bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and vascular features of the retina and choroid with retinitis pigmentosa imaged using ultra- widefield swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Zhao Hong-chao , Yang Shi-shi , Yang Hong , Zhang Ya-juan , Shi Mei-yu
Published: August 2024

Purpose: Information from optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) on the pathogenesis of retinitis pigmentosa (RP) is limited to the posterior pole; however, pathological changes begin at the peripheral pole. Therefore, we imaged eyes diagnosed with RP using ultra-widefield swept-source (UWF SS)-OCTA.
Methods: We retrospectively analyzed patients with RP and age-matched controls who underwent fovea-centered UWF SS-OCTA imaging.
Results: We examined 63 RP eyes and 40 healthy eyes. RP eyes had thinner outer retinal and choroidal thicknesses (p≤0.01), greater inner retinal thickness and retinal nerve fiber layer (p<0.01), decreased superficial capillary plexus (SCP) area throughout the retina, and larger foveal avascular zone area (p<0.01) than healthy eyes. SCP microvessel density, deep capillary plexus, and choroidal capillary plexus were markedly decreased in RP eyes (p<0.01). SCP area and density were positively correlated at a diameter of 6 mm and SCP vessel density and inner retinal thickness were strongly negatively correlated at a diameter of 3 mm (p=0.01). Further, outer retinal thickness was significantly correlated with choroidal thickness (p<0.05).
Conclusion: UWF-SS-OCTA, enabling the visualization of the peripheral fundus area, is useful in quantifying structural and vascular parameters of the central and peripheral retinal and choroidal layers in RP eyes, and can aid in elucidating the pathophysiology and monitoring disease progression.
The criticality of cocoa- how environmental intelligence and open data can avert the current crisis and establish greater resilience in cocoa supply chains
Authors: Martindale W. , Alifa Nicholas
Published: August 2024

This research investigates cocoa (Thebroma cacao) supply from the global primary producers. The research examines long-term precipitation and vegetation index data to understand the reasons for change in production that have impacted the global supply of cocoa. This analysis aims to inform strategic decisions for countries like the UK, which relies on the supply of many sub-tropical and tropical crop products. The need for climate-smart production in Côte d'Ivoire is a priority for confectionery and chocolate manufacturers in the UK. The research reported uses long-term precipitation and vegetation index data to assess why and how production changes have changed global supply and highlights that the initial impacts of climate change for food supply may well be seen first for luxury products such as chocolate. These are products that are supplied for the value of taste and food experience. The global food system depends on these ingredients from tropical and subtropical regions, where environmental degradation is being acutely impacted by climate change, political disruption, and financial pressures placed on producers. This research highlights these products needing climate-smart farming to improve resilience in response to climate change.
Perceived changes in health behaviours and body weight in response to a cancer diagnosis among individuals living with and beyond breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Castillo Francisco Brenes , Goodman William , Lally Phillippa , Fisher Abigail , Beeken Rebecca J
Published: August 2024

