bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Websérie Conecte-se ao Controle: : uma Introdução ao Sistema de Controle Interno e à gestão de riscos
Authors:   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Moro Junior Antonio Aparecido , Carregari Regiane Marcondes ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Oliveira Paulo Cesar de ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campos Silvia Franchin de ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Louro Daniel Wayne ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Melo Verônica Palácio de Pádua ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Martins Dirceu ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Maes Laurie Larrea ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista
Published: February 2024

Introdução/Objetivos: Os temas “Sistema de Controle Interno” e “Gestão de Riscos” são pouco disseminados e requerem uma estratégia de comunicação que possibilite uma compreensão inicial dos conceitos, características e importância do tema para os resultados da organização. O objetivo é demonstrar que a inserção destes temas por intermédio da estratégia de uso da comunicação digital, sob o formato de websérie é efetiva para a sensibilização do público quanto aos conceitos do tema veiculado e em forma de preparação para ações posteriores. Metodologia: A metodologia utilizada é quali-quanti na modalidade descritiva, uma vez que expõe os dados de visualizações da websérie “Conecte-se ao controle” e busca descrever os resultados a partir da percepção da comunidade em relação aos tópicos abordados. Resultados: A veiculação da websérie atingiu resultados tangíveis, alcançando um público de 6746 telespectadores, com uma média de 397 por episódio. Obteve resultados intangíveis, pois foi possível constatar que o público alvo possuía uma compreensão inicial das temáticas, sendo capaz de diferenciar tanto as estruturas que compõem o sistema de controle interno quanto às atividades que estão sendo desenvolvidas para a implementação da gestão de riscos na Unesp. Conclusão: a websérie foi meio eficaz para a veiculação dos temas propostos. Se insere como ferramenta útil na difusão de conceitos e a introdução de temas que estejam em um plano subjetivo ou pouco conhecido pelo público e também quando houver a necessidade de difusão de informações em um contexto espacial amplo.
Aplicação do ChatBOT na orientação dos servidores na nova Lei de Licitações e Contratos – Lei Federal nº 14.133/2021
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Ishii Hector Allen , Coutinho Lucas Henrique ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Schedenffeldt Patrícia Ferrari ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Palmieri Cleber de Lima ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas, Nakata Lina Amaral ,   Universidade Estadual de Campinas
Published: February 2024

Introdução: Com a publicação da nova Lei de Licitações e Contratos no país, a Lei Federal nº 14.133/2021, o governo de São Paulo vem nos últimos meses conduzindo de forma distinta e ininterrupta a implantação deste dispositivo no Estado. Na mesma direção, a Universidade vem traçando ações para promover as adequações necessárias nos procedimentos e regimentos atuais. Objetivo: Criar um ambiente real e tangível, onde os servidores que atuam diretamente com o processo de compra na Universidade, possam buscar informações enxutas sobre as novas diretrizes de contratação de forma dinâmica e interativa. Metodologia: Como a solução já foi idealizada antes mesmo do início do projeto, decidimos utilizar uma metodologia ágil para superar as fases de desenvolvimento deste produto. Dessa maneira, buscamos no Design Sprint os elementos necessários para auxiliar a construção desta ferramenta. Portanto, conseguimos de imediato seguir para as etapas de decisão, desenho do protótipo, teste e validação do protótipo e implementação final da ferramenta. Resultados: A implementação do chatbot traz inúmeros benefícios e otimiza muito o nosso fluxo de atendimento para os nossos usuários. Dentre as mais importantes podemos destacar a agilidade da ferramenta, a disponibilidade em tempo integral e a redução dos custos. Todos os benefícios acima mencionados convergem para o mesmo propósito: melhorar a experiencia do usuário. Conclusão: A nova Lei de Licitações e Contratos trouxe mudanças significativas para o processo de compras públicas, e é importante que os servidores que atuam diretamente com esse processo estejam cientes das novas normas e se adaptem a elas.
A importância de estruturas institucionais de apoio aos pesquisadores para o incremento do número de projetos e captação de recursos
Authors:   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Nascimento Eliane Cristina Gonçalves do , Domingues Andre Luis ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista, Abib Tayane Aidar ,   Universidade Estadual Paulista
Published: February 2024

Introdução: O financiamento das pesquisas, seja através de órgãos governamentais federal ou estadual e fundações é extremamente importante para o desenvolvimento da ciência no país. No entanto, a burocracia envolvida no processo de submissão e realização dos projetos toma tempo relevante dos pesquisadores e pode desencorajá-los a formalizar propostas. É neste cenário que institutos e universidades brasileiras, assim como universidades internacionais de renome, também incorporam ações que visam suprir essa demanda. Objetivo: Neste trabalho discutiu-se o papel da estrutura administrativa designada para auxiliar os pesquisadores do Instituto de Biociências, Letras e Ciência Exatas, uma das unidades da Universidade Estadual Paulista – Unesp junto a agências de fomento à pesquisa. Metodologia: Após análise de dados e informações obtidas junto a pesquisadores, evidenciou-se que a existência de uma estrutura de apoio institucional à pesquisa é muito relevante para que pesquisas sejam realizadas, permitindo que o pesquisador não tenha preocupação com a burocracia, mas sim, possa dedicar-se à ciência e buscar outros financiamentos externos que incrementem os laboratórios e auxiliem no desenvolvimento da pesquisa no país. Resultados/Conclusão: Constatou-se ainda que, grande parte dos pesquisadores afirmaram que há possibilidade de incremento do apoio dessa estrutura ao passo que a própria Instituição compreenda a necessidade de ampliar a abrangência do apoio, aumentando o número de pessoas envolvidas e principalmente que estes estejam exclusivamente dedicadas ao suporte do pesquisador nos assuntos referentes a administração dos projetos.
Solar Panel Power Generator with Automatic Charging using PWM System based on Microcontroller
Authors: Widodo Sulistyo , Wahyuningsih Erfiana , Adhiyoga Yohanes Galih
Published: February 2024

