bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Real-world use of multigene signatures in early breast cancer: differences to clinical trials
Authors: Licata Luca , De Sanctis Rita , Vingiani Andrea , Cosentini Deborah , Iorfida Monica , Caremoli Elena Rota , Sassi Isabella , Fernandes Bethania , Gianatti Andrea , Guerini-Rocco Elena , Zambelli Claudia , Munzone Elisabetta , Simoncini Edda Lucia , Tondini Carlo , Gentilini Oreste , Zambelli Alberto , Pruneri Giancarlo , Bianchini Giampaolo
Published: September 2023

Purpose
In Italy, Lombardy was the first region to reimburse multigene assays (MGAs) for patients otherwise candidates for chemotherapy. This is a real-world experience of MGAs usage in six referral cancer centers in Lombardy.
Methods
Among MGAs, OncotypeDX (RS) was used in 97% of cases. Consecutive patients tested with OncotypeDX from July 2020 to July 2022 were selected. The distribution of clinicopathologic features by RS groups (low-RS: 0–25, high-RS: 26–100) was assessed using chi-square and compared with those of the TAILORx and RxPONDER trials.
Results
Out of 1,098 patients identified, 73% had low-RS. Grade and Ki67 were associated with RS (p < 0.001). In patients with both G3 and Ki67 > 30%, 39% had low-RS, while in patients with both G1 and Ki67 < 20%, 7% had high-RS. The proportion of low-RS in node-positive patients was similar to that in RxPONDER (82%vs83%), while node-negative patients with low-RS were significantly less than in TAILORx (66%vs86%, p < 0.001). The distribution of Grade was different from registration trials, with more G3 and fewer G1 (38% and 3%) than in TAILORx (18% and 27%) and RxPONDER (10% and 24%) (p < 0.001). Patients ≤ 50 years were overrepresented in this series (41%) than in TAILORx and RxPONDER (31% and 24%, respectively) (p < 0.001) and, among them, 42% were node-positive.
Conclusions
In this real-world series, OncotypeDX was the test almost exclusively used. Despite reimbursement being linked to pre-test chemotherapy recommendation, almost 3/4 patients resulted in the low-RS group. The significant proportion of node-positive patients ≤ 50years tested indicates that oncologists considered OncotypeDX informative also in this population.
Exploring the Overlap: Comparing STORGIS and ONETOR data between 1950 and 1989
Authors: Schroder Zoe , Fricker Tyler
Published: September 2023

The current understanding of tornado climatology centers on the Storm Prediction Center's tornado database (ONETOR) which dates back to 1950. To understand tornado climatology before this date, a secondary database (STORGIS) of digitized tornado records over the period 1880–1989 are used. Here, the ONETOR database and STORGIS data set are compared for individual tornadoes and outbreaks with six or more F2+ tornadoes during the overlapping years of 1950 to 1989. For the study period, there are more individual tornado reports in the ONETOR database relative to the STORGIS data set. While both databases suggest a similar broad-scale understanding of tornado climatology spatially and by decade, month, and year, there is a statistically significant difference between the two databases with regards to the total number of reports over the study period. For the study period, there are more tornado outbreaks in the ONETOR database relative to the STORGIS data set. In total, more than 94% of the missing outbreaks in the STORGIS data set are weaker outbreaks with ten or less tornadoes. While the general spatial and temporal patterns of the number and size of tornado outbreaks is similar between the STORGIS data set and ONETOR database, there is a statistically significant difference in the total number and average number of tornado outbreaks between each database. These results herein indicate that while the STORGIS data set is representative of large-scale patterns of F2+ tornado behavior in the United States, it cannot be used synonymously with the ONETOR database without additional statistical methods or context.
NMR fingerprinting of conventional and genetically modified soybean plants with AtAREB transcription factors
Authors: Coutinho Isabel , Facchinatto William , Mertz-Hernning Liliane Marcia , Viana Américo José , Marin Silvana Regina , Santagneli Silvia Helena , Nepomuceno Alexandre , Colnago Luiz Aberto
Published: September 2023

Drought stress impacts soybean yield and physiological processes. However, the insertion of the activated form of the AtAREB1 gene in the soybean cultivar BR16, which is sensitive to water deficit improved the drought response of the genetically-modified plants under glasshouse conditions. Thus, in this study used 1H NMR in solution and solid-state NMR to investigate the response of genetically modified soybean overexpressing AREB under water deficiency conditions. We achieved that drought-tolerant soybean yields high content of amino acids isoleucine, leucine, threonine, valine, proline, glutamate, aspartate, asparagine, tyrosine and phenylalanine after twelve days of drought stress conditions, as compared to drought-sensitive soybeans under same conditions. Specific target compounds, including sugars, organic acids and phenolic compounds, were identified as involved in controlling sensitive soybean during the vegetative stage. Solid-state NMR was used to study the impact of drought stress on starch and cellulose content in different soybean genotypes. The findings provide insights into the metabolic adjustments of soybean overexpressing AREB transcription factors in adapting to dry climates. This study presents novel NMR techniques for investigating the metabolome of transgenic soybean plants in response to water deficit. The approach allowed for identification of physiological and morphological changes in drought-resistant and drought-tolerant soybean tissues. The findings indicate that drought stress significantly alters micro and macromolecular metabolism in soybean plants. Differential responses were observed among roots and leaves, as well as drought-tolerant and drought-sensitive cultivars, highlighting the complex interplay between overexpressed transcription factors and drought stress in soybean plants.
Dose-dependent effect and effective dose of nefopam to prevent catheter-related bladder discomfort in patients undergoing transurethral ureteroscopic lithotripsy: a retrospective case-control observational study
Authors: Lee Seo Yeon , Kim Young Uk , Lee Ju-Yeun , Kim Wook Hyun , Cho Hyung Rae
Published: September 2023

