bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dual activity of Minnelide chemosensitize basal/triple negative breast cancer stem cells and reprograms immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment
Authors: Korkaya Hasan , Alkan Fulya Koksalar , Caglayan Ahmet , Alkan Hilmi , Benson Elayne , Gunduz Yunus , Sensoy Ozge , Durdagi Serdar , Zarbaliyev Elbrus , Dyson Gregory , Assad Hadeel , Shull Austin , Chadli Ahmed , Shi Huidong , Ozturk Gurkan
Published: February 2024

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) subtype is characterized with higher EMT/stemness properties and immune suppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Women with advanced TNBC exhibit aggressive disease and have limited treatment options. Although immune suppressive TME is implicated in driving aggressive properties of basal/TNBC subtype and therapy resistance, effectively targeting it remains a challenge. Minnelide, a prodrug of triptolide currently being tested in clinical trials, has shown anti-tumorigenic activity in multiple malignancies via targeting super enhancers, Myc and anti-apoptotic pathways such as HSP70. Distinct super-enhancer landscape drives cancer stem cells (CSC) in TNBC subtype while inducing immune suppressive TME. We show that Minnelide selectively targets CSCs in human and murine TNBC cell lines compared to cell lines of luminal subtype by targeting Myc and HSP70. Minnelide in combination with cyclophosphamide significantly reduces the tumor growth and eliminates metastasis by reprogramming the tumor microenvironment and enhancing cytotoxic T cell infiltration in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. Resection of residual tumors following the combination treatment leads to complete eradication of disseminated tumor cells as all mice are free of local and distant recurrences. All control mice showed recurrences within 3 weeks of post-resection while single Minnelide treatment delayed recurrence and one mouse was free of tumor. We provide evidence that Minnelide targets tumor intrinsic pathways and reprograms the immune suppressive microenvironment. Our studies also suggest that Minnelide in combination with cyclophosphamide may lead to durable responses in patients with basal/TNBC subtype warranting its clinical investigation.
Differential outcomes of lymph node dissection in treating lymph node basins of cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC)
Authors: Ramasenderan Nandinii , Halim Ahmad Sukari , Koh Khai Luen , Basiron Normala , Zain Mohammad Ali Mat
Published: February 2024

Background
Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma accounts for 20% of all non-melanoma skin cancer cases and is primarily observed in the head and neck region. In specific scenarios, a minority of cases may exhibit metastasis to the primary regional basin drainage. Our objective was to review our 7-year experience with lymph node dissection cases in cutaneous malignancies and assess the trend over time at a tertiary referral centre.
Method
The Plastic Reconstructive Surgery Department of Hospital Kuala Lumpur conducted a retrospective analysis on patients who were diagnosed with cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma and underwent lymph node dissection over a span of seven years. Fifty six of 124 cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma patients had their data recovered. Twelve participants had lymph node dissection surgery. This study documented subject prognoses and lymph node surgery performed.
Results
Nine men and 3 women comprised the 12-person cohort. The median age of diagnosis was 56.9 years, and the minimum follow-up was 5 years. Two of twelve patients had positive nodes, indicating cancer. According to the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, the first patient had two high-risk indicators, while the second had four. The initial patient manifested cutaneous metastasis, whereas the subsequent patient demonstrated nodal metastasis and ultimately succumbed to the ailment. A total of six patients received radiotherapy treatment. Our patient group exhibited a higher negative rate for complete lymph node dissection in cases of occult regional metastases.
Conclusion
The identified high-risk factors included the presence of a palpable lymph node, moderate degree of differentiation, and perineural involvement. The utilisation of sentinel lymph node biopsy and PET/CT imaging as supplementary measures in instances of occult lymph nodes may prove advantageous, however, further investigation is warranted.
Endoplasmic reticulum stress promotes hepatocellular carcinoma by modulating immunity: a study based on artificial neural networks and single-cell sequencing
Authors: Cheng Zhaorui , Wang Tong , Li Shuangmei
Published: February 2024

Introduction: Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is characterized by the complex pathogenesis, limited therapeutic methods, and poor prognosis. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) plays an important role in the development of HCC, therefore, we still need further study of molecular mechanism of HCC and ERS for early diagnosis and promising treatment targets.
Methods: In this study, differential analysis was used to find differential ERS-related genes (ERSRGs) associated with HCC. An artificial neural network (ANN) prediction model was constructed based on Random Forest (RF) and Support Vector Machine (SVM). The ESTIMATE algorithm was used to analyze the correlation between ERSRGs and the immune micro-environment. Single-cell sequencing was used to evaluate the role of ERSRGs in the tumor micro-environment. The effect of ERS-related core gene, the protein phosphatase 1 regulatory subunit 16A (PPP1R16A) on hepatoma cells was verified through cytological experiments.
Results: An ANN related to the ERS model was constructed based on SRPX, THBS4, CTH, PPP1R16A, CLGN, and THBS1. The area under the curve (AUC) value of this model in the training set was 0.979, and the AUC values in the three validation sets were 0.958, 0.936, and 0.970 respectively. Among the six ERSRGs, the mutation rate of PPP1R16A was the highest, characterized by gene copy amplification. The expression levels of the six ERSRGs were highly correlated with immune cell infiltration and immune-related pathways. The intercellular interactions showed that PPP1R16A could remodel the tumor micro-environment through signals pathway such as macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF)/CD74+CXCR4. Functional experiments showed that the expression of PPP1R16A was down-regulated after siRNA knockdown, which suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities of HCCLM3 and Hep3B cells in vitro.
Conclusion: This manuscript explored function and main molecular mechanism of ERS in HCC, and found that PPP1R16A probably paly an important role in the development of HCC. These findings may provide a new direction for the diagnosis and treatment of HCC.
Perceptions and Attitudes toward Cancer in an Eastern European Country: Longitudinal study
Authors: Geantă Marius , Cioroboiu Cosmina , Boată Adriana , Cucoș Bianca , Schitea Ruxandra , Jinga Viorel
Published: February 2024

