bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Hydrophobicity, Thermal Stability, and X-Ray Shielding Efficiency of BaSO₄/P(VDF-HFP) Nanocomposites for Advanced Lead-Free Radiation Protection
Authors: Kaew-on Chaiporn , Yuennan Jureeporn , Tohluebaji Nikruesong , Phongpichit Channuie , Ruangdit Soraya , Samran Ritiron , Tochomphoo Thanaphorn , Siri Ratchaneewan
Published: January 2025

In this research, polymer composite sheets were developed by blending poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) or P(VDF-HFP) with varying concentrations of barium sulfate (BaSO₄) for X-ray shielding applications. The photon counting technique was used to evaluate the composite shielding characteristics through the linear attenuation coefficient. Surface properties, including surface morphology, hydrophobicity, and surface energy, were analyzed using an atomic force microscope (AFM) and a water contact angle machine. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was employed to investigate the microstructural distribution and dispersion of BaSO₄ particles within the polymer matrix, providing insights into the composite's uniformity and structural integrity. Additionally, the bulk properties of the composite polymer sheets, such as crystal structures, tensile strength, and thermal stability, were examined. The results demonstrate that increasing the concentration of BaSO₄ in BaSO₄/P(VDF-HFP) composite sheets significantly improves their X-ray attenuation capabilities. Moreover, higher BaSO₄ concentrations enhance the material's hydrophobicity, flexibility, and thermal stability, highlighting the potential of these composites for advanced radiation-shielding applications.
Structural Behavior of Circular Macro-Synthetic-Fiber Concrete Columns Reinforced by CFRP Bars
Authors: Shafienia Mohsen
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the axial compression performance and theoretical analysis of macro-synthetic-fiber-reinforced concrete (MSFRC) columns reinforced with carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) bars. A comprehensive testing program was developed to assess and compare the structural behavior of columns made with both traditional and advanced materials. Key variables included plain concrete (PC), macro-synthetic-reinforced concrete (MSRC), longitudinal steel/CFRP bars, and variations in the steel spiral/hoop bar pitch. Sixteen specimens were fabricated in four groups (CRPC, CRMSP, SRPC, and SRMSP) to capture these
variations. The results showed consistent failure modes across all specimens, with good alignment between experimental outcomes and theoretical predictions. Axial compression strengths for CRPC and CRMSP specimens reached, on average, 89.57% and 91.83% of the strengths observed in SRPC and SRFC specimens, respectively. The ductility index (DI) of CRCC and CRMSP columns was 8.54% and 12.14% higher than that of their SRPC and SRMSP counterparts. Furthermore, the CRMSP and SRMSP columns demonstrated higher axial strain than their CRCC and SRPC equivalents, with average increases of 19% and 11% under peak compression loads, respectively. Although North American codes currently do not propose the use of CFRP bars as compressive elements in reinforced concrete (RC) and do not provide specific design guidelines [5-8], the proposed theoretical model accurately predicted the performance of the tested columns. The test result of compression strength was close to proposed equations considering the axial contribution of CFRP longitudinal bars and integrated additional factors such as steel spiral/hoop reinforcement, volumetric reinforcement ratios, and concrete type after concrete cover spalling.
Multispheroidal model of magnetic field of uncertain extended energy-saturated technical object
Authors: Kuznetsov B. I. , Nikitina T. B. , Bovdui I. V. , Chunikhin K. V. , Kolomiets V. V. , Kobylianskyi B. B.
Published: January 2025