Background
Patients with Foley catheter may experience catheter-related bladder discomfort (CRBD) after surgery. Previous studies have indicated that nefopam can reduce the incidence and severity of CRBD; however, they could not compare dose-dependent effects (20 mg vs. 40 mg). Therefore, we aimed to investigate the dose-dependent effects, effective dose of nefopam for CRBD, and the incidence of side effects.
Methods
From August 2016 to December 2022, we reviewed the electronic medical records of patients aged 18–70 years with American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I-III who underwent elective transurethral ureteroscopic lithotripsy under general anesthesia. Patients were either administered premedication to prevent CRBD (intravenous nefopam 20 mg, group N20, or 40 mg, group N40) or not (group C).
Results
The incidence of CRBD were 85.7% in Group C, 81.3% in Group N20, and 24.3% in Group N40. There was a significant difference in the incidence between the groups (P = 0.0034). As the dose of nefopam increased, the incidence of CRBD decreased linearly, and the difference was statistically significant (P = 0.002). In the trend test, severity also decreased as the dose of nefopam increased, which was statistically significant (P < 0.001). Evaluation of hemodynamic stability during surgery and postoperative nausea and vomiting showed no significant differences among the three groups.
Conclusions
Nefopam 40 mg reduced both the incidence and severity of CRBD compared to the control group.
Trial registration number:
ID- KCT0008381 (https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=KCT0008381)
Date of registration – 2023-04-25
Assessing the sustainability of university information systems using the D&M IS Success Model
Authors: Haimeng Wen , Hua Zhang , Meng Chen , Tengwei Yu , Yougen Xu
Published: September 2023

The majority of prominent universities globally have either established or are currently in the process of establishing information systems (ISs) that incorporate a range of applications. Nonetheless, a significant proportion lacks a clear comprehension of the sustainability success of their University Information Systems (UIS). On the basis of the D&M Model, a revised measurement model for assessing the sustainability of UIS along three dimensions is proposed: quality, satisfaction, as well as usage intention. Furthermore, the findings indicate substantial support for eight out of twelve hypothesized relationships among the sustainability variables. Particularly, frequency of use is significantly correlated with users' perceptions of system quality and usage intention. Based on our analysis, it has been indicated that both system quality and process quality play crucial roles in determining the intention to use and satisfaction of users of UIS, which are fundamental for attaining long-term sustainability. Notwithstanding, information quality may not be as remarkable, while service support quality only has a minor impact on user satisfaction.
Effect of Synthesized Lignin-Based Flame Retardant Liquid on the Flame Retardancy and Mechanical Properties of Cotton Textiles
Authors: Li Maksym , M.N. Prabhakar , Song Jung Il
Published: September 2023

The flammability of cotton is a significant concern for technical applications, prompting ongoing research into solutions to mitigate this risk. Traditional flame-retardant methods utilizing acid-based approaches are complex and can negatively affect the mechanical properties of textiles. To address these challenges, this study focuses on developing a liquid bio-based flame retardant (LBF) utilizing a lignin-silica-based liquid (LSL) extracted from rice husk (RH) and 9, 10-Dihydro-9-oxa-10-phosphaphenanthrene-10-oxide (DOPO). A one-pot dip-coating technique is utilized to treat cotton with the LSL, and the flammability and mechanical properties of the treated cotton are subsequently tested. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) confirms the covalent bond formation of the LSL with DOPO and the hydrogen bond formation of the LBF with cotton. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) confirms the uniformity of the coating. The experimental results demonstrate that the treated cotton exhibits self-extinguishing behavior during a vertical burning test (VBT), with a 78% reduction in peak heat release and a 65% reduction in total heat released during pyrolysis combustion flow calorimetry. Surprisingly, the treatment also improves the tensile behavior of the cotton by 21.7% and thermal stability by producing a protective char layer that accounted for 36.9% of the final residue. This study provides a promising approach for improving the flame resistance and mechanical strength of cotton for technical applications.
On computable numberings of families of Turing degrees
Authors: Faizrahmanov Marat
Published: September 2023

