bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the chemo-preventive role of noscapine in lung carcinoma via therapeutic targeting of human aurora kinase B
Authors: Noor Saba , Islam Khursheed Ul , Choudhury Arunabh , Yousuf Mohd. , Raza Ali , Ansari Mohammad Ahmad , Ashraf Anam , Hussain Afzal , Hassan Md. Imtaiyaz
Published: February 2024

Lung carcinoma is the major contributor to global cancer incidence and one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Irregularities in signal transduction events, driver genetic alterations, and mutated regulatory genes trigger cancer development and progression. Selective targeting of molecular modulators has substantially revolutionized cancer treatment strategies with improvised efficacy. The aurora kinase B (AURKB) is a key component of the chromosomal passenger complex and is primarily involved in lung cancer pathogenesis. Since AURKB is an attractive therapeutic target, the design and development of its potential inhibitors is an attractive strategy. In this study, noscapine, a benzylisoquinoline alkaloid, was selected and validated as a potential inhibitor of AURKB using integrated computational, spectroscopic, and cell-based assays. Molecular docking analysis showed noscapine occupies the substrate-binding pocket of AURKB with strong binding affinity. Subsequently, MD simulation studies confirmed the formation of a stable AURKB-noscapine complex with non-significant alteration in various trajectories, including RMSD, RMSF, Rg, and SASA. These findings were further experimentally validated through fluorescence binding studies. In addition, dose-dependent noscapine treatment significantly attenuated recombinant AURKB activity with an IC50 value of 26.6 µM. Cell viability studies conducted on A549 cells and HEK293 cells revealed significant cytotoxic features of noscapine on A549 cells. Furthermore, Annexin-PI staining validated that noscapine triggered apoptosis in lung cancer cells, possibly via an intrinsic pathway. Our findings indicate that noscapine-based tandem AURKB inhibition can be implicated as a potential therapeutic strategy in lung cancer treatment and can also provide a novel scaffold for developing next-generation AURKB-specific inhibitors.
Associations between pinch strength, cardiovascular events and all-cause mortality in patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Yang Yaqi , Liu Lin , Li Yuzhuo , Tan Rongshao , Zhong Xiaoshi , Liu Yun , Liu Yan
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims:
Patients undergoing maintenance hemodialysis (MHD) experience increased mortality and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks; however, the potential connection between pinch strength (PS) and the prognosis of these patients remains unknown. Consequently, this study aimed to comprehensively assess the influence of PS and handgrip strength (HGS) on both survival and cardiovascular events (CVE) in patients undergoing MHD, providing valuable insights for clinical decision-making.
Methods:
Data were gathered from patients undergoing MHD at the Hemodialysis Center of Guangzhou Red Cross Hospital in March 2021. We performed a retrospective follow-up spanning 24 months, utilizing death or CVE as the primary observation endpoints. Multifactorial Cox regression analysis, Kaplan–Meier survival curves, trend tests, and restricted cubic spline were applied to explore the association.
Results:
During a 24-month follow-up, data were collected from 140 patients undergoing MHD with an average age of 66.71±12.61 years. Among them, 52 (37.14%) experienced mortality, whereas 36 (40.00%) had CVE without baseline CVD at a mean age at onset of 63.87±12.74 years. Using the restricted cubic spline method, a linear connection was observed between PS and all-cause mortality. Adjusted analyses in different models revealed higher PS levels were independently associated with all-cause mortality but not with CVE risk (unadjusted HR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.77–1.05). Kaplan–Meier survival curves demonstrated better survival rates and reduced CVE risk for patients in the second, third, and fourth quartiles compared with those in the first quartile for PS.
Conclusions:
PS was independently associated with all-cause mortality but not with CVE in patients undergoing MHD.
Fecundity without nectar is insufficient for persistence of a blue butterfly
Authors: King Kelsey C , Schultz Cheryl
Published: February 2024

Organisms with complex life cycles undergo ecological transitions between life stages, often resulting in stage-specific resource use. The relative contribution of each stage-specific resource to vital rates influences population dynamics and subsequently whether habitats can support viable populations. In Lepidopterans, survival to reproduction requires sufficient resources for immature life stages, but the extent to which resources for adults are critical to population persistence is variable. We studied Boisduval's blue butterflies (Icaricia icarioides), in a greenhouse experiment, to quantify the effect of the adult diet, nectar, on vital rates. Butterflies fed ad libitum produced 3.4 times more eggs, on average, over their lifetime and lived 6 more days relative to those which only had access to water. We used these experimental data to parameterize a population model to test if vital rates with and without nectar result in viable population growth rates. We found that Boisduval’s blue butterfly populations will not persist without nectar resources (λ < 1). In this species, although host plant resources contributed to reproduction and allowed the butterfly to produce ~50 eggs without nectar, these resources consumed as larva did not compensate for adult malnutrition beyond a critical threshold. The relative abundance and quality of each stage-specific resource can therefore determine at what threshold other resource(s) are limiting the population. This study highlights the value of incorporating effects on vital rates across the life cycle to evaluate the effect on populations.
Analysis of population structure and selection signatures for artificial domestication of Rock Bream (Oplegnathus fasciatus) in coastal China
Authors: Huang Peihong , Gong Jie , Ke Qiaozhen , Li Bijun , Zhao Ji , Chen Baohua , Zhou Zhixiong , Bai Yulin , Xu Peng , Zhou Tao
Published: February 2024

