bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid-Film Flow Rate From Measurements of Disturbance Wave Characteristics for Applications in Thin Film Flow
Authors: Chan Jason , Morse Roman W. , Meissner Maggie A. , Dressler Kristofer M. , Hurlburt Evan T. , Nellis Gregory F. , Berson Arganthael
Published: March 2024

This paper discusses the development of a liquid-film thickness measurement technique using laser refractometry and the extension of this technique to enable the measurements of wave height, shape, frequency and velocity. The measurement technique is implemented in a falling water film facility for ease of method validation. The falling-film facility provides optical access to the film which allows the laser refractometry measurements to be compared to high-speed imaging of the waves directly. The total mass flow rate carried by the film (waves and base film) can be computed based on the laser refractometry measurement and compared to the actual liquid flow rate in the falling film facility in order to validate the technique without the complication of droplet entrainment that is typical in annular flow.
Assessing the Robustness of Randomized Controlled Trials on Neuromonitoring in Thyroid Surgery: Utilizing the Fragility and Reverse Fragility Index
Authors: Bollo-Arocena Elisabet , Gallego Lander , Carballo Laura , Galan Carlos Placer
Published: March 2024

Purpose
The Fragility Index (FI) and Reverse Fragility Index (RFI)) are novel metrics that have been developed to evaluate the robustness of RCTs. The aim of this study was to assess the robustness of RCTs, in the use of intraoperative neuromonitoring (IOMN) in the thyroid surgery field, using FI, RFI, and their respective fragility quotients.
Methods
A Systematic search was conducted based on the PRISMA which utilized MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases. Inclusion criteria included RCTs related to the IONM in the thyroid surgery with dichotomous outcome measures and 1:1 allocation. Fragile results were defined as those with an FI or RFI equal to or less than the number of patients lost to follow-up or those with an FI or RFI less than 3.
Results
There were 8 RCTs that met our criteria with 2473 patients with 4607 nerves at risk. Among them, 2 (25%) were positive RCTs (p < 0.05) and 6 (75%) were negative RCTs (p > 0.05). The median FI was 2 (IQR 0–2). The median RFI was 3.5 (IQR 1.6–6). Based on the relationship between an FI/RFI ratio of less than 3, two (25%) studies were considered fragile. Furthermore, based on the relationship between FI/RFI and the number of patients lost during follow-up, 4 (50%) studies were considered fragile.
Conclusions
Using the new metrics, FI and RFI, the RCTs that did not demonstrate superiority with the use of IONM in thyroid surgery were more robust than those that did show superiority. However, controversy regarding the utility of IONM is not closed
Dual Vision Transformer-DSUNET With Feature Fusion for Brain Tumor Segmentation
Authors: Zakariah Mohammed , Al-Razgan Muna , Alfakih Taha
Published: March 2024

Brain tumors are one of the leading causes of cancer death; screening early is the best strategy to diagnose and treat brain tumors. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is extensively utilized for brain tumor diagnosis; nevertheless, achieving improved accuracy and performance, which is a critical challenge in most of the previously reported automated medical diagnostics, is a difficult problem. The study introduces the Dual Vision Transformer-DSUNET model, which incorporates feature fusion techniques to provide precise and efficient differentiation between brain tumors and other brain regions by leveraging multi-modal MRI data. The impetus for this study arises from the necessity of automating the segmentation process of brain tumors in medical imaging, a critical component in the realms of diagnosis and therapy strategy. To tackle this issue the BRATS 2020 dataset is employed, an extensively utilized dataset for the segmentation of brain tumors. This dataset encompasses multi-modal MRI images, including T1-weighted, T2-weighted, T1Gd (contrast-enhanced), and FLAIR modalities. The proposed model incorporates the dual vision idea to comprehensively capture the heterogeneous properties of brain tumors across several imaging modalities. Moreover, the utilization of feature fusion techniques is implemented to augment the amalgamation of data originating from several modalities, hence enhancing the accuracy and dependability of tumor segmentation. The evaluation of the Dual Vision Transformer-DSUNET model's performance is conducted by employing the Dice Coefficient as a prevalent metric for quantifying segmentation accuracy. The results obtained from the experiment exhibit remarkable performance, with Dice Coefficient values of 91.47% for enhanced tumors, 92.38% for core tumors, and 90.88% for edema. The cumulative Dice score for the entirety of the classes is 91.29%. In addition, the model has a high level of accuracy, roughly 99.93%, which underscores its durability and efficacy in the task of segmenting brain tumors. Experimental findings demonstrate the integrity of the suggested architecture, which has quickly improved the detection accuracy of many brain diseases.
Sociodemographic characteristics related to inequality in depression treatment in Peruvian adults: a concentration index decomposition approach
Authors: Intimayta-Escalante Claudio
Published: March 2024

