bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Environmental Constraints for Intelligent Internet of Deep-Sea/Underwater Things Relying on Enterprise Architecture Approach
Authors: AOUN Charbel Geryes , MANSOUR Noura , DORNAIKA Fadi , LAGADEC Loic
Published: March 2024

Through the use of Smart Sensor Networks (SSN), Marine Observatories (MO) provide continuous ocean monitoring. Deployed sensors may not perform as intended due to the heterogeneity of SSN devices’ hardware and software when combined with the Internet. Hence, SSN are regarded as complex distributed systems. As such, SSN designers will encounter challenges throughout the design phase related to time, complexity, sharing diverse domain experiences (viewpoints), and ensuring optimal performance for the deployed SSN. To this end, we describe in this article how we extended our previously proposed ArchiMO meta-model and design tool by extending an Enterprise Architecture Framework based on the ArchiMate Modeling Language. This extension proposes the incorporation of new Underwater Environmental Constraints (UEC) for SSN in ArchiMO which is coupled with the fusion of sensors with Artificial Intelligence. This serves as the basis for generating a new version of our ArchiMO design tool, which incorporates the new added constraints and invokes the AI created Database. To illustrate our proposal, we use the newly generated ArchiMO to create a model in the MO domain. Furthermore, we use our self-developed domain-specific model compiler to produce the relevant simulation code. Throughout the design phase, our approach contributes to handle and control the uncertainties and variances of the provided quality of service that may occur during the performance of the SSN, hence reducing the design activity’s complexity and time. It provides a way to share the different viewpoints of the designers in the domain of SSN.
1,4-Diiodotetrafluorobenzene 3,5-Di-(Pyridin-4-Yl)-1,2, 4-Thiadiazole
Authors: Podda Enrico , Pintus Anna , Lippolis Vito , Isaia Francesco , Slawin Alexandra M. Z. , Carpenter-Warren Cameron L. , Woollins J. Derek , Aragoni Maria Carla
Published: March 2024

The reactivity of 3,5-di-(pyridin-4-yl)-1,2,4-thiadiazole (L1) with 1,4-diiodotetrafluorobenzene (1,4-DITFB) was explored and the halogen-bonded 1:1 co-crystal (1) was successfully isolated and structurally characterized.
Compost-Derived Bacterial Communities Offer Promise as Organic Biocontrol Agents against Meloidogyne javanica and Promote Plant Growth in Tomato
Authors: Karanastasi Eirini , Kotsantonis Vassileios , Pantelides Iakovos S.
Published: March 2024

Meloidogyne nematodes, commonly known as root-knot nematodes, pose a considerable threat to crop yields, resulting in significant economic losses due to their intricate biology and limited control methods. In line with the European Union's focus on promoting organic farming and soil health to encourage sustainable agricultural practices, this study explores the efficacy of two characterized bacterial communities obtained from compost, namely SynCom1 and SynCom2, against Meloidogyne javanica in tomato plants. Through pot experiments, it is demonstrated that both bacterial communities effectively suppress nematode reproduction and root infections while simultaneously enhancing various growth parameters in tomatoes. These findings underscore the potential of synthetic bacterial communities as promising tools for organic or integrated pest management, thereby supporting sustainable agricultural practices and contributing to improved crop yields.
Improving Quality on Indonesia Curriculum Management: Reactualizing Total Quality Management as Methods
Authors: Rahmanto Muhammad Arifin , Ramadhan Alif Rizky
Published: March 2024

This research is a analysis of some of the problems that arise in efforts to improve quality in curriculum management in Indonesia. Where, the system is still different between one region and another. Therefore, a concept that is deeply rooted and has proven its use in education is needed to be applied in Indonesia. So this paper offers TQM as a quality tool that can be used thoroughly in Indonesia. This research uses a qualitative approach with a descriptive-analytical approach. From the results of the paper, it can be concluded that the system developed by TQM can unify the methods of assessment and quality improvement in curriculum management.
Highlights:

Standardization: TQM facilitates uniformity in assessment and quality enhancement methods.
Adaptability: TQM offers flexibility to accommodate diverse regional needs within a standardized framework.
Systemic Integration: Implementing TQM can unify curriculum management practices across different regions in Indonesia.

Keywords: Obstacle, Practicum, Science, Elementary School
Method for predicting ultra-short-term wind speed and direction at emergency well site
Authors: Pan Zhao , Liang Haibo , Li Jinyun
Published: March 2024

In order to protect the safety of emergency rescue personnel and improve the speed of well control emergency rescue, it is necessary to know the ultra-short-term wind speed and direction time series of the well field in the next 15 minutes in advance. In this paper, the 0-1 test method is used to calculate the chaotic properties of the ultra-short-term wind speed and direction in the well field, and then the Hurst index is used to calculate the predictability of the ultra-short-term wind speed and direction in the well field. The Seagull Optimization Algorithm (SOA) is used to optimize the four hyper-parameters of the Echo State Network (ESN) and to train the network output weight matrix, so that the ultra-short-term wind speed and direction in the well field can be predicted from chaotic time series of the three kinds of terrain of the well field at different time scales. Among the three terrains, the MSE of the ultra-short-term wind speed in the well field valley and the ultra-short-term wind direction in the well field mountain are the smallest, which are 0.0215 and 1.787, respectively. The experimental results show that the SOA-ESN method has a good prediction effect on the chaotic time series of the ultra-short-term wind speed and direction, and can provide a new technical support for speeding up the well control emergency rescue.
Identification of inheritance and genetic loci responsible for wrinkled fruit surface phenotype in chili pepper (Capsicum annum) by quantitative trait locus analysis
Authors: Ahmed Nahed , Matsushima Kenichi , Nemoto Kazuhiro , Kondo Fumiya
Published: March 2024

