bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sedimentological and Paleopedological Investigations of the Middle Jurassic FE Concentrations of Central Sardinia (Italy): Paleoclimatic, Paleoenvironmental and Paleotectonic Consequences
Authors: Costamagna Luca Giacomo , Vacca Andrea
Published: February 2024

In Central Sardinia (Italy), sub-economic concentrations of iron ore are diffuse along and close to the Middle Jurassic “Alpine Tethyan Unconformity”, featured by Variscan metamorphic rocks covered by the unconformable Middle Jurassic Genna Selole Fm. Sedimentological and paleopedological investigations have been carried out to assess the areal extent and the nature of those concentrations, their origins, and their paleoclimatic, paleoenvironmental, and paleotectonic meanings. Transformation processes showing complex features such as alteration halos, mineral dissolution, reprecipitation, or pedogenetic profiles have been documented. Thus, several processes suggesting phases of variable duration of uplift, exposition to the external agents and erosion of the Variscan basement, and periods of sediment starvation of the superposed Genna Selole Fm deposits have been noted. Additionally, pedological processes occurred during the slowing down of the superposed Genna Selole Fm sedimentation. The alteration deposits differ according to their stratigraphic location. They are from solid, discrete masses to thin beds, crusts, and veins of Fe oxides. They may be of supergenic origin or related to sedimentary processes. The paleosols are Plinthosols related to warm-humid climates with a short dry season. These results provide additional data to 1) better define the depositional environments of the Genna Selole Fm, 2) indicate the episodic presence of ephemeral subarid periods in a dominantly humid Jurassic climate, and 3) document the tectonic evolution of a well-delimited area during this period. This investigation shows how the interdisciplinary use of sedimentological and paleopedological data can be helpful for paleotectonic, paleoenvironmental, and paleoclimatic reconstructions.
Utilization of Cardiac Point-of-care Ultrasonography in Evaluating a Case of Heart Failure Secondary to an Intracardiac Mass, a Case Report
Authors: AlQarni Najeeb , Almalki Faisal Ghazi , Algrigri Osama
Published: February 2024

Intracardiac mass is a rare medical emergency and may present with signs of heart failure like syncope. We report a case of a previously well child who presented with a history of cardiac syncope, with other symptoms of heart failure. Using cardiac point-of-care ultrasound, we were able to identify sonographic signs of heart failure and also to accidentally identify a mass in the right ventricle. Confirmation was followed using echocardiography, computed tomography angiography, and cardiac magnetic resonant imaging. The patient underwent medical treatment for his heart failure and then surgical removal and histopathological examination of the mass which was found to be an organized hematoma. A cardiac point-of-care ultrasound has been emerging as a readily available tool to evaluate global cardiac systolic function and both ventricle size for emergency physicians. Mitral valve closure is the main goal for using focused cardiac point-of-care ultrasound in the emergency department but assessing other valves in terms of closure, appearance, and regurgitation can also be addressed. We suggest in our case some modification to the view of cardiac point-of-care ultrasound that may be used by pediatric emergency medicine physicians to visualize any pathologies to the pulmonic.
A penetrating aortic ulcer rapidly evolving into aortic dissection in a patient presenting with respiratory tract infection to the emergency department: an acute aortic syndrome case report
Authors: Karaki Victoria Al , Saab Aed
Published: February 2024

Background: Penetrating aortic ulcers (PAU) are life-threatening conditions which derive from severely advanced atherosclerotic lesions of the aorta. The clinical course is unpredictable; thus clinical vigilance should be maintained. It is very challenging to separate PAU from co-existing AAS as predisposing factors and findings overlap.
Case presentation: Case of 58-year-old gentleman, who presented for atypical chest pain in the setting of respiratory tract infection. Computed Tomographic angiography (CTA) of the chest showed a large PAU and intramural hematoma which rapidly progressed into an acute aortic dissection in the emergency department. Close follow up with cardiac point of care ultrasound one hour later detected an intimal flap which was not initially present on CTA. Patient underwent surgical aortic graft replacement and had an uneventful in-hospital stay.
Conclusions: This case underlines the importance of broadening differential diagnoses in atypical presentations in chest pain patients with risk factors. Prompt intervention and careful management are imperative to optimize patient outcomes and prevent complications of aortic lesions. Cardiac point of care ultrasound can help in detecting progression of dynamic atherosclerotic diseases such as acute aortic syndrome.
Optimal Harmonic Mitigation Technique for High Power IM Drives
Authors: Yadav Shivam , Mallik Sanjeev Kumar , Mishra Ambarisha
Published: February 2024

