bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Photoelectrochemical Biosensor Mediated by CRISPR/Cas13a for Direct and Specific Detection of MiRNA-21
Authors: Zhang Yang , Miao Pei , Wang Jingyuan , Sun Yan , Zhang Jing , Wang Bin , Yan Mei
Published: September 2024

Direct detection of miRNA is currently limited by the complex amplification and reverse transcription processes of existing methods, leading to low sensitivity and high operational demands. Herein, we developed a CRISPR/Cas13a-mediated photoelectrochemical (PEC) biosensing platform for direct and sensitive detection of miRNA-21. The direct and specific recognition of target miRNA-21 by crRNA-21 eliminates the need for pre-amplification and reverse transcription of miRNA-21, thereby preventing signal distortion and enhancing the sensitivity and precision of target detection. When crRNA-21 binds to miRNA-21, it activates the trans-cleavage activity of CRISPR/Cas13a, leading to the non-specific cleavage of biotin-modified DNA with uracil bases (biotin-rU-DNA). This cleavage prevents the biotin-rU-DNA from being immobilized on the electrode surface. As a result, streptavidin cannot attach to the electrode via specific biotin binding, reducing spatial resistance and causing a positively correlated increase in the photocurrent response. This Cas-PEC biosensor has good analytical capabilities, linear responses between 10 fM and 10 nM, a minimum detection limit of 9 fM, and an excellent recovery rate in the analysis of real human serum samples. This work presented an innovative solution for detecting other biomarkers in bioanalysis and clinical diagnostics.
flyDetect: An Android Application for Flight Detection
Authors: Reinholdt Jonas , Jul Eric , Ferreira Paulo
Published: September 2024

Over the past years, transport mode recognition has become a large field of research. However, flight as a type of transportation has been mostly overlooked. A system for flight detection might be useful for context-aware applications, but more importantly, it can be used to automatically manage airplane mode on smartphones. Smartphones transmit radio frequency signals which could potentially interfere with aircraft systems, and it is therefore important that devices enable airplane mode to avoid this problem. This paper proposes flyDetect, a method for automatic flight mode detection and an embodiment in the form of an app that demonstrates the viability of the method. Thus, the system uses the accelerometer and barometer in an Android smartphone, can detect the start and end of a flight, and notify other apps or systems on the device when this happens. Our evaluation shows that flyDetect meets the requirements set for the solution, and the results are very promising.
Generisch-Net: A Generic Deep Model for Analyzing Human Motion with Wearable Sensors in the Internet of Health Things
Authors: Hamza Kiran , Riaz Qaiser , Imran Hamza Ali , Hussain Mehdi , Krüger Björn
Published: September 2024

The Internet of Health Things (IoHT) is a broader version of the Internet of Things. The main goal is to intervene autonomously from geographically diverse regions and provide low-cost preventative or active healthcare treatments. Smart wearable IMUs for human motion analysis have proven to provide valuable insights into a person’s psychological state, activities of daily living, identification/re-identification through gait signatures, etc. The existing literature, however, focuses on specificity i.e., problem-specific deep models. This work presents a generic BiGRU-CNN deep model that can predict the emotional state of a person, classify the activities of daily living, and re-identify a person in a closed-loop scenario. For training and validation, we have employed publicly available and closed-access datasets. The data were collected with wearable inertial measurement units mounted non-invasively on the bodies of the subjects. Our findings demonstrate that the generic model achieves an impressive accuracy of 96.97% in classifying activities of daily living. Additionally, it re-identifies individuals in closed-loop scenarios with an accuracy of 93.71% and estimates emotional states with an accuracy of 78.20%. This study represents a significant effort towards developing a versatile deep-learning model for human motion analysis using wearable IMUs, demonstrating promising results across multiple applications.
Robot Calibration Sampling Data Optimization Method Based on Improved Robot Observability Metrics and Binary Simulated Annealing Algorithm
Authors: Jia Huakun , Zeng Hanbo , Zhang Jiyan , Wang Xiangyang , Lu Yang , Yu Liandong
Published: September 2024

As the societal demand for precision in industrial robot operations increases, calibration can enhance the end-effector positioning accuracy of robots. Sampling data optimization plays an important role in improving the calibration effect. In this study, a robot calibration sampling point optimization method based on improved robot observability metrics and a Binary Simulated Annealing Algorithm is proposed. Initially, a robot kinematic model based on the Product of Exponentials (POE) model and a generalized error model is established. By utilizing the least squares method, the ideal pose transformation relationship between the robot’s base coordinate system and the laser tracker measurement coordinate system is derived, resulting in an error calibration model based on spatial single points. An improved robot observability metric combined with the Binary Simulated Annealing Algorithm (BSAA) is introduced to optimize the selection of calibration sampling data. Finally, the robot’s parameter errors are obtained using a nonlinear least squares method. Experimental results demonstrate that the average end-effector positioning error of the robot after calibration can be reduced from 0.356 mm to 0.254 mm using this method.
Development and Validation of a Novel Method Using QuEChERS and UHPLC-MS-MS for the Determination of Multiple Emerging Fungicides in Surface Waters
Authors: Serasinghe Pulasthi , Taleski Deni , Nguyen Hao T. K. , Nugegoda Dayanthi , Pettigrove Vincent
Published: September 2024

