bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precision and effort in robot-assisted placement of pedicle screws compared to standard surgical navigation: a cadaveric study
Authors: Sippel Julia Katharina , Groh Johannes , Bräuer Lars , Perl Mario , Stadthalter Holger
Published: April 2024

Background: Aim was to compare image-guided navigation with a robot-assisted solution for performing MISS regardarding precision, required time and subjective aspects.
Methods: 90 pedicles were instrumented on two torsos, half with navigation, half robot-assisted.
Results: Precision analysis between both solutions didn’t show a significant difference.
Time measurement showed a significantly longer duration per wire for the robot-arm on the first torso and a not significant longer duration on the second torso, where a significant reduction in the mean duration was shown.
There was no significant difference in the subjective impressions comparing navigation and robot except the possibility to change the procedure.
Conclusion: Precision of both methods is suitable for clinical use. A time advantage using the robot-arm couldn`t be demonstrated in the present study. A significant learning curve was shown, so a reduction in the longer duration on the robot can be expected. Further studies in clinical use are necessary.
Upregulation of circulating soluble programmed death-1 molecule and its correlation with the disease activity of rheumatoid arthritis patients in Ethiopia
Authors: Sisay Biruk , Tajebe Fitsumbrhan , Abdissa Becky , Negash Markos , Wondmagegn Tadelo
Published: April 2024

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease characterized by the destruction of joints and, if left untreated, leads to functional impairment. Various elements heightened the inflammation and progress of the disease. Although the pioneered role of soluble programmed death-1 is controversial, it is believed to be correlated to the disease activity of Rheumatoid arthritis. So this study aimed to assess plasma soluble programmed death 1 (sPD-1) level and its correlation with disease activity in rheumatoid arthritis patients at Tikur Anbesa Specialty Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Method: The hospital-based cross-sectional study was undertaken from February 2021 to June 2021. Participants were enrolled through consécutive sampling. Sociodemographic data was collected using structured questionnaires, while clinical data was collected using a data collection sheet. The disease activity of the Rheumatoid arthritis patients was measured with disease activity score-érythrocytes sédimentation rate (DAS28-ESR) score. Plasma soluble programmed death one concentrations were measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit. A median variation in the concentration of soluble programmed death one between Rheumatoid arthritis patients and healthy controls were evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U-test, while Spearman’s correlation coefficient was measured to test the correlation between predictor and outcome variables.
Results: This study included 50 rheumatoid patients with a mean age of 48.08 ± 9.391 and 50 healthy controls with a mean age of 38.30 ± 13.386. In patients with RA, soluble PD-1 levels were (median; 1023 pg/mL, IQR; 850.5 - 1304.54) compared to healthy controls (median; 531.9 pg/mL, IQR: 364 - 809) increased significantly (p<0.001). Soluble PD-1 has a strong positive correlation with DAS28 (r=0.7157, p<0.001), ESR (r=0, 5657, p<0.001), and number of swollen and tender joints (r=0.5533, p<0.001). Plasma-soluble PD-1 levels were significantly lower in patients in remission compared to active RA patients.
Conclusion: soluble PD-1 Is significantly higher in RA patients and positively correlates with DAS28. This result demonstrates that sPD-1 is associated with RA disease activity and is a biomarker of RA disease activity.
Biomarkers Exploration of Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition and Ferroptosis in Lung Adenocarcinoma: Transcriptomic Analysis and Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Zhang Tianming , Hou Yue , Chen Lijun , Diwu Danbei , Tao Hongyan , Wang Hong
Published: April 2024

Background:Studies have demonstrated the prognostic potential of Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related genes (ERGs) and ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) for Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients, but their correlation and underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Thus, this investigation employs transcriptomics, Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis and single-cell data to explore the relationship and prognosis of EMT and ferroptosis with LUAD.
Methods:Transcriptomic data from training and validation sets, along with single-cell datasets, were utilized. Prognostic-related differentially expressed (DE)-FRGs and DE-ERGs were identified, and a risk model was constructed using MR analysis and machine learning techniques. Single-cell data were analyzed to characterize model genes’ expression and function.
Results:Totally, 40 DE-FRGs and 222 DE-ERGs related to prognostic were identified in TCGA-LUAD. And there were 7 candidate genes by MR analysis. A total of 6 model genes (TFAM, ALOX15, GATA1, ALAD, PDCD4 and NDRG2) were selected to construct a risk model and the model was verified by GSE11969. Meanwhile, stage, N, T, and risk score were screened out as independent prognostic factors via univariate and multivariate cox regression and scores were counted to build a nomogram. Then, MR analysis results revealed that 6 model genes were significantly causally associated with LUAD. Meanwhile, model genes were mainly enriched in NK cells, T cells, Endothelial cell clusters, etc. by single-cell analysis.
Conclusion:TFAM, ALOX15, GATA1, ALAD, PDCD4 and NDRG2 played crucial roles in LUAD prognosis, providing refresh directions for the treatment of LUAD.
Alkali-activated Rice Husk Ash-Foamed Concrete: Correlation between Microporous Structure, Hydration Characteristics and Hardening Properties
Authors: Bai Ying-hua , Xie Yuan-liang , Chen Yu
Published: April 2024