Problem. The implementation of strict requirements for magnetic silence of elongated energy-saturated technical objects – such as naval vessel and submarines is largely determined by the adequacy of mathematical models to the signatures of a real magnetic field. Aim. Simplification of mathematical modeling of the magnetic field of an uncertain extended energy-saturated object based on the development and application of a multispheroidal model of its magnetic field instead of the well-known multidipole model. Methodology. Coordinates of the geometric location and magnitudes of spatial extended spheroidal harmonics of spheroidal sources of multispheroidal model of magnetic field calculated as magnetostatics geometric inverse problems solution in the form of nonlinear minimax optimization problem based on near field measurements for prediction far extended technical objects magnetic field magnitude. Nonlinear objective function calculated as the weighted sum of squared residuals between the measured and predicted magnetic field COMSOL Multiphysics software package used. Nonlinear minimax optimization problems solutions calculated based on particle swarm nonlinear optimization algorithms. Results. Results of prediction far magnetic field magnitude of extended technical objects based on designed multispheroidal model of the magnetic field in the form of spatial prolate spheroidal harmonics in prolate spheroidal coordinate system using near field measurements with consideration of extended technical objects magnetic characteristics uncertainty. Originality. For the first time the method for design of multispheroidal model of magnetic field of uncertain extended energy-saturated technical object based on magnetostatics geometric inverse problems solution and magnetic field spatial spheroidal harmonics calculated in prolate spheroidal coordinate system taking into account of technical objects magnetic characteristics uncertainties developed. Practical value. It is shown the possibility to reduce the number of spheroidal sources of the magnetic field for adequate modeling of the real magnetic field based on the developed multispheroidal model compared to the number of well-known dipole sources of the magnetic field in the multidipole model of the magnetic field. References 48, figures 4.
Distribution of volumes of plasma channels components between metal granules in working liquids
Authors: Shydlovska N. A. , Zakharchenko S. M. , Zakharchenko M. F. , Kulida M. A. , Zakusilo S. A. , Yakovenko R. A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction. Expanding the capabilities of a number of modern technologies and improving quality of their products require detailed spark and plasma erosion processes control in metal granules layers (MGL). Problem. Traditional measurement of exclusively electrical parameters of these processes, even in the case of multi-electrode systems, provides only a general vision, not allowing monitoring processes in individual plasma channels. Optical control methods make it possible to simultaneously have information about almost every plasma channel in the MGL. The aim of the article is to study the characteristic components of plasma channels arising as a result of the flow of discharge currents in the MGL and to establish the laws of distribution of their volumes and their ratios. Methodology. During the experiments, photographs of plasma channels resulting from the flow of discharge current pulses between Al granules immersed in distilled water were obtained. Using the specialized ToupView program, the volumes of equivalent ellipsoids of rotation, approximating the colored halos and white cores of the plasma channels were determined. Discrete distributions of the volumes of the halo and cores of plasma channels, as well as their ratios were constructed both with and without procedures for screening out «anomalous» results. The efficiency of approximation of discrete distributions obtained in practice by continuous theoretical distributions Weibull, Rosin-Rammler and log-normal was estimated. Results. It is shown that of all the considered theoretical distributions of halo and cores of plasma channels volumes, as well as their ratios, the most adequate is the log-normal one. Originality. For the first time distributions of volumes of halo and cores of plasma channels were studied and their comparative analysis with the size distributions of erosion particles and dimples on the surface of Al granules was given. Practical significance. Taking into account the new obtained results, a technique for constructing distributions of volumes of halo and cores of plasma channels and determining their parameters has been developed. References 53, figures 7, tables 5.
Распространение вариантов вируса SARS-COV-2, вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), на основе количества их геномов, депонированных в базу данных GISAID за неделю с 18 по 24 января 2025 г.
Authors: Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Краснов Ярослав , Осина Наталья , Зимирова Анастасия , Иванова Александра , Карнаухов Игорь , Караваева Татьяна , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: January 2025

В обзоре представлена информация по циркулирующим в настоящее время вариантам вируса SARS-COV-2 Omicron вызывающих интерес (VOI) и находящихся под наблюдением (VUM), геномные последовательности которых размещены в международной базе данных GISAID за неделю с 18 по 24 января 2025 г.
Efectividad y seguridad del método ecoguiado respecto al convencional en la colocación del catéter venoso central en pacientes críticos del servicio de emergencia de un hospital público peruano
Authors:   , Peralta Lopez Jenny Pilar
Published: January 2025

En los hospitales peruanos, uno de los desafíos en emergencias es la inserción de Catéteres Venosos Centrales (CVC) en pacientes críticos, especialmente cuando el acceso venoso periférico es difícil. Este procedimiento se realiza de dos maneras: mediante puntos anatómicos o con asistencia de ecografía, siendo esta última recomendada en guías internacionales por su precisión en identificar venas clave y reducir complicaciones. El CVC es esencial para administrar medicamentos complejos, realizar monitoreo y otros tratamientos en pacientes graves. Aunque la técnica ecoguiada mejora la seguridad y el éxito del procedimiento, requiere entrenamiento y equipos costosos, y su uso puede limitar las habilidades en el método anatómico. Las complicaciones del CVC incluyen punción arterial, neumotórax y embolia aérea, sobre todo en casos de acceso subclavio o en pacientes con condiciones complicadas. Estudios demuestran que la ecografía reduce el riesgo de complicaciones y aumenta la tasa de éxito en el primer intento, especialmente en pacientes pediátricos y críticos. Además, el número de intentos fallidos incrementa las probabilidades de efectos adversos.
Relación entre salud mental de enfermeros y calidad del cuidado en un Hospital del distrito de San Juan de Miraflores, 2023
Authors:   , Samaniego Alva Elizabeth Karina
Published: January 2025

Los enfermeros(as) enfrentan una carga laboral constante que puede ocasionar una alta prevalencia de síntomas como depresión, ansiedad y trastornos del sueño, como resultado, la calidad del cuidado brindado puede verse afectado en varios aspectos y habilidades. Objetivo: Determinar la relación entre salud mental de enfermeros y calidad del cuidado en un hospital del distrito de San Juan de Miraflores, 2023. Método: Estudio aplicado, enfoque cuantitativo, nivel relacional, no experimental transversal, con una muestra de 169 enfermeras y 235 pacientes, se empleó la técnica de encuesta, utilizando dos cuestionarios, el "DASS - 21" para medir depresión, ansiedad y estrés, y otro cuestionario para evaluar la calidad del cuidado. Se aplicaron análisis estadísticos descriptivos e inferenciales, incluyendo la Prueba de Chi-Cuadrado de Pearson, con el fin de validar la hipótesis planteada. Resultados: Se demostró que 66.0% de pacientes refieren un nivel moderado de cuidado por parte de los enfermeros. Por otro lado, un 70.41% de enfermeros (as) presentó un nivel moderadamente afectado de salud mental siendo medicina en un 36.7% el servicio más afectado, siendo la mayoría de ellos de entre 31 y 40 años de edad. Conclusión: el análisis bivariado realizado mediante la prueba Chi cuadrado de Pearson indica que la salud mental moderada de los enfermeros y el nivel de cuidado no tienen una relación significativa entre ambas variables, dado que el valor p registrado fue de 2.12 (p>0,05).
Machine Learning-Based Prediction of Exercise Intensity Using Skin Entropy During Incremental Cycling
Authors: Du Jiawei , Hu Chenxi , Du Ning , Zhao Li , Yu Ji-Guo , Song Yafeng
Published: January 2025

