bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tribuli Fructus alleviates 1-methyl-4-phenyl 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced Parkinson’s disease by suppressing neuroinflammation via JNK signaling
Authors: Kim Jin Hee , Huh Eugene , Kim Jin Se , Kwon Youngji , Eo Hyeyoon , Ju In Gyoung , Choi Yujin , Yoon Hae-Jee , Son So-Ri , Jang Dae Sik , Hong Seon-Pyo , Oh Myung Sook
Published: March 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons. In particular, neuroinflammation associated with phosphorylation of c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) is likely to cause the death of dopaminergic neurons. Therefore, protecting dopaminergic neurons through anti-neuroinflammation is a promising therapeutic strategy for PD. This study investigated whether Tribuli Fructus (TF) could alleviate PD by inhibiting neuroinflammation. Mouse primary mixed glial culture cells from the mouse cortex were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to induce neuroinflammation, and 1 h later, TF was treated. 1-methyl-4-phenyl 1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) was injected into C57BL/6J mice for 5 days, and TF was co and post-administered for 12 days. Our study showed that TF attenuated pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines in LPS-stimulated primary mixed glial cultures. In the brains of MPTP-induced PD mouse model, TF inhibited the activation of microglia and astrocytes, protected dopaminergic neurons, and increased dopamine levels. TF alleviated MPTP-induced bradykinesia, a representative behavioral disorder in PD. In addition, the results in vitro and in vivo revealed that TF regulates the phosphorylation of JNK. Collectively, our data suggest that TF may be a new therapeutic candidate for PD by regulating JNK signaling.
Association of HLA Alleles with Cephalosporin Allergy in the Taiwanese Population
Authors: Wang Chih-Chun , Shen Ching-Hui , Lin Guan-Cheng , Chen Yi-Ming , Chen I-Chieh
Published: March 2024

Background: Cephalosporin antibiotics are widely used in clinical settings, but they can cause hypersensitivity reactions, which may be influenced by genetic factors such as the expression of Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules. This study aimed to investigate whether specific HLA alleles were associated with an increased risk of adverse reactions to cephalosporins among individuals in the Taiwanese population.
Methods: This retrospective case-control study analyzed data from the Taiwan Precision Medicine Initiative (TPMI) on 27,933 individuals who received cephalosporin exposure and had HLA allele genotyping information available. Using logistic regression analyses, we examined the associations between HLA genotypes, comorbidities, allergy risk, and severity.
Results: Among the study population, 278 individuals had cephalosporin allergy and 2,780 were in the control group. Our results indicated that certain HLA alleles, including B55:02 (OR = 1.76, 95% CI: 1.18-2.61, p=0.005), C01:02 (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.05-1.77, p=0.018), and DQB106:09 (OR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.62-4.12, p<0.001), were significantly associated with an increased risk of cephalosporin allergy reactions. Additionally, the HLA-C01:02 allele genotype was significantly associated with a higher risk of severe allergy (OR=2.33, 95% CI: 1.05-5.15, p=0.04).
Conclusion: This study identified significant associations between HLA alleles and an increased risk of cephalosporin allergy, which can aid in early detection and prediction of adverse drug reactions to cephalosporins. Furthermore, our study highlights the importance of HLA typing in drug safety and expanding our knowledge of drug hypersensitivity syndromes.
First molecular and phylogenetic identification of Toxoplasma gondii in sheep liver intended for human consumption in Northern Tunisia
Authors: Amdouni Yosra , Hammami Ines , Farhat Nadia , Rekik Mourad , Gharbi Mohamed
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to estimate the molecular infection prevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in sheep liver tissues destined for human consumption. A total number of 224 liver tissues were collected from slaughtered sheep in Sejnane slaughterhouse (Northwest Tunisia). PCR was used to detect T. gondii DNA in liver tissues followed by phylogenetic analysis of amplicons. The phylogenetic tree was then constructed to compare the partial sequences of the ITS1 gene with GenBank sequences.
The overall molecular prevalence of T. gondii in sheep livers was 25% (56/224). The highest molecular prevalence of T. gondii was recorded in sheep aged of less than one year old (27.3%; 52/190). Infection prevalence was significantly higher in Noire de Thibar breed (33%; 17/51) compared to other breeds (p = 0.023). There were no differences depicted according to sheep’s gender. The T. gondii sequences obtained in the present study (GenBank accession numbers: OR509829 and OR509830) were 98.40-100% homologous to T. gondii sequences published in the GenBank. These results highlight a high level of T. gondii contamination of tissues destined for human consumption. Further studies are needed to improve our knowledge on different genotypes of T. gondii that infect Tunisian sheep population.
A Fingerprint Dictionary Processing Approach in Indoor Localization System Based on Wi-Fi
Authors: Yang Junhua , Wang Yuan , Cheng Wei , Liu Yang , Lu Jingyu , Wu Jin , Qin Santuan
Published: March 2024

