bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on multi-source data fusion target detection algorithm based on adaptive multi-scale and dynamic feature extraction
Authors: liu LIU Peng , su SU Jianqiang , li LI Yanming
Published: May 2024

To solve the problem of LiDAR's low accuracy in detecting similar objects and distant small targets, we designs a complementary 3D object detection network for cameras and lidar, the Multi-scale Dynamic Feature Voxel to Point (MDVP-RCNN). MDVP-RCNN is a two-stage 3D object detection network that uses point clouds as nodes, integrating point cloud features and image information onto the point cloud. In the first stage of MDVP-RCNN, the raw point cloud is downsampled to a fixed number of key points via Farthest Point Sampling (FPS), then sparse convolutions and deformable convolutions are used as the backbone network for voxel feature extraction. A dual-channel attention mechanism is introduced in the bird's-eye view (BEV), sequentially learning the essential characteristics of the pseudo-2D image and compensating for the lost features during the 2Dization of the point cloud. In the second stage, a feature aggregation module combines the color information of the image with the point cloud information in a weighted manner. Experimental results show that the network performs excellently on small targets, with Average Precision (AP) of 61.76%, 67.66%, and 82.36% respectively achieved for pedestrian, cyclist, and car.Code is available at https://github.com/3623687277/MDVP-RCNN
Width-Dependent Growth of Atomically Thin Quantum Nanoribbons
Authors: Harutyunyan Avetik , Li Xufan , Wyss Samuel , Yanev Emanuil , Li Qing-Jie , Wu Shuang , Sun Yongwen , Unocic Raymond , Stage Joseph , Strasbourg Matthew , Sassi Lucas , Zhu Yingxin , Li Ju , Yang Yang , Hone James , Borys Nicholas , Schuck P James
Published: May 2024

Nanoribbons (NRs) of atomic layer transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) can boost the rapidly emerging field of quantum materials owing to their width-dependent phases and electronic properties. However, the controllable downscaling of width by direct growth and the underlying mechanism remain elusive. Here, we demonstrate the vapor-liquid-solid growth of single crystal of single layer NRs of a series of TMDs (MeX2: Me=Mo, W; X=S, Se) under chalcogen vapor atmosphere, seeded by pre-deposited and respective transition metal-alloyed nanoparticles that also control the NR width. We found linear dependence of growth rate on supersaturation, known as a criterion for continues growth mechanism, which decreases with decreasing of NR width driven by the Gibbs-Thomson effect. The NRs show width-dependent photoluminescence and strain-induced quantum emission signatures with up to ~90% purity of single photons. We propose the path and underlying mechanism for width-controllable growth of TMD NRs for applications in quantum optoelectronics.
Estimation of Several Immunological Parameters in Patients with Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) and Herpes in Hilla Province
Authors: Obaid Rasha Fadhel , Ramadan Ghazi Mohamad , Alkhozai Ziad M.F , AlHuchaimi Sundus Nsaif , Kadhum Samah Ahmed , Ewadh Ruqaya Munther
Published: May 2024

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) causes chickenpox syndrome and infection of shingles (herpes zoster). A case-control study was conducted to analyze the serum levels of cytokines (IL-17, IL-22, and TNF), which are involved in cellular and humoral immunity, as well as the serum levels of anti-VZV IgG and IgM antibodies. This study aimed to determine the extent of activation of both cellular and humoral immunity in these patients compared to that in the control group. In this study, serum cytokines (IL-17, IL-22, and TNF), as well as IgG and IgM, were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent test (ELISA). The concentrations of cytokines in the VZV virus and herpesvirus supernatant groups were significantly greater than those in the control group. Our results confirmed the activation of the dominant immune system, which includes both humoral immunity and cell-mediated immunity. The levels of cytokines involved in cellular and humoral immunity continued to increase. These results support widespread activation of the immune system, which includes both cellular and humoral immunity, suggesting that a definite diagnosis is useful for determining patient prognosis
Survey of production characteristics and performance of small-scale carp aquaculture systems in Bangladesh
Authors: Gasparatos Alexandros , Dompreh Eric Brako , Wang Quanli , Lam Rodolfo Dam , Barman Benoy , Su Jie , Rossignoli Cristiano
Published: May 2024

This Data Descriptor contains a dataset with the production characteristics and socioeconomic performance of small-scale carp aquaculture systems in Bangladesh. The dataset was collected through a structured household survey with 4,540 producers from 54 upazilas (analogous to counties) across Bangladesh. Study upazilas were systematically selected to represent both locations with substantial carp production currently and locations with such future potential. Respondents were randomly selected through carp producer lists in each study upazila. Information about the production characteristics includes farm/pond sizes, fish species, production technologies, feed/seed use, and aquaculture expenditures, among others. Information about the performance includes fish output and sales, as well as household income, poverty and food security, among others. This dataset can be valuable to researchers, practitioners and policy-makers that wish to explore the heterogeneity and differentiation of small-scale aquaculture production systems and the factors affect their performance in Bangladesh and other developing countries.
Cost-Effective Deep Learning Model for Seizure Detection from One Channel: Channel-Independent Classifier.
Authors: Benchikh Abdelhafid , Benali Radhwane
Published: May 2024

