bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of ultrasound transmit frequency on measurement of global longitudinal strain on 2D speckle tracking echocardiography
Authors: Iwakura Katsuomi , Onishi Toshinari , Koyama Yasushi , Iwamoto Mutsumi , Watanabe Satoshi , Tanaka Koji , Sumiyoshi Akinori , Okada Masato , Tanaka Kota , Harada Shinichi , Watanabe Heitaro , Okamura Atsunori
Published: September 2023

The reproducibility of longitudinal strain measured by 2D speckle tracking echocardiography (2DSTE) may be affected by ultrasound settings. This study investigated the effect of transmit ultrasound frequency on global longitudinal strain (GLS) by 2DSTE. Apical, 2- and 4-chamber, and long-axis views were obtained in a consecutive group of 162 patients using Philips ultrasound devices. Three different frequency presets were used sequentially: high resolution (HRES, 1.9 to 2.1 MHz), general (HGEN, 1.6 to 1.8 MHz), and penetration mode (HPEN, 1.3 to 1.6 MHz). GLS values were determined for each preset using the Philips Q-station software, resulting in GLS-HRES, GLS-HGEN, and GLS-HPEN. Among the 151 patients with successfully measured GLS, a significant difference in GLS was observed among the three presets (p < 0.0001). GLS-HRES (-17.9 ± 4.4%) showed a slightly smaller magnitude compared to GLS-HGEN (-18.8 ± 4.5%, p < 0.0001) and GLS-HPEN (-18.8 ± 4.5%, p < 0.0001), with absolute differences of 1.1 ± 1.0% and 1.1 ± 1.2%, respectively. This variation in GLS with frequency was evident in patients with both optimal (n = 104) and suboptimal (n = 47) image quality and remained consistent regardless of ischemic etiology or ejection fraction. In conclusion, ultrasound frequency had only a modest effect on GLS measurements. GLS may be reliably assessed in most cases regardless of the ultrasound frequency used.
Polymer free Nanocomposite from Zeolite and Carbon Black as Glassy Carbon modifier platform for Simultaneous Electrochemical Quantification of Acetaminophen and Caffeine
Authors: Tchoumi Firmin Parfait , Tamo Arnaud Kamdem , Doungmo Giscard , Fotsop Cyrille Ghislain , Kemmegne-Mbouguen Justin Claude , Ngameni Emmanuel
Published: September 2023

Nanocomposite nanozeolite/acetylene black carbon was prepared by combining a type A zeolite with acetylene carbon black (AcB) and used to modify glassy carbon electrode (GCE) without polymer. The zeolite was prepared by hydrothermal method using natural kaolin. The physicochemical characterization of the composite showed a well-integrated composite in which the cubic crystal of the zeolite A and the graphitic aggregate of the carbon black were maintained. The electrochemical impedance spectroscopy study revealed that the composite film GCE (ZA-AcB/GCE) prepared by drop coating displayed a higher kinetic charge transfer compared to pristine zeolite modified GCE (ZA/GCE) and bare GCE. ZA-AcB/GCE, ZA/GCE and GCE were subsequently used to investigate the electrochemical behaviour of acetaminophen (AC) in acidic, neutral and alkaline pHs. The results demonstrate a good electrocatalytic property toward AC at composite film GCE in all these electrolytes compared to bare GCE and confirm the dependence of the electrochemical reaction mechanism of AC on the electrolyte’s pHs. Under optimal conditions, ZA-AcB/GCE exhibited higher sensitivity and selectivity toward both analytes taken individually or simultaneously within large concentration range: 0.5–89 µM for AC and 5–99 µM for CAF with the respective limit of detection of 0.38 and 0.82 µM. The developed sensors were applied successfully in the quantification of the both analytes in pharmaceutical tablets.
Dual-region-based computed tomography radiomics analysis for the non-invasive prediction of telomerase reverse transcriptase status and clinical prognosis in liver cancer
Authors: Zhou Yong , Sun Fengguo , Zhang Changlei , Li Zhaohua
Published: September 2023

Background: Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) can directly regulate various hallmarks of cancer. We aimed to estimate the prognostic value of TERT expression levels in patients with liver cancer and build a radiomics model that can predict the TERT expression levels using The Cancer Imaging Archive (TCIA) and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases.
Methods: Preoperative CT images stored in TCIA with genomic data from TCGA were used for radiomics feature extraction and model construction. The radiomics features were extracted using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression analysis. A logistic regression algorithm was used to construct the model and to extract features based on whole tumor and whole tumor-peritumoral regions; a prognostic scoring system incorporating a radiomics signature based on the TERT expression levels was accepted for survival prediction.
Results: TCGA data on 295 liver cancer cases (203 men; age <60 years, 142 and ≥60 years, 153 participants) were used for gene-based survival analysis. High TERT expression was an independent risk factor for overall survival (OS) deterioration, involved in immune cell infiltration and ferroptosis, and closely related to several signaling pathways. The 34 cases included in the radiomics model for predicting TERT expression levels achieved areas under the curve of 0.827 and 0.803 in the training and validation sets, respectively. The inclusion of clinical features and important imaging biomarkers can improve the model’s accuracy of OS estimation.
Conclusion: Radiomics can predict the prognosis of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma by predicting TERT expression. CT-based radiomics can serve as a novel and effective tool for predicting prognosis in clinical settings.
Expression profile of tsRNAs in white adipose tissue of vitamin D deficiency young male mice with or without obesity
Authors: Jia Qiaowei , Zhao Yan
Published: September 2023

