bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of learning style preferences among first year MBBS students using VARK questionnaire
Authors: Sangam Muralidhar Reddy , Kalita Bitopan , Srinivasan Krishnan 
Published: May 2024

Learning style refers to the preference of the students for receiving and processing the information. In the present CBME curriculum, as the learning is more student-centric, understanding the learning style preferences of the students allows higher educational efficiency. Learning styles can be assessed by different models. Among them, the VARK model is more concise, simple, appropriate, and reliable. VARK categorizes learning by sensory preferences – Visual, Auditory, Read/Write, and Kinesthetic.To identify the mode of learning and learning style preferences among first-year MBBS students using the VARK questionnaire and to determine the relationship between learning style preferences and gender.This cross-sectional study was carried out among first-year MBBS students at AIIMS, Guwahati for 6 months after obtaining permission from the Institutional Ethics Committee. Consenting students were administered with a Google form of VARK questionnaire version 7.8. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the student’s preference for various VARK components. The chi-square test was used to compare four VARK learning styles between male and female students.97 students (75 males and 22 females) studying first-year MBBS participated in the study. Most of the students were tetra-modal learners (38.14%) showing a preference for all four sensory modalities. 31 students (31.95%) showed an unimodal mode of learning. This is followed by trimodal (17.52%) and bimodal (12.37%) learners showing a preference for three and two sensory modalities respectively. The most preferred learning style was kinesthetic (mean score was 10±3.58) and the least was read/write (mean score was 4.79±3.48).Knowledge of the learning style may allow the students to improve their academic performance. It helps the instructors to modify and adopt appropriate teaching methods addressing different learning styles for achieving higher educational efficiency.
Application of Seismic Refraction Tomography in Determining the Soil Hardness Level in IKN Nusantara Area
Authors: Alamsyah Andi , Lepong Piter , Wahidah Wahidah , Rahmiati Rahmiati 
Published: May 2024

Numerous studies supporting infrastructure construction are currently underway in the New Capital Territory of Nusantara (IKN Nusantara). A geophysical method known as Seismic Refraction Tomography (SRT) has been employed within the IKN Nusantara to identify hard and soft layers based on the P-wave velocity (Vp). The data acquisition involved 24 channels of geophone spaced at intervals 3 and 4 meters. Measurements were conducted alongfour trajectories of 69 and 92 meters, reaching penetration depths of 12 – 20 meters. P-wave velocity values ranging between 200 – 3500 m/s were recorded. Additionally, the Unconfined Compressive Strength (UCS) value was determined using an empirical equation tailored for mudrock-shale lithology, establishing the correlation between Vp and UCS. In the shallow depths of 0 – 3 meters, UCS values indicated levels below 20 MPa, classifying the materials as having low to medium hardness. However, at depths greater than 3 meters, this layer transitioned to material with high hardness levels, as evidenced by UCS rate exceeding 20 MPa across all trajectories. This suggest that the IKN Nusantara is conducive to infrastructure development.
Geomechanical Simulation of 3D Directional Borehole Circumference in Deep Composite Salt Formation
Authors: Li Shiyuan , Li Chenglong , Chen Zhaowei , Zhai Wenbao , Lei Yajun , Cao Jiawei 
Published: May 2024

Abstract
Composite salt formation is a high-quality caprock for oil and gas resources. The accident encountered in composite salt formation drilling is a big problem to be solved in the drilling process. According to statistics, nearly 50% of drilling accidents occur in composite salt formations. The composite salt formation is mainly composed of salt, gypsum, and interbed mud, and the lithology is complex and changeable. Therefore, it is very important to study the deformation mechanism and leading influencing factors of composite salt formation in view of the problem of frequent accidents in the drilling process. In this article, the creep parameters based on the constitutive equation of creep of salt rock are obtained by combining theoretical with experimental research. A three-dimensional directional wellbore mechanical model is established to analyze the influence of inclination on borehole shrinkage.
