bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Floral biology, pollinators and reproductive success of Abutilon grandifolium in urban green spaces of Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires
Authors: Cáceres Pablo Daniel , Estravis-Barcala Cecilia , Laino Leandro , Lajad Rocío , García María Teresa Amela
Published: March 2024

Urban green spaces have gained importance in view of growing urbanization; however, limited research exists on the interactions of native plants with the local fauna, particularly comparing protected natural areas vs. recreated ones. To contribute to filling this gap, the floral biology and pollination of Abutilon grandifolium (Malvaceae) were studied in an Ecological Reserve and in a square where the local environment was recreated with native plants, both located in Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina. A. grandifolium was self-compatible. The flowers presented typical characteristics of biotic pollination (ornamented pollen, conspicuous perianth and rewards), particularly melittophily (diurnal anthesis, nectar, yellow-orange coloration, UV spectrum reward guides and pleasant odour). At both sites, the most frequent visitors were Apis mellifera and halictid bees, collecting nectar or pollen. While visits from the former were predominantly illegitimate, those from the latter were mostly legitimate. Occasional visitors included the bees Xylocopa sp. and Bombus pauloensis, syrphid flies, plus rarely, beetles. In specimens of all the bees, great amounts of A. grandifolium pollen was found in positions compatible with an effective transfer to the stigmas, therefore, all of them would be pollinators (when they access legitimately). The flies and the beetles would be mainly pollen and nectar thieves. In general, the identity, frequency and activity of the floral visitors coincided in the two sites, being species richness even greater in the square; therefore, the conditions that allow A. grandifolium to reproduce by xenogamy would be recreated in the square, thus maintaining its genetic variability.
Classification of Cervical Cancer from Pap Smear Images Using Deep Learning: A Comparison of Transfer Learning Models
Authors: KAUR HARMANPREET , Sharma Reecha , Kaur Jagroop
Published: March 2024

Purpose Globally, cervical cancer is the most diagnosed type of cancer, and it is particularly prevalent among women in developing countries. The Pap smear is an essential diagnostic tool for detecting abnormal cells associated with cervical cancer. It is possible to significantly reduce cervical cancer deaths if detected and treated early. The manual screening process, however, results in a high percentage of false positives because of human error, which results in unnecessary treatment and anxiety for the patient. Therefore, it is imperative to develop a screening method that is more accurate and efficient to reduce false positives. To overcome this problem, automated screening methods have been proposed, such as computer-aided diagnosis (CAD), which can provide a more accurate and efficient diagnosis.Design/methodology/approach In this regard, this paper uses Deep Transfer Learning (DTL) models to classify single-cell pap smear images. Several pre-trained DTL models have been evaluated, including VGG16, VGG19, ResNet50, ResNet50V2, ResNet101, ResNet101V2, ResNet152, ResNet152V2, DenseNet121, DenseNet169, DenseNet201, MobileNet, XceptionNet, InceptionV3, and InceptionResNetV2, to determine which model is the most effective for detecting cervical cancer.Findings Based on a comparison of the results, ResNet101 and ResNet50 performed best in terms of accuracy and precision. In terms of classification accuracy, ResNet101 was the most reliable model with a score of 95.56 percent, whereas ResNet50 was the second most accurate model with a score of 91.19%. Our findings indicate that DTL models are suitable for automating cervical cancer screening, providing more accurate and efficient results than manual screening.Practical implications These models provide cytologists with valuable insights into cervix abnormalities and a reliable and efficient method for analysing and interpreting pap smear images.Research implications Due to the advancement of deep transfer learning, it has become possible to accurately classify single-cell pap smear images, which is crucial for detecting cervical cancer. Furthermore, the novice researcher can consult the reference paper to determine which transfer learning model is most suitable for their analysis of the Herlev dataset.Originality/value The proposed model using ResNet101 maximizes classification accuracy when compared to VGG16, VGG19, ResNet50, ResNet50V2, ResNet101V2, ResNet152, ResNet152V2, MobileNet, XceptionNet, InceptionV3, and InceptionResNetV2. To validate the results, confusion matrices are computed for each model. An original contribution of the paper is to present 16 deep transfer learning models for the classification of cervical cancers based on the Herlev dataset.
Attitudes of parents with a child with autosomal recessive disease toward consanguinity
Authors: Al-Kandari Yagoub , Bahzad Shaker , Ramadan Dina , Alsharhan Hind , Hussain Mohammad , Al-Herz Waleed
Published: March 2024

The major aim of this study is to examine the perspective and attitudes of parents with one or more affected children by an AR disease towards consanguineous marriages. A total of 285 parents were invited to participate in this study. The sample was divided into two groups: clinical sample including parents attending various clinics in hospitals and a community sample. A self-administered survey was developed by researchers. The questionnaire was about the subjects’ attitudes toward consanguinity and was divided into two parts: sociocultural and health attitudes. SPSS was used for data entry and analysis. Chi-square, t-test and Pearson correlation were the major statistical procedures. Significant differences were found between consanguineous parents with at least one affected child with an AR genetic disease and the community sample (non-consanguineous parents). Regarding the prevalence of consanguinity, support consanguinity in general, parents want their children to marry a relative and consanguinity is common in their family, significant differences were also found between clinical and community samples. Regarding health attitudes, significant differences between the two samples were found in six out of seven examined variables. A relationship between the rate of consanguinity and the respondent’s education level was found. High level of inbreeding with increasing consanguinity rates is responsible for the high prevalence of inherited AR genetic disorders in the MENA region with subsequent morbidity and mortality.
Assessing Tradeoffs and Synergies between Land Use Land Cover Change and Ecosystem Services in River Ecosystem Using InVEST Model
Authors: Majumdar Aditi , Avishek Kirti
Published: March 2024

