bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Low erythropoietin to albumin ratio in the serum predicts less reversibility of renal impairment with poorer prognosis in multiple myeloma
Authors: Liu Ying , Bai Yanliang , Liu Xiaobo , Li Weiya , Wang Haoyan , Niu Junwei , Niu Xiaona , Xiao Xingjun , Chen Yuqing , Sun Kai 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Purpose
Renal impairment (RI) is a common complication of Multiple myeloma (MM). It is worth noting that the irreversible and sustained decline in renal function in these patients not only seriously affects the optimal treatment options, but also leads to poor prognosis. Currently, there is a lack of a reliable laboratory index to predict whether renal function can be reversed. In this study, we investigated whether the serum erythropoietin (EPO) to albumin ratio can be used as an independent predictor of changes in renal injury after treatment in patients with MM.
Methods
52 MM-related RI patients were retrospectively divided into reversible and non- reversible groups according to whether they developed major renal response. Logistic regression analyses were used to explore potential predictors of reversibility of MM-related RI. ROC curves analyses were performed for EPO/albumin and other predictors to determine the best marker to predict reversibility of MM-related RI. The prognostic value of EPO/albumin was investigated by Kaplan-Meier analyses.
Results
We unexpectedly found serum albumin was higher in the non-reversible group than in the reversible group. Of note, the serum levels of albumin were negatively correlated with EPO in these patients. Importantly, EPO/albumin was an independent predictor of the reversal of MM-related RI. Also, EPO/albumin provided the highest predictive efficiency. When the higher and lower EPO/albumin groups were further defined, the former group exhibited a prolonged OS.
Conclusions
Serum EPO/albumin is useful for predicting reversibility of MM-related RI. Low EPO/albumin could predict less reversibility of RI with poorer prognosis in MM.
Different Secure Semi-quantum Summation Models without Measurement
Authors: Tian Yuan , Zhang Nanyijia , Ye Chongqiang , Bian Genqing , Li Jian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Secure semi-quantum summation entails the collective computation of the sum of private secrets by multi-untrustworthy and resource-limited participants, facilitated by a quantum third-party. This paper introduces three semi-quantum summation protocols based on single photons, where eliminating the need for classical users to possess measurement capabilities. Two-party protocol 1 and protocol 2 are structured upon different models: star and ring, respectively. The security analysis extensively evaluates the protocols' resilience against outside and inside attacks, demonstrating protocols are asymptotically secure. Protocol 3 extends two-party protocol 1 to multi-party scenarios, broadening its applicability. Comparison reveals a reduction in the workload for classical users compared to previous similar protocols, and the protocols' correctness are visually validated through simulation by Qiskit.
Energy Imports and Infrastructure in a Carbon-Neutral European Energy System
Authors: Neumann Fabian , Hampp Johannes , Brown Tom 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Importing renewable energy to Europe offers many potential benefits, including reduced energy costs, lower pressure on infrastructure development, and less land-use within Europe. However, there remain many open questions: on the achievable cost reductions, how much should be imported, whether the energy vector should be electricity, hydrogen or hydrogen derivatives like ammonia or steel, and their impact on Europe's domestic energy infrastructure needs. This study integrates the TRACE global energy supply chain model with the sector-coupled energy system model for Europe PyPSA-Eur to explore scenarios with varying import volumes, costs, and vectors. We find system cost reductions of 1-14%, depending on assumed import costs, with diminishing returns for larger import volumes and a preference for methanol, steel and hydrogen imports. Keeping some domestic power-to-X production is beneficial for integrating variable renewables, utilising waste heat from fuel synthesis and leveraging local sustainable carbon sources. Our findings highlight the need for coordinating import strategies with infrastructure policy and reveal maneuvering space for incorporating non-cost decision factors.
