bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
In vitro immunomodulation of RAW 264.7 macrophages by medicinal plants used traditionally to treat pulmonary tuberculosis in South Africa.
Authors: Shauli Mathulo M , Macingwana Lubabalo , Rusike Constance Rufaro 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background
Pulmonary tuberculosis is one of the leading causes of death in developing countries. The global health burden, which is worsened by the emergence of multi-drug resistance against the standard World Health Organization treatment regimen, calls for new interventions and alternative methods to address the pandemic, and medicinal plants remain a source of hope for the development of new interventions. This study aimed to investigate the in vitro immunomodulatory effects of three plants used traditionally for the treatment of PTB in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. For M. tuberculosis to be destroyed when it enters the lung tissue, immune macrophages must maintain the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype. Thus, a plant extract with a high potential for anti-tuberculosis effects is expected to produce a high concentration of nitric oxide (NO) as the indicator for the pro-inflammatory M1 phenotype.
Methods
To test this effect, lipopolysaccharide-activated RAW 264.7 macrophages were cultured and treated with the ethanolic crude extracts of three plants: Anthrixia philycoides, Lippia javaniva, and Sanicula elata at concentrations of 50µg/ml, 100µg/ml, and 200 µg/ml. After 24h, 50µl Griess reagent was added to the plates and absorbance was measured using a Bio TekR Power Wave XS spectrophotometer (Winooski, VT, USA) at 540nm. A standard curve of sodium nitrite dissolved in culture media was used to determine the concentration of NO in each sample.
Results
The results showed that two plants; Anthrixia philycoides, and Lippia javanica, displayed anti-inflammatory activity compared with the positive control (+ AG) control, while Sanicula elata exhibited pro-inflammatory activity, producing a high amount of NO at the lowest concentration, compared with the positive control (LPS).
Conclusion
Our results have revealed the polarizing activity of Sanicula elata on macrophages towards M1 phenotype which is evident of the nitric oxide production seen in this study, thus warranting further investigations of medicinal plant for anti-TB activity in the animal model.
Pelargonidin Inhibits Cell Growth and Promotes Oxidative Stress-Mediated Apoptosis in Lung Cancer A549 Cells
Authors: Yue Liwei , Li Ying , Luo Yuting , Alarfaj Abdullah A. , Shi Yubo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background:Lung cancer has the worst prognosis with an average 5-year survival rate of only 10-20%. Lung cancer has the highest prevalence rate and a second most common cause of cancer-associated mortalities worldwide.Objective:The present study was planned to explore the anticancer effects of pelargonidin against the lung cancer A549 cells via analyzing oxidative stress-mediated apoptosis.Methodology:The viability of both control and pelargonidin-treated A549 cells was analyzed using the MTT cytotoxicity assay at different time periods. The levels of endogenous ROS generation, mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), and apoptosis was assessed using corresponding fluorescent staining assays. The levels of oxidative stress biomarkers including TBARS, SOD, CAT, and GSH in the cell lysates of control and pelargonidin-treated A549 cells was examined using the assay kits.Results:The pelargonidin treatment at diverse concentrations were substantially suppressed the viability of lung cancer A549 cells with an IC50 range of 20 μM for 48 hr. The further treatment with 20 and 40 µM effectively promoted the endogenous ROS production and depleted the Δψm levels in the A549 cells. The outcomes of the dual staining and DAPI staining assays witnessed the occurrence of increased apoptosis in the pelargonidin-treated A549 cells. The pelargonidin also boosted the TBARS and reduced the CAT, SOD, and GSH levels thereby promoted the oxidative stress-regulated apoptosis in the A549 cells.Conclusion:In summary, the findings results of the current study demonstrated an anticancer activity of pelargonidin on A549 cells. The pelargonidin treatment substantially decreased the growth and encouraged the oxidative stress-regulated apoptosis in A549 cells. Therefore, it was evident that the pelargonidin could be employed as an effective anticancer candidate to treat the lung cancer.
