bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence, spatial pattern, and predictors of cardiovascular and chronic diseases: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Iyanda Ayodeji , Ade-Oni Adekunle , Omiyefa Seye , Krishnan Bargavi
Published: April 2023

Aim: To analyze the prevalence, spatial pattern, and predictors of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and chronic health conditions (CHCs) in Afghanistan.
Subject and Methods: This cross-sectional study of 3,956 adults aged 18-69, using population-based data from the World Health Organization's STEPwise Approach to Surveillance (STEPS) survey. The study determined the single and group prevalence of noncommunicable diseases based on sociodemographic and location characteristics. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between physical activity levels and non-communicable diseases.
Results: The prevalence rates for CVD, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and high cholesterol were 8.90%, 42.60%, 32.40%, 7.99%, and 11.87%, respectively. The prevalence of CVD increased with age and was notably higher among men, rural residents, and Zabul province. The prevalence of chronic conditions also increased with age, with higher rates among women and urban residents varying across different provinces. Spatial analysis showed a hotspot of CVD in the southern region, while other chronic diseases were clustered in the northern region. Multivariate logistic analysis showed that moderate occupational physical activity (PA) is linked to an increased risk of CVD and high cholesterol levels while being inversely associated with obesity. In contrast, moderate leisure-related PA is positively associated with obesity. Vigorous leisure-related PA, on the other hand, is linked to a decreased risk of CVD, obesity, and high cholesterol levels, while being positively associated with hypertension.
Conclusion: Findings provide valuable insights for healthcare providers and health coaches to design interventions to reduce the burden of CVD and CHCs for specific groups.
Understanding small NGOs' access to and use of geological data and expertise in delivering SDG 6 in eastern Africa
Authors: Wagaba Brenda , Sayan Caner , Haemmerli Hannah , Gill Joel , Parker Alison
Published: April 2023

Groundwater resources have the potential to meet the water demands of vulnerable communities in eastern Africa. To ensure such groundwater resources are managed sustainably, robust geological knowledge must be available and utilised by those managing groundwater. Small NGOs are one type of practitioner working on water-related projects with remote and vulnerable communities. This study aimed to understand the access to and use of geological data and expertise by small NGOs involved in water-related projects, through an online survey and key-informant interviews. The study revealed that small NGOS want to use geological data but bureaucracy makes it difficult to access free, existing government geological data sources, and that datasets are not always stored appropriately. Funding constraints hinder the ability of small NGOs to access quality geological data from other sources and to hire appropriate expertise. Donors' lack of understanding of the value of geological data affects the ability of small NGOs to budget for and include the time needed to collect or access geological data. There is a need to recognise these barriers to the usability and accessibility of geological data and expertise by key actors working on water challenges, such as small NGOs, and take steps to address them.
Norfloxacin removal efficiency by a carbon filtration column under the influence of nanoplastics: mechanistic analysis and prediction model
Authors: Ji Hongliang , Liu Zhenzhong , Xie Xianchuan , Jiang Wen , Wan Siwen , Wang Boyan , Xiang Xiaofang
Published: April 2023

Activated carbon is often used in the drinking water advanced treatment process, which has good antibiotic removal capacity. However, the presence of nanoplastics (NPs) as carriers may increase the risk of antibiotic leakage in the carbon filtration column. We designed experiments with the polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) concentration, norfloxacin (NOR) concentration, flow rate, and ionic strength as four orthogonal factors to investigate the effects of each factor on NOR removal by carbon filtration columns. The influence mechanism of PSNPs was inferred by combining with NOR transport curves and characterization analysis, and a prediction model of NOR removal efficiency was established through back-propagation (BP) network. The results showed that the increase of both PSNPs concentration and flow rate decreased the NOR removal efficiency. There was an optimal value of NOR concentration to maximize the NOR removal efficiency, while with increasing ionic strength, the NOR removal efficiency decreased, then increased, and finally decreased again in an inverted ‘N’ pattern. Furthermore, PSNPs can affect NOR removal efficiency via carrier function and aggregation on the activated carbon surface. On the other hand, the relative errors of the predicted and experimental values for two evaluated samples were 3.37 and 6.62%, respectively, indicating a good prediction effect.
Optimization of thermal–alkaline pretreatment for dewatering of excess sludge followed by thermal/persulfate oxidation for the elimination of extracellular ARGs in TAP-treated filtrate
Authors: Yao Pengcheng , You Aiju
Published: April 2023

This study evaluated the dewatering of excess sludge and the removal of extracellular antibiotic-resistant genes (eARGs) from the treated filtrate by thermal–alkaline pretreatment (TAP) and thermal/persulfate (PS). The optimization of TAP and thermal/PS was investigated during excess sludge dewatering and removal of eARGs via response surface methodology (RSM). The results demonstrated that TAP could effectively decrease the water content of excess sludge (41%) at optimum operating conditions (such as temperature: 88 °C, operation time: 90 min, pH: 11.2). However, the increase in eARGs abundance in TAP-treated filtrate is probably due to the dissolved effluent of the intracellular matter during dewatering. Therefore, TAP-treated filtrate was subjected to thermal/PS, and the removal of eARGs after TAP was explored. The desirability function was used to optimize two kinds of removal efficiencies of eARGs, simultaneously. The optimal pH, persulfate concentration, and reaction temperature were 10.2, 0.039 M, and 75.12 °C, respectively. 6.28 log·copies/mL of tetA and 6.57 log·copies/mL of sulI were removed under the above-mentioned conditions. The process provided efficient dewatering of excess sludge and elimination of eARGs from the filtrate.
Veno-occlusive Priapism, An Undesirable Outcome of Warfarin Therapy: A
Case Report
Authors: Roslly Mohd Zulkimi , Sulaiman Shameem , Hashim Anis Suhana
Published: April 2023

Background:

Priapism is one of the urological emergencies requiring prompt medical or surgical intervention. The clinical diagnosis is made with adjunct cavernosal blood gas analysis and colour doppler ultrasound to determine the underlying aetiology; ischaemic or non-ischaemic, and the majority are veno-occlusive in origin (ischaemic). The occurrence of warfarin-induced priapism complicated with penile necrosis is a rare occurrence, and many cases are related to protein C deficiency.

