bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life and Drug Therapy Management in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: Surendran Anusree , Nadar Raksha Rathnakar , Afeefa Aysha , Shaji Bipin , Rai Supriya , Holla Akshay , Joel Juno Jerold
Published: June 2023

Background
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common metabolic disorder that adversely affects the quality of life (QoL) of women of reproductive age. PCOS symptoms can be actively controlled with medications and lifestyle modifications. The present study aims to assess the signs and symptoms of QoL and drug therapy management.
Methods
A prospective descriptive study was conducted among 137 patients for a duration of 6 months. A patient data collection form was documented, and details regarding the treatment given to the patients were noted. To determine if PCOS had a negative impact on QoL, PCOSQ was administered to the patients. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS (version.20.0)
Results
A total of 137 patients were included in the study, the majority of whom were in the age group of 21–25 years, 73 (53.3%), and had a normal BMI, 48 (35%). Menstrual cramps were prevalent in 87.59% of the patients, making it the most common symptom. Cyproterone and Ethinyl Estradiol 33 (15.50%) were the most commonly used drugs among these patients. PCOSQ results obtained from our study indicated that menstrual problems were the most affected domain. Few other comparisons, such as HRQoL domain scores with age and BMI, determined that there was a significant difference between the age group and QoL domains. Comparison of HRQoL with clinical presentations indicated that there was a negative impact on all five domains with weight and weakness.
Conclusion
The study concluded that there was a positive association of QoL deterioration with worsening signs and symptoms.
A New Treatment for Breast Cancer using Oral Estrogen Receptor Inhibitor AZD9496 and the Drug from the family of CDK4/6 protein inhibitors Palbociclib -A Mathematical Model
Authors: Nave Ophir , Shor Yehuda , Bar Raziel , Segal Eliezer Elimelech , Sigron Moriah
Published: June 2023

In this article, we examine a mathematical model of breast cancer treatment that combines an oral estrogen receptor inhibitor called AZD9496 with Palbociclib which is a selective inhibitor of the cyclin-dependent kinases CDK4 and CDK6. The treatment is described by analytical functions that enable us to control the dosage and interval time of the treatment and thus making the treatment personalized for each patient. Initially, we investigated the effect of each of these treatments separately, and finally, we investigates the combination of both together. By applying numerical simulations, we can confirm that the combination of AZD9496 with palbociclib achieved the most effective treatment for breast cancer. In order to investigate the mathematical model, we applied the singularly perturbed homotopy analysis method (SPHAM), which is a numerical algorithm. The significant advantage of this method is that the mathematical model does not have to contain a small parameter (as usual in perturbation theory), but it is possible to artificially introduce a small parameter into the system of equations and this makes it possible to study the model by asymptotic methods.
Differences in clinical features between vestibular migraine, migraine with vestibular symptoms, and migraine without vestibular symptoms: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Toriyama Toshihide , Hanaoka Yoshiki , Horiuchi Tetsuyoshi
Published: June 2023

Background: Vestibular migraine (VM) is associated with a higher central sensitization than migraines without vestibular symptoms. VM and migraines with vestibular symptoms (MwVS) may share a similar disorder spectrum, as no differences in clinical features have been found, apart from disability. Patients with VM experience fluctuating mechanical pain thresholds and vestibular symptoms even without migraine attacks, suggesting persistent central sensitization. We hypothesized that interictal allodynia or hyperalgesia, which are indicative of persistent central sensitization, could be used to differentiate between VM, MwVS, and migraine without vestibular symptoms, that is, migraine only (MO). This study aimed to compare the demographic and clinical characteristics of VM, MwVS, and MO during the interictal phase and to determine whether VM exhibits more interictal allodynia/hyperalgesia than MwVS and MO.
Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we enrolled consecutive migraineurs aged 18–65 years who were assigned into the VM, MwVS, and MO groups and administered a structured questionnaire comprising diagnostic questions for migraine, VM, and associated variables. Clinical variables were compared among the three groups. After confirming data normality, variables were compared using appropriate tests. A multivariate logistic regression identified significant VM-associated variables, applying backward stepwise selection. Results were considered statistically significant when the two-tailed p-values < 0.05. The presence of interictal widespread pressure hyperalgesia (IWPH) was determined using a manual tender point survey as an alternative to the quantitative sensory testing method, which is the gold standard.
Results: Overall, 163 patients, of which 31 (19%), 54 (33.1%), and 78 (47.9%) were assigned to the VM, MwVS, and MO groups, respectively, were included in this study. Post-hoc comparison revealed that aura, tender point count, and IWPH were significantly associated with VM compared to MwVS. Multivariate logistic regression confirmed that aura and IWPH were independent and significant predictors of VM. No significant differences were observed in clinical features between MwVS and MO.
Conclusions: Aura and IWPH are independent predictors of VM, potentially playing pivotal roles in its pathogenesis. We have identified clinical features that differentiate between VM and MwVS, which can enhance our understanding of VM.
The clinical efficacy and safety of granulocyte and monocyte adsorptive apheresis in patients with Crohn’s disease: A multicenter retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ueno Nobuhiro , Saito Seisuke , Sato Masahiro , Sugiyama Yuya , Kobayashi Yu , Murakami Yuki , Sugimura Kohjiro , Sasaki Takahiro , Sakatani Aki , Takahashi Keitaro , Tanaka Kazuyuki , Serikawa Shinya , Ando Katsuyoshi , Kashima Shin , Muto Momotaro , Inaba Yuhei , Moriichi Kentaro , Tanabe Hiroki , Okumura Toshikatsu , Fujiya Mikihiro
Published: June 2023

