bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body-first and Brain-first Parkinson's Disease Subtypes Exhibit Distinctive Gut Microbial Dysbiotic Patterns
Authors: Lee Eun Jeong , Park Don Gueu , Kang Woorim , Shin In-Ja , Chalita Mauricio , Oh Hyun-Seok , Hyun Dong-Wook , Kim Hyun , Chun Jongsik , An Young-Sil , Yoon Jung Han
Published: January 2024

Parkinson's disease, a complex neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons and the presence of alpha-synuclein aggregates in Lewy bodies, exhibits clinical diversity prompting a proposed classification into two subtypes: body-first, originating in the peripheral nervous system, and brain-first, initiating in the central nervous system. Recent evidence links gut microbiome dysbiosis to alpha-synuclein aggregation in the gut, prompting a comprehensive study utilizing shotgun metagenomics to explore the roles of the gut microbiome in these subtypes. Categorizing patients based on premotor rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (RBD) and cardiac meta-iodobenzylguanidine (MIBG) uptake revealed significant beta diversity differences between body-first and brain-first subtypes. The body-first subtype exhibited more pronounced dysbiosis, characterized by increased Escherichia, Enterobacter, and Akkermansia, and decreased Roseburia, Agathobacter, and Faecalibacterium. Functionally, these changes were associated with alpha-synuclein aggregation pathways and decreased neuroprotective putrescine/spermidine biosynthesis. Premotor RBD and heart MIBG were considered as subtype indicators based on microbiome profiles, with the latter showing higher sensitivity and the former demonstrating better specificity. Random forest analysis confirmed their combination as optimal indicators for gut microbiome-based classification, shedding light on Parkinson's disease heterogeneity and emphasizing the gut microbiome's substantial impact on both subtypes. The study underscores the potential for innovative therapeutic interventions targeting the gut microbiome in Parkinson's disease, marking a significant step toward personalized approaches for diagnosis, treatment, and management based on subtype-specific characteristics and microbial signatures.
The 2023 record low Antarctic sea ice traced to synergistic influences of preconditioning, wind-induced transport and the ice albedo feedback
Authors: Yang Qinghua , Wang Jinfei , Massonnet François , Goosse Hugues , Luo Hao , Barthélemy Antoine
Published: January 2024

Antarctic sea ice extent (SIE) reached a new record low in February 2023. In this study, we trace this record back to its possible origins by providing a detailed view on the evolution of the coupled ocean-atmosphere-sea ice system during the 12 months preceding the record. The impact of preceding conditions is assessed with observations, reanalyses, and output from the regional ocean-sea ice coupled model NEMO3.6-LIM3. We find that the 2022–2023 annual cycle was characterized by consistently low SIE throughout the year, anomalously high SIE melting rates in December 2022, and nearly circumpolar negative SIE anomalies in February 2023. From March to August 2022, advection-induced positive air temperature anomalies inhibited the growth of sea ice in the Weddell and Bellingshausen Seas. Concurrently, strong southerly winds in the Eastern Ross Sea caused by an anomalously deep Amundsen Sea Low in spring transported significant volumes of sea ice northward, contributing to severe melting offshore in December while triggering the ice-albedo feedback onshore through coastal divergence. This ice-albedo feedback was unusually active in late 2022 and favored accelerated melt towards the minimum. This study highlights the impacts of multifactorial processes during the preceding seasons to explain the recent summer sea ice minima.
Visible-Light Photocatalytic Direct Arylation of Arenes Using Silver Iodide Nanoparticles Supported on Magnesium-Aluminium Layered Double Hydroxide
Authors: Han Pengfei , Waclawik Eric , Bottle Steven , Yang Xuheng , Wang Jianfang , Tao Cheng-an , Zhu Huai Yong
Published: January 2024

The direct arylation of inactive arenes with aryl halides stands as a well-established and fundamental method in organic synthesis for synthesizing biaryls. However, current direct arylation methods suffer from the generation of substantial chemical waste, reliance on moisture-sensitive reagents, and harsh reaction conditions that involve using either organic acids or potent bases. Here we report a photocatalytic system based on AgI-decorated magnesium-aluminium-layered double hydroxide (MgAl-LDH), which operates effectively under visible light, eliminating the need for base or other additives. The alignment of energy levels between catalyst components and reactant enables the system to harness visible light or sunlight irradiation for the generation of aryl and •OH radicals from aryl iodides and MgAl-LDH surface, respectively, facilitating direct C-H arylation, producing only water and iodine as by-products. Furthermore, the surface hydroxyl groups of MgAl-LDH can be readily regenerated. Our discovery provides an efficient, eco-friendly and cost-effective approach to C-H arylation.
Is it inevitable to have dynamic horizontal acromioclavicular joint instability with a single Tightrope? A randomized prospective study
Authors: Arafa Mohamed S. , Ibrahim Mohamed , Lädermann Alexandre , Magdy Ahmed , Elkayal Engy S.
Published: January 2024

