bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Perceived Health-Related Effectiveness of ‘The Daily Mile’ Initiative in Irish Primary Schools
Authors: Hanna Luke , Burns Con , O’Neill Cian , Coughlan Edward
Published: June 2024

Seventy-seven percent of Irish primary school children do not meet recommended physical activity (PA) guidelines [1]. The Daily Mile (TDM) is a primary school initiative designed to increase children’s PA output. This study evaluates TDM’s perceived effect on Irish primary school children’s health-related metrics. A mixed-methods study, comprising two data collection phases, used the RE-AIM framework to evaluate TDM [2]. Phase one involved teachers, principals and classroom assistants (n = 191) from TDM-registered schools completing a questionnaire. Two TDM-registered schools participated in phase two where, (i) interviews were conducted with each principal, (ii) a teacher sub-sample (n = 4) participated in a focus group and (iii) a child sub-sample (n = 14) participated in separate focus groups. TDM was perceived to positively impact markers of children’s health, including their PA behaviour, physical fitness and social wellbeing. Inclement weather (66.5%) and a lack of time (56.5%) were reported as the top-ranked implementation barriers. Moreover, TDM’s repetitive nature often left children feeling disinterested and resulted in some teachers modifying the initiative to maintain engagement levels. Maintaining the long-term implementation of TDM and its health benefits in primary schools may require bespoke amendments to the original format to preserve children’s engagement.
Advancements in Precision Oncology: AI and Machine Learning Applications in Digital Pathology
Authors: Ramazanova Zamart , Ashimova Assem , Baiken Yeldar , Matkarimov Bakhyt , Myngbay Askhat , Urazbaev Arshat
Published: June 2024

Over the past 10 years, developments in precision oncology have led to a rise in the demand for predictive tools that assist the screening and stratification of patients for treatment. The possibility digitizing tissue slide images has led to the creation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning algorithms in digital pathology, which could ultimately improve patient care. In this context, we assessed a variety of AI-based computational models for digital pathology. In this review, we described the latest AI applications in oncology, current challenges and future prospects.
Understanding Sandfly Vector Dynamics: Molecular Surveillance of Papatasi Fever Virus in Robat Karim County, Tehran
Authors: Abbasi EBRAHIM
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Papatasi fever, or three-day fever, is a viral disease transmitted by a species of female sandfly called Phlebotomus papatasi that has symptoms similar to influenza. Robat Karim County, due to the high abundance of Sandfly and climate change in recent years, provides a suitable environment for the growth and reproduction of Sandfly, especially Phlebotomus papatasi Therefore, the aim of this study was molecular monitoring of Papatasi fever virus in Sandfly of Robat Karim County, Tehran province. Materials and methods: In 7 selected areas in Robat Karim County, 679 Sandfly using sampling methods including traps and aspirators were caught and 500 samples were randomly selected according to the fishing location and transferred to the laboratory of the Medical Entomology Department. After fixing Sandfly on the slide surface, identification and percentage of frequency of sandfly species were determined and then by Real-time PCR method, molecular examination of Papatasi virus infection was performed at Tehran Pasteur Institute. Findings: Out of 679 samples taken, 310 (45.65%) belonged to males and 369 (54.35%) belonged to females. 7 species including 3 species of Sandfly of the genus Phlebotomus and 4 species of the genus Sergentomyia were identified among the samples, the highest percentage of catch belonged to Phlebotomus sergenti (28.57%). Of the 500 samples sent to the laboratory for testing for phleboviruses by Real-time PCR, no positive cases of Papatasi virus infection were observed in them. Conclusion: Robat Karim is one of the endemic areas of infectious diseases such as leishmaniasis. Due to climate change in this region that conditions for the growth and reproduction of Sandfly, especially Phlebotomus papatasi as a Vector of sandfly fever and since the sandfly fever disease is not vaccinated therefore, preventive measures to control and reduce diseases transmitted by Sandfly are important.
Thermophysical Characterization of Materials for Energy-Efficient Double Diaphragm Preforming
Authors: Dandangi Srikara , Ravandi Mohammad , Naser Jamal , Di Pietro Adriano
Published: June 2024

The Double Diaphragm Forming (DDF) process uses vacuum pressure and heat to pre-shape composite reinforcements between flexible diaphragms. Accurate modelling of heat transfer within DDF requires knowledge of the thermophysical properties of the constituent materials. This study investigates the specific heat and thermal conductivity of silicone diaphragms, carbon fibers (chopped and powdered), thermoplastic veils, and their combinations. Experiments measured the specific heat of each material using differential scanning calorimetry and the thermal conductivity of silicone and carbon fabric preforms using the transient plane source method and modified transient plane source method respectively. The influence of reheating cycles on specific heat of carbon fiber-veil samples and the effect of compaction on thermal conductivity of silicone and carbon fabrics were explored. While silicone exhibited linear specific heat behavior, the thermoplastic veil showed non-linearity due to phase change. The combined carbon fiber-veil samples demonstrated slight non-linear specific heat variations depending on reheating cycles. Thermal conductivity of the fabric preforms decreased with the addition of thermoplastic veil and under vacuum-compaction conditions. The established temperature-dependent property relationships provide valuable data for optimizing DDF preforming parameters and enhancing energy efficiency in composite manufacturing.
Intratumoral Microbiome: Foe or Friend in Reshaping Tumor Microenvironment Landscape?
Authors: Kyriazi Athina A. , Karaglani Makrina , Agelaki Sofia , Baritaki Stavroula
Published: June 2024

