bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Vitamin C Supplements and Frailty in Korean Older Adults: Analysis of the 2018–2019 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys
Authors: Park Seung Guk , Kim Hyoeun
Published: February 2024

Background
Frailty increases with age and as a result, older adults suffer from increased medical problems and reduced daily living abilities. However, few studies have examined the association between vitamin C intake and frailty among older adults. Therefore, we investigated the association between vitamin C supplementation and frailty in Koreans aged ≥ 65 years.
Methods
In the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2018–2019), participants were divided into a group that did not consume dietary supplements (non-DS, n = 1,530) and a group that consumed vitamin C supplements (vitamin C, n = 179). The group that consumed vitamin C was further divided into subgroups; those that consumed less than the recommended daily amount of vitamin C (< 100 mg) and those that consumed the recommended daily amount (100–999 mg, 1000–1999 mg, ≥ 2000 mg). Participants were also divided based on the duration of supplement intake (< 1 year, ≥ 1 year). The odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) of frailty and vitamin C intake were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, education level, income level, living status (alone or not alone), body mass index, drinking frequency, smoking status, presence of chronic disease, and protein and fat intake.
Results
Older participants who consumed vitamin C supplements were at a reduced risk of frailty (OR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.18–0.83) than those who did not consume vitamin C supplements. Participants who met adequate vitamin C daily requirements (≥ 100) exhibited a significantly improved risk of frailty (OR: 0.55, 95% CI: 0.32–0.95) than those who did not consume a sufficient amount of vitamin C. As vitamin C intake increased, the risk of developing frailty adversely decreased (OR: 0.37, 95% CI: 0.16–0.84, p = 0.008). Continuous intake of vitamin C for more than a year (OR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.10–0.63) also lowered the risk of frailty.
Conclusions
These results suggest that adequate vitamin C intake to meet daily requirements is more likely to be effective in the management of frailty and that additional vitamin C intake for a sufficient period based on a regular diet is also expected to help manage frailty.
Cognitive training via mobile app for addressing eating disorders’ cognitions in adolescents: a randomized control trial protocol
Authors: Corberán Marta , Arnáez Sandra , Saman Yuliya , Pascual-Vera Belén , García-Soriano Gemma , Roncero María
Published: February 2024

The most empirically supported psychological treatment for eating disorders is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), but there are several difficulties when it comes to its efficacy and access. Recently, a mobile app called GG eating disorders-Adolescents (GGED-AD) was created to complement CBTto help adolescents work on their self-dialogue related to the core beliefs of eating disorders. The objective of this study is to present the protocol for a randomized controlled trial to explore the efficacy of GGED-AD.
Methods: The study will be carried out in adolescents aged 13 to 16 from an educational center in the Valencian Community. The participants will be randomized into two groups: the experimental group will use the GGED-AD app during 14 consecutive days for approximately 5 minutes each day; and the control group will use a neutral app (GGNEUTRAL) during the same time. Both groups will complete instruments that assess dysfunctional beliefs related to eating disorders, eating symptoms, symptoms of depression and anxiety, body satisfaction and self-esteem before and after the intervention. A follow-up will be conducted one month later.
Results: A decrease in the degree of ascription to dysfunctional beliefs associated with eating disorders and eating symptomatology is expected, as well as an increase in body satisfaction and the self-esteem of the participants of the experimental group.
Discussion: The app in this study could help tackle and prevent ED-related symptoms in adolescents.
Trial registration: NCT06039514
Remote monitoring of CAR T-cell treated patients by a specialized nurse to detect and manage late complications: report of the CARAMA program
Authors: Colin Fanny , Bellec Adeline , Bars Laetitia Le , Granger Magali , Lucas Leslie , Ricard Tiphaine , De Guibert Sophie , Manson Guillaume , Mear Jean Baptiste , Lhomme Faustine , Marchand Tony , escoffre martine , Decaux Olivier , Perthus Alya , Lamy Thierry , Houot Roch , Moignet-Autrel aline
Published: February 2024

