bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
3D radiotherapy in the parotid gland and its dosimetric relationship with salivary flow and quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer
Authors: Aguiar Ana Waleska Pessôa Barros de , Lins Luiz André Nadler , Fonte Ana Luíza Fassizoli da , Albuquerque Raylane Farias de , Leão Jair Carneiro , Silva Igor Henrique Morais
Published: January 2024

Aim: Hyposalivation and dry mouth affect the quality of life in patients with Head and Neck Cancer, who did the treatment with radiotherapy. Thus this study has the objective to evaluate the dosimetric relationship between 3D radiotherapy and changes in salivary flow, xerostomia and quality of life in patients with head and neck cancer according to the volume of the irradiated parotid gland. Methods: 23 patients with cancer in the head and neck area and in need of 3D radiotherapy were followed up during radiotherapy treatment, and the parotid gland (PG) design was also performed in radiotherapy planning. Questionnaires were carried out to determine xerostomia and quality of life, while the salivary flow was determined through calculations regarding the collection and weighing of saliva. Such data were collected in three moments: before the beginning of the radiotherapy treatment (D0), in the middle of the treatment (D1) and at the end of it (D2). The numerical variables are represented by measures of central tendency and measures of dispersion. Results: when associating the salivary flow, the xerostomia questionnaire and the OHIP-14, a statistically significant difference was found (p-value <0.001), as well as when comparing some volumes of irradiated PG with the OHIP-14. However, no relationship was found between dosimetric data, xerostomia and hyposalivation. Conclusion: patients undergoing 3D radiotherapy for malignant neoplasms in the head and neck region had decreased salivary flow, increased complaints of dry mouth and decreased quality of life. However, it was not possible to establish a statistically significant correlation between these findings and the volumes of irradiated parotids.
Investigation of Heart Rate Variability and The Requirement for Vasopressors Relationship Due to Hypotension in Patients Undergoing Caesarean Section with Spinal Anesthesia
Authors: Bektaş Kübra , Yücel Duygu , Uğur Fatih
Published: January 2024

Introduction: The most common effect of spinal anesthesia applied in cesarean section operations is hypotension. It is very important to prevent hypotension due to fetal bradycardia, acidosis, and maternal effects. Objective: This research was conducted to predict and prevent maternal hypotension in pregnant women undergoing elective cesarean section with spinal anesthesia by measuring heart rate variability parameters about hypotension. Materials and Methods: The study included pregnant women aged 18-45 with ASA 2 classification who underwent elective cesarean section with spinal anesthesia. Using the 'CorSense Heart Rate Variability Finger Sensor by Elite HRV' device and its smartphone application, 102 volunteer pregnant patients were monitored for 5 minutes in the recovery unit, and their data were recorded. After the administration of spinal anesthesia, patients who exhibited a decrease in systolic blood pressure of 20% or more from their baseline values received intravenous ephedrine in 10 mg bolus doses at each instance of low blood pressure measurements. Patients who received a total of 20 mg or more ephedrine doses or more as needed were designated as 'Group 1,' while patients who received less than 20 mg or no ephedrine were classified as 'Group 2.' Results: This study was completed with a total of 102 pregnant patients With 46 patients in Group 1 and 56 patients in Group 2, the relevant parameters that showed a statistically significant difference between patient groups were subjected to ROC analysis for predicting hypotension. It was determined that patients with high HF POWER and TOTAL POWER values had a greater need for vasopressors due to hypotension following spinal anesthesia (p<0.05). Conclusion: In the research, these values are believed to have the potential to predict hypotension in patients undergoing cesarean sections with spinal anesthesia.
Pulsed Radiofrequency on Sphenopalatine Ganglion as the Interventional Pain Management in Cluster Headache Secondary to Sphenoid Meningioma
Authors: Rahmasena Naomi , Koeshardiandi Mirza , Mudianto Fajar Tri
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Cluster headache is one of the neurovascular headaches characterized by severe recurrent unilateral pain distributed around the orbit and accompanied by autonomic symptoms such as lacrimation, conjunctival injection nasal congestion or rhinorrhea, edema of the eyelid, sweating, and miosis. The attack usually lasts for 15 to 180 minutes. The possible mechanism of cluster headache is through the trigeminal-autonomic reflex. Management of the cluster headache is divided into pharmacological therapy including abortive and prophylaxis, as well as interventional pain management like deep brain stimulation, occipital nerve stimulation, and radiofrequency of the sphenopalatine ganglion. Objective: This report aims to demonstrate the effectivity of pulsed radiofrequency sphenopalatine ganglion on cluster headaches secondary to meningioma. Case Report: A 47-year-old female consulted the pain clinic with a chief complaint of profound facial pain for a year. The patient also reported autonomic symptoms such as rhinorrhea and lacrimation. The patient was diagnosed with meningioma and already treated with conventional therapy such as gabapentine, carbamazepine, omeprazole, and mecobalamin. Due to the location of meningioma which causes the tumor inoperable. The patient complained of constant and worsening pain, therefore pulsed radiofrequency on sphenopalatine ganglion was chosen to treat the patient. The patient reported relief of pain ever since. Discussion: Among the consequences and benefits, pulsed radiofrequency is the choice of interventional pain management. Possibly the pain from the compression of the greater palatine nerve, intervention on the sphenopalatine will cause relief of the pain. Pulsed radiofrequency on sphenopalatine ganglion was reported successful in alleviating the pain of the patient. Conclusion: Pulsed radiofrequency of the sphenopalatine ganglion successfully alleviates the pain of the cluster headache due to meningioma. However, further study with a bigger population is recommended to see the efficacy of interventional pain management objectively.
Oxygenase Enzyme Activity and Compound Profile in Hydrocarbon Bioremediation by Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Rhodococcus erythropolis Consortium
Authors: Yanuar Adi Tiya , Amin Abd. Aziz , Salamah Lutfi Ni'matus , Sujadi Frentina Murty , Wiratno Ekwan Nofa , Dewi Citra Satrya Utama , Kurniawan Andi
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Hydrocarbon contamination is one of the most significant environmental problems, including in the marine environment. Several methods, such as chemical and physical remediation, have been constructed to remediate pollutants but remain side effects and have a relatively high cost. Bioremediation is an alternative method for degrading contaminants due to its eco-friendliness and low cost. During bioremediation, the enzyme oxygenase is produced by bacteria to degrade pollutants. However, the oxygenation enzyme's activity and compound profile during this bioremediation process are still sparsely explored. This study aimed to analyze oxygenation enzyme activity and compound profiles during the hydrocarbon bioremediation process by bacterial consortia of Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Rhodococcus erythopolis. The materials of this research were the oxygenase enzyme activity, compound profile, and amount of BOD and COD during the bioremediation process. The results showed that the monooxygenase enzyme has activity between 0.257 and 3.859 U/mL. Meanwhile, the dioxygenase enzyme has activity between 0.579 and 5.402 U/mL. The final incubation compound profile found that Hexadecanoic acid methyl ester (C17H34O2) decreased by up to 47.66%. Moreover, BOD and COD reductions were 68.59% and 67.51%, respectively. This study concluded that oxygenation enzymes were produced to degrade pollutant compounds during the hydrocarbon bioremediation process. Further research is needed to improve the effectiveness of bioremediation by enhancing enzyme activity.
Highlight Research

