bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kryminalizacja niealimentacji jako wyraz karnoprawnej ochrony rodziny i opieki
Authors: Płońska Anna
Published: December 2023

Niniejszy artykuł porusza problematykę związaną z naruszeniem obowiązku alimentacyjnego, które w polskim systemie prawa karnego określane jest mianem niealimentacji. Autorka wskazuje na zmiany, jakie w zakresie kryminalizacji niealimentacji zostały wprowadzone do art. 209 k.k. na gruncie nowelizacji z dnia 23 marca 2017 roku. Celem projektodawcy było bowiem wzmocnienie realizacji obowiązku opieki poprzez zaspokojenie potrzeb materialnych osób, które nie są w stanie ich same zaspokoić. Nowelizacja przepisu art. 209 k.k. w założeniu miała stanowić karnoprawny instrument mający na celu coraz pełniejsze zaspokojenie potrzeb obywateli poprzez szersze zapewnienie realizacji ochrony uprawnień alimentacyjnych osób uprawnionych. Celem opracowania jest wskazanie problemów, przed którymi stoi współczesne prawo karne wobec problematyki niealimentacji, oraz próba ich oceny pod kątem założonych celów.
Repercussões na educação das concepções de ser humano
Authors: Martins Marcos Francisco , Prado Marciano do , Santos Ademir Barros dos
Published: December 2023

Este artigo apresenta a síntese de uma pesquisa exploratória de tipo bibliográfica e documental, de natureza qualitativa, que abordou a relação existente entre concepção de ser humano e educação. O objetivo foi o de identificar as decorrências que as visões antropológicas liberal, marxista, judaico-cristã e de matriz africana produzem aos processos educativos, na relação dialética que mantém entre si. Os principais resultados alcançados com a investigação são exibidos em cinco quadros, que procuram compendiar como as referidas concepções antropológicas, bastante marcantes na realidade brasileira atual, incidem sobre os diversos momentos/elementos dos processos educativos: princípios, finalidades, conteúdo, método, avaliação e gestão.
Impact of anti-corruption learning on perceptions of anomie among undergraduate students
Authors: Akhayeva Akmaral , Turgunbayeva Botagul Altayevna
Published: December 2023

This study aims to explore the impact of an anti-corruption education course on the perception of anomie among 358 undergraduate students from two public universities. The study adopted a mixed-methods research design. The experimental group received a six-week anti-corruption education course comprising video-based modules while the control group received no intervention. Participants' perceptions of anomie were assessed using pre- and post-test surveys. Additionally, semi-structured interviews were conducted with a subset of participants from the experimental group. Two-way repeated measures analysis of variance and interview transcript thematic analysis were both used to analyse the data.  The results demonstrated a significantly greater decline in anomie over time in the experimental group compared to the control group. Thematic analysis of the interview data provided further insight into participants’ understanding of the negative consequences associated with corrupt practices. The results demonstrate that the anti-corruption intervention is helpful in reducing students' unethical attitudes and strengthening their commitment to moral conduct.  Participants in the course provided positive reviews. Additionally, they shared that their viewpoints on different facets of corruption had undergone some changes. The results of this study have practical implications for both researchers and practitioners in the field of anti-corruption education.
Associations between resilience, technostress and reflective capacity in social pedagogy students: A structural equation modeling methodology
Authors: Baisarinova Aigerim , Toleubekova Rymshash
Published: December 2023

Understanding factors affecting student academic and life outcomes may be critical for social work programs and educational institutions. Therefore, this study aims to explore the relationships   between resilience, technostress   and reflective capacity among social work students. A cross-sectional non-experimental research design was used. One hundred and sixty-three social work students completed an online survey measuring technostress level, reflective capacity and psychological resilience. Data were analyzed using Pearson’s to estimate linear correlations, confirmatory factor analysis to ensure model fit and structural equation modeling with covariates to reveal the relationships between the measured constructs. The results indicated that resilience had a direct and negative effect on technostress, a positive and direct effect on reflective capacity and a negative indirect effect on technostress through reflective capacity. This means that social work students with higher levels of resilience had lower levels of technostress related to technology use were more likely to engage in reflective practices and had lower levels of technostress due to improved reflective capacity. These findings emphasize the significance of resilience and reflective practices in mitigating the negative effects of technology use among social work students. However, researchers should be cautious about generalizing findings due to the sample’s limitations and future investigations should consider longitudinal data from diverse populations.
A Study of Consumer Purchase Behavior on Health Food in the Multi-level Marketing
Authors: Chen Peng-Tung , Huang Yu-Ting , Lai Yi-Ping
Published: December 2023

