bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Database-aided UHPLC-Q-orbitrap MS/MS Strategy Putatively Identifies 52 Compounds from Wushicha Granule to Propose Anti-counterfeiting Quality-markers for Pharmacopoeia
Authors: Li Xican , Chen Shaoman , Zeng Jingyuan , Cai Rongxin , Liang Yilan , Chen Chuanbin , Chen Ban , Li Chunhou
Published: July 2023

Wushicha Granule, an over-the-counter-drug (OTC) prescription, consists of 19 traditional Chinese herbals medicines (CHMs), such as Chaihu, Hongcha, Chuanxiong, Houpo, and Gancao. The five however have not been effectively characterized by the quality-markers (Q-markers) system in current Pharmacopoeia. The study therefore established a novel database-aided ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-Q-orbitrap MS/MS) strategy. The strategy has putatively identified 52 compounds from Wushicha Granule, mainly including flavonoids, saponins, alkaloid, lignins, and lactones. Especially, saponin “glycyrrhetinic acid” in the Granule was specifically identified as 18β-configuration (rather than 18α-configuration). Meanwhile, two pairs of isomers were fully discriminated, including vitexin vs isovitexin and daidzein vs 7,4'-dihydroxyflavone. 8β-Glycyrrhetinic acid, together with saponin saikosaponin A, alkaloid caffeine, lactone S-senkyunolide A, and lignin magnolol, were further studied using quantum chemical calculation, UV-vis spectra, and anti-counterfeiting validation experiment. In the validation experiment, they have successfully recognized 6 counterfeit Wushicha Granules, by means of a LC-MS equipped extraction software. Based on these results, 8β-glycyrrhetinic acid is recommended to replace the old Q-marker “glycyrrhetinic acid”; while saikosaponin A, caffeine, S-senkyunolide A, and magnolol are recommended as new Q-markers. These recommendations can not only recognize the counterfeits regarding Chaihu, Hongcha, Chuanxiong, Houpo, and Gancao, but also prevent the possible safety-incident. All these will greatly improve the efficiency and specificity of current Pharmacopoeia.
Bioinformatics analyses of potentially common pathogenic networks for primary Sjogren’s syndrome complicated with acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Hou Qingbin , Jiang JINping , Na kun , Zhang Xiaolin , Liu Dan , Jing Quanmin , Yan Chenghui , Han Yaling
Published: July 2023

Both primary Sjogren’s syndrome (pSS) and acute myocardial infarction (AMI) are intricately linked to one another. However, their common mechanism is not fully understood. Herein, we examined the underlying network of molecular action associated with the development of this complication.datasets were downloaded from the GEO database, We performed enrichment and protein–protein interaction analyses and screened key genes. To confirm the diagnostic performance for these hub genes, we used external datasets. Transcription factor and microRNA regulatory networks were constructed for the validated hub genes. Finally, drug prediction and molecular docking validation were performed.We identified 51 commonDEGs, many of which were enriched in terms of Inflammation and immune response. five DEGs were found as key hub genes ( IGSF6、MMP9、S100A8, MNDA, and NCF2). They had high diagnostic performance in external datasets. Functional enrichment of these five hub genes showed that they were associated with the adaptive immune response.The Type 1 T helper cell showed the most association among all cell types related to AMI and pSS. we identified 27 common TFs and 20 identical TF-miRNAs. The drugs including Benzo、dexamethasone and NADP were predicted as potential therapeutic agents. Herein, we revealed common networks involving pSS and AMI etiologies. Knowledge of these networks and hub genes can enhance research into their associated mechanism and development of future robust therapy.
Perceptions of Experienced Primary Care Physicians on Telemedicine: Treatment Convenience affects more than Treatment Quality - A Questionnaire-based Study
Authors: Cohen Avivit Golan , Tal Yossi , Hersh Daniel , Vinker Shlomo , Merzon Eugene , Green Ilan , Israel Ariel , Tuval Atalia
Published: July 2023

Background: Telemedicine can potentially enhance healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. Previous studies have highlighted the crucial relationship between physicians’ attitudes and the extent of telemedicine implementation. However, despite significant efforts, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, the implementation of telemedicine in primary care systems has not met expectations.
Objective: This study aimed to investigate how primary care physicians’ attitudes toward telemedicine are influenced by the perceived opportunities and risks associated with its use after gaining firsthand experience with the service.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using validated online self-reported questionnaires, distributed to all primary care physicians providing telemedicine consultations for at least three months in a large health maintenance organization (HMO) in Israel. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize the study variables. Spearman’s correlation coefficient was used to assess associations between continuous variables. Independent sample t-tests were used to compare continuous variables across different categories. All statistical analyses were two-sided; a p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: 128 (20%) physicians completed the questionnaire. The perceived strength of the identified opportunities outweighed that of the risks. Furthermore, the importance assigned to issues related to enhancing patient service was greater than that given to aspects associated with improving treatment.
Conclusion: Primary care physicians recognize telemedicine’s potential opportunities, particularly in enhancing patient service. Policymakers aiming to expand the utilization of telemedicine should adopt a comprehensive approach and implement changes that address the needs and concerns of physicians and patients alike.
An Improved DV-Hop Localization Algorithm based on Human Conception Optimization with Time Varying Acceleration Coefficients for Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Panda Subrat Kumar , Acharya Debasis , Das Dushmanta Kumar , Rajagopal R Kumar
Published: July 2023

Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) is widely used in a variety of practical applications. WSN may be used to sense objects, gather information, analyze it, and then transmit it again. The significance of optimization techniques is crucial for the accurate and reliable estimation of the sensor nodes’ location. The positioning accuracy of traditional DV-Hop localization algorithm is not entirely satisfactory instead of it is quite simple, stabilized, feasible, and requires less hardware. Thus to enhance the positioning accuracy without increasing the hardware cost of a sensor node, this article provides an improved DV-Hop localization algorithm using Human Conception Optimization (HCO). The proposed method adds a parameter to alter the anchor nodes' hop size. Furthermore, it is analyzed with traditional DV-Hop, IDV-Hop algorithm, DV-Hop based PSO, and DV-Hop based CTO. The simulation results support the conclusion that, the proposed algorithm performs better than the competing algorithms by minimizing the localization error, localization error variance, and the localization accuracy with varying the number of anchor nodes, total number of nodes, and the communication range.
Assessing the Importance of Anthropometric, Physiological, Physical, and Psychological Fitness Indicators on the Performance of Elite Shooters Using a Talent Identification Approach
Authors: Takhtaei Mehdi , Shakibaee Abolfazl , Hosseini Seyed Morteza
Published: July 2023

Background: Performance in shooting sports is influenced by various factors. Examining different dimensions can help in identifying talent in this sport and lead to a better estimate of performance. The purpose of this research was to determine the importance of anthropometric, physiological, physical, and psychological indicators on the performance of elite shooters.
Method: This study employed a correlation design as a predictive and applied research method. Participants were selected from among 20 to 40-year-old male elite shooters from the Islamic Republic of Iran who had at least ten years of air rifle shooting experience and were members of the national shooting teams. A targeted sampling approach was used, and 47 shooters were selected. Participants completed a 30-trial test, with their scores used as a measure of success. Anthropometric, physiological, physical, and psychological fitness evaluations were conducted, and statistical tests were used to identify and prioritize the factors that were most effective in the obtained scores.
Results: The findings of this study suggest that heart rate per minute, reaction time, interpersonal skills, strength, central stability, emotion control, focus recovery, self-talk, and relaxation were the most important indicators in the shooter's performance.
Conclusion: This study highlights the multifaceted nature of shooter performance and identifies specific indicators that can be targeted for improvement. By addressing these factors, coaches, trainers, and athletes can work to optimize shooter performance and achieve better results in shooting sports.
Evaluation Of Depression, Self-Esteem, Anxiety And Dermatological Quality Of Life Index In Adolescent Acne Patients: A case-control study
Authors: Kazan Didem , İnci Burcu Bahar , Ilchan Selin , Özkoca Defne
Published: July 2023

Background/ objective: Acne vulgaris is commonly seen in adolescents. It could affect the psychology of the patients. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the depression, self-esteem, anxiety, and dermatological quality of life indexes of adolescent patients with AV.
Method: One hundred and sixty patients, aged between 10 and 19 years, with AV; and 100 healthy controls were included in the study. Acne severities of the patients were evaluated via the Global acne grading system by dermatologists. Reynolds adolescents depression scale, Beck adolescents anxiety scale, Coopersmith self-esteem investigatory Scale, and children life quality index were completed by participants.
Results: The RADS and BAAS scores of the study group were significantly higher than controls (respectively; 27.5% & %12.5%, p=0.003, 80% & 64% p=0.001). The percentage of patients with CSES scores below 20 in the study group was significantly higher than in the control group (p=0.001) The higher RADS and BAAS scores were associated with the higher CDLQI score ( p=0.001, p=0.001; respectively). The higher CSES scores were associated with lower CDLQI scores (p=0.001).
Conclusion: Acne vulgaris affects the prevalence of depression, anxiety, and lower self-esteem in adolescent patients. Dermatologists should assess the psychology of the patients and if necessary, psychiatric evaluation should be provided.
Multimodality imaging for diagnosis, risk stratification and treatment monitoring of cardiac sarcoidosis
Authors: Young Kathleen A. , Raoult Tristan , Leccisotti Lucia , Gerber Bernhard , Chareonthaitawee Panithaya , Gheysens Olivier
Published: July 2023

