bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usefulness of neurological assessment scales in prognosis of meningoencephalitis of unknown origin in Yorkshire Terriers
Authors: Brewińska Laura , Banasik Aleksandra , Czopowicz Michał , Płonek Marta , Giza Elżbieta , Czerwik Adriana , Olszewska Agnieszka , Flegel Thomas , Wrzosek Marcin
Published: April 2024

Background – Attempts to determine the prognostic factors that affect the survival time of canine patients with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO) have provided highly variable results. Scaled complex ratings to predict general outcomes are required. This study aimed to determine whether neurological assessment scales could be useful in the prognosis of Yorkshire Terriers with MUO. The study population comprised 127 Yorkshire terriers who met the inclusion criteria for a highly probable diagnosis of MUO. This multicenter, cohort study was designed as a retrospective review of medical records. Based on documented neurological examinations, animals were scored on three scales: the Modified Glasgow Coma Scale, Neuro Disability Scale 1 (Smith et al.), and Neuro Disability Scale 2 (Gonçalves et al.). The association between the scores and survival time was investigated over three time periods.
Results – All scales were significantly associated (p<0.001) with MUO-specific survival and death owing to MUO within the first 7 days and had high prognostic accuracy in terms of short-term prognosis. None of the scales was significantly associated with the probability of survival after 100 or 365 days. Dogs with unilateral lesions on magnetic resonance images (MRI) had approximately 12- and 3-fold higher odds of surviving until 100 and 365 days, respectively, than dogs with bilateral lesions on MRI. Dogs heavier than 3.2 kg at presentation had approximately 6-fold higher odds of survival until day 365.
Conclusions - The study provides strong evidence for a high short-term prognostic accuracy of the three neurological assessment scales in Yorkshire Terriers with MUO – the scales seem to be very useful in predicting death within the first week of the onset of MUO. Prognostic potential of the scales disappears, however, in the longer perspective and their place is taken by the spread of pathological lesions visualized in MRI and a patient’s weight.
The construction and preliminary validation of methylation haplotype load markers of multiple genes for cervical cancer screenings
Authors: Chen Tingting , Wang Yakun , Yang Yuan , Zhang Changning , Dai Yu , Yin Jian , Chen Simiao , Li Xinyue , Pi Ruoji , Li Tingyuan , Wang Zhini , Huang Ziyue , Wang Hui , Han Lu , Ren Lina , Yang Jinghong , DU Jingchang , Chen Wen
Published: April 2024

Background
At present, there are certain deficiencies in cervical cancer screening methods. Consequently, we aimed to establish a prediction model for cervical precancerous lesions utilizing DNA methylation haplotype load (MHL) markers.
Methods
Three machine learning models, namely, a random forest model (RF), a support vector machine model (SVM), and a naive Bayes model (NB), were developed based on the performance of 47 regions in 52 HR-HPV + cervical cytology specimens. Additionally, external validation of the three models was conducted using 101 HR-HPV + cervical cytological samples.
Results
From the initial 52 samples, we derived three models with respective area under the curve (AUC) values of 0.864, 0.867 and 0.847. Subsequently, in the validation phase involving 101 samples, the RF model demonstrated superior performance compared to the E6 protein detection model and p16Ki67 model in predicting cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2 (CIN2) lesions and above. Compared with the human papillomavirus (HPV) combined with cytology triage model, the RF prediction model had a PPV of 100% and an NPV of 95.15% in the HPV16/18-positive subgroup. Within the other high-risk-HPV-positive subgroups, the PPV and NPV were 41.67% and 92.36%, respectively.
Conclusions
Our findings suggest that the methylation haplotype load markers of multiple genes offer clear advantages in screening CIN2 lesions and above in cervical cancer. Furthermore, enhancing the methylation detection method has the potential to further improve the NPV of the prediction model.
Amino-acid PET as a prognostic tool after post Stupp protocol temozolomide therapy in high-grade glioma patients
Authors: Zinsz Adeline , Ahrari Shamimeh , Becker Jason , Mortada Ali , Roch Veronique , Doriat Louis , Santi Matthieu , Blonski Marie , Taillandier Luc , Zaragori Timothée , Verger Antoine
Published: April 2024

Purpose
This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic performance of amino-acid PET in high-grade gliomas (HGG) patients at the time of temozolomide (TMZ) treatment discontinuation, after the Stupp protocol.
Methods
The analysis included consecutive HGG patients with dynamic 18F-FDOPA PET imaging within 3 months of the end of TMZ therapy, post-Stupp protocol. Static and dynamic PET parameters, responses to RANO criteria for MRI and clinical and histo-molecular factors were correlated to progression-free (PFS).
Results
Thirty-two patients (59.4 [54.0;67.6] years old, 13 (41%) women) were included. Static PET parameters peak tumor-to-background ratio and metabolic tumor volume (respective thresholds of 1.9 and 1.5mL) showed the best 84% accuracies for predicting PFS at 6 months (p = 0.02). These static PET parameters were also independent predictor of PFS in multivariate analysis (p ≤ 0.05).
Conclusion
In HGG patients having undergone a Stupp protocol, the absence of significant PET uptake after TMZ constitutes a favorable prognostic factor.
Beyond Binary: A Multi-Class Approach to Large Language Model-Generated Text Percentage Estimation
Authors: Goel Ankush , Kumar Vineet , Patra Saibal , Yadav Savita
Published: April 2024

