bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dnmt3b ablation affects fracture repair process by regulating apoptosis
Authors: Wang Xu , Ge Qinwen , Zeng Qinghe , Zou Kai ao , Bao Zhengsheng , Ying Jun , Wu Zhen , Jin Hongting , Chen Jiali , Xu Taotao
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Previous studies have shown that DNA methyltransferase 3b (Dnmt3b) is the only Dnmt responsive to fracture repair and Dnmt3b ablation in Prx1-positive stem cells and chondrocyte cells both delayed fracture repair. Our study aims to explore the influence of Dnmt3b ablation in Gli1-positive stem cells in fracture healing mice and the underlying mechanism.
Methods
We generated Gli1-CreERT2; Dnmt3bflox/flox (Dnmt3bGli1ER) mice to operated tibia fracture. Fracture callus tissues of Dnmt3bGli1ER mice and control mice were collected and analyzed by X-ray, micro-CT, biomechanical testing, histopathology and TUNEL assay.
Results
The cartilaginous callus significantly decrease in ablation of Dnmt3b in Gli1-positive stem cells during fracture repair. The chondrogenic and osteogenic indicators (Sox9 and Runx2) in the fracture healing tissues in Dnmt3bGli1ER mice much less than control mice. Dnmt3bGli1ER mice led to delayed bone callus remodeling and decreased biomechanical properties of the newly formed bone during fracture repair. Both the expressions of Caspase-3 and Caspase-8 were upregulated in Dnmt3bGli1ER mice as well as the expressions of BCL-2.
Conclusions
Our study provides an evidence that Dnmt3b ablation Gli1-positive stem cells can affect fracture healing and lead to poor fracture healing by regulating apoptosis to decrease chondrocyte hypertrophic maturation.
Enhanced 3D framework composite solid electrolyte with alumina- modified Li1.4Al0.4Ti1.6(PO4)3 for solid-state lithium battery
Authors: Chen Long , Zhu Feng , Ma Dongjuan , Liu Yan , Yan Fang , Qiu Jingyi , Cao Gaoping , Zhang Hao
Published: December 2023

Lithium ion (Li+) battery with conventional liquid electrolyte exists typical and notorious security risk. Composite solid electrolyte integrating the merits of various electrolyte systems is an attractive alternative of liquid electrolyte for new-type safety and long-life lithium (Li) batteries. Herein, a 3D framework composite solid electrolyte based on Al2O3 modified Li1.4Al0.4Ti1.6(PO4)3 (Al2O3@LATP) was prepared by solution casting and scraping method. The 3D framework composite electrolyte exhibits admirable ionic conductivity (1.1×10− 4 S cm− 1 at 60oC), wide voltage window (4.8 V vs. Li/Li+), good thermal stability and satisfactory electrolyte/electrode interfacial compatibility. The Al2O3@LATP can not only impede Li dendrite growth, but also avoid the LATP reaction with Li anode. The assembled solid-state LiFePO4|Li battery with 3D framework composite solid electrolyte delivers a satisfactory capacity retention up to 95.2% after 400 cycles at 0.5 C and under 60oC. The 3D framework structural design of solid electrolyte affords a promising options for realizing safe energy storage systems.
Energy efficiency in the commercial rented sector and considerations on the rebound effect after PV system installation in a shopping center in Spain
Authors: De Tommasi Luciano , Agrawal Ruchi
Published: December 2023

Across Europe, buildings account for 40% of energy consumption and 36% of carbon emissions. It is estimated that 75% of buildings in the European Union (EU) are inefficient, yet only 1% of buildings are renovated each year [1]. As part of the EU H2020 funded SmartSPIN (Smart Energy Services to solve the split incentive problem in the commercial rented sector) project, a novel business model to support efficiency measures in rented premises, is being developed and evaluated. The business model will provide an equitable, transparent model for splitting the energy savings and the costs of energy efficiency measures and services between landlords, tenants and energy efficiency service providers. The business model aims to reduce the split incentive issue, which occurs when the benefits of investing in energy efficiency do not accrue to the actor who pays for the energy efficiency measures. The split incentive issue is one of the major market barriers to energy efficient building renovations across rented buildings in Europe and could result in exacerbating the severe energy efficiency gap in the rented sector [2]. Energy efficiency measures are being installed at demonstration sites of SmartSPIN. These measures include a PV-system which has been installed at La Gavia shopping centre, Madrid. This paper aims to review the proposed business model and energy efficiency service and to generate awareness among the stakeholders regarding the rebound effect associated with the adoption of PV system in commercial buildings, analysing data from the PV-system installed at La Gavia shopping centre. Indeed, awareness regarding rebound effect may influence the agreements between the parties in an energy performance contract because it determines a reduction in expected energy savings that is caused by a behavioural change of the energy consumers. Finally, the paper will briefly review other energy efficiency measures relevant with the commercial rented sector.
Multi-proxy study of the Reindeer Lake evolution (Reinodden Point, Spitsbergen) and its importance for the reconstruction of the Holocene environmental changes in polar regions
Authors: Dobrowolski Radosław , Zagórski Piotr , Pidek Irena , Rodzik Jan , Hajdas Irka
Published: December 2023