Indonesia will become a net importer if it runs out of oil and gas reserves within the next 11 to 12 years if no alternative energy sources are developed. Therefore, there is a need to utilize alternative energy that is not dependent on oil or gas. One alternative energy is using solar light energy. This research designed a device that can convert the energy of sunlight into electrical energy and automatically store electrical energy in a battery with PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) so that it can be used as alternative energy, and help reduce the consumption of electricity from PLN. The battery used 12V 80Ah and a solar panel module 50W for energy storage and system resources. The research results show that systems can automatically charge energy using sunlight and turn the lights to 7W. Using the charging system automatically uses PWM to reduce the risk of damage to the battery because, in the charging process, battery conditions will be monitored. The maximum power generated from solar panel modules used is 35.57 W.
QUENCH: Quantum Unraveling in Enhanced Nonlinear CTP Hydrodynamics
Authors: Stephenson Matthew James
Published: February 2024

We introduce the linear subgroup of volume-preserving diffeomorphism as the underlying symmetry to construct an action within the effective field theory framework and the Schwinger-Keldish formalism. The formulated action is posited to effectively incorporate dissipative effects into the Navier-Stokes equations.
Current and Expected Pricing Markup as Derived from The Capital Asset Pricing Model and Tobin’s Q and Applied to the UK’s FTSE 100
Authors: Hackworth Paul
Published: February 2024

Price markups and firm Tobin’s Q ratios are widely believed to have been increasing in the past several decades. Various models for the calculation of price markups have been developed, but each have methodological drawbacks and some results are poorly reflective of the near past wider macroeconomic experience. This paper defines an approach for the definition and measurement of markup pricing using the measure of Economic Rent and The Capital Asset Pricing Model. The results show limited markup pricing for The UK’s FTSE 100 companies (2018-2023), but that that certain Real Estate, Technology/Media and Financial Services/Equity Investment firms have enjoyed higher price markup levels. An analysis of the business models of these firms is used to qualitatively propose explanations for such markups. Finally, this work offers a formal proof that that expected price markup is equal to Tobin’s Q and finds that the empiric market level of markup is near equivalent to the market Tobin’s Q; differences between the markup and Tobin’s Q at the level of the firm are equally assessed.
Effects of Potential Prebiotics from Codium fragile on Intestinal Diseases
Authors: Oh Su Won , Kim Sung Keun , Ahn Byung Jae , Lim Sung Keun , Yang Seung Hwan
Published: February 2024

Codium fragile, a green algae, exhibit biological properties. In this study, we examined the effect of Codium fragile extract (CFE) on dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis. As the administration of CFE increased, the proliferation of Akkermansia muciniphila, which is key player in metabolic and gastrointestinal disorders, increased. After CFE administration for 10 weeks, acetic acid was revealed as the major metabolite in mouse cecum and β-glucuronidase activity in mouse feces is decreased. Further, CFE significantly alleviates the acute intestinal injury induced by DSS administration, including DAI scores and colon length. MPO activity in the colon was significantly reduced in the CFE-fed group, which indicated that CFE could inhibit neutrophils infiltration and inflammation in mice. In conclusion, a protective effect of CFE against DSS colitis suggests its clinical use for IBD patients.
González, Philip II of Spain and the Architecture of Empire (University Park: The Pennsylvania State University Press, 2021)
Authors: Jordan Gschwend Annemarie
Published: February 2024

Review of Philip II of Spain and the Architecture of Empire. By Laura Fernández González. University Park: The Pennsylvania State University Press, 2021. ISBN: 978-0-271-08724-5. 240 pp. $94.95.
Mariana’s Linage: The Political Aspects of Claudio Coello’s Portrait
Authors: Llorente Mercedes
Published: February 2024

The Habsburg continuity in the Catholic monarchy is represented by the House of Bavaria, or at least that was what Mariana struggled to achieve in the last years of her life. The Electress of Bavaria was the daughter of Leopold I and Infanta Margarita, Mariana’s daughter. Maria Antonia’s son, Maximillian Emmanuel of Bavaria, was thought of as the future heir of Charles II when it became clear that the King would not have issue. New portraits were portrayed to reflect the new roles played by the first Spanish Habsburg Queen Mother: Mariana of Austria, and she also used them to work for her great-grandson.
Historical Transformation of Diagnosis and Medical Cosmologies
Authors: ÖKE KARAKAYA Pınar , YILMAZ Necla
Published: February 2024

