bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the Efficacy of Sensory Motor Rhythm and Alpha-Theta Increase Protocol of Neurofeedback Training for Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Lotfinia Shahab , Shahkaram Homa , Yaseri Aram , KianiMoghadam AmirSam , Arani Abbas Masjedi
Published: July 2023

Neurofeedback training is one of the alternative therapies for Generalized anxiety disorder. Although research suggests its effective therapy, there is a lack of studies for comparing different protocols. So, this study aimed at comparing sensory motor rhythm and alpha-theta increase protocol of neurofeedback. In this research, a two-arm randomized trial was conducted to compare two different protocols of neurofeedback. A total of 40 individuals diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder were assigned to either group which received 15 sessions of alpha-theta increase on Pz and group two received 15 sessions of sensory motor rhythm increase on Cz. Pretest and post-test measurements were taken using Beck Anxiety Inventory, State-Trait Spielberg, and Perceived Stress Scale, and finally data were analyzed using IBM SPSS v24 software. The results of the Wilcoxon test shows both protocols significantly reduced anxiety symptoms, but the alpha-theta protocol was more effective in reducing state anxiety and the sensory motor rhythm protocol was more effective in reducing Beck Anxiety Inventory and Perceived Stress Scale. According to the research, both protocols are effective in reducing anxiety. However, they each have their own advantages in reducing specific anxiety symptoms.
Effects of Various Land Use Land Cover (LULC) Data on Hydrological Model Performances
Authors: Peker İsmail Bilal , Cüceloğlu Gökhan , Gülbaz Sezar , Serengil Yusuf
Published: July 2023

Land cover is a significant input in hydrological modeling, and its features may affect model performances. To evaluate its impact on evapotranspiration, surface runoff, and water yield, we tested six open-source LULC data products (GLCC, GLC 2000, GlobCover 2005, GLCNMO V1, CLC 1990, and PELCOM) in the Emet-Orhaneli Basin located in western Anatolia. The Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was employed to assess hydrological responses. Following the model calibration with observed streamflow data, the changes in outputs over the 1980–2012 period were compared temporally and spatially. The results revealed that temporal and spatial changes in evapotranspiration and water yield were slight, whereas surface runoff varied more significantly in monthly and interannual intervals. The surface runoff values varied up to 70% for different LULC data in the basin scale and more distinct variations at the subbasin scale. The surface runoff values were highest in the case of using GLCC and lowest in PELCOM case. We concluded that the LULC data is crucial for estimating surface runoff and peak flow, while it is less effective in estimating evapotranspiration and total water yield. Our results may guide hydrologic modelers in selecting LULC data for specific conditions and purposes.
MGSI：A few-shot relation extraction model based on multi-granularity semantic interaction
Authors: Zhao Guangda , He Xinyu , Li Shixin , Han Xue , Zhuang Qianjian , Ren Yonggong
Published: July 2023

Relation extraction is an important task in natural language processing, which aims to identify the semantic relationships between entities. Although the existing models excel with large datasets, the performance suffers when dealing with few-shot scenarios due to limited samples. Consequently, these models struggle to fully capture the semantics of the given text. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a few-shot relation extraction model based on multi-granularity semantic interaction. Our approach facilitates comprehensive semantic interaction between support instances, query instances, and relation descriptions to obtain sentence-level and word-level prototypes with varying levels of semantic granularity. These prototypes are then fused to generate the final prototype. Furthermore, our framework incorporates a target adaptation module and a semantic comparison module. These modules enhance the model's automatic adaptation and semantic understanding by capturing class-specific differences effectively. To validate the effectiveness of our proposed model, we conduct extensive experiments on the FewRel and FewRel2.0 public datasets. The experimental results support the validity of our proposed model.
Preferences of bereaved family members on communication with physicians when discontinuing anticancer treatment. - Referring to the concept of nudges
Authors: YOSHIDA Saran , HIRAI Kei , OHTAKE Fumio , MASUKAWA Kento , MORITA Tatsuya , KIZAWA Yoshiyuki , TSUNETO Satoru , SHIMA Yasuo , MIYASHITA Mitsunori
Published: July 2023

Purpose: This study aimed to clarify the situation and evaluate the communication on anticancer treatment discontinuation from the viewpoint of a bereaved family, in reference to the concept of nudges.
Methods: A multi-center questionnaire survey was conducted involving 350 bereaved families of patients with cancer admitted to palliative care units in Japan.
Results: The following explanations were rated as essential or very helpful: 1) anticancer treatment would be a physical burden for the patient (43.1%), 2) providing anticancer treatment was impossible (40.6%), 3) the disadvantages of undergoing treatment (40.6%), 4) not having the treatment would be better for the patient (40.6%), and 5) the advantages of not having the treatment (40.3%). The factors associated with a high need for improvement of the physician’s explanation included older age of the participant (β = 0.221, p = 0.010); lack of explanation that anticancer treatment cannot be given (β = 0.219, p = 0.001); and lack of explanation on the specific benefits of not having treatment (β = 0.251, p = 0.001).
Conclusion: Explaining the disadvantages of continuing anticancer treatment and the advantages of discontinuing treatment and presenting treatment discontinuation as the default option were effective in helping patients’ families in making the decision to discontinue treatment. In particular, explanation regarding the benefits of treatment discontinuation and show the discontinuation of anticancer treatment as the default option was considered important, as the lack of them caused a higher need for improvement.
Compulsory indications in hospital prescribing software tested with antibacterial prescriptions
Authors: Pairman Lorna , Chin Paul , Gardiner Sharon J , Doogue Matthew
Published: July 2023