Background Romania bears a substantial cancer burden, as evidenced by the incidence of 98,886 new cases and an estimated 54,486 fatalities in the year 2020. This places the nation among the top 10 European countries with regard to cancer-related mortality rates. The exacerbation of cancer mortality in Romania can be attributed primarily to deficiencies in the accessibility of cancer-related information, preventive measures, screening services and cutting-edge cancer treatments.Methods To assess citizen’s attitudes regarding cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, including personalized therapies, immune-oncology, and genomic biomarker testing, a longitudinal sociological investigation was undertaken across three panels of respondents in the years 2016, 2018, and 2020. Utilizing computer-assisted telephone interviewing (CATI) technology, the surveys were administered via telephone interviews. The sampling methodology employed probabilistic and multistratified techniques to ensure a comprehensive representation of the population.Results In 2020, our study revealed a declining trend in public perceptions regarding cancer prevention and curability compared to earlier years. Specifically, the proportion of respondents who believed cancer could be prevented decreased from 82% in the period spanning 2016 to 2018 to 78% in 2020. Similarly, the belief in the curability of cancer dropped from 74% in 2016 to 71% in 2020. Alarmingly, there was an upward trajectory in the percentage of individuals who held the conviction that cancer inevitably leads to death, rising from 44.9% in 2016 to 47.9% in 2020.Conclusions Cancer is a disease of the genome, but solutions should be identified at the societal level and co-created with citizens and patients.
Assessing Crop Vulnerability and Water-Saving Strategies under Climate Change: Does a Multiscale Analysis Always Add Value?
Authors: Gaddam Sai Jagadeesh , Sampath Prasanna Venkatesh
Published: February 2024

Understanding the impacts of climate change on agriculture is vital for developing effective water-saving strategies (WSS). This study presents a systematic approach to evaluate the performance of WSS at multi-spatial scales from 2020–2099 for the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Climate data from the EC-Earth3 model under three climate change scenarios: SSP126, SSP245, and SSP370, was used. First, the irrigation water requirements (IWR) were calculated using a soil water balance model at multiple scales. Then, the future vulnerabilities of the selected crops – paddy, groundnut, sugarcane, and maize were quantified by estimating the variability of IWR. Next, groundwater consumption was estimated under a Business-As-Usual (BAU) scenario, following which the water savings in drip irrigation strategy (DIS) and crop shift strategy (CSS) relative to BAU were calculated. Finally, a Water-saving Scale Factor was computed to capture the efficacy of WSS across scales. Findings reveal that groundnut and maize, though drought-resistant, have higher vulnerabilities compared to paddy and sugarcane - a trend that is more pronounced at finer than at coarser scales. Notably, DIS was found to be more effective at water-saving than CSS across scales and climate scenarios. For instance, the state-scale cumulative water savings for DIS is 28% (74.8 BCM), compared to 19% (50.8 BCM) for CSS. In conclusion, multiscale analysis of the efficiency of WSS indicates that a finer scale analysis makes little difference to DIS, but definitely adds value to CSS. Such insights could help policymakers optimize resources spent on devising water-saving strategies for the future.
Y-90 PET/MR imaging optimization with a Bayesian Penalized Likelihood reconstruction algorithm
Authors: Calatayud-Jordán José , Carrasco-Vela Nuria , Chimeno-Hernández José , Carles-Fariña Montserrat , Olivas-Arroyo Consuelo , Bello-Arqués Pilar , Pérez-Enguix Daniel , Martí-Bonmatí Luis , Torres-Espallardo Irene
Published: February 2024

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging after \(^{90}\) Y radioembolization is used for both lesion identification and dosimetry. Bayesian penalized likelihood (BPL) reconstruction algorithms are an alternative to ordered subset expectation maximization (OSEM) with improved image quality and lesion detectability. The investigation of optimal parameters for $^{90}$Y image reconstruction of Q.Clear, a commercial BPL algorithm developed by General Electric (GE), in PET/MR is a field of interest and the subject of this study. The NEMA phantom was filled at an 8:1 sphere-to-background ratio. Acquisitions were performed on a PET/MR scanner for clinically relevant activities between 0.7 - 3.3 MBq/ml. Reconstructions with Q.Clear were performed varying the \(\beta\) penalty parameter between 20 - 6000, the acquisition time between 5 - 20 min and pixel size between 1.56 - 4.69 mm. OSEM reconstructions of 28 subsets with 2 and 4 iterations with and without Time-of-flight were compared to Q.Clear with $\beta$ = 4000. Recovery coefficients (RC), their coefficient of variation (COV), background variability (BV), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) and residual activity in the cold insert were evaluated. Increasing $\beta$ parameter lowered RC, COV and BV, while CNR was maximized at $\beta$ = 4000; further increase resulted in oversmoothing. For quantification purposes, $\beta$ = 1000 - 2000 could be more appropriate. Longer acquisition times resulted in larger CNR due to reduced image noise. Q.Clear reconstructions led to higher CNR than OSEM. A $\beta$ of 4000 was obtained for optimal image quality, although lower values could be considered for quantification purposes. An optimal acquisition time of 15 min was proposed considering its clinical use.
A weighted multi-view clustering via sparse graph learning
Authors: zhou jie , Zhang Runxin
Published: February 2024

