bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VIOLÊNCIA DIRECIONADA: CERCAMENTOS E EXPROPRIAÇÕES SOBRE OS TERRITÓRIOS CAMPONESES NA AMAZÔNIA
Authors: Ramos de Matos Lucas
Published: January 2024

O fenômeno da invasão de Áreas Protegidas e territórios comunitários impôs significativas mutações territoriais na região Amazônia. Um verdadeiro abaixo as fronteiras da natureza se mostra sobre as florestas nativas e os territórios dos povos comunitários. Analisa-se, neste artigo, aspectos dos conflitos territoriais entorno de recursos naturais (terra, água, madeira, minério, etc.) resultados desse processo. Neste caso, utilizamos como referência empírica o complexo conflito na reserva em bloco do PA Margarida Alves, na região central de Rondônia. Por meio de uma abordagem amparada na etnogeografia, “explorando” o cotidiano dos conflitos por terra, território e natureza, tentaremos demonstrar que, em um complexo geopolítico de radicalismos, causas interativas e efeitos, houve uma ruptura com as práticas conservacionistas localmente impulsionada pelo choque de forças exógenas e coerências territoriais endógenas. Neste sentido, explicitamos o foco desta abordagem nas dimensões da realidade empírica dos conflitos territoriais acirrados pelos regimes de expropriações e cercamentos sobre as Áreas Protegidas e os territórios comunitários na Amazônia. Observou-se que a situação das famílias camponesas do PA Margarida Alves ficou invisível diante de um regime histórico de expropriação e cercamentos sobre o território camponês.
A ESTRANGEIRA. PERCORREDO A MEMÓRIA DA MULHER MIGRANTE: A ANGUSTIOSA BUSCA POR TERRA E LAR.
Authors: Ferreira Costa Jéssica , Gilson da Costa Silva Ricardo
Published: January 2024

Este artigo examina a jornada de migração socioespacial de uma mulher camponesa que reside no Assentamento Madre Cristina, em Ariquemes, Rondônia. Abordamos aspectos fundamentais relacionados à formação de sua família e seu histórico de luta pela terra, desde sua infância até sua conscientização e envolvimento em movimentos sociais. Investigamos as implicações da questão agrária em sua vida, que a levaram a empreender uma jornada migratória junto com sua família até o município de Ariquemes, onde se uniram ao campesinato após uma corajosa luta pela Reforma Agrária em Rondônia. O objetivo desta pesquisa é aprofundar nossa compreensão das experiências vividas por ela e sua família quando chegaram a esse município como sem-terra. Também discutimos como emergiu e se desenvolveu a luta pela terra, na qual os sujeitos pesquisados desempenharam um papel crucial. Este estudo fornece informações relevantes sobre a questão agrária e a luta pela terra na região centro-oeste de Rondônia. A coleta de dados ocorreu durante o trabalho de campo, utilizando questionários, entrevistas semiestruturadas e observação participante. Os resultados indicam que os problemas ligados à questão agrária no Brasil têm raízes políticas, relacionadas à sua história territorial e agravadas pela modernização agrícola. Diante desse contexto, a participante e sua família, integrados ao MST (Movimento dos Trabalhadores Rurais Sem Terra) em Rondônia, contribuem ativamente para o avanço da reforma agrária, compartilhando sua história com milhares de famílias que compartilham o mesmo sonho coletivo: o acesso à terra e a construção do campesinato.
TERRA SANGRADA: MASSACRES DOS POVOS DO CAMPO, DAS ÁGUAS E DAS FLORESTAS NA PAN-AMAZÔNIA
Authors: Ribeiro Alyson Fernando
Published: January 2024

A barbárie como manifestação da violência aparece como estrutura sistêmica do capitalismo e é um presente vivo, enganando-se quem acredita que é passado. Este texto faz uma reflexão sobre a violência no seio da reprodução do capital, tendo como base o Relatório de Assassinatos na Pan-Amazônia, publicado pela Comissão da Pastoral da Terra (CPT). As terras dos povos do campo, das águas e das florestas vivenciam invasões, cuja resistência é repelida brutalmente sob a forma de assassinatos na Bolívia, Brasil, Colômbia, Equador e Peru, praticados pelos grileiros, fazendeiros, garimpeiros, militares, narcotraficantes e pela força policial (braço armado do Estado). Esse cenário é representativo da acumulação primitiva em curso na Pan-Amazônia, que busca a transformação de tudo em mercadoria através da capacidade produtiva do capital e sua dinâmica do mais-valor. Na Amazônia brasileira, o campesinato encontra seu extremo: o latifúndio grilado e improdutivo que, pelo arrepio da violência armada, disputa a(s) riqueza(s) diversa(s) e adversa(s) da (na) terra.
Factors Influencing the Positive Aspects of Caregiving in Family Caregivers of People with Dementia: A Mixed-Methods Systematic Review Protocol
Authors: CHEN Liuliu , ZHONG Mengqi , ZHAO Junyan , Yang Liu , ZHU Nanxi , ZHANG Jianghui , ZHANG Hongtao , Lin Hui , Li Muyao , Li Zhenwen , DENG Renli
Published: January 2024