Discordance for defects in monochorionic twins: prevalence and impact on perinatal outcomes
Authors: Litwińska Ewelina , Walasik Izabela , Szpotańska Monika , Stanirowski Paweł , Góra Tomasz , Szajner Tomasz , Janowicz-Grelewska Anna , Księżopolska Aleksandra , Ludwin Artur , Litwińska Magdalena 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
In monozygotic twin pregnancies the prevalence of congenital abnormalities is two times higher than in singletons. In 20% cases both fetuses are affected (concordance) but in 80% cases only on is affected (discordance). This study examines the prevalence of discordance for structural defects in monochorionic (MC) twins, report the types of detected abnormalities and their possible impact on perinatal outcomes including the rate of single and double fetal loss before 24 weeks’ gestation and the rate of preterm birth before 32 weeks’ gestation.
Methods
Retrospective study for discordant structural fetal anomalies in monochorionic twins by the first trimester scan in three fetal medicine centers in Poland.
Results
In the study population of 381 monochorionic twins examined at 11–13 weeks’ gestation, there were 21 (5.5%) pregnancies with discordant structural defects and normal array comparative genomic hybridisation (aCGH) result. The most common were cardiac defects (n = 8), subsequently central nervous system (n = 6), facial (n = 3), abdominal wall (n = 3) and genitourinary system (n = 1) defects. Single fetal loss and double fetal loss before 28 weeks occurred in 4 (19%) and 2 (9%) cases respectively and was associated with intertwin discordance in crown-rump length (CRL) of more than 20% (p = 0.046). Preterm birth before 32 weeks’ gestation occurred in 9 cases (47%) and was strongly associated with polyhydramnios (p = 0.001) which occurred mainly in CNS and facial defects.
Conclusions
Monochorionic twins are at increased risk for structural abnormalities. In cases of discordant defects, the most common are cardiac defects. Intertwin discordance of more than 20%, rather than type of a defect, increases the risk single or double fetal demise.
PBM Combined with hUCMSCs Modulates the Polarization of Microglia
Authors: Chen Hongli , Zhu Hongyu , Cai Yuanhao , Guo Jun , Liu Pai , Han Zhibo , Wei Xunbin , Liu Yi 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Neuroinflammation occurs and develops in neurodegenerative diseases, and the severity of neuroinflammation is closely linked to microglial polarization. Different phenotypes release inflammatory cytokines and perform distinct functions. Modulating microglial polarization to alter neuroinflammation is a potential therapeutic strategy. Currently, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) possess multiple properties of stem cells and can be used in inflammation modulation therapy. Various methods of pre-treatment stem cells have been shown enhance efficacy in disease treatment. Photobiomodulation (PBM), as a non-invasive intervention, has the ability to reduce inflammation.
Methods
Firstly, we constructed a cellular inflammation model to investigate the effect of PBM pre-treatment of hUCMSCs on inflammation and polarization of BV2 cells. We also investigated the effect of the Notch signaling pathway on cells. Secondly, an animal inflammation model was constructed to verify that PBM pre-treatment of hUCMSCs modulated microglia polarization and neuroinflammation.
Results
In our in vitro experiments, PBM pre-treatment of hUCMSCs reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines while promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine in microglia. The treatment significantly reduced the expression of Notch pathway-related genes in an inflammatory model, facilitated the reduction of M1 phenotype polarization and increased M2 phenotype polarization in microglia. In vivo studies demonstrated that 808 nm light combined with hUCMSCs improved memory behavior in male C57BL/6J mice and significantly reduced the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines in serum and brain tissue while promoting the expression of anti-inflammatory cytokine and the M2 phenotype polarization of microglia.
Conclusions
Overall, our results reveal that photobiomodulation with 808 nm light plays a crucial role in modulating microglial function through its interaction with hUCMSCs, providing novel insights into the molecular mechanism underlying microglial polarization.
7p22.3 microdeletion: a case study of a patient with congenital heart defect, neurodevelopmental delay and epilepsy
Authors: Skvortsova Liliya , Perfilyeva Anastassiya , Bespalova Kira , Kuzovleva Yelena , Kabysheva Nailya , Khamdiyeva Ozada 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Chromosome 7 has regions enriched with low copy repeats (LCRs), which increase the likelihood of chromosomal microdeletion disorders. Documented microdeletion disorders on chromosome 7 include both well-known Williams syndrome and more rare cases. It is noteworthy that most cases of various microdeletions are characterized by phenotypic signs of neuropsychological developmental disorders, which, however, have a different genetic origin. The localization of the microdeletions, the genes included in the region, as well as the structural features of the sequences of these genes have a cumulative influence on the phenotypic characteristics of the individuals for each specific case and the severity of the manifestations of disorders. The consideration of these features and their detailed analysis is important for a correct and comprehensive assessment of the disease.
