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Visible Light-Induced Cyanomethyl Radical Triggered Cascade Cyclization of Phenyl-Lin...
Xiao Hu
Bo-Xin Chen

Xiao Hu

and 7 more

August 24, 2024
Photo-promoted cyanomethyl radical procedures for the efficient and simple preparation of 2,3-dihydro-1H-indenes and 2,8-dihydrocyclopenta[a]indenes from phenyl-linked 1,6-enynes with α-halogenated acetonitriles are reported. The iodocyanomethyla-tion/cyclization is performed via an atom-transfer radical addition (ATRA) strategy under photocatalyst- and oxidant-free conditions. In particular, the photoinduced cyanomethylative cascade bicyclization is carried out under the fac-Ir(ppy)3/Na2CO3 catalystic symtem and visible light irradiation. These methods offer a one-step and atom-economical access to diverse cyano-group containing five-membered rings with broad substrate scope and high selectivity. A plausible reaction mechanism is also proposed.
Reduction Synthesis of Alcohols from Carboxylic Acids and Esters Catalyzed by a Coppe...
Hui Zhou
Nana Wei

Hui Zhou

and 5 more

August 24, 2024
The present work prepared a copper N-heterocyclic carbene complex that could be used in catalyzing the homogeneous hydrogenation of carboxylic acid with ammonia borane (hydrogen source) to synthesize primary alcohols. Various aromatic and aliphatic carboxylic acids with diverse functional groups were transformed to respective alcohols in moderate to high yields. The process can be easily scaled up (TON up to 14545) and exhibit a high compatibility with different sensitive functional groups, including fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine, hydroxyl, cyano and nitro groups. IMesCuCl/NH3·BH3 combination can selectively reduce aromatic and aliphatic esters. Mechanistic studies indicate that Cu-H species produced in situ are the active intermediates.
Identifying the Morphometric Parameters Impacting the Peak Flows, case study of Taza...
Badr Layan
Mahmoud Zemzami

Badr Layan

and 3 more

August 24, 2024
The study examined the morphometric aspects that influence peak flows and flood occurrence over the Larbaâ Wadi and its tributaries in Taza city. It emphasized the importance of understanding the physical parameters of the watershed to address flood problems. The study identified the factors determining flood discharges in urban areas. It reflected the natural features, speeding the water collection and leading to its accumulation downstream. The findings revealed that Larbaâ and Bouljraf basin shapes allowed for high flow rates, while Jaouna, Dfali, Rhouireg, and Taza decreased them. The concept of concentration time also demonstrated its role in flood evolution. It was the same time for the two principal Wadis, causing the flow to rise at the confluence point. The drainage and hydrographic densities highlighted the importance of flushing processes on impermeable marl lands. These findings could assist the city in identifying the factors contributing to rising floodwater volumes. They can guide the people in charge of dealing with hydrological threats. Similarly, the quality and accuracy of the results suggest that the method is a robust means of characterizing specific parameters that enhance the impact of flood risk.
Quantitative electroencephalogram differentiation between treatment-resistant and res...
Ciftci E

Ciftci E

August 24, 2024
Objective To reliably assess biomarkers for treatment response and evaluate quantitative electroencephalography (qEEG) changes in treatment resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) after deep transcranial magnetic stimulation (dTMS). Method Treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder sixty patients (35 F, 25 M) after dTMS were separated into two groups based on Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS) score decrease by 35% or more (Treatment-responsive (TRP)) and less than 35% (Treatment-resistant (TRS)). Quantitative electroencephalography (QEEG) recordings were compared between the TRP and TRS groups using the Mann-Whitney U test, and the pre- and post-treatment periods were analyzed using the Wilcoxon Signed Rank Test. Binary logistic regression analysis was done for the prediction of treatment response. QEEG changes. Results TRS (9 F, 11 M; age (year) = 37.1 +- 14.7) and TRP (26 F, 14 M; age (year) = 31.2 +- 11.7) groups were similar in terms of medication, sex, age, duration of illness, baseline YBOCS and all four baseline qEEG power bands and alpha asymmetries. Patients with OCD who show higher delta F3 and lower age were more likely to respond to dTMS and pharmacological treatment. Following neurostimulation and pharmacological intervention, parietal and temporal theta, and parietal delta power bands were significantly higher in the TRP group than TRS group. Central and temporal theta, temporal alpha and beta power bands were significantly increased after treatment when paired with pre-treatment. Conclusion Higher dorsolateral lateral delta power and lower age were more likely to respond to dTMS. Slow oscillations bands change was prominent for the dTMS responsiveness in treatment resistant OCD.
Manuscript Title: Letter to the editor: “Quality-of-life evaluations in children and...
Marhama Alamgeer
Muhammad Abdullah Naveed