The potential of hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria (Rhodococcus erythropolis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa) for pollutant degradation in the marine environment.
Enzyme activity of hydrocarbon-degrading bacteria and degradation profile of pollutants.
The dynamics of BOD and COD during the bioremediation process.
Recognition of the behaviors of dairy cows by an improved YOLO
Authors: Bai Qiang , Gao Ronghua , Li Qifeng , Wang Rong , Zhang Hongming
Published: January 2024

The physiological well-being of dairy cows is intimately tied to their behavior. Detecting aberrant dairy cows early and reducing financial losses on farms are both possible with real-time and reliable monitoring of their behavior. The behavior data of dairy cows in real environments have dense occlusion and multi-scale issues, which affect the detection results of the model. Therefore, we focus on both data processing and model construction to improve the results of dairy cow behavior detection. We use a mixed data augmentation method to provide the model with rich cow behavior features. Simultaneously refining the model to optimize the detection outcomes of dairy cow behavior amidst challenging conditions, such as dense occlusion and varying scales. First, a Res2 backbone was constructed to incorporate multi-scale receptive fields and improve the YOLOv3’s backbone for the multi-scale feature of dairy cow behaviors. In addition, YOLOv3 detectors were optimized to accurately locate individual dairy cows in different dense environments by combining the global location information of images, and the Global Context Predict Head was designed to enhance the performance of recognizing dairy cow behaviors in crowded surroundings. The dairy cow behavior detection model we built has an accuracy of 90.6%, 91.7%, 80.7%, and 98.5% for the four behaviors of dairy cows standing, lying, walking, and mounting, respectively. The average accuracy of dairy cow detection is 90.4%, which is 1.2% and 12.9% higher than the detection results of YOLOV3, YOLO-tiny and other models respectively. In comparison to YOLOv3, the Average Precision evaluation of the model improves by 2.6% and 1.4% for two similar features of walking and standing behaviors, respectively. The recognition results prove that the model generalizes better for recognizing dairy cow behaviors using behavior videos in various scenes with multi-scale and dense environment features.
Hypoxia-induced stabilization of HIF2A promotes cardiomyocyte proliferation by attenuating DNA damage
Authors: Ali Shah R. , Nguyen Ngoc Uyen Nhi , Menendez-Montes Ivan , Hsu Ching-Cheng , Elhelaly Waleed , Lam Nicholas T. , Li Shujuan , Elnwasany Abdallah , Nakada Yuji , Thet Suwannee , Foo Roger S. Y. , Sadek Hesham A.
Published: January 2024

Introduction: Gradual exposure to a chronic hypoxic environment leads to cardiomyocyte proliferation and improved cardiac function in mouse models through a reduction in oxidative DNA damage. However, the upstream transcriptional events that link chronic hypoxia to DNA damage have remained obscure.

Aim: We sought to determine whether hypoxia signaling mediated by the hypoxia-inducible factor 1 or 2 (HIF1A or HIF2A) underlies the proliferation phenotype that is induced by chronic hypoxia.