Purpose
To assess and visualise how making the indication field compulsory in our electronic prescribing system influenced free text documentation.
Methods
This was a three-group prospective controlled study. In the intervention group of seven antibacterial medicines, the free text indication field was made compulsory in our electronic prescribing system. Text recorded in the indication field was manually classified as ‘indication present’, ‘other text’, ‘rubbish text’, or ‘blank’. The proportion of prescriptions with an indication for the seven antibacterials was compared with five antibacterials with and 72 without pre-existing compulsory indications for four weeks before and after the field was made compulsory. An interactive report was developed using a live data extract to illustrate indication provision for all medicines prescribed at our tertiary hospital.
Results
The proportion of prescriptions with an indication increased from 10.6–72.4% (p < 0.01) post-intervention. There was a 17.5% increase in ‘other text’ (p < 0.01), and 0.6% increase in ‘rubbish text’ (p < 0.01). Indications increased 2.7% (p < 0.01) in antibacterials without and 0.5% (p = 0.89) in antibacterials with pre-existing compulsory indications. The interactive report was validated and locally published.
Conclusion
Introducing a compulsory indication field in electronic prescriptions increased the proportion of indications documented substantially. There was only a small increase in ‘rubbish text’ reducing concern inaccurate information is recorded as a ‘workaround’ to the compulsory field. Interactive reports with live data support audit and quality improvement projects.
Does coping strategies play a mediating role in the relationship between disease management self-efficacy and mental toughness with the quality of life of cardiovascular patients?
Authors: Janjani Parisa , Nosrati Parisa , Ziapour Arash , Geravand Sahand , Moghadam Reza Heidari
Published: July 2023

Background
The present study was conducted with the aim of investigating the mediating role of coping strategies in relation to the self-efficacy for managing disease and mental toughness with the quality of life of cardiovascular patients.
Method
This was a descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study that was conducted in a specialized cardiology hospital in the west of Iran in 2022. The method of the present research is correlation structure analyses. Atotal of 313 eligible patients with coronary artery disease were included in the study. Coping strategies, self-efficacy for managing disease, mental toughness and quality of life questionnaires were used. After targeting 10 distorted questionnaires, 303 data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 and PLS_3 software.
Results
The results showed that self-efficacy and mental toughness are directly and indirectly related to the quality of life through the mediation of problem-oriented coping style, but SEM did not confirm this relationship through emotion-oriented coping style, and this relationship is not established. It was also found that heart patients with better self-efficacy for managing disease used more problem-oriented coping style, and their quality of life was reported to be higher.
Conclusion
The findings emphasize the importance of developing internal work models based on the type of coping strategies and the lifelong effects of these models on the quality of life of heart patients.
Physicochemical and Kinetic Properties of E-NTPDase Activity in Lymphocytes Isolated from Bone Marrow, Thymus and Mesenteric Lymph Nodes of Wistar Rats
Authors: Doleski Pedro Henrique , Cabral Fernanda Licker , Jantsch Matheus Henrique , Ebone Renan Silva , Adefegha Stephen Adeniyi , Leal Daniela Bitencourt Rosa , Schetinger Maria Rosa Chitolina
Published: July 2023

Plasma membrane anchored nucleotidases (E-ATPDases), as the E-NTPDase family, could hydrolyse and regulate the pericellular levels of nucleotides in lymphocytes. Each immune organ has a different microenvironment and display lymphocytes with different functions and phenotypes. Considering the different functions of each resident lymphocytes, the E-ATPDases activities in bone marrow (BML), thymus (TL) and mesenteric lymph node (MLL) lymphocytes of Wistar rats were characterized. The hydrolysis of extracellular nucleotides (eATP and eADP) showed linearity in time (0 to 120 min) and protein (1 to 6 μg protein) intervals. The optimal activity was attained at 37ºC in a pH value of 8.0. The essence of cofactor was shown by availability of Ca2+ or Mg2+ within the concentration range of 0 to 1000 µM in the reaction medium, with both ions showing similar effect. The Chevillard plot revealed that the hydrolysis of eATP and eADP occurred at the same active site of the enzyme. The analyses of E-ATPDases inhibitor and enzyme specificity showed possible actions of E-NTPDase isoforms -1 and -2 in the isolated cells. Furthermore, different kinetic behaviour of the nucleotide hydrolysis in each resident lymphocyte was observed in this study, as MLL showed the higher Vmax with the lowest km values, while TL had the lowest Vmax and high km values. The observed variation in enzyme activity of each resident lymphocyte may account for the different physiological signalling of nucleotides in each immune organ.
Evaluation of Antibody Drug Delivery Efficiency via Nebulizer in Various Airway Models and Breathing Patterns
Authors: Hong Soon Woo , Chang Kyung Hwa , Woo Chang Jae , Kim Ho Chul , Kwak Bong Seop , Park Bong Joo , Nam Ki Chang
Published: July 2023

