bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HCI and Data: Interacting in a New Era of Virtualization
Authors: Blanco Iván Durango , Lázaro José Antonio Gallud , Penichet Victor M. Ruiz
Published: May 2024

This article explores the intricate relationship between Human-Data Interaction (HDI) and Data Virtualization (DV), two integral fields that are redefining how we engage with and manage data in the digital age. Positioned at the intersection of technology and user-centric design, this study examines how DV can transcend traditional data management boundaries to significantly enhance data accessibility, legibility, and agency, thus fostering more ethical and meaningful interactions across various sectors. Opening with a detailed exposition on the evolving role of HDI, the paper contextualizes the importance of user-centric data practices within contemporary digital challenges. HDI’s principles are pivotal as they advocate for user empowerment in data interactions, ensuring that data processes are not only transparent but also negotiable and aligned with users’ needs and ethical standards. DV emerges as a transformative solution that inherently supports these principles by integrating diverse data sources into a cohesive and accessible format, thereby eliminating many of the inefficiencies found in conventional data management systems. Through a series of nuanced case studies, the paper provides empirical evidence of DV’s effectiveness across diverse domains. In healthcare, DV facilitates a holistic approach to patient care by providing seamless access to comprehensive medical records, thereby enabling faster, more accurate diagnostic and treatment processes. In the financial sector, DV proves instrumental in enhancing the detection and management of fraud, integrating transactional data across global platforms in real-time to allow for swift, proactive interventions. In education, DV supports personalized learning by synchronizing data from various educational tools, thus allowing for tailored educational experiences that respond dynamically to student performance and engagement metrics. Moreover, the paper critically addresses the ethical considerations and privacy concerns that arise with the integration of HDI and DV, particularly as data interactions become more pervasive and complex. By proposing forward-thinking research directions, it seeks to refine these technologies to better serve societal needs while addressing potential risks and governance issues. In conclusion, this study significantly contributes to the discourse on HDI by advocating for DV as an essential, innovative tool that enhances the clarity, fairness, and efficacy of data interactions. By demonstrating how DV can transform large-scale data sets into user-friendly formats that support decision-making and improve operational efficiencies, the paper underscores DV’s potential to advance a range of industries and enhance the daily lives of individuals interacting with digital systems.
Young Consumers’ Price Perceptions in Purchasing Foods: Evidence from Greece
Authors: Kalyva Zoi C. , Kosma Ioanna. S. , Skalkos Dimitris
Published: May 2024

The recent consecutive economic and social crises impose sustainable “form farm to fork” food chain management to feed the global population. In this study we investigate young consumers (Gen Z) price perceptions in purchasing foods in Greece to find out the determinants ensuring sustainable, future food consumption. We used 8 overall price perceptions determinants, 5 with negative roles namely value & price consciousness, coupon & sales proneness, price mavenism and 3 with positive roles namely price-quality, price-value, and prestige-sensitivity for the formation of the study’s questionnaire. A total of 514 students (Gen Z by 85%) answered the questionnaire, promoted through the Google platform during September and October 2023. Data was analyzed with statistical tools, combining cross and chi-square tests. Between the negative determinants the “value consciousness” price perceptions (71.02%) were the most important parameters in purchasing food, followed by “price consciousness” (55.02%) parameters. “Coupon proneness” by 48.4% and “sales proneness” by 49% parameters were equally lower to the participants’ references, while “price mavenism” parameters were minimally preferred by only 26.4% by the participants. Participants exhibited major preference for “value to price” interconnection (66.7%) such as for good value for money, value exceeding its price, overvalued low priced foods, while their preference for “quality to price” interconnection was significantly lower (48.8%) such as for getting what you pay, more money for better quality, priced quality foods. The “prestige- sensitivity” price perception was out of their preference for food purchase (only 7.1%). Our findings indicate that young consumers (Gen Z) pay more attention to the value negative and positive parameters concerning price perceptions for food purchase rather than quality, coupons & sales, low price, and mavenism or even prestige of the foods. This means that value issues such as the perceived environmental impact (green value), the climate crisis, the social signaling potential and others are high in their concerns for their future including their price perceptions for food purchase.
Study on Spatial Spillover Effect of Forest Carbon Sink Efficiency in China considering Multiple Output Benefits
Authors: Huang Yan , Chen Siting , Wang Jiawei , Lin Jinhuang
Published: May 2024

