bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The evolution, characteristics, and driving forces of the rural-urban HCEs in China: based on the EIO-SDA model
Authors: Yang Yang , Yang Meijian , Luo Jia , Wang Zhengzao , Chi Yuanying , Chen Yahui
Published: December 2024

Households' carbon emissions (HCEs) plays an important role in the overall carbon emission (CE) reduction. This study conducts a comparative analysis of the trends and characteristics of the rural and urban HCEs in China in 1997–2020, by applying the environmental input-output (EIO) model. Then, a three-stage SDA model is applied to decompose the driving forces of the rural and urban HCEs evolution into population effect, per capita HCEs effect, expenditure effect, CE intensity effect, energy structure effect, and energy consumption intensity effect. It is obtained that the rural HCEs increases before 2015 and then decreases, but its per capita HCEs has always shown an upward trend. The urban HCEs has been increasing, but its per capita HCEs starts to decrease after 2015. Indirect HCEs accounts for over 80% of both the rural and urban HCEs, and Residence, Food and Tobacco, Transportation and Communication are the three biggest contributing sectors. To reveal the driving forces of the rural and urban HCEs evolution, this study conducts phase decomposition analysis with 2015 as a turning point. For rural HCEs, in 1997–2015, rural HCEs increased due to the dominant expenditure effect; from 2015 to 2020, the driving force reversed, leading to a decline in rural HCEs. For urban HCEs, the positive population and expenditure effects have always been larger than the negative energy structure and energy consumption intensity effects, resulting growth in urban HCEs. For urban per capita HCEs, in 1997–2015, the positive expenditure effect is greater than the negative CE intensity effect, leading to an increase in urban per capita HCEs, and a positive urban per capita HCEs effect. In 2015–2020, the driving force reversed, leading to a decline in urban per capita HCEs. Based on above results, countermeasures to promote rural and urban HCEs reduction are discussed.
A new Simple Endoscopic Score for Ulcerative Colitis – the SES-UC
Authors: Bergqvist Viktoria , Gedeon Peter , Hertervig Erik , Marsal Jan
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives

Endoscopy is the current gold standard for evaluation of disease activity in ulcerative colitis. The Mayo Endoscopic Subscore (MES) is commonly used for quantifying disease activity, but it has several weaknesses. Numerous new endoscopic indices have been developed but none of these have been widely implemented, likely due to limited feasibility. The primary objective of this study was thus to develop a simple, reliable, endoscopic index for ulcerative colitis. Secondary objectives were to evaluate and compare the MES, the Ulcerative Colitis Endoscopic Index of Severity (UCEIS), and the Ulcerative Colitis Colonoscopic Index of Severity (UCCIS), as well as examining the agreement between full colonoscopy and sigmoidoscopy.

Methods

Consecutive adult ulcerative colitis patients had their routine colonoscopies video recorded, each edited into five shorter segment-specific video sequences. In parallel, blood, fecal, and mucosal samples were collected, together with data on symptoms and quality-of-life. The video sequences were scored by three gastroenterologists and one resident gastroenterologist according to a form comprising six endoscopic disease activity descriptors and an overall endoscopic disease severity assessment.

Results

One hundred unique video sequences from twenty patients were each evaluated three times by four assessors, generating a total of 7200 unique segment-specific data-points for the six descriptors and 1200 unique assessments of overall endoscopic disease severity. The intra- and interobserver agreement for the individual descriptors were overall moderate to very good. The MES, UCEIS, and UCCIS performed similarly with the latter being slightly superior in terms of reliability and correlation to biomarkers of disease activity. The descriptor vascular pattern was the best discriminator at the lower end of the disease activity spectrum, whereas the descriptor ulcers was the best at the medium to high end. These two descriptors were combined into a new index, the Simple Endoscopic Score for Ulcerative Colitis (SES-UC), which displayed similar levels of reliability and accuracy as the established indices. Finally, comparison of sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy showed that up to 38% of patients had their most inflamed segment located proximally to the sigmoid colon.

Conclusions

We propose a new simplified endoscopic index for ulcerative colitis, the SES-UC, which is based on the two descriptors vascular pattern and ulcers. The performance of the SES-UC was similar to, and in some regards better than, that of the established indices (MES, UCEIS, and UCCIS). This together with its simplicity makes SES-UC a candidate index for use in clinical practice as well as in clinical studies.
Study on serum TL1A levels and their correlation with Th17 cells, IL-17 and IL-21 in children with Graves’ disease
Authors: Hao Lijun , Yang Jiong , Lian Biyao , Yin Chunyan , Xiao Yanfeng , Liu Yuesheng
Published: December 2024

Objective

To investigate serum TL1A levels and their correlation with Th17 cells, IL-17, and IL-21 in children with Graves’ disease (GD).

Methods

Thirty-seven children (12 males and 25 females) aged 9-14 years with newly diagnosed and untreated GD were enrolled in this study. Serum TL1A, IL-17, and IL-21 levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The percentage of Th17 cells in peripheral blood was determined by flow cytometry. The correlation between serum TL1A levels and Th17 cells, IL-17, and IL-21 was analyzed using Pearson’s correlation coefficient.

