bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A nomeaçào dos estimulos e a emergéncia de relaçoes de equivalència de posiçào
Authors: Costa Franca Ana Cristina ,   Universidade Federal do Pará, de Faria Galvao Olavo ,   Universidade Federal do Pará
Published: July 2024

A nomeaçào dos estimulos facilita a emergència de relaçòes equivalentes de posiçào? Para investigar essa questào, tres secundaristas e très universitarios foram submctidos a um procedimento dc pareamento com o modelo para ensinar seis pares associados (3 AB e 3 CB) envolvendo nove posiçòes, seguindo-se teste de equivalència.Esse procedimentofoi repctidc até très vezescom diferentesrclaçòesde posiçào. Nào emergindo equivalència no primeiro teste, solicitava-se ao sujeito que nomeasse os estimulos. antes do treino do scgundo conjunto de relaçòes de posiçào. Depois ensinava-se seis parcs associados de letras gregas c testava-se a furmaçào de equivalència. Um microcomputador apresentava os estimulos e regtstravaos dados. Ao fina! solicitou-se aos sujeitos para justificar suas respostas. Um sujeito demonstrou equivalència de posiçào apòs o teste de nomeaçào, outro sujeito na primeira configuraçào, antes da solicitaçào de nomeaçào. Quatro sujeitos escolhiam comparaçòes cuja rclaçào ao modolo diferia da relaçào de equivalència de posiçào, mesmo apòs a nomeaçào. Destes. très nào demonstrararn equivalència com letras gregas. Os sujeitos que demonstraram equivalència de posiçào justificaram de acordo com a formaçào de classes, os outros usaram urna «logica de inversào» Oli disseram que rcspondiam apenas para dar conunuidadc ao experirnento. A nomeaçào parece nào ter facilitado a emergència das relaçoes. pelo menos para quatro dos cinco sujeitos que utilizaram nomeaçào. O uso do procedimento «complexo-para-simples», a nào repetiçào de testes. O ofeito da extinçàonos testes.o tipo de nomcaçàc utilizada e a possivel nàoccndicionalidadedasdiscrirninaçòes de posiçào sào fatores considerados na analise dos resultados. Outros experimentos sào propostos para estabelecer as condiçòes para a emcrgència de relaçòes de equivalència de posiçào.
Efectos de dos programas de privación parcial sobre el peso corporal y el consumo total de agua y comida en ratas
Authors: López -Espinoza Antonio ,   Universidad de Guadalajara, Martínez Héctor ,   Universidad de Guadalajara
Published: July 2024

Cuatro ratas albinas fueron expuestas a dos programas de privación alimentaria parcial (12 horas por la noche y 17 horas nocturno/diurno) intercalados con un periodo de alimentación libre, con el propósito de evaluar los efectos sobre el peso corporal y el consumo de agua y alimento de los sujetos experimentales al término de los periodos de restricción. Los resultados mostraron un claro aumento en el peso corporal de los sujetos en los periodos post-privación acompañado por un decremento en el consumo de alimento. Se discute el papel de los programas de privación alimentaria en la modificación de los patrones alimentarios y se destaca la importancia de los estudios sobre los efectos post-privación sobre el peso y consumo de comida y agua.
Una nota sobre Psicología Cognoscitiva y Realismo Científico
Authors: Tonneau Francois ,   Universidad de Guadalajara, Tamayo Ricardo ,   Universidad de Guadalajara
Published: July 2024

Una tesis común en psicología y filosofía asocia a la psicología cognoscitiva con el realismo científico, por un lado, y al conductismo con tendencias antirealistas, por otro. En este trabajo cuestionamos la validez de esta tesis heredada. Más allá de las declaraciones oficiales, un examen crítico sugiere que la confluencia entre psicología cognoscitiva y realismo científico es más débil que lo que se supone habitualmente. Intentamos explicar porqué el enfoque cognoscitivo es difícilmente compatible con el realismo científico, y esbozamos las implicaciones de esta tesis para una renovación del conductismo.
The Influence of Internal Control Systems, Motivation, and Remuneration on the Prevention of Fraud in the Misuse of Funds in Local Government
Authors: Frendy Frendy , Pruyudo Bayu , Suratminingsih Suratminingsih , Pangaribuan Leonard
Published: July 2024

This study aims to determine the alignment between the implementation of the Internal Control System (SPI) in financial management and Government Regulation No. 60 of 2008. It conducts quantitative research by identifying indicators and dimensions for measuring variables that can be analyzed using statistical tools. Currently, there is still limited research on audit based on internal control systems in government, making this research topic interesting to explore further in terms of the effectiveness of internal control in preventing fraud in government, supported by an internal control system. It identifies the factors causing fraud and analyzes the relationship between the achievement of the Internal Control System (SPI). The sample size is 93 people in the Government of West Bangka Regency. The data analysis method uses IBM SPSS Statistics 20 software. The results of this study show that Internal Control has a significant effect on Fraud Prevention. Motivation and Remuneration do not have a significant effect on Fraud Prevention. Simultaneously, the influence of Internal Control Systems, Motivation, and Remuneration on Fraud Prevention is obtained.
Queering as Process
Authors: Aphramor Lucy
Published: July 2024

This article is a composite narrative case study exploring my experience of facilitating workshops around food and eating with participants who have a conflicted relationship with food or are confused by nutrition messages. Many of the workshops have been with queer, especially trans and gender-expansive, participants. I use a Freirean, interactive, story-based teaching style that I call ‘kitchen table pedagogy’.
 