The reduction of harmonic torque and ripples in low-switching VFI-based induction motor (IM) drives is a crucial consideration for improving efficiency, service life, drive damage, potential shaft failure for high power/speed drives and overall performance. In literature, existing solutions to these issues involve the implementation of standardized pulse width modulation (PWM) techniques such as sinusoid modulation technique PWM (SMT-PWM) and selective harmonic reduction PWM (SHR-PWM). However, this research proposes a P-PWM-based approach to address the reduction of harmonic magnitude and torque ripple in low-switching VFI-based IM drives. The proposed P-PWM-based approach is specifically applied for three and four-angle switching per quarter cycle (Aq), targeting the reduction of lower-order harmonic magnitude and torque ripples ranging from 6th to 6(Aq-1)th order. By relying on independent specifications and loading states, the P-PWM approach accommodates different Aq and higher-order harmonics. Extensive comparisons with SMT-PWM and SHR-PWM, supported by findings from a 1hp VFI-based IM drive using a TYPHOON-HIL-based hardware setup, demonstrate the superior performance of the P-PWM approach in terms of reducing the harmonic magnitude and torque ripples.
Enablers and barriers to delivering tailored, whole-person care in general practice for people living with multimorbidity: implications for service redesign
Authors: Megson Molly , Hilton Andrea , Aryankhesal Aidin , Blake Jessica , Killett Anne , Horik Jayden Van , Fox Chris , Reeve Joanne
Published: February 2024

Background: Growing numbers of people live with multimorbidity. Healthcare needs to change to adequately address the complexity and burden of their needs Research, practice and policy have called for a shift to whole-person, tailored primary care management of multimorbidity. But we still don’t know how best to do that. Our previous research described a theoretical model of tailored primary care. In this new work, we critically examine if and how front-line practice supports and develops our proposed model and so comment on the implications for practice
Methods: Focused ethnography of 5 UK GP sites, conducting 100 hours of observations, focus groups and mini-interviews. Two-stage analysis: i) inductive thematic analysis of full data set to describe enablers/barriers to tailored care; ii) normalisation process theory informed analysis of implications to present a new implementation model.
Results: We identified three elements needed to enables tailored management : (i) resources for exploration of and practical support for beyond biomedical management of multi-morbidities, (ii) engagement of patients/carers with professional collaboration to co-create tailored management plans, and (iii) the professional training and skills required to confidently work beyond traditional condition-focused models
Conclusions: Our work supports and extends our previous work, describing the elements needed for implementation of the complex intervention needed to deliver tailored generalist management of multimorbidity in primary care. We describe our ongoing work to test the assumptions of the model within a new study of care for people living with dementia
Civilians under missile attack: Post-traumatic stress disorder among the Jewish and Bedouin population of Southern Israel
Authors: Shvartsur Rachel , Savitsky Bella
Published: February 2024

Background
Over the past 20 years, Jewish and Bedouin civilians in southern Israel have faced the ongoing threat of missile attacks from Gaza, with possible mental health consequences. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among Jewish and Bedouin adult civilians in southern Israel in a period with few missile attacks from Gaza, and no military operations.
Methods
The study population included 389 participants (246 Jews, 143 Bedouins) living within 40 km/25 mi from Gaza for at least two years and interviewed between January and March 2023 (before the ongoing war that started on October 7th, 2023). The PTSD Checklist (PCL-5) was used, with a score of 33 as a cutoff point for the presence of PTSD.
Results
Compared to Jews, a significantly lower proportion of Bedouins reported accessibility to bomb shelters and siren warning systems. Overall, 20.3% of the respondents exhibited PTSD. Multivariate analysis revealed that after adjustment for demographic and household characteristics, Bedouins had a seven-fold significantly higher probability of PTSD in comparison to Jews (OR = 6.9, 95%CI: 3.6–13.1). Compared to participants with high socioeconomic status (SES), participants with low SES had a six-fold significantly higher probability of PTSD (OR = 5.8, 95%CI: 2.1–16.5). Being single, living in urban areas, or having a disability significantly increased the probability of PTSD.
Conclusions
The findings of this study demonstrate elevated levels of PTSD among both Jewish and Bedouin civilians residing in southern Israel, with a significantly higher prevalence among the Bedouin population. Several sociodemographic characteristics were associated with the increased prevalence of PTSD, the most prominent of which was low SES. Healthcare professionals and authorities should be proactive in screening for PTSD, and provide tailored treatment and support, taking into account ethnical and cultural background. Authorities should address the disparity in bomb shelter access and siren warning coverage between Bedouin and Jewish communities.
Masking influences: A systematic review of placebo control and blinding in psychedelic studies
Authors: Barstowe Aleksandra , Kajonius Petri J.
Published: February 2024

Psychedelic-assisted therapy is becoming increasingly acknowledged as an effective therapeutic intervention for various psychiatric illnesses. However, the evaluation of blinding success is rarely reported in trials. The objective of the present systematic review was to evaluate placebo-control and blinding in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Nine studies dating between January 2010 until March 2023 were retrieved following strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. The results show that all studies had either poor or uncertain blinding success, and all studies that used an active placebo control had poor blinding success. In other words, we cannot exclude the possibility of masking influences. For instance, this may lead to those receiving placebo having less expectations of treatment, resulting in a smaller placebo effect, and in turn the appearance of a more effective treatment than is the case. We recommend care be taken to increase successful blinding procedures, and we discuss alternative treatment designs to better control for potential masking influences.
Liposome-lentivirus hybrid carriers for miRNA therapy of liver cancer stem cells with molecular mechanism study on tumor progression hamper effects
Authors: Sun Fen , Chen Huaqing , Dai Xiaoyong , Hou Yibo , Li Jing , Zhang Yinghe , Huang Laiqiang , Guo Bing , Yang Dongye
Published: February 2024

