bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUATION OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT FACILITIES AT PORTS, AIRPORTS, STATIONS, AND TERMINALS
Authors: Herdian Bayu Ash Siddiq Raden , Hidayatulloh Hamzah , Alam M. Saepul , Nur Fadhillah Shafira , Yuniar Gina , Valensia Widde , Wulansari Amanda , Kurniawan Rizki , Zulchumairoh Nurhasanti Disty
Published: June 2024

Indonesia is known as an archipelagic country because it has thousands of islands spread from Sabang to Merauke. To connect an area or island to another, Indonesia has various modes of public transportation. Facilities on public transportation modes must be adequate to accommodate prospective passengers who will travel to an area. Evaluation of public facilities is very necessary to increase passenger comfort. This research was carried out using direct observation methods and using literature reviews from sources on the internet. In this research, there are several modes of public transportation discussed, namely Ketapang Harbor, Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport, Bandung Station, and Guntur Melati Terminal. Ketapang Port has several shortcomings, namely improving the weather information system, improving the traffic operational system, improving services, and expanding the dock. Then, Gusti Ngurah Rai Airport has a shortage of VVIP parking spaces, so improvements are needed. According to the Regulation of the Minister of Communications No. 63 of 2019 on the Minimum Service Standards for Passenger Traffic by Rail, Bandung Station has not met the standards in terms of safety, security, comfort and convenience. Meanwhile, according to the regulation of PM No. 40 of 2015 on the Standards of Service for the Maintenance of Passenger Terminals of Road Transportation, the Guntur Melati Terminal also still has deficiencies in the safety and conveniency aspects.
Korean Wave's Influence on BT21 Purchases in Indonesia
Authors: Putri Rachelita Agista Nasruhan , Hariasih Misti
Published: June 2024

The influence of Korean Wave Brand Ambassadors and Influencers on purchasing decisions for BIS "BT21" products was examined in this study. Korean Wave, a phenomenon of Korean pop culture, has significantly impacted global markets. Companies leverage this trend to boost product sales through brand ambassadors and influencers. Despite its popularity, the specific impact on consumer purchasing decisions remains underexplored. This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the effects of Korean Wave, Brand Ambassadors, and Influencers on BT21 product purchasing decisions in Sidoarjo, East Java. Using a quantitative approach, the research sampled 96 consumers who have purchased BT21 products, employing the Lemeshow formula for sampling. Data were collected through a questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale and analyzed using SmartPLS version 3.0 software. The results indicated that the Korean Wave positively and significantly influences purchasing decisions for BT21 products. Similarly, Brand Ambassadors and Influencers also have a positive and significant impact on purchasing decisions. The findings suggest that the Korean Wave, alongside strategic use of Brand Ambassadors and Influencers, can effectively enhance consumer loyalty and boost product sales. These results have important implications for marketing strategies, particularly in leveraging cultural phenomena and influential figures to drive consumer behavior. Highlight: Significant Impact: Korean Wave, Brand Ambassadors, and Influencers significantly influence BT21 purchasing decisions. Quantitative Analysis: Study used quantitative methods and SmartPLS software for data analysis. Marketing Strategies: Findings highlight the importance of leveraging cultural trends and influential figures in marketing.   Keywoard: Korean Wave, Brand Ambassadors, Influencers, BT21, Consumer Behavior
Determination of the Optimal Parameters for Microwave Ablation of Liver Tumor
Authors: Bošković Nikola , Radjenović Branislav , Radmilović-Radjenović Marija
Published: June 2024

Microwave ablation is a minimally invasive cancer treatment with high survival and low recurrence rates. Despite the unquestionable benefits of microwave ablation, the interaction between the medical tool and the tissue may cause damage to the surrounding tissue, which can be removed by clarifying the conditions for their development. In addition to clinical methods, computer simulation has proven to be a very effective tool to optimize microwave ablation performance. This study aimed to determine the optimal input power for complete microwave tumor ablation with an adequate safety margin while avoiding injury to surrounding healthy tissue. The liver tumor model was based on a real tumor labeled 1.02 in the 3D-IRCADb-01 database. Calculations were performed for a 10-slot microwave antenna with a frequency of 2.45 GHz using COMSOL Multiphysics. The obtained simulation results revealed that with proper input power, the necrotic tissue was mainly located in the tumor with minimal damage to the surrounding healthy tissue. This study may represent a step forward in planning individual microwave ablation procedures for each patient.
Innovative techniques in fiberglass post removal: cone beam computed tomography combined with the guided endodontics: a case report
Authors: Wanderley Victor Aquino , Câmara João Victor Frazão , Santos Lethycia Almeida , Ferrari Carolina Ruis , Freire Bernardo Barbosa
Published: June 2024

Objective: This case report describes the effectiveness of utilizing a guided endodontics (GE) with cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for removal a fiberglass post.
Case report: A 42-year-old male patient presented with discomfort in the maxillary left central incisor. Clinical and radiographic assessments revealed tooth 21 with a permanent core material retained by a fiberglass post, accompanied by apical radiolucency. A conservative fully guided approach was proposed for nonsurgical root canal retreatment and fiberglass post removal. Following the acquisition of CBCT images and a cast surface scan, their data were integrated using implant planning software and overlaid. By employing the guided access technique, the post could be removed with enhanced precision and efficiency, facilitating the completion of endodontic retreatment. Conclusion This method exhibited a high level of reliability, enabling the fiberglass post's removal and thorough root canal disinfection without unnecessary dentin removal, thus ensuring a safer endodontic retreatment. Moreover, the GE template created through virtual planning prevented iatrogenic errors.
Effects of diabetes, hypercholesterolemia and low-density lipoprotein levels on survival in patients with cervical cancer
Authors: Qiu Qian , Song Rong jian , Zheng Xiang qin , Zheng Hui , Yi Huan
Published: June 2024

