bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cohousing as a form of social innovation: Challenges in a new geopolitical situation in Poland
Authors: Markiewicz Ewa
Published: April 2024

This article addresses the topic of cohousing, understood as a form of housing that promotes a lifestyle that places greater emphasis on social cohesion and creates conditions to ensure that all residents have the opportunity to meet basic social needs. In this view, cohousing coincides with the concept of social innovation. The aim of the article is to present the idea of cohousing as an example of social innovation and an attempt to determine its significance in the process of integration of Ukrainian citizens in Poland after February 24, 2022. The paper is theoretical in nature, and the method of analyzing foundational data was applied, which included publications, reports and research on the problem addressed. In the first part, the issue of social innovation was presented, the idea of cohousing was presented and its features as a form of social innovation were pointed out. The second part highlighted the importance of cohousing in the integration process of Ukrainian citizens in Poland after February 24, 2022. The results of the research showed that within the framework of the available solutions for the current situation, it is worth reaching for new forms of cohousing that enable active inclusion of people with refugee experience in decision-making processes and foster closer neighbourly contacts, neighbourly control, a sense of security and opportunities for social support.
Verbal descriptions modulate flavour perception and evaluation of wine: An exploratory study using Riesling and Muscat Bailey A wines
Authors: Onuma Takuya
Published: April 2024

Significant efforts have been made in the wine industry to assist customers in making purchase decisions and enhance their drinking experience by providing verbal descriptions of the complex sensory characteristics of wine. However, the influence of such verbal descriptions on wine flavour perception and evaluation has not been examined. To fill this gap, this exploratory study performed an experiment using white Riesling wine from the 2021 German vintage and red Muscat Bailey A (MBA) wine from the 2019 Japanese vintage. Forty-six Japanese individuals (23 social drinkers and 23 wine experts) participated and were presented with two glasses of Riesling wine and two glasses of MBA wine with different verbal descriptions. One glass of Riesling/MBA wine was served with a description including its distinct aroma descriptor (i.e., a ‘petrol’ note for the Riesling wine and a ‘strawberry candy’ note for the MBA wine). For the other glass, the description did not include the descriptor. The participants were asked to taste the wines and rate their palatability, perceived sweetness intensities, acidity, astringency, alcohol sensation, body, and expensiveness on a 7-point scale. The results demonstrated that the social drinkers rated the Riesling wine with the ‘petrol’ descriptor as heavier-bodied and more expensive compared to the same wine without the descriptor. The wine experts were not as influenced as the social drinkers, but the experts rated the Riesling wine with the ‘petrol’ descriptor as less expensive. In the case of MBA wine with the ‘strawberry candy’ descriptor, the social drinkers rated it as more expensive, whereas the wine experts rated it as more palatable than the same wine without the descriptor. The results indicated that verbal descriptions of wine aroma indeed modulated the flavour perception and evaluation of wine, but the modulation effect varied between social drinkers and wine experts.
IMMOBILIZATION OF A MICROBIAL FRUCTOSYLTRANSFERASE ON BIOCHAR AND BIOCHAR FUNCTIONALIZED WITH GLUTARALDEHYDE AIMING AT FRUCTOOLIGOSSACHARIDES PRODUCTION
Authors: Feitosa da Silva Thais , Marques de Oliveira Kauã , Rocha Pinto Rafaela , Santos Saraiva Larissa , Marchesan Raquel , Firmani Perna Rafael , Andres Villalba Morales Sergio , Da Cunha Abreu Xavier Michelle
Published: April 2024

Fructooligosaccharides (FOS) are a group of carbohydrates that have fructose units, with a glucose molecule at the end. These are structures that can be found in a wide variety of vegetables, being also produced chemically by the enzymatic transfructosylation reaction of sucrose. The present work aimed at the immobilization of the extracellular FTase enzyme from Aspergillus oryzae-IPT-301 on Eucalyptus biochar and Eucalyptus biochar functionalized with glutaraldehyde, for the enzymatic conversion of sucrose into FOS. Immobilization and reuse tests were carried out and immobilization yield and recovered activity calculated. The immobilization yield (IY) and recovered activity (RA) of the FTase immobilized on biochar were, 10.92% and 77.67%, respectively. The IY and RA of the FTase immobilized on the functionalized biochar were, 22.44% and 96.51%, respectively. The enzyme immobilized on functionalized biochar demonstrated transfructosylation activity for more cycles than the enzyme immobilized on biochar. The use of glutaraldehyde allowed 48% of initial enzymatic activity in the third cycle. Analyzes were conducted up to the sixth cycle, however, only 7% of initial enzymatic activity was achieved in the final cycle. These results suggest that functionalized biochar stands out as a support material for FTase immobilization aiming at FOS production catalyzed on heterogeneous biocatalysts.
SONO, CONTEXTO ACADÊMICO E PERCEPÇÃO SUBJETIVA DE ESTRESSE EM ESTUDANTES UNIVERSITÁRIOS EM PERÍODO PANDÊMICO: 24H-MESYN STUDY
Authors: Carvalho Azevedo Jacyara Christina , Marinho Franco Alaiana , Nascimento-Ferreira Marcus Vinicius
Published: April 2024

