bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efeito alelopático da Cyperus rotundus L. sobre a germinação de bioindicadoras e no crescimento inicial do milho (Zea mays)
Authors: Souza Luana de , Taveira Ana Luisa Moro , Feitosa Amanda Janaina Gonsatti , Menegon Sabrina Jackeline , Araujo Guilherme de Almeida Caputti , Silva Shirley Martins , Fortes Andréa Maria Teixeira
Published: February 2024

A planta invasora tiririca (Cyperus rotundus L.) é bastante agressiva e de difícil controle a nível mundial, gerando prejuízos na agricultura. O objetivo desse trabalho foi identificar possíveis efeitos alelopáticos de extratos aquosos das folhas secas da tiririca na germinação de sementes das bioindicadoras chicória e pepino. As sementes foram colocadas em placas de petri, forradas com papel filtro, sendo cinco tratamentos (0%, 2,5%, 5,0%, 7,5% e 10%) com quatro repetições. Também foi testado o efeito do pó das folhas de tiririca no crescimento inicial e anatomia da raiz e rizoma do milho em casa de vegetação, sendo utilizados três tratamentos: testemunha (T1), (T2) com 5,57 g de pó de tiririca e o (T3) com 11,15 g de pó de tiririca. Os resultados foram submetidos à ANOVA e as médias comparadas pelo Tukey a 5% de probabilidade. O extrato evidenciou potencial alelopático negativo na germinação da chicória. Para o pepino verificou-se menor comprimento da raiz nos tratamentos com extrato. No crescimento inicial do milho, o extrato estimulou a porcentagem de emergência do milho. Na anatomia das raízes do milho houve formação de aerênquima e acúmulo de aleloquímico na epiderme e córtex. No rizoma (caule) não houve alterações.
Fármacos indutores hormonais tireoidianos e seus impactos nas doenças neurológicas: Uma revisão integrativa de literatura
Authors: Lins Maria Luíza Martins de Almeida , Pereira André Luiz de Ponte Souza , Rodrigues Ketylla Lopes Tadaiesky , Oliveira Mel Cristine , Ferreira Roberta Suany Souza , Diniz Isabela Guerreiro , Guimarães Márcia Cristina Monteiro
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: realizar uma revisão integrativa de literatura sobre os efeitos e mecanismos de ação dos fármacos indutores hormonais tireoidianos no tratamento de doenças neurológicas. Metodologia: Utilizou-se uma revisão integrativa de literatura incluindo a definição do tema, critérios de inclusão e exclusão, avaliação e interpretação dos estudos. A busca foi realizada em várias bases de dados, como Scopus, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, LILACS, BDENF e SciELO. Resultados: Dos 954 estudos inicialmente identificados, 10 foram incluídos na análise final após um rigoroso processo de triagem e avaliação da qualidade. As categorias-chave identificadas foram “Fármacos Indutores Hormonais Tireoidianos”, “Doenças Neurológicas Alvo”, “Efeitos Terapêuticos” e “Considerações Farmacológicas”. Estas categorias abordam desde o estudo de medicamentos específicos e suas interações fisiológicas até os impactos terapêuticos e considerações práticas na administração desses fármacos. Considerações Finais: Conclui-se que este trabalho consolida o conhecimento atual e abre novas perspectivas no cruzamento da endocrinologia com a neurologia, visando a melhoria contínua na qualidade de vida dos pacientes com condições neurológicas complexas.
KAJIAN EFISIENSI TATANIAGA JENGKOL DI DESA PARDASUKA PRINGSEWU PROVINSI LAMPUNG
Authors: Kamilah Ahya , Lutfiadi Ridwan , Lukman Hadi
Published: February 2024

Jengkol or jering (Archidendron pauciflorum, synonyms: A jiringa, pithecellobium jiringa, P.Plobatum) is a plant typical of Southeast Asia. in Malaysia it is called (jering) and Myanmar (da nyin thee). In Thailand it is called (luk nieng) Jengkol including the leguminous tribe (Fabaceae). Jengkol in this case belongs to the fruit group that has not been cultivated optimally. This study aims to determine: (1) the jengkol trading system in Pardasuka Village, Pardasuka District, Pringsewu Regency. (2) jengkol trading system institutions involved in the trading system in Pardasuka Village, Pardasuka District, Pringsewu Regency. (3) how is the efficiency of the jengkol trading system in Pardasuka Village, Pardasuka District, Pringsewu Regency. The results of this study concluded that the jengkol trading channel involved four trading institutions namely farmers, collector traders, wholesalers, retailers. Operationally, of the three existing trading system channel patterns, channel III is more efficient when viewed from the value of the trading system margin which is evenly distributed in each trading system institution involved and seen from the spread of the ratio of profits and costs that is the greatest.
PENGARUH KETERAMPILAN SOSIAL TERHADAP KEDISIPLINAN ANAK USIA DINI
Authors: Abd Malik Hisham
Published: February 2024