Case Presentation:

We report a case of warfarin therapy initiation following a thromboembolic event as a sequela of Covid-19 infection, subsequently developed veno-occlusive priapism complicated with penile gangrene despite being in an overwarfarinized state. The penis was non-salvageable following the gangrenous event, even with prior cavernosal blood aspiration. Thrombophilia panel screening, which includes Protein C activity, was done, where the protein C activity was low, measuring 23%. Unfortunately, he succumbed to death due to severe cardiorespiratory complications before this blood result was ready.

Discussion:

Prompt diagnosis and treatment of priapism is needed to prevent loss of penile function. Priapism as a sequela of anticoagulant therapy should be suspected in a patient with recent anticoagulant initiation. Thus, immediate treatment can be administered to correct the underlying coagulation disorder.

Conclusion:

The development of veno-occlusive priapism and penile gangrene in a patient on warfarin therapy raises a concern about protein C deficiency.
Imidazo[4,5-b]Pyridines: From Kinase Inhibitors to more Diversified
Biological Properties
Authors: Jarmoni Karim , Misbahi Khalid , Ferrières Vincent
Published: April 2023

Imidazo[4,5-b]pyridines are amongst the oldest known heteroaromatic derivatives.
Their structural similarity with purine basis has however aroused the curiosity of biologists
and resulted in the developments of innovative bioactive compounds. This review
thus firstly describes the main synthetic ways currently used to produce imidazo[
4,5-b]pyridine derivatives, and secondly gives examples of their potential, especially
focusing on protein inhibition abilities, thus opening the way to applications as anti-cancer
or antimicrobial agents.
Thiazole, Isatin and Phthalimide Derivatives Tested in vivo against
Cancer Models: A Literature Review of the Last Six Years
Authors: Pinto Aline Ferreira , Nunes Janine Siqueira , Severino Martins José Eduardo , Leal Amanda Calazans , Silva Carla Cauanny Vieira Costa , da Silva Anderson José Firmino Santos , da Cruz Olímpio Daiane Santiago , da Silva Elineide Tayse Noberto , Campos Thiers Araújo , Lima Leite Ana Cristina
Published: April 2023

Background:

Cancer is a disease characterized by the abnormal multiplication
of cells and is the second leading cause of death in the world. The search for new effective
and safe anticancer compounds is ongoing due to factors such as low selectivity, high toxicity,
and multidrug resistance. Thus, heterocyclic compounds derived from isatin, thiazole
and phthalimide that have achieved promising in vitro anticancer activity have been
tested in vivo and in clinical trials.

Objective:

This review focused on the compilation of promising data from thiazole, isatin,
and phthalimide derivatives, reported in the literature between 2015 and 2022, with in vivo
anticancer activity and clinical trials.

Methods:

A bibliographic search was carried out in the PUBMED, MEDLINE, ELSEVIER,
and CAPES PERIODIC databases, selecting relevant works for each pharmacophoric
group with in vivo antitumor activity in the last 6 years.

Results:

In our study, 68 articles that fit the scope were selected and critically analyzed.
These articles were organized considering the type of antitumor activity and their year of
publication. Some compounds reported here demonstrated potent antitumor activity
against several tumor types.

Conclusion:

This review allowed us to highlight works that reported promising structures
for the treatment of various cancer types and also demonstrated that the privileged structures
thiazole, isatin and phthalimide are important in the design of new syntheses and
molecular optimization of compounds with antitumor activity.
PAFAH1B3 Regulates Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma Cell
Proliferation and Metastasis by Affecting the EMT
Authors: Jiang Wenjie , Quan Ruida , Bhandari Adheesh , Hirachan Suzita , Chen Chengze , Lv Shihui , Zheng Chen
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

Thyroid carcinoma (TC) is currently the prevalent type of endocrine
malignancy worldwide, having an incidence of around 15.5 per 100,000 people.
However, the underlying mechanisms of TC tumorigenesis remain to be further elucidated.

Methods:

Performing the database analyses, Platelet-activating factor acetylhydrolase
1B3 (PAFAH1B3) was found to be dysregulated in several carcinomas and might trigger
tumor occurrence as well as the progression of TC. Clinicopathological information of patients
from our local validated cohort and The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) cohort also
confirmed this hypothesis

Results:

Our present research showed that elevated expression of PAFAH1B3 has a close
association with worse behavior in papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC). We utilized the
small interfering RNA to obtain the PAFAH1B3-transfected PTC cell lines, including BCPAP,
FTC-133, and TPC-1, and then further examined their biological function in vitro.
Furthermore, gene set enrichment analysis suggested that PAFAH1B3 is implicated with
epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT). Afterward, the western blotting assays aimed
at EMT-related proteins were performed.

