bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TIMP1 protects against blood-brain barrier disruption after subarachnoid haemorrhage by inhibiting ubiquitination of astrocytic β1-integrin
Authors: Tang Tianchi , Chen Huaijun , Hu Libin , Ye Jingya , Jing Chaohui , Xu Chaoran , Wu Xinyan , Chen Yike , Chen Zihang , Zhou Hang , Fan Linfeng , Fu Xiongjie , Qian Cong , Chen Jingsen , Tan Zhongju , Liu Jing , Zeng Hanhai , Chen Gao , Liu Fuyi
Published: March 2024

Background

Astrocytes regulate blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, whereas subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH) results in astrocyte dysregulation and BBB disruption. Here, we explored the involvement of tissue inhibitor of matrix metalloprotease-1 (TIMP1) in astrocyte-mediated BBB protection during SAH, along with its underlying mechanisms.

Methods

C57BL/6J mice were used to establish a model of SAH. The effects of TIMP1 on SAH outcomes were analysed by intraperitoneal injection of recombinant mouse TIMP1 protein (rm-TIMP1; 250 µg/kg). The roles of TIMP1 and its effector β1-integrin on astrocytes were observed by in vivo transduction with astrocyte-targeted adeno-associated virus carrying TIMP1 overexpression plasmid or β1-integrin RNAi. The molecular mechanisms underlying TIMP1 and β1-integrin interactions were explored in primary cultured astrocytes stimulated with red blood cells (RBCs).

Results

TIMP1 was upregulated after SAH. Administration of rm-TIMP1 mitigated SAH-induced early brain injury (EBI) in male and female mice. TIMP1 was primarily expressed in astrocytes; its overexpression in astrocytes led to increased β1-integrin expression in astrocytes, along with the preservation of astrocytic endfoot attachment to the endothelium and subsequent recovery of endothelial tight junctions. All of these effects were reversed by the knockdown of β1-integrin in astrocytes. Molecular analysis showed that TIMP1 overexpression decreased the RBC-induced ubiquitination of β1-integrin; this effect was partially achieved by inhibiting the interaction between β1-integrin and the E3 ubiquitin ligase Trim21.

Conclusion

TIMP1 inhibits the interaction between β1-integrin and Trim21 in astrocytes, thereby rescuing the ubiquitination of astrocytic β1-integrin. It subsequently restores interactions between astrocytic endfeet and the endothelium, as well as BBB integrity, eventually mitigating SAH-induced EBI.
An assessment of survey techniques using unmanned aerial vehicles to monitor Nile crocodiles (Crocodylus niloticus)
Authors: Jewitt Debbie , Van Der Westhuisen Rickert , Armstrong Adrian J.
Published: March 2024

Monitored populations of the Nile crocodile Crocodylus niloticus at the southern end of its distribution, in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa, are largely in decline. Trophy hunting of wild Nile crocodiles is only permitted at Pongolapoort Dam in the province, and monitoring of this population is required to enable the setting of annual hunting quotas. The aims of this study were to determine the feasibility of using drones to count and measure Nile crocodiles in the inlet to the dam and evaluate the utility of photomosaics, individual photographs, and videos for this purpose. A total of 16.5 km of shoreline was surveyed and 183 sub-adult and adult crocodiles observed, averaging 10.74 crocodiles per kilometer. The use of drones was cost-effective compared to traditional survey methods even though a higher number of person hours were required for data collection and processing. We recommend that drones be used to acquire video footage, supplemented by photomosaics in areas where large aggregations of crocodiles occur, to regularly monitor this crocodile population.
Aspects of non-relativistic quantum field theories
Authors: Baiguera Stefano
Published: March 2024

Non-relativistic quantum field theory is a framework that describes systems where the velocities are much smaller than the speed of light. A large class of those obey Schrödinger invariance, which is the equivalent of the conformal symmetry in the relativistic world. In this review, we pedagogically introduce the main theoretical tools used to study non-relativistic physics: null reduction and$$c \rightarrow \infty $$c→∞limits, wherecis the speed of light. We present a historical overview of non-relativistic wave equations, Jackiw–Pi vortices, the Aharonov–Bohm scattering, and the trace anomaly for a Schrödinger scalar. We then review modern developments, including fermions at unitarity, the quantum Hall effect, off-shell actions, and a systematic classification of the trace anomaly. The last part of this review is dedicated to current research topics. We define non-relativistic supersymmetry and a corresponding superspace to covariantly deal with quantum corrections. Finally, we define the Spin Matrix Theory limit of the AdS/CFT correspondence, which is a non-relativistic sector of the duality obtained via a decoupling limit, where a precise matching of the two sides can be achieved.
TRANSMISSION DYNAMICS OF COVID-19 WITH DIABETES IN INDIA: A COST-EFFECTIVE AND OPTIMAL CONTROL ANALYSIS
Authors: TRIPATHI JAI PRAKASH , KUMAWAT NITESH , TANWAR KOMAL , PALLA DHANUMJAYA , MARTCHEVA MAIA
Published: March 2024

