bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental and Numerical Analysis of the Impact of Corrosion on Pipeline Failure Pressure
Authors: Zhao Hongyang , Liang Xu , Yang Zhiguo , He Pei , Zhao Bowen
Published: September 2024

This paper employs the Finite Element Method (FEM) to simulate and analyze the effects of corrosion defect parameters on the stress and failure pressure of pipelines. It investigates how the boundary conditions of the pipeline model influence stress and examines the sensitivity of failure pressure to corrosion defect parameters. A nonlinear regression equation has been developed from a dataset obtained through simulation experiments to predict the failure pressure of corroded pipelines. To validate the effects of corrosion defect parameters on failure pressure, a hydrostatic test platform for an API 5L X65 pipeline with corrosion defects was established to measure stress levels and failure pressures across varying corrosion defects. The study reveals that failure pressure is negatively correlated with corrosion length and depth, while positively correlated with corrosion width. Among these parameters, corrosion depth exerts a more significant influence on the pipeline's failure pressure than corrosion length and width. Within the range of corrosion defect parameters examined, the maximum deviation of the prediction equation's results from the simulation results is 8.71%, with an average deviation of 5.81%. The standard deviation of the fitted residuals is 0.01837. Additionally, the maximum deviation between the predicted results and experimental measurements is 8.39%, with an average deviation of 7.77%. The strong agreement between the predicted results from the equation and the actual measured data underscores the effectiveness of the nonlinear regression equation.
Effects of Cognitive Dual-Tasking on Biomechanics and Neuromuscular Control during the Transition to Walking from Standing or Sitting Postures in Young Adults
Authors: Stout Angeloh , Mabbun Kaye , Waldon Ke'Vaughn , Alvarez Marvin , Nguyen Stacy , Barcellano Miguel , Cuenca Sandra , Tang Chuan-Fa , Naik Aanand , Kang Gu Eon
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of cognitive dual-tasking on gait initiation and sit-to-walk. Twenty-eight healthy young adults performed gait initiation and sit-to-walk under two conditions: while engaging in serial subtraction (dual-task) and without any additional task (single-task). Motion data were collected using a 10-camera optoelectronic motion capture system, synchronized with force plates and surface electromyography. We analyzed spatiotemporal parameters, center of mass displacement, center of pressure trajectory, and lower limb muscle activation patterns. We found that dual-task conditions significantly affected both gait initiation and sit-to-walk patterns, increasing the duration of transitions and mediolateral center of mass displacements, while reducing vertical center of mass displacements and forward propulsion. We also observed a more constrained and less efficient center of pressure path, with reduced posterior displacement during the weight shift phase. Muscle activation, particularly in the tibialis anterior and biceps femoris, decreased during dual-task conditions, indicating altered neuromuscular strategies. These findings suggest a shift in postural control demands and motor performance during dual-task transitions.
Ellagic Acid Mitigates Cadmium Exposure-Induced Apoptosis in HT22 Cells via Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Mitochondrial Dysfunction, and Activating Nrf2/Ho-1 Pathway
Authors: Liu Yue , Chen Chunhong , Hao Zhihui , Shen Jianzhong , Tang Shusheng , Dai Chongshan
Published: September 2024

Exposure to cadmium sulfate (CdSO4) can lead to neurotoxicity. Nevertheless, the precise molec-ular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon remain unclear, and effective treatment strategies are scarce. This study explored the protective effects of ellagic acid (EA), a natural polyphenolic compound, against CdSO4 exposure-induced neurotoxicity in HT22 cells. Additionally, the inves-tigation sought to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying this phenomenon. Our findings demonstrated that exposure of HT22 cells to CdSO4 resulted in apoptosis, which was effectively reversed by EA supplementation. EA supplementation also decreased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and mitochondrial ROS productions, reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and restored the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Additionally, EA supplementation at 5–20 μM significantly counteracted Cd-induced mitochondrial membrane potential and ATP losses and reduced the ratio of Bax/Bcl-2 and cleaved-caspase-3 protein expression. Furthermore, EA supplementation upregulated Nrf2 and HO-1 protein expression while downregulating the phosphorylation of JNK and p38 proteins. Pharmacological inhibition of JNK partially inhibited CdSO4-induced Nrf2/HO-1 activation and exacerbated its cytotoxicity. In conclusion, our results indicate that EA supplementation provides protection against CdSO4-induced cell apoptosis in HT22 cells by inhibiting oxidative stress and activating the Nrf2 pathway. Activation of the JNK pathway plays a protective role in CdSO4-induced cell apoptosis in HT22 cells.
Grundlagen of Legal Responsibility and Guaranteeing the Efficacy of Measures in Compliance with European Human Rights Standards
Authors: Zahrebelna Nataliia , Dubovoi Andrii , Vashchuk Oleksandr , Sadovyi Serhii , Pyshna Alla
Published: September 2024