The increasing global reliance on pesticides for agricultural pest control has raised significant environmental concerns, particularly due to inadequate monitoring of emerging chemicals in surface waters. This study addresses the potential contamination of aquatic ecosystems by developing and validating a method for detecting trace amounts of four recently registered fungicides: three succinate dehydrogenase inhibitors (fluopyram, penthiopyrad, pydiflumetofen) and fluopicolide, a structurally related fungicide. Employing QuEChERS-based sample extraction combined with ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC-MS-MS), this method achieves detection limits of 0.1 to 0.2 μg/L, with recovery rates between 90% and 110%, and intra-day relative standard deviation values well within the acceptable range of less than 20%. Applied to surface grab water samples from the greater Melbourne area, Australia, the method successfully identified all four fungicides at trace levels, including a notable high concentration of fluopyram (7.3 μg/L) during autumn, with the others intermittently detected at lower concentrations. This study represents the first documented instance of quantifiable detections of these four fungicides in Australian surface water systems. Given their high toxicity to several organisms and the limited global data on these substances, our findings underscore the critical need for continuous monitoring to inform strategies to safeguard aquatic ecosystems from these chemicals.
Navigating Challenges and Leveraging Technology: Experiences of Child Welfare Workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Maiter Sarah , Kikulwe Daniel , Danish Uzma , Drynan Peyton , Blackman Mykayla
Published: September 2024

This qualitative study explores the experiences of child welfare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic through virtual interviews, focusing on the challenges and adaptations in their work and support systems. Participants reported significant difficulties in maintaining a healthy work–life balance, heightened stress, anxiety, and increased workloads due to sick leaves and burnout. This study highlights the dual role of technology as both a stressor and a crucial tool, with rapid integration posing challenges while also enabling continued support for children and families. Despite these challenges, workers demonstrated resilience and creativity, developing innovative solutions to navigate the new landscape. The findings underscore the importance of robust support systems, clear communication, and equitable access to technology. This study suggests integrating lessons learned during the pandemic into future child welfare practices to enhance resilience and adaptability in the face of future crises.
COMSOL-Based Simulation of Microwave Heating of Al2O3/SiC Composites with Parameter Variations
Authors: Li Guo , Zhou Jian
Published: September 2024

The process of microwave heating involves the coupling of multiple physical phenomena, specifically including the distribution of the electromagnetic field in the resonant cavity. The electromagnetic effect generates heat and encourages the transfer of heat inside the material. In this numerical study, a 3D computer model of microwave heating of Al2O3/SiC composites using a multimode microwave heating chamber was established based on the simulation software COMSOL Multiphysics 5.6, and the symmetry treatment of the model was carried out, which effectively reduced the amount of model calculations and accurately analyzed the microwave heating characteristics of the samples. The analysis of the microwave heating characteristics of the sample was mainly preformed from the perspective of the electric field distribution in the resonant cavity, the sample heating rate and the sample heating uniformity, and then it was determined how the microwave source power and sample mold selection affect the temperature and electric field parameters of the sample. After experimental verification, the error between the simulation results and the temperature parameters obtained from the actual experiments is less than 2%. This study contributes to further understanding the heating behavior of Al2O3/SiC composites in complex multimode microwave heating environments and can be used to control the dynamic parameters during microwave heating in order to improve the heating rate and heating uniformity of samples.
Prioritizing Factors to Foster Improvement of Sales Operations in Small- and Medium-Sized Industrial Organizations
Authors: Vásquez-Ruiz Luis A. , Núñez-Ríos Juan E. , Sánchez-García Jacqueline Y.
Published: September 2024

Small- and medium-sized companies depend heavily on their internal configuration to achieve their goals, generate profit, and remain competitive. The performance of the sales department is often crucial for this. Decision-makers need to understand how to coordinate the sales force’s operations while considering team members’ communication and commitment. This article presents an approach to prioritize factors that will improve the operations of the sales department in small- and medium-sized companies in the industrial sector. To achieve this, we adopted the soft modeling approach by (1) outlining a conceptual model that identifies the factors that can lead to improvements based on the literature and (2) using the analytical hierarchy process to validate a construct and prioritize the factors. This study is focused on the organizational domain and involves the participation of sixty employees from medium-sized Mexican companies with at least five years of experience. The results indicate that the factors that foster improvement in sales department operations are communication improvement, failure prevention, workload alignment, and adequate integration of human efforts with technology without neglecting coordination and management mechanisms. This article could encourage academics and practitioners to adopt the soft modeling approach to adopt new courses of action based on continuous learning and improve organizational cohesion.
Influencing Factors of Sustainable Rural Entrepreneurship: A Four-Dimensional Evaluation System Encompassing Entrepreneurs, Economy, Society, and Environment
Authors: Shao Qigan , Jiang Changchang , Li Guokai , Xie Guojie
Published: September 2024