Purpose: We hypothesized that not all cases of single Tightrope fixation in acromioclavicular joint dislocation cases should give positive clinical cross body adduction test and might have some certain degree of horizontal stability which might be confirmed with ultrasound examination.
Materials and Methods: This clinical study was performed on twenty-seven patients who retrospectively underwent single Tightrope application in acute acromioclavicular joint dislocation. Patients were divided into group A which had an arthroscopic technique and group B that had an open technique augmented with trans-acromioclavicular joint fixation using two k-wires for six weeks in all group B cases. Clinical examination of operated shoulders was done, and results were compared to sound shoulder examination in the same patient at the last 24 months post-operative follow-up visit besides, results of the cross-body adduction test were correlated with ultrasound findings at the same visit. Records, operative details, and post-operative X-rays were reviewed to assess if any factors would diminish the dynamic horizontal stability of the acromioclavicular joint. Body mass index (BMI(was calculated per each case.
Results: Group A had seventeen cases, three had grade III and fourteen had grade V dislocations. Group B had ten cases, four had grade III, and six had grade V. Clinical cross-body adduction test gave gross positive results in fourteen patients in group A and six patients in group B. Group A patients with negative results were three while Group B patients with negative results were four. For ultrasound findings, differences in horizontal translation of the clavicle within the acromioclavicular joint in resting and cross-arm positions were more obvious in all operated shoulders than all sound shoulders.
Conclusion: The less the Rockwood grading, the more potential to secure more horizontal stability. An open approach also gives more horizontal stability. With increased BMI, horizontal instability is usually masked. So, some factors may diminish, or mask clinical dynamic horizontal instability which can be confirmed or rolled out with ultrasound usage.
Effect of the Application of Humanized Nursing Care on the Clinical Outcomes of Neonates with Hyperbilirubinemia
Authors: Galalah Eman Salah Elmetwaly , El-mahdy Heba Saied Mohamed , Mahdy Nagafa Hafez farag , Abdelgawad Sahar Mahmoud Elkhedr
Published: January 2024

Background
Neonatal hyperbilirubinemia is a potentially fatal condition that has toxic effects on the brain and may have negative effects. Humanized care is a comprehensive approach that focuses on the nutritional, therapeutic and hygienic needs of neonates, which helps in the resolution of hyperbilirubinemia.
Method
A quasi experimental design was utilized in this study to evaluate the effect of humanized nursing care application on the clinical outcomes of neonates with hyperbilirubinemia. It was carried out at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Tanta Main University Hospital. A total of 120 neonates with hyperbilirubinemia who fit the inclusion criteria were blindly assigned to both the study and control groups. The data were collected using the biosocial-demographic characteristics of the studied neonates and neonatal clinical outcome measures for humanized care.
Results
On the seventh day after receiving humanized care, total bilirubin levels in the study group decreased to 4.03 ± 1.48 compared to 10.21 ± 2.08 in the control group; there was also a decline in the time of jaundice regression with a mean of 3.966 ± 1.09 in the study group compared to 4.66 ± 1.29. in the control group. The mean days of phototherapy were 1.83 ± 0.73 in the study group and 2.41 ± 1.01 in the control group. Additionally, oxygen saturation increased significantly on the 7th day in the study group compared to the control group; the mean amount of daily milk intake was 752.8 ± 262.9 ml in the study group compared with 600.76 ± 290.31 ml in the control group.
Conclusion
Applying humanized care improved neonatal clinical outcomes, including O2 saturation, jaundice regression, enhanced newborn feeding and decreased duration of phototherapy.
Paired Electrocatalysis Unlocks Cross-Dehydrogenative Coupling of C(sp3)-H Bonds Using A Pentacoordinated Cobalt-Salen Catalyst
Authors: Zhang Sheng , Liu Ke , Lei Mengna , Li Xin , Zhang Xuemei , Zhang Ying , Fan Weigang , Li Man-Bo
Published: January 2024

Cross-dehydrogenative coupling (CDC) of C(sp3)-H bonds is an ideal approach for C(sp3)-C(sp3) bonds construction. However, conventional approaches mainly rely on the single activation mode by either stoichiometric oxidants or electrochemical oxidation, which would lead to inferior selectivity in the reaction between similar C(sp3)-H bonds. We herein developed a paired electrocatalysis strategy to access an unconventional selectivity in the CDC of alcoholic α C(sp3)-H with allylic (or benzylic) C-H bonds, which combines hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) catalysis with hydride transfer (H-T) catalysis. To maximize the synergistic effect of the catalyst combinations, a novel HER catalyst pentacoordinated Co-salen was disclosed, and it displayed a large redox-potential gap (1.98 V) and suitable redox potential. With the optimized catalyst combination, an electrochemical CDC protocol features an unconventional chemoselectivity (C-C vs. C-O coupling), excellent functional group tolerance (83 examples), useful byproduct (hydrogen), high regio- and site-selectivity. A plausible reaction mechanism was also proposed to rationalize the experimental observations.
Proteomics of colorectal tumors identifies the role of CAVIN1 in tumor formation and progression
Authors: Olsen Jesper , Martinez-Val Ana , Hoeven Leander van der , Bekker-Jensen Dorte , Jørgensen Margarita , Nors Jesper , Franciosa Giulia , Andersen Claus , Bramsen Jesper
Published: January 2024

