bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Prediction of Tooth Restorability Using Artificial Intelligence versus Natural Intelligence: Preliminary Study
Authors: Alshenaiber Rafif , Alharbi Reem , Alzahrani Bandar , AlShehri Khalid , Alnafisah Fahad , Aljulayfi Ibrahim , Alabdulsalam Ziyad , Hashem Qamar
Published: June 2024

Background
Artificial intelligence is largely incorporated into dental research and clinical work. Predicting tooth restorability using artificial intelligence would help inexperienced dental professionals in clinical decision-making and education. This study evaluates the agreement in predicting tooth restorability using parallel periapical radiographs between dental interns and a newly developed artificial intelligence model created and trained to predict tooth restorability.
Materials and Methods
A deep learning model was created and trained using a dataset of 53,035 radiographs according to a tooth restorability prediction score from parallel periapical radiographs developed by six dental specialists. Seventeen radiographs were chosen randomly, and the specialists assessed the restorability of each tooth twice, two weeks apart, per the scoring index they developed. The intra-rater and inter-rater reliability of the specialists were assessed using Cohen's kappa correlation coefficients. The radiographs were then independently assessed once by artificial intelligence and by 20 dental interns. The inter-rater reliability of the responses of the two groups was assessed using Cohen's and Fleiss's kappa correlation coefficients using SPSS and Excel for statistical analysis (p < 0.05).
Results
A perfect level of agreement was found between and among the specialists' responses, with the coefficient of kappa calculated to be 1. However, there was slight disagreement among the dental interns, with the Fleiss kappa calculated to be -0.03832. There was a statistically significant strong agreement between the dental interns and artificial intelligence responses, as the kappa coefficient was calculated to be 0.883, with a p-value < 0.01.
Conclusion
The performance of the developed and trained preliminary artificial intelligence model was similar to or even better than that of dental interns in predicting tooth restorability using parallel periapical radiographs.
Trial Registration:
Research Centre of Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University approval number: SCBR-178/2023 on November 05, 2023, and the institutional review board of Riyadh Second Health Cluster approval number: FWA00018774 on April 22. 2024.
A New Exponential Family of Distributions with Applications to Engineering and Medical Data
Authors: Sapkota Laxmi Prasad , Bam Nirajan , Kumar Vijay
Published: June 2024

This research is centered on exploring a mathematically tractable and versatile family of probability distributions, specifically focusing on one family member. We have used the exponential distribution as a base distribution to create a novel distribution, which we have aptly named the "new odd-type-exponential distribution." In this paper, we provide an overview of the essential characteristics inherent to this innovative distribution. This model showcases a variety of hazard functions, including the reverse-j, decreasing and constant, increasing and constant, and S-shaped shapes. The estimation of the distribution’s parameters is conducted through both classical and Bayesian methods. We validate the accuracy of the classical estimation procedure through simulation studies. These simulations demonstrate a reduction in biases and mean square errors as sample sizes increase, even for smaller samples.
To showcase the practicality of the proposed distribution, we apply it to two sets of real-world data, employing both classical and Bayesian approaches. We evaluate the performance of our suggested distribution model using various model selection criteria and goodness-of-fit test statistics. Empirical evidence from these evaluations confirms that our proposed model surpasses some existing models in the literature. Further, the suggested model was analyzed under the Bayesian approach using the Hamiltonian Monte Carlo method. Its predicting capability was also explored and it can predict the data consistently.
Use of the Brief-BESTest partially instrumented with accelerometry to detect balance deterioration in middle-age
Authors: Baranes Guy , Hayek Roee , Gutman Itai , Frenkel-Toledo silvi , springer shmuel
Published: June 2024

Background
Most standardized balance tests cannot detect subtle balance deterioration in middle age, or identify those at higher risk for accelerated balance decline due to a ceiling effect.
Aims
To determine whether the Brief Balance Evaluation Systems Test (Brief-BESTest), partially instrumented with accelerometry, can detect balance deterioration in middle age and identify individuals with poor balance.
Methods
We studied young (25.3±2.3 years), early middle-aged (47.7±2.6 years), and late middle-aged adults (60.6±3.6 years), with 25 participants in each age group. Subjects wore an accelerometer on their lower back while performing the Brief-BESTest. Balance measurements included the Brief-BESTest total and sub-measures scores, and postural sway during the Brief-BESTest standing tasks, calculated by the 95% confidence ellipse trajectory of the center of mass (COM-95% ellipse).
Results
Compared to the two middle-aged groups, young adults had better total Brief-BESTest and sub-measures scores, apart from the Stability-in-Gait sub-measure, and less postural sway during the Sensory-Orientation sub-measure. The total Brief-BESTest scores as well as the Biomechanical-Constraints and Sensory-Orientation sub-measures differed also between early and late middle-aged adults. Both the Brief-BESTest total scores and the Sensory-Orientation postural sway values demonstrated increased variation with age, allowing to identify subjects with poor balance. A moderate negative correlation (r = -0.43) was found between the Brief-BESTest total score and the COM-95% ellipse size, and a moderate agreement (k = 0.56) in identifying subjects with poor performance in the early but not the late middle age group.
Conclusions
The Brief-BESTest test combined with accelerometry could be a suitable screening tool to identify middle-aged people with early balance deterioration and potentially identify those with poor balance and a possible higher risk for falls. Clinicians and policymakers can use our findings to implement balance assessment programs in patients <65 years, leading to preventive strategies before the risk increases.
Examination of Intestinal Microbiota Abundance of Honey Bees Supplemented and Unsupplemented with Probiotic Bacteria by QPCR
Authors: Sinekçi Yaren , Afşaroğlu Emre , Kabak Büşra , Sarıçayır Selin , Soytemiz Ihsan , OZDEMIR Guven
Published: June 2024

