bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ROCK inhibitor and viscosity of gelatin promote hepatic differentiation by regulating organelles in human umbilical cord matrix-mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Choi Jiwan , Kang Seoon , An Hye-In , Kim Chae-Eun , Lee Sanghwa , Pack Chan-Gi , Yoon Young-In , Jin Hana , Cho Yong-Pil , Kim Chong Jai , Namgoong Jung-Man , Kim Jun Ki , Tak Eunyoung
Published: May 2024

Background
Human mesenchymal stem cells originating from umbilical cord matrix are a promising therapeutic resource, and their differentiated cells are spotlighted as a tissue regeneration treatment. However, there are limitations to the medical use of differentiated cells from human umbilical cord matrix-mesenchymal stem cells (hUCM-MSCs), such as efficient differentiation methods.
Methods
To effectively differentiate hUCM-MSCs into hepatocyte-like cells (HLCs), we used the ROCK inhibitor, fasudil, which is known to induce endoderm formation, and gelatin, which provides extracellular matrix to the differentiated cells. To estimate a differentiation efficiency of early stage according to combination of gelatin and fasudil, transcription analysis was conducted. Moreover, to demonstrate that organelle states affect differentiation, we performed transcription, tomographic, and mitochondrial function analysis at each stage of hepatic differentiation. Finally, we evaluated hepatocyte function based on the expression of mRNA and protein, secretion of albumin, and activity of CYP3A4 in mature HLCs.
Results
Fasudil induced endoderm-related genes (GATA4, SOX17, and FOXA2) in hUCM-MSCs, and it also induced lipid droplets (LDs) inside the differentiated cells. However, the excessive induction of LDs caused by fasudil inhibited mitochondrial function and prevented differentiation into hepatoblasts. To prevent the excessive LDs formation, we used gelatin as a coating material. When hUCM-MSCs were induced into hepatoblasts with fasudil on high-viscosity (1%) gelatin-coated dishes, hepatoblast-related genes (AFP and HNF4A) showed significant upregulation on high-viscosity gelatin-coated dishes compared to those treated with low-viscosity (0.1%) gelatin. Moreover, other germline cell fates, such as ectoderm and mesoderm, were repressed under these conditions. In addition, LDs abundance was also reduced, whereas mitochondrial function was increased. On the other hand, unlike early stage of the differentiation, low viscosity gelatin was more effective in generating mature HLCs. In this condition, the accumulation of LDs was inhibited in the cells, and mitochondria were activated. Consequently, HLCs originated from hUCM-MSCs were genetically and functionally more matured in low-viscosity gelatin.
Conclusions
This study demonstrated an effective method for differentiating hUCM-MSCs into hepatic cells using fasudil and gelatin of varying viscosities. Moreover, we suggest that efficient hepatic differentiation and the function of hepatic cells differentiated from hUCM-MSCs depend not only on genetic changes but also on the regulation of organelle states.
Interaction between soils physicochemical properties and fungal communities in different Tunisian agroecosystems
Authors: Rhouma Abdelhak , Hajji-Hedfi Lobna , Oukid Djalel , Kouadri Mohamed El Amine
Published: May 2024

Soil fungi are vital members of the soil ecosystem, performing a multitude of functions critical for ecosystem health. This study examined the relationship between soil properties and fungal communities in Tunisian agroecosystems. Soil characteristics like pH, electrical conductivity, bulk density, and nutrient content displayed significant variations across the studied crops. These variations suggest the need for tailored irrigation and fertilization practices for optimal plant growth. Fungal abundance also varied significantly, with pomegranate (P. granatum cv. Gabsi: 14.82 x 10⁵ CFU/g of soil) harboring the most abundant community, while tomato (S. lycopersicum cvs. Firenze and Dorra: 0.92 x 10⁵ and 0.66 x 10⁵ CFU/g of soil, respectively) exhibited the least. Similarly, Trichoderma spp. abundance followed the same pattern (2.02 x 10⁵, 0.04 x 10⁵, and 0.06 x 10⁵ CFU/g of soil, respectively). Analysis revealed that fungal abundance increased in soils with low salinity, compaction, and clay content, but increased more in environments rich in organic matter, nutrients, and well-drained sandy textures. Furthermore, a preference for a higher soil carbon-to-nitrogen ratio suggests fungi favor readily available carbon sources for growth. In Tunisian agroecosystems, soil properties significantly influenced fungal abundance and composition across crops. This highlights the need for tailored management practices to promote both plant growth and beneficial fungi, with a focus on maintaining good soil health for diverse fungal communities.
Human resource for people with disabilities: scale design, development and validation
Authors: Zhang Xiaotian , Liu Shushan , Wang Lei
Published: May 2024

The concept of viewing people with disabilities (PWDs) as a valuable human resource has developed alongside the evolution of the disability paradigm and the modern economy. Nevertheless, the full potential of PWDs as a human resource has yet to be realized. The proper development and utilization of PWDs can lead to significant economic and social benefits. This study aims to develop and validate the Human Resources Scale for People with Disabilities (HRSPWD) in the context of Chinese respondents (n=1235). Exploratory factor analysis (n=600) and confirmatory factor analysis (n=635) were conducted, and the results revealed that the structure of the HRSPWD-18 features three dimensions: selection and training, appraisal and promotion, and compensation and support. The scale has been shown to exhibit good validity and reliability, thus making it a valuable tool for assessing the management of human resources among this population.
Enhancing Graph Clustering Efficiency: A Closeness Centrality Approach to Girvan-Newman Algorithm
Authors: PUNNAPATHIRAN TINNAPAT , ANGSUCHOTMETEE CHINNAPONG , LAVANGNANANDA KITTICHAI
Published: May 2024

