bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinicopathological characterization of subgroups in anti-glomerular basement membrane nephritis patients From a Single Center in China: A 12-Year observational study
Authors: Fang Kun , Wang Rui , Ding Yan , Zhou Wenxv , Zhou Zheren , Wei Ting , Yang Yi , Feng Jie
Published: April 2024

Background
Despite the previous reports of patients with combined anti-glomerular basement membrane (anti-GBM) disease occurring sequentially or simultaneously with other nephropathies, most of them have been reported seperately. The complication of these diseases is rare and the mechanism is not clear, and their immuno-antibodies, microscopic picture, clinical presentation, treatment and prognosis are different, therefore, we presented the collection of anti-GBM with combined disease such as membranous nephropathy (MN), anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA), IgA nephropathy and atypical anti-GBM to systematically characterized the epidemiological features, clinical manifestations, pathological features and herapeutic outcomes through a summative review.
Method
We retrospectively a case series of 39 anti-GBM diseases from a single center in Northwest China from 2011–2023.
Results
A total of 39 patients with anti-GBM disease including 19 males and 20 females were collected with a mean age of 50.0 ± 14.6 years. Among them there were 22 cases (22/39,56.4%) of anti-GBM alone, 6 cases (6/39,15.4%) of combined ANCA, 6 cases (6/39,15.4%) of combined MN, 2 cases (2/39,5.1%) of combined IgAN, and 3 cases (3/39,7.7%) of atypical anti-GBM nephropathy. The mean duration of the disease was 2.6 ± 6.2 months. Clinical symptoms were dominated by fever 68.2% (15/22), oliguria/anuria 63.6% (14/22), and microscopic haematuria 88.9% (16/22,) in the anti-GBM alone group, and nausea and vomiting 50% (3/6) in the anti-GBM + MN group, and edema 83.3% (5/6) in the anti-GBM + MN group. The proportion of patients requiring hemodialysis (HD) at the first visit was 79.5% (31/39) in all patients, 56.4% (22/39) in the anti-GBM alone group, 66.7% (4/6) in the anti-GBM + ANCA group, 66.7% (4/6) in the anti-GBM + MN group, and 100% (2/2) in the anti-GBM + IgAN group. Among them, 56.4% had more than 85% glomerular involvement. The proportion of sclerotic glomeruli was higher in the anti-GBM and anti-GBM + ANCA groups. The highest percentage of cellular crescents was found in the anti-GBM group as long with fibrous crescents in the anti-GBM + ANCA group. Immunofluorescence staining demonstrated positive IgG and C3 staining in all subgroups.
Conclusions
We concluded that the complication of other nephritis is another potential risk factor for anti-GBM, which is directly attributable to the adverse effects of the different immune depositions and pathological features on renal function, as timely intervention in patients with different pathological features is crucial.
The Impact of the Wingate Test on Anaerobic Power in the Lower Limbs of Athletes with Varied Time and Load
Authors: Liu Ying , Yan Juntao , Gong Zhigang , Liu Qi
Published: April 2024

This study investigates the effects of Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) on anaerobic capacity(AC) at different time (20s, 30s, 40s, 45s) and resistance load (7.5%BM, 8.5%BM, 9.5%BM, 10.5%BM).12 male runners of 200m、400m were subjected to four wingate tests of different times and loads.The changes of AC and lower limb muscle characteristics were analyzed by WAnT and electromyography.The result shows that the IEMG, RMS%, MPF and AC of lower limb muscles of RF，BF，VM，VL，TA and LG were increased by time (P < 0.05 or P < 0.01), but there was no significant difference in IEMG of MG (P > 0.05). Load significantly increased AC, IEMG, RMS% and MPF of lower limb muscles (P < 0.01). The interaction effect of time and load had no significant difference on PP, MP, RPE, IEMG, RMS% and MPF (P > 0.05), but increased on FI (P < 0.05).In conclusion, for 200m and 400m athletes, it is recommended to use a combination of 20s and 10.5%BM load to achieve optimal peak power and training effect,as well as a combination of 20s and 9.5%BM load for better average power and training effect.
Differential bioaccumulation patterns of heavy metals and organochlorine pesticides in the Northern Shoveler and Northern Pintail (Avian: Anatidae) related to blood parameters and body condition
Authors: Muñoz Sarahi Roos , Acevedo Edgar Cruz , Castillo-Guerrero Alfredo , Torres-Bugarin Olivia , Río-Zaragoza Oscar Basilio del , García-Hernandez Jaqueline , Aguilar-Zarate Gabriela , Danemann Gustavo D. , Lozano Miguel Betancourt
Published: April 2024