Multi-view clustering considers the diversity of di erent views and fuses these views to produce a more accurate and robust partition than single-view clustering. It is a key problem of multi-view clustering research to allocate each view reasonably based on its contribution value. In this paper, we propose a weighted multi-view clustering model via sparse graph learning to cope with allocation of di erent views. The mainly proposed the idea is to assign di erent view weights instead of equal view weights to learn a highquality shared similarity matrix for multi-view clustering. In our new proposed method, it can consider the clustering capacity heterogeneity of di erent views in fusion by assigning a weight for each view so that the each view special features are fully excavated, and improve the performance of multi-view clustering. As we all know, the high time cost is the main challenge of multi-view clustering algorithm. A signi cant advantage of our proposed algorithm is that it can directly obtain the model solution without the general Singular Value Decomposition or Eigenvalue Decomposition. And thus, the time consumption of the algorithm is reduced e ectively. Meanwhile, our model is proposed based on sparse graph, so that the outliers and noise in each view data are well handled and the robust of the algorithm is e ectively guaranteed. In addition, our proposed method can directly obtained the cluster indicators by imposing low rank constraints without any post-processing operations. Finally, numerous experimental results are conducted on four widely used benchmark datasets, and show that the performance of our algorithm is quite satisfactory.
Spatiotemporal distribution of different forms of sulfur in acid mine drainage and their relationships with environmental factors
Authors: Gao Man , Liu Guo
Published: February 2024

The production of acid mine drainage (AMD) involves oxidation of FeS2 to SO42−, during which a variety of intermediate sulfur forms (S2O32−, S0, SnO62−, SO32−) are generated. This study aimed to characterize the spatiotemporal distributions of different forms of these intermediates and their relationships to environmental factors, focusing on an abandoned pyrite mine area. Samples were collected from different water stages and the physicochemical factors were determined on site. High performance liquid chromatography, ion chromatography, and Illumina high-throughput sequencing were used to determine the distributions of iron and sulfur forms and the microbial community structure at each site. Pearson and Spearman correlation were used to analyze the relationships between the distributions of different forms of sulfur and environmental factors during the formation and migration of AMD. The results suggested that SO42− mainly originated from gypsum dissolution and oxidation of the coal mine and FeS2. The dry season was associated with lower water pH and temperature and higher DO and ORP. The maximum correlation coefficient between TFe and SO42− decay was 0.9308, which could be attributed to the formation of sulfate secondary iron-containing minerals. SO42− pollution decreased with increasing migration distance of AMD and showed seasonal variation closely related to precipitation and groundwater flow. The abundance and diversity of microbial community decreased with the production of AMD, mainly acidophilus and sulfur/iron-oxidizing bacteria. Ferrovum occupied an absolute dominant position in weakly acidic samples, and Acidibacter and Sphingomonas were not polluted. Neutral samples include Lachnospiraceae NK4A136 group, Ralstonia, Sinomonas, etc. pH and SO42− showed negative correlations with DO, temperature, and ORP, whereas the dominant strain Acidithiobacillus was positively correlated with SO42−. Increases in water temperature and ORP promoted the transformation of sulfur. The regulation of sulfur conversion to acid is key for developing strategies for preventing and reversing AMD pollution.
Pediatric cutaneous angiosarcoma of the scalp: Report of a rare case with literature review
Authors: Ambalavanan Nivetha , Saini Oshan , Gendle Chandrashekhar , Salunke Pravin , Gupta Kirti
Published: February 2024

Cutaneous angiosarcomas are rare tumors, predominantly arising in the sun-exposed skin of head and neck in adults and elderly patients. Rarely, these tumors can be seen in children. We describe a rare example of angiosarcoma in an adolescent boy arising in the scalp region and with intracranial extension. Lack of any syndromic associations or radiation exposure lends rarity to this case. Its aggressive nature warrants an urgent diagnosis and institution of therapy.
The Relevance of Tax Revenue on Budget Implementation in Nigeria (2012-2021)
Authors: Olaoye Clement Olatunji , ADEBAYO ADESODUN , Fakiyesi Oyindamola Adesola
Published: February 2024