Multi-proxy analyses of two twin sediment cores from Reindeer Lake were performed to reconstruct Holocene environmental conditions in this eastern branch of Bellsund region (Western Spitsbergen). The basal sediment was AMS-dated to 8.4-8.2 ka cal BP. The low thickness of the sediments in the profile, with a good correlation of dates with their depth in the age-depth model, and the homogeneity of algae gyttja with the dominance of one species, Pediastrum orientale, indicate: (1) very slow sedimentation process during the period of the lake’s functioning, (2) low supply of nutrients from the catchment throughout the period from mid-Holocene to the present, (3) the process of constant physiological adaptation of Pediastrum orientale algae to changing environmental conditions. The inferred climatic history at Reindeer Lake is compatible with other evidence from Svalbard and elsewhere in the Arctic.
Investigation of a plasmonic optical sensor for acetone detection in exhaled breath condensate
Authors: fernandes gabriel , Nascimento Helder , Cruz Rossana , Marques Jefferson , Moreira Cleumar
Published: December 2023

A numerical investigation of a sensor for acetone monitoring in exhaled breath condensate (EBC) using surface plasmon resonance principle is proposed. We use the Kretschmann-Raether (K-R) setup and the Fresnel multilayer model for the theoretical analysis. Three figures of merit, i.e., resonance angle (RA), minimum reflectance at resonance (MRR), and full width at half maximum (FWHM) are used for performance analysis. Firstly, the sensor performance for different plasmonic metals and substrates is evaluated. Results using gold, silver, and copper as the plasmonic metals and polycarbonate the substrate, showed narrow SPR curves with an FWHM of less than 1.8 degrees. Achieved values for MRR parameter are close to zero (< 0.001). Subsequently, we evaluate the effects of adding polyaniline (PANI), graphene, or chitosan as a chemisorption binding layer for the selective sensing of acetone. Our findings suggest that these materials present suitable responses when applied as an overlay to the sensor. Their thicknesses, however, should be kept close to a single monolayer level to preserve performance. The overall best result occurs when polycarbonate is the substrate, silver, is the metal, and chitosan, is the reception layer.
Experimental investigation comparing thermal performance of parallel and counter flow in 3D printed triangular cross section dual microchannel heat sink with rough wall surface
Authors: Nadarajah Puurnaraj , Mohamed Khairudin , Abdullah Jamaluddin , Devarajan Mutharasu
Published: December 2023

An additive manufactured triangular cross section microchannel heat sink (MCHS) is experimentally investigated by comparing parallel and counter flow arrangement. It consists of dual microchannel with hydraulic diameter of 650 µm, where the emphasize is given on the influence of flow configuration and rough wall structure on thermal performance of MCHS. Pressure drop, Nusselt number, thermal resistances, thermal performance index and temperature gradient across microchannel are evaluated and compared. For flow rate between 1 ml/min - 5 ml/min, counter flow offers more uniform temperature distribution across MCHS surface at a maximum difference of 37.2% and generates lower pressure drop by at least 25 % compared to parallel flow configuration. As Reynold number exceeds 140, parallel flow Nusselt number is greater which leads to superior thermal performance index (TPI) between 12.7 % - 25.9 %. Convective thermal resistance is found to be the dominant thermal resistance compared to capacitive and conductive thermal resistance. To conclude, at flow rate below 5 ml/min, counter flow offers the best thermal performance due a more uniform thermal gradient across MCHS surface and negligible differences in TPI between both flows configuration. At a higher flow rate of 5 ml/min and above, thermal gradient is independent of flow configuration and parallel flow is preferred due to higher TPI.
Estimation of the Correlation Between Temperature and Precipitation in Bafra Plain Using Copula
Authors: Sözen Çağlar , Sağlam Fatih , Sözen Mervenur , Zorlu Kuttusi
Published: December 2023

Temperature and precipitation are two critical climate parameters that influence agricultural productivity and various extreme hydrological and meteorological phenomena. Both temperature and precipitation have non-normal marginal distribution and have varying correlation over time. In many cases, while the marginal distributions of these two variables are known, their joint distributions remain unknown. Modelling the potential dependence under varying correlation and non-normal distribution can be achieved using Copula. In this study, we analysed the relationship between total precipitation and temperatures within the Bafra Plain using the Copula method considering maximum, minimum and average temperature, and total precipitation. First, the assumption of autocorrelation was tested using Ljung-Box unit root, Mann-Kendall trend, and Ollech-Webel seasonality tests. Then, the presence of autocorrelation was verified through autocorrelation functions (ACF). To mitigate autocorrelation, appropriate SARIMA and NNAR models were determined based on ACF. A multivariate analysis was conducted on residuals by examining the marginals distributions and copula dependency. Parameters of the marginal distributions and copula families were estimated by maximizing log-likelihood. The suitable copula families were determined based on Bayesian information criteria (BIC). Copula Kendall correlations (τCK) together with Spearman (ρs) and Pearson correlation coefficient (ρp) calculated to show the effect of copula in revealing correct relationship. As a result, the Copula method demonstrated moderate negative correlation of minimum and maximum temperature with precipitation which is higher compared to low negative correlation of ρs and ρp. For average temperature and precipitation, all three methods showed similar low negative correlation. The outcomes contribute to establishing more robust foundations for implementing measures to preserve and strengthen the region's agricultural sustainability.
OSIS: Obstacle-Sensitive and Initial-Solution-first path planning
Authors: Zhang Kaibin , Liu Liang , Zhai Wenbin , Ding Youwei , Hu Jun
Published: December 2023