Background
The expression of tsRNA in white adipose tissue (WAT) of VD deficiency male mice with obesity has not been reported.
Methods
The healthy male C57BL/6J mice aged 4–6 weeks were divided into 4 groups according to the VD3 and fat energy supplement in daily diets.
Results
The qPCR verification further demonstrated that 1 tsRNAs (tRF5-20-HisGTG-3, all P < 0.05) were significantly up-regulated and 1 tsRNA (mt-tRF3a-ProTGG, all P < 0.05) was significantly down-regulated not only in HFVDD vs HFVDS, but aslo in HFVDD vs ConVDS. 1 tsRNAs (tRF5-22-CysGCA-27, P < 0.05) were significantly up-regulated and 3 tsRNA (mt-5'tiRNA-32-SerTGA, mt-5'tiRNA-33-SerTGA and mt-5'tiRNA-33-AlaTGC, all P < 0.05) was significantly down-regulated only in HFVDD vs ConVDS. Enrichment analysis of the qPCR verified DE tsRNAs showed that the 3 up-regulated tsRNAs seemed to be associated with FoxO signaling pathway, GnRH secretion, 2 − Oxocarboxylic acid metabolism, Autophagy – animal, Glucagon signaling pathway, AGE − RAGE signaling pathway in diabetic complications, Insulin signaling pathway, Apelin signaling pathway, Alzheimer disease, Pathways of neurodegeneration − multiple diseases, while 4 down-regulated tsRNA seemed to be associated with cell communication, primary metabolic process, metabolic process, response to stimulus, multicellular organismal process, cellular metabolic process, regulation of cellular process, regulation of biological process, and biological regulation.
Conclusions
The tsRNAs were differentially expressed in VD deficiency with obesity, especially tRF5-20-HisGTG-3, tRF5-22-CysGCA-27, tRF3a-GlyGCC-1, mt-5'tiRNA-33-AlaTGC, mt-5'tiRNA-33-SerTGA, mt-5'tiRNA-32-SerTGA and mt-tRF3a-ProTGG. These tsRNAs seemed to be associated with FoxO signaling pathway, GnRH secretion, 2 − oxocarboxylic acid metabolism, autophagy, glucagon and insulin signaling pathway, pathways of neurodegeneration − multiple diseases, metabolic process and biological regulation.
Amplifying Antitumor Efficacy: The Role of UDCA in Modulating Autophagy and Enhancing DOX Response in NSCLC
Authors: Li Ying , Zhao Helian , Shen Zhoumin , Chen Hongjiao , Zheng Yao , Jiang Yuanyuan , song Ying , Cai Yimin
Published: September 2023

Background
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) has long been challenged by the complexities of chemotherapeutic resistance, with autophagy playing a pivotal role in this resistance matrix. The multifaceted interplay between autophagy and tumor behavior, particularly in the context of NSCLC, demands nuanced understanding, given its contradictory roles in tumorigenesis and tumor survival.
Methods
We embarked on an intricate exploration of UDCA's potential in modulating the MAPK pathway, which is instigated by DOX. A systematic evaluation was undertaken of its influence on key autophagy-associated proteins and the cascading effects on pivotal signaling pathways, accentuating the role of TGFβ in this network.
Results
Our data illuminated that UDCA exerts a discernible inhibitory effect on tumor cell proliferation and alters the MAPK dynamics intricately associated with key proteins. Notably, the combined might of UDCA and DOX demonstrated a significant downregulation of TGFβ expression, thereby achieving a pronounced retardation in tumor progression without amplifying associated toxicities. Yet, exogenously introduced TGF-β presented a mitigating counter-effect.
Conclusions
Our findings advocate for UDCA's prospective utility as a potent chemosensitizer, amplifying the therapeutic efficacy of DOX against NSCLC by tactically inhibiting autophagy. This underscores the imperative for further exploration, moving us closer to tailoring precision-based therapeutic regimens centered on UDCA’s unique autophagy modulation capabilities.
Modulatory effect of blood LDL cholesterol on the association between cerebral Aβ and tau deposition in older adults
Authors: Han Seung Min , Byun Min Soo , Yi Dahyun , Jung Joon Hyung , Kong Nayeong , Chang Yoonyoung , Keum Musung , Jung Gi Jung , Lee Jun-Young , Lee Yun-Sang , Kim Yu Kyeong , Kang Koung Mi , Sohn Chul-Ho , Lee Dong Young
Published: September 2023

Background: We aimed to examine whether higher blood low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) synergistically moderates the association of cerebral beta-amyloid (Aβ) with tau deposition in older adults with diverse cognitive spectrum. The associations of various blood lipids, including total cholesterol (TC), LDL-C, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglyceride (TG) with cerebral Aβ and tau, and white matter hyperintensities (WMHs) were also explored.
Methods: A comprehensive clinical evaluation, serum lipid measurements, [11C] Pittsburgh Compound B-positron emission tomography (PET), [18F] AV-1451 PET, and magnetic resonance imaging were performed on all participants.
Results: A total of 136 older adults with normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment or Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia were included. There was a significant Aβ x LDL-C interaction effect on tau deposition indicating a synergistic moderation effect of LDL-C on the relationship between Aβ and tau deposition. Subsequent subgroup analysis showed that the positive association between Aβ and tau deposition was stronger in higher LDL-C group than in lower LDL-C group. In contrast, other lipids (i.e., TC, HDL-C and TG) did not show a similar moderation effect on the relationship between Aβ deposition and tau deposition. Exploratory analysis showed a positive relationship between serum LDL-C and WMH volume, while there were no significant association between any lipids and AD pathologies.
Conclusion: Our findings suggest that blood LDL-C synergistically increases tau pathology with Aβ deposition. In terms of AD pathophysiology, more attention needs to be paid to the role of LDL-C.
Inhaled amphotericin B to prevent invasive fungal disease in patients with severe aplastic anemia after intensive immunotherapy
Authors: CHEN XI , Chai Xingxing , Gong Yuemin , Chen Xiaoyu , Xu Dan , He Guangsheng , Li Jianyong
Published: September 2023

