bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High Prevalence and Risk Factors of Significant Hepatic Fibrosis in Omani Hepatitis B Inactive Carriers: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Al Shuaili Halima H. , Al Mashikhi Bushra Awadh , Sinani Ahmed Al , Al-Busafi Said A.
Published: February 2024

Background: Despite their generally favorable prognosis, hepatic fibrosis remains a possible complication for hepatitis B virus (HBV) inactive carriers. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of significant fibrosis and associated risk factors among Omani HBV inactive carriers. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted of 200 Omani HBV inactive carriers visiting a tertiary hospital in Muscat, Oman, between January 2017 and December 2018. Significant fibrosis (stage F2 or higher) was identified using two-dimensional shear-wave elastography. Baseline clinical, laboratory, and radiological data were analyzed to determine associations. Results: Of the total sample, 106 patients (53%) were male, and the mean age was 44.6 ± 9.3 years. The prevalence of significant fibrosis was 20% (n = 40). Male gender (p = 0.007), age ≥60 years (p = 0.024), and fatty changes in liver ultrasound (p = 0.044) were found to be independent factors for significant fibrosis. Conclusion: the prevalence of significant fibrosis was relatively high among a sample of Omani HBV inactive carriers, with several sociodemographic and clinical risk factors identified. Periodic assessment of liver function is needed for patients with these risk factors; moreover, routine biochemical parameters could be useful predictors of disease prognosis. Further research is recommended to substantiate these findings.
  Evaluating Hypericin as a Therapeutic Agent Against Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Ferrari Ivan Vito
Published: February 2024

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a bacterium that causes the sexually transmitted infection gonorrhea. This study employed molecular docking simulations to investigate potential interactions between natural molecules and the Fe(3+) ions import ATP-binding protein fbpC in Neisseria gonorrhoeae FA 1090. Among the screened molecules, Hypericin exhibited a remarkable binding energy of approximately -13.2 kcal/mol, indicating a robust and favorable binding affinity with the target protein. This promising outcome suggests that Hypericin could serve as a potential candidate for further exploration as a therapeutic agent against Neisseria gonorrhoeae infections. However, it is imperative to emphasize that these in silico findings necessitate experimental validation through in vitro and in vivo studies to ascertain the actual efficacy and safety of Hypericin as a treatment option.
Chronic pelvic pain syndrome in gynecological practice: therapeutic and diagnostic characteristics
Authors:   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Ignatko I.V. , Kovalenko M.V. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Klindukhov I.A. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Samusevich A.N. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Sigaleva T.V. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Tivtikyan A.S. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Afanasyevskaya E.V. ,   Lomonosov Moscow State University, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Istra Regional Clinical Hospital, Moscow, Russian Federation, Sovaev E.N. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Suslova A.V. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2024

Chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) is a common multifactorial disease encountered in the practice of not only obstetriciangynecologist, but also urologist, neurologist, and other specialists. In addition to organic pathology, psychological factors play a significant role in the development of this disease. According to the World Health Organization, CPPS affects up to 24% of women worldwide. Therefore, a comprehensive health history taking, consistent diagnostic measures, compliance with clear algorithms, proper selection of pharmacotherapy in conjunction with a multidisciplinary approach allow timely assistance to women with this syndrome. This article provides a detailed description of the possible causes and mechanisms of CPPS development and presents the author’s own algorithm for the treatment of patients with CPPS. Key words: chronic pelvic pain syndrome, multidisciplinary approach, pudendal neuralgia, endometriosis
Epigenome and inflammatory bowel disease
Authors:   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Khavkin A.I. , Shumilov P.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Aksenov N.A. ,   Elinav Lab, Weizmann Institute of Science, Rehovot, Israel, Schreiner E.V. ,   Institute of Chemical Biology and Fundamental Medicine, Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russian Federation, Sitkin S.I. ,   Almazov National Medical Research Centre, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation,   I.I.Mechnikov North-Western State Medical University, Saint Petersburg, Russian Federation
Published: February 2024

In the context of the paradigm of systemogenesis, for a more complete and comprehensive understanding of organism functioning at different stages of life, it is necessary to consider the role of the epigenome, which participates in the development of phenotype by regulating gene activity. In addition to ensuring physiological processes, epigenetic factors may be a trigger in the onset and severity of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). There are three critical periods during which environmental factors can most effectively influence the debut and pathogenesis of IBD: the prenatal period, the early postnatal period (gut microbiota formation), and immediately prior to disease onset. Among epigenetic factors that play an active role in IBD, it is essential to highlight nutritional factors (methionine, betaine, folic acid, polyphenols, curcumin, vitamin D3, etc.), microbiotic factors (bacterial fragments and metabolites) and medications (molecular inhibitors of epigenetic agents). Moreover, analyzing the activity of epigenetic mechanisms allows us to assess prognosis and therapeutic response in the treatment of IBD. Analysis of the role of the epigenome in IBD enabled the authors to formulate the following scientific hypothesis: maintaining the balance between short-chain fatty acids (butyrate) and inositol-1,4,5-triphosphate, i.e., between inhibitors and activators of histone deacetylase (HDAC3), may be a determinant of homeostasis and intestinal repair in chronic inflammation. This balance can be relatively easy to achieve by dietary adjustments, particularly by changing the ratio between dietary sources of butyric and phytic acids. Key words: epigenome, inflammatory bowel disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, microRNA, DNA methylation, histone deacetylases, Mediterranean diet, microbiome
Role of certain nutrients in nervous system development and possible modulatory effects of complementary feeding
Authors:   Nestlé Russia LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation, Dogotar O.S. , Ukraintsev S.E. ,   Peoples' Friendship University of Russia (RUDN), Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2024