The implementation of rural entrepreneurship emerges as a pivotal pathway for fostering rural economic growth. However, unsustainable entrepreneurial endeavors have posed notable ecological threats and environmental degradation. Drawing upon the triple bottom line framework, this research devised a comprehensive evaluation system for sustainable rural entrepreneurship, spanning four dimensions: entrepreneurs, economic, social, and environmental aspects. Employing the fuzzy Decision-Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DANP) approach, we delineated the intricate causal relationships among influencing factors and identified key determinants along with their respective weights. Our findings underscore the prominence of economic dimensions in fostering sustainable rural entrepreneurship. Specifically, entrepreneurial motivation, type of entrepreneurship, financial backing, economic value, favorable policy frameworks, and a conducive business environment emerged as pivotal indicators. Notably, the type of entrepreneurship, financial support, economic value, and favorable policies emerged as propelling factors driving sustainable rural entrepreneurial progress. Conversely, entrepreneurial motivation and the business environment manifested as dependent factors within this causal nexus. This study offers valuable managerial implications for entrepreneurial teams and pertinent government agencies, enabling decision-makers to formulate evidence-based strategies aimed at realizing sustainable rural entrepreneurship.
Contaminant Exposure and Liver and Kidney Lesions in North American River Otters in the Indian River Lagoon, Florida
Authors: Krasner Ami , Stolen Megan , Rotstein David , Fire Spencer
Published: September 2024

The harmful algal bloom (HAB) liver toxin microcystin (MC) and trace element biomagnification were previously detected in organisms in the Indian River Lagoon (IRL), Florida. Since there are no routine screening programs for these contaminants, liver tissue from North American river otters (Lontra canadensis), an important sentinel species in the IRL, was screened for MC via enzyme-linked immunoassay (ELISA), followed by confirmatory analyses via liquid-chromatography/mass spectrometry methods (LC-MS/MS). Liver and kidney samples were evaluated for trace element (As, Cd, Co, Cu, Fe, Hg, Mn, Mo, Pb, Se, Tl, and Zn) bioaccumulation via inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Histopathologic evaluation of the liver and kidney was conducted to assess possible correlation with toxic insults. Forty-three river otters were evaluated (2016–2022). Microcystin was not detected in any river otter sample (n = 37). Of those tested for trace element bioaccumulation (n = 22), no sample measured above provided reference ranges or estimated toxic thresholds for this species. There were no statistically significant patterns observed based on season, year, or age class, but sex had a small influence on trace element levels in the kidney. One individual had a kidney Cu level (52 μg/g dry weight) higher than any previously reported for this species. Trace elements were detected at presumed background levels providing baselines for future monitoring. For otters with available histopathologic evaluation (n = 28), anomalies indicative of contaminant exposure (non-specific inflammation, necrosis, and/or lipidosis) were present in the liver and kidney of 18% and 4% of individuals, respectively. However, since these lesions were not linked to abnormal trace element bioaccumulation or MC exposure, other causes (e.g., infectious disease) should be considered.
Multi-Scale Meteorological Impact on PM2.5 Pollution in Tangshan, Northern China
Authors: Liang Qian , Zhang Xinxuan , Miao Yucong , Liu Shuhua
Published: September 2024

Tangshan, a major industrial and agricultural center in northern China, frequently experiences significant PM2.5 pollution events during winter, impacting its large population. These pollution episodes are influenced by multi–scale meteorological processes, though the complex mechanisms remain not fully understood. This study integrates surface PM2.5 concentration data, ground-based and upper–air meteorological observations, and ERA5 reanalysis data from 2015 to 2019 to explore the interactions between local planetary boundary layer (PBL) structures and large-scale atmospheric processes driving PM2.5 pollution in Tangshan. The results indicate that seasonal variations in PM2.5 pollution levels are closely linked to changes in PBL thermal stability. During winter, day–to–day increases in PM2.5 concentrations are often tied to atmospheric warming above 1500 m, as enhanced thermal inversions and reduced PBL heights lead to pollutant accumulation. Regionally, this aloft warming is driven by a high-pressure system at 850 hPa over the southern North China Plain, accompanied by prevailing southwesterly winds. Additionally, southwesterly winds within the PBL can transport pollutants from the adjacent Beijing–Tianjin–Hebei region to Tangshan, worsening pollution. Simulations from the chemical transport model indicate that regional pollutant transport can contribute to approximately half of the near-surface PM2.5 concentration under the unfavorable synoptic conditions. These findings underscore the importance of multi-scale meteorology in predicting and mitigating severe wintertime PM2.5 pollution in Tangshan and surrounding regions.
Efficacy of Thymoquinone and Hesperidin in Attenuating Cardiotoxicity from 5-Fluorouracil: Insights from In Vivo and In Silico Studies
Authors: Farooq Juveriya , Sultana Rokeya , James Jainey P. , Fathima C Zakiya , Almutairy Ali F. , Hussain Abubakar Siddique Mustafa
Published: September 2024