Skin entropy, derived from skin temperature, is considered an intuitive indicator of dynamic physiological states during exercise. This study investigates the association between skin entropy and exercise intensity. Forty young males performed incremental cycling, during which physiological measurements (heart rate, oxygen consumption, pulmonary ventilation, and respiratory exchange ratio) and skin temperatures at three predetermined regions of interest (ROIs: forehead, chest, and abdomen) were recorded. Skin temperature data were transformed into entropy values, and comparative analyses were conducted to assess changes in skin temperature and entropy values at the three ROIs before and after exercise. Post-exercise, skin temperatures on the chest and abdomen significantly decreased, while the forehead remained unchanged. Conversely, entropy values at all three ROIs significantly increased after exercise. Correlation analysis revealed significant associations between skin entropy and physiological parameters, rather than temperature. Additionally, the XGBoost machine learning classification model was trained using chest and forehead entropy data to predict exercise intensity, achieving accuracies of 86.06% and 70.03%, respectively. In conclusion, skin entropy shows considerable potential as an alternative method for monitoring exercise intensity.
Dynamicasome! Comprehensive Mutational Analysis and AI-Driven Prediction of PMM2 Pathogenicity: Integrating Molecular Dynamics Simulations with Machine Learning Models
Authors: Caulfield Thomas , Islam Naeyma , Coban Mathew , Fuller Jessica , Weber Caleb , Chitale Rohit , Jussila Benjamin , Brock Trisha , Tao Cui
Published: January 2025

Advances in genomic medicine have accelerated the identification of mutations in disease- associated genes, but the pathogenicity of many mutations remains unknown, hindering their use in diagnostics and clinical decision-making. Predictive AI models have been generated to combat this issue, but current tools display low accuracy when tested against functionally validated datasets. We show that integrating detailed conformational data extracted from molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) into advanced AI-based models can increase their predictive power. We carried out an exhaustive mutational analysis of the disease gene PMM2 and subjected structural models of each variant to MDS. AI models trained on this dataset outperformed existing tools when predicting the known pathogenicity of mutations. Our best performing model, a neuronal networks model, was also able to predict the pathogenicity of several PMM2 mutations currently considered of unknown significance. We believe this new model will help alleviate the burden of unknown variants in genomic medicine.
H3K27me3 epigenetic mark crucial for callus cell identity and regeneration capacity
Authors: Williams Leor Eshed , Mandel Tali , Landau udi , Kaplan Tommy , Cohen Yotam
Published: January 2025

Plant callus cells possess a remarkable ability to regenerate organs that often differ from their respective origins or even entire new individuals. Yet, the mechanisms underlying their pluripotent state remain elusive. We propose a strategy that involves two independent mechanisms to endow callus cells with pluripotency: (1) maintaining a unique transcriptional profile, characterised by the expression of genes from diverse developmental pathways that allows rapid response to developmental cues; (2) preventing premature differentiation through H3K27 methylation-mediated silencing of key transcription factors such as WUCHEL and SPEECHLESS. This strategy relies on a mechanism to silence the pluripotency network upon regenerative stimuli, enabling a single developmental pathway to dominate. Our study reveals that the EMF2 complex, a key regulator of H3K27 tri-methylation, plays a crucial role in this process. Callus derived from the emf2 mutant, deficient in H3K27me3, exhibits severely impaired regeneration. Comparative analyses of chromatin states and transcription profiles between wild-type and emf2 calli revealed that the loss of EMF2 leads to upregulation of key transcription factors in callus, and identified the genes regulated solely by EMF2. Our findings suggest that suppressing pluripotency networks through H3K27me3 is essential for executing specific developmental programs to ensure effective regeneration.
The accessibility and inaccessibility of urban public charging station
Authors: Qian Xinwu , Gazmeh Hossein , Small Mario L. , Wang Qi , Guo Yuntao
Published: January 2025