Methods and Results: We used genetic loss-of-function models using cardiomyocyte-specific HIF1A and HIF2A gene deletions in chronic hypoxia. We additionally characterized a cardiomyocyte-specific HIF2A overexpression mouse model in normoxia during aging and upon injury. We performed transcriptional profiling with RNA-sequencing on cardiac tissue, from which we verified candidates at the protein level. We find that HIF2A - rather than HIF1A - mediates hypoxia-induced cardiomyocyte proliferation. Ectopic, oxygen-insensitive HIF2A expression in cardiomyocytes reveals the cell-autonomous role of HIF2A in cardiomyocyte proliferation. HIF2A overexpression in cardiomyocytes elicits cardiac regeneration and improvement in systolic function after myocardial infarction in adult mice. RNA-sequencing reveals that ectopic HIF2A expression attenuates DNA damage pathways, which was confirmed with immunoblot and immunofluorescence.

Conclusion: Our study provides mechanistic insights about a new approach to induce cardiomyocyte renewal and mitigate cardiac injury in the adult mammalian heart. In light of evidence that DNA damage accrues in cardiomyocytes with aging, these findings may help to usher in a new therapeutic approach to overcome such age-related changes and achieve regeneration.
Taking antibacterial drugs without a doctor’s prescription in the Russian Federation
Authors: Chigrina V. P. , Tyufilin D. S. , Deev I. A. , Kobyakova O. S.
Published: January 2024

Background. Antibiotic resistance is a global threat leading to ineffective treatment of many infectious diseases. One of the factors contributing to an increase in antibiotic resistance is over-the-counter sale of antibiotics.

The aim of this study was to establish the sources of antibiotic prescription and to determine the prevalence of self-medication and factors that cause it.

Materials and methods. The computer-assisted web interview (CAWI) methodology was used in the study. The questionnaire consisted of six blocks and 41 questions. For statistical analysis of the study results, Statistica for Windows version 10.0 and R-Studio software programs were used.

Results. The study involved 2,725 people. Only 50.9% of the respondents purchased antibiotics with a prescription or got them during hospitalization. Parameters associated with over-the-counter purchase of antibiotics included female gender (odds ratio (OR) = 1.4; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.2–1.7), lack of higher education (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.3–1.9), medical education (OR = 1.7; 95% CI: 1.2–2.5), lack of awareness of a ban on over-the-counter sale of antibiotics (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.3–1.9), and relying on the knowledge (opinion) of family members or acquaintances as the main sources of information about the correct use of antibiotics (OR = 2.2; 95% CI: 1.7–2.9).

Conclusion. Antibiotic resistance can be reduced by propaganda and strict control over a ban on over-the-counter sale of antibiotics. It is also essential to update knowledge of medical professionals about antibacterial drugs and antibiotic resistance on a regular basis, also through raising their awareness of the development of antibiotic resistance in both patients and medical workers.
Prevalence of some internal diseases depending on the adipokine level in people under 45 years of age
Authors: Kashtanova E. V. , Polonskaya Ya. V. , Shcherbakova L. V. , Shramko V. S. , Stakhneva E. M. , Khudyakova A. D. , Sadovski E. V. , Denisova D. V. , Ragino Yu. I.
Published: January 2024

The aim was to study the prevalence of some common internal diseases in young people of working and childbearing age, depending on the levels of adipokines.

Materials and methods. The study included 1,340 people aged 25–44 years. The levels of leptin, adiponectin, adipsin, lipocalin-2, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and resistin were determined by the multiplex analysis. Low-density lipoprotein hypercholesterolemia (LDL hypercholesterolemia), coronary artery disease (CAD), type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), arterial hypertension (AH), renal dysfunction (RD), and chronic bronchitis (CB) were studied.

Results. With an increase in the level of adiponectin, the prevalence of CAD increased by 8.6 times. The highest quartile of the adipsin level was characterized by an increase in the prevalence of LDL hypercholesterolemia by 12.9%, AH by 3.9%, and RD by 17.9%. The quartiles of lipolkalin-2 showed higher prevalence of LDL hypercholesterolemia, AH, and RD in Q4 compared to Q1. The prevalence of CB was associated with a decrease in the level of lipocalin-2 and was higher by 35.9% within Q1 compared to Q4. In the quartiles of PAI-1, the prevalence of T2DM and LDL hypercholesterolemia was 2 and 1.5 times higher, respectively, and the prevalence of RD was 2.5 times lower in Q4 than in Q1. In quartiles of resistin, the prevalence of LDL hypercholesterolemia, AH, and RD increased by 13–38%, while the prevalence of CB decreased by 20% in Q4, compared to Q1. The prevalence of LDL hypercholesterolemia and RD was higher within Q4 of leptin.

Conclusion. The results indicate the need for further research aimed at studying the molecular mechanisms underlying the effects of adipokines. This will allow to find a combined approach to restoring normal physiological levels of adipokines, which can have a positive effect in the studied internal diseases.
Study of the immunomodulatory effect of lithium salt gamma-lactone of 2,3-dehydro-L-gulonic acid on healthy and malignant blood cells
Authors: Plotnikov E. V. , Tretyakova M. S. , Krivoshchekov S. V. , Belousov M. V. , Kolobovnikova Yu. V.
Published: January 2024

The aim of this work was to study the immunomodulatory effects of lithium salt gamma-lactone of 2,3-dehydro-Lgulonic acid (LiAc) on healthy blood leukocytes and leukemia cells in vitro.