Background Depressive symptoms affect a significant proportion of Peruvian population, between 13.8% and 15.1% since 2014 to 2018. However, only the 14.1% did not receive treatment, this gap in treatment is influenced for sociodemographic conditions. The study aim was assessing demographic characteristics related to inequalities in the depression treatment receiving in Peruvian adults.Methods Utilizing data from the 2017–2022 Demographic and Health Survey, we conducted an analytic cross-sectional study. Inequality in treatment receipt was evaluated using concentration curves for estimated Concentration Index (CI), and the Erreygers Concentration Index (ECI), with the wealth index serving as an equity stratified. Decomposition analysis was employed to examine disparities among sociodemographic characteristics, including sex, age, education, residence, health insurance, and ethnicity.Results Of the 35,925 Peruvian adults with depressive symptoms surveyed, only 10.82% received treatment. Our analysis revealed treatment recipients were concentrated in higher wealth quintiles (CI: 22.08, 95% CI: 20.16 to 24.01, p < 0.01). Disparities persisted across various demographic groups, with urban residency (ECI: 0.03, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.03, p < 0.001), those without education (ECI: 0.05, 95% CI: 0.03 to 0.07, p < 0.001), Afro-Peruvians (ECI: 0.06, 95% CI: 0.04 to 0.08, p < 0.001), and women (ECI: 0.07, 95% CI: 0.06 to 0.08, p < 0.001) experiencing lower received treatment, influenced by wealth quintile.Conclusion Only one in ten Peruvian adults with depressive symptoms received treatment. Sociodemographic conditions such as living in rural areas, outside of the capital region, having low educational level, and identifying as Quechua or Aymara were the main components of inequality in the receipt of treatment for depressive symptoms.
MCT1-Mediated Endothelial Cell Lactate Shuttle as a Target for Promoting Axon Regeneration after Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Shi Chaoran , Xu Jiaqi , Ding Yinghe , Yuan Feifei , Zhu Fengzhang , Wu Tianding , Duan Chunyue , Lu Hongbin , Hu Jianzhong , Jiang Liyuan
Published: March 2024

Vascular damage following spinal cord injury (SCI) precipitates ischemia and hypoxia at the injury site, leading to profound metabolic disturbances. The implications of these metabolic disorders on neural tissue remodeling and functional recovery remain poorly understood. Our study elucidates the consequences of the hypoxic environment induced by SCI, which significantly enhances glycolysis and lactate production at the injury's epicenter. And our findings revealed a marked decrease in the expression of Monocarboxylate Transporter 1 (MCT1), a crucial transporter facilitating lactate delivery to neurons and consequently supporting their energy metabolism, within vascular endothelial cells emerging after SCI. This decrease disrupts lactate transport to neurons, resulting in metabolic imbalances that impede axonal regeneration. Remarkably, our research demonstrates that targeted delivery of adeno-associated virus (AAV) injections to restore MCT1 expression in endothelial cells (ECs) promotes axonal regeneration and functional recovery in SCI mouse models. These findings reveal a previously unrecognized connection between lactate shuttling from ECs to neurons after SCI and neural functional recovery. Highlighting a novel metabolic pathway for intervention, our study opens new therapeutic avenues for the treatment of spinal cord injuries, suggesting that targeting lactate transport mechanisms may offer significant benefits in SCI recovery.
Exploring physiologic regulatory factors in traumatic brain injury (TBI) through Correlation Analysis and Graph Neural Network
Authors: A. Hasitha Kuruwita , Ng Shu Kay , Liew Alan Wee-Chung , Richards Brent , Haseler Luke , Kumar Kuldeep , Ross Kelvin , Zhang Ping
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most common cause of mortality and disability globally. Intensive care unit (ICU) management poses significant challenges for medical practitioners, primarily because of the complex interplay between biomarkers and hidden interactions. This study aimed to uncover subtle interconnections between biomarkers and identify the key factors contributing to TBI characteristics and ICU severity scores.
Methods
A total of 29 patients with TBI who were admitted to the ICU were selected and analysed using monitoring electrocardiography (ECG), vital signs, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) and electronic medical records. This study utilized a methodology that integrates correlation-based network analysis and graph neural network (GNN) techniques to uncover hidden relationships between various biomarkers and identify the most critical monitoring biomarkers for patients with TBI within the first 12 hours of ICU stay.
Results
The analysis revealed significant associations within the dataset. Specifically, MeanRR exhibited notable connections with alterations in systolic blood pressure and heart rate variations. Moreover, the final GCS showed a strong correlation, including long-term correlation with heart rate variability (HRV) feature alpha2, variability in atrial blood pressure means and diastolic blood pressure, gender, and age. Variability of diastolic blood pressure, GCS ICU scoring values, and pNN50 (an HRV measure) demonstrated strong association with other biomarkers during the first 12 hours following ICU admission.
Conclusion
HRV as an electronic biomarker and the variability in physiological variables during first 12 hours in the ICU are equally important factors for TBI severity assessment and can offer valuable insights into the patient's health prognosis.
Left atrioventricular valve regurgitation after complete atrioventricular septal defect repair
Authors: Kawase Takumi , Itatani Keiichi , Haibara Jiryo , Masaki Shota , Suda Hisao
Published: March 2024