Unlike refueling at gas stations, charging an electric vehicle (EV) requires significantly more time, ranging from 20 minutes to over an hour, even with the fastest chargers. This prolonged charging duration introduces unique complexities to the fundamental understanding of public charging station (PCS) accessibility, raises questions about the ongoing relevance of spatial proximity for different population groups, and highlights the need to consider amenities near PCS that users can access along their daily routines. To account for these critical distinctions, we introduce visit-based accessibility, a metric that evaluates PCS availability relative to amenities frequented during urban routine activities. Leveraging data from over 28,000 PCSs, 5.2 million points of interest (POIs), and mobility patterns from more than 35 million cell phone users across 20 major U.S. metropolitan areas, we reveal a striking mismatch between PCS locations and the spatial proximity to and the daily needs of their intended users. While existing PCSs are spatially proximate to lower-income communities, our visit-based measure reveals significant disparities, as these communities' routine activities align significantly less with PCS locations. Furthermore, when considering dwell time at nearby amenities, higher-income communities exhibit better alignment of PCSs with routine activities and longer dwell times at nearby POIs, which are also the most extensively covered by existing PCSs. Finally, our analysis reveals that experienced income and racial segregation are likely the major impedance for accessing PCSs that are spatially adjacent, which highlights a hidden social barrier where greater divergence from typical social encounters near charging infrastructure is associated with lower visit rates to PCSs. These findings underscore the necessity for targeted strategies to ensure equitable access to charging infrastructure, addressing both spatial and functional disparities to promote sustainable and inclusive urban development.
Ei24 deficiency in brown adipocytes induces severe hypothermia under cold stress independent of UCP1 activity
Authors: Lee Han-Woong , Lee Subin , Bui Thu , Nam Tae Wook , Song Yaechan , Lee Jae Hoon , Jeong Yangsik
Published: January 2025

Brown adipocytes facilitate non-shivering thermogenesis, which is critical for maintaining energy balance and heat production in response to environmental stimuli. Here, we delineate the physiological and biochemical role of etoposide-induced 2.4 (Ei24) in adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production and thermogenesis in brown adipocytes. We generated Ei24 adipocyte-specific knockout (EiaKO) mice that exhibited brown adipose tissue hypertrophy, lipid accumulation, and various mitochondrial abnormalities. Despite mitochondrial defects, uncoupling protein 1 (UCP1) expression and activity remained unchanged. However, those impairments caused lethal hypothermia in mice subjected to cold challenge, underscoring the key role of Ei24 in mitochondrial functions. The morphological and functional defects of EiaKO brown adipocyte mitochondria were due to compromised proton-motive force, ATP synthesis, and fatty acid oxidation. Our findings highlight the critical role of Ei24 in sustaining mitochondrial function independently of UCP1 expression and activity, emphasizing its connection between mitochondrial respiration and thermogenesis in brown adipocytes.
A codon usage-based approach for the stratification of Influenza A
Authors: Alfonsi Tommaso , Chiara Matteo , Bernasconi Anna
Published: January 2025

Background: Influenza A virus (IAV) is a highly adaptable pathogen that poses a significant threat to human health. Genomic surveillance of IAVs is a complex task due to its broad host range, its zoonotic potential, and rapid evolution. Strategies based on codon preference analysis have been successfully employed for the categorization of IAVs with different host specificity in the past. Hence, monitoring codon usage adaptation, where viral codon preferences align with host preferences to enhance replication efficiency, offers a promising strategy for tracking IAV and identifying significant epidemiological events.
Results: In this study, we develop a computational workflow for the analysis and stratification of IAVs based on codon usage profiles across large datasets. Using three key case studies--the 2009 H1N1 pandemic, the H7N9 epidemic in China (2013–2017), and the long-term circulation of H5N1 in domestic birds--we demonstrate the applicability of codon usage metrics for capturing patterns of viral adaptation and genomic diversification. Our approach uncovered interesting genomic features, which are not always reflected by the clade-based nomenclature. Interestingly a reduced set of amino acids and associated codons was sufficient to summarize salient patterns of IAV genomes, suggesting shared evolutionary pressures across IAV serotypes.
Conclusion: Codon usage-based stratification effectively highlighted key epidemiological events and enabled detailed comparisons of genomic features across IAV serotypes. This approach provides a scalable framework for IAV genomic surveillance, offering insights into viral evolution and adaptation. Its general applicability makes it suitable for extending to other Influenza A serotypes, particularly those for which available genomic data are limited or a reference nomenclature is not established.
Evaluation of climatic and non-climatic influence on malaria prevalence in the Upper River Region of The Gambia
Authors: Okafor Ugochinyere Agatha , D’Alessandro Umberto , Ojeh Vincent Nduka , Filho Walter Leal , Alhassah Iddisah , Yaffa Sidat
Published: January 2025

Despite the scale-up of intervention, malaria remains a burden in the Upper River Region of The Gambia. Climate changes and non-climatic conditions can have a substantial influence on malaria prevalence, and further affect the coverage of preventive interventions. This work aimed at exploring the different risk factors, both climatic and non-climatic, associated with malaria. A descriptive research method using a parallel mixed method approach was adopted. Using a multistage approach, 381 households were selected from the region, and primary data was collected from household heads. Descriptive statistics were performed using StataSE18, and the significant influence of environmental and socioeconomic factors was analyzed using Chi-square (Χ2). Thematic analysis for the qualitative part was carried out using Nvivo. Malaria is heavily influenced by rainfalls and floods and by some of the measured non-climatic factors. These results will provide individuals, professionals, government, and policymakers valuable information for better-targeting malaria control efforts.
Evaluating Earthquake Impacts in Oslo, Norway: A Multi-Method Approach
Authors: Ghione Federica , Molina-Palacios Sergio , Torabi Anita , Oye Volker
Published: January 2025