The usage of AI in the workplace has increased to 22% of those polled, underscoring the increasing demand for the detection of AI-generated material. With an AUROC of 0.95, DetectGPT beat previous models, demonstrating its efficacy in identifying text written by LLM. Still, there are difficulties in recognizing subtleties that are typical of text generated by language models. This study presents perc-DETECTLLM, a unique method to precisely estimate the percentage of LLM- generated text by combining a zero-shot model with a Bayesian model. perc-DETECTLLM as compared to other models, shows promising results with an accuracy of 72.1% and a recall rate of 81.0%, solving the difficulties in machine-generated text detection. More than 500K samples from different domains makeup constitute our dataset, which makes thorough model training and assessment possible. Perc-DETECTLLM achieves promising text classification results by estimating the overall percentage of LLM-generated text using Bayesian inference. Ensemble techniques perform better and are used as a standard for LLM detection models. Compared to rule-based approaches, perc- DETECTLLM's data-driven methodology improves accuracy and dependability. Overall, all the experiment results are promising and could be extended to other domains, there are still difficulties with dynamic thresholding processes and perturbation function optimization, which points to areas for further study. With perc-DETECTLLM, textual content authentication in the digital age is feasible and is a substantial improvement in LLM-generated text detection.
Dietary protein levels for juvenile matrinxã Brycon amazonicus produced in biofloc and clear water systems
Authors: Cunha Rafaelle Borges , Affonso Elizabeth Gusmão , Suita Sabrina Medeiros , Silva Marcos Antônio , Abe Higo Andrade , Freitas Thiago Mendes
Published: April 2024

This study evaluated potential for rearing the matrinxã, Brycon amazonicus, under different crude protein (CP) levels, using production performance, water quality and animal welfare as indicators. To achieve this, 720 juvenile fish (3.65 ± 0.17 g) were distributed across 24 experimental units (200 L) and fee study lasted 60 days. The study followed a factorial design (2x4), with two production systems: Biofloc technology (BFT) and clear water (CW), and four levels of crude protein (CP = 24%, 30%, 36%, and 42%) in the diet, with three repetitions for each. The study found that the BFT system showed a lower total ammonia level. However, the production system did not have any effect on pH or nitrite concentration. Oxygen levels were found to be lower in the 42% CP group. Fish produced in the BFT exhibited better performance of apparent feed conversion, productivity, and survival. The production system affected total leukocytes and neutrophils in the blood. There was no significant difference in carcass crude protein content and the ether extract content was higher in the animals from the BFT system. Nutritional composition of the biofloc showed differences for ash, with lower levels in the 42% CP treatment. In conclusion, juvenile matrinxã can be fed a diet containing 30% CP in both production systems. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that biofloc did not confer a direct benefit to matrinxã juveniles in terms of their feeding, however BFT represented a promising alternative for increasing the survival and improved animal welfare during the rearing phase.
A Family-based Preventive Programme Decreases the Incidence and Severity of Early Childhood Caries in Rural Preschool Children; The Early Smiles Programme
Authors: Méndez Fabián , Duffau Natalie , Pérez Vidal , Giacaman Rodrigo A.
Published: April 2024

Our aim is to propose a novel family-based preventive programme (Early Smiles) that uses promotional and preventive early interventions in the family, to reduce the onset and severity of caries lesions in rural preschool children. After conducting a baseline cross-sectional study with 2-, 4- and 6-year-old children under traditional dental care (Control Group; n=101), a non-randomized community trial including children aged 2, 4, and 6 years from rural areas in southern Chile was devised (Intervention Group; n=107). Dental caries lesions were assessed using the ICDAS index and the dmft and caries significance index (SiC) were determined. Caries prevalence, the dmft, and SiC in 2-year-old children intervened in the Early Smiles program decreased by 73.11%, 81.50%, and 74.78% respectively (p<0.001). The number of cavitated lesions decreased significantly in 2- and 4-year-old children by 77.38% and 86.88% respectively (p<0.001). In the intervention Group, caries lesion severity in 2- and 4-year-old children presented less severe codes (ICDAS 3 and 4) than the control group. Interventions based on behavioural change, with the family, within the interdisciplinary health team, and early in life, seems to be highly effective in reducing the burden of caries lesions in 2-year-old children from rural areas.
Cumulative sum analysis of ultrasound-guided distal radial artery cannulation for invasive blood pressure monitoring: Three operators experience
Authors: Cheng Xuemei , Zhang Jie , Zhou Jiejie , Huang Ge , Xiong Jingwei
Published: April 2024

