bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrated use of the CA-Markov model and the Trends.Earth module to enhance the assessment of land cover degradation: Application in the Upper Zambezi Basin, southern Africa
Authors: Zimba Henry M. , Banda Kawawa E. , Mbewe Stephen , Nyambe Imasiku A.
Published: May 2024

This study aims to demonstrate the potential of assessing future land cover degradation status by combining the forecasting capabilities of the Cellular-Automata-Markov chain (CA-Markov) models in Idris Selva with the land cover degradation (LCD) model in the Trends.Earth module. The study focuses on the upper Zambezi Basin (UZB) in southern Africa, which is one of the regions with high rates of land degradation globally. Landsat satellite imagery is utilised to generate historical (1993–2023) land cover and land use (LCLU) maps for the UZB, while the European Space Agency Climate Change Initiative (ESA CCI) global LCLU maps are obtained from the Trends.Earth module. The CA-Markov chain model is employed to predict future LCLU changes between 2023 and 2043. The LCD model in the Trends.Earth module in QGIS 3.34 is then used to assess the historical and forecasted land cover degradation status. The findings reveal that land cover degradation maps produced from local LCLU classifications provide more detailed information compared to those produced from the ESA CCI global LCLU product. Between 2023 and 2043, the UZB is predicted to experience a net reduction of approximately 3.2 million hectares of forest cover, with an average annual reduction rate of -0.13%. In terms of land cover degradation, the UZB is forecasted to remain generally stable, with 87% and 96% of the total land cover area expected to be stable during the periods 2023–2033 and 2033–2043, respectively, relative to the base years 2023 and 2033. Reduction in forest cover due to the expansion of grassland, human settlements, and cropland is projected to drive land cover degradation, while improvements in forest cover are anticipated through the conversion of grassland and cropland into forested areas. By leveraging the predictive power of the CA-Markov model and the capabilities of the LCD model, as evidenced in this study, valuable information can be effectively obtained for monitoring land cover degradation. This information can then be used to implement targeted interventions that align with the objective of realising the United Nations' land degradation neutral world target by 2030.
In Vivo Mapping of the Chemical Exchange Relayed Nuclear Overhauser Effect using Deep Magnetic Resonance Fingerprinting (rNOE-MRF)
Authors: Power Inbal , Rivlin Michal , Zaiss Moritz , Navon Gil , Perlman Or
Published: May 2024

Noninvasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the relayed nuclear Overhauser effect (rNOE) constitutes a promising approach for gaining biological insights into various pathologies, including brain cancer, kidney injury, ischemic stroke, and liver disease. However, rNOE imaging is time-consuming and prone to biases stemming from the water T1 and the semisolid magnetization transfer (MT) contrasts. Here, we developed a rapid rNOE quantification approach, combining magnetic resonance fingerprinting (MRF) acquisition with deep-learning-based reconstruction. The method was systematically validated using tissue-mimicking phantoms, wild-type mice (n=7), and healthy human volunteers (n=5). In vitro rNOE parameter maps were highly correlated with ground truth (r>0.98, p<0.001). Simultaneous mapping of the rNOE and the semisolid MT exchange parameters in mice and humans were in agreement with previously reported literature values. Whole-brain 3D parameter mapping in humans took less than 5 minutes (282 sec for acquisition and less than 2 sec for reconstruction). With its demonstrated ability to rapidly extract quantitative molecular maps, deep rNOE-MRF can potentially serve as a valuable tool for the characterization and detection of molecular abnormalities in vivo.
Six IL-8 gene polymorphisms and the entire cancer susceptibility according to a comprehensive analysis especially in prostate cancer
Authors: Zhang Xiao , Sun Jian , Ding Xiqi
Published: May 2024

Background: Interleukin-8 (IL-8) primarily regulates cytotoxicity- and local immune response, antibody production, cellular immunity, and delayed hypersensitive inflammation. Emerging evidences suggest that IL-8 polymorphisms are strongly linked to various cancer risks, however, above correlation requires further confirmation.
Methods and Results: We screened and analyzed the aforementioned relationship from relevant published sources including Embase, PubMed, Chinese database, Google Scholar, and Web of Science till Jun 25, 2023. Associated strength analysis was employed through odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. In addition, serum IL-8 expression about prostate cancer patients was detected by ELISA method. In all, we reviewed 104 case-control investigations, involving 26,029 cancer incidences and 31,577 healthy controls. Firstly, we demonstrated a strong correlation between the +2767 polymorphism and augmented cancer risk. Additionally, the +781 polymorphism elicited a strong increase in cancer risk among Caucasians. However, based on our cancer type subgroup analysis, there had markedly reduced association for hepatocellular carcinoma. Then, enhanced correlation was observed in all cancer samples for -251 polymorphism. Besides, we also revealed comparable results among in the Mixed/Asian populations, gastric cancer, lung cancer, hospital-based subgroup, and genotype method subgroup. Finally, -251 individuals carried AA/AC genotype had higher expression of IL-8 in serum than carrying CC individuals from prostate cancer patients.
Conclusion: Three IL-8 polymorphisms (+2767, +781 and -251) were intricately linked to cancer risk. Additional, -251 polymorphism may influence the expression of IL-8 in prostate cancer patients. Therefore, these polymorphisms may be excellent candidates for tumor biomarkers in the future.
Frustratingly Easy Jailbreak of Large Language Models via Output Prefix Attacks
Authors: Wang Yiwei , Chen Muhao , Peng Nanyun , Chang Kai-Wei
Published: May 2024