The study aims to analyze effective human rights protection by clarifying the concept of legal liability from the point of view of the EU legislation and case law on human rights. Ensuring justice, freedom, and equality before the law is important. Ukraine is committed to EU integration; therefore, adapting Ukrainian legislation to European standards is a key step in this process. The study focuses on determining the need for and ways of adapting the Ukrainian legal framework to European standards. As a result of the study, The European Union (EU) plays a crucial role in Ukraine's foreign and integration policy, emphasizing the need to harmonize legislation with European standards. Legal liability is crucial in modern legal doctrine, ensuring the rule of law, guaranteeing rights, and protecting interests. Ukraine should learn best practices from the EU, such as Germany's "judicial autonomy" principle, to strengthen its independence. The EU also promotes transparency in appointments and careers, fighting corruption through anti-corruption bodies and financial control. Ukraine should also study and implement effective administrative liability systems, such as those used by France and Spain, to improve internal control and respond effectively to violations.
Analysis of subjective factors affecting physicians’ adoption of the functionality of medical information systems.
Authors:   Tyumen State Medical University, Russian Federation Ministry of Health, Duboshinskii R.I. , Kolosov V.S. ,   Tyumen State Medical University, Russian Federation Ministry of Health, Nemkov A.G. ,   Tyumen State Medical University, Russian Federation Ministry of Health, Strelnikov S.S. ,   Tyumen State Medical University, Russian Federation Ministry of Health, Botnar F.A. ,   Central Research Institute of Health Care Organization and Informatization of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation
Published: September 2024

Relevance: the intensity of information technology development, on the one hand, pursues the goals of reducing the burden on healthcare personnel, and on the other hand, creates difficulties in the «user-program» interaction, which are important to eliminate or prevent in a timely manner to improve the usability of the informational system. Objective of the study: to survey the opinion of medical workers about the development of new functionalities of medical informational systems. Methods of the study: content analysis, questionnaire survey, statistical analysis. Results of the study: the most significant, according to the respondents, were the following factors, in which the majority of respondents put the highest mark of 10 points: slow or incorrect functioning of the informational system (n = 562), lack of time at work (n = 527), the inability of familiarization with the functionality of the program at home (n = 482). Conclusion: The obtained results, first of all, allow us to pay attention to the fact that the most significant factors that cause negative attitude of the staff are: the slowness of the system, lack of time to familiarize with the system and impossibility to practice interaction with the system at home.
Trends in Nonfatal Overdose Rates Due to Alcohol and Prescription and Illegal Substances in Colombia, 2010‒2021
Authors: Santaella-Tenorio Julian , Zapata-López Jhoan S. , Fidalgo Thiago M. , Tardelli Vítor S. , Segura Luis E. , Cerda Magdalena , Martins Silvia S.
Published: September 2024

Objectives. To examine drug overdoses in Colombia by type of substance, sex, age, and intent using data from a health surveillance system from 2010 to 2021.

Methods. We characterized data by year, type of substance, and sociodemographic variables. We calculated age-adjusted overdose rates by substance type, sex, age groups, and intent. We used Poisson regression models to examine trend differences across sex and age groups.

Results. Age-adjusted rates of drug overdoses increased from 8.51 to 40.52 per 100 000 during 2010 to 2021. Men, compared with women, had higher overdose rates for every substance, except for opioids and psychotropics. Drug overdose rates involving cannabis and stimulants increased steadily until 2017 but decreased afterward. Overdose rates involving psychotropic medication increased greatly during 2018 to 2021, mainly because of intentional overdoses in young women.

Conclusions. Overdoses involving illegal drugs decreased in recent years in Colombia; however, the continuous increase in intentional psychotropic overdose rates highlights the need for prevention efforts to curb this trend. Health surveillance systems are an important tool that can guide overdose prevention efforts in countries with limited data resources. ( Am J Public Health. 2024;114(11):1252–1260. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2024.307786 )
Gestión del conocimiento y resiliencia turística en destinos patrimoniales: el caso de Oxapampa (Perú)
Authors: FRECH HURTADO HELGA CECILIA
Published: September 2024

En el presente estudio se realiza un análisis sobre la gestión del conocimiento como insumo para la resiliencia turística en la provincia de Oxapampa (Perú). Este lugar ubicado en la selva central del país ha sido el escenario de diversidad de investigaciones debido a su riqueza natural y cultural. El crecimiento turístico mantuvo un crecimiento paulatino constante hasta el año 2009 en que empezaron a realizarse diversos eventos que generaron un importante crecimiento turístico en la región, generando diversos impactos en el desarrollo local. Para este estudio se consideró la selección de siete expertos que respondieron un bloque de preguntas, además de la realización de una revisión y análisis de información secundaria, que finalmente fue comparada con la opinión de los expertos para un mayor sustento del estudio, en el cual se comprueba finalmente la importancia de la gestión del conocimiento para la resiliencia y sostenibilidad del destino turístico.
Palabras claves: Gestión del conocimiento, sostenibilidad turística, resiliencia turística, Oxapampa, Perú.
Factores del entorno empresarial que condicionan la actividad de las micropymes femeninas de turismo rural en Costa Rica
Authors: GUTIÉRREZ CRUZ MERLYN , SUCH DEVESA MARÍA JESÚS , GABALDÓN QUIÑONES PATRICIA
Published: September 2024