Objective: Distal radial artery (dRA) cannulation for invasive blood pressure monitoring under ultrasound (US) guidance is a technically challenging operation in adult patients. However, the learning curve for this technique has not yet been clarified. The aim of this study was to assess the learning curve of US-guided dRA cannulation among novice anesthesiologists.
Methods: We prospective included the first 180 cases who underwent US-guided dRA cannulationperformed by three third-year residents in anesthesiology from December 2022 to June 2023. Cumulative sum analysis (CUSUM) curves were created to identify the turning point (TP).
Results:The mean number of patients needed to overcome the learning curve for overall procedural time, identification time and cannulation time were all 20 cases. Subgroup analysis showed that the TP of overall procedural time was 21, 17, and 22 for operators respectively. The TP of identification time that was 21, 17, and 23 for operators respectively. The TP of cannulation time that was 18, 11, and 22 respectively. The overall procedural time, identification time and cannulation time in the post-TP group were less than in the pre-TP group. The first-attempt success rate and number of needle attempts were higher in the post-TP group. However, there was no statistically difference in the incidences of puncture-related complications.
Conclusions: The learning curve of US-guided dRA cannulation seems to stabilize after approximately successful 20 cases for inexperienced novices. Increased practice may help novice anesthesiologists to achieve proficiency faster.
An aphid pest superclone benefits from a facultative bacterial endosymbiont in a host dependent-manner
Authors: Ramirez Claudio C.
Published: April 2024

The English grain aphid, Sitobion avenae, is a significant agricultural pest affecting wheat, barley, and oats. In Chile, the most prevalent and persistent clone (superclone) of S. avenae harbours the facultative endosymbiont bacterium Regiella insecticola. To determine the role of this bacteria in the ecological success of this superclone, the presence of R. insecticola was manipulated to evaluate the impact on 1) the reproductive performance of this clone in two host plant species (wheat and barley), 2) the production of winged morphs, 3) changes in the proteomic profile of insects, and 4) root/shoot ratio of plant. It was determined that this superclone of S. avenae proliferates differentially in the host plants studied depending on the presence of the facultative bacterial endosymbiont, observing that the clone develops better in wheat when it is infected with R. insecticola while the opposite occurs when it develops in barley. Aphid biomass was higher when harbouring R. insecticola, particularly in barley. Individuals infected with R. insecticola, in both host plants, showed higher proportion of winged individuals. The protein regulation of aphids on wheat was comparatively lower and stable than that on barley. A higher root/shoot biomass ratio was detected in wheat than in oats in plants attacked with aphids harbouring R. insecticola. R. insecticola significantly affects the reproductive and proteomic performance of the S. avenae superclone, changes influenced by the host plant, suggesting that the host plant x facultative endosymbiont interaction can drive host specialization intraclonally, partly the ecological success of the superclones.
Epidemiology and Management of Surgical Thyroid Disorders: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Almustafa Ghina , Bytamoni Masa , Almasri Imad-Addin , Younes Samer , Kamil Hazem , AL-Frejat Zyad , Martini Nafiza , Hanna Majd , SARA Samer
Published: April 2024

Introduction:
Thyroid disorders, including thyroiditis, Graves' disease, and goiter, are prevalent endocrine conditions with significant clinical implications. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the epidemiology and management of surgical thyroid disorders in a local population.
Methods
This retrospective observational study was conducted at the General Surgery Department of Damascus Hospital, Syria, from 2017 to 2023. Medical records of 120 patients who underwent thyroid surgery were reviewed. Sociodemographic characteristics, medical and surgical history, diagnostic procedures, surgical techniques, pathology reports, and postoperative complications were analysed.
Results
The most common thyroid lesions were goiter (68.3%) and thyroid nodules. Females comprised 88.3% of the study population. There was no significant correlation between patient age, sex, or smoking habits and the occurrence of surgical thyroid lesions. Papillary thyroid carcinoma was the predominant malignant neoplasm. Comorbidities such as hypertension (18.3%) and a history of caesarean section (24.2%) were common. Neck ultrasonography (94.2%) and fine-needle aspiration biopsy were the primary diagnostic tools. Complete thyroidectomy (69.2%) was the most frequent surgical intervention. Permanent hypocalcemia (48.3%) was the most prevalent postoperative complication.
Conclusion
This retrospective study provides a comprehensive overview of the clinical characteristics, diagnostic approaches, and surgical management of thyroid disorders in the local population. The findings contribute to the understanding of the epidemiology and management of these common endocrine conditions.
Damage Cascade Simulation in Zirconium Nitride: A molecular dynamics study
Authors: Azeem M Mustafa
Published: April 2024

Zirconium nitride (Zr-N) is a candidate material for inert matric fuel elements in breeder reactors. They have shown exceptional resistance to radiative corrosive environments. They have shown excellent resistance to radiation stability at operational conditions in current generation reactors. But being a candidate nuclear fuel material in generation reactors, their radiation stability at higher temperature conditions observed has not been reported. We have employed molecular dynamics simulations to study the damage cascades and radiation stability of ZrN at 600K. The process of primary damage evolution by considering varying overlapping cascades with 10, 20 keV incident PKA’s reported here. The defects interface interaction and diffusion mechanism at the interface are reported.
A Study of Antibiotics Prescription Pattern in Pre, Intra & Post Operative Period to Patients Who Later Developed Surgical Site Infections in a Tertiary Care Centre.
Authors: Chavhan Vaibhav B. , Jaju J. B. , Jadhav A. D.
Published: April 2024

