bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inhibition of PFKFB3 Expression Stimulates Macrophage-Mediated Lymphangiogenesis Post-Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Cui Tianyi , Feng Chao , Jiang Hantao , Jin Ying , Feng Jinping
Published: November 2023

Background: The dilation of lymphatic vessels plays a critical role in maintaining heart function, while a lack thereof could contribute to heart failure (HF), and subsequently to an acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Macrophages participate in the induction of lymphangiogenesis by secreting vascular endothelial cell growth factor C (VEGF-C), although the precise mechanism remains unclear. Methods: Intramyocardial injections of adeno-associated viruses (AAV9) to inhibit the expression of VEGFR3 (VEGFR3 shRNA) or promote the expression of VEGFR3 (VEGFR3 ORF) in the heart; Myh6-mCherry B6 D2-tg mice and flow cytometry were used to evaluate the number of myocellular debris in the mediastinal lymph nodes; fluorescence staining and qPCR were used to evaluate fluorescence analysis; seahorse experiment was used to evaluate the level of glycolysis of macrophages; Lyz2𝐶𝑟𝑒, VEGFCfl/fl, and PFKFB3fl/fl mice were used as a model to knock out the expression of VEGF-C and PFKFB3 in macrophages. Results: The escalation of VEGFR3 in cardiac tissue can facilitate the drainage of myocardial debris to the mediastinal lymph nodes, thereby improving cardiac function and reducing fibrosis after reperfusion injury. Conversely, myeloid VEGF-C deficiency displayed an increase in macrophage counts and inflammation levels following reperfusion injury. The inhibition of the critical enzyme PFKFB3 in macrophage glycolysis can stimulate the manifestation of VEGF-C in macrophages. A deficiency in myeloid PFKFB3 is associated with induced lymphangiogenesis following reperfusion injury. Conclusions: Our initial investigations suggest that the suppression of PFKFB3 expression in macrophages could potentially stimulate the production of VEGF-C in these immune cells, which in turn may facilitate lymphangiogenesis and mitigate the inflammatory effects of I/R injury.
“A jest with a sad brow”: Shakespeare’s ambivalent insults
Authors:   Université Paul-Valéry Montpellier 3, France., Vienne-Guerrin Nathalie
Published: November 2023

Shakespeare’s insults are ambivalent creatures that oscillate between humour and pathos. That is what this article aims to show. It focuses on the part insults play in the articulation of humour and pathos in Shakespeare’s plays, Falstaff and his reference to “a jest with a sad brow” appearing as a case in point. Through examples taken from Much Ado About Nothing, Love’s Labour’s Lost, King Henry IV, Hamlet, Othello, and A Midsummer Night’s Dream, the article explores how insults and moments of insult convey the complex and fragile balance between humour and pathos. It shows that Shakespeare’s theatre of insult is based on the tension between laughter and tears, between the ludic and the serious modes or humours of insult, at a time when the word ‘humour’ was mainly conceived in the plural and still referred to fluid(s) rather than wit. This article first analyses how Shakespeare’s plays reveal a breach between humour and pathos by dramatizing, on the one hand what is called “skirmish[es] of wit” in Much Ado About Nothing, and, on the other hand, what is called “heart-struck injuries” in King Lear. After dissociating comic and tragic insults, the article then shows how Shakespeare cultivates moments of insult when the spectators do not know whether they should laugh or cry, moments when insults waver between humour and pathos, between mirth-making and grief-making, moments in which insults hurt even when they are supposed to be humorous. This ambivalence is related to the ambivalence that is at the heart of the way the tongue is represented in Shakespeare’s world which points to its essential volatility, unpredictability and instability.
I am a Comedian, That’s My Job:
Authors:   Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, India., Vishal Raj , Himangi Priya ,   Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee, India.
Published: November 2023

In an epoch characterized by rapid digitalization, the proliferation of disinformation, and the deepening schisms within society, the significance of stand-up comedy has assumed unprecedented prominence. Its popularity is burgeoning on a global scale, and concurrently, the Indian comedy landscape has witnessed a remarkable influx of talent over recent decades. Among this exceptional cohort of comedic voices, Vir Das emerges as a prominent figure. Known for his incisive humour, he ventures far beyond light-hearted humour, delving into the heart of pivotal societal issues. This article discusses the profound impact of comedy and satire in catalysing socio-critical transformations through a discerning analysis of select jokes from Vir Das’s repertoire. As such, it is organized into three distinct sections, each contributing to the overarching objective. The initial section offers a concise exploration of the historical evolution of comedy, with a particular focus on its development within the Indian context. Subsequently, the second section delves into the core concept of stand-up comedy as a potent medium for activism, grappling with fundamental questions regarding the gravity and consequential influence of comedic discourse. Lastly, the concluding section meticulously conducts a comprehensive thematic analysis of Vir Das’s body of work, accentuating his pivotal role as a stand-up activist.
Lugubrious Victorians, Ludicrous Narratives:
Authors:   Yeditepe University, Turkey, Balci Nurdan
Published: November 2023