The phenotypes of chili pepper (Capsicum annuum) fruit are sometimes characterized by having either smooth or wrinkled surfaces, both of which are commercially important. However, as the inheritance patterns and loci responsible have not yet been identified, it is difficult to control fruit surface traits in conventional chili pepper breeding. To obtain new insights into these aspects, we attempted to clarify the genetic regulation mechanisms responsible for the wrinkled surface of fruit from the Japanese chili pepper ‘Shishito’ (C. annuum). First, we investigated the segregation patterns of fruit-surface wrinkling in F2 progeny obtained from crosses between the C. annuum cultivars ‘Shishito’ and ‘Takanotsume’, the latter of which has a smooth fruit surface. The F2 progeny exhibited a continuous variation in the level of wrinkling, indicating that the wrinkled surface in ‘Shishito’ was a quantitative trait. To identify the responsible loci, we performed quantitative trait locus (QTL) analysis of the F2 progeny using restriction site-associated DNA sequencing data obtained in our previous study. The results showed that two significant QTLs (Wr11 and Wr12) were newly detected on chromosome 11 and 12, which explained 13.0 and 57.0% of the genetic variance, respectively. We then investigated the genetic effects of these QTLs using molecular markers. The findings showed that the levels of wrinkling in the F2 progeny could mostly be explained by the independent additive effects of the ‘Shishito’ allele in Wr12. This locus was therefore considered to be a useful genomic region for controlling fruit surface traits in the chili pepper.
Evolutionary Behaviors of Straw-Reinforced Slurry for Sustainable Management of Dredging Sediment: Rheological and Fertility Properties
Authors: Qiu Chengchun , Xu Liwei , Geng Weijuan , Xu Guizhong , Zhang Dan
Published: March 2024

This study evaluates the potential of using rice straw waste as a sustainable alternative for managing the dredge sediment. The rice straw was used to reinforce the dredge slurry to realize “treating the wastes with wastes”. The dredge slurry could be relocated with enhanced rheological properties or reclaimed cultivable land by in-situ management. In this framework, the rheological and fertility properties of straw-reinforced dredge slurry were investigated with a 90-day degradation period. The increased liquid limit and fine content were observed regardless of the straw content and degradation time, and a decreased slump flow and increased dynamic viscosity were obtained after the addition of straw. Nutrients, including SOC, TN, P, and K, increase over time after straw reinforcement, suggesting effective land reclamation by straw blending. The increases were abrupt in the first 14 days, followed by a gently increasing rate. Soil pH decreases over time to the range more suitable for planting. Results suggest that effective straw reinforcement enhances the rheological properties for relocating and improves the soil fertility for in-situ tillage. This study supplements the societal image of dredge materials and waste straws in engineering and environmental applications.
An impermeable copper surface monolayer with high-temperature oxidation resistance
Authors: Jeong Se-Young , Kim Su Jae , Lee Yousil , Kim Young-Hoon , Yang Sang-Hyeok , Kim Seon , Jung Min-Hyoung , Kim Young-Min , Lamichhane Bipin , Regmi Binod , Kim Seong-Gon , Jang Jae Hyuck , Jeong Hu Young , Seong Maeng-Je , Choi Hak Soo
Published: March 2024

Despite numerous efforts involving surface coating, doping, and alloying, maintaining surface stability at high temperatures without compromising intrinsic properties has remained challenging. Here we present a groundbreaking method to address the accelerated oxidation of metals like Cu, Ni, and Fe at temperatures exceeding 200 °C. Inspired by the concept that oxygen (O) itself could effectively obstruct the pathway of O infiltration, the study achieved a significant breakthrough by immobilizing the blocking O. Through extensive calculations considering various elements (C, Al, Si, Ge, Ga, In, and Sn) to anchor O on Cu surfaces, Si emerged as the optimal element. The theoretical findings were validated through systematic sputtering deposition experiments. The introduction of anchoring elements to reinforce Cu–O bonds enabled the formation of an atomically thin barrier on the Cu surface, rendering it impermeable to O even at high temperatures, while preserving its intrinsic conductivity. This remarkable oxidation resistance, facilitated by the impermeable atomic monolayer, opens exciting opportunities for researchers and industries to overcome limitations associated with the use of oxidizable metal films.
Cholesterol-lowering medications and sarcopenia: Large cross- sectional Study ：NHANES 2011-2014
Authors: Gong Wei , Liu Tingting , Li Jie
Published: March 2024