The aim of the research was to know the effect of social skills on early childhood discipline at TKIT Insan Ekselensia Jatiranggon. The research sample used was 40 students who were determined based on the cluster sampling technique. The data analyzed in this research is descriptive analysis and infrensial analysis. The results of the study show that the social skills possessed by a child affect their discipline, this is evidenced by the coefficient of determination (R-Square) = 0.265, this indicates that 26% of the variation in the discipline variable can be influenced by Social Skills.
Strategi Kebijakan Kepala Sekolah Dalam Keterampilan Penggunaan Teknologi Informasi Dan Komunikasi Guru Pendidikan Agama Islam
Authors: Nur Tasya Fajrihan , Khasanah Latifatul
Published: February 2024

With the pandemic, it requires teachers and students to do learning from home, which requires teh use of information and communication technology as a medium, but the current reality is that many teacher are not professional in carrying out their duties and obligations. Most of the methods used by teachers when teaching are only monotonous. As in the case in SMPN 260 Jakarta, that the lack of information and communication skills for islamic religious education teachers. Even though they have not fully mastered the field of technology, even though the facilities and infrastucture are adequate. Then what is the principalâ€™s strategy in improving the information and communication skills of the PAI teachers?The result of this study indicate that the principal has a strategy in improving the information and communication skills of PAI teachers in various ways such as conducting group activities (learning together), making the operatorâ€™s work more effective by helping teachers work in using technology, and facilitating teachers to attend training/training related to teachers empowerment.
Meningkatkan Kemampuan Motorik Kasar Anak Usia Dini Melalui Permainan Tradisional Engklek
Authors: Masruroh Siti , Diananda Amita
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to improve motor skills in group B students of RA Nurul Huda by using the playing method, through the traditional game of engklek Â . This research is a classroom action research (CAR). The research was carried out in two cycles, with each cycle consisting of planning, implementing actions, observing, and reflecting. The research subjects were group B RA Nurul Huda which collected 10 students. Sources of data come from teachers and students. Data collection techniques are by observation, interviews, and documentation. The validity of the data using the triangulation technique method. Data analysis used qualitative data analysis techniques and quantitative data analysis. The results of the Classroom Action Research Improving the Traditional Engklek Game through Gross Motoric Early Childhood at RA Nurul Huda Curug Tangerang showed a significant increase in motor skills, namely in the first period to be precise in March 2022 the average value was 67.7, while in the first period, the average value was 67.7. second to be exact in June 2022 the average score is 82. An increase of 21%.
PENGARUH KEDISIPLINAN BERIBADAH TERHADAP HASIL BELAJAR SISWA
Authors: Yanah Eva , Attamimi Naila
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to find out how the influence of the discipline of worship on the learning outcomes of Islamic religious education subjects for class VIII students at SMP Plus As-sa'adah 2, Tangerang Regency. This study uses a quantitative approach. The population in this study were class VIII students at SMP Plus As-Sa'adah 2 Tangerang Regency. Data collection techniques using observation, questionnaires, interviews, and documentation. The sample in this study used a random sampling technique, i.e. every student in the population had the same opportunity to be sampled and 45 samples were obtained. The results of this study are that there is an influence in the discipline of worship on the learning outcomes of Islamic religious education subjects. This was obtained from the results of the correlation coefficient rcount of 0.569 > rtable of 0.301 with the influence of the Discipline of Worship on Learning Outcomes of Islamic Religious Education Subjects of 32.4%.
Broodstock nutrition in Nile tilapia and its implications on reproductive efficiency
Authors: Engdaw Flipos , Geremew Akewake
Published: February 2024

Broodstock nutrition is the most essential constituent of sustainable aquaculture production. Its impact on the reproductive performance and profitability of commercial aquaculture has been the subject of considerable research. The present paper reviews the literature available on the subject, examining the implication of Nile tilapia broodstock nutrition on parameters including maturation, fecundity, fertilization, embryo development, larval quality, and survival rate. The provision of a nutritive diet composed of essential macro- and micronutrients including proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and functional additives, such as prebiotics, enzymes, hormones, and probiotics, in different proportions is discussed. Special emphasis is given to literature dealing with the effects of dietary protein and lipid on vitellogenesis and ovarian maturation, fecundity, egg hatching rate, larval quality, and fry survival number. The impact of the feeding regime on reproductive performance is described.
Progress in clinical research and applications of retinal vessel quantification technology based on fundus imaging
Authors: Chen Naimei , Zhu Zhentao , Yang Weihua , Wang Qiang
Published: February 2024

Retinal blood vessels are the only directly observed blood vessels in the body; changes in them can help effective assess the occurrence and development of ocular and systemic diseases. The specificity and efficiency of retinal vessel quantification technology has improved with the advancement of retinal imaging technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms; it has garnered attention in clinical research and applications for the diagnosis and treatment of common eye and related systemic diseases. A few articles have reviewed this topic; however, a summary of recent research progress in the field is still needed. This article aimed to provide a comprehensive review of the research and applications of retinal vessel quantification technology in ocular and systemic diseases, which could update clinicians and researchers on the recent progress in this field.
Communication, theory of change, and clean energy
Authors: Cox Robert
Published: February 2024