Riverine ecosystems supply humans with a variety of ecosystem services (ESs), but anthropogenic activities endanger their availability worldwide. Understanding the spatiotemporal characteristics of riverine ESs and identifying the primary driving forces behind various ESs are crucial for preserving regional ecological security and achieving ecosystem sustainability. The study examines the spatio-temporal changes from 2000 to 2022 in the Danro River Basin in Jharkhand in four essential Ecosystem Services (ES): Sediment Delivery Ratio (SDR), Nutrient Delivery Ratio (NDR), Habitat Quality Monitoring (HQM) and Carbon Storage (CS), using InVEST model, Land Use Dynamics Index and Correspondence analysis. Danro River is a tributary of the Ganges River basin affected by sand mining. Key results were: (1) A rise in soil erosion was observed due to the transformation of agricultural land into urban areas; (2) The phosphorous and nitrogen retention was higher in agricultural land as compared to forest areas; (3) The habitat quality of the Danro River body showed degradation during 2000 to 2020; (4) The study area can sequester 2128304.92 Mg of Carbon; (5) The land use dynamic index (K) indicated that bare ground experienced the greatest impact, with a value of -0.021. The study uncovered complex relationships between ecosystem services and land use changes, emphasizing tradeoffs and synergies and laying stress on the holistic management strategies to balance tradeoffs and leverage synergies. The findings provide valuable insights for decision-making in socio-environmental processes. Other regions missing meteorological, hydrological, and geological data may also benefit from applying the InVEST model with localized parameters.
Engineering customized viral receptors for various coronaviruses
Authors: Yan Huan , Liu Peng , Huang Meiling , Guo Hua , Si Junyu , Chen Yuanmei , Wang Chunli , Yu Xiao , Shi Lulu , Xiong Qing , Ma Chengbao , Tong Fei , Liu Chen , Chen Jing , Guo Ming , Li Jing , Shi Zhengli
Published: March 2024

Coronaviruses display versatile receptor usage, yet in-depth characterization of coronaviruses lacking known receptor identities has been impeded by the absence of feasible infection models1,2. Here, we developed an innovative strategy to engineer functional customized viral receptors (CVRs). The modular design relies on building receptor frameworks comprising various function modules and generating specific epitope-targeting viral binding domains. We showed the key factors for CVRs to efficiently facilitate spike cleavage, membrane fusion, pseudovirus entry, and authentic virus propagation for various coronaviruses, resembling their native receptors. Applying this strategy, we delineated the accessible receptor binding epitopes for functional SARS-CoV-2 CVR design and elucidated the mechanism of entry supported by an amino-terminus domain (NTD) targeting S2L20-CVR. Furthermore, we created CVR-expressing cells for assessing antibodies and inhibitors against 12 representative coronaviruses from six subgenera, most of which lacking known receptors. Notably, a pan-sarbecovirus CVR supported entry of various sarbecoviruses, as well as propagation of a replicable HKU3 pseudovirus and the authentic strain RsHuB2019A3. Through combining an HKU5-specific CVR with reverse genetics, we successfully rescued and cultured wild-type and fluorescence protein-incorporated HKU5, a receptor-unidentified merbecovirus. Our study demonstrated the great potential of CVR strategy in establishing native receptor-independent infection models, paving the way for studying various viruses that are challenging to culture due to the lack of susceptible cells.
Upcycled High-Strength Aluminum Alloys from Scrap through Solid-Phase Alloying
Authors: Li Xiao , Wang Tianhao , Li Zehao , Liu Tingkun , Wang Xiang , Devaraj Arun , Powell Cindy , Santos Jorge F. dos
Published: March 2024

Although recycling secondary aluminum can lead to energy consumption reduction compared to primary aluminum manufacturing, products produced by traditional melt-based recycling processes are inherently limited in terms of alloy composition and microstructure, and thus final properties. To overcome the constraints associated with melting, we have developed a novel solid-phase recycling and simultaneous alloying method. This innovative process enables the alloying of 6063 aluminum scrap with copper, zinc, and magnesium, to form a nanocluster-strengthened high-performance aluminum alloy with a composition and properties akin to 7075 aluminum alloy. The unique nanostructure with high density of Guinier-Preston zones and uniformly precipitated nanoscale η'/Mg(CuZn)2 strengthening phases, enhances both yield and ultimate tensile strength by > 200%. By delivering high-performance products from scrap that are not just recycled but upcycled, this scalable manufacturing approach offers a new paradigm of metals reuse, with the option for on-demand upcycling of a variety of metallic materials from scrap sources.
Are toe fringes important for lizard burying in highly mobile sand?
Authors: Zheng Peng , Liang Tao , Shi Lei
Published: March 2024