Conclusion:

In short, our results revealed that silencing PAFAH1B3 could hinder the capabilities
of proliferation, migration, and invasion of PTC cells. Increasing expression of
PAFAH1B3 might be of quintessence with lymph node metastasis by triggering EMT in
PTC patients
One-Pot Multicomponent Reactions in Deep Eutectic Solvents
Authors: Ayvaz Aslıhan , Demirbaş Sinem Gorkem , Demirbaş Ahmet , Demirbaş Neslihan
Published: April 2023

The increasing environmental pollution and its detrimental impact on the ecosystem made scientists develop new chemical strategies involving eco-friendly chemicals, solvents, catalysts, atom-economical procedures, and alternative energy sources. Among these, deep eutectic solvents (DESs) are primarily low-melting mixtures of quaternary ammonium salt and hydrogen-bond acceptors. Low toxicity, easy preparation, low cost, biodegradability, low vapor pressure, and recyclability are the main advantages of DESs. Multicomponent reactions (MCRs) are efficient procedures for generating new libraries with high structural complexity. MCRs can give one product from at least three components in a single operation with high bond-forming efficiency, shortness, and structural diversity. Compared with conventional methodologies, the structural diversity, the convergent and atom economic character, the easy applicability of a one-pot operation, the accessibility to complex molecules, the minimized waste formation, and high selectivity are the main advantages of one-pot multicomponent reactions. The application of MCRs in eutectic solvents not only simplifies procedures but also displays more positive effects on the protection of the ecosystem.
Network Toxicology Prediction and Molecular Docking-based Strategy to Explore the Potential Toxicity Mechanism of Metformin Chlorination
Byproducts in Drinking Water
Authors: Zhang Gui-Hong , Liu Hongwei , Liu Mei-Hua , Liu Yang-Cheng , Wang Jia-Qi , Wang Yang , Wang Xin , Xiang Zheng , Liu Wei
Published: April 2023

Background:

Metformin (MET), a worldwide used drug for treating type 2 diabetes but
not metabolized by humans, has been found with the largest amount in the aquatic environment.
Two MET chlorination byproducts, including Y and C, were transformed into drinking water during
chlorination. However, the potential toxicity of the byproducts in hepatotoxicity and reproduction
toxicity remains unclear.

Methods:

The TOPKAT database predicted the toxicological properties of metformin disinfection
by-products. The targets of metformin disinfection by-products were mainly obtained from the
PharmMapper database, and then the targets of hepatotoxicity and reproductive toxicity were
screened from GeneCards. The overlapping targets of toxic component targets and the hepatotoxicity
or reproduction toxicity targets were regarded as the key targets. Then, the STRING database
analyzed the key target to construct a protein-protein interaction network (PPI) and GO, and
KEGG analysis was performed by the DAVID platform. Meanwhile, the PPI network and compound-
target network were constructed by Cytoscape 3.9.1. Finally, Discovery Studio 2019 software
was used for molecular docking verification of the two toxic compounds and the core genes.

Results:

Y and C exhibited hepatotoxicity, carcinogenicity, and mutagenicity evaluated by
TOPKAT. There were 22 potential targets relating to compound Y and hepatotoxicity and reproduction
toxicity and 14 potential targets relating to compound C and hepatotoxicity and reproduction
toxicity. PPI network analysis showed that SRC, MAPK14, F2, PTPN1, IL2, MMP3, HRAS,
and RARA might be the key targets; the KEGG analysis indicated that compounds Y and C caused
hepatotoxicity through Hepatitis B, Pathways in cancer, Chemical carcinogenesis-reactive oxygen
species, Epstein-Barr virus infection; compound Y and C caused reproduction toxicity through
GnRH signaling pathway, Endocrine resistance, Prostate cancer, Progesterone-mediated oocyte
maturation. Molecular docking results showed that 2 compounds could fit in the binding pocket of
the 7 hub genes.

Conclusion:

This study preliminarily revealed the potential toxicity and possible toxicity mechanism
of metformin disinfection by-products and provided a new idea for follow-up research.
Structural Maintenance of Chromosome Protein 4 Promotes the Progression
of Cardia Adenocarcinoma via Regulation of the Wnt/β-catenin Signaling
Pathway
Authors: Zhu Mengqi , Zhang Xinxin , Gao Kaiji , Zhang Lingmei , Feng Xiaojia , Wang Hui , Li Jing , Jia Jianguang
Published: April 2023

Background:

Structural maintenance of chromosome protein 4 (SMC4) is crucial for
chromosome assembly and separation, but its role and mechanism in cardia adenocarcinoma (CA)
are unknown.

Methods:

SMC4 expression levels were initially detected by protein profiling in 20 pairs of CA
tumor tissues and adjacent normal tissues. The level of SMC4 expression in CA cells was then
evaluated using a western blot analysis. Cell proliferation was evaluated by CCK-8 and clone formation
tests. Scratch and transwell tests were used to investigate cell migration as well as invasion,
while through the flow cytometry, we examined the cell apoptosis and progression of the cell
cycle. The regulatory effects of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the Wnt/β-
catenin pathway were investigated using western blot. A tumorigenesis experiment was used to investigate
the influence of SMC4 on tumor development in nude mice.

