bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of Facebook Accounts with Inauthentic Behavior in Elections: The Romanian Presidential Election Case
Authors: Oprea Bogdan
Published: February 2024

Astroturfing, trolling, bots, false amplifiers and social media accounts with inauthentic behavior are used in online political communication even if they have a real-world dangerous effect on democratic systems. Some of these activities are involving users that are over-proportionally active in relation to the mean. This explanatory research sought to determine whether such hyperactive users are utilized to share political posts to create an impression of popularity for a specific political message and, thus, to influence the recommendation algorithms of social networks in order to increase the exposure of political messages. In this study, I analyzed the most shared posts during the election campaign on the official Facebook pages of the first three ranked candidates in the 2019 Romanian presidential election. The research revealed an average of 18.3% of shares were made by hyperactive users on their own timeline or in different Facebook groups, with users that shared the same post for 69 times. Furthermore, I identified some of the characteristics of hyperactive users’ accounts based on their public social media profile, which may helps understand the specifics of these accounts. The results show that election communication involves activities considered by Facebook to be a practice of „manipulating public opinion“ and of „manipulating political discussion“ (Weedon et al., 2017, p. 5).
Book review of 'Advertising and Consumer Society: A Critical Introduction' (Second Edition), by Nicholas Holm, Routledge, 2023, 224 pages
Authors: Macarov-Burnichi Maria
Published: February 2024

The book titled Advertising and Consumer Society: A Critical Introduction, written by Nicholas Holm, presents itself as an introductory guide into the world of advertising. Written in a semi-informal style, marked with anecdotes, personal experiences and real-life examples from all over the world, the book refers not only to the importance of advertising and its relationship to the consumer, but also to the multiple faces and the intricate inner works within the industry. Since the book is meant to be a preparatory textbook for students, the author having taught this material to his students prior to writing the book, one would expect it to paint an idealistic picture of the advertising world. Instead, Holms diverges significantly from idealistic portrayals. In fact, he effectively critiques the downsides and problems of the advertising world, while also trying to explain them and find possible solutions.
Diagenesis and Migration of Hydrocarbons in the Monterey Formation, Pismo
Syncline, California
Authors: Surdam Ronald C. , Stanley K. O.
Published: February 2024

Kerogen in the Miocene Monterey Formation in the Pismo syncline consists of amorphous material of algal origin. Most of the rocks presently contain 1-5 wt. % total organic carbon. Thermal alteration index determinations and pyrolysis (thermal extract) data suggest that the organic material at the center of the fold is mature, whereas the organic material on the limbs of the fold is immature. The Monterey Formation in this region entered the liquid hydrocarbon window at a present day depth of approximately 1700 meters. The liquid window appears to be coincident with the opal CT to quartz reaction (80 ± 10°C).

Hydrocarbons were expelled from the Monterey rocks deep in the center of the fold and began migrating as a result of microfracturing. The hydrocarbons migrated up into the southwest limb of the fold through macrofractures. This limb of the fold is characterized by brittle dolomitic and opal CT rich rocks that were intensely fractured prior to hydrocarbon migration. The potential reservoirs on this limb of the fold are in fractured Monterey. In contrast, on the northeast limb of the fold Monterey rocks consist of silty and sandy siliceous rocks that tend to be more resistant to fracturing; hydrocarbons migrate up into this limb of the fold through relatively low angle faults and spread into structural traps along the fault in the adjacent Pliocene Pismo Formation through conjugate shears. The potential reservoirs on this limb are in structural traps in the Pismo Formation. A third potential hydrocarbon target is the basal sand in the Pismo Formation; almost everywhere in the fold this unit is highly bituminous.
Risk factors for non-participation in ivermectin and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine mass drug administration for malaria control in the MASSIV trial
Authors: Kositz Christian , Marks Michael , Bradley John , Vasileva Hristina , Dabira Edgard , D'Alessandro Umberto , Mohammed Nuredin , Achan Jane
Published: February 2024

Background: Mass Drug Administration (MDA) has become a mainstay for the control of several diseases over the last two decades. Successful implementation of MDA programs requires community participation and can be threatened by systematic non-participation. Such concerns are particularly pertinent for MDA programmes against malaria, as they require multi-day treatment over several consecutive months. Factors associated with non-participation to the MDA campaign with ivermectin (IVM) and dihydroartemisinin-piperaquine (DHP) implemented within the MASSIV cluster randomized trial were determined.
Methods: Coverage data was extracted from the MASSIV trial study database. We classified a complete month of MDA as receiving all three daily doses of treatment. For both ivermectin and DHP, we used ordinal logistic regression to identify individual and household level variables associated with non-participation.
Results: For ivermectin, 51.5% of eligible participants received all three months of treatment while 30.7% received either one or two complete months. For DHP, 56.7% of eligible participants received all three months of treatment and 30.5% received either one or two complete months. Children aged 5-15 years and adults aged more than 50 years were more likely to receive at least one complete month of MDA than working age adults, both for ivermectin (aOR 4.3, 95% CI 3.51 – 5.28 and aOR of 2.26, 95% CI 1.75 – 2.95) and DHP (aOR 2.47, 95%CI 2.02 – 3.02 and aOR 1.33, 95%CI 1.01 – 1.35), respectively.
Households whose head received a complete month of MDA were more likely to have had a complete month of MDA, both for ivermectin (aOR 1.71, 95%CI 1.35 – 2.14) and for DHP (aOR 1.64, 95%CI 1.33 – 2.04).
Conclusion: Personal and household-level variables were associated with participation in the MDA programme for malaria control. Specific strategies to (increase participation amongst some groups may be important to ensure maximum impact of MDA strategies in achieving malaria elimination.
Trial Registration:
The MASSIV trial is registered under NCT03576313.
Enhancing Upper Extremity Muscle Strength in Individuals with Spinal Cord Injury Using Low-Intensity Blood Flow Restriction Exercise
Authors: Shadgan Babak , Zadeh Mehdi Nouri , Saremi Yekta , Baktash Leila , Lazarevic Stefan
Published: February 2024