Objective
Cholesterol-lowering medications, especially statins, are widely prescribed for primary and secondary prevention of cardiovascular diseases. The association between those medications and sarcopenia has garnered attention and remains a topic of contention. Our aim is to investigate whether cholesterol-lowering medications are a risk factor for sarcopenia.
Methods
We utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database, extracting data from the 2011–2014 survey cycles. By constructed univariate and multivariate regression models, we elucidated the relationship between the X variable and the Y variable. By conducted predictive models by the ROC curve to assess the average predictive value based on AUC.
Results
The ratio of usage of cholesterol-lowering medication showed a significant difference between the sarcopenia group and non-sarcopenia group (77 (25.0%) vs. 396 (12.0%), p < 0.001), but when further analyzing the subgroups of obese and non-obese individuals, this difference disappeared. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis BMI demonstrated a significant and independent impact on sarcopenia (OR = 1.13, 95%CI 1.01–1.27, p = 0.036). The ROC curve analysis of the model incorporating age, grip strength, and BMI as predictors yielded an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.7433.
Conclusion
There is no direct correlation between cholesterol-lowering medications and sarcopenia. Instead, obesity emerges as an independent risk factor for sarcopenia. Additionally, the combination of BMI, age, and grip strength demonstrates good predictive value for identifying the risk of sarcopenia in clinical patients.
Effects of self-monitoring physical activity with wearable activity trackers on perceived joint function and health-related quality of life in people with hip and knee osteoarthritis: A secondary analysis of a cluster-randomised clinical trial
Authors: Östlind Elin , Eek Frida , Stigmar Kjerstin , Hansson Eva Ekvall
Published: March 2024

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) often leads to pain and functional limitations, impacting work and daily life. Physical activity (PA) may reduce pain and functional limitations but individuals with OA tend to be insufficiently active. Wearable activity trackers (WATs) offer a novel approach to promote PA. The aim of this secondary analysis was to examine the effects of self-monitoring PA with a WAT on perceived joint function and health-related quality of life in people with hip and knee OA.
Method: A two-armed cluster-randomized controlled trial (C-RCT) was conducted in southern Sweden including 160 individuals with hip or knee OA. The participants were cluster-randomized to a Supported Osteoarthritis Self-management Program (SOASP) with the addition of self-monitoring PA using a commercial WAT for 12 weeks (n =86), or only the SOASP (n =74). The outcomes include perceived joint function measured with HOOS/KOOS and health-related quality of Life (HRQoL) measured with EQ-5D-3L index and EQ VAS. Participants responded to the questionnaires at baseline and at follow-up after 3, 6 and 12 months. Statistical analyses involved linear mixed models, ANCOVA and paired t-test.
Results: Participants with data from baseline and at least one follow-up were included in the analyses (n =124). The analyses showed no statistically significant differences in changes between the groups in perceived joint function or HRQoL throughout the study period. Both groups showed improvements in pain and symptoms, but the changes were small.
Conclusion: The addition of WAT-use to the SOASP did not have any effect on perceived joint function or HRQoL. The participants’ relatively high baseline scores, high initial PA levels and the uniform step goal might have influenced the outcome of this study. We suggest that future WAT-interventions for people with OA apply a more person-centered approach with individualised goals to help optimise PA.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03354091. Registered 15/11/2017.
Identify bile acids metabolism-related biomarkers and prognostic factor in intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Li Rong , Tuo Shuyue , Lu Hongwei , Huang Lanxuan , Jiang Wei , Zhao Xiangju , Wei Fujuan , Bian Yuan , Xu Meng
Published: March 2024

Background
Researches have shown that bile acids (BAs) is related to many tumors. However, the prognosis of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC) is poor. Therefore, this study explore biomarkers related to BAs metabolism and its regulatory mechanism in ICC.
Methods
TCGA-CHOL was downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas Program database. GSE107943, GSE26566, GSE32879 and GSE45001 were obtained from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. 57 bile acids metabolism-related genes (BARGs) were obtained. The candidate genes were obtained by difference analysis, KM survival analysis and machine learning. Next, independent prognostic factors were determined by univariate and multivariate analysis. Meanwhile, functional enrichment, immune infiltration and drug sensitivity analysis of biomarkers were performed, and the mechanism of biomarkers in ICC was explored. Finally, the expression levels of biomarkers were verified in different datasets.
Results
40 differentially expressed BARGs (DE-BARGs) were obtained, among 18 genes were significantly associated with prognosis. CYP8B1, SCP2, SLC51A and SLCO1A2 were obtained as biomarkers, and SLCO1A2 was used as independent prognostic factor. Also, four biomarkers were correlated with Monocyte and Memory B cells, and seven immune cells were significantly associated with ICC prognosis. Besides, a ceRNA network was established, among SCP2 and SLCO1A2 were regulated through hsa-miR-543 and AC005261.1. Meanwhile, 61 drugs existed diversity between high and low expression groups of biomarkers. Finally, SCP2 and CYP8B1 were significantly expressed in the four data sets.
Conclusion
CYP8B1, SCP2, SLC51A and SLCO1A2 were identified as biomarkers related to BAs metabolism in ICC, which guided the clinical treatment of ICC patients.
Three-dimensional temperature field distribution of thin medium plate during finishing rolling and its effect on shape control
Authors: Ma Weishi , Li Hongbo , Kong Ning , Zheng Zhilong , Yu Hao , Mu Kai
Published: March 2024