Toe fringes are a key innovation for sand dwelling lizards, and the relationship between toe fringe function and substrate properties is helpful in understanding the adaptation of lizards to sand dune environments. We tested the sand burial performance ofPhrynocephalus mystaceuson different sand substrates with toe fringe manipulation, with the aim of assessing whether the function of the toe fringes shifts under different substrate properties, especially in highly mobile substrates. The sand burial performance ofP. mystaceuswas influenced by substrate properties in relation to the toe fringe states of the lizard. After removal of the bilateral toe fringes, the sand burial ability score ofP. mystaceuswas significantly higher on sand substrates below 100 mesh than on native sand substrates. As the angle of stability of the substrate properties decreased, the sand burial performance of the lizard was even better after the bilateral toe fringes were removed. The results of the LASSO model and the path analysis model showed that the stability angle provided the opposite effect on sand burial performance in different toe fringe states. These results further suggest that the sand burial function of toe fringes may not be suitable for highly mobile sand substrates. It remains to be tested further whether the function of toe fringes is more important for running on sand.
A systematic review of the biomarkers associated with cognition and mood state in bipolar disorder
Authors: Anaid Perez-Ramos , Cristina Romero-Lopez-Alberca , Maria HIdalgo-Figueroa , Esther Berrocoso , Ildefonso Perez-Revuelta Jose
Published: March 2024

Background
Bipolar disorder (BD) is a severe psychiatric disorder characterized by changes in mood that alternate between (hypo) mania or depression and mixed states, often associated with functional impairment and cognitive dysfunction. But little is known about biomarkers that contribute to the development and sustainment of cognitive deficits. The aim of this study was to review the association between neurocognition and biomarkers across different mood states.
Method
Search databases were Web of Science, Scopus and PudMed. A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA guidelines. Risk of bias was assessed with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Studies were selected that focused on the correlation between neuroimaging, physiological, genetic or peripheral biomarkers and cognition in at least two phases of BD: depression, (hypo)mania, euthymia or mixed. PROSPERO Registration No.: CRD42023410782
Results
A total of 1824 references were screened, identifying 1023 published articles, of which 336 were considered eligible. Only 16 provided information on the association between biomarkers and cognition in the different affective states of BD. We mainly found two types of biomarkers examining this association across BD mood states. Regarding peripheral biomarkers, although literature suggests an association with cognition, our review did not reveal such an association. Differences in levels of total cholesterol and C-reactive protein were observed depending on mood state. Neuroimaging biomarkers highlighted hypoactivation of frontal areas stands out for the acute states of BD and a deactivation failure has been reported in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC), potentially serving as a trait marker of BD.
Conclusion
Only a few recent articles have investigated biomarker-cognition associations in BD mood phases. Our findings underline that there appear to be central regions involved in BD that are observed in all mood states. However, there appear to be underlying mechanisms of cognitive dysfunction that may vary across different mood states in bipolar disorder. This review highlights the importance of standardizing the data and the assessment of cognition, as well as the need for biomarkers to help prevent acute symptomatic phases of the disease, and the associated functional and cognitive impairment.
Evaluation of fatigue and quality of life in patients with cancer of the musculoskeletal system undergoing chemotherapy treatment. An observational study
Authors: Morri Mattia , Boccomini Riccardo , Bruku Eugenio , Romagnoli Erika , Boschi Rita , Raucci Giovanni , Bellinaterra Ausilia , Affilitaion Paola Coluccino
Published: March 2024

Purpose: the aim of the study is to evaluate the presence of fatigue syndrome and the quality of life of patients with cancer of the musculoskeletal system during the first 6 months of chemotherapy and identify possible prognostic factors.
Methods: prospective observational study was conducted. All patients about to start antiblastic therapy were consecutively recruited from July 2019 to April 2021. Patient fatigue and quality of life was measured at the start of antiblastic therapy and after 6 months. The BFI score and EORTC QLQ C-30 was used respectively. The variables were defined through a literature search and comparison between professionals.
Results: The analysis of risk factors was performed on 98 patients. The mean BFI at 6 months was 2.8 (2.2) and in 36% of patients fatigue was classified from moderate to severe. The average global and functional quality of life decreased by 9.1 and 5.3 points respectively. The strength of the association between the BFI score and the 3 subscales derived from the EORTC was moderate (p<0.001). Smoking status, increase in BMI and the reduction in functional capabilities were independent predictive factors of fatigue.
Conclusion: Fatigue syndrome is present in a significant percentage of patients both at the start of chemotherapy treatment and in the following 6 months. Being a no smoker, reducing BMI and increasing functional ability could impact fatigue syndrome. The quality of life for these patients is reduced with a decreasing trend in the first months and associated with fatigue syndrome
Registration number (clinicaltrial.gov): NCT04104750 (26/09/2019)
Oxidative stress tolerance and salicylic acid levels in early-flowering populations derived from two cultivars of annual flax (Linum usitatissimum L.)
Authors: Santacroce Angelica , Kothari Sajani , Wang Mutian , Thiyagarajah Bibizan , Ko Su Hyun (Elizabeth) , Gunasekar Swetharajan , Brown Jason
Published: March 2024

