esmat F. , Abo-Elyousr Kamal A.M. , Bagy Hadeel M. Khalil
Published: April 2024

The current work describes an environmentally friendly way to create silver nanoparticles. Five bacterial isolates were isolated and tested for pathogenicity test, all of this isolates were able to produced typical symptoms of soft rot disease. Isolates Pcc2 caused the highest disease severity. According to 16sRNA it is identified as Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum. As a reducing and capping agent, jojoba oil was utilized in the production of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). AgNPs may be identified by their UV-VIS, FTIR, and spectra. The transmission electron microscope was used to examine the shape and size of the harmless silver nanoparticles (TEM). The average particle size of the silver nanoparticles, according to the TEM data, was 25.6 ± 10.3 nm, and they had a spherical shape. The silver nanoparticles' surface had organic molecules bound to it, according to FTIR spectroscopy tests. Increasing the dosage of AgNPs had the greatest antibacterial effect against P. carotovorum, which produced soft rot on potatoes. From these results we can conclude that the use of AgNPs safety methods for controlling postharvest disease of potato.
Mendelian randomization Identifies RSPO3 in Serum as a Potential Target for Endometriosis
Authors: Guo Weijie , Zhong Zhuoling , Yang Xiuqi , Ou Taoaixin , Zhang Dingyi , Liu Yanxu , Zhang Yaoyao , Xiong Yang
Published: April 2024

Objective
Endometriosis lacks effective early intervention and treatment. Our objective is to explore potential protein drug targets in serum for endometriosis and different subtypes of endometriosis, using Mendelian randomization and Bayesian colocalization to provide support for clinical intervention.
Design
Multi-validated two-sample Mendelian randomization study, combined with Bayesian co-localization analysis to determine drug targets.
Setting
Summary statistics from published GWAS in European ancestry populations.
Population or Sample
Instrumental variants for serum proteins of finding cohort were obtained from a study on 3301 people, and instrumental variants for endometriosis and different subtypes of endometriosis of finding cohort were obtained from FinnGen cohort. Data of endometriosis of replicated cohort including 191747 people were obtained from UK biobank, and data of serum proteins of replicated cohort were obtained from a study including 35559 people.
Methods
Using Mendelian randomization, we explored and discovered a significant causal association between certain serum proteins and endometriosis. This finding was validated using data on endometriosis and serum proteins from a validation cohort. Finally, Bayesian colocalization analysis was applied to identify potential drug targets. Additionally, Mendelian randomization analysis was conducted on different subtypes of endometriosis to identify proteins potentially associated with these subtypes.
Main outcome measures
Data for the endometriosis discovery cohort were obtained from the FinnGen cohort, and data for the endometriosis validation cohort were obtained from the UK Biobank.
Results
Results from the MR analysis in the finding cohort indicated ten protein–Endometriosis pairs, including Intercellular adhesion molecule 2, R-spondin-3, Intercellular adhesion molecule 4, Endoglin, OX-2 membrane glycoprotein, Leukemia inhibitory factor receptor, Insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor, Hydroxycarboxylic acid receptor 2, Tryptase gamma, Alpha-(1,3)-fucosyltransferase 9 in the plasma. After validation analysis and Bayesian co-localization analysis, RSPO3 was identified as a potential drug target for endometriosis.
Conclusions
We conducted Mendelian Randomization analysis on GWAS data from a large population, confirming a causal relationship between serum levels of RSPO3 and endometriosis. This suggests that RSPO3 may influence the onset and progression of endometriosis, providing a protective effect. This finding supports its potential as a preventive and therapeutic approach for endometriosis.
Funding
The study was supported by funding from the projects of Chengdu Science and Technology Bureau, (Y.Z., Grant No. 2021-YF05-02110-SN), China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (Y.Z., Grant No. 2020M680149, 2020T130087ZX).
Product state-resolved reactive scattering calculations using stairshaped grids in hyperspherical coordinates for the quantum wavepacket method
Authors: Umer Umair , Usama Syed Muhammad , Zhao Hailin , Sun Zhigang
Published: April 2024