The changes that medicine has undergone throughout history have led to various transformations in the diagnosis process. The effect of metaphysical elements was seen in the diagnosis process in Antiquity and the Middle Ages. After the Renaissance, the diagnosis process took on a more systematic character. The values of each age affected the diagnosis process. In ancient times, there was a symptom-based approach in the diagnosis process and symptoms were sometimes associated with metaphysical elements. The diagnostic techniques used in Antiquity reflect class differences. Some diagnostic techniques of this period were the source of the techniques used today. The understanding of Christianity in the Middle Ages had interrupted the diagnosis and treatment process until the Renaissance. The Renaissance was an important period in shaping the philosophical foundations of medical science. Today, the diagnosis process is more systematic and mechanistic. The understanding of each era is associated with medical cosmology. In the study, the diagnosis process is examined historically and the diagnosis process of the 18th century and beyond is discussed in the context of medical cosmologies.
Teknoloji Temelli Kamu Hizmeti Sunumu ve Personel Memnuniyeti
Authors: AYDIN Ercüment , ÖKTEM M. Kemal , ÇİFTÇİ Leyla
Published: February 2024

Bu çalışmanın amacı günümüzde yaygın bir yöntem olarak kullanılan teknoloji temelli kamu hizmeti sunumunu personel memnuniyeti açısından incelemektir. Günümüzde kamu hizmetleri değişen ve gelişen koşullara bağlı olarak farklı şekillerde sunulmaktadır. Teknolojinin artan etkisi ile hizmetlerin özelikle internet üzerinden sunulması olağan bir uygulama olarak karşımıza çıkmaktadır. Son zamanlarda ortaya çıkan teknolojik, bilimsel, sosyal, ekonomik, siyasal, küresel bazı gelişmeler de örgütleri alışılagelmiş yöntemlerin dışına çıkmaya zorlamakta veya yönlendirmektedir. Örneğin son yıllarda ortaya çıkan Covid-19 ile teknolojiye dayalı hizmet sunumu alternatif, kolaylaştırıcı ya da tamamlayıcı bir yöntem olmanın ötesinde zorunlu ve hemen hemen tek hizmet sunma şekli haline gelmiştir. Bu süreçte personelin yeni sürece uyum sağlaması yanında teknolojiye uyumu da önem taşımaktadır. Bu bağlamda çalışmada Minnesota Tatmin Ölçeğinden yararlanılarak üç farklı kurumda çalışan personelin teknolojiye dayalı hizmet sunumuna ilişkin memnuniyet düzeyi analiz edilmiştir. Toplam 249 katılımcıya yapılan anket sonucunda eğitim düzeyi, medeni durum, cinsiyet gibi faktörlerin iş memnuniyet düzeyini etkilediği görülmüştür.
Involvement of family caregivers in dementia care research: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Jagoda Franziska Anushi , Hirt Julian , Mueller Claudia , Halek Margareta
Published: February 2024

Background
Family caregivers of people with dementia are a distinct group due to the particularly stressful and time-intensive care situation at home. Despite these challenges, involving them in research is crucial to better understand and address their specific needs. However, little evidence exists regarding a tailored approach for researchers for this group considering their situation at home.
Methods
A scoping review will be conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodological guidance, including the databases MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Scopus (Elsevier) and PsycInfo (EBSCO). The review will include family caregivers of people with dementia, regardless of age, gender, or ethnicity, who have been actively involved in research throughout the research process. Moreover, sources of evidence from any country in both English and German are eligible for inclusion. Sources will be screened by two independent reviewers. Results will be extracted using a tailored charting tool and presented in the final report according to the research questions and objectives.
Discussion
Developing a tailored approach to involve family caregivers of people with dementia in research and development has profound importance to both the scientific community and the target group itself.
Statistical Considerations for the Platform Trial in COVID-19 Vaccine Priming and Boosting
Authors: Dymock Michael , McLeod Charlie , Richmond Peter , Snelling Tom , Marsh Julie A
Published: February 2024

