bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Climate Change and Fear in a Fractional Prey-Predator Model with Crowley and Martin Functional Response
Authors: Assila Chaimaa , Benazza Hafida , Lemnouar Mohamed Reda
Published: March 2024

Global climate change is amplifying with each passing day, notably as rising temperatures increasingly influence ecological relationships. Therefore, a thorough understanding of the connection between temperature and predation is imperative to address the threat of extinction resulting from excessive temperature increases. In this paper, we introduce a fractional prey-predator model incorporating the Caputo fractional operator. Our model considers prey-predator interactions based on Crowley and Martin's functional response, taking into account the fear effect induced by predation. We analyze the non-negativity, existence, uniqueness, and boundedness of solutions within our model, considering both classical and Caputo derivative scenarios. Furthermore, we investigate the local stability of each equilibrium under both integer and fractional order conditions. In particular, we emphasize the global stability of the coexistence positive equilibrium point in both contexts. Our examination considers predation as a time-dependent function, with the temperature function reflecting climate change and elucidating how elevating temperatures contribute to predation. Through numerical simulations, we validate our theoretical findings, explore the impacts of fear on prey behavior and population dynamics, and illustrate how climate change, especially rising temperatures, intricately affects species relationships.
Mathematics Subject Classification: 26A33 , 34C60 , 34D20 , 92D25 , 37N25.
High Performance Helical Milling of Hardened Aisi D2 Cold Work Die Steel
Authors: Silva Tiago Junio , Martins Augusto Moura , Abrão Alexandre Mendes
Published: March 2024

This work investigates the feasibility of helical milling in producing high quality hoes in hardened AISI D2 cold work die steel (56 HRC). Considering the challenges faced by conventional hard drilling, helical milling emerges as an attractive alternative. The main goal is to investigate the influence of the cutting parameters on the quality of holes produced by helical milling using a ball nose cutter with indexable coated carbide inserts. A series of tests were conducted using the Taguchi methodology and analysis of variance. The following helical milling parameters were evaluated at two levels: cutting speed (vc), axial depth of cut (ap), feed per tooth (fz), tool eccentricity and (e) and cutting direction (up and down milling). The influence of these parameters on the components of helical milling force and hole quality (diameter deviation, circularity, cylindricity, and roughness) was assessed. Cutting power and the morphology of generated chips were also analyzed. The findings indicated that helical milling was capable of producing holes in hardened steel with tighter tolerances (ISO IT7) compared with drilling and roughness of the hole wall as low as Ra = 1.8 µm). Moreover, up milling promoted lower force components, especially in the axial direction. Regarding hole quality, up milling resulted in lower diameter deviation. The axial depth of cut was the most influential factor on surface roughness. The morphological analysis of chips indicated that chips with a lower serrated degree (GS) are associated with lower cutting power, while a higher serrated frequency (f) is related to better surface quality.
Probiotic Bactolac Provides Antidepressant Effect by Increasing BDNF level and Reducing NLRP3 and MC4R Expression Levels, Neuron Damage, Glial Activity and Depression-Like Behaviors in Rats
Authors: Işık Musab , Köse Fadime , Budak Özcan , Özbayer Cansu , Kaya Rumeysa Keleş , Aydın Sevda , Küçük Aleyna Ceren , Demirci Mehmet Arif , Doğanay Songül , Bağcı Cahit
Published: March 2024

Aim:Chronic stress plays an important role in the pathophysiology of depression. In this study, we aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of Bactolac (Lactobacillus plantarum NBIMCC 8767+Streptococcus thermophilus NBIMCC 8258) on chronic stress-induced depression in rats.
Methods:This study was performed in a total of 28 rats, in control (C), stress (S), Bactolac (B), Bactolac+stress (BS) groups (each n=7). Behavioral tests were performed to evaluate depressive behaviors (sucrose preference test, three-chamber sociability test, elevated plus maze test, forced swim test). 5-HT1A, DRD1, ADRA-2A, GABA-A α1, CNR1, NR3C2, NLRP3, MC4R expression levels in hippocampus tissue; NOD1 receptor expression levels in small intestine tissue were determined by RT-PCR method. BDNF levels in hippocampus tissue were determined by elisa kit. Histopathological examinations were performed in cortex and small intestine tissues.
Results:Bactolac treatment reduced depressive-like behaviors (p<0.05), NLRP3 and MC4R expression levels (p<0.05), neurodegeneration, and glial activity, increased BDNF levels. It had no effect on other parameters examined in stressed rats.
Conclusions:Chronic stress decreased the expression levels of 5-HT1A, DRD1, ADRA-2A, GABA-A α1, CNR1, NR3C2, NOD1 and BDNF level; increased the expression levels of NLRP3 and MC4R, caused neurodegeneration and glial activity, ultimately led to depressive effects. Bactolac was effective in reducing depressive effects and may be a natural treatment agent for depression.
Psychodynamic Insights into Treatment-Resistance: A Case Study Exploring Patient-Physician Dynamics and the Impact of Counter-Transference on Adherence to Evidence-Based Practices
Authors: Baur Alexander , Kryzanoski Leslie
Published: March 2024