Materials and methods. Peripheral blood lymphocytes and neutrophils obtained from healthy donors, as well as THP-1 cells (human monocytic leukemia) were used as test systems. To assess the proliferative activity, lymphocyte blast transformation was used. The antiproliferative effect was studied by the 3H-thymidine incorporation assay. Cytotoxic effects were studied using the Alamar Blue test. The effect on the phagocytic activity was studied using the method for assessing the neutrophil function during bacterial phagocytosis.

Results. LiAc exerted a dose-dependent effect on target cells, including antiproliferative and cytotoxic effects on leukemia cells and a stimulating effect on neutrophils in phagocytosis.

Conclusion. LiAc can be considered as a promising drug with immunomodulatory effects, including a suppressive effect on the proliferative activity of leukemia cells and a stimulating effect on immune mechanisms mediated by neutrophils and macrophages.
The DUX4-HIF1α Axis in Murine and Human Muscle Cells: A Link More Complex than Expected
Authors: Nguyen Thuy-Hang , Limpens Maelle , Bouhmidi Sihame , Paprzycki Lise , Legrand Alexandre , Declèves Anne-Emilie , Heher Philipp , Belayew Alexandra , Banerji Christopher R. S. , Zammit Peter S. , Tassin Alexandra
Published: January 2024

FacioScapuloHumeral Dystrophy (FSHD) is one of the most prevalent inherited muscle disorders, and is linked to the inappropriate expression of the DUX4 transcription factor in adult muscles. The deregulated molecular network causing FSHD skeletal muscle dysfunction and pathology is still not well understood. It has been shown that the hypoxia response factor HIF1α is critically disturbed in FSHD and has a major role in DUX4 induced cell death. In this study, we further explore the relationship between DUX4 and HIF1α. We found that the DUX4 and HIF1α link differed according to the stage of myogenic differentiation and was conserved between human and mouse muscle. Furthermore, we found that HIF1α knock-down in a mouse model of DUX4 local expression exacerbated DUX4-mediated muscle fibrosis. Our data indicate that the suggested role of HIF1α in DUX4 toxicity is complex and that targeting HIF1α might be challenging in the context of FSHD therapeutic approaches.
Extrinsic Quaternion Spin
Authors: Sanctuary Bryan
Published: January 2024

We present an analysis of the Dirac equation when the spin symmetry is changed from SU(2) to the quaternion group, $Q_8$, afforded by multiplying one of the $\gamma$-matrices by the imaginary number. The reason for doing this is to introduce a bivector into the spin algebra. This modifies the Dirac equation equation which separates into two distinct and complementary spaces: one describing polarization and the other coherence. The former describes a 2D structured spin and the latter its helicity, generated by a unit quaternion.
Effect of Essential oil Components on the Activity of Steroidogenic Cytochromes P450
Authors: Sharma Katyayani , Lanzilotto Angelo , Yakubu Jibira , Therkelsen Søren , Voegel Clarissa Daniela , Du Toit Therina , Jørgensen Flemming Steen , Pandey Amit V.
Published: January 2024

Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) may impact the development of Prostate Cancer (PCa) by altering the steroid metabolism. Although their exact mechanism of action in controlling tumor growth is not known, EDCs may inhibit steroidogenic enzymes such as CYP17A1 or CYP19A1 involved in the production of androgens or estrogens. High levels of circulating androgens are linked to PCa in men and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) in women. Essential Oils or their metabolites like lavender oil and tea tree oil have been reported to act as potential EDCs and contribute towards sex steroid imbalance in case of prepubertal gynecomastia in boys and premature thelarche in girls due to the exposure to lavender-based fragrances. We screened a range of EO components to determine their effects on CYP17A1 and CYP19A1. Computational docking was performed to predict the binding of Essential oils with CYP17A1 and CYP19A1, and functional assays were done using the radiolabeled substrates or Liquid Chromatography high‑resolution Mass Spectrometry and cell viability assays were carried out in LNCaP cells. Many of the tested compounds bind close to the active site of CYP17A1, and (+)-Cedrol had the best binding with CYP17A1 and CYP19A1. Eucalyptol, Dihydro-β-Ionone & (-)-α-pinene showed 20% to 40% inhibition of dehydroepiandrosterone production; and some compounds also effected CYP19A1. Extensive use of these Essential oils in various beauty and hygiene products is common, but only a limited knowledge about their potential detrimental side effects exists. Our results suggest that prolonged exposure to some of these essential oils may result in steroid imbalances. On the other hand, due to their effect on lowering androgen output, ability to bind at the active site of steroidogenic cytochrome P450s, these compounds may provide design ideas for the novel compounds against hyperandrogenic disorders such as PCa and PCOS.
Screw Extrusion-Based Additive Manufacturing of Polycarbonate, Polyether Ether Ketone (PEEK) and Continuous Fiber–Reinforced PEEK Composites
Authors: Amirahmadi Hadi , Behravesh Amir Hossein , Amirahmadi Ali , Ghaderi Iman , Hedayati Seyyed Kaveh , Tahmasebi Ahmadreza , Bakhtiyari Amir
Published: January 2024