Tema Geral: Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde Objetivo: Examinar se há associação entre sono, contexto acadêmico e estresse percebido em estudantes universitários durante a pandemia de COVID-19. Métodos: Trata se de um estudo transversal que avaliou 195 universitários (68,7% do sexo feminino; 44,6% com idade entre 21 a 25 anos; 65,8% matriculados em ciências da saúde; 24,5% matriculados do 1º ao 3º semestre). Os dados foram coletados no primeiro semestre de 2021. Coletamos medidas online usando a Perceived Stress Scale (14 itens) e o Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (19 itens). Avaliamos as pontuações das dimensões de estresse positivo e negativo como resultados (representando a percepção de auto eficácia e desamparo). Turnos, horário, número de aulas matriculadas e horas de estudo por dia; e, o tempo habitual de sono (horas por noite) e rotina (acordar e dormir) como exposições. Examinamos as associações usando regressão linear multinível. Resultados: No nosso estudo, não observamos relação do contexto acadêmico, e duração e rotina de sono com o domínio positivo do estresse percebido. Por outro lado, observamos que o número de turmas matriculadas (β = 0,73 [95% CI 0,20 a 1,26]) e hora de dormir (β = -0,11 [95% CI -0,17 a -0,04]) foram associados à dimensão negativa do estresse percebido. Conclusão: O número de aulas matriculadas e a hora de dormir associaram-se ao desamparo percebido, resultando em aumento do estresse percebido em estudantes universitários de regiões de baixa renda durante a pandemia de COVID-19.

 

Palavras-chave: Sono; estresse; estudantes.
AVALIAÇÃO DE IDOSOS EM ESCALA DE DEPRESSÃO GERIÁTRICA (EDG) APÓS DOSAGEM SÉRICA DE VITAMINA B12
Authors: Rodrigues Lopes Amanda Jhully , Teixeira Boaventura Isadora , Erick de Souza Parreira  , Gonçalves Batista Teixeira Bruno Gabriel , Simões Silva de Mendonça Adria Maria , Damiani de Mendonça Erminiana
Published: April 2024

A deficiência da Vitamina B12 está relacionada a distúrbios neurológicos e cognitivos, podendo ocasionar depressão, demência e declínio cognitivo. É viável estabelecer a relação de estudo da deficiência de B12 e depressão nos idosos. O estudo foi realizado com 90 idosos da UMA-TO usando a escala de depressão geriátrica reduzida e relacionada com dados da dosagem sérica de B12 colhidos anteriormente. Entre os 90 idosos avaliados 42,2% apresentaram deficiência de B12, desses 28,9%, também pontuaram com quadro de depressão leve ou severa. A possibilidade de coadjuvância da suplementação de B12 no tratamento desses idosos ganha relevância. Pois indivíduos depressivos que fazem reposição, respondem melhor ao tratamento, e indivíduos sem sintomas depressivos, quando tratados com vitamina B12, têm menor risco de depressão. Os resultados mostraram a relação de deficiência de vitamina B12 em idosos com sinais de depressão numa proporção de quase 30%, o que associa a presença da deficiência da vitamina em idosos com sintomas depressivos, não como uma relação de causa-efeito, mas, como uma relação relevante para a prática médica clínica.
Graph Stream Compression Scheme Based on Pattern Dictionary Using Provenance
Authors: Lee Hyeonbyeong , Shin Bokyoung , Choi Dojin , Lim Jongtae , Bok Kyoungsoo , Yoo Jaesoo
Published: April 2024

With recent advancements in network technology and spread of Internet, use of social network services and Internet of Things devices has flourished, leading to a continuous generation of large volumes of graph stream data, where changes, such as additions or deletions of vertices and edges occur over time. Additionally, owing to the need for efficient use of storage space and security requirements, graph stream data compression has become essential in various applications. Even though various studies on graph compression methods have been conducted, most of them do not fully reflect the dynamic characteristics of graph streams and complexity of large graphs. In this paper, we propose a compression scheme using provenance data to efficiently process and analyze large graph stream data. It obtains provenance data by analyzing graph stream data and builds a pattern dictionary based on this to perform dictionary-based compression. By improving the existing dictionary-based graph compression methods, it enables more efficient dictionary management through tracking pattern changes and evaluating their importance using provenance. Furthermore, it considers the relationships among sub-patterns using an FP-tree and performs pattern dictionary management that updates pattern scores based on time. Our experiments show that the proposed scheme outperforms existing graph compression methods in key performance metrics, such as compression rate and processing time.
The Domestic Wastewater Treatment Installation's Performance Study of Technical Aspects in Cahaya Abadi Housing, Palembang City
Authors: Bachri Jito , Handoko Chanel Tri , Jimmyanto Hendrik , Susanti Susi
Published: April 2024