Pharmacological resistance poses a significant challenge for individuals with severe recurrent mood or anxiety disorders in the evolving landscape of biological psychiatry. This case report explores the decision-making process physicians undergo when treating patients resistant to traditional therapies, particularly those with underlying personality disorders.
The patient in focus underwent extensive treatment with antidepressants, antipsychotics, mood stabilizers, anxiolytics, and hypnotics. This journey sheds light on the multifaceted nature of treatment resistance, emphasizing the active role of patients in influencing and occasionally sabotaging their treatment.
The report highlights the delicate balance between minor medication adjustments and a departure from established clinical practices. The pivotal role of the patient-physician relationship is emphasized, with a specific focus on identifying and addressing the patient's past feelings of anger towards physicians as a contributing factor.
Failure to recognize this dynamic can result in physician frustration and a sense of helplessness. The exploration also stresses the importance of understanding physician emotions in managing medications for challenging patients.
By uncovering the underlying causes of treatment resistance in this case, the physician's confidence improved, enabling a more beneficial course for the patient. However, a lack of continuity and a weak therapeutic relationship led to treatment failure in this instance.
In conclusion, this case underscores the critical importance of identifying factors contributing to treatment resistance to disrupt the cyclical pattern of medication changes. Both patient and physician emotions significantly influence deviations from clinical practice. The narrative emphasizes the value of psychodynamic understanding in addressing these challenges, facilitating a more comprehensive and effective approach to patient care.
Enhanced and multi-purpose analysis of aeromagnetic anomalies by combining topographic data
Authors: Park Sohyeon , Oh Seokhoon
Published: March 2024

Tie-lines are used in aeromagnetic surveys to detect measurement errors and compensate for insufficient measurement data in the north-south direction. However, increasing the number of tie-lines to improve the accuracy of interpretation can be very challenging. The aim of this study was to overcome this issue by combining aeromagnetic and related multi-parametric data. Therefore, we generated an aeromagnetic map using simple kriging with local varying means (SK-lvm) based on topographic data correlated with the distribution patterns of the aeromagnetic data. The generated aeromagnetic map achieved reduced uncertainties and increased resolution compared with the conventional aeromagnetic map as a result of the interpolation of the magnetic data, which leveraged the dense distribution of the topographic data points and enabled a clearer analysis of geological structures. Generally, topographic and aeromagnetic data were positively correlated with deviating patterns displayed in some regions; however, all the regions shown were classified into Types 1–4 based on the correlation regression equation. Types 1 and 4 showed positive correlations, while Types 2 and 3 exhibited negative correlations with the following characteristics: Type 2 regions are characterized by high altitude and low magnetic anomalies, while Type 3 regions are characterized by low altitude and high magnetic anomalies. The analysis revealed that Type 2 regions are distributed around high-altitude mountainous areas covered with igneous and sedimentary rocks with low magnetic anomalies, whereas Type 3 regions abound with igneous rocks with high magnetic anomalies and mining sites in low-altitude alluvium or coastal areas. Thus, the proposed aeromagnetic map improved resolution and enhanced the reliability of the interpretation (compared with those of a conventional aeromagnetic map) by combining topographic datasets using SK-lvm to process and interpret the comprehensive aeromagnetic survey data. Moreover, the correlation analysis results for the two datasets are expected to serve as useful reference data for determining the characteristic type of rocks distributed in the study area.
Factors influencing pulmonary hemorrhage in very low-and extremely low-birth-weight infants: a meta-analysis
Authors: Shi Qin-Chuan , Tao Fu-Ying , Li Jing-Yang , Tian Ying-Ying , Liu Bei-Bei , Wang Qian-Qian
Published: March 2024

Background
Pulmonary hemorrhage is a common complication in preterm infants, especially in very low-and extremely low-birth-weight infants, and has high morbidity and mortality rates. Although some studies have analyzed the epidemiological incidence of pulmonary hemorrhage and related factors, there are discrepancies between the results of these studies due to differences in study populations and study designs. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis of the factors affecting pulmonary hemorrhage to provide a reference for early clinical recognition and prevention of pulmonary hemorrhage.
Methods
Systematic searches of the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and other databases were performed to extract the results of logistic regression analyses of case-control or cohort studies related to the factors affecting pulmonary hemorrhage in very-low and extremely-low-birth-weight infants. The data were analyzed using RevMan 5.3 software.
Results
A total of 13 studies were included and 11 influencing factors were screened through quantitative integration. All factors were statistically significant except for hypothermia: birth weight (OR=0.75, 95% CI 0.59-0.97, P=0.03, I2=95%), coagulation disorders (OR=4, 95% CI 1.79-8.93, P<0.01, I2=66%), patent ductus arteriosus (OR=3.52, 95% CI 1.71-7.27, P<0.01, I2=80%), mechanical ventilation (OR=2.94, 95% CI 1.94-4.45, P<0.01, I2=0%), aneaemia (OR=5.15, 95% CI 2.92-9.07, P<0.01, I2=43%), 5-min Apgar score (OR=1.6, 95% CI 1.21-2.11, P<0.01, I2=46%), early-onset sepsis (OR=2.71, 95% CI 1.62-4.53, P<0.01, I2=0%), antenatal steroids (OR=0.39, 95% CI 0.21-0.73, P<0.01, I2=25%), preterm birth (OR=1.99, 95% CI 1.34-2.97, P<0.01, I2=47%), and blood product transfusion (OR=6.16, 95% CI 2.15-17.69, P<0.01, I2=0%).
Conclusion
This study revealed the factors affecting pulmonary hemorrhage in very-low and extremely-low-birth-weight infants, and the results of the meta-analysis will be supplemented by a standardized cohort study based on this study.
Trial registration
PROSPERO (CRD42023465025)
A Cross-Fluid Heat Transfer Analysis Using Neural Networks Over Porous Rotating Disk.
Authors: Ullah Fahim , Ashraf Muhammad Bilal , Ro Jong-Suk
Published: March 2024

