bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anoikis in prostate cancer bone metastasis gene signatures and therapeutic implications
Authors: Xia Wei , Ye Miao , Jiang Bo , Xu Gang , Xiao Guancheng , Zeng Qingming , Huang Ruohui
Published: September 2024

Background

Bone metastasis from prostate cancer severely impacts patient outcomes and quality of life. Anoikis, a form of programmed cell death triggered by the loss of cell-matrix interactions, plays a critical role in cancer progression. However, its precise relationship with prostate cancer-induced bone metastasis remains unclear. This study aims to elucidate this relationship, focusing on anoikis-related gene signatures, molecular pathways, and therapeutic implications.

Methods

We used the TCGA-PRAD dataset for training, with MSKCC and GSE70769 as validation cohorts. To evaluate immunotherapy efficacy, we examined IMvigor 210 and GSE91016 datasets, and GSE137829 provided single-cell insights into prostate cancer. Specific anoikis-related genes (ARGs) were identified, and Random Survival Forest analysis and multivariate Cox regression were employed to develop anoikis-linked features. The ‘clustanoikisProfilanoikis’ and ‘GSEA’ packages were used to explore potential ARG-related pathways.

Results

Analyzing 553 samples from TCGA, 231 from MSKCC, 94 from GSE70769, and single-cell data from 6 prostate cancer patients (GSE137829), we constructed a prognostic model based on 9 ARGs. GSVA revealed upregulation of carcinogenic pathways, including epithelial-mesenchymal transition, E2F targets, and angiogenesis, with downregulation of metabolic pathways. Significant differences in somatic mutations were observed between cohorts, with a positive correlation between anoikis scores and tumor mutational burden (TMB). Immune landscape analysis suggested high-risk patients might benefit more from chemotherapy than immunotherapy based on their risk score. Single-cell analysis indicated overactivation of carcinogenic pathways in the high anoikis score group.

Conclusion

This study elucidates the complex interplay between anoikis and bone metastasis in prostate cancer. Our findings highlight the critical role of anoikis in metastatic progression, enhancing the understanding of key biomarkers and molecular dynamics. The identified anoikis-related gene signatures and disrupted pathways offer promising avenues for predictive and therapeutic strategies in prostate cancer management.
Targeted therapy of non-small cell lung cancer: mechanisms and clinical trials
Authors: Yu Le , Yang Ruoyi , Long Zeng , Tao Qingxiu , Liu Bin
Published: September 2024

Lung cancer is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally, and traditional chemotherapy has limited efficacy in treating advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In recent years, the prognosis for patients with NSCLC has significantly improved due to the development of new treatment modalities, including targeted therapies. Targeted therapies utilize monoclonal antibodies (mAbs), antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), or small molecule tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) directed against specific mutated genes such as EGFR and ALK. The development of these drugs has deepened our understanding of NSCLC and improved treatment outcomes for patients. This review aims to summarize the mechanisms and current status of targeted therapy for NSCLC, discuss strategies to overcome acquired resistance, and address current challenges in the field.
Empowering patients: how accurate and readable are large language models in renal cancer education
Authors: Halawani Abdulghafour , Almehmadi Sultan G. , Alhubaishy Bandar A. , Alnefaie Ziyad A. , Hasan Mudhar N.
Published: September 2024

Background

The incorporation of Artificial Intelligence (AI) into healthcare sector has fundamentally transformed patient care paradigms, particularly through the creation of patient education materials (PEMs) tailored to individual needs. This Study aims to assess the precision and readability AI-generated information on kidney cancer using ChatGPT 4.0, Gemini AI, and Perplexity AI., comparing these outputs to PEMs provided by the American Urological Association (AUA) and the European Association of Urology (EAU). The objective is to guide physicians in directing patients to accurate and understandable resources.

Methods

PEMs published by AUA and EAU were collected and categorized. kidney cancer-related queries, identified via Google Trends (GT), were input into CahtGPT-4.0, Gemini AI, and Perplexity AI. Four independent reviewers assessed the AI outputs for accuracy grounded on five distinct categories, employing a 5-point Likert scale. A readability evaluation was conducted utilizing established formulas, including Gunning Fog Index (GFI), Simple Measure of Gobbledygook (SMOG), and Flesch-Kincaid Grade Formula (FKGL). AI chatbots were then tasked with simplifying their outputs to achieve a sixth-grade reading level.

Results

The PEM published by the AUA was the most readable with a mean readability score of 9.84 ± 1.2, in contrast to EAU (11.88 ± 1.11), ChatGPT-4.0 (11.03 ± 1.76), Perplexity AI (12.66 ± 1.83), and Gemini AI (10.83 ± 2.31). The Chatbots demonstrated the capability to simplify text lower grade levels upon request, with ChatGPT-4.0 achieving a readability grade level ranging from 5.76 to 9.19, Perplexity AI from 7.33 to 8.45, Gemini AI from 6.43 to 8.43. While official PEMS were considered accurate, the LLMs generated outputs exhibited an overall high level of accuracy with minor detail omission and some information inaccuracies. Information related to kidney cancer treatment was found to be the least accurate among the evaluated categories.