Organochlorine pesticides (OCP) and heavy metals are contaminants that threaten ecosystem health. Migratory birds can bioaccumulate these contaminants; therefore, contaminant effects should be assessed during reproductive, migratory, and wintering stages. We assessed Hg, Pb, and OCPs in the Northern Shoveler (Spatula clypeata) and Northern Pintail (Anas acuta) during their winter stay in southern Sinaloa, Mexico, evaluating associations with exposure and the effects on health-status biomarkers. These migratory ducks use a wide variety of sites in the central and western United States, Canada, and Alaska and along the Mexican portion of the eastern Pacific Flyway. Spatula clypeata showed significantly higher concentrations of Hg in feathers compared to those found in A. acuta. Although there were no differences between species in feather Pb concentrations, the concentrations were high, indicating widespread Pb contamination in wetlands along migratory routes. Compared to those of A. acuta, S. clypeata exhibited lower condition index values, higher organosomatic index values, a higher degree of Hg and OCP bioaccumulation, and a higher OCP liver/muscle ratio. Both species showed similar associations between OCP and Pb concentrations and high spleensomatic index values. Neither species exhibited a relationship between contaminants and the heterophile/lymphocyte ratio or budcells in polychromatic erythrocytes. Our results indicate that both species, despite coexisting along their migratory routes and in their wintering habitat, likely have different bioaccumulation profiles due to differences in trophic niches.
An expert rule-based approach for identifying infantile-onset Pompe disease patients using retrospective electronic health records
Authors: Rustamov Jaloliddin , Rustamov Zahiriddin , Mohamad Mohd Saberi , Zaki Nazar , Tenaiji Amal Al , Harbi Mariam Al , Jasmi Fatma Al
Published: April 2024

Pompe disease (OMIM #232300), a rare genetic disorder, leads to glycogen buildup in the body due to an enzyme deficiency, particularly harming the heart and muscles. Infantile-onset Pompe disease (IOPD) requires urgent treatment to prevent mortality, but diagnosis is often delayed by inadequate newborn screening (NBS) methods or the unavailability of these methods. Our study aims to streamline IOPD diagnosis in the UAE using electronic health records (EHRs) for faster, more accurate detection and timely treatment initiation. This study utilized electronic health records from the Abu Dhabi Healthcare Company (SEHA) healthcare network in the UAE to develop an expert rule-based screening approach operationalized through a dashboard. The study encompassed six diagnosed IOPD patients and screened 93,365 subjects. Expert rules were formulated to identify potential high-risk IOPD patients based on their age, particular symptoms, and creatine kinase levels. The proposed approach was evaluated using accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity. The proposed approach accurately identified five true positives, one false negative, and four false positive IOPD cases. The false negative case involved a patient with both Pompe disease and congenital heart disease. The focus on CHD led to the overlooking of Pompe disease, exacerbated by no measurement of creatine kinase. The false positive cases were diagnosed with Mitochondrial DNA depletion syndrome 12-A (SLC25A4 gene), Immunodeficiency-71 (ARPC1B mutation), Niemann-Pick disease type C (NPC1 gene mutation leading to frameshift), and Group B Streptococcus meningitis. The proposed approach of integrating expert rules with a dashboard facilitated efficient data visualization and automated patient screening, which aids in the early detection of Pompe disease. Future studies are encouraged to investigate the application of machine learning methodologies to enhance further the precision and efficiency of identifying patients with IOPD.
Mediators profile in COVID-19 convalescence: an approach in individuals from amazon
Authors: Silva-Junior Alexander Leonardo , Oliveira Lucas Silva , Dias Stephanny , Costa Thaina Cristina Cardoso , Xabregas Lilyane Amorim , Alves-Hanna Fabiola Silva , Abrahim Cláudia Maria Moura , Neves Walter Luiz Lima , Crispim Myuki Alfaia Esashika , Toro Diana Mota , Silva-Neto Pedro Vieira , Aponte Danielle Costa Marques , Oliveira Tatiana Campos , Silva Maria Carmo Costa , Matos Miharu Maguinoria Matsuura , Carvalho Maria Socorro Sampaio , Tarrago Andrea Monteiro , Fraiji Nelson Abrahim , Faccioli Lúcia Helena , Sorgi Carlos Artério , Sabino Ester Cerdeira , Teixeira-Carvalho Andrea , Martins-Filho Olindo Assis , Costa Allyson Guimarães , Malheiro Adriana
Published: April 2024