Nebulizers are commonly used to treat respiratory diseases, which are a major cause of morbidity and mortality. While inhalation therapy with antibodies has been evaluated in preclinical studies and clinical trials for respiratory diseases, it has not yet been approved for treatment. Moreover, there is limited information regarding the delivery efficiency of therapeutic antibodies via nebulizer. In this study, the nebulization characteristics and drug delivery efficiencies were compared when immunoglobulin G (IgG) was delivered by five nebulizers using two airway models and five breathing patterns. The study confirmed that the delivered dose and drug delivery efficiency were reduced in the child model compared to those in the adult model and in the asthma pattern compared to those in the normal breathing pattern. The NE-SM1 NEPLUS vibrating mesh nebulizer demonstrated the highest delivery efficiency when calculated as a percentage of the loading dose, whereas the PARI BOY SX + LC SPRINT (breath-enhanced) jet nebulizer had the highest delivery efficiency when calculated as a percentage of the emitted dose. The results suggest that the total inspiration volume, output rate, and particle size should be considered when IgG nebulization is used. We, therefore, propose a method for testing the efficiency of nebulizer antibody delivery to predict delivered doses.
Effect of preoperative immunonutrition on postoperative short-term clinical outcomes in patients with gastric cancer cachexia: a prospective randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yu Junjian , Yuan Antai , Liu Qi , Dong Zhensheng , Li Zequn , Meng Cheng , Sun Yuqi , Jia Zhuoyu , Zhou Yanbing , Cao Shougen
Published: July 2023

Background: Although current guidelines recommend preoperative immunonutrition for cachectic gastric cancer patients, the strength of the recommendation is weak, and the level of evidence is low. The benefits of preoperative immunonutrition still remain controversial.
Patients and Methods: During the period from June 2022 to April 2023, 112 patients with gastric cancer cachexia were enrolled in the study and randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either preoperative enteral immunonutrition support (IN, n=56) or standard enteral nutrition support (SEN, n=56). The primary endpoint was the incidence of infectious complications, and the secondary endpoints included the nutritional indicators, inflammatory markers, immune parameters, postoperative recovery and complications and astrointestinal intolerance reactions.
Results: The occurrence rate of infectious complications in patients who received preoperative immunonutrition support was significantly lower than that in the SEN group (21.4% vs 37.5%, P=0.040). The overall incidence of postoperative complications in the IN group was significantly lower than that in the SEN group (28.6% vs 44.6%, P=0.049). In terms of laboratory measurements, the IN group had significantly lower white blood cell (WBC) levels before surgery, on the first day after surgery, and on the fifth day after surgery compared to the SEN group (P=0.011; P=0.019; P=0.034). The IN group also had significantly lower serum C-reactive protein (CRP) levels before surgery, on the first day after surgery, and on the third day after surgery compared to the SEN group (P=0.005; P=0.017; P=0.042). On the third day after surgery, the IL-6 levels in the IN group were significantly lower than those in the SEN group. Furthermore, the IN group had significantly higher blood lymphocytes levels on the third and fifth day after surgery compared to the SEN group (P=0.016; P=0.011). The IN group also had significantly higher serum IgA levels before surgery and on the third day after surgery compared to the SEN group (P=0.048). In terms of clinical outcomes, the IN group had a shorter duration of antibiotic use (P=0.048), shorter hospital stay (P=0.018), and lower total hospital costs (P=0.034) compared to the SEN group. The IN group also experienced significantly less weight loss after surgery (P=0.043).
Conclusion: Preoperative administration of immunonutrition formula has a positive impact on the incidence of infectious complications in patients with gastric cancer cachexia after surgery. It improves patients' inflammatory and immune status, shortens hospital stays, and reduces healthcare costs. Preoperative use of immunonutrition may contribute to the improvement of prognosis in this high-risk population.
The risk of infective endocarditis according to blood pressure in patients with diabetes: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Pyo Won Kyung , Kim Hee-Jung , Kim Jin Nam , Han Kyungdo , Lee Se Ju , Kim Jung Ho , Ku Nam Su , Lee Seung-Hyun
Published: July 2023

Background
We aimed to assess the incidence of infective endocarditis (IE) and evaluate the impact of hypertension (HTN) with underweight on the risk of IE among patients with diabetic mellitus (DM) using a nationwide population-based cohort in Korea.
Methods
We identified 2,603,012 participants (57.4 ± 12.3 years) in the national health insurance database. Of these, 374,586 were normotensive, 750,006 were at pre-HTN status, and the remainder had HTN. The risk of IE was compared between the groups, and the impact of being underweight (body mass index < 18.5) was also evaluated.
Results
During follow-up (7.14 years; interquartile range 6.01–8.08 years), 1,703 cases of IE occurred; 168 (0.0647 person per 1000 person-years [PY]), 303 (0.05836 per 1000 PY), and 1,232 (0.12235 per 1000 PY) in normotensive, pre-HTN and HTN group, respectively. Hypertensive participants presented a higher risk of IE (hazard ratio, 1.360; 95% confidence interval, 1.152–1.607) than normotensive participants. Being underweight increased the risk of IE by 90% among subjects with HTN. In subgroup analysis, age, duration of DM, insulin use, and habitual factors were not associated with the incidence of IE.
Conclusions
Diabetic patients may require rigorous blood pressure control and simultaneous avoidance of excessive weight loss to prevent IE.
Fluoroscopic Localization of L3 Sympathetic Ganglion Prior to Endoscopic Lumbar Sympathectomy
Authors: Kusakavitch Melanie , Talsma Joel , Idowu Olajire , Kim Sunghoon
Published: July 2023