Accurate and efficient seizure detection in epilepsy patients is a critical goal for improving their quality of life. In this study, our primary objective was to explore the feasibility of reducing the number of EEG channels required for reliable seizure detection. We accomplished this by training and verifying our model exclusively on data from the first channel of the Children's Hospital Boston dataset (CHB-MIT). Our model consistently achieved accuracies ranging from 89–99.52% across all 23 channels, demonstrating the potential for accurate seizure detection using data from a single channel. This highlights the potential for cost-effective headsets for seizure onset detection solutions in the future, which could greatly benefit individuals living with epilepsy.
Examining Return to Play Protocols for ACL Injuries using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF): A Rapid Review
Authors: Jain Varun , Tomas Vanessa , Rosenbaum Peter
Published: May 2024

Purpose
Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are a common occurrence, especially in sports. These injuries require a comprehensive return-to-play (RTP) protocol that is suited for the individual. This review aims to assess existing RTP protocols for ACL injuries, using the WHO’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework. The objective is to identify trends and gaps in RTP protocols based on the domains of the ICF framework.
Methods
A rapid review was conducted from the following databases: Embase, MEDLINE, and CENTRAL. Studies were screened using Covidence and reviewed using National Collaborating Centre for Methods and Tools (NCCMT) guidelines. The analysis examined the included return-to-play protocols and assessed them through the lens of the ICF framework.
Results
Fifteen studies were included in the review. Based on the protocols of the included studies, three key trends were observed: 1) Focus on functioning and disability rather than contextual factors, 2) Player’s psychological needs are considered in only a few studies (n = 4), and 3) Most return-to-play protocols were fairly rigid.
Conclusion
This review highlights key trends and gaps in existing RTP protocols for ACL injuries. The protocols can be improved by aligning themselves with the ICF, specifically through the inclusion of environmental and personal factors. This could potentially pave the way for a standardized ACL RTP protocol.
Level of Evidence: II
Factors Influencing the Performance of Elementary School Teachers: a Systematic Review
Authors: Debbarma Daniel , Momin Prof Nikme SC
Published: May 2024

Students' learning outcomes are contingent upon the performance of their instructors, and teachers' performance is impacted by several aspects related to their teaching profession. Since middle school is the time when a child learns, grows, and develops, elementary school instructors are quite important in shaping this student's character. Students in middle school will engage on experiential learning in the arts, social sciences, sciences, and humanities with NEP, 2020. This article does a systematic assessment of the literature in an effort to investigate how different aspects of elementary school teachers' careers affect their performance. The review covers research publications that were indexed in the WoS, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were published between 2000 and 2023. Using the search terms "Teacher Performance" AND "Elementary," 251 research papers were found for the first phase of the study. To ensure the quality of the review, we disregarded press articles and papers written in languages other than English. We chose 52 research publications for this review by adhering to the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocols (PRISMA) declaration after carefully evaluating each record in light of the study's goal and scope. Five key elements were identified by the study as being connected to teachers' successful performance in the areas of principal leadership, work environment, teacher motivation, training and development, and school resources. These elements play a critical role in developing more dedicated and effective instructors who will have a greater influence on the learning outcomes of the pupils. This study also gives the impression that there are plenty of options to improve instructors' performance in the teaching profession. On the other hand, the research was confined to a small number of databases and a short time period, which may indicate areas for further investigation.
Controlled sulfuric acid alcoholysis of cellulose in a medium of primary monohydric alcohols (СnH2n+1OH, n=5-8) for obtaining cellulose nanocrystals
Authors: Surov Oleg V. , Voronova Marina I.
Published: May 2024

The lack of a universal method for isolating cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) has encouraged researchers to look for new methods and approaches as alternatives to traditional sulfuric acid hydrolysis. Moreover, acid alcoholysis has long been actively used in cellulose depolymerization processes to obtain a variety of alkyl glycosides and further alcoholysis products. In the present article, the authors continue their earlier research on the synthesis of CNCs by cellulose alcoholysis in an alcoholic environment. In this work, CNCs were obtained by controlled sulfuric acid alcoholysis of sulfate cellulose in a medium of primary monohydric alcohols (СnH2n+1OH, n = 5–8). A maximum CNC yield of 60% was achieved with pentanol-1 at a sulfuric acid concentration of 50%. The paper showed that in descending order of both the acid concentration corresponding to the maximum CNC yield and the yield itself, the alcohols studied can be arranged as follows: pentanol-1, hexanol-1, heptanol-1, and octanol-1. For 1-octanol, the maximum CNC yield was 20% at an acid concentration of 40%. The physicochemical properties of the isolated CNCs were studied. No surface alkylation of the synthesized CNCs was found to occur during cellulose alcoholysis in the media of the alcohols studied, as the properties of the CNCs, in general, were similar to those of CNCs obtained by standard sulfuric acid hydrolysis.
COGNET-AMO: Personalized Prescription Recommendation using Attention over Medical Order Information
Authors: FengGao  , nazhao  , ShanLu
Published: May 2024

