bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose-effect relationship of different acupuncture courses on chronic insomnia disorder: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhu Fengya , Liu Junqian , Wang Yuan , Ma Tingting , Wang Tianyu , Yang Bin , Miao Runqing , Wu Jie
Published: December 2023

Background

Chronic insomnia disorder (CID) is increasing in prevalence year by year, is long lasting, and potentially risky. Acupuncture has been widely used in the clinical management of this condition. However, there is still a lack of direct evidence on the dose-effect relationship between different acupuncture courses and clinical efficacy. To identify this relationship, we will design a randomized controlled trial to clarify the difference in efficacy of different acupuncture courses for CID.

Methods and design

This is a prospective, parallel, single center randomized controlled trial. Two hundred and one participants with CID will be randomly divided into three groups (Group A, Group B, and Group C). The three groups will be given acupuncture therapy for 4, 6, and 8 weeks, three sessions per week, with at least 1 day between sessions. Follow-up will continue until the third month after the end of treatment. The primary outcome is the Insomnia Severity Index (ISI), and secondary outcomes include percentage of ISI < 8 points, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), Self-Rating Depression Scale (SDS), Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS), medication use, and safety.

Discussion

This study is expected to provide direct evidence for the optimal treatment cycle of acupuncture for CID, as well as to facilitate health economic evaluation.

Clinical trial registration

https://clinicaltrials.gov/, identifier [ChiCTR2300073711].
Progress of rapid detection of pesticides in fruits and vegetables
Authors: Gai Te’er , Nie Jiyun , Ding Zhiqiang , Wu Wei , Liu Xia
Published: December 2023

Pesticide residues in fruits and vegetables present a significant concern for human health and safety. By 2022, an average of 3 million people worldwide is poisoned by pesticides every year, and the mortality rate can reach about 20%. This comprehensive review summarizes recent research on the detection of pesticide residues, focusing on the main detection methods and their implications. The study highlights the growing importance of biosensors as a prominent technique, offering enhanced efficiency and accuracy in pesticide residue analysis. The review addresses the challenges associated with pretreatment methods and discusses the advantages and limitations of biosensors. Furthermore, it emphasizes the need for further research to optimize the adaptive capabilities of biosensors, particularly their anti-interference abilities. The findings underscore the significance of developing intelligent adaptive sensors for on-site pesticide residue detection, eliminating the need for complex sample pretreatment. This comprehensive review serves as a valuable reference, facilitating future advancements in pesticide residue analysis, ensuring food safety, and safeguarding consumer health in modern agriculture.
Behavioral observations, heart rate and heart rate variability in horses following oral administration of a cannabidiol containing paste in three escalating doses (part 1/2)
Authors: Eichler Fabienne , Ehrle Anna , Jensen Katharina Charlotte , Baudisch Natalie , Petersen Hannah , Bäumer Wolfgang , Lischer Christoph , Wiegard Mechthild
Published: December 2023

Cannabidiol (CBD) products have been proposed to exert stress- and anxiety-relieving effects in animals. Despite the increasing popularity of CBD for veterinary use, the available research detailing the effects of CBD in horses is limited. The aim of this study (part 1 of 2) was to analyze stress parameters via behavioral observations and heart rate monitoring in healthy horses following single oral administration of a CBD containing paste in different doses. Study products were two pastes for oral administration, one containing CBD and one containing no active ingredient. Pastes were applied as single administrations in consecutive trials with escalating dosages (doses: 0.2, 1.0, 3.0 mg CBD/kg) to a treatment (trial 1: n = 3, trial 2: n = 3, trial 3: n = 5 horses) and a control group (trial 1: n = 3, trial 2: n = 3, trial 3: n = 6 horses) with minimum wash-out periods of seven days in between. Behavioral parameters were evaluated using video recordings to score the levels of sedation including the horses' reactions to acoustic and visual stimuli. Facial expression was assessed using photographs. Evaluation was based on the previously described facial sedation scale for horses (FaceSed) and the Horse Grimace Scale. For baseline values, identical observations were recorded on the day before each paste administration. Both paste administration and behavioral evaluation were performed double blinded. Cardiac beat-to-beat (R-R) intervals were continuously recorded throughout the trial and assessed using heart rate and heart rate variability parameters. Statistical analysis included comparison between treatment and control group over escalating doses and time points using linear mixed models. The CBD paste was well tolerated, and no side effects were observed. Analysis of sedation scores and facial expressions did not indicate significant differences between treatment and control group over the escalating doses. The heart rate was neither reduced, nor were significant changes in heart rate variability observed compared to the control group. Main limitation of this study is the small sample size. Further research is required to determine adequate doses and indications for the use of CBD products in horses.
Current Status and Influencing Factors of Snakebite Diagnosis and Treatment Knowledge Among Medical Staff in China: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Hu Yanlan , Lv Chuanzhu , Song Xingyue , Gan Yong , Wang Juntao , Hao Wenjie , He Lanfen , Chen Yu , Han Xiaotong , Yan Shijiao
Published: December 2023

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the current status of the knowledge of diagnosis and treatment of snakebites among medical staff in China and its influencing factors.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 12,581 medical staff was conducted in 12 provinces in China between June 2022 and February 2023. We analyzed the results using descriptive statistics, T-tests or analysis of variance, and a generalized linear model.

