bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy Alone for Diffuse Peritoneal Carcinomatosis from Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma: A Single-Centre Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Liu Yu , Huang Qiuyi , Wang Ruijie , Dai Zhengjie , Zou Xuan , Wang Xu , Chen Yusheng , Lin Xuan , Cheng He , Yu Xianjun , Liu Chen
Published: March 2024

Background. Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is associated with poor prognosis, and the median survival of patients with peritoneal carcinomatosis (PC) from PDAC is measured in weeks. Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) combined with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has been reported to improve survival. Although performing CRS is difficult in most patients with advanced PDAC, the role of HIPEC in patients with diffuse PC from PDAC has not yet been defined. This retrospective single-centre study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of sole HIPEC treatment and to identify principal prognostic indicators in patients with PC from PDAC.
Method. The HIPEC group included 316 patients with diffuse PC from PDAC who were treated with HIPEC from January 2016 to October 2022. The standard group included pancreatic PC patients treated with intravenous chemotherapy without HIPEC during the same period. Kaplan–Meier survival curves and multivariate Cox regression models were used for analysis.
Results. Median age was 63 years. Median follow-up duration was 6.6 months. Positive prognostic indicators included gender, differentiation of pancreatic cancer, chemotherapy before HIPEC, level of leukocyte counts, albumin level, and the level of serum CA19-9.
Conclusion. HIPEC is recommended for those patients with diffuse PC from PDAC and acceptable mortality and morbidity. The prognostic role of serum markers and chemotherapy may be important in advanced PDAC with PC.
Enhancing Terahertz Wave Detection with Cutting-Edge Plasmonic Technology
Authors: Salahandish Mohammad , Bigbaghlou Reza Ghahramani , Nasiri Hassan , Pourziad Ali
Published: March 2024

This study presents a detailed examination of Cutting-Edge plasmonic metamaterial absorbers utilizing square and cross resonators for terahertz wave detection. The impact of these resonators on absorption efficiency is thoroughly investigated, focusing on the influence of electric fields at specific wavelengths. Promising results are achieved through comprehensive analysis. The study delves into TE and TM modes at a radiation angle of φ = 70°, with simulations conducted in 3D using CST Microwave Studio.
A Computationally Efficient Analytical Modelling Approach for Parametric Oscillations in Floating Bodies
Authors: Fujiyama Erik Silva , Lelkes János , Kalmár-Nagy Tamás , Davidson Josh
Published: March 2024

Parametric resonance in floating bodies presents a complex nonlinear dynamic problem with significant implications for offshore engineering, wave energy systems, and naval architecture. Addressing the computational challenges inherent in modelling such phenomena, this paper introduces an innovative analytical model that incorporates position dependence into the hydrodynamic coefficients for the wave excitation force, enabling conventional analytic hydrodynamic models to be augmented and recast into a form akin to the Mathieu equation. Originally conceived for analysing heave-to-heave Mathieu instability in floating bodies, this research extends the model's applicability to the investigation of heave-to-pitch Mathieu instability, thereby broadening its utility in understanding the nonlinear dynamics of marine structures. The effectiveness of the model in capturing parametric resonance is substantiated through a comparison with the results from a high-fidelity, computationally expensive, nonlinear Froude-Krylov force model. The proposed model boasts a speed advantage of over 1000 times compared to the nonlinear Froude-Krylov force model, while also offering the considerable benefit of facilitating analytical investigation methods. The capacity of the model to generalize appears promising, as the extension to a 2 Degrees of Freedom system demonstrates favourable outcomes.
Insights into European regulatory solutions on implementation of fat tax - a scoping review
Authors: Pitas Wiktoria , Tyrańska-Fobke Anna , Kamińska Weronika
Published: March 2024

In the face of significant societal burden caused by the consequences of non-communicable diseases, policymakers are obligated to implement various strategies aimed at mitigating these threats. Special focus is directed towards the issues of obesity and overweight, which result in substantial healthcare costs estimated at 700 billion dollars annually. Among the proposed interventions is the so-called"fat tax" – a tax on high-fat content products. The first such measure took place in Denmark in 2011, encompassing food products containing more than 2.3% fat.
The objective of this study is to conduct a thorough analysis of the characteristics of taxing high-fat content products in European countries, followed by an analysis of the feasibility of introducing such taxation under the current conditions in Poland.
The study was conducted in accordance with the preferred criteria for reporting systematic research and meta-analyses (PRISMA). Four databases were searched using two keywords - "fat tax" and "fat taxation".
Research findings demonstrated that the most significant efficacy in combating obesity is achieved through the implementation of multidimensional strategies. The paper also discusses alternative measures aimed at improving population health. Recommendations from the WHO and the EU are also presented.
The text considers various perspectives, weighing potential benefits against concerns about effectiveness, fairness, and unintended consequences. Emphasis is placed on the importance of a comprehensive approach, encompassing education, public health initiatives, and actions aimed at improving the accessibility of healthier dietary options. The paper outlines key steps that should be taken to introduce a fat tax.
OLFM4 promotes the progression of intestinal metaplasia through activation of the MYH9/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway
Authors: hongfa wei , Li Wenchao , Zeng Leli , Ding Ni , Li Kuan , Yu Hong , Jiang Fei , Yin Haofan , Xia Yu , Deng Cuncan , Cai Nan , Chen Xiancong , Gu Liang , Zhang Feiran , He Yulong , Li Jia , Zhang Changhua
Published: March 2024