Introduction: Antimicrobial resistance(AMR) has emerged as major public health problem all over the world which can be controlled in paying great attention to judicious use of them. In 2012, Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) started Antibiotic Stewardship Program(ASP) to reduce Surgical site infections(SSIs) by doing right antimicrobial prophylaxis and emphasised to prevent drug resistance. Thus, we aimed to see the pattern of antibiotics prescribed in pre, intra and post-operative period to patients, who later developed SSIs.
Methodology: After local IEC-DHR approval, Data is collected using Retrospective Descriptive Type Study Design in tertiary care centre of government of Maharashtra. All patients’ medical records who undergone Surgeries performed in General Surgery, Obstetrics-Gynaecology, Orthopaedics Departments and later developed surgical site infections in post-operative period are included. Duration of Study is 6 Months (Jan’23 to Jun’23). Only antimicrobials used are recorded & Data from Prescriptions are analysed using latest versions of M.S.Excel.
Results: Total 71 case records are studied and Females found more. 19-30years of age patients are more. Antimicrobials of Third generation cephalosporins are used most frequently in Pre, Intra and post-op period. Among it, Inj. Ceftriaxone was prescribed more commonly as ‘Monocef’. Half of Antimicrobials are prescribed with Generic names and match Daily Defined Dose(DDD) recommended by WHO. Average duration of post-operative treatment was 12-13days. Antibiotics were prescribed till discharge to all.
Conclusion: In our study, case records of patients who later developed surgical site infections are studied to know Demographic profile. Type, Dose, Interval of Pre, Intra and Post-operative prophylaxis were according to ASP of India by ICMR. Prescription pattern is Most commonly Polypharmacy and Fixed Drug Combinations were preferred. I.V. was used more than P.O. Treatment modifications are done in 1/4th cases after microbiological reports of swabs of infected sites and this need to be increased.
Die Herausforderung antidemokratischer Desinformationskampagnen
Authors: Tribukait Maren , Trupp Johann
Published: April 2024

Spätestens seit dem erfolgreichen Wahlkampf Donald Trumps im Jahr 2016 werden Desinformationskampagnen weltweit als Bedrohung für Demokratien wahrgenommen. Der Beitrag fragt nach dem Ausmass der Zusammenarbeit zwischen Kreml-nahen russischen und deutschen rechtsextremen Akteur:innen, insbesondere im Hinblick auf digitale Desinformationsstrategien in Deutschland, und regt Konsequenzen für die Medienbildung an. Die Beschreibung der Verbindungen zwischen Kreml-nahen russischen und deutschen rechtsextremen Akteur:innen mithilfe des Begriffs des «politischen Feldes» (Bourdieu 2001) zeigt, dass beide Akteursgruppen ihr politisches Kapital aufwerten, indem sie sich in Differenz zu den etablierten Parteien in Deutschland positionieren und durch Gruppenbildung politisches Kapital an die jeweils andere Gruppe delegieren können. Die Analyse der Desinformationsaktivitäten im Vorfeld der Bundestagswahl 2021 arbeitet heraus, dass die Zusammenarbeit nicht vollständig erfasst werden kann, da Desinformationskampagnen zum Teil verdeckt geführt werden. Die Aktivitäten eines Hauptakteurs auf russischer Seite, RT Deutsch, zeigen jedoch die zentral gesteuerte, offene Einflussnahme Russlands im deutschen Wahlkampf und die Kooperation mit deutschen Rechtsextremen. Als zentrale Bestandteile einer angemessenen Medienbildung werden neben (1) der Vermittlung von Recherche- und Analysestrategien (2) die Förderung eines «gesunden Masses an Skeptizismus» (Lewandowsky et al. 2012, 121) gegenüber Informationsquellen, (3) die Aufklärung über Manipulationsstrategien in zeitlicher und räumlicher Nähe zur Desinformation und (4) die Verschränkung von Medienbildung und politischer Bildung empfohlen.
‹Jeden Abend Instagram, TikTok, YouTube›
Authors: Weßel André
Published: April 2024

Im Zuge von Mediatisierung und Digitalisierung nehmen digitale Medien im Alltag junger Menschen eine zentrale Rolle ein. Gleichzeitig gerät das klassische Methodenrepertoire der Kinder- und Jugendmedienforschung zunehmend an seine Grenzen, wenn es darum geht, die medial durchdrungenen Lebenswelten empirisch zu untersuchen. Diesen Bedarf an methodischer Innovation greift der Beitrag auf, indem er ein qualitatives digitales Tagebuchverfahren zur Erforschung des subjektiven Medienalltags junger Menschen vorstellt und diskutiert. Nach einer Einführung in das Medientagebuch als Forschungsinstrument wird seine konkrete Umsetzung im Forschungsprojekt DigiPäd 24/7 – Digitalisierung in Heimen und Internaten in den Blick genommen. Dort wurden im Rahmen eines qualitativen Multi-Methods-Designs über dreissig Kinder und Jugendliche ethnografisch begleitet und führten im Zuge dessen auch digitale Medientagebücher. Zentrales Element war dabei eine Messengersoftware, die das leitfadengestützte Erstellen von Beiträgen per Sprachnachricht sowie deren Kontextualisierung über den Einsatz von Emojis ermöglichte. Die Tagebucheinträge wurden in einem mehrstufigen Verfahren angefertigt und teils durch Gespräche begleitet. Insgesamt liefert das eingesetzte Verfahren profunde Einblicke in die Medienpraktiken und -repertoires der jungen Menschen in den Einrichtungen. Im Fokus des Beitrags stehen die Darstellung der entwickelten Methode im Kontext des Projekts sowie ihre Potenziale und Limitationen.
Instruments for Measuring Youth Digital Media Use
Authors: Mayen Sophie , Reinhardt Anne , Wilhelm Claudia
Published: April 2024