Graph clustering is crucial in logistics, social analysis, semantic-based search engines, and urban planning for uncovering data relationships. One of the most common graph clustering algorithms is Girvan-Newman, which relies on Edge Centrality statistics by iteratively removing edges with high betweenness centrality. However, exploring alternative centrality metrics can enhance its performance. This study presents a modified Girvan-Newman clustering algorithm that adopts a different centrality metric, namely Closeness Centrality, particularly suitable for data where the distance between nodes significantly influences their clustering, such as logistic analysis, urban planning, and network route planning. Our custom closeness-centrality-based modified Girvan-Newman algorithm aims to produce more compact and densely clustered outcomes. Experimental results demonstrate that our algorithms outperform Girvan-Newman in modularity and conductance metrics using the Hat Yai Tourism urban planning dataset. Moreover, they either outperform or closely approximate Girvan-Newman in conductance metrics across several benchmarking datasets.
Estimation the Effect of Ficus carica Active components’ Nanoparticles on Mice Infected by Schistosomal cercariae and treated with praziquantel
Authors: El-Attar Naira Adel , El-Sawi Mamdouh , El-Shabasy Eman
Published: May 2024

Bilharzia is parasitic flatworm that causes schistosomiasis, a neglected tropical illness of worldwide. Praziquantel (PZQ) is a commercial single treatment of schistosomiasis so the alternative drugs are needed to get rid of its side effects on liver. The current study aimed to estimate the effective role of Ficus carica nanoparticles (Fc-NPCs), silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPCs) and Ficus carica nanoparticles loaded on silver nanoparticles (Fc-Ag NPCs) on C57BL/6 black female mice infected by Schistosoma mansoni and treated with PZQ treatment. It was proved that the schistosomiasis causes liver damage in addition to the PZQ is ineffective as anti-schistosomiasis; it is recorded in infected mice group and PZQ treated group as in liver function tests, oxidative stress markers & anti-oxidants, pro-inflammatory markers, pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic markers also in liver cells’ DNA damage. The amelioration in all tested parameters has been clarified in nanoparticles’ protected mice groups. Obviously, The Fc-Ag NPCs + PZQ group recorded the best preemptive effects as anti-schistosomiasis. Fc-NPCs, Ag-NPCs and Fc-Ag NPCs could antagonize PZQ effects that were observed in amelioration of all tested parameters. The study showed the phytochemicals’ nanoparticles groups have ameliorated effect on the health of infected-administered mice.
Phosphorus affects nutrient uptake in Leymus chinensis by altering the coexistence relationships of AMF communities
Authors: Zhou Xiao guo , Zhang Yuanmei , Guo Liang , Liao Yu , Liu Fang , Sheng Jiandong , Cheng Junhui , Feng Gu , Hu Yutong
Published: May 2024

Aims
Exploring the coexistence between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) communities and plants is crucial for plant nutrient acquisition and growth, particularly under exogenous phosphorus input.
Methods
This 3-year field trial tested the effects of phosphorus (P) application rates (0, 15.3, 30.6 and 45.9 kg P ha− 1) on the nutrient uptake of Leymus chinensis and AMF communities assembly in pasture in arid zone.
Results
The results showed that P fertilization had a significant impact on the richness of AMF species (ACE) and that pH was a major factor affecting the AMF community. P fertilization increased the positive edge ratio, average path length, centralization betweenness, centralization closeness, relative modularity (RM), fragility, and natural connectivity of the network in the co-occurring network, whereas high P promoted the stability of the network (robustness and fragility). Available potassium (AK), total P (TP), and some enzyme activities have important effects on the topological properties of co-occurring networks. When the changes in the number of nodes, edges and correlations of the co-occurrence network indicated that the coexistence of AMF community was altered, whereas the phosphorus content of the roots and nitrogen content of the leaves of the Leymus chinensis were significantly related to the attribute metrics representing the coexistence of the different species of the AMF community
Conclusions
These study further elucidated the mechanism by which P changes the coexistence relationships of AMF communities and revealed the mechanisms by which this coexistence affects plant nutrient uptake.
Consecutive Northward Super Typhoons Induced Extreme Ozone Pollution Events in Eastern China
Authors: Wang Peng , Wang Peng , Wang Jiahe , Wang Jiahe , Tian Chunfeng , Tian Chunfeng , Gao Meng , Gao Meng , Cheng Tiantao , Cheng Tiantao , Mei Wei , Mei Wei
Published: May 2024