The role of the microbiome in cancer and its crosstalk with the tumor microenvironment (TME) has been extensively studied and characterized. An emerging field in the cancer microbiome research is the concept of the intratumoral microbiome, which refers to the microbiome residing within the tumor. This microbiome primarily originates from the local microbiome of the tu-mor-bearing tissue or from translocating microbiome from distant sites, such as the gut. Despite the increasing number of studies on intratumoral microbiome, it remains unclear whether it is a driver or a bystander of oncogenesis and tumor progression. This review aims to elucidate the intricate role of the intratumoral microbiome in tumor development by exploring its effects on reshaping the multi-leveled ecosystem in which tumors thrive, the TME. To dissect the complexity and the multitude of layers within the TME, we distinguish six specialized tumor microenvironments, namely the immune, metabolic, hypoxic, acidic, mechanical and innervated microenvironments. Accordingly, we attempt to decipher the effects of the intratumoral microbiome on each specialized microenvironment and ultimately decode its tumor-promoting or tumor-suppressive impact. Additionally, we portray the intratumoral microbiome as an orchestrator in the tumor milieu, fine-tuning the responses in distinct, specialized microenvironments and remodeling the TME in a multi-leveled and multi-faceted manner.
Zircons from Eclogite-Associated Rocks of the Marun-Keu Complex, the Polar Urals: Trace Elements and U-pb Dating
Authors: Salimgaraeva Laysan , Berezin Aleksey , Sergeev Sergey , Gubanov Nikolai , Stetskaya Ekaterina , Skublov Sergey
Published: June 2024

The Marun-Keu complex plays a significant role in understanding the geological evolution of the Ural orogen; however, it remains poorly understood. This study aims to provide insights into the complex's age, protolith composition, rock formation conditions, and its position in the region's history. The zircons from the host granitic gneisses are characterized by magmatic cores with an age of 470 Ma and metamorphic rims with an age of approximately 370 Ma. We suggest that the metamorphic rims were formed during eclogite metamorphism and that the metagranitoids hosting the eclogites experienced eclogite metamorphism simultaneously with the basic and ultrabasic rocks that are common in this area. Heterogeneous zircons were also isolated from the selvage of a pegmatite vein, in which four domains are distinguished, two to three of which can be identified within single grains, as follows: 1) igneous cores with an age of approximately 470 Ma and the geochemical characteristics of zircon crystallized in basic rocks; 2) zircons recrystallized during eclogite metamorphism with geochemical characteristics intermediate between those of the magmatic cores and true eclogitic zircon; 3) pegmatitic zircon, exhibiting the most sharply differentiated REE spectra of all four domains, characterized by a prominent positive Ce anomaly and a weakly expressed negative Eu anomaly; and 4) eclogitic zircon, observed in the form of veins and rims, superimposed in relation to the other three domains. The age of the latter three domains is within the error range and is estimated to be approximately 370 Ma. This indicates that the processes of eclogite metamorphism and the formation of pegmatites occurred at approximately the same time in the studied area.
As a Common Disturbing Ocular İssue: Dry Eye Syndrome due to Reckless Use of Digital Screens
Authors: Karaarslan Cuneyt , Coskun Arzu
Published: June 2024

The excessive and prolonged use of the electronic devices with digital screens may cause some serious health problems.
The ocular surface problems particularly Dry Eye Syndrome may be the most common and preventable one of them.
In this study, unfavourable and potentially harmful effects of digital screens on lacrimal system and tear functions were evaluated in 221 participants. Their ocular surface conditions were evaluated by Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) scores and their lacrimal functioning was measured by Schirmer’s test..
A reciprocal and statistically significant relationship was found between dry eye symptoms and OSDI scores. This relationship was more prominent especially in long duration use of smartphones with brighter background lights..
Raman Study of Novel Walls-like Nanostructured WO3 Thin Films Grown by Spray Deposition
Authors: Popescu Andreea Gabriela Marina , Tudose Ioan Valentin , Romanitan Cosmin , Popescu Marian , Manica Marina , Schiopu Paul , Suchea Mirela Petruta , Pachiu Cristina
Published: June 2024

Walls-like structured monoclinic WO3 thin films were obtained by spray deposition method for further integration in gas sensors. For sensing applications, it is very important to achieve a high surface-to-volume ratio surface together with a proper thin films structure. The present communication reports on the effect of the sprayed solution volume variation (as a thickness variation element) on the detailed Raman spectroscopy for WO3 thin films with different thicknesses grown from precursor solutions with two different concentrations. Detailed analysis of the two series of samples shows that the growing thickness strongly affects the films morphology while their crystalline structure is only slightly affected. The Raman analysis contribute to refining the structural features clarifications. It was observed that, for both concentrations, the increase in thickness seems to slightly affect the stoichiometry of material and, in association with surface morphology variations, provide new possibilities for fine tuning of films properties towards enhanced as sensing applications. Further studies are ongoing.
Connecting the Riparian Phyllosphere to Water Microbial Communities in a Freshwater Stream System
Authors: Dueker M. Elias , Lansbury Beckett , Perron Gabriel G.
Published: June 2024