Some years ago, I stepped away from my faculty position at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC) to become more deeply engaged with the Sierra Club, one of the oldest environmental NGOs in the United States. Given my research, I knew insights into strategic communication in advocacy campaigns would likely be applicable, particularly, to the climate change efforts in which I was planning to participate. Climate change campaigns, like campaigns focused on other issues, usually involve multiple forms of communication—grassroots organizing, social media, demonstrations, media coverage, placards, canvassing, etc. Beyond these tactical uses, NGOs also may conceive a strategic rationale for a campaign itself as derived from core communication principles. As it turned out, I would have an opportunity to help to design one such campaign, a message driven initiative to accelerate the movement toward a greater commitment to use 100% clean, renewable energy in the United States.
Characteristics of the spatio-temporal evolution of the improved integrated ecological effect index (IEEI) in mountainous province based on remote sensing: a case study in Yunnan province of southwest China
Authors: Yang Renyi , Yang Zisheng , Zhong Changbiao , He Yimei
Published: February 2024

Land use/cover change (LUCC) and the evaluation of its ecological effects are the important and key areas of research on global environmental change and sustainable development. In response to the problems and limitations of various methods of evaluating the ecological effects of LUCC, this article takes Yunnan Province, a mountainous province with a relatively fragile “innate” ecological environment, as the research area. Based on LUCC data from the interpretation of seven phases of remote sensing (RS) images taken in Yunnan, combined with the investigation of soil erosion data by using remote sensing technology, an improved integrated ecological effect index (IEEI) for the LUCC and a method for its evaluation are proposed; this index was applied to calculate the integrated ecological effect index for the LUCC and analyze its spatiotemporal evolution in 129 counties in Yunnan from 1990 to 2020. The spatiotemporal changes, characteristics, and laws of the integrated ecological effects of LUCC in the whole province and counties from 1990 to 2020 were revealed, with the goal of offering a fundamental framework for long-term strategic planning and management in mountainous provinces. Overall, in the past 30 years, the integrated ecological effect of Yunnan Province and various counties has significantly improved. However, the IEEI of the province is not yet very high, and its regional differences are significant. It is urgent to increase the efforts of ecological civilization construction (ECC) throughout the province, adopt practical and effective ecologically-friendly land use ways and ecological environment protection and construction measures according to local conditions, and steadily improve the integrated ecological effect of various regions.
Comprehensive analysis of lactate-related gene profiles and immune characteristics in lupus nephritis
Authors: Sun Zhan , Gao Zhanyan , Xiang Mengmeng , Feng Yang , Wang Jie , Xu Jinhua , Wang Yilun , Liang Jun
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The most frequent cause of kidney damage in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is lupus nephritis (LN), which is also a significant risk factor for morbidity and mortality. Lactate metabolism and protein lactylation might be related to the development of LN. However, there is still a lack of relative research to prove the hypothesis. Hence, this study was conducted to screen the lactate-related biomarkers for LN and analyze the underlying mechanism.

Methods

To identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the training set (GSE32591, GSE127797), we conducted a differential expression analysis (LN samples versus normal samples). Then, module genes were mined using WGCNA concerning LN. The overlapping of DEGs, critical module genes, and lactate-related genes (LRGs) was used to create the lactate-related differentially expressed genes (LR-DEGs). By using a machine-learning algorithm, ROC, and expression levels, biomarkers were discovered. We also carried out an immune infiltration study based on biomarkers and GSEA.

Results

A sum of 1259 DEGs was obtained between LN and normal groups. Then, 3800 module genes in reference to LN were procured. 19 LR-DEGs were screened out by the intersection of DEGs, key module genes, and LRGs. Moreover, 8 pivotal genes were acquired via two machine-learning algorithms. Subsequently, 3 biomarkers related to lactate metabolism were obtained, including COQ2, COQ4, and NDUFV1. And these three biomarkers were enriched in pathways ‘antigen processing and presentation’ and ‘NOD-like receptor signaling pathway’. We found that Macrophages M0 and T cells regulatory (Tregs) were associated with these three biomarkers as well.

Conclusion

Overall, the results indicated that lactate-related biomarkers COQ2, COQ4, and NDUFV1 were associated with LN, which laid a theoretical foundation for the diagnosis and treatment of LN.
Epigenetic modulation of cytokine expression in gastric cancer: influence on angiogenesis, metastasis and chemoresistance
Authors: Reyes María Elena , Pulgar Victoria , Vivallo Carolina , Ili Carmen Gloria , Mora-Lagos Bárbara , Brebi Priscilla
Published: February 2024

Cytokines are proteins that act in the immune response and inflammation and have been associated with the development of some types of cancer, such as gastric cancer (GC). GC is a malignant neoplasm that ranks fifth in incidence and third in cancer-related mortality worldwide, making it a major public health issue. Recent studies have focused on the role these cytokines may play in GC associated with angiogenesis, metastasis, and chemoresistance, which are key factors that can affect carcinogenesis and tumor progression, quality, and patient survival. These inflammatory mediators can be regulated by epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation, histone protein modification, and non-coding RNA, which results in the silencing or overexpression of key genes in GC, presenting different targets of action, either direct or mediated by modifications in key genes of cytokine-related signaling pathways. This review seeks insight into the relationship between cytokine-associated epigenetic regulation and its potential effects on the different stages of development and chemoresistance in GC.
Advances in highly hydrided palladium
Authors: Wang Qianru , Zhang Shengyuan , Guo Jianping , Chen Ping
Published: February 2024

