bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coptis rhizome extract influence on Streptococcus pneumoniae through autolysin activation
Authors: Lee Eon-Bee , Lee Kyubae
Published: July 2024

This study investigated the antibacterial properties of Coptis rhizome, a plant traditionally used for respiratory infections, against Streptoccus pneumonia (S. pneumoniae), for which there has been minimal empirical evidence of effectiveness. The study particularly examined autolysis, indirectly associated with antibacterial resistance, when using Coptis rhizome for bacterial infections. In our methodology, Coptis rhizome was processed with ethanol and distilled water to produce four different extracts: CRET30, CRET50, CRET70, and CRDW. The antibacterial activity of these extracts were tested through Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) assays, disk diffusion tests, and time-kill assays, targeting both standard (ATCC 49619) and resistant (ATCC 70067) strains. The study also evaluated the extracts’ biofilm inhibition properties and monitored the expression of the lyt gene, integral to autolysis. The results prominently showed that the CRET70 extract demonstrated remarkable antibacterial strength. It achieved an MIC of 0.125 µg/mL against both tested S. pneumoniae strains. The disk diffusion assay recorded inhibition zones of 22.17 mm for ATCC 49619 and 17.20 mm for ATCC 70067. Impressively, CRET70 resulted in a 2-log decrease in bacterial numbers for both strains, showcasing its potent bactericidal capacity. The extract was also effective in inhibiting 77.40% of biofilm formation. Additionally, the significant overexpression of the lytA gene in the presence of CRET70 pointed to a potential mechanism of action for its antibacterial effects. The outcomes provided new perspectives on the use of Coptis rhizome in combating S. pneumoniae, especially significant in an era of escalating antibiotic resistance.
Recruitment-to-inflation ratio reflects the impact of peep on dynamic lung strain in a highly recruitable model of ARDS
Authors: Murgolo Francesco , Grieco Domenico L. , Spadaro Savino , Bartolomeo Nicola , di Mussi Rossella , Pisani Luigi , Fiorentino Marco , Crovace Alberto Maria , Lacitignola Luca , Staffieri Francesco , Grasso Salvatore
Published: July 2024

Background

The recruitment-to-inflation ratio (R/I) has been recently proposed to bedside assess response to PEEP. The impact of PEEP on ventilator-induced lung injury depends on the extent of dynamic strain reduction. We hypothesized that R/I may reflect the potential for lung recruitment (i.e. recruitability) and, consequently, estimate the impact of PEEP on dynamic lung strain, both assessed through computed tomography scan.

Methods

Fourteen lung-damaged pigs (lipopolysaccharide infusion) underwent ventilation at low (5 cmH2O) and high PEEP (i.e., PEEP generating a plateau pressure of 28–30 cmH2O). R/I was measured through a one-breath derecruitment maneuver from high to low PEEP. PEEP-induced changes in dynamic lung strain, difference in nonaerated lung tissue weight (tissue recruitment) and amount of gas entering previously nonaerated lung units (gas recruitment) were assessed through computed tomography scan. Tissue and gas recruitment were normalized to the weight and gas volume of previously ventilated lung areas at low PEEP (normalized-tissue recruitment and normalized-gas recruitment, respectively).

Results

Between high (median [interquartile range] 20 cmH2O [18–21]) and low PEEP, median R/I was 1.08 [0.88–1.82], indicating high lung recruitability. Compared to low PEEP, tissue and gas recruitment at high PEEP were 246 g [182–288] and 385 ml [318–668], respectively. R/I was linearly related to normalized-gas recruitment (r = 0.90; [95% CI 0.71 to 0.97) and normalized-tissue recruitment (r = 0.69; [95% CI 0.25 to 0.89]). Dynamic lung strain was 0.37 [0.29–0.44] at high PEEP and 0.59 [0.46–0.80] at low PEEP (p < 0.001). R/I was significantly related to PEEP-induced reduction in dynamic (r = − 0.93; [95% CI − 0.78 to − 0.98]) and global lung strain (r = − 0.57; [95% CI − 0.05 to − 0.84]). No correlation was found between R/I and and PEEP-induced changes in static lung strain (r = 0.34; [95% CI − 0.23 to 0.74]).

Conclusions

In a highly recruitable ARDS model, R/I reflects the potential for lung recruitment and well estimates the extent of PEEP-induced reduction in dynamic lung strain.
Upper bound for the second and third Hankel determinants of analytic functions associated with the error function and q-convolution combination
Authors: Srivastava Hari M. , Breaz Daniel , Alburaikan Alhanouf , El-Deeb Sheza M.
Published: July 2024

Recently, El-Deeb and Cotîrlă (Mathematics 11:11234834, 2023) used the error function together with a q-convolution to introduce a new operator. By means of this operator the following class $\mathcal{R}_{\alpha ,\Upsilon}^{\lambda ,q}(\delta ,\eta )$

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, we give upper bounds for the Fekete–Szegö functional and for the second and third Hankel determinants.
Reactions of adolescent cyber bystanders toward different victims of cyberbullying: the role of parental rearing behaviors
Authors: Chen Qiqi
Published: July 2024

Background

Group-based situations are common settings for cyberbullying, making bystander responses crucial in combating this issue. This study investigated how adolescent bystanders respond to various victims, including family members, friends, teachers, and celebrities. This study also examined how different parenting styles influenced children’s cyber bystander involvement.

Methods

This study employed data from a cross-sectional school survey covering 1,716 adolescents aged 13–18 years from public and vocational schools in China collected in 2022. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to measure demographic characteristics, cyberbullying experiences, and parental rearing behaviors in predicting bystander reactions.