Aim
The aim of this study is to compare the bacterial load in the intestines of honey bees supported and unsupplemented with probiotic supplements.
Methods and Results
To investigate the effects of a commercial bee probiotic containing different Lactobacillus species and different spice extracts on the composition of the gut microbiota of honey bees, QPCR counts of Lactobacillus spp. and Firmicutes phylum gene copies in gut mixtures from 12 different bee groups with and without probiotic supplementation were performed. There was a significant difference between the levels of lactic acid bacteria in the intestines of both groups. When the lactic acid bacteria levels in the intestines of honey bees not given probiotics were compared to the lactic acid bacteria levels in the intestines of honey bees given probiotics, it was determined that there was an approximately 5.5-fold difference.
However, it was observed that there was no significant difference in the total bacterial load in the bee intestines of both groups.
Conclusion
These findings show that the applied probiotic formulation significantly affects the intestinal microbiome of healthy individuals and provides a proportional change in microbial abundance, especially in terms of Lactobacillus spp.
Impact Statement
Although probiotic bacteria are very important for the health of honey bees, if they are applied to honey bees as a supplement, they may not create abundance in the intestines of honey bees. In this study, we showed that there was a proportional increase in total microorganisms in the intestines of honey bees to which honey bee probiotics were applied, and the findings confirm the positive effect that bee producers see on bee health after the application.
Anterolateral ligament of the bilateral knees: assessment of morphological profiles on multi-planar reformatted magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Liu Yu , Wang Lixue , Li Jie , Liang Jianchao , Lan Zhihong , Yu Xiangrong , Zheng Zhuozhao
Published: June 2024

Purpose
The anterior lateral ligament (ALL) plays a pivotal role in providing rotational stability to the knee. We aimed to evaluate the visualization and symmetry of the bilateral ALL by utilizing multi-planar reformatted (MPR) MRI, which was clinical significance for surgical reconstruction procedures.
Methods
Between January 2021 and October 2022, 162 patients who underwent bilateral knee MRI scans were included. Two professional osteoarticular-oriented radiologists assessed the visibility, length, and thickness of the ALL on MPR images. The visibility of the ALL can be classified as "visible", "partially visible", and "invisible". Inter-observer consistency of the ALL profiles was assessed using Fleiss’ kappa or intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The McNemar-Bowker test and t-test were used to analyze ordered categorical and continuous variables, respectively.
Results
The interobserver reliability in the visualization, length, and thickness of the bilateral ALL was good to excellent. The ALL was visible in 116 (71.6%) left and 99 (61.1%) right knees, partially visible in 14 (8.6%) left, and 20 (12.3%) right knees, and invisible in 32 (19.8%) left and 43 (26.5%) right knees. The bilateral ALL was judged as visible in 90 (55.6%), partially visible in 5 (3.1%), and invisible in 29 (17.9%) cases. In the measurable cases, the length and thickness of the bilateral ALLs were non-significant (all P > 0.05). Subgroup analysis showed that the visibility of bilateral ALL was significantly different in the minors and males.
Conclusion
The integrity of the ALL differs between bilateral knees, and the ALLs were asymmetric in the minors and males.
RAB23 facilitates clathrin-coated nascent vesicle formation at the plasma membrane and modulates cell signaling
Authors: Hasan Md. Rakibul , Takatalo Maarit , Nieminen Pekka , Rice Ritva , Mustonen Tuija , Rice David P
Published: June 2024

RAB23 is known to regulate several growth factors signaling during organogenesis. RABs and other small GTPases function as molecular switches during cellular membrane trafficking. However, what has not been established is how RAB23 functions during cellular membrane trafficking and how this influences cell signaling. To address this, we characterized RAB23’s localization in the endocytic pathway and determined the route of endocytosis. We find that RAB23 interacts with β-adaptin (AP2β1) subunit of the clathrin adaptor protein 2 (AP-2) complex, suggesting RAB23’s involvement in clathrin-dependent endocytosis at the plasma membrane. Our results show that RAB23 might function at multiple steps during clathrin-coated nascent vesicle formation. We find that RAB23 interacts with clathrin assembly protein PICALM, vesicle curvature protein endophilin A2, and a protein linked with vesicle scission, cortactin. To understand the functionality of RAB23, we performed time-lapse live cell imaging of transferrin uptake, which showed that clathrin-dependent endocytosis is affected in RAB23 deficient osteoprogenitors with inefficient cargo internalization. Our results show that deficiency of RAB23 reduced the interaction between β-adaptin and clathrin. We demonstrate that vesicle formation upon BMP stimulation and subsequent signal transduction is aberrant in RAB23-deficient cells. We further show evidence by providing microarray data-driven hypergeometric test of differentially expressed genes in WT and RAB23-deficient samples which suggests RAB23’s participation in vesicle formation, endocytosis and cell signaling. Collectively, our data indicate a role for RAB23 in vesicle formation, membrane trafficking, and cell signaling.
Corrosion performance of Cu doped AlCrFeNiMn HEA synthesized via Arc-Melting
Authors: Mpofu P , Malatji N. , Shongwe M. B , Kanyane Lehlogonolo
Published: June 2024