Recent research finds that even carefully aligned large language models (LLMs) can be manipulated with malicious intent, leading to unintended behaviors, known as "jailbreaks". Being aware of the LLMs' misalignments under specific jailbreak attacks helps us to build safer LLMs. Previous work on jailbreak attacks primarily focused on optimizing adversarial prompts through costly training or improving decoding configurations via parameter search. Both kinds of jailbreak attacks are complicated and time-consuming. Different from them, in this work, we propose two output prefix attack-based jailbreak approaches that can effectively disrupt model alignment: OPRA and OPRATEA. OPRA enforces the output prefix of LLMs to follow a "fuse" and the user's target. Additionally, OPRATEA conceals the malicious target within the input prompt to circumvent the "Maginot Line", a standalone module in the LLM system that focuses on detecting malicious inputs. Both methods are incredibly simple: they do not require any training or parameter search; the setting up of our attack on any LLM only requires a single inference; the attack with any input only requires a string replacement. OPRA and OPRATEA increase the misalignment rate of LLAMA2-7B-CHAT, LLAMA2-13B-CHAT, LLAMA3-8B-INSTRUCT, and GPT-3.5-TURBO, outperforming the state-of-the-art attack with 1000 x lower computational cost.
The Effect of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy on Reducing Craving in Populations with Substance Use Disorder: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Martínez-Fernández Diana Emilia , Garzón-Partida Andrea P. , Aguilar-García Irene G. , García-Estrada Joaquín , Luquin Sonia , Fernández-Quezada David
Published: May 2024

Substance use disorder (SUD) has a significant negative impact on individuals and communities worldwide. It is estimated that approximately 5.5% of the global population aged 15 to 64 has used drugs in the last year, without any proven cure. In the 1980s, the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing method (EMDR) was developed to treat Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). However, its effectiveness in reducing desire during withdrawal has not been demonstrated so far. Thus, a systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to gain more insight into the therapeutic benefits of EMDR therapy. The search was performed on PubMed and Web of Science, and studies that used EMDR were selected, following the preferential information guidelines for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA). The results indicated that EMDR therapy significantly reduced the desire to consume drugs. Using the fixed effects model, the standard median differential (SMD) was -0.7243, with a 95% confidence interval ranging from -0.9960 to -0.4527 (z = -5.23, p < 0.0001). The random effects model revealed a more significant effect (SMD = -0.7985), with a 95% confidence interval ranging from -1.2314 to -0.3656 (z = -3.62, p = 0. 0003). Based on these findings, it can be concluded that EMDR therapy is effective in inhibiting the desire to consume drugs.
Plastic deformation of dry, fine-grained olivine aggregates under high pressures
Authors: Silber Reynold E. , Girard Jennifer , Chen Haiyan , Karato Shun-ichiro
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the effect of pressure on diffusion creep of dry San Carlos and synthetic (prepared by sol-gel method) olivine. We prepared dry (water content <9 ppm wt) fine-grained (<1 μm grain size) olivine and deformed the samples (both San Carlos and sol-gel olivine) in the same sample assembly under high pressure (P = 2.9–8.8 GPa) and moderate temperatures (T = 980–1250 K) at a fixed strain rate. The evolution of the sample’s strength was studied using radial X-ray diffraction from various diffraction planes. We found that San Carlos and sol-gel olivine show similar rheological behavior (when normalized to the same grain size). Stress estimated by the radial X-ray diffraction increases with time and initially shows similar values for all diffraction planes. In many cases, stress values start to depend on the diffraction planes in the later stage, and time dependence becomes minor. The microstructural observations show that grain size increases during an experiment. The results are interpreted using a theory of radial X-ray diffraction and the theoretical models of diffusion and dislocation creep. We conclude that the initial stage of deformation is by diffusion creep, but deformation in the later stage is by dislocation creep. For dislocation creep, our results are in reasonable agreement with previous low-temperature dislocation creep results after correcting the temperature effect. For diffusion creep, we obtain an activation volume of 7.0 ± 2.4 cm3/mol that is substantially smaller than the values reported on dislocation creep but agrees well with the results on grain growth. By comparing the present results on dry olivine with the previous results on wet (water-saturated) olivine, we found that water enhances diffusion creep but only modestly compared to dislocation creep. The difference in the pressure and water content dependence between diffusion and dislocation creep has an important influence on the dominant deformation mechanisms of olivine in the upper mantle.
Pengaruh Bobot Awal Berbeda Terhadap Bobot Organ Dalam, Organ Luar Dan Kesehatan Kelinci Hycole
Authors: Nurwahyuni Eka , Minarti Sri , Nurfadila Agista Lutfi , Widyastuti Wahyu Indah
Published: May 2024