The purpose of the research is to investigate the purchase behavior of Taiwanese consumers regarding multi-level marketing Health Food. The research focused on consumers who have purchased Health Food through multi-level marketing channels and aim to identify consumer behavior patterns. The study primarily focused on Taiwanese consumers and conducts an online questionnaire survey. A total of 322 responses were collected, and after excluding invalid questionnaires, the final sample size for the study was 305, with a utilization rate of 94.7%. Using IBM SPSS 25 for analysis, it was confirmed that among the demographic variables, only consumer age was significantly related to purchase behavior. Significant support was obtained for the association validation of the hypotheses, confirming the significant relationship between salesperson product information exposure and consumer purchase behavior of multi-level marketing Health Food, the significant relationship between consumer purchase behavior of multi-level marketing Health Food and consumer feedback, as well as the significant relationship between consumer feedback and Exposure of salesperson product information."
Craniological and dental non-metric data on the problem of the interaction between the repre-sentatives of the Sargatka and Bolsherechenskaya Cultures of the forest-steppe of the south Western Siberia
Authors: Kishkurno M.S. , Sleptsova A.V.
Published: December 2023

In the present paper, fully based on previously published craniological and dental non-metric data, the origins of common morpho-logical elements in the compositions of representatives of the Sargatka and Bolsherechenskaya Cultures are investigated. An attempt is made to assess the available data with the aid of the integrated analysis, implying combined examination of craniological and dental non-metric data for each population. The previous studies of the craniological and dental non-metric data showed that the series are significantly distinct in the differentiation by the vector ‘west-east’, or, in other words, Caucasoidness-Mongoloidness. Despite this, their certain affinity was recorded repeatedly, both in the analysis of craniometric data as well as in the study of odontoscopic data, but no explanation of this peculiarity has yet been proposed. The craniological sample of the Sargatka Culture comprised 158 crania and the dental non-metric one — 424 crania. The boundaries of the areal of the Sargatka Culture encompass the forest-steppe zone of the south of Western Siberia: the basins of the rivers Tobol, Ishim, and Irtysh, and the Baraba forest-steppe. The examined materials were divided in four groups corresponding to these territories. The craniological sample of the Bolsherechenskaya Culture comprised 118 crania, and the dental non-metric data amounted to 326 crania. The Bolsherechenskaya Culture materials originate from 11 burial grounds in the territory of the Novosibirsk Ob basin. All data were previously published. In the results, the population interaction of the bearers of the Sargat and Belsherechenskaya Cultures has been recorded, in which some representatives of the Kamenskaya Culture of the forest-steppe Altai were also involved, which is confirmed by archaeological data. However, it should be emphasized that this interaction was not so wide-scale. The Sargatka series, being located near to the Bolsherechenskaya ones, are also located in the same field with autochthonous Siberian groups. This becomes the evidence of the fact that not only the interaction in the Early Iron Age binds together the representa-tives of the Sargatka and Bolsherechenskaya Cultures. The fact is that the specificity of the anthropological composition of the Bolsherechenskaya people is directly related to the most ancient autochthonous Siberian populations, whereas the specific features of the Sargatka people — to southwestern migrants. However, an important result of the conducted analysis is that the composition of the Sargatka series retains the specific elements which are characteristic of the autochthonous populations of Western Siberia and which do not disappear under the influence of foreign migrant groups — this is the maturised structure of the lower molars.
Writing a Narrative CV
Authors:   Scafell Coaching, Adams Elizabeth ,   University of Dundee
Published: December 2023

This workbook guides you through reflective questions to help you with a narrative CV. What you write here will probably be much longer than the word or space limit that you will ultimately have in a grant or Fellowship application. It’s important that you read the call guidance each time. Think of this as your ‘master’ narrative CV document. When it comes to writing the one for the actual application, you will be pulling out the key bits of information which support you to demonstrate that you are the right person (or part of the right team), with a unique set of experiences, to be able to deliver the grant you are applying to. The examples here are written from an ECR or PGR perspective but every answer will be unique.
A Treatise on Reconnoitering the Suitability of Fuzzy MARCOS for Assessment of Conceptual Designs
Authors: Olabanji Olayinka Mohammed
Published: December 2023

The development of an equipment starts from an effective design activity. The concept selection process is an activity that is entailed in the design stage and its relevance in the design process cannot be overemphasized because it informs the choice of optimal conceptual design from a set of alternative design. Hence, there is a need to accrue efforts to the concept selection process because of its importance. This article presents the identification of optimal conceptual design as a Multicriteria decision making model by assessing the suitability of Fuzzy Measurement Alternatives and Ranking according to COmpromise Solution (MARCOS). The Fuzzy MARCOS model was developed to access four alternative conceptual designs of briquetting machines considering eight design features with several sub features. The fuzzy MARCOS model was able to rank the conceptual designs and the results obtained from the decision analysis showed that the Fuzzy MARCOS model was able to rank the designs based on their performance and the final values of the overall utility function. The overall utility function is a based on the utility degree of the conceptual design alternatives in terms of the best and worst designs identified by the model. The utility degree created a platform for comparison on how the design alternatives varies from the best and worst design.
Adsorption of Uranium (VI) from Aqueous Solution Using Melamine Formaldehyde Organo Clay Nanocomposite Foam as a Novel Adsorbent
Authors: Gürses Ahmet , Sehhatigdiri Arvin , Yılmaz Demet , Şahin Elif
Published: December 2023