The development of novel corrosion-resistant components is essential since malfunction of materials like super alloys during industrial applications might cause financial loss. Arc-melting and casting were used to create AlCrFeCuNi high entropy alloys (HEAs), which were then doped with various atomic percentages of copper (Cu). Investigations were conducted into the effects of Cu on the evolution of microstructural features, corrosion behavior in various solutions, nano hardness, and thermal stability. The alloy samples had a dendritic microstructure with three different phase zones, as seen by scanning electron micrographs, and EDS validated the elements that were included into the alloys. The behavior of the HEAs' nano hardness and corrosion resistance significantly improved with the addition of Cu. In NaOH and Na2SO4 solutions, 3 at.% Cu samples demonstrated superior resistance to corrosion. With NaCl and H2SO4 solutions, 5 at.% Cu samples displayed greater corrosion resistance. The sample with 1 at.% Cu showed superior corrosion resistance in HCl solution.
Recombinant thrombomodulin and recombinant antithrombin attenuate pulmonary endothelial glycocalyx degradation and neutrophil extracellular trap formation in ventilator-induced lung injury
Authors: Kikuchi Kenichiro , Kazuma Satoshi , Yamakage Michiaki
Published: June 2024

Background: Vascular endothelial damage is involved in the development and exacerbation of ventilator-induced lung injury (VILI). Pulmonary endothelial glycocalyx and neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) are endothelial protective and damaging factors, respectively; however, their dynamics in VILI and the effects of recombinant thrombomodulin and antithrombin on these dynamics remain unclear. We hypothesized that glycocalyx degradation and NETs are induced by VILI and suppressed by recombinant thrombomodulin, recombinant antithrombin, or their combination.
Methods: VILI was induced in male C57BL/6J mice by intraperitoneal lipopolysaccharide injection (20 mg/kg) and high tidal volume ventilation (20 mL/kg). In the intervention groups, recombinant thrombomodulin, recombinant antithrombin, or their combination was administered at the start of mechanical ventilation. Glycocalyx degradation was quantified by measuring serum syndecan-1, fluorescence-labeled lectin intensity, and glycocalyx-occupied area in the pulmonary vascular lumen. Double-stranded DNA in the bronchoalveolar fluid and fluorescent areas of citrullinated histone H3 and myeloperoxidase were quantified as NET formation.
Results: Serum syndecan-1 increased, and lectin fluorescence intensity decreased in VILI. Electron microscopy revealed decreases in glycocalyx-occupied areas within pulmonary microvessels in VILI. Double-stranded DNA levels in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and the fluorescent area of citrullinated histone H3 and myeloperoxidase in lung tissues increased in VILI. Recombinant thrombomodulin, recombinant antithrombin, and their combination reduced glycocalyx injury and NET marker levels. There was little difference in glycocalyx injury and NET makers between the intervention groups.
Conclusion: VILI induced glycocalyx degradation and NET formation. Recombinant thrombomodulin and recombinant antithrombin attenuated glycocalyx degradation and NETs in our VILI model. The effect of their combination did not differ from that of either drug alone. Recombinant thrombomodulin and antithrombin have the potential to be therapeutic agents for biotrauma in VILI.
Bifunctionalised acid-base hierarchically structured monolithic micro-/mesoreactors for continuous-flow tandem catalytic processes. A case study of cyanocinnamate synthesis
Authors: Ciemięga Agnieszka , Maresz Katarzyna , Mrowiec-Białoń Julita
Published: June 2024

The results on zirconia-amine bifunctional modification of hierarchically porous silica monoliths for continuous-flow processes are presented. The study reports the synthesis and properties of the modified porous monoliths and their performance in tandem process of deacetalisation-Knoevenagel condensation reaction. Thermal and FTIR spectroscopy analyses and activity studies were carried out. It was found that the both active centres were uniformly distributed along the monolithic cores. The performance of the bifunctional microreactors was checked and compared with cascade-connected monofunctional microreactors and batch reactor. The yield of cyanocinnamate product obtained in both flow systems was comparable - c.a. 78%, however flow resistance/pressure drop in the bimodified reactor was only half of that in cascade. The effective way of water supply to the continuous flow catalytic system has been proposed. The research demonstrates the benefits of using flow-through structured micro-/mesoreactors to boost tandem reaction processes.
Integrated Evaluation of Inland Lake Water Quality under the Influence of Ecological Water Conveyance
Authors: Aili Aishajiang , Hailiang Xu , Waheed Abdul , Xinfeng Zhao , Peng Zhang
Published: June 2024