Background: A remission induction therapy of granulocyte and monocyte adsorptive apheresis (GMA) with Adacolumn was given to patients with active Crohn’s disease (CD). However, establishing an appropriate treatment strategy for GMA in patients with active CD remains unclear.
Methods: This multicenter retrospective cohort study encompassed patients with CD who underwent GMA in seven independent institutions in Japan from January 2010 to March 2023. All clinical data were obtained from medical records. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical efficacy, safety, and subsequent clinical progression after GMA in patients with CD.
Result: This study enrolled 173 patients with active inflammatory bowel disease who underwent GMA with Adacolumn, and among them, 16 patients with CD with mild to moderate disease activity were analyzed. Concomitant medication, including steroids, immunomodulators, and biologics, was used in 93.7% of all cases. The overall remission and response rates were 25.0% and 68.8%, respectively. The response rate between groups concerning the frequency and total GMA sessions revealed no significant difference. Six (37.5%) patients experienced adverse events (AEs). All AEs were related to the trouble in blood access and recovered soon without any sequelae. Regarding the factors associated with response to GMA, the responder group had a significantly longer disease duration (336 vs 44 months, p = 0.036) and exhibited a relatively lower rate of intestinal strictures and a median score of a simple endoscopic score for CD (SES-CD) (9.1 vs 60 %, p = 0.063 and 10 vs 21.5, p = 0.091, respectively). Further, all patients responding to GMA received biologics that were continuously used before and after GMA. Furthermore, 36.4% of patients remained on the same biologics 52 weeks after GMA. Notably, all patients who continued the same biologics had previously experienced a loss of response to anti-tumor necrosis factor-α agent.
Conclusion: Therefore, GMA may exhibit heightened effectiveness in patients with moderately active CD without severe endoscopic activity. Moreover, it represents a potential novel therapeutic option for refractory CD, particularly with insufficient response to biologics.
Bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation of mitochondrial autophagy genes in knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Tang Kuihan , Sun Li , Chen Long , Feng Xiaobo , Wu Jiarui , Guo Hao , Zheng Yong
Published: June 2023

Background
Mitochondrial autophagy is closely related to the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis, In order to explore the role of mitochondrial autophagy related genes in Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) and its molecular mechanism.
Methods
KOA-related transcriptome data were extracted from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, and the differences were analyzed. Gene ontology (GO) and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were implemented to explore the function of differentially expressed mitochondrial autophagy genes (DEMGs). The STRING website was used to construct a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network among DEMGs to identify hub DEMGs. Support vector machine recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE) method was used to construct the hub DEMG diagnosis model. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was painted to access the diagnostic value of hub DEMGs. After the immune infiltration analysis was completed, biomarkers were obtained through correlation analysis of differential immune cells and hub DEMGs.
Results
In total, fifteen DEMGs were screened in patients with KOA. Subsequent enrichment analyses showed that these DEMG strains were mainly enriched in the mitophagy-animal, shigellosis, autophagy-animal and FoxO signal pathways. In addition, 5 hub DEMGs (BNIP3L, BNIP3, MAP1LC3B, ULK1 and FOXO3) were identified by SVM-RFE. The area under the curve (AUC) value of BNIP3 and FOXO3 was greater than 0.75 in the training and validation sets, indicating the decent diagnostic value for KOA. Immune-infiltration and correlation analysis showed that BNIP3 and FOXO3 were significantly correlated with three different immune cells, including primary B cells, M0 macrophage, and M2 macrophage. Thus, BNIP3 and FOXO3 were treated as biomarkers for the diagnosis of KOA.
Conclusion
In conclusion, two biomarkers (BNIP3 and FOXO3) related to mitochondrial autophagy were acquired between KOA and nomal samples by bioinformatics analysis, which might supply a new insight for the treatment and evaluation of KOA.
Factors influencing cervical cancer re-screening in sub-Saharan Africa: a cohort study
Authors: Bolo Sophie Evina , Kenfack Bruno , Wisniak Ania , Stoll Beat , Moukam Alida , Vassilakos Pierre , Tankeu Gilles , Yakam Virginie , Petignat Patrick , Sormani Jessica
Published: June 2023