Cardiac sarcoidosis (CS), with either extracardiac involvement or in isolation, is increasingly recognized. Complications from cardiac involvement are the leading cause of death in patients with sarcoidosis, rendering early detection extremely important given the significant therapeutic and prognostic implications. However, the diagnosis of CS remains challenging due to the lack of a reliable gold standard, largely due to the low sensitivity of traditional endomyocardial biopsy and patchy myocardial involvement. Recent advances in cardiac imaging with [18F] fluoro-deoxyglucose positron emission tomography-computed tomography ([18F]FDG PET/CT) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) have provided unprecedented information on the prevalence of CS and have revolutionized the diagnosis and management of CS patients. Abnormal PET/CMR findings are now major criteria in societal guidelines to establish a probabilistic diagnosis of CS. This review provides a brief introduction to CS and a summary of current diagnostic criteria, followed by a review on the current use and strengths of PET/CT and CMR for diagnosis, risk stratification and treatment response evaluation. CMR is the most robust technique to assess left ventricular function, to detect myocardial fibrosis and differentiate CS from other cardiomyopathies and has an excellent negative predictive value. On the other hand, [18F]FDG PET/CT is the modality of choice to assess active myocardial inflammation which may be amenable to immunosuppressive treatment as well as to detect extracardiac involvement, to identify potential biopsy sites and to monitor treatment efficacy. Understanding the complementary value of both techniques is crucial to the optimal utilization of advanced imaging in patients with CS. Lastly, some gaps are identified for future research.
Endogenous Sox8 is a critical factor for timely remyelination and oligodendroglial cell repletion in the cuprizone model
Authors: Freudenstein David , Lippert Magdalena , Popp Janina Sophie , Aprato Jessica , Wegner Michael , Sock Elisabeth , Haase Stefanie , Linker Ralf A. , Alvarado María Nazareth González
Published: July 2023

Genome-wide association studies identified a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) downstream of the transcription factor Sox8, associated with an increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS). Sox8 is known to influence oligodendrocyte terminal differentiation and is involved in myelin maintenance by mature oligodendrocytes. The possible link of a Sox8 related SNP and MS risk, along with the role of Sox8 in oligodendrocyte physiology prompted us to investigate its relevance during de- and remyelination using the cuprizone model. Sox8−/− mice and wildtype littermates received a cuprizone diet for 5 weeks (wk). Sox8−/− mice showed reduced motor performance and weight compared to wildtype controls. Brains were histologically analysed at the maximum of demyelination (wk 5) and on two time points during remyelination (wk 5.5 and wk 6) for oligodendroglial, astroglial, microglial and myelin markers. We identified reduced proliferation of oligodendrocyte precursor cells at wk 5 as well as reduced numbers of mature oligodendrocytes in Sox8−/− mice at wk 6. Moreover, analysis of myelin markers revealed a delay in remyelination in the Sox8−/− group, demonstrating the potential importance of Sox8 in remyelination processes. Our findings present, for the first time, compelling evidence of a significant role of Sox8 in the context of a disease model.
Does lower extremity alignment during normal stance predict lower limb kinematics and kinetics during drop landings?
Authors: Sayers Mark G.L. , Collings Tyler J. , Mellifont Daniel B. , Stuelcken Max C. , Buhmann Robert L.
Published: July 2023

Background
Static lower extremity alignment (LEA) during normal stance has been used clinically as a tool to determine the presence of known anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) risk factors during dynamic tasks. Previous work investigating the relationship between static LEA during normal stance and risk factors for ACL injury is limited by the use of imprecise methods or focuses on knee valgus only and no other potentially important variables. The aim of this investigation was to determine the relationships between static LEA and the corresponding LEA during drop landings.
Methods
Forty-one female athletes were recruited for the study (age: 19.8 ± 2.5 years, height: 1.73 ± 0.06 m, mass: 64.03 ± 6.66 kg). Lower limb kinematic data were collected using a 10 camera infrared motion capture system (500 Hz) with retro-reflective markers placed over key anatomical landmarks. This system was linked to two force platforms (1000 Hz) with subsequent three-dimensional kinematic and kinetic data developed using standard software (Visual3D). Following an appropriate warm-up, data collection involved participants standing with their arms partially abducted to record static LEA. This was following by a series of drop landings from a 0.4 m box onto the force platforms. Maximum LEA data during drop landings were then compared with static LEA.
Results
Analyses showed that in comparison to static stance, during landings the anterior tilt of the pelvis decreased while hip abduction and knee internal rotation increased. At best, static LEA variables were moderately correlated (r = -0.51 to 0.58) with peak values measured during drop landings. Additionally, regression analysis did not yield any significant predictions of any key peak hip or knee variables measured during drop landing (p = 0.15 to 0.89).
Conclusion
When combined, the poor relationships between kinematics during static LEA and LEA during drop landings observed calls into question the practice of using static measures to predict LEA during even simple landing tasks. These findings suggest static assessments of LEA may have minimal value as an ACL injury screening tool.
AI vs Humans: The Future of Academic Peer Review in Public Administration
Authors: Salah Mohammed , Abdelfattah Fadi , Alhalbusi Hussam
Published: July 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of academia, artificial intelligence (AI) presents promising opportunities for enhancing the academic review process. In this study, we evaluated the proficiency of Bard and GPT-4, two of the most advanced AI models, in conducting academic reviews. Bard and GPT-4 were compared to human reviewers, highlighting their capabilities and potential areas for improvement. Through a mixed-methods approach of quantitative scoring and qualitative thematic analysis, we observed a consistent performance of the AI models surpassing human reviewers in comprehensibility, clarity of review, the relevance of feedback, and accuracy of technical assessments. Qualitative analysis revealed nuanced proficiency in evaluating structure, readability, argumentation, narrative coherence, attention to detail, data analysis, and implications assessment. While Bard exhibited exemplary performance in basic comprehension and feedback relevance, GPT-4 stood out in detailed analysis, showcasing impressive attention to minor discrepancies and meticulous scrutiny. The results underscore the potential of AI as an invaluable tool in the academic review process, capable of complementing human reviewers to improve the quality, efficiency, and effectiveness of reviews. However, we also identified areas where human reviewers excel, particularly in understanding complex academic language and intricate logical progressions, offering crucial insights for future AI model training and development.
Medical history of thyroid cancer does not impair prognosis in early breast cancer patients: an analysis study based on SEER database and external cohort
Authors: Li Shuai , Chen Xiaosong , Shen Kunwei
Published: July 2023

