bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New Possibilities of A Quantitative Assessment Method for the Jebsen-Taylor Hand Function Test: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Seo Na-Yun , Lee Joo-Hyun , Jung Young-Jin
Published: June 2024

The Jebsen–Taylor Hand Function Test (JTHFT) is a standardized and objective assessment tool for evaluating hand dysfunction in various conditions (including stroke and spinal cord injury). The JTHFT has been widely used successfully in clinical settings; however, the instrument score does not reflect mechanical movement information of the upper extremities. Therefore, we developed a software to quantitatively evaluate the JTHFT. The subject’s motion was recorded using a webcam and a deep learning-based three-dimensional motion-extraction technique. Several elements were calculated from vectors between two points. Consequently, eight factors were analyzed: distance to move beans, velocity of the hand moving beans, time to move beans, time to put beans in a spoon, time to put beans in a cup, angle of the dorsum of the hand, trajectory of the hand, and total task time. The average task time was 6.82 s (standard deviation, 0.09), which within the normal range for adults. The cross-product angle of the dorsum of the hand was confirmed to be 0.01 units, depending on how tilted the hand was. In summary, we identified new quantitative assessment tools for occupational therapy; the extracted index results allowed for quantitative evaluation of the aspect that was previously impossible to judge.
Study of the main phase and the recovery phase of ICME induced geomagnetic storms during Solar Cycle 24.
Authors: Aljehani B. , Badruddin B.
Published: June 2024

We study the temporal evolution and time lag characteristics of interplanetary coronal mass ejection (ICME) induced geomagnetic storm (GS) by comparing the geomagnetic storm time evolution with the time variation of four selected solar wind plasma and interplanetary magnetic field parameters, (B, V, Bz, Ey). We selected 25 events over the Solar Cycle 24 as well as we identified their characteristics during their near-Earth passage. To analyze, we evaluate the time lag of previous parameters for 25 different intensities geomagnetic storms (GS) using (Dst/SYM-H) index which have time resolutions respectively (1 hour, 1 minute). We apply a correlation analysis of the time lag of GSs with specific features of ICMEs. We apply an exponential fit to the recovery profile for the GS events associated with ICME for hourly data between the Dst index and selected interplanetary plasma and interplanetary magnetic field parameters. These findings provide useful insight of the geomagnetic storm evolution and solar-terrestrial connection.
Controlled sodium-water reaction and its application in long-duration energy storage
Authors: Tan Da-Zhi , Chen Tongtong , Fan Wenjie
Published: June 2024

The reaction between sodium and water is often perceived as highly exothermic, potentially leading to ignition and even explosion, creating a lasting impression that the reaction is difficult to control. However, the sodium-water reaction occurs in stages rather than instantaneously. Initially, sodium reacts with water to produce sodium hydroxide and hydrogen gas, releasing heat that converts water into steam, thus posing an explosion risk due to the generated gas. Subsequently, sodium reacts with water vapor, leading to combustion and an escalating risk of runaway temperatures. Various measures can be employed to ensure the safe reaction of sodium with water. For instance, evacuating hydrogen gas under kerosene protection ensures the safe reaction of sodium and water. Similarly, timely heat dissipation under hydrogen gas protection allows for the safe reaction of sodium and water vapor. Controllable reactions between sodium and water not only address the challenge of disposing of radioactive sodium waste but can also be applied to sodium-based long-term energy storage systems. This application helps overcome the mismatch between renewable energy development and electricity demand, supporting economic growth and decoupling carbon emissions. These advancements present new opportunities for sustainable development.
Background predation risk induces neophobia in zebrafish
Authors: Thapa Himal , Salahinejad Arash , Crane Adam L. , Ghobeishavi Ahmad , Ferrari Maud C. O.
Published: June 2024

Prey face a major challenge in balancing predator avoidance with other essential activities. In environments with high risk, prey may exhibit neophobia (fear of novelty) due to the increased likelihood of novel stimuli being dangerous. The zebrafish, Danio rerio, is an established model organism for many scientific studies. Although spatial and object neophobia in zebrafish have received previous attention, little is known about the role of background risk in inducing neophobia in zebrafish. Here, we present two experiments using zebrafish to explore whether background predation risk can induce fear in a novel environment and when exposed to a novel odour. Over five days, we repeatedly exposed zebrafish to either high background risk in the form of chemical alarm cues (i.e., injured conspecific cues that indicate a predator attack) or a low-risk water control stimulus. When tested in a novel spatial environment, zebrafish exposed to high predation risk displayed fear responses (reduced activity and bottom time) compared to their low-risk counterparts. Moreover, high-risk individuals exhibited fear responses toward a novel odour, unlike low-risk individuals. These results reveal that short-term repeated exposures to high risk can induce neophobia in zebrafish.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for Brain Metastases from Human Epidermal Receptor 2 Positive Breast Cancer: An International, Multi-center Study
Authors: Pikis Stylianos , Mantziaris Georgios , Protopapa Maria , Kowalchuk Roman O. Kowalchuk , Ross Richard Blake , Rusthoven Chad G. , Tripathi Manjul , Langlois Anne-Marie Langlois , Mathieu David , Lee Cheng-chia Lee , Yang Huai-che , Peker Selcuk , Samanci Yavuz , Zhang Michael Yu , Braunstein Steve E. , Toss Salem M. , Niranjan Ajay , Wei Zhishuo , Lunsford Dade , Sheehan Jason
Published: June 2024