In this research, a screw-barrel system was designed and implemented, coupled with material extrusion, to print high-melt-temperature thermoplastic materials. The aim was to integrate two methods: the direct extrusion of thermoplastic polymer pellets with material extrusion,utilize various polymers in the form of pellets, especially high melt temperature ones, instead of traditional filaments. This addresses one of the significant challenges in filament preparation for various materials that are not readily available in the market or nearly impossible to fabricate (such as highly filled plastics). First, the screw-barrel assembly performance and factors influencing feed rate were evaluated. Subsequently, specimens were printed with polyether ether ketone (PEEK), an advanced plastic material known for its outstanding mechanical properties, high-temperature tolerance, and broad applications in various sectors, such as medical. Additionally, the material was reinforced with 2.5% continuous glass fibers while printing, which presented a novel product. Upon comparing theoretical values with experimental data from the tensile testing, a notable observation emerged: the inclusion of 2.5% glass fibers led to an approximate 43% increase in the tensile strength of the material. Furthermore, SEM images provided visual evidence of satisfactory adhesion between layers and fibers.
Predictors of Knowledge, Attitudes and Practice about Heat Waves: An Exploratory Cross-Sectional Study in Greece
Authors: Moisoglou Ioannis , Katsiroumpa Aglaia , Kolisiati Antigoni , Tsiachri Maria , Konstantakopoulou Olympia , Gallos Parisis , Galanis Petros
Published: January 2024

Heat waves are a significant consequence of climate change threatening public health by increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to estimate individuals’ knowledge, attitudes and practice related to heat waves. We conducted an exploratory cross-sectional study in Greece during September 2023. We employed a convenience sample of 1055 participants. We used the heat wave knowledge, awareness, practice and behavior scale (HWKAPBS) to measure our outcome. We measured several socio-demographic variables, such as gender, age, educational level, etc. as potential determinants. Mean scores for the knowledge, awareness, practice and behavior factors were 12.5, 22.7, 22.2 and 12.1 respectively. Females had higher scores on the four factors compared with males. We found a positive relationship between self-perceived health status and awareness, practice and behavior about heat waves. Similarly, we identified a positive relationship between self-perceived financial status and awareness and behavior about heat waves. Increased age was associated with increased practice score, while increased educational level was associated with increased knowledge score. Additionally, behavior score was higher among participants in urban areas than those in rural areas. We found statistically significant positive correlations between the four factors. Levels of knowledge, awareness, practice and behavior about heat waves were high in our sample. Several socio-demographic variables affect participants’ knowledge, awareness, practice and behavior concerning heat waves.
CRISPR/CAS Genome Editing Technology: Implications And Challenges
Authors: Nazir Taha , A. Mirza Hameed , Taha Nida
Published: January 2024

Scientists can use the Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated (Cas) protein 9 system, which is a powerful and flexible tool for changing the genome, to change only certain parts of the genome. This has helped researchers figure out how target genes work in biology and disease. CRISPR/Cas9 is made up of a sequence-specific CRISPR RNA (crRNA) set and a generic Cas9 nuclease. The crRNA set tells Cas9 where to cut DNA and cause double-strand breaks. In the next step of cellular DNA repair, insertions, deletions, and swaps are made at specific spots. For CRISPR/Cas9-mediated DNA cleavage to be specific, the target sequences must match the crRNA, and a protospacer nearby motif must be placed after the target sequences. In this article, we talk about how CRISPR/Cas9 works at the molecular level, what it can be used for, what it can't do, and what its future clinical treatment promise might be.
Rapid and Non-Destructive of Moisture Content in Maize seeds Using Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Xue Hang , Xu Xiping , Yang Yang , Hu Dongmei , Niu Guocheng
Published: January 2024

The moisture content of maize seed is an important indicator for evaluating seed quality and a fundamental item in grain testing. The experiment used direct drying method to measure the moisture content of 80 different varieties of maize samples, and captured their images using a hyperspectral imaging (HSI) system in the spectral range of 1100~2498nm. By comparing seven spectral preprocessing methods, the PLSR model established after Normalize pretreatment had the best effect. The characteristic wavelengths were selected by Successive Projections Algorithm (SPA), Competitive Adaptive Reweighted Sampling (CARS) and Uninformative Variable Elimination (UVE). Twelve prediction models were established for full band spectra and characteristic wavelengths based on PLSR, PCR and SVM. By comparing the performance of the prediction models, it was found the Normalize-SPA-PLSR algorithm was optimized. The values of RC2 and RP2 in the model were higher, which were 0.9936 and 0.9933, respectively, while the values of RMSEP and RMSECV were lower, which were 0.0357 and 0.0380, respectively. The Normalize-SPA-PLSR model was used as a visual prediction model for moisture content of maize seed, the 20 maize varieties in the prediction set were visualized to obtain visualized color images of moisture content. The color differences between different moisture content images were significant. The result indicated that hyperspectral imaging could accurately, rapidly, and non-destructive predict moisture content of maize seed, which provided technical support for moisture content detection in the process of maize harvest, storage and processing.
Transient Response of an Inﬁnite Isotropic Magneto-Electro-Elastic Material with Multiple Axisymmetric Planar Cracks
Authors: Vahdati Alireza , Salehi Mehdi , Vahabi Meisam , Ghassemi Aazam , Fesharaki Javad Jafari
Published: January 2024