Forests have multifunctional roles. They not only increase forest carbon sinks through afforestation and management, but also indirectly realize multiple benefits of "economy + ecology + society". Therefore, we construct a multiple output-benefit system of forest carbon sinks based on the development of forest carbon sinks in provinces of China. This system is also able to distinguish the importance of forest carbon sinks from other outputs. For the efficiency evaluation of multi-level output systems, this paper constructs a cross-evaluation model based on evidential reasoning method, the original efficiency information by conducting efficiency evaluation before information fusion. Further, the spillover effects and influencing factors of forest carbon sink efficiency are analyzed through a spatial regression model to explore the spatial characteristics of forest carbon sink efficiency in China. The results show that: (1) there is a large gap between the cross-efficiency levels of forest carbon sinks in various regions of China, with significant spatial correlation. For the perspective of direct output benefits, the cross-efficiency of the eastern region is higher, while the cross-efficiency of the northwestern region is lower; for the perspective of indirect output benefits, the cross-efficiency of the southeastern region is higher. (2) China's forest carbon sink has a significant positive spillover effect, and the indirect output cross-efficiency has a significant negative impact on the forest carbon sink in its own region. Further analyzing the impact of indirect output cross-efficiency, it is found that the cross-efficiency of the ecological dimension and the cross-efficiency of the social dimension have a significant negative impact on the forest carbon sink in its own region, and the economic dimension has a significant positive impact on the forest carbon sink in its own region. In conclusion, corresponding policy recommendations are proposed for the development of forest carbon sinks to promote the realization of the dual-carbon goal.
Unraveling the Water Source and Formation Process of Huangshui in Solid-State Fermentation
Authors: Ren Zhiqiang , Chen Qiuxu , Tang Tuoxian , Huang Zhiguo
Published: May 2024

Strong-aroma Baijiu is a traditional Chinese spirit distilled from grains that undergo solid-state fermentation. At the end of each fermentation cycle, a significant quantity of Huangshui accumulates at the bottom of the fermentation pit, constituting one of the primary by-products in the brewing process of strong-flavor liquor. In this report, the chemical component analysis of Huangshui obtained from a strong-flavor liquor factory revealed a diverse array of organic acids, alcohols, esters, starch, reducing sugars, amino acids, and other compounds present in Huangshui. Additionally, two specialized solid-state fermentation models were developed to investigate the formation process of Huangshui. Our findings demonstrate a positive correlation between the yield of Huangshui and the initial moisture content of fermented grains. It is concluded that Huangshui is the percolate produced during the solid-state brewing process of strong-flavor liquor, with its water content originating from the initial moisture of fermented grains.
Geographical and Climatic Variation of Pinus oocarpa Resin in Southern Mexico Provenances
Authors: Velasco-García Mario Valerio , Hernández-Hernández Adán
Published: May 2024

In Mexico there is a deficit in the production of pine resin, because it depends on natural forests. Therefore, it is necessary to select provenances and phenotypes of potential species such as P. oocarpa. The objective was to determine the difference between provenances and the variation of resin components and quality, as well as the effect of geographic and climatic factors. Resin from five provenances was collected from southern Mexico. The percentage of rosin, turpentine and water was obtained, as well as the acidity and saponification index. P. oocarpa resin had 80.94 % rosin, 7.7 % turpentine and 11.49 % water. The saponification and acidity index was 125.47 and 117.49 mg KOH.g_1, respectively. All variables showed differences (p≤ 0.0001) between provenances. The provenance contributed between 6.44 and 11.71 % to the total variance, the error contributed between 88.29 and 93.56 %. Geographic and climatic variables only had an effect on the percentage of turpentine; the correlation was negative with altitude and longitude, but positive with temperature and precipitation. The results allow defining seed collection sites for resin plantations and orienting the selection for a P. oocarpa improvement program.
Unmasking Antifungal Might: Anacardium occidentale Leaf Extract Unleashes Mitochondrial Disruption, Thwarting Candida albicans with Heightened Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Quejada Luis F , Hernandez Andrea X , Chitiva Luis Carlos , Bravo-Chaucanés Claudia P , Vargas-Casnova Yerly , Faria Robson Xavier , Costa Geison M , Parra-Giraldo Claudia M
Published: May 2024

Invasive fungal disease causes high morbidity and mortality among immunocompromised patients. Anti-fungal drug resistance and cytotoxicity highlight the need for effective antifungal therapeutics. In this study, the antifungal potential of the ethanolic extract of Anacardium occidentale (Cashew Leaf) leaves were evaluated against Candida albicans and C. auris. The antifungal activity was tested by the broth microdilution method and growth kinetic test. To further explore its antifungal action mode, spectrofluorophotometry, confocal microscopy and scanning and transmission electron microscopy were performed, Additionally, heterozygous knockout strains associated with resistance to oxidative stress were included in the study. We found that A. occidentale could inhibit the proliferation and growth of C. albicans at concentrations of 62.5 and 125 μg/mL. the doubling time was also drastically affected, going from 2.8 hours to 22.5 hours. Which was also observed in C. auris. The extract induced the accumulation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS), resulting in endoplasmic reticulum stress and mitochondrial dysfunction, while it did not show cy-totoxicity or hemolytic activity at the concentrations evaluated. Our work preliminarily elucidated the po-tential mechanisms of A. occidentale against C. albicans on a cellular level and might provide a promising op-tion for the design of a new treatment for invasive candidiasis
A Review and Meta-analysis of Semantic Segmentation Models in Land Use/ Land Cover Mapping
Authors: Ajibola Segun , Cabral Pedro
Published: May 2024