Omics-based molecular signatures can be employed to stratify colorectal cancer (CRC) patients and aid therapeutic treatment or evaluate prognostic outcome. However, reliable molecular biomarkers for identification of patients at risk of relapse are currently lacking. Here, we present a comprehensive multi-omics analysis of a Danish colorectal cancer tumor cohort composed of 371 patients diagnosed at TNM stage II or III. Utilizing proteome profiles, we classified the tumors into four molecular subtypes, including a mesenchymal-like subtype. Mesenchymal-rich tumors are known to represent the most invasive and metastatic phenotype. Therefore, we focused on this subtype protein signature to identify potential relapse risk markers. Among mesenchymal-subtype markers, we followed-up Caveolae-Associated Protein-1 (CAVIN1) and demonstrated its role in tumor progression in a 3D in vitro model of colorectal cancer. Compared to previous CRC studies, our proteomics analysis contributes unique insights into epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition in cancer cells with stronger correlations with risk of relapse.
Detecting errors and understanding optimization strategies in scale up process of Green Fluorescent Protein using E. coli JM109 strain: A comparative study of shake flask and batch fermentation approaches
Authors: Miteu Goshen David
Published: January 2024

Background
Scale-up of recombinant protein production processes is a crucial step in biotechnology and involves the transition from small-scale shake flasks to large-scale bioreactors. This study aimed to detect errors and understand optimization strategies in the scale-up process of Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) production using E. coli JM109 strain by comparing shake flask and batch fermentation approaches.
Results
Scale up process failed (product yield efficiency was < 1). Shake flask cultures gave higher GFP production levels than the batch fermentation approach. The differences in GFP yield were attributed primarily to inconsistent KLa and OTR among other factors such as plasmid stability, cell density and scale-up parameters. Furthermore, the study investigated the impact of process parameters like wet cell weight, dry cell weight, and optical density on GFP productivity. It was observed that despite having a high cell density in the batch fermentation approach, the total protein yield in mg/mL was lower compared to the shake flask method values (200 F = 6.247, 250 F = 8.024, 200 SF = 9.948, 250 SF = 10.209). The influence of promoter regions on GFP expression and the potential benefits of protein engineering for enhancing protein production was also explored.
Conclusions
The results underscores the importance of understanding and optimizing various factors during the scale-up process to ensure efficient GFP production and management of resources. By keeping OTR constant and addressing issues such as plasmid stability, lysis step, cell density, viability, scale-up parameters, and promoter activity, GFP yield can be improved in large-scale bioreactors. Additionally, protein engineering strategies could provide valuable tools for enhancing GFP expression and production, ultimately contributing to the development of more efficient protein production platforms in the biotechnology industry.
Surveillance of Rugose Spiraling Whitefly, Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Infesting Coconut to Reduce the Invasion Threat in Bangladesh
Authors: Rahman Md. Mahbubur , Dutta Nirmal Kumar , Sarkar Md Akhtaruzzaman , Nuruzzaman Md , Islam Md Rashedul
Published: January 2024

The Rugose spiraling whitefly (RSW), Aleurodicus rugioperculatus Martin, is a new invasive pest in Bangladesh that was first reported in May 2019 infesting coconut trees. In this context, the present study was carried out to respond to this pest immediately by evaluating the seasonal incidence of this pest and establishing a suitable management procedure to control it. Seasonal abundance of RSW populations was observed at weekly intervals from January 2021 to December 2022. Seasonal variations have been observed in RSW infestation of coconuts. The RSW populations prevailed throughout the year, peaking in April-May and September-October in both 2021 and 2022. Among different climatic factors, temperature played a significant role in the growth of these pest populations. Of six treatments tested, the chemical insecticide Acetamiprid (Tundra® 50 SP) was most effective, reducing pest numbers by over 80% after initial and follow-up applications. Initial application of bio-pesticides yielded a more modest 44.83-65.98% control, with D-Lemonine (Bio clean® 5% SL) performing best. A second spray of D-Lemonine lowered nymph, puparium, and adult populations by 82.11%, 82.12%, and 83.53% respectively compared to untreated trees. Furthermore, when Acetamiprid and D-Lemonine were used in combination, they demonstrated a high level of efficacy in controlling the RSW. Therefore, implementing a rotation spraying strategy that involves the use of Acetamiprid followed by D-Lemonine can be considered a sustainable management option to combat RSW infestation in coconut trees. This rotation utilizes chemical and organic options while avoiding the overuse of any single method.
The impact of COVID-19 pandemic on hospital admissions, operations, heart attacks and births in the years 2018-2022 – observational study
Authors: Krzyżanowski Wojciech , Jasińska-Gniadzik Karolina , Kuśmierczyk Maciej , Szczerbińska Marta , Natkowski Paweł , Grabowski Marcin
Published: January 2024