COVID-19 caused the pandemic situation experienced since the beginning of 2020, and many countries faced the rapid spread and severe. Mechanisms of interaction between the virus and the host were observed during acute phase, but few data are available when related to immunity dynamics in convalescents. We conducted a cross-sectional study, with 51 healthy donors and 62 COVID-19 convalescent patients, which these had a two-month follow-up after symptoms recovery. Venous blood sample was obtained from all participants to measure blood count, subpopulations of monocytes, lymphocytes, natural killer cells and dendritic cells. Serum was used to measure cytokines, chemokines, growth factors, anti-N IgG and anti-S IgG/IgM antibodies. Less than 35% of convalescents were anti-S IgM+, while more than 80% were IgG+ in D30. Anti-N IgG decreased along time, with loss of seroreactivity of 13%. Eosinophil count played a distinct role on both antibodies during all study, and the convalescence was orchestrated by higher neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and IL-15, but initial stages were marked by increase in myeloid DCs, B1 lymphocytes, inflammatory and patrolling monocytes, G-CSF, IL-2 and IFN-γ/IL-4 ratio. Later convalescence seemed to change to cytotoxicity mediated by T lymphocytes, plasmacytoid DCs, VEGF, IL-9 and CXCL10. Anti-S IgG antibodies showed the longest perseverance and may be a better option for diagnosis. The inflammatory pattern is yet present on initial stage of convalescence, but quickly shifts to a reparative dynamic. Meanwhile eosinophils played a key factor on anti-N production in convalescence. We must highlight the importance of immunological markers on acute clinical outcomes, but their comprehension to potentialize adaptive system must be explored to improve immunizations and further preventive policies.
A Novel Acoustic Micro-Perforated Panel (MPP) Based on sugar cane fibers and bagasse
Authors: Beheshti Mohammad Hosein , Jafarizaveh Mostafa , tabrizi akram
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND: Natural materials are becoming a reliable alternative to traditional artificial materials used in sound absorption insulation OBJECTIVE: The present study was conducted to investigate the acoustic insulation of Micro-Perforated Panel (MPP) Based on sugar cane fibers and bagasse as an available, and environmentally friendly material. METHOD: absorption properties of single and double-leaf natural Micro-Perforated Panels (MPP) made of bagasse and also non-natural MPPs made of Plexiglass were measured using an impedance tube based on ISO 10534-2. Then the effect of bagasse and sugar cane fibers composite on the Air gap of MPP was investigated.
RESULT: The results showed the peak of the sound absorption of the bagasse composite is in the range of 1000 to 2000 Hz, and the sugarcane fiber composite has a higher sound absorption coefficient than the bagasse composite. Also, natural MPPs have a higher absorption coefficient than non-natural MPPs at all frequencies, and as the panel thickness increases, the peak absorption coefficient shifts to lower frequencies. The peak of the sound absorption coefficient of double-leaf MPPs made of bagasse is 76%, in the range of 160 to 200 Hz. Using sugarcane fiber composite in the Air Gap of single and double-leaf natural MPPs causes the absorption peak to shift to frequencies below 100 Hz.
CONCLUSION: According to the results, natural MPPs have a high sound absorption coefficient at low frequencies. These panels can control sounds with much lower frequencies, especially in a double layer and along with cane fiber composite in their Air Gap.
Efficient Synaptic Emulation and Ultralow Power Digital-Analog Conversion in Cellulose-Based Neural Devices through Molecular Polarization
Authors: Chang Kuan-Chang , Xu Yihua , Wang Mingge , Peng Zehui , Hsieh Dar-Jen , Li Lei
Published: April 2024

Efficient hardware-cell communication is crucial in understanding cellular states and controlling cells, serving as a crucial pathway in advancing next-generation human-machine interfaces. Here, we propose an energy-efficient neural device based on natural cellulose, addressing limitations in conventional interface communication hardware, particularly concerning material biocompatibility and biological signal matching. The cellulose-based device effectively emulates the plasticity of biological synaptic connection and exhibits learning behavior under continuous pulse stimuli as low as 10 mV. Significantly, it demonstrates exceptional digital-to-analog conversion performance with a minimal power consumption of 0.1 nJ, facilitating efficient interface biological signal matching. Furthermore, a molecular-level model is introduced to elucidate the rotation of intramolecular polar bonds in cellulose induced by electrical stimulation. This rotation alters the material's relative dielectric constant, unveiling the digital-to-analog conversion ability and neuro-like behavior. Moreover, the transparent cellulose thin film serves as both a dielectric layer and mechanical support, enabling the device to maintain functional stability under various curvatures. The flexible and biocompatible cellulose-based neural device in this work not only efficiently emulates synapses but also, with its low-power signal conversion, holds promise for effective biological signal matching in brain-machine interface applications.
Growth hormone treatment response: associated factors and stimulated growth hormone secretion indices in prepubertal children with idiopathic GH deficiency
Authors: Giannakopoulos Aristeidis , Kallimani Eleni , Efthymiadou Alexandra , Chrysis Dionisios
Published: April 2024

Purpose The aim of this study is to correlate the growth response in prepubertal children with idiopathic growth hormone (GH) deficiency after one year of treatment with growth hormone to the initial clinical and biochemical parameters. It also aims to study the secretory dynamics of GH by analyzing the profiles of GH stimulation tests in relation to the recombinant GH (rhGH) treatment response.Methods This a retrospective study which included 84 prepubertal children (47 males and 37 females) with a definitive diagnosis of GH deficiency. The GH secretory indexes GHmax, GH secretion rate (GHSR) and GH secretion volume (GHSV) were analyzed in relation to the response to rhGH treatment as defined by the index of responsiveness (IoR). Correlation and regression models were used to identify the best clinical and biochemical predictors to rhGH treatment.Results IoR was correlated negatively with the age (r=-0.607, p < 0.01) and positively with the distance of child’s height from its MPH r = 0.466 (p < 0.01) and pretreatment growth velocity (r = 0.247, p < 0.05). GH secretory indexes correlated together, with the highest association being observed between GHmax and GHSV (r = 0.883, p < 0.01). Regarding the GH secretory indexes, GHmax was the best predictor of IoR (β coef. = -0.514, p < 0.001) followed by the GHSV (β coef. = -0.47, p < 0.001) and GHSR (β coef. = -0.367 p < 0.001).Conclusions The age and the distance of child’s height from its MPH are major predictors of rhGH treatment response in children with idiopathic GH deficiency. The calculation of the other GH secretory indexes GHSR and GHSV are not better predictors of response to rhGH than GHmax. The combination of clinical and biochemical indexes may improve the pretreatment assessment of response to rhGH treatment.
Molecular similarities between the genes for Trypanosoma cruzi microtubule associated proteins, mammalian interferons, and TRIMs
Authors: Winkler Martin A. , Pan Alfred A.
Published: April 2024