Purpose
To report patient outcomes and local tumor control rates in a cohort of patients with biopsy-proven HER-2 positive breast cancer treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for brain metastases (BM).
Methods
This international, retrospective, multicenter study, included 195 female patients with 1706 SRS-treated BM. Radiologic and clinical outcomes after SRS were determined and prognostic factors identified.
Results
At SRS, median patient age was 55 years [interquartile range (IQR) 47.6–62.0], and 156 (80%) patients had KPS ≥ 80. The median tumor volume was 0.1 cm3 (IQR 0.1–0.5) and the median prescription dose was 16 Gy (IQR 16–18). Local tumor control (LTC) rate was 98%, 94%, 93%, 90%, and 88% at six-, 12-, 24-, 36- and 60-months post-SRS, respectively. On multivariate analysis, tumor volume (p = < 0.001) and concurrent pertuzumab (p = 0.02) improved LTC. Overall survival (OS) rates at six-, 12-, 24-, 36-, 48-, and 60-months were 90%, 69%, 46%, 27%, 22%, and 18%, respectively. Concurrent pertuzumab improved OS (p = 0.032). In this patient subgroup, GPA scores ≥ 2.5 (p = 0.038 and p = 0.003) and rare primary tumor histologies (p = 0.01) were associated with increased and decreased OS respectively. Asymptomatic adverse radiation events (ARE) occurred in 27 (14.0%) and symptomatic ARE in five (2.6%) patients. Invasive lobular carcinoma primary (p = 0.042) and concurrent pertuzumab (p < 0.001) conferred an increased risk for overall but not for symptomatic ARE.
Conclusion
SRS affords effective LTC for selected patients with BM from HER-2 positive breast cancer. Concurrent pertuzumab improved LTC and OS with however an increased risk for overall but not symptomatic ARE.
Safety and Efficacy of Exposed Endoscopic Full-thickness Resection for Colorectal Submucosal Tumors Originating from Muscularis Propria
Authors: Yalikong Ayimukedisi , Qi Zhi-peng , Ablat Kadinur , He Dongli , Lv Zhen-tao , Shi Qiang , Zhong Yun-shi
Published: June 2024

Objectives
Endoscopic resection of the submucosal tumors (SMTs) is a promising minimally invasive alternative surgery for the treatment of SMTs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of exposed EFTR in the treatment of colorectal SMTs through retrospective data analysis.
Methods
The patients who underwent exposed endoscopic full-thickness resection (EFTR) for colorectal SMTs in Zhongshan Hospital of Fudan University and Zhongshan-Xuhui Hospital between March 2012 and December 2022 were enrolled. The information of patients, such as basic information, medical history, preoperative and postoperative conditions, surgical conditions, postoperative complications, etc. were collected for analysis.
Results
The study enrolled 26 patients. Most of the patients were asymptomatic (76.92%) and found the colorectal SMT through physical examination. The size of the tumor was13.5(8.5,20.0) mm. And, the tumor located mostly in the rectum. During the resection, the technical success rate was 100%. The median procedural time was 46.5(29.25,63.25) min. Of the 26 cases of colorectal SMTs, 13 (50%) were determined to be GIST. As for the adverse events, 3 of the 26 patients were suffered from post-polypectomy syndrome (11.54%), one patient was suffered from postoperative bleeding (3.85%), of whom performed emergency endoscopic hemostasis; One patient (3.85) suffered from postoperative perforation and transferred to perform exploratory laparotomy to repair the defect. All patients improved after treatment, and no patient died because of the adverse events. During the follow-up time 43.5(22.5,48) months, no metastasis or recurrence was observed.
Conclusions
Exposed EFTR for colorectal SMTs originating from muscularis propria is effective with an acceptable incidence rate of adverse events and good postoperative recovery.
PCGF1 promotes the tumorigenesis of malignancies through upregulating CCDC34 in glioma
Authors: Chen Yuanbing , Xiong Jianbing , Ou Ziran , Zhao Tianhao , Li Hui , Huang Jun , Cao Wuyang
Published: June 2024

Introduction
Polycomb group factor 1 (PCGF1) and coiled-coil domain-containing protein 34 (CCDC34) are detected as tumorigenesis of malignancies. However, the function and the prognostic value of PCGF1 and CCDC34 in glioma still remain unclear. Methods Analyzed the data of RNA-seq with the knockdown of PCGF1 in glioma cell lines from GEO database. Explored the correlation of gene expression between PCGF1 and CCDC34 in TCGA, CGGA, and GEO databases. Moreover, RT-qPCR was used to measure the expression of PCGF1 and CCDC34 in glioma specimens. Additionally, Kaplan-Meier analyses were conducted to explore the prognostic value of CCDC34 in glioma. Further, CCDC34 knockdown and PCGF1 overexpressed cell lines were constructed to investigate the effect of CCDC34 and PCGF1 on glioma. The cell growth and colony formation were performed.
Results
The CCDC34 was significantly downregulated in glioma cell lines with the knockdown of PCGF1 compared to the control group. The expression level of CCDC34 were positive correlation with the grade of WHO in glioma. The outcome of the patients were strongly associated with the expression of CCDC34. The knockdown of CCDC34 was shown to inhibit cell proliferation and colony formation. And a rescue experiment revealed PCGF1 promotes the proliferation of glioma dependent on CCDC34. The analysis of GSEA suggests that the expression of PCGF and CCDC34 were positively correlated with the hypoxia, coagulation, and EMT signaling pathway.
Conclusion
Our data demonstrated that PCGF1 promotes the proliferation of glioma dependent on CCDC34, which indicated that CCDC34 could be used as a novel potential prognostic marker.
Correlation between three pro-nuclei (3PN) incidence and further embryo multinucleation at the two-cell stage (MN2) during IVF: A time-lapse study
Authors: Li Mingzhao , Xue Xia , Shi Juanzi
Published: June 2024