Background: Cancer stem cells (CSCs) play a vital role in the occurrence, maintenance, and recurrence of solid tumors. Although, miR-145-5p can inhibit CSCs survival, poor understanding of the underlying mechanisms hamperes further therapeutic optimization for patients. Lentivirus with remarkable transduction efficiency is the most commonly used RNA carrier in research, but has shown limited tumor-targeting capability.
Methods: We have applied liposome to decorate lentivirus surface thereby yielding liposome-lentivirus hybrid-based carriers, termed miR-145-5p-lentivirus nanoliposome (MRL145), and systematically analyzed their potential therapeutic effects on liver CSCs (LCSCs).
Results: MRL145 exhibited high delivery efficiency and potent anti-tumor efficacy under in vitro and in vivo. Mechanistically, the overexpressed miR-145-5p can significantly suppress the self-renewal, migration, and invasion abilities of LCSCs by targeting Collagen Type IV Alpha 3 Chain (COL4A3). Importantly, COL4A3 can promote phosphorylating GSK-3β at ser 9 (p-GSK-3β S9) to inactivate GSK3β, and facilitate translocation of β-catenin into the nucleus to activate the Wnt/β-catenin pathway, thereby promoting self-renewal, migration, and invasion of LCSCs. Interestingly, COL4A3 could attenuate the cellular autophagy through modulating GSK3β/Gli3/VMP1 axis to promote self-renewal, migration, and invasion of LCSCs.
Conclusions: These findings provide novel insights in mode of action of miR-145-5p in LCSCs therapy and indicates that liposome-virus hybrid carriers hold great promise in miRNA delivery.
Acquisition of a single stranded DNA plant virus differentially alters methylation patterns in two cryptic species of a hemipteran vector
Authors: Catto Michael , Ghosh Saptarshi , Pandey Sudeep , Mondal Banani , Simmons Alvin , Hunt Brendan , Sriniva Rajagopalbabu
Published: February 2024

Epigenetic patterns including DNA methylation are known to vary between distantly related species, but it is not clear how these patterns differ at an intraspecific level. The sweetpotato whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Aleyrodidae; Hemiptera), encompasses several cryptic species. These cryptic species possess highly similar genomes but exhibit substantial biological and physiological differences. B. tabaci cryptic species are invasive, highly polyphagous, and transmit an array of plant infecting single stranded DNA viruses (ssDNA) –begomoviruses. In this study, DNA methylation patterns around genes and genomic features of two prominent B. tabaci cryptic species were investigated following acquisition of a monopartite ssDNA virus –tomato yellow curl virus. The cryptic species investigated included: B (also known as Middle East Asia Minor 1) and Q (also known as Mediterranean). Genomic features, such as promoters, gene bodies, and transposable elements were assessed for methylation levels in both B and Q cryptic species. Differentially methylated regions within predominantly unique genes were identified in B and Q cryptic species, respectively. All differentially methylated regions were assessed for differential gene expression and alternative splicing events with and without virus acquisition. The differentially expressed genes were further grouped into hyper- and hypomethylated clusters. These clusters included genes with implications for virus-vector interactions including immune functions and xenobiotics’ detoxification. The observed DNA methylation pattern differences within each cryptic species could, in part, explain some of the biological and physiological differences between them.
RETRACTED: Coagulation and Fibrinolytic Markers Offer Utility when Distinguishing Between Benign and Malignant Gallbladder Tumors: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Huang Long , Fan Ruizhi , Hao Tingting , Zhang Shuai , Sun Bin , Xu Yinhai , Li Shibao , Feng Yifan
Published: February 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
A precise NRT plan is necessary when using snus as a smoking cessation medication
Authors: Li Peng , Zhou Jian , Zhang Jie , Zeng Shitong , Wang Dingzhong , Xu Xiujuan , Sun Shihao
Published: February 2024

Introduction:
Snus, a smokeless tobacco product with low nitrosamine content, is used as one of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) treatments. How's the efficacy of snus for smoking cessation? Two factors affect the efficiency of quitting smoking. Internal factor is personal physical condition. External factor is the condition of snus. Usually, the bioavailable dose of nicotine from snus is considered as 100%. However, it's not. Actually, the bioavailable dose of nicotine differs significantly /extremely among different brands. A chemanalysis method makes the bioavailability evaluation of nicotine come true. Depending on the data of nicotine bioavailable dose, the general practitioner could make a precise plan for different quitter. Then, a precise NRT plan will lead to a higher effective in increasing quit rates.
Methods:
Nicotine bioavailability includes 3 parts: nicotine release amount (µg), nicotine instant release rate (µg/s) and nicotine release profile. All data of the bioavailable dose of nicotine from snus were detected on a nicotine dissolution analyzer. Also, total nicotine content, pH, un-ionised nicotine content were determined followed normal chemanalysis motheds.
Results:
We have generated new information on comparative nicotine release behavior from different snus. Although the measured nicotine content in 21 samples differed by about 5 times, the range of variation could be as great as 30-fold when estimate of nicotine bioavailability was calculated.
Conclusions:
Based on the differences in nicotine release behavior and bioavailability dose data of various brands of snus, combined with different individual needs, general practitioners can recommend smokers to use the most appropriate snus products and formulate an accurate personalized NRT plan.
Bodipy Based Iridium and Ruthenium Complexes: Synthesis, Photophysical and Photochemical Properties
Authors: Cabir Beyza , Cetindere Seda
Published: February 2024

