bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Far Eastern Awards in the State Law Status of the Russian Ruling Dynasty
Authors:   Professor of the Extra-Budgetary Faculty of the VRI of the FPS of Russia, Doctor of History, PhD (Law), Professor, Liventsev Dmitry V.
Published: February 2024

The article examines the place of awards of the countries of the Far East in the state-legal status of the Russian imperial family. In addition, attention is paid to the national history of the Far Eastern foreign policy.
Factors Affecting Acreage Response of Pulses in the State of Rajasthan
Authors: Sood Shivalika , Singh Hari , Kumar Avinash , Sethi Diksha , Sharma Komal
Published: February 2024

Background: Pulses are rich in protein, fiber and vital vitamins and minerals however, since the start of the so-called “green revolution” in 1966-1967, their cultivation has experienced a notable decrease. This declining trend in the area under pulses shows that farmers have been changing their crop selections in response to changing techno-economic circumstances. Thus, there is a strong need to study acreage reactions, which will provide important insights for developing efficient policy directives for pulse development. Methods: The objective of this research is to examine the factors that impact the production of pulse crops in the state of Rajasthan. The study is totally dependent on secondary data that was obtained from state government publications for the years 2000–01 and 2019-20. In order to achieve its goals, the study uses backward an elimination regression method. Result: The findings indicate that current-year irrigation significantly improved chickpea farming, while positive effects on pigeon pea acreage were linked to current-year rainfall, lagged irrigated area and pigeon pea yield variability. However, pigeon pea acreage was negatively affected by current-year irrigation and lagged production. Additionally, positive correlations were found between the lagged price of a rival crop (Bajra), current-year rainfall and moong bean acreage response. Urd bean acreage benefited from one-year lagged rainfall, lagged area and yield of pulse crops and lagged pricing of a rival crop (linseed). Therefore, investing in research and development, promoting rainfed techniques and establishing supportive pricing systems are crucial for boosting pulse production and meeting future demand efficiently.
Skill Mismatch : Measurement, Determinants, and Consequences
Authors:   , Bischof Stephan
Published: February 2024

Skill mismatches are highly prevalent in today’s labour market and may cause serious costs and consequences for individuals, companies, and societies. This cumulative dissertation provides an umbrella view of skill mismatches. It addresses the core issues of skill mismatch, that is, adequate measurement, as well as the causes and consequences of individuals’ skill mismatches. The dissertation emphasizes the significance of applying the appropriate measurement method and demonstrates the crucial role of different facets of education for skill matching over the course of the career. In addition, it illustrates the implications of skill mismatches on individuals’ monetary and non-monetary labour market returns. For example, the findings show that the monetary consequences of skill mismatches can differ significantly depending on the skill domain and that individuals’ subjective perceptions of the skill mismatch situation are decisive for their subjectively perceived job quality.
Only Euclidean Relativity Provides a Holistic View of Nature
Authors: Niemz Markolf H.
Published: February 2024

Special and general relativity (SR/GR) describe nature “subjectively”, that is, from the perspective of just one observer at a time (one group of observers, to be exact). Mathematically, SR/GR are correct. I show: (1) Physically, SR/GR have an issue. Despite the covariance of SR/GR, there is always just one active perspective. Because of this constraint, there is no holistic view of nature. The issue shows itself in unsolved mysteries. Still, the Lorentz factor and gravitational time dilation are correct. This is why the concepts of spacetime in SR/GR work well except for cosmology and quantum mechanics. (2) Euclidean relativity (ER) describes nature “objectively”, that is, from the perspectives of all objects at once. Any (!) object’s proper space d1, d2, d3 and proper time τ span natural spacetime, which is 4D Euclidean space (ES) if we interpret cτ as d4. All energy moves through ES at the speed c. An observer’s reality is created by projecting ES orthogonally to his proper space and to his proper time. In SR, these concepts are considered coordinate space and coordinate time. Neither their reassembly to a non-Euclidean spacetime nor the parameterization in SR/GR provides a holistic view. The scalar τ, in particular, cannot factor in an object’s 4D vector “flow of proper time” τ. However, the SO(4) symmetry of ES is incompatible with waves. This is fine because waves and particles are subjective concepts. We must learn to distinguish between an observer’s reality (described by SR/GR) and the master reality ES (described by ER). ER solves 15 mysteries at once.
Biotechnological Prospects of Thermoanerobacter AK15; End-Product Formation From Sugars, Amino Acids, Lignocellulosic and Macroalgae Hydrolysates
Authors: Orlygsson Johann , Scully Sean Michael
Published: February 2024

Biotechnological potential of Thermoanaerobacter strain AK15 to produce ethanol and valuable alcohols from carbohydrates and amino acids were evaluated in present study. The strain is highly ethanologenic, producing a maximum of 1.57 mol ethanol per mol of glucose degraded at high liquid-gas phase ratios. The strain degrades most of the sugars tested as well as starch and pretreated hydrolysates of biopolymers (Whatman paper, newspaper, Timothy grass, Rhubarb leaves, and several macroalgae species) to ethanol mainly. The strains degraded serine and threonine when used as a single substrate, producing mainly acetate and ethanol as end products, and the branched-chain amino acids (leucine, isoleucine, valine) when cultivated in the presence of thiosulfate. The main end products from branched-chain amino acids were a mixture of their corresponding branched-chain fatty acids and alcohols. Finally, the strain was also shown to use butyrate as an electron sink during glucose degradation resulting in the reduced product butanol in addition to end products produced from glucose. Thus, strain AK15 is a promising candidate for ethanol and fine chemical production from a range of lignocellulosic and algal biomass.
In-vivo hypolipidemic and in-silico HMG-CoA reductase inhibitory effects of 15-Oxoursolic acid from Rhododendron arboreum (Sm)
Authors: Ali Sajid , Ali Usman , Jan Muhammad Ishtiaq
Published: February 2024