Solid waste recycling plays a crucial role in environmental protection and energy conservation. This study explores the utilization of rice husk ash as an auxiliary binding material in the production of alkali-activated foamed concrete. The impact of the modulus of the alkaline activator on the dry density, water absorption rate, thermal conductivity, electromagnetic wave absorption, and compressive and flexural strength of rice husk ash-foamed concrete was investigated. Additionally, the foamed concrete's micro-pore structure and hydration characteristics were characterized. For the first time, the study reveals the correlation between the pore structure, hydration products, and hardening properties of alkali-activated rice husk ash-foamed concrete. The results demonstrate that with a decrease in the modulus of the alkaline activator, the presence of accessible OH- ions in the colloid increases, leading to an improvement in the pore structure of alkali-activated rice husk ash-foam concrete and an increase in hydration products. The reduction in interconnected pores, increase in tiny pores, and higher C-S-H gel and ettringite content in the hydration products directly impact the development of concrete strength, reduction in dry density and water absorption rate, and decrease in thermal conductivity. Alkaline activation, through optimizing the pore structure, enhances the attenuation constant and impedance matching of the alkali-activated rice husk ash-foam concrete matrix, enhancing its electromagnetic wave absorption capability. In conclusion, the overall results suggest that alkali-activated rice husk ash-foam concrete is a viable material for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly construction.
Opposite Effects of Hypoxia-Inducible Factor-1α on Autophagy and Apoptosis Expression in Yak Renal Tubular Epithelial Cells
Authors: LU Hongqin , BAI Xuefeng , LU Zenghua , HE Junfeng , XIE Xiating , CUI Yan , YU Sijiu
Published: April 2024

Here, we investigated the effects of long-term high-altitude hypoxic environments on autophagy and apoptosis factor expression in renal tubular epithelial cells (RTECs) of yaks. By using immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, quantitative reverse transcription polymer-ase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), Western blotting (WB), we compared the distribution and expres-sion of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) in the kidneys of adult yaks and yellow cattle. The immunohistochemical and immunofluorescence staining results demonstrated positive HIF1α expression in kidney tissues from adult yaks and cattle, mainly in collecting duct epithelial cells, renal tubules, some renal glomerulus cells, and renal cysts. The WB and qRT-PCR results revealed that kidney HIF1α expression was significantly higher in adult yaks than in adult cattle (P < 0.0001). Primary cultured yak RTECs were used as experimental materials, We investigated the regulatory effects of drug inhibition and overexpression of HIF1α on the expression of autophagy and apoptosis-related factors using experimental methods such as flow cytometry, and mono-dansylcadaverine autophagy staining. The experimental results showed that HIF1α upregulation promoted autophagy and inhibited apoptosis, whereas its downregulation suppressed autoph-agy and promoted apoptosis. In conclusion, HIF1α is a crucial gene regulating the expression of autophagy and apoptosis factors in yak kidneys.
Impact of shape, spacing, and number of sacrificial piles on clear water local scour around a compound bridge pier
Authors: Sharif Muhammad Nawaz , Ghani Usman , Pasha Ghufran Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Bridge piers that have non-uniform cross-sectional dimensions along their length are called compound piers. The behavior of a significant number of bridge piers is characterized by non-uniformity, which is contingent upon how their foundations are exposed to flow fields. Bridges may fail for a variety of reasons, including design flaws and construction mistakes, however, scouring is the most dominant and dangerous of all the reasons. The primary objective of this experimental study was to mitigate the scouring effect around a circular compound bridge pier. This was achieved by using sacrificial piles as a counter-scour measure under clear water conditions. The flow rate was kept constant during the experimentation and each trial was run for about 3 hours. A point gauge was employed to measure the depth of the scour around the pier. Three shapes of sacrificial piles were used during the experimentation i.e., circular, square, and diamond. For each shape, four different values of mutual spacing between the compound pier and its adjacent upstream (u/s) sacrificial pile were used. For each mutual spacing, three different sets of sacrificial piles i.e. two, four, and six were used. In this way, 12 trials for each shape and a total of 36 trials were performed during this experimental work. The results demonstrated that the use of sacrificial piles greatly reduced the scour depth. It was observed that circular sacrificial piles were more effective in reducing maximum scour depth as compared to square and diamond-shaped sacrificial piles. The maximum reduction in local scour was observed by using six circular sacrificial piles with 5,5.67&6.33 b mutual spacing b/w pier and u/s pile. On the other hand, the least reduction in scour depth was observed by using two circular piles with 1b mutual spacing b/w pier and u/s pile.
The aftermath of Post COVID-19 Condition in Italy and the United States: an ecological comparison
Authors: Garlasco Jacopo , Nurchis Mario , Raspolini Gian Mario , Alizadeh Aurora Heidar , Elhadidy Heba , Gianino Maria , Damiani Gianfranco
Published: April 2024