Effectively presenting seismic risk results is crucial for ensuring that stakeholders, including policymakers and first-responders can understand and utilize the information for decision-making and risk mitigation. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive seismic risk assessment for Oslo (capital of Norway), integrating both deterministic and probabilistic approaches to capture a holistic view of potential earthquake impacts. Based on the field data from exposed major faults in the Oslo rift margin and historical earthquakes in this region, the deterministic analysis examined three scenarios using SELENA software: i) an Mw 5.4 earthquake that occurred in 1904 in the Oslo rift zone; ii) a hypothetical Mw 6.0 event on the east side of the rift zone, and iii) a hypothetical Mw 6.0 event along an exposed fault zone in the central rift zone. These scenarios were selected to reflect a few possible seismic events with varying likelihoods and severities. For both, deterministic and probabilistic approaches, one specific neighbourhood in the Oslo city region emerged as the most affected area due to its dense population and older building stock, highlighting the critical interplay between physical hazard and community-specific vulnerability. The combination of deterministic and probabilistic approaches offers a detailed and nuanced understanding of seismic risks in Oslo. The findings underscore the need for targeted mitigation efforts and preparedness strategies, particularly in neighbourhoods that are more susceptible to seismic risks. By integrating these comprehensive risk assessments, the study provides valuable insights into the uneven distribution of seismic risk across Oslo. The results aim to inform local authorities and policymakers, aiding in the development of effective strategies to enhance the resilience of the city's infrastructure and population against future seismic events.
Structural Basis for the Assembly of Amyloid Fibrils by the Master Cell-Signaling Regulator Human Receptor-Interacting Protein Kinase 1
Authors: Mompeán Miguel , López-Alonso Jorge Pedro , Ubarretxena-Belandia Iban , Jiang Hanxing , Escobedo-Gonzáles Fatima Carolina , Titaux-Delgado Gustavo Alfredo , Polonio Paula
Published: January 2025

Amyloid fibrils, typically associated with neurodegenerative diseases, also play critical roles as functional assemblies in biological processes. The RIP homotypic interaction motifs (RHIMs) in receptor-interacting protein kinases 1 and 3 (RIPK1 and RIPK3) are essential for necroptosis, orchestrating the formation of amyloid-like fibrils that assemble into necrosomes. These supramolecular complexes propagate cell death signals and activate effectors like MLKL. While the structures of human RIPK3 (hRIPK3) homomeric fibrils and RIPK1-RIPK3 heteromeric fibrils have been resolved, the atomic structure of human RIPK1 (hRIPK1) homomeric fibrils has remained elusive.

Here, we present a high-resolution structure of hRIPK1 RHIM-mediated amyloid fibrils, determined using an integrative approach combining cryoprobe-detected solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and cryo-electron microscopy. The fibrils adopt an N-shaped amyloid fold consisting of three β-sheets stabilized by the conserved IQIG RHIM motif through hydrophobic interactions and hydrogen bonding. A key hydrogen bond between N545 and G542 closes the β2-β3 loop, resulting in denser side-chain packing compared to hRIPK3 homomeric fibrils. This structural feature likely contributes to the compact architecture of hRIPK1 fibrils, in contrast to the more relaxed S-shaped fold observed in hRIPK3.

These findings provide structural insights into how hRIPK1 homomeric fibrils nucleate hRIPK3 recruitment and fibrillization during necroptosis, offering broader perspectives on the molecular principles governing RHIM-mediated amyloid assembly and functional amyloids.
Longterm Outcome of Adults With Acute Myeloid Leukemia on the Basis of Their Risk Stratification in a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Hashmi Urooj Haider , Khurshid Mohammad , zehra Nida e , Tareen Farrukh Zia , Ain Qurat ul
Published: January 2025

This study aims to assess the long-term outcomes of AML patients in LMICs, focusing on survival rates, relapse, and post-treatment morbidity, as well as factors influencing these outcomes in resource-limited settings.
We analyzed the outcome of newly diagnosed AML patients who underwent chemotherapy at Aga Khan University Hospital Karachi. A total of 178 eligible patients were available for assessment. Cytogenetic and molecular workup of 152 patients was available according to which 11.8% were favorable risk, 54.6% were intermediate risk and remaining 33.5% were poor risk. Among these 178 patients who underwent chemotherapy 58.42% achieved remission, 12.92% experienced induction failure and 28.56% died during induction. A total of 13.48% patients were long term survivors who remained disease free at 5 years of follow-up. 20.79% relapsed within 1 year of therapy and 10.11% relapsed after 1 year but within 5 years. 15 patients who were disease free at 2 years did not follow up beyond that period.
On the basis of risk assessment 72.22% patients in favorable risk, 51.8 % in intermediate risk and 45.09% in poor risk category achieved remission. And 27.78% favorable risk, 9.64% intermediate risk and 11.76% poor risk category were long term survivors.
These results suggest long-term outcomes for AML patients in LMICs are significantly influenced by healthcare system limitations, socioeconomic challenges, and lack of access to novel therapies. To improve survival and quality of life, interventions should focus on early diagnosis, access to standard chemotherapy regimens, and post-treatment care.
Prevalence and correlates of depression and psychological distress among garment factory employees in Hambantota District, Sri Lanka.
Authors: Obadaarachchi Lasith , Isuru Amila , Hewage Suwin , Wipuladasa Manuja , Williams shehan
Published: January 2025

