bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wetlands in Majuli: Exploring Culture-Environment Nexus
Authors: Das Ranjan
Published: June 2024

Wetlands play a crucial role not only in providing ecological services but also in enriching the cultural and spiritual life of human society. Despite this, their cultural values have often been overlooked. The formal recognition of cultural values began with the Ramsar Convention in the 1970s, which acknowledged wetlands as resources of great economic, cultural, scientific, and recreational value. The wetlands of Majuli are of profound cultural and socio-cultural importance, particularly in terms of religious and spiritual significance, as well as recreational value. This study examines the cultural services provided by the wetland ecosystem of Majuli, focusing on its significance in the local human-environment nexus. Utilizing a qualitative approach with quantitative aspects, data was collected from primary sources through observation, interviews, and group discussions, along with secondary sources such as books, journals, and web portals.
Formulation of a Natural Detergent with a Biosurfactant Produced by Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214 Cultivated in a Low-Cost Medium for Application in the Remediation of Coastal Environmental Compartments
Authors: Silva Ivison Amaro , Almeida Fabíola Carolina Gomes , Alves Romulo N , Cunha Maristela C.C. , Oliveira Jéssica Cristina M , Fernandes Mucio Luiz B , Sarubbo Leonie Asfora
Published: June 2024

Oil spills upset the delicate balance of the environment. Remediation methods are employed to recover areas affected by contaminants. Green surfactants have considerable potential with regards to enhancing environmental remediation methods. The aim of the present study was to formulate a green natural detergent containing the biosurfactant produced by Starmerella bombicola ATCC 22214 grown in mineral medium containing 1.2% canola oil, 10% sucrose, and 0.5% corn steep liquor. The biosurfactant reduced surface tension to 31.84 mN/m and was produced at a yield of 22 g/L. Twelve formulations were initially proposed using cottonseed oil as the natural solvent and three different stabilisers (vegetable wax, hydroxyethyl cellulose, and sodium alginate). The natural detergent was assessed with regards to emulsifying capacity and stability over a 10-day period. Ecotoxicity of the formulated detergent was investigated using the marine recruitment test on metal plates covered with paint into which the biosurfactant was incorporated as well as tests with the microcrustacean Artemia salina and vegetable seeds. Dispersing capacity and the potential for removing oil from rock surfaces were also investigated. The formulation designated H, which was composed of 1% biosurfactant, 40% cottonseed oil and 2% hydroxyethyl cellulose, achieved the best results. The formulation exhibited both stability and emulsifying capacity (100% of petroleum). The ecotoxicity tests revealed no significant toxicity, demonstrating the safety of the natural detergent. The detergent achieved satisfactory oil dispersion and solubilised 98% of oil impregnated on rock. The results indicate the potential application of the natural detergent formulated in this study for the efficient remediation of environmental compartments contaminated with oil and petroleum derivatives.
Adapting to Disruptions: A Qualitative Study on Supply Chain Agility During Crises
Authors: Reynolds Samantha
Published: June 2024

This qualitative research study delves into the intricate dynamics of how organizations adapt to supply chain disruptions during crises, offering profound insights into the strategies, practices, and challenges encountered in enhancing supply chain agility. Through in-depth interviews with supply chain managers across diverse industries, key themes such as proactive risk management, technological integration, collaboration with supply chain partners, and adaptive leadership have emerged as crucial determinants of agility and resilience. Additionally, the study highlights the significance of organizational culture, effective communication, and external factors such as regulatory requirements and market dynamics in shaping supply chain agility. By embracing a holistic approach that integrates these multifaceted factors, organizations can bolster their capacity to anticipate, detect, and respond to disruptions, thereby maintaining or enhancing overall performance even in the face of uncertainty and complexity. The insights gleaned from this research are poised to inform theory development, guide managerial practice, and influence policy-making in the realm of supply chain management, equipping organizations with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate future disruptions successfully.
Designing Dual-State and Aggregation-Induced Emissive Luminogens from Lignocellulosic Biosourced Molecules
Authors: Bonnot Maelys , Ibrahim Nagahm , Allain Magali , Frère Pierre
Published: June 2024

Utilizing lignocellulosic biosourced platforms, we synthesized novel cyanostilbene (CS) deriva-tives featuring the 3,4-dimethoxyphenyl moiety. These derivatives were investigated for their emission properties in both solution and solid states. The two simple CS derivatives exhibit very weak luminescence in solution but significant luminescence in the solid state, indicating distinct Aggregation-Induced Emission (AIE) characteristic. Furthermore, combining these two CS units, without conjugation and with quasi perpendicular orientation, results in Dual-State Emission (DSE) fluorophore showing luminescence both in solution and solid states. X-ray crys-tallography studies on the solid-state compounds reveal a structure-emission relationship, demonstrating that the colour emission correlates with the conformations adopted by the mol-ecules in the solid state, which influence the type of stacking.
The Impact of Vp-porin, an Outer Membrane Protein, on the Biological Characteristics and Virulence of Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Che Jinyuan , Fang Qitong , Hu Shaojie , Liu Binghong , Wang Lei , Fang Xiu , Li Lekang , Luo Tuyan , Bao Baolong
Published: June 2024