Typhoons are one of the most important weather systems that can cause severe ozone (O3) pollution in eastern China. While the effects of individual typhoons on O3 concentrations have been extensively studied, the effects of consecutive northward typhoons and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear, partly due to the complex processes involved. Here, Typhoons Maysak and Haishen, two consecutive northward typhoons in 2020, are selected to investigate their impact on the O3 pollution in eastern China. The results show that consecutive northward typhoons not only produced and maintained meteorological conditions conducive to O3 generation (e.g., elevated temperatures and intensified solar radiation), but also facilitated local accumulation and cross-regional transport of O3. These factors jointly led to a 30% increase in O3 concentration in eastern China with a prolonged period of O3 pollution. Our work underscores the significance of complex meteorological conditions in O3 pollution occurrences during extreme weather events, advancing our understanding of how consecutive northward typhoons affect air quality.
Defining the mode of action of cisplatin combined with a phosphoramidate modification of gemcitabine
Authors: Patel Dillum , Dickson Alison L. , Zickuhr Greice M. , Um In Hwa , Read Oliver J. , Czekster Clarissa M. , Mullen Peter , Harrison David J. , Bre Jeniffer
Published: May 2024

The combination of gemcitabine with platinum agents is a widely used chemotherapy regimen for a number of tumour types. Gemcitabine plus cisplatin remains the current therapeutic choice for biliary tract cancer. Gemcitabine is associated with multiple cellular drug resistance mechanisms and other limitations and has therefore declined in use. NUC-1031 is a phosphorylated form of gemcitabine, protected by the addition of a phosphoramidate moiety, developed to circumvent the key limitations and generate high levels of the cytotoxic metabolite, dFdCTP. The rationale for combination of gemcitabine and cisplatin is determined by in vitro cytotoxicity. This, however, does not offer an explanation of how these drugs lead to cell death. In this study we investigate the mechanism of action for NUC-1031 combined with cisplatin as a rationale for treatment. NUC-1031 is metabolised to dFdCTP, detectable up to 72 hours post-treatment and incorporated into DNA, to stall the cell cycle and cause DNA damage in biliary tract and ovarian cancer cell lines. In combination with cisplatin, DNA damage was increased and occurred earlier compared to monotherapy. The damage associated with NUC-1031 may be potentiated by a second mechanism, via binding the RRM1 subunit of ribonucleotide reductase and perturbing the nucleotide pools; however, this may be mitigated by increased RRM1 expression. The implication of this was investigated in case studies from a Phase I clinical trial to observe whether baseline RRM1 expression in tumour tissue at time of diagnosis correlates with patient survival.
Clinicobiochemical and GC-MS Based Serum Metabolomics for determination of Therapeutic Efficacy of Silymarin in Pneumonic Sheep
Authors: Hassan Hany , Kamr Ahmed , El-Gendy Abdel Nasser , Toribio Ramiro , Khattab Amira R. , mousa Walid , khaled Hadeer , Elkholey Abdelsalam , Kasem Mohamed , Arbaga Ali
Published: May 2024

Background: The goal of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic efficacy of silymarin against sheep pneumonia utilizing clinical, biochemical and metabolomics approaches.
Methods: Fifty adult male Barki sheep were divided into two groups based on their health status. Group 1 included healthy sheep (n = 10); Group 2 included sick sheep with clinical evidence of pneumonia (n = 40), which were further classified into four subgroups based on treatment protocols: subgroup 1 (SG1) was given traditional treatment; subgroup 2 (SG2) received traditional treatment plus daily 280 mg of silymarin orally; subgroup 3 (SG3) was administrated daily 280 mg of silymarin orally; and subgroup 4 (SG4) received daily 560 mg of silymarin orally. Evaluation of hepatic and renal function as well as serum lipid profile, glucose concentrations, malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations, and total antioxidant activity (TAC) was carried out using commercial kits. Efficacy-directed distinction between therapeutic groups was accomplished based on GC-MS generated serum metabolite profiles supported by partial least squares regression analysis (PLS).
Results: PLS score plot showed a clear discrimination between the healthy and pneumonic sheep groups that exhibited lower concentrations of TAC, total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, and glucose, but elevated liver enzyme, urea, creatinine, MDA and LDL-cholesterol (P < 0.05). Through clinical evaluations, the rapid clinical responses were achieved by the oral administration of silymarin 560 mg and through selective analysis of metabolomics profile, pneumonic therapy with 280 mg of silymarin was the best therapeutic outcome relying on a SG3 was strongly correlated with the upregulation of TAC, glucose, and total and HDL-cholesterol values.
Conclusions: Pneumonic sheep treated with silymarin exhibited healing as well as greater clinical, metabolomic and biochemical improvement than treatment with traditional treatment alone.
The anticancer effect of Metformin targets VDAC1 via ER-mitochondria interaction-mediated autophagy in HCC
Authors: Kwon Ho Jeong , Ko Minjeong , Jiho Kim , Lazim Raudah , Lee Ju Yeon , Kim Jin Young , Gosu Vijayakumar , Lee Yoonji , Choi Sun
Published: May 2024