Aim: To provide an overview of the various influencing factors related to the positive
aspects of caring for dementia patients by family caregivers.
Design: Mixed-methods systematic review.
Methods: The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guided this protocol as reported. Peer-reviewed studies published in English from 1997 to the present will be searched via information sources, gray literature, and the following databases: Web of Science, PsycINFO, PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. Eligible trials will also be retrieved from ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform. For the mixed-method studies, which will include both qualitative and quantitative studies, the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool will be used. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for case-control and cohort studies, as well as critical appraisal tools for cross-sectional and quantitative studies from the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI), will be consulted to assess the methodological quality of the studies, and the data will be extricated with JBI data extraction tools. The narrative form of the findings will be presented in the absence of textual pooling.
Discussion: This systematic review will synthesize and analyze the factors that influence the positive aspects of caring for dementia patients by family caregivers.
Conclusion: The findings will help decision-makers to adopt more appropriate and effective interventions for caregivers of people with dementia.
Patient or public contributions: This protocol study will ascertain the factors affecting the mediation of and path to improved caregiving, explore the factors’ action mechanisms, and examine the controlling factors to design a more targeted intervention program to improve caregiving, thus improving dementia patients’ outcomes and care. Contributions of the findings will include evidence of strategies that address ongoing dementia caregiving issuesand the identification of areas for future research.
Facilitators and Barriers to Vaccination Uptake in Pregnancy: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Razai Mohammad S , Mansour Rania , Ravindran Kavi , Freeman Samuel , Mason-Apps Charlotte , Morris Joan , Majeed Azeem , Ussher Michael , Hargreaves Sally , Oakeshott Pippa
Published: January 2024

Introduction
Vaccination during pregnancy protects both the mother and the foetus from vaccine-preventable diseases. However, uptake of the recommended vaccines (influenza, pertussis, COVID-19) by pregnant women remains low in Europe and the USA. Understanding the reasons for this is crucial to inform strategies to increase vaccination rates in pregnant women. This qualitative systematic review aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators to vaccination against influenza, pertussis/whooping cough and COVID-19 during pregnancy and identify possible strategies to increase vaccination rates.
Methods
We conducted a comprehensive search of electronic databases, including Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, WHO database, Embase and grey literature to identify qualitative studies that explored barriers and facilitators to vaccine uptake among pregnant women (PROSPERO CRD42023399488). The search was limited to studies published between 2012 and 2022 conducted in high-income countries with established vaccination programmes during pregnancy. Studies were thematically analysed and underwent quality assessment using the Joanna Briggs Institute validated critical appraisal tool for qualitative research.
Results
Out of 2681 articles screened, 28 studies (n=1573 participants) were eligible for inclusion. Five overarching themes emerged relating to personal, provider and systemic factors. Barriers to vaccine uptake included concerns about vaccine safety and efficacy, lack of knowledge about vaccines’ benefits and necessity, fear of adverse effects on the foetus or mother and low perception of disease severity. Facilitators included recommendations from trusted healthcare providers, easy access to vaccination, clear communication on the benefits and safety of vaccination, and positive social influences from family and friends. Strategies for increasing vaccination uptake included strong and proactive vaccine recommendations by trusted healthcare professionals, provision of vaccines during routine antenatal care, and clear and consistent communication about vaccines addressing pregnant women’s concerns.
Conclusion
This review highlights the need for interventions that address the identified barriers to vaccine uptake among pregnant women. Recommendation from a healthcare provider can play a significant role in promoting vaccine uptake, as can clear risk/benefit communication and convenient access to vaccination. Addressing concerns about vaccine safety and providing accurate information about vaccines is also important.
Leveraging Artificial Intelligence for Enhanced Project Completion in Education
Authors: SWARGIARY KHRITISH
Published: January 2024

This research investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in educational settings, specifically its impact on project-based learning. In a controlled environment, 200 students participated, evaluating the effects of an AI-driven project completion support system on time management, engagement, and academic performance. Significant improvements were observed in the Experimental Group, emphasizing the positive influence of AI on educational project completion and its potential to enhance overall academic success. Sampling involved 200 students from Mumbai, India, randomly assigned to control (n = 100) and experimental (n = 100) groups using unbiased random sampling techniques, ensuring generalizability. Data collection employed pre/post-project surveys, project completion rates, and academic metrics, capturing insights into students' habits before and after AI support system implementation. Led by EdTech Research Association faculty and co-author Kavita Roy, the study showcased marked improvements in time management, engagement, and academic performance in the Experimental Group. The AI-driven system emerged as an effective guide, aiding students in time management and positively influencing engagement and academic performance. Acknowledging study limitations guides future research. Implications advocate for strategic AI integration in education, urging institutions and policymakers to responsibly adopt AI tools. Positive outcomes highlight the need for preparing students for the digital age. Future research should explore long-term effects, diversity considerations, ethics, and teacher training programs, providing a comprehensive understanding of AI's role in education. In summary, the findings underscore AI's positive impact on project completion, signaling a path to a more efficient learning environment and contributing significantly to students' overall academic success in the evolving educational technology landscape.
PCME and PCO Rates After Combined Phaco-Trabeculectomy vs. Phaco Alone
Authors: Achiron Asaf , Levinger Eliya , Ostrovsky Michael , Friehmann Asaf , Elhaddad Omar , Tole Derek , Darcy Kieren , Leadbetter Duncan , Tuuminen Raimo , Goldberg Mordechai
Published: January 2024