Effcient calculations of the quantum product state-resolved diﬀerential cross-sections play a crucial role in unraveling the dynamics of a chemical reaction. Using hyperspherical coordinates, a stair shaped grid-based time-dependent quantum wave packet method is proposed for efficiently calculating the product quantum state-resolved reactive scattering information. As numerical examples, quantum product state-resolved reaction probabilities for the reactions of O + O2 and Cl + H2 (v0 =1) with J = 0 are computed, which involve long-time resonance states extending over long-range grids and are difficult for obtaining accurate results using the time-dependent method. The results through calculations are being compared to those obtained using the reactant coordinate-based (RCB) method and the interaction-asymptotic decomposition method (IARD).
Fibroblast activation protein as a biomarker for containment of triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Chen Yuanyuan , Li Xiaojun , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2024

Objectives
The aim of this study was to investigate effect of Talabostat (a fibroblast activation protein inhibitor) on the cell viability of MDA-MB-231 cells and organoids. And the mechanism of containment of cells and organoids was also studied.
Methods
Cell viability of cells was demonstrated through some assays, including CCK-8, Transwell, etc. Potential mechanisms were investigated through TEM, TUNEL staining, western blot and flow cytometry.
Results
It was found that the cell viability and migration of MDA-MB-231 cells were inhibited by Talabostat (one kind of FAP inhibitor). And the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis induced by Talabostat was considered as the proliferation suppression mechanism, which was certified by RNA sequencing results. More importantly, the proliferation inhibitions of organoids induced by Talabostat were realized, which suggests the repression of FAP for TNBC treatment has strong clinical values.
Conclusions
Herein, the therapy effect of Talabostat on triple-negative breast cancer was investigated systematically, and it was found that the cell viability and migration of MDA-MB-231 cells were inhibited by Talabostat. And the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis induced by Talabostat was considered as the proliferation suppression mechanism, which was certified by RNA sequencing results. Importantly, the proliferation inhibitions of organoids induced by Talabostat were realized, which suggests the repression of FAP for TNBC treatment has strong clinical values. Our findings shed new lights on the promising treatment strategies for TNBC.
The incidence of delirium in the elderly after surgery and risk factors
Authors: Noh Nebal , Ali Diaa Haj , Rakmani Najwa
Published: April 2024

Background
Delirium is a sudden, fluctuating, and usually curable disorder of mental function that is characterized by an inability to pay attention, disorientation, an inability to think clearly, and fluctuations in the level of alertness (consciousness). Recognition and treatment of delirium are critical because postoperative delirium is associated with outcomes including functional deterioration, longer hospitalizations, increased Costs, and high mortality rates.
Research Materials and Methods
A retrospective cohort study (COHORT) was conducted On a random group of elderly patients after surgery from December 2023 to April. A paper questionnaire was conducted and patients visiting the General Surgery Department in Damascus Hospital were followed up during the period of conducting the research. Accordingly, the questionnaire was filled out and the data was reviewed under the supervision of the research supervisor.
The final sample size was 70 participants
Results
The sample included 70 patients, of which 6 were excluded, leaving us with 64 cases on which research and statistics were conducted. 57.8% were females and 42.2% were males. Participants are classified into three groups, with the age group (70 – 79) years representing the majority 71.8% (mean 76 years). 65.6% of patients did not suffer from delirium after surgery and Inability to pay attention was the most common Symptoms, these symptoms appeared during the first week at 54.5%. regarding the treatment of delirium, 90.9% of patients were treated by treating the cause, and according to the outcome of the delirium, 36.4% have completely recovered.
Conclusion
It is necessary to hold medical seminars on delirium and explain the difference between its types, as well as publish awareness campaigns on the necessity of educating medical staff, especially students, doctors, and nurses, about the psychological consequences of surgery and ways to deal with them.
Atividade envolvendo uma relação trigonométrica para alunos do Ensino Médio a partir do quadrante náutico
Authors: Chaves Laisa Moura , Oliveira Francisco Wagner Soares
Published: April 2024