This article investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on healthcare system by examining the functioning of the Masovian Specialist Hospital in Ostroleka, Poland. The study included data gathered between January 1st, 2018 and July 7th, 2022. We considered March 14th, 2020 as the beginning of the pandemic in Poland and May 16, 2022 as the end. The total pool of patients admitted to the hospital in Ostroleka served as the study sample. The analyzed metrics included hospital admissions, number of surgical operations, births and myocardial infarction cases. The data from the pre-pandemic and pandemic period were compared. The study found that during 2020 the total number of hospital admissions decreased by 17.1% compared to the previous year. In 2021, the situation improved by 8.2%. In 2020 there were 19.4% fewer operations than in 2019, and in 2021 it decreased by another 4.1%. In 2019 the number of births decreased by 20,2%, it increased in 2020 by 8,4%. A decrease by 21.2% was noted in 2021. In the first half of 2022 the monthly number of births oscillated only around 40. From January 2018 to July 2022, the number of heart attacks recorded did not change significantly.
Background-Focused Contrastive Learning for Unpaired Image-to-Image Translation
Authors: Shao Mingwen , Han Minggui , Meng Lingzhuang , Liu Fukang
Published: January 2024

Contrastive learning for Unpaired image-to-image Translation (CUT) aims to learn a mapping from source to target domain with an unpaired dataset, which combines contrastive loss to maximize the mutual information between real and generated images. However, the existing CUT-based methods exhibit unsatisfactory visual quality due to the wrong locating of objects and backgrounds, particularly where it incorrectly transforms the background to match the object pattern in layout-changing datasets. To alleviate the issue, we present Background-Focused Contrastive learning for Unpaired image-to-image Translation (BFCUT) to improve the background’s consistency between real and its generated images. Specifically, we first generate heat maps to explicitly locate the objects and backgrounds for subsequent contrastive loss and global background similarity loss. Then, the representative queries of objects and backgrounds rather than randomly sampling queries are selected for contrastive loss to promote reality of objects and maintenance of backgrounds. Meanwhile, global semantic vectors with less object information are extracted with the help of heat maps, and we further align the vectors of real images and their corresponding generated images to promote the maintenance of the backgrounds in global background similarity loss. Our BFCUT alleviates the wrong translation of backgrounds and generates more realistic images. Extensive experiments on three datasets demonstrate better quantitative results and qualitative visual effects.
Artificial Intelligence in Medical Education- Perception Among Medical Students
Authors: Jackson Preetha , S Gayathri P , Babu Chikku , Tony Christa , Jack Deen Stephano , Davis Dency , R Reshma V. , Kurian Nisha , John Anjum
Published: January 2024

Background
Artificial Intelligence( AI) is increasingly being integrated into various aspects of human life, including healthcare, with applications such as robotic surgery, virtual nursing assistants, and image analysis. Recognizing the transformative impact of AI in healthcare, the World Medical Association advocates for the inclusion of AI education in medical curricula to prepare healthcare professionals for this emerging field. This study aims to assess medical students' perceptions on AI in medicine, their preferences for structured AI training during medical education, and their understanding of the ethical dimensions associated with AI in healthcare.
Materials & Methods
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 325 medical students in Kerala, India using a pre-validated, semi-structured, self- administered questionnaire. The survey collected demographic information, assessed participants' prior knowledge of AI, and evaluated their self-perceived understanding of AI concepts. Participants' responded to twelve 5-point Likert scale questions regarding their perceptions on AI in medicine and expressed their opinions on the inclusion of certain AI topics in medical curricula.
Results & Discussion
Most participants (57.2%) viewed AI as an assistive technology, capable of reducing errors in medical practice. A significant percentage(54.2%) believed that AI could enhance the accuracy of medical decisions, while 48.6% acknowledged its potential to improve patient access to healthcare. Concerns were raised by 37.6% of participants' about the potential decrease in the need for physicians, leading to unemployment. Additionally, apprehensions were expressed regarding the impact of AI on the humanistic aspects of medicine, with 69.2% fearing a decline in the human touch. Participants' also recognized potential challenges to "trust"( 52.9%), and the patient- physician relationship(54.5%). Notably, over half of the participants' were uncertain about maintaining professional confidentiality(51.1%) and believed that AI might violate confidentiality( 53.5%). Only 3.7% felt competent enough to inform patients' about features and risks of AI. Participants' expressed a strong need for structured training in AI applications, especially on the topic of "reducing medical errors"( 76.9%), and "ethical issues" arising from the widespread use of AI in healthcare(79.4%).
Conclusion
This study underscores the demand among medical students for structured AI training within the undergraduate medical curriculum, emphasizing the importance of incorporating AI education to meet evolving healthcare needs. While there are widespread ethical concerns, the majority are convinced that AI can be used as an assistive technology in healthcare. The findings contribute essential insights for curriculum development and the definition of learning outcomes in AI education for medical students.
HIF-1α-mediated LAMC1 expression is an unfavorable predictor of prognosis for glioma patients: Evidence from pan-cancer analysis and validation experiments
Authors: Bai Jianrong , Zhao Yang , Shi Kai , Fan Yonghao , Ha Yanping , Chen Yan , Luo Botao , Lu Yanda , Jie Wei , Shen Zhihua
Published: January 2024

