bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ezafe in Zazaki
Authors: Gündoğdu Songül , Bulan Amine
Published: September 2023

This chapter describes the Ezafe construction in Zazaki in which all nominal and non-nominal modifiers, including possessors, appear in the postnominal position and are linked to their head noun with the Ezafe marker. Ezafe in this language displays distinguishing properties such that it not only inflects for the phi-features and the definiteness of the head noun, but it also reflects the case that the whole noun phrase receives in the clause. The Direct and Oblique case distinctions observed in this language are thus reflected on the Ezafe forms in relevant syntactic positions. Besides, there is a separate series of Ezafe forms, which we refer to as D-forms, used only in Southern Zazaki whenever a modified noun phrase serves as the possessor or as the complement of certain adpositions, or after the indefinite suffix in the context of indefiniteness.
The Ezafe in Hawrami
Authors: Peters Sable Andrew , Naghshbandi Zaniar , Rasouli Arwin
Published: September 2023

This chapter provides a basic description of the Ezafe in Hawrami, a dialect of the Gorani languages spoken in the Hawraman region of Northwestern Iran and Iraq. This study is based on the variety spoken in Paveh, Kermanshah province, Iran. A basic overview of the nominal domain in Hawrami is given, followed by discussions of varying morphology of the Ezafe vowel in the language. Important to note is the interaction between the system of definiteness and the Ezafe. Moreover, the expression of the genitive case in the Ezafe paradigm is of particular interest to discussions of case interactions in languages with Ezafe linkers.
Nominal linkers in Persian
Authors: Ariyaee Koorosh
Published: September 2023

This chapter examines nominal constructions in (Iranian) Persian with the special focus on the distribution of Ezafe. Ezafe is an element which links a nominal to its modifiers and arguments. Persian has nominal modifiers of different types. They can be either prenominal or postnominal. The modifiers appearing in a postnominal position, always require Ezafe. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that the use of Ezafe is not restricted only to modification, since it also links a noun to its complement. The use of Ezafe is not restricted only to noun phrases either since Ezafe can link a nominal preposition to its complement as well.
Nominal linkers in Gilaki
Authors: Shabani Mansour , Taghipour Sahar
Published: September 2023

This paper provides a description of noun phrases in the Eshkevarat variety of Gilaki (Northwestern Iranian). In Eshkevarat Gilaki, noun phrases and the majority of adpositional phrases are head final. Some nominal modifiers as well as the complement of postpositions are linked to the head of the phrase by a linking element––known as Reverse Ezafe (Stilo 2004). We show that the Reverse Ezafe appearing in possessive and adpositional contexts has different properties compared to the one appearing on attributive adjectives.
Efektivitas Games PowerPoint dalam Meningkatkan Hasil Belajar Pendidikan Agama Islam
Authors: Hamka Muh. Syahrul , Usman Usman , Halik Abdul , Hamdanah Hamdanah , Muhammadun Muzdalifah
Published: September 2023

Using a learning media adapted to the characteristics of students who like to play, designed through the application of PowerPoint presentations, is a solution for students' PAI learning outcomes. This research used a quasi-experimental design with a pretest-posttest control group design. The research sample consisted of 18 students: 9 in the experimental and 9 in the control classes. The research focused on student learning outcomes before and after using learning media based on PowerPoint games in third grade of SD Negeri 294 Lempa. The results showed that students' learning outcomes experienced an increase after using learning media based on PowerPoint games, as shown in the test results. The indicators can be seen from the pretest-posttest results. In the experimental class, the average pre-test score was 62.68, which increased to 81.1 after the post-test. In the control class, the pre-test score was 48.22 to an average of 50.66 after the post-test. The result of calculating the N-Gain Score for the experimental class was 59.40, which was categorized as quite effective, while the control class's N-Gain Score was 38.16, classified as ineffective.
Pembelajaran Kitab Al-Hujjaj Al-Qath’iyyah dalam Perspektif Gender di Pondok Pesantren Mahasiswa
Authors: Mardliyah Ikhda Khullatil , Hasanah Dian Uswatun , Indriani Nahrin
Published: September 2023

Gender bias in learning the yellow book is rarely realized by the community, even by the students, both boys and girls. The novelty of this research is that there is no study with a gender perspective in learning the book Al-Hujjaj Al-Qath'iyyah. The primary purpose of this study is to describe a gender perspective in understanding the book Al-Hujjaj Al-Qath'iyyah at PPM Darussalam. This research is a qualitative descriptive study—data sources from events, informants, and documents. Data collection techniques are in the form of observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation studies. The data validation technique uses source triangulation—data analysis techniques using the Creswell model: organizing, transcribing, and analyzing data. The results of the study show that in teaching the book at Islamic boarding schools, it is necessary always to carry out an in-depth analysis of texts that can lead to different gender perspectives, as is the case with the discussion of women who are prohibited from pilgrimage in the book Al-Hujjaj Al-Qath'iyyah.
Integrating extensive and intensive reading worksheets on digital platforms
Authors: Haswani Fahri , Erlita Yeni , Rika
Published: September 2023