Abstract: Uranium is a toxic radioactive element and is usually found in the environment in hexavalent form. It has become a necessity to remove uranium, which can enter the environment in excessive amounts through nuclear industrial activities, from access waters. Melamine formaldehyde organo clay nano composite foam (MFCNCF) was prepared as a novel adsorbent by hardening with thermal treatment. Structural, crystallographic textural and surface morphological characterization of the prepared adsorbent was made by FTIR and XRD spectroscopic and SEM and HRTEM microscopic techniques. This study aims to investigate the adsorption of U(VI) from aqueous solution by MF organo clay nanocomposite and its dependence on various variables such as initial uranium concentration, adsorption time, adsorbent dosage, initial pH, and temperature. Additionally, adsorption isotherm analysis and adsorption kinetics and thermodynamics were also examined. For this purpose, the batch adsorption experiments were carried out and the equilibrium concentration of U(VI) in the aqueous solution was measured with a UV-Vis spectrophotometer at a wavelength of 433 nm, which corresponds to its maximum absorptivity. The results regarding adsorption kinetics show that 30 min is sufficient to reach adsorption equilibrium and the data show a high fit to the pseudo-second-order kinetic model. Isotherm analysis also revealed a high fit of the data to the Type III isotherm and the Halsey model. Based on this fit, an adsorption mechanism involving two regions (electrostatic and complex formation) was proposed for the current adsorption system. The adsorption isosteric enthalpy and entropy values for the first and second regions are 3.65 and -51.02kJ/mol and 1.77 and -167.28J/mol, respectively. It was found in kmol. Experimental results showed that the prepared nanocomposite foam adsorbent is an effective and potential alternative for the effective removal of U(VI) from aqueous solutions.
Prácticas educativas en contextos multiculturales: un análisis de la subjetividad ética en dos etnias chihuahuenses
Authors: Domínguez Chavira Claudia Teresa
Published: December 2023

La opinión, tanto propia como la de los otros, resulta un acto imprescindible para todo ser humano; sin embargo, la opinión crítica, al apoyar la interpretación de los hechos, tanto en el análisis teórico como en el intelectual, orienta al quehacer académico y científico hacia niveles de certeza escasamente falsables (Posada, 2005). Quizá, por ello, la crítica, lejos de ser agradable, resulta un acto incómodo pero necesario en la búsqueda de mejores propuestas de desarrollo (Churchill; citado en: Bestard, 2008, p. 180).
Spatial Analysis and Extent of Soil Erosion Risk Using the Rusle Approach in the Swat River Basin, Eastern Hindukush
Authors: KHAN ABDULLAH , Rahman Atta ur
Published: December 2023

Soil erosion is a severe problem posing a number of adverse effects on the environment. It is a prominent hazard damaging the fertile agricultural land. Therefore, in this study, a spatio-temporal assessment of soil erosion was carried out in the Swat River Basin, Pakistan by employing the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE). The parameters of the RUSLE model are rainfall erosivity, soil erodibility, slope length and steepness, land management and support practice. These factors were developed from monthly mean rainfall data obtained from the Regional Metrology Department Peshawar, FAO soil database, land use data prepared from Landsat-5 and 8 satellite imageries, topographic data obtained from the ALOS PALSAR Digital Elevation Model (DEM). The analysis discovered that 13% of the study area experienced severe erosion. Results of the spatial distribution and vulnerability to erosion within the Swat River Basin have been categorized into different zones such as very low (59.7%), low (19.5%), moderate (5.37%), high (6.86%), and very high (5.96%). These results accentuate the necessity for mitigation measures in the study area to mitigate the loss of valuable topsoil. This research possesses the potential to offer valuable insights into decision-making and planning to reduce the risk of erosion.
Nature-friendly Approach to Environmental Pollution: Biological Removal of Dispersed Yellow 4G Dye by mixed fungi cell-CaAlj-PVA
Authors: Mayanja Kassim , Onac Canan , Akdogan Hatice Ardag , Kaya Ahmet
Published: December 2023

The
study investigated the biological removal of dispersed yellow 4G
dye in different concentrations by four types of fungi cells.
Firstly, the study determined two fungi species, Morchella
esculenta and Trametes versicolor, with the highest biological
removal rate, by examining their enzyme activities for laccase and
MnP, as well as the biological removal of dyestuff by the free
fungi cells. After 120 hours of testing, the biological removal of
dye in different concentrations by M. esculenta and T.
versicolor in their free forms was 85.86, 83.67, 72.18, 70.38,
60.76, and 84.66, 83.12, 79.37, 67.54, 60.35%, respectively. Next,
the study prepared a mixture of the fungi cells with the highest
biodegradation rate, and then examined enzyme activity and
biological dyestuff removal, firstly with the free fungi cell
consortium and then with the calcium alginate-PVA-immobilized cell
mixture. Within 120 hours, using immobilized M.esculenta and T.
versicolor cell mixture, dispersed yellow 4G dye in different
concentrations was degraded by 96.24, 88.37, 85.40, 75.72, and
59.36%, respectively. With the free M.esculenta and T.
versicolor cell consortium, degradation rates of 92.47, 85.61,
63.46, 43.72, and 38.36% were observed. These results showed that
immobilized cells were more suitable for the biological removal of
dispersed yellow 4G dyestuffs. During the study, the roles of
laccase and manganese peroxidase enzyme activity control were
examined, to investigate whether dispersed 4G dyestuff was
biologically degraded by the fungus cells. The study also varied
the concentration of dye to investigate its effect on the
performance of the fungal cells.
Venetoclax triggers sub-lethal apoptotic signaling in venetoclax-resistant acute myeloid leukemia cells and induces vulnerability to PARP inhibition and azacitidine
Authors: Heckman Caroline , Tambe Mahesh , Kriegbaum Mette , Vänttinen Ida , Olgac Ezgi June , Kontro Mika , Wennerberg Krister
Published: December 2023