Results

The findings showed that middle school students preferred to “ask for help” while high school students tended to choose “call the police” when witnessing cyberbullying incidents. Bystanders growing up with parental rejection and overprotection, having previous cyberbullying victimization experiences, where the victims were disliked by them, exhibited fewer defensive reactions.

Conclusions

This study has implications for future research and practices involving parental involvement in cyber bystander interventions, which could provide implications for future practice in designing specific intervention programs for cyberbullying bystander behavior. Future research and interventions against cyberbullying may provide individualized training including parents’ positive parenting skills and parent-child interactions.
Research on intelligent monitoring technology for roof damage of traditional Chinese residential buildings based on improved YOLOv8: taking ancient villages in southern Fujian as an example
Authors: Qiu Haochen , Zhang Jiahao , Zhuo Lingchen , Xiao Qi , Chen Zhihong , Tian Hua
Published: July 2024

In the process of preserving historical buildings in southern Fujian, China, it is crucial to provide timely and accurate statistical data to classify the damage of traditional buildings. In this study, a method based on the improved YOLOv8 neural network is proposed to select aerial photographs of six villages in Xiamen and Quanzhou cities in Fujian Province as the dataset, which contains a total of 3124 photographs. Based on the high-resolution orthophotographs obtained from UAV tilt photography, the YOLOv8 model was used to make predictions. The main task in the first stage is to select the buildings with historical value in the area, and the model's mAP (Mean Accuracy Rate) can reach 97.2% in the first stage task. The second stage uses the YOLOv8 model to segment the images selected in the first stage, detecting possible defects on the roofs, including collapses, missing tiles, unsuitable architectural additions, and vegetation encroachment. In the second stage of the segmentation task, the mAP reaches 89.4%, which is a 1.5% improvement in mAP50 (mean accuracy) compared to the original YOLOv8 model, and the number of parameters and GFLOPs are reduced by 22% and 15%, respectively. This method can effectively improve the disease detection efficiency of historical built heritage in southern Fujian under complex terrain and ground conditions.
Integrated transcriptome and metabolome analysis reveals the molecular responses of Pardosa pseudoannulata to hypoxic environments
Authors: Li Jinjin , Tang Yun-e , Lv Bo , Wang Juan , Wang Zhi , Song Qisheng
Published: July 2024

Terrestrial organisms are likely to face hypoxic stress during natural disasters such as floods or landslides, which can lead to inevitable hypoxic conditions for those commonly residing within soil. Pardosa pseudoannulata often inhabits soil crevices and has been extensively studied, yet research on its response to hypoxic stress remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated the adaptive strategies of Pardosa pseudoannulata under hypoxic stress using metabolomics and transcriptomics approaches. The results indicated that under hypoxic stress, metabolites related to energy and antioxidants such as ATP, D-glucose 6-phosphate, flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD), and reduced L-glutathione were significantly differentially expressed. Pathways such as the citric acid (TCA) cycle and oxidative phosphorylation were significantly enriched. Transcriptome analysis and related assessments also revealed a significant enrichment of pathways associated with energy metabolism, suggesting that Pardosa pseudoannulata primarily copes with hypoxic environments by modulating energy metabolism and antioxidant-related substances.
Application of QPSO-BPSO in fault self-healing of distributed power distribution networks
Authors: Liu Xuan , Liu Meng , Yin Hong
Published: July 2024

With the widespread application of distributed power sources in distribution networks, fault self-healing technology has become the key to ensuring the reliability of power systems. The micro-grid ensures system stability with a three-layer structure, where the designed method handles optimization problems, achieving faster global search and optimal solutions. Agents develop targeted recovery strategies by understanding network load, which are then executed by higher-level agents to ensure that the optimal recovery command is implemented by the system. According to the research results, during peak load, the system successfully outputted 7 kilowatts and met the load demand through battery discharge, demonstrating its self-healing ability. The output analysis of photovoltaic and wind turbines showed that the system reasonably scheduled within 24 h according to the changes in solar energy and wind power. Based on the quantum behavior particle swarm optimization algorithm, the system has achieved lower active power loss and greater power supply capacity. Although the number of switch operations has increased, the system performance has significantly improved, meeting the requirements for improving system economy and safety. It has promoting effects on the sustainable development of future power systems.
Patients’ and caregivers’ perception of multidimensional and palliative care in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – protocol of a German multicentre study
Authors: Linse Katharina , Weber Constanze , Reilich Peter , Schöberl Florian , Boentert Matthias , Petri Susanne , Rödiger Annekathrin , Posa Andreas , Otto Markus , Wolf Joachim , Zeller Daniel , Brunkhorst Robert , Koch Jan , Hermann Andreas , Großkreutz Julian , Schröter Carsten , Groß Martin , Lingor Paul , Machetanz Gerrit , Semmler Luisa , Dorst Johannes , Lulé Dorothée , Ludolph Albert , Meyer Thomas , Maier André , Metelmann Moritz , Regensburger Martin , Winkler Jürgen , Schrank Berthold , Kohl Zacharias , Hagenacker Tim , Brakemeier Svenja , Weyen Ute , Weiler Markus , Lorenzl Stefan , Bublitz Sarah , Weydt Patrick , Grehl Torsten , Kotterba Sylvia , Lapp Hanna-Sophie , Freigang Maren , Vidovic Maximilian , Aust Elisa , Günther René
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an inevitably fatal condition that leads to a progressive loss of physical functioning, which results in a high psychosocial burden and organizational challenges related to medical care. Multidimensional and multiprofessional care is advised to meet the complex needs of patients and their families. Many healthcare systems, including Germany, may not be able to meet these needs because non-medical services such as psychological support or social counselling are not regularly included in the care of patients with ALS (pwALS). Specialised neuropalliative care is not routinely implemented nor widely available. Caregivers of pwALS are also highly burdened, but there is still a lack of support services for them.