Purpose
This study explored perceived changes in health behaviours and body weight following a cancer diagnosis and investigated related sociodemographic and clinical characteristics.
Methods
Individuals living with and beyond breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer (N = 5835) completed the ‘Health and Lifestyle After Cancer Survey’ which explored their perceptions of health behaviour change following a cancer diagnosis. Multinomial logistic regressions were conducted with perceived changes as dependent variables, and sociodemographic and clinical characteristics as independent variables.
Results
Approximately half of the participants did not perceive changes in their physical activity, alcohol intake and body weight, and most did not perceive dietary changes. Less than a third of individuals perceived positive health behaviour changes (11.7% increased physical activity, 24.3% healthier diet, and 31.3% decreased alcohol intake), 35.9% perceived decreases in physical activity, and 27.0% perceived increases in body weight, whereas 19.2% perceived decreases in body weight. Individuals from specific groups (e.g., no education and unmarried), and with poorer self-rated health (e.g., with anxiety/depression), were more likely to perceive changes in physical activity, body weight, and diet, but in different directions. Younger individuals were more likely to perceive increases in physical activity, body weight, and alcohol intake, and have a healthier diet.
Conclusion
Following a diagnosis of cancer, a large proportion of individuals perceived that their health behaviours were unchanged. However, some groups of individuals were more likely to perceive positive changes, whereas others were more likely to perceive negative changes, with differences also observed according to the type of health behaviour. Clinicians should consider targeting health behaviour support to prevent worse outcomes in the long-term.
Early growth response factor 1 promotes HCC progression by activating the MAPK/ERK pathway through transcriptional upregulation of PAR1
Authors: Bi Jian-gang , Li Qi , Guo Yu-sheng , Tang Hong-gui , Xu Ping
Published: August 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world. The prognosis of HCC patients who undergo surgical resection is still poor. Therefore, it is urgent to clarify the potential mechanism of HCC progression. This article reports the important role of the transcription factor early growth response 1 (Egr1) in promoting HCC progression. First, Egr1 expression was abnormally elevated in clinical HCC samples and enhanced the proliferation, invasion and migration of cancer cells. Moreover, we found that the mRNA expression levels of protease-activated receptor 1 (PAR1) and Egr1 in clinical specimens were positively correlated. Dual luciferase reporter gene assays verified that Egr1 is an upstream transcriptional regulator of PAR1, that enhances the proliferation, invasion and migration of cancer cells by upregulating PAR1. Mechanistically, we found that Egr1 activates the mitogen-activated protein kinase/extracellular signal-regulated kinase (MAPK/ERK) pathway through PAR1. Finally, we demonstrated that thrombin does not affect the regulatory effect of Egr1 on PAR1 in HCC cells. In conclusion, Egr1 promotes HCC progression by upregulating PAR1 to activate the MAPK/ERK pathway.
Comprehensive Analysis of Surgical Strategies and Prognosis for Non- Small Cell Lung Cancer with Pleural Metastasis Detected Intraoperatively
Authors: Meng Fanmao , Ren Na , Zhang Guochao , Xu Ruifeng , Tian Mengbai , Sun Xin , Zhao Liang
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives: Lung cancer is one of the prevailing malignancies worldwide. Surgical interventions hold an important position in the treatment framework for lung cancer. Pleural metastasis is often assumed to be a surgical contraindication, but not all instances of pleural metastasis can be accurately identified before surgery. The question of how to address pleural metastasis detected intraoperatively is still undecided.
Methods: This retrospective study included 187 lung cancer patients who underwent surgery from 2005 to 2017 in whom pleural metastasis was discovered incidentally during the operation. Data on demographic, surgical, pathological, postoperative treatment, and survival information were collected for further analysis.
Results: For patients with intraoperatively detected pleural metastasis, two independent protective prognostic factors were receiving primary tumor resection (compared to only receiving pleural nodule biopsy, HR=0.079, p=0.022) and receiving postoperative adjuvant chemotherapy (HR=0.081, p<0.001). Simultaneously, performing systematic lymph node dissection during primary tumor resection was found to be detrimental to long-term prognosis (HR=2.375, p=0.044). However, the resection of pleural metastatic lesions did not significantly impact patient prognosis.
Conclusion: Our study supports the implementation of major tumor resection in patients with pleural metastasis detected intraoperatively but not lymph node dissection or the resection of pleural metastatic lesions. Postoperative chemotherapy is also necessary.
Impact of a Model Physiotherapy Centre on The Quality of Life Of Disabled Children from UBA Adopted Villages by Reducing Caregiver Burden: Developing A Model
Authors: Kanniappan Vadivelan , Muthuperumal Prakash , Venkataraman P , Veeragoudhaman T S , Chinnasami Balaji , Muthiah Manikumar , R Abishek J , M Manju Bashini , S Shrisruthi , N Ashok
Published: August 2024

Background
Approximately 1 in 8 children under the age of 6 in Tamil Nadu are diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDD), yet only a fraction of these children receives proper medical care. The unequal distribution of healthcare services is mainly due to the lack of accessibility, especially in rural areas, leading to a significant burden on caregivers. This research aims to alleviate caregiver burden and reduce disability in preschool children by establishing model clinics or specialized outreach centers in rural villages, supported by SRM Institute of Science and Technology under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan Scheme.
Methods
The study will commence with screening all preschool children registered in Anganwadi in the designated villages. Tailored model clinics will be set up in these villages based on the prevalence of NDD. Once established, children diagnosed with NDD will undergo rehabilitation for a year. Baseline and endline assessments will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of the model center on both the child's disability and the caregiver burden.
Discussion
This research will demonstrate the effectiveness of a model outreach center in rural villages in reducing disability levels in children and alleviating caregiver burden by eliminating the need for long travels to access rehabilitation services. The findings of this study will not only contribute to the objectives of UBA-SRMIST in uplifting villages but also facilitate the creation of registries and provision of data to the government for the implementation of policies that address the current disparities in healthcare access.
Trial registration:
Trail has been prospectively registered under Clinical Trials Registry – India on 19th June 2024 (CTRI/2024/06/069196)
Enhancing Hard Turning performance on AISI 02 Steel with CuO Nano Cutting Fluids
Authors: Bacha Mohamed , ELBAH Mohamed , Laouici Hamdi , Yallese Mohamed Athmane , Hacene Sassi
Published: August 2024

This research investigates the machinability of AISI 02 tool steel under various lubrication conditions, focusing on the application of Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) and an innovative Cupric oxide (CuO)-based nanofluid. A temperature and tool wear investigation were undertaken for machining environment. A comprehensive experimental setup, utilizing L36 Taguchi-based orthogonal arrays to conduct trials under dry, MQL, and NMQL (Nanofluid MQL) conditions. The study meticulously examines the impact of four principal machining parameters: cutting speed, feed rate, environment, and cutting depth on critical outcomes such as surface roughness, cutting force, and power consumption. Employing Response Surface Methodology (RSM), the research delineates the optimal machining conditions that enhance these parameters. Notably, the feed rate was found to significantly affect surface roughness, while both cutting depth and feed rate were instrumental in determining cutting force and power consumption. The use of Cu nanofluid with MQL substantially enhanced machining performance. The paper culminates with an exploration of cutting condition optimization through the Desirability Function (DF) and the multi objectives Manta Ray Foraging Optimizer (MOMRFO), aiming to minimize surface roughness (Ra), cutting force (Ft), and power consumption (Pc). The results indicate that both DF and MOMRFO yield highly effective optimal settings, offering substantial contributions to the domain of hard machining.
Controlling mildew of tobacco leaf by Bacillus amyloliquefaciens ZH-2 and its effect on storage quality of tobacco leaf
Authors: Zhou Hang , Yang Yongfeng , Jia Tao , Yu Yangyang , Chen Siyuan , Qiu Yao , Zhang Ruina , Chen Hongli
Published: August 2024