Background
Laminin subunit gamma-1 (LAMC1) is a major extracellular matrix molecule involved in the tumor microenvironment. Knowledge of the biological features and clinical relevance of LAMC1 in cancers remains limited.
Methods
We conducted comprehensive bioinformatics analysis of LAMC1 gene expression and clinical relevance in pan-cancer datasets of public databases and validated LAMC1 expression in glioma tissues and cell lines. The association and regulatory mechanism between hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and LAMC1 expression were explored.
Results
LAMC1 expression in most cancers in The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) including glioma was significantly higher than that in normal tissues, which had a poor prognosis and were related to various clinicopathological features. Data from the Chinese Glioma Genome Atlas also showed high expression of LAMC1 in glioma associated with poor prognoses. In clinical glioma tissues, LAMC1 protein was highly expressed and correlated to poor overall survival. LAMC1 knockdown in Hs683 glioma cells attenuated cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Most TCGA cancers including glioma showed enhancement of HIF-1α expression. HIF-1α expression was positively related to LAMC1 expression in glioma. HIF-1α directly upregulated LAMC1 promotor activity. Hypoxia (2% O2)-treated Hs683 and U251 cells exhibited upregulated HIF-1α and LAMC1 expression, which was significantly attenuated by HIF-1α inhibitor YC-1 and accompanied by attenuated cell proliferation and invasion.
Conclusions
High expression of LAMC1 in most cancers including glioma suggests a poor prognosis. Moreover, activation of the HIF-1α/LAMC1 axis in a hypoxic microenvironment promotes glioma progression and may be a therapeutic target in cancer.
Advantages of the Laparoscopic Approach Versus Open Surgery for Colorectal Cancer Patients Undergoing Hemodialysis
Authors: Hung Hsin-Yuan , Huang Shu-Huan , Tsai Tzong-yun , You Jeng-Fu , Hsieh Pao-Shiu , Lai Cheng-Chou , Tsai Wen-Sy , Tsai Kun-Yu
Published: January 2024

Purpose:
Although minimally invasive colorectal surgery has been proven to have a shorter hospital stay and fewer short-term complications than open surgery, the advantages of laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer patients undergoing hemodialysis have not been validated. This study compared the outcomes of open and laparoscopic approaches in these patients.
Materials and Methods
Between January 2007 and December 2020, we retrospectively analyzed the clinical data of 78 hemodialysis patients who underwent curative-intent, elective colorectal surgery. Patients were divided into two groups according to the surgical method: open and laparoscopic.
Results:
Postoperative morbidity (p = 0.480) and mortality (p = 0.598) rates and length of hospital stay (28.8 vs. 27.5 days, p = 0.830) were similar between the groups. However, laparoscopic surgery patients had a shorter return to clear liquid, full liquid, or soft food time than open surgery patients (p < 0.001, p = 0.007, and p = 0.002, respectively). Disease-free survival and long-term cancer-specific survival rates were also similar between the two groups (p = 0.353 and p = 0.201, respectively). Multivariate analysis revealed that intraoperative blood transfusion was a risk factor for severe complications and mortality (OR 6.055; p = 0.046), and the odds ratio (OR) of laparoscopic surgery was not significantly greater than that of open surgery (OR = 0.537, p = 0.337).
Conclusion:
Although laparoscopic surgery did not result in hemodialysis patients having a shorter postoperative hospital stay, our results suggest that the laparoscopic approach is as safe as open surgery for hemodialysis patients and is especially beneficial for shortening the return time to food intake.
Exploring AR and VR Tools in Mathematics Education through Culturally Responsive Pedagogies
Authors: Bertrand Marja Gabrielle , Sezer Hatice Beyza , Namukasa Immaculate Kizito
Published: January 2024

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have been noted to enhance student learning by supporting spatial reasoning and visualization, long-term memory, engagement, increased motivation, and decreased anxiety. We will explore the following research questions: In what ways do AR and VR digital tools potentially increase student motivation and engagement when learning mathematics and coding in the classroom? What are teachers’ thoughts on the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of AR and VR technologies and culturally responsive practices in the context of mathematics education? We conducted a qualitative case study interlinked with Design-Based Research (DBR). Data were collected using surveys, interviews, observations, and documentation. There were 54 students and 7 adult participants. Students in grades three to eight, in a STEAM camp, applied mathematical thinking and modelling in a web-based design app, Cospaces Edu, to better understand abstract and complex mathematical concepts. This study provides a blueprint for how teachers can be mentored in creating and implementing AR and VR activities intertwined with storytelling and culture in the classroom. It highlights promising results when teaching mathematics concepts through AR and VR activities: students' motivation was boosted by the storytelling and game-like environment in Cospaces Edu which translated into more meaningful learning experiences.
The expression of β2-integrins LFA-1 and MAC-1 on Blood Leucocytes and Kidneys of Patients with ANCA-associated Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Yu Meilian , Cheng Lu , Xue Lujia , Ren Qian , Liang Yan , Ma Liang , Fu Ping , Gou Shenju
Published: January 2024