Recent advancements in deep learning have spurred the development of numerous novel semantic segmentation models for land cover mapping, showcasing exceptional performance in delineating precise boundaries and producing highly accurate land cover maps. However, to date, no systematic literature review has comprehensively examined semantic segmentation models in the context of land cover mapping. This paper addresses this gap by synthesizing recent advancements in semantic segmentation models for land cover mapping from 2017 to 2023, drawing insights on trends, data sources, model structures, and performance metrics based on a review of 106 extracted articles. Our analysis identifies top journals in the field, including MDPI Remote Sensing, IEEE Journal of Selected Topics in Earth Science, and IEEE Transactions on Geoscience and Remote Sensing, IEEE Geoscience and Remote Sensing Letters, ISPRS Journal Of Photogrammetry And Remote Sensing as the leading journals. We find that research predominantly focuses on land cover, urban areas, precision agriculture, environment, coastal areas, and forests. Geographically, 35.29% of the study areas are located in China, followed by USA (11.76%), France (5.88 %), Spain (4%) and others. Sentinel-2, Sentinel-1, and Landsat satellites emerge as the most commonly used data sources. Benchmark datasets such as ISPRS Vaihingen & Potsdam, LandCover.ai, DeepGlobe, and GID datasets are frequently employed. Model architectures predominantly utilize encoder-decoder, and hybrid convolutional neural network-based structures because of their impressive performances, with limited adoption of transformer-based architectures due to its computational complexity issue, and slow convergence speed. Lastly, this paper highlights existing key research gaps in the field to guide future research directions.
Efficacy of Commercial Biocontrol Products for Management of Verticillium and Fusarium Wilt in Greenhouse Tomatoes: Impact on Disease Severity, Fruit Yield, and Quality
Authors: Tsolakidou Maria-Dimitra , Demetriou Georgia , Panagiotou Sotiria , Vassiliou Loukia , Goulas Vlasios , Pantelides Iakovos
Published: May 2024

Verticillium dahliae (Vd) and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (Fol) are two major fungal pathogens that infect tomato plants, causing significant challenges in their control since both pathogens can persist in the soil for several years even in the absence of a host plant and no effective fungicides are available at present. This study investigated the efficacy of two biocontrol formulations, Clonotri and Strepse, against Vd and Fol, and their impact on tomato fruit quality and yield under greenhouse conditions. Pathogenicity experiment demonstrated that the Clonotri formulation, containing Trichoderma and Clonostachys spores, significantly reduced Fusarium wilt disease by 32% compared to the control group. However, in Vd pathogenicity experiment, the formulations did not exhibit disease reduction, although the treatment with Strepse, containing Streptomyces and Pseudomonas microorganisms, resulted in preserved total fruit number when compared to uninfected plants. Analysis of fruit quality attributes revealed no significant differences among the various interventions. Furthermore, Fol infection in the first fruit set significantly increased fruit firmness, while Vd infection resulted in elevated levels of total soluble solids in fruits. These findings demonstrate that the evaluated biocontrol formulations provide a degree of protection against fungal wilt pathogens in tomato plants and can increase yield in greenhouse conditions, while having minimal impact on overall fruit quality attributes.
An Overview of Cardiovascular Risk in Pituitary Disorders
Authors: Ntali Georgia , Markussis Vyron , Chrisoulidou Alexandra
Published: May 2024

Cardiovascular morbidities are the main cause of mortality in pituitary disorders accruing either from hormonal excess or deficiency. Cushing disease is associated with various cardiovascular abnormalities;visceral obesity, insulin resistance, atherosclerosis, arterial hypertension, dyslipidaemia and hypercoagulability, structural and functional changes in heart, which do not seem to reverse completely even after remission. Acromegaly is related with insulin resistance, but also with structural and functional heart changes which consist acromegalic cardiomyopathy. Patients with prolactinomas demonstrate an aggravation of metabolic parameters, obesity, dysregulation of glucose and lipid metabolism and endothelial dysfunction. On the other hand, hypopituitarism and conventional hormonal replacement which is far from ideal contribute to an unhealthy metabolic status which leads to atherosclerosis and premature mortality. This review aims to update literature on cardiovascular risk and relevant morbidities in pituitary disorders.
Fishery and reproductive biology of the spotted sardinella Amblygaster sirm (Walbaum, 1972) exploited along the southern coast of India
Authors: S. Surya  , G. Angel  , M. K. Anil  , Y. Dispin Das  , T. M. Najmudeen  , R. Siju  , P. R. Shaila  , M. Febna  , E. M. Abdussamad  , Prathibha Rohit
Published: May 2024

The study focused on the fishery and biological aspects of the spotted sardinellaAmblygaster sirm (Walbaum, 1972) exploited along the southern coast of India from 2015to 2020. The summary of the fishery reveals noticeable annual fluctuations in landing, withpeak landings reported from November to March along the coast. The study included fishwith total length (TL) ranging from 149 to 208 mm in males and 152 to 217 mm in females.The peak in gonadosomatic Index (GSI) in January indicates its spawning season, and Lm50was estimated at 172 mm TL in females. The sex ratio (F: M) was determined at 1:1.2, withmales dominating most months. Fecundity ranged from 11632 to 43200 eggs per spawning.Five stages of maturity in A. sirm were identified through external analysis of gonads. Sevenhistological ovarian stages of A.sirm were recorded, providing a primary reference forfuture studies. These findings aim to assist fishery managers and policymakers in adoptingeffective management practices for the sustainable harvesting of this resource.
 