In the context of adolescents’ increasing engagement with digital media, accurately assessing their media usage becomes challenging. This complexity arises from factors such as heightened multitasking, shorter attention spans, and peer influence. The Mobile Experience Sampling (MES) method has emerged as an alternative in digital media research with the strong advantage of measuring media use in situ several times a day over an extensive period. However, there is a lack of research investigating how MES studies among teenagers should be set up and which specific MES tools should be used to ensure high response rates. To answer this question, we conducted a multi-method study (N = 34) comparing data quality indicators (i.e., response rate and response delay) and perceived usability of a web-based and an app-based MES tool among Austrian middle and high school students, consisting of a one-week experimental MES study followed by qualitative interviews. In the MES part, participants were notified by three beeps on three days (NMES = 306) to complete a short survey measuring their time use in the last 60 minutes. The qualitative interviews revealed that adolescents perceived both MES tools as positive regarding usability (except for installation). The MES data, however, show great differences in data quality, highlighting that the web mode generated higher response rates and fewer errors (e.g., for response delays due to technical problems) than the app mode. This study provides a deeper understanding of technological considerations that should be made when planning an MES study and offers methodological guidance for future research.
Long-term Channel Geometry Adjustments for Reference Streams in the North Carolina Piedmont
Authors: Page Jonathan L. , Doll Barbara A. , Kurki-Fox J. Jack , Donatich Sara , Jernigan Cameron
Published: April 2024

The evaluation of reference streams can inform stream restoration designs, ecological function targets, hydraulic and sediment transport regimes, and project success criteria. Reference streams are often assumed to be in a state of quasi-equilibrium, with a hydraulic geometry representing a long-term average of a channel’s form that has developed under relatively constant morphological boundary conditions. However, more rapid changes in boundary conditions, such as water or sediment discharge, bed material size, or streambank vegetation, can result in accelerated changes to channel morphology and the development of new hydraulic geometry relationships . The goal of this study was to evaluate the morphologic equilibrium of reference streams by quantifying their long-term adjustments in riffle cross-section dimensions (i.e., width, mean depth, and cross-sectional area) and discharge. Eighteen reference streams in the Piedmont of North Carolina, United States, originally assessed in 2007, were resurveyed in 2017 and 2018 (hereinafter referred to as 2018). The adjustment in riffle channel geometry was quantified and evaluated by analyzing existing boundary conditions and changes in watershed land cover and precipitation patterns. Hydraulic geometry relationships (i.e., geometry parameters and discharge versus drainage area) from 2007 and 2018 were nearly identical and no statistically significant differences were detected in bankfull discharge, cross-sectional area, width, or mean depth. Inspection of individual sites revealed bankfull cross-sectional area adjusted by 0% to 19% at most sites, however 4 urbanizing sites adjusted by more than 25%. The adjustments in discharge and area from 2007 to 2018 were significantly correlated with impervious cover, indicating channel geometry adjustments are likely the result of changes in discharge that occur as a result of changes in watershed conditions and land cover. Changes in precipitation did not appear to be drivers of adjustment, as patterns were similar during the 10.5-year period preceding each field survey in 2007 and 2018. These data were used to update the regional curve relationships, and other summary morphological data compiled can be used to help guide future stream restoration designs. The geometry adjustments and percent erosion reported for the more stable reference streams can serve as a gauge for evaluating the degree of change in channel geometry measured at both degraded and restored streams.
REDOX POTENTIAL STUDIES BASED ON SCAN-RATE ANALYSIS OF THE DIFFUSIONAL CONTROL AND DFT CALCULATIONS OF THE SCHIFF BASE [(E)-4-AMINO-3-((3,5-DI-tert-BUTYL-2- HYDROXYBENZYLIDENE)AMINO) BENZOIC ACID]
Authors: Morales-Guevara Rosaly , Páez-Hernández Dayán , Gacitúa Manuel , Fuentes Juan , Carreño Alexander
Published: April 2024

Schiff bases are diverse organic compounds with an azomethine structure (–C=N–), holding potential in both chemistry and biology. They serve as catalysts, stabilizers, and exhibit various biological activities. The molecular structure of Schiff bases influences their biological properties, including antimicrobial effects. Redox-active compounds with more negative potentials tend to be more effective against microbes. In one of our recent studies, we explored the antimicrobial properties of two Schiff bases derivatives, SB-1 ((E)-4-amino-3-((3,5-di-tert-butyl-2-hydroxybenzylidene)amino) and SB-2 ((E)-2-((4-nitrobenzilidene)amino)aniline). SB-1 showed antibacterial activity against certain Gram-positive bacteria, while SB-2 did not. The difference in their cyclic voltametric profiles, especially SB-1’s more negative reduction potential, prompted us to carry out further characterizations, including scan-rate studies, solvent analysis, and computational calculations. We found that SB-1, which presents a stable intramolecular hydrogen bond, undergoes irreversible oxidation, likely at the –NH2 group, and a quasi-reversible reduction via an intramolecular reductive coupling of the (–C=N–) azomethine group, supported by orbital theoretical calculations. This research sheds light on the potential applications of Schiff bases in antimicrobial contexts, guided by their redox properties and structure.
A study on the division and determination of characteristic indexes of underground reservoirs under inclined bottom plates
Authors: Teng Xiaomin , Li Wanglin , Yu Shiqing , Li Xupeng
Published: April 2024