Methods

This project aims to assess the perceptions and satisfaction with ALS care in Germany in pwALS and their caregivers. This will be achieved by means of a cross-sectional, multicentre survey. The examination will assess, to which extend the patients’ needs in the six domains of physical, psychological, social, spiritual, practical and informational are being met by current care structures. This assessment will be linked to mental well-being, subjective quality of life, attitudes toward life-sustaining measures and physician-assisted suicide, and caregiver burden. The study aims to recruit 500 participants from nationwide ALS centres in order to draw comprehensive conclusions for Germany. A total of 29 centres, mostly acquired via the clinical and scientific German Network for Motor Neuron Diseases (MND-NET), will take part in the project, 25 of which have already started recruitment.

Perspective

It is intended to provide data-based starting points on how current practice of care in Germany is perceived pwALS and their caregivers and how it can be improved according to their needs. Planning and initiation of the study has been completed.

Trial registration

The study is registered at ClinicalTrails.gov; NCT06418646
Cytological and ultrastructural investigation of pathogen infection pathway and host responses in asparagus stem infected by Phomopsis asparagi
Authors: Sun Liping , Li Yange , Li Xiaoting , Ruan Xinyi , Zhao Yueyan , Wen Ruidong , Wei Shuaijie , Chen Ning , Zhang Yulan , Li Shufen , Gao Wujun
Published: July 2024

Asparagus stem blight, a highly destructive disease in global asparagus cultivation, is caused by the fungus Phomopsis asparagi. However, the underlying mechanisms of the infectious process and pathogenesis of P. asparagi remain poorly understood. This study aims to elucidate the infection event of P. asparagi at the cytological and ultrastructural levels in asparagus stem through a microscopic observation. The host responses were also examined by microscopic observation and fluorescent probe. It revealed that P. asparagi germinated at either the tip or the middle of the conidia to produce short germ tubes on the surfaces of the asparagus stem at 20 h post-inoculation (hpi). The germ tubes penetrated the host cell wall with appressorium-like structures or narrow pegs at 1 day post-inoculation (dpi). At 3 − 5 dpi, a large number of P. asparagi hyphae colonized the epidermal cells. The hyphae were found to grow both intracellularly and intercellularly. The movement of hyphae between cells was facilitated by constricted invasive hyphae pegs. The hyphae exhibited bidirectional intracellular growth, extending and branching along the inner side of the cell wall within the stem cortex and towards the central cylinder. The fungal colonization resulted in cellular damage in plants, which is characterized by plasmolysis, rupture of the cell wall, and disruption of the cytoplasm. At 11 dpi, the fungi penetrated the parenchyma cells, and the fungal pycnidia were formed. At 13 dpi, the fungi penetrated the stem center parenchyma cell, where the conidia were released. In addition, the host defense response was investigated, which revealed a notably reduced germination rate of conidium, the formation of callose analogs, and the reactive oxygen burst. These findings provide unexpected perspectives on the infection process and host response in P. asparagi-plant interaction.
Symptomatic remission and its associated factors among patients with schizophrenia on risperidone or olanzapine at Amanuel mental specialized hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Beyene Melak Gedamu , Teferra Solomon , Fenta Teferi Gedif
Published: July 2024

Background

Schizophrenia is a debilitating condition that affects 1% of the global population. Understanding the prevalence and the factors predicting schizophrenia remission is crucial for healthcare providers. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of remission and factors affecting the remission. Cross-sectional study was conducted at the Amanuel Mental Specialized Hospital from 3 October, 2022, to 31 August, 2023, and included 271 participants. Remission was measured using Remission in Schizophrenia Working Group (RSWG) symptom severity-based criteria. Data analysis was done using SPSS V.25.

Results

The mean age of participants was 34.2 with standard deviation (SD) of 10.5 years. Most were male (90%), unmarried (63.8%), lived with their relatives (91.9%), and were unemployed (56.5%). Fifty-two percent achieved symptomatic remission. Remission in patients with medication switched to SGAs increased by 1.9 times compared to patients without medication switch (AOR 1.9, 95% CI: 1.1, 1.2). Adherent patients had 2.7 times higher odds of symptomatic remission as compared to non-adherent patients (AOR 2.7, 95% CI: 1.5,4.9), and for each unit increase in body mass index (BMI), the odds of achieving symptomatic remission were increased by 13% (AOR 1.13, 95% CI: 1.04, 1.23). The odds of symptomatic remission decreased by 71% in patients experiencing moderate-to-severe side effects compared to their counterparts (AOR 0.29, 95% CI: 0.1, 0.6).

Conclusions

Our study revealed a symptomatic remission was achieved in 141 (52%) of the subjects. There is a possibility to improve symptomatic remission with counseling on the importance of adherence, monitoring and managing side effects, and switching medication to either risperidone or olanzapine. Measuring remission using RSWG time-based criteria is recommended.
Moderating effect of institutional quality on the influence of debt on investment in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Ojeka Obaike John , Egbetunde Tajudeen , Okoduwa Gideon Oseibibi , Ojeyode Aisha Omobolanle , Jimoh Mumuni , Ogunbowale Gideon Oladele
Published: July 2024