This study examined the relevance of tax revenue on budget implementation in Nigeria, encompassing value-added tax, company income tax, and customs and excise duty, while measuring budget implementation through total accrual expenditure. The study utilized a time series dataset spanning from 2012 to 2021, sourced from the CBN statistical bulletin, 2022. Both descriptive and inferential analytical tools were employed, with variables described using mean, standard deviation, maximum, and minimum values. This was followed by Pearson correlation coefficient, unit root, co-integration, and error correction model estimation. The analysis revealed that value-added tax had a positive yet non-significant impact on budget implementation, with values of 0.3284 and 0.1781. Additionally, company income tax and customs and excise duty were found to have a progressively significant impact on budget implementation in Nigeria, with coefficient and probability values of 0.1486 (0.0183) and 0.2687 (0.0294) respectively. Consequently, it was concluded that tax revenue statistically influences budget implementation in Nigeria. To address this, it is recommended that the Nigerian government establishes a governing council to monitor revenue and expenditure, thereby minimizing discrepancies between planned and actual figures.
Severe anorexia nervosa with liver and cardiac abnormalities: a case report
Authors: Chen Yin , Zhang Zhitian , Liu Jiaojiao , Yan Hongmei , Li Fan , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2024

Background- Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is an eating disorder characterised by abnormal body weight, an excessive fear of gaining weight, and a distorted perception of body weight and shape, which can lead to various physical consequences. Case presentation- Here, we present the treatment of a young female patient diagnosed with severe anorexia nervosa, exhibiting a meager body weight, with the lowest Body Mass Index (BMI) of 8.6 kg/m2. She displayed both liver and cardiac damage. Complications associated with anorexia developed progressively during the course of disease, with impaired liver and heart function being prominent and contributing to a critical condition that could potentially culminate in an unfavorable outcome. These symptoms showed gradual improvement with a carefully planned, multidisciplinary, collaborative, and step-by-step approach to nutritional supplementation. Conclusions- The success of this case may provide a reference for the future diagnosis and treatment of patients with similar conditions. Level of evidence IV- (case study).
BMP-2 Regulates the Expression of Myosin Va via Smad in Melan-a Melanocyte
Authors: Park Ji Yun , Jo Chan Song , Ku Chang Hoe , Hwang Jae Sung
Published: February 2024

Myosin Va (Myo Va) is one of three protein complexes involved in melanosome transport. In this study, we identified BMP-2 as an up-regulator of Myo Va expression using 2-methyl-naphtho[1,2,3-de]quinolin-8-one (MNQO). Our results showed that MNQO reduced the mRNA and protein expression of Myo Va and BMP-2 in melanocytes. Knockdown of BMP-2 by siRNA also affected Myo Va mRNA and protein expression, confirming that MNQO regulates Myo Va through BMP-2. Furthermore, phosphorylation of Smad1/5/8 by BMP2 treatment confirmed that the BMP-2/Smad signaling pathway regulates Myo Va expression in Melan-a melanocytes. Smad-binding elements were found in the Myo Va promoter and phosphorylated Smad1/5/8 bind directly to the Myo Va promoter to activate Myo Va transcription and BMP-2 enhances this binding. These findings provide insight into a new role for BMP-2 in Melan-a melanocytes and a mechanism of regulation of Myo Va expression that may be beneficial in the treatment of albinism or hyperpigmentation disorders.
Genetic findings of children with congenital heart diseases using chromosome microarray and trio-based whole exome sequencing
Authors: Guo Rui , Duan Chunhong , Zarrei Mehdi , Reuter Miriam S. , Dong Rui , Zhang Guangye , Yang Xiaomeng , Zhang Haiyang , Wang Ying , Scherer Stephen W. , Liu Yi , Gai Zhongtao
Published: February 2024

Background
Congenital heart disease (CHD) is the most common type of birth defects. Genetic factors are the important contributor to the etiology of CHD. However, the underlying genetic causes in most individuals remain unclear.
Methods
101 individuals with CHD and their unaffected parents were included in this study. Chromosome microarray analysis (CMA) as a first-tier clinical diagnostic tool was applied for all affected individuals, followed by trio-based whole exome sequencing (WES). The function of the genes involved in the genetic variants in the cohort was analyzed.
Results
We detected aneuploidies in 2 individuals (trisomy 21 and monosomy X), other pathogenic/likely pathogenic copy number variants (CNVs) in 20 individuals, and pathogenic /likely pathogenic SNVs/InDels in 9 individuals. The combined genetic diagnostic yield was 30.7%, including 21.8% with chromosomal abnormalities and 8.9% with sequence-level variants. Nineteen CNVs in 19 individuals were associated with 14 recurrent chromosomal microdeletion/microduplication syndromes, the most common being 22q11.2 deletion syndrome. Pathogenic/likely pathogenic sequence-level variants were identified in nine genes, including GATA6, FLNA, KANSL1, HNRNPK, TRAF7, KAT6A, PKD1L1, RIT1, and SMAD6. The function of the genes involved in the CHD relevant CNVs and SNVs was analyzed indicating enriched genes are mainly associated with development of multiple organs, not only heart, but also brain and endocrine system.
Conclusions
CMA is a first-tier clinical diagnostic test to define the underlying genomic architecture of CHD. Trio-based WES increases the diagnostic yield, and should be part of the diagnostic algorithm. Our study expands the genes interaction networks for genetic study of CHD.
A Novel QCA Fine Grained Array Multiplier using Clock Zone Based Crossover
Authors: karuppiah pandiammal , deivasigamani meganathan
Published: February 2024