The incidence of ≥ 3PN zygotes and blastomere multinucleation was found to be elevated in the presence of increased E2 levels and a greater number of retrieved oocytes. This implies a potential link between the incidence of MN2 and a higher proportion of ≥ 3PN zygotes. We aimed to investigate the effect of high proportion of 3PN zygotes on MN2 incidence during IVF by using time-lapse monitoring (TLM). This study included 1195 patients with TLM from January 2020 to December 2022. The TLM patients were categorized into three groups: Group 1 comprised patients with no ≥ 3PN zygotes (n = 422), Group 2 included those with 0–25% ≥3PN zygotes (n = 617), and Group 3 consisted of patients with more than 25% ≥3PN zygotes (n = 156).The MN2 rate, types of MN2 and clinical outcomes were compared among the three groups. Our data indicated that the live birth rate was significantly higher in the group 2 than that in the group 3 (65.32 versus 56.41%; p = 0.039). The group 1 and 2 showed significantly lower MN2 rates than group 3 (18.33 and 19.45% versus 25.62%; p < 0.001). The MN2 embryos exhibited similar rates of high-quality embryos (42.27 versus 43.50 versus 40.67%; p = 0.401) and available embryos (84.96 versus 84.04 versus 83.21%; p = 0.460) rates among three groups. There were no significant differences in the proportion of MN2 with different types among the three groups (p > 0.05). There were no significant differences in the blastocyst formation rates for embryos with different type of MN2 among the three groups (p > 0.05). A high frequency of ≥ 3PN zygotes incidence might lead to a decrease in the rate of live births, and the occurrence of MN2 events could be predicted based on the ≥ 3PN zygotes incidence.
Validation of neuron activation patterns for deep learning models in oculomics
Authors: An Songyang , Squirrell David
Published: June 2024

Deep learning and artificial neural networks have been extensively applied to the automated diagnosis of retinal diseases from fundus images. Recent advancements have also led researchers to leverage deep learning to examine the connections between the retina and systemic health in a discipline termed oculomics. However, as oculomics models likely combine multiple retinal features to arrive at their conclusions, traditional methods in model interpretation, such as attribution saliency maps, often provide uncompelling and open-ended explanations that are prone to interpretation bias, highlighting a need for the examination of alternative strategies that can quantitatively describe model behavior. One potential solution is neuron activation patterns, which were previously applied to real-time fault diagnosis of deep learning models. In this study, we proposed a novel and experimental framework of neuron activation pattern synthesis leveraging image similarity metrics, with the outcome being a continuous, metric-based descriptor of underlying model behavior. We applied our approach in examining a model predicting systolic blood pressure from fundus images trained on the United Kingdom Biobank dataset. Our results show that the metric-based descriptor was meaningfully related to cardiovascular risk, a real-life outcome that can be expected to be related to blood pressure-related biomarkers identified from a fundus image. Furthermore, it was also able to uncover two biologically distinct and statistically significant groups among participants who were assigned the same predicted outcome and whose distinctness would otherwise be imperceivable without the insights generated by our approach. These results demonstrate the feasibility of this prototypical approach in neuron activation pattern synthesis for oculomics models. Further work is now required to validate these results on external datasets.
Is Coagulation-related indicators associated with COVID19-related mortality? A evidence obtained from 663 Chinese patients with COVID-19 infection in a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Fu Wei , Chen Chi , Chen Xin-Lin , Wu Xia-Li , Wang Kun , Zuo Peiyuan , Liu Yuwei , Zhang Meng , Zhao Xiaofang , Xie Songpu , Zhang Hao , Liu Chengyun
Published: June 2024

