bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metagenomics analysis reveals that carbon degradation rather than carbon fixation is dominant during animal carcass decay
Authors: Wang Xiaochen , Sun Xiaofang , Yu Qiaoling , Zhang Xiao , Shi Yu , Heděnec Petr , Ma Tengfei , Qian Han , Yang Jiawei , Li Huan
Published: July 2023

Background Temperature shapes microbial functional genes associated with carbon (C) cycles. However, the effects of temperature on microbial C cycle genes associated with carcass-contaminated water remains poorly understood. To fill this gap, we explored the variation of microbial carbon cycling genes in polluted water caused by animal corpse decay at five different temperature gradients (23, 26, 29, 32, and 35℃) by metagenomic sequencing.
Results Corpse decay increased the total carbon by 86.6%, but temperature rise had no significant effect. The dominant phyla of C-cycle microbes were Proteobacteria, followed by Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes. Approximately a half of carbon-cycling genes and 37.59% of carbohydrate-active enzyme genes can be predicted by temperature, while others were not sensitive to temperature. The alpha diversity of carbon cycling genes decreased with rising temperature, and beta diversity was affected by temperature and cadaver decomposition. High temperature led to an increase of those genes encoding decomposed starch, carbohydrate esters, pectin, lignin, chitin, cellulose, oligosaccharide, debranching enzymes and hemicellulose in control group, while only carbohydrate esters decomposition increased with temperature in the corpse group. The concentration of total carbon was positively related with easily degradable carbon genes (e.g., decomposed starch), but lacked correlations with refractory carbon genes (e.g., cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin).
Conclusions We found that carbon degradation rather than carbon fixation was dominated during animal carcass decay, and microbes may prioritize use the degradable carbon, such as easily decomposed amylose. Our research finds that carcass decomposition regulates carbon cycle pathway, and provides possibility for predicting carbon cycle genes under global warming.
Exosomal microRNA-122 from HCC inhibits hepatic stellate cell fibrosis activation via AMPK signaling.
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Chen Zhaozheng , Li Ziyi , Jin Yong , Tao Qianqian , Peng Hui , Yu Qingsheng , Yang Wen , Feng Qiyu , Wang Hongyang
Published: July 2023

sEVs are extracellular vesicles with nanoscale bilayer membranes that deliver cell-specific proteins and nucleic acids (including mRNA and miRNA) to regulate intracellular signaling pathways. The development of hepatic fibrosis is closely related to sEV and its miRNA, which regulate the activation, proliferation, apoptosis, and migration of hepatic stellate cells. In this study, we report on the regulation of human hepatic stellate cell (HSC) LX-2 cell line by sEVs derived from serum of liver cancer patients through miR-122 and its potential signaling pathway. The effect of miR-122 on mRNA and protein expression of fibrosis markers was evaluated in human hepatic stellate cell LX-2 cell line transfected with miR-122 mimics or added serum-derived sEVs from liver cancer patients using QRT-PCR and western blot analysis. The effect of AMPK on LX-2 cell activation was validated using metformin or AMPK inhibitor. Results showed that miRNA-122 was expressed at low levels in activated LX-2 cells, but serum-derived sEVs and miR-122 mimics from liver cancer patients up-regulated miR-122 levels in activated LX-2 cells and reduced the expression of fibrosis marker proteins. The phosphorylation of AMPK decreased after activation of LX-2 cells, and the level of miR-122 was positively correlated with the phosphorylation of AMPK upon verification, suggesting that sEVs derived from serum of liver cancer patients can up-regulate miR-122 levels in LX-2 cells, change the energy status of cells, and inhibit the activation of HSC. This finding may provide an explanation for the reduced degree of fibrosis observed in HCC patients.
The biosocial correlates and predictors of emotion dysregulation in autistic adults compared to borderline personality disorder and nonclinical controls
Authors: Bemmouna Doha , Lagzouli Amine , Weiner Luisa
Published: July 2023

Background
Emotion dysregulation (ED) is a core symptom of borderline personality disorder (BPD), whose etiology has been attributed to biosocial factors. In autism spectrum disorder (ASD), although ED is prevalent and is associated with decreased well-being (e.g., self-harm, suicidality), it has been understudied, especially in adults. It is therefore crucial to further understand ED in autistic adults to improve its treatment. Our study investigates ED, its behavioural correlates (e.g., self-harm, suicidality) and biosocial predictors in autistic adults relative to BPD and nonclinical controls (NC).
Methods
724 participants (ASD = 154; BPD = 111; NC = 459) completed 11 self-reported questionnaires assessing ED, ASD and BPD traits, co-occurring disorders, alexithymia, emotional vulnerability and invalidating experiences (e.g., bullying, autistic camouflaging). The occurrence of ED behavioural correlates (i.e., self-harm, history of suicide attempts, and psychiatric hospitalizations) was collected. In addition, between-groups analyses, linear regressions and machine learning models (ML) were used to identify ED predictors in each group.
Results
ED and its behavioural correlates were higher in ASD compared to NC, but milder than in BPD. While gender did not predict ED scores, autistic women had increased risk factors to ED, including sexual abuse and camouflaging. Interestingly, BPD traits, emotional vulnerability, and alexithymia strongly predicted ED scores across the groups. Using ML models, sensory sensitivity and autistic camouflaging were associated with ED in ASD, and ADHD symptoms with ED in BPD.
Limitations:
ASD and BPD diagnoses were self-reported, which did not allow us to check their accuracy. Additionally, we did not explore the transactional and the moderating/mediating relationships between the different variables. Moreover, our research is cross-sectional and cannot draw conclusions regarding the direction and causality of relationships between ED and other clinical dimensions.
Conclusions
ED and its behavioural correlates are heightened in BPD compared to ASD and nonclinical controls. In the ASD group, there were no gender differences in ED, despite the heightened exposure of autistic women to ED risk factors. BPD traits, emotional vulnerability, and alexithymia are core to ED regardless of diagnosis. Although less central, sensory sensitivity and autistic camouflaging seem to be specific predictors of ED in autistic adults.
Soil Erosion risk Assessment in Moridhal watershed of Assam, India using Universal Soil Loss Equation and GIS
Authors: Bharteey Prem Kumar , Deka Bipul , Patgiri D. K. , Dutta Marami , Goswami Jonali , Saikia Rituparna
Published: July 2023