Given the socio-economic circumstances of the Victorian Era, one of its unassailable facts was that the conservative and solemn spirit of the time created a claustrophobic social atmosphere for some of its occupiers. Victorian, as well as Neo-Victorian novels register an exigency for laughter partly as a response to this solemnity. As a successful representative of the latter, Jane Harris’ debut novel, The Observations (2006) narrates the dolorous life of an Irish girl, Bessy Buckley who is taken on as a maid in a Scottish manor and is asked to perform strange duties assigned to her by the mistress of the house. This study attempts to unearth The Observations’ versatile approach to the notion of comic on three functional levels by resting on Alexander Bain’s notion of ‘ludicrous degradation.’ Firstly, the study scrutinizes comicality arising out of situations in which clashes of value and meaning occur. Secondly, it explains how ludicrous degradation turned into humour allows for psychological release. Thirdly, it looks at how Bessy’s sense of humour works as a coping mechanism and an antidote for Victorian pathos apart from being a literary source of amusement.
R. K. Narayan's (Post-)Colonial Perspective:
Authors:   Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic, Volna Ludmila
Published: November 2023

R. K. Narayan (1906-2001) is considered one of the founding fathers of Indian writing in English, along with Raja Rao, Mulk Raj Anand and G.V. Desani, and is best known for creating the imaginary town of Malgudi. Another important feature of his fiction is what both critics and readers call a gentle or light-hearted humour. Humour has often been used to both subvert and survive various forms of political oppression (see Ştefănescu, Tripathi and Chettri). In Narayan, Malgudi, the centre of the action, is both a colonial and a post-colonial town, created and recreated over years and even decades. Since Malgudi can be considered a metonymy of India (see Mukherjee), Narayan’s use of humour as a subversive device, together with his skilful examination of the cultural and colonial context, can be perceived as a poignant criticism of the British colonial system and what it entailed, specifically the suppression of what constitutes ‘Indianness’, the Indian way of life and cultural values. On the other hand, the light-hearted and subversive irony allows Narayan to offer a more profound insight into the human nature as such, while juxtaposing a colonial and post-colonial context.
Resume eksya ke 6
Authors: Indriyani Nolis Putri
Published: November 2023

Rangkuman ekonomi syariah pertemuan 7
Seismology for Dummies
Authors: bytchkov serguei
Published: November 2023

Abstract removed when submission was withdrawn.
Why do languages tolerate heterography? An experimental investigation into the emergence of informative orthography
Authors: Carr Jon W , Rastle Kathleen
Published: November 2023

It is widely acknowledged that opaque orthographies place additional demands on learning, often requiring many years to fully acquire. It is less widely recognized, however, that such opacity may offer certain benefits in the context of reading. For example, heterographic homophones such as ⟨knight⟩ and ⟨night⟩ (words that sound the same but which are spelled differently) impose additional costs in learning but reduce ambiguity in reading. Here, we consider the possibility that—left to evolve freely—writing systems will sometimes choose to forego some simplicity for the sake of informativeness when there is functional pressure to do so. We investigate this hypothesis by simulating the evolution of orthography as it is transmitted from one generation to the next, both with and without a communicative pressure for ambiguity avoidance. In addition, we consider two mechanisms by which informative heterography might be selected for: differentiation, in which new spellings are created to differentiate meaning (e.g., ⟨lite⟩ vs. ⟨light⟩), and conservation, in which heterography arises as a byproduct of sound change (e.g., ⟨meat⟩ vs. ⟨meet⟩). Under pressure from learning alone, orthographic systems become transparent, but when combined with communicative pressure, they tend to favor some additional informativeness. Nevertheless, our findings also suggest that, in the long term, simpler, transparent spellings may be preferred in the absence of top-down explicit teaching.
The economic foundations of democratic legitimacy: Exploring the relationship of macroeconomic inequality and trust in democratic institutions in Europe
Authors: Giustozzi Carlotta , Gangl Markus , Bienstman Simon
Published: November 2023

We use survey data from the European Social Survey to explore the implications of changing macroeconomic inequality for citizen’s trust in the main institution of democratic governance. We extend existing research on the role of economic inequality by examining an expansive set of indicators to capture increasing economic polarisation and we employ hybrid multilevel regression models to distinguish genuinely sociotropic effects of changing macroeconomic inequality from egocentric effects of citizens’ personal socio-economic status. We empirically confirm the influence of macroeconomic fundamentals, and find that after controlling for material prosperity and unemployment rates, the inequality of market incomes is the primary factor to create repercussions at the level of the basic democratic order of societies. Many other dimensions of economic inequality, from the degree of public redistribution to rising poverty levels and rising top income shares, may all constitute relevant policy issues and may relate to shifting party systems as well as shifting voter allegiances, but do not eventually call democratic fundamentals into question. Our analyses thus vindicate conjunctions from the modern classics of political sociology that have been seeing societal prosperity among the necessary conditions for sustaining democratic governance.
Perhitungan Harga Pokok Produksi (HPP) Loyang Guna Penentuan Harga Jual (Studi Kasus: UD. Karya Abadi)
Authors: Sari Erlin Kurnia , Irwayu Fifa Marisa , Rachmawati Maya , Amimah Faizatul , Murnawan Hery
Published: November 2023