The relationship between external debt and economic growth has been extensively studied by researchers and policymakers. However, the link between external debt and domestic investment remains an underexplored area of research. Therefore, this paper investigates the nexus between external debt and domestic investment, using institutional quality as a moderator. The sample consists of 47 sub-Saharan African countries with data spanning from 1996 to 2021. The empirical findings from conventional and robust estimators indicate that external debt negatively and significantly hampers domestic investment, while institutional quality plays a significant moderating role in this relationship. Additionally, the benefits of debt can only be realized by the SSA region when the average quality of institutions is above − 1.174 on the scale of − 2.5 to 2.5. The in-depth analysis offers insights that high-quality institutions (above a certain threshold) can help countries leverage debt for positive outcomes by promoting efficient resource allocation and attracting further investment. Thus, policymakers are advised to uphold debt management strategies and institutional reforms, such as reducing corruption, improving property rights, and strengthening the rule of law, to ensure transparency in debt use and maintain a sustainable debt burden. This will create a more attractive environment for both domestic and foreign investment. The results remain robust to alternative methodologies.
Interleukin-17 as a biomarker for lupus nephritis: correlation with disease activity indices and histopathological classification
Authors: Ahmed Aya M. , Ahmed Abdullatif A. , Ismail Faten , Elsayed Sahar A.
Published: July 2024

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN) is one of the devastating manifestations of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It is a leading cause of death in SLE patients. Interleukin 17(IL-17) is involved in the development of several autoimmune diseases. It causes inflammation and organ damage by exaggerating the immune response and augmenting antibody production by B cells. We assessed the role of IL-17A in LN and its relation to other markers of disease activity and different histopathological classes.

Results

We evaluated serum IL-17A in forty LN patients and thirty SLE patients without LN (non-LN). We found that LN patients had a significantly higher IL-17A level in comparison to non-LN. In the LN group, IL-17A was positively correlated with the systemic lupus erythematosus disease activity index (SLEDAI), protein/creatinine (P/C) ratio, 24-hour urinary proteins, anti-nucleosome, and anti-dsDNA antibodies and negatively correlated with C3 and C4. IL-17A was higher in class III and IV compared to class II and V LN. ROC curve analysis of IL-17A revealed 75% sensitivity and 76.7% specificity for LN, and the AUC was 0.791.

Conclusion

Lupus nephritis patients have a higher serum level of IL-17A than those without LN, which is more pronounced in patients with class-III and IV LN. Moreover, IL-17A has good sensitivity and specificity for LN and correlates with the disease activity indices; hence, it may be a prognostic marker for LN in SLE patients.
Inadequate Glucagon Suppression During OGTT in Prediabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Chang Lina , Liu Ying , Gu Yian , Yan Siyu , Ding Li , Liu Ming , He Qing
Published: July 2024

Context

Glucagon plays a role in the development of type 2 diabetes, yet its role in prediabetes (preDM) remains uncertain.

Objective

To evaluate glucagon levels in the fasting state and its response to glucose inhibition in preDM through meta-analysis.

Methods

A systematic search across Pubmed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library identified studies assessing glucagon levels during 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in both preDM and normal glucose tolerance (NGT) cohorts. Data on glucagon, glucose, and insulin were pooled using a random-effect model.

Results

Although glucagon levels decreased in both preDM and NGT groups upon glucose challenge, glucagon levels at 0 hours, 0.5 hours, 1 hour, and 1.5 hours in preDM were significantly higher compared to NGT, despite higher glucose levels at all time points and higher insulin levels at 0 hours, 1 hour, 1.5 hours, and 2 hours during OGTT. Subgroup analysis revealed that in studies using the radioimmunoassay method, glucagon levels in preDM were higher at 0.5 hours and 1 hour than NGT, while in studies using the ELISA method, glucagon levels were similar to those of the NGT group despite higher glucose in preDM compared to NGT. Fasting glucagon level was inadequately suppressed in both impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and impaired fasting glucose (IFG). Responsiveness to glucose inhibition was preserved in IFG, while glucagon level in IGT group at 0.5 hours after glucose intake was not suppressed and was higher than NGT.

Conclusion

Glucagon was not adequately suppressed during OGTT in preDM. Glucagon dysregulation is a contributing mechanism underlying both IFG and IGT.
Vitamin D Receptor Regulates Liver Regeneration After Partial Hepatectomy in Male Mice
Authors: Elangovan Harendran , Stokes Rebecca A , Keane Jeremy , Chahal Sarinder , Samer Caroline , Agoncillo Miguel , Yu Josephine , Chen Jennifer , Downes Michael , Evans Ronald M , Liddle Christopher , Gunton Jenny E
Published: July 2024

Vitamin D signals through the vitamin D receptor (VDR) to induce its end-organ effects. Hepatic stellate cells control development of liver fibrosis in response to stressors and vitamin D signaling decreases fibrogenesis. VDR expression in hepatocytes is low in healthy liver, and the role of VDR in hepatocyte proliferation is unclear. Hepatocyte-VDR null mice (hVDR) were used to assess the role of VDR and vitamin D signaling in hepatic regeneration.

hVDR mice have impaired liver regeneration and impaired hepatocyte proliferation associated with significant differential changes in bile salts. Notably, mice lacking hepatocyte VDR had significant increases in expression of conjugated bile acids after partial hepatectomy, consistent with failure to normalize hepatic function by the 14-day time point tested. Real-time PCR of hVDR and control livers showed significant changes in expression of cell-cycle genes including cyclins D1 and E1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 2. Gene expression profiling of hepatocytes treated with vitamin D or control showed regulation of groups of genes involved in liver proliferation, hepatitis, liver hyperplasia/hyperproliferation, and liver necrosis/cell death. Together, these studies demonstrate an important functional role for VDR in hepatocytes during liver regeneration. Combined with the known profibrotic effects of impaired VDR signaling in stellate cells, the studies provide a mechanism whereby vitamin D deficiency would both reduce hepatocyte proliferation and permit fibrosis, leading to significant liver compromise.
The intracellular domain of Sema6A is essential for development of the zebrafish retina
Authors: Dumas Caroline M. , St. Clair Riley M. , Lasseigne Abagael M. , Ballif Bryan A. , Ebert Alicia M.
Published: July 2024