Results
The article describes a clinical case of 7p22.3 microdeletion in a patient with congenital heart defect and neurological abnormalities - epilepsy, combined with moderate mental and motor developmental delay.
Conclusions
Through detailed genetic analyses, we are improving the clinical description of the rare 7p22.3 microdeletion and thus creating a basis for future genetic counseling and research into targeted therapies.
OCTOPUS: Operation Control System for Task Optimization and Job Parallelization via a User-Optimal Scheduler
Authors: Han Sang Soo , Yoo Hyuk Jun , Lee Kwan-Young , Kim Donghun 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The materials acceleration platform (MAP), empowered by robotics and artificial intelligence, is a transformative approach for expediting material discovery processes across diverse domains. However, the development of an operating system for MAP faces challenges in simultaneously managing diverse experiments from multiple users. Specifically, when MAP is utilized by multiple users, the overlapping challenges of experimental modules or devices can lead to inefficiencies in both resource utilization and safety hazards. To overcome these challenges, we present an operation control system for MAP, namely, OCTOPUS, which is an acronym for operation control system for task optimization and job parallelization via a user-optimal scheduler. OCTOPUS streamlines experiment scheduling and optimizes resource utilization through integrating its interface node, master node and module nodes. Leveraging process modularization and a network protocol, OCTOPUS ensures the homogeneity, scalability, safety and versatility of MAP. In addition, OCTOPUS embodies a user-optimal scheduler. Job parallelization and task optimization techniques mitigate delays and safety hazards within realistic operational environments, while the closed-packing schedule algorithm efficiently executes multiple jobs with minimal resource waste. This work offers a solution to the challenges encountered within MAP accessed by multiple users, and thereby will facilitate its widespread adoption in material development processes.
Activation of alpha 2 adrenergic receptor of cerebrospinal fluid-contacting nucleus alleviates acute incision pain behavior in rats
Authors: Meng Xiang-ting , Song Si-yuan , Li Yin , Peng Sheng , Zhang Li-cai 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Purpose Studies have shown that the cerebrospinal fluid(CSF) contacting nucleus plays a role in pain modulation. Dexmedetomidine (DEX), an alpha 2-adrenergic receptor agonist, has sedative, analgesic and anti-anxiety effects. In this study, we intend to investigate whether DEX can modulate acute incision pain by activating specific receptors on CSF-contacting neurons (CSF-CN) through lateral ventricular microinjection. Methods Cholera toxin B subunit (CB)- saporin (SAP) was injected into the lateral ventricle (LV) of rats to specifically damage CSF contacting nucleus and establish CSF-contacting nucleus “knockout” model animal. The model of acute incision pain was applied in rats, and mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia were adopted to evaluate the analgesic effect of DEX injected into LV. Further, to observe whether the CSF-contacting nucleus “knockout” could abate the analgesic effect of DEX. Immunofluorescence assay was used to detect the damage effect of CB-SAP on CSF-CN and the expression of alpha 2-adrenergic receptor in the CSFCN. The level of the second messenger cAMP in the CSF-CN was detected by ELISA. Results Immunofluorescence assay showed that 1 week after CB-SAP microinjection into the LV, the CSF-CN were completely damaged in rats, which successfully established the CSF contacting nucleus “knockout” rat model. Meanwhile, immunofluorescence confirmed the presence of alpha 2 adrenergic receptors in the neuron of CSF-contacting nucleus. Microinjection of dexmedetomidine into the LV could inhibit the pain behavior of rats in dose dependent manner, and the analgesic effect of DEX was significantly attenuated in CSF-contacting nucleus “knockout” rats. Conclusion Activation of alpha 2 adrenergic receptor of cerebrospinal fluid-contacting nucleus could modulate acute incision pain behavior in rats.