Dynamic behavior of coaxial axisymmetric planar cracks in the transversely isotropic magneto-electro-elastic (MEE) material in transient in-plane magneto-electro-mechanical loading is studied. Magneto-electrically impermeable as well as permeable cracks are assumed for crack surface. In the first step, considering prismatic and radial dynamic dislocations, electric and magnetic jumps are obtained through Laplace and Hankel transforms. These solutions are utilized to derive singular integral equations in the Laplace domain for the axisymmetric penny-shaped and annular cracks. Derived Cauchy singular type integral equations are solved to obtain the density of dislocation on the crack surfaces. Dislocation densities are utilized in computation of the dynamic stress intensity factors, electric displacement and magnetic induction in the vicinity tips of crack tips. Finally, some numerical case studies of a single and multiple cracks are presented. The effect of system parameters on the results is then discussed.
Microbiome Modulates Immune System to Influence Cancer Therapy
Authors: Roy Ruchi , Singh Sunil Kumar
Published: January 2024

Gut microbiota composition can affect tumor microenvironment and its interaction with the immune system, thereby having implications on treatment predictions. This article reviews the studies available to better understand how gut microbiomes help the immune system to fight cancer. To describe this fact, different mechanisms, and approaches of utilizing probiotics to improve advancements in cancer treatment will be discussed. Moreover, not only the calorie intake but also the variety and quality of diet can influence cancer patient’s immunotherapy treatment because dietary patterns could impair the immunological activities either by stimulating or suppressing the innate and adaptive immunity. Therefore, it is interesting and critical to understand the gut microbiome composition as a biomarker to decide cancer immunotherapy outcomes and responses. Here, more emphasis would be given to the recent development in immunotherapies utilizing microbiota to improve cancer therapies which is beneficial for cancer patients.
Low-salt Diet Regulates the Metabolic and Signal Transduc-tion Genomic Fabrics, and Remodels the Cardiac Normal and Chronic Pathological Pathways
Authors: Iacobas Dumitru A. , Allen Haile , Iacobas Sanda
Published: January 2024

Keywords: Adrenergic signaling in cardiomyocytes; cardiac muscle contraction; Chagas disease; diabetic cardiomyopathy; dilated cardiomyopathy; glycerolipid metabolism; glycolisis/glucogenesis; hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; purine metabolism; steroid hormone biosynthesis.
Matter Is the Representation of Space-Time
Authors: Deng Xiaohan , Deng Zhiyong
Published: January 2024

The continuous flowing spacetime forms a spacetime group G, one of its fundamental groups is the Poincare group PO(1,3), and the matter and interaction fields are representations of its intrinsic spacetime group. As a kind of quantized space-time unit, space-time group elements generate both space-time manifolds and matter. Matter and fields are aggregates of the quantum space-time within them and determine their type: the Lorentz group SO(1,3) represents a rotating spacetime corresponding to visible matter and the translation group P1,3 represents a translational spacetime corresponding to dark matter and dark energy. The aggregation mode of space-time degrees of freedom in matter reveals that charge conjugation symmetry is the inverse symmetry of internal time of charged particles, and the external parity breaking of neutrinos is also due to their internal spatial aggregation mode.
Bactericidal Efficacy of the Combination of Maresin-like Pro-resolving Mediators and Carbenicillin Action on Biofilm-Forming Burn-Trauma Infection Related Bacteria
Authors: Thamizhchelvan Anbu Mozhi , Masoud Abdul-Razak , Su Shanchun , Peng Hongying , Kobayashi Yuichi , Wang Yu , Archer Nathan , Hong Song
Published: January 2024

Biofilm-associated bacterial infections are the major reason for treatment failure in many diseases including burn trauma infections. Uncontrolled inflammation induced by bacteria leads to materiality, tissue damage and chronic diseases. Specialized proresolving mediators (SPMs), including maresin-like lipid mediators (MarLs), are enzymatically biosynthesized from omega-3 essential long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) by macrophages and other leukocytes. SPMs exhibit strong inflammation-resolving activities, especially inflammation provoked by bacterial infection. In this study, we explored the potential direct inhibitory activities of three MarLs on gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative (Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) bacteria in their biofilms that are leading bacteria in burn trauma related infections. We also examined the effects of MarLs on the bactericidal activities of a typical broad-spectrum antibiotics carbenicillin on these bacteria in their preformed biofilms. The results revealed that MarLs combined with carbenicillin can inhibit the survival of gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria in their biofilms although MarLs alone did not exhibit bactericidal activity. Thus, our findings suggest that the combination of MarLs and carbenicillin can lower the antibiotic requirements to kill the bacteria in preformed biofilms.
Ultrasound and Elastosonographic Features of the Patellar Ligament in Dogs Affected by Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture
Authors: Luca Pennasilico , Volta Antonella , Sassaroli Sara , Di Bella Caterina , Riccio Valentina , Pilati Nicola , Tambella Adolfo Maria , Dini Fabrizio , Palumbo Piccionello Angela
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the morpho-functional change of the patellar ligament in dogs affected by cranial cruciate ligament rupture. The hypothesis is that it may show increased thickening and stiffness with increasing days from trauma to diagnosis. Understanding this aspect have implications on the choice of timing to treat patients suffering from cranial cruciate ligament rupture, and also in the contextualization of patellar ligament desmitis pictures after surgical treatment with tibial plateau levelling osteotomy or tibial tuberosity advanced. Thirty-three dogs were affected affected by unilateral cranial cruciate rupture were examined and divided into three groups based on the time elapsed from the onset of lameness to diagnosis: Group 1 (from 1 to 15 days), Group 2 (from 16 to 60 days), Group 3 (over 60 days). Conventional B-mode ultrasonographic and elastosonographic examinations of patellar ligament were performed without sedation for each dog. At the ultrasonographic examination, all dogs showed alterations in the echostructure of the patellar ligament. In addition, the patellar ligament tended to become harder and less soft with increasing days after rupture, although there were not significant differences between groups. Our results showed that as time increases between the onset of cranial cruciate ligament rupture and diagnosis and treatment, the patellar ligament progressively thickens and loses its elasticity.
The Transcriptional Regulatory Mechanisms Exploration of Jujube Biological Traits through Multi-omics Analysis
Authors: Zhang Shulin , Chen Zhuo , Feng Luying , Zhi Zhaokun , Liu Yiteng , Zhang Mengmeng , Yue Huafeng , Zhu Gao-Pu , Gao Fuling
Published: January 2024