This study aims at exploring the strengths of extensive reading and intensive reading (EXIT) integration by involving the use of digital-platform base worksheet in optimizing the students’ reading skill. The foci include revealing the students’ perspectives towards such a hybrid implementation as well as theoretical justifications to the significances of EXIT integration and digital-platform base worksheet in reading activities. This descriptive qualitative study took place in a state university in North Sumatera ad involved 30 students of English education taking Writing class. Questionnaire, interview, and documentation were used to collect the data.  The qualitative data were then analyzed to meet triangulation data validity. It was found that the students perceive the significances of EXIT integration and roles of digital-platform base worksheet are oriented to optimize their reading comprehension. Documentation also showed the students’ interests and motivation in EXIT using digital-platform base improved. Exploration to teachers’ perspectives towards the same treatment is suggested to see the significances of each reading technique and reading tool from different point of view.
Knowledge and perception of coronary angiography and coronary angioplasty by physicians involved in the management of cardiovascular emergencies in Togo
Authors:   Department of Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lome, 01BP: 1515 Lome – Togo., Afassinou Yaovi Mignazonzon , Pessinaba Souleymane ,   Department of Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lome, 01BP: 1515 Lome – Togo., Atta Borgatia ,   Department of Medicine and Specialty, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Kara, BP 404 Lome – Togo., Barhinjibanwa Cuma Vianney ,   Department of Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lome, 01BP: 1515 Lome – Togo., Ayewanou Edorh Hervé Liberus ,   Department of Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lome, 01BP: 1515 Lome – Togo., Oloude Nansirine ,   Department of Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lome, 01BP: 1515 Lome – Togo., Pio Machihude ,   Department of Medicine and Specialty, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Kara, BP 404 Lome – Togo., Baragou Soodougoua ,   Department of Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lome, 01BP: 1515 Lome – Togo., Damorou Findibe ,   Department of Medicine and Specialties, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Lome, 01BP: 1515 Lome – Togo.
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Interventional cardiology is emerging in Togo. The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge and attitudes regarding coronary angiography and angioplasty of physicians involved in the management of cardiovascular emergencies in Togo. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional study that was conducted for three months from January 15 to June 30, 2022 and that focused on doctors involved in the management of cardiovascular emergencies in Togo, who volunteered to participate in the study. Results: We interviewed 150 doctors with an average age of 32.8 5.6 years. Eight (10.7%) physicians reported having no knowledge of coronary angiography. All physicians recognized acute coronary syndromes (ACS) with persistent ST-segment elevation, the positive myocardial ischemia test as an indication of coronary angiography. Indications of coronary angiography, such as ventricular rhythm disorders, unexplained heart failure and stable angina were not well understood by 20 (13.3%), 19 (12.7%) and 9 (6.0%) respectively. All doctors knew that angioplasty could be accompanied by complications, but 48% were unaware of the skin complications of irradiation. The availability of coronary angiography and angioplasty in cardiac practice in Togo was ignored by 23 physicians or 15.3%. Coronary angiography and coronary angioplasty were perceived as very expensive by 70.7% of physicians. The cost of these procedures was a barrier to their prescription among 78 doctors (52. %). Conclusion: Coronary interventional cardiology is performed routinely in Togo. Physicians involved in the management of cardiovascular emergencies have a level of knowledge and attitudes that need to be improved.
Relationship Between Changes in Daily Habits and Oral Health Practices in Korean Adolescents After COVID-19
Authors:   The Korean Society of Oral Health Science, Park Sin-Young
Published: September 2023

Objectives: This study aims to explore the relationship between oral health habits and changes to the everyday habits of Korean adolescents after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods: Data were collected using the 17th (2021) Youth Health Behavior Survey.
Results: Of the changes to everyday habits caused by COVID-19, physical activity, skipping breakfast, drinking, depression, and reduced economic circumstances were related to adolescents’ oral health practices.
Conclusions: There is a need for solutions to the impact of COVID-19 on adolescents’ oral health habits.
Effects of Brushing Education on Behavioral Change in Patients with Cervical Abrasion
Authors:   The Korean Society of Oral Health Science, Yeo Ji-Hyeon , Lee Byung-Ho , Lee Min-kyung , Kim Hye-Jin
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Targeting patients with cervical abrasion, we aimed to improve the habit of brushing and reduce the recurrence of cervical abrasion by repeatedly and periodically teaching the subject's brushing habit and correct brushing method.
Methods: From August 31, 2022 to May 31, 2023, for patients who visited a dental clinic due to cervical abrasion, repeated brushing education was conducted for 12 weeks after a questionnaire survey and dental plaque test.
Results: Compared to before the brushing method training, the time of brushing increased, and the change in the modified O'Leary Index increased from an average of 54.52 points to 76.70 points.
Conclusions: As a dental hygienist's job, it is necessary to recognize the importance of continuous brushing method education and make efforts to provide education for behavioral change rather than simply conveying knowledge about brushing methods.
Silent SARS-CoV-2 infection: seroprevalence study of SARS-CoV-2 anti- nucleocapsid IgG antibodies in Kragujevac, Serbia
Authors: Cicaric Neda , Canovic Vanja , Stojkovic Milica , Matic Sanja , Stefanovic Srdjan , Popovic Suzana , Todorovic Danijela , Djordjevic Natasa , Radenkovic Biljana , Radenkovic Marko , Antic Vasilije , Baskic Dejan
Published: September 2023