Tobacco mildew is a common fungal disease that reduces tobacco quality, resulting in serious economic losses in the tobacco industry. In this study, the pathogens Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, and Rhizopus arrhizus were isolated from infected leaves. Furthermore, five Bacillus sp. strains isolated from healthy tobacco leaves were found to possess strong antifungal activity against these pathogens. Among these strains, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens ZH-2 exerted the strongest antagonistic effect against all mildew types (bacteriosphere diameter > 22 mm). The antagonistic action of ZH-2 was further observed using scanning electron microscopy, which revealed signs of contraction, deformation, and dissolution of the treated mycelia compared with that seen in the control group. The ZH-2 strain was found to produce high levels of proteases, chitinases, and β-1,3-glucanase, contributing to its antifungal activity via fungal cell wall rupture. The antifungal activity of ZH-2 was also demonstrated in the application test, as indicated by the significant reduction in mildew disease severity in tobacco leaves treated with this strain. Fermentation tests showed that the quality of ZH-2–treated, solid-state fermented tobacco leaves was superior to that of the control. Specifically, the alkaloid content significantly decreased by 10.62%, whereas the total and reduced sugar contents increased by 12.9 and 55.75%, respectively. Furthermore, macromolecular starch, cellulose, and protein contents significantly decreased by 25.85, 12.77, and 10.04%, respectively. These results indicate that the Bacillus amyloliquefaciens ZH-2 strain is effective against tobacco mildew and can improve tobacco quality upon solid-state fermentation.
Enhancing Anti-Cancer Immune Response by Acidosis-sensitive Nanobody Display
Authors: Knepper Leah E. , Ankrom Emily T. , Thévenin Damien
Published: August 2024

One of the main challenges with many cancer immuno-therapies is that they depend on biomarkers for targeting. These biomarkers are often associated with tumors but are not specific to a particular tumor, which can lead to damage in healthy tissues, resistance to treatment, and the need for customization for different types of cancer due to the variations in targets. A promising alternative approach is to target the acidic microenvironment found in most solid tumor types. This can be achieved using the pH (Low) Insertion Peptide (pHLIP), which inserts selectively into cell membranes in acidic conditions, sparing healthy tissues. pHLIP has shown potential for imaging, drug delivery, and surface display. For instance, we previously used pHLIP to display epitopes on the surfaces of cancer cells, enabling antibody-mediated immune cell recruitment and selective killing of cancer cells. In this study, we further this concept by directly fusing an anti-CD16 nanobody, which activates Natural Killer (NK) cells, to pHLIP, eliminating the need for antibody recruitment. Our results demonstrate pH-sensitive insertion into cancer cells, activation of the CD16 receptor on effector cells, and successful targeting and destruction of cancer cells by high-affinity CD16+ NK cells in two cancer cell lines.
GBM-QTMT: Gradient Boosting Machine-based fast QTMT partition decision for VVC inter-coding
Authors: Bakkouri Siham , Bakkouri Ibtissam , Elyousfi Abderrahmane
Published: August 2024

Versatile Video Coding (VVC) is the next-generation video coding standard. VVC proposes a new partitioning block structure called Quadtree with Nested Multi-Type Tree (QTMT) that introduces a more flexible partition shape using a quadtree (QT) and a nested multi-type tree (MTT) splitting compared to the previous splitting algorithms, namely Quadtree plus Binary Tree (QTBT) and QT structures adopted in High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC). QTMT significantly improves coding efficiency, but it brings considerable computational complexity, which limits VVC's practical applications. To efficiently address this problem of redundant processing in QTMT structures in inter-mode prediction, this paper proposes a fast QTMT inter-partitioning algorithm based on gradient boosting machines (GBM). The proposed algorithm is divided into three steps. In the first step, the average local variance (ALV) is extracted from each coding unit (CU) to determine their homogeneity. Then, a classification-based gradient boosting machine (GBM) is employed to analyze and build a binary classification model from the extracted ALV features. The GBM model is employed to extract and efficiently obtain suitable thresholds for each QT CU size and a threshold between QT and MTT modes. In the last step, a fast QTMT partition decision algorithm is performed based on the extracted thresholds. The experimental results show that the proposed algorithm reduces a significant amount of encoding time, while the loss in coding efficiency is negligible.
Optimization Study of Emergency Logistics Operations Based on Colored Petri Nets
Authors: Lei Yihu , Mu Haibo
Published: August 2024