Results

Serum TL1A levels and the percentage of Th17 cells were significantly higher in children with GD compared to healthy controls (P<0.05). Serum IL-17 and IL-21 levels were also significantly elevated in GD patients (P<0.05). Serum TL1A levels positively correlated with the percentage of Th17 cells (r=0.625, P<0.05), IL-17 (r=0.573, P<0.05), and IL-21 (r=0.542, P<0.05) in children with GD.

Conclusion

Serum TL1A levels are increased in children with GD and positively correlate with Th17 cells, IL-17, and IL-21, suggesting that TL1A may play a role in the pathogenesis of GD by regulating Th17 cell differentiation and the production of IL-17 and IL-21.
Immunotherapy for lung adenocarcinoma patients with bone metastases: who really needs it
Authors: Huang Zhangheng , Tong Yuexin , Zhu Lujian , Yang Binbin , Chen Kai , Dai Peiling
Published: December 2024

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma patients are often found to have developed bone metastases at the time of initial diagnosis. With the continuous development of technology, we have successfully entered the era of immunotherapy. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of immunotherapy in lung adenocarcinoma patients with bone metastases (LABM) through a multicenter retrospective analysis and to develop a novel tool to identify the population that could benefit most from immunotherapy.

Methods

To assess the impact of immunotherapy on LABM in terms of overall survival, we used analytical tools such as Kaplan-Meier analysis, Log-ranch test, and propensity score matching (PSM) method. A predictive model for constructing overall survival was constructed using Cox regression modeling. Based on this, we developed a risk classification system depicting Kaplan-Meier curves for subgroup analysis to determine the optimal beneficiary population for immunotherapy in different risk subgroups.

Results

A total of 20073 eligible patients were enrolled in this study, of whom 8010 did not receive immunotherapy, while 12063 patients received immunotherapy. After 1:1 PSM, 15848 patients were successfully coordinated, yielding a balanced cohort. Kaplan-Meier survival curves showed significantly enhanced overall survival (P < 0.001) in patients who received immunotherapy compared to those who did not. The results of Cox regression analyses showed that age, race, sex, primary site, immunotherapy, surgery, chemotherapy, brain metastasis, liver metastasis, lung metastasis, and marital status were independent prognostic factors. The area under the curve for all three cohorts was close to 0.7, indicating that the model was well-discriminating. The calibration curves further proved that the model had a high predictive accuracy. Decision curve analysis demonstrated that the model could achieve a high net clinical benefit. The risk classification system developed based on the model successfully screened the best beneficiary population for immunotherapy.

Conclusion

This study provides convincing evidence that immunotherapy provides a significant survival advantage for LABM. Secondly, the clinical tools constructed in this study can help clinicians identify the optimal population to benefit from immunotherapy in LABM, thus enabling precise treatment and avoiding the waste of medical resources and over-treatment of patients.
Neurostimulation on lumbosacral nerves as a new treatment for spinal cord injury impairments and its impact on cortical activity: a narrative review
Authors: Marques Dantas Rodrigo Lantyer , Vilela Diego N. , Melo Mariana Cardoso , Fernandes Gustavo , Lemos Nucelio , Faber Jean
Published: December 2024

Spinal cord injury (SCI) can cause significant motor, sensory, and autonomic dysfunction by disrupting neural connections. As a result, it is a global health challenge that requires innovative interventions to improve outcomes. This review assesses the wide-ranging impacts of SCI and focuses on the laparoscopic implantation of neuroprosthesis (LION) as an emerging and promising rehabilitation technique. The LION technique involves the surgical implantation of electrodes on lumbosacral nerves to stimulate paralyzed muscles. Recent findings have demonstrated significant improvements in mobility, sexual function, and bladder/bowel control in chronic SCI patients following LION therapy. This manuscript revisits the potential physiological mechanisms underlying these results, including neuroplasticity and modulation of autonomic activity. Additionally, we discuss potential future applications and amendments of LION therapy. This study emphasizes the potential of neuromodulation as a complementary approach to traditional rehabilitation, that can provide a beacon of hope for improving functionality and quality of life for individuals with SCI.
MAFG-DT promotes prostate cancer bone metastasis through activation of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway
Authors: Wang Chongwen , Zhou Zheng , Ye Yongjie , Zhou Liqiang , Wang Jialun , Zhang Zhi
Published: December 2024

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) ranks as the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality among men. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are known to play a regulatory role in the development of various human cancers. LncRNA MAFG-divergent transcript (MAFG-DT) was reported to play a crucial role in tumor progression of multiple human cancers, such as pancreatic cancer, colorectal cancer, bladder cancer, and gastric cancer. Nevertheless, the specific function of MAFG-DT in the context of bone metastasis in PCa remains inadequately understood.

Methods

The expression level of MAFG-DT was analyzed in published datasets and further confirmed in clinical samples and cell lines by RT-qPCR and in situ hybridization assays. Additionally, we further examined the effect of MAFG-DT on cell proliferation, migration, invasion and bone metastasis through CCK8, EdU, colony formation, transwell assays and bone metastasis model with intracardiac injection. Subsequently, the specific mechanism of MAFG-DT in PCa was investigated by RIP, ChIP, bioinformatic analysis and luciferase reporter assays.