This article describes the impact of certain nutrients on the development of the child’s nervous system and the formation of cognitive abilities. It discusses the role of iron, zinc, iodine, vitamins B1, B12, and A, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, gut microbiota-brain axis functioning in cognitive development, as well as the long-term outcomes of neuro-nutrient deficiency. Since ensuring optimal nutrition at important stages of child development can reduce the risks of deficiency states and prevent nervous system disorders, special attention is paid to complementary feeding, which can play a modulating role in the formation of child health. Key words: iron, porridge, gut microbiota, cognitive development, neuro-nutrients, complementary feeding, central nervous system
Sağlık Sektöründe Çalışan Adanmışlığı: Küresel Şirketlerin Sürdürülebilirlik Raporlarına Dayalı Bir Analiz
Authors: Kişi Nermin
Published: February 2024

Sağlık sektöründe sürdürülebilirlik, kaynakların etkin ve adil bir şekilde yönetilmesi, hizmet kalitesinin korunması, çevresel etkilerin minimize edilmesi ve toplumsal refahın artırılması gibi faktörlerle bütünleşerek sektörün uzun vadeli başarısı açısından stratejik bir öneme sahiptir. Bu çerçevede, sağlık sektörü çalışanlarının adanmışlığı, sürdürülebilirlik hedeflerine ulaşma konusunda belirleyici bir faktör olarak öne çıkmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı, küresel sağlık şirketlerinin sürdürülebilirlik hedeflerine ulaşmak için çalışan adanmışlığını nasıl teşvik ettiklerini sistematik bir biçimde belirlemektir. Bu amaç doğrultusunda, 2023 Fortune Global 500 listesinde yer alan sağlık şirketlerinin sürdürülebilirlik raporları nitel içerik analizi yöntemiyle incelenmiştir. Bulgular, şirketlerin sürdürülebilirlik hedeflerine ulaşmak için iletişim ve katılım, performans değerlendirme ve ödüllendirme, liderlik geliştirme, çalışan sağlığı ve refah, çeşitlilik, eşitlik ve kapsayıcılık, sosyal sorumluluk ve gönüllülük temel kategorilerinde çalışan adanmışlığı stratejileri ve uygulamaları geliştirdiklerini ortaya koymaktadır.
Alkaline–Salicic Kurung Complex of the Ket-Kap–Yuna Igneous Province (Aldan Shield, Russia): Petrogenesis and Geodynamic Conditions of Formation
Authors: Polin V.F. , Ostapenko D.S.
Published: February 2024

—Integrated geological data, petrogeochemical characteristics of magmatites of the Kurung complex (the Ket-Kap–Yuna igneous province of the Aldan Shield), and previously published isotopic data along with the results of geochronology and geochemistry research provide evidence for this complex evolving in the Late Cretaceous in a setting of riftogenesis (final phase) of continental margins. Similar to the Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous polyformational volcano-plutonism of the Aldan Shield, the Late Cretaceous alkaline magmatism in the Ket-Kap–Yuna province is associated with the tectonomagmatic activation which manifested itself mainly as continental margin rifting associated with deep reorganization of the southwestern, southern and southeastern framing of the Siberian craton triggered by gravitational sliding of the lithospheric plates. Results of the petrogeochemical analysis of the studied magmatites revealed that the heterogeneous rock groups identified within this rock complex are not related to each other by fractional or other type of differentiation, thus suggesting their possible derivation as a result of fluid syntexis-type interaction between mantle-derived alkali–basite melt and felsic crustal melts. Alkali–basite parent melts are shown to have formed during partial melting of variably enriched mantle which is widely spread beneath the Aldan Shield and is varied in composition (from BSE enriched to nearly EM-I). Origination of such deep-seated melts (magma sources) was associated with the rifting processes (strike-slip tectonics) triggered by the setting of gravitational sliding of lithospheric plates. The formation of alkaline–salic magmas of the Kurung complex is associated with large-scale selective assimilation of crustal material by high-temperature fluidized mantle magmas during their ascent to the surface, possibly as a result of fluid syntexis of alkaline–basite mantle magmas and crustal smeltings formed under their influence.
Early Proterozoic Ilikta Formation: a Record of the Akitkan Orogen Evolution (Southern Siberian Craton)
Authors: Efremova U.S. , Donskaya T.V. , Gladkochub D.P. , Mazukabzov A.M. , Ivanov A.V. , Bryansky N.V.
Published: February 2024