Emergency logistics transportation plays a crucial role in China's logistics system. We addresses inefficiencies and complexities in the emergency logistics transportation process under air-rail intermodal transport using Colored Petri Nets (CPN) theory. We perform hierarchical modeling based on actual emergency logistics activities and CPN theory. Using CPN IDE simulation software, we set monitors for transitions in the model and conduct simulations to determine the running time and transition occupancy rates for each process stage. By analyzing transition occupancy rates, we identify inefficient stages in the emergency logistics process and propose optimization solutions, constructing an optimized CPN model for emergency logistics transportation. The average time for the original emergency logistics process is 4256.325 minutes, while the optimized process averages 3292.475 minutes, a decrease of 22.65%. The experimental results show a significant reduction in overall process time, demonstrating that CPN theory and the optimization are feasible for improving emergency logistics transportation efficiency.
Development of a New Tool to Simultaneously Measure Soil Permeability and CO2 Concentration as Important Parameters for Geogenic Radon Potential Assessment
Authors: Janik Miroslaw , Gomez Christopher , Kodaira Satoshi , Grzadziel Dominik
Published: August 2024

This study assessed the geogenic radon potential using PECAME, an innovative tool designed to simultaneously measure soil permeability and CO2 concentration -- two key parameters for understanding radon transport in soil. Comparative field studies using the RADON-JOK device in various geological settings in Japan and Poland demonstrate the effectiveness of PECAME. These studies reveal a strong correlation between PECAME and RADON-JOK, with an R2 value of 0.87. Since the soil radon concentration and permeability were measured simultaneously, the geogenic radon potential was calculated. Most measured points fall within the low to medium radon index zones, with two exceptions near active faults located in the high zone. Therefore, permeability and CO2 measurements using PECAME may facilitate further research in Japan to develop a comprehensive geogenic radon potential map.
Coal–gangue sound recognition using hybrid multi–branch CNN based on attention mechanism fusion in noisy environments
Authors: Song Qingjun , Hao Wenchao , Song Qinghui , Jiang Haiyan , Li Kai , Sun Shirong
Published: August 2024

The coal–gangue recognition technology plays an important role in the intelligent realization of fully mechanized caving face and the improvement of coal quality. Although great progress has been made for the coal–gangue recognition in recent years, most of them have not taken into account the impact of the complex environment of top coal caving on recognition performance. Herein, a hybrid multi–branch convolutional neural network (HMBCNN) is proposed for coal–gangue recognition, which based on improved Mel Frequency Cepstral Coefficients (MFCC) as well as Mel spectrogram, and attention mechanism. Firstly, the MFCC and its smooth feature matrix are input into each branch of one–dimensional multi–branch convolutional neural network, and the spliced features are extracted adaptively through multi–head attention mechanism. Secondly, the Mel spectrogram and its first–order derivative are input into each branch of the two–dimensional multi–branch convolutional neural network respectively, and the effective time–frequency information is paid attention to through the soft attention mechanism. Finally, at the decision–making level, the two networks are fused to establish a model for feature fusion and classification, obtaining optimal fusion strategies for different features and networks. A database of sound pressure signals under different signal–to–noise ratios and equipment operations is constructed based on a large amount of data collected in the laboratory and on–site. Comparative experiments and discussions are conducted on this database with advanced algorithms and different neural network structures. The results show that the proposed method achieves higher recognition accuracy and better robustness in noisy environments.
An Inclusive agri-food systems transformation pathway for India
Authors: Singh Vartika , Das Prantika , Stevanovic Miodrag , Jha Chandan , Bodirsky Benjamin , Beier Felicitas , Humpenöder Florian , Leip Debbora , Chen David , Crawford Michael , von Jeetze Patrick , Bacca Edna Molina , Soergel Bjoern , Springmann Marco , Dietrich Jan , Popp Alexander , Ghosh Ranjan Kumar , Lotze-Campen Hermann
Published: August 2024

Although India has transformed from a food scarce to a food self-sufficient nation, the challenges of nutrition security, regional inequalities, and unsustainable agricultural practices persist. Existing policies lack an integrated vision for and implementation of holistic food system changes. This study undertakes a food system assessment for India using a global food system modelling framework, evaluating 23 food system measures on 14 indicators across dimensions of health, environment, inclusion, and economy. The food system measures include healthy diets, biosphere protection, agriculture management, equitable livelihood, and external reforms. Results indicate that 13 out of 14 indicators including nutrition and environmental outcomes improve due to synergistic effects driven by coordinated interventions, reducing trade-offs among the four dimensions of the food system. While progress is observed in most health and environmental indicators, challenges such as rising obesity and nitrogen pollution persist. Our attempt to quantify the dynamics of India’s food system under different scenarios enables understanding the trade-offs across dimensions. The comprehensive and forward-looking food system outcomes that this study elucidates aid in the identification of pivotal intervention points and facilitate strategizing policies for transformative changes.
Echo State Networks for modeling turbulent convection
Authors: Ghazijahani Mohammad Sharifi , Cierpka Christian
Published: August 2024

Turbulent Rayleigh-Bénard convection (RBC) is one of the very prominent examples of chaos in fluid dynamics with significant relevance in nature. Meanwhile, Echo State Networks (ESN) are among the most fundamental machine learning algorithms suited for modeling sequential data. The current study conducts reduced order modeling of the experimental RBC. The ESN successfully models the flow qualitatively. Even for this highly turbulent flow, it is challenging to distinguish predictions from the ground truth. The statistical convergence of the ESN goes beyond the velocity values and is represented in secondary aspects of the flow dynamics, such as spatial and temporal derivatives and vortices. Finally, ESN’s main hyperparameters show values for best performance in strong relation to the flow dynamics. These findings from both the fluid dynamics and computer science perspective set the ground for future informed design of ESNs to tackle one of the most challenging problems in nature: turbulence.
Modeling and Control of Quasi-Z-Source Interleaved Boost DC-DC Converter
Authors: Rashid Reza , Baghramian Alfred , Mojallali Hamed
Published: August 2024