Taitema Lake, situated at the terminus of the Tarim River Basin in Northwest China, represents a crucial ecological resource impacted by climate variability and anthropogenic interventions. In this study, we investigate the dynamic changes in Taitema Lake's area and water quality resulting from the implementation of an ecological water transfer project since 2000. Leveraging Landsat remote sensing data and comprehensive water quality monitoring, we analyze the relationship between lake area variations and shifts in water quality parameters. Notably, our findings reveal a significant increase in Taitema Lake's area from 9.4 km² in 2000 to 320 km² in 2013. Concurrently, water quality indicators exhibited marked fluctuations, with total salt content ranging from 45,323.6 mg/L in 2000 to 970.4 mg/L in 2010, before increasing to 14,586.3 mg/L by 2014. Furthermore, a linear regression analysis highlights the moderate positive correlation between lake area and mineralization (R²=0.506) and sodium levels (R²=0.4907). Additionally, chloride (R²=0.5681) and sulfate (R²=0.6213) concentrations demonstrated a strong negative correlation with lake area, indicative of a dilution effect. Furthermore, a comparison of water quality indicators between the years of minimum (2008) and maximum (2013) lake area underscores improvements in pH, chemical oxygen demand, and anionic surfactant concentrations as lake area increased. Our study provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of ecological water management strategies in restoring and maintaining the ecological health of Taitema Lake, thereby informing evidence-based decision-making for the sustainable management of freshwater resources in arid environments.
Investigating the Mechanism of Qingjie Yifei Miao Fang in Synergistic Treatment of Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer with Gefitinib Based on the PTEN/PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathway
Authors: Tang Wenchao , Pan Yue , Xiao Yuanyuan , Li Tongyao , Xie Youliang , Liu Wei
Published: June 2024

Background: To investigate the mechanism of Qingjieyifei Miao Fang (QJYFMF) combined with gefitinib (GE) against non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).
Methods: Network pharmacology was applied to obtain the key targets and signaling pathways of QJYFMF in NSCLC treatment. An A549 cell culture model of QJYFMF and a mouse model of lung cancer surface transplantation were established in vivo and in vitro, respectively. The therapeutic effect of QJYFMF on NSCLC was investigated by CCK-8, flow cytometry, wound healing, and transwell assay. The expression of key proteins in the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway was verified by western blot and qRT-PCR assay.
Results: A total of 98 active components and 901 targets of QJYFMF were obtained, which were mainly concentrated in the PI3K-AKT, MARK, and apoptosis signaling pathways. Compared with the control group, QJYFMF significantly inhibited the A549 cell proliferation rate, promoted cell apoptosis, and reduced the A594 cell migration and invasion abilities. Furthermore, the transplanted tumor volume and weight were decreased, the PTEN, caspase-9, and BAD protein expression levels were increased, the PI3K/p-PI3K, AKT/p-AKT, p-caspase-9 and p-BAD expression levels were decreased, and the BAD and caspase-9 mRNA expression levels were increased. The combined use of GE+QJYFMF displayed greater efficacy.
Conclusion: QJYFMF significantly inhibited NSCLC proliferation, migration, and invasion and promoted cell apoptosis. The combination of GE+QJYFMF can increase the efficacy of GE, and the mechanism may be through the PTEN/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
Comparative performance of tuberculin and defined-antigen cocktails for detecting bovine tuberculosis in BCG-vaccinated cattle in natural settings
Authors: Fromsa Abebe , Conlan Andrew J.K. , Sriniva Sreenidhi , Gumi Balako , Bedada Wegene , Zeleke Miserach , Worku Dawit , Lakew Matios , Tadesse Biniam , Bayissa Berecha , Sirak Asegedech , Abdela Musse Girma , Mekonnen Getnet Abie , Chibssa Tesfaye , Veerasami Maroudam , Jones Gareth , Vordermeier H. Martin , Juleff Nick , Wood James L.N. , Ameni Gobena , Kapur Vivek
Published: June 2024

Bovine tuberculosis (bTB) is a threat to cattle health and public safety. The current control programs are hampered by wildlife reservoirs and socioeconomic barriers. Vaccinating cattle with Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) effectively reduces transmission, offering a potential solution for controlling bTB. A key component of the vaccination strategy is the use of defined antigens to differentiate infections among vaccinated animals (DIVA). We compared tuberculin with a DIVA peptide cocktails (ESAT-6, CFP-10, and Rv3615c) in 67 unvaccinated and 67 BCG-vaccinated cattle exposed to M. bovis in natural settings. The cattle were tested every four months with a skin test and every two months with interferon-gamma release assays (IGRA) over a year of exposure. Before exposure, the DIVA skin, DIVA IGRA, and tuberculin tests showed 100% specificity in unvaccinated control calves. In vaccinated calves, the DIVA IGRA and DIVA skin tests had specificities of 98.5% and 94.0%, respectively, while tuberculin tests induced greater skin thickness and INF-γ production, showing a lack of specificity. After exposure, the DIVA skin, DIVA IGRA, and comparative cervical tuberculin (CCT) tests had relative sensitivities of 47%, 42%, and 43%, respectively, indicating comparable performance and potential utility of DIVA antigens with BCG vaccination. All tests had positive predictive values (PV+) of over 90% but low negative predictive values (PV-) of less than 18%. In high-prevalence herds, test and slaughter control strategies using tests with low sensitivity and predictive value are expected to be ineffective in controlling bTB. Therefore, BCG vaccination is recommended, which reduces disease transmission. Overall, this study highlights the need to improve the sensitivity of diagnostic tests for bTB.
Goodbye to accelerated phase of chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Jiang Qian , Yang Sen , Zhang Xiao-shuai , Gale Robert , Huang Xiaojun
Published: June 2024