Background
Garment factory employees have been identified as a high-risk population for developing depression in Asian countries. Depression is recognised as a potentially reversible risk factor for low productivity in the garment factory workforce. Therefore, identification and treatment of depression in garment factory workers can improve productivity and their quality of life in general. The study aimed to determine the prevalence and correlates of depression in garment factory workers in the Hambantota district, Sri Lanka.
Methods
This is a cross-sectional descriptive study. The calculated sample size was 390, and a multistage random sampling method was used. Culturally validated General Health Questionnaire-12 and Beck Depression Inventory–II were used to screen for psychological morbidity and depression, respectively.
Results
The majority of 390 employees were females (n=325, 83.3%). The mean age was 32.9 years (SD—10.45 years). The prevalence of depression in the study sample was 16.80% (95% CI: 13.04% to 20.55%). Depression was associated with the presence of a chronic medical condition(OR-3.51, 95% CI:1.61-7.67, p<0.002), family history of psychiatric illness (OR-3.03 95% CI-1.11 to 8.26, p<0.03), history of deliberate self-harm (OR-10.79 95% CI-4.68 to 24.89, p<0.001), history of psychiatric illness (OR-6.12, 95% CI-2.39-15.73, p<0.001), and being divorced or separated from their partner. The only job-related factor that correlates with depression was working extra duty hours (OR-1.74, CI 1.01-3.02, p<0.05).
Conclusions
The prevalence of depression among garment factory employees in Hambantota district is high. However, it is relatively lower compared to garment factory populations in other developing Asian countries.
Decoding Innovation Potential of Japanese Firms with A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Kawewong Niyata , Manoli Napitiporn , Matsuura Yoshiyuki
Published: January 2025

This study proposes an efficiency technique for predicting firm-level innovation capabilities utilizing machine learning models for improving the forecast accuracy. The study employed boosted trees and neural boosting models and compared them with traditional statistical regression methods in anticipating a firm’s innovation potential represented by patent applications. The 8 financial internal resources were used as a predictor that emerged from 1991 to 2019. Two key findings of validation are merged to predict an internal indicator of innovation capability. First, firm size is the most important predictor, contributing over half of the predictive power according to the model, followed by R&D intensity and efficiency. Second, as the most effective machine learning model for prediction results, the boosted tree model outperformed the neural boosting model and fixed effect regression, as evidenced by higher R-squared values and lower RASE, demonstrating its ability to capture the complexity of invention activity. These findings provide a solid foundation for future research on firm-level innovation prediction, demonstrating the effectiveness of machine learning algorithms in recognizing complex innovation patterns. The findings also show that selected internal resources could strategically invest in innovation to promote the firm's innovation development.
Bioavailability of Heavy Metals in Soils from a City with Fe-Nb-REE Mineral Development
Authors: Ji Rui , Li Chi , Luo Jing , Gao Yu , Li Shuanhu , Wang Xiaorong , Tian Lei , Chen Xiangmei , Yao De
Published: January 2025

Baotou, a city renowned for its steel production and rare earth resource development, is facing significant threats from heavy metal pollution in its urban soils. This study analyzed nine soil samples from urban Baotou to assess the bioavailability of heavy metals, including rare earth elements (REEs), As, and Pb, and evaluate the environmental risks posed by these elements in soils. The bioavailabilities of REEs, As, and Pb were quantitatively examined through in vitro simulated digestion experiments involving physiologically based extraction tests (PBET) and in vitro gastrointestinal (IVG) methods. The results indicate that the bioavailability of REEs is relatively low, with higher bioavailability observed in PBET tests compared to IVG tests. Overall, the REE bioavailability was lower than those of As and Pb, and the REE bioavailability was higher in the gastric phase than in the gastrointestinal phase. Speciation analysis revealed that approximately 80% of the REEs were present in the residual fraction. Meanwhile, the non-residual fractions were primarily composed of carbonate-bound, Fe/Mn oxides-bound, and strong organic matter-bound REEs, exchangeable REEs accounting for less than 0.5%.
Copper ferrite nanoparticles: an efficient catalyst for the one-pot four-component synthesis of pyrano[2,3-c] pyrazole derivatives
Authors: Mhaske Amruta K. , Gadhave Anil G. , Patil Sachin V. , Baste Yogeshwar R. , Uphade Bhagwat K.
Published: January 2025

An efficient CuFe2O4 nonocatalyzed was synthesized by using triton X-100 as a surfactant in water. The synthesized catalyst was characterized by using FTIR, XRD, EDX, SEM and TEM techniques. The nanocatalyst successfully synthesized pyrano[2,3-c] pyrazoles derivatives through one-pot four-component condensation of aromatic aldehydes, malononitrile, ethyl acetoacetate and hydrazine hydrate in the presence of a catalytic amount of CuFe2O4 as an efficient and inexpensive nanocatalyst. The yield of pyrano[2,3-c] pyrazoles was studied using various reaction parameters such as the amount of catalyst, type of solvent, reaction condition and time. This multicomponent reaction is simple, reduces toxicity, has a short reaction time and has a high product yield. All the synthesized pyrano[2,3-c] pyrazoles derivatives were characterized by IR, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR analysis. Additionally, the catalyst was reusable for up to four reaction runs.
Chemical Activation of Castor Stalk-Derived Porous Carbon for Highly Efficient CO 2 Adsorption in Sustainable Carbon Capture Applications
Authors: Pramanik Panchanan , Gupta Renu , Bansal Ajay
Published: January 2025