In this article, the modeling and control of the Quasi-Z-Source Interleaved Boost Converter (QZIBC) that can be used in fuel cell vehicles is presented. We have already presented the QZIBC and in order to complete our research and design a suitable controller for it, we started modeling and preliminary investigation of the closed loop response of this converter. For this, first the state matrices of the small signal model of the converter are obtained by using the state space averaging method and then the transfer functions of the output voltage to input voltage and the output voltage to duty cycle (controlling input) are obtained using the Leverrier’s method, which is used to calculation of the transfer functions of high-order converters. The QZIB converter is modeled with the operation point characteristics of 120 W output power, 12 V input voltage, 60 V output voltage and 0.4 duty cycle and its open-loop and closed-loop responses have been evaluated. Also, the closed loop control of this converter has been done using a PI controller which shows very good performance in transient and steady state modes.
Particleboard Surface Optimization for High Quality Laminating with Decor Paper
Authors: Kursun Coskun , Onat Saadettin Murat , Kelleci Orhan , Köksal Süheyla Esin
Published: August 2024

In this study, it was aimed to determine optimum wood content in the particleboard (PB). This issue is important for the protection of forest resources. PBs were produced with two densities (520 and 560 kg/m3), three surface layer (SL) ratios (28%, 30%, and 32%), and two sanding end-thicknesses (17,8 mm and 18,0 mm). PBs were laminated with decor paper (DP) using a hot press (190°C, 35 kg/cm2). It was determined the optimum SL ratio, board density, and sanding tolerance with minimum wood content. Manufacturers have focused on low-density PB production, which can be achieved by consuming less wood. However, various problems occur when laminating surfaces with low-density boards. In this study, the optimal board density, thickness, and SL ratio were investigated. The GRAY multi-criteria decision-making method (MCDM) was used to determine the particleboard with optimum properties. Characterizations of PBs were carried out by physical and mechanical analyses. After the PB surfaces were laminated with DP, abrasion resistance (AR), scratch resistance (SR), porosity (PO), and stain resistance (ST) analyses were performed. According to the results, as the SL increased, PBs density increased, but thickness swelling ( TS) and water absorption (WA) decreased. The thickness after sanding did not cause a significant change in the TS and WA. The internal bond (IB) strength increased 32% and the surface strength (SS) increase 38% when the density was increased.
Trusting in Times of the COVID-19 Crisis: Workplace and Government Trust and Depressive Symptoms among Healthcare Workers
Authors: Basic Djordje , Czepiel Diana , Ven Els van der , Hoek Hans W. , Moro Maria Francesca , McCormack Clare , Carta Mauro Giovanni , Šeblová Dominika , Susser Ezra , Mascayano Franco , Martinez-Ales Gonzalo , Šeblová Jana , Barathie Josleen Al , Karam Elie G , Silva Andréa Tenório Correia da , Ouali Uta , Gureje Oye , Ayinde Olatunde , Afolabi Oyeyemi , Olaopa Olusegun , Burrone María Soledad , Durand-Arias Sol , Ramírez Dorian E. , Solís-Soto Maria Teresa , Flores Jorge Ramírez , Alvarado Ruben , Isahakyan Anna , Alnasser Lubna A. , Nishi Daisuke , Asaoka Hiroki , Balalian Arin A. , Basagoitia Armando , Lindert Jutta , Santaella-Tenorio Julian , Sapag Jaime Camilo
Published: August 2024

Purpose
Previous research has highlighted the negative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare workers' (HCWs) mental health, yet protective factors remain underexplored. Emerging studies emphasize the importance of trust in government and interpersonal relationships in reducing COVID-19 infections and fostering positive attitudes toward vaccines. This study investigates the relationship between HCWs' trust in the workplace and government and depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods
The COVID-19 HEalth caRe wOrkErS (HEROES) study surveyed 32,410 HCWs from 22 countries, including both clinical and non-clinical staff. Participants completed the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) and ad-hoc questions assessing their trust in the workplace and government. Logistic regression and multilevel models were employed to examine the association between trust levels and depressive symptoms.
Results
High levels of trust in the workplace (OR = 0.72 [0.68, 0.76]) and government (OR = 0.72 [0.69, 0.76]) were associated with lower odds of depressive symptoms, with significant between-country variation in these associations.
Conclusions
Despite substantial cross-country variation, HCWs with higher trust in the workplace and government had approximately 28% lower odds of experiencing depressive symptoms during the COVID-19 pandemic compared to their counterparts with lower trust levels. Promoting trust in the workplace and government may help mitigate the adverse effects of future crises on HCWs' mental health.
Faprication of Palladium Nanoparticles Decorated Reduced Graphene Oxide as a Highly Active and Stable Electrocatalyst
Authors: Ahmed Nada Sami , Azizi Orchideh , El-Boher Arik , Bok Sangho
Published: August 2024

