bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrostatic brakes enable individual joint control of underactuated, highly articulated robots
Authors: Lancaster Patrick , Mavrogiannis Christoforos , Srinivasa Siddhartha , Smith Joshua R.
Published: June 2024

Highly articulated organisms serve as blueprints for incredibly dexterous mechanisms, but building similarly capable robotic counterparts has been hindered by the difficulties of developing electromechanical actuators with both the high strength and compactness of biological muscle. We develop a stackable electrostatic brake that has comparable specific tension and weight to that of muscles and integrate it into a robotic joint. High degree-of-freedom mechanisms composed of such electrostatic brake enabled joints can then employ established control algorithms to achieve hybrid motor-brake actuated dexterous manipulation. Specifically, our joint design enables a ten degree-of-freedom robot equipped with only one motor to manipulate multiple objects simultaneously. We also show that the use of brakes allows a two-fingered robot to perform in-hand re-positioning of an object 45% more quickly and with 53% lower positioning error than without brakes. Relative to fully actuated robots, robots equipped with such electrostatic brakes will have lower weight, volume, and power consumption yet retain the ability to reach arbitrary joint configurations.
Pulmonary blastoma with a good prognosis: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Liu Qingru , Li Fengchao , Wang Lulu , Lv Feng , Yin Qianqian , Liu Guangzhen , Chen Wen
Published: June 2024

Pulmonary blastoma (PB) is a rare, highly malignant tumor prone to distant metastasis and recurrence, and the prognosis of these patients is often poor. We report a case of metastatic PB with a good prognosis with the aim of providing data to support a clinical diagnosis and treatment. In December 2015, a 43-year-old male patient was admitted to our hospital because of a cough and blood-stained sputum. Positron emission-computed tomography showed massive high-density imaging in the lower lobe of the right lung, with a maximum cross-section of 76 × 58 mm. Thoracoscopic-assisted right lower lobectomy with lymph node dissection was performed. After 1 month, computed tomography showed a high possibility of metastasis. The patient then received docetaxel and cisplatin chemotherapy for a total of six courses. After chemotherapy, enhanced computed tomography showed considerable absorption of pleural effusion, and a left lobe pulmonary nodule was not detected. The postoperative pathological diagnosis was PB, and epithelial and mesenchymal differentiation components were observed. The patient continued to visit the hospital regularly for re-examination and imaging examinations. Currently, no signs of recurrence or distant metastasis have been detected.
Aircraft Ground Taxiing Deduction and Conflict Early Warning Method Based on Control Command Information
Authors: Zhuge Jingchang , Liang Huiyuan , Zhang Yiming , Li Shichao , Yang Xinyu , Wu Jun
Published: June 2024

Aircraft taxiing conflict is a threat to the safety of airport operations, mainly owing to human error in control command information. To solve this problem, an aircraft taxiing deduction and conflict early warning method based on control order information is proposed. Our method does not require additional equipment or operating costs, and is completely based on historical data and control information. To detect conflicts with other taxiing aircraft when an aircraft taxis according to commands, it can infer the future route and calculate the probability of conflict with other taxiing aircraft. Validation of the method was conducted using real-world airport taxi data. The results show that the method can effectively predict the aircraft taxiing process and provide an early warning of possible conflicts. Decision support systems for airport operations can benefit from this method.
Perspective on Emerging Micronutrient Deficiencies in Latin America and the Caribbean
Authors: Solomons Noel W.
Published: June 2024

The moral imperative of public health systems is to maximize the health and welfare of the population to the extent possible. Constraints often include a lack of resources, political will, popular acceptance, or an acceptable safety margin. Major agencies have established iron, iodine, and vitamin A as the principal elements for micronutrients, with folate and zinc on the second plane. As the armamentarium of interventions to favor micronutrient nutrition, for example, preventive health measures, dietary improvement, forms of fortification, and nutrient supplements, is offered in public health policy. The utility of their merger with other nutrients, emergent nutrients, has been considered. The Latin America and Caribbean Region has unique characteristics. The scientific and epidemiology considerations for action in the Region’s health concern on 4 emergent nutrient deficiencies of public health—vitamins D and E, essential fatty acids, and choline—are reviewed.
Exercise: Just What the Doctor Ordered, But Why? Elucidating Mechanisms for Women’s Increased High-Density Lipoprotein Benefit From Exercise and for the Health ABC Study
Authors: Bernier Rachel A. , Sundermann Erin E. , Edland Steven D. , Deters Kacie D. , Shepherd Alyx L. , Clark Alexandra L. , Shiroma Eric J. , Banks Sarah J.
Published: June 2024