Results: The average score of snakebite diagnosis and treatment knowledge among medical staff in China was 3.15 ± 2.15 out of a total score of 12. Through a generalized linear regression model, we found that gender, occupation, region, hospital level, work department, work tenure, training received in the diagnosis and treatment of snakebite, experience in snakebite diagnosis and treatment, availability of antivenom in the unit, and self-evaluation of snakebite treatment ability all affected the medical staff’s scores of snakebite diagnosis and treatment knowledge.

Conclusion: The knowledge level of snakebite diagnosis and treatment among Chinese medical staff is generally low, so it is imperative to conduct standardized snakebite diagnosis and treatment training for medical staff.
Max-C and Min-D Projection Auto-Associative Fuzzy Morphological Memories: Theory and an Application for Face Recognition
Authors: dos Santos Alex Santana , Valle Marcos Eduardo
Published: December 2023

Max-C and min-D projection auto-associative fuzzy morphological memories (max-C and min-D PAFMMs) are two-layer feedforward fuzzy morphological neural networks designed to store and retrieve finite fuzzy sets. This paper addresses the main features of these auto-associative memories: unlimited absolute storage capacity, fast retrieval of stored items, few spurious memories, and excellent tolerance to either dilative or erosive noise. Particular attention is given to the so-called Zadeh’ PAFMM, which exhibits the most significant noise tolerance among the max-C and min-D PAFMMs besides performing no floating-point arithmetic operations. Computational experiments reveal that Zadeh’s max-C PFAMM, combined with a noise masking strategy, yields a fast and robust classifier with a strong potential for face recognition tasks.
Antimicrobial Resistance in the Time of COVID-19
Authors: Singh Chandra Kant , Sodhi Kushneet Kaur
Published: December 2023

The world is presently dealing with two pandemics—COVID-19 and antibiotic resistance (AMR)—that constitute a serious menace to public health on a worldwide basis [...]
A Hybrid Model for Spatiotemporal Air Quality Prediction Based on Interpretable Neural Networks and a Graph Neural Network
Authors: Ding Huijuan , Noh Giseop
Published: December 2023

To effectively address air pollution and enhance air quality, governments must be able to predict the air quality index with high accuracy and reliability. However, air quality prediction is subject to ambiguity and instability because of the atmosphere’s fluidity, making it challenging to identify the temporal and spatial correlations using a single model. Therefore, a new hybrid model is proposed based on an interpretable neural network and a graph neural network (INNGNN), which simulates the temporal and spatial dependence of air quality and achieves accurate multi-step air quality prediction. A time series is first interpreted using interpretable neural networks (INN) to extract the potentially important aspects that are easily overlooked in the data; second, a self-attention mechanism catches the local and global dependencies and associations in the time series. Lastly, a city map is created using a graph neural network (GNN) to determine the relationships between cities in order to extract the spatially dependent features. In the experimental evaluation, the results show that the INNGNN model performs better than comparable algorithms. Therefore, it is confirmed that the INNGNN model can effectively capture the temporal and spatial relationships and better predict air quality.
Web3: Exploring Decentralized Technologies and Applications for the Future of Empowerment and Ownership
Authors: Lai Yiwei , Yang Jingyi , Liu Mingzhe , Li Yibei , Li Shanlin
Published: December 2023

The emergence of the World Wide Web has revolutionized online communication, aiming to achieve global information sharing and communication. However, the current Web 2.0 architecture, which relies on centralized platforms, presents limitations such as restricted user rights, data privacy concerns, and dependence on centralized institutions. Web3, as a concept describing the next evolutionary stage of the internet, offers a solution to these issues by reshaping the internet infrastructure. Web3 provides a foundation for autonomous digital experiences and drives the advancement of the digital economy. This paper offers a thorough exploration of Web3, covering its key technologies, applications, challenges, and opportunities. We begin by introducing the core technologies behind Web3, followed by an exploration of its prominent applications. Finally, we analyze the challenges faced by Web3 and discuss potential research opportunities to address these challenges in the future. In summary, this study comprehensively elaborates on Web3 and lays a solid foundation for subsequent research work, encouraging researchers to explore new frontiers.
Exploring the Functional Heterogeneity of Directly Reprogrammed Neural Stem Cell-Derived Neurons via Single-Cell RNA Sequencing
Authors: Kim Yoo Sung , Seo NaRi , Kim Ji-Hye , Kang Soyeong , Park Ji Won , Park Ki Dae , Lee Hyang-Ae , Park Misun
Published: December 2023

The therapeutic potential of directly reprogrammed neural stem cells (iNSCs) for neurodegenerative diseases relies on reducing the innate tumorigenicity of pluripotent stem cells. However, the heterogeneity within iNSCs is a major hurdle in quality control prior to clinical applications. Herein, we generated iNSCs from human fibroblasts, by transfecting transcription factors using Sendai virus particles, and characterized the expression of iNSC markers. Using immunostaining and quantitative real time –polymerase chain reaction (RT –qPCR), no differences were observed between colonies of iNSCs and iNSC-derived neurons. Unexpectedly, patch-clamp analysis of iNSC-derived neurons revealed distinctive action potential firing even within the same batch product. We performed single-cell RNA sequencing in fibroblasts, iNSCs, and iNSC-derived neurons to dissect their functional heterogeneity and identify cell fate regulators during direct reprogramming followed by neuronal differentiation. Pseudotime trajectory analysis revealed distinct cell types depending on their gene expression profiles. Differential gene expression analysis showed distinct NEUROG1, PEG3, and STMN2 expression patterns in iNSCs and iNSC-derived neurons. Taken together, we recommend performing a predictable functional assessment with appropriate surrogate markers to ensure the quality control of iNSCs and their differentiated neurons, particularly before cell banking for regenerative cell therapy.
A Novel Mutation in Sacsin, p.Val1335IIe, May Cause Late-Onset Sacsinopathy Due to Haploinsufficiency
Authors: Kim Danyeong , Ryoo Nayoung , Park Young Ho , Bagyinszky Eva , An Seong Soo Alexander , Kim SangYun
Published: December 2023