The design, synthesis, and characterization of novel BODPY based iridium and ruthenium complexes were reported. The structures of new compounds were fully characterized by FT-IR, MALDI-TOF Mass analysis, 1H, and 19F NMR spectroscopies. Precursor BODIPY was characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction technique for the first time. Photophysical properties including absorption and emission profiles and fluorescence lifetimes were investigated via UV–vis absorption and fluorescence emission spectroscopy. Photochemical properties were investigated via direct method and the singlet oxygen production capabilities of new complexes were determined by NIR phosphorescence methods. BODIPY-based ruthenium complex more efficient at producing 1O2 than that of the BODIPY-based iridium complex. Besides, both complexes showed more remarkable photosensitization ability than some commonly used photosensitizer based on BODIPY derivatives. This study points out that novel complexes are effective 1O2 photosensitizers that might be used for different application areas like as photodynamic therapy.
Primary ovarian lymphoma misdiagnosed as epithelial carcinoma: a case report and literature review
Authors: sun mingjun , ma zhenqin , Jiang Chunmei , Zhang Shan , Zhang Meng , Guo Yuzhen
Published: February 2024

Background
Primary DLBCL of the ovary is an uncommon malignant ovarian tumor. Its pathogenesis is unclear. Clinical symptoms and auxiliary exams show little specificity. Diagnosis is difficult before surgery. It is frequently misdiagnosed as other malignant ovarian tumors. Misdiagnosis frequently leads to excessive therapy.
Patient presentation
A 51-year-old patient with abdominal pain for two months and an abdominal mass for one week was admitted to the hospital. The patient had no vaginal bleeding or fluid; no fever, chills, night sweats, or weight loss; and no obvious medical or family history. When a diagnosis of an ovarian malignant tumor was considered, we performed double adnexectomy plus adnexectomy, hysterectomy, greater omentectomy, and partial peritonectomy. Postoperative pathology revealed DLBCL of the ovary, an anaplastic center-like subtype. The patient subsequently received two cycles of chemotherapy with the R-CHOP regimen. The patient's condition improved after chemotherapy, with no signs of disease progression, and she was considered for continuation of chemotherapy with the original regimen.
Conclusions
We reviewed the patient’s clinical data and literature to improve practitioners' understanding of the disease and prevent misdiagnosis and overtreatment.
Deciphering the Coordinated Roles of Host Genome, Duodenal Mucosal Genes, and Microbiota in Regulating Complex Traits in Chicken
Authors: Lan Fangren , Zhou Qianqian , Li Xiaochang , Jin Jiaming , Zhang Wenxin , Wen Chaoliang , Wu Guiqin , Li Guangqi , Yan Yiyuan , Sun Congjiao , Yang Ning
Published: February 2024

The complex interactions between host genetics and the gut microbiome are well recognized; however, the specific impact of gene expression pattern and microbial composition on each other remains to be further explored. Here we investigated this complex interplay within a sizable population of 705 hens, employing integrative analyses to examine the relationships among host genetics, mucosal gene expression, and the gut microbiota. Specific microbial taxa exhibited a strong adherence to the host genomic variants, particularly in the cecum such as the Christensenellaceae family with a heritability (h2) of 0.365. We proposed a novel concept regulatability (\({r}_{b}^{2}\)), which was derived from h2, to quantify the cumulative effects of gene expression on the given phenotypes. The duodenal mucosal transcriptome emerged as a potent influencer of duodenal microbial taxa, with exceptionally higher \({r}_{b}^{2}\) values (0.17 ± 0.01, mean ± SE) compared to h2 (0.02 ± 0.00). Through a comparative analysis of chickens and humans, we revealed similar average microbiability (m2) values of 0.18 and 0.20, and significant distinctions in average \({r}_{b}^{2}\) values (0.17 vs 0.04). Notably, cis heritability (\({h}_{cis}^{2}\)) quantifies the impact of genetic variations proximal to a gene on its expression, while trans heritability (\({h}_{trans}^{2}\)) assesses the influence of distant genetic variations. Higher \({h}_{trans}^{2}\) values compared to \({h}_{cis}^{2}\), and a greater prevalence of trans-regulated genes over cis-regulated ones underscored the significant role of loci outside the cis-window in shaping gene expression levels. Furthermore, our exploration into the regulation of duodenal mucosal genes and microbiota on 18 complex traits enhanced our understanding of their regulatory mechanism, in which gene CHST14 and its regulatory relationships with Lactobacillus salivarius jointly facilitated the deposition of abdominal fat. This study has enhanced our understanding of host-microbe dynamics, which helps to devise strategies to modulate host-microbe interactions for improving economic traits in chicken.
The ability of Arabidopsis to recover from Basta and its application in isolating Cas9-free mutants
Authors: Ahmed Shahbaz , Hulbert Anna K. , Xin Xin , Neff Michael M.
Published: February 2024