An aim is to investigate any role that thinking beyond the binary - or queering as process - may have in helping us relate to food and our bodies in new ways that are more conducive to personal flourishing as entangled with collective liberation and hence climate justice. I illustrate how a liberatory pedagogy and queer praxis address the root of oppression by considering the provocation “How does public health nutrition perpetuate a racist, capitalist cisheteropatriarchal world view as normal, desirable, inevitable and how can queer(ing) food narratives interrupt this drive and replace it with something liberatory and life-affirming?”
Migración, economía y sociedad
Authors: Escobar Espinoza Alvaro Andres
Published: July 2024

El presente número editado por la revista científica Panorama Económico se enfoca en divulgar resultados de investigación relacionados con temáticas relevantes para las economías latinoamericanas desde una perspectiva internacional. En particular, los procesos de migración han sido una constante en los procesos de desarrollo en distintas regiones del mundo. Mas recientemente, la migración internacional se ha tornado relevante para los países andinos en virtud de que una parte de la población venezolana ha emigrado a diferentes países en los últimos años.
Human Resource Costs and Corporate Financial Performance of Listed Deposit Money Banks in Nigeria
Authors: Korolo Akuboere Salome , Korolo Emmanuel Omolaye
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the relationship between human resource costs and the corporate financial performance of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to determine whether the director’s remuneration cost, salary & wage cost, and pension and gratuity cost have any effect on the earnings per share of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. An ex-post facto research design was adopted, and the study used secondary data from the annual reports and statements of account of selected banks listed on the Nigerian Exchange Group for the period 2018–2022. Judgmental sampling techniques were employed to investigate the relationship existing between the variables. The study showed that director's remuneration cost has no significant positive effect on earnings per share of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria, salaries and wages cost have a significant negative effect on earnings per share of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria, and pension and gratuity cost have no significant effect on earnings per share of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. Generally, this study concludes that there is no significant positive relationship between human resource costs and the corporate financial performance of listed deposit money banks in Nigeria. The study therefore recommends that management should not recruit more staff and should consider retaining only efficient staff. This implies that deposit money banks should downsize their staff and focus on training and re-training the most efficient members of staff.
Effect of Digital Optimization Strategy and Communication on Employee Performance
Authors: Munandar Dadang , Winantia Marliana Budhinigtias , Narimawati Umi
Published: July 2024

Digital transformation plays an important role as the organizational strategy, including bussiness sector. Digital transformation strategy is not only about digital technologies and markets transformation, however it impacts to capability of business to adapt for addressing sustainability and business challenges. This research aimed to analyze the effect of digital optimization strategy and communication on the employee performance. The research carried out quantitative approach and survey method involving 100 employees as respondents. The data analysis used Covariance Based Structural Equation Modeling (CBSEM) that was analyzed by Program LISREL ver 8.80. The research showed six results, namely (1) digital optimization strategy was categorized as moderate category, (2) communication was categorized as moderate category, (3) employee performance was categorized as very good category, (4) digital optimization strategy and communication affected significantly employee performance simultaneously, (5) digital optimization strategy affected significantly to employee performance partially, and (6) communication affected significantly to employee performance partially. The results indicated that digital optimization strategy and communication contribute positively on the employee performance which, in a certain time, can increase the company sustainability.
Statistical arbitrage in multi-pair trading strategy based on graph clustering algorithms in US equities market
Authors: Ślepaczuk Robert , Korniejczuk Adam
Published: July 2024

The study seeks to develop an effective strategy based on the novel framework of statistical arbitrage based on graph clustering algorithms. Amalgamation of quantitative and machine learning methods, including the Kelly criterion, and an ensemble of machine learning classifiers have been used to improve risk-adjusted returns and increase the immunity to transaction costs over existing approaches. The study seeks to provide an integrated approach to optimal signal detection and risk management. As a part of this approach, innovative ways of optimizing take profit and stop loss functions for daily frequency trading strategies have been proposed and tested. All of the tested approaches outperformed appropriate benchmarks. The best combinations of the techniques and parameters demonstrated significantly better performance metrics than the relevant benchmarks. The results have been obtained under the assumption of realistic transaction costs, but are sensitive to the changes of some key parameters
Acacia nilotica (L.) Delile as New Potential Inhibitors of 2019 Novel Coronavirus (Covid-19): Molecular Docking Study
Authors: Ahmed Abdalwahab
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has created an urgent need for effective therapeutics and vaccines. This study aimed to investigate the inhibitory activity of Acacia nilotica, a medicinal plant commonly used to treat various diseases in tropical and subtropical regions, against SARS-CoV-2 main proteases (Mpro) and spike proteins.
Based on published literature, 22 compounds derived from Acacia nilotica were selected and assessed for their drug likeliness using Lipinski's rule of five and the SwissADME web tool. The compounds that fulfilled Lipinski's rule were subjected to molecular docking with Mpro (PDB ID: 6LU7) and spike proteins (PDB ID: 6LXT) using the Molecular Operating Environment software MOE.
Among the 13 compounds docked with the main proteases and spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2, catechin-5-O-gallate, catechin-7-gallate, cetechin-3-O-gallate, cetechin-4-O-gallate, and gallocatechin-7-gallate was demonstrated superior inhibitory activity against Mpro and spike proteins compared to hydroxychloroquine, dexamethasone, and favipiravir.
These findings indicate Acacia nilotica's potential as a source for developing specific therapeutic agents against SARS-CoV-2, pending further validation through wet lab experiments.
Upregulated bone morphogenetic protein 8A (BMP8A) in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) and its involvement in the bone metastasis
Authors: Sui Laijian , Cong Yizi , Liu Ming , Liu Xiangyi , Xu Yali , Jiang Wen G. , Ye Lin
Published: July 2024