Indoor localization using Wi-Fi fingerprinting based on Received Signal Strength (RSS) has gained widespread attention due to its immunity to external factors and ability to penetrate obstacles. The localization process involves an offline phase for building a radio map and an online phase for matching location queries. Existing matching algorithms often prioritize enhancing online phase accuracy, overlooking the importance of offline data preprocessing, which can negatively impact overall performance. This study introduces a novel approach called Fingerprint Dictionary Preprocessing (FDP) that employs Convolutional Dictionary Learning (CDL) to process radio map data. CDL learns a set of kernels capturing site characteristics, representing RSS values from Access Points (APs) in a sparse manner. The proposed FDP system compresses data through feature learning, reducing storage and bandwidth requirements for data transmission. In the online phase, CDL is utilized for assisting matching fingerprints against the learned dictionary, accurately locating users. The contributions of the FDP system presenting a cost-effective and practical solution for indoor localization, addressing the challenges associated with large data collection and multi-dimensional data requirements, making it a promising approach for real-world applications. We conducted experiments in two real indoor environments, and the results indicated that the proposed FDP system, whether applied to the original radio map or the preprocessed fingerprint database, led to improved localization accuracy and reduced localization time.
Dual Ligand-Tuned Iron and Halogen-Contained Carboxylates-based Photocatalysis for Chloro/Fluoro-Polyhaloalkylation of Alkenes
Authors: Lan Yu , Jiang Kui , Yu Xuehan , Han Wanru , Jiang Xiaoyu , Yang Wei , Zhao Zhenyan , Wei Donghui , Li Shijun , Niu Linbin
Published: March 2024

Herein, we demonstrate a practical dual ligand-tuned iron-based photocatalyzed decarboxylation paradigm—translating all kinds of halogen-contained carboxylates (CnXmCOO-, X: F, Cl, Br) into CnXm radical for the valuable chloro/fluoro-polyhaloalkylation of non-activated alkenes through utilizing easily available trichloroacetonitrile and selectfluor as electrophilic halogenation reagents, respectively, in which the modular assembly of the dual ligand—bipyridines and acetonitriles to in situ-generated ferric halogen-contained carboxylates to produce the effective iron and CnXmCOO--based light-harvesting species for CnXm radical release in visible light conditions is evidenced by detailed mechanistic studies. The late-stage modification, low loading amount of iron (TON: 257) and feasible gram-scale synthesis show the utility of this protocol. We thus anticipate that dual ligand-tuned iron photocatalysis may have an aptitude for activation and transformation of inert bulk chemicals.
Reservoir recovery study with stability analysis model constructed by flat sand filling experiment-Example of well area X in Tankou oilfield
Authors: Yang Yuan
Published: March 2024

Injecting and recovering fluids in mature oil fields is a challenging task that can have significant impact on overall recovery rates. Conventionally, the approach taken has been a combination of laboratory experiments and numerical simulations, which lack field-scale verification and prediction accuracy. To address this limitation, we propose a new methodological approach—from experimentation to data simulation to developing a solution proposal to mathematically proving the validity of the approach. The novelty of this approach lies in its ability to fast-track verification of the solution and to predict, within limitations, the expected performance under real-field conditions. In the case study detailed in this paper, we establish the relationship between permeability, crude oil viscosity, and fluid recovery rate—all key parameters—on recovery performance, assuming a fixed wellbore network configuration. The results are validated through numerical simulations. Based on these findings, we recommend a development adjustment scheme, which is then rapidly validated using a reliability analysis model for a period of one year. The scheme implementation results in exponential distribution percentiles of 0.258375 and 0.276978, indicating its effectiveness. Additionally, the DGM (1,1) model projects recovery rates of 8.93 and 12.08 for the next two time points. Based on these projections, engineering guidelines are developed recommending crude oil viscosity adjustment through blending and dosing, and adoption of a 5 mL/min water injection rate for optimal recovery performance.
Influence of environmental variables on plant mite assemblages: implications on bio-control strategies in Tropical scenario
Authors: Mitra Subhasree , Acharya Shelley , Ghosh Sujay
Published: March 2024

The seasonal variation in mite populations on four selected plants, namely Justicia adhatoda L., Wissadula periplocifolia (L.) Thwaites, Citrus maxima (Burm.) Merr. and Syzygium jambolanum (Lam.) DC from tropical agro-climatic zone in India has been studied. Temperature (°C), rainfall (24 hrs in mm), relative humidity (at 08:30 hrs and 17:30 hrs) were considered as predictor variables to analyze various ecological attributes of the mite populations. A consecutive two years (September 2015 to 2017) study at three different time points, viz pre-monsoon, Monsoon and Post-monsoon succeeded to sample 13,210 mites speciemens from these four host plants. The study revealed that the occurrence of mite species was strongly correlated with habitats, temperature, rainfall and humidity across the seasons. Pre-monsoon, Monsoon and Post-monsoon times were shown to have significant influence on the dynamics of mite communities. The result suggested that the mite assemblages are correlated with their host plant types, environmental variables and seasonal factors. This finding helps us in designing mite control strategies in different seasons in Southern West Bengal, India. Depending of the result of our study and of other, one can design strategy of the biological control of pest mite using the predatory mites at different seasons and can obtain more economic benefit in term of greater crop production in Tropical scenario.
Bimodality in subaqueous dune height suggests critical transition at high flow
Authors: de Lange Sjoukje , de Vijsel Roeland van , Torfs Paul , Hoitink A.J.F. (Ton)
Published: March 2024