Marhama Alamgeer

and 2 more

August 24, 2024
A document by Marhama Alamgeer. Click on the document to view its contents.
Atypical Atrial Flutter Ablation: The Clinical Impact of High-Density Mapping
Bahjat Ghazzal
Marwan Refaat

Bahjat Ghazzal

and 1 more

August 24, 2024
Atypical Atrial Flutter Ablation: The Clinical Impact of High-Density MappingBahjat Z. Ghazzal MD1, Marwan M. Refaat, MD21 Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School , Worcester, Massachusetts, USA2 Division of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, LebanonRunning Title: Atypical Atrial Flutter Ablation: The Clinical Impact of High-Density MappingWords: 700 (excluding the title page and references)Keywords: cardiac arrhythmias, heart diseases, cardiovascular diseases, catheter ablation, atrial flutter, high density mappingFunding: NoneDisclosures: NoneCorresponding Author:Marwan M. Refaat, MD, FACC, FAHA, FHRS, FASE, FESC, FACP, FRCPTenured Professor of MedicineTenured Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular GeneticsMember, Division of Cardiology/ Section of Cardiac ElectrophysiologyDirector, Cardiovascular Fellowship Program American University of Beirut Faculty of Medicine and Medical CenterPO Box 11-0236, Riad El-Solh 1107 2020- Beirut, LebanonUS Address: 3 Dag Hammarskjold Plaza, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10017, USAOffice: +961-1-350000/+961-1-374374 Extension 5353 or Extension 5366 (Direct)Atypical atrial flutter (AAFL) is an arrhythmia that is distinct from typical atrial flutter (AFL) due to its non-isthmus-dependent reentrant circuit, and often arises in patients with a history of cardiac surgery or ablation, where the resulting iatrogenic scar provides the basis for re-entry circuits.1 Catheter ablation for AAFL is an effective treatment option, associated with lower rates of thromboembolic events, transfusions, and shorter hospital stays compared to typical AFL.2 However, the complexity of AAFL circuits requires precise mapping, and traditional techniques often lack the resolution to accurately delineate these pathways. High-density (HD) mapping technology has emerged as a significant advancement in this regard, offering detailed electroanatomic maps that enhance procedural success.3 In this issue of the Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology, the study by Sink et al. investigates the impact of HD mapping on AAFL ablation outcomes and healthcare utilization, providing valuable insights into its clinical benefits.4In this retrospective analysis, Sink et al. examined 108 patients who underwent AAFL ablation at a single academic center from 2005 to 2022. The cohort was divided into two groups: those who received HD mapping with a 16-electrode HD Grid catheter and Precision mapping system, and those who underwent non-HD mapping using traditional spiral catheters and the Velocity system. Primary outcomes included procedural success, defined as non-inducibility of the arrhythmia after ablation, and AFL recurrence. Secondary outcomes included emergency department (ED) visits, hospitalizations, and overall healthcare utilization within one-year post-procedure. The study revealed that HD mapping significantly improved both the delineation of AAFL circuits (92.5% vs. 76%; p=0.014) and procedural success rates (91% vs. 71%; p=0.006). Additionally, patients in the HD mapping group experienced significantly fewer ED visits (aIRR 0.32; p=0.007) and hospitalizations (aIRR 0.32; p=0.004) for AF/AFL/HF within the first year. While there was a trend towards lower AFL recurrence in the HD mapping group (aHR 0.60; p=0.13), this difference did not reach statistical significance. This study highlights the significant advantages of HD mapping in AAFL ablation. The enhanced resolution provided by HD mapping allows for more precise identification and targeting of arrhythmogenic substrates, leading to improved clinical outcomes.Though this study was well-conducted, minor limitations must be noted. The study’s retrospective design and single-center setting introduce potential biases and limit the generalizability of the results. The non-randomized nature of the study also raises the possibility of selection bias. Furthermore, the higher use of contact force-sensing catheters in the HD mapping group may have contributed to the observed differences in outcomes. A larger sample size would have likely allowed the study to achieve statistical significance when comparing recurrent AAFL rates between groups. Despite these limitations however, this study provides strong support for the clinical utility of HD mapping in AAFL ablation. Future multi-center, randomized trials should validate these findings and examine factors not studied here, such as procedure fluoroscopy time and complication rates between groups. Long-term benefits should also be further investigated, as some prior studies for example have shown no significant decrease in anti-arrhythmic