Conclusion

Although the PEM published by AUA being the most readable, both authoritative PEMs and Large Language Models (LLMs) generated outputs exceeded the recommended readability threshold for general population. AI Chatbots can simplify their outputs when explicitly instructed. However, notwithstanding their accuracy, LLMs-generated outputs are susceptible to detail omission and inaccuracies. The variability in AI performance necessitates cautious use as an adjunctive tool in patient education.
The prevalence of developmental coordination disorder in children: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Li Huaqiang , Ke Xiaohua , Huang Dunbing , Xu Xiaqing , Tian Huan , Gao Jiaxin , Jiang Cai , Song Wei
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of the study was to synthesize previous evidence and clarify the prevalence of developmental coordination disorder (DCD) in children by meta-analysis.

Methods

A comprehensive computerized search of databases, including PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases, was conducted to identify relevant national and international articles published before 18 December 2023 on DCD prevalence in children. The meta-analysis of prevalence was conducted using Stata 18.0.

Results

A total of 18 papers involving 31,203 patients were included. The prevalence of children with DCD was found to be 5%. A subgroup analysis showed that prevalence was 7% [95% confidence interval (CI) 4%–10%] and 4% (95% CI 3%–7%) for boys and girls, respectively; 4% (95% CI 2%–8%), 2% (95% CI 2%–2%), and 6% (95% CI 3%–10%) in Asia, Europe, and North America, respectively; and 18% (95% CI 8%–31%) and 6% (95% CI 4%–7%) for preterm (<37 weeks) and term infants (≥37 weeks), respectively. The prevalence of very low birth weight children (<1,250 g) with DCD was found to be 31%.

Conclusion

In this study, we found that the prevalence of children with DCD in the general population was 5% and that preterm infants (<37 weeks) and very low birth weight infants (<1,250 g) have a higher prevalence of DCD and require early screening and regular follow-up.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/, Identifier (CRD42024503320).
Exploring Copper’s role in stroke: progress and treatment approaches
Authors: Peng Gang , Huang Yongpan , Xie Guangdi , Tang Jiayu
Published: September 2024

Copper is an important mineral, and moderate copper is required to maintain physiological processes in nervous system including cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. Over the past few decades, copper induced cell death, named cuprotosis, has attracted increasing attention. Several lines of evidence have confirmed cuprotosis exerts pivotal role in diverse of pathological processes, such as cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, and I/R injury. Therefore, an in-depth understanding of the interaction mechanism between copper-mediated cell death and I/R injury may reveal the significant alterations about cellular copper-mediated homeostasis in physiological and pathophysiological conditions, as well as therapeutic strategies deciphering copper-induced cell death in cerebral I/R injury.
Enfortumab vedotin plus pembrolizumab as a first-line treatment for advanced urothelial carcinoma: a cost-effectiveness analysis from China based on the EV-302 trial
Authors: You Maojin , Zheng Qiaoyan , He Ying
Published: September 2024

Background

The efficacy and safety of enfortumab vedotin combined with pembrolizumab (EV-PEMB) was investigated as a first-line treatment for advanced urothelial carcinoma (UC) in a phase III clinical trial (EV-302). The trial findings indicated significant prolonged progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) compared to chemotherapy with a favorable safety profile. However, EV-PEMB is costly and it is unknown whether it is cost-effective compared to chemotherapy. This study aimed to conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis of EV-PEMB versus chemotherapy as a first-line treatment for advanced UC from the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system.

Methods

A Markov model with three distinct health states was developed to assess the cost-effectiveness of EV-PEMB as a first-line treatment for advanced UC versus chemotherapy based on the EV-302 trial. Drug costs were obtained from national tender prices. Other expenses and utility values were sourced from the literature or expert advice. The findings of the study included total costs, quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), and incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs). We conducted a one-way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis to ensure the model’s robustness.

Results

The EV-PEMB regimen demonstrated a gain of 3.22 QALYs at $375,420.24, compared to the chemotherapy regimen with 1.70 QALYs at $23,369.67. ICER for EV-PEMB compared to chemotherapy was at $232,256.16 per QALY gained. In China, at a willingness-to-pay threshold of $38,133 per QALY, EV-PEMB has a 0% probability of being cost-effective as a first-line treatment for advanced UC compared to chemotherapy.

Conclusion

From the perspective of the Chinese healthcare system, EV-PEMB is unlikely to be a cost-effective first-line treatment option for advanced UC compared to chemotherapy.
Potential of traditional medicines in alleviating COVID-19 symptoms
Authors: Chatatikun Moragot , Indo Hiroko P. , Imai Motoki , Kawakami Fumitaka , Kubo Makoto , Kitagawa Yoshimasa , Ichikawa Hiroshi , Udomwech Lunla , Phongphithakchai Atthaphong , Sarakul Orawan , Sukati Suriyan , Somsak Voravuth , Ichikawa Takafumi , Klangbud Wiyada Kwanhian , Nissapatorn Veeranoot , Tangpong Jitbanjong , Majima Hideyuki J.
Published: September 2024