River bedforms influence fluvial hydraulics by altering bed roughness. With increasing flow velocity, the riverbed transitions from a flat bed to ripples, dunes, and an upper stage plane bed. Although prior research notes increased bedform height variation with flow strength and rapid shifts between bed configurations, the latter remains understudied. This study reanalyzes data from earlier experiments, revealing a bimodal distribution of dune heights beyond a transport stage of 18. Dune heights flicker between a low and high alternative state, indicating critical transitions. Potentially triggered by local sediment outbursts, these shifts lead to dune formation before returning to a washed-out state. This flickering behavior challenges the adequacy of a single snapshot to capture the system's state, impacting field measurements and experimental designs, and questions the classical equilibrium equations in geomorphology. This study calls for further research to understand and quantify flickering behavior in sediment beds at high transport stages.
Kawakawa tea Intake and its anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory effects: An integrative microRNA and mRNA analysis
Authors: Tautuiaki Senilaite , Gojer Jerusha , Jayaprakash Ramya , Sharma Pankaja , Pook Chris , Foster Meika , Miles-Chan Jennifer , Mithen Richard , Ramzan Farha
Published: March 2024

Purpose
Piper excelsum (kawakawa), a vascular plant endemic to Aotearoa, New Zealand, is of cultural and medicinal importance to Māori. Presence of biologically active compounds in kawakawa may underpin its putative beneficial health properties, particularly its anti-inflammatory effects. However, no human studies on its anti-inflammatory effects exist.
Method
Blood samples from a crossover two-arm randomised controlled trial to assess the impact of ingesting kawakawa tea (4g leaves/250 mL hot-water) on postprandial plasma abundances of microRNAs (miRNA) involved in metabolic-related pathways and their respective gene and protein targets in healthy human volunteers (n = 26; Age; 33.6 ± 1.9 (yr) and BMI; 22.5 ± 0.4 (kg/m2)) compared to water control, were used for the analysis.
Results
Nine miRNAs showed significantly different abundances following the two interventions. The abundance of hsa-miR-17-5p, -21-5p, -320a-5p, let-7g-5p, -16-5p, -122-5p, and − 144-3p was upregulated in response to kawakawa intake compared to water and the expression of hsa-miR-221-3p and − 223-3p was downregulated in kawakawa intake compared to water over a120 min postprandial period. In-silico analysis indicated miRNA enrichment in metabolic-related pathways, such as apoptosis, cytokine signaling, MAPK signaling, and MTOR pathways. Furthermore, the postprandial expression of IL-8 (p = 0.03), IL-6 (p = 0.01) and PPAR-γ was significanly reduced following kawakawa consumption compared to water control. While as IL-6 cytokine was significantly increased at 120 min in the kawakawa intervention only compared to baseline.
Conclusion
These findings highlight the interconnected nature of metabolic regulation pathways and highlight the need for further intervention studies to explore the chronic anti-inflammatory effects of kawakawa.
Clinical Trial Registration: The clinical trial is registered with Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ( ACTRN12621000311853).
Is Geriatric Medicine Teaching Homogeneous? The Analysis of Geriatric Medicine Courses at Polish Undergraduate Medical Programmes.
Authors: Kupis Robert , Perera Ian Bernard , Targowski Tomasz , Gąsowski Jerzy , Piotrowicz Karolina
Published: March 2024

Purpose
We aimed to analyse the characteristics of geriatric courses offered to undergraduate medical students in higher educational institutions (HEIs) in Poland.
Methods
We searched the official websites of the HEIs offering the medical degree programmes and we directly contacted the dean’s offices and HEIs representatives to retrieve the relevant information. The documents were analysed for course content, teaching methods, duration, and recommended texts. We also checked the obtained curricula for the reference to of the learning objectives (LOs) related to geriatric medicine, selected from the currently endorsed Polish educational standards (ES) provided by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.
Results
Geriatric medicine courses were obligatory at all included HEIs (n=19), but the courses differed in structure and content. The courses varied in duration from 11 to 60 hours and were primarily lecture-based. Simulation was utilized at only one HEI and e-learning at two institutions. Out of 315 LOs, we acknowledged only 9 as geriatric. They were not always found in all curricula. Two HEIs included self-described LOs in their curricula. Across all HEIs a total of 29 recommended texts (published between 1995 and 2021) were identified, including 2 English-language texts.
Conclusion
Geriatric medicine was a mandatory subject for medical students of the included HEIs. However, there was a lack of uniformity in the offered courses. This leaves room for the development of a unified undergraduate geriatrics curriculum to effectively address diverse geriatric issues. The importance of this matter is highlighted by demographic trends and workforce challenges.
M2 macrophages promote PD-L1 expression in triple-negative breast cancer via secreting CXCL1
Authors: Zhang Lifen , Gu Shanzhi , Wang Lu , Zhao Lin , Zhao Xinhan , Zhang Lingxiao
Published: March 2024