—New petrographic, geochemical, and geochronological (LA-ICP-MS) data have been obtained for the Early Proterozoic upper Ilikta Formation of the Sarma Group within the Baikal uplift, a basement inlier of the Siberian craton. The Ilikta Formation consists of polymictic and graywacke sandstones and shales of graywacke siltstone and silty-pelitic mudstone varieties, identified from major-element chemistry and petrography. The mineralogy and chemistry of the samples indicate their origin from a felsic source. The Ilikta Formation rocks eluded the Early Proterozoic regional metamorphism but underwent secondary alteration to different grades associated with early Paleozoic collisional events. The Ilikta Formation was deposited during the 1.91–1.95 Ga interval, as constrained by the ages of regional metamorphism (1.95–1.98 Ga) and granitic intrusion (1.86–1.91 Ga). These estimates are consistent with dating of detrital zircons from the Ilikta Formation sandstone which showed the youngest ages of 1955–1993 Ma. The detrital material for the Ilikta Formation deposition was apparently derived from the igneous and metamorphic rocks of the Early Proterozoic Akitkan orogen, and some amount of material additionally came from the adjacent Aldan superterrane located in the east. The reconstructed geodynamic environment of sedimentation, together with the petrography and chemistry of rocks, allow interpreting the Ilikta Formation of the Sarma Group as molasse accumulated in extension basins after the formation of the Akitkan orogen.
Producción y distribución de suplemento proteico a base de tarwi o (chocho) y harina de grillo
Authors:   , Salazar Lima Elvis Julio , Palomino Gutierrez Sara , Blaz Francisco Norfila
Published: February 2024

El plan de negocio conlleva como propósito, incorporar los mejores componentes como: el Tarwi o chocho (Lupinus mutabilis) y harina de grillo dentro de un suplemento proteico dentro del mercado peruano. En síntesis, el proceso para la elaboración del suplemento se realizará el deshidratado y molido del grano hasta obtener una harina fina. Se continuará con la mezcla, envasado, sellado, etiquetado y almacenado ubicado en La Molina, Miraflores, Pueblo Libre, Magdalena del Mar, Jesús María, San Isidro, San Miguel, Santiago de Surco, Lince, San Borja, Surquillo y Barranco, también considerado como Lima moderna, contando con controles de calidad, tiempo de producción de los suplementos para su distribución en la localidad y así ponerle nombrarlo tarwi, como un producto aceptable en el mercado peruano. En este sentido el proyecto tiene la finalidad de brindar bondades del chocho en una nueva presentación, como son en sobres de 250 gramos, permitiendo ingresar a un nuevo mercado brindando un producto de calidad y con alto valor nutricional. Además, el presente proyecto busca promover la inversión de otras empresas.
Plan de negocios para la comercialización de alimentos especializados para mascotas vía online en Lima metropolitana
Authors:   , Flores Villega David Joel , Montalvan Huaman Yasmily Esmeralda , Pacheco Leon Henry Daniel , Yndaruca Caman Zidane Esteban
Published: February 2024

Este proyecto de investigación presenta un análisis exhaustivo de la empresa Woof Pet. La empresa tiene como objetivo aprovechar la creciente tendencia del comercio electrónico y satisfacer la demanda de dueños de mascotas que buscan opciones nutricionales cómodas y de alta calidad para sus mascotas. Con una visión centrada en la salud y el bienestar de los animales, la empresa se esfuerza por ofrecer una experiencia de compra en online excepcional y productos que fomenten la vitalidad y felicidad de los perros. La aparición del comercio electrónico ha facilitado a los propietarios el acceso a una gran variedad de productos para mascotas. Sin embargo, con tantas opciones disponibles, puede resultar abrumador elegir el alimento adecuado que satisfaga las necesidades nutricionales de sus mascotas. Aquí es donde entra en juego nuestra empresa, ofreciendo una variedad de opciones de alimentos equilibrados para perros, diseñados para proporcionar una nutrición optima a perros de todas las edades, razas y tamaños. Creemos que la salud y a felicidad van de la mano. Por eso nos hemos centrado en comercializar productos que no solo sepan bien, sino que también fomenten el bienestar general. Nuestro equipo ha generado relaciones solidas con nuestro principal proveedor Invetsa, garantizando todos los nutrientes esenciales que los perros necesitan para prosperar. Desde proteínas de alta calidad hasta vitaminas y minerales esenciales, cada ingrediente se selecciona pensando en la salud de su mascota. Por eso se hará un análisis externo e interno, con herramientas que permitan determinar las ventajas y desventajas del sector. Finalmente, se realizará una estimación de presupuesto para cada área de la empresa para determinar si es rentable o no en el futuro.
Frecuencia de Cystoisospora suis en lechones lactantes con diarrea de cuatro granjas tecnificadas de Lima Norte y Sur
Authors:   , Meneses Del Pino Jhanira Polet
Published: February 2024