Post COVID-19 Condition (PCC) is a clinical syndrome following COVID-19 disease. PCC symptoms in adults entail significant productivity loss and reduced quality of life. This study aimed at estimating the epidemiological and economic burden of PCC among the working-age population of Italy and the US. This ecological analysis was conducted on data from January 2020 to April 2023, regarding population aged 18-64. PCC incidence was retrieved for the US, while for Italy it was estimated from COVID-19 cases. Prevalence of factors associated with PCC and parameters to calculate temporary productivity losses (TPL) were retrieved. An estimated Incidence Rate Ratio (eIRR) of PCC incidence in Italy and the US was calculated. TPL for reduced earnings and total Quality-Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) lost were also estimated.
The ecological eIRR Italy/US was 0.842 [95%CI: 0.672–1.015], suggesting that, holding COVID-19 cases constant, 15.8% fewer PCC cases have occurred in Italy compared to the US. Overall PCC cases were found to be roughly 12.0 [95%CI: 9.9–14.1] million in the US, with 1.9 [95%CI: 1.6–2.3] million QALYs lost, and around 2.4 [95%CI: 1.8–3.0] million in Italy, with 0.4 [95%CI: 0.3–0.5] million QALYs lost. Up to April 2023, the TPL was estimated to be €4.5 [95%CI: 3.5–6.1] billion in Italy and $41.5 [95%CI: 34.3–48.7] billion in the US.
PCC has had a significant epidemiological and economic impact on the working-age population. The findings from this study may be of use for health planning and policy regarding PCC in working-age adults.
Exploring the Role and Significance of Values-Based Leadership: A Comprehensive Systematic Review in Higher Education Leadership
Authors: Tadesse Yared Mulat , Bekele Mitiku , Arega Abunu
Published: April 2024

Purpose – The aim of this review is to create a conceptual basis for promoting value-based leadership in public universities; the aim of the review is also to identify the research gap with regard to implications for value-based leadership practice and future research. This review addresses the following questions: Why is value-based leadership now in the university context; what is value-based leadership; what is the rebirth of value integration in leadership; and what is the genesis of value-based leadership as an emerging theory.
Methodology/approach – This is a systematic review of academic publications, articles, empirical studies and current books on value-based leadership using four databases, namely, Research Gate, Science Direct, Google Scholar and Scopus. In addition, the previous three databases, Academia, were used in rare cases. The review process involves three processes: searching for relevant literature on the phenomenon of interest, reviewing and consulting the literature, and continuing to create a report pool. A two-step screening approach was utilized. The approach was descriptive in nature, and the events were presented methodologically in a narrative manner and followed a qualitative approach. We ensure that the selected articles fit the selected context and contain empirical research (i.e., primary or secondary). Additionally, the study's organization and/or structure are sought.
Findings – The core values of organizations aid in adapting to and responding to the complexity of the modern environment. In addition, organizations instill core values in leadership to achieve overall organizational excellence, and more organizations that prioritize values are more resilient. However, more research is needed on the role of values in institutionalization processes since values are central to the value-based leadership model. Surprisingly, the source of values, their universality, and the possibility of value conflicts are not fully explored.
Originality/value – This paper provides a brief overview of the limited literature on the conceptualization/perception of value-based leadership and its implications for higher education.
Insight into the Electrical Properties of TiN/Al2O3/p-Si High-K MIS Devices
Authors: Hlali Slah , Hizem Neila , Kalboussi Adel
Published: April 2024

This research presents a study of the electrical characteristics C-V and I-V for the new MIS structure TiN/Al2O3/P-Si, simulated using Silvaco TCAD software. The analysis reveals the impact of various parameters such as frequency, temperature, oxide thickness, surface of the structure, and doping on the characteristics. The numerical simulations show good agreement with theoretical curves from literature, demonstrating proficiency in simulation techniques. The studies indicate that as temperature rises, there is a decrease in flat band voltage possibly due to reduced total charge density in the oxide and interface defect density. Notably, a weak inversion zone is observed at temperatures between 77 K and 300 K. Furthermore, frequency has a significant impact on the C-V characteristic at 1 GHz. Analysis of I-V reveals an asymmetry in temperature activation, suggesting the presence of two mechanisms of current conduction. The study also highlights that increasing doping values result in higher current density in the negative voltage regime, while simulated leakage currents for TiN/Al2O3/P-Si capacitors with varying dielectric thicknesses show higher current density for electron injection from the gate compared to the substrate due to band diagram asymmetry, leading to non-uniform leakage current behavior influenced by decreasing oxide thickness.
Oceanographic connectivity strongly restricts future range expansions of critical ecosystem structuring species
Authors: Assis Jorge , Legrand Terence , Fragkopoulou Eliza , Gouvêa Lidiane , Serrão Ester A. , Araújo Miguel
Published: April 2024