Objective

The present study aimed to investigate the involvement of aberrant BMP8A expression in TNBC and bone metastasis.

Methods

Aberrant expression of BMP8A in breast cancer was first determined by analyzing The Cancer Genome Atlas breast cancer cohort (TCGA-BRCA) and an immunohistochemical (IHC) staining of BMP8A in a breast cancer tissue microarray (TMA). Clinical relevance of deregulated BMP8A in breast cancer was assessed using Kaplan-Meier online analysis. The influence of BMP8A on cellular functions of two TNBC cell lines was assessed using in vitro assays. Conditional medium (CM) collected from the supernatant of hFOB cells and bone matrix extract (BME) was applied to mimic the bone micro-environment to evaluate the role played by BMP8A in bone metastasis. Correlations with both osteolytic and osteoblastic markers were evaluated in the TCGA-BRCA cohort. Expression of certain responsive genes was quantified in the BMP8A overexpression cell lines. Additionally, signal transduction through both Smad-dependent and independent pathways was evaluated using Western blot assay.

Results

Compared to the adjacent normal tissues, BMP8A expression was significantly increased in primary tumors (p < 0.05) which was associated with shorter distant metastasis free survival (DMFS) in TNBC (p < 0.05). BMP8A was observed to enhance cell invasion and migration within TNBC cells. In the simulated bone milieu, both MDA-MB-231BMP8Aexp and BT549BMP8Aexp cells presented enhanced invasiveness. BMP8A level was strongly correlated with most osteolytic and osteoblastic markers, suggesting the potential involvement of BMP8A in bone metastasis in TNBC. Receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) expression was significantly increased in BMP8A overexpressed triple-negative cell lines (MDA-MB-231 and BT549). Furthermore, enhanced phosphorylation of Smad3 and increased expression of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) were observed in MDA-MB-231 cells overexpressing BMP8A.

Conclusion

BMP8A was upregulated in TNBC which was associated with poorer DMFS. BMP8A overexpression enhanced the invasion and migration of TNBC cells. With a putative role in osteolytic bone metastasis in TNBC, BMP8A represents a promising candidate for further investigation into its therapeutic potential.
What is the association between schoolwork-related anxiety and science literacy proficiency? A comparison between Southeast Asia and Northwest Europe
Authors: Grabau Lawrence , Galand Benoît , Lafontaine Dominique , Lavonen Jari , Ólafsson Ragnar F. , Trudel Louis , Yoon SaeYeol
Published: July 2024

What is the shape of the association between schoolwork-related anxiety (SRA; sometimes referred to as “test anxiety”) and science literacy proficiency (SLP)? Prior results in some areas (e.g., Flanders) have showed an inverse linear relationship between SRA and SLP. Intriguingly, academic anxiety showed an inverse “U-shaped” association with academic performance in Taiwan. Data for six southeast Asian (SEA; Hong Kong, Japan, Korea, Macao, Singapore, Taiwan) and six northwest European (NWE; Belgium, Estonia, Finland, Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands) nations/entities were drawn from PISA 2015, the most recent science-focused iteration of OECD’s (Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development) triennial PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) evaluations. Mean SRA and SLP, respectively, were 0.34 and 532 across the selected SEA representatives (aggregate n = 35711) and −0.21 and 515 across the identified NWE nations (n = 34601). We sorted each nation’s/entity’s dataset into five SLP levels (utilizing PISA’s own criteria) and placed students into SLP levels based on an average of ten plausible values for each individual student). ANOVA results showed Taiwan, Japan, and Korea, (with some qualified evidence for SEA as a region) to have an inverse U-shaped relationship between SRA and SLP; Finland, and Iceland (along with modest evidence for NWE as a region) had a negative linear relationship between SRA and SLP. Multilevel modeling (MLM; within nations/entities only) partially confirmed our parallel ANOVA results: an inverse U-shaped relationship for Taiwan, and the negative linear relationship for Finland and Iceland. Our Belgian MLM also showed negative linearity. Thus, our results confirmed the earlier observation of an inverse U-shaped relationship between student anxiety measures and academic performance in Taiwan (extending that finding to a science context—and further extending that finding for science to Japan and Korea). We discuss possible classroom interventions aimed at mitigating non-adaptive anxieties among students at intermediate SLP levels.
Campus microgrid protection: a unified approach against cyberattacks
Authors: Liu Huanan , Huang Long , Dou Zhenlan , Wang Songcen
Published: July 2024