Studying domestication is crucial to understanding the genetic diversity and adaptive evolution of species. Thus, the purpose of this study is to screen the selection signatures on the whole genome of rock bream (Oplegnathus fasciatus) in the history of evolution and domestication. Whole genome resequencing was performed on 75 individuals from six wild rock bream populations and one domesticated farmed group. Genetic differentiation coefficient (FST), nucleotide diversity (Pi) and the Minimum Allele Frequency (Maf) difference were applied to detect the selection signatures. Principal component analysis, population structure analysis and linkage disequilibrium decay analysis were conducted to understand the genetic differences between wild and cultured populations. The results of genetic diversity and population structure analyses indicated significant differences in genetic structure between the wild and domesticated populations, while no such differences were observed among the six wild populations. Selective signature analysis screened 80 target genes, including genes associated with behavioral traits (RCAN1,MEIS2), skeletal development and growth (CasR), immunity (CaMK4), and energy metabolism (PDK2). These findings unveil the underlying molecular genetic mechanisms responsible for domestication in rock bream and offer a vast array of genetic variation across the genome to aid in future selective breeding.
Experimental and Numerical Diagnostics of Flow Properties in the HEK-X Expansion Tube
Authors: Shimamura Kohei , Shigeru Hara , Tanno Hideyuki
Published: February 2024

This study proposes a scheme for understanding the flow conditions in a super-orbital expansion tube. Visualization experiments and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis were combined to analyze the flow dynamics of the JAXA HEK-X superorbital expansion tube. Experiments were performed at shock wave velocities of 6–8 km/s using a wedge and hemisphere probe setup, with oblique and bow shock waves visualized using a dual camera system. Atomic O-777 nm emission was also measured at the stagnation point of the hemispherical probe using the band-pass filter to compare the CFD with radiation analysis results. The CFD results, validated with visualization and 777 nm radiation measurement results, mean that the temperature, density, and velocity of the test flow can be identified, and the degree of oxygen atom dissociation in the test flow can be accurately predicted, including the degree of accuracy.
Navigating the Genetic Frontier for the Integration of Genetic Services into African Healthcare Systems: A scoping review
Authors: Kamga Karen Kengne , Fonkam Marlyse Pallissa , Nguefack Séraphin , Wonkam Ambroise
Published: February 2024

Background: The integration of genetic services into African healthcare systems is a multifaceted endeavor marked by both obstacles and prospects. This study aims to furnish evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and healthcare entities to facilitate the effective assimilation of genetic services within African healthcare systems.
Methods: Employing a scoping review methodology, we scrutinized peer-reviewed studies spanning from 2003 to 2023, sourced from PubMed, Scopus, and Africa-wide databases. Our analysis drew upon eight pertinent research studies conducted between 2016 and 2023, encompassing diverse genetic topics across six African nations, namely Cameroon, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, and Tanzania.
Results: The reviewed studies underscored numerous challenges hindering the implementation of genetic services in African healthcare systems. These obstacles encompassed deficiencies in disease awareness and education, impediments to genetic testing, resource scarcities, ethical quandaries, and issues related to follow-up and retention. Nevertheless, the authors also identified opportunities and strategies conducive to successful integration, emphasizing proactive measures such as community engagement, advocacy, and the fostering of supportive networks.
Conclusion: The integration of genetic services in Africa holds promise for enhancing healthcare outcomes but also poses challenges and opportunities for healthcare and biotechnology enterprises. To address gaps in disease awareness, we advocate for healthcare providers to invest in educational initiatives, forge partnerships with local institutions, and leverage digital platforms. Furthermore, we urge businesses to innovate and devise cost-effective genetic testing models while establishing online forums to promote dialogue and contribute positively to African healthcare.
A possible origin of the inverted vertebrate retina revealed by physical modeling
Authors: Oomens Jan M. M.
Published: February 2024

The evolutionary origin of the inverted retina in the vertebrate eye is unknown. This paper explores a hypothetical evolutionary scenario that explains the illogical orientation of the photoreceptors in the vertebrate retina. The proposed scenario follows the scientific accepted scenario for eye evolution and gradually builds up toward a proto-eye by considering light direction detection and increase in achievable spatial resolution as the driving forces. It suggests that eye retinas developed along two different morphological processes. An evagination process that results in the inverted retina in vertebrate eyes. An invagination process that results in a verted retina in mollusc eyes. The development of the inverted vertebrate retina and proto-eye morphology is strongly substantiated by physics of vision. The proposed evolutionary sequence for vertebrate eye development is simple and has the full potential to explain the origin of the inverted retina and leads to a proto-eye enabling visual detection and orientation. It allows the emergence of eye structures like, extraocular muscles, cornea, lens, and pupil. This study supports the suggestion that a primitive inverted retina in the predecessor of vertebrates is of ectodermal origin and available before neurulation occurred.
First record of Milk thistle (Silybum marianum, Asteraceae) as a potential invasive weed species in Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia
Authors: Kassie Weldesenbet Beze
Published: February 2024