Metformin (MetF) is widely used worldwide as a first-line therapy for type 2 diabetes. Recently, there has been increasing interest in the pleiotropic effects of MetF, such as its anti-cancer and anti-aging properties. However, the molecular target of the MetF and the detailed mechanism underlying its cell growth inhibitory effects through autophagy induction remain incompletely elucidated. In this study, using an innovative label-free DARTS/LC-MS/MS methods, we discovered that the mitochondrial voltage-dependent anion channel 1 (VDAC1) is a novel binding protein in the autophagy-related cell death activity of high-dose MetF in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Computational alanine scanning mutagenesis revealed that MetF and VDAC1 (Asp9, Glu203) interact electrostatically. MetF disrupts the IP3R-GRP75-VDAC1 complex, which plays a key role in stabilizing mitochondria-associated ER membranes (MAMs) by binding to VDAC1. This disruption leads to increased cytosolic calcium levels, which contributes to autophagy induction. MetF also decreased the AMP/ATP ratio and activated the AMPK pathway. Cells genetically knocked down for VDAC1 mimicked the activity of MetF. In conclusion, this study provides new insights into the involvement of MetF in ionic interactions with VDAC1, contributing to its anticancer effects in HCC. These findings help to elucidate the diverse biological and pharmacological effects of MetF, particularly its influence on autophagy, as well as the potential of MetF as a therapeutic agent for diseases in which VDAC1 is overexpressed.
Needle/electrode insertion mechanism for measuring plant electrical signals
Authors: Servin Miguel Angel Garcia , Chávez Amanda Kim Rico , Sánchez Magdalena Mendoza , Garcia José Alfredo Acuña , Gonzalez Ramón Gerardo Guevara , Medina Luis Miguel Contreras
Published: May 2024

Plants generate electrical signals in response to mild and severe environmental stimuli to transmit physiological information and ultimately trigger defensive responses during stressful events. It has been proposed that detecting and characterizing such signals could allow researchers to mimic specific electrical stimuli and provoke desirable responses in crops. Nevertheless, manually inserting electrodes in plant tissues leads to irregular data records due to a lack of uniformity across insertion events. For this reason, we manufactured a prototype of an electrode/needle insertion mechanism built in aluminum and acrylic and used it to measure electrical signals caused by drought in Capsicum annum plants. As results the mechanism had a more consistent performance in the characteristics of the insertion as depth, alignment between electrodes and with plant stem. As well, the mechanism was used for obtaining electrical signals (ES) related to drought, which, through a convolutional neural network (CNN) could be differentiated from control ES´s with an 84.91% recognition rate. It was concluded that the mechanism reduced variations in the characteristics of the electrode insertion and that it could be implemented for ES´s analysis.
Effects of Technostress and the Role of Their Descriptive Characteristics of Intensive Care Nurses on Their Job Performance
Authors: HOŞGÖR Derya GÜNDÜZ , HOŞGÖR Haydar Kerem
Published: May 2024

Backgraund: Technostress is defined as a modern adaptation disease resulting from the inability to cope with new computer technologies in a healthy way. In the context of healthcare, technostress can occur as a result of direct interaction between healthcare information technologies products and healthcare providers. This study was aimed at investigating the effect of technostress on job performance in intensive care nurses and discovering whether there were statistically significant relationships between the descriptive characteristics of the participants and the scores they obtained from the Technostress Scale and Job Performance Scale.
Methods: In the sample of this study, 214 intensive care nurses were included. , The data were collected using a Descriptive Information Form, Technostress Scale and Job Performance Scale. In addition to descriptive analysis, the t-test and One-Way ANOVA test, Pearson correlation analysis and simple regression analysis were used.
Results: The participating intensive care unit (ICU) nurses had a moderate level of technostress and a high level of job performance. The female participants’ technostress levels were statistically significantly higher than were those of the male participants. The single participants’ job performance levels were statistically significantly higher than were those of the married participants. Both technostress and job performance levels of the participants who had technological aptitude were significantly higher. There was a positive, significant and low correlation between the participating nurses' technostress and job performance levels (r: 0.146; p<0.05). The technostress variable has a 2.1% effect on the job performance levels of the participating nurses (F: 4.588; p<0.005).
Conclions: In the current literature, it is generally reported that technostress has negative results on individual and organizational outcomes; however, in the present study, the participants’ job performance improved as their technostress levels increased.
Polymorphic microsatellite markers for genetic analysis of Berkeleyomyces rouxiae, a causal agent of black root rot
Authors: USAMI Toshiyuki , Oya Akari
Published: May 2024

Berkeleyomyces rouxiae, a soilborne fungal pathogen, causes black root rot disease on various plant species including carrot, okra, tobacco, lettuce, and other important crops. For this study, we analyzed whole genome sequence of Japanese isolates of B. rouxiae and discovered 25 microsatellite sequences. Those sequences were amplified from the genomic DNA of several Japanese isolates by PCR and sequenced. That analysis revealed that the microsatellite sequences were polymorphic among isolates. These markers are useful for phylogenetic analysis, epidemiological population analysis, identification of specific isolates, and other genetic investigation of B. rouxiae.
Decellularized vascular matrix material -TEVG coated with PRP for anti-degradation and anti-inflammation
Authors: Wu Yin-Di , Xu Jian-Yi , Sun Xu-Heng , Jiang Hong-Jing , Zhou Hao-Hao , Liu Qing , Xiao Cong , Wu Yue-Heng , Lin Zhan-Yi
Published: May 2024