Background:
Left ventricular outflow tract stenosis and atrioventricular valve regurgitation are often problems encountered in adulthood after complete atrioventricular septal defect repair.
The surgical approach and indications for managing long-term outcomes such as left atrioventricular valve regurgitation and left ventricular outflow tract stenosis after complete atrioventricular septal defect repair have been discussed.
Case presentation:
A 23-year-old woman with intellectual disability was diagnosed with complete atrioventricular septal defect and underwent two-patch repair without cleft closure in childhood. Follow-up examination in adulthood demonstrated moderate left-sided atrioventricular valve regurgitation and left ventricular outflow tract stenosis with a circumferential ridge (peak velocity, 3.7 m/s; pressure gradient, 54 mmHg). Intraoperative findings showed a circumferential ridge under the aortic valve, and we removed the ridge. In addition, a cleft was present at the anterior leaflet, and we completely closed the cleft. Anticoagulation therapy was not initiated, and no embolic complications occurred. Follow-up echocardiography demonstrated no ridge under the aortic valve and only mild-range left AVVR.
Conclusions:
We successfully performed surgical treatment without valve replacement or anticoagulation therapy in a patient with poor medical compliance. Delayed reoperation leads to degeneration of the valve structure and makes more difficult to repair. Clinicians must evaluate atrioventricular valve regurgitation in combination with the dilatation annulus, cleft size, and depth of the leaflet coaptation area.
Efficient Lightweight UAV Image Target Detection Model Based on YOLOv7
Authors: yin shuai , sun xiaobo
Published: March 2024

In the realm of UAV aerial imagery target recognition, detecting small objects presents substantial challenges due to their diminutive size, occlusions among targets, scarcity of distinctive features, and the complexity of backgrounds. To address these issues, this study introduces YOLOv7-PBLight, an innovative, high-precision, and efficient model designed to enhance the accuracy of small object detection in UAV imagery while balancing operational efficiency. Building on the YOLOv7 algorithm, our approach incorporates several key improvements to effectively tackle these challenges: By analyzing the roles of different detection heads, the model eliminates the second subsampling layer and the deepest detection head, thus reducing its receptive field to preserve fine-grained feature information critical for accurate detection of small objects. Furthermore, a Dual-Level Routing Attention (BRA) mechanism is integrated to augment the network's focus on small targets, thereby improving overall algorithm performance. A novel loss function that combines Normalized Gaussian Wasserstein Distance (NWD) with CIOU is introduced to diminish the sensitivity of small objects to positional inaccuracies. Finally, the YOLOv7 backbone is refined using the lightweight network ShuffleNetv2, reducing the model's parameter size and computational burden. Additionally, the utilization of deep separable convolution technology enhances the ELAN and MPConv modules, culminating in the development of YOLOv7-PBiKlight, a lightweight network that achieves a balance between precision and speed. Empirical validation demonstrates that the proposed method effectively resolves the challenges of aerial target detection, significantly improving detection precision with a 4.6% increase in mAP_0.5on the VisDrone2021, reducing the model's parameter size by 67%, and achieving competitive accuracy and speed compared to other algorithms in the field.
Overwintering at multiple life stages in Schizotetranychus shii (Acari: Tetranychidae), a specialist of evergreen chinquapin
Authors: Nagata Kohei , Negoro Yamato , Ito Katsura
Published: March 2024

Host availability in winter affects the overwintering strategies of herbivorous arthropods. Spider mites (Acari: Tetranychidae) overwinter as eggs or adult females, but some do so as multiple life stages on evergreen hosts. For example, in Schizotetranychus brevisetosus, adult females and their eggs stay on host leaves in mid-winter. However, few studies have focused on proximate factors generating such overwintering stages. Here, we investigated photoperiodic responses and life-stage compositions in winter in a population of Schizotetranychus shii, a specialist of Japanese chinquapin (Fagaceae). The proportion of non-ovipositing females at 20°C followed a sigmoid curve with increasing photoperiod, and the critical day length (CDL) was estimated as 11.8L, which corresponds to the environments from late September to early October. Although females grown under 10–11L conditions never oviposited within 7 days, 90–96% of them started oviposition within only 30 days without chilling (n = 23–31). In the field, all life stages were observed to occur throughout winter, but their proportions varied drastically. The proportion of eggs declined from early October (62%) to early December (12%), as predicted by CDL, but steeply increased toward late February (96%), during which only adult females and eggs remained. In summary, a short photoperiod in October arrests oviposition in emerging females, but they soon commence oviposition in November while immature stages are still growing, and individuals at all life stages (including a new generation) coexist until all immature stages mature in February. This novel pattern suggests that evergreen hosts allow spider mites to evolve overwintering strategies with little phylogenetic constraint.
Early Therapeutic Drug Monitoring Optimizes Teicoplanin Use in Patients with Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Wang Yu-Wen , Hou Hsin-An , Lin Chien-Chin , Lin Hsing-Yu , Chen Pin-Zi , Kuo Ching-Hua , Chiu Huai-Hsuan , Chuang Chia-Chi , Chen Yi-Jing , Lin Shu-Wen
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Teicoplanin is a time-dependent glycopeptide antibiotic. The trough concentration (Cmin) ≥ 15–20 mg/L between the fourth and sixth day has been suggested for severe infections or the management of febrile neutropenia (FN). Owing to no reports discussing the impact of early target attainment on treatment outcomes, this study aimed to evaluate the dose–Cmin relationship and clinical outcome and estimate the optimal early target Cmin for FN in patients with hematological malignancies
Methods
This single-center, prospective study enrolled hematological malignancy patients who were treated with teicoplanin either as an empirical antibiotic for FN or as definitive treatment for Gram-positive bacteria. Blood samples were collected on day three (48 hours) post-loading doses, day five (96 hours), and day eight (when applicable) and determined by ultra high pressure liquid chromatography-triple quadruple mass spectrometry. A two-tailed α value of 0.05 was considered as statistical significance.
Results
A total of 117 samples from 47 FN patients were consecutively analyzed. The mean Cmin at 48 hours, 96 hours, and on day eight were 23.4 mg/L, 21.4 mg/L, and 27.8 mg/L, respectively. The patients achieving Cmin ≥ 20 mg/L at 48 hours had a higher likelihood of treatment success. The areas under the receiver operating characteristic curves were 0.71 for clinical efficacy and the cut-off value of Cmin at 48 hours was 18.85 mg/L (95% confidence interval; 0.55–0.87; P = 0.018).
Conclusions
The Cmin of teicoplanin after completion of loading doses could predict the treatment response, with a target concentration ≥ 18.85 mg/L.
Comprehensive analysis reveals KLB as a prognostic biomarker in colorectal cancer based on systematic pancancer analysis
Authors: Bi Xiaofei , Zhang Wenjin , Shen Meimei Shen , Wu Guicheng , Fang Chengmei , Gao Jian
Published: March 2024