Background
CAR T-cells have been approved for the treatment of relapsed/refractory (R/R) diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), mantle cell lymphoma (MCL), follicular lymphoma (FL), acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), and multiple myeloma (MM). Although acute toxicities of CAR T-cells are well handled during hospitalization, delayed complications, including cytopenias, infections and relapses, are more challenging to manage after hospital discharge. To address this issue, a specific program (CARAMA) was initiated in Rennes University Hospital consisting in remote monitoring of CAR T-cell recipients by a specialized nurse.
Methods
Patients treated with CAR T-cells were followed remotely by a CARAMA nurse after hospital discharge. Adverse events and interventions were prospectively collected by the CARAMA nurse who called patients daily until day 21, twice a week until day 28, once a week until month 2, every other week until month 3, once a month until month 6, and once every 3 months until month 12 or until relapse/progression.
Results
Between September 2019 and December 2022, the program enrolled 150 patients with a median age of 64 years (range, 16-80). Patients received a median of 15 calls (range, 0-41).
The CARAMA nurse recorded complications including cytopenias (111 patients, 73.5%) with transfusion (44 patients, 29.1%) and/or growth factor (110 patients, 72.8%) requirements, and infections in need of antibiotics (37 patients, 24.5%). Disease relapse was detected within CARAMA before a planned medical consultation in 24/65 patients (36.9%). The CARAMA nurse referred 75 patients (49.7%) to their general practitioner (N=71), hematologist (N=24) and/or other physician (N=29) and requested hospitalization for 41 patients (27.2%), due to infection (48.8%), profound cytopenias (14.6%), disease relapse (17.1%), and/or other causes (19.5%). Supportive measures were organized for 63 patients (41.7%).
A survey at 3 months of the CARAMA program confirmed the high level of patient satisfaction.
Conclusions
Remote monitoring of patients treated with CAR T-cells, by a specialized dedicated nurse, allows early detection and management of delayed complications. It also saves medical time and resources. Finally, this close follow-up is reassuring for the patients and contributes to their well-being. These results support the development of CARAMA nurses in CAR T-cell centers.
Reducing the computational cost and time of environmental flow estimation based on machine learning approaches
Authors: Haghgoo Seiran , Amanollahi Jamil , Kamangar Barzan Bahrami
Published: February 2024

In recent decades, the reckless exploitation of rivers has caused significant changes in their ecosystems and upstream flow. It is imperative to understand that preservation of river ecosystems solely relies on maintaining the environmental flow (EF). Estimating the EF requires filed sampling, which are both time-consuming and costly. Thus, the purpose of this research is to estimate EF for a river and generalize its result to adjacent rivers using the modelling. To determine the EF, the physical habitat simulation (PHABSIM) model was used. Habitat suitability indexes (HSI) were created based on the filed survey for water velocity, flow depth, channel index and water temperature in a river. To predict the EF for other rivers, the linear regression model (LR) and two different types of neural network models, including Adaptive Neuro-Fuzzy Inference System (ANFIS) and multi-layer perceptron (MLP) were utilized. In this study, 80% and 20% of the data were used for training and testing phases, respectively. Among the models, in the ANFIS model, the date obtained for both training phase and testing phase were as follows respectively. R2 = 0.98, RMSE = 0.0248 and MAE = 0.0006 as well as R2 = 0.97, RMSE = 0.0295 and MAE = 0.0008. The accuracy of them were higher compared to MLP and LR models in predicting EF. Therefore, the ANFIS hybrid model can be a suitable alternative method for estimating the EF.
Generation expansion planning within the context of electricity markets
Authors: Koltsaklis Nikolaos E. , Knápek Jaroslav
Published: February 2024

Generation expansion planning is defined as the problem determining the optimal type of energy technologies to be installed, time, and construction location. This problem becomes even more complicated within the context of electricity markets since market conditions have to be taken into consideration, including their volatilities and shocks. This work addresses the problem of optimal generation expansion planning, taking into account the market operation through the introduction of unit commitment constraints. In addition, it considers the penetration of distributed energy resources into the system, including energy storage systems and demand response programs. The overall methodological framework is based on mixed-integer programming techniques and has been tested in an illustrative power system under various assumptions regarding CO2 emissions limits as well as CO2 and natural gas fuel prices. The results highlight that renewable power units are installed in all cases, while non-renewable power units are installed only if they are low-carbon (biomass and nuclear) or they are equipped with a CCS technology (hard coal and natural gas). In addition, there is a positive correlation with the installation of energy storage systems; namely, the more the capacity of the installed RES units, the more the capacity of the installed energy storage systems. The increase in the price of natural gas fuel is able to lead to power mixes with higher CO2 intensity, if it is combined with a low CO2 emissions price. Energy storage systems, accompanied by demand response programs to some extent, play a decisive role in both energy and reserves balance in the zero-emissions power mix. System operators, regulatory authorities, and potential investors can utilize the developed optimization framework to quantify the roadmap and the long-term dynamics of the studied power system to optimize the investment strategy of their resources and portfolios.
The clinical significance of emotional urgency in bipolar disorder: A scoping review
Authors: Teh Wen Lin , Yeow Si Sheng , Liu Jianlin , Subramaniam Mythily , Ho Roger
Published: February 2024

Background. Emotional urgency, defined as a trait concept of emotion-based impulsivity, is at least moderately associated with general psychopathology. However, its clinical significance and associations with clinically relevant features of bipolar disorder is unclear. This scoping review aims address this gap by determining the extent of evidence in a niche scope of study. Methods. Evidence of between-group differences of positive and negative urgency, its associations with mood severity, and all peripheral associations related to illness and psychosocial outcomes were synthesized based on PRISMA checklists and guidelines for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR). Design. Electronic databases were searched of articles published between January 2001 and May 2023. An initial search yielded 999 entries; a total of 10 articles were selected for this review. Results: Differences in urgency scores between bipolar disorder and healthy controls were large (Cohen’s d ranged from 1.77 to 2.20). Negative urgency was at least moderately associated with overall trauma, emotional abuse, neglect, suicide ideation, neuroticism, and irritable/cyclothymic temperament, whereas positive urgency was at least moderately associated with various aspects of aggression and quality of life. Positive but not negative urgency was associated with quality of life. Conclusion: Large between-group differences found for emotional urgency in bipolar disorder imply large clinical significance. Emotional urgency was associated with clinical features indicating worser features and outcomes. Given the high clinical heterogeneity of the disorder, emotional urgency may be an important phenotype indicative of greater disorder severity.
Comparison of sex differences on outcomes after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Han Yuwei , Zhang Bingying , Qi Xin , Yuan Guanqian , Liang Guobiao , Li Xiaoming , Hao Guangzhi
Published: February 2024