Serological testing is a powerful tool for analyzing the infectious disease burden landscape. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the seroprevalence against SARS-CoV-2 in the population of the municipality of Kragujevac, Serbia, with a particular reference to silent infections. A total of 4,804 participants over 19 years of age were randomly sampled for population-based seroprevalence research. Anti-N IgG antibodies were measured using rapid serological tests (UNscience®). The population was divided into four Cohorts, according to the history of SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination status with the whole inactivated virus vaccine BBIBP-CorV (Vero Cell®, Sinopharm), as follows: Cohort I—confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, not vaccinated with the BBIBP-CorV vaccine; Cohort II—without confirmed SARS- CoV-2 infection, vaccinated with the BBIBP-CorV vaccine; Cohort III—confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, vaccinated with the BBIBP-CorV vaccine; Cohort IV—without confirmed SARS-CoV-2 infection, not vaccinated with the BBIBP-CorV vaccine (silent immunization). Cohorts I and IV included patients vaccinated with vaccines other than the BBIBP-CorV vaccine. The results showed that the overall prevalence of anti-N IgG antibodies was 56.5%, with the highest seroprevalence in Cohort III at 85.8%. In Cohort IV, the prevalence of anti-N IgG antibodies was 40.7%, attributed to silent immunization. The results also suggest that the prevalence of anti-N IgG antibodies decreased over time but remained detectable for more than 12 months in Cohort I. Since currently, there is no data on silent infection frequency in our country, these findings may provide insight into the extent of silent infections in the Serbian population.
Weed dynamics under diverse nutrient management and crop rotation practices in the dry zone of Sri Lanka
Authors: Wickramasinghe Darshika , Devasinghe Udeni , Suriyagoda Lalith D. B. , Egodawatta Chamnida , Benaragama Dilshan I.
Published: September 2023

Integrated weed control strategies are essential for organic and integrated nutrient management, where both systems are progressing with a fundamental of zero or minimum synthetic chemical cultivations. For optimizing the outcome of weed management, a better understanding of the weed dynamic is needed. Especially, with the absence of herbicides, weeds are expected to be controlled by the system itself, during the transition period under rice-based crop rotation systems. This study was conducted to estimate the weed abundance, growth, and composition during the transitional period with conventional (CONV), integrated (INT), and organic (ORG) nutrient management under four crop diversification intensities in a dry zone of Sri Lanka. Monocrop rice and a rice-maize rotation were the starting point. After 1 year, the diversification intensity was increased by adding interseason sunnhemp (rice-sunnhemp-rice and rice-sunnhemp-maize). Weed density and weed biomass were measured at 20 DAS and 60 DAS intervals. Weed density was higher in ORG during the early growth stages of monocrop rice rotation in the 1st cycle, and monocrop rice and rice-sunnhemp-rice rotation in the 2nd cycle while didn’t show any changes during the later growth stage of all systems in both cycles. The total weed biomass in ORG increased with increasing crop diversification. Overall, crop rotation in INT reported the lowest weed density and biomass after two cycles. In the CONV with rice-sunnhemp-maize rotation, weed biomass had declined, while in ORG grass biomass decreased only in sunnhemp cultivated rotations. Overall, INT was the best for weed suppression irrespective of crop rotation intensities. Monoculture with rice in the INT was able to suppress weed more effectively than rice-maize rotation.
Baicalin-aluminum alleviates necrotic enteritis in broiler chickens by inhibiting virulence factors expression of Clostridium perfringens
Authors: Liu Jin , Wu Shuangqi , Zhao Honghao , Ye Chun , Fu Shulin , Liu Yu , Liu Ting , Qiu Yinsheng
Published: September 2023

Clostridium perfringens type A is the main cause of necrotic enteritis (NE) in chickens. Since the use of antibiotics in feed is withdrawn, it is imperative to find out suitable alternatives to control NE. Baicalin-aluminum complex is synthesized from baicalin, a flavonoid isolated from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi. The present study investigated the effects of baicalin-aluminum on the virulence-associated traits and virulence genes expression of C. perfringens CVCC2030, it also evaluated the in vivo therapeutic effect on NE. The results showed that baicalin-aluminum inhibited bacterial hemolytic activity, diminished biofilm formation, attenuated cytotoxicity to Caco-2 cells, downregulated the expression of genes encoding for clostridial toxins and extracellular enzymes such as alpha toxin (CPA), perfringolysin O (PFO), collagenase (ColA), and sialidases (NanI, NanJ). Additionally, baicalin-aluminum was found to negatively regulate the expression of genes involved in quorum sensing (QS) communication, including genes of Agr QS system (agrB, agrD) and genes of VirS/R two-component regulatory system (virS, virR). In vivo experiments, baicalin-aluminum lightened the intestinal lesions and histological damage, it inhibited pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6) expression in the jejunal and ileal tissues. Besides, baicalin-aluminum alleviated the upregulation of C. perfringens and Escherichia coli and raised the relative abundance of Lactobacillus in the ileal digesta. This study suggests that baicalin-aluminum may be a potential candidate against C. perfringens infection by inhibiting the virulence-associated traits and virulence genes expression.
Combination optimization of green energy supply in data center based on simulated annealing particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Liu Xuehui , Hou Guisheng , Yang Lei
Published: September 2023