Autosomal recessive spastic ataxia in Charlevoix-Saguenay (ARSACS) is a neurodegenerative disorder caused by mutations in the sacsin molecular chaperone protein (SACS) gene. Since the first report from Quebec in 1978, many pathogenic ARSACS variants with significantly reduced chaperone activities have been reported worldwide in adolescents, with presumably altered protein folding. In this study, a novel SACS mutation (p.Val1335IIe, Heterozygous) was identified in a Korean patient in their 50s with late-onset ARSACS characterized by cerebellar ataxia and spasticity without peripheral neuropathy. The mutation was confirmed via whole exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing and was predicted to likely cause disease using prediction software. RT-PCR and ELISA showed decreased SACS mRNA expression and sacsin protein concentrations in the proband, supporting its implications in diseases with pathogenicity and reduced chaperone function from haploinsufficiency. Our results revealed the pathogenicity of the SACS Val1335IIe mutation in the proband patient’s disease manifestation, even though the symptoms had a limited correlation with the typical ARSACS clinical triad, which could be due to the reduced chaperon function from haploinsufficiency. Furthermore, our study suggests that variants of SACS heterozygosity may have diverse symptoms, with a wide range of disease onsets for late-onset sacsinopathy.
Lumbricus Extract Prevents LPS-Induced Inflammatory Activation of BV2 Microglia and Glutamate-Induced Hippocampal HT22 Cell Death by Suppressing MAPK/NF-κB/NLRP3 Signaling and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Oh You-Chang , Jeong Yun Hee , Yang Hye Jin , Li Wei , Ma Jin Yeul
Published: December 2023

Microglia-induced inflammatory signaling and neuronal oxidative stress are mutually reinforcing processes central to the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. Recent studies have shown that extracts of dried Pheretima aspergillum (Lumbricus) can inhibit tissue fibrosis, mitochondrial damage, and asthma. However, the effects of Lumbricus extracts on neuroinflammation and neuronal damage have not been previously studied. Therefore, to evaluate the therapeutic potential of Lumbricus extract for neurodegenerative diseases, the current study assessed the extract’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in BV2 microglial cultures stimulated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) along with its neuroprotective efficacy in mouse hippocampal HT22 cell cultures treated with excess glutamate. Lumbricus extract dose-dependently inhibited the LPS-induced production of multiple proinflammatory cytokines (tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin (IL)-6, and IL-1β) and reversed the upregulation of proinflammatory enzymes (inducible nitric oxide synthase and cyclooxygenase-2). Lumbricus also activated the antioxidative nuclear factor erythroid 2-relayed factor 2/heme oxygenase-1 pathway and inhibited LPS-induced activation of the nuclear factor-κB/mitogen-activated protein kinases/NOD-like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 inflammatory pathway. In addition, Lumbricus extract suppressed the glutamate-induced necrotic and apoptotic death of HT22 cells, effects associated with upregulated expression of antiapoptotic proteins, downregulation of pro-apoptotic proteins, and reduced accumulation of reactive oxygen species. Chromatography revealed that the Lumbricus extract contained uracil, hypoxanthine, uridine, xanthine, adenosine, inosine, and guanosine. Its effects against microglial activation and excitotoxic neuronal death reported herein support the therapeutic potential of Lumbricus for neurodegenerative diseases.
War at Sea: Burn Care Challenges—Past, Present and Future
Authors: Tadlock Matthew D. , Edson Theodore D. , Cancio Jill M. , Flieger Dana M. , Wickard Aaron S. , Grimsley Bailey , Gustafson Corey G. , Yelon Jay A. , Jeng James C. , Gurney Jennifer M.
Published: December 2023

Throughout history, seafarers have been exposed to potential thermal injuries during naval warfare; however, injury prevention, including advances in personal protective equipment, has saved lives. Thankfully, burn injuries have decreased over time, which has resulted in a significant clinical skills gap. Ships with only Role 1 (no surgical capability) assets have worse outcomes after burn injury compared to those with Role 2 (surgical capability) assets. To prepare for future burn care challenges during a war at sea, Military Medicine must re-learn the lessons of World War I and World War II. Burn injuries do not occur in isolation during war and are associated with concomitant traumatic injuries. To care for burn casualties at sea, there is an urgent need to increase the availability of whole blood and dried plasma, resuscitation fluids that were ubiquitous throughout the naval force during World War II for both hemorrhagic and burn shock resuscitation. Furthermore, those providing trauma care at sea require formal burn care training and skills sustainment experiences in the clinical management of Burn, Trauma, and Critical Care patients. While burn education, training, and experience must be improved, modern high-energy weapons systems and anti-ship ballistic missiles necessitate concurrent investments in prevention, countermeasures, and personal protective equipment to decrease the likelihood of burn injury and damage resulting from these attacks.
Empirical Degradation Models of the Different Indexes of the Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Based on the Component Degradation
Authors: Fan Lei , Gao Jianhua , Lu Yanda , Shen Wei , Zhou Su
Published: December 2023

