bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein and lipid expansion microscopy with trypsin and tyramide signal amplification for 3D imaging
Authors: Wang Ueh-Ting Tim , Tian Xuejiao , Liou Yae-Huei , Lee Sue-Ping , Lu Chieh-Han , Lin Po-Ting , Cheng Ya-Jen , Chen Peilin , Chen Bi-Chang
Published: September 2023

Expansion microscopy, whereby the relative positions of biomolecules are physically increased via hydrogel expansion, can be used to reveal ultrafine structures of cells under a conventional microscope. Despite its utility for achieving super-resolution imaging, expansion microscopy suffers a major drawback, namely reduced fluorescence signals caused by excessive proteolysis and swelling effects. This caveat results in a lower photon budget and disfavors fluorescence imaging over a large field of view that can cover an entire expanded cell. Here, we modify expansion microscopy by deploying trypsin digestion to reduce protein loss and tyramide signal amplification to enhance fluorescence signal We name our new methodology TT-ExM to indicate dual trypsin and tyramide treatments. TT-ExM displayed enhanced protein retention for endoplasmic reticulum and mitochondrial markers in COS-7 cell cultures. Importantly, TT-ExM-based lipid staining clearly revealed the complex 3D membrane structures in cells. Through combined lipid and DNA staining, our TT-ExM methodology highlighted mitochondria by revealing their DNA and membrane structures in cytoplasm, as well as the lipid-rich structures formed via phase separation in nuclei at interphase and lipid-rich chromosome matrices in the mitotic cells. Thus, readily available reagents can be deployed in TT-ExM to significantly enhance fluorescence signals and generate high-quality and ultrafine-resolution images.
RC-Columns Subjected to Lateral Cyclic Force with Different FRCM-Strengthening Schemes: Experimental and Numerical Investigation
Authors: John Shaise K , Cascardi Alessio , Verre Salvatore , Nadir Yashida
Published: September 2023

The vulnerability of reinforced concrete (RC) structures against seismic events has prompted extensive research into retrofitting techniques aimed at enhancing their seismic performance. Among these, Fabric-Reinforced Cementitious Matrix (FRCM) systems have gained prominence as promising solutions for strengthening RC-columns. This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the seismic strengthening of RC columns using FRCM, combining experimental and numerical approaches to assess their effectiveness. The experimental phase of this research involved the fabrication of scaled RC-column specimens representing typical real-world conditions. These columns were subjected to a series of cyclic loading tests to simulate seismic forces. Multiple FRCM configurations, including different fiber types and dosages, were applied to these specimens. The experimental results revealed a substantial increase in the ductility, stiffness, and ultimate strength of the strengthened RC-columns, indicating the potential of FRCM systems as effective seismic retrofit solutions. In parallel, a numerical analysis was conducted using finite element modeling (FEM) to simulate the behavior of the strengthened RC-columns under seismic loading conditions. The FEM simulations were validated against the experimental data, demonstrating good agreement. This numerical investigation allowed for a more in-depth understanding of the stress distribution and deformation patterns within the strengthened columns, aiding in the optimization of FRCM reinforcement strategies. The integrated experimental and numerical investigation presented in this study contributes valuable insights into the seismic strengthening of RC-columns using FRCM systems. It provides a holistic understanding of their performance, including their enhanced load-carrying capacity, as well as improved ductility guiding the adoption of FRCM systems as a viable solution for mitigating seismic risk in existing RC-structures.
Unilateral fovea plana with reduced visual acuity: a case report
Authors: Bouladi Mejda , Othmen Amal Ben , Fekih Lamia El , Wady Ben Jalel
Published: September 2023

Background
Fovea plana, defined as a lack of the foveal pit, is usually bilateral, and may be associated with a variable visual acuity depending on accompanying pathologies. We present the case of a unilateral foveal plana with reduced visual acuity.
Case presentation:
A 16 -year-old boy presented with low vision in the left eye. The best corrected visual acuity was 10/10 in the right eye and 8/10 in the left eye. Fundus examination appeared normal in the right eye and revealed less delimited foveal reflex in the left eye. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) showed normal foveal depression in the right eye and asymmetry between the nasal and temporal parts of foveolar depression in the left eye. Fluoresceine angiography showed normal foveal avascular zone (FAZ) in the right eye, significantly smaller FAZ and vessels crossing the central zone in the left eye. optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) showed absent FAZ in the superficial and deep capillary.
Conclusion
fovea plana should be considered in patients with unilateral reduced visual acuity, the diagnosis is more evident with OCTA that has become the most useful tool for the diagnosis this disease.
Enhanced Convergence in p-bit Based Simulated Annealing with Partial Deactivation for Large-Scale Combinatorial Optimization Problems
Authors: Onizawa Naoya , Hanyu Takahiro
Published: September 2023