5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) is widely used in chemotherapy but poses serious risks of cardiotoxicity, which can significantly affect treatment outcomes. Identifying interventions that can prevent these adverse effects without undermining anticancer efficacy is crucial. This study investigates the efficacy of Thymoquinone (TQ) and Hesperidin (HESP) in preventing cardiotoxicity induced by 5-FU in Wistar rats and elucidates the molecular interactions through docking studies. We employed an experimental design involving multiple groups of Wistar rats exposed to 5-FU, with and without the concurrent administration of TQ and HESP. Cardiac function markers, oxidative stress indicators, and inflammatory markers were assessed. Additionally, molecular docking was used to analyze the interaction of TQ and HESP with key inflammatory proteins. Treatment with TQ and HESP not only lowered levels of cardiac enzymes but also improved antioxidant capacity and reduced inflammation in cardiac tissues. Notably, the combination of TQ and HESP provided more significant protective effects than either agent alone. Molecular docking supported these findings, showing effective binding of TQ and HESP to inflammatory targets. TQ and HESP demonstrate potential as protective agents against cardiotoxicity in 5-FU-treated rats, with their combined use offering enhanced protection. These findings suggest a viable strategy for reducing cardiac risks associated with 5-FU chemotherapy.
Tensor Amplitudes for Partial Wave Analysis of ψ→ΔΔ¯ within Helicity Frame
Authors: Dong Xiang , Su Kexin , Cai Hao , Zhu Kai
Published: September 2024

We have derived the tensor amplitudes for partial wave analysis of ψ→ΔΔ¯, Δ→pπ within the helicity frame, as well as the amplitudes for the other decay sequences with same final states. These formulae are practical for the experiments measuring ψ decaying into pp¯π+π− final states, such as BESIII with its recently collected huge J/ψ and ψ(2S) data samples.
Topological Susceptibility of the Gluon Plasma in the Stochastic-Vacuum Approach
Authors: Antonov Dmitry
Published: September 2024

Topological susceptibility of the SU(3) gluon plasma is calculated by accounting for both factorized and non-factorized contributions to the two-point correlation function of topological-charge densities. It turns out that, while the factorized contribution keeps this correlation function non-positive away from the origin, the non-factorized contribution makes it positive at the origin, in accordance with the reflection positivity condition. Matching the obtained result for topological susceptibility to its lattice value at the deconfinement critical temperature, we fix the parameters of the quartic cumulant of gluonic field strengths, and calculate the contribution of that cumulant to the string tension. This contribution reduces the otherwise too large value of the string tension, which stems from the quadratic cumulant, making it much closer to the standard phenomenological value.
A Generic Analysis of Nucleon Decay Branching Fractions in Flipped SU(5) Grand Unification
Authors: Hamaguchi Koichi , Hor Shihwen , Nagata Natsumi , Takahashi Hiroki
Published: September 2024

In flipped SU(5) grand unified theories, the partial decay lifetimes of certain nucleon decay channels depend generically on an unknown unitary matrix, which arises when left-handed lepton fields are embedded into anti-fundamental representations of SU(5). This dependency is particularly relevant when the neutrino mass matrix has a generic structure, introducing uncertainty in the prediction of nucleon decay branching fractions within flipped SU(5). In this paper, we demonstrate that this uncertainty can be parametrized using two parameters, which can be determined by measuring the partial lifetimes of p→π0e+, p→π0μ+, and n→π0ν¯. In addition, we establish upper limits on the ratios of the decay widths of these channels, offering a potential method to test flipped SU(5) in future nucleon decay experiments.
A Lipid Nanoparticle-Formulated Self-Amplifying RNA Rift Valley Fever Vaccine Induces a Robust Humoral Immune Response in Mice
Authors: Kitandwe Paul K. , Rogers Paul , Hu Kai , Nayebare Owen , Blakney Anna K. , McKay Paul F. , Kaleebu Pontiano , Shattock Robin J.
Published: September 2024

Rift Valley fever (RVF) is a mosquito-borne viral zoonosis that causes high fetal and neonatal mortality rates in ruminants and sometimes severe to fatal complications like encephalitis and hemorrhagic fever in humans. There is no licensed RVF vaccine for human use while approved livestock vaccines have suboptimal safety or efficacy. We designed self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) RVF vaccines and assessed their humoral immunogenicity in mice. Plasmid DNA encoding the Rift Valley fever virus (RVFV) medium (M) segment consensus sequence (WT consensus) and its derivatives mutated to enhance cell membrane expression of the viral surface glycoproteins n (Gn) and c (Gc) were assessed for in vitro expression. The WT consensus and best-expressing derivative (furin-T2A) were cloned into a Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) plasmid DNA replicon and in vitro transcribed into saRNA. The saRNA was formulated in lipid nanoparticles and its humoral immunogenicity in BALB/c mice was assessed. High quantities of dose-dependent RVFV Gn IgG antibodies were detected in the serum of all mice immunized with either WT consensus or furin-T2A saRNA RVF vaccines. Significant RVFV pseudovirus-neutralizing activity was induced in mice immunized with 1 µg or 10 µg of the WT consensus saRNA vaccine. The WT consensus saRNA RVF vaccine warrants further development.
Health Technology Assessment of Vaccines in Italy: History and Review of Applications
Authors: Boccalini Sara , Ragusa Rosalia , Panatto Donatella , Calabrò Giovanna Elisa , Cortesi Paolo Angelo , Giorgianni Gabriele , Favaretti Carlo , Bonanni Paolo , Ricciardi Walter , de Waure Chiara
Published: September 2024