Objective
To evaluate the efficacy and safety of aerosol inhalation of amphotericin B (AmB) in preventing invasive fungal disease (IFD) in patients with severe aplastic anemia (SAA) after intensive immunosuppressive therapy (IST).
Methods
The efficacy and safety of aerosol inhalation of amphotericin B or gargling with sodium bicarbonate/nystatin to prevent IFD in SAA patients within 28 days were compared. Thirty-three cases were assigned to the Am AmB nebulization group and 65 cases to the mouthwash group. Breakthrough fungal infection and related mortality were evaluated.
Results
Five cases of breakthrough fungal infection occurred in the AmB nebulization group, compared to 34 cases in the mouthwash group (15.2% vs 52.3%, p = 0.00083). In the 3 months after IST, no patient died of fungal infection in the AmB nebulization group, as compared to two cases in the mouthwash group (0% vs 28.5%, p = 0.021). No grade III or above AmB-related toxicity events occurred in the aerosol inhalation group.
Conclusion
Aerosol inhalation of AmBB could effectively prevent IFD and related mortality in SAA patients during IST, and the treatment was well-tolerated.
The abundance of the remaining mammalian fauna and the impacts of hunting in a biodiversity hotspot´s hotspot in the Atlantic forest of north-eastern Brazil
Authors: Melo Éverton Renan Andrade , Gadelha José Ramon , Lucena Leandro Ricardo Rodrigues , Pontes Antonio Rossano Mendes
Published: September 2023

Although hunting in the north-eastern Atlantic forest of Brazil began more than 500 years ago, no studies to date have evaluated its impacts on the region´s mammalian fauna. For one year we carried out diurnal and nocturnal surveys using the Line Transect method in forest fragments varying from 7.32 ha to 469.76 ha, within a 4,000 ha forest island archipelago. We calculated species density, population size, biomass and synergetic biomass, and recorded direct and indirect human impacts along the study transects. We recorded 44 mammalian species, of which 45.5% (n = 20) went extinct. The smallest forest fragment had the lowest richness (n = 1), diversity (0.0001), population size (n = 10), and total biomass (38.91 kg/km2). It also had no synergetic biomass. The largest fragment had the highest richness (n = 7), total density (279.52 ind./km2), and population size (n = 1,298 individuals). There was a statistically significant relationship between fragment area and number of gunshots heard (r = 0.825, p = 0.022) and suspended hunting platforms found (r = 0.958, p = 0.001); between population size and gunshots heard (r = 0.871, p = 0.011), suspended hunting platforms (rho = 0.896, p = 0.006), free-roaming and feral dogs (r = 0.786, p = 0.036), and between total density and free-roaming and feral dogs (r = 0.783, p = 0.037). After more than 500 years of colonization hunting is still devastating, with larger fragments being linked to more hunters. Higher mammal abundances attracted more free-roaming and feral dogs, which have adapted to hunt wildlife on their own. Unless we protect every single forest fragment and create sustainable landscapes, we will not be able to save this hotspot´s hotspot.
Optimizing application of the Species Threat Abatement and Restoration (STAR) metric in meeting national biodiversity conservation targets
Authors: Asefa Addisu , Delellegn Yilma , Debella Abdeta Robi , Mario Melese , Dalle Gemedo , Wakjira Kumara , Vergez Antonin , Curet Florence , Tessema Mekbeb
Published: September 2023

The Species Threat Abatement and Restoration (STAR) metric was developed to quantify the contributions that abating threats (STAR-T) and restoring habitats (STAR-R) offer towards reducing global species extinction risk. Currently, global level estimated STAR score is calculated for 5,359 vertebrate species spanning 195 countries, using global level data. Although the STAR metric is scalable across species, threats and geographies, disaggregating the global STAR scores down to national level may be prone to error due to spatial variations in species and threats presence. Thus, verification based on national level data is needed. Yet it may not always be possible to conduct verification due to lack of data in developing countries. Here, we used simple calibration and verification strategies to show how to overcome such setbacks and optimize application of the metric at national scale for Ethiopia. We revised the species and threats lists included in the global level estimated STAR, (re)calculated STAR scores and ranked the threats. Then, we compared consistency of this threat ranking with threat ranking based on national biodiversity experts’ opinions. Our total estimated STAR-T and STAR-R scores for Ethiopia were 12504.65 and 5360.53, respectively. Crop and livestock productions appeared to be the most impactful threats to the species. We found strong correlation in threat ranks between the STAR score and experts’ opinion. We conclude that simple verification processes can optimise the application of the STAR metric at national level to support conservation actions and achieve science-based objectives.
Expression and clinical significance of CREB1 and CREB3 in gastric cancer and precancerous lesions
Authors: Liu Lixia , Li Xiaoxia , Kang Ruxue , Ye Qianru , Wang Hui , Yue Xin , Chai Jianyuan , Wang Chi
Published: September 2023