Background
- Screening participation at recommended intervals is a crucial component of cervical cancer prevention effectiveness. However, little is known regarding the rate of re-screening in a Sub-Saharan context. Our aim was to estimate the re-screening rate of women in Cameroon after an initial Human Papilloma Virus -based screening and to identify factors that influence adherence.
Methods
- A cohort study was conducted in the Annex Regional Hospital of Dschang, where a primary screening unit had been implemented in 2015. Participants enrolled in the present study were women who had been screened more than 5 years before the date of inclusion and, for whom a re-screening test for cervical cancer was due. Women who initially tested positive for human papilloma virus (n = 132) and, a random sample of women who tested negative for human papilloma virus (n = 220) were enrolled in the present study. Participants were invited to participate in a telephone survey conducted between October 2021 and March 2022. The survey assessed participation to re-screening or not and reasons for participation or non-participation. Sociodemographic factors were collected, and associations were evaluated using chi-squared tests and logistic regression.
Results
- A total of 352 participants aged under 50 years (mean age 37.4 years) were contacted, and 203 (58.0%) complete the survey. The proportion of women who complied with the screening recommendation was 34.0% (95% CI 27.5% − 40.5%). Age, marital status, education level, type of employment, and place of residence were not associated with the rate of re-screening. Main reported barriers to re-screening were lack of information (39.0%), forgetfulness (39.0%), and impression of being in good health (30.0%). Women who remembered the recommended screening interval were 2 to 3 times more likely to undergo re-screening (aOR (adjusted odds ratio) = 2.3 [1.2–4.4], p = 0.013). Human papilloma virus- positive status at the initial screening was also associated with the re-screening((aOR) (95% CI): 3.4 (1.8–6.5).
Conclusion
- Following an initial Human Papilloma Virus-based screening campaign in the West Region of Cameroon, one third of women adhered to re-screening within the recommended timeframe. Existing screening strategies would benefit from developing better information approaches to reinforce the importance of repeated cervical cancer screening.
Alzheimer-type cerebral amyloidosis in the context of HIV infection: implications for a proposed new treatment approach
Authors: Ellis Ronald J. , Pal Shibangi , Achim Cristian L. , Sundermann Erin , Moore David J. , Soontornniyomkij Virawudh , Feldman Howard
Published: June 2023

Reverse transcriptase inhibitors (RTIs) are currently broadly prescribed for the treatment of HIV infection but are also thought to prevent Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) progression by protecting against amyloidosis. Our study evaluates the hypothesis that reverse transcriptase inhibitors protect against Alzheimer-type brain amyloidogenesis in the context of HIV infection. We compiled a case series of participants from a prospective study of the neurological consequences of HIV infection at the HIV Neurobehavioral Research Program (HNRP) who had serial neuropsychological and neurological assessments and were on RTIs. Two participants had gross and microscopic examination and immunohistochemistry of the brain at autopsy; one was assessed clinically for Alzheimer’s Disease by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis of phosphorylated-Tau, Total-Tau and Aβ42. Additionally, a larger cohort of autopsied individuals was evaluated for presence of amyloid plaques, Tau, and related pathologies. Three older, virally suppressed individuals with HIV who had long-term treatment with RTIs were included in analyses. Two cases demonstrated substantial cerebral amyloid deposition at autopsy. The third case met clinical criteria for AD based on a typical clinical course and CSF biomarker profile. In the larger cohort of autopsied individuals, the prevalence of cerebral amyloidosis among people with HIV (PWH) was greater for those on RTIs. Our study showed that long-term RTI therapy did not protect against Alzheimer-type brain amyloidogenesis in the context of HIV infection in these patients. Given the known toxicities of RTIs, it is premature to recommend them to individuals at risk or with Alzheimer’s disease who do not have HIV infection.
Internationalization of medical education in China: An assessment of teachers’ mobility efficacy through the lens of global competence
Authors: Jiang Qin , Song Xiaokang , Liu Lin , Sun Hong , Miao Chunxia , Zhang Hao , Liu Shenjun
Published: June 2023

Background
The Chinese government and universities have invested significantly in the internationalization of teachers in the past decade, especially in supporting teachers’ outward mobility. However, this has not been analyzed in the current literature. This study examined teachers’ mobility efficacy using the construct of global competence in a comparative base.
Methods
An online questionnaire was distributed to the teachers of a medical university in China. Descriptive statistics were used to compare levels of global competence. A one-way ANOVA analysis was implemented to test whether overseas experience makes a difference in the development of global competence. Multiple comparisons tests were conducted to verify the results.
Results
There was a significant difference in the reported global competence between teachers with and without overseas experience. Long-term overseas experience and overseas degree studies had the strongest relationship with higher levels of global competence, although the difference between them was not obvious. The short-term overseas experience did not display obvious differences from the others.
Conclusions
Our findings reinforce the idea that overseas experience is likely to yield more gains in teachers’ levels of global competence, and long-term overseas programs can be encouraged to assist teachers in efforts to enhance global competence.
Tectonostratigraphic evolution of the Paleogene basins in North Pakistan: Implications for the timing of closure of Eastern Tethys and India-Asia Collision
Authors: Ahmad Sajjad
Published: June 2023