Based on the Oxidative Stress Theory of Aging, long-lived organisms should exhibit greater oxidative stress tolerance than short-lived organisms. For annual plants, such as flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), there is a positive correlation between flowering time and lifespan; therefore, we investigated whether early-flowering populations of two flax cultivars (Royal [R] and Stormont Cirrus [L]) exhibited lower oxidative stress tolerance than their normal-flowering controls, in the presence and absence of exogenous oxidative stress. Oxidative stress tolerance was assessed via mitochondrial uncoupling, catalase activity, and peroxide-induced cell membrane damage. We also investigated whether early-flowering flax populations exhibited different endogenous salicylic acid (SA) levels than their normal-flowering controls since SA is known to regulate both oxidative stress response and flowering time. We found no differences except that mitochondrial uncoupling was lower in early-flowering populations from the L (but not R) cultivar compared to normal-flowering controls. Perhaps L. usitatissimum has already evolved such a low oxidative stress tolerance that it cannot be further reduced in early-flowering populations. Unexpectedly, we observed that the two cultivars exhibited different responses to exogenous oxidative stress. Catalase activity was higher in response to exogenous oxidative stress in the L (but not R) cultivar, whereas peroxide-induced cell membrane damage was higher in the R (but not L) cultivar. SA may play some role in these cultivar-specific responses. As the R and L cultivars has been selected for their seed oil and fibres, respectively, the differential response of these cultivars may reflect trade-offs between oxidative stress tolerance and trait selection.
Health system resilience in countries facing terrorist threats: a scoping review
Authors: BAYOULOU Souleymane , SOMÉ Vouanda , NIARE Boubacar , ROUAMBA Tarwindssèga Désiré , ZOUNGRANA Wend-Yam Yves Armel R , KOLLO Appolinaire TONYE , KABORÉ K. P. Nöel , TRAORE Assita Banakourou , KOANDA Ousmane , BAYILI Nébilbié Christophe , TRAORE Augusta Bintou , KOUDOUGOU Jean Baptiste , NGANGUE Patrice
Published: March 2024

Background: The increasing frequency of terrorist events has led to a growing need for healthcare services. Indeed, the unexpected nature of terrorist attacks affects the healthcare system. The number of deaths among victims admitted to healthcare facilities calls into question the ability of health systems to cope with shocks. This article aims to strengthen the understanding of the resilience processes of healthcare systems and identify support strategies for other systems facing significant shocks.
Methods: A scoping review included empirical research on health system resilience and terrorism threats from peer-reviewed literature was conducted. A comprehensive search strategy was conducted in four electronic databases (Medline/PubMed, CINAHL, Global Health, and PsycInfo) in January 2023. A graphic method was used to synthetize findings and a thematic analysis was performed to identy resiliences concepts based on the World Health Organization (WHO) health system building blocks.
Results: We screened 37 papers, then completed a full text review of 35 identified as relevant. A total of 33 papers were retained for analysis. The results indicate that when health service utilization and stress are associated with service delivery, human resource capacity erodes, compromising system functioning.
In most cases, health services were surprised by events because they lacked a minimum emergency preparedness plan. These systemic shocks reinforced the need to strengthen the resilience of healthcare systems. However, the practical application of interventions to make systems resilient has yet to be clearly defined. However, the absorptive capacities of the healthcare system enable an immediate response to a crisis, drawing on available human and organizational resources. It is also clear that by remaining flexible in organizing services, healthcare systems can strengthen their adaptive capacities to ensure better service delivery.
Conclusions: Bringing order to the chaos following a terrorist incident requires discipline and a well-prepared, professional healthcare team.
Mesoscopic elasticity controls dynamin-driven fission of lipid tubules
Authors: Casciola Carlo , Bussoletti Marco , Gallo Mirko , Bottacchiari Matteo , Abbondanza Dario
Published: March 2024

Mesoscale physics bridges the gap between the microscopic degrees of freedom of a system and its large-scale continuous behavior and highlights the role of a few key quantities in complex and multiscale phenomena, like dynamin-driven fission of lipid membranes. The dynamin protein wraps the neck formed during clathrin-mediated endocytosis, for instance, and constricts it until severing occurs. Although ubiquitous and fundamental for life, the cooperation between the GTP-consuming conformational changes within the protein and the mesoscale response of the underlying lipid substrate is yet to be unraveled. In this work, we build an effective mesoscopic model from constriction to fission of lipid tubules based on continuum membrane elasticity and implicitly accounting for ratchet-like power strokes of dynamins. Localization of the fission event, the overall geometry, and the energy expenditure we predict comply with the major experimental findings. This bolsters the idea that a mesoscopic continuous picture emerges soon enough to relate dynamin polymerization length and membrane rigidity and tension with the optimal pathway to fission. We therefore suggest that dynamins found in in vivo processes may optimize their structure accordingly. Ultimately, we shed light on real-time conductance measurements available in literature and predict the fission time dependency on elastic parameters.
Dielectric Properties of PVA/MgO Polymer Nanocomposite Films
Authors: N SHRUTHI K , KUMAR MOHAN , V RAMARAJA VARMA , R SUSHMA , SANJEEV GANESH
Published: March 2024