Results

We found that MAFG-DT expression was significantly upregulated in PCa tissues exhibiting bone metastasis. Elevated levels of MAFG-DT expression were found to be positively associated with poor prognostic outcomes in PCa patients. Functionally, the knockdown of MAFG-DT resulted in a pronounced inhibition of cellular proliferation, migration, invasion, and bone metastasis. Moreover, it was demonstrated that MAFG-DT enhanced the expression of FZD4 and FZD5 mRNAs by sequestering miR-24-3p, thereby activating the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway. Additionally, the transcription factor MAFG was found to transcriptionally activate MAFG-DT in PCa.

Conclusion

This study confirms the oncogenic role of MAFG/MAFG-DT/miR-24-3p/Wnt/β-catenin in PCa, which suggests that MAFG-DT could serve as a potential therapeutic target for PCa.
Primary Care Academy: lessons learned from a large-scale innovative primary care project
Authors: Steurs Manon , Verté Emily , De Loof Hans , Weemaes Isabel , Remmen Roy , Anthierens Sibyl , De Vriendt Patricia
Published: December 2024

Introduction and context

The social and healthcare system faces numerous challenges, with primary care playing a key role in achieving universal and equitable health coverage. However, the primary care field often struggles with limited research capacity, activity, and funding.

The Primary Care Academy

To address these gaps, the Primary Care Academy (PCA) - a large-scale, innovative, interdisciplinary research and networking organization, encompassing then organization in the primary care field, was established and funded in 2019 by the Fund Dr. Daniel De Coninck, a charity foundation, managed by the King Baudouin Foundation, attempted to fil this gap.

Objectives

The aim of this study was identifying lessons learned on the implementation and achievements of a large-scale, innovative research and network organization, specifically the PCA.

Method

This study evaluates the PCA’s development process, focusing on its key achievements and critical elements by using a mixed-method data collection approach. After 5 years of rigorous collaboration, several lessons can be drawn regarding accomplishments and process flow, particularly in terms of a shared and clear vision, governance, leadership, and organizational culture.

Discussion and conclusion

These lessons can inform future adaptations in the continuation of the PCA and serve as a guide for other caritative large-scale innovative initiatives.
Longitudinal trends and predictors of limitations in activities of daily living in community-dwelling older adults: evidence from the KLoSA study
Authors: Oh Eunmi , Moon SeolHwa , Hong Gwi-Ryung Son
Published: December 2024

Background

As life expectancy increases, the number of older adults with functional limitations is also increasing. Functional limitations are associated with adverse health outcomes such as reduced independence, diminished quality of life (QoL), and disability. Therefore, identifying which activities of daily living (ADLs) are limiting and understanding the influencing factors are crucial for developing tailored interventions. Although various factors influence ADL limitations, few studies have identified the longitudinal factors associated with each ADL. This study explores the longitudinal trends and factors associated with the ADL total score and functional limitations with each ADL among older adults in Korea.

Methods

Using data from the Korean Longitudinal Study of Aging (KLoSA) from 2006 to 2020, we analyzed 1,388 people aged 65 and older who had no ADL limitations in 2006. An ADL limitation was defined as partial or complete dependence in any of the following ADLs: getting dressed, washing face and hands, bathing, eating, transferring, toileting, and continence. We used repeated measures analysis of variance and multivariate logistic regression to investigate the trends and predictors of ADL limitations over a 14-year period.

Results

In 2006, the mean age of the participants was 69.88 years (SD = ±4.11), and 60.20% were female. The prevalence of total ADL limitations and limitations in each of the seven ADLs increased gradually during the 14 years of follow up. In 2020, the ADL items with the highest prevalence of limitations were bathing, getting dressed, and washing face and hands. The common significant predictors for total ADL limitations and limitation in the top three ADLs were age and cognitive function.

Conclusion

ADL limitations among Korean older adults significantly increase over time, which highlights the need for integrated early intervention and continuous support for bathing limitations, including the application of integrated assistive technologies. In particular, because age and cognitive function were identified as the major predictors for limitations in both total ADLs and the top three ADLs, early assessment and appropriate intervention strategies need to consider those factors to prevent ADL limitations in older adults or to meet the immediate needs of those already experiencing ADL limitations. This approach could enhance the QoL for older adults and contribute to the development of long-term healthcare plans.
Intersection of race and socio-economic status on criminal judgments: high status reduces blame for Black juveniles but increases blame for White juveniles
Authors: Gilbert Elizabeth A. , Guinn Alexander D. , Reppucci N. Dickon
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Both Black juveniles and low-socioeconomic status (SES) juveniles are disproportionately represented in the U.S. legal system. Yet minimal experimental work has teased apart how a juvenile's race and SES interact when affecting judgments about guilt, blame, and punishment.

Methods

Two vignette experiments (N= 1074) varied a juvenile defendant's race (Black or White) and SES (low or high) in two types of crimes (stereotypically Black or stereotypically White).

Results

Race and SES interacted: across crime type, high-SES White juveniles were assigned more guilt and blame whereas high-SES Black juveniles were assigned less guilt and blame than their low-SES counterparts. Low-SES Black juveniles were also judged relatively harshly when their guilt was certain or when excluding participants who guessed the study was about race or SES. Moreover, stereotype-related judgments such as likelihood of recidivism and character mediated these effects.