The primary focus of this study is on the heat and mass transfer properties of incompressible cross-fluid flow across a porous rotating disk. The research involves the use of sophisticated mathematical methods, such as similarity transformations and an ANN algorithm (backpropagation Levenberg-Marquardt Scheme), to convert governing partial differential equations into thoroughly non-linear ordinary differential equations. The Nusselt number, the Sherwood number, and the skin friction coefficient are all mathematically calculated for quantitative study. The findings are ensured to be reliable and consistent since the BVP4C method is used for numerical validation. The research is centered on the fluid mechanics and transport phenomena of this intricate system.
SYMPATHIQUE: Image-based tracking of Symptoms and monitoring of Pathogenesis to decompose Quantitative disease resistance in the field
Authors: Anderegg Jonas , Zenkl Radek , Kirchgessner Norbert , Hund Andreas , Walter Achim , McDonald Bruce A.
Published: March 2024

Background. Quantitative disease resistance (QR) is a complex, dynamic trait that is most reliably quantified in field-grown crops. Traditional disease assessments offer limited potential to disentangle the contributions of different components to overall QR at critical crop developmental stages. Yet, a better functional understanding of QR could greatly support a more targeted, knowledge-based selection for QR and improve predictions of seasonal epidemics. Image-based approaches together with advanced image processing methodologies recently emerged as valuable tools to standardize relevant disease assessments, increase measurement throughput, and describe diseases along multiple dimensions.
Results. We present a simple, affordable, and easy-to-operate imaging set-up and imaging procedure for in-field acquisition of wheat leaf image sequences. The development of Septoria tritici blotch and leaf rusts was monitored over time via robust methods for symptom detection and segmentation, image registration, symptom tracking, and leaf- and symptom characterization. The average accuracy of the co-registration of images in a time series was approximately 5 pixels (~ 0.15 mm). Leaf-level symptom counts as well as individual symptom property measurements revealed stable patterns over time that were generally in excellent agreement with visual impressions. This provided strong evidence for the robustness of the methodology to variability typically inherent in field data. Contrasting patterns in lesion numbers and lesion expansion dynamics were observed across wheat genotypes. The number of separate infection events and average lesion size contributed to different degrees to overall disease intensity, possibly indicating distinct and complementary mechanisms of QR.
Conclusions. The proposed methodology enables rapid, non-destructive, and reproducible measurement of several key epidemiological parameters under natural field conditions. Such data can support decomposition and functional understanding of QR as well as the parameterization, fine-tuning, and validation of epidemiological models. Details of pathogenesis can translate into specific symptom phenotypes resolvable using time series of high-resolution RGB images, which may improve biological understanding of plant-pathogen interactions as well as interactions in disease complexes.
Characterization of Pre- and Post-treatment Soluble Immune Mediators and the Tumor Microenvironment in NSCLC Patients Receiving PD-1/L1 Inhibitor Monotherapy
Authors: Murata Daiki , Azuma Koichi , Murotani Kenta , Kawahara Akihiko , Nishii Yuuya , Tokito Takaaki , Sasada Tetsuro , Hoshino Tomoaki
Published: March 2024