Venetoclax plus azacitidine treatment is clinically beneficial for elderly and unfit acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients. However, the treatment is rarely curative and relapse due to resistant disease eventually emerges. Since no current clinically feasible treatments are known to be effective at the state of acquired venetoclax resistance, this is becoming a major challenge in AML treatment. Studying venetoclax-resistant AML cell lines, we observed that venetoclax induced apoptotic signaling and DNA damage even though cell survival and growth was unaffected. This effect appeared to be due to venetoclax inducing limited mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization. Based on these results, we hypothesized that the sub-apoptotic effect induced by venetoclax could constitute a vulnerability in venetoclax-resistant AML cells. This was supported by screens with a broad collection of drugs, where we observed a synergistic effect between venetoclax and PARP inhibition in venetoclax-resistant cells. Additionally, the venetoclax-PARP inhibitor combination prevented the acquisition of venetoclax resistance in treatment naïve AML cell lines. Furthermore, the addition of azacitidine to the venetoclax-PARP inhibitor combination enhanced venetoclax induced DNA damage and exhibited exceptional sensitivity and long-term responses in the venetoclax-resistant AML cell lines and samples from AML patients that had clinically relapsed under venetoclax-azacitidine therapy. In conclusion, we mechanistically identify a new vulnerability in acquired venetoclax resistant AML cells and identify PARP inhibition as a potential therapeutic approach to overcome acquired venetoclax resistance in AML.
SRRM2 is a target for the immunotherapy of AML with rationally designed CAR-T cells
Authors: Zhang Wanqiu , Fan Mengmeng , Gao Zhimai , Wang Huiping , Guo Jingjin , Li Qian , Liang Xue , Tao Qianshan , Gong Siqi , Xiao Hao , Li Cong , Zhai Zhimin
Published: December 2023

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a highly aggressive hematological malignancy that necessitates innovative treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes. The chimeric antigen receptor T cell immunotherapy (CAR-T) has emerged as a groundbreaking approach in immunotherapy; however, the lack of an optimal target antigen remains a significant impediment for CAR-T in its application to AML treatment. The nuclear speckle marker, serine/arginine repetitive matrix 2 (SRRM2), encompasses multiple disordered domains and its dysfunction is implicated in various human diseases.
Methods: We tested the expression of SRRM2 antigen on peripheral blood cells and bone marrow cells AML patients. The clinical data of patients collected for studying the correlation between SRRM2 expression and clinical parameters. Then, a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) containing a SRRM2-specific single-chain variable fragment, in combination with CD28, 4-1BB costimulatory domains, and CD3-ζ signaling domain was developed. LDH release assay was used to evaluate the in vitro cytotoxicity of the SRRM2 CAR-T cells. An AML mouse model of SKM-1 was established to evaluate the in vivo anti-leukemic activity of the SRRM2 CAR-T cells
Results: In this study, we have observed the presence of SRRM2 expression on the cellular membrane. The membrane-expressed SRRM2 is elevated in AML patients and AML cell lines, particularly in individuals and cell lines harboring fms-like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) gene mutations, making it an optimal target for CAR-T therapy. Then we designed and constructed a CAR, which targets SRRM2, involved the incorporation of SRRM2-specific single-chain variable fragments (ScFv), CD28 and 4-1BB costimulatory domains, as well as CD3-ζ signaling domains. The functionality of SRRM2 CAR-T cells was further investigated, revealing their specific cytotoxicity against SRRM2+ AML cell lines and enhanced potency against FLT3-mutant cells. In vivo SRRM2 CAR-T therapy of AML mice demonstrated the remarkable safety and efficacy profile.
Conclusion: These results support that SRRM2 CAR-T represents a promising immunotherapy for the treatment of AML.
Establishment of teaching and training model for transesophageal echocardiography based on swine
Authors: ZHAO Yamei , Zhou Xiao , LIU Hanyu , WANG Zhenhong , YIN Jialin , WEI Haiyan , GE Yali , SHI Hongwei , CHEN Lihai
Published: December 2023

The education programs for transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), which plays significant roles in various surgical procedures, in China is currently limited to stimulation system and in-hospital patients. Although, existing TEE simulators have become increasingly sophisticated, the use of animal models retains significant advantages in terms of enabling dynamic cardiac monitoring. The aim of this study is to develop a better teaching and training program for TEE and establish baseline values for the porcine animal model. The thorough TEE examinations were conducted in 10 domestic porcine weighing 45-60kg according to ASA guideline for TEE. All the recommended views were explored and saved. The depth and angles of each view were recorded. Additionally, hemodynamic measurements were performed and recorded. All parameters were compared with human reference values. The porcine model is feasible to initiate a teaching model, and TEE baseline values were acquired for more development in the experimental porcine model.
Optimal Processing of Single-Channel Sparker Marine Seismic Data
Authors: Nasif Aslihan
Published: December 2023