Discussion

These surprising results highlight the need to investigate the intersection between race and SES. Potential explanations including aversive racism, social ecology, and changing stereotypes are considered.
Effects of canopy management of umbrella tree (Terminalia brownii Fres.) on microclimate and maize (Zea mays L.) yield in agroforestry parkland of South Ari District, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Handiso Mitiku Ayele , Asfaw Zebene , Glaser Bruno , Bromm Tobias , Gross Arthur , Lemma Bruk
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Traditionally, some smallholder farmers in the South Ari District of southern Ethiopia retain natural forest remnant trees on their crop fields, and they manage them through pruning and pollarding techniques. Among these, the umbrella tree (Terminalia brownii) is one of the most preferred and dominant species, with numerous multipurpose uses. However, the effects of canopy management on microclimate and crop yield have not yet been investigated. Here, we present the effects of Terminalia brownii canopy management on microclimate and maize yield in agroforestry parkland.

Methods

Microclimate and maize yield data from three radial distances from the tree trunks to the open field: D1 (0–4.1 m), D2 (4.1–8.2 m), and D3 (>15 m outside the tree canopy cover) were collected. Three tree canopy management treatments (pollarding, pruning, and control) were considered and replicated three times in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) for applying canopy management treatments.

Results and discussion

Our results revealed that the canopy management of the tree affected the microclimate, which in turn influenced maize yield. In all treatments, there were statistically significant differences (p < 0.05) observed in maize yield and yield components under tree canopy and open fields of both canopy-managed trees and control. The mean highest grain yields were observed in plots with pruned (3,717 kg ha−1) and pollarded (3,718 kg ha−1) trees, while the lowest yield (2,146 kg ha−1) was obtained from the control plot. The observed differences in yield might be due to a higher accumulation of soil nutrients, modified microclimate under the tree canopy, and reduced shading effects via canopy management. Therefore, we conclude that either pruning or pollarding of Terminalia brownii enhances maize yield by modifying microclimate and improving soil nutrients. Pruning, in particular, offers a balance of shade and light, creating a stable microclimate with consistent seasonal light and reduced temperature fluctuations, which supports better maize growth in agroforestry systems.
Diagenesis of Deep Low Permeability Reservoir in Huizhou Sag and Its Influence on Reservoirs
Authors: Jiang Shan , Guo Rong , Jiang Shuyu , Cai Jun
Published: December 2024

The Paleogene Enping Formation in the Huizhou Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin, has been identified as a key target for deep oil and gas exploration. However, research on the diagenesis of these deep reservoirs still remains limited. This study evaluated the role played by diagenetic processes on the reservoir quality of the Paleogene Enping Formation in the Huizhou Sag, Pearl River Mouth Basin, from braided river deltas to meandering river deltas. A core observation, thin section examination, cathode luminescence analysis, scanning electron microscopy, mercury penetration, porosity–permeability test, and other analytical methods were performed to analyze the diagenesis and its impact on the physical properties of the deep, low-permeability sandstone reservoirs in the Enping Formation within the study area. It was shown that the reservoir composition maturity of the Paleogene Enping Formation in Huizhou Sag is relatively high, and the reservoir space is dominated by dissolved pores, accounting for more than 48.2%. The deep and ultra-deep clastic reservoirs are typically characterized by “low porosity, low permeability, and strong heterogeneity”. In particular, the reservoir space of the deep, low-permeability reservoir of the Enping Formation is significantly affected by diagenesis in which mechanical compaction notably altered the porosity of the Enping Formation reservoir, with a reduction in pore volume ranging from 12.5 to 27.2% (average 18.9%); cementation usually enhances pore reduction by between 2.1 and 28.7% (average 11.7%), while dissolution has resulted in an increase in pore volume ranging from 1.4 to 25.6% (average 10.1%). A further analysis revealed that the deep reservoir type in this region is characterized by “densification”, as evidenced by the correlation between reservoir porosity–permeability evolution and hydrocarbon accumulation.
Decoding the Genes Orchestrating Egg and Sperm Fusion Reactions and Their Roles in Fertility
Authors: Khan Ranjha , Azhar Muhammad , Umair Muhammad
Published: December 2024