This article critically investigates the limitations of the simulated annealing algorithm using probabilistic bits (pSA) in solving large-scale combinatorial optimization problems. The study begins with an in-depth analysis of the pSA process, focusing on the issues resulting from unexpected oscillations among p-bits. These oscillations hinder the energy reduction of the Ising model and thus obstruct the successful execution of pSA in complex tasks. Through detailed simulations, we unravel the root cause of this energy stagnation, identifying the feedback mechanism inherent to the pSA operation as the primary contributor to these disruptive oscillations. To address this challenge, we propose two novel algorithms, time average pSA (TApSA) and stalled pSA (SpSA). These algorithms are designed based on partial deactivation of p-bits and are thoroughly tested using Python simulations on maximum cut benchmarks that are typical combinatorial optimization problems. On the 16 benchmarks from 800 to 5,000 nodes, the proposed methods improve the normalized cut value from 0.8% to 98.4% on average in comparison with the conventional pSA.
Radiomics unleashed: the power of DCE+DWI MRI models in predicting breast cancer recurrence and metastasis
Authors: Wang Haotian , Yu Tao , Deng Ning , Zhao Nannan , Cui Tingting , Xu Shu
Published: September 2023

Background
This study aimed to explore the predictive capability of the multiparametric Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) model, which combines Dynamic Contrast Enhancement (DCE) and Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI) (referred to as the DCE + DWI model), for recurrence and metastasis in breast cancer patients.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 703 patients who underwent breast MRI examination at Liaoning Cancer Hospital and were diagnosed with breast cancer. After a rigorous screening process, 137 patients were ultimately included in the study. MRI scans were performed using a 1.5 Tesla (T) MRI scanner (Signa HD, GE, USA). From the DCE and DWI scans, eight radiomics features were extracted, leading to the establishment of the DCE + DWI model.
Results
The Radscore of the DCE + DWI model was able to approximately differentiate breast cancer patients based on the presence or absence of recurrence and metastasis. The multiparametric MRI model (DCE + DWI model) produced the highest Area Under the Curve (AUC) and accuracy values compared to other models. Diagnostic curves revealed that, at the same threshold, the model had the highest net benefit in predicting recurrence and metastasis.
Conclusions
The multiparametric MRI model (DCE + DWI model) demonstrates superior performance in predicting recurrence and metastasis in breast cancer patients.
Clinical usefulness of coronary non-contrast Magnetic Resonance Angiography for selected patients with renal dysfunction or past allergic reaction to iodinated contrast medium
Authors: Takekawa Shoichi D. , Munechika Hirotsugu , Saginoya Toshiyuki , Liu Wen-Han , Ono Masahiro , Kawamura Keiichi , Kanno Megumu , Midorikawa Hirofumi , Nakazawa Makoto , Morishima Shigehiro , Yamazaki Hidekazu , Konno Takashi , Chiba Yoshihiro
Published: September 2023

Objective: To verify the usefulness of coronary non-contrast Magnetic Resonance Angiography (coronary MRA) for selected patients with disadvantageous physical conditions.
Materials and Methods:
Between July 2016 and May 2023, 55 cases were examined by coronary MRA for selected patients with decreased renal function, past allergic reaction to iodinated contrast medium (ICM), heavy calcification of the coronary arteries on the plain CT or patient refusal of ICM and suspected coronary artery disease.
Those patients did not have comparable examination methods such as CTA or CAG, to calculate sensitivity and specificity.
Therefore, clinical follow-up studies were performed in 47 out of 55 cases to verify that there had been no acute coronary syndrome in the intervening period when MRA excluded or could not identify significant stenosis.
Excluded cases were poor image (1), lost case (1), preceded CTA (3 cases), repeated examination (1 case), and early death (2).
The average follow-up period was 39.8 months (1-83 months).
The MRA was taken by a 1.5T MRI machine with 3D whole-heart magnetic resonance angiography and a 32-channel cardiac coil, utilizing a steady-state free precession MR sequence, respiration navigation and cardiac gating
Acquired MR data were processed by Fujifilm Synapse Vincent.
Results:
The follow-up studies showed no occurrence of acute coronary syndrome in any of the patients after coronary MRA.
Conclusion:
Coronary MRA was useful for the patients with disadvantageous physical conditions such as decreased renal function or past allergic reaction to ICM, although there are some limitations for MRA.
Note: CAG stands for coronary angiography.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal inoculation and previous crop influence pearl millet growth and yields in a Mediterranean arid environment
Authors: Labidi Sonia , Jerbi Maroua , Khanfir Marwa , Hammami Sofiène , Balti Afef , Hammami Zied , Chamekh Zoubeir , Trifa Youssef , Sahli Ali , Baazaoui Narjes , Jeddi Faysal Ben , Sahraoui Anissa Lounès- Hadj , Sghaier-Hammami Besma
Published: September 2023

