bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and safety of anlotinib combined with the STUPP regimen in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma: a multicenter, single-arm, phase II trial
Authors: Lai Shuzhen , Li Peijing , Liu Xiaohui , Liu Guihong , Xie Tieming , Zhang Xing , Wang Xiaoxuan , Huang Jing , Tang Yiqiang , Liu Zhigang , Shen Guoping , Li Chaoming , Lu Fangxiao , Wang Lei , Jiang Fagui , Sun Caixing , Chen Yuanyuan , Chen Ming
Published: March 2024

Objective: Glioblastomas are highly vascularized malignant tumors. We determined the efficacy and safety of the anti-angiogenic multi-kinase inhibitor, anlotinib, for a newly diagnosed glioblastoma. Methods: This multicenter, single-arm trial (NCT04119674) enrolled 33 treatment-naïve patients with histologically proven glioblastomas between March 2019 and November 2020. Patients underwent treatment with the standard STUPP regimen [fractionated focal irradiation in daily fractions of 1.8-2 Gy given 5 d/w × 6 w (total = 54-60 Gy)] or radiotherapy plus continuous daily temozolomide (TMZ) (75 mg/m2 of body surface area/d, 7 d/w from the first to the last day of radiotherapy), followed by 6 cycles of adjuvant TMZ (150–200 mg/m2 × 5 d during each 28-d cycle) plus anlotinib (8 mg/d on d 1–14 of each 3-w cycle for 2 cycles during concomitant chemoradiotherapy, 8 maximal cycles as adjuvant therapy, followed by maintenance at 8 mg/d. The primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS). Secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS) and adverse events (AEs). Results: Thirty-three patients received the planned treatment. The median PFS was 10.9 months (95% CI, 9.9–18.7 months) and the 12-month PFS rate was 48.5%. The median OS was 17.4 months (95% CI, 14.5–21.1 months) and the 12-month OS rate was 81.8%. The most common AEs included hypertriglyceridemia [58% (n = 19)], hypoalbuminemia [46% (n = 15)], and hypercholesterolemia [46% (n = 15)] during concurrent chemoradiotherapy and leukopenia [73% (n = 24)], hypertriglyceridemia [67% (n = 22)], and neutropenia [52% (n = 17)] during adjuvant therapy. Five patients discontinued treatment due to AEs. HEG1 (HR, 5.6; 95% CI, 1.3–23.7; P = 0.021) and RP1L1 alterations (HR, 11.1; 95% CI, 2.2–57.2; P = 0.004) were associated with a significantly shorter PFS. Conclusions: Anlotinib plus the STUPP regimen has promising anti-tumor activity against glioblastoma and manageable toxicity. HEG1 and RP1L1 alterations might be novel predictive biomarkers of the response to anlotinib.
Pengaruh Penambahan Kapasitor Bank terhadap Perbaikan Daya pada Direct On Line (DOL) Berbasis Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) di Motor Listrik 3 Phase
Authors: Prasetyono Rizki Noor , Mubarok Rizky , Sigitta Rito Cipta , Alfarikhi Muhammad Zidan , Nasrulloh Nasrulloh , Murdiantoro Randi Adzin
Published: March 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini mengetahui pengaruh penambahan kapasitor bank terhadap Perbaikan Daya pada Direct On Line (DOL) berbasis Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) di Motor Listrik 3 Phase. Mayoritas beban di industri memakai beban motor induksi 3 phase yang merupakan beban induktif. Keuntungan motor listrik 3 phase tersebut dan negara yang masih menyubsidi konsumsi listrik. Hal ini merupakan suatu indikasi setiap konsumen dapat melakukan perbaikan faktor daya dengan tujuan efisiensi daya. Penelitian yang digunakan adalah jenis kuantitatif dengan mengeksperimenkan penambahan kapasitor bank pada motor 3 phase. Melalui tahapan perancangan alat, pengujian alat pengambilan data faktor daya & efisiensi, analisis data dan penarikan kesimpulan.  Hasil penelitian penggunaan kapasitor bank berpengaruh pada perbaikan faktor daya yang ditunjukkan dari signifikasni 0,001 < 0,05 pada rangkaian DOL di motor listrik 3 fasa berbasis PLC. Diperkuat dengan nilai rata-rata cos phi sesudah penggunaan kapasitor bank memiliki nilai 0,912 yang artinya sudah sesuai standar PLN yaitu nilai 0,9. Cos phi mendekati angka 1 dapat dikatakan penggunaan listrik lebih efisien. Dapat dilihat dari nilai rata-rata efisiensi sebelum dan sesudah yaitu 68,29% menjadi 91,17% artinya mengalami peningkatan.
Model Decision Tree Forecasting Berbasis DHT22 pada Smart Hydroponic Microgreen
Authors: Hadi Charis Fathul , Yasi Ratna Mustika , Prasetyo Andiko
Published: March 2024