Background
Cervical cancer is a prevalent malignancy and an important health concern worldwide. Recent research highlighted the potential impact of metabolic factors (such as hyperlipidemia and diabetes) on cancer progression, increased mortality and patient outcomes. However, insufficient data have been reported regarding their relationship with cervical cancer. This study aimed to investigate the relationships between metabolic factor disorders (such as dyslipidemia and dysglycemia) and survival in cervical cancer patients.
Methods
We retrospectively analyzed demographic information, clinical characteristics, and metabolic health indicators. Cervical patients were divided into four groups: high triglyceride, high low-density lipoprotein, high cholesterol and diabetes groups. The log-rank test was used to compare the survival rate between different patient groups and identify the associated risk factors. Survival curves generated via the Cox proportional hazards model were used to evaluate the associations between metabolic parameters and survival.
Results
The Cox proportional hazard model was used to analyze data from 840 cervical cancer patients between 28 and 72 years old who underwent surgery. The hazard ratio (HR) of mortality was 1.804 (95% CI: 1.394–2.333, p < 0.001) in the high-density lipoprotein group, 0.758 (95% CI: 0.558 to 1.030, p < 0.001) in the high-triglyceride group, 1.794 (95% CI: 1.304–2.470, p < 0.001) in the high low-density lipoprotein group, and 0.011 (95% CI: 0.005–0.025, p < 0.001) in the diabetes group. These factors were significantly associated with reduced survival in cervical cancer patients, and these associations persisted after adjusting for age, cancer stage, and treatment type.
Conclusion
This study highlights the importance of metabolic health and the importance of controlling metabolic disorders (such as hyperlipidemia and diabetes) to improve survival outcomes in patients with cervical cancer.
The Relationship Between Body Mass Index and Cerebrospinal Fluid Pressure in Children with Pseudotumor Cerebri
Authors: Çağ Yakup , Sağer Safiye Güneş , Akçay Merve , Kaytan İsmail , Söbü Elif , Erdem Aydan , Akın Yasemin
Published: June 2024

Background
Childhood obesity has become a major global health problem. Obesity is associated with major health problems, such as diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, cardiovascular disease. Obesity is also considered a risk factor for Pseudotumor cerebri (PTS). The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between body mass index (BMI), and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure in patients with pseudotumor cerebri.
Methods
A total of 48 children diagnosed with PTS, who were aged < 18 years and followed up in the pediatric clinic were included in the retrospective study. National BMI percentile curves were used for reference. We investigated statistically the relationship between BMI, clinical and laboratory results, and CSF pressure in patients.
Results
Of total patients 27 were female (56.25%) and 21 were male (43.75%). With regard to the BMI percentile, 20 (41.67%) were overweight or obese. CSF pressure was higher in overweight and obese patients compared to children with BMI in normal ranges (p < 0.05). A statistically significant positive correlation was also observed between BMI and CSF pressure values and between monocyte and CSF values (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
The results of the present study indicate a direct relationship between CSF pressure and BMI in children with PTS. Appropriate diet, exercise, and medical treatment in overweight and obese children can make a significant contribution to the treatment of PTS. Additionally, a significant correlation was observed between CSF pressure and monocyte levels.
Current-Sensorless Robust Sliding Mode Control for the DC-DC Boost Converter
Authors: Oucheriah Said
Published: June 2024

A current-sensorless PWM-based robust sliding mode controller is proposed for the DC-DC Boost Converter,
a nonminimum phase system that presents major challenges in the design of stabilizing controllers. The development of the controller requires the measurement of the output voltage and the estimation of its derivative. An extended state observer is used to estimate a lumped uncertainty that comprises the uncertain load and input voltage and also to estimate the derivative of the output voltage. A linear sliding surface is used to derive the
controller that is simple in its design and yet exhibits excellent features in term of external disturbance suppression and despite the absence of the inductor current feedback. Its robustness is validated by computer simulations using a converter example from a recent study. Future work will be the validation of these results experimentally.
Assessment of Water Quality of The São Gonçalo River in The Urban Section of São Domingos do Norte-ES
Authors: Dalfior Thainá , Santos Felipe Sombra , Yokoyama Lídia
Published: June 2024

The Water Quality Index (WQI) gathers information on physical-chemical and bacteriological parameters. This article analyzed, monthly for one year, water samples collected at the source and downstream of the São Gonçalo River in the municipality of São Domingos do Norte, at Espírito Santo. The average accumulated precipitation of the month that preceded the collection was grouped into dry and rainy periods. Precipitation data allowed classification into dry and rainy periods (p-value 0.0084). The WQI values were calculated and statistically evaluated regarding the collection point and precipitation (p-value 0.0125). In dry periods, the WQI presented lower values than in rainy periods. It was observed that at the source of the river, the WQI value was higher than downstream from the urban center due to anthropological action. Finally, the research allowed the identification of the temporal and spatial variation of the water body resulting from contamination by sewage contribution.
Three-dimensional Magnetic field in a protoplanetary disk
Authors: Ohashi Satoshi , Muto Takayuki , Tsukamoto Yusuke , Kataoka Akimasa , Tsukagoshi Takashi , Momose Munetake , Fukagawa Misato , Sakai Nami
Published: June 2024