High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is protective against cardiovascular disease. Exercise can increase HDL concentration, and some evidence suggests that this effect occurs more strongly in women than in men. Both HDL and exercise are associated with inflammation. We hypothesized a sex-by-exercise interaction on HDL level, whereby women would benefit from exercise more strongly than men, and tumor necrosis factor alpha and serum soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor-2 would mediate this relationship. This study included 2,957 older adult participants (1,520 women; 41% Black, 59% White; 73.6-years-old) from the Health, Aging, and Body Composition study. Regression models revealed a positive exercise-HDL relationship in women only (sex-by-exercise interaction: β = 0.09, p = .013; exercise on HDL in women: β = 0.07, p = .015), mediated by TNFα (axb = 0.15; CI: 0.01, 0.30), suggesting that exercise may increase HDL levels in women through reduced inflammation. Given that vascular risk contributes to Alzheimer’s disease risk, findings have implications for sex differences in AD risk factors.
Current Applications of PET/MR: Part II: Clinical Applications II
Authors: Kohan Andres , Hanneman Kate , Mirshahvalad Seyed Ali , Afaq Asim , Mallak Nadine , Metser Ur , Veit-Haibach Patrick
Published: June 2024

Due to the major improvements in the hardware and image reconstruction algorithms, positron emission tomography/magnetic resonance imaging (PET/MR) is now a reliable state-of-the-art hybrid modality in medical practice. Currently, it can provide a broad range of advantages in preclinical and clinical imaging compared to single-modality imaging. In the second part of this review, we discussed the further clinical applications of PET/MR. In the chest, PET/MR has particular potential in the oncology setting, especially when utilizing ultrashort/zero echo time MR sequences. Furthermore, cardiac PET/MR can provide reliable information in evaluating myocardial inflammation, cardiac amyloidosis, myocardial perfusion, myocardial viability, atherosclerotic plaque, and cardiac masses. In gastrointestinal and hepato-pancreato-biliary malignancies, PET/MR is able to precisely detect metastases to the liver, being superior over the other imaging modalities. In genitourinary and gynaecology applications, PET/MR is a comprehensive diagnostic method, especially in prostate, endometrial, and cervical cancers. Its simultaneous acquisition has been shown to outperform other imaging techniques for the detection of pelvic nodal metastases and is also a reliable modality in radiation planning. Lastly, in haematologic malignancies, PET/MR can significantly enhance lymphoma diagnosis, particularly in detecting extra-nodal involvement. It can also comprehensively assess treatment-induced changes. Furthermore, PET/MR may soon become a routine in multiple myeloma management, being a one-stop shop for evaluating bone, bone marrow, and soft tissues.
Current Evidence: Seizures in Extremely Low Gestational Age Newborns (ELGANs)
Authors: Rana Mandeep , Vega Gonzales-Portillo Juan Diego , Hahn Cecil , Dutt Monideep , Sanchez-Fernandez Ivan , Jonas Rinat , Douglass Laurie , Torres Alcy R.
Published: June 2024

Extremely low gestational age newborns (ELGANs) are born at or below 28 weeks of gestational age. Despite improved obstetric care, the incidence of preterm birth continues to rise in advanced countries. Preterm birth remains a major cause of infant mortality, and for infants who survive, neonatal seizures are a significant predictor of later neurologic morbidity. However, little is known about risk factors for neonatal seizures in ELGANs. Understanding the association between neonatal seizures and the development of other neurologic disorders is important given the increasing prevalence of ELGANs. Identifying risk factors that contribute to the development of neonatal seizures in ELGANs may offer insights into novel mechanisms of epileptogenesis in the developing brain and improvements in the prevention or treatment of seizures in preterm infants, including ELGANs. In this literature review, we outline the limitations of epidemiologic studies of neonatal seizures in ELGANs and discuss risk factors for neonatal seizures.
An Exploratory Study of Body Measurement Prediction Using Machine Learning and 3D Body Scans
Authors: Wu Yingying , Liu Xuebo , Morris Kristen D. , Lu Shufang , Wu Hongyu
Published: June 2024

Obtaining accurate body measurements is a critical step when designing products to fit the human body. Compared to traditional manual methods, 3D body scanning has fundamentally enhanced the accessibility of the body, however, the datasets extracted from 3D body scans often have missing values. Recently, the applications of data-driven machine learning (ML) methods in anthropometrics studies and clothing-related work have been increasing. However, there has been limited research on exploring if missing data and difficult-to-extract measurements from 3D scans could be predicted accurately and efficiently by using ML methods. Therefore, this exploratory study investigates the potential use of four mainstream ML methods in improving the usefulness of a 3D body scan dataset.
The Humanbecoming Concept Inventing Model: Feeling Betrayed
Authors: Kabigting Edwin-Nikko R.
Published: June 2024

The author of this paper discusses the phenomenon of feeling betrayed theoretically and conceptually. Through the use of the humanbecoming concept inventing model, the author illuminates the now-truth of feeling betrayed as agonizing anguish arising with the shattered trust of communion-aloneness. At the level of science, feeling betrayed was declared as imaging the powering of connecting-separating as an ingenuous proclamation with the scholar’s chosen artform.
Nursing Knowledge for Advanced Practice Nursing
Authors: Doe Mi Jin
Published: June 2024

The author introduces the review of Susan M. Denisco’s (2024) 5th edition of Advanced Practice Nursing: Essential Knowledge for the Profession. The evolving changes in nursing education for advanced practice nursing re-affirm the importance of theory-based nursing knowledge that offers distinctive disciplinary perspectives and serves as the foundation of nursing research and practice as well.
Entropy analysis of a non-Darcian mixed convective flow of Cu-Al2O3-based hybrid nanofluid with thermal dispersioneffect
Authors: Pandey Ashutosh , Mishra Manoj K
Published: June 2024