Background
Intestinal metaplasia (IM) is classified into complete intestinal metaplasia (CIM) and incomplete intestinal metaplasia (IIM). Patients diagnosed with IIM face an elevated susceptibility to the development of gastric cancer, underscoring the critical need for early screening measures. In addition to the complexities associated with diagnosis, the exact mechanisms driving the progression of gastric cancer in IIM patients remain poorly understood. OLFM4 is overexpressed in several types of tumors, including colorectal, gastric, pancreatic, and ovarian cancers, and its expression has been associated with tumor progression.
Methods
In this study, we used pathological sections from two clinical centers, biopsies of IM tissues, precancerous lesions of gastric cancer (PLGC) cell models, animal models, and organoids to explore the role of OLFM4 in IIM.
Results
Our results show that OLFM4 expression is highly increased in IIM, with superior diagnostic accuracy of IIM when compared to CDX2 and MUC2. OLFM4, along with MYH9, was overexpressed in IM organoids and PLGC animal models. Furthermore, OLFM4, in combination with Myosin heavy chain 9 (MYH9), accelerated the ubiquitination of GSK3β and resulted in increased β-catenin levels through the Wnt signaling pathway, promoting the proliferation and invasion abilities of PLGC cells.
Conclusions
OLFM4 represents a novel biomarker for IIM and could be utilized as an important auxiliary means to delimit the key population for early gastric cancer screening. Finally, our study identifies cell signaling pathways involved in the progression of IM.
Molecular mechanisms of flowering time differentiation revealed by transcriptomic sequencing and de novo analysis in Chinese invasive populations of Ambrosia artemisiifolia
Authors: Yang Xiao-Feng , Li Xiao-Meng , Ingvarsson Pär K. , Xi Chao , Liao Wan-Jin
Published: March 2024

BackgroundAmbrosia artemisiifolia is a highly invasive species with a notorious reputation for its deleterious effects on both public health and agricultural systems. Previous research has demonstrated that flowering time varies latitudinally along a cline and this may have significant implications for local adaptation and the successful invasion of A. artemisiifolia in China. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying variation in flowering time in this species remains poorly understood. In this study, a common garden experiment and transcriptome analysis were performed using different populations of A. artemisiifolia that originated from diverse locations across a latitudinal gradient in China.
Results Our study confirmed the presence of a latitudinal cline in the flowering time of A. artemisiifolia.Transcriptome comparisons identified substantial variation in gene expression among populations exhibiting different flowering time, with a greater abundance of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) observed between populations spanning wider latitudinal ranges. The functional annotation results revealed the involvement of light, sugar, vernalization and autonomous pathways in the modulation of flowering time variation among populations. Furthermore, a comprehensive set of DEGs encompassed various transcription factors (TFs) associated with flowering time regulation, including WRKY, AP2/ERF, bZIP, C2H2, bHLH, NAC and MYB-related TFs. Several candidate genes associated with variation in flowering time variation were identified. CO, GAI, FES1and FD function as promoters of flowering induction, while LFY, FVE, FLKand SVP act as inhibitors of flowering initiation in A. artemisiifolia. Several previously uncharacterized unigenes, involved in the regulation of flowering time in A. artemisiifolia, were also been identified.
Conclusions The findings in this study suggest that the differentiation of flowering time in A. artemisiifolia is collectively influenced by numerous genes involved in the photoperiodic, vernalization, gibberellin, temperature, sugar and autonomous pathways. The elucidation of the molecular mechanisms underlying the differentiation of flowering time will significantly advance our understanding of the factors facilitating the successful invasion of A. artemisiifolia in China.
What is the Impact of the Therapy Capability Framework on the Provision of Physical Health Care in a Large Publicly Funded Mental Health Service
Authors: Lau Geoffrey , Chapman Justin , Bennett Sally , Meredith Pamela , Sewell Jeanette , Johnston Donni , Butler Cassandra , Parker Andrea , Wyder Marianne
Published: March 2024

Background
People with mental illness have poor physical health outcomes. Case management approaches involve clinicians operating broadly, which can genericise scope of practice and reduce capability in addressing physical health. Capability frameworks can support evidence-informed therapies; however, their utility for promoting physical health in routine mental health care is unclear. The aims of this study were to evaluate: (i) staff capability in physical health care and the association with provision of service; (ii) changes in capability and service provision.
Method
A physical health care therapies capability framework (PHC TCF) was implemented at a large publicly funded community-based adult mental health service with a case management model of service. Complementary workforce development strategies for physical health capabilities were also promoted as a quality improvement initiative. Self-rated capability in physical health care over a 6-month period, and Provision of Service (POS) for physical health assessment and intervention over 12-months were analysed retrospectively. Friedman’s tests and Wilcoxon Signed Rank post-tests were used to assess change in POS; a McNemar’s test was used to assess change in PHC TCF capability levels. Associations between profession and capability levels were examined using Chi-square tests.
Results
Compared with allied health, the nursing profession was significantly associated with higher PHC TCF level (p < .01). Physical health assessment and intervention rates were similar between capability levels. When looking at changes over time, there was a significant increase in the provision of physical health interventions as a proportion of total POS (z = -2.69, p = .007) between the first and last quarter of the calendar year; however, there was no significant change in perceived capability levels.
Conclusion
Despite minimal participation in physical health workforce strategies, the proportion of clinical services provided by case managers that were classified as physical health care, increased during the 12-month implementation of the PHC TCF. Over 90% of eligible case managers used the PHC TCF. Capability data unveiled significant differences in self-reported capability levels for physical health care between nursing and allied health professionals. Engaging in supervision using the PHC TCF may have reinforced the importance of physical health treatments for case managers. This study suggests that the TCF can be an important tool to change the workforce delivery of different therapies.
Airway epithelial cells promote in vitro airway smooth muscle cell proliferation by activating the Wnt/β-catenin pathway.
Authors: Liu Yilun , Li Jiana , Chen Rongchang , Shi Fei , XIONG Yi
Published: March 2024

