bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic SLAM algorithm adopt with eliminating mismatched point chains in grid motion statistics
Authors: He Young , Yu Jiangtao , He Xiaochuan
Published: March 2024

Feature matching is an essential part in areas such as target tracking, and three-dimensional reconstruction. In case of rotational motion in the image, the rotating exercise core 8 statistical motion support volume is applied, resulting in low matching accuracy and long time to eliminate mismatching. A principal component analysis method is proposed to calculate rotation angle, feature points are changed in the grid and its neighborhood grid, which sets Gaussian threshold according to Euclid distance between neighborhood feature point and the matching feature point. And a new fractional statistical model is proposed to increase the number of correct matching pairs, So as to improve the fastness and accuracy of characteristic matching. Aiming at the problem of mismatch caused by local similarity of images, a data set is proposed to determine the data set by using geometric relationship between feature points, which analyzes the similarity between the data by the Person correlation coefficient, and sets the threshold to remove the feature matching pairs with low confidence, so as to improve the accuracy of feature matching. Experimental results show that the feature matching speed of the improved GMS algorithm is 3 times that of original GMS algorithm, and the false matching is eliminated in local similar region, which improves the quality of feature matching.
A Prospective Study of Post-transplantation Cyclophosphamide in Allogeneic Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Higher-risk MDS: A Comparative Analysis with ATG
Authors: Lee Je-Hwan , Choi Eun-Ji , Han Jin-Hee , Park Hyunkyung , Park Han-Seung , Choi Yunsuk , Lee Jung-Hee , Lee Kyoo-Hyung , Lee Young-Shin , Kang Young-Ah , Jeon Mijin , Kang Hyeran , Woo Ji Min
Published: March 2024

Post-transplantation cyclophosphamide (PTCy) has been increasingly used to prevent graft-versus-host disease (GVHD). This prospective study aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of PTCy-based GVHD prophylaxis in allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) for patients with higher-risk myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and compare post-transplantation outcomes between PTCy and anti-thymocyte globulin (ATG)-based regimen, as a historical control. The PTCy group (N = 152) showed a significantly lower incidence of grade II-IV acute GVHD (9.2 vs. 26.2%) and grade III-IV acute GVHD (2.6 vs. 15.9%) than the ATG group (N = 145), which was consistently observed across donor types. The incidence of moderate-to-severe chronic GVHD (22.7 vs. 23.1%), overall survival (2-years, 64.0 vs. 56.6%), and event-free survival (2-years, 52.6 vs. 51.7%) did not differ between the two groups. Neutrophil (15 vs. 11 d) and platelet engraftment times (25 vs. 15 d) were longer in the PTCy group. A trend towards lower non-relapse mortality (NRM, 2-years rate of 19.1 vs. 29.0%) and higher cumulative incidence of relapse (2-years rate of 27.8 vs. 17.2%) was observed in the PTCy group. In conclusion, allogeneic HCT using PTCy for higher-risk MDS demonstrated a significantly lower acute GVHD incidence with a favorable NRM and acceptable relapse rate.
Gall wasps change the biochemical composition of Eucalyptus leaves
Authors: Aytar Fatih , Keleş Yüksel
Published: March 2024

Gall wasps Leptocybe invasa and Ophelimus maskelli can cause loss of productivity by causing damage to Eucalyptus camaldulensis leaf tissues. Comparison of the biochemical compositions of noninfested and infested leaves may be useful to elucidate the roles of antioxidant defense compounds and antioxidant enzyme activities in protecting eucalyptus leaves against attack by insect pests. While glucose and fructose content increased in leaves infested by both gall wasps, proline content increased only in leaves infested by L. invasa. In flavonoid content, the reduction rate of 16.5% in leaves infested with L. invasa was 33.7% with O. maskelli. Total antioxidant capacity decreased with O. maskelli infestation but did not change with L. invasa infestation. Copper ion reduction capacity increased significantly with both pest infestations. Ascorbic acid increased by 87% in L. invasa infestation and 120% in O. maskelli infestation compared to control. The increase observed of superoxide dismutase activity in infested leaves was calculated as 29% for L. invasa and 20% for O. maskelli. O. maskelli infestation caused an increase in carotenoid content in non-infested leaves (total 7.29, Xan/Cds 5.0) but significantly decreased it in infested leaves (toplam 2.98, Xan/Cds 3.2). Superoxide generation rates of noninfested and infested leaves from the infested trees were found to be higher than those of the control samples. The biochemical composition of the infested and noninfested leaves of the infested plants also differs. The invasion of gall wasps triggers oxidative stress by increasing the rate of superoxide production in eucalyptus leaves.
RD-YOLO: Towards Power Components Identification and Rust defect Detection for Future Unmanned Transmission Lines Maintenance
Authors: Liu Chuanyang , Liu Jingjing , Wu Yiquan , Sun Zuo , Wu Weifeng
Published: March 2024