Study Design
A randomized experimental design.
Objectives
This study explores the feasibility and effects of low-intensity blood flow restriction (LI-BFR) exercise on forearm muscle strength and function in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI).
Setting
International Collaboration on Repair Discoveries, Vancouver, Canada.
Methods
Ten male and female participants with SCI, aged 18-75, underwent an 8-week LI-BFR exercise program that targeted forearm muscles. Grip strength was the primary outcome measure, and participants also provided qualitative feedback on their experiences.
Results
The study revealed a significant increase in forearm muscle strength among participants in the intervention group who engaged in LI-BFR training, with an average strength gain of 7.5 ± 0.37 kg post 16 exercise sessions (Cohen`s d=-6.32, 95% CI: -8.34, -6.68). In contrast, the control group, following a conventional high-intensity exercise regimen without BFR, showed a more modest strength increase of 4.4 ± 0.68 kg. Additionally, the intervention was well-received, with minimal reported discomfort and high participant satisfaction. A mean Patient's Global Impression of Change (PGIC) score of 2.2 reflected overall improvements in participants' daily activities and health status.
Conclusions
This study highlights the feasibility and efficacy of LI-BFR exercise as a safe method to improve forearm muscle strength in individuals with SCI. The extension of this technique to target additional limb muscles holds promise for advancing muscle rehabilitation in the SCI population. The positive outcomes and high level of participant satisfaction suggest that this innovative method can enhance functional independence and elevate the overall quality of life of this population.
A multi-century perspective on contemporary fire deficit and anomalous fire severity in the southwestern United States
Authors: McClure Emma , Coop Jonathan , Guiterman Christopher , Margolis Ellis , Parks Sean
Published: February 2024

Wildfires in the southwestern United States are increasingly frequent and severe, but whether these trends are beyond historical norms remains contested. We combine dendroecological records, satellite-derived burn severity, and field measures of tree mortality to compare historical (1700-1880) and contemporary (1985-2020) fire regimes at 406 tree-ring fire-scar sites in Arizona and New Mexico. Contemporary fire frequency is over 80% lower than historical levels. Before 1880, fires averaged 0.87 fires/decade (every 11.4 years), followed by over a century without fire at most sites. Since 1985, the same sites averaged only 0.17 fires/decade (every 58.8 years). Fire severity, however, has increased. At 42% of our sites, centuries-old fire-scarred trees recently experienced anonymously lethal fire severity. Suppressed wildfires tended to burn more severely than prescribed burns and managed “fire use” wildfires. These findings support the expanded use of low-severity prescribed and managed fire to restore ecosystem function and resilience to southwestern dry-conifer forests.
Klebsiella LPS O1-antigen prevents complement-mediated killing by inhibiting C9 polymerization
Authors: Masson Frerich M , Káradóttir Salvör , Lans Sjors PA van der , Doorduijn Dennis J , de Haas Carla JC , Rooijakkers Suzan HM , Bardoel Bart W
Published: February 2024

The Gram-negative bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae is an important human pathogen. Its treatment has been complicated by the emergence of multi-drug resistant strains. The human complement system is an important part of our innate immune response that can directly kill Gram-negative bacteria by assembling membrane attack complex (MAC) pores into the bacterial outer membrane. To resist this attack, Gram-negative bacteria can modify their lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Especially the decoration of the LPS outer core with the O-antigen polysaccharide has been linked to increased bacterial survival in serum, but not studied in detail. In this study, we characterized various clinical Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates and show that expression of the LPS O1-antigen correlates with resistance to complement-mediated killing. Mechanistic data reveal that the O1-antigen does not inhibit C3b deposition and C5 conversion. In contrast, we see more efficient formation of C5a, and deposition of C6 and C9 when an O-antigen is present. Further downstream analyses revealed that the O1-antigen prevents correct insertion and polymerization of the final MAC component C9 into the bacterial membrane. Altogether, we show that the LPS O1-antigen is a key determining factor for complement resistance by K. pneumoniae and provide insights into the molecular basis of O1-mediated MAC evasion.
Quantification and Sensitivity Assessment of Chinese Provincial Ecological Compensation in the Perspective of Carbon Deficit Redistribution
Authors: Yan Feng , Pang Jiao , Liu Yue , An Xiaoming , Wang Xingyu , Liu Xin , Shen Lin , Chen Yaheng
Published: February 2024