UD Karya Abadi merupakan salah satu usaha di bidang manufaktur yang menghasilkan produk berupa loyang kue. Loyang kue yang diproduksi oleh perusahaan tersebut, memiliki beragam variasi diantaranya adalah loyang chiffon cake, loyang lidah kucing dan loyang ukuran 16. Permasalahan yang terjadi pada UD Karya Abadi yakni terkait dengan penentuan harga jual. Harga jual yang ditetapkan kurang memperhatikan Harga Pokok Produksi (HPP) dari output yang dihasilkan. Oleh karena itu, penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menentukan Harga Pokok Produksi (HPP) dari ketiga variasi loyang guna penentuan harga jual yang tepat. Pengklasifikasian biaya yang terapkan oleh UD Karya Abadi dalam perhitungan HPP menjadi input dalam melakukan penyusunan penelitian ini. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode full costing dalam penentuan HPP loyang. Metode full costing merupakan teknik penentuan harga pokok produksi dengan membebankan seluruh biaya produksi meliputi biaya bahan baku, biaya tenaga kerja langsung, biaya overhead baik berperilaku tetap maupun variabel terhadap produk (Mulyadi, 2005:17). Berdasarkan hasil analisis dan pengolahan data pada UD Karya Abadi didapatkan besar biaya material dari loyang chiffon cake memberikan presentase terhadap HPP sebesar 97.40%, biaya tenaga kerja 2.30%, biaya permesinan sebesar 0.29% dan biaya overhead sebesar 0%. Besar biaya material dari loyang lidah kucing memberikan presentase terhadap HPP sebesar 86,26%, biaya tenaga kerja 9,33%, biaya permesinan sebesar 0,38% , biaya overhead sebesar 4,03%  dan besar biaya material dari loyang ukuran 16 memberikan presentase terhadap HPP sebesar 86,65%, biaya tenaga kerja 7,73%, biaya permesinan sebesar 0,95% dan biaya overhead sebesar 4,67%.Kata kunci: UD Karya Abadi, Loyang Kue, HPP, Metode Full costing, Harga Jual
On categoricity questions for universal unars and undirected graphs under semantic Jonsson quasivariety
Authors: Yeshkeyev A.R. , Yarullina A.R. , Amanbekov S.M.
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to the study of semantic Jonsson quasivarieties of universal unars and undirected graphs. The first section of the article consists of basic necessary concepts from Jonsson model theory. The following two sections are results of using new notions of semantic Jonsson quasivariety of Robinson unars JCU and semantic Jonsson quasivariety of Robinson undirected graphs JCG, its elementary theory and semantic model. In order to prove two main results of the paper, Robinson spectra RSp(JCU) and RSp(JCG) and their partition onto equivalence classes [∆]U and [∆]G by cosemanticness relation were considered. The main results are presented in the form of theorems 11 and 13 and imply following useful corollaries: countably categorical Robinson theories of unars are totally categorical; countably categorical Robinson theories of undirected graphs are totally categorical. The obtained results can be useful for continuation of the various Jonsson algebras’ research, particularly semantic Jonsson quasivariety of S-acts over cyclic monoid.
On the function approximation by trigonometric polynomials and the properties of families of function classes over harmonic intervals
Authors: Yessenbayeva G.A. , Yesbayev A.N. , Syzdykova N.K. , Smirnova M.A.
Published: November 2023

The article is devoted to research on approximation theory. When approximating functions by trigonometric polynomials, the spectrum is chosen from various sets. In this paper, the spectrum consists of harmonic intervals. Devices, various processes, perception of the senses have a limited range. In the mathematical modeling of numerous practical problems and in the further study of such mathematical models, it is sufficient to find a solution in this range. It is possible to study such models to some extent with the help of harmonic intervals. To prove the main theorem, an auxiliary lemma was proved, and elements of the theory of approximations with respect to harmonic intervals were used. For the constructed families of function classes associated with the best approximations by trigonometric polynomials with a spectrum of harmonic intervals, their relationship with classical Besov spaces is shown.
IMPACT OF ACUTE EXPERIMENTAL BLOOD LOSS ON DIURESIS AND FILTERING CAPACITY OF KIDNEYS AND EFFICACY OF CORRECTION WITH RINGER’S LACTATE SOLUTION IN COMBINATION WITH 2-ETHYL-6-METHYL-3-HYDROXYPYRIDINE SUCCINATE
Authors: Denysiuk Yu. A. , Hudyma A. A.
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The kidneys remain one of target organs in acute blood loss of various genesis. Reduced perfusion leads to an increase in renal insufficiency, primarily characterized by decreased urine production and glomerular filtration rate. Timely restoration of lost blood volume deficit stands as a critical objective in addressing hypovolemic shock. Among the first-line therapeutic approaches, the administration of balanced crystalloids in a 1:1 ratio relative to the lost blood volume has demonstrated efficacy; the combined use of antioxidants is regarded as promising. This study aims to investigate the impact of acute experimental blood loss on diuresis and kidney filtration capacity, assess the effectiveness of correction with Ringer's lactate solution in combination with 2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridine succinate.

Materials and Methods: In our experiments, we induced acute blood loss equivalent to 2% of the body mass in rats and evaluated kidney function using a water stress method after 1, 3, and 7 days. We measured diuresis, creatinine levels in blood serum and urine, and glomerular filtration rate. To address the effects of blood loss, we administered Ringer's lactate solution separately and in combination with 2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridine succinate.

Results: Following the induction of acute blood loss, there was a significant reduction in diuresis and glomerular filtration rate, accompanied by an increase in creatinine levels in both blood serum and urine. These impairments worsened over the course of 1 to 7 days. Comparing the efficacy of infusion therapy with Ringer's lactate solution alone and in combination with 2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridine succinate after 7 days revealed a significantly more pronounced increase in diuresis, glomerular filtration rate, and a reduction in urine creatinine levels in the combined therapy group. These findings suggest the promising potential of combined therapy in preventing renal dysfunction in the context of acute blood loss.