Purpose: Plantar hyperhidrosis can cause a significant impact on an individual's quality of life. Surgical treatment of plantar hyperhidrosis involves blocking the lumbar sympathetic signals from reaching the plantar surface by placing a metal clip above the third lumbar ganglion. We hypothesize that by mapping the location of the third lumbar ganglion and correlating it with a fluoroscopic image of the lumbar spine will improve the level accuracy of lumbar sympathectomy.
METHODS: Ten human cadavers were dissected to define the locations of lumbar sympathetic ganglia, and fluoroscopic images of lumbar spine were obtained.
RESULTS: For the right L3 sympathetic ganglion most common locations corresponded with the upper 1/3 of the L3 vertebral body 36.4%, and the next most common location corresponded to the lower 1/3 of the L2 vertebral body 27.3%. The left L3 sympathetic ganglion the most common sites corresponded with the upper 1/3 of the L3 vertebral body 36.4% and the middle 1/3 of the L3 vertebral body 36.4%.
CONCLUSION: The L3 ganglion is consistently found next to either L2 or L3 vertebrae.
A Novel Optic Disc and Optic Cup Segmentation in a Fundus Image using CNN based hybrid CAG-SEPPSM
Authors: Elizabeth J. Ruby , Kesavaraja D. , Juliet S. Ebenezer
Published: July 2023

Segmentation is one of the most significant processes in identifying the diseases. Glaucoma disease is detected by segmenting Optic Disc (OPdisc) and Optic Cup (OPcup) from a fundus image. In disease detection method, accuracy of segmentation plays a vital role. Segmentation process is more time consuming task because of large dataset. For avoiding that, an automatic segmentation tool is needed. In this paper, the automatic segmentation is proposed through a Deep Learning based CNN model. The OPdisc and OPcup are segmented by using a hybrid Channel Attention Gate- Squeeze Excitation Parallel Pooling Statistical Map (CAG-SEPPSM) embedded using Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). In segmentation of OPdisc, a new Attention Gate and in segmentation of OPcup, Squeeze-Excitation Parallel Pooling Statistical Map block was developed. The dataset which are used for testing the proposed method are DRISHTI-GS database and RIM-ONE v.3 database. The proposed segmentation method outperform when compared to the existing methods in terms of Dice Coefficient (DC), Intersection Over Union (IOU) and Accuracy.
Differences in mental indicators and state-hope related to the level of engagement in social unrest in Israel
Authors: Hamama-Raz Yaira , Leshem Elazar , Ben-Ezra Menachem
Published: July 2023

Background
This study examined the interplay between engagement in social unrest, mental indicators, state-hope and demographic variables. In addition, mental indicators and state-hope were compared in line with levels of engagement in social unrest.
Methods
In a cross-sectional study, conducted from March 23 to April 10, 2023, 2015 Israelis were recruited via a survey company. Participants completed self-report questionnaires to assess engagement in social unrest, anxiety, social unrest related distress, state-hope and demographic variables.
Results
Participants with higher engagement in social unrest, who opposed the law reform, were prone to higher levels of social unrest related distress, anxiety, and lower levels of state-hope compared to those not engaged in social unrest activities or those who supported the law reform.
Conclusions
Concerns regarding unmet mental health needs, during and following social unrest, regardless of the engagement level, should be actively addressed by mental health professionals and health policy makers.
Structural behavior of pre-engineered buildings provided with different types of bracings in various seismic zones
Authors: Bharmal Pravin. P. , Kumbhar Popat. D. , Gumaste Krishnakedar. S.
Published: July 2023

In recent years, the use of Pre-engineered buildings (PEB) has become more popular due to their important advantages over conventional steel structures (CSB) such as cost-effectiveness, faster construction, low maintenance, consistent span, reasonable earthquake resistance, the capability of offering column-free area, etc. This paper focuses on the analytical study of the structural behavior of a PEB provided with different types of bracings (viz. X, V, K, and diagonal) considering all the seismic zones (i.e., II, III, IV, and V) and medium type of soil. The analysis of a PEB of size 22m x 44m is done using Staad Pro software considering wind and seismic forces for determining the efficient type of bracing that will minimize the structural responses viz. displacement and natural time period. The results of the study indicate that the PEB provided with diagonal bracing reduces displacement and natural time period by 13% and 15.80% respectively when compared with the corresponding average values of displacement and natural time period of PEBs provided with X, V, and K types of bracings. The study concludes that the provision of diagonal bracing contributes to improving the performance of PEB in all the seismic zones.
Clinical analysis of 116 children with Meckel’s diverticulum
Authors: Zhang TingTing , Zhang RuiYun , Cai Peng , Zhu Jie , Chen Jian Lei , Zhao Hao Wei , Jiang Yu Liang , Wang Qi , Zhu Meng Lei , Zhou Xiao Gang , Hu Fei Long , Gu Zhi Cheng , Zhu Zhen Wei
Published: July 2023