Results:

This study showed overexpression of SMC4 in CA tissues and cells. Knockdown of
SMC4 can significantly inhibit the proliferation, migration and invasion, stimulate cell apoptosis,
induce cell cycle arrest in the G0/G1 phase of CA cells, and inhibit tumor growth in vivo. In addition,
down-regulation of SMC4 resulted in decreased expression of Bcl-2, Cyclin D1, CDK4,
CDK6, β-catenin, phosphorylated GSK-3β, N-cadherin, and Vimentin, with an increased level of
proteins, i.e., Bax, cleaved-caspase3, and E-cadherin. When SMC4 was overexpressed, these
effects were reversed.

Conclusion:

SMC4 can facilitate the biological progression of CA, suggesting that SMC4 could be
a potential therapeutic target for the disease.
Recent Advances in Novel Recombinant RNAs for Studying Post-transcriptional
Gene Regulation in Drug Metabolism and Disposition
Authors: Tu Mei-Juan , Yu Ai-Ming
Published: April 2023

Drug-metabolizing enzymes and transporters are major determinants of the absorption, disposition, metabolism,
and excretion (ADME) of drugs, and changes in ADME gene expression or function may alter the pharmacokinetics/
pharmacodynamics (PK/PD) and further influence drug safety and therapeutic outcomes. ADME gene
functions are controlled by diverse factors, such as genetic polymorphism, transcriptional regulation, and coadministered
medications. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a superfamily of regulatory small noncoding RNAs that are
transcribed from the genome to regulate target gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. The roles of miRNAs
in controlling ADME gene expression have been demonstrated, and such miRNAs may consequently influence
cellular drug metabolism and disposition capacity. Several types of miRNA mimics and small interfering RNA
(siRNA) reagents have been developed and widely used for ADME research. In this review article, we first provide a
brief introduction to the mechanistic actions of miRNAs in post-transcriptional gene regulation of drug-metabolizing
enzymes, transporters, and transcription factors. After summarizing conventional small RNA production methods,
we highlight the latest advances in novel recombinant RNA technologies and applications of the resultant bioengineered
RNA (BioRNA) agents to ADME studies. BioRNAs produced in living cells are not only powerful tools for
general biological and biomedical research but also potential therapeutic agents amenable to clinical investigations.
Serotonin and Depression: Scrutiny of New Targets for Future Anti-
Depressant Drug Development
Authors: Pannu Arzoo , K. Goyal Ramesh
Published: April 2023

The “serotonin hypothesis of depression” is approximately fifty years old, and in spite
of vast literature, the exact role of serotonin in depression pathophysiology is still unclear, as
whether a lower serotonin level causes depression or depression causes a reduction in serotonin level
has become a tough challenge for researchers to understand the actual involvement of serotonin
in depression. Several pre-clinical and clinical studies have illustrated the multi-faceted signalling
action of serotonin in depression and vouch for the significant or unavoidable role of serotonin in
depression. In this review, the journey of the serotonin hypothesis of depression from the 1950s to
the present time has been analysed to understand the serotonin hypothesis of depression and investigate
the new molecular targets for the development of new future anti- depressants. The old and
new theories of possible cellular mechanisms found to be involved in the pathophysiology of major
depression or stress, such as polymorphism of serotonin transporters, enzyme modulating serotonergic
activity, reduction in the level of serotonin and involvement of different sub-types of receptors,
have been discussed in the respective review. Thus, in this review, the new signature targets to increase
serotonin levels have been identified, which would help the researcher in the drug development
of new faster-acting antidepressants.
microRNA-based Genetic Therapy in Leukemia: Properties, Delivery,
and Experimental Models
Authors: Zanette Dalila Luciola , Nóbrega Aoki Mateus , Prado Nayra Oliveira , Kusma Wosniaki Denise , Maria  Marin Anelis , Mathias Carolina , Soligo Sanchuki Heloisa Bruna
Published: April 2023

Leukemia is a type of cancer that affects white blood cells. In this disease, immature blood
cells undergo genetic mutations, leading to excessive replication and reduced cell death compared to
healthy cells. In cancer, there may be the activation of oncogenes and the deactivation of tumor suppressor
genes that control certain cellular functions. Despite the undeniable contribution to the patient's
recovery, conventional cancer treatments may have some not-so-beneficial effects. In this case,
gene therapy appears as an alternative to classical treatments. Gene therapy delivers genetic material
to cells to replace or modify dysfunctional genes, a safe method for neoplasms. One of the types of
nucleic acids explored in gene therapy is microRNA (miRNA), a group of endogenous, non-proteincoding,
small single-stranded RNA molecules involved in the regulation of gene expression, cell division,
differentiation, angiogenesis, migration, apoptosis, and carcinogenesis. This review aims to bring
together the most recent advances found in the literature on cancer gene therapy based on microRNAs
in the oncological context, focusing on leukemia.
Echinococcus granulosus as a Promising Therapeutic Agent against Triplenegative Breast Cancer
Authors: Sadr Soheil , Borji Hassan
Published: April 2023

Breast cancer is a major cause of cancer deaths in women, with approximately 1.2 million new cases per year. Current treatment options for breast cancer include surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy. However, the non-selective cytotoxicity of chemotherapeutic agents often leads to severe side effects, while drug resistance can worsen patient outcomes. Therefore, the development of more effective and less toxic anticancer drugs is a critical need. This study aimed to review the literature on Echinococcus granulosus antigens with anticancer potential against triple-negative breast cancer. Recent studies have suggested that certain parasite antigens may have potential anticancer effects. Specifically, research has shown that echinococcosis, a disease caused by the parasitic cestode Echinococcus granulosus, may have a protective effect against cancer. These findings offer new insights into the potential use of E. granulosus antigens in the development of novel cancer therapies and tumor cell vaccines. The findings of recent studies suggested that E. granulosus antigens may have the potential to be used in effective and less toxic cancer treatments. However, further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind the anticancer effects of these antigens and develop new cancer therapies and vaccines
Risk Factors for Unfavorable Glycemic Control Trajectory in Type-2
Diabetes Mellitus: A Community-based Longitudinal Study in Urbanslums
of Central India
Authors: Krishna N Subba , Sharma Shweta , Lahiri Anuja , Sai Madhu , Kesri Shashwat , Pakhare Abhijit , Kokane Arun M , Joshi Rajnish , Joshi Ankur
Published: April 2023