Early breast cancer patients who had a medical history of skin or cervix cancers were presently eligible for clinical trials while few data were available regarding thyroid gland cancer. The study estimated the rate of prior thyroid gland cancer and evaluated its impact on survivals among breast cancer patients. Early invasive breast cancer patients from the SEER database (SEER cohort) between 2010 and 2019 and Ruijin Hospital (Ruijin cohort) during 2009 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. Ascian or Pacific Island patients in the SEER cohort (SEER API cohort) were analyzed separately. Chi-square test and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to describe the clinical features. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox proportional hazards model were used to compare the overall survival (OS) and breast cancer specific survival (BCSS). A total of 136,441 patients from the SEER cohort, 17,183 from the SEER API cohort, and 8,079 from the Ruijin cohort were enrolled, of whom 0.68%, 0.81%, and 1.06% had a medical history of thyroid gland cancer, respectively. Patients with prior thyroid gland cancers were significantly older (51-60 years: OR 1.84, 95% CI 1.46-2.30, P < 0.001; 61-70 years: OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.61-2.50, P < 0.001; > 70 years: OR 1.51, 95% CI 1.18-1.92, P = 0.001) and more likely to be API (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.03-1.48, P = 0.026) versus other races. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that patients with a history of thyroid gland cancer had comparable OS (SEER: HR 0.87, 95% CI 0.68-1.11, P = 0.257; SEER API: HR 0.53, 95% CI 0.22-1.28, P = 0.159; Ruijin: HR 1.07, 95% CI 0.26-4.29, P = 0.811) and BCSS (SEER: HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.49-1.08, P = 0.117; SEER API: HR ∞, 95% CI ∞-∞, P = 0.878; Ruijin: HR 0.70, 95% CI 0.10-4.98, P = 0.750) versus those without primary malignancies in the three cohorts. There were of a sizable of early breast cancer patients with medical history of thyroid gland cancer, which was related with different races. Prior thyroid gland cancer had no adverse impact on clinical outcomes, indicating possible eligible in further clinical trials.
Large-capacity Fragile Watermarking Scheme for Color Images Based on Prime Number Distribution Theory
Authors: Hao Weijie , Xie Ruixia , Du Qiaoqiao , Wang Jiuru , Zhang Wenyin
Published: July 2023

Color image digital watermarking technology is an important security protection technology to realize secret communication and content authentication. To better achieve the purpose of color image copyright protection, this paper proposes three watermark embedding schemes for color images based on the prime number distribution theory, embedding the RGB three channels of the color carrier image into binary watermark images of the same size to realize large-capacity watermark embedding. The scheme uses the Rivest Cipher 4 (RC4) encryption algorithm to securely encrypt the image information. During the watermark embedding process, the appropriate pixel value is selected for pixel replacement according to the division of the prime number set within 0-255. The experimental results show that the PSNR values of the three schemes are all greater than 40dB, and the NC values are all close to 1. Compared with the existing algorithms, the scheme proposed in this paper has a large embedding capacity, which can resist common image processing attacks while ensuring good imperceptibility of the watermark, and has good tamper detection and localization capabilities.
RETRACTED: The combination of single-cell and Seq-RNA sequences revealed homeostatic chondrocyte osteoarthritic immune infiltrate
Authors: Han Linqiu , Zha Shuqiang , Dai Jinfang , Zhang Liangping
Published: July 2023

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
Recombinant production of human antimicrobial peptide LL- 37 and its secondary structure
Authors: Pavelka Antonín , Vacek Lukáš , Norek Adam , Kobzová Šárka , Janda Lubomír
Published: July 2023

Antimicrobial peptides, including the human cathelicidin LL-37, offer a possible solution to the global problem of bacterial resistance to antibiotics. LL-37 peptide has potent antimicrobial effects against current multidrug-resistant bacterial strains. The peptide itself is also characterized by a very diverse range of immunomodulatory effects. The aim of this study was to produce antimicrobially active peptide LL-37 in E. coli in high yields using an own expression system pUbEx100 with the fusion protein ubiquitin. The results showed that the peptide GLL-37 could be produced in high amounts, but this peptide did not have antimicrobial activity compared to synthetically produced LL-37. The synthetic peptide LL-37 (sLL-37) alone showed potent activity against multidrug-resistant strains Acinetobacter baumannii and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. CD spectroscopy results showed that the produced peptide GLL-37 is in α-helix form in contrast to the sLL-37 (random-coil form). The recombinant peptide GLL-37 can not bind to the membrane in the α-helix form, it would have to be in the form of a random-coil. This study confirms by CD spectroscopy the previously observed mechanism of access of LL-37 peptide to the bacterial membrane obtained by NMR.
ATF3-induced activation of the NF-κB pathway results in acquired PARP inhibitor resistance in pancreatic adenocarcinoma
Authors: Liu Yang , Cao Yizhi , Liu Pengyi , Zhai Shuyu , Liu Yihao , Tang Xiaomei , Lin Jiayu , Shi Minmin , Qi Debin , Deng Xiaxing , Zhu Youwei , Wang Weishen , Shen Baiyong
Published: July 2023