Novel solution strategies for multiparametric nonlinear optimization problems with convex objective function and linear constraints
Authors: Narciso Diogo , Pistikopoulos Efstratios 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

This paper expands the Multiparametric Quadratic Programming (mp-QP) framework presented in \cite{nar22} to the more general Multiparametric Nonlinear Programming (mp-NLP) case. First, the vector of parameters in mp-NLP problems is recast so that a unique transformed parameter is implicitly assigned to each of the inequality constraints. Maps of critical regions in this transformed space of parameters feature a set of 1-dimensional parametric edges (two per inequality constraint), which then greatly facilitate solution calculation. In the mp-NLP case, however, parametric edges define nonlinear semi-infinite lines; this requires an adaptation to the mp-QP algorithm (deals with linear parametric edges only), to enable a suitable calculation path to the more general nonlinear case. Three routes are proposed to mp-NLPs: the first route delivers solutions in compact form (same format as in mp-QP) using a single reference point per edge; the second route delivers explicit solutions using a hybrid approach for critical region construction, where all active sets not detected in the parameters space are excluded from the solution (equivalent to first route concerning accuracy); the third route builds on the initial explicit solution and further partitions the parameters space until all solution fragments satisfy an error check. Five algorithms were coded for these routes, and tested in a large range of mp-NLP problems. These strategies enable significant improvements in terms of solution accuracy, algorithm efficiency, and interpretability when compared to the state-of-the-art mp-NLP algorithms.
Application of CED and HED techniques for Shockwave Detection with High-speed Schlirden and Shadowgraph images
Authors: Paramasivam Vinoth Kumar , Narayanan Jayaprakash 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Schlieren and shadowgraph images are valuable tools in aerospace engineering due to their user-friendly nature. They are commonly used to gain insights into flow patterns, particularly in the context of high-speed phenomena. Investigating dynamic shock wave structures, such as shock reflection patterns and interactions between shock waves and boundary layers, involves the use of high-speed Schlieren and shadowgraph systems. These techniques are vital for understanding complex aerodynamic phenomena. Typically, sequences of Schlieren and shadowgraph images are used for qualitative analysis. These image sequences serve as the foundation for understanding and interpreting the observed flow patterns. Dealing with extensive data from high-speed Schlieren and shadowgraph images often requires image processing methods. This includes techniques like background subtraction, edge recognition, and shock detection to enhance the quality of data and enable detailed analysis. The phenomenon of shock wave detection from a high-speed airflow over a forward-facing step is discussed in this article. This real-world example illustrates the practical application of Schlieren and shadowgraph imaging and the importance of accurate shockwave detection by comparing two different image processing methods for shockwave detection: Canny Edge Detection (CED) and Holistically-Nested Edge Detection (HED). According to the data, HED performs better than CED at correctly identifying shockwaves in Schlieren and shadowgraph images.
Development of a patient decision aid for type 2 diabetes mellitus: a patient-centered approach
Authors: Tichler Anna , Hertroijs Dorijn , Ruwaard Dirk , Brouwers Martijn , Elissen Arianne 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background:
Patient decision aids (PDAs) have been shown to effectively facilitate shared decision-making (SDM) between patients and healthcare professionals. The International Patient Decision Aid Standards (IPDAS) Collaboration created a model for the systematic development of PDAs, offering guidance to PDA developers. However, the absence of a solid evidence base limits practical recommendations for best practices. For example, uncertainties exist about the most appropriate method for identifying the needs and preferences of patients and healthcare professionals. We aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the development process (including key stakeholders and methodologies employed), using the IPDAS model, for the development of a PDA for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
Methods:
Between September 2020 and February 2023, we systematically developed the PDA for T2DM in the Netherlands. We adopted a patient-centered approach by researching patient considerations and actively collaborating with a multidisciplinary steering group that represented all relevant stakeholders in Dutch diabetes care (e.g., patients with T2DM, healthcare professionals, and patient organizations). The content of the PDA and the development of a prototype were determined by incorporating the needs and preferences of patients, input from the steering group, and available evidence regarding treatment options for T2DM. The research team and steering group iteratively reviewed the PDA prototype.