Background
Several studies have found that coagulation-related markers are correlated with a poor prognosis in patients were diagnosed COVID-19 infection. However, the findings of these studies are constrained by methodology and data analysis. Furthermore, there would be little evidence to report trends in coagulation-related indicators over time all through the disease's progression.
Methods
From January 7, 2020 to February 28, 2020, we collected 663 participants in a Chinese hospital in a non-selective and consecutive manner. The association between baseline coagulation-related indicators and death was investigated using a standardized and two-piecewise Cox regression model. The GAMM (generalized additive mixed model) was used to examine the time-varying trend of indicators in non-survivors and survivors.
Results
Of the six coagulation-related indicators, basal-Log2D-dimer (D-D) was independently positively correlated with the risk of death .The area under the ROC (receiver operating characteristic curve) curve is 0.7937 and the optimum cut-off value is 0.4650mg/L. In the GAMM model, we found that thrombin time (TT ) (interaction coefficient 0.0071; 95%CI 0.0034to 0.0108) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) (interaction coefficient 0.0217; 95%CI 0.0160 to 0.0273) of non-survivors have been increasing progressively over time during the entire disease course compared with no fluctuations among survivors. An inverse U-shaped time-vary trend was observed in D-D, prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR) among non-survivors, while a steady trend was found among survivors.
Conclusion
Baseline D-D were independently positively correlated with the risk of death and have the potential to be used for risk assessment early on.
Genomic variation in Plasmodium relictum (lineage SGS1) and its implications for avian malaria infection outcomes: insights from experimental infections and genome-wide analysis
Authors: Kalbskopf Victor , Aželytė Juste , Palinauskas Vaidas , Olof Hellgren
Published: June 2024

Background
The globally transmitted avian malaria parasite Plasmodium relictum (lineage SGS1) has been found to infect hundreds of different bird species with differences in infection outcomes ranging from more or less latent to potential mortal. However, to date basic knowledge about the links between genetic differentiation and variation in infection outcome within this single Malaria species is lacking.
Method
In this study, we used two different isolates of SGS1, obtained in the wild from two different host species, to investigate differences their development in the blood and virulence to the experimentally infected canaries. Simultaneously, 258kb of the parasite genome was screened for genetic differences using parasite mRNA and compared between experimental groups.
Result
The two isolates showed differences in development and caused mortality as well as in effects on the blood parameters of their hosts. Although previous studies using single genes have shown very limited within lineage genetic diversity in the European population of SGS1, we found, across 322 genes, 226 SNPs, which separated the two experimental groups with a total of 23 SNPs that were fixed in either of the experimental groups. Moreover, genetic variation was found within each experimental group, hinting that each avian malaria infection harbors standing genetic variation that might be selected during each individual infection episode.
Conclusion
These results highlight extensive genetic variation within the SGS1 population that is transferred into individual infections, thus adding to the complexity of the infection dynamics seen in these host-parasite interactions. Simultaneously, the results open up the possibility of understanding how genetic variation within the parasite populations is linked to the commonly observed differences in infection outcomes, both in experimental settings and in the wild.
The association between multimorbidity patterns and physical frailty among middle-aged and older community-dwelling adults: The mediating role of depressive symptoms
Authors: Geng Yuhan , Zhou Ming , Liu Yangxiaoxue , Zhao Tianshu , Zhang Jiali , Xin Min , Wang Wenxin , Zhang Gongzi , Huang Liping
Published: June 2024

Background: This study aimed to investigate the association between multimorbidity and frailty, and the potential mediating role of depressive symptoms in Chinese middle-aged and older community-dwelling adults.
Methods: We selected a total of 5232 adults with two or more chronic diseases from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) database. Clusters of participants with similar multimorbidity patterns were identified through fuzzy c-means cluster analyses. The cross-sectional association between multimorbidity and frailty was measured through logistic regression analyses. Mediation analysis was applied to examine direct and indirect associations within the counterfactual framework.
Results: At baseline, we identified five multimorbidity patterns. Two of these patterns significantly increased the risk of frailty compared to a non-specific pattern. Depression mediated 35.20% of the effect of multimorbidity on frailty (p = 0.042). Notably, in adults aged 60 years and older, this mediation accounted for 69.84% of the total effect, surpassing the direct impact of multimorbidity on frailty. Among individuals with economic support (0.020, 95% CI: 0.002-0.040), high school education (0.062, 95% CI: 0.007-0.120), and no alcohol consumption (0.024, 95% CI: 0.003-0.050), depression entirely mediated the impact of comorbidities.
Conclusions: This study reveals strong links between specific multimorbidity patterns and physical frailty, with depression significantly mediating these effects, particularly in certain populations. Findings emphasize tailored mental health interventions' necessity in specific groups.
Trial registration：The data was extracted from China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS). The ethical approval number of CHARLS is IRB00001052-11015.
Trajectory planning and tracking of interceptor based on rolling optimization
Authors: Li Liya , Zhang Xulong , Qi Guoyuan , Wang Shishen , Shi Peng
Published: June 2024

In the interception of near-space targets, the initial propulsion stage of the interceptor missile plays a crucial role in interception performance. In view of the sequential quadratic programming (SQP) optimization algorithm, an initial and midcourse guidance trajectory planning is proposed. For high maneuvering targets, rolling optimization is adopted in the optimization process, and the intercept trajectory is updated in real time through multi-stage optimization. Terminal guidance planning is included in the planning process to create good conditions for intermediate and terminal shift handover. In order to track the planned trajectory, the model compensation control (MCC) based on compensation function observer (CFO) is utilized. Finally, the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed algorithm are verified by simulation, and the interceptable range of a single interceptor is calculated based on this method.
The influence of learning motivation on college students' participation in professional courses:The mediating role of self-control and the moderating role of school atmosphere
Authors: Kang Tinghu , Cao Luyuan
Published: June 2024

