bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pemodelan Gerak Menggelinding Pada Lintasan Roller Coaster Sederhana
Authors: Wijayanto Mirda Prisma , Saputra Aji
Published: October 2024

Roller coaster merupakan salah satu jenis wahana permainan berupa kereta yang digerakkan dengan kecepatan tinggi pada lintasan berkelok-kelok dan memiliki ketinggian yang berbeda di atas permukaan tanah. Salah satu masalah yang sering dialami oleh roller coaster adalah terjadi kecelakaan dengan terlemparnya kereta dari lintasan ketika meluncur dengan kecepatan tinggi, seperti yang terjadi pada 14 April 2024 di Taman Kyai Langgeng Eco Park. Pada penelitian ini, kami mempelajari pemodelan gerak menggelinding pada lintasan roller coaster sederhana yang dimodelkan sebagai tiga lintasan setengah lingkaran dengan jari-jari 2R, R, dan R yang terhubung satu sama lain. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menentukan syarat ketinggian awal lintasan agar kereta tidak terlempar setelah melewati ujung lintasan, menghitung total waktu yang dibutuhkan untuk berhenti, dan mensimulasikan fungsi posisi dan energi mekanik sistem roller coaster terhadap waktu. Berdasarkan hasil perhitungan didapatkan bahwa syarat ketinggian awal lintasan agar kereta yang dimodelkan sebagai bola pejal tidak terlempar setelah melewati ujung lintasan adalah , dan waktu total yang diperlukan bola hingga berhenti adalah .  Berdasarkan hasil simulasi grafik energi mekanik terhadap waktu, didapatkan bahwa peristiwa dinamika gerak menggelinding bola pejal pada lintasan roller coaster sederhana memenuhi hukum kekekalan energi.
PEMANFAATAN TEKNOLOGI INFORMASI PADA SEKOLAH MENENGAH ATAS DI BELINYU
Authors: Andry Johanes Fernandes , Lee Francka Sakti , Purnomo Yunianto , Christianto Kevin , Mulyo Jonathan Riady , Putra Rakassiwi Ayudharma
Published: October 2024

The implementation of infrastructure and development of information technology (IT) services in educational environments such as schools and campuses plays an important role in supporting quality learning experiences. Regarding the introduction of IT infrastructure and service development in the educational environment. IT infrastructure covers various aspects such as providing hardware and software to meet educational needs, providing a reliable communications network, and ensuring data and information security. Services provided include training for teachers in the use of learning technology, technical support for students and staff, as well as implementation of related policies. With the right infrastructure, students and lecturers can access learning resources efficiently and interact in a technology-integrated learning environment. This service also plays an important role in increasing the technological literacy of students and teachers and ensuring the smooth operation of systems in educational environments. The services provided at schools can have a positive impact on improving the quality of education, preparing students to face the challenges of the digital world, and creating an inclusive and innovative learning environment. A holistic and coordinated implementation approach and ongoing support from all stakeholders will be key to achieving this goal.
Keadilan (Sosial) dalam Perspektif Teologi Biblika
Authors: Kristanto Billy
Published: October 2024

Perjuangan untuk menghadirkan keadilan sosial kadang dicurigai sebagai bentuk marxisme kebudayaan. Apakah pandangan seperti ini representatif dari perspektif teologi Kristen? Tentu, jawaban yang diberikan akan tergantung dari pemahaman kita tentang keadilan sosial itu sendiri. Dengan begitu, kita perlu melihat beberapa bagian Kitab Suci untuk mendapat gambaran yang lebih seimbang tentang hal ini.
Evolving Patient-Centred Therapies for Metastatic NSCLC
Authors: OPEN Health Scientific Communications
Published: October 2024

The metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (mNSCLC) treatment landscape has vastly expanded over the past two decades as a result of advancements in biomarker testing. However, unmet needs remain both in terms of treatment options for some patient groups, and patient support throughout the treatment journey. In this symposium, Jarushka Naidoo, Consultant Medical Oncologist, Beaumont RCSI Cancer Centre, Dublin, Ireland; Terri Conneran, KRAS Kickers, Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Luis Paz-Ares, Chair of the Medical Oncology Department, Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre, Madrid, Spain; and Alexander Drilon, Chief of Early Drug Development and Thoracic Oncology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, USA, focused on patient-centric approaches to mNSCLC treatment, starting with a patient and patient advocacy group perspective on what patients want from their care team during their treatment journey. The panel also discussed both immuno-oncology (I-O) monotherapy and combination therapy, including dual I-O therapies for patients with programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) tumour expression <1%, as well as the treatment landscape for KRASG12C-mutated mNSCLC, and ongoing trials of KRAS-targeted agents. In addition, the latest data on tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) for patients with alterations in ROS1 and NTRK genes were discussed, focusing on next-generation TKIs. Finally, the panel discussed patient cases, taking into account specific considerations and how to best approach treatment decisions.
ULUSLARARASI HAVA YOLU İŞLETMELERİNİN FİNANSAL PERFORMANSLARININ TOPSİS YÖNTEMİ İLE DEĞERLENDİRİLMESİ
Authors: Gün Selçuk , Ölçen Olcay
Published: October 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı, whistleblowing kavramının önemini ortaya koymak, mevcut bilgi birikimini görünür kılmak, bu alana katkıda bulunacak gelecekteki araştırmalar için bir yol haritası çizmek ve whistleblowing üzerine yapılan yayınların bibliyometrik profilini ortaya çıkarmaktır. Bu amaç doğrultusunda Web of Science Core Collection (WOS) veri tabanında, başlığında, özetinde veya anahtar kelimelerinde “whistleblowing” ifadesini içeren çalışmalar taranmıştır. Herhangi bir yıl kısıtlaması yapılmamış, dil olarak sadece İngilizce yayınlar ve WOS kategorisi olarak Ethics (Etik), Business (İşletme), Management (Yönetim), Business Finance (İşletme Finansmanı), Public Administration (Kamu Yönetimi), Economics (Ekonomi), Political Science (Siyaset Bilimi), Nursing (Hemşirelik), Industrial Relations Labor (Endüstriyel İlişkiler ve İşgücü), Social Science Interdiciplinary (Disiplinlerarası Sosyal Bilimler) adlı 10 alan seçilmiştir. Bu kısıtlamalar sonucunda toplam 704 yayından oluşan veri setine ulaşılmıştır. Elde edilen verilerle R yazılımı kullanılarak bibliyometrik bir analiz gerçekleştirilmiştir. Analizler, whistleblowing ile ilgili yayınların, kaynakların, yazarların, ülkelerin, anahtar kelimelerin yıl, atıf ve sıklık kriterlerine ilişkin performanslarını ortaya koymuştur. Çalışma ayrıca konu çerçevesinde oluşan kavramsal, entellektüel ve sosyal yapıları da görünür kılmıştır. Araştırma sonuçlarının whistleblowing konusunda çalışma yapan araştırmacılara konunun ana hatlarını, konuyla ilgili eğilimleri ve yayınlanan en önemli dergi ile makaleleri göstermesi, kurumların, ülkelerin ve yazarların kavramla ilgili bilimsel yayın performanslarını değerlendirmesi, birbirini tekrar eden araştırmaların önüne geçilmesi ve literatürdeki araştırma boşluğunu gidermeye çalışması açısından faydalı olacağı düşünülmektedir.
BIG DATA AND AMOEBA ORGANIZATIONS: INNOVATIVE MANAGEMENT IN DECISION MAKING PROCESSES
Authors: Yazıcı Ayşe Meriç , Öztırak Mesut
Published: October 2024

This study examines the interaction between big data and amoeba organisations and addresses innovative management in decision-making processes. In the study, the impact of big data on business processes and the structural characteristics of amoeba organisations are discussed in detail. Furthermore, the integration of big data into decision-making processes in amoeba organisations and how this integration interacts with innovation and technological developments are examined. How innovative management strategies can be applied in this context and the impact of these strategies in organisations are analysed in detail. The study aims to make the interaction of big data and amoeba in the decision-making processes of organisations more understandable. Challenges and solutions are also discussed and suggestions are made for future work in this area.
Note on the radical inflation in the estimates of error variance in measurement models
Authors: Metsämuuronen Jari
Published: October 2024

This note discusses the radical technical inflation in error variance and the related standard error of test scores from both conceptual and empirical viewpoints. This technical inflation arises as a direct consequence of the technical underestimation of item-score correlation by the product–moment coefficient of correlation (PMC), which is embedded in the traditional estimators of reliability such as coefficients alpha, theta, omega, or rho (maximal reliability). Specifically, in educational settings where compilations usually include both easy and difficult items, the estimate by PMC may substantially deviate from the true association between an item and the score. Consequently, the use of traditional estimators of reliability leads to technically inflated estimates of standard errors, as the error variance related to these traditional measurement models is significantly inflated, resulting in deflated reliability estimates. In educational testing, employing deflation-corrected standard errors, calculated using deflation-corrected reliability estimators, would provide a more accurate measure of the test score’s true precision.
Deep learning enabled exercise monitoring system for sustainable online education of future teacher-trainers
Authors: Omarov Nurlan , Omarov Bakhytzhan , Mamutov Quwanishbay , Kissebayev Zhanibek , Anarbayev Almas , Tastanov Adilbay , Yessirkepov Zhandos
Published: October 2024

Introduction

In recent years, the importance of effective training methods for future physical education teacher-trainers has grown significantly, particularly in the context of online education.

Methods

This research introduces a pioneering Deep Learning Enabled Exercise Monitoring System aimed at enhancing the online education experience for these trainers. The study employs a skeleton-based approach utilizing the PoseNet model to monitor and provide real-time feedback on physical exercises such as pull-ups, push-ups, sit-ups, squats, and bicep workouts. The system achieves a remarkable accuracy rate of 99.8% by analyzing key skeletal points extracted from video frames, addressing the challenge of ensuring correct exercise execution without physical supervision–a common issue in remote learning environments.

Results

To validate the system’s effectiveness, data was collected through a series of controlled experiments involving various exercises. The system’s design focuses on low-resource requirements, making it accessible and sustainable for diverse educational contexts.