Identification and validation of prognostic signature and immune infiltrate characteristics for acute myocardial infarction based on neutrophil extracellular traps
Authors: Bao Suli , Wu Xinyu , Li Jingru , Wu Changyong , Yang Lu , sun huang , Li Ruijie , wang luqiao , Peng Yunzhu 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Background
Coronary artery blockage can lead to acute myocardial infarction (AMI), characterized by myocardial ischemia, necrosis, and compromised cardiac function. Recent studies highlight the significance of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) in AMI's progression and prognosis. This research delves into the expression patterns of NETs-related genes (NRGs) in AMI cases. It aims to explore the association between immune infiltration linked to NRGs and AMI, as well as their potential as prognostic markers.
Methods
Data for AMI was sourced from the GSE59867 dataset in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database, complemented by NETs-related genes from existing literature. Differential expression analysis of these genes (DE-NRGs) was conducted between control and AMI samples. This was followed by functional enrichment analysis of the DE-NRGs. The degree of immune infiltration was quantified via ImmuncellAI, facilitating the analysis of correlations between critical genes and neutrophils. A LASSO algorithm-based model was developed using NRGs to predict relevant features. Subsequently, a protein-protein interaction (PPI) network analysis of the DE-NRGs was performed to identify central hub genes and potential high-correlation predictors. The validity of these analyses was confirmed through the development of an AMI rat model and subsequent validation of key predictors via Western blotting.
Results
In the bioinformatics examination of the GSE59867 dataset, a notable variance in gene expression was observed between AMI and normal samples. Analysis of immune infiltration in selected DE-NRGs revealed a significant link with Neutrophils, monocytes, and NK-T cells (p < 0.05). The LASSO algorithm identified nine potential predictors: CXCL 8, IL 1 B, CAT, PRKCA, HDAC 6, HDAC 9, G0S2, CD93, and GP1BA. When these were cross-referenced with the top 50 hub genes from the PPI network, four genes (CXCL 8, IL 1 B, PRKCA, HDAC 6) emerged as significant predictors for AMI risk classification. Notably, CXCL 8 exhibited a strong positive correlation with neutrophils (R = 0.35, p < 0.01), whereas PRCKA showed a negative association (R = -0.20, p < 0.01). Additional external validation affirmed the classifier's high accuracy (AUC = 0.82). Western blot analyses post-acute MI revealed a marked increase in citH 3 and CXCL 8 expression levels (p < 0.05).
Conclusions
A predictive model for AMI was developed based on NETs-associated genes, focusing on their correlation with immune infiltration. Four DE-NRGs, namely CXCL 8, IL 1 B, PRKCA, and HDAC 6, demonstrated high predictive accuracy for myocardial infarction risk. This model not only sheds light on the inflammatory injury in AMI but also suggests targeted therapeutic approaches for clinical management of AMI.
Comparison of three different surgical techniques for convergence excess esotroia
Authors: Elsayed Sahar , Mostafa Amira Mahmoud El-Sayed Mostafa , Gamal Mohamed Ayman Gamal , Hussein Atef Mohamed Hussein , Ghali Manar Atef Ghali 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The surgical management of convergence excess esotropia (CEET) with near-far disparity (NFD) is a challenging problem. We aim to compare the results of three different surgical procedures; bilateral medial rectus recession(MRR), combined recession–resection (CRR) and Y - splitting recession(YSR) of the medial rectus (MR) muscle. This was a retrospective comparative study of 60 patients records from (2019–2023) who met the inclusion criteria with CEET (NFD), had on their whole cycloplegic refraction and underwent surgical treatment. An acceptable result was outlined as orthophoria or esotropia, less than 10 prism diopters (Δ) at far and near with decline of the NFD to less than 10 Δ at the ending of the follow up period of 2 years. 13 of 20 patients (65%), 15 of 20 patients (75%), 18 of 20 patients (90%), had acceptable results at far and near in Group I (MRR), Group II (CRR) and Group III (YSR) respectively (p value was 0.21) statistically insignificant. No cases of overcorrection (exotropia) were reported at the final follow up visit (2 years) in the three groups. The three surgical techniques were successful but CRR was the most successful, durable, with steadiness of outcomes but extended follow-up periods are even so necessary.