Climate change is anticipated to profoundly shift the distribution of marine biodiversity, yet the extent to which species can track suitable habitats remains unknown. In particular, oceanographic connectivity, the exchange of individuals mediated by ocean currents, can play a crucial role in dispersal and future range dynamics. Here, we integrate species distribution models and biophysical models to quantify the extent to which oceanographic connectivity can restrict future range expansions of marine forests of seagrasses and brown macroalgae under contrasting climate change scenarios. Our results show substantial range contractions for both groups, particularly under high emissions. Despite the potential for broad poleward range expansions that could partially offset range constrictions, oceanographic connectivity emerges as a major limiting factor, restricting potential expansion areas of newly suitable habitats by up to 8-fold for seagrasses and by 6.7-fold for brown macroalgae. These restrictions may push up to 90% of species into experiencing negative net habitat changes. Notably, connectivity barriers are well-defined at the global scale, and particularly strong in regions projected to hold extensive future suitable habitat, including the Okhotsk Sea, New Zealand, and the Arctic. Overall, our findings emphasize the need for conservation and management strategies that explicitly integrate both changing habitat suitability and oceanographic connectivity to provide the most accurate and actionable guidance for protecting marine forests in a changing climate.
Nitrogen Supply from Soil Organic Matter: Predictors and Implications for Recommended Nitrogen Application Rates in Northern Highbush Blueberry
Authors: Sloan Cheyenne , DeVetter Lisa Wasko , Griffin-LaHue Deirdre , Benedict Chris , Bryla David R. , LaHue Gabriel T.
Published: April 2024

Nitrogen (N) management is a key component to maintaining high productivity of northern highbush blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum L.) and nitrogen is often supplied by applying ammonium-based fertilizers. It can also be supplied through mineralization of soil organic matter (SOM), although the amount released by SOM is difficult to predict and not always considered in the development and implementation of N fertility programs. Laboratory and field experiments were conducted to estimate the timing and magnitude of net N mineralization from SOM throughout the growing season, identify soil properties that can be measured commercially and used to predict net N mineralization across a range of SOM, and determine whether N requirements for maximizing yield and fruit quality of blueberry vary across soils with different amounts of SOM. The laboratory experiment was conducted for 6 months using soil samples collected from 10 representative commercial blueberry fields in northwest Washington. The soils contained 2% to 42% soil organic carbon (SOC). The mean net N mineralization rates were fastest during the first 3 to 4 months of incubation, corresponding to the period during which N uptake reaches its maximum in blueberry. Results indicated that the soil total N may be a useful predictor of the N supply from SOM (6.34 ± 1.13 kg⋅ha−1 increase in net N mineralization with each 0.1% increase in total N), but there was substantial variability in the N supply that could not by explained by the total N (P < 0.001; r2 = 0.433). The field experiment was conducted from 2019 to 2021 and included four mature, regionally representative, commercial fields of ‘Duke’ blueberry. The fields contained 3% to 28% SOC and were each fertilized with low, medium (control), or high N rates, corresponding to 33 to 50, 67 to 84, or 102 to 118 kg⋅ha−1 N per year, respectively. Although soil inorganic N levels suggested that N mineralization was substantial at sites with higher SOM, sites with lower SOM did not require more fertilizer N than those with higher SOM. Under the conditions of this experiment, even the lowest N rates were sufficient to sustain production for at least 3 years at each site. The findings of this study indicate that SOM may be an important contributor to N fertility in managed blueberry systems, and that yield and fruit quality can be maintained across various N fertilizer rates, including at rates <50 kg⋅ha−1 N. However, the long-term impacts of reducing N application rates remain unclear, and future research should monitor long-term changes in plant health and soil fertility associated with reduced N applications across diverse soils and production systems.
The role of followership on organizational citizenship behavior in the service industry: A double mediation model
Authors: Noermijati Noermijati , Zahra Firdaus Ema , Tri Kurniawati Desi , Masyhuri
Published: April 2024

Competition in service industries is fierce, so operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness can be implemented by optimizing internal resources to increase competitive advantage. This study aims to investigate the role of followership in enhancing organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) with double mediating mechanisms, such as job satisfaction and organizational commitment. This study was conducted on food distributor service companies in Indonesia and employees as respondents. Questionnaires were used to collect data, which were using convenience sampling. Then, 131 data points were gathered and prepared for analysis using the G-Power minimum sample size. Data analysis was conducted using structural equation modeling with the SmartPLS application. The results showed that followership significantly influenced OCB, job satisfaction, and organizational commitment. Furthermore, it was also observed that job satisfaction showed an effect on OCB. However, organizational commitment does not affect OCB. Furthermore, during mediation testing, only job satisfaction was found to successfully mediate and act as a connecting variable between followership and OCB. This study has contributed to the cognitive resonance theory and suggests that service companies consider leadership followership in order to enhance OCB among their employees efficiently. It also recommended that employees should first exhibit job satisfaction before engaging in extra-role behaviors for the company.
AcknowledgmentResearchers give great appreciation to Universitas Brawijaya for funding this research.
Atores e relações sociais na construção social dos mercados do Núcleo Alto Uruguai da Rede Ecovida de Agroecologia
Authors: Toniolo Felipe , Da Silva Leonardo Xavier
Published: April 2024