Discussion

The findings demonstrate the system’s potential to revolutionize online physical education by offering a balance of technological innovation and educational utility. This research not only elevates the quality of training for future educators but also contributes to the broader field of sustainable digital education technologies.
Structuring of particle-associated bacterial communities along the extracellular polymeric substance gradient of sinking and suspended particles in an oligotrophic, subtropical region of the western North Pacific Ocean
Authors: Ebihara Akiko , Fukuda Hideki , Yamada Yosuke , Yokokawa Taichi , Miki Takeshi , Nagata Toshi
Published: October 2024

Extracellular polymeric substances, such as transparent exopolymer particles (TEP) composed of acidic polysaccharides, are important particulate organic carbon (POC) components of marine environments that affect particle dynamics and ocean carbon export. However, how polymeric substances interact with and shape bacterial communities associated with marine particles is poorly understood. This study investigated whether the composition of particle-associated bacterial communities differs between sinking and suspended particles, which differ in their polymeric substance contents, in the upper water column of the subtropical, oligotrophic Kuroshio region. Bacterial taxa likely involved in polymer degradation (Alphaproteobacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, and Bacteroidia) were enriched on sinking particles with a lower TEP: POC ratio, indicating that bacterial degradation of polymeric substances promotes particle sinking by removing positively buoyant polymers. By contrast, suspended particles were increasingly enriched for Bdellovibrionota and Desulfobacterota as the TEP: POC ratio increased. These taxa, which include predatory microbes, seem to prefer polymer-rich environments with a high density of potential prey. Planctomycetota were not significantly related to the TEP: POC ratio, indicating their broad niche breadth on particles’ polymeric substance contents. The results suggest that the bacterial niche differentiation associated with the particle polymeric-substance gradient shapes bacterial communities in a subtropical ocean.
Transcriptomic analysis reveals the mechanism underlying salinity-induced morphological changes in Skeletonema subsalsum
Authors: Hu Jingwen , Zheng Ya , Yang Shuang , Yang Lin , You Qingmin , Wang Quanxi
Published: October 2024

Diatom cell walls are diverse and unique, providing the basis for species identification and supporting the ecological and economic value of diatoms. However, these important structures sometimes change in response to environmental fluctuations, especially under salt adaptation. Although studies have shown that salinity induces morphological plasticity changes in diatom cell walls, most research has focused on physiological responses rather than molecular mechanisms. In this study, Skeletonema subsalsum was cultured under four salinity conditions (0, 3, 6, 12). Through morphological and physiological methods, we found that salinity increased the cell diameter, protrusion lengths, distance between adjacent cells (DBCs), and nanopore size, while reducing cell height and silicification degree. To further investigate the mechanism underlying morphological changes in S. subsalsum, complementary transcriptome analysis was performed. In total, 20,138 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified among the four treatments. Among them, 231 DEGs were screened and found to be closely associated with morphological changes, of which 107 were downregulated and 124 were upregulated. The findings demonstrated that elevated salinity inhibited silicon transport and deposition via downregulating the expression of DEGs involved in functions including chitin metabolism, putrescine metabolism, and vesicle transport, resulting in reduced silicon content and cell height. Increased salinity promoted the expression of DEGs related to microtubules (MTs), actin, and ubiquitin, which synchronously induced morphological changes. These findings provide a more comprehensive understanding of the salt tolerance of algae and a foundation for future studies on cell wall morphogenesis.
Adaptive rewiring: a general principle for neural network development
Authors: Li Jia , Bauer Roman , Rentzeperis Ilias , van Leeuwen Cees
Published: October 2024

The nervous system, especially the human brain, is characterized by its highly complex network topology. The neurodevelopment of some of its features has been described in terms of dynamic optimization rules. We discuss the principle of adaptive rewiring, i.e., the dynamic reorganization of a network according to the intensity of internal signal communication as measured by synchronization or diffusion, and its recent generalization for applications in directed networks. These have extended the principle of adaptive rewiring from highly oversimplified networks to more neurally plausible ones. Adaptive rewiring captures all the key features of the complex brain topology: it transforms initially random or regular networks into networks with a modular small-world structure and a rich-club core. This effect is specific in the sense that it can be tailored to computational needs, robust in the sense that it does not depend on a critical regime, and flexible in the sense that parametric variation generates a range of variant network configurations. Extreme variant networks can be associated at macroscopic level with disorders such as schizophrenia, autism, and dyslexia, and suggest a relationship between dyslexia and creativity. Adaptive rewiring cooperates with network growth and interacts constructively with spatial organization principles in the formation of topographically distinct modules and structures such as ganglia and chains. At the mesoscopic level, adaptive rewiring enables the development of functional architectures, such as convergent-divergent units, and sheds light on the early development of divergence and convergence in, for example, the visual system. Finally, we discuss future prospects for the principle of adaptive rewiring.
Syncing the brain’s networks: dynamic functional connectivity shifts from temporal interference
Authors: Zhu Zhiqiang , Tang Dongsheng , Qin Lang , Qian Zhenyu , Zhuang Jie , Liu Yu
Published: October 2024

Background

Temporal interference (TI) stimulation, an innovative non-invasive brain stimulation approach, has the potential to activate neurons in deep brain regions. However, the dynamic mechanisms underlying its neuromodulatory effects are not fully understood. This study aims to investigate the effects of TI stimulation on dynamic functional connectivity (dFC) in the motor cortex.