Hyperlipidemia is an identified risk factor for metabolic syndrome, obesity and cardiovascular complications characterized by elevated levels of lipids in blood. The present study aimed to inhibit HMG-CoA reductase with 15-oxoursolic acid through in-vivo and in-silico assessments. HFD-induced hyperlipidemia in rats was developed with a marked increase in total cholesterol (58.34 ± 0.21 mg/dl), triglycerides (45.45 ± 0.39 mg/dl), LDL-c (66.12 ± 0.10 mg/dl), VLDL-c (19.34 ± 0.16 mg/dl), and a decrease in HDL-c (10.34 ± 0.18 mg/dl). The oral administration of 15-oxoursolic acid at a concentration of 30 mg/Kg b.w significantly reduced the serum concentration of total cholesterol (42.65 ± 0.54 mg/dl), triglycerides (32.33 ± 0.16 mg/dl), LDL-c (50.34 ± 0.15 mg/dl) and VLDL-c (13.15 ± 0.45 mg/dl) respectively and an increased in the serum HDL-c (18.56 ± 0.34 mg/dl). 15-oxo ursolic acid also caused a decrease in the coronary risk index and atherogenic risk index. In-silico studies of 15-oxoursolic acid with HMG-CoA reductase showed significant interaction capability with binding energy (-9.26805 Kcal/mol). It is concluded that 15-oxoursolic acid could significantly reduce the total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL levels in HFD-induced hyperlipidemia rats which might lead to new medication with significant hypolipidemic potential.
Treatment of initially unresectable local advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma with FOLFIRINOX: A prospective study YCOG1403 (C-FLAP study)
Authors: Kobayashi Noritoshi , Yabushita Yasuhiro , Mori Ryutaro , Takahashi Tomoaki , Miyake Kentaro , Sawada Yu , Homma Yuki , Matsuyama Ryusei , Okubo Naoki , Katsuta Eriko , Kubota Kensuke , Yamanaka Shoji , Ichikawa Yasushi , Endo Itaru
Published: February 2024

Background: A challenge in locally advanced, unresectable pancreatic cancer treatment is to achieve both survival benefits and a safe margin-negative resection. There is no robust evidence regarding the treatment of patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer. Methods: We conducted a prospective, single-arm, phase II trial in patients with unresectable pancreatic cancer using the FOLFIRINOX regimen. After completing 4–8 cycles, patients underwent surgical resection when feasible. The primary endpoint was the R0 resection rate. Results: Fifteen patients were enrolled in this study. This study was terminated without reaching the prespecified accrual target due to low accrual rate. A median of six courses of FOLFIRINOX chemotherapy was administered, and a partial response or R0 resection was achieved in 26.7% or 33% of the patients, respectively. Se-vere adverse events due to chemotherapy and major surgical complications were observed in 33.3% and 6.7% of patients, respectively. The median overall survival rate of patients who un-derwent R0 resection or with R1 or unresectable disease was 47.8 months (95% CI, 22.5–73.1) or 14.5 months (95% CI, 11.8–17.2), respectively (P=0.031). Conclusions: Well-selected patients with URLA-PC treated with FOLFIRINOX achieved a relatively high rate of R0 resection and had pro-longed survival. Therefore, induction FOLFIRINOX is feasible and well-tolerated for locally ad-vanced, initially unresectable pancreatic cancer, and may be effective in facilitating R0 resection and prolonging survival. This should be further assessed in future randomized multicenter trials.
Viral Infections, a Trigger and Risk Factor of Alzheimer’s Disease?
Authors: Rippee-Brooks Meagan D. , Wu Wenzhe , Dong Jianli , Pappolla Miguel , Fang Xiang , Bao Xiaoyong
Published: February 2024

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), a progressive and debilitating condition, is reported to be the most common type of dementia, with at least 55 million people believed to be currently affected. Many causation hypotheses of AD exist, yet the intriguing link between viral infection and its possible contribution to the known etiology of AD has become an attractive focal point of research for the field and a challenging study task. In this review, we will explore the historical perspective and milestones that led the field to investigate the viral connection to AD. Specifically, several viruses such as Herpes Simplex Virus 1 (HSV-1), Zika virus (ZIKV), and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), along with several others mentioned, include the various viruses presently considered within the field. We delve into the strong evidence implicating these viruses in the development of AD. We will also extend beyond these mere associations by carefully analyzing the potential mechanisms by which viruses may contribute to AD pathology. This includes but is not limited to direct neuronal infections, dysregulation of immune responses, and the impact on protein processing. Controversies and challenges of the viral-AD relationship emerge as we tease out these potential mechanisms considered. Looking forward, we emphasize the future directions the field should take to tackle the remaining unanswered questions and the glaring research gaps that persist. Overall, this review aims to provide a comprehensive survey of the past, present, and future of the potential link between viral infections and their association with AD development.
Epidemiology of Urinary Infections in Pregnant Women between 2018 and 2022
Authors: Rodrigues Francisco , Coelho Patricia , Castelo-Branco Miguel
Published: February 2024