Entropy measures the disorderness or randomness of the systems. It may affect the effectiveness and performance of the thermal systems. That is why entropy analysis is one of the trending research topic in modern era of society. The motive of this article is to present a comprehensive analysis of entropy generation and thermal dispersion effect on mixed convective flow of (Cu-Al2O3)/(H2O) based hybrid nanofluid along a plate submerged in a non-Darcy porous medium. The mathematical model describing the flow problem encompasses a system of partial differential equation, resulting from the single-phase flow model of the nanofluid combined with the Darcy-Forchheimer expression for porous medium flow. The dimensional system of partial differential equation is transformed into a non-dimensional nonlinear ordinary differential system through a similarity transformations and subsequently, the system is solved using the BVP4C module in MATLAB. The study analyzes the flow variables and entropy generation with respect to the parameters inherent in the problem. The findings suggests that, the increasing thermal dispersion effects enhances the Heat transfer rate of the hybrid nanofluid. Further, it is reported that the entropy generation in hybrid nanofluid is lower than the mono nanofluid which makes the hybrid nanofluid a better choice for entropy management in the thermal systems. The outcome of the research has practical implications in various real-life applications, such as crude oil production, oil flow filtration, electronic cooling equipment, etc.
Work engagement among nurses in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review
Authors: Aydogdu Ana Luiza Ferreira
Published: June 2024

Background

Despite nurses receiving education on how to respond during crises, the stress and demands arising from unprecedented situations, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, may affect their work engagement.

Aim

To appraise and synthesize studies examining work engagement among nurses in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

It is a systematic review in which three databases were searched. Critical appraisal tools and PRISMA guidelines were used. Content analysis was performed.

Ethical considerations

Ethical approval was not required for this systematic review.

Findings

A total of 21 studies were included. The results were classified into three categories: (1) levels and meanings of work engagement, (2) the relationship of work engagement with various factors, and (3) measures to enhance work engagement.

Conclusion

The review revealed that nurses’ work engagement varied from moderate to high. Factors such as education level and work schedule flexibility influenced their engagement. Positive associations were found between work engagement and job satisfaction, intention to stay, and organizational support, while stress and workload showed negative relationships. The crucial role of health policymakers, hospital administrators, and nurse managers in acting ethically, creating favorable working conditions and fostering nurses’ work engagement was emphasized.
Comparative Analysis of Gold,  Bitcoin and Gold-backed Cryptocurrencies as Safe Havens During Global Crises: A Focus on G7 Stock Market and Banking Sector Indices
Authors: Gökgöz Halilibrahim , Afjal Mohd , Bejaoui Azza , Jeribi Ahmed
Published: June 2024

In this article, we attempt to analyze and compare the safe-haven features of gold, Bitcoin and gold-backed cryptocurrency against the stock and banking indices of G7 countries during the outbreak of adverse events. To do so, we examine dynamic relationships between different assets and we compute optimal hedge ratios for different couples using the corrected Asymmetric Dynamic Conditional Correlation-Exponential Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity and corrected Asymmetric Dynamic Conditional Correlation-Generalized Autoregressive Conditional Heteroscedasticity models. We clearly show that gold and gold-backed cryptocurrency maintain higher weights in optimal portfolios compared to Bitcoin. We also report that shocks due to unexpected events increasingly affect dynamic correlations, asset weights and hedge ratios. This underscores the need for regular demand for rebalancing the hedge positions and effective risk management. We thereafter show that the relationship between Bitcoin (gold-backed cryptocurrency) and G7 indices is highly affected by the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic. Such findings highlight the hedging and safe-haven features of different asset classes against stock markets. They could have insightful implications for investors who want to minimize investment risks and policymakers who are worried about the financial consequences of different unexpected events.
Luteolin Ameliorates Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease via Regulation of Hepatic Lipid Uptake, Autophagy, and Apoptosis in WD/CCl4-induced Mice
Authors: Hu Jingjing , Pang Dongyue , Tian Ning , Qin Rongyin
Published: June 2024

Background and Purpose

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a worldwide health problem with high prevalence and morbidity associated with obesity, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and dyslipidemia. Luteolin is a natural flavonoid with various activities. We aimed to investigate whether luteolin can alleviate NAFLD and its possible mechanism.

Materials and Methods

A mouse model with NAFLD was induced by Western diet (WD) and carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) injection. Twenty-four mice were distributed into three groups randomly: Normal diet group (CON, n = 8), NAFLD group (NAF, n = 8), and luteolin group (LUT, n = 8). NAFLD model was induced by feeding mice in NAF and LUT groups with WD and injecting CCl4. CON group were fed with a normal diet in the same period. The LUT group was administered orally with luteolin (20 mg/kg) every day, starting from the 1st day of the 5th week for 8 weeks, while the CON group was treated with a vehicle. Throughout the experiment, body weight, lipid profile, glucose tolerance test, and the hepatic expressions of CD36/FABP1/LC3B/Bcl-2 were measured beside the histopathological examination.