Objective
Sex differences in outcomes of patients with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) remain controversial. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the sex differences in the prognosis of patients with aSAH.
Methods This study retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of aSAH patients admitted to the Department of Neurosurgery of General Hospital of Northern Theater Command, from April 2020 to January 2022. The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) was used to evaluate outcomes at 3-month post-discharge. Baseline characteristics, in-hospital complications and outcomes were compared after 1:1 propensity score matching (PSM).
Results A total of 665 patients were included and the majority (63.8%) were female. Female patients were significantly older than male patients (59.3 ± 10.9 years vs. 55.1 ± 10.9 years, P < 0.001). After PSM, 141 male and 141 female patients were compared. Comparing postoperative complications and mRS scores, the incidence of delayed cerebral ischemia (DCI) and hydrocephalus and mRS ≥ 2 at 3-month were significantly higher in female patients than in male patients. After adjustment, the analysis of risk factors for unfavorable prognosis at 3-month showed that age, sex, smoking, high Hunt Hess grade, high mFisher score, DCI, and hydrocephalus were independent risk factors.
Conclusions Female patients with aSAH have a worse prognosis than male patients, and this difference may be because females are more vulnerable to DCI and hydrocephalus.
Correlation of testicular melatonin and cellular stress in an annual spermatogenic cycle of Clarias batrachus
Authors: Acharyya Akash , Hasan Kazi Nurul
Published: February 2024

Melatonin, primarily produced by pineal gland, shows a rhythmic pattern of synthesis in response to environmental cues. Hitherto, the role of testicular melatonin in the regulation of annual spermatogenic cycle is indeterminate in any fish species. Present study aims to explore a correlation, for the first time, of melatonin with cellular stress levels in accordance to the rhythmic progression of spermatogenesis through six distinct reproductive phases of an annual gonadal cycle of catfish, Clarias batrachus under natural photo-thermal conditions. We assessed gonadosomatic index (GSI), testicular melatonin concentrations, relative percentage of haploid cells by using DNA dye in the seminiferous tubules, and different intracellular stress markers. The concentration of testicular melatonin displayed a distinct seasonal pattern, reaching their peak during the “phase of functional maturity”. Interestingly, the levels of 2’,7’–dichlorofluorescein [reactive oxygen species (ROS) marker], malondialdehyde (MDA) and RNS (total nitrate) were found significantly lowered at the verge of “mature state”. Correlation and LOESS regression analyses showed a striking positive relationship between testicular melatonin concentration and the activity of antioxidative enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and glutathione S-transferase (GST). Principal component (PC) analysis also identified the key components of “mature state” viz., GSI, testicular melatonin, haploid cell population (spermatid and spermatozoa), and the activity of enzymatic antioxidants. Cumulatively, melatonin may have a role in growth and maturation of spermatogenic cells by reducing the cellular stress to augment the quality of germ cells required for seed production in the culture of any fish species.
The clinical significance of the lymph node ratio as a recurrence indicator in ampullary cancer after curative pancreaticoduodenectomy
Authors: Hasegawa Shinichiro , Wada Hiroshi , Kubo Masahiko , Mukai Yosuke , Mikamori Manabu , Akita Hirofumi , Matsuura Norihiro , Kitakaze Masatoshi , Masuike Yasunori , Sugase Takahito , Shinno Naoki , Kanemura Takashi , Hara Hisashi , Sueda Toshinori , Nishimura Junichi , Yasui Masayoshi , Omori Takeshi , Miyata Hiroshi , Ohue Masayuki
Published: February 2024