Background
Despite the favorable therapeutic efficacy observed with ICI monotherapy, the majority of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients do not respond. Therefore, identifying patients who could optimally benefit from ICI treatment remains a challenge.
Methods
Among 183 patients with advanced or recurrent NSCLC who received ICI monotherapy, we analyzed 110 patients whose pre- and post-treatment plasma samples were available. Seventy-three soluble immune mediators were measured at ICI initiation and 6 weeks later. To identify useful biomarkers, we analyzed the association of pre-treatment levels and post-treatment changes of soluble immune mediators with survival of patients. The associations of pre-treatment or on-treatment biomarkers with irAE development, PD-L1 expression, CD8 + TIL density, and neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) were also analyzed.
Results
Pre-treatment biomarkers included 6 immune mediators (CCL13, CCL19, CCL21, CXCL5, CXCL10 and TNFSF13B) whereas on-treatment biomarkers included 8 immune mediators (CCL7, CCL19, CCL23, CCL25, IL-10, IL-32, IL-34 and TNFSF12). IrAE development was associated with post-treatment change in CCL23. PD-L1 expression was associated with the pre-treatment levels of TNFSF13B and the post-treatment change in CCL25. CD8 + TIL density was associated with the pre-treatment CXCL10 level, whereas NLR was correlated with pre-treatment levels of CCL13 and CCL17.
Conclusion
We identified several possible pre-treatment and on-treatment biomarkers in patients with NSCLC who received ICI monotherapy. Some of these biomarkers were associated with other possible predictors, including irAE development, PD-L1 expression, CD8 + TIL density and NLR. Further large-scale studies are needed to establish biomarkers for patients with NSCLC who received ICI monotherapy.
Noninvasive ventilation on reintubation in patients with obesity and hypoxemic respiratory failure following abdominal surgery A post-hoc analysis of a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: JABER Samir , Pensier Joris , Futier Emmanuel , Paugam-Burtz Catherine , Seguin Philippe , Ferrandiere Martine , Lasocki Sigismond , Pottecher Julien , Abback Paër-Sélim , Riu Beatrice , Belafia Fouad , Constantin Jean-Michel , Verzilli Daniel , Chanques Gérald , De Jong Audrey , Molinari Nicolas
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Although noninvasive ventilation (NIV) may reduce reintubation in patients with acute hypoxemic respiratory failure following abdominal surgery, this strategy has not been specifically assessed in patients with obesity.
Methods
We conducted a post-hoc analysis of a multicenter randomized controlled trial comparing NIV delivered via facial mask (inspiratory pressure support level, 5-15cmH2O; positive end-expiratory pressure, 5-10cmH2O; fraction of inspired oxygen titrated to Spo2 ≥ 94%) to standard oxygen-therapy (up to 15 L/min to SpO2 ≥ 94%) among patients with obesity and acute hypoxemic respiratory failure within seven days after abdominal surgery. The primary outcome was reintubation within seven days. Secondary outcomes were invasive ventilation–free days at day 30, Intensive Care Unit (ICU)-acquired pneumonia and 30-day survival.
Results
Among 293 patients with hypoxemic respiratory failure following abdominal surgery, 76 (26%) patients had obesity and were included in the intention-to-treat analysis. Reintubation rate was significantly lower with NIV (13/42, 31%) than with standard oxygen-therapy (19/34, 56%) within seven days (absolute difference: -25%, 95%Confidence Interval(CI) -49% to -1%, p = 0.03). NIV was associated with significantly more invasive ventilation–free days compared with standard oxygen-therapy (27.1 ± 8.6 vs 22.7 ± 11.1 days; p = 0.02), while fewer patients developed ICU-acquired pneumonia (1/42, 2% vs 6/34, 18%; absolute difference, − 16%; 95%CI, − 31% to − 1%; p = 0.04). The 30-day survival was 98% in the NIV group (41/42) versus 85% in the standard oxygen-therapy (absolute difference, 13%; 95%CI, − 3–28%; p = 0.08).
Conclusions
Among patients with obesity and hypoxemic respiratory failure following abdominal surgery, use of NIV compared with standard oxygen-therapy reduced the risk of reintubation within seven days.
Trial Registration
clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01971892
Inclusive health for people with disabilities in Chile: a national health system assessment
Authors: Gatta Danae Rodríguez , Tapia Constanza Piriz , Schmidt Elvira Tagle , Benavides Jimena Luna , Jara Daniel Vivar , Celis Rodrigo Moreno , Carrizo Gonzalo Tobar , Cáceres Judit Vilaró , Heydt Phyllis , Banks Lena Morgon , Kupper Hannah
Published: March 2024

Background: Globally, one in six people have disabilities. They often experience health inequities and many of them arise from system-level failures. This study aimed to assess the inclusion of people with disabilities in the health system of Chile and define recommendations for improvement based on the evidence. Methods: A health system assessment was conducted between June and November 2023 following the Missing Billion Disability-Inclusive Health Systems Framework and System Level Assessment Toolkit. The assessment was led by the Ministry of Health and conducted by a task team, including organizations of people with disabilities. Mixed methods were used to collect data on nine system-level and service delivery components for a set of 33 indicators, including through a health policy review, systematic review, key informant interviews and a scoping review. Scores were assigned to indicators, components, and the overall health system. With this assessment, key recommendations were developed and agreed upon based on a prioritization analysis of impact and feasibility during workshops. Results: The Chilean health system was assessed to have a low progress towards disability-inclusive health. Among system-level components, intermediate progress has been made in governance, health financing, and data and evidence. However, progress in leadership on disability seems low. Among service delivery components, the accessibility of health facilities and rehabilitation and assistive technology showed the best results. However, there were notable gaps in the autonomy and awareness and ability to afford care by people with disabilities, and the capacity of human resources to support this group. The task team defined priority actions in governance, leadership, and human resources. Conclusions: Short-term actions for the country should involve foundational governance on inclusive health, strengthened leadership of people with disabilities, and mandatory training of healthcare workers to improve healthcare access among this population. Future reassessments should be conducted to monitor and evaluate progress on effective healthcare coverage and health status among people with disabilities.
The C-terminal region of the Plasmodium berghei gamete surface 184-kDa protein Pb184 contributes to fertilization and male gamete binding to the residual body
Authors: Nakayama Kazuhiko , Haraguchi Asako , Hakozaki Jun , Nakamura Sakure , Kusakisako Kodai , Ikadai Hiromi
Published: March 2024

