bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on intelligent semi-active control algorithms and seismic reliability based on machine learning
Authors: Xiao Zhongyuan , Xu Jianguo , Wang Li , Huang Liang
Published: April 2024

Aiming to address the shortcomings of existing semi-active control algorithms with poor robustness and the limited generalization ability of current evaluation methods based on deterministic analysis, a novel approach based on probability density evolution is proposed. This method is designed to assess the seismic reliability, enabling a more comprehensive evaluation of the control effectiveness of aqueduct structures. Building upon this, an intelligent semi-active control algorithm leveraging machine learning is introduced. The algorithm is further validated through engineering case studies to investigate semi-active control strategies in response to random seismic events. The results show that the seismic reliability of the machine learning-based semi-active control algorithm is significantly higher than that of the uncontrolled state for the same failure threshold under random seismic effects.
Streamlining Data Transfer: Unlocking the Potential of 8-to-1 Photonic Crystal Fiber Multiplexing for Enhanced Connectivity
Authors: Harrat Assia Ahlem. , Debbal Mohammed. , Ouadah Mohammed Chamse Eddine
Published: April 2024

The ability to transmit data at a high transmission rate is one of the main challenges that has limited the performance of visible light networking systems. In this paper, we present an eight-core photonic crystal fiber designed for multiplexing (MUX) operations at wavelengths of 1.32, 1.3, 1.54, 1.19, 1.4, 0.98, 1.35, and 1.1 µm to overcome this issue. Various MUX parameters, such as transmission rate and normalized power, are examined in this numerical study. A multiplexer is a device that enables multiple messages or signals to be conveyed simultaneously through a single communication channel. A specific type of optical fiber, called photonic crystal fiber (PCF), is used in this context, which has a cladding made of photonic crystals surrounding the fiber core. The fiber features a periodic arrangement of tiny air holes along its length, creating a low-loss periodic dielectric material known as a photonic crystal. In this new design, silica rods are employed instead of multiple air-hole zones along the fiber's length to adjust the coupling length between adjacent channels. The results indicate that after 5.5 mm of light propagation, the operating wavelengths can be effectively multiplexed.
NeRF in NeRF: An Implicit Representation Watermark Algorithm for NeRF
Authors: Chen Lifeng , Liu Jia , Sun Wenquan , Dong Weina , Di Fuqiang
Published: April 2024

The Neural Radiation Field (NeRF) has achieved significant results in the field of computer vision. However, training NeRF models requires a large amount of computing resources and training data. Once the model is stolen or abused by illegal users, it may cause huge losses to copyright owners. This article proposes a watermarking framework for copyright protection using Implicit Neural Representation (INR). After implicitly representing the watermark information, we embed the network representing the watermark information into the network of the NeRF model by designing a specific key. The copyright verifier extracts the watermark from the NeRF model using the key to prove the copyright of the NeRF model. To our knowledge, this is the first time INR has been introduced into the copyright protection of the NeRF model. The experimental results show that our method not only has high robustness and maintains good 3D reconstruction quality, but also achieves lossless (100%) extraction of watermark information, effectively protecting the copyright of the NeRF model.
Enhancing Single Object Tracking with Temporal Information
Authors: Abboud Mai , Jafar Assef , Hamdoun Omar
Published: April 2024

This study introduces an enhancement approach for single object tracking (SOT) algorithms, aimingto use temporal information with minimize architectural changes while preserving the original modeldimensions with minimal impact on the speed. Most state-of-the-art approaches prioritize effectivefeature extraction from the object or the search window images, while temporal information is oftenneglected. Additionally, many deep models used in SOTs are time-consuming compared to traditionaltrackers. This study focuses on SwinTrack V2 as our case study due to its absence of temporalinformation utilization and its excellent performance on GOT-10k dataset. The method suggest addinga third input to the model, which is an updated object template. The initial template features arefused with the updated template using an attention block, which effectively preserves the originalmodel dimension. Our additional block improves performance when testing on Got-10k dataset by 0.9% for average overlap AO and by 2.1% for success rate SR0.5 compared to the original tracker,with only a slight impact on speed.
In vitro evaluation of cytotoxic impact of Adenium obesum crude extract on EJ138 bladder carcinoma cells
Authors: Moula Seyed Mahmoud , Zargan Jamil , Mohammadi Ashkan Hajinoor , zadeh Mohammad Sadegh Odeh
Published: April 2024

Bladder cancer is a prevalent neoplasm that exhibits higher incidence rates in males than females. The most common clinical manifestations of bladder cancer are hematuria, reduced urine flow, and urinary frequency. Plant-derived compounds have emerged as promising candidates for anti-tumor therapy. Adenium obesum extract has demonstrated various biological activities, such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, antiviral, immunomodulatory, anti-malarial, and anti-trypanosomal effects. The aim of this study was to examine the cytotoxic effects of Adenium obesum crude extract (0.25, 0.5, and 1 µg/mL) on the bladder cancer cell line EJ138 in vitro. Cell viability was assessed by MTT assays, Neutral red uptake, and NO assays. Oxidative stress was evaluated by GSH and catalase assays. Apoptosis was detected by a comet assay. The results showed that Adenium obesum decreased EJ138 cell viability in a concentration-dependent manner. NO production also declined with increasing concentrations of Adenium obesum, except at 0.25. GSH and catalase assays indicated oxidative stress induction in EJ138 cells. A comet assay revealed significant apoptosis induction in a concentration-dependent pattern. These findings imply that Adenium obesum possesses potent anti-cancer properties and may be a potential source of anti-tumor agents.
Assessment of Deforestation and Forest Degradation drivers in Pallandri Azad Kashmir
Authors: Saleem Waqar , Manan Pervez , Ghufran Muhammad Asad , Aziz Maria , Nawaz Abid
Published: April 2024