Initial studies using bioinformatics analysis revealed DNA sequence similarities between Trypanosoma cruzi GenBank M21331, coding for Antigen 36 (Ag 36), and Tripartite Motif (TRIM) genes. TRIM40 showed 9.7% identity to GenBank® M21331 and four additional TRIM genes had identities greater than 5.0%. TRIM37 showed a continuous stretch of identity of 12 nucleotides, that is at least 25% longer than any of the other TRIMs. When we extended our analysis on the relationships of GenBank M21331 to further innate immune genes, using the Needleman-Wunsch (NW) algorithm for alignment, identities to human IFN-α, IFN-β, and IFN-γ genes of 13.6%, 12.6%, and 17.9%, respectively, were found. To determine the minimum number of genes coding for proteins closely related to Ag 36, a BLAST-p search was conducted with it versus the T. cruzi genome. The BLAST-p search revealed that T. cruzi GenBank M21331 had 14 genes sequences homologous to Microtubule Associated Protein (MAP) genes with 100% amino acid sequence identity. To verify the similarities in non-human genes, a study comparing TRIM21 region sequences among mammalian species to the comparable human TRIM21 region showed that related sequences were also present in 11 mammalian species. The MAP genes homologous to Ag 36 form a family of at least 14 genes which mimic human immune genes in the IFN and TRIM families. This mimicry is of gene sequences, and not their protein products or epitopes. These results appear to be the first description of molecular mimicry of immune genes in humans by a protozoan parasite.
Comparison of intra-ovarian metabolic environment between women with or without PCOS undergoing in vitro fertilization
Authors: Gervais Alexandre , Ostinelli Giada , Faubert Joanie , Battista Marie-Claude , Carranza-Mamane Belina , Lavoie Hélène B. , Baillargeon Jean-Patrice
Published: April 2024

Context: Evidence suggest that lipotoxicity can cause hyperandrogenesis, the main feature of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but little is known about the intra-ovarian environment of women with PCOS and whether it displays features associated with lipotoxicity. Here we present a secondary analysis of data collected in a cross-sectional study aimed at evaluating the associations between follicular fluid androgen levels and markers of dysmetabolism in women seeking in vitro fertilization.
Objective: To compare follicular fluid concentrations of testosterone, markers of lipid, lipid metabolism and inflammation between women with PCOS and without PCOS.
Design: Controlled cross-sectional study.
Setting: A private fertility clinic and one academic centre.
Patients: Eighty (80) participants were recruited during one of their scheduled visits for an in vitro fertilization procedure. Medical records were used to determine PCOS diagnosis: 13 women were identified as having PCOS, while 58 had a negative diagnosis of PCOS, and 9 had an uncertain diagnostic. Patients were eligible if they were between 18 and 40 years old with a body mass index raging between 18 and 40 kg/m2.
Exposure(s): Participants were defined as affected by PCOS or not.
Main Outcome Measure(s): Follicular fluid retrieved at the time of oocyte aspiration was analysed for total testosterone, non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), triglycerides, NEFA metabolites (acylcarnitines and C16/C13 ratio as a marker of ineffective NEFA beta-oxidation) and inflammatory cytokines.
Results: When compared to women without PCOS, women with PCOS had increased follicular fluid levels of testosterone (by definition; 12.9 nM vs 0.29 nM; P<0.001), NEFA (0.27 nM vs 0.24 nM; P=0.051), triglycerides (0.30 nM vs 0.16 nM; P<0.001), acylcarnitines C16/C3 ratio (34.9 % vs 25.8 %; P=0.013), IL-6 (13.0 pg/mL vs 8.6 pg/mL; P=0.02), while TNF-α remained similar (2.22 pg/mL vs 2.11 pg/mL; P=0.78). These differences remained statistically different after adjustment for BMI, except for IL-6. These group differences were also confirmed in paired analyses of 13 BMI-matched pairs of PCOS vs non-PCOS women, except for C16/C3 ratio and IL-6.
Conclusion: These results suggest a role for intra-ovarian inflammation, but more importantly, lipid overexposure and ineffective lipid oxidation, in the pathogenesis of PCOS, probably through lipotoxic effects.
Effect of Scanning Strategy on the Microstructure and Load-Bearing Characteristics of Additive Manufactured Parts
Authors: Jose S Silva Sajin , Mishra Santosh Kr. , Upadhyay Ram Krishna
Published: April 2024

In this work, 316L steel is used to fabricate additive manufactured parts using three scanning strategies - continuous, alternate, and island. The scanning strategy is selected based on the grain orientation and compaction support provided to the material under stress. The load-bearing capacity is evaluated by measuring frictional and wear properties. The wear patch track is examined to establish the surface interface's physical mechanism, which is responsible for the smooth transition in response to the applied load. The grain orientation for the different strategies is compared using EBSD maps. Also, the effect of surface roughness on the sliding behavior of scanning strategies is evaluated. The island scanning strategy is considered better for load-bearing applications, considering the grain orientation and hardness of additive manufactured parts.
Nutrient and Particulate Matter Sedimentation Rates in Penaeus Vannamei Cultures With Different Stocking Densities
Authors: Oliveira Camila Tâmires Alves , Barreto Maurilio Kaique , Henry-Silva Gustavo Gonzaga
Published: April 2024