The crossover issues in geometric design complexity and alignment accuracy deter the performance of the Quantum-Dot Cellular Automata (QCA) digital logic circuits at nano-scale. The proposed novel Fine Grained Array Multiplier (FGAM) architecture conquers fabrication difficulties and optimizes the clock delay usage. The energy dissipation of Processing Element (PE) using Clock Zone-Based Crossover (CZBCO) is 5.4% lesser compared to PE using coplanar design and 6.6% lesser than PE using multilayer design. The performance of the proposed fine-grained array multiplier is validated by considering design complexity, delay, irreversible power dissipation and wire cost. The QCA cost function of the proposed FGAM has outperformed the multiplier implemented in the literature. Thus, the proposed multiplier significantly achieved high device density, reduction of energy dissipation and overcome fabrication difficulties.
Verification of selection trends in interventional treatment for patients with lumbar disc herniation and effects of condoliase therapy.
Authors: Fujimoto Kazuhiro , Suzuki Hidenori , Nishida Norihiro , Funaba Masahiro , Ichihara Yusuke , Ikeda Hiroaki , Imajo Yasuaki , Yamamoto Manabu , Sakai Takashi
Published: February 2024

This study aims to investigate selection trends in treatment for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) and the effects of condoliase therapy on muscle weakness. Patients with leg pain caused by LDH who received interventional treatment between September 2017 and August 2022 were included in this study. LDH patients were divided into two groups: an operative treatment group and condoliase therapy group. The period between September 2017 and August 2022 was divided into 5 equal parts and changes in the percentage of intervention treatment were examined. Sex, age, the body mass index (BMI), duration of symptoms, herniation level, and neurological findings were examined in the two groups. Motor recovery was also assessed in the two groups. Subjects included 226 males and 115 females with a mean age of 49.2 years, mean BMI of 22.8, and mean duration of symptoms of 5.0 months. The ratio between operative treatment and condoliase therapy reversed in the third year after the introduction of condoliase therapy. In the fourth year, condoliase therapy became the main treatment for LDH. Lower limb muscle strength improved in 76% of cases receiving condoliase therapy. Condoliase therapy has become an intermediate treatment before surgery in our institutions. Motor recovery in patients receiving condoliase therapy was not inferior to that after surgery; however, in cases with severe muscle weakness with manual muscle testing ≤3, the improvement rate was approximately 60%. These results will be useful for clinicians when providing informed consent and selecting condoliase therapy.
Optical Doppler effect in a ZIM: a new possible way examining applicability of Lorentz transformations in materials
Authors: Chen Jiangwei
Published: February 2024

There exist unresolved problems such as Abraham-Minkowski controversy (A-MC) and possibility of superluminal phenomena, which relate to applicability of Lorentz transformations (LTs) in materials. In this work, we shall show that, usually, expression(s) of optical Doppler shift (ODFS) may be obtained on the basis of LTs, which predicts that, in a zero-index metamaterial (ZIM), ODFS holds a nonzero second-order small quantity. Noting the report that, in a ZIM, there is no ODFS observed for a beam of microwave reflected by a moving surface, which indicates preliminarily that applicability of LTs in materials need to be further investigated. On the other hand, drawing lessons from general relativity and combining Fermat’s principle, it is proposed that LTs may be modified as that speed of light in free space should be replaced by phase velocity of light in a medium. Thus another expression of ODFS is obtained, which predicts that, in a ZIM, ODFS equals to zero strictly. This work may provide a new possible way to examine applicability of LTs in materials, and deepen the understanding of foundations of relativity.
PACS: 03.30. +p, 03.50.De
Evaluating Zn ferrite (Zn x Fe 3-x O 4 ; 0 ≤ x ≤ 1) for alkaline water oxidation: electrochemical and operando spectro- electrochemical study
Authors: Soni Amisha , Malviya Manisha , Lal B. , Tiwary Dhanesh
Published: February 2024

The present research work describes the fabrication of zinc ferrite nanoparticles with varying stoichiometric compositions (ZnxFe3-xO4; x= 0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1) and their electrocatalytic performance for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Egg white was employed as a precursor material during the thermal decomposition process to produce the catalysts. OER performances of four synthesized catalysts in the alkaline medium (1.0 M KOH) were investigated by physicochemical (XRD, FTIR and SEM) and electrochemical (CV, EIS, Tafel polarization) techniques. Among four Zn ferrite catalysts of different stoichiometry, just Zn0.25Fe2.75O4 exhibited the optimum catalytic activity, with the current density of 1 mA cm-2 at the overpotential of 454 mV, and with Tafel slope of 107 mVdec-1. The Arrhenius plot was applied to determine thermodynamic parameters such as activation energy and electrochemical entropy of reaction, which were found to be 54.22 kJ mol-1 and -74 J K-1 mol-1, respectively.
“Let`s put it this way: You can't really live without it” - Digital technologies in routine palliative care delivery: an explorative qualitative study with patients and their family caregivers in Germany
Authors: May Susann , Gehlhaar Anne , Stahlhut Kerstin , Kamp Marcel-Alexander , Heinze Martin , Allsop Matthew , Mühlensiepen Felix
Published: February 2024