Este estudio analiza los factores del entorno empresarial que influyen en la actividad de las micropymes turísticas rurales dirigidas por mujeres en Costa Rica. Basándonos en la teoría institucional, se seleccionaron elementos institucionales formales (capital humano, barreras burocráticas, financiación, apoyo gubernamental) e informales (códigos de conducta, normas sociales, papel familiar) que influyen en la actividad empresarial femenina. Se realizó un análisis comparativo cualitativo difuso (fsQCA) a una muestra de 28 mujeres empresarias turísticas rurales costarricenses para conocer las interacciones entre dichos factores que afectan a la generación de ganancias. Los resultados de la investigación revelan cinco configuraciones diferentes que conducen a bajas o nulas ganancias en la actividad empresarial femenina. Los factores formales (barreras burocráticas y bajos niveles de capital humano), combinados con la presencia o la ausencia de otros factores institucionales tanto formales como informales representan una condición crítica vinculada con la baja o nula generación de ganancias. Las implicaciones teóricas de esta investigación contribuyen al conocimiento de los elementos institucionales formales e informales que afectan el crecimiento de las empresas dirigidas por mujeres en el sector turístico rural costarricense, y en las implicaciones prácticas, contribuye al fortalecimiento de la actividad empresarial femenina.
Palabras claves: teoría institucional, mujeres emprendedoras, turismo rural, Costa Rica
Industrial heritage, a new tool for Olympic promotion? A comparative analysis
Authors: ROUX HELENA
Published: September 2024

Faced with the controversies surrounding the Olympic Games (OG), they are moving towards a greater integration of local challenges – economic, social and environmental. Associating the hosting of such event with the urban regeneration policies appears to be a way to include them in longer planning periods, as well as ensure they are remembered. Presented as engines of transformations, they contribute to promotion of requalified and re-invested spaces that correspond better with the image of a competitive global city. The development of tourism strategies stems from this land promotion and appears as one of the economic outlets of the post-industrial transition. On the other hand, the reuse of industrial buildings helps build a positive image and a lasting legacy for the OG, as catalysts for regeneration of brownfields in crisis – as can be seen in the official Olympic narrative. Through the analysis of three case studies, this article aims to identify how does tourism development fit into these strategies that link industrial and Olympic heritage.
Keywords: industrial heritage, regeneration, Olympic Games, tourism, heritage, territorial
Factores claves para la viabilidad de emprendimientos gastronómicos en la post crisis sanitaria (COVID-19) en Portoviejo (Ecuador)
Authors: GARCÍA REINOSO NELSON , BRAVO ERIKA SAMANTHA , CUJILEMA CAMPOS STEINER MELANIE
Published: September 2024

La pandemia ha originado un impacto muy fuerte a la economía mundial, aumentando la desigualdad de ingresos en todo tipo de negocios y en todos los sectores. El impacto económico asociado con el COVID-19 ha afectado negativamente a la actividad turística, el empleo, los ingresos y la pobreza en el contexto ecuatoriano. La presente investigación plantea como objetivo establecer los factores claves para la viabilidad de emprendimientos gastronómicos post crisis sanitaria (COVID-19) en Portoviejo, Manabí, Ecuador. Se propone un diseño metodológico de carácter cualitativo-cuantitativo, combinando un enfoque exploratorio y deductivo en tres fases: 1) se realizó un diagnóstico turístico para identificar problemáticas en los negocios gastronómicos; 2) se practicó un estudio de mercado para caracterizar a los emprendimientos gastronómicos (196 cuestionarios) y a la demanda turística (385 encuestas). Por último, 3) se determinaron los elementos del modelo de negocio CANVAS en emprendimientos gastronómicos. Los resultados muestran que la gran mayoría de los emprendedores han registrado una disminución significativa de sus ingresos (87%) y de sus actividades (79%). Se concluye que la competitividad y sostenibilidad de los emprendimientos gastronómicos dependerá de una fuerte orientación a favor de la diversificación e intensificación productiva y la cooperación entre actores.
Palabras clave: Emprendimiento; gastronomía; viabilidad de los negocios; crisis sanitaria (COVID-19); Portoviejo, Ecuador.
Stochastic Modeling of Two-Phase Transport in Fractured Porous Media Under Geological Uncertainty Using an Improved Probabilistic Collocation Method
Authors: Sharafi Mohammad Sadegh , Ahmadi Mohammad , Kazemi Alireza
Published: September 2024

Simulation of multiphase transport through fractured porous media is highly affected by the uncertainty in fracture distribution and matrix block size that arises from inherent heterogeneity. To quantify the effect of such uncertainties on displacement performance in porous media, the probabilistic collocation method (PCM) has been applied as a feasible and accurate approach. However, propagation of uncertainty during the simulation of unsteady-state transport through porous media could not be computed by this method or even by the direct-sampling Monte Carlo (MC) approach. Therefore, with this research, we implement a novel numerical modeling workflow that improves PCM on sparse grids and combines it with the Smolyak algorithm for selection of collocation points sets, Karhunen-Loeve (KL) decomposition, and polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) to compute the uncertainty propagation in oil-gas flow through fractured porous media in which gravity drainage force is enabled. The effect of uncertainty in the vertical dimension of matrix blocks, which are frequently an uncertain and history-matching parameter, on simulation results of randomly synthetic 3D fractured media is explored. The developed numerical model is innovatively coupled with solving governing deterministic partial differential equations (PDEs) to compute uncertainty propagation from the first timestep to the last timestep of the simulation. The uncertainty interval and aggregation of uncertainty in ultimate recovery are quantified, and statistical moments for simulation outputs are presented at each timestep. The results reveal that the model properly quantifies uncertainty and extremely reduces central processing unit (or CPU) time in comparison with MC simulation.
Efficacy of Virtual Reality in Managing Pain for Palliative Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis Protocol
Authors: Salim Nezar N/A , Taylor Janiece
Published: September 2024