The comprehensive treatment of rural water pollution was pioneered by developed countries, and many nations now have a variety of sewage treatment facilities and process technology that are suitable for their rural features. Domestic sewage is handled differently at sewage treatment facilities in cities than it is in rural areas. Its distributed drainage sites make it difficult to collect. The Indonesian government is implementing domestic wastewater treatment (DWWT) to reduce water pollution in areas without separate residential waste processing. The results of this analysis show that an extensive amount of maintenance is needed to ensure that the DWWT and its distribution system run as efficiently as possible. The Cahaya Abadi Housing in Sri Mulya Village, Sematang Borang District, Palembang City, is where the study is being carried out. DWWT Cahaya Abadi processes domestic liquid waste from household activities, although even though the facility has room for 169 dwellings, only 31 homes use it. As a result, capacity is not being used. The results of identifying the technical factors show that the use of pumps results in differences in flow discharge that affect the outcomes of the DWWT output. The extremely rapid pump that is being used has an impact on the processing process and the current detention time.
Unravelling stakeholder narratives on nature-based solutions for hydro-meteorological risk reduction
Authors: Han Sungju , Luo Anran
Published: April 2024

Despite growing scholarly consensus on the need for Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) as holistic and sustainable alternatives to traditional engineering solutions, stakeholder acceptance and implementation of NBS remain low. This study investigates stakeholder narratives on implementing nature-based solutions (NBS) for mitigating hydro-meteorological risks across five European river basin sites in Eastern and Central Europe. Utilising Q-methodology (N = 103) and narrative analysis, we identified three ideal-typical narratives: idealist, reformist, and sceptic - each providing distinct perspectives on evidence-based policy formation and NBS integration. Our results demonstrate that: 1) Idealists’ optimistic outlook risks overlooking critical engagement with implementation challenges; 2) neglecting sceptic concerns may impede NBS adoption and invite accusations of green-washing, and 3) reformists promote evidence-based approaches and transparent stakeholder engagement to bridge narrative divides. The study underscores the importance of identifying shared values, stakeholder collaboration, and a nuanced understanding of contextual factors in fostering NBS implementation.
The study contributes to a practical framework aligning NBS projects with prevailing narratives, offering guidance for navigating the complex landscape of NBS implementation. Future research should prioritize in-depth analysis of agent perspectives, place-specific influences on narratives, and the application of narrative analysis to other emerging technologies and environmental topics (e.g. circular economy), deepening our understanding of the socio-political dynamics shaping the acceptance and implementation of sustainable solutions.
New Benchmark Metal-Organic Framework for Ambient Hydrogen Storage: MOF-2087
Authors: Sujith Ravindran , P Anbumani , Radhika Sudha , Duvvuri Rohit , Azeez Asif
Published: April 2024

The poor tradeoff between gravimetric and volumetric hydrogen storage in metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) hinders their commercial use. Despite MOF-5, IRMOF-20, and PCN-610-the benchmarked MOFs- showing good tradeoffs at 77 K, maintaining them at elevated temperatures (298 K) remains challenging. To address this, we propose a bagged-random forest tree-embedded multi-objective particle swarm optimization framework that enhances this tradeoff by optimizing MOF features. Optimization yields 152 feasible feature combinations of MOFs, further matched with 733,792 existing structures. Our nearest neighbor search pinpointed 43 local best MOFs, and the multi-criteria decision-making method highlights the Zn-based MOF 2087 as the global best with enhanced tradeoff. Optimized features of MOF-2087 demonstrate well-balanced hydrogen storage capacities surpassing benchmarked MOFs, even at elevated temperatures (77 K to 298 K). Our study presents MOF-2087 as a new benchmark for enhanced hydrogen storage up to ambient temperature and also suggests an optimization-oriented accelerated screening procedure for selecting suitable MOFs for specified applications.
Microstructural studies of Stellite 6 hardfacing deposited on nickel-based superalloys subjected to long-time aging
Authors: Zhang Xiaozhou , Liu Rong , Wu Xueyao , Li Siqi , Wu Xijia , Khelfaoui Fadila
Published: April 2024

Stellite 6 hardfacing is deposited on Haynes 282 and Inconel 740H via plasma transferred arc (PTA) welding. The fabricated hardfacing specimens are subjected to different post-welding heat treatments, then aged at 760 °C, 815 °C and 871 °C for a time length ranging from 1000 to 30000 h. The microstructures of the hardfacings before and after long-time aging are investigated with SEM/EDS/XRD. It is shown that the PTA welding process causes the hardfacing microstructure deviating from Stellite 6 alloy due to dilution. With participation of other elements from the substrate material, the compositions of both solid solution and carbide/intermetallic of the Stellite 6 hardfacing are modified. In the meanwhile, Ti-rich or Ti/Nb-rich new phases are generated. Long-time aging has an impact on the microstructures of the hardfacings, but at 760 ℃, in particular, for an exposure time less than 20000 h, the microstructures of the hardfacings do not show obvious change. However, when the hardfacing specimens are aged at 815 ℃ and 871 ℃ even for an exposure time of 1000 h only, Al-rich precipitates can occur and the amount of the precipitates increase with aging time. These brittle precipitates generally have a detrimental effect on the performance of the hardfacings, because they can deteriorate the ductility of the hardfacings. With the presence of Al-rich precipitates the hardness of the hardfacings decreases.
Carbon powders transforming from waste PP materials for optimization of 8 mol% yttria-stabilized zirconia nano-powders
Authors: Sun Qiaoyang , Wen Tianpeng , Liu Tao , Yu Jingkun
Published: April 2024