Pearl millet is one of the most important cereal crops for food security and livelihood of many rural population in semi-arid and arid environments. Beneficial microorganisms play key roles in sustainable crop productivity. We investigated the potential of biofertilization using arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) on pearl millet production after different preceding crops in arid region. In this study, a field experimental trial was performed in a completely randomized factorial design with three replications. Two AMF treatments: without inoculation (-M) and inoculated with a commercial inoculum containing six AMF species of Glomus (+ M), were tested after three previous crops barley (B), fenugreek (F) and the mixture barley/fenugreek (B/F). Growth, yield traits and some grain quality parameters in pearl millet were evaluated. Our findings revealed that AMF inoculation significantly increased pearl millet root colonization by 3 and 4-fold after B and B/F, respectively. Inoculated pear millet plants presented a significant increase in fresh and dry biomasses, chlorophyll contents, as well as in yield parameters. The highest grain yield was obtained when pearl millet was grown after B (196.9 g/m2) and B/F (186.7 g/m2) as preceding crops. Regarding the grain quality of pearl millet, the highest concentrations of polyphenol and flavonoid were recorded for plants cultivated after B and B/F, with 36 and 28% increases, respectively, as compared to the control. This study demonstrated the important role of AMF and preceding crop as strategic tools in enhancing pearl millet productivity in arid environment.
Affective Commonsense Knowledge Enhanced Dependency Graph for Aspect Sentiment Triplet Extraction
Authors: Sun Xiaowen , Zhu Zhenfang , Qi Jiangtao , Zhao Zhen , Pei Hongli
Published: September 2023

Most existing aspect sentiment triplet extraction models emphasize the adoption of novel tagging scheme to jointly extract three elements of sentiment triplets, but they overlook the intrinsic information of individual words, including the implicit relationships between words, which results in the inaccurate triplet extraction. In this paper, we propose a novel method named Affective Commonsense Knowledge Enhanced Dependency Graph, which considers the sentiment information contained in each word and the relative positional distance relationships between them. Specifically, a dependency graph is generated, incorporating the sentiment information obtained through an external knowledge base called SenticNet. This dependency graph is integrated into a multi-layer Graph Convolutional Network to enhance the sentiment dependency relationships between words. Additionally, an attention mechanism with relative position embeddings is utilized to acquire word representations which incorporate contextual and syntactic information. Furthermore, an expanded Grid Tagging Scheme is employed to provide more accurate description of the relationships between words. Experimental results on SemEval and ASTE-Data-V2 demonstrate its superior performance of our method.
Optimizing the microbial synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Gloeophyllum striatum and their antimicrobial potential evaluation
Authors: Tończyk Aleksandra , Niedziałkowska Katarzyna , Lisowska Katarzyna
Published: September 2023

The search for new sources of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) is being continued. Microbial synthesis seems to be the most advantageous solution for large scale production. The use of brown rot fungi is scarcely described, but it might be a promising solution due to their known enzymatic abilities. In the present study, the synthesis of AgNPs with the use of Gloeophyllum striatum DSM 9592 was performed in various process conditions. The obtained silver nanoparticles were characterized using UV-Vis, FT-IR, SEM and NTA techniques. Antimicrobial potential of all synthesized nanoparticles was tested against various Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria strains. P. aeruginosa occurred to be the most sensitive with MIC value of 1.56 µg/ml. The research was extended by the biofilm formation assay for the selected strain. The haemolytic and cytotoxic activity of obtained AgNPs was also tested. It was established that the toxicity of synthesized AgNPs did not reach the LC50 level in the concentration equal to the MIC90 value against P. aeruginosa. These results highlight the possible utility of mycogenic silver nanoparticles as an antibacterial agent in antiseptics or other external treatments.
Investigating the use of 3-component - 2-dimensional particle image velocimetry fields as inflow boundary condition for the direct numerical simulation of turbulent channel flow
Authors: Kannadasan Ezhilsabareesh , Atkinson Callum , Soria Julio
Published: September 2023

Direct numerical simulation (DNS) of turbulent wall-bounded flows requires long streamwise computational domains to establish the correct spatial evolution of large-scale structures with high fidelity. In contrast, experimental measurements can relatively easily capture large-scale structures but struggle to resolve the dissipative flow scales with high fidelity. One methodology to overcome the shortcomings of each approach is via a data assimilation process which combines the strengths of DNS with experimental measurements by using experimental velocity field measurements as the inflow to a DNS of a convective turbulent wall-bounded shear flow to reduce the spatial streamwise domain and accelerate the DNS to the proper development of the large-scale structures. To this end, this paper reports the results of an investigation to establish the impact of limited spatial resolution and limited near-wall experimental inflow data on the DNS of a wall-bounded turbulent shear flow. Specifically, this study investigates the spatial extent required for the DNS of a turbulent channel flow to recover the turbulent velocity fluctuations and energy when experimental inflow data is typically unable to capture fluctuations down to the viscous sub-layer or the smallest viscous scales (i.e. the Kolmogorov scale or their surrogate viscous scale in wall-bounded turbulent shear slows) is used as the inflow to a DNS. A time-resolved numerically generated experimental field is constructed from a periodic channel flow DNS (PCH-DNS) at Reτ = 550 and 2,300, which is subsequently used as the inflow velocity field for an inflow-outflow boundary conditions DNS (IOCH-DNS). The time-resolved experimental inflow field is generated by appropriately filtering the small scales from the PCH-DNS velocity by integrating over a spatial domain that is representative of a particle image velocimetry (PIV) interrogation window. This study shows that the recovery of small scales requires a longer domain as the spatial resolution at the inflow decreases with all flow scales recovered and their correct scale-dependent energy is re-established once the flow has developed for 3 channel heights.
Sequence- and Temperature-Dependent Intrastrand Photocrosslinking of 5-Fluoro-2’-O-methyl- 4-thiouridine Modified Oligonucleotides
Authors: Nowak-Karnowska Joanna , Taras-Goślińska Katarzyna , Haider Shozeb , Skalski Bohdan
Published: September 2023