Soil erosion is one of the major factors affecting sustainability of agricultural production in watershed. The objective of this paper is to estimate soil loss using the universal soil loss equation (USLE) model and GIS and to suggest soil conservation practices in Moridhal watershed. Soil loss was estimated by USLE. In addition, measurements of randomly selected soil and water conservation structures were done at four physiographic units of watershed. The erodibility of the studied soils was assessed by computing various erodibility indices like clay ratio, silt clay ratio, modified clay ratio, dispersion ratio, erosion ratio and erosion index. The soil loss of watershed was varied from very slight to very severe (range 0.87–67.77 t ha-1 yr-1). Among the physiographic units, the soil loss in the upper piedmont plain area was moderately severe to very severe with a value varying from 19.9–67.8 t ha-1 yr-1. The dispersion ratio of the soils varied from 0.06 to 1.18. It was observed that 48.82 per cent of the total studied soil samples had dispersion ratio values above 0.15 which may be considered as erodible. The erosion ratio and erosion index of studied soils varied from varied from 0.01–0.55 and 0.03–0.71, respectively. Based on the study it was found that the soils in different physiographic units are suffering from varying degree of soil erosion. The upper piedmont plain areas of the watershed require management practices which could improve the erosion status and soil productivity. The results of soil loss obtained from the study could be effectively used by the planners, watershed managers and policy makers to formulate site specific conservation plans in order to minimize soil loss for sustaining productivity.
Income Inequality and Economic Complexity in Africa: The Moderating Role of Governance Quality
Authors: Beyene Amsalu Bedemo
Published: July 2023

This study examines the effect of economic complexity on income inequality through the moderating role of governance factors. It is based on data obtained from 24 African countries from 2000 to 2018 and has employed systems GMM panel method of estimation. The findings show that economic complexity (without interaction term) has a significant positive effect on income inequality. However, the coefficient of the interaction term is negative and significant implying that the adverse (positive) effect of economic complexity on inequality is significantly offset by the inclusion of governance factors. The estimated results for disaggregated governance factors also indicate similar findings to that of the aggregate indicator. All governance indicators reduce income inequality when interacting with economic complexity. The overall result entails important policy implications in that improving governance quality will help reduce the deteriorating effect of economic complexity on income inequality. This calls for taking measures to improve the performance of governance factors to at least reduce the deteriorating effect of economic complexity on income inequality.
The Effectiveness and Mechanisms of Acupuncture in Treating Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Li Ningcen , Kang Xiaochun , Zhao Tianyi , Song Jingxuan , Dong Haihang , Cheng Xinhui , Wu Sinuo , Zhou Liang , Gong YiNan , Chen Bo , Wang ShenJun , Xu Zhifang , Guo Yongming , Guo Yi , Pan Xingfang , Lyu Zhongxi
Published: July 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD), which mainly manifested by cognitive decline, affects millions of elderly people around the world. With the global aging continues to accelerate, the incidence of AD is also increasing year by year. The chronic, persistent, and irreversible decline of learning and memory ability of AD brings serious harm and economic burden to families and society. Because of its complex of pathogenesis, there is still a lack of effective treatment for AD. Acupuncture, as one of the complementary and alternative therapies, has provided a promising avenue for the treatment of AD. This study comprehensively reviews literature from the last ten years, showing that acupuncture indeed exerts strong beneficial effects on AD. Acupuncture can regulate the species and structure of the intestinal flora, repair the intestinal barrier and the brain blood barrier, prevent inflammatory cytokines and harmful substances in the intestine from entering the blood and brain to improve the cognitive impairment of AD. In addition to this, acupuncture can treat AD by regulating Aβ deposition (including inhibiting Aβ production and promoting Aβ clearance), inhibiting tau protein phosphorylation, improving the structure and function of neurons and synapses, promoting nerve regeneration, relieving chronic neuroinflammation, regulating energy metabolism and cerebral blood flow of the brain, etc. It is worth noting that the effect of acupuncture on AD is related to the selections of acupoints, the form and frequency of acupuncture, etc. Some special acupuncture methods, such as Sanjiao acupuncture and "olfactory three-needle" therapy, also provide new perspectives for AD. The therapeutic effect and potential mechanism of acupuncture on AD summarized in this study provide scientific and reliable evidence for acupuncture application for AD.
MAML-SGD:A reliable airline reschedulingalgorithm for small-sample learning based onMAML and SGD
Authors: Shen Zhiyuan , Zhao Qinshuai , Liu Yiyang
Published: July 2023