Early detection, identification and management of invasive weed species are important works in Integrated Pest Management program. Since 2020, Milk thistle, Silybum marianum, an invasive weed species, has been observed widely in urban green spaces and roadsides in Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia. This study aimed to determine the current distribution status of the weed in urban green areas of Addis Ababa city, Ethiopia to plan future management activities. Weed surveys were conducted across 42 urban green sites located in Yeka, Lemi Kura, Bole, Nifas Silk-Lafto, Kolfie Keraniyo, Akaky Kality and Gullele sub-cities during the main rainy season from June to September 2023. The urban green areas were selected by using purposive sampling techniques. Field observations confirmed that Silybum marianum can invade and colonize wide habitats and is a highly competitive invasive weed to other important native plant species. High weed density rates and dense stands of weeds were recorded in the 34 urban green areas. The survey result strongly suggests fast integrated weed management options such as mowing/tilling, weeding before the plant goes to seed, cutting (stems and/or seed heads), and burning (collected plant parts and/or seed heads) into a prepared burrow were done to minimize the spreading of the weed and its ecological impacts.
The evaluation of wear processes of the rolling-sliding contact by means of flake wear debris in dry and wet contact
Authors: JOHN Antoni , Bąkowski Henryk , Śleziak Bogusław
Published: February 2024

One of the tasks of this paper is to explain the cause-and-effect relationship of the influence of operating parameters on the wear of the wheel-rail system where fatigue processes are initiated. In this way, learning about and defining the nature of the phenomenon, makes it possible to determine the reliability of component operation. The aim of this study was to determine the influence of operational parameters on tribological properties of the rolling-rail contact representing the wheel-rail association in real operating conditions. Determining the form of wear on the basis of laboratory tests carried out on an Amsler-type wear testing machine in the wheel-roller system makes it possible to determine the nature of changes occurring as a result of cyclic interaction of normal and tangential forces on the surface of the tested material, without the need for long-term and costly observation of the tested object in normal operation. Quantitative metallographic analysis of the morphology of wear debris was used to determine the intensity of surface wear. Determination of the influence of operational parameters on the stereological characteristics of wear debris makes it possible to predict the regenerative grinding of rails in service in the track and allows practical application by the sections of operation and diagnosis of the railway system.
Comprehensive Approach to in silico Identification and in vitro Validation of Anti-Filarial Lead Molecules Targeting the Dimer Interface of Thioredoxin Peroxidase 1 in Wuchereria bancrofti: A Progress in Anti-Filariasis Drug Development
Authors: Muthusamy Sureshan , Sundarraj Rajamanikandan , Kadhirvel Saraboji
Published: February 2024

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) remains a significant health challenge for populations in developing countries, including India. LF is a parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes, caused by three types of nematodes: Wuchereria bancrofti, Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori, prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions. Filarial nematodes are transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes carrying L3 larvae during a blood meal. The human immune system generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) in response to the invading nematodes. Nevertheless, the nematode's antioxidant enzymes effectively counteract the oxidative cytotoxicity induced by the host. The enzyme thioredoxin peroxidase 1 (TPx1) is a member of the peroxiredoxin family, which facilitates the conversion of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into water (H2O), which is highly used by nematodes to maintain oxidative stress in the host throughout their life cycle. Therefore, developing appropriate therapeutic compounds by targeting TPx1 might aid in resolving difficulties with treatment efficacy and activity at various stages of filarial parasitic worms. To find the potent inhibitors, we modelled the three-dimensional structure of WbTPx1, and its dynamic stability was assessed by molecular dynamic (MD) simulation studies. A structure-based virtual screening approach was used to find the most promising leads from the small molecule collection, focusing on the dimer interface region of WbTPx1. The predicted in silico ADMET profiles for the top-ranked hits revealed that the non-toxic lead compounds had the greatest docking score, ranging from − 7.410 kcal/mol to -6.887 kcal/mol, and the identified leads showed higher affinity to WbTPx1 than HsTPx1 based on the cross-docking studies. Throughout the simulation of the WbTPx1-lead complex, the lead molecules exhibited stability and remained intact within the binding site. Furthermore, the in vitro validation of the chosen leads based on computational results in the filarial worm Setaria digitata exhibited higher inhibition and better IC50 than the standard drug ivermectin. Hence, the identified leads have the potential to inhibit enzyme activity, serving as possible drug candidates for the control of LF.
Add-on multiple submucosal injections of the RNA oligonucleotide GUT-1 to anti-TNF antibody treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis: An open-label, proof-of concept study
Authors: Suzuki Kenji , Sameshima Yukinori , Yokoyama Junji , Terai Shuji , Yoneyama Hiroyuki , Atreya Raja , Neurath Markus F. , Hibi Toshifumi , Asakura Hitoshi
Published: February 2024