The Role of NK cells in Novel Nomogram Predicting Radiation Pneumonitis in LS-SCLC
Authors: Xin Wanlu , Dong Lei , Li Xindi , Bai Yan , Yue Dan , Quan Xiaoyue , Liu Min , Fan Xia , WU Hongfen , Liu Shixin 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Radiation pneumonitis (RP) is a common complication in patients with small cell lung cancer (SCLC) undergoing radiotherapy, and its occurrence is directly linked to the dosage received. The purpose of this study is to ascertain the predictive significance of the proportion of natural killer (NK) cells within the overall immune cell population in individuals with limited stage small cell lung cancer (LS-SCLC) undergoing radical radiotherapy.
Method
Participants included in a retrospective study at Jilin Cancer Hospital between 2019 and 2020 were individuals diagnosed with LS-SCLC who underwent radiation therapy. Statistical analysis encompassed an independent sample t-test or the Mann-Whitney-U test. The chi-square test or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables. Logistic regression was used for multivariate analysis, and a predictive model using 'R' version 4.3.2 was constructed. The model's accuracy was assessed through ROC curves, AUC, and calibration curve. Additionally, the model's clinical relevance was evaluated through clinical decision curves and clinical impact curves.
Result
A total of 123 subjects were included. RP was observed in 25 individuals (20.3%). Results from the univariate analysis indicated that RP was significantly associated with the maximum esophageal dose (MXED), the mean ipsilateral lung dose (MILD), and the maximum ipsilateral lung dose (MXILD) (P < 0.01). Moreover, there were significant correlations between RP and the level of NK cells in the total immune cell population as well as response evaluation in the univariate analysis (all P < 0.05). The multivariate analysis further confirmed the significance of the level of NK cells proportion, MILD, and response evaluation in predicting RP. These factors were then utilized to construct a predictive nomogram model for RP.
Conclusion
NK cells can reflect inflammatory and tumor microenvironments. The proportion level of NK cells in overall immune cell population can serve as a predictive factor for radiation pneumonitis in LS-SCLC patients undergoing thoracic radiation. A nomogram incorporating the proportion level of NK cells in the immune cell population holds potential for future clinical applications.
Analysis of Magnetic fluid based porous rough short bearing with viscosity variation and elastic deformation
Authors: Patel Jimit R. , Deheri G. M. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The investigation of the elastic deformation effect in a porous, rough, short bearing lubricated by a ferrofluid and taking the effect of viscosity variation has been explored. The study adopted Rosensweig's viscosity expression to assess the impact of viscosity variation and Neuringer-Rosensweig's model for magnetic fluid flow. An averaged stochastic modified Reynolds equation has been derived to calculate pressure distribution as a function of elastic deformation, viscosity variation, porosity, and aspect ratio parameters followed by load calculation. The analysis of Load Carrying Capacity (LCC) has been presented in graphical forms, taking into account various bearing parameters. The findings indicate that the LCC can be enhanced by increasing magnetization and viscosity variation choosing a suitably aspect ratio parameter. However, the LCC is reduced with increasing elastic deformation, roughness and porosity parameters. But the load bearing capacity gets reduced by the combined effect of porosity, transverse roughness and deformation. However, the viscosity variation effect may retrieve the situation to a nominal extent when the deformation is less.
5,7- Dimethoxycoumarin Indirectly Enhances Insulin Release, But Directly Induces the Synthesis and Secretion of Amylin, 3 Times More Than Glimepiride
Authors: Ofodire Emeka , Ghasi Samuel , Mbah Anthony , Ugwu Edith U. , Mbah Theophilus O. , Mbaoji Emmanuel C. , Onah Ifeoma C. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