Airline rescheduling can be used to minimize the number of abnormal flightsduring the flight-plan execution process. This can improve the rate of normalflights and reduce the occurrence of flight delays and their subsequent adverseeffects. Airline rescheduling involves few samples and is also uncontrollable. Thesubjective manual reduction method has low efficiency and does not considerdaily major security and epidemic factors. Traditional machine learning methodsrequire massive data training and testing, and so are not applicable to the relativefew samples available for airline rescheduling. In this study we addressed theseproblems by establishing a set of airline rescheduling indicators by analyzing factors that influence airline rescheduling, and determined the inputs for an airlinerescheduling identification model based on a multilayer perceptron model. TheMAML (model-agnostic meta-learning)-SGD (stochastic gradient descent) airlinerescheduling algorithm was proposed to enable the identification model to learnand classify flights using few samples. By using historical data for GuangzhouBaiyun International Airport from May to September 2021 to train and testthe model, the airline rescheduling accuracy of the model reached 97% usingthis algorithm, which was markedly higher than that achievable using traditionalmachine-learning models such as SVM(support vector machines). Compared withthe identification model that uses an SGD algorithm to iteratively update parameters, this algorithm can maintain the stability of the gradient descent during thetraining and testing processes of the model.
The Relationship between Perfectionism, Psychiatric disorders and Use of Mental Health Services in Adolescence: Results from a National Patient Register Linkage Study
Authors: Sand Liv , Bøe Tormod , Stormark Kjell Morten , Bjåstad Jon F. , Hysing Mari
Published: July 2023

The aim of the present study was to examine perfectionism among adolescents in relation to psychiatric disorders and contact with child and adolescent mental health care services (CAMHS). The sample consisted of adolescents (16–19 years) who participated in the youth@hordaland survey and consented to a linkage to the patient registry data (n = 9072, 53.2% girls). Those who had received help from CAMHS (n = 933, 10.3%) were categorized as the clinical group, while the remaining adolescents (n = 8139, 89.7%) defined a reference group. Perfectionism was measured by the Eating Disorder Inventory-2 as a sum score (EDI-P) and subscales for Self-Oriented (SOP) and Socially-Oriented (SPP) perfectionism. The clinical group scored higher on SPP than the reference group (1.99, SD = 1.75, vs. 1.88, SD = 1.56, p < .05), but not on EDI-P or SOP. There were more high scorers in the clinical group than the reference group for EDI-P (11.8% vs. 8.9%, p < .01) and SPP (11.9% vs. 6.7%, p < .001), but not for SOP. Adolescents with depression and eating disorders scored higher on all dimensions of perfectionism compared to the reference group, also when adjusting for sex. Perfectionism was higher in the clinical group than the reference group, and this was more pronounced for SPP than SOP. Only depression and eating disorders were associated with elevated perfectionism scores in the clinical group. Perfectionism should be targeted in future longitudinal studies as well as in clinical interventions in other to strengthen the mental health among adolescents.
Generation of high-power and highly collimated X-rays through cross-collision between relativistic electron and tightly focused intense laser pulse
Authors: Yang Qingyu , Wang Yubo , Li Xingyu , Tian Youwei
Published: July 2023

Nonlinear cross Thomson scattering (NCTS) is the process that an electron cross-collides with a laser pulse, which has potential as a high-quality X-ray source. This paper reports a method to generate sideways X-ray with high power and good collimation through NCTS based on classical electrodynamics, through numerical simulation. When NCTS happens between a relativistic electron and a tightly focused circular polarized intense laser pulse, the initial distance of the electron with the interaction area has a significant effect of electron motion and radiation. The spatial radiation shows a shape of lying ‘U’, whose peak power increases first and then decreases as initial distance increasing. The peak power is more concentrate and is 31.4% higher than that of nonlinear inverse Thomson scattering. Changing the initial distance of electron can modulate the direction of NCTS radiation from 60° to 90° to the electron incident direction. The cut-off wavelength of its super continuity spectrum reaches 6.67Å. These results are helpful for understanding nonlinear Thomson scattering and designing practical high-quality X-ray sources.
Human Resource Management in the Egyptian Healthcare System, Physician Immigration
Authors: Magdy Ahmed , Elhosseiny Islam
Published: July 2023

Background
Egypt is a developing country with a large population served by a healthcare system facing many challenges. Physician immigration is an imminent healthcare system danger that urges prompt interventions.
Methods
Qualitative research through 30 minutes interviews with Egyptian physicians from different backgrounds.
Results
25 interviews were conducted with Egyptian physicians from different specialties, in different career stages inside and outside of Egypt. Underpayment, sense of insecurity, non-efficient healthcare system, and social issues were among the top reasons to leave the country or drop the profession based on the interviews. Better working environment, legislative changes, and serious improvements in healthcare services are the main suggested solutions to the dilemma.
Conclusion
There are rising numbers of physicians are leaving Egypt or dropping out of the profession. There reasons include stressful working environment, low payment, insecurity, and better alternatives internationally. The government is exerting solutions that are not meeting up the expectations of physicians and healthcare personnel in general.
Monte Carlo optimization based QSAR modeling, molecular docking studies and ADMET predictions of compounds with antiMES activity
Authors: Živadinović Biljana , Stamenović Jelena , Živadinović Jelena , Živadinović Lazar , Živadinović Aleksandar , Stojanović Miloš , Lazarević Milan , Sokolović Dušan , Veselinović Aleksandar M.
Published: July 2023