Kelinci Hycole merupakan kelinci yang memiliki produktivitas yang tinggi dan juga adaptasi yang baik untuk pengembangan di Indonesia. Kelinci dapat dimanfaatkan untuk diambil karkas sebagai daging olahan yang memiliki gizi yang tinggi. Selain karkas, kelinci juga diambil non karkas sebagai konsumsi seperti organ dalam. Pertumbuhan kelinci dapat dipengaruhi oleh beberapa faktor yaitu lingkungan, bobot badan, dan penyakit. Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk mengetahui untuk mengevaluasi bobot organ dalam dan organ luar serta kesehatan pada kelinci Hycole dengan bobot awal yang berbeda. Penelitian ini menggunakan bobot kelinci dibagi dalam 3 kelompok yang berbeda yaitu kelompok besar dengan bobot badan berkisar 2005-2315g, kelompok sedang dengan bobot badan berkisar 1695-1900g dan kelompok kecil dengan bobot badan berkisar 1540-1640g. Hasil penelitian yang didapat adalah bobot badan awal kelinci memberikan pengaruh (P< 0.01) terhadap bobot hati dan saluran pencernaan. Namun bobot hati dan jantung tidak dipengaruhi oleh bobot awal kelinci. Hal ini dapat dipengaruhi oleh fungsi dari organ pencernaan memiliki adaptasi untuk kerja yang lebih berat sehingga organ juga bertambah bobotnya. Bobot organ luar kelinci juga dipengaruhi oleh bobot badan kelinci. Kelinci dengan bobot badan kecil mudah terserang penyakit daripada kelinci besar, hal ini disebabkan kelinci kecil memiliki imun yang lemah dibanding kelinci besar. Kesimpulan yang dapat diambil dari penelitian ini adalah bobot organ dalam (hati dan saluran pencernaan) dan organ luar (kepala dan kaki) dapat dipengaruhi oleh bobot badan awal kelinci. Kelinci dengan bobot awal yang besar memberikan bobot organ dalam dan organ luar yang besar. Penyakit kelinci pada umumnya yang terjadi pada bobot kelinci kecil dan sedang adalah diare dan scabies. Hal ini perlu penanganan lebih lanjut agar tidak mempengaruhi produktivitas.Â
Penggunaan Tepung Campuran Daun Indigofera (Indigofera zollingeriana) dan Ampas Tahu Fermentasi Dengan Inokulum Waretha Sebagai Sumber Protein Dalam Ransum Puyuh Petelur
Authors: Mirzah Mirzah , Hellyward James , Fajrona Kadran , Herwanto Taufik
Published: May 2024

Bungkil kedelai merupakan pakan sumber protein nabati dalam ransum unggas yang diperoleh dari impor. Perlu upaya mencari bahan pakan alternatif sebagai substitusinya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pemberian tepung Daun Indigofera dan Ampas Tahu Fermentasi (DIATF) dalam ransum terhadap performa produksi puyuh dan kualitas telur puyuh. Penelitian dilakukan menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan 5 perlakuan dan 4 kali ulangan. Perlakuan yang diberikan adalah level penggunaan tepung DIATF dalam ransum yang terdiri dari R0 = ransum tanpa penggunaan DIATF ( kontrol), R1 = 4% DIATF, R2 = 8% DIATF, R3= 12% DIATF dan R4 = 16% DIATF dalam ransum. Peubah yang diamati adalah konsusi ransum, produksi telur, masa telur dan konversi ransum, kolesterol, lemak, dan warna kuning telur puyuh. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perlakuan tidak berpengaruh nyata (P>0,05) terhadap konsumsi ransum, produksi telur harian, berat telur, massa telur dan konversi ransum. Namun menunjukkan pengaruh yang Â sangat nyata (P<0,01) terhadap kolesterol kuning telur Â puyuh dan lemak kuning telur puyuh,Â  sertaÂ Â  berpengaruh nyata (P<0,05)Â  terhadap warna kuning telur puyuh. Dari penelitian dapat disimpulkan bahwa penggunaan DIATF sampai 16% atau menggantikan 80% bungkil kedelai sebagai sumber protein dalam ransum dapat dilakukan tanpa menurunkan performa produksi puyuh petelur. Pada kondisi ini diperoleh konsumsi ransum 21,09 (gram/ekor/hari), produksi telur harian 76,43 %, berat telur 9,02 gram/butir, produksi massa telur 6,77 (gram/ekor/hari), dan konversi ransum sebesar 3,17, serta dapat juga menurunkan kadar kolesterol dan lemak kuning telur puyuh.
NK and T-lymphocyte Kinetics Predict Outcome in Myeloma Patients Treated With Elotuzumab, Lenalidomide Plus Dexamethasone
Authors: SUZUKI KAZUHITO , MATSUMOTO MORIO , HIRAMATSU YASUSHI , TAKEZAKO NAOKI , TAMAI YOTARO , SUZUKI KENSHI
Published: May 2024

Background/Aim: Elotuzumab, an anti-SLAMF7 monoclonal antibody, can enhance immune activity via elevated antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity and reduced SLAMF7+CD8+CD57+ regulatory T-cells (Tregs). This multicenter observational study investigated the kinetics of lymphocytes in myeloma patients treated with elotuzumab, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone (ERd) by two-color flow cytometry using peripheral blood samples. Patients and Methods: Twenty-one patients were included in this study. The median duration of ERd was 22.6 months, and the cutoff time for long-duration ERd was two years. Results: The CD2+CD16+ and CD16+CD57– NK cells were significantly increased over time in the long-duration ERd group compared to those in the short-duration ERd group (p=0.035 and p<0.001). The CD8+ and CD16–CD57+ lymphocytes, identified as low-activity NK cells or SLAMF7+ Tregs, were significantly increased in the patients whose ERd outcome was progressive disease (PD) compared to those in the non-PD group (p=0.023 and p<0.001). The mean CD4/CD8 ratio and CD19+ lymphocyte counts in the long-duration ERd group were significantly lower than those in the short-duration ERd group, although the kinetics of them did not change over time (p=0.016 and p=0.011). When the cutoff value of CD4/CD8 ratio was 0.792 according to ROC curves, the two-year time to next treatment (TTNT) in the low CD4/CD8 group was significantly longer than that in the high CD4/CD8 group (80.0% vs. 15.0%, p=0.024). Conclusion: The change in NK cells and CD8+ Tregs predicted long-duration ERd and PD, and maintaining low CD4/8 ratio predicted long TTNT, suggesting that these lymphocyte fractions might be biomarkers for a durable therapeutic effect of ERd in myeloma patients.
Curative Radiotherapy for Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma Stratified by p16 Status, According to the Eighth Edition American Joint Committee on Cancer Staging Manual: A Retrospective Study
Authors: KATANO ATSUTO , MINAMITANI MASANARI , OHIRA SHINGO , YAMASHITA HIDEOMI
Published: May 2024