Background:

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic disease, which requires optimal glycemic control to prevent its ensuing vascular complications. Pathway to optimal glycemic control
in T2DM has a complex socio-behavioral construct, especially in vulnerable populations, like slum
dwellers, who have reduced health-care access and lower prioritization of health needs.

Objective:

The study aimed to map trajectories of glycemic control amongst individuals with
T2DM living in urban slums and identify key determinants associated with unfavourable
glycaemic trajectory.

Methods:

This study was a community-based longitudinal study conducted in an urban slum of
Bhopal in Central India. Adult patients diagnosed with T2DM and on treatment for more than one
year were included. All 326 eligible participants underwent a baseline interview, which captured
sociodemographic, personal behavior, medication adherence, morbidity profile, treatment modality, anthropometric and biochemical measurements (HbA1c). Another 6-month follow-up interview
was conducted to record anthropometric measurements, HbA1c and treatment modality. Four
mixed effect logistic regression models (through theory-driven variable selections) were created
with glycemic status as dependent variable and usage of insulin was considered as random effect.

Results:

A total of 231 (70.9%) individuals had unfavorable glycemic control trajectory (UGCT),
and only 95 (29.1%) had a favorable trajectory. Individuals with UGCT were more likely to be
women, with lower educational status, non-vegetarian food preference, consumed tobacco, had
poor drug adherence, and were on insulin. The most parsimonious model identified female gender
(2.44,1.33-4.37), tobacco use (3.80,1.92 to 7.54), and non-vegetarian food preference (2.29,1.27 to
4.13) to be associated with UGCT. Individuals with good medication adherence (0.35,0.13 to
0.95) and higher education status (0.37,0.16 to 0.86) were found to be protective in nature.

Conclusion:

Unfavorable glycemic control trajectory seems to be an inescapable consequence in
vulnerable settings. The identified predictors through this longitudinal study may offer a cue for
recognizing a rational response at societal level and adopting strategy formulation thereof.
Sclerosing Angiomatoid Nodular Transformation of the Spleen: Radiological
Findings and Radiological-pathological Correlation
Authors: Wu Qingyang , Wang Mingliang , Zhou Ming , Feimiao  , Ni Jianming , Yin Qihua
Published: April 2023

Introduction:

The objective of this study was to describe the CT and MRI features of sclerosing angiomatoid nodular transformation (SANT) of the spleen with pathologic correlation.

Materials and Methods:

Ten patients with surgically resected and pathologically confirmed SANTs were included. Clinical history was reviewed, and gross pathologic, histologic, and immunohistochemical findings were recorded. CT and MRI examinations were evaluated by two radiologists.

Results:

Patients included seven men and three women, with a mean age of 42.9±16.7 years. Pathologic features of SANTs involved multiple angiomatous
nodules in a radiating pattern with a central stellate fibrous scar and evidence of hemosiderin deposition. 9 cases showed a lobulated demarcated
margin, 8 cases a slight hypoattenuating, 1 isoattenuating, and 1 case with two lesions demonstrated a slight hyperattenuating margin, respectively.
Multiple scattered punctate calcifications were involved in 2 cases. 5 cases manifested hypointensity on in-phase imaging, 1 iso-intensity, and 4
iso-hypointensity on out-of-phase imaging. Progressive and centripetal enhancement were exhibited in 10 cases, spoke-wheel pattern in 3 cases,
and nodular enhancement in 4 cases, respectively. The central fibrous scar was identified in 8 cases during delayed enhancement.

Conclusion:

Characteristics of SANTs on CT/MRI reflected the underlying pathology. Hypointensity on DWI and T2WI, and change of signal on T1 chemical-shift imaging were found to be due to hemosiderin deposition and fibrous tissue. Typical features were a solitary, round, lobulated mass with a fibrous scar. Progressive and centripetal enhancement, spoke-wheel pattern, nodular enhancement, and delayed enhancement of central fibrous scar were observed.
Does Morphology of the Shoulder Joint Play a Role in the Etiology of Rotator
Cuff Tear?
Authors: Çağlar Ceyhun , Akçaalan Serhat , Akkaya Mustafa , Doğan Metin
Published: April 2023

Background:

The etiology of rotator cuff tears (RCTs) have been investigated for years and many underlying causes have been identified. Shoulder joint morphology is one of the extrinsic causes of RCTs.

Aim:

Morphometric measurements on MRI sections determined which parameters are an important indicator of RCT in patients with shoulder pain. The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors in the etiology of RCTs by evaluating the shoulder joint morphology with the help of previously defined radiological parameters.

Methods:

Between January 2019-December 2020, 408 patients (40-70 years old) who underwent shoulder MRI and met the criteria were included in the
study. There were 202 patients in the RCT group and 206 patients in the control group. Acromion type, acromial index (AI), critical shoulder angle
(CSA), acromiohumeral distance (AHD), lateral acromial angle (LAA), acromial angulation (AA), acromion-greater tuberosity impingement index
(ATI), and glenoid version angle (GVA) were measured from the MRI images of the patients.