This review discusses the prevention and treatment of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by infection with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Mutations in its spike glycoprotein have driven the emergence of variants with high transmissibility and immune escape capabilities. Some antiviral drugs are ineffective against the BA.2 subvariant at the authorized dose. Recently, 150 natural metabolites have been identified as potential candidates for development of new anti-COVID-19 drugs with higher efficacy and lower toxicity than those of existing therapeutic agents. Botanical drug-derived bioactive molecules have shown promise in dampening the COVID-19 cytokine storm and thus preventing pulmonary fibrosis, as they exert a strong binding affinity for viral proteins and inhibit their activity. The Health Ministry of Thailand has approved Andrographis paniculata (Jap. Senshinren) extracts to treat COVID-19. In China, over 85% of patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 receive treatments based on traditional Chinese medicine. A comprehensive map of the stages and pathogenetic mechanisms related to the disease and effective natural products to treat and prevent COVID-19 are presented. Approximately 10% of patients with COVID-19 are affected by long COVID, and COVID-19 infection impairs mitochondrial DNA. As the number of agents to treat COVID-19 is limited, adjuvant botanical drug treatments including vitamin C and E supplementation may reduce COVID-19 symptoms and inhibit progression to long COVID.
Integrated metabolomic and transcriptomic analyses of Dendrobium chrysotoxum and D. thyrsiflorum reveal the biosynthetic pathway from gigantol to erianin
Authors: Xie Lihang , Chen Qiuying , Cheng Najing , Zhang Yue , Ma Yao , Zhang Yueteng , Liu Kangdong
Published: September 2024

Erianin is one of the most representative bibenzyls with significant inhibitory activity against a wide range of tumor cells. However, the low erianin level in natural materials has severely inhibited its further development in health care. Our aim was to uncover the erianin biosynthetic pathway to lay the foundation for promoting its production. Firstly, we screened and obtained two Dendrobium species (Dendrobium thyrsiflorum stems with lower erianin content and D. chrysotoxum stems with higher erianin content), belonging to the same Dendrobium section (Chrysotoxae). A systematic analysis of bibenzyl structure and content in two stems revealed that gigantol might be an erianin biosynthetic intermediate, which was verified by introducing deuterium-labeled gigantol. Chemical structure analyses indicated that gigantol was modified by two kinds of enzymes (hydroxylases and O-methyltransferases), leading to erianin synthesis. Up-regulated hydroxylases and O-methyltransferases (OMTs) were screened out and were performed by molecular docking simulation experiments. We propose a rational biosynthetic pathway from gigantol to erianin, as well as relevant enzymes involved in the process. Our findings should significantly contribute to comprehensive resolution of the erianin biosynthetic pathway, promote its large-scale industrial production as well as contribute to biosynthesis studies of other bibenzyls.
Evaluation of growth, physiological response, and drought resistance of different flue-cured tobacco varieties under drought stress
Authors: Zhang Yi-nan , Zhuang Ye , Wang Xiao-guo , Wang Xiao-dong
Published: September 2024

Background

In recent years, more severe droughts have occurred frequently in many parts of the world, drought stress is the primary abiotic stress factor restricting the growth and quality of flue-cured tobacco. Therefore, screening dryland cultivation-compatible flue-cured tobacco varieties will help reduce the negative impact of drought.

Methods

Tobacco varieties were selected: Qinyan 96 (Q96), Zhongyan 101 (Z101), Yunyan 87 (Y87), and Yunyan 116 (Y116). A pot experiment was conducted with four water supply gradients: sufficient, mild stress, moderate stress, and severe stress. The aim was to analyze inter-varietal differences in agronomic traits, photosynthetic traits, reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism, and antioxidant enzyme system under drought stress. Additionally, the drought resistance of four flue-cured tobacco varieties was evaluated using principal component analysis and membership function analysis.

Results

The results showed that drought intensification inhibited seedling growth and development across all varieties, with Q96 showing the least decrease and Y116 the greatest. With the increasing degree of drought stress, photosynthetic rates (Pn), transpiration rate (Tr), and stomatal conduction (Gs) have shown gradually decreasing trends, while substomatal cavity CO2 concentration (Ci) showed a growing trend. Severe drought corresponded with lower chlorophyll content and decreased the maximal photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm), photosystem II (PSII), and photochemical quenching coefficient (qP) in all varieties, while steady-state non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) increased. Increased drought stress led to significantly higher reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) content accumulation in tobacco seedlings. The antioxidant enzyme activities in, Q96, Z101, and Y87 increased under mild drought stress, whereas Y116 showed decreased activity.

Conclusion

The drought resistance ranking among the four varieties is as follows: Q96 > Z101 > Y87 > Y116. Therefore, Q96 is a promising drought-tolerant breeding material that can be used as a reference for dryland cultivation of flue-cured tobacco.
Harnessing de novo transcriptome sequencing to identify and characterize genes regulating carbohydrate biosynthesis pathways in Salvia guaranitica L.
Authors: Abbas Zahid Khorshid , Al-Huqail Arwa Abdulkreem , Abdel Kawy Aesha H. , Abdulhai Rabab A. , Albalawi Doha A. , AlShaqhaa Manal Abdullah , Alsubeie Moodi Saham , Darwish Doaa Bahaa Eldin , Abdelhameed Ahmed Ali , Soudy Fathia A. , Makki Rania M. , Aljabri Maha , Al-Sulami Nadiah , Ali Mohammed , Zayed Muhammad
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Carbohydrate compounds serve multifaceted roles, from energy sources to stress protectants, found across diverse organisms including bacteria, fungi, and plants. Despite this broad importance, the molecular genetic framework underlying carbohydrate biosynthesis pathways, such as starch, sucrose, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis in Salvia guaranitica, remains largely unexplored.