drug use at 1-year follow-up5 and significantly decreased rates of sinus rhythm maintenance for repeat ablations compared with single ablations6. Research on HD mapping in patients with specific comorbidities could also provide insights into its broader applicability. For instance, one study showed a greater chance of acute procedural failure in patients with a history of surgical correction for congenital heart disease.7 Though HD-mapping-guided ablation demonstrates higher acute procedural success, several studies have shown long-term recurrence rates remain significant.8, 9 Hence, further research is needed to identify strategies to reduce these rates. In this context, the development of new mapping tools, such as the Octaray TM system (Biosense Webster Inc., Irvine, CA, USA)10 and the Ensite TM Omnipolar Technology (OT) (Abbott, Chicago, IL, USA)11, may offer improved outcomes. Further research is also needed to assess the clinical outcomes, healthcare utilization and biomarker response for ablation of AAFL with HD mapping in the setting of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.12 To the best of our knowledge, this is the first such study to demonstrate that ablation with HD mapping for AAFL results in reduced re-hospitalization and ED visits. Future research should attempt to expand on these findings to evaluate potential cost-benefit and impact on patient quality of life.References:1. Cherian Tharian S, Supple G, Smietana J, Santangeli P, Nazarian S, Lin D, Hyman Matthew C, Walsh K, Marchlinski F and Arkles J. Idiopathic Atypical Atrial Flutter Is Associated With a Distinct Atriopathy.JACC: Clinical Electrophysiology . 2021;7:1193-1195.2. Ko Ko NL, Sriramoju A, Khetarpal BK and Srivathsan K. Atypical atrial flutter: review of mechanisms, advances in mapping and ablation outcomes.Curr Opin Cardiol . 2022;37:36-45.3. Raymond-Paquin A, Pillai A, Myadam R, Mankad P, Lovejoy S, Koneru JN and Ellenbogen KA. Atypical atrial flutter catheter ablation in the era of high-density mapping.J Interv Card Electrophysiol . 2023;66:1807-1815.4. Sink JC, Kasen; Uppalapati, Lakshmi; Lancki, Nicola; Peigh, Graham; Lohrmann, Graham; Elsayed, Mahmoud; Carneiro, Herman; Baman, Jayson; Pfenniger, Anna; Patil, Kaustubha D.; Verma, Nishant; Arora, Rishi; Kim, Susan S.; Chicos, Alexandru B.; Lin, Albert C.; Knight, Bradley P.; Passman, Rod S. Association Between High-Density Mapping of Atypical Atrial Flutter, Clinical Outcomes and Healthcare Utilization. Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology . 2024.5. Balt JC, Klaver MN, Mahmoodi BK, van Dijk VF, Wijffels MCEF and Boersma LVA. High-density versus low-density mapping in ablation of atypical atrial flutter.Journal of Interventional Cardiac Electrophysiology . 2021;62:587-599.6. Marazzato J, Cappabianca G, Angeli F, Crippa M, Golino M, Ferrarese S, Beghi C and De Ponti R. Catheter ablation of atrial tachycardias after mitral valve surgery: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology . 2020;31:2632-2641.7. Delacretaz E, Ganz Leonard I, Soejima K, Friedman Peter L, Walsh Edward P, Triedman John K, Sloss Laurence J, Landzberg Michael J and Stevenson William G. Multiple atrial macro–re-entry circuits in adults with repaired congenital heart disease: entrainment mapping combined with three-dimensional electroanatomic mapping.Journal of the American College of Cardiology . 2001;37:1665-1676.8. Lozano-Granero C, Moreno J, Sanchez-Perez I, Matia-Frances R, Hernandez-Madrid A, Zamorano JL and Franco E. Results of atypical flutter ablation in the era of high density electroanatomical mapping (the RAFAELA study). European Heart Journal . 2023;44.9. Anter E, McElderry TH, Contreras-Valdes FM, Li J, Tung P, Leshem E, Haffajee CI, Nakagawa H and Josephson ME. Evaluation of a novel high-resolution mapping technology for ablation of recurrent scar-related atrial tachycardias. Heart Rhythm . 2016;13:2048-2055.10. Sroubek J, Rottmann M, Barkagan M, Leshem E, Shapira‐Daniels A, Brem E, Fuentes‐Ortega C, Malinaric J, Basu S and Bar‐Tal M. A novel octaray multielectrode catheter for high‐resolution atrial mapping: electrogram characterization and utility for mapping ablation gaps. Journal of Cardiovascular Electrophysiology . 2019;30:749-757.11. Rillo M, Palamà Z, Punzi R, Vitanza S, Aloisio A, Polini S, Tucci A, Pollastrelli A, Zonno F, Anastasia A, Giannattasio CF and My L. A new interpretation of nonpulmonary vein substrates of the left atrium in patients with atrial fibrillation. Journal of Arrhythmia . 2021;37:338-347.12. Pascual-Figal D, Wachter R, Senni M, Bao W, Noè A, Schwende H, Butylin D, Prescott MF; TRANSITION Investigators. NT-proBNP Response to Sacubitril/Valsartan in Hospitalized Heart Failure Patients With Reduced Ejection Fraction: TRANSITION Study. JACC Heart Fail Oct 2020;8(10):822-833.
Independent evaluation of the FREED model: Early intervention is effective in adults...
Georgia Templeton
Fiona Pender