In recent years, the slope of the bottom plate of the underground reservoir in the loose porous medium constructed in the middle and upper reaches of the river is relatively large, which makes the underground water surface incline to a certain slope as a whole, near-horizontal section will appear in front of the underground dam during continuous recharge. Given this situation, the definition and calculation of the characteristic index of the underground reservoir in line with the actual changes are carried out. The characteristic water level of the underground reservoir is defined based on the groundwater surface with a certain slope at the inclined level in the case of the lower dam (single dam) impoundment. The characteristic capacity is calculated through the water level at the typical section defined by the inclined surface. A new set of definition and calculation method based on the characteristic index of the underground reservoir with a dam on the inclined bottom plates is proposed and applied to the Rushan River underground reservoir, which more accurately reflects the water level change and the corresponding actual reservoir capacity during the operation of the underground reservoir.
AMAZÔNIA: SEM SOCIAL NÃO TEM AMBIENTAL
Authors: Scannavino Caetano
Published: April 2024

O artigo examina as desigualdades que afetam a região Norte, especialmente no estado da Amazônia e as políticas que as fazem persistir. Aborda a necessidade de alianças e estratégias diferenciadas que compensem devidamente a logística onerosa e atendam aos contextos amazônicos. Apresenta o desafio de conciliar conservação, inclusão social, crescimento econômico e o desenvolvimento da Amazônia com o objetivo de propor soluções para o desenvolvimento econômico, social e ambiental da Amazônia brasileira.
Pharmacological and Therapeutic Potential of Berbamine: A Potent
Alkaloid from Genus Berberis
Authors: Muhammad Gulzar , Hussain Muhammad Ajaz , Shafiq Zahid , Ashraf Adnan , Shafique Umer , Khan Ajmal , Khalid Asaad , Hussain Javid , Al-Harrasi Ahmed
Published: April 2024

Berbamine (Ber) is an active medicinal bisbenzylisoquinoline alkaloid, which is usually obtained from different plants of the genus Berberis (family Berberidaceae) and is used to cure
various disorders in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic systems of medicine. Numerous in-vitro
and in-vivo studies revealed the apoptotic and cytotoxic potential of Ber against different cell
lines (SMMC-7721, A549, MDA-MB-231, and K562) by upregulating pro-apoptotic (Bax, p53)
and downregulating anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2, survivin) proteins. Other pharmacological attributes
ascribed to Ber included cardioprotective, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antimalarial, antioxidant, anti-hypercholesterolemic, and anti-allergic. Moreover, the synergistic effect of Ber improved the therapeutic potential of different drugs (paclitaxel (PTL), gemcitabine, dexamethasone, doxorubicin (DOX), and celecoxib) in different models. Various attempts could fabricate
biologically active derivatives of Ber, such as 4-chlorobenzoyl berbamine (CBB) and O-4-
ethoxyl-butyl-berbamine (EBB). The review focuses on the medicinal applications of Ber, particularly anti-cancer, cardioprotective, and anti-inflammatory, along with the mechanism of action.
Albiflorin Inhibits Advanced Glycation End Products-Induced ROS and
MMP-1 Expression in Gingival Fibroblasts
Authors: Gao Linlin , Fu Wenqi , Liu Yanyan , Fan Lili , Liu Shiwei , Zhang Nan
Published: April 2024

Background:

Periodontitis is a common complication of diabetes, with advanced glycation
end products (AGEs) playing a key role in its pathogenesis. Albiflorin, a monoterpene glycoside,
has shown potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This study aims to investigate
the effects of albiflorin on AGEs-induced gingival fibroblasts and its underlying mechanisms.

Objective:

This study aimed to evaluate the role of albiflorin in mitigating ROS production, inflammation,
and MMP-1 expression in AGEs-induced gingival fibroblasts.

Methods:

The viability of gingival fibroblasts treated with albiflorin and AGEs was assessed using
CCK-8 assays. ROS levels were measured by DCF staining, and the expression of inflammatory
markers and MMP-1 was evaluated by ELISA and qPCR. The involvement of the NF-κB and
Nrf2 pathways was examined by immunoblotting.

Results:

Albiflorin enhanced the viability of AGEs-induced gingival fibroblasts and reduced ROS
production. It also decreased the expression of IL-6, IL-8, RAGE, and MMP-1, suggesting an anti-
inflammatory effect. Mechanistically, albiflorin modulated the NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways in
AGEs-induced gingival fibroblasts.

Conclusion:

Albiflorin exhibited protective effects against AGEs-induced oxidative stress and inflammation
in gingival fibroblasts, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic agent for periodontitis
in diabetic patients. The modulation of the NF-κB and Nrf2 pathways by albiflorin provides insight
into its mechanism of action.
Towards Early Intervention: Detecting Parkinson's Disease through Voice Analysis with Machine Learning
Authors: Swain K.P. , Samal S. R. , Ravi Vinayakumar , Nayak Soumya Ranjan , Alahmadi Tahani Jaser , Singh Prabhishek , Diwakar Manoj
Published: April 2024

Introduction/ Background

This study aims to utilize machine learning algorithms for early detection of Parkinson's Disease (PD) through voice recording analysis. Employing advanced machine learning techniques and a comprehensive dataset of voice samples, the objective is to develop a non-invasive, accurate, and reliable method for PD diagnosis, contributing to early intervention and management of the disease.