The ecological compensation mechanism is a tool for managing regional development and promoting the green economy. This paper proposes a revised model for carbon emissions and absorption based on IPCC, then analyses the spatial and temporal variations of carbon emissions, absorption, and deficit in 31 provinces of China from 2001 to 2019. A model was developed to redistribute carbon deficits and compensate for ecological imbalances, with the aim of eliminating background differences between regions. The concept of ecological compensation sensitivity was proposed, and a redundancy analysis (RDA) was conducted to detect possible influencing factors. Results indicate that: (1) The carbon deficits were relatively substantial in the centre and developed coastal regions, which were the subject regions of China's ecological compensation. Meanwhile, the northwest and southwest regions were the object regions of ecological compensation, and the compensated object regions tended to extend towards the southeast. The majority of compensated subject areas are generally less sensitive than compensated object regions. (2) The graph of carbon deficit volume over time shows that China's two carbon targets are closely aligned. The distribution of China's ecological compensation amounts follows the pattern of provincial economic development levels, with higher compensation amounts concentrated in the central and coastal regions. There is a positive correlation between GDP, year, and population size with carbon emission and carbon deficit. Additionally, there is a positive correlation between year, region, and carbon absorption. (3) This compensation model can strongly incentivise the compensation subject area to proactively adjust its economic development model to cope with the significant compensation pressure. Additionally, it can fully encourage the compensation recipient area to continue adhering to the green economic development model. The conclusions of the study hold significant reference value for promoting the development of a green, low-carbon economy. The conclusions of the study hold significant reference value for promoting the development of a green, low-carbon economy.
A Nomogram Model to Predict Non-Retrieval of Short-term Retrievable Inferior Vena Cava Filters Short Title: Risk Factors for Non-retrieval of Retrievable Filters
Authors: Qin Lihao , Gu Xiaocheng , Ni Caifang , Wang Kai , Xue Tongqing , Jia Zhongzhi
Published: February 2024

Objective
To develop and validate a nomogram for predicting non-retrieval of the short-term retrievable inferior vena cava (IVC) filters.
Methods
In this study, univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify predictive factors of short-term retrievable filter non-retrieval, and a nomogram was then established based on these factors. The nomogram was created based on data from a training cohort and validated based on data from a validation cohort. The predictive value of the nomogram was estimated using area under the curve (AUC) and calibration curve analysis (Hosmer-Lemeshow test).
Results
A total of 1321 patients who had undergone placement of short-term retrievable filters (Aegisy or OptEase) were included in the analysis. The overall retrieval rate was. Age, mixed type deep vein thrombosis (DVT) vs peripheral type DVT, active cancer, history of long-term immobilization, VTE was detected in the intensive care unit, active/recurrent bleeding, IVC thrombosis, and history of venous thromboembolism were independent predictive risk factors for non-retrieval of filters. Interventional therapy for DVT, fresh fracture, and interval of ≥ 14 days between filter placement and patient discharge were independent protective factors for non-retrieval of filters. The nomogram based on these factors demonstrated good ability to predict the non-retrieval of filters (training cohort AUC = 0.870; validation cohort AUC = 0.813.
Conclusion
This nomogram demonstrated strong predictive accuracy and discrimination capability. This model may help clinicians identify patients who are not candidates for short-term retrievable filter placement and help clinicians make timely, individualized decisions in filter choice strategies.
Sex-specific migration strategies and underlying physiology contribute to spring arrival protandry in a songbird
Authors: Bojarinova Julia , Demina Irina , Chetverikova Raisa , Babushkina Olga , Tsvey Arseny
Published: February 2024

In spring, many migrating songbirds exhibit protandry (the phenomenon whereby males precede females in arrival at breeding sites). The reed bunting (Emberiza schoeniclus) is a short-distance migrant which expresses a high degree of protandry and combines both nocturnal and diurnal movements during migrations. In experimental conditions, we studied the proximate mechanisms of protandry and compared locomotor behavior between spring and autumn migrations. We assumed that captive behavior is a proxy for the behavior that birds demonstrate in the wild. Combined, the analysis of seasonal patterns and circadian dynamics of locomotor activity suggested that male reed buntings depart from wintering grounds by daytime flights approximately two weeks earlier than females. Later, they develop nocturnal activity, take off shortly before dawn and continue their flight for several hours in the morning. We argue that such behavior allows males to benefit from both the advantage of nocturnal flight and an efficient start of foraging, thereby reducing the stopover duration (by minimizing search/settling costs) and increasing the total migration speed. In contrast, females migrate predominantly at night in spring. Sex-related variation in behavior was accompanied by differences in energetic conditions; males in spring had, on average, lower fat reserves. However, leukocyte profile parameters were similar in males and females. In contrast, in autumn, both sexes display similar levels/dynamics of locomotor activity and fat reserves. Overall, our results describe unique sex-specific migratory behaviour and physiology in reed buntings in spring, which, we assume, contribute to spring arrival protandry in this species.
Factors influencing the professional identity of students in medical university: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Yu Wen , Sun Hong
Published: February 2024