Semaphorin6A (Sema6A) is a repulsive guidance molecule that plays many roles in central nervous system, heart and bone development, as well as immune system responses and cell signaling in cancer. Loss of Sema6A or its receptor PlexinA2 in zebrafish leads to smaller eyes and improper retinal patterning. Here, we investigate a potential role for the Sema6A intracellular domain in zebrafish eye development and dissect which phenotypes rely on forward signaling and which rely on reverse signaling. We performed rescue experiments on zebrafish Sema6A morphants with either full-length Sema6A (Sema6A-FL) or Sema6A lacking its intracellular domain (Sema6A-ΔC). We identified that the intracellular domain is not required for eye size and retinal patterning, however it is required for retinal integrity, the number and end feet strength of Müller glia and protecting against retinal cell death. This novel function for the intracellular domain suggests a role for Sema6A reverse signaling in zebrafish eye development.
Lipid droplet dynamics are essential for the development of the malaria parasite Plasmodium falciparum
Authors: Lee Jiwon , Matuschewski Kai , van Dooren Giel , Maier Alexander G. , Rug Melanie
Published: July 2024

Lipid droplets (LDs) are organelles that are central to lipid and energy homeostasis across all eukaryotes. In the malaria-causing parasite Plasmodium falciparum the roles of LDs in lipid acquisition from its host cells and their metabolism are poorly understood, despite the high demand for lipids in parasite membrane synthesis. We systematically characterised LD size, composition and dynamics across the disease-causing blood infection. Applying split fluorescence emission analysis and three-dimensional (3D) focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM), we observed a decrease in LD size in late schizont stages. LD contraction likely signifies a switch from lipid accumulation to lipid utilisation in preparation for parasite egress from host red blood cells. We demonstrate connections between LDs and several parasite organelles, pointing to potential functional interactions. Chemical inhibition of triacylglyerol (TAG) synthesis or breakdown revealed essential LD functions for schizogony and in counteracting lipid toxicity. The dynamics of lipid synthesis, storage and utilisation in P. falciparum LDs might provide a target for new anti-malarial intervention strategies.
Ο ποιητής και ο πρωτοστράτωρ
Authors: Ευαγγέλου Ελένη
Published: July 2024

Η διατριβή αυτή ασχολείται με τον ποιητή Μανουήλ Φιλή και τον πρωτοστράτορα Μιχαήλ Δούκα Γλαβά Ταρχανειώτη, προσπαθώντας να φωτίσει τη μεταξύ τους σχέση. Στο πρώτο κεφάλαιο της μελέτης περιλαμβάνεται επισκόπηση της έρευνας, η οποία παρουσιάζεται με χρονολογική σειρά. Στο δεύτερο κεφάλαιο εξετάζεται ο βίος του Μανουήλ Φιλή και του Μιχαήλ Γλαβά, καθώς και εννέα έμμετρα κείμενα που μαρτυρούν τις επιθυμίες και τις προσδοκίες του ποιητή, αλλά και τα σημεία καμπής στον βίο των υποστηρικτών του. Το τρίτο κεφάλαιο της διατριβής περιλαμβάνει τα μνημεία που συνδέονται με την κτητορική δραστηριότητα του Μιχαήλ και της Μαρίας Γλαβά, κάποια από τα οποία κοσμούνται μέχρι σήμερα με στίχους του Φιλή. Στο τέταρτο και τελευταίο κεφάλαιο, εξετάζονται επιγράμματα που συνέθεσε ο ποιητής για να συνοδεύσουν αφιερώματα του Μιχαήλ Γλαβά και της οικογένειάς του. Τα 28 έμμετρα κείμενα που αποτέλεσαν το κυρίως σώμα της παρούσας διατριβής, αποκαλύπτουν ενδιαφέρουσες πτυχές του θεσμού της χορηγίας κατά την πρώιμη Παλαιολόγεια περίοδο.
Excitation of heliumlike C4+ and O6+ projectile ions in collisions with He targets
Authors: Λαουτάρης Άγγελος
Published: July 2024

