bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STRUCTURE FORMATION OF IRON-CONTAINING DISPERSIONS OF ORGANOMONTMORYLONITE
Authors: Zhdaniuk Nataliia
Published: September 2024

The aim of the work is to study the processes of structure formation of organomontmorillonite in iron-containing dispersions by studying the rheological and colloid-chemical properties of such systems. To modify the surface of montmorillonite, a cationic surface-active substance, a quaternary ammonium salt, hexadecyltriammonium bromide, was used. With the help of X-ray diffraction analysis, we confirmed the penetration of molecules of surface-active substances into the interlayer space of the mineral and its increase to 1.86 nm during the modification mineral surfactant/ cation exchange capacity (S/CEC)=1. The analysis of the results of rheological studies showed that the changes in the characteristics of montmorillonite dispersions depending on the concentration of surfactants are extreme and reach a maximum (6.7 Pa) at the degree of modification of the mineral S/CEC=0.3. The high values of ultimate shear stress confirm the formation of a continuous network between the mineral particles with an "edge–face" orientation. When the surfactant content in the system increases, the ultimate shear stress of the suspension gradually decreases and reaches practically zero values. These results lay the foundation for determining the optimal parameters for the synthesis of iron-containing dispersions based on organomontmorillonite. nZVI was obtained by its reduction on the solid surface of organomodified montmorillonite from a solution of iron(II) sulfate salt. X-ray diffraction data confirmed the fixation of nZVI on the surface of organophilized montmorillonite. Analysis of the results of rheological studies showed that changes in the characteristics of dispersions of iron-containing material based on organomontmorillonite depending on the content of nZVI are extreme and reach a maximum at (6.8 Pa) when the iron content in the sorbent is 0.01 mass fraction in the solid phase of the sorbent. When the content of nZVI is increased to 0.05 mass fraction of the solid phase of the sorbent, it is possible to obtain dispersions with high values of ultimate shear stress (3.3 Pa) and clearly expressed hysteresis loops, which indicates the formation of thixotropic structures and confirms the possibility of its use in permeable reaction barriers. Experimental data confirm that with an increase in the content of nZVI above 0.1 mass fraction in the samples, the ultimate stress and plastic viscosity decrease, which leads to the failure of the suspensions. These results lay foundation for determining the optimal parameters of sorbents synthesis and regulation of their properties by changing the hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance of source systems.
RESPON PERTUMBUHAN DAN PRODUKSI TIGA VARIETAS BAYAM MERAH (Amaranthus tricolor L.) AKIBAT APLIKASI DOSIS NITROGEN BERBASIS PUPUK ORGANIK CAIR URINE KELINCI
Authors: Az-Zahra Nathania Philothra
Published: September 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji respon pertumbuhan dan produksi tiga varietas tanaman bayam merah dan dosis optimal nitrogen berbasis pupuk organik cair urine kelinci. Penelitian dilaksanakan pada bulan Mei – Juli 2022 di Greenhouse dan Laboratorium Fisiologi dan Pemuliaan Tanaman dan Laboratorium Ekologi dan Produksi Tanaman, Fakultas Peternakan dan Pertanian, Universitas Diponegoro, Semarang. Rancangan percobaan yang digunakan adalah Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) faktorial 3×4 dan 3 ulangan. Faktor pertama adalah varietas tanaman bayam merah yaitu : V1 (Mira), V2 (Baret Merah), V3 (Delima). Faktor kedua adalah dosis nitrogen berbasis pupuk organik cair urine kelinci (P) yaitu 0 kg N/ha atau kontrol (P0), 39,14 kg N/ha (P1), 70,40 kg N/ha (P2), dan 97,10 kg N/ha (P3). Berdasarkan penelitian yang telah dilakukan dapat disimpulkan bahwa tanaman bayam merah varietas Mira, Baret Merah, dan Delima menunjukkan perbedaan pada karakter jumlah daun, kandungan klorofil total dan kandungan karotenoid. Aplikasi dosis nitrogen berbasis pupuk organik cair urine kelinci berpengaruh terhadap karakter tinggi tanaman, jumlah daun, berat segar tajuk, berat segar akar, berat kering tajuk dan berat kering akar. Namun taraf antar perlakuan pemberian dosis nitrogen berbasis pupuk organik cair urine kelinci menunjukkan tidak berbeda nyata karena dosis nitrogen yang digunakan kurang dari rekomendasi.
UJI ANTIBIOSIS Bacillus sp. TERHADAP Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cepae PATOGEN LAYU FUSARIUM BAWANG MERAH SECARA IN VITRO
Authors: Prihatiningsih Nur
Published: September 2024