The role that aquatic aerosols might play in inter-ecosystem exchange in freshwater riparian environments has largely been understudied. In these environments, where freshwater streams are used both as drinking water and for treated waste disposal, water features like waterfalls, downed trees, and increased streamflow can serve as bioaerosol producers. Such water features could have an important role in the bacterial colonization of surrounding surfaces, including the riparian phyllosphere. In this study, we explore the influence of a freshwater stream’s bacterial community composition and micropollution on riparian maple leaves exposed to bioaerosols produced from the stream. Using culture-based and non-culture-based techniques, we compared phylloplane microbial communities in riparian zones, adjacent non-riparian forested zones, and the surface waters of the stream. In this system, riparian zone maple leaf surfaces had higher bacterial counts than non-riparian zone trees. Using metagenomic profiling of the 16S rRNA gene, we found that, while microbial communities on leaves in both riparian zone and forested sites were diverse, riparian zone bacterial communities were significantly more diverse. In addition, we found that riparian leaf bacterial communities shared more amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) with stream bacterial communities than forest leaves, indicating that the riparian zone phyllosphere is likely influenced by bioaerosols produced from water surfaces.
Policy and Crisis Management During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland
Authors: Adamowicz Mieczysław
Published: June 2024

The aim of this article is to present the course of the COVID-19 pandemic in Poland in 2020-2022, the formation of ad hoc health and anti-crisis policies, an assessment of crisis management and the perceived impact of the pandemic and anti-crisis measures.The paper draws on literature, official reports on the pandemic, data from Eurostat and other information from state institutions and public organisations.Particular attention was paid to the analysis and evaluation of the objectives, instruments and effects of the policies pursued by the state in a coordinated manner, i.e. the anti-pandemic policy and the anti-crisis policy. The anti-pandemic policy in Poland has failed to protect the country from significant personal losses and negative impacts on the health of the population and demographic processes.The anti-crisis policy of the state carried out with the mobilisation of businesses and disciplined society, in the form of anti-crisis shields supplemented and adjusted on an ongoing basis, allowed Poland to avoid a deep crisis and economic recession. Attention was drawn to the need to coordinate the management of health and economic crises nationally and internationally, and to the need to have a medium-term anti-crisis state strategy and a system for the early detection of crisis symptoms.
Reproductive Outcomes in High-Yielding Holstein Cows Following Administration of GnRH on Day 5 After Artificial Insemination
Authors: Borș Silviu-Ionuț
Published: June 2024

The objectives of this study was to assess the impact of a reproductive approach in high-yielding nulliparous and parous Holstein cows on the interestrus interval, estrus detection rates, conception rates, and pregnancy rates. The strategy involved giving GnRH on day 5 following artificial insemination (AI). For nulliparous cows, there appears to be no noticeable effect of GnRH therapy on the interestrus interval. In both groups, nearly all of the cows exhibited an 18–25-day cycle interval (P < 0.05). In the 18–25 day cycle period, the untreated multiparous cows exhibited the highest proportion (P < 0.05), while the treated group demonstrated the highest proportion (P < 0.05) in the 26–35 day cycle interval. The study found that the conception rate was higher in repeat breeder nulliparous and 3+ lactation treated Holstein cows compared with untreated ones. However, the cumulative heat detection rate, pregnancy rate and conception rates were similar in both groups (P > 0.05). Also, this study found that in the hottest months of the year, this therapeutic approach can't counteract the negative effect of heat stress in high-yielding dairy cows. Thus, it is not advised of using the hormonal method to create supplementary corpus luteum across the herd.
Bone Drilling: A Review with a Lab Case Study of Bone Layer Classification Using Vibration Signal and Long Short-Term Memory
Authors: Caesarendra Wahyu
Published: June 2024

In orthopedics, bone drilling is a crucial part of a surgical method commonly carried out for internal fixation in bone fracture treatment. The primary purpose of bone drilling is the creation of holes for screw insertion to immobilize fractured parts. The bone drilling task depends on the orthopedist and surgeon’s high level of skill and experience. This paper aimed to provide a summary of previously published review studies in the field of bone drilling. This review paper also presents a comprehensive review of the application of machine learning for bone drilling and as a future direction for the automation system. This review can also help medical surgeons and bone drillers understand the latest improvements through parameter selection and optimization strategies to reduce bone damage in bone drilling procedures. Apart from the review study, bone drilling vibration data collected in the University laboratory experiment is also presented in this study. The vibration data consist of three different layers of femur cow bone which are processed and classified using several machine learning methods. LSTM is, used in the bone drilling classification study to prove that the layers of the bone drilling are associated with the vibration signal and can be classified and predicted using the machine learning method.
A Mitochondria-Targeting Fluorescent Probe for the Dual Sensing of Hypochlorite and Viscosity without Signal Crosstalk in Living Cells and Zebrafish
Authors: Gao Chao , Chen Dandan , Zhang Lin , Ma Minglan , Liu Hu-Wei , Cui Hai-Rong
Published: June 2024