Background
The incidence of colorectal cancer, a prevalent digestive system tumor, is increasing. Earlier research has demonstrated the significant impact of β-Klotho(KLB) on the development of metabolic disorders. Nonetheless, the function of KLB in tumors, particularly in colorectal cancer(CRC), remains underresearched.
Methods
By employing databases such as the TCGA, GTEx, Human Protein Atlas, UALCAN, and cBioPortal, we gathered information regarding KLB expression levels, its predictive and diagnostic importance, epigenetic characteristics, various immune and molecular subtypes, immune checkpoints, and the extent of immune infiltration. The “clusterProfiler” R package was utilized for enrichment analysis to investigate the possible role of KLB. To determine the optimal prognostic model, multivariate Cox regression and Akaike's information criterion were applied. Additionally, CCK-8 assays, colony formation assays, and cell scratch assays were employed to assess the impact of KLB on the biological activities of CRC cells.
Results
Pancancer studies revealed a decrease in KLB in CRC and various other cancers, but an increase in KLB in liver hepatocellular carcinoma and prostate adenocarcinoma. Consequently, reduced KLB expression correlated with a lower TNM stage and unfavorable clinical outcomes in CRC patients. The nomogram, developed considering KLB, CEA level, and TNM stage, demonstrated enhanced predictive accuracy in CRC. Analysis of immune cell infiltration revealed a correlation between reduced KLB expression and decreased infiltration of immune cells. Experiments involving CCK-8, colony formation, and cell scratch assays revealed that the increased in vitro expression of KLB suppressed the growth, movement, and infiltration of CRC cells.
Conclusion
The expression levels of KLB were lower in CRC tissues than in normal tissues. A notable correlation was found between its reduced expression and a grim outlook. Furthermore, KLB is crucial for the immune response of tumors and the biological actions of CRC cells. Consequently, KLB could be a potential biomarker for prognosis and a target for therapy in CRC patients.
Integrated bioinformatics combined with machine learning to analyze shared biomarkers and pathways in psoriasis and cervical squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Liu Luyu , Yin Pan , Ruida Yang , Zhang Guanfei , Wu Cong , Zheng Yan , Wu Shaobo , Liu Meng
Published: March 2024

Background:
Psoriasis extends beyond its dermatological inflammatory manifestations, encompassing systemic inflammation. Existing studies have indicated a potential risk of cervical cancer among patients with psoriasis, suggesting a potential mechanism of co-morbidity. This study aims to explore the key genes, pathways, and immune cells that may link psoriasis and cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CESC).
Methods:
The cervical squamous cell carcinoma dataset (GSE63514) was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). Two psoriasis-related datasets (GSE13355 and GSE14905) were merged into one comprehensive dataset after removing batch effects. Differentially expressed genes were identified using Limma and co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and machine learning random forest algorithm (RF) was used to screen the hub genes. We analyzed relevant gene enrichment pathways using GO and KEGG, and immune cell infiltration in psoriasis and squamous cervical cancer samples using CIBERSORT. The miRNA-mRNA and TFs-mRNA regulatory networks were then constructed using Cytoscape, and the biomarkers for psoriasis and CESC were determined. Potential drug targets were obtained from the cMAP database, and biomarker expression levels in hela and psoriatic cell models were quantified by RT-qPCR.
Results:
In this study, we identified 27 key genes associated with psoriasis and cervical squamous cell carcinoma. NCAPH, UHRF1, CDCA2, CENPN and MELK were identified as hub genes using the Random Forest machine learning algorithm. Chromosome mitotic region segregation, nucleotide binding and DNA methylation are the major enrichment pathways for common DEGs in the mitotic cell cycle. Then we analyzed immune cell infiltration in psoriasis and cervical squamous cell carcinoma samples using CIBERSORT. Meanwhile, we used the cMAP database to identify ten small molecule compounds that interact with the central gene as drug candidates for treatment. By analyzing miRNA-mRNA and TFs-mRNA regulatory networks, we identified three miRNAs and nine transcription factors closely associated with five key genes and validated their expression in external validation datasets and clinical samples. Finally, we examined the diagnostic effects with ROC curves, and performed experimental validation in hela and psoriatic cell models.
Conclusions:
We identified five biomarkers, NCAPH, UHRF1, CDCA2, CENPN, and MELK, which may play important roles in the common pathogenesis of psoriasis and cervical squamous cell carcinoma, furthermore predict potential therapeutic agents. These findings open up new perspectives for the diagnosis and treatment of psoriasis and squamous cell carcinoma of the cervix.
Reinforcement Learning for Zero-Day Vulnerability Detection in IoT Devices: A Proactive Approach
Authors: Reddy Bhargavi Peddi , Shaik Shakeel Ahamad , Gaddam Venu Gopal , S Ramakrishna K V S , M Jogendra Kumar
Published: March 2024