Background
Students who actively participate in school activities will perform better in school. In contrast, students who do not attend classes on time, refuse to participate in school activities, and are distracted during class may not perform as well as those who actively participate in school activities, and may also exhibit various problematic behaviors such as dropping out. However, it is worrisome that many educators consider skipping classes as one of the most significant and persistent issues affecting student development.
Method
This article uses the Learning Motivation Scale and a college student participation survey questionnaire to study the relationship between college student learning motivation and professional classroom participation. Use SPSS correlation analysis and M-plus to conduct multi-layer linear model analysis on the data and draw specific conclusions.
Results
(1) Students' learning motivation positively predicts students' participation in professional courses. (2) Students' self-control positively predicts students' participation in professional courses. (3) Students' perceived school atmosphere has an overall moderating effect. When students' perceived school atmosphere is positive, learning motivation can predict high level of self-control, while when students' perceived school atmosphere is negative, learning motivation has no predictive effect on self-control.
Conclusions
The data results indicate that the double-layer model is more effective in promoting research on participation mechanisms than the single-layer model, and has good practical and educational value.
Using multi-orbit cyclic subspace codes for constructing optical orthogonal codes
Authors: Ozbudak Ferruh , Santonastaso Paolo , Zullo Ferdinando
Published: June 2024

We present a new application of multi-orbit cyclic subspace codes to construct large optical orthogonal codes, with the aid of the multiplicative structure of finite fields extensions. This approach is different from earlier approaches using combinatorial and additive (character sum) structures of finite fields. Consequently, we immediately obtain new classes of optical orthogonal codes with different parameters.
MSC2020: 94B60; 11T30; 11T71
Rearing conditions impacted efficacy of α-lipoic acid to influence longevity in Drosophila melanogaster fed with a high fat diet
Authors: CHATTOPADHYAY DEBARATI , Philip Susan Mary , Prabhakar Grace , Bheemaiah Madappa Machamada
Published: June 2024

Consumption of a high fat diet is accompanied with the risk of obesity and early onset of age-associated complications. Hence, dietary interventions are imperative to combat this. α-lipoic acid has been shown to hinder diet-induced obesity in model organisms. Recent studies hint at probable lifespan extending efficacy of α-lipoic acid as well.Drosophila melanogasterhas emerged as a robust model organism for longevity studies. In this study, α-lipoic acid was investigated for its efficacy to improve lifespan and age-associated physiology inCanton-Sstrain ofDrosophila melanogasterfed with a high fat diet. Furthermore, as mating status has a significant impact on survival in fruit-flies, flies were reared in two experimental groups – group one in which males and females were reared together and group two in which males and females were reared separately. In group one, α-lipoic acid improved mean lifespan, reduced fecundity of females and reduced mean body weight of flies at dose range of 2mM – 2.5mM, respectively. In group two, α-lipoic acid improved mean lifespan, reduced fecundity of females and reduced mean body weight of flies at dose range of 1mM – 2.5mM, respectively. Improved climbing efficiency was observed with α-lipoic acid at dose range of 1.5mM – 2.5mM in flies of group one and 1mM – 2.5mM in flies of group two, respectively. Administration of α-lipoic acid improved resistance to oxidative stress in only female flies of group one at 2.5mM whereas in group two, both male and female flies exhibited improved resistance to oxidative stress with α-lipoic acid at dose range of 2mM – 2.5mM, respectively. Male and female flies of only group one showed improved resistance to heat shock stress with α-lipoic acid at dose range of 2mM – 2.5mM. Only female flies of group two exhibited a small significant improvement in recovery time following cold shock with α-lipoic acid only at 2.5mM. No significant change in resistance to starvation stress was observed with any dose of α-lipoic acid in either group of flies. To summarize, data from this study suggested a probable dose and gender dependent efficacy of α-lipoic acid in flies fed with a high fat diet; this efficacy was also significantly impacted by mating status of flies due to varied rearing conditions.
Modeling Brain Chaos Using Electrical Circuit Approaches: Unraveling Neural Dynamics
Authors: SELMI Kaouther , BACHTA Kods , BOUALLEGUE Kais
Published: June 2024

This paper explores the simulation of brain chaos dynamics through a combined use of the Chua circuit and diode tunnel mechanisms, aiming to examine chaotic behavior in brain networks. By leveraging the inherent chaotic properties of the Chua circuit, the FitzHugh-Nagumo function, and the nonlinear characteristics of diode tunneling, our model replicates the intricate synaptic interactions observed in the brain. We subject the model to various stimuli and perturbations to analyze the emergence and evolution of chaotic patterns, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of cerebral chaos. Numerical simulations and experimental validation demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach in replicating key features of brain chaos, with potential implications for understanding neurological disorders and cognitive processes. This research contributes to the broader effort to use computational models to explore the complex dynamics of the brain and their implications for neuroscience.
Systematic dissection of pleiotropic loci and critical regulons in exhibitory neurons and microglia relevant to neuropsychiatric and ocular diseases
Authors: Jiang Dingping , Ma Yunlong , Su Jianzhong , Li Jingjing , Zheng Gongwei , Deng Yao , Gou Xuanxuan , Gao Shuaishuai , Chen Cheng , Deng Chunyu , Zhou Yijun , Zhang Yaru , Han Haijun , Yao Yinghao
Published: June 2024