In protoplanetary disks around young stars, magnetic fields play an important role for disk evolution and planet formation [1-3]. Polarized thermal emission from magnetically aligned grains is one of the reliable methods to trace magnetic fields [4,5]. However, it has been difficult to observe magnetic field by dust polarization in protoplanetary disks because other polarization mechanisms involving grown dust grains become efficient [6,7,8]. Here, we report muti-wavelengths (0.87 mm, 1.3 mm, 2.1 mm, and 2.7 mm) observations of polarized thermal emission in the protoplanetary disk around HD 142527 that shows the lopsided dust distribution [9,10,11,12]. We revealed that the smaller dust still exhibits magnetic alignment in the southern part of the disk. Furthermore, angular offsets between the observed magnetic field and the disk azimuthal direction were discovered, which can be used for a novel approach to measure the relative strengths of each component (radial (Br), azimuthal (B∅), and vertical (Bz)) of 3D magnetic field. Applying this method, we, for the first time, derived the magnetic field around a 200-au radius from the protostar as |Br|:|B∅ |:|Bz| ~ 0.26±0.01:1:0.23±0.03 and a strength of ~ 0.3 milli Gauss. Our observations provide some key parameters of magnetic activities including the plasma beta, which have been only assumed in theoretical studies. In addition, the radial and vertical angular momentum transfer show comparable, which poses a challenge to theoretical studies of protoplanetary disks.
Insights into Mycobacteriome Composition in Mycobacterium bovis-Infected African Buffalo (Syncerus caffer) Tissue Samples: A Culture-Independent Approach
Authors: Ghielmetti Giovanni , Kerr Tanya J. , Bernitz Netanya , Mhlophe Sinegugu K. , Streicher Elizma , Loxton Andre G. , Warren Robin M. , Miller Michele A. , Goosen Wynand J.
Published: June 2024

Animal tuberculosis significantly challenges global health, agriculture, and wildlife conservation efforts. Mycobacterial cultures necessitate stringent biosafety measures due to the risk of laboratory-acquired infections. In this study, we employed a culture-independent approach, using targeted long-read-based next-generation sequencing (tNGS), to investigate the mycobacterial composition in DNA extracted from Mycobacterium bovis infected culture-confirmed African buffalo tissue. We detected mycobacterial DNA in 93.3% of the samples and the sensitivity for detecting Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) was 91.7%, demonstrating a high concordance of our culture-independent tNGS approach with mycobacterial culture results. We identified heterogenous mycobacterial populations with various non-tuberculous mycobacteria, including members of the Mycobacterium avium complex, M. smegmatis, and M. komaniense. The latter Mycobacterium species was described in South Africa from bovine nasal swabs and environmental samples from the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, which was the origin of the buffalo samples in the present study. This finding suggests that mycobacterial DNA found in the environment may confound detection of MTBC in wildlife. In conclusion, our approach represents an alternative to conventional methods for detecting mycobacterial DNA. This high-throughput technique enables the differentiation of heterogeneous mycobacterial populations and facilitates relative quantification, which will contribute valuable insights into the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and microbial synergy during mycobacterial infections.
Seroprevalence of Cytomegalovirus among Pregnant Women in Singapore
Authors: Partana Pamela , Yee Wan Wei , Chow Venessa Xin Yu , Chan Jerry Kok Yen , Kok Tan Lay , Ching Tan Wei , Hsiang Lim Gek , Liying Yang
Published: June 2024

Background Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is the most common congenital infection in pregnancy with potential long-term adverse effects on the fetus. There is limited data on CMV seroprevalence in pregnant women in Singapore, with last reported study dating back over two decades. We look at the latest CMV seroprevalence in antenatal population in Singapore.
Methods Between January 2021 and August 2021, 385 pregnant women receiving antenatal care at Singapore General Hospital were randomly selected for CMV IgG test to be performed on their blood samples collected during the first trimester of their pregnancies. Positivity for CMV IgG represents past exposure prior to pregnancy.
Results Overall CMV seroprevalence was 71.7% (276/385). The trend of CMV IgG positivity increased with age, 68.3% in those aged 20-29, 72.5% in the 30-39 age group, and 79.0% in women over 40.
Conclusions There is a declining trend in CMV seroprevalence among pregnant women in Singapore, which indicates that a substantial portion of this population faces the risk of primary maternal CMV infection during pregnancy. Emerging research suggests that prenatal treatment with valacyclovir effectively reduces the likelihood of vertical transmission. Considering this evidence, it is imperative to reevaluate the recommendations for universal maternal CMV screening during pregnancy.
Activation of the COX-2/mPGES-1/PGE-2 cascade through the NLRP3 inflammasome contributes to Angiostrongylus cantonensis-induced eosinophilic meningoencephalitis
Authors: Chen Ke-Min , Lu Cheng-You , Lai Shih-Chan
Published: June 2024