The paper deals with QSAR modeling-based Monte Carlo optimization. The molecular descriptors involve the local molecular graph invariants and the SMILES notation for the molecules whose anti-MES activity is active against maximal electroshock seizure (MES). The developed QSAR model was validated with the use of various statistical parameters, such as the correlation coefficient, cross-validated correlation coefficient, standard error of estimation, mean absolute error, root-mean-square error Rm2, MAE-based metrics, the Fischer ratio as well as the correlation ideality index. Along with the robustness of the developed QSAR model, the used statistical methods yielded an excellent predictability potential. The discovered molecular fragments utilized for the preparation of the computer-aided design of the new compounds were thought to have led to the increase and decrease of the examined activity. Molecular docking studies were referred to when making the final assessment of the designed inhibitors. This emphasized excellent correlation with QSAR modeling results. The computation of physicochemical descriptors was conducted in order to predict ADME parameters, pharmacokinetic properties, the drug-like nature and medicinal chemistry friendliness, with the aim of supporting drug discovery. Based on the results, all the designed molecules indicate the presence of high drug-likeness.
Cuproptosis-related lncRNAs modulate the prognosis of MIBC by regulating the expression pattern of immunosuppressive molecules within the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Duan Huangqi , Shen Yu , Wang Chen , Xia Weimin , Zhang Shun , Yu Shenggen , Xu Ding , Cao Qifeng , Liu Hailong , Shen Haibo
Published: July 2023

Cuproptosis-related gene and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) modulation of cancer regulation is well-established. This investigation aimed to elucidate the prognostic implications of cuproptosis-associated lncRNAs in muscle-invasive bladder cancer (MIBC). Employing The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and IMvigor210 cohorts, bioinformatics and statistical analyses probed the prognostic relevance of cuproptosis-related lncRNAs. Co-expression analysis revealed tight associations between lncRNA expression and cuproptosis-linked genes, with 13 cuproptosis-related lncRNAs found to correlate with MIBC prognosis. Lasso regression identified a six-lncRNA prognostic signature, enabling patient stratification into high- and low-risk categories. Tissue validation substantiated differential expression of FAM13A-AS1, GHRLOS, LINC00456, OPA1-AS1, RAP2C-AS1, and UBE2Q1-AS1 between MIBC tumor and normal tissues. Comparative analyses of tumor microenvironments and immune profiles between risk groups disclosed elevated immunosuppressive molecule expression, including programmed cell death-1 (PD-L1) and T-cell immunoglobulin-3 (TIM-3), in high-risk individuals. These findings suggest that cuproptosis-related lncRNAs modulate immune responses within the tumor microenvironment, thereby influencing MIBC tumorigenesis and progression. Further exploration is warranted to unveil novel therapeutic targets for MIBC based on the expression patterns of cuproptosis-related lncRNAs and their impact on immune responses in the tumor microenvironment.
Sandwich-Type Planar Chiral Metamaterials for Tuning Circular Dichroism
Authors: Bian Wanlu , Zhu Guodong , Ma Fengcai , Fang Yurui
Published: July 2023

Chiral metasurfaces exhibit significant circular dichroism (CD) and chiral signal enhancement, which has the potential to be used in novel nano-optical devices. This work describes a bilayer resonant planar chiral metasurface (PCM) composed of И and N-shaped gold nanoparticles. It is found that in the near-infrared region, the structure has obvious optical active and chiral near-field enhancement. To explore the origin of chirality, linear superposition theory is applied to analyze chiral response intuitively and concisely. What’s more, the dependence of the CD spectra on the PCM parameters was thoroughly explored, showing that the CD properties of the proposed PCM arrays strongly depend on the geometric parameters and material type. The bilayer PCM array proposed in this paper not only has a strong chiral signal but also is easy to prepare experimentally. More importantly, the spectrum of PCM can be adjusted by simply adjusting the particle rotation angle and changing the material of the dielectric layer, which has broad potential application prospects in the fields of chiral molecular biosensing and asymmetric information transmission.
WITHDRAWN: Investigation of the mechanical characteristics of counterfort and relief shelves composite retaining wall
Authors: Yang Miao , Wang Ying , Xiao Shenghan , Guo Hao , Dong Jianxun
Published: July 2023

The counterfort and relief shelf composite retaining wall can decrease the lateral earth pressure, with the T-shape variable section beam as the tension member being an effective solution for high fill slope engineering. However, research on this kind of retaining wall is limited, and investigating the lateral earth pressure distribution law, and mechanical and deformation characteristics of the composite structure is necessary. In this paper, three model tests were conducted, including a counterfort structure, a structure with short relief shelves, and a structure with long relief shelves; the lateral earth pressures, buttress stresses, and structural displacements were measured. The results revealed that the lateral earth pressures, buttress stresses, and displacements of composite structures were smaller than those of the counterfort retaining wall under the same conditions. Longer relief shelves exert a lower lateral earth pressure, but the difference in buttress stresses and displacement is not obvious. The displacement curve of the composite retaining wall was similar to that of the counterfort retaining wall, conforming to the bending deformation of the cantilever beam. Due to the differences among the bending moment derived from the test, the theoretical lateral earth pressure, and that calculated from the test buttress stress, this study hypothesizes that some force is exerted in the lower part of the unloading zone, which should be further researched.
Comprehensive characterization of inflammatory cells reveals novel molecular typing of biliary atresia
Authors: Li Tengfei , Zheng Qipeng , Wang Xueting , Yang Qianhui , Li Mengdi , Xu Xiaodan , Zhao Yilin , Zhao Fangyuan , Zhang Ruifeng , Wang Zhiru , Sun Rongjuan , Liu Shaowen , Musha Jiayinaxi , Zhang Yanran , Zhan Jianghua
Published: July 2023