Greenhouse gas emissions have become a pressing concern in recent times, with CO2 emerging as the primary culprit behind global warming, rising sea levels, and disruptions to ecosystems. Of all the greenhouse gases, CO2's impact on global warming stands out as the most significant. To address this issue, activated carbon (AC) has gained prominence as an effective CO2 adsorption agent, owing to its porous structure, expansive surface area, cost-effectiveness, and environmentally friendly properties. In this current research, activated carbon was produced from castor stalk biomass through a single-stage chemical activation process known as pyrolysis. This method is lauded for its cost-efficiency, simplicity, and minimal environmental impact. Potassium hydroxide (KOH) and aluminum sulfate (ALUM) were employed as the activating agents. Subsequently, the synthesized activated carbon was subjected to Methylene Blue adsorption testing to evaluate its CO2 adsorption capacity, among other potential applications. The characterization of the activated carbon derived from castor stalk involved a series of techniques, including CHNS analysis, proximate analysis, SEM, FTIR, XRD, and BET surface area analysis. These analyses unveiled the impressive attributes of the castor stalk-derived activated carbon, featuring an exceptionally high surface area of 1687 m2/g, a substantial pore volume of 1.015 cm3/g, and a pore diameter of 2.71 nm. Furthermore, the Methylene Blue adsorption test yielded a remarkable value of 447.72 mg/g with 89.5% adsorption efficiency. High CO2 adsorption capacity (2.46 mmol/g) was observed over castor stalk-derived activated carbon. The comparative study shows higher CO2 adsorption capacity in comparison to activated carbon derived from various biomasses using KOH as the activating agent. So, the present study shows activated carbon derived from Castor stalk using KOH and Alum as activating agent can be a promising method for CO2 adsorption.
Nutrient, phytochemical and carotenoid profiles of two cultivars of Pterocarpus santalinoides (nturukpa) as affected by selected processing methods
Authors: Okparauka Immaculata I , Ojimelukwe Philippa C
Published: January 2025

Two cultivars of Pterocarpus santalinoides (Nturukpa) (light green Avuo and dark green oseleukwu) were investigated for their nutrient composition, phytochemical content and carotenoid profiles. The effects of oven-drying at 550C for 1h 20 min; sauteeing in palm oil for 3 min and blanching in boiling water for 5 min on the nutrients and phytochemicals were evaluated. The nutrient content showed that the leaves were rich in protein (14.0%) and vitamin B6 73mg/100g). The leaves are also moderate sources of iron (6.2-7.4%), magnesium (42-44%), zinc (1.2%) and potassium (45.0-55.0%). Raw light green Avuo contained the highest amount of folate (vitamin B9). The pheolic contents, cyanogenic glycosides, anthocyanins, and phytates of the two P. santalinoides cultivars were statistically similar (p>0.05). Steroids, oxalate, tannins and alkaloids (7.7%) were higher in the light coloured cultivar (Avuo) while saponins and flavonoids (1.1%) were higher (p <0.5) in the dark green cultivar (Oseleukwu). The α-carotene, trans-β-carotene, and total β-carotene contents of the two P.santaniloides cultivars were statistically similar (P> 0.05). The most predominant peak in the chromatogram of the P. santalinoides was trans-beta-carotene. The nutrient and phytochemical composition of the two cultivars of P. santalinoides indicate that they are good sources of micronutrients and possess medicinal value.
A novel MAPK1 variant in a family with complex psychiatric and neurodegenerative clinical phenotype
Authors: Pokrzywa Wojciech , Dubey Abhishek , Rydzanicz Malgorzata , Barczak Anna , Szulc Natalia , Surpeta Bartłomiej , Kuzniewska Bozena , Gaweda-Walerych Katarzyna , Wężyk Michalina , Berdyński Mariusz , Fichna Jakub , Kostrzewa Grażyna , Gasperowicz Piotr , Stępniak Iwona , Szymańska Krystyna , Szczałuba Krzysztof , Brezovsky Jan , Dziembowska Magdalena , Ploski Rafal
Published: January 2025

Neurodegenerative disorders leading to dementia often have multifactorial etiologies, but monogenic causes are occasionally identified. We report a three-generation family with two individuals (mother and son) affected by a non-syndromic psychiatric disorder featuring early-onset cognitive decline. Exome sequencing revealed a novel MAPK1 variant (Y128C), de novo in mother, inherited by her son. Modeling demonstrated that the variant alters a regulatory region known as common docking site. Functional studies in patient’s fibroblasts revealed normal levels of phosphorylated MAPK1/3 (pMAPK1/3) but a reduced pMAPK1/pMAPK3 ratio, consistent with diminished MAPK1 activity. Experiments in C. elegans revealed that the variant conferred partial loss of function, reflected in the developmental and reproductive defects. Given the elevated Tau levels in the proband’s cerebrospinal fluid, we also investigated the MAPK1 variant in a C. elegans model expressing human Tau in neurons and observed that it exacerbated age-dependent neurodegeneration, suggesting a context-dependent role in this process. These findings suggest that the MAPK1 Y128C variant causes a novel adult-onset psychiatric disorder with dementia, distinct from the neurodevelopmental syndrome previously associated with MAPK1 mutations.
Shattered Connections: Insights into Indian Corporate Performance in the Wake of Geoeconomic Fragmentation
Authors: SENGUPTA SWAPNANIL
Published: January 2025