Dentro de las enfermedades que afectan a lechones en granjas tecnificadas, se encuentra la coccidiosis neonatal porcina, enfermedad enterica ocasionada por Cystoisospora suis que afecta a cerdos lactantes en las primeras tres semanas de vida. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar la frecuencia de Cystoisospora suis en lechones lactantes con diarrea de cuatro explotaciones porcinas localizadas en provincias de Lima Norte (Huaral, Huacho, Chancay) y Sur (distrito de Lurín). Para ello, se escogieron diez camadas por granja con signos de diarrea, obteniendo un total de 40 muestras fecales mediante hisopados rectales, que fueron transportadas a un laboratorio veterinario ubicado en el distrito de La Victoria, donde se procesaron mediante la técnica de flotación en azúcar y autoflorescencia. Cystoisospora suis no fue detectado en ninguna muestra durante el periodo de estudio, lo que sugiere que otros posibles entero patógenos podrían desempeñar un papel importante en la diarrea neonatal porcina además del manejo sanitario y distintos factores presentes en cada granja.
Transformación digital y bancarización de clientes en una Institución Financiera en el distrito de San Isidro (Lima - Perú), 2022
Authors:   , Cumpa Vila Luis Antonio
Published: February 2024

El estudio planteó determinar la relación entre Transformación digital y Bancarización de clientes en una institución financiera en el distrito de san isidro (Lima – Perú), 2022. Se ejecutó el enfoque cuantitativo y a su vez, el diseño transeccional correlacional. La encuesta como técnica y el cuestionario como herramienta se aplicaron a toda la población de la institución financiera en estudio conformada por 40 empleados (muestra censal). Los resultados obtenidos reflejan que existe una correlación positiva en las variables (Rho = 0,564) así como un valor de significancia (Sig. = 0.000) en ese sentido, se aceptó la hipótesis alterna del investigador. Por tal motivo, la hipótesis alterna fue verdadera, la cual afirmó que existe relación moderada en dichas variables.
Rugosidad superficial de dos resinas compuestas después de la inmersión en bebidas gaseosas: estudio in vitro
Authors:   , Alarcon Torres Sharon Gianella
Published: February 2024

Objetivo: Comparar la rugosidad superficial de dos compuestas después de la inmersión en bebidas gaseosas. Materiales y métodos: 160 discos de resina (6 x 2 mm) fueron divididos en 8 grupos (n=20 por grupo) según tipo de resina (Filtek™ Z350 XT® y Palfique LX5®) y tipo de inmersión en bebidas (agua destilada, Coca Cola®, Inca Kola® y Kola Escocesa®. Las inmersiones fueron realizadas bajo un ciclo estructurado: 4 inmersiones al día por 5 días, intermedios de guardado en agua destilada e incubado nocturno por 8 h a 37°C. Las mediciones con el rugosímetro se evaluaron en tres tiempos: basal, 7 y 14 días. La prueba Anova de tres vías se utilizó a un P<0,05. Resultado: La rugosidad mostró diferencias solo para los factores individuales de tiempo (P<0,000) y resina (P=0,000), y para la interacción tiempo*bebida (P=0,000) y resina*bebida (P=0,003). La rugosidad fue superior con Filtek Z350 XT inmersa con Inca Kola (0,85 ± 0,37) a los 14 días frente a otros tiempos (P=0,035) y con Palfique LX5 inmersa en Coca Cola a los 7 días (1,61 ± 0,42) y en Inca Kola a los 14 días (1,66 ± 0,56) frente al agua destilada (P<0,05). Conclusión: La rugosidad superficial fue afectada por el tipo de resina, el tipo de bebida gaseosa y el tiempo de inmersión. La rugosidad fue mayor con la resina de nanohíbrida Palfique LX5, la bebida Inca Kola y a los 14 días de inmersión.
Efecto del virus de la leucemia bovina en su presentación subclínica, sobre la producción de leche en un establo lechero, Cañete, Lima, Perú
Authors:   , Caycho Gamarra Adolfo Rodrigo
Published: February 2024

La leucosis bovina enzoótica es una enfermedad causada por el virus de la leucemia bovina (VLB). Durante muchos años este virus ha generado problemas en la ganadería lechera debido a que causa distintas alteraciones significativas en parámetros productivos. El presente estudio tuvo como objetivo determinar el efecto del virus de la leucemia bovina en su presentación subclínica sobre la producción de leche en un establo lechero en Cañete, Lima, Perú. Se evaluaron un total de 150 vacas previamente muestreadas por la prueba de ELISA indirecta para el virus de la leucemia bovina, de las cuales 131 fueron seronegativas y 19 seropositivas. Posteriormente se compararon los promedios ajustados de la producción de leche entre los grupos de vacas seronegativas y seropositivas mediante la prueba estadística "t de student" de independencia. Los resultados nos indicaron que no se encontraron diferencias estadísticamente significativas para la variable de producción de leche entre ambos grupos (p > 0.05). Sin embargo, se observó una tendencia a una mayor producción de leche de las vacas seropositivas. Estos hallazgos sugieren que la presencia del virus de la leucemia bovina en su presentación subclínica no tuvo un efecto significativo en la producción de leche para el establo lechero estudiado. Por lo tanto, es necesario realizar otras investigaciones en nuestro país con muestras más grandes y condiciones controladas para así obtener una imagen más completa de la relación entre la leucemia bovina y la producción láctea; así como la implementación de medidas de control adecuadas para minimizar las pérdidas económicas asociadas a la enfermedad.
Evaluación de la eficacia del albendazol y rafoxanide contra Fasciola hepatica en vacunos naturalmente infectados en un centro de engorde intensivo en Lurín - Lima
Authors:   , Fernandez Guzman Robby Williams
Published: February 2024