In this study, we develop a mathematical model to examine the dynamics of COVID-19 with diabetes. Recognizing the increased vulnerability of diabetic patients, we proposed separate isolation classes for COVID-19 cases with and without diabetes. The model is parameterized using real data from India for the period March 2021 to September 2021. Sensitivity analysis for the basic reproduction number shows that isolation (for COVID-19 with diabetes) plays a significant role in lessening COVID-19 cases. Through numerical evaluations, we demonstrate that timely and focused care, including hospitalization/isolation, and treatment for COVID-19 patients with diabetes, can substantially reduce the disease burden by nearly three-fold. The optimal control problem with different strategies has also been discussed. We obtain that vaccination (with the least Average Cost-Effectiveness Ratio (ACER) and a combined strategy (with the highest Infection-Averted Ratio (IAR) are the most cost-saving and effective interventions to eradicate the disease.
-generAItor: Tree-in-the-loop Text Generation for Language Model Explainability and Adaptation
Authors: Spinner Thilo , Kehlbeck Rebecca , Sevastjanova Rita , Stähle Tobias , Keim Daniel A. , Deussen Oliver , El-Assady Mennatallah
Published: March 2024

Large language models (LLMs) are widely deployed in various downstream tasks, e.g., auto-completion, aided writing, or chat-based text generation. However, the considered output candidates of the underlying search algorithm are under-explored and under-explained. We tackle this shortcoming by proposing a
tree-in-the-loop
approach, where a visual representation of the beam search tree is the central component for analyzing, explaining, and adapting the generated outputs. To support these tasks, we present generAItor, a visual analytics technique, augmenting the central beam search tree with various task-specific widgets, providing targeted visualizations and interaction possibilities. Our approach allows interactions on multiple levels and offers an iterative pipeline that encompasses generating, exploring, and comparing output candidates, as well as fine-tuning the model based on adapted data. Our case study shows that our tool generates new insights in gender bias analysis beyond state-of-the-art template-based methods. Additionally, we demonstrate the applicability of our approach in a qualitative user study. Finally, we quantitatively evaluate the adaptability of the model to few samples, as occurring in text-generation use cases.
Development of a physical activity prescription course in a Doctor of Pharmacy program
Authors: Susan A. Marsh
Published: March 2024

This study describes a new elective course in physical activity prescription for Doctor of Pharmacy students. After completing the course, students reported improved self-perceptions for the provision of physical activity recommendations. This course fills a gap in pharmacy education and this study provides future directions to improve training in lifestyle modifications.
The effect of cardiorespiratory fitness and habitual physical activity on cardiovascular responses to 2 h of uninterrupted sitting
Authors: Paterson Craig , Stone Keeron , Turner Louise , Moinuddin Arsalan , Stoner Lee , Fryer Simon
Published: March 2024

We demonstrate that neither cardiorespiratory fitness nor habitual physical activity influence central and peripheral cardiovascular responses to a 2-h bout of uninterrupted sitting in healthy young adults.
Association between dietary phosphate intake and skeletal muscle energetics in adults without cardiovascular disease
Authors: Giacona John M. , Afridi Areeb , Bezan Petric Ursa , Johnson Talon , Pastor Johanne , Ren Jimin , Sandon Lona , Malloy Craig , Pandey Ambarish , Shah Amil , Berry Jarett D. , Moe Orson W. , Vongpatanasin Wanpen
Published: March 2024

This is the first translational research study directly demonstrating the adverse effects of dietary phosphate on muscle energy metabolism in humans. Importantly, our data show that dietary phosphate is associated with impaired muscle ATP synthesis at rest and during exercise, independent of age and renal function. This is a new biologic paradigm with significant clinical dietary implications.
Construction Method and Process Optimization of Prestress Reverse Tensioning for Large‐Span Bidirectional Suspension Steel Roof Structures
Authors: Yao Wang , Hao Zhang , Feng Zhang , Yang Li , Dong Li , Min Bao
Published: March 2024

For medium and small‐scale steel structure stadiums, in order to minimize the impact of the construction process on the structural state, a prestressing construction process tailored to medium and small stadiums is proposed, taking full advantage of the inherent elastic deformation range of steel structures. The main steps of the process involve the construction of the main truss first. After the main truss construction is completed, it is lowered to a certain position within its elastic range using cables. The roof grid is then connected to the main truss. Once all connections are completed, the cable tension is gradually released. After the cable tension is released, the main truss exhibits a certain degree of rebound. During the rebound process, the roof grid forms a prestressed structure, ensuring stability and integrity between the main truss and the roof. Through numerical simulation, process analysis is conducted on this construction process, and the optimal construction scheme is proposed.
Propagation Characteristics and Magnetic Field Distribution of Rotating Magnet-Based Mechanical Antenna in the Air-Seawater-Seabed Three-Layer Medium
Authors: Chen S. P. , Zhou Q. , Zhang J. Y. , Wang S. Y.
Published: March 2024