Background/Aim: The prevalence of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC) is increasing worldwide. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the clinical outcomes of patients with OPSCC undergoing definitive radiotherapy, stratified according to their p16 status. Patients and Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on consecutive patients with OPSCC treated with curative external beam radiotherapy between May 2015 and September 2023. Clinical staging was determined by the eighth edition AJCC staging manual for p16 positive and negative OPSCC. All patients were treated with radiotherapy using a simultaneous integrated boost (SIB) with helical tomotherapy. The fractionation scheme, with or without chemotherapy, for the primary site and nodal lesions consisted of 2 Gy per fraction for a total dose of 70 Gy in 35 fractions over seven weeks. Results: This study included 76 patients with a median age of 66 years. With a median follow-up time of 32.6 months, the 3-year progression-free survival rate was significantly higher in p16 positive patients compared to p16 negative patients (79.6% vs. 42.5%, p<0.001). Concerning 54 patients with p16-positive tumors, the overall survival rates indicated excellent clinical outcomes for stage I, II, and III with results of 100%, 100%, and 88.1%, respectively. Conclusion: This retrospective study revealed the clinical outcomes of patients with OPSCC treated with radical radiotherapy, emphasizing the significance of p16 status. While acknowledging the limitations of the retrospective nature of this study, future prospective studies with larger cohorts and extended follow-up periods are needed to enhance evidence quality.
Comparative Expression Analysis of TP53 Tumor Suppressor and MDM2 Oncogene in Colorectal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: NIOTIS ATHANASIOS , DIMITROULIS DIMITRIOS , SPYROPOULOU DESPOINA , TSIAMBAS EVANGELOS , SARLANIS HELEN , DAVRIS DIMITRIOS , FALIDAS EVANGELOS , KAVANTZAS NIKOLAOS , PESCHOS DIMITRIOS , MANAIOS LOUKAS , KONSTANTINIDIS KONSTANTINOS C.
Published: May 2024

Background/Aim: The tumor protein 53 (TP53) tumor suppressor protein (17p13.1) acts as a significant regulator for the cell cycle normal function. The gene is frequently mutated in colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRC) patients and is associated to poor prognosis and low response rates to chemo-targeted therapy. Our purpose was to correlate TP53 expression with Mouse Double Minute 2 Homolog (MDM2), a proto-oncogene (12q14.3) and a major negative regulator in the TP53-MDM2 auto-regulatory pathway. Materials and Methods: A total of forty (n=40) colorectal adenocarcinoma (CRC) cases were included in this study. An immunohistochemistry-based assay was implemented by using anti-TP53 and anti-MDM2 antibodies in the corresponding tissue sections. Additionally, a digital image analysis assay was implemented for objectively measuring TP53/MDM2 immunostaining intensity levels. Results: TP53 protein overexpression was detected in 27/40 (67.5%), whereas MDM2 overexpression in 28/40 (70%) cases. Interestingly, in 21/40 (52.5%) cases, a combined TP53/MDM2 co-expression was detected, whereas in 6/40 (15%), a combined loss of expression was identified (overall co-expression: p=0.119). p53 overexpression was significantly correlated to grade of the examined cases (p=0.001), whereas MDM2 to stage and max diameter of the malignancies (p=0.001 and 0.024, respectively). Conclusion: TP53/MDM2 over expression is a frequent and significant genetic event in CRCs associated with an aggressive biological behavior, as a result of increased dedifferentiation grade and advanced stage/elevated tumor volume, respectively. MDM2 oncogene overactivation combined with mutated and overexpressed TP53 is observed in sub-groups of patients leading to specific gene/protein signatures – targets for personalized chemotherapeutic approaches.
A Multicenter Analysis of Short-term and Long-term Outcomes Following Laparoscopic Multivisceral Resection for Advanced Colorectal Cancer
Authors: NAMBARA SHO , NAKANISHI RYOTA , NONAKA KENTARO , FUJIMOTO YOSHIAKI , HU QINGJIANG , NAKANOKO TOMONORI , SUGIYAMA MASAHIKO , OTA MITSUHIKO , KIMURA YASUE , OKI EIJI , TOH YASUSHI , YOSHIZUMI TOMOHARU
Published: May 2024