Porins are crucial proteins located in the outer membrane that directly influence antimicrobial resistance mechanisms and virulence in bacteria. In this study, a porin gene (Vp-porin) was cloned in V. parahaemolyticus, and the function of Vp-porin on biological characteristics and virulence was investigated. The results of sequence analysis showed that Vp-porin is highly conserved in Vibrio spp. and the predicted 3D structure showed it could form a transmembrane channel with 20 β barrel. Membrane permeabilization provides evidence that membrane integrity of ∆Vp-porin was damaged and the sensitivity to tetracycline, polymyxin B, rifampicin and cephalothin of ∆Vp-porin obvious increased. In addition, loss of Vp-porin damaged motility due to down-regulated flagellar synthesis. Besides, ∆Vp-porin exhibited attenuated cytotoxicity to Tetra-hymena. The relative survival rate of Tetrahymena infection with ∆Vp-porin was 86%, which is much high than that with WT (49%). Take together, Vp-porin in V. parahaemolyticus plays various roles in biological characteristics in membrane integrity, antimicrobial resistance and motility, and contributes to virulence.
Herbal Medicine for Hypertension: A Review of Potential Therapeutics
Authors: Halma Matthew , Saleeby Yusuf
Published: June 2024

Hypertension is a global public health challenge, with a high prevalence across various regions and significant implications for cardiovascular risk. This article reviews the effectiveness of herbal medicine as a potential therapeutic approach for hypertension, offering an alternative or complementary solution to conventional pharmacological treatments. It highlights several natural agents that have demonstrated efficacy in lowering systolic blood pressure (SBP) in clinical and meta-analytical studies. The methodology involved a systematic review of articles that discuss herbal therapeutics for hypertension, focusing on their efficacy compared to placebo and standard treatments. The findings suggest that certain nutraceuticals, such as garlic, hawthorn, and CoQ10, can significantly reduce SBP, presenting a viable option for managing hypertension. This review underscores the need for further research to validate these findings and optimize herbal treatment strategies, potentially expanding the use of these natural products in clinical practice. The article aims to increase awareness among medical professionals and patients about the benefits and applications of herbal medicines in treating hypertension.
Are We Ready to Face Conversion to Liver Transplantation of Advanced Hepatocellular Carcinoma after Treatment with Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors?
Authors: Marzi Luca , Mega Andrea , Turri Chiara , Gitto Stefano , Ferro Federica , Spizzo Gilbert
Published: June 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary malignant tumor of the liver and the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. Liver transplantation (LT) is the best therapy for most patients with non-metastatic HCC. In recent years, the management of patients with HCC has changed considerably, thanks to the improvement of molecular biology knowledge and the introduction of immunotherapy.
To date, systemic therapy is authorized in the Western world only in patients with advanced HCC. However, this therapy could lead not only to stabilize the tumour disease or improve survival but could display excellent response and lead to downstaging of the tumor that finally permits liver transplantation. There are increasing reports of patients that have performed liver transplantation after pretreatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs). However, due to the intrinsic mechanism of ICIs to stimulate the immune response against tumors, they could also cause graft rejection.
This review aims to evaluate the readiness and outcomes of liver transplantation in patients with advanced HCC who have previously undergone treatment with ICIs. It seeks to identify the challenges, risks, and benefits associated with this conversion therapy. The integration of ICIs into the treatment paradigm for advanced HCC necessitates a nuanced approach to liver transplantation. While early evidence supports the feasibility of LT following ICI therapy, there is an urgent need for standardized guidelines and more extensive longitudinal studies to optimize patient selection, timing, and post-transplant management.
Correspondence Analysis for Assessing Departures from Perfect Symmetry Using the Cressie-Read Family of Divergence Statistics
Authors: Beh Eric J , Lombardo Rosaria
Published: June 2024

Recently, there appeared in this journal (Beh and Lombardo \textbf{2022}, {\it Symmetry}, 14, 1103) a paper that showed how to perform a correspondence analysis on a two-way contingency table where Bowker's statistic lies at the numerical heart of this analysis. Thus, we showed how this statistic can be used to visually identify departures from perfect symmetry. Interestingly, Bowker's statistic is a special case of the symmetry-version of the Cressie-Read family of divergence statistics. Therefore, this paper presents a new framework for visually assessing departures from perfect symmetry using a second-order Taylor series approximation of the Cressie-Read family of divergence statistics.
Cardiovascular Aging in HIV Infection: Analysis
of Involved Genes
Authors: Boccuto Fabiola , De Rosa Salvatore , Veltri Pierangelo , Torella Daniele , Guzzi Pietro Hiram
Published: June 2024

Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) has transitioned from a progressive, fatal disease to a chronic, manageable disease thanks to better defining of antiretroviral therapy, hence contributing to increased life expectancy. In parallel, a growing number of subjects without overt clinical signs of disease but living with chronic HIV infection (people living with HIV, PLWH) are experiencing early cardiovascular disease worldwide. However, a progressive increase in the prevalence of multiple comorbid diseases has been reported as these patients age, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). Cardiovascular mortality can be either directly related to the viral infection, a progressive reduction of response to the antiretroviral therapy, chronic inflammation or lifestyle-related. Cardiovascular ageing represents a relevant issue in the management of HIV-infected patients. Although the exact pathophysiological mechanism that leads PLWH to develop cardiovascular disease is not entirely understood, there is substantial evidence that they accumulate age-related conditions earlier than the general population. Furthermore, since the proportion of PLWH growing older than 50 years has progressively increased, this results in a complex interaction between disease-related pathophysiology and the exposition of a growing burden of cardiovascular risk factors. For this reason, we performed a systematic review of the genes most frequently associated with ageing in HIV-infected subjects, followed by a bioinformatic analysis to explore the biological impact of the genes related to ageing.
Unveiling the Burden of Nephrolithiasis in Low- and Lower-Middle Income Countries: A Review on Presentation, Risk Factors, Treatment Practices and Future Navigations
Authors: Almusafer Murtadha , Issa Hussein , Paraskevopoulou Margarita , Symeonidis Evangelos N , Bhatti Kamran Hassan , Moussa Mohamad , Papatsoris Athanasios , Tsampoukas Georgios
Published: June 2024

Background: Nephrolithiasis, or kidney stone disease, presents a significant global health burden, with incidence rates and treatment practices varying widely globally. This study aims to discuss the epidemiology, risk factors, treatment modalities, and challenges for nephrolithiasis in the lower half of the World Bank Rank; low and lower-middle-income countries. Methods: A comprehensive literature review was conducted using PubMed for each country on the list, focusing on studies published from January 2000 onwards and reporting data on prevalence, risk factors, treatment practices, and economic implications. Results: Nephrolithiasis represents a significant burden for healthcare systems, with noteworthy geographical variability in prevalence possibly dependent on socioeconomic status and gender. Risk factors include dietary habits, climate, pollution, and infectious diseases. Treatment practices in some regions still rely on open surgery due to limited access to advanced endourological techniques, while other regions demonstrate high proactivity in research. The burden is exacerbated by inadequate healthcare infrastructure and training. Conclusions: Addressing nephrolithiasis in challenging economic circumstances requires targeted interventions, including improved access to modern treatment methods, enhanced training for healthcare professionals, and better socioeconomic and environmental conditions. Future research should focus on region-specific strategies and the development of sustainable healthcare solutions.
Enhancing Brand Visibility in Startup Enterprises: A Strategic Approach to E-marketing Capabilities
Authors: ALLAHHAM MAHMOUD Izzat , Sharabati Abdel-Aziz Ahmad , Alqurashi4 Daher Raddad
Published: June 2024

This study aims to explore the E-marketing orientations and relationship management constructs in Jordanian startup enterprises to examine their influence on brand visibility and loyalty in the context of the digital market . The sample consists of 161 managers in startup companies, and structural equation modeling is used to study the relationships between the constructs of e-marketing orientation, capabilities, E-relationship management, brand visibility, and loyalty. The results illustrate that the realization of e-marketing orientation is directly achieved by capabilities and visibility, thereby stressing the importance of a formulated digital market approach and that the realization of effective e-relationship management directly expression by e-marketing capabilities, demonstrating the significance of the digital market concept’s approach. The results further demonstrate that e-marketing capabilities and visibility serve as mediators between the realization of e-marketing orientations and loyalty, Two explanations may be drawn, one from the R resource-Based View theory, and another derived from R elationship M arketing T heory Thus, the study has theoretical implications in terms of R esource-Based V iew and R elationship M arketing T heory. The study offers essential managerial insights for practitioners into the entrepreneurship domain concerned with the necessity of e-marketing capabilities and E-RM attitudes at a customer-centered approach and the strategic application of digital channels to enhance visibility in the intense competition context. Therefore, the empirical results have contributions as essential insights for both stakeholders and account for practical, theoretical, and managerial perspectives in the entrepreneurship domain.
Isotopic (Nd, Sr, Pb) Composition of the Permo–Triassic and Late Cretaceous Basaltoids in the Minusa Depression (Southern Siberia, Kop’evo Uplift): Heterogeneity of Mantle Sources of Mafic Magmas
Authors: Vrublevskii V.V. , Chugaev A.V. , Tishin P.A. , Kotel’nikov A.D. , Izokh A.E. , Kazenova F. , Kremer I.O.
Published: June 2024

—We have studied the isotopic composition of Nd, Sr, and Pb in Permo–Triassic subalkaline dolerites and Late Cretaceous basanites of the northern part of the Minusa depression. The wide variations in the primary isotope parameters of dolerites (ɛNd = 6.6–8.5, 87Sr/86Sr = 0.7031–0.7061, 206Pb/204Pb = 18.13–18.72, 207Pb/204Pb = 15.51–15.55, 208Pb/204Pb = 37.88–38.07) and basanites (εNd = 5.3–9, 87Sr/86Sr = 0.7026–0.7054, 206Pb/204Pb = 18.63–19.09, 207Pb/204Pb = 15.54–15.56, 208Pb/204Pb = 38.40–39.01) indicate both heterogeneity of mantle mafic melts and their partial crust contamination. Doleritic magma was presumably generated predominantly from a substance from a moderately depleted mantle source, which is similar in isotopic composition to the PREMA component of sublithospheric plumes. The basanitic magma might have formed through the melting of the material of the subcontinental lithospheric mantle modified as a result of plume activity in the Paleozoic–early Mesozoic. The similar isotopic compositions of Pb in basanites and the derivates of the enriched lithospheric mantle (EM 2 type) are due to the mixing of different substances of the SCLM substratum.
A remote sensing target detection model based on lightweight feature enhancement and feature refinement extraction
Authors: Guo Dongen , Zhou Zhuoke , Guo Fengshuo , Jia Chaoxin , Huang xiaohong , Feng Jiangfan , Shen zhen
Published: June 2024