Mammalian fertilization is a complex and highly regulated process that has garnered significant attention, particularly with advancements in assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). The fusion of egg and sperm involves a sequence of molecular and cellular events, including capacitation, the acrosome reaction, adhesion, and membrane fusion. Critical genetic factors, such as IZUMO1, JUNO (also known as FOLR4), CD9, and several others, have been identified as essential mediators in sperm–egg recognition and membrane fusion. Additionally, glycoproteins such as ZP3 within the zona pellucida are crucial for sperm binding and triggering the acrosome reaction. Recent gene-editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9 and conditional knockout models, have facilitated the functional annotation of genes such as SPAM1 and ADAM family members, further elucidating their roles in capacitation and adhesion. Furthermore, the integration of CRISPR-Cas9 with omics technologies, including transcriptomics, proteomics, and lipidomics, has unlocked new avenues for identifying previously unknown genetic players and pathways involved in fertilization. For instance, transcriptomics can uncover gene expression profiles during gamete maturation, while proteomics identifies key protein interactions critical for processes such as capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Lipidomics adds another dimension by revealing how membrane composition influences gamete fusion. Together, these tools enable the discovery of novel genes, pathways, and molecular mechanisms involved in fertility, providing insights that were previously unattainable. These approaches not only deepen our molecular understanding of fertility mechanisms but also hold promise for refining diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions for infertility. This review summarizes the current molecular insights into genes orchestrating fertilization and highlights cutting-edge methodologies that propel the field toward novel discoveries. By integrating these findings, this review aims to provide valuable knowledge for clinicians, researchers, and technologists in the field of reproductive biology and assisted reproductive technologies.
Study of the Static Performance of Guyed Towers in High-Voltage Transmission Lines
Authors: Chen Haoyuan , Wang Yongan , Yin Hong , Xia Liwei , Wan Hengbang , Kalungi Musoke Paul , Zhu Aizhu
Published: December 2024

Guyed towers in high-voltage transmission lines consist of the tower body, guy wire system, and foundation. A well-designed guy wire system with optimized tension levels is essential to maintain the stability of the tower under wind loads and other external forces. In practical operation, to prevent excessive corrosion of the pinned metal components at the tower base, these connections are often encased in concrete, altering the base connection conditions and affecting the structural forces on the tower. This study develops a finite element analysis model based on two guyed tower structures from a high-voltage transmission line project. By measuring the actual tensions of the guy wire and testing the basic material performance, this model considers the effects of varying base connection conditions and different guy wire tension levels. Under designed ice load and extreme wind load conditions, the analysis focuses on changes in tower body stress, tower-top displacement and inclination, and guy wire forces. The results indicate that when the tower base is uniformly pinned or fixed, the initial guy wire tension has minimal impact on maximum tower stress but significantly affects maximum tower displacement and inclination when the tower was under the ice and wind load conditions. The base connection condition has a pronounced impact on the stress states of the tower and guy wire system, especially under the designed wind loads. In particular, when the base is fixed, the maximum base stress in Tower 1 under the wind loads is 270% higher than in a pinned condition. The initial guy wire tension level significantly affects the guy wire force under the ice and wind loads; for example, when Tower 1 is subjected to approximately 85% of the design level of high wind load, some guy wires reach full relaxation prematurely, presenting localized strength failure risks at the tower foot, potentially threatening the tower safety under extreme design loads.
Approximate and Exact Controllability for Hilfer Fractional Stochastic Evolution Equations
Authors: Li Qien , Luo Danfeng
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the controllability of Hilfer fractional stochastic evolution equations (HFSEEs). Initially, we obtain a conclusion regarding the approximate controllability of HFSEEs by employing the Tikhonov-type regularization method and Schauder′s fixed-point theorem. Additionally, the conditions for the exact controllability of HFSEEs are explored, utilizing the Mönch′s fixed-point theorem and measure of noncompactness. Finally, the proposed method is validated through an example, thereby demonstrating its effectiveness.
The Development of a Certification and Grading Procedure for German SCI Units
Authors: Abel Rainer , Rehahn Kerstin
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Spinal cord injury (SCI) care in Germany was established after the Second World War, following Guttman’s philosophy that post-SCI rehabilitation should not be separated from the acute treatment phase. Reimbursement is negotiated with only rudimentary eligibility requirements. Over time, however, more and more centers have emerged that offer “only” rehabilitation. Therefore, in 2014, the German-Speaking Paraplegic Society (DMGP) saw the need to establish a certification and grading process to protect existing centers and enable qualified reimbursement negotiations. Methods: In a modified delpi process, key data reflecting the human resources and equipment of the units were collected, and, after lengthy consensus negotiations, a grading was proposed which recognizes four levels of performance. Level Ia—24/7 coverage for all SCI-related emergencies (including intensive care unit care and surgery)—to Level IIb (rehab only, no intensive care unit). Results: In 2019, the grading was accepted by the extended board of the DMGP, and all but one of the 27 SCI centers applied to be graded and certified according to a self-reported questionnaire (2020). Conclusions: The development of the certification requirements and grading system was a complicated process, but it was possible to reach a solution which allowed its acceptance by all German SCI centers. Whether it will result in better care for the patients remains to be seen.
Is Hip Muscle Flexibility Associated with Low Back Pain Among First-Year Undergraduate Students?
Authors: Abbas Janan , Reif Noa , Hamoud Kamal
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Hip muscle lengthening is commonly associated with the normal function of the lumbar spine and lower extremities. Some evidence correlates hamstring and iliopsoas tightness with low back pain (LBP). Undergraduates are more prone to LBP as they are involved in prolonged sitting and poor posture. This study aims to assess the impact of hip muscle lengthening on LBP. Methods: This article involves a descriptive study of 70 students who were recruited from Zefat Academic College. Measurement of hamstrings and iliopsoas muscle lengthening, as well as a constructive questionnaire, were used. Results: The majority of participants (80% for hamstrings and 96% for iliopsoas) manifested normal muscle lengthening. Muscle flexibility was significantly higher among females. Logistic regression analyses revealed that hamstring lengthening (right) and stress-related study are significantly associated with LBP. Conclusions: The current study indicates that muscle length is female-dependent and right–left muscle length is symmetrical. Increased hamstring length could be related to LBP.
An Automatic Generalization Method of a Block-Based Digital Depth Model Based on Surface Curvature Features
Authors: Wang Dong , Dong Jian , Tang Lulu , Ma Mengkai , Xie Tian
Published: December 2024