Conclusions: Acute blood loss equivalent to 2% of body mass leads to disturbances in diuresis and renal filtration capacity. The administration of Ringer's lactate solution in conjunction with 2-ethyl-6-methyl-3-hydroxypyridine succinate mitigates the effects of acute blood loss and yields a more substantial improvement compared to rats treated with Ringer's lactate solution alone.
New "twists and turns" of the Belt and Road Initiative in Latin America
Authors: Safronova Elena
Published: November 2023

The purpose of the article is to find out peculiarities and new developments in the implementation of the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in Latin America. To achieve it, the author performs a number of supporting tasks: pointing out the reasons for the interest of Latin American countries in participating in the Initiative and considering the status of its main projects in the region, she analyzes difficulties in the way of the BRI, characterizing Beijing's new approaches to the mechanisms of overcoming them. The author's conclusion is that, despite all the challenges, the idea and practice of the BRI will not lose its resonance on Latin American soil, at least in the medium term. This is due to such factors as the multiplication of areas of interaction in high-tech industries known as "new infrastructure"; further aggravation of the PRC's strategic needs in resources that the continent is rich in, real expansion of the BRI area to Latin American territory, impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to China's growing international importance as a supplier of vaccines and medical expertise, intensification of joint ventures’ practice (JVs) and a number of others.
Ontology of language, with applications to demographic data
Authors: Dowland S. Clint , Smith Barry , Diller Matthew A. , Landgrebe Jobst , Hogan William R.
Published: November 2023

Here we present what we believe is a novel account of what languages are, along with an axiomatically rich representation of languages and language-related data that is based on this account. We propose an account of languages as aggregates of dispositions distributed across aggregates of persons, and in doing so we address linguistic competences and the processes that realize them. This paves the way for representing additional types of language-related entities. Like demographic data of other sorts, data about languages may be of use to researchers in a number of areas, including biomedical research. Data on the languages used in clinical encounters are typically included in medical records, and capture an important factor in patient-provider interactions. Like many types of patient and demographic data, data on a person’s preferred and primary languages are organized in different ways by different systems. This can be a barrier to data integration. We believe that a robust framework for representing language in general and preferred and primary language in particular – which has been lacking in ontologies thus far – can promote more successful integration of language-related data from disparate data sources.
Respectful Caring for the Agitated Elderly (ReCAGE): A Multicentre, Prospective, Observational Study to Evaluate the Effectiveness of Special Care Units for People with Dementia
Authors: Mendes Aline , Bergh Sverre , Cesana Bruno Mario , Handels Ron , Ciccone Alfonso , Cognat Emmanuel , Fabbo Andrea , Fascendini Sara , Frisoni Giovanni B. , Froelich Lutz , Jori Maria Cristina , Mecocci Patrizia , Merlo Paola , Peters Oliver , Tsolaki Magdalini , Defanti Carlo Alberto
Published: November 2023

Background:

Behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD) bring complexity in the clinical management of people with dementia; therefore, it is important to evaluate different models of care, such as Special Care Units (SCU-B).∥

Objective:

To evaluate the SCU-B effectiveness toward alleviating BPSD and improving the quality of life (QoL) of patients and their caregivers.∥

Methods:

ReCAGE was a multicenter, controlled, longitudinal study where 508 patients with BPSD were enrolled in two cohorts: 262 patients from centers endowed with a SCU-B, and 246 from centers without SCU-B. Statistical analyses included factorial ANCOVA for comparison among centers. The primary endpoint was effectiveness of the SCU-B, measured through the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI) changes. Secondary endpoints were change in QoL of patients and caregivers, and the tertiary endpoint was time to nursing home admission.∥

Results:

The NPI scores decreased in both arms, with a statistically significant difference from baseline to 36 months ( p < 0.0001) in both cohorts. Over time, NPI decreased more steeply during the first year in the SCU-B arm, but in the following two years the slope was clearly in favor of the control arm. This different pattern of the two cohorts reached statistical significance at the interaction “cohort by time” ( p < 0.0001). Conflicting results were found regarding the outcomes of quality of life, while there were no differences in time to institutionalization in both cohorts.∥

Conclusion:

The RECage study did not confirm the long-term superiority of the pathway comprising a SCU-B. A post-hoc analysis revealed data supporting their acute effectiveness during behavioral crises.
Normative Data in Cross-Cultural Neuropsychological Instruments in Spaniards and Colombians Living in Spain
Authors: Delgado-Álvarez Alfonso , Delgado-Alonso Cristina , Valles-Salgado María , Gil-Moreno María José , Fernández-Romero Lucía , Matías-Guiu Jorge , Matias-Guiu Jordi A.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Cross-Cultural Dementia Screening (CCD), Rowland Universal Dementia Assessment Scale (RUDAS), and European Cross-cultural Neuropsychological Test Battery (CNTB) are three novel neuropsychological instruments developed from a cross-cultural perspective to reduce the impact of culture in cognitive assessment and improve the assessment in diverse populations.

Objective:

We aimed to collect and present normative data on these tests in a majority population sample (Spaniards living in Spain) and in a minority population sample (Colombians living in Spain).