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae merupakan patogen layu fusarium atau moler pada bawang merah. Pengendalian menggunakan agen hayati seperti Bacillus sp. merupakan suatu alternatif pengendalian yang dapat diterapkan. Bacillus sp. memiliki mekanisme pengendalian seperti antibiosis, kompetisi dan penginduksi ketahanan tanaman sistemik. Metabolit sekunder yang dihasilkan Bacillus sp. menunjukan aktivitas anti bakteri dan anti jamur.  Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui kemampuan Bacillus sp. isolat rizosfer bawang merah untuk mengendalikan Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cepae secara in vitro.  Penelitian ini menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) lima perlakuan dan empat ulangan dengan metode biakan ganda.  Perlakuanya yaitu K0 (kontrol), BM1,  BM2, BM3 dan BM4. Potongan miselium F. oxysporum f.sp. cepae diletakan pada medium PDA, satu hari kemudian dengan jarak 3 cm digoreskan bakteri Bacillus sp. Variabel yang diamati yakni persentase daya hambat dan mekanisme penghambatan terhadap jamur F.oxysporum f.sp. cepae pada uji daya hambat secara mikroskopis. Hasil penelitian menunjukan keempat isolat Bacillus sp. rizosfer bawang merah menunjukan adanya zona hambat yang terbentuk. Persentase daya hambat yang ditunjukkan  bervariasi, dengan perlakuan Bacillus sp isolat 3 (BM3) tertinggi sebesar 11,41% dan perlakuan Bacillus sp. isolat 2 (BM2) menunjukan persentase daya hambat terendah yakni 9,39%. Pengamatan secara mikroskopis menunjukan pertumbuhan hifa F. oxysporum tidak normal, yaitu terjadi pembengkakan,  lisis dan mengerut. Abnormalitas yang ditunjukan akibat adanya mekanisme antibiosis yang merupakan salah satu mekanisme pengendalian dari Bacillus sp.
A Mathematical Model for Determining the Facility Layout Plan of a Plastic Injection Factory
Authors: Kaklıkkaya Harun , Çetin Fatma , Uyumaz Şule , Saraç Tuğba
Published: September 2024

In this study, a mathematical model has been developed to make the facility layout planning of the annex building, which is being built right next to the old building of a factory that produces plastic parts. Some or all parts of the departments, such as injection machines, semi-finished products, product, raw material warehouses, molding room, and paint shop in the old building of the factory can be moved to the new building. Nevertheless, some cannot be moved. Since injection machines use cranes for electricity, plumbing, and mold transport, relocation is very costly. Different layouts are proposed with the developed mathematical model for seven scenarios that allow and do not allow partitions of the departments. The proposed layout plans were compared in terms of the total carrying costs of the products and the carrying costs of the sections. In this way, the factory has been presented with a significant cost reduction opportunity.
Impacto de la concentración de partículas atmosféricas en las enfermedades respiratorias de la población de la ciudad de Los Ángeles, Chile
Authors: Jiménez Jorge , Fernández Alessandra , Mardones Cristian
Published: September 2024

La ciudad de Los Ángeles, ubicada en centro-sur de Chile, tiene graves problemas de calidad del aire en los meses de invierno por el uso de leña para calefacción residencial. Por lo anterior, se evaluaron los efectos de la mala calidad del aire en la salud de la población vinculando las concentraciones de partículas atmosféricas con las atenciones médicas por causas respiratorias y circulatorias entre 2013 y 2019. Específicamente, se utilizaron modelos lineales generalizados (Poisson y binomial negativo) para relacionar la concentración de partículas atmosféricas respirables (PM10) y finas (PM2.5) con las atenciones de urgencias e ingresos hospitalarios, considerando los siguientes grupos etarios: menores de 15 años, de 15 a 64 años y mayores de 65 años. Los resultados muestran que un aumento de 100 μg/m3 en la concentración diaria de PM2.5 incrementó en 3 y 2 % las consultas de urgencia en los grupos etarios de menores de 15 años y de 15 a 64 años, respectivamente. Por otro lado, el riesgo de hospitalización aumentó 7 % para el primer grupo etario cuando la concentración de PM10 aumentó en 100 μg/m3. Sin embargo, no se observaron efectos significativos por causas circulatorias.
Single−molecule Level Quantification Reveals the Interaction between Melittin and Lipopolysaccharide by Atomic Force Microscopy
Authors: Huang Sheng , Su Guoqi , Yang Li , Yue Liangguang , Chen Li , Huang Jinxiu , Yang Feiyun
Published: September 2024

The interaction forces and mechanical properties of the interaction between melittin (Mel) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) are considered a crucial driving force for Mel in killing Gram−negative bacteria (GNB). However, how their interaction forces are performed at the single−molecule level and the dissociation kinetic characteristics of the Mel/LPS complex remain poorly understood. In this study, the single−molecule level interaction forces between Mel and LPSs from E. coil K−12, O55:B5, O111:B4, and O128:B12 were explored using atomic force microscopy (AFM) based single−molecule force spectroscopy (SMFS). Further, the AFM−based dynamic force spectroscopy (DFS) and advanced analytical model were employed to investigate the kinetic characteristics of the Mel/LPSs complex dissociation. The results indicated that Mel could interact with both rough (R)−form LPS (E. coli K−12) and smooth (S)−form LPSs (E. coli O55:B5, O111:B4, O128:B12), and the S−form LPSs showed a more robust interaction with Mel than R−form LPS, and a slight difference existed in the interaction forces between Mel and diverse S−form LPSs. The Mel interacts with S−form LPSs showed greater specific and non−specific interaction forces than R−form LPS (p < 0.05), as determined by AFM−based SMFS. However, there was no significant difference in the specific and non−specific interaction forces among the three S−form LPSs (p > 0.05), indicating the variability of O−antigen could not affect the interaction between Mel and LPSs. The DFS result showed that the Mel/S−form LPSs complexes had a lower dissociation rate constant (koff), a shorter energy barrier width (xβ), a longer bond lifetime (τoff), and a higher height of the energy barrier (∆G), demonstrating that Mel could interact with S−form LPSs to form more stable complexes. In conclusion, this study promotes our knowledge of the interaction micromechanics and kinetics characteristics between Mel and LPS at the single−molecule level. Moreover, it can help us design and evaluate new anti−GNB drugs.
Production Planning for Manufacturing of Car Parts
Authors: Zarei Hanzaki Milad
Published: September 2024