The current investigation's goal is to time the eventual closure of Pakistan's portion of the northern Tethys rim in Kohat-Potwar Basin by using integrated bio-sequence stratigraphy and facies information. The Paleogene strata is divided into six biozones while its depositional profile resembles a distally steepened-homoclinal platform. Paleogene deposits in the Kohat Basin include two depositional cycles, two transgressive-highstand systems tracts, one lowstand systems tract, and two sequence boundaries. Three transgressive-highstand systems tracts were observed in the Potwar Basin, which are separated by two tectonically controlled and one eustatic sequence boundary. The sequence boundaries in both basins are synchronous at 50–49.5 Ma and mark a period of drastic change in sediment character, which may have been caused by the combined effects of uplift and eustatic sea level fall. This suggests that the proto-closure of the northern rim of Tethys occurred between 50 and 49.5 Ma. Only the Kohat Basin experienced the restoration of marine conditions, which happened in the Middle Lutetian at around 45.8 Ma and may have been brought on by a combination of flexural loading of the Indian Plate and eustatic sea-level rise that persisted until the Kohat Basin's closure in the Upper Lutetian at around 41.2 Ma.
Downregulation of host NOLC1 protein during influenza A virus H1N1 infection negatively affects virus replication
Authors: Wang Jingyu , Du Yalan , Wang Bo , Zhang Xinlu , Zhou Changbo , Liu Meichen , Yi Wenfu , Huo Yapeng , Liu Hongsheng , Ma Hongbin , Zheng Fangliang , Zhu Chunyu
Published: June 2023

Introduction: The influenza A virus nonstructural protein NS1 is crucial for the virus infection process. By interacting with various host RNAs or proteins, NS1 regulates both host and viral activities. Nucleolar and coiled-body phosphoprotein 1 (NOLC1), a protein involved in cell cycle regulation, may be involved in host viral resistance. The purpose of this study was to elucidate the changes in host NOLC1 during virus infection and the effect of these changes on virviral replication. Methods: We used co-immunoprecipitation to confirm that H1N1 NS1 can interact with NOLC1 in host cells. Results: We found that the D125 and R200 residues in H1N1 NS1 are crucial for the interaction. Real-time PCR and western blotting revealed changes in host NOLC1 during viral infection. Constructing a lentiviral vector, and then overexpressing and knocking down NOLC1 in A549 cells, enabled us to demonstrate how NOLC1 affects viral replication. We found that H1N1 NS1 interacts with host NOLC1 and that NOLC1 is inhibited during H1N1 infection. In NOLC1-knockdown A549 cells, viral replication was inhibited. Conclusion: The current study revealed that viral replication is negatively affected by a decrease in NOLC1 level in host cells. This research lays the foundation for a deeper comprehension of the mechanisms underlying the complex host–influenza virus interactions, as well as for the prevention and management of influenza viruses.
Accessibility, usability, readability, and security analysis of company websites
Authors: Akgül Yakup , Uymaz Ali Osman , Baba Adem
Published: June 2023

The use of web technologies has transformed the way businesses communicate with their clients, customers, and stakeholders. Although websites can be effective tools for sharing information, marketing, and public relations, people with disabilities and the elderly often face challenges when accessing information on websites. To address this issue, many countries have made web accessibility mandatory by law. This study aims to evaluate the web accessibility of the 100 largest Turkish companies, as ranked by Capital magazine, and to assess the usability, readability, and security of their corporate websites. Despite some areas for improvement, the study identified significant issues related to accessibility, usability, readability, and security. The report provides recommendations for developers and administrators on how to address these issues and ensure that information is accessible to all stakeholders. Ultimately, the study aims to help organizations and web developers improve their policies and practices to enhance web accessibility, usability, readability, and security.
Unraveling the Complexities of Climate Change and Environment Migration: A Transformers-Based Topic Modelling Approach
Authors: Perez-Segura Víctor , Caro-Carretero Raquel , Rua Antonio
Published: June 2023

This research aims to synthesize the theoretical field on climate migrations by identifying the main thematic lines that make up the area of study, as well as to analyze their temporal evolution, geographic distribution, and impact. For this purpose, a thematic analysis of the abstracts of 1,048 scientific articles has been carried out by applying natural language processing techniques. The analyses consisted of the application of a clustering strategy based on high dimensionality vectors generated from the texts through the application of neural networks based on BERT architecture. The results show that the research on climate migrations is composed of a total of 15 distinct themes. It has also been found that each thematic line is different in their volume, temporal evolution, geographic distribution, and impact. This knowledge offers a privileged position to strengthen the development of the discipline by providing greater perspective to researchers and knowledge about the field of study itself.
Interweaving Real-Time Jobs with Energy Harvesting to Maximize Throughput
Authors: Schieber Baruch , Samineni Bhargav , Vahidi Soroush
Published: June 2023

Motivated by baterryless IoT devices, we consider the following scheduling problem. The input includes $n$ unit time jobs $\calJ = \lrc{J_1, \ldots, J_n}$, where each job $J_i$ has a release time $r_i$, due date $d_i$, energy requirement $e_i$, and weight $w_i$. We consider time to be slotted; hence, all time related job values refer to slots. Let $T=\max_i\lrc{d_i}$. The input also includes an $h_t$ value for every time slot $t$ $\lrp{1 \leq t \leq T}$, which is the energy harvestable on that slot. Energy is harvested at time slots when no job is executed. The objective is to find a feasible schedule that maximizes the weight of the scheduled jobs. A schedule is feasible if for every job $J_j$ in the schedule and its corresponding slot $t_j$, $t_{j} \neq t_{j'}$ if ${j} \neq {j'}$, $r_j \leq t_j \leq d_j$, and the available energy before $t_j$ is at least $e_j$. To the best of our knowledge, we are the first to consider the theoretical aspects of this problem. In this work we show the following. \textsf{(1)} A polynomial time algorithm when all jobs have identical $r_i, d_i$ and $w_i$. \textsf{(2)} A $\frac{1}{2}$-approximation algorithm when all jobs have identical $w_i$ but arbitrary $r_i$ and $d_i$. \textsf{(3)} An FPTAS when all jobs have identical $r_i$ and $d_i$ but arbitrary $w_i$. \textsf{(4)} Reductions showing that all the variants of the problem in which at least one of the attributes $r_i$, $d_i$, or $w_i$ are not identical for all jobs are $\NPH$.
A deep unfolding network-based image transmission scheme in D2D mobile edge networks
Authors: Bao Shuang , Li Lixiang , Peng Haipeng , Liang Junying , Wang Lanlan
Published: June 2023