At present, the high energy consumption of data centers based on grid power supply not only brings huge direct cost of electricity, but also indirectly produces a lot of greenhouse gases, which affects the natural environment. Academia and industry are beginning to introduce clean renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power into data centers to reduce operating costs and environmental damage by building new green data centers. To solve this problem, this study considers the use of waste heat for refrigeration while taking natural gas power generation into account, and introduces wind energy as a green energy source. On the premise of considering the response level of data centers, the two resources are combined and deployed to improve resource utilization and reduce energy consumption costs. Aiming at the instability of wind power generation, a particle swarm energy scheduling optimization algorithm based on simulated annealing algorithm was proposed by combining simulated annealing algorithm and particle swarm optimization algorithm. The research shows that, considering the response level of data centers, the use of natural gas and wind energy as the main energy supply can effectively reduce the overall energy consumption of data centers.
A comparison of teacher’s involvement in curriculum development in developing and developed countries: a case study of Namibia
Authors: Matiki DesRee Sabata , Chibambo Mackenzie Ishmael , Divala Joseph Jinja
Published: September 2023

Curriculum development is an on-going process which involves different stakeholders such as teachers, parents, curriculum specialists, academic institutions and the general public. The involvement of all these stakeholders is essential for the success of any curriculum. This study sought to determine how teachers are involved in the curriculum development processes in Namibia. It did this by examining related literature from selected developing and developed countries on teacher involvement in the curriculum development processes. It further deployed a qualitative research approach which had a sample size of 11 secondary school teachers and six NIED officials who were interviewed. The empirical data alongside the reviewed literature, and the theoretical framework were thematically analysed. The findings revealed that secondary school teachers in Namibia did not meaningfully participate during the key stages of the curriculum development processes. These findings further affirmed the assumptions that teacher’s voices are mostly discounted during curriculum development processes despite the centrality of their roles and functions. The study further established that Namibia, like many African countries, use the top-down approaches when developing their curricula unlike developed countries such as Australia, Finland and Singapore.
Dose-response relationships of resistance training in Type 2 diabetes mellitus: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Su Wanying , Tao Meiyi , Ma Lin , Tang Ke , Xiong Fang , Dai Xuan , Qin Yuelan
Published: September 2023

Background

Globally, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) accounts for approximately 90% of diabetes cases. Resistance training (RT) is frequently employed to diminish Glycated Hemoglobin (HbA1c) and Fast Blood Glucose (FBG) levels in T2DM patients. Yet, the specific dose-response relationships between RT variables such as training duration, frequency, and intensity for T2DM remain under-researched.

Objectives

This meta-analysis aimed to elucidate the overarching effects of RT on HbA1c and FBG metrics and to provide dose-response relationships of RT variables. This was achieved by examining randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that reported reductions in HbA1c and FBG among T2DM patients.

Methods

Comprehensive literature searches were conducted up to 25thFebruary 2023 across databases including EMBASE, Pubmed, Cochrane, CENTRAL, Web of Science, CNKI, Wanfang Data, VIP Database for Chinese Technical Periodicals, and the Chinese Biomedical Database. The Physical Therapy Evidence Database (PEDro) was leveraged to appraise the quality of selected studies based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The meta-analysis was conducted using Stata 16.

Results

26 studies that include 1336 participants met the criteria for inclusion. RT significantly reduced HbA1c and FBG levels in comparison to control groups (P<0.05). Meta-regression analyses revealed that the number of repetitions per set (p=0.034) was a significant predictor of RT’s efficacy on HbA1c. Subgroup analyses indicated that the most pronounced reductions in HbA1c and FBG occurred with a training duration of 12-16 weeks, intensities of 70-80% of 1 RM, training frequencies of 2-3 times per week, 3 sets per session, 8-10 repetitions per set, and less than a 60-second rest interval.

Conclusion

The beneficial impact of RT on HbA1c and FBG in T2DM patients is affirmed by this systematic review and meta-analysis. Moreover, the critical training parameters identified in this study are pivotal in enhancing HbA1c and FBG reductions, providing a reference for clinical staff to formulate RT exercise regiments for T2DM patients.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023414616.
Effect of thyroid hormone replacement treatment on cardiac diastolic function in adult patients with subclinical hypothyroidism: a meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Gejing , Ren Man , Du Yingshi , Zhao Ruoyu , Wu Yu , Liu Yongming , Qi Liang
Published: September 2023

Background

Although subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) is related to abnormalities in left ventricular diastolic function, the use of levothyroxine as a regular treatment remains debatable. This meta-analysis aimed to determine whether thyroid hormone replacement therapy affects cardiac diastolic function in patients with SCH as measured by echocardiography.