Forestry sector is one of the main greenhouse gas contributors at global level as Deforestation and Forest Degradation contributes about 1.6 billion tonnes of CO2 to the global annual greenhouse gases emissions. Developing countries accounts for 75% of the emissions because their livelihood depends on forests. Pakistan is one of the top listed countries responsible for GHGs emissions including its subnational unit i.e., Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Therefore drivers responsible for deforestation and forest degradation shall need to be identified to address this issue in more advanced way. Hence the objective of this study was to identify the main drivers of deforestation and forest degradation in Pallandri tehsil of district Sudhnoti, AJK. The results showed that main prioritized drivers of deforestation and forest degradation in the study area were Unsustainable Timber Extraction, Infrastructure Development, Encroachment and Mining, Agriculture Expansion for Subsistence, Unsustainable Wood Extraction, Forest Fires, and Livestock Grazing respectively. According to this study, in general the key reasons for deforestation and forest degradation in Pallandri were water scarcity, land sliding and wood shortages.
Effects of Pomelo Polysaccharide on fat deposition and liver health of orange-spotted grouper (Epinephelus coioides)
Authors: 张 潇潇 , Wu Yingxin , Sun Zizhen , Zeng Xianzi , Lin Li , Liu Yifan , Qin Zhendong , Bai Weidong , Ou Baiqiao , Li Peiyaun , Wu Jinhui , Zou Cuiyun
Published: April 2024

High density and intensive aquaculture of fish often lead to some nutritional and metabolic related diseases. This experiment was designed to investigate the effect of Pomelo Polysaccharide on reducing fat deposition. Five groups of feeds were prepared: control group, low-fat diet group (7.57% fat content), low-fat diet with pomelo polysaccharide group (TDF1 group), high-fat diet group (15.48% fat content), and high-fat diet with pomelo polysaccharide group (TDF2 group). Orange-spotted groupers after 8 weeks of rearing, samples were taken to analyze the growth performance, nutrient composition, liver morphology, enzyme activities and the expression of immune-related genes in liver tissues. The results showed that the weight gain rate (WGR) of groupers in the low-fat diet group was significantly lower than the control group (P < 0.05), while the TDF1 group and TDF2 group were higher than those in the low-fat diet group and high-fat diet group, respectively. Liver damage occurred in the low-fat diet group and the high-fat diet group, while the TDF1 group and the TDF2 group showed improvement in liver tissue structure damage, and the liver lipid droplets in the TDF 2 group decreased significantly compared with the high-fat diet group. Moreover, the TDF2 group significantly inhibited the up-regulation of inflammation and apoptosis-related genes IL-1β, IL-8, caspase-3, and caspase-8. These results indicate that the addition of pomelo polysaccharide can reduce the fat deposition in the liver caused by feeding high-fat feeds, and can have a certain effect on the enhancement of immune function and improve the health of liver of groupers.
Characterization of the Anterior Loop, Accessory Mental Foramen, and Lateral Lingual Foramen Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
Authors: Shokri Abbas , Maleki Mohammad Mahdi , Tapak Leili
Published: April 2024

Objective: The presence of the anterior loop, accessory mental foramen, lateral lingual foramen, and other details in the mental foramen region can complicate surgeries in this area, which may vary among different populations. This study aims to investigate these features in Iranian population.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study utilized Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) images from patients at the Dental College of Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, encompassing 703 patients providing 1362 mandibular halves. Evaluations were conducted on various sections of CBCT images to examine the targeted structures. Data analyses were performed using IBM SPSS Statistics software (v20.0; IBM Corp) with appropriate statistical tests.
Results: The anterior loop was observed with a prevalence of 22.15% on the right side with an average length of 2.918 mm (range 1-6 mm) and 22.56% on the left side with an average length of 2.628 mm (range 0.9-5 mm). The nerve exit direction was predominantly vertical (67.27%), posterior (26.91%), and anterior (5.79%). Accessory mental foramina were present in 8.27% of cases, ranging from 1 to 3 foramina with an average count of 1.0446, where 1.51% of individuals had bilateral occurrences. Lateral lingual foramina were found in 45.6% of individuals either on the right or left side, with 24.65% having bilateral presences.
Conclusion: According to the findings, ALs, AMFs, and LLFs frequently occur in Iranian population. Considering the impact of racial, gender, and age characteristics on the variations of these anatomical structures, it is recommended to conduct similar studies in different populations.
“We will die having sex” – gender, health and cultural influences on sexual practices among older people in South Africa
Authors: Nyirenda M. , Sukazi S. , Buthelezi C. , Hanass-Hancock J.
Published: April 2024