M2-like tumor-associated macrophages (M2-like TAMs) are known to play a significant role in the progression of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) by creating an immunosuppressive microenvironment. The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of M2 macrophages on TNBC and their association with PD-L1 expression. The results showed a high infiltration of M2 macrophages in TNBC tissue, which correlated positively with PD-L1 expression. Upon analyzing the expression of various cytokines in macrophages, it was found that CXCL1 showed abnormally high expression in M2 macrophages. CXCL1 specifically increased the expression of PD-L1 in TNBC cells. Notably, when CXCL1 or its receptor CXCR2 was silenced, the facilitation of PD-L1 expression by M2 macrophages was inhibited. Mechanistically, CXCL1 derived from M2 macrophages binding CXCR2 activated the PI3K/AKT/NF-κB signaling pathway, generating increased PD-L1 expression in TNBC. To validate these findings, xenograft tumor models were employed, demonstrating a positive correlation between CXCR2, phospho-AKT, phospho-p65 and PD-L1 expression with treatment with M2 macrophages in the xenograft tumor tissue. Broadly speaking, these results provide evidence for the immunosuppressive role of M2 macrophages and CXCL1 in tumor cells, suggesting their potential as therapeutic biomarkers for TNBC.
Investigation of the Davey-Stewartson excitation in a plasma with Fermi-Dirac distributed electrons
Authors: Mohammadnejad Mohsen , Abdikian Alireza , Akbari-Moghanjoughi Masoud
Published: March 2024

In this research a comprehensive investigation of ion acoustic waves within plasma environments, utilizing the Fermi-Dirac electron distribution is presented. The reductive perturbation technique is used to derive the three-dimensional Davey-Stewartson equation and analytical solutions are found in Jacobi elliptic cnoidal and solitary traveling wave forms. The dynamic behaviors of the solutions are then analyzed and studied parametrically. It is believed that current research can significantly contribute to present understanding of nonlinear wave behavior in multispecies warm and dense plasma systems and can have diverse applications to astrophysical and laboratory plasmas. Our investigation using a detailed numerical analysis, focuses on the impact of the generalized Equation of State (EoS) for Fermi-Dirac electron-ion plasma with three-dimensional Davey-Stewartson solutions with in-depth analysis of the modulation instability of the ion acoustic excitations. Current study incorporates variety of plasma parameters, such as the normalized chemical potential and electron temperature, also exploring electron number density effect on the wide range electron density-temperature regime. This work advances current understanding of traveling wave solution behavior, the modulation stability affected by the propagation angle, and the instability growth rate providing a comprehensive insight into ion acoustic wave dynamics in plasmas.
Optilume BPH: 2-Year Results from A Prospective Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial for the Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (The PINNACLE Study)
Authors: Kaplan Steven , Moss Jared , Freedman Sheldon
Published: March 2024

Background Patient outcomes were assessed 2 years after treatment with the Optilume BPH Catheter System, a minimally invasive surgical therapy for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) due to benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).Methods One-hundred forty-eight adult males with symptomatic BPH were enrolled and randomized in a 2:1 fashion to Optilume BPH or Sham (100 Optilume BPH; 48 Sham). Long-term measures include International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), peak urinary flow rate (Qmax), Post-Void Residual Urine (PVR), quality of life measures and sexual function. Long term follow-up was limited to those treated with Optilume BPH.Results At 2 years, 67.5% (56/83 CI 56.3%, 77.4%) of participants in the Optilume BPH arm were symptomatic responders as defined by ≥ 30% improvement in IPSS without medical or surgical retreatment. IPSS significantly improved from 23.4 ± 5.5 to 11.0 ± 7.0. Qmax improved by 118.5% (8.9 ± 2.2 to 19.1 ± 16.3), while PVR showed a slight reduction (83.3 ± 70.6 to 67.2 ± 74.2). Improvement in uroflowmetry measures was consistent across all prostate volumes. BPH-II improved from 7.0 ± 2.9 to 2.3 ± 2.5 at 1 year and remained consistent at 2.3 ± 2.9 at the 2-years, representing a 53.9% improvement. IPSS QoL also improved from 4.6 ± 1.3 at baseline to 2.2 ± 1.5. The most common adverse events reported in the Optilume BPH arm were hematuria and urinary tract infection (UTI). No device and/or treatment related serious adverse events were reported occurring beyond 12 months post-procedure. There was no impact to sexual function.Conclusions In the PINNACLE study, participants treated with the Optilume BPH Catheter System demonstrated continued and durable results at 2 years, affirming tolerability, safety, and the enduring effectiveness of the outcomes. The Optilume BPH Catheter System provides long-lasting results that are comparable to the more invasive therapy options, while preserving the advantages with being a minimally invasive therapy.
Characterization of a colistin resistant, hypervirulent hospital isolate of Acinetobacter courvalinii from Canada
Authors: Sykes Ellen ME , Mateo-Estrada Valeria , Muzaleva Anna , Zhanel George , Dettman Jeremy , Chapados Julie , Gerdis Suzanne , Akineden Ömer , Castillo-Ramírez Santiago , Khan Izhar UH , Kumar Ayush
Published: March 2024