Single-channel sparker seismic reflection systems are currently preferred in offshore geo-engineering studies due to their cost-effectiveness, ease of use in shallow areas, their high-resolution data, and straightforward data processing. However, the distinctive characteristics of sparker data introduce specific challenges in the processing of single-channel seismic datasets. These include (i) unavailability of the stacking process for single-channel seismic data, which is highly effective in eliminating random and coherent noise, (ii) inability to derive subsurface velocity distribution from single-channel seismic profiles, (iii) limitations imposed by ghost reflections and bubble effects as well as random noise amplitudes, and (iv) the suitability of only predictive deconvolution for suppressing multiple reflections. Applications demonstrate that the inability to apply the stacking process to single-channel seismic data poses a significant challenge in suppressing both random and coherent noise, and increasing the signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio. The F-X prediction filter has proven highly effective in mitigating random noise in sparker data. Appropriate determination of operator length and prediction lag parameters allows predictive deconvolution to effectively suppress multiple reflections, despite some residual multiple amplitudes in the output. Spiking deconvolution significantly eliminates ghost reflections and bubble effects, enhancing temporal resolution by eliminating the ringy appearance of the input signal. However, transforming the source wavelet to its minimum phase or zero phase equivalent is essential prior to deconvolution. Trace mixing is a crucial data processing step for enhancing sparker data resolution. The method can be applied as weighted mix for random noise suppression or as trimmed mix for suppressing high-amplitude spike-like noises.
CD3 high expression via M1 macrophages in Diabetic Patients treated with Metformin
Authors: Majidi Ghazal , Sheikhalizadeh Zahra , Majidi Misagh , Hakimzadeh Zahra , Shotorbani Babak Sandoghchian , shotrobani siamak sandoghchian
Published: December 2023

Introduction:
Diabetes is categorized into types I and II, and the occurrence of type II is notably higher compared to type I. Type 2 diabetes is responsible for over 90% of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM). Immunometabolism researches have recently uncovered that Pancreas inflammation has been introduced as an important part of the type 2 diabetes pathogenesis and etiology and β-cell dysfunction in T2DM could be caused by a more intricate network of interactions between the various molecular pathways and environmental factors. The aim of this study is evaluated the CD3 expression via the M macrophages and proinflammatory cytokines in PBMC cells in Diabetic patients.
Material and Methods
The whole blood cells were taken from 40 diabetic patients with main criteria. The mononuclear cells were isolated via Trizol. The techniques which employed for present study are Real Time PCR, Immunoflorecanc, Flowcytometry and ELISA.
Results
The result of Treated cells with NTZ and metformin showed that the NTZ can enhanced the M0 and M2 expression with 20% deference from metformin. the macrophages in Metformin groups secreted higher levels of IL-1 and IL-6 on 24 hours after treated. The results showed that the CD3 expression was increased in metformin group compare with NTZ group.
Conclusion
Present study concluded that the metformin can increase the CD3 expression in diabetic patients via the enhancing of M1 expression and proinflammatory cytokines. In addition NTZ can increase the M2 expression in 24 hours after treating the cells but don’t have ability to increase the proinflammatory cytokines expression like Metformin.
In situ photocatalytic strain evolution of a single Au nanoparticle in Au/TiO2 heterostructures
Authors: Lee Joonseok , Park Sunghyun , Kim Sukyoung , Park Jae Whan , Kim Seunghee , Cha Wonsuk
Published: December 2023

Photocatalysis is a promising technique due to its capacity to efficiently harvest solar energy and its potential to address the global energy crisis. However, the structure-activity relationships of photocatalyst during wavelength-dependent photocatalytic reactions remains largely unexplored because it is difficult to measure under operating conditions. In this study, for the first time, we investigate the photocatalytic strain evolution of a single Au nanoparticle (AuNP) supported on TiO2 film by combining three-dimensional (3D) Bragg coherent X-ray diffraction imaging with an external light source. The wavelength-dependent generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) had significant effects on the structural deformation of the AuNP, leading to its strain evolution. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations are employed to rationalize the induced strain caused by the adsorption of ROS on the AuNP surface. These observations provide valuable insights of how the photocatalytic activity impacts on the structural deformation of AuNP, contributing to the general understanding of the atomic-level catalytic adsorption process.
Shape influence of β-MnO2 on catalytic activity in the oxygen reduction reaction in alkaline media
Authors: Cruz-Reyes Iván , Trujillo-Navarrete Balter , Félix-Navarro Rosa María , Paraguay-Delgado Francisco
Published: December 2023