Remote sensing image (RSI) target detection methods based on traditional multi scale feature fusion (MSFF) have achieved great success. However, the traditional MSFF method significantly increases the computational cost during model training and inference, and the simple fusion operation may lead to the semantic confusion of the feature map, which cannot realize the refined extraction of features by the model. In order to reduce the computational effort associated with the MSFF operation and to enable the features in the feature map to present an accurate, fine-grained distribution, we propose a single-stage detection model(RS-YOLO). Our main additions to RS-YOLO are a computationally smaller and faster QS-E-ELEN (Quick and Small E-ELEN) module and a feature refinement extraction (FRE) module. In the QS-E-ELEN module We utilize QSBlock,jump-join, and convolution operations to fuse features on different scales and reduce the computational effort of the model by exploiting the similarity of the RSI feature map channels. In order for the model to better utilize the enhanced features, FRE makes the feature mapping of the target to be detected in the RSI accurate and refined. By conducting experiments on the popular NWPU-VHR- 10 and SSDD datasets, we derive results that show that RS-YOLO outperforms most mainstream models in terms of the trade-off between accuracy and speed. Specifically, in terms of accuracy, it improves 1.6% and 1.7% compared to the current state-of-the-art models, respectively. At the same time, RS-YOLO reduces the number of parameters and computational effort.
An improved peridynamics topology optimization formulation for compliance minimization
Authors: Vieira Francisco S. , Araújo Aurélio L.
Published: June 2024

This work proposes an improved peridynamics density-based topology optimization framework for compliance minimization. One of the main advantages of using a peridynamics discretization relies in the fact that it provides a consistent regularization of classical continuum mechanics into a nonlocal continuum, thus containing an inherent length scale called the horizon. Furthermore, this reformulation allows for discontinuities and is highly suitable for treating fracture and crack propagation. Partial differential equations are rewritten as integrodifferential equations and its numerical implementation can be straightforwardly done using meshfree collocation, inheriting its advantages. In the optimization formulation, Solid Isotropic Material with Penalization (SIMP) is used as interpolation for the design variables. To improve the peridynamic formulation and to evaluate the objective function in a energetically consistent manner, surface correction is implemented. Moreover, a detailed sensitivity analysis reveals an analytical expression for the objective function derivatives, different from the one used in the literature, providing an important basis for gradient-based topology optimization with peridynamics. The proposed implementation is studied with two examples illustrating different characteristics of this framework. The analytical expression for the sensitivities is validated against a reference solution, providing an improvement over the existent expression in the literature. Also, the effect of using the surface correction is evidenced. An extensive analysis of the horizon size and sensitivity filter radius indicates that the current method is mesh independent, i.e. a sensitivity filter is redundant since peridynamics intrinsically filters length scales with the horizon. Different optimization methods are also tested for uncracked and cracked structures, demonstrating the capabilities and robustness of the proposed framework.
The impact of different treatments on thromboelastography and other conventional parameters in patients with colorectal cancer
Authors: Ren Wenqin , Chen Hao , Huang Yujie , Zuo Jiaqian , Shu Xinyan , Shu Peng
Published: June 2024

Objective
To comprehend the effects of diverse therapeutic interventions on thromboelastography (TEG) and conventional coagulation parameters among individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer, this study aims to explore the clinical relevance of both thromboelastography and conventional coagulation metrics in evaluating coagulation function and predicting the incidence of thrombotic and hemorrhagic events in patients with colorectal cancer.
Methods
A cohort of 122 patients with colorectal cancer retrospectively recruited and divided into 2 groups: those undergoing surgical intervention (operation group) and those not subjected to surgery (non-operation group). According to the different types of treatment they received, the operation group was divided into chemotherapy-only group and a group receiving a combination of targeted therapy and chemotherapy,.Blood samples were collected on admission and subjected to coagulation parameter assessment,including conventional coagulation tests and thromboelastography(TEG) assessment. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to predict the occurrence of complications in patients with colorectal cancer.
Results
Compared with the operation group,the non-operation group showed significant reductions in reaction time(R-time) and kinetics time(K-time),and significant elevation in angle, maximum amplitude (MA),fibrinogen and platelets.Patients receiving targeted therapy and chemotherapy had lower angle and maximum amplitude and higher R-time and K-time,activated partial thromboplastin time and fibrinogen.The area under the curve for TEG in patients without treatment was 0.802.The area under the curve for TEG and conventional coagulation parameters were 0.654 and 0.660 respectively.
Conclusion
Diverse treatments distinctly impact on the coagulation indicators of individuals diagnosed with colorectal cancer.The coagulation parameters observed in patients prior to operation suggest a hypercoagulable state. Nevertheless, following postoperative chemotherapy and targeted therapy, this hypercoagulable state demonstrates a notable improvement, occasionally leading to a propensity for hypocoagulation. The findings of this investigation underscore the unique clinical importance of thromboelastography (TEG) alongside traditional coagulation parameters, demonstrating that these diagnostic tools possess complementary value and cannot be substituted interchangeably.
Evaluating Right and Left Eye Asymmetry in Monochromatic Fundus Images Using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Park Shin Hyeong , Kang Tae Seen , Kim Min Jee , Kim Bum Jun
Published: June 2024