Informed path planning is a type of algorithm that uses problem-specific knowledge, expressed as heuristics, to efficiently discover an optimal path between a start and goal state.The efficiency of an informed algorithm is contingent upon how quickly the planner can find the initial solution and the associated overhead involved in collision detection.Existing informed planners do not fully exploit the information contained in historical collision detection results, resulting in additional unnecessary collision detections.Furthermore, they optimize paths through rewiring before discovering an initial solution. This approach not only hampers the planner's space exploration, but also generates a superfluous amount of unproductive overhead.In this paper, an Obstacle-Sensitive and Initial-Solution-first path planning algorithm (OSIS) is proposed. OSIS leverages historical collision detection results to construct an asymptotically accurate distribution of obstacles in space. Based on this distribution, OSIS employs a reusable, inadmissible yet more accurate heuristic that applies to the entire problem domain.Additionally, an initial-solution-first path optimization strategy is proposed to eliminate unnecessary path optimization. It ensures that OSIS prioritizes exploring uncharted spaces, leading to faster initial solution discovery.Experiments have demonstrated that OSIS outperforms existing algorithms in navigating around obstacles, and achieving convergence in solution cost.
Caspase recruiting domain-containing protein 11 (CARD11) serves as a therapeutic biomarker for the drug therapies of clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Tian Kaiwen , Tang Yanlin , Wang Qianian , Ye Chujin , Cheng Shouyu , Feng Chunxiang , Li Teng , Liu Jiumin , Yu Yuming
Published: December 2023

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) belongs to the ten most diagnosed cancer types worldwide. Novel drug therapies are introduced and beneficial to the advanced ccRCC but lack effective biomarkers for the therapeutic response. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells and gene signatures are two critical factors for the response to immunotherapy and targeted therapy. Meanwhile, Caspase recruiting domain-containing protein 11 (CARD11) owns a deep connection with the immune system and has recently been identified to play a role in tumor development. Therefore, we investigated the CARD11 expression and its association with the immune environment in ccRCC to discover novel therapeutic biomarkers. Data from TCGA and GEO together with IHC were extracted to analyze the mRNA and protein expression of CARD11 in ccRCC. EWAS Atlas and cBioPortal provided the epigenomic modification information of CARD11. Then, we utilized the ESTIMATE, ssGSEA, and TIP to illustrate the relationship between CARD11 expression and the immune landscape in ccRCC. Furthermore, CARD11 was investigated for its correlation with the response toward immunotherapy and targeted therapy through the online datasets TIDE and GDSC. As we found, CARD11 expression was upregulated which may be mainly modified by body methylation and was correlated with poor prognosis in ccRCC. In the tumor microenvironment of ccRCC, CARD11 expression was positively correlated with increased T lymphocyte infiltration and increased expression of inhibitory immune checkpoints. Moreover, ccRCC patients with high CARD11 expression had a better response to immunotherapy and targeted therapy. The knockdown of CARD11 ultimately suppressed the proliferation, migration, and invasion capabilities of ccRCC cells while simultaneously enhancing tumor cell apoptosis. In summary, we identified CARD11 as a novel therapeutic biomarker for immunotherapy and targeted therapy in ccRCC.
Aperiodic component of EEG power spectrum and cognitive performance in aging: the role of education
Authors: Montemurro Sonia , Borek Daniel , Marinazzo Daniele , Zago Sara , Masina Fabio , Napoli Ettore , Filippini Nicola , Arcara Giorgio
Published: December 2023

Aging is associated with changes in the oscillatory -periodic- brain activity in the alpha band (8–12 Hz), as measured with resting-state EEG (rsEEG); it is characterized by a significantly lower alpha frequency and power. Aging influences the aperiodic component of the power spectrum: at a higher age the slope flattens, which is related with lower cognitive efficiency. It is not known whether education, a cognitive reserve proxy recognized for its modulatory role on cognition, influences such relationship. N = 179 healthy participants of the LEMON dataset (Babayan et al., 2019) were grouped based on age and education: young adults with high education and older adults with high and low education. Eyes-closed rsEEG power spectrum was parametrized at the occipital level. Lower IAPF, exponent, and offset in older adults were shown, compared to younger adults. Visual attention and working memory were differently predicted by the aperiodic component across education: in older adults with high education, higher exponent predicted slower processing speed and less working memory capacity, with an opposite trend in those with lower education. Further investigation is needed; the study shows the potential modulatory role of education in the relationship between the aperiodic component of the EEG power spectrum and aging cognition.
Identification of Novel Compounds Targeting the Liver X Receptor (LXR): in-silico studies, screening, molecular docking, and chemico-pharmacokinetic analysis
Authors: Arifuzzaman Sarder , Labu Zubair Khalid , Harun-Or-Rashid Md. , Laboni Farhina Rahman , Khatun Mst. Reshma , Chowdhury Nargis Sultana
Published: December 2023