Chronic lung diseases are the leading causes of mortality worldwide with no effective treatments. The proliferation of airway smooth muscle cells plays a very important role in pathological changes, and the reasons for ASMC proliferation are still to be investigated. In recent years, it has been discovered that epithelial cells, as an important type of cell with barrier and immune functions, can promote the proliferation of smooth muscle cells, but the reasons have not been elucidated. In this article, we investigated the impact of AECs on ASMCs utilizing a co-culture system. We found that AECs significantly promoted the proliferation of ASMCs. To explore the mechanisms involved, we performed RNA-seq analysis on Airway Smooth Muscle Cells (ASMCs). It was found that epithelial cells facilitate the proliferation of smooth muscle cells by activating the canonical Wnt signaling pathway in muscle cells. To verify whether other ASMC proliferation pathways play an important role in co-culture. The addition of inhibitors targeting other proliferative pathways in smooth muscle cells did not impact the phenotype observed in co-culture. Due to the Wnt pathway being overlooked in ASMCs, our paper highlights the significance of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway in the proliferation of ASMCs. Future pathological research on the proliferation of ASMCs in airway remodeling needs to consider the potential role of the canonical Wnt pathway.
The research on word game based on SIRS-ARIMA model and machine learning algorithm
Authors: Hu Junjun , Li Xiaoyan , Zhang Yongkuo , Ai Xiajie , Chen Lei
Published: March 2024

Various word game software is becoming more and more popular, such as the recently popular “Wordle” crossword game, which can entertain, develop intelligence, and improve word learning ability. However, there are little research on how to improve the challenge and innovation of word games. For this challenge, this paper focuses on the research of word games based on SIRS-ARIMA model and machine learning algorithm. The SIRS-ARIMA model is an innovative approach that combines the SIRS propagation model and the autoregressive integrated moving average model (ARIMA) to analyze and predict dynamic changes in the word game by taking into account factors such as social media propagation. This paper also uses the entropy method of machine learning algorithm and SVC model to classify the difficulty of words, so as to optimize the design and play of word games. By analyzing player behavior and word attributes, it can personalize the game experience and provide players with precise feedback mechanisms. This research provides new theories and methods for the development of word games and provides strong support for the design of more engaging and innovative games.
High performance casting film cassava starch/poly (vinyl alcohol)/clay nanocomposite films for banana preservation: Physical properties and application
Authors: Riyajan Saad
Published: March 2024

Cassava starch (CS)/poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/ kaolin clay (KC) nanocomposite films with high mechanical and barrier properties were prepared by casting film. Based on the CS/PVA matrix, the effects of KC content on the starch/PVA/KC nanocomposite films were investigated. X-ray diffraction results demonstrated that the CS/PVA/KC nanocomposite films exhibited KC good dispersion in the polymer matrix. FTIR spectra showed that the molecular interactions were enhanced in the CS/PVA/KC films with higher PVA content. The maximum tensile strength and elongation at break for the CS/PVA/KC composite films were 18 MPa and 330%, respectively. The CS/PVA/KC composite was applied to extend the shelf-life of banana and results showed that the good shelf-life of banana was accepted. The CS/PVA/KC composite film is a promising material for high barrier food packaging.
Design, Modeling, Self-Calibration and Grasping Method for Modular Cable-Driven Parallel Robots
Authors: Guo Yonghua , Chen Qihan , Han Yu , Liu Wanqun , Peng Jianqing
Published: March 2024

Compared with traditional rigid serial robots, cable-driven parallel robots (CDPRs) have the advantages of simple structure, lightweight, large workspace, strong flexibility, fast reconstruction speed, and low construction cost. However, there are still many problems in the optimal design of the mechanism, system calibration, and trajectory planning of the CDPR. Based on these, a modular cable-driven parallel robot (MCDPR) is designed and the nonlinear kinematic modeling, system self-calibration, and grasping planning methods are proposed. Firstly, according to the application requirements of MCDPRs in large space scenarios, the design indicators and performance requirements of MCDPRs are analyzed and an MCDPR is designed. Secondly, the "motor-cable-end" multi-layer kinematic equations of the MCDPR are derived. Further, the system is calibrated using a vision sensor before the motion of the mobile platform. A vision-based self-calibration method for mechanism parameters of the MCDPR is proposed to reduce the number of calibrations during robot operation. Thirdly, a grasping planning method based on visual measurement is proposed for autonomous object grasping. Finally, a software/hardware combination MCDPR experimental prototype with encoders and tension sensors is built to verify the above-designed prototype and the proposed methods. Kinematic model calibration experiments, system self-calibration experiments, and object grasping control experiments are carried out. The simulation based on the CopperliaSim software and practical experiments prove the effectiveness of the designed structure and the proposed method.
Exploring Peer Learning Module Vs. Conventional Tutorials: Effects On Engagement And Learning Outcomes Among First-Year Medical Students
Authors: V Vinay A , R Sindhu , R Kavita
Published: March 2024