Georgia Templeton

and 4 more

August 24, 2024
Aim A longer Duration of Untreated Eating Disorder illness is associated with poorer clinical outcomes. First Episode Rapid Early Intervention for Eating Disorders (FREED) is a treatment pathway for emerging adults (16-25) with a duration of untreated illness ≤ 3 years, showing promising results. Our study aimed to replicate findings by assessing differences between FREED and Treatment-As-Usual from assessment to discharge. Method A retrospective cohort study was conducted using routinely collected data comparing eating disorder symptoms in patients attending FREED (n=33) and Treatment-As-Usual (n=71) between January 2022 and April 2024. Results Both FREED and Treatment-As-Usual significantly reduced eating disorder symptoms. FREED did not show greater efficacy but had patients with lower symptomatology at assessment and closer to clinical recovery at discharge. Discussion & Conclusion Findings suggest FREED is effective, highlighting the importance of early intervention in eating disorders. However, access is limited, and inclusion criteria should reflect adult treatment demand.
Exploring the Implementation of Cognitive Screening in First-Episode Psychosis Settin...
Isabel  Zbukvic
Evangeline Fisher

Isabel Zbukvic

and 34 more

August 24, 2024
Accurate and appropriate cognitive screening has the potential to significantly enhance early psychosis care, yet no screening tools have been validated for the early psychosis population and little is known about current screening practices, experiences, or factors that may influence implementation. Using a hybrid type 1 design, the CogScreen study aims to validate two promising screening tools with young people with first episode psychosis (primary aim) and to understand the context for the implementation of cognitive screening in early psychosis settings (secondary aim). The present protocol outlines the implementation study, which aims to explore the experiences and practices, acceptability, feasibility, and determinants of cognitive screening in early psychosis settings from the perspective of key stakeholders. Young people with first episode psychosis (n=350), caregivers (minimum n=10), and service providers (minimum n=12) will be recruited from primary and specialist early psychosis services in Melbourne, Adelaide, and Sydney, Australia. Grounded in implementation science, two theoretical frameworks inform data collection and analysis: the Theoretical Framework of Acceptability and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. A mixed methods design will be employed to collect and analyse data from questionnaires with young people with first episode psychosis, interviews with all stakeholder groups, and administrative processes. Quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data will be analysed through content analysis using deductive and inductive coding. Together with accuracy findings, results from the present implementation study will provide new insights about the practices, experiences, enablers and barriers to cognitive screening in early psychosis services.
Comment on: Implementation of a formalized evaluation and planning tool to improve pe...
Anoud Khan
Aryan Tareen

Anoud Khan

and 1 more

August 24, 2024
Article type: Letter – To the editorTitle: Comment on: Implementation of a formalized evaluation and planning tool to improve pediatric oncology outcomes in KenyaSubtitle: Bridging Gaps: AI-Driven Healthcare Equity for Low and Middle-Income CountriesAnoud Khana, Aryan Tareena
Analyzing Laminar and Turbulent Flow Performance in Finned Heat Transfer Systems
Pallavi Sindhu
Deepak Kumar Pathak

Pallavi Sindhu

and 2 more

August 24, 2024
The “ Analyzing Laminar and Turbulent Flow Performance in Finned Heat Transfer Systems” is a study or research project that focuses on assessing the effectiveness and efficiency of heat transfer systems equipped with finned surfaces. Optimizing thermal management in passive cooling pin fin devices is the focus of this research. The Reynolds number is a key parameter in its study of heat transfer efficiency and flow dynamics, distinguishing laminar and turbulent flows. The Shear Stress Transport (SST) k-omega model is used to simulate laminar and turbulent flows in finer heat transfer systems. Comparing the two flow regimes, it measures velocity, temperature, pressure, Reynolds number, and skin friction coefficient. The author wants to find the best fin design for heat transmission. Both flow types visually display streamlined patterns. The cooled heat transfer system is laminar, and turbulent flow is covered in ”Results and Discussion”. In laminar flow, velocities ranged from 0 to 0.129 m/s, static temperature varied from 305 to 320 K, static pressure ranged from -0.02 to 0.064 Pa, Reynolds number ranged from 128 to 243, and skin friction coefficient varied from 0.0048 to 0.01. In turbulent flow, velocities ranged from 0 to 0.235 m/s, static temperature varied from 300 to 320 K, static pressure ranged from -0.02 to 0.064 Pa, Reynolds number ranged from 2658 to 3736, and skin friction coefficient varied from 0.00487 to 0.012. Streamline patterns were also illustrated for both flows.
The Interplay Between Hypothalamic and Brainstem Nuclei in Homeostatic Control of Ene...
Matevz Arcon