Sensor DHT22 diharuskan aktif selama 4 hari penuh, jika dilihat dari waktu rata-rata budidaya microgreen kacang hijau menggunakan smart hydroponic. Penggunaan sensor DHT22 dalam jangka waktu tertentu dapat mempengaruhi kestabilan jangka panjang dalam hal pembacaan suhu. Jika pembacaan DHT22 mulai tidak akurat, smart system tidak mampu bekerja maksimal. Peneliti mengusulkan sebuah sistem untuk menggantikan peran sensor tanpa mengurangi atau mengganggu kinerja dari smart system untuk mengurangi ketergantungan komponen elektronika seperti sensor suhu. Seiring kemajuan teknologi, terdapat salah satu model machine learning yang dapat diterapkan untuk menggantikan peran sensor yaitu prediksi suhu melalui forecasting. Algoritma forecasting yang digunakan adalah decision tree. Algoritma ini dipilih karena mampu memprediksi data hanya dengan satu jenis input data berupa waktu dengan proses pelatihan yang cukup cepat. Data latih dihasilkan dari perekaman data selama 4 hari pada smart hydroponic microgreen kacang hijau. Model akan dibuat menggunakan grid search cross validation dan feature scaling. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan channel 80 layak dipilih menjadi model prediksi. Prediksi suhu model decision tree forecasting menghasilkan nilai R-squared sebesar 0,870955 dan mean square error (MSE) sebesar 0,074171. Kedua nilai tersebut menunjukkan bahwa model cukup kuat dalam memprediksi suhu dan layak untuk diterapkan dalam memantau suhu smart hydroponic microgreen kacang hijau.
Sistem Pemantauan Suhu, Kelembapan, Cahaya, dan pH Air pada Rumah Walet Berbasis Internet of Things
Authors: Siagian Claudia Angelita , Nur Utomo Aulia Desy Aulia , Kresna A Iqsyahiro
Published: March 2024

Sarang walet merupakan ekspor dengan nilai ekonomis yang tinggi. Tetapi, bentuk sarang walet yang dihasilkan juga mempengaruhi harga pembelian, seperti sarang yang terlalu kering maupun bentuk yang dinilai tidak sempurna oleh pembeli. Umumnya di dalam rumah walet terdapat kriteria pemeliharaan yang harus dipenuhi oleh pembudidaya sarang walet salah satunya adalah optimal nya sebuah sirkulasi udara. Suhu yang ideal atau stabil harus berkisar antara 26-29°C dengan kelembapan 80-90%. Kriteria lainnya ialah cahaya, umumnya walet tinggal di gua sehingga walet menyukai suasana tempat denga cahaya mendekati gelap atau nilai 0 lux. Kriteria selanjutnya adalah pH air, dalam rumah walet terdapat kolam yang digunakan untuk menekan kelembapan, selain itu kolam air ini bisa digunakan oleh burung walet mandi ataupun minum, dari hal ini tentu pH air yang normal sangat dibutuhkan. Dari permasalahan yang ada maka, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memudahkan pembudidaya sarang walet dalam melakukan pemantauan suhu, kelembapan, cahaya, dan pH air di rumah walet menggunakan metode prototype, yang mana hasil monitoring dapat dipantau melalui website. Apabila suhu, kelembapan, cahaya, dan pH air tidak pada keadaan normal maka sistem akan memberikan notifikasi ke website pembudidaya sarang walet. Sistem ini menggunakan Internet of Things atau dikenal dengan IoT menggunakan NodeMCU ESP8266 agar dapat terhubung ke internet,selain itu penelitian ini juga menggunakan sensor DHT11 sebagai sensor yang digunakan untuk mengetahui besarnya suhu dan kelembapan pada rumah walet, sensor Light Dependent Resistor (LDR) untuk mengukur intensitas cahaya, dan modul pH air untuk mengukur tingkat asam atau basa dari air kolam di rumah walet, data dari sensor tersebut akan diteruskan ke web agar dapat dipantau oleh pembudidaya sarang walet. Berdasarkan penelitian yang sudah dilakukan, hasil pengujian selama 5 hari berturut-turut dengan jumlah sampel 1000 yang dilakukan pada siang hari dalam waktu 90 menit menghasilkan rata-rata 29,16 untuk suhu (normal), 78,6% untuk kelembaban (tidak normal), 0 atau gelap untuk cahaya (normal), dan ph 4,41(asam).
Mediation Effect of Job Satisfaction: Work Motivation and E-Government on Service Quality in the Government of Aceh Singkil, Indonesia
Authors: Frinaldi Aldri , Saputra Boni , Ali Embi Muhamad , Kusuma Habibie Dedi , Hashanah Fenni
Published: March 2024

Many studies have shown that public criticism of the low quality of public services has occurred everywhere, from top-level to lower-level government services. This circumstance is also possible in the regional Government of Aceh Singkil Regency. The Indonesian government, including Aceh Singkil Regency, used e-government—the use of technology for information and communication in government administration—to address the problem of poor public service. This article examines the effect of work motivation and quality of e-government on service quality by considering the mediating effects of employee satisfaction on employees. This type of research is quantitative associative by using a convenience sampling technique from a sample of 103 Civil Servants in the Government of Aceh Singkil Regency. Data was collected using a reliable and validated Likert scale questionnaire. The classical assumption test was then analyzed by The classical assumption test was subsequently examined through the statistical Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis using Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS), and the Sobel test was applied to analyzing the acquired data—additionally, reviews of the literature assisted in gathering the data process. The study’s results demonstrate a positive and significant influence on the work motivation variable, the partial effect of e-government quality on job satisfaction and service quality. There is no effect of job satisfaction on service quality. The job satisfaction variable, either directly or as a mediating variable, has yet to be able to contribute to service quality.
The Interference of Light As Photon Pair Interaction Mediated by Matter Under the Assumption of Alternative (“Classical”) Photon Paths in Multi-path Experiments
Authors: Tiefenbrunner Wolfgang
Published: March 2024