Production planning managers need much information within the organization to create the best production plan. This information is scattered throughout the organization. The planning unit must gather data from sales orders and specified priorities, and use information from production capacity assessments, in-line inventory levels, and many other variables to develop a reliable production plan. This research aims to examine the production planning system at a car part manufacturing company, diagnose the current issues in this area, and endeavor to develop a hierarchical production planning model at the AP levels for the company through a mixed-integer linear programming model.
Yoga and Mindfulness: Enhancing Executive Skills in Transitional Economies
Authors: Smith Mary , Singh Saran
Published: September 2024

This study explores the potential of yoga in developing crucial executive competencies within the context of transitional economies in Eastern Europe. As public sector enterprises face increasing competition, both domestically and internationally, there is a growing need for executives to acquire new skills. Through the lens of mindfulness, this research investigates the impact of yoga on the helping behavior and cultural intelligence of business leaders in a transitional economy. The findings reveal that yoga practices significantly enhanced participants' helping behavior and cultural intelligence. The study demonstrates that approximately two-thirds of the impact on helping behavior can be attributed to increased mindfulness, with the remaining one-third stemming directly from yoga practice. In terms of cultural intelligence, the results indicate that 88% of the improvement is due to heightened mindfulness, while 12% is directly attributable to yoga practices.
Effect of ammoniated rice straw with urine and urea on the amount of digested crude protein, methane gas production and VFA profile of fat tail sheep
Authors: Saputro Wahyu Subagio , Efendi Kabib , Aurashka Sitta Noratuada , Sarie Novita Alvita
Published: September 2024

Objective: This research aimed to find out the VFAs profile and methane gas production in fat-tailed sheep that fed rice straw ammoniated with commercial urea (T1), and rice straw ammoniated with urine (T2). Eight thin-tailed sheep aged 1.5 with an average body weight of 20 kg were used in this study. All the object studies were placed in individual metabolism cages. The feed concentrate used in this study was 2.3 % from the body weight of livestock, rice straw was ammoniated and water was given ad libitum, and feed was given twice a day at 7.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. Concentrate were given first, then 1 hour later the ammoniated rice straw was given. The drinking water was provided ad libitum.

Methods: This research was conducted in three stages, 1) total collection, 2) measure methane gas production, and 3) rumen fluid collection. A completely randomized design with 2 treatments and 4 replications was used in this study. After all data was collected, then it was analyzed using the Independent T-test using IBM SPSS Statistics 21 software.

Results: The results show no significance (P > 0.05) on rice straw ammoniated with commercial urea (T1), and rice straw ammoniated with urine (T2) for methane gas production (1,328.68±349.56 vs 1,463.95±215.41), VFA Total (40.74±13.09 vs 34.79±6.34), NH3 production (9.17±3.67 vs 8.78±2.94). It indicates that ammoniated using commercial urea or urine does not interrupt rumen fermentation.

Conclusions: It could be concluded that crude protein digestible, methane gas production, and VFAs profile especially the fermentation conditions in the rumen are not affected by ammoniation from commercial urea or urine.
DETERMINATION OF THE SELF-EXCITATION REGION OF AN INDUCTION MOTOR IN A MULTI-MOTOR ELECTRIC DRIVE
Authors: Shamardina Vira , Zemtsova Kateryna
Published: September 2024

Abstract. In the modern operation of enterprises, the requirements for energy efficiency and performance of electric drives are always increasing. In multi-motor electric drives of hoisting mechanisms with asynchronous motors with a phase rotor, the use of dynamic braking with self-excitation is aimed at solving these issues. Proper operation requires knowledge of the mechanical characteristics of motors. However, the known methods for calculating the characteristics require refinement and detailed analysis, which necessitates the use of modern application software packages in the calculations. The aim of the study is to determine the influence of the parameters of a multi-motor induction electric drive on the self-excitation region of motors in the mode of dynamic braking with self-excitation. As a result of the work, analytical dependencies describing the mechanical characteristics of motors in the DBS mode and structural algorithmic models in the Simulink Matlab package for determining the AD self-excitation region were obtained.
Late Life Asset Management: Field T Value Optimization as the First Malaysian EOR Asset
Authors: Said Hani Mohd , Radzuan Fatin Raihanna , Zainol Amin Akmal , Mokhtar Affidah , Tajuddin Izzat Irfan Ahmad , Ghapor Zamri Abd
Published: September 2024

Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) via Water Alternating Gas (WAG) injection has given a new lease of life to Field T that has been producing for over 40 years. As the first large-scale, full-field offshore implementation of WAG EOR endeavor globally, this development that kicked off in 2014 has presented its fair share of challenges and successes. Since embarking on this journey, the field's capacity has grown by 300% in the span of eight years thanks to three key strategies in wells integrity management, maintaining EOR WAG efficiency and topside reliability maintenance.