Keywords:Amblygaster sirm, Gonadosomatic index, Sex ratio,Fecundity, Lm50, Histology
Analysis of bycatches from mid-water trawl fishery targeting ribbonfish Trichiurus lepturus on the north-west coast of India
Authors: P. Abdul Azeez  , Prathibha Rohit  , Latha Shenoy  , Ashok Kumar Jaiswar  , K. Mohammed Koya  , Vinay Kumar Vase  , D. Divu
Published: May 2024

Commercial trawl fisheries are closely associated with bycatch and discards and itsignificantly affects the non-target resources, biodiversity, ecosystem function and habitat.The present study analysed bycatch based on data obtained from commercially operatedmultiday midwater trawlers operating off the north-west coast of India during August2017-December 2019. The data revealed that bycatch and discards constituted about 53and 6% respectively of the trawl catch. Mid-water trawl bycatch comprised 92 Teleosts,8 Cephalopods, 12 Crustaceans and 11 Elasmobranch species. The bycatch is mainlycomprised of cuttlefishes, squids, threadfin breams, sciaenids, bullseye and lizardfishes.Further, 93.68% of the bycatch consisted of commercially important fish, hence it wasretained in the vessel. The bycatch rate was high in September (72.81±37.44 kg h-1) whereas,for discards, it was in August (16.25±10.84 kg h-1).
 
Keywords:Arabian Sea. Bycatch, Discard, Midwater trawl,Ribbonfish
Macrognathus aral (Bloch and Schneider 1801): Growth, condition, age, mortality, recruitment and exploitation in running and stagnant ecosystems in Gandak Basin, India
Authors: Kumar Ravi , A. K. Jaiswar  , Laxmi Prasad  , Sarma Kamal , Asha T. Landge  , B.B. Nayak  , Ahirwal S. K. , K.G. Mandal
Published: May 2024

Growth and fishery of Macrognathus aral were studied from an oxbow lake Matwali-Majhariyamaun and the river Dhanauti in Gandak Basin, India based on 367 and 451 specimenscollected from the oxbow lake and the river, respectively through weekly sampling fromJune 2020 to May 2021 . The length-weight relationship revealed negative allometric growth(b<3.0) as W= 0.0051*L (2.82) in lake and W= 0.0045*L (2.85) in the river. The relative conditionfactor Kn was found to be ≈1.0 in both the ecosystems. The age at length zero and themaximum age Tmax were estimated to be -0.312 year and 9.4 years in the lake and -0.328year and 8.8 years in the river respectively. Growth parameters L∞ and ‘K’ were estimatedto be 37.7 cm and 0.32 year-1 in the lake, and 34.3 cm and 0.34 year-1 in the river, indicatingslow growing nature of the species. The mortality rates ‘M’ ‘Z’ and ‘F’ were determined tobe 0.78, 0.95 and 0.17 per year in lake and 0.81, 97 and 0.16 per year in river. Recruitmentanalysis showed a single peak during August in both the ecosystems. Lopt was estimatedas 20.8 cm in lake and 19.2 cm in river. Virtual population analysis (VPA) revealed highestfishing mortality observed in the length groups above 30.0 cm in both the ecosystems. Theoptimum level of exploitation (E0.5) was found to be 0.32 in lake and 0.34 in river, which waslesser than the current level of exploitation. The above finding will be useful for sustainablemanagement and conservation of the species.
Keywords:Age, Exploitation, Gandak Basin, Growth, Mortality,Macrognathus aral, Recruitment
Rethinking assessment? Research into the affective impact of higher education grading
Authors: Currant Neil , Bunting Liz , Hill Vikki , Salines Emily
Published: May 2024

Assessment plays a central role in learning in higher education (HE), but often the impact of grading assessment on student motivation, behaviour and wellbeing is insufficiently considered in policy and practice. With the growing concern in the HE sector about student mental health, a consideration of the affective dimension of grading is timely. The discussion in this paper on the affective dimension of grading is based on research conducted during the pandemic on the ‘no-detriment’ implementation of pass/fail assessment at the University of the Arts London (UAL). Qualitative research was undertaken with first-and second-year undergraduate students in the fields of creative arts, design and communication to investigate the effects of the switch from letter grading to pass/fail and student views on grading more generally. Our findings suggest that grading affects student stress, anxiety, learner identity, motivation, student self-expression, creativity, and peer relationships. In the light of our findings, we bring together discourses about assessment, grading and student wellbeing to consider the longer-term implications for assessment practices in a post-pandemic world.
Novel Resin-Coated Sand Placement Design Guidelines for Controlling Proppant Flowback Post-Slickwater Hydraulic Fracturing Treatments
Authors: Tarek Mohamed , Leung Jada
Published: May 2024

Resin-coated sand (RCS) is an effective way for controlling post-stimulation proppant flowback. However, with the shift to slickwater treatment fluids, the “tail-in” placement approach has proved to be less efficient for complete flowback control due to the proppant settling characteristics of using low-viscosity fluids. A new RCS placement approach was developed based on the results of several flowback studies. Trial wells were completed in different US basins with successful results.