Addressing the limitations of current multi-scale seabed terrain construction methods for a Digital Depth Model (DDM) and the low computational efficiency of automatic generalization algorithms, this paper draws on the concept of curvature simplification from 3D point cloud data processing and proposes a block-based DDM automatic generalization method that leverages surface curvature features. Initially, a clustering blocking model is established using an improved K-means algorithm for partitioning DDM data. Subsequently, a fitting surface is constructed based on the neighboring depth points within the blocked DDM to obtain the surface curvature characteristics of each depth point, which serve as the criterion for the DDM automatic generalization process. By integrating a multi-threaded parallel computation model, an efficient automated generalization workflow that encompasses data partitioning, fitting, computation, processing, and integration of the DDM is ultimately constructed. Furthermore, this paper designs validity and comparative experiments to analyze the proposed algorithm through experimental analysis. The results demonstrate that the algorithm can be applied to the multi-scale construction of DDM seabed terrain, while maintaining the integrity of both flat and complex seabed landforms, and significantly enhancing the computational efficiency of the DDM automatic generalization process.
Rh(II)/Pd(0) Dual Catalysis: Carbenoid N-H Insertion/Allylation Cascade Reaction to Construct Highly Functionalized and Polysubstituted Pyrrolidines
Authors: Tang Maocheng , Jiao Xianyan , He Deping , Zhao Ji-Xing , Liu Ping , Li Chun-Tian
Published: December 2024

In the category of drugs approved by the U.S. FDA, pyrrolidine is the most frequently used core of five-membered nonaromatic heterocycles containing nitrogen. Herein, a Rh(II)/Pd(0) dual-catalyzed carbenoid N-H insertion/allylation cascade reaction has been developed. This protocol provide an efficient approach for the construction of diverse highly functionalized and polysubstituted pyrrolidines in high yields (up to 91%) with excellent chemoselectivities and high diastereoselectivities (>20:1) under mild reaction conditions.
Hierarchically Porous Carbon Microspheres Coated with MnO2 Nanosheets as the Sulfur Host for High-Loading Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Dai Liqin , Yi Zonglin , Xie Lijing , Su Fangyuan , Guo Xiaoqian , Wang Zhenbing , Cheng Jiayao , Chen Chengmeng
Published: December 2024

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries have emerged as a promising candidate for next-generation high-energy rechargeable lithium batteries, but their practical application is impeded by the sluggish redox kinetics and low sulfur loading. Here, we report the in situ growth of δ-MnO2 nanosheets onto hierarchical porous carbon microspheres (HPCs) to form an HPCs/S@MnO2 composite for advanced lithium–sulfur batteries. The delicately designed hybrid architecture can effectively confine LiPSs and obtain high sulfur loading up to 10 mg cm−2, in which the inner carbon microspheres with a large pore volume and large specific surface area can encapsulate high sulfur content, and the outer MnO2 nanosheets, as a catalytic layer, can improve the conversion reaction of LiPSs and suppress the shuttle effect. The thick HPCs/S@MnO2 electrode with 7 mg cm−2 sulfur loading delivers an areal capacity of 4.0 mAh cm−2 at 0.1 C and provides stable cycling stability with a low-capacity decay rate of 0.063 % per cycle after 200 cycles at 0.1 C. Furthermore, a Li–S pouch cell with a capacity of 2.5 A h is fabricated and demonstrates high cycling stability. This work offers a feasible method to build advanced sulfur electrodes with high areal loading and sheds light on their commercial application in high-performance Li–S batteries.
Insights into the Silylation of Benzodiazepines Using N,O-Bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide (BSTFA): In Search of Optimal Conditions for Forensic Analysis by GC-MS
Authors: Vargas Mena Eleazar , Herrera Giraldo Eliana R. , Gómez Castaño Jovanny A.
Published: December 2024

Silylation is a widely used derivatization technique for the gas chromatographic analysis of benzodiazepines, a class of psychoactive drugs commonly encountered in forensic and biological samples. This study investigated the optimal experimental conditions for the silylation of benzodiazepines using N,O-bis(trimethylsilyl)trifluoroacetamide containing 1% trimethylchlorosilane (BSTFA + 1% TMCS), a widely employed silylating agent. Ten structurally different benzodiazepines, including variations within the classic 1,4-benzodiazepine core and triazolo ring derivatives, were selected to address the effect of structural diversity on silylation. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were used to optimize the silylation of benzodiazepines by means of GC-MS analysis. PCA identified key experimental factors influencing silylation efficiency and distinct response patterns of different benzodiazepines. HCA further categorized the benzodiazepines based on their silylation behavior, highlighting the need for tailored derivatization strategies. The results indicated that the BSTFA + 1% TMCS concentration and solvent volume were pivotal for achieving high silylation efficiency, whereas the temperature, reaction time, and catalyst were less critical. The optimized method was successfully applied to 30 real forensic samples, demonstrating its efficacy in detecting and identifying various benzodiazepines, including designer drugs like etizolam. This study provides a foundation for improving drug detection methodologies in forensic toxicology and provides useful insights into the dynamics of benzodiazepine silylation and the use of individualized analysis parameters.
Enhanced Circularly Polarized Green Luminescence Metrics from New Enantiopure Binary Tris-Pyrazolonate-Tb3+ Complexes
Authors: Liu Jiaxiang , Zhang Yongwen , Yao Ruijuan , Ren Haitao , Wang Weijie , Feng Haohao , Li Wentao , Miao Zongcheng
Published: December 2024