Os mercados cada vez mais passam a fazer parte do cotidiano dos agricultores familiares, entretanto, ainda há gargalos para a participação destes nesses espaços. Organizações como a Rede Ecovida de Agroecologia buscam criar condições para enfrentar essas dificuldades e promover o desenvolvimento rural, tornando-a um campo importante para estudo, sobretudo para compreender a sua dinâmica. Desta forma, este trabalho objetiva caracterizar os atores sociais e institucionais e a rede de relações socioeconômica que influenciam os mercados dos agricultores familiares no Núcleo Alto Uruguai da Rede Ecovida. Para atender o objetivo da pesquisa utilizou-se dos aparatos da teoria de redes sociais de Mark Granovetter, a qual ajuda a identificar e elucidar os atores e as relações sociais. A pesquisa caracteriza-se como descritiva e a geração de dados primários se deu por entrevistas semiestruturadas com as entidades que compõem o Núcleo e a observação sistemática não-participante das reuniões de cinco grupos de agricultores do Núcleo. Já os dados secundários foram coletados através de pesquisa documental. Os principais resultados revelam que os agricultores no Núcleo Alto Uruguai constituem uma extensa rede social, envolvendo atores sociais e institucionais, individuais e coletivos, bem como externo e internos ao Núcleo, estes que influenciam de diferentes formas os mercados dos agricultores. A partir destes resultados, afere-se que a construção de mercados alternativos tem sido uma importante estratégia usada pelos agricultores familiares e organizações e que a análise de redes sociais é uma importante ferramenta para a interpretação dos mercados da agricultura familiar.
Formação docente para as Habilitações Básicas: tecnicismo e emergencialidade
Authors: Souza Francisco das Chagas Silva
Published: April 2024

Neste artigo, temos como objetivo discutir a formação de professores para as Habilitações Básicas, criadas em 1975. É uma pesquisa no campo da História da Educação, cuja fonte foi a legislação criada para a implementação da Lei nº 5.692/1971. Os documentos nos levaram a constatar a influência da pedagogia tecnicista e a endossar os estudos que apontaram o caráter “especial” e “emergencial” dos cursos de formação docente para o ensino profissionalizante. Evidenciamos ainda a urgência de mão de obra para o mercado influenciou nas ações com fins de solucionar a carência de professores qualificados para lecionar no 2º grau.
Modernidade a contrapelo – uma produção histórica das desigualdades
Authors: Philippi Carolina
Published: April 2024

Resenha do livro VEIGA, C. G. Subalternidade e opressão sociorracial: - questões para a historiografia da educação latino-americana. Editora Unesp/SBHE, 2022.
História da educação dos imigrantes italianos e alemães: perspectivas transnacionais
Authors: Weiduschadt Patrícia , Castro Renata Brião de
Published: April 2024

Este artigo objetiva abordar as potencialidades do uso da perspectiva da global history e do transnacional nos estudos sobre imigração e história da educação, a partir dos grupos imigratórios italianos e alemães que se dirigiram ao Brasil nos séculos XIX e XX e da organização de instituições escolares. Tal abordagem demonstrou que as escolas étnicas italianas e alemãs foram permeadas por preceitos conectados a distintas realidades – o local de origem dos imigrados e o solo brasileiro –, evidenciando a potencialidade do uso das teorias em análise nas pesquisas sobre história da educação dos imigrantes.
Carboxylic Group Functionalized Carbon Quantum Dots inhibit Hen Egg
White Lysozyme Amyloidogenesis, leading to the Formation of Spherical
Aggregates with Reduced Toxicity and ROS Generation
Authors: Prabhu M.P. Taraka , Chrungoo Shreya , Sarkar Nandini
Published: April 2024

Introduction::

Proteinopathies are a group of diseases where the protein structure has
been altered. These alterations are linked to the production of amyloids, which are persistent, organized
clumps of protein molecules through inter-molecular interactions. Several disorders, including
Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, have been related to the presence of amyloids. Highly ordered
beta sheets or beta folds are characteristic of amyloids; these structures can further self-
-assemble into stable fibrils.

Method::

Protein aggregation is caused by a wide variety of environmental and experimental factors,
including mutations, high pH, high temperature, and chemical modification. Despite several
efforts, a cure for amyloidosis has yet to be found. Due to its advantageous semi-conducting characteristics,
unique optical features, high surface area-to-volume ratio, biocompatibility, etc., carbon
quantum dots (CQDs) have lately emerged as key instruments for a wide range of biomedical
applications. To this end, we have investigated the effect of CQDs with a carboxyl group on their
surface (CQD-CA) on the in vitro amyloidogenesis of hen egg white lysozyme (HEWL).

Result::

By generating a stable compound that is resistant to fibrillation, our findings show that
CQD-CA can suppress amyloid and disaggregate HEWL. In addition, CQD-CA caused the creation
of non-toxic spherical aggregates, which generated much less reactive oxygen species (ROS).

Conclusion::

Overall, our results show that more research into amyloidosis treatments, including
surface functionalized CQDs, is warranted.
Unveiling Therapeutic Avenues for Crohn’s Disease Management:
Exploring Inhibitors for Adherent-Invasive Escherichia coli Propanediol
Dehydratase
Authors: Bourhia Mohammed , Hosen Md. Eram , Faruqe Md Omar , Tasnim Faria , Taibi Mohamed , Elbouzidi Amine , Bin Jardan Yousef A. , Ibenmoussa Samir , Asehraou Abdeslam
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) encompasses a group of chronic disorders
distinguished by inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Among these, Crohn's Disease
(CD) stands out as a complex and impactful condition due to challenges for both diagnosis and
management, making it a cynosure of research.