Background: To assess the risk for pseudophakic cystoid macular edema (PCME) and posterior capsular opacification (PCO) associated with combined cataract surgery and trabeculectomy compared to cataract surgery alone.
Methods: Data analysis of subjects who underwent routine cataract surgery without and with concomitant trabeculectomy at the Department of Ophthalmology, Bristol Eye Hospital, the UK, between January 2008 and December 2017. Odds ratios (ORs) for PCME between the types of surgeries were calculated using univariate and multivariate regression analysis. Multivariate Cox regression controlling for age and gender was used to estimate the hazard ratio (HR) for neodymium-doped yttrium aluminium garnet (Nd:YAG) laser capsulotomies.
Results: This study included 56,973 cataract surgeries without and 288 with concomitant trabeculectomy (phaco-trab) with a mean follow-up time of 6.9 ± 4.2 years.
Baseline variables (age and gender, diabetes, pseudoexfoliation, use of pupil expansion device, and postoperative follow-up time) were comparable between the groups. Postoperative rates of PCME remained non-significant between the cataract surgery and phaco-trabe groups both in uni- and multivariate analysis (OR 0.347, 95%CI 0.049-2.477, p=0.291). Furthermore, in Cox regression analysis adjusted for the patients' age and gender, Nd:YAG laser capsulotomy rates remained non-significant between the cataract surgery and phaco-trabe groups(HR 1.250, 95%CI 0.883-1.769, p=0.209).
Conclusions: In our large cohort study, combining trabeculectomy with cataract surgery did not predispose to an increased risk of major postoperative complications.
Extreme fast charging of lithium metal batteries enabled by a molten-salt-derived nanocrystal interphase
Authors: Yang Chunlei , Wu Wei , Niu Fang , Sun Chuankui , Wang Qingrong , Wang Man , Wang Jun , Deng Yonghong , Ning De , Wu Liyun , Li Wenjie , Zhang Jie , Chen Ming , Cheng Huiming
Published: January 2024

The extreme fast charging performance of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) with a long life is an important focus in the development of next-generation battery technologies. The friable solid electrolyte interphase and dendritic lithium growth are major problems. We report the formation of an inorganic nanocrystal-dominant interphase produced by pre-immersing the Li in molten lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide that suppresses the overgrowth of the usual interphase. Its high surface modulus combined with fast Li+ diffusivity enables a reversible dendrite-proof deposition under ultrahigh-rate conditions. It gives a record-breaking cumulative plating/stripping capacity of >240,000 mAh cm−2 at 30 mA cm−2@30 mAh cm−2 for a symmetric cell and an extreme fast charging performance at 6 C for 500 cycles for a Li||LiCoO2 full cell with a high-areal-capacity, thus expanding the use of LMBs to high-loading and power-intensive scenarios. Its usability both in roll-to-roll production and in different electrolytes indicates its scalable and industrial potential.
Work Ability and Return-To-Work of Patients with Post-COVID-19: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Ottiger Marcel , Poppele Iris , Sperling Naveen , Schlesinger Torsten , Müller Katrin
Published: January 2024

Background: In addition to several sequelae of post-COVID-19, individuals also experience significant limitations in work ability, resulting in negative consequences for the return-to-work (RTW) process. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to assess the impact of post-COVID-19 on work ability and RTW of individuals previously infected with SARS-CoV-2.
Methods: Studies on the work ability and RTW of patients with post-COVID-19 (more than 12 weeks after an acute SARS-CoV-2 infection) were regarded eligible for inclusion. Systematic search of literature was performed up to March 2023 using five databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, CENTRAL and WHO COVID 19). Study selection followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) Statement. A meta-analysis estimated the overall success rate of RTW. The risk of bias of the included studies was evaluated with the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS).
Results: 19 relevant studies, published between 2021 and 2023, were included in the systematic review, involving 21.155 patients from 14 different countries. The findings indicate that a significant proportion of individuals with post-COVID-19 experience persistent symptoms and functional impairments, with fatigue being the most prominent symptom. These persistent symptoms can have a considerable (negative) impact on individuals' physical and psychological capacity to participate in work-related activities, leading to lower work ability and increased absenteeism. The RTW for post-COVID-19 patients is complex, with approximately 60.9% of patients successfully returning to work after 12 or more weeks following SARS-CoV-2 infection. Among those who successfully returning to work, a considerable number need modifications in their work duties or hours to cope with residual impairments. Factors such as workplace accommodations, supportive policies, and occupational rehabilitation programs play a crucial role in facilitating successful RTW.
Conclusions:The systematic review underscores the substantial impact of post-COVID-19 on work-related outcomes. The implications of this research highlight the need for healthcare providers, employers, and policymakers to collaborate in creating inclusive work environments and implementing tailored rehabilitation programs to support individuals recovering from post-COVID-19. Further research should focus on long-term follow-up studies with mixed methods to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the long-term consequences of post-COVID-19 on work ability and RTW outcomes.
PROSPERO registration number: CRD42023385436
Minimally invasive determination of PDAC subtype and therapy-induced subtype switch by means of circulating cell-free RNA
Authors: Lueong Smiths , Metzenmacher Martin , Trajkovic-Arsic Marija , Cheung Phyllis F. Y. , Reißig Timm M. , von Neuhoff Nils , Grainne O'Kane , Gallinger Steven , Ramotar Stephanie , Dodd Anna , Knox Jennifer J , Muckenhuber Alexander , Kunzmann Volker , Horn Peter A. , Hoheisel Jörg D. , Siveke Jens Thomas
Published: January 2024