The present research provides novel evidence that the galvanostatic deposition of palladium nanoparticles (Pd NPs) onto a conductive substrate, specifically reduced graphene oxide (RGO), leads to a successful new form of electrocatalysis. These flexible electrodes are synthesized using electrochemical techniques that decorate RGO with both Pd nanoparticles and the PdII complex. The one-step electrochemical deposition from various types of electrolytes was demonstrated. Morphological and structural analyses revealed that Pd NPs can be efficiently, with remarkable stability and activity, electrochemically decorated on the surface of RGO using a Pd NP suspension electrolyte. In addition, electrochemical deposition from PdII complex resulted in a very high density of Pd decorated on the surface of RGO sheets. Several electrocatalytic properties are demanded in this study, which include excellent electrocatalytic activity, uniform dispersion of small Pd nanoparticles over the electrode surface, and high stability combined with flexibility.
Developing an Air Quality Index Model Predictor
Authors: Malakouti Seyed Matin , Menhaj Mohammad Bagher , Suratgar Amir Abolfazl
Published: August 2024

Pollutants and particles have a dynamic character, are highly volatile, and exhibit a high degree of temporal and spatial fluctuation, making it challenging to forecast air quality accurately. On the other hand, the ability to model, forecast, and monitor air quality is becoming more critical, particularly in metropolitan areas. This is because air pollution has significantly impacted the environment and human health. In this paper, we employ extra tree, random forest, Linear Discriminant Analysis, K Neighbors, Logistic regression, and ensemble [random forest, extra tree] machine learning methods to classify the air quality of India from 2015 to 2020. The presented results demonstrate that ensemble [random forest, extra tree] allows us to classify daily AQI (Air Quality Index) for all India's cities accurately.
The Probability of the May 2024 Solar Superstorm
Authors: Elvidge Sean , Themens David
Published: August 2024

In May 2024, a series of coronal mass ejections (CMEs) resulted in the first 'severe' (G4-level) geomagnetic storm watch in nearly 20 years. This event evolved into a significant space weather event, including an 'extreme' (G5) geomagnetic storm, moderate (S2) solar radiation storm, and strong (R3) radio blackout. The widespread visibility of auroras at unusually low latitudes attracted global media attention. Using extreme value theory (EVT), this study estimates the return periods for the May 2024 storm based on several geomagnetic indices. The results indicate that while the storm's magnitude was a 1-in-12.5-year event, its duration was a 1-in-41-year event. This discrepancy highlights the storm's unusual longevity compared to its intensity. Updated EVT analyses incorporating recent data refine these return period estimates, providing critical insights into the frequency of such extreme space weather events.
Pollen dispersal pattern from the mediterranean shrub Cistus ladanifer L. to its congener C. laurifolius L.: ecological and conservation implications
Authors: Carrió Elena , Pérez Álvaro D.
Published: August 2024

Gene flow between congeners in natural systems can have important consequences for the species involved. Cistus ladanifer plays a significant role in natural ecosystems and is also considered a valuable source of natural resources. The objective of this study is to investigate the pollen dispersal pattern from this species to its congener, Cistus laurifolius. To this end, an analysis of pollen analog dispersal (using fluorescent dye) was conducted in a mixed population of both species. The pollen dispersal pattern of C. ladanifer to C. laurifolius was estimated, and the relationship between the dispersal distance and the distance from the pollen analog source of C. ladanifer plants was investigated. The results showed the ability of C. ladanifer to pollinate C. laurifolius. Cistus laurifolius plants closer to the particle emission source provided by C. ladanifer individuals received a greater amount of pollen analogs (fluorescent dye) on their stigmas than those farther away. Most of the detected pollen analogs (80%) dispersed within 60 meters of the donor plants. The evidence of pollen transfer from C. ladanifer to C. laurifoliushighlights the importance of studying pollen dispersal patterns in species that are potential candidates for exploitation and use as new crops. This is crucial to avoid impacts on populations of other wild congeners.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Towards Diabetes Mellitus Tmong Chiro Town Population, Eastern Ethiopia
Authors: Wolde Wondimagegn , Atle Daniel , Girma Dechasa , Hailu Samuel
Published: August 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder of multiple etiological factors characterized by chronic hyperglycemia with disturbance of carbohydrate metabolism. It can play the vital role in the cause of morbidity and mortality through continued clinical consequence and mortality. Therefore good knowledge of diabetes mellitus prevention and management is necessary in promoting care and enhancing good therapeutic outcomes.
Objective:To assess the knowledge, attitude, practice and associated factors among general population regarding diabetes mellitus in Chiro town, Estern Ethiopia, august 01 to October 30, 2023.
Methods: Cross-sectional study design was conducted on 764 subjects from Augeust 01 to December 30, 2023. A pre-tested structured questionnaire was used to collect the socio-demographic information of the study participants. Data was enterd into Statstical Package for social science , checked for completeness and analyzed. The characteristics of the study population were summarized using descriptive statistics, frequency and percentage.
Result: The study revealed that 98% of respondents had heard of diabetes, with 80% correctly identifying it as a condition of high blood sugar and 25% recognizing inadequate insulin action as a characteristic. Additionally, 65.57% demonstrated good knowledge of diabetes, 60% had a positive attitude towards diabetes management, and 35.4% reported good practices. Despite these insights, misconceptions persisted, such as 25% believing diabetes is caused by a curse. Regular exercise and non-smoking were common positive practices, but only 10.4% regularly checked their blood sugar levels.
Conclusion and recommendation: This study highlights high diabetes awareness (98%) but incomplete understanding, with only 25% recognizing inadequate insulin action. Mixed perceptions about diabetes management and significant gaps in prevention practices underscore the need for targeted educational programs, emphasizing the treatability of diabetes, regular monitoring, and healthier lifestyle choices. Enhanced awareness of comprehensive diabetes care, including proper medication use and physical activity, is crucial.
Has Scale Sustained Its Value as an Important Element in Map-making in the Age of Geospatial Technology? Unveiling Grid Method for Area Measurement
Authors: Dhawale Nideshkumar , Patel Hemlata , Dhorde Amit
Published: August 2024