Background
Vascular regeneration is closely associated with inflammation response and the degradation rate of implants. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) contains various cytokines and proteins, and autologous PRP can be used to treat implants to reduce inflammation response.
Objective
To reduce the immune rejection response and degradation rate of implants in vivo by adding different derivatives of PRP.
Methods
TEVG were separately mixed with PBS, FIB, PGF, and PGF-blend to prepare different ECM implants for cell co-culture and subcutaneous transplantation experiments in rats. Tissue morphology was observed through HE, MASSON staining, and scanning electron microscopy. The impact of TEVG on macrophages was observed through cell immunofluorescence and WB. Subcutaneous transplantation in rats was assessed through HE and MASSON staining, immunofluorescence staining for CD206, CD86 to observe cell quantity and M2/M1 ratio.
Results
PBS, FIB, PGF, and PGF-blend exhibited unique morphologies under scanning electron microscopy. Both in vitro and in vivo studies showed an increase in M2/M1 ratio with PGF and PGF- coated, increasing water absorption capacity, and slowing down the metabolism of ECM materials in the body. Additionally, PRP downregulates multiple inflammation-related genes, reducing inflammatory response .
Conclusion
PGF and PGF- can reduce the immune rejection response of TEVG subcutaneous transplantation and decrease its degradation rate by reducing collagen loss in the implants.
Assessing Travel Time Performance of Multimodal Transportation Systems Using Fuzzy-AHP: A Case Study of Bhopal City
Authors: Tanwar Rahul , Agarwal Pradeep Kumar
Published: May 2024

Insufficient multimodal transportation infrastructure in Indian cities increases travel time, waiting time, traffic congestion, traffic accidents, travel costs, fast-growing energy consumption, and walking distance. The multimodal transportation system's journey time performance must be analysed to tackle these transportation concerns. Thus, this research provides a fundamental method for assessing multimodal transportation system trip time performance. This study proposes three steps for assessing travel time performance: identifying factors, generating individual indices, and evaluating the Multimodal Transport System Travel-Time Performance Index. The travel-time performance index of Bhopal city was 0.79 after evaluating the results of the individual indices (Access 0.49, In-vehicle 0.39, and Egress 0.38). Consequently, this study will help improve Bhopal's multimodal transportation system's poor locations and increase usage.
Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Anesthesiology: A Scoping Review
Authors: Sarkhosh Maryam , Kiaei Mehrdad Mesbah , Aligholizadeh Maryam , Sangi Siavash , Akbarpour Parisa , JalalKamali Elnaz
Published: May 2024

Background
Nowadays Artificial Intelligence (AI) as one of the advanced and rapidly growing technologies has had widespread effects on various aspects of human life. In the healthcare sector, the adoption of AI methodologies has gained significant momentum, particularly in enhancing patient care, with anesthesiology emerging as a field keenly embracing these technological advancements. The use of AI in anesthesia is accompanied by specific ethical and social issues that require careful examination and deep understanding. The objective of this scoping review was to compile existing literature about the ethical considerations surrounding the utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in anesthesiology.
Method
This scoping review was conducted within the first three months of 2024. The research question was "What are the ethical issues in the application of AI in anesthesia"? Based on the research question, researchers initially extracted relevant keywords using Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) and independently conducted preliminary searches in databases including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar. The study selection process was guided by predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The inclusion criteria were studies relevant to the research question. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) was used to report the review process.
Results
The search strategy yielded a total of 327 articles. Consequently, the full text of 4 studies was examined. Of these, 2 studies were excluded due to lack of relevance to the research question. In total, 2 studies (both in English) were included in this review. Both of these studies were cross-sectional studies that examined the opinions of anesthesiologists regarding the ethical implications of using artificial intelligence in anesthesia.
Conclusion
The ethical integration of AI into anesthesia holds promise for improving patient care outcomes while upholding principles of safety, fairness, and accountability. Additional training programs and updated protocols are necessary for ensuring data security, collection, and processing. Additionally, Appropriate legal regulations concerning data processing should be developed.
Critical signs and symptoms for self-assessment in the immediate postnatal period: an international Systematic Scoping Review and Delphi consensus study
Authors: Dey Teesta , Bassiony Nada , Hancock Angela , Benova Lenka , Mathai Matthews , Langlois Etienne , Ononge Sam , Lavender Tina , Weeks Andrew
Published: May 2024

Background
Every 2 minutes a woman dies from complications of pregnancy and childbirth. Most maternal deaths occur within the first 24 hours following birth, highlighting the importance of immediate postnatal care (iPNC). Self-care strategies are increasingly being employed to promote women-centred, continuous care provision. Despite international calls for development of strategies promoting self-care, none have been developed for self-monitoring in the immediate postnatal period. Fundamental to the development of a self-monitoring strategy, is an understanding of which signs and symptoms are predictive of maternal morbidity and mortality and can be easily assessed by mothers and birth companions, in health facilities, without the need for equipment. The objective of this study was to develop and achieve international consensus on the key signs and symptoms.
Methods
A multi-step approach involving a systematic scoping review, two- round Delphi Survey, and expert consensus was employed to identify key signs and symptoms that can be self- assessed and predict morbidity and mortality in the immediate postnatal period.
Results
A comprehensive list of 351 key signs and symptoms was identified from 44 clinical practice guidelines. Subsequently, 134 signs and symptoms were reviewed by Delphi respondents and international expert consensus was achieved for 19 key signs and symptoms across seven condition categories. The signs that were considered both important and able to be self-assessed by mothers and birth companions in the first 24 hours following birth included change in consciousness, seizure, severe headache, persistent visual impairment, urinary incontinence, chest pain, shortness of breath, severe pallor, fast heartbeat, rejection of baby, suicidal/infanticidal, fever, heavy blood loss, soft flabby uterus, unable to urinate easily, foul smelling discharge, rigors, syncope/dizziness, abnormal coloured urine.
Conclusion
This study identified key signs and symptoms which can be easily assessed by mothers and birth companions in the immediate postnatal period to identify those most at risk of morbidity and mortality. Further work is needed to validate this screening tool, and adapt it for other regions and countries.
Bioenergetic phenotype of hippocampal neurons in various inbred mouse strains
Authors: Zelentsova Alexandra S. , Shmigerova Veronika S. , Skorkina Marina , Deykin Alexei V.
Published: May 2024