Methods:

CCD, RUDAS, and CNTB were administered to a group of 300 cognitively healthy participants (150 Spaniards and 150 Colombians). Linear regression modeling strategy was used to provide adjusted norms for demographic factors and to explore the influence of these factors on test performance.

Results:

Most of the CCD and CNTB scores were predicted by age and years of education, with some tests only predicted by age or showing a ceiling effect. The comparison of normative data between the two samples confirmed the favorable cross-cultural properties of these instruments, with only some differences in processing speed and executive functioning scores.

Conclusions:

Our study finds a comparable influence of demographic factors in both populations on the performance of CCD, RUDAS, and CNTB, confirming their adequate cross-cultural properties. We provide normative data for these tests in Spaniards and Colombians living in Spain.
RETRACTED: Analysis and prediction of novel coronavirus pneumonia epidemic using hybrid response surface method with time-series and random forest
Authors: Peng Li-Ling , Bi Xiao-Feng , Fan Guo-Feng , Wang Ze-Ping , Hong Wei-Chiang
Published: November 2023

This article has been retracted. A retraction notice can be found at https://doi.org/10.3233/JIFS-219433.
RETRACTED: An offloading method in new energy recharging based on GT-DQN
Authors: Ren Jianji , Yang Donghao , Yuan Yongliang , Liu Haiqing , Hao Bin , Zhang Longlie
Published: November 2023

This article has been retracted. A retraction notice can be found at https://doi.org/10.3233/JIFS-219433.
Gene Distribution in Pediatric-Onset Inherited Peripheral Neuropathy: A Single Tertiary Center in Thailand
Authors: Kulsirichawaroj Pimchanok , Suksangkharn Yanin , Nam Da Eun , Pho-iam Theeraphong , Limwongse Chanin , Chung Ki Wha , Sanmaneechai Oranee , Zuchner Stephan L. , Choi Byung-Ok
Published: November 2023

Background:

Inherited peripheral neuropathy presents a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge due to its association with mutations in over 100 genes. This condition leads to long-term disability and poses a substantial healthcare burden on society.

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the distribution of genes and establish the genotype-phenotype correlations, focusing on pediatric-onset cases.

Methods:

Exome sequencing and other analytical techniques were employed to identify pathogenic variants, including duplication analysis of the PMP22 gene. Each patient underwent physical examination and electrophysiological studies. Genotypes were correlated with phenotypic features, such as age at disease onset and ulnar motor nerve conduction velocity.

Results:

We identified 35 patients with pediatric-onset inherited peripheral neuropathy. Pathogenic or likely pathogenic variants were confirmed in 24 out of 35 (68.6%) patients, with 4 of these variants being novel. A confirmed molecular diagnosis was achieved in 90.9% (10/11) of patients with demyelinating Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) and 56.3% (9/16) of patients with axonal CMT. Among patients with infantile-onset CMT (≤2 years), the most common causative genes were MFN2 and NEFL, while GDAP1 and MFN2 were frequent causes among patients with childhood- or adolescent-onset CMT (3–9 years).

Conclusions:

The MFN2 gene was the most commonly implicated gene, and the axonal type was predominant in this cohort of Thai patients with pediatric-onset inherited peripheral neuropathy.
A powerful deep learning method for skin cancer detection
Authors: Obaid Ahmed Mahdi , Shawkat Aws Saad , Abdulhussein Nazar Salih
Published: November 2023

The authors discussed the issues posed by our study’s inability to accurately diagnose skin cancer and distinguish between various skin growths, especially without the aid of cutting-edge medical technology and highly skilled diagnosticians. To that purpose, the authors have developed a deep learning (DL) method that can recognise skin cancer from images. This study investigates the use of a convolutional neural network (CNN) and the Keras Sequential-application programming interface (API) to detect cancer in seven different types of chronic lesions. The researchers used the HAM10000 dataset, which is openly available. 10,015 skin growth images with annotations are included in this dataset. The authors used several data pre-processing techniques after reading the data but before training our model. The authors provide pre-trained data for comparison and reliability assessments. Examples of transfer learning models that are used for comparison include ResNet50, DenseNet121, and VGG11. In the area of skin growth classification for skin cancer diagnosis, this helps in the identification of improved DL application procedures. Over 97.12% of the time, our suggested model accurately predicts the sort of skin that will develop.
Word Formation with Foreign Lexemes: The Case of Hybrid Compounds in Arabic
Authors: Al-Jarf Reima
Published: November 2023