Background: Virtual Reality (VR) has demonstrated effectiveness as an intervention for pain management. With technological advances and increased affordability, VR offers promising tools for managing pain among palliative patients. The primary aim of this systematic review and metaanalysis is to synthesize evidence from published Randomized Clinical Trials (RCTs) on the use of VR for pain management among palliative patients.
Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy of VR interventions in reducing pain among palliative care patients and to assess the methodological quality of the included studies.
Data Sources: Literature searches were conducted in databases including PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, utilizing medical subject headings (MeSH) and keywords such as "Palliative Patients," "Hospice Patients," "End of Life Cancer Patients," "Pain Management," "Virtual Reality," and "Randomized Clinical Trials." Study Eligibility Criteria: Studies included were RCTs focusing on VR interventions for pain management in palliative care settings.
Participants/Interventions: Palliative care patients receiving VR interventions for pain management.
Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods: The Joanna Briggs Institute’s “Revised Critical Appraisal Checklist for Randomized Controlled Trials” was used to appraise the methodological quality. Two independent reviewers conducted study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment, with discrepancies resolved through consultation with a third reviewer. Quantitative analyses were performed using SPSS, calculating standardized mean differences and odds ratios, and assessing heterogeneity with the I2 statistic.
Results: The review will summarize the effect sizes and confidence intervals of VR interventions on pain management in palliative care, with an evaluation of the consistency of the results across studies.
Limitations: Limitations of the study will include potential publication bias and the inherent methodological limitations in the included studies.
Conclusions and Implications of Key Findings: Findings are expected to provide robust evidence on the efficacy of VR for pain management in palliative care and highlight areas for future research.
Systematic Review Registration Number: PROSPERO [CRD42024512961].
Ethics and Dissemination: No ethical approval is required for this review. Results will be disseminated through conference presentations and publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Preliminary exploration of endoplasmic reticulum stress transmission in astrocytes and neurons, and its mediators
Authors: ling yating , Hayat Muhammad Abid , Lv Xiaorui , Niu Dongdong , Zeng Yu , Qiu Yun , Chen Bo , Hu Jiabo
Published: September 2024

Unfolded protein response (UPR) signaling in cells stimulates UPR signaling in adjacent cells, facilitating disease progression by upregulating UPR target genes. However, whether this dissemination occurs between nerve cells and its molecular basis remains unclear. The supernatant of endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in rat astrocytes was prepared and treated with rat adrenal medulla pheochromocytoma cells to simulate the propagation of ER stress between nerve cells. The results showed that ER stress may propagate between rat nerve cells, ultimately leading to cell death. It was also found that the mediators mediating ER stress transmission have non-vesicular, oxidative-linked molecules with molecular weights > 100 kD. In conclusion, ER stress propagation might play a significant role in neuronal death following ER stress in central nervous system (CNS) diseases, suggesting novel therapeutic targets for these conditions.
Mortality Predictors of Patients Receiving Care in a Geriatric Home Care Unit, During a Six Months Follow-up After the Intervention
Authors: Prieto Blanca Garmendia , Usaola Francisco Sánchez del Corral , Cortés Juan José Baztán , Pavón Francisco Javier Gómez
Published: September 2024

Purpose: To describe the characteristics of patients attended by a Home Geriatric Care Unit (HGCU) and the predictors of mortality during the intervention and after 6 months of follow-up.
Methods: This prospective observational study included patients attended by the HGCU of the Hospital Universitario Central de la Cruz Roja (from June 1 to December 31, 2021) with a 6-month follow-up. Sociodemographic, clinical, functional, and cognitive variables were recorded, together with the waiting times until the first visit, length of stay, number of new diagnoses, additional tests, origin, and the number of medical and nursing visits. Mortality and its predictors were assessed. Descriptive and multivariate analyses were performed, along with Kaplan-Meier curves (95%CI; p<0.05).
Results: 241 patients were included (89.4±6.1 years; 72.6% women). There was high co-morbidity (38.9% Charlson Index≥3), frailty (Clinical Frailty Scale-CFS≥5: 97.9%), polypharmacy (average number of medications was 12.1±4.6), Barthel Index (BI) mean 39.9±27.3, with 60.1% having dementia and 70.1% Nutritional risk (CONtrolling NUTritional Status-CONUT>1). Anemia was found in 43% and renal function impairment (glomerular filtration rate <60 ml/min/m2) in 90.4%. The average length of participation in the program was 17.4±17.9 days, with 2.9±2.7 medical visits and 2.7±2.7 nursing visits. New diagnoses were established in 83.8% of patients. Mortality was 5.4% (13 patients) during the intervention and 22.8% at 6 month. Predictive variables of mortality in multivariate analysis included worse functional and cognitive status at discharge, poorer nutritional status and renal function, higher number of medical and nursing visits, and new diagnoses establishment.
Conclusion: The HGCU program cares for older patients with high co-morbidity and care needs, complementing the role of Primary Care. Factors such as functional, cognitive and nutritional status, renal function, and the number of medical and nursing visits are predictors of mortality at 6 months.
Combined Effects and Timing of Robotic Training and Botulinum Toxin on Upper Limb Spasticity and Motor Function among individuals with post-stroke upper limb spasticity
Authors: Shin Joon-Ho , Park Gyulee , Kim Hayeon , Cho Duk Youn , Kwon Suncheol
Published: September 2024