In order to investigate the relationship between temperature distribution and shape control for thin medium plate, based on the production of a 3800 mm finishing mill, a high-precision temperature field prediction model of the rolled piece was established using the control volume heat balance method. The model is used to calculate the temperature field in the thickness, width, and length directions of the piece, and the results are used to analyze its effect on the shape control. By comparing the calculated results with the measured data, it can be seen that the deviation of the calculated results of this model was within 1%. Firstly, considering the large temperature difference in the thickness direction of the piece, an optimization coefficient of each pass for rolling force calculation was proposed to improve the accuracy. Secondly, the influence of the temperature difference in the width direction on the wedge shape of the piece is quantitatively analyzed, and the control standard of the temperature difference within 20 °C was proposed. Thirdly, the influence of the temperature difference in the length direction on the shape control of the piece is quantitatively analyzed, and the tail edge wave problem was solved by increasing the rolling temperature and limiting the length of the piece. The above research has been applied in production, and the shape quality of different specifications of plate has been improved.
Exploring Determinants of Hand Hygiene among Nursing Students: A Theory of Planned Behavior Approach
Authors: Maraş Gül Bülbül , Kocaçal Elem
Published: March 2024

Background
This study aims to assess the hand hygiene behavior of nursing students and identify the factors influencing this behavior through the "Scale for Assessment Hand Washing Behavior in the Frame of Theory of Planned Behaviour (SAHBTPB)".
Methods
This descriptive and cross-sectional study was undertaken at the nursing departments of the university's faculty of health sciences in İzmir, Turkey between 2021–2022. A total of 240 nursing students were recruited as participants for this study. Data were collected with the SAHBTPB. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, the Chi-square test, and correlation analysis in the SPSS 21.0 program (p < 0.05).
Results
Participation rate was 74.76%. The mean age of the students was 20.59 ± 1.59 years and 69.9% were woman. The nursing students’ total mean score of SAHBTPB was 147.5 ± 14.0 (min = 94; max = 176). There was a positively significant association between the total score and students' gender, graduate level, and hand hygiene education status. There was no significant difference in scale total score mean based on the existence of dermatological problems on the students' hands or their frequency of hand hygiene (p > 0.05).
Conclusion
The mean scores of nursing students on the SAHBTPB were found to be at a good level. The sub-dimension “intention” was identified as an effective factor in predicting the hand hygiene behavior of the students. The findings have the potential to positively impact nursing education by increasing awareness among students and offering valuable insights for nurses and educators.
Medical treatment of miscarriage using Misoprostol - a retrospective study
Authors: Meister Laura Madeleine , Künnemann Ines , Fettke Franziska , Lux Anke , Ignatov Atanas
Published: March 2024

Purpose
The treatment of early miscarriage with medication is effective and low in side effects. Nevertheless, no uniform dosage regimen has yet been established, nor has it been possible to determine whether previous pregnancies and births with their respective modes of delivery play a role in the effectiveness of Misoprostol.
This study aimed to find predictive parameters for successful treatment with Misoprostol in early miscarriage.
Methods
In a retrospective study at the OVG University Women's Hospital, records of patients with early miscarriage and medical treatment using Misoprostol from 2018-2021 were reviewed for this purpose. The need for a curettage subsequent to treatment was scored as a parameter of failure. The data was analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Science Version 28.0 (SPSS). The significance level was set to 0.050.
Results
We found that successful therapy with misoprostol was seen in 86% (n=114). 14% (n=20) of the patients had curettage after taking Misoprostol as advised. Out of 156 women, 19% (n=30) reported mild side effects, with nausea as the leading one (12.2% (n=19)).
Significance was found comparing the measurement of double endometrial stripe thickness after the second cycle of Misoprostol in women with and without curettage after medical treatment (exact value two-sided 0.012 at p<0.05).
Conclusion
Our results indicate that treatment of early miscarriage in the first trimester with Misoprostol is effective and has few side effects. The measurement of the endometrial stripe thickness after the second cycle of Misoprostol via transvaginal ultrasound could present a predictive marker during therapy.
The Triglyceride-glucose Index and Acute Kidney Injury Risk in Critically Ill Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Zhang Yi , Li Gang , Li Junjie , Jian Bohao , Wang Keke , Chen Jiantao , Hou Jian , Liao Jianbo , Zhou Zhuoming , Wu Zhongkai , Liang Mengya
Published: March 2024