With the explosion of data on mobile devices and users, the conflict between the explosion of data traffic in mobile communications and the resource constraints of mobile devices is intensifying. The device-to-device (D2D) communication technology is the ideal technology for direct communication between resource-limited devices. Therefore, for image transmission tasks on edge mobile devices, we propose a depth unfolding network based image transmission scheme. The proposed scheme improves the efficiency of the D2D communication of the device, while ensuring image reconstruction performance. The proposed scheme consists of a deep unfolding network-based image reconstruction model called DAMP-Net+ and a pre-trained compression model. DAMP-Net+ combines DWT with AMP algorithm unfolded to DNNs to increase the Quality of transferred image. In addition , DAMP-NET+ converts the matrix multiplication in the sampling module to a semi-tensor product, significantly reducing the size of the sampling matrix and saving storage resources on edge mobile devices. The experimental data indicates that the proposed scheme achieves the expected results in terms of image reconstruction effect, operation speed and security performance. Compared to other six methods, DAMP-Net+ obtained better PSNR and SSIM at sampling rates of 1%, 4% and 10%, while obtaining better visual results.
Novel, standardized pre-clinical surgical animal model to investigate the cellular and molecular mechanisms of ischemic flap healing
Authors: Aksamitiene Edita , Heffelfinger Ryan N , Hoek Jan B , Pribitkin Edmund deAzevedo
Published: June 2023

Background Some of the most complex surgical interventions to treat trauma and cancer include the use of locoregional pedicled flaps and free autologous tissue transfer. While the techniques used for these reconstructive surgery procedures have improved over time, flap complications and even failure remain a significant clinical challenge. Animal models are useful in studying the pathophysiology of ischemic flaps, but when repeatability is a primary focus of a study, conventional in-vivo designs, where one randomized subset of animals serves as a treatment group while a second subset serves as a control, are at a disadvantage instigated by greater subject-to-subject variability.Results We present a novel, economical, and standardized pre-clinical animal model of excisional full-thickness wound closure and healing using axial pattern flaps that incorporates an anatomically named vascular pedicle. In this bilateral epigastric fasciocutaneous advancement flap (BEFAF) model, which simulates an actual clinical procedure of autologous tissue transfer, one flap heals under normal and a contralateral flap - under perturbed conditions or both flaps heal under conditions that vary by one within-subjects factor. Although we describe step-by-step methodological approach how to create such flaps as well as collect, process, and analyze flap survival data in larger size rodents, specifically, the rats (Rattus norvegicus), the BEFAF model is transferable and could be implemented in any mammalian species. We also stress the importance of taking and presenting high resolution histological stain images of the flaps that are indispensable for diagnostic result interpretation in the full-thickness wound healing studies.Conclusions BEFAFs may be used to investigate the spatiotemporal cellular and molecular responses to complex tissue injury and interventions simulating clinically relevant flap complications (e.g., secondary arterial, venous, or mixed ischemia) and therapeutic or surgical treatments (e.g., flap delay) in the presence or absence of confounding risk factors (e.g., substance abuse, irradiation, diabetes) or favorable wound-healing promoting activities (e.g., exercise). This technically challenging but feasible reconstructive surgery model eliminates inter-subject variability, while concomitantly minimizing the number of animals needed to achieve adequate statistical power. BEFAF also serves as an aid for teaching basic vascular microsurgery techniques that focus on precision, tremor management and magnification.
Analyzing the impact of software complexity on software design reviews and inspections
Authors: Silva D. I. , Zoysa R.R.P. , Mawaththa W.R.Y , Tharushika W.D.C. , Fernando U.S.L. , Muthusinghe M.M.R.
Published: June 2023

This research was conducted to evaluate how software complexity affects design reviews and inspections and to offer remedies and workarounds to counteract any unfavorable consequences. To do this, a brand-new metric known as Sudul's Complexity Measure (SCM), which offers an overall complexity evaluation of software systems, was devised. The research evaluated ten software applications with varied degrees of complexity by combining the insights of professionals in the field of software engineering with quantitative and qualitative analysis. The results showed that there is a negative correlation between software complexity and inspection uniformity, review ease, and time, effort, and cost of reviews and inspections. It was also discovered that the design techniques utilized had a bigger influence on transparency than the program's level of complexity. The research provided a variety of remedies and workarounds for the drawbacks of software complexity, including instructing reviewers and inspectors, enhancing the design procedure, and using software tools to automate the review procedure. The study was constrained by a limited sample size for both software applications and experts as well as its exclusive emphasis on design reviews and inspections rather than other areas of software development like testing and maintenance. This article offers a thorough analysis of how software complexity affects design reviews and inspections, with ramifications for software development firms, project managers, and software engineers. Organizations may apply methods to lessen negative impacts and enhance the overall quality and efficiency of their software development processes by understanding how software complexity affects design reviews and inspections. Future research is required, nevertheless, to get beyond the drawbacks of this one, including a bigger sample size and a more thorough analysis of software complexity across the whole development process.
Comparison and investigation on characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome rat models induced by letrozole, testosterone propionate, and high-fat diets
Authors: Hu Runan , Huang Yanjing , Liu Zhuo , Dong Haoxu , Ma Wenwen , Song Kunkun , Xu Xiaohu , Wu Xiao , Geng Yuli , Li Fan , Zhang Mingmin , Song Yufan
Published: June 2023