La ganadería en el Perú y el mundo es importante como fuente de empleo y seguridad alimentaria, esta se ve gravemente afectada por las parasitosis. La fasciolosis es una de las enfermedades parasitarias más difundidas en el mundo entero y es una zoonosis desatendida en Sudamérica. El uso indiscriminado de los fasciolicidas y la falta de rotación entre estos fármacos, han producido la aparición de resistencia antihelmíntica en varias regiones del planeta. El objetivo de esta investigación fue evaluar la eficacia de una combinación de rafoxanide y albendazol contra Fasciola hepatica en vacunos, en un centro de engorde intensivo, provenientes de la provincia de Chiclayo, región Lambayeque. Veintiún vacunos naturalmente infectados fueron tratados con una combinación de rafoxanide (10 mg/kg) y albendazol (9 mg/kg) (Ranide Forte®, TQC, Perú). La eficacia del fármaco se determinó con la prueba de reducción del conteo fecal de huevos establecida por la WAAVP, en los días 14 y 30 post tratamiento. Se empleó el método de FLUKEFINDER® para determinar la cantidad de huevos por gramo de heces (hpg). Adicionalmente se utilizó el método de bootstrapping en el programa R para generar los intervalos de confianza al 95%. La combinación de estas drogas obtuvo una eficacia al día 14 de 94% (90:98 IC 95%) y al día 30 del 100%, lo cual indica que son fármacos eficaces o muy eficaces contra este parásito. El resultado de esta investigación demuestra que el rafoxanide sumado al albendazol son una buena opción terapéutica contra la fasciolosis en vacunos provenientes del norte de Perú, contribuyendo a la búsqueda de nuevas alternativas farmacológicas debido al incremento de la resistencia antiparasitaria.
Actitudes hacia el amor en estudiantes de una Universidad privada de Lima con y sin evidencia de violencia de pareja
Authors:   , Pierola Calderon Ariana Isabella
Published: February 2024

La presente indagación tuvo como objetivo analizar comparativamente los tipos de amor en universitarios de una Institución Privada de Lima con y sin evidencia de violencia de pareja. La investigación fue descriptiva – comparativa, y de diseño no experimental y transversal. Asimismo, la muestra estuvo constituida por 477 estudiantes, siendo el 43.8% de sexo masculino y el 56.2% de sexo femenino. Se emplearon 2 pruebas: “Cuestionario de Violencia entre Novios (CUVINO)” y “Escala de Actitudes hacia el Amor (LAS)”. Los resultados evidenciaron que no existen diferencias significativas en las variables estudiadas dentro de la muestra de universitarios. Sin embargo, dentro de las dimensiones de la violencia existen 2 en las que si se presentan diferencias significativas: dimensión humillación y dimensión violencia sexual.
External aspects that stand out in the self-perceived employability of engineering students and recent graduates
Authors: Yepes Zuluaga Sara Maria
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study is to analyse the relationship between the self-perceived employability of engineering students and graduates and their employment situation. Methodology: A total of 505 individuals participated in this study, including recent graduates and senior students from five engineering programs at a public higher education institution in Colombia. This research adopted a quantitative methodology with a non-experimental cross-sectional design and a correlational scope. The data were analysed using inferential statistics. Findings: Based on the results, perceived employability considerably depends on four factors: the level of job performance, the number of promotions, work experience, and the education–job relationship. Originality: In the current labour context, employability is an important tool for graduates who are entering the labour market and must face a variety of challenges, such as the decline in work opportunities, the rapid development of technology, and the need for lifelong learning. According to the literature in the field, employability is significantly influenced by these kinds of external factors.
The nexus of work integrated learning and skills among engineering students in Nigerian Universities: A structural equation model approach
Authors: Adegbite Waliu Mulero , Hoole Crystal
Published: February 2024

Higher education providers have redefined their focus to include work-integrated learning (WIL) as an alternative way to prepare graduates for professional and future employment. Although WIL was designed to enhance graduates' work readiness, there is little evidence that the program supports the development of behavioural and employability competencies among participating students. Thus, this study aims to predict the effect of WIL through the partial least square path model on seven employability competencies. The sample consisted of 375 final-year engineering students from two Nigerian universities who had participated in a WIL program. A two-stage composite-based structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data. The average variance extracted and Heterotrait-Monotrait ratio were used to establish the validity and reliability of the instruments. A structural model was used to test the hypothetical constructs' relationship and level of significance. The findings supported all hypothesized direct relationships that WIL enhances graduate employability skills. The study concludes that WIL has immense benefits for students, including developing employability skills (i.e., Analytical, adaptability, communication, fundamental, ICT, interpersonal, and 4IR skillsets) for future employment. Consequently, it was recommended that higher education providers strengthen and establish frameworks for effective work-integrated learning program to enhance graduate employability.
WITHDRAWN: Researching Social Anxiety in an Online Sample of Patients
Authors: Khalifa Samar
Published: February 2024