The Platform trial In COVID-19 priming and BOOsting (PICOBOO) is a multi-site, adaptive platform trial designed to generate evidence of the immunogenicity, reactogenicity, and cross-protection of different booster vaccination strategies against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) and its variants, specific for the Australian context. The PICOBOO trial randomises participants to receive one of three COVID-19 booster vaccine brands (Pfizer, Moderna, Novavax) available for use in Australia, where the vaccine brand subtypes vary over time according to the national vaccine roll out strategy, and employs a Bayesian hierarchical modelling approach to efficiently borrow information across consecutive booster doses, age groups and vaccine brand subtypes. Here, we briefly describe the PICOBOO trial structure, and report the statistical considerations for the estimands, statistical models and decision making for trial adaptations. This paper should be read in conjunction with the PICOBOO Core Protocol and PICOBOO Sub-Study Protocol 1: Booster Vaccination. PICOBOO was registered on 10 February 2022 with the Australian and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12622000238774.
S-nitrosylation of p39 promotes its degradation and contributes to synaptic spine loss induced by β-amyloid peptide
Authors: Zhang Peng , Cheng Aobing , Wang Jingyi , Li Jiayi , Wang Jie , Xu Mufan , Chen hongzhuan
Published: February 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD), characterized by cognitive decline, is increasingly recognized as a disorder marked by synaptic loss and dysfunction. Despite this understanding, the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms contributing to synaptic impairment remain largely unknown. In this study, we elucidate a previously undiscovered signaling pathway wherein the S-nitrosylation of the Cdk5 activator p39, a post-translational modification involving the addition of nitric oxide to protein cysteine residues, plays a crucial role in synaptic dysfunctions associated with AD. Our investigation reveals heightened p39 S-nitrosylation in the brain of an amyloid precursor protein (APP)/presenilin 1 (PS1) transgenic mouse model of AD. Additionally, soluble amyloid-β oligomers (Aβ), implicated in synaptic loss in AD, induce p39 S-nitrosylation in cultured neurons. Notably, we uncover that the regulation of p39 levels is influenced by S-nitrosylation, with nitric oxide S-nitrosylating p39 at Cys265 and subsequently promoting its degradation. Furthermore, our study demonstrates that S-nitrosylation of p39 at Cys265 significantly contributes to amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide-induced dendrite retraction and spine loss. Collectively, our findings highlight S-nitrosylation of p39 as a novel aberrant redox protein modification involved in the pathogenesis of AD, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic target for the disease.
Antioxidant Activity and Physicochemical Stability of Nanospheres: Evaluation in Vitro and Applied to Biodiesel
Authors: Hagemann Eduarda Carolina Scherer , de Oliveira Karen Cristine Silva , Rodrigues Paulo Rogério Pinto , Lima Fernanda Oliveira , Benvegnú Dalila Moter , CabreiraSoares Letiére , Gallina André Lazarin
Published: February 2024

Biodiesel is a fuel from renewable sources which has several environmental advantages. However, due to structural characteristics, it becomes susceptible to oxidation, requiring the use of antioxidants. In this way, antioxidants added to biodiesel could be degraded when exposed to environmental conditions, reducing their capacity. Therefore, carrier systems, such as nanospheres, are an alternative to providing protection and controlled release of antioxidants. In this work, poly-ε-caprolactone nanospheres containing tert-butyl-hydroquinone and ascorbic acid antioxidants were developed, and their physical-chemical stability and in vitro antioxidant activity were evaluated for 150 days. The nanospheres to biodiesel were also carried out to evaluate the antioxidant activity. Nanospheres with negative zeta potential, polydispersion index less than 0.3, and nanometric scale were obtained. Regarding the in vitro antioxidant activity, the ascorbic acid nanospheres showed results greater than 50%, while for the tert-butyl-hydroquinone nanospheres, the results were greater than 80% during 150 days. The addition of nanospheres containing antioxidants to biodiesel did not present satisfactory results, since it reduced oxidation stability of biodiesel.
Evaluation on Characteristics of Anticancer and Antimicrobial Activities with Cipla Loaded ZnO Nanostructural Rods for Human Breast Cancer Cell Line Targeting
Authors: T Manikandan , G Padmalaya , S Murugeswari , M Ramakrishnan , Krishnasamy Karthik , Mallik Saurav , Tomar Namrata , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: February 2024

A ciprofloxacin-ZnO nanoparticle-based formulation for biocompatible nanodrug delivery has been developed and validated on breast cancer cells. The ciprofloxacin medication was combined with the generated znO nanoparticles utilising a simple chemical process. The structural and morphological study has been revealed using Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) analysis. The crystallinity behaviour of ZnO nanoparticles has been reported previously, which helps to suggest for further biological applications. To enhance the structural study, ciprofloxacin loaded ZnO nanoparticles was revealed to have flower like structure. Their structural analysis was subsequently investigated utilising FESEM after the medication was loaded. From the biological study, ciprofloxacin – ZnO NPs showed excellent cytotoxicity behaviour in MCF-7 cell line which was found from confocal microscopy images using Methylthiazolyl Diphenyl-Tetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay technique. Antibacterial research also provided support for their other biological functions. A remarkable drug delivery approach for breast cancer therapy may be possibly given by ZnO NPs' suggesting drug loading capacity aids in prolonged release, predominant cancer cell uptake, effective cytotoxicity and better biological profile.
SARS-CoV-2 infection among liver and kidney transplantation recipients in Shiraz, Iran
Authors: Maleki Ali , Yaghobi Ramin , Daneshfar Negar , Golshan Mehdi , Geramizadeh Bita , Amiri Fahimeh Bagheri , Sanati Parastoo Yektay , Rezaie Jahangir , Salehi-Vaziri Mostafa
Published: February 2024