Background: The triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, proven a reliable and simple surrogate of insulin resistance, has shown potential associations with cardiovascular outcomes and renal diseases. This research delved into the utility of the TyG index in predicting the risk of acute kidney injury (AKI) in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD), an area not extensively covered in existing literature.
Methods: A cohort of patients with CAD was recruited from the intensive care unit (ICU), and categorized into quartiles based on their TyG index. The primary outcome was AKI incidence, and the secondary outcome was renal replacement therapy (RRT). Scatterplot histograms, cox proportional hazards models, Kaplan-Meier survival curves, and restricted cubic splines were employed to investigate the association between the TyG index and the risk of AKI in patients with CAD.
Results: A total of 1,501 patients were enrolled in this study, predominantly male (61.56%), with a median age of 69.80 years. The AKI incidence was 67.22% among all patients, with the AKI stages increased with higher TyG levels (P for trend < 0.001). The Kaplan-Meier survival analyses demonstrated statistically significant differences in AKI incidence and RRT application throughout the entire cohort, stratified by the TyG index quartiles (P <0.001). Additionally, the restricted cubic spline analysis revealed a nearly linear association between the TyG index and the risk of AKI (Pfor non-linear = 0.507). Both multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses (HR 1.60; 95% CI 1.32-1.95; P <0.001) and multivariate logistic regression analyses (OR 2.46; 95% CI 1.71-3.56; P <0.001) showed that the elevated TyG index was significantly related to AKI incidence. The association between TyG index and the risk of AKI is more significant in patients without diabetes (HR 1.27; 95% CI 1.14-1.42; P <0.001), compared to patients with diabetes (Pfor interaction = 0.013).
Conclusions: In summary, the TyG index emerged as a reliable predictor for the occurrence of AKI in CAD patients during ICU stay. Furthermore, it is also anticipated to serve as a valuable indicator for non-diabetic patients in predicting the incidence of AKI.
Multidimensional and comprehensive single-cell analysis of the effect of PBK on immune infiltration in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Tiegang Cao , Huang Zhanghao , Li Houqiang , Sha Xinyu , Huang Minliang , Qiao Ge , Wang Gang , Wang Silin , Li Jing , Zhou Youlang , Shi Jiahai , Liang Qin
Published: March 2024

Phosphorylation is essential for tumor-induced angiogenesis, but how it affects angiogenesis remains unclear. We introduced phosphorylation-related genes from the lung adenocarcinoma dataset, screened out the most characteristic genes PBK through various machine learning methods, and repeatedly verified their survival data, mutation frequency, and clinical information. Subsequently, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of whole cancer based on lung adenocarcinoma, analyzed 33 cases of pan-cancer by GSEA enrichment, screened out a variety of angiogenesis-related pathways, and analyzed the correlation between related risk difference genes and pan-cancer PBK. Finally, we cultured HUVEC cells to simulate the tumor microenvironment and verify cell phenotypic experiments such as cell proliferation, migration, and cell cycle. Finally, it was proved that PBK can affect tumor angiogenesis and the differentiation of Treg cells, and the study flow chart is shown in Fig. 1 for reference only.
The mechanism of NF-κB-TERT feedback regulation of granulosa cell apoptosis in PCOS rats with follicular development disorder
Authors: Xue Haoxuan , Hu Zecheng , Liu Shun , Zhang Shun , Lei Xiaocan , Yang Wenqin , Li Jiasi , Yan Chulin , Zhang Jiaming , Zhang Jing
Published: March 2024

Background
The aim of this study is to investigate whether TERT mediates chronic inflammation and induces granulosa cell apoptosis by participating in the regulation of the NF-κB signaling pathway.
Methods
Letrozole combined with high-fat diet was used to establish a PCOS rat model, which was divided into Ctrl group and PCOS group. The expressions of inflammatory factors (NF-κB, IL-6,TNF-α), apoptotic factors (NF-κB, IL-6,TNF-α) and telomerase gene TERT in the ovaries were detected by IHC, qRT-PCR and WB. The serum testosterone level was detected by radioimmunoassay. Quantitative PCR was performed to measure relative telomere length. KGN cells were cultured in vitro and divided into blank control group, LPS treatment group, LPS + NF-kB inhibitor group and LPS + TERT inhibitor group. The cell function was analyzed. Results: Most of the rats in the PCOS group were in the estrus phase, indicating that the estrus cycle was disordered in the PCOS group. Body weight and serum testosterone levels were significantly increased in PCOS rats. HE staining showed that PCOS rats had a significant increase in ovarian cystic follicles and thinning of the granulosa cell layer. The expression levels of NF-κB and its downstream inflammatory factors, telomerase TERT and pro-apoptotic factors in the ovary of PCOS rats are significantly increased, while the expression levels of anti-apoptotic factors are significantly decreased. Telomere length in PCOS rats was also significantly higher than that in Ctrl rats. By correlation analysis, NF-κB and its downstream inflammatory factors and TERT were significantly correlated with apoptosis-related factors, and positively correlated with pro-apoptotic factors, and negatively correlated with anti-apoptotic factors. At the cellular level, the expression levels of NF-κB and its downstream inflammatory factors, telomerase TERT and pro-apoptotic factors were significantly increased, while the expression levels of anti-apoptotic factors were significantly decreased after LPS treatment, which were restored in the LPS + NF-kB inhibitor group and LPS + TERT inhibitor group.
Conclusion
TERT may participate in the regulation of NF-κB signaling pathway and activate the downstream inflammatory factors IL-6 and TNF-α to mediate the chronic inflammatory response and induce ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis in PCOS.
Analysis of glutamate-dependent mechanism and optimization of fermentation conditions for polyglutamic acid production by Bacillus subtilis SCP017-03
Authors: Wu Caiyun , Gou Yutao , Jing Shuai , Li Wei , Ge Fanglan , Li Jiao , Ren Yao
Published: March 2024