The polymer nanocomposites (PNC) films using MgO and PVA were prepared by solution casting method. XRD, FTIR, and EDX investigations performed in combination gave detailed insights into the structural, chemical and elemental properties of the MgO-PVA composite along with the purity of the sample. The SEM images provide evidence for an even distribution of MgO nanoparticles in the prepared sample. The influence of MgO nanoparticle concentration on the ac conductivity and dielectric properties of nanocomposite films has been investigated. The values of both the real part (εʹ) and the imaginary part (εʹʹ) of the dielectric constant and ac-conductivity of PVA film have been observed to increase with increasing MgO concentration. At higher frequencies, the prepared PNC films exhibit a low dielectric value and behave as a lossless material. Thus, the findings of this study offer valuable insights that can be utilized for designing and assessing the performance of materials and devices across diverse fields, ultimately leading to advancements in electrical engineering and related disciplines.
Exploring Doping Prevalence in Sport from Indirect Estimation Models: A Systematic Review and Meta-Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Sagoe Dominic , Cruyff Maarten , Chegeni Razieh , Veltmaat Annalena , Kiss Anna , Soós Sándor , de Hon Olivier , Heijden Peter van der , Petróczi Andrea
Published: March 2024

Background
To our knowledge, no previous systematic review and meta-analysis on doping prevalence in sport from Indirect Estimation Models (IEM) exists. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis complemented with a bibliometric analysis on empirical IEM-based studies of admitted doping prevalence in sport.
Methods
We conducted electronic database and ad hoc searches up to December 2023, estimated lifetime and past year prevalence rates, and conducted study quality/risk of bias as well as bibliometric analysis.
Results
Forty five studies were included in the review (meta-analysis: k = 33, bibliometric analysis: k = 22). The World Anti-Doping Agency’s definition of doping use was applied for data collection in most studies (k = 18) and doping prevalence was mostly assessed as past year/season (k = 20). Studies included in the meta-analysis were mostly conducted in Europe, particularly Germany (k = 10), and applied the Unrelated Question (k = 11) and Forced Response (k = 10) models. The lifetime prevalence rate of doping for competitive athletes was 22.5% (95% CI: 15.3–31.4, k = 10) and 17.2% (95% CI: 10.5–26.0, k = 4) for recreational sportspersons (t = -1.69, p = .100). Additionally, the past year prevalence rate of doping for competitive athletes was 14.3% (95% CI: 9.6–20.3, k = 14) and 10.3% (95% CI: 6.1–16.3, k = 7) for recreational sportspersons (t = -1.69, p = .100). Study participants were mostly multi-sport (k = 22) and competed at diverse levels. Additionally, majority of data (k = 27) were collected outside sport events. Most studies were evaluated as of moderate risk/quality (k = 17). Eight of the 17 journals where the prevalence estimation studies were published target sports readership. The mean normalized citation score is above the international average at 1.48 (range: 0.00–6.26), with two dominant but unconnected author communities.
Conclusions
One of six competitive athletes and recreational sportspersons in our sample of included studies admitted doping under IEM, exceeding the prevalence obtained via direct questioning and analytical testing. Despite their advantages, considerable internal variation in publication years and stable collaborations within the two identified communities of authors, IEM-based studies of doping prevalence require functional improvement.
Can a Mobile Application Improve Glucose-Related and Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMS) in People with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus? a Randomized Controlled Trial Using mySugr®APP
Authors: Cuixart Gemma , Corcoy Rosa , González Cintia
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Mobile applications (app) emerge as effective tools to empower people with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and provide better self-care, quality of life (QOL) and glycemic control. The aim of the study is to test if mySugr®, an app for diabetes management, together with teleconsultations, can have a positive impact on these aspects and replace current clinical care.
Methods: Exploratory randomized clinical trial of 12 months of duration. People with T1DM were randomized to usual care (bolus calculator, 5 face-to-face visits) or intervention (mySugr® app, 3 face-to-face visits, 2 teleconsultations). Main outcome: Increase in empowerment, assessed with Diabetes Empowerment Scale Short Form questionnaire (DES-SF-S). Secondary outcomes: Change in additional glucose-related (blood glucose monitoring, mean blood glucose, standard deviation, coefficient of variation (CV), high and low blood glucose index) and patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) (self-management, QOL and distress).
Results: 25 out of 28 participants completed the study (52% men, age44.52 years, diabetes duration 21.28 years). At 12 months, no significant differences were detected in the change of DES-SF-S and additional PROMs between arms. Similarly, no differences were detected in glucose-related outcomes except for the change in CV at 9 (control -1.87±4.98 vs intervention 5.89±11.33, p=0.008) and 12 months (control -2.33±3.54 vs intervention 5.12±11.32, p=0.018). Adherence and satisfaction with the app were high.
Conclusion: Patients with diabetes using mySugr® app and teleconsultation achieved similar results than those following usual care in empowerment, other PROMs and most glucose-related outcomes, supporting its use as an alternative.
The RCT was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03819335, first registration 28/01/2019).
Molecular docking and DFT study of 4-difluoromethyl pyrazole derivatives as cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitor
Authors: Khan Muhammad Tahseen Nawaz , Hussain Riaz , Mubarik Adeel , Haider Muhammad Durair Sajjad , Ikram Muniba , Amin Ayesha , Nazar Muhammad Faizan , Hussain Ajaz , Ayub Khurshid
Published: March 2024