As a common defect type, rust defect of power components is one of the important hidden dangers that harm the safe operation of transmission lines. How to quickly and accurately discover and repair the rusted power components is an urgent problem to be solved in power inspection. Aiming at the above problem, in this study, a Rust-Defect YOLO (RD-YOLO) is proposed to perform power components identification and rust defect detection in aerial images. Firstly, Coordinate Channel Attention and Residual Module (CCARM) is proposed to enhance multi-scale detection precision, which is applied to the backbone CSPDarknet-53 to suppress the influence of background noise and enhance features extraction capability of power components. Secondly, Receptive Field Block (RFB) and Efficient Convolutional Block Attention Module (ECBAM) are introduced to PANet to strengthen deep and shallow features fusion, which alleviate the information reduction or loss of small targets, and reduce the inconsistency of features between different levels. Finally, Contrast sample strategy and Focal loss function are adopted to train and optimize RD-YOLO, and experiments are executed on a self-bulit dataset. Experimental results show that the mAP of power components identification reaches 92.33%, which is improved 7.82% compared with the original YOLOX. More importantly, the AP of rust defect detection attains 95%, which is increased by 18%, 20%, 11%, 9% and 5% compared with those of Faster R-CNN, SSD, YOLOv5, YOLOX and YOLOv7. Comparative experimental results demonstrate that the proposed model achieves good performance in power components identification and rust defect detection, and is promising for the future automatic visual inspection of transmission lines.
Effects of nano silicon, mycorrhiza and vermicompost on some physiological and biochemical traits of triticale (× Triticosecale Wittmak.) under salinity stress
Authors: Aghaei Fatemeh , sharifi Raouf Seyed Sharifi seyed
Published: March 2024

To study the effects of nano silicon (Si), mycorrhiza, and vermicompost on some physiological traits of triticale under salinity stress, a factorial experiment was conducted based on a randomized complete block design with three replications in 2021‒2022. Experimental factors included salinity at three levels [no-salt (control or S0), salinity 30 (S1), and 60 (S2) mM by NaCl equivalent to 1.71, 5.53, and 8.3 dS.m− 1, respectively], application of bio-organic fertilizers (no application (B0), application of vermicompost (B1), mycorrhiza (B2), and application both of vermicompost and mycorrhiza (B3)), and three nano Si levels (without nano Si as control (N0), application of 30 (N1), and 60 (N2) mg.L− 1). Means comparison revealed that under 60 mM salinity conditions, application of bio-organic fertilizers and 60 mg.L− 1 nano Si (B3N2) increased grain yield (29.62%), chlorophyll index (14.57, 16.78, and 20.38%), relative water content (12.39, 12.01, and 14.57%), and quantum yield (4.54, 6.6, and 14.62%) at booting, heading, and grain filling stages, respectively, in comparison with no application of these fertilizers and nano Si (B0N0) under severe salinity stress at the same stages as S2. However, under severe salinity stress, the application of bio-organic fertilizers and nano Si as B3N2 decreased electrical conductivity (14.71, 10.45, and 13.52%) at the booting, heading, and grain filling stages, respectively, as well as hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde content (43.94 and 49.71%, respectively) in comparison with S2B0N0. Based on the results, both mycorrhiza with vermicompost and foliar application of 60 mg.L− 1 nano Si under 60 mM salinity conditions could increase the activities of catalase (69.52%), peroxidase (67%), and polyphenol oxidase (69.52%) enzymes, proline (75.75%), soluble sugar content (55.63%), and anthocyanin content (64.28%) compared to no application of bio-organic fertilizers and nano Si under no salinity level. Overall, the application of bio-organic fertilizers and nano Si was beneficial for improving triticale plants' salinity resistance.
Effect of S-doped carbon nanotubes as a positive conductive agent in lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Huang Jinchao , Guo Ziting , Xiao Qingmei , Zeng Min , Zhong Shengwen
Published: March 2024

In this paper, sulfur-doped carbon nanotubes were synthesized and modified at 600, 700 and 800°C. The results showed that the amount of sulfur doped in carbon nanotubes increased with the increase of temperature, which were 0.78%, 0.98%, and 1.07%, respectively, but the carbon/sulfur binding mode did not change. At the same time, sulfur doping significantly increased the specific surface area, which was conducive to improving the infiltration of the electrolyte into the electrode piece. Sulfur-doped carbon nanotubes are used as conductive agents for the cathode NCM523 of lithium-ion batteries, and compared with untreated carbon nanotubes, they effectively improve the battery polarization, reduce the internal resistance, and greatly improve the ratio performance, and in terms of cycling performance, the capacity retention rate of the battery is increased from 71.3% to 81 ~ 85%.
Perceived Benefits and Awareness of the Adverse Effects of Energy Drinks Among Consumers in Ayawaso North and Ayawaso East
Authors: MOHAMMED ABDULRAHEEM
Published: March 2024

The consumption of energy drinks is increasingly reaching alarming heights among populations. Consumers hold several perceived benefits that drives them to continuously consume them. Despite the enourmous negative health impacts that have been linked to their consumption, consumers are unaware of the several adverse effects and other health complications that can arise from energy drinks. It is important to step up public health education and advocacy to enlighten the public about the potential health hazards associated with energy drinks.
Practices and Attitudes of Adult Psychiatrists Regarding Methamphetamine-Associated Psychotic Disorder: An Internet Based Survey Conducted in Turkey
Authors: Örüm Mehmet Hamdi , Kapıcı Yaşar , Sönmez Doğancan , Tanrıkulu Ali Baran , Gümüşay-Uğur Merve , Koçhan Onur , Örüm Dilek , Hocaoğlu Çiçek
Published: March 2024