Prescription recommendation is widely discussed in smart healthcare research and applications. Current recommendation systems focus on mining structured data such as lists of diagnostic and surgical codes in patient records, without considering combining textual descriptions from Medical Orders. However, medical orders typically provide a more concise and important description of the patient, which reflects the doctor’s prescribing in tentions. Meanwhile, such information is also useful for building patient profiles and making recommendations based on profile similarities. In this paper, we propose a novel Conditional Generation Net with Attention over Medical Orders for Personalized Prescription Recom mendation (COGNET-AMO). COGNET-AMO employs an attention mechanism to model the patient’s health status with a focus on chief complaints and other important information in medical orders. Then, it constructs a patient case library that clusters patients based on their similarities over medical order information and Electronic Health Records. Finally, it combines them to generate more personalized and accurate prescription recommendations. COGNET-AMO is evaluated on the public MIMIC-III dataset, and the experimental results indicate that it can achieve 7%, 5%, 4% and 8% relative improvements than state-of-the-art approaches in Jaccard, PRAUC, F1, and average precision
Interconnections between local Schumann resonances and episodes of kidney disease
Authors: Nevoit Ganna , Stankuviene Asta , Jaruševičius Gediminas , McCraty Rollin , Landauskas Mantas , Potyazhenko Maksim , Bumblyte Inga Arune , Vainoras Alfonsas
Published: May 2024

The aim of the study was to evaluate the interconnections between local Schumann resonances of the Earth’s magnetic field and episodes of kidney disease. Materials and Methods: Study participants included 716 males and 624 females who had episodes of kidney disease during the period of 1 January 2021 to 31 December 2021 and attended the Department of Nephrology at the Hospital of Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kauno klinikos. Time varying magnetic field data was collected at the magnetometer site located in Lithuania. Results and Conclusions: The study results support the hypothesis that the Earth’s magnetic field has a relationship between the number of nephrology patient hospitalizations per week and the average weekly local Schumann resonances strength in different frequency ranges. Working hypotheses are proposed for the mechanisms of the influence of the Earth’s electromagnetic field on kidney function: а) quantum mechanical features of the atomic composition of renal tissue molecules determine a kidney-specific reaction; b) cyclotron resonance mechanism; c) resonant response of cells of morphological structures of kidney tissue to external bioactive frequencies in the range of 6-8 Hz; d) mechanism of indirect influence of blood as a magnetically saturated medium.
Pomegranate leaves, buds, and flowers: phytochemical, antioxidant, and comparative solvent analyzes
Authors: Tekin Zehra , Kucukbay F.Zehra
Published: May 2024

Punica granatum L. possesses significant nutritional and medicinal potential. Its pharmacological activities have been investigated, but no comparative evaluation has been reported regarding the effect of different extraction solvents on the phytochemical content and antioxidant activity of its leaf, bud, and flower extracts.
This research involved seven various solvents, namely methanol, ethanol, water, acidified methanol, acidified ethanol, acidified water, and hexane. A set of experiments made it possible to define the effect of each of these solvents on the contents of phenolics, flavonoids, flavanols, flavonols, anthocyanins, and tannins, as well as on the antioxidant activity of pomegranate leaf, bud and flower tissues. The research objective was to identify the optimal solvent for the most effective extraction of the abovementioned functional compounds. The antioxidant activity tests involved DPPH free radical scavenging, metal chelating, iron (III) reducing power, and CUPRAC assays.
The aqueous extract of P. granatum leaves demonstrated the highest total phenolic content (192.57 mg GAE/g extract) while the greatest flavonoid content belonged to the acidified methanol extract of P. granatum buds (73.93 mg RE/g extract). The HPLC analysis detected such significant phenolic compounds as punicalagin in buds and flowers, as well as gallic acid in leaves. All the extracts showed good antioxidant activity; however, the bud extracts had a better antioxidant profile than the extracts from leaves and flowers.
The pomegranate leaf, bud, and flower extracts demonstrated excellent phytochemical and antioxidant properties, which makes it possible to recommend these plant tissues as raw materials to be used in pharmaceutical, food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Iranian grape syrup used as a prebiotic and its effect on the physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties of probiotic yogurt
Authors: Abdolmaleki Farzaneh , Rezaei Mokarram Reza , Daneshniya Milad , Maleki Mohammad Hossein
Published: May 2024

