bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Robust Biomarkers for the Diagnosis and Subtype Distinction of Inflammatory Bowel Disease through Comprehensive Serum Metabolomic Profiling
Authors: Kim Ji Eun , Suh Dong Ho , Park Yu Jin , Oh Chi Hyuk , Oh Shin Ju , Kang Hyeji , Ji Yosep , Kim Young Jin , Kim Weon , Jung Eun Sung , Lee Chang Kyun
Published: March 2024

Background Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), presents diagnostic challenges owing to overlapping clinical presentations. This study aimed to delineate specific serum metabolomic biomarkers that differentiate IBD patients from healthy controls and further discriminate between CD and UC. Methods We enrolled a total of 346 participants, including 134 with CD, 124 with UC, and 88 normal controls (NC). Serum samples and their clinical metadata were systematically collected. Untargeted profiling was performed with Gas Chromatography-Time-Of-Flight-Mass Spectrometry, and targeted profiling of bile acids and tryptophan used Liquid Chromatography-Triple Quadrupole-Mass Spectrometry. The identification of distinct metabolites and potential biomarkers of IBD patients from NC and that of CD patients from UC were achieved through extensive univariate and multivariate statistical analyses which supplemented by Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves, pathways, and network analyses. Results Distinct clustering separated IBD patients from the NC, although the CD and UC subgroups overlapped in the non-targeted profiling. Targeted metabolomics revealed elevated tryptophan and indole-3-acetic acid levels in CD and UC patients. Increased kynurenine and indole-3-propionic acid levels were unique to CD, whereas UC was characterized by decreased indole-3-acetic acid, serotonin, and acetylcholine levels. Both IBD subtypes exhibited reduced primary-to-secondary bile acid ratios compared with the NC. The ROC analysis underscored the discriminatory power of the biomarkers (AUC values: NC vs. CD = 0.9738; NC vs. UC = 0.9887; UC vs. CD = 0.7140). Pathway analysis revealed alterations in glycerolipid metabolism, markedly differentiating UC from CD. Beta-alanine, arginine, and proline metabolism were linked to IBD compared to NCs. Network analysis correlated metabolomic markers with the clinical phenotypes of IBD. Conclusion Serum metabolomic biomarkers offer promising avenues for the diagnosis and subtype differentiation of IBD. Targeted metabolomics analysis is critical for distinguishing CD from UC.
Clinical features and outcomes of unresectable locally advanced non-small cell lung cancer with uncommon EGFR Mutations: A retrospective multi-center Chinese study
Authors: Xu Kunpeng , Zheng XiaoLi , Chen Ming , E Mingyan , Zhang Li , Cao Jianzhong , Zhang Xu , Ding Xiao , Xia Bing , Zhao Lujun , Han Lijie , Li Jiancheng , Hu Chen , Jiang Wei , Ge Hong , Bi Nan , Wang Luhua
Published: March 2024

ntroduction:
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations forms a distinct subgroup. The optimal management for uncommon EGFR mutant locally advanced NSCLC remains uncertain. This study aims to investigate the clinical features and outcomes.
Methods:
A multi-center retrospective study was conducted to review 511 patients with EGFR mutant unresectable stage III NSCLC between 2012 and 2018 from 12 Chinese institutions. The study analyzed the characteristics, prognostic factors, and treatment outcomes for these patients with common and uncommon mutation (excluding 19del or 21L858R). The patients were divided into three groups based on their primary treatment: chemoradiation (CRT), EGFR-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR-TKIs), and radiation therapy (RT) with EGFR-TKIs.
The results
Of 49 (9.6%) patients had uncommon mutation, including single exon 18 G719X, exon 20 insertion, exon 20 S768I, T790M, and exon 21 L861Q, present in 22.4%, 18.4%, 8.2%, 8.2%, and 4.1% of patients, respectively. Compound mutations were found in 34.7% of patients. There was a significant difference in PFS based on EGFR mutation status (median 11.9 vs. 17.5 months, P = 0.005). However, no difference was found in OS (P = 0.143). The median PFS for the uncommon mutation group was 11.9, 5.0, and 14.8 months for CRT, EGFR-TKI, and RT+TKIs, respectively (P=0.027). The median OS for the same groups was 43.6, 30.9, and NR months (P=0.179). Compared to EGFR-TKIs, CRT and RT+TKIs significantly improved PFS (P= 0.022, 0.042), and showed a trend towards superior OS compared to upfront TKIs (P= 0.487, 0.065). Among common mutations, RT+EGFR-TKIs achieved the longest PFS and OS compared to the CRT or EGFR-TKIs group.
Conclusions:
This study provides a systematic and first summary of the clinical features and outcomes of patients with unresectable local advanced NSCLC and EGFR uncommon mutations. The results suggest that RT combined with next-generation EGFR-TKIs may be a promising treatment option. It is recommended that EGFR-TKIs not be used as the primary treatment for patients with uncommon EGFR mutations.
Loss of staminodes in Aquilegia jonesii reveals a fading stamen-staminode boundary
Authors: Johns Jason , Min Ya , Ballerini Evangeline , Kramer Elena , Hodges Scott
Published: March 2024