As the global population aging accelerates, especially in low-middle-income countries, an increase in age-related and sexual health challenges can be expected. However, for various reasons including a focus on reproductive ages, ageist stereotypes, taboos and stigma and limited resources, sexuality as broadly defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) in older adults is often neglected. This study used qualitative methods to explore the attitudes and perceptions of sexuality and sexual behaviour among older adults aged 50 years and above. Focus group discussions with 37 South African men and women (aged 50-78) were thematically analysed using an ethnographic and phenomenological naturalistic paradigm. Four major themes emerged from the analysis: the importance of sexuality and frequency of sexual activity, gendered perspectives on sexual activity, health state as a barrier to sexual activity, and cultural influences on sexuality and behaviour. Study highlights the significant role cultural norms and beliefs can play in old-age sexuality, with distinct gender differences in sexual practices. Health conditions, including chronic illnesses, disabilities, frailty and HIV status can act as barriers to sexual activities among older adults. Understanding these barriers and facilitators of sexuality in older adults is crucial in addressing sexual health concerns and challenges faced by older adults. Overall, the study contributes valuable insight into the often-neglected topic of sexuality in older adults, and the complexity of factors influencing sexual behaviours in ageing populations. There is a need for a holistic approach and further research to bring this subject matter to the attention of policy and programme makers. The scarcity of data and evidence on sexuality and sexual health needs of older adults in low-and-middle-income countries hinders the development of policies and targeted interventions to address the specific sexual health needs of older adults.
The risk factors for colorectal cancer liver metastasis in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Nie Mengke , Qiao Yiqian , Wang Bin , Wang Tianjun , Ma Xiaowei , Zhi Jie , Jia Yitao
Published: April 2024

Background and Objective: To investigate the occurrence of colorectal cancer (CRC) liver metastasis (CRLM) and the risk factors in mice with Alzheimer's disease (AD).
methods: Mice in the AD group (APP/PS1 models of AD) and the control (CON) group (wild-type C57BL/6J mice) were injected with MC38 cells to establish CRLM models. After the experiment, the tumor nodules on liver surface were counted, and the liver weight, volume were measured. 16S rDNA sequencing, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, Pearson’s analysis and immunohistochemical technique were showed to investigate the impact of AD on CRLM and its possible mechanism.
Results: Compared to the CON group, the AD group exhibited a increase in the number of tumor nodules on the liver surface, with consistent findings in both liver weight and volume measurements correlating with the metastatic count. Analysis of 16S rDNA sequencing revealed distinct alterations in the intestinal microbiota of the AD group. Furthermore, relative to the CON group, the AD group exhibited notably elevated levels of NGF expression in both the colon and liver. Additionally, discernibly elevated concentrations of VEGF and CXCL12 were observed in both serum and liver tissues of the AD group compared to the CON group. The results of Pearson correlation analysis indicated positive correlations between intestinal NGF levels and both hepatic CXCL12 and VEGF levels. The AD group had smaller number of hepatic KCs than that in the CON group.
Conclusions: AD accelerates CRLM. The mechanism may be caused by gut flora affecting hepatic KCs, thus linking the brain-gut-liver axis.
Designing an immersive virtual reality environment for hand rehabilitation purposes: A preliminary study
Authors: Tastan Yahya , Başpınar Ulvi , Hamurcu Ahmet , Bal Abdullah , Okay Burcu Bulut , Bakır Barkın , Demiroğlu Murat , Topuz Vedat , Erguzel Türker Tekin , Acar Gonul
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the influence of immersive virtual reality environments and gamification on the classification of imaginary motor (MI) signals and the associated increase in energy in the motor cortex region for neurorehabilitation purposes. Two immersive virtual environments, indoor and outdoor, were selected, each with gamified and non-gamified scenarios. Event-Related Desynchronization (ERD) data underwent analyses to determine if there were significant differences in ERD levels between distinct age groups and whether Fully Immersive Virtual Reality (FIVR) environments induced notable energy increases.
The initial analysis found no significant energy changes between age groups under constant environmental conditions. In the second analysis, FIVR environments did not lead to a statistically significant increase in cortical energy for the 21–24 age group (Group I). However, a notable difference in cortical energy increase was identified between gamified and non-gamified environments within the 32–43 age group (Group II).
The study also explored the impact of environmental factors on MI signal classification using four deep learning algorithms. The Recurrent Neural Network (RNN) classifier exhibited the highest performance, with an average accuracy of 86.83%. Signals recorded indoors showed higher average classification performance, with a significant difference observed among age groups. Group I participants performed better in non-gamified environments (88.8%), while Group II achieved high performance indoors, especially in the gamified scenario (93.6%). Overall, the research underscores the potential of immersive virtual environments and gamification in enhancing MI signal classification and cortical energy increase, with age and environmental factors influencing the outcomes.
Impact of Endodontic Problems on the Quality of Life of Patients in School Clinic Endodontic Problems on the Quality of Life
Authors: Azevedo Anne Karollyne Lima de , Lech Elouize , Konkel Karen , Ferreira Gabriela , Morandi Hayla , Silva Fabrício Rutz da , Amaral Regiane Cristina do
Published: April 2024