Purpose
Olaparib, an inhibitor of poly-(adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP), has been shown to have anticancer benefits in patients with pancreatic cancer who have a germline mutation in BRCA1/2. However, resistance acquired on long-term exposure to olaparib significantly impedes clinical efficacy.
Methods
In this study, the chromatin accessibility and differentially expressed transcripts of parental and olaparib-resistant pancreatic cancer cell lines were assessed using the Assay for Transposase Accessible Chromatin with sequencing (ATAC-seq) and mRNA-seq. Detection of downstream genes regulated by transcription factors using ChIP (Chromatin immunoprecipitation assay).
Results
According to pathway enrichment analysis, differentially expressed genes in olaparib-resistant cells were remarkably enriched in the NF-κB signaling pathway. With ATAC-seq, we identified chromatin regions with higher accessibility in olaparib-resistant cells and predicted a series of important transcription factors. Among them, activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) was significantly highly expressed. Functional experiments verified that inhibition of ATF3 suppressed the NF-κB pathway significantly and restored olaparib sensitivity in olaparib-resistant cells.
Conclusion
Experiments in vitro and in vivo indicate ATF3 enhances olaparib resistance through the NF-κB signaling pathway, suggesting that ATF3 could be employed as an olaparib sensitivity and prognostic indicator in patients with pancreatic cancer.
Size, Surface Properties, and Ion Release of Zinc Oxide NPs: Effects on Cytotoxicity, Dopaminergic Gene Expression, and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition in Neuronal PC-12 Cells
Authors: Suthar Jitendra Kumar , Vaidya Anuradha , Ravindran Selvan
Published: July 2023

The extensive applications of Zinc Oxide NPs (ZnO NPs) have resulted in a substantial risk of human exposure via multiple routes of exposure. However, the knowledge of the toxicity of these NPs in nervous system is still limited. A comparative analysis of ZnO NPs of various sizes and NPs of the same size, with and without surface coating, and the potential role of released zinc ions is yet to be thoroughly explored. As a result, we have studied the cellular toxicity of two different-sized ZnO NPs, ZnO-22 (22nm) and ZnO-43 (43nm), and NPs with similar size but with polyvinylpyrrolidone surface coating (ZnO-P, 45nm) with different concentrations. The findings from our study suggested a time, size, and surface coating-dependent cytotoxicity in neural PC-12 cells at a concentration ≥10μg/ml. ZnO NPs treatment significantly increased reactive oxygen and reactive nitrogen species, leading to increased oxidative stress in the neural cells. PC-12 cells' expression of certain genes associated with the dopaminergic system were also investigated. The exposure of ZnO-22 and ZnO-43 significantly upregulated the expression of Monoamine oxidase A and downregulated the expression of the α-synuclein gene. The interaction of NPs with proteins and enzymes in the nervous system is also hazardous. Therefore, acetylcholinesterase enzyme being one such enzyme was also studied for its interaction with these NPs, and results indicated a dose-dependent inhibition of enzyme activity. Furthermore, the study of released zinc ions from the NPs suggested no significant contribution to the observed cytotoxicity compared to the NPs itself.
Magneto-hydrodynamic peristaltic flow of a Jeffery fluid in the presence of heat transfer through a porous medium in an asymmetric channel
Authors: Abd-Alla A. M. , Abo-Dahab Sayed , Salah Doaa. M. , Abdelhafez M. A.
Published: July 2023

This work finds application in porous-fabrication techniques and the chemical industry. This study examines the effects of the magnetic field and heat transfer on peristaltic flow of a Jeffery fluid conveying through an asymmetric channel. The problem is modelled with the aid of a long wavelengths and low Reynolds numbers. The expressions for velocity, temperature, pressure gradient and streamlines are derived using the hypothesis of a long wavelength. Numerical integration is used to estimate both the frictional force and pressure increase. The physical parameters are analysed and discussed graphically and find their physical meaning. The significant outcome of this work is to analyze the flow behaviour in an asymmetric channels. The results of this study can be used to improve pumping mechanisms in engineering and to improve gastrointestinal functions. This analysis allows bodily fluids such as blood and lymph to circulate freely within the arteries and vessels, facilitating the delivery of oxygen, waste excretion, and other essential substances.
Inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase type 2 polymorphism IMPDH2 3757T>C (rs11706052) and 12-month evolution of the graft function in renal transplant recipients on mycophenolate-based immunosuppression
Authors: Trkulja Vladimir , Penezić Luka , Škegro Sandra Nađ , Hadžavdić Ayla , Ganoci Lana , Kaštelan Željko , Božina Nada
Published: July 2023