Non-baumannii Acinetobacter spp. are becoming more prevalent in clinical settings including those that present resistance to last-resort antibiotics such as colistin. AB222-IK40 is an Acinetobacter courvalinii strain isolated from a Canadian hospital. To our knowledge, it is the first report of clinical A. courvalinii in Canada. This isolate was collected from the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute located in Ottawa, Canada. Based on the susceptibility profiles (MICs), AB222-IK40 is resistant to colistin and non-susceptible to ertapenem. Whole-genome sequencing allowed for genomic investigation into colistin resistance mechanisms. No previously identified mechanism(s) were observed, but a mobile colistin resistance (mcr)-like gene and a UDP-glucose dehydrogenase gene were identified. Based on phylogenomic analyses, the mcr-like gene is an intrinsic phosphoethanolamine transferase. This gene family is involved in one of the many mechanisms responsible for colistin resistance in Acinetobacter baumannii. UDP-glucose dehydrogenase is involved in colistin resistance in Enterobacterales and has been characterized in capsule formation in A. baumannii. Global lipidomics reveal phosphatidyl-myo-inositol and lyso-phosphatidyl ethanolamine moieties in the membrane in greater abundance than in A. baumannii. Lipidomic profiles show differences that may be responsible for the colistin resistance phenotype in AB222-IK40. As this is the first report of A. courvalinii from a hospital in Canada, this species may be an emerging clinical pathogen, and therefore, it is important to understand this mechanism of colistin resistance.
Hyperspectral estimation of net photosynthetic rate of winter wheat under different water and nitrogen supplies
Authors: Dai Menglei , Gu Limin , Zhang Baoyuan , Bao Xiaoyuan , Cui Yuxuan , Sun Qian , Zhang Mingzheng , Qu Xuzhou , Sun Xuguang , Zhen Wenchao , Gu Xiaohe
Published: March 2024

Photosynthesis is a vital physiological activity in winter wheat that directly influences the production and accumulation of biomass. The net photosynthetic rate is a key indicator of photosynthetic capacity. Measuring the net photosynthetic rate using traditional methods can be challenging for high-throughput real-time monitoring. Reflectance spectroscopy has been shown to predict the physiological activities of crops and can track the physiological traits. This study focused on using leaf hyperspectral reflectance to estimate the net photosynthetic rate of winter wheat under different water and nitrogen supplies. At first, we transformed the raw spectral reflectance into relevant vegetation indices and extracted sensitive features using Competitive Adaptive Reweighted Sampling (CARS) and Successive Projections Algorithm (SPA). Then, estimation models for the net photosynthetic rate were constructed using Random Forest (RF) and Partial Least Squares Regression (PLSR) methods. Finally, the performance of the eight estimation models was compared using coefficient of determination (R2) and Root Mean Square Error (RMSE). The results showed that transforming raw spectral reflectance into vegetation indices significantly improved model performance. RF showed notably higher accuracy than PLSR. The VI-SPA-RF model was most accurate, with an R2 of 0.9429 for the training set and 0.7784 for the validation set. Therefore, the leaf hyperspectral data can be used for nondestructive monitoring of the net photosynthetic rate of winter wheat in real-time.
Stepping on shells. An experimental archaeological soil micromorphology study of trampling on a modern shell midden at Swifterkamp
Authors: Kleijne Jos , Kamstra Hester , Ens Steven van
Published: March 2024

In this paper we report the study of shell midden taphonomy using archaeological soil micromorphology on an experimentally constructed shell midden. Using common cockle shells, and two different cooking techniques (boiling and roasting), we study the changes occurring in the shells, and in the soil below the shells. Our aim is to provide a clearer picture of trampling and various cooking techniques on prehistoric shell middens. Examples from Northern European contexts are provided as a comparison to our experimental analysis.
Alzheimer's Disease Diagnosis By 3D-SEConvNeXt
Authors: Hu Zhongyi , Wang Yuhang , Xiao Lei
Published: March 2024

To address the challenge of early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD), this study proposes the 3D-SEConvNeXt model. This model combines ConvNeXt with 3D convolution and introduces the 3D-SE attention module for early AD classification tasks. The experimental data is obtained from the publicly available ADNI database, and the raw Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) data is preprocessed using SPM12. The preprocessed data is then fed into the 3D-SEConvNeXt network for four classification tasks: AD/NC, MCI/NC, AD/MCI, and AD/MCI/NC. The performance of the proposed model is compared with other AD classification models. The experimental results demonstrate that the 3D-SEConvNeXt model consistently outperforms the other models in terms of accuracy, achieving excellent results in early AD diagnosis tasks.
Breathing dysfunction as a meaningful and measurable aspect of health in Rett Syndrome: A caregivers perspective
Authors: Wright Robert , Leonard-Corzo Krista S. , Li Jessica , Blankenship Jennifer M. , Richards Jennifer , Coenraads Monica , Hehn Jana , Lyden Kate , Clay Ieuan
Published: March 2024