For wells integrity management, prevention efforts are carried out via periodic downhole corrosion inhibitor injections of identified high-risk wells susceptible to corrosion and erosion. Caliper surveys and noise logs are also carried out to establish a baseline and identify any leaks which will be rectified either via non-rig wellwork intervention or rig workovers. In terms of dynamic reservoir management, detailed surveillance on the Gas-Oil Ratio and watercut is key to determining the optimum duration of water and gas injection cycles. Continuous gas lift optimization is also carried out as the amount of gas lift needed by each well changes between gas and water injection cycles. Lastly, maintaining topside reliability in key critical equipment such as WAG charge pumps, water injection pumps and gas compressor cooling pumps is crucial. This is necessary to maintain the ability to continuously inject gas and water to process the reservoir and sweep more oil. This was carried out via Single Point of Failure assessments and automation to optimize downtime.

By implementing these strategies, Field T currently boasts the highest percentage of active strings count in EMEPMI at 71% and improved topside uptime from 10% pre-EOR to less than 5% average post-EOR. The field capacity has also successfully grown by 300% in the span of eight years.

Figure 1 3 key strategies and focus areas in maximizing the value of EOR in Field T
MAD2-overexpressing interphase cell death (MOID)
Authors: Niikura Yohei , Xi Yao , Xu Rui , Chen Shengnan , Fang Jiezhu , Duan Xiang , Zhang Yidan , Zhong Guoli , He Zhifei , Guo Yan , Li Xinyu , Tao Wenzhi , Li Yang , Chen Lilan , Xu Haoming , Zhou Xinbo , Li Yan , Fang Lei
Published: September 2024

An in-depth comprehension of the molecular mechanisms behind the targeted eradication of cancer cells through cell death represents a requisite for effective anticancer treatments. However, the precise mechanism by which cell divisionrelated factors interact with intracellular organelles in the context of cancer cell death remains unclear. Mitotic arrest deficiency 2 (MAD2/MAD2L1), a pivotal component of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), and its overexpression also resulted in many types of cancer. Here we show that the depletion of a microtubule-binding protein, tumor susceptibility gene 101 (TSG101), causes synthetic dosage lethality (SDL) in MAD2-overexpressing cells, and we term this cell death MAD2- overexpressing interphase cell death (MOID). MOID induction is p53-independent but AIFM1-dependent and caspase-activated cell death. The induction of MOID depends on PML and DAXX mediating mitochondrial AIFM1-release. C-terminal phosphorylations of TSG101 and closed (C-)MAD2-overexpression are required to induce MOID. Additionally, a part of MAD2 colocalizes with PML at PML nuclear bodies (PML NBs), and the PML release from PML NBs through PML deSUMOylation is required to induce MOID. The post-transcriptional/translational cell death machinery and the non-canonical transcriptional regulation of oxidative stress and ATM/ATR-mediated DNA double-strand breaks (DSB) - DNA damage response (DDR) are intricately linked to MOID. MOID is also associated with the activation of ROS and autophagy. PML localized at the mitochondria-associated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) membranes (MAMs), i.e., ER-MAM, may serve as a crucial intersection for MOID signaling.
Comparison of efficacy and safety profiles of perioperative sufentanil and remifentanil: A systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis
Authors: Kim Hyo Jin , Choi Geun Joo , Kang HYUN
Published: September 2024

Background:
Sufentanil and remifentanil are commonly used during general anesthesia. This systematic review and meta-analysis with trial sequential analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aims to comprehensively evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety profiles of perioperative sufentanil and remifentanil administration in patients undergoing surgery under general anesthesia.
Methods:
This study was registered in INPLASY (INPLASY202270070). A comprehensive search was performed using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, Web of Science, and Google Scholar to identify all RCTs comparing the efficacy of the intraoperative use of sufentanil to that of remifentanil. The primary outcome were the postoperative pain scores measured using visual analogue scale (VAS) or numerical rating scales (NRS). The secondary outcomes were the postoperative analgesic use, time to first analgesic need, intraoperative hemodynamic profiles, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), incidence of respiratory depression, and recovery characteristics.
Results:
A total of 31 studies were included in the final analysis. Postoperative pain score was significantly higher in remifentanil group than that in sufentanil group (standardized mean difference [SMD] = -0.47; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.24 to 0.70). Postoperative analgesic amount used was lower in sufentanil group than that in remifentanil group. (SMD = 0.55; 95% CI = 0.12 to 0.99). In terms of hemodynamic profiles, intraoperative systolic blood pressure (weighed mean difference [WMD] = -6.30; 95% CI, = -10.76 to -1.85), mean arterial pressure (WMD = -6.38; 95% CI = -10.25 to -2.51), and heart rate (WMD = -4.16; 95% CI = -6.65 to -1.68) were lower in remifentanil group than in sufentanil group. Incidence of postoperative nausea (relative risk = 1.39; 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.71) was higher in remifentanil group than in sufentanil group. The remifentanil group showed a faster recovery profile than the sufentanil group.
Conclusions:
Compared with remifentanil, sufentanil demonstrated superior efficacy in postoperative pain management and superior safety profiles with respect to postoperative nausea and hemodynamic stability; however, remifentanil showed a faster recovery profile.
Systematic review registration
International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (INPLASY), NPLASY202270070)
Exploring evolutionary mechanisms of genomic divergence in Scurria limpets
Authors: Soto Paulina Carimán , Guillemin Marie-Laure , Giles Emily , Narváez Gabriela , Suescún Ana , Saenz-Agudelo Pablo
Published: September 2024