Increasing evidence revealed that the interaction between leukocytes and endothelium mediated by β2-integrins played a vital role in the pathogenesis of ANCA-associated vasculitis. The study was to study the expression of the two key β2-integrins, LFA-1 and MAC-1, on blood leucocytes and kidneys of patients with ANCA-glomerulonephritis (ANCA-GN) using flow cytometry and immunochemistry separately. 63 blood samples and 60 renal biopsy specimens were obtained from patients with ANCA-GN separately. Flow cytometry showed that the percentage of blood neutrophils expressing LFA-1 was significantly increased in patients ANCA-GN compared to those in HCs. Whereas the mean fluorescence intensity of LFA-1 and MAC-1 on blood neutrophils was dramatically decreased. In the glomeruli, a little expression of LFA-1 could be detected in both normal controls and patients with ANCA-GN, while MAC-1 was detected in patients with ANCA-GN. In the tubulointerstitial compartment, the expression of LFA-1 and MAC-1 could be detected both in normal controls and patients with ANCA-GN, but the mean optical density (MOD) of the two β2-integrins were significantly increased in patients with ANCA-GN than those of normal controls. In conclusion, LFA-1 and MAC-1 on blood leucocytes and kidney express differently between patients with ANCA-GN and healthy controls. LFA-1 and MAC-1 may play a role in the pathogenesis of ANCA-GN.
Computational Verification of the Collatz Problem
Authors: Barina David
Published: January 2024

This article presents our project, which aims to verify the convergence of the Collatz problem computationally. As a main point of the article, we introduce a new result that pushes the limit for which the problem is verified up to 1.5 × 270. We present our baseline algorithm and then several sub-algorithms that bring some acceleration. The total acceleration from the first algorithm we used on the CPU to our best algorithm on the GPU is 1 335×. We further distribute individual tasks to thousands of parallel workers running on several European supercomputers. Besides the convergence verification, our program also checks for path records during the convergence test. We found four new path records.
Deciphering the immune heterogeneity dominated by RGS1+ TAMs with prognostic implications and identification of novel immunotherapeutic biomarker CD83 in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Sun Jiazheng , Guo Hehua , Nie yalan , Zhou Sirui , Zeng Yulan , Sun Yalu
Published: January 2024

Background
Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are a specific subset of macrophages that reside inside the tumor microenvironment (TME). The dynamic interplay between TAMs and tumor cells plays a crucial role in the treatment response and prognosis of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). The study aimed to examine the association between TAMs and LUAD to advance the development of targeted strategies and immunotherapeutic approaches for treating this type of lung cancer.
Methods
The study employed scRNA-seq data to characterize the immune cell composition of LUAD and delineate distinct subpopulations of TAMs. The "BayesPrism" and "Seurat" R packages were employed to examine the association between these subgroups and immunotherapy and clinical features to identify novel immunotherapy biomarkers. Furthermore, a predictive signature was generated to forecast patient prognosis by examining the gene expression profile of RGS1 + TAMs and using 104 machine-learning techniques.
Results
A comprehensive investigation has shown the existence of a hitherto unidentified subgroup of TAMs known as RGS1 + TAMs, which has been found to have a strong correlation with the efficacy of immunotherapy and the occurrence of tumor metastasis in LUAD patients. CD83 was identified CD83 as a distinct biomarker for the expression of RGS1 + TAMs, showcasing its potential utility as an indicator for immunotherapeutic interventions. Furthermore, the prognostic capacity of RTMscore signature, encompassing three specific mRNA (NR4A2, MMP14, and NPC2), demonstrated enhanced robustness when contrasted against the comprehensive collection of 104 features outlined in the published study.
Conclusion
The identified RGS1 + TAMs have substantial implications for the treatment and prognosis of LUAD patients.
Antagonism of Propofol Anesthesia by Alkyl-fluorobenzene Derivatives
Authors: Plasencia Diana M. , Rodgers Liam H. , Knighton Alexys R. , Eckenhoff Roderic G. , White E. Railey
Published: January 2024

Despite their frequent use across many clinical settings, general anesthetics are medications with lethal side effects and no reversal agents. A fluorinated analogue of propofol has previously been shown to antagonize propofol anesthesia in tadpoles and zebrafish, but little further investigation of this class of molecules as anesthetic antagonists has been conducted. A 13-member library of alkyl-fluorobenzene derivatives was tested in an established behavioral model of anesthesia in zebrafish at 5 days post fertilization. These compounds were examined for their ability to antagonize propofol and two volatile anesthetics, as well as their binding to the anesthetic-binding model protein apoferritin. The two compounds demonstrating highest antagonistic potency were found to bind apoferritin in a manner similar to propofol. Selected compounds did not show antagonism of volatile anesthetics, indicating some selectivity of this antagonism. Similarities in structure and binding to apoferritin as well as a Schild analysis are suggestive of competitive antagonism, but like the anesthetics, the potential mechanism(s) of these antagonists will require further mechanistic investigation.
The Impact of Gender Inequality on Economic Growth: An Empirical Approach for OECD Countries
Authors: Talafha Qusai , AlSamman Ala
Published: January 2024

In this paper we explain how we used the generalized method of moments (GMM) analysis technique to estimate the relationship between the gender wage gap and economic performance for an unbalanced panel data for both OECD and European countries during the period 1980–2015. The results show that an increase of 1% in wage inequality between the two genders leads to a 0.002% decrease in the economic growth rate per capita in the case of OECD countries and a 0.003% decrease in the case of European countries. The relationship is statistically significant at 5% and 10% for each of the country groups respectively, which is consistent with previous studies.
Path analysis of the influence of obstetric violence on the postpartum quality of life: the mediating role of psychological factors Running title: obstetric violence and the postpartum quality of life
Authors: Kohan Shahnaz , Mena-Tudela Desirée , Youseflu Samaneh
Published: January 2024