Achieving superior circularly polarized luminescence brightness (BCPL) is an important subject and continuous challenge for chiroptical materials. Herein, by applying a binary molecular design for the synthesis of chiral organo-Tb3+ molecules, a novel pair of mononuclear chiral tris-pyrazolate-Tb3+ enantiomers, [Tb(PMIP)3(R,R-Ph-PyBox)] (2) and [Tb(PMIP)3(S,S-Ph-PyBox)] (5), have been synthesized and characterized. The three 1-phenyl-3-methyl-4-(isobutyryl)-5-pyrazolone (HPMIP) ligands play the role of efficient luminescence sensitizers and strong light-harvesting antennas, while the enantiopure 2,6-bis(4-phenyl-2-oxazolin-2-yl) pyridine ligand (R,R/S,S-Ph-PyBox) is employed as the strong point-chiral inducer. With the proper combination of the HPMIP and Chiral-Ph-PyBox within the Tb3+ enantiomers, strong (PMIP)−-centered π-π* electronic absorption (ε263 nm = 38,400–39,500 M−1 cm−1) and brilliant high-purity ligand-sensitized Tb3+-centered green luminescence (ΦPL = 47–48%) were observed. In addition, a clear circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) activity (|glum| = 0.096–0.103) was also observed, resulting in a strong BCPL (610–623 M−1 cm−1) for the two Tb3+ enantiomers from the hypersensitive transitions. Our results offer an effective path to develop high-performance chiroptical organo-Tb3+ luminophores.
Gibberellin-Induced Transcription Factor SmMYB71 Negatively Regulates Salvianolic Acid Biosynthesis in Salvia miltiorrhiza
Authors: Han Cuicui , Dong Xingwen , Xing Xiaowen , Wang Yun , Feng Xiaobing , Sang Wenjuan , Feng Yifei , Yu Luyao , Chen Mengxuan , Hao Hongyuan , Huang Taohong , Li Bailin , Wu Wenhui , Zhou Zheng , He Ying
Published: December 2024

Salvia miltiorrhiza, the valuable traditional Chinese medicinal plant, has been used in clinics for thousands of years. The water-soluble salvianolic acid compounds are bioactive substances used in treating many diseases. Gibberellins (GAs) are growth-promoting phytohormones that regulate plant growth and development. Previous studies have demonstrated that GAs can promote salvianolic acid accumulation in S. miltiorrhiza; however, the underlying mechanism requires further investigation. Here, we identified a GA-induced R2R3MYB transcription factor (TF), SmMYB71, from a transcriptome library of GA-treated S. miltiorrhiza. SmMYB71 was highly expressed in the root of S. miltiorrhiza and localized to the nucleus. SmMYB71-knockout hairy roots showed higher salvianolic acid accumulation compared to wild lines. Overexpressing SmMYB71 in S. miltiorrhiza hairy roots significantly decreased the content of salvianolic acid by downregulating key salvianolic acid biosynthesis enzymes such as SmRAS and SmCYP98A14. The GCC box in the promoter of SmMYB71 can bind with SmERF115, suggesting that SmMYB71 is regulated by SmERF115 in salvianolic acid biosynthesis. These findings demonstrate a novel regulatory role of SmMYB71 in GA-mediated phenolic acid biosynthesis. With the development of CRISPR/Cas9-based genome editing technology, the SmMYB71 regulation mechanism of salvianolic acid biosynthesis provides a potential target gene for metabolic engineering to increase the quality of S. miltiorrhiza.
Bee Pollen as a Source of Biopharmaceuticals for Neurodegeneration and Cancer Research: A Scoping Review and Translational Prospects
Authors: Kacemi Rachid , Campos Maria G.
Published: December 2024

Bee Pollen (BP) has many advantageous properties relying on its multitargeting potential, a new tendency in managing many challenging illnesses. In cancer and neurodegeneration, the multiple effects of BP could be of unequaled importance and need further investigation. Although still limited, available data interestingly spotlights some floral sources with promising activities in line with this investigation. Adopting scoping review methodology, we have identified many crucial bioactivities that are widely recognized to individual BP compounds but remain completely untapped in this valuable bee cocktail. A wide range of these compounds have been recently found to be endowed with great potential in modulating pivotal processes in neurodegeneration and cancer pathophysiology. In addition, some ubiquitous BP compounds have only been recently isolated, while the number of studied BPs remains extremely limited compared to the endless pool of plant species worldwide. We have also elucidated that clinical profits from these promising perspectives are still impeded by challenging hurdles such as limited bioavailability of the studied phytocompounds, diversity and lack of phytochemical standardization of BP, and the difficulty of selective targeting in some pathophysiological mechanisms. We finally present interesting insights to guide future research and pave the way for urgently needed and simplified clinical investigations.
Quercetin Ameliorates Acute Lethal Sepsis in Mice by Inhibiting Caspase-11 Noncanonical Inflammasome in Macrophages
Authors: Kim Eojin , Choi Deok-Hyeong , Yi Young-Su
Published: December 2024