Light can interfere like a wave in a multi-path experiment, but it also has particle properties when interacting with matter. In a closer look, the interference pattern is created by many individual detections ("clicks"), which do not all occur simultaneously. An established assumption is therefore that a single light particle is capable of interfering with itself by superimposing all possibilities to get from the source to the detector. This is in stark contrast to our experience with macroscopic objects, which always "decide" in favour of only one of the alternative paths.In 2010, Jin et al. (Ref. 15) described an event-based model which allowed the authors to show that an interference pattern consisting of clicks can arise in a multi-path experiment even if photons, like macroscopic objects, only follow one path. To do this, photons must be able to transmit the information about their travelling duration to the detector and the detector must have a basic memory. A threshold function uses the message of several light quanta to decide whether a single detection is initiated, which is not the evidence for a single photon. In this "proof of principle", the authors do not claim that the detector function is a realistic one.In the present paper, this detector is replaced by a material consisting of ionizable molecules whose interaction with light takes place according to a modified version of Einstein's radiation laws. Based on this, a photon pair interaction mediated by matter takes place, which in a multi-path experiment generates an interference pattern of clicks at the detector, even if an arbitrary amount of time elapses between the individual detections. In the present model an interference pattern with minima that have less than half the intensity of the maxima is the result of a peculiar behaviour of the detector: In this case, the entirety of its electrons must be described as a unit (a “field”) with many equidistant energy levels. The results of a simulation are presented which enable the model to be tested in experiments.
Understand Factors Influencing the Development of the Social and Solidarity Economy in African countries:A Case Study in Rural Tunisia
Authors: MHADHBI Fatma
Published: March 2024

Despite the potential benefits of the SSE, its adoption remains relatively marginal, facing various challenges. This study explores the complexity of factors influencing the development of the social and solidarity economy (SSE) in African contexts, with a particular focus on the northwest region of Tunisia, through a discourse analysis, based on 136 interviewees, mostly farmers and other stakeholders. Firstly, this research highlights the crucial role of informal solidarity practices deeply rooted in Tunisian culture. Our survey shows that farmers' decision to engage in SSE initiatives is deeply rooted in historical mistrust and perceptions of failed cooperative experiences, as well as institutional weaknesses and psychosocial and behavior factors shaping the dynamics of SSE. These findings offer valuable insights into the development of SSE in Africa, emphasizing the importance of tailored approaches to foster sustainable community economic models.
7-O-Tyrosyl Silybin Derivatives as a Novel Set of Anti-prostate Cancer Compounds
Authors: Romanucci Valeria , Pagano Rita , Kandhari Kushal , Zarrelli Armando , Petrone Maria , Agarwal Chapla , Agarwal Rajesh , Di Fabio Giovanni
Published: March 2024

Silybin is a natural compound extensively studied for its hepatoprotective, neuroprotective and anti-cancer properties. Envisioning the enhancement of silybin potential by suitable modifications in its chemical structure, here, a series of new 7-O alkyl silybins derivatives were synthesized by Mitsunobu reaction starting from the silybins and tyrosol-based phenols, such as tyrosol (TYR, 3), 3-methoxytyrosol (MTYR, 4) and 3-hydroxytyrosol (HTYR, 5). This research sought to explore the antioxidant and anticancer properties of new eighteen derivatives and their mechanisms. In particular, the antioxidant properties of new derivatives outlined by DPPH assay, showed a very pronounced activity depending on the tyrosyl moiety (HTYR>MTYR>>TYR). A significant contribution of the HTYR moiety was observed for silybins and 2,3-dehydro-silybin based derivatives. According to the very potent antioxidant activity, 2,3-dehydro-silybin derivatives 15ab, 15a and 15b exerted the most potent anticancer activity in human prostate cancer PC-3 cells. Furthermore, flow cytometric analysis for cell cycle and apoptosis revealed that 15ab, 15a and 15b induce strong G1 phase arrest and increase late apoptotic population in PC-3 cells. Additionally, western blotting for apoptotic marker cleaved caspase-3 confirmed apoptosis induction by these silybin derivatives in PC-3 cells. These findings hold significant importance in the investigation of anticancer properties of silybin derivatives and strongly encourage swift investigation in pre-clinical models and clinical trials.
Neurofilament Light Chain in Systemic Amyloidosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Berends Milou , Nienhuis Hans , Adams David , Karam Chafic , Luigetti Marco , Polydefkis Michael , Reilly Mary , Sekijima Yoshiki , Hazenberg Bouke Pier
Published: March 2024