Proppant flowback samples were collected during different stages of drillout and production from wells using slickwater fluid systems. Thirty-five wells, completed by thirteen different operators, within the Permian and MidCon basins were evaluated. All wells were completed using multiple proppant mesh sizes. A total of 375 flowback samples were collected during the drillout and production phases. The samples were sieved, and the results were fed into an in-house material balance model to determine the percentages of different mesh sizes in the flowback samples. The conclusions were used as guidelines for a new placement approach implemented in multiple new wells to control proppant flowback.

The flowback samples ranged from predominantly lead proppant to a similar proportion of the pumped mesh sizes. Not one of the 35 wells had flowback samples containing the majority tail-in mesh size. This supports the early sand dune assumption, suggesting that the early proppant forms dunes near the wellbore and late sand settles over the existing proppant beds. The use of late RCS appears to have a minimal effect on preventing flowback of the early proppant within a stage utilizing slickwater fracturing. Therefore, RCS efficiency to control proppant flowback with the tail-in method is reduced when used in such slickwater stimulations. To seal the different proppant beds, the new approach recommends pumping multiple RCS steps within a stage. The first RCS step is recommended within the first 10–20%, the second sequence within the first 40–60% of proppant volume, and the third as a tail-in. The exact percentages and step design were based on the results of flowback samples from neighboring wells. The implementation of this approach in more than 30 wells resulted in superior flowback control compared to offset control wells. In all trials, the proppant flowback completely stopped within 1 to 7 days of starting production.

In this paper, we discuss the drawbacks of the current RCS placement practice while suggesting a new practical approach supported by data. RCS tail-in showed successful flowback control with viscous fracturing fluids and hybrid systems. For slickwater systems, an optimized placement design for RCS throughout the pump schedule provided enhanced flowback control compared to RCS tail-in. Finally, we illustrate the results of field trials in which utilizing the new RCS placement approach successfully reduced flowback.
Enhancing Mendelian Randomization Causal Inference through Pleiotropic Clustering in the Presence of Correlated Horizontal Pleiotropy
Authors: Li Miaoxin , Tang Bin , Lin Nan , Liang Junhao , Zhang Liubin , Peng Wenjie , Xue Chao
Published: May 2024

Correlated horizontal pleiotropy poses a formidable challenge in Mendelian randomization (MR). Existing methods, relying on sparse pleiotropic variants or zero modal pleiotropy assumption (ZEMPA), may face issues, especially in trait pairs with a high proportion of correlated horizontal pleiotropic variants. We propose an innovative Pleiotropic Clustering model for MR analysis (PCMR) to cluster instrument variables with horizontal or vertical pleiotropic effects. Our simulations showed that PCMR had superior performance in isolating causal effects and detecting correlated horizontal pleiotropy. Moreover, PCMR's causal evaluation extended the ZEMPA and can control false positives in correlated horizontal pleiotropy, even with a high proportion. Applied to real datasets, PCMR detected 15% (8 of 48) trait pairs significant with correlated pleiotropy in common diseases and further enhanced causal inference. Notably, PCMR elucidated why existing methods might overlook the established causal link between smoking behavior and type 2 diabetes. It also confirmed the considered non-causal relationship between high-density lipoprotein and coronary artery disease, and revealed potential non-causal relationships, such as from schizophrenia to major depressive disorder, offering new insights into complex disease mechanisms.
Evaluation of Iraq’s National Plan to Control Hepatitis B Virus: Identifying Gaps and Strategies for Improvement
Authors: Jalal Mohammed A. , Karami Manoochehr , Namdari Mahshid , Lami Faris , Taher Taqi Mohammed Jwad , Etemad Koorosh
Published: May 2024

Background: Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection remains a significant public health concern in Iraq, this study was to understand the temporal and demographic patterns of HBV infection incidence rates (IRs) in Iraq and to evaluate the effectiveness of the national plan to control of HBV in terms of vaccination coverage, prevention of mother-to-child transmission (MTCT), blood safety, diagnosis, and treatment.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study design to analyze the descriptive epidemiology profile of HBV in Iraq. National-level data from 2015 to 2022 for different governorates. The evaluation phase focused on the Wasit governorate, which includes 24 primary health care centers (PHCCs). Statistical tests, included t tests, ANOVA, and chi-square tests, were conducted using SPSS and Excel to identify significant patterns in the data.
Results: The IRs of HBV decreased over the period. with higher rates among males and significant variations across governorates. IRs were highest among individuals aged 15-45 and over. The plan successfully achieved high vaccination coverage but faced challenges in diagnosing viral hepatitis B. The evaluation scores for PHCCs varied, 88% falling within the acceptable range.
Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology of HBV in Iraq, highlighting declining IRs and significant demographic variations. Although there has been success in vaccination coverage, challenges persist in achieving viral hepatitis B diagnosis targets. The evaluation of PHCCs indicates areas for improvement in healthcare service delivery. These findings offer valuable insights for targeted interventions and policy adjustments, ultimately aiding in effectively controlling and preventing HBV in Iraq.
A study on the production of hydrogen-enriched fuel through a water gas shift reactor integrated with a biomass gasifier
Authors: Makavana J. M. , Chauhan P. M. , Dulawat M. S.
Published: May 2024