In this work, we study computable families of Turing degrees introduced and first studied by Arslanov and their numberings. We show that there exist finite families of Turing c.e. degrees both those with and without computable principal numberings and that every computable principal numbering of a family of Turing degrees is complete with respect to any element of the family. We also show that every computable family of Turing degrees has a complete with respect to each of its elements computable numbering even if it has no principal numberings. It follows from results by Mal’tsev and Ershov that complete numberings have nice programming tools and computational properties such as Kleene’s recursion theorems , Rice’s theorem, Visser’s ADN theorem, etc. Thus, every computable family of Turing degrees has a computable numbering with these properties. Finally, we prove that the Rogers semilattice of each such non-empty non-singleton family is infinite and is not a lattice.
MSC Classification: 03D45 , 03D25 , 03D30
Breastfeeding experience, barriers, and facilitators among mothers of vulnerable low birth weight infants in Amhara Region, Ethiopia: a qualitative exploratory study
Authors: Ekwueme Moses Collins , Tesfaye Yihenew Alemu , Biza Heran , Belew Mulusew Lijalem , Asefa Meseret , Asnakew Destaw , Gobezayehu Abebe Gebremariam , Cranmer John N. , Young Melissa Fox
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Globally, 15% - 20% of all live births are low birthweight (LBW) newborns, and many mothers with LBW newborns experience feeding difficulties. Concrete efforts to understand and mitigate the barriers to breastfeeding among this vulnerable group are urgently needed.
Methods:Mother-newborn pairs were recruited from 8 facilities from the government’s Saving Little Lives initiative in Amhara Region, Ethiopia. We conducted a qualitative study using in-depth interviews among 30 mothers of LBW newborns (10 with very low birthweight [VLBW, <1500 gm]; 8 with LBW [<2000 gm] who experience breastfeeding difficulties, and 12 without difficulties). The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis to describe the breastfeeding barriers and facilitators for mothers with and without feeding difficulties.
Results: Despite strong intentions to exclusively breastfeed during pregnancy and knowledge of breastfeeding benefits, many mothers of LBW newborns had difficulties initiating and continuing breastfeeding while in-patient. Self-reported insufficient milk (SRIM), suboptimal breastfeeding support in hospitals, prolonged mother-newborn separation in Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs), and limited knowledge of effective feeding techniques (limited antenatal and postnatal care education) were the most common barriers. Further, mothers with multiple births reported greater feeding difficulties; they were more likely to adopt formula feeding compared to those with single births. The primary facilitators of LBW breastfeeding were the synergy between health workers (mainly women health workers) and mothers, mothers’ peer counseling, and family support. However, health worker support varied widely across facilities.
Conclusion:The findings from this study provide contextual insights into maternal LBW breastfeeding barriers and facilitators of successful and sustained breastfeeding. For example, creating NICU expectations to minimize maternal-newborn separation, targeting neonates’ feeding support for mothers with VLBW newborns and/or multiple births, and designing a standardized protocol for LBW nutritional support to guide health worker support are critically needed.
The role of melatonin deficiency induced by pinealectomy on motor activity and anxiety responses in young adult, middle-aged and old rats
Authors: Tchekalarova Jana , Krushovlieva Desislava , Ivanova Petj , Nenchovska Zlatina , Toteva Gergana , Atanasova Milena
Published: September 2023

Background
Aging affects anxiety levels in rats while the pineal gland, via its hormone melatonin, could modulate their inherited life “clock.” The present study aimed to explore the impact of plasma melatonin deficiency on anxiety responses and the possible involvement of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis and heat shock proteins (Hsp) 70 and 90 in the frontal cortex (FC) and the hippocampus in young adult, middle-aged and elderly rats with pinealectomy.
Results
Melatonin deficiency induced at different life stages did not affect the lifespan of rats. Pinealectomy abolished the circadian rhythm of motor activity, measured for 48 h in the actimeter, in young adult but not in middle-aged rats. Both 18-month-old sham- and rats with pinealectomy exhibited impaired circadian variations of motor activity. The same generations (3- and 18-month-old rats with pinealectomy) had lower anxiety levels than the matched sham groups, measured in three tests: elevated-plus maze, light-dark test, and novelty suppressing feeding test. While the activity of the HPA axis remained intact in young adult and middle-aged rats with melatonin deficiency, high baseline corticosterone level and blunted stress-induced mechanism of its release was detected in the oldest rats. Age-associated reduced Hsp 70 and 90 levels in the FC but not in the hippocampus were detected. Pinealectomy diminished the expression of Hsp 70 in the FC of middle-aged rats compared to the matched sham rats.
Conclusions
Our results suggest that while melatonin hormonal dysfunction impaired the circadian variations of motor activity and emotional behavior in young adult and elderly rats, the underlying pathogenic mechanism in these generations might be different and needs further verification.
Impact of cover crops on population density of the root-lesion nematode Pratylenchus penetrans.
Authors: Taning Lirette Menyen , Lippens Louis , Formesyn Ellen , Fleerakkers Sander , Wesemael Wim
Published: September 2023