ObjectiveOxidative stress decreases the ability of β-cells to secrete insulin through glucolipotoxicity of the pancreatic islets. Flavonoids modulate insulin and amylin secretion through mainly antioxidant activities. Coumarins isomers of flavonoids have direct effects on the cardiovascular system, not linked to antioxidant activities. This study aim to investigate in vivo the direct effects of 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin (Citropten) fractions present in grapefruit peel on insulin and amylin secretions in normal male Wistar rats.MethodsMethanol extract of grapefruit peels was fractionated using vacuum assisted liquid chromatography with n-Hexane, Ethyl acetate and Methanol. Gas Chromatography Mass Spectrometry analysis reported ethyl acetate fraction with highest concentration (85.66%) of 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin. Intraperitoneal Glucose Tolerance Test was performed on 5 sets of 5 rats receiving intraperitoneally: 1) negative control, 1ml of sterile water 2) positive control, 0.2mg/kg glimepiride, 3) ethyl acetate fraction containing 20mg/kg 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin, 4) methanol fraction containing 20mg/kg 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin 5a)1ml H2O2(0.6%, 6%) plus 20mg/kg 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin, and 5b)1000mg/kg Vitamin C plus 20mg/kg 5,7-dimethoxycoumarin.ResultsResults showed Ethyl acetate fractions containing 10mg/kg and 20mg/kg dimethoxycoumarin had comparable plasma glucose control with glimepiride. Both ethyl acetate and methanol fractions of 5,7- dimethoxycoumarin had indirect insulin secretion effect, but directly induced amylin synthesis and secretion 3-fold that of glimepiride.Conclusion5,7-dimethoxycoumarin will find special application in diabetics with chronic complications. Since the overall plasma glucose regulation is achieved through amylin and insulin synergy, attention should be shifted from insulin-based to amylin-based therapy, and also shifted from regulating blood glucose level to regulating its absorption in the GIT.
Nonlinear optimal control for VSI-fed six-phase PMSMs in the traction of electric vehicles
Authors: Rigatos Gerasimos , Abbaszadeh Masoud , Hamida Mohamed Assaad , Siano Pierluigi , Zoheir Tir 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
The need for high power in electric vehicles has motivated the use of multi-phase electric motors in the associated traction systems. In this article, a nonlinear optimal control approach is developed for voltage-source inverter-fed six-phase Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors which can be used in electric vehicles' traction. The dynamic model of the VSI-fed six-phase PMSM undergoes approximate linearization around a temporary operating point that is recomputed at each time-step of the control method. The linearization is based on Taylor series expansion and on the associated Jacobian matrices. For the linearized state-space model of the system a stabilizing optimal (H-infinity) feedback controller is designed. This controller stands for the solution to the nonlinear optimal control problem under model uncertainty and external perturbations. To compute the controller's feedback gains an algebraic Riccati equation is repetitively solved at each iteration of the control algorithm. The stability properties of the control method are proven through Lyapunov analysis. The differential flatness properties of the state-space model of the six-phase PMSM are also proven, thus allowing to solve the setpoints definition problem in the motor's functioning. To estimate non-measurable state variables and to implement sensorless control for the dynamic model of the six-phase PMSMs, the H-infinity Kalman Filter is used as a robust state estimator. It is shown that under the proposed control scheme fast and accurate tracking of reference setpoints is achieved with moderate variations of the control inputs.
Economic Prosperity and Religion Nexus in Africa: Analysing the Innovation and Labor Market Channels
Authors: Adom Philip Kofi , Adams Samuel , Ashun Dorian 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This study contributes to the literature on economic growth and religion by analyzing innovation and labor market channels in Africa. We adopt an innovative approach to controlling causal inference from religion to economic prosperity on the one hand and from religion to innovation and labor market participation on the other hand. Our approach involves using instrumental variables and addressing measurement errors and business cycle effects. Consistently, we demonstrate that there is a trade-off between the proliferation of the Christian religion and economic prosperity, and this finding is driven by the negative incentive to participate in labor markets and innovative processes among religious actors. Our findings underscore the significance of religion/culture in explaining innovation, labor market participation, and economic prosperity.
JEL Codes: O11, O47, O55, A14, B55
Lewy Body Formation through the lens of Cytokine-Mediated Neuroinflammation in Parkinson's Disease Development
Authors: Shafi Viqas 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Background:
Understanding inflammation's role in Parkinson's disease (PD) is crucial for uncovering therapeutic targets and improving patient outcomes. Inflammatory cytokines like TNF-alpha, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL-18, IL-23, IL-33, IFN-γ, and TNF-β contribute to neurodegeneration. Insights into inflammation's mechanisms may lead to disease-modifying treatments, aid in diagnosing PD, and inform the study of other neurodegenerative disorders. This study seeks to elucidate inflammation's impact on PD pathogenesis and identify potential therapeutic interventions.
Methods:
A comprehensive search encompassing databases such as PubMed, MEDLINE, Google Scholar, open access / subscription-based journals, was conducted to retrieve relevant articles for the investigation of the involvement of pro-inflammatory cytokines in neuroinflammation and their impact on Parkinson's disease (PD) development in relation to Lewy Body formation. Articles were searched without any date restrictions. Utilizing the criteria delineated in the methodology section, studies were systematically reviewed to elucidate the relationship between pro-inflammatory cytokines and Parkinson's disease progression. This study adheres to relevant PRISMA guidelines (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses).
Results:
Dysregulation of inflammatory cytokines TNF-alpha, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL-18, IL-23, IL-33, IFN-γ, and TNF-β occurs in Parkinson's disease (PD). These cytokines contribute to neuroinflammation, disrupting neuronal homeostasis and promoting α-synuclein aggregation, leading to Lewy body formation. Activation of microglia and astrocytes initiates a cascade of events, including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and impaired protein clearance mechanisms. This cascade results in neuronal damage and dysfunction characteristic of PD. This study points to potential crosstalk between inflammatory pathways and α-synuclein pathology, further exacerbating neurodegeneration. Overall, the results underscore the critical role of inflammation in PD pathogenesis, highlighting the need for targeted anti-inflammatory therapies to mitigate neurodegeneration and alleviate PD symptoms.
Conclusion:
Inflammation involving TNF-alpha, IL-1β, IL-6, IL-12, IL-18, IL-23, IL-33, IFN-γ, and TNF-β disrupts neuronal homeostasis, fostering Lewy body formation in Parkinson's disease. Activation of microglia and astrocytes triggers neuroinflammation, exacerbating oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and protein clearance impairment. This cascade of events leads to neuronal damage and α-synuclein aggregation. Consequently, PD symptoms arise from neuronal dysfunction and degeneration. Targeting cytokine-mediated inflammation offers a potential therapeutic strategy for PD, necessitating further research into its mechanistic intricacies.
The Effects of One-to-One Laptop Program on Help-Seeking and Homework Completion
Authors: Bisaillon Jérémie , Villeneuve Stéphane , Stockless Alain 
Published: April 2024