Background
Although recent clinical trials have fueled optimism around the potential to develop novel therapies for Rett syndrome (RTT), further work is needed to identify and develop novel outcomes and measures. Breathing dysfunction is a prevalent symptom of RTT and is associated with several adverse outcomes (e.g., risk of sudden death, exacerbation of other symptoms). Yet, no studies have examined the meaningfulness and acceptability of measuring breathing dysfunction from the perspectives of caregivers. Thus, the purpose of this study was to qualitatively examine breathing dysfunction as a meaningful and measurable aspect of health in individuals with RTT.
Methods
We conducted semi-structured interviews (N = 13) with caregivers of individuals with RTT to explore experiences with and preferences for digitally measuring breathing dysfunction. We performed thematic analysis grounded in theory to examine major themes.
Results
Analysis of the interviews resulted in three main themes for experiences with breathing dysfunction: (1) meaningfulness, with three subthemes identified: does not want to become worse/wants to prevent, wants to improve, and emotional relevance; (2) impact with three subthemes identified: magnitude of impact, impact on daily activities, and impact on quality of life; and (3) connecting with other symptoms. Analysis of the interviews with respect to preferences for digitally measuring breathing dysfunction resulted in two main themes: (1) conditional willingness; and (2) benefits of digital measurement.
Conclusion
To capture meaningfulness and preferences for measuring symptoms, it is important to hear what aspects of health are important to patients and caregivers living with the symptoms. Caregivers reported that breathing dysfunction was meaningful and resulted in significant impacts on their child’s lives as well as theirs and their families. Further, caregivers reported they would be willing to digitally measure their child’s breathing dysfunction and that it would be beneficial for the “greater good” of therapeutic development. Identifying breathing dysfunction as a meaningful and measurable aspect of health for individuals with RTT is critical and lays the groundwork for guiding the development and testing of future clinical trials for managing breathing dysfunction.
Fluoride-related changes in the fetal cord blood proteome; a pilot study
Authors: Tuomivaara Sami T. , Goin Dana E. , Fisher Susan J. , Hall Steven C. , Mattis Aras N. , Besten Pamela K. Den
Published: March 2024

Background: Fluoride exposure during pregnancy has been associated with various effects on offspring, including changes in behavior and IQ. To provide clues to possible mechanisms by which fluoride affects human fetal development, we completed proteomic analyses of cord blood serum collected from second-trimester pregnant women residing in Northern California with either high or low fluoride exposure, as identified by maternal serum fluoride concentrations.
Objective: To identify changes in cord blood proteins associated with maternal serum fluoride concentration in pregnant women living in Northern California.
Methods: The proteomes of 19 archived second-trimester cord blood samples representing highest and lowest serum fluoride concentrations from a cohort of 48 women living in Northern California, previously analyzed for serum, urine and amniotic fluoride concentrations, were characterized by mass spectrometry. Proteins highly correlated to maternal serum fluoride concentrations were identified, and further compared in a group of samples from women with the highest serum fluoride to the group with the lowest maternal serum fluoride concentrations.
Results: Nine cord blood proteins were significantly correlated with maternal serum fluoride concentrations. Six of these proteins, including apolipoprotein B-100, delta homolog 1, coagulation factor X, mimecan, plasma kallikrein, and vasorin, were significantly decreased in the cord blood from women with the highest serum fluoride levels.
Conclusion: Changes in the relative amounts of second trimester cord blood proteins included proteins associated with the development of the fetal hematopoetic system.
Performance Evaluation of Bryophyllum Leaves Extract as Corrosion Inhibitor for Mild Steel in 1M Phosphoric Acid
Authors: Oyewole O. , Ogunsemi B. T. , Akinmoladun A. , Oshin T. , Adeoye J. , Otowo P. , Tunbosun A. , Oreofe T.
Published: March 2024

The severe consequences of corrosion process cause global issues most especially in petroleum refineries. This research investigates performance evaluation and optimization of bryophyllum pinnatum leaves extract for mild steel corrosion inhibition. The extract was subjected to phytochemical analysis to determine the inclusion of any bioactive component. Box Behnken design was used to optimize process variables which include Temperature (30°C-60°C), Immersion time (3–12 days), and amount of extract (0.2–0.8 g/l). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) and Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS) were used for characterization. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, saponins, alkaloids, terpenoids, and steroids. It was established from experimental results that Temperature of 30°C, Immersion time of 3 days, Inhibition concentration of 0.8g/l gave the best process, while the optimal process variables gave: Immersion time: 6.3 days, Inhibition concentration: 0.63g/l days; Temperature: 58.6°C respectively. The results of SEM, EDS and FTIR revealed that mild steel via validated optimal process level had more protective film and was formed through adsorption. Hence, Bryophyllum pinnatum extract has been established as an effective corrosion inhibitor.
Synergetic lubrication of Cross-Linked Nanocomposites and Enhanced the tribological performance of Ti-DLC film
Authors: Mou Hongjiang , Liu Wenqiu
Published: March 2024

Two-dimensional(2D) nanocomposites exhibit theoretically and experimentally considerable promise for lowering friction and dissipating energy in dry sliding. However, a significant obstacle still stands in lower friction by introducing the 2D nanocomposites in oil lubrication environment. Here, g-C3N4/GO nanocomposites with a 2D layered structure were synthesized successfully. Ti-DLC film was used to examine the tribological performance of graphene oxide (GO), graphitic carbon nitride (g-C3N4), and carbon nitride/graphene oxide (GO/g-C3N4) nanocomposites in oil. As lubrication additives, the friction-reducing and anti-wear properties of GO/g-C3N4 nanocomposites were superior than a single nanomaterial of GO or g-C3N4 nanosheets. The synergistic lubricating effect involves the easy interlayer shear resulting from the oleophilic and distinct microscopic heterojunction stacking structure of the GO/g-C3N4 nanocomposites. This led to the formation of an adsorption lubrication film containing PAO6, g-C3N4, and GO. These innovative investigations have demonstrated that adding 2D GO/g-C3N4 nanocomposites into PAO6 is an intriguing approach to improving the dependability and energy efficiency of current mechanical systems.
Synthesis and evaluation of cinnamic acid derivatives as ɑ- glucosidase inhibitors
Authors: Zhong Xin , Zhu Hua
Published: March 2024