Background: Carbohydrate sulfotransferase 15 (CHST15) is an enzyme biosynthesizing matrix glycosaminoglycan that modulates tissue remodeling. We evaluated the efficacy of add-on submucosal injections of GUT-1, the RNA oligonucleotide inhibitor of CHST15, to ongoing anti-tumor necrosis factor (TNF) antibody treatment in patients with moderate-to-severe ulcerative colitis (UC).
Methods: This was an open-label study of 250 nM of GUT-1 by endoscopic submucosal injections at weeks 0, 2, 4 in five UC patients who lost response during maintenance treatment to anti-TNF antibodies. The primary endpoint was the rate of endoscopic improvement at week 6 and secondary endpoints included the rates of clinical remission by modified Mayo Score (mMS). Patients received follow-up observation with continuous maintenance treatment by the same anti-TNF antibody till the time of clinical recurrence or for overall 52 weeks.
Results: At week 6, rates of endoscopic improvement and clinical remission were 80% (n=4/5) and 60% (n=3/5), respectively. The mean Endoscopy Subscore was reduced from 2.4 (95%CI: 1.7 to 3.1) at baseline, to 1.0 (95%CI: 0.1 to 1.9) at week 6. The mean mMS was reduced from 7.8 (95%CI: 6.2 to 9.4) to 1.3 (95%CI: 2.9 to 4.3). GUT-1 was well tolerated. Three patients did not show clinical recurrence for 52 weeks. All three corticosteroid-dependent patients showed no corticosteroid exposure for at least 24 weeks after achieving clinical remission. Multiple dosing was also well tolerated.
Conclusions: Add-on multiple injections of GUT-1 to ongoing anti-TNF antibody was able to induce rapid and durable clinical responses in UC patients who lost response to anti-TNF therapy.
Clinical trial Registration Number (Japan): UMIN000020900
The role of integrin-related genes in atherosclerosis complicated by abdominal aortic aneurysm
Authors: Ma Likang , Chen Keyuan , Tang Lele , Chen Liangwan , Qiu Zhihuang
Published: February 2024

Background
Increasingly, the shared risk factors and pathological processes of atherosclerosis and abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) are being recognized. The aim of our study was to identify the hub genes involved in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis and AAA.
Methods
The analysis was based on two gene expression profiles for atherosclerosis (GSE28829) and AAA (GSE7084), downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Common differential genes were identified and an enrichment analysis of differential genes was conducted, with construction of protein-protein interaction networks, and identification of common hub genes and predicted transcription factors.
Results
The analysis identified 133 differentially expressed genes (116 upregulated and 17 downregulated), with the enrichment analysis identifying a potential important role of integrins and chemokines in the common immune and inflammatory responses of atherosclerosis and AAA. Regulation of the complement and coagulation cascades and regulation of the actin cytoskeleton were associated with both diseases, with 10 important hub genes identified: TYROBP, PTPRC, ITGB2, ITGAM, PLEK, CTSS, LY86, ITGAX, CCL4, and FCER1G.
Conclusions
Findings identified a common pathogenetic pathway between atherosclerosis and AAA, with integrin-related genes playing a significant role. The common pathways and hub genes identified provide new insights into the shared mechanisms of these two diseases and can contribute to identifying new therapeutic targets and predicting the therapeutic effect of biological agents.
PEGylation renders carnosine resistant to hydrolysis by serum carnosinase and increases renal carnosine levels
Authors: Zhang Shiqi , Yang Guang , Zhang Qinqin , Fan Yuying , Tang Mingna , Shen Liuhai , Zhu Dongchun , Zhang Guiyang , Yard Benito
Published: February 2024

Carnosine’s protective effect in rodent models of glycoxidative stress have provided a rational for translation of these findings in therapeutic concepts in patient with diabetic kidney disease. In contrast to rodents however, carnosine is rapidly degraded by the carnosinase-1 enzyme. To overcome this hurdle, we sought to protect hydrolysis of carnosine by conjugation to Methoxypolyethylene glycol amine (mPEG-NH2). PEGylated carnosine (PEG-car) was used to study the hydrolysis of carnosine by human serum as well as to compare the pharmacokinetics of PEG-car and L-carnosine in mice after intravenous (IV) injection. While L-carnosine was rapidly hydrolyzed in human serum, PEG-car was highly resistant to hydrolysis. Addition of unconjugated PEG to carnosine or PEG-car did not influence hydrolysis of carnosine in serum. In mice PEG-car and L-carnosine exhibited similar pharmacokinetics in serum but differed in half-life time (t1/2) in kidney, with PEG-car showing a significantly higher t1/2 compared to L-carnosine. Hence, PEGylation of carnosine is an effective approach to prevent carnosine degradations and to achieve higher renal carnosine levels. However, further studies are warranted to test if the protective properties of carnosine are preserved after PEGylation.
Treatment of late left bronchopleural fistula after left pneumonectomy through right thoracic approach assisted by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Li Wenhao , Liu Kejun , Liao Xiaozu , Li Binfei , Liang Yi , Huang Weizhao
Published: February 2024