Background: Single-cell multimodal techniques have advanced the functional elucidation of disease-relevant loci identified in genome-wide association studies (GWASs). However, the functional interpretation of these variants remains challenging. It is still unclear how these variants modulate core gene-regulatory networks in specific cell types to influence eye-and brain-related diseases.
Methods: We developed a computational framework to integrate bulk and single-cell multiomic (scRNA-seq and scATAC-seq) profiles with GWAS summary statistics for identifying critical transcription factor (TF)-regulatory regulons through which genetic variants influence eight neuropsychiatric and five ocular diseases. Various genetic methods were utilized to uncover pleiotropic loci, risk genes, and key pathways for the diseases.
Results: Our analysis revealed five latent factors explaining 61.7% of genetic variances across the 13 eye and brain diseases, showing diverse correlational patterns among these conditions. We identified 45 pleiotropic loci with 91 candidate genes contributing to disease risk. Integration of the GWAS and single-cell sequencing data implicated excitatory neurons and microglia in eye-brain connections. Network-based polygenic enrichment analysis identified 15 disease-relevant pleiotropic regulons in exhibitory neurons, including BCL11A, STAT4, and GLS1, and 16 disease-relevant pleiotropic regulons in microglia, such as SPI1, FOXP2, and MEF2C. Exhibitory neuron-specific regulons were functionally involved in axon guidance and synaptic activity, while microglia-specific regulons related to immune response and cell activation.
Conclusions: Our study reinforces the genetic link between psychiatric and ocular diseases and provides biological insights into the potential regulatory mechanisms and implications for future therapeutic development.
Optically generated droplet beams for improved optoacoustic imaging of choroid thickness in the ocular cavity: A biomarker for Alzheimer’s Disease.
Authors: Mavrakis Kostas G , Zacharakis Giannis
Published: June 2024

Optoacoustic microscopy faces a restricted depth of field attributed to the tightly focused Gaussian beam excitation. This limitation poses challenges in capturing high-resolution images of samples with uneven surfaces or obtaining high-quality volumetric images without z-scanning. To address this issue, we propose the use of droplet illumination in optoacoustic microscopy, which extends the depth of field to approximately 80 times the Rayleigh length. The droplet beam is generated using a Mach-Zehnder-type interferometer, with each arm equipped with a lens of different optical power. We demonstrate the advantages of droplet beam illumination in microscopy by showing high contrast images on fluorescent beads with a 50% improvement compared to Bessel beam illumination and subsequently imaging the posterior cavity of mice eyes. This method introduces novel perspectives to medical sciences, allowing the measurement of the choroidal layer thickness, an early indicative biomarker for Alzheimer's disease.
Gender diversity and financial performance in executive positions in German companies
Authors: Roessle Felix , Fleischmann Carolin , Roessle Kathrin
Published: June 2024

An underrepresentation of women in executive positions has persisted for decades. This paper aims to analyze the financial impact of women in executive positions in German companies by examining the economic value added and exploring the effects of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors and female supervisory board members on female board members. The results indicate that in the 200 largest German companies, the share of female executives increased between 2018 and 2022. Regardless of industry, female executives started at very low levels at around 4% in 2018; in 2022, this figure reached around 11%. Thereby, the financial sector showed the highest share of female executives at around 14% in 2022, and the industrial sector at around 9%. A closer look reveals that large companies have higher shares of female executives than smaller companies. Large companies show an average of 17% compared to small ones, and in 2022, only 8%. There is a positive correlation between the share of female supervisory board members and female executives, arguing that female supervisory board members seem to hire more female executives. Companies with more female executives tend to have lower ESG controversy scores, and companies with more female executives, measured by the economic value added, perform better financially than companies with few or no women. Companies with female executives show about 2 percentage points higher economic value added than those with the lowest share of females (no or few female executives). Thus, it seems that female executives matter and make a difference in companies.
Direito humano ao território tradicional dos Guarani Kaiowá em Antônio João/MS – Brasil
Authors: Marques Filho Elvis Gomes , Urquiza Antônio Hilário Aguilera
Published: June 2024

O presente artigo tem o objetivo geral de analisar a garantia dos direitos humanos e fundamentais dos povos indígenas Guarani Kaiowá nos processos de demarcação dos seus territórios na região de fronteira entre Brasil e Paraguai no Mato Grosso do Sul. Para tanto, recorre-se à pesquisa bibliográfica, documental e de campo intermitente, com a utilização do método hipotético-dedutivo. Por meio da abordagem qualitativa e da pesquisa descritiva-exploratória, este estudo atingiu os resultados esperados. A pesquisa tem como objeto principal de estudo os povos indígenas Guarani Kaiowá, do tekoha Ñande Ru Marangatu, em Antônio João, localizada no Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, na região transfronteiriça Brasil-Paraguai. A conclusão desta pesquisa mostra que os Estados brasileiro e paraguaio, ao adotar uma postura pluralista, de diálogo constante com os Guarani Kaiowá, devem garantir e proteger os seus direitos humanos e fundamentais ao território e à cultura.
Aplicabilidade das medidas protetivas de urgência da Lei Maria da Penha em favor de homens transgêneros e pessoas em transição de gênero
Authors: Teixeira Zaneir Gonçalves , De Ávila Tadeu Trindade
Published: June 2024