Results:
A web-based PDA was developed consisting of five sections: 1) information about T2DM and the available treatment options; 2) comparison of treatment options based on, for example, risk of cardiovascular diseases and effect on daily life; 3) questions to assess patients’ knowledge; 4) value-clarification exercise; and 5) summary of the patient’s journey through the PDA. Before patients use the PDA, healthcare professionals can make a preselection of the most relevant treatment options.
Conclusions:
Patients and healthcare professionals were involved in the development process of the PDA for T2DM in an early and iterative way. This ensured that the PDA is aligned with the needs and preferences of the end-users. In a future study, we will investigate the effectiveness of the PDA in facilitating shared decision-making in the treatment of T2DM.
Trial registration: International Clinical Trials Registry Platform ID: NL8948, date of registration: 05-10-2020
Anti-inflammatory peptides as promising therapeutics agent against inflammatory bowel diseases: A systematic review
Authors: Ghazvini Kiarash , Amirfakhrian Razieh , Taghiabadi Zahra 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Background
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is still an idiopathic condition; however, is probably associated to the dysregulation of gut mucosal immunity, intestinal microbiota dysbiosis, and environmental risk factors. Therefore, need call for novel therapeutic strategies. We aim to systematically review the latest current evidence on anti-inflammatory peptides (AIPs) as a new treatment approach in IBD, particularly by focus on Ulcerative Colitis and Cron’s diseases.
Methodology:
This systematic study was carried out in February 2023 following PRISMA 2020 guideline. Published studies that investigate the use of anti-inflammatory peptides for IBD treatment in were retrieved through searches of the literature in the Medline, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases.
Results
Seventeen studies satisfied the predesigned criteria and were involved, in which 12 of them used animal models of IBD, 4 were clinical trials, and one study was case-control. Results showed that H-SN1, a peptide derived from the snake’s venom and glucagon-like peptide-2 dimer (GLP-2②), significantly inhibits TNF cytotoxicity. Moreover, oral administration of AVX-470 (bovine-derived, anti-TNF antibody) reduced TNF, MPO, and apoptosis levels in enterocytes. Maintaining gut hemostasis and reversing gut dysbiosis could be effective in IBD treatment which Ac2-26 (a peptide that mimics annexin A1) and a combination of the αs2-casein peptide with synbiotics were helpful in this condition. AMP-18 (gastrokine-1) and MBCP (peptide derived from buffalo milk) can aid in preserving the intestinal barrier’s integrity by stabilizing tight junctions (TJs). This could potentially prevent IBD from occurring.
Conclusion
AIPs help reduce inflammation, regulate gut microbiota, and stabilize the intestinal barrier. However, their effectiveness can be limited due to destruction by proteases or harm to host cells. Further research should focus on improving their pharmacokinetic characteristics for better therapeutic potential.
Log Poisoning Attacks in Internet of Things (IoT)
Authors: Noman Haitham Ameen , Abu-Sharkh Osama M.F. , Noman Sinan Ameen 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

The rapid spread of IoT devices has introduced a complex landscape of security threats, compromising device functionality and user privacy. Among these threats, log poisoning attacks have recently garnered attention among cybersecurity practitioners for their severity and effectiveness. Log poisoning involves the manipulation of automatically generated logs in IoT devices, significantly compromising the attacked device and making it susceptible to malicious code execution, which may lead to further destructive cyberattacks. This paper is the first to comprehensively address log poisoning attacks on IoT systems and devices. We introduce various methodologies to perform such attacks, focusing particularly on practical implementations involving misconfigured log files on Raspberry Pi 4, which is commonly used in IoT applications. We also introduced a technique that advanced adversaries can employ to cover their tracks effectively. Through Intrusion Modes and Criticality Analysis (IMECA), we analyze the severity and potential impact of these attacks and propose mitigation strategies to avoid the occurrence of such attacks. We emphasize the importance of adopting mitigation strategies to maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and reliability of IoT ecosystems. As a further step to counteract the threat, we design a novel technique to detect and mitigate log poisoning attacks.