Background: To investigate the expression and clinical significance of cyclic adenosine monophosphate responsive CREB1 and CREB3 in gastric cancer and precancerous lesions.
Methods and Results: All data was collected in June 2021 to April 2022 from the second affiliated hospital of Baotou medical college with archive wax block of 40 cases of chronic superficial gastritis. The expressions of CREB1 and CREB3 in different gastric tissues were detected by Western blot. Kaplan-meier Plotter was used to analyze the correlation between the expression of CREB1 and CREB3 and overall survival and progression-free survival of gastric cancer patients. The positions of CREB1 and CREB3 in the signaling pathway and their related upstream and downstream genes were analyzed using STRING database. (1) Immunohistochemistry staining results showed the positive expression rates of CREB1 and CREB3 in gastric cancer group significantly higher than those in chronic atrophic gastritis with intestinal metaplasia, but there was no significant difference between them and dysplasia group. Clinicopathological parameters analysis showed that the expression levels of both were correlated with depth of invasion, TNM stage, vascular invasion and lymph node metastasis. (2) Western blot results indicated that the protein expression of CREB1 and CREB3 increased successively in chronic superficial gastritis, chronic atrophic gastritis with intestinal metaplasia, and gastric cancer, and the difference was statistically significant.
Conclusion: CREB1 and CREB3 may be related to the occurrence, development and metastasis of gastric cancer, and the high expression of CREB1 and CREB3 may be related to the poor prognosis of gastric cancer patients.
Enhancing Intrusion Detection in Wireless Sensor Networks through Deep Hybrid Network Empowered by SC-Attention Mechanism
Authors: Gatate Veeranna , Agarkhed Jayashree
Published: September 2023

WSNs are often deployed in unattended or hostile environments, making them vulnerable to various types of attacks. Ensuring the security of WSNs is crucial, especially if the data being monitored is sensitive or critical. An intrusion detection system (IDS) can help detect unauthorized access or malicious activities within the network. In the field of network intrusion detection systems (NIDS), traditional approaches face limitations in effectively detecting evolving threats and unknown attack patterns. To overcome these challenges, this research proposes a novel approach called the Deep Hybrid Network with spatial and channel attention (DHN-SCA) that integrates deep learning techniques with attention mechanisms. The DHN combines convolutional neural networks (CNNs) with a Local Attention Module to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of intrusion detection. The Local Attention Module consists of two sub-modules: Spatial Attention and Channel Attention. Spatial Attention applies average pooling to the feature tensor, while Channel Attention incorporates global average pooling and global max pooling followed by fully connected layers. These sub-modules refine the feature tensor through element-wise multiplication operations with the original features. Experiments and evaluations are conducted on benchmark datasets to assess the performance of the DHN. Evaluation metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score are employed to compare the DHN's effectiveness with existing intrusion detection approaches.
Development of a tool for predicting HNF1B mutations in children with congenital anomalies of the kidneys and urinary tract – a retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Kolbuc Marcin , Kolek Mateusz , Motyka Rafal , Bienias Beata , Habbig Sandra , Burgmaier Kathrin , Prikhodina Larisa , Papizh Svetlana , Tasic Velibor , Okorn Christine , Szczepanska Maria , Kilis-Pstrusinska Katarzyna , Wasilewska Anna , Adamczyk Piotr , Tkaczyk Marcin , Panczyk-Tomaszewska Malgorzata , Miklaszewska Monika , Pawlaczyk Krzysztof , Bukowska-Olech Ewelina , Jamsheer Aleksander , Jankauskiene Augustina , König Jens , Cheong Hae Il , Ahn Yo Han , Kaspar Sophie , Sikora Przemyslaw , Beck Bodo , Zaniew Marcin
Published: September 2023

Background The diagnosis of HNF1B disease is a challenge. We aimed to developa tool for predicting HNF1B mutations in children with congenital abnormalities of the kidneys and urinary tract (CAKUT).
Methods The clinical and laboratory data from 234 children and young adults with known HNF1B mutation status were collected and analyzed retrospectively. All subjects were randomly divided into a training (70%) and
a validation set (30%). A random forest model was constructed to predict HNF1B mutations. The recursive feature elimination algorithm was used for feature selection into the model, and receiver operating characteristiccurve statistics were used to verify its predictive effect.
Results 213 patients were analyzed, including HNF1B‑positive (mut+, n=109) and HNF1B‑negative (mut−, n=104) subjects. The majority of patients had mild chronic kidney disease. Kidney phenotype was similar between groups, but bilateral kidney anomalies were more frequent in the mut+ group. Hypomagnesemia and hypermagnesuria were the most common abnormalities in mut+ patients, and were highly selective of HNF1B. Hypomagnesemia based on age‑appropriate norms had a better discriminatory value than the age‑independent cutoff of 0.7 mmol/l. Pancreatic anomalies were almost exclusively found in mut+ patients. No subjects had hypokalemia; the mean serum potassium level was lower in the HNF1Bcohort. The above‑mentioned, discriminative parameters were selected for the model, which showed a good performance (area under the curve: 0.85; sensitivity of 93.67%, specificity of 73.57%). A corresponding calculator was developed for use and validation.
ConclusionThis study developed a simple tool for predicting HNF1B mutations in children with CAKUT.
Dissecting coral recovery: Bleaching reduces reproductive output in Acropora millepora
Authors: Briggs Nico D , Page Cathie A , Giuliano Christine , Alessi Cinzia , Hoogenboom Mia , Bay Line K , Randall Carly J
Published: September 2023