Background: Currently, university students lack in-depth understanding of the diverse study fields which decreases their professional identity. Therefore, strategies aimed at improving students’ professional identity need to be formulated. This study aimed to determine the current factors influencing medical university students' professional identity. The findings of this research will provide ideas for improving the professional identity level of university students.
Methods: students at a medical university in China participated in a survey in 2022. In the first part of the survey, a Professional Identity Questionnaire was used to determine their professional identity level as the dependent variable. In the second part of the survey, four dimensions including personal, family, peer and professional circumstance were investigated as the independent variables. Subsequently, the correlations between factors and professional identity were explored, as well as the degree of influence each factor on professional identity.
Results: The analysis showed that all dimensions affected the professional identity of the students. Students with one of the following characteristics were found having lower professional identity level than others: male, in the graduating year, poor academic performance, change of major against their intention,with poor academic performance, from rural areas, and in poor economic status, students who cannot get along well with their peers and students whose peers had intention to change their majors. All factors of professional circumstance dimension had significantly positive influences on professional identity, with the prospect and status element having the most significant effect.
Conclusions:Students with one of the following characteristics should be paid attention: male, in graduating year, change of major against their intention, with poor academic performance, from rural areas, and in poor economic status. The interpersonal relationship between students and their peers also deserve attention as well as the majors' value, learning environment, training objectives, prospect and status. Several initiatives should be developed and implemented to enhance students’ professional identity according to the above results.
The rejection sensitivity and problematic internet use among medical students: A moderated mediation model involving loneliness and self-control
Authors: Xu Cheng , Qiu Meichai , Jiang xuan , Liao Meiling , Li Lei , Liu Liping , Lu Yu , Hong Youjuan
Published: February 2024

Background
The internet has evolved into an integral facet of the life and educational experience of college students. However, the driving force behind problematic internet use in medical students remains largely unexplored. Based on the cognitive-behavioral model and the affect regulation model of vulnerability, the present study seeks to investigate the underlying mechanism of the association between rejection sensitivity and problematic internet use among medical students.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted in a medical university from March to June, 2023. A total of 435 medical-undergraduate students were investigated using The Tendency to Expect Rejection Scale, Loneliness Scale, Self-control Scale, Problematic Internet Test. Pearson’s correlation analysis was utilized to explore the interrelationships among the variables, additionally, a moderated mediation model was analyzed using Hayes's PROCESS macro.
Results
After controlling for gender, age, and rejection sensitivity could positively predict loneliness (r = 0.36, p < 0.01) and problematic internet use (r = 0.39, p < 0.01), while self-control was negatively correlated with problematic internet use (r = -0.55, p < 0.01). Mediation analyses revealed that loneliness served as a mediator in the link between rejection sensitivity and problematic internet use, with the mediation effect explaining 18.18% of the variance.[SE = 0.02, 95% CI = (0.02, 0.10)]. Moderated mediation analysis indicated that self-control moderated the second stage of the indirect effects in the relationship between rejection sensitivity and problematic internet use.
Conclusion
Loneliness plays a mediating role between rejection sensitivity and problematic internet use, and self-control plays an important moderating role in the effect of loneliness on problematic internet use.
Autoinhibition and Activation Mechanisms for MICAL Monooxygenases in F-actin Disassembly
Authors: Wei Zhiyi , Lin Leishu , Dong Jiayuan , Xu Shun , Xiao Jinman , Niu Fengfeng , Yu Cong
Published: February 2024

MICAL (Molecule Interacting with CasL) proteins represent a unique family of actin regulators crucial for synapse development, membrane trafficking, and cytokinesis. Unlike classical actin regulators, MICAL proteins possess enzymatic activity, catalyzing the oxidation of specific residues within actin filaments to induce robust filament severing. The potent activity of MICAL proteins requires tight control to prevent extensive damage to the actin cytoskeleton. Due to limited structural information on full-length MICAL proteins, the molecular mechanisms governing MICAL autoinhibition and activation remain elusive. Here, we reported the cryo-EM structure of full-length MICAL1, unveiling a head-to-tail interaction that allosterically blocks enzymatic activity through the binding of the C-terminal Rab-binding domain (RBD) to the N-terminal monooxygenase domain. The structure also reveals the assembly of C-terminal domains via a tripartite interdomain interaction, stabilizing the inhibitory conformation of the RBD. Our structural, biochemical, and cellular analyses elucidate the transition from the autoinhibited to activated conformation of MICAL1 in response to Rab8-subfamily GTPase. Dual Rab-binding to the RBD induces the conformation rearrangement of the RBD and synergistically promotes the autoinhibition-to-activation transition, revealing intricate activity regulation mechanisms for MICAL proteins. Furthermore, our mutagenesis study of MICAL3 suggests a conserved autoinhibition and activation mechanism among MICAL proteins.
Investigations on the Biosorption of Nickel Using Tea Leaves and Tea Fibre (Camellia Sinensis) as Adsorbents: Thermodynamics, Isotherms and Kinetics
Authors: Etim Emmanuel E. , Yakubu Shedrach , Terhembe Aniho , Moses Liberty Joshua
Published: February 2024