The modification of fertile stamens into sterile staminodes has occurred independently many times in the flowering plant lineage. In the genus Aquilegia (columbine) and its closest relatives, the two stamen whorls closest to the carpels have been converted to staminodes. In Aquilegia, the only genetic analyses of staminode development have been reverse genetic approaches revealing that B-class floral identity genes are involved. A. jonesii, the only species of columbine where staminodes have reverted to fertile stamens, allows us to explore the genetic architecture of staminode development using a forward genetic approach. We performed QTL analysis using an outcrossed F2 population between A. jonesii and a horticultural variety that makes fully developed staminodes, A. coerulea ‘Origami’. Our results reveal a polygenic basis for staminode loss where the two staminode whorls are under some level of independent control. We also discovered that staminode loss in A. jonesii is not complete, in which staminode-like traits sometimes occur in the inner fertile stamens, potentially representing a fading boundary of gene expression. The QTLs identified in this study provide a map to guide future reverse genetic and functional studies examining the genetic basis and evolutionary significance of this trait.
Patients on Antithrombotic Agents with Small Bowel Bleeding –Yield of Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy and Subsequent Management
Authors: Damjanovska Sofi , Karb Daniel , Chen Allen , Margevicius Seunghee , Fu Pingfu , Isenberg Gerard
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims
Small bowel gastrointestinal bleeding (GIB) is associated with multiple blood transfusions, prolonged and/or multiple hospital admissions, utilization of significant healthcare resources, and negative effects on patient quality of life. There is a well-recognized association between antithrombotic medications and small bowel GIB. We aimed to identify the diagnostic yield of small bowel capsule endoscopy (SBCE) in patients on antithrombotic medications and the impact of SBCE on treatment course.
Methods
The electronic medical records of nineteen hundred eighty-six patients undergoing SBCE were retrospectively reviewed.
Results
The diagnostic yield for detecting stigmata of recent bleeding and/or actively bleeding lesions in SBCE was higher in patients that were on antiplatelet agents (21.6%), patients on anticoagulation (22.5%), and in patients that had their SBCE performed while they were inpatient (21.8%), when compared to the patients not on antiplatelet agents (12.1%), patients not on anticoagulation (13.5%), and with patients that had their SBCE performed in the outpatient setting (12%). Of 318 patients who had stigmata of recent bleeding and/or actively bleeding lesion(s) identified on SBCE, SBCE findings prompted endoscopic evaluation (small bowel enteroscopy, esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), and/or colonoscopy) in 25.2%, with endoscopic hemostasis attempted in 52.5%.
Conclusions
Our study, the largest conducted to date, emphasizes the importance of performing SBCE as part of the evaluation for suspected small bowel bleeding, particularly in patients taking antithrombotic therapy, and especially during their inpatient hospital stay.
GCAM: Gaussian and causal-attention model of food fine-grained recognition
Authors: Zhuang Guohang , Hu Yue , Yan Tianxing , Gao Jiazhang
Published: March 2024

Currently, most food recognition relies on deep learning for category classification. However, these approaches struggle to effectively distinguish between visually similar food samples, highlighting the pressing need to address fine-grained issues in food recognition. To address these issues, we advocate for a Gaussian and causal-attention model specifically designed for nuanced object recognition. This model involves training to capture Gaussian characteristics in targeted areas, followed by extracting detailed features from the objects, thus improving the target regions’ feature mapping capabilities. To counter data drift caused by skewed data distributions, we implement a counterfactual reasoning strategy. Through counterfactual interventions, the effect of the learned image attention mechanism on network predictions is examined, allowing for the optimization of attention weights in detailed image recognition. A learnable loss strategy is also developed to ensure consistent training across various modules, thereby enhancing the precision of the ultimate recognition task. Our method has been validated on four 1 pertinent datasets, where it demonstrated superior performance. Specifically, the Gaussian and Causal-Attention Model (GCAM) has outperformed existing state-of-the-art methods on the ETH-FOOD101, UECFOOD256, and Vireo-FOOD172 datasets and achieved leading results on the CUB-200 dataset.
Climate Model Ensembles to Evaluate the Impact of Climate Change on Yield and Water Use Efficiency of Different Dry-Season Rice Varieties Cultivated under Conventional and Alternative Wetting and Drying (AWD) Conditions
Authors: Phoeurn Chan Arun , Degré Aurore , Oeurng Chantha , Ket Pinnara
Published: March 2024

To address water scarcity, enhancing water use efficiency, especially for dry-season rice cultivation, is crucial, especially in the context of climate change. Alternative Wetting and Drying (AWD) irrigation has been effective in conserving water in various regions. However, there is a lack of research on the feasibility of AWD as a potential technique for climate adaptation. This is the first-ever attempt to utilize the AquaCrop model in evaluating the effects of climate change on different rice varieties cultivated under AWD irrigation, employing climate model ensembles for the mid-century period (2041–2070) based on the most recent emission scenarios within the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6). Field experiments were conducted in 2023 to get the input for calibrating and validating the AquaCrop. We adopted SSP3-7.0 and SSP5-8.5 to represent medium and highest greenhouse gas emissions. For each scenario, we applied 4 different GCMs. The ensemble-model projection indicated that rice grown longer than 94 DAT is more prone to damage in the future. The ensemble-model projection indicated that rice grown longer than 94 DAT is more prone to damage in the future. In our case, grain yields of CAR15 and Sen Kra Ob were reduced and more than 60–70% of these two varieties were damaged under SSP3-7.0 scenarios, and between 33% − 50% were damaged under SSP5-8.5. OM5451 and Sen Pidor are the suitable varieties selected to adapt to climate change. In terms of WUE, AWD is a promising technique to save water in the future.
Mendelian randomization studies do not support the causal relationships between iron status and Intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Geng Maosen , Wang Kao , Zhang Jiayang , Yang Yin
Published: March 2024