DNA photocrosslinking reactions occur widely in biological systems and are often used as a valuable tool in molecular biology. With regard to the latter, highly efficient and selective photoactive DNA crosslinking agents are of particular interest. 4-Thiouridine is one of the most frequently used photoactivatable DNA crosslinking agents. Our previous studies revealed that it’s 5-halogeno derivatives, namely 5-fluoro- and 5-chloro-4-thiouridines (FSU and ClSU, respectively), incorporated into double stranded DNA oligonucleotide form highly fluorescent interstrand crosslink with thymidine in nearly quantitative yield. Here we reported the sequence- and temperature dependent formation of intrastrand crosslink products from the irradiation of single stranded oligodeoxynucleotides bearing FSU. Our results showed that two types of intrastrand crosslink products could be formed, namely the fluorescent one with T and nonfluorescent with C. Moreover, partial photooxidation of FSU residue to 5-fluorouridine was also observed. Our studies confirm the possibility of intrastrand photocrosslinking of nonadjacent bases in short oligodeoxynucleotides. The results were supported by molecular dynamics simulations and are valuable for the future designing of FSU-labeled probes for fluorescence-based detection of specific DNA sequences.
Regularity of Hele-Shaw Flow with Source and Drift
Authors: Kim Inwon , Zhang Yuming
Published: September 2023

In this paper we study the regularity property of Hele-Shaw flow, where source and drift are present in the evolution. More specifically we consider H\"{o}lder continuous source and Lipschitz continuous drift. We show that if the free boundary of the solution is locally close to a Lipschitz graph, then it is indeed Lipschitz, given that the Lipschitz constant is small. When there is no drift, our result establishes $C^{1,\gamma}$ regularity of the free boundary by combining our result with the obstacle problem theory. In general, when the source and drift are both smooth, we prove that the solution is non-degenerate, indicating higher regularity of the free boundary.
CPLX2 is a novel tumor suppressor and improves the prognosis in glioma
Authors: Chen Yuanbing , Ning Jieling , Shu Long , Wen Lingzhi , Yan Bokang , Wang Zuli , Hu Junhong , Zhou Xiaokun , Tao Yongguang , Xia Xuewei , Huang Jun
Published: September 2023

Background: Glioma is a type of malignant cancer in the central nervous system. New predictive biomarkers have been investigated in recent years, but the clinical prognosis in glioma remains poor. The function of CPLX2 in glioma and the probable molecular mechanism of tumor suppression was the focus of this investigation.
Methods: The glioma transcriptome profile is downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas (CGGA) databases were performed to analyze the expression of CPLX2 in glioma. RT-qPCR was performed to detect the expression of CPLX2 in 68 glioma subjects, these patients who have been followed up. Kaplan-Meier survival analyses were done to evaluate the effect of CPLX2 on the prognosis of glioma patients. The CPLX2 knockdown and overexpressed cell lines were constructed to investigate the effect of CPLX2 on glioma. The cell growth, colony formation, and tumor formation in xenograft were performed.
Results: The expression of CPLX2 was downregulated in glioma and negatively correlated to the grade of glioma. The higher expression of CPLX2 predicted a longer survival through the analysis of Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Overexpressed CPLX2 impaired tumorigenesis in glioma progression both in vivo and in vitro. Knocking down of CPLX2 promoted the proliferation of the glioma cells. The analysis of GSEA and co-expression analysis revealed that CPLX2 may affect the malignancy of glioma by regulating hypoxia and inflammation pathway.
Conclusions: Our data indicated that CPLX2 functioned as a tumor suppressor and could be used as a potential prognostic marker in glioma.
Outcomes and Complications of Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery Complicated by Anterior Capsule Tear
Authors: Sharifi Ali , Hayati Neda , Zand Amin
Published: September 2023

Purpose: This study aims to present the outcomes and complications associated with phacoemulsification cataract surgery complicated by anterior capsule tears.
Methods: In this prospective study, we enrolled patients who underwent phacoemulsification cataract surgery with anterior capsule tears. We documented demographic, biometric, intraoperative, and postoperative data. The main assessed outcomes included the stage of anterior tear identification, intraoperative capsule complication rates, intraocular lens (IOL) placement and design, visual outcomes, surgically induced astigmatism (SIA), and the incidence of postoperative complications.
Results: We enrolled 21 eyes of 21 patients who experienced anterior capsule tears during phacoemulsification cataract surgery. Anterior capsule tears were identified during phacoemulsification in 11 eyes (52.4%), during capsulorhexis in 9 eyes (42.9%), and during irrigation/aspiration in 1 eye (4.7%). Among the eyes, tears extended to the posterior capsule in 8 cases (38.1%), resulting in vitreous loss. Endocapsular fixation of a 1-piece acrylic IOL was achieved in 4 eyes (19.0%), while 4 eyes (19.0%) required implantation of a 3-piece acrylic IOL in the ciliary sulcus. Postoperative best-corrected visual acuity at 12 months significantly improved compared to baseline (P < 0.001). The overall SIA at 12 months was not statistically significant (P = 0.098). During the 12-month postoperative follow-up, cystoid macular edema and retinal detachment were observed in 2 eyes (9.5%) and 1 eye (4.7%), respectively.
Conclusion: Anterior capsule tears during cataract surgery, while not a major complication by themselves, can lead to complications when they extend to the posterior capsule. These subsequent complications can impact surgical outcomes and increase the risk of postoperative morbidities.
Hierarchical Patch Aggregation Transformer For Motion Deblurring
Authors: Wu Yujie , Lei Liang , Ling Siyao , Gao Zhisheng
Published: September 2023