Background
Pregnancy and childbirth as important events in women's lives should be guided based on quality and humanized principles. This study aimed to test a conceptual model considering the interrelated role of obstetric violence, mental health, self-esteem, and PTSD on the postpartum quality of life (PQOL) using path analysis.
Methods
This cross-sectional study was conducted on 385 parturient women who have given birth from January to May 2022 using the convenience sampling method. Data were collected using a socio-demographic checklist, EPREVO, DASS-21, PCL-5, Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale, and PQOL scales. Path analysis was applied to generate specified patterns of causal relationships between variables and to determine the type of relationships between predictor and response variables using LISREL software ver.8.8.
Results
We found that obstetric violence (β= -0.659), self-esteem (β = 0.223), mental health (β= -0.396), and PTSD (β = 0.345) are the main predictors of postpartum QoL. In addition to its direct effect, obstetric violence can impress the PQOL through the effect on mental health (β = 0.0.533), self-esteem (β = 0.222), and PTSD (β = 0.229), indirectly.
Conclusion
Our finding highlighted the negative effect of obstetric violence on mental health, self-esteem, PTSD, and PQOL. Therefore, it is recommended that policymakers and managers adopt programs to promote respectful maternal care and prevent obstetric violence to prevent the occurrence of adverse effects in parturient women.
Deep Learning Based Non-Contact Communication using Air-Coupled Leaky Lamb Wave
Authors: Fan Zichuan , Zou Tao , Ling Yuxi
Published: January 2024

Ultrasound is used as an alternative to conventional communication in scenarios with severe electromagnetic shielding and interference. Ultrasonic guided waves, like Lamb waves, exhibit favorable transmission characteristics in platy structures, enabling long-distance propagation with low energy loss. This paper proposes a non-contact data transmission method using air-coupled leaky Lamb waves. Wave conversion and multipath interference have nonlinear effects on air-coupled leaky Lamb wave communication. To decode received temporal signals, a lightweight deep residual network (ResNet) designed for end-to-end time series classification (TSC) is employed. Real-world transmission experiments on a platy structure with a pitch-catch configuration were conducted, comparing three modulation methods: amplitude shift keying (ASK), frequency shift keying (FSK), and binary phase shift keying (BPSK). The trained ResNet achieved 1 recognition accuracy for each modulation. In bit error rate (BER) experiments, the error rate for each modulation was 0.
Research and optimization of task schedulingalgorithm based on heterogeneous multi-coreprocessor
Authors: Liu Junnan , Liu Yifan , Ding Yongkang
Published: January 2024

Heterogeneous multi-core processor has the ability to switch between differenttypes of cores to perform tasks, which provides more space and possibility forrealizing efficient operation of computer system and improving computer computing power. Current research focuses on heterogeneous multiprocessor systemswith high performance or low power consumption to reduce system energy consumption. However, some studies have shown that excessive voltage reductionmay lead to an increase in transient failure rates, reducing system reliability. Inorder to solve this problem, this paper studies the energy optimal schedulingproblem of HMSS with DVFS under the constraints of minimum time and reliability, and proposes an improved wild horse optimization algorithm (OIWHO),which improves the efficiency of heterogeneous task scheduling and shortens thetask completion time. The algorithm uses the learning and chaos perturbationstrategies based on opposition and crossover strategies to balance the search andutilization capabilities, and can further improve the performance of OIWHO.Compared with previous work, our proposed algorithm has more advantagesthan existing algorithms. Experimental results show that the average computingtime of OIWHO algorithm is 13.38%, 10.90%, 6.97%, 2.39% and 3.21% fasterthan QHA, PSO, GWO, LFD and OIWOA, respectively. Especially when solvinglarge-scale problems, our algorithm takes less time than other algorithms.
On gradient Riemann solitons invariant by rotation
Authors: Menezes Ilton Ferreira , Batista Elismar Dias , Tokura Willian Isao
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we consider Riemann solitons that are conformal to an Euclidean space. Assuming that the solutions of the presented system of partial differential equations are invariant under the action of the orthogonal group, we provide all the solutions for the gradient Riemann solitons. We show that a gradient Riemann soliton (M, g) is both geodesically complete and rotationally symmetric if and only if g is the canonical product metric on R × S n−1. Furthermore, this soliton is shrinking.
Strategy for Optimizing Human Capital Export from Pakistan: A Game-Theoretic Approach with a Focus on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Authors: Shah Akhtar Hussain , Shah Syed Sibghatullah
Published: January 2024