In Belgium and worldwide, agriculture has been under threat from plant-parasitic nematodes. Root-lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus spp.) cause yield loss in many vegetable, arable and horticultural crops. Increased use of cover crops can affect population build ups. This study evaluated the reproductive potential of Pratylenchus penetrans on different cultivars of cover crops both, in pot tests and field experiments. Twenty three different cultivars were evaluated against P. penetrans at low (10 P. penetrans per 100 cm³ soil) and high (100 P. penetrans per 100 cm³ soil) initial inoculum density in a pot experiment under glasshouse conditions. Based on their reproductive factor (Rf) after 8 weeks, they were classified under five different categories: Non-host, Poor host, Maintenance host, Good host, and Excellent host. At low Pi, fodder radish 'Defender' and 'Doublet' and birds foot trefoil 'Lotar' were poor hosts. At high Pi, birds foot trefoil 'Lotar' and 'Franco', fodder radish 'Doublemax', 'Maximus' and 'Contra', black oat 'Pratex', phacelia 'Natra', Italian ryegrass 'Meroa' and 'Fedra', rye 'Dukato' and 'Matador' reduced the P. penetrans population. Under field conditions, fodder radish 'Doublet', Japanese oat 'Delux', yellow mustard 'Chacha', Phacelia 'Natra', Italian ryegrass 'Fedra' and Tagetes patula reduced the root-lesion nematode population. The infectious process of P. penetrans on some of these cultivars proven to be poor host was screened using Cone tainers™. Penetration, development and multiplication of P. penetrans was assessed. The information opens possibilities for further resistance breeding. Based on our results we can conclude that with proper choice of selected cultivars of cover crops, P. penetrans can be controlled but that further breeding efforts are needed.
The dynamical analysis of a nonlocal predator-prey model with cannibalism
Authors: Duan Daifeng , Niu Ben , Wei Junjie , Yuan Yuan
Published: September 2023

Cannibalism is often an extreme interaction in the animal species to quell competition for limited resources. To model this important factor, we improve the predator-prey model with nonlocal competition effect by incorporating cannibalism term, different kernels for competition is considered in this model numerically. We give the critical conditions leading to the existence of the double Hopf bifurcation, in which the gestation time delay and the diffusion coefficient were selected as the bifurcation parameters. The innovation of the work lies near the double Hopf bifurcation point, the stable homogeneous and inhomogeneous periodic solutions can coexist. The theoretical results of the extended center manifold reduction and normal form method are in good agreement with the numerical simulation.
Identification and verification of the effect of ferroptosis risk genes on gastric cancer cells and ferroptosis-related immune landscape analysis
Authors: Wang Xiang-Qian , Wan Fu-Jian , Zhao Wen-Jing , Sun Feng , Yu Qi-Ying
Published: September 2023

Gastric cancer is a highly prevalent tumour globally, and the prognosis after treatment is generally poor. Ferroptosis is a regulated type of programmed cell death that plays an important role in several cellular functions. This study utilised differentially expressed genes that were related to ferroptosis in gastric cancer for molecular subtyping. The genes of interest were acquired using WGCNA, and thereafter, the LASSO algorithm was employed to construct a risk prognostic model for ferroptosis-related genes(FRGs). We validated this model using PCA, ROC and other methods. We subsequently analysed immune cell infiltration amongst different ferroptosis-related risk score(FRRS) groups, and found that the high-FRRS group exhibited a markedly enhanced level of macrophage M2 content. Finally, ASCL2 was selected as the study object to validate the prognostic model of ferroptosis-related risk gene(FRRG) by screening the mutation status. The experimental results demonstrated that inhibiting ASCL2 expression in vitro resulted in a significant reduction of glutathione levels, accumulation of intracellular divalent iron ions, and mitochondrial morphological condensation and membrane thickening. In vivo, inhibition of ASCL2 expression inhibited gastric cancer cell growth and led to a significant reduction in intra-tumour glutathione. Validation and experimentation confirm that FRRS can serve as an independent prognostic factor, enabling risk stratification of patients, and that FRRGs have the potential to be used as therapeutic targets through inducing ferroptosis in cancer cells.
Passive surveillance for shrimp pathogens in Penaeus vannamei submitted from 3 Regions of Latin America
Authors: Intriago Pablo , Medina Andres , Cercado Nicole , Arteaga Kelly , Montenegro Alejandra , Burgos Milena , Espinoza Jorge , Brock James A , McIntosh Robins , Flegel Tim
Published: September 2023

Multiple PCR analyzes were performed using 19 different primer sets to open and broaden the search spectrum for shrimp pathogens. In addition, multiple primer pairs for 10 pathogens were compared to see if there were differences in selectivity or sensitivity among them. Some pathogens that did not present histological lesions were detected. The most important outcome was thatthe selection of appropriate primers was the most critical factor in obtaining reliable results. We found high variability in results among primers, and we learned it was prudent to seasonally assess them for the best set selection. It is important to understand that a PCR positive test result alone does not confirm the presence of a viable pathogen or a disease state. Nor, as might be expected, does it mean that the positive PCR test results will be necessarily accompanied by histological lesions characteristic of the targeted pathogen. However, the use of appropriately selected primer sets can reveal whether there is an evolution in the result spectrum over time and if some pathogens disappear or reappear or new ones emerge. In general, most shrimp presented coinfections that consisted of the presence of WzSV8, DHPV, chronic midgut inflammation and tubule distension/epithelial atrophy consistent with Pir A/B toxicity. Also included were RLB/NHPB, microsporidia, striated muscle necrosis, gregarines in the hindgut caecum (gametocyte stage, and not associated with tegumental glands but glands that line the mouth and anus) and encysted, presumed nematode larvae. WzSV8 was newly discovered in gonads. Histological changes and the presence of spheroids in the lymphoid organ were considered healthy host responses of often unidentified cause.
Comparing the performance of microcomb based RF photonic transversal signal processors based on discrete components versus integration
Authors: Moss David
Published: September 2023