The adsorption behavior of tea leaves and tea fibre (Camellia sinensis) as low-cost adsorbent with respect to nickel was investigated to justify its usage in waste water treatment. A good number of adsorption constrains were investigated which provides information about the effect of pH value, temperature, dose of the prepared adsorbent, time of contact as well as the starting concentration of the simulated system on the sorption process itself.From the result of these studies, these constrains aforementioned, shows increases steadily with increase in the parameters until desorption set in thereby influenced the adsorption process while temperature decreases with increase in temperature. The kinetics was best described by the pseudo second-order which gave the most convincing fit. The Langmuir isotherm give R2 values of 0.990 and 0.985 for tea leaves and tea fibre and Freundlich isotherm gives 0.985 and 0.980 values for tea leaves and tea fibre correspondingly with the Langmuir isotherm having higher R2 values considered the most suitable. In the long run, these process was considered to be endothermic, spontaneous and of cause thermodynamically feasible hence, the adsorbent was considered fit for waste water treatment.
Workforce Characteristics for Psychological Care in Public Treatment Centers for Hiv in Mexico
Authors: Marín-Navarrete Rodrigo , Sánchez-Domínguez Ricardo , Morales-Carcaño Anette , Ponce-Ramos Marisol , Magis-Rodríguez Carlos , Saracco-Álvarez Ricardo
Published: February 2024

Introduction. The participation of psychologists in the therapeutic care of people living with HIV (PLWHA) is not clear, since their functions are only focused on accompaniment and not on pharmacological and therapeutic adherence, and care is only provided in case the patient requires it and is not part of the treatment scheme for HIV control.
Objectives. To describe the professional characteristics of psychologists who provide services to PLWHA in specialized public treatment centers, and to determine which variables are linked to professional backgrounds that are associated with good clinical practice.
Methods. Through an exploratory, cross-sectional, and descriptive study, an online survey was applied to inquire about the professional profile, current practices and clinical activities performed.
Results. Most psychologists have several years of experience working with PLWHA, however, almost half of the psychology staff do not have any formal certification, nor have they received training in either psychopathology or HIV issues in the last year. Having clinical certification and training in substance use and mental health was identified as increasing the likelihood of performing most activities related to best practices.
Discussion and Conclusions. The staff has experience in HIV, in addition to continuing education courses, although there is a need for an ongoing training and certification plan to homogenize the practices of the entire staff of psychologists.
Ecological and health risk assessment of potential toxic elements in surface sediments: Gediz River, Türkiye
Authors: Culha Saniye Turk , Ergen Şeyda Fikirdeşici , Sömek Haşim
Published: February 2024

The Gediz River, which flows through many cities and connects to the Aegean Sea, has an important economic potential for the Aegean Region. Given this importance, a detailed assessment of potential toxic elements (PTEs) in the river sediment is required. 18 PTEs (Co, Cr, Cu, Mn, Ni, Fe, Al, Se, Mo, Sr, Mg, Ag, Pb, Zn, As, Hg and Cd) were collected from 13 stations along the Gediz River covering three basins to determine the level of pollution and ecological risk. For pollution assessment in sediments, contamination factor (CF), pollution load index (PLI), geographical accumulation index (Igeo), enrichment factor (EF) were analyzed. Potential impacts of PTEs in the sediment matrix of the Gediz River on human health (Potentatial Ecological risk factor (Eir), Potentatial ecological risk index (PERI), hazard quotient (HQ), hazard index (HI), lifetime cancer risk (LCR) were investigated in detail. The mean concentrations of the majority of the PTEs exceeded the corresponding background values, indicating that the highest pollution load was in the downstream basin. Based on the PTEs spatial distributions and pollution indices, the Gediz River was found to have high accumulation of As, Cu, Cr, Ni and Zn in the sediments. In addition, HQing and HI values were greater than 1 for As, Co, Cr, Mn, Ni and Pb in all three basins. It was determined that As and Cr had a high effect in terms of LCR value. Correlation analysis and principal component analysis were also applied to explain the main sources of PTEs formation.
The impact of individualized design of cervical LEEP surgery on endocervical margin status and disease prognosis
Authors: Liu Tingyan , Wang Weijia , Liao Huiming , Zhao Yun , Mai Bi , Hu Guiying , Luo Xiping
Published: February 2024