Hypochlorite (ClO−) and viscosity both affect the physiological state of mitochondria, and their abnormal levels are closely related to many common diseases. Therefore, it is of great significance to develop a mitochondria-targeting fluorescent probes for the dual sensing of ClO− and viscosity. Herein, we have explored a new fluorescent probe XTAP−Bn, which responds sensitively to ClO− and viscosity with off-on fluorescence changes at 558 and 765 nm, respectively. Because the emission wavelength gap is more than 200 nm, XTAP−Bn can effectively eliminate the signal crosstalk during the simultaneous detection of ClO− and viscosity. In addition, XTAP−Bn exhibits a series of advantages, including high selectivity, rapid response, good water solubility, low cytotoxicity, and excellent mitochondrial targeting ability. More importantly, probe XTAP−Bn has been successfully employed to monitor the dynamic change of ClO− and viscosity levels in mitochondria of living cells and zebrafish. Taken together, this work not only provides a reliable tool for identifying mitochondrial dysfunction, but also offers a potential approach for the early diagnosis of mitochondrial-related diseases.
Associations between Grand Challenges and Multinational Enterprises: A Bibliometric and Thematic Analysis
Authors: Uğur Sinem Burcu , Alan Hale , Onur Neslihan , Demirel Hüsne
Published: June 2024

Grand challenges represent wicked problems that affect many people globally. To overcome grand challenges and sustain our existence as human beings, issues have become increasingly central, and in recent years have led to an increase in research and literature on grand challenges affecting both international business areas and multinational enterprises. The aim of this study is to assess the status of literature in all areas connected to multinational corporations and grand challenges, which are global issues with significant implications. From 2013 to 2023, the WoS database was used to investigate eight search terms from literature, and bibliometric and thematic analyses were carried out based on the principles of systematic literature analysis. The most focused areas of the research are performance, multinational enterprises, foreign direct investment, management, firms’ innovation, knowledge, international business, and impact. Asian, African, European, and other countries may emerge together in different clusters depending on whether the major challenges they are struggling with are similar or identical. the terms of grand challenges and innovation (open and social), technology transfer, R&D internalization, digital transformation or technology and artificial intelligence in the literature of multinational enterprises indicates that these themes are used as a tool to solve grand challenges.
Tuberculosis Reactivation in Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant Recipients: A Preemptive Strategy in an Endemic Country
Authors: Pellon-Téllez Karen , Fernandez-Vargas Omar Eduardo , Cornejo-Juárez Patricia , Martin-Onraet Alexandra , Rubalcava-Lara Luis Felipe , Alvidrez-González Rosa Adriana , Bonilla-Salcedo Andrés Yesid , Valero-Saldaña Luis , Acosta-Maldonado Brenda Lizeth
Published: June 2024

Tuberculosis (TB) remains a global public health issue, particularly in developing countries. Hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients are at elevated risk for TB due to immunosuppression. This retrospective study (2005-2022) assessed a preemptive latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) screening and treatment strategy in 338 HSCT recipients and their donors. Screening included tuberculin skin test (TST) or QuantiFERON-TB Gold (QFT), and pulmonary imaging, with positive cases receiving isoniazid (INH) therapy. Statistical analyses aimed to compare TB reactivation rates, overall survival (OS), and relapse-free survival (RFS) across HSCT groups. Of 338 patients, 92 (27%) were diagnosed with LTBI. Screening involved TST in 325 cases and QFT in 13. INH therapy was completed by 81 patients, with 5 discontinuing due to hepatotoxicity. The cumulative incidence of active TB was 0.6%, and LTBI reactivation rate in patients who received INH was 1.2%. LTBI status did not affect OS or RFS. Our study exemplifies the effectiveness of LTBI protocols incorporating TST/QFT and CT-scan testing, followed by INH therapy, in reducing TB reactivation among HSCT recipients in a high-burden region.
Insights on the Bonding Mechanism, Electronic and Optical Properties of Diamond Nanothread—Polymer and Cement—Boron Nitride Nanotube Composites
Authors: Domato Diamond C. , Munio Art Anthony Z. , Jacosalem Naomi Jane P. , Fuentes Dexter Rhys T. , Ambolode II Leo Cristobal C.
Published: June 2024