Background/Objectives. Many vaccines have been developed in recent decades, and many more will be available in the future. When new safe and effective vaccines are available, decision-makers must extensively assess them before including them in the national immunization plan and issuing recommendations. The Health Technology Assessment (HTA) could be an objective, transparent, and comprehensive approach to guiding the decision-making process for the use of vaccines. Objectives and Methods. The aim of this study was to review the indications for HTA use contained in Italian institutional documents on vaccination, namely the National Immunization Plans (NIPs) and available full Italian HTA reports on vaccines, assessing their availability at the time of national recommendations’ introductions. Results. HTA has been recognised as an eligible approach to deciding upon the introduction of vaccines through the NIPs of 2012–2014 and 2017–2019, and the last NIP, of 2023–2025, highlights the lack of funding dedicated to the production of independent HTA reports that can be used for issuing recommendations. In 2007–2023, twenty full HTA reports on vaccines were published in Italy: eight reports on influenza vaccines, five on Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), three each on meningococcal and pneumococcal vaccines, and one on rotavirus vaccine. HTA was applied with different purposes, namely the evaluation of new vaccines or their re-assessment, but it was not always timely with respect to both the marketing authorisation and the issuing of national recommendations for use. Conclusions. As HTA can be considered the best tool to disentangle the overall value of vaccines, it would be desirable for it to be used more and more to provide the evidence for efficient resource use. This calls for action to improve the transfer of HTA results to decision-makers, to try to fill the gap between research and decision and foster evidence-based recommendations.
A Recombinant Lentiviral Vegfr2-Silencing Vector Attenuates Roxarsone-Promoted Growth of Rat Vascular Endothelial Cells and Angiogenesis in Matrigel Plug and B16F10 Xenograft Models
Authors: Chen Xin , Chen Lin , Chen Binlin , Wei Qianhan , Wu Yinchao , Zhang Yumei
Published: September 2024

Roxarsone (ROX) is widely used as a feed addictive for livestock and poultry. ROX promotes angiogenesis, which can lead to health problems, and it is necessary to identify methods to counter this angiogenic effect of ROX. The VEGF/VEGFR2 signaling pathway is involved in the growth and reconstruction of new blood vessels during angiogenesis. In this study, a recombinant lentiviral vector encoding Vegfr2 shRNA was transfected into rat vascular endothelial cells and used in mouse matrigel plug and melanoma xenograft models to investigate its potential to regulate ROX-induced angiogenesis and tumor growth. Treating endothelial cells with ROX increased cell proliferation, migration, and a tube-like structure of growth relative to the control group. The addition of the lentiviral Vegfr2-silencing vector significantly attenuated the effects of ROX on endothelial cells. The hemoglobin content of mouse matrigel plugs treated with ROX was increased significantly. This effect was dramatically attenuated by the co-administration of shRNA targeting Vegfr2. The volume, weight and CD34 staining of the melanoma xenograft tumors increased by ROX were also attenuated by Vegfr2 silence. These results indicate that the down-regulation of VEGFR2 protein plays an inhibitory role in the ROX-promoted angiogenesis in vivo and in vitro. These data support the targeting of Vegfr2 gene as an effective means to treat ROX-induced angiogenesis and tumor growth.
ASSESSMENT OF INFLAMMATORY RESPONSE AFTER ADMINISTRATION OF ASCORBIC ACID IN A RADIATION HEPATITIS MODEL
Authors: Demyashkin Grigoriy Aleksandrovich , Yakimenko Vladislav Andreevich , Vadyukhin Matvey Anatol'evich , Ugurchieva Dali Ibragimovna
Published: September 2024

Exposure to ionizing radiation while treating malignant liver tumors causes radiation-induced hepatitis. Under electron irradiation, ascorbic acid may be a potential liver radioprotector.
Objective. The aim of the study is to conduct immunohistochemical assessment of IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10 expression levels after administration of ascorbic acid in a radiation-induced hepatitis model.
Materials and Methods. Wistar rats (n=40) were divided into four groups: Group 1 (n=10) – control; Group 2 (n=10) – electron irradiation, 30 Gy; Group 3 (n=10) – administration of ascorbic acid before electron irradiation; Group 4 (n=10) – administration of ascorbic acid. One week after the last fraction, the animals were withdrawn from the experiment. Liver fragments were examined morphologically, immunohistochemically and using ELISA method (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-10). Statistical analysis of the obtained data was performed using the a Post-hoc test for Kruskal-Wallis: The Dunn's Test. Multiple comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney U test.
Results. Electron irradiation resulted in a sharp increase in the expression of inflammatory factors and cytokine imbalance with a predominance of proinflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-6) over anti-inflammatory ones (IL-10). In the group with pre-radiation administration of ascorbic acid, the levels of interleukins also exceeded the control values. However, the balance of pro- and anti-inflammatory factors was partially preserved.
Conclusion. A week after exposure to local electron irradiation (total radiation dose – 30 Gy), signs of radiation-induced hepatitis was observed. A statistically significant increase in the expression of proinflammatory cytokines was detected in the liver. At the same time, pre-radiation administration of ascorbic acid provides partial radioprotection of healthy hepatocytes, as well as restoration of the cytokine balance and a decrease in cellular inflammatory infiltration.
Discovery of High-Risk Clinical Factors That Accelerate Brain Aging in Adults: A Population-Based Machine Learning Study
Authors: Sun Jing , Wang Luyao , Gao Yiwen , Hui Ying , Chen Shuohua , Wu Shouling , Wang Zhenchang , Jiang Jiehui , Lv Han
Published: September 2024