The paradigm of harnessing encoder-decoder frameworks, underpinned by Transformer constituents, has emerged as an exemplar in the realm of image deblurring architectural designs. In this investigation, we critically reexamine this approach. Our analysis reveals that many current architectures focus heavily on limited local regions during the feature extraction phase. This narrow focus compromises the richness and diversity of features channeled to the encoder-decoder framework, resulting in an information bottleneck. Furthermore, these designs tend to rely excessively on global features, which can lead to the neglect of crucial local details in specific areas, adversely affecting image deblurring efficacy. To address these issues, we present the a novel hierarchical patch aggregation Transformer(HPAT) architecture. In the initial feature extraction phase, we incorporate cross-axis spatial Transformer blocks that exhibit linear complexity, complemented by an adaptive hierarchical attention fusion mechanism. These enhancements enable the model to adeptly capture spatial interrelationships among features and integrate insights from multiple hierarchical layers. Subsequently, we optimize the feedforward network within the Transformer blocks of the encoder-decoder framework, leading to the development of the Fusion Feedforward Network (F3N). This innovation streamlines the aggregation of token information, bolstering the model's ability to capture and retain local details. Our comprehensive experimental assessments, conducted across a variety of publicly available datasets, confirm the effectiveness of the HPAT model. Empirical results decisively prove that our HPAT model establishes a new benchmark in image deblurring tasks.
Efficacy of bone defect therapy involving various surface treatments of titanium alloy implants: An in vivo and in vitro study
Authors: Wang Boyang , Xu Jiuhui , Zeng Fanwei , Ren Tingting , Tang Xiaodong , Guo Wei , Guo Yu
Published: September 2023

Multiple surface treatment methods for titanium alloy prostheses, widely used in orthopedics, are available; however, these can affect bone integration and regeneration efficiency. This study, through cell and animal experiments, we devised seven bone implant categories of Ti6A14V implants, based on surface preparation and post-processing technology (polishing, sandblasting, fine titanium spraying, coarse titanium spraying, electron beam melting [EBM] printing, selective laser melting [SLM] printing, and post-processed SLM printing) and imaged each microscopic surface structure with a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Mechanical testing revealed excessive post-processing damaged the mechanical properties of the implants. In vitro, human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) were co-cultured with implants, and the morphology of the cells adhering to the implant surface was observed using SEM and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) semi-quantitatively determined cell activity, indirectly reflecting the proliferation of hBMSCs. Alizarin Red (AR) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) experiments assessed osteogenic differentiation. In vivo, experiments utilized the New Zealand rabbit femoral condyle bone defect model to assess bone regeneration and integration using micro-computed tomography, Van Giesen staining, and Masson staining. We found that 3D-printed implants with regular pore structures were more conducive to hBMSCs' osteogenic differentiation, while the presence of metal powder on SLM-printed implants hindered such differentiation. The post-processed SLM scaffold's surface may have some residual semi-melted powder; however, these powder residues have no significant effect on cell activity and differentiation. Surface treatment (sandblasting and titanium spraying) of planar structures can enhance the hBMSCs' adhesion but do not necessarily promote their differentiation. The framework structure of 3D printing may affect the osteogenic differentiation of hBMSCs and for SLM-printed implants, excessive pursuit of a "powderless" state will damage the mechanical properties of the implant.
Causal Association between Kynurenine and Depression: An Investigation using Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Zong Luxin , Ge Maohong , Wang Jiamiao , Kuang Dan , Wei Hongkai , Wang Zhongbao , Hu Zerui , Zhao Chaoben , Jin Qingmin , Chen Minghui , Wang Chenghui
Published: September 2023

Background: With advances in medical research, a growing association has been observed between kynurenine and depression. However, the causal relationship between kynurenine and depression remains unclear. Therefore, we utilized Mendelian randomization (MR) methods to investigate the causal link between kynurenine and depression.
Methods: We utilized extensive data from large-scale genome-wide association studies to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms that act as instrumental variables for kynurenineand depression in European ancestry populations, ensuring compliance with MR assumptions. We employed five MR algorithms, namely, weighted median, MR Egger, inverse variance weighted (IVW), simple mode, and weighted mode, with IVW as the primary analysis method. Sensitivity tests were conducted using Cochran's Q test, MR‒Egger intercept test, MR Pleiotropy Residual Sum and Outlier, and Leave-one-out analysis.
Results: The IVW analysis revealed that each standard deviation increase in kynurenine corresponded to a 1.4-fold increase in the risk of depression (OR=1.351, 95% CI=1.110~1.645, P=0.003). The direction of the effect size (positive or negative) was consistent with the findings from the other four algorithms. Sensitivity tests indicated no heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy among the instrumental variables.
Conclusion: Elevated levels of kynurenine have a causal relationship with an increased risk of developing depression.
Real-Time Approach for Smart Building Operations Prediction Using Rule-Based Complex Event Processing and SPARQL Query
Authors: KUMAR SHASHI SHEKHAR , Chandra Ritesh , Agarwal Sonali
Published: September 2023