The efficiency of the catalyst was investigated in relation to temperature, gas hourly space velocity, the ratio of steam to carbon monoxide, hydrogen sulfide (H2S) loading, and tar concentration. This review paper emphases on the reaction of Fe/Cr catalyst under a high-temperature water gas shift reaction (WGSR) in a pilot plant. The high amount of tar availability in the producer gas(Syngas), has the inverse relation with hydrogen gas production, and lead to deteriorate the quality of syngas or vice-versa. The previous studies stated that increasing the reaction temperature enhance the higher rate of conversion of carbon mono-oxide (CO), clean Hydrogen (H2) gas production, and out gas flow rates. The conversion of CO was not considerably affected by the molar ratio of steam, but it was. When exposed to H2S poisoning, the Fe/Cr catalyst shown strong deactivation resistance, whereas Reactor 2 displayed balanced H2S adsorption and desorption. Additionally, neither catalytic cracking from reformation nor fouling from deposition of tar, was spotted on the catalytic surface. The findings shows that the Fe/Cr catalyst was reliable and deactivation resistant, making it an excellent choice for implement in the high-temperature Water Gas Shifting process. This review article will be advance our knowledge in the area of syngas conversion through biomass gasification process and contribute in the design of reliable and effective catalytic systems for hydrogen gas synthesis process.
Elevated levels of Protein S in Multiple Myeloma bone marrow microenvironment regulate tumor progression and bone disease
Authors: Engelmann Janik , Waizenegger Jonas , Riecken Kristoffer , Fehse Boris , Weinhold Niels , Raab Marc , Hesse Eric , Taipaleenmäki Hanna , Pantel Klaus , Bokemeyer Carsten , Ben-Batalla Isabel , Loges Sonja
Published: May 2024

The TAM (TYRO3, AXL, and MERTK) family of receptor tyrosine kinases exhibit cell-transforming capacity promoting tumorigenesis, metastasis and therapy-resistance in various cancer entities. GAS6-MERTK axis represents a target in Multiple Myeloma (MM) to inhibit tumor progression. We sought to explore the role of the alternative TAM receptor ligand Protein S (PROS1) in MM. Whereas PROS1 gene was not expressed by majority of MM plasma cells in a clinical cohort, PROS1 protein levels were increased in bone marrow (BM) plasma samples of MM patients. We could identify a negative regulatory function of PROS1 in MM plasma cells. Treatment of MM cells with PROS1 inhibited MM growth in vitro and PROS1 overexpression in U266 cell line inhibited MM progression in vivo. PROS1 upregulated AXLleading to an adhesive and quiescent myeloma cell phenotype in vitro, suggesting BM retention of MM plasma cells in vivo by PROS1-AXL axis. In addition to directly regulating myeloma plasma cell features, PROS1 interweaves with the disease-promoting myeloma BM microenvironment. We identified an IL-6–PROS1 crosstalk between osteoblasts and MM cells leading to inflammatory IL-6 cytokine signaling in osteoblasts via regulation of SOCS expression. Moreover, PROS1 promoted osteoclast differentiation of BM macrophages via increased SOCS - mediated inhibition of osteoclast - suppressive proinflammatory IL-6 signaling in BM macrophages. Enforced expression of PROS1 in MM plasma cells led to severe osteolytic bone destruction in mice, induced by increased osteoclast formation and suppression of osteoblasts, strengthening the rational for MERTK as a pharmacological target for myeloma bone disease independently from MM tumor burden.
Efficacy of novel insecticides against shoot and fruit borers, Earias spp. in okra
Authors: Singh Bhupender , Gaur Ram Karan , Jakhar Anil
Published: May 2024

Among various insect pests attacking okra, shoot and fruit borers, viz., Earias vittella and E. insulana are highly significant, causing substantial losses to the crop. For effective management of these pests, it is crucial to evaluate insecticides with innovative mode of action. In this context, present study was conducted for two consecutive years to evaluate the efficacy of some novel insecticides viz., chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC, emamectin benzoate 5% SG and pyridalyl 10% EC against Earias spp in comparison to traditional ones such as λ-cyhalothrin 5% EC, cypermethrin 25% EC and quinalphos 25% EC. All the insecticides were applied to okra crop thrice at recommended doses of 25, 6.75, 50, 15, 37, and 200 g a.i. ha− 1, respectively, and observations on infestation (shoot and fruit) and yield of okra fruits were recorded. Results revealed that novel insecticides were more effective than old ones. Chlorantraniliprole exhibiting significant reduction in shoot and fruit infestation and maximum increase in yield of marketable okra fruits was most effective against Earias spp. followed by emamectin benzoate and pyridalyl. In contrast, λ-cyhalothrin, cypermethrin and quinalphos were less effective and more or less on a par with each other. Incremental cost benefit ratio was however, highest in treatment involving emamectin benzoate followed by λ-cyhalothrin and chlorantraniliprole while minimum in treatment involving pyridalyl. Thus, chlorantraniliprole and emamectin benzoate can be used alternatively for the efficient management of Earias spp. in okra.
A retrospective study :myelodysplastic syndrome with t(9;22)(q34; q11)/BCR-ABL1 predicts a poor prognosis
Authors: Li Yanju , Liu Yang , Qi Shasha , Yao Yuhong , Fu Yunqiu , Gong Haomiao , Yang Bo , Huang Yi , Zhan Yun , Li Ya , Liu Ping , Wang Feiqing
Published: May 2024