Objective: We aimed to retrospectively analyze the clinical characteristics of pediatric Meckel’s diverticulum to improve the understanding and diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum in children.
Methods: The clinical data of 116 hospitalized children with Meckel’s diverticulum diagnosed by surgery in the Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children’s Hospital of Soochow University, between January 2017 and January 2023 were analyzed retrospectively.
Results: A total of 95 boys and 21 girls were included in this study, with a male-to-female ratio of 4.524:1. The observed clinical manifestations could be roughly divided into the following three categories: gastrointestinal bleeding in 68 cases (59%), intestinal obstruction in 35 cases (30%), and abdominal inflammation in 10 cases (9%). The positive rate of 99TcmO4-ECT was higher than that of abdominal ultrasound in all patients and patients with gastrointestinal bleeding. The sensitivity and specificity of 99TcmO4-ECT were 98% and 25%, respectively. The surgical methods of Meckel’s diverticulum are mainly divided into two types: either wedge resection of the diverticulum or resection of the diverticulum and adjacent bowel after laparoscopic or open exploration. The average distance between the diverticulum and ileocecal junction was 50.5 ± 18.2 cm, the average length of the diverticulum was 3.25 ± 1.6 cm, and the average width of the diverticulum was 1.52 ± 0.7 cm. According to the pathological examination results, the incidence of ectopic mucosal tissue in Meckel’s diverticulum in the gastrointestinal bleeding group was higher than that in the non-gastrointestinal bleeding group. The clinical symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding in children with Meckel’s diverticulum are related to the presence of ectopic mucosal tissue.
Conclusions: Gastrointestinal bleeding is the most common clinical manifestation of Meckel’s diverticulum in children, and it is closely related to the presence of ectopic mucosal tissue. 99TcmO4-ECT is an important imaging examination for the diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum. Once Meckel’s diverticulum is suspected, immediate surgical resection is advocated.
Fraunhofer Diffraction Patterns by Incorporating hBN
Authors: Lei Jin , Jiang Hua , Zhang Lee , Zhang Yan , Li Jingxiang
Published: July 2023

This research paper explores the intriguing world of Fraunhofer diffraction manipulation using Hexagonal Boron Nitride (hBN) as the diffracting material. Through a comprehensive theoretical investigation and MATLAB simulations, we analyze the diffraction patterns obtained for different incident light frequencies and phases. The diffraction patterns exhibit fascinating variations, showcasing hBN's tunable nature in controlling the spatial distribution of diffracted light. As the incident light frequency increases, the diffraction peaks shift to higher angles, reflecting hBN's dispersion characteristics. The energy intensity pattern also undergoes significant changes, with regions of higher intensity shifting as the frequency varies. The validated theoretical model and simulations emphasize hBN's potential as a versatile platform for diffractive optics and light manipulation, promising applications in advanced spectroscopy, optical communications, and nanophotonic devices. The insights gained from this study pave the way for harnessing hBN's optical properties in emerging quantum technologies and integrated photonics, driving innovations in the realm of optical control and light manipulation.
Mechanistic role of RND3-regulated IL33/ST2 signaling on cardiomyocyte senescence
Authors: Wu Linxu , Zhu Xinglin , Luo Cai , Zhao Yangyang , Pan Shanshan , Shi Kaijia , Shen Zhihua , Guo Junli , Jie Wei
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND: Hyperinflammatory responses are pivotal in the pathophysiology of cardiomyocyte senescence, with IL33 serving as a crucial pro-inflammatory mediator. Our previous findings highlighted RND3's suppressive effect on IL33 expression. This study delves into the influence of RND3 on IL33/ST2 signaling activation and cardiomyocyte senescence.
METHODS: AC16 cardiomyocytes were subjected to treatments involving recombinant IL33, NF-κB inhibitor PDTC, or ST2 antibody Astegolimab. SA-β-gal and γH2AX staining were utilized to monitor alterations in cell senescence and DNA damage, respectively. Western blot analysis was conducted to ascertain the expression of Senescence-Associated Secretory Phenotype (SASP) and NF-κB activation. Utilizing CRISPR/Cas9 technology, the RND3 gene was knocked out in H9C2 cells, followed by senescence analysis and sST2 level detection in the culture medium supernatant via ELISA. Post-AAV9 injection overexpressing RND3 in SD rats, IL33/ST2 and SASP expression in heart tissues, and serum IL33 and sST2 changes were evaluated using ELISA.
RESULTS: Exogenous IL-33 significantly induced IL-1α, IL6, and MCP1 expression, increased the p-p65/p65 ratio, and the proportion of SA-β-gal and γH2AX positive cells in AC16 cells. PDTC and Astegolimab application mitigated these effects. RND3 knockout in H9C2 cells led to increased intracellular IL33, ST2L, IL1 α, IL6, and MCP1 expression, decreased sST2 in the supernatant, and increased SA-β-gal and γH2AX positive cells. RND3 overexpression suppressed IL33, ST2L, IL-1α, IL6, and MCP1 expression in heart tissues, decreased serum IL33, and increased sST2 levels.
CONCLUSION: RND3 expression in cardiomyocytes modulates cell senescence by negatively regulating the IL33/ST2/NF-κB signaling pathway, underscoring its potential as a therapeutic target in cardiovascular senescence.
Association between sedentary behavior and physical activity with arthritis in the NHANES 2007-2016
Authors: Ji Hongshen , Li Lei , Zhang Wenfeng , Chen Xing , Sun Jian , Xie Hezhi , Xu Kun
Published: July 2023