To describe the degradation of proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), empirical degradation models of different indexes of PEMFCs are established. Firstly, the simulation process and assumptions of PEMFC degradation are proposed. Secondly, the degradation simulation results including the performance and distribution indexes under the different degradation levels are conducted by AVL FIRE M. Finally, the empirical degradation models of performance and distribution indexes are established based on the above simulation results and experimental data. The results show that the relationship between the experimental and simulation results is established by the index of current density. The empirical degradation models of current density, average equilibrium potential on the cathode catalyst layer (CL), average membrane water content, average oxygen molar concentration on the cathode CL, and average hydrogen crossover flux are the linear function. The empirical degradation models of average exchange current density on the anode CL, average hydrogen molar concentration on the anode CL, and average oxygen crossover flux are the quadratic function. The empirical degradation model of average activation overpotential on the cathode CL is the quintic function.
Evaluating OSM Building Footprint Data Quality in Québec Province, Canada from 2018 to 2023: A Comparative Study
Authors: Moradi Milad , Roche Stéphane , Mostafavi Mir Abolfazl
Published: December 2023

OpenStreetMap (OSM) is among the most prominent Volunteered Geographic Information (VGI) initiatives, aiming to create a freely accessible world map. Despite its success, the data quality of OSM remains variable. This study begins by identifying the quality metrics proposed by earlier research to assess the quality of OSM building footprints. It then evaluates the quality of OSM building data from 2018 and 2023 for five cities within Québec, Canada. The analysis reveals a significant quality improvement over time. In 2018, the completeness of OSM building footprints in the examined cities averaged around 5%, while by 2023, it had increased to approximately 35%. However, this improvement was not evenly distributed. For example, Shawinigan saw its completeness surge from 2% to 99%. The study also finds that OSM contributors were more likely to digitize larger buildings before smaller ones. Positional accuracy saw enhancement, with the average error shrinking from 3.7 m in 2018 to 2.3 m in 2023. The average distance measure suggests a modest increase in shape accuracy over the same period. Overall, while the quality of OSM building footprints has indeed improved, this study shows that the extent of the improvement varied significantly across different cities. Shawinigan experienced a substantial increase in data quality compared to its counterparts.
Use of Smartphone Lidar Technology for Low-Cost 3D Building Documentation with iPhone 13 Pro: A Comparative Analysis of Mobile Scanning Applications
Authors: Askar Cigdem , Sternberg Harald
Published: December 2023

Laser scanning technology has long been the preferred method for capturing interior scenes in various industries. With a growing market, smaller and more affordable scanners have emerged, offering end products with sufficient accuracy. While not on par with professional scanners, Apple has made laser scanning technology accessible to users with the introduction of the new iPhone Pro models, democratizing 3D scanning. Thus, this study aimed to assess the performance of the iPhone’s lidar technology as a low-cost solution for building documentation. Four scanning applications were evaluated to determine the accuracy, precision, and user experience of the generated point clouds compared with a terrestrial laser scanner. The results reveal varying performances on the same device, highlighting the influence of software. Notably, there is room for improvement, particularly in tracking the device’s position through software solutions. As it stands, the technology is well suited for applications such as indoor navigation and the generation of quick floor plans in the context of building documentation.
From Algorithms to Clinical Utility: A Systematic Review of Individualized Risk Prediction Models for Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Herrera Deborah Jael , van de Veerdonk Wessel , Seibert Daiane Maria , Boke Moges Muluneh , Gutiérrez-Ortiz Claudia , Yimer Nigus Bililign , Feyen Karen , Ferrari Allegra , Van Hal Guido
Published: December 2023

Individualized risk prediction models for colorectal cancer (CRC) play a pivotal role in shaping risk-based screening approaches, garnering attention for use in informed decision making by patients and clinicians. While the incorporation of new predictors and the development of advanced yet complex prediction models can enhance model performance, their practical implementation in clinical settings remains challenging. This systematic review assessed individualized CRC risk prediction models for their validity and potential clinical utility. Utilizing the Cochrane Collaboration methods and PROBAST tool, we conducted comprehensive searches across key databases and risk of bias assessment, respectively. Out of 41 studies included evaluating 44 risk prediction models, 12 conventional and 3 composite models underwent external validation. All risk models exhibited varying discriminatory accuracy, with the area under the curve (AUCs) ranging from 0.57 to 0.90. However, most studies showed an unclear or high risk of bias, with concerns about applicability. Of the five models with promising clinical utility, only two underwent external validation and one employed a decision curve analysis. These models demonstrated a discriminating and well-calibrated performance. While high-performing CRC risk prediction models exist, a need for transparent reporting of performance metrics and their clinical utility persists. Further research on this area is needed to facilitate the integration of these models into clinical practice, particularly in CRC screening.
Is a Purloined Letter Just Writing? Burrowing in the Lacan-Derrida Archive
Authors: Rabaté Jean-Michel
Published: December 2023