Background/Aim: Recent research has demonstrated that laparoscopic multivisceral resection (MVR) for advanced colorectal cancer is safe, practicable, and yields satisfactory oncological results, which is in line with the growing usage of laparoscopic surgery. The effectiveness of laparoscopic MVR is still debatable, though. The goal of this study was to compare the short- and long-term results of patients with advanced colorectal cancer treated with open MVR with laparoscopic procedures. Patients and Methods: Data on 3,571 consecutive patients hospitalized at the Kyushu University National Kyushu Cancer Center for colorectal cancer surgery between 2004 and 2020 were gathered retrospectively. In the end, 84 individuals with advanced colorectal cancer who had a colectomy with MVR were examined. We evaluated invasiveness in terms of complications, blood loss, and operating time. Recurrence-free survival rates and overall 5-year survival were among the oncological outcomes. Results: Of the 84 patients examined, 29 underwent laparoscopic treatment, and 55 underwent open treatment. The laparoscopic surgery group experienced shorter hospital stays (15 vs. 18 days, p<0.05) and much less blood loss (median volume: 167 vs. 1,058 g, p<0.005) than the open surgery group. Following the exclusion of patients with stage IV colorectal cancer from the study (groups undergoing laparoscopic surgery, n=25; open surgery, n=38), the groups displayed comparable pathologic results and no discernible variations in either the 5-year overall survival (p=0.87) or recurrence-free survival (p=0.86). Conclusion: In certain individuals with advanced colorectal cancer, a laparoscopic method of manipulation with MVR may be less invasive than an open method without compromising the prognosis.
Post-treatment Neutrophil/Lymphocyte Ratio Is a Prognostic Factor in Head and Neck Cancers Treated With Nivolumab
Authors: IWASA YOH-ICHIRO , KITOH RYOSUKE , YOKOTA YOH , HORI KENTARO , KASUGA MARIKO , KOBAYASHI TAKASHI , KANDA SHINTARO , TAKUMI YUTAKA
Published: May 2024

Background/Aim: Inflammation and nutrition-based biomarkers, such as the neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet/lymphocyte ratio (PLR), lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (LMR), C-reactive protein/albumin ratio (CAR), prognostic nutritional index (PNI), systemic immune inflammation index (SII), and systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), have prognostic value for several types of malignancies. Markers that precisely reflect the prognosis of patients with head and neck cancers (HNCs) treated with immune-checkpoint inhibitors remain unclear. This retrospective study aimed to investigate the prognostic value of hematological markers before and after treatment with nivolumab in patients with recurrent or metastatic HNC (RM-HNC). Patients and Methods: We evaluated the clinical data of 44 patients with recurrent/metastatic head and neck squamous cell carcinoma treated with nivolumab between April 2017 and April 2023 at Shinshu University Hospital. Values of hematological biomarkers (NLR, LMR, PLR, CAR, PNI, SII, and SIRI) were calculated before and 4-6 weeks after nivolumab initiation. Receiver operating characteristic curves were constructed to determine the cutoff values of pre- and post-treatment markers for overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Results: Among all pre- and post-treatment markers, post-treatment NLR showed the highest area under the curve (AUC=0.702). A high post-treatment NLR (cutoff value, 4.01) was associated with a poor OS (p=0.027) and a tendency for shorter PFS (p=0.117). Multivariate analysis showed that a high post-treatment NLR was significantly associated with poor OS (p=0.026). Conclusion: A high post-treatment NLR was associated with poor response to nivolumab in head and neck cancers.
Estimating Inhaled Nitrogen Dioxide from the Human Biometric Response
Authors: Ruwali Shisir , Fernando Bharana , Talebi Shawhin , Wijeratne Lakitha , Waczak John , Madusanka Prabuddha M. H. , Lary David J. , Sadler John , Lary Tatiana , Lary Matthew , Aker Adam
Published: May 2024

Breathing clean air is crucial for maintaining good human health. The air we inhale can significantly impact our physical and mental well-being, influenced by parameters such as particulate matter and gases (e.g. carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide). Building on previous research that explored the effects of particulate matter (PM) in specific environments, analyzed using biometric indicators and machine learning models; this work focuses on the effects and estimation of inhaled nitrogen dioxide (NO2). This study involved a cyclist equipped with sensors to monitor various biometric parameters. In addition, an electric car following the cyclist measured the ambient NO2 levels using an onboard sensor. A total of 329 biometric variables have been taken into account, of which 320 biometric variables are cognitive responses extracted using an electroencephalogram (EEG) and 9 biometric variables are physiological responses extracted using several sensors. Inhaled NO2 levels are first estimated initially by making use of all 329 variables, then using 9 physiological responses and finally using only 6 of the 9 physiological responses. The study also uses a ranking method to pinpoint which biometric variables most significantly estimate inhaled NO2 levels. Furthermore, it investigates the linear and non-linear relationship between certain variables and inhaled NO2. The general precision of the prediction for the data set was moderate, as indicated by the coefficient of determination (R2) and the root mean square error (RMSE) between the true and estimated values of NO2 to be 0.35 and 5.41 ppb, respectively, in the test set. A higher accuracy in the prediction of lower values of NO2 levels was qualitatively observed using a scatter diagram and a Quantile-Quantile plot where the data were more plentiful. For more robust conclusions, additional data and refined machine learning models are necessary.
Prevention of Drug Resistant Epilepsy and Developmental Epileptic Encephalopathy: Preventative Vigabatrin Treatment in Tuberous Sclerosis Complex and the Case for Fenfluramine Treatment of Children with Newly Diagnosed Dravet Syndrome
Authors: Pong Amanda , Klein Pavel
Published: May 2024