Background
Arthritis stands as a major, globally rampant, and enduring health condition. Influences such as age, hereditary factors, and excessive body weight have been understood to trigger arthritis, yet the impact of physical activity and a sedentary behavior remains less explored. The objective of this research is to ascertain the linkage between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and arthritis manifestation.
Methods
We harnessed data from the representative National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 2007 to 2016. A multivariate logistic regression model was adopted to assess the correlation between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and arthritis, and to present the odds ratios (OR).
Results
Arthritis prevalence was notably higher among females, the elderly, non-Hispanic white demographic, moderate alcohol consumers, smokers, individuals with obesity, and diabetic patients. Total physical activity, heightened transportation and leisure-time physical activity, and diminished sedentary behavior corresponded with a lower arthritis onset. The adjusted multivariate regression analysis unveiled individuals lacking occupational moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) showed decreased odds of arthritis (OR = 0.71, 95% CI = 0.62–0.81, p < 0.01). Furthermore, individuals demonstrating high sedentary behavior during non-screen time had increased odds of arthritis (OR = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.1–1.41, p < 0.01).
Conclusion
Physical activity is integral to joint health, with active individuals indicating lower arthritis onset, while prolonged stationary behavior was linked to increased arthritis cases. Hence, endorsing moderate physical activity and curtailing sedentary periods emerge as crucial strategies for arthritis prevention and control.
On the Automatic Continuity on Fréchet algebras
Authors: Mustapha LAAYOUNI
Published: July 2023

A topological algebra A over C is called functionally continuous if each complex homomorphism on A is continuous. It is well-known that each Banach algebra is functionally continuous, but it is not known whether or not each commutative Fréchet algebra has this property; This is a famous question called Michael’s problem. Many mathematicians have been trying to answer this old problem in the past 70 years. To give an affirmative answer to this conjecture we use two great theorems of functional analysis, namely the closed graph theorem and the open image theorem: Let φ be complex homomorphism on a commutative Fréchet al- gebra (A; (|| ||n)n≥0 ). Our first result shows that there exists an integer q such that ker (|| ||q) ⊂ ker (φ) (Theorem 2.1). Next, we will provide A with a sequence (||.||′ n)n of semi-norms under which A is a Fréchet algebra (Lemma2.2 ) and which make the character φ continuous. The Closed graph theorem [2 , B.2, p.335] and the open image theorem [2, B.1, p.335 ] allow us to show that the two topologies are equivalent on A (Lemma2.3) and therefore φ is (|| ||n)n-continuous (Theorem2.3)
Financial Development- International Trade Nexus in Ghana: The Role of Sectoral Effects
Authors: Prempeh Kwadwo Boateng , Frimpong Joseph Magnus
Published: July 2023

This study investigates the role of sectoral effects in the finance-trade nexus using time series data from Ghana from 1960 to 2017. Our evidence from the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) estimates indicates that while the effect of sectoral value additions on trade is conditional on the proxy of finance, financial development significantly promotes trade in both the long and short run regardless of the proxy. Moreover, even after accounting for sectoral value additions, finance had a positive effect on trade. On the moderation front, we observe that increased agricultural value additions mitigate the beneficial impact of finance on trade, whereas increased service value additions magnify the beneficial effects. Thus, to boost international trade in Ghana, policymakers should prioritise fostering complementarity between the industrial, agricultural, service, manufacturing, and financial sectors.
Jel Classification: F13; F14; G21
Stretching new boundaries of endodontics with phytotherapy: A review of literature
Authors: Gaidhane Harshal
Published: July 2023

Root canal treatment has been used as an ultimate boon for various clinical situations, bypassing unnecessary extractions and preserving precious dentoalveolar structures. Although, persistence of microorganisms due to complex anatomy of root structure makes the process complex and challenging. Hence, complete and thorough debridement of the root canal by various endodontic irrigants becomes a prime necessity. In recent times, herbal alternatives are gaining popularity as a means to overcome various limitations of the conventional chemical irrigants. For the ease of the readers, review of various studies, focusing on few herbal irrigants is summarised in tabular form for quick review & understanding. The tabular form is discussed under the heads viz. material/herbs with active constituent & its mechanism of action, investigators, aim and results/conclusion. We, as dentists of this new era are quite hopeful for these herbal materials to undergo further rigorous research in order to engrave their revolutionary marking in endodontic treatments and so more.
Comparing Radiopacity of Nanohybrid Composite and Giomers: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Vyas Aarshati , Shah Shilpa , Patel Nishtha , Yagnik Krushnangi , Yagnik Kruti
Published: July 2023

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare the radiopacity of three different composite resins; one nanohybrid and two giomers.

Material and Methods:

For evaluation of radiopacity of composites, ten specimens of each material [(3 groups) (total 30) (n=10] with thicknesses of 2 mm were prepared and radiographed alongside aluminum step wedge and human enamel and dentin. Occlusal radiograph was taken and mean gray values of the test materials were measured using Image J software. Then a conversion was performed to establish the radiopacity of the test materials, in millimeters of equivalent Aluminum (Al). Data were analyzed using one‑way analysis of variance and Scheffe’s Post Hoc tests (P < 0.05).

Results:

The radiopacity values varied among the restorative materials (p < 0.05) with the highest for Filtek followed by Beautifil Injectable, Beautifil 2, enamel and dentin.

 

Conclusion:

All materials tested had radiopacity values greater than dentin and had sufficient radiopacity to meet International Organization for Standardization 4049 standard.