A single-cell analysis of nasal epithelial cells development in domestic pig
Authors: Wang Wenqian , Liu Ruiling , Zhong Qiu , Cao Yunlei , Qi Jiaxin , Li Yuchen , Yang Qian 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The nasal mucosa forms a critical barrier against the invasion of respiratory pathogens. Composed of a heterogeneous assortment of cell types, the nasal mucosa relies on the unique characteristics and complex intercellular dynamics of these cells to maintain its structural integrity and functional efficacy. In this study, single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on porcine nasal mucosa was performed and twenty distinct nasal cell types were identified, including nine epithelial cell types, four stromal cell types, and seven immune cell types. Subsequently, the distribution patterns of three representative types of epithelial cells (including basal cells, goblet cells, and ciliated cells) were detected by immunofluorescence. We conducted a comparative analysis of these data with published human single-cell data, revealing consistent differentiation trajectories among porcine and human nasal epithelial cells. Specifically, basal cells serve as the initial stage in the differentiation process of nasal epithelial cells, which then differentiate into club cells, and further branch into ciliated cells or goblet cells. Moreover, we observed a significant degree of similarity in transcription characteristics of cell-cell junction molecules and various respiratory virus receptors between porcine and human epithelial cells. This research not only enhances our understanding of the composition and transcriptional signature of porcine nasal mucosal cells, but also offers a theoretical foundation for developing alternative models for human respiratory diseases.
The Impact of Different Rainfall on Food Security - Based on Empirical Evidence from China
Authors: Jiang SiMan , chen Shuyue , Xiao Qiqi , Fang Zhong 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Ensuring food security is not only vital to the adequate supply of food in the world, but also the key to the economic development and social stability of various countries. Based on the panel data of 29 provinces in China from 2016 to 2020, this paper selects the number of foodborne diseases patients and iodine deficiency disease patients as reference objects, uses stunting rate of children under 5 years old, malnutrition rate of children under 5 years old, obesity rate of children under 5 years old, and newborn visit rate to measure improving nutrition, proposes Meta Entropy Two-Stage Dynamic Direction Distance Function (DDF) Under an exogenous Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model to measure the efficiency of hunger eradication, food security, and improving nutrition under the influence of exogenous variable rainfall. The research results indicate that the sustainability of China's agricultural economy is insufficient, and the focus of attention should be different in different stages. In addition, the average efficiency of the three regions generally shows a decreasing level in the eastern, western, and central regions. In order to improve China's ability to guarantee food security, we must continue to strengthen the construction of agricultural infrastructure, increase policy support for green agricultural production, promote the diversification of agricultural production, and enrich people's agricultural product consumption varieties.
Biopreservation and Reversal of Oxidative Injury During Blood Storage by a Novel Curcumin-based Gel Formulation
Authors: Hicks Wayne , Jana Sirsendu , Kassa Tigist , Prince Richard , Cabrales Pedro , Friedman Joel , Alayash Abdu I. 
Published: May 2024

Abstract

Blood storage lesion induces cytosolic and membrane changes driven in part by hemoglobin (Hb) oxidation reactions within red blood cells (RBCs). A novel gel formulation containing the antioxidant curcuminoids in a biocompatible solvent system was used to deliver curcumin into RBCs. Incubation of peroxide treated RBCs stored in PBS with curcumin gel led to a reduction in prooxidant ferrylHb and recovery in ATP. Curcumin treatment prevented band 3 tyrosine (Y359 and Y21) phosphorylation. RBCs stored in AS-3 solutions for 28, 35, 42 and 49 days, following a single-dose of 100µM curcuminoids at each time points, caused reduction in protein carbonylation and considerable recovery in ATP levels. Proteomic analysis revealed minimal changes in the proteomic landscape in 35 days. However, a downregulation in fibrinogen was observed in the treated samples which may reduce RBC aggregation. Additionally, we used a guinea pig model where the circulation of infused aged RBCs can be extended (approximately 10%) when treated with curcumin gel at the start of storage. Our data therefore provide mechanistic insights and supportive animal data into benefits of treating stored RBCs with a novel curcuminoid formulation based on the biopreservation of RBC membrane integrity, redox balance, and increased longevity in circulation.