Results:

AI (0.64 vs. 0.60, P = 0.003) CSA (35.3° vs. 32.4°, P = 0.004), ATI (0.91 vs. 0.83, P < 0.001), and AA (13.6° vs. 11.9°, P = 0.011) values were higher in the RCT group than in the control group and the difference was significant. AHD (AHD: 8.1 mm vs. 9.9 mm, P < 0.001), LAA (77.2° vs. 80.9°, P = 0.004) and GVA (-3.9° vs. -2.5°, P < 0.001) values were lower in the RCT group than in the control group, and again the difference was significant. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, the cutoff values were 0.623 for AI and 0.860 for ATI.

Conclusion:

Acromion type, AI, CSA, AHD, LAA, AA, ATI, and GVA are suitable radiological parameters to evaluate shoulder joint morphology. High AI, CSA, AA, ATI, GVA and low AHD and LAA are risk factors for RCT.
Review of Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Post-processing for the Brain
Tumor-related Epilepsy Study
Authors: George Reuben , Chow Li Sze , Lim Kheng Seang , Audrey Christine , Ramli Norlisah , Tan Li-Kuo
Published: April 2023

20% of brain tumor patients present with seizures at the onset of diagnosis, while a further 25-40% develop epileptic seizures as the tumor progresses. Tumor-related epilepsy (TRE) is a condition in which the tumor causes recurring, unprovoked seizures. The occurrence of TRE differs between patients, along with the effectiveness of treatment methods. Therefore, determining the tumor properties that correlate with epilepsy can help guide TRE treatment. This article reviews the MRI sequences and image post-processing algorithms in the study of TRE. It focuses on epilepsy caused by glioma tumors because it is the most common type of malignant brain tumor and it has a high prevalence of epilepsy. In correlational TRE studies, conventional MRI sequences and diffusion-weighted MRI (DWI) are used to extract variables related to the tumor radiological characteristics, called imaging factors. Image post-processing is used to correlate the imaging factors with the incidence of epilepsy. The earlier studies of TRE used univariate and multivariate analysis to study the correlations between specific variables and incidence of epilepsy. Later, studies used voxel-based morphometry and voxel lesion-symptom mapping. Radiomics has been recently used to post-process the images for the study of TRE. This article will discuss the limitation of the existing imaging modalities and post-processing algorithms. It ends with some suggestions and challenges for future TRE studies.
Prediction of Transformer Oil Temperature Based on an Improved PSO
Neural Network Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Zhiyan , Kong Weihan , Li Linze , Zhao Hongfei , Xin Chunwen
Published: April 2023

In addressing the issue of power transformer oil temperature prediction, traditional back
propagation (BP) neural network algorithms have been found to suffer from local optimization and
slow convergence. This study proposes an oil temperature prediction model based on an improved
particle swarm optimization (PSO) neural network algorithm, which introduces an asymmetric adjustment
learning factor and a mutation operator. The BP neural network, genetic algorithm (GA)
optimization neural network, and the improved PSO neural network are compared by considering
various factors, such as ambient temperature, load changes, and the number of cooler groups under
different working conditions. Results show that the proposed algorithm improves the actual change
trend of oil surface temperature and makes the transformer operation more stable to a certain extent.

Background:

The mathematical model for predicting transformer oil temperature is clear, but the
parameters in the model are uncertain and vary with time. When subjected to different operating
conditions, such as ambient temperature, load changes, and the number of cooler groups acting independently
or in combination, the prediction results of the oil temperature model vary with different
system parameters.

Objective:

This paper aims to enhance the accuracy of transformer temperature prediction. In order
to optimize the oil temperature prediction model, asymmetric adjustment learning factors and mutant
operators are added to meet diverse system parameter requirements.

Methods:

The paper utilizes an oil temperature prediction model based on an improved PSO neural
network algorithm, which introduces an asymmetric adjustment learning factor and a mutation operator
to address the limitations of the standard PSO algorithm.

Results:

This paper has employed a fusion algorithm of the genetic algorithm of the BP neural
network and the PSO algorithm, and conducted simulation and experimental analysis. The simulation
and experimental results demonstrate the accuracy and effectiveness of the fusion algorithm.

Conclusion:

This study demonstrates enhanced prediction accuracy of transformer oil surface temperature
using the improved particle swarm optimization neural network algorithm. This algorithm
has less prediction error under different working conditions compared to other algorithms. By increasing
population diversity and combining inertia weights, the algorithm not only greatly improves
its search performance but also avoids local optimization.
TÜRKİYE VE ALMANYA'DAKİ İLKOKUL ÖĞRETİM PROGRAMLARININ TEKNOLOJİ BAĞLAMINDA KARŞILAŞTIRILMASI
Authors: Aydın Çolak Elif , Şeren Nurbanu , Tut Edip , Kıroğlu Kasım
Published: April 2023