O presente artigo visa a demonstrar a plena aplicabilidade das medidas protetivas de urgência da Lei Maria da Penha em favor de homens transgêneros e pessoas em transição de gênero. Para tal desiderato, serão utilizados dados provenientes de consultas a pesquisas estatísticas e avaliação jurisprudencial, bem como análise de bibliografia especializada. Diante do quadro de ampla vulnerabilidade das pessoas transgêneras e da constatação de que são frequentemente vítimas de violência nos âmbitos doméstico e familiar, cabe analisar as relações de poder historicamente determinadas entre gêneros e perquirir, a partir da conceituação de identificação de gênero e do comparativo da LGBTfobia estrutural com outros sistemas de dominação, como o machismo e o racismo, a possibilidade de utilização das medidas protetivas de urgência em benefício de homens transgêneros e pessoas em transição. A partir dos parâmetros e métodos explanados, defende-se a possibilidade de aplicação das medidas protetivas de urgência em favor de homens transgêneros e pessoas em transição, vez que não deve ser analisada tão somente a identificação de gênero autorreconhecida pelo indivíduo, mas também a forma como são lidos pela sociedade e, principalmente, pela família, sabedora da origem biológica e do percurso transacional, em verdadeira reprodução de sistema hierarquizante de dominação e poder consubstanciado na LGBTfobia estrutural. A interpretação teleológica da norma que estabelece as medidas protetivas de urgência permite sua aplicação em favor de homens transgêneros e pessoas em transição de gênero como forma de quebra do quadro de opressão, permitindo certo realinhamento de poderes também a pessoas associadas, por desrespeito à identidade de gênero autorreconhecida, ao grupo subalternizado (gênero feminino).
Flipbook trends and their influence on the development of guidance and counseling teaching media in higher education: Bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ariffudin Imam , Latifah Leny
Published: June 2024

Purpose – The purpose of this research is to map relevant topics that support the renewal of research topics on the development of flipbook-based media.Method – A bibliometric study using Zupic and Carter models was chosen as the basis for conducting the research. The research data were 1387 articles indexed by Scopus and Google Scholar which were filtered using the Publis or Perish. The compiled article data was then analyzed using VOSviewer to identify visualizations.Result - The results show that e-module is the most widely used teaching material for flipbooks, while interactive flipbooks and e-worksheets are alternative topics in the development of flipbook media.Implication – This study suggests that educators in tertiary institutions or future researchers are more innovative and varied in developing learning resources and learning media.Originality – this research is the first study that tries to discuss the novelty of the flipbook research topic.***Tujuan – Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk memetakan topik-topik yang relevan yang mendukung pembaharuan topik penelitian tentang pengembangan media berbasis flipbook.Metode - Studi bibliometrik dengan menggunakan model Zupic dan Carter dipilih sebagai dasar pelaksanaan penelitian. Data penelitian berupa 1387 artikel yang terindeks Scopus dan Google Scholar yang disaring menggunakan perangkat lunak Publis or Perish. Data artikel yang terkumpul kemudian dianalisis menggunakan VOSviewer untuk mengidentifikasi visualisasi.Hasil - Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa e-modul merupakan bahan ajar yang paling banyak digunakan untuk flipbook, sedangkan flipbook interaktif dan e-worksheet menjadi topik alternatif dalam pengembangan media flipbook.Implikasi - Penelitian ini menyarankan agar para pendidik di perguruan tinggi atau peneliti selanjutnya lebih inovatif dan variatif dalam mengembangkan sumber belajar dan media pembelajaran.Orisinalitas - Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian pertama yang mencoba membahas kebaruan topik penelitian flipbook.
Vólvulo de íleon distal: una causa infrecuente de dolor abdominal en adultos mayores: reporte de caso clínico
Authors: Sosa-Sarmiento Paola Vanessa , González-Hadad Adolfo , Ocampo-Chaparro Jose , Reyes-Ortiz Carlos , Gil-Yande Sara
Published: June 2024

El dolor abdominal en los adultos mayores (AM) es un desafío por los cambios fisiológicos del envejecimiento, manifestaciones clínicas atípicas y multimorbilidad. El objetivo es presentar un paciente AM con dolor abdominal   de una etiología poco común de dolor abdominal y de obstrucción intestinal, como lo es el vólvulo intestinal. Se presenta un paciente de 82 años con múltiples condiciones geriátricas, quien ingresó por dolor abdominal subagudo, y clínica sugestiva de obstrucción intestinal. La tomografía axial computarizada (TAC) de abdomen muestra el signo del remolino compatible, con diagnóstico de vólvulo de íleon distal.
Developing a Compassion Focused Supervision Model for Senior Leaders in Education
Authors: Heriot-Maitland Charles , Taylor Jo
Published: June 2024