When False Data Injection (FDI) attacks inject false data into the controllers of a microgrid, it can lead the controllers to make decisions based on inaccurate information, ultimately resulting in system collapse. This study presents a novel approach to dynamically adjust output voltage in Campus Microgrids (CMG). Initially, we use feedback linearization techniques to address the inherent nonlinear complexities in Distributed Generation (DG) dynamics. Moreover, during voltage regulation, controllers and sensors may be susceptible to FDI attacks. To address this, an elastic follower observer is introduced to mitigate the impact of false information injection attacks on voltage coordination, thus ensuring the robustness and stability of the system. Notably, our method reduces dependence on global information and fault boundaries within the communication network, thereby enhancing system elasticity and efficiency. In conclusion, through comprehensive simulation experiments, we evaluate the effectiveness and performance of our proposed strategy. The simulation results validate the success of our approach in voltage regulation and its efficiency in fault management. These findings bear significant implications for the advancement of voltage regulation strategies in distributed generation systems.
Research on spatial patterns of soil erosion in wind erosion region based on the revised wind erosion equation and partial least squares regression
Authors: Huang Xu-Dong , Li Yue-Jia , Han Pei-Pei , Zheng Ran , Yan Hua-Jie , Zhao Pan-Pan , Zhang Xiao-Li , Feng Li-Li , Wang Dong , Zeng Feng-Juan
Published: July 2024

Understanding the complex influencing factors of soil erosion is critical for maintaining regional ecological security. The revised wind erosion equation (RWEQ) and partial least squares regression (PLSR) model were used to reveal the primary factors affecting soil erosion. Based on the results of the RWEQ model, the wind erosion area was 8,439.3 km2 in 2018, accounting for 54.3% of the total planning area, and mild erosion, moderate erosion, intense erosion, very intense erosion, and fierce erosion accounted for 18.22%, 11.43%, 11.78%, 10.16%, and 2.74% of the total planning area, respectively. Based on the results of the PLSR model, the results indicate that the proportion of mining land, meteorological indicators, and mean square deviation of slope difference were positively correlated with the soil erosion area, intensity, and severity, respectively. The proportion of grassland and forest land was negatively correlated with the soil erosion area, intensity, and severity. The mean square deviation of slope difference, the mean square deviation of difference in elevation, and the proportion of urban land use contributed the most to the soil erosion severity index, with variable importance in projection (VIP) scores of 1.55, 1.44 and 1.43, respectively. The mean square deviation of slope difference, the proportion of urban land, and the mean square deviation of difference in elevation contributed the most to the soil erosion area, with VIP scores of 1.53, 1.26 and 1.24, respectively. The results provide new insights into wind erosion and the influences of weather conditions and human influences, which can guide regional soil and water conservation planning in wind erosion regions.
Effects of aftercrop tomato and maize on the soil microenvironment and microbial diversity in a long-term cotton continuous cropping field
Authors: Han Shouyan , Ji Xiaohui , Huang Liwen , Liu Gaijie , Ye Jingyi , Wang Aiying
Published: July 2024

Long-term continuous cropping affects the soil microecological community and leads to nutrient imbalances, which reduces crop yields, and crop rotation can increase soil productivity. To study the effects of the cultivation of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and corn (Zea mays) on the microbial community, physical and chemical factors and the structure of aggregates in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) long-term continuous cropping soils were examined. Four cropping patterns were established, including one continuous cropping pattern and three crop rotation patterns, and the diversity of the soil microecological community was measured using high-throughput sequencing. The physical and chemical properties of different models of soil were measured, and the soil aggregate structure was determined by dry and wet sieving. Planting of aftercrop tomato and corn altered the bacterial community of the cotton continuous soil to a lesser extent and the fungal community to a greater extent. In addition, continuous cropping reduced the diversity and richness of the soil fungal community. Different aftercrop planting patterns showed that there were very high contents of soil organic carbon and organic matter in the cotton-maize rotation model, while the soil aggregate structure was the most stable in the corn-cotton rotation model. Planting tomato in continuous cropping cotton fields has a greater effect on the soil microbial community than planting maize. Therefore, according to the characteristics of different succeeding crop planting patterns, the damage of continuous cropping of cotton to the soil microenvironment can be alleviated directionally, which will enable the sustainable development of cotton production.
Revealing the functional potential of microbial community of activated sludge for treating tuna processing wastewater through metagenomic analysis
Authors: Zheng Zhangyi , Liao Changyu , Chen Yubin , Ming Tinghong , Jiao Lefei , Kong Fei , Su Xiurong , Xu Jiajie
Published: July 2024