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is caused by mutations of hamartin (TSC1) or tuberin (TSC2) resulting in disinhibition of the mTOR pathway of cellular proliferation and differentiation and severe neurocognitive impairment, intractable epilepsy and tumors. Epilepsy develops in ~90% folllowed by drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE). Recently, prevention of DRE and developmental encephalopathy was shown to be possible in TSC using early administration of vigabatrin. For the first time, medical treatment successfully prevented epilepsy and reduced neurocognitive and behavioural co-morbidities. The crucial difference between the preventive and standard treatment groups was the timing of treatment initiation, not the type of the intervention. This paradigm can be extended to patients with other genetic or acquired conditions, including Dravet Syndrome (DS), a severe developmental epileptic encephalopathy (DEE) with DRE and high mortality, due to a de novo mutation of the gene SCN1A which codes for the sodium channel protein a subunit Nav1.1. Infants usually develop normally until their first seizure, commonly between 2-15 months. This is followed by DRE and developmental regression. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of adjunctive fenfluramine treatment in DS reduced median convulsive seizure frequency by 55.7% over placebo at 0.7 mg/kg/day. 50% of children had 75% seizure frequency reduction, 8% had convulsive seizure freedom versus 0% with placebo, and 18% had only one convulsive seizure versus 0% with placebo. Other pivotal studies showed similar results and efficacy was sustained in for <3 years. Fenfluramine is now a first-line therapy for DS. Given the existence of a remarkably effective treatment fenfluramine for Dravet, preventive therapy presents itself as a natural extension for its application. We hypothesize that not only may seizure outcomes such as time to second seizure and evolution to DRE be positively impacted, but moreover, protective effects on mortality and cognitive outcomes may also be seen.
Promoting nonexercise physical activity in type 2 diabetics: perceived behaviour change needs and implementation of mHealth intervention (Preprint)
Authors: Aittasalo Minna , Tokola Kari , Vähä-Ypyä Henri , Husu Pauliina , Mänttäri Ari , Vasankari Tommi , Sievänen Harri
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Physical activity (PA) has an important role in the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Interventions with mobile-based technology (mHealth) seem promising in PA promotion but their behavioural foundation is often vague, and the implementation is seldom reported.

OBJECTIVE

This paper examines perceived behaviour change needs and implementation of mHealth approach in increasing nonexercise PA in T2 diabetics.

METHODS

A three-arm mHealth intervention was conducted in primary care to promote daily walking and other nonexercise PA in T2 diabetics. Information on perceived behaviour change needs was collected with a modified COM-B questionnaire before the intervention from a separate sample of T2 diabetics (n=25) and at the intervention baseline (n=116). Implementation evaluation focused on the fidelity and acceptability of the main arm of the mHealth intervention (n=39). The 6-month intervention included 24-hour accelerometer-use, smartphone application providing cloud-computed personal feedback on accelerometer-measured PA, PA leaflet, YouTube video on walking, and individual counseling with three face-to-face sessions and four telephone contacts. Data on fidelity was accumulated during the intervention through participant-specific counseling cards and cloud computing. Data on acceptability was collected with a questionnaire in the end of the intervention. Data were mostly analyzed descriptively.

RESULTS

The responses of theT2 diabetics pointed out three items in capability and two items in motivation, which stood out as perceived behaviour change needs. Moreover, the main intervention arm showed good fidelity and acceptability although some challenges were also experienced especially in cloud-computed feedback and accelerometer-application use.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings on behaviour change needs call for additional research since no comparable studies were found. Also, the explanatory value of COM-B model and psychometric properties of COM-B questionnaire in T2 diabetics' nonexercise PA deserve further attention. Based on the findings on fidelity and acceptability the main intervention arm seems applicable to clinical practice. However, the challenges discovered underscore the importance of pre-testing technology-based approaches in interventions promoting PA in T2D population.

CLINICALTRIAL

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04587414
Strategy and Challenges for Turkmenistan’s participation in the Central Asia Integration
Authors: Cheng Xie , Bei Deng
Published: May 2024

After gaining independence, Turkmenistan actively pursued the status of a "permanently neutral state", aiming to leverage a neutral foreign policy for enhanced stability and peace in Central Asia.Turkmenistan has formulated distinct engagement policies at various stages of Central Asian integration, ensuring the country's flexible position in the region based on national interests, neutrality, and the decisions of the supreme Leader. However, Turkmenistan encounters significant practical obstacles in engaging in Central Asian integration due to the uncertain prospects of regional integration and its unitary economic structure. If Turkmenistan can sustain its engagement, strategically adjust its foreign policy, and optimize its economic reforms, it will be able to assume a more significant role in the process of Central Asian integration.
On Syntactic Complexity in English Language
Authors: Zhiqin Zhang
Published: May 2024

English is a language of hypotaxis, which means the language depends on syntactic and lexical devices to form one sentence or sentences. The paper discusses the syntactic relations and illustrates the syntactic complexity with examples. The paper focuses on the ambiguities caused by different factors to highlight the syntactic complexity of English.
El último que apague la luz”: flujos, cambios y continuidades en las políticas migratorias del gobierno de Guillermo Lasso (Ecuador 2021-2023)
Authors: Ramírez Gallegos Jacques Paul
Published: May 2024

En mayo de 2021 asumió la presidencia de Ecuador el banquero Guillermo Lasso luego de dos intentos fallidos de llegar al Palacio de Gobierno. Con su ascenso al poder se reforzó el enfoque neoliberal en dicho país andino y, en materia de movilidad humana, se ha producido un incremento de personas que han empezado a migrar. El presente artículo se centra en el análisis de los flujos migratorios, tanto de ecuatorianos como de extranjeros, así como en las políticas migratorias implementadas en los dos años del actual gobierno poniendo atención en los cambios y continuidades en relación con su antecesor. El texto da cuenta cómo, en tan corto tiempo, ha cambiado el ‘paisaje migratorio’ en Ecuador tanto por el reforzamiento de las políticas neoliberales, el incremento de inseguridad, extorsiones y muertes, así como por el ‘efecto llamado’ debido al cambio de gobierno en Estados Unidos, principal destino de los migrantes. Metodológicamente el artículo se sustenta en los principales hitos y decisiones gubernamentales ocurridos en política migratoria entre el 2021 a 2023, en fuentes estadísticas oficiales y en relatos de migrantes obtenidos de fuentes secundarias.
The Benefits of N Queen Visualizer for Education
Authors: Chaurasia Riya
Published: May 2024

ir own pace. This allows them to actively engage with the material and gain a deeper understanding of the problem-solving process
Simulation Study of Sand Casting by Using Runner & Gates Modification in Gating System
Authors: Savaliya Jaydeep A
Published: May 2024