This study further verified this conclusion by reviewing and comparing prognostic and clinical features of 69 cases with MDS with and without the Ph chromosome. Our research shows that MDS with Ph chromosomes had high white blood cell (WBC) counts (P = 0.007), and both overall survival (OS) and leukemia-free survival (LFS) are short, especially in MDS Ph with additional abnormalities, and Ph chromosome aberration was an independent risk factor for OS and LFS in MDS patients. Importantly, we observed that the Revision of the International Prognostic Scoring System scores (IPSS-R) in the isolated Ph group was significantly lower than that in the abnormal chromosome without Ph group, but OS in the abnormal chromosome without Ph group was longer than that in the isolated Ph group, so Ph chromosome aberration may be an important predictor of poor prognosis in MDS patients, and if it can be included in IPSS-R, it will be a supplement to the current scoring criteria. This study suggests that patients with the Ph chromosome have a high WBC count, a poor prognosis and a high-risk of progression to leukemia, especially those Ph with additional abnormalities. In addition, Ph chromosome may be an important Prognostic factor for poor prognosis of MDS. If it can be included in the Revised International Prognostic Scoring System in the future, it may be a further complement to the existing criteria.
Control Factor Optimization for Friction Stir Processing of AA8090/SiC Surface Composites
Authors: Adiga Karthik , Herbert Mervin A , Rao Shrikantha S , Shettigar Arun Kumar
Published: May 2024

Friction Stir Processing is a state-of-the-art technology for microstructure refinement, material property enhancement, and surface composites fabrication. This investigation concentrates on AA8090/SiC surface composites produced via friction stir processing. Experiments were conducted by varying the following friction stir processing parameters: Tool rotational speed (800–1400 rpm), Tool traverse speed (25–75 mm/min), and Groove width (1.0-1.8 mm). Response measures encompassed Ultimate Tensile Strength and surface roughness. Central Composite Design of Response Surface Methodology designed the experiments and mathematical relationships established between input parameters and ultimate tensile strength and surface roughness. Analysis of variance was used to test the model's adequacy. The models examined individual and interaction effects of input factors on ultimate tensile strength and surface roughness of surface composites. A combinations of input parameters was identified that yields the maximum ultimate tensile strength and minimum surface roughness. Results indicate that increasing tool rotational speed produces well-finished AA8090/SiC surface composites with decreased strength. In contrast, increased tool traverse speed and groove width generate surface composites with rougher surfaces and higher strength. Surface and contour plots further explored the influence of parameter interactions on responses.
Diagnostic Dilemma: Investigating Respiratory Symptoms in a Middle-aged Smoker
Authors: Nezhad Nazanin Zeinali , Fekri Mitra Samareh , Shahpar Amirhossein , Nakhaie Mohsen , Khazaeli Mana , Farrokhnia Mehrdad , Salajegheh Faranak
Published: May 2024

This case report presents a diagnostic challenge encountered in a 65-year-old male admitted with fever, dyspnea, chest pain, and hemoptysis, alongside constitutional symptoms including weight loss, night sweats, and fatigue. Despite initial suspicion for pulmonary thromboembolism and empirical antibiotic therapy for pneumonia, subsequent bronchoscopic evaluation revealed acute necrotizing granulomatous bronchitis, strongly indicative of endobronchial tuberculosis. This diagnosis emphasizes the importance of considering tuberculosis in patients with chronic respiratory symptoms, particularly in high-risk populations. Management involves initiating multidrug antitubercular therapy, close monitoring, infection control measures, and patient education. Prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial in optimizing outcomes and reducing disease burden in tuberculosis.
Dynamic changes of Ct values of N gene and ORF1ab genes and laboratory parameters in patients with COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 B.1, BA.2 and BA.5 variants and their correlation with clinical characteristics
Authors: Yang Wenjing , Chen Taoran , Zhou Qi , Xu Jiancheng
Published: May 2024

This study investigated the patterns of variation in the Ct values of the ORF1ab and N genes in oropharyngeal swabs of COVID-19 patients with different variants and to evaluate their associations with clinical and laboratory parameters. Total of 259 individuals with COVID-19 from 2021 to 2023 in Jilin Province were retrospectively included. Analysis was performed to compare the Ct values of the gene of SARS-CoV-2 in patients, with negative conversion time of nucleic acid, and the levels of blood tests during the patients' hospitalization.The majority of B.1 variant-infected individuals were asymptomatic; the median ORF1ab gene and N gene Ct values in oropharyngeal swabs from heavy patients were the lowest; and all ORF1ab gene Ct values were lower than N gene Ct values; with the longest negative conversion time of nucleic acid in these patients being 18 days.The median Ct values of the ORF1ab gene and the N gene were the highest in BA. 2 variant infected patients, and the Ct values of the ORF1ab gene and the N gene were higher in male patients than in female patients, and the shortest negative conversion time of nucleic acid was 14 days in patients with this variant, and the negative conversion time of nucleic acid was shorter in vaccinated patients than in unvaccinated patients.While the negative conversion time of nucleic acid was similar between BA.2 patients and BA.5 patients, the median Ct values of the ORF1ab and N genes were considerably lower in BA.5 patients than in BA.2 patients. The CREA, WBC, and NE% were significantly higher, and the ALB and LY% were significantly lower in BA.2 and BA.5 patients compared with B.1 patients. With disease aggravation, CREA, NE%, APTT, PT, and D-D increased, and LY% decreased. In conclusion, The most asymptomatic and longest transitional cycles were shown in patients with the ancestral lineage B.1 variation. Patients with the OmicronBA.2 variant showed the highest Ct values for the ORF1ab and N genes, while patients with the BA.2 and BA.5 variants had more serious coagulation and renal impairment.
The Novel Loss-of-function Arg212Trp Mutation in PPARG Causes Familial Partial Lipodystrophy Type 3
Authors: Gao Yuan , zhang cai , song ningyi , fu lina , luo xiaoping , liang yan
Published: May 2024