Increasingly frequent and severe bleaching events driven by climate change are decreasing coral populations worldwide. Recovery of these populations relies on reproduction by the survivors of such events including local and upstream larval sources. Yet, corals that survive bleaching may be impaired by sublethal effects that suppress reproduction, reducing larval input to reefs, and consequently impeding recovery. We investigated the impact of the 2020 mass-bleaching event on Acropora millepora reproduction on inshore, turbid reefs in Woppaburra sea Country (the Keppel Islands), to improve our understanding of the effects of bleaching on coral populations. A. millepora experienced high bleaching incidence but low mortality across the island group during this event and thus constituted an ideal population to investigate potential sublethal effects on reproductive output. Six months after the heat wave, and just prior to spawning, we collected, decalcified, and dissected samples from 94 tagged A. millepora colonies with a known 2020 bleaching response, to investigate the relationships between stress severity and reproduction. Despite having regained their pigmentation, we detected a significant reduction in fecundity in colonies that had bleached severely. Considering the impact of the bleaching event on the coral population sampled (i.e. mortality, bleaching severity and colony size), coupled with reductions in fecundity, we estimated a total decrease in population-level reproductive output of 21%. These results suggest that reduced reproductive output may impact recovery of coral populations following bleaching and should be considered alongside traditional estimates from coral mortality.
Two Hidden Layer’s Markov Model for Studying Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: padi Tirupati Rao , Narendra Surnam
Published: September 2023

Diabetes is a metabolic disorder that can be regulated through proper physical activity and diet management. This paper is about developing a stochastic model by using Layered Hidden Markov Model (LHMM) for diabetes. In LHMM, we considered two hidden layers and one emission state layer. Here, we find out the probability of emission state sequence by the forward algorithm. Further, we derived probability mass function for one-state, two-state and three-state sequences for non-diabetes and diabetes emission states. We also derived the explicit relations for mean, variance and other Pearson’s coefficients of Skewness and Kurtosis of the formulated probability distribution. The model behaviour is studied in detail with real-time data on diabetes from secondary data sources. This study considered three variables, namely (i) physical activity, (ii) obesity category based on BMI, and (iii) having diabetes. It is assumed that diabetes is influenced by obesity, and obesity is influenced by physical activity. After a thorough analysis of data, it is observed that (i) from one day sequence, the state of non-diabetes is more likely, (ii) from the two-day sequence, the chances of the probability for two consecutive occurrences of the emission state of non-diabetes is 0.50; and (iii) from the three-day sequence, the chance of three consecutive occurrences of the emission state non-diabetes is around 0.38. From the transition and emission probability matrices, we found that those who are doing physical activity daily have less chance of obesity, and those who are not doing physical activity have a high chance of obesity, and later, they will be getting the risk of diabetes
Adapting cognitive remediation group therapy: A community-based, focus group study
Authors: Eaton Andrew D. , Hui Jenny , Muchenje Marvelous , Kon Taylor , Murzin Kate , Carusone Soo Chan , Novik Nuelle , Quigley Adria , Kokorelias Kristina , Ibáñez-Carrasco Francisco
Published: September 2023

Cognitive impairment is a significant health issue for people aging with HIV/AIDS. With pharmacological treatment lacking, psychosocial group therapies may best help people aging with HIV who experience cognitive challenges cope with their symptoms. The COVID-19 pandemic revealed how in-person group therapies need adaptation for hybrid or online delivery. Peer-led focus groups discussed adapting cognitive remediation group therapy (CRGT) as a hybrid or online intervention. CRGT combines mindfulness-based stress reduction and brain training activities. Purposive sampling was used to recruit people aging with HIV (40+) who self-identified cognitive concerns and resided in one of two Canadian provinces. Thematic content analysis was employed on transcripts by seven independent coders. Ten, two-hour focus groups were conducted between August and November 2022. Participant (n=45) demographics included age (M=53.22, SD=7.62), gender (45% women, 42% men, 13% trans/non-binary), sexual orientation (42% gay, 40% heterosexual, 18% other), ethnicity (45% White, 33% Black, 13% Indigenous, 9% mixed-race), and employment (33% employed, 67% retired/disability), and all on treatment and retained in care. Overall, participants responded favourably to CRGT’s modalities. Alongside support for its continued implementation in-person, participants requested online synchronous and online asynchronous formats. Preferred intervention facilitators were peers and mental health professionals. We also discuss how to adapt psychosocial HIV therapies for technology-mediated delivery, with consideration for behavioral HIV research.
Fermionization of a few-body Bose system immersed into a Bose-Einstein condensate
Authors: Keller Tim , Fogarty Thomás , Busch Thomas
Published: September 2023

We study the recently introduced self-pinning transition [Phys. Rev. Lett. 128, 053401 (2022)] in a quasi-one-dimensional two-component quantum gas in the case where the component immersed into the Bose-Einstein condensate has a finite intraspecies interaction strength. As a result of the matter-wave backaction, the fermionization in the limit of infinite intraspecies repulsion occurs via a first-order phase transition to the self-pinned state, which is in contrast to the asymptotic behavior in static trapping potentials. The system also exhibits an additional superfluid state for the immersed component if the interspecies interaction is able to overcome the intraspecies repulsion. We approximate the superfluid state in an analytical model and derive an expression for the phase transition line that coincides with well-known phase separation criteria in binary Bose systems. The full phase diagram of the system is mapped out numerically for the case of two and three atoms in the immersed component.
Allelopathic potential of aqueous extracts of passion fruit Passiflora mucronata fruit peels on lettuce
Authors: Lima Paula Aparecida Muniz de , Jacomino Gardênia Rosa de Lisboa , Silva Sônia Maria da , Alves Thammyres de Assis , Pereira Maria Luiza Zeferino , Almeida Taísa de Fátima Rodrigues de , Fontes Milene Miranda Praça , Alexandre Rodrigo Sobreira , Lopes José Carlos
Published: September 2023