Matevz Arcon

August 24, 2024
Energy balance and body weight are tightly regulated by homeostatic and non-homeostatic (hedonic) systems of the brain. These systems are finely tuned by hypothalamic and extrahypothalamic neurocircuitry that modulate feeding the appetite signalling cascade in response to energy of active and passive component of total daily energy expenditure (TDEE). The hypothalamic arcuate nucleus (ARC) was extensively studied and thus described as a dominant brain region involved with orchestration of all homeostatic processes, especially energy balance. However, emerging evidence indicates that the extrahypothalamic signalling has a critical role in regulation of a healthy body weight across the lifespan. Emerging evidence showed that, the brainstem nuclei of the dorsal vagal complex (DVC), including the area postrema (AP) and nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), were shown to integrate humoral and vagal signals to modulate feeding behaviour via catecholaminergic, glutamatergic, and GABAergic activity. In essence, the DVC is deemed as a port of entry where initial appetite-related signals are first conveyed via the vagal afferents before projecting to less perfused and innervated brain regions of the forebrain. Understanding the intricate interactions and projections between hypothalamic and brainstem nuclei is essential for comprehending energy balance regulation and addressing metabolic conditions such as diabetes and obesity. Further research in this area may lead to the development of targeted interventions for managing of these metabolic disorders and promoting a healthier body weight across the life span.
Unveiling Thymoma Typing through Hyperspectral Imaging and Deep Learning
Qize Lv
Ke Liang

Qize Lv

and 7 more

August 24, 2024
:Thymoma, a rare tumor from thymic epithelial cells, presents diagnostic challenges due to the subjective nature of traditional methods, leading to high false-negative rates and long diagnosis times. This study introduces a thymoma classification technique that integrates hyperspectral imaging with deep learning. We initially capture pathological slice images of thymoma using a hyperspectral camera and delineate regions of interest to extract spectral data. This data undergoes reflectance calibration and noise reduction. Subsequently, we transform the spectral data into two-dimensional images via the Gramian Angular Field (GAF) method. A variant residual network is then utilized to extract features and classify these images. Our results demonstrate that this model significantly enhances classification accuracy and efficiency, achieving an average accuracy of 95%. The method proves highly effective in automated thymoma diagnosis, optimizing data utilization and feature representation learning.
Characterisation of the Mitochondrial Genome of Capulus danieli: Insights into Evolut...
Yaoyu Xie
Yida Han

Yaoyu Xie

and 5 more

August 24, 2024
Capulus danieli, a distinct member of Capulidae, exhibits a unique ecological behaviour by attaching and drilling onto the pecten, distinguishing itself from other gastropods. Herein, we present the first characterisation of the mitochondrial genome of Capulus danieli. The results showed that the genome spans 15600 base pairs, with an A + T content of 71.12% and a G + C content of 28.88%. Within this genetic makeup, we identified 13 protein-coding genes, 22 transfer RNA genes, and 2 ribosomal RNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis revealed a close evolutionary relationship between Capulus danieli and members of the Ficoidea superfamily. The divergence time estimation suggested that Capulus danieli diverged approximately 52.29 million years ago. These findings significantly contribute to our understanding of the evolutionary history and genetic architecture of Capulus danieli, shedding light on its unique ecological adaptations to the marine environment.
The Effect of Cancer Cell-Derived Exosomal Proteins on Macrophage Polarization: An In...
Khandu Wadhonkar
Soumalya Das