Reports regarding the composition and functions of microorganisms in activated sludge from wastewater treatment plants for treating tuna processing wastewater remains scarce, with prevailing studies focusing on municipal and industrial wastewater. This study delves into the efficiency and biological dynamics of activated sludge from tuna processing wastewater, particularly under conditions of high lipid content, for pollutant removal. Through metagenomic analysis, we dissected the structure of microbial community, and its relevant biological functions as well as pathways of nitrogen and lipid metabolism in activated sludge. The findings revealed the presence of 19 phyla, 1,880 genera, and 7,974 species, with Proteobacteria emerging as the predominant phylum. The study assessed the relative abundance of the core microorganisms involved in nitrogen removal, including Thauera sp. MZ1T and Alicycliphilus denitrificans K601, among others. Moreover, the results also suggested that a diverse array of fatty acid-degrading microbes, such as Thauera aminoaromatica and Cupriavidus necator H16, could thrive under lipid-rich conditions. This research can provide some referable information for insights into optimizing the operations of wastewater treatment and identify some potential microbial agents for nitrogen and fatty acid degradation.
Embryonic manipulations shape life-long, heritable stress responses through complex epigenetic mechanisms: a review
Authors: Kisliouk Tatiana , Ravi Padma Malini , Rosenberg Tali , Meiri Noam
Published: July 2024

Enhancing an organism’s likelihood of survival hinges on fostering a balanced and adaptable development of robust stress response systems. This critical process is significantly influenced by the embryonic environment, which plays a pivotal role in shaping neural circuits that define the stress response set-point. While certain embryonic conditions offer advantageous outcomes, others can lead to maladaptive responses. The establishment of this response set-point during embryonic development can exert life-long and inheritable effects on an organism’s physiology and behavior. This review highlights the significance of multilevel epigenetic regulation and the intricate cross-talk among these layers in response to heat stress during the embryonic period, with a particular focus on insights gained from the avian model.
Impact of osteopenia and osteosarcopenia on the outcomes after surgery of hepatobiliary-pancreatic cancers
Authors: Wang Xiaofeng , Wu Min , Liu Qian , He Wei , Tian Yong , Zhang Yan , Li Cuiping , Liu Yanni , Yu Anqi , Jin Hongyan
Published: July 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study is to investigate potential associations between osteopenia, osteosarcopenia, and postoperative outcomes in patients with hepatobiliary-pancreatic cancer (HBPC).

Methods

Three online databases, including Embase, PubMed, and the Cochrane Library, were thoroughly searched for literature describing the relationship between osteopenia, osteosarcopenia, and outcomes of surgical treatment of HBPC patients from the start of each database to September 29, 2023. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to rate the quality of the studies.

Results

This analysis included a total of 16 articles with a combined patient cohort of 2,599 individuals. The results demonstrated that HBPC patients with osteopenia had significantly inferior OS (HR: 2.27, 95% CI: 1.70-3.03, p < 0.001) and RFS (HR: 1.96, 95% CI: 1.42-2.71, p < 0.001) compared to those without osteopenia. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that these findings were consistent across univariate and multivariate analyses, as well as hepatocellular carcinoma, biliary tract cancer, and pancreatic cancer. The risk of postoperative major complications was significantly higher in patients with osteopenia compared to those without osteopenia (OR: 1.66, 95% CI: 1.19-2.33, p < 0.001). Besides, we also found that the presence of osteosarcopenia in HBPC patients was significantly related to poorer OS (HR: 3.31, 95% CI: 2.00-5.48, p < 0.001) and PFS (HR: 2.50, 95% CI: 1.62-3.84, p < 0.001) in comparison to those without osteosarcopenia.

Conclusion

Preoperative osteopenia and osteosarcopenia can predict poorer OS and RFS with HBPC after surgery.
Observational study on stability of within-day glycemic variability of type 2 diabetes inpatients treated with decoctions of traditional Chinese medicine
Authors: Xing Ying , Li Penghui , Pang Guoming , Zhao Hui , Wen Tiancai
Published: July 2024

Background

Within-day glycemic variability (GV), characterized by frequent and significant fluctuations in blood glucose levels, is a growing concern in hospitalized patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It is associated with an increased risk of hypoglycemia and potentially higher long-term mortality rates. Robust clinical evidence is needed to determine whether traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) decoctions can be a beneficial addition to the management of within-day GV in this patient population.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized data from adult inpatients diagnosed with T2DM admitted to the Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital of Kaifeng. The primary outcome investigated was the association between the use of TCM decoctions and improved stability of within-day GV. Blood glucose variability was assessed using the standard deviation of blood glucose values (SDBG). For each patient, the total number of hospitalization days with SDBG below 2 mmol/L was calculated to represent within-day GV stability. Hospitalization duration served as the secondary outcome, compared between patients receiving TCM decoctions and those who did not. The primary analysis employed a multivariable logistic regression model, with propensity score matching to account for potential confounding variables.

Results

A total of 1,360 patients were included in the final analysis. The use of TCM decoctions was significantly associated with enhanced stability of within-day GV (OR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.34–2.33, P < 0.01). This association was most prominent in patients with a diagnosis of deficiency syndrome (predominantly qi-yin deficiency, accounting for 74.8% of cases) and a disease duration of less than 5 years (OR = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.21–4.29, P = 0.03). However, TCM decoctions did not exert a statistically significant effect on hospitalization duration among patients with T2DM (OR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.91–1.01, P = 0.22).