Objective:This study aimed to evaluate the combined effects of robotic training (RT) and botulinum toxin (BTX) injections on motor function and spasticity in individuals with post-stroke upper limb spasticity (ULS). We also investigated the optimal timing of RT and BTX administration.
Methods:Forty-two participants with chronic stroke-induced ULS were initially enrolled and randomized into four groups: Group A (RT+BTX at 4 weeks [W4]), Group B (RT+BTX at baseline [W0]), Group C (BTX at W0, RT at W4), and Group D (RT at W0, BTX at W4). Clinical assessments and robotic kinematic evaluations were conducted at W0, W4, and 8 weeks (W8). The primary outcome was the Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) scores, and secondary outcomes included the modified Ashworth scale (MAS) of elbow and kinematic parameters such as spectral arc length mean speed, hand path ratio, and movement deviation in various movements.
Results:Of the 42 participants, 40 completed the study. From W0 to W4, Group B showed the best results in terms of spasticity (MAS-elbow flexor and extensor) and kinematic variables, indicating that the combined use of BTX and RT is superior to sole interventions regarding motor function and spasticity. From W0 to W8, Group C demonstrated the most significant improvements in FMA scores and kinematic variables, indicating that the combined use of BTX and RT, especially when RT was initiated one month after BTX injection, resulted in superior functional outcomes compared to other timings of interventions.
Conclusions: The combination of RT and BTX is more effective in enhancing motor function and reducing spasticity in individuals with ULS than either intervention alone or no intervention. Moreover, the timing of RT relative to BTX injection plays a crucial role in maximizing therapeutic benefits in stroke patients with ULS, considering the mode of action of each intervention.
Trial registration: clinicaltrials.gov NCT02228863. Registered 23 Auguste 2014; retrospectively registered.
Identifying Diagnostic Biomarkers for Glaucoma Based on Transcriptome Combined with Mendelian Randomization
Authors: Lin Xiuli , Ma Chuanyong , Zhang Xiaoxue , Qiu Yuzhe , Xu Nuo
Published: September 2024

Glaucoma poses a major health challenge, yet reliable biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment are scarce. This study employed Mendelian randomization and bioinformatics to uncover potential biomarkers. The GSE9944 dataset was used for training and validation in glaucoma research. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified through differential expression analysis. The protein-protein interaction network (PPI) and functional enrichment were conducted. MR analysis selected DEGs for support vector machine-recursive feature elimination (SVM-RFE), and genes with high differential expression and an area under the curve (AUC) > 0.7 were deemed biomarkers. Biomarker-based analysis, network design, and drug prediction followe. Using 836 DEGs, the PPI network showed diverse interactions, including ATG14-UVRAG. DEGs were enriched in PI3K-Akt and MAPK pathways. MR analysis linked 113 DEGs to glaucoma, with 57 genes matching expression trends. SVM-RFE identified six signature genes, with ATP6V0D1 and FAM89B as biomarkers (AUC > 0.7). Finally, the molecular regulatory networks revealed that biomarkers might involve several regulatory pathways, including ATP6V0D1-hsa-let-7b-5p-HCG18 and ATP6V0D1 or FAM89B-CREB1. The ATP6V0D1 and FAM89B recognized as glaucoma biomarkers, aiding diagnosis, treatment and deepening glaucoma mechanisms understanding
Dysbiosis in Maize Leaf Endosphere Microbiome is Associated with Domestication
Authors: Topcu Ilksen , Bernal Julio S , Antony-Babu Sanjay
Published: September 2024

Background
The effect of domestication and breeding on maize leaf endosphere microbiota is scarcely understood, a knowledge gap is vital to be filled given their roles in plant health. We examined the leaf endosphere microbial communities associated with three plant-groups; teosinte, landraces and elite inbred maize, with the latter including both Mexican and US lines. Particularly, we used 16S-V4 region amplicon sequencing of the leaf endosphere microbiomes to infer how the microbial community of elite inbred maize may have been shaped by the crop’s evolution, and whether they were affected by: (i) the transition from a perennial life history to an annual life history in the wild; (ii) transformation of annual life into landrace maize via domestication; (iii) the northward spread of landrace maize from Mexico to the US; and (iii) breeding of landrace maizes to produce elite inbreds. Additionally, we investigated biomarker taxa, and likely functional profiles using LEfSe analysis, network analysis, and FAPROTAX.
Results
The leaf endosphere microbial community differed among the plant-groups and genotypes, and was markedly affected by domestication, as indicated by a decline in bacterial diversity and changes in microbial community structure between wild (teosinte) and domesticated (maize) Zea. While the microbial community structure was highly stringent and regulated in the teosintes, post-domestication maize landraces and elite inbreds showed high variability, suggesting microbial dysbiosis in the leaf endosphere associated with domestication, and consistent with predictions of the Anna Karenina principle. As such, this finding marks the first evidence of dysbiosis associated with plant domestication. Co-occurrence network analyses revealed the complexity of the network structure increased with domestication. Furthermore, FAPROTAX predictions suggested that the teosintes possessed higher cellulolytic, chitinolytic, and nitrate respiration functions, while the maize landraces and elite inbreds showed higher fermentation and nitrate reduction functions.
Conclusions
Our results showed the leaf endosphere microbial community structures are consistent with community alterations associated with dysbiosis. Altogether, our findings enhanced our understanding of the effects of anthropogenic processes such as crop domestication, spread, and breeding on the leaf endosphere of elite maize cultivars, and may guide the development of evolutionarily- and ecologically sustainable biofertilizers and biocontrol agents.
DEF6 regulates renal ischemia reperfusion injury through suppressing the WWP2 mediated ubiquitination of PARP1
Authors: Hu Haochong , Liu Yiting , Han Shangting , Guo Jiayu , Zhou Jiangqiao , Qiu Tao
Published: September 2024