Background
The clinical significance of the lymph node ratio (LNR), the number of metastatic lymph nodes per dissected lymph node, has not been sufficiently clarified in ampullary cancer.
Methods
Among patients diagnosed histopathologically with ampullary cancer between 1980 and 2018, the study included 106 who underwent pathological radical resection by pancreaticoduodenectomy. The relationships between the LNR and metastatic lymph node sites and prognosis were examined.
Results
Multivariate analysis revealed that sex and lymph node metastasis were independent prognostic factors. In the 46 patients (43%) with metastatic lymph nodes, the LNR in the recurrence group was significantly higher than that in the non-recurrence group (0.15 ± 0.11 vs. 0.089 ± 0.071, p = 0.025). The receiver operating characteristic curve demonstrated that the LNR cut-off value, 0.07 (area under the curve = 0.70, sensitivity 81%, specificity 56%), was a significant indicator for recurrence (22% vs. 61%, p = 0.016) and prognosis (5-year survival: 48% vs. 83%, p = 0.028). Among the metastatic lymph node sites in the 46 positive cases, lymph node metastases developed from the peripancreatic head region (80%, 37/46) to the superior mesenteric artery (33%, 15/46) and para-aortic (11%, 5/46) regions.
Conclusion
Lymph node metastasis is an independent prognostic factor, and the LNR is a significant indicator for recurrence and prognosis in patients with ampullary cancer.
Achieving High Power Continuous Wave and Short Pulses of Semiconductor Laser for Use in Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: AL-Shaikh Fatima , El-Zarrad Abubakr , Ahmed Moustafa
Published: February 2024

Semiconductor laser (SCL) is a promising light source in photodynamic therapy (PDT). Overcoming the limitation of the low-penetration depth of PDT and hence enhancing its therapeutic effect by adding a hyperthermia factor to the cancer treatment at a deep level requires enhancing the laser power beyond 100mW in the CW and/or pulse mode. In this paper, we presented a theoretical guide for designing and optimizing SCL parameters to achieve high CW power and high-power short-time pulses to promote laser performance in PDT. High-power CW output was achieved by optimizing the parameters that control the light-current (L-I) characteristics. Picosecond high-power pulses were predicted based on simulation of the laser signal under sinusoidal current modulation using the optimized CW parameters along with an appropriate selection of the modulation frequency and index signal class. The characteristics of the laser signal under intensive simulations over wide ranges of modulation frequency and index were used to classify the dynamic types of the laser signal. The operating domain of each of these types was mapped over a (modulation frequency versus index), and bifurcation diagrams were constructed to illustrate the flow among these domains. We spotted the variation of both peak power and pulse width of the periodic pulses with modulation parameters. CW output with power reaching ~ 360mW was predicted using facet reflectivities of 0.01 and 0.99, cavity length as short as 120µm, internal loss as small as 100m-1 , and confinement factor greater than 0.2. Periodic picosecond pulses with peak power reaching ~ 440mW were predicted when the modulation index exceeds unity and the modulation frequency is higher than one-half of the relaxation oscillation. The pulse gets narrower with the increase of the modulation index and/or frequency. The obtained results would help design SCL with high power for efficient use in PDT with thermal factor applications.
Controlling flow patterns and topology in active emulsions
Authors: Negro Giuseppe , Head Louise , Carenza Livio , Shendruk Tyler , Marenduzzo Davide , Gonnella Giuseppe , Tiribocchi Adriano
Published: February 2024

Active emulsions and liquid crystalline shells are intriguing and experimentally realisable types of topological matter. Here we numerically study the morphology and spatiotemporal dynamics of a double emulsion, where one or two passive small droplets are embedded in a larger active droplet. We find activity introduces a variety of rich and nontrivial nonequilibrium states in the system. First, a double emulsion with a single active droplet becomes self-motile, and there is a transition between translational and rotational motion: both of these regimes remain defect-free, hence topologically trivial.
Second, a pair of particles nucleate one or more disclination loops, with conformational dynamics resembling a rotor or chaotic oscillator, accessed by tuning activity. In the first state a single, topologically charged, disclination loop powers the rotation. In the latter state, this disclination stretches and writhes in 3D, continuously undergoing recombination to yield an example of an active living polymer.
These emulsions can be self-assembled in the lab, and provide a pathway to form flow and topology patterns in active matter in a controllable way, as opposed to bulk systems that typically yield active turbulence.
Prognostic value of cerebrospinal fluid tumor cell count in leptomeningeal disease from solid tumors
Authors: Barbour Andrew B. , Blouw Barbara , Taylor Lynne P. , Graber Jerome J. , McGranahan Tresa , Blau Molly , Halasz Lia M. , Lo Simon S. , Tseng Yolanda D. , Venur Vyshak , Yang Jonathan T.
Published: February 2024