The wasted disposable polypropylene medical mask is one of the common waste polypropylene materials. The waste mask is characterized by being non-biodegradable and carelessly discarded, which causes serious environmental issues and resource waste. This study aims to investigate the recycling of waste disposable polypropylene medical masks to address the environmental problem and transform them into graphite carbon powders via the carbonization coupling with the high-energy ball milling method. The recycled waste mask was applied as a carbon dispersant to prepare high-quality 8YSZ nano-powders and the obtained carbon dispersant owned smaller particle size and higher specific surface area than the commercial activated carbon powders. The as-obtained 8YSZ nano-powders were well-dispersed and nano-sized, which resulted in high relative density and ionic conductivity for the sintered 8YSZ ceramic body. These findings suggest that the proposed strategy in this study can recycle the waste disposable polypropylene medical mask to prepare graphite carbon powders as a carbon dispersant for obtaining high-quality 8YSZ nano-powders and also provide an idea for the comprehensive utilization of other waste polymer materials.
How Homogenous is a Supercolony? High-Resolution Sequencing Revels Population Genetic Structure in the Introduced Range of Tawny Crazy Ant (Nylanderia fulva (Mayr): Hymenoptera: Formicidae)
Authors: Holt Jocelyn R. , Montoya-Lerma James , Calcaterra Luis A. , Raszick Tyler J. , Medina Raul F.
Published: April 2024

Background
The tawny crazy ant (Nylanderia fulva (Mayr)) is native to South America and was first reported in the continental United States (US) in 1938. It was not until the 1990s in Florida and 2000s in Texas that this ant was considered a serious pest in the US. Tawny crazy ant (TCA) is currently considered an invasive pest in six US states. A limited number of low-density molecular markers have previously shown little genetic differentiation among Nylanderia fulva across their geographic distribution in the US.
Results
Using high-throughput sequencing we obtained high-density molecular markers, a total of 4,557 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), that provided increased resolution for detecting population genetic differences. There was genetic variation among tawny crazy ants in the US and Argentina. Additionally, there was substructure among some geographic locations in the US (i.e., Texas, Louisiana, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia, and Florida). Samples from Colombia and Perú were genetically very distant from N. fulva in Argentina and US, and thus they are likely potential cryptic species or belong to another cryptic species complex.
Conclusion
There is genetic differentiation observed between and within tawny crazy ants in Argentina and the US as well as among tawny crazy ants in the US. Locations associated with port cities in the US are most closely related to ants from Buenos Aires, Argentina. The higher levels of differentiation among other locations and Buenos Aires may be the result of the introduction of an unidentified genotype, admixture, a sample size artifact, or a combination of these factors. Although these tawny crazy ants may act as a supercolony across wide geographic scales, our results support that N. fulva is structured into genetically differentiated populations.
Effect of light-emitting diodes on the proliferation of immature endosperm derived calli of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.)
Authors: Venugopal Geethu , Muralikrishna K.S. , Padmanabhan Sugatha , Rajesh M.K.
Published: April 2024

Coconut endosperm has a unique fatty acid profile with a pre-dominance of saturated fatty acids like lauric acid and myristic acid. Manipulation of fatty acid biosynthesis pathways can be possible with in vitro multiplication of endosperm tissue in this important oil yielding perennial palm tree. In this study, influence of Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs)(blue, yellow and purple colored) was investigated on in vitro initiation and proliferation of coconut endosperm calli. Biomass accumulation, total soluble sugars, reducing sugars, free amino acids, total polyphenols and fatty acid profile were estimated from endosperm calli of Gangabondam Green Dwarf (GBGD) cultivar grown under different colored LEDs. Calli grown under dark conditions served as control. Results indicated that initiation of calli was faster under dark conditions, whereas the multiplication and proliferation was significantly high under purple LED. Production of total soluble sugars, reducing sugars, total polyphenols and fat contents were enhanced in cultures under LEDs in comparison to control. Fatty acid profiles, generated through gas chromatography (GC), indicated that medium chain saturated fatty acid content was more, while long chain saturated and unsaturated fatty acid content was less in cultures grown under LEDs compared to cultures under control conditions. It is evident from the results that coconut endosperm calli can be initially initiated under dark conditions and it has the potential to proliferate under LED conditions with significant impact on fatty acid synthesis.
Assessing the oral and suprahyoid muscles in healthy adults using muscle ultrasound to inform the swallowing process: a proof-of-concept study
Authors: Kelly Eileen , Nazeer Saira , Fazzini Brigitta , Sutt Anna-Liisa , Olusanya Segun , Campion Thomas , Puthucheary Zudin
Published: April 2024