We applied molecular docking simulations and DFT to examine the binding interactions of 4-difluoromethyl pyrazole derivatives (3a-3h). We assessed the potential binding mechanisms and strengths of derivatives within the receptor's binding site. By methodical simulations, we elucidated the characteristics and interactions towards binding capacities. Proposed compounds were subjected to molecular docking with the major protease (PDB:3LN1) to assess binding affinities. In designed compounds (3a-3h), 3a and 3f show the highest docking score, leading to high affinity toward 3LN1. An energy score of -6.9765 Cal/mol of ligand 3g suggests a strong and advantageous binding affinity, with the negative number indicating stability. The reactivity parameters, FMO, and MEP of the drugs were estimated by DFT calculations. The strong affinity of 3a and 3f was attributed to the existence of three hydrogen bonds and several hydrophobic interactions between the drug and the essential amino acid residues of the receptor. Ultimately, the molecular docking findings were illustrated using the estimated molecule electrostatic potential data using DFT. All these characteristics showed varying degrees of influence on the binding affinity of these compounds with the active protein locations.
Breast cancer in Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) has a specific biology and poor patient outcome compared to older patients
Authors: Oshi Masanori , Yamada Akimitsu , Gandhi Shipra , Wu Rongrong , Sasamoto Mahato , Yamamoto Shinya , Narui Kazutaka , Ishikawa Takashi , Takabe Kazuaki , Endo Itaru
Published: March 2024

Background
We aimed to clarify the features of adolescents and young adults (AYA: younger than 40yo) breast cancer (BC) compared with other age groups in ER-positive/HER2-negative BC, given the effects of age-related hormonal status.
Methods
The cohorts analyzed were divided into: AYA (15-39yo), Perimenopausal (40-54yo), Menopausal (55-64yo), and Old (65 + yo). Clinicopathological and biological features were analyzed using gene set variation analysis and the xCell algorithm using transcriptome profiles from large public databases of ER-positive/HER2-negative BC (METABRIC; n = 1,353, SCAN-B; n = 2,381).
Results
Tumors were larger and more advanced among the AYA and Old age groups than among the other groups. Pathological lymph node positivity and Nottingham grade 3 were higher among AYA. AYA was significantly associated with triple-negative BC and higher HER2-positivity. AYA had poorer disease-specific and overall survival particularly compared to perimenopausal group. In the ER-positive/HER2-negative subtype, estrogen response late signaling decreased with age. AYA was associated with significantly higher BRCAness and DNA repair than the other groups. AYA significantly enriched cell proliferation-related and pro-cancerous gene sets (MTORC1, unfolded protein response, and PI3K/AKT/MTOR signaling) when compared to the others. Interestingly, these features have also been observed in small tumors. Infiltration of CD8+, regulatory, and helper type 2 T cells, and M1 macrophages was higher, while M2 macrophages were lower in AYA. Finally, ER-positive/HER2-negative BC in AYA patients has different features of gene mutations compared to other age groups.
Conclusions
ER-positive/HER2-negative BC in AYA was highly proliferative with high immune cell infiltration compared to other generations.
2-balanced sequences coding rectangle exchange transformation
Authors: Dvořáková Lubomíra , Masáková Zuzana , Pelantová Edita
Published: March 2024

We define a new class of ternary sequences that are 2-balanced. These sequencesare obtained by colouring of Sturmian sequences. We show that the class containssequences of any given letter frequencies. We provide an upper bound on factorand abelian complexity of these sequences. Using the interpretation by rectangleexchange transformation, we prove that for almost all triples of letter frequencies,the upper bound on factor and abelian complexity is reached. The bound onfactor complexity is given using a number-theoretical function which we computeexplicitly for a class of parameters.
MSC Classification: 68R15
Expression of PGC-1α, PPAR-α and UCP1 genes, metabolic and anthropometric factors in
response to sodium butyrate supplementation in patients with obesity: A triple-blind,
randomized placebo-controlled clinical trial
Authors: hosseini seyed ahmad , Amiri Parichehr , Saghafi-asl Maryam , Roshanravan Neda , Tootoonchian Mitra
Published: March 2024