Methods

40 healthy adults underwent both TI and tDCS in a double-blind, randomized crossover design, with sessions separated by at least 48 h. The total stimulation intensity of TI is 4 mA, with each channel’s intensity set at 2 mA and a 20 Hz frequency difference (2 kHz and 2.02 kHz). The tDCS stimulation intensity is 2 mA. Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) data were collected before, during, and after stimulation. dFC was calculated using the left primary motor cortex (M1) as the region of interest (ROI) and analyzed using a sliding time-window method. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA (group × time) was conducted to evaluate the effects of TI and tDCS on changes in dFC.

Results

For CV of dFC, significant main effects of stimulation type (P = 0.004) and time (P < 0.001) were observed. TI showed lower CV of dFC than tDCS in the left postcentral gyrus (P < 0.001). TI-T2 displayed lower CV of dFC than TI-T1 in the left precentral gyrus (P < 0.001). For mean dFC, a significant main effect of time was found (P < 0.001). TI–T2 showed higher mean dFC than tDCS-T2 in the left postcentral gyrus (P = 0.018). Within-group comparisons revealed significant differences between time points in both TI and tDCS groups, primarily in the left precentral and postcentral gyri (all P < 0.001). Results were consistent across different window sizes.

Conclusion

20 Hz TI stimulation altered dFC in the primary motor cortex, leading to a significant decreasing variability and increasing mean connectivity strength in dFC. This outcome indicates that the 20 Hz TI frequency interacted with the motor cortex’s natural resonance.
Association between dietary calcium intake and constipation in a metabolic syndrome population: evidence from NHANES 2005–2010
Authors: Zhu Li , Yang Long , Liang Zonghua , Shi Wen , Ma Ming , Chen Jingbo , Abdula Zulipikaer , Gong Xuchen
Published: October 2024

Background

The global prevalence of Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) is increasing, primarily characterized by abdominal obesity, which significantly heightens the risk of cardiovascular diseases, gastrointestinal disorders, and cancers. Constipation is a common gastrointestinal issue that impacts both physiological and psychological health and worsens with age. Calcium, an essential mineral vital for human health, has been proven to be crucial not only for bone health but also beneficial for gastrointestinal health. However, the results regarding its impact on constipation are inconsistent. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary calcium intake and constipation in individuals with MetS.

Methods

This cross-sectional study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2010. Participants were assessed for MetS based on the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) criteria. Dietary calcium intake was evaluated through 24-h dietary recalls, and constipation was defined based on the frequency of bowel movements recorded in the bowel health questionnaire. The relationship between calcium intake and constipation was explored using logistic regression models with adjustment for covariates, and restricted cubic spline analyses were also used to investigate nonlinear relationships.

Results

The study included 4,838 adult participants with MetS. Adjusted logistic regression revealed that an increase in dietary calcium intake was significantly associated with a reduced risk of constipation (OR: 0.562, 95% CI: 0.379 to 0.835, p = 0.006). Compared to the lowest quartile, the highest quartile of dietary calcium intake significantly decreased the risk of constipation (OR: 0.282, 95% CI: 0.115 to 0.691, p = 0.008). Results from the restrictive cubic spline analysis indicated a negative linear association between dietary calcium intake and constipation risk (non-linearity p = 0.704).

Conclusion

The findings suggested that increased dietary calcium intake is associated with a decreased risk of constipation among MetS patients, emphasizing dietary calcium as a potentially modifiable factor for managing gastrointestinal symptoms in this population.
Association between dietary fiber intake and suicidal ideation: a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Huang Huaying , Fu Jianjiong , Lu Keyu , Fu Yaming , Zhuge Pan , Yao Yu
Published: October 2024

Background

Dietary fiber is beneficial for improving mental health. However, few studies have evaluated the relationship between fiber-rich food and suicidal ideation. Thus, we aimed to assess whether dietary fiber consumption was associated with the risk of suicidal ideation.

Methods

Data of 21,865 American adults were retrieved from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Logistic and restricted cubic spline regression analyses were performed in order to evaluate the association of dietary fiber intake with suicidal ideation, as indicated by item nine of the nine-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). These analyses took into consideration several confounding factors that may potentially influence the results.

Results

Herein, we detected an L-shaped association between dietary fiber intake and the risk of suicidal ideation. For the most conclusive model, an increase of 1 g/1000 kcal/d in dietary fiber intake was accompanied by a 5% reduction in the risk of suicidal ideation. The inflection point of the L-shaped association was located at 7.8 g/1000 kcal/d. When dietary fiber intake exceeded the above level, the risk of suicidal ideation no longer decreased.