Arabic compounds consist of a group of two or three words joined together into one vocabulary unit. Syntactically, Arabic compounds consist of a Noun + adjective; Noun + apposited noun; Noun + apposited noun + adjective; Noun + apposited N. + apposited N; Noun + the negative particle لا no/non; compound adverbs; and compound particles. Orthographically, the lexical items in most Arabic compounds are separated by a blank, few are agglutinated (spelled together) and few more are hyphenated. This study aimed to explore the status of hybrid compounds in Arabic within its terminological structure; their denotative and connotative meanings; how productive they are; whether they are used in Standard or Colloquial Arabic; whether they are permanent or transient; in which domains they are used; and why hybrid compounds are coined by Arabic-speakers. To achieve those purposes, a corpus of hybrid compounds containing the foreign lexemes/affixes Arabia, book, café, cast, center, co, com., expo, extra, for, gate, hyper, leaks, link, mania, mart, media, meter; mini, mobile, net, pal, pedia, petro, pharma, phone, press, pro, sat, show, soft, super, talk, tech, tic, times, top, tube, ultra, web, and wiki combined with Arabic lexemes was collected. Data analysis showed that specialized hybrid compounds, those used for names of satellite T.V. station, names of electronic newspapers, news agencies and companies are more permanent than those used during the Arab Spring or those used in names of forums, blogs, T.V. shows or newspaper articles which appeared for a short time then disappeared. The former set of hybrid compounds are used in Standard Arabic and formal contexts, whereas the latter set is used in Colloquial Arabic. The former constitutes a small set of hybrid compounds coined by specialists and Arabic language academies, whereas the latter is more prolific as those compounds were created by activists, political analysts, journalists, and social media users. The study revealed promotional, linguistic, globalization and sociocultural factors for coining hybrid compounds, and lack of a business naming policy. Hybrid compounds constitute a threat to Arabic and hinder the linguistic development of the young generation.
Perkembangan, Peranan Dan Sumbangan Pertubuhan Bukan Kerajaan Wanita Islam Di Malaysia: Satu Tinjauan Awal
Authors: Abd. Azid Muhammad Adam , Nasir Khairulnazrin , Kamarul Zaman Rahim , Hussain Abdul Azib
Published: November 2023

Pertubuhan Bukan Kerajaan wanita Islam juga merupakan antara Pertubuhan Bukan Kerajaan yang turut memainkan peranan penting dalam arena aktivisme di Malaysia. Pertubuhan ini terlibat secara aktif dalam aktiviti kebajikan dan mempengaruhi polisi kerajaan terutama melibatkan hal ehwal wanita. Kajian ini dilakukan untuk mengkaji keberadaan dan penglibatan Pertubuhan Bukan Kerajaan wanita Islam di Malaysia terutama melibatkan isu-isu kewanitaan. Hal ini bagi meneliti sumbangan pertubuhan ini terhadap kaum wanita serta aspek-aspek yang perlu ditambah baik bagi memperkasakan peranan dan menjamin survival Pertubuhan Bukan Kerajaan wanita Islam di Malaysia. Kajian ini mengaplikasikan kaedah kualitatif melalui kajian kepustakaan. Sejumlah 13 Pertubuhan Bukan Kerajaan wanita Islam telah dipilih untuk dijadikan sebagai sampel bagi kajian ini. Analisis mendapati, terdapat 6 isu utama berkaitan wanita yang difokuskan oleh Pertubuhan Bukan Kerajaan wanita Islam iaitu isu pemerkasaan wanita, hak-hak wanita, kebajikan wanita, kepimpinan wanita, keagamaan wanita dan pendidikan wanita.
Muslim women’s Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) are among the NGOs that play an important role in the arena of activism in Malaysia. These organizations are actively engaged in charitable activities and influence government policy particularly related to women’s affairs. This study aims to analyze the existence and engagement of Muslim women’s NGOs in Malaysia, particularly concerning women’s issues. This paper also analyzes the role and contribution of Muslim women’s NGOs to women as well as the aspects that need to be improved to strengthen the role of Muslim women’s NGOs and ensure their survival in Malaysia. This study applied a qualitative method through library research. Thirteen Muslim women’s NGOs were selected as a sample for this study. The study found that there are six main women-related issues that Muslim women’s NGOs focus on, namely women’s empowerment, rights, welfare, leadership, religion, and education.  The findings of this study are important as attention and guidance by Muslim Women's Non-Governmental Organizations, especially the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia to further strengthen the role of Muslim Women's Non-Governmental Organizations and ensure the continuity of the Muslim women's movement that upholds Islamic Sharia in Malaysia.
Mekân İlişkisinde Göçmenlik ve Kültürel Kodlar: İstanbul Örneği
Authors: Chagel Meha , Akgün Asiye
Published: November 2023

Göç, toplumların hayatını her dönemde etkilemiştir ve etkisini sürdürmeye de devam etmektedir. Bu çalışmada; İstanbul'da yaşayan Suriyeli göçmenlerin, sosyal ve fiziksel mekân ilişkilerinde yer aidiyetleri ve kültürel kodları ile habituslarının etkileri irdelenmektedir. Göçmenlerin taşıdıkları kültürel kodları ortaya çıkarabilmek için ilişkili görülen kavramlar irdelenmiş, Suriye’deki yaşam alanları, alışkanlıkları ve sosyal yaşantılarına ilişkin bilgiler toplanmıştır. Belirli bir habitusa sahip göçmenlerin devam ettirdikleri ya da yeni edindikleri kültürel sermayelerinin mekânsal karşılığı araştırılmıştır. Bunu anlayabilmek için araştırmada, İstanbul’un sosyo-ekonomik gelişmişlik düzeyi farklı mahallelerinde yaşayan Suriyeli göçmen aileler ile derinlemesine görüşmeler yapılmıştır. Göçmenlerin, yeni yaşam alanları (konut, komşuluk ve kent merkezi) ile önceki yaşam alanları karşılaştırılmıştır. Çalışmanın bulgularına göre; göç sürecinde göçmenlerin mekânsal aidiyet duygularının gelişmesinde en önemli faktörün sosyal sermayeye dayalı olduğu anlaşılmıştır. Bu sosyal sermayenin devam ettirilmesinde ve geliştirilmesinde hemşerilik ilişkilerinin ve dil bilmenin önemli rol oynadığı tespit edilmiştir.
Application and development of nanomaterials in the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal cancer
Authors: Xiao Qianwen , Zhang Yafei , Zhao Anshun , Duan Zhikang , Yao Jun
Published: November 2023