RF photonic transversal signal processors, which combine reconfigurable electrical digital signal processing and high-bandwidth photonic processing, provide a powerful solution for achieving adaptive high-speed information processing. Recent progress in optical microcomb technology provides compelling multi-wavelength sources with compact footprint, yielding a variety of microcomb-based RF photonic transversal signal processors implemented by either discrete or integrated components. Although operating based on the same principle, processors in these two forms exhibit distinct performance. This letter presents a comparative investigation into their performance. First, we compare the performance of state-of-the-art processors, focusing on the processing accuracy. Next, we analyze various factors that contribute to the performance differences, including tap number and imperfect response of experimental components. Finally, we discuss the potential for future improvement. These results provide a comprehensive comparison of microcomb-based RF photonic transversal signal processors implemented using discrete and integrated components and provide insights for their future development.
The Use of E-Health and M-Health Tools in Pediatric Care Among Parents and Healthcare Workers in Developing Countries: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Irawan Anggi Septia , Döbrössy Bence Márton , Bire Mengesha Srahbzu , Muharram Arief Purnama , Kovács Dávid Szilárd , Girasek Edmond
Published: September 2023

Background Electronic health (E-Health) and mobile health (M-Health) have emerged as promising solutions to address the scarcity of healthcare workers in developing countries. This systematic literature review aims to comprehensively explore the utilization of E-Health and M-Health tools in pediatric care among parents and healthcare workers in these regions.Methods A literature search was conducted on the PubMed and Scopus databases in January 2023, covering the period from 2013 to 2022. The search adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. The PECOS format outlined by PROSPERO was used to determine the eligibility of systematic reviews and primary studies, with no restrictions on study designs or methodologies. Eligible articles comprised original research published in peer-reviewed open-access journals, limited to the English language. The methodological quality of the included articles was independently assessed by authors using the CASP checklists to evaluate reporting quality.Result The initial search yielded 334 publications, of which 16 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria for the review. These comprised 12 Random Control trials and 4 Qualitative-Quantitative studies. The CASP criteria were applied to all studies, and those with a moderate to high level of methodological quality were included and reported. The reviewed publications described various types of E-Health and M-Health tools, with a majority (50%) of the studies conducted in Asia. The target users in the publications were diverse, with 37% focusing on mothers, 25% targeting pregnant women, and 19% targeting healthcare workers.Conclusions The review highlights a diverse range of tools, including mobile applications, websites, SMS, and phone calls, with a particular focus on breastfeeding, vaccination, and child growth. The findings emphasize the importance of healthcare worker participation and the trust placed in information from relatives to influence the effectiveness of these tools. Moreover, the study underscores the need for intimate discussions when addressing sensitive topics like HIV and contraceptives. This review enhances our understanding of the role of E-Health and M-Health tools in pediatric care in developing countries. It highlights their potential to bridge healthcare gaps and promote wider access to quality care, addressing the challenges posed by limited healthcare resources in these regions.
Decoding the Inflammatory Signature of the Major Depressive Episode: Insights from Peripheral Immunophenotyping in Active and Remitted Condition
Authors: Daray Federico , Grendas Leandro , Arena Ángeles , Tifner Vera , Casiani Romina Álvarez , Olaviaga Alejandro , Chiapella Luciana , Vazquez Gustavo , Penna Melina , Hunter Fernando , Prokopez Cintia , Silva Eugenio Carrera , Errasti Andrea
Published: September 2023

Although the immune system's role in the pathogenesis and persistence of depression is increasingly recognized, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding the involvement of innate and adaptive immune cells. This study aims to bridge this knowledge gap by providing a deepening assessment of immunological profiles integrated into clinical and biochemical parameters in individuals with Major Depressive Episode (MDE). This multicenter case-control sex and age-matched study recruiting 121 participants divided into patients with active and remitted MDE and healthy controls (HC). Biochemical parameters, humoral responses (pro- and anti-inflammatory), and specific innate and adaptive immune cell populations were measured. Patients with MDE showed monocytosis, increased high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate levels, and an altered proportion of specific monocyte subsets. CD4 lymphocytes exhibited increased activation and exhaustion and a higher frequency of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+ regulatory T cells. Additionally, patients with MDE showed increased plasma levels of sTREM2, IL-17 and IL-6. This profile denoted an immune dysregulation and inflammation in MDE. Boruta analyses identified markers with significant discriminative potential for distinguishing between patients with MDE and HC. Cluster analysis revealed that patients with MDE exhibited at least three different patterns of immune system activation, suggesting a different stage of inflammation or possible differences in the underlying mechanism involved. Our findings give a deeper understanding of the role of inflammation and its mediators in MDE, illuminating the way for novel therapeutic strategies tailored to specific subgroups of patients.
Prevalence of pre-exam Anxiety among Medical and Paramedical Students in The Arab World during COVID-19: a Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Elgendy Ali Mohamed Naguib , Benmelouka Amira Yasmine , Douba Zain , Attia Abdelrahman M , Rasmy Jackleen , Alsaman Muhamad Zakaria Brimo , Zazo Aya , Mohandes Abdul Fattah , Mohammed Yasmine Adel , Abd-ElGawad Mohamed
Published: September 2023