Purposes: Many variables such as psychiatric training, experiences, institution, and region characteristics may affect approaches of psychiatrists to methamphetamine-associated psychotic disorder (MAP) treatment. This study was aimed to reach adult psychiatrists actively practicing in Turkey through an internet-based survey and to determine their practices and attitudes to MAP treatment.
Methods: This was an internet-based, double-blind, quantitative, cross-sectional, psychiatrist approach-based observational survey. Participants were divided into three groups based on their answers: Those who do not follow-up any MAP patient were group 1 (n=78), partially involved in the treatment process of at least one patient diagnosed with MAP were group 2 (n=128), completely involved in the treatment process of at least one patient diagnosed with MAP were group 3 (n=202).
Results: There was a significant difference between the three groups in terms of age (p<0.001), working duration in psychiatry (p<0.001), and institution and psychiatric training characteristics (p<0.001). Psychotropic preferences in insomnia (p<0.001), typical oral antipsychotic choice (p<0.001), preferred doses of olanzapine/risperidone/aripiprazole/amisulpride for maintenance treatment (p<0.001), long-acting injectable antipsychotic use practices (p<0.001), non-antipsychotic psychotropic use characteristics (p<0.001), extrapyramidal system side effect experiences (p<0.001), delirium and life-threatening situations encounter rates (p<0.001) were significantly different between group 2 and group 3. While the duration of maintenance with antipsychotics in the first MAP episode was similar between group 2 and group 3 (p=0.254), it was different in the second and subsequent MAP episodes (p<0.05). The attitudes of male and female participants were similar on almost all issues. A binary logistic regression model containing the experiences of LAI antipsychotic use, extrapyramidal system side effect and delirium was created (overall p<0.001, Nagelkerke R2=0.435; Hosmer and Lemeshow test p=0.203).
Conclusions: This first study in the field, which examines the current issue in detail, reveals that there are many factors that seriously affect psychiatrists' approaches to MAP treatment in Turkey. The most important result of this study is that psychiatrists make courageous decisions as their experience participating in all phases of MAP treatment increases.
8-week Combined Exercise Protocol Promote Health and Cardiovascular Benefits in Obese Women by Epigenetic Modifications: a Prospective Study
Authors: Brandão Camila Fernanda Cunha , Rodrigues Guilherme Silva , Noronha Natália Yumi , Nicoletti Carolina F , Junqueira-Franco Marcia VM , Alves Cleidson Padua , Diani Luísa Maria , Carvalho Flavia G , Freitas Ellen C , Nonino Carla B , Marchini Julio S
Published: March 2024

Background: It is known that obesity can be affected by genetic and epigenetic alterations, however little is known about the DNA methylation markers related to health promotion interventions aiming weigh loss. This study explored the effects of an 8-week integrated strength and aerobic training protocol on the DNA methylation patterns in obese women.
Methods: 13 women with a BMI of 33±2 kg/m², aged 34±5 years, underwent evaluation of body composition, waist circumference, physical performance (VO2max), and peripheral blood collection for DNA methylation analysis (EPIC Beadchip Illumina) before and after eight weeks of combined physical training intervention (3 times/week, 55 minutes/session, 70-90% of max HR).
Results: The intervention yielded noteworthy clinical enhancements, encompassing diminished waist circumference, fat mass, and increased VO2 max (p<0.05). In DNA methylation, we identified 16 Differentially Methylated Regions (DMRs) encompassing 103 CpG sites. Most of these regions were mainly located in promoters’ regions (TSS1500 and TSS200). Among the identified DMRs, 8 exhibited hypomethylation, while the remaining 8 showed hypermethylation after exercise protocol. Enrichment analysis unveiled pathways linked to cardiac, immune, and thermogenic functions.
Conclusion: Combined physical training can promote modifications in the DNA methylation profile at CpG sites in genes involved in energy metabolism pathways, increase physical performance, and reduce body fat and waist circumference. Regardless of weight loss, the exercise protocol may promote protection against cardiovascular diseases through epigenetic modifications.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov (NTC 03119350).
Stochastic resonance array for designing noise-boosted filter banks to enhance weak multi-harmonic fault characteristics of machinery
Authors: Qiao Zijian , Zhang Chenglong , Zhang Cailiang , Ma Xin , Zhu Ronghua , Lai Zhihui , Zhou Shengtong
Published: March 2024

The role of potential-well width and potential-barrier height or potential-well depth in a triple-well potential on SR has not been investigated separately yet and the effect of a both uniform depth and different depth between left/right potential well and middle well in a triple-well potential on SR has not been explored yet. Meanwhile, SR is used to weak signal detection and early fault diagnosis, but it often processes a complex signal into a sine shaped one, resulting in the loss of multi-harmonic signature embedded in the raw signal. To avoid this, this paper investigates underdamped SR induced by a symmetric triple-well potential with a uniform depth. Then, a SR array based noise-boosted filter bank method is proposed to enhance weak multi-harmonic fault characteristics for early fault diagnosis of machinery. Theoretical results indicate that tristable SR induced by a symmetric triple-well potential with a uniform depth is superior to that induced by a symmetric triple-well potential with a different depth. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method is able to enhance weak multi-harmonic fault characteristics for early fault diagnosis of roller bearings.
The role of fines content and particle size ratio on the load-bearing structure of binary granular soil: A micromechanical approach
Authors: Nia Fatemeh Vahidi , Bayesteh Hamed , Khodaparast Mahdi
Published: March 2024