Background
Despite ongoing efforts to integrate palliative care into the German healthcare system, challenges persist, especially in providing adequate services in rural and structurally weak areas. The increasing importance of digital technology (DT) in palliative care delivery presents both opportunities and challenges.
Objective
This study aimed to explore the perspectives and preferences of palliative care patients and their family caregivers regarding the use of DT in palliative care delivery.
Methods
An exploratory qualitative study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with palliative care patients and their family caregivers across various settings. Participants were selected through gatekeeper-supported purposive sampling. Interviews were analysed using structured qualitative content analysis.
Results
Nineteen interviews were conducted, reaching theoretical saturation. Three themes emerged: 1) Areas of application of DTs in palliative care; 2) Potential of DTs; 3) Barriers to the use of DTs. Key findings highlighted the preference for synchronous communication using familiar DTs. Participants reported limited perceived value for digital transformation where quality care exists. The study identified requirements for DT development and use in palliative care, including the need for direct and immediate functionality, efficiency in HCP work, and continuous access to services.
Conclusion
The findings highlight a preference for familiar and easily accessible synchronous DTs. While DT can enhance palliative care efficiency and accessibility, its integration must complement, not replace, personal interaction in palliative care. As DTs continue to grow in scope and use in palliative care, maintaining continued user engagement is essential to optimise their adoption and ensure they benefit patients and their caregivers.
Another kind of lonely death: the effects of changes in loneliness on the end-of-life self-care ability of elderly people from the perspective of the distance to death
Authors: Li Shubin , Zhu Yu
Published: February 2024

Objective
Lonely death, in the general sense, refers to the phenomenon in which the elderly pass away unattended and not unnoticed for some time thereafter. The objective of this paper is to examine whether a distinct form of lonely death exists, separate from the conventional understanding of lonely death, through an analysis of the impact of trends in loneliness on the end-of-life self-care ability of elderly individuals.
Methods
This study utilized data from a sample of 1,423 older adults aged 65 and over who participated in three waves of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey 2008–2014. Loneliness trends were characterised using the group-based growth model. Logistic and linear regressions were used to test the effect of changing loneliness trends on the self-care abilities of older adults nearing the end of life. Finally, path analyses were conducted to explore the specific mechanisms underlying the relationship between loneliness trends and end-of-life self-care.
Results
Among the older participants, people who were not lonely (61.9%) had greater health gains and, therefore, exhibited lower rates of chronic bedriddenness and higher levels of end-of-life self-care ability. In contrast, increased loneliness (30.8%) is associated with reduced health gains for the elderly population, resulting in a higher likelihood of chronic bedriddenness and decreased self-care abilities in their final days. The remaining older adults (7.3%) report reduced loneliness as a result of the 'attention' they receive as their health deteriorates. Reduced loneliness significantly impaired their end-of-life self-care ability.
Conclusion
30.8% of older people experienced increased loneliness during their lifetimes with a significant negative impact on their end-of-life self-care ability, i.e. "a different kind of lonely death". 7.3% of older people did not benefit from reduced loneliness, which was a "death by attention".
High prevalence of low-level viremia among infants initiated on antiretroviral drugs following mother-to-child transmission of HIV
Authors: Nankya Immaculate , Natukunda Eva , Rutebarika Diana , Matama Christine , Basiimwa Roy , Arikod Paul , Muwabe Faryad , Otike Caroline , Kityo Cissy
Published: February 2024

Background: The number of HIV-positive newborns has greatly decreased. However, complete viral suppression is imperative. We assessed the prevalence of low-level viremia among infants initiated on ART over a period of two years in a Ugandan cohort.
Methods: Drug resistance testing among infants at baseline (DRIBS) enrolled infants at the time of treatment initiation. Test. The infants were followed for two years. Viral loads (VL) were measured to monitor the response to therapy. Intensified adherence counseling (IAC) and HIV drug resistance testing were performed.
Results: Between June 2018 and October 2023, 100 infants were enrolled and followed up. The non-AIDS-related mortality rate was 4%. The median age at diagnosis was 79 (IQR, 57.75;140.75) days, with 4% of patients diagnosed within 6 weeks after delivery. The median age at the initiation of therapy was 110.5 (IQR, 87.0–162.0) days. The medianbaseline %CD4 was 26 (IQR, 18.75;32), with 9% of the babies being severely immunosuppressed. The median baseline log viral load was 4.44 (IQR, 3.19–5.58). At six months, 33% and 65% of the patients had a VL <50 and <1000 copies/ml, respectively. At 12 months, 39% and 74% of patients had a VL <50 and <1000 copies/ml, respectively. At month 18, 50% and 73% had VL <50 and <1000 copies/ml, respectively, and at 24 months, 74% and 88% had VL <50 and <1000 copies/ml, respectively. The proportions of babies with low-level viremia (LLV) (50-999 copies/ml) at months 6, 12, 18 and 24 were 25%, 30%, 21% and 14%, respectively. Post-IAC VL revealed that of the 58% of babies with a VL <1000 copies/ml, only 23% had a VL <50 copies/ml. Notably, there was a high proportion of LLV (35%) following IAC. Comparedwith mothers post-IAC VL, 42% of mothers had <50 copies/ml, with only 11.5% LLV. K‒M survival estimates showed that while it took 72 weeks for 50% of the mothers and infants to attain a VL less than 1000 copies/ml, it took 96 weeks for the infants to attain a VL <50 copies/ml.
Conclusion: Viral suppression is achieved much more slowly in pediatric patients, implying that it might take longer for babies to achieve the third 95. Furthermore, the greater prevalence of LLV in pediatric patients than in mothers has important implications for the response to therapy.
Comparison of Stochastic Optimization Strategies in Multi-Robot Multi-Target Tracking Scenarios
Authors: Xin Pujie , Dames Philip
Published: February 2024