Background Pre-exam anxiety is a condition that affects students before their exams, and significantly affects their academic performance, mental, and physiological state. Medical and paramedical students are more likely to experience exams related stress and anxiety. Here we aimed to evaluate the prevalence of exam anxiety and its associated risk factors among undergraduate Arab medical and paramedical students. Methods We performed a multicenter cross-sectional study in six Arab countries: Egypt, Syria, Iraq, Palestine, Algeria, and Libya from March to April 2021. We used Epi Info version 7.2 software to calculate the sample size. An online questionnaire including The Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale − 21 Items (DASS-21) was used to measure exam-related anxiety. We used IBM SPSS for Windows version 26 statistical software and R programming language version 3.6.3. data analysis. Results A total of 18979 participants filled out the questionnaire, 71.3% of them were females. The majority of the study participants were between the ages of 20 to 21 years 42.4% (n = 8055). On the DASS, 38.8% of participants experienced severe symptoms of depression, 47.6% of them experienced severe symptoms of anxiety, and 30.2% experienced severe symptoms of stress. Of the three subscales of the DASS, Females had a significantly higher risk than males to develop Depression, Anxiety, and Stress (B = 2.454, P < 0.001), (B = 4.256, P < 0.001), (B = 3.516, P < 0.001) respectively. Participants aged 22 years or more were less susceptible to test-related depression (B= -0.907, P < 0.001) and anxiety (B= -0.958, P < 0.001). Students who study between 13 and 18 hours per week were considerably more likely to have lower scores on all DASS subscales than those who study more than 18 hours per week, depression (B= -0.983, P < 0.001), Anxiety (B= -1.334, P < 0.001) and stress (B= -1.693, P < 0.001). Conclusion The prevalence of test-related anxiety, stress, and depression is high among medical and paramedical students in the Arab region. Medical educators should be aware of the impacts of this comorbidity and should work on implementing new and effective strategies to help students cope with psychological changes during exams.
Cyclic Peptide High-Entropy Noncovalent Glass
Authors: Yan Xuehai , Yuan Chengqian , Fan Wei , Xing Ruirui , Zhou Peng , Cao Shuai
Published: September 2023

The design and exploration of stable noncovalent glass based on biomolecules are paramount for the sustainable development of human society. Cyclic peptides (CPs) with remarkable structural rigidity and decent resistance to enzymatic degradation can serve as promising glass formers. However, the potent crystallization tendency hinders their potential in glass construction. Herein, we engineered a series of CP glasses with tunable glass transition behaviors by modulating the conformational complexity of CP clusters. The increasing conformational entropy of the supercooled liquid of CPs compared to their crystalline counterparts is fundamental to the formation of CP noncovalent glass. By incorporating multicomponent CPs, the formation of high-entropy CP (HECP) glass is facilitated, which in turn inhibits the crystallization and decomposition of individual CPs. This process ultimately enhances the stability of CP noncovalent glass. Such HECP glass exhibits enhanced mechanical properties compared to individual CP glass due to the promoted connectivity within the glass network. These findings offer a promising paradigm for designing and developing stable noncovalent glass based on naturally derived biomolecules and advancing their application in pharmaceutical formulations and smart materials.
Merekonstruksi Candi Terkubur
Authors: Mutaqi Ahmad Saifudin , Wijaya Robert Rianto
Published: September 2023

Title: Reconstructing the Buried Temple
Case Study: Candi Kimpulan Excavation and Restoration at Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII)
 
The discovery of the archaeological site, Candi Kimpulan, during the foundation excavation of the Central Library Building at Universitas Islam Indonesia (UII) in December 2009 halted the ongoing construction. The agreement to conduct the restoration of this ancient site raised concerns about the duration and required space for the restoration process. Moreover, complications arose due to the location of the artifact discovery directly beneath the construction site. This article presents a literature review of various scholarly journals directly related to the reconstruction of buried temple structures. It aims to provide insights into the temple reconstruction process amid a comprehensive redesign of the university's library building. The study reveals crucial factors that significantly influenced the successful and relatively swift completion of the Candi Kimpulan restoration project. This endeavor serves as a positive benchmark for similar cases of buried temple discoveries, offering valuable lessons in planning and executing restoration projects.
Effect of enterprise risk management and corporate governance mechanisms on firm performance: Evidence from listed companies in Indonesia
Authors: Anugerah Rita , Rizki Ariyanto Nadila , Nelly Sari Ria
Published: September 2023