The particle size ratio and fines content are the most important factors influencing the behavior of binary graded granular soil. Previous studies have focused more on the effects of the fabric, particle size distribution and fines content on the macroscopic response of binary mixtures. The effect of the fines participation factor (β) on the load-bearing structure of binary graded soil and estimation of this parameter (β) from the macro and micromechanical perspectives have rarely been evaluated. The present study used a micro-mechanical approach and DEM to evaluate the global void ratio (e), intergranular void ratio (e*) and the contribution of the fines content to the load-bearing structure of binary graded soil during drained and undrained tests. The effects of the particle size ratio, fines content, initial packing density and confining pressure on β also have been evaluated. The results showed that e* is a more reliable parameter than e for interpreting the behavior of binary graded soil. In a binary graded mixture that contains coarse and fine grains, β increased non-linearly and lower values of β were obtained for denser samples. With an increase in the particle size ratio, the values of β and microscopic parameters such as the coarse-fine (C-F) particle contact decreased. The decrease in the C-F particle contact caused a decrease in β. An equation is proposed to estimate β based on the fines content and particle size ratio of the binary mixtures.
Rheumatoid Arthritis and Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes: A Bidirectional Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Chang Tongmin , Zhao Zengle , Liu Xiaoyan , Zhang Xuening , Zhang Yuan , Liu Xinjie , Lu Ming , zhang Yuan
Published: March 2024

Background
There is growing evidence of bidirectional associations between rheumatoid arthritis and adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) in observational studies, but little is known about the causal direction of these associations. Therefore, we explored the potential causal relationships between rheumatoid arthritis and APOs using a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR).
Methods
We conducted a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization analysis using available summary statistics from released genome-wide association studies. Summary statistics for instrument–outcome associations were retrieved from two separate databases for rheumatoid arthritis and adverse pregnancy outcomes, respectively. The inverse-variance weighted method was used as the primary MR analysis. MR-Egger, MR pleiotropy residual sum and outlier (MR-PRESSO), and Cochran Q statistic method were implemented as sensitivity analyses approach to ensure the robustness of the results.
Results
Our study showed that a higher risk of genetically predicted rheumatoid arthritis was associated with gestational hypertension (OR: 1.04, 95%CI: 1.02–1.06), pre-eclampsia (OR: 1.06, 95%CI: 1.01–1.11), fetal growth restriction (OR: 1.08, 95%CI: 1.04–1.12), preterm delivery (OR:1.04, 95%CI: 1.01–1.07). Furthermore, we found no evidence that APOs had causal effects on rheumatoid arthritis in the reverse MR analysis. There was no heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy.
Conclusions
This MR analysis provides evidence of a positive causal association between rheumatoid arthritis and gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia, fetal growth restriction and preterm delivery genetically. It highlights the importance of more intensive prenatal care and early intervention among pregnant women with rheumatoid arthritis to prevent potential adverse obstetric outcomes.
Late-onset propionic acidemia with epilepsy due to compound heterozygous variants in the PCCB gene: a case report and literature review
Authors: Shi Yuqing , Wei Zihan , Gan Yajing , Li Guoyan , Feng Yan , Deng Yanchun
Published: March 2024

Propionic acidemia is an autosomal recessively inherited metabolic disorder attributed to a mutation in the PCCA or PCCB gene resulting in a lack of propionyl coenzyme A carboxylase, which permits an abnormal accumulation of propionate and its metabolite precursors in the body. The clinical presentation and severity of propionic acidemia vary widely among patients, and late-onset propionic acidemia might manifest at any stage of life, including infancy, childhood, or even later. In this paper, a case of late-onset propionic acidemia with epilepsy caused by compound heterozygous variations of the PCCB gene was reported. The pathogenic gene, accessory examination, diagnosis, treatment, etc., were investigated, and related written works were reviewed to advance clinicians' understanding of the findings and treatment of the illness.
Bidirectional Mendelian randomization study shows causal relationship between high- altitude adaptation and liver diseases
Authors: Wu Tianzhun , Li Ruofan , Liu Juanjuan , Gao Xing , Huang Shilin , Li Shizhou , Zeng Dandan , Luo Wenfeng , Lin Yan , Ye Jiazhou , Liang Rong
Published: March 2024

To investigate the causality between high-altitude adaptation (HAA) and multiple liver diseases, we applied a Mendelian randomization (MR) study. The genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of HAA and eleven phenotypes of liver diseases/traits were used for this study, including autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), hepatic bile duct cancer (BtC), chronic hepatitis-B (CHB), chronic hepatitis-C (CHC), γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GTT), acute hepatitis by hepatitis-A virus (HAV), hepatic cancer (HepC) and total bilirubin (TBil). Our study genetically predicted a significant causal impact of HAA on GTT (odds ratio, 1.601; 95% CI, 1.204–2.129; P = 0.0012). An interesting finding emerged that the association between GGT and HAA also reached statistically significant even the causal direction was reversed (odds ratio, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.003–1.011; P = 0.0013). In conclusions, our study indicates a mutually causal association between HAA and GGT. These novel insights may facilitate the design of targeted preventive measures and therapeutic interventions for both liver diseases and the process of adapt to plateau environment.
Nanoplatelet orientation and Young’s modulus of graphene/phenoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Lin Han , Potluri Prasad , Sampson William W. , Wilkinson Arthur
Published: March 2024