This paper conducts a comparative study of stochastic optimization strategies to enable multi-robot systems to search for and track an unknown number of targets. Each robot is equipped with a noisy sensor that has a limited Field of View (FoV). The robots use a distributed version of the Probability Hypothesis Density (PHD) filter to estimate both the number and states of the targets. This online target estimate is used by the different search strategies to select actions for each robot. We compare Lloyd's algorithm, a traditional method for distributed search, with four stochastic optimization techniques: Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Simulated Annealing (SA), Ant Colony Optimization (ACO), and Artificial Immune Systems (AIS). Each of the methods is adapted from the traditional case of finding a single global optimum to locate all the local maxima (\ie targets). We demonstrate through extensive simulations that these techniques offer superior coverage of the search area and more accurate target localization compared to the baseline Lloyd's algorithm. We also discuss the strengths and limitations of each method, assisting practitioners in the selection of the most appropriate strategy based on specific operational factors, such as the communication load in a multi-robot system.
Influence of human emotions on conservation attitudes toward relevant wildlife species in El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve, Mexico
Authors: Castillo-Huitrón Nathalia M. , Naranjo Eduardo J. , Santos-Fita Dídac , Peñaherrera-Aguirre Mateo , Prokop Pavol , Cisneros Rodrigo , Gallegos Silvia Vaca , Ježová Zuzana
Published: February 2024

Human emotions had a significant impact on the survival of our ancestors throughout our evolutionary history. Nowadays, it is possible that our emotions still influence our attitudes in favor or against wildlife conservation. To analyze this hypothesis, we designed a study using eight iconic vertebrate species (two birds, five mammals, and a snake) with different ecological roles, some of which are threatened. The study was directed to 238 inhabitants of communities within El Triunfo Biosphere Reserve, Chiapas, Mexico. We built a Conservation Effort factor (CE) based on questions related to participants’ attitudes toward the focal species. We analyzed the influence of variables (predictors) through a Sequential Canonical Analysis (SEQCA) using the next sequence: (1) participants’ experiences with animals; (2) negative emotions; (3) positive emotions; and (4) CE. The model also considered the influence of sociodemographic variables (age, gender, participation in conservation activity, religion, and region). The model was significant and explained 25% of the variance. Although sociodemographic predictors had an influence on the participants’ experiences with the focal species, these variables did not have an effect on the CE. The CE was significantly influenced by positive (happiness) and negative (fear) emotions. Our study revealed the importance of human emotions in conservation management strategies, especially with species such as large carnivores and snakes. We conclude that personality predictors could explain the remaining variance in the model. We propose further studies to examine the role of emotions and other personal predictors in human-wildlife interactions.
Saúde sexual de jovens universitários: práticas de cuidado entre mulheres e homens
Authors: Oliveira Claudia Silvia Rocha , Spindola Thelma , Da Fonte Vinícius Rodrigues Fernandes , Daher Donizete Vago , Martins Elizabeth Rose Costa , De Melo Laércio Deleon
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: comparar as práticas de cuidado com a saúde sexual segundo o sexo dos estudantes universitários. Método: estudo transversal de abordagem quantitativa. Participaram 601 universitários, com idades entre 18 e 29 anos, de uma instituição de ensino superior pública na cidade do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil. O instrumento de coleta de dados foi um questionário. Os dados foram analisados com auxílio do software Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, sendo aplicada a estatística descritiva e inferencial. Resultados: estudantes do sexo feminino iniciam as práticas sexuais mais tardiamente, procuram mais os serviços de saúde, possuem menos parceiros sexuais ao longo da vida e no mesmo período, em comparação aos estudantes do sexo masculino. Já os homens apresentam maior utilização de preservativo, de modo frequente. Conclusão: em ambos os sexos existem práticas sexuais de risco. Aspectos socioculturais reverberam vulnerabilidades em saúde que precisam ser combatidas.
Percepções de mulheres jovens em tratamento oncológico
Authors: Monteiro Amanda Suélen , Bugs Cíntia Vanuza Monteiro , Machado Anahy da Silva , Scopel Mariana Ferreira , Dallabrida Giovana Sangiogo , Almeida Denise Comin Silva , Disconsi Flávia de Mello , Schanne Francielli Fernanda , Cogo Silvana Bastos , Sehnem Graciela Dutra
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: descrever as percepções de mulheres jovens em tratamento oncológico. Método: estudo qualitativo e descritivo desenvolvido nos ambulatórios de quimioterapia e radioterapia de um hospital universitário por meio de entrevista semiestruturada. Participaram da pesquisa 20 mulheres jovens que realizavam tratamento oncológico nos setores supracitados. A coleta foi realizada no período de julho a setembro de 2021. Os dados foram submetidos à Análise Temática Indutiva de Conteúdo. Resultados: as participantes tinham idade entre 20 e 40 anos. A maioria apresentava diagnóstico de câncer de mama, linfoma de Hodgkin ou carcinoma de células escamosas moderadamente diferenciado de colo uterino e vivenciava o tratamento oncológico pela primeira vez. Da análise das entrevistas, emergiram três categorias temáticas: “A força e a coragem de pensar positivamente”; “Sentindo-se um peso: a introspecção como uma alternativa” e “A experiência de tratar um câncer: ressignificando conceitos e perspectivas futuras”.  Considerações finais: concluiu-se que as mulheres jovens em tratamento oncológico valorizam o pensamento positivo para enfrentar as peculiaridades inerentes a este processo, porém sentem incapacidade em desempenhar suas atividades cotidianas e tiveram que lidar e redefinir seus próprios conceitos relativos ao futuro e suas perspectivas, atentando para o valor das pequenas coisas.
Exploring Female Pre-Service EFL Teacher’s Experiences with Content-Based Instruction: A Narrative Inquiry
Authors: Isnaini Dwi Safitri Mariesta , Fadlilah Sayyidatul , Ikhrom Ikhrom
Published: February 2024