Khandu Wadhonkar

and 5 more

August 24, 2024
Background: Cancer is characterized by unregulated cell proliferation, enabling it to invade and spread to different organs and tissues in the body. Cancer progression is intricately influenced by the complex dynamics within the tumor microenvironment (TME). The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a composite and dynamic network comprising cancer cells and various immune cells, including tumor-associated macrophages. Exosomes facilitate the cross-talk between different cancer cells and other cells. This review particularly focuses on exosomal proteins derived from different cancer cells in mounting the complex communication between cancer cells and macrophages within the tumor microenvironment. Most cancer-derived exosomal proteins polarize macrophages towards M2 phenotype, promoting cancer aggressiveness, while a few have role switching towards the M1 phenotype, inhibiting cancer proliferation, respectively. In this review, we summarize, for the first time, the dual impact of cancer cell-derived exosomal proteins on macrophage polarization and the associated signaling pathways, offering valuable insights for developing innovative therapeutic strategies against diverse cancer types. Conclusion: The exosomal proteins derived from different cancer cells can polarize macrophages into either classically activated M1 phenotype or alternatively activated M2 phenotype. This review provides insights and describes the role of different cancer cell-derived exosomal proteins and the associated signaling pathways that lead to macrophage polarization and further promote or inhibit cancer progression.
Looking beyond Popper: How philosophy can be relevant to ecology
Tina Heger
Alkistis Elliot-Graves

Tina Heger

and 15 more

August 24, 2024
Current workflows in academic ecology rarely allow an engagement of ecologists with philosophers, or with contemporary philosophical work. We argue that this is a missed opportunity for enriching ecological reasoning and practice, because many questions in ecology overlap with philosophical questions and with current topics in contemporary philosophy of science. One obstacle to a closer connection and collaboration between the fields is the limited awareness of scientists, including ecologists, of current philosophical questions, developments and ideas. In this article, we aim to overcome this obstacle and trigger more collaborations between ecologists and philosophers. First, we provide an overview of philosophical research relevant to ecologists. Second, we use examples to demonstrate that many ecological questions have a philosophical dimension and point to related philosophical work. We elaborate on one example -- the debate around the appropriate level of complexity of ecological models -- to show in more detail how philosophy can enrich ecology. Finally, we provide suggestions for how to initiate collaborative projects involving both ecologists and philosophers.
In their shoes: transgender students’ lived experiences of challenges and discriminat...
Jefferson Cuadra

Jefferson Cuadra

August 24, 2024
In 2022, an estimated 205,000 transgender individuals aged 15–49 were reported in the Philippines, yet their experiences in higher education remain understudied. Despite legislative efforts, discrimination against LGBTQIA+ Filipinos persists, impacting mental health, education, and economic outcomes. This study employs descriptive and phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of transgender students in educational settings using Collaizzi’s method for qualitative data analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with (N=7) transgender students (ages 18-26) from Cabadbaran City between January and May 2024. Analysis identified three main themes: challenges related to identity and social expression, experiences of systemic discrimination and exclusion, and strategies of social resilience and adaptation. The findings emphasize the necessity of inclusive policies and support systems in higher education to enhance transgender students’ sense of belonging and improve campus climate. This research accent opportunities for stakeholders—including administrators, educators, policymakers, and school psychologists—to raise awareness, implement inclusive practices, and support the well-being and academic success of transgender students through targeted interventions and policy reforms.
Customers' target-specific prejudice towards ethnic restaurants amidst the COVID-19 p...
Carl-Johan Lagerkvist
Assem Abu Hatab

Carl-Johan Lagerkvist

and 1 more

August 24, 2024
Two field experiments examined how ethnic group cues and anxiety about the virus infection predict customer prejudice and associated behavioral responses for customers of four main categories of ethnic restaurants in Egypt during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. In Study 1 (n=576) ethnic prejudice was differentiated by restaurant categories. A sub-group analysis revealed that factual misjudgments played a notable role in influencing ethnic prejudice, particularly in conjunction with lower affect levels and heightened perceived health risks. Our findings indicate a lack of specific evidence regarding ethnic prejudice towards Chinese restaurants, but rather a tendency to unfavorably judge Asian (non-Chinese) restaurants. Study 2 (n=288), examined the influence of negative risk communication on the formation of ethnic prejudice towards Chinese restaurants. The results only provide weak support for the hypothesis that information stressing the connection between China and the coronavirus increased ethnic prejudice towards Chinese restaurants. Indirect effects attributed to increased perceived risks and heightened affective responses among customers with lower levels of prejudice contributed to this finding. Higher levels of actionable knowledge distance did not offset these prejudicial effects. Our results suggest that strategies that aim to reduce stigma among the general public during public health crises should be reconsidered
Tanshinone IIA + Osthole alleviates ferroptosis in LPS-induced acute lung injury by K...
Fa-Guang Jin
Yujuan Li