Methods

In this study, the Illumina-HiSeq 2500 platform was used to sequence the transcripts of S. guaranitica leaves, generating approximately 8.2 Gb of raw data. After filtering and removing adapter sequences, 38 million reads comprising 210 million high-quality nucleotide bases were obtained. De novo assembly resulted in 75,100 unigenes, which were annotated to establish a comprehensive database for investigating starch, sucrose, and glycolysis biosynthesis. Functional analyses of glucose-6-phosphate isomerase (SgGPI), trehalose-6-phosphate synthase/phosphatase (SgT6PS), and sucrose synthase (SgSUS) were performed using transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana.

Results

Among the unigenes, 410 were identified as putatively involved in these metabolic pathways, including 175 related to glycolysis/gluconeogenesis and 235 to starch and sucrose biosynthesis. Overexpression of SgGPI, SgT6PS, and SgSUS in transgenic A. thaliana enhanced leaf area, accelerated flower formation, and promoted overall growth compared to wild-type plants.

Discussion

These findings lay a foundation for understanding the roles of starch, sucrose, and glycolysis biosynthesis genes in S. guaranitica, offering insights into future metabolic engineering strategies for enhancing the production of valuable carbohydrate compounds in S. guaranitica or other plants.
The relationship between self-control and internet gaming disorder and problematic social networking site use: the mediation effects of internet use motives
Authors: Zhou Ruoyu , Morita Nobuaki , Zhu Chunmu , Ogai Yasukazu , Saito Tamaki , Yang Wenjie , Ogawa Mitsue , Zhang Hong
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to explore the relationships between problematic social networking site use (PSNSU), Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD), internet use motives, and self-control among university students in China and Japan. Specifically, it investigated the indirect effects of self-control on IGD and PSNSU through various internet use motives, considering gender differences.

Methods

A sample of 697 university students (465 females; 397 Chinese) was surveyed. Path analysis was conducted separately for male and female users to examine the relationships between self-control, internet use motives, IGD, and PSNSU.

Results

The results indicated that self-control had significant indirect effects on IGD through enhancement (β = 0.096**, p = 0.005), social (β = -0.090**, p = 0.007), and conformity (β = -0.117**, p = 0.001) motives, but these effects were observed only in the male group. Self-control also exhibited indirect effects on PSNSU through enhancement, social, coping, and conformity motives, with a greater impact observed on PSNSU than on IGD. Gender differences in mediating effects were identified, with males and females showing distinct patterns.

Discussion

The findings highlight the importance of understanding gender differences and motivational factors in problematic internet use. These insights contribute to a better understanding of how internet use motives influence IGD and PSNSU in different contexts.
Prenatal maternal mental health and resilience in the United Kingdom during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic: a cross- national comparison
Authors: Datye Swarali , Smiljanic Marko , Shetti Rohan , MacRae-Miller Alison , van Teijlingen Edwin , Vinayakarao Latha , Peters Eva M. J. , Lebel Catherine , Tomfohr-Madsen Lianne , Giesbrecht Gerald , Khashu Minesh , Conrad Melanie L.
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Prenatal mental health problems are associated with morbidity for the pregnant person, and their infants are at long-term risk for poor health outcomes. We aim to explore how the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic affected the mental health of pregnant people in the United Kingdom (UK), and to further identify resilience factors which may have contributed to varying mental health outcomes. We also aim to examine the quality of antenatal care provided during the pandemic in the UK and to identify potential inadequacies to enhance preparedness for future events.

Methods

During June-November 2020, we recruited 3666 individuals in the UK for the EPPOCH pregnancy cohort (Maternal mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic: Effect of the Pandemic on Pregnancy Outcomes and Childhood Health). Participants were assessed for depression, anxiety, anger and pregnancy-related anxiety using validated scales. Additionally, physical activity, social support, individualized support and personal coping ability of the respondents were assessed as potential resilience factors.

Results

Participants reported high levels of depression (57.05%), anxiety (58.04%) and anger (58.05%). Higher levels of social and individualized support and personal coping ability were associated with lower mental health challenges. Additionally, pregnant individuals in the UK experienced higher depression during the pandemic than that reported in Canada. Finally, qualitative analysis revealed that restrictions for partners and support persons during medical appointments as well as poor public health communication led to increased mental health adversities and hindered ability to make medical decisions.

Discussion

This study revealed increased mental health challenges among pregnant individuals in the UK during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. These results highlight the need for reassessing the mental health support measures available to pregnant people in the UK, both during times of crisis and in general.
Frailty in middle-aged and older adult postoperative patients with gynecological malignancies structural equation modeling
Authors: Man Shuo , Wu Xiaofang , Huang HaoWen , Yu Jinjin , Xia Ling
Published: September 2024

Background

Frailty and self-management are important determinants of quality of life in cancer patients. However, their synergistic effects and potential mechanisms on quality of life in middle-aged and older adult postoperative gynecologic malignancy patients have not been adequately studied.