Emergence of a Mutual-Growth Mechanism in Networks Evolved by Social Preference Based on Indirect Utility
Authors: Lee Jong-Hyeok , Ogawa Ken-ichiro 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Preferential attachment is an important mechanism in the structural evolution of complex networks. However, though the resources of a network have an effect beyond a direct relationship, growth by preferential attachment based on indirect resources has not been systematically investigated. Here, we propose a mathematical model that reflects the utility of direct and indirect resources to the preference. Our analysis showed that preferential attachment involving indirect utility forms a converged and hierarchical structure, thereby significantly increasing the indirect utility across the entire network. Further, we found that the structures are formed by mutual growth between adjacent nodes, which promotes a scaling exponent of 1.5 between the number of indirect and direct links. Lastly, by examining several real networks, we found evidence of mutual growth, especially in social networks. Overall, our findings demonstrate the role of preference by indirect utility in the structural and functional evolution of large-scale social networks.
Lowering the cost of fault-tolerant Quantum Comparator Circuits
Authors: Donaire Laura M. , Ortega Gloria , Garzón Ester M. , Orts Francisco 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Quantum comparators hold substantial significance in the scientific community as fundamental components in a wide array of algorithms. In this research, we present an innovative approach where we explore the realm of comparator circuits, specifically focussing on three distinct circuit designs present in the literature. These circuits are notable for their use of T-gates, which have gained significant attention in circuit design due to their ability to enable the utilisation of error-correcting codes to ensure fault-tolerance in quantum circuits. However, it is important to note that T-gates come at a considerable computational cost. Our methodology revolves around a comprehensive study of these comparator circuits from a bottom-up perspective. We delve deep into the intricate details of these circuits, dissecting their underlying components and functions. This meticulous examination forms the foundation of our research, enabling us to identify areas where optimisations can be made to improve their performance.
One of the key contributions of our work is the optimisation of the quantum gates used within these circuits. We have expressed the proposed circuits in Clifford+T gates to render them fault-tolerant while concurrently minimising the utilisation of T-gates, thereby mitigating the associated computational costs. By strategically reducing the number of T-gates used and improving their efficiency, we not only mitigate computational overhead, but also ensure the robustness of these circuits in the face of errors and environmental disturbances.
Dependability Models for Computer-Assisted Surveillance Systems Planning: A Strategy Based on Multiple Maintenance Alternatives
Authors: Brito Carlos , Araújo Gabriel , Rego Paulo , Fé Iure , Maciel Paulo , Callou Gustavo , Borges Ivson , Silva Francisco Airton 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
High crime rates plague many nations worldwide, and with it comes the problem of lack of security that these countries face.
The lack of an efficient monitoring system allows people to commit the most varied types of crimes.
Deploying minimally intelligent monitoring systems helps to a great extent to minimize the problem, but they are very costly and well-designed to avoid unnecessary expenses.
A point of great importance in planning an intelligent monitoring system is to measure its availability to ensure a configuration that provides the highest possible uptime.
In this context, this paper proposes models for evaluating the dependability of an intelligent monitoring system.
The proposed models are stochastic Petri nets (SPN) models that allow evaluation of the availability and reliability of the proposed monitoring architecture.
The models investigate the impact of maintenance issues on proposals to increase availability.
When analyzing the maintenance routines, it was possible to perceive the peculiarity of each one, as well as some negative points in one of them.
This study can help speed up planning smart monitoring systems by showing a low-cost method compared to a real test.
The advantages of duct-to-duct biliary reconstruction in pediatric living donor liver transplantation
Authors: Toriigahara Yukihiro , Matsuura Toshiharu , Yanagi Yusuke , Yoshimaru Koichiro , Uchida Yasuyuki , Kajihara Keisuke , Shirai Takeshi , Kawano Yuki , Kawakubo Naonori , Nagata Kouji , Tajiri Tatsuro 
Published: October 2023

Abstract
Background/Purpose:
Whether Roux-en-Y hepatic jejunectomy (HJ) or duct-to-duct biliary reconstruction (DD) is more useful in pediatric living donor liver transplantation has not yet been fully investigated. Therefore, to assess the feasibility and safety of DD, we compared the surgical outcomes of DD to HJ.