Aiming at the application requirements of underwater cross-domain communication, based on the equivalent relationship between the rotating permanent magnet and the orthogonal time-varying current loop, this paper establishes an air-seawater-seabed three-layer medium model and analyzes the magnetic field distribution and propagation characteristics of the rotating permanent magnet-based mechanical antenna (RMBMA). Based on the electromagnetic field simulation software FEKO, the influence of vertical rotation and horizontal rotation of RMBMA on the radiation magnetic field is analyzed. The magnetic field distribution and magnetic field attenuation characteristics of RMBMA at different depths are obtained by simulation. The influence of RMBMA operating frequency and magnetic moment on the propagation characteristics is studied. The research shows that the horizontal rotation of the magnetic source is better than the vertical rotation in the long-distance underwater communication. When the magnetic source and the receiving point are close to the interface of the medium, the magnetic field strength and the propagation distance can be relatively increased. With appropriate frequency and magnetic moment, the magnetic field strength and communication distance can be further increased.
Exogenous Fatty Acids Remodel the Muscle Fatty Acids Composition of the GIFT Tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Liang Zhenye , Jiang Zongzheng , Wu Sen , Zhai Yujia , You Shuqi , Xu Chang
Published: March 2024

To reduce the negative impact of fish oil substitutes on the fatty acid composition of farmed fish, this experiment utilized different types of oils as dietary lipid sources for GIFT tilapia. Tilapia oil (FO) was used as the control, along with corn oil (CO), linseed oil (LO), algae oil (AO), and a mixture of linseed oil and algae oil in various ratios of 1 : 2, 1 : 1, and 2 : 1 (LA12, LA11, and LA21) to reshape the fatty acid profile of GIFT tilapia (0.205 ± 0.005 g) in the muscle. The weight gain and specific growth rate of tilapia in the LO and control groups were significantly higher than in other treatments (P < 0.05). Meanwhile, despite the AO group exhibited the highest docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) content (P < 0.05), it also exhibited the highest levels of malondialdehyde content and superoxide dismutase activity (P < 0.05). The mRNA expression levels of Δ6/Δ5 fatty acyl desaturase 2 (Δ6/Δ5FADs2), Δ4 fatty acyl desaturase 2 (Δ4FADs2), acetyl‐CoA carboxylase α (ACCα), and elongase of very long chain fatty acids 5 (ELOVL5) in the hepatopancreas of LO group were exhibited a significant upregulation compared to the control (P < 0.05). The synthesis of DHA and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) in the muscles of LA12, LA11, and LA21 groups increased as the proportion of DHA decreased in the diets. In conclusion, the edible value of fatty acids of tilapia muscle, especially n‐3 long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, can be significantly improved by adjusting the oil source in the diet through lipid metabolism.
Semisupervised Learning‐Based Word‐Sense Disambiguation Using Word Embedding for Afaan Oromoo Language
Authors: Geleta Tabor Wegi , Haro Jara Muda
Published: March 2024

Natural language is a type of language that human beings use to communicate with each other. However, it is very difficult to communicate with a machine‐understandable language. Finding context meaning is challenging the activity of automatically identifying machine translation, indexing engines, and predicting neighbor words in natural language. Many researchers around the world investigated word‐sense disambiguation in different languages, including the Afaan Oromo language, to solve this challenge. Nevertheless, the amount of effort for Afaan Oromo is very little in terms of finding context meaning and predicting neighbor words to solve the word ambiguity problem. Since the Afaan Oromo language is one of the languages developed in Ethiopia, it needs the latest technology to enhance communication and overcome ambiguity challenges. So far, this work aims to design and develop a vector space model for the Afaan Oromo language that can provide the application of word‐sense disambiguation to increase the performance of information retrieval. In this work, the study has used the Afaan Oromo word embedding method to disambiguate a contextual meaning of words by applying the semisupervised technique. To conduct the study, 456,300 Afaan Oromo words were taken from different sources and preprocessed for experimentation by the Natural Language Toolkit and Anaconda tool. The K‐means machine learning algorithm was used to cluster similar word vocabulary. Experimental results show that using word embedding for the proposed language’s corpus improves the performance of the system by a total accuracy of 98.89% and outperforms the existing similar systems.
Pd@CoFe Alloys on N‐Doped Carbon Derived from Charred Tissue Paper as Synergistic Bifunctional Oxygen Electrocatalysts
Authors: Bhuvanendran Narayanamoorthy , Selva Kumar R. , Lee Sae Youn
Published: March 2024