Methods:

In CD, there is the predominance of proinflammatory bacteria, including the Adherentinvasive
Escherichia coli (AIEC) with virulence-associated metabolic enzyme Propanediol Dehydratase
(pduC), which has been identified as a therapeutic target for the management of CD. Herein,
molecular modeling techniques, including molecular docking, Molecular Mechanics with Generalized
Born and Surface Area (MMGBSA), drug-likeness, and pharmacokinetics profiling, were
utilized to probe the potentials of eighty antibacterial compounds to serve as inhibitors of pduC.

Results:

The results of this study led to the identification of five compounds with promising potentials;
the results of the molecular docking simulation revealed the compounds as possessing better
binding affinities for the target compared to the standard drug (sulfasalazine), while Lipinski’s rule
of five-based assessment of their drug-likeness properties revealed them as potential oral drugs.
MMGBSA free energy calculation and Molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation of the complexes
formed a sequel to molecular docking, revealing the compounds as stable binders in the active site
of the protein.

Conclusion:

Ultimately, the results of this study have revealed five compounds to possess the potential
to serve as inhibitors of pduC of AIEC. However, experimental studies are still needed to
validate the findings of this study.
A State-of-the-art Review on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Applications
Authors: Sharma Rishav , Malviya Rishabha , Uniyal Prerna , Prajapati Bhupendra
Published: April 2024

Background:

The integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning holds great
promise for enhancing healthcare institutions and providing fresh perspectives on the origins and
advancement of long-term illnesses. In the healthcare sector, artificial intelligence and machine learning
are used to address supply and demand concerns, genomic applications, and new advancements
in drug development, cancer, and heart disease.

Objective:

The article explores the ways that machine learning, AI, precision medicine, and genomics
are changing healthcare. The essay also discusses how AI's examination of various patient data could
enhance healthcare institutions, provide fresh insights into chronic conditions, and advance precision
medicine. The potential uses of machine learning for genome analysis are also examined in the paper,
particularly about genetic biomarker-based disease risk and symptom prediction.

Discussion:

The challenges posed by the phenotype-genotype relationship are examined, as well as
the significance of comprehending disease pathways in order to create tailored treatments. Moreover,
it offers a streamlined and modularized method that predicts how genotypes affect cell properties
using machine-learning models, enabling the development of personalized drugs. The collective feedback
highlights the rapid interdisciplinary growth of medical genomics following the completion of
the Human Genome Project. It also emphasizes how important genomic data is for improving
healthcare outcomes and facilitating personalized medicine.

Conclusion:

The study's conclusions point to a revolutionary shift in healthcare: the application of
AI/ML to illness control. Even though these innovations have a lot of potential benefits, problems
like algorithm interpretability and ethical issues need to be worked out before they can be successfully
incorporated into routine medical practice. Using machine learning in medicine has enormous potential
benefits for the biotech industry. Further research, ongoing regulatory frameworks, and collaboration
between medical professionals and data analysts are necessary to fully utilize machine learning
as well as artificial intelligence in disease management.
Exosomes from MicroRNA-125b-Modified Adipose-Derived Stem Cells
Promote Wound Healing of Diabetic Foot Ulcers
Authors: Guo Enqi , Wang Liang , Wu Jianlong , Chen Qiang
Published: April 2024

Introduction::

Exosomes derived from Adipose-Derived Stem Cells (ADSCs-Exo)
have been implicated in the enhancement of wound repair in Diabetic Foot Ulcers (DFU). Objective:
The current research was designed to explore the therapeutic potential and underlying mechanisms
of ADSCs-Exo modified with microRNA-125b (miR-125b) in the context of DFU.

Methods::

Rat models with DFU and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) subjected
to high glucose (HG) conditions served as experimental systems and were administered
miR-125b-engineered ADSCs-Exo. Then, the expressions of CD34, Ki-67, angiogenesis-related
factors (VEGF and TGFβ-1), angiogenesis inhibitor DLL-4, and inflammation-related proteins
(TLR-4 and IL-6) were detected.

Results::

MiR-125b was upregulated in ADSCs-Exo. MiR-125b-mimics transfection in ADSCs-
Exo reduced inflammatory infiltration and promoted granulation formation and wound healing
in wound tissues. MiR-125b-mimics-modified ADSCs-Exo injection increased the expression of
CD34, Ki-67, VEGF, and TGFβ-1, whereas decreased the expression of DLL-4, TLR-4, and IL-6
in wound tissues of DFU rats. In addition, miR-125b-mimics-ADSCs-Exo injection reversed the
negative effects of HG on the proliferation, migration, and angiogenesis of HUVECs, as well as
the positive effects of cell apoptosis. Moreover, miR-125b-inhibitor-ADSCs-Exo injection had the
opposite effects to miR-125b-mimics-ADSCs-Exo.