Background
After successfully performing Agrobacterium-mediated CRISPR-Cas9-based gene editing in plants, isolation of the Cas9 T-DNA is essential for the stable inheritance of induced mutations.
Results
Here, we report a simple technique that allows the isolation of Cas9-free mutants, eliminating the need for outcrossing or other intricate methods such as grafting. This method is based on the ability of Basta-sensitive Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings, which generally perish, to recover and grow once transplanted to Basta-free growth media. By growing gene-edited heterozygous populations of single-locus insertion Basta-resistant plants on Basta selection media, plants lacking the Cas9 T-DNA can be identified. These necrotic-looking plants lacking Cas9 are then rescued on media lacking the Basta to recover Cas9-free plants. The ability of seedlings to recover from Basta selection was also studied in camelina, canola, and wheat. All three crops showed different recovery rates, with wheat demonstrating the highest recovery once transplanted from Basta to normal growth media.
Conclusion
In summary, our findings demonstrate that by harnessing the recovery capability of Basta-sensitive seedlings, we can effectively identify and rescue plants lacking the Cas9 T-DNA, enabling the isolation of Cas9-free mutants in Arabidopsis and potentially extending to other crops.
DeepLearning-EndoCancer: A Data Enhancement Framework Improved Endometrial Cancer Diagnostic Accuracy
Authors: Luo Yi , Yang Meiyi , Liu Xiaoying , Qin Liufeng , Yu Zhengjun , Gao Yunxia , Xu Xia , Cha Guofen , Zhu Xuehua , Chen Gang , Wang Xue , Cao Lulu , Zhou Yuwang , Fang Yun
Published: February 2024

Objective
This study sought to enhance the precision of endometrial lesion categorization in ultrasound imagery via a data enhancement framework base on deep learning (DL), addressing diagnostic accuracy challenges and contributing to future research.
Materials and Methods
Our study gathered ultrasound image datasets from 734 patients across six hospitals. We devised a data enhancement framework including Image Features Cleaning and Soften Label, validated across multiple DL models including ResNet50, DenseNet169, DenseNet201, and ViT-B. For optimal performance, we proposed a hybrid model integrating convolutional neural network (CNN) and transformer architectures to predict lesion types.
Results
The implementation of our novel strategies resulted in a substantial accuracy enhancement in the model. The final model achieved an accuracy of 0.809 and a macro-AUC of 0.911, underscoring DL's potential in endometrial lesion ultrasound image classification.
Conclusion
We successfully developed a data enhancement framework to accurately classify endometrial lesion in ultrasound images. The integration of anomaly detection, data cleaning, and soften label strategies enhanced the model's comprehension of lesion image features, thereby boosting its classification capacity. Our research offers valuable insights for future studies and lays the foundation for the creation of more precise diagnostic tools.
LC-mHTT-AN2 oversees lactate transport, hypoxia, and glucose homeostasis through dual regulation of MCT-1/4 in the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Yadav Sneha , Singh Jyoti , Kumar Rohit , Sonkar Archana Bharti , Kumar Anurag , Kumar Dharmendra , Alamoudi Mariam K. , Ansari Mohd Nazam , Saeedan Abdulaziz S. , Mukherjee Alok , Kaithwas Gaurav
Published: February 2024

Background
Cancer cells have accelerated glycolysis rate, resulting in excessive lactate generation, which is critical in rapidly growing cancerous cells. Lactate is primarily transported by MCT-1/MCT-4, the two H+/lactate transporters that promote cellular proliferation and growth. Through in-silico, in-vitro, and in-vivo investigation, we aimed to find new dual MCT-1 and MCT-4 inhibitor for therapeutic intervention in breast cancer.
Material and Methods
A library of 4098 natural product-like compounds (HY-L057L) was retrieved and screened based on structural similarity with Syrosingopine (above70%). Among them, we found LC-mHTT-AN2 as a potential molecule that inhibits MCT-1 and MCT-4 symporters through docking study, pharmacokinetic(ADMET) profiling.Further, compound was tested for the in-vitro cytotoxicity(via MTTassay) and antiapototic activity ( via DAPI, AO/EtBr,JC-1) against MCF-7 cells. we also examined the in-vivo anticancer activity against MNU (Methyl Nitrosourea) induced mammary gland carcinoma in Wistar rat through carmine staining, SEM,biochemical and western blotting analysis
Results
Our in-silico result revealed that LC-mHTT-AN2 has good docking score with both proteins( MCT-1 and MCT-4 ) and favourable ADMET profiling. Further ,in-vitro result demonstrated that LC-mHTT-AN2 has significant IC50 value (4.7µM) and antiapoptotic potential. Once scrutinized against MNU-induced mammary gland carcinoma, LC-mHTT-AN2 significantly restored the altered morphology and ameliorated histopathological, biochemical and lactate production. Furthermore, the western blotting analysis revealed that LC-mHTT-AN2 significantly regulate mitochondrial apoptotic pathway and has demarcating effect upon inhibition of lactate transport and hypoxic microenvironment, demonstrating the preclinical efficacy for treating breast cancer.
Conclusions
The overall findings from in -silico, in -vitro, and in -vivo support the pre-clinical efficacy of LC-mHTT-AN2 in the treatment of breast carcinoma by combined inhibition of MCT-1 and MCT-4. Further research is needed to verify its usefulness before clinical application.
Association between machine learning-assisted heavy metal exposures and diabetic kidney disease: A Cross-Sectional Survey and Mendelian Randomization Analysis
Authors: Zhao Ruiqi , Lin Sen , Han Mengyao , Lin Zhimei , Yu Mengjiao , Zhang Bei , Ma Lanyue , Li Danfei , Peng Lisheng
Published: February 2024