Urinary infections are very prevalent in pregnant women and are a cause for great concern con-sidering the negative impacts they can have on both, the mother and the baby. The objectives were characterize urinary infections associated with pregnant women, study the most prevalent strains in urinary infections in pregnant women and analyze the antibiogram of the most prevalent strains in infections in pregnant women. A retrospective observational study was carried out on all posi-tive urine cultures from pregnant women between January 2018 and December 2022 at a Hospital Center in the Center of Portugal, totaling 201 samples. Data were collected with computer support, including age, origin, previous antibiotic therapy, catheterization, isolated bacteria and tested an-tibiotic therapy. The majority of pregnant women were in the third trimester of pregnancy and came from the External Consultation. The most identified bacteria was Escherichia coli, followed by Streptococcus agalactiae. Regarding the interaction with antibiotics, Escherichia coli showed total sensitivity to one antibiotic, while Streptococcus agalactiae showed sensitivity to four anti-biotics in 2022. This work contributes to the knowledge of urinary infections in pregnant women in the center of the country, being a contribution to the continued improvement of the care provided
Immuno-Hematologic Complexity of ABO-Incompatible Allogeneic HSC Transplantation
Authors: Pierelli Luca , Matteocci Antonella
Published: February 2024

ABO incompatibility is not considered a contraindication for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Approximately 30% of transplants from related donors and up to 50% of transplants from unrelated donors are ABO-incompatible. The immuno-hematologic investigationsmay evaluate donor/recipient ABO mismatch and anti-A/B isohemoagglutinins (IHAs) titration in pre-HSCT phase. Immediate hemolysis or delayed complications (passenger lymphocyte syndrome and pure red cell aplasia) can appear post-HSCT. Some preventive treatmentstake into consideration the manipulation of the product and decision-making algorithms based on the titration of IHAs in the recipient with clinical protocols for the removal/reduction of IHAs through plasma exchange or immunoadsorption procedures. Currently, the best approach in the managementof ABO-incompatibletransplant is not defined in expert consensus documents or with solid evidence. In addition, the methods for IHAs titration are not standardized. The transfusion strategy must consider both the blood group systems of the recipient and the donor until the RBC engraftment and the confirmed ABO conversion (forward and reverse typing) on two consecutive and independent samples. Therefore, ABO incompatibility in the HSCT is an important immuno-hematologic challenge and request all necessary preventive measures including the appropriate selection of ABO blood components for transfusion.
A Machine Learning-Driven Modeling and Optimization Approach for Enhancing Cassava Mash Production Quality in Cassava Graters.
Authors: Sarpong Nana Yaa Serwaah , Akowuah Joseph Oppong , Darko Joseph Ofei , Asante Eric Amoah
Published: February 2024

Machine performance modeling and optimization have emerged as crucial steps for process enhancement and efficiency. This study explored machine learning to model and optimize the cassava grating chamber of cassava grater for the quality production of gari. This domain remains unexplored thus far. A total of 196 graters were studied. Key variables studied included tooth diameter (TD), tooth height (TH), inter-tooth spacing (ITS), drum speed (DS), clearance (C), and moisture content of cassava (MC). Geometric mean diameter (GMD) represented mash quality. Feature importance rankings emphasized TH (0.488784), C (0.243284), TD (0.112682), ITS (0.103547), DS (0.036261), and MC (0.015442) in determining particle size (GMD) of grated mash. Machine learning models efficiently interpreted these attributes, including gradient boost regressor, linear regression, neural network, and random forest. The gradient boost regressor was the best predictive model, achieving 95.34% accuracy, RMSE (0.3291), and MAE (0.2303). The study provides a GMD predictive equation and optimized parameters for specific gari size production, offering valuable insights for tailored machinery in the cassava grating activity.
Anti-Obesity Effect and Signaling Mechanism of Potassium Poly-γ-Glutamate Produced by Bacillus subtilis Chungkookjang in a High-Fat Diet-Induced Obese Mice
Authors: Lee Seung-Hyeon , Choi Jiwon , Park Jae Young , Kim Ha-Rim , Shim Myeongkuk , Im Kyunghyun , Choe Hyeonjeong , Choi Jae-Chul , Park Young-Chul , Lim Tae-Gyu , Seo Hyangyim , Jang Hansu , Oh Boung-Jun , Kim Seon-Young , Park Mi Hee
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of potassium poly-γ-glutamate (PGA-K) on mice fed a high-fat diet consisting of 60% of total calories for a duration of 12 weeks. PGA-K administration reduced the increase in body weight, epididymal fat, and liver weight caused by a high-fat diet compared to the obese group. The triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, which are blood lipid indicators, were significantly increased in the obese group but were significantly decreased in the PGA-K-treated group. The administration of PGA-K resulted in a significant inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines, including tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin 6. Moreover, the levels of leptin and insulin, which are insulin resistance indicators, significantly increased in the obese group but were significantly decreased in the PGA-K-treated group. These results suggest that PGA-K exhibits a protective effect against obesity induced by a high-fat diet, underscoring its potential as a candidate for obesity treatment.
Using the Transactional Model of Stress and Coping to Explore Coping Strategies Adopted by Radiology Health Caregivers during the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Authors: Hundah Shillah Nyaradzo , Sibiya Maureen Nokuthula , Khoza Thandokuhle Emmanuel
Published: February 2024