Palladium is a prototypical hydride-forming metal, which can accommodate a large volume of hydrogen through the formation of either interstitial or complex hydrides. Interstitial palladium hydrides, especially those with exceptionally high hydrogen loadings, have attracted considerable interest from the low-energy nuclear reaction (LENR) community, as they have been invoked to explain the anomalous nuclear effects related to the known but controversial Pons-Fleischmann experiment. Complex palladium hydrides also constitute a class of solid-state hydrides that present stoichiometric PdH2, PdH3, or PdH4 units within the crystal structure, but remain unexplored as far as the unusual H/Pd ratio is concerned. This minireview gives a brief introduction to these two types of solid-state palladium hydrides, with the hope of providing some information for materials development relevant to LENR research.
Breast milk preservation: thermal and non-thermal processes and their effect on microorganism inactivation and the content of bioactive and nutritional compounds
Authors: Núñez-Delgado Alejandro , Mizrachi-Chávez Victoria Margarita , Welti-Chanes Jorge , Macher-Quintana Samantha Thania , Chuck-Hernández Cristina
Published: February 2024

Human Breast Milk (HBM) is widely acknowledged as the best nutritional source for neonates. Data indicates that, in 2019, 83.2% of infants in the United States received breast milk at birth, slightly reducing to 78.6% at 1 month. Despite these encouraging early figures, exclusive breastfeeding rates sharply declined, dropping to 24.9% by 6 months. This decline is particularly pronounced when direct breastfeeding is challenging, such as in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICU) and for working mothers. Given this, it is vital to explore alternative breast milk preservation methods. Technologies like Holder Pasteurization (HoP), High-Temperature Short-Time Pasteurization (HTST), High-Pressure Processing (HPP), UV radiation (UV), and Electric Pulses (PEF) have been introduced to conserve HBM. This review aims to enhance the understanding of preservation techniques for HBM, supporting the practice of extended exclusive breastfeeding. It explicitly addresses microbial concerns, focusing on critical pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus, Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Cytomegalovirus, and explores how various preservation methods can mitigate these risks. Additionally, the review highlights the importance of retaining the functional elements of HBM, particularly its immunological components such as antibodies and enzymes like lysozyme and Bile Salt Stimulated Lipase (BSSL). The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of HBM treatment, critically assess existing practices, identify areas needing improvement, and advocate for extended exclusive breastfeeding due to its vital role in ensuring optimal nutrition and overall health in infants.
Case report: Successful treatment of a rare HER2-positive advanced breast squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang Gui , Yang Chenghui , Zeng Donglin , Wang Jihao , Mao Huaxin , Xu Yu , Jiang Chao , Wang Zhen
Published: February 2024

Background: Breast squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is an uncommon and highly aggressive variant of metaplastic breast cancer. Despite its rarity, there is currently no consensus on treatment guidelines for this specific subtype. Previous studies have demonstrated that chemotherapy alone has limited efficacy in treating breast SCC. However, the potential for targeted therapy in combination with chemotherapy holds promise for future treatment options.

Case presentation: In this case report, we present a patient with advanced HER2-positive breast SCC, exhibiting a prominent breast mass, localized ulcers, and metastases in the lungs and brain. Our treatment approach involved the administration of HER2-targeted drugs in conjunction with paclitaxel, resulting in a sustained control of tumor growth.

Conclusion: This case represents a rare occurrence of HER2-positive breast SCC, with limited available data on the efficacy of previous HER2-targeted drugs in treating such patients. Our study presents the first application of HER2-targeted drugs in this particular case, offering novel therapeutic insights for future considerations. Additionally, it is imperative to conduct further investigations to assess the feasibility of treatment options in a larger cohort of patients.
Reserve-building as a buffer for depression among individuals living with disability: a longitudinal study of current activities related to brain health
Authors: Schwartz Carolyn E. , Borowiec Katrina , Rapkin Bruce D.
Published: February 2024

Aims

This study examined whether reserve-building activities are associated with attenuated reported depression among people who were disabled from work due to a medical condition as compared to employed, retired, and unemployed participants.

Methods

This secondary analysis included 771 individuals who provided data at three time points: baseline (late Spring 2020), follow-up 1 (Spring 2021), and follow-up 2 (Fall 2021). The DeltaQuest Reserve-Building Measure assessed current activities related to brain health. An analysis of variance and Pearson correlation coefficients assessed group differences in reserve-building activity scores. Classification and regression tree (CART) modeling investigated factors associated with higher and lower reported depression by employment group. The random effects (RE) models tested two buffering hypotheses: (1) comparing all groups to the employed group and (2) examining within-group effects.