Conclusion

This study suggests that TCM decoctions may be effective in improving within-day GV stability in hospitalized patients with T2DM. This effect appears to be most pronounced in patients diagnosed with deficiency syndrome, particularly those with qi-yin deficiency and a shorter disease course. Further investigation is warranted to confirm these findings and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Leonurine: a comprehensive review of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and toxicology
Authors: Liu Siyu , Sun Chen , Tang Hailin , Peng Cheng , Peng Fu
Published: July 2024

Leonurine is an alkaloid unique to the Leonurus genus, which has many biological activities, such as uterine contraction, anti-inflammation, anti-oxidation, regulation of cell apoptosis, anti-tumor, angiogenesis, anti-platelet aggregation, and inhibition of vasoconstriction. This paper summarizes the extraction methods, synthetic pathways, biosynthetic mechanisms, pharmacokinetic properties, pharmacological effects in various diseases, toxicology, and clinical trials of leonurine. To facilitate a successful transition into clinical application, intensified efforts are required in several key areas: structural modifications of leonurine to optimize its properties, comprehensive pharmacokinetic assessments to understand its behavior within the body, thorough mechanistic studies to elucidate how it works at the molecular level, rigorous safety evaluations and toxicological investigations to ensure patient wellbeing, and meticulously conducted clinical trials to validate its efficacy and safety profile.
Recent advances and applications of nitroreductase activable agents for tumor theranostic
Authors: Shang Baoxin , Yu Zongjiang , Wang Zhengdan
Published: July 2024

Nitroreductase activable agents offer a personalized and targeted approach to cancer theranostics by selectively activating prodrugs within the tumor microenvironment. These agents enable non-invasive tumor imaging, image-guided drug delivery, and real-time treatment monitoring. By leveraging the enzymatic action of tumor-specific nitroreductase enzymes, cytotoxic drugs are delivered directly to cancer cells while minimizing systemic toxicity. This review highlights the key features, mechanisms of action, diagnostic applications, therapeutic potentials, and future directions of nitroreductase activable agents for tumor theranostics. Integration with imaging modalities, advanced drug delivery systems, immunotherapy combinations, and theranostic biomarkers shows promise for optimizing treatment outcomes and improving patient survival in oncology. Continued research and innovation in this field are crucial for advancing novel theranostic strategies and enhancing patient care. Nitroreductase activable agents represent a promising avenue for personalized cancer therapy and have the potential to transform cancer diagnosis and treatment approaches.
The dark side of mental toughness: a meta-analysis of the relationship between the dark triad traits and mental toughness
Authors: Liang Taihe , Wang Xianfei , Ng Sanfan , Xu Xuefeng , Ning Ziheng
Published: July 2024

Introduction

This meta-analysis investigates the relationships between the Dark Triad personality traits (narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy) and mental toughness. Previous research has shown mixed results regarding the influence of these traits on mental toughness. The objective of this meta-analysis is to synthesize existing literature and provide a comprehensive understanding of how Dark Triad traits correlate with mental toughness.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted in 7 databases, Data were extracted by correlation and analyzed using a random-effects model.

Results

The results yielding 27 effect sizes with a total of 12,378 participants, revealed a significant moderate positive association between narcissism and mental toughness (r = 0.327, p < 0.001), suggesting that individuals with higher levels of narcissism tend to exhibit greater mental toughness. However, no significant associations were found between Machiavellianism (r = 0.023, p = 0.719) or psychopathy (r = −0.022, p = 0.625) and mental toughness.

Discussion

The findings contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the Dark Triad traits and their differential associations with adaptive psychological constructs, highlighting the unique role of narcissism in mental toughness. This meta-analysis provides valuable insights for future research and practical applications in fostering adaptive aspects of narcissism while mitigating its potential maladaptive consequences.
Is the acquired hypothyroidism a risk factor for developing psychiatric disorders?
Authors: Osnaya-Brizuela Norma , Valenzuela-Peraza Armando , Santamaría-del Ángel Daniel , García-Martínez Yuliana , Pacheco-Rosado Jorge , Pérez-Sánchez Gilberto , Sánchez-Huerta Karla
Published: July 2024