This study evaluated the sedimentation rates of nutrients and particulate matter from monocultures of Pacific white shrimp, Penaeus vannamei, with different stocking densities in a semi-arid tropical region. The crops analyzed were C6: initial density of 6 shrimp.m− 2; C20: 20 shrimp.m− 2; and C50: 50 shrimp.m− 2. Two collections of sedimented material were conducted with the aid of sedimentation chambers, which took place in the period before cultivation (BC) and the other, at the end of cultivation (EC). The sedimentation rates of particulate matter and organic material in C6 and C50 in the EC period were significantly higher than values in the BC. The sedimentation rates of inorganic matter were significantly higher at the end of the three cultivations, contrary to what was observed for nitrogen and total phosphorus. C50 – EC had higher values of particulate matter, total phosphorus, organic and inorganic matter. We can conclude that although the cultivation time of C50 (64 days) was shorter than that of C6 (80) and C20 (99 days), it presented the highest values regarding sedimentation rates, possibly due to the high supply of feed in the cultivation of higher stocking density and, consequently, greater production of excrement and feed waste.
KMT2A facilitates the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition and the progression of ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhu Yuan , Tang Ranran , Jiang Shenyuan , Chen Haiyan , Jia Genmei , Miao Juan
Published: April 2024

Background Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) plays critical roles in cancer progression and metastasis. Thus, the exploration of the molecular mechanism regulating EMT would provide potential opportunities for the therapy of metastatic ovarian cancer (OC). Herein, we investigated the putative role of KMT2A in modulating EMT and metastasis in OC.
Methods The expression of KMT2A in OC was detected by western blot and immunohistochemistry and its relationship with clinicopathological factors was analyzed. The effect of KMT2A on the biological behavior of OC cells was examined. Moreover, the expressions of EMT-associated proteins were detected in vivo and vitro by western blot, immunofluorescence and immunohistochemistry.
Results KMT2A was highly expressed in OC cell lines and tissues and was positively correlated with advanced International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics(FIGO) stage, pathological grade and metastasis. KMT2A overexpression was correlated with poor prognosis. Suppression of KMT2A inhibited OC cells proliferation, migration, invasion and induced their apoptosis in vitro and vivo. In contrast, the ectopic expression of KMT2A had the opposite effects. Furthermore, KMT2A knockdown inhibited TGF-β-induced EMT in OC and reduced the phosphorylation levels of Smad2.
Conclusion Taken together, these observations demonstrate that KMT2A could promote the malignant behavior of OC by activating TGF-β/Smad signaling pathway and may be a potential prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target for OC.
The causal relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease and constipation: a study utilizing bidirectional mendelian randomization combined with meta-analysis
Authors: Wei Xingxing , Che Xiangming
Published: April 2024

Background Observational studies have revealed a correlation between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and constipation; however, such findings do not inherently establish causality. Comprehensive and detailed research is essential for ascertaining the direct causal links between these conditions.
Methods In this study, we integrated bidirectional two-sample Mendelian Randomization (MR) with meta-analysis to investigate the causal relationship between GERD and constipation. Pleiotropy assessments were conducted and the MR-PRESSO technique was applied to outlier data complemented by heterogeneity tests to enhance analytical precision. Leveraging data from various databases, we performed two rounds of MR analysis employing inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR-Egger regression, and the weighted median method. The choice between the IVW random effects and fixed effects models was determined by the data heterogeneity. Critical IVW results were further subjected to meta-analysis to validate their reliability and broad applicability. Additionally, a reverse Mendelian randomization analysis was performed. This comprehensive methodology enables detailed examination of the causal link, laying the foundation for future clinical research and intervention strategies.
Results We used the FinnGen R10 and GWAS catalog datasets to explore the causal link between GERD and constipation via MR analysis. Initially, with GERD as the exposure and constipation as the outcome, the FinnGen dataset revealed a positive correlation, as evidenced by an IVW Odds Ratio (OR) of 1.18 (95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.11-1.26, p=3.15×10-7). Similarly, the GWAS catalog data affirmed a positive association, with an IVW OR of 1.56 (95% CI: 1.33-1.85, p=1.27×10-7). A subsequent meta-analysis corroborated this positive correlation (OR = 1.35, 95% CI: 1.02-1.77, p = 0.035). Moreover, a reverse causation analysis, considering GERD as the outcome and constipation as the exposure, further indicated a positive correlation (OR=1.08, 95% CI=1.03-1.12, p=7.21×10-4).
Conclusion Our study demonstrated that GERD and constipation are mutual risk factors and exhibit a bidirectional causal relationship, with exposure to GERD having a more substantial effect than constipation. These findings provide valuable insights for further studies on the biological mechanisms and clinical treatments.
Design and Implementation of an Advanced Home Automation System using WiFi Technology
Authors: Gavsane Sourabh , Kolhe Sujata
Published: April 2024

Design and Implementation of an Advanced Home Automation System using Wi-Fi Technology. A system of remote monitoring and self auto controlling are very much necessary. Smart home appliances are one the beneficiary of system equipped with home appliances which we wish to control smartly from anywhere. Machine-to-Machine and Man-to-Machine are the basic communication platforms that enable home appliances to communicate with each other to be more efficiently operated. According to the experimental results, the impact of wireless interference on the proposed smart home control network is substantially mitigated. Additionally, a smart control algorithm for lighting systems and an analysis of the illumination of lighting is present. The energy saving of lighting systems relative to those without smart control is evaluating. Numerical results indicate that the electricity consumption on a sunny or cloudy day can be reduced by at least 40% under the smart control. This paper presents a comprehensive review of the smart home automation network communication protocols that are used to enable bidirectional communication between the home owners, utilities and smart home appliances. Moreover, a prototype for the proposed smart home control network with the smart control algorithm is implemented.
Factors influencing medication adherence among hypertensive patients: A qualitative study
Authors: Nfor Joyce , Warri Denis
Published: April 2024