Due to intelligent, adaptive nature towards various operations and their ability to provide maximum comfort to the occupants residing in them, smart buildings are becoming a pioneering area of research. Since these architectures leverage the Internet of Things (IoT), there is a need for monitoring different operations (Occupancy, Humidity, Temperature, CO2 , etc.) to provide sustainable comfort to the occupants. This paper proposes a novel approach for intelligent building operations monitoring using rule-based complex event processing and query-based approaches for dynamically monitoring the different operations. Siddhi is a complex event processing engine designed for handling multiple sources of event data in real time and processing it according to predefined rules using a decision tree. Since streaming data is dynamic in nature, to keep track of different operations, we have converted the IoT data into an RDF dataset. The RDF dataset is ingested to Apache Kafka for streaming purposes and for stored data we have used the GraphDB tool that extracts information with the help of SPARQL query. Consequently, the proposed approach is also evaluated by deploying the large number of events through the Siddhi CEP engine and how efficiently they are processed in terms of time. Apart from that, a risk estimation scenario is also designed to generate alerts for end users in case any of the smart building operations need immediate attention. The output is visualized and monitored for the end user through a tableau dashboard.
Benford’s law: an application to sunspot data
Authors: Mir T A , Darzi M A , Ishtiaq P M , Mufti S
Published: September 2023

Sunspots, the longest recorded indicators of the solar activity, are fundamental to the understanding of the sun and related solar phenomena. Here we explore whether the data on sunspot areas conforms to Benford’s law (BL) - an empirical observation that in large data the numbers having smaller first significant digits (FSDs) appear far more frequently than do the numbers having larger FSDs. We analyze the areas of individual sunspots, of sunspot groups and total area of all the sunspots visible on the surface of sun at any point of time. Furthermore, we also investigate the daily photometric sunspot index (PSI), the umbral and daily plage areas for conformity to BL. The distribution of FSDs of numbers amongst all the data sets are found to be in good agreement with the predictions of BL except the data on daily plage areas which show some deviations from the law. Interpretation of the obtained results is also given.
Vaccination Readiness of COVID-19 and Generic Conspiracist Beliefs Among Young Adults: The Mediated Role of Health and Wellbeing
Authors: Naz Bushra , Fida Muhammad Kashif , Khan Muhammad Zohaib , Safdar Azkaa , Asghar Aqeel
Published: September 2023

Background: The significance and seriousness of COVID-19 vaccination are regarded as a public health emergency for national and international forums. Despite this fact, vaccination readiness is a challenge in young adults due to their belief in general conspiracy theories. Objective: The prime objective of the study was to explore the relationship between vaccination readiness and generic conspiracist beliefs in young adults. Method: A correlational research design was used to conduct this research study. A total sample of 185 young adults (male=83, female=102) aged (20-39 years) fulfilling the inclusion criteria were purposively recruited from different areas of Lahore, Pakistan. An online survey was conducted having demographic information form and standardized questions about vaccination readiness, generic conspiracist beliefs, and health and well-being. The link was sent to the participants through email, WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and other social media channels. During this survey participants recorded their responses in around ten weeks. Results: Data were analyzed by utilizing SPSS-23 and AMOS-21. The results of correlation analysis revealed that vaccination readiness was inversely associated with generic conspiracist beliefs in young adults. Moreover, generic conspiracist beliefs have a significant negative impact on vaccination readiness. Health and well-being partially mediated the association between generic conspiracist beliefs and vaccination readiness. Conclusion: The authorities should initiate awareness programs to enhance the readiness of the COVID-19 vaccination and also metastasize its effectiveness in young adults. Preventive measures should be taken to eradicate the elements that enhance the generic conspiracist beliefs about vaccination.
Spatio-temporal drought assessment and comparison of drought indices under climatic variations in drought-prone areas of Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Muhammad Bilal , Muavia Ali , Iqbal Mudassar , Arshed Abu Bakar , Ahmad Muhammad Mansoor
Published: September 2023