Esophageal cancer is a malignant tumor with a high incidence worldwide. Currently, there are a lack of effective early diagnosis and treatment methods for esophageal cancer. However, delivery systems based on nanoparticles (NPs) have shown ideal efficacy in real-time imaging and chemotherapy, radiotherapy, gene therapy, and phototherapy for tumors, which has led to their recent widespread design as novel treatment strategies. Compared to traditional drugs, nanomedicine has unique advantages, including strong targeting ability, high bioavailability, and minimal side effects. This article provides an overview of the application of NPs in the diagnosis and treatment of esophageal cancer and provides a reference for future research.
Analysis of spike protein variants evolved in a novel in vivo long-term replication model for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Kim Dongbum , Kim Jinsoo , Kim Minyoung , Park Heedo , Park Sangkyu , Maharjan Sony , Baek Kyeongbin , Kang Bo Min , Kim Suyeon , Park Man-Seong , Lee Younghee , Kwon Hyung-Joo
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The spectrum of SARS-CoV-2 mutations have increased over time, resulting in the emergence of several variants of concern. Persistent infection is assumed to be involved in the evolution of the variants. Calu-3 human lung cancer cells persistently grow without apoptosis and release low virus titers after infection.

Methods

We established a novel in vivo long-term replication model using xenografts of Calu-3 human lung cancer cells in immunodeficient mice. Virus replication in the tumor was monitored for 30 days and occurrence of mutations in the viral genome was determined by whole-genome deep sequencing. Viral isolates with mutations were selected after plaque forming assays and their properties were determined in cells and in K18-hACE2 mice.

Results

After infection with parental SARS-CoV-2, viruses were found in the tumor tissues for up to 30 days and acquired various mutations, predominantly in the spike (S) protein, some of which increased while others fluctuated for 30 days. Three viral isolates with different combination of mutations produced higher virus titers than the parental virus in Calu-3 cells without cytopathic effects. In K18-hACE2 mice, the variants were less lethal than the parental virus. Infection with each variant induced production of cross-reactive antibodies to the receptor binding domain of parental SARS-CoV-2 S protein and provided protective immunity against subsequent challenge with parental virus.

Discussion

These results suggest that most of the SARS-CoV-2 variants acquired mutations promoting host adaptation in the Calu-3 xenograft mice. This model can be used in the future to further study SARS-CoV-2 variants upon long-term replication in vivo.
Discovering optimal resource allocations for what-if scenarios using data-driven simulation
Authors: Bejarano Jorge , Barón Daniel , González-Rojas Oscar , Camargo Manuel
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Data-driven simulation allows the discovery of process simulation models from event logs. The generated model can be used to simulate changes in the process configuration and to evaluate the expected performance of the processes before they are executed. Currently, these what-if scenarios are defined and assessed manually by the analysts. Besides the complexity of finding a suitable scenario for a desired performance, existing approaches simulate scenarios based on flow and data patterns leaving aside a resource-based analysis. Resources are critical on the process performance since they carry out costs, time, and quality.

Methods

This paper proposes a method to automate the discovery of optimal resource allocations to improve the performance of simulated what-if scenarios. We describe a model for individual resource allocation only to activities they fit. Then, we present how what-if scenarios are generated based on preference and collaboration allocation policies. The optimal resource allocations are discovered based on a user-defined multi-objective optimization function.

Results and discussion

This method is integrated with a simulation environment to compare the trade-off in the performance of what-if scenarios when changing allocation policies. An experimental evaluation of multiple real-life and synthetic event logs shows that optimal resource allocations improve the simulation performance.
Single femoral artery access is safe and feasible during transcatheter aortic valve replacement: a propensity score matched analysis
Authors: Yan Yunfeng , Yao Jing , Yuan Fei , Liu Xinmin , Luo Taiyang , Lu Zhinan , Chang Sanshuai , Zhang Qian , Liu Ran , Yin Chengqian , Song Guangyuan
Published: November 2023

Background

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) potentially may be significantly simplified by using the single artery access (SA) technique, which does not require a secondary artery access. Nevertheless, the safety and efficacy of this technique remains unclear. Our goal was to determine if single artery access TAVR (without upgrading the sheath size) is a feasible, minimally invasive procedure.

Methods

Patients with symptomatic severe aortic stenosis who underwent TAVR via the femoral artery were consecutively enrolled in this study. Eligible individuals were divided into 2 groups: the SA group and the dual artery access (DA) group. The primary end point was device success (defined by the valve academic research consortium 3, VARC 3). A 6-month follow-up and propensity score matching analyses were performed.

Results

After propensity score matching analysis, a total of 130 patients were included: 65 in the SA group and 65 in the DA group. The SA procedure achieved similar device success (95.4% vs. 87.7%;P = 0.115) compared with the DA procedure. The SA procedure shortened the operating time (102 min vs. 125 min;P = 0.001) but did not increase the x-ray time or dose. Both a 20 Fr and a 22 Fr sheath (without upgrading the sheath size) could be used for the SA procedure. There was no major vascular complication occurred in both groups. The incidence of minor main vascular and access complications in the SA group was comparable to those of the DA procedure (0.0% vs. 3.1%;P = 0.156).