Background
Renal ischemia-reperfusion injury (RIRI) stands as an unavoidable complication arising from kidney surgery, profoundly intertwined with its prognosis. The role of differentially expressed in FDCP 6 homolog (DEF6) in RIRI remains elusive, despite its confirmation as a potential therapeutic target for diverse diseases. Here, we investigated the mechanism by which DEF6 regulated RIRI.
Methods
RNA sequencing data and IP-MS were used to identify the expression and potential targets of DEF6 through bioinformatics analysis. To elucidate the impact of DEF6 on RIRI, both an in vivo model of RIRI in mice and an in vitro model of kidney cell hypoxia/reoxygenation were established. Biochemical and histological analyses were used to investigate the influence of DEF6 on kidney damage mediated by RIRI.
Results
We confirmed that DEF6 was upregulated during RIRI and had a close correlation with RIRI-related inflammation and apoptosis. Moreover, inhibition of DEF6 could mitigate RIRI-induced kidney damage, inflammation, and apoptosis. Through our comprehensive mechanistic investigation, we revealed that DEF6 interacts with poly ADP-ribose polymerase 1 (PARP1) and suppresses the ubiquitination of PARP1. Inhibition of DEF6 resulted in reduced cleaveage of PARP1, leading to a marked suppression of PARP1-mediated apoptosis activation. The aggravation effect on inflammation and apoptosis achieved through DEF6 was nullified by the inhibition of NF-κB and Bax/Bcl2 signaling activation through PARP1 deletion.
Conclusions
The findings from our study indicate that DEF6 suppressed the WWP2 mediated ubiquitination of PARP1 and modulates the activation of NF-κB and Bax/Bcl2 pathway, thus involved in RIRI-induced inflammation and apoptosis. These results suggest that DEF6 holds promise as a potential therapeutic target for mitigating RIRI.
Biomimetic Freestanding Microfractals for Flexible Electronics
Authors: Barua Amit , Gogoi Rituporn , Reddy Pulikanti Guruprasad , Jolaiy Saman , Bodaghi Mahdi , Laukkanen Timo , Speck Thomas , Sariola Veikko , Sharma Vipul
Published: September 2024

The microfractals of leaf skeletons can be effective substrates for flexible electronics due to their high surface-to-volume ratio, transparency, breathability and flexibility. The challenge lies in replicating these fractal surfaces at the microscale in a way that is scalable, freestanding, and integrable with various materials. In this study, we present a novel method for the biomimetic microfabrication of leaf-skeleton-based fractal surfaces. We utilized a modified electrospinning method, replacing the fiber collector with a metalized biotic collector to replicate the microstructures. The biomimetic microfractals demonstrated over 90% replication accuracy, > 80% transparency, good stretchability, and breathability, and were freestanding. The method is versatile, allowing for the use of a wide range of polymers in biomimetic microfabrication. For application in flexible electronics, biomimetic conductive fractal patterns (BCFP) were fabricated by immobilizing Ag Nanowires (AgNW) using a simple spray-based method. The BCFP exhibited high conductivity with sheet resistances < 20 Ω sq− 1 while maintaining good transparencies. The BCFP adheres conformally to human skin, acting as an electronic skin (e-skin). To demonstrate the application, the BCFP was used to fabricate a tactile pressure sensor. In addition to their excellent transparency at low sheet resistances, stretchability, moisture resistance, and tight conformal bonding with the target surface, the BCFP also allows the evaporation of perspiration, making them suitable for long-term use as epidermal sensors. The application of BCFP in advanced bionic skin was demonstrated through gesture monitoring experiments.
Effect of past extensive ulcers on fecal calprotectin in ulcerative colitis
Authors: Ishida Natsuki , Egami Takatoshi , Takebe Tomohiro , Takahashi Kenichi , Asai Yusuke , Tamura Satoshi , Matsuura Tomoharu , Yamade Mihoko , Iwaizumi Moriya , Hamaya Yasushi , Yamada Takanori , Osawa Satoshi , Sugimoto Ken
Published: September 2024