Background: to evaluate the impact of endodontic problems on the quality of life related to oral health of patients with confirmed diagnosis of endodontic pathology, using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP-14). Methods: this is a cross-sectional study carried out with patients in need of endodontic treatment seen at the outpatient clinics of two undergraduate courses in Dentistry in the years 2018 and 2019. The patients underwent detailed anamnesis and answered the OHIP-14 questionnaire. Results: the 97 patients from the UNIUV educational institution and 50 patients from the UFS educational institution were evaluated. The average age was 37 (± 13) years, 59% were women, 27% declared no income and 66% had more than 8 years of study. When associating the variables with OHIP 14 with or without impact in relation to quality of life, a statistically significant difference (chi-square) was found for sex and pain. It appears that the dimensions most affected were psychological discomfort and physical pain. Conclusions: pain of endodontic origin had an impact on the quality of life of the patients evaluated.
Ocorrência, dominância, frequência e densidade de plantas infestantes na implantação de sistemas integrados de produção agroflorestal
Authors: Marques Gabriel Gugel , Souza Pablo Georgio de , Ribaski Nayara Guetten
Published: April 2024

Introdução: O estudo sobre a ocorrência, dominância e frequência de Plantas Infestantes (PI) é fundamental quando a alta produção é buscada, uma vez em que as PI podem diminuir a produção agrícola significativamente quando não monitorada/controlada. Objetivos: Avaliar a ocorrência, dominância frequência e a densidade de plantas infestantes na implantação de sistemas integrados de produção agroflorestal e comparar com as avaliações realizadas com o uso de drones. Materiais e Método: A avaliação in loco para identificação seja ela por meio de fotos (as quais importadas no aplicativo para identificação), ou usando-as para fazer a identificação pelo manual de identificação de plantas daninhas, ocorreram mensalmente em todas as 16 parcelas do experimento em ambos cultivos (florestal/agrícola), essa avaliação ocorreu de forma aleatória em cada parcela de cultivo, sendo que, para cada parcela foram coletadas 12 unidades amostrais de 1 m². Como auxílio para captação de imagens das plantas daninhas (PD), foi utilizado o drone Phanton 4, e após essa etapa essas imagens foram importadas e processadas com uso de software QGis, a partir desse mensurado a dominância das PD em função da área ocupada e estas por sua vez comparadas com a avaliação realizada em campo pelo levantamento fitossociológico, sendo os resultados submetidos a uma análise de normalidade pelo teste f. Resultados: Verificou-se que a avaliação trimestral por meio de vistas in loco com o uso do manual de identificação contribuiu para maior agilidade na coleta dos dados, no entanto, não sendo prática e rápida comparando com a identificação realizada com auxílio do aplicativo ou drone. A utilização do Drone para a identificação de plantas infestantes, apresentou pouca eficiência, uma vez em que com o mesmo não foi possível a identificação das plantas em determinados estádios de desenvolvimento, demonstrando-se impreciso. Assim utilização do Drone é uma excelente opção para a vistoria total da área na busca de reboleiras de falhas e/ou doenças. Considerações Finais: A identificação pelo caminhamento na área e a instalação de parcelas de 1 metros quadrado, ainda é o método recomendado, evidenciando a necessidade de aprimoramento na metodologia de utilização das demais tecnologias visando sua futura aplicabilidade.
Plataforma para interpretação de dados econômicos da agricultura de precisão
Authors: Marques Gabriel Gugel , Silvestrin Aline Roberta de Carvalho , Ribaski Nayara Guetten
Published: April 2024

A agricultura de precisão está cada vez mais presente no cotidiano dos produtores rurais. O emprego da tecnologia é responsável por economias em todo o processo de produção, e esse é um dos principais motivos para a justificativa da comercialização das tecnologias de agricultura de precisão. Além de muito importante para os agricultores, as vantagens econômicas proporcionadas pela agricultura de precisão são importantes para os fornecedores da tecnologia. Por meio de uma parceria realizada entre a Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná – PUCPR e a empresa de agricultura de precisão Agres®, foram realizados testes na Fazenda Experimental Gralha Azul, instituição da PUCPR, localizada na Fazenda Rio Grande – PR, região metropolitana de Curitiba. Os valores foram obtidos foram analisados e serviram para a estruturação de uma planilha para demonstração de cenários comparativos, entre operações realizadas com a utilização da tecnologia e sem nenhuma tecnologia embarcada. Nela, é possível visualizar comparativos dos benefícios econômicos da operação, eficiência das operações os quais resultam em maiores margens de lucros e possíveis maiores produções agrícolas. O maior interessado por esses dados e denominadores econômicos é a empresa que cedeu seus equipamentos para os testes, ou seja, a Agres®, que busca promover seus equipamentos com esses dados. Por meio da formulação dessa planilha, a empresa irá transferir todos os dados e itens para uma plataforma online, denominada como “economizômetro”. A plataforma, por meio de programação de web desenvolvedores, irá demonstrar em tempo real os resultados comparativos da não utilização de tecnologia versus utilização de tecnologia, para acesso dos seus clientes.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY BETWEEN SERUM MAGNESIUM AND CALCIUM LEVELS IN PRE ECLAMPSIA VERSUS NORMOTENSIVE PATIENTS
Authors: Deshpande Namrata
Published: April 2024