COVID-19 has brought unprecedented challenges and exacerbated existing work-related struggles resulting in heightened occupational stress and impacted work performance among health caregivers. This study utilised the transactional model of stress and coping to explore the coping strategies adopted by radiology health caregivers during the pandemic with the aim to provide baseline data for enhancing preparedness and development of interventions to support staff during future health crises. A qualitative, interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA) methodology coupled with constructivist and interpretivist philosophical views were utilised in a multi-method context to conduct semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions among 24 radiology health caregivers in the eThekwini district of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Data were transcribed verbatim and manually analysed using the IPA framework. The radiology health caregivers highlighted resilience, adaptability and identified emotion-focused and problem-focused coping as their mostly preferred strategies of dealing with COVID-19 related mental distress. These included accepting professional responsibilities and duties, social coping, spiritual therapy, adaptive behavioural coping, escape-avoidance and solution-oriented approaches. The findings can guide radiology departments in developing bespoke mental health interventions to support radiology health caregivers during any future health crises.
Hypermethylated Colorectal Cancer Patients Present a Myc-Driven Hypermetabolism with a One-Carbon Signature Associated to Worsen Prognosis
Authors: Desterke Christophe , Dornier Emmanuel
Published: February 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second cause of cancer-related death where the CpG-island methylation pathways (CIMP) is associated to KRAS/BRAF mutations, two oncogenes rewiring cell metabolism, worst prognosis and resistance to classical chemotherapies. Despite this, the question of a possible metabolic rewiring in CIMPs has never been asked. Here we asked if metabolic dysregulations were associated to the methylation status of tumours by evaluating the transcriptome of CRC tumours. CIMP-high patients were found to present a hyper-metabolism activating mainly carbohydrates, folates, sphingolipids and arachidonic acid metabolic pathways. A third of these genes had epigenetic targets of Myc in their proximal promoter, activating carboxylic acid, tetrahydrofolate interconversion, nucleobase, and oxoacid metabolisms. Amongst the Myc signature, the expression of GAPDH, TYMS, DHFR, TK1 was enough to predict methylation levels, microsatellite instability (MSI) and mutations in the mismatch repair (MMR) machinery, which are strong indicators of responsiveness to immunotherapies. Finally, we discovered that CIMP patients harboured an increase in genes involved in the one-carbon metabolism, a pathway critical to provide nucleotides for cancer growth and methyl donors for DNA methylation which was associated to worse prognosis. Transcriptomics could hence become a tool to help clinicians stratify their patients better.
The Glycan Ectodomain of SARS-Cov-2 Spike Protein Modulates Cytokine Production and Expression of CD206 Mannose Receptor in PBMC Cultures of Pre-COVID-19 Healthy Subjects
Authors: Barbati Cristiana , Bromuro Carla , Vendetti Silvia , Torosantucci Antonella , Cauda Roberto , Cassone Antonio , Palma Carla
Published: February 2024

The ability of recombinant, SARS-CoV-2 Spike (S) protein to modulate the production of two COVID-19 relevant, pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6 and IFN-γ) in PBMC cultures of healthy, pre-Covid-19 subjects was investigated. We observed that cytokine production was largely and diversely modulated by the S protein depending on antigen or mitogen stimulation, as well as on the protein source, insect (S-in) or human (S-hu) cells. While both proteins co-stimulated cytokine production by polyclonally CD3-activated T cells, PBMC activation by the mitogenic lectin Concanavalin A (Con A) was up modulated by S-hu protein and down-modulated by S-in protein. These modulatory effects were likely mediated by the S glycans as demonstrated by direct Con A-S binding experiments and use of yeast mannan as Con A binder. While being ineffective in modulating memory antigenic T cell responses, the S proteins and mannan were able to induce IL-6 production in unstimulated PBMC cultures and upregulate the expression of Mannose Receptor (CD206), a marker of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophage. Our data point to a relevant role of N-glycans, particularly N-mannosidic chains, decorating the S protein in the immunomodulatory effects here reported. These novel biological activities of the S glycan ectodomain may add to the comprehension of Covid-19 pathology and immunity to SARS-CoV-2.
Clinical and Structural Biological Studies of Central Nervous System Inflammatory Demyelinating Diseases Related to COVID-19 Vaccines
Authors: Cheng Mei-Yun , Ho Hsuan-Chen , Hsu Jung-Lung , Wang Yi , Chen Lin-Yi , Liao Ming-Feng , Ro Long-Sun
Published: February 2024