Background
Malaria is a global health concern, caused by parasites of the Plasmodium genus, which undergo gametogenesis in the midgut of mosquitoes after ingestion of an infected blood meal. The resulting male and female gametes fuse to form a zygote, which differentiates into a motile ookinete. After traversing the midgut epithelium, the ookinete differentiates into an oocyst on the epithelial basal side.
Methods
We investigated membrane proteins with increased gene expression levels from gametes to oocysts in P. berghei, utilizing the PlasmoDB. As a result, 184 kDa membrane protein, Pb184 was selected. After confirming the expression of Pb184 through immunofluorescence staining, we examined whether Pb184 is involved in the fertilization using antibodies targeting the C-terminal region of Pb184 and biotin-labeled C-terminal region peptides of Pb184.
Results
We found that Pb184 is expressed on the surface of male and female gamete, respectively. The antibody inhibited zygote and ookinete formation in vitro. When mosquitoes fed on parasite-infected blood containing the antibody, oocyst formation decreased on the second day after feeding. Synthesized a biotin-labeled peptides matching the C-terminal region of Pb184 bound to the female gamete and the residual body of male gametes, and inhibiting differentiation into ookinetes in the in vitro culture system.
Conclusions
These finding may be useful for the further studying in the fertilization mechanism of Plasmodium protozoa. In addition, there is a potential for their application as future tools to prevent malaria transmission.
Approach to Social Media Cyberbullying and Harassment Detection Using Advanced Machine Learning
Authors: Islam Md. Saiful , Orno Arafatun Noor , Arifuzzaman Mohammad
Published: March 2024

The use of information and communication technologies to engage in bullying behavior is known as cyberbullying. Today's society is facing a major and growing challenge of cyberbullying as a result of the misuse and inappropriate usage of social media. A few significant researches have been done in Artificial Intelligence (AI) inspired cyber bulling detection domain because of not having related dataset. This paper focuses on AI based cyber bullying detection in the context of social networking sites of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube English language. This paper has two major contributions. Firstly, we developed a dataset that involves collecting unique comments, evaluating them with psychological references, and categorizing them using Word Embedding for streamlined classification. Secondly, we offer a novel, machine learning-based solution to efficient cyberbullying detection systems which leverage the concept of advanced natural language processing techniques, including text preprocessing, feature extraction, and sentiment analysis, are employed to capture the intricate nuances of online interactions. Additionally, computer vision enhances detection beyond textual content. The methodology integrates various machine learning models, such as Logistic Regression, Decision Tree Classifier, Random Forest Classifier, Multinomial NB, KNeighbors Classifier, SVM, SGD Classifier, and Support Vector Machines. Experimental results, including Bidirectional LSTMs, showcase high accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score metrics, demonstrating robust performance in handling diverse forms of cyberbullying and harassment. The paper concludes with insights into ethical considerations and future directions, highlighting the support vector machine (SVM) as the most effective algorithm with a 90.06% accuracy rate. Recommending SVM for social media platforms, the research contributes to enhancing online safety, guiding proactive measures against cyberbullying, and fostering a safer, more inclusive digital environment.
Comparison of LSTM, Auto-LSTM, and MetroMan on SWOT-like Data
Authors: Roche Steven , Sun Yixuan
Published: March 2024

Estimating discharge levels in rivers is important for flood prediction and water management. Many papers have developed and evaluated hydrological and machine learning techniques on these problems, but there lacks a large-scale comparison between methods. In addition, many papers using satellite data for predictions have been published in an effort to complement in-situ gauge data or make predictions in catchments that lack direct measurements. In this study, we evaluate the LSTM, Auto-LSTM, and Metropolis-Manning (MetroMan) algorithms on 31 test cases that use SWOT-like data. Using normalized root mean squared error and the Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency evaluation metrics, we show that the LSTM architecture tends to outperform the MetroMan hydrological algorithm when given a long observation period. Also, we investigate how applying an autoencoder may affect the predictive power of the LSTM approach. The study gives insight into how long of an observation period is required to train an effective LSTM model for this problem.
Impact of TNFR1 pro-inflammatory receptor ablation in amelogenesis and dental enamel biomineralization in mice
Authors: Gonçalves Juliana de Lima , Almeida-Júnior Luciano Aparecido , Arnez Maya Fernanda Manfrin , de Queiroz Alexandra Mussolino , de Carvalho Fabrício Kitazono , Paula-Silva Francisco Wanderley Garcia
Published: March 2024