Preelampsia is one of the most common causes of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. It is a recognised health challenge with devastating feto-maternal consequences. Nutritional deficiencies are commonly found in pregnant women and it is well established that the pregnant women from developing countries usually consume diets that are low in minerals and vitamins. Since the pathogenesis of preeclampsia has not been fully elucidated, the search for predictive markers and preventive strategies remains an unfulfilled issue. The study was conducted in the department of obstetrics and gynecology at Pravara Rural Hospital, Loni, Maharashtra, India to assess serum levels of calcium and magnesium in pregnant females who suffered from pre-eclampsia in comparison with normal pregnant ladies.
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT OF PENILE CONDITIONS - OUR INSTITUTE EXPERIENCE
Authors:   Associate Professor, Institute of Urology, Madras Medical College & Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India., Chengalvarayan G. , Madhavakumaran P. ,   Senior Resident, Institute of Urology, Madras Medical College & Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India., Sivasankar G. ,   Professor & Director, Institute of Urology, Madras Medical College & Rajiv Gandhi Government General Hospital, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
Published: April 2024

Penile emergencies include a wide array of traumatic, vascular, or infectious etiology with uncommon presentations and require prompt medical evaluation. Penile emergencies can be treated conservatively or surgically, and their management often relies on prompt diagnosis. Missing or delaying diagnosis and treatment often results in permanent loss of function or, in some cases, loss of the affected organ itself. This case series aims to review major penile emergencies at our institute with peculiar attention to clinical presentation and practical management in order to provide the specialist with reliable information to keep in mind when confronting these challenging occurrences.
AWARENESS AND KNOWLEDGE TOWARDS COMMON EYE DISEASES OF CITIZENS IN MEDINA CITY, SAUDI ARABIA
Authors:   Saudi Board Certified Ophthalmologist, MOH., A. Aboauf Hana , Abdulaziz Aboauf Hana ,   Saudi Board Certified Ophthalmologist, MOH., Omar Alahmadi Badr ,   Surgical Retina Consultant, PMBH., Hassan ALahmadi Shoroog ,   Family Medicine Resident
Published: April 2024

Objective: The study aimed to assess the extent of knowledge regarding common eye diseases namely cataracts, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, refractive errors, and eye traumas among citizens of Medina City, Saudi Arabia. Subjects and Methods: A total of 288 citizens (â‰¥18 years old) of Medina city were selected and asked to answer online questionnaires regarding their knowledge on common eye diseases. The questionnaire includes demographics, awareness, and source of information of eye diseases. Results: Overall, the 283 participants have obtained a good mean general knowledge on cataract, strabismus, and refractive error, while nearly intermediate mean general knowledge about diabetic retinopathy and glaucoma. Knowledge scores of the participants were found to be highest for cataract (64.25Â±27.6), while lowest for glaucoma (47.76Â±34.3). The common source of information regarding eye disease were their family members and friends (33.3%, n=96). In term of socio-demographic factors, male gender was found to be the common factor that significantly influence the awareness of participants towards cataract, retinopathy, glaucoma, and refractive errors, while presence of eye problem was observed to significantly influence the knowledge of respondents towards retinopathy, glaucoma, and strabismus. Conclusion: This study concludes that proper and extended awareness and knowledge, such as creating health programs and effective health education, towards eye diseases must be imposed to help mitigate the cases of eye health diseases.
Post-COVID syndrome in patients with type 2 diabetes: definition, epidemiology, pathophysiology, biomarkers and genetic associations
Authors: Sukhanov S. A. , Sorokina Yu. A. , Zanozina O. V.
Published: April 2024

The article presents the modern ideas about post-COVID syndrome, indicates various types and classifications of post-COVID syndrome, provides epidemiological data, including the patients with type 2 diabetes, also the definition of post-COVID syndrome is given. The group of patients defined as patients with post-COVID syndrome is very heterogeneous. Post-COVID syndrome is more common in the elderly, with comorbid pathology, severe disease. The pathophysiology of this syndrome in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus is analyzed, and risk factors are indicated. The main biomarkers of disorders were determined: monocytes and their coefficients, acute phase proteins, some biochemical indicators, including analysis of genetic associations with the severity of post-COVID disorders (interferon gamma gene, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene, ACE2 inhibitor). Genotyping of a sample of 26 single nucleotide polymorphisms in genes implicated in viral entry, immune response, and inflammation were significantly associated not only with the risk of long-term COVID-19 symptoms, but also with the cumulative incidence of post-COVID syndrome. Elevated levels of interleukin 6, C-reactive protein and tumor necrosis factor alpha may serve as potential diagnostic biomarkers in long-term COVID biomarkers of blood vascular transformation have great potential for diagnosis, and angiogenesis modulators may have therapeutic efficacy It has been shown that the vast majority of patients, in particular those suffering from type 2 diabetes, develop post-COVID-19 syndrome, and taking into account pre-existing diseases, post-COVID syndrome is not so harmless. By identifying common biomarkers and genetic associations, it is possible to identify the common molecular mechanism of post-COVID syndrome COVID-19 and diabetes mellitus. The novelty of disease association studies in the context of COVID-19 provides new insights into the management of rapidly evolving long-term COVID and post-COVID syndromes that have significant global implications.
Falando em nome do ser humano: lógicas institucionais, dragões e o supra-humano
Authors: Friedland Roger , Arjaliès Diane-Laure
Published: April 2024

Este ensaio aborda as crescentes críticas publicadas ao neoinstitucionalismo, particularmente à abordagem lógica institucional. Ao abordar cada uma das principais críticas formuladas pelos oponentes da teoria – (1) a teoria lógica institucional é tautológica; (2) tudo é institucional; (3) ausência do conceito de poder; (4) e que a teoria lógica institucional não é crítica – o ensaio busca refletir sobre como construir um aparato teórico capaz de se envolver com as atuais crises institucionais do mundo.
Manihaist Dinî Toplulukların Düzenine İlişkin Eski Uygurca Fragmanlar
Authors: Karaayak Tümer , Ölmez Mehmet
Published: April 2024