Background
Familial partial lipodystrophy type 3 (FPLD3) is a rare genetic disorder caused by mutations in peroxisome activator receptor gamma (PPARG). Patients with familial partial lipodystrophy often have abnormal fat distribution and severe metabolic abnormalities. In this study, we identified a familial genetic defect in PPARG in a Chinese family and functionally validated this gene.
Methods
Three family members were screened for mutations in PPARG via direct sequencing. Physical examination and laboratory tests were performed on the affected individuals. The functions of the mutant genes were analyzed in transfected cell lines by measuring the transcriptional activity and interference with the wild-type protein and software-based prediction of the mutant protein structure.
Results
We identified a novel missense mutation in PPARG (i.e., PPARG2 c.634C > T; p.Arg212Trp). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that the mutation of PPARG changed the three-dimensional structure and hydrophilic properties of the protein, and that the mutation was pathogenic. In vitro experiments reveal that the transcriptional activity of the mutant receptor was significantly reduced. Family members affected by the mutation were diagnosed with diabetes and hyperlipidemia. Genetic testing was performed to further confirm the diagnosis and classification of monogenic diabetes mellitus. After the diagnosis, each patient was treated with insulin aspart injection, metformin, and Lipitor, and the symptoms of hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia improved.
Conclusions
We report familial partial lipodystrophy syndrome type 3 caused by a novel mutation in PPARG. Our data extend the spectrum of known PPARG mutations responsible for FPLD3 and highlight the importance of identifying FPLD syndrome and the early classification and management of diabetes.
Clinical characteristics of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children with atopic constitution
Authors: Qin Yujie , Yang Yuxia , Li Junxiang
Published: May 2024

ObjectiveTo analyze the clinical features of Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in children with atopic constitution and non-atopic constitution, and to provide a plan for the treatment of children with atopic constitution.MethodsA total of 446 children hospitalized with Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia in our hospital from June 2023 to December 2023 were selected. They were divided into an atopic group of 156 cases and a non atopic group of 290 cases based on their atopic constitution. The clinical data and laboratory indicators such as white blood cell count (WBC), lymphocyte percentage, neutrophil percentage, eosinophilic percentage, C-reactive protein (CRP), D-dimer, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), immunoglobulin A (IgA), immunoglobulin E (IgE) and chest CT were compared between the two groups.ResultsChildrenin the atopic group were more prone to wheezing and had a longer duration. The eosinophile count, lactate dehydrogenase and IgE levels were higher than those in non atopic group (P<0.05).The proportion of bronchiolitis and severe pneumonia was higher in the atopic group(P<0.05). However, there was no significant difference in the proportion of hormones, bronchoscopy and immunoglobulin used between the two groups.ConclusionAtopic constitution may be one of the risk factors for severe Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia and bronchiolitis-based Mycoplasma pneumoniae pneumonia. Attention should be paid to the treatment and prognosis of these children.
Broad-Wavelength Light-Fuelled Organic Crystal Oscillators Driven by Multimodal Photothermally Resonated Natural Vibration
Authors: Koshima Hideko , Hasebe Shodai , Hagiwara Yuki , Goto Taiki , Ryu Tomohiro , Ehara Takumi , Ogawa Tomohiro , Miyata Kiyoshi , Onda Ken , Morioka Ryota , Morikawa Junko , Asahi Toru
Published: May 2024

Photomechanical crystals have applications in light-fuelled actuators and soft robots. Herein, we describe light-responsive, versatile, anthraquinone dye crystal oscillators actuated via natural vibrations that are resonated by a photothermal effect. A black needle-shaped crystal cantilever oscillates at 70 Hz in the first mode of natural vibration upon irradiation by broad-wavelength light ranging from the ultraviolet through the visible to the near infrared, and also under continuous-wavelength light (400–2000 nm). The second and third natural vibration modes are induced at higher frequencies (530 and 1350 Hz) and evidence complex flagellum-like motions. The frequency can be readily tuned by moving the support of a crystal piece; this is analogous to playing a guitar. The crystal exhibits high durability (more than 10,000 cycles): the high elasticity prevents deterioration. Oscillatory motions can be designed via simulations using finite element analysis. This work will facilitate the use of photomechanical crystals in light-fuelled soft robots.