Background
Ulcerative colitis (UC) causes extensive ulceration attributable to intestinal inflammation. This study investigated the effect of past extensive ulcers (PEUs) on fecal calprotectin (FC).
Methods
This retrospective, single-center, observational study included patients with UC with a Mayo endoscopic subscore of 0. UC with scarring or pseudopolyposis was defined as PEU and FC and fecal immunochemical occult blood test (FIT) values ere compared. The marker levels of patients in the PEU and non-PEU groups were examined to assess clinical relapse within 12 months.
Results
Of the 61 included patients, 27 had UC with PEUs and 34 had UC without PEUs. Albumin, hemoglobin, and FIT values between groups were not significantly different; however, the C-reactive protein and FC values of the PEU group were significantly higher than those of the non-PEU group. The FC values of the clinical relapse and remission groups within 12 months differed significantly. The cutoff values for the prediction of relapse within 12 months for all patients (area under the curve [AUC], 0.709; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.512–0.907) and the non-PEU group (AUC, 0.893; 95% CI, 0.724–1.000) were both 118 mg/kg.
Conclusions
The FC values of patients with UC and PEUs increased; therefore, it may not be a sufficiently accurate biomarker.
Use of the Da Vinci SP ® Surgical System in Robot-assisted Nipple-sparing Mastectomy: A Single-Center, Retrospective Study
Authors: Lee Sae Byul , Kim Jisun , Chung Il Yong , Kim Hee Jeong , Lee Jong Won , Son Byung Ho , Ko Beom Seok
Published: September 2024

We investigated the safety and performance of the Da Vinci SP single-port robot (SP robot) in nipple-sparing mastectomy (NSM) with immediate reconstruction. Medical records of 60 women aged ≥ 19 years who had undergone SP robot-assisted unilateral or bilateral NSM with immediate reconstruction between October 2020 and August 2021 were retrospectively analyzed. Stage I (31, 47.1%) was the most common pathological tumor-node-metastasis stage, followed by stages II (22, 33.3%), 0 (7, 10.6%), and III (4, 6.0%). The median total duration of NSM performed by a breast surgeon and reconstruction performed by a plastic surgeon was 154.0 min (interquartile range [IQR], 130.5–206.0 min) and 133.0 min (IQR, 80.0–255.0 min), respectively. The median length of hospitalization was 5.5 d (IQR, 3.0–9.0 d). Conversion to robotic multiport or open surgery was not required in any case. The median duration to drain removal was 5.0 d (IQR, 4.0–6.0 d). Recurrence of cancer within 6 months was not observed in any patient. SP robot-assisted NSM with immediate reconstruction was performed successfully in all patients without conversion to open surgery or the incidence of significant perioperative complications, indicating its precision and ability to minimize the size of the surgical incision.
Expanding and Linking Protected Areas Network: A Case Study of GAP Analysis and Corridor Design for Brown Bears in Iran
Authors: Ara Sahar Roshan , Askaripour Nariman
Published: September 2024

The brown bear is Iran's largest carnivore with a wide distribution range. However, the brown bear is listed as nationally endangered. Brown bears' habitats in Iran are very fragmented, especially at the local scale. Thus, researching the potentially suitable habitat areas in a human-dominated landscape like Lorestan province in Iran is vital to ensure the conservation of this species. In this study, we used a presence-only based maximum entropy (MaxEnt) approach to model the brown bear's habitat suitability. Then, we utilized the Gap Analysis to identify the gap between highly suitable habitat areas and the existing protected areas network. Furthermore, the potential habitat corridors were designed between some protected areas, and between a protected area and a no-hunting area to maintain connectivity between them. Our results showed that the most important variables impacting the distribution of brown bears were the distance from roads, annual precipitation, elevation, and distance from agricultural lands respectively. The results also demonstrated that only 7.4% of Lorestan province is considered a highly suitable habitat, with 36.07% remaining unprotected. In conclusion, this study can be a valuable tool for expanding the current protected and no-hunting areas and establishing new ones in the province and other similar regions.
The parameterized modified SOR-like method for saddle point problems from Stokes equations *
Authors: Ma Changfeng , Yu Xiaojuan
Published: September 2024

Inspired by MSOR-like iteration method proposed by Guo et al. [25] and NMSSOR iteration method proposed by Najafi et al. [32], parameter acceleration technique and preconditioning matrix Q are used, we establish a parameterized modified SOR-like (PMSOR-like) method for non-singular and singular saddle point problems. Theoretical analysis show that the convergence and semi-convergence properties of the PMSOR-like method can be guaranteed under suitable conditions. For nonsingular cases, we give the local theoretical optimal parameters of PMSOR-like method and the corresponding convergence factor. In addition, numerical examples are given to verify the efficiency of the proposed method.
Vision-Sharing System for Android Avatars to Enable Remote Eye Contact
Authors: Shinkawa Kaoruko , Nakajima Mizuki , Nakata Yoshihiro
Published: September 2024

Maintaining eye contact is a fundamental aspect of non-verbal communication, yet current remote communication tools, such as video calls, struggle to replicate the natural eye contact experienced in face-to-face interactions. This study presents a cutting-edge vision-sharing system for android avatars that enables remote eye contact by synchronizing the eye movements of the operator and the avatar. Our innovative system features an eyeball integrated with a wide-angle lens camera, meticulously designed to mimic human eyes in both appearance and functionality. This technology is seamlessly integrated into android avatars, enabling operators to perceive the avatar's surroundings as if physically present. It provides a stable and immersive visual experience through a head-mounted display synchronized with the avatar’s gaze direction. Through rigorous experimental evaluations, we demonstrated the system's ability to faithfully replicate the operator's perspective through the avatar, making eye contact more intuitive and effortless compared with conventional methods. Subjective assessments further validated the system's capacity to reduce operational workload and enhance user experience. These compelling findings underscore the potential of our vision-sharing system to elevate the realism and efficacy of remote communication using android avatars.
A 25-year-old female with a variable presentation of MCTD-A case report
Authors: Kumari Rekha , Khan Maham , Maheshwari Leladher
Published: September 2024