Background
Studies have shown that LXR activity is linked to the development of many diseases, including metabolic diseases. Several LXR agonists have been discovered, but none of the agonists have entered human use due to undesirable side effects.
Method
In this study, we used multiple biological data repositories (e.g., RNA-seq, human protein atlas, DisGeNET, WebGestalt, and many more) to examine the mRNA and protein expression of LXRs across the tissues and performed network and pathway analysis to redefine their physiological function and disease association. By using in silico research, the current research searches the literature, concentrating on the discovery of new, potentially useful compounds targeting LXRs. We performed molecular docking analysis on LXR agonists that are either approved for preclinical trials or in advanced stages of research. This was carried out using AutoDockTools, ligand-based virtual screening, in-silico studies, screening, molecular docking, and chemico-pharmacokinetic analysis
Results
Our research implies that the various physiological roles of LXRs and the pharmacological modification of LXRs by small molecules may offer pharmacotherapeutic approaches for disease intervention. After conducting molecular docking analysis and in silico searches, we selected T0901317 and AZ876 for additional screening because they showed the highest affinity for LXR-α and LXR-β. We later conducted a global screening for novel compounds for the LXRs, guided by the previously established chemical structures of T0901317 and AZ876, as well as chemico-pharmacokinetic analysis. Finally, ZINC000095464663 and ZINC000021912925 were found to have the highest binding affinities (− 12.3 and − 11.7 kcal/mol), and potentially useful compounds with favorable chemico-pharmacokinetic features for LXR-α and LXR-β, respectively.
Conclusion
In summary, the use of SwissSimilarity, molecular docking analysis, and SwissADME for in silico chemico-pharmacokinetic assessment revealed two new and ten previously reported small molecules with potential for oral administration that target LXR-α and LXR-β. This could lead to the development of medium- and long-term pharmacotherapeutic solutions for these molecules.
Threads Outweigh Opportunities for the Shrimp Fishery in the Colombian Pacific Ocean under climate change scenarios
Authors: Benavides Iván Felipe , Garcés-Vargas José , Selvaraj John Josephraj
Published: December 2023

Climate change brings a range of challenges and opportunities to shrimp fisheries globally, and the Colombian Pacific Ocean (CPO) is a notable case due to their crucial role in the economy, supporting livelihoods for numerous families. However, the potential impacts of climate change on the distribution of shrimps loom large, making it urgent to scrutinize the prospective alterations that might unfurl across the CPO. Employing the Species Distribution Modeling approach under Global Circulation Model scenarios, we predicted the current and future potential distributions of five commercially important shrimps (Litopenaeus occidentalis, Xiphopenaeus riveti, Solenocera agassizii, Penaeus brevirostris, and Penaeus californiensis) based on an annual cycle, and considering the decades 2030 and 2050 under the Shared Socioeconomic Pathways SSP 2.6, SSP 4.5, SSP 7.0, and SSP 8.0. The Bathymetric Projection Method was utilized to obtain spatiotemporal ocean bottom predictors, giving the models more realism for reliable habitat predictions. Six spatiotemporal attributes were computed to gauge the changes in these distributions: area, depth range, spatial aggregation, percentage suitability change, gain or loss of areas, and seasonality. L. occidentalis and X. riveti exhibited favorable shifts during the initial semester for both decades and all scenarios, but unfavorable changes during the latter half of the year, primarily influenced by projected modifications in bottom salinity and bottom temperature. Conversely, for S. agassizii, P. brevirostris, and P. californiensis, predominantly negative changes surfaced across all months, decades, and scenarios, primarily driven by precipitation. These changes pose both threats and opportunities to shrimp fisheries in the CPO. However, their effects are not uniform across space and time. Instead, they form a mosaic of complex interactions that merit careful consideration when seeking practical solutions. These findings hold potential utility for informed decision-making, climate change mitigation, and adaptive strategies within the context of shrimp fisheries management in the CPO.
Agriculture cover and local vegetation structure shape Squamata’s diversity in agricultural landscapes in Brazilian Cerrado
Authors: Mesquita Gabryella de Sousa , Silveira Priscila , Ramalho Werther Pereira , Santos Juliana Silveira dos , Machado Iberê Farina , Vaz-Silva Wilian , Maciel Natan Medeiros , Ribeiro Milton Cezar , Collevatti Rosane Garcia
Published: December 2023

Context
. Changes in landscapes due to conversion of natural vegetation into agroecosystems are causing an alarming and rapid loss of biodiversity on a global scale.
Objectives
. We assess how local environmental factors and landscape structure influence Squamata reptiles' abundance, alpha and beta diversities in agricultural landscapes in the Brazilian Cerrado.
Methods
. We sampled 20 sites using active visual search and pitfall traps to record Squamata reptiles' abundance and richness. For each sampling site, we measured seven variables of vegetation structure at local scale and calculated four landscape metrics at five spatial scales.
Results
. We recorded 145 individuals of 30 Squamata species being 15 lizards, 12 snakes and three amphisbaenians. Agriculture cover had a negative effect on lizards' abundance and richness. No effect was found on the abundance and richness of snakes. Species turnover was the major process responsible for Squamata reptile dissimilarity among sites. Reptile total beta diversity and species turnover were explained by variation in the number of trees at local scale.
Conclusions.
Our results highlight the negative effects of agriculture expansion at both species abundance and richness in lizard communities. Moreover, vegetation structure may act as an environmental filter and predict the variation in Squamata reptiles’ species turnover between sites. Our findings show that the maintenance of well-preserved patches of natural vegetation in agricultural landscapes are of utmost importance for Squamata reptiles’ conservation and should be considered in landscape conservation and management design.
Variability and Inconsistency of Titles for Part-time Faculty Appointments at US Medical Schools
Authors: DeBroff Brian M.
Published: December 2023