With respect to the age of analog cartography, the levels of detail of a particular region or feature are generally shown at an accurate scale, where the graphical representation of the scale correctly matches the level of classification used in those maps. Currently, many researchers are using geospatial techniques to extract information at different levels of classification of a particular region at a particular map scale. However, little attention has been given to the correlation between the classification level and scale during map composition, whereby the graphical representation of the scale on the final composed map is mostly erroneously depicted. In the modern era, most geographic information system (GIS) software has built-in default scales, which researchers normally prefer to use as such software without changing it. In such a situation, the question arises whether the scale has sustained its value as an important element in map making in the age of geospatial technology. The present study has tried to address this question while alarming all the researchers, especially geographers, are attempting to develop an accurate scale for a given level of classification. This study not only proposes the use of a Graticule/Grid method for area measurement but also establishes a relationship between scale and graticule extension, the contour interval, the spatial resolution of satellite images and the level of classification, which are displayed on a particular scale. The study tried to calculate the total area of Maharashtra using the Graticule method which resulted in an area of 307148.69 km2 which is closer to the actual area (307713 km2) of Maharashtra.
Modulating effective lymphatic drainage in aortic adventitia has anti-atherosclerotic effects: a new mechanism of FOXC2 to improve lymphatic endothelial cells inflammatory damage
Authors: Wu Hongfei , Bao Youli , Li Zhenglong
Published: August 2024

Atherosclerosis is a chronic multifactorial cardiovascular disease. The disruption of lymphatic drainage function, which is induced by inflammatory damage to lymphatic endothelial cells (LECs), plays an essential role in atherosclerosis. However, the detailed regulatory mechanisms remain largely unknown. Since FOXC2 has become a major regulator of lymphatic vessel development and maturation, we explored the possibility that FOXC2 contributes to lymphatic drainage and atherosclerosis. Herein, we identified FOXC2 mitigates atherosclerosis by restoring efficiently lymphatic drainage via regulating LECs inflammatory responses. Atherosclerosis leds to aortic lymphatic drainage dysfunction, and an down-regulation of FOXC2 expression in the aorta, especially in aortic adventitia, and an inhibition of the biological activity of FOXC2. FOXC2 overexpression improved the aortic lymphatic drainage function which led to reducing the accumulation of inflammatory factors in aortic adventitia, lymph nodes and lymphatic fluid. However, disruption of lymph flow by left carotid artery ligation abrogated the beneficial effects by FOXC2 overexpression on atherosclerosis. Western blot and co-immunoprecipitation experiment revealed that TRAF2 as a key downstream target in TNF-α-induced LECs inflammatory damage. FOXC2 overexpression down-regulated TRAF2, inhibited interaction of TNF-α with TRAF2, reduced the inflammatory damage to LECs, and restored LECs functions, which promoted the function of lymphatic drainage. FOXC2 knockout aggravated TNF-α-induced LECs inflammatory damage, TRAF2 up-regulation, and increased TNF-α interaction with TRAF2. Collectively, we have demonstrated that FOXC2 serves a central role in the atherogenesis induced by lymphatic drainage dysfunction.
Fluorescent GLP1R/GIPR dual agonist probes reveal cell targets in the pancreas and brain
Authors: Hodson David , de Bray Anne , Tong Jason , Huhn Christiane , Roßmann Kilian , Shilleh Ali , Jiang Wanqing , Roberts Anna , Viloria Katrina , Nasteska Daniela , Pearce Abigail , Miyazaki Satsuki , Tomlinson Jeremy , Owen Dylan , Nieves Daniel , Ast Julia , Cyranka Malgorzata , Epanchintsev Alexey , Ämmälä Carina Ämmälä , Reimann Frank , Ladds Graham , Adriaenssens Alice , Trapp Stefan , Jones Ben , Broichhagen Johannes
Published: August 2024