Özet: Bu araştırmanın amacı, Almanya ve Türkiye’deki öğretim programlarında yer alan özel amaçlar, kazanımlar, içerik, öğretme-öğrenme süreci ve ölçme-değerlendirme ögelerini teknoloji bağlamında karşılaştırmaktır. Araştırmanın deseni temel nitel araştırma olarak belirlenmiştir. Araştırmada, temel nitel araştırma deseninde kullanılan veri toplama yöntemlerinden biri olan doküman incelemesi kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın veri kaynağını Almanya’da kullanılan Hayat Bilgisi Öğretim Programı (LehrplanPLUS Grundschule, 2017) ile Türkiye’de kullanılan Fen Bilimleri Öğretim Programı ve Sosyal Bilgiler Öğretim Programı oluşturmuştur. Öğretim programlarına ilişkin dokümanlar her iki ülkenin Eğitim Bakanlıklarının resmî internet sayfalarından elde edilmiştir. Elde edilen veriler özel amaçlar, kazanımlar, içerik, öğretme-öğrenme süreci ve ölçme-değerlendirme temaları kapsamında betimsel analiz yöntemi ile analiz edilmiştir. Bu araştırmanın her aşamasında, karşılaştırmalı eğitim alanında uzman bir kişinin görüşleri alınmıştır. Araştırmanın sonuçlarına bakıldığında iki ülkenin, teknolojiye ilişkin benzer amaçlara sahip olmasına rağmen uygulama süreçlerinin farklılıklar gösterdiği görülmüştür. Ayrıca teknolojiye ilişkin öğrenme alanlarındaki kazanım sayısı da benzerlik göstermesine rağmen içeriklerinin farklılaştığı görülmektedir. Bu doğrultuda Almanya’da Türkiye’ye oranla yoğunlukla uygulamalı bir eğitim anlayışının benimsendiği tespit edilmiş ve buradan yola çıkılarak birtakım öneriler geliştirilmiştir.
Anahtar Kelimeler: Karşılaştırmalı eğitim, Almanya, öğretim programları, teknoloji
Efecto del manejo forestal en las propiedades fisicoquímicas del suelo en Ixtlán de Juárez, Oaxaca, México
Authors: Rodríguez-Rivera Viviana , Zaragosa-López Karina , Clark-Tapia Ricardo , Ramírez Santiago Rosario
Published: April 2023

Entre los principales temas que aborda el manejo forestal están la degradación y la conservación de la calidad del suelo. El objetivo de este trabajo fue analizar aspectos físicos y químicos del suelo en áreas sujetas a manejo forestal en Ixtlán de Juárez, Oaxaca, con la finalidad de aportar recomendaciones al manejo forestal y la conservación del suelo. Se seleccionaron tres sitios de matarrasa en franja y tres sitios adyacentes de vegetación alterna como control, además de un sitio de recuperación natural sujeto en el pasado a agricultura. Cada sitio fue subdivido en tres altitudes (superior, media y baja) y en cada una de ellas se determinaron las propiedades físicas y químicas del suelo. A los resultados se le aplicaron análisis de varianza y multivariados (ACP- análisis de componentes principales, MDS- análisis de escalamiento multidimensional y mapa de calor). Se encontró un efecto significativo del tratamiento de matarrasa sobre algunas propiedades físicas (densidad, compactación y porosidad) y químicas (carbono, pH, conductividad, nitrógeno y magnesio) en comparación con vegetación alterna. El análisis multivariado de las propiedades fisicoquímicas agrupó y correlacionó con la altitud a los sitios de vegetación alterna y recuperación natural y los diferenció de los de matarrasa en franja. El estudio sugirió, además, una recuperación de la calidad del suelo en pocas décadas, dada la similitud entre los sitios de vegetación alterna y recuperación natural. Se recomienda no practicar tratamientos complementarios de escarificación del suelo, sino fomentar la retención del horizonte orgánico para incrementar las posibilidades de mantener las propiedades fisicoquímicas del suelo.
Characterization of boron-doped single-crystal diamond by electrophysical methods (review)
Authors: Zubkov V.I.  , Solomnikova A.V.  , Solomonov A.V.  , Koliadin A.V.  , Butler J.E.
Published: April 2023

A critical analysis of the existing methods of controlling the concentration of impurity and majority charge carriers in wide bandgap semiconductors and the issues of improvement of modern diagnostics of the main electrophysical properties of single-crystal diamond are considered based on the results of our studies and the works of other authors. It was found that independent assessment of impurity concentration and concentration of free charge carriers is of fundamental importance for semiconductor diamond due to very low (less than 1%) degree of ionization of the introduced impurity. The advantages and prospects of admittance spectroscopy as a diagnostic method for ultrawide bandgap semiconductors are shown and solutions aimed at the correct interpretation of the experimental data are proposed. The high ionization energy of boron impurity in diamond (370 meV) results in a strong frequency dispersion of the measured barrier capacitance. It is shown that under disturbance of quasi-static conditions in capacitance-voltage measurements, low frequencies and high temperatures should be used for correct assessment of the charge carrier concentration. The results of electrophysical studies are compared with traditional measurements of impurity concentration in diamond by optical methods. A decrease of hole activation energy from the boron impurity level from 325 to 100 meV was found upon increasing the boron concentration NA from 2·1016 to 4·1019 cm-3. The transition to the hopping mechanism of conductivity within the impurity (acceptor) band with thermal activation energy of 10-20 meV was registered for NA≥5·1018 cm-3 at temperatures of 120-150 K. Keywords: single-crystal diamond, boron impurity, charge carrier concentration, activation energy, admittance spectroscopy, capacitance-voltage measurements.
Efficacy of a Mobile Phone–Based Intervention on Health Behaviors and HIV/AIDS Treatment Management: Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tran Bach Xuan , Bui Thu Minh , Do Anh Linh , Boyer Laurent , Auquier Pascal , Nguyen Long Hoang , Nguyen Anh Hai Tran , Ngo Toan Van , Latkin Carl A , Zhang Melvyn W B , Ho Cyrus S H , Ho Roger C M
Published: April 2023

Background

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is considered the most important intervention for HIV-positive patients; thus, encouraging the use of and adherence to ART are vital to HIV treatment outcomes. Advances in web and mobile technologies hold potential in supporting HIV treatment management.