Results

Engaging in outdoor activities, exercise, and religious/spiritual activities was associated with reduced depression over time in the overall sample. While disabled participants endorsed lower levels of being Active in the World, Outdoor activities, and Exercise and higher levels of Inner Life and Passive Media Consumption than the other employment groups, more reserve-building activities distinguished depression levels in the disabled group's CART models compared to the others. Among the disabled, unemployed, and retired participants, engaging in any reserve-building activities was also associated with lower depression scores, which was distinct from the employed participants. In the RE models that used the employed group as the reference category, only the disabled group's level of depression was buffered by engaging in creative activities. In the within-group RE models, the disabled group's engagement in Religious/Spiritual, Outdoors, and Games was associated with substantially reduced within-group depression, which was different from the other employment groups. In contrast, reserve-building activities were not implicated at all as buffers for employed participants.

Conclusion

This study revealed a beneficial effect of reserve-building activities on buffering depression over time during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly for disabled people. It documented that even if such individuals engaged in lesser amounts of such activities as compared to other employment groups, the buffering effect was substantial. Given the low-cost and accessible nature of reserve-building activities, it would be worthwhile to encourage such activities for disabled individuals.
Explaining differences in self-focused and other-involved public health preventive behaviors between the US and China: the role of self- construal and health locus of control
Authors: Pan Wenjing , Liao Wang , Feng Bo , Li Siyue
Published: February 2024

Background

This study examined national similarities and differences in people's engagement in health preventive behaviors during a public health crisis, as well as investigated the underlying individual-level psychological mechanisms. A conceptual distinction was made between self-focused and other-involved preventive behaviors in response to public health crises.

Method

Two cross-sectional surveys were conducted in the United States (N = 888) and China (N = 844) during the early stage of the COVID-19 pandemic. Hayes' PROCESS was utilized to assess national differences in seven preventive behaviors, along with the mediating effects of self-construal and health locus of control.

Results

The results showed that American participants reported greater engagement in self-focused preventive behaviors than Chinese, whereas Chinese participants reported greater engagement in other-involved preventive behaviors than Americans. Chinese participants also engaged more in other-involved than self-focused preventive behaviors. Self-construal and health locus of control partially explained the observed differences in engagement in preventive behaviors.

Discussion

This study introduces a culture-sensitive approach to provide insights for crafting communication interventions that can enhance the effectiveness of health campaigns in the context of a public health crisis.
Gendered relations? Associations between Swedish parents, siblings, and adolescents' time spent sedentary and physically active
Authors: Hoy Sara , Larsson Håkan , Kjellenberg Karin , Nyberg Gisela , Ekblom Örjan , Helgadóttir Björg
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The family is assumed to be fundamental in youth socialization processes and development, connected to social and cultural practices such as healthy lifestyles and physical activity. However, gender patterns in physical activity among adolescents and the structural drivers of gender inequality (e.g., parentage and siblingship) are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to explore further how gender structures relate to adolescents' time spent being sedentary and physically active, using contemporary gender theory.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 1,139 adolescents aged 13-14 and their parents, including 815 mothers and 572 fathers. Physical activity and time spent sedentary were assessed through accelerometry among adolescents and through a self-report questionnaire for parents validated against accelerometry.

Results

The results showed significant relationships between mothers' moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and girls' MVPA on weekdays and weekends, and fathers' MVPA was significantly related to girls' MVPA on weekdays. Our results imply that the relationship between Swedish parents' and adolescent girls' physical activity in higher intensities are to some extent gendered practices. However, time spent sedentary does not seem to show any patterns of being performed according to binary ideas of gender. Further, our exploratory analyses suggest that these results somewhat intersect with parents' educational level and relate to intra-categorical aspects of doing gender. The results also indicate slight gendered patterns in the “doing” of brotherhood for time spent sedentary, however, for boys only on weekends.

Discussion

The study contributes to the understanding of gender norms as constraints and enablers for adolescents' participation in physical activity. The results can spur public health and physical activity research to apply a contemporary gender theory approach, and to expand the research agenda connected to what relates to gender inequalities in physical activity practices.
Pre-hospital telestroke and expanded hyper-acute telestroke network solutions to reduce geographic inequities: a brief review from the South Pacific
Authors: Ranta Anna , Audebert Heinrich J. , Ioane-Cleverley Luatupu
Published: February 2024

Hyper-acute stroke treatments are time sensitive, and decision-making is complex. Telemedicine has been highly effective in breaking down regional access barriers by providing front line rural hospital clinicians with remote telemedicine decision support by remote stroke experts. With the advent of mechanical thrombectomy, hyper-acute stroke care has grown even more complex from both a decision-making and logistical perspective. Mobile Stroke Units (MSU) have been deployed in a few urban settings globally but are unlikely to address all global access issues due to geographical and logistical factors. This paper reviews the feasibility and benefit of extending telestroke into the pre-hospital setting as an adjunct or alternative to MSUs. It will discuss how this service model can fit into existing stroke networks and potential deployment strategies. Finally, the paper also considers potential scalability of pre- and in-hospital telestroke support across regional and international boundaries to further reduce global hyper-acute access inequities.
Theory and Application of the Information Bottleneck Method
Authors: Lewandowsky Jan , Bauch Gerhard
Published: February 2024