Abstract: Sand casting remains a prevalent method for manufacturing complex metal components due to its costeffectiveness and versatility. However, optimizing the gating system, particularly through runner riser modification, is crucial for enhancing casting quality and minimizing defects. This study employs computer simulation techniques to investigate the effects of various modifications in the gating system on the solidification behavior and quality of castings. Through numerical simulations using advanced software tools, different configurations of the gating system are analyzed and compared, focusing on parameters such as flow rate, velocity distribution, and solidification patterns. The results reveal insights into the effectiveness of runner riser modification strategies in reducing defects like shrinkage and porosity, thereby improving the overall casting quality. Additionally, the study explores the trade-offs between different modification approaches in terms of cost, complexity, and performance. These findings contribute to the optimization of sand-casting processes, offering practical guidance for engineers and manufacturers aiming to enhance product quality and efficiency.
Experimental Study of Model on Soil Slope Failure Subjected to Artificial Rainfall
Authors: Ghutke Prof. Vishal , Modak Sarika , Saratkar Tejas , Ade Abhijeet , Bodalkar Prashant
Published: May 2024

Abstract: The paper's purpose is to introduce a miniature form of slope for the study of infiltration process under various rainfall conditions. To mimic the infiltration process on a slope, we utilize artificial precipitation by using a sprinkler to model it. system at a rainfall intensity, ie, 100,110,120mm/h. Pore-water pressure (PWP) and displacements are measured by scale, is put in the model at different spots to track alterations. The purpose is to investigate the effects of slope movements on soil water content, pore-water pressures and. movement in both conditions, with and without geonet placement. The research attempts to forecast slop failure initiated by excessive precipitation by continuously observing these measures. From the outcomes, time to first failure can be assessed.
PERAN PEMERINTAH DALAM MENJAGA KETERSEDIAAN BERAS DI PASARAN DI ACEH, INDONESIA: KAJIAN TEORI TAS'IR AL-JABARI
Authors: Muhammad Fadhlur Rahmat
Published: May 2024

Availability of rice at a certain time can experience shortages due to various problems. Perum Bulog has the authority to address this by intervening. One of the interventions is in the availability of rice at the market. The way to stabilize the level of rice availability and price is by providing the intended rice and adjusting it to market demand, therefore the government has the right to determine the price according to the concept of tas'ir al-jabari. The concept of tas'ir al-jabari can be carried out by Bulog in handling rice shortages. The research used in this study is qualitative descriptive. Qualitative research is a method of research that aims to understand phenomena about what is experienced by the research subject, Bulog is a state-owned company that operates in the food logistics sector. This company has various businesses including logistics and storage, surveys and pest control, plastic bag provision, transportation, food commodity trading, and retail sales. As a company with a public duty from the government, Bulog continues to carry out activities such as maintaining the basic purchase price of paddy, stabilizing prices, especially the cost price, and distributing rice to the poor and managing food stocks. Bulog's intervention in the food sector, particularly rice, involves routine agency involvement in handling various problems that arise, including rice shortages. Bulog's intervention against rice shortages can only be carried out after receiving direct orders from Bulog's central office and the Ministry of Trade. One of the interventions carried out is by cooperating with the Agriculture Office, the Central Bureau of Statistics, and the Industrial and Trade Office to conduct market operations aimed at stabilizing the market condition and preventing rice shortages from occurring.
De la praxis a la doxa: la asesoría y consultoría en la gestión pública. Una revisión conceptual
Authors: Rodríguez Hernández Jairo Enrique , Almanza Sánchez David Leonardo
Published: May 2024

El artículo presentado es un subproducto de la investigación del mismo tema, en el cual se hace una revisión de las diferentes versiones que se ha dado a una práctica, casi tan antigua como la humanidad, y es la de la asesoría a los gobernantes por parte de expertos y/o conocedores de temáticas relacionadas con esos asuntos a quienes se les ha denominado "asesores" y, desde inicios del siglo XX, “consultores”. Se parte de un rápido recorrido histórico, para adentrarse en la aclaración de los vocablos, tanto en versiones de autores como de instituciones multilaterales, gremios relacionados y universidades (en Colombia). Se hace a continuación una distinción de la consultoría como servicio con el concepto de investigación aplicada y se continua con una revisión de la manera cómo estos servicios se han empleado en el sector púbico en diferentes latitudes, incluyendo nuestro país. Se finaliza con unas conclusiones que señalan la necesidad de profundizar tanto en la propia conceptualización como en la investigación de esta práctica, que parece dominada por la “doxa”, el mundo de las opiniones, antes que las profundas conceptualizaciones en temas administrativos.
A Circulation Society, Reconsidered: Syrian Jewish Merchant Networks after the Exodus from Aleppo
Authors: Anderson Paul
Published: May 2024