Results

Luteolin treatment effectively prevents the body from weight gain in mice with NAFLD (NAF vs. LUT: 36.0 g vs. 32.4 g, p < 0.05). Serum total cholesterol and triglyceride levels are both significantly increased in the NAF group ( p < 0.01) and reduced to some extent in the LUT group ( p < 0.05). Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) test results show that luteolin could improve the impaired glucose tolerance and downregulate the elevated fasting blood glucose in mice with NAFLD ( p < 0.05). Histopathological results demonstrate luteolin reduces hepatic steatosis and hepatic fibrosis in NAFLD mice. The possible mechanisms may include that luteolin decreases hepatic CD36 and FABP1 expression, and increases levels of autophagy marker LC3B and antiapoptotic protein Bcl-2.

Conclusion

Luteolin could reduce hepatic steatosis and fibrosis, hyperglycemia, body weight, and serum lipid levels in NAFLD mice, which exhibits huge potential in the treatment of metabolic disorders related to NAFLD.
Association of the @ctivehip tele-rehabilitation with the fear of falling of older adults with hip fracture and their family caregivers: Secondary analysis of a non-randomised controlled trial
Authors: Prieto-Moreno Rafael , Molina-García Pablo , Ortiz-Piña Mariana , Mora-Traverso Marta , Estévez-López Fernando , Martín-Matillas Miguel , Ariza-Vega Patrocinio
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Osteoporotic hip fracture is a major health problem. Falls, the primary cause, might lead to a persistent fear of falling (FoF) among older adults, affecting their daily activities and rehabilitation. While in-person interventions exist, limited research is available on the effects of tele-rehabilitation on the FoF after a hip fracture. Thus, this study aims to test the association of the @ctivehip tele-rehabilitation programme on reducing the levels of FoF experienced by both older adults with hip fracture and their family caregivers.

Methods

A non-randomised controlled trial (ClinicalTrials.gov; Identifier: NCT02968589) that compared a webpage-based tele-rehabilitation (@ctivehip) against usual care. Fear of falling was assessed using the Short Falls Efficacy Scale-International. Patients’ functional status was evaluated using the Functional Independence Measure. Physical performance was assessed by the Timed Up and Go test and Short Physical Performance Battery. We conducted a per-protocol analysis as the primary outcome, and an intention-to-treat approach as secondary analysis.

Results

A total of 71 patients with hip fracture (78.75 ± 6.12 years, 75% women) and their family caregivers participated. Participants in the intervention showed a higher decrease in FoF in comparison to those in the usual care (0.5 Cohen's d; p = 0.042). The reduction in FoF resulting from participation in the tele-rehabilitation programme was mediated by improvements in functional status by 79%. The @ctivehip programme did not decrease FoF of family caregivers.

Discussion

@ctivehip is associated with a reduction of the FoF in older adults with hip fractures, but not in their family caregivers, with the reduction being mostly explained by improvements in the patients’ functional status. Although the intervention seems promising, it should not be applied in clinical settings until confirmed by appropriate-designed randomised clinical trials.
Examining trust in the police and justice system among ethnic minority members: The case of Moroccan- and Turkish-Dutch citizens in the Netherlands
Authors: Meeusen Cecil , de Koster Willem , van der Waal Jeroen , Coninck David De
Published: June 2024

While extant studies indicate that ethnic minority citizens report relatively low levels of trust in the police and justice system, it is less clear how that trust can be explained. Thanks to its purposive oversampling of Dutch citizens with Turkish and Moroccan origins and nested structure (individuals clustered within neighbourhoods), the Netherlands Longitudinal Lifecourse Study has enabled us to scrutinise which of the following factors contribute to their trust in the police and justice system: (a) being in a weak socioeconomic position; (b) individual social capital; (c) (perceiving to be) living in underprivileged neighbourhoods characterised by disorder and low social capital; and (d) perceived discrimination. Multilevel structural equation modelling, allowing us to untangle individual perceptions from intersubjective neighbourhood-level conditions, reveals that Moroccan-Dutch citizens report less trust than Turkish-Dutch citizens. We find that perceived neighbourhood disorder and perceived discrimination link to lower trust, while traditional explanations such as socioeconomic position and social capital are far less relevant. We discuss our findings’ implications for ongoing debates on, amongst others, the role of ethnicity and neighbourhood conditions in trust in the police and justice system.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation Paired With Upper Extremity Rehabilitation for Chronic Ischemic Stroke: Contribution of Dosage Parameters
Authors: Lin Shiyu , Rodriguez Chelsea O. , Wolf Steven L.
Published: June 2024

Background

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) combined with rehabilitation is a Food and Drug Administration approved intervention for moderate to severe upper extremity deficits in chronic ischemic stroke patients. Previous studies demonstrated that VNS improves upper extremity motor impairments, using the Fugl Meyer Assessment of Upper Extremity (FMA-UE); however, delineating where these improvements occur, and the role of VNS dosage parameters were not reported.