The global economy is nearing fragmentation, which raises concerns about macrofinancial volatility, risks, and inefficiencies. This paper examines the effects of geoeconomic fragmentation on the financial performance of the Indian corporate sector. We analyse data from 55,104 Indian companies to assess how the global geopolitical risk index and the total number of sanctions impact corporate vulnerability, measured by the Altman Emerging Market Z-score, from 1990 to 2023. We use two-way Fixed Effects, Fully Modified OLS, Panel Dynamic OLS, and local projections to explore these relationships. Our findings show that higher fragmentation is linked to increased financial distress across all specifications. Cumulative impulse response functions indicate that financial distress peaks between years 7 and 10 after shocks from geopolitical risks and sanctions, with persistent vulnerabilities in the long term and sporadic recoveries. We also find that construction and services firms are most affected by geopolitical risks, while no statistically significant relationship could be established for financial, electricity, and mining firms. Analysing based on ownership structures, we conclude that joint firms experience the greatest negative impacts; however, government and foreign-private firms show no significant effects. Additionally, trade sanctions are found to be more impactful than financial sanctions.
JEL Codes: F36, F50, F51, G32
Leguminous and oil contaminated soils indigenous bacteria industrially more potent than unplanted soil
Authors: Shaheen Musrat , Fazal Lubna , Naz Gull , Akram Nadia , Sarwar Ayesha , Mahmood Sara
Published: January 2025

Leguminous and oil contaminated soils are considered an important rich reservoir for industrial and environmentally important bacteria. However, how indigenous bacteria from these rich soils are different in terms of multiple enzymatic potential in comparison of bacterial isolates from unplanted soil is needed to bio-prospect it. Here, a comparative study was conducted to measure simultaneous multiple enzymatic potential (amylase, lipase, protease) of three indigenous Bacillus spp (Bacillus sp.1, Bacillus sp.2, Bacillus sp.3) isolated from oil contaminated, leguminous and unplanted soils. A significant (P < 0.05) differences in multiple enzyme production among three Bacillus species collected from three different types of soil (oil contaminated, leguminous, unplanted) was revealed by utilizing variety of substrates (starch, soybean), (olive oil, sunflower oil) and (casein, soybean) respectively. Maximum amylase production (21.554 ± 1.120 mm) on starch and protease (14.350 ± 1.100mm) on casein was observed from Bacillus sp.2 (leguminous soil), while lipase production was (20.241 ± 1.990mm) high in Bacillus sp.1 (oil contaminated soil) on olive oil. However, Bacillus sp.3 (unplanted soil) exhibited least enzymes capabilities (3.458 ± O.135mm), (2.208 ± 0.215) and (4.516 ± 0.225mm), at 37°C temperature, pH 7 after 48 hour respectively. Furthermore, enzyme production significantly decreased with the increase of temperature from 47°C, to 57°C. Results showed positive relationship between rich soil (oil-contaminated, leguminous soil) and multiple bacterial enzymatic potential as compare to unplanted soil. These findings demonstrated that indigenous Bacillus species from above soil types, have potential for multiple industrial enzymes, further indicating, these soils as highly demanding habitats for investigation of indigenous bacterial diversity with variety of industrial potential.
Can Toll-Lıke Receptor 4 Gene Polymorphism Play a Role ın Pathogenesis of Breast Cancer?
Authors: Arpaci Erkan , Celik Sevim Karakas
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Breast cancer is one of the most common cause of death from cancer in women worldwide. Dynamic interaction between tumors and the immune system is essential for tumor survival, growth, and metastasis. The immune system is known to play a major role in preventing tumor progression by recognizing tumor antigens, and dysregulation of immune system activity could contribute to tumorigenesis. Recent studies have shown that dysregulation of innate immunity receptors such as Toll-like receptors (TLRs) play an important role in the activation of natural and adaptive immunity in response to endogenous hazard signals from pathogens and damaged or dead cells. These receptors are expressed in the immune system cells and some epithelial cells. Recent studies have shown that these receptors are also exaggerated in malignant breast cancer cells. Many studies have shown that the TLR4 gene expression is increased in breast cancer cells, but also associated with metastasis. However, there is no study that could correlate TLR4 gene polymorphisms with breast cancer.
Materials and methods: We conducted a case study with 100 patients and 100 healthy subjects and planned to investigate whether there is a relationship between TLR4 gene polymorphisms [rs4986790 (Asp299Gly) ve rs4986791 (Thr399Ile)] and breast cancer. In this study, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method was used for gene polymorphisms.
Results: It was observed that there was relationship between breast cancer and TLR4 gene polymorphisms. Because TLR-4 plays an active role in the innate immune system, the loss of function of this protein may lead to a depressed immune response, thus promoting cancer development.