Background Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) comprises two clinically relevant subtypes. Currently, determining the tumor subtype relies on tissue biopsies. Unfortunately, these biopsies are spatially biased, highly invasive, difficult to obtain, and unsuitable for monitoring tumor dynamics. Methods We employed whole transcriptome sequencing (WTS) on circulating cell-free (cf) RNA in plasma samples from patients with well-characterized tumor subtypes. Additionally, quantitative protein mass spectrometry was utilized to identify minimally invasive markers for tumor subtypes. We validated our findings using independent liquid and tissue samples from large clinical trials and investigated treatment-induced subtype dynamics and responses. Results An exploratory analysis of 10 patients (four basal-like and six classical) was conducted using whole transcriptome sequencing (WTS). Following differential transcript abundance analysis and integration with expression data from tumor and non-tumor samples (N > 200), we identified 32 protein-coding subtype-specific cfRNA-defined transcripts. The subtype specificity of these transcripts was validated in two independent tissue cohorts comprising 195 and 250 cases, respectively. Three disease-relevant cfRNA-defined subtype markers (DEGS1, KDELC1, andRPL23AP7) consistently associated with basal-like tumors across all cohorts and were validated using machine learning. Further analysis of these markers using RT-ddPCR in over 160 patient sera and 24 samples from healthy donors revealed their predictive and prognostic value, as well as subtype specificity and therapy-induced dynamics. In both tumor and liquid biopsies, the overexpression of these markers was associated with poor overall and progression-free survival. Moreover, elevated tissue/liquid levels of the identified markers were linked to a poor response to systemic therapy and rapid disease recurrence in resected patients. Conclusion Our data provide support for the clinical significance of cfRNA markers in determining tumor subtypes and monitoring disease recurrence and therapy-induced subtype switches in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). Consequently, further validation studies in larger independent cohorts are warranted to confirm the robustness and generalizability of these findings.
Predictors of Neonatal Hyperbilirubinemia's Outcome and Their Relationships to the Etiology.
Authors: Ali Basma Abdelmoez , Mahmoud Eman Abdelmaged , Shehata Nageh Mohamed
Published: January 2024

Background
Neonatal jaundice (NJ) accounts for 13.5% of all neonatal care unit admission, making it the third common cause of admission for neonates. Although jaundice is a benign condition, newborn should be assessed in order to prevent further progression into severe hyperbilirubinemia and acute encephalopathy. So, we aimed in this study to assess neonatal hyperbilirubinemia etiologies, outcomes, and the predictors of these outcomes in Minia Governorate, Egypt.
Methods
It was a prospective study included one hundred sixty nine neonates with clinical jaundice who were admitted in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit in Minia university children hospital during the period from August 2022 to May 2023. They randomly selected and were subjected to; a structured questioner, clinical examination and laboratory investigations. They were followed up to detect their outcomes (survival, mortality or discharged with complications.
Results
most common cause is exaggerated physiological jaundice (40.8%) followed by ABO incompatibility (25.4%), RH incompatibility (16.6%), sepsis (8.9%) and G6PD deficiency (%8.3).Neonates with exaggerated physiological jaundice were statistically significant recovered more than those with other causes. Neonates with sepsis had poor outcome. Bilirubin level at admission was a significant predictor for the good outcome (survival) of neonatal hyperbilirubinemia.
Conclusion
Weight, prematurity, history of previous jaundiced baby, breast feeding, bilirubin level at admission and CRP were significantly related to the outcome of jaundice.
Bioprospecting and Repurposing of Leaf Biomass to Support Sustainable Biopharmacy: Evaluation of seasonal chemical variations and biological activities of six Eucalyptus essential oils
Authors: Migacz Izabel Pietczak , Wang Mei , Faoro Janaine Alberto Marangoni , Santos Sidney Mariano dos , Formagio Anelise Samara Nazari , Kassuya Candida Aparecida Leite , Rehman Junaid Ur , Perera Wilmer Hervet , Gonçalves Vitória Caroline , Chaves Douglas Siqueira de Almeida , Raman Vijayasankar , Farago Paulo Vitor , Khan Ikhlas Ahmed , Manfron Jane
Published: January 2024