 

Key Words: Radiopacity, aluminum stepwedge, composites, opacifing-fillers.
Sokratska autonomija i sofistička manipulacija u moralnom odgoju
Authors: Guć Josip
Published: July 2023

U ovom radu pokušavam naznačiti određene elemente Sokratove filozofije kojima bi se odgojna praksa trebala voditi, kao i neke štetne implikacije sofističkog pristupa odgoju. Pri analizi Sokratove pozicije osobito se oslanjam na Vlastosove interpretacije, a posebice se osvrćem na Sokratovu tezu da se vrlina ne može poučavati. Pored ostaloga, ona upućuje na nedoktrinarni pristup moralno-odgojnoj praksi, kakav ne može proizaći iz suprotnih Protagorinih uvjerenja. Partikularno i utilitarno usmjeren odgoj kod sofista danas se osobito javlja u odgojnom (ili bolje: manipulatorskom) prijenosu nacionalnih, poslovnih i sličnih tobožnjih etika, nemoćnih po pitanju prepoznavanja i prevladavanja postojećih društveno-ekonomskih okvira, a za što Sokratova moralno-odgojna filozofija sadrži kritičku snagu koja prvenstveno proizlazi iz implicitnog naglaska na autonomiji.
Konstrukcija i validacija Upitnika o poučavanju za kritičko mišljenje
Authors: Buchberger Iva
Published: July 2023

Ovaj rad predstavlja preliminarno testiranje valjanosti i pouzdanosti novokonstruiranog anketnog upitnika Upitnik o poučavanju za kritičko mišljenje. Konceptualno se u radu polazi od generičkog modela poučavanja za kritičko mišljenje i njegovih ključnih dimenzija. U istraživanju je sudjelovalo 209 nastavnika i edukatora (formalnog i neformalnog obrazovanja) u Republici Hrvatskoj. Sudionici istraživanja ispunjavali su mrežni anketni upitnik. Oblikovanje čestica Upitnika pratilo je navedeni generički model poučavanja. Početna verzija Upitnika sadržavala je 46 čestica, a nakon provedenih analiza zadržano je 36 čestica. Provedena je eksploratorna faktorska analiza s ciljem provjere generičkog modela poučavanja za kritičko mišljenje i preliminarnog validiranja novokonstruiranog instrumenta istraživanja Upitnika o poučavanju za kritičko mišljenje. Analizom je ekstrahirano 6 faktora (i konstruirano 6 skala). Pouzdanost svih skala je zadovoljavajuća – izračunati su koeficijenti tipa unutarnje konzistencije Cronbach alfa koji se kreću od .73 do .92. Provedenom analizom učinjeni su prvi istraživački koraci u validaciji anketnog upitnika o poučavanju za kritičko mišljenje čija primjena u budućim istraživanjima može doprinijeti unaprjeđenju poučavanja za kritičko mišljenje u Hrvatskoj, a time i razvoju kompetencije kritičkog mišljenja učenika/studenata/polaznika.
Školska arhitektura tradicionalne škole i njezina implementacija u didaktičko-metodičku organizaciju nastave
Authors: Dubovicki Snježana , Munjiza Emerik
Published: July 2023

U radu je istražena veza između školske arhitekture i didaktičko-metodičke organizacije nastave u uvjetima tradicionalne (stare) škole. Školska arhitektura analizirana je u području školskih zgrada (učionica i opreme) i školskog okružja (igrališta s posebnim naglaskom na školske vrtove). Tradicionalna (stara) škola u hrvatskim uvjetima vremenski je određena od uvođenja državnog javnog školstva (Opći školski red, 1774.) do tridesetih godina XX. stoljeća. Istraživanje se temelji na analizi arhivske i objavljene građe, recentne i relevantne literature te terenskog istraživanja koje je provedeno na školskom području Velike Kopanice u dva navrata (1980. i 2021. godine). U istraživanju je korištena deskriptivna i post kauzalna metoda pri čemu je utvrđena veza između školske arhitekture i didaktičko-metodičke organizacije nastave. Školske zgrade (učionice), školske klupe i oprema uz veliki broj učenika u razredu ograničili su didaktičko-metodičku organizaciju nastave unutar tradicionalne nastave (frontalna, verbalna, pasivna za učenike, asocijalna i represivna). Istovremeno, školsko okružje s posebnim naglaskom na školske vrtove otvara niz mogućnosti koje su karakteristične za pokret nove škole: grupni i individualni oblici, samorad i aktivnost učenika, socijalizacija i suradnički odnosi, povezivanje teorije s praktičnim radom. Školski vrtovi omogućavaju unošenje dijela prirode u učionice pružajući učenicima zornost, sustavno promatranje i početak intelektualne spoznaje. Školska arhitektura u direktnoj je vezi s didaktičko-metodičkom organizacijom nastave. Pitanje je kako je moguće da i u suvremenoj školskoj arhitekturi ima niz oblika karakterističnih za tradicionalnu (staru) školu?
Medijska didaktika: jučer, danas, sutra
Authors: Topolovčan Tomislav
Published: July 2023

Teorijsko-komparativnim i povijesnim metodološkim pristupom dekonstruirana je geneza medijske didaktike s ciljem dobivanja uvida u njenu povijest, obilježja, definiranje discipline i recentne trendove razvoja. U studiji je elaborirana uloga medija u obrazovanju, školovanju, nastavi, učenju i poučavanju. Sustavno je objašnjena anatomija društvenih okolnosti nastanka pojedinih kurikulumskih inovacija i njihovih konzekvenci za globalno obrazovanje te na razvoj medijske didaktike. Sintezom dobivenih činjenica iz analiziranih koncepata evidentno je kako je na razvoj medijske didaktike djelovao koncept nastavne tehnologije prenesen iz SAD-a, kao i niz društvenih te tehnoloških čimbenika. Teorijska i praktična esencija medijske didaktike etablirana je u primjeni raznih medija sa svrhom aranžiranja individualizirane, tj. učeniku usmjerene nastave. Obilježja i uloga medija u nastavi su se vremenom mijenjala sukladno dominantnim didaktičkim teorijama. Krucijalan izazov za medijsku didaktiku predviđa se u vidu primjene umjetne inteligencije u obrazovanju i školovanju.
『Dabo』 Written by Jugueon: Study on the Tea Culture Based on the Thought of Similarity between Tea and the Life of Reclusion: Focusing on the 「Seo」 Section
Authors:   Association for International Tea Culture, Chung Myung-hee
Published: July 2023