Conclusion::

ADSCs-Exo promoted wound healing of DFU rats, especially when overexpressing
miR-125b.
NIFK, a Potential Prognostic and Immunological Biomarker in Pan--
Cancer Analysis, Significantly Regulates Proliferation and Metastasis of
Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Li Zhuoyuan , Zhou Shangbo , Bin Ting , Shi Yuntao , Zeng Leli , Li Bo , Li Jia , He Yulong , Zhang Changhua
Published: April 2024

Background:

As a binding protein of Ki67, NIFK plays an important role in the mitosis of cells and is closely related to the progression of specific types of tumors. However, there is
still a lack of systematic analysis of NIFK in pan-cancer and insufficient research to explore its
role in human tumors.

Methods:

We systematically evaluated the pan-cancer expression and mutation of NIFK in human
cancers using data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) through large-scale bioinformatics
analysis. In addition, we explored the pan-cancer immunological characteristics of NIFK, especially in colorectal adenocarcinoma (COAD). Furthermore, we used single-cell sequencing to analyze
the expression of NIFK in different cells of COAD tissues and performed GO, KEGG, and gene
set enrichment analysis of NIFK in COAD. Lastly, we evaluated the effects of NIFK knockdown
on the colorectal cancer cell lines in in vitro experiment.

Results:

We found that NIFK was overexpressed in almost all types of tumors and showed significant prognostic efficacy. Additionally, correlations between NIFK and specific immune features,
such as immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoint genes, TMB, and MSI, suggest that NIFK
may be used to guide immunotherapy. Subsequently, it was found that the expression of NIFK
was significantly upregulated in tumor cells through single-cell sequencing analysis, and the
NIFK gene was closely associated with tumor progression and immune therapy response. Finally,
we further elucidated the role of NIFK in colorectal cancer and found that downregulation of
NIFK expression could inhibit the proliferation, migration, and invasion ability of colorectal cancer cells.

Conclusion:

The results of this study demonstrated that NIFK, as a member of the pan-cancer
genes, will serve as a biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for a range of cancer types, providing new insight into precision medicine.
Honokiol Suppresses Cell Proliferation and Tumor Migration through ROS in Human Anaplastic Thyroid Cancer Cells
Authors: Liao Kai-Sheng , Lee Ying-Ray , Chao Wen-Ying , Huang Yen-Ju , Chung Hui-Chen , Chen Shu-Hsin , Li Yi-Zhen , Zhao Pei-Wen , Chang Hong-Yi
Published: April 2024

Background:

Honokiol is a natural polyphenolic compound extracted from Magnolia
officinali, which is commonly used material in Chinese herbal medicine, has a variety of biological
functions, including anti-tumor, anti-oxidant, anti-inflammation, anti-microbial and
anti-allergy. Although honokiol has numerous beneficial effects on human diseases, the
underlying mechanisms of tumor metastasis are still unclear. Previously, we reported that
honokiol suppresses thyroid cancer cell proliferation with cytotoxicity through cell cycle arrest,
apoptosis, and dysregulation of intracellular hemostasis. Herein, we hypothesized that the antioxidant
effect of honokiol might play a critical role in thyroid cancer cell proliferation and migration.

Methods:

The cell viability assays, cellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) activity, cell migration,
and immunoblotting were performed after cells were treated with honokiol.

Results:

Based on this hypothesis, we first demonstrated that honokiol suppresses cell proliferation
in two human anaplastic thyroid carcinoma (ATC) cell lines, KMH-2 and ASH-3, within a
dosage- and time-dependent manner by cell counting kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. Next, we examined
that honokiol induced ROS activation and could be suppressed by pre-treated with an antioxidant
agent, N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC). Furthermore, the honokiol suppressed cell proliferation
can be rescued by pre-treated with NAC. Finally, we demonstrated that honokiol inhibited
ATC cell migration by modulating epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT)-related markers by
Western blotting.

Conclusion:

Taken together, we provided the potential mechanism for treating ATC cells with
honokiol, which significantly suppresses tumor proliferation and inhibits tumor metastasis in
vitro through reactive oxygen species (ROS) induction.
Sexual Risk-taking Behaviours amongst Rural Adolescent Boys in a Province in South Africa: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Mogotsi Miriam , Govender Saraswathie , Nel Kathryn , Govender Indiran
Published: April 2024

Background

Risky sexual behaviours amongst adolescents contribute to public health problems globally and can be linked to cultural norms and lifestyles. This study aimed to explore the influences that are related to sexual risk behaviours amongst adolescent boys in a rural setting in South Africa.

Methods

The research was guided by Bandura’s social learning theory. The research used a qualitative approach with an exploratory phenomenological research design. Purposive sampling was used; 30 adolescent boys aged 13 to 18 years were recruited from 5 high schools in a province in South Africa. Focus groups were created, and data were analysed using thematic analysis (TA).

Results

Five themes emerged naturally out of the data, namely: 1) Lack of parental communication about sex; 2) Alcohol use; 3) Media influence; 4) Pregnancy and manhood; and 5) Government grants.