Conclusion

Our findings of reduced risk of suicidal ideation in people with higher dietary fiber intake suggest the potential clinical and public health value of dietary fiber. Interventional investigations are warranted to prove whether adhering to a high-fiber diet prevents and reduces suicidality.
Association of plain water intake with risk of all-cause and cause-specific mortality in individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Zhao Na , He Yun , Li Yuan , Zhang Ning , Wang Yan
Published: October 2024

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) or metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD)-related mortality have increased dramatically in past decades. Our study aims to investigate the association between plain water and this prevalent metabolic disease, as water plays a crucial role in regulating metabolic processes. A total of 3,543/3,428 individuals with NAFLD/MASLD were included in this study from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Daily plain water intake was recorded, and mortality status was tracked until December 31, 2019. Multivariate Cox regression models and restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression models were used to assess the association between plain water intake and long-term all-cause as well as cause-specific mortality among participants with NAFLD/MASLD. Furthermore, we investigated the relationship between substituting other beverages with plain water intake and the risk of mortality. The multivariate Cox regression analyses revealed a significant association between higher plain water intake and lower all-cause mortality, cerebrovascular diseases mortality, and cancer mortality in both NAFLD or MASLD patients. Dose-response analyses revealed a non-linear trend between plain water intake and mortality among NAFLD/MASLD patients. Additionally, replacing sugar or artificial beverages with plain water was linked to reduced all-cause mortality, cerebrovascular diseases mortality, and cancer mortality in patients with NAFLD/MASLD. Higher plain water intake is independently linked to lower risk of all-cause, cerebrovascular diseases mortality, and cancer mortality in NAFLD/MASLD patients. Increasing plain water intake may be an effective way for these patients to reduce their risk of mortality.
Evaluation of the positional reproducibility of sedation versus non-sedation state in pediatric radiotherapy: a retrospective study
Authors: Lei Zhanquan , Shi Yuequan , Liu Yiqun , Gao Bo , Shao Kongfeng , Lin Xijin , Wu Lizhen , Yao Zhaojie
Published: October 2024

Objective

To assess the positional reproducibility of sedated and non-sedated pediatric tumor patients during radiotherapy through a retrospective analysis of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and planned computed tomography (CT) scan data.

Methods

The positional reproducibility of 40 pediatric tumor patients, aged 2 to 17 years with a median age of 4.5 years, who received radiotherapy under sedated and non-sedated states was retrospectively compared. The first CBCT images obtained during CT-based treatment planning were analyzed. The analysis encompassed six-dimensional positional changes, including vertical (Vrt), longitudinal (Lng), lateral (Lat), rotational (Rtn), pitch, and roll directions. Kolmogorov-Smirnov Z nonparametric rank-sum testing was employed to evaluate the positional deviations, considering absolute values regardless of directionality. Data were further stratified based on different fixation methods used during treatment.

Results

Sedated patients exhibited significantly smaller positional deviations in Vrt, Lng, Lat, and Rtn directions in the body membrane group compared with their non-sedated counterparts (P<0.05). Similarly, sedated patients demonstrated reduced positional deviations in Vrt, Lng, Lat, Rtn, pitch and Roll directions in the head and neck group compared with non-sedated patients (P<0.05). Meanwhile, compared with vacuum bag plus body membrane fixation, the head and shoulder film fixation technique proved superior in terms of positional reproducibility during sedated treatment, specifically in Vrt, Lng, Lat, Pitch, and Roll directions (P<0.05). Similarly, compared with the alternative fixation method, the head and shoulder film fixation method showed better positional deviations in six-Dimensional directions in non-sedated patients (P<0.05).

Conclusion

While sedated radiotherapy may offer advantages in terms of positional reproducibility, the present study underscores the importance of considering non-sedated radiotherapy as a viable option for pediatric tumor patients. Non-sedated treatment not only provides effective tumor control but also mitigates the psychological trauma and long-term side effects associated with repeated sedative drug use. Future studies should further explore the optimal sedation and fixation strategies for pediatric radiotherapy.
Biogenically synthesized gold nanocarrier ameliorated antiproliferative and apoptotic efficacy of doxorubicin against lung cancer
Authors: Albulaihed Yazeed , Mishra Prakriti , Saeed Mohd , Alabdallah Nadiyah M. , Ginawi Tarig , Ansari Irfan Ahmad
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Conventional chemotherapy treatment is commonly linked to significant side effects due to high therapeutic doses. In this regard, nanoformulations with chemotherapeutic medications hold promise in enhancing drug effectiveness through the reduction of therapeutic dosages, thereby mitigating the potential for adverse side effects. Because of numerous applications in the biomedical arena, there has been a rising interest in developing an environmentally acceptable, long-lasting, and affordable technique for the production of gold nanoparticles. In this particular context, the incorporation of plant extracts in the production of metallic nanoparticles has garnered the interest of numerous scholars. Here, we report the synthesis of gold particles by the green method using Cannabis sativa L. leaf extract and their conjugation with doxorubicin.

Methods

The gold nanoparticles were synthesized by using Cannabis sativa extract and were characterized with various biophysical techniques. Subsequently, gold nanoparticles were conjugated with doxorubicin and their efficacy was tested on A549 cells.