Pesticide misuse has led to problems in agriculture, contamination of environment, and human health. However, research into alternative methods of controlling invasive plants is expanding. The allelopathic effect of secondary metabolites from plant parts suggests a potential and sustainable alternative to plant residues for use as bioherbicides. Given the above, the current study aimed to investigate the allelopathic potential of various concentrations of the aqueous extract of fruit peels of genotypes of Passiflora mucronata in seed germination and seedling growth of Lactuca sativa L. Fruit peels of genotypes of P. mucronata were used to obtain an aqueous extract, which was then filtered and diluted at the following concentrations: T1=100; T2=50; T3=25; T4=12.5 mg mL-1; T5= negative control (distilled water) and T6= positive control (glyphosate). Germination was carried out in Petri plates and was conditioned in a biochemical oxygen demand germination chamber at 25 ± 2 °C. Macroscopic evaluation was performed at the germination stage and root and aboveground growth of the seedlings, and the germination velocity index were also evaluated. Cytogenetic analysis was performed, and mitotic index was obtained. The design was entirely randomized, with five repetitions of 25 seeds each. Allelopathic substances found in the bark of P. mucronata fruits interfere with seed germination and vigor, as well as initial seedling growth. The germination of L. sativa seeds was 100% inhibited by extract concentrations of 50 % and 100 %. The cell cycle of L. sativa seeds is inhibited by allelopathic substances present in the bark of P. mucronata fruits. It is concluded that aqueous extracts of Passiflora mucronata have an allelopathic inhibitory effect on germination and initial growth of L. sativa
A cross-sectional study of echocardiographic characteristics of patients diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 delta strain
Authors: Varshney Amit , Rawat Ramakant
Published: September 2023

Background: The delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 has been associated with increased mortality and multi-organ failure, affecting various systems in the body. Cardiovascular manifestations including arrhythmias, heart failure, myocarditis, myocardial damage, and thromboembolism are commonly observed in patients infected with the delta variant.
Materials and methods: This study enrolled 106 individuals who tested positive for the delta strain of SARS-CoV-2 using real-time RT-PCR between May 25, 2020, and October 15, 2021. All patients underwent 2-D echocardiography, and based on the severity of their infection, were divided into two groups: serious and non-serious.
Results: Univariate correlation analysis showed significant positive correlations between right ventricular (RV) diameter and hs-TnI and D-dimer levels. Conversely, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was negatively correlated with hs-TnI, C-reactive protein (CRP), and D-dimer levels. Additionally, RV fractional area change (RV-FAC) showed a negative correlation with D- dimer and hs-TnI levels but not with CRP levels.
Discussion: RV dysfunction has been identified as an important predictor of mortality in various patient populations, including those infected with the delta variant of SARS-CoV-2. A significant proportion of severe delta variant cases require mechanical ventilation, which can have hemodynamic effects on the ventricular performance. Mechanical ventilation can increase pulmonary arterial pressure and worsen right heart dysfunction, especially when lung-protective ventilation strategies are not optimized.

Conclusions: Our study highlights that patients with severe delta variants, particularly those with cardiac injury, may exhibit biventricular systolic dysfunction. Echocardiographic parameters such as LVEF, RV diameter, and RV-FAC were found to be associated with laboratory markers of poor prognosis, including elevated hs-TnI, CRP, and D-dimer levels. 2-D echocardiography can be a valuable tool in identifying early signs of ventricular dysfunction, aiding in the management of this patient population.
Secondary analysis of REPRISE III trial: The Lotus valve's persistence after withdrawal
Authors: Kotit Susy
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Aortic stenosis (AS) is the leading heart valve disease in developed countries, often caused by calcific degeneration. In low-and-middle-income countries, it's primarily due to RHD. Prevalence of AS increases with age and up to 22.8% of those affected over the age of 75. While surgical aortic valve replacement is standard treatment for AS, many older individuals are not ideal candidates. Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) offers an alternative. The REPRISE III trial showed the Lotus valve outperformed the CoreValve/EvolutR TAVR valves in various metrics over 2 years. Despite its success and over 10,000 implantations, the Lotus valve was pulled from the market, highlighting the need to understand its long-term outcomes.
Study and results: In the REPRISE III trial, the long-term outcomes of TAVR using the Lotus valve were compared to the CoreValve/EvolutR over 5 years across 55 global centers. Of the participants, 581 (95.7%) used the Lotus valve and 285 (93.4%) used CoreValve/EvolutR. Event rates for all-cause mortality were similar between the groups, but the Lotus valve group had lower rates of disabling stroke and pacemaker implantation. The Lotus valve showed a higher aortic gradient but lower effective orifice area. Additionally, the Lotus valve had reduced mild PVL, valve...
Recognize The Fierce Competition in The Fast Fashion Industry
Authors:   Faculty of Economics and Business, Padjadjaran University, Jl. Dipati Ukur No.35, Lebakgede, Kecamatan Coblong, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132, Indonesia, Rizaldy Anpel , Supiansyah Supiansyah ,   Faculty of Economics and Business, Padjadjaran University, Jl. Dipati Ukur No.35, Lebakgede, Kecamatan Coblong, Kota Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132, Indonesia
Published: September 2023