Objective

This cross-sectional study aimed to explore the relationship between frailty, self-management, and quality of life in middle-aged and older adult postoperative gynecologic malignancy patients.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2024 to April 2024 in three gynecological wards of a tertiary hospital in Wuxi. The study recruited 177 patients aged 45 years or older who underwent surgery for gynecologic malignancies (cervical, ovarian, and endometrial cancer). Data were collected using demographic and clinical characteristics, the Edmonton Frailty Scale, the Self-Management Competence Scale, and the EORTC Core Quality of Life Questionnaire. Structural equation modeling was used to explore the interactions between frailty, self-management, and quality of life.

Results

The prevalence of frailty in middle-aged and older adult postoperative gynecologic malignancy patients was 39.5%, with a mean total self-management score of 125.81 ± 13.21 and a mean total quality of life score of 69.26 ± 10.88. The fit indices of the model indicated a good fit, and that frailty had multiple effects on quality of life; specifically, frailty could affect the quality of life directly or through self-management, i.e., self-management partially mediated frailty and quality of life.

Conclusion

Self-management is a mediating variable between frailty and quality of life, suggesting that clinical workers can intervene in self-management skills to improve patient’s quality of life and physical and mental health.
Magnetosonic wave instability by proton ring and shell distributions
Authors: Liu Xu , Chen Lunjin , Wang Xueyi
Published: September 2024

Both proton ring and shell distributions, providing a positive gradient along the perpendicular direction, can trigger ion Bernstein instabilities and excite magnetosonic (MS) waves in the Earth’s inner magnetosphere. A thorough comparison of the ion Bernstein instability due to the proton ring and shell distributions has not been performed. In this study, we perform and compare the MS wave instabilities under different wave normal angles and parameters of ring and shell distributions. We find that (1) compared to shell-driven MS waves, ring-driven MS waves have narrower frequency and wavenumber ranges. (2) The peak growth rates of shell-driven MS waves are always near the first peaks of the square of first-kind Bessel function Jn2. While, The peak growth rates of ring-driven MS waves are near the first peaks of Jn2, and shift to the cold plasma dispersion relation as ring velocity or wave normal angle increases. (3) MS wave growth rates increase as first peaks of Jn2 approach the cold plasma dispersion in frequency-wavenumber domain. This result can be used to explain dependences on ring (shell) velocity and wave normal angle. (4) The MS wave frequency range and growth rates decrease with increasing ring or shell temperature.
The March and April 2023 ionospheric storms over Europe
Authors: Mošna Zbyšek , Barta Veronika , Berényi Kitti Alexandra , Mielich Jens , Verhulst Tobias , Kouba Daniel , Urbář Jaroslav , Chum Jaroslav , Koucká Knížová Petra , Marew Habtamu , Podolská Kateřina , Bojilova Rumiana
Published: September 2024

This paper presents a deep and comprehensive multi-instrumental analysis of two distinct ionospheric storms occurring in March and April 2023. We investigate the ionospheric response in the middle-latitudinal European region utilizing ionospheric vertical sounding at five European stations: Juliusruh, Dourbes, Pruhonice, Sopron, and a reference station, San Vito. Additionally, we employ Digisonde Drift Measurement, Continuous Doppler Sounding System, local geomagnetic measurements, and optical observations. We concentrate on the F2 and F1 region parameters and shape of the electron density profile. During the March event, a pre-storm enhancement was observed, characterized by an increase in electron density up to approximately 20% at northern stations, with minimal effect observed at San Vito. We present a novel detailed temporal and spatial description of a so-called G-condition. It was observed not only in the morning hours in the period of the increased geomagnetic activity during (and shortly after) the main phase of the storm, but also during low to moderate geomagnetic activity with Kp between 1 and 3+. Further, an alteration in the shape of the electron density profile, notably captured by the parameter B0 was observed. A substantial increase in B0, by several hundred percent, was noted during both events on the day of the geomagnetic disturbance and importantly also on the subsequent day with low-to-moderate geomagnetic activity. During both storms, the critical frequency foF1 decreased at all stations including San Vito. Changes in electron density in the F1 region indicate plasma outflow during morning hours. Distinct and persistent oblique reflections from the auroral oval were observed on the ionograms for several hours during both events and these observations were in agreement with optical observations of auroral activity and concurrent rapid geomagnetic changes at collocated stations. For the first time, we present a unique and convincing excellent agreement between the Continuous Doppler Sounding System and Digisonde Drift Measurement. The results reveal vertical movement of plasma up to ±80 m/s. Analysis of observed vertical plasma drifts and horizontal component H of magnetic field in Czechia and Belgium suggest that vertical motion of the F-region plasma is caused by ExB plasma drift.
Attitudes of Dental Students towards the Prescription of Antibiotics during Endodontic Treatment
Authors: Khalaf Lauzan haj , Kabbaj Salma , Toure Babacar
Published: September 2024