Yogurt is known as a suitable carrier of probiotics. Its supplementation with Iranian grape syrup used as a prebiotic can enhance its sensory and physicochemical properties, as well as improve the viability and growth of probiotics. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effect of Iranian grape syrup on stirred probiotic yogurt’s rheological, physicochemical, and microbial properties.
Probiotic yogurt samples were fortified with 3, 6, and 9% of Iranian grape syrup and evaluated in terms of pH, acidity, syneresis, viscosity, total phenolic and anthocyanin contents, as well as probiotic bacterial counts during 21 days of storage in a refrigerator at 4°C.
The results revealed that increasing concentrations of grape syrup inversely affected the yogurt’s pH, so the lowest and highest pH levels were recorded in the samples with the highest syrup concentration and the control (without syrup), respectively. No general trend was observed in acidity despite significant differences in acidity among the syrup-supplemented yogurts and the control (p ≤ 0.05). Syneresis demonstrated an inverse correlation, while viscosity exhibited a direct relationship, with a grape syrup concentration. Monitoring microbial changes in the samples throughout storage revealed a better growth in microbial colonies in the yogurts with higher grape syrup concentrations.
According to consumer preferences and physicochemical qualities, the optimal concentration of Iranian grape syrup was found to be 9%. Supplementing yogurt with grape syrup enhances its probiotic viability and metabolic activity. Considering its positive impact on both consumer preferences and product properties, Iranian grape syrup can be utilized as a prebiotic in future research to develop functional and symbiotic yogurts.
The Current System of Ecologic Taxes in Industrialised Countries
Authors: Simonova M. D. , Yarnykh E. A. , Ermolaeva D. I.
Published: May 2024

The goal of the article is to research the development of ecologic tax system used in taxation system of industrialised countries and taxa impact on economy.

   The authors summarized the system of tax bases of EU countries for ecologic taxation. The process of transforming the system of the given taxes and systematization of ecologic taxes can help identify their distinguishing features. Groups of ecologic taxes in industrialised countries play a serious role in regulating ecologic events. Among them it is necessary to mention tax on power, tax on transport, tax on resources, etc. Economic policy in the field of environment protection is affected by the process of distribution of obtained funds through fiscal mechanisms. Within the frames of research on the ecologic taxation system in the North Europe focus is made on the tax on carbon dioxide, which is a key element in this context. Tax rates grew from the initial date in the mid-1990-s to 2023. Results of regressive analysis for Denmark showed that the key factor affecting the ecologic tax earnings of the budget is the high level of tax burden. Due to toughening of tax and budegt policy tax revenues of the country grow. Positive experience of North European countries shows that to provide topicality and functionality of ecologic taxes shall be regularly upgraded and adjusted to economic conditions and ecologic requirements and trends. They are extemely important for stimulating power optimization, environment protection and finally, they are socially oriented.
Forecasting Use of Critical Rear-Earth Metals and Lithium During Energy Transformation
Authors: Shunkov V. E. , Sevostyanov P. I.
Published: May 2024

Energy transition from power-engineering of fossil fuel to low-carbon power-engineering requires great amounts of minerals. The growth in global demand for real-earth metals brings serious pressure on today’s supply. Among necessary minerals rear-earth elements (REE) are key components of ecologically clean power technologies, such as windmills and electric vehicles. In spite of importance of rear-earth metals forecasting of their future use is still a complicated task. The article paid key attention to forecasts of using lithium in electric vehicles and wind power stations, as well as neodymium. The authors researched problems connected with current and future REE supplies for low-carbon technologies: monopoly of China, the absence of equivalents substitutions, low rate of processing, etc. The authors analyzed long-term trends of consuming rear-earth metals and lithium on the basis of simple models of data and more complicated ones - multinomial. In general, models can forecast consequences only in limited degree, as in many cases they make up a structure, which combines a great number of initial assumptions. We propose a new approach to appraisal future use of key resources for energy transitions, which can answer the question ‘how to satisfy the current and future demand for power’ and will help scientists and decision-makers develop sustainable power strategies in view of climatic challenges and compare non-modeled scenarios on the basis of expert analysis.
Forecasting Macro-Economic Indicators Based on Text Information from Strategic Management Field in Russia
Authors: Zagranovskaia A. V.
Published: May 2024

The current situation in economic activity is notable for exponential increase in accessible e-information and serious interest in its use in order to get competitive advantages. The article studies influence of information published in mass media on the essential social and economic indicators, which show key concepts of the system of strategic management in Russia. Methodological basis of the research was formed by theories of cognitive, topical modeling and regressive analysis. In the investigation the author used methods of topical modeling, machine education and statistical analysis of data. The author put forward the procedure of automated plotting of the cause-and-effect diagram based on qualitative and quantitative data. The system of causal links between key concepts of the system gave a chance to build forecast models of high accuracy. Findings of the research showed that topics being highlighted in mass media can influence social and economic indicators. Unfortunately, accidental events can make mathematic models, relying on system inertia, inadequate. In theoretical aspect the article proposes the procedure of automated building of the cause-and-effect diagram based on heterogeneous data, which can eliminate the problem of subjectivity of expert estimations in plotting cognitive maps. In applied aspect models of forecasting the most important social and economic indicators based on mass media publications were worked out that lean against cause-and-effect diagram and can support well-grounded managerial decisions and in case of necessity can affect the situation.
Innovation in Steel-Making Cluster in the Russian Federation and Factors of Innovation Development
Authors: Kobin P. N.
Published: May 2024