Methods

This meta-analysis included a search of the EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases from their inception to May 18, 2023, for studies analyzing cardiac morphology and functional changes in patients with SCH before and after thyroid hormone replacement. The outcome measures were cardiac morphology and diastolic and overall cardiac function, as assessed using ultrasound parameters (including ventricular wall thickness, chamber size, mitral wave flow, tissue Doppler, and speckle tracking). The quality of the studies was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. The standard mean differences (MDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated using fixed- or random-effects models.

Results

Seventeen studies met the inclusion criteria. A total of 568 patients participated and completed the follow-up. All studies specifically stated that serum thyrotropin levels returned to normal by the end of the study period. Compared with baseline levels, no significant morphological changes were observed in the heart. In terms of diastolic function, we discovered that the ratios of E-velocity to A-velocity (E/A) had greatly improved after thyroid hormone replacement therapy, whereas the ratios of the mitral inflow E wave to the tissue Doppler e’ wave (E/e’) had not. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) increased significantly after treatment with levothyroxine.

Conclusion

In adult patients with SCH, thyroid hormone supplementation can partially but not completely improve parameters of diastolic function during the observation period. This meta-analysis was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 statement, an updated guideline for reporting systematic reviews (11) and was registered with INPLASY (INPLASY202320083).

Systematic review registration

https://inplasy.com/inplasy-2023-2-0083.
An effective solution to the optimal power flow problem using meta-heuristic algorithms
Authors: Aurangzeb Khursheed , Shafiq Sundas , Alhussein Musaed , Pamir  , Javaid Nadeem , Imran Muhammad
Published: September 2023

Financial loss in power systems is an emerging problem that needs to be resolved. To tackle the mentioned problem, energy generated from various generation sources in the power network needs proper scheduling. In order to determine the best settings for the control variables, this study formulates and solves an optimal power flow (OPF) problem. In the proposed work, the bird swarm algorithm (BSA), JAYA, and a hybrid of both algorithms, termed as HJBSA, are used for obtaining the settings of optimum variables. We perform simulations by considering the constraints of voltage stability and line capacity, and generated reactive and active power. In addition, the used algorithms solve the problem of OPF and minimize carbon emission generated from thermal systems, fuel cost, voltage deviations, and losses in generation of active power. The suggested approach is evaluated by putting it into use on two separate IEEE testing systems, one with 30 buses and the other with 57 buses. The simulation results show that for the 30-bus system, the minimization in cost by HJBSA, JAYA, and BSA is 860.54 $/h, 862.31, $/h and 900.01 $/h, respectively, while for the 57-bus system, it is 5506.9 $/h, 6237.4, $/h and 7245.6 $/h for HJBSA, JAYA, and BSA, respectively. Similarly, for the 30-bus system, the power loss by HJBSA, JAYA, and BSA is 9.542 MW, 10.102 MW, and 11.427 MW, respectively, while for the 57-bus system, the value of power loss is 13.473 MW, 20.552, MW and 18.638 MW for HJBSA, JAYA, and BSA, respectively. Moreover, HJBSA, JAYA, and BSA cause reduction in carbon emissions by 4.394 ton/h, 4.524, ton/h and 4.401 ton/h, respectively, with the 30-bus system. With the 57-bus system, HJBSA, JAYA, and BSA cause reduction in carbon emissions by 26.429 ton/h, 27.014, ton/h and 28.568 ton/h, respectively. The results show the outperformance of HJBSA.
Analysing influence of shareholder decision on green innovation knowledge sharing by fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis combined evolutionary game theory
Authors: Wang Zhenqing , Yang Yuqi
Published: September 2023

This article is based on the mixed ownership reform, with energy enterprises as the research object, and constructs a fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis game framework for path optimization in complex systems. Using fsQCA and game theory from the perspective of knowledge sharing, reasonable assumptions are made for the sharing of green innovation knowledge between state-owned and non-state-owned shareholders in energy enterprises, providing policy support and institutional guarantee for the sharing of similar green innovation knowledge in multiple industries, to some extent, it facilitates the exchange and flow of green innovation knowledge among different enterprises, providing the optimal path for complex systems. This article can draw the following conclusions: 1. Government led, government enterprise driven, and enterprise led are the three major influencing paths for promoting green innovation knowledge sharing. The final trend of stable gaming among different types of shareholders depends on sharing profits. 3. The fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis game framework has certain universality.
Interdecadal variation of precipitation over Yunnan, China in summer and its possible causes
Authors: Dong Zeyu , Gui Shu , Yang Ruowen , Cheng Jinxin , Yang Huan , Ma Ji
Published: September 2023