Fa-Guang Jin

and 11 more

August 24, 2024
Background: Acute lung injury (ALI) is associated with a high mortality rate and requires effective treatment. Tanshinone IIA (T) and Osthole (O) exhibit anti-inflammatory effects and have been used to protect against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced lung injury in mice. However, the combined effects of T and O on lung injury protection and their potential protective mechanisms have not been studied. Objective: To assess the protective effects of TO on LPS-induced ALI in mice and BEAS-2B cell injury and to investigate the potential mechanisms. Methods: An animal model of LPS-induced ALI and a BEAS-2B cell injury model were established. The assessment encompassed the viability of BEAS-2B cells, cell count, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, protein content, as well as IL-6 and TNF-a levels in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF). Additionally, malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and glutathione (GSH) levels in mouse lung tissue were measured. The effects of TO were assessed using immunofluorescence (IF), immunohistochemistry (IHC), Western Blot (WB), RT-PCR, and ELISA. Statistical analysis involved one-way ANOVA and t-test. Results: TO administration led to a significant reduction in lung edema (W/D), MDA, ROS, GSH, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels compared to the individual T or O groups, alleviating LPS-induced ALI. TO also significantly attenuated lung tissue damage, reduced inflammatory response, decreased Fe2+ and 4-HNE levels, and increased GPX4, SLC7A11, and Nrf2 gene expression in mice. Ultimately, TO alleviated ferroptosis in LPS-induced ALI by activating Nrf2 expression, and no markedly adverse reactions were observed. Conclusion: TO alleviates LPS-induced ALI and effectively treats against LPS-induced ALI.
A Systematic Review of Enhancing CNN Performance in Automated Fabric Defect Detection...
Saima Saleem

Saima Saleem

and 1 more

August 24, 2024
In the textile industry, manual fabric inspection is challenging and can lead to errors that affect product cost and quality. Deep learning has introduced effective machine learning algorithms for image classification and analysis, but issues like complex training, large data requirements, and poor generalization remain. There is a need for a fast, accurate automatic algorithm for real-time industrial use. This research developed a simple Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) to address these challenges effectively. The algorithm’s performance was evaluated using two image sizes: 150 x 700 and 245 x 345. It was evident that image size significantly affects the model’s performance. The dataset’s imbalance negatively impacted the model due to insufficient training and overfitting. To improve this, various sampling techniques were tested. The CNN model performed best with smaller images (245 x 345) and the SMOTEENN sampling technique. The model achieved impressive accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 scores of 98.00%, with modeling and prediction times of 1.57 seconds and 0.09 seconds, respectively. A method to deploy the algorithm for automating textile quality inspection was also proposed.
A Path Planning Algorithm for UAV 3D Surface Inspection Based on Normal Vector Filter...
Yunlong Wang
Shaoke Wan

Yunlong Wang

and 3 more

August 24, 2024
The use of UAV for 3D surface inspection has become an important tool in the field of large-scale structure maintenance. However, the commonly used UAV inspection path planning algorithms for 3D surface suffer from problems such as path quality dependent model accuracy, path inspection efficiency, and low inspection quality. To address these issues, this paper proposes a UAV 3D surface inspection path planning algorithm based on normal vector filtering and integrated viewpoint Evaluation. Generate a safe and effective set of viewpoints through uniform sampling and normal vector viewpoint filtering, and then use a integrated viewpoint evaluation method combined with Monte Carlo tree search to select viewpoints, thereby generating a safe, efficient, and complete UAV surface inspection path. The results of simulation and physical experiments show that the proposed method can effectively solve the path planning problem when using UAV for surface inspection of large three-dimensional structures. Meanwhile, while ensuring the quality of inspection, this method can reduce path redundancy and improve the surface inspection efficiency of UAV.
Recognition of serum key molecules from postherpetic neuralgia patients by mass spect...
Qun Li
Ying Zhang

Qun Li

and 8 more

August 24, 2024
Postherpetic neuralgia (PHN) is the most prevalent form of chronic pain resulting from herpes zoster. Despite its prevalence, the molecular etiology of PHN remains poorly understood, and effective treatments are limited. In this study, we aimed to identify key serum molecules that exhibit significant differences between PHN patients and healthy controls. Using mass spectrometry-based proteomics, we identified 24 upregulated and 8 downregulated differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in PHN patients compared to healthy controls. These dysregulated proteins are implicated in various biological processes, molecular functions, cellular components, and signaling pathways. Notably, the Rap1 signaling pathway and focal adhesion pathway were among the top pathways identified by the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis. Key molecules including TLN1, CALM2, PFN1, and FLNA were found to be enriched in these pathways. Validation using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in a larger cohort confirmed the differential expression of CALM2, FLNA, and PFN1. Our findings suggest that CALM2, FLNA, and PFN1, along with their associated pathways, represent potential therapeutic targets for PHN.
First report of the huge and complex burrow system of the thalassinidean mud shrimp L...
Jaehwan Seo
Bon Joo Koo