Zero - Day vulnerabilities pose a significant threat to the security of IoT devices, as they remain undetected and unpatched by vendors. In this research paper, we propose a novel approach to Zero-Day Vulnerability Detection in IoT devices using reinforcement learning for conjecture generation. Our model leverages real-time telemetry data from IoT devices and metadata about the network to generate potential conjectures about Zero-Day vulnerabilities. The agent is trained with a deep reinforcement learning architecture and benefits from a human-in-the-loop to incorporate domain expertise. We evaluate the performance of the model on a real-world IoT testbed and compare it with existing approaches, demonstrating its proactive and efficient nature in detecting Zero-Day vulnerabilities.
Keywords: Zero-Day Vulnerabilities, IoT Devices, Reinforcement Learning, Conjecture Generation Vulnerability Detection
Integrated proteomics and metabolomics analysis reveals new insight into the synergistic antitumor effect of valproic acid plus simvastatin in prostate cancer xenograft model associated with downmodulation of YAP/TAZ signaling
Authors: Iannelli Federica , Lombardi Rita , Costantini Susan , Roca Maria Serena , Addi Laura , Bruzzese Francesca , Gennaro Elena Di , Budillon Alfredo , Pucci Biagio
Published: March 2024

Background: Despite advancements in therapeutic approaches, including taxane-based chemotherapy and androgen receptor targeting agents, metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) remains an incurable tumour, underlying the need of novel strategies that can target the complexities of this disease and bypass the development of drug-resistance mechanisms. We previously demonstrated the synergistic antitumor interaction of the antiepileptic with histone deacetylase inhibitory activity valproic acid (VPA), and the lipid-lowering drug simvastatin (SIM). This combination sensitizes mCRPC cells to docetaxel treatment, both in vitro and in vivo models, by targeting cancer stem cells compartment via mevalonate pathway/YAP axis modulation.
Methods Here, by a combined proteomic and metabolomic/lipidomic approach we characterized tumor samples derived from 22Rv1 mCRPC cells xenografted mice, treated or not with VPA/SIM combination, coupled with an in deep bioinformatics analysis.
Results We confirmed a specific impact of VPA/SIM on Hippo-YAP signaling pathway, functionally related with modulation of cancer-related extracellular matrix biology and metabolic reprogramming, providing further insights into the molecular mechanism of the VPA/SIM antitumor effect.
Conclusions In the current study, we present an in-depth exploration of the potential to repurpose in mCRPC treatment two generic and safe drugs, valproic acid (VPA) and simvastatin (SIM), that already showcased anti-tumor efficacy in combination, primarily affecting cancer stem cell compartment via MVP/YAP axis modulation. Bioinformatics analysis of LC-MS/MS proteomics and of 1H-NMR metabolomics/lipidomics results, confirmed a specific impact of VPA/SIM on Hippo-YAP
Reduction in mitochondrial ATP synthesis depolarizes neurons from the subpostremal nucleus of the solitary tract of rats
Authors: Zarpellon Patrik Saul , Murat Cahuê , Leão Ricardo Mauricio
Published: March 2024

Neurons of the subpostremal nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS) respond to changes in extracellular glucose with alterations in membrane potential with both depolarization and hyperpolarization. From 5 mM glucose, a rapid shift to 0.5 mM glucose produces a membrane depolarization by an unknown mechanism in most neurons from juvenile rats. However, the mechanism involved in this response needs to be known. Here, we investigated if the low glucose-induced depolarization could be mimicked by reducing ATP synthesis and possible mediators of this effect. We showed that applying the mitochondrial uncoupler CCCP (1 µM) reproduced the effects of low glucose depolarizing the membrane, generating an inward current, and decreasing membrane resistance. On the other hand, activation of AMPK did not alter these parameters. To test if low glucose and CCCP could depolarize the membrane by affecting the ionic gradient, we inhibited the electrogenic Na/K pump with 10 µM of ouabain. We observed a similar membrane depolarization but not a decrease in membrane resistance. We conclude that perfusion of neurons of the subpostremal NTS with a low glucose solution depolarizes the membrane by probably reducing intracellular ATP, but not by activating AMPK or decreasing the ionic gradient across the membrane.
Unveiling the Antifungal Mechanisms of CTP, a New Copper(II)- Theophylline/1,10-Phenanthroline Complex, on Drug-Resistant Non-albicans Candida Species
Authors: Frota Heloisa F. , Barbosa Pedro F. , Lorentino Carolline M. A. , Affonso Lorena R. F. , Ramos Lívia S. , Oliveira Simone S.C. , Souza Lucieri O.P. , Abosede Olufunso O. , Ogunlaja Adeniyi S. , Branquinha Marta H. , Santos André L. S.
Published: March 2024