Background; The vulnerability of immunosuppressed populations, including transplant recipients, to infectious diseases has been brought to light once more by the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose of this study was to look into any possible relationships between COVID-19 and post-transplantation results in liver and kidney transplant recipients.
Material and methods; Individuals who had undergone liver and kidney transplants and tested positive for COVID-19 underwent a retrospective review of their medical records. Patient demographics, transplant characteristics, immunosuppressive therapy, and COVID-19 results were all recorded. Then, nasopharyngeal swab samples were utilized for the whole genome sequencing on the Nanopore NGS platform. Logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate the association among transplant-related Immunosuppression, biological biomarkers, and COVID-19 susceptibility.
Results; The study found a potential correlation between COVID-19 and adverse post-transplantation outcomes in liver and kidney transplant patients. Higher D-dimer in liver transplant patients was seen (p = 0.003). There was also significant rise in RBC (p=0.047), Hb (p=0.027), and Htc (p=0.008) after transplantation.
Discussion and conclusion; The present study provides valuable insights into the potential correlation between COVID-19 and post-transplantation outcomes in liver and kidney transplant patients. The management of transplant recipients during the COVID-19 pandemic would benefit from the current study's findings.
Exploring Deep Learning Strategies for Intervertebral Disc Herniation Detection on Veterinary MRI
Authors: Huang Shoujin , Deng Guoxiong , Kang Yan , Li Jianzhong , Li Jingyu , Lyu Mengye
Published: February 2024

Intervertebral Disc Herniation (IVDH) is a common spinal disease in dogs, significantly impacting their health, mobility, and overall well-being. This study initiates an effort to automate the detection and localization of IVDH lesions in veterinary MRI scans, utilizing advanced artificial intelligence (AI) methods. A comprehensive canine IVDH dataset, comprising T2-weighted sagittal MRI images from 213 pet dogs of various breeds, ages, and sizes, was compiled and utilized to train and test the IVDH detection models. The experimental results showed that traditional two-stage detection models reliably outperformed one-stage models, including the recent You Only Look Once X (YOLOX) detector. In terms of methodology, this study introduced a novel spinal localization module, successfully integrated into different object detection models to enhance IVDH detection, achieving an average precision (AP) of up to 75.32%. Additionally, transfer learning was explored to adapt the IVDH detection model for a smaller feline dataset. Overall, this study provides insights into advancing AI for veterinary care, identifying challenges and exploring potential strategies for future development in veterinary radiology.
Real-Time Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound Combined with Ultrasound Monitoring Radiofrequency Ablation Versus Laparoscopic Partial Nephrectomy for cT1a Renal Cell Carcinoma: A Comparative Study with Mid-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Chen Shuaiqi , Fan Huijun , Sun Guangyu , Zhu Feng , Li Ran , Liu Ranlu
Published: February 2024

Objective
The study aims to compare oncological and functional mid-term outcomes following real-time contrast-enhanced ultrasound combined with ultrasound monitoring radiofrequency ablation (CEUS/USM-RFA) versus laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for treating cT1a renal cell carcinoma (RCC).
Methods
This is a retrospective data analysis of a high-volume single tertiary center. Patients with cT1a RCC were treated with CEUS/USM-RFA or LPN following multidisciplinary decision-making. According to different surgical methods, patients were divided into the RFA and LPN groups. Demographic information, tumor characteristics, surgical data, complications, and functional and oncological outcomes were reviewed. Differences between categorical and continuous parameters were evaluated using Pearson's chi-square and Student's t-tests, respectively.
Results
According to different surgical methods, 164 patients were divided into the RFA (41 cases) and LPN (123 cases) groups. The results revealed a nonsignificant difference in gender, tumor side, tumor size, RCC type, R.E.N.A.L. score, major complications, technical success, technique efficacy, or local tumor progression (LTP) between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, significant differences were observed in age, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) score, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) score, American Society of Anesthesiologist (ASA) score, tumor location, and minor complications (p < 0.05). The operative time, estimated blood loss, hospitalization time, and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) loss of the affected kidney in the RFA group were less than in the LPN group (p < 0.05). The decline of post-procedure eGFR of the affected kidney at six months was significantly less in RFA than in the LPN group (1.39 ± 4.67 vs. 4.32 ± 4.00 mL/min/1.73 m2, p < 0.001). Nevertheless, both groups had a similar 2-year recurrence-free survival (RFS) rate (97.65% vs. 100%, p = 0.083).
Conclusion
The CEUS/USM-RFA and LPN for cT1a RCC were all safe and effective. In rigorously screened patients with cT1a RCC, CEUS/USM-RFA had comparable oncological outcomes with LPN. The CEUS/USM-RFA had superiority in perioperative outcomes and preserving renal function.
Examining the Potential of Natural Disaster Monuments as Surrogate Indicators for Disaster Hazards in Japan
Authors: Sakamoto Jun
Published: February 2024