Introduction:
Brain age prediction using neuroimaging data and machine learning algorithms holds significant promise for gaining insights into the development of neurodegenerative diseases. The estimation of brain age may be influenced not only by the imaging modality but also by multidomain clinical factors. However, the degree to which various clinical factors in individuals are associated with brain structure, as well as the comprehensive relationship between these factors and brain aging, is not yet clear.
Methods:
In this study, multimodal brain magnetic resonance imaging data and longitudinal clinical information were collected from 964 participants in a population-based cohort with 16 years of follow-up in northern China. We developed a machine learning-based algorithm to predict multimodal brain age and compared the estimated brain age gap (BAG) differences among the 5 groups characterized by varying exposures to these high-risk clinical factors. We then estimated modality-specific brain age in the hypertension group based on hypertension-related regional imaging metrics.
Results:
The results revealed a significantly larger BAG estimated from multimodal neuroimaging in subjects with 4 or 5 risk factors compared to other groups, suggesting an acceleration of brain aging under cumulative exposure to multiple risk factors. The estimated T1-based BAG exhibited a significantly higher level in the hypertensive subjects compared to the normotensive individuals.
Conclusion:
Our study provides valuable insights into a range of health factors across lifestyle, metabolism, and social context that are reflective of brain aging and also contributes to the advancement of interventions and public health initiatives targeted at the general population aimed at promoting brain health.
Have orthodontists changed their retention and follow-up protocols due to contemporary orthodontics? An online survey
Authors: Maltagliati Liliana Ávila , Alves Uchôa Sandra Maria Mesquita , Calastro Rogéria Cristina , Patel Mayara Paim , Raphaelli Nahás Ana Carla , Pereira da Silva Hélio Doyle , Matias Murilo
Published: September 2024

Background. With advancements in orthodontic technology, treatment durations have shortened, often concluding at earlier ages. This shift prompts scrutiny of contemporary retention and post-treatment protocols. The study aimed to assess current professional preferences, compare them against patient age and treatment duration, and investigate the potential impacts of reduced treatment times on professional protocols, particularly when treatment concludes before pubertal growth. Methods. A questionnaire comprising 12 multiple-choice questions focused on active treatment and retention phases was developed using an online survey platform. It was distributed to licensed orthodontists engaged in patient treatment. Bivariate analysis was conducted using ANOVA and the Kruskal-Wallis test, with pairwise comparisons facilitated by the Dwass-Steel-Critchlow-Fligner method. Results. Of 743 respondents, representing a 32% response rate, approximately 70% reported initiating treatment with fixed appliances in pre-pubertal patients. The most prevalent treatment combination involved commencing treatment during early permanent dentition and lasting between 12 to 24 months, resulting in treatment completion before full growth maturation. No discernible individualization was observed in retention protocols or post-retention follow-ups. Traditional retainer prescription post-orthodontic therapy was unanimous among respondents. Notably, experienced orthodontists tended to prefer regular patient visits for follow-up, while less experienced counterparts discharged patients after 12 months. Conclusion. Contemporary orthodontic treatments are characterized by shorter durations, yet orthodontists have not adopted retention and post-treatment follow-up practices accordingly. There is a pressing need for evidence-based guidelines to develop protocols tailored to the shorter treatment durations and the increasing prevalence of younger patients completing treatment.
Exploring the potential of tomato juice (Solanum lycopersicum L.) patch for tooth bleaching
Authors: Hendarmin Laifa Annisa , Novianita Berliana , Anggraeni Yuni , Febriyanti Khairunissa
Published: September 2024

Background. Tomato, renowned for its tooth-whitening properties due to its hydrogen peroxide and peroxidase enzyme content, requires formulation for enhanced applicability. This study assessed the dental whitening efficacy of a patch containing tomato juice as the active ingredient. Methods. Tomato juice patches were formulated at concentrations of 55%, 60%, and 65%. A control group (C) containing a 12% hydrogen peroxide patch was also included. A matrix layer of the patches was prepared using the solvent casting method at 40 for 18 h, with Tegaderm™ applied as the backing layer. For the dental whitening procedure, each group of patches was applied to the labial surface of anterior stained teeth (n=6/group) for 3 h, repeated 14 times. Tooth brightness was evaluated qualitatively and quantitatively using digital dental photo CIEL*a*b* analysis. Meanwhile, enamel surfaces were examined under a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) was employed for statistical analysis. Results. The application of tomato juice patches led to enhanced tooth brightness. The patch containing 65% tomato juice significantly improved stained tooth brightness (P<0.05). SEM analysis revealed less enamel erosion with the 65% tomato juice patch compared to the 12% hydrogen peroxide patch. Conclusion. Tomato juice patches effectively increased tooth brightness while minimizing demineralization. Further research is needed to optimize formulation and explore its potential.
Data Economy, neural network learning and multidimensional geometry
Authors: Козырев А.Н.
Published: September 2024

В статье на конкретных примерах показано, как математика высокого класса иногда помогает решать проблемы в области экономики и информационных технологий, для решения которых она изначально не предназначалась. Особо подчеркивается роль выдающихся отечественных математиков относительно недалекого прошлого.