Aim
This study aimed to explore the relationship between individualized design of cervical loop electrosurgical excision procedure (LEEP ) and endocervical margin status as well as prognosis of cervical lesions.
Methods
A total of 151 outpatients dignosed with cervical high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion(HSIL)in Guangdong Women and Children Hospital from January 2015 to December 2019 were included in this study. From the perspective of a patient's fertility requirments, the colposcopist conducted individualized LEEP with them. The pathologic features of the endocervical margins, presence of cervical stenosis or adhesion, and HPV test results within 2 years after the surgery were documented.
Results
1.Endocervical margin positive rate of LEEP is13.25%(20/151). There were significant differences observed in design of LEEP between the patients with different reproductive requirements, although no statistically difference was detected in endocervical margin positivity rates (P = 0.979)with them.2.Univariate logistic regression analysis revealed that cervical cytology (P = 0.040), the number of quadrants involved by acetowhite epithelium (P = 0.032), and lesion grade of biopsy (P = 0.028) were significantly associated with endocervical margin .Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that quadrants involved by acetowhite epithelium (P = 0.034) and the grade of biopsy(P = 0.020)were independent risk factors for positive endocervical margin. 3.HPV clearance rate is 84.77% in 2 years after surgery.There are no significant differences with different endocervical margin status and HPV recheck results (≤ 6 months, 7–12 months, and 12-24months) (P = 1.000, 0.984, 0.382);4.Approximately 58.9%, 80.1%, and 86.8% of lesions can be removed with cone lengths ≤ 1cm,≤1.5cm, and ≤ 2.0cm, respectively.
Conclusion
Individualized LEEP surgical design is feasible and effective in clinical practice.Women with fertility requirements will benefit even more.
Deterministic and Probabilistic Short-Distance Teleportation of an Arbitrary Three-Qubit State
Authors: Mandal Manoj Kumar , Choudhury Binayak S. , Saha Plaban
Published: February 2024

Teleportation across short distances has become relevant in view of some recent developments in quantum technology. The advantage here is that certain auxiliary qubits can be accessed and utilized by both the sender and the receiver. Such act reduces the requirement of the number of qubits in the entangled quantum channel which would have been otherwise necessary. In this paper we present a short-distance teleportation protocol by which an arbitrary three-qubit state can be transferred with the help of auxiliary qubits and a maximally entangled Bell-State. In the second part of the paper we introduce a probabilistic short-distance protocol for the same arbitrary three-qubit state by using a non-maximally entangled Bell-state. The success probability of the protocol is calculated and its relation with the first protocol is discussed. We presented a circuit diagram for the first protocol and execute it in the IBM-QE platform.
iGLOX: An Optical Sensing Device for EpilepsyRe-occurrence Prediction using Glucose and Spo2 monitoring
Authors: Shukla Urvashi P.
Published: February 2024

Recurrent epileptic seizures are a neurological condition known as epilepsy thatcan be unpredictable and significantly affect a person’s day-to-day life. Despitevarious anti-epileptic medicines, approximately one out of every three individuals has regular seizures. The paper presents an optical sensing device iGLOX,an intelligent glucoximeter for continuous blood glucose and SpO2 monitoring.An Near Infra-Red (NIR) optical sensor of 940 nm wavelength with a higherglucose absorption peak and two wavelengths, 660 nm and 880 nm, for SpO2detection are used to predict recurrent seizure episodes. Blood glucose levelsare calculated using the variation in NIR light intensity that the photodetectorreceives after it penetrates the finger. The blood with oxygen is significantly moreabsorbent of light at NIR wavelengths compared to blood without oxygen. Oxygenated haemoglobin absorbs more infra-red light and transmits less red light.More red light is absorbed by deoxygenated haemoglobin, but less infra-red lightcan pass through. The computing device then determines the ratio between themeasurements of red and infra-red light (which corresponds to the ratio betweenoxygenated and deoxygenated haemoglobin), which helps to find SpO2 values.The combination of glucose value and oxygen value can be an important factorwhich helps for the early epilepsy seizures detection. The proposed device hasexcellent accuracy with only 9% error in glucose prediction and only 2% in Sp02estimation.
Lactic acid bacteria strains isolated from Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) tubers as potential probiotic candidates
Authors: Iraporda Carolina , Rubel Irene A. , Manrique Guillermo D. , Abraham Analía G.
Published: February 2024

The search for probiotic candidates is an area that accompanies the world trend of development of novel probiotic strains and new products. In recent years, unconventional sources of potential probiotic bacteria have been studied. Furthermore, nowadays there has been a growing interest in non-dairy probiotic products and fermented plant-based foods, which has led to the development of probiotic foods currently being presented as a research priority for the food industry. The aim of this work was to evaluate the probiotic potential of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) isolated from Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) tubers. The results proved that the selected isolated LAB strains exhibited a high survival rate in the simulated gastrointestinal treatment, with non-hemolytic nor DNAse activity and antibiotic sensitivity. The isolated strains also showed antimicrobial activity against pathogen microorganisms, due to their acidification capacity. The molecular identification of the bacilli strains showed a high similarity with the genus Lentilactobacillus and, within this genus, with the species kosonis and curieae. Hence, these strains revealed potential probiotic in vitro characteristics that position them to be used in plant-based functional food.
Efficient and Realistic Stochastic Simulation of the Dynamics of Epidemic Processes on Complex Networks
Authors: Kuryliak Yulian , Emmerich Michael , Dosyn Dmytro
Published: February 2024