Background: Medication non-adherence is a significant challenge in managing chronic diseases like hypertension. It often results in poor health outcomes and increased healthcare costs. Therefore, understanding patients' perspectives on barriers to adherence is vital in developing realistic interventions to promote medication adherence in hypertension and similar chronic diseases.
Aim: This qualitative phenomenological study aimed to explore the experiences and barriers to adherence among hypertensive patients at the Bamenda Regional Hospital in Cameroon.
Methods: Semi-structured interviews and a focus group discussion were conducted with 10 hypertensive patients aged 30 years and above, having difficulties adhering to their treatment plan. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed by thematic analysis using NVivo software.
Results: Several key factors hindering adherence were identified from the themes including limited knowledge and awareness about hypertension and its treatment, negative attitudes and perceptions towards hypertension management, socioeconomic constraints limiting access to care, lack of social support, and poor patient-provider relationships. The study revealed a predominance of the biomedical model of care which often neglected patients' psychosocial needs.
Conclusion: Addressing the barriers to adherence in hypertension patients demands a patient-centred approach to care. Such an approach must combine interventions for patient education and socioeconomic support. Social support systems, family involvement in care, and proper improved patient-provider collaboration also hold the potential to improve adherence.
Recommendations: Based on the findings, this study recommends the implementation of targeted interventions such as patient education, socioeconomic support systems, family involvement in care, and training of care providers on patient-provider collaboration. Adopting a biopsychosocial care model is also crucial for promoting adherence.
An epiQTL underlying asexual seed formation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Pankaj Rishabh , Shoejaeyfar Shiana , Figueiredo Duarte D.
Published: April 2024

Seed development in most angiosperms is coupled to fertilization of the maternal gametes by two sperm cells. However, apomictic species can reproduce asexually via seeds. This trait is of great agricultural interest, as it would fix complex genotypes and allow for pollen-independent seed production. However, engineering full apomixis requires three independent processes: apomeiosis, parthenogenesis and autonomous endosperm development. While the first two have been successfully engineered in some crops, the formation of functional autonomous endosperms remains a challenge. Although it is known that this trait is under epigenetic control, like of DNA methylation, the underlying mechanisms remain mostly undiscovered. Here, using epigenetic recombinant inbred lines (epiRILs) we identified an epigenetic quantitative trait locus (epiQTL) in the Arabidopsis chromosome 2, which correlates with permissiveness for the formation of asexual seeds: hypomethylation at this genomic region allows the formation of larger autonomous endosperms. Importantly, the methylation at this locus only correlates with asexual seed size, and not to the size of sexual seeds or that of other organs. With this, we aim to show that screening for epialleles is a promising strategy to uncover loci underlying relevant traits and could pave the way to identifying genes necessary for the engineering of apomixis.
Advertising Literacy von Jugendlichen im Kontext von Influencer:innen-Marketing
Authors: Jahn Josephine , Vogel Tobias , Heinz Aaron , Duffner-Korbee Dorien , Rüther Lale , Marksteiner Tamara
Published: April 2024

Werbung durch Influencer:innen stellt für Jugendliche eine Herausforderung dar, da sich redaktionelle Inhalte eines Mediums (ohne Verkaufsabsicht) mit persuasiven Inhalten von Werbebotschaften (mit Verkaufsabsicht) verschränken. Der vorliegende Beitrag hat daher das Ziel, ein Erhebungsinstrument zu entwickeln, das die Kompetenz Jugendlicher im Umgang mit Influencer:innen-Marketing erfasst. Hierzu wurden bestehende Skalen zur Advertising Literacy übersetzt, an den Kontext von Influencer:innen-Marketing adaptiert und erweitert. Die resultierenden Items wurden anhand einer Stichprobe von 14- bis 18-Jährigen (N = 248) validiert. Basierend auf faktoranalytischen Ergebnissen wird die Adolescent Advertising Literacy Scale – Influencer Marketing (AALS-IM) vorgeschlagen. Diese Skala unterscheidet in ihrer finalen Fassung zwei Dimensionen der dispositionalen Kompetenz Advertising Literacy: Die konzeptuelle Dimension bezieht sich auf das Wissen über und das Erkennen von Influencer:innen-Marketing, während die evaluative Dimension die persönliche Haltung gegenüber Influencer:innen-Marketing darstellt. Beide Dimensionen werden im Instrument durch acht Skalen abgebildet, die sich aus insgesamt 41 Items zusammensetzen. Eine anwendungsbezogene Dimension, wie sie in der theoretischen Herleitung angenommen wurde, konnte in der empirischen Untersuchung nicht bestätigt werden. Die Betrachtung deskriptiver Statistiken und Schätzungen der internen Konsistenz sowie die Analyse korrelativer Zusammenhänge zwischen und innerhalb der Dimensionen ergänzen die Validierung. Ansätze für weiterführende Untersuchungen von Advertising Literacy im Kontext des Influencer:innen-Marketings werden abschliessend diskutiert.
Interaction between birds and technical linear structures
Authors: Шилин М.Б. , Леднова Ю.А. , Меньшакова М.Ю. , Гайнанова Р.И. , Румянцева Е.А.
Published: April 2024