1. Introduction
Context:Intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is an important contributor of low back pain, which represents one of the most disabling symptoms within the adult population.Recently, increasing evidence suggests the potential association between iron status and IVDD. However, the causal relationship between these two common diseases remains unclear.We investigated the causal effects of four iron metabolism markers, regular iron supplementation and IVDD.
2. Methods:
We conducted a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to assess the causal association between iron status and IVDD[1]. Sensitivity analysis was performed to test for heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy.
3. Results
The genetically instrumented iron (odds ratio [OR]: 1.03; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.97–1.11; P=0.27)； ferritin(OR: 1.17; 95% CI: 0.99–1.38; P=0.07)； Liver iron content (OR: 1.04; 95% CI: 0.98–1.11; P=0.22)；Tranferrein(OR: 0.99; 95% CI: 0.91–1.08; P=0.85)；Tranferrein stautas (OR:1.02; 95% CI: 0.98–1.08; P=0.34)or supplement iron(OR:0.91; 95% CI: 0.79–1.05; P=0.18) showed no causal relationships with IVDD.No pleiotropic bias was found in the MR analyses. As heterogeneity was significant, a random model was used to minimize the effect of heterogeneity.
4. Conclusions
No causal associations existed between iron status and IVDD. iron status and IVDD may represent separate entities.
Synthesis and thermodynamic properties of nano magnesium borate MgBO 2 (OH) with three different morphologies
Authors: Bi Jingxin , Feng Xiaoqin , Zheng Jia , Cen Fanglong , Zhang Hongyan , Huang Hongsheng
Published: March 2024

MgBO2(OH) with flower-like, sea urchin-like, and rice panicle-like morphologies have been synthesized and characterized by XRD, FI-IR, SEM and TEM. The molar enthalpies of solution of MgBO2(OH) with different morphologies in 3.00 mol·L− 1 HCl(aq) were measured. With the incorporation of the previously determined enthalpy of solution of H3BO3 in 3.00 mol·L− 1 HCl(aq), the enthalpy of solution of MgO in (HCl + H3BO3)(aq) and the standard molar enthalpies of formation of MgO(s), H3BO3(s) and H2O(l), the standard molar enthalpies of formation of MgBO2(OH) with flower-like, sea urchin-like, and rice panicle-like morphologies were calculated to be -(1465.40 ± 1.44), -(1464.32 ± 1.31) and − (1476.62 ± 1.46) kJ·mol− 1, respectively. The results show that the morphology and crystal structure of the sample have an effect on its standard molar enthalpy of formation, and the crystal structure has a greater influence.
Glycemic Comparison Index (GCI): A Retrospective Analysis of its Prognostic Value in ICU Patients with AMI and Diabetes
Authors: She Yingfang , Wang Chunfei , Fu Le , Luo Liang , Li Yide
Published: March 2024

Background: Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) significantly impacts global health, particularly in individuals with diabetes, highlighting the necessity for specialized glycemic management. This study introduces the Glycemic Comparison Index (GCI), a novel prognostic tool for AMI patients with diabetes, aiming to improve glucose management in critical care.
Methods: A single-center retrospective analysis was conducted using data from the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (MIMIC-IV) database, focusing on ICU patients with concurrent AMI and diabetes. GCI was calculated by comparing mean blood glucose levels in the ICU to baseline glucose levels, with patients stratified into tertiles based on their GCI scores. The primary outcome assessed was one-year all-cause mortality, with secondary outcomes including hospital mortality, ICU-free days, and hypoglycemic events.
Results: Among 622 patients, the high GCI group exhibited significantly higher one-year all-cause mortality (37% vs. 19% and 18% in medium and low groups, respectively; p < 0.001) and fewer ICU-free days within 28 days (p = 0.007). Conversely, the low GCI group was associated with an increased risk of hypoglycemia (44% vs. 29% and 15% in medium and high groups, respectively; p < 0.001). After adjusting for confounders, the high GCI group demonstrated a significantly elevated risk of one-year mortality compared to the medium and low group. Time-dependent ROC analysis confirmed GCI's prognostic value, with AUC values ranging from 0.671 at one month to 0.634 at 12 months.
Conclusions: Higher GCI values are associated with increased one-year mortality and fewer ICU-free days in AMI patients with diabetes, whereas lower GCI values correlate with a higher risk of hypoglycemia. The GCI shows potential as a personalized prognostic tool, pending further validation
Association analysis using the mining of positive and negative association rules
Authors: Van Thanh Do , Thi Ha Dinh , Duc Phuong Truong
Published: March 2024

Association analysis using the mining of positive and negative association rules (PNARs) has so far been mainly based on mining rules of forms A⇒B, A⇒ℸB, ℸA⇒B, and ℸA⇒ℸB. These are called narrow PNARs (NPNARs). Most existing algorithms for mining NPNARs usually exploit the upward closure property of negative itemsets, while few exploit the downward closure property. NPNARs mined by algorithms built under the first approach are inconsistent with human thinking and unsuitable for explaining association analysis. NPNARs mined by algorithms under the second approach are consistent with human thinking, but generally, they are just positive association rules or negative dependency relationships and are not intuitively described as the NPNARs above. Thus, they are confusing and difficult to interpret. So far, no algorithm built under both approaches has found all valid NPNARs. This work proposes an algorithm based solely on (positive) items in transaction databases under the second approach to mine NPNARs. The algorithm is developed based on equivalence classes and the support-confidence framework. Two phases of the association rule mining process are executed concurrently. The algorithm is sound and complete. Its computational complexity is also estimated. The experiment shows the application prospect of the proposed algorithm in the association analysis of co-occurrence and non-co-occurrence events.
Nw-mexvel: a Gps Crustal Deformation Model Based on Green's Functions for Northwestern Mexico
Authors: Hernández-Andrade Daniel , Cobos María Clara de Lacy Pérez-de los , Romero-Andrade Rosendo , Auvinet-Guichard Gabriel , Méndez-Sánchez Edgar , Trejo-Soto Manuel Edwiges
Published: March 2024