Japan is prone to natural disasters because of its diverse topographical, geological, and climatic conditions. It is vital to gain a deeper understanding of disaster-prevention measures to mitigate these effects. One aspect of this understanding is the construction of natural disaster monuments to educate future generations about lessons learned from past disasters. This study focuses on the location and distribution of these monuments and examines their potential as surrogate indicators of disaster hazards. To achieve this, we employ a two-pronged approach. The first approach is to analyze the relationship between the location of disaster monuments and disaster hazards. It involves plotting the locations of monuments from a database and investigating the relationship between the disaster covered by each monument and the current hazard using a hazard map portal site. The second approach is to assess the potential for disaster hazard mapping based on the disaster monuments. It involves creating Voronoi maps based on the location of disaster monuments and applying them to the entire national land area. It produced a disaster hazard map for Japan, including areas with no disaster monuments. The results provide aggregate information on the relationship between the location of disaster monuments and disaster hazards and the effectiveness of the Voronoi diagram-based disaster hazard maps. In many cases, the current hazard at the location of disaster monuments still exists, and 70% of the areas around tsunami-related monuments are still exposed to tsunami hazards. Additionally, this study suggests that Voronoi maps are promising for disasters and can accurately represent specific disaster hazard areas.
Preparation of pH Responsive Fluorescent Composite Nano- drug Carriers Based on Silicon Nanoparticles and Their Application in Tumor Cells
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Lu Jiahui , Zhang Yihao , Xi Bingyao , Gao Chang , Dou Yakun , Liu Zhanjun
Published: February 2024

Silicon nanoparticles (Si NPs) prepared by one-pot hydrothermal synthesis method was used as the fluorescence basis and mesoporous silica (MSNs) as the carrier to prepare pH responsive fluorescent composite nano-drug carriers (Si NPs-MSNs). A series of characterization methods were used to analyze their optical properties and characterize their structure. Using doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) as the drug model, the drug adsorbability and release of the prepared fluorescent composite nanocarriers were investigated. The biosafety and imaging effect of Si NPs-MSNs was investigated by MTT and cell imaging experiments. The drug absorption test showed that the drug loading rate of Si NPs-MSNs was 23.08% and the encapsulation rate was 76.94%. Drug release experiments indicated that Si NPs-MSNs were sensitive to pH. The results of MTT made known that Si NPs-MSNs had less cytotoxicity and were suitable for biological applications, and also proved that Si NPs-MSNs loaded with DOX had the effect of killing tumor cells. Tumor cell imaging experiments showed that Si NPs-MSNs can present good fluorescence imaging effect in tumor cells. In this study, the successful preparation of Si NPs-MSNs provided theoretical basis and research ideas for the further application of Si NPs and MSNs in the biological field.
Effect of 3-hydrazinylquinoxaline-2-thiol hydrogel on skin wound healing process in diabetic rats
Authors: Alamre Jehan Barakat , Alkreathy Huda , Ali Ahmed S. , Alfadil Abdelbagi , Alghamdi Sahar S.
Published: February 2024

Impaired wound healing in diabetic individuals creates huge social and financial burdens for both diabetic patients and the health system. Unfortunately, the current treatment has not resulted in consistently lower amputation rates. Quinoxalines are heterocyclic compounds with multiple important pharmacological properties. Their effect on wound healing has not been closely studied. In the current work, the wound healing effect of 3-hydrazinylquinoxaline-2-thiol hydrogel is tested topically in a full-thickness excision wound in streptozotocin-induced type 2 diabetic rats. We examined the wound closure rate, expression of inflammatory factors, growth factors in addition to the histological analysis. The result revealed a significant acceleration in wound closure in the treated group compared with the control experimental animals. Histological data demonstrated enhanced re-epithelialization and collagen disposition. The healing effect was additionally evaluated by the inhibition of the inflammatory response of interleukin (IL) - 1β interleukin (IL) - 6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF- α) and nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) with a marked improvement of the transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ-1), antioxidant markers and collagen-1. In silico study indicated a favorable drug-like properties and toxicity profile. The present work showed that 3-hydrazinylquinoxaline-2-thiol holds great potential for the treatment of diabetic wounds.
Influence of thermal conductivity and emissivity of heat shield surface material on the thermal field of Czochralski silicon crystal growth
Authors: Lv Xuekang , Hu Rongrong , Li Jiacheng , Ali Salamat , Li Gengjin , Qi Jing
Published: February 2024

Silicon crystal for solar cells are mainly produced by the Czochralski (CZ) method, in which the quality and production cost of silicon crystal are mainly affected by the thermal field of the crystal growth furnace. While the thermal field is significantly influenced by the heat shield material, in this study, the effect of thermal conductivity and emissivity of the heat shield material on the global thermal field was investigated by numerical simulation in Ansys Fluent software. The heat shield surface is divided into two parts, the high-temperature side part (close to the crucible and melt) and the low-temperature side part (close to the crystal), which are named as Hot-Side-Material and Cold-Side-Material, respectively. The results show that the same material can be chosen for both parts and the smaller the thermal conductivity and the emissivity of the material, the better the thermal field. As the thermal conductivity and emissivity of the heat shield surface material decrease, the melt-crystal (m-c) interface deflection decreases; the maximum thermal stress of the crystal and the required heater power are also reduced, while the crystal axial temperature gradient increases. Therefore, it is recommended to select material with low emissivity and low thermal conductivity as heat shield surface material.
Screen and evaluate the prognostic capacity and clinical value of Necroptosis-related Genes in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Wen Dake , Yan Ru , Zhang Lin , Zhang Haoyang , Chen Xuyang , Zhou Jian
Published: February 2024