Prostaglandin E2 (PGE-2) is synthesised by cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase 1 (mPGES-1). PGE-2 exhibits pro-inflammatory properties in inflammatory conditions. However, there remains limited understanding of the COX-2/mPGES-1/PGE-2 pathway in Angiostrongylus cantonensis-induced meningoencephalitis. This study revealed several key findings regarding the activation of the COX-2/mPGES-1/PGE-2 pathway and its correlation with eosinophilic meningoencephalitis induced by A. cantonensis infection. Immunostaining revealed an increase in the expression of COX-2 and mPGES-1 in the subarachnoid space and glial cells compared to control subjects. Inhibition of the NLRP3 inflammasome by small interfering RNA (siRNA) blocked extracellular secretory proteins (ESPs) stimulated COX-2, mPGES-1 and PGE-2 in microglia. MCC950, an NLRP3 inhibitor, inhibited the levels of the COX-2, mPGES-1, and PGE-2 proteins induced by A. cantonensis in mice. Treatment of mice infected with A. cantonensis with the COX-2 inhibitor NS398 significantly reduced the levels of mPGES-1, PGE-2, and MMP-9 levels. Similarly, the mPGES-1 inhibitor MF63 significantly reduced PGE-2 and MMP-9 levels in A. cantonensis-infected mice. Administration of MCC950, NS398, or MF63 resulted in marked attenuation of blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and eosinophil counts in A. cantonensis-infected mice. These findings highlight the critical role of the COX-2/mPGES-1/PGE-2 pathway and its regulation by the NLRP3 inflammasome in the pathogenesis of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis induced by A. cantonensis infection. Furthermore, pharmacological interventions targeting this pathway, such as MCC950, NS398, and MF63, show promising therapeutic potential in mitigating associated inflammatory responses and disruption of the BBB. The results indicate that blocking NLRP3 using pharmacological (MCC950) and gene silencing (siNLRP3) methods emphasised the crucial involvement of NLRP3 in the COX-2/mPGES-1/PGE-2 pathway. This suggests that the activation of the COX-2/mPGES-1/PGE-2 axis in response to A. cantonensis infection may be mediated through a mechanism involving the NLRP3 inflammasome.
Strengthening ENSO amplitude asymmetry: historical trends and future projections in a warming climate
Authors: Ding Ruiqiang , Ren Zhengyi , Li Jianping , Yu Jin-Yi , Cai Wenju , Tseng Yu-Heng , Fang Xiang-Hui
Published: June 2024

The amplitude asymmetry between warm (El Niño) and cold (La Niña) phases of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) has been observed to undergo changes in response to greenhouse warming. However, there is still no consensus on how this asymmetry may evolve in the future, especially in terms of complex types of ENSO events. In this study, we analyze observational sea surface temperature (SST) datasets spanning over a century to investigate the long-term trends of amplitude asymmetry in the eastern Pacific (EP) and central Pacific (CP) ENSO events. Our findings reveal a significant strengthening trend in the El Niño-La Niña amplitude asymmetry over the past century for both CP and EP events. This strengthening trend is attributed to the mean state change induced by greenhouse warming over the equatorial Pacific, and its impact on the modulation of ENSO feedback processes. Furthermore, using a large ensemble model projection, we suggest that the ongoing enhanced ENSO amplitude asymmetry could continue to strengthen until 2100 under the RCP8.5 greenhouse scenario.
“Acute Pancreatitis Following Finasteride Toxicity: A Rare Case Report"
Authors: Mohammadi Mohammadreza , Hakemi Arman , Toussi Alireza Ghassemi , Dadpour Bita , Mousavi Reza , Ghamsar Anahita Alizadeh
Published: June 2024

Background: Finasteride, commonly used for benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenetic alopecia, has a generally safe profile, primarily associated with sexual and psychological side effects. However, rare cases of acute pancreatitis associated with its use require careful investigation due to the severity of such an adverse effect.
Case Presentation: We report a case of acute pancreatitis in a 32-year-old Iranian man following an intentional overdose of 200 tablets of 5 mg finasteride in a suicide attempt. The patient, with no significant medical or family history of pancreatic disease, presented with acute upper abdominal pain, nausea, and vomiting. Laboratory tests confirmed acute pancreatitis, characterized by markedly elevated amylase and lipase, high triglycerides, and mild metabolic acidosis. The patient was treated with aggressive hydration and total parenteral nutrition, resulting in significant clinical improvement over three days.
Discussion: This case illustrates the potential for severe finasteride-induced pancreatitis, particularly in overdose situations. Although the mechanism by which finasteride may cause pancreatitis is not fully understood, disruption of steroid hormone metabolism may be involved. Recognition of drug-induced pancreatitis is important because of the common use of medications such as azathioprine, valproic acid, and diuretics, which are known to cause this condition.
Conclusion: Given the rarity of finasteride-related pancreatitis, further investigation into its pathophysiology and risk factors is warranted. This case highlights the importance of considering drug-induced pancreatitis in patients presenting with abdominal symptoms and a history of medication use, particularly in the context of overdose. This could lead to a reassessment of the safety profile of finasteride and improved patient management strategies.
Investigation of the recurrent flash flood events in the Far-North Region of Cameroon
Authors: Djomdi Ernest , Aretouyap Zakari , Feujio Dady Herman Agogue , Legrand Charles Ngog II , Nguimgo Cedric Nguimfack , Kpoumie Abas Ndinchout , Nouck Philippe Njandjock
Published: June 2024