Phenotypic changes in energy metabolism are one of the key reasons for changes in brain function during the development of neurodegenerative diseases. The aim of the work was to study cell respiration features and the energy phenotype in inbred mouse strains. The primary mixed culture of hippocampal neurons isolated from embryos on the 18th day of gestation and from newborn mice on the 2nd day was used. Based on the measurement results maps of the metabolic profile of the neuron-glia culture was constructed. As a result, of the study, an increased oxygen consumption rate was established both in the E18 culture by 16.95 (p < 0.05) and in P2 by 32% (p < 0.05) in APP mice. The lowest level of basal mitochondrial respiration was characteristic of the primary mixed culture of neurons obtained from HPRT mice in the E18 culture, the oxygen consumption rate decreased by 23.7% (p < 0.05), in the P2 culture - by 52.4% (p < 0.05). On the E18 and P2 hippocampal culture derived from mice with models of neurodegeneration (APP, Tau) revealed an increased bioenergetics demand, an aerobic type of metabolism and the absence of switching the energy phenotype under physiological conditions were established. The identified features should be taken into account in the further when planning experiments to study the mechanisms of influence of various pharmacological substances on the respiratory function of neurons.
Experimental Study on the Dynamic Rebound Modulus and California Bearing Ratio (CBR) Characteristics of Coarse-grained Chlorine Saline Soils and Evaluation of Road Performance
Authors: CHEN Xin , GAO Lin , WANG Yongze , LIU Xuejun , Li Bolin
Published: May 2024

To explore the control indexes of coarse-grained chlorine saline soils used as subgrade fillings, a series of indoor dynamic triaxial tests and CBR tests are conducted. And then the evolution law of the dynamic rebound modulus and CBR of coarse-grained chloride saline soils is analyzed under the conditions of different stress levels, water content, and salt content. The experimental results show that the dynamic rebound modulus increases with the increase of confining pressure and body stress, and decreases with the increase of deviatoric stress. The CBR increases with the increase of unit pressure. At the same level of stress, the higher the salt content and water content, the more significant the effect of stress on the dynamic rebound modulus and CBR, and the salt content has a more significant impact than that of water content. The maximum reduction amplitudes in the dynamic rebound modulus are 43.3% and 13.5% corresponding to salt content and water content, respectively. The maximum reduction amplitudes in the CBR are 65.9% and 51.4%, respectively. Finally, based on the experimental data, a prediction model of the road performance index is proposed and the salt content threshold values of coarse-grained chloride saline soils used as subgrade fillings are calculated at different depths. The results of the study provide a solid support for the use of coarse-grained chloride saline soils as subgrade fillings.
Qualitative study exploring health professionals’ experiences concerning dementia in Mexico with a policy analysis perspective
Authors: Cervantes Gloria , Acosta Isaac , Pacheco-Domínguez Reyna Lizette , Durán-Arenas Juan Luis Gerardo
Published: May 2024

Background
Dementia has been declared a priority public health problem, however there still a need for policies to be put in place. Mexico, as a developing nation, has taken some policy actions but there still much to be done. In this paper, we analyze the experiences of service providers to people with dementia. This qualitative study identifies barriers and opportunities to promote policy change.
Methods
Data was collected through 30 in-depth interviews based on a semi-structured guide with health professionals - Geriatricians, Neurologists, Psychiatrists, Family Practitioners - who care for people with dementia, and researchers in health research institutions. For the analysis, the Policy Space framework was used.
Results
The care for dementia people is performed by medical specialists whose approach depends on their type of training. Some of the barriers identified are that care is provided in a fragmented manner depending on each institution, and people with dementia are arriving late to the health services. Opportunities found to be promoted in public agendas are early identification of cognitive impairment and leverage prevention of chronic diseases like hypertension and diabetes.
Conclusions
There is evidence for the need to take action, and various initiatives are available, but the challenge remains to put policies for the care of dementia syndromes on the public health agenda.
The influence of sex on activity in voluntary wheel running, forced treadmill running, and open field testing
Authors: Janowski Adam J. , Berardi Giovanni , Hayashi Kazuhiro , Plumb Ashley N. , Lesnak Joe B. , Khataei Tahsin , Martin Ben , Benson Christopher J. , Sluka Kathleen A.
Published: May 2024