The success of composite materials is attributed to the nature of bonding at the nanoscale and the resulting structure-related properties. This study reports the interaction, electronic, and optical properties of diamond nanothread/polymers (cellulose and epoxy) and boron nitride nanotube/calcium silicate hydrate composites using density functional theory modeling. Our findings indicate that the interaction between the nanothread and polymer is due to van der Waals-type bonding. Minor modifications in the electronic structures and absorption spectra are noticed. Conversely, the boron nitride nanotube and calcium silicate hydrate composite display an electron-shared type of interaction. The electronic structure and optical absorption spectra of the diamond nanothread and boron nitride nanotube in all configurations studied in the aforementioned composite systems are well maintained. Our findings offer an electronic-level perspective into the bonding characteristics and electronic-optical properties of diamond nanothread/polymer and boron nitride nanotube/calcium silicate hydrate composites for developing next-generation materials.
Variations of VEGFR2 Chemical Space: Stimulator and Inhibitory Peptides
Authors: Lungu Claudiu N. , Mangalagiu Ionel , Gurau Gabriela , Hîncu Mihaela Cezarina
Published: June 2024

The kinase pathway plays a crucial role in blood vessel function. Particular attention is paid to VEGFR-type 2 angiogenesis and vascular morphogenesis as the tyrosin kinase pathway is preferentially activated. In silico studies were performed on several peptides that affect VEGFR2 in both stimulating and inhibitory ways. This investigation aims to examine the molecular properties of VEGFR2, a molecule primarily involved in the processes of vasculogenesis and angiogenesis. These relationships were defined by the interactions between vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and the structural features of the systems. The chemical space of the inhibitory peptides and stimulators was described using topological and energetic properties. Furthermore, chimeric models of stimulating and inhibitory proteins (for VEGFR2) were computed using the protein system structures. The interaction between the chimeric proteins and VEGFR was computed. The chemical space was further characterized using complex manifolds and high-dimensional data visualization. The results show that a slightly similar chemical area is shared by VEGFR2 and is shared by stimulating and inhibitory proteins. On the other hand, the stimulator peptides and the inhibitors have distinct chemical spaces.
Early-Stage Mapping of Winter Canola by Combining Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 Data in Jianghan Plain China
Authors: Liu Tingting , Li Peipei , Zhao Feng , Liu Jie , Meng Ran
Published: June 2024

Early and accurate mapping of winter canola planting areas provides critical support for sustainable cropland management. Although some methods have been proposed to map the winter canola at the flowering or later stage, mapping winter canola planting areas at the early stage is still challenging, due to the insufficient understanding of the multi-source remote sensing features sensitive for winter canola mapping. This study proposed an early-stage winter canola area mapping method by using the combination of optical and synthetic aperture radar (SAR) data. We analyzed the spectral features, backscatter coefficients, and textural features of winter canola based on Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-1 images. Random forest (RF) and Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification models were built to map winter canola based on early-stage images and field samples in 2017 and then apply the best model to corresponding satellite data in 2018-2022. Results showed that: (1) The red edge and near-infrared-related spectral features were most important for the mapping of early-stage winter canola, followed by VV, DVI and GOSAVI, which also showed greater differences than the other features; (2) Based on Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2 data, winter canola could be earliest mapped around 130 days prior to ripening (i.e., early overwinter stage) with the F-score over 0.85 and the OA over 81%; (3) Adding Sentinel-1 could improve the OA by about 2%-4% and the F-score by about 1% -2% in winter canola mapping. (4) The F-score of winter canola mapping based on the classifier transfer approach in 2018-2022 varied between 0.75 and 0.97, and the OA ranged from 79% to 86%. This study demonstrates the potential of early-stage winter canola mapping using the combination of Sentinel-2 and Sentinel-1 images, which could provide valuable and timely information for stakeholders and decision makers.
Comparative Study of Phytochemical Analysis and Anti-Microbial Activity of Ziziphus spina-christi L. Leaves Extracts From Different Areas in Sudan
Authors: Saied Sabir Mohamed Ibrahim , Alrasheid Ayat Ahmed
Published: June 2024

We conducted a study exploring the potential of the medicinal plant Ziziphus spina-christi as a source of antimicrobial compounds. With the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, we were particularly interested in evaluating plant-derived natural products for their ability to fight infections. We collected Z. spina-christi leaves from four different regions in Sudan and extracted them with ethanol. Our phytochemical screening revealed the presence of several secondary metabolites, including flavonoids, triterpenes, sterols, tannins, saponins, cardiac glycosides, and reducing sugars. Alkaloids and anthraquinones were not detected. We then tested the ethanolic extracts for antimicrobial activity against a range of bacterial and fungal pathogens using the agar well diffusion method. Interestingly, we observed significant differences between the extracts from different locations. The extract from Khartoum city exhibited the highest antimicrobial potency, followed by the extracts from Al-Rahad, Al-Hidiba, and finally Al Damazin. Based on these findings, we concluded that Z. spina-christi leaves contain a diverse array of phytochemicals with potential medicinal applications. The variation in antimicrobial effects between the extracts may be attributed to environmental factors influencing the plant's chemical composition. Further research is warranted to identify the specific bioactive compounds responsible for the observed antimicrobial activities. This could pave the way for the development of plant-based antimicrobial agents to combat drug-resistant pathogens and alleviate the global public health crisis posed by the rise of antibiotic resistance.
Multi-Agent DRL-Based Dynamic Task Offloading in D2D-MEC Network to Minimize Average Task Delay with Deadline Constraints
Authors: He Huaiwen , Yang Xiangdong , Mi Xin , Shen Hong , Liao Xuefeng
Published: June 2024