Various vaccines have been developed in response to the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, and the safety of vaccines has become an important issue. COVID-19 vaccines-related central nervous system inflammatory demyelinating diseases (CNS IDDs) have been reported recently. We present one case of AstraZeneca vaccine-related myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) antibody-associated disease and literature review another 78 patients published from January 2020 to October 2022. Patients were divided into three vaccine groups (viral vector, mRNA and inactivated vaccines) for further analyses. Among 79 patients with COVID-19 vaccines-related CNS IDDs, 49 (62%) cases received viral vector vaccines, 20 (25.3%) received mRNA vaccines and 10 (12.7%) received inactivated vaccines. Twenty-seven cases (34.2%) were confirmed with autoantibodies, including 15 patients (19%) with anti-MOG, 11 (13.9%) with anti-aquaporin 4 (AQP4), and one (1.3%) with both antibodies. Significantly, more males developed CNS IDDs post viral vector vaccines compared to mRNA and inactivated vaccines. Patients receiving mRNA vaccines were older than other groups. Furthermore, mRNA and inactivated vaccines correlated more with anti-AQP4 antibodies, while viral vector vaccines showed higher MOG positivity. The research suggests potential associations between COVID-19 vaccines-related CNS IDDs and gender, age, and autoantibodies, contingent on vaccine types. Protein sequence analysis implies similarities between the S protein and AQP4/MOG. Further studies may elucidate the mechanisms of CNS IDDs, aiding vaccine selection for specific groups.
Ovariectomy in Mouflons in Field Condition: Comparative Assessment of Midventral and Flank Laparotomy Approaches
Authors: Frattina Lorenza , Carbonari Alice , Burgio Matteo , Giannini Francesca , Locantore Francesco , Rizzo Annalisa , Cicirelli Vincenzo
Published: February 2024

Ovariectomy appears to be the best method to control the density of wild ungulate populations. The aim of the present study was to compare two surgical approaches, via the flank and midline, in mouflon’s ovariectomy in field conditions. Twenty female mouflons were enrolled in the study. The animals were divided randomly in two groups, Group F animals were gonadectomized via flank approach, while Group A animals were sterilized via linea alba access. The parameters evaluated were duration of surgery, duration of anaesthesia, recovery time, intra- and post-operative complications, intra-operative nociception and pain in the post-operative period. There were no intra- and post-operative complications. The evaluated parameters showed a very similar trend in both groups. Both techniques are found to be effective and safe in execution.
Comparing Health Disparities in Australia and New Zealand: A Systematic Review of Sleep Literature
Authors: Etindele FA , Wilson Tété Norbert
Published: February 2024

Sleep disorders have become a public health problem for many reasons. The aim of this systematic review is to describe social, economic, and environmental determinants of sleep disturbances in Australia and New Zealand. A total of 22 studies, 14 from Australia and 8 from New Zealand involving children, adolescents and adults are included in the review. In summary, we found that sleep health disparities among children and adolescents in both countries are strongly associated to parental SES. Overall, lower family SES such as low parental income, low parental education, low SES area index are associated with higher sleep disturbances among children and adolescents. In adults, results revealed that SES determinants such as low income, lower education, unemployment, and night work were associated with sleep disturbances. Specifically, unemployment was associated with poor sleep quality, insomnia, and increased likelihood of suboptimal sleep efficiency. Low income and lower education were associated with high risk of OSA, longer sleep duration, insomnia, higher odds of suboptimal sleep duration and sleep onset latency.
Machine Learning Approaches for Inverse Problems and Optimal Design in Electromagnetism
Authors: Formisano Alessandro , Tucci Mauro
Published: February 2024

The spread of high-performance personal computers, frequently equipped with powerful Graphic Processing Units (GPU), raised the interest on a set of techniques able to extract models of electromagnetic phenomena (and devices) directly from available examples of the desired behavior. Such approaches are collectively referred to as Machine Learning (ML). A typical representative ML approach is the so called “Neural Network” (NN). Using such data-driven models allows evaluating the output in a much shorter time when a theoretical model is available, or allows predicting the behavior of the systems and devices when no theoretical model is available. With reference to a simple yet representative benchmark electromagnetic problem, some of the possibilities and the pitfalls of the use of NN for the interpretation of measurements (inverse problem) or to obtain the required measurements (optimal design problem) are discussed. The investigated aspects include the choice of the NN model; the generation of the dataset(s); the selection of hyperparameters (hidden layers, training paradigm). Finally, the capabilities in the handling of ill-posed problems are critically revised.
Nonsurgical Periodontal Care for Diabetes Patients: A Case-Control Study
Authors: María José Moya-Villaescusa , Arturo Sánchez-Pérez , Marta Arráez-Monllor , Paloma Portillo-Ortega , Bibiana Mateos-Moreno
Published: February 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontitis are two chronic diseases that are interconnected. The coexistence of these conditions leads to increased severity of periodontitis and challenges in controlling blood glucose levels in diabetic patients. Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate both the influence of periodontal disease and its treatment in patients with DM in terms of a reduction in glycosylated hemoglobin levels at 3 and 6 months after treatment. Methods: A sequential, nonprobabilistic, controlled, prospective and longitudinal case−control study was carried out at the University Dental Clinic of the Morales Meseguer Hospital in Murcia, Spain. Thirty diabetic patients were divided into two groups: patients with periodontitis (test group) and patients without periodontitis (control group). The periodontal and endocrine-metabolic variables were measured at baseline and at 3 and 6 months after periodontal treatment for both groups. Results: Statistically significant differences were found at 3 and 6 months after periodontal treatment with respect to HbA1c levels in the group of periodontal patients. However, these differences were not observed in the control group. Conclusion: The presence of periodontal disease increased HbA1c levels in patients with DM. Nonsurgical periodontal treatment significantly decreased the degree of periodontal inflammation and the HbA1c level at 3 and 6 months after treatment.
The Potential of Twendee X®︎ as a Safe Antioxidant Treatment for Systemic Sclerosis
Authors: You Fukka , Nicco Carole , Harakawa Yoshiaki , Yoshikawa Toshikazu , Inufusa Haruhiko
Published: February 2024