The research examines and describes the interaction between the Pacific and North American Plates in Northwest Mexico using 12 years (2010-2021) of Global Positioning System (GPS) data from 33 free access continuous operating reference stations. The data was processed by GAMIT/GLOBK to contribute to the kinematic knowledge of this tectonic interaction. A bidimensional crustal deformation model was developed on a 15' x 15' grid based on Green's functions and elastic coupling. The proposed model NW-MEXVEL has been evaluated by direct point-to-point validation considering as a reference the GEODVEL global model. The displacements obtained in the NW-MEXVEL model adjusted to the ITRF14 are reliable for movements greater than 0.127 mm/year based on the root mean square error (RMSE) of modeled velocities versus measured velocities. Similarly, the model NW-MEXVEL for each tectonic plate has reliability for displacements over the Pacific Plate greater than 0.068 mm/year and for the North American Plate greater than 0.067 mm/year, even in the islands of the Gulf of California (Angel and Tiburon) and Guadalupe Island on the Pacific Plate. This is given by its estimation with regional data located in critical zones, in contrast to the global tectonic model. Finally, from the velocity fields, an average displacement was obtained of 44.72 ± 0.29 mm/year in the Northwest direction for the Pacific Plate fixed to the North American Plate and 45.34 ± 0.18 mm/year in the Southeast direction for the North American Plate fixed to the Pacific Plate. These velocity results are in agreement with previous studies.
Current-driven dynamics of antiferromagnetic skyrmions: from skyrmion Hall effects to hybrid inter-skyrmion scattering
Authors: Aldarawsheh Amal , Sallermann Moritz , Abusaa Muayad , Lounis Samir
Published: March 2024

Antiferromagnetic (AFM) skyrmions have emerged as a highly promising avenue in the realm of spintronics, particularly for the development of advanced racetrack memory devices. A distinguishing feature of AFM skyrmions is their zero topological charge and hence anticipated zero skyrmion Hall effect (SkHE). Here, we unveil that the latter is surprisingly finite under the influence of spin-transfer torque, depending on the direction of the injected current impinging on intrinsic AFM skyrmions emerging in CrPdFe trilayer on Ir(111) surface. Hinging on first-principles combined with atomistic spin dynamics simulations, we identify origin of the SkHE and uncover that FM skyrmions in the underlying Fe layer act as effective traps for AFM skyrmions, confining them and reducing their velocity. These findings hold significant promise for spintronic applications, the design of multi-purpose skyrmion-tracks, advancing our understanding of AFM-FM skyrmion interactions and hybrid soliton dynamics in heterostructures.
Modelling the Impact of Culling Stray Dogs on the Probability of Rabies Elimination
Authors: Kambuwa Mervin , Maliyoni Milliward , Kadaleka Solomon
Published: March 2024

We formulate and analyse a stochastic epidemic model for the dynamics of rabies in both humans and stray dogs. The stochastic model, a continuous-time Markov chain, is based on the corresponding deterministic model. Analytical results show that the disease-free equilibrium is both locally and globally asymptotically stable and the endemic equilibrium is locally stable. The stochastic threshold for rabies extinction is computed using the Galton-Watson branching process and conditions for disease extinction or persistence are presented. The probability of rabies extinction obtained from the numerical simulations is in good agreement with the probability of rabies extinction from the Galton-Watson branching process. A sensitivity analysis is performed to determine the key parameters in the dynamics of rabies and to investigate the impact of culling on the probability of rabies extinction. The results of the sensitivity analysis show that the culling parameter is one of the significant parameters in the dynamics and control of rabies. We also observe from the sensitivity analysis that increasing and decreasing the value of the culling parameter increases and decreases the probability of rabies extinction, respectively.
First-difference panel VAR model applied to diamond-exporting countries
Authors: Sandambi Nerhum
Published: March 2024

Meanwhile, a first-difference panel VAR model is used, applied to the 56 diamond-exporting countries, mostly from the Kimberley process, from 2004-2022. Through the Impulse Response Functions, an attempt was made to capture the most relevant exogenous shocks in the international markets, particularly the international diamond markets. The Impulse Response Functions show, however, that the exogenous shocks are not relevant due to the price of diamonds per carat. The results also show that there are strong reasons for the economic resilience of the largest diamond producers, particularly Botswana, even though there is evidence of negative shocks at the outset. On the other hand, positive shocks have a positive impact on diamond exports, mainly associated with positive stimuli in production, and are strongly correlated with positive endogenous shocks. Negative exogenous trade policy shocks were also quantified, but the results show no influence on export levels. On the other hand, there were sharp declines which are initially supported by negative exchange rate shocks, given the volatility of the exchange rate markets, but which suggest a significant slowdown in diamond export levels.
JEL classification: c01; c21; c23; c33; F10.
Synthetic Meets Authentic: Leveraging Text-to-Image Generated Datasets for Apple Detection in Orchard Environments
Authors: Sapkota Ranjan , Ahmed Dawood , Karkee Manoj
Published: March 2024