Background：Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is an aggressive hematological neoplasm. Little improvement in survival rates has been achieved over the past few decades. Necroptosis has relationship with certain types of malignancies outcomes. Here, we evaluated the diagnostic ability and prognostic value of necroptosis-related genes (NRGs) in AML through bioinformatics analysis.
Methods：Necroptosis-related differentially expressed genes (NRDEGs) were acquired after intersecting Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from Gene Expression Omnibus(GEO) database with NRGs from GeneCards, Molecular Signatures Database (MsigDB) and literatures. Diagnosis models were constructed and hub-NRDEGs were obtained. Immune infiltration was analyzed. Kaplan–Meier(K-M) survival analyses was utilized to evaluate the prognostic values along with COX model.
Results：6 hub-NRDEGs were obtained. Gene RAPR1 showed inversely related with CD56dim natural killer cell (CD56dim NK cell) and CTSS positive with MDSCs. Gene ZNF217 showed significant difference in duration of survival in AML patients. Cox regression models revealed the 6 hub-NRDEGs had better predictive power at year 1 and year 5.
Conclusion：The screened NRDEGs might provide potential diagnostic biomarkers and treatment targets for AML patients.
Label free tracking to quantify nanoparticle diffusion through biological media
Authors: Schleyer Genevieve , Patterson Eann A. , Curran Judith M.
Published: February 2024

Nanotechnology is a rapidly evolving field and has been extensively studied in biological applications. An understanding of the factors that influence nanoparticle diffusion in biofluids can aid in the development of diverse technologies. The development of real-time, label-free tracking technologies would allow the expansion of current knowledge of the diffusion and activity of nanoparticles. Fluorescence based microscopy is one of the most widespread tools to monitor and track nanoparticle dynamics however, the influence of fluorescent tags on diffusion and biological activity is still unclear. In this study, we experimentally determined the diffusion coefficient of gold nanoparticles using a label free, optical tracking technique and evaluated the influence of protein concentration, charge and diameter on nanoparticle diffusion through biological media. We dispersed positively- and negatively-charged nanoparticles with diameters 10nm – 100nm in a common cell culture media with different concentrations of serum proteins. Our results show that dynamic protein interactions influence nanoparticle diffusion in the range of serum concentrations tested. Experimental regimes to obtain quantitative information on the factors that influence the dynamics of nanoparticles in biological media have been developed.
Targeting Cellular Plasticity: Esculetin-Driven Reversion of Stemness and EMT Phenotype in Transforming Cells with Sequential p53/p73 Knockdowns
Authors: Mathur Ankit , Bareja Chanchal , Mittal Milky , Singh Anjali , Saluja Daman
Published: February 2024

The intricate interplay of cancer stem cell plasticity, along with the bidirectional transformation between epithelial-mesenchymal states, introduces further intricacy to offer insights into newer therapeutic approaches. Differentiation therapy, while successful in targeting leukemic stem cells, has shown limited overall success, with only a few promising instances. Using colon carcinoma cell strains with sequential p53/p73 knockdowns, our study underscores the association between p53/p73 and the maintenance of cellular plasticity. Morphological alterations corresponding with cell surface marker expressions, transcriptome analysis and functional assays were performed to access stemness and EMT (Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition) characteristics in the spectrum of cells exhibiting sequential p53 and p73 knockdowns. Notably, our investigation explores the effectiveness of esculetin in reversing the shift from an epithelial to a mesenchymal phenotype, characterized by stemness traits. Esculetin significantly induces enterocyte differentiation and promotes epithelial cell polarity by altering Wnt axes in Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) characterized by high mesenchymal features. These results align with our previous findings in leukemic blast cells, establishing esculetin as an effective differentiating agent in both Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and solid tumor cells.
Enhancing Public Mental Health for Youths in Post-Civil War Settings: Exploring Depression, Anxiety, Sleeping Disturbances, and Related Risk and Protective Factors
Authors: Igreja Victor , Axelsen Taryn , Brekelmans Alana
Published: February 2024

Background: Mental health research in post-conflict societies has predominantly concentrated on war-related traumas and post-traumatic stress disorder among those who lived through the conflict. However, there remains a significant gap in understanding the prevalence and severity of depression, anxiety disorders, sleeping disturbances among the younger generation in post-civil war societies, as well as their associations with age, gender, and risk and protective factors. This study aims to bridge this gap by focusing on young people in Mozambique, a resource-poor nation, two decades after the cessation of the civil war.
Methods: The study used mixed methods comprising qualitative and quantitative instruments that included the Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Self-Report Questionnaire (SRQ) and Nocturnal Intrusions after Traumatic Experiences Questionnaire (NITE). The sample involved n = 794 young people in homesteads and schools. To examine the results, univariate analysis, chi-square tests, binary logistic regression analyses and odds ratio were used.
Results: Risk factors were pervasive in households, communities, and schools. Mental health problems were commonly linked to severe depression (14.2%), anxiety-related disorders (39.3%), sleep disturbances (37.3%), and anxiety dreams (27.5%). Gender, age, and protective factors were associated with the incidence and severity of mental health outcomes, while living with both parents protected against the severity of anxiety-related disorders.
Conclusions: Understanding the contextual mental health needs of young people in post-civil war Mozambique is crucial for developing insights to craft and implement targeted public mental health policies and interventions in resource-limited settings. Addressing mental health issues among young people necessitates a concentrated effort on understanding and managing the interplay of risks and protective factors within families, communities, and schools.
Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation enhances short-latency afferent inhibition via cholinergic system activation
Authors: Kirimoto Hikari , Nezu Tomohisa , Horinouchi Takayuki , Saita Kazuya , Date Shota , Kurumadani Hiroshi , Maruyama Hirofumi
Published: February 2024