In medical education, it is essential to raise student involvement and active participation in the learning process. By contrasting small-group peer learning modules with teacher-led conventional tutorial sessions, we aim to provide insights into their respective influences on learning outcomes and the overall learning experience among 150 first-year medical students. Each group consisted of 50 students. These students were further divided into two groups and a pretest was administered on the day of the session. One group engaged in conventional tutorials, while the other participated in a peer learning module. Post-tests and session feedback were provided after each session. Results from the posttest revealed advancement in both learning approaches compared to the pretest. Compared to tutorials, the level of progress was much higher following peer learning with a p-value of < 0.05. Participants felt that while the tutorials helped them cover the full subject and saved time, they occasionally got monotonous and there was little active engagement. Students who participated in the peer learning method said that while interaction aided in a better learning experience, improved communication skills, and had more active participation, there was less time for discussion and some group members were reticent and ineffective in explaining the concepts. The peer learning module is thought to be superior to conventional tutorial classes since it promises active involvement from all students, promotes greater learning, and aids in skill improvement, thus assisting students to help each other in gaining insight into the process of active learning.
Inferring the impact of large-scale aquaculture of Haliotis discus hannai in northern and southern China using EST-SSR markers
Authors: 杨 洪苏 , Zhou Liqing , Wu Zhou , Ge Guangyu , Sun Xiujun , Wu Biao , Liu Zhihong , Yu Tao , Zheng Yanxin
Published: March 2024

The Pacific abalone Haliotis discus hannai originated in cold waters, but as an economically important aquaculture shellfish in China, there has been a large-scale transfer of fish to Fujian Province in southern China for culture. Our goal was to clarify the current status of the genetic structure of Pacific abalone in China. In this study, eighteen polymorphic EST-SSR loci were successfully developed based on the hemolymph transcriptome data of Pacific abalone, and thirteen highly polymorphic EST-SSR loci were selected for the genetic variation analysis of six populations collected from Zhangzhou in Fujian Province (ZZ), Dalian in Liaoning Province (DL), Rongcheng in Shandong Province (RC), and the Changshan Archipelago, including Nanhuangcheng Island (NH), Daqin Island (DQ), and Tuoji Island (TJ). The results showed that the average number of observed alleles was 8.0769 (RC)-11.3848 (DQ) in each population. The number of observed alleles in the DQ, NH, and TJ populations was significantly higher than that in the RC population. If the NH and TJ cultured populations of the Changshan Archipelago were excluded, then compared with the DQ wild population, the number of alleles in the cultured population decreased by 22.79%. The pairwise Fst values and analysis of molecular variance (AMOVA) revealed significant population differentiation among most populations, with the RC and ZZ cultured populations exhibiting the largest population differentiation (Fst = 0.1334). The UPGMA phylogenetic tree and structural analysis divided the six populations into two groups (group 1: NH, DQ, and ZZ; group 2: DL, TJ, and RC), and there was no relationship between geographical distance and genetic distance. These results may reflect the large-scale culture from north to south in China and the exchange of juveniles between hatcheries. Different breeding conditions have led to a higher degree of genetic differentiation between the RC and ZZ populations. In conclusion, this study provides valuable information on the genetic structure of Pacific abalone populations in China and contributes to the management and restoration of Pacific abalone.
NiFe 2 O 3 @SiO 2 -Pr-DBU: A novel efficient magnetically retrievable catalyst for one-pot synthesis of dihydropyrano[c]chromene
Authors: Bhosale Lalit Dhananjay , Gurav Akshay Pandurang , Sankpal Sandeep Ashok , Hangirgekar Shankar Poshatti
Published: March 2024

In the present work, NiFe2O3@SiO2-Pr-DBU was synthesized as a novel magnetically separable nanocatalyst and characterized by various techniques like Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Vibrating-sample magnetometry (VSM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Elemental analysis by energy dispersive X-ray (EDX). The catalytic efficiency of NiFe2O3@SiO2-Pr-DBU was explored in the synthesis of dihydropyrano[c]chromenes through a one-pot three-component reaction of 4-hydroxycoumarin, malononitrile, and aromatic aldehydes in aqueous solution at ambient condition. The nano-sized catalyst was simple to remove from the synthesized reaction mixture using an external magnet, and it could be employed again without appreciably losing catalytic activity.
A Framework to Quantify the Quality of Source Code Obfuscation
Authors: Jin Hongjoo , Lee Jiwon , Yang Sumin , Kim Kijoong , Lee Dong Hoon
Published: March 2024