Candida species are the commonest opportunistic human fungal pathogens worldwide, with Candida albicans serving as the primary representative. However, non-albicans Candida species (NACs) have been on the rise in terms of incidence, and they are associated with outbreaks and instances of antifungal resistance. The search for new strategies to combat antifungal-resistant Candida strains is of paramount importance. Recently, our group reported the anti-Candida activity of a coordination compound containing copper(II) complexed with theophylline (theo) and 1,10-phenanthroline (phen), known as “CTP” – Cu(theo)2phen(H2O).5H2O. In the present work, we investigated the mechanisms of action of CTP against six medically relevant, antifungal-resistant NACs, including C. auris, C. glabrata, C. haemulonii, C. krusei, C. parapsilosis and C. tropicalis. CTP effectively inhibited the activity of mitochondrial dehydrogenases, leading to an increase in intracellular reactive oxygen species production. CTP treatment resulted in significant damage to the plasma membrane, as evidenced by the passive incorporation of propidium iodide, and DNA fragmentation as evidenced by the TUNEL assay. Scanning electron microscopy images confirmed that the fungal surface underwent substantial alterations due to CTP treatment, including the formation of invaginations that led to cavitations and lysis. These surface modifications significantly impacted the ability of Candida cells to adhere to the polystyrene surface and form a robust biofilm structure. Moreover, CTP was effective in disassembling mature biofilms formed by these NACs. CTP represents a promising avenue for the development of novel antifungals with innovative mechanisms of action against clinically relevant NACs that are resistant to antifungals commonly used in clinical settings.
Effect of Mn on selective catalytic reduction of NOx by NH3 from Rare earth tailings and mechanistic analysis
Authors: Lu Linbo , Gao Hongmin , Wu Wenfei , Hou Limin
Published: March 2024

In order to obtain good performance of low temperature denitration catalyst, we modified manganese on rare earth tailings by impregnation method, and investigated the effect of manganese modification on the denitrification performance of rare earth tailings by X-ray diffraction, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller, Temperature program reduction, Temperature-programmed desorption of ammoniaand X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy characterisation methods. The results showed: The optimum amount of manganese-modified rare earth tailings was 5 mass fraction, and the denitrification efficiency reached up to 78 percent at 200 degrees centigrade. The addition of manganese resulted in the appearance of uniformly dispersed MnOx on the catalyst surface, and the new component interacted with iron and cerium in the minerals to promote the redox cycle and greatly enhance the redox capacity of the catalyst. It also increased the content of Fe3+ and adsorbed oxygen on the surface, which led to the increase of Brønsted acid sites and the generation of more Mn3+ and Mn4+, which promoted the selective catalytic reduction reaction, but the strong oxidizing ability of manganese resulted in the low selectivity of N2. From the in situ IR results, NO in the Mn-modified catalyst mainly participates in the reaction as monodentate nitrate to promote the SCR reaction, following the L-H mechanism.
Evaluation of extracellular alkaline proteases from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, B. siamensis, B. subtilis, and B. velezensis
Authors: Prabmark Kanoknart , Saeng-kla Kanphorn , Boonyapakron Katewadee , Aiewviriyasakul Katesuda , Sritus Wipawee , Bunterngsook Benjarat , Poncheewin Wasin , Kanokratana Pattanop , Champreda Verawat , Laothanachareon Thanaporn
Published: March 2024

Alkaline proteases have several applications in various industries. In this study, alkaline proteases from Bacillus amyloliquefaciens TBRC 2902, B. siamensis TBRC 1180, B. subtilis TBRC 6663, and B. velezensis TBRC 7773 were characterized. The production of extracellular protease activity was optimal using tapioca starch as the carbon source for TBRC 2902 and TBRC 1180, and soluble starch for TBRC 7773, whereas both carbon sources were optimal for TBRC 6663. Yeast extract was the optimal organic nitrogen source for all the strains. Skim milk was an equally effective alternative organic nitrogen source for TBRC 2902, TBRC 1180, and TBRC 7773, whereas soytone was as effective as yeast extract for TBRC 6663. To enhance the alkaline protease activity by 10-20%, inorganic nitrogen sources are essential for certain strains including TBRC 2902 and TBRC 1180, which require diammonium hydrogen phosphate and potassium nitrate, respectively. The B. siamensis TBRC 1180 alkaline protease exhibited optimal pH and temperature values of 9.0 and 60°C, respectively, whereas the enzymes from the other strains showed lower optimal pH and temperature values of 8.0 and 50°C, respectively. All enzymes exhibited tolerance to non-ionic surfactants, with more than 40% relative activity remaining when exposed to Triton X-100, Tween-20, and Tween-80 for 24 hours, indicating the potential application of these enzymes as detergent additives.
Two-Dimensional Confined Topological Modes in All Dielectric Guided Mode Resonance Structure Through Surface Features
Authors: Ramachandra Swathy , Menezes Maclean Paul , Tumuluru Vamsi Krishna , Kulkarni Raghavendra G , Sinha Rajat K , Bhowmick Kaustav
Published: March 2024