This study aims to assess the influence of enterprise risk management and corporate governance mechanisms on companies’ financial and market performance. This study’s population is all companies registered on the Indonesia Stock Exchange in 2019. The purposive sampling method was used to select 664 listed companies to obtain a total sample of 242 companies. This study used a quantitative approach and analyzed data using Partial Least Square (PLS). The results showed that enterprise risk management (p < 0.01; β = 0.28) and corporate governance mechanisms (p = 0.01; β = 0.14) affect company financial performance. Enterprise risk management (p < 0.01; β = 0.16) affects company market performance, but corporate governance mechanisms (p = 0.24; β = 0.05) do not affect company market performance. This paper gives stakeholders a better understanding of the relationship between enterprise risk management, corporate governance, financial performance, and corporate market performance; consequently, it can serve as a resource for decision-making. For management, these results can be used as a guideline for taking appropriate steps in managing risk and implementing corporate governance to improve the company’s financial and market performance.
Investigation of protective effects of Harpagophytumprocumbens extract in an experimental rat colitis model
Authors: ERKEK MUSTAFA , AKSIT DİLEK
Published: September 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the possible effects of Harpagophytum procumbens (HP) extract on pro-inflammatory cytokines, oxidative stress, apoptosis and antioxidant mechanisms in a rat colitis model induced by acetic acid. 40 Wistar albino rats were divided into five equal groups: (1) Control, (2) HP, (3) Colitis, (4) Colitis + HP, (5) Colitis + Sulfasalazine. Malondialdehyde (MDA), total antioxidant capacity (TAS), superoxide dismutase (SOD), nitric oxide (NO), interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), ceruloplasmin and sialic acid levels were analyzed in blood samples. In addition colon tissues were evaluated histopathologically and immunohistochemically (B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) and Bcl-2 associated X protein (Bax)). A significant decrease in serum MDA, NO, TNF-α, IL-6, sialic acid levels, and an increase in serum SOD, TAS, ceruplasmin levels were observed in Colitis + HP group compared to Colitis group. On the other hand, HP administration moderately reduced histopathological damage. It was detected immunohistochemically (Bcl-2, Bax) that apoptosis levels increased in the Colitis group and decreased with HP application. HP administration ameliorated the biochemical and pathological changes caused by colitis in rats. According to the results obtained in this study; HP might have a protective effect by suppressing of proinflammatory cytokines, apoptosis and reduced oxidative stress in colitis.
Tarsocrural arthrodesis using K-wires and crosspinning technique in a cat: a case report
Authors: MORAWSKA-KOZŁOWSKA MAGDALENA , ZHALNIAROVICH YAUHENI
Published: September 2023

Tarsocrural arthrodesis was performed in a cat using Kirschner pins in the crosspinning technique with an additional tension band. Short term radiological and clinical outcomes, arthrodesis progression were assessed. 10 weeks after surgery the clinical examination showed no lameness and the patient’s condition was described as „very good”, radiographically there was a new callus formation bridging the tarsocrural joint with bone remodeling. The functional score was favorable indicating very good postoperative outcomes in terms of the possibility of the cat to perform normal feline activities with no pain.
A Novel Clustering-based Forecast Framework: The Clusters with Competing Configurations Approach
Authors: ALP Miray , DEMİRKIRAN Gökhan
Published: September 2023

Accurate aggregate (total) short-term load forecasting of Smart Homes (SHs) is essential in planning and management of power utilities. The baseline approach consists of simply designing and training predictors for the aggregated consumption data. Nevertheless, better performance can be achieved by using a clustering-based forecasting strategy. In such strategy, the SHs are grouped according to some metric and the forecast of each group's total consumption are summed to reach the forecast of aggregate consumption of all SHs. Although the idea is simple, its implementation requires fine-detailed steps. This paper proposes a novel clustering-based aggregate-level forecast framework, so called Clusters with Competing Configurations (CwCC) approach and then compares its performance to the baseline strategy, namely Clusters with the Same Configurations (CwSC) approach. The Configurations in the name refers to the configurations of ARIMA, Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) forecasting methods, which the CwCC approach uses. We test the CwCC approach on Smart Grid Smart City Dataset. The results show that better performance can be achieved using the CwCC approach for each of the three forecast methods, and LSTM outperforms other methods in each scenario.
An Examination of Characters with Special Needs in Juvenile Books
Authors: ÖZTÜRK Hüseyin , AFACAN Kemal , CEYLAN Mustafa , KIRCI Ali
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Juvenile books are useful tools to increase young people's knowledge and sensitivity about individuals with special needs. In particular, the books that are structured in a qualified way and that appeal to the world of young people will be useful in establishing healthy communication bridges between individuals with typical development and individuals with special needs. For this reason, it is important to identify qualified books on individuals with special needs. In this research, we examined the books that include individuals with special needs as characters in terms of their structure, depiction, and developmental characteristics.
Method: The study utilized document analysis model, one of the qualitative research methods, in which we examined the characters with special needs according to various criteria. We evaluated thirty-eight books in the study. While identifying the books, we sought that they appealed to juvenile and included at least one character with special needs. We analyzed the books with the content analysis technique.
Results: Results showed eleven different disability types in the 38 books. Of these, 10 were visual impairment, 11 were physical disabilities, six were hearing impairment, six were intellectual disability, six were autism spectrum disorder (ASD), five were cerebral palsy, three were speech and language disorders, three were gifted, one was specific learning disability, one was attention deficiency and hyperactivity disorder, one was a physical disorder. In 33 books, characters had positive depictions; 33 characters had dynamic characteristics, and all of the books had realistic fiction except two.
Discussion: The results of the study differ from the studies in the literature in terms of the variety of special needs of the characters. In terms of the reality of the fictions, the results overlap with the studies in the literature. The rate of dynamic characters in the books that are the subject of this research is higher than past studies. The results regarding the relationship between the characters with special needs and their peers are also consistent with the results of the studies on the topic.
Assessment of solar photocatalytic degradation of textile wastewater by ZnO-based reactors
Authors: Chaubey Jyoti , Jain Vineet , Singh Suresh Kumar , Jain Apoorva , Arora H.
Published: September 2023