US medical faculty are increasing the number of part-time, voluntary, and clinical faculty members as academic facilities expand and acquire an increasing number of community clinical practices. Academic institutions have used variable, inconsistent, and often overlapping titles for their part-time faculty. This paper identifies, categorizes, and analyzes the variability in titles used to describe the part-time medical school faculty and distinguish these faculty from full-time, ladder or tenure track faculty at US medical schools. Suggestions for simplifying and unifying the nomenclature are proposed as a method to create uniformity and consistency and avoid confusion among member of academia, the public, and the patient population.
A Novel Learning Rule in Intuitionistic Fuzzy Artificial Neural Network and its Applications to MAGDM Support System
Authors: Robinson P John Robinson
Published: December 2023

In this work, Artificial Neural Network (ANN)-based Multiple Attribute Group Decision Making (MAGDM) models have been provided. These models take into consideration pairs of justifications referred to as weighted geometric pairs, where one component is employed to induce an ordering over the second component, which are intuitionistic fuzzy values, and then aggregated. The recommended strategy of a novel Delta Learning rule named as Robin-Delta Learning rule-based ANN is proposed in this article, where the inputs take the form of intuitionistic fuzzy matrices and are resolved and comparisons are made with the traditional Delta Learning Rule with a numerical illustration. Because it removes the unimportant decision alternatives from the system, the Robin-Delta ANN, which is a groundbreaking contribution in the field of intuitionistic fuzzy ANN, proves to be more effective than the previous methods of MAGDM problems and hence provide a new decision support system in the field of decision making.
Association between exposure to a mixture of metals and chronic kidney disease: Comparison of statistical models
Authors: Wu Miaoling , Hou Weiming , Qin Ruonan , Wang Gang , Sun Da , Geng Ye , Du Yinke
Published: December 2023

Previous studies have identified several genetic and environmental risk factors for chronic kidney disease (CKD), but little is known about the relationship between blood metals and CKD risk. Herein, we examined associations between serum levels of metals and the risk of CKD among 100 medical examiners and 443 patients with CKD participating in the medical center of the First Hospital Affiliated to China Medical University. Therefore, we aimed to conduct some statistical approaches, machine learning, logistics regression, Bayesian Kernel Machine Regression (BKMR) and serial mediation model, to explore the prediction and effect of metals exposure on CKD. In this cross-sectional study, the concentrations serum of metals mixtures was measured using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). The result suggested that exposure to K, Na and Ca lead to CKD increasing and Se and Mo lead to CKD decreasing. A significant negative effect of metal mixtures on CKD when metal mixtures concentrations were all from 30th to 45th percentile compared to the median, whereas the opposite was true for the 55th to 60th percentiles. A change in blood K concentration from the 25th to the 75th percentile is associated with a significant increase in CKD disease of 5.15(1.77,8.53), 13.62(8.91,18.33) and 31.81(14.03,49.58) when other metals are fixed at the 25th, 50th and 75th percentiles, respectively. Finally, our findings suggested that metal cumulative exposures and particularly double-exposure of K and Se might impact CKD. Machine learning could verify the external validation of the metal factors.
Intrusion Detection based on Concept Drift Detection & Online Incremental Learning
Authors: Jemili Farah , Jouini Khaled , KORBAA Ouajdi
Published: December 2023

Intrusions are constantly evolving and changing, and to keep up with these changes, it is necessary to have models that detect these changes, also known as concept drifts, and offer the ability to update the model without starting the learning process from scratch. In our contribution, we have opted for a new approach to intrusion detection based on concept drift detection and online incremental learning, named DDM-ORF. Our approach is based on the Detection Drift Method (DDM) and Online Random Forest algorithm (ORF). The model has shown very good accuracy compared to traditional approaches and an ability to handle massive data, providing multi-class classification that allows for determining insights. The proposed system achieves very good classification results, along with good processing speed that meets real-world scenarios. Apache Spark Structured Streaming provides important functionalities for dealing with streaming data and enables the deployment of the proposed system DDM-ORF in real-world applications.
Prevalence of the Main Human Genetic Variants Related to Resistance to Malaria in a Population of the Colombian Pacific Coast
Authors: Ortega Diana Carolina , Arango Maria Paula , Cañón Sergio , Cárdenas Heiber , González Ranulfo , Barreto Guillermo
Published: December 2023