Climatic variations cause droughts which badly affect the environment. The study focused on monitoring droughts to aid decision-making and mitigate their negative impacts on water availability for agriculture and livelihoods in the face of increasing water demand and climate change. To assess the agricultural droughts, a new agricultural Standardized Precipitation Index (aSPI) was calculated which is not used earlier in Balochistan. Widely recommended Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) were used for meteorological drought assessment. Drought indices comparison was also conducted to check the applicability. Rainfall, maximum temperature, and minimum temperature data (1992 to 2021) were utilized to calculate SPI, aSPI, and SPEI at different timescales (3, 6, 9, and 12 months) using DrinC software and SPEI calculator. Indices results revealed the following severe to extreme drought years: 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2004, 2008, 2011, 2014, 2016, and 2017. It was determined that Dalbandin, Quetta, Sibi, Kalat, Khuzdar, and Zhob experienced higher extreme drought frequencies. Both long- and short-term drought durations were observed. Indices comparison showed that SPI is the most efficient drought index compared to aSPI and SPEI. This study offers valuable insights for managing water resources in the face of climate-induced droughts.
METHOD OF ANALYSIS FOR DETERMINATION OF THE CHROMIUM (Cr) SPECIES IN WATER SAMPLES BY SPECTROPHOTOMETRY WITH DIPHENYLCARBAZIDE
Authors: Wiryawan Adam , Retnowati Rurini , Burhan Perry , Syekhfani Syekhfani
Published: September 2023

Speciation of Chromium (Cr) is very important because of the toxicity of these metals depending on the oxidation number and its concentration is very low in the water system. Chromium occurs in the environment primarily in two valence states, trivalent Cr(III) and hexavalent Cr(VI). Chromium (III) is an essential micro-nutrients for the human body, while the Cr(VI) is highly toxic and carcino-gennic. Chromium(VI) in the water can be analyzed by spectrophotometry with diphenylcarbazide as reagent on pH=1 at maximum wavelength of 540 nm. The experimental result show that Cr(VI) can be analyzed using diphenylcarbazide in the concentration of 0.0015% and H3PO4 solution as acidic in 0.03 mol/L. The absorbance was measured at minutes 5 after preparation. There is interference from ion Fe(III) at least 6.0 ppm and this interference can be overcome by using 0.3 % NaF solution. The limit of detection of this method is -samples, mix of Cr(III) and Cr(VI), can be analyzed by using this method without oxidation by KMnO4 solution. While Cr(III)  in the artificial samples, mix of Cr(III) and Cr(VI), can be analyzed by using this method via oxidation by KMnO4 solution in the acidic media (H2SO4), the result of this analysis is the total concentration of Chromium. The concen-tration of Cr(III) can be calculate via subtract the total of Cr concentration by concentration of Cr(VI).
Keywords: speciation, Cr(III), Cr(VI), spectropho-tometry, diphenylcarbazide, Fe(III), interference.
MAP OF EDIBLE ARACEAE BASED ON ABIOTIC FACTORS IN GOWA REGENCY, SOUTH SULAWESI
Authors: Hafsah Hafsah , Azrianingsih Rodiyati , Masri Mashuri
Published: September 2023

This study aims to create a distribution map and find out the relationship between the distribution of edible Araceae and abiotic factors in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi. Edible Araceae explorations were carried out in 18 sub-districts in November 2016 to September 2018. Edible Araceae which was found to be marked with GPS location, documented with a camera, and measured abiotic factors including altitude, air temperature, soil temperature, light intensity, soil pH, humidity soil, air humidity and soil organic matter. The types of Araceae found included 9 species from 4 genera, namely Xanthosoma sagittifolium (L.) Schott., Xanthosoma nigrum, Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott., Colocasia esculenta, Alocasia calidora, Alocasia macrorrhiza (L.) Schott. Amorphophallus muelleri Blume, Amorphophallus paeoniifolius, Amorphophallus variabilis Blume. Distribution of edible Araceae in Gowa Regency, South Sulawesi includes coastal areas (<100 m asl), lowlands (100-400 m asl) and highlands (<400 m asl). The distribution of Araceae which is affected by light intensity is Xanthosoma and Alocasia, while the distribution of Colocasia is influenced by altitude, soil organic matter, and soil moisture and Amorphophallus is influenced by soil pH. Araceae conservation strategy compiled based on species data, habitat preference, utilization and distribution of Araceae is expected to be used for the establishment of community business activities for the management of Araceae in each village that has an Araceae distribution.
LOS DERECHOS HUMANOS EN AMÉRICA LATINA
Authors: Boss Agudelo Jovanny
Published: September 2023

ResumenEl objeto central del presente artículo de reflexión se sitúa en la promoción y protección de los Derechos Humanos en América Latina. Para su desarrollo, se parte de una aproximación conceptual a la idea de los Derechos Humanos y luego se da paso a un análisis del estado de éstos (inclusión, conquista y evolución en el territorio) en el contexto iberoamericano. La finalidad es responder a la pregunta por la vigencia y legitimidad de los Derechos Humanos en el marco de los grandes conflictos que han determinado a la región a lo largo del siglo XX, con especial énfasis a partir de 1948, año en que se promulga la Declaración Universal de los Derechos Humanos y nace el Derecho Internacional Humanitario como una aspiración civilista de occidente, con proyección a la defensa de la familia humana sin discriminación de nacionalidad u origen cultural. El ensayo finaliza elevando una propuesta para la intervención civil en el respeto y protección de los Derechos Humanos, desde la condición de ciudadanía como paso fundamental a la condición civil de la persona ante el Estado.