Device to Device (D2D) is a pivotal technology in the next generation of communication, allowing for direct task offloading between mobile devices (MDs) to improve the efficient utilization of idle resources. This paper proposes a novel algorithm for dynamic task offloading between active MDs and idle MDs in the D2D-MEC (Mobile Edge Computing) system by deploying multi-agent deep reinforcement learning (DRL) to minimize the long-term average delay of delay-sensitive tasks under deadline constraints. Our core innovation is a dynamic partitioning scheme for idle and active devices in the D2D-MEC system, accounting for stochastic task arrivals and multi-time-slot task execution, which has been insufficiently addressed in existing literature. We adopt a queue-based system to formulate a dynamic task offloading optimization problem. To address the challenges of large action space and coupling of actions across time slots, we model the problem as a Markov Decision Process (MDP) and perform the multi-agent DRL through Multi-Agent Proximal Policy Optimization (MAPPO). We employ a centralized training with decentralized execution (CTDE) framework to enable each MD to make offloading decisions solely based on its local system state. Extensive simulations demonstrate the efficiency and fast convergence of our algorithm. In comparison with the existing sub-optimal results deploying single-agent DRL, our algorithm reduces the average task completion delay by 11.0% and the ratio of dropped tasks by 17.0%.
The Combined Evaluation of Preoperative Serum CEA and Postoperative Tissue CEA as One Factor on the Prognosis of 0~ⅣColorectal Cancer
Authors: Tong Jun Guo , Li Hui , Shen Yan , Tan Zhenhua , Qian Hai
Published: June 2024

Background: The role of preoperative serum carcinoembryonic antigen (sCEA) and postopeative tissue CEA (tCEA ) were widely elaborated separately for colorectal cancer (CRC). But the role of the combined sCEA and tCEA was scarcely described by now. Methods: 1757 cases of 0~ⅣCRC from January 2006 to January 2016 in our institution were involved. Clinicopathological features and follow up data were collected. 0 stage was combined into 0&Ⅰ stages. SCEA was classified to normal and high(>10ng/ml) and tCEA were classified into three grades (+,++,+++). So combined groups were six (2ⅹ3). ANOVA and Crosstab were used to analyze continuous and counting data, Univariate and multivariate were analyzed by Cox regression. All data were analyzed by SPSS27 and survival curves with number at risk were visualized by R 4.3.1. Results: Gender, age, tumor location, tumor size, blood loss, T stage, differentiation, harvested lymph nodes, positive lymph nodes, chemotherapy, TNM stage and complication have difference between the combined CEA test (all P
Hydrological Modeling in Small Basins: Case Study in the Pau de Caixeta Stream Basin—Federal District—Brazil
Authors: Bezerra Eliza C. B. , Nascimento Carlos Tadeu C. , Miranda Renato B. , Mauad Frederico F.
Published: June 2024

The rapid urban expansion requires an effective management of water resources in small basins, where data are often limited. This article addresses a combination of an empirical hydrological model and Steven Method, a flow extrapolation method that considers the morphological char-acteristics of the cross-section. It also proposes an approach for overcoming the challenges asso-ciated with the lack of information on small water basins in rural to urban transition. A rain-fall event occurred in Pau de Caixeta stream basin (33,7 km²), in the Federal District (DF), in De-cember 2022, was evaluated. The simulation was carried out on the decision support system, Analysis of Complex Basins (ABC), using the rainfall registred by the rain gauge instaled within the monitered area with 3 hours duration and 38 mm of total rainfall, in addiction to the mor-phological and hydraulics characteristics of the study section. The basin presented in this study, has a classification regarding land use: i) urban area: horizontal and vertical residential neigh-borhoods (in the study phase) and rapidly expanding urban infrastructure, ii) rural areas and iii) environmental preservation areas. The results were within the acceptable range of flow extrap-olation errors (16%), indicating the integration of the proposed approaches can guide the devel-opment of impact mitigation strategies and promote sustainable practices in sub-basins.
Navigating the Labyrinth of the Mind: Exploring Brain Models Through Complex Differential Equations
Authors: Montgomery Richard Murdoch
Published: June 2024

The endeavor to decode the brain's intricate architecture and its multifaceted functions has propelled scientists into the domain of complex differential equations, aiming to construct a computational framework capable of representing its uncountable intricacies. This article delves into the sophisticated and daunting task of modeling the brain, a system of seemingly uncountable coupled differential equations, each symbolizing the vast array of interconnected neural pathways and processes. We discuss the current limitations of computational resources and the significant challenges faced in accurately capturing the non-linear, high-dimensional, and plastic nature of neural dynamics. Despite these challenges, we explore the progressive strides in computational neuroscience that lay the groundwork for partial models, offering insights into the brain's localized circuits and broader network interactions. These models serve as pivotal stepping stones towards a more comprehensive understanding, which is incrementally built upon by interdisciplinary approaches, leveraging advancements in neuroimaging, data analysis, and theoretical biology. Looking ahead, the article speculates on the potential paradigm shifts that could arise from breakthroughs in computational technology, such as quantum computing, that may one day enable the simulation of the brain in its entirety. The article ultimately paints a picture of cautious optimism, where each incremental discovery is a valuable piece of the grand puzzle, bringing us closer to the epochal goal of comprehensively modeling the human brain.
Synthesis of Substituted 1,2-Dihydroisoquinolines by Palladium-Catalyzed Cascade Cyclization–Coupling of Trisubstituted Allenamides With Arylboronic Acids
Authors: Yoshida Masahiro , Imaji Ryunosuke , Shiomi Shinya
Published: June 2024