Results and Discussion

The biogenic synthesis of gold nanoparticles was ascertained through an absorption peak at a wavelength of 524 nm, and it was shifted to 527 nm when conjugated with doxorubicin. Nanoparticles were found to be stable exhibiting a zeta potential value of −20.1 mV, and it changed to −12.7 mV when loaded with doxorubicin. The hydrodynamic diameter of nanoparticles was determined to be 45.64 nm and it was increased to 58.95 nm when conjugated with the drug. The average size of nanoparticles analyzed by TEM was found to be approximately 17.2 nm, while it was 23.5 nm in the case of drug-nanoconjugate. Moreover, there was a significant amelioration in the antiproliferative potential of doxorubicin against lung cancer A549 cells when delivered with gold nanocarrier, which was evident by the lower IC50 and IC75 values of drug-nanoconjugates in comparison to drug alone. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of drug-nanoconjugates and drug alone was characterized by alteration in the cell morphology, nuclear condensation, increased production of reactive oxygen species, abrogation of mitochondrial membrane potential, and enhanced caspase activities in A549 cells. In sum, our results suggested enhanced efficacy of doxorubicin-gold nanoconjugates, indicating effective delivery of doxorubicin inside the cell by gold nanoparticles.
Current perspectives and trends in acupuncture for sleep disorders: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Huang Yi , Ying Xihan , Zhang Jieqi , Hu Rong , Chen Yi , Wu Lei , Chen Bowen , Zhang Kai , He Kelin , Ma Ruijie
Published: October 2024

Background

Limitations of conventional treatment methods for sleep disorders have driven the use and development of complementary and alternative therapies such as acupuncture. However, despite the surge in related studies, there is still a lack of visual analysis and detailed elaboration regarding the current status, international collaborations, and research hotspots of acupuncture for sleep disorders.

Methods

We conducted a bibliometric analysis of publications on acupuncture for sleep disorders using the Web of Science Core Collection database from 2004 to 2023. We utilized the R package “bibliometrix” to count publications and citations, VOSviewer to create an inter-institutional referencing network, and CiteSpace to identify references and keywords with the highest citation bursts. Additionally, we employed a bibliometric online analysis platform designed for analyzing national partnerships.

Results

A total of 432 pertinent papers were retrieved, with China being the most prolific contributor, accounting for 61.6% of the publications, followed by the United States and South Korea. Despite China’s high output, its average article citation rate and proportion of international collaborations were notably lower than those of the United States. Key research institutions such as the University of Hong Kong, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine have played significant roles in this field. Among authors, Ka-Fai Chung from the University of Hong Kong stood out as the most productive. In terms of journals, MEDICINE was the most active, while SLEEP was considered the most authoritative. The clinical effects of acupuncture for insomnia have garnered significant attention in recent years, with electroacupuncture emerging as the prevailing technique for addressing sleep disorders.

Conclusion

This bibliometric study effectively outlines the basic framework of knowledge surrounding acupuncture for sleep disorders over the past two decades, covering publications, countries, institutions, authors, and sources. It highlights promising clinical effects and underlying mechanisms of acupuncture, particularly for secondary insomnia and specific sleep disorders like restless legs syndrome. Moving forward, the focus and challenge for future research lie in the development of standardized study protocols and harmonization of efficacy assessment metrics.
Ultrasound-assisted extraction of itraconazole from pellets: an efficient approach for the recovery of active pharmaceutical compounds from solid dosage forms
Authors: Ferreira Patricia G. , Lima Carolina G. S. , de Moraes Marcela C. , da Silva Fernando de C. , Futuro Débora O. , Ferreira Vitor F.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Itraconazole is a widely used broad-spectrum antifungal drug on a global scale. However, its poor water solubility necessitates the development of advanced formulations for its effective use. Currently, itraconazole is available commercially in capsule form, with pellets containing the active drug. The extraction of itraconazole from these granules is often required when developing new formulations. Extracting active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) from pellets is crucial in ensuring precise and consistent dosing when producing pharmaceutical dosage forms. Surprisingly, no existing methods for extracting itraconazole from pellets have been reported thus far.

Objective

Therefore, this study aimed to develop and evaluate an efficient method for extracting this API from pellets.

Methods

Two extraction methods were assessed: conventional Soxhlet extraction and ultrasound-assisted extraction.

Results and Discussion

The results demonstrated that ultrasound-assisted extraction significantly outperformed the conventional method, yielding higher amounts of itraconazole with a high purity level of 96.8%.
Outdoor stays—A basic human need except for older adults in residential care facilities? Researcher-practitioner interaction crosses zones and shows the way out
Authors: Nordin Susanna , Liljegren Madeleine , Nilsson Martin , Bengtsson Anna , Wijk Helle
Published: October 2024

The aim of this discussion paper is to show the way to the outdoors by shedding light on conditions in the physical environment enabling outdoor stays for older adults living in residential care facilities (RCFs). The origin was that outdoor stays is a basic human need and applies to everyone. However, despite extensive research on the health-promoting values of contact with the outdoors, it seems that for older adults in RCFs this is not met because they often have difficulty getting outdoors on their own. Therefore, the access to and the conditions of outdoor environments are discussed and exemplified through two cases based on evidence-based approaches, namely the principal model of four zones of contact with the outdoors, and the Swedish version of the Sheffield Care Environment Assessment Matrix (S-SCEAM). An interdisciplinary team, including both researchers and practitioners highlights future directions by showing the way to the outdoors on a national level with six suggested points. As a reader, you will gain increased knowledge about environmental qualities that support outdoor stays as well as initiatives that are needed to achieve equal conditions related to outdoor stays in RCFs.
Mycobacterium abscessus pulmonary infection and associated respiratory function in cystic fibrosis-like βENaC mice
Authors: Pearce Camron M. , Shaw Timothy D. , Podell Brendan , Jackson Mary , Henao-Tamayo Marcela , Obregon-Henao Andres , Lam Ha , Alshiraihi Ilham M. , O'Neal Wanda , Livraghi-Butrico Alessandra , Hickey Anthony J. , Meibohm Bernd , Gonzalez-Juarrero Mercedes
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Chronic pulmonary infection with Mycobacterium abscessus (M. abscessus) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in people with cystic fibrosis (CF). Developing an animal model of M. abscessus pulmonary infection, especially under CF conditions, is essential to understanding clinical pulmonary M. abscessus infection. βENaC transgenic mice are known to develop spontaneous CF-like disease characterized by airway mucus obstruction and inflammation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the suitability of βENaC mice as a preclinical model and characterize their respiratory function during M. abscessus lung infection.