Background & objective: Heavy metals, ubiquitous in the environment, pose a global public health concern. The correlation between these and diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains unclear.
Methods: We analyzed data from the NHANES (2005–2020), using machine learning, and cross-sectional survey. Our study also involved a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.
Results: Machine learning reveals correlation coefficients of -0.5059 and − 0.6510 for urinary Ba and urinary Tl with DKD, respectively. Multifactorial logistic regression implicates urinary Ba, urinary Pb, blood Cd, and blood Pb as potential associates of DKD. When adjusted for all covariates, the odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals are 0.87 (0.78, 0.98) (P = 0.023), 0.70 (0.53, 0.92) (P = 0.012), 0.53 (0.34, 0.82) (P = 0.005), and 0.76 (0.64, 0.90) (P = 0.002) in order. Furthermore, multiplicative interactions between urinary Ba and urinary Sb, urinary Cd and urinary Co, urinary Cd and urinary Pb, and blood Cd and blood Hg might be present. Among the diabetic population, the OR of urinary Tl with DKD is a mere 0.10, with a 95%CI of (0.01, 0.74), urinary Co 0.73 (0.54, 0.98) in Model 3, and urinary Pb 0.72 (0.55, 0.95) in Model 2. Restricted Cubic Splines (RCS) indicate a linear linkage between blood Cd in the general population and urinary Co, urinary Pb, and urinary Tl with DKD among diabetics. An observable trend effect is present between urinary Pb and urinary Tl with DKD. MR analysis reveals odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals of 1.16 (1.03,1.32) (P = 0.018) and 1.17 (1.00,1.36) (P = 0.044) for blood Cd and blood Mn, respectively.
Conclusions: In the general population, urinary Ba demonstrates a nonlinear inverse association with DKD, whereas in the diabetic population, urinary Tl displays a linear inverse relationship with DKD.
Maximizing Efciency in Perovskite Solar Cells:The Impact of Plasmonic Nanoparticle Geometryon Absorption and Performance
Authors: MASHRAFI MD. , Anik M. Hussayeen Khan , ISRAT MST. FARHANA , Habib Ahsan , Islam Sharnali
Published: February 2024

High transparency of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) to infrared light has resulted inlower efciency when compared to other technologies such as crystalline silicon. In recent years, the application of nanoparticles (NPs) to induce surface plasmonresonance has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance the incident light harvesting in solar cells, resulting in improved performance and absorption efciency. However, the efcacy of this method is greatly inﬂuenced by the geometry of theplasmonic nanoparticle, and a considerable gap exists in the literature regardingthe optimization of this geometry and the coupled optical and electrical analysis ofthe perovskite solar cell embedded with such nanoparticles. Here, we compare theperformance of plasmonic nanoparticles of diﬀerent geometrical shapes implantedwithin PSCs, including cones, inverted cones, cylinders, and pyramids of plasmonic nanostructures arranged in an array. We examine the enhancement of theabsorption spectrum in PSCs using fnite element method (FEM) simulationsand found that the cylinder nanostructure has a maximum average absorptionof 52%, while the planar structure has only 27%. We perform numerical analysisusing the SCAPS-1D simulator to determine the efciency of proposed PSCs. Our simulations indicated that an optimum device with embedded cylinder nanostructures could achieve an unprecedented 37% efciency. Finally, we investigatethe impact of non-radiative heat and temperature due to metal nanoparticles inplasmon-enhanced solar cells. Our fndings indicate that the introduction of cylindrical plasmonic nanoparticles does not signifcantly increase non-radiative heatand temperature. Our fndings pave the way for a novel approach to designing perovskite cells that may outperform typical silicon cells currently used.
Multiple Informant Cluster Analysis Findings: Which Military-Connected Preschool Aged Children Are Doing Well and Why?
Authors: Lester Patricia , Aralis Hilary , Hajal Nastassia , Bursch Brenda , Milburn Norweeta , Paley Blair , Cortez Maegan Sinclair , Barrera Wendy , Kiff Cara , Beardslee William , Mogil Catherine
Published: February 2024