Purpose: Treatment decisions for leptomeningeal disease (LMD) rely on patient risk stratification, since clinicians lack objective prognostic tools. The introduction of rare cell capture technology for identification of cerebrospinal fluid tumor cells (CSF-TCs) improved the sensitivity of LMD diagnosis, but prognostic value is unknown. This study assesses the prognostic value of CSF-TC density in patients with LMD from solid tumors.
Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with newly diagnosed or previously treated LMD from a single institution who had CNSide assay testing for CSF-TCs from 2020 to 2023. Univariable and multivariable survival analyses were conducted with Cox proportional-hazards modeling. Maximally-selected rank statistics were used to determine an optimal cutpoint for CSF-TC density and survival.
Results: Of 31 patients, 29 had CSF-TCs detected on CNSide. Median (interquartile range [IQR]) CSF-TC density was 67.8 (4.7-639) TCs/mL. CSF cytology was positive in 16 of 29 patients with positive CNSide (CNSide diagnostic sensitivity = 93.5%, negative predictive value = 85.7%). Median (IQR) survival from time of CSF-TC detection was 176 (89-481) days. On univariable and multivariable analysis, CSF-TC density was significantly associated with survival. An optimal cutpoint for dichotomizing survival by CSF-TC density was 19.34 TCs/mL. The time-dependent sensitivity and specificity for survival using this stratification were 76% and 67% at 6 months and 65% and 67% at 1 year, respectively.
Conclusions: CSF-TC density may carry prognostic value in patients with LMD from solid tumors. Integrating CSF-TC density into LMD patient risk-stratification may help guide treatment decisions.
Space disinfection using TiO2 photocatalyst reduces the incidence of febrile neutropenia in cancer patients
Authors: Iizuka Kazuihde , Ochiai Heihachiro , Harazono Toyohiro , Iizuka Yoshikazu , Tsuchida Sachio , Umemura Hiroshi , Somei Junichi , Tanimichi Yumiko , Yamamoto Haruka , Minoshima Jiro , Yamashiro Misaki , Miura Katsuhiro , Nakamura Hideki , Nakayama Tomohiro , Aida Yoko , Hatta Yoshihiro , Takei Masami
Published: February 2024

Purpose
Febrile neutropenia (FN) is life-threatening condition, and airborne microorganisms have been identified as one of the potential transmission routes. In this study, our objective was to evaluate spatial sterilization using photocatalytic oxidative decomposition reactions is effective to prevent FN in patients undergoing cancer treatment.
Methods
One air purifier equipped a mechanism that irradiates photocatalytic platinum-added titanium dioxide with LED (LED-TiO2 device) was installed per 21.5–35 m3 in hospital rooms to investigate changes in the incidence of FN and the number of airborne microorganisms.
Results
Airborne microorganisms in the hospital rooms matched those responsible for nosocomial infections. The incidence of FN was significantly reduced after installation of the LED-TiO2 device (9/13 vs 2/12, P = 0.015). The LED-TiO2 device decreased the number of airborne microorganisms in patient-free rooms by approximately 75% after 2 hours (P < 0.001). When patient was in the room, the number of airborne microorganisms increased with medical procedure. However, after 20 minutes after procedure, the number of airborne microorganisms was approximately 50% lower than without the device room (p = 0.019).
Conclusions
The LED-TiO2 device successfully achieved spatial disinfection in hospital rooms, and reduced the incidence of FN. Spatial disinfection using photocatalysts is considered an effective new infection prevention measure in patients with severe neutropenia undergoing cancer treatment.
An initial diagnosed chronic myeloid leukemia presenting as panuveitis combined with retinal and choroidal vascular occlusion: a case report
Authors: Yan Xixi , Yang Hongxia , Ruan Xiaolan , Chen Changzheng , Jiang Shuanghong , Yuan Jing
Published: February 2024

Background
Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) can manifest ocular complications stemming from hematologic irregularities or direct infiltration of neoplastic cells. This article details the case of a patient with newly diagnosed CML exhibiting elevated platelet counts (PLT) who developed panuveitis accompanied by retinal vascular occlusion.
Case presentation:
A 52-year-old woman experienced a notable decline in vision in her left eye over a 2-week period. Classical anterior uveitis, vitreous cavity opacity, optic nerve edema, and retinal vascular obstruction were observed. The right eye exhibited papilledema and retinal vein tortuosity. Despite admission, the condition of both eyes deteriorated, accompanied by a continuous increase in PLT. She was diagnosed with CML based on bone marrow biopsy and chromosomal examination. Following platelet apheresis therapy and chemotherapy, the condition of her right eye significantly improved, but the left eye's condition remained irreversible.
Conclusions
This is a rare case of newly diagnosed CML presenting with diverse ocular manifestations in both eyes. The disparate outcomes in eyes with varying lesion stages underscore the importance of prompt diagnosis.
Subduction thrust valving action revealed from time-lapse imaging of deep Hikurangi slow slip events
Authors: Herath Pasan , Audet Pascal
Published: February 2024

Slow slip events (SSEs) at subduction zones relieve tectonic stress over periods ranging from days to years. A pervasive feature in SSE regions worldwide is the presence of high fluid pressures in the subducting slab, which are thought to fluctuate during SSEs through the fault-valving action of an impermeable layer at the plate interface. Yet, geophysical observations of this fault-valving behaviour remain sparse. Here we show, by applying timelapse receiver function analysis at the Manawatu deep slow slip region, that VP/VS in the top ~7.3 km of the subducting Pacific Plate increases up to 2.40 during inter-SSE periods and decreases down to 2.20 during SSE periods, indicating sustained high fluid pressures across slip cycles. In a ~2 km thick layer above, VP/VS fluctuates in the opposite sense, decreasing to ~1.4 during inter-SSE to >2.0 during SSEs. We interpret these results to indicate a reduction in fluid saturation due to decreased crack density and mineral precipitation between SSE cycles, followed by increased crack density and fluid saturation induced by slip on the subduction thrust. Our work shows that this thin layer relieves high fluid pressures in the subducting slab by acting as a valve.
Quantification of Individual and Interactive Effects of Some Antioxidants on Drought Tolerance in Cuminum cyminum L
Authors: Ashori Ali , Gholipoor Manoochehr , Gholami Ahmad , Abbasdokht Hamid
Published: February 2024