Αξιοποιώντας τον ήδη υπάρχοντα φασματογράφο ηλεκτρονίων δέσμης μηδέν μοιρών της πειραματικής διάταξης APAPES (Atomic Physics with Accelerators: Projectile Electron Spectroscopy) και τις ηλιοειδείς δέσμες ιόντων C4+ και O6+ προερχόμενες από τον 5.5 MV επιταχυντή tandem Van de Graaff του «Δημόκριτου», πραγματοποιήθηκαν μετρήσεις K-Auger ηλεκτρονίων δέσμης ιόντων, μέσω κρούσεων με στόχους αερίου He στην ενεργειακή περιοχή 0.5-1.5 MeV/u. Οι ηλιοειδέις δέσμες εν γένει συνυπάρχουν σε ένα μείγμα των 1s2 1S, 1s2s 1S και 1s2s 3S καταστάσεων, οπότε συμπεριλαμβάνονται διαδικασίες προερχόμενες και από τις τρεις αυτές αρχικές καταστάσεις. Ποίο συγκεκριμένα η παρούσα δουλειά εστιάζει στις επόμενες δύο διαδικασίες κατά την διάρκεια κρούσεων:Xq+(1s2) + He →X(q+1)+(1s2p2 2D) + He+(All) (Transfer-Excitation) (1) ↳Xq+(1s2) + e-A (θ=0ο) (2)καιXq+(1s2, 1s2s 3,1S) + He →Xq+(2s2p 3,1P) + He(All) (Projectile Excitation) (3) ↳ X(q-1)+(1s) + e-A (θ=0ο) (4) όπου το Xq+ αναφέρεται στη δέσμη ιόντων άνθρακα C4+ ή οξυγόνου O6+. Η δεύτερη γραμμή κάθε διεργασίας δείχνει την εκπομπή του ηλεκτρονίου Auger και την ανίχνευσή του σε θ=0 μοίρες.Στην παρούσα διατριβή προσδιορίστηκαν οι ενεργές διατομές για την παραγωγή των καταστάσεων 1s2p2 2D, 2s2p 3P και 2s2p 1P, προκειμένου να μελετηθούν οι ατομικές διεργασίες transfer excitation (TE) και single ή double excitation της δέσμης ιόντων. Οι μετρήσεις συνοδεύονται επίσης από close coupling (CC) υπολογισμούς στους οποίους έχουν συμπεριληφθεί για πρώτη φορά τρία ηλεκτρόνια (3eAOCC) με ενεργό ρόλο κατά την κρούση, σε μια προσπάθεια να ριχθεί περαιτέρω φως σε αυτές τις πολύπλοκες διεργασίες πολλών ηλεκτρονίων. Οι υπολογισμένες ενεργές διατομές για την παραγωγή 1s2p2 2D από 1s2 1S μέσω TE, τόσο για άνθρακα όσο και για οξυγόνο, βρέθηκαν να συμφωνούν με τις πειραματικές μετρήσεις φασματοσκοπίας Auger μηδέν μοιρών που καλύπτουν το μέγιστο της resonance κορυφής και την πλευρά των υψηλών ενεργειών. Σε χαμηλότερες ενέργειες, τα θεωρητικά αποτελέσματα δείχνουν ένα δεύτερο μέγιστο που ερμηνεύεται πρόσφατα [1] μέσω ενός nonresonant one-step transfer excitation μηχανισμού. Στην περίπτωση των καταστάσεων 2s2p 3P και 2s2p 1P οι 3eAOCC υπολογισμοί ενεργών διατομών μετατράπηκαν σε Auger electron normalized yields για μια άμεση σύγκριση μεταξύ θεωρίας και πειράματος, καθώς οι καταστάσεις 2s2p 3P και 2s2p 1P μπορούν να εποικηθούν και από τις τρεις 1s2 1S, 1s2s 1S και 1s2s 3S καταστάσεις μέσω διαφορετικών διεργασιών. Παρόλο που θεωρία και πειραματικές μετρήσεις φαίνεται να έχουν παρόμοια ενεργειακή εξάρτηση, τα θεωρητικά αποτελέσματα σε αυτήν την περίπτωση είναι γενικά μικρότερα από τα πειραματικά, αφήνοντας χώρο για συζήτηση σχετικά με τους πιθανούς λόγους που συμβαίνει αυτό[1] A. Laoutaris, S. Nanos, I. Madesis, S. Passalidis, E. P. Benis, A. Dubois, and T. J. M. Zouros, Phys. Rev. A 106, 022810 (2022).
Essays on optimal investments for pension funds
Authors: Μπλόντζου Ευμορφία
Published: July 2024

Ολόκληρη η έρευνα εμπίπτει στο γενικό θέμα της μοντελοποίησης της βέλτιστης επενδυτικής στρατηγικής των συνταξιοδοτικών ταμείων και την αξιολόγηση της τιμής των συνταξιοδοτικών πλάνων. Αυτή η διδακτορική διατριβή είναι μια συλλογή τριών διαφορετικών εργασιών με σημαντικές συνεισφορές. Το Κεφάλαιο με τίτλο: «Αποτίμηση Συνταξιοδοτικών Πλάνων σε Διακριτές μη Πλήρεις Αγορές», εστιάζει στην αποτίμηση του συνταξιοδοτικού πλάνου που έχει σχεδιαστεί για ένα μεμονωμένο συνταξιοδοτικό μέλος και εξετάζει πώς τα κίνητρα του διαχειριστή του συνταξιοδοτικού ταμείου μπορούν να οδηγήσουν σε αύξηση του κινδύνου που αναλαμβάνει. Στο μοντέλο μας υποθέτουμε το ρεαλιστικό σενάριο της μη πλήρους αγοράς και θεωρούμε οτι η υποσχεθείσα σύνταξη στο συνταξιοδοτικό μέλος την ημέρα της συνταξιοδότησής του είναι μη αντισταθμίσιμη. Για αυτό, προτείνουμε έναν εναλλακτικό τρόπο από αυτούς που ακολουθούν στη σχετική βιβλιογραφία. Δηλαδή, θεωρούμε ένα μοντέλο μη πλήρους αγοράς σε έναν πεπερασμένο χώρο και διακριτό χρόνο. Η απλούστερη εκδοχή αυτού του μοντέλου είναι ένα τριωνυμικό δέντρο, το οποίο μπορεί να θεωρείται ως μια φυσική μη πλήρης εκδοχή του διωνυμικού μοντέλου. Ο πρώτος στόχος είναι να βρεθεί το ελάχιστο κόστος του χαρτοφυλακίου που επιτυγχάνει την απόδοση του συνταξιοδοτικού πλάνου. Ο δεύτερος στόχος είναι να εξεταστούν τα κίνητρα του διαχειριστή του συνταξιοδοτικού ταμείου, ο οποίος παίρνει επιπλέον αποζημίωση σε περίπτωση πλεονάσματος (δηλαδή, όταν ο πλούτος στον τερματικό χρόνο είναι υψηλότερος από την υποσχεθείσα υποχρέωση). Το Κεφάλαιο με τίτλο: «Βελτιστοποίηση "Προς τα Πίσω" (Backward) και "Προς τα Εμπρός" (Forward) για τα Συνταξιοδοτικά Ταμεία», αναλύει δύο διαφορετικές προσεγγίσεις βελτιστοποίησης, την ευρέως χρησιμοποιούμενη "Backward Utility Optimization", όπου εστιάζουμε σε συγκεκριμένες περιπτώσεις σύμφωνα με τη μορφή του χαρτοφυλακίου και το «Forward Utility Optimization», ένα ζήτημα που ενώ έχει μελετηθεί από αρκετούς συγγραφείς, ένα μοντέλο που να είναι αφιερωμένο στα συνταξιοδοτικά ταμεία με συγκεκριμένα χαρακτηριστικά δεν έχει τεκμηριωθεί. Αρχικά μελετάμε την κλασική μέθοδο του Backward Utility Optimization για μεμονωμένα συνταξιοδοτικά μέλη και στη συνέχεια μελετάμε το Forward Utility Optimization με το οποίο εισάγουμε ένα εναλλακτικό μοντέλο για την επενδυτική πολιτική ενός συνταξιοδοτικού ταμείου που παράγει χρονικά συνεπής στρατηγικές χαρτοφυλακίου. Το Κεφάλαιο με τίτλο: «Forward Συναρτήσεις Χρησιμότητας για Συλλογικά Συνταξιοδοτικά Ταμεία», ασχολείται με τη διαδικασία εύρεσης της forward συνάρτησης χρησιμότητας για επενδυτικές στρατηγικές συλλογικών συνταξιοδοτικών ταμείων (τόσο για την DC όσο και για την DB). Οι κύριοι στόχοι είναι (i) να βρεθούν οι απαραίτητες προϋποθέσεις για τον χαρακτηρισμό της λύσης σε όρους τυχαίων μερικών διαφορικών εξισώσεων, (ii) να εξεταστεί εάν γνωστές ειδικές περιπτώσεις αρχικής χρησιμότητας (π.χ. εκθετική) μας επιτρέπει να λαμβάνουμε σαφείς εκφράσεις του βέλτιστου χαρτοφυλακίου.
Application of Entertainment Communications in the Russian Media Market: Problems and Prospects
Authors: Melnikova Irina , Ababkova M. , Volkova K.
Published: July 2024