Peripheral and autonomic neuropathy are common disease manifestations in systemic amyloidosis. Neurofilament light chain (NfL), a neuron-specific biomarker, is released into the blood and cerebrospinal fluid after neuronal damage. This systematic review provides an overview on the value of NfL in early detection of neuropathy, central nervous system involvement, monitoring of neuropathy progression, and treatment effect in systemic amyloidosis. A literature search in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science was performed on 14-02-2024 for studies investigating NfL levels in patients with systemic amyloidosis and transthyretin gene variant (TTRv) carriers. Only studies containing original data were included. Included were twelve full-text articles and six abstracts describing 1604 participants: 298 controls and 1306 TTRv carriers or patients with or without polyneuropathy. Patients with polyneuropathy demonstrated higher NfL levels compared to healthy controls and asymptomatic carriers. Disease onset was marked by rising NfL levels. Following initiation of transthyretin gene-silencer treatment, NfL levels decreased and remained stable over an extended period. NfL is not an outcome biomarker, but an early and sensitive disease process biomarker for neuropathy in systemic amyloidosis. Therefore, NfL has potential to be used for early detection of neuropathy, monitoring treatment effect, and monitoring disease progression in patients with systemic amyloidosis.
Analysis of Factors Related to the Efficacy of Consciousness-Regaining Therapy for Prolonged Disorder of consciousness:A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wang Yan-Gang , Li Zhongzhen , Wu Yu-Zhang , Zhao Guang-Rui , Cheng Yifeng , Feng Keke , Yin Shao-Ya
Published: March 2024

To explore the relevant factors that affect the efficacy of consciousness-regaining therapy (CRT)for prolonged disorder of consciousness(pDOC),a retrospective analysis was conducted on the case data of 114 patients with pDOC admitted to department of functional neurosurgery of Tianjin Huanhu Hospital from January 2019 to January 2022. Basic information on the cases,data on pDOC disease assessment, consciousness-regaining therapy methods, and efficacy evaluation were collected. A total of 114 patients were grouped and compared based on the efficacy at the end of treatment. Among them, there were 61 cases in the ineffective group and 53 cases in the effective group. There was no statistically significant difference (P>0.05) between the two groups in terms of gender, age, etiology, acute cerebral herniation, emergency craniotomy surgery, emergency decompressive craniectomy, time from onset to start of consciousness-regaining therapy , and duration of consciousness-regaining therapy(P>0.05). However, there were statistically significant differences (P<0.05) in terms of secondary hydrocephalus, , consciousness-regaining therapy methods, CRS-R grading before treatment, and GOSE score at 6 months after treatment. Binary logistic regression analysis showed that the type of therapy (OR=0.169, 95% CI: 0.057-0.508) was a related factor affecting the efficacy of consciousness-regaining therapy (P<0.05).Compared with non-invasive therapy, personalized awakening therapy using various invasive consciousness-regaining therapy methods can help improve the efficacy of therapy for pDOC.
Efficient Solutions for Large-Scale Max-Cut Problems: A Hybrid Local Search Heuristic Approach and Comparative Analysis with Quantum Annealing
Authors: Wang Haibo , Alidaee Bahram , Sagbansua Lutfu
Published: March 2024

In this study, we address the formidable challenge of solving large-scale Max-Cut problems (MCP). We introduce a rapid computational procedure utilizing a hybrid 1-flip/r-flip local search heuristic. This innovative strategy significantly reduces the computational time required for MCP problems while consistently generating solutions of exceptional quality. The paper presents substantial computational insights, showcasing the effectiveness of our approach on very-large-scale Max-Cut instances with varying densities. Our proposed heuristic is rigorously evaluated by comparing its performance against a quantum annealing solver, leveraging a multi-start Tabu Search framework. The results underscore the potency of this unique combination as an efficient and effective solution for large-scale QUBO problems. Notably, our hybrid heuristic consistently delivers high-quality solutions within the stringent CPU time limits of 600 seconds, demonstrating its efficacy across Max-Cut instances ranging from 10,000 to 40,000 variables. This research contributes to advancing the state-of-the-art in large-scale QUBO problem-solving, offering a powerful and time-efficient approach with broad applicability.
Directional Relay SCADA-Based Upgrade for the Power Management Interface Improvement in Pumped Stored Energy
Authors: Remus Dobra , Rîșteiu Mircea , Avram Alexandru , Aldea Mihaela , Pasculescu Dragos , Micu Dan Doru , Claudia Candale , Buică Georgeta , Florin Samoila
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a novel approach to power management techniques in energy storage system (ESS) interoperability with the energy power system (EPS) by inserting a SCADA controlled directional protection relay for improving the mode switching sequence. According with latest European standards, all necessary measures for re-synchronization and reconnection for health work of the system must be taken. The proposed approach intends to improve the “interface” between storage systems and electric power grid by using a directional relay which provides interoperability improvement by automatic recognizing and differentiating the switching sequence of the mode of operation from the fault mode. Simulated results from a small scale electrical generating system are provided. The results demonstrate that the proposed power management solution is technically ideal to achieve high quality energy while retaining the stability of the power grid network. The interoperability of PHS systems integrated with the electric power grid usually leads to perturbations in terms of frequency of the generated voltage, and for improving it we designed an automatic treating and re-connecting software module. This work regards the importance of producing electricity from green and renewable energy sources, while retaining the stability and reliability of the power grid. ESS systems are widely used to help balancing of intermittent forms of load demand on the electrical power grid at specific key moments. In this article, the pumped hydro storage (PHS) technologies are proposed as an economical way to utilize smoothly the off-peak energy or surplus energy, by pumping water to a reservoir at a higher level. During peak load periods, the stored water is discharged through the reversible pump-turbine to generate electricity to meet the peak demand controlled by designed SCADA application.
Using the Theoretical-experiential Binomial for Educating AI-Literate Students
Authors: Modran Horia Alexandru , Ursuțiu Doru , Samoilă Cornel
Published: March 2024