No contexto da Educação Matemática cearense, tem-se visto cada vez mais, estudos entorno da construção e do uso de antigos instrumentos matemáticos, isso com vistas a trazer contributos para o processo de ensino e aprendizagem de matemática. Dentre as possibilidades de instrumentos, elencamos o quadrante náutico, isso principalmente devido à sua simplicidade, o que entendemos que pode ser uma vantagem para seu uso em sala de aula. Particularmente, desenvolvemos a pesquisa com o objetivo de apresentar uma proposta de atividade com o quadrante náutico sobre a relação trigonométrica tangente a ser desenvolvida com estudantes do 1º ano do Ensino Médio sob o aporte teórico da Teoria das Situações Didáticas. A pesquisa é de abordagem qualitativa e do tipo exploratória. Dentre os resultados, pode-se observar que o uso do quadrante em atividades de medição impulsiona a mobilização/aplicação de conceitos geométricos abstratos em uma situação prática do dia a dia, por exemplo, medir a altura de uma porta ou de objetos. Com isso, compreende-se que a atividade proposta a partir do referido instrumento pode contribuir para que a aprendizagem aconteça de forma mais dinâmica e significativa.
Palavras-chave: Ǫuadrante Náutico; Relações trigonométricas; Teoria das Situações Didáticas; Ensino de matemática.
THE INFLUENCE OF FULL-SCALE MILITARY AGGRESSION OF RUSSIA ON REGISTRATION OF CIVIL STATUS ACTS
Authors: Hrytsenko Halyna H.
Published: April 2024

The relevance of this article is explained by the need to analyze the functioning of civil registration authorities in the context of armed conflicts throughout the territory of Ukraine. The study of this topic has gained particular importance in light of the realities of military actions and Russia's aggression in Ukraine. An analysis of scientific literature and legislation allows us to conclude that, despite significant challenges, the full-scale military aggression by Russia did not lead to the collapse of the system of civil registration of acts of civil status and the judiciary in Ukraine. The government has taken effective measures to ensure the functioning of these authorities in the conditions of armed conflict. For instance, the principle of extraterritoriality was applied during the state of war, simplifying the procedure for registering acts of civil status. In many cases, the payment of state fees and court fees for events such as marriages and the establishment of facts of birth and death in areas affected by military operations was waived. It is important to note that the protection of the lives and health of citizens during military actions was ensured. For example, servicemen and healthcare institution employees had the opportunity to register marriages without personal presence, and police officers conducted examinations only on the bodies where signs of violent death were present. Changes to the procedure for registering the

death of individuals are thoroughly analyzed. This article examines crucial aspects of the functioning of the civil registration system in the context of armed conflict and emphasizes the measures taken to ensure the stability and convenience of citizens during this challenging period, with a focus on the peculiarities of registering acts of civil status in temporarily occupied territories.
Identification of Potential Arsonists and Pyromaniacs: Medical, Psychological, and Operational Investigative Aspects
Authors: Drapezo Roman
Published: April 2024

he research applied a comprehensive approach to the psychological, forensic, and investigative aspects of arson and fire-related murders. The author studied criminal cases and forensic acts that involved burnt corpses. Together with the official criminal statistics, the data made it possible to formulate the following null hypothesis: arsonists, self-immolators, and murders who use fire or imitate a fire-related accident all share a certain psychological profile and tend to develop an identifiable situation at the scene of crime. As a rule, they leave specific evidence, e.g., containers with remnants of a combustible substance, props, traces of chlorpromazine in the blood of the victim, special tools, etc., which can help to build up versions about the incident, the criminal, their motives, etc. The research resulted in an optimal set of operational-search measures aimed at solving the problems of identifying potential arsonists. The author believes that arson correlates not with sexual tension, as previously thought, but with autism disorders.
Mala Fides Insurance Agents at the Stage of Acquisition
Authors: Senotrusova Evgeniya , Ivanchey Vyacheslav
Published: April 2024