Training machine learning (ML) models for computer vision-based object detection process typically requires large, labeled datasets, a process often burdened by significant human effort and high costs associated with imaging systems and image acquisition. This research aimed to simplify image data collection for object detection in orchards by avoiding traditional fieldwork with different imaging sensors. Utilizing OpenAI's DALLE, a large language model (LLM) for realistic image generation, we generated and annotated a cost effective dataset. This dataset, exclusively generated with text-to-image prompts/inputs, was then utilized to train a deep learning model, YOLOv8, for apple detection, which was then tested with real-world (outdoor orchard) images captured by a digital (Nikon D5100) camera as well as a machine vision camera (IntelRealsense D435i). The model achieved a training precision of 0.83, recall of 0.99, an F1 score of 0.92, and mAP@50 at 0.96. Validation tests against actual images collected over two different varieties of apples (Honeycrisp and Envy) in a commercial orchard environment showed a precision of 0.82 and 0.75, recall of 0.88 and 0.63, and mAP@50 of 0.92 and 0.70, each respectively. The inference time of the model was 0.015 seconds for the digital camera-based images and 0.012 seconds for the machine vision camera based images. This study presents a pathway for generating large image datasets in challenging agricultural fields with minimal or no labor-intensive efforts in field data-collection, which could accelerate the development and deployment of computer vision and robotic technologies in orchard environments.
Condition Assessment of Concrete Structures using Automated Crack Detection Method for Different Concrete Surface Types Based on Image Processing
Authors: Shalaby Yasmin M. , Badawy Mohamed , Ebrahim Gamal A. , Abdelalim Ahmed Mohammed
Published: March 2024

In the inspection and diagnosis of concrete construction, crack detection is highly recommended in the earliest phases to prevent any potential risks later. However, the flaws in concrete surfaces cannot be reliably and effectively identified using traditional crack detection techniques. The suggested algorithm is a supportive tool for agents or authorities to use in crack detection mechanisms to monitor and assess the current condition of buildings or bridges. The researchers aim to establish an intelligent model for automatic crack detection on different concrete surfaces based on image processing technology. Three different concrete surfaces—bridge decks, walls, and concrete cubes—are used to test the model. A subset of the public dataset of bridge decks and walls from SDNET (2018) and 150*150*150 mm of concrete cubes taken from the material laboratory of the faculty of engineering at Ain Shams University are applied to the model. The model F1-score measures are 98.87%, 97.43%, and 74.11% for detecting cracks in bridges, walls, and concrete cubes, respectively. The validation of the applicability of the suggested novel approach is based on a comparison with recent methods for crack recognition. The contribution of this study is that it could be applied efficiently to three different types of concrete surfaces. The proposed method is transparent in its workflow and has a lower computational cost compared with deep learning frameworks.
MERKEL CELL CARCINOMA: A CASE REPORT
Authors:   Department of Pathology of the Military Hospital of Rabat, Morocco., Imane Tazi , Reda El Ochi Mohamed ,   Department of Pathology of the Military Hospital of Rabat, Morocco., El Ktaibi Abderrahim ,   Department of Pathology of the Military Hospital of Rabat, Morocco., Allaoui Mohamed ,   Department of Pathology of the Military Hospital of Rabat, Morocco., Chahdi Hafsa ,   Department of Pathology of the Military Hospital of Rabat, Morocco., Damiri Amal ,   Department of Pathology of the Military Hospital of Rabat, Morocco., Oukabli Mohamed ,   Department of Pathology of the Military Hospital of Rabat, Morocco.
Published: March 2024

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare but highly agressive skin tumor. MCC clinically represents as cutaneous or subcutaneous nodule, and in 30% of the cases loco-regional metastasis are already there in primary diagnosis. Pathogenesis is essentially due to excessive exposure to UV light. The confirmation diagnosis is based on histological and immunological features on the lesion. The treatment methods require a complete surgical excision and radiotherapy.
STREE BEEJ AND ITS ROLE IN INFERTILITY - A CASE STUDY
Authors:   Asst. Professor, Rachana Sharir, Late B.V. Kale &Manjara Ayurved College & Hospital, Latur., Anand Pawar Sumol , Madhukar Mamale Amardeep ,   PG Scholar, Rachana Sharir, Late B.V. Kale &Manjara Ayurved College & Hospital, Latur.
Published: March 2024

This case study explores the Ayurvedic concept of Stree Beej, emphasizing its pivotal role in addressing infertility. Examining the complex relationship between the doshas (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and Stree Beej, which is the female reproductive seed, the research explores imbalances that result in infertility. An in-depth analysis of a particular case clarifies the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments, such as Shatavari, which are herbal therapies. The results highlight the need of reestablishing doshic balance in order to improve Stree Beej vitality and provide important new information on Ayurvedas comprehensive approach to treating infertility with customized remedies and lifestyle modifications.
EXTRAGENITAL LICHEN SCLEROSUS ET ATROPHICUS : A CASE REPORT
Authors:   Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Hospital Center IbnSina, University of Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco., Elomari Alaoui Meryem , Fliti Amani ,   Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Hospital Center IbnSina, University of Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco., Boujida Ismail ,   Department of Histopathology, University Hospital Center IbnSina, University of Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco., Meziane Mariame ,   Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Hospital Center IbnSina, University of Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco., Znati Kaoutar ,   Department of Histopathology, University Hospital Center IbnSina, University of Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco., Benzekri Laila ,   Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Hospital Center IbnSina, University of Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco., Ismaili Nadia ,   Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Hospital Center IbnSina, University of Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco., Senouci Karima ,   Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University Hospital Center IbnSina, University of Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco.
Published: March 2024