Poly-gamma-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) is mainly synthesized by glutamate-dependent strains in the manufacturing industry. Therefore, understanding glutamate-dependent mechanisms is imperative. In this study, we first systematically analyzed the response of Bacillus subtilis SCP017-03 to glutamate addition by comparing transcriptomics and protein genomics. The introduction of glutamate substantially altered the gene expression within the central metabolic pathway of cellular carbon. Most genes in the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP), tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and energy-consuming phase of the glycolysis pathway (EMP) were down-regulated, whereas genes in the energy-producing phase of glycolysis and those responsible for γ-PGA synthesis were up-regulated. Based on these findings, the fermentation conditions were optimized and the γ-PGA production was improved by incorporating oxygen carriers. In a batch-fed fermentor with glucose, the γ-PGA yield reached 95.2 g/L, demonstrating its industrial production potential. This study not only elucidated the glutamic acid dependence mechanism of Bacillus subtilis but also identified a promising metabolic target for further enhancing γ-PGA production.
In silico bioprospecting of receptors for Oligoventin: an antimicrobial peptide isolated from spider eggs of Phoneutria nigriventer
Authors: Seif Elias Jorge Muniz , Junior Pedro Ismael da Silva
Published: March 2024

Background
Irresponsible and wholesale use of antimicrobial agents is the principal cause of the emergence of strains of resistant microorganisms to traditional drugs. Oligoventin is a neutral peptide isolated from spider eggs of Phoneutria nigriventer, with antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and yeast organisms. However, the molecular target and pathways of antimicrobial activity are still unknown. Thus, the aim of the present study is to prospect receptors associated with the antimicrobial activity of Oligoventin using in silico tools.
Methods
The PharmMapper server was used to prospect targets originating from microorganisms. Additionally, the PatchDock server was utilized to perform molecular docking between Oligoventin and the targets. Subsequently, the I-TASSER server was adopted to predict the ligand site. Finally, the docking results and predicted sites were compared with literature sites of each target.
Results
Twenty-two potential receptors for Oligoventin were identified. Among these, Enoyl-ACP reductase (Idpdb1lxc) and Thymidylate synthase ThyX (Idpdb 1O28) demonstrated superior interaction with the peptide, exhibiting co-localization between docked residues and literature sites. These enzymes play a crucial role in fatty acid and DNA biosynthesis in prokaryotes
Conclusion
Therefore, in silico results suggest that Oligoventin can impair fatty acid and DNA synthesis, thereby reducing microbial proliferation and causing microorganism death.
Nonlinear optimal control of heat pumps in electric vehicles
Authors: Rigatos Gerasimos , Siano Pierluigi , Cuccurullo Gennaro , Abbaszadeh Masoud
Published: March 2024

Heat pumps can be used for thermal management of electric vehicles (EVs) in a low-cost and environmental friendly manner. Heat pumps can exploit the heat that is diffused by the vehicle’s batteries so as to perform temperature control of the passengers cabin. A heat pump-based thermal management system of EVs has the dual objective of (a) stabilizing temperature in the passengers’ cabin at the desirable levels so as to ensure the passengers’ comfort and (b) stabilizing temperature at the batteries’ side so as to avoid degradation of the batteries power storage capacity and of their regenerative charging capability. So far nonlinear model predictive control (NMPC) methods have been mainly applied for the nonlinear optimal control problem of heat-pumps in EVs. In the present article a novel nonlinear optimal control method is proposed for solving the nonlinear optimal control problem of heat pumps. This method is computationally simple, has clear implementation stages and is of proven global stability. The dynamic model of the heat pump undergoes approximate linearization with the use of first-order Taylor series expansion and through the computation of the associated Jacobian matrices. Linearization takes place at each sampling instance, around a temporary operating point which is defined by the present value of the heat pump’s state vector and by the last sampled value of the control inputs vector. For the approximately linearized model of the heat pump an H-infinity stabilizing controller is designed. The feedback gains of the controller are computed through the solution of an algebraic Riccati equation, at each time-step of the control method. The global stability properties of the control scheme are proven through Lyapunov analysis. Moreover, to enable state estimation-based control, the H-infinity Kalman Filter is used as a robust observer. The method achieves fast and accurate tracking of reference setpoints under moderate variations of the control inputs.
Faith-based leaders’ perceptions on the implementation of programs to promote healthy lifestyles in churches in Barbados- a mixed-methods analysis
Authors: Sobers Natasha , Murphy Madhuvanti , Hassan Saria , Norville Katrina , Brathwaite-Graham Lisa , Hambleton Ian , Anderson Simon G , Lewis Kia , Ferguson Trevor
Published: March 2024