Variant allele at the inosine monophosphate dehydrogenase type 2 polymorphism IMPDH2 3757T > C has been associated with increased enzyme activity and reduced susceptibility to mycophenolic acid (MPA) in vitro. It has been suggested associated with an increased risk of acute rejection in renal transplant recipients on MPA-based immunosuppression, but not unambiguously. We assessed one-year evolution of the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) in 52 variant carriers and 202 wild-type controls exposed to MPA. Adjusted for a range of demographic, pharmacogenetic, (co)morbidity, and treatment baseline and time-varying covariates, the eGFR slopes to day 28 (GMR = 1.01, 95%CI 0.93–1.09), and between days 28 and 365 (GMR = 1.01, 95%CI 0.99–1.02) were practically identical in variant carriers and wild-type controls. The estimates (95%CIs) remained within the limits of ±20% difference even after adjustment for a strong hypothetical effect of unmeasured confounders. Polymorphism IMPDH2 3757T > C does not affect the renal graft function over the 1st year after transplantation.
Relative contribution of top-down and bottom-up controls on the regulation of the sponge Hymeniacidon perlevis (Montagu, 1814) in Patagonia: an experimental and observational approach.
Authors: Buch Macarena Marello , Gastaldi Marianela , Abrameto Mariza , Firstater Fausto Nahuel
Published: July 2023

Two main perspectives explain the structure of food webs: bottom-up and top-down controls, respectively driven by trophic resources and consumption pressure. There is evidence of the relative contribution of both controls over sponges in tropical environments, but it is still unknown how these controls mediate the regulation of sponge populations in temperate environments. To assess this, we performed in situ manipulative experiments and samplings on the worldwide-distributed sponge Hymeniacidon perlevis in two tidal channels from San Antonio Bay (Argentine Patagonia), with different anthropic nutrients loads. We first experimentally tested the relative contribution of the top-down and bottom-up controls on the individual sponge growth. Then, we identified the consumers of H. perlevis, assessing their consumption pressure. Finally, we assessed the abundance of H. perlevis and the concentration of particulate and dissolved trophic resources for the sponge at both tidal channels. We found that H. perlevis was more abundant and grew more in the channel with the highest concentration of trophic resources, despite the consumption pressure of several consumers (ophiuroids, polychaetes, crabs and fishes). Among the available trophic resources, nitrate, phosphate and total suspended solids best explained the abundance pattern of H. perlevis throughout a year. Our results show that the abundance and individual growth of H. perlevis is mostly bottom-up controlled, through particulate but mainly dissolved trophic resources. The role of a symbiotic pathway in the fulfillment of the nutritional requirements of H. perlevis is also discussed.
Translation Surfaces of Finite Type Regardingthe Third Fundamental Form
Authors: Alzaareer Hamza , AL-ZOUBI Hassan
Published: July 2023

Translational surfaces in 3-dimensional Euclidean space (E3) areused in various fields, such as differential geometry, computer graphics, andmaterial science. Studying the properties of these surfaces play an essential rolein developing algorithms that can efficiently analyze and manipulate them. Inthis article, we explore the third fundamental form of the translation surfaces.Notably, we find that Sherk’s surface is the only translation surface of thefinite Chen type regarding the third fundamental form.
SCF-MAC Protocol: A selective node’s-waking up, collision-alleviating, fault- tolerant medium access protocol for Linear Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Mann Mamta , Singh Rishipal
Published: July 2023

Linear sensor network is becoming an interesting area of research due to its distinctive characteristic of linearity. Also, when it comes to monitoring and surveillance task, LSNs are of great importance. However, the battery constraint nature of sensor network act as a limiting factor, thus making energy efficiency an essential requirement for designing LSNs. In context of the seven-layer approach, Mac layer is considered to be the most essential layer for energy conservation. In this paper, we have proposed a Mac protocol specifically for LSN which is divided into homogeneous grades having sink node at one end only. It is a synchronous duty-cycled protocol utilizing pipeline forwarding or staggered scheduling along with a fault tolerance mechanism to overcome load balancing issues. Extensive discrete time simulations have been performed which shows that SCF MAC have remarkably performed better than the previous state of art models in terms of throughput, packet drop probability, energy consumption.
Study of catalytic properties and grinding performance of single-crystal SiC heterogeneous Fenton reaction grinding discs
Authors: Hu Da , Lu Jiabin , Li Huilong , Cao Jiyang , Yan Qiusheng
Published: July 2023