In 1999, Naftali Tishby et al [...]
Measurement Error in Thermoelectric Generator Induced by Temperature Fluctuation
Authors: Li Yanan , Yang Hao , Yu Chuanbin , Zhou Wenjie , Zhang Qiang , Hu Haoyang , Sun Peng , Wu Jiehua , Tan Xiaojian , Song Kun , Liu Guoqiang , Jiang Jun
Published: February 2024

The thermal-electric conversion efficiency is a crucial metric for evaluating the performance of a thermoelectric generator (TEG). However, accurate measurement of this efficiency remains a significant challenge due to various factors that impact heat flow measurements. We have observed that temperature fluctuations during temperature control are the primary factor contributing to measurement errors in heat flow under vacuum conditions. To address this issue, we have developed a time-dependent theoretical model for the thermal-electric coupling of a TEG measurement system based on Fourier’s theory of heat conduction. This model allows us to investigate the effects of both temperature fluctuation and structural parameters on the measurement error of TEG performance. Furthermore, we have proposed an error correction scheme for TEG performance based on our theoretical and experimental findings. These insights provide a theoretical framework and technical guidance for more precise measurements of TEG performance.
Review of Experimental Activities and Recent Developments of Spouted Bed Reactors at Different Operational Scales
Authors: Carozzo Valerio , Arato Elisabetta , Moliner Cristina
Published: February 2024

Recent research advances and technological developments of spouted bed reactors (SBRs) have been discussed in this work. SBR has aroused increasing interest since their invention in 1955 due to its flexibility in processing different feedstocks and the high process yields that can be achieved due to its characteristic fluid dynamics. However, even though highly satisfactory results have been obtained at the laboratory scale for different applications (i.e., drying or thermochemical reactions, among others), their full implementation at an industrial level is still scarce, mainly due to the challenges encountered for their scale-up. In this work, an initial short description of SBR and configurations is followed by a review of the main experimental activities that have been conducted at different scales in the period 2013–2023. Advanced solutions such as multi-unit reactors and the use of rectangular geometries instead of the classical cylindrical ones have arisen as potential areas for further study and development to achieve a reliable implementation of the spouted bed technology at an industrial scale.
Exploring Trauma- and Violence-Informed Pregnancy Care for Karen Women of Refugee Background: A Community-Based Participatory Study
Authors: Toke Shadow , Correa-Velez Ignacio , Riggs Elisha
Published: February 2024

Women of refugee background experience poorer perinatal outcomes when compared to their local-born counterparts. Women of refugee background have often experienced trauma and are likely to encounter barriers to accessing health services in host countries which can exacerbate their recovery from trauma and contribute to poor health outcomes. Trauma- and violence-informed approaches to care offer opportunities to address barriers to pregnancy care which may, in turn, improve these poor outcomes. Trauma- and violence-informed care is a framework that acknowledges a person’s experiences of trauma, recognises its impact and symptoms, and works toward resisting re-traumatisation by integrating knowledge into practice. Despite this, trauma- and violence-informed care in maternity care settings has rarely been explored from the perspectives of women of refugee background. This study aimed to explore trauma- and violence-informed pregnancy care from the perspectives of Karen women of refugee background using Community-Based Participatory Research methods. The lead researcher is a Karen–Australian woman with lived refugee experience. A Community Advisory Group was formed to support the study. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven Karen women of refugee background who had recently had a baby in Western metropolitan Melbourne, Australia. The data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic Analysis. Karen women shared what they considered to be important elements of trauma- and violence-informed pregnancy care. Three major elements were identified: (1) care design and accessibility; (2) promoting choice and control; and (3) trauma-informed interpreting. The critical importance of the interpreter-mediated setting was highlighted as women reported that they may not experience trauma- and violence-informed maternity care if they cannot access an interpreter or their relationship with the interpreter is unsafe. This study offers critical insights regarding the elements of trauma- and violence-informed pregnancy care that are important to Karen women of refugee background.
The Vitamin C Enantiomers Possess a Comparable Potency in the Induction of Oxidative Stress in Cancer Cells but Differ in Their Toxicity
Authors: Begimbetova Dinara , Burska Agata N. , Baltabekova Aidana , Kussainova Assiya , Kukanova Assiya , Fazyl Fatima , Ibragimova Milana , Manekenova Kenzhekyz , Makishev Abay , Bersimbaev Rakhmetkazhi I. , Sarbassov Dos D.
Published: February 2024