This article analyses the problems and prospects of using entertainment communications in the Russian media market. The main prerequisites for the popularity and widespread use of entertainment technologies in the media sphere are considered. The purpose of this study was to determine the prospects for the use of entertainment communications in the Russian media market.

Methodology and Methods. Secondary data analysis and expert interview were chosen as the research methods.

As a result of the study, the risks and opportunities of entertainment communication application were identified; general and specific communication tasks were identified; priority areas of application of these technologies were substantiated. The article defines the role of entertainment technologies as a driver of development of the modern Russian media environment. The practical significance of the study. The factors influencing the effectiveness of these technologies in strategic communications and in the promotion of technically complex high-tech and innovative products are formulated. The use of the research results will ensure the validity of the choice of communication technologies, improve the quality of planning activities in the field of advertising and public relations.
The communicative transformation of the image of Russia in unfriendly media in the context of modern intercivilizational exacerbations
Authors: Chebykina Ekaterina
Published: July 2024

The article examines the transformation of the communicative image of Russia in the British media in the context of a special military operation in Ukraine. The scientific problem lies in the fact that in the conditions of the global information space, the communicative dialogue of states is carried out not only through factual information, but also through the prism of the linguistic features of a particular civilization, through which a negative image is built.

Based on a comprehensive linguistic analysis key trends and means of constructing a negative image of Russia have been identified.

The research methodology includes content analysis, which made it possible to determine the most frequent contexts of the use of the lexeme "Russia", and critical discourse analysis aimed at identifying the deep meanings and ideological attitudes behind specific language forms.

The results show that the lexical and semantic level is dominated by militaristic discourse At the level of rhetoric and stylistics, negatively colored metaphors play a key role. At the syntactic level, attention is drawn to the abundance of parallel constructions that escalate the series of negative characteristics of Russia.

It is concluded that the communicative image of Russia in the British media is undergoing a radical negative transformation.
Dietary supplements in the sport
Authors: Zdunek Roksana , Strus Karolina , Madera Magdalena , Mazur Sylwia , Marcinkowski Krzysztof , Dąbrowska Natalia , Nagórska Emilia , Kublińska Aleksandra
Published: July 2024

In recent years, the popularity of dietary supplements among athletes has surged, often aimed at enhancing sports performance and improving training outcomes. However, along with this popularity comes an increasing risk of using substances classified as doping in sports. This article examines the current state of knowledge regarding dietary supplements used by athletes, considering the potential risk of violating anti-doping regulations. The article discuss popular ingredients such creatine, beta-alanine, branched-chain amino acids and others.
Knee joint injuries in football players: types of injuries, etiology, diagnostics and prevention
Authors: Makuch Rafal , Kucharski Adam , Pilarski Konrad , Chrościcka Alicja , Gała Kamil , Czajka Andrzej , Lenard Paweł , Michalska Sara , Dewicka Martyna , Wawrzyniak Alicja Maria
Published: July 2024