1,2-Dihydroisoquinolines are important compounds due to their biological and medicinal activities, and numerous approaches to their synthesis have been reported. In this study, a palladium-catalyzed cascade cyclization-coupling of trisubstituted allenamides containing a bromoaryl moiety with arylboronic acids is described. The reaction proceeds via intramolecular cyclization, followed by transmetallation with the arylboronic acid of the resulting allylpalladium intermediate. A variety of substituted 1,2-dihydroisoquinolines were concisely obtained using this methodology because the allenamides, as reaction substrates, were prepared from readily available propargylamines in one step.
Low Iron Diet Improves Clinical Arthritis in the Mouse Model of Collagen-Induced Arthritis
Authors: Scholz Godehard Albert , Xie Sisi , Arsiwala Tasneem , Vogel Monique , Bachmann Martin , Möller Burkhard
Published: June 2024

Background: In response to inflammation, the absorption of nutritional iron is restricted. Multiple inflammation-related signaling pathways can lead to ferroptosis, an iron-dependent mechanism of programmed cell death. Since the pathophysiological significance of the presence and uptake of iron in chronic inflammation is still unknown, we tested the effect of a low iron diet on the clinical course of arthritis in the mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA).
Methods: Six- to eight-week-old male DBA/1 mice were fed either a normal or a low iron diet starting three weeks before arthritis induction. From day four after the collagen-booster made on day 25, the development of arthritis was regularly monitored until the end of the experiment (day 34), using a standard clinical arthritis score. The complete blood count was determined as well as Fe2+, Fe3+, oxidized and reduced glutathione (GSH and GSSG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in whole paw tissue by ELISA. Quantitative PCR was performed from whole paw tissue for glutathione peroxidase 4 and other key regulator genes of iron metabolism and ferroptosis. We used nonparametric tests to com-pare markers of iron metabolism and ferroptosis as well as nonlinear regression models for longitu-dinal data for signs of arthritis.
Results: Mice fed a low iron diet showed a significantly less severe course of arthritis compared to mice fed a normal iron diet (p
Анализ динамики эпидемического процесса COVID-19 в мире за неделю с 01.06.2024 г. по 07.06.2024 г.
Authors: Зимирова Анастасия , Поспелов Михаил , Иванова Александра , Дмитриева Людмила , Чумачкова Елена , Карнаухов Игорь , Щербакова Светлана , Кутырев Владимир
Published: June 2024

В обзоре представлен анализ эпидемиологической ситуации в странах мира по COVID-19 за неделю с 01.06.2024 г. по 07.06.2024 г.
Management of a Proximal Femoral Central Physeal Bar in a 3-Year-Old Child Using a Novel Surgical Technique
Authors: Chauhan Prakash , Chandankere Vidyasagar , Ganjwala Dhiren
Published: June 2024

Case:

We present a proximal femoral central physeal bar secondary to femoral neck fracture management, in a 3-year-old boy. He presented with progressive femoral neck deformity and limb length discrepancy. He was managed with a novel technique of bar resection by drilling and polymethylmethacrylate interposition. After 5 years of follow-up, the hip score by Ratliff criteria was good.

Conclusion:

Screw penetration across physis during management of femoral neck fracture can cause growth arrest in a young child. Our technique is useful when physeal bar is central and linear. It can allow sufficient growth and remodeling to restore a near-normal hip both radiologically and clinically.
Influence of Compression Ratio on Pressure in the Cylinder of Internal Combustion Engine
Authors: Agalarov Jafar , Hasanova Tukezban , Imamalieva Jamila
Published: June 2024

Currently, engines with variable compression ratios are not used, presumably due to the complexity of the design. Regulating the compression ratio is a complex problem, for which various engines are being developed that differ in design, kinematics, method of regulating the load and changing the compression ratio. This paper presents the results of calculating efficiency and fuel consumption for crankshaft speeds of 2000 rpm and 4000 rpm with a compression ratio of 8.6 and a rotation speed of 4000 rpm with a compression ratio of 13 and combustion characteristics m = 3 and m = 1 are presented. It is shown that these characteristics at higher speeds approach those at lower speeds with increasing compression ratio. The engine parameters were calculated for various modes based on Wiebe theory. Based on the above calculations, efficiency and fuel consumption are determined for the corresponding modes and nature of engine operation. As a result of the calculations, it was obtained: with an increase in the crankshaft rotation speed, the Cycle Efficiency Coefficient will decrease by almost half and fuel consumption will accordingly increase; with an increase in the compression ratio, the Efficiency Coefficient is restored and fuel consumption is accordingly reduced.
Steppogenin exhibits antiangiogenic activity through inhibition of DLL4 and Notch1 in endothelial cells
Authors: Ha Seung Hwan , You Jihye , Kim Hyoung-Geun , Kim Se Ha , Baek Nam-In , Jung Jong Hwa , Kim Jeong Ah , Lee You-Mie
Published: June 2024