The article analyzes the current condition and latest changes that took place in the steel-making cluster of the Russian Federation. It describes key problems and challenges that faced enterprises producing goods of ferrous metallurgy during COVID-19 pandemic and since the beginning of the special war operation. Key steps of the government of the Russian Federation aimed at supporting the cluster and stimulating its development were provided. At the same time the role and place of the steel-making cluster in global and home production were studied. On the basis of statistics the author depicted production dynamics in the industry, the level of innovation activity at enterprises, analyzed the structure of innovation costs in the cluster and showed priority tasks facing producers of goods of ferrous metallurgy and promising trends of their functioning. It was pointed out that in line with the global trend aiming at ecological innovation goods of ferrous metallurgy in the near future shall meet principles of carbon neutrality and high power-efficiency. Meanwhile, the development of digital infrastructure at industrial enterprises shall play an important role. Apart from that, the article provided factors of innovation development affecting seriously the balanced progress of home enterprises of ferrous metallurgy.
Autophagy-related ncRNAs: Regulatory Roles and Potential Therapeutic Effects in Digestive System Neoplasms
Authors: Wei Liushan , Wu Shijie , Lei Xiaoyong , Yang Xiaoyan
Published: May 2024

Among all cancers in the world, the incidence rate of digestive system neoplasms
accounts for about 25%, while the mortality rate accounts for about 35%. Difficulty
in detecting early digestive system cancers and its poor prognosis are the two main
reasons for the high mortality rate. Understanding of the basic cellular processes is of
significance and autophagy is one of these processes.
Considering the importance of autophagy in pathological state functions, the mechanism
of autophagy was initially carried out. In this paper, we will review the molecular mechanisms
and biological functions of autophagy-associated ncRNAs in different types of digestive
system cancers.
Autophagy is a process that supports nutrient cycling and metabolic adaptation accomplished
through multi-step lysosomal degradation. It has been suggested that autophagy
has a dual role in cancer, which limits tumorigenesis in some stages but promotes tumor
progression in others. NcRNAs are also shown to modulate cellular autophagy and thus
affect the development of digestive system neoplasms. More and more evidence
suggests that the regulation of autophagy by ncRNAs plays a complex role in cancer initiation,
progression, metastasis, recurrence, and treatment resistance, which might make
ncRNAs therapeutic targets for digestive system neoplasms. While miRNAs participate
mainly in post-transcriptional regulation, lncRNAs, and circRNAs usually serve as
molecular sponges that have more diverse regulatory functions.
LncRNA TINCR: an irreplaceable biological target in human malignancies
Authors: Jia Dengke , He Yaping , Zhang Yawu
Published: May 2024

Currently, malignant tumors increasingly affect young people, which has
caused a catastrophic financial burden on people worldwide. lncRNA has gained considerable
attention because of its importance in the early diagnosis and treatment of tumors.
In addition, since terminal differentiation-induced ncRNA (abbreviated as TINCR) was
reported in a Nature article, it has received focus on targeted therapy of tumors, especially
in digestive system malignant tumors. This review aims to reveal and summarize its
important molecular mechanisms in human malignancies. In this review, relevant research
works involving the relationship between TINCR and human malignancies are
gathered through systematic retrieval of PubMed. TINCR is expressed bidirectionally in
human malignancies. TINCR functions primarily as a ceRNA in human malignancies,
and it also functions at the transcriptional level. Moreover, lncRNA TINCR has the potential
to become a novel biomolecular marker of human malignancies.
IL-1β and CXCR4 as Potential Therapeutic Targets for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Zhang Yuhan , Su Qiong , Tan Jun , Deng Weiping , Wan Xiaoju , Li Yunjun , Shu Kuanyong
Published: May 2024

Background:

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a highly prevalent form of age-related
dementia. However, the underlying mechanisms of AD are largely unexplored.

Materials and Methods:

In this study, bioinformatics analysis was performed to identify the
possible therapeutic targets for AD. The GEO database was used to screen the Differentially
Expressed Genes (DEGs). Enrichment analysis, protein-protein interaction network, and LASSO
model analyses were successfully performed. Furthermore, an ELISA assay was also conducted
to determine the expression of principal genes within the AD and control samples.

Results:

A total of 416 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were recognized based on the
GSE48350 and GSE28146 datasets. The IL-1β and CXCR4 levels were markedly elevated in
the AD samples relative to the control.