Introduction
Football stands as the most widely embraced organized sport globally, boasting a staggering participation of over 200 million males and 21 million females officially registered under the auspices of the Fèdèration Internationale de Football Association (FIFA). Knee injuries are one of the most common health issues among soccer players at various levels of expertise. They arise from the intense nature of the game, which requires quick turns, running, jumping, kicking, and sudden changes in direction. These stresses can lead to strains and injuries in the structures of the knee joint, including ligaments, meniscus, tendons, and other soft tissues. This study gathers information about the most common types of knee injuries in soccer players, including situations in which these injuries occur, methods of diagnosis, treatment options, and strategies for injury prevention.
 Aim
The aim of this study is to gather and analyse the studies about knee injuries in soccer players at various levels of expertise.
Materials and Methods
Review and summary of research studies available in databases on Google Scholar and PubMed. Databases such as PubMed and Google Scholar were searched using the keywords: ‘soccer knee injuries’, ‘soccer injuries’, ‘ACL tear’, ‘MCL injury’, ‘meniscus injury’, ‘PCL and LCL tear’.
Summary
Soccer, as a high-contact sport, inherently carries a significant risk of various injuries, particularly to the knees. The prevalence of knee injuries, such as ACL, MCL, and meniscus tears, underscores the importance of effective prevention strategies. Proper warm-ups and specialized preventive exercises, such as those in the FIFA 11+ program, are crucial in reducing the incidence of these injuries. Injuries can severely impact a player's career, leading to long-term health consequences. Therefore, timely and accurate diagnosis, along with appropriate treatment, is essential for recovery and career longevity.
Look past the bleed! A case of non-traumatic thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm presenting as haemoptysis
Authors: Ansari Fawwad , Hamid Bilal , Mushtaq Fahad , Aftab Mubashira , Kiyani Zainab , Lloyd Benjamin , Gondal Muhammad Umer Riaz
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Aortic pseudoaneurysms are a type of contained rupture where most of the aortic wall is breached, leaving only a thin rim of the remaining wall or adventitia to hold the blood. This condition carries a high risk of rupture and potentially fatal complications. Typically, patients present with chest pain; haemoptysis can also occur, though rarely. Case description: A 64-year-old male who presented with two episodes of haemoptysis, with no history of cardiovascular surgery or trauma. A chest computerized tomography (CT) followed by an aortogram revealed a thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm and the patient underwent surgical aortic repair without any complications. This case underscores the rare presentation of thoracic aortic pseudoaneurysm. Discussion: Haemoptysis is a rare manifestation of thoracic aorta pseudoaneurysm and can be a warning sign of impending rupture. Haemoptysis may occur due to formation of aortopulmonary fistula or direct erosion of pseudoaneurysm into lung parenchyma. Conclusion: It is imperative for clinicians to recognise such manifestations early for prompt diagnosis and prevention of complications.
Challenges and acceptance of families caring for children with cerebral palsy: a scoping review
Authors: Andromeda Andromeda , Hartini Nurul , Suryanto Suryanto
Published: July 2024

This review aims to investigate the challenges and family acceptance of Asian and European families caring for children with cerebral palsy. Ten articles were found through searches of four databases. In both Asian and European contexts, the review reveals a variety of challenges faced by families (physical, psychological, social, emotional and financial). Family acceptance plays a substantial role in overcoming these challenges. In Asian contexts, cultural belief, stigma, prejudice and discrimination have a significant impact on family acceptance, whereas in European contexts, family acceptance is affected by children’s and families’ conditions, parents’ optimism, and their access to health and educational services.
Biofoul: Dirty Interfaces and the Politics of Technological Hygiene
Authors: Han Lisa Yin
Published: July 2024

Abstract: This article considers the history of technologies developed to address the problem of biofouling—the accumulation of aquatic organisms like barnacles, mussels, and seaweeds on human technologies and infrastructures. Extending the concept of biofoul beyond the confines of the marine industries and into media theory, I make the case that studies of oceanic histories, knowledges, and stories offer a unique vantage point from which to view technological history. While existing work in media and cultural studies has focused on the role of media technology as vectors for contamination, few have attended to the labor of technological hygiene at the media interface. To address this gap, I draw on elemental media theory and textual analysis to present a media history of the biofouled interface. Specifically, I put “antifouling” solutions for ship hulls, such as lead sheathing and copper paints, into conversation with underwater camera housings, screen protectors, and the artificial products that we use to keep our technologies free of mold, viruses, and other kinds of biological “foulness.” Analyzing the material history of antifouling solutions alongside cultural representations of “clammy matter,” I contend that struggles over biofouling have played both a material and discursive role in facilitating speed, mobility, and the global expansion of empire and capital from antiquity to modernity. As a media heuristic, biofoul ultimately directs us to consider the human and nonhuman coproduction of technological history, both above and below the waterline.
TAJ-Net: a two-stage clustered cell segmentation network with adaptive joint learning of spatial and spectral information
Authors: Zhang Qing , Zhou Xiaohui , Wu Chunyan , Gao Xiwen , Wang Yan , Li Qingli
Published: July 2024

Pulmonary adenocarcinoma is the primary cause of cancer-related death worldwide and pathological diagnosis is the “golden standard” based on the regional distribution of cells. Thus, regional cell segmentation is a key step while it is challenging due to the following reasons: 1) It is hard for pure semantic and instance segmentation methods to obtain a high-quality regional cell segmentation result; 2) Since the spatial appearances of pulmonary cells are very similar which even confuse pathologists, annotation errors are usually inevitable. Considering these challenges, we propose a two-stage 3D adaptive joint training framework (TAJ-Net) to segment-then-classify cells with extra spectral information as the supplementary information of spatial information. Firstly, we propose to leverage a few-shot method with limited data for cell mask acquisition to avoid the disturbance of cluttered backgrounds. Secondly, we introduce an adaptive joint training strategy to remove noisy samples through two 3D networks and one 1D network for cell type classification rather than segmentation. Subsequently, we propose a patch mapping method to map classification results to the original images to obtain regional segmentation results. In order to verify the effectiveness of TAJ-Net, we build two 3D hyperspectral datasets, i.e., pulmonary adenocarcinoma (3,660 images) and thyroid carcinoma (4623 images) with 40 bands. The first dataset will be released for further research. Experiments show that TAJ-Net achieves much better performance in clustered cell segmentation, and it can regionally segment different kinds of cells with high overlap and blurred edges, which is a difficult task for the state-of-the-art methods. Compared to 2D models, the hyperspectral image-based 3D model reports a significant improvement of up to 11.5% in terms of the Dice similarity coefficient in the pulmonary adenocarcinoma dataset.