Orta Asya, yüzyıllar boyunca muazzam boyutlarda kültürel ve dinî çeşitliliğe ev sahipliliği yapmıştır. Bu çeşitlilik bölgede Budizm, Nasturî Hristiyanlık ve Manihaizm gibi dinlerin yan yana yaşamasına olanak sağlamıştır. Bu dinler arasında gelişmiş bir misyonerlik yapısına sahip olması sebebiyle Manihaizm önemli bir yer edinmiştir. Eski Uygurların en önemli yazınsal kaynakları arasında diğer dinî ve dindışı metinler bulunmasına rağmen Manihaizm’e ait metinler önemli bir yer tutmaktadır. Bu metinler muhtevaları bakımından tarihî raporlar, hikâyeler, masallar, efsaneler, vaazlar, emirler ve edebî metinler vb. gibi alt türlere ayrılmaktadır. Bu çalışmada Berlin Turfan Koleksiyonu’nda korunan ve şimdiye kadar neşredilmemiş Manihaist dinî toplulukların düzenini konu alan beş fragman neşredilecektir. Bu yazının girişinde Manihaist metinler üzerine yapılan çalışmalara değinilecek, daha sonra çalışmaya dâhil edilen fragmanların yazı çevirimlerine ve harf çevirilerine yer verilecektir. Bunu, metnin Türkiye Türkçesine aktarımı, açıklamaları ve sözlüğü takip edecektir.
Additive Effect of Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging to Prenatal Ultrasonography in Fetal Congenital Anomalies
Authors: Kirtis Emine , Alkan Bulbul Gul , Kandemir Hulya , Sanhal Cem Yasar , Karaali Kamil , Mendilcioglu Ibrahim Inanc
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES: In this study, we aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of prenatal Ultrasonography (USG) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in fetal congenital anomalies.
STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 148 patients who had previously undergone prenatal MRI between January 2013 and May 2023. A total of 185 anomalies in 148 fetuses were evaluated using USG and MRI. The prenatal diagnoses were compared with definitive diagnoses and were classified as diagnosed, partially correct, questionable, or undiagnosed. In addition, USG and MRI findings were compared in terms of their consistency and consolidation.
RESULTS: The postnatal evaluation revealed a total of 185 anomalies in 148 fetuses. USG diagnosed 94% of these anomalies, while MRI diagnosed 95.1% of them. Both USG and fetal MRI were able to diagnose 91.9% (n=170) of anomalies during the prenatal period. Fetal MRI provided an additional contribution to USG in the diagnosis of six anomalies (3.24%).
CONCLUSION: In fetuses undergoing detailed ultrasonography and specialized neurosonography by experienced professionals, additional fetal anomalies exclusively detected through MRI are now found to be lower than previously documented. However, fetal MRI is presently employed to offer supplementary information, and advice, and assist in clinical decision-making. In the future, extensive prospective studies with standardized protocols for ultrasound imaging of the fetal brain are necessary to better understand the true role of fetal MRI in cases where fetal neurosonography has already been performed.
CORRELATION BETWEEN VARIOUS ANTHROPOMETRIC AND MUSCULOSKELETAL MEASUREMENTS AND HEMORRHOIDS IN PREGNANCY
Authors: Çinar Gamze Nalan , Akbayrak Türkan , Nakip Gülbala , Özgül Serap , Üzelpasacı Esra , Baran Emine , Gürşen Ceren , Beksac Kemal , Aydın Emine , Orgul Gokcen , Beksaç Mehmet Sinan
Published: April 2024

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the presence of hemorrhoids in pregnancy and symptoms related to hemorrhoids and to evaluate the relationship between hemorrhoids in pregnancy and various anthropometric and musculoskeletal parameters.
Methods: The retrospective cross-sectional study included pregnant women in 3 different trimesters (1st, 11-15 weeks; 2nd, 16-23 weeks; 3rd, 24-40 weeks) without any anorectal problems before pregnancy. The presence of hemorrhoids and other anorectal symptoms during pregnancy was evaluated with yes/no questions on self-reported scales.
Results: Evaluation was made of 268 pregnant women (92, 1st Trimester; 107, 2nd Trimester; 69, 3rd trimester). In the whole study sample, waist circumference measurement (p = 0.042; OR = 1.13; 95% CI 1.07–1.92), bi-iliac width (p = 0.036; OR = 1.17; 95% CI 1.09–1.38), rectus abdominis muscle strength (p = 0.006; OR = 0.45; 95% CI 0.04–0.58), Diastasis-recti-abdominis grade measured from umbilicus level (p = 0.023; OR = 1.38; 95% CI 1.14–1.83), hypermobility score (p = 0.006; OR = 3.34; 95% CI 1.98–7.94) and parity (p = 0.032; OR = 2.47; 95% CI 1.85–7.19) were found to be important risk factors for the presence of hemorrhoids in pregnancy.
Conclusion: This is the first study to have evaluated hemorrhoids and hemorrhoid-related symptoms and to examine the associated risk factors comprehensively. It was also demonstrated for the first time that waist circumference measurement, bi-iliac width, increased grade of Diastasis-recti-abdominis measured at umbilicus level, hypermobility score, and decreased rectus abdominis muscle strength were risk factors for hemorrhoids in pregnancy.
Commercial reverse osmosis point-of-use systems in Egypt failed to purify tap water
Authors: Gad Mahmoud , Marouf Mohamed A. , Abogabal Amr , Hu Anyi , Nabet Noura
Published: April 2024