In the dynamic landscape of modern education, characterized by an increasingly active involvement of IT technologies in learning, the imperative to transfer to students the skills necessary to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into the process represents an important goal. This paper presents a novel framework for knowledge transfer, diverging from traditional programming language-centric approaches by integrating PSoC 6 microcontroller technology. This framework establishes a cyclical learning cycle encompassing theoretical fundamentals and practical experimentation, fostering AI literacy at the edge. Through a structured combination of theoretical instruction and hands-on experimentation, students develop proficiency in understanding and harnessing AI capabilities. Emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity, this approach equips students with the tools to navigate the complexities of real-world AI applications effectively. By leveraging PSoC 6 as an educational tool, a new generation of individuals is efficiently cultivated with essential AI skills. These individuals are adept at leveraging AI technologies to address societal challenges and drive innovation, thereby contributing to long-term sustainability initiatives. Specific strategies for experiential learning, curriculum recommendations, and results of knowledge application are presented, aimed at preparing students to excel in a future where AI will be omnipresent and indispensable.
A Study on Innovation Factor Allocation Efficiency and Spatial Correlation Based on Regions Along the Belt and Road in China
Authors: Liu Panpan , Han Guanghui , Yang Haichao , Li Xiaobo
Published: March 2024

The level of development of the innovation factor plays a crucial role in supporting the high-quality development of China's economy. To advance the development of regional innovation factor allocation efficiency along the Belt and Road. This article introduces the super-efficiency SBM-DEA-Malmquist model for the static and dynamic analysis of innovation factor allocation efficiency in 17 provinces along the Belt and Road from 2012 to 2021. The Moran index model analyzes the spatial correlation. The results show that: (1) The overall innovation factor allocation efficiency along the Belt and Road is not high, and there are obvious differences among different regions. The eastern region is the highest compared to other regions. (2) According to the efficiency decomposition results, pure technical efficiency is the main reason for the low innovation factor allocation efficiency. (3) Through the Malmquist index and decomposition index, it is found that pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency are key factors in improving technical efficiency. (4) The analysis of spatial correlation reveals a strong spatial agglomeration feature among the provinces along the Belt and Road. The innovation factor allocation efficiency is mainly manifested in the L-L type. Finally, according to the analysis results, suggestions and policies are put forward to improve the innovation factor allocation efficiency in the regions along the Belt and Road.
TLC-Densitometric Method for Determination of Metronidazole and Tinidazole in Pharmaceutical Preparations
Authors: Pyka-Pająk Alina
Published: March 2024

An easy and short-time TLC-densitometric method was developed for the separation of metronidazole, secnidazole, ornidazole, tinidazole, and 2-methyl-5-nitroimidazole and for the determination of metronidazole and tinidazole in Metronidazole Polpharma and Tinidazolum Polpharma tablets. Analyzes were performed on chromatographic plates precoated with silica gel 60F254 using the optimal mobile phase: chloroform + methanol + diethylamine in a volume ratio of 9:1:1. The method has been validated. The intraday and interday precision values for the three different concentrations ranged from 0.99% to 1.48% and 0.89% to 1.76%, and the precision values ranged from 1.13% to 2.48% and 0.95% to 2.49% for metronidazole and tinidazole, respectively. The limit of quantification (LOQ) was 0.036 and 0.066 µg/spot for metronidazole and tinidazole, respectively. The mean recovery was 103.1% and 100.6% for metronidazole and tinidazole, respectively. The content of metronidazole and tinidazole in tablets in relation to the content declared by the manufacturer was 101.3% and 99.8%, respectively. The obtained results were verified using the pharmacopoeial method. The presented method is fast, sensitive, precise, selective, accurate and robust. It allows for the analysis of several samples on one chromatography plate at the same time.
The Role of QRS Complex and ST-Segment in Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events Prediction: A 6-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Maletin Srdjan , Petrovic Milovan , Stojšić-Milosavljević Anastazija , Miljković Tatjana , Milovančev Aleksandra , Petrović Ivan , Milosavljević Isidora , Balenović Ana , Čanković Milenko
Published: March 2024

Background: As a relatively high number of ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) patients develop major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), our aim was to determine the significance, and possible predictive value of QRS complex width and ST-segment elevation. Methods: Our patient sample included 200 PCI-treated STEMI patients, which were divided into two groups, based on the duration of symptoms: (I) less than 6 hours, and (II) 6-12 hours. For every patient, ECG was performed at 6 different time points. Long-term follow-up lasted 6 years from the STEMI onset. Statistical analysis was performed. Results: The mean age was 60.6±11.39 years, and 142 were male. Wider QRS complex, more pronounced ST-segment elevation, and more frequently absent ST-segment resolution were more common in the second group. Presentation of MACE was more frequent in this group. An increase of pre-PCI QRS complex width by 1 msec increases the risk of 6-year MACE by 3%, and an increase in pre-PCI ST-segment elevation by 1mm increases the risk of 6-year MACE by 3.26 times. Conclusion: To the best of our understanding, this study represents a pioneer research that utilized these ECG elements in the context of predicting a 6-year MACE. A wider QRS complex and a more pronounced ST-segment elevation were associated with longer total ischemic time. More research is needed to confirm these findings.
Mechanical Properties of Aeolian Sand Concrete made from Alkali-Treated Aeolian Sand and Zeolite Powder
Authors: Wei Si li , Yao Quan zhan , Li Hao , Guo Long hao , Li Yue
Published: March 2024