The article uses specific examples to show how high-class mathematics sometimes helps to solve problems in the field of economics and information technology, for which it was not originally intended. The role of outstanding Russian mathematicians of the relatively recent past is particularly emphasized. interpreter.
La comparación de figuras de animales en refranes en chino y español: el caso del ganado bovino
Authors: Liu Shiyang , Dong Xingwang
Published: September 2024

Proverbs are one of the most representative expressions of a country or nation's language and culture. Both in China and Spain, there is a large number of proverbs related to animals, and bovine livestock possesses a special and important meaning in both cultures. Therefore, starting from the theoretical framework of cultural linguistics and linguaculture, and employing the method of comparative analysis, this work aims to construct a corpus of Chinese and Spanish proverbs about bovine livestock and carry out a contrastive analysis. The objective is to reveal the similarities and differences between the images of bovine livestock in the proverbs and cultures of both countries, as well as to better understand the differences between the peoples of China and Spain in terms of their life habits, ways of thinking, and ideologies. By deepening the knowledge of the image of bovine livestock in the proverbs of both nations, we hope to facilitate and increasingly enrich intercultural communications between China and Spain.
A new genus of chitons (Mollusca: Polyplacophora) from the Barbados and Martinique Islands, Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Sirenko B.I. , ANSEEUW B.
Published: September 2024

A new genus Barbadoschiton gen. nov. [type species B. bromleyi (Ferreira, 1985)] of the family Ischnochitonidae from shelf near Barbados and Martinique Islands is described. The genus possesses unique features of the tegmentum and girdle. The central area of the intermediate valves and antemucronal area of the tail valve show teardrop-shaped granules arranged in quincunx and have only one pore of aesthete. The marginal fringe of girdle is beset with five kinds of elements, among these long, fine needles, flattened, obtuse pointed spicules with three ribs on one side; spicules with longitudinal groove on one side and with 7 longitudinal ribs, on the other side; numerous, small spicules with 5 longitudinal ribs and one longitudinal groove; flat, obtuse spicules with two warts on upper half. The ventral spicules are of two kinds: main flattened, rectangular spicules with distal appendix and three weak longitudinal ribs on external part; and small distally pointed, smooth on the outer side and with two longitudinal grooves on the opposite side of the spicules. The latter are attached in transverse rows with their proximal part between the main ventral spicules. The major lateral teeth of the radula have a tridentate head, with the middle denticle being longer than others.
Nomenclator of species-group taxa of the Recent Lymnaeidae (Gastropoda: Hygrophila)
Authors: Vinarski Maxim
Published: September 2024

In 1951, the Swedish malacologist Bengt Hubendick published a catalog of species-group names in the family Lymnaeidae proposed since 1758 [Hubendick, 1951]. This catalog included 1151 entries, with information in their type localities, bibliographic references, and the position of each taxon in the then used system. Extinct taxa were not listed. This publication is an expanded and substantially revised version of Hubendick's catalog, taking into account both all species-group names proposed for the pond snails, from 1951 to 2024, as well as a number of names once overlooked by Hubendick. The present Nomenclator contains 1557 names, for each of which a reference to the original description, an indication of the type locality, the position of the taxon in the current system, and an indication of a later publication in which a photographic image of the type is given (if such a publication occurred). In some cases, taxonomic and nomenclatural remarks are provided regarding the status of particular taxa.
Multi-Modal Emotion Recognition Feature Extraction and Data Fusion Methods Evaluation
Authors:   Department of Computer Science and Engineering, University College of Engineering, Osmania University, Hyderabad (Telangana), India., Sanku Sanjeeva Rao , Prof. B. Sandhya  ,   Department of Computer Science and Engineering, MVSR Engineering College, Hyderabad (Telangana), India.
Published: September 2024