Background. Malaria is an endemic disease present in many areas of Colombia. In the city of Buenaventura (Colombian Pacific), there is a high incidence of malaria cases, with a high number of deaths due to this disease. Some genetic variants provide protection against malaria, as is the case for individuals heterozygous for some haemoglobin variants (HbS, HbC, and β-thalassemias), individuals homozygous and heterozygous for the A- variant of the G6PD gene, and individuals homozygous for the FYBES allele of the Duffy gene. The objective of this research was to establish the prevalence of these variants through molecular characterization in a representative sample of the population of the urban area of Buenaventura.
Methods. A total of 819 individuals selected randomly from each of the 12 communities of the city were included. The analysis at the molecular level was carried out using PCR-RFLP and allele-specific PCR. The contained data were subjected to descriptive, independence and regression analyses. These evaluations were carried out using Arlequin 3.5, SPSS 20 and R 3.4.1.
Results. Frequencies of 3.1%, 2.2%, 72.2%, 2.1%, 2.8%, and 11% were found for the resistance alleles HbS, HbC, Duffy, β-Thalassemia-29, β-thalassemia-88 and G6PD, respectively. For the Duffy gene, there was a higher frequency of the resistance genotype in the entire population, as well as a higher occurrence of the Duffy resistance genotype combination with the G6PD and HbS/C resistance genotypes. In addition, compared with other age groups, adolescents and young adults (13 to 26 years) presented the highest proportion of resistance genotypes. Likewise, compared with other communities, the communities of the insular zone of Buenaventura (1, 2, 4, 5) had the highest proportion of resistance genotypes. These data are important to take into account by health and prevention entities in the city because they reveal age groups and communities more susceptible to infection by malaria in the city of Buenaventura and groups prone to developing and/or propagating genes that can increase the prevalence of haemoglobinopathies in the population in the long term.
Addressing opioid misuses through community-engaged strategy development: Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zimmerman Emily B , Rafie Carlin , Wenzel Sophie , Hosig Kathy , Dance Jon , Lee Samantha S
Published: December 2023

Background
Involving stakeholders in the research process facilitates collaboration, increasing understanding of factors influencing their wellbeing and motivating community action. Currently, there is a need for randomized controlled trials to test the effectiveness of community-engaged research approaches for health, well-being, and engagement outcomes. In this study, we test the effectiveness of both the SEED Method and a modified Delphi method in a participatory project to develop local strategies to address the opioid epidemic in three rural communities. The purpose of this study is to increase the level of evidence for community engaged research approaches through a randomized controlled trial.
Methods
Two communities will use the SEED Method and one will use a modified Delphi method. A total of 144 participants will be recruited (48 per community). Participants in each community will be randomized to an intervention or control group. In addition, we will collect outcome data from the participatory research team members leading the projects in each county (n = 18) and from focus group participants (n = 32). The primary outcome for this study will be the change in self-reported civic engagement as measured as the total score on the Individual Mobilization Scale.
Discussion
In the context of participatory action to address opioid misuse in rural counties, this study will provide an understanding of the effectiveness of two community engagement methods for increasing civic engagement, as well as the extent to which participants successfully create locally tailored action strategies. The study will also explore how observed effects differ depending on participant role in the project (stakeholder participant, community research team member, focus group participant), which is an important consideration for participatory research.
Outcome of Guilian Barre'-Syndrome Using Clinical and Electrophysiological Parameters
Authors: Daoud Mahmoud H.S. , Saeed Mohamed KhalafAllah , Ahmed Ammar El Tahir Mohamed , Ibrahim Etedal Ahmed AbuElbasher , Mohammed Omer Eladil Abdalla Hamid , Al Khalid Mohammed , Elsayed Muaz Abdellatif Mohammed , Mohmed Mohmed Hussien Ahmed , Elamin Abubakr Elmotesim Abdulla , Obaida Husam Abo
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Guillian Barre'-Syndrome (GBS) is an acute, immune mediated disorder, commonly characterized by a rapidly progressive, ascending weakness of the extremity, trunk, respiratory and facial musculature, with inconstant sensory and autonomic dysfunction. This research conducted in Sudanese patients to study the relation between the outcome in GBS and a four parameters; age of the patient, onset duration, presence of autonomic dysfunction and the electrophysiological subtypes.
Methods: A cross-sectional study involving the main three neurology centers in Sudan conducted from March to September 2020, 62 patients enrolled in the study, structured questionnaire consisted of personal data, clinical history, examination findings, management and outcome. The Hughes Functional Grading Scale (HFGS), which provides an objective measure of disability, was used to rate clinical performance at disease nadir and at 90 day from the illness.
Results: The study revealed that males and females are equally represented, the majority of patients (70%) are between 18 and 50 years. The onset of weakness was less than or equal 3 days in (33.9%) of patients, from 4 to 7 days in (41.9%), from 8 to 14 days in (11.3%) and above 14 days in (12.9%).A 25 patients (40.3%) had Evidence of autonomic dysfunction. Based on the electrophysiology, (37.09%) of patients were classified as acute motor axonal neuropathy (AMAN), (29.03%) as acute inflammatory demyelinating poly neuropathy (AIDP) and (29.03%) as acute motor-sensory axonal neuropathy (AMSAN).
Regarding the outcome, 30 patients (48.4%) fully recovered, 25 patients (40.3%) recovered with motor deficit, and 7 patients (11.3%) unfortunately died. The results showed that there was no statistically significance between different age groups, duration of onset or presence of autonomic dysfunction and the outcome after three months, P value ( .21, .21, .1) respectively. The results showed that the Prognosis after three months and the mortality rate of AMAN and AMSAN subtypes were poorer than that of AIDP.
Conclusion: Axonal type of GBS found to be in nearly 2/3 patients. 40% showed clinical evidence of dysautonomia, and showed no statistical evidence with outcome, Age of the patients, onset of the disease also did not show statistically significant effect on outcome at day- 90. The outcome of axonal types at day-90 was poorer than that of demyelinating form.
Molecular interactions between silver ions (Ag+) and amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides: binding affinities and structural effects
Authors: Lakela Amanda L. , Berntsson Elina , Vosough Faraz , Jarvet Jüri , Paul Suman , Barth Andreas , Gräslund Astrid , Roos Per M. , Wärmländer Sebastian K.T.S.
Published: December 2023