Inditex, Fast Retailing Co. Ltd, Gap Inc, Hennes & Mauritz AB, and Urban Outfitters Inc are world-famous industries that make fashion brand that adopts the fast fashion industry system. This article will discuss market competition in the fast fashion industry using Porter’s five forces model. The analysis was carried out using descriptive qualitative methods on five samples of the fast fashion industry within a competitive market, E.g., Inditex (ZARA), Fast Retailing Co. Ltd (UNIQLO), Gap Inc (GAP), Hennes & Mauritz AB (H&M), and Urban Outfitters Inc (Urban Outfitters). That way, we will understand how difficult the competition is in the fast fashion industry environment and where able to use the analytical approach to measure competition analysis for other industries.
Performance Measurement of a Private Hospital during the Pandemic Covid-19
Authors: Umniyatun Yuyun , Aulia Kris Febyta , Rahayu Sri , Jacoeb Teuku Nebrisa Zagladin , Nurmansyah Mochammad Iqbal
Published: September 2023

This study aims to analyze the performance of private hospitals during the COVID-19 pandemic through the BSC approach. This research uses a quantitative descriptive approach based on a case study at a private hospital in East Jakarta. A hospital employee-patient survey provided the main data. 2019–2020 hospital reports supplied secondary data. The results showed that, from the customer perspective, there was a decrease in performance in customer acquisition and retention. From the internal business process perspective, there is a decrease in bed occupancy rate and turnover interval. From a financial perspective, there is a decline in profitability and cost recovery rate. The learning perspective is considered good in employee satisfaction, low employee turnover, and regular training, so that it can be concluded that employee retention is well implemented. Overall, hospitals need to review key performance indicators from a customer perspective and internal business processes to improve financial performance.
The role of metallic nickel nanoparticles to remove dispersed oil from produced water in Sudan oil field plant
Authors: Suliman M. S. , Yasin Sahl , Mohammed Abdelhafeez M. A.
Published: September 2023

In this study, nickel nanoparticles (NiNPs) were synthesized and utilized for removing dispersed oil from oilfield-produced water in Sudan. The synthesis process involved using two concentration of hydrazine as a reducing agent and sodium hydroxide as solvent. Physiochemical characterizations, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), confirmed the successful preparation of NiNPs. The TEM analysis revealed an average particle size ranging from 70 to 90 nm, with a change in morphology from star-shaped to monodispersed spherical particles. The crystal structure analysis confirmed the face-centered-cubic (FCC) configuration of the NiNPs, validating their structural properties. Significantly, the NiNPs demonstrated an impressive capability to remove oil form produced water, achieving a remarkable efficiency of 98% in eliminating dispersed oil from produced water. The oil removal process followed Freundlich isotherms, as evidenced by the high value of the linear regression coefficient. Additionally, the kinetics of the oil removal process conformed well to the pseudo-second-order model, indicating a rapid reaction. This study successfully demonstrated the efficient removal of dispersed oil from produced water using nickel nanoparticles, which interacted physically with the oil particles. These findings highlight the potential of NiNPs as an effective adsorbent for treating oilfield-produced water and mitigating environmental contamination.
Screening of Immune-related lncRNAs in Lung Adenocarcinoma and
Establishing a Survival Prognostic Risk Prediction Model
Authors: Jiang Wenxia , Zhu Xuyou , Bo Jiaqi , Ma Jun
Published: September 2023

Objective:

This study aimed to improve lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) prognosis prediction
based on a signature of immune-related long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs).

Methods:

LUAD samples from the TCGA database were divided into the immunity_H group and
the immunity_L group. Differentially expressed RNAs (DERs) between the two groups were identified.
Optimized immune-related lncRNAs combination was obtained using LASSO Cox regression.
A prognostic risk prediction (RS) model was built and further validated in the training and validation
datasets. A network among lncRNAs in the RS model, their co-expressed DERs, and the related
KEGG pathways were established. Critical lncRNAs were validated in LUAD tissue samples.

Results:

In total, 255 DERs were obtained, and 11 immune-related lncRNAs were significantly related
to prognosis. Six lncRNAs were demonstrated as an optimal combination for building the RS
model, including LINC00944, LINC00930, LINC00607, LINC00582, LINC00543, and
LINC00319. The KM curve and ROC curve revealed the RS model to be a reliable indicator for
LUAD prognosis. LINC00944 and LINC00582 showed a co-expression relationship with the
MS4A1. LINC00944, LINC00582, and MS4A1 were successfully validated in LUAD samples.

Conclusion:

We have established a promising LUAD patient survival prediction model based on
six immune-related lncRNAs. For LUAD patients, this prognostic model could guide personalized
treatment.
Mini Review on Clinical Aspects of Monkeypox
Authors: Saraswat Yash , Shah Kamal
Published: September 2023