Lichen sclerosus et atrophicus (LSA) most commonly presents as atrophic plaques in the genital region but rarely can occur in extra-genital locations (1), reportedly present in 6% to 20% of patients. Its a pathology that can be underdiagnosed and under-treated. The diagnosis should be confirmed with a skin biopsy, and early, thorough treatment should be initiated.(2)We report a case of lichen sclerosus et atrophicus in a woman with purely cutaneous involvement.
RISE OF E-SPORTS AND GAMING: BALANCING SCREEN TIME WITH PHYSICAL ACTIVITY
Authors:   Assistant Professor, Regional College of Physical Education, Panisagar, Tripura., Dev Choudhury Rahul , Ch Nath Sukanta ,   Assistant Professor, Govt. Degree College, Dharmanagar, Tripura., Nath Debraj ,   Research Scholar, Regional College of Physical Education, Panisagar, Tripura., Hinoca Assumi K. ,   Assistant Professor, Kros College, Kohima, Nagaland.
Published: March 2024

The brief overview highlighted the evolving realm of e-sports and gaming, emphasizing the ascent of competitive play, its effect on health and wellbeing, and the necessity to adapt public strategies to the digital arena. It examined the growth of e-sports, the issues linked to extended screen time, and the value of promoting physical exercise among gamers. The summary underscored movements and predictions in e-sports, such as continuing expansion, mainstream acceptance, diversification of titles, mobile gaming prominence, increased professionalism, integration of emerging technologies, and regional spread. Furthermore, it explored ways to adapt public health initiatives to the digital space, like digital health promotion, online psychological help, digital literacy and health education, epidemiological monitoring, and policy and regulation. The abstract underscored the importance of balancing screen time with physical activity and cultivating a culture of health and wellness in the e-sports community amid technological advancements and evolving trends.
Mulheres agricultoras, empreendedorismo e sucessão familiar: uma análise na perspectiva da inovação social
Authors: Balestrin Nelita Cristiane Tagliari , Agostini Manuela Rosing , Breitenbach Raquel
Published: March 2024

A relevância social e econômica da mulher agricultora, especialmente na agricultura familiar, vem sendo cada vez mais reconhecida. Entretanto, o contexto é ainda de prevalência masculina. Um dos aspectos que contribui para uma redução dessas diferenças sociais, bem como para o empoderamento feminino, é a atuação empreendedora das mulheres agricultoras. Quando as mulheres acessam o controle produtivo e a gestão de atividades dentro da propriedade rural, inclusive sendo responsáveis pela comercialização, sua autonomia e poder aumentam, reduzindo diferenças entre os gêneros. Considerando esse contexto, a presente pesquisa teve como objetivo compreender as características da sucessão familiar à luz das lentes teóricas da inovação social e do empreendedorismo feminino. Para isso foram observados cinco fatores: aspectos pessoais; financeiros; educacionais; familiares; e de políticas públicas. Trata-se de uma pesquisa de abordagem quanti e qualitativa, com estudo de caso. O escopo do estudo foi mulheres agricultoras familiares-empreendedoras do município de Getúlio Vargas - RS. Conclui-se que o protagonismo das mulheres na agricultura familiar influencia positivamente a permanência das filhas no campo. Para promover a igualdade de gênero, deverá se reconhecer e favorecer o protagonismo das mulheres na produção, gestão, comercialização e acesso às políticas públicas, estimulando e apoiando a geração de renda das mulheres, valorizando conhecimentos existentes, reconhecendo-as como participantes ativas da economia, garantindo direitos, oportunidades e participação nas decisões da propriedade.
A Implementação dos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) nos Municípios Brasileiros: uma análise do projeto localizando os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) no Brasil
Authors: Eberhardt Fani Lúcia Martendal , Mantovaneli Junior Oklinger
Published: March 2024

A agenda 2030 é o desafio em vigor, que no Brasil é compartilhado com os municípios, que precisam adequar os objetivos globais para a escala local. Pensando nisso, a CNM e ART Pnud firmaram parceria em 2016 para o desenvolvimento do projeto Localizando os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS) no Brasil.  O projeto gerou dois guias, uma página virtual, e a ferramenta Mandala. Este estudo mostra que as cooperações e parcerias entre diferentes atores e instituições, por meio da governança territorial, representam uma alternativa estratégica na implementação dos ODS. Com o intuito de verificar de que forma ocorreu o fomento a governança territorial no projeto Localizando os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável no Brasil, tem-se como o objetivo geral: analisar o projeto Localizando os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável no Brasil. Como específicos: contextualizar a atuação da CNM na implementação dos ODS nos municípios brasileiros, período 2016 a 2022; detalhar o projeto Localizando os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável no Brasil; e identificar a indicação da governança territorial nos produtos do projeto em estudo. Essa pesquisa é um estudo de caso, que teve entrevistas semiestruturadas aplicadas com 13 pessoas, e interpretadas por meio da análise de conteúdo. Constatou-se que o projeto auxilia na implementação dos ODS nos municípios, com esclarecimentos, sugestão de metodologia, ferramenta de mensuração, entre outros. Identificou-se que nos dois guias há indicação do fomento a governança territorial para auxiliar na consecução dos ODS. Este artigo é a comunicação científica de resultados parciais da tese de doutoramento do autor1.
Sürdürülebilirlikte İleri Dönüşüm ve Kolektif İş Birliği Örneği; “Re-Love”
Authors: Er Bıyıklı Nuray , Saatçıoğlu Kenan , Yaykıran Sezgin Seyhan Elvan , Celik Sinem
Published: March 2024