This study addresses the heightened global reliance on point-of-use (PoU) systems driven by water quality concerns, ageing infrastructure, and urbanization. While widely used in Egypt, there is a lack of comprehensive evaluation of these systems. We assessed 10 reverse osmosis point-of-use systems, examining physicochemical, bacteriological, and protozoological aspects of tap water (inlets) and filtered water (outlets), adhering to standard methods for the examination of water and wastewater. Results showed significant reductions in total dissolved solids across most systems, with a decrease from 210 ± 23.6 mg/L in tap water to 21 ± 2.8 mg/L in filtered water for PoU-10. Ammonia nitrogen levels in tap water decreased from 0.05 ± 0.04 to 2.28 ± 1.47 mg/L to 0.02 ± 0.04 to 0.69 ± 0.64 mg/L in filtered water. Despite this, bacterial indicators showed no significant changes, with some systems even increasing coliform levels. Protozoological analysis identified prevalent Acanthamoeba (42.5%), less frequent Naegleria (2.5%), Vermamoeba vermiformis (5%), and potentially pathogenic Acanthamoeba genotypes. Elevated bacterial indicators in filtered water of point-of-use systems, combined with essential mineral removal, indicate non-compliance with water quality standards, posing a public health concern. Further research on the long-term health implications of these filtration systems is essential.
Evaluation of water quality and trophic status in relation to seasonal water mixing in a highland Lake Ardibo, Ethiopia
Authors: Mohammed Adem , Mengistou Seyoum , Fetahi Tadesse
Published: April 2024

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the spatio-temporal variability of various physical and chemical parameters of water quality and to determine the trophic state of Lake Ardibo. Water samples were collected from October 2020 to September 2021 at three sampling stations in four different seasons. A total of 14 physico-chemical parameters, such as water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), electrical conductivity, turbidity, alkalinity, Secchi-depth, nitrate, ammonia, silicon dioxide, soluble reactive phosphorus, total phosphorus, chloride, and fluoride were measured using standard methods. The results demonstrated that temporal variation existed throughout the study period. Except for turbidity, the water quality of the lake varied significantly within the four seasons (ANOVA, p < 0.05). DO levels decreased significantly during the dry season following water mixing events. Chlorophyll-a measurements showed significant seasonal differences ranging from 0.58 μg L−1 in the main-rainy season to 8.44 μg L−1 in the post-rainy period, indicating moderate algal biomass production. The overall category of Lake Ardibo was found to be under a mesotrophic state with medium biological productivity. A holistic lake basin approach management is suggested to maintain water quality and ecological processes and to improve the lake ecosystem services.
Metal-phenolic network as precursor complex coating for forward osmosis membrane with enhanced antifouling property
Authors: Sun Yan , Xie Xiaoyang , Ma Xiangdong , Feng Qianying , Xu Changhao , Shen Jiaqi , Gu Yuxin , Zhao Chuanliang , He JiaoJie
Published: April 2024

In this study, a multi-functional layer was developed based on the commercially available cellulose triacetate (CTA) forward osmosis (FO) membrane to improve its antifouling property. Tannic acid/ferric ion (TA/Fe3+) complexes were firstly coated as a precursor layer on the membrane surface via self-assembly. Afterwards, the tannic acid/diethylenetriamine (TA/DETA) hydrophilic functional layer was further coated, following Ag/polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) anti-bacterial layer was formed in situ through the reducibility of TA to obtain TA/Fe3+-TA/DETA-Ag/PVP-modified membrane. The optimized precursor layer was acquired by adjusting the buffer solution pH to 8, TA/Fe3+ ratio to 4 and the number of self-assembled layers to 5. The permeability testing results illustrated that the functional layer had an insignificant effect on the membrane transport parameters. The TA/Fe3+-TA/DETA-Ag/PVP-modified membrane simultaneously exhibited excellent physical and chemical stability. The coated membrane also demonstrated enhanced anti-bacterial properties, achieving 98.63 and 97.30% inhibition against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli, respectively. Furthermore, the dynamic fouling experiment showed a 12% higher water flux decrease for the TA/Fe3+-TA/DETA-Ag/PVP CTA membrane compared to the nascent CTA membrane, which proved its excellent antifouling performance. This work provides a feasible strategy to heighten the antifouling property of the CTA FO membrane.
Essential Oils’ Biosynthesis and their Application
Authors: Negi Sandeep , Srivastav Ajeet Kumar , Bala Lakshmi
Published: April 2024