Methods

Mice received an intrapulmonary aerosol of M. abscessus using a high-pressure syringe device (Penn-Century) for subsequent characterization of disease progression and respiratory function. Whole body unrestrained plethysmography (WBP) data was collected to monitor lung function and endpoints determined organ bacterial burden and associated pathology.

Results

Endpoint CFU data in the lung and spleen showed that there was no significant difference in bacterial clearance between βENaC and WT mice. WBP data showed an impairment in overall respiratory function during and after M. abscessus infection in both strains of mice. Interestingly, even in wildtype control mice, lung dysfunction persisted after bacterial clearance.

Discussion

Even with CF-like features, the βENaC transgenic mice cleared M. abscessus at a similar rate than WT mice, however, the associated respiratory monitoring revealed that there are long-term implications of M. abscessus lung exposure. The clear decline in respiratory function, even after M. abscessus clearance, suggests that WBP coupled animal modeling provides important insight that is relevant to disease burden and treatment efficacy. The M. abscessus clearance in the βENaC mice may help improve the fields understanding of CF-modulated immune deficiencies in M. abscessus pulmonary infection.
Analysing Sector Safety Performance Based on Potential Conflicts: Complex Network Approach
Authors: García-Ovies Carro Icíar , Arnaldo Valdés Rosa María
Published: October 2024

This paper presents an in-depth analysis of Sector Safety Performance (SeSPe), focusing on potential conflicts within the Spanish Air Traffic Network. SeSPe serves as a comprehensive analysis for evaluating the safety levels of individual airspace sectors, taking into account both the frequency and severity of potential conflicts, along with their geospatial characteristics. Using Complex Network Theory, this study applies a novel methodology to four Madrid ACC sectors, analysing one month of flight track data. Multiple weighted spatial-temporal networks are built using 60 min intervals, allowing for the identification of critical nodes and the examination of interconnections and structural dynamics within the air traffic network. By incorporating temporal variations, the analysis uncovers evolving patterns. The research introduces an innovative approach for calculating potential conflicts by integrating radar data with airspace structure, thus offering a deeper understanding of sector risk profiles. The development of the SeSPe indicator, which combines historical safety data with topological features, enables a more informed and strategic evaluation of Air Traffic Management (ATM) system performance, ultimately contributing to safer and more efficient airspace operations.
Design and Development of Energy Particle Detector on China’s Chang’e-7
Authors: Wang Liping , Shen Guohong , Zhang Huanxin , Hou Donghui , Zhang Shenyi , Zhang Xianguo , Quan Zida , Liao Jiajie , Ji Wentao , Sun Ying
Published: October 2024

Particle radiation on the Moon is influenced by a combination of galactic cosmic rays, high-energy solar particles, and secondary particles interacting on the lunar surface. When China’s Chang’e-7 lander lands at the Moon’s South Pole, it will encounter this complex radiation environment. Therefore, a payload detection technology was developed to comprehensively measure the energy spectrum, direction, and radiation effects of medium- and high-energy charged particles on the lunar surface. During the ground development phase, the payload performance was tested against the design specifications. The verification results indicate that the energy measurement ranges are 30 keV to 300 MeV for protons, 30 keV to 12 MeV for electrons, and 8 to 400 MeV/n for heavy ions. The energy resolution is 10.81% for 200 keV electrons of the system facing the lunar surface; the dose rate measurement sensitivity is 7.48 µrad(Si)/h; and the LET spectrum measurement range extends from 0.001 to 37.014 MeV/(mg/cm2). These comprehensive measurements are instrumental in establishing a lunar surface particle radiation model, enhancing the understanding of the lunar radiation environment, and supporting human lunar activities.
GDnet-IP: Grouped Dropout-Based Convolutional Neural Network for Insect Pest Recognition
Authors: Li Dongcheng , Xu Yongqi , Yuan Zheming , Dai Zhijun
Published: October 2024