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is an autoimmune connective tissue disease characterized by debilitating symptoms including skin and visceral fibrosis, systemic skin hardening, Raynaud's phenomenon and other vascular dysfunctions, and immune abnormalities. The disease poses a significant medical challenge with no cure currently available. As such, SSc is designated as an intractable disease in Japan, with patients receiving government subsidies for medical expenses.
Oxidative stress (OS) is implicated in the pathogenesis of SSc and the antioxidant combination Tweendee X®︎ (TwX) has shown promising results in mitigating OS-related conditions. HOCl-induced SSc-mice are known to exhibit similar skin and visceral fibrosis, vascular disorders, and autoimmunity observed in human. In a study done using these mice, Twx demonstrated a significant reduction in lung and skin fibrosis compared to untreated HOCl-induced SSc mice. TwX also significantly reduced advanced oxidized protein products (AOPP) in serum, Col-1 gene expression and the activation of B cells involved in autoimmunity. SSc is a disease state in which autoimmune abnormalities, fibrosis, and vascular disorders are intertwined, and therefore for a treatment to be effective it needs to address multiple issues. Thus the efficacy of TwX may stem from its strong antioxidant capacity to regulate OS, which cannot be achieved by a single antioxidant on its own.
In other studies, targeting other OS-related conditions, TwX was safe and proved to be effective at prevent dementia in humans with mild cognitive impairment and to significantly improve cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's (AD) mouse models. TwX may offer a new approach to antioxidant treatment for SSc, to address multiple abnormalities that are characteristic of the disease.
The Sarcoplasmic/Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA) Activator CDN1163 Exerts Complex Time-Dependent and SERCA Isoform-Specific Effects on T Lymphocyte Ca2+ Store Functions
Authors: Uddin MD Nasim , Thomas David W.
Published: February 2024

The allosteric SERCA (Sarcoplasmic/Endoplasmic Reticulum Ca2+-ATPase) activator CDN1163 has been recently added to the group of pharmacological tools for probing SERCA function. We chose to investigate the effects of the compound on T lymphocyte Ca2+ stores, using the well-described Jurkat T lymphocyte as a reliable cell system for Ca2+ signaling pathways. Our study identified the lowest concentrations of the SERCA inhibitors thapsigargin (TG) and 2,5-di-(tert butyl)-1,4-benzohydroquinone (tBHQ) capable of releasing Ca2+, permitting the differentiation of the TG-sensitive SERCA 2b Ca2+ store from the tBHQ-sensitive SERCA 3 Ca2+ store. We proceeded to test the effects of CDN1163 on Ca2+ stores, examining specific actions on the SERCA 2b and SERCA 3 Ca2+ pools using our low dose SERCA blocker regimen. In contrast to previous work, we find CDN1163 exerts complex time-sensitive and SERCA isoform-specific actions on Ca2+ stores. Surprisingly, short-term exposure (0-30 minutes) to CDN1163 perturbs T cell Ca2+ stores by suppressing Ca2+ uptake with diminished Ca2+ release from the SERCA 2b-controlled store. Concomitantly, we find evidence for a SERCA-activating effect of CDN1163 on the SERCA 3 regulated store, given the observation of increased Ca2+ release inducible by low dose tBHQ. Intriguingly, longer-term (>12 hours) CDN1163 exposure reversed this pattern, with increased Ca2+ release from SERCA 2b-regulated pools, yet decreased Ca2+ release responses from tBHQ-sensitive SERCA 3 pool. Our results reveal differential effects of CDN1163 on Ca2+ stores regulated by distinct SERCA isoforms, prompting the need for careful interpretation of the compound’s effects, particularly in cells expressing multiple SERCA isoforms.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation Properties Study of Ferroelectric Polymer Thin Films and Composites Based on Polyvinylidene Fluoride and Graphene Layers
Authors: Bystrov Vladimir Sergeevich , Paramonova Ekaterina , Meng Xiangjian , Shen Hong , Wang Jianlu , Lin Tie , Fridkin Vladimir
Published: February 2024

This work is devoted to consideration and analysis of the application of molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) methods to the study of nanosized polymer polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) thin ferroelectric films (two-dimensional ferroelectrics) and their composites with graphene layers: 1) to study and calculations of the polarization switching time depending on the electric field and PVDF film thickness; 2) to study and calculations of the polarization switching time depending changes of the PVDF on PVDF-TrFE film; 3) to study the polarization switching time in PVDF under influence of graphene layers. All calculations at each MDS step were carried out using quantum semi-empirical methods PM3. A comparison and analysis of the results of these calculations and the kinetics of polarization switching within the framework of the Landau-Ginzburg-Devonshire theory for homogeneous switching in ferroelectric polymer films is carried out. The study of the composite heterostructures of the “graphene-PVDF” type and calculations of their polarization switching times were presented too. It is shown that replacing PVDF with PVDF-TrFE significantly changes the polarization switching times in these thin polymer films, and that introducing various graphene layers into the PVDF layered structure leads to both an increase and a decrease in the polarization switching time. Here everything also depends on the position and displacement of the ferroelectric coercive field depending on the system damping parameters.
A Scoping Review of Children, Empowerment and Smartphone Technology Regarding Social Construction Theory with the Aim of Increasing Self-Direction in Democracies
Authors: Nash Carol
Published: February 2024