This article investigates the impact of the structure of the contact network on the dynamics of epidemic outbreaks, particularly focusing on the peak count of infected nodes (PCIN). The height of the PCIN is crucial in determining the maximum operational capacity of intensive care units (ICUs). Postponing the peak infection count is vital to ensure the preparedness of the ICUs.
To facilitate this objective, we have developed an open-source Python-based analytical dashboard. This dashboard uses a continuous-time Markov chain model (CTMC model) that provides a realistic prediction of the dynamic behavior of the epidemic process given the structure of the contact network and infection rates.To make stochastic simulations scalable, we introduce a fast simulation technique. Our method is based on an adaptation of Gillespie's Stochastic Simulation Algorithm, and it is specifically exploiting the sparseness of the state-transition matrix. This approach effectively counters the exponential increase in population-based state spaces, which typically arises from a conventional implementation of Gillespie's algorithm, especially as the number of nodes escalates. Additionally, the dashboard is capable of simulating stochastic trajectories of an epidemic across various network topologies and identifying, as well as graphically illustrating, prevalent infection pathways of the virus propagation.
Employing the dashboard simulations, we conduct an analysis of how network topology influences outbreak dynamics and the PCIN. This analysis is performed using random graph models that represent various complex network topologies. These include Erdős-Rényi, Watts-Strogatz, Barabási-Albert and complete graph (clique) models, with node counts ranging from 500 to 10,000. We graphically represent infection pathways and scrutinize interpretable graph characteristics, such as average path length and clustering coefficient. These features help to systematically understand the influence of network topology on the PCIN. The findings of this study offer valuable information and could guide the development of precise intervention strategies for effective outbreak management.
Stock assessment using Bayesian state-space surplus production models: the case of bonga shad, Ethmalosa fimbriata (Bowdich, 1825), in the Eastern Central Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Konoyima Komba Jossie , Mansaray Amidu , Zhu Jiangfeng
Published: February 2024

Ethmalosa fimbriata is a crucial fish classified as either fully exploited or overfished, requiring closer monitoring. The Committee for Eastern Central Atlantic Fisheries (CECAF) manages shared stocks in the Eastern Central Atlantic Ocean (ECAO). CECAF’s reported CPUE (1995–2017) and archived regional catch data (1970–2021) in the FAO Fishstatj database were used in this study. The objectives were to evaluate the northern E. fimbriata stock south of ECAO and conduct convergence diagnostics of input data using Bayesian state-space surplus production models (SPMs). The applied SPMs CMSY++ (catch-only), AMSY (CPUE-only), BSM, and JABBA (comparing Schaefer, Fox, and Pella-Tomlison functions). The results may help dispel uncertainty about its state in the region. All models produced robust diagnostic results and a reasonable fit to the data, with significant improvement in posterior perceptions from prior knowledge at very low variance ratios (PPVR < 0.3). The Schaefer model in JABBA showed a better prediction effect on the data (RMSE = 16.9%, DIC = -382.7) than the Fox (RMSE = 17%, DIC = -382.4) and Pella-Tomlinson (RMSE = 17%, DIC = -382) models. All the SPMs suggested that the current fishing mortality rate of the assessed stock has either reached or exceeded the FMSY and that the biomass level has either fallen below or approached the BMSY. The Schaefer model in JABBA predicted a catch limit of 100,000 tons, effective in 2024. By implication, the assessed stock may be unsustainable, requiring catch limits. The Schaefer model proved most effective for evaluating the study species.
Pharmacological modulation of the cytosolic oscillator affects glioblastoma cell biology
Authors: Wagner Paula M , Guido Mario E
Published: February 2024

The circadian system is a conserved time-keeping machinery that regulates a wide range of processes such as sleep/wake, feeding/fasting, and activity/rest cycles to coordinate behavior and physiology. Circadian disruption can be a contributing factor in the development of metabolic diseases, inflammatory disorders, and higher risk of cancer. Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive grade 4 brain tumor that is resistant to conventional therapies and has a poor prognosis after diagnosis, with a median survival of only 12–15 months. GBM cells kept in culture were shown to contain a functional circadian oscillator. In seeking more efficient therapies with lower side effects, we evaluated the pharmacological modulation of the circadian clock by targeting the cytosolic kinases glycogen synthase kinase-3 (GSK-3) and casein kinase ε/δ (CK1ε/δ) with specific inhibitors (CHIR99022 and PF670462, respectively), the cryptochrome protein stabilizer (KL001), or circadian disruption after Per2 knockdown expression in GBM-derived cells. CHIR99022-treated cells had a significant effect on cell viability, clock protein expression, migration, and cell cycle distribution. Moreover, cultures exhibited higher levels of reactive oxygen species and alterations in lipid droplet content after GSK-3 inhibition compared to control cells. The combined treatment of CHIR99022 with temozolomide was found to improve the effect on cell viability compared to temozolomide therapy alone. Per2 disruption affected both GBM migration and cell cycle progression. Overall, our results suggest that pharmacological modulation or molecular clock disruption severely affects glioblastoma cell biology.
Analysis of shear creep properties of wood via modified Burger models and the off-axis compression test method
Authors: Shimazaki Kanon , Ando Kosei
Published: February 2024