There are complex inter- and intra-relations between antioxidants and plant drought tolerance (biomass; DT); Therefore, commonly used techniques, including correlation analysis, is inadequate to describe the relationship between antioxidants and DT. This study aimed to quantify the individual and interactive effects of six antioxidants on cumin DT using a non-linear multiple regression. Field experiments were conducted at two sites in Iran, in 2020. Treatments were the factorial split plot arrangement of magnetic water (conventional and magnetized waters), deficit irrigation (providing 100%, 70%, and 40% of water requirement), and superabsorbent (0, 100 and 200 kg. ha − 1), leading to a wide range of alterations in traits. For comparison purposes, the dataset was normalized. The results showed that SOD and CAT had a decreasing effect on DT; however, anthocyanins slightly alleviated their negative impacts, as anthocyanins, SOD - CAT interaction synergistically promoted DT. Carotenoids did not favor DT individually; however, DT was promoted by carotenoids SOD and carotenoids_anthocyanins_POD interactions. In terms of effecting DT, the antioxidants were ranked from highest to lowest as POD (sum of individual and interactive effects = 2.267), anthocyanins (1.738), carotenoids (1.203), proline (0.613), SOD (-1.75) and CAT (-2.048). The predicted optimal activities/concentrations of antioxidants, obtained by maximizing the regression function, led to 12% increase in DT, which could be used for breeding purposes.
Transformative Analysis of Mental Health in Rural China: The CART Algorithm Approach
Authors: Fu Dongge , He JingZi , Mu Qichen
Published: February 2024

Mental health remains a critical concern in China, particularly for patients with severe psychiatric disorders in rural areas. This study aimed to analyze the health status of Chinese patients with severe psychiatric disorders using the CART algorithm. Mental health is a critical facet of overall well-being, yet understanding and addressing the complexities of severe psychiatric disorders in rural China presents unique challenges. This comprehensive study employs advanced analytical techniques to explore and illuminate multifaceted aspects of mental health, with a specific focus on patients with severe psychiatric disorders, healthcare professionals, and rural residents in China. This study's novelty is in its creative utilization of the CART algorithm to assess the well-being of Chinese individuals grappling with severe psychiatric conditions. This cutting-edge data analysis method opens up a potential path for enhancing mental health strategies and optimizing resource allocation. In essence, this study offers a holistic examination of mental health in rural China, encompassing various dimensions, from predictive elements to the challenges faced by healthcare professionals. Its findings aim to inform the development of effective mental health strategies and resource allocation, enhancing the overall well-being of individuals grappling with severe psychiatric disorders in this region. The government and relevant authorities are recommended to ensure their physical and mental health. The lack of mental health information in rural China also negatively impacts patients' behavior in seeking and using medical services. Thus, measures to promote different forms of mental health education are proposed. In conclusion, the treatment of patients with severe mental illness is crucial to the physical and mental health of millions of people.
The moderating role of corruption in the oil price-economic growth relationship in an oil-dependent economy: Evidence from Bootstrap ARDL with a Fourier Function
Authors: David Joseph , Abu Nurudeen , Owolabi Akintola
Published: February 2024

This study employs the recently proposed bootstrap autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) model augmented with a Fourier function and the dynamic ARDL simulation procedures to examine whether the oil price-economic growth relationship is dependent on the level of corruption in an oil-dependent economy. Using Nigerian quarterly data during the 1996Q1-2021Q4 period, the results of the bounds-testing present evidence for cointegration between the variables. In addition, the results indicate that oil price and corruption are growth-enhancing, but the effect of oil price on growth is contingent on the level of corruption. Moreover, evidence suggests that the marginal effect of oil price on economic growth varies with the level of corruption; the lower the level of corruption, the higher the growth-enhancing effect of oil price on economic growth, and vice versa. The dynamic ARDL simulations plots demonstrate the significant increase (decrease) in predicted growth in the short-term due to a counterfactual rise in the price of oil price (corruption), which gradually deflates (increase) after the shock in the long-term. Therefore, policies geared toward diversifying the economy away from oil, reducing corruption in the oil and gas industry and the security sector, improving agricultural output, and reducing unemployment rate are recommended to enhance growth.
JEL Classification: C15, C22, O4, O43, O13
Extraterrestrial Organic Matter: An Introduction
Authors: Yesiltas Mehmet , Kebukawa Yoko
Published: February 2024