Children—Dependents in Social Construction Theory—are assessed within democracies regarding their ability to self-direct their behavior concerning their associated society. In this regard, childhood represents a lack of self-direction, a life period when people require the guidance and protection of adults. The assumed necessity of adults supervising children in democracies requires substantial social resources, reducing the self-direction of those charged with overseeing children. Given that self-direction defines the optimal experience of people within democratic society, finding ways to increase the self-direction of children is an individual and a social benefit. In this regard, smartphones have improved self-direction in children. How children have become empowered to self-direct their lives with smartphone use considering Social Construction Theory—as Advantaged, Contenders, or Deviants—is the focus of a scoping review conducted on “children, empowerment, smartphones” of the following databases: OVID, JSTOR, ProQuest, PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The result is that children permitted to self-direct their activities aided by smartphone technology have comparable social behavior to adults positioned as Advantaged, Contenders, or Deviants and, as such they should be encouraged to utilize smartphone technology to improve their self-direction, as doing so will augment individual and caregiver self-direction, providing increased social benefit.
Symptomatic Coracoid Fracture Nonunion Treated with Arthroscopic Reduction and Suture Anchor Fixation
Authors: Brusalis Christopher M. , Mizels Joshua , Moverman Michael A. , Chalmers Peter N.
Published: February 2024

Case:

A 15-year-old female rock climber presented with a traumatic coracoid process fracture of her dominant upper extremity that failed extensive nonoperative treatment. She was treated successfully by arthroscopic reduction and suture anchor fixation.

Conclusion:

A novel surgical technique for coracoid fracture that combines arthroscopic reduction with suture anchor fixation can result in expeditious and durable clinical improvement in a young, high-demand athlete.
Las buenas prácticas del GREEN IT en el ahorro energético y su influencia en el costo de servicio eléctrico de un Centro Educativo Superior, del distrito de Surco - Lima 2022
Authors:   , Perez Nuñez Javier
Published: February 2024

La presente investigación está basada en el estudio de como las buenas prácticas del GREEN IT en el ahorro energético influye en el costo de servicio eléctrico en un centro educativo superior, resaltándose la importancia y el impacto positivo que implica emplear el GREEN IT en las organizaciones, el cual promueve la eficiencia y sostenibilidad energética de diversos dispositivos tecnológicos, y a ello se le suma el beneficio de preservar tanto los recursos naturales como energéticos. Estas buenas prácticas de economía verde, el uso correcto de tecnologías y procesos es comprobada en esta investigación que impacta directamente en los costos que puede incurrir la organización para la ejecución de sus actividades, así como la contribución al cuidado del medio ambiente con la disminución de Co2 producido por cada acción y recursos usados habitualmente (Rodriguez & Carreño, 2016). Recalcar que según un informe de Global e-Sustainability Initiative, las soluciones de TI pueden ayudar a reducir casi 10 veces más CO2 del que emiten (Murugesan & Imura, 2021). El objetivo de esta investigación es determinar cómo las buenas prácticas del GREEN IT en el ahorro energético influyen en el costo de un centro educativo superior, del distrito de Surco - Lima 2022. Para lo mencionado anteriormente y medir las buenas prácticas empleadas en la institución se empleó un cuestionario y la evaluación de los costos fijos y variables para analizar que tanto ha impactado económicamente, así como el cuidado de los bienes tecnológicos para su mayor duración. Finalmente, los resultados obtenidos confirman la hipótesis planteada, que aplicar las buenas prácticas del GREEN IT impacta directamente en la reducción energética, así como en los costos de la institución; comprobado en el instrumento de encuesta a 132 muestras en donde el resultado de evaluación arroja un Alfa de Cronbach para los...
ESTRATÉGIAS DE GEOCONSERVAÇÃO EM ÁREAS PROTEGIDAS NO BAIXO RIO NEGRO
Authors: Cavalcante Lima Raimundo Humberto , De Mendonça Barbosa Roberto César , De Araujo Lima Vilma Terezinha , Motta Garcia Maria da Glória , Dos Santos Costa Solange , De Jesus Edilza Laray , Nunes dos Santos Vania Maria , Manjon Mazoca Carlos Eduardo , Apoema Gomes de Souza Isabela , Honorato de Souza Antonio Gilmar , Rocha dos Santos Carmem do Socorro , Pessoa Venâncio Diego Wenderson , Da Silva Jesus Josângela
Published: February 2024