Starting from a recent book on Derrida and psychoanalysis, I return to the controversy between Lacan and Derrida in the 1970s. Its focus was the letter as interpreted by Lacan in a commentary of Poe’s “Purloined Letter”. While agreeing with some of Derrida’s objections, I conclude that Lacan makes stronger points about the destination of the letter. I give my own example, Kafka’s “Letter to the Father” in order to argue that one can state that “a letter always reaches its destination” even if it has not been delivered.
DRP1 Regulation as a Potential Target in Hypoxia-Induced Cerebral Pathology
Authors: Fedorova Evgenia N. , Egorova Anna V. , Voronkov Dmitry N. , Mudzhiri Natalia M. , Baranich Tatiana I. , Glinkina Valeria V. , Krapivkin Alexey I. , Mamedov Ilgar S. , Sukhorukov Vladimir S.
Published: December 2023

The following review considers current concepts concerning the characteristics of DRP1-related mitochondrial division in brain cells during hypoxic-ischemic pathology. The functional role of DRP1 in neurons and astroglia in cerebral ischemia conditions was analyzed. We discuss the potential for regulating DRP1 activity through the selective inhibitor of mitochondrial fission, mdivi-1. The article also presents data on DRP1 involvement in astro- and microglia-mediated intercellular mitochondrial transport. Understanding of the molecular mechanisms responsible for mitochondrial fission during hypoxic-ischemic exposure will allow us to consider DRP1 as an effective therapeutic target for treating conditions with a hypoxic component.
Estimation of Iron Loss in Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors Based on Particle Swarm Optimization and a Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Xu Kai , Guo Youguang , Lei Gang , Zhu Jianguo
Published: December 2023

The popularity of permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs) has increased in recent years due to their high efficiency, compact size, and low maintenance needs. Calculating iron loss in PMSMs is crucial for designing and optimizing PMSMs to achieve high efficiency and a long lifespan, as this can significantly affect motor performance. However, multiple factors influence the accuracy of iron loss calculations in PMSMs, including the intricate magnetic behavior of the motor under different operating conditions, as well as the influence of the motor’s dynamic behavior during the operation process. This paper proposes a method based on particle swarm optimization (PSO) and a recurrent neural network (RNN) to estimate the iron loss in PMSMs, independent of the empirical iron loss formula. This method establishes an iron loss calculation model considering high-order harmonics, rotating magnetization, and temperature factors. Accounting for the multifactor influence, the model studies the law of loss change under different magnetic flux densities, frequencies, and temperature conditions. To avoid the deviation problem caused by conventional polynomial fitting, a multilayer RNN and PSO are used to train and optimize the neural network. Iron loss in complex cases beyond the measurement range can be accurately estimated. The proposed method helps achieve a PMSM iron loss calculation model with broad applicability and high accuracy.
Social Intelligence Mining: Unlocking Insights from X
Authors: Hassani Hossein , Komendantova Nadejda , Rovenskaya Elena , Yeganegi Mohammad Reza
Published: December 2023

Social trend mining, situated at the confluence of data science and social research, provides a novel lens through which to examine societal dynamics and emerging trends. This paper explores the intricate landscape of social trend mining, with a specific emphasis on discerning leading and lagging trends. Within this context, our study employs social trend mining techniques to scrutinize X (formerly Twitter) data pertaining to risk management, earthquakes, and disasters. A comprehensive comprehension of how individuals perceive the significance of these pivotal facets within disaster risk management is essential for shaping policies that garner public acceptance. This paper sheds light on the intricacies of public sentiment and provides valuable insights for policymakers and researchers alike.
Coronary Microvascular Dysfunction and Hypertension: A Bond More Important than We Think
Authors: Zdravkovic Marija , Popadic Viseslav , Klasnja Slobodan , Klasnja Andrea , Ivankovic Tatjana , Lasica Ratko , Lovic Dragan , Gostiljac Drasko , Vasiljevic Zorana
Published: December 2023

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) is a clinical entity linked with various risk factors that significantly affect cardiac morbidity and mortality. Hypertension, one of the most important, causes both functional and structural alterations in the microvasculature, promoting the occurrence and progression of microvascular angina. Endothelial dysfunction and capillary rarefaction play the most significant role in the development of CMD among patients with hypertension. CMD is also related to several hypertension-induced morphological and functional changes in the myocardium in the subclinical and early clinical stages, including left ventricular hypertrophy, interstitial myocardial fibrosis, and diastolic dysfunction. This indicates the fact that CMD, especially if associated with hypertension, is a subclinical marker of end-organ damage and heart failure, particularly that with preserved ejection fraction. This is why it is important to search for microvascular angina in every patient with hypertension and chest pain not associated with obstructive coronary artery disease. Several highly sensitive and specific non-invasive and invasive diagnostic modalities have been developed to evaluate the presence and severity of CMD and also to investigate and guide the treatment of additional complications that can affect further prognosis. This comprehensive review provides insight into the main pathophysiological mechanisms of CMD in hypertensive patients, offering an integrated diagnostic approach as well as an overview of currently available therapeutical modalities.
Electronic Structure and Chemical Bonding of the First-, Second-, and Third-Row-Transition-Metal Monoborides: The Formation of Quadruple Bonds in RhB, RuB, and TcB
Authors: Demetriou Constantinos , Tzeliou Christina Eleftheria , Androutsopoulos Alexandros , Tzeli Demeter
Published: December 2023