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the antibiotic-prescribing attitudes of dental students during the management of endodontic infections. Materials and methods: This study was conducted in the five faculties of dental medicine in Morocco. A self-administered questionnaire was used and completed online. This questionnaire has three parts: the first includes the socio-demographic data, the second is related to the types of antibiotics prescribed, and the final addresses clinical scenarios in which antibiotics are prescribed. Data were analyzed with Jamovi, and X2 and ANOVA tests were performed. Results: Three hundred and sixty-five students participated in this study. The average duration of antibiotic therapy was 5.87 ± 1.45. Of all the students, 83.8% prescribe amoxicillin first. For patients with penicillin allergy, clindamycin was the most prescribed, amounting to 53.9%. Antibiotics are prescribed for all pulp and periapical pathologies. For acute pulpitis and acute apical periodontitis, a statistically significant difference between the different faculties was noted (p = 0.03). Regarding apical abscesses, antibiotic prescription was more frequent at the public faculty of Casablanca, corresponding to 92.8%. (p = 0.02). Conclusion: It appears from this study that there is a need for faculties to develop innovative teaching models to improve students’ level of knowledge on antibiotics and their indications in endodontics.
Therapeutic Potential of Olive Leaf Extracts: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: de Oliveira Natália M. , Machado Jorge , Chéu Maria Helena , Lopes Lara , Criado Maria Begoña
Published: September 2024

The olive tree is currently cultivated worldwide, with higher incidence in Mediterranean Basin. Its climate is highly favorable to the synthesis of phenolic compounds, stored in olive leaves; their consumption has been linked to a lower incidence of cancer and cardiovascular disorders for which the research interest upon this feature has increased in last decade. This study aimed (i) to review evidence about the importance of olive leaf extract (OLE) on human health and the physiological effect of its major compounds; (ii) to update the state of the art of studies conducted on the health and technological usage of olive leaf extract; (iii) to report potential uses of OLE in pharmaceuticals, food production, and cosmetics; and (iv) to prospect the future of clinical applications of OLE from diverse cultivars, especially in metabolic inflammatory conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Overall, cultivars richer in TPC, including TFC, αT, omega-3 and omega-9, present a main research target for supplementation alone or in conjunction with vitaminic compounds, due to their nutraceutical value in metabolic disorders, chronic inflammatory diseases, and anti-aging treatments, whereas cultivars with less water content might be useful as substrates for food preservation. With regard to future prospects, it would be of great interest to clarify the specific mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of OLE on neuro-immune and cardiovascular health to design safer and healthier nature-based medicine for a wide array of costly and highly prevalent chronic diseases, such as inflammatory and metabolic-related syndromes, namely, PCOS.
Biofloc Formation Strategy Effects on Halophyte Integration in IMTA with Marine Shrimp and Tilapia
Authors: Gonçalves Mayra da Silva , Carvalho Andrezza , Santos Jorge , Holanda Mariana , Poersch Luís Henrique , Costa César Serra Bonifácio
Published: September 2024

The incorporation of aquaponics into saline integrated multitrophic aquaculture (IMTA) systems, employing biofloc technology (BFT), relies on the cultivation of halophytes capable of withstanding the physical–chemical conditions created by the unique microbial communities in BFT systems. This study aimed to evaluate the integration of the halophyte Salicornia neei with tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) and marine shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) reared in BFT systems dominated by chemoautotrophic (CHE) and heterotrophic (HET) microorganisms over a period of 84 days in southern Brazil. Each BFT treatment had three replicates, composed of IMTA units. The stocking densities were 400 ind. m−3 (17 m3 circular tanks), 44 ind. m−3 (4 m3 circular tanks), and 30 ind. m−2 (4.8 m2 hydroponic benches) for shrimp, fish, and halophyte, respectively. The highest S. neei individual shoot production (up to 31 g per 30 days) was observed in the CHE treatment, along with favorable agronomic characteristics, possibly due to overall elevated nitrate (98.41 mg N−NO3 L−1) and phosphate concentrations (4.62 P−PO4 L−1). Shrimp in the CHE treatment displayed higher average final weight, specific growth rate, productivity, and survival (11.24 g, 2.88% day−1, 3.86 kg m−3, and 90%, respectively) compared to the HET treatment. Results indicated no significant difference in tilapia zootechnical performance between treatments.
Artificial Intelligence in Electric Vehicle Battery Disassembly: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ai Zekai , Nee A. Y. C. , Ong S. K.
Published: September 2024