In recent decades, severe drought conditions have become increasingly frequent in Yunnan, Southwest China. The extreme drought events cause huge losses to agricultural economy, ecological security and human health. To uncover the reasons behind the worsening drought conditions, this study investigates the interdecadal variability (IDV) of summer precipitation in Yunnan during 1961–2019 and its association with the Indo-Pacific Sea surface temperature (SST) configuration based on gauge observation and reanalysis data. The dominant mode of summer precipitation IDV in Yunnan shows a uniform pattern characterizing the alternations of flood and drought. Specifically, a relatively wet period persists from the early 1990s to the early 2000s, followed by a relatively dry period from the early 2000s to the late 2010s. The IDV of precipitation is consistent with the IDV of the column-integrated water vapor flux divergence, where the wind anomalies play a major role in modulating the moisture supply. The main SST forcings of the IDV of precipitation include the sea surface temperature anomalies (SSTAs) over the Bay of Bengal (BOB), the Western Pacific Warm Pool (WPWP), and the western North Pacific (WNP). The negative SSTAs over the BOB and the WPWP trigger a Gill-Matsuno-type response that enhances the cyclonic curvature over Yunnan. The SSTAs over the WNP show a tripole pattern that weakens the WNP subtropical high and further enhances the cyclonic anomaly over Yunnan. The above SST configuration also favors moisture transport to Yunnan. Numerical experiments verify the key physical processes.
Digital inclusive finance, consumption structure upgrading and carbon emissions
Authors: Ye Jian , Xu Wenhua , Hu Lujing
Published: September 2023

The “14th Five-Year Plan” represents a crucial phase in enhancing financial inclusivity in China and addressing the challenge of “peak carbon emissions.” Given the digital economy’s rapid growth, China must urgently devise a model for high-quality development that combines digital finance with eco-friendly and low-carbon strategies. Uniquely focusing on the intersection of digital finance and sustainable growth, this paper fills a critical gap in the existing literature. To examine the impact of digital inclusive financing on carbon emissions from the vantage point of enhancing consumption structures, this study uses panel data covering the years 2014–2020 from 30 Chinese provinces. This research underscores the novel finding that digital inclusive finance can play a significant role in lowering carbon emissions by encouraging individuals to alter their consumption patterns. Variations across regions are evident in the impact, with the central and western areas experiencing a more pronounced decline in carbon emissions in comparison to the eastern region. Moreover, the influence of consumption structure upgrading varies across regions. Additionally, the study identifies a positive spatial spillover relationship between digital inclusive finance and carbon emissions. Through its pioneering exploration, this study offers fresh insights for boosting digital finance’s carbon-reduction impacts through consumption structure upgrades, strengthening the spatial interconnectedness of digital finance and consumption trends, and eventually supporting a path toward low-carbon, high-quality development.
Gender and socially inclusive WASH in Nepal: moving beyond “technical fixes”
Authors: Khadka Manohara , Joshi Deepa , Uprety Labisha , Shrestha Gitta
Published: September 2023

The enactment of a new Constitution in 2015 in Nepal marked a shift to a representative system of federal governance. Earlier in 2002, the country's Tenth Five Year Plan had committed to a core focus on gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) in national policies and governance. How do these two strategic shifts in policy align in the case of WASH projects in rural Nepal? Applying a feminist political lens, we review the implementation of WASH initiatives in two rural districts to show that deep-rooted intersectional complexities of caste, class, and gender prevent inclusive WASH outcomes. Our findings show that the policy framing for gender equitable and socially inclusive outcomes have not impacted the WASH sector, where interventions continue as essentially technical interventions. While there has been significant increase in the number of women representatives in local governance structures since 2017, systemic, informal power relationship by caste, ethnicity and gender entrenched across institutional structures and cultures persist and continue to shape unequal gender-power dynamics. This is yet another example that shows that transformative change requires more than just affirmative policies.
Massively-multiplexed epitope mapping techniques for viral antigen discovery
Authors: Hu Diya , Irving Aaron T.
Published: September 2023

Following viral infection, viral antigens bind specifically to receptors on the surface of lymphocytes thereby activating adaptive immunity in the host. An epitope, the smallest structural and functional unit of an antigen, binds specifically to an antibody or antigen receptor, to serve as key sites for the activation of adaptive immunity. The complexity and diverse range of epitopes are essential to study and map for the diagnosis of disease, the design of vaccines and for immunotherapy. Mapping the location of these specific epitopes has become a hot topic in immunology and immune therapy. Recently, epitope mapping techniques have evolved to become multiplexed, with the advent of high-throughput sequencing and techniques such as bacteriophage-display libraries and deep mutational scanning. Here, we briefly introduce the principles, advantages, and disadvantages of the latest epitope mapping techniques with examples for viral antigen discovery.
Monitoring regulatory T cells as a prognostic marker in lung transplantation
Authors: Khan Mohammad Afzal , Lau Christine L. , Krupnick Alexander Sasha
Published: September 2023