Introduction
: The oral and suprahyoid muscles are responsible for movements of swallowing. Our study aimed to determine the reproducibility of static and dynamic measurements of these muscles using bedside ultrasound equipment.
Methods
Forty healthy participants were recruited prospectively. Primary outcomes were evaluation of reliability for mass measurements of the anterior bellies of the digastric, mylohyoid, geniohyoid and tongue in B-mode ultrasound. Secondary outcomes were evaluation of geniohyoid muscle layer thickness and function using M-mode.
Results
Muscle mass measurements demonstrated little within-subject variability. Coefficient of Variance (CoV) across muscles were: anterior belly digastric (5.0%), mylohyoid (8.7%, geniohyoid (5.0%) and tongue (3.2%). A relationship between sex (r2 = 0.131 p = 0.022) was demonstrated for the geniohyoid muscle, with males having higher transverse Cross Sectional Area (CSA) (14.3 ± 3.6mm vs 11.9 ± 2.5mm, p = 0.002). Tongue size was correlated with weight (r2 = 0.356, p = 0.001), height (r2 = 0.156, p0.012) and sex (r2 = 0.196, p = 0.004). Resting thickness of the geniohyoid muscle layer changed with increasing bolus sizes (f = 3.898, p = 0.026). Velocity increased with bolus size (p = < 0.001, F = 8.974). However swallow time and slope distance did not, potentially influenced by higher coefficients of variation.
Conclusion
Oral and suprahyoid muscle mass are easily assessed using bedside ultrasound. Ultrasound may provide new information about muscle mass and function during swallowing.
Enhancing Computer Image Recognition with Improved Image Algorithms
Authors: Huang Lanqing , Yao Cheng , Zhang Lingyan , Luo Shijian , Ying Fangtian , Ying Weiqiang
Published: April 2024

Advances in computer image recognition have significantly impacted many industries, including healthcare, security and autonomous systems. This paper aims to explore the potential of improving image algorithms to enhance computer image recognition. Specifically, we will focus on regression methods as a means to improve the accuracy and efficiency of identifying images. In this study, we will analyze various regression techniques and their applications in computer image recognition, as well as the resulting performance improvements through detailed examples and data analysis. This paper deals with the problems related to visual image processing in outdoor unstructured environment. Finally, the heterogeneous patterns are converted into the same pattern, and the heterogeneous patterns are extracted from the fusion features of data modes. The simulation results show that the perception ability and recognition ability of outdoor image recognition in complex environment are improved.
Morphological traits of the eyes of Lepidoptera indicate selection for binocular vision in both diurnal butterflies and nocturnal moths
Authors: Chan Wei-Ping , Angier Katherine , Dankowicz Even , Elson Caroline , Frigyik Ella , Greiner Jenn , Just Josefine , Edwards Jerome , Zoll Rachel , Dendy Sarah , Hoki Evan , Ashe Sorcha , Chang Chang-Yu , Wu Shipher , Pierce Naomi
Published: April 2024

This study provides a heuristic model linking gross morphological features of compound eyes in butterflies and moths and potential visual functions related to detectability, resolution and stereopsis. This framework, combined with empirical data from 2,730 specimens representing 224 species widely sampled across a tribal level phylogeny of butterflies and a recent genomic sampling of moths, supports the hypothesis that advantages of binocular vision select for morphological architecture enhancing detectability in nocturnal species and stereopsis in diurnal species. While these results are not entirely surprising given the different light environments that these species inhabit, our analysis also uncovered a strong correlation between eye size and interocular distance, particularly in diurnal Lepidoptera. In general, males have eyes that are more ventral facing than those of females, although this effect is more pronounced in some groups than others. Diurnal butterflies exhibit a striking phylogenetic pattern in the distribution of dorsal- and ventral-facing eyes that deserves additional research.
Xinanjiang-based interval forecasting model for daily streamflow considering climate change impacts
Authors: Ke Hao , Wang Wenzhuo , Dong Zengchuan , Jia Benyou , Zheng Ziqin , Wu Shujun
Published: April 2024

One indication of the impacts of climate change on the water cycle is growing streamflow uncertainty, which is especially evident in high and cold regions. An interval forecasting model is established, which couples a snowmelt module and an uncertainty module, based on the Xinanjiang model. The model can consider the climate change impacts by quantifying the streamflow variations in the form of interval forecasts. The model’s performance was assessed by applying it in the headwater region of the Yellow River Basin. Interval forecasts and uncertainty analyses were conducted. Results show that the model can accurately describe the daily streamflow process in the study area. Unlike the deterministic forecasting model, the interval forecasting model effectively addresses shortcomings in forecasting high-flow scenarios. Furthermore, outcomes from the uncertainty analysis indicate that the model parameter K (the ratio of potential evapotranspiration to pan evaporation) plays a crucial role in water balance computations; the model parameter B (exponent of distribution of soil tension water capacity curve) exhibits sensitivity, suggesting challenges in attaining complete soil saturation across the entire basin. In addition, the insensitivity of the snowmelt module parameters implies that the proportion of snowmelt streamflow is relatively low in the annual streamflow and remains stable. The study results can provide theoretical references for water resource planning and reservoir regulation in the Yellow River Basin.
Diagnosis and Management of Subacute Sternoclavicular Osteomyelitis and Septic Arthritis Secondary to Escherichia coli Infection
Authors: NKIE Veronica Epah , Hewitt William David
Published: April 2024