Whether there is really a distinct accelerated phase (AP) at diagnosis in chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) in the context of tyrosine kinase-inhibitor (TKI)-therapy and whether co-variates identified as characterizing AP are simply adverse co-variates for outcomes, we studied 2,122 consecutive subjects in chronic phase (CP, n = 1,837) or AP (n = 285) according to the European LeukemiaNet (ELN) classification. AP subjects with increased basophils only had similar transformation-free survival (TFS) and survival compared with CP subjects in ELTS intermediate-risk. AP subjects with increased blasts only had worse TFS but similar survival compared with CP subjects in the ELTS high-risk; AP subjects with decreased platelets only, similar TFS but worse survival. Proportions of CP and AP subjects meeting the 2020 ELN TKI-response milestones were similar. However, worse outcomes were only seen in AP subjects failing to meet ELN milestones. Findings were similar using the 2022 International Consensus Classification (ICC) criteria replacing decreased platelets with additional cytogenetic abnormalities. Our data support the 2022 WHO classification of CML eliminating AP. We suggest adding a very high-risk cohort to the ELTS score including people with increased blasts or decreased platelets and dividing CML into 2 phases: CP and acute phase.
A Simple Method for Bandwidth Enhancement of Dual-Polarized Dipole Antenna Printed on Dielectric Materials
Authors: Li Ronglin , Hu Xiang , Cui Yuehui , He Chiyu
Published: June 2024

In this paper, a simple method for enhancing the bandwidth of a dual-polarized dipole antenna printed on dielectric substrate is presented. By introducing parasitic elements above the crossed dual-polarized dipoles, the bandwidth of the antenna has been increased from 45% to 74% for return loss>15 dB. The parasitic elements can be printed with the dipoles and the integrated balun on the same substrate. The bandwidth enhanced dual-polarized antenna keeps a simple structure, which is easy for manufacturing. The bandwidth enhanced or further enhanced dual-polarized printed-dipole antenna features stable radiation patterns with high isolation, which may find wide applications for 2G/3G/4G/5G base stations.
Comparative biomechanical analysis of pedicle screws versus cortical bone trajectory fixation in the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis
Authors: Zhang Le , Kang Zhijie , Shi Guopeng , Jin Feng , Zhang Yunfeng , Zhang Honglai , Wang Zhenfeng , Wang Haiyan , Zhang Kai , Li Xiaohe
Published: June 2024

Background
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is an inflammatory rheumatic disease. Patients with spinal deformities are typically treated with long-segment pedicle screw (PS) internal fixation after bone resection. However, issues with the operation, such as fracture and screw loosening or pulling out, might arise.
Methods
This study explore the biomechanical responses to PS and cortical bone trajectory (CBT) fixation. Using finite element analysis (FEA) on reconstructed preoperative and postoperative spine models under six conditions, it predicted stiffness, range of motion (ROM), and von Mises stress, comparing PS and CBT fixation effects.
Results
Stiffness was greater in the PS than CBT, while the PS performed better than the CBT under bending stiffness, except for the PS under extension conditions. In flexion, extension, and lateral bending, the PS sustained higher stress than CBT, while in axial rotation, CBT experienced greater stress than PS, with stress concentration at the level of bone resection. Furthermore, during spinal dynamics, calcified ligaments bore substantial stress. Biomechanically, PS demonstrated superior strength during flexion, extension, and lateral bending conditions. Whereas, under conditions of left and right rotation, the CBT technique provided better biomechanical strength.
Conclusion
Compared to PS, the current CBT technique was sufficiently effective in maintaining spinal fusion stability after bone resection for AS.
HDI-STARR-seq: Condition-specific enhancer discovery in mouse liver in vivo
Authors: Chang Ting-Ya , Waxman David J.
Published: June 2024

Background
STARR-seq and other massively-parallel reporter assays are widely used to discover functional enhancers in transfected cell models, which can be confounded by plasmid vector-induced type-I interferon immune responses and lack the multicellular environment and endogenous chromatin state of complex mammalian tissues.
Results
Here, we describe HDI-STARR-seq, which combines STARR-seq plasmid library delivery to the liver, by hydrodynamic tail vein injection (HDI), with reporter RNA transcriptional initiation driven by a minimal Albumin promoter, which we show is essential for mouse liver STARR-seq enhancer activity assayed 7 days after HDI. Importantly, little or no vector-induced innate type-I interferon responses were observed. Comparisons of HDI-STARR-seq activity between male and female mouse livers and in livers from males treated with an activating ligand of the transcription factor CAR (Nr1i3) identified many condition-dependent enhancers linked to condition-specific gene expression. Further, thousands of active liver enhancers were identified using a high complexity STARR-seq library comprised of ~ 50,000 genomic regions released by DNase-I digestion of mouse liver nuclei. When compared to stringently inactive library sequences, the active enhancer sequences identified were highly enriched for liver open chromatin regions with activating histone marks (H3K27ac, H3K4me1, H3K4me3), were significantly closer to gene transcriptional start sites, and were significantly depleted of repressive (H3K27me3, H3K9me3) and transcribed region histone marks (H3K36me3).
Conclusions
HDI-STARR-seq offers substantial improvements over current methodologies for large scale, functional profiling of enhancers, including condition-dependent enhancers, in liver tissue in vivo, and can be adapted to characterize enhancer activities in a variety of species and tissues by selecting suitable tissue- and species-specific promoter sequences.
From Cell to Circuit: Investigating Functional Topological Changes in iPSC-derived Neuronal Networks in Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Wetzel Christian , Issa Rahaf , Wein Simon , Milenkovic Vladimir , Rupprecht Rainer , Schwarzbach Jens
Published: June 2024