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder impacting millions globally. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective management and treatment. This study leverages Machine Learning (ML) algorithms to analyze voice recordings, aiming to improve PD detection.

Materials and Methods

We utilized a dataset of 195 voice samples with 23 attributes, applying machine learning algorithms such as Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), Support Vector Machine (SVM), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). The dataset was preprocessed, balanced, and evaluated using various performance metrics.

Results

The K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) model demonstrated superior performance, achieving
high precision (0.96-1.00), recall (0.97-1.00), and F1-scores (0.98-0.99) for both PD and non-PD classes, demonstrating an overall accuracy of 0.98 across 59 samples. This showcases its effectiveness in PD detection via voice analysis.

Discussion

This research underscores the potential of ML in revolutionizing PD detection through non-invasive methods. By comparing various algorithms, the study not only identifies the most effective model but also contributes to the broader understanding of applying ML techniques in healthcare.

Conclusion

The study's findings advocate for the KNN model as a promising tool for early and accurate PD diagnosis through voice analysis. The success of this model opens avenues for future research, including the exploration of more advanced algorithms and the integration of these models into practical diagnostic applications.
Exploration of Clinical Learning Challenges among Moroccan Undergraduate Nursing Students
Authors: Essfadi Hind , Khyati Abderahim , Abidi Omar , Radid Mohamed
Published: April 2024

Background

Clinical learning is an essential component of nursing education. It strongly contributes to the acquisition of students’ clinical skills and enables them to link theory to practice. However, clinical learning is considered a challenging experience for undergraduate nursing students.

Objective

The study aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of the challenges experienced by undergraduate nursing students during their training in different clinical settings.

Methods

This study utilized a phenomenological qualitative design with data collected through semi-structured interviews. Thirty-four nursing students from the second and third years were interviewed between March and July 2023. The qualitative data were analyzed using thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke's six-step model.

Results and Discussion

The findings of the study revealed that all participants had experienced several challenges during their clinical learning, which had a negative impact on their skill development. As a result, four main themes emerged regarding the challenges associated with clinical learning, including the theory-practice gap, the unsupportive clinical environment, the lack of supervision and support, and the inappropriate scheduling of internships. Ultimately, all participants recognized the need for changes to be made to enhance learning in clinical settings.

Conclusion

The present study has concluded that Moroccan nursing students face numerous challenges when learning in clinical settings. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing guidelines for Moroccan nursing educators to effectively guide and support their students in clinical areas. Therefore, based on the findings of this study, further discussions regarding potential changes and future research can be conducted.
Examining Fetal Growth Biometrics and Last Menstrual Period Correlation in Minangkabau Ethnicity during Third Trimester Ultrasound
Authors: j Yusrawati , Serudji Joserizal , Utama Bobby Indra , Sari Puspita
Published: April 2024

Background

Fetal growth significantly impacts well-being and health outcomes at birth, exerting a profound influence on the occurrence of perinatal complications and mortality rates.

Aim

This study aims to establish normal fetal growth data based on biometric variations in the Minangkabau ethnic group.

Methods

An analytical cross-sectional study focusing on pregnant women who underwent pregnancy check-ups was conducted in December 2020.

Results

A total of 520 pregnant women had third trimester ultrasounds. Most were aged 21-39 with one parity, had a senior high school education, and were unemployed. The strongest correlation (R=0.86) was between the last menstrual period (LMP) and biparietal diameter (BPD), while the weakest (R=0.79) was between LMP and head length (HL). All variables were highly significant (p<0.05).

Conclusions

Fetal growth biometrics (BPD, FL, HC, AC, and HL) were associated with LMP of third trimester ultrasound pregnancy on Minangkabau ethnic.
Analysis of Coping Strategies and Self-Stigma Among People Living with HIV (PLHIV): A Cross Sectional Study
Authors: Amal Ahmad Ikhlasul , Sukartini Tintin , Kurniawati Ninuk Dian , Sulistyaningsih Dwi Retno , Suyanto Suyanto , Wahyuningsih Indah Sri
Published: April 2024

Introduction

People living with HIV (PLHIV) generally experience physical and psychological stress, often including self-stigma, which impedes their ability to seek treatment and reveal their status. Implementing effective coping strategies helps them manage these impacts on well-being. However, research that explores coping strategies and self-stigma in newly diagnosed people with HIV in Indonesia is still limited.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between coping strategies and self-stigma in people living with HIV.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Poncol and Halmahera Public Health Centers in Semarang City, Indonesia, involving 150 PLHIV diagnosed for no more than one year. This study used the Way of Coping Questionnaire and Self-Stigma Questionnaire as instruments. Data were analyzed using the Sommers test.

Results

The majority of respondents, accounting for 64.7%, had low coping strategies, while 74% experienced self-stigma in the high category. The correlation test results revealed a p-value of 0.001 with a correlation strength of 0.375, falling within the moderate category.