Jujube (Ziziphus jujuba Mill.) stands as a pivotal fruit tree with significant economic, ecological, and social value. Recent years have witnessed remarkable strides in multi-omics-based biological re-search on jujube. This review began by summarizing advancements in jujube genomics. Subse-quently, we provided a comprehensive overview of the integrated application of genomics, tran-scriptomics, and metabolomics to explore pivotal genes governing jujube domestication traits, quality attributes (including sugar synthesis, terpenoids, and flavonoids), and responses to abiotic stress, and discussed the transcriptional regulatory mechanisms underlying these traits. Further-more, challenges in multi-omics research on jujube biological traits were outlined, and we pro-posed the integration of resources such as pan-genomics and sRNAome to unearth key molecules and regulatory networks influencing diverse biological traits. Incorporating these molecules into practical breeding strategies, including gene editing, transgenic approaches, and progressive breeding, holds the potential for achieving molecular-design breeding and efficient genetic en-hancement of jujube.
Development of Systemic Interventions to Decrease Breast Cancer Risk: A Group Concept Mapping Study
Authors: Gray Janet , Buermyer Nancy , Petrucci Carrie , Engel Connie , Green-Washington Nyisha
Published: January 2024

As breast cancer continues to take a devasting public health toll, most primary prevention approaches are targeted at individual actions. We have proposed, instead, developing systemic, population approaches to preventing the disease. We used a combined qualitative-quantitative methodology, Group Concept Mapping (GCM), to identify Importance and Feasibility ratings of systemic interventions across a wide spectrum of approaches and stakeholders. Participants (n=351) from across the state of California sorted 84 potential interventions into topical piles, and then rated each intervention on perceived Importance and Feasibility. Multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis identified eleven clusters or themes of interventions. Participants rated interventions on Importance and Feasibility differently depending on the region of the state in which they lived. The results of this study underscore the importance of sharing health information with and seeking public health solutions from community partners in general and from beyond the urban areas usually studied.
Quantification of Circulating Cell-Free DNA in Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease Patients
Authors: Wojtkowska Małgorzata , Karczewska Natalia , Pacewicz Klaudia , Pacak Andrzej , Kopeć Piotr , Florczak - Wyspiańska Jolanta , Popławska - Domaszewicz Karolina , Małkiewicz Tomasz , Sokół Bartosz
Published: January 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is one of the most common neurodegenerative disorders globally, and leads to an excessive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra of the brain. Circulating cell-free DNA (ccf-DNA) are double-stranded DNA fragments of different sizes and origins that are released into the serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) due to cell death (i.e., necrosis and apoptosis) or are actively released by viable cells via exocytosis and NETosis. Methods: Using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction (ddPCR) we comprehensively analyzed and distinguished ccfDNA and ccf mtDNA in the serum and CSF of PD and control patients. Results: The quantitative analysis of serum ccf-DNA in PD patients demonstrated significant increase of ccf mtDNA and ccfDNA compared to healthy control patients and significantly higher copy of ccf mtDNA when compared to ccfDNA. Next, the serum ccf mtDNA levels significantly increased in male PD patients compared to healthy male controls. Furthermore, CSF ccf mtDNA in PD patients increased significantly compared to ccfDNA, and ccf mtDNA decreased in PD patients compared to healthy controls. These decreases were not statistically significant, but were in agreement with previous data. In-terestingly, ccf mtDNA increased in healthy control patients in both serum and CSF as compared to ccfDNA. Limitations: the small sample size of serum and CSF were the main limitations of this study. Conclusion: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first comprehensive study on serum and CSF of PD patients using ddPCR and indicating the distribution of the copy number of ccf mtDNA, as well as ccfDNA. If validated, we suggest that ccf mtDNA has greater than ccfDNA potential to lead the development of novel treatments for PD patients.
Infantile Hemangiomas of the Head and Neck: A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Kizmazoglu Deniz , İnce Dilek , Olgun Yüksel , Cecen Emre , Guleryuz Handan , Erdağ Taner Kemal , Olgun Nur
Published: January 2024

Background: Infantile hemangiomas (IHs) are the most common benign vascular tumors of infancy.
Methods: We report our experience of 248 patients with head and neck IHs.
Results: The median age on admission was 4 months, and female/male ratio was 2.17. Among the cases, 45% were followed without treatment. No local complications were observed in any of these patients. Propranolol was given to all patients who received medical treatment. The median duration of treatment was 12 months (1-30 months), and the median follow-up period of all patients was 14 months (0-118 months). The treatment response was 98%. Complication rate was 17% and children aged between 3 and 9 months accounted for 60% of patients who developed complications. Most of the complications were local complications such as bleeding, ulcer, and infection.
Conclusion: Although most of them regress spontaneously, complications may occur. Propranolol alone is an effective treatment option, and early treatment initiation increases success rates.
Can Black Holes or Other Relativistic Space Objects Be a Source of Dark Energy?
Authors: Parnovsky Serge
Published: January 2024