Background: There is a high burden of chronic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes in small island developing states (SIDS). SIDS governments have committed to a range of public health, healthcare, and fiscal measures to reduce this burden including community-based health education in collaboration with civil society organizations. We sought to explore perceived acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility of implementing self-management health programs in 20 faith-based organizations in the small island developing state of Barbados.
Methods: This was a concurrent mixed methods study - a quantitative online survey and a qualitative inquiry using semi-structured interviews. Acceptability, appropriateness and feasibility of the intervention were assessed using the following quantitative assessment tools: Acceptability of Intervention Measure (AIM), Intervention Appropriateness Measure (IAM) and Feasibility of Intervention Measure (FIM). Thirteen in-depth interviews were conducted virtually, recorded and transcribed verbatim. Transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis based on deductive codes from Proctor’s implementation outcomes definitions.
Results: From the 52 respondents of the survey, the median and interquartile ranges for the AIM, IAM and FIM scales were 16 (15-20), 16 (16-20) and 16 (15-17) (out of 20), respectively. We found high levels of acceptability, 82% (95% CI (69%, 95%)) of leaders indicating that health programs in churches met with their approval; and high levels of appropriateness- 90% (95% CI (80%, 100%)) indicating health programs in churches were “fitting” and “a good match”. Feasibility scores were lower, with 60% (95% CI (44%, 76%)) indicating that health programs in churches would be easy to use. In interviews, leaders expressed acceptance of healthy lifestyle programs in churches and described their appropriateness through alignment with church doctrines stating, “the body is the temple of God”. They felt that economic impacts from COVID-19 were likely to be a barrier to the success of programs. Leaders expressed the need for support from healthcare providers who are sensitive and respectful of church culture.
Conclusion: We found that health-based programs in churches align well with church doctrines, but the success of these programs will depend on establishing trust through the engagement of church-based champions, tailoring programming to include a biblical perspective and engaging entire households.
Cardiac symptoms associated with rheumatic fever in children who visited Damascus Hospital between 2013 and 2020
Authors: Alkheder Mohanned , Alabdullah Abdalhaleem , Nabulsi Ahmad
Published: March 2024

Background
In addition to assessing the clinical results and prognosis of patients with acute rheumatic fever treated in the Cardiology Clinic at Damascus Hospital, this study intends to ascertain the clinical usefulness of echocardiography (ECHO) in the diagnosis of acute rheumatic fever.
Methods and materials:
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 160 ARF (6–17) patients, with a mean age of 11.7 ± 2.3 years, 88/72 female and male diagnoses based on Jones criteria, who were monitored in the cardiology clinic at Damascus Hospital from October 2013 to December 2020.
Results
Of the 104 patients diagnosed with rheumatic heart disease (RHD), approximately 29.4% had subclinical carditis; in contrast, clinical carditis was frequently associated with chorea (39%) and polyarthritis (37.1%). Sixty-six percent of patients with rheumatic fever were found to be between the ages of 10 and 13; thirty-three percent (n = 50) reported having frequent arthralgia during the winter, and the most common associated symptoms were carditis + arthritis (35%) and carditis + chorea (19.4%). When it came to carditis sufferers, it was The aortic (50.6%) and mitral (63.8%) valves were the most commonly impacted, respectively. In cases diagnosed during and after 2015, the prevalence of subclinical carditis, arthralgia, and uniarthritis rose and 71 out of 104 individuals saw an improvement in their valvular heart disease result. Individuals with carditis (68.2%) Patients with clinical carditis and those who followed prophylactic treatment had a significantly higher rate of regression of heart valve symptoms over the course of around 7 years of follow-up compared to patients with subclinical carditis and those who did not follow prophylactic treatment.
Conclusion
We conclude that early prophylaxis can reduce the prevalence of adult RHD and complications, subclinical carditis is associated with the risk of permanent RHD, and nonadherence to secondary prophylaxis is significantly associated with recurrent ARF. Additionally, ECHO findings should be included in the diagnostic criteria for ARF. potential connected to it.
Tahadduts bi al-ni’mah Perspektif Quraish Shihab dalam Tafsir al-Misbah dan Relevansinya terhadap Pelaku Flexing
Authors: Labib Abdulloh
Published: March 2024

This article aims to answer about the fate of Flexing perpetrators, which have recently been so prevalent on social media platforms that have received a lot of comments and criticism as a whole. This phoneme is caused by the lack of a deep understanding of religious knowledge, especially those related to Tahadduts bi al-Ni’mah. In this article, it is intended to describe the issue of flexing within the scope of the interpretation of the Qur'an, which will focus on the perspective of Quraish Shihab in the interpretation of al-Misbah. This study provides an understanding that the phenomenon of flexing Quraish Shihab's perspective is a negative act because it is considered irrelevant to Islamic religious rules when applied to people's social life.
A RARE CASE OF APPENDICEAL INTUSSUSCEPTION
Authors:   Second Year Resident, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Saraf Nidhi , Dave Katha ,   Second Year Resident, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Rathva Hitesh ,   Third Year Resident, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Dalal Archana ,   Professor and Head of Unit, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Suthar Kalpit ,   Associate Professor, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Vaghela Sagar ,   Assistant Professor, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Patel Chintan ,   Second Year Resident, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Viajkhora Muhammed ,   Second Year Resident, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Patel Kinju ,   First Year Resident, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Khatri Dev ,   First Year Resident, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College., Damor Sunita ,   First Year Resident, General Surgery Department, Smt. NHL Municipal Medical College.
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Appendiceal intussusception is a very rare condition (0.01%) found in patients undergoing appendectomy. It happens when the appendix is pulled into itself or into the caecum. Endometriosis of the appendix is particularly a rare cause of appendiceal intussusception in the past 50 years, less than 30 cases have been reported in the literature. Clinical symptoms vary and some cases are asymptomatic. Case Presentation: A 25 years old, female presented with complaints of periumbilical pain for 4-5 days, 6-7 episodes of bilious vomiting and constipation for 3 days. On examination, the abdomen was soft, mild tenderness was present in the periumbilical region. Patient was stable clinically. Ultrasound abdomen showed possibility of Ileo-colic Intussusception and intramural fibroid and CECT abdomen was suggestive of ileo-ileal intussusception and multiple uterine fibroids. Patient underwent Exploratory Laparotomy. Appendiceal intussusception was found in the caecum. Appendix and a part of caecum were found thickened and gangrenous. Ileocaecal junction and rest of the bowels were normal. Patient underwent ileocaecal resection with primary anastomosis. Results: Histopathological report of specimen was consistent with findings of endometriosis of appendix with peri appendicular abscess and adenomatous changes in caecum. Conclusion: Appendiceal intussusception to the caecum caused by endometriosis of the appendix is a very rare(0.01%) condition and difficult to diagnose preoperatively. It is usually diagnosed intra-operatively. Appendiceal intussusception due to endometriosis can only be confirmed by histopathology.
LIFELONG LEARNING AND SOCIAL INCLUSION: AN ANALYSIS OF THE EFFECTS ON INDIVIDUAL EMPOWERMENT PROCESSES
Authors:   Graduate School, IIC University of Technology, Phnom Penh, Kingdom of Cambodia., Moch Enrico
Published: March 2024