Conclusions

The SA access procedure is a promising minimally invasive TAVR technique with a low incidence of vascular complications and a high incidence of device success. It is safe and possibly applicable in all TAVR procedures.
Bilateral adrenal hemorrhage: learning notes from clinical practice and literature review
Authors: Aloini Maria Elena , Manella Sara , Biondo Irene , Maggio Roberta , Roberto Guido , Ricci Francesca , Lardo Pina , Addario Chieco Paola , Stigliano Antonio
Published: November 2023

Adrenal hemorrhage is a rare, but important, diagnosis to recognize, in particular when there is involvement of both adrenal glands. Bilateral adrenal hemorrhage can in fact lead to adrenal insufficiency, with dramatic consequences if not promptly recognized and treated. It is normally caused by systemic conditions that lead to the vasoconstriction and thrombosis of the adrenal vein. Oftentimes, the clinical diagnosis of this condition can be very challenging, as its signs and symptoms are generalized and nonspecific (abdominal pain, nausea, and fatigue). Here, we present the cases of two patients admitted to the Emergency Department in 2016 and 2022 with acute abdominal pain, having recently undergone surgery and subsequently prescribed low-molecular-weight heparin. In both cases, laboratory results revealed neutrophilic leukocytosis and an unexplained anemia. Due to the persistence of abdominal pain despite medication, a CT scan was performed, showing an enlargement of both adrenal glands suggestive of bilateral adrenal hemorrhage. Adrenal function was tested that correlated with a diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency, and both patients were promptly treated with parenteral hydrocortisone as a result. On 5 years’ follow-up from the acute event, the second patient’s adrenal function had returned to normal, and he has not needed further adrenal replacement therapy; the first patient however demonstrated persistence of adrenal failure requiring replacement therapy. In this paper, through our experience and a literature analysis, we will aim to outline some clues to identify patients at potential risk of bilateral adrenal hemorrhage.
Nanomedicines for the management of diabetic nephropathy: present progress and prospects
Authors: Paul Paramita , Chacko Leena , Dua Tarun K. , Chakraborty Pratik , Paul Udita , Phulchand Vishwakarma Vishal , Jha Niraj K. , Jha Saurabh K. , Kandimalla Ramesh , Dewanjee Saikat
Published: November 2023

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a serious microvascular consequence of diabetes mellitus (DM), posing an encumbrance to public health worldwide. Control over the onset and progress of DN depend heavily on early detection and effective treatment. DN is a major contributor to end-stage renal disease, and a complete cure is yet to be achieved with currently available options. Though some therapeutic molecules have exhibited promise in treating DN complications, their poor solubility profile, low bioavailability, poor permeation, high therapeutic dose and associated toxicity, and low patient compliance apprehend their clinical usefulness. Recent research has indicated nano-systems as potential theranostic platforms displaying futuristic promise in the diagnosis and treatment of DN. Early and accurate diagnosis, site-specific delivery and retention by virtue of ligand conjugation, and improved pharmacokinetic profile are amongst the major advantages of nano-platforms, defining their superiority. Thus, the emergence of nanoparticles has offered fresh approaches to the possible diagnostic and therapeutic strategies regarding DN. The present review corroborates an updated overview of different types of nanocarriers regarding potential approaches for the diagnosis and therapy of DN.
Anti-Müllerian hormone beyond an ovarian reserve marker: the relationship with the physiology and pathology in the life-long follicle development
Authors: Iwase Akira , Hasegawa Yuko , Tsukui Yumiko , Kobayashi Mio , Hiraishi Hikaru , Nakazato Tomoko , Kitahara Yoshikazu
Published: November 2023

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), an indirect indicator of the number of remaining follicles, is clinically used as a test for ovarian reserve. Typically, a decline suggests a decrease in the number of remaining follicles in relation to ovarian toxicity caused by interventions, which may implicate fertility. In contrast, serum AMH levels are elevated in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. AMH is produced primarily in the granulosa cells of the preantral and small antral follicles. Thus it varies in association with folliculogenesis and the establishment and shrinking of the follicle cohort. Ovarian activity during the female half-life, from the embryonic period to menopause, is based on folliculogenesis and maintenance of the follicle cohort, which is influenced by developmental processes, life events, and interventions. AMH trends over a woman’s lifetime are associated with in vivo follicular cohort transitions that cannot be observed directly.
The application of a lightweight model FA-YOLOv5 with fused attention mechanism in insulator defect detection
Authors: Liu Jun , Hu Mingming , Dong Junyuan , Lu Xu
Published: November 2023

Insulators are important components of transmission lines, serving as support for conductors and preventing current backflow. However, insulators exposed to natural environments for a long time are prone to failure and can cause huge economic losses. This article proposes a fast and accurate lightweight Fast and Accurate YOLOv5s (FA-YOLO) model based on YOLOv5s model. Firstly, attention mechanisms are integrated into the network module, improving the model’s ability to extract and fuse target features. Secondly, the backbone part of the network is lightweightened to reduce the number of parameters and computations at the cost of slightly reducing the accuracy of detecting a few objects. Finally, the loss function of the model is improved to accelerate the convergence of the network and improve detection accuracy. At the same time, a visual insulator detection interface is designed using PyQt5. The experimental results show that the algorithm in this paper reduces the number of parameters by 28.6%, the computational effort by 35.7%, and the mAP value by 1.7% compared with the original algorithm, and is able to identify defective insulators quickly and accurately in complex backgrounds.