Quercetin is a natural polyphenolic flavonoid widely found in plants, fruits, and vegetables, and has been reported to play pharmacological roles in numerous pathogenic conditions. The anti-inflammatory effects of quercetin in various inflammatory conditions and diseases have been well-documented. However, its regulatory role in noncanonical inflammasome activation has not yet been demonstrated. This study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of quercetin in caspase-11 noncanonical inflammasome-activated inflammatory responses in macrophages and a mouse model of acute lethal sepsis. Quercetin protected J774A.1 macrophages from lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced cell death and caspase-11 noncanonical inflammasome-induced pyroptosis. It significantly decreased the production and mRNA expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-18, and IL-6, but not tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α, and inflammatory molecules, such as nitric oxide (NO) and inducible NO synthase in caspase-11 noncanonical inflammasome-activated J774A.1 cells. Mechanistically, quercetin strongly suppressed the autoproteolysis and secretion of caspase-11 and the proteolysis of gasdermin D in caspase-11 noncanonical inflammasome-activated J774A.1 cells. However, quercetin did not inhibit the direct binding of caspase-11 to LPS. In vivo, the study revealed that quercetin increased the survival rate of mice with acute lethal sepsis and decreased serum levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines without causing significant toxicity. In conclusion, this study highlights quercetin-mediated anti-inflammatory action in inflammatory responses and acute lethal sepsis through a novel mechanism that targets the caspase-11 noncanonical inflammasome in macrophages, suggesting quercetin as a promising anti-inflammatory agent in natural medicine.
Valence State and Catalytic Activity of Ni-Fe Oxide Embedded in Carbon Nanotube Catalysts
Authors: Lee Jaekwang , Lee Heesoo
Published: December 2024

The catalytic activity of Ni-Fe oxide embedded in CNTs was investigated in terms of valence states and active oxygen species. Ni-Fe oxides were prepared by the sol-gel combustion process, and Ni-Fe oxides embedded in CNT catalysts were synthesized by the catalytic chemical vapor deposition (CCVD) method. The lattice structure of the Ni-Fe oxide catalysts was analyzed, and the lattice distortion was increased with the addition of Fe. The specific surface areas and pore structures of the Ni-Fe oxides embedded in CNTs were determined through the BET method. The nano-sized Ni-Fe oxides embedded in CNTs were observed using morphology analysis. The crystallinity and defects of CNTs were analyzed by Raman spectroscopy, and the ID/IG ratio of Ni1.25Fe0.75O/CNT was the lowest at 0.36, representing the high graphitization and low structural defects of the CNT surface. The valence states of Fe and Ni were changed by the interaction between catalysts and CNTs. The redox property of the catalysts was evaluated by H2-TPR analysis, and the H2 consumption of Ni1.25Fe0.75O/CNT was the highest at 2.764 mmol/g. The catalytic activity of Ni-Fe oxide embedded in CNT exhibited much higher activity than Ni-Fe oxide for the selective catalytic reduction of NOx with NH3 in the temperature range of 100 °C to 450 °C.
LEITURA E ESCRITA NO ENSINO PRIMÁRIO PARANAENSE PELA PRÁTICA DOCENTE EM MEADOS DO SÉC. XIX
Authors: Souza Gizele de , Ferreira França Franciele
Published: December 2024

Nos documentos provindos dos sujeitos envolvidos com a instrução pública da província paranaense, há indicações de uso de livros para o ensino da leitura e escrita das crianças, encontram-se também registros de outros materiais para a realização desse ensino, como, por exemplo, cartas, alfabetos, cartazes, jornais. No uso desse conjunto material, professores configuraram uma prática docente pautada em sua experiência no ofício, diante disso a análise recai, principalmente, sobre as ações e apropriações dos professores em decorrência do uso de materiais que instrumentalizam o ensino escolar, com o objetivo de discutir a noção de autoria do fazer docente, além de evidenciar a constituição de uma cultura escolar e de uma cultura material escolar por meio dos fazeres ordinários desses sujeitos. Do ponto de vista teórico-metodológico, no exame das fontes, tomam-se como referência os estudos acerca da materialidade escolar, da cultura escolar e práticas escolares/docentes, ancorando-se na perspectiva do fazer e emendar de Martin Lawn e Ian Grosvenor (2001), consumo de Michel de Certeau (2012) e cultura escolar de Escolano Benito (2017). Empiricamente, a pesquisa se fez principalmente nos relatórios de professores primários, nos quais é possível vislumbrar resquícios de práticas docente atreladas à materialidade escolar. Deste modo, interessa-nos examinar, por meio desta documentação, como as escolhas de materiais pedagógicos, métodos e dinâmicas de trabalho, por professores primários, caracterizam-se como credenciais do exercício do ofício docente.