Objective There is increasing evidence that gut metabolites have a role in the etiology of obesity. This study aimed to investigate the effects of sodium butyrate (NaB) supplementation on the expression of peroxisome proliferator activated-receptor (PPAR) gamma coactivator -1α (PGC- 1α), PPAR-α, and uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) genes, as well as on metabolic parameters and anthropometric indices in persons with obesity.
Methods In this triple-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial, 50 individuals with obesity were randomly assigned to NaB (600mg/day) + hypo-caloric diet or placebo group + hypo-caloric diet for 8 weeks. Serum levels of metabolic parameters, mRNA expression of PGC1-α, PPAR-α, and UCP1 genes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), the participants' food intake and appetite sensations were assessed.
Results PGC1-α and UCP1 genes expression increased significantly in NaB group compared to the placebo at the endpoint. A significant decrease in weight, BMI, and waist circumference (WC) was also observed in NaB group. NaB significantly decreased fasting blood sugar (FBS) (P=0.04), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (P=0.038) and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (P=0.016). Food intake and appetite decreased significantly in NaB group (P<0.05).
Conclusions This investigation unveiled the substantial impact of NaB on some anthropometric and metabolic risk variables associated with obesity.
Influence of various intercropping systems on soil quality characteristics and their potential for climate change adaptation in Dedza, Malawi
Authors: Kammawmba Alice Zone , Vunain Ephraim , Mpeketula Placid , Meijboom Reinout
Published: March 2024

Malawi’s food security, mainly dependent on subsistence crop production by poor smallholder farmers, is seriously affected by the negative impacts of land degradation due to climate change and poor production practices. The effects of climate change and the increasing population also exacerbate the situation. As opportunities for land-extensive agricultural growth are reduced, modern production technologies such as intercropping have become essential for producing sufficient food for the country. The study aims to describe the effects of different cereal-to-legume intercropping systems on soil quality characteristics and crop yield for climate change adaptation in Dedza District, a case of Lobi Extension Planning Area (E.P.A.). Data on soil characteristics and crop yields were collected. The methodology involved soil sampling from 0–5 cm and 5–20 cm on the ridge, then 0–5 cm and 5–20 cm on the fallow from each plot, and later laboratory analyses for soil physical and chemical analyses. Results of one-way ANOVA showed that cereal-legume intercropping combinations in this study affected the soil chemical properties such as soil nitrogen, organic matter, particulate organic matter, and exchange capacity, which were higher in intercropping systems than monocropping (p < 0.05). However, the system did not affect the soil pH, K, P contents, soil moisture, and water infiltration characteristics (p > 0.05). Overall, the cereal and legume combination intercropping system had a significant and positive linear regression effect on crop yield (p < 0.001; R2 = 0.6325) with an average grain yield of about 357066.15 (kg/ha). These results indicate that the cereal and legume intercropping system positively influenced crop yield, encouraging smallholder farmers to consider cereal and legume crop combinations intercropping to improve soil chemical properties and boost crop productivity.
Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH): Palaeopathological Study on Human Remains from Parthian Cemetery, Liyarsangbon, Guilan, Iran; With a Special Reference to Metastatic Cancer as the Cause of Death
Authors: Eghdami Mohammad Reza , Roudbordeh Majid Gholamzadeh , Omami Mohammad Hassan Hedayati , Zaieni Habib , Bozorgnia Maryam
Published: March 2024

Diffuse Idiopathic Skeletal Hyperostosis (DISH) is a systemic noninflammatory condition that is characterized by unknown causes. It is closely associated with various factors including sex, age, environmental influences, genetic predisposition, and fluctuations in medication. Certain diseases, including gout, metabolic disorders such as type 2 diabetes as well as populations. Paleopathological studies of ancient remains indicate that it has been identified in various archaeological populations. The studied individual was discovered from Liyarsangbon cemetery, Amlash city, Guilan province, Iran. On the base of preliminary typology, the artifacts and grave types, the site was dated to the Parthian (247 BCE–224 CE) and in a few cases to the Sassanid period (224–651 CE). The remains of an individual with a potential case of DISH disease have attracted the interest of researchers. While there are other possible diagnoses such as spondyloarthropathies, Paget's disease, metabolic diseases, and POEMS syndrome. Following osteological examinations, advanced radiological imaging methods, in addition to visual inspection, were employed to differentiate between potential diagnoses. Based on criteria, the ultimate diagnosis was determined to be either DISH or eDISH. The presence of patchy sclerotic bone lesions in the majority of the pelvic, and spine, suggesting osteoblastic metastatic tumors that may have contributed to the individual's demise.
Differential Privacy based Cloud- Data Security Model (DP-DSM) with Deep Learning in Cloud
Authors: P Santhoshkumar S , H Lilly Beaulah
Published: March 2024