Objectives: Biliary Atresia (BA) is a severe cholangiopathy that affects the liver's bile ducts in pediatric patients. Ongoing research has identified a range of factors that may be contributing to the development of BA, with inflammation and fibrosis being among the most widely studied. However, it is essential to acknowledge that not all patients present with these etiological mechanisms. The significance of inflammation-associated cells as a contributing factor in BA is increasingly being recognized. Our approach to re-classifying BA involves integrating gene microarray data and scRNA-seq data, enabling us to provide customized clinical treatment and facilitating mechanistic studies.
Methods: The BA microarray dataset GSE15235, containing gene expression data from BA and normal liver, was downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. To validate our findings, we used an additional dataset (GSE46960) as a replication cohort. By analysis of the immune microenvironment, eight types of inflammation-associated immune cells were used for typing research. The combination of enrichment analysis and clinical data revealed the characteristics of each subtype. An effective method for identifying BA typing through machine learning algorithms. The immune landscape of biliary atresia T and NK cells was further analyzed by combining scRNA-seq datasets.
Results: Two novel subtypes of inflammation were identified, the highly immune-activated C1 subtype and the lowly immune-activated C2 subtype. The C1 subtype exhibits an enhanced inflammatory response accompanied by a high infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages M1. On the other hand, the C2 subtype exhibits cell cycle activation, enhanced lipid metabolic activity, and stronger fibrosis accompanied by a high infiltration of CD8+ T cells and NK cells. CD8+ T cells may promote value-added and differentiation through signaling pathways such as CD99, CLEC, and ITGB2, further leading to fibrosis.
Conclusion: In conclusion, we have defined two novel inflammatory subtypes and offered the possibility to identify and treat them. The role of neutrophils, CD8+ T cells, and CD16+ NK cells in BA deserve to be further explored.
Political Economy of Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Prevention and Control in Lebanon: Identifying Challenges and Opportunities for Policy Change and Care Provision Reforms
Authors: Bou-Orm Ibrahim R. , Loffreda Giulia , Diaconu Karin , Witter Sophie , deVos Pol
Published: July 2023

Introduction.
Lebanon is a middle-income country facing substantial fragility features. Its health profile shows a high burden of NCD morbidity and mortality. This paper intends to analyse the political economy of NCD Prevention and control in Lebanon.
Methods.
A literature-based, single-case study research design was adopted using a problem-driven political economy analysis framework. Peer-reviewed publications and documents from the grey literature were retrieved without restrictions on language or date.
Results.
Lebanon’s political instability and fragile governance negatively affect its capacity to adapt a Health-in-All-Policies approach to NCD prevention and enable the blocking of NCD prevention policies by opposed stakeholders. Recent economic crises limit the fiscal capacity that could be used to address health financing issues and resulting health inequities. NCD care provision is twisted by powerful stakeholders towards a hospital-centred model with a powerful private sector. Stakeholders like the MOPH, UN agencies, and NGOs have been pushing towards changing the existing care model towards a primary care model. An incremental reform has been adopted to strengthen a network of primary care centres, support them with health technologies and improve the quality of PHC services. Nevertheless, outpatient services that are covered by other public funds remain specialist-led without much institutional regulation.
Conclusion.
Our study revealed a locked equilibrium in NCD prevention policymaking in Lebanon, but with incremental progress in service delivery reforms towards a PHC model. Advocacy and close monitoring by policy entrepreneurs (such as civil society) could initiate and sustain the implementation of policy change and care model reforms.
Numerical Solution of the Burgers’ Equation Using Chelyshkov Polynomials
Authors: ARAR NOURIA , DEGHDOUGH BOUCHRA , DEKKICHE SOUAD , TORCH ZINEB , NAGY A. M.
Published: July 2023

The paper proposes a numerical method to approximate the solution of the nonlinear Burgers’ equation. The approach utilizes the Crank-Nicolson scheme for temporal discretization, leading to a discrete formulation and approximations of the solution at each time step. These approximations are then expressed using the Chelyshkov polynomial basis. The system of nonlinear equations resulting from this transformation is solved using Newton’s method to determine the unknowns. To evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method, three numerical examples are presented. A comparison with existing literature demonstrates that the method is more accurate and efficient in producing calculations.
AMS 33C45, 65N06, 65M70.
Socioeconomic and biophysical factors affect tree diversity in farms producing specialty coffee in Caranavi, Bolivia
Authors: Torrico Gabriel G. , Alvarado Nayra Antezana , Pacheco Luis F. , Benavides‑Frias Camila , Jacobi Johanna
Published: July 2023

Specialty coffee (SC) production enables farmers to earn premium prices for high-quality coffee. In Bolivia, some coffee-based agroforestry systems (CAFS) produce SC. However, while many Bolivian families’ livelihoods depend on coffee, studies on SC-producing CAFS remain scarce. Yet, research on tree diversity, CAFS management and the factors affecting tree diversity can offer novel insights on agroforestry. We sampled 24 farms in three villages located in the Caranavi municipality. We analyzed farms main characteristics, biophysical variables, shade tree diversity, tree uses, management practices and farmers’ socioeconomic background. Additionally, we surveyed 50 coffee farmers to collect information about their preferences for shade tree species and tree characteristics. Then, we investigated if farmers’ socioeconomic and farm biophysical variables affect CAFS tree species richness and tree density using generalized linear models (GLM). Our results showed that studied farms are small and certified properties (average: 2.6 ha) managed by families; we observed that CAFS provide farmers with valuable products besides SC. We identified 85 tree species that provide principally shade for coffee and fruits, timber, lumber and medicines. Moreover, farmers prefer mostly shade tree species that offer them useful and marketable products, while tree characteristics are preferred according to their benefits to coffee and farmers. GLM revealed that socioeconomic and biophysical variables related to management and landscape composition affect: tree species richness and density. These results suggest that management and landscape are influential factors driving CAFS tree diversity. Hence, factors fostering farmers’ ability to manage their CAFS for biodiversity and household wellbeing should be promoted.
Improving Flood Forecasts capability of Taihang Piedmont Basin by coupling WRF and HEC-HMS
Authors: Zhang Ting , Gao Ya , Yu Ping , Li Jianzhu , Feng Ping , Ma Hui Xin
Published: July 2023