We report on the development of phenoxy-graphene nano-composite fibres for improving the toughness of thermoset composites. In this paper, a systematic experimental investigation into the underlying mechanisms of graphene nanoplatelets (GNP) reinforcement of phenoxy nanocomposite fibres prepared via melt spinning. The analysis reveals a tangential orientation of GNP in the outer layer of the fibres, while such orientation is absent in the fibre core region. We show that the relative size of the fibre sheath depends on process variables and exhibits a linear relationship with the modulus of GNP (Ef) obtained via theoretical analysis using simple rule of mixtures (RoM). This is because the area ratio (AR) is proportional to the orientation degree (η0) of GNP. This indicates that the enhancement of the Young’s modulus of fibres is mainly originated from the increased AR of the fibre sheath layer where the orientation of GNP is more regular, resulting in variations in the stress transfer efficiency between GNP and phenoxy matrix in the fibre sheath and core regions.
Comparative transcriptomics uncovers apoptosis in brain impairment in newly pupated honeybee worker under cold stress
Authors: Zhu Xiangjie , Cao Mingjie , Xu Hongzhi , Tian Yuanmingyue , Zhu Chenyu , Zhou Bingfeng , Li Han , Yao Meihong , Zhang Zhining , Zhou Shujing , Xu Xinjian
Published: March 2024

Background
Honeybees have a much narrower developmental temperature range compared to other insects, making it an ideal model species for studying temperature effect on insect metamorphosis. Cold exposure during pupal stage resulted in impaired learning, memory, and foraging ability in adults. So far, the understanding of molecular mechanisms and physiological processes underlying the impaired brain development of honeybee pupae under cold exposure is unclear.
Result
The transcriptome data used in this study were collected from the heads of white-eyed honeybee pupae between control group and cold-treated groups. A total of 736 significantly differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were found to be shared by the different durations of cold treatment, and three gene clusters with significant expression patterns were identified using gene expression trend analysis, and RT-qPCR verification was performed on six genes. Enrichment analyses of each cluster using GO and KEGG database showed that upregulated DEGs followed by a plateau were significantly enriched in apoptosis, axon regeneration and signalling pathways regulating pluripotency of stem cells genes, consistently upregulated DEGs were significantly enriched in MAPK signalling pathway, and the downregulated DEGs followed by a plateau were related to insect ecdysteroids synthesis (phm and spookiest), epigenetic regulation of genes associated with brain development (LSD1), endoplasmic reticulum-associated protein degradation (RNF5 and SVIP) and regulation of endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated cell apoptosis (FBXO32, PET191 and UBL5).
Conclusion
Our study suggests that cold stress will inhibit the synthesis of ecdysteroids, disrupt gene epigenetic regulation, and intensify endoplasmic reticulum stress-associated brain cell apoptosis, thus hinder brain development in new pupal heads.
Role of P2X7 receptor during low-intensity focused ultrasound- induced blood-brain barrier modulation
Authors: Park Junwon , Na Young Cheol , Lee Jihyeon , Kim Hojin , Han Sangheon , Song Byeong-Wook , Chang Won Seok
Published: March 2024

Background
Although low-intensity focused ultrasound (LiFUS) with microbubbles is used to temporally open the blood-brain barrier (BBB), the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. This study aimed to analyze BBB-related alterations in the brain microenvironment after LiFUS, with a focus on the involvement of the purinergic P2X7 receptor.
Methods
Sprague-Dawley rats were sonicated with LiFUS at 0.3 MPa energy. The impact of LiFUS on the P2X7 receptor and inflammatory-related proteins, including NLRP3 and interleukin-1β, was analyzed through western blotting. The BBB-associated tight junction proteins, zonula occludens-1 (ZO-1) and occludin, were also analyzed. BBB permeability was assessed by quantifying the amount of Evans blue dye penetration using spectrophotometry. Furthermore, the safety of the sonication procedure was verified via terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and hematoxylin and eosin staining.
Results
Substantial increases in the P2X7 receptor and its downstream signaling were confirmed after sonicating the BBB with LiFUS for 1 h (p < 0.05). Conversely, for tight junction proteins, the lowest expression was observed at 1 h (p < 0.001). Both responses were normalized back to the original state over time. No evidence of brain damage was observed during the procedure. Furthermore, the P2X7 receptor antagonist-injected group showed reduced Evans blue dye penetration compared to that 1 h after FUS, indicating a mitigated impact of LiFUS on the BBB.
Conclusions
Herein, we elucidate the underlying mechanism by which LiFUS affects the BBB, with a focus on the involvement of the P2X7 receptor. Our findings demonstrate that the extent of BBB opening varies upon the regulation of the P2X7 receptor. This study provides valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying BBB modulation through LiFUS, thereby laying the foundation for expanding its applications.
Morphological evidence for the potential protective effects of curcumin and Garcinia kola against diabetes in the rat hippocampus
Authors: Denizci Eda , Altun Gamze , Kaplan Süleyman
Published: March 2024