Immune response has been speculated as a player in dental enamel defects. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ablation of the TNFR1 gene, which encodes the receptor-1 of the pleiotropic protein tumor necrosis factor-α, in amelogenesis and enamel biomineralization. Six male knockout mice for the TNFR1 receptor and six wild-type C57BL/6 mice were used for the study. The lower incisors were used for visual photographic analysis, computerized microtomography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), surface microhardness evaluation and mineral component analysis by energy dispersive X-ray. The presence and synthesis of MMP-20, Runx2, COX-2 and ameloblastin were investigated using immunohistochemistry and in situ zymography. Data was analyzed using Student t test. No visual changes were found in the incisors and there was no difference in mineral density between the groups. Nonetheless, SEM showed a difference in the conformation of the enamel prisms of incisors extracted from TNFR1-/- animals, as well as a lower Ca content and enamel surface microhardness. Regarding the signaling and molecules involved in amelogenesis, there was a higher expression of MMP-20, COX-2, Runx2, and ameloblastin in TNFR1-/- animals. The absence of the TNFR1 receptor has an impact on signaling for the formation of tooth enamel, resulting in lower surface hardness and lower calcium composition.
Versatile natural molluscicides against the snail Biomphalaria glabrata Say, 1818 (Pulmonata: Planorbidae), the principal vector of Schistosoma mansoni on the American continent
Authors: Hartmann Deborah Bortolucci , Marim Renan Alberto , Zardeto Giuliana , Silva Isabela de Azevedo , Jacomassi Ezilda , Gazim Zilda Cristiani , Junior Antonio Laverde
Published: March 2024

Schistosomiasis is a millennial disease that affects approximately 235 million people. Considering that most of the population affected by schistosomiasis faces different conditions of poverty, finding compounds from plants that can help control or eradicate this disease would be worthwhile especially if the plants are readily available for those who need to use them the most. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of fresh latex from fourteen locally cultivated Euphorbiaceae species on the freshwater snail Biomphalaria glabrata Say, 1818 (Gastropoda: Planorbidae), the principal vector of the Schistosoma mansoni trematode on the American continent. Adult B. glabrata snails were exposed to various concentrations of fresh latex from Euphorbiaceae species for 24 and 48 hours. Mortality data were analyzed using the probit method. To evaluate the latex ecotoxicity of the promising species against other aquatic organisms, lethality tests were performed on Poecilia reticulata Peter, 1859 (Cyprinodontiformes: Poeciliidae) fish and Artemia salina Leach (Anostraca: Artemiidae) nauplii. Three species presented significant molluscicide activity: Euphorbia milii var. breonii (LC50 = 0.9 µg/mL), E. milii var. milii (LC50 = 1.1 µg/mL) and E. umbellata (LC50 = 9.1 µg/mL). Only E. milii (var. breonii and var. milii) was not lethal to the evaluated fish (LC50 of 9.9 µg/mL) and A. salina (LC50 > 100.0 µg/mL). These results qualify both the E. milii variety of fresh latices as versatile (active at low concentrations, biodegradable, inexpensive, and obtained from renewable resources) and alternative molluscicidal agents against B. glabrata snails.
Tendencies and prerequisites of higher education image formation of institutions in the modern market environment
Authors: Solodovnikov Serhii
Published: March 2024

Analysis of the current situation. Higher education institutions in Ukraine are in a competitive environment, and in a constant struggle for the best students, researchers, grants, and other budgetary and extra-budgetary funding. After all, funding for higher education in Ukraine is much lower than in European countries. Currently, due to the war in the country, many Ukrainians have gained access to education in the European Union, so more and more HEIs are developing a scientific component as an alternative source of replacing the loss of applicants, including foreign ones, who were lost due to the war in the country. This approach of science to educational institutions is in line with the 4th UN Sustainable Development Goal, namely subparagraph 4.4 - to improve the quality of higher education and ensure its close connection with science, and to promote the formation of cities of education and science in the country. However, these processes necessitate competition that is limited by financial resources. In recent years, Ukrainian educational institutions have been working more and more actively to enter national and global rankings of higher education institutions, trying to improve their positions in the rankings and formulate an opinion about their success among applicants, partners, entrepreneurs, local authorities, etc. Stakeholder engagement and maintaining the quality of education and research are key to ensuring compliance with labor market needs and attracting investment. The reorientation towards a socially responsible university reflects global trends and contributes to the formation of a positive image among the main stakeholders of the HEI. Adapting to these trends allows HEIs to successfully position themselves in the market, attracting students, teachers, and investors. The war in Ukraine restricts the full development and formation of a positive image of higher education institutions and leads to an outflow of intellectual capital from the country. The results of the study show that in terms of the "Brain Drain" indicator, Ukraine ranks among the worst in the world with an index of 8.9 out of 10, with only Samoa and Jamaica being worse off. The dynamics of entering the world rankings of universities, the number of students graduating by year, both domestic and foreign, are studied. The necessity of creating and promoting a positive image of higher education institutions in the modern competitive market environment, the need to position universities in the international globalized environment is substantiated.
Continuous improvement of the assembly process of an automotive part applying lean manufacturing tools
Authors: Montesinos González Salvador , Moreno Rios Jannet
Published: March 2024

The object of research: The analysis of the entire assembly process of any automotive part is of utmost importance, given that optimizing any indicator such as time, cost, labor, materials, among others, will allow increasing the productivity and efficiency of the companies.
Investigated problem: analyze how to reduce cycle time in the assembly process of an automotive part that is sold to Ford, this with the purpose of reducing costs and delivery times by making use of industrial engineering tools, specifically techniques related to lean manufacturing.
The main scientific results: the assembly process of the upper B Post of the F-CX727 platform was optimized, through continuous improvement tools, improving indicators such as the reduction of cycle time and the cost of the product sold to the customer.
The scope of practical application of the research results: auto parts companies specialized in the manufacturing of products for the automotive industry require the application of continuous improvement tools necessary to balance assembly lines and make incremental improvements in an organization.
Innovative technological product: The use of soft techniques and methodologies allows a company to be flexible in its assembly system, this allows it to generate value in its processes as well as the control and reduction of key efficiency indicators.
Scope of the innovative technological product: the scope of the research work is basically to present the development of continuous improvement techniques for an assembly product made in an auto parts industry in Mexico with the purpose of optimizing the process.
Development of a knowledge test about scientists for secondary school students
Authors: YILDIRIM Pelin , KEÇECİ Gonca , KIRBAĞ ZENGİN Fikriye
Published: March 2024