This article analyses the durability of transregional Syrian Jewish merchant networks through the twentieth and early twenty-first centuries, when the centre of these trading networks shifted several times in response to economic transformations and political pressures. Migration patterns from Aleppo following the Ottoman collapse and the exodus after 1947 call for a modified conceptualisation of centres, peripheries and circulation from dominant approaches to merchant networks and circulation societies. Centres are generally thought of as the origin points of persons and goods – namely, women, religious specialists and collateral-free credit – which circulate exclusively within the network; peripheries are nodes which merely receive and depend on centres in these respects. I add to this by analysing central or critical nodes as those where different kinds of mobility intersected to inject new vitality into the networks. Peripheries are not only dependent nodes, but vital points of refuge and transition in times of duress. Furthermore, beyond persons and credit, the circulation of aesthetic and ethical standards, in addition to name values, has helped to maintain the integrity of the network in a period of geographic reconfiguration.
Temas sociocientíficos em “Quarto de despejo” de Carolina de Jesus e a produção de podcasts
Authors: Silva Ivanderson Pereira da , Dionizio Silva Sthefany
Published: May 2024

Este trabalho investigou as potencialidades pedagógicas da obra “Quarto de Despejo: diário de uma favelada”, de Carolina Maria de Jesus, para o ensino de ciências da natureza. De modo geral, objetivou investigar contribuições da problematização de temas sociocientíficos emergentes da obra. De modo específico possui os seguintes objetivos: a) Identificar a presença de temas sociocientíficos na obra “Quarto de Despejo: diário de uma favelada”; b) Analisar possibilidades de uso e produção de podcast para a abordagem de temas sociocientíficos no contexto do ensino; c)Avaliar as contribuições dos temas sociocientíficos emergentes da obra “Quarto de Despejo: diário de uma favelada” para o ensino de ciências. Do ponto de vista metodológico, este estudo consiste numa investigação de natureza qualitativa do tipo exploratória, com foco na produção de uma sequência didática baseada na problematização de temas sociocientíficos. Para a realização deste trabalho, foram desenvolvidas 4 etapas: a) Leitura do livro “Quarto de Despejo: diário de uma favelada”; b) Levantamento dos excertos que retratam temáticas de ciências emergentes da obra; c) Estudo sobre produção e utilização de podcasts no ensino; d) Elaboração de uma proposta de sequência didática para trabalhar os escritos de Carolina por meio da produção de podcasts.
As relações étnico-raciais nas narrativas de professores de ciências dos anos iniciais: uma experiência de formação
Authors: Eugenio Benedito , Marques Alexandrino Daniela
Published: May 2024

As pesquisas sobre formação de professores têm muito a contribuir com a abordagem das relações étnico-raciais. Neste artigo apresentamos os resultados de uma pesquisa-formação realizada com licenciandos em Pedagogia. A questão a ser respondida foi: Quais saberes são mobilizados por professores em formação inicial no curso de Pedagogia ao participarem de uma pesquisa- formação sobre as relações étnico-raciais no ensino de Ciências? Os resultados evidenciam que o processo formativo possibilitou a construção e mobilização de diferentes saberes, particularmente os pedagógicos.
Educação Especial na Rede Federal de Educação Profissional, Científica e Tecnológica
Authors: Dalmonech Jaqueline Zanotti , Rebelo Andressa Santos
Published: May 2024

Neste artigo objetiva-se explorar as produções científicas (teses e dissertações) que abordam a inclusão educacional, o Núcleo de Atendimento às Pessoas com Necessidades Educacionais Específicas (Napne) e o acesso e permanência do público da Educação Especial na Rede Federal de Educação Profissional, Científica e Tecnológica. Foram consultados o Catálogo de Teses e Dissertações — Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) e a Biblioteca Digital Brasileira de Teses e Dissertações (BDTD). Os dados foram organizados a partir do recorte temporal 2009 a 2022, recorte do tema e definição das fontes. Os resultados das pesquisas demonstram que as instituições da Rede Federal ainda enfrentam dificuldades, tais como carência de profissionais, falta de acessibilidade e formação de professores assim como de servidores para atender os alunos público da Educação Especial. A continuidade de pesquisas sobre o tema pode subsidiar o poder público na tomada de decisões, corrigir rumos, propor estratégias e prover os Napnes de informações valiosas para o aprimoramento de suas ações, considerando as diferentes instituições do país.
Development of a breathable polymeric membrane and process optimization by using a general full factorial design
Authors: Ghezal Imene , Moussa Ali , Marzoug Imed , El-Achari Ahmida , Campagne Christine , Sakli Faouzi
Published: May 2024

The aim of this research was to produce a breathable hydrophilic membrane
that can be laminated to textile fabrics to enhance their resistance to
water penetration without restricting their breathability. For this purpose,
aliphatic polyester polyurethane and acrylic ester copolymers were used.
Quantities of both chemicals were varied according to three levels each. A
general full factorial design was used to analyze responses that were the
water vapor permeability index (WVPI (%)) and the absorption rate (Abs rate
(%)). The membrane synthesis process was then optimized by using the Minitab
response optimizer. The optimum polymeric membrane water vapor permeability
and absorption rate were equal to 504.148 g?m-2?day-1 and 50.401%,
respectively. Based on obtained results, the developed polymeric membrane
was judged breathable. The morphological aspect of the dense membrane was
also analyzed. It was noticed that air bubbles with different morphological
types appeared in the nonporous membrane structure. Finally, it was
concluded that the developed membrane can be thermo-assembled with other
textile layers to enhance their resistance to wind and water penetration
without affecting their breathability.