The use of vitamin C (VC) in high doses demonstrates a potent tumor suppressive effect by mediating a glucose-dependent oxidative stress in Kirsten rat sarcoma (KRAS) mutant cancer cells. VC with arsenic trioxide (ATO) is a promising drug combination that might lead to the development of effective cancer therapeutics. Considering that a tumor suppressive effect of VC requires its high-dose administration, it is of interest to examine the toxicity of two enantiomers of VC (enantiomer d-optical isomer D-VC and natural l-optical isomer L-VC) in vitro and in vivo. We show that the combinations of L-VC with ATO and D-VC with ATO induced a similar cytotoxic oxidative stress in KrasG12D-expressing mutant cancer cells as indicated by a substantial increase in reactive oxidative species (ROS) production and depolarization of mitochondria. To examine the L-VC and D-VC toxicity effects, we administered high doses of D-VC and L-VC to CD1 mice and carried out an evaluation of their toxic effects. The daily injections of L-VC at a dose of 9.2 g/kg for 18 days were lethal to mice, while 80% of mice remained alive following the similar high-dose administration of D-VC. Following the drug injection courses and histopathological studies, we determined that a natural form of VC (L-VC) is more harmful and toxic to mice when compared to the effects caused by the similar doses of D-VC. Thus, our study indicates that the two enantiomers of VC have a similar potency in the induction of oxidative stress in cancer cells, but D-VC has a distinctive lower toxicity in mice compared to L-VC. While the mechanism of a distinctive toxicity between D-VC and L-VC is yet to be defined, our finding marks D-VC as a more preferable option compared to its natural enantiomer L-VC in clinical settings.
Comparative Analysis of Six Complete Plastomes of Tripterospermum spp.
Authors: Tu Xiong-De , Lin Wen-Jun , Fu Hou-Hua , Lin Yi-Zhe , Shen Jun , Chen Shuai , Liu Zhong-Jian , Li Ming-He , Chen Shi-Pin
Published: February 2024

The Tripterospermum, comprising 34 species, is a genus of Gentianaceae. Members of Tripterospermum are mostly perennial, entwined herbs with high medicinal value and rich in iridoids, xanthones, flavonoids, and triterpenes. However, our inadequate understanding of the differences in the plastid genome sequences of Tripterospermum species has severely hindered the study of their evolution and phylogeny. Therefore, we first analyzed the 86 Gentianae plastid genomes to explore the phylogenetic relationships within the Gentianae subfamily where Tripterospermum is located. Then, we analyzed six plastid genomes of Tripterospermum, including two newly sequenced plastid genomes and four previously published plastid genomes, to explore the plastid genomes’ evolution and phylogenetic relationships in the genus Tripterospermum. The Tripterospermum plastomes have a quadripartite structure and are between 150,929 and 151,350 bp in size. The plastomes of Tripterospermum encoding 134 genes were detected, including 86 protein-coding genes (CDS), 37 transfer RNA (tRNA) genes, eight ribosomal RNA (rRNA) genes, and three pseudogenes (infA, rps19, and ycf1). The result of the comparison shows that the Tripterospermum plastomes are very conserved, with the total plastome GC content ranging from 37.70% to 37.79%. In repeat sequence analysis, the number of single nucleotide repeats (A/T) varies among the six Tripterospermum species, and the identified main long repeat types are forward and palindromic repeats. The degree of conservation is higher at the SC/IR boundary. The regions with the highest divergence in the CDS and the intergenic region (IGS) are psaI and rrn4.5-rrn5, respectively. The average pi of the CDS and the IGS are only 0.071% and 0.232%, respectively, indicating that the Tripterospermum plastomes are highly conserved. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that Gentianinae is divided into two clades, with Tripterospermum as a sister to Sinogeniana. Phylogenetic trees based on CDS and CDS + IGS combined matrices have strong support in Tripterospermum. These findings contribute to the elucidation of the plastid genome evolution of Tripterospermum and provide a foundation for further exploration and resource utilization within this genus.
Simultaneous Expression of CD70 and POSTN in Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts Predicts Worse Survival of Colorectal Cancer Patients
Authors: Komura Masayuki , Wang Chengbo , Ito Sunao , Kato Shunsuke , Ueki Akane , Ebi Masahide , Ogasawara Naotaka , Tsuzuki Toyonori , Kasai Kenji , Kasugai Kunio , Takiguchi Shuji , Takahashi Satoru , Inaguma Shingo
Published: February 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common gastrointestinal cancers worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality rates. The evidence for the tumor-supporting capacities of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) that modulate cancer cell proliferation, invasion, metastasis, and tumor immunity, including in CRC, has been attracting attention. The present study examined the expression status of CD70 and POSTN in CRC and analyzed their association with clinicopathological features and clinical outcomes. In the present study, in total 15% (40/269) and 44% (119/269) of cases exhibited CD70 and POSTN expression on CAFs, respectively. Co-expression of CD70 and POSTN was detected in 8% (21/269) of patients. Fluorescent immunohistochemistry identified the co-expression of CD70 and POSTN with FAP and PDPN, respectively. ACTA2 was not co-expressed with CD70 or POSTN in CRC CAFs. CRC with CD70+/POSTN+ status in CAFs was significantly associated with distant organ metastasis (p = 0.0020) or incomplete resection status (p = 0.0011). CD70+/POSTN+ status tended to associate with advanced pT stage (p = 0.032) or peritoneal metastasis (p = 0.0059). Multivariate Cox hazards regression analysis identified CD70+/POSTN+ status in CAFs [hazard ratio (HR) = 3.78] as a potential independent risk factor. In vitro experiments revealed the activated phenotypes of colonic fibroblasts induced by CD70 and POSTN, while migration and invasion assays identified enhanced migration and invasion of CRC cells co-cultured with CD70- and POSTN-expressing colonic fibroblasts. On the basis of our observations, CD70 and POSTN immunohistochemistry can be used in the prognostication of CRC patients. CRC CAFs may be a promising target in the treatment of CRC patients.
Structural Characterization and Functional Analysis of Mevalonate Kinase from Tribolium castaneum (Red Flour Beetle)
Authors: Zheng Haogang , Yang Yuanyuan , Hu Ying , Shi Jiaxuan , Li Qiaohui , Wang Yuanqiang , Xia Qingyou , Guo Pengchao
Published: February 2024