Because silver is toxic to microbes, but not considered toxic to humans, the metal has been used as an antimicrobial agent since ancient times. Today, silver nanoparticles and colloidal silver are used for antibacterial purposes, and silver-peptide and similar complexes are being developed as therapeutic agents. Yet, the health effects of silver exposure are not fully understood, nor are the molecular details of silver-protein interactions. In Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of dementia worldwide, amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides aggregate to form soluble oligomers that are neurotoxic. Here, we report that monovalent silver ions (Ag+) bind wildtype Aβ40 peptides with a binding affinity of 25 ± 12 µM in MES buffer at 20 °C. The N-terminal His residues are involved as binding ligands. Weaker Ag+ binding is observed for the truncated Aβ(4-40) variant, for an Aβ40 mutant without histidines, and for the wt Aβ40 peptide at acidic pH. Because the Ag+ ions do not induce any changes in the size or structure of Aβ42 oligomers, we speculate that Ag+ ions have a minor influence on Aβ toxicity.
Adverse childhood experiences lead to slower symptom improvement during psychotherapy of patients with anxiety disorders
Authors: Nowak Jonathan , Nikendei C. , Rollmann I. , Orth M. , Friederich H.-C. , Kindermann D.
Published: December 2023

Background
Adverse childhood experiences were previously identified to be important risk factors for the development of anxiety disorders. Furthermore, anxiety disorders were shown to be associated with impairments of personality functioning. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of adverse and protective childhood experiences on symptom improvement of patients with anxiety disorders during outpatient psychotherapy. Personality functioning, according to the Operationalized Psychodynamic Diagnosis system, was examined as a potential predictor.
Methods
The sample consisted of n = 312 completed psychotherapies. The symptom improvement rate was calculated using a two-stage hierarchical linear model. Direct and indirect effects of adverse and protective childhood experiences on the symptom improvement rate during psychotherapy were then examined using a structural equation model.
Results
The presence of adverse childhood experiences predicted a slower improvement rate during psychotherapy. In addition, a higher number of adverse childhood experiences was associated with greater impairments in the abilities of perception and regulation as dimensions of personality functioning. A higher number of protective childhood experiences was associated with fewer impairments in the communication and attachment dimensions. Impairments in personality functioning in patients with anxiety disorders did not predict symptom improvement rate during psychotherapy.
Conclusions
Among patients with anxiety disorders, adverse childhood experiences lead to slower symptom improvement in psychotherapy. Therefore, childhood adversity should be regularly assessed before starting psychotherapy in patients with anxiety disorders.
Dysregulation of LincRNA-p21 in Gastric Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jahandoust Somayeh , Farhangiyan Pourandokht , Khalili Mitra
Published: December 2023

Background
Gastric cancer (GC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the world and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage due to the lack of appropriate biomarkers. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are considered promising biomarkers in various cancers such as GC. LincRNA-p21 is located upstream of the p21 (Cdkn1) tumor suppressor gene and regulates its expression. Despite reports of lincRNA-p21 deregulation in some cancers, its role in GC has not been well clarified.
Materials &Methods:
In this case-control study, total RNA was extracted from 33 matched pairs of tumor and non-tumor gastric samples and also gastric cancer cell lines (AGS and MKN45). Following cDNA synthesis, real-time PCR was performed. Data analysis was conducted by the GenEX5 and Statistical Program for Social Sciences (SPSS) software programs.
Results
Our results revealed a significant decrease in the expression of LncRNA-p21 in tumor samples compared to non-tumor samples (P = 0.009). The ability of LncRNA-p21expression level to discriminate between tumor and non-tumor samples was confirmed by ROC analysis. Additionally, lincRNA-p21 was found to be decreased in different grades of cancer.
Conclusions
The downregulation of lincRNA-p21 may leading to the loss of cell cycle control and increased tumorigenicity. Moreover, the observation that decreased expression of lincRNA-p21 occurs in different grades of malignancy highlights the potential of lincRNA-p21 as a valuable biomarker for the early diagnosis and prognosis of gastric cancer.
Humanization of Online Mathematics Questions Development and Logical Grading Techniques
Authors: Amour Idrissa S. , Abdalla Abdi T. , Simba Fatuma , Kitta Septimi
Published: December 2023