Mixed Connective Tissue Disease (MCTD) is a rare connective tissue disease,in which many systems in the body are affected.It involves various mixed features of Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Systemic Sclerosis, Polymyositis, Dermatomyositis, Sjogren’s syndrome and Rheumatoid Arthritis.Positive Anti-U1RNP/SM is highly specific for MCTD. Our case report focuses on a 25-year-old female,who presented with joint pains, symmetric, involving multiple joints associated with pain and low grade fever with no morning stiffness and developed alopecia and a skin rash starting at the nose involving the whole face, neck, back and a distinctive photosensitive bilateral rash on both upper leg regions.This case urges the clinicians to be extra cautious in the diagnosis and management of MCTD,as this disease can lead to various drastic implications i.e., Pulmonary hypertension,restrictive heart disease, renal crisis etc.Moreover,the finding of this disease in this geographical region is unusual and is of special interest to the medical professionals.
Neural Reconnection After Exposure in High Frequency Electromagnetic Fields - In Vivo Study
Authors: Paraš Smiljana , Šnjegota Dragana , Ružić Zoran , Šibarević Maja , Grahovac Jovana , Paraš Milan , Gajanin Radoslav
Published: September 2024

Change in cytoarchitecture and reconnection of neurons in rats’ brain under direct two months high frequency electromagnetic field (HFEMF) exposure has been found, supported with data and discussed. HFEMF used in the experiment had the following characteristics: 2.0 GHz frequency, 0.015 A/m intensity, electric field strength of 5.64 V/m, and SAR value was 2.5 W/kg. Rats were exposed for 6 hours a day for 6 days a week, during period of 60 days with experimental HFEMF. Six months after the treatment, histological and unbiased stereological analyses show that there is a reconnection of neurons in rats´ brain, demonstrated by slight increase in their number and production of new dendrites. Effects of HFEMF on neuronal disconnection were detected via caspase, while the SNXS25 protein indicated their reconnection and regeneration. Immunohistochemical analysis of nervous tissue in this paper shows that HFEMF disrupt the work of proteins found on cell membranes and endocytic function of neurons and thus interrupts interneuron communication. The advantage of HFEMF over other methods of treating brain damage is in their controlled and very precise use, with specifically defined characteristics of HFEMF, without ionizing and mutagenic effect on neurons.
Participant experiences with a text message and contingency management intervention for alcohol use during pregnancy and lactation in Cape Town, South Africa
Authors: Erasmus-Claassen Lesley-Ann , Mpisane Noluthando , Williams Petal Petersen , Browne Felicia A. , Myers Bronwyn , Wechsberg Wendee M. , Parry Charles David Heber , Taylor Shantae N. , Washio Yukiko
Published: September 2024

Background
The Western Cape region of South Africa has one of the highest global rates of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions. This qualitative study explores pregnant and lactating participants’ perceptions and experiences of a text message and contingency management (CM) intervention.
Methods
The study involved post-intervention interviews with 10 pregnant participants and 10 post-partum lactating participants. Coding and a thematic analysis approach were applied to the collected data using NVivo 12.
Results
Four main themes emerged from the analysis: (1) program experiences; (2) intervention components; (3) health behavior change; and (4) recommendations for program improvements. The participants valued financial incentives and health-promoting text messages, noting reduced alcohol consumption.
Conclusion
The findings highlighted the potential benefits of the intervention in improving individuals’ health behaviors. However, logistical barriers and the need for expanded support services were identified, emphasizing the importance of refining intervention strategies in resource-limited settings.
Bridging the Gap for Alice: Charitable Organizations Acting Amid Rising Inflation and Further Solutions Using AI
Authors: Chepuri Nikhil , Porandla Rishika
Published: September 2024

Nationwide, nearly 37.9 million U.S. households fall into the Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed (ALICE) category. These households earn above the Federal Poverty Line but below the ALICE Household Survival Budget, making them ineligible for many public assistance programs. Nonprofit organizations like United Way and Feeding America have developed tailored assistance programs to support ALICE households. This study utilizes data from ALICE reports, U.S. Census data, and tools such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Data Retrieval Tools and the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta’s Policy Rules Database to analyze the challenges faced by ALICE households. Additionally, data from the Integrated Public Use Microdata Series - Current Population Survey (IPUMS CPS) is examined using Microsoft Excel’s Pivottable to quantify the impact of nonprofit programs through the Household Rasch Food Security Score (FSRASCH) metric. The analysis highlights a significant gap in the number of ALICE households receiving assistance, attributed to inadequate access to information about available programs. To address this, AskALICE, an AI chatbot, is proposed. Developed using Yellow.ai’s Orchestrator LLM, AskALICE provides an accessible, centralized solution to inform ALICE households about eligibility and available assistance programs. By leveraging various data tables, assistance program information, and machine learning capabilities, AskALICE aims to bridge the information gap and enhance economic stability for millions of ALICE households. This study underscores the importance of accessible information in improving support for the ALICE population and proposes a practical solution with significant implications for economic stability.