The rapidly increasing adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) globally underscores the urgent need for effective management strategies for end-of-life (EOL) EV batteries. Efficient EOL management is crucial in reducing the ecological footprint of EVs and promoting a circular economy where battery materials are sustainably reused, thereby extending the life cycle of the resources and enhancing overall environmental sustainability. In response to this pressing issue, this review presents a comprehensive analysis of the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in improving the disassembly processes for EV batteries, which is integral to the practical echelon utilization and recycling process. This paper reviews the application of AI techniques in various stages of retired battery disassembly. A significant focus is placed on estimating batteries’ state of health (SOH), which is crucial for determining the availability of retired EV batteries. AI-driven methods for planning battery disassembly sequences are examined, revealing potential efficiency gains and cost reductions. AI-driven disassembly operations are discussed, highlighting how AI can streamline processes, improve safety, and reduce environmental hazards. The review concludes with insights into the future integration of electric vehicle battery (EVB) recycling and disassembly, emphasizing the possibility of battery swapping, design for disassembly, and the optimization of charging to prolong battery life and enhance recycling efficiency. This comprehensive analysis underscores the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing the management of retired EVBs.
Chemical, Textural and Antioxidant Properties of Oat-Fermented Beverages with Different Starter Lactic Acid Bacteria and Pectin
Authors: Khrundin Dmitrii V. , Nikitina Elena V.
Published: September 2024

Currently, starter cultures for fermenting plant-based beverages are not widely available commercially, but producers can use starter cultures for dairy products. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the physicochemical, rheological, antioxidant and sensory properties of oat beverages with/without pectin fermented by four different dairy starter cultures. The use of a mono-starter with Lactobacillus bulgaricus or Sreptococcus thermophilus allows for the efficient use of glucose, and more lactic acid is accumulated. The beverage with L. bulgaricus is characterised by high adhesion, syneresis and low cohesiveness, and it has high antioxidant activity and a low sensory profile. Using starter with L. bulgaricus, S. thermophilus and some Lactococcus for fermentation yields a product with high sensory capacity, forming a high-viscosity beverage matrix with low syneresis, high water retention, chewy texture and stickiness. It has been observed that the absence of lactococci and the presence of Lactobacillus casei, L. Rhamnosus and L. paracasei in the starter yields a product with high antioxidant activity, especially in the presence of pectin. The use of pectin significantly improves the viscosity and textural properties of oat yoghurt, enhancing the drink’s flavour and giving it body. For many reasons, the use of different commercial starters in the dairy industry results in different viscosities of oat fermented beverages, forming a matrix with different textural, sensory and antioxidant properties.
Experimental and Numerical Simulation Investigations on the Bearing Capacity of Stepped Variable-Section DX Piles under Vertical Loading
Authors: Cheng Jinsheng , Tong Lei , Sun Chuanzhi , Zhu Hanbo , Deng Jibing
Published: September 2024

As a new type of pile, the bearing characteristics of stepped variable-section DX piles (multi-joint extruded and expanded piles) are quite complicated; thus, their design concepts and pile-forming processes are still in the exploration stage, and their application in actual engineering is not particularly mature. The settlement law and load transfer law of the variable section DX pile have not been studied deeply, and the values of the parameters of engineering design are not clear, which are the problems to be solved for the variable section DX pile. To solve the above problems, the present study on the bearing characteristics of stepped variable-section DX piles under vertical loading is of great scientific significance and engineering practical value. In this study, the bearing capacity of a DX pile with two variable steps was first analyzed experimentally. Then, the bearing capacity of variable cross-section DX piles and equal cross-section piles were simulated under the same soil conditions. Later, the numerical simulation results were compared with the experimental results to verify the validity and accuracy of the numerical models established in ABAQUS software. Finally, the bearing capacity of stepped variable-section DX piles in different soil layers was analyzed numerically to compare the effect of different soils on the compressive bearing capacity of piles. The results indicated that the load-bearing plates had a greater influence on the bearing capacity of the stepped variable-section DX piles. At the optimum variable section ratio, which was close to 0.9, DX piles had a good bearing capacity. The relative errors of the numerical simulation ultimate loads were below 10%, which verified the accuracy of the developed numerical model. The simulated ultimate load of the equal-section pile was the smallest. The vertical compressive bearing capacity and the effect of controlling settlement under the same level of load of the variable section DX pile in sandy soil were both better than those in silt soil. There was little difference between the bearing capacities of the piles with a load-bearing plate. The bearing capacity of the pile with two load-bearing plates was the best, which can be used in practical engineering.
Easy and Fast Obtention of ZnO by Thermal Decomposition of Zinc Acetate and Its Photocatalytic Properties over Rhodamine B Dye
Authors: de Souza Dalete Araujo , da Silva Pedro Hyug de Almeida , da Silva Francisco Paulino , Romaguera-Barcelay Yonny , Ferreira Robson Dantas , Araujo Junior Edgar Alves , Nascimento José Fábio de Lima , da Costa Fagner Ferreira , Takeno Litiko Lopes , Leyet Ruiz Yurimiler , Dominguez Lianet Aguilera , Brito Walter Ricardo , Nobre Francisco Xavier
Published: September 2024