Background
Bronchopleural fistula (BPF) is a rare but fatal complication after pneumonectomy. When a BPF occurs late (weeks to years postoperatively), direct resealing of the bronchial stump through the primary thoracic approach is challenging due to the risks of fibrothorax and injury to the pulmonary artery stump, and the surgical outcome is generally poor. Here, we report a case of late left BPF following left pneumonectomy successfully treated using a right thoracic approach assisted by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).
Case presentation:
We report the case of a 57-year-old male patient who underwent left lower and left upper lobectomy, respectively, for heterochronic double primary lung cancer. A left BPF was diagnosed at the 22nd month postoperatively, and conservative treatment was ineffective. Finally, the left BPF was cured by minimally invasive BPF closure surgery via the right thoracic approach with the support of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO).
Conclusions
Advanced BPF following left pneumonectomy can be achieved with an individualized treatment plan, and the right thoracic approach assisted by ECMO is a relatively simple and effective method, which could be considered as an additional treatment option for similar patients.
Clinical efficacy and safety of vasopressin and its analogues in patients with septic shock: a meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis
Authors: dong milan , Li Shaojun , Jiang Jing , Pi Dandan , Li Jiashan , Bai Xuehan , Lu Yiqi , Xu Feng , Li Xuemei , Li Jing
Published: February 2024

Background The guidelines recommend norepinephrine as the first-line drug for the treatment of septic shock, with vasopressin as a complementary drug. However, there is currently no conclusive evidence on the difference in clinical outcomes between vasopressin and norepinephrine in the treatment of septic shock. The aim of this updated meta-analysis was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of vasopressors compared to catecholamines in managing septic shock patients.
Methods We conducted a study that included literatures published from inception to August 31, 2023, using databases such as MEDLINE (via PubMed), Embase, Web of Science (WOS), and CENTRAL. The study only included articles published in English. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared vasopressin with catecholamine alone in septic shock patients were included in this meta-analysis. Pooled effects of relative risk (RR) or mean difference (MD) and their corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated using a random/fixed-effects model based on the heterogeneity.
Results: Twenty-four studies, involving a total of 4080 participants, were included in the analysis. The combined analysis of vasopressin did not show a significant reduction in 28-day/90-day/ICU/hospital mortality or total mortality (RR, 0.95; 95% CI 0.88–1.02; P = 0.14). This finding was further confirmed by sensitive analyses. However, when considering underlying disease in a subgroup analysis, vasopressin demonstrated benefits in reducing mortality (RR, 0.86; 95% CI 0.75–0.99; P = 0.04), while terlipressin performed even better (RR, 0.74; 95% CI 0.62–0.89; P < 0.01). The pooled analysis also indicated a significant reduction in mechanical ventilation duration with vasopressin (MD -0.60, 95% CI -1.10~-0.11, P = 0.02) and lower norepinephrine doses (MD -10.81, 95% CI -16.78~-4.83, P < 0.01). Additionally, the data suggested a 29% decreased risk of renal replacement therapy in the vasopressin group, but a 2.85 times higher risk of digital ischemia. However, there were no significant differences observed in ICU-LOS, SOFA score change, lactate change, and other adverse events.
Conclusions: According to research, vasopressin has shown potential in reducing mortality rates among septic shock patients with underlying diseases. Therefore, when treating patients with septic shock, healthcare professionals should carefully consider the benefits and drawbacks of using vasopressin and make a personalized treatment approach.
UCAD: commUnity disCovery method in Attribute-based multicoloreD networks
Authors: Domgue Félicité Gamgne , Tsopze Norbert , Ndoundam René
Published: February 2024

Many hierarchical methods for community detection in multicolored networks are capable of finding clusters when there are interslice correlation between layers.
However, in general, they aggregate all the links in different layer treating them as being equivalent. Therefore, such aggregation might ignore the information about the relevance of a dimension in which the node is involved. In this paper we fill this gap by proposing a hierarchical classification based-Louvain method for interslice-multicolored networks. In particular we define a new node centrality measure named \textit{Attractivity} to describe the inter-slice correlation that incorporates within and across-dimension topological features in order to identify the relevant dimension. Then, after merging dimensions through a frequential aggregation, we group nodes by their relational and attribute similarity, where attributes correspond to their relevant dimensions.
We conduct an extensive experimentation using seven real-world multicolored networks, which also includes comparison with state-of-the-art methods. Results show the significance of our proposed method in discovering relevant communities over multiple dimensions and highlight its ability in producing optimal covers with higher values of the multidimensional version of the modularity function.
Observational study on sex hormone levels in peripheral blood of male patients with anorectal abscess and anal fistula
Authors: Zhang Xi , Zhang Qiang , Wang Minjie , Sun Yanting , Lu Jingen
Published: February 2024