Boron presents an important role in chemistry, biology, and materials science. Diatomic transition-metal borides (MBs) are the building blocks of many complexes and materials, and they present unique electronic structures with interesting and peculiar properties and a variety of bonding schemes which are analyzed here. In the first part of this paper, we present a review on the available experimental and theoretical studies on the first-row-transition-metal borides, i.e., ScB, TiB, VB, CrB, MnB, FeB, CoB, NiB, CuB, and ZnB; the second-row-transition-metal borides, i.e., YB, ZrB, NbB, MoB, TcB, RuB, RhB, PdB, AgB, and CdB; and the third-row-transition-metal borides, i.e., LaB, HfB, TaB, WB, ReB, OsB, IrB, PtB, AuB, and HgB. Consequently, in the second part, the second- and third-row MBs are studied via DFT calculations using the B3LYP, TPSSh, and MN15 functionals and, in some cases, via multi-reference methods, MRCISD+Q, in conjunction with the aug-cc-pVQZ-PPM/aug-cc-pVQZB basis sets. Specifically, bond distances, dissociation energies, frequencies, dipole moments, and natural NPA charges are reported. Comparisons between MB molecules along the three rows are presented, and their differences and similarities are analyzed. The bonding of the diatomic borides is also described; it is found that, apart from RhB(X1Σ+), which was just recently found to form quadruple bonds, RuB(X2Δ) and TcB(X3Σ−) also form quadruple σ2σ2π2π2 bonds in their X states. Moreover, to fill the gap existing in the current literature, here, we calculate the TcB molecule.
The Discovery of Indole-2-carboxylic Acid Derivatives as Novel HIV-1 Integrase Strand Transfer Inhibitors
Authors: Wang Yu-Chan , Zhang Wen-Li , Zhang Rong-Hong , Liu Chun-Hua , Zhao Yong-Long , Yan Guo-Yi , Liao Shang-Gao , Li Yong-Jun , Zhou Meng
Published: December 2023

As an important antiviral target, HIV-1 integrase plays a key role in the viral life cycle, and five integrase strand transfer inhibitors (INSTIs) have been approved for the treatment of HIV-1 infections so far. However, similar to other clinically used antiviral drugs, resistance-causing mutations have appeared, which have impaired the efficacy of INSTIs. In the current study, to identify novel integrase inhibitors, a set of molecular docking-based virtual screenings were performed, and indole-2-carboxylic acid was developed as a potent INSTI scaffold. Indole-2-carboxylic acid derivative 3 was proved to effectively inhibit the strand transfer of HIV-1 integrase, and binding conformation analysis showed that the indole core and C2 carboxyl group obviously chelated the two Mg2+ ions within the active site of integrase. Further structural optimizations on compound 3 provided the derivative 20a, which markedly increased the integrase inhibitory effect, with an IC50 value of 0.13 μM. Binding mode analysis revealed that the introduction of a long branch on C3 of the indole core improved the interaction with the hydrophobic cavity near the active site of integrase, indicating that indole-2-carboxylic acid is a promising scaffold for the development of integrase inhibitors.
Recent Progress in Advanced Polyester Elastomers for Tissue Engineering and Bioelectronics
Authors: Zhao Yawei , Zhong Wen
Published: December 2023

Polyester elastomers are highly flexible and elastic materials that have demonstrated considerable potential in various biomedical applications including cardiac, vascular, neural, and bone tissue engineering and bioelectronics. Polyesters are desirable candidates for future commercial implants due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, tunable mechanical properties, and facile synthesis and fabrication methods. The incorporation of bioactive components further improves the therapeutic effects of polyester elastomers in biomedical applications. In this review, novel structural modification methods that contribute to outstanding mechanical behaviors of polyester elastomers are discussed. Recent advances in the application of polyester elastomers in tissue engineering and bioelectronics are outlined and analyzed. A prospective of the future research and development on polyester elastomers is also provided.
Near-IR Electrochromic Film with High Optical Contrast and Stability Prepared by Oxidative Electropolymerization of Triphenylamine Modified Terpyridine Platinum(II) Chloride
Authors: Gu Huiying , Sun Xiaomeng , Zhao Qian , Wang Hongwei , Cheng Xinfeng , Yang Chunxia , Qiu Dongfang
Published: December 2023

Terpyridine (TPY) platinum(II) chloride with a triphenylamine (TPA) group was successfully synthesized. The strong intramolecular Donor(TPA)-Acceptor(TPY) interaction induced the low-energy absorption band, mixing the spin-allowed singlet dπ(Pt)→π*(TPY) metal-to-ligand charge transfer (MLCT) with the chloride ligand-to-metal charge transfer (LMCT) and chloride ligand-to-ligand (TPY) charge transfer (LLCT) transitions, to bathochromically shift to λmax = 449 nm with significant enhancement and broadening effects. Using the cyclic voltammetry method, its oxidative electropolymerization (EP) films on working Pt disk and ITO electrodes were produced with tunable thickness and diffusion controlled redox behavior, which were characterized by the SEM, EDS, FT-IR, and AC impedance methods. Upon applying +1.4 V voltage, the sandwich-type electrochromic device (ECD) with ca. 290 nm thickness of the EP film exhibits a distinct color transformation from red (CIE coordinates: L = 50.75, a = 18.58, b = 5.69) to dark blue (CIE coordinates: L = 45.65, a = −1.35, b = −12.49). Good electrochromic (EC) parameters, such as a large optical contrast (ΔT%) of 78%, quick coloration and bleaching response times of 2.9 s and 1.1 s, high coloration and bleaching efficiencies of 278.0 and 390.5 C−1·cm2, and good cycling stability (maintains 70% of the initial ΔT% value after 3200 voltage switching cycles), were obtained.
Sustainable Coating Based on Zwitterionic Functionalized Polyurushiol with Antifouling and Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Xu Kaiyue , Xie Huimin , Sun Chenyi , Lin Wenyan , You Zixuan , Zheng Guocai , Zheng Xiaoxiao , Xu Yanlian , Chen Jipeng , Lin Fengcai
Published: December 2023