This study focuses on six Eucalyptus species, namely E. badjensis, E. benthamii, E. dunnii, E. grandis, E. globulus, and E. saligna aiming at a sustainable use of their green biomass. These species were grown at the same location and stage of development. Leaf essential oils were extracted by hydrodistillation using a Clevenger apparatus during the four seasons. GC-MS and HPTLC techniques were used to analyze the chemical composition. E. badjensis displayed a consistent composition, with 1,8-cineole being the predominant component. Notably, the proportion of 1,8-cineole in E. badjensis was 77,35% in spring, 69,46% in summer, 95,30% in autumn, and 89,30% in winter. E. globulus also exhibited 1,8-cineole as its primary constituent, with proportions fluctuating slightly across seasons at 84,87%, 79,94%, 81%, and 85,88%, respectively. The proportions and constituents of various species differed significantly. HPTLC was successfully used as a swift technique to monitor the chemical composition of essential oils (EOs) in various Eucalyptus species during the seasonality. GC/MS and HPTLC analysis showed that different Eucalyptus species displayed unique chemical compositions, while both the chemical profile and productivity of all analyzed EOs were affected by seasonality. This finding was demonstrated in the principal components cluster. The analysis of six species has revealed that the EO of E. benthamii is the most potent in thwarting the infestation of Cimex lectularius. Additionally, all six EOs demonstrated antioxidant activity in the ABTS model. EOs of E. benthamii, E. dunnii, and E. grandis showed significant anti-inflammatory activities in experimental models.
Starvation Effects on Superworms: Implications in Identifying Plastic-Degrading Genes and Microbes
Authors: Kim Hong Rae , Suh Dong-Eun , Lee Sukkyoo , Choi Donggeon
Published: January 2024

To address the challenge of plastic waste, plastic-degrading insects have been gaining considerable attention as promising solutions. This study revealed that subjecting superworms to starvation triggers a stress response, altering both the transcriptome and microbiome. Stress responses have been observed in insects even when they ingest plastics; hence, incorporating starved insects as a control group can augment the precision of selecting genes and microorganisms implicated in plastic degradation. We used Starved and Bran-fed groups as controls and identified 42 genes and five bacteria that exhibited a common increase in superworms consuming polyethylene. This approach has the potential to improve the accuracy of identifying the genetic and microbial factors linked to plastic biodegradation.
Changes in social contact time following digital SARS-CoV-2 post-exposure notification: A retrospective case-control study at a US university
Authors: Citron Daniel , Loh Po-Shen , Yee Shannon , Bershteyn Anna
Published: January 2024

In the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic, digital contact tracing smartphone applications were developed for the purpose of reducing transmission by encouraging individuals to voluntarily quarantine after exposure. Privacy protocols used in many of these apps prevented longitudinal linkage of users’ contact network data, making it impossible to observe whether users reduced social contact following digital exposure notification. We used anonymous data from one particular app deployment, which used alternative privacy measures and retained longitudinal interaction data, to evaluate changes in the users’ time in proximity to other users after digital exposure notification. We analyzed a dataset of the anonymous app users in a US university community January − March 2021, before COVID-19 vaccines were widely available. Users provided consent for their anonymous data to be used for research. We conducted pre-post analysis of contact time with other users before and after using the app to self-report being a positive COVID-19 case, and before and after exposure notification by the app. We further conducted a retrospective case-control study by matching users who did and who did not receive exposure notification based on having similar contact time with other users prior to notification. In pre-post analysis, we found that users who reported being a positive case to the app reduced their total contact time with others by 29% (p = 0.002) in the 7-day period immediately after time of the report vs. the 7-day period before the time of the report. However, we observed no statistically significant change in contact time before vs. after exposure notification. We also observed no statistically significant difference in contact time compared to matched controls who received no notification. Our findings suggest that digital contact tracing app users affiliated with this US university did not reduce contact with others after receiving exposure notification. Our study provides one of the first rigorous evaluations of the effectiveness of digital exposure notifications during a time when communities were reliant on non-pharmaceutical interventions to reduce disease spread.
Melamchi Extreme Flood in Response to Climate Change in the Central Himalaya of Nepal
Authors: Baniya Binod , Tang Qiuhong , Adhikari Tirtha Raj , Zhao Gang , Haile Gebremedhin Gebremeskel , Sigdel Madan , He Li
Published: January 2024