Sternoclavicular Joint (SCJ) Osteomyelitis is a rare condition that can arise from a number of causes including trauma, infection via direct inoculation or hematogenous seeding. It is commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus, and infrequently by other bacteria. Only cases of E. coli osteomyelitis have been reported in the literature. Patients with risk factors such as Diabetes, smoking history, and intravenous drug use are particularly susceptible. When infection seeds the joint space, septic arthritis can occur concurrently. Acute and subacute presentations of SCJ osteomyelitis and septic arthritis have been documented, with treatment modalities ranging from conservative treatment to surgical management. We describe a patient with an interesting case of SCJ Osteomyelitis with concurrent Septic Arthritis secondary to trauma to the area from a fall. We detail the patient’s presentation, hospital admission and course of treatment. We delve into her pre-existing conditions and comorbidities and outline the many challenges we faced in managing the patient from onset of presentation into recovery. We also perform a literature review of previously reported cases of SCJ Osteomyelitis. We determine that less than 350 cases have been identified and described in the literature, and we outline examples of some of these while comparing and contrasting pertinent aspects of some of these cases with our patient’s presentation and hospital course. SCJ Osteomyelitis and Septic Arthritis is a rare condition that warrants prompt identification and management to prevent destruction of bone and joint, bacteremia and sepsis, or other debilitating complications. A multidisciplinary approach must be therefore undertaken in caring for patients with existing comorbidities and/or risk factors. This includes expeditious testing and identification of causative organisms, administration of appropriate antibiotics and antipyretics as needed, and swift determination of patients' need for surgery to curtail the spread of infection and restore bone and joint health.
Bibliometric Top Ten Healthcare-Related ChatGPT Publications in the First ChatGPT Anniversary
Authors: Sallam Malik
Published: April 2024

Bibliometric analysis is a useful tool to assess influential publications on ChatGPT utility in healthcare, an emerging research topic. The aim of this study was to identify the top ten cited healthcare-related ChatGPT publications. The study employed an advanced search on three databases: Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify ChatGPT-related records in healthcare education, research, and practice by 30 November 2023. Ranking was based on the retrieved citation count in each database. The alternative metrics evaluated included PlumX metrics and Altmetric Attention Scores (AASs). A total of 22 unique records were identified in the three databases. Only two publications were found in the top 10 list across the three databases. The range of citation count varied per database with the highest range identified in Google Scholar (1019–121) followed by Scopus (242–88), and Web of Science (171–23). Google Scholar citations were correlated significantly with and the following metrics: Semantic Scholar highly influential citations (Spearman’s correlation coefficient (ρ) = .840, P < .001), PlumX captures (ρ = .831, P < .001), PlumX mentions (ρ = .609, P = .004), and AASs (ρ = .542, P = .009). Despite the several acknowledged limitations, bibliometric analysis in this study showed the evolving landscape of ChatGPT utility in healthcare. There is an urgent need for collaborative initiatives by all stakeholders involved to establish guidelines for ethical, transparent, and responsible use of ChatGPT in healthcare. The study revealed the correlation between citations and alternative metrics highlighting its usefulness as a supplement to gauge publication impact even in a rapidly growing research field.
Developing Superior Amoxicillin Delivery Systems: AI-Driven Optimization of LNPs for H. pylori Treatment
Authors: Kajal Kumari , SAMPATH MUTHU KUMAR , Singh Hare Ram
Published: April 2024

The development of nano delivery systems, particularly lipid nanoparticles (LNP), for both hydrophobic and hydrophilic drugs has seen significant advancements in recent years. Fine tuning LNP formulations is crucial due to the impact of various parameters on their quality of efficacy. The study investigated the influence of formulation variables on amoxicillin-loaded LNPs designed for anti-Helicobacter pylori activity. Size, polydispersity index (PDI), Zeta potential and entrapment efficiency were evaluated across diverse formulations. The impact of particle size on drug release and encapsulation was explored. Artificial intelligence AI based design of experiments generated formulations to minimize the particle size, PDI and Zeta potential while maximizing the EE, accounting for factor interactions. Additionally, the user friendliness of QbD (Quality by Design), Machine Learning (ML), and DOE were compared. Methods and results: A Box-Behnken design with 27 formulations was chosen for amoxicillin (amox) LNP optimization. Particle size distribution, zetapotential, PDI, and entrapment efficiency were measured for each formulation. LNP ranged in size from 200–600 nm, zeta potential ranged from − 5 - -40 mV, PDI from 0.1- 1 and EE from 5-100%. Characterization included DLS, FESEM, FTIR and SEM. Obtained results were statistically analysed. Discussion: This study demonstrates the potential of AI- driven DOE for optimizing LNP formulations. We explained effect of different parameters lipid concentration, surfactant concentration, sonication time and sonication speed on nanoparticles and derived formula for further prediction. The identified formulations exhibited desired antibiotic efficiency with minimum chemical usage, suggesting the effectiveness of this approach. Further research explored it as a drug with more bioavailability, stability and cheap alternative over traditional drugs in market with more side effects and less bioavailability.
UAV identification based on improved YOLOv7 under foggy condition
Authors: He Xin , Fan Kuangang , Xu Zhitao
Published: April 2024