The area of lifelong learning is becoming increasingly important both collectively and individually and is a key success factor for personal and social development. Awareness of lifelong learning also strengthens the possibility of increasing personal income and at the same time enabling a better quality of life. All of this leads to an improvement not only on an individual level, but also for society as a whole. Although lack of equitable educational opportunities to individuals may result into social inequalities, which require targeted measures to deal with these issues. The main objective of this research is to explain the relationship between lifelong learning and social inclusion. By assessing educational access and opportunities, the study aims to examine the impacts of lifelong learning on individual empowerment processes, and thereby address social inequalities in educational opportunities. This research adopts a comprehensive study design, in which a detailed literature review analysis with case studies will be considered. Several academic books, peer-reviewed journals, and other formal publications will be used for literature review, while official reports may be used to derive case studies. The thematic coding and content analysis will be used to analyse key trends, insights, and challenges identified through gathered qualitative data. As a whole, lifelong learning can become a tool to promote social inclusion by offering equitable educational opportunities to all population groups. Barriers to educational opportunities, such as ineffective division of lifelong learning and traditional education, financial constraints, geographical barriers, and more focus on certain category of workers, must be addressed.
DISEÑO DE CUESTIONARIOS EFECTIVOS EN INVESTIGACIÓN DE MERCADOS: ENFOQUE EN PREGUNTAS ABIERTAS VS CERRADAS
Authors: Calle García Aldrin Jefferson , Lino Muñiz Gabriela Yuleisy , Ruiz Mero Angel Gabriel , Guagcha Pincay Tangie Mayerli
Published: March 2024

El enfoque de esta investigación se dirige hacia el diseño de cuestionarios efectivos para la investigación de mercados utilizando preguntas abiertas y cerradas. Su objetivo principal fue evaluar la eficacia de preguntas abiertas y cerradas en términos de rapidez y facilidad en la gestión de datos con el fin de optimizar la recopilación. El estudio se realizó a través de un análisis minucioso de la literatura disponible sobre diseño de cuestionarios. Los resultados revelaron que la combinación estratégica de preguntas abiertas y cerradas en un cuestionario permite obtener una visión completa y detallada de las preferencias del consumidor, el tiempo necesario para analizar respuestas de preguntas cerradas es un 30% menor que para las preguntas abiertas. Sin embargo, el análisis exclusivo de preguntas cerradas puede perder matices cruciales. Según los datos recopilados, el uso equilibrado de preguntas abiertas y cerradas mejora la tasa de respuesta en un 15%, en comparación con cuestionarios que solo empleaban un tipo de pregunta. La investigación concluye que un enfoque híbrido en el diseño del cuestionario es crucial ya que las investigaciones de mercados que adoptan este enfoque han experimentado un 22% de mejora en la precisión de sus resultados articulados a los objetivos planteados. La complementariedad entre ambos tipos de preguntas es clave.
DISEÑO DE INVESTIGACIÓN DE MERCADOS PARA LA EVALUACIÓN DE LA SATISFACCIÓN DEL CLIENTE: MÉTODOS Y HERRAMIENTAS EFECTIVAS
Authors: Calle García Aldrin Jefferson , Conforme Merchan Yaritza Margarita , Magallanes Bueno Emily Lissette , Tejena Vargas Nayely Daniela , García Santana Mara Leandra
Published: March 2024

Este estudio está enfocado en el diseño de investigación de mercados para evaluar la satisfacción del cliente, revelando un enfoque integral y dinámico. El objetivo principal radica en comprender y responder a las expectativas del cliente, convirtiéndose en una estrategia esencial para el crecimiento y la sostenibilidad a largo plazo de cualquier empresa. La metodología analiza varios estudios previos, ofreciendo una combinación única de enfoques cuantitativos y cualitativos. En cuanto a los resultados, se destaca que las encuestas emergen como el método fundamental para recopilar datos, dado que las encuestas personales generan respuestas de más del 90%, a pesar de ser costosas, mientras que las encuestas telefónicas muestran índices de respuesta entre el 50% y el 60%, y las encuestas por correo ofrecen resultados del 3% al 15%. En conclusión, la implementación estratégica de métodos y herramientas no solo respalda decisiones informadas, sino que también impulsa mejoras específicas, fortaleciendo la relación empresa-cliente y cultivando la lealtad a largo plazo.