Lightweight convolutional neural network (CNN) models have proven effective in recognizing common pest species, yet challenges remain in enhancing their nonlinear learning capacity and reducing overfitting. This study introduces a grouped dropout strategy and modifies the CNN architecture to improve the accuracy of multi-class insect recognition. Specifically, we optimized the base model by selecting appropriate optimizers, fine-tuning the dropout probability, and adjusting the learning rate decay strategy. Additionally, we replaced ReLU with PReLU and added BatchNorm layers after each Inception layer, enhancing the model’s nonlinear expression and training stability. Leveraging the Inception module’s branching structure and the adaptive grouping properties of the WeDIV clustering algorithm, we developed two grouped dropout models, the iGDnet-IP and GDnet-IP. Experimental results on a dataset containing 20 insect species (15 pests and five beneficial insects) demonstrated an increase in cross-validation accuracy from 84.68% to 92.12%, with notable improvements in the recognition rates for difficult-to-classify species, such as Parnara guttatus Bremer and Grey (PGBG) and Papilio xuthus Linnaeus (PXLL), increasing from 38% and 47% to 62% and 93%, respectively. Furthermore, these models showed significant accuracy advantages over standard dropout methods on test sets, with faster training times compared to four conventional CNN models, highlighting their suitability for mobile applications. Theoretical analyses of model gradients and Fisher information provide further insight into the grouped dropout strategy’s role in improving CNN interpretability for insect recognition tasks.
Potential of Selected Species of Spiraea L. for Phytoremediation of Heavy Metals from Soils of Urban Areas
Authors: Antkowiak Wojciech , Bosiacki Maciej , Sowelo Mateusz
Published: October 2024

Four taxa of Spiraea were selected for this study: S. × cinerea Zabel ‘Grefsheim’, S. nipponica Maxim. ‘Snowmound’, S. splendens É. N. Baumann ex K. Koch and S. × vanhouttei (Briot) Carrière growing for a minimum of 5 years along heavily trafficked traffic routes. This study included the genus Spiraea due to its popularity in horticultural practice (commercial availability, widespread in urban environments). In addition, the use of ornamental shrubs for phytoremediation in urban green spaces effectively combines the aesthetic needs of residents with those of caring for the urban environment. This study was conducted in Poznań (population 550,000, the fifth largest city in Poland). Soils and foliage were examined in spring and autumn. Soil pH and specific electrolytic conductivity (EC) were determined. The content of micronutrients (Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Zn) and toxic heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Pb) in soil dry matter and leaves was determined. The uptake capacity of bioavailable forms of heavy metals by Spiraea from the soil was analyzed by determining the bioconcentration factor (BCF). It was found that the studied taxa meet the basic requirements for plants used for soil phytoremediation processes, especially for chromium phytoextraction. The degree of salinity of the tested soils did not pose a threat to the shrubs growing there, and most of the sites, despite the alkaline reaction, are suitable for their cultivation. S. × cinerea and S. × vanhouttei have BCFs for lead <1. The remaining taxa are characterized by strong concentrations of all analyzed elements. A particularly high BCF, above 10, was recorded for chromium and high for manganese and nickel.
Climate Change and Its Impact on Romanian Rural Tourism—A Review of Actionable Knowledge
Authors: Velea Liliana , Irimescu Anisoara , Bojariu Roxana , Chitu Zenaida
Published: October 2024

Various motivations are at the basis of tourists’ choice for rural destinations, and among them natural environment and outdoor activities hold a significant weight. This makes tourism vulnerable to climate change through the direct effect of changes in the attractivity of climate conditions, in addition to the indirect effects due to the expected impacts on other associated socio-economic sectors. In this context, increasing rural tourism resilience to climate change is a complex issue which needs to consider adaptation measures focusing on tourism specifics in synergy with adaptation measures in related sectors (e.g., energy, land and water management, urbanization aspects). Expected impacts, vulnerability and resilience of tourism to climate change are research issues more and more addressed in the recent years and their assessment at national or even local scales becomes increasingly important for designing effective adaptation measures. The study aims to present a summary of current knowledge related to the impact of climate change on Romanian tourism and, in particular, on rural tourism. Also, a synthesis of the available climate information tailored for the Romanian tourism sector is presented, focusing on actionable information that may be employed to reduce the negative effects of climate change on Romanian rural tourism.
Biocontrol Efficacy of Bacillus thuringiensis Strain 00-50-5 Against the Root-Knot Nematode Meloidogyne enterolobii in Pepper
Authors: Sun Yanfang , Guo Yuan , Pei Yueling , Chen Yuan , Feng Tuizi , Long Haibo
Published: October 2024

The root-knot nematode Meloidogyne enterolobii is a major constraint to pepper production in tropical regions. In the long-term practice of root-knot nematode management, bacterial nematicides have attracted increasing attention as effective biocontrol agents. In this study, we evaluated the efficacy of Bacillus thuringiensis strain 00-50-5 (Bt 00-50-5) against M. enterolobii through in vitro, greenhouse and field trials. The cell-free supernatant of Bt 00-50-5 exhibited potent nematicidal activity against second-stage juveniles (J2s) of M. enterolobii, with mortality rates of 98.0% and 100% after 24 h and 36 h of exposure, respectively. In addition, Bt 00-50-5 showed inhibitory effects on the hatching of M. enterolobii eggs, resulting in a remarkable 96.6% reduction in the egg hatching rate after 6 days compared to the control. The pot trials showed that both pepper root galls and egg masses were reduced, and plant growth was improved after treatment with Bt 00-50-5. The field trials showed that the gall index was significantly reduced, with a 66.3% and 68.2% reduction in disease index in 2020–2021 and 2021–2022, respectively, and pepper yield was improved, with a 96.2% and 93.1% increase in yield in 2020–2021 and 2021–2022, respectively, compared to the control. These results indicate the potential use of Bt 00-50-5 as an effective biocontrol agent against M. enterolobii.