Six cinnamic acid derivatives (1 ~ 6) were synthesized for finding potential α-glucosidase inhibitors. The structure of derivatives (1 ~ 6) were confirmed by NMR and HRMS. Inhibitory activity screening results showed that cinnamic acid derivatives (1 ~ 6) exhibited potential α-glucosidase inhibitory activity. Compound 2 showed the highest α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with IC50 value of 39.91 ± 0.62 µM. SAR results showed that introduction of substituent groups in benzene ring of cinnamic acid enhanced the α-glucosidase inhibition activity, and methyl group had the optimal gain. Inhibitory kinetics results showed compound 2 was one reversible and mixed-type inhibitor. Molecular docking results revealed that compound 2 tightly bind to active pocket of α-glucosidase and formed hydrogen bond and hydrophobic interactions with α-glucosidase.
Fusion of Midjourney and Morphological Matrix Methods for Driverless Vehicle Styling Research
Authors: Li Dan , Tao Tao
Published: March 2024

This study aims to investigate the application of the morphological matrix method in shaping the design of driverless cars and enhance its efficiency by integrating Midjourney.A database of existing driverless cars is established through data collection and analysis. The vehicles in the database are deconstructed to form the initial selection table of morphological features for driverless car design. The features are then generalized, analyzed, and reconstructed, followed by feature extraction. Subsequently, a morphological matrix incorporating design elements and styles is created. Utilizing Midjourney's powerful computing capabilities, the morphological matrix is employed to quickly generate new designs by fleshing out the original scheme. The generated driverless car designs are evaluated and optimized using superiority evaluation, resulting in a new form factor that satisfies major preferences.By integrating Midjourney into the fusion morphological matrix method, this approach addresses the time and workload issues associated with the traditional method. The solutions obtained through superiority evaluation and continuous optimization enhance the credibility of the overall design process. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for future research in this field.e inefficiency of morphological matrix method by integrating Midjourney.
CCS CONCEPTS • Applied computing • Arts and humanities • Fine arts
Method, model and application of transforming Vague set into Fuzzy set for Water conservancy system evaluation
Authors: Zhao Huaqing , Wang Hao , Zhao Ranhang , Qi Zhen , Zhang Yuanxuan
Published: March 2024

The complexity, multilevel nature, and fuzziness of water conservancy, hydrology, and water resources systems have led to the widespread use of fuzzy set theory and vague set theory in system evaluation, recognition, and decision making. In this study, we propose a model transforming vague sets into fuzzy sets realizing the organic combination of the two theories for better describing nonlinear mapping relationships within a system and handling fuzzy uncertain information. Analyzing vague set and fuzzy set's definition and geometric meaning, a mathematical model of transforming vague set into fuzzy set is established with the principle and method of hesitancy degree allocation. Then, under three different relation situations between true membership \({t}_{A}\left(x\right)\) and false membership\({f}_{A}\left(x\right)\), the mathematical proof and derivation of the model above are carried out, and the physical and geometric meanings of the transformation model are clarified, as well as, comparing and analyzing the results of different situations, the established model is verified by examples. Finally, taking the safety evaluation of Jinan urban flood control system as an example, the model is transformed and applied to verify the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed model. This study provides an effective approach to address the limitations of fuzzy sets in considering uncertain information as well as linear similarity measurement models between vague sets and advances its application in the future system management.
Eastern Europe – What Is in a Name?
Authors: Krce-Ivančić Matko
Published: March 2024

Uvriježeno je mišljenje da termin Istočna Europa nije ništa više od geografske kategorije koja označava istočni dio europskog kontinenta. Ovaj rad osporava to shvaćanje razotkrivanjem ideologije prosvjetiteljstva koja je ugrađena u naziv Istočna Europa. Prvo, istražuje epistemologiju koja nas poziva da pristupimo i pažljivo proučimo Istočnu Europu kao problematični dio europskog kontinenta. Drugo, u radu će se identificirati neki od mehanizama koji Istočnu Europu čine posebno pogodnom za upijanje različitih ideoloških izboja. Konačno, rad će ilustrirati kako se epistemologija koja Istočnoj Europi pristupa kao domeni zaostalosti također bezrezervno perpetuira na fantazmatskom teritoriju Istočne Europe.
Strategic directions of the development of higher education in Ukraine
Authors: Skydan Maksym
Published: March 2024