Objective

This study explored the relationship between dosing (time over which task repetitions were executed and number of VNS stimulations) and changes within proximal and distal components of the FMA-UE.

Methods

Participants underwent VNS implantation, with 1 group receiving VNS paired with rehabilitation (Active VNS) and the other group receiving rehabilitation with sham stimulation (Controls). Both groups received 6 weeks of in-clinic therapy followed by a 90-day at-home, self-rehabilitation program. Participants who completed at least 12 of 18 in-clinic sessions were included in the analyses (n = l06). Pearson correlations and analysis of covariance were used to investigate the relationship between dosing and FMA-UE outcome change along with the effect of covariates including baseline severity, time since stroke, age, and paretic side.

Results

Compared to Controls, active VNS favorably influenced distal function with sustained improvement after the home program. Significant improvements were observed in only distal components (FMdist) at both post day-1 (1.80 points, 95% Cl [0.85, 2.73], P < .001) and post-day 90 (1.62 points, 95% CI [0.45, 2.80], P < .007).

Conclusions

VNS paired with rehabilitation resulted in significant improvements in wrist and hand impairment compared to Controls, despite similar in-clinic dosing across both groups. NCT03131960
Association Between Socioeconomic Status and Erectile Dysfunction in Japanese Patients With Ulcerative Colitis: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Furukawa Shinya , Miyake Teruki , Yoshida Osamu , Shiraishi Kana , Tange Kazuhiro , Hashimoto Yu , Yagi Sen , Kitahata Shogo , Ninomiya Tomoyuki , Hanayama Masakazu , Suzuki Seiyuu , Shibata Naozumi , Murakami Hidehiro , Ohashi Katsuhisa , Tomida Hideomi , Yamamoto Yasunori , Takeshita Eiji , Ikeda Yoshio , Hiasa Yoichi
Published: June 2024

Socioeconomic status is a risk factor for poor disease prognosis. No studies of patients with ulcerative colitis (UC) have investigated the association between socioeconomic status and erectile dysfunction (ED), although UC is independently positively associated with ED. Therefore, the purpose of this survey to evaluate this issue in Japanese patients with UC. The study enrolled 165 patients with UC. Education status (low, middle, high) and household income (low, middle, high) were classified in three groups using self-administered surveys. The information regarding the Sexual Health Inventory for Men (SHIM) was obtained using self-administered questionnaires. The definition of mild to moderate or severe ED and severe ED was SHIM score <17 and SHIM score <8, respectively. The prevalence of mild to moderate or severe ED and severe ED was 64.9% and 47.9%, respectively. In crude analysis, household income was inversely associated with mild to moderate or severe ED and severe ED. After adjustment for age, current drinking, current smoking, exercise habit, body mass index, mucosal healing, and duration of UC, high household income was independently and inversely associated with mild to moderate or severe ED (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 0.23, 95% confidence interval [CI] [0.05, 0.93], p for trend = .038) and severe ED (adjusted OR 0.26, 95% CI [0.07, 0.85], p for trend = .024). In contrast, no association between education status and ED was found. In conclusion, household income was independently and inversely associated with ED in Japanese UC patients.
Between urgency and data quality: assessing the FAIRness of data in social science research on the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Batzdorfer Veronika , Zenk-Möltgen Wolfgang , Young Laura , Katsanidou Alexia , Breuer Johannes , Bishop Libby
Published: June 2024

Balancing speed and quality during crises pose challenges for ensuring the value and utility of data in social science research. The COVID-19 pandemic in particular underscores the need for high-quality data and rapid dissemination. Given the importance of behavioural measures and compliance with measures to contain the pandemic, social science research has played a key role in policymaking during this global crisis. This study addresses two key research questions: How FAIR ( findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable) are social science data on the COVID-19 pandemic? Which study features are related to the level of FAIRness scores of datasets?

We assess the FAIRness of n = 1131 articles, retrieved through a keyword search in the Web of Science database, employing both automated and manual coding methods. Our study inclusion criteria encompass empirical studies on the COVID-19 pandemic published between 2019 and 2023 with a social science focus and explicit reference to the underlying dataset(s). Our analysis of n = 45 datasets reveals substantial differences in FAIRness for different types of research on the COVID-19 pandemic. The overall FAIRness of data is acceptable, although particularly Reusability scores fall short, in both the manual and the automatic assessment. Further, articles explicitly linked to the Social Science concept in the OpenAlex database exhibit a higher mean overall FAIRness value. Based on these results, we derive recommendations for balancing ethical obligations and the potential tradeoff between speed and data (sharing) quality in social-scientific crisis research.
Evaluation of the Anti-diabetic Activity of Purified Compounds of Ferula assafoetida by in vitro and in silico Methods
Authors: Erfani Fatemeh , Farhadi Faegheh , Iranshahi Mehrdad , Boozari Motahareh
Published: June 2024

Objective

Postprandial hyperglycemia is considered an early sign of diabetes. Enzyme inhibitors, such as α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibitors, are currently being studied as potential drugs for preventing postprandial hyperglycemia.