Guided mode resonance (GMR) structures offer simplicity and have spectral resonance capabilities such as narrowband resonance, high Q-factor, whereas topological surface features offer spatial light control. In this paper, we explore the integration of the GMR structures with topological photonics to achieve extreme two-dimensional (2D) spatial confinement of light. With this integration, we propose a novel design that leverages discontinuous surface features (crosscut) to excite Jackiw - Rebbi (JR) solution, which describes relationship between Dirac equation and topological insulators. Finite element modelling, considering various structural and material parameters, demonstrate a 40% improvement in light confinement, with a calculated full width half maximum (FWHM) of approximately ~ 18 ± 3nm, compared to benchmark GMR structures with topological photonics. This significant enhancement showcases the potential of our approach for applications demanding ultra- precise spatial resolution. Furthermore, tolerance studies reveal good robustness to variations in the dimensions of the crosscut and angle of polarization, ensuring practical feasibility. The proposed structure exhibited good tolerance of up to ~ ± 10%. This work paves the way for highly confined 2D light manipulation within all- dielectric platforms, opening exciting avenues for nanophotonic devices and applications requiring light localization.
Genome-wide analysis of Rice OsDHSRP gene family and their Expression profiles under different Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Kanathala Anjana Priyadarshani , Bollempally Prashanth , Kyasarapu Prathik , Singam Prashant , Kethavath Srinivas Naik
Published: March 2024

Rice serves as a principal food class globally and the crop have been gradually impeded by environmental constraints such as drought, floods, salinity, heat, and cold. Plants adapt their physiological operations in response to external stimuli via signal transduction, thereby modulates gene expression and triggers a range of cellular responses. To feed the current population expansion, it is necessary to develop crops which are able to withstand climate change is highly desirable. OsDHSRP1 is an E3-ubiquitin ligase whose expression is highly stimulated by salinity, heat, and drought conditions, and it acts as a negative modulator by boosting ROS production. The genome-wide comprehensive and expression analysis of OsDHSRP1 in rice have still not been reported. In the current research, we are providing genome wide prediction, structural, evolutionary characterization, and expression analysis of OsDHSRP gene family of Oryza under diverse abiotic stresses. A total of 15 OsDHSRP genes were discovered in Oryza genome, which contains C3HC4 zinc finger conserved domain. The elucidation of Intron/Exon and motif patterns provide structural aspects of these genes. Cis-regulatory analysis and Transcription factor prediction studies revealed their roles and interaction with genes involved in multiple abiotic variables. Expression evaluation of OsDHSRP genes by q-RT PCR revealed that OsDHSRP1 exhibited strong expression trends in leaflets during cold stress followed by drought and salt stress conditions, suggests the role of OsDHSRP1 under diverse abiotic stress circumstances in Oryza. This study provides further insights into regulation of expression of OsDHSRP genes for developing climate resilient crops.
Early Initiation of Ceftaroline-Based Combination Therapy for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia
Authors: Hicks Addison S. , Dolan Mackenzie A. , Shah Megan D. , Elwood Sarah E. , Platts-Mills James A. , Madden Gregory R. , Elliott Zachary S. , Eby Joshua C.
Published: March 2024

Purpose:
Monotherapy with vancomycin or daptomycin remains guideline-based care for methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (MRSA-B) despite concerns regarding efficacy. Limited data support potential benefit of combination therapy with ceftaroline as initial therapy. We present an assessment of outcomes of patients initiated on early combination therapy for MRSA-B.
Methods:
This was a single-center, retrospective study of adult patients admitted with MRSA-B between July 1, 2017 and April 31, 2023. During this period, there was a change in institutional practice from routine administration of monotherapy to initial combination therapy for most patients with MRSA-B. Combination therapy included vancomycin or daptomycin plus ceftaroline within 72 hours of index blood culture and monotherapy was vancomycin or daptomycin alone. The primary outcome was a composite of persistent bacteremia, 30-day all-cause mortality, and 30-day bacteremia recurrence. Time to microbiological cure and safety outcomes were assessed. All outcomes were assessed using propensity score-weighted logistic regression.
Results:
Of 213 patients included, 118 received monotherapy (115 vancomycin, 3 daptomycin) and 95 received combination therapy with ceftaroline (76 vancomycin, 19 daptomycin). The mean time from MRSA-positive molecular diagnostic blood culture result to combination therapy was 12.1 hours. There was no difference between groups for the primary composite outcome (OR 1.58, 95% CI 0.60, 4.18). Time to microbiological cure was longer with combination therapy (mean difference 1.50 days, 95% CI 0.60, 2.41). Adverse event rates were similar in both groups.
Conclusions:
Early initiation of ceftaroline-based combination therapy did not improve outcomes for patients with MRSA-B in comparison to monotherapy therapy.
A complicated case of diaphragmatic hernia combined with pyothorax
Authors: liu gaohua , yao yi , Wang Juan
Published: March 2024

We report a case of an elderly female who was admitted to the hospital with left-sided chest pain and an out-of-hospital diagnosis of left-sided pleural effusion. After admission, she was diagnosed with left-sided pyothorax after computed tomography (CT) examination and puncture and tube placement, and diaphragmatic hernia with pyothorax was considered after surgical treatment. This kind of case is rarely reported at present, and the clinical diagnostic ability was further improved through the reflection of this case.
Automated Gait Detection in Older Adults during Daily-Living using Self-Supervised Learning of Wrist- Worn Accelerometer Data: Development and Validation of ElderNet
Authors: Brand Yonatan E. , Kluge Felix , Palmerini Luca , Paraschiv-Ionescu Anisoara , Becker Clemens , Cereatti Andrea , Maetzler Walter , Sharrack Basil , Vereijken Beatrix , Yarnall Alison J. , Rochester Lynn , Din Silvia Del , Muller Arne , Buchman Aron S. , Hausdorff Jeffrey M. , Perlman Or
Published: March 2024