This research investigated the effects of sciatic nerve transection and diabetes on the hippocampus, and the protective effects of Garcinia kola and curcumin. Thirty-five adult male Wistar albino rats were divided into five groups: a control group (Cont), a transected group (Sham group), a transected + diabetes mellitus group (DM), a transected + diabetes mellitus + Garcinia kola group (DM + GK), and a transected + DM + curcumin group (DM + Cur), each containing seven animals. The experimental diabetes model was created with the intraperitoneal injection of a single dose of streptozotocin. No procedure was applied to the Cont group, while sciatic nerve transection was performed on the other groups. Garcinia kola was administered to the rats in DM + GK, and curcumin to those in DM + Cur. Cardiac perfusion was performed at the end of the experimental period. Brain tissues were dissected for stereological, histopathological, and immunohistochemical evaluations. The volume ratios of hippocampal layers to the entire hippocampus volume were compared between the groups. Anti-S100, anti-caspase 3, and anti-SOX 2 antibodies were used for immunohistochemical analysis. No statistically significant difference was observed in the volume ratios of the four hippocampal layers. However, the volume ratio of the stratum lucidum was higher in the Sham, DM, and DM + Cur groups compared to the Cont group. While curcumin exhibited a protective effect on hippocampal tissue following diabetes induction, Garcinia kola had only a weak protective effect. Increased cell density and nuclear deterioration due to diabetes and nerve transection can be partially ameliorated by treatment with Garcinia kola and curcumin.
Nonlinear optimal and flatness-based control for the multivariable Lotka-Volterra dynamics
Authors: Rigatos Gerasimos , Wira Patrice , Siano Pierluigi , Abbaszadeh Masoud
Published: March 2024

The multivariable Lokta-Volterra dynamic model has been widely used to describe interacting and competing populations and has found applications in biology, ecology, agricultural production management and in economics. In this article a nonlinear optimal (H-infinity) control method is developed for the Lotka-Volterra system. First, differential flatness properties are proven for the associated state-space model. Next, the state-space description undergoes approximate linearization with the use of first-order Taylor series expansion and through the computation of the associated Jacobian matrices. The linearization process takes place at each sampling instance around a time-varying operating point which is defined by the present value of the system's state vector and by the last sampled value of the control inputs vector. For the approximately linearized model of the system a stabilizing H-infinity feedback controller is designed. To compute the controller's gains an algebraic Riccati equation has to be repetitively solved at each time-step of the control algorithm. The global stability properties of the control scheme are proven through Lyapunov analysis. Finally, the performance of the nonlinear optimal control method is compared against a flatness-based control approach implemented in successive loops.
Optimierung der Lehrkräftefort- und -weiterbildung: Erwartungen, Erfahrungen und Bedürfnisse im Fokus
Authors: Bärnreuther Cindy
Published: March 2024

Die Studie untersucht Erfolgsfaktoren von Lehrkräftefort- und -weiterbildungen im Bereich der digitalen Bildung. Im Fokus steht die Identifikation von förderlichen und hinderlichen Bedingungen von Fort- und Weiterbildungsangeboten. Diese reichen von niedrigschwelligen Praxisorientierungen bis hin zu zeitlichen und personellen Engpässen an Schulen. Der Beitrag beleuchtet Defizite in der Lehrkräftebildung, insbesondere im Bereich der Medienpädagogik sowie -didaktik und zeigt auf, wie digitale Kompetenzen angehender Lehrkräfte von Praktizierenden wahrgenommen werden. Durch die Analyse von Erwartungen und Erfahrungen werden Erkenntnisse zu den Bedürfnissen und Wünschen der Lehrkräftefort- und Weiterbildung sowie zu deren Optimierung gewonnen. Die Ergebnisse bieten Einblicke in die aktuellen Herausforderungen der Lehrpraxis an Grundschulen im Kontext des Unterrichtens und Lernens mit digitalen Medien. Auch unterstreichen sie die Notwendigkeit einer kontinuierlichen Evaluation und Anpassung der Lehrkräftebildung sowie die Einführung von Anreizen für die Teilnahme an medienpädagogischen und -didaktischen Angeboten. Auf dieser Grundlage werden forschungs- und praxisrelevante Implikationen beschrieben, um die Weiterentwicklung und Ausgestaltung von Angeboten der Lehrkräftebildung zu fördern.
LA MICROFINANCE VERTE : VERS UNE INTEGRATION DU DISCOURS DE TRIPLE PERFORMANCE PAR LES INSTITUTIONS DE MICROFINANCE CONGOLAISES
Authors:   Professeure, CRIDESS, Universite Protestante au Congo., Aliango Marachto Dede , Ntumba Baruani Princia ,   Diplomee en Economie, CRIDESS, Universite Protestante au Congo.
Published: March 2024

La microfinance sest proposee comme une alternative aux systemes financiers traditionnels qui ne servent pas les populations a faibles revenus, les considerant comme trop risquees et non viables, en proposant a cette niche de la population des produits et services financiers adaptes a leur realite economique. Cependant, leffectivite de cette potentialite est tributaire de la capacite des IMF a concilier leur triple objectif de resultat : inclure un maximum possible de personnes a faible revenu et renforcer leur resilience face aux risques environnementaux, tout en realisant de bonnes performances financieres. Ainsi, cette etude tente de comprendre si les IMF font face a un arbitrage entre les performances sociale et environnementale, et la performance financiere dune part, et la nature de la contribution de loffre des produits financiers verts sur leur performance financiere dautre part. En utilisant un panel de trois (3) IMF en RDC avec le modele de regression Ridge a effets aleatoires sur la periode allant de 2019 a 2022, les resultats demontrent que les IMF ne sont pas necessairement confrontees a un arbitrage entre les trois dimensions de leurs missions, et que loffre des produis financiers verts ameliore la performance financiere des IMF.
AUTOMEDICATION PAR LES INHIBITEURS DE LA POMPE A PROTONS CHEZ LE PERSONNEL DE SANTE
Authors:   Universite Abdelmalek Esaadi, Service de Gastroenterologie, CHU Mohamed VI, Tanger, Maroc., Grihe L. , Ouaya H. ,   Universite Abdelmalek Esaadi, Service de Gastroenterologie, CHU Mohamed VI, Tanger, Maroc., Meyiz H. ,   Universite Abdelmalek Esaadi, Service de Gastroenterologie, CHU Mohamed VI, Tanger, Maroc., Mellouki I. ,   Universite Abdelmalek Esaadi, Service de Gastroenterologie, CHU Mohamed VI, Tanger, Maroc.
Published: March 2024