Methods

In this study, we investigated the effects of four purified 7-hydroxycoumarine derivatives from Ferula assafoetida: umbelliprenin, farnesiferol A, farnesiferol C, and samarcandin. We evaluated cell toxicity using the MTT method and also examined glucose uptake and inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase enzymes in vitro. Additionally, we conducted a molecular docking study to investigate the mechanism of enzyme inhibition.

Results

The cell toxicity of the terpenoid coumarin derivatives (umbelliprenin, farnesiferol A, farnesiferol C, and samarcandin) on HepG2 cells was found to be approximately 28 to 37 µg/ml. The glucose uptake assay showed that these compounds (at a concentration of 25 µg/ml) were able to increase glucose consumption by HepG2 cells to a level comparable to that of the positive control (metformin at 50 µg/ml). Furthermore, umbelliprenin significantly inhibited the activity of α-amylase and α-glucosidase (by 35.07% and 4.98%, respectively). Molecular docking results indicated that umbelliprenin, with a farnesyl chain, had a more potent inhibitory effect.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that umbelliprenin may be a valuable compound for controlling postprandial hyperglycemia and diabetes. However, further in vivo studies and clinical trials are necessary to validate these effects. While this research offers potential for the development of more effective compounds with coumarin structures, further studies are needed to confirm these findings.
Social media, youth and civil unrest in India: A new rebel's dilemma
Authors: Roy Swetasree Ghosh
Published: June 2024

Social media has received tremendous attention as a tool of revolution since the Arab Spring. Current scholarship predicts that social media can be a threat to internal stability by aiding rebel recruitment and mobilizing them. This article expands this research agenda beyond the Middle East-North Africa region and authoritarian regimes and explains the dynamics of how social media affects contentious politics. Youth bulge is used here as an intervening variable between social media and conflict. Using mixed methods on a sample of 28 Indian states, four Union Territories and 200 educated youth, I find that the presence of educated youth using social media is not a clear threat. Online and offline surveys conducted on Indian youth show that they do not consider social media a useful “technology of revolution” for mobilizing support and thereby bringing about any meaningful change. At best, social media helps in gathering support at the local level like in a neighborhood brawl.
Variability Between Full-Length Lateral Radiographs and Standard Short Knee Radiographs When Evaluating Posterior Tibial Slope in Revision ACL Patients
Authors: Mansour Alfred A. , Steward Joshua , Warth Ryan J. , Haidar Layla A. , Aboulafia Alexis , Lowe Walter R.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Increased posterior tibial slope (PTS) has been identified as a risk factor for failure after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Correction of PTS may improve outcomes after revision ACL reconstruction. There are conflicting reports demonstrating the measurement of the PTS on standard short knee (SSK) radiographs versus full-length lateral (FLL) radiographs including the entire tibia.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To compare PTS measurements between SSK and FLL radiographs in patients who failed primary ACL reconstruction. It was hypothesized that there would be high variability between the SSK and FLL radiographic measurements.

Study Design:

Cohort study (diagnosis); Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The medial and lateral PTS were measured on the SSK and FLL radiographs of 33 patients with failed primary ACL reconstructions. All measurements were performed by 2 trained independent observers (A.A.M., J.S.), and inter- and intraobserver reliability were calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). Measurements recorded by the observer with the higher intraobserver ICC were used for comparison of the PTS on SSK versus FLL radiographs.

Results:

Both the inter- and the intraobserver reliability values of the PTS measurements were excellent. There was a significant difference in mean PTS on the medial plateau as measured on the SSK and FLL radiographs (11.2°± 5.3° vs 12.5°± 4.6°; P = .03), with the FLL radiographs demonstrating higher PTS. There was also a significant difference in the mean PTS on the lateral plateau as measured on SSK versus FLL radiographs (10.7°± 4.3° vs 12.2°± 4°, respectively; P = .01), with the FLL radiographs demonstrating higher PTS. Notably, 66.67% of the absolute measurements for PTS on the medial plateau differed by ≥2°, with variability as high as 8.5°.

Conclusion:

Results indicated that FLL and SSK radiographs are not interchangeable measurements for PTS associated with failed ACL reconstruction. Because FLL radiographs demonstrate less variability than SSK radiographs, we recommend obtaining them to evaluate these complex patients.
Exploring the Level of Self-Care Behavior, Motivation, and Self-Efficacy among Individuals With Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hani Salam Bani , Abu Sabra Mohammad A. , Alhalabi Marwa Nayef , Alomari Ahmad Emad , Abu Aqoulah Emran A.
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Hypertension is a serious public health issue. It is a significant but controllable factor in the emergence of cardiovascular disease. Controlling hypertension is a main target for individuals to prevent further illness.

Objective

This study aims to explore the level of self-care behaviors, motivation, and self-efficacy among individuals with hypertension.

Methods

A cross-sectional, descriptive, correlational design was used to recruit ( n = 121) participants utilizing the Hypertension Self-Care Profile (HTN-SCP) questionnaire.