Hypothyroidism is a prevalent thyroid condition in which the thyroid gland fails to secrete an adequate amount of thyroid hormone into the bloodstream. This condition may develop due to genetic or acquired factors. The most frequent cause of acquired hypothyroidism is chronic autoimmune thyroiditis, also known as Hashimoto’s disease. Acquired hypothyroidism is diagnosed when patients present with overt hypothyroidism (also known as clinical hypothyroidism), as they exhibit increased TSH and decreased T3 and T4 serum levels. This article examines the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among patients diagnosed with acquired hypothyroidism with or without Levothyroxine treatment. We discuss the available evidence indicating that acquired hypothyroidism may be a risk factor for psychiatric disorders, and the effectiveness of thyroid treatment in relieving psychiatric symptoms. Additionally, we provide critical details on thyroid hormone cutoff values reported in the literature, their potential clinical importance, and their correlation with psychiatric symptoms. Finally, we examined the various mechanisms by which acquired hypothyroidism can lead to depression. The high rate of comorbidity between hypothyroidism and psychiatric disorders deserves special attention, indicating the importance of consistent monitoring and timely identification of psychiatric symptoms to prevent disease exacerbation and facilitate therapeutic management. On the other hand, several mechanisms underlie the strong association between depression and acquired hypothyroidism. Deeper research into these mechanisms will allow knowledge of the pathophysiology of depression in patients with acquired hypothyroidism and will provide clues to design more precise therapeutic strategies for these patients.
Differences in eating habits, physical activity, and sleep patterns among high school students and their parents before and during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Alashmali Shoug
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly disrupted the eating and lifestyle habits among populations, especially among younger populations who are more prone to unhealthy dietary behaviours. However, current knowledge related to eating and lifestyle patterns, especially physical activity and sleep among different generations is limited. Our study sought to understand the eating habits, physical activity, and sleep behaviours among high school students compared to their parents in Saudi Arabia, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

This study was conducted in public high schools in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia (n = 8 schools), spanning from September 2021 to April 2022. Data were collected using an online questionnaire, distributed to all students and their parents (n = 516) in these schools.

Results

During the pandemic, parents (46.4%) showed a heightened interest in health and nutrition compared to students (32.7%, p = 0.001). Food preferences changed for 58.1% of participants; 70.0% of parents and 36.7% of students opted for homemade food (p < 0.001). Unhealthy behaviours like eating out were more common in students. Weight varied by 74.0% during COVID-19, with more parents (41.4%) gaining weight than students (31.6%, p = 0.018). Physical activity dropped more for parents (42.1%) than students (23.9%), though 30.7 and 31.6% reported increases, respectively (p < 0.001). Regardless of the pandemic, students were more likely to sleep later compared to parents (58.0% vs. 41.4%; p < 0.001), while parents were more prone to waking up earlier compared to students (81.4% vs. 67.3%, p = 0.002).

Discussion

The findings underscore the varied pandemic impact on eating habits and physical activity between students and parents. Tailored interventions are vital for promoting healthier choices during health crises.
Uptake of protective tetanus toxoid vaccine doses and maternal associated factors during pregnancy in armed conflict zone, hospital-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Kebede Bizuneh Fassikaw , Muhidin Mustofa Semira
Published: July 2024

Background

Vaccinating pregnant women with tetanus toxoid (TT) is crucial to prevent neonatal tetanus, reducing related deaths by 94%. In conflict zones with restricted access to deliveries, neonates face a fatality rate of 80%–100%. This study explores the uptake of protective TT vaccine doses and maternal associated factors during pregnancy in an armed conflict zone.

Methods

A hospital-based, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted of 357 pregnant women at delivery using simple random sampling. Data were collected through interviews with a structured questionnaire, and entered using Epi-data version 3.1, and exported using SPSS version 22 for further analysis. Binary and multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to identify significant variables for receiving protective TT doses during pregnancy at P < 0.05.

Result

In this study, 355 pregnant women were included, with response rate of 99.4%. The mean age of the participants was 27.65 ± 6.23 years. During the study period, 67.3% of pregnant women received a protective TT vaccine dose while 33.3% were missed due to escalated armed conflict. The dropout rates were significant from TT5 to TT2 (17.6%), TT5 to TT3 (11.9%), and TT5 to TT4 (6.1%). However, maternal associated factors for the uptake of the TT protective vaccine dose were identified, including being aged 36–49 years [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.7; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.54–7.8; P = 0.001], completing high school (AOR = 3.05; 95% CI 1.5–8.9; P = 0.02), having an antenatal care follow-up (AOR = 9.4; 95% CI 2.9–24.3; P = 0.001), previous media exposure (AOR = 15.5; 95% CI 7.5–25.3; P = 0.001), and good maternal knowledge (AOR = 2.7; 95% CI 1.8–4.9; P = 0.02).

Conclusion

The uptake of the protective TT vaccine dose among pregnant women in a continued armed conflict area was low compared with previous study findings. Efforts should be made to increase vaccine uptake and reduce dropout rates by addressing both community and individual-level factors.
Nitrogen recovery from intensive livestock farms using a simplified ammonia stripping process
Authors: Finzi Alberto , Ferrari Omar , Riva Elisabetta , Provolo Giorgio
Published: July 2024