This study aims to develop a knowledge test to assess secondary school students' awareness of scientists. After determining the topics that the questions in the test would measure, 50 multiple-choice questions were prepared and presented to six experts in the field. Following the experts' feedback, the number of questions in the test was reduced to 44 due to issues related to question clarity, alignment with the curriculum, and cognitive appropriateness. The 44-question test underwent item analysis. The prepared test was subjected to a preliminary pilot application with 222 secondary school students. As a result of the preliminary pilot application, two questions with discrimination indices of 0.19 or lower were removed, and the final version of the test was arranged to consist of 42 questions for the pilot application. The pilot application was conducted with 211 secondary school students. In this application, secondary school students were administered the Knowledge Test of Scientists consisting of 42 questions, and item analysis was performed again. Two questions with discrimination indices of 0.19 or lower were removed from the pilot application. As a result of the pilot application, the Knowledge Test of Scientists had a KR-20 reliability coefficient of 0.94, and the Spearman Brown two-half test correlation coefficient was calculated as 0.92. The final version of the scale was arranged to consist of 40 items. These results demonstrate that the test is highly reliable, meaning that the test results accurately reflect the measured attribute and are replicable.
Examining the validity and reliability of the academic entitlement scale in Turkish culture
Authors: KANTAR Adem , ASLAN CEVHEROĞLU Büşra , BAKIR Aysegul , AKDUR ÇİÇEK Serel
Published: March 2024

This study aims to adapt the Academic Entitlement Scale to Turkish culture and examine the scale's measurement invariance according to gender. The study was conducted with 372 university students aged 18 and 54 (I = 20.90). The study used the Academic Entitlement Scale, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, Narcissistic Personality Inventory, and Locus of Control Scale as data collection tools. Confirmatory factor analysis was performed to identify the construct validity of the scale. The measurement invariance of the scale according to gender was examined using multi-group confirmatory factor analysis. Correlations between research variables were analyzed with the Pearson Correlation Test. Cronbach's Alpha was performed to measure the internal consistency reliability of the study. As a result of the analyses, it was determined that academic entitlement was positively correlated with self-esteem and external locus of control. In addition, it was revealed that the externalized responsibility sub-dimension was positively correlated to narcissism. The research findings indicate that the scale is a valid and reliable measurement tool within Turkish culture.
EFT matching from analyticity and unitarity
Authors: De Angelis Stefano , Durieux Gauthier
Published: March 2024

We present a new on-shell method for the matching of ultraviolet models featuring massive states onto their massless effective field theory. We employ a dispersion relation in the space of complex momentum dilations to capture, in a single variable, the relevant analytic structure of scattering amplitudes at any multiplicity. Multivariate complex analysis and crossing considerations are therefore avoided. Remarkably, no knowledge about the infrared effective field theory is required in dimensional regularisation. All matching information is extracted from the residues and iscontinuities of the ultraviolet scattering amplitudes, which unitarity expresses in terms of lower-point and lower-loop results, respectively. This decomposition into simpler building blocks could deliver new insight in the structure of the effective field theories obtained from classes of ultraviolet scenarios and facilitate computations at higher loop orders.
Measurement induced transitions in non-Markovian free fermion ladders
Authors: Tsitsishvili Mikheil , Poletti Dario , Dalmonte Marcello , Chiriacò Giuliano
Published: March 2024

Recently there has been an intense effort to understand measurement induced transitions, but we still lack a good understanding of non-Markovian effects on these phenomena. To that end, we consider two coupled chains of free fermions, one acting as the system of interest, and one as a bath. The bath chain is subject to Markovian measurements, resulting in an effective non-Markovian dissipative dynamics acting on the system chain which is still amenable to numerical studies in terms of quantum trajectories. Within this setting, we study the entanglement within the system chain, and use it to characterize the phase diagram depending on the ladder hopping parameters and on the measurement probability. For the case of pure state evolution, the system is in an area law phase when the internal hopping of the bath chain is small, while a non-area law phase appears when the dynamics of the bath is fast. The non-area law exhibits a logarithmic scaling of the entropy compatible with a conformal phase, but also displays linear corrections for the finite system sizes we can study. For the case of mixed state evolution, we instead observe regions with both area, and non-area scaling of the entanglement negativity. We quantify the non-Markovianity of the system chain dynamics and find that for the regimes of parameters we study, a stronger non-Markovianity is associated to a larger entanglement within the system.
Urban wastewater management in Nepal: generation, treatment, engineering and policy perspectives
Authors: Karki Bhesh Kumar , Baniya Sachita , Kharel Hari Lal , Angove Michael J. , Paudel Shukra Raj
Published: March 2024