Background
Due to the ethical limitations in human research, an ideal animal model is a critical resource for studying the etiology, pathophysiology, and long-term health outcomes of PCOS. However, no gold-standard rodent PCOS model has been achieved until now. The current study attempts to propose the ideal rat model for studies on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Results
LE treatment induced hyperandrogenemia, further disrupting the estrous cycle, inducing polycystic ovary morphology, and impairing ovarian function. However, this effect could be restored within six weeks. Concurrently, LE enhanced excess fat storage, diminished adipocyte browning and energy expenditure, promoted hepatic steatosis, induced glucose intolerance, developed insulin resistance, affected the inflammation state, and compromised the intestinal barrier. HFD could amplify the effects of LE, particularly the metabolic disturbance. While the pituitary-ovarian axis was more efficiently and consistently affected by TP, which interrupted estrous cycle, overactivated primordial follicles, induced polycystic ovary morphology, altered hormonogenesis and expression of hormone receptors, suppressed follicle maturation, and influenced ovarian inflammation level. TP also altered the composition of intestinal microbiota and compromised the intestinal barrier. However, the effects on glucose, insulin, lipid, and energy metabolism were not as profound as LE, which can be supplemented by HFD.
Conclusions
LE is beneficial for studies on PCOS metabolic disturbances; LE + HFD is suitable for investigations on PCOS metabolic abnormalities and the gut-PCOS link. Whereas, T injection is appropriate for studying PCOS reproductive abnormalities; T + HFD treatment is the most comprehensive for PCOS reproductive abnormalities, metabolic disturbances, and the gut-PCOS link.
Premature birth changes wiring constraints in neonatal structural brain networks
Authors: Akarca Danyal , Astle Duncan , Mousley Alexa
Published: June 2023

Structural brain organization in infancy is associated with later cognitive, behavioral, and educational outcomes. Due to practical limitations, such as poor in-utero imaging, there is a lack of understanding of the early emergence of topological organization. We combine the developing Human Connectome Project’s large infant dataset with generative network modeling to simulate the emergence of network organization over early development. Preterm infants had reduced connectivity, shorter connection lengths and lower network efficiency compared to term-born infants. The models were able to recapitulate the organizational differences between term and preterm networks and revealed that preterm infant networks are better simulated under tighter wiring constraints than term infants. Tighter constraints for preterm models resulted in shorter connection lengths while preserving vital, long-range rich club connections. These simulations suggest that preterm birth is associated with a renegotiation of the cost/value wiring trade-off that may drive the emergence of different network organization.
Clean Energy Transition Pathways for India
Authors: Lobo Fern , Jansen Malte , Luscombe Hannah , Howells Mark , Tan Naomi , Cannone Carla , Yeganyan Rudolf , Patterson Simon
Published: June 2023

India is uniquely positioned to shape how developing nations achieve a clean energy transition. Reaching the targets set at COP26 requires a clear pathway. Specifically, India faces the critical challenge of shifting away from coal and increasing its share of renewable energy. This study has focussed on the following targets announced by the Indian government at COP-26: 1) Reaching 500 GW Non-fossil energy capacity by 2030 (focussed on exceeding this target by 50GW) 2) Reducing total projected carbon emissions by one billion tonnes, and 3) Achieving net zero by 2070. However, considering India’s social and economic dependency on the coal industry, along with the immense pressure from the significant, growing population, how these targets can be achieved must be scrutinised to form a clear roadmap for success. Energy System Modelling, specifically OSeMOSYS, have provided a valuable mechanism for formulating evidence-based policy recommendations. This study developed a “starter data kit” for India, allowing for the modelling of six scenarios based on the three aforementioned COP-26 targets. The modelled scenarios are as follows: a Low Cost scenario; a Fossil Future scenario, where no new investment is made in renewable energy or efficiency after 2021; a scenario where 550GW of solar/wind/hydropower is integrated into the system by 2030; Net Zero by 2070; Net Zero by 2070, with 550 GW of renewables and a 1 bn tCO2 reduction in carbon emissions; and a scenario with 550 GW of renewables combined with the 1 bn tCO2 reduction. The results of this modelling, along with a comprehensive literature review, found that to achieve all three targets a shift in baseload energy is required, suggesting nuclear and biomass as suitable sources. Despite the high capital cost of nuclear, its longevity and low running costs counter this. It was also determined that securing 550 GW of renewable energy by 2030 is an important starting point for renewable energy penetration. However, increased system dependence on renewables requires a congruent scale-up of energy storage capabilities to address system instability, specifically to ~ 160 GWh of capacity. Finally, deep penetration of energy efficiency is integral to success, which should be promoted with improved fiscal and financial incentives, along with education campaigns. To achieve its COP-26 climate targets, India should consider the implementation of the above recommendations.
Controlling the morphology of poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(lactide) (PEG-PLA) self-assemblies in solution: Interplay of homopolymer additive and kinetic traps
Authors: Lim PQ , Parikh AN , Venkatraman S , bczarny
Published: June 2023