The functional organization of brain networks maintains a delicate equilibrium between segregation and integration where it facilitates local neural communication together with effective global integration of information across network’s components. While numerous whole-brain imaging studies have linked alterations in functional topology to major depressive disorder (MDD), our comprehension of how these changes manifest at the cellular level remains limited. Here, we explored whether neuronal networks derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) of nine depressed patients display a distinct functional topology compared to those of matched controls. Spontaneous activity of the derived neuronal networks was captured using calcium imaging, and graph theory analysis was applied to assess functional topology. We computed the graph metrics clustering coefficient and global efficiency to quantify respective network segregation and integration attributes. We also measured the average node degree to assess group differences in the overall number of connections. We observed a decrease in clustering coefficient and average node degree in MDD-derived neural networks compared to those of controls. Global efficiency also exhibited a decreasing trend in patient-derived networks across varying thresholds and network sizes. Together, our findings reveal diminished segregation properties and a reduced number of nodal connections in MDD-derived neural networks, suggesting a predisposition for a less efficient functional topology in depression already at the microscale. This work marks the first attempt to explore microscale alterations in functional topology of human-derived neural networks in MDD and highlights the power of iPSC technology in providing a human cellular model to better understand disease mechanisms.
Dynamics of bank lending in ukraine: influence of the development of digital innovations and technologies
Authors: Semenog Andrii
Published: June 2024

The article examines the relevance of the development digital innovations and technologies and their impact on the growth of the fintech direction of digital lending, which is represented by the landscape of fintech companies that use the disruptive power of digital technologies and the advantages of innovations of service institutions to offer consumers a wide range of digital credit products and services. The purpose of the article is to define the essence of digital lending and identify the role of digital technologies and innovations in the development of fintech, using the example of calculating the dynamics of bank lending in Ukraine. The article characterises the essence, types and significance of digital technologies in the context of the general development of the financial sphere and the credit market. The role and types of financial innovations are highlighted as the ability of fintech companies to combine digital technologies through product and service transformations. The unique role in terms of scale and impact on other areas of financial innovation of digital lending as a direction of fintech focused on digital forms of providing and administering loans through digital channels using a range of digital technologies to collect and process digital customer data is emphasised. A description of the directions of digital lending and the critical component of its development is presented. The bank is proposed to be characterised as the primary mediator in the credit market using digital innovations and technologies. A set of more than 30 indicators has been formed within three groups of components for evaluating the effectiveness of digital lending by banks, characterising the state and dynamics of non-cash transactions, the use of payment cards, payment and credit banking infrastructure, and credit and deposit activities of banks. A methodology for calculating the Harrington desirability function is proposed to calculate a comprehensive assessment of the “quality” of the functioning of the electronic payment segment of the banking sector of Ukraine in the context of the potential for developing digital banking lending.
The environmental footprint of e-commerce in modern conditions
Authors: Prykhodko Anna
Published: June 2024

The article is devoted to studying the ecological impact of e-commerce on the environment and the theoretical aspect of setting and applying sustainable development goals in this sector. As part of the work, an analysis of the growing trend of digital business model research was carried out, considering the three main goals of sustainable development. The relevance of the research is due to the rapid changes in the world, which must be responded to to provide for future generations. Such research methods were used as abstraction, synthesis, empirical research methods, the Scopus information platform's resource base, comparison method, graphic interpretation, and the VosViewer program. The article considered the main opinions of scientists regarding electronic commerce. A bibliographic analysis from the Scopus scientometric database is shown. The relationship between «e-commerce» and «sustainable development» was investigated. The dependence of Internet users over time on social network users from 2012 to 2022 was shown. This dependence was shown in the context of the growth of digital sales, which reflects trends in e-commerce, where the parallel development of Internet users and social networks took place. According to the graph, the equation of direct dependence is given and the coefficient of multiple determination - R2 is determined. In addition, it is determined to increase sales of goods worldwide with ecological delivery and ecological packaging. The implementation of environmentally friendly packaging and delivery not only contributes to the preservation of the environment, but also positively affects the image of the company, making it more attractive to customers who support sustainability and environmental responsibility. It also showed shoppers' appreciation of green alternatives for e-commerce packaging and found that people are willing to pay more for green shipping. The results of the study allow company managers and buyers to adhere to the goals of sustainable development.
How Natural Resources, Consumer Perceptions, and Labor Are Transforming the US Nursery Industry
Authors: Fields Jeb S. , Nackley Lloyd L. , Shreckhise Jacob H. , Bampasidou Maria , Contreras Ryan , Kantrovich Adam , Knuth Melinda J. , Owen James S. , White Sarah A.
Published: June 2024