In this study, the Burger model combining the Maxwell and Voight–Kelvin model units as well as modified mechanical models were employed to analyze the shear creep mechanism of wood. Off-axis compression tests were conducted on Japanese cypress specimens, and a mechanical analysis of the shear creep mechanism was performed. First, the measured creep compliance curves [JTL(t)] were fitted using the Burger model, which is a typical model that explains the creep behavior of wood. Furthermore, three modified Burger models with non-Newtonian dashpots were proposed to explain the measured data more accurately: model 1 — only the dashpot in the permanent strain unit is non-Newtonian; model 2 — both dashpots are non-Newtonian; and model 3 — only the dashpot in the delayed elastic strain unit is non-Newtonian. The results showed that the average values of the coefficients of determination of the Burger model and models 1, 2, and 3 were 0.940±0.061, 0.979±0.034, 0.978±0.024, and 0.889±0.132, respectively. The number of specimens that could be fitted with a tolerance error of 0.1% was 43 out of 50 with the Burger model, 45 with model 1, 25 with model 2, and 45 with model 3. However, the Burger model exhibited large discrepancies between the theoretical and measured values, model 2 could not be used to explain several specimens, and model 3 exhibited a delayed elastic strain behavior that was inconsistent with the definition. Therefore, we conclude that model 1 is the most appropriate for studying the shear creep behavior of wood.
Quantum-level machine learning calculations to predict the PES of Selegiline
Authors: Shirani Hossein , Hashemianzadeh Seyed Majid
Published: February 2024

Many drug molecules contain functional groups, resulting in a torsional barrier corresponding to rotation around the bond linking the fragments. In medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences, inclusive of drug design studies, the exact calculation of the potential energy surface of these molecular torsions is extremely important and precious. Machine learning, including deep learning, is currently one of the most rapidly evolving tools in computer-aided drug discovery and molecular simulations. In this work, we used ANI-1x neural network potential as a quantum-level machine learning to predict the PESs of the Selegiline antiparkinsonian drug molecule. Also, DFT calculations at the wB97X/6-31G(d) level of theory have been used to study the structural parameters and vibrational normal modes of the Selegiline molecule. We succeeded in calculating the vibrational frequencies, electronic energy and optimization of the molecular structure of the Selegiline using the ANI-1x dataset in a very short computing cost. From this perspective, we expect the ANI-1x dataset applied in this work to be appreciably efficient and effective in computational structure-based drug design studies.
Ceftazidime-Avibactam Use in Children Admitted in Pediatric Intensive Care Units
Authors: SILVA ANDRE RICARDO ARAUJO DA , QUIJADA RAFAEL
Published: February 2024

Purpose: Ceftazidime-Avibactam (CAZ-AVI) is one of the new antibiotics available to treat infections due to carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. Our aim was to describe CAZ-AVI treatments in children admitted in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs).
Methods: We conducted a retrospective descriptive study in two PICUS of Rio de Janeiro city, Brazil, between January 2020 and January 2024. We included children between 0 and 18 years that used CAZ-AVI for more than 24 hours. Duration of CAZ-AVI therapy, previous healthcare-associated infections and carbapenem use, length of stay and outcomes in 30 days. All treatments were previously discussed with an infectious disease specialist.
Results: CAZ-AVI was used in 37 patients. Median of age was 28 months, 17 (45.9%) were male. Median time from admission until the initial presciption of CAZ-AVI was 39.9 days (variation between 1-138 days). Thirty-four (91.9%) children had at least one comorbidity at admission, 34/37 (91.9%) used at least one invasive device previously CAZ-AVI prescription, 33/37 (89.2%) used carbapenem before and 15 (40.5%) had a HAI before CAZ-AVI use. The mean time of use was 11 days (variation 1 to 22 days). Gram-negative bacteria were isolated in cultures of 12/37 (32.4%) patients, in the 24h before presciption or on the day of prescription. Mortality in 30 days was 14/37 (37.8%).
Conclusion: We concluded that almost all patients that used CAZ-AVI were critically ill children, with multiple comorbidities, previous use of carbapenem and high rate of mortality.
Chemical surface densification of sugar maple through Michael addition reaction
Authors: Akbari Vahideh , Vanslambrouck Stéphanie , Landry Veronic
Published: February 2024

Wood densification is a technique to enhance wood density and hardness, presenting a promising solution to expand wood use across various applications. However, current densification methods have cost and environmental impact limitations. This project introduces a potential environmentally friendly approach involving surface chemical densification through in-situ polymerization, using carbon Michael addition reaction between biobased acrylate and malonate monomers. This reaction, conducted in mild conditions with low energy and solvent consumption, aims to enhance wood densification while minimizing environmental impact. Various malonate-acrylate systems were formulated, and were optimized based on their viscosity, conversion rate, glass transition temperature, crosslinking density, and hardness. Then, sugar maple wood samples were densified with the most effective formulations. Monomers with lower viscosity demonstrated higher level of chemical retention. Density profile and penetration depth were also higher for the samples impregnated with lower viscosity formulations, as confirmed by X-Rray densitometer and scanning electron microscopy. Confocal Raman spectroscopy confirmed that formulations successfully filled lumens and vessels without reacting with the cell wall components. The brinell hardness was used to determine the hardness of natural and densified woods. One-way ANOVA data analysis showed a significant increase in hardness of densified samples compared to untreated wood; however, based on TUKEY Anova analysis, no noticeable difference was reported between impregnated samples with different formulations. Overall, results showed the potential effectiveness of the Michael addition reaction in wood impregnation.