During shift to online mathematics practices, instructors usually abandon most of their classical questions in favor of easily gradable questions. These questions prevent students from effective and intended learning outputs. This work proposed a human-like grading approach for comprehensive mathematics questions. The questions were developed based on an open sourced plugin, the System for Teaching and Assessment using a Computer Algebra Kernel (STACK). The practice was studied using two undergraduate engineering mathematics courses at the University of Dar es Salaam, which were delivered through Moodle e-Learning system. The courses cover the contents in Linear Algebra, Calculus, Complex numbers and Numerical Methods. In addressing the issue of authoring easily- gradable online questions, we have re-used and digitized with randomisation the classical questions from the previous years. Several cases were demonstrated with human-like grading procedures. Grading with partial scores from unsorted multi-inputs answers has been outlined and demonstrated. The technique shall assist instructors to author high quality STACK questions with the taste of paper-pen questions' quality and natural grading approach. Automated mathematics practice and assessment shall also be favored to replace classical fashion, which are usually expensive to run, which shall also open the doors for fully conducting mathematics and related subjects online programmes.
A Randomized, Open Label, Parallel Group Clinical Study Comparing the Relative Bioavailability, Safety and Efficacy of Microcore Nesc® With Calcium Carbonate and Calcium Citrate Malate in Osteopenic and Osteoporotic Patients
Authors: SAKTHIBALAN
Published: December 2023

Background
Osteoporosis is a skeletal disease characterized by loss of bone mass, reduced bone strength and increased bone fragility predisposing to fractures.
Objectives
To study the efficacy, safety and relative bioavailability of Microcore NESC® (Natural Egg Shell Calcium) in osteopenia and Osteoporotic patients.
Methods
This was a Randomized, Open label, parallel group interventional clinical trial which included 60 study participants with osteopenia and osteoporosis who were randomized into 3 groups (20 each). Group 1 - Microcore NESC®, Group 2- Shelcal and Group 3- CCM with 12 weeks treatment period. The participants were evaluated for relative oral bioavailability, Bone mineral density (BMD), Serum Osteocalcin, change in VAS pain scale and quality of life- Questionnaires.
Results
There was significant improvement in the BMD T scores- post treatment with MICROCORE NESC® and shelcal. Higher percentage of improvement in calcium absorption as depicted by an increase in serum calcium levels (10.23%) in the MICROCORE NESC® treated group when compared to Shelcal (7.7%) and CCM (7.2%). The relative bio availability of MICROCORE NESC® with respect to shelcal was 93%.
Discussion
MICROCORE NESC®, has shown a better oral relative bio availability of calcium (93%), better improvement of BMD T score compared to Shelcal and CCM. The general health status has improved to very good/ excellent in 83% of patients in MICROCORE NESC® treated group.
Conclusion
MICROCORE NESC® can be considered a better and safe calcium supplement, as there are very few side effects observed without any clinically significant abnormalities in lab parameters.
Quality of Life of parents of children with developmental disabilities: A marginalized community in India
Authors: Pathak Abhijit , Biswal Ramakrishna
Published: December 2023

Objective The seasonal discourse surrounding the challenges faced by parents of children with Developmental Disabilities (DD) contributes to their marginalization, with limited exploration of intersectionality based on sociodemographic factors in India. This study aims to investigate differences in stress levels, coping strategies, and quality of life among mothers and fathers of children with DD. Additionally, it seeks to explore the impact of sociodemographic factors on quality of life.
Method A cross sectional study with a sample of 400 parents (193 fathers and 207 mothers) as identified through NGOs (working in the field of disability) across the state of Odisha, India participated in the study. Parents were administered with Parental Stress Scale, Ways of Coping questionnaire and Quality of Life BREF in addition to the sociodemographic information
Results Findings revealed significant differences in stress, coping strategies, and quality of life between mothers and fathers, with mothers consistently reporting higher stress and lower quality of life in all domains. Multiple regression analysis established a link between quality of life, stress, and coping styles, highlighting that positive reappraisal and escape avoidance coping adversely affected physical, psychological, and environmental domains of quality of life. Sociodemographic findings, confirmed by MANOVA and post hoc analysis, indicated evident marginalization, yet the study did not uncover intersectionality.
Conclusion the study advocates for heightened empathy in service delivery to improve the overall quality of life for parents of children with DD, shedding light on the nuanced challenges faced by different demographic groups.
X-photon 3D lithography by fs-oscillators: wavelength-independent and photoinitiator-free
Authors: Ladika Dimitra , Butkus Antanas , Melissinaki Vasileia , Skliutas Edvinas , Kabouraki Elmina , Juodkazis Saulius , Farsari Maria , Malinauskas Mangirdas
Published: December 2023

Laser direct writing employing multi-photon 3D polymerisation is a scientific and industrial tool used in various fields such as micro-optics, medicine, metamaterials, programmable materials, etc., due to the fusion of high-throughput and fine features down to hundreds of nm. Some limitations of technology applicability emerge from photo-resin properties, however any material modifications can strongly affect its printability, as photoexcitation conditions alter as well. Here we present wavelength-independent 3D polymerisation using low peak power laser oscillators. High pulse repetition rate and fast laser direct writing was employed for advancing additive manufacturing out of the SZ2080TM photo-resist without any photo-initiator. Wavelengths of 517 nm, 780 nm, and 1035 nm are shown to be suitable for producing 300 nm polymerized features even at high – up to 100 mm/s – writing speeds. Variation of organic-inorganic ratio in hybrid material results in shift and decrease of the dynamic fabrication window, yet not prohibiting the photo-structuring. Controlled energy deposition per focal volume is achieved due to localized heating enabling efficient 3D printing. Such spatio-selective photo-chemical cross-linking widens optical manufacturing capacity of non-photo-sensitive materials.