Introduction
Physical activity is commonly used for both measuring and treating dysfunction. While preclinical work has been historically biased towards males, the use of both male and female animals is gaining popularity after multiple NIH initiatives. With increasing inclusion of both sexes, it has become imperative to determine sex differences in common behavioral assays. The purpose of this study was to determine baseline sex differences in 3 activity assays: voluntary wheel running, forced treadmill running, and open field testing.
Methods
This was a secondary analysis of sex differences in healthy mice in 3 different assays: Separate mice were used for each assay. Specifically, 16 mice underwent 28 days of voluntary wheel running, 178 mice underwent forced treadmill running, and 88 mice underwent open field testing. Differences between sex across several activity parameters were examined for each assay.
Results
In voluntary wheel running, sex differences with larger effect sizes were observed in distance run, running time, and bout duration, with smaller effect size differences in speed, and no difference in total bouts. In forced treadmill running, differences were shown in time to exhaustion, but no difference in max speed attained. In open field, there were sex differences in active time but not in distance and speed in data aggregated over 30 minutes; however, distance and speed in male mice showed a downward trajectory over the final 20 minutes of testing, whereas females maintained the same trajectory.
Conclusion
These data suggest that male mice demonstrate comparable activity intensity as female mice but do not match female’s duration of activity, especially for volitional tasks. Researchers utilizing these assays should account for sex differences as they could potentially mask true findings in an experiment.
IFN-γ synergizes with TNF-α to induce RIPK1-independent necroptosis of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells
Authors: Ren Xiang , Huo Jiali , Li Xingxin , Wang Min , Jin Peng , Nie Neng , Zhang Jing , Huang Jinbo , Zheng Yizhou , Ge Meili
Published: May 2024

Interferon gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) are two vital inflammatory factors elevated in many diseases. An inflammatory microenvironment is detrimental to residual cells, yet the precise mechanisms of cell impairment are not fully understood. IFN-γ and TNF-α have distinct effects on the immunoregulatory properties of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) and they have been raised to be optimal prime factors to enhance the immunosuppressive capacity of in vitro engineered MSCs. However, controversies remain with regard to the normal function maintenance of cells as they may be impaired after exposure to inflammatory factors. Here, we found that IFN-γ synergises with TNF-α to induce cell dysfunction and death of MSCs via necroptosis. When MSCs were exposed to both IFN-γ and TNF-a, its morphological features and biological functions were injured. Mechanistically revealed by RNA-Sequencing, the injured MSCs undergone a unique cell death process, namely necroptosis. Compared with controls, IFN-γ and TNF-a synergistically increased the expression of RIPK1, RIPK3, MLKL and all other genes associated with necroptosis significantly. Rescue experiments further showed that the process could be reversed by RIPK3 and MLKL inhibitor but RIPK1inhibitor, suggesting a RIPK1-independent pathway and a promising cell preservative approach. Collectively, these results disclose an inflammatory injury mechanism of MSCs, which may shed new light on revealing the MSCs deficits in some inflammation associated diseases with expectations to innovate some potential targeted therapies. In addition, inflammatory impairment should be taken into consideration when delivering cell therapy based on MSCs primed with IFN-γ and TNF-α.
Analyzing the Efficiency of Moroccan Hospital Network Regions via DEA and Tobit Regression: Assessing DEAP 2.1 Software versus Generative AI ChatGPT 3.5
Authors: Er-Rays Youssef , M'dioud Meriem
Published: May 2024

This study aims to assess the technical efficiency of hospital networks in each health directorate region in Morocco and analyze the impact of staff personnel health on inefficiency. The study uses Data Envelopment Analysis Programming (DEAP) software version 2.1 and generative Artificial Intelligent ChatGPT 3.5 to analyze 12 hospital network health directorate regions. Tobit regression was employed to analyze the impact of worker health and hospital activity on inefficiency. Results showed that the average technical efficiency was more inefficient in generative AI ChatGPT 3.5 than in DEAP software version 2.1. Hospital activity and nurse staffing significantly impacted inefficiency levels. The study concludes that inefficiency in hospital networks and staff personnel health pose challenges for managers in health directorate regions, emphasizing the need for New Public Management principles based on contractualization, accountability, and managerial practices.
Prenatal diagnosis and counseling of fetal chromosomes with structural abnormalities
Authors: Lv Guojian , Liu Yi , Sun Xuecheng , Mu Kai
Published: May 2024