Integrating more active components into a catalyst material could facilitate the development of multifunctional electrocatalysts for energy conversion and storage applications. In this study, we developed a multifunctional electrocatalyst, namely, Pd alloyed with Co‐Fe deposited on N‐doped mesoporous carbon derived from tissue paper (Pd@Co‐Fe/N‐TDC). The synergism in Pd@Co‐Fe/N‐TDC, stemming from the interatomic alloy between Pd and Co‐Fe, N‐doped mesoporous carbon with defective surfaces, distribution of polyhedral Pd nanoparticles, and strong metal‐support interfacial interaction, resulted in significantly high electrocatalytic performance for both oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Pd@Co‐Fe/N‐TDC was found to be an efficient bifunctional oxygen electrocatalyst, and this was evidenced by a high onset potential (1.01 V) and kinetic current density (2.6 mA/cm2) for the ORR and by a low overpotential (296 mV) and a low Tafel slope value (38 mV/dec) for the OER, along with a small ΔE of 736 mV. The catalyst also exhibited high durability for both ORR and OER, even after 10000 and 5000 cycles, respectively. Theoretical assessment provides an insight into the synergism of active metal sites in Pd@Co‐Fe/N‐TDC, which showed its potential for use as a non‐Pt electrocatalyst for energy applications.
Transjugular Liver Biopsy: The Key to a Rare Etiology of Cholestatic Hepatitis after Bone Marrow Transplantation
Authors: Pestana Inês , Pedro Juliana , Simões Carolina , Ferreira Carlos Noronha , da Mata Sara , Claro Isabel
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) is associated with multiple complications, such as sinusoidal obstruction syndrome (SOS) (hepatomegaly, ascites, jaundice, and thrombocytopenia) and graft-versus-host disease (GVHD) (with the skin, gastrointestinal tract, and liver being the main targets). These entities may present overlapping clinical findings, being considered differential diagnoses, but their coexistence is rare. Case Presentation: A 29-year-old male with acute myeloid leukemia underwent HSCT. On day (D)+20, he developed hyperbilirubinemia, pleural effusion, ascites, and painful hepatomegaly. Abdominal ultrasound was suggestive of SOS, and defibrotide was initiated. On D+44, acute cutaneous, intestinal, and hepatic GVHD developed which improved after treatment with methylprednisolone. On D+132, there was worsening cholestasis and abdominal pain. MRCP revealed strictures in several segments of the intrahepatic bile ducts and irregularity of the main bile duct. Due to aggravation of liver enzyme changes and clinical worsening, he was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit. Due to persistence of severe hyperbilirubinemia (30 mg/dL) and thrombocytopenia (30,000 cell/uL), he underwent a hepatic hemodynamic study which revealed a hepatic venous pressure gradient of 10 mm Hg. The transjugular liver biopsy revealed canalicular hepatic cholestasis, bile duct injury, and focal hepatocellular necrosis suggestive of GVHD as well as injury to centrilobular veins and centrilobular necrosis compatible with possible SOS. Mycophenolate mofetil was started, but on D+195, the patient died of septic shock. Discussion/Conclusion: This case is notable for its complexity and for demonstrating the rare coexistence of histological features of SOS and GVHD. Although the clinical and laboratory findings may be sufficient for the diagnosis, it is important to highlight the importance of liver hemodynamic study and transjugular liver biopsy in these patients who often have severe thrombocytopenia, for the characterization and histological confirmation of cholestatic hepatitis, especially when the etiology may be multifactorial.
Mortality of Peritoneal Dialysis versus Hemodialysis in Older Adults: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Cheng Linan , Hu Nan , Song Di , Chen Yuqing
Published: March 2024

Introduction: The optimal choice of dialysis modality remains contentious in older adults threatened by advanced age and high risk of comorbidities. Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort and case-control studies to assess mortality risk between peritoneal dialysis (PD) and hemodialysis (HD) in older adults using PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library database from inception to June 1, 2022. The outcome of interest is all-cause mortality. Results: Thirty-one eligible studies with >774,000 older patients were included. Pooled analysis showed that PD had a higher mortality rate than HD in older dialysis population (HR 1.17, 95% CI: 1.10–1.25). When stratified by co-variables, our study showed an increased mortality risk of PD versus HD in older patients with diabetes mellitus or comorbidity who underwent longer dialysis duration (more than 3 years) or who started dialysis before 2010. However, definitive conclusions were constrained by significant heterogeneity. Conclusion: From the survival point of view, caution is needed to employ PD for long-term use in older populations with diabetes mellitus or comorbid conditions. However, a tailored treatment choice needs to take account of what matters to older adults at an individual level, especially in the context of limited survival improvements and loss of quality of life. Further research is still awaited to conclude this topic.
Tailored Approach Needs Personalized Characterization for Shaping Dietary Behaviors
Authors: Carrillo-Alvarez Elena
Published: March 2024

To analyze compliance with dietary recommendations (DR) based on the Mediterranean Diet among natives and immigrants in Spain. A cross-sectional study was carried out using the Platform of Longitudinal Studies of Immigrant Families comparing immigrant workers from Colombia, Ecuador and Morocco with Spanish workers. Adjusted odds ratios (ORa) of sufficient compliance with DR were obtained by sociodemographic variables. We also obtained the adjusted difference in means (DMa) for foods for which there was compliance with DR. Moroccans had greater compliance for meat (ORa = 7.22), eggs (ORa = 5.03) and cured-meats (ORa = 89.78). Ecuadorians for sweets (ORa = 4.03) and Spaniards for natural-juices and dairy-products. Moroccans had the greatest compliance in terms of the number of foods (DMa = 1.53), while Colombians had the least (DMa = − 0.95). Men (DMa = − 0.98), those with primary or incomplete primary education (DMa = − 0.83) and single-parent families (DMa = − 0.58) showed lower compliance. Compliance with DR was low among both Spaniards and immigrants, despite differences in levels of compliance, especially between Moroccans and Colombians.
Prioritization and Resource Allocation in the Context of the COVID-19 Pandemic: Recommendations for Colorectal and Pancreatic Cancer in Germany
Authors: Lugnier Celine , Sommerlatte Sabine , Attenberger Ulrike , Beer Ambros J. , Bentz Martin , Benz Stefan R. , Birkner Thomas , Büntzel Jens , Ebert Matthias P.A. , Fasching Peter , Fischbach Wolfgang , Fokas Emmanouil , Fricke Birgit , Hense Helene , Grohmann Erich , Hofheinz Ralf-Dieter , Hüppe Dietrich , Huster Stefan , Jahn Patrick , Klinkhammer-Schalke Monika , Knauf Wolfgang , Kraeft Anna-Lena , Maier Bernd Oliver , Marckmann Georg , Niegisch Günter , Otto Lutz , Pelzer Uwe , Piso Pompiliu , Rosenau Henning , Schmitt Jochen , Schoffer Olaf , Sehouli Jalid , Tannapfel Andrea , Wedding Ulrich , Wesselmann Simone , Winkler Eva C. , Zimmermann Tanja , Wörmann Bernhard , Reinacher-Schick Anke , Schildmann Jan
Published: March 2024