The nursery industry produces and sells plants for landscape and environmental purposes and represents a major sector within the US agricultural industry. In recent years, the nursery industry has undergone rapid growth as a result of various factors, including increased demand from housing development and pandemic-fueled interest in home horticulture. As with any industry, the nursery industry must adapt to changes in societal trends to sustain growth. In the wake of unprecedented societal and supply chain issues stemming from the global coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the American Society for Horticultural Science Nursery Crops Professional Interest Group gathered experts in various disciplines to provide their opinions and insights into the future of the nursery industry, focusing specifically on the changes and challenges the nursery industry will face in the coming decade. Nursery crop specialists spanning the United States identified three primary areas that will steer the future momentum of the nursery industry: consumer trends, natural resources, and labor. Six experts were selected to represent these areas in a workshop held Jul 2022 at the American Society for Horticultural Science Annual Conference in Chicago, IL, USA. This article was developed to disseminate to the greater scientific community the discussions held and insight shared during that workshop.
OKUL ÖNCESİ DÖNEMDE ÇOCUĞU OLAN EBEVEYNLERİN DİJİTAL OYUNLARA İLİŞKİN GÖRÜŞLERİNİN İNCELENMESİ
Authors: Kesicioglu Oguz Serdar
Published: June 2024

Araştırma okul öncesi dönemde çocuğu olan ebeveynlerin dijital oyunlara ilişkin görüşlerinin incelenmesi amacıyla yapılmıştır. Araştırmada, temel nitel araştırma yaklaşımı benimsenmiştir. Nitel araştırma, insanın kendi potansiyelini anlaması, sırlarını çözmesi ve çabasıyla inşa ettiği sosyal yapı ve sistemlerin derinliklerini keşfetmek için geliştirdiği bilgi üretme biçimlerindendir. Araştırmada ebeveynlerin dijital oyunlara araçlarına ilişkin görüşlerinin tespit edilmesi amaçlandığından nitel araştırma desenlerinden biri olan durum çalışması kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın çalışma grubunu çocukları okul öncesi eğitim kurumuna devam eden 300 ebeveyn oluşturmaktadır. Çalışma grubunun belirlenmesinde amaçlı örnekleme yöntemlerinden ölçüt örnekleme tekniği kullanılmıştır. Ebeveynlerinin çocuklarının dijital oyun oynamalarına ilişkin verileri toplamak için açık uçlu görüşme soruları kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın verileri içerik analizi yöntemiyle analiz edilmiştir. Araştırma sonucunda ebeveynlerin dijital oyunları genel olarak olumsuz olarak tanımladıkları, ebeveynlerin çocuklarının dijital oyunlarla zaman geçirmelerinin nedenleri en yüksek oranlarda anne babanın ilgisizliği, oyun arkadaşının olmaması olarak belirttikleri; ebeveynlerin, çocukların dijital oyun oynamak için tercih ettikleri araçları ve benzer şekilde çocukları için en zararlı olduğunu düşündükleri araçları ise telefon ve tablet olarak belirttikleri sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.
EVALUATION OF THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF MOTHERS: A DESCRIPTIVE CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS STUDY
Authors: Kırbaş Zila Özlem
Published: June 2024

This study aimed to examine quality of life in children with special needs and affecting factors
from the perspective of mothers. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with
mothers (n=99) of children with special needs between the ages of 5-18 living in a province in
the Eastern Black Sea Region of Türkiye. Personal Information Form and QI-Disability-Parent
Form were used to collect data. A significant difference was found between children’s QI-Disability-
Parent Form total scores and their diagnosis and verbal communication ability (p
DISPARITIES IN ACCESS TO HEALTHCARE AMONG IMMIGRANTS IN TÜRKİYE
Authors: Hatipoglu Serra Sevde
Published: June 2024

Türkiye is hosting 5.1 million foreign people with 3.8 million seeking international protection. The categorization of the legal status of the migrants as refugees, conditional refugees, and subsidiary protections has been made by the Law of Foreigners and International Protection, and defined as international protection status. According to the Turkish Presidency of Migration Management, most of the immigrants in Türkiye are Syrians who have been granted temporary protection status. In Türkiye, the rate of inequalities in access to health and healthcare is high and evident among immigrants who are already in a disadvantageous position. The aim of this study is, initially, to identify structural and political factors that lead to immigrants having different immigration statuses in accessing health services. Secondly, even if immigrants have access to health services according to their immigration status, the obstacles they face in accessing health services may occur due to SES differences. Therefore, the fundamental cause theory has been used to explain disparities in access to healthcare for the immigrants in Türkiye. In addition to potential policy changes regarding the regulation of the legal statuses, the importance of social determinants of health practices has been highlighted and further practices have been suggested in this regard.
Lamellar Double Hydroxides Intercaled with Humic Substances and Nitrate: Evaluation of Phosphate Removal in Water and Application in Agricultural Sectors
Authors: da Silva Amanda , Santos Oseas , de Oliveira Luciana , Paulino Sivaldo , Botero Wander
Published: June 2024