This study proposes an ultra-precision processing method based on the heterogeneous Fenton reaction of grinding discs to improve the grinding efficiency of single-crystal SiC via a chemical reaction. Ceramic-bonded grinding discs with heterogeneous Fenton reaction were prepared, and the influence of the chemical reaction parameters on the catalytic properties of the discs as well as the grinding effect of single-crystal SiC under different grinding parameters were investigated and the grinding mechanism was analysed. The results indicate that the higher the mass fraction of H2O2, the stronger the catalytic properties. The maximum material removal rate (MRR) (43.13 nm/min) and the lowest surface roughness (Ra 1.06 nm) were obtained at 20 wt.%. Moreover, the lower the pH value, the stronger the catalytic properties of the grinding solution and the larger the MRR; however, the best grinding surface quality was obtained at pH = 3. The MRR increased with the grinding pressure, and the surface quality was superior at a pressure of 62.4 kPa. The MRR also increased with increasing disc speed, yielding a low surface roughness at a speed of 200 rpm. The mechanical and chemical effects are balanced to improve the surface quality of SiC. The Fenton reaction grinding disc oxidises the SiC surface to form an oxide layer of SiO2; subsequently, the mechanical action of the abrasive removes the oxide layer, exposing a new SiC surface where oxidation and material removal continue to occur. This cyclical process enables the efficient grinding of single-crystal SiC.
A Novel Ferroptosis-Related Gene Signature for Chemotherapy Resistance Prediction in Triple-negative Breast Cancer
Authors: You Huan , Qian Hongyan , Miao Shichen , Li Xuan , Liu Bingyi , Zhang Dan , Chen Yanpeng , Ni Qichao , Sheng Chenyi
Published: July 2023

Taxanes are first-line chemotherapeutic agents for patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, resistance, the main cause of clinical treatment failure and poor prognosis, reduces their effectiveness and has become an increasingly important problem. Recently, a form of iron-dependent programmed cell death called ferroptosis was reported to play an important role in regulating tumor biological behavior. In this study, we revealed the prognostic significance of the ferroptosis‑related gene (FERG) model and clarified that ferroptosis-related genes may be promising candidate biomarkers in cancer therapy. First, resistance-related FERGs were screened, and univariate Cox regression analysis was used to construct a prognostic model, including GRIK3, IDO1, and CLGN. Then, the patients with TNBC in the TCGA database were classified into high-risk and low-risk groups. The identification of TNBC in the TCGA database revealed that patients with high scores had a higher probability of dying earlier than those with low scores. Moreover, these three genes were associated with immune infiltrates and checkpoints in TNBC patients. In conclusion, this study suggested that FERGs are significantly associated with chemotherapy resistance in patients with TNBC and that these genes can be used as prognostic predictors in these patients and possibly for targeted therapy in the future.
Altered mitochondrial dynamics in chondrocytes cause metabolic reprogramming and influence HIF-2 alpha expression in osteoarthritis
Authors: wang Chenzhong , Yang Yi , Liu Bo , Wan Shengcheng , Yao Zhenjun , Zhang Ying , Zhang Chi
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the relationship between mitochondrial dynamics, cell metabolism and extracellular matrix metabolism in chondrocytes to evaluate contribution of mitochondrial dynamics to the development of osteoarthritis (OA). Dynamin-related protein (DRP) 1 and optic atrophy (OPA)1 expression were examined in cartilage from surgical specimens and mouse models. Functional analyses were carried out by short interfering RNA-mediated knockdown of DRP1 and OPA1 in cultured spheroids. Seahorse XF96 assay to determine metabolism state of chondrocytes. RNA-seq was performed to find potential mechanism in OPA1-/- chondrocytes. OA progression was assessed by OA score, immunohistochemistry and micro-CT analysis after destabilizing the medial meniscus surgery with intra-articular injection of adeno-associated virus. DRP1 was markedly downregulated while OPA1 was upregulated in OA cartilage compared to healthy cartilage of human and mice knee joint. DRP1 knockdown in chondrocytes resulted in the formation of megamitochondria, and OPA1 knockdown resulted in the increased fragmented mitochondria of. Both knockdown of DRP1 and OPA1 restored the normal mitochondrial morphology. Loss of OPA1 inhibited cartilage degradation and promoted chondrocyte extracellular matrix synthesis while DRP1 knockdown had the opposite effects; cartilage homeostasis was restored in chondrocytes lacking both DRP1 and OPA1. IL-1β causing a shift from oxidative phosphorylation to glycolysis in chondrocytes, which was reversed by OPA1 depletion. OPA1 knockdown downregulated HIF-2α mRNA and protein level and protected mice against OA. Perturbation of mitochondrial dynamics in chondrocytes contributes to cartilage destruction and the progression of OA. These data identify OPA1 as a therapeutic target in OA.
Flood risk assessment using GIS- MCDM-AHP model: case of the Wadi Chafrou watershed (Northern Tunisia)
Authors: Baccari Noamen , Sebei Abdelaziz , Soussi Dhekra , Zouhri Lahcen , Saidi Salwa
Published: July 2023