Many students prefer to abandon rather than seek help during their homework. However, seeking support is recognized as an effective learning strategy to complete assignments. Technology-supported classroom could have a beneficial impact on this strategy and, therefore, on homework completion. This article aims to compare students from a one-to-one laptop program to others studying in a traditional classroom environment on their 1) help-seeking strategies and 2) homework completion frequency. Quantitative analyses tend to confirm the initial hypothesis. However, they reveal the necessity to sensitize students regarding the appropriate use of technological tools to ensure their beneficial impact on learning.
Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever: Risk Factors in Pakistani Cohort
Authors: Anjum Aliza , Assad Arfa Ahmad , Sadia Ayesha , Maimoona Aleeza , Sarwar Shahid 
Published: April 2024

Background: Dengue fever is a mosquito-borne infectious disease with potential complications such as dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) and dengue shock syndrome (DSS) and has fatality risk of greater than 20% if left untreated. There is lot of heterogeneity in factors predicting development of DHF in different populations.
Objective: To determine clinical, biochemical and radiological parameters associated with risk of developing DHF in Pakistani population.
Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in Jinnah Hospital Lahore from October 2022 to December 2022. 180 patients with confirmed Dengue fever were included. Detailed history, clinical examination and laboratory/radiological investigations were performed. Patients were followed for development of DHF. Univariate analysis followed by logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent predictors for DHF.
Results: Among 180 patients with Dengue fever with mean age of 33.04 (+14.12) and male to female ratio of 1.53/1 (109/71), we identified presence of mucosal bleeding {OR 4.7 (95% CI 2.05-10.78)p value <0.000}, abdominal pain {OR 2.73 (95% CI 1.17-4.38)p value 0.013}, persistent vomiting {OR 3.09 (95% CI 1.51-6.34)p value 0.002}, tender right hypochondrium {OR 3.98 (95% CI 1.94-8.16) p value <0.000} and presence of peri-cholecystic fluid {OR 7.78 (95% CI 3.25-18.63)p value < 0.000} to be significantly associated with risk of developing DHF with 83.6% accuracy on logistic regression analysis.
Conclusion: Mucosal bleeding, right hypochondrium pain, persistent vomiting and presence of peri-cholecystic fluid in a patient of dengue fever predict risk of developing dengue hemorrhagic fever.
Discovery of Novel Natural Inhibitors Against SARS-CoV-2 Main Protease: A Rational Approach to Antiviral Therapeutics
Authors: Waqas Muhammad , Ullah Saeed , Ahsan Halim Sobia , Ullah Inam , Najeeb Ur Rehman  , Jan Afnan , Khalid Asaad , Ali Amjad , Khan Ajmal , Al-Harrasi Ahmed 
Published: April 2024