Climate change induced extreme precipitation and the associated rise in temperature have led to catastrophic floods. A flood occurred in the Melamchi River on 15 June and recurred on 31st July, 2021 in Nepal. This study has investigated these extreme flood events and their close nexus with climate. The available daily and hourly precipitation, temperature, snow depth and discharge data were analyzed. The regional flow during both flood events were estimated using 1-D hydraulic HEC-HMS model and the correlation among rainfall to the runoff and temperature with snow water equivalent were examined. The snow water equivalent was converted to the stream flow of the river. Result show that the Melamchi region found an average annual rainfall of 2610mm during 1992–2021. Specifically, Shermathang and Tarkeghang has observed the highest daily average rainfall of 26.8mm and 39.2mm during the first and 61.4mm and 66.6mm during the second flood event, respectively. The discharge found at the Melamchi Bazar was at 2893m3/s and 1105 m3/s in the first and second events respectively in which Kiwil, Chanaute and Melamchi were highly contributed. The peak 10m interval flood discharge during the second event at Nakote was found 285 m3/s. The daily average discharge of Bhemathang was 357m3/s and 76m3/s on both events, respectively. The rainfall and runoff at the Nakote station are poorly correlated while snow water equivalent and temperature showed positive correlation during summer which indicates melting of the snow. In response to summer temperature increased, SWE and snow depth were decreased by melting. The snowmelt contribution to discharge was found 9.68m3/s in the Melamchi River during the Summer season. The daily average snow water equivalent of the upper basin was found 672 mm which are very potential to melt out in response to increased temperature. The finding showed that precipitation is the main climatic driver while temporary damming and increasing temperature also contributes to the timing and magnitude of the of the Melamchi flood.
Computational screening of sodium solid electrolytes through unsupervised learning
Authors: Kim Kyeongsu , Park Damdae , Chung Wonsuk , Min Byoung Koun , Lee Ung , Yu Seungho
Published: January 2024

All-solid-state Na-ion batteries have emerged as alternatives of all-solid-state Li-ion batteries owing to the global abundance of Na element. However, the attempts to seek a commercially viable Na-ion solid-state electrolyte (SSE) are challenging due to the relatively poor understanding of the structures which are effective for conducting Na-ion compared to Li-ion SSE. In this study, unsupervised machine learning is performed to reveal the major characteristics of possible Na-ion SSEs. The descriptor vector that consists of 180 quantitative structure-properties for 12,670 Na-ion contained SSE structures was utilized as training data for the unsupervised clustering via the hierarchical density-based spatial clustering of applications with noise. The resulted clusters identified 12 structure groups including experimentally proven Na-ion superconductor ones such as NASICONs and thiophosphates. The post hoc analysis of the clusters reveals that the structure groups with high conductivity shares the similar characteristics implying the existence of mobility ion channels and the weak interactions between Na-ions and the proximate atoms. The ab initio molecular dynamics simulation results are presented to confirm the promising Na-ion SSE group shows characteristic tendencies in Na ion diffusivity distinguishable from other groups. The Na-ion SSEs map provided in this study will serve as fundamental guidelines to develop novel Na-ion SSEs for all-solid-state Na-ion batteries
Integrative analysis of ferroptosis-related genes and immune infiltration in peri-implantitis
Authors: Wang Zhongchao , Wang Guangping , Wang Jinghan , Shi Liang , Xiao Weiwei , Ma Yuxi , Li Mingxia , Fan Liyuan
Published: January 2024

Background Peri-implantitis (PI） is a common complication of dental implants that can result in implant failure. The study aims to identify genes related to PI and Ferroptosis, analyze relevant molecules in related pathways, and perform immune infiltration analysis, with the goal of investigating the classification of PI and creating a diagnostic model using its common genes.
Methods The study first identified Ferroptosis-related genes (FRGs) by downloading datasets GSE33774 and GSE57631 and intersecting them with the FRGs set. Enrichment analysis, including Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and Gene Set Variation Analysis (GSVA), was conducted to compare enrichment pathways in the Control team and the PI team. Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was then used to search for genes and build logistic regression models, Support Vector Machine (SVM) models, and Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO) regression models. A diagnostic model of PI composed of three genes HLF, PLIN2, and MAP1LC3A was obtained. The study utilized periodontal samples from patients with normal periodontal health and those with peri-implantitis to identify significant differences in the gene MAP1LC3A between the normal team and the PI team, further verifying this clinical correlation of FRHGs.
Results The calibration curves of the diagnostic model showed close results, indicating better and more accurate performance. Immune cells exhibited a strong negative connection with one of the FRHGs——MAP1LC3A in both highly and low-risk categories of PI. Additionally, the FRHGs PLIN2 and HLF had strong positive and negative correlations with immune cells called monocytes, respectively. Two categories of PI, Cluster1 and Cluster2, were determined by the transcript levels of FRHGs in PI samples from the GEO Combined Datasets.
Conclusion This study identified FRGs linked to PI and established a diagnostic model (HLF, PLIN2, MAP1LC3A). The accurate model revealed immunological characteristics of PI through immune infiltration analysis. Transcription levels of FRHGs classified PI samples into Cluster1 and Cluster2, enabling personalized treatment plans. Significant transcription difference of MAP1LC3A gene between normal and PI groups suggests its potential as a diagnostic biomarker. Integrating immune infiltration analysis offers new insights for PI research, enhancing understanding of its molecular mechanisms and targeted interventions.
Profiling the gut and oral microbiota of hormone-receptor positive, HER2-negative metastatic breast cancer patients receiving pembrolizumab and eribulin
Authors: Robinson Stephen , Teng nancy , Malfettone Andrea , Dalby Matthew , Kiu Raymond , Seki David , Robinson Tim , Gion María , Bermejo Begoña , Pérez-García José , Prat Aleix , Vázquez Raúl , Llombart-Cussac Antonio , Curigliano Giuseppe , Schmid Peter , Barroso-Sousa Romualdo , Mancino Mario , Shimizu Eileen , Rodríguez-Morató Jose , Mina Leonardo , Hall Lindsay , Cortés Javier
Published: January 2024