This study presents a simple, low-cost, and efficient route to obtain zinc oxide by adopting the thermal decomposition method of zinc acetate at 300 (Gr@ZnO_300), 400 (Gr@ZnO_400), 500 (Gr@ZnO_500), and 600 °C (Gr@ZnO_600) for 1 h. The diffraction patterns collected for the samples indicated the majority formation of the hexagonal phase (P63mc) for zinc oxide and residual amounts for graphitic carbon, which has a hexagonal structure of space group P63/mmc. The images collected by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the formation of sub-microcrystals with elongated rod-shaped morphology, with dimensions between 0.223 and 1.09 μm. The optical and colourimetric properties of the obtained materials indicate the presence of graphitic carbon in the samples, corroborating the analysis by XRD and Raman spectroscopy, with an optical bandgap close to 3.21 eV, and energies of the valence (EVB) and conduction (ECB) bands of 2.89 eV and −0.31 eV, respectively. The photocatalytic performance at 20 min of exposure time under UV light of all prepared samples in the decolourisation of rhodamine B (RhB) dye solutions follows the order Gr@ZnO_300 (95.6%) > Gr@ZnO_600 (92.8%) > Gr@ZnO_400 (84.0%) > Gr@ZnO_500 (78.1%), where the photocatalytic performance of Gr@ZnO_300 sample was 16.5 times more effective than the photolysis test. Moreover, the results confirmed that the best performance was archived at pH = 10, and the holes (h+) and superoxide (O2•−) radicals are the main species involved in the discolouration of RhB dye molecules in an aqueous medium. Finally, the reusability experiment shows high stability of the Gr@ZnO_300 sample as a solid photocatalyst and cycling capability, which obtained total discolouration of RhB of a solution under five cycling experiments of 60 min of exposure to UV light at room temperature.
Framework to Support the Transfer of Innovative Interventions in the Disability Field: Lessons from the Transferability of Complex Interventions in Public Health: A Review
Authors: Ségard Eléonore , Chervin Philippe , Cambon Linda
Published: September 2024

Innovative initiatives emerge in line with the recommendations of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. They are often place-based, context-dependent, and are not easily adapted for use in other contexts. It raises the question of their transferability. This concept has been studied in the field of public health. To explore the conditions surrounding the transfer of disability interventions, this study aims to determine the advances related to the transferability of complex interventions in public health. A review was conducted. Data were analyzed according to the concepts and terms used to describe the terminology related to transferability and the processes used to manage, assess, and report transferability. Fourteen papers fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The analysis shows that different terms and concepts are used. Numerous tools or frameworks have been developed to structure the identification of transferability factors or adaptations and usually require the involvement of stakeholders. Considering context is central. Finally, we identified a lack of reporting. This review provides a structured and operational framework for various concepts, including transferability as a form of knowledge generation, and implementation/adaptation as proactive actions. It emphasizes that a holistic approach to assessing transferability involves shifting the focus from transferability factors to understanding mechanisms of change and their interactions with the context. The review highlights the pivotal role of stakeholders in generating knowledge, capturing diverse contexts, and prioritizing information. Ultimately, this work will serve as a valuable foundation for guiding methodological developments on transferability in the field of disability.
On Matrix Representation of Extension Field GF(pL) and Its Application in Vector Linear Network Coding
Authors: Tang Hanqi , Liu Heping , Jin Sheng , Liu Wenli , Sun Qifu
Published: September 2024

For a finite field GF(pL) with prime p and L>1, one of the standard representations is L×L matrices over GF(p) so that the arithmetic of GF(pL) can be realized by the arithmetic among these matrices over GF(p). Based on the matrix representation of GF(pL), a conventional linear network coding scheme over GF(pL) can be transformed to an L-dimensional vector LNC scheme over GF(p). Recently, a few real implementations of coding schemes over GF(2L), such as the Reed–Solomon (RS) codes in the ISA-L library and the Cauchy-RS codes in the Longhair library, are built upon the classical result to achieve matrix representation, which focuses more on the structure of every individual matrix but does not shed light on the inherent correlation among matrices which corresponds to different elements. In this paper, we first generalize this classical result from over GF(2L) to over GF(pL) and paraphrase it from the perspective of matrices with different powers to make the inherent correlation among these matrices more transparent. Moreover, motivated by this correlation, we can devise a lookup table to pre-store the matrix representation with a smaller size than the one utilized in current implementations. In addition, this correlation also implies useful theoretical results which can be adopted to further demonstrate the advantages of binary matrix representation in vector LNC. In the following part of this paper, we focus on the study of vector LNC and investigate the applications of matrix representation related to the aspects of random and deterministic vector LNC.
A Novel Hypersonic Target Trajectory Estimation Method Based on Long Short-Term Memory and a Multi-Head Attention Mechanism
Authors: Xu Yue , Pan Quan , Wang Zengfu , Hu Baoquan
Published: September 2024

To address the complex maneuvering characteristics of hypersonic targets in adjacent space, this paper proposes an LSTM trajectory estimation method combined with the attention mechanism and optimizes the model from the information-theoretic perspective. The method captures the target dynamics by using the temporal processing capability of LSTM, and at the same time improves the efficiency of information utilization through the attention mechanism to achieve accurate prediction. First, a target dynamics model is constructed to clarify the motion behavior parameters. Subsequently, an LSTM model incorporating the attention mechanism is designed, which enables the model to automatically focus on key information fragments in the historical trajectory. In model training, information redundancy is reduced, and information validity is improved through feature selection and data preprocessing. Eventually, the model achieves accurate prediction of hypersonic target trajectories with limited computational resources. The experimental results show that the method performs well in complex dynamic environments with improved prediction accuracy and robustness, reflecting the potential of information theory principles in optimizing the trajectory prediction model.