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a theory-based mobile health (mHealth) intervention on health behaviors and HIV treatment adherence among patients with HIV/AIDS in Vietnam.

Methods

We performed a randomized controlled trial on 425 HIV patients in two of the largest HIV clinics in Hanoi, Vietnam. Both the intervention group (238 patients) and the control group (187 patients) received regular consultations with doctors and then participated in 1-month and 3-month follow-up visits. Patients in the intervention group received a theory-driven smartphone app to facilitate medication adherence and self-efficacy in HIV patients. Measurements were developed based on the Health Belief Model, which included the visual analog scale of ART Adherence, HIV Treatment Adherence Self-Efficacy Scale, and HIV Symptom Management Self-Efficacy Scale. We also included the 9-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) to assess patients’ mental health throughout treatment.

Results

In the intervention group, the adherence score increased significantly (β=1.07, 95% CI .24-1.90) after 1 month, whereas the HIV adherence self-efficacy was significantly higher after 3 months (β=2.17, 95% CI 2.07-2.27) compared to the control group. There was a positive but low level of change in risk behaviors such as drinking, smoking, and drug use. Factors related to positive change in adherence were being employed and having stable mental well-being (lower PHQ-9 scores). Factors associated with self-efficacy in treatment adherence and symptom management were gender, occupation, younger age, and having no other underlying conditions. A longer duration of ART increased treatment adherence but decreased self-efficacy in symptom management.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated that the mHealth app could improve the overall ART adherence self-efficacy of patients. Further studies with larger sample sizes and longer follow-up periods are needed to support our findings.

Trial Registration

Thai Clinical Trials Registry TCTR20220928003; https://www.thaiclinicaltrials.org/show/TCTR20220928003
Effects of rice husk charcoal on the resistance of Jali (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) to drought stress during generative phase
Authors: Ipaulle Qaanitatul Hakim , Indradewa Didik , Irwan Siti Nurul Rofiqo
Published: April 2023

The production of jali (Coix lacryma-jobi L.) under stress can be increased by the application of a soil enhancer, called rice husk charcoal.  This study aimed to determine the effect of rice husk charcoal on the yield of jali plants under drought stress and to determine the minimum soil water content from the interval time of watering to ensure that plants can still produce grains. The treatment (interval time watering and weight of rice husk charcoal) was arranged in a split-plot design. The main plot was the interval time of watering, consisting of 3 levels: every two days, every four days, and every six days. The weight of rice husk charcoal as sub-plots consisted of 3 levels: 0 t ha⁻¹, 10 t ha⁻¹, and 20 t ha⁻¹. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and further tested using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at a significance level of 5%. The results showed that rice husk charcoal could not increase the yield of jali plant under drought stress. Jali plants could still produce grains at a watering interval time of every six days with a minimum soil moisture content of 11.85%, or equivalent to 35.54% of field capacity.
Combination Diuretic Therapy to Counter Renal Sodium Avidity in Acute Heart Failure
Authors: Kazory Amir
Published: April 2023

In contrast to significant advances in the management of patients with chronic heart failure over the past few years, there has been little change in how patients with acute heart failure are treated. Symptoms and signs of fluid overload are the primary reason for hospitalization of patients who experience acute decompensation of heart failure. Intravenous loop diuretics remain the mainstay of therapy in this patient population, with a significant subset of them showing suboptimal response to these agents leading to incomplete decongestion at the time of discharge. Combination diuretic therapy, that is, using loop diuretics along with an add-on agent, is a widely applied strategy to counter renal sodium avidity through sequential blockade of sodium absorption within renal tubules. The choice of the second diuretic is affected by several factors, including the site of action, the anticipated secondary effects, and the available evidence on their efficacy and safety. While the current guidelines recommend combination diuretic therapy as a viable option to overcome suboptimal response to loop diuretics, it is also acknowledged that this strategy is not supported by strong evidence and remains an area of uncertainty. The recent publication of landmark studies has regenerated the interest in sequential nephron blockade. In this article, we provide an overview of the results of the key studies on combination diuretic therapy in the setting of acute heart failure and discuss their findings primarily with regard to the effect on renal sodium avidity and cardiorenal outcomes.
A Study of Human Race in Toni Morrison’s Beloved
Authors: Madhavi Bolla , Rao Dr. Konda Nageshwara
Published: April 2023

Toni Morrison's novel Beloved is a powerful exploration of the complexities of humanity, particularly the impact of slavery on the lives of African Americans. Through her vivid portrayal of the characters and their experiences, Morrison examines the various ways in which humans are capable of both cruelty and compassion. Beloved's presence forces Sethe to confront the past she has tried so hard to forget, and the novel follows her journey towards healing and redemption. Throughout the novel, Morrison portrays the ways in which slavery dehumanized and degraded its victims, robbing them of their sense of self and agency. At the heart of Beloved is Morrison's exploration of the complexities of love, particularly the love between a mother and her child. Sethe's love for her children is both a source of strength and a burden, as she struggles to protect them from the horrors of slavery while also dealing with the trauma of her own experiences.