Jaehwan Seo

and 1 more

August 24, 2024
We introduce the unique burrow systems of Laomedia sp. nov., which were previously unreported, and compare burrows between the Saemangeum and Gomso tidal flats, which have differing environmental characteristics. The burrows of Laomedia sp. nov. are constructed and maintained by a pair of male and female shrimp. The upper part of the burrow consists of a horizontal gallery and a vertical shaft connected to the surface. Several horizontal galleries merge into two branched galleries, which then merge into the main gallery, comprising the middle part of the burrow. The main gallery is skewed obliquely, spiraling with regular directional changes and extending downward, maintaining a consistent twist direction. Bulging chambers (maximum volume, 590 cm3) are located where the main gallery twists into a spiral. The distinctive structures of Laomedia sp. nov. burrows are characterized by (1) the merging of two branched galleries into a main gallery, (2) the spiral structures, and (3) large-volume chambers. These unique structures, which are not found in other thalassinideans, could be mostly attributed to the ecological characteristics of this species, in which a pair of male and female shrimp cohabit within a single burrow. The maximum depth, surface area, and volume of burrows differed between tidal flats, at 145 cm, 16,180 cm², and 18,163 cm³ at the Saemangeum flats and 198 cm, 12,267 cm², and 10,325 cm³ at the Gomso flats, respectively. This dimensional variation between the two tidal flats is caused by differential tidal conditions and sediment characteristics. Laomedia sp. nov. burrows increase the sediment–water interface area by up to 1,511%, which is the highest value observed among marine invertebrate burrows. This study is the first report to identify the unique burrow systems of Laomedia sp. nov.
Views and experiences of health visitors on an early literacy promotion intervention...
Maria Bouri
Evanthia Sakellari

Maria Bouri

and 1 more

August 24, 2024
The advantages of early literacy activities in promoting infant and child development have been well documented in the literature as well as the effectiveness of relevant interventions implemented by health professionals. Yet, data on the perceptions and attitudes of primary health care providers about the implementation process of such interventions remain scarce. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the experiences and views of health visitors (n=13) in applying an early literacy promotion intervention during their practice in primary health settings. Data were collected through questionnaires with open ended questions. Findings showed that parents were welcoming of the advice and willing to introduce literacy oriented activities with their children in their daily family routine. Parents’ and children’s receptiveness as well as health visitors’ own belief in the significance of the intervention were considered factors largely facilitating its implementation and success, despite time constrains and system level shortcomings. Continuing education was recommended both to provide constant support to health visitors, and also sensitize other members of the primary care team for program sustainability and expansion. The results of this study highlighted the importance of recording health professionals’ views, concerns and experiences on applying early literacy promotion so as to receive feedback on ameliorating relevant programs and maximizing their valuable impacts on infant and child development.
Modelling and Analysis of Water Exchange between the Oxbow Lake and Main River Channe...
Xiaoguang Liu
Yao Shiming

Xiaoguang Liu

and 3 more

August 24, 2024
The oxbow lake located in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River (YR) serves as a primary relocation and protection area for nationally protected species such as the Yangtze finless porpoise, and is also an important natural gene pool for biodiversity conservation in the middle reaches of the Yangtze River (MYR). The operation of the Three Gorges Dam (TGD) has altered the frequency and intensity of water exchange between the oxbow lake and the YR, affecting the stability of its morphology and the maintenance of its ecological functions. Statistical modeling reveals that the duration of continuous rise in water level in the MYR follows a Gaussian distribution function. Following the full impoundment operation of the TGD, there is a significant increase in the frequency of short-duration rises in water level, a decrease in the frequency of medium-duration rises, and a decline in the frequency of long-duration rises. Moreover, the rate of water level change in the MYR follows a power function, with a decreasing trend before and during the initial operation of the TGD, and an overall increasing trend after full impoundment, significantly lower than the pre-operation average. By employing threshold regression models and Langmuir equations, a formula for calculating water exchange intensity has been established. The average annual water exchange intensity shows a significant overall decrease from the period after the operation of the TGD to the full impoundment operation phase. However, following full impoundment, there is a significant upward trend in water exchange intensity, reaching levels comparable to the pre-operation period. During the emptying and pre-release period of the TGD, water exchange intensity increases by 5.5 times, while during the seedling flood of the four major Chinese carps in the MYR, water exchange intensity decreases by 70%. Conversely, during the reservoir storage and utilization phase, water exchange intensity remains relatively stable.
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