Conclusion

Findings revealed that the sample of male adolescents was involved in high-risk sex behaviours that were influenced by their sexual desires, consumption of alcohol, desire to prove their manhood, and receiving money from government grants. It was recommended that the Department of Education (DOE) in South Africa should implement and update sex education programmes at both primary and secondary schools.
Vegetation reconstruction of the Agro Pontino and Fondi basin (central Italy) before and after the Bronze Age eruption of Somma-Vesuvius (c. 1900 BCE)
Authors: Doorenbosch M.
Published: April 2024

In the research project The Avellino Event: Cultural and Demographic Effects of the Great Bronze Age Eruption of Mount Vesuvius, the recording of local and regional changes in the vegetation of the landscapes of the Agro Pontino and the Fondi basin (southern Lazio, Italy) before and after the Bronze Age eruption of Somma-Vesuvius (c. 1900 BCE) was central to answer the project’s central question, which revolved around the nature of the distal effects of this high-magnitude eruption on the conditions of living for the Bronze Age human population inhabiting these landscapes. If adverse effects of the ash fall in these areas were minor, the Agro Pontino and the Fondi basin, located about 125 km north of the Vesuvius, could well have been the refuge area people might have fled to in their attempts to escape the pyroclastic flows that eventually would bury parts of Campania around the Vesuvius below a thick layer of tephra. If adverse effects of the ash fall were major, the situation might, likewise, have led to changes in vegetation but could have resulted in a decline in human and animal presence due to toxicity, for instance. In both scenarios, either population growth due to in-migration or population decline due to environmental impact, we expected to see changes in the vegetation record in the period during which the Avellino Event occurred. To test our hypotheses, we performed archaeobotanical research, using pollen and macro-remains, on stratified soil sequences from test pits in the Agro Pontino and the Fondi basin containing the Avellino tephra layers, thereby guaranteeing sound chronological control. (The research revealed the presence of other known distal tephras as well.) Contrary to our expectations, the research did not provide proof of any significant changes in the vegetation around the date of the Avellino Event, nor did it provide any strong signs of human impact on these landscapes in the longer term before and after the distal ash fall, thereby indicating low population levels during the final part of the Early Bronze Age (EBA) and the initial phase of the Middle Bronze Age. Although this finding about human impact is an important outcome, it is not the only finding. The archaeobotanical research provided the project with high-resolution information on the vegetation and environmental conditions in the Agro Pontino and the Fondi basin for the duration of the Bronze Age. This, in combination with the physical-geographical data collected during the project, added significantly to our ability to perform detailed palaeogeographical reconstruction of the Agro Pontino and the Fondi basin. In addition, it increased our understanding of how the landscape had been settled during the Bronze Age (Sevink et al. 2022; Attema et al. in press). A final spin-off consisted of possible new information on the 4.2 ka climatic event that impacted Italy during later prehistory, as reflected in the pollen diagrams presented.
REPRESENTASI KESENJANGAN SOSIAL DALAM NOVEL KAMI (BUKAN) SARJANA KERTAS KARYA J.S. KHAIREN
Authors: Hafiizh A. Abdul
Published: April 2024

Penelitian ini didasari oleh pandangan bahwa pada dasarnya sastra merupakan proses cerminan dari realitas yang ada dalam tatanan masyarakat. Hubungan antara sastra dengan masyarakat akan selalu berdekatan, dan saling berhubungan satu sama lain. Tujuan penelitian ini dibuat yang pertama adalah untuk memenuhi tugas sebagai mahasiswa dan yang kedua adalah mengetahui kesenjangan sosial apa saja yang terdapat dalam novel Kami (Bukan) Sarjana Kertas karya J.S. Khairen. Jenis metode penelitian ini adalah metode penelitian kualitatif. Menurut Koentjaraningrat (1993: 89) penelitian kualitatif adalah desain penelitian yang memiliki tiga format. Ketiga format tersebut adalah penelitian deskriptif, verifikasi, dan format grounded research. Hasil yang penulis dapat adalah ternyata dalam novel Kami (Bukan) Sarjana Kertas terdapat beberapa kesenjangan sosial yang ada, seperti kesenjangan sosial ekonomi (kemiskinan), pendidikan, lingkungan, lapangan pekerjaan, serta status sosial. Kesenjangan sosial tersebut sangat mencerminkan apa yang ada dalam kenyataan bahwa sebagian besar masyarakat masih mengalami hal-hal seperti di atas. Terdapat banyak perbedaan di antara sekitar yang akhirnya menimbulkan kesenjangan sosial.
Internalization of character education values in Arabic Language learning for Tsanawiyah Students Dayah Al Muslimun Lhoksukon North Aceh
Authors: Syukran Syukran , Sutaman Sutaman , Arifa Zakiyah , Nurmala Mia
Published: April 2024

This study aims to describe the implementation of character education values and their internalization in Arabic language learning for tsnawiyah students of Dayah Al Muslimun Lhoksukon North Aceh. This research uses descriptive qualitative methods, and the data collected are the results of observations, interviews and documentation. Data analysis in this study used Miles Huberman's interactive analysis theory. The data analysis technique in this study begins with collecting data, presenting, reducing and concluding. The results of this study indicate that the value of character education values contained in Arabic learning materials in the book Arabiyah Baina Yadaik for Tsanawiyah students, namely: religious values, ethical values, tolerance values, disciplinary values, complex work values, independent values, democratic values, curiosity values, national spirit values, recognizing excellence, communicative values, reading values, environmental care values and responsibility values and the value of character education values are internalized into the process of Arabic learning stages through teaching materials, learning models and evaluation (authentic assessment).