In particular, machine learning and data analytics applications are moving an increasing amount of data storage and computation from the local to the cloud due to the rapid development of cloud computing. However, because the cloud servers are managed by a third party, consumers cannot totally rely on them. As a result, it becomes difficult to implement privacy-preserving deep learning over cloud data from several data sources. The Differential Privacy based Cloud Security Model (DP-DSM), which secures both cloud data sets and the data sets of multiple providers, is thus proposed in this study as a novel paradigm. The model makes use of a differential privacy algorithm to protect the privacy requirements of various providers. Additionally, the model redesigns the training procedure and requires the data owner to include a randomization layer before transmitting the data in order to counteract an unreliable deep learning model. The Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) architecture is divided into three layers: the convolutional unit, the randomization unit, and the fully connected unit. In addition, the proposed approach is assessed for time consumption and attack detection accuracy, making it more useful for IoT-driven cloud environments than previous methods.
The Specific Shapes of Capillaries are Associated with Worse Prognosis in Patients with Invasive Breast Cancer
Authors: Swe Hnin-Wint-Wint , Fujisawa Masayoshi , Ohara Toshiaki , Komatsubara Yu , Yoshimura Teizo , Shien Tadahiko , Matsukawa Akihiro
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Angiogenesis is considered essential for tumor progression; however, whether histological counting of blood vessel numbers, expressed as microvessel density (MVD), can be a prognostic factor in breast cancer remains controversial. It has been suggested that the specific morphology of blood vessels such as glomeruloid microvascular proliferation (GMP) was associated with clinical parameters. Here, we aimed to clarify the significance of MVD with revised immunohistochemistry and to identify new blood vessel shapes that predict prognosis in breast cancer.
Methods
Four hundred and eleven primary breast cancer specimens were collected, and the sections were immunohistochemically stained with CD31 (single staining) and CD31 and Collagen IV (double staining). The prognosis of patients was examined according to MVD value, and the presence of GMP and other blood vessels with other specific shapes.
Results
With a sensitive and specific double immunostaining, high MVD value was associated even with better survival. The presence or absence of GMP was not related to patients’ prognosis. By contrast, patients with deep-curved capillaries surrounding tumor cell nests (C-shaped) or excessively branched capillaries near tumor cell nests showed a significantly poor prognosis. The presence of these capillaries was also correlated with clinicopathological parameters such as Ki-67 index and histological grade.
Conclusion
Even though MVD is widely used as a marker of angiogenesis, the complex morphology of blood vessels is significantly associated with clinical parameters. To estimate patients’ prognosis, the shape of blood vessels should also be taken into account.
Understanding the Dynamics of Digital Payment Adoption Among Public University Students of Bangladesh: A Quantitative Study
Authors: Apu Apu Chandra Das
Published: March 2024

Digital payment system has gained significant acceptability over the course of time across the world. Our daily life is being more dynamic than before due to the addition of these digital methods of payments. Bangladeshi universities are also mostly under the inclusion of digital payment system. In the current world, universities are adopting technological advancements for the modernization of their daily activities, including the adoption of digital payment systems. This study aims to investigate the utilization and effect of the digital payment system among the university students in various public universities in Bangladesh. By forming a structured questionnaire, primary data has been collected on the frequency of usage, reasons for adoption, perceived transparency compared to traditional methods of payments, impact on transaction speed, administrative burden minimization, major barriers to adoption, effect on financial management, ease of use, and potential for a shift to cashless campus.
Human resource management practices and their impact on healthcare workers’ job satisfaction and burnout in the Jordanian public sector
Authors: Athamneh Seif
Published: March 2024

This study aims to examine the link between human resource management practices and employee outcomes (job satisfaction and burnout) in Jordan’s healthcare public sector, including recruitment and selection, training and development, compensation and benefits, performance management, employee relations, and health and safety. The study utilized a stratified random sample of 600 healthcare professionals. The sample included doctors, nurses, administrative staff, and support staff from various public sector healthcare facilities across Jordan. The use of the Maslach Burnout Inventory and the Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaire allowed for a detailed assessment of burnout prevalence and levels of job satisfaction among these professionals. The results revealed a high burnout prevalence of over 98%, particularly in emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced personal achievement. Variances in burnout levels were observed across professional roles, with doctors experiencing high burnout. Job satisfaction was moderately reported, negatively correlating with age and experience. Increased emotional exhaustion and depersonalization were linked to reduced satisfaction. Noteworthy HRM practices contributing to increased job satisfaction included employee relations and health and safety. Conversely, compensation and benefits and employee relations contributed to reduced burnout.
Effects of Gamma Radiation on Microbial Load and Chemical Constituents from Stem Barks of Luehea ochrophylla
Authors: Araújo Clináscia , Silva Thiago , Siqueira Ezequias , Kohlhoff Markus , Pereira Márcio , Krambrock Klaus , Takahashi Jacqueline , Ferreira Dalva , Rocha Willian , Alcântara Antônio
Published: March 2024

Gamma radiation is an effective method for microbial decontamination of plant materials. However, this treatment can induce changes in the chemical structure of plant constituents. Stem barks of Luehea ochrophylla were exposed to different doses of gamma radiation to evaluate decontamination efficiency and changes in chemical composition of plant material including phenolic fraction. The major microbial contaminants of non-irradiated samples were isolated and identified as the fungal species Eurotium chevalieri L. Mangin and Lecythophora decumbens. The dose of 5.0 kGy was effective to achieve total decontamination of the stem barks of L. ochrophylla. The formation of free radicals was verified in the plant material using electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy, and was supposed to be related to the trans-aconitic acid, a plant constituent. It was the only secondary metabolite to have its concentration significantly altered with radiation in phenolic fraction, as observed by liquid chromatography with diode array detector coupled to mass spectroscopy (LC-DAD-MS). The trans-aconitic acid was isolated and exposed to gamma radiation in aqueous medium. Its concentration decreased after exposition to a dose of 3.0 kGy, corroborating the supposition of its degradation. Citric acid was the main radiolytic product formed by irradiation of trans-aconitic acid in the presence of water.