Purpose
Using convolutional neural networks (CNNs), we attempted to discriminate right and left fundus images of the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL), blue autofluorescence (BAF), and infrared reflectance (IR).
Methods
We prepared sets of 36,169 RNFL images, 4,695 BAF images, and 4,420 IR images. We evaluated each image set with three tests. Test 1 compared unmodified right and left fundus images. Test 2 compared right and flipped left images. Test 3 compared only left images that were divided randomly into two subsets.
Results
In Test 1, CNNs showed high accuracy for the RNFL, BAF, and IR sets (accuracy 100%, 99.74%, and 100%, respectively). In Test 2, the RNFL and IR sets showed high accuracy (97.93% and 95.84%, respectively), while the BAF set had relatively low accuracy (66.15%). In Test 3, the CNNs did not classify the images correctly.
Conclusion
We confirmed that CNNs could distinguish monochromatic images of the right and left fundus, even after horizontal flipping. This asymmetry could result in bias in CNN models. Therefore, asymmetry between the right and left fundus should be considered when developing a CNN model.
Spatio-temporal evolution, exposure and health risk assessment of potentially toxic elements in China’s farmland soils
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Rizwan , Bai Longlong , Li Penghan , Huang Chenhao , Zhang Ruyi , Elbeltagi Ahmed , Farooqi Zia Ur Rehman , Deng Jinsong
Published: June 2024

Widespread contamination of Chinese farmland soils by potentially toxic elements (PTEs) may pose emerging threats to food safety and human health. However, comprehensive nationwide investigations of pollution levels, trends and health risks are lacking. In this study, data from major agricultural regions across 10 Chinese provinces from 2007 to 2021 was analyzed to assess the concentrations of 8 key PTEs (arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), nickel (Ni), and zinc (Zn)) and determine spatial patterns, temporal accumulation, and current and future human health risks. The results showed that the average concentrations of Cd, Hg, Pb, Cu, Zn, Ni, Cr and As were 2.69, 2.47, 1.49, 1.14, 1.01 0.93, 0.89, and 0.89 times greater than their corresponding background values in China. Spatio-temporal analysis revealed increasing As pollution over time across provinces, with some areas reaching moderate-high pollution status. The geo-accumulation and pollution indices identified Cd, Hg, and Pb as the most heavily contaminated elements, with ingestion being the major exposure pathway increasing non-cancer and carcinogenic hazards. The study provided a baseline inventory of PTEs accumulation in Chinese farmland soils and evidence of potential health risks to guide priority areas for pollution control and soil remediation nationwide.
The Experience of transition preparation for children and adolescents with mental disorders in China: A Qualitative study
Authors: Miao Yingying , Li Juan , Wang Jihong , Xu Hui
Published: June 2024

Background and objectives:
Adolescence marks a significant transition from pediatric to adult health care, during which children and adolescents with mental disorders may encounter unique needs and challenges. However, there is limited understanding of the experiences, perspectives, and needs of children and adolescents with mental disorders during the transition of healthcare, particularly in non-English-speaking countries.
Methods
To gain a deeper understanding of the transition preparation experience for mental disorders in children and adolescents in the People's Republic of China, we conducted qualitative semi-structured interviews with 15 children and adolescents diagnosed with mental disorders, employing interpretive phenomenological analysis.
Findings:
This study sheds light on the unique obstacles and needs encountered by children and adolescents with mental disorders during the transitional period. Our analysis identified five overarching themes: Discrepancy between transitional awareness and action; Gaps in Transitional Care During the Transformation Process; Multidimensional needs in transitional care; Contradiction between desire for self-Management of illness and limited capacity; Dual attributes of family support.
Conclusions
Our study provides a comprehensive understanding of the transitional experiences of adolescents with psychiatric disorders in China. The current state of transition readiness among this population is concerning, highlighting multifaceted dilemmas and diverse needs. Notably, we offer novel insights into the "dual" nature of family support, emphasizing both its motivating and obstructive aspects. These insights underscore the pivotal importance of developing tailored transition interventions that cater to the individual needs of adolescents. Such tailored approaches are crucial for facilitating smoother transitions to adult healthcare systems, ensuring continuity of care and improved patient outcomes.
Comparative study of treated and non-treated (auto-recovered) clinical endometritis effects on dairy cows’ fertility parameters
Authors: Smadi Mustapha Adnane , Mamache Bakir , Ouennes Houria , Feriel Feriel , Meziane Rahla , Elokki Mohammed El Hadef , Boughris Farid , Benhadid Mostefa , Bensouici Chawki , Messaoudi Mohammed
Published: June 2024