The full text of this preprint has been withdrawn by the authors while they make corrections to the work. Therefore, the authors do not wish this work to be cited as a reference. Questions should be directed to the corresponding author.
Rare earth ion-infused α-MnO2 nano-rods for excellent EMI shielding efficiency: Experimental and theoretical insights
Authors: Mondal Dheeraj , Bhattacharya Debopriya , Mondal Tanmoy , Kundu Manisha , Sarkar Sujata , Mondal Indrajit , Mandal Tapas Kumar , Paul Biplab Kumar , Das Sukhen
Published: February 2024

In this communication, for the first time rare earth elements like Gd3+ and Er3+ ions are impregnated into the α-MnO2 tunneled structure involving the modified chemical synthesis route followed by hydrothermal technique. X-ray diffraction patterns and Raman spectroscopy confirm the proper phase formation without any impurity. A theoretical in-depth DFT study for the electronic bands and variation of density of states with the infusion of rare earth elements into the host structure confirms the experimental findings and depicts the suitability of the material for the EMI shielding application. The novel synthesis technique helps to achieve uniform nanorod formation with a high specific surface area. Doping-induced defects, high surface-to-volume ratio, Maxwell-Wagner–Siller interfacial polarization, etc lead to achieving high dielectric response with moderate tangent loss at a frequency range of 40Hz to 1MHz. Temperature-dependent dielectric behavior indicates the paramagnetic to ferromagnetic transition at 120 and 70 for the Gd- and Er-doped α-MnO2 samples respectively. The electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness (SE) has achieved a maximum of − 43 dB at 15.3 GHz and −46 dB at 15.3 GHz for Gd- and Er-doped α-MnO2 thin layer of thickness ∼600 μm respectively. Higher dipolar polarization, loss tangent, conductive pathways, and defects inside the crystal lead to attaining a high EMI shielding efficiency. This result reveals >99.999% EMI SE against the hazardous electromagnetic waves in the microwave/GHz frequency region.
Short-Depth QAOA Circuits and Quantum Annealing on Higher-Order Ising Models
Authors: Pelofske Elijah , Bärtschi Andreas , Eidenbenz Stephan
Published: February 2024

We present a direct comparison between QAOA (Quantum Alternating Operator Ansatz), and QA (Quantum Annealing) on 127 qubit problem instances. QAOA with p = 1, 2 rounds is executed on the 127 qubit heavy-hex graph gate-model quantum computer ibm washington, using on-device grid-searches for angle finding, and QA is executed on two Pegasus-chip D-Wave quantum annealers. The problems are random Ising models whose connectivity matches heavy-hex graphs and the Pegasus graph connectivity, and optionally include hardwarecompatible cubic terms (ZZZ terms). The QAOA circuits are heavily optimized and of extremely short depth, with a CNOT depth of 6 per round, which allows whole chip usage of the heavy-hex lattice. QAOA and QA are both compared against simulated annealing and the optimal solutions are computed exactly using CPLEX. The noiseless mean QAOA expectation values for p = 1, 2 are computed using classical light-cone based simulations. We find QA outperforms QAOA on the evaluated devices.
Data Augmentation using Generative Adversarial Network with Enhanced Deep Convolutional Neural Network for Pneumonia Chest X-ray Images
Authors: P Porkodi S , V Sarada
Published: February 2024

Pneumonia is a serious and life-threatening disease that results in difficulty breathing and needs to be diagnosed as soon as possible. Chest Xray is commonly used to diagnose pneumonia because they are cheap and readily available. Therefore the role of artificial intelligence in radiology has become a hot topic in using deep learning models. To train this model, a huge amount of datasets is required. To overcome this issue data augmentation technique has become a popular method for boosting the training data, particularly in medical images, where the data availability is insufficient. The generative adversarial network has become a popular method to generate synthetic data that looks like real data to increase the model’s performance compared to the traditional augmentation method. This paper focuses on a new GAN architecture i.e, Pneumonia GAN (a.k.a PGAN), to augment chest xray images using generative models. This novel PGAN architecture can successfully increase xray images. The performance of the novel PGAN model generates xray images that look like real images when compared with a conventional method. The comparison result proved that the proposed model generates an excess number of images compared to other techniques, and the mathematical calculation for each layer is discussed.
Depth Penetration Optimization Using Metaheuristic in Hybrid Laser Arc Welding
Authors: Medina Gladys Yerania Perez , Siller Elias Carrum , Garces Rocio Saldana , Villanueva Pedro Perez
Published: February 2024

Hybrid welding is a process apply in automotive materials to obtain benefits such as complete penetration, narrow heat affected zones and reduce filler material used. Recently a new industrial revolution is taken place called manufacturing 4.0, the automotive industry has a great interest in all the pillars which making it up, one of the principal pillars is the big data analysis such as welding parameters applied in advances welding processes. The present work describes a welding optimization applying metaheuristic algorithms to find and predict depth penetration (DP) in ASTM 1520 steel welded by a hybrid laser arc welding with the objective to improve the weld quality. Diverse experiments were used to obtain a suitable model, considering welding speed (WS), voltage (V), current (A) and laser power (P). The experimental results demonstrated that the Pareto front values obtained by algorithms improve the DP.
First report on Molecular Characterization of Oestrus ovis in sheep from India
Authors: Nagarajan Govindasamy , Kanakarajadurai K , Pachaiyappan K , Pandian S Jegaveera , Thirumurugan P , Thirumaran S M K
Published: February 2024