A flash flood is a natural phenomenon generally occurring in regions with dense and compact rainfall. The arid Far-North Region of Cameroon (FNRC) is subject to such climate conditions which result in recurrent flash flood events. Those events often cause numerous deaths and important property damage. This article aims at mitigating and reducing flood risks in the FNRC using a GIS-based multicriteria decision-making technique. For this, data were collected from the radar sensor ALOS PALSAR 2, the optical sensor Landsat 9 Operational Land Imager (OLI), and WorldClim 2. From the aforementioned datasets, ten influencing layers, namely curvature, drainage density, elevation, distance to rivers, distance to lakes, land use/land cover (LULC), rainfall, slope, stream power index (SPI) and topographic witness index (TWI) were prepared, normalized, and combined on a GIS environment. The resulting map of the flood susceptible zones (FSZ) reveals two-fifths of the FNRC is seriously threatened by flash flood events. FSZ are clearly demarcated and mapped, and this map is of paramount importance for sustaining safe settlements in the FNRC. In the context of scarce ground data, as in the FNRC where there is a single rain gauge located at the airport, a combined remote sensing-analytical hierarchy process is effective for flash flood investigation. This approach can help in flash flood analysis in other regions of the world.
Development and Validation of a Histological Calculator for Anastomotic Margins to Predict Anastomotic Failure Among Rectal Cancer Patients Treated with Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Liu Zhun , Huang Shenghui , Xu Meifang , Yu Qian , Song Jianyuan , Chen Zhifen , Huang Ying , Chi Pan
Published: June 2024

Purpose
To identify histological features of anastomotic margins and develop a prediction model for anastomotic failure (AF) in rectal cancer (RC) patients with neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT).
Methods
A total of 350 pairs anastomotic “doughnuts” from RC with nCRT were randomly divided into the primary and validation cohorts at a ratio of 7:3. The histological features were identified and constructed using LASSO (Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator) regression to develop the radiation-induced colorectal injury (RCI) score. An AF prediction mode based on the RCI score was built and evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) and decision curve, decision curve analysis (DCA), and the DeLong test.
Results
The primary cohort consisted of 245 patients, among whom AF occurred in 26.9% of cases, while the validation cohort comprised 105 patients, with an AF rate of 24.8%. The RCI score of anastomotic margins showed a significant correlation with AF (odds ratio: 2.963; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.298–3.822; P < 0.001). Multivariable analysis identified body mass index (BMI) < 18.5, tumor location, long-course radiotherapy, and the RCI score as independent predictors for AF. The nomogram based on the RCI score exhibited good discrimination in both the primary cohort (AUC: 0.886; 95% CI: 0.840–0.931), with a sensitivity of 86.36% (95% CI, 75.7–93.6%) and specificity of 76.54% (95% CI, 69.6–82.5%). Calibration curves revealed satisfactory agreement between the predicted and the observed probabilities.
Conclusions
The comprehensive nomogram incorporating the RCI score could assist physicians in predicting AF and formulating personalized treatment strategies for RC patients with neoadjuvant radiotherapy.
Seed coating with novel sodium alumino silicate margosa composite – A proficient technique to reduce mycotoxins of Fusarium fujikuroi species complex inciting discoloration of rice
Authors: SINGH NAVDEEP , Sharma Anju Bala , Mandal Kousik , Manchanda Pooja
Published: June 2024

Infestation of fungi during storage of grains causes about 4.6–6% wastage of cereal grains. Among other fungi Fusarium fujikuroi speciescomplex (FFSC) is one of the major causes of grain discoloration of rice. Due to the negative impacts of toxicgenic FFSC complex on seed health and quality metrics, it significantly reduces the market value of rice seeds. Apart from nutrient losses to rice seeds toxic fungal metabolites like fumonisin B1, fumonisin B2, fusaric acid, and gibberellic acid produced by FFSC complex interacts with physiological parameters influencing the integrity of seeds during storage. Due to the detrimental effects on seed germination and vitality, chemical seed treatments are usually avoided while the seeds are in storage. This paper presents the efficacy of novel sodium alumino silicate (SAS)-Margosa composite against toxigenic FFSC complex viz., F. fujikuroi, F. verticillioides, and F. proliferatum during storage of rice seeds with augemented antitoxin and seed invigorating potential. The novel SAS-Margosa composite was chemically and morphologically characterized using XRD, FTIR, TEM, and EDS analysis. The antifungal potential of margosa leaf extract adsorbed nanosilicate material (SAS) was examined using SEM, Flourescence microscopy and poison food technique. The toxin quantification of FFSC complex inoculated seeds treated with SAS-Margosa composite was carried out at monthly intervals upto a period of six months of storage along with control on two rice varieties viz., PR114 and Pusa Basmati 1121 respectively. The study revealed that SAS-Margosa composite coated seeds of PR114 and Pusa Basmati 1121 exhibited significanlty higher seed germination (87.63 & 83.57%) and minimum seed rot (5.70 & 5.24%) after 6 months of storage as compare to control. There was a significant decrease in levels of fusaric acid, fumonisins B1, B2 and gibberellic acid after six months as compare to control in both the varieties. The SAS-Margosa composite has been proved to be effective against toxigenic FFSC complex during rice seed storage without compromising the seed quality metrics.
N-glycan-modified α-L-iduronidase produced by transgenic silkworms ameliorates symptoms in a Japanese macaque with mucopolysaccharidosis I
Authors: Itoh Kohji , Shinoda Chika , Kitakaze Keisuke , Sasai Yuya , Nishioka So-ichiro , Kobayashi Isao , Sumitani Megumi , Tatematsu Ken-ichiro , Iizuka Tetsuya , Harazono Akira , Mitani Ai , Kaneko Akihiko , Imamura Masanori , Miyabe-Nishiwaki Takako , Go Yasuhiro , Takeuchi Yoshie , Mizuno Teru , Kiriyama Kei , Tsukimoto Jum , Nadanaka Satomi , Ishii-Watabe Akiko , Kinoshita Takashi , Kitagawa Hiroshi , Suzuki Yasuyuki , Oishi Takao , Sezutsu Hideki
Published: June 2024