The representative text 『Dabo』 from the early Ming dynasty is a book that describes the inner thoughts and perception of tea in the life of hermit through personifying the tea and comparing its virtues to human, which had to be inevitably chosen in accordance with the historical circumstances, unlike the Confucian scholars of the Tang and Song dynasties. The form of Jugueon’s reclusion embodies the philosophy of both Confucian scholars and Taoist scholars. As a member of royal family, he sought to avoid the power struggles of the troubled royal court by adopting a prudent and protective stance for self-preservation and aspired to a life of pursuing inner cultivation of spontaneous wandering. In the section titled 「Seo」 the author describes the deep inner thoughts as a hermit and the life of reclusion in harmony with tea . Internally, it expresses the author's inner feelings of pursuing a Confucian aesthetic by sublimating the virtues of tea and radiating the brilliance of a gentle and modest attitude, while also portraying the passion and madness of wanting to pour out one's emotions to the world without hesitation, drawing them into a deep and wide personal world without inadequacy. Externally, it reveals the author's desire to distance himself from the secular world through the culture of playing and engaging with tea culture. Through the philosophy of Jugueon's reclusion depicted in 『Dabo』, one can discern the characteristics of tea culture in the Ming dynasty, distinct from that of the Song dynasty.
Staff Turnover in National Non-governmental Organizations (NNGOs) in South Sudan: 2011-2021
Authors: Michael Ale Peter
Published: July 2023

The high turnover of staff is unhealthy for the smooth running of institutions since it affects the growth, profitability, beneficiary satisfaction and general reputation of the institution whenever it occurs in the workplace. This study focused on studying staff turnover in national non-governmental organizations in South Sudan. This was a qualitative study which adopted descriptive survey research design, which allowed the researcher to use semi-structured questionnaires when collecting the data. The survey method used in this study because the target population only composed of 30 employees from 30 organizations in South Sudan. The study employed purposive, sampling and convenience sampling techniques. A high response rate of 100% obtained. The study revealed that, poor renumerations and lack or inadequate fringe benefits, autocratic leadership style in which the manager retaining as much power and decision-making authority is more prevalent in NNGOs leading to staff turnover and poor working conditions contributed to staff turnover in national non-governmental organizations in South Sudan. The recommendations for this study are based on the observation of the data as reflected in the histograms, pie charts and tables under each research objective. The study therefore recommended that the management should improve the working conditions for the employees by ensuring a hazard free and safe environment, improving salaries, which also enhances efficiency and productivity. Management of national non-governmental organizations should improve their leadership styles by embracing transformational leadership. Keywords: Staff Turnover, Salary & Fringe benefits, Leadership styles, Poor working Conditions.
An Assessment of Multidimensional Poverty Trends in Ghana
Authors: Henneh Ofori Frimpong
Published: July 2023

This study aims at establishing the trends in multidimensional poverty in Ghana from 2011 to 2020 using intertemporal and counting approach. Alkire and Foster methodology was applied to identify and analyse the data. The study adopted the global multidimensional poverty indicators made up of three dimensions – health, education, and standard of living – and the ten indicators of which equal weights are attached to each dimension, and the same weights for the indicators within each dimension. It was found that Ghana did very well in reducing multidimensional poverty in all the six indicators within the standard of living dimension both in absolute and relative terms. However, the nation increased its multidimensional poverty in education and health dimensions. The Northern region continues to be the poorest region with the lowest reduction in multidimensional poverty in absolute and relative terms. Overall, multidimensional poverty reduced significantly both in absolute and relative terms at the national and regional levels. As compared with Sub-Saharan Africa, Ghana performed better in decreasing multidimensional poverty than the mean of the sub-region in almost all the dimensions and indicators, both in absolute and relative terms. Government should sustain this feat and improve upon it to eliminate poverty in all its forms by 2030 as envisaged by Sustainable Development Goal 1. Government must invest heavily in education and health as well as agriculture and rural development to reduce poverty. Strategy that targets the poorest regions should be implemented to reduce poverty. Keywords: Multidimensional poverty, Headcount poverty, Monetary poverty, Trends, Ghana.
Insertion of One-third Tubular Plate for Hemiepiphysiodesis in Children: Surgical Technique
Authors: Faris IP
Published: July 2023

Limb length discrepancy and angular deformities are among the main issues in paediatric patients. There are various ways to manage these two problems which includes growth modulation with eight-Plate. For certain reasons, the use of the eight-Plate is limited, thus conventional plates have been selected for the guided growth, for example two-hole one-third tubular plate or reconstruction plate. Literatures reported good results on its use but none of them explained the surgical technique in details. Therefore, we proposed the surgical technique of inserting the two-hole one-third tubular plate in hemiepiphysiodesis in children, which includes pre-skin incision preparation, placement of one-third tubular plate and screw insertion. The three steps are surgeon-friendly and less demanding, being suitable to apply to paediatric patients that require growth modulation. Keywords: Angular deformity, Hemiepiphysiodesis, One-third tubular plate, Limb length discrepancy.