This study utilises NaOH to treat composite cementitious materials containing aeolian sand and zeolite powders, which were used to replace 50% of the cement in aeolian-sand concrete (ASC). The mechanical properties of treated ASC considerably improved, especially when the NaOH dosage was 4% by mass. After curing this sample (denoted as AAZC-4) for 28 d, its compressive strength improved by 17.2% and its split tensile was increased by 16.3%. Potassium feldspar and montmorillonite in zeolite powder and SiO2 in the sand were decomposed by OH− and combined with other elements to generate various silicate gels and A-type potassium zeolite crystals inside the concrete. Microscopic examination showed that the gels and crystals intertwined to fill the pores, decreasing (increasing) the percentage of large (small) pores, thus optimising the pore structure. This substantially improved the mechanical properties of ASC. Freeze–thaw salt-intrusion tests showed that the extent of mass loss, degree of damage and loss of compressive strength of AAZC-4 were similar to those of ordinary concrete but were reduced by 36.8%, 19% and 52.1%, respectively, compared with those of ASC. Therefore, AAZC-4 has sustainable working performance in the chloride ion permeable environment in cold and arid areas.
The Unknown Epithelial and Mesenchymal States Cannot Support Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition as a Meaningful Concept
Authors: Cao Ying
Published: March 2024

Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is defined as a cellular process during which epithelial cells acquire mesenchymal phenotypes and behavior following the downregulation of epithelial features. EMT and its reversed process, the mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET), and the special form of EMT, the endothelial-mesenchymal transition (EndMT), have been extensively investigated in developmental biology and pathology. More than a half-century of EMT study has made it a large research field and a mainstream concept. However, discrepancies and disputes over EMT and EMT research have also grown over time. Particularly, neither the epithelial and mesenchymal states/properties nor their regulatory networks nor specific markers have been defined, rendering the EMT, MET and EndMT concepts groundless. EMT and MET effects represented by the change in cell shapes or adhesiveness or symbolized by EMT factors are biased interpretation of the overall change in cellular property and regulatory networks during developmental process and cancer progression. The true meaning of EMT effects in some developmental and pathological processes, such as fibrosis, needs re-evaluation. But the core EMT factors are actually a few components of the regulatory networks of neural stemness, which determines tumorigenicity and pluripotency. The EMT effects in cancer progression and neural crest formation are wrong attribution of the role of neural stemness during cancer progression and the cell-intrinsic property of neural crest cells to the unknown mesenchymal state. It is time to reassess the significance of EMT and its related concepts in scientific research.
Molecular Pathways of Vulnerability Carotid Plaques at Risk for Ischemic Stroke: A Narrative Review
Authors: Miceli Giuseppe , Basso Maria Grazia , Pintus Chiara , Pennacchio Andrea Roberta , Cocciola Elena , Cuffaro Mariagiovanna , Profita Martina , Rizzo Giuliana , Tuttolomondo Antonino
Published: March 2024

The concept of vulnerable carotid plaques is pivotal in understanding the pathophysiology of is-chemic stroke secondary to large-artery atherosclerosis. At the macroscopic evaluation, vulnera-ble plaques are characterized by one or more of the following features: microcalcification, neo-vascularization, lipid-rich necrotic core (LRNC), intraplaque hemorrhage (IPH), thin fibrous caps, plaque surface ulceration, huge dimension determining stenosis, and plaque rupture. Recognizing these macroscopic characteristics is crucial to estimating the risk of cerebrovascular events, also in case of non-significant (less than 50%) stenosis. Inflammatory biomarkers, such as cytokines and adhesion molecules, lipid-related markers like oxidized low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and proteolytic enzymes capable of degrading extracellular matrix components are among the key molecules that will be scrutinized for their associative roles in plaque instability. Through their quantification and evaluation, these biomarkers reveal intricate molecular cross-talking govern-ing plaque inflammation, rupture potential, and thrombogenicity. Current evidence demonstrates that plaque vulnerability phenotypes are multiple and heterogeneous and are associated with as many highly complex molecular pathways that determine the activation of an immune-mediated cascade that culminates in thromboinflammation. This narrative review provides a comprehen-sive analysis of current knowledge on molecular biomarkers expressed by symptomatic carotid plaques. It explores the association of these biomarkers with the structural and compositional at-tributes that characterize vulnerable plaques
Experimental and Numerical Investigation of Prepreg-RTM Co-Curing Molding Composite Bolted T-joint under Bending Load
Authors: Zhang Tao , Luo Zhitao , Li Kenan , Cheng Xiaoquan
Published: March 2024

A set of polymer composite bolted T-joints with novel configuration consisting of internal skeleton and external skin was fabricated using a prepreg-RTM co-curing molding process. Experiments were conducted to study their mechanical properties under bending load. A finite element model with a polymer resin area between the skin and skeleton was established and verified by the experimental results. Then, the damage propagation process and failure mechanism of the joint and the influence of three factors related to the layer characteristics of the skin and skeleton were investigated by the validated models. The results show that the bending stiffness and the yield limit load of the novel composite T-joint are 0.81 times and 1.65 times that of the 2A12 aluminum T-joint respectively, while at only 55.4% of its weight. The damage of the joint initiates within the resin area and leads to a degradation of the joint bending performances. The preferred stacking sequence of the skeleton is [0/+45/90/-45]ns when primarily subjected to bending loads. The decrease in bending performances is within 5% with the inclining angle of the skeleton less than 12 degrees. The more layers of 90° in the skin, the better bending performances of the joints, while the more layer of 0°, the poorer bending performances.
ResNet152-U-Net: Transfer Learning for the Semantic Segmentation of Forest Restoration Site Using Aerial Images
Authors: Son Eunhee , Ha Ui Rin , Seong Hojin , Park Yoonsun , Song Jungeun , Kim Hyungho
Published: March 2024