Decades of research in population genetics have revealed that genetic divergence between populations and species is not uniformly distributed throughout the genome, but rather exhibits a high degree of heterogeneity. This phenomenon has sparked debate regarding the evolutionary mechanisms responsible for this variability. This study delves into the patterns of genomic divergence in populations of three marine limpet species, Scurria scurra, Scurria araucana, and Scurria ceciliana, which inhabit both sides of two biogeographic breaks (30-34°S and 41-43°S). To investigate this, genomic divergence was analyzed using estimates of FST and DXY with a 20 kb sliding window approach across the entire genomes of 56 individuals. Highly divergent genomic regions ranging from 20 to 280 kilobases in size were identified, primarily associated with the allopatric divergence model in all three species, although significant signals of divergence with gene flow were observed in some regions. Sympatric populations of S. scurra and S. araucana, spanning the 30-34°S latitudinal range, exhibited heterogeneous divergence patterns. In S. ceciliana, the southernmost species with populations across the 41-43°S latitudinal range, the allopatric divergence and divergence with gene flow processes seem to have deeply affected the genomic architecture of divergence. This pattern was not expected for this species with an evolutionary history of populations being isolated in glacial refugia. Genetic divergence appears to be species-specific, with few shared regions, and genes relevant to lipid metabolism, response to oxidative stress, and mitochondrial functions were identified within regions of divergence. These findings highlight the complexity of genomic diversification in marine limpets.
Industrial policy and high-quality development of enterprise: The moderating role of business-government relations
Authors: Jiang Ying , Yin Guiku , Yang Zhongzhen
Published: September 2024

Industrial policy is a crucial instrument employed by the Chinese government to promote high-quality development of enterprises (HQDE). This study leverages the quasi-natural experiment formed by China's Chain Chief System (CCS) industrial policy, utilizing data from Chinese A-share listed companies during 2017–2022 and a difference-in-differences method to explore the relationships among industrial policy, HQDE, and business-government relations. Our findings indicate that the CCS policy can significantly promotes HQDE, with alleviating financing constraints and reducing agency costs identified as potential channels. Business-government relations play a pivotal role in moderating this positive relationship. Specifically, increases in state-owned equity proportions and geographical proximity between enterprises and government both enhance the promotional effect of CCS policy on HQDE. Furthermore, heterogeneity tests reveal that this promotional effect is more pronounced in state-owned enterprises, firms operating in high-tech industries, and those located in regions with less unfavorable business environments. These findings contribute to advancing debates on the effectiveness of industrial policies and deepens our understanding of the critical role of business-government relations.
Correlation Between Non-Stenotic Parent Artery Plaques and Lesion Imaging Features in Lenticulostriate Recent Small Subcortical Infarction: A High-Resolution Magnetic Resonance Imaging Study
Authors: Zhang Dandan , Zong Ce , Tao Yongli , Wu Zhengrong , Wang Sai , Gao Yuan , Xu Yuming
Published: September 2024

Previous studies have shown that lesions from recent small subcortical infarction (RSSI) with accompanying responsible vessel stenosis are closer to the openings of perforating branches and involve more slices on axial Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). However, it remains unclear whether similar lesion characteristics are also associated with non-stenotic responsible vessel plaques that can be detected only by high-resolution MRI (HR-MRI). We enrolled consecutive patients with RSSI in the lenticulostriate artery (LSA) territory between January 2020 and December 2022. Patients with no visible stenosis in the ipsilateral middle cerebral artery (MCA) who completed HR-MRI were enrolled. Lesion characteristics including the lowest slice involved (LS), total number of slices involved (TNS) and maximal axial diameter (MAD) of RSSI lesions were evaluated by serialized axial levels of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI). HR-MRI was used to assess the presence of dorsal superior plaques in the M1 segment of responsible MCA. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the lesion characteristics associated with the presence of dorsal superior plaques in the MCA. A receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve was employed to estimate the predictive efficacy of these parameters for MCA plaques using area under the ROC curve (AUC) and the optimal cut-off point. A total of 112 patients were included in the final analysis, with 57 (50.89%) having plaques detected on the dorsal superior wall of MCA. The average age of these patients was 57.08 years (57.08 ± 11.90 years), and 78 (69.64%) were male. Multivariate logistic regression showed that LS was significantly associated with MCA plaques (odds ratio [OR]: 0.674, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.485–0.937, p = 0.019). The optimal cut-off point (LS ≤ 1) was achieved by ROC curve analysis (AUC = 0.64, p = 0.007). The results indicate that in RSSI patients without responsible vascular stenosis, an LS ≤ 1 is significantly associated with the presence of dorsal superior plaques on the responsible vessel wall as detected by HR-MRI.
Evaluation of river discharges derived from remote sensing and land surface models
Authors: Duvvuri Bhavya , Gehring Jacyln , Beighley Edward
Published: September 2024