Malicious reverse engineering of software has served as a valuable technique that attackers can use to infringe upon and steal intellectual property.
To protect against such attackers, we can employ obfuscation techniques as useful tools to safeguard software.
Applying obfuscation techniques to source code can effectively prevent malicious attackers from reverse engineering a program.
However, the ambiguity surrounding the protective efficacy of these source code obfuscation tools and techniques presents challenges for users in evaluating and comparing the varying degrees of protection provided.
This paper attempts to address these issues and presents a methodology to quantify the effect of source code obfuscation.
Our proposed method is based on three main types of data: (1) the control flow graph, (2) the program path, and (3) the performance overhead added to the process---all of which are derived from a program analysis conducted by human experts and automated tools.
For the first time, we have implemented a tool that can quantitatively evaluate the quality of obfuscation techniques.
Then, to validate the effectiveness of the implemented framework, we conducted experiments using four widely recognized commercial and open-source obfuscation tools.
Our experimental findings, based on quantitative values related to obfuscation techniques, demonstrate that our proposed framework effectively assesses obfuscation quality.
A higher prevalence of migraine in patients with cardiac syndrome x compared to patients with cardiovascular disease and healthy control
Authors: Movahednia Mehran , Ouspid Elham , Abbaszadeh Shahin , Mahmoodi Massomeh , Dastsouz Farideh , Ghareghani Atefeh
Published: March 2024

Background
Cardiac syndrome X(CSX), is a type of ischemic heart disease, that is characterized by angina-like chest pain, without any evidence of significant coronary vascular abnormalities. Some evidence has revealed a significant association between migraines, particularly migraine with aura, with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). In this case-control study, the prevalence of migraine and the role associated risk factors were compared between the patients with CSX, CVD, and healthy control individuals.
Methods
The patients with CSX (n = 70), CAD (n = 70), and healthy individuals (n = 70) were enrolled in this study. For each enrolled subject, demographic and clinical data were collected. The prevalence of migraine and associated risk factors were determined in each group.
Results
The prevalence of migraine in the CSX group (40%) was significantly higher compared to those of CVD (24%) (p = 0.047) and healthy controls groups (21%) (p = 0.017). In the control subjects, but not in the CVD and CSX groups, the female gender was a significant risk factor for migraine. The prevalence of migraine with aura was significantly higher in patients with CSX (20%) compared to patients with CVD (8%) (p = 0.045). The family history of migraine was significantly higher in patients with CSX (57.0%) compared to patients with CVD (31.0%) and the control group (35.7%) (p = 0.004).
Conclusions
The results of this study revealed a significantly higher prevalence of migraine in patients with CSX. The findings also showed a familial aggregation of migraine in the patients with CSX, suggesting a role of genetic factors in predisposing CSX patients to migraine.
Sting Active Vibration Control in Wind Tunnel.
Authors: Alzahrani Faisal , XING SHEN
Published: March 2024

The proposal examines the impact of active vibration control with feedback control to reduce or eliminate unwanted vibrations in a system actively with development and experimental evaluation. controlled separately by both PID and BP neural network and make comparisons by MATLAB software's thorough Laboratory with vibrations in the sting can affect the accuracy and repeatability of the test results, so active vibration control can be used to improve the performance of the wind tunnel.
Submesoscale horizontal stirring enhances seasonal enrichment of low-chlorophyll surface waters
Authors: fadida Yoatm , Verma Vicky , Barkan Roy , Biton Eli , Solodoch Aviv , Lehahn Yoav
Published: March 2024

The large seasonal increase in marine photosynthetic organisms - i.e., phytoplankton bloom - is a ubiquitous oceanic phenomenon that contributes to the removal of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and that supports the growth and development of larger organisms throughout the marine ecosystem. The underlying mechanisms controlling the intensity and timing of these blooms have been proposed to be dominated by vertical transport and mixing processes that are enhanced at front and filament circulation patterns, commonly known as submesoscale currents. Here we show that the winter blooms characterizing oligotrophic waters, which are manifested by a seasonal increase in satellite-derived levels of surface chlorophyll, may also be intensified by horizontal stirring motions induced by submesoscale currents. Using ocean color remote sensing data and high-resolution numerical simulations in the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, we demonstrate that the commonly observed energization of submesoscale currents in winter can efficiently connect the coastal waters and the ultra-oligotrophic waters in the sea interior, thereby enriching the latter with chlorophyll-rich water. A comparison of climatological chlorophyll time series indicates that this submesoscale horizontal stirring mechanism is responsible for ∼ 24% of the seasonal surface chlorophyll increase in the region. These results shed new light on the processes governing phytoplankton bloom intensity and emphasize the important role of submesoscale horizontal stirring in regulating the marine ecosystem.
A graph-based machine learning approach combined with optical measurements to understand beating dynamics of cardiac organoids
Authors: Wu Ziqian , Park Jiyoon , Steiner Paul R. , Zhu Bo , Zhang John X.J.
Published: March 2024