Monkeypox is a disease caused by the monkeypox virus, which is a type of orthopox
virus that comes from the virus family Poxviridae. Its first case reported in animals and humans
was in 1958 and 1970, respectively. It is a viral zoonosis disease with two modes of transmission:
animal to human (via direct contact or eating the meat of an infected animal) and human to human
(via contact or contact with skin lesions, body fluids, and infected person’s contaminated objects).
The literature depicts that monkeypox is less contagious among individuals in contrast to smallpox;
the infection chain of monkeypox is nearly five to six patients approximately. It has two
clades, the West African and the Central African (the Congo basin). The Congo basin subgroup of
monkeypox is highly transmissible and severe. The symptoms of monkeypox include fever, lethargy,
headache, lymphadenopathy, myalgia, myodynia, fainting, shivers, backache, and rashes on
the face and extremities. The most common symptom of monkeypox is lymphatic hyperplasia or,
lymph adenopathy or swollen lymph nodes. It is proven to be very useful in the diagnosis of monkeypox.
The antiviral drugs that are used for its treatment are tecovirimat, brincidofovir and
cidofovir. Tecovirimat has fewer side effects and it shows better therapeutic action in comparison
to brincidofovir and cidofovir. For the prevention of monkeypox, the Center for Disease Control
and Prevention recommends the administration of the same vaccine used for smallpox
named INVAMUNE, which is currently in its third generation. Its first and second generations
have adverse side effects in patients having HIV or atopic dermatitis.
Drug Delivery System Approaches for Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment: A
Review
Authors: Garhwal Anushka , Kendya Priyadarshi , Soni Sakshi , Kori Shivam , Soni Vandana , Kashaw Sushil Kumar
Published: September 2023

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that has traditionally been
treated using a variety of pharmacological compounds. However, the effectiveness of these treatments
is often limited due to challenges associated with their administration. Oral and parenteral routes of
drug delivery are often restricted due to issues such as low bioavailability, rapid metabolism, poor
absorption, first-pass effect, and severe side effects. In recent years, nanocarrier-based delivery methods
have emerged as a promising alternative for overcoming these challenges. Nanocarriers, including
nanoparticles, dendrimers, micelles, nanoemulsions, and stimuli-sensitive carriers, possess unique
properties that enable efficient drug delivery and targeted therapy. Using nanocarriers makes it possible
to circumvent traditional administration routes' limitations. One of the key advantages of nanocarrier-
based delivery is the ability to overcome resistance or intolerance to traditional antirheumatic
therapies. Moreover, nanocarriers offer improved drug stability, controlled release kinetics, and enhanced
solubility, optimizing the therapeutic effect. They can also protect the encapsulated drug, prolonging
its circulation time and facilitating sustained release at the target site. This targeted delivery
approach ensures a higher concentration of the therapeutic agent at the site of inflammation, leading to
improved therapeutic outcomes. This article explores potential developments in nanotherapeutic regimens
for RA while providing a comprehensive summary of current approaches based on novel drug
delivery systems. In conclusion, nanocarrier-based drug delivery systems have emerged as a promising
solution for improving the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Further advancements in nanotechnology
hold promise for enhancing the efficacy and safety of RA therapies, offering new hope for patients
suffering from this debilitating disease.
CoCl2-mimicked Hypoxia Induces the Assembly of Stress Granules
in Trophoblast Cells Via eIF2α Phosphorylation-dependent and -
Independent Pathways
Authors: Ma Chunling , Lv Qiulan , Ma Liang , Xing Baoxiang , Li Yan , Li Zhiyuan
Published: September 2023

Introduction:

Hypoxia has been implicated in preeclampsia (PE) pathophysiology.
Stress granules (SGs) are present in the placenta of patients with PE.
However, the pathways that contribute to SG aggregation in PE remain poorly
understood.

Objective:

The objective of the current study is to investigate this issue.

Methods:

We first established an in vitro hypoxia model using human trophoblast cell
line HTR-8/SVneo treated with cobalt chloride (CoCl2). CCK8 assay and wound healing
assay were conducted to assess the viability and migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells after
exposure to CoCl2-mimicked hypoxia. SG component expression in HTR-8/SVneo cells
treated with CoCl2 alone, or in combination with indicated siRNAs was evaluated by
reverse transcription quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), western blot and immunofluorescence
staining.

Results:

Our results found CoCl2-mimicked hypoxia inhibits the proliferation and
migration of HTR-8/SVneo cells. The treatment of CoCl2 can induce SG assembly in
HTR-8/Svneo cells. Mechanistically, both heme-regulated inhibitors (HRI) mediated
eukaryotic translation initiation factor (eIF)2α phosphorylation pathway and 4E binding
protein 1 (4EBP1) pathway are involved in SG formation under the stress of CoCl2-
mimicked hypoxia.

Conclusion:

Hypoxia-induced SGs in trophoblast cells might contribute to the etiology of
PE.
Recent Advancements in CRISPR/Cas-based Genome Editing in Plants
Authors: Panchal Anurag , Das Tuhin , Kumar Singh Roshan , Prasad Manoj
Published: September 2023

The Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats (CRISPR)-
CRISPR-associated protein (Cas)-mediated genome editing is a recently developed
gene editing technology, which has transformed functional and applied genomics. This
technology is precise, cost-efficient, and rapid than other previously developed genome
editing tools such as Meganucleases (MNs), Zinc-Finger Nucleases (ZFNs) and
Transcription Activator-Like Effector Nucleases (TALENs). The CRISPR-Cas9 system
is widely exploited for developing plants with enhanced tolerance towards various
environmental stresses, resistance against pathogens, improved yield and nutritional
superiority. The method is robustly applied to alter both DNA and RNA at specific
target regions. The availability of well annotated genome sequence and an efficient
genetic transformation system may open numerous possibilities to gain desirable traits
in crop plants employing CRISPR-Cas-mediated genome editing technology. In this
chapter, we summarized the basics of CRISPR-Cas technology, various kinds of
CRISPR systems and their associated Cas proteins, application in generating abiotic
and biotic stress tolerant crops, and bottlenecks of CRISPR-Cas systems.