Les IPP sont devenus depuis quelques temps parmi les medicaments les plus prescrits en medecine generale, et prescrits dans de nombreuses indications pour leur efficacite,leur profil de tolerance mais aussi pour leur securite. Les effets secondaires et indesirables sont souvent ignores et du fait de leurs benefices ainsi les rendant des medicaments sur prescrits mais aussi avec des risques et effets indesirables et secondaires non negligeables. Cependant, leur accÃ¨s libre leur donne la susceptibilite detre les medicaments les plus utilises en automedication. Notre etude avait pour objet devaluer la frequence et les modalites de lautomedication par les IPP chez le personnel de sante exerÃ§ant au sein de CHU Mohamed VI de Tanger. Pour cela nous avons mene une etude prospective descriptive transversale pour levaluer. Conflit dinteret: Pas de conflit.
ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGET LDL-C IN TYPE 2 DM PATIENTS IN SAUDI ARABIA
Authors: Alolayan Laura , Al Rajeh Ghadah
Published: March 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most common diseases in the world and Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is among the most common preventable complication of DM. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is known to be a major risk factor for developing CVD. Many guidelines have suggested that controlling LDL-C can contribute to lower the mortality among CVD patients. Aim: To assess Achievement of Target LDL-C in type 2 DM patients in Saudi Arabia, and the prevalence of Lipid lowering agents use among these patients. Data sources: PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, Embase, and Google Scholar. Methods: Non interventional retrospective cross sectional study. Results: The study included 100 patients, age range was between 25 Â– 82 years old with a Mean age of 51,60. 51% of the participants were males, while 49% were females. 23% of the patients had optimal LDL cholesterol levels below 1,8 mmol/L, while 77% of had suboptimal levels above 1,8 mmol/L. SpearmanÂ’s rank correlation was computed to assess the relationship between LDL and BMI. There was a positive correlation between the two variables, r = 0,071, p = 0,484. The correlation was not significant at the 0,05 level of significance. SpearmanÂ’s rank correlation was computed to assess the relationship between LDL and A1C. There was a positive correlation between the two variables, r = 0,051, p = 0,612. The correlation was not significant at the 0,05 level of significance. The most used medication for lowering cholesterol was atorvastatin, which was taken by 64% of the patients, followed by rosuvastatin, 23% of the patients, 4% of the patients used simvastatin, and 9% of the patients did not receive any treatment and was not offered to them in their follow up visit. 54% of patients who were receiving Lipid lowering therapy did not had dose adjustments during their regular follow up. Conclusion: It is extremely important to achive targeted LDL-C in diabetic patients. Physicians should always aim to reach the targeted level by following the latest guidelines and encouraging patients compliance to medications and lifestyle modifications hence preventing the complications.
Watershed water policy based on a glacier water service perspective in the typical glacier basins, Western China
Authors: Sun Zhenqi , Wang Shijin , Wang Lixia
Published: March 2024

Taking the Yangtze River Source Basin (YRSB) and Shule River Basin (SRB) as two typical cases, the sustainability of the water resources in these two basins was evaluated using the level of water stress (LWS) from sustainable development goal 6.4.2, and the regulating effect of the glacier runoff on the LWS was quantified. From 2000 to 2030, the level of socioeconomic development in the YRSB is low, and the total water consumption is only about 0.18 × 108 m3, whereas the SRB has a relatively high level of socioeconomic development and total water consumption is about 10 × 108 m3, i.e., 50 times higher than that in the YRSB. For the aforementioned reasons, the SRB's LWS is much higher than the YRSB's, resulting in a very low sustainability of water resources. As natural assets, glaciers flow downstream in the runoff mode, so compensation at the watershed scale should be considered. In the basin, the optimal allocation of water resources is needed. At the inter-basin scale, the compensation mechanism of glacier water resources needs to be improved.
Comparative study of wastewater treatment efficiency: ozone vs. atmospheric oxygen with a manganese dioxide catalyst
Authors: Umbetova Sholpan , Abylkassova Gulzhan , Spitsov Dmitriy
Published: March 2024

This study aims to validate the wastewater treatment technique and compare the effectiveness of applying an ozone mixture and atmospheric oxygen in the presence of a catalyst (manganese dioxide) with various dosages. A total of 540 replicates were performed, corresponding to different levels of manganese dioxide concentrations during oxygen and ozone delivery (270 repetitions for each of the experiments). The research was carried out using an experimental setup developed by the authors. The maximum efficiency of oxidation processes was observed within 15–30 min after the start of the treatment cycle. The decrease in the level of chemical oxygen demand within the first quarter-hour during ozone treatment was significantly greater compared to atmospheric oxygen treatment (p ≤ 0.05). The method's efficiency increased to 53% for ozone and 41% for oxygen after 30 min of purification (p ≤ 0.05). Lower catalyst consumption was observed when using an ozone mixture. The tested technology can be recommended for wastewater treatment with high hydrocarbon concentrations. The findings of the study indicated the potential application of ozone treatment with a manganese catalyst for treating wastewater with high hydrocarbon content, thereby fostering the development of more effective water purification methods in the industrial sector.
Uma reflexão filosófica-interdisciplinar sobre ética da informação
Authors: Fefin Machado Gabriel , Moroni Juliana
Published: March 2024