In this study, we evaluated the effect of treated and auto-recovered clinical endometritis on fertility as a uterine disease class. We collected data on breeding, diseases, and cyclicity. Regarding the co-affections, cows with auto-recovered clinical endometritis were affected in groups 1 and 2. Cows with treated clinical endometritis represented groups 3 and 4, and cows without clinical endometritis represented Groups 5 and 6. Once the cyclicity recovered, cows were inseminated. Studied fertility parameters were; 1: conception rate; 2: days to first insemination; 3: success rate in the first insemination; 4: days to conception; and 5: days between first insemination and pregnancy. We performed ANOVA-analysis, Chi-square test, and Machine Learning K-means. A significant difference was noted for days to first insemination (p-value = 0.05), reinforced by a Fisher-LSD post-hoc analysis test that demonstrated significant differences between groups (3 and 5), p-value = 0,006, groups (3 and 1), p-value = 0,019, and groups (3 and 6), p-value = 0,005. However, the conception rate was significantly higher in the groups with non-treated clinical endometritis (p-value = 0.030). Concerning the other parameters, we did not notice significant differences among groups. Our results showed that auto-recovered cows from clinical endometritis had better fertility outcomes.
Triglyceride-glucose index is associated with the risk of impaired fasting glucose: A 5-year retrospective cohort study in Chinese elderly people
Authors: Liu Jie , Yi Feng , Duan Kai , Liu Haibo
Published: June 2024

The relationship between the triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) in elderly individuals remains uncertain. Our study aimed to explore the association between the TyG index and the risk of future IFG in this population. This retrospective cohort study included 17,746 elderly individuals over 60. In this population, Cox regression models proportional to hazards, along with smooth curve fitting and cubic spline functions, were employed to examine the association between the baseline TyG index and the risk of IFG. Subgroup analyses and sensitivity were also performed to ensure the robustness of the study findings. After adjusting for covariates, a positive relationship between the TyG index and the risk of IFG was found (HR = 1.43, 95% CI: 1.27–1.60, p < 0.0001). The likelihood of IFG rose steadily as the TyG index quartiles (from Q1 to Q4) increased, with Q4 demonstrating a 62% elevated risk compared to Q1 (adjusted HR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.37–1.90). Additionally, we found the association between TyG index and risk of IFG was a linear. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses confirmed the stability of the results. Our study observed a linear association between the TyG index and the development of IFG in elderly Chinese individuals. Recognizing this relationship can help clinicians identify high-risk individuals and implement targeted interventions to reduce their risk of progressing to diabetes.
EPRS1-mediated fibroblast activation and mitochondrial dysfunction promote kidney fibrosis
Authors: Lee Eun Young , Son Seung Seob , Jeong Hee Seul , Lee Seong Woo , Lee Eun Soo , Lee Ji-Hye , awooni  , Park Mi Ju , Choi Min Sun , Lee Donghyeong , Choi Sin Young , Kang Jeong Suk , Cho Nam-Jun , Park Samel , Gil Hyo-Wook , Chung Choon Hee , Park Joon Seok , Kim Myung Hee , Park Jihwan
Published: June 2024

Kidney fibrosis is characterized by an aberrant extracellular matrix accumulation. Glutamyl-prolyl-tRNA synthetase 1 (EPRS1) is a crucial enzyme involved in the synthesis of proline-rich proteins. However, its role in kidney fibrosis remains unclear. The present study found that EPRS1 expression levels were increased in the fibrotic kidneys of patients and mice. We also found that fibroblasts and proximal tubular epithelial cells were major sources of EPRS1 based on single-cell analysis and immunostaining of fibrotic kidneys. C57BL/6 EPRS1tm1b heterozygous knockout (Eprs1+/−) attenuated kidney fibrosis and dysfunction by preventing fibroblast activation and proximal tubular injury. In vitro assays demonstrated that EPRS1-induced Smad3 phosphorylation promotes fibroblast activation, proliferation, and resultant collagen production under transforming growth factor-β treated conditions. We also found that EPRS1 could lead to STAT3 phosphorylation to induce mitochondrial dysfunction in injured proximal tubules. Moreover, first-in-class EPRS1 inhibitor DWN12088 effectively protected against kidney fibrosis and dysfunction. Our findings suggest that EPRS1-mediated extracellular matrix induces kidney fibrosis via fibroblast activation and mitochondrial dysfunction.
Possibility of Optimum Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Production Frontier for Risk-Informed Health Governance in Disaster-prone Districts of West Bengal, India
Authors: Mukherjee Moumita , Batta Anuj
Published: June 2024