Objectives
To investigate the preoperative levels of sex hormones in patients with anorectal abscesses and anal fistula.
Design and methods:
Male patients with anorectal abscesses, anal fistula, and hemorrhoids were preoperatively admitted to the Department of Anorectal Medicine, Longhua Hospital, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine(SHUTCM) between October 2021 and March 2023. Patients are grouped according to disease. For each group, sex hormones were evaluated before the operation.
Results
A total of 249 male patients were eligible for the study, including 64 patients in the hemorrhoid group, 64 patients with anorectal abscesses, and 121 patients with anal fistula. Patients with anorectal abscesses had significantly lower testosterone(T) levels than patients with hemorrhoids and fistula (P = 0.003, P < 0.001), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were higher than those in the fistula group (P = 0.027). Tlevels are even lower in patients with anorectal abscesses when the following conditions are present: leukocytes above the normal range abscesses greater than or equal to 2 quadrants in extent, no fistula formation, and duration of disease less than 7 days. In patients with fistulas, T levels were lower in overweight patients and those with fistulas with internal openings above the dentate line, while diabetes, hypertension, type of fistula, number of fistulas, and presence of inflammatory bowel manifestations were not significantly associated with T levels.
Conclusions
Low T levels suggest early, severely infected, unformed fistula disease features in patients with anorectal abscesses, as well as high internal openings in patients with anal fistulas.
Using a composite Catalyst in The gasification process, in-situ Plastic Waste is converted to Energy.
Authors: Abdelrahman Ameen , Erchiqui Fouad , Nedil Mourad
Published: February 2024

The world is eager to find a solution to reduce the phenomenon of climate change and transition to sustainable and renewable resources in all facets of our lives as we live in this period. Climate change and the emission of greenhouse gases are closely related issues. In that study, we focused on finding ways to reduce municipal management of plastic solid waste and conversion to enhance gases and solid carbon instead of direct incineration or disposal. In order to fracture a variety of plastic debris (PEHD, PELD, PVC, and PS) in a fixed bed reactor system, we created composite materials made of three transition metal oxides (manganese, titanium, and iron). These materials were built using layers of bentonite clay. To enrich and improve gas yields and product quality, the gasification reaction has been set up with customizable, parameter-optimized heating rate, loading, and reaction time settings. For the distribution of composites and products, many characterization techniques, including XRD, TEM, SEM, GC, and EDX (Gas yield and char weight ratio), have been used.
The automation of feedback in collaborative learning: A design ethnography of maritime simulation
Authors: Sellberg Charlott , Sharma Amit
Published: February 2024

Collaborative learning in high-fidelity simulators is an important part of how master mariner students are preparing for their future career at sea, becoming part of a ship’s bridge team. This study aims to inform the design of an intelligent learning system to be used for providing adaptive feedback to master mariner students engaged in collaborative learning activities in high-fidelity simulators. Through a design ethnographic approach, we are basing or analysis on video records of everyday training practices at a simulator center in Scandinavia. Findings show how the delivery of feedback in simulation training consist of recurring, multilayered, and multimodal feedback cycles. These cycles consist of the instructors’ close monitoring of the students' actions to continuously assess the fit between the learning objectives and the ongoing task, to provide feedback that draws on the rich semiotic resources of the simulated environment while considering aspects of realism and authenticity of importance for professional learning. Considering the multilayered and multimodal nature of feedback in professional learning contexts, as well as the role-playing character of feedback in simulator-based maritime training, our results highlight the importance of taking on a multimodal learning analytics approach to gather data on how students collaboratively engage with their tasks to design feedback that have the potential to scaffold their learning trajectories.
Regulatory Impact Analysis for the Risk Based Lot Release Policy for Biological Products in Egypt
Authors: Abd El- Rady Doaa , Ragheb Lobna , Sheded Shaimaa , Isamail Asmaa , El-Hosary Engy
Published: February 2024

For public health and lifesaving, timely access to high-quality biological products is essential. However, barriers including resource scarcity, limited human capacity, and complex supply chains impede this goal. National regulatory authorities should enhance their frameworks and move forward for regulatory convergence and harmonization & enhancing reliance practice in order to address these concerns. A risk-based lot release policy is one of the enablers that ensure implementation of smart regulations and best practices was employed by Egyptian drug authority (EDA) to boost the effectiveness of the lot release framework while upholding safety, efficacy and quality criteria. The legal framework for lot release in Egypt was examined using a regulatory impact analysis method. With a considerable impact on time and cost savings, as well as a better net benefit value, the new risk-based lot release policy has the potential to greatly increase the efficiency of Egypt's LR regulatory system for biological products. Nevertheless, significant challenges and unexpected consequences were also noted, including the need for ongoing capacity building and growing regulatory requirements based on best practices. The findings have major reflections for drug policy makers and regulators looking to enhance their biological product regulatory systems; since the policy's benefits outweigh these possible challenges. This paper offers a full examination of the risk-based lot release policy used by the EDA, Egypt for biological products, assisting in understanding both the benefits and challenges of this approach.
Optimization of Fraud Detection Model with Hybrid Machine Learning and Graph Database
Authors: Albone Aan
Published: February 2024

Machine learning and the graph database work well together. By concentrating on the relationships between fraudsters or fraud cases, graph databases can provide an additional layer of security, while machine learning uses statistics and data analytical tools to categorize information and identify patterns within data. In doing so, it can transcend rigid rules and scale human insights into algorithms. When combined with a graph, machine learning alone can increase the accuracy of fraud signals to 90% or higher. On its own, it can reach 70–80%. Graphs also improve machine learning's explainability.
Comparing CNN Architecture for Indonesian Speciality Cuisine Classification
Authors: Wulandari Ajeng
Published: February 2024