Changes occurring in host-associated microbial communities (i.e., the microbiota) may modulate responses to checkpoint blockade immunotherapy. We previously showed that anti-programmed cell death protein 1, pembrolizumab, plus microtubule-targeting chemotherapy, eribulin, has encouraging antitumor activity in previously pre-treated hormone receptor (HR)-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative metastatic breast cancer patients in the KELLY phase II study (NCT03222856). Faecal (58) and saliva (67) samples were prospectively collected at baseline, after three treatment cycles, and end of treatment from a subset of 28 patients included in this trial. Shotgun metagenomic and 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid gene amplicon sequencing, and bioinformatics and statistical approaches were used to characterize faecal and oral microbiota profiles. Overall, treatment did not cause significant gut or oral microbiota perturbations, indicating limited drug-related microbial toxicity. Dominant gut microbiota genera included Bacteroidesand Faecalibacterium, with a common oral microbe, Prevotella, also present. Several typical oral microbes i.e., Prevotella and Streptococcus, were observed in both saliva and faecal samples, suggesting potential translocation along the oral-gut axis. Further analysis appeared to show that clinical benefit was driven, in part, by gut-associated Bacteroides fragilis and baseline oral-associated Streptococcus with an abundance ≥40%. We also observed that cell-free supernatant from Bacteroides fragilis NCTC 9343 stimulated lactate dehydrogenase release, in a dose-dependent manner from the MCF-7 (HR-positive/HER2-negative) breast cancer cell line. These data suggest that certain gut and oral microbiota members influence efficacy of new combinatory anti-breast cancer therapies, which may in part be mediated via microbial metabolites.
Mathematical Modeling Insights into Improving CAR T cell Therapy for Solid Tumors: Antigen Heterogeneity and Bystander Effects
Authors: Sison Rockford , Kara Erdi , II Reginald McGee , jackson tracy , Jones Chartese
Published: January 2024

As an adoptive cellular therapy, Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-cell (CAR T-cell) therapy has shown remarkable success in hematological malignancies but only limited efficacy against solid tumors. Compared with blood cancers, solid tumors present a series of challenges that ultimately combine to neutralize the function of CAR T-cells. These challenges include, but are not limited to, antigen heterogeneity - variability in the expression of the antigen on tumor cells, as well as trafficking and infiltration into the solid tumor tissue.
A critical question for solving the heterogeneity problem is whether CAR T therapy induces bystander effects, such as antigen spreading. Antigen spreading occurs when CAR T-cells activate other endogenous antitumor CD8 T cells against antigens that were not originally targeted. In this work, we develop a mathematical model of CAR T-cell therapy for solid tumors that considers both antigen heterogeneity and bystander effects. Our model is based on in vivo treatment data that includes a mixture of target antigen-positive and target antigen-negative tumor cells. We use our model to simulate large cohorts of virtual patients to better understand the relationship involving bystander killing. We also investigate several strategies for enhancing bystander effects, thus increasing CAR T-cell therapy's overall efficacy for solid tumors.
Decoding phenological stages and polyamine polymorphism to understand the resilience of Alternanthera spp. for enhanced management strategies
Authors: Gautam Anu , Mishra Rohit , Tantwai Keerti , Dixit Anil , Pawar Deepak , Choudhary Vijay , Kharbikar Lalit Laxman
Published: January 2024

This research delineates the phenological growth stages of Alternanthera species, showcasing variations influenced by seasons and geographic locations. Our study tracked distinct life cycles in A. paronychioides across diverse seasons and in A. sessilis from different locations, revealing intriguing disparities in certain growth stages. Notably, the vegetative and reproductive phases, marked by BBCH code stages 0–1 and 5–9 respectively, exhibited distinct transitions in these species. Germination, leaf development, flowering, fruit development, and senescence stages unveiled stark differences across seasons in pot experiments. However, field experiments showcased uniformity in growth stages, except flowering, irrespective of varied geographical origins, emphasizing the influence of environmental factors, particularly temperature and moisture, over geographic distinctions. Further exploration into the polymorphism of polyamine (PA) metabolism genes uncovered intriguing associations with growth stages. The spermidine synthase (SPDS) gene demonstrated consistent polymorphism, implying its involvement throughout vegetative and reproductive phases. Meanwhile, arginine decarboxylase (ADC) and caffeic acid O-methyltransferase (COMT) genes displayed heightened polymorphism during reproductive stages, possibly indicating stress tolerance during these critical phases. The insights gleaned from this comprehensive analysis not only enhance our understanding of Alternanthera species' growth dynamics but also propose tailored herbicide strategies targeting specific growth stages based on PA metabolism. These findings offer sustainable avenues for weed management while providing valuable contributions to agricultural practices and environmental regulation.
The effect of TiO 2 particles on corrosion properties of hot-dip zinc coating/Carbon steel
Authors: Eynali Ebrahim , Yousefpour Mardali , Habibolahzadeh Ali
Published: January 2024