Informed by models of resilience in military families, we explored factors theorized to be associated with social-emotional resilience and risk among young military-connected children. Our secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from 199 military-connected families (n = 346 parents) with at least one preschool-age child in the home (n = 199) led to the empirical identification of two distinct clusters: families with children demonstrating healthy social-emotional functioning and those showing indicators of poor social-emotional functioning. We then identified factors associated with membership in each cluster to determine which deployment and parental wellbeing variables were salient for young child adjustment. Parent psychological health symptoms, parenting, child behavior, and parent-child relationships were measured by parent report and observed interaction. Children with healthier social-emotional functioning were found to be residing with families experiencing less stress and distress. The importance of maternal trauma history is highlighted in our study, as elevated maternal symptoms across all three posttraumatic stress disorder symptom domains were associated with child social-emotional risk. Basic family demographic characteristics did not contribute significantly to the cluster distinctions, nor did military service factors such as active duty, reserve or veteran status, military rank or parent deployment history. These findings are important as the results deemphasize the importance of military service characteristics and highlight the importance of parent wellbeing when considering social-emotional risk and resilience of young children within military families.
Comparative Study on Morphological, Biochemical and Distribution Pattern of Villorita Cyprinoides and Meretrix Casta Bivalve Shells in Vembanad Estuary, Kerala, India.
Authors: JOSEPH ANJU MARIA , GANDHI M.SURESH
Published: February 2024

Estuaries are among the most commercially significant ecosystems on the earth, and they provide different habitats for numerous bivalve species. Clams are one of the most widely distributed and used aquatic bivalves, providing much more protein-rich food than mussels and oysters. Vembanad estuary is one of the richest clam fisheries coastal wetland in Kerala. The current study focused to compare the morphology and biochemistry of Villorita cyprinoides and Meretrix casta shells in Vembanad estuary. It also attempts to understand the variations in clam distribution caused by salinity fluctuations and sediment texture. According to the morphological and morphometric analysis, medium size shells were found in greater abundance in both species. A total of 306 nos of Villorita cyprinoides shells and 169 nos of Meretrix casta shells were obtained from the ten sample locations of Vembanad estuary. The density of Villorita cyprinoides (192 nos) shells is high in the southern part, and Meretrix casta (108 nos) shells are abundant in the northern portion of Vembanad estuary. Villorita cyprinoides has a negative linear correlation with salinity, as indicated by R2 of 0.96. Meretrix casta, on the other hand, exhibits a positive correlation with salinity, with 0.94 linear coefficient. Villorita cyprinoides is more prevalent in clayey and silty sediments, while Meretrix casta is more common in sandy sediments. According to XRF analysis, calcium is the major oxide, with 39.47% and 38.72% elemental concentration in both species Villorita cyprinoides and Meretrix casta respectively. All other oxides were found only in trace amount.
Person Re-identification Based on Improved Transformer and Multi-scale, Multi- granularity Feature Learning
Authors: Ji Peng , Chen Hao , Liu Chang
Published: February 2024

Person re-identification refers to the use of computer vision techniques to identify specific individuals in images captured by surveillance systems. However, this process is challenged by factors like variations in viewpoint, pose, occlusions, and other environmental conditions. Current pedestrian re-identification methods based on local features often suffer from limited discriminative power in feature extraction, which ultimately results in lower re-identification accuracy. For efficient use of feature information, we propose an improved Transformer and multi-scale, multi-granularity fusion network. Firstly, local multi-granularity branch is introduced to extract semantic information at various granularities, which enhances the richness of features by exploring less significant local characteristics of pedestrians. In addition, the improved Transformer can better focus on key regions of the image and incorporates larger-scale image information. Finally, we use triplet and softmax to calculate loss for different branches. We conducted extensive experiments on three datasets (CUHK03, Market1501, DukeMTMC-reID), and the results demonstrate that our model outperforms many recent state-of-the-art methods in terms of accuracy.
Determinants and Outcomes of Green HRM: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Kaur Parminder , Atwal Heena , Nayak Kamakshya Prasad
Published: February 2024

Green HRM is a hot topic and has remained the most attractive topic among industry practitioners and academicians. Many studies have been conducted on different industries and participants across the world, particularly on the determinants and outcomes of GHRM. Due to diverse research, it is very difficult to identify industry- and participant-specific determinants and outcomes of GHRM. The purpose of the present study is to analyze the research publications on the determinants and outcomes of GHRM in reputed journals. The current study follows a systematic literature review approach. The scholarly works of previous researchers were selected on several criteria, such as keywords, sources, scopes, contexts, approaches, and published works from 2010 to 2022. These studies were categorized based on year, county, participant, organization type, research methodology, and their determinants and outcomes. This resulted in the collection of 56 published articles. The current study is focused on the previously performed research, current trends, and future scope in the niche area of determinants and outcomes of Green HRM and does not consider the research from conference proceedings, books, etc.
Comparative methods for assessing the age and of the red fox (Vulpes vulpes crucigera) in Central Romania
Authors: Codreanu Codrin , Hardalau Darius
Published: February 2024