Bu çalışmada, önemli bir hazır giyim markası olan Yargıcı’nın kolektif iş birliği sonucunda oluşturduğu “Re-Love” adlı ileri dönüşüm koleksiyonunun tanıtılması amaçlanmıştır. Amaç doğrultusunda, öncelikle ileri dönüşüm ve kolektif iş birliği kavramları açıklanmış ve tartışılmış, sonrasında ise ileri dönüşüm konusuna özgün bir yaklaşım getiren markanın koleksiyonuna ilişkin tasarım ve üretim süreçlerine değinilmiştir. Bu çalışmada, “Yargıcı markası sürdürülebilirlik kavramının önemli bir kısmını oluşturan ileri dönüşüm konusuna nasıl yaklaşmış ve bu kavramı “Re-Love” koleksiyonunda nasıl değerlendirmiştir?” araştırma sorusuna cevap aranmıştır. Markanın tasarım ekibi ve kolektif bir iş birliği süreci yürüttüğü diğer paydaşlarla görüşmeler yapılmış ve görüşmelerden elde edilen geri dönüşler, betimsel araştırma yönteminin bir parçası olarak çalışmada değerlendirilerek yansıtılmıştır. Yapılan çalışmanın önemli bir hazır giyim markasının sürdürülebilirlik kavramına yaklaşımını ortaya koyması açısından önem taşıdığı düşünülmektedir.
ESTRATÉGIAS DE ENSINO MEDIADAS POR TECNOLOGIAS NAS ESCOLAS DO CAMPO NA GEOGRAFIA ESCOLAR
Authors: Faria Jardielly , Medeiros Francely Dantas de Sousa , Silva Jeane Medeiros , Garcia Tânia Cristina Meira , Sobrinho Djanni Martinho dos Santos , Garcia Tulia Fernanda Meira
Published: March 2024

Considerando as possibilidades de estratégias pedagógicas mediadas por tecnologias utilizadas no Ensino de Geografia, objetivou-se analisar as estratégias metodológicas mediadas por tecnologias utilizadas pelos professores das escolas do campo no município de São José do Bonfim - Paraíba. Para a construção deste trabalho, realizou-se pesquisa bibliográfica e documental com abordagem descritiva. No tocante à coleta de dados, utilizou-se dos planos de ensino elaborados pelos docentes no ano de 2022. Foram investigados quatro planos de ensino de salas de aulas multisseriadas de 3º, 4º e 5º anos do Ensino Fundamental. Sendo assim, foi possível constatar que existe uma limitação quanto ao uso de estratégias de ensino mediadas por tecnologias nas aulas de Geografia nos documentos analisados, uma vez que os professores, ao fazerem uso das tecnologias, utilizam-na para reproduzir os conteúdos trabalhados na escola, não oportunizando aos estudantes o desenvolvimento do seu protagonismo.
Application of Omics and Bioinformatics Technologies in Response to COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Aga Abebe Mengesha , Woldesemayat Adugna Abdi
Published: March 2024

The medical biotechnology community has undertaken significant endeavors to gain a comprehensive understanding of SARS-CoV-2’s biology and pathogenesis mechanisms. Omics approaches and technologies have been widely employed in the fight against SARS-CoV-2. Since the onset of the virus outbreak, researchers have demonstrated how recent omics and bioinformatics technological advancements have contributed to the diagnosis, vaccine development, treatment, and control of disease transmission. Studies conducted since the outbreak have been collected and summarized, with a focus on bioinformatics approaches and their contribution to controlling this pandemic. Developments and advanced omics technology in connection to the COVID-19 pandemic have been analyzed. The multi-omics technology, which offers various strategies in identifying potential diagnostics, therapeutics, studies of variants of concern, and drug repurposing approaches, has been assessed. Pandemic response has seen the application of multi-omics and pan-genomics approaches, including genomics, metabolomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, epigenomics, clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) technology, host-pathogen interactions, artificial intelligence, and machine learning in various research areas. Additionally, bioinformatics and mathematical modeling have played a significant role in disease control. The use of smart technologies to control virus transmission and predict patients’ health conditions and treatment outcomes has also been crucial. Transcriptome analysis has emerged as a major application, contributing to the generation of new knowledge on viral sequences and intracellular signaling pathways that regulate viral infection and pathogenesis mechanisms. The sequencing of the virus has paved the way for the use of omics technologies and an integrative technique in combating the pandemic. In general, the advancement of omics technology during this pandemic has been fascinating and has contributed a significant role to the science of health biotechnology in general and omics and bioinformatics in particular.Keywords: bioinformatics, coronavirus, COVID-19, omics, SARS COV-2
Molecular Adaptation of Cardiac Remodeling in Metabolic Syndrome: Focus on AMPK, SIRT1 and PGC-1a
Authors: Ramadhan Andika Yusuf , Soetikno Vivian
Published: March 2024