The article features the unconscionability of insurance agents at the stage of affecting the insurance contract. It describes such cases of mala fides as unfair conditions, fine and unreadable print in contract texts, poor insurance coverage, short notice periods, and unexpected narrowing of the insurance territory. Subjective unconscionability means that the insurance agent is aware of the circumstances essential to determine the probability of an insurance risk or the possibility to obtain such information. In this regard, Article 428 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation and the contra proferentem may prevent unfair contractual conditions and imbalance. Courts need to be granted the right to go beyond the plaintiff’s claims in order to evaluate the contract.
Direct injection ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry for the high-throughput determination of etomidate and etomidate acid in wastewater
Authors: Yuan Shuai , Xiao Yue , Luo Ruxin , Wang Xin , Xiang Ping
Published: April 2024

Etomidate (ET), a hypnotic agent used for the induction of anesthesia, is rapidly metabolized to etomidate acid (ETA) in the liver. Recently, ET has become one of the most serious alternative drugs of abuse in China. Therefore, an urgent need exists to develop a fast and convenient analysis method for monitoring ET. The current work presents a simple, fast, and sensitive direct injection method for the determination of ET and ETA in wastewater. After the optimization of the ultra-performance liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and sample filtration conditions, the method exhibited satisfactory limits of detection (1 ng/L) and good filtration loss. The validated method was successfully applied to determine the concentrations of ET and ETA in wastewater samples (n = 245) from several wastewater treatment plants in China. The concentrations of the targets in positive samples ranged from less than the lower limits of quantitation to 47.71 ng/L. The method can meet ET monitoring and high-throughput analysis requirements.
Influence of the Use of a Mixed Solution of Equal Amounts of Amyl Acetate, Acetone, and Ethanol on the Cleaning of Endodontic Sealer Residues on the Bond Strength of the Fiber Post Cementation System: A Laboratory Investigation
Authors: Oliveira Barros Antonia Patricia , Freitas Ana Paula Aparecida Raimundo Alves , Kokol Frederico Guilherme Otto , de Souza Elizangela Maria Pereira , Junior Adirson Jorge , de Melo Alencar Cristiane , de Andrade Marcelo Ferrarezi , Kuga Milton Carlos
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of different chemical solutions (ET, 95% ethanol, and ES, experimental solution of amyl acetate, acetone, and 95% ethanol) on the removal of epoxy-based sealer residues (AH, AH Plus Jet, or AD, Adseal) from the adhesive interface between root dentin and universal adhesive in post space third, after 6 months control.

Methods

Eighty bovine roots were prepared and randomly divided according to the sealer and cleaning solution: AH Plus Jet + 95% ethanol (AH+ET), Adseal + 95% ethanol (AD+ET), AH Plus Jet + experimental solution (AH+ES), Adseal + experimental solution (AD+ES). Scanning electron microscopy was used to assess the incidence of residue in the post space, and the data obtained were subjected to Kruskal-Wallis/Dunn tests (α=0.05). Bond strength was evaluated in push-out tests, and the data were subjected to ANOVA/Tukey analysis. The adhesive failure pattern was assessed using stereomicroscopy, and the data have been evaluated through incidence frequency.

Results

AH+ES and AD+ES showed lower residues incidence and higher bond strength values (p<0.05). Type 4 and 3 failures were observed in the cervical and middle thirds in the groups AH+ET, AD+ET, and AH+ES, AD+ES, respectively.

Conclusion

The experimental solution positively influenced the bond strength of the post space.