The development of computational models for the pre- diction of cardiac cellular dynamics remains a challenge for the lack of first-principled mathematical models. We develop a novel ma- chine learning approach hybridizing physics simulation and graph networks to deliver robust predictions of cardiomyocyte dynamics. Embedded with inductive physical priors, the proposed constraint- based interaction neural projection (CINP) algorithm can uncover hidden physical constraints from sparse image data on a small set of beating cardiac cells and provide robust predictions for heterogenous large-scale cell sets. We also implement an in-vitro culture and imaging platform for cellular motion and calcium transient analysis to validate the model. We showcase our model’s efficacy by predict- ing complex organoid cellular behaviors in both in-silico and in-vitro settings.
Deep learning for insight-based analytics to improve shopping experience
Authors: BOUSLIMI Riadh
Published: March 2024

The accurate and efficient detection of shoppers and classification by age group, gender, and cart or trolley in supermarkets is essential for strategic retail planning. With the advent of deep learning algorithms, various models based on Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) have been proposed for object detection in high-resolution spatial images. In this article, we proposed an architecture that consists of two phases: a first phase of shopper detection where we conducted a comparative study of three well-established CNN-based models, namely Single Shot Multi-Box Detector (SSD), You Look Only Once-v8 (YOLOv8), and Faster R-CNN, to detect shoppers by age group, gender, and shopping basket. Transfer learning and fine-tuning approaches were implemented to train the models. The evaluation results for accuracy and efficiency show that YOLOv8 achieved the best performance in terms of mean Average Precision (mAP), Frames Per Second (FPS) metrics, and visual inspection. SSD demonstrated an advantage in terms of detection speed with an FPS twice as high as Faster R-CNN, although their mAP was close on the test set. The trained models were also applied to two independent test sets, proving their transferability and the importance of higher resolution images for accuracy improvement. In the second phase, we conducted a comparative study among the classification models Residual Network 50 (ResNet50), the Visual Geometry Group(VGG) 16 and 19 family, and Densely Connected Convolutional Network 121 (DenseNet121). We found a positive prediction rate of 99.28% for the VGG16 model and 98.55% for VGG19, with the others having a rate that is not too far off.
Meatal Stenosis in circumcised males Is it preventable?
Authors: KHAN M S , ANWAR S , BUTT K , MANNAN A , TASNEEM R A
Published: March 2024

Meatal stenosis is most commonly seen among the circumcised males. The true incidence of this post circumcision complication is not known. The most favored hypothesis regarding the etiology is ammoniacal fumes produced in the wet diapers which cause meatitis of unprotected glans. It is treated by meatoplasty. 26 pediatric patients suffering from meatal stenosis were treated between Jan. 2003 and Dec. 2005 both inclusive (Mean age was 4.36 years and ranging 2 - 10) and mean follow up was 4 months. Patients were studied for presenting symptoms, size of meatus, perimeatal balanitis, pyuria and postoperative complications such as bleeding, infection and recurrence. They were advised postoperative dilatation with ophthalmic ointment nozzle for one month. Patients with prior history of circumcision were included in the study. The most common symptom in our study was thinning of urinary stream 17 (65.4%) cases. Other common symptoms were painful micturition in eight and bloody spotting in seven cases. Eight patients were having pin hole meatus and three cases were having pyuria. Compliance for post-operative dilatation was 76.9% (20 cases). No case of recurrence was seen. It can be concluded that meatal stenosis is related to infant circumcision. It is treated by meatoplasty with satisfactory outcome. Whether we would be able to prevent this post circumcision complication? There is no obvious solution to this problem for the time being.
Smog the New Unfortunate Reality: A Catastrophe Public Health Concern in Decreasing Life Spans of Pakistani Population
Authors: Afzal Saira , Bajwa Naila
Published: March 2024

The air pollution that is currently engulfing T Pakistan is a public health emergency. Pakistan's "smog season" begins in the fall and early winter and seems to be getting worse every year. Lahore and other cities in the region frequently rank among the worst places in the world for air quality.1 According to a University of Chicago study, the consequences of the smog will shorten people's lives in Lahore by an average of seven years. The Punjab administration acted decisively after the Air Quality Index (AQI) in Lahore reached a concerning peak of 409 in November.2
Incidence and Causes of Discharging Ear after Mastoid Exploration
Authors: Aziz Bakht , Umar Maryam , Akram Sajjad , Rehman Atiq U , Ahmad Jawad , Shahzad M.A. Khurram
Published: March 2024

Background: Chronic ear diseases, common in developing countries, often require mastoid exploration, leading to post-operative ear discharge. This study, conducted at ENT Unit I of Jinnah Hospital (November 2022 to November 2023), investigates postoperative ear discharge incidences across different mastoid exploration techniques. Objective: This cross-sectional study conducted at ENT Unit I of Jinnah Hospital, Lahore, from November 2022 to November 2023 aimed to investigate the incidence of post-operative ear discharge following different mastoid exploration techniques. The study sought to establish associations between surgical techniques and post-operative outcomes, including the nature of discharge and causative organisms.– Methods: A sample of 18 ears, systematically divided into three groups based on the surgical technique. The groups included Cortical Mastoidectomy (Group A), Radical Mastoidectomy (Group B), and Modified Radical Mastoidectomy (Group C). Purposive sampling was employed, and data were collected from patient records, including demographic information, surgicaltechniques, and culture results of ear discharge samples. Statistical analysis, including chi-square tests and Fisher's exact tests, was conducted to determine associations, with a significance level set at 0.05 Results: Incidence rates for Groups A, B, and C were 66.67%, 100%, and 54.55%, resulting in an overall incidence of 55.17% Microbiological analysis revealed prevalent causative organisms, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Statistical analysis confirmed a significant association between surgical technique and outcomes. Conclusion: The study underscores the significance of tailoring mastoid exploration techniques to minimize post-operative ear discharge. Understanding the microbiological profile enhances targeted interventions for better patient outcomes.
As Relações entre Práticas de Recursos Humanos, Cultura Organizacional e Satisfação dos Hóspedes na Hotelaria
Authors: Câmara Samara Maria Aires da , Barreto Leilianne Michelle Trindade da Silva
Published: March 2024