Accurate detection of forest restoration sites using deep learning is crucial for effective ecosystem management, optimizing reforestation efforts, and ensuring environmental sustainability. While various deep learning-based systems have been developed for this purpose, the influence of different neural network architectures on model performance during the identification of forest restoration sites remains underexplored. This study aimed to address this gap by exploring the optimal methodology for extracting and classifying candidate sites for forest restoration based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs), specialized for image recognition. Four categories—arable land, road and barren, quarry, and forest—were defined as candidate sites for forest restoration. A dataset comprising 17,043 samples was divided into training (11,929) and validation (5,114) sets at a ratio of 7:3 for model learning. Model accuracy was evaluated using pixel accuracy (PA) and mean intersection over union (mean IoU). The Resnet152-U-Net model demonstrated a pixel accuracy of 95.2% and a mean IoU of 61.3%, indicating excellent performance in extracting candidate sites for forest restoration. This approach offers spatial and temporal advantages over conventional field surveys or aerial image-based assessments, potentially serving as valuable data for selecting future forest restoration sites.
Perception of Selected Factors on the Sustainability of SMEs: Empirical Study from Visegrad Group Countries
Authors: Hudáková Mária , Cúg Juraj , Karácsony Peter , Petráková Zora , Dvorský Ján , Pietrzak Michał Bernard
Published: March 2024

The aim of the article is to verify differences in the perception of selected factors of sustainability among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Central Europe. The subjects of analysis are factors such as corporate social responsibility (CSR), business risk sources (market, financial, personnel, and operational), reputation and social media, national support, social changes, and crisis events in business. The questionnaire was completed by 1,090 SMEs from the business environments of Visegrad Group countries. Statistical hypotheses were verified using Z-scores for two population properties. The most negatively perceived factors among owners and managers in the SME segment are national support and legislative changes. The most positively perceived factor is reputation and social media. The country of doing business is a significant factor. The perception of crisis events in business is most negative among Czech SMEs. More than 80% of Hungarian SMEs perceive their companies as sustainable. In comparison with Slovak and Polish SMEs, Hungarian perceptions are more positive in the context of sustainability. The country of doing business is the strongest factor in evaluating CSR indicators. The positive perception of CSR in Czech SMEs (43.9%) is lower than in other countries.
Frequency of Gene Polymorphisms in Admixed Venezuelan Women with Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: Microsomal Epoxy Hydroxylase (rs1051740) and Enos (rs1799983)
Authors: Peña Maria Joahanna , De Sanctis Claudia Valentina , de Sanctis Juan Bautista , Garmendia Jenny
Published: March 2024

Recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL) affects around 2 % of women of reproductive age. Primary RPL is defined by ≥2 pregnancy losses and no normal birth delivery. In secondary RPL, the losses are after a normal pregnancy and delivery. Most cases have no clear aetiology, although primary cases are the most complex. Several gene polymorphisms have been associated with RPL. Some polymorphisms are increased in women of Asian or Caucasian race. In admixed RPL populations, the information on possible genetic links is scarce and contradictory. The study aimed to assess the frequency of two SNP in different enzymes involved in medical conditions observed during pregnancy. Microsomal epoxy hydrolase (mEPH) is involved in detoxifying xenobiotics. It is present in ovaries, and it is hormonally regulated. The endothelial nitric oxide synthase forms nitric oxide from arginine and is involved in vascular tone. Two SNPs, rs1051740 and rs1799983, were assessed. The study included 26 controls and 63 primary RPL patients. Significant differences were observed in the frequencies of both SNP (p<0.05). The frequency of mutated alleles was higher in patients. Double mutated homozygotes were encountered only in RLP patients (p<0.05). Genetic polymorphisms rs1051740 and rs1799983 may be involved in primary RPL in the Venezuelan admix population. Genetic studies could provide crucial information on the aetiology of primary RPL.
Guidelines for the Waste Management Development Leading to Mahasarakham University Becoming a Green University
Authors: Phrophayak Julalak , Techarungruengsakul Rapeepat , Khotdee Mathinee , Thuangchon Sattawat , Ngamsert Ratsuda , Prasanchum Haris , Sivanpheng Ounla , Kangrang Anongrit
Published: March 2024