Rapid urbanization has caused a worldwide increase in the discharge of wastewater effluent. Although Nepal has a noteworthy history of wastewater management, progress in this field has been hindered by persistent issues. These problems encompass insufficient sewer coverage, deficient treatment and sludge disposal facilities, inadequate treatment infrastructure, lack of coherent institutional frameworks, and a lack of comprehensive planning. This review provides a glimpse into Nepal's current urban wastewater landscape while also offering a concise historical overview of its wastewater management trends. The study gathered data, information from government organizations, as well as related research, review articles, and reports from 1999 to 2023. Our findings reveal that more than 85% of urban households in Nepal rely on onsite sanitation, with limited access to septage treatment facilities. The ratio of wastewater treatment to generation is disconcertingly low, further emphasized by the concentration of centralized treatment plants in the capital city. This low ratio underscores the inadequacy of the existing wastewater system and the novice approaches of the government, which contribute to the poor sewerage facilities in Nepal. This study unequivocally highlights the imperative need for functional and institutional hierarchy emphasizing local communities, substantial changes in resource allocation, governance practices, and technical infrastructure.
The impact of recycling polyaluminium chloride and anionic polyacrylamide water treatment residuals on heavy metal adsorption in soils: implications for stormwater bioretention systems
Authors: Chen Jing , Duan Runbin , Zhu Bingzi , Sun Yao , Gao Jiangqi
Published: March 2024

Despite the high adsorption capacity of polyaluminum chloride and anionic polyacrylamide water treatment residuals (PAC-APAM WTRs) for Pb2+, Cd2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+, their influence on the adsorption behavior of heavy metals in traditional bioretention soil media remains unclear. This study investigated the impact of PAC-APAM WTRs at a 20% weight ratio on the adsorption removal of Pb2+, Cd2+, Cu2+, and Zn2+ in three types of soils. The results demonstrated improved heavy metal adsorption in the presence of PAC-APAM WTRs, with enhanced removal observed at higher pH levels and temperatures. The addition of PAC-APAM WTRs augmented the maximum adsorption capacity for Pb2+ (from 0.98 to 3.98%), Cd2+ (from 0.52 to 10.99%), Cu2+ (from 3.69 to 36.79%), and Zn2+ (from 2.63 to 13.46%). The Langmuir model better described the data in soils with and without PAC-APAM WTRs. The pseudo-second-order model more accurately described the adsorption process, revealing an irreversible chemical process, although qe demonstrated improvement with the addition of PAC-APAM WTRs. This study affirms the potential of PAC-APAM WTRs as an amendment for mitigating heavy metal pollution in stormwater bioretention systems. Further exploration of the engineering application of PAC-APAM WTRs, particularly in field conditions for the removal of dissolved heavy metals, is recommended.
HEART RATE VARIABILITY AS A MARKER OF REGULATORY MECHANISMS OF CARDIOVASCULAR HOMEOSTASIS IN SPACE FLIGHT
Authors:   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Rusanov V.B. , Yakhya Yu.D. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Orlov O.I. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow
Published: March 2024

The article discusses the concepts of the work of regulatory mechanisms of cardiovascular homeostasis in space flight (SF) and heart rate variability (HRV) as a biomarker of homeostatic processes in the human body. HRV, which is fluctuations in time intervals between heartbeats, is caused by dynamic nonlinear processes of the autonomic nervous system (ANS), neurohumoral and metabolic regulatory circuits. Thus, HRV can quickly respond to changes in the body’s blood supply needs, being a qualitative indicator of the level of its adaptation to various environmental conditions. HRV is connected not only with the ANS, but also with brain structures, including the prefrontal cortex. This connection makes HRV even more significant as a complex biomarker, reflecting not only cardiac function, but also flexible adaptive regulation in the SF, allowing one to assess both the state of the circulatory system and the general functional state of the body.
COMPARISON OF EEG CHANGES AT REST DURING 21-DAY DRY IMMERSION AND 21-DAY HEAD-DOWN BED REST
Authors:   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Ukraintseva Yu.V. , Zhurina Yu.D. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Lazarev I.E. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, Tomilovskaya E.S. ,   Institute of Biomedical Problems of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow
Published: March 2024

Changes in EEG were investigated in two ground-based hypogravity simulation experiments: 21-d dry immersion (DI) and 21-d bed rest (BR). Ten volunteersparticipated in DI, and 6 volunteers in BD. EEG was recorded before and on days 5 and 17 of DI and BR. EEG spectral power was analyzed using the fast Fourier transform. EEG spectral power during DI and BD were compared. Our results showed that some EEG changesduring DI and BD were similar. In both simulations, a decrease in theta1 and beta (beta1 in DI and beta2 in BR) spectral power was detected on the 5th day of exposure. However, in DI, the decrease in slow rhythms was more evident than in BR. Not only did theta1 decline, but the power in theta2, delta1, and delta2 bands also decreased. The differences between the two experiments were also seen on the 17th day of exposure. The theta and beta power increased on the 17th day of BR, reaching the baseline level, whereas, on the 17th day of DI, the spectral power of slow rhythms remained reduced.