A relação indivíduo-organização tem demonstrado sua importância cada vez mais reconhecida no campo organizacional, sendo também uma estratégia para tornar as empresas competitivas. O objetivo desta pesquisa é avaliar as relações entre as práticas de recursos humanos, a cultura organizacional e a satisfação dos hóspedes na hotelaria brasileira. O estudo é caracterizado como descritivo, com abordagem quantitativa, no qual foram aplicados questionários em 104 hotéis e resorts brasileiros. Os dados foram avaliados por meio de técnicas estatísticas de modelagem de equações estruturais. A pesquisa revelou uma relação positiva entre as práticas de recursos humanos, a cultura organizacional e a satisfação dos hóspedes. As práticas de recursos humanos contribuem para moldar a cultura organizacional e para, consequentemente, alcançar a satisfação dos hóspedes. Isolados os construtos não se relacionam com a satisfação dos hóspedes, sendo necessária a relação mútua para essa conquista, mostrando a interdependência entre as práticas de recursos humanos e a cultura organizacional. Os resultados permitiram compreender como funciona essa relação, de modo a auxiliar a gestão das organizações hoteleiras em prol dos resultados organizacionais, especialmente voltados para a satisfação dos hóspedes.
Rio e Bahia/ Centro e Periferia: alguns discursos jornalísticos baianos e cariocas, durante a ascensão do samba no projeto nacionalista brasileiro
Authors: Gobbi Novaes Gustavo
Published: March 2024

No presente artigo, analisarei como os jornais cariocas Correio da Manhã e Jornal do Brasil e o jornal baiano O Imparcial construíram discursos de valorização de seus lugares de origem, a partir da exaltação das produções sambistas cariocas e baianas, entre os anos 30 e 40 do século XX. Com base na análise do discurso, de Van Dijk (2008), e empregando os autores da teoria das identidades Woodward (2009) e Moura (2001), observou-se que, de um lado, o centralismo cultural da capital fluminense esboçou-se na valorização do “samba carioca”, inventando um Rio de Janeiro brilhante, moderno e, frequentemente, confundido com o bojo do projeto nacionalista brasileiro. Por outro lado, no discurso do jornal baiano, pintou-se uma Bahia ciosa de mostrar o seu valor cultural, evidenciando os artistas nativos que, na capital, fizeram sucesso e exaltaram as qualidades de sua terra, buscando fazer reconhecer as suas características identitárias.
Aplicativo para dispositivos móveis para divulgar a biologia e as formas de transmissão do Aedes Aegypti L. (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Santos do Nascimento Éshylla Myllene , Barbosa da Silva Aldeni
Published: March 2024

Esse trabalho teve como objetivo a criação de um aplicativo para dispositivos móveis com o intuito de divulgar a biologia e as formas de transmissão do A. aegypti L., tendo em vista que o A. aegypti L. é, sem dúvida, um dos principais vetores de doenças como a dengue, por exemplo. Sendo assim, se viu necessário a criação de um aplicativo para divulgar a proliferação desses mosquitos. O estudo foi desenvolvido com a comunidade da cidade de Areia/PB. O aplicativo foi desenvolvido para o Sistema Operacional Android, para a construção do mesmo foi utilizada a plataforma Android Studio (versão 27.1.1), tal plataforma utiliza a linguagem JAVA para o desenvolvimento do aplicativo. Inicialmente, apresentou-se o aplicativo para uma amostra de 100 pessoas da população. No segundo momento, iniciou-se a pesquisa de campo com a aplicação de dois questionários, um referente ao conhecimento da população sobre o A. aegypti, e o outro, referente a aceitação do aplicativo para dispositivos móveis para divulgar a biologia e as formas de transmissão do A. aegypti. Observou-se que 53% das pessoas entrevistadas já contraíram alguma doença transmitida pelo A. aegypti. 27% dos entrevistados já contraíram dengue, 18%, Zica, 8%, Chikungunya e 47% nunca contraíram nenhuma doença transmitida pelo A. aegypti. Das pessoas entrevistadas, 63% afirmaram que conhecem as formas de transmissão, e 70% sabem se prevenir das doenças transmitidas pelo A. aegypti. Verifica-se que 86% dos entrevistados acreditam que um aplicativo pode sim auxiliar a cientificar a população sobre o assunto. 80% dos entrevistados afirmaram que as informações presentes no aplicativo são relevantes. 60% dos entrevistados acreditam que se tivessem acesso ao aplicativo as chances de contrair alguma doença transmitida pelo A. aegypti iriam diminuir. Mais de um terço dos entrevistados, avaliaram o aplicativo como ótimo, podendo concluir que o aplicativo é uma ferramenta eficaz para a cientificação da população e ajuda no combate ao A. aegypti.
... Dos trevos
Authors: Santos Galdino Thiago Jefferson
Published: March 2024