One-stage algorithm can be effectively used in normal conditions, showing excellent performance on unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) detection. However, when facing inclement weathers, such as foggy environment, it cannot give a satisfactory outcome we crave for. At the same time, UAV, a tiny object, only contains a few pixels in images and is hided in the fog, causing object obscurity. Concerned about these premises, an improved YOLOv7 is proposed to focus on UAV detection in foggy situation. We adopt BiFormer, a novel dynamic sparse attention through bi-level routing to achieve a flexible distribution of calculation with content awareness, and CL , combined loss function for replacing original IoU metric, to overcome these challenges. At last, Content-Aware ReAssembly of Features (CARAFE) is integrated to the network, aggregating contextual information within a large receptive field. According to this task, we built a new dataset for fog detection (UAV-FG) in which objects are covered by fog, and amount of experiments on UAV-FG datasets verify the effectiveness of our design. Compared with YOLOv7, our method shows consistent and substantial gains (23.21%,14.35% improvement in mAP@0.5 and mAP@0.5:0.95, respectively) with negligible computational overhead and also satisfies the requirement of real-time detection.
Aviation Impact on Air Quality: Evidence from Countries with Highest Air Traffic
Authors: IMAMOGLU Hatice , IMANOV Tapdig
Published: April 2024

The current study aims to analyze the relationships between air transportation and carbon dioxide emissions employing the data from 20 countries in different geographical locations to discover the role of the aviation industry impacts on air quality. The analysis was performed by considering random effect (RE), fixed effect (FE) and ordinary least square (OLS) methods using panel data covering years from 1990–2014, to examine the effect of passenger and cargo transportation on environmental quality. Findings reveal that air transportation has a significantly positive effect on environmental degradation due to a rise in the consumption of fossil fuels, which contributes to an increase in the volume of carbon emissions. The result suggests focusing on new generation aircraft concepts and technologies under fuel strategy scenarios proposed by International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and International Air Transport Association (IATA). Entry to service new generation aircrafts enable use of biofuel with reduced fuel flow which is feasible in order to mitigate CO2 emission level.
JEL classification: E10; L93; Q51.
Multichannel Radiometer with Silicon Detectors for Ecological Research
Authors: Radzhapov B. S. , Mullagalieva F. G. , Nurboev K. M. , Radzhapov S. A. , Otaboev S. K. , Maripov I. I.
Published: April 2024

Development of a multichannel radiometer consisting of three radiometers based on highly sensitive silicon detectors for environmental studies, recording and studying the activities of alpha, beta and gamma radiation in various environments. Three types of detectors were manufactured for the three radiometers. In the radiometer, lithium drift detectors were used to measure the activity of gamma radiation; to measure the activity of beta particles and the volumetric activity of radon, heterojunction or surface-barrier detectors were installed in the radiometers. The structure of the device and the electrical circuit have been developed. The manufactured detectors had low losses on the “input” and “output” windows, which made it possible to carry out measurements on both sides. The structure of the device using these detectors and the developed electrical circuit of the microcontroller node and nodes for amplifying and selecting information of the microcontroller node are presented. Monitoring data for gamma and beta radiation activities and volumetric radon activity are presented. The results showed the dependence of the volumetric activity of radon on humidity. Beta radiation activity did not show any dependence on humidity, but there was a sharp increase on certain days.
Temporal integration on the dendrites of fast-spiking basket cells
Authors: Liu Ming , Sun Xiaojuan
Published: April 2024

Synaptic inputs received by neurons exhibit a wide range of temporal patterns in vivo, and illuminating how neurons integrate these patterns is critical to understanding how the brain processes information. Fast-spiking basket cells, which perform both supralinear and sublinear dendritic integration, are instrumental in the inhibition control in the hippocampus, while their responses and mechanisms underlying different temporal input patterns remain unclear. To address this question, we perform distinguishable temporal simulation protocols on a detailed compartmental model of basket cells. When synaptic inputs arrive dispersed in space, we find the nonlinearity of neural response declines when inputs are more asynchronous, independent of the backpropagation action potentials. Supralinear dendrites and dendritic potassium channels dominate this phenomenon. Furthermore, the number of action potentials shows that the neuron responds more effectively to asynchronous inputs, owing to the effective barrier of single dendrite to attenuation. These results may provide insight into the temporal coding of fast-spiking basket cells in neuronal oscillation.
Comparative Analysis of Adverse Events Linked to PEG-rhG-CSF and rhG-CSF in Real-World Settings: Disproportionate Examination of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) Database
Authors: Qu Ying , Zuo Li’an , Zhang Shuting , Chen Rong
Published: April 2024

Granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (G-CSF) is widely acknowledged for its efficacy in managing chemotherapy-induced neutropenia (CIN) and febrile neutropenia (FN), albeit accompanied by a spectrum of potential adverse effects. This study conducted a comprehensive analysis utilizing real-world data sourced from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database, spanning the years 2004 to 2023, to assess and compare adverse events (AEs) associated with recombinant human G-CSF (rhG-CSF) and its polyethylene glycol-modified form (PEG-rhG-CSF). The analysis revealed a significant increase in the incidence of AEs, with PEG-rhG-CSF implicated in 76,155 cases and rhG-CSF in 10,953 cases. A gender-based disparity was evident, with female patients experiencing a higher incidence of AEs compared to male patients. Specifically, the incidence rates for PEG-rhG-CSF and rhG-CSF in females were 54.2% and 46.1%, respectively, versus 27.1% and 34.7% in males. Bone pain emerged as the most prevalent AE, with PEG-rhG-CSF and rhG-CSF accounting for 2,473 and 581 cases, respectively. Reporting odds ratio (ROR) analysis indicated a higher incidence of bone pain with PEG-rhG-CSF compared to rhG-CSF, with an ROR of 1.17 (95% CI: 1.07-1.29). Furthermore, the study highlighted significant differences in the time to onset of AEs between the two treatments. The median time to onset of AEs was 3 days (IQR: 1-9; p<0.05) for PEG-rhG-CSF, in contrast to 9 days (IQR: 2-42) for rhG-CSF. Notably, the emergence of splenomegaly, capillary leak syndrome, interstitial lung disease, and lung infiltration exhibited delayed intervals, underscoring the imperative for meticulous patient follow-up, particularly given the potential for patient discharge prior to the manifestation of these delayed AEs. Further assessment of real-world data is warranted.
STAMBPL1 promotes triple-negative breast cancer angiogenesis by upregulating the transcription of GRHL3/HIF1α/VEGFA via FOXO1
Authors: Chen Ceshi , Fang Huan , Liang Huichun , Yang Chuanyu , Jiang Dewei , Luo Qianmei , Cao Wen-Ming , Zhang Huifeng
Published: April 2024

Anti-angiogenesis is a crucial therapeutic strategy for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), but the current targeted drugs are insufficient to meet clinical requirements. Our study has discovered that silencing the deubiquitinating enzyme STAMBPL1 can effectively inhibit the growth and angiogenesis of TNBC xenografts in nude mice. STAMBPL1 promotes the expression of HIF1α/VEGFA in TNBC through a non-enzymatic-dependent mechanism. STAMBPL1 interacts with the transcription factor FOXO1, which binds to the promoter of the GRHL3 gene, thereby positively regulating its transcription. Subsequently, GRHL3 binds to the HIF1α gene promoter to promote its transcription and angiogenesis. Moreover, we have demonstrated that the combination of FOXO1 inhibitor AS1842856 and VEGFR inhibitor Apatinib significantly inhibited the growth of transplanted tumors in nude mice. These findings indicate that the STAMBPL1/FOXO1/GRHL3/HIF1α/VEGFA axis provides potential therapeutic targets in TNBC.
Cardiotoxicity of Cadmium and Its Effects on Heart Efficiency During Early and Late Chick Embryogenesis
Authors: Ali Reda A. , Awadalla Eatemad A. , Hamed Amal S. , Mostafa Dalia Elzahraa F.
Published: April 2024

A dangerous heavy metal that is non-degradable in the environment is cadmium (Cd). Many organs can accumulate cadmium, and adversely affect organ function and health. Cd is considered as a teratogenic and embryotoxic agent. This study aims to evaluate the teratogenicity of cadmium at concentrations lesser than the permissible and its effects on the heart during chick embryogenesis. Fertilized eggs of the chick Gallus domesticus were divided into; control, saline injected and four experimental groups injected with single doses of 5, 25, 50 or 75 µM of CdCl2. Histological observations of the heart before hatching and the cardiomyocytes after hatching were recorded. Morphometric measurements of heart chambers were achieved at 3, 4 and 6 days of incubation. Electrocardiograph and respiratory rate were recorded at tenth day. Different cardiac problems had been brought on by Cd. In comparison to controls, the heart looked to be much larger, and in certain cases, growth retardation was seen. Degeneration in heart walls and malformations of dorsal aorta were noticed. Morphomertrically, the width and wall thickness of heart chambers showed significant fluctuations between increase and decrease. Heart beats and respiratory rate significantly decreased compared to control. One of Cd toxicity is its ability to induce cellular oxidative stress. The heart in particular is very sensitive to oxidative stress. Cardiac oxidative stress might intensify heart failure and promote disease progression. Calcium is one of the components that needed for normal heart work. Cd might interfere with calcium metabolism by removing it from the body.
Chitosan-based pH responsive hemostatic hydrogel loaded with cattail pollen
Authors: Yang Xue , Zhang Hua , Liu Wenjing , Cong He , Yang Lifei
Published: April 2024

Bleeding problem caused by skin injury is one of the most common traumatic external injuries in daily life. Hydrogel wound dressing can effectively attenuate the stimulation of the external environment on the wound and prevent microbial infection due to its unique structure and mechanical properties. However, the hemostatic effect on hemorrhagic trauma is poor. In this paper, natural chitosan and sodium alginate are used to prepare a double network cross-linked hydrogel, and the natural drug cattail pollen, which has a hemostatic effect, is added in order to improve the hemostatic effect of the hydrogel. The experimental results show that the chitosan/sodium alginate/cattail pollen double network hydrogel has better adhesion and anti-stretching ability. At the same time, the flavonoids in cattail pollen can effectively inhibit platelet aggregation, and the hemostatic time is only 41.6% of the Commercial gauze, showing a good hemostatic performance and has good blood compatibility and in vitro coagulation effect, which provides a new idea for the application of hydrogel in the field of antibacterial hemostasis.