Results

The analysis revealed that the mean score of self-care behavior was 49.7 ( SD = 10.0) out of 20–80, which indicates that they are likely to have good self-care behavior. The mean score of motivation for self-care was 59.7 ( SD = 11.8) out of 20–80, reflecting that individuals with hypertension have a good level of motivation for self-care, and the mean score of self-efficacy was 70.0 ( SD = 9.8) out of 20–80, which means that individuals with hypertension have a high level of self-efficacy. Also, there was a significant positive correlation between self-care behavior and motivation for self-care ( r = .527, p < .001), between motivation for self-care and self-efficacy ( r = .554, p < .001), and between self-efficacy and self-care behavior ( r = .572, p < .001).

Conclusion

The study revealed that Jordanian patients with hypertension have good self-care practices, motivation, and high self-efficacy. Patients should therefore be strongly recommended to be compliant with self-care practices. The government should prioritize hypertensive patients by making it easier for them to receive information about self-management practices to improve their quality of care.
Projecting traffic flows for road-based passenger transport in Europe for the analysis of climate impact
Authors: Thomsen Nina , Schulz Angelika
Published: June 2024

Road-based transport is a significant contributor to global transport emissions of greenhouse gases and local pollutants, thus contributing to the environmental impact of the mobility of people and goods. In order to develop strategies to mitigate this impact, it is necessary to build reliable emission inventories that include sector-specific emissions. Furthermore, the methods for creating these inventories should be applicable for forecasts and scenario calculations to facilitate the evaluation of pathways towards a more sustainable transport system. The study at hand proposes a model-based framework to predict travel demand and its spatial distribution for a bottom-up calculation of road transport emissions in Europe. With this framework, it is possible to calculate emissions based on the road network structure, traffic flows and vehicle types. In order to demonstrate the applicability of the framework for scenario calculations, it is applied to three exemplary scenarios where population data is modified. With the developed methodology, a tool for the large-scale assessment of emissions from road transport is provided, which is able to simulate the impact of socio-economic and economic changes on these emissions.
Multiomics analysis of platelet-rich plasma promoting biological performance of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Dai Pengxiu , Wu Yi , Gao Yaxin , Li Mengnan , Zhu Mingde , Xu Haojie , Feng Xiancheng , Jin Yaping , Zhang Xinke
Published: June 2024

Mesenchymal Stem Cells are ideal seed cells for tissue repair and cell therapy and have promising applications in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. Using Platelet-Rich Plasma as an adjuvant to create and improve the microenvironment for Mesenchymal Stem Cells growth can enhance the biological properties of Mesenchymal Stem Cells and improve the efficacy of cell therapy. However, the mechanism by which Platelet-Rich Plasma improves the biological performance of Mesenchymal Stem Cells is still unknown. In this study, by examining the effects of Platelet-Rich Plasma on the biological performance of Mesenchymal Stem Cells, combined with multiomics analysis (Transcriptomics, Proteomics and Metabolomics) and related tests, we analyzed the specific pathways, related mechanisms and metabolic pathways of Platelet-Rich Plasma to improve the biological performance of Mesenchymal Stem Cells. In an in vitro cell culture system, the biological performance of Mesenchymal Stem Cells was significantly improved after replacing Foetal Bovine Serum with Platelet-Rich Plasma, and the genes (ESM1, PDGFB, CLEC7A, CCR1 and ITGA6 et al.) related to cell proliferation, adhesion, growth, migration and signal transduction were significantly upregulated. Platelet-Rich Plasma can enhance the secretion function of MSC exosomes, significantly upregulate many proteins related to tissue repair, immune regulation and anti-infection, and enhance the repair effect of exosomes on skin injury. After replacing Foetal Bovine Serum with Platelet-Rich Plasma, Mesenchymal Stem Cells underwent metabolic reprogramming, the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acids and various signaling pathways were changed, the anabolic pathways of various proteins were enhanced. These results provide a theoretical and technical reference for optimizing the Mesenchymal Stem Cells culture system, improving the biological characteristics and clinical application effects of Mesenchymal Stem Cells.
Comparative and phylogenetic analysis of the complete chloroplast genomes of 10 Artemisia selengensis resources based on high-throughput sequencing
Authors: Wang Yuhang , Wei Qingying , Xue Tianyuan , He Sixiao , Fang Jiao , Zeng Changli
Published: June 2024

Background

Artemisia selengensis, classified within the genus Artemisia of the Asteraceae family, is a perennial herb recognized for its dual utility in culinary and medicinal domains. There are few studies on the chloroplast genome of A. selengensis, and the phylogeographic classification is vague, which makes phylogenetic analysis and evolutionary studies very difficult.