The catalytic activity of the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) is important in energy conversion devices. Transition metal oxides have been identified as promising alternatives. Rutile-phase β-ΜnO2 nanostructures were produced using the hydrothermal method. The nanostructures were in the form of rods, and their hierarchical architecture to those resembling a dandelion flower were compared. The microstructural surface was examined through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscope (TEM), the Rietveld refinement technique, and surface area analysis, while the oxidation states were determined using X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy-Ultraviolet Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS-UPS). Both nanostructures were evaluated as catalysts for the ORR in alkaline environments. The results suggest that introducing shape increased the specific surface area and the Mn4+/Mn3+ ratio. This change can be attributed to the observed microstructural changes. The ORR was facilitated by a four-electron mechanism, increasing current density. This enhancement was observed in nanocrystalline β-MnO2, as well as in rod-shaped and dandelion-shaped structures. The production rates of H2O2 were determined using a rotating ring-disk electrode (RRDE). Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production was less than 20% in dandelion structures compared to β-MnO2 nanorods. This study enhances our understanding of β-ΜnO2 catalysts and highlights their significant potential in energy conversion, particularly in alkaline anion-exchange membrane fuel cells (AEMFCs).
Plasma exosome microRNA-155-3p expression in patients with metastatic renal cell carcinoma treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors: a potential biomarker of response to systemic therapy
Authors: Soleimani Maryam , Thi Marisa , Janfaza Sajjad , Ozcan Gizem , Ozgun Guliz , Maurice-Dror Corinne , Eigl Bernhard , Chi Kim , Kollmannsberger Christian , Nappi Lucia
Published: December 2023

Predictive biomarkers of response to immune checkpoint-based therapies (ICI) remain a critically unmet need in the management of advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). The complex interplay of the tumour microenvironment and components of the circulating immune response has proven to be challenging to decipher. MicroRNAs have gained increasing attention for their role in post-transcriptional gene expression regulation, particularly because they can have immunomodulatory properties. We evaluated the presence of immune-specific exosomal microRNAs in the plasma of patients with metastatic RCC (mRCC) prior to initiation of ICI. We found significantly lower levels of microRNA155-3p (miR155) in responders to ICI, when compared to non-responders. This microRNA has unique immunomodulatory properties, thus providing potential biological rationale for our findings. Our results support further work in exploring microRNAs as potential biomarkers of response to immunotherapy.
Optimizing Sustainability: A Deep Learning Approach on Data Augmentation of Indonesia Palm Oil Products Emission
Authors: Tahyudin Imam , Tikaningsih Ades , Suryana Yaya , Nugroho Hanung Adi , Nurhopipah Ade , Sasongko Nugroho Adi , Bejo Agus , Lestari Puji , Yanuar Ahmad Ismed
Published: December 2023

Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) is a widely used methodology for quantifying the environmental impacts of products, including the carbon footprint. However, conducting LCA studies for complex systems, such as the palm oil industry in Indonesia, can be challenging due to limited data availability. This study proposes a novel approach called the Anonymization Through Data Synthesis (ADS-GAN) based on a deep learning approach to augment carbon footprint data for LCA assessments of palm oil products in Indonesia. This approach addresses the data size limitation and enhances the comprehensiveness of carbon footprint assessments. An original dataset comprising information on various palm oil life cycle stages, including plantation operations, milling, refining, transportation, and waste management. The number of original data is 195 obtained from the Sustainable Production Systems and Life Assessment Research Centre of Indonesia's National Innovation Research Agency (BRIN). To measure the performance of prediction accuracy, this study used regression models: Random Forest Regressor (RFR), Gradient Boosting Regressor (GBR), and Adaptive Boosting Regressor (ABR). The best-augmented data size is 1000 data. In addition, the best algorithm is the Random Forest Regressor, resulting in the MAE, MSE, and MSLE values are 0.0031, 6.127072889081567e-05, and 5.838479552074619e-05 respectively. The proposed ADS-GAN offers a valuable tool for LCA practitioners and decision-makers in the palm oil industry to conduct more accurate and comprehensive carbon footprint assessments. By augmenting the dataset, this technique enables a better understanding of the environmental impacts of palm oil products, facilitating informed decision-making and the development of sustainable practices.
Effect of Counseling Model on Diabetic Women Regarding Sexual Dysfunction: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Abdelkhaliek Nermen Awad Atia , Ramadan Soad Abdelsalam , Ibrahim Seham Shehata , Ramadan Maha , Elhoda Nour
Published: December 2023

Background: Complications of diabetes in women have adverse effects on their self-image, quality of life, health, and other social relationships, thereby leading to sexual dysfunction. maternity nurse care can play a critical role in assessing the knowledge about needs for sexual health.
Aim: The present study aims to evaluate the effect of the counseling model on female patients with diabetes regarding sexual dysfunction.
Method: A quasi-experimental research design was used to conduct the study at the diabetic and obstetric outpatient clinic in 2 hospitals (Al Salam Port Said General Hospital, Elzohor General Hospital), and in five centers in Port Said City (El-Kuwait Center, Othman Ibnafan Center, El-arab 1 center, El-manakh center, El-arab2 center). A purposive sample of 178 female diabetic patients was included in the study. Two tools were used for collecting data consisted of; (1 interview questionnaire sheet) including personal characteristics, medical history, and present sexual problem of the studied female patients, (and 2 female sexual function index (FSFI).
Results: the current study revealed that there was a high statistical difference between female sexual function in post with mean ±SD (23.3±4.1) compared to pre-educational intervention with mean±SD (19.5±3.7), while there was a high statistically significant difference among pre--& &-- post program application regarding female sexual function index (p>0.001).
Conclusion: the counseling model had a positive effect in improving the sexual function among female patients with diabetes.
Trial Registration Number (TRN)
The study protocol was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Nursing, Port Said University (code number: NUR 12/9/2021-6).
Evaluating the dynamics of digital technology in enhancing overall effectiveness of China's national innovation systems: A study based on VHSD and EM approach
Authors: Chen Wei , Song Hong-Ti
Published: December 2023