Conclusion:

The IL-1β and CXCR4 genes were identified as principal AD-related genes that
can be targeted for anti-AD therapy.
Ufosomes as Topical/Transdermal Drug Delivery System: Structural Components, Preparation Techniques and Therapeutic Application
Authors: Al-Mahmood Sumayah , Rajab Ayash Nawal
Published: May 2024

Fatty acid vesicles, or ufasomes, are spherical structures that encapsulate and deliver
bioactive molecules to the skin or other tissues. They are formed from both saturated and unsaturated
fatty acids and offer advantages over liposomes, including greater stability and a wider range
of pH compatibility. They are composed of two layers of fatty acid molecules with their hydrocarbon
tails facing inwards and their carboxylic groups facing outwards. The space between the two
layers is filled with surfactants. There are various methods for characterizing and evaluating the
properties of vesicles and drug-loaded vesicles, such as differential scanning calorimetry (DSC),
Electron microscopy, UV-visible spectrophotometry, Dialysis, Franz diffusion cell, and stability
testing. Each method provides specific information about the vesicles, such as their size, zeta potential,
morphology, drug content, entrapment efficiency, drug release, permeability, and stability.
Ufasomes have potential applications in topical/transdermal drug delivery as food additives, cosmetics,
vaccines, gene therapy vectors, and diagnostic tools. Their ability to encapsulate and deliver
bioactive molecules makes them valuable in various fields, including drug delivery and biomedical
research. In summary, fatty acid vesicles represent a versatile drug delivery system with potential
applications in various fields.
“Non-COVID-19” Coronavirus Diseases Not to be Misdiagnosed as COVID-19
Authors: Hon Kam Lun , Leung Alexander K.C. , Chan Paul K. S. , Qian Su Yun , Wong Kin Tak
Published: May 2024

Background:

The COVID-19 global pandemic was caused by a novel coronavirus
(SARS-CoV-2), which then became an endemic infection. COVID refers to the World Health Organization’s
coined acronym for coronavirus disease.

Case Presentation:

We have, herein, reported three cases of coronavirus diseases that could have
been misdiagnosed as COVID-19. All of these families reported previous COVID-19 infection
based on self-administered Rapid Antigen Testing (RAT) and completed a period of home isolation.
In the current presentation, one child had an RSV-associated asthma attack, one had
norovirus gastritis, and another had an infection with Campylobacter and E. coli. NL63, OC43,
and 229E, respectively, were found by PCR in these patients.

Discussion:

Seven human coronaviruses cause infectious diseases, including in children. Confusion
and issues associated with coronavirus disease diagnosis by Polymerase Chain Reaction
(PCR) testing and Rapid Antigen Test (RAT) may arise. Some RATs are Antigen Fluorescent Immunoassays
(FIA) that target monoclonal antibodies for the detection of viral nucleocapsid protein.
Others target the non-nucleocapsid proteins. False positivity is possible. False negativity is also
possible if the specimen’s antigen level is below the test's detection limit. RAT results usually
remain positive for 6 to 7 days, but they may stay positive as long as 2 weeks. Stigmatization with
the COVID-19 diagnosis may occur. The PCR test is a highly sensitive ‘gold standard’ for the detection
of COVID-19, but it can also detect non-infectious individuals’ fragmented non-infectious
viral nucleic acids, and could be positive for a long period. An individual may be tested positive
for a few weeks to months after the individual becomes non-infectious.

Conclusion:

The cases presented here had coronavirus diseases other than COVID-19. Coronavirus
diseases can be caused by coronavirus variants other than SARS-CoV-2. Co-infections with
other pathogens are present in these diseases. PCR testing of non-COVID-19 diseases may help in
the accurate diagnosis of these ailments and respiratory co-infections.
Molecular Generation, QSAR, and Molecular Dynamic Simulation Studies for Virtual Screening of DNA Polymerase Theta Inhibitors
Authors: Qin Zijian , Liu Lei , Gao Mohan , Feng Wei , Huang Changjiang , Liu Wei
Published: May 2024

Aims:

The machine learning-based QSAR modeling procedure, molecular generations,
and molecular dynamic simulations were applied to virtually screen the DNA polymerase
theta inhibitors.

Background:

The DNA polymerase theta (Polθ or POLQ) is an attractive target for treatments
of homologous recombination deficient (such as BRCA deficient) cancers. There are no approved
drugs for targeting POLQ, and only one inhibitor is in Phase Ⅱclinical trials; thus, it is
necessary to develop novel POLQ inhibitors.

Objectives:

To build machine learning models that predict the bioactivities of POLQ inhibitors.
To build molecular generation models that generate diverse molecules. To virtually screen the
generated molecules by the machine learning models. To analyze the binding modes of the
screening results by molecular dynamic simulations.

Methods:

In the present work, 325 inhibitors with POLQ polymerase domain bioactivities were
Collected. Two machine learning methods, random forest and deep neural network, were used
for building the ligand- and structure-based quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR)
models. The substructure replacement-based method and transfer learning-based deep recurrent
neural network method were used for molecular generations. Molecular docking and consensus
QSAR models were carried out for virtual screening. The molecular dynamic simulations and
MM/GBSA binding free energy calculation and decomposition were used to further analyze the
screening results.

result:

The MCC values of the best ligand- and structure-based consensus QSAR models reached 0.651 and 0.361 for the test set, respectively. The machine learning-based docking scores had better predicted ability to distinguish the highly and weakly active poses than the original docking scores. The 96490 molecules were generated by both molecular generation methods, and 10 molecules were retained by virtual screening. Four favorable interactions were concluded by molecular dynamic simulations.