The present study deals with treating the textile wastewater of Jodhpur city in Rajasthan, India employing a photocatalysis technique. Jodhpur has a number of textile industries and efficient treatment of its effluents has been a major problem in the region. An effort has been made to resolve this issue through this study. A wastewater treatment unit was setup which involved coagulation and flocculation, sand filter, photoreactor, and activated carbon filter processes. ZnO-based semiconductor, coated on galvanized iron (GI) plates, served as a photoreactor. The water quality parameters removal efficiency at the end of each process operation was recorded for different detention periods in the photoreactor. Water quality parameters analyzed were biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), total dissolved solids (TDS), total suspended solids (TSS), and pH. The optimal retention time for the photoreactor was found and the BOD of the wastewater reduced to 25 from 740 mg/l (97% reduction), and TSS from 1,430 to 12 mg/l (99% reduction) for the corresponding retention time. TDS reduction efficiency was 25% and pH changed from 9.2 in raw wastewater to 8.4 in treated wastewater. Results show that the pilot treatment plant was efficient for BOD and TSS removal from the textile wastewater.
The effect of vitamin D deficiency on fatigue and depression in patients with axial spondyloarthritis
Authors: DEMİRHAN Esma , ATAR Sevgi , ÖZDEMİR Muhammed Bilal , KURU Ömer
Published: September 2023

Aim: In this study, we aimed to examine the effect of vitamin D deficiency on fatigue and depression in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (Ax-SpA).

Methods: This cross-sectional study included 141 Ax-SpA patients. Demographic information of the patients was recorded. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Visual Analog Scale, Fatigue Severity Scale, and Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Score were used to evaluate depression, anxiety, pain, fatigue, and disease activity levels, respectively. Vitamin D levels were classified as deficiency (20 ng/ml).

Results: A total of 141 patients enrolled in the study (67 female and 74 male). Vitamin D levels were deficient in 14.2%, insufficient in 56%, and sufficient in 29.8% of cases. In the evaluation of fatigue, 20.6% of the cases were evaluated as normal, 60.3% as tired, and 19.1% as chronically tired. Although fatigue was detected in 79.4% of Ax-SpA patients, fatigue scores were not associated with vitamin D deficiency (p=0.191). There were no significant differences between the vitamin D groups (deficiency, insufficiency, and normal) in fatigue and depression scores, sex, disease duration, and activity.

Conclusion: Vitamin D deficiency is not associated with fatigue, depression, or disease activity in patients with Ax-Spa. Regardless of vitamin D deficiency, patients with depression and fatigue should be evaluated and managed appropriately, and the management of vitamin D deficiency should not be ignored.
Risk factors for postoperative nausea and vomiting following maxillofacial surgery
Authors: ÇİFTÇİ ŞİŞMAN Alanur , ÇİFTÇİ Hazal İrem , ERDEM Necip Fazıl
Published: September 2023

Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the risk factors for postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) in maxillofacial surgery and contribute to its prevention.

Methods: 93 patients (42 female, 51 male) who underwent maxillofacial surgery under general anesthesia were included in the study. No postoperative rescue antiemetic medications were given to patients. One investigator recorded patient-related anesthesia-related and surgery-related variables. The nausea and pain were evaluated postoperatively by means of Visual Analogue Scale. Total number of vomiting in the first 24 hours after surgery and number of days of hospital stay were recorded.

Results: The risk factors most associated with postoperative nausea and vomiting were found to be female sex, increased bleeding, submental intubation, prolonged operation time, and postoperative pain. No significant relationship was found between smoking, age, BMI, receiving GA for the first time and PONV in context of maxillofacial surgery.

Conclusion: Given its prevalence and significant consequences, prevention of postoperative nausea and vomiting is an important consideration. It may be useful to take preoperative and postoperative precautions in patients with one or more risk factors.