Continuity of activities and projects are important for sustainably developing organizations, especially universities. The purpose of this research study is to find university development guidelines regarding waste management according to the green university ranking criteria for sustainable developments by studying and collecting the data covering the last five years (2019 - 2023) of Mahasarakham University. We also analyzed and synthesized lessons learned from the details of the operations and the factors involved in successes while comparing and providing suggestions for the operations in the next year. It was found that waste management that resulted in continuous developments that achieved the goals of Mahasarakham University consisted of the five guidelines. (1) Making green university policies and using them as the (key performance index) KPI of the divisions and also announcing the university's waste management policies by applying the principles of 3R (Reuse-Reduce-Recycle). (2) Allocating the budgets supporting the projects' activities according to the evaluation criteria. (3) Student and personnel participation as well as the mechanisms used by the committees from various administrative divisions such as Student Council, Student Association and clubs to drive the operations. (4) Identifying the main responsible individuals and committees for the green university who communicated and drove the operations while collecting, analyzing and preparing the data. (5) Follow-ups and evaluations of the project's activities with the Plan-Do-Check-Act (PDCA) processes for continuous and sustainable developments and improvements leading to the green university. With the above operations, Mahasarakham University's waste management scores of the six indices during 2019 - 3023 increased annually as follows: 900, 900, 1050, 1275 and 1350.
Optimal Scheduling of Integrated Energy System considering Hydrogen Blending Gas and Demand Response
Authors: Zheng Zijie , Xiwang Abuduwayiti , Sun Yufeng
Published: March 2024

In the context of carbon neutrality and carbon peaking, in order to achieve low carbon emissions and promote the efficient utilization of wind energy, hydrogen energy as an important energy carrier is proposed to mix hydrogen and natural gas to form hydrogen enriched compressed natu-ral gas (HCNG). It is also injected into the natural gas pipeline network to realize the transmission and utilization of hydrogen energy. At the same time, the participation of demand response is considered, the load peak and trough period is adjusted, and large-scale consumption of renewa-ble energy and the reduction of carbon emissions are realized. First of all, a fine model of hydro-gen production and hydrogen use equipment is established to analyze the impact of adding hy-drogen mixing on the economy and low-carbon of the system. With green certificates and demand response, the utilization rate of hydrogen energy is improved to further explore the energy utiliza-tion rate and emission reduction capacity of the system. Secondly, on the basis of modeling, the optimal scheduling strategy is proposed with the sum of energy purchase cost, equipment opera-tion cost, carbon emission cost, wind curtailment cost and green certificate income as the lowest objective function. Considering the constraints such as hydrogen blending ratio and flexible load ratio of the pipeline network, a low-carbon economic scheduling model of hydrogen mixed natu-ral gas was established. The model was linearized and solved by using MATLAB and CPLEX solver. By comparing different scenarios, the superiority of the model and the effectiveness of the strategy are verified.
High-throughput Analysis of Department-Specific Dynamic Patterns of Bacterial Communities and Antibiotic Resistance in the Hospital Indoor Environments
Authors: Yang Qing , Zhang Miao , Sun Yuhong , Zhao Bixi , Cheng Zhanwen , Chen Liming , Zhong Zhenfeng , Ye Yuhui , Xia Yu
Published: March 2024

The hospital indoor environment plays a significant role in shaping the microbial exposures that humans encounter. Resistance to antibiotics is one of the mechanisms employed by bacteria to develop resilience against stress in indoor environments. The extensive usage of antibiotics has been a key factor in driving changes in the ecological function of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) and their acquisition by pathogenic bacteria. By integrating the 16S rRNA Illumina sequencing and high throughput-qPCR approaches with water and air dust samples across seven departments at Peking University Shenzhen Hospital, China, this study yielded intriguing findings regarding the department-specific variation, transmission, and correlation of bacteria, ARGs and MGEs within the hospital indoor environment. One notable observation was that the seasonal variation played a vital role in shaping the bacterial composition in the overall hospital indoor environment across seven studied departments. Nevertheless, a similar significant seasonal impact was only observed in the blood test room and emergency departments, rather than in the other five departments. Another intriguing finding was the correlation between ARGs and MGEs abundance. This correlation was evident in the overall hospital indoor environment, which was conversely not found in the emergency, pneumology and gynecology departments. Additionally, while there was no significant relationship that occurred between bacterial communities and ARGs/MGEs within the hospital, the gynecology department demonstrated a close link between bacterial communities and the presence of ARGs/MGEs. Notably, the gynecology department also stood out as an important source of bacteria and ARGs/MGEs for other departments. This study underscores the need for careful surveillance and monitoring of antibiotic resistance, particularly in Legionella spp. in man-made water systems. The findings also show the importance of monitoring and understanding the genetic elements such as Tp614 involved in gene transfer and recombination, as well as their impact on antimicrobial treatment efficacy.
Influence of Specimen Size on Compressive Strength of Wood
Authors: Zhao Chuan , Liu Degui , Zhang Chuntao , Li Yanyan , Wang Yuhao
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the impact of specimen size on the mechanical properties of wood, specifically focusing on compression strength, elastic modulus, and Poisson's ratio. Compression tests were conducted using three different specimen sizes (20mm×20mm×30mm, 40mm×40mm×60mm, 60mm×90mm×90mm) in the longitudinal, radial, and tangential directions. Mechanical parameters, failure mechanisms, load-displacement curves, and stress-strain relationships were systematically analyzed for each size. The study also evaluated the influence of specimen size on the accuracy of finite element numerical simulations by utilizing the obtained mechanical parameters. The results reveal a significant correlation between compressive strength and specimen size, indicating a decrease in compressive strength with increasing specimen size. Conversely, elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio exhibit less sensitivity to variations in specimen size. Notably, parameters derived from small-sized specimens (20mm×20mm×30mm) exhibited substantial errors, while those obtained from medium-sized (40mm×40mm×60mm) and large-sized specimens (60mm×90mm×90mm) demonstrated greater reliability, providing precise results in finite element numerical simulations.