Modern dynamic changes affect the development of higher education. This confirms the urge to actualize quality planning considering rapid educational transformations and a significant set of challenges. The purpose of this study is to theoretically and methodologically substantiate promising strategic areas of higher education in Ukraine. The paper identifies the key aspects of the modern strategy of higher education in the context of its key trends. It highlights the critical role of strategy to support the long-term success of the higher education sector in modern conditions. The necessity of considering a wide range of interests by groups of key stakeholders in the education sector is emphasized. The paper also stresses the importance of sustainable development goals to form and implement a modern higher education strategy. It is highlighted that the modern strategy of higher education covers the whole complex of drivers of exogenous and endogenous nature, which determines the vector of development. Comparative analysis is used to determine the peculiarities of the state of modern strategies of higher education on the example of Ukrainian and Polish higher education institutions. This comparative analysis of modern strategies of higher education stresses a number of differences between the state of the strategy for Ukraine and Poland. This study may be useful for researchers and analysts in eduction sector, non-profit organizations in the field of higher education, higher education institutions, international organizations, and public and local authorities. Prospects for further research are the deepening of modern strategies of higher education in the key European integration movements of Ukraine.
Digitalization, Branding, and Network Collaboration Strategy among SMTEs: Preliminary Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Wardhani Windi Novia Ratri , Purnomo Purnomo , Pratiwi Ratih , Nasution Saipul
Published: March 2024

The primary objective of this research is to develop strategies enabling Small and Medium Tourism Enterprises (SMTEs) to effectively navigate and actively participate in digital transformation and collaborative networks. Employing a qualitative methodology with the application of Quantitative Strategic Planning Matrix (QSPM) analysis, data for this study is gathered through direct observations and interviews involving stakeholders in the tourism industry, local government, village authorities, and tourism business associations such as PHRI (Persatuan Hotel dan Restoran Indonesia) and BPW (Badan Pariwisata Wisatawan). The key findings underscore the significance of (1) fostering a positive service reputation culture, (2) involving diverse stakeholders in establishing a sustainable tourism destination management system, and (3) reinforcing tourism promotion efforts through the strategic use of expanded digital media channels. The practical implications of this research extend to providing tangible guidance for SMTEs to actively enhance their services for tourists. The distinctive contributions of this study manifest in three key dimensions. Firstly, the introduction of the service reputation culture as an innovative approach supports the evolution of novel services in the tourism industry. Secondly, it addresses the underexplored research theme of SMTEs, filling a significant knowledge gap. Thirdly, the utilization of QSPM analysis in this study showcases originality, as this analytical method is rarely employed in analogous contexts. Consequently, this research contributes unprecedented insights to the strategic understanding of SMTEs within the realm of service reputation culture, paving the way for innovative and informed approaches in the tourism industry.
Change in water quality in an Amazonian microbasin: ecological and human health implications
Authors: Batista Louisiane Farias , Rocha do Nascimento Thiago Shinaigger , Costa Igor , Correa Edinelson Saldanha , Monte Christiane do Nascimento
Published: March 2024

The decline in the quality of water resources in the Amazon is very rapid in cities suffering from unplanned urban growth. The region has two defined seasons, winter (wet) and summer (dry), which directly affect the behavior of contaminants in aquatic ecosystems. The aim of this study was to assess the ecological and human health risks associated with the use of the watershed. In addition, an ecological index was proposed: the Quality Index for Aquatic Life, for the risk of contaminants to aquatic life. Sampling was carried out at six points in the Juá watershed. Physicochemical parameters, major anions, metals and total phosphorus were analyzed at both stations between 2020 and 2021. The highest concentrations of contaminants were found in the rainy season, due to the washing away of the banks. In this sense, Cl presented a concentration more than 307 times higher than that permitted by Brazilian legislation (wet). The ecological index showed that the watershed has a high risk of metals such as Cr III and Cr VI for the biota. The human health risk analysis showed a low risk; however, the lack of basic sanitation in the city indicates that monitoring of urban water resources is necessary.
Safe water crisis and struggle of climate-vulnerable indigenous communities in southwestern coastal Bangladesh
Authors: Shohel Tunvir Ahamed , Heme Morsheda Akter , Shovo Taufiq-E-Ahmed , Nasrin Nishad , Asha Aisha Rahman , Rahman T. M. Rafat , Hossain Md. Tanvir
Published: March 2024

This study was designed to unearth the beliefs, practices, and management of safe drinking water of Munda and Rajbangshi indigenous communities. To apprehend the safe drinking water-related behaviour and practice, the qualitative approach was followed where 20 in-depth interviews were carried out among the Munda and Rajbangshi communities in Shyamnagar and Kaliganj Upazila (sub-district) of Satkhira district, Bangladesh. Findings indicate that the intrusion of saline water due to climate-induced changes led to a scarcity of potable water for both communities in the last few decades. Despite the existence of centuries-old traditional practices of water purification, the indigenous communities, particularly women, were compelled to collect safe drinking water from, in general, distant sources as the other sources of water were contaminated with saline water. Despite their collective efforts, managing safe water sometimes, particularly in the rainy season, becomes impossible for these marginalized people as it costs a considerable amount of household income. To ensure their access to safe drinking water and to explore the underlying factors, whether social, economic, cultural or environmental, initiatives from both government and non-government organizations are required for a sustainable life for these unheard plain land indigenous communities in Bangladesh.