Results:

The MCC values of the best ligand- and structure-based consensus QSAR models
reached 0.651 and 0.361 for the test set, respectively. The machine learning-based docking
scores had better-predicted ability to distinguish the highly and weakly active poses than the
original docking scores. The 96490 molecules were generated by both molecular generation
methods, and 10 molecules were retained by virtual screening. Four favorable interactions were
concluded by molecular dynamic simulations.

Conclusion:

We hope that the screening results and the binding modes are helpful for designing
the highly active POLQ polymerase inhibitors and the models of the molecular design workflow
can be used as reliable tools for drug design.
The Mechanisms of Mesenchymal Stem Cells in the Treatment of
Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Xue Chunran , Yu Haojun , Sun Ye , Wang Xiying , Pei Xuzhong , Chen Yi , Guan Yangtai
Published: May 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory demyelinating disease of the central nervous system and is a leading cause of disability in young adults. Most therapeutic strategies are
based on immunosuppressant effects. However, none of the drugs showed complete remission and
may result in serious adverse events such as infection. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have
gained much attention and are considered a potential therapeutic strategy owing to their immunomodulatory effects and neuroprotective functions. Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
(EAE), a classical animal model for MS, is widely used to explore the efficacy and mechanism of
MSC transplantation. This review summarises the therapeutic mechanism of MSCs in the treatment of EAE, including the effects on immune cells (T cells, B cells, dendritic cells, natural killer
cells) and central nervous system-resident cells (astroglia, microglia, oligodendrocytes, neurons)
as well as various strategies to improve the efficacy of MSCs in the treatment of EAE. Additionally, we discuss the clinical application of MSCs for MS patients as well as the challenges and
prospects of MSC transplantation.
Obesity in Prediabetic Patients: Management of Metabolic Complications and Strategies for Prevention of Overt Diabetes
Authors: Chianelli Marco , Armellini Marina , Carpentieri Maria , Coccaro Carmela , Cuttica Carla Micaela , Fusco Alessandra , Marucci Simonetta , Nelva Anna , Nizzoli Maurizio , Ponziani Maria Chantal , Sciaraffia Marcello , Tassone Francesco , Busetto Luca
Published: May 2024

Obesity and prediabetes affect a substantial part of the general population, but are
largely underdiagnosed, underestimated, and undertreated. Prediabetes differs from diabetes
only in the degree of hyperglycaemia consequent to the progressive decline in residual beta-cell
function. Both prediabetes and diabetes occur as a consequence of insulin resistance that starts
several years before the clinical onset of overt diabetes. Macrovascular complications in patients
with diabetes are mainly caused by insulin resistance. This is why in prediabetes, the overall
cardiovascular risk is, by all means, similar to that in patients with diabetes. It is important,
therefore, to identify prediabetes and treat patients not only to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes,
but to reduce the cardiovascular risk associated with prediabetes. This review provides an
overview of the pathophysiology of prediabetes in patients with obesity and the progression toward
overt diabetes. We have reviewed nutritional and pharmacological approaches to the management
of obesity and reduced glucose tolerance, and the treatment of the major comorbidities
in these patients, including hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and Metabolic dysfunction-associated
Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD), has also been reviewed. In patients with obesity and prediabetes,
the nutritional approach is similar to that adopted for patients with obesity and diabetes;
treatments of dyslipidaemia and hypertension also have the same targets compared to patients
with diabetes. MASLD is a critical issue in these patients; in the prediabetic state, MASLD rarely
progresses into fibrosis. This highlights the importance of the early recognition of this pathological
condition before patients become diabetic when the risk of fibrosis is much higher. It is
necessary to raise awareness of the clinical relevance of this pathological condition in order to
prompt early intervention before complications occur. The single most important therapeutic
goal is weight loss, which must be early and persistent.
Difficult Diagnosis and Management of Concealed Cushing
Authors: Salcuni Antonio Stefano , Marchese Francesca , Cellini Miriam , Brunetti Alessandro , Kara Elda , Manso Jacopo , Tonelli Veronica , Cipri Claudia , Carpentieri Maria , Sciannimanico Silvia Maria , Galasso Silvia , Agus Sandra , Vescini Fabio
Published: May 2024

Background: Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH)-secreting tumors account for 5-
10% of Cushing syndrome cases and are often difficult to diagnose and treat.

Case Report: A 44-year-old man presented with arterial hypertension and weight gain. On the
physical examination, he exhibited central obesity, abdominal striae rubrae, and facial plethora.
Due to the clinical suspicion of Cushing syndrome, the Nugent test and Liddle-1 test were performed,
which showed a lack of cortisol suppression. ACTH levels were also high (138 pg/mL),
so pituitary MRI and dynamic tests were performed, including the Corticotropin-releasing Hormone
(CRH) stimulation test and Liddle-2. MRI showed a 3 mm pituitary microadenoma, but
hormonal testing suggested ectopic ACTH production. Chest CT detected a 10-mm nodule in
the upper lobe of the right lung, suspicious for a carcinoid tumor. However, the nodule did not
exhibit any enhancement on 68-Gallium-DOTATOC PET-CT, and further, 18-FDG PET-CT
was inconclusive. In addition, the nodule was deemed non-biopsiable due to its location.
Meanwhile, the patient developed osteoporosis, resulting in two vertebral fractures and one rib
fracture, which was treated with zoledronate. Furthermore, the patient developed acute aortic
insufficiency. During bioprosthetic valve replacement, the thoracic surgeon performed wedge
resection of the right upper lung lobe. The histological examination of the lesion revealed a typical
lung carcinoid (1.2x0.9 cm, pT1bNXR0, Ki671%, ACTH positive in 95% of neoplastic elements).
ACTH levels dropped to 4 pg/mL on the fourth postoperative day.