Progressive gait impairment is common in aging adults. Remote phenotyping of gait during daily living has the potential to quantify gait alterations and evaluate the effects of interventions that may prevent disability in the aging population. Here, we developed ElderNet, a self-supervised learning model for gait detection from wrist-worn accelerometer data. Validation involved two diverse cohorts, including over 1,000 participants without gait labels, as well as 83 participants with labeled data: older adults with Parkinson's disease, proximal femoral fracture, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, congestive heart failure, and healthy adults. ElderNet presented high accuracy (96.43 ± 2.27), specificity (98.87 ± 2.15), recall (82.32 ± 11.37), precision (86.69 ± 17.61), and F1 score (82.92 ± 13.39). The suggested method yielded superior performance compared to two state-of-the-art gait detection algorithms, with improved accuracy and F1 score (p < 0.05). In an initial evaluation of construct validity, ElderNet identified differences in estimated daily walking durations across cohorts with different clinical characteristics, such as mobility disability (p < 0.001) and parkinsonism (p < 0.001). The proposed self-supervised gait detection method has the potential to serve as a valuable tool for remote phenotyping of gait function during daily living in aging adults.
ANALYSIS OF NULL RESULTS OF HAMMAR EXPERIMENT BY CLASSICAL MECHANICS WITHOUT SPECIAL THEORY OF RELATIVITY
Authors: Dharam Vir Singh
Published: March 2024

In optics interferometers are used for precision measurements. In interferometry two waves of light are superimposed to generate interference fringes. The interference pattern is observed and analyzed to measure physical process. Gustaf Wilhelm Hammar conducted an experiment in the year 1935 to test aether drag hypothesis. The null results of this experiment were interpreted in consistent with special theory of relativity. Hammar used common path interferometer and observed the changes in interference fringes due to motion of earth. The present work describes that when there is no aether and no medium drags the light in its direction of motion than what will be the behaviour of light.The analysis has been made according to classical mechanics keeping in view Huygen’s principle by tracking the pathways of both the rays of light.It is established that speed of light is independent of velocity of any object,apparatus or any observer and there is no effect of motion of earth.The null results of Hoek’s experiment and Hammar experiment are in consistent with classical mechanics.
HOW CULTURE AFFECTS ABORTION LAWS AND ITS IMPACTS
Authors: Areej Parvez
Published: March 2024

The Supreme Court's role in shaping reproductive rights for women in the United States has been significant since the landmark ruling in Roe v. Wade in 1973. However, the ongoing debate over access to reproductive healthcare and abortion rights persisted, leading to the recent overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022. This research explores the impact of legislative laws on abortion in the United States, focusing on the Dobbs v. Jackson case and its aftermath. This research discusses how trigger bans and gestational bans have resulted in a rapid decline in access to abortion services, particularly for marginalized communities. It also highlights the impact of these laws on young pregnant girls, who already face limited abortion options due to existing restrictions. This research further examines the role of culture in shaping views on abortion, including religious beliefs, stigma, and geographical location. It concludes by discussing the shift from pro-life to pro-choice views among Americans and the need for increased media coverage and advocacy campaigns to challenge stigma and humanize the abortion experience.
TERRITORIALITY IN INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY LAW: ANALYSING WHETHER THE PRINCIPLE OF TERRITORIALITY SHOULD BE APPLICABLE ONLINE
Authors: Srisamvruta Sridhar
Published: March 2024

This paper will argue that, with regards to intellectual property law, the principle of territoriality should not be applicable online. The central concept of territoriality has first been explained, with its evolution briefly outlined. Several pieces of literature have then been assessed, accounting for contrasting viewpoints on the topic. Subsequently, key arguments showcase the infeasibility of applying territoriality online, and the pessimistic implications of doing so are elaborated. Potential opposing viewpoints have been refuted, with their weaknesses evidently identified. Following a thorough investigation and analysis, this paper concludes that territoriality should not be applicable online.
PSYCHO-SOCIAL INTERVENTIONS FOR EFFECTIVE RELAPSE PREVENTION – A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS
Authors: G. P. Kaviya Priya  , Rachel Roshan  , Dr. S. Joyce Jeyarani
Published: March 2024

Relapse prevention is one of the important phase of alcohol or narcotic dependent once he got recovered from the dependence on it such substances. Effective strategies can help a recovered substance dependent from relapse. By using Explanatory research design, qualitative analysis was done using Focused Group Discussion and Case studies done at De-addiction centre in Madurai. The researcher used Focused group script and case study questions for data collection. The structure interview schedule was used by the researcher. The collected data were presented in a Conative model of Mary Goodyear with the factors suggested by Kruger and Cassey (2000) for focused Group Discussion and Brian Budgell method of case presentation was done. The Psycho social intervention like removing psychological distress, using reframing and logical debating techniques of REBT, acceptance behavior, Self care, Home visits, monthly meetings for family members, NA or AA monthly meetings, Career goal setting, follow-up were found to be effective strategies in Relapse prevention. The researcher suggests adopting any of the psycho-social intervention methods that were found effective in relapse prevention found in the study.