This study focuses on the anatomical-morphological and cranial characteristics of the red fox subspecies Vulpes vulpes crucigera Bechstein in Central Romania. A total of 70 skull specimens and 65 carcasses were examined, with morphological determinations and anatomical evaluations conducted to understand the variability within the local population. Craniometric analysis involved 32 specific measurements, and regression equations were derived to estimate the age of specimens based on measurable parameters. The study area encompassed diverse ecological conditions, spanning on an area of almost 75 000 ha, providing insights into the adaptability of red foxes. The results highlight the significance of total body weight in estimating age and suggest the potential for further research to refine population characterization. Two equations resulted from the regression model, which can help the age determination directly on the terrain. The Principal Component Analysis was applied to all specimens in the study to analyze their morphological characteristics, revealing significant variations in skull and body parameters. Extending this study to different regions of Europe can enhance our understanding of red fox variations in skull and anatomical characteristics.
Optimizing Ficus Nota Water Priming for Accelerated Germination and Growth in Pechay (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis)
Authors: Taer Erma C.
Published: February 2024

This study addresses the imperative requirement to enhance seed germination rates and uniformity in seedling establishment for short-cultivation-period vegetable crops, with a focus on Pechay (Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis). Employing seed invigoration techniques utilizing natural plant extracts, particularly Ficus nota water (FNW), we investigated the impacts of varied FNW concentrations (0%, 50%, 100%) and soaking durations (2, 4, 6 hours) on Pechay seeds. The combination of 50% FNW and a 4-hour soaking duration significantly accelerated germination rates by 60% compared to the control. FNW application also exerted a positive influence on seedling height, radical proliferation, and biomass accumulation. However, the persistent enhancement in height and late-stage leaf width expansion at a 50% concentration did not translate into corresponding improvements in productivity, suggesting potential trade-offs between morphological alterations and yield. This study offers preliminary evidence supporting FNW efficacy in expediting Pechay germination and invigorating nursery vigor, providing a foundation for optimized priming protocols and extended cultivation periods. Despite morphological stimulation, the absence of biomass enhancement prompts further exploration into the underlying growth dynamics, emphasizing the necessity for subsequent field trials to assess yield responses. Overall, this research contributes insights into the nuanced relationship between morphological modifications and productivity in FNW-primed Pechay cultivation.
Designing, Validation, and Feasibility Analysis of Integrated Approach of Heartfulness Meditation and Yoga Protocol (IAHFNM & YP) for Hypertensive Participants
Authors: Thakur Mansee
Published: February 2024

Background
Hypertension is a global health problem caused due to several lifestyle habits and dietary patterns and associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. Studies have reported the effectiveness of Meditation and Yoga combined therapy as an efficient intervention in the treatment of hypertension. Therefore, developing an integrated approach for monitoring this intervention is necessary. This study aimed to develop a structured tool for monitoring Meditation and yoga practices as a complementary therapy for Hypertensive Participants.
Objective
To design, validate, and conduct a feasibility analysis of the Integrated Approach of Heartfulness Meditation & Yoga Protocol (IAHFNM & YP) for Hypertensive patients.
Methods
40 experts were selected to validate the contents of IAHFNM & YP which was designed after a thorough review of meditation and yoga literature. A total of 23 items were included and each item was rated as essential or not essential by the experts, based on which the content validity ratio (CVR), Item-Content Validity Index (I-CVI), and Scale-Content Validity Index Average (S-CVI/Ave) were calculated. Reliability analysis and a pilot study for the feasibility of IAHFNM & YP for Hypertensive patients were also done. Statistical
Results
All 23 practices exhibited significant CVR (≥ 0.29), I-CVI (> 0.79), and S-CVI/Ave (> 0.9), thus the tool was found to have valid contents. The Cronbach’s alpha value for the tool was 0.95 which was highly reliable. Feasibility analysis in Hypertensive Participants showed that the tool is reliable and implementable.
Conclusion
The IAHFNM & YP tool designed for Hypertensive patients is valid, reliable, and feasible. The patients showed a willingness to continue with heartfulness meditation and yoga practices for participation in research for a longer duration. Further studies to confirm the tool's efficacy should be conducted with a large sample size.
Exploring the Efficacy of Shirodhara as an Add-on Therapy for Alleviating Post-COVID Anxiety and Depression: A Case Study
Authors: Shamkuwar Manoj , PV Prof. Dr. Anandaraman , Kataria Dinesh , Bhatted Santosh , Bhatia Bhavna
Published: February 2024

Background
This study explores post-COVID-19 psychological challenges in a 31-year-old female patient—manifesting as Anxiety, fatigue, weakness, irritability, anger, and concentration issues. The treatment approach combines SSRI and Clonazepam medications with Shirodhara therapy using Balashwagandhadi taila, presenting a novel and comprehensive intervention strategy.
Methods
The patient was evaluated using recognized scales, such as HAM-A, HDRS, PHQ-9, and QOL. Additionally, monitoring serum cortisol levels served as a potential physiological marker. The integrative treatment approach addresses psychological symptoms and potential underlying physiological mechanisms.
Results
Significant improvement is observed across various domains, evidenced by reduced HAM-A, HDRS, and PHQ-9 scores and enhanced QOL. Post-Shirodhara therapy, a notable increase in serum cortisol levels from 3.09 ug/dL to 11.76 ug/dL, suggesting a correlation with clinical improvements.
Conclusion
This case underscores Shirodhara's promising role as an adjunctive therapy for post-COVID-19 Anxiety and depression. Findings advocate further exploring integrative approaches in post-viral psychological care, emphasizing addressing psychological and potential physiological aspects for holistic recovery.