In the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a scarcity of resources with various effects on the care of cancer patients. This paper provides an English summary of a German guideline on prioritization and resource allocation for colorectal and pancreatic cancer in the context of the pandemic. Based on a selective literature review as well as empirical and ethical analyses, the research team of the CancerCOVID Consortium drafted recommendations for prioritizing diagnostic and treatment measures for both entities. The final version of the guideline received consent from the executive boards of nine societies of the Association of Scientific Medical Societies in Germany (AWMF), 20 further professional organizations and 22 other experts from various disciplines as well as patient representatives. The guiding principle for the prioritization of decisions is the minimization of harm. Prioritization decisions to fulfill this overall goal should be guided by (1) the urgency relevant to avoid or reduce harm, (2) the likelihood of success of the diagnostic or therapeutic measure advised, and (3) the availability of alternative treatment options. In the event of a relevant risk of harm as a result of prioritization, these decisions should be made by means of a team approach. Gender, age, disability, ethnicity, origin, and other social characteristics, such as social or insurance status, as well as the vehemence of a patient’s treatment request and SARS-CoV-2 vaccination status should not be used as prioritization criteria. The guideline provides concrete recommendations for (1) diagnostic procedures, (2) surgical procedures for cancer, and (3) systemic treatment and radiotherapy in patients with colorectal or pancreatic cancer within the context of the German healthcare system.
Comparison of Changes in Retinal Vascular Parameters and density in patients with Moyamoya disease: A retrospective Study
Authors: Wang Xijuan , Meng Ying , Song Dan , Tan Cunxin , Wang Guanzheng , Lv Bin , Ni Yuan , Xie Guotong , Cui Ting , Zhang Yan , Niu Yaqian , Zhang Chengxia , Liu Guangfeng
Published: March 2024

Objective: This study aims to compare retinal vascular parameters and density in patients with Moyamoya disease using the optical coherence tomography angiography.
Patients and Methods: This clinical trial totally enrolls 78 eyes from 39 participants, and all these patients with Moyamoya disease (N=13) are set as experimental group and participants with health who matched with age and gender are considered as the control group (N=26). Then all these participants receive Optical coherence tomography angiography detection. Participants’ general data are collected and analyzed. Skeleton density (SD) value, Vessel density (VD) value, Fractal dimension (FD) value, Vessel diameter index (VDI) value, Foveal Avascular Zone (FAZ) value are analyzed.
Results: The total of 39 participants are included in this study. The SD value in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in control group [0.175 (0.166, 0.181) vs. 0.184 (0.175, 0.188), p=0.017]. Similarly, the VD value in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group [0.333 (0.320, 0.350) vs. 0.354 (0.337, 0.364), p=0.024]. Additionally, the FD value in the experimental group was significantly lower than that in the control group [2.088 (2.083, 2.094) vs. 2.096 (2.090, 2.101), p=0.022]. As for the VDI and FAZ, VDI and FAZ values in the experimental group were lower than those in the control group, there was no significant difference in VDI and FAZ values between the two groups.
Conclusions: Our study, using non-invasive and rapid OCTA imaging, confirmed decreased retinal vascular parameters and density in patients with moyamoya disease.
Social Media Misinformation about Pregnancy and COVID-19 Vaccines: A Systematic Review
Authors: Malik Mahnoor , Bauer-Maison Natasha , Guarna Giuliana , D'Souza Rohan D.
Published: March 2024

Objective: The objectives of this study were to identify common social media misconceptions about COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy, explain the spread of misinformation, and identify solutions to guide clinical practice and policy. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted and the databases Embase and Medline were searched from December 2019 to February 8, 2023, using terms related to social media, pregnancy, COVID-19 vaccines and misinformation. The inclusion criteria were original research studies that discussed misinformation about COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy on social media. The exclusion criteria were review articles, no full text, and not published in English. Two independent reviewers conducted screening, extraction, and quality assessment. Results: Our search identified 76 articles, of which 3 fulfilled eligibility criteria. Included studies were of moderate and high quality. The social media platforms investigated included Facebook, Google Searches, Instagram, Reddit, TikTok, and Twitter. Misinformation was related to concerns regarding vaccine safety, and its association with infertility. Misinformation was increased due to lack of content monitoring on social media, exclusion of pregnant women from early vaccine trials, lack of information from reputable health sources on social media, and others. Suggested solutions were directed at pregnancy care providers (PCPs) and public health/government. Suggestions included: (i) integrating COVID-19 vaccination information into antenatal care, (ii) PCPs and public health should increase their social media presence to disseminate information, (iii) address population-specific vaccine concerns in a culturally relevant manner, and others. Conclusion: Increased availability of information from reputable health sources through multiple channels could increase COVID-19 vaccine uptake in the pregnant population and help combat misinformation.
Diagnostic Methods for Helicobacter pylori
Authors: Costa Liana Cristina Melo Carneiro , das Graças Carvalho Maria , La Guárdia Custódio Pereira Ana Cristina , Teixeira Neto Rafael Gonçalves , Andrade Figueiredo Lívia Carolina , Barros-Pinheiro Melina
Published: March 2024