The objective of the present study is to characterize the dipteran larvae species infesting the sheep being maintained at SRRC, Mannavanur, by means of COI gene based PCR. During the last week of May 2021,post mortem examination of the skull of an Avikalin male sheep (20 months old) revealed the presence of larvae in its nasal sinuses. The larvae were washed in PBS (pH 7.2) and preserved in 70% alcohol. Total genomic DNA was isolated from the larvae using an initial step of grinding with liquid Nitrogen in a sterile mortar and pestle. Using the isolated genomic DNA from the larvae as a template, Cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene based PCR was employed using the primers designed based on the COI gene of reference isolate of Oestrus ovis available in the GenBank. Full length COI gene (1534 bp) gene of Oestrus ovis in sheep from South India was targeted in the PCR experiment. The pTZ57R/T vector was used for the cloning of the PCR amplified fragment and the confirmed recombinant plasmid was subjected to sequencing experiments. In addition to morphological examination, based on COI gene based PCR, eventual sequencing experiments and BLAST analysis, it was confirmed that the larvae in the nasal sinuses of sheep from South India were Oestrus ovis. The South Indian isolate of Oestrus ovis is sharing 100% sequence identity both at nucleotide and amino acid levels with that of O.ovis from Spain. The North Indian isolate of O.ovis (from Jammu) exhibited 92 & and 99% identity at respective nucleotide and amino acid levels with South Indian isolate. With other members of the subfamily Oestrinae, the share of per cent nucleotide and amino acid identities of South Indian O.ovis ranged from 85–86% and 95–96%, respectively. O.ovis from South India was grouped with the other members of Oestrinae from different geographical areas of the globe in the analysis of phylogenetic tree based on COI amino acid sequences. Based on the research findings, it is concluded that Oestrus ovis is the dipteran species infesting the sheep at Mannavanur, Tamil Nadu, India. To our knowledge, this is the first report on full length nucleotide sequences of COI gene of O.ovis in sheep from Indian subcontinent.
Digital Green Innovation Pathway: Artificial Intelligence and Urban Green Innovation Levels - A Case Study of the Yangtze River Economic Belt in China.
Authors: Xingxing He , junjie ruan , caixing bian , yu sun
Published: February 2024

With the iterative evolution of artificial intelligence technology, its characteristics such as intelligence and digitization have gradually become one of the important new engines for China's green innovation development. Based on the theory of discontinuous innovation and using panel data from 2011–2020 for 100 prefecture-level and above cities in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, this paper analyzes the internal mechanism of AI's effect in enhancing green innovation from the perspective of industrial agglomeration. It constructs a logical framework for AI-empowered green innovation development. The research shows that AI effectively promotes the enhancement of green innovation levels in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, a conclusion that still holds after endogeneity and robustness tests. Industrial agglomeration is an important mechanism pathway for AI to effectively enhance the green innovation level in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that, from the perspective of city size, the larger the city, the better the effect of AI in empowering green innovation development in cities along the Yangtze River Economic Belt. Regarding the heterogeneity of the three major city clusters in the Yangtze River Economic Belt, AI's green innovation effect is manifested in the Chengdu-Chongqing and Middle Yangtze city clusters, while in the Yangtze River Delta city cluster, AI does not play a green innovation effect. Further analysis finds that digital inclusive finance and the degree of informatization have significant dual threshold effects in the process of AI promoting green innovation levels. When digital inclusive finance and the degree of informatization cross the first threshold value, the marginal benefit of AI-empowered green innovation further increases. However, when digital inclusive finance crosses the second threshold value, the marginal benefit of AI-empowered green innovation weakens. Extended analysis discovers that AI has a significant spatial spillover effect in promoting green innovation development in the Yangtze River Economic Belt. Focusing on the dual perspectives of industrial agglomeration and green innovation, this provides theoretical support and empirical evidence for promoting China's green, low-carbon, and circular development.
Investigating Student Expectations in UK-based Higher Education Healthcare Programmes
Authors: Strong Samantha L.
Published: February 2024

Background
One of the most challenging times for a student is their transition to university from previous education, and this transition can be particularly difficult if their expectations vary greatly from what is likely to be genuine when they arrive. In healthcare education, this can be exacerbated as students also need to be safe and professional from the beginning of their academic journey. This highlights the importance of understanding students’ expectations as they join higher education, in order to identify any areas where expectations may need to be managed effectively.
Methods
This project utilised online surveys of: (1) incoming (transitioning) students (n = 37), (2) current students (n = 21), and (3) academic staff (n = 13) – all involved in healthcare programmes at a UK-based University. The questions were targeted around perceptions of outcomes, performance, workload, extracurricular activities, professionalism and support. Quantitative data were analysed using t-tests and ANOVAs; qualitative data were investigated using inductive thematic analysis.
Results
Data show that on average, both incoming and current students expect to graduate with a first-class degree but expect that they will ned to work harder than they did previously to achieve it. Data also suggest that overall there is a relatively large agreement in expectation between all three participant groups, however there are mismatches surrounding: the need to attend lectures and what constitutes an achievable grade. In particular, incoming students who reported having a close relative go to university and support them with their expectations were significantly less likely to agree that they need to attend lectures to achieve success. Thematic analyses highlight positive experiences of university align with a healthy work-life balance, good support structures, and good relationships; whereas negative experiences are associated with feelings of isolation, struggling, and experiencing poor mental health.
Conclusions
Overall these data suggest that best practice in teaching and supporting students could be facilitated through implementing small changes to help support management of student expectations as they join the institution. These include: study skills support, training in understanding grade boundaries in higher education, and reviewing how we utilise timetabled lecture sessions to ensure they are perceived to be maximally useful.
Mechanism of activation of β-1,3-glucan synthase by Rho1
Authors: Wang Xiang , Li Jialu , Liu Huayi , Li Jian , Liu Juxiu , Dai Xinli , Zhu Angqi , Xiao Qingjie , Qian Wenyu , Li Honghao , Guo Li , Yan Chuangye , Deng Dong , Luo Yunzi
Published: February 2024