Conclusion

It is concluded that there is a relationship between coping strategies and self-stigma among PLHIV.
Electrocardiogram-based Emotion Recognition using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Rahul Mayur , Tyagi Devvrat , Kumar Rajesh , Khan Mohammad Ilyas , Pal Parashu ram , Yadav Vikash
Published: April 2024

Introduction:

Electrocardiogram-based facial emotion identification has been a widely
spread field in the last few decades. Due to its non-linearity, non-stationary and noisy properties, it
is a very difficult job to create a framework that is capable of recognizing emotions with a high
recognition rate.

background:

Electrocardiogram based facial emotion identification has been widely spread field in last some decades. Due to its non-linearity, non-stationary and noisy properties, it is very difficult job to create a framework that is capable of recognizing emotions with high recognition rate.

Method:

In this work, we introduce a new framework for facial emotion detection based on feature
creation using a topographic representation of ECG signal properties. The feature map is created
using deep learning techniques, and further, extricated features are then used for classification
techniques to detect facial emotion recognition.

Result:

The recognition results are achieved on two publicly available facial expression datasets,
i.e., Ascertain and Dreamer. We illustrated the usefulness of our framework by comparing results
with other existing methods.

Conclusion:

The recognition results prove that the introduced framework can enhance the identifying
rate on various given datasets.
Superhydrophobic Materials for Self-cleaning Applications: A Review
Authors: Li Zijie , Tang Jinjing , Xia Youtao , Liu Jiangnan , Duan Haichao , Yang Daolong
Published: April 2024

Since the discovery of the “lotus effect,” the superhydrophobic structure of
the research is more and more profound. When the droplets fall on the surface, it will
not occur as a wetting phenomenon. Making full use of this feature will achieve the
self-cleaning effect of the object surface. In the dust filtration problem, it is possible
to spray superhydrophobic materials on the surface of the equipment using superhydrophobic
self-cleaning characteristics to change the filtering method and to improve
the self-cleaning efficiency. This paper describes the methods of preparing superhydrophobic
materials, self-cleaning methods, and the application of superhydrophobic
materials in the field of self-cleaning. Based on the summary of patents and papers,
this paper focuses on the filtration and self-cleaning effect of superhydrophobic materials
on dust particles in humid environments. With a simple structure, high filtration
efficiency, and long service life, the super sparse/hydrophilic hybrid mesh can work
continuously without manual operation. It can effectively filter dust particles and improve
air quality in humid environments. Coal powder condensation experiments in
this paper proved that the application of superhydrophobic materials in the field of
self-cleaning yielded significant results. When superhydrophobic materials are
sprayed on copper-based filters, the hydrophilic line mixes with the hydrophobic region,
greatly improving the self-cleaning efficiency.
Theoretical and Numerical Investigation of the Effective Mechanical Properties of an Arc Star-Shaped Auxetic Honeycomb
Authors: Huang Q.W. , Zhang H.H. , Ji X.L. , Han S.Y.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Auxetic honeycombs have attracted a lot of attention due to
their excellent properties, including lightweight, and outstanding impact resistance
and energy absorption.

Methods:

This study focuses on a new type of arc star-shaped honeycomb (ASSH) by
replacing the tip angles of the classical star-shaped honeycomb (SSH) with curved
edges. The theoretical expressions of the effective Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus
are deduced by using the Timoshenko beam theory and energy method. Furthermore,
the numerical model is also established through the Finite Element Method
(FEM); then, both the analytical and computational approaches are adopted to conduct
parametric analysis.

Results:

It was found that the effective mechanical properties obtained by theoretical
analysis and the FEM are consistent with each other, and ASSH bears tunable effective
Poisson’s ratio and Young’s modulus under varying geometric configurations.

Conclusion:

The present work may provide some guidance for the design and analysis
of future auxetic honeycombs.
The Body Hack: Bringing the mRNA of COVID-19 Vaccines to the Right Cells at the Right Places
Authors: Boretti Alberto
Published: April 2024

Background:

mRNA COVID-19 vaccines employ messenger RNA (mRNA) to convey
instructions to cells in our bodies, prompting them to generate a viral protein. These vaccines are
administered via injection, typically into the upper arm muscle. The mRNA is encapsulated within
lipid nanoparticles, safeguarding it and facilitating its entry into cells.

Method:

The literature about the specific cells and places where the mRNA of COVID-19 vaccines
is supposed to work following injection in the upper arm is reviewed.

Results:

The pre-COVID-19 literature indicates that the absorption of mRNA primarily takes place
not at the injection site in the arm muscle, but rather in the lymph nodes downstream from the injection
site and in the spleen. Lipid nanoparticles could potentially accumulate in the liver as well. As
the narrative promoted by Western media and authorities claims that the mRNA is immediately released
by the lipidic nanoparticles and exclusively operates within specific cells at the injection site
before being quickly discharged, consequently, the post-COVID-19 literature has become less explicit
on this matter, as censorship has hampered open discussion within the scientific community.

Conclusions:

The mRNA of COVID-19 vaccines has always been supposed to work in the lymph
nodes downstream of the place of injection and the spleen. This may explain the large number of
unintended effects recorded following administration of mRNA COVID-19 vaccines.