Apresenta o conto “...Dos Trevos".
Vivências de um caminhar multirreferencial na produção do conhecimento
Authors: Ribeiro Mayra
Published: March 2024

Pensar a relação entre pesquisa e conhecimento e, consequentemente, suas epistemologias e metodologias, nos coloca, necessariamente, no lugar de pensar o entretecimento entre pesquisa e formação. Como escolha opcionada, temos realizado em nossa itinerância acadêmica-formativa-profissional a pesquisa-formação multirreferencial (Ardoino, 1998; Barbosa, 1998; Macedo, 2009), na qual a implicação é condição de uma postura que, ao se relacionar aos nossos vínculos existenciais, profissionais, políticos, culturais, eróticos e espirituais, nos coloca em um jeito outro de pensar e criar saberes e fazeres experenciais formacionais. Nossa perspectiva envolve três pilares fundamentais na pesquisa em educação: a epistemologia multirreferrencial, o paradigma da complexidade (Morin, 2007) e a pesquisa como lugar de implicação, condição para dar sentido aos dilemas que surgem no pesquisador no momento da problematização de sua pesquisa. Com essas inspirações, objetivamos pensar sobre como aprendemos a caminhar com uma postura multirreferencial na construção do conhecimento, afastando-nos de um pretensioso purismo, neutralidade e cientificismo eurocêntrico associados às ciências modernas. Com esse propósito, apresentaremos algumas vivências em pesquisas em que se tecem epistemologias acontecimentais (Macedo, 2016), as quais remetem a uma experiência existencial de ressignificação dos/nos processos formativos dos atores/pesquisadores sociais da educação e de uma produção do conhecimento em diálogo com os saberes produzidos nos cotidianos. Evidenciamos que o nosso constructo de pesquisa por estar enredado de implicações/experiências referencias; diálogo com o plural, com o heterogêneo, sai da visão do instituído para buscar o inédito, o imprevisto, o acontecimento, o complexo, com direito à surpresa, à criação, à interpretações e inventividade, em um processo de formar, formando-se.
Por uma epistemologia LGBTQIAP+
Authors: de Almeida Vieira Kyara Maria
Published: March 2024

Este texto tem o objetivo de apresentar um olhar sobre os saberes históricos que têm se dedicado a construir o que aqui chamamos de epistemologia LGBTQIAP+, numa tentativa de trazer para o debate alguns desafios e possibilidades do conhecimento histórico para além da demarcação do essencialismo e do construcionismo. Metodologicamente realizamos uma pesquisa teórica, bibliográfica e exploratória, a partir da perspectiva qualitativa. Como Resultado inicial, podemos destacar os saberes localizados e a colonialidade na historiografia brasileira. Isso não implica em impossibilidade de produção de uma epistemologia LGBTQIAP+. Não se sustentam as justificativas de suposta ausência de fontes, nem o repúdio à temática ou a acusação de que essa seria uma história militante, pouco ou nada científica. As dificuldades de acesso à documentação, as fragilidades das categorias sexuais contemporâneas, os entraves para a definição de uma cronologia especificamente LGBTQIA+, o desafio de estabelecer quais acontecimentos são significativos, a multiplicidade de recortes históricos, não têm impedido que cada vez mais, se fortaleça a produção histórica LGBTQIAP+. Assim, como conclusão preliminar, é notório que os pilares que sustentam a cis-heteronormatividade ainda estão bastante fincados numa historiografia tradicionalista quando se trata das identidades de gênero e das sexualidades dissidentes. Para rompê-los, não é suficiente tornar a história superficialmente plural. Também se faz necessário implodir os fundamentos localizados e colonizadores que estabelecem o “mesmo” cis-heterossexual como posição universal e, portanto, bússola para normatizar/ disciplinar todas as demais experiências e também possibilidades de escrita da história.
DPP2/7 is a Potential Predictor of Prognosis and Target in Immunotherapy
in Colorectal Cancer: An Integrative Multi-omics Analysis
Authors: Shang Zhihao , Lai Yueyang , Cheng Haibo
Published: March 2024

Background::

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the leading causes of cancerrelated
deaths.

Objective::

This study aimed to illuminate the relationship between DPP7 (also known as
DPP2) and CRC through a combination of bioinformatics and experimental methodologies.

Methods::

A multi-dimensional bioinformatic analysis on DPP7 was executed, covering its expression,
survival implications, clinical associations, functional roles, immune interactions, and
drug sensitivities. Experimental validations involved siRNA-mediated DPP7 knockdown and
various cellular assays.

Results::

Data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) identified high DPP7 expression in solid
CRC tumors, with elevated levels adversely affecting patient prognosis. A shift from the N0 to
the N2 stage in CRC was associated with increased DPP7 expression. Functional insights indicated
the involvement of DPP7 in cancer progression, particularly in extracellular matrix disassembly.
Immunological analyses showed its association with immunosuppressive entities, and
in vitro experiments in CRC cell lines underscored its oncogenic attributes.

Conclusion::

DPP7 could serve as a CRC prognosis marker, functioning as an oncogene and
representing a potential immunotherapeutic target.