Efficient Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) system in public healthcare is a crucial point of concern for Low-and Middle-Income Countries in achieving universal health coverage. The significance of the concern is higher when service delivery is facing obstacle to serve while experiencing higher demand for service due to exposure of the population to disaster risks and uncertainties. Research on sustainable M&E solutions to ensure uninterrupted access during and after disaster is important to reduce disparities in health outcome achievements. Given this context, the current research explores the determinants of M&E effectiveness in a flood-prone rural healthcare setting in Malda, South 24 Parganas and Purulia districts in West Bengal, India. It aims to estimate the efficiency to reach a higher level of M&E production frontier so that healthcare services can be ensured during a disaster. The study used deductive approach and therefore, quantitative data are collected using structured questionnaire from different layers of the health and disaster governance in the districts. The stochastic frontier model is used to estimate the combined efficiency and determine the best possible input combinations to increase the efficiency-led effectiveness. The stochastic frontier model shows M&E model in horizontal and vertical convergence mode has a significant positive influence on efficiency. M&E skill building, and adaptation significantly increase operational efficiency, enhance process quality thereby influence the level of M&E effectiveness under departmental convergence. The efficiency increases manifold with the adoption of learnt innovation sustaining integrated M&E with the disaster management department. Moreover, the integration strategy becomes less effective if M&E process quality is compromised by ignoring the capacity building on innovative techniques. Finally, outsourcing the evaluation component of M&E as a part of the implementation process will enhance the efficiency level further. The study has shown how to reach a higher level of M&E frontier given the contextual adversities. Though the study has a few limitations, it shows the potential to increase technical and allocative efficiency through building skills in innovative techniques and applying them in the process implementation. However, further research is required on strategy improvement followed by real-world evidence-based policy advocacy to increase the impact of M&E on access to healthcare services.
Protein-sparing effects of lipids in the diet of golden pompano (Trachinotus ovatus): evaluation of growth, feed utilization, and lipid metabolism
Authors: Li Xinyi , Gao Liuling , Chen Fang , Guan Junfeng , Wang Shuqi , Xie Dizhi , Pan Qing
Published: June 2024

To investigate the influences of dietary protein and lipid levels on the growth, feed utilization, body composition, and lipid metabolism of golden pompano (Trachinotus ovatus), nine test diets containing three protein levels (35%, 40% and 45%) and three lipid levels (8%, 13% and 18%) were designed in the present study. Each diet (named D1-D9) was randomly assigned to feed triplicate groups of golden pompano juvenile (initial weight ~ 70 g) for 50 days. The results showed that the dietary lipid levels positively correlated with weight gain, specific growth rate, and protein efficiency ratio (PER), suggesting that the high lipid diets (18%) can be efficiently utilized in this fish species. The dietary protein levels have no significant influences on the growth and feed utilization except for the PER. Increasing dietary protein levels resulted in a decrease in HSI, VSI, and ISI, while the dietary lipid level did not have a significant impact on morphological indices except for ISI. The dietary protein and lipid levels had no significant influences on the contents of crude lipid, crude ash, and moisture of whole body, while the crude protein contents was significantly affected by the dietary protein levels. Serum biochemical indexes, including cholesterol (CHO), TG, HDL, and LDL, as well as HDL/CHO ratio were significantly affected by the dietary lipid levels, but not by the dietary protein levels. The expression levels of genes and their associated proteins involved in hepatic lipogenesis (Srebp-1c and Fas) as well as lipolysis (Pparα and Cpt-1) were up-regulated with increasing dietary lipid levels. With dietary protein levels increasing, the expression levels of genes and their associated proteins involved in hepatic lipolysis (Pparα and Cpt-1) and lipogenesis (Srebp-1c and Fas) were up-regulated and down-regulated. Considering the present results in terms of growth performance, feed utilization, morphometric parameters, and lipid metabolism, the recommended dietary protein and lipid levels for golden pompano are 40% and 18%, respectively. The findings suggested that this species exhibits a significant protein-sparing effect on lipid utilization.
Single-cell transcriptome profiling of m6A regulator-mediated methylation modification patterns in elderly AML patients
Authors: Wang Zhe , Du Xin , Zhang Peidong , Zhao Meiling , Zhang Tianbo , Liu Jiang , Wang Xiaolan , Chang Doudou , Liu Xiaxia , Bian Sicheng , Zhang Xialin , Zhang Ruijuan
Published: June 2024

Millions of people worldwide die of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) each year. Although N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification has been reported to regulate the pathogenicity of AML, the mechanism by which it induces the dysfunctional differentiation of haemocytes in elderly AML patients remains unclear. In this study, we illustrated the underlying mechanisms of the m6A landscape and specific mechanisms of m6A regulators in haemocytes of elderly patients with AML. Notably, FTO was upregulated in haematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), Myeloids and TCells and inhibited the differentiation of these cells through the WNT pathway. Additionally, upregulation of YTHDF2 expression in Erythrocytes induced the negative regulation of differentiation through oxidative phosphorylation, leading to leukocyte activation. Moreover, IGF2BP2 was markedly upregulated in Myeloids, contributing to a dysfunctional chromosomal region and dysregulated oxidative phosphorylation. m6A regulators induced aberrant cell-cell communication in haemocytes and mediated ligand-receptor interactions across diverse cell types by activating the HMGB1-mediated pathway, which promotes AML progression. Furthermore, a THP-1 cell model was used to verify the m6A regulator profile; in vitro infection of THP-1 cells with the short hairpin RNA (sh)-FTO blocked cell proliferation and migration while inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Overall, these results indicated that the upregulation of m6A regulators in HSCs, Erythrocytes, Myeloids, and TCells may induce malignant differentiation in patients with AML. Our research offers new perspectives on the pathogenesis and therapeutic targets of elderly AML.
Global hotspots of butterfly diversity in a warming world
Authors: Pinkert Stefan , Farwig Nina , Kawahara Akito , Jetz Walter
Published: June 2024