Mevalonate kinase (MevK) is an important enzyme in the mevalonate pathway that catalyzes the phosphorylation of mevalonate into phosphomevalonate and is involved in juvenile hormone biosynthesis. Herein, we present a structure model of MevK from the red flour beetle Tribolium castaneum (TcMevK), which adopts a compact α/β conformation that can be divided into two parts: an N-terminal domain and a C-terminal domain. A narrow, deep cavity accommodating the substrate and cofactor was observed at the junction between the two domains of TcMevK. Computational simulation combined with site-directed mutagenesis and biochemical analyses allowed us to define the binding mode of TcMevK to cofactors and substrates. Moreover, TcMevK showed optimal enzyme activity at pH 8.0 and an optimal temperature of 40 °C for mevalonate as the substrate. The expression profiles and RNA interference of TcMevK indicated its critical role in controlling juvenile hormone biosynthesis, as well as its participation in the production of other terpenoids in T. castaneum. These findings improve our understanding of the structural and biochemical features of insect Mevk and provide a structural basis for the design of MevK inhibitors.
Measurement and Analysis of the Vibration Responses of Piano Soundboards with Different Structures
Authors: He Lan , Liang Yuwei , Zhang Liang , Zhou Jing , Wang Ruofan , Liu Zhenbo
Published: February 2024

The effect of structure on the vibration response was explored for four piano soundboards with different but commonly adopted structures. The vibration response was obtained using the free-vibration method, and the values of the dynamic modulus of elasticity and dynamic shear modulus obtained using the free-vibration frequency method (EF and GF) were compared with the dynamic modulus of elasticity obtained using the Euler beam method (EE) and dynamic shear modulus obtained using the free-plate torsional vibration method (GT), respectively. It was found that the soundboards with different structures had different vibration modes and that excitation at different locations highlighted different vibration modes. For all the soundboards analyzed, the EE and GT were higher than EF and GF by 2.2% and 24.3%, respectively. However, the trends of the results of these methods were the same. The four piano soundboards with different structures possessed varying dynamic moduli of elasticity and dynamic shear moduli. These rules are consistent with the grain directions of the soundboards and the anisotropy of the wood (the direction of the units of the soundboards). The results show that the vibration mode of the piano soundboard is complex. The dynamic elastic modulus of the soundboard can be calculated using the Euler beam method. The results provide a reference for studies on the vibration response, material selection, production technology, and testing of piano soundboards.
Revealing the Proximity of Concrete Specimens to Their Critical Damage Level by Exploring the Cumulative Counts of the Acoustic Emissions in the Natural Time Domain
Authors: Triantis Dimos , Pasiou Ermioni D. , Stavrakas Ilias , Kourkoulis Stavros K.
Published: February 2024

This study aims to explore the possibility of detecting indices that could potentially provide warning about the proximity of internal damage to critical levels, beyond which catastrophic fracture is impending. In this direction, advantage was taken of the Cumulative Counts that were recorded during the mechanical loading of specimens made of either plain or fiber-reinforced concrete. The parameter adopted for the analysis was the average rate of change in the Cumulative Counts. Τhe evolution of the specific parameter was considered in the Natural Time Domain, rather than in the conventional time domain. Experimental data from already published three-point bending protocols were used. It was revealed that the specific parameter attains, systematically, a limiting value equal to unity exactly at the instant at which the load reaches its maximum value, which is not identical to the load recorded at the instant of fracture. Similar observations were made for a complementary protocol with uniaxially compressed mortar specimens. The conclusions drawn were supported by the b-values analysis of the respective acoustic data, again in terms of Natural Time. It is, thus, indicated that the evolution of the average rate of change in the Cumulative Counts in the Natural Time Domain provides an index about the proximity of the applied load to a value beyond which the specimen enters into the critical state of impending fracture.
Model Averaging for Accelerated Failure Time Models with Missing Censoring Indicators
Authors: Liao Longbiao , Liu Jinghao
Published: February 2024

Model averaging has become a crucial statistical methodology, especially in situations where numerous models vie to elucidate a phenomenon. Over the past two decades, there has been substantial advancement in the theory of model averaging. However, a gap remains in the field regarding model averaging in the presence of missing censoring indicators. Therefore, in this paper, we present a new model-averaging method for accelerated failure time models with right censored data when censoring indicators are missing. The model-averaging weights are determined by minimizing the Mallows criterion. Under mild conditions, the calculated weights exhibit asymptotic optimality, leading to the model-averaging estimator achieving the lowest squared error asymptotically. Monte Carlo simulations demonstrate that the method proposed in this paper has lower mean squared errors compared to other model-selection and model-averaging methods. Finally, we conducted an empirical analysis using the real-world Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) dataset. The results of the empirical analysis demonstrate that the method proposed in this paper outperforms existing approaches in terms of predictive performance.