The ammonia (NH3) stripping process can recover nitrogen (N) from slurry and digestates as a mineral fertilizer, but it is currently expensive and difficult to manage at the farm level. Hence, a simple process is required. This study aimed to test a modular (based on farm N surplus) slow-release NH3 stripping process at a pilot plant scale. NH3 volatilization was promoted in a closed reactor, and then, the NH3 was removed by an air stream through the reactor headspace. The NH3-loaded air was purified in a scrubber, where NH3 reacted with sulfuric acid to form ammonium sulfate (AS). In total, 11 trials were conducted using pig slurry, dairy cattle slurry, and digestates: 7 trials were carried out with the reactors heated to 40°C, 2 trials were carried out at an ambient temperature, and the other 2 trials were carried out with the addition of sodium hydroxide (NaOH). To assess the technical–economic sustainability of the pilot plant, the total ammoniacal nitrogen (TAN) removal rate, electricity consumption, acid requirements, and AS quality and costs were evaluated. The pilot plant yielded TAN recovery amounts of 45% in 2 weeks with the reactors heated to 40°C, 64% in 1 week with NaOH addition, and 25% in 2 weeks at an ambient temperature. The N concentration in the AS solution reached 85.9 g kg−1, with an average value of 35.2 g kg−1. The electricity consumption, acid requirement, and operational costs in an optimized system were approximately 0.52 kWh kgN−1 recovered, 3.5 kg pure acid kgN−1 recovered, and 0.86 € kgN−1 recovered, respectively. Compared to other technologies, the simplified stripping process is slower but with similar removal efficiencies and lower energy consumption. Thus, this finding could be suitable for improving the N use in intensive livestock farms.
Optimization of the Shunt Currents and Pressure Losses of a VRFB by Applying a Discrete PSO Algorithm
Authors: Ispas-Gil Decebal Aitor , Zulueta Ekaitz , Olarte Javier , Zulueta Asier , Fernandez-Gamiz Unai
Published: July 2024

This paper presents an extensive study on the electrochemical, shunt currents, and hydraulic modeling of a vanadium redox flow battery of m stacks and n cells per stack. The shunt currents model of the battery has been developed through the use of Kirchoff’s laws, taking into account the different design cases that can occur and enumerating the equations of nodes and meshes specifying them so that the software implementation can be performed in a direct way. The hydraulic model has been developed by numerical methods. These models are put to work simultaneously in order to simulate the behavior of a VRFB battery during charging and discharging, obtaining the pressure losses and shunt currents that occur in the battery. Using these models, and by using a PSO-type optimization algorithm, specifically designed for discrete variables, the battery design is optimized in order to minimize the round-trip efficiency losses due to pressure losses and shunt currents. In the optimization of the battery design, value is given to the number of stacks in which the total number of cells in the battery is distributed and the dimensions of the piping relative to both the stacks and the cells.
Propagation Modeling of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) 5G Wireless Networks in Rural Mountainous Regions Using Ray Tracing
Authors: Ali Shujat , Abu-Samah Asma , Abdullah Nor Fadzilah , Mohd Kamal Nadhiya Liyana
Published: July 2024

Deploying 5G networks in mountainous rural regions can be challenging due to its unique and challenging characteristics. Attaching a transmitter to a UAV to enable connectivity requires a selection of suitable propagation models in such conditions. This research paper comprehensively investigates the signal propagation and performance under multiple frequencies, from mid-band to mmWaves range (3.5, 6, 28, and 60 GHz). The study focuses on rural mountainous regions, which were empirically simulated based on the Skardu, Pakistan, region. A complex 3D ray tracing method carefully figures out the propagation paths using the geometry of a 3D environment and looks at the effects in line-of-sight (LOS) and non-line-of-sight (NLOS) conditions. The analysis considers critical parameters such as path loss, received power, weather loss, foliage loss, and the impact of varying UAV heights. Based on the analysis and regression modeling techniques, quadratic polynomials were found to accurately model the signal behavior, enabling signal strength predictions as a function of distances between the user and an elevated drone. Results were analyzed and compared with suburban areas with no mountains but more compact buildings surrounding the Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) campus. The findings highlight the need to identify the optimal height for the UAV as a base station, characterize radio channels accurately, and predict coverage to optimize network design and deployment with UAVs as additional sources. The research offers valuable insights for optimizing signal transmission and network planning and resolving spectrum-management difficulties in mountainous areas to enhance wireless communication system performance. The study emphasizes the significance of visualizations, statistical analysis, and outlier detection for understanding signal behavior in diverse environments.
Data Stealing Attacks against Large Language Models via Backdooring
Authors: He Jiaming , Hou Guanyu , Jia Xinyue , Chen Yangyang , Liao Wenqi , Zhou Yinhang , Zhou Rang
Published: July 2024

Large language models (LLMs) have gained immense attention and are being increasingly applied in various domains. However, this technological leap forward poses serious security and privacy concerns. This paper explores a novel approach to data stealing attacks by introducing an adaptive method to extract private training data from pre-trained LLMs via backdooring. Our method mainly focuses on the scenario of model customization and is conducted in two phases, including backdoor training and backdoor activation, which allow for the extraction of private information without prior knowledge of the model’s architecture or training data. During the model customization stage, attackers inject the backdoor into the pre-trained LLM by poisoning a small ratio of the training dataset. During the inference stage, attackers can extract private information from the third-party knowledge database by incorporating the pre-defined backdoor trigger. Our method leverages the customization process of LLMs, injecting a stealthy backdoor that can be triggered after deployment to retrieve private data. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our proposed attack through extensive experiments, achieving a notable attack success rate. Extensive experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of our stealing attack in popular LLM architectures, as well as stealthiness during normal inference.