O conceito de estratégias de geoconservação engloba uma série de ações integradas e multidisciplinares que visam à gestão sustentável dos elementos relevantes da geodiversidade. Como componentes da diversidade natural, incluir estes elementos em políticas de conservação da natureza e de ordenamento do território é fundamental para garantir tanto sua conservação, como legado às futuras gerações, quanto assegurar seu uso como recurso não-extraível. Na região do baixo Rio Negro, estado do Amazonas, a geodiversidade desempenha um papel crucial na construção da paisagem local, mas pouca atenção é dada à gestão específica dos elementos abióticos e do geopatrimônio. Neste contexto, esta pesquisa vem apresentar e discutir as estratégias em geoconservação que vêm sendo desenvolvidas para o território e que contêm um forte viés na educação e no geoturismo. O diagnóstico vem sendo construído com base no inventário e na avaliação quali-quantitativa de locais de interesse representativos dos principais processos e materiais geológicos. Os aspectos da conservação são discutidos à luz da legislação vigente, tanto em termos de áreas protegidas quanto de leis específicas. A promoção, que constitui a ligação com a sociedade, vem sendo atingida por meio de diálogos e oficinas com comunitários e gestores e pela produção de material de divulgação com base em tecnologias geoespaciais. A estruturação destas ações apoiada nestas três esferas foi essencial para esboçar um panorama geral, testar métodos, reconhecer deficiências e destacar qualidades, além de delinear perspectivas relativas ao uso sustentável da geodiversidade e do patrimônio geológico na região.
RETRACTED: The combination of single-cell and Seq-RNA sequences revealed homeostatic chondrocyte osteoarthritic immune infiltrate
Authors: Han Linqiu , Zha Shuqiang , Dai Jinfang , Zhang Liangping
Published: February 2024

The authors have requested that this preprint be removed from Research Square.
The introduction of allergenic foods to the infant diet in a UK cohort: the impact of family history of allergy
Authors: Helps Suzannah , Mancz Gilly , Dean Taraneth
Published: February 2024

Background/Objective: To describe the introduction of highly allergenic foods in a UK population sample, and to determine whether the introduction of highly allergenic foods differed in infants with family history of allergy.
Subjects/Methods: A population birth cohort study recruited eligible pregnant women while they were attending an antenatal ultrasound clinic appointment at a UK city hospital. Parental-reported family history of allergy and infant diet was collected through structured interviews at recruitment and postal questionnaires. Parents reported on their infants’ diet at around 6 months (n = 216), around 12 months (n = 193) and around 24 months of age (n = 139).
Results: Most highly allergenic foods were introduced to infants at around 6-9 months. However, nut and egg were introduced much later, and 21% of children had not been exposed to egg and 35% of infants had not been exposed to nuts by 12 months. Infants with a family history of allergy were introduced to highly allergenic foods at a similar time to other infants but were more likely to have diets that avoided foods due to allergy than other infants (most commonly dairy, soya, egg and nuts).
Conclusions: As many parents delayed the introduction of egg and nuts beyond one year of age and infants with a family history of allergy were more likely to have diets that avoided foods due to allergy, these behaviours might affect the development of allergies in infants and could be a modifiable risk factor for allergy development.
Chemical Elements Analysis of Arjuno-Welirang Igneous Rocks
Authors: Zakly Hanif 'Izzuddin , Zulaikah Siti , Hapsoro Cahyo Aji , Maulida Shofi , Hasan Muhammad Fathur Rouf
Published: February 2024

Mount of Arjuno-Welirang has a geological structure consisting of volcanic breccias, lava, tuff and tuff breccias. This study aims to determine the chemical element content of the igneous rocks constructed on Mount Arjuno-Welirang. X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis of 7 samples showed the presence of Al, Si, P, K, Ca, Ti, V, Cr, Mn, Fe, Cu, Zn, Sr, Ba, Eu, and Re. The dominant elements (Wt% >10%) from high concentrations are Si, Al, Ca, and Fe. In addition, we also found Rare Earth Element (REE) Europium (Eu) content with an average of 0.23Wt%. SiO2 compound is larger than the Bromo-Semeru volcanic material, while K2O is larger than the Semeru volcanic material and smaller than Bromo. Meanwhile, the Fe2O3 compound is taller than that of Bromo-Semeru. Based on the Hutchinson formula, the depth of the magma source is determined in the range of ± 147.7 km to ± 225.1 km below the surface. Depth data also significantly affect several oxide compounds, such as K2O, V2O5, and ZnO, with correlations of .942**, − .747*, and − .936 **, respectively. The significant correlation shown is only the correlation with K2O, which offers a considerable correlation relationship with a positive trend.
Public Health Among People Experiencing Homelessness during COVID-19
Authors: Pearson Michael , Monico Carmen
Published: February 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic magnified organizational and universal issues adversely affecting health among many including those experiencing homelessness. Among homeless populations, the high-risk nature of COVID-19 challenged access to treatment, disrupts access to housing and security, and it aggravated social disparities such as employment loss, housing access and extended homelessness. This study looks at the need to identify and implement mitigating strategies to reduce and address communicable disease within shelter environments. This study utilizes staff and client surveys through Qualtrics to document the experiences of clients and staff of a homeless shelter in Greensboro during COVID-19 and when entering service delivery. The study gauged participant perceptions regarding the shelter’s public health response, their access to health and housing resources, and access to treatment. In addition, it identified the level of impact of the pandemic on shelter services and sense of safety. The study found that multiple intersecting factors influenced disease spread, such as, living conditions, treatment adherence, and risky behavior. This research shows that to adequately provide services, to ensure safety and reduce outbreaks, mitigating strategies such as onsite screening and access to treatment and care are essential. Data collected shows that method of service delivery to populations experiencing homelessness is an essential mitigating strategy and helps address risk and barriers within homelessness.