Dual agonists targeting the glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor (GLP1R) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide receptor (GIPR) are breakthrough treatments for type 2 diabetes and overweight. Compared to GLP1R agonists, dual agonists show superior efficacy for glucose lowering and weight reduction. However, delineation of dual agonist cell targets remains challenging. Here, we develop and test Tirzepa3 and Tirzepa5, fluorescent GLP1R/GIPR dual agonist probes. Tirzepa3 and Tirzepa5 have similar pharmacological profiles to tirzepatide, but advantageously show less functional selectivity for mouse GLP1R over mouse GIPR. Both probes specifically label GLP1R and GIPR in cells and tissue. Tirzepa3 and Tirzepa5 label all major rodent and human pancreatic islet cells, with signal intensity beta cells > alpha cells = delta cells. Systemic administration of Tirzepa5 strongly labels the median eminence, area postrema and other circumventricular organs characterized by an incomplete blood-brain barrier, but does not readily penetrate into the brain beyond this. Upon intracerebroventricular administration in the brain, Tirzepa5 co-localizes widely with GLP1R + and GIPR + neurons, with evidence of uptake by ventricle-lining cells in the 3rd ventricle. At the single molecule level, Tirzepa5 targets endogenous GLP1R-GIPR nanodomains, which differ in organization and composition to those targeted by single agonist. Tirzepa3 and Tirzepa5 thus reveal dual agonist targets in the pancreas and brain, and further inform the different modes of action of dual agonists versus single agonists.
Activin B improves glucose metabolism via induction of Fgf21 and hepatic glucagon resistance
Authors: Ueki Kohjiro , Kobayashi Naoki , Okazaki Yukiko , Iwane Aya , Hara Kazuo , Horikoshi Momoko , Awazawa Motoharu , Soeda Kotaro , Matsushita Maya , Sasako Takayoshi , Yoshimura Kotaro , Itoh Nobuyuki , Kobayashi Kenta , Seto Yasuyuki , Yamauchi Toshimasa , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Blüher Matthias , Kadowaki Takashi
Published: August 2024

Orchestrated hormonal interacts in response to feeding and fasting play a pivotal role in regulating glucose homeostasis. Here, we show that in obesity, the production of follistatin-like 3 (FSTL3), an endogenous inhibitor of Activin B, in adipose tissue is increased in both mice and humans. However, the knockdown of FSTL3 improves insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in diabetic obese db/db mice. Notably, the overexpression of Activin B, a member of TGFβ superfamily, induced in liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) by fasting, has multiple metabolically beneficial effects, including improvement insulin sensitivity, suppression of hepatic glucose production, and enhancement of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion, which are attenuated by the overexpression of FSTL3. Activin B increases insulin sensitivity and reduces fat by inducing fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) while suppressing glucagon action in the liver by increasing phosphodiesterase 4 B (PDE4B), leading to hepatic glucagon resistance and resultant hyperglucagonemia. Activin B-induced hyperglucagonemia enhances glucose-stimulated insulin secretion by stimulating glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor in pancreatic β-cells. Thus, enhancing the action of Activin B by improving multiple components of the pathogenesis of diabetes may be a promising strategy for diabetes treatment.
Muscle-specific gene editing therapy via mammalian fusogen-directed virus-like particles
Authors: Wang Jun , Zhou Shi-Kun , Luo Jing-Tong , Chen Yi-Fang , Lu ZiDong , Jian Qiu-Hong , Jiang Shui-Qing , Li Jing , Zhang Xue-Qin , Tan Xin-Yu , Yang Xianzhu , Xu Cong-Fei
Published: August 2024

Muscle genetic defects can lead to impaired movement, respiratory failure, and other severe symptoms. The development of curative therapies is challenging due to the need for the delivery of gene-editing tools into skeletal muscle cells throughout the body. Here, we used muscular fusogens (Myomaker and Myomerger) to engineer muscle-specific virus-like particles (MuVLPs) for the systemic delivery of gene-editing tools. We demonstrated that MuVLPs can be loaded with diverse payloads, including EGFP, Cre and Cas9/sgRNA ribonucleoproteins (Cas9 RNPs), and can be delivered into muscle cells via targeted membrane fusion. Systemic administration of MuVLPs carrying Cas9 RNPs enabled muscle-specific gene editing, which excised the exon containing a premature terminator codon mutation in mice with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. This treatment restored dystrophin expression in various muscle tissues, including the diaphragm, quadriceps, tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius, and triceps. As a result, the treated mice exhibited a significantly increased capacity for exercise and endurance. This study established a platform for precise gene editing in muscle tissues.
Villification of the intestinal epithelium is driven by Foxl1
Authors: Kaestner Klaus , Zhu Guoli , Lahori Deeksha , Schug Jonathan
Published: August 2024

The primitive gut tube of mammals initially forms as a simple cylinder consisting of the endoderm-derived, pseudostratified epithelium and the mesoderm-derived surrounding mesenchyme. During mid-gestation a dramatic transformation occurs in which the epithelium is both restructured into its final cuboidal form and simultaneously folded and refolded to create intestinal villi and intervillus regions, the incipient crypts. Here we show that the mesenchymal winged helix transcription factor Foxl1, itself induced by epithelial hedgehog signaling, controls villification by activating BMP and PDGFRa as well as planar cell polarity genes in epithelial-adjacent telocyte progenitors, both directly and in a feed- forward loop with Foxo3. In the absence of Foxl1-dependent mesenchymal signaling, villus formation is delayed, the separation of epithelial cells into mitotic intervillus and postmitotic villus cells impaired, and the differentiation of secretory progenitors blocked. Thus, Foxl1 orchestrates key events during the epithelial transition of the fetal mammalian gut.