In vascular sprouting, tip endothelial cells (ECs) express delta-like 4 (DLL4), and stalk ECs express neurogenic locus notch homolog protein 1 (NOTCH1). The DLL4/NOTCH1 signaling regulates EC migration and proliferation in angiogenesis. Steppogenin (2), a flavanone isolated from Morus alba L., has a significant inhibitory property against DLL4 in ECs. This study aimed to identify natural compounds that can inhibit the DLL4/NOTCH1 signaling pathway in the presence of VEGF in ECs. Ten natural compounds including flavanone derivatives were screened. 2 inhibited DLL4 and NOTCH1 activities. However, sanggenon F (4) only suppressed DLL4 activity, and dehydrovomifoliol (9) inhibited NOTCH1 activity alone. The inhibitory effects of sanggenon F (4) and steppogenin (2) against EC migration was better than those of dehydrovomifoliol (9). However, EC proliferation was suppressed by steppogenin (2), sanggenon F (4), and dehydrovomifoliol (9). Therefore, DLL4 had a better regulatory effect on EC migration than NOTCH1. Dehydrovomifoliol inhibited EC sprouting by 60% compared with VEGF alone. Compared to 9, 2 and 4 showed more inhibitory activity on 3D sprouting ability, thereby indicating that DLL4 activity strongly mediates EC sprouting in angiogenesis. DLL4 and NOTCH1 inhibition by steppogenin significantly enhanced antiangiogenic activity. Further, DLL4 and NOTCH1 inhibition might be more efficient than DLL4 or NOTCH1 inhibition alone for treating angiogenic diseases, such as cancer.
Epstein-Barr virus hepatitis mimicking septic shoulder arthritis: case report and literature review
Authors: Jang Byung-Woong , Choi Hyung Suk , Kim Chang Hyun , Seo Gi-Won , Kim Jinjae , Kim Yong Beom
Published: June 2024

Background
Septic arthritis is a medical emergency because it can cause irreversible damage to joint cartilage and lead to serious complications and life-threatening consequences. So early diagnosis and proper treatment of septic arthritis are critical. But, the physician may miss other systemic diseases or misdiagnose the patient in the process leading to diagnosis.
Case presentation:
A 16-year-old female was admitted with myalgia-like shoulder pain. She had a history of injection on both shoulders, and she was complaining of inflammatory patterned pain. Unlike our suspicion of septic arthritis, MRI showed normal findings. However, we were able to finally diagnose myalgia accompanied by acute hepatitis caused by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) through the laboratory findings. The patient underwent conservative treatment including fluid therapy, hepatotonics, and restriction of medications which cause hepatotoxicity. Shoulder pain improved gradually from the second day of treatment. Within one week, both symptoms and laboratory findings fully improved.
Conclusions
If a young adult patient has myalgia-like joint pain with an inflammatory sign, a detailed diagnostic approach is needed including thorough history taking and laboratory tests. Additionally, in the process of diagnosing septic arthritis, it is necessary to consider a differential diagnosis of viral infection as part of systemic symptoms such as EBV hepatitis.
Oral Microbiome and CPT1A Function in Fatty Acid Metabolism in Oral Cancer
Authors: Kim Mi Kyung , Praveen Zeba , Choi Sung , Lee Jong Ho , Park Joo , Oh Hyun Jun , Kwon Ik Jae , Park Jin Hee
Published: June 2024

The oral microbiome plays vital roles in the human microbiome and human health. Although oral-microbiome dysbiosis can cause oral diseases and contribute to oral cancer, these relationships remain unclear. In this case-control study, we aimed to elucidate the link between the oral microbiome and potential mechanisms that can promote oral cancer progression. This study involved 1,022 participants, with the discovery and validation datasets including 637 patients (104 with oral cancer cases and 533 controls) and 385 patients (53 with oral cancer cases and 332 controls), respectively. Machine learning was employed, and the LightGBM model revealed four bacterial genera that were significantly associated with oral cancer. Streptococcus and Parvimonas were more abundant in the oral cancer group, whereas Corynebacterium and Prevotella showed decreased abundances. The levels of enzymes associated with fatty acid oxidation, such as carnitine O-palmitoyltransferase 1 (CPT1A), long-chain acyl-CoA synthetase, acyl-CoA dehydrogenase, diacylglycerol choline phosphotransferase, and H+-transporting ATPase, were significantly higher in patients with oral cancer than in control subjects. Streptococcus and Parvimonas correlated positively with the cytokines interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and CPT1A, whereas Corynebacterium and Prevotella showed negative correlations. Our findings suggest a potential association between the changes in four distinct microbiomes and alterations in specific cytokines and enzymes in the context of oral cancer carcinogenesis. These microbiomes may function as promising predictive markers for oral cancer and improve its diagnostic accuracy.