Conclusion: ACTH-secreting tumors are particularly challenging diseases. A comprehensive
hormonal and instrumental valuation is often required, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach.
A Review on Structural Configurations of Magnetorheological Clutch
Authors: Liu Baopeng , Ma Ran , Chen Chong , Tang Jiahao
Published: May 2024

In recent years, with the development of "smart materials", magnetorheological fluids
have been widely used in the fields of mechanical transmission, aerospace, construction, and medical
treatment because of the unique rheological properties that can occur under the action of an applied
magnetic field. Magnetorheological clutches with magnetorheological fluid as the working medium
have the advantages of simple structure, low noise, fast response, and easy control compared with
traditional clutches. In order to provide an overview of the issues encountered by magnetorheological
clutches in their current applications and to summarize the optimization designs implemented to
address these issues, with the aim of promoting the widespread application of magnetorheological
clutches. The basic theory of magnetorheological fluid and magnetorheological clutch design method
is introduced. The related patents of magnetorheological clutch structure design are reviewed. The
characteristics and advantages of magnetorheological clutch in different working modes are summarized.
This study introduces the basic theory of magnetorheological fluid. The problems existing in
the application of magnetorheological clutch are explained. The characteristics of magnetorheological
clutch based on shear mode, shear-extrusion mode and heat dissipation mode are described. The
development trend of magnetorheological clutch is discussed. This paper provides an important basis
for the design and application of magnetorheological clutch, offers specific guidance for improving
the torque transmission capacity and heat dissipation capacity of magnetorheological clutch, and lays
a theoretical foundation for the wide application of magnetorheological clutch in the future.
The Association of Exercise and Self-Esteem among First-Year Students Registered at a Rural University In South Africa
Authors: Tshikovhele Khodani Lucky , Govender Saraswathie , Nel Kathryn Anne , Govender Indiran
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Students who move from secondary school to tertiary institutions may experience stressors that lead to low self-esteem. This may, however, be alleviated by exercise. The aim of the study was to investigate the association of exercise with self-esteem among first-year students enrolled at a University in South Africa.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey design was used. The study sample consisted of 320 randomly selected first-year students, 160 students who exercised regularly and 160 students who did not exercise. Data was collected using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSE). The data were analysed using both non-inferential and inferential statistics.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between the different ages and ethnicities with exercise and self-esteem. Exercisers had a slightly larger (14%) likelihood than non-participants of having more positive self-esteem, as shown by the OR of 1.14 (CI 1.06, 1.22).

Discussion: Men and women who exercised had higher self-esteem scores than those who did not exercise. Those who exercised had a higher likelihood of having a positive sense of self.

Conclusion

First-year university students should include exercise in their activities as this is related to higher self-esteem.
The Durability of Simvastatin Nanoparticle Coatings on Dental Implant Healing-Abutments
Authors: Masoudi Sahar , Torab Ali , Negahdari Ramin , Maleki Dizaj Solmaz , Sharifi Simin , Salatin Sara
Published: May 2024

Background:

Considering the success of dental implant treatments and their long-term
effectiveness, it is important to prevent a series of biological complications such as peri-implant
diseases. The development of antimicrobial coatings is known as a promising strategy to overcome
these challenges. This study aimed to investigate the durability of simvastatin-loaded gelatin
nanoparticle coating on titanium healing abutments.

Methods:

40 titanium healing abutments were prepared in two groups, including the test group (titanium
healing abutments coated with simvastatin nanoparticles, n=20) and the control group (titanium
healing abutments without simvastatin nanoparticle coating, n=20). The dip-coating process
was then applied to cover the surface of the healing-abutments. The morphology and composition
of coatings were evaluated by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and X-Ray Diffraction analysis
(XRD), respectively.

Results:

The resulting data from SEM and XRD confirmed the successful coating of simvastatin-
loaded gelatin nanoparticles on the implant. Based on the Sidak test results, it was observed
that the average weight before coating and immediately after coating had a significant difference.
Also, the average weight between the initial time (after coating) and the time of 1 day after coating
and 30 days after coating was not statistically significant. It means that the coating has been
stable for at least 30 days. The difference between the initial weight (after coating) and 60 days after
plating was significant. This means that the durability of the coating has decreased until the
60th day.

Conclusion:

The resulting data showed that the coating of gelatinous nanoparticles containing simvastatin
on the titanium healing abutments was successful, and the durability of the coating lasted
for at least 1 month.