Indonesia's diverse and flavorful cuisine is a hidden gem, reflecting the nation's rich history and cultural tapestry. However, many of these culinary treasures remain undiscovered by a wider audience despite the popularity of beef rendang. This study represents a fascinating blend of technology and gastronomy, using smart computers to unravel the secrets of Indonesian flavors. This research employs one of the most popular neural networks methods called Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to shine a light on many citizens' favorite regional specialty cuisine which is Padang cuisine from West Sumatra, Indonesia. Gathering a collection of 993 images from 9 various dishes, the machine is trained to automatically recognize these unique culinary delights. Among several different Convolutional Neural Network models trained and tested, DenseNet-201 emerged as the top performer, showcasing remarkable accuracy, precision, recall and f1-score higher than 0.90. By harnessing the power of advanced neural networks, we not only gain insights into the intricacies of the region's culinary traditions but also pave the way for a deeper appreciation and understanding of the cultural significance embedded in every bite. Beyond this research technological achievements, it also emphasizes the importance of preserving and promoting Indonesia's diverse culinary heritage and rich tapestry of global food heritage.
Use Case Diagram for Enhancing Warehouse Performance at PT. MDA Through the Implementation of 5S, Economic Order Quantity, Safety Stock, and Warehouse Management System
Authors: Kurniawan Michael Radius , Hadiyanto Hadiyanto , Zulkarnaen Joe Daniansyah Pahlevi , Harito Christian
Published: February 2024

An industrial water pump importing company relies on a network of distribution warehouses to efficiently manage the storage and delivery of its products to clients. This paper delves into the operational intricacies of the company, with a primary focus on sustaining a superior level of service to meet customer demands, all while attempting to minimize costs and achieve optimal inventory control. The central aspects explored in this research encompass the meticulous determination of the number of pipes needed and the optimal ordering times. To address this, the Probabilistic Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) method is used and supported by 5S concept, recognized for its ability to provide reasonably accurate estimates crucial for pivotal decision-making in inventory management. The utilization of the Probabilistic EOQ method in this context reflects the company’s commitment to adopting sophisticated and proven methodologies to enhance decision-making accuracy and the warehouse area is more suitable by the 5S implementation principles. The research outcomes not only assist in refining the determination of Safety Stock levels but also contribute valuable insights into the precise quantities of goods that should be ordered. This strategic approach aligns with the company’s overarching goal of achieving cost-efficiency without compromising on the ability to efficiently meet customer demands. These upcoming insights could encompass innovative strategies, technological implementations, or advances in supply chain optimization.
Features of cardiac arrhythmias in patients with acute st-segment elevation myocardial infarction who underwent COVID-19
Authors: Mikhin Vadim P. , Gindler Anna I. , Zaikina Natalia V. , Zaikina Margarita P. , Nikolenko Tamara A. , Savelyeva Valentina V. , Chernyatina Marina A.
Published: February 2024

Objective: to conduct a comparative assessment of the parameters of heart rhythm and conduction in patients with Covid-19 with acute ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in the hospital and post-hospital treatment periods. Materials and methods. The study included 140 patients with STEMI, stratified into 2 groups: I - the main (52 people) patients with STEMI who had COVID-19 for 1.5-6 months before the development of acute coronary syndrome (ACS), II - the comparison group (88 people) with STEMI without COVID-19 in the anamnesis. All patients underwent percutaneous coronary intervention with stenting of a single infarct-related artery in the first 24 hours. Daily ECG monitoring was performed with an assessment of traditional heart rate and conduction parameters for 2-3 days, 9-11 days and after 6 months from the moment of the accident. Results. In the main group, in contrast to the control group, a shortening of the QT interval (7.7% vs. 0.0%), ventricular extrasystole (VES) of Lown grade IV A (25.0% vs. 7.9%) was more often recorded on 2-3 days. Supraventricular extrasystole (SVE; 92.0% vs. 65.4%), sinus arrhythmia (37.5% vs. 0.0%), supraventricular tachycardia (SVT; 7.9% vs. 0.0%) were more often recorded in group II on 2-3 days. During the hospital follow-up period, the retention of shortened QT (7.7% vs. 0.0%), predominance SVE (90.4% vs. 76.1%), sinus arrhythmia (48.1% vs. 29.5%), migration of the rhythm driver along the atria (15.3% vs. 0.0%), VES Lown grade IV A (9.6 % vs. 0.0%). In the control group, AV blockade of 1 deg. (15.9% vs. 3.8%), AV blockade of 2 deg. (4.5% vs. 0.0%), CA blockade (3.4% vs. 0.0%), QT prolongation (12.5% vs. 0.0%) were more often determined. By 6 months after STEMI, patients in the main group were more likely to have SVT (9.6% vs. 0.0%) and VES Lown grade IV A (7.6% vs. 0.0%). In the control group, AV blockade of 1 deg. (9.0% vs. 0.0%), CA blockade (3.4% vs. 0.0%) were registered. Conclusion. Patients with STEMI who had a history of COVID-19 and without COVID-19 had a multidirectional dynamics of heart rate and conduction parameters during the hospital and post-hospital follow-up periods. In patients who underwent COVID-19, there was a predominance of ventricular arrhythmias of high Lown gradations on 2-3 days of STEMI, an increase in supraventricular arrhythmias on days 9-11, an increase in supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias of high Lown gradations and the absence of CA and AB disorders after 6 months. In the control group, there was a predominance of supraventricular and ventricular arrhythmias of low gradations according to Lown, a predominance of CA and AB conduction disorders on days 9-11 and 6 months after STEMI.
Chronic heart failure with moderately low ejection fraction
Authors: Osipova Olga A. , Gosteva Elena V. , Shepel Ruslan N. , Serdyukova Anna V. , Kryshka Anastasia A. , Inshakova Kristina Y. , Ulyanova Anna Y. , Brizhaneva Anastasia S. , Saraev Igor A.
Published: February 2024