Results

The chloroplast genomes of 10 A. selengensis in this study were highly conserved in terms of gene content, gene order, and gene intron number. The genome lengths ranged from 151,148 to 151,257 bp and were typical of a quadripartite structure with a total GC content of approximately 37.5%. The chloroplast genomes of all species encode 133 genes, including 88 protein-coding genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 8 rRNA genes. Due to the contraction and expansion of the inverted repeats (IR), the overlap of ycf1 and ndhF genes occurred at the inverted repeats B (IRB) and short single copy sequence (SSC) boundaries. According to a codon use study, the frequent base in the chloroplast genome of A. selengensis’ third codon position was A/T. The number of SSR repeats was 42–44, most of which were single nucleotide A/T repeats. Sequence alignment analysis of the chloroplast genome showed that variable regions were mainly distributed in single copy regions, nucleotide diversity values of 0 to 0.009 were calculated by sliding window analysis, 8 mutation hotspot regions were detected, and coding regions were more conserved than non-coding regions. Analysis of non-synonymous substitution (Ka) and synonymous substitution (Ks) revealed that accD, rps12, petB, and atpF genes were affected by positive selection and no genes were affected by neutral selection. Based on the findings of the phylogenetic analysis, Artemisia selengensis was sister to the genus Artemisia Chrysanthemum and formed a monophyletic group with other Artemisia genera.

Conclusions

In this research, the present study systematically compared the chloroplast genomic features of A. selengensis and provided important information for the study of the chloroplast genome of A. selengensis and the evolutionary relationships among Asteraceae species.
Genome-wide characterization, functional analysis, and expression profiling of the Aux/IAA gene family in spinach
Authors: Imani Asl Erfan , Soorni Aboozar , Mehrabi Rahim
Published: June 2024

Background

The auxin/indole-3-acetic acid (Aux/IAA) gene family is a crucial element of the auxin signaling pathway, significantly influencing plant growth and development. Hence, we conducted a comprehensive investigation of Aux/IAAs gene family using the Sp75 and Monoe-Viroflay genomes in spinach.

Results

A total of 24 definitive Aux/IAA genes were identified, exhibiting diverse attributes in terms of amino acid length, molecular weight, and isoelectric points. This diversity underscores potential specific roles within the family, such as growth regulation and stress response. Structural analysis revealed significant variations in gene length and molecular weight. These variations indicate distinct roles within the Aux/IAA gene family. Chromosomal distribution analysis exhibited a dispersed pattern, with chromosomes 4 and 1 hosting the highest and lowest numbers of Aux/IAA genes, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis grouped the identified genes into distinct clades, revealing potential evolutionary relationships. Notably, the phylogenetic tree highlighted specific gene clusters suggesting shared genetic ancestry and potential functional synergies within spinach. Expression analysis under NAA treatment unveiled gene-specific and time-dependent responses, with certain genes exhibiting distinct temporal expression patterns. Specifically, SpoIAA5 displayed a substantial increase at 2 h post-NAA treatment, while SpoIAA7 and SpoIAA9 demonstrated continuous rises, peaking at the 4-hour time point.

Conclusions

These observations indicate a complex interplay of gene-specific and temporal regulation in response to auxin. Moreover, the comparison with other plant species emphasized both shared characteristics and unique features in Aux/IAA gene numbers, providing insights into the evolutionary dynamics of this gene family. This comprehensive characterization of Aux/IAA genes in spinach not only establishes the foundation for understanding their specific functions in spinach development but also provides a valuable resource for experimental validation and further exploration of their roles in the intricate network of auxin signaling pathways.
Integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analysis reveals the regulatory mechanisms of flavonoid and alkaloid biosynthesis in the new and old leaves of Murraya tetramera Huang
Authors: Zhou Tao , Xing Qinqin , Bu Jiahao , Han Wenjun , Shen Zhiguo
Published: June 2024

Background

Murraya tetramera Huang is a traditional Chinese woody medicine. Its leaves contain flavonoids, alkaloids, and other active compounds, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, as well as hypoglycemic and lipid-lowering effects, and anti-tumor effects. There are significant differences in the content of flavonoids and alkaloids in leaves during different growth cycles, but the synthesis mechanism is still unclear.

Results

In April 2021, new leaves (one month old) and old leaves (one and a half years old) of M. tetramera were used as experimental materials to systematically analyze the changes in differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) with transcriptomics and metabolomics technology. This was done to identify the signaling pathways of flavonoid and alkaloid synthesis. The results showed that the contents of total alkaloids and flavonoids in old leaves were significantly higher than those in new leaves. Thirteen flavonoid compounds, three isoflavone compounds, and nineteen alkaloid compounds were identified, and 125 and 48 DEGs related to flavonoid and alkaloid synthesis were found, respectively. By constructing the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) network of DEGs and DAMs, it was shown that the molecular mechanism of flavonoid biosynthesis in M. tetramera mainly focuses on the “flavonoid biosynthetic pathway” and the “flavonoid and flavonol biosynthetic pathway”. Among them, p-Coumaryl alcohol, Sinapyl alcohol, Phloretin, and Isoquercitrin were significantly accumulated in old leaves, the up-regulated expression of CCR (cinnamoyl-CoA reductase) might promote the accumulation of p-Coumaryl alcohol, upregulation of F5H (ferulate-5-hydroxylase) might promote Sinapyl alcohol accumulation. Alkaloids, including indole alkaloids, pyridine alkaloids, imidazole alkaloids, and quinoline alkaloids, were significantly accumulated in old leaves, and a total of 29 genes were associated with these substances.

Conclusions

These data are helpful to better understand the biosynthesis of flavonoids and alkaloids in M. tetramera and provide a scientific basis for the development of medicinal components in M. tetramera.