Research into emotion detection is crucial because of the wide range of fields that can benefit from it, including healthcare, intelligent customer service, and education. In comparison to unimodal approaches, multimodal emotion recognition (MER) integrates many modalities including text, facial expressions, and voice to provide better accuracy and robustness. This article provides a historical and present-day overview of MER, focusing on its relevance, difficulties, and approaches. We examine several datasets, comparing and contrasting their features and shortcomings; they include IEMOCAP and MELD. Recent developments in deep learning approaches, particularly fusion strategies such as early, late, and hybrid fusion are covered in the literature review. Data redundancy, complicated feature extraction, and real-time detection are among the identified shortcomings. Our suggested technique enhances emotion recognition accuracy by using deep learning to extract features using a hybrid fusion approach. To overcome existing restrictions and advance the area of MER, this study intends to direct future investigations in the right direction. Examining various data fusion strategies, reviewing new methodologies in multimodal emotion identification, and identifying problems and research needs to make up the primary body of this work.
Relação entre dor crônica e estado cognitivo de pacientes com doenças crônicas não transmissíveis
Authors: Sousa Wisble Pereira de , Leite Mateus Medeiros , Rehem Tania Cristina Morais Santa Bárbara , Volpe Cris Renata Grou , Funghetto Silvana Schwerz , Stival Marina Morato , Lima Luciano Ramos de
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: relacionar a dor crônica e a alteração cognitiva de pacientes atendidos na atenção primária. Método: estudo de transversal, quantitativo, amostra n=351 pacientes com doenças crônicas não transmissível. Variáveis: perfil demográfico, socioeconômico, hábitos de vida e variáveis clínicas, parâmetros bioquímicos sanguíneos; cognição avaliada pelo instrumento Mine Exame do Estado Mental; a dor crônica foi avaliada pela Escala Numérica e questionário de McGILL. Resultados: prevaleceu a maioria de mulheres, idosas, que tinham Diabetes Mellitus (DM) e hipertensão arterial. A alteração do estado cognitivo afetou 57,5% dos idosos e 53,5% tinham dor intensa. Os descritores de dor de McGILL foram latejante, fina, calor/queimação, doída, cansativa e castigante. Análise de regressão logística foram associadas à dor intensa, ter dor crônica (OR=19,50),) presença de DM (OR=2,40) e sexo feminino (OR=2,12). Conclusão: o estado cognitivo alterado afetou mais da metade dos idosos e não teve associação com dor crônica.
Fluxo de encaminhamento de pacientes para sala de pé diabético: relato de experiência
Authors: Matheus Fernanda Araújo Valle , Rocha Tamara Angélica da , Oliveira Carliana de Melo , Lassala Janaína Nascimento , Souza Maria Gabriela Santos de , Moreira Felipe Teclo , Alves Lucas Coleta dos Reis , Gonçalves Jaqueline Madureira
Published: September 2024

Objetivo: descrever experiência de implantação de um fluxo de encaminhamento de pessoas com DM para uma sala de pé diabético. Método: Estudo descritivo no formato de relato de experiência, ocorreu entre janeiro de 2023 à janeiro de 2024, no subúrbio ferroviário, na Atenção Primária de Salvador, Bahia, Brasil. Resultados: A implantação do Fluxo de encaminhamento de pessoas com diabetes foi organizados de modo a conter orientações gerais na chegada do paciente, as atribuições da equipe da Atenção primária e o passo a passo de como fazer teste de monofilamento de semmes-weinstein de 10 g, como fazer o teste de toque leve ou ipswich touch test e como fazer o teste do Indice tíbial braquial (ITB), para a partir desses testes fazer a Estratificação de Risco, conforme o IWGDF 2019, recomendações de tratamento e frequência da avaliação dos pés dos pacientes diabéticos acompanhados na APS. Conclusão: A implantação de um fluxo de encaminhamento para pessoas com diabetes para uma sala de pé diabético poderá favorecer a organização das unidades da atenção primária de modo que haja ampliação do rastreio e prevenção de úlceras em pés destas pessoas, redução da morbimortalidade, melhoria dos hábitos de vida saudáveis e redução de custos para o SUS
A mitológia boldog ráismerés, hogy nem vagyunk egyedül
Authors: Kovács Karola
Published: September 2024

Magyar Zoltán–Németh Gyula–P. Szathmáry István: Bestiarium Hungaricum. Csodás lények és teremtmények a magyar néphagyományban. Bp., Cser Kiadó, 2023. 251 old.
Vissza a kertbe?
Authors: Bakos Áron
Published: September 2024

Byung-Chul Han: A föld dicsérete. Ford. Zilahi Anna. Bp., Typotex, 2022. 158. old.
Society Spotlight
Authors: Ashraf Daanyaal , Sneddon Sharon , Sartania Nana
Published: September 2024

A welcome from your Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Student Associates! The newly formed MBChB Student Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Representative Group (pictured with Professor Malcolm Shepherd, Head of School) is composed of students from all years of the MBChB who are working to: · Promote knowledge and understanding of EDI within the school. · Work alongside the UMS EDI Implementation Working Group to plan and organize events. · Support each other to identify and develop priorities for the school in EDI matters. The group is keen to make positive changes to the school in terms of policies and supporting all students. Keep your eyes peeled for details of our upcoming events, and we will be putting out a call for new MBChB1 students to join the group. - Dr Sharon Sneddon

The new WAMS group is actively promoting a range of events for the coming academic year and has a strong social presence (@guwideningaccess; Glasgow University Widening Access to Medicine Student Society or via wamss.gu@gmail.com); the society plans to run a mentorship program and various educational and social events to which everyone is welcome. Study skills are a top priority for the group, so keep an eye out for their ads on big TV screens at the Wolfson entrance and also via the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing Outreach and Widening Participation webpage. The SoMDN WP page has lots of useful information for current and future students, and hosts staff-student co-created resources (e.g., note-taking or how to approach coursework, etc). These resources are tailored to your level and can give you the tips and knowledge you require - we hope you will find these useful and of an appropriate level. We look forward to seeing you at these events! - Prof Nana Sartania