The titanium oxide particles additives were used to improve the corrosion resistance of the galvanized coating at 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 wt. %. Then, the corrosion behavior, mechanical and physical properties of coating were determined using the electrochemical, hardness, bending, roughness, thickness, porosity, SEM, FESEM, and XRD. The results were revealed the reducing of current density of corrosion and increasing the polarization resistance. Furthermore. the reducing of grain size of galvanized coating was observed. As a result, the best result was achieved by adding the 0.3 wt. % of nano particles titanium oxide additive. But the addition of titanium oxide with micro size of particles has a negative effect on the corrosion resistance.
Design, synthesis, and biological and computational evaluation of novel oxindole derivatives as inhibitors of Aurora A Kinase and SARS-CoV-2 Spike/Host ACE2 Interaction
Authors: Eni Donatus B. , Cassel Joel , Namba-Nzanguim Cyril T. , Simoben Conrad V. , Tietjen Ian , Akunuri Ravikumar , Salvino Joseph M. , Ntie-Kang Fidele
Published: January 2024

Isatin (indol-2,3-dione), a secondary metabolite of tryptophan has been used as the core structure in the designation of several compounds that have been tested and identified as potent inhibitors of apoptosis, potential antitumor agents, anticonvulsants, and antiviral agents. In this work, several analogues of isatin hybrids have been synthesized and characterized, and their inhibitory activities established as inhibitors of both Aurora A kinase and SARS-CoV-2 spike/host ACE2 interactions. Amongst the synthesized isatin hybrids, compounds 6a – 6d, and 6m exhibited interesting Aurora A kinase inhibitory activity while compounds 6h and 6l showed interesting activity in blocking SARS-CoV-2 spike with the ACE2 protein. Compounds 6f, 6g, and 6i possessed both inhibitory activities. Pharmacophore profiling indicated that compound 6g, tightly fits Aurora A kinase and SARS-CoV-2 pharmacophore while 6d fits SARS-CoV-2 and 6l Aurora A kinase. This work is a proof of concept that most existing cancer drugs possess antiviral properties. Molecular modeling showed that the active compound for each protein adopted different binding modes, hence interacting with a different set of amino acid residues in the binding site. For the Aurora A kinase inhibitors, it was shown that the important residues for binding were Leu139, Ala213, Lys162 and Glu211. The weaker activities against spike/ACE2 could be explained by the small sizes of the ligands that fail to address the important interactions for binding to the angiotensin II receptor site.
Growth in weight during the first year of life among the tribal of Northeast India and its comparison to NCHS growth standards
Authors: Evelyn Ngaithianven
Published: January 2024

Objectives
To determine the longitudinal growth and weight of tribal infants in Northeast India and compare their growth with CDC/NCHS growth standards.
Materials and methods
Basic data were obtained for 219 infant (114 boys and 105 girls) and maternal pairs belonging to the Paite ethnic group of Manipur, Northeast India. The data for the present study were collected from November 2010 to February 2012 from hospitals and maternity clinics. The required formal consent was obtained from mothers who were willing to participate in the study as well as from the authorities of the hospitals and maternity clinics. The ethical issues of concern were considered, and the study was approved by the Department of Anthropology, Panjab University, Chandigarh, India. The mothers included in the study were those who achieved full- term pregnancy. Maternal weights were measured after admission to the hospital before delivery. The newborns were measured within 24 hours of birth. All the measurements were handled independently by the researcher. Thereafter, each infant was measured at monthly intervals up to the age of 12 months, with strict adherence to ± 3 days at each age, by paying house visits.
Results
The mean weights of the babies at birth were 3.14 kg (girls) and 3.24 kg (boys), and at the 12th month, the mean birth weights for girls and boys were 9.40 kg and 9.94 kg, respectively. The mean weights of boys were significantly greater than those of girls throughout the study period. The maximum increase in mean weight was observed from birth to 1 month in both sexes. A comparison of correlation values at birth and 12 months revealed a greater number of correlations between mothers’ and infants’ anthropometric measurements at birth than at 12 months of age. Compared with those of the CDC/NCHS, the weight growth of the Paite infants fared slightly below the international standards.
Conclusion
Body growth was much more rapid during the first 6 months than during the latter half of life. Furthermore, maternal weight gain in the 9th month of pregnancy had a strong and significant influence on the growth of infants throughout the first year of life. Since mother-infant pairs are extremely beautifully and naturally entwined, close monitoring of mothers during pregnancy can aid in the overall growth and development of a child throughout his or her entire life.