Zwitterionic polymer coatings facilitate the formation of hydration layers via electrostatic interactions on their surfaces and have demonstrated efficacy in preventing biofouling. They have emerged as a promising class of marine antifouling materials. However, designing multifunctional, environmentally friendly, and natural products-derived zwitterionic polymer coatings that simultaneously resist biofouling, inhibit protein adhesion, exhibit strong antibacterial properties, and reduce algal adhesion is a significant challenge. This study employed two diisocyanates as crosslinkers and natural urushiol and ethanolamine as raw materials. The coupling reaction of diisocyanates with hydroxyl groups was employed to synthesize urushiol-based precursors. Subsequently, sulfobetaine moieties were introduced into the urushiol-based precursors, developing two environmentally friendly and high-performance zwitterionic-functionalized polyurushiol antifouling coatings, denoted as HUDM-SB and IPUDM-SB. The sulfobetaine-functionalized polyurushiol coating exhibited significantly enhanced hydrophilicity, with the static water contact angle reduced to less than 60°, and demonstrated excellent resistance to protein adhesion. IPUDM-SB exhibited antibacterial efficacy up to 99.9% against common Gram-negative bacteria (E. coli and V. alginolyticus) and Gram-positive bacteria (S. aureus and Bacillus. sp.). HUDM-SB achieved antibacterial efficacy exceeding 95.0% against four bacterial species. Furthermore, the sulfobetaine moieties on the surfaces of the IPUDM-SB and HUDM-SB coatings effectively inhibited the growth and reproduction of algal cells by preventing microalgae adhesion. This zwitterionic-functionalized polyurushiol coating does not contain antifouling agents, making it a green, environmentally friendly, and high-performance biomaterial-based solution for marine antifouling.
Development of a 3D Perfused In Vitro System to Assess Proangiogenic Properties of Compounds
Authors: Alm Johanna , Fischer Benoit , Burger Alexandra Emanuela , Moretti Francesca
Published: December 2023

Perturbation of angiogenesis is associated with a variety of diseases and pro- as well as antiangiogenic therapies are being actively explored. Additionally, unintended adverse drug effects on angiogenesis might lead to promotion of tumor progression and cardiovascular complications. Several tri-dimensional microfluidic vessel-on-chip systems have been described that allow a more accurate investigation of vascular physiology and pathology, compared to the two-dimensional static culture of endothelial cells. The OrganoPlate® angiogenesis-on-chip system has been demonstrated to be amenable to high-throughput screening for the antiangiogenic properties of molecules. We set out to adapt this system for high-throughput screening of molecules with proangiogenic properties. Our technical advancement of the OrganoPlate® angiogenesis-on-chip assay expands its applicability in the early screening of both anti- as well as proangiogenic properties of compounds for therapeutic modulation of angiogenesis as well as the identification of angiogenesis-associated drug-induced vascular toxicities.
Theoretical Investigation of Delafossite-Cu2ZnSnO4 as a Promising Photovoltaic Absorber
Authors: Kang Seoung-Hun , Kang Myeongjun , Hwang Sang Woon , Yeom Sinchul , Yoon Mina , Ok Jong Mok , Yoon Sangmoon
Published: December 2023

In the quest for efficient and cost-effective photovoltaic absorber materials beyond silicon, considerable attention has been directed toward exploring alternatives. One such material, zincblende-derived Cu2ZnSnS4 (CZTS), has shown promise due to its ideal band gap size and high absorption coefficient. However, challenges such as structural defects and secondary phase formation have hindered its development. In this study, we examine the potential of another compound, Cu2ZnSnO4 (CZTO), with a similar composition to CZTS as a promising alternative. Employing ab initio density function theory (DFT) calculations in combination with an evolutionary structure prediction algorithm, we identify that the crystalline phase of delafossite structure is the most stable among the 900 (meta)stable CZTO. Its thermodynamic stability at room temperature is also confirmed by the molecular dynamics study. Excitingly, this new phase of CZTO displays a direct band gap where the dipole-allowed transition occurs, making it a strong candidate for efficient light absorptions. Furthermore, the estimation of spectroscopic limited maximum efficiency (SLME) directly demonstrates the high potential of delafossite-CZTO as a photovoltaic absorber. Our numerical results suggest that delafossite-CZTO holds promise for future photovoltaic applications.
Extraction and Analysis of Chemical Compositions of Natural Products and Plants
Authors: Zhang Mengjie , Zhao Jinhua , Dai Xiaofeng , Li Xiumei
Published: December 2023

There are many types of natural plants in nature that contain a variety of effective and complex chemical components. These constituents can be categorized as organic acids, volatile oils, coumarins, steroids, glycosides, alkaloids, carbohydrates, phytochromes, etc., all of which play important roles in the fields of pharmaceuticals, food, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics. The study of extraction and chemical composition analysis of natural products is important for the discovery of these active ingredients and their precursors. Therefore, the aim of this article is to review the status of research on the extraction, separation and purification, and structural identification of natural products, to provide a reference for the study of natural products.
RANCANG BANGUN SISTEM INFORMASI PENJUALAN BERBASIS CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT (CRM) PADA USAHA MIKRO KECIL MENENGAH (UMKM) DI KABUPATEN JEPARA
Authors: Murod Alfarisi Agus , Mahendra Danang
Published: December 2023