Objectives
To explore the pregnancy, fertility risk and genetic suggestions of pregnant women with complex structural abnormalities of fetal chromosomes.
Study Design
Amniotic fluid puncture, chromosome culture of amniotic fluid and chromosome G banding analysis were performed on 9867 pregnant women who came to our hospital for prenatal diagnosis from 2012 to 2023, CMA was performed in 8 pregnant women with complex structural abnormalities in amniotic fluid.
Results
Chromosome G banding analysis showed that the karyotypes of all 8 cases were structural abnormalities, with deletion and duplication, combined with CMA results, comprehensive analysis showed that case 1 was derived chromosome 3 with deletionof 3p13p14. In case 2, 7q11.23q21.3 was inserted at 4q31.3. Case 3 was derived chromosom 16 with deletion of 16p13.3 and duplication of 18q12.3q23. Case 4 was derived chromosome 9 with duplication of 20p12.1p13. Case 5 was derived chromosome 21 with duplication of 2p22.2p25.3 and 21q11.2q21.3. Case 6 was derived chromosome21 with duplication of 18q12.3q23; Case 7 was derived chromosome 4 with duplication of 4q26q35.2(116376542_188138856) and deletion of 4q35.2(188155531_190957460), and case 8 was derived chromosome X with duplication of Xp22.31p11.1(9041083_58455353) and deletion of Xp22.33p22.31(168552_9040480).
Conclusion
The combination of G-banding analysis technology and CMA can not only detect the complex structural abnormalities of the amniotic fluid chromosomes, but also determine whether the missing or repeated regions contain important genetic genes. Then, by referring to the results of the parents' chromosomes or the results of ultrasound examination, the abnormalities of fetal chromosomes are summarized and analyzed, so as to obtain clinical consultation opinions.
The impact of violence on the health of the Black population from the Colombian Pacific region: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Rocha-Buelvas Anderson
Published: May 2024

Background
The Black communities who inhabit the Colombian Pacific Coast experience high risk levels due to the persistence of an armed conflict and the presence of a variety of illegal armed groups. Likewise, in comparison to the rest of the country, these communities face poor health conditions, a higher prevalence of preventable diseases, and a lower life expectancy at birth. This study was aimed at identifying the impact of violence on the health of the Afro-Colombian population from Tumaco (Narino, Colombia).
Methods
A cross-sectional observational study was conducted applying a survey to 280 victims of the armed conflict. A bivariate analysis was carried out using chi square test and Odds Ratio, together with a logistic regression.
Results
Most of the victims were young low-income women, who are at a higher risk of suffering from depression, injuries or poisonings caused by environmental pollution, malaria, and cardiovascular diseases as a consequence of their exposure to violent events. The most important effect of violence on the population’s health is the difficulty in completing their academic formation, and the determinants of violence that most strongly affect their health are housing conditions and unsatisfied basic needs.
Conclusions
In order to reduce the social inequalities of the victims of armed conflict it is necessary to update and improve the regulatory framework that oversees health, justice, politics, education and agriculture in Colombia. In addition, more studies and policies are required to mitigate the impact of violence on the Black population of the Colombian Pacific region who are young, poor and female.
Arsenic Removal from Synthetic Wastewater Using UiO-66 and Comparing it with Other Adsorbents
Authors: Miri Gazal , Hematian Saeideh , Daraee Maryam , Peyvandi Kiana
Published: May 2024

The occurrence of arsenic in the surface and groundwater resources threatens human health in time of exposure to people for drinking water, or other applications. In this study, metal organic framework of UiO-66 was synthesized to use for arsenic removal adsorption application. The adsorbent sample was analyzed with XRD & BET before and after removal adsorption. In the XRD analysis of the synthesized UiO-66 adsorbent, strong characteristic peaks indicated that impurities are not seen in the sample crystal structure, and the BET analysis measured its specific area equal to 712.45 m2/g. The removal of from the synthetic wastewater sample was carried out using UiO-66, natural zeolite treated with acid and base and metal oxide SiO2 adsorbents. By comparing the sorbents in equal operating conditions, the results showed that UiO-66 and acid-washed zeolite respectively have the highest removal efficiency compared to other nano sorbents. Researchers investigated how different factors affected the removal of arsenic using an absorbent called UiO-66. They used software to design experiments that tested the effects of pH, temperature, and the amount of UiO-66 used. The best conditions for arsenic removal were found to be a pH of 9, a temperature of 25°C, and 0.5 grams of UiO-66 per liter. Under these conditions, the maximum arsenic removal was 62.16%, with an adsorption capacity of 10.98 milligrams of arsenic per gram of UiO-66. The researchers also studied how quickly the arsenic was absorbed and found that the process fit two different models. Finally, they compared UiO-66 to another absorbent, acid-washed zeolite, and found that UiO-66 removed more arsenic in all cases.
AI-Powered Evolutionary Algorithm for Optimizing Truck Scheduling in Multi-Dock Truck Cross-Docking Centers
Authors: Nogueira Thiago Henrique , Coutinho Felipe Provezano , Peixoto Maria Gabriela Mendonça , Carrano Eduardo Gontijo , Ravetti Martín Gómez
Published: May 2024

Fast and adaptive logistics are essential for meeting evolving customer expectations and needs. In response to recent shifts in consumer behavior, which have altered the perceived value of products, companies, and services, organizations are increasingly turning to intelligent algorithms to swiftly adapt to various scenarios. Cross-docking, a strategy known for enhancing flexibility and reducing delivery times, is central to this approach. This paper introduces an advanced AI-driven framework utilizing an evolutionary algorithm to tackle the multi-dock truck sequencing challenge in cross-docking centers, aimed at minimizing makespan. Our method includes a machine learning-based parameter tuning strategy, enabling the algorithm to automatically adjust to different instances without human intervention. We evaluated our framework by comparing results obtained with and without machine learning tuning against state-of-the-art methods. The findings indicate that our AI-enhanced approach not only delivers superior feasible solutions but also achieves these results with reduced computational times, positioning it as a highly effective tool for logistics optimization.