По результатам анализа опыта наилучшей международной практики и собственных наблюдений рассмотрено взаимодействие птиц с линейными техническими объектами: железными и автомобильными дорогами, мостами, линиями электропередач, гидротехническими сооружениями, изгородями и ограждающими конструкциями, искусственно высаженной растительностью, а также с элементами сопутствующей инфраструктуры (телефонные и телеграфные столбы, элементы освещения и т. п.). Выявлены факторы положительного и негативного воздействия линейных техногенных объектов на орнитофауну. Показано, что проанализированные виды воздействия линейных техногенных объектов на орнитофауну должны рассматриваться в совокупности, на основе системного подхода как и сами линейные объекты, представляющие собой комплекс собственно линейного объекта и сопутствующей инфраструктуры.

On the base of analysis of the best international practice and original observations the influence of different linear technogenic objects on birds is evaluated - such as railways and roads, bridges, power lines, hydraulic structures, fences and barriers, artificially planted vegetation, as well as elements of accompanying infrastructure (telephone and telegraph poles, lighting elements, etc.). Factors of positive and negative effects of the linear technogenic objects on the ornithofauna are revealed. It is shown that the anthropogenic effects on ornithofauna should be estimated as a complex, on the base of the system approach - as well as the linear objects themselves, which represent a complex consisting of the linear object proper and accompanying infrastructure.
Consumer ethnocentrism, cosmopolitanism, product judgment, and foreign product purchase intention: An empirical study in Vietnam
Authors: Thi Ngoc Lan Tran , Thanh Trung Tran
Published: April 2024

This study aims to determine the relationship between consumer ethnocentrism, consumer cosmopolitanism, imported product judgment, and foreign product purchase intention in Vietnam. This paper tries to present its results empirically, which might be helpful in preparing a strategy for Vietnamese customers’ international purchasing behavior to increase competition at retail companies in Vietnam. It uses a questionnaire with a purposive random sampling of 311 customers in Vietnam. Analysis was conducted through a quantitative descriptive analysis, measurement of variable dimensions on the questionnaire using a seven-point Likert scale, and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to test the hypotheses. This study found that imported product judgment, consumer cosmopolitanism, social influence, and perceived behavioral control positively influence foreign product purchase intention, whereas customer ethnocentrism has a negative impact on that intention. The association between consumer cosmopolitanism and foreign product purchase intention is mediated by imported product evaluation and consumer ethnocentrism. At the same time, national identity does not affect consumer ethnocentrism and foreign product purchase intentions. Besides, this study offers some managerial implications for marketers in decisions linked to Vietnamese customers’ international purchasing behavior to increase competition in the domestic market.
AcknowledgmentThe authors express a sincere gratitude to all the participants who generously took part in this research study.
Surfactant protein D as a marker of persistent impairment of the lungs diffusion capacity in the long-term period in patients who had suffered from severe COVID-19
Authors: Abdullaeva G. B. , Kozhevnikova M. V. , Valiulina D. S. , Belenkov Yu. N.
Published: April 2024

Introduction. The long-term consequences of COVID-19 (СOrona VIrus Disease 2019) for the respiratory system represent a socially significant problem. Long-lasting respiratory symptoms and functional changes in individuals who have suffered coronavirus infection justify the need to study pathogenetic mechanisms. There is little study of epithelial biomarkers and their potential role in the development of long-term respiratory complications.

Аim. Тo study the level of the circulating marker surfactant protein-D (SP-D) in patients who suffered severe COVID-19-associated lung damage at 3 and 12 months after the acute form and its relation with indicators of respiratory function.

Materials and methods. The study included 70 patients who were examined at 3 and 12 months after the acute phase of COVID-19, which occurred with severe and extremely severe lung damage. Patients underwent a comprehensive study of respiratory function (spirography, bodyplethysmography and diffusion test), a 6-minute step test with quantitative assessment of shortness of breath, both during exercise and in daily life; the study also determined the serum level of surfactant protein-D.

Results. The results of the study indicate that 57% of patients who have suffered severe COVID-19-associated lung damage remain persistently impaired in the diffusion capacity of the lungs throughout the year. It was found that the level of SP-D was increased in all patients 3 months after the acute phase of the disease, but in the group with reduced DLco this level was significantly higher after 3 and 12 months (469 ng/ml and 295 ng/ml, respectively).

Conclusion. Persistent impairments in the diffusion capacity of the lungs in some patients persist a year after suffering a severe form of COVID-19. Elevated SP-D levels have been found to be associated with decreased lung diffusion capacity. Thus, SP-D can be considered as a potential biomarker of lung injury severity in the long-term period of COVID-19.
Fish detection based on Gather-and-Distribute mechanism Multi-scale feature fusion network and Structural Re-parameterization method
Authors: Zhang Dengyong , Gao Sheng , Deng Bin , Xu Jihan , Xiang Yifei , Gan Maohui , Qu Chaoxiong
Published: April 2024