Lung transplantation is the major surgical procedure, which restores normal lung functioning and provides years of life for patients suffering from major lung diseases. Lung transplant recipients are at high risk of primary graft dysfunction, and chronic lung allograft dysfunction (CLAD) in the form of bronchiolitis obliterative syndrome (BOS). Regulatory T cell (Treg) suppresses effector cells and clinical studies have demonstrated that Treg levels are altered in transplanted lung during BOS progression as compared to normal lung. Here, we discuss levels of Tregs/FOXP3 gene expression as a crucial prognostic biomarker of lung functions during CLAD progression in clinical lung transplant recipients. The review will also discuss Treg mediated immune tolerance, tissue repair, and therapeutic strategies for achieving in-vivo Treg expansion, which will be a potential therapeutic option to reduce inflammation-mediated graft injuries, taper the toxic side effects of ongoing immunosuppressants, and improve lung transplant survival rates.
Virulence traits and novel drug delivery strategies for mucormycosis post-COVID-19: a comprehensive review
Authors: Faiyazuddin Md. , Sophia A. , Ashique Sumel , Gholap Amol D. , Gowri S. , Mohanto Sourav , Karthikeyan C. , Nag Sagnik , Hussain Arif , Akhtar Mohammad Shabib , Bakht Md. Afroz , Ahmed Mohammed Gulzar , Rustagi Sarvesh , Rodriguez-Morales Alfonso J. , Salas-Matta Luis Andres , Mohanty Aroop , Bonilla-Aldana D. Katterine , Sah Ranjit
Published: September 2023

The outbreak of a fatal black fungus infection after the resurgence of the cadaverous COVID-19 has exhorted scientists worldwide to develop a nutshell by repurposing or designing new formulations to address the crisis. Patients expressing COVID-19 are more susceptible to Mucormycosis (MCR) and thus fall easy prey to decease accounting for this global threat. Their mortality rates range around 32-70% depending on the organs affected and grow even higher despite the treatment. The many contemporary recommendations strongly advise using liposomal amphotericin B and surgery as first-line therapy whenever practicable. MCR is a dangerous infection that requires an antifungal drug administration on appropriate prescription, typically one of the following: Amphotericin B, Posaconazole, or Isavuconazole since the fungi that cause MCR are resistant to other medications like fluconazole, voriconazole, and echinocandins. Amphotericin B and Posaconazole are administered through veins (intravenously), and isavuconazole by mouth (orally). From last several years so many compounds are developed against invasive fungal disease but only few of them are able to induce effective treatment against the micorals. Adjuvant medicines, more particularly, are difficult to assess without prospective randomized controlled investigations, which are challenging to conduct given the lower incidence and higher mortality from Mucormycosis. The present analysis provides insight into pathogenesis, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, underlying fungal virulence, and growth mechanisms. In addition, current therapy for MCR in Post Covid-19 individuals includes conventional and novel nano-based advanced management systems for procuring against deadly fungal infection. The study urges involving nanomedicine to prevent fungal growth at the commencement of infection, delay the progression, and mitigate fatality risk.
Effect of external beam radiation therapy versus transcatheter arterial chemoembolization for non-diffuse hepatocellular carcinoma (≥ 5 cm): a multicenter experience over a ten-year period
Authors: Su Ke , Wang Fei , Li Xueting , Chi Hao , Zhang Jianwen , He Kun , Wang Zhaoyang , Wen Lianbin , Song Yanqiong , Chen Jiali , Wu Zhenying , Jiang Yi , Li Han , Gu Tao , Wang Chenjie , Li Yaqi , Liu Mengxiang , Guo Qulian , Xu Ke , Guo Lu , Han Yunwei
Published: September 2023

Background

The optimal local treatment for HCC with tumor diameter ≥ 5 cm is not well established. This research evaluated the effectiveness of external beam radiation therapy (EBRT) versus transcatheter arterial chemoembolization (TACE) for HCC with tumor diameter ≥ 5 cm.

Methods

A total of 1210 HCC patients were enrolled in this study, including 302 and 908 patients that received EBRT and TACE, respectively. Propensity score matching (PSM) was used to identify patient pairs with similar baseline characteristics. Overall survival (OS) was the primary study endpoint.

Results

We identified 428 patients using 1:1 PSM for survival comparison. Compared with the TACE group, the EBRT group had a significantly longer median OS (mOS) before (14.9 vs. 12.3 months, p = 0.0085) and after (16.8 vs. 11.4 months, p = 0.0026) matching. In the subgroup analysis, compared with the TACE group, the EBRT group had a significantly longer mOS for HCC with tumor diameters of 5-7 cm (34.1 vs. 14.3 months, p = 0.04) and 7-10 cm (34.4 vs. 10 months, p = 0.00065), whereas for HCC with tumor diameters ≥ 10 cm, no significant difference in mOS was observed (11.2 vs. 11.2 months, p = 0.83). In addition, the multivariable Cox analysis showed that Child-A, alkaline phosphatase < 125 U/L, and EBRT were independent prognostic indicators for longer survival.

Conclusion

EBRT is more effective than TACE as the primary local treatment for HCC with tumor diameter ≥ 5 cm, especially for HCC with tumor diameter of 5-10 cm.
Hybrid quantum-classical convolutional neural network for phytoplankton classification
Authors: Shi Shangshang , Wang Zhimin , Shang Ruimin , Li Yanan , Li Jiaxin , Zhong Guoqiang , Gu Yongjian
Published: September 2023