This comprehensive study strategically addresses the export of human capital from Pakistan, focusing specifically on the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) region, within the framework of game theory and the crucial influence of social capital. Employing a game-theoretic model, this research navigates the complex interplay between potential migrants and host countries, incorporating the dynamics of asymmetric information, cultural and social influences, and the nuances of Pakistan's educational and economic sectors. Methodologically, the study blends qualitative insights with quantitative rigor, including mathematical derivations from game-theoretic principles, specifically exploring the prisoner's dilemma model. This approach effectively dissects the strategic decision-making processes in human capital export, revealing pivotal interactions between human and social capital. The results articulate optimal strategies for exporting human capital, underlining a multiplier effect that arises from the synergistic relationship between human and social capital. The findings emphasize the immense potential for bolstering human capital export from regions like KPK by resolving informational asymmetries, customizing educational initiatives to align with global market demands, and strengthening industry-academic collaborations. Crucial in this endeavor is the utilization of social capital networks. The study culminates in a set of policy recommendations that hold relevance not only for Pakistan but also for other developing countries facing analogous challenges in human capital mobilization. This research makes a significant contribution to the fields of labor economics, educational policy, and international development. It offers a sophisticated understanding of the dynamics of human capital export in a developing country context, providing actionable insights for policymakers, educators, and economic strategists.
JEL Codes: J24, F22, O15, C72
Pre-service science teachers’ preference of methods in a teaching-learning transaction
Authors: MHLONGO THABO , Sedumedi Thomas Dipogiso
Published: January 2024

Teachers in science education use various teaching methods in different topics. Practical work activities (PWAs) and traditional direct teaching methods (DTMs) are common in science education classrooms. This paper reports on an exploratory study conducted among pre-service science teachers’ (PSTs) preferences of two teaching methods for their learning. The study explored associative relations between students’ preferences of methods with their achievements, in specific science topics at two levels of a teacher training course. The study adopted a cohort design. A quantitative descriptive data analysis of preference scores against achievement for each method to establish relations used. The outcome indicated that, on individual basis, some associative relations exist between method preferences and student achievement for particular students. Most students prefer the PWAs to the DTMs and students who prefer DTMs are more adapted to both methods than students who prefer the PWAs. Thus, from these relations, the researchers can conclude that adaptation or maturation to teaching methods plays a role in student learning. Therefore, teachers may have to consider these varied outcomes as important for instructional design purposes and the selection of teaching methods for different cohorts of students.
Excellent tribological properties of Al2O3/MoS2/Ce(PO4) composite layers in- situ prepared on 6082-T6 alloy
Authors: Li Qian , Shang Jian
Published: January 2024

Al2O3/MoS2/Ce(PO4) composite ceramic coating was in-situ prepared on aluminum alloy by micro-arc oxidation. The results show that the content of (CH3CO3)3Ce·xH2O has a great influence on the microstructure of the ceramic layer. When the addition amount is 7.5 g/L, the surface hardness of the ceramic layer is 961.97 HV, which is 1.8 times that of the unadded and 8.36 times that of the matrix. Tribological tests show that the moderate addition of (CH3CO3)3Ce·xH2O also significantly improves the wear resistance of the ceramic layer. Composite layer research can be developed and applied to other alloys to improve their friction properties.
Strategic Human Resource Management (SHRM) and Inclusion for promoting Workplace Creativity and Innovation: Systematic Review
Authors: Eshete Shimekit Kelkay , ) Chalchissa Amentie (Associate Professor
Published: January 2024

Methodology: The study conducted a comprehensive review of research by analyzing 78 articles from reputable journals published between 2010 and 2023.
Purpose: The purpose of the study was to examine how strategic human resource management (SHRM) and inclusion can promote workplace creativity and innovation among employees.
Findings: The findings of the study indicate that inclusive SHRM practices should focus on various policies and practices across three main human resource practice domains: knowledge and abilities, drive and effort, and opportunities to contribute. Line managers play a crucial role in implementing inclusive SHRM practices to encourage workplace creativity and innovation. Integrating SHRM and inclusion strategies can harness the potential of diverse ideas and perspectives within the organization.
Originality: The originality of the study lies in its comprehensive review of multiple articles and its focus on the integration of SHRM and inclusion strategies to promote creativity and innovation in the workplace. The study highlights the importance of HR managers, professionals, and line managers in implementing inclusive policies and practices to engage and empower the diverse workforce. It also suggests that future research should explore different aspects of SHRM's impact on organizational inclusion.
Stochastic simulations decipher the role of site-specific selection and seed migration in the maintenance of genetic variation in self-fertilizing annual weeds species
Authors: Revolinski Samuel R. , Burke Ian C.
Published: January 2024

High rates of self-fertilization have long been associated with weediness in plants. Complete self-fertilization prevents effective genetic recombination, reducing effective population sizes by one half, theoretically reducing genetic variation present in populations. However, predominantly self-fertilizing plants such as downy brome (Bromus tectorum) have been successful in adapting to and subsequently invading many environments or adapting to management inputs. They often have adaptively relevant levels of multi-locus standing genetic variation manifests as phenotypic variation within a single locale of the invaded range. How populations of predominantly self-fertilizing species maintain genetic variation within locales remains unclear. A single locus, self-fertilizing, two-island Fisher-Wright forward genetic simulation with migration was used to explore fundamental questions about the implications of self-fertilization, selection, and migration on the maintenance of genetic/phenotypic variation in populations of annual self-fertilizing weeds species. The Fisher-Wright simulation demonstrated that with migration between locales and differential selection on the allelic state within locales, genetic variation could be maintained indefinitely within locales. Our study corroborates the use of best management practices for minimizing or preventing seed spread that are recommended for the management of herbicide resistance, such as cleaning vehicles or equipment that is transported between sites.