This study assesses river discharges derived using remote sensing and hydrologic modeling approaches throughout the CONUS. The remote sensing methods rely on total water storage anomalies (TWSA) from the GRACE satellite mission and water surface elevations from altimetry satellites (JASON-2/3, Sentinel-3). Surface and subsurface runoff from two Land Surface Models (NOAH, CLSM) are routed using the Hillslope River Routing model to determine discharge. The LSMs are part of NASA’s Global Land Data Assimilation System (GLDAS). Differences in key physical processes represented in each model, model forcings, and use of data assimilation provide an intriguing basis for comparison. Evaluation is performed using the Kling Gupta Efficiency and USGS stream gauges. Results highlight the effectiveness of both satellite-derived discharge methods, with altimetry generally performing well over a range of discharges and TWSA capturing mean flows. LSM-derived discharge performance varies based on hydroclimatic conditions and drainage areas, with NOAH generally outperforming CLSM. CLSM-derived discharges may be impacted by the use of data assimilation (GLDAS v2.2). Low correlation and high variability contribute to lower KGE values. GLDAS models tend to perform poorly in snow dominated, semi-arid and water-regulated systems where both the timing and magnitude of the simulated results are early and overestimated.
First step on the way to identify dermatophytes using odour fingerprints
Authors: Machová Lenka , Gaida Meriem , Semerád Jaroslav , Kolařík Miroslav , Švarcová Michaela , Jašica Andrej , Grasserová Alena , Awokunle-Hollá Sandra , Hubka Vít , Stefanuto Pierre-Hugues , Cajthaml Tomáš , Focant Jean-François , Čmoková Adéla
Published: September 2024

The clinical diagnosis of dermatophytosis and identification of dermatophytes face challenges due to reliance on culture-based methods. Rapid, cost-effective detection techniques for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) have been developed for other microorganisms, but their application to dermatophytes is limited. This study explores using VOCs as diagnostic markers for dermatophytes. We compared VOC profiles across different dermatophyte taxa using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and advanced analytical methods: gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and comprehensive two-dimensional gas chromatography with time-of-flight mass spectrometry (GC×GC-TOF MS). We analyzed 47 dermatophyte strains from 15 taxa grown on sheep wool, including clinically significant species. Additionally, we examined phylogenetic relationships among the strains to correlate genetic relatedness with metabolite production. Our results showed that GC×GC-TOF MS offered superior resolution but similar differentiation of VOC profiles compared to GC-MS. VOC spectra allowed reliable distinction of taxonomic units at the species level and below, although their relationships did not align with genetic phylogeny. We identified pan-dermatophyte and species- or strain-specific VOC profiles, indicating their potential for rapid, non-invasive detection of dermatophyte infections, including antifungal-resistant and epidemic strains. These patterns could enable future taxa-specific identification. Our study highlights the potential of VOCs as tools for dermatophyte taxonomy and diagnosis.
Exploring the use of observational tools for advancing patient safety learning among preregistration healthcare students: A scoping review using the 3P model of teaching and learning
Authors: Oli Radhika Upreti , Griffiths Leyshon , Norman Robert I , Anderson Elizabeth S
Published: September 2024

Background
Patient safety is a global health priority and a fundamental part of healthcare curricula worldwide. While teaching medical students on theoretical components is straightforward, students with little understanding of the pressures of front-line care, fail to prioritise patient safety. Using an observational tool for patient safety learning in real-clinical environments appears to help students engage with the significance of safe practice. This review seeks to identify learning approaches that use observational safety tools in practice.
Methods
This scoping review follows the JBI Evidence Synthesis Template. We searched Medline, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library for relevant papers published from 2009 to June 2024. Papers were appraised for quality indicators, and pedagogical theory and were synthesised using Bigg’s 3P theoretical model – presage (teaching setup), process (teaching), and product (evaluation and assessment).
Results
Of an initial 10,203 articles, only eight met the search criteria. The selected studies were conducted in North America (five) or Europe (three). The studies involved medical and nursing students in mid-to-late training and were for uni or interprofessional learning. Most studies involved a few representative students (range 11–368). They were conducted in acute clinical settings, including wards and theatres. All studies claimed the use of a safety tool advanced students’ learning and many involved monitoring real-time clinical practice. Students gained new knowledge, identified errors, valued learning in a student team and felt better prepared to speak up for errors. The studies failed to fully describe presage factors for set-up challenges and issues. They lacked rigour and adequate theoretical explanations about how learning took place (process). As the work was mainly descriptive and atheoretical, assessment outputs were lacking but evaluations were described.
Conclusions
Observational patient safety learning tools used in practice benefit students' understanding of patient safety, advancing their preparation for practice and remain under-studied and under-developed. The studies were often in their pilot development stages and hence involved few students. Further research on the use of patient safety education tools, used in practice, is urgently required to help educators with teaching design, delivery and assessment.
Trial Registration
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Adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium accelerates wound healing in a rat model of full-thickness skin defects
Authors: Huang Long , He Huimin , Lin Zhongbao , Liu Haiyun , Lin Xiankun , Liao Naishun , Wu Xiaodan
Published: September 2024