The β-1,3 glucan synthase (GS) is essential for the biosynthesis of β-1,3 glucan, a well-conserved structural component of fungal cell wall. The GS holoenzyme is a multi-enzyme complex consisting of the glycosyltransferase FKS and the essential regulatory factor Rho1, a small GTPase. However, the precise mechanism by which Rho1 activates FKS1 activity in a GTP-dependent manner remains elusive. Here, we present two cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of FKS1 alone (resting state) and FKS1-Rho1 complex (activating state), respectively. Structural analysis reveals that FKS1 adopts a cellulase-like conformation, wherein two segments of the cytoplasmic domain tightly bound together to form a functional structural unit. Remarkably, we unveil that the interaction between Rho1 and FKS1 is enhanced in the presence of a nonhydrolyzable guanosine triphosphate analog (GTP-γ-S). Rho1 is positioned within a pocket between the cytoplasmic domain of FKS1 and the transmembrane helix spanning TM7-15, engaging with the highly conserved glycosyltransferase domain of FKS1 (GT domain). Comparative analysis between the unbound (resting state) and Rho1-bound structures of FKS1 reveals the extensive conformational changes within FKS1, specifically in the GT domain and TM7-15. These alterations suggest that Rho1's GTP/GDP cycling acts as a molecular pump, inducing a dynamic transition between the resting and activating states of FKS1. Notably, the activation of Rho1 triggering FKS1 conformation changes, an evolutionary conserved "finger helix" within the FKS1-Rho1 complex adopts an up-and-down movement, ultimately pushing the growing glucan chain into FKS1’s transmembrane channel, thereby facilitating β-1,3 glucan elongation. Collectively, our results provide a vivid ratchet and pawl model to describe the mechanism of fungal β-1,3-glucan biosynthesis.
Contrast-enhanced ultrasound appearance of adrenal hemorrhage after orthotopic liver transplantation: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Hongjun , Liao Mei , Zheng Bowen , Jin Jieyang , Yi Shuhong , Ren Jie
Published: February 2024

Objectives
This study aimed to identify the incidence of AH after OLT and to summarize the ultrasound (US) and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) characteristics.
Methods
Patients with adrenal lesions after OLT at our hospital were retrospectively reviewed between January 2008 and November 2021. The reference diagnosis was defined based on surgical data, computed tomography scans, and magnetic resonance imaging with at least 12 months of follow-up. The incidence of AH and the features of US and CEUS after OLT were analyzed and compared with those of adrenal metastases.
Results
A total of 23 patients (1.2%) with AH and 7 (0.35%) with suprarenal metastases were assessed. Compared with metastases, hematomas had more inhomogeneous echotextures (57% vs. 0.00%, P = 0.010), hypoechoic or mixed-echoic patterns (96% vs. 71%, P = 0.022), and anechoic areas (52% vs. 0.00%, P = 0.024), and their echotexture varied more over time (65% vs. 0.14%, P = 0.031). CEUS was performed in 12 patients with AH and 2 with metastases. Contrast extravasation was observed in one active bleeding hematoma, whereas no enhancement was observed in any static hematoma (100%). However, adrenal metastases appeared contrast-enhanced in the early arterial phase, followed by fast wash-out in the late phase (100%), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001).
Conclusion
The sonographic characteristics of AH after OLT vary over time. CEUS is recommended when adrenal lesions are detected, as CEUS can differentiate AH from metastases.
The what, when, and how of translating knowledge to action in nature-society systems for sustainability
Authors: Anderies John , Mathias Jean-Denis
Published: February 2024

The notion of a safe operating space for humanity has recently emerged as a conceptual guide for global-scale sustainability policy challenges. While the Planetary Boundaries Framework defines this space and has spurred empirical work to determine where the Earth system is relative to its boundaries, even less is known regarding the capacity of globally interconnected societies to navigate towards or remain within a safe operating space when constrained by imperfect information. This study leverages notions of observability and controllability from modern control systems theory to explore the link between information and the capacity to navigate Earth system dynamics in three interrelated sustainability problems. The analysis highlights the critical dependence of the notion of a safe operating space on information and decision processes and the subtle interplay between how past, real-time, and projected information on a particular observation is weighted and the controllability of a system.