Mucopolysaccharidosis type I (MPS I) is an inherited lysosomal storage disorder (LSD) caused by recessive mutations in the α-L-iduronidase (IDUA) gene. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) utilizing terminal mannose 6-phosphate (M6P)-carrying N-glycans attached to therapeutic enzymes produced by mammalian cell lines has been clinically applied to several LSDs. Recent studies suggested an unidentified delivery pathway mediated by sialic acid-containing N-glycans. However, more economical platform development is required to produce large quantities of recombinant enzymes. Transgenic silkworms have been established as low-cost systems for expressing recombinant glycoproteins. Microbial endo-β-N-acetylglucosaminidases (ENGases) enable the transglycosylation of N-glycans to other types. In the present study, we established IDUA transgenic silkworms and purified recombinant human IDUA from cocoons. As M6P- and sialic acid-containing N-glycans were not attached to purified hIDUA, we performed ENGase-mediated transglycosylation to obtain hIDUAs with M6P- and sialic acid-containing N-glycans (neoglyco-hIDUAs). Furthermore, we performed intravenous neoglyco-hIDUA replacement therapy in a Japanese macaque MPS I non-human primate model carrying a homozygous Idua missense mutation and succeeded in improving the clinical symptoms and reducing the urinary glycosaminoglycan (GAG) levels. These glycotechnologies using transgenic silkworms and ENGases are expected to serve as platforms for developing therapeutic glycoproteins.
Collision Detection Method for Anchor Digging Machine Water Drilling Rig
Authors: Liu Zhi-xiang , Yan Shu-tong , Zou Kang , Xie Miao
Published: June 2024

Loading exploration and drainage drilling machine on the anchor machine can effectively increase the tunneling efficiency. In order to avoid the interference between the water drilling rig and the anchor machine in the working process, it is necessary to calculate the joint variables of the drilling rig accurately. Using the robot kinematics analysis method, the kinematics model of the system is established. At the same time, combined with bounding box collision detection technology, the key parts of the equipment are mathematically modeled. A method for collision detection of onboard water exploration and drainage drilling rig of anchor digging machine is proposed. The simulation results show : The designed collision detection method can be used to guide the attitude adjustment of the equipment during the drilling operation of the equipment, and can accurately analyze the interference characteristics and collision detection of the equipment. It provides a theoretical basis for the automatic excavation of the research object and the automatic control of drilling. The azimuth adjustment range of the drilling rig for the experiment is : ± 15°, and the pitch angle adjustment range is : + 5° to -10°.
The principles of manufacturing complex carbide compounds based on titanium
Authors: Shapoval Oleksandr , Kulynych Viktoriia , Markov Oleg , Kukhar Volodymyr , Savchenko Iurii
Published: June 2024

Composite hard alloys based on carbides and carbonitrides with a metallic binder are widely used in the metalworking industry and other industrial sectors, both domestically and internationally. This is evidenced by the abundance of scientific research primarily focused on the alloying of carbide and the metallic binder with various additions of refractory metals to improve their operational properties. It's worth noting that the complex carbides were manufactured using the SHS method, which allows for the production of high-quality complex refractory compounds with stable properties, essential for producing composite hard alloys with high operational characteristics. The research included studies on using cheap raw materials, i.e., titanium sponge waste, for producing complex (Ti-W, Ti-Cr) carbide compounds. In Ukraine, there is no technical solution for producing titanium carbide and complex titanium-containing carbide using titanium sponge waste, which is highly relevant. The work studied the impact of the composition of titanium sponge waste, its dispersion, and the amount of impurities on the technological regimes for manufacturing complex carbides and their properties
GPR56/ADGRG1 induces biased Rho-ROCK-MLC and JAK-STAT3 signaling to promote amoeboid-like morphology and IL-6 upregulation in melanoma cells
Authors: Huang Kuan-Yeh , Ng Kwai-Fong , I Kuan-Yu , Chang Yu-Chi , Chen Hsin-Yi , Chen Tse-Ching , Stacey Martin , Lin Hsi-Hsien
Published: June 2024

Background
GPR56/ADGRG1 is an adhesion G protein-coupled receptor that plays a role in cell-matrix interaction and metastasis of human melanoma cells. We have shown previously that GPR56 activation in melanoma cells triggers Gα12/13-RhoA signaling to promote IL-6 production and cell migration. Yet little is known of the downstream signaling effectors and their roles in modulating melanoma cellular phenotypes.
Results
Here, we show that GPR56 activation induces Rho-ROCK-MLC and JAK-STAT3 signaling thereby temporally and differentially promoting amoeboid-like morphology and IL-6 upregulation. Interestingly, GPR56-induced JAK-STAT3 activation is modulated partly by Rho-ROCK-MLC signaling but not vice versa. Moreover, receptor auto-proteolysis is found to control the magnitude of GPR56-mediated signaling whereas its unique intracellular regions are involved in the differential regulation of selective signaling pathways and cellular phenotypes.
Conclusion
Our results uncover intricate GPR56-mediated biased Rho-ROCK-MLC and JAK-STAT3 signaling networks as potential therapeutic targets to regulate distinct tumorigenic phenotypes of human melanoma cells.
Minimum dietary diversity and its associated factors among lactating mothers in rural Sankurra district, Southern Ethiopia
Authors: Zehara Ahmed , melese sinaga
Published: June 2024