Helicobacter pylori infection is a significant global health concern. It cannot be diagnosed based solely on the patient’s medical history and symptoms, and laboratory and imaging tests are often required to confirm the diagnosis. Both noninvasive and invasive methods are available for diagnosing H. pylori infection, including conventional and advanced detection techniques. It is not uncommon for patients to present with false-negative results due to the use of inadequate investigation methodologies, which prevents the adoption of appropriate clinical management. Thus, an analysis of the literature regarding the methods of diagnosis of H. pylori, with its advantages and disadvantages, is necessary. Publications in specialized scientific journals will undoubtedly contribute to facilitating access by professionals interested in the topic providing greater knowledge and potentially clinically useful guidance. In this review, the authors have sought to analyze and summarize the invasive and noninvasive methods, their applications, limitations, and the conditions that affect the sensitivity of the tests used for diagnosing H. pylori, an essential step for the successful treatment of this infection. It is essential to treat all patients infected with H. pylori. This represents a significant change in the approach, as the treatment was recommended previously only for patients showing symptoms of infection. Therefore, it is crucial to understand the limitations of traditional diagnostic methods and help raise awareness among healthcare professionals about the latest advances in diagnosing this important bacterium.
Circadian Mechanisms in Brain Fluid Biology
Authors: Vizcarra Velia S. , Fame Ryann M. , Hablitz Lauren M.
Published: March 2024

The brain is a complex organ, fundamentally changing across the day to perform basic functions like sleep, thought, and regulating whole-body physiology. This requires a complex symphony of nutrients, hormones, ions, neurotransmitters and more to be properly distributed across the brain to maintain homeostasis throughout 24 hours. These solutes are distributed both by the blood and by cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid contents are distinct from the general circulation because of regulation at brain barriers including the choroid plexus, glymphatic system, and blood-brain barrier. In this review, we discuss the overlapping circadian (≈24-hour) rhythms in brain fluid biology and at the brain barriers. Our goal is for the reader to gain both a fundamental understanding of brain barriers alongside an understanding of the interactions between these fluids and the circadian timing system. Ultimately, this review will provide new insight into how alterations in these finely tuned clocks may lead to pathology.
Circadian Effects on Vascular Immunopathologies
Authors: Zeng Qun , Oliva Valeria Maria , Moro María Ángeles , Scheiermann Christoph
Published: March 2024

Circadian rhythms exert a profound impact on most aspects of mammalian physiology, including the immune and cardiovascular systems. Leukocytes engage in time-of-day–dependent interactions with the vasculature, facilitating the emigration to and the immune surveillance of tissues. This review provides an overview of circadian control of immune-vascular interactions in both the steady state and cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis and infarction. Circadian rhythms impact both the immune and vascular facets of these interactions, primarily through the regulation of chemoattractant and adhesion molecules on immune and endothelial cells. Misaligned light conditions disrupt this rhythm, generally exacerbating atherosclerosis and infarction. In cardiovascular diseases, distinct circadian clock genes, while functioning as part of an integrated circadian system, can have proinflammatory or anti-inflammatory effects on these immune-vascular interactions. Here, we discuss the mechanisms and relevance of circadian rhythms in vascular immunopathologies.
Circadian Biology and the Neurovascular Unit
Authors: Li Wenlu , Tiedt Steffen , Lawrence Jennifer H. , Harrington Mary E. , Musiek Erik S. , Lo Eng H.
Published: March 2024

Mammalian physiology and cellular function are subject to significant oscillations over the course of every 24-hour day. It is likely that these daily rhythms will affect function as well as mechanisms of disease in the central nervous system. In this review, we attempt to survey and synthesize emerging studies that investigate how circadian biology may influence the neurovascular unit. We examine how circadian clocks may operate in neural, glial, and vascular compartments, review how circadian mechanisms regulate cell-cell signaling, assess interactions with aging and vascular comorbidities, and finally ask whether and how circadian effects and disruptions in rhythms may influence the risk and progression of pathophysiology in cerebrovascular disease. Overcoming identified challenges and leveraging opportunities for future research might support the development of novel circadian-based treatments for stroke.
Dietary niche of the endangered Psychedelic Rock Gecko (Cnemaspis psychedelica) in southern Vietnam
Authors: Ngo Hai Ngoc , Nguyen Truong Quang , Nguyen Khoi Vu , Ziegler Thomas
Published: March 2024