Phosphate species can affect aquatic ecosystems, as excess of this nutrient can cause eutrophication, generating environmental impacts. Lamellar double hydroxides have shown promise in removing phosphate at low concentrations (10-50 mg L-1). In this context, lamellar double hydroxides were synthesized interspersed with nitrates and humic substances, searching for a new product that favors phosphorus adsorption. X-ray diffraction showed the presence of characteristic peaks of lamellar double hydroxides and thermogravimetric analysis showed the decomposition behavior of lamellar structure. The adsorption capacity occurred quickly (< 30 min), being more efficient for lamellar double hydroxides with NO3. The maximum adsorption capacity showed results of 35.03 and 44.20 mg g-1 for lamellar double hydroxides with humic substances and lamellar double hydroxides with NO3, respectively. The complexation capacity showed that pH directly influences complexation, being greater for lamellar double hydroxides with humic substances at pH 6.5. Thus, nanostructured materials with humic substances are promising for use in contaminant remediation and adsorption can be a fast and efficient technique for use in soil and water.
Enhanced removal of 1,2-dichloroethane by nanoscale calcium peroxide activation with Fe(III) coupled with different iron sulfides
Authors: Zhao Xuanran , Xu Yuanze , Zhu Xueqiang , Cao Enwei , Wang Wei , Lyu Shuguang
Published: June 2024

Fe(II) is of great importance in iron-based advanced oxidation processes. However, traditional methods to maintain Fe(II) concentration, such as the addition of chelating agents or reducing agents, may lead to an increase in chemical oxygen demand of secondary pollution. Therefore, in this study, iron sulfides, namely ferrous sulfide (FeS), pyrite (FeS2), and sulfidated nanoscale zero-valent iron (S-nZVI), were applied for not only the regeneration of Fe(II) but also the direct dissolution of Fe(II). Nanoscale calcium peroxide (nCaO2) was synthesized and used as the oxidant. The removal of 1,2-dichloroethane (1,2-DCA) were significantly promoted from 8.8 to 98.2, 79.2, and 80.8% with the aid of FeS, FeS2, and S-nZVI within 180 min, respectively. The dominant reactive oxygen species were demonstrated and their steady-state concentrations were quantified. Besides, the dechlorination of 1,2-DCA reached 90.4, 69.5, and 83.9% in nCaO2/Fe(III) systems coupled with FeS, FeS2, and S-nZVI, respectively. All three systems had high tolerance to the complex water conditions, of which FeS-enhanced nCaO2/Fe(III) system displayed the best performance, which could be recommended to put into practice for the remediation of 1,2-DCA contaminated groundwater.
Organophosphorus Synthesis beyond P-Cl Bond: The Development of Shelf-stable Reagents for [RP] Transfer
Authors: Romanenko Vadim D.
Published: June 2024

:

The direct chlorine-free incorporation of P1 units into organic molecules has very
important synthetical value owing to environmental considerations and the prospect of accessing
unique compounds with fascinating structures and useful properties. This selective
survey presents a panorama of phosphorus species that are synthetic equivalents of free
singlet phosphinidenes [R-P] and highlights the state-of-art of the [RP]-transfer reactions
with emphasis on the synthesis of molecular architectures difficult to reach using traditional
methods. Among stabilized phosphinidene precursors capable of RP-transfer are terminal
transition-metal phosphinidene and phosphinidenoid complexes, dibenzo-7λ3-
phosphinobornadienes, phosphinidene-phosphoranes, inversely polarized phosphaalkenes,
phosphaketenes, intramolecularly base-stabilized phosphinidenes, (cyclo)polyphosphines
and diphosphenes.
Design of Optimized Solid Lipid Nanoparticles of Montelukast Sodium and Assessment of Oral Bioavailability in Experimental Model
Authors: Dangre Pankaj , Wankhede Paresh , Moravkar Kailas , Kalaskar Mohan , Mundada Atish , Chalikwar Shailesh
Published: June 2024

Introduction:

The objective of the reported work was to develop Montelukast sodium
(MS) solid lipid nanoparticles (MS-SLNs) to ameliorate its oral bio-absorption. Herein, the highpressure
homogenization (HPH) principle was utilized for the fabrication of MS-SLNs.

Method:

The study encompasses a 23 full factorial statistical design approach where mean particle
size (Y1) and percent entrapment efficiency (Y2) were screened as dependent variables while, the
concentration of lipid (X1), surfactant (X2), and co-surfactant (X3) were screened as independent
variables. The investigation of MS-SLNs by DSC and XRD studies unveiled the molecular
dispersion of MS into the SLNs while TEM study showed the smooth surface of developed MSSLNs.
The optimized MS-SLNs exhibited mean particle size (MPS) = 115.5 ± 1.27 nm,
polydispersity index (PDI) = 0.256 ± 0.04, zeta potential (ζ) = -21.9 ± 0.32 mV and entrapment
efficiency (EE) = 90.97 ± 1.12 %. The In vivo pharmacokinetic study performed in Albino Wistar
rats revealed 2.87-fold increments in oral bioavailability.

Results:

The accelerated stability studies of optimized formulation showed good physical and
chemical stability. The shelf life estimated for the developed MS-SLN was found to be 22.38
months.

Conclusion:

At the outset, the developed MS-SLNs formulation showed a significant increment
in oral bioavailability and also exhibited excellent stability in exaggerated storage conditions.