Based on numerical weather prediction model Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) and Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC-HMS), a coupling model is constructed in Taihang Piedmont basin. The WRF model parameter scheme combinations composed of microphysics, planetary boundary layers (PBL), and cumulus parameterizations suitable for the study area are optimized. In both time and space, we tested the effects of the WRF model by a multi-index evaluation system composed of relative error (RE), root meantime square error (RMSE), probability of detection (POD), false alarm ratio (FAR), critical success index (CSI) and established this system in two stages. A multi-attribute decision-making model based on TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution) and grey correlation degree is proposed to optimize each parameter scheme. Among eighteen parameter scheme combinations, Mellor-Yamada-Janjic (MYJ), Grell-Devinji (GD), Purdue-Lin (Lin), Mellor-Yamada-Janjic (MYJ), Betts-Miller-Janjić (BMJ), Single-Moment6(WSM6) are ideal choices according to the simulation performance in both time and space. Using the unidirectional coupling method, the rolling rainfall forecast results of the WRF model in the 24h and 48h forecast periods are input to HEC-HMS hydrological model to simulate three typical floods. The coupling simulation results are better than the traditional forecast method, and it prolongs the flood forecast period of the Taihang Piedmont basin.
In Situ Breast Cancer Surgeries in Sweden: Lumpectomy or Mastectomy? - A Cost-Utility Analysis in a 30-Year Time Period Using Markov Model
Authors: Pham Phu Duy , Muchadeyi Muchandifunga Trust , Lindholm Lars
Published: July 2023

Background:Breast cancer is the most prevalent cancer among Swedish women, and while treatments have progressed significantly over the years, there have been few health economics assessments of these treatments, particularly cost effectiveness analysis. This study was to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of three surgical procedures for in situ breast cancer treatment in Sweden: mastectomy, lumpectomy without irradiation, and lumpectomy with irradiation.
Methods:A 6-state Markov model with a 30-year time horizon was used to compare the cost-utility of these three alternatives. Transition probabilities were based on a targeted literature review focusing on available evidence in Sweden and similar contexts. Healthcare and societal perspectives were both considered in cost estimation using the Swedish National Cancer Registry patient data in 2020 (Cancerregistret), and a quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) was used to calculate utility. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis (PSA) was applied to handle uncertainties among the parameters.
Results:The results showed that lumpectomy with irradiation are cost-effective compared to lumpectomy without irradiation with an incremental cost effectiveness ratio (ICER) of 402,994 Swedish Krona (SEK) from a healthcare perspective and of 575,833 SEK from a societal perspective. Mastectomy alternative was dominated by the two lumpectomy alternatives, as it was the costliest option and yielded the lowest QALYs over the 30-year period. PSA results also supported the findings.
Conclusions:This study conducted a cost-utility analysis of three surgical procedures for in situ breast cancer treatment in Sweden, namely mastectomy, lumpectomy without and with irradiation. Further studies are needed to obtain more reliable parameters in Sweden and increase the consistency of the findings.
How does crystalline solids form from solution? Crystallization of lanthanide(III) hydroxides
Authors: Sørensen Thomas Just , Nielsen Villads , Aalling-Frederiksen Olivia , Jensen Kirsten
Published: July 2023

Technology and innovation requires new high performance materials, however our knowledge of how crystalline materials are formed is limited.1-5
We can control the growth of single crystals from melts and make semiconductors, optical fibers, and jet turbine blades.6 And we can with atomic precision make molecular architectures in the lab,7 or by exploiting biotechnological advances.8
However, where we for the creation of molecular species have a detailed mechanistic understanding, we do not have a succinct model that describes the formation mechanism of crystalline materials from solutions containing the molecular building blocks.9-11
Here we show that the formation of lanthanide(III) hydroxide crystallites does not take place in solutions,12-17 but happens upon dehydration on the filter. The data reveals that no solids are present in solution and that no crystallization occur. In solution a strong, washable gel phase is formed. Using total scattering,18-21 it is documented that no long range order is present in solutions, and that the gel is constructed from clusters of lanthanide(III) ions.
Despite the emergence of studies of the structure of crystallites in solutions and in melts,22-31 the early stages of formation of solids from ions and molecules in solution remains poorly understood.21, 32-34
The process from solvated ion to cluster to agglomerate can be described like any other chemical transformation, and must follow a reaction profile with energy barriers, intermediates, and transition states—and will be governed by reaction kinetics and thermodynamics. The first step is to map all species involved between solute and nanocrystal, and here studying materials made from lanthanide(III) ions are useful as luminescence, electron miscopy and scattering is strong with these ions.
Modular, Automated Synthesis of Spirocyclic Tetrahydronaphthyridines from Primary Alkylamines
Authors: Cresswell Alexander , Cao Qiao , Tibbetts Joshua , Wrigley Gail , Smalley Adam
Published: July 2023