The Psychedelic Rock Gecko (Cnemaspis psychedelica), is a species endemic to southernmost Vietnam. It was recently assessed as Endangered in the IUCN Red List and also included in the CITES Appendix I, due to anthropogenic threats such as habitat degradation and over-collection for the pet trade. To protect wild populations and the natural habitat of this species, knowledge of its demography and ecology is essential to implement fitting conservation measures. In this study, we conducted field surveys on Hon Khoai Island, Ca Mau Province, southern Vietnam in both dry and wet seasons, and obtained food contents of 114 individuals of C. psychedelica by water-flushing the stomach without sacrificing them. Consequently, 685 invertebrate items were identified, belonging to 24 different prey types of 20 invertebrate orders, as well as flatworms, snails and plant parts. Araneae, Blattodea, Hymenoptera and Isoptera were identified as the most important prey of C. psychedelica, among which Araneae accounted for the highest percentage, and thus the highest importance index, during the dry season and Hymenoptera during the wet season. There was a large overlap in the trophic niche between the two seasons, and between males and females of C. psychedelica. This study shows that not only suitable habitat but also a particular food spectrum is a requirement for the species and this, in addition, is important to optimize conservation breeding programs.
Fruits of the Gardens: Ethics, Metaphysics, and Textual Pleasures in Late Qajar Iran
Authors: Gheissari Ali
Published: March 2024

This article introduces a miscellany notebook in Arabic and Persian, entitled Favāka al-basātin (Fruits of the Gardens), compiled around 1914 in Tehran by Hājj Mirzā Mohammad Tehrāni (d. 1914–21), a learned sugar merchant and bookseller. The notebook covers a broad range of topics on faith, philosophy, and ethics. It frequently draws on the Qurʾan and the Hadith, as well as Stoic proverbs, mostly from the Meditationes (Meditations) of Marcus Aurelius (r. 161–80), which was well received in nineteenth-century Persian advice literature. The text also includes passages from the Thousand and One Nights and sections on modern sciences, such as electricity, gas laws, and liquid dynamics, and a theory of colors explaining the rainbow. The article’s introductory section provides brief biographical background of the compiler of this notebook, the second section presents an overview of its contents, and the final section explores the question of authorial subjectivity and the author-text relationship by putting in perspective the volume’s gradual compilation, its eclectic range of topics, and its fluid structure. Through its diverse reading and writing strategies, this notebook represents an informative and heuristic venue that opens new analytical angles on Iran’s cosmopolitan, multifaceted, and heterogenous intellectual milieu in the late Qajar period.
Where Was Sarai, the “Capital” of the Jochid Ulus? Some Perspectives for Research on Sarai
Authors: Nagamine Hiroyuki
Published: March 2024

Regarding Sarai – the “capital” of the Jochid ulus (Golden Horde) and the “metropolis of the Qipchaq Steppe” – it is the established theory that Old Sarai was located at the Selitrennoe site, and New Sarai at the Tsarevskoe site, both on the Akhtuba River. However, new theories that disagree with this have emerged: these theories claim that there was only one Sarai, or that Sarai was located at different places. First, I examine these new theories, and show that, indeed, there may have been two Sarais, old and new. Next, I argue the following possibilities: the lower Volga valley between Sarai–Hajji Tarkhan as winter camp and Ukek–Bulgar as summer camp was the “capital region” of the early Jochid ulus; Saraijuq has been discussed as being the khans’ burial grounds (qoruq), however, from archaeological surveys and the “[dynasty] table” (jadwal) in the Paris manuscript of Muntakhab al-Tawārīkh-i Muʿīnī, Sarai (and its suburbs) also assumed that role.
Research Progress in Facility Agriculture and Lighting by Bibliometric Analysis Based on CiteSpace
Authors: Xia Zhengyu , Li Zhanming
Published: March 2024

Given the pressures of internation-al market competition, the dual constraints of domestic resources and the environment, and the uncertainties posed by climate change, bolstering agricultural infra-structure construction is a realistic demand and a crucial approach for implementing emerging grain security strat-egies, particularly in developing countries. Facility agriculture is characterized as a modern agricultural production mode that improves or creates favorable environmental conditions within a specific locality. With the rapid expansion of large-scale facility agriculture, there has been an increased demand for various types of energy, including electricity, gas, cold, and heat. Agricultural lighting equipment used in facility agriculture is a modern agricultural technique that applies engineering technology to regulate light supplementation in the production process. Facility lighting offers several advantages over traditional methods, such as higher photovoltaic conversion efficiency, adjustable spectrum, high photosynthetic efficiency, energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, long lifespan, monochromatic light, cold light source, and compact size. Promoting national food security, carbon neutrality, returning farmland to forests, and implementing low-carbon green agricultural policies all contribute to the favorable use of facility agriculture lighting. This study aims to provide a systematic summary of the relevant research conducted in the past decade using Citespace software. The advantage of facility agriculture for carbon sequestration capacity can effectively reduce net carbon emissions from facility agricultural production activities. In addition, the combination of agriculture and the Internet of Things can effectively improve agricultural production efficiency and economic returns. Combining artificial intelligence and other technologies with facility agriculture engineering, based on multi-source data fusion, intelligent early warning for facility agriculture energy internet can be used to prevent agricultural meteorological disasters. More importantly, it helps maintain global food security, eliminate hunger, and reduce economic inequality. The findings of this study will contribute to a deeper understanding of agricultural lighting equipment, serving as a new theoretical foundation for achieving agricultural emission reduction targets and promoting agricultural technical cooperation.
Proficiency Testing Program for Fly Ash: Ensuring Quality and Consistency Through Standardized Evaluation
Authors: Vashishtha Shwet
Published: March 2024