Block copolymer (BCP) self-assembly involves various components in the system interacting in diverse and intricate ways to result in a final state. This paper explores the how homopolymer additives and kinetic traps can be used to control the morphology of self-assembly of poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(lactide) (PEG-PLA) nanostructures in water. By kinetically trapping PEG-PLA nanostructures formed in the presence of a non-adsorbing PEG homopolymer, we reveal how different concentrations and molecular weights of the added PEG was found to be able to induce micelle-to-vesicle transitions. This phenomenon was ascribed to a change in the molecular geometry of the underlying BCP induced by the added PEG homopolymer due largely to excluded volume screening effects. In addition, we demonstrated the reverse vesicle-to-micelle transition upon homopolymer removal, and the kinetic nature of the system rendered the transition effect time and temperature dependent. Analysis of the intermediate transition structures reinforces our proposed mechanism involving the change in the underlying molecular geometry of the PEG-PLA BCP. As proof of concept, we showed how our understanding of the PEG-PLA system allowed us successfully utilize the PEG-PLA vesicles thermoresposive delivery systems. We showed how the vesicles was able to retain dye at low temperature (4℃) and the release can be triggered upon heating (37℃). Overall, the work here introduces a novel means of regulating the morphology and behavior of BCP nanostructures, which can have important downstream applications.
Hepatoprotective Role of Emodin in Chemical-Induced Liver Injury histopathological study in Mice Model
Authors: Soliman Mona H. , Innonnhm Mary
Published: June 2023

Background: Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4)-induced chronic liver injury results in liver fibrosis and eventually causes cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. The current study is aimed at analyzing the impact of emodin on liver fibrosis and the inflammation in CCl4-induced liver injury among mice and the mechanisms associated with it.
Objectives: The aim of the current study is to evaluate the morphological changes and the molecular mechanisms that are involved in liver fibrosis, induced by the administration of CCl4 and the potentials of emodin in treating the disease.
Methods: For this study, a total of 30 male albino rats was considered and was segregated into three groups with each group containing 10 mice. The mice were treated with CCl4 for about 4-5 weeks while in parallel, emodin was administered upon the study group in the last two weeks. Then, the liver tissues were harvested from the mice to conduct morphological, biochemical and molecular analyses.
Results: The outcomes obtained from hematoxylin and eosin staining followed by enzyme level analysis found that CCl4 treatment severely damaged the liver tissues of the study group mice and also incremented the liver functional enzymes. But, when the groups were treated with Emodin, the enzyme levels got reduced. This establishes the potential therapeutic effect of Emodin upon liver function. As per the molecular analysis results, CCl4 treatment increases the mRNA expression of SMAD4, α-SMA, TGF, MDA, Nrf2, and pro-inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α. However, these genes got downregulated when Emodin is used along with CCl4. In addition to these, the combination also upregulated the anti-inflammatory markers such as IL-1β and IL-10, Hepatic and Cancer-specific markers HNF-α, Albumin, p53, and AFP. As per the study outcomes, it can be concluded that Emodin is a promising therapeutic agent that can be used in the treatment of liver damage and inflammation, triggered by CCl4 treatment.
Conclusion: The study concludes that through the regulation of TGFβ/Smad4 pathway, Emodin attenuates the liver fibrosis and inflammation in CCl4-induced hepatic injury in mice. The results achieved establish emodion as a potential therapeutic candidate to treat liver fibrosis and inflammation.
Specific functions of Slack potassium channels in sensory neurons and spinal dorsal horn neurons in pain processing
Authors:   , Zhou Fangyuan
Published: June 2023