Background/Aim:
The global pandemic caused by the novel SARS-CoV-2
virus underscores the urgent need for therapeutic interventions. Targeting the virus's
main protease (Mpro), crucial for viral replication, is a promising strategy.

Objective:
The current study aims to discover novel inhibitors of Mpro.

Methods:
The current study identified five natural compounds (myrrhanol B (C1), myrrhanone
B (C2), catechin (C3), quercetin (C4), and feralolide (C5) with strong inhibitory
potential against Mpro through virtual screening and computational methods, predicting
their binding efficiencies and validated it using the in-vitro inhibition activity. The
selected compound's toxicity was examined using the MTT assay on a human BJ cell
line.

Results:
Compound C1 exhibited the highest binding affinity, with a docking score of
-9.82 kcal/mol and strong hydrogen bond interactions within Mpro's active site. A microscale
molecular dynamics simulation confirmed the stability and tight fit of the compounds
in the protein's active pocket, showing superior binding interactions. in vitro assays
validated their inhibitory effects, with C1 having the most significant potency
(IC50 = 2.85 μM). The non-toxic nature of these compounds in human BJ cell lines was
also confirmed, advocating their safety profile.

Conclusion:
These findings highlight the effectiveness of combining computational and
experimental approaches to identify potential lead compounds for SARS-CoV-2, with
C1-C5 emerging as promising candidates for further drug development against this
virus.

conclusion:
These findings highlight the effectiveness of combining computational and experimental approaches to identify potential lead compounds for SARS-CoV-2, with C1-C5 emerging as promising candidates for further drug development against this virus.
Synthesis, Structure, and Antimicrobial Properties of New Cobalt(II) Complexes with
1-Propargylimidazoles
Authors: Sterkhova Irina V. , Parshina Lidiya N. , Grishchenko Lyudmila A. , Borodina Tatyana N. , Belovezhets Lyudmila A. , Semenov Valentin A. 
Published: April 2024

Abstract:
Complexes of cobalt(II) chloride with 1-propargylimidazole, 1-propargyl-2-methylimidazole, and 1-
propargylbenzimidazole ligands were synthesized and studied by FTIR spectroscopy and X-ray analysis. According
to the X-ray analysis, the crystal molecules of compounds were connected by non-covalent interactions,
such as halogen bonds and π-stacking. The nature and energy of coordination metal-ligand and noncovalent
bonds for structures under study were estimated in the frame of QTAIM (Quantum Theory “Atoms In
Molecules”). The antimicrobial activity of obtained cobalt(II) chloride complexes was evaluated in relation to
microorganisms E. durans, B. subtilis, and E. coli. Complexes of 1-propargyl-2-methylimidazole and 1-
propargylbenzimidazole with cobalt(II) chloride demonstrated high activity against E. coli and E. durans relatively
and could be recommended as antimicrobial drugs.