Background: Considering that the therapeutic function of adipose tissue-derived mesenchymal stem cells (ADSCs) on skin wounds is closely related to their paracrine effect, this study was designed to investigate the therapeutic effect of ADSC conditioned medium (ACM) on type 2 diabetic (T2D) skin wound healing.
Methods: The effect of ACM on HUVEC viability and angiogenesis was firstly evaluated by CCK 8 assay and q-PCR analysis, respectively. Next, a T2D rat model was induced by the combination of high fat diet and streptozotocin. Following by the establishment of full-thickness skin defects in T2D rats, ACM or serum free cultured medium was daily injected around the wound edge sfor 7 days. Afterwards, the skin wound healing rate was analyzed, and the skin tissues were assessed by histopathological examination. The mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and COX-2, as well as IL-12 and IFN-γ were evaluated by q-PCR analysis. Additionally, the transcriptome sequencing and immunohistochemistry were used to reveal the potential mechanism of ACM for T2D skin wound healing.
Results: Our data showed that ACM promoted cell proliferation and angiogenesis, and up-regulated the mRNA expression of EGF, bFGF, VEGF, and KDR in HUVECs. The in vivo data indicated that ACM could accelerate T2D skin wound healing rate by inhibiting the mRNA levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-6, and COX-2, as well as IL-12 and IFN-γ in vivo. Particularly, we also found that ACM could down-regulate TNF and chemokine signaling.
Conclusions: ACM could effectively promote vascular cell angiogenesis, accelerate skin wound regeneration by suppressing excessive inflammation in T2D rats, which is closely related to down-regulation of TNF and chemokine signaling pathways.
Improved lymph node detection in minimally invasive radical surgery for colorectal cancer using nanocarbon tracer
Authors: Xie Bingkai , Lin Guihe , Wang Zhijian , Xu Dongbo , Chen Jianxun , Lin Shuangming
Published: September 2024

To investigate the influencing factors of lymph node detection after minimally invasive radical surgery in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC) and the application value of carbon nanoparticle tracing. A total of 120 patients with CRC who underwent minimally invasive radical surgery were included. They were divided into groups according to whether they were grouped by carbon nano-tracers, and the baseline data were matched by propensity score method. Univariate and multivariate methods were used to evaluate lymph nodes and positive lymph nodes after minimally invasive radical surgery. The number of detected independent factors. After propensity score matching, there were 37 patients in the tracer group and the non-tracer group; there was no significant difference in baseline data between the two groups; the number of positive lymph nodes detected in the tracer group was significantly higher than that in the non-tracer group. The results of univariate analysis showed that gender, lesion location, maximum tumor diameter, and whether to perform nanocarbon tracing were all related to the number of lymph nodes detected after minimally invasive radical surgery. Nanocarbon tracing was an independent influencing factor for the number of lymph nodes detected after minimally invasive radical surgery. Pathological type, T stage, histopathological grade, nerve invasion, and whether or not with cancer nodules were all related to the number of positive lymph nodes detected after minimally invasive radical surgery; multivariate analysis showed that T stage, pathological Histological grade, vascular invasion, and cancer nodules were all independent influencing factors for the number of positive lymph nodes detected after minimally invasive radical surgery. The number of lymph nodes detected in patients with CRC after minimally invasive radical surgery is closely related to the location of the lesion and whether carbon nanoparticle tracing is performed; those with T2-4 stage, histological grade 3–4, combined with vascular invasion and cancer nodules are more likely to Positive lymph nodes were detected.
Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection among asymptomatic and symptomatic malaria-infected individuals in Uganda
Authors: Mwesigwa Alex , Ocan Moses , Cummings Bryan , Musinguzi Benson , Kiyaga Shahiid , Kiwuwa Steven M , Okoboi Okoboi , Castelnuovo Barbara , Bikaitwoha Everd Maniple , Kalyango Joan N. , Karamagi Charles , Nankabirwa Joaniter I. , Nsobya Samuel L , Kibwika Pauline Byakika
Published: September 2024

Background: Plasmodium falciparum remains a significant public health challenge globally, especially in sub-Saharan Africa, where it accounts for 99% of the disease burden. Infection outcomes vary widely from asymptomatic to severe, influenced by factors such as parasite genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection (MOI). This study utilized seven neutral microsatellite markers to investigate Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity and MOI in both asymptomatic and symptomatic individuals in Uganda.
Methods: This cross-sectional study analyzed 225 isolates from asymptomatic and symptomatic malaria patients (ages 6 months to ≥18 years). Genetic diversity and multiplicity of infection (MOI) of Plasmodium falciparum were assessed using seven microsatellite markers. STATA ver 17 and genetic analysis software were used for data analysis.
Results: Plasmodium falciparum exhibited high genetic diversity in both asymptomatic and symptomatic infections. The mean expected heterozygosity (He) ranged from 0.798 (95% CI: 0.75-0.84) in symptomatic uncomplicated cases to 0.809 (95% CI: 0.77-0.85) in asymptomatic cases. MOI did not significantly differ (p = 0.3342) between asymptomatic and symptomatic infections, with mean MOI ranging from 1.92 (95% CI: 1.61–2.23) in symptomatic complicated cases to 2.10 (95% CI: 1.83–2.37) in asymptomatic cases. Polyclonal infections were prevalent, varying from 58.4% (95% CI: 44.60-72.39) to 63% (95% CI: 51.22-74.78) across malaria infection categories.
Conclusion:There is a high level of Plasmodium falciparum genetic diversity and MOI in Uganda. Asymptomatic carriers host harbor diverse parasites, posing challenges for malaria control and necessitating targeted interventions for effective strategies.
Percent amplitude of fluctuations demonstrates altered brain activity in patients with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
Authors: Rodriguez-Manrique Daniela , Bremer Benno , Gürsel Deniz A. , Zimmer Claus , Koch Kathrin
Published: September 2024