Methods:
We divided 45 patients, excluding those with biliary atresia, into the DD group (n=20) and the HJ group (n=25), according to the type of biliary reconstruction they received.
Results:
The 5-year survival rates (DD vs. HJ=79.7% vs. 83.6%, p=0.70) and the incidence of biliary complications, including bile leakage and stricture (DD vs. HJ=1 [5.0%] vs. 1 [4.0%], p=0.87) were not significantly different between the groups. However, intestinal complications, including bowel perforation or ileus, were significantly common in the HJ group (9/25 [36.0%]) than in the DD group (1/20 [5.0%]; p=0.01). The three patients in the HJ group with intestinal perforation all suffered perforation at the anastomosed site in the Roux-en-Y procedure. The subgroup analysis showed the non-inferiority of DD to HJ for biliary or intestinal complications in patients weighting <10 kg.
Conclusion:
With a proper selection of cases, DD should be a safe method for biliary reconstruction in pediatric recipients with little risk of biliary complications equivalent to HJ and a reduced risk of intestinal complications.
Bronze Age communication and trade networks from Mediterranean Ivory records
Authors: Bilotti Giacomo , Kempf Michael , Leon Jose Miguel Morillo 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

The transportation of Bronze Age ivory raw material and artefacts across the Mediterranean has been in the focus of archaeological research for over a century now. However, tracing the flow of ivory has mostly been restricted to traditional theoretical models of raw material distributions deriving from socio-culturally centred considerations. Environmental conditions, potential transportation networks and dissemination routes have not yet been considered decisive for the spread of ivory raw material from the African shores and the Eastern Mediterranean towards the Iberian Peninsula. Implementing computational environmental and archaeological modelling, we present a fully reproducible quantitative approach to estimate potential communication and transportation networks based on environmental covariates. We deploy a Network Analysis model and a predictive model based on Least Cost Path density to propose a potential land- and sea-based movement corridor for the western Mediterranean Basin that could have enabled the cultural spread of ivory during the 3rd and 2nd millennia BC.
Are minimal residual disease measurement after consolidation therapy useful in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia?
Authors: Stutterheim janine , Waarden Rachella van der , de Groot-Kruseman Hester , Sonneveld Edwin , Haas Valerie , Dandis Rana , Schoot C. Ellen van der , Velden Vincent van der , Pieters Rob 
Published: October 2023

Abstract

Minimal residual disease (MRD) is regularly measured at later timepoints after end of first consolidation (EOC) in children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). The question remains whether this is useful for detecting (molecular) relapse. We investigated the clinical relevance of MRD after EOC in intermediate risk patients treated on DCOG-ALL-10 (n = 271) and DCOG-ALL-9 (n = 122), with MRD < 0.05% at EOC. EOC MRD negative patients (n = 178) had excellent outcomes, irrespective of MRD results at later timepoints; 6-years relapse free survival (6y-RFS) of 92.0% (95% CI:88–97) for those with MRD negativity at all later timepoints compared to 96.2% (95% CI:89–100) for those with one or more later timepoints being positive (p = 0.46). Patients with positive EOC MRD (n = 91) of whom the subsequent timepoints were MRD negative (n = 43), had comparable good outcomes, 6y-RFS of 93.0% (95% CI:85–100). Patients being MRD positive at EOC and MRD positivity at one or more subsequent timepoints (n = 48) had a higher risk of relapse, 6y-RFS 70.5% (95% CI:58–84), p = 0.002. These findings were confirmed in the validation cohort of ALL-9. In patients who are MRD negative at EOC, MRD measurements at later timepoints can be abandoned. For patients who are EOC MRD positive the subsequent MRD measurement might be informative for further risk stratification.