Extraterrestrial organic matter forms in a variety of locations in space through different mechanisms. Its nature, distribution, formation mechanisms and locations are of particular interest. Some organic molecules can even be considered as key players for the emergence of life. Although new organic species are continuously detected in the interstellar media, Solar System bodies, and extraterrestrial materials, their formation and evolution are still not fully understood. Ground-based and space observations can detect organic matter in different objects with a range of complexity and diversity, while laboratory investigations of astromaterials allow detailed characterization of extraterrestrial organic matter with high precision. This issue reviews different aspects of extraterrestrial organic matter, including its origin, evolution, diversity, and delivery.
Examining the Business Judgement Rule in the SOE Bank Haircut
Authors:   School of Law and International Studies, Unversitas Prasetiya Mulya BSD City Kavling Edutown I.1, Jl. BSD Raya Utama No.1, BSD City, Kec. Pagedangan, Kabupaten Tangerang, Banten 15339, Indonesia., Putri Tavanya Shaliha
Published: February 2024

Restructured non-performing loans by partially or fully cutting off the customer's credit were also known as a haircut. The haircut method commonly used for dealing with the customer's deb considering their financial status and ability to repay. However, the execution of a haircut policy is always faced with difficulties, mainly if the procedure is applied to state-owned banks (SOE) in Indonesia. This was due to the interpretation of the concept of Indonesian BUMN’s (state-owned enterprises) wealth which states that all wealth owned by BUMN is part of the state's wealth. A different practices applied in Malaysia which carries out privatization by separating Government Linked Companies (GLC) assets from state assets. As a result, this research examined the dimension of directors' accountability to the state's wealth concerning debt write-offs or a haircut in Indonesia and Malaysia using the Business Judgment Rule doctrine. This study used a normative juridical analysis methodology with a statutory approach in Indonesia and Malaysia. The results of this study indicates that the haircut policy is detrimental to state-owned banks, based on these findings, with certain conditions that apply, the directors can be released from the responsibility for using the Business Judgment Rule doctrine.
Corporations’ Adaptation of Green Strategies in the EU: Transformation of Oil and Gas Companies
Authors: Bartalos Éva
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study to assess the adaptation of the oil and gas companies’ green strategies under the influence of ambitious EU’s and Paris Agreement’s climate initiatives. The primary aim is to elaborate more on the literature which were reviewed to provide analytical framework for the green transformation of the oil and gas companies and highlight how could they be applied in the above-mentioned research scheme. Furthermore, the study reveals at what extent the EU policies are affecting sustainable strategies of oil and gas companies compared to those entities which are outside of the EU. At this phase of the research 6 companies have been already analyzed: Orsted, Neste, Shell, British Petroleum and OMV and PKN Orlen. These companies are clustered according to their pace and maturity in green transformation. In the next phase of the research these companies are going to be grouped by their spendings on green projects, and their maturity in the green transformation will be categorized based on the portion of the green capital expenditures and divestment of carbon-heavy products.
Tourism Marketing & Economic Sustainability of Tourist Destinations: Perspectives of Bale Mountains National Park
Authors: Aman Eliyas Ebrahim , Omer Amana , Papp-Váry Árpád Ferenc
Published: February 2024

The economic sustainability of tourist destinations is crucial for the long-term success and growth of the tourism sector. In this regard, tourism marketing plays a great role in fostering economic growth and ensuring long-term resilience. The study focused on national parks in an effort to determine how tourism marketing affects the economic sustainability of the parks. Mixed research, in line with explanatory and descriptive research designs, was applied to achieve the aim of the study. A sample of 143 was collected from employees of the national park and small and medium-sized enterprises working in the park using the census sampling technique. The study revealed that tourism marketing has a significant impact on the economic sustainability of the national park, with price, place, and promotion having a high correlation with the economic sustainability of the tourism destination, while product has a moderate relationship. Furthermore, the regression result shows that independent variables have a significant impact on the economic sustainability of the study area. This implies that tourism marketing could act as an enabler for the economic sustainability and well-being of tourist destinations.
Ageismus unter den Studenten: innen in der österreichischen undungarischen Grenzregion
Authors: Pakai Dorottya , Obádovics Csilla
Published: February 2024

Die wachsende Zahl älterer Menschen wird als soziale und wirtschaft­liche Herausforderung wahrgenommen. Negative Generati­onseinstellungen sind zu beobachten. Aus diesem Grund wird die Bewältigung und Verringerung des Phänomens Ageismus immer mehr an Bedeutung gewinnen. Ziel des Artikels ist, das Ausmaß von Ageismus unter österreichischen und ungarischen StudentInnen in der Grenzregion zu untersuchen. Daraus wird folgende Forschungsfrage formuliert. Inwieweit ist Ageismus unter den StudentInnen in der österreichisch-ungarischen Grenzregion vorhanden und in welchem Verhältnis steht das Ausmaß zueinander? Zur Beantwortung der Forschungsfrage wurde eine quantitative Online-Umfrage durchgeführt. Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass Ageismus in der österreichisch-ungarischen Grenz­region präsent ist. Es konnte ein signifikanter Unterschied bezüglich des Aus­maßes von Ageismus unter den österreichischen und ungarischen StudentInnen in der Grenzregion festgestellt werden. Allerdings ist das Ausmaß unter den österreichischen Studierenden in der Grenzregion im Vergleich zu den ungarischen StudentInnen in der Grenzregion niedriger.
Desenvolvimento profissional e aprendizagem da docência nas narrativas de professores portugueses experientes
Authors: Vieira Marilandi Maria Mascarello , Ferreira Fernando Ilídio
Published: February 2024