The common problem of primary teachers in class situation is to create an effective learning environment by involving their competence to connect rational understanding, conceptual approaches, and adaptive considerations in delivering content material. In addition, the implementation of CBI in the context of teaching foreign languages requires teachers to have the ability to design content-based lesson planning and emphasize language skills. The study involved narrative research to explore the pre-working EFL female teacher experience with content-based instruction during the teacher preparation program. The study is based on theoretical concepts related to the professional knowledge of teachers about EFL and PCK (Pedagogical Content Knowledge) as the way EFL teachers describe their pedagogical knowledge. Data is obtained from various sources like: interviews, post-observation, learning diary, autobiography, and personal accounts. The data is then analyzed to generate evidence of how the participant actively applies CBI in teaching practice placement, how he creates class situation, and his aspirations about the future career of CBI. Three experience teachers of foreign language students with content-based instruction: exploring the identity/innovation interface” claim that the PCK enables students-teachers to implement CBI successfully.
Implementing Project-Based Learning for Pre-Service English Teachers in Independent Home Teaching Internship
Authors: Mariam Siti , Kepirianto Catur , Raharjo Raharjo , Ma’mun Nadiah
Published: February 2024

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the Education and Teacher Training Faculty of UIN Walisongo, Semarang, Indonesia offered Independent Home Teaching Internships in the academic year of 2021/2022. The purpose of this research is to explain the implementation of Project-Based Learning by pre-service English teachers, as well as to analyze the problems of teaching EFL learners in Independent Home Teaching Internship. The study employed qualitative descriptive research design. The research participants were 15 pre-service English teachers from the English Education Department. Interviews and documentation were used to collect data. According to the data, Project-based Learning was implemented in this program by creating some learning videos. They were video of learning media and also video of English teaching and learning process. The products of project-based learning must be uploaded in YouTube channel. Because this was the first time a teaching internship completed online via numerous platforms, there were also new concerns and hurdles in completing the program. As part of their online Project-based Learning, students struggled with preparing lesson plans and designing certain learning videos. Practical implications of utilizing this learning model make enhancing students’ critical thinking skills, creativity, motivation and autonomous learners. However, they can solve the several problems namely bad connection of internet access, students’ low motivation in learning English and classroom management in these programs
Checking the manufacturing of Simões Network 10 – SN10 through surface electromyography (sEMG) – case report study
Authors: Santiago Jr Orlando , Sakai Eduardo , Tamanaga Yamamoto Esther , Damos Simões Cintia Aparecida , Wagner Ribeiro Luciano , Amorin Mendonça Jordanna Guedes
Published: February 2024

Use of functional orthopedic appliances (FOA) in the treatment of malocclusion and Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) has been proved to be effective but there is still questions to be answered like the muscular action of the referred appliances. The aim of this study is checking through a proven protocol of surface electromyography (sEMG) to study muscular action of FOA to check to check if it is correctly manufactured. The appliance studied is a Simões Network 10 – SN10 to treat Class II malocclusion of retrognathia. The sEMG was collected 1 patients with class II malocclusion with retrognathia who belong to a 164 volunteers with malocclusion, in two times T1 before installation of the FOA in mouth, T2 15 minutes after the FOA installation in the mouth. sEMG data of bilateral masseter, bilateral temporal and bilateral suprahyoid muscles using conditioner signals module from Lynx Electronics Ltda with 8 channels, model EMG1000; software AqDAnalysis 4,18 from Lynx Electronics Ltda.; Software Lynx BioInspector 1,8r; passive surface electrodes (Ag/AgCl) from Noraxon Dual Electrodes (USA); dischargeable reference electrodes Kendall Meditrace (Ag/AgCl) – Canada were used for the sEMG measurements. Frequency calibration was 2000 Hz, with 2048 sample by channel and time 1,024 seconds, and filters regulation was 20 Hz and 1000 Hz. With the FOA in the mouth all measurements improved with a more simetrical sEMG in T2 in rest and isometric contraction measurements. The protocol used to check the manufacturing of functional orthopedic appliances using surface EMG proved to be a valid tool in this case report study. Further investigations are needed to confirm this protocol and check if the same happens with other types of functional orthopedics appliances.