Insects and their many ecosystem functions are in decline and threatened by climate change1,2, yet lack of globally comprehensive information limits the understanding and management of this crisis3. Here we use butterflies as a global model insect system4–7 and uncover a strong coincidence of their diversity and threat. Integrating comprehensive phylogenetic and geographic range data for 12,119 species, we find that global centers of butterfly richness, rarity, and phylogenetic diversity are unusually concentrated in tropical and sub-tropical mountain systems. Mountains8 hold 3.5 times more butterfly hotspots (top 5%) than lowlands and two thirds of the species are primarily mountain-dwelling. Only a small portion (14%-54%) of these diversity centers overlap with those of ants, terrestrial vertebrates and vascular plants, and this spatial coincidence rapidly decreases above 2,000 m elevation where butterflies are uniquely concentrated. The geographically restricted temperature conditions of these mountain locations now put butterflies at extreme risk from global warming. We project that 64% of butterflies’ temperature niche space in tropical realms will erode by 2070. Our study identifies critical conservation needs for butterflies and illustrates how the consideration of global insect systems is key for assessing and managing biodiversity loss in a rapidly warming world.
The Role of Mindfulness Meditation for the Management of Hypertension in African American Adults in the US - A Scoping Review
Authors: Woldeamanuel Ermiyas , Johnson Lamar , Patterson Freda
Published: June 2024

Background:The prevalence of hypertension is greater among African American adults than among individuals in other ethnic groups. Mindfulness, an ancient technique that has been used for thousands of years, is acknowledged as a valuable tool for improving health in various ways. However, despite its traditional wisdom, there remains a gap in understanding the standalone effects of MM on hypertension control.
Methods:This review aimed to discuss the role of mindfulness in managing hypertension within the African American adult population in the U.S. PubMed and Scopus were the chosen databases for this exploration. The inclusion criteria comprised papers presenting primary data studies conducted on hypertensive African American patients, specifically reporting on the independent association between mindfulness and hypertension. The exclusion criteria included nonprimary data studies and studies not primarily focused on hypertension or mindfulness.
Results:Following our search strategy, we identified a total of 32 studies. Our review incorporated five randomized controlled trials by excluding manuscripts lacking primary data, nonrandomized clinical trials, and duplicates. Within these studies, mindfulness was administered to participants through either prerecorded MP3s or guidance from trained personnel. The observed reduction in blood pressure ranged from 7.2 mmHg to 21.92 mmHg for systolic blood pressure and from null to 7.2 mmHg for diastolic blood pressure across the five studies. Notably, one study showed no change in diastolic blood pressure.
Discussion:The outcomes of this review can contribute to clinical practice by offering an evidence-based approach for effective hypertension control through MM. The key findings highlight the positive impact of mindfulness on blood pressure regulation and emphasize the use of prerecorded MP3s or trained guidance as effective mindfulness delivery methods. These insights underscore the potential significance of MM as a cost-efficient and side effect-free approach to hypertension management.
LncRNA TMPO-AS1 Facilitates Cervical Cancer Cell Tumorigenesis and Ferroptosis Resistance via Interaction with LCN2
Authors: Ju Ying , Liu Xu , Na Jintong , He Jian , Wu Liangliang , Peng Chunxiu , Wei Ke , Zhan Chenjie , Liu Xiyu , Liao Yuan , Zhang Zhiyong
Published: June 2024

Ferroptosis, characterized by iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation, has demonstrated anti-tumor properties in multiple malignancies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) play a crucial role in the tumorigenesis and progression of cervical squamous cell cancer (CESC); however, the mechanisms underlying the actions of many lncRNAs in ferroptosis remain elusive. Here, the expression level of LICN-TMPO-AS1 in CESC was detected using quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction. Loss- and gain-of-function experiments with TMPO-AS1 were performed using the CCK-8 assay, transwell assays, clone formation, and xenograft models. The relationship between TMPO-AS1, Lipocalin 2 (LCN2), and SFPQ were screened and validated by RNA pull-down/mass spectrometry, co-immunoprecipitation, and western blotting. We found that TMPO-AS1 expression was frequently upregulated in CESC tissues and cells and was strongly associated with a poor prognosis. TMPO-AS1 decreased the lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS), intracellular Fe2+, and malondialdehyde content, resulting in the inhibition of sulfasalazine- and erastin-induced ferroptosis. Overexpression of TMPO-AS1 weakened the anti-tumor sensitivity of sulfasalazine by inhibiting ferroptosis both in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, TMPO-AS1 bound LCN2 and activated LCN2 expression. Targeting LCN2 reduced iron accumulation and ROS generation in Siha cells. Furthermore, LCN2 regulated the expression of solute carrier family 7 member 11 by binding to the splicing factor proline and glutamine-rich. Our study illustrates that TMPO-AS1 plays a crucial role as a tumorigenic regulator and may be a promising therapeutic target for CESC patients with high TMPO-AS1 expression.