The taxonomic composition and abundance of phytoplankton have a direct impact on marine ecosystem dynamics and global environment change. Phytoplankton classification is crucial for phytoplankton analysis, but it is challenging due to their large quantity and small size. Machine learning is the primary method for automatically performing phytoplankton image classification. As large-scale research on marine phytoplankton generates overwhelming amounts of data, more powerful computational resources are required for the success of machine learning methods. Recently, quantum machine learning has emerged as a potential solution for large-scale data processing by harnessing the exponentially computational power of quantum computers. Here, for the first time, we demonstrate the feasibility of using quantum deep neural networks for phytoplankton classification. Hybrid quantum-classical convolutional and residual neural networks are developed based on the classical architectures. These models strike a balance between the limited function of current quantum devices and the large size of phytoplankton images, making it possible to perform phytoplankton classification on near-term quantum computers. Our quantum models demonstrate superior performance compared to their classical counterparts, exhibiting faster convergence, higher classification accuracy and lower accuracy fluctuation. The present quantum models are versatile and can be applied to various tasks of image classification in the field of marine science.
Differences and significance of peripheral blood interleukin-6 expression between patients with granulomatous lobular mastitis and those with benign breast tumors
Authors: Zhou Yue , Wu Jingjing , Ma Lina , Wang Bing , Meng Tian , Chen Hongfeng , Ye Meina
Published: September 2023

Objective

It is unclear whether the mechanism of the interleukin (IL)-6 signaling pathway is similar between granulomatous lobular mastitis (GLM) and benign breast tumors. This study aimed to explore the differences and significance of peripheral blood IL-6 and related cytokines, routine blood test results, and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels between patients with GLM and benign breast tumors.

Methods

Seventy-three inpatients with GLM who underwent surgery and 60 patients with benign breast tumors diagnosed based on pathological findings between November 2022 and May 2023 were included. The white blood cell (WBC) and neutrophil (NEU) counts were determined using an automatic blood cell analyzer, the CRP level was determined by an immunoturbidimetric assay, and serum IL-6 and related cytokine levels were determined by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The WBC, NEU, and CRP values in patients with GLM were significantly higher than those in patients with benign breast tumors (P < 0.01). Serum IL-6 levels were significantly higher in patients with GLM than in those with benign breast tumors (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in the serum concentrations of IL-1β, IL-7, and interferon (IFN)-γ between patients with GLM and those with benign breast tumors (P > 0.05), but the tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α level was higher in patients with GLM than in those with benign breast tumors (P < 0.01). In patients with GLM, the Pearson correlation analysis showed that the IL-6 level was positively correlated with NEU, NEU%, CRP, IL-17, and TNF-α values (P < 0.01). Additionally, the IL-6 level was weakly positively correlated with WBC and IFN-γ values. Conversely, in patients with benign breast tumors, the IL-6 level was not significantly correlated with the aforementioned indicators in routine blood tests but was positively correlated with IL-17, IFN-γ, and TNF-α values (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

IL-6, NEU, NEU%, and CRP values were significantly elevated in patients with GLM compared to those with benign breast tumors, indicating that IL-6 plays an important role in the development and onset of GLM. The correlation between these cytokines and the development and progression of benign breast tumors needs to be further explored, as cytokines such as IL-6 may provide effective markers for the treatment of GLM.
Pangenome-level analysis of nucleoid-associated proteins in the Acidithiobacillia class: insights into their functional roles in mobile genetic elements biology
Authors: Beard Simón , Moya-Beltrán Ana , Silva-García Danitza , Valenzuela Cesar , Pérez-Acle Tomás , Loyola Alejandra , Quatrini Raquel
Published: September 2023

Mobile genetic elements (MGEs) are relevant agents in bacterial adaptation and evolutionary diversification. Stable appropriation of these DNA elements depends on host factors, among which are the nucleoid-associated proteins (NAPs). NAPs are highly abundant proteins that bind and bend DNA, altering its topology and folding, thus affecting all known cellular DNA processes from replication to expression. Even though NAP coding genes are found in most prokaryotic genomes, their functions in host chromosome biology and xenogeneic silencing are only known for a few NAP families. Less is known about the occurrence, abundance, and roles of MGE-encoded NAPs in foreign elements establishment and mobility. In this study, we used a combination of comparative genomics and phylogenetic strategies to gain insights into the diversity, distribution, and functional roles of NAPs within the class Acidithiobacillia with a special focus on their role in MGE biology. Acidithiobacillia class members are aerobic, chemolithoautotrophic, acidophilic sulfur-oxidizers, encompassing substantial genotypic diversity attributable to MGEs. Our search for NAP protein families (PFs) in more than 90 genomes of the different species that conform the class, revealed the presence of 1,197 proteins pertaining to 12 different NAP families, with differential occurrence and conservation across species. Pangenome-level analysis revealed 6 core NAP PFs that were highly conserved across the class, some of which also existed as variant forms of scattered occurrence, in addition to NAPs of taxa-restricted distribution. Core NAPs identified are reckoned as essential based on the conservation of genomic context and phylogenetic signals. In turn, various highly diversified NAPs pertaining to the flexible gene complement of the class, were found to be encoded in known plasmids or, larger integrated MGEs or, present in genomic loci associated with MGE-hallmark genes, pointing to their role in the stabilization/maintenance of these elements in strains and species with larger genomes. Both core and flexible NAPs identified proved valuable as markers, the former accurately recapitulating the phylogeny of the class, and the later, as seed in the bioinformatic identification of novel episomal and integrated mobile elements.