Obesity, lack of physical activity, and genetic predisposition might play a pivotal role in pathogenesis of metabolic syndrome. Cardiac function alteration including hemodynamic changes, contractility function, arrhythmia, and cellular respiratory function, might happen due to chronic condition in metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance, neurohormonal activation and chronic inflammation might contribute to these changes. Cardiomyocyte had capabilities to adapt from these abnormalities, one of them is the activation of cellular pathway to resist cardiac injury from metabolic syndrome. This molecular pathway involves three proteins, including AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator-α (PGC-1α). The aim of this narrative review is to elucidate role of AMPK, SIRT1, and PGC-1α in cardiac adaptation against cardiac dysfunction in metabolic syndrome. AMPK, SIRT-1, and PGC-1α contribute to adapt and to repair the cardiac injury resulting from celullar and mechanical stress from metabolic syndrome and prevent cardiac remodeling event. Several pathological events, such as insulin resistance, induce alteration of switching energy fuel to the heart, causing cardiomyocte to rely on glucose metabolism and lipotoxicity, leading to damages of cardiomyocyte through reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation and lipid peroxidation. Increase of ROS promotes cardiac injury followed by necrotic and apoptotic events. AMPK, SIRT1, and PGC-1α act as cardioprotector molecule against metabolic syndrome insults to several mechanism such as: AMPK play role as counter act of lipotoxicity and insulin resistance through increasing insulin sensitivity and regulate redox reaction. SIRT1 plays role in regulating apoptotic genes and PGC-1α repairs cardiac fuel sources. Activation of AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-1α prevent cardiac remodeling due to metabolic syndrome by increasing insulin sensitivity, increases mitochondrial biogenesis and reduce pro-apoptotic signals in cardiomyocte.Keywords: AMPK/SIRT1/PGC-α, cardiac remodeling, metabolic syndrome
PROGRAMA EM REDE DOS NÚCLEOS DE INOVAÇÃO TECNOLÓGICA DO ESPÍRITO SANTO
Authors: Torobay Gabriel , Domjan Cecilia Anita Hasner , Neto Lupis Ribeiro Gomes
Published: March 2024

O presente artigo busca analisar o Programa em Rede dos Núcleos de Inovação Tecnológica do Espírito Santo, uma iniciativa que tem como objetivo ampliar, aperfeiçoar e consolidar as atividades de quatro Núcleos de Inovação Tecnológica (NITs), presentes na Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo (UFES), Instituto Federal do Espírito Santo (IFES), Instituto Capixaba de Pesquisa, Assistência Técnica e Extensão Rural (Incaper) e ao Centro Estadual de Educação Técnica Vasco Coutinho. O Programa, realizado entre os anos de 2021 e 2023, é pioneiro no estado, que pela primeira vez, criou ações em conjunto com as coordenações dos núcleos, mapeando desafios em comum. Este trabalho apresenta as principais entregas do Programa, detalhando os objetivos em que as atividades foram planejadas e os resultados gerados, e identifica oportunidades para propor melhorias para o desenvolvimento de outras ações de transferência de tecnologia e inovação.
The Role of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Chinese Pharmacopoeia in the
Evaluation and Treatment of COVID-19
Authors: Gasmi Amin , Noor Sadaf , Dadar Maryam , Semenova Yuliya , Menzel Alain , Gasmi Benahmed Asma , Bjørklund Geir
Published: March 2024

The epidemic prompted by COVID-19 continues to spread, causing a great risk to the general population's
safety and health. There are still no drugs capable of curing it. Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome
(SARS) and Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) are the two other diseases caused by coronaviruses.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) showed benefits in treating SARS and MERS by preventing the disease
early, substantially mitigating symptoms, shortening the treatment period, and minimizing risks and adverse
reactions caused by hormone therapy. Although several vaccines have been developed and are being used for
the treatment of COVID-19, existing vaccines cannot provide complete protection against the virus due to the
rapid evolution and mutation of the virus, as mutated viral epitopes evade the vaccine’s target and decrease
the efficacy of vaccines. Thus, there is a need to develop alternative options. TCM has demonstrated positive
effects in the treatment of COVID-19. Previous research studies on TCM showed broad-spectrum antiviral
activity, offering a range of possibilities for their potential use against COVID-19. This study shed some light
on common TCM used for SARS and MERS outbreaks and their effective use for COVID-19 management.
This study provides new insights into COVID-19 drug discovery.
Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment: Harnessing Cell-membrane Coated Nanoparticles for Precise Targeting and Therapy
Authors: Waghode Pranali , Rao G S N Koteswara , Deshpande Sanika , Budha Roja Rani , Alavala Rajasekhar Reddy , Kovvasu Surya
Published: March 2024

Cancer is still a significant worldwide health issue that requires novel techniques for diagnosis
and treatment. The complications associated with cancer are explored in this article, which also
introduces the novel concept of biomimetic nanoparticles as potential breakthrough in the fight
against the disease. The introduction gives a general review of cancer, explaining its complexity and
the underlying mechanisms that give rise to it. Epidemiological findings highlight the impact of cancer
on the entire world and the most extensively found cancer driving the demand for innovative therapeutic
approaches. A comprehensive review of the various cancer types follows with emphasis on
unique traits, diagnostic methods, and treatment modalities, highlighting the variety of difficulties.
An achievable path forward for targeted cancer therapy is the emerging science of biomimetic nanoparticles.
A thorough review of their many varieties and applications follows their introduction. These
nanoparticles’ inventive nature, which was inspired by biological systems, is highlighted by the explanation
of how they were synthesized. The focus is on biomimetic nanoparticles based on cancer cell
membranes as a novel means of medication administration and targeted therapy. Their use in the treatment
of cancer is being investigated, with an emphasis on their potential to improve therapeutic efficacy
and lessen side effects. Particularly noteworthy are the in-depth discussions of the unique difficulties
encountered in treating lung, breast, prostate, colon, colorectal, ovarian, leukemia, lymphoma, melanoma,
pancreatic, bladder, oral, gastric, hepatic, perihilar cholangiocarcinoma, and cervical cancers. The
article also mentions the various challenges which may occur during this entire process.