Resting state fMRI (rs-fMRI) Studies have shown that patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) exhibit alterations in cortical excitability and neuronal synchronisation. Amplitude of low frequency fluctuations (ALFF) is a measure used assess the intensity of low frequency oscillations (LFOs) between 0.01-0.1Hz, which are believed to reflect neural activity. Amplitudes of these LFOs are of particular interest as they have shown to range depending on brain area and task. However, ALFF requires standardization and current methods show several shortcomings. To this end, percentage amplitude of fluctuations (PerAF) represents a new approach that has been shown to be valid and more reliable. To attain an improved understanding of OCD pathophysiology, this study investigated alterations of PerAF in a sample of OCD patients. Rs-fMRI data and Yale-Brown Compulsive Obsessive Scale (Y-BOCS) scores of 47 OCD patients and 36 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were obtained. Using RESTplus, the data were preprocessed and PerAF at each voxel was calculated. Groups were compared using t-tests for independent samples, and results were correlated with Y-BOCS scores. Compared to controls, OCD patients showed significantly lower PerAF in the bilateral cingulate gyrus and the right temporal gyrus. Additionally, OCD patients also displayed significantly decreased LFOs signal intensity in the bilateral thalamus and the insula. Notably, these differences showed a trend in correlating with patient-reported compulsion severity and duration of illness. These results indicate that (m)PerAF identifies differences in spontaneous brain activity between OCD patients and healthy controls. Our study shows alterations in LFOs that seem to be neuropathologically relevant for the disorder of OCD but further studies are certainly needed to assess the reliability of this relatively new analysis approach.
Enhancing Antitumor Activity of Herceptin in HER2-Positive Breast Cancer Cells: A Novel DNMT-1 Inhibitor Approach
Authors: Ren Li-li , Song Yan-ru , Song Zhen-chuan , Yang Hua , Zhang Qian , Ji Meng-meng , Xiao Na , Wen Ming , Wang Ji-hai
Published: September 2024

HER2 antagonists remain the cornerstone of therapy for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer. This study introduces a novel small-molecule inhibitor of DNA methyltransferase 1 (DNMT-1), referred to as DI-1, designed to synergize with HER2 antagonists in treating HER2-positive breast cancer cells. Clinical data reveal a negative correlation between DNMT-1 expression and PTEN levels, and a positive correlation with the methylation rates of PTEN's promoter. In experiments with SKBR3 and BT474 cells, DI-1 effectively reduced the methylation of PTEN's promoter region, thereby upregulating PTEN expression. This upregulation, in turn, enhanced the cells' sensitivity to HER2 antagonists, indicating that DI-1’s mechanism involves inhibiting DNMT-1’s recruitment to PTEN's promoter region. Consequently, by increasing PTEN expression, DI-1 amplifies the sensitivity of HER2-positive breast cancer cells to treatment, suggesting its potential as a promising therapeutic strategy in this context.
"The system"- An AI-Based Knowledge Recommender to Support Precision Education, Improve Reporting Productivity and Reduce Cognitive Load
Authors: Lopez-Rippe Julian , Reddy Manasa , Velez-Florez Maria Camila , Amiruddin Raisa , Gokli Ami , Francavilla Michael , Reid Janet R.
Published: September 2024

Background
Using artificial intelligence (AI) to augment knowledge is key to establishing precision education in modern radiology training. Our department has developed a novel AI-derived knowledge recommender, “The system” (RH), that augments the training of radiology residents and fellows, leading to the first precision education program in radiology.
Purpose
To assess the impact on trainees of an AI-based knowledge recommender compared to traditional knowledge sourcing for radiology reporting through reporting time, quality, cognitive load, and learning experiences.
Materials and Methods
A mixed methods prospective study allocated trainees to intervention and control groups, working with and without access to RH, respectively. Validated questionnaires and observed and graded simulated PACS-based reporting at the start and end of a month’s rotation assessed technology acceptance, image interpretation quality, turnaround time, cognitive load, and attitudes toward modified learning strategies.
Results
The RH group showed a statistically significant reduction in mean case reading time by 161.5 seconds for every case (~ 2 ½ minutes; p = 0.022) and mean case-sourcing time by 113 seconds for difficult cases (~ 2 minutes; p = 0.026). The intervention group showed a 14% increase in image interpretation accuracy (p < 0.001) as well as reduced overall workload (p = 0.029), mental demand (p = 0.030), and effort (p = 0.039). Additionally, 45–65% positively rated productivity and effectiveness with over 80% finding it flexible and easy to use, with strong optimism towards technology (3.9–4.3/5) and moderate to high intrinsic motivation (5.1-6.0/7). Eighty-four percent of participants requested access to RH for their next rotation.
Conclusion
This study supports the growing philosophy that AI will boost rather than replace human intelligence in medical training with enhanced quality and productivity. Our knowledge recommender can effectively augment the knowledge and performance of radiology trainees, and it is highly likely that the learner will use RH to promote self-directed learning. Further testing of a larger external cohort will support more widespread implementation of RH for precision education.