O objetivo deste trabalho é investigar a natureza ontológica e epistemológica do conceito de informação, focalizando inicialmente a Filosofia e Ética da Informação (EI), propostas por Floridi (1999; 2002; 2004; 2011; 2016), cujo fundamento teórico servirá de suporte para reflexões acerca da inteligência artificial generativa (IAGen), mais especificamente, o ChatGPT. O conceito de informação será abordado a partir de três vertentes na perspectiva filosófico-interdisciplinar: (1) realismo informacional, (2) ecologia informacional e (3) semântica informacional, segundo Gonzalez, Nascimento & Haselager (2004). A partir dessa abordagem, direcionamos nosso estudo para propostas de Floridi (2004), indicando os seus possíveis problemas. Procuraremos entender a Filosofia da Informação, a partir da perspectiva da Ética da Informação (EI), analisando como a EI pode contribuir para reflexões acerca do uso de IA generativa. Problematizamos a EI a fim de construir uma ponte com a Ética Intercultural da Informação (EII) proposta por Capurro (2010).
Evaluation of Efficacy of Curcumin and Caffeic Acid Phenethyl Ester
in Breast Cancer by Preclinical Studies
Authors: Verma Sumit Singh , Avadhesh  , Srivastava Ankit , Shekher Anusmita , Dhasmana Anupam , Narula Acharan Singh , Gupta Subash Chandra
Published: March 2024

Aims::

The aim of this study was to evaluate the combined and comparative efficacy of
Caffeic acid phenethyl ester (CAPE) and curcumin in breast cancer.

background:

CAPE and curcumin are a class of phenolics. While curcumin is obtained from turmeric, CAPE is found in Baccharis sarothroides and Populus deltoides. Both agents are reported to produce activities in some cancer types. The combined and the comparative effects of two agents in breast cancer is not yet reported.

objective:

We evaluated the potential of CAPE and curcumin in both in vitro and in vivo breast cancer models.

method:

Human breast cancer cell lines, MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 were exposed to CAPE and curcumin followed by functional assays such as cell cytotoxicity, cell proliferation and colony formation, cell cycle, mitochondrial membrane potential, apoptosis, and monodansylcadaverine (MDC) staining for autophagy. Computational analyses and mice model were also used.

result:

Employing computational analyses, both agents were found to exhibit drug like properties. Both molecules interacted with the key molecules of the NF-B pathway. CAPE and curcumin inhibited cell proliferation, colony formation, and invasion, and triggered apoptosis and autophagy in breast cancer cells. CAPE was found to be more effective in comparison to curcumin. Two agents working together were more effective than each agent working alone. Both agents suppressed the expression of survivin, Bcl-xL and GLUT-1. Further, cleaved PARP was increased by both agents. An induction in ROS generation was observed by both phenolics. Further, both molecules triggered a dissipation in mitochondrial membrane potential. In mice model implanted with Ehrlich-Lettre ascites carcinoma (EAC) cells, both drugs inhibited the growth of the tumour. The phenolics also modulated the metabolic parameters in tumour bearing mice.

conclusion:

The observations suggest that the combination of curcumin plus CAPE may be better in comparison to individual molecule.

other:

The study opens a window for analysing the efficacy of combination of CAPE and curcumin by more animal studies. This will provide a basis for examining the combined efficacy of two agents by clinical trial.
The Metabolism of the New Benzodiazepine Remimazolam
Authors: Schmalix Wolfgang , Petersen Karl-Uwe , Pesic Marija , Stöhr Thomas
Published: March 2024

Background::

Remimazolam (RMZ) is a novel ultrashort-acting benzodiazepine used for sedation
by intravenous administration. The pharmacophore of RMZ includes a carboxyl ester group sensitive to esterase-
mediated hydrolysis, which is the primary path of metabolic elimination. However, for the sake of drug
safety, a deeper and broader knowledge of the involved metabolic pathways and the evolving metabolites is required.
Information is needed on both humans and experimental animals to evaluate the possibility that humans
form harmful metabolites not encountered in animal toxicity studies.

Objective::

The current study aimed at identifying the mechanisms of remimazolam's metabolism and any potential
clinically significant metabolites.

Method::

Using tissue homogenates from various animals and humans, the liver was identified as the tissue
primarily responsible for the elimination of RMZ. CNS7054, the hydrolysis product of remimazolam, was
identified as the only clinically relevant metabolite. Using bacterial or eukaryotic over-expression systems, carboxylesterase
1 (CES1) was identified as the iso-enzyme predominantly involved in RMZ metabolism, with
no role for carboxylesterase 2. Using a variety of inhibitors of other esterases, the contribution to elimination
mediated by esterases other than CES1 was excluded.

Results::

Besides tissue carboxylesterases, rodents expressed an RMZ esterase in plasma, which was not present
in this compartment in other laboratory animals and humans, hampering direct comparisons. Other pathways
of metabolic elimination, such as oxidation and glucuronidation, also occurred, but their contribution to
overall elimination was minimal.

Conclusion::

Besides the pharmacologically non-active metabolite CNS7054, no other clinically significant
metabolite of remimazolam could be identified.