AbstractThe central object of this paper is placed on the promotion and protection of human rights in Latin America. For its development of a conceptual approach to the idea of human rights and then leads a discussion of the status of these (including, conquest and evolution in the area) in the Latin American context. The purpose is to answer the question of the validity and legitimacy of human rights in the context of the major conflicts that have shaped the region over the twentieth century, with special emphasis since 1948, promulgating the Declaration universal Human Rights and International Humanitarian Law is born, as a civilian aspiration of the West, with projection to the defense of the human family without distinction of nationality or cultural background. The essay ends with a proposal for bringing a civil action in respect and protection of Human Rights, since the condition of citizenship as a key step to the civil status of the individual to the state.
EL CRIMEN: UNA PERSPECTIVA DESDE LOS DERECHOS HUMANOS
Authors: Carrillo Pumarejo Rafael Eduardo , Álvarez Martínez Fredy Alberto
Published: September 2023

Resumen

En este trabajo se busca analizar la relevancia que tienen los derechos humanos en el estudio del crimen. Se muestra como el estudio del crimen ha evolucionado a partir de las ideas humanitarias de la Ilustración europea hasta convertirse en una disciplina científica con diversos enfoques. Se indaga la relación entre derechos humanos, y la legislación penal internacional. Finalmente se esbozan los postulados básicos de la economía del crimen cuya preponderancia actual es innegable dado las ideas dominantes de la teoría económica neoclásica. La metodología empleada fue de tipo funcional-comparativo.

Abstract

This work seeks to analyze the relevance of human rights in the study of crime. We show how the study of crime has evolved from humanitarian ideas of the European Enlightenment into a scientific discipline with various approaches. It explores the relationship between human rights and international criminal law. Finally, we outline the basic tenets of the economics of crime whose current dominance is undeniable given the dominant ideas of neoclassical economic theory. The methodology was a comparative-functional type.
CARACTERIZACIÓN DE LOS DELITOS INFORMÁTICOS EN COLOMBIA
Authors: Manjarrés Bolaño Iván
Published: September 2023

Resumen

Es evidente que los avances tecnológicos demuestran la evolución del hombre, y eso lo podemos comprobar a través de los medios que permiten el almacenamiento, la transmisión y la administración de la información. Avances que han modificado el vivir diario de las personas y de las organizaciones, las cuales reflejan el aumento de transacciones comerciales, comercio electrónico, comunicaciones en línea, los procesos industriales, las investigaciones, la seguridad, la sanidad, etc., pero los sistemas de información que han permitido mejorar ostensiblemente los procesos al interior de las organizaciones, son los que al mismo tiempo han generado una serie de comportamientos ilícitos, que se les denomina “Delitos Informáticos”, y es el tema a abordar en este artículo de investigación, que se enmarca dentro del proyecto interdisciplinar titulado La seguridad en los Delitos informáticos desarrollado por estudiantes y docentes de los programas de Derecho e Ingeniería de Sistemas de la Corporación Universitaria Americana.

 

Abstract

It is clear that technological advances show the evolution of man, and we can check through the means for storage, transmission and information management. Advances that have changed the daily lives of individuals and organizations, which reflect increased business transactions, electronic commerce, online communications, industrial processes, research, safety, health, etc. , But systems information that allowed significantly improve processes within organizations are at the same time have created a series of unlawful conduct, which is called “ Computer Crimes “ and is the subject addressed in this research article, that is part of the interdisciplinary project entitled security in cybercrime developed by students and teachers of law programs and Systems Engineering of the American University Corporation.
DIDÁCTICA Y ENSEÑANZA DEL DERECHO EN LAS UNIVERSIDADES
Authors: Cordero Gutiérrez Iván Alfonso
Published: September 2023

Este trabajo analizó la didáctica actual utilizada en la enseñanza del derecho por profesores de diversas universidades de la ciudad de Medellín, lo que implicó un análisis comparativo de las metodologías de aprendizaje y las dinámicas. Se utilizaron los métodos cuantitativo y cualitativo para el estudio teórico y la aplicación de los instrumentos necesarios para el análisis de las muestras, que generaron las alterna­tivas que se proponen ahora frente a la utilización de los modelos de enseñanza y la implementación de los mismos con la didáctica. La investigación delimitó los modelos de enseñanza y la didáctica utilizada en la actualidad por los profesores entrevistados que enseñan derecho en las universidades de Medellín y área metropolitana. En esta primera parte, se socializarán los fundamentos histórico-filosóficos de la enseñanza del Derecho. Se busca con esta investigación establecer cuál es la metodología de aprendi­zaje y la didáctica utilizada por los entrevistados para la enseñanza del derecho, con miras a potenciali­zar las habilidades de aprendizaje de los estudiantes de derecho.

 

 Abstract

This paper analyzed the current teaching used in teaching law professors from various universities in the city of Medellin, which involved a comparative analysis of learning methodologies and dinámicas. Se used quantitative and qualitative methods for the theoretical study and the implementation of the neces­sary tools for the analysis of samples, generating alternatives being proposed against the use of teach­ing models and implement them with the teaching. Research delimited teaching models and teaching currently used by respondents law professors teaching in universities and metropolitan area of Medellín. In this first part, the historical and philosophical foundations of legal education will be socialized. This research seeks to establish what learning methodology and didactics used by respondents to the teach­ing of law in order to potentiate the learning skills of law students.