Inundations represent one of the most impactful and hazardous natural disasters, leading to extensive loss of life and property. The establishment of flood susceptibility map is highly needed for risk prevention. This research takes Chafrou watershed, NE Tunisia as the study area. Five influencing criteria including Rainfall, Land use/Land cover, Slope, lithology and Streams Network was selected and processed utilizing GIS based on Multi-criteria Decision Making model (MCDM) via the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) method to carry out the flood hazard susceptibility model and estimated the Flood Hazard potential Index (FHI). The approach used in the weight calculation is the prioritized by pairwise comparison (PWC).
The application of the proposed approach shows that the land use / Land cover is the most influencing parameter flooding with weight order 35%, followed by the Slope (27%). The flood susceptibility model elaborated shows that the study area is subdivided in five categories: areas with very high risk of flooding which cover (11%) of the total surface of the basin, high risk areas (13%), moderate risk zones (24%), low hazard areas (26%) and very low hazard areas (26%). The validation of results by GIS-MCDM-AHP flood susceptibility histogram method is more than 73%, so the prediction effect is excellent. The results of this research are valuable to determine the interplay between flood and influencing criteria’s in Chafrou watershed, which could be used as a guide for the flood susceptibility evaluation and can supply a data basis for catastrophes prevention and mitigation for NE of Tunisia.
The Estimating Level of Awareness and Knowledge of Colorectal Cancer Among General Population in Al-Ahsa Region, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alali Mohammed , Alessa Mohammed , Alturaiki Hassan , Alkuaybi Fatimah , Alabbad Noora , Buali Fatimah , Alqattan Jumanah , Alabdullah Zainab , Almumtin Khulud , Albinsaad Loai
Published: July 2023

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a type of cancer that affects the colon. Globally, CRC is one of the most common types of cancer in the world among both genders. The east of Saudi Arabia, Al Ahsa, is reported by the Saudi Cancer Registry to have the highest incidence. Most patients seek medical help in a late stage of this disease with a survival rate lower than the survival rate all over the world. Aim: This study aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness of CRC signs and symptoms among the general population in Alahsa. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2022 to February 2023 targeted general population in Alahsa region of Saudi Arabia. Result: 385 out of 457 of the participants which is represented as 84% answered the questionnaire correctly. Conclusion: There is an excellent level of awareness of colorectal cancer signs and symptoms among general population in Alahsa. This reflects the excellent knowledge and education among the general .population. Leading us to expect an early medical help seek if anyone experienced colorectal cancer symptoms
Estimating Missing Hydrological Data using Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH) in Mahanadi Basin, India
Authors: Malhotra Karishma Bhatnagar , Nema Arvind Kumar
Published: July 2023

High-quality hydrological data is essential for a wide range of applications, including the planning, design, operation, and maintenance of multipurpose water resource projects. It also plays a crucial role in utilizing various modelling and statistical methods for flood prediction and management, conducting hydrological analyses, estimating and monitoring environmental flows, as well as supporting research and development efforts. Hydrological data comprising of river Gauge (G), Discharge (D), Sediment (S) and Quality (Q) are collected at daily, weekly, ten-daily or monthly frequencies using either manual entry procedures or automatic measurement systems at hydrological observations sites. These are stored in databases that are made available to researchers, water managers etc for planning and research purposes. Missing data is a common problem in numerous hydrological databases that leads to inaccurate results, reducing statistical power and reliability of the data. Missing data also affects statistical analysis thereby reducing reliability and modelling conclusions drawn from using these incomplete datasets. To address this problem, the Group Method of Data Handling (GMDH) approach is applied to analyze data matrices from four hydrological observation sites in the Mahanadi River Basin, India. The daily discharge data is split into a learning set (70%) and a training set (30%) for the GMDH model. The Coefficients of determination (R2), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) and Mean Absolute Error (MAE) was used to evaluate the performance of GMDH model. The results illustrated the successful application of the GMDH algorithm in addressing missing data issues within discharge data, effectively filling the gaps.
Implementation feasibility of Animal Assisted Therapy in a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Fernandez Eduardo López , Cuesta Alba Palacios , Martínez Alicia Rodríguez , Jodar Marta Olmedilla , Andrade Rocio Fernández , Fernandez Raquel Mediavilla , Díaz Juan Ignacio Sánchez , Máximo-Bocanegra Nuria
Published: July 2023

Purpose: Animal assisted therapies are an innovative strategy within health care humanisation initiatives, and they could play a role in the reduction of pain or anxiety. The main objective of this work was to evaluate the feasibility of implementing animal assisted therapy in a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit.
Methods: A prospective, non-randomized study of Animal Assisted Therapy was designed in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit of the Hospital Universitario 12 de Octubre of Madrid, from January 2019 to December 2019. The study sample included patients who had been admitted to the unit and were over three years old.
Satisfaction surveys were collected from the patients, family and health personnel involved. Physiological variables and the level of pain, (Visual Analogue Scale or Wong Baker scale) fear (Child Medical Fear Scale), and anxiety (modified Yale Anxiety Preoperatory Scale), were evaluated before and after each session. Any existence of adverse events was recorded.
Results: A total of 74 Therapy sessions were performed on 61 patients. All sessions were completed without any adverse effects. 164 surveys were collected, providing an overall project rating of 9.69 out of a possible 10. The survey comments were found to be positive in most cases. No differences were found in the physiological variables measured before and after each session. There was a statistically significant decrease (p <0.01) in pain, fear, and anxiety levels.
Conclusions: The implementation of an animal-assisted therapy project in a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit is feasible, safe and has a high degree of acceptance among both participants and healthcare staff. It could therefore be considered as an alternative non-pharmacological therapy for the reduction of pain, fear, or anxiety.