Spirocyclic tetrahydronaphthyridines (THNs) are valuable scaffolds for drug discovery campaigns, but access to this 3D chemical space is hampered by a lack of modular and scalable synthetic methods. We hereby report a fully automated, continuous flow synthesis of α alkylated and spirocyclic 1,2,3,4-tetrahydro-1,8-naphthyridines (“1,8-THNs”), in addition to their regioisomeric 1,6 THN analogues, from abundant primary amine feedstocks. An annulative disconnection approach based on photoredox-catalysed hydroaminoalkylation (HAA) of halogenated vinylpyridines is sequenced in combination with intramolecular SNAr N arylation. To access the remaining 1,7- and 1,5-THN isomers, a photoredox-catalysed HAA step is telescoped with a palladium-catalysed C–N bond formation. Altogether, this provides a highly modular access to four isomeric THN cores from a common set of unprotected primary amine starting materials, using the same bond disconnections. The simplifying power of the methodology is illustrated by a concise synthesis of the spirocyclic THN core of Pfizer’s MC4R antagonist PF-07258669, reducing the previous step count by 67%.
Outcome dissimilarities in age group and delivery modality studied in the prediabetes Lifestyle Change Program conducted by Virginia Cooperative Extension
Authors: Pourkhalili Azin , Rafie Carlin , Margheim Lynn , Sarshar Arash
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:
The National Diabetes Prevention Program established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention promotes the implementation of an evidence-based lifestyle change program (LCP) to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. The LCP is a 12-month program with 26 lessons covering topics on healthy diets, increasing physical activity, managing stress, and coping with triggers, among others. It includes weekly goal-setting, food and physical activity tracking, and group support. The program goals are 5-7% sustained weight loss and 150 minutes of physical activity weekly. Little is known about the real-world effectiveness of the LCP in different age groups, particularly in older adults.
OBJECTIVES:
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of age on LCP outcomes conducted by Virginia Cooperative Extension between 2018–2022 with the following objectives:
(a) Evaluate the effects of age on LCP outcomes in different age groups.
(b) Evaluate how LCP delivery methods (in-person and distance learning) influence program outcomes.
PARTICIPANTS:
189 participants enrolled in the LCP, 139 (73%) completed eight or more sessions, and 56% were above 60 years of age. Among the enrolled population, 51% of participants enrolled in the distance learning LCP program, while 49% preferred in-person.
METHODS :
To assess the differences in LCP outcomes between different age groups and delivery modalities, we performed t-tests followed up by post-hoc tests.
RESULTS:
At six months, participants 60 years and older had significantly higher attendance compared to participants under 60 years old (17 vs. 15, p<0.001). When considering the program delivery methods, participants 60 years and older had significantly higher attendance in distance learning programs by the end of six (15 vs. 17, p<0.001) and 12 months (18 vs. 21, p<0.001). Also, this age group who attended the distance learning programs had significantly higher weight loss compared to those who attended the in-person program at the end of the six months (4.61% vs. 2.07, p=0.02). Meanwhile, 86 persons (62%) had at least an average of 150 minutes of physical activity per week by the end of the program. Among them, the majority were 60 and older (67%) and enrolled in in-person programs (64%).
CONCLUSION:
The results showed that older participants were more successful than their younger counterparts in meeting LCP goals. These findings suggest that targeting different age groups and intervention delivery methods can improve program outcomes.
Kullan At Ürünler Yerine Eskiye Dönüş (Return Instead of Use Products)
Authors: ERÇETİN Hatice Kübra , GÜNEŞ Eda
Published: July 2023

Yıllar içinde değişen eğitim seviyesi, yaşam tarzı, zaman yönetimi gibi unsurlar hazır gıda tüketimine olan ilginin artmasına ve tüketim toplumunun oluşmasına sebep olmuştur. Tüketim toplumunun ihtiyaçlarının karşılanması için geliştirilen sistemler yada teknolojik iyileştirmeler insanın ihtiyaçlarını karşılamakta başarılı olsa da, tüketim çılgınlığının oluşturduğu yeni sorunlarla başetmekte çok başarılı olamamaktadır. Tüketimin aşırı şekilde artmasının en önemli sonuçlarından birisi olan çevresel etkiler ve kirlilik: artan dünya nüfusunun yanı sıra kullan at ürünlerin de sıklıkla kullanılmasına bağlı olarak artmaktadır. Çalışmada günümüzde tüketimi yaygın olan tek kullanımlık plastik ürünler ile geçmişte kullanılan mutfak eşyaları hakkında literatür taraması yapılmıştır. Eskiye dönüş ve plastik ürün kullanımının insan ve çevreye etkileri değerlendirilmiştir. Bu doğrultuda günümüzde hemen hemen tüm sektörlerde kullanılan plastik ambalajların kullanımından sonra doğada yok olmadıkları ve kalıcı atık oluşturdukları için yerine nelerin kullanılabileceği hakkında bilgiler sağlanmıştır.
ChatGPT Uzaktan Eğitim Sınavlarında Başarılı Olabilir Mi Turizm Alanında Doğruluk ve Doğrulama Üzerine Bir Araştırma (Can ChatGPT Succeed in Distance Education Exams A Research on Accuracy and Verification in Tourism)
Authors: GÖKTAŞ Levent Selman
Published: July 2023