Pesatnya persaingan bisnis usaha mikro kecil menengah (umkm), menuntut pemilik usaha untuk menerapkan suatu strategi yang tepat, demi mendukung proses bisnisnya, salah satunya ialah metode pemasaran melalui media online dengan tujuan untuk menjangkau banyak pembeli.  Realitanya media yang digunakan oleh UMKM selama ini untuk menjajakan barang  masih memiliki kelemahan di mana pelanggan masih disulitkan pada saat melakukan transaksi. Penerapan Customer Relationship Management (CRM) pada  pelanggan. Beberapa UMKM akan dijadikan objek dalam penelitian ini. Objek tersebut akan dianalisis menggunakan metode analisis SWOT untuk mengetahui dan mengevaluasi strategi yang tepat berkaitan dengan (strengths), kelemahan (weaknesses), peluang (opportunities), dan ancaman (threats) pada UMKM beserta dilengkapi dengan konsep CRM untuk membantu dalam menetukan fitur-fitur CRM yang diterapakan. Sehingga hasil yang diharapkan dalam penelitian ini adalah sebuah website e-marketplace dengan kelebihan dapat memberikan kemudahan dan keleluasaan UMKM dalam memberikan informasi yang dibutuhkan konsumen dan proses transaksi bisa  dilakukan  dengan lebih  mudah Serta penerapan fitur CRM yang diharapkan dapat meningkatkan kualitas pelayanan terhadap kepuasan pelanggan.
Hemşirelerin İşyeri Nezaketsizliği ile Karşılaşma Durumları ve Memnuniyet Düzeylerine Etkileri
Authors: KUTLU Adalet , UTAR Abdulkadir
Published: December 2023

Amaç: Bu çalışma, hemşirelerin işyeri nezaketsizliği ile karşılaşma durumları ve memnuniyet düzeylerine etkilerinin incelenmesi amacıyla yapıldı.

Gereç ve Yöntem: Araştırma tanımlayıcı ve kesitsel tiptedir. Araştırmanın örneklemini Eylül-Aralık 2020 tarihleri arasında Manisa Celal Bayar Üniversitesi Hafsa Sultan Hastanesinde çalışmaya katılmaya gönüllü olan hemşireler oluşturdu (n=313). Veriler Bilgi Formu, İşyeri Nezaketsizlik Ölçeği ve memnuniyet düzeyleri 0-10 indeksi ile toplandı. Verilerin analizi SPSS 22.0 programında yapıldı. Hemşirelerin sosyodemografik özellikleri ile ölçek puanları arasındaki ilişkiyi belirlemek için; Mann Whitney U, Kruskal Wallis ve Bonferroni düzeltmesi yapıldı. İşyeri Nezaketsizliği Ölçeği (İNÖ) ve çalışan memnuniyeti arasındaki ilişkinin belirlenmesi için de Spearman korelasyon analizi yapıldı.

Bulgular: Hemşirelerin yaş ortalaması 29,78±6,24, %78,9’u kadın ve %41,9’ u lisans mezunudur. Hemşirelerin İNÖ puan ortalaması 1,82±0,84 olarak bulundu. Hemşirelerin kurum memnuniyet ortalaması 7,49 ± 2,11; birim memnuniyet ortalaması ise 6,46 ± 2,09 olarak bulundu. Hemşirelerin nezaketsizlik ölçeği toplam puanları ile birim ve kurum memnuniyeti puanları arasında negatif yönde, orta düzey ve istatiksel olarak anlamlı ilişki bulundu (p
Membentuk Karakter Moderat Berbasis Moderasi Beragama
Authors: Nole Otniel Aurelius , Serdianus Serdianus
Published: December 2023

Moderasi beragama merupakan kunci dalam menjelaskan cara hidup beragama yang benar dan kewajiban menghargai agama lain. Ini berbicara tentang apa yang dilakukan demi memanusiakan manusia dan menolak kekerasan. Ini penting untuk dipahami dan dilakukan oleh semua umat. Hakikat, signifikansi, dan praktik moderasi beragama dipakai untuk membentuk karakter moderat. Dengan karakter moderat, kehidupan dipenuhi dengan kondisi yang hidup rukun, damai, dan harmonis. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengemukakan upaya membentuk karakter moderat berbasis moderasi beragama dalam kehidupan sehari-hari. Pendekatan yang dipakai adalah pendidikan interreligius karena ini merupakan pendidikan lintas agama yang tidak monolog, melainkan dialog. Pendidikan interreligius dilakukan secara konstan agar maksimal. Metode penelitiannya adalah kualitatif dengan jenis penelitian studi kepustakaan. Hasil penelitian ini menemukan bahwa pendidikan interreligius menghadirkan habituasi tentang makna moderasi beragama bagi kehidupan yang tidak ekstrem, serta membentuk karakter yang baik di tengah-tengah kehidupan, yaitu karakter moderat. Dalam hal ini, karakter moderat adalah bagian yang perlu dimiliki untuk semua orang dengan segala jenis usia.