We considered the hypothesis that the sources of dark energy (DE) could be black holes (BHs) or more exotic objects, such as naked singularities or gravastars. We proposed a definition of the presence of DE in the Universe and a criterion for what can be considered the source of this dark energy. It is based on the idea of the accelerated expansion of the Universe, which requires antigravity caused by large negative pressure. A recently proposed hypothesis was examined that mass of BHs increases with time according to the same law as the volume of the part of the Universe containing it and the population of BHs can mimic DE. We demonstrate the reasons why it cannot be accepted, even if all the assumptions on which this hypothesis is based are considered true.
Implementasi Algoritma Centroid Linkage dan K-Medoids dalam Mengelompokkan Kabupaten/Kota di Sulawesi Selatan Berdasarkan Indikator Pendidikan
Authors: Raja Nur Alfianingsih , Tinungki Georgina Maria , Sirajang Nasrah
Published: January 2024

Cluster analysis is a multivariate analysis technique that aims to cluster the observational data or variables into clusters in such a way that each cluster is homogeneous according to the factors used for clustering. This study used the Centroid linkage algorithm that was useful for forming groups based on the distance between centroids and the K-Medoids algorithm that was based on the use of the most centered object (medoid) to group districts/cities and obtained comparison results based on the education indicator data in South Sulawesi. The implementation of the Centroid Linkage Algorithm and K-Medoids on the education indicator data in South Sulawesi in 2018, showed that the grouping of districts/cities in South Sulawesi produced 2 clusters with cluster 1 of 21 districts/cities, and cluster 2 of 3. To determine the best method, it was seen from the value of the Standard Deviation ratio in the cluster 〖(S〗_W) and Standard Deviation between Clusters 〖(S〗_B) showed the same standard deviation ratio (S) in the Centroid Linkage algorithm and K-Medoids that was equal to 104,967.
Penerapan Model Regresi Hurdle Binomial Negatif Menggunakan Algoritma Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno pada Data Jumlah Kematian Bayi di Kota Makassar Tahun 2017
Authors: Yusuf Anisa Haura Salsa Fatih , Jaya Andi Kresna , Sahriman Sitti
Published: January 2024

Poisson regression is a nonlinear regression method used to analyse the relationship between discrete response variables. Equidispersion is the assumption that must be met in the Poisson regression. Furthermore, there are cases in which the equidispersion assumption is invalidated when using the Poisson regression model to analyze data. One such case is overdispersion, which occurs when there is an excess of zero. As a result, the Negative Hurdle Binomial (HBN) regression is implemented to solve the overdispersion issue. Maximum Likelihood Estimation (MLE) with the Broyden-Fletcher-Goldfarb-Shanno (BFGS) algorithm was applied in this study to perform parameter estimation. In addition, the HBN regression model was used to analyze the data on the number of infant mortality cases in Makassar in 2017 with the variables assumed to be significant with infant mortality. The percentage of infants who were exclusively breastfed was the variable that had a significant impact on the outcome of HBN regression on the data on the number of infant mortality that experienced overdispersion.
Understanding the Essence of Class Culture in Building the Pancasila Learner Profile: An Approach to Quality Education
Authors: Robiultsani Abdillah Rosyid , Budiyanto Cucuk. Wawan , Siyamtiningtyas Yuliyani
Published: January 2024

This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach to explore the essence of classroom culture in shaping the profile of Pancasila learners in class XI PPLG at one of the state vocational schools in Surakarta. Through participatory observation and in-depth interviews, teachers have been shown to play a central role in integrating national values, such as the habit of praying, giving advice, and creating a learning environment that supports learners' social development. Practices such as cooperation activities, group sharing for presentations, and giving learners the freedom to be independent became an integral part of the classroom culture. The results show positive developments in learners' tolerance towards different religions and opinions. The conclusion of the study confirms the importance of a deep understanding of classroom culture as the main key to creating quality education, which not only transfers knowledge but also shapes learners' characters into a generation with intelligence, character, and personality.
Analisis Minat Belajar Peserta Didik Kelas XI PPLG A di SMK Negeri 5 Surakarta Berdasarkan Minat Belajar Teman Sebaya
Authors: Luthfia Izza , Basori Basori , Kurniasari Kurniasari
Published: January 2024

Berdasarkan hasil pengumpulan data melalui observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi, diperoleh data sebagai berikut, minat belajar peserta didik di SMK N 5 Surakarta berpengaruh pada teman sebaya. Karena interaksi dengan teman sebaya dan mulai berinteraksi dengan teman-teman sebayanya dengan pola perilaku yang berbeda-beda. Sehingga dengan interaksi inilah setiap individu akan saling memahami keinginan-keinginan dan sering akan membentuk kelompok-kelompok jika memiliki kesamaan atas keinginan, pola pikir dan merasa cocok dengan teman-temannya. tetapi untuk minat belajar dalam pembelajaran coding pemrograman masih sedikit kurang minat.