Along with the gradual entry of the world into the digital era, digital technologies have flourished and have been silently integrated into the innovation processes of technology research and development, transformation, application, and diffusion. In the countries' efforts to establish and strengthen national innovation systems (NIS), the development of digital technologies has received increasing attention. It has become a key driving force for the optimal growth and effective operation of national innovation systems. This study quantitatively assesses the overall effectiveness of China's national innovation system (NIS) using data from 30 provinces in China from 2012 to 2022, employing the Vertical and Horizontal Scatter Degree Method (VHSD), Entropy Method (EM), and coupled coordination models, and examines the external impact, internal mechanism and spatial heterogeneity of the development of digital technologies on the overall effectiveness of national innovation systems in the light of the characteristics of the digital era. The study results show spatial aggregation in the overall effectiveness of national innovation systems, with regions with high overall effectiveness clustering and areas with low overall effectiveness clustering. Second, the development of digital technology improves the overall effectiveness of national innovation systems, which is confirmed by endogeneity treatment and various robustness tests. Third, digital technology improves the overall effectiveness of national innovation systems by promoting the development of a service-oriented industrial structure and active labor market. Fourth, the impact of digital technologies on the overall effectiveness of national innovation systems is spatially heterogeneous. It is less pronounced in the Northeast and East but very significant in the Central and West, and the main reasons for this counterfactual result can perhaps be explained in terms of both diminishing marginal effects and policy tilting effects. Finally, this study not only gives corresponding policy recommendations but also further discusses the dilemmas and challenges that may be encountered in implementing these policies.
Quantitative Evaluation of Birds’ Microhabitat Selection in Urban Waterfront Environments: A Case Study on Typical Waterfronts in Hangzhou
Authors: Lin Zheru , Huang Yan , Wang Xiaoshen , Li Tianjie
Published: December 2023

In highly-modified urban waterfront environments, birds’ habitats are often disturbed by human activities. Hangzhou City is located on a major bird migration corridor in East Asia, with a variety of habitats and a large population within the metropolitan area, where a large number of bird species breed and live. To determine the ecological niche requirements and microhabitat preferences of nesting bird species in urban environments, this study investigated habitat requirements and preferences of birds in highly-modified waterfront environments in Hangzhou during three seasons (winter, spring, summer) in 2022 and 2023. Field surveys were conducted to assess the proportions of different nesting habitat types and microhabitats utilised by bird communities. Data analysis showed that tree nests and building nests were the most common nesting habitat types, whereas arbour and grass were the most important microhabitats for birds’ foraging behaviour. The study also compared the observed foraging and nesting behaviour with the ecological niche requirements of bird species. Correlation between Euclidean distance to waterfronts and the number of birds is found by linear regression. It highlights the importance of considering the ecological niche requirements and microhabitat preferences of birds when planning and designing urban waterfronts and promoting urban ecological conservation.
Transcriptome analysis revealed FABP5 as a serum marker of metabolic associated fatty liver disease
Authors: Yang Zhiyu , Zhou Junru , Lu Di , Xia Qiaoyun , Luo Xiaoying , Sun Suofeng , Gao Shanjun , Zhou Bingxi , Han Shuangyin , Zhang Bingyong , Li Xiuling
Published: December 2023

Objective: The pathogenesis of metabolic (dysfunction) associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is very complex, which has not been fully revealed as so far. In our study, the third-generation ONT (Oxford nanopore technologies) sequencing platform was used to explore the key differentially expressed genes involved in the pathogenesis of MAFLD.
Methods: In the present study, we firstly fed male C57/BL6N mice with high fat and high fructose (HFHF) diet for 19 weeks to induce MAFLD model while setting up a normal diet control group (Chow). Secondly, we collected the liver tissues of the two groups and used the ONT technology to perform transcriptome analysis. Finally, we verified the sequencing results by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and measured the serum concentrations of fatty acid-binding protein 5 (FABP5) in mice and patients with MAFLD by Enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Results: By transcriptome analysis, we found that there were 400 differentially expressed genes between the two groups, 12 of which participated in lipid transport and metabolism. Furthermore, we discovered that the serum level of FABP5 decreased significantly in patients with MAFLD, compared with healthy controls.
Conclusion: Involved in lipid transport and metabolism, FABP5 could be used as a serum marker of MAFLD.
Shared genetic architecture of Genitourinary Cancer and Heart Failure
Authors: Jiang Hai Yang , Liu Ming Cheng , Xia Cheng Xing , Li Jun , Ou Yi Tian , Yang De Lin , Dong Jin-Tang , Bai Yu
Published: December 2023