This article describes the development and delivery of a novel model of supervision for senior teachers in schools, informed by Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT). It explores whether this model can be considered acceptable and valuable to senior teachers, and is able to be delivered by multiple supervisors using a manual. Surveys, interviews, and focus groups were used to gather feedback about the value and impact of the supervision. Data were gathered from 39 senior teachers across three phases to assess feedback over time, as new supervisors were trained to deliver supervision with the aid of a manual. The supervision model, called Compassion Focused Coaching (CFC) in Education, was found to be an acceptable and valuable model for senior teachers in schools, with benefits for compassion to self, students, and colleagues. The CFC Manual was found to be a useful guide for new supervisors, with no previous experience of CFT, to start delivering CFC sessions. Limitations of this study include the fact that there was no tool for assessing supervisor competence and adherence to the CFC supervision model, which is an area for future development. No standardised measures were used, and the results should therefore be considered in terms of feasibility, rather than evaluation. In conclusion, CFC is an acceptable and scalable model of supervision for senior leaders in schools. There are indications of this model having value and impact in a number of areas of school life, from staff wellbeing, to dealing with challenging situations and relationships. Formal evaluation of CFC is required in future research to understand the effectiveness of this model, compared to other models of supervision and peer support.
Influence of age, body mass index and gender on sonographic indicators of the liver in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Yagmur V.B. , Demeshkina L.V. , Melanich S.L. , Kyslova R.M.
Published: June 2024

Background. The incidence of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is increasing along with the increasing prevalence of obesity. There are close relationships between these two pathologies due to the functioning of adipose tissue as an endocrine organ with a complex influence on various metabolic processes. It is known that premenopausal women are less prone to fatty liver disease than men. The aim was to study the influence of gender, body mass index (BMI) and age on sonographic indicators and the degree of liver steatosis in patients with metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease. Materials and methods. Ninety-two patients with MASLD were included in the study, 48 women and 44 men. Inclusion criterion was metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, exclusion criteria were any non-metabolic factors of chronic diffuse liver disease. Patients were divided into groups by gender and age. Women were divided by age according to the presence and absence of menopause, men were divided into groups below and above 45 years — the conventional age of the beginning of the decline in gonadotropic function. The analysis of structural changes of the liver, namely the assessment of the size, contours, structure, echogenicity, and visualization of blood vessels in the B-mode was carried out with the help of ultrasound examination on Toshiba Xario 660 (Japan). The degree of steatosis was assessed by the controlled attenuation parameter. Results. In men, the right, left and caudate liver lobes were significantly larger (p < 0.05) than in women, which is due to the higher weight of men in the absence of a difference in the BMI. There was no significant difference between men and women in degree of steatosis (p > 0.05). A moderate positive correlation (r = 0.63) was found between BMI and the controlled attenuation parameter; in women, there was no connection between these indicators. Analysis of correlations in women of different ages, divided by the presence of menopause, found that before menopause, there was no dependence of steatosis indicators on BMI, while with the onset of menopause, the coefficient of correlation between these indicators was 0.39 (р < 0.02). Conclusions. No significant difference was found between the frequency of various degrees of steatosis in MASLD according to the controlled attenuation parameter in men and women. There was a dependence of the severity of liver steatosis on the BMI in men, the dependence of steatosis on the body mass index in women was manifested starting from the menopause period, which suggests the protective role of female sex hormones.
Potential biomarkers of IFN-γ, IL-2 and CXCL9 for diagnosis of Q fever disease
Authors: Purba Hastuti Handayani S , Yasmon Andi
Published: June 2024

The pathogen responsible for Q fever disease, Coxiella burnetii, is a zoonosis classified as a pathogen due to its airborne transmission. The C. burnetii infection could be both acute or chronic in humans. The main and most common entry of the pathogens to the body is through the breathing of polluted aerosols containing a resistant substance similar to C. burnetii spores. This small cell variant (SCV) or spore-like morphotype is extremely stress-resistant, therefore inadequate treatment causes serious effects even death. Due to the diversity of clinical manifestations of Q fever and the presence of less specific and sensitive diagnoses for other diseases, multiple platforms for exploring Q fever biomarkers are required. Apart from serological studies to determine a biomarker for Q fever, it will be prudent to concentrate on the more appropriate cell-mediated immune response. This article discusses C. burnetii causing Q fever disease and how the host develops humoral and cellular immunity, particularly IFN-γ, IL-2 and CXCL9, as potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of Q fever disease.
Serpentine supravenous hyperpigmentation (SSH) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma patient on docetaxel and carboplatin chemotherapy: a case report
Authors: Sutiawan Indry Salonika , Puspawati Ni Made Dwi , Martalova AJ Adelia , Setyono Alfred , Devi Putu Akopita , Setyawati Ni Kadek
Published: June 2024

Serpentine supravenous hyperpigmentation (SSH) is a rare but unique side effect of intravenous anticancer. It manifests as linear hyperpigmentation eruption on the skin that radiates along the superficial vein accompanied by mild pain and/or itch. This SSH does not cause systemic alterations, however, most patients complained about its cosmetic effects. The diagnosis of SSH can be made clinically, although histopathological examinations can aid in excluding differential diagnoses. We reported a case of SSH found in a nasopharyngeal cancer patient during docetaxel and carboplatin chemotherapy. It is a potentially alarming interface dermatitis that is not lot reported in the literature. It was reported, the patient tolerated the second and third cycles well with less severe side effects when premedicated with 250 mL NaCl 0.9% bolus intravenously before and after chemotherapy sessions, 10 mg cetirizine every 24 hr orally, and desoximetasone cream 0.25% every 12 hr topically added.