Chronic heart failure (CHF) as one of the cardiovascular complications is among the most frequent causes of death and repeated hospitalizations of patients, representing a great burden on the health care system. Currently, the assessment of left ventricular (LV) ejection fraction (EF) is the cornerstone of classification of patients with CHF, the main criterion for diagnosis, phenotyping, prognosis and decision on the choice of pharmacotherapy strategy. Traditionally, patients with heart failure were divided according to a threshold value of PV greater than or <50%. In 2016, CHF was divided into three subgroups depending on LVEF: CHF with low LVEF (HFrEF; LVEF <40%), CHF with moderately low LVEF (HFmrEF 40-49%), and preserved LVEF (HFрEF≥50%). At the same time, to date, the data on HFmrEF are extremely limited and are represented by single publications in this area. Therefore, the research aimed at studying this category of patients is very promising. The aim of the review is to analyze the current data on CHF, in particular epidemiology, etiology, clinical characteristics and prognosis of patients.
Food Allergy in Children with Atopic Dermatitis (Possibilities of Laboratory Diagnosis)
Authors: Trunova Olga A. , Maylyan Eduard A. , Prokhorov Evgeny V. , Prilutsky Alexander S. , Bagriy Andrey E.
Published: February 2024

Objective - determination of the frequency of manifestation of allergic reactions of reaginic and cellular types in vitro to food allergens in children with atopic dermatitis (AD). Materials and methods. We examined 284 children aged 0 to 14 years: 200 children with AD in 4 age groups and 84 control children. Investigated total IgE, histamine and serotonin in the blood. A semi-quantitative method in ELISA identified specific IgE antibodies to 67 food allergens, and in leukocyte migration capillary tube technique (LMCT) the presence of delayed-type sensitization to 42 food allergens. Results. The levels of total Ig E, histamine and serotonin in children with AD were significantly higher than the control. The average value of positive results for the presence of specific IgE antibodies to any food allergens was 46.2±4.57%. Banana, goat's milk, tomatoes, egg protein and cow's milk casein topped the ranking. According to the results of LMCT, delayed sensitization of the cell type was determined on average in 40.38±4.81% of tests. The leaders were allergens of hake, black coffee, glucose, peas, rye flour, orange, corn flour and peanuts. Conclusions.AD develops in children already at an early age (up to 3 years), with an excess of control values of total serum IgE by 4.8 times (p<0.01), histamine - by 1.3 times (p<0.01), serotonin - 1.2 times (р<0.001). Reaginic and cellular reactions are involved in the occurrence of food sensitization. Methods of laboratory diagnosis of food allergy are preferable to skin tests and allow young children to simultaneously determine sensitization to a large number of allergens.
Study of the effect of the "Antiseptic Dorogov's stimulator" (ASD 2B-drops) on the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis strain
Authors: Engashev Sergey V. , Kukes Vladimir G. , Poddubikov Aleksandr V. , Sidorov Nikita G. , Leonova Anna Yu. , Parfenova Olga K. , Gazdanova Albina A. , Dorogova Olga A.
Published: February 2024

Objective - to study the effect of three different concentrations of the drug "ASD-2B drops" on the growth of M. tuberculosis strain № 22063. Materials and methods. The effect of three different concentrations of "ASD-2B drops" on the growth of M. tuberculosis strain № 22063 with a single addition of the drug into the reaction mixture was evaluated. Cultivation was carried out in Dubos broth for growing mycobacteria at 37°C for 20 days with periodic assessment of the turbidity index using a densitometer. Results. "ASD-2B drops" at a concentration of 750 µl in 10 ml of the reaction mixture after a single addition at the zero point inhibited the growth and accumulation of biomass of M.tuberculosis strain № 22063 for 10 days compared with the control. "ASD-2B drops" in lower concentrations (37.5 µl and 75 µl) contributed to an increase in the growth and accumulation of biomass of M.tuberculosis strain № 22063 compared with the control. Conclusion. The experiment demonstrated the ability of "ASD-2B drops" with a single addition to influence the growth and accumulation of biomass of M. tuberculosis strain № 22063, depending on the concentration of the drug. The presence of an inducing effect on the M. tuberculosis strain № 22063 provides a basis for further studies of the drug "ASD-2B drops".