To solve the problems of localization and identification of fish in the complex fishway environment, improving the accuracy of fish detection, this paper proposes an object detection algorithm YOLORG, and a fishway fish detection dataset (FFDD). The FFDD contains 4,591 images from the web and lab shots and labeled with the LabelIMG tool, covering fish in a wide range of complex scenarios. The YOLORG algorithm, based on YOLOv8, improves the traditional FPN–PAN network into a C2f Multi-scale feature fusion network with a Gather-and-Distribute mechanism, which solves the problem of information loss accompanied by the network in the fusion of feature maps of different sizes. Also, we propose a C2D Structural Re-parameterization module with a rich gradient flow and good performance to further improve the detection accuracy of the algorithm. The experimental results show that the YOLORG algorithm improves the mAP50 and mAP50-95 by 1.2 and 1.8% compared to the original network under the joint VOC dataset, and also performs very well in terms of accuracy compared to other state-of-the-art object detection algorithms, and is able to detect fish in very turbid environments after training on the FFDD.
Impacts of climate change on food system security and sustainability in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Muhitur , Chowdhury Md Monirul Islam , Al Amran Md Iqram Uddin , Malik Karim , Abubakar Ismaila Rimi , Aina Yusuf A. , Hasan Md Arif , Rahman Mohammad Shahedur , Rahman Syed Masiur
Published: April 2024

Climate change poses a significant threat to the security and sustainability of global food systems, particularly in vulnerable regions such as Bangladesh. This paper comprehensively reviews the impact of climate change on food system security and sustainability in Bangladesh. Specifically, it examines the country's food system and, the climatic conditions endangering food systems and associated vulnerabilities. A systematic review methodology was adopted to select the relevant literature, based on predefined inclusion criteria and research questions. To mitigate selection bias, the research team independently screened and evaluated the articles for inclusion in the review process. Our review reveals increasing trends in temperature fluctuations and irregular rainfall occurrences, posing significant challenges in terms of crop management and planning. The occurrence of floods due to extreme rainfall and sea-level rise exacerbates food insecurity in affected areas. Additionally, moderate to severe droughts have been identified in some regions. The paper also evaluates the effectiveness of current adaptation initiatives and the degree of integration among relevant stakeholders. Through this analysis, the paper emphasizes the importance of local climate-change adaptation strategies and stakeholder collaboration in mitigating the adverse impacts of climate-change on food system security.
Enhancing resource allocation in drought mitigation through a group multicriteria sorting model: a case study of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil
Authors: Castro Gabriel de Oliveira , Morais Danielle Costa , Gonçalo Thomas Edson Espindola
Published: April 2024

Drought is a natural phenomenon that poses a significant threat to water resources in affected regions. The detrimental effects of this extreme weather event, regardless of its type, have had an impact, necessitating concrete resource allocation projects to mitigate drought. From this perspective, our research proposes a group multicriteria sorting model to support resource allocation for drought mitigation. A multicriteria sorting model was developed based on the PROMSORT method to assist the government in evaluating 14 municipalities of the Apodi-Mossoró river basin in the Rio Grande do Norte State in Brazil. This model classifies the municipalities into high, moderate, and low-priority categories, enabling targeted attention and allocation of resources for drought mitigation efforts. The research findings demonstrate that the proposed model can effectively support strategic public policies, allocate resources, and facilitate the implementation of appropriate actions, thereby focusing efforts on the cities most severely affected by drought and alleviating the adverse effects of this natural disaster
Machine learning for water demand forecasting: Case study in a Brazilian coastal city
Authors: Filho Jesuino Vieira , Scortegagna Arlan , Vieira Amanara Potykytã de Sousa Dias , Jaskowiak Pablo Andretta
Published: April 2024

Water resources management is crucial for human well-being and contemporary socio-economic development. However, the increasing use of water has led to various problems that affect its quality and availability. To address these issues, accurate forecasting of water consumption is essential for the optimal operation of water collection, treatment, and distribution systems. This study aims to compare four machine learning methods for predicting daily urban water demand in a Brazilian coastal tourist city (Guaratuba – Paraná). Historical data from the city’s water distribution system, spanning from 2016 to 2019 (1,461 measurements in total), were considered along with meteorological and calendar data to conduct the investigation. Three time series cross-validation approaches were considered for each method, thus totaling 12 evaluation settings. All models were subjected to hyperparameter optimization and evaluated using appropriate performance metrics from the literature. Results demonstrate the importance of using nonlinear models to predict short-term water demand, highlighting the problem’s complexity. From the compared models, multilayer perceptron provided the best results. Finally, regardless of the model, the best results were obtained by applying an expanding window time series cross-validation, indicating that the more historical data available, the better, in this particular case.
Oleuropein can Protect the Brain Against Deleterious Effects of Bile Duct Ligation in Male Mice
Authors: Kouhakan Faezeh , Ganjalikhan Sepideh , Sarhadizadeh Alireza , Esmaeilpour Khadijeh , Akbari Khatereh , Jafaripour Leila , Asadi-Shekaari Majid
Published: April 2024

Oleuropein (OP) is a phenolic compound in olives. OP possesses potent antioxidant activity and an extensive spectrum of other pharmacological properties, including antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities. This study investigated the effects of OP on neural injuries caused by bile duct ligation (BDL) in male mice. The mice were randomly allocated to three groups: sham, BDL, and BDL + OP. Neurobehavioral tests histological and biochemical evaluations were accomplished to assess cerebral damage. The results demonstrated that the induction of BDL led to behavioral impairments and a rise in hepatic enzymes, and OP could protect the brain against BDL-induced injuries. OP significantly increased antioxidant enzymes. These results suggested that OP has valuable effects in the mice BDL model, probably due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.