The present study examined the effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on short-latency afferent inhibition (SAI), as indirect biomarker of cholinergic system activation. 24 healthy adults underwent intermittent taVNS (30 sec on/30 sec off, 30 min) or continuous taVNS at a frequency of 25 Hz (30 sec on/30 sec off, 30 min) along with earlobe temporary stimulation (15 min or 30 min) in a 15 min) were performed in random order. The efficiency with which the motor evoked potential amplitudes evoked from the abductor pollicis brevismuscle by transcranial magnetic stimulation was attenuated by the preceding median nerve conditioning stimulus was compared before taVNS, immediately after taVNS, and 15 minutes after taVNS. Continuous taVNS significantly increased SAI at 15 min post-stimulation compared to baseline. A positive correlation (Pearson coefficient = 0.563, p = 0.004) was observed between baseline SAI and changes after continuous taVNS. These results suggest that 15 minutes of continuous taVNS increases the activity of the cholinergic nervous system, as evidenced by the increase in SAI. In particular, the increase after taVNS was more pronounced in those with lower initial SAI. This study provides fundamental insight into the clinical potential of taVNS for cholinergic dysfunction.
Bryozoan fauna from the Ferques Formation (Upper Devonian, Frasnian) of France
Authors: Ernst Andrej , Buttler Caroline
Published: February 2024

Bryozoan material from the Ferques Formation (Upper Devonian, Frasnian), Boulonnais, France contains two cystoporates Cystiramus cf. kondomensis Morozova, 1959 and Canutrypa francqana Bassler, 1952, a new trepostome species Dyoidophragma bigeye n. sp., as well as two fenestrates Hemitrypa sp. and Anastomopora inflata (Bigey, 1988b). The revised diagnosis of the genus Dyoidophragma Duncan, 1939 is suggested. The species composition reveals palaeobiogeographic relations to the Middle and Upper Devonian of Belgium, Germany and Poland, as well as possible relation to the Upper Devonian of Kuznetsk Basin in Russia.
Impact of Orthognathic Surgery on Stress Distribution in the Jaw of Class ll Women: An Integrated Analysis of Finite Element and DC/TMD.
Authors: Sommerfeld Ricardo , Olsson Bernardo , Feltrin Juliana , Signorini Luciana , Sebastiani Aline Monise , Scariot Rafaela , Costa Delson João da
Published: February 2024

Objectives
Orthognathic surgery aims to correct dentofacial deformities to improve both function and aesthetics. However, it can affect the position of the jaw head in the mandibular fossa, impacting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and leading to temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD). Computational simulations using the finite element method (FEM) help measure changes that may occur in the TMJ, simulating in vivo situations. The goal of this study is to investigate the effects of orthognathic surgery on TMJ and TMD symptoms, using computational simulations and clinical analysis methods to assess changes in stress distribution in the jaw head.
Materials and Methods
Five women with Class II malocclusion undergoing orthognathic surgery were analyzed, with clinical and computed tomography assessments performed one week before and six months after the procedure.
Results
Statistical analysis showed a mean reduction in preoperative stress (723.82 ± 306.70 MPa) to postoperative stress (465.53 ± 268.27 MPa) without significance (p = 0.115). Four out of five patients did not present TMD after surgery (p = 0.250), while three out of four patients with previous articular TMD no longer had it after surgery (p = 0.500).
Conclusions
In conclusion, there was a trend of reduced stress in the jaw head and TMD symptoms six months after orthognathic surgery.
Clinical Relevance: This study can contribute to the improvement of surgical techniques, development of postoperative follow-up protocols, and enhancement of clinical outcomes and quality of life for patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.
The role of long-term trends and internal variability in altering fire weather conditions in the western United States
Authors: Lou Jiale , Joh Youngji , Delworth Thomas
Published: February 2024

Atmospheric vapor pressure deficit (VPD) is closely related to fire activity in the western United States (US). Here, we demonstrate that the western US experiences an escalating VPD trend driven by increased atmospheric capacity to hold water vapor due to global warming, intensifying aridity and fire risk, especially in summertime. Atop these drying trends, the leading VPD mode, with a pronounced decadal component, displays a center-of-action in the southwest US. In its dry phase, this mode is characterized by reduced soil moisture, high-pressure systems, and La Niña-like conditions, and connected to decadal sea surface temperature (SST) variability in the Pacific and Atlantic basins. Leveraging large climate simulations, a backward model-analog technique reveals persistent SST signals a few seasons preceding the dry VPD mode. While state-of-the-art models can reasonably capture the spatial patterns of VPD, challenges emerge in representing the decadal component of the leading VPD mode, which predominantly arises from misrepresentations of the actual rather than saturation vapor pressure.