This case study evaluates a Proficiency Testing Program (PTP) for fly ash testing, focusing on the homogeneity, stability, and performance of participating laboratories. The study aims to identify areas for improvement in testing methodologies to enhance the reliability of fly ash analysis. The PTP adheres to international standards, including ISO 13528:2015 and ISO/IEC 17043:2010, for sample preparation, testing, and data analysis. The PTP ensures the homogeneity of test samples through meticulous division, testing, and data-driven analysis. The stability of samples is monitored through regular tests at predetermined intervals, with results compared to initial homogeneity tests. The methodology of evaluation involves calculating Z' (z-prime) scores to assess the performance of participant laboratories, with scores within ±2.0 considered satisfactory and scores beyond ±3.0 considered outliers. The results of the proficiency testing reveal variations in the performance of participant laboratories across specific gravity, fineness, compressive strength at 7 days, and soundness by autoclave parameters. While most laboratories demonstrate adherence to expected values, some deviations raise concerns and highlight the need for continuous improvement. Laboratories with deviations are encouraged to evaluate their testing methodologies and address factors contributing to the observed deviations. Overall, the study underscores the importance of proficiency testing in ensuring the quality and consistency of fly ash testing. Continued development and refinement of proficiency testing programs are essential for the sustainable utilization of fly ash in various applications.
Solar-Assisted Green Synthesis, Molecular Docking, Antibacterial, and Cytotoxicity Studies of Symmetrical N, N’-Alkylidene Bisamides Bearing Lower E-Factors
Authors: Kamble Omkar Sharad , Chatterjee Rana , Gad Shubhada , Kansara Samarath , Ayakar Sonal , Pandey Amit Kumar , Dandela Rambabu
Published: March 2024

N, N'-alkylidene bisamides show promise in biological and pharmaceutical uses. Advanced chemistry now explores cleaner and more environmentally friendly methods. One such method involves using concentrated solar radiation (CSR) to facilitate the green synthesis of N, N'-alkylidene bisamides. This approach simplifies the process by combining aldehydes and amides in a one-pot reaction. Its solvent-free nature sets it apart, aligning with environmentally friendly practices. Any regular catalyst aids the response, making it efficient. The simplicity continues with an easy filtration step to isolate the products. Notably, there's no need for column chromatography, making the purification process straightforward. In general, a mixture of aldehyde, aryl/alkylamide was taken in a round bottom flask. The reaction mass in RBF was then kept under the concentrated solar radiation (CSR) setup with continuous stirring on a magnetic stirrer. After few hours of stirring the precipitate was observed. After completion of the reaction, the precipitated product was washed with water and recrystallized from hot ethanol to afford pure product symmetrical N, N'-alkylidene bisamide. Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) was used as a solvent to prepare a stock of derivatives. Luria Bertani broth (LB) used for the present study viz; Staphylococ-cus aureus MCC 2408, Escherichia coli MCC 2412, Pseudomonas aeruginosa MCC 2080 and Klebsiella pneumoniae MCC 2451 used to evaluate the antibacterial property of the derivatives. Indeed, this method offers an eco-friendly solution and showcases the potential of using renewable energy sources in chemical synthesis. It is a significant step towards sustainable practices in chemistry, particularly in producing complex organic compounds for biological and pharmaceutical purposes.
Virtualization of a 4G Evolved Packet Core Network Using Network Function Virtualization (NFV) Technology with NS3 for Enterprise and Educational Purpose
Authors: Emmanuel Tonye , Michel Deussom Djomadji Eric , Agbor Ebai Oben Brolynes
Published: March 2024

The current networks of many operators dispose an increasing variety of purpose built, vertically integrated, and vendor-locked hardware equipment. This makes it difficult to easily scale their radio access and core networks as it requires yet another variety of equipment, leading to increased Time-to-Market and inefficient resource utilization. Furthermore, network equipment are expensive to procure and upgrade (increased CAPEX), and are difficult to adapt and program for new services (increased OPEX). These trends have recently spurred several efforts to redesign various components of mobile networks, notably the 4G Evolved Packet Core (EPC). With regards to this, the present work proposes a solution based on Network Function Virtualization (NFV), which can be deployed for educational or enterprises purpose like in Data Centers, or network nodes with a fine-grained QoS, while maintaining the scalability of the virtualized network function entities, and optimum resource utilization. The actual work develops a mobile network simulation module centered on the 4G Core network comprising its major components; MME, SGW, and PGW (vEPC), as well as the networking amongst these entities, core network related aspects such as its interaction with the Enhanced Radio Access Network (E-UTRAN) and the Packet Data Network Services (Internet). This solution gives to core network engineers and EPC network agents the possibility to design, analyze and test variable types of network scenarios. The solution can be also integrated in engineering schools and college for labs’ practical work or to any e-laboratory initiative to allow students in virtual environment to analyze signaling, modify the network configuration and better understand some theoretical concepts taught during the courses. The results obtained from the present work can be of great help during the final deployment phase of the network for full production for engineers of carriers’ network or improve the engineering understanding of core network in academic domain. In this light, the network can easily be scaled, adjust virtually for the time to commercialize a service reduced for carrier or enterprises’ solutions or for testing in e-laboratories.