Background
Dietary diversity is one aspect of dietary quality used as a proxy indicator for the nutrient adequacy of the diet of individuals. Minimum dietary diversity for women is the consumption of five or more food groups from ten defined food groups by women of reproductive age in the previous day/night. In Ethiopia, about half of lactating mothers consume non-diversified diet. However, there is a limited evidence for rural lactating mothers. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of minimum dietary diversity, and its associated factors among lactating mothers in rural Sankurra district, Southern Ethiopia, 2021.
Method
Community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 523 randomly selected lactating mothers in Sankurra district from May 22 – June 20, 2021]. The data were entered into Epi data version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS version 21. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine the predictors of dietary diversity. Odds ratio with 95% confidence interval and p ≤ 0.05 were used to test the association.
Result
The prevalence of minimum dietary diversity was 24.5%. Having secondary and above educational level [AOR = 4.8, 95% CI:(1.5–15.2)], food-secured household [AOR = 2.6, 95% CI:(1.3–5.4)], medium [AOR = 2.2, 95% CI:(1.17–4.25)] and rich household [AOR = 2.3, 95%CI: (1.29–4.17)], getting nutritional education [AOR = 2.4, 95% CI:(1.2–4.7)], availability of fruits and vegetables in market [AOR = 1.9, 95% CI:(1.1–3.4)] were positively associated whereas selling out of home-produced food item in market [AOR = 0.54, 95% CI:(0.32–0.92)] was negatively associated factor with achieving minimum dietary diversity.
Conclusion
Despite the various public health interventions tried towards lactating mothers in the country, the prevalence of minimum dietary diversity in this study founds to be low. Therefore, giving nutritional education during antenatal care and enabling households to be food secure might help in supporting the efforts made to alleviate this problem.
A Tutorial on Supervised Machine Learning Variable Selection Methods for the Social and Health Sciences in R
Authors: Bain Catherine M. , Shi Dingjing , Ethridge Lauren E. , Norris Jordan E. , Loeffelman Jordan E.
Published: June 2024

With recent increases in the size of datasets currently available in the behavioral and health sciences, the need for efficient and effective variable selection techniques has increased. A plethora of techniques exist, yet only a few are used within the psychological sciences (e.g., stepwise regression, which is most common, the LASSO, and Elastic Net). The purpose of this tutorial is to increase awareness of the various variable selection methods available in the popular statistical software R, and guide researchers through how each method can be used to select variables in the context of classification using a recent survey-based assessment of misophonia. Specifically, readers will learn about how to implement and interpret results from the LASSO, Elastic Net, a penalized SVM classifier, an implementation of random forest, and the genetic algorithm. The associated code and data implemented in this tutorial are available on OSF to allow for a more interactive experience. This paper is written with the assumption that individuals have at least a basic understanding of R.
Predicting the Presence of 4th Ventricular Outlet Obstruction in Chiari I Malformation
Authors: Paik Kenneth , Caudill Caroline , Arynchyna-Smith Anastasia , Rocque Brandon , Rozzelle Curtis
Published: June 2024

Introduction
A subset of children with Chiari 1 malformation (CM-1) have a 4th ventricle arachnoid veil—a thin membrane covering the outlet of the 4th ventricle. Studies suggest that failure to disrupt this veil during posterior fossa decompression can reduce the likelihood of syringomyelia resolution. However, there is no reliable method for predicting the presence of the veil without direct surgical exploration. This study aims to evaluate the association between pre-operative symptoms, radiographic measurements, and the arachnoid veil.
Methods
A retrospective review of an institutional database of children evaluated for CM-I was conducted. For patients treated with surgery, operative notes were reviewed to determine if an arachnoid veil was present. Logistic regression was used to test for relationship of clinical variables and radiographic measurements with the presence of an arachnoid veil.
Results
Out of 997 children with CM-1, 226 surgical patients were included in the analysis after excluding those with inadequate documentation. An arachnoid veil was found in 23 patients (10.2%). Larger syrinx, spinal canal, and thecal sac diameters were significantly associated with the presence of a veil, with odds ratios of 1.23 (95% CI 1.2–1.48; p = 0.03), 1.27 (95% CI 1.02–1.59; p = 0.03), and 1.35 (95% CI 1.03–1.77; p = 0.03), respectively. No significant associations were found with any signs or symptoms.
Conclusions
Arachnoid veil was present in 10% of cases. Radiographic measurements indicating larger syrinx size were the only variables found to be significantly associated with an arachnoid veil. Exploration of the 4th ventricular outlet is recommended for CM-I decompression in the setting of expansile syringomyelia.
Novel technetium-99m-labeled bivalent PSMA-targeting probe based on hydroxamamide chelate for diagnosis of prostate cancer
Authors: Shimizu Yoichi , Ando Masato , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Ono Masahiro
Published: June 2024