Slack (sequence like a Ca2+ -activated K + channel; also termed Slo2.2, Kcnt1, or KNa 1.1) is a Na+ -activated K + channel that is highly expressed in the peripheral and central nervous system. Previous studies have shown that Slack is enriched in the isolectin B4binding, non-peptidergic subpopulation of C-fiber sensory neurons and that Slack controls the sensory input in neuropathic pain. Recent single-cell RNA-sequencing studies suggested that Slack is highly co-expressed with transient receptor potential (TRP) ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) in sensory neurons. By using in situ hybridization and immunostaining we confirmed that Slack is highly co-localized with TRPA1 in sensory neurons, but only to a minor extent with TRP vanilloid 1. Mice lacking Slack globally or conditionally in sensory neurons (SNS-Slack─/─ ), but not mice lacking Slack conditionally in neurons of the spinal dorsal horn (Lbx1-Slack─/─ ), displayed increased pain behavior after intraplantar injection of the TRPA1 activator allyl isothiocyanate. Patch-clamp recordings with cultured primary neurons and in a HEK-293 cell line transfected with TRPA1 and Slack revealed that Slack-dependent K + currents are modulated in a TRPA1-dependent manner. Taken together, these findings highlight Slack as a modulator of TRPA1-mediated activation of sensory neurons. Furthermore, we investigated the contribution of Slack in the spinal dorsal horn to pain processing. Lbx1-Slack ─/─ mice demonstrated normal basal pain sensitivity and Complete Freund’s Adjuvant-induced inflammatory pain. Interestingly, we observed a significantly increased spared nerve injury (SNI)-induced neuropathic pain hypersensitivity in Lbx1-Slack ─/─ mutants compared to control littermates. Moreover, we tested the effects of pharmacological Slack activation in the SNI model. Systemic and intrathecal, but not intraplantar administration of the Slack opener loxapine significantly alleviated SNI-induced hypersensitivity in control mice, but only slightly in Lbx1Slack ─/─ mice, further supporting the inhibitory function of Slack in spinal dorsal horn neurons in neuropathic pain processing. Altogether, our data suggest that Slack in sensory neurons controls TRPA1-induced pain, whereas Slack in spinal dorsal horn neurons inhibits peripheral nerve injury induced neuropathic pain. These data provide further insights into the molecular mechanisms of pain sensation.
A Simple Low-cost Method for Accurate Canopy Density Evaluation of Citrus
Authors: Livingston Taylor , Levy Amit , Vashisth Tripti
Published: June 2023

The use of canopy density for crop production is a useful tool for evaluating management practices for informed decision-making and predicting crop yields. Traditional methods for analyzing canopy density include expensive equipment that requires advanced software and costly repairs, such as leaf area index analyzers, or equipment that can only be used during optimal weather conditions, such as light meters, that quantify photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), thus making it difficult for researchers to maximize the time needed for field research evaluations and data collection. Digital image analyses using technologically advanced cameras, such as smartphone cameras, have allowed new ways of collecting data without the need to purchase specialized instruments. Using a combination of smartphone cameras and ImageJ software, canopy density can be measured in any weather conditions for a much lower cost than that of traditional equipment. This low-cost, digital image analysis method was compared with traditional PAR measurements for ‘Valencia’ sweet orange [Citrus sinensis (L.) Osb.] trees with varying levels of canopy density. A strong positive correlation between the digital image analysis method and standard canopy density measurement method using PAR measurements (r = 0.79; P<0.0001) was found, indicating that this method can be used as an alternative to the PAR method. The digital image analysis method was also consistent when used during different weather conditions, whereas the PAR method was highly variable when quantifying the canopy when clouds were present in comparison with clear sky conditions. This novel method provides researchers and growers with an easy, flexible, consistent, and low-cost option for analyzing canopy density.
Protocolo virtual autodirigido de Activación Conductual para la Depresión “ACTÍVATE”
Authors: Nieto Capador Darío , Herrera Jiménez Viviana Andrea , Mesa Mantilla Manuela , Schambach Cajamarca Dalitta
Published: June 2023

La depresión es un trastorno psicológico de alta prevalencia a nivel mundial, tanto en hombres como enmujeres, que puede presentarse a lo largo el ciclo de vida y que requiere un tratamiento efectivo que se ajuste a lasnecesidades de cada persona, como lo hace la Activación Conductual en modalidad presencial o virtual. El objetivode esta investigación de tipo instrumental fue establecer el diseño e Índice de Validez de Contenido de un protocolovirtual autodirigido de Activación Conductual para la Depresión. El diseño del protocolo se realizó con base enuna revisión sistemática de la literatura y una revisión teórica de la temática, y para la validación por contenido seutilizó la evaluación por jueces expertos. Los datos de las evaluaciones se analizaron con base al modelo de Lawshe(1975), modificado por Tristán-López (2008)nevertheless, except the CVR (Content Validity Ratio. Los resultadosindicaron la validez de contenido del protocolo virtual autodirigido de Activación Conductual para la Depresión,coincidiendo con los referentes teóricos y empíricos actuales. Emerge la necesidad de crear una guía de uso paraterapeuta y de identificar la efectividad del protocolo.Palabras clave: terapia virtual, activación conductual, depresión, diseño de contenido, validación de contenido.
Literacidad psicagógica. Notas sobre literacidad, crítica y formación
Authors: Sánchez Muñoz Juan Carlos
Published: June 2023

A partir del diálogo entre dos proceso investigativos, de administración y pedagogía, de Juan Carlos Sánchez Muñoz, y de poder y dirección, de Carlos Alberto Molina Gómez, se proponen la lectura y la escritura para dudar de verdades que ellas han consolidado, pues ambas difunden certezas que se han construido humanamente. ¿La lectura y la escritura podrían derrumbar esas mismas verdades? Se sugiere la literacidad psicagógica como demoledora de convicciones fabricadas en un período determinado, no discutidas y dadas como verdad. Esto la visibiliza como tecnología del yo o como experiencia de escritura de sí y de desarrollo de pensamiento crítico. De esta forma se privilegia y se desarrolla la literacidad psicagógica, en relación con la estética de la existencia, como actitud epistemológica y ética, que daría cuenta de la lectura y de la escritura como tecnologías del yo o del cuidado de sí, sobre todo en la investigación.