O desenvolvimento profissional docente é um processo que ocorre em ciclos contínuos ao longo da vida. Assim, o artigo sintetiza os resultados de investigação realizada num estágio de pós-doutoramento cujo objetivo foi analisar como professores portugueses experientes narram seu processo de desenvolvimento profissional, identificando as fontes que lhes proporcionaram o conhecimento de professor. Quanto à abordagem, caracteriza-se como pesquisa qualitativa, de campo, realizada com cinco professores que atuam em duas instituições de ensino em cursos técnicos de educação profissional de nível técnico e superior por meio de narrativas biográficas. Concluiu-se que o ingresso na profissão ocorreu de forma circunstancial. As principais fontes de conhecimento são a experiência na área de formação e os professores referenciais e, em relação aos sentimentos sobre a carreira docente, expressam motivação com a profissão advinda das relações que estabelecem com os alunos e do reconhecimento pelo trabalho realizado.
Educação de mulheres ao longo dos séculos XIX e XX
Authors: Marques Tércia Maria Souza de Moura , Praxedes Ana Luiza Pires de Medeiros
Published: February 2024

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Ciprofloxacin and Norfloxacin Hybrid Compounds: Potential Anticancer
Agents
Authors: Peter Sijongesonke , Aderibigbe Blessing A.
Published: February 2024

Background::

The concept of utilizing drug repurposing/repositioning in the development
of hybrid molecules is an important strategy in drug discovery. Fluoroquinolones, a class of
antibiotics, have been reported to exhibit anticancer activities. Although anticancer drug development
is achieving some positive outcomes, there is still a need to develop new and effective anticancer
drugs. Some limitations associated with most of the available anticancer drugs are drug resistance
and toxicity, poor bio-distribution, poor solubility, and lack of specificity, which hamper
their therapeutic outcomes.

Objectives::

Fluoroquinolones, a known class of antibiotics, have been explored by hybridizing
them with other pharmacophores and evaluating their anticancer activity in silico and in vitro.
Hence, this review provides an update on new anticancer drugs development containing fluoroquinolones
moiety, Ciprofloxacin and Norfloxacin between 2020 and 2023, their structural relationship
activity, and the future strategies to develop potent chemotherapeutic agents.

Methods::

Fluoroquinolones were mostly hybridized via the N-4 of the piperazine ring on position
C-7 with known pharmacophores characterized, followed by biological studies to evaluate their anticancer
activity.

Results::

The hybrid molecules displayed promising and interesting anticancer activities. Factors
such as the nature of the linker, the presence of electron-withdrawing groups, nature, and position
of the substituents influenced the anticancer activity of the synthesized compounds

Conclusion::

The hybrids were selective towards some cancer cells. However, further in vivo
studies are needed to fully understand their mode of action
Assessment of POFA-Pervious Concrete Performance with Oil Palm Shells as a Partial Aggregate Replacement
Authors: Jaafar Mohd Faizal Md. , Muthusamy Khairunisa
Published: February 2024

Introduction

In Malaysia today, periods of excessive rain can result in flooding poses a significant challenge. The existing drainage system struggles to manage the wastewater effectively. In addressing the persistent issue of flooding in Malaysia, this issue’s solution was recommended to introduce pervious concrete (PC). Recognizing the urgency of finding sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions, the present study focuses on the application of PC as a potential remedy that allows water to infiltrate through its porous structure.

Aims

Despite the potential benefits of PC, there exists a notable gap in the understanding of its performance, especially when incorporating oil palm shells (OPS) as a partial aggregate replacement in POFA-pervious concrete (PPC). OPS is an agricultural waste material abundant in palm oil-producing regions, remarkably in Malaysia. This research aims to bridge this gap to evaluate the performance of PPC and PPC with OPS. By addressing the performance of PPC at different OPS replacement levels and curing ages, the lack of such detailed investigations in the existing body of knowledge underscores the novelty and importance of this present research.

Methods

Experimental tests were conducted to evaluate the performance of PPC and PPC incorporating OPS comprising density, water absorption, void content, and compressive strength. All the tests were conducted at 7 and 28 days after the hardened concrete was cured in water.

Results

The results revealed that as the OPS content increased, the compressive strength of PPC with OPS decreased but was significantly higher than recommended in the standard. Conversely, the reduction in strength was accompanied by an improvement in water absorption, making PPC encompassing OPS suitable for applications. The void content of the PPC increased with higher OPS replacement levels, indicating an increase in porosity. This increase in porosity led to a decrease in the density of the PPC incorporating OPS.

Conclusion

The findings of this research suggest that the incorporation of OPS as an aggregate replacement in PPC can offer advantages in terms of water absorption. The inclusion of 10% OPS significantly and positively affects the performance of PPC.