Uzaktan eğitim sürecinde gerçekleştirilen online ödev ve sınavlarda en çok endişe duyulan durum öğrencilerin yeterince denetlenemiyor olmasıdır. ChatGPT gibi dil modeli teknolojisine dayalı yapay zekâ uygulamaları da bu endişeyi arttırabilecek önemli unsurlardır. Bu doğrultuda çalışma, ChatGPT’nin turizm alanında gerçekleştirilecek ödev ve çoktan seçmeli sınavlarda, doğruluk ve doğrulama aşamalarında nasıl bir başarı ortaya koyduğunu göstermeyi amaçlamaktadır. Çalışma sonucu incelendiği zaman, ChatGPT gibi teknolojilerin ortaya çıkmasının çevrimiçi sınavların bütünlüğüne yönelik önemli bir tehdit oluşturduğu belirlenmiştir. Ödev sorularında hatalı yanıtlar vermesi ve belirtmiş olduğu kaynakların gerçekte var olmaması ChatGPT’nin bu tarz sorularda hem doğruluk hem de doğrulama aşamalarında yeterli başarıya ulaşamadığını göstermiştir. Fakat çoktan seçmeli sorular karşısında oldukça başarılı olduğu görülmüştür. 20 adet çoktan seçmeli sorunun 16 adedine doğru 4 adedine ise yanlış cevap vermiştir. Bu durum ChatGPT’nin çoktan seçmeli turizm bilgisinin ölçülmesinde iyi bir turizm öğrencisinden beklenen düzeyde performans gösterdiğini ortaya koymuştur.
Soğuk Çay ve Limonata Formülasyonlarında Sakkaroz (Sofra Şekeri) ve Stevya Kullanımının Ürün Tercihi Üzerine Etkisi (The Effect of Sucrose (Table Sugar) and Stevia Use in Ice Tea and Lemonade Formulations on Product Preference)
Authors: KENDİRCİ Perihan , ÜZGÜN Şerife
Published: July 2023

Bu çalışmada, soğuk çay ve limonatanın tatlandırıcı olarak sakkaroz veya stevya kullanımı ile hazırlanmasının ürün tercihi üzerine etkisi pilot ölçekli olarak araştırılmıştır. Soğuk çay ve limonata için en çok tercih edilen sakkaroz ve stevya derişimlerinin belirlenmesi amacıyla %2,5–12,5 düzeylerinde sakkaroz ve %0,5–0,75 düzeylerinde stevya içeren soğuk çay; %10–17,5 düzeylerinde sakkaroz ve %0,25–1,25 düzeylerinde stevya içeren limonata örnekleri ayrı ayrı hazırlanarak duyusal değerlendirmeye tabi tutulmuştur. Onbeş panelistin katılımıyla sıralama testi kullanılarak gerçekleştirilen duyusal değerlendirme sonucunda en çok tercih edilen derişimlerin sırasıyla soğuk çay için %10 sakkaroz ve %0,55 stevya, limonata için ise %15 sakkaroz ve %0,75 stevya olduğu belirlenmiştir. Soğuk çay ve limonatada tatlandırıcı olarak sakkaroz ve stevya kullanılmasının ürün tercihi üzerine etkisinin belirlenmesi amacıyla 20 panelistin katılımıyla gerçekleştirilen duyusal değerlendirme panelinde eşlenmiş kıyaslama testinden yararlanılmıştır. En çok tercih edilen sakkaroz ve stevya derişimlerine sahip soğuk çay ve limonata örneklerinin değerlendirilmesi sonucunda sakkaroz ve stevya kullanımının içeceklerin duyusal algılarında farklılık oluşturduğu ve her iki içecek için de sakkaroz kullanımının tercih edildiği (p< 0,001) belirlenmiştir.
Türk Mutfağında Yemek Kültürü ve Yemek Ritüelleri Üzerine Bir Araştırma: İl Kültür ve Turizm Müdürlüğü Web Siteleri Örneği (A Research on Food Culture and Food Rituals in Turkish Cuisine: The Case of the Provincial Directorate of Culture and Tourism Websites)
Authors: ÖNÇEL Sibel , BOZ Hasan Coşkun
Published: July 2023

Yemekle ilişkili davranışlar ve değerler coğrafyalar ve toplumlar arasında farklılık gösterir. Bu farklılaşmalar mutfak kültürünün zenginleşmesine katkıda bulunur. Zengin bir mutfak kültürüne sahip olan Türk Mutfağındaki yemek ritüellerinin tespit edilmesi amacıyla yapılan bu çalışmada, araştırma evreni Türkiye’deki 81 ilin İl Kültür ve Turizm Müdürlüğü (İKTM) web siteleri olarak belirlenmiştir. Konu ile ilgili 30 ilin web sitesinden elde edilen veriler içerik analizine tabi tutulmuş ve tespit edilen yemek ritüelleri alanyazındaki çalışmalardan da yararlanılarak 4 kategori altında ele alınmıştır. Bunlar geçiş dönemi ritüelleri, ağırlama ve uğurlama ritüelleri, özel gün ve kutlama ritüelleri, dinî gün ve bayram ritüelleridir. Araştırma bulgularına göre en sık ve ortak görülen yemek ritüelleri cenazelerde helva kavrulması ve yeni doğum yapmış annelere lohusa şerbetinin hazırlanmasıdır. En fazla veriye ulaşılan ritüel kategorisi geçiş dönemi, en az veriye ulaşılan kategori ise ağırlama ve uğurlama ritüelleridir. İKTM web sitelerinin yemek ritüelleri ve yemek kültürü konularındaki bilgileri ziyaretçilerine aktarmada yetersiz kaldığı sonucuna ulaşılmıştır.