Background
Epidemiological and clinical investigations have established a robust correlation between Cancer and Heart Failure, with patients afflicted by either condition being at an elevated risk of developing the other.But the existence of a shared genetic etiology remains elusive.The objective was to ascertain the shared genetic between genitourinary cancer and heart failure.
Methods
Conducted a genetic association analysis between common genitourinary tumors and heart failure using genome-wide association study data. Identified the corresponding pleiotropic loci and genes through various statistical methods, and performed tissue and immune cell enrichment analyses for these pleiotropic genes. Furthermore, evaluated the causal relationship between them using two-sample Mendelian randomization.
Results
Identified significant shared genetic bases among Bladder, Endometrial, Kidney cancer and Heart failure. Specifically, discovered 5 shared genetic loci: rs10757277, rs1537372, rs543968, rs653178 and rs56094641. These loci are associated with related genes such as CDKN2B-AS1,ANRIL, ABO, ATXN2, and FTO. Furthermore, the genes CADM2,CELSR2 were identifiedgene. Pleiotropy was found to be significantly enriched in various tissues including prostate, cervix, testis intestinal-terminalileum et cetera. Additionally, a diverse range of immune cells were specifically enriched in these two types of diseases. Mendelian randomization analysis provided suggestive evidence for these findings.
Conclusions
Bladder, Endometrial,Kidney cancer and Heart failure have underlying mechanisms of shared genetic. Our results also suggest that the immune system plays an important role in these two types of diseases.These findings provide support for a shared genetic basis underlying both disease types and offer novel evidence for targeted therapeutic interventions against them.
No Causal Association Between Cholelithiasis and COVID-19: A Bidirectional Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Li Chang-Lei , Sun Ao , Shao Guan-Ming , Cao Jing-Yu , Wang Zu-Sen
Published: December 2023

Background: Gallstone diseases and cholecystectomy are possibly associated with the severity of COVID-19 bidirectionally, yet the casual association remains unclear.
Method: Applying genome-wide association study summary statistics of primarily European individuals, we utilized 2-sample Mendelian randomization to estimate the bidirectional causal effects of cholelithiasis, cholecystitis and cholecystectomy on three COVID-19 phenotypes: SARS-CoV-2 infection, COVID-19 hospitalization and severe COVID-19.
Results: Inverse variance weighted Mendelian randomization results from the FinnGen consortium showed that none of cholelithiasis, cholecystitis and cholecystectomy was not causally associated with COVID-19 phenotypes, and vice versa. In addition, other methods including MR-Egger, weighted median, weight mode and simple mode exhibited approximate tendency as IVW. These results were all robust to sensitivity analysis.
Conclusion: The forward MR analysis showed no causally significant impact of cholelithiasis, cholecystitis and cholecystectomy on COVID-19 phenotypes. Similarly, reverse MR results also showed no causal association between COVID-19 and cholelithiasis events.
Glymphatic dysfunction in NAFLD patient: A preliminary magnetic resonance imaging study based on DTI-ALPS
Authors: Shu Kun , Song Jia-Wen , Huang Xiao-Yan , Ye Xin-Jian , Cui Shi-Han , Zhou Yong-Jin , Han Lu , Wu Peng , Yan Zhi-Han , Liu Kun
Published: December 2023

Objective: Whether there are alterations in the glymphatic system (GS) of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) remains unclear. This study aims to investigate alterations in GS function in patients with NAFLD and explore the relationship of these alterations with cognition and clinical indicators.
Materials and Methods: Forty-three patients with pre-cirrhotic NAFLD (male: 37, mean age: 38.2 ± 6.7 years) and twenty-three age-, sex-, and education-matched controls (male: 17, mean age: 41.0 ± 6.7 years) underwent diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) examination and cognitive measurements. The DTI analysis along the perivascular space (DTI-ALPS) index, calculated from the DTI data, assessed differences in GS function between the two groups. Linear regression analysis examined the relationship between the ALPS index and Z-transformed cognitive scores. Spearman/Pearson correlation analysis was conducted for assessing the relationship of the ALPS index with clinical indicators.
Results: After adjusted for age, sex, and BMI, NAFLD patients exhibited significantly lower ALPS index and higher diffusivity of projection fibers in the direction of the y-axis than controls (both P < 0.001). In the NAFLD group, the ALPS index was significantly correlated with the Mini-Mental State Examination score (beta [95% CI] = 2.123 [0.156, 4.091], P= 0.035) and the clock drawing score (beta [95% CI] = 4.233 [0.073, 8.393], P= 0.046) after adjusting for age, sex, body mass index, and education level. In addition, there was a significantly positive correlation between the ALPS index and visceral adipose tissue (r = 0.353, P= 0.020) after adjusting for age, sex, and BMI in NAFLD patients.
Conclusion: Patients with NAFLD may exhibit glymphatic dysfunction prior to developing cirrhosis. Changes in the GS is associated with cognitive performance in NAFLD. These findings may contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying cognitive impairment in NAFLD patients.