Objective: Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) is a well-known biomarker of prostate cancer. Previously, our group reported that the succinimidyl-cystatin-urea-glutamate (SCUE) moiety has a high affinity for PSMA. In this study, we developed the novel technetium-99m-labeled PSMA-targeting probe “[99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2” based on a hydroxamamide chelate with a bivalent SCUE and evaluated its potential as a SPECT imaging probe for the diagnosis of PSMA-expressing prostate cancer.
Methods: Ham-SCUE was synthesized by a one-step reaction with Ham-Mal and cysteine-urea-glutamine. Then, Ham-SCUE was reacted with [99mTc]NaTcO4 for 10 min at room temperature to obtain [99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2. [99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2 was added to LNCaP (high PSMA expression) cells or PC3 (low PSMA expression) cells, and their radioactivity was measured 60 min after administration. The blocking study was performed by co-incubation of LNCaP cells with various concentrations of 2-PMPA (a PSMA inhibitor) for 15 min before adding [99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2. The biodistribution of [99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2 in LNCaP/PC3 dual xenografted C.B.-17/Icr scid/scid Jcl mice was evaluated for 120 min after intravenous injection. The blocking study was performed by pretreatment of mice with 2-PMPA (10 mg/kg weight).
Results: [99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2 was acquired at radiochemical yields of 56% with a radiochemical purity of over 95%. The cellular uptake level of [99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2 by LNCaP cells was significantly higher than that by PC3 cells (LNCaP: 11.12 ± 0.71 vs. PC3: 1.40 ± 0.13 %dose/mg protein, p<0.01), and the uptake was significantly suppressed by pretreatment with 2-PMPA (2.56 ± 0.37 %dose/mg protein, p<0.05). IC50 of 2-PMPA was 245 ± 47 nM. In the in vivo study, the radioactivity of LNCaP tumor tissue was significantly higher than that of PC3 tumor tissue at 120 min after the administration of [99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2 (LNCaP: 9.97 ± 2.79, PC3: 1.16 ± 0.23 %ID/g, p<0.01), and was suppressed by pretreatment with 2-PMPA (2.50 ± 0.45 %ID/g, p<0.01).
Conclusion: [99mTc]Tc-(Ham-SCUE)2 has the potential to be a SPECT imaging agent for diagnosing high PSMA-expressing prostate cancer.
Assessment of Liquefaction Vulnerability in Silt and Sand Predominance Soil Layers of Bori City
Authors: Kennedy Charles
Published: June 2024

The geotechnical characteristics of the sub-soil layers in Bori, Nigeria were investigated to assess the liquefaction vulnerability of the predominantly silt and sandy soils. Standard penetration tests (SPT) were conducted, revealing significant depth-dependent variations in soil resistance. The upper 0–10 m of soil exhibited very low SPT-N values (3–10 blows), indicating loose, soft and highly compressible deposits. This makes the shallow layers highly susceptible to liquefaction during seismic events, as emphasized by prior studies. Deeper soil layers showed an increasing trend in SPT-N values (15–30 blows at 10–20 m, 30–36 blows beyond 20 m), suggesting denser and more compact conditions with reduced liquefaction potential. The natural moisture content also exhibited depth-dependent behavior, with higher values (20-29.3%) in the upper layers and decreasing values (7.9–15%) at greater depths. This moisture content variation, combined with the SPT-N trends, further highlights the liquefaction vulnerability of the shallow soil profile. Specific gravity analysis showed values typical of the Niger Delta region, ranging from 2.60–2.72, with lower values in the upper layers and gradual increases at depth. The comprehensive geotechnical dataset provided by this study fills an important gap in the knowledge of the Bori sub-soil conditions. The findings can inform the development of site-specific hazard mitigation plans, earthquake-resistant foundation design guidelines, and other geotechnical engineering applications to enhance resilience in the region, which faces risks from tremors and potential seismic events.
Genetic Insights into Coronary Artery Disease in Underrepresented Populations: Assessing Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization across Diverse Ancestry Populations
Authors: Fatumo Segun , Silva Sarah , Hughes David , Kintu Christopher , Tcheandjieu Catherine , Nitsch Dorothea
Published: June 2024

Understanding the causal effect of modifiable risk factors on a disease is crucial for aiding and shaping public health policies, identifying targets of interventions and advancing our global understanding of health and diseases. With this however, the disproportionate representation of non-European ancestries in research has raised important questions regarding the transferability and reliability of genetic findings on a diverse global scale. In this study, we investigated the feasibility of conducting a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis in populations of diverse ancestries, focusing on both methodological challenges and biologically differences when data from European, East Asian, South Asian and African ancestry populations were compared against each other. Employing data generated from large-scale genome-wise association studies (GWAS), we chose to compare the causal effects of lipid traits, blood pressure, body-mass index, type-2 diabetes and kidney function on coronary artery disease. Due to an insufficient number of identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms in non-European data when strict alpha thresholds were employed, we were not able to conduct MR analyses across all ancestry populations until the threshold was relaxed. We found that allowing for a lenient inclusion threshold and extending the MR methodology to be more inclusive of non-European data resulted in an increase in weak instrument bias, resulting in imprecise estimates and a reduced ability to detect true causal effects. Notably, our results showed causal associations known to be inconsistent with established findings, specifically between lipid traits in South Asian populations compared to European ancestry populations. These findings reiterate the urgent need for independent large-scale GWAS in non-European populations, to improve the power and reliability of MR studies as well as to develop methods which take into account population-specific effects.