Essential oils are natural plant products that have a wide range of
applications in various fields like medicine, flavors, fragrance, etc. Their wide range of
uses benefits people by exhibiting a variety of diverse properties like anti-allergic, antiinflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, insect repellent, anticancer, anti-oxidant, and
many more. They are also crucial to plants in terms of function. They are aromatic and
are present in plants inside specialized cells or glands. Their biosynthesis occurs in the
leaves and is present inside them until flowering. After the flowering of the plant, these
oils get transferred to the flowers. These essential oils can be extracted using a variety
of techniques, including solvent applications, steam distillation, and more. The quality
and amount of essential oils in plants are affected by a variety of circumstances. These
factors include the development stage of plants, the effect of UV radiation, the effect of
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, the effect of light quality, the effect of salt stress, and
the effect of fertilizers.
Human Organs System and Essential Oils (EOs)
Authors: Negi Sandeep , Srivastav Ajeet Kumar , Bala Lakshmi
Published: April 2024

Some patients prefer complementary and alternative medicine treatments
because they are under the impression that these methods are safer than conventional
medication because of their “natural” origins. EOs can be used in a bath, during a
massage, as a spray, a paste, a gel, or via inhalation. People think that these oils get into
the skin through the upper dermis. There are different ideas about how aromatherapy
could help people. The components of EOs are essential for the treatment and
prevention of cancer; the processes responsible for EOs' antimutagenic capabilities are
numerous. These EOs boost immunity, improve blood circulation, protect from
respiratory and skin diseases, and improve digestion. These are also helpful in relieving
pain in joints and muscular regions. Their importance in boosting brain functioning
helps in the treatment of various neurological problems. They have a significant impact
on resolving human reproductive issues. They play a significant role in modern
medicine and are increasingly used to treat a wide range of illnesses. Their value as a
natural remedy of last resort is universally acknowledged. Their increasing application
to the treatment of human health issues has paved the path for natural aromatherapy to
find widespread acceptance among the general public.
Therapeutic Applications and Pharmacological Practices of Essential Oils
Authors: Misra Pragati , John Suchit Ashish , Marker Shailesh , Agnihotry Shikha , Srivastav Ajeet Kumar , Sagar Alka , Shukla Pradeep Kumar
Published: April 2024

When referring to a drug's active component as “Quinta essential,”
Paracelsus von Hohenheim, a Swiss physician used the word “essential oil” for the
very first time in the sixteenth century. Plant oils and extracts have been utilised for a
variety of purposes for thousands of years. Essential oils have long been used in
traditional medicine and by practitioners of alternative rejuvenation approaches.
Because of their considerable immunomodulatory and antibacterial action, they have
been used for many years to treat various ailments. Many volatile chemicals generated
by plant secondary metabolism combine to make essential oils. Components of
essential oil may be classified into two related types on a biosynthetic level. The two
primary groups are terpene or terpenoid inchoation compounds, as well as aromatic and
aliphatic components. Since the Middle Ages, essential oils have been utilized for
antibacterial, biocidal, anti-fungal, antiprotozoal, and antifeedant purposes, as well as
painkiller, calming, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, and locally anesthetic therapy.

However, little is understood about how essential oils function. Plant oils and extracts'
antimicrobial characteristics have served as the foundation for a variety of enterprises,
including pharmaceuticals, alternative medicine, and herbal treatments.
Genome Editing of Plant Growth-Promoting Microbes (PGPM) Towards Developing Smart Bio-Formulations for Sustainable Agriculture: Current Trends and Perspectives
Authors: Thankappan Sugitha , Binodh Asish K. , Kumar P. Ramesh , Kurien Sajan , Narayanasamy Shobana , Prabina Jeberlin. B. , Uthandi Sivakumar
Published: April 2024

Plant-associated microbes, referred to as plant microbiomes, are an integral
part of the plant system. The multifaceted role of plant microbiota in combating both
abiotic and biotic stresses is well documented in different crop species. However,
understanding the co-evolution of plant growth- promoting microbes (PGPM) and PGP
traits at genetic and molecular levels requires robust molecular tools to unravel the
functional gene orthologues involved in plant-microbe interaction. The advent of
Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)/Cas9 (CRISPRassociated protein 9) is of paramount importance in deciphering the plant-microbe
interaction and addressing the challenges of unraveling endophytic microbes and their
benefits thereof. Our knowledge of plant microbiome composition, signaling cues,
secondary metabolites, microbial volatiles, and other driving factors in plant
microbiome has been enlightened. In recent years, scientists have focused more on
below-ground dialogue in recruiting efficient microbiome/engineered rhizosphere.
More recently, base editing techniques using endo-nucleolytic ally deactivated dCas9
protein and sgRNAs (CRISPR interference or CRISPRi) have emerged as a useful
approach to study the gene functions and have potential merits in exploring plantmicrobe interactions and the signaling cues involved. A systemic understanding of the
signaling events and the respective metabolic pathways will enable the application of genome editing tools to enhance the capacity of microbes to produce more targeted
metabolites that will enhance microbial colonization.
Further, it will be exciting to employ CRISPR technologies for editing plant-microbe
interactions to discover novel metabolic pathways and their modulation for plant
immunity and fitness against abiotic as well as biotic stresses. Such metabolites possess
tremendous scope in tailoring newer smart nano-based bio-formulations, besides
formulating beneficial microbiomes or cocktails, which is the best alternative for
climate resilient farming. The present review sheds light upon the deployment of
CRISPR/Cas techniques to comprehend plant-microbe interactions, microbe-mediated
abiotic and biotic stress resistance, genes edited for the development of fungal,
bacterial, and viral disease resistance, nodulation process, PGP activity, CRISPR
interference-based gene repression in the PGPM, metabolic pathway editing and their
future implications in sustainable agriculture.