bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CROWDFUNDING AS AN ALTERNATIVE FUNDING FOR GREEN TOURISM
Authors: Lanisy Nihan Anindyaputra
Published: May 2023

This paper is a conceptual paper that discuss the condition and the needs for tourism crowdfunding platform  for green tourism. Crowdfunding is an alternative way to fund new or existing tourism project. Crowdfunding mainly dominated as a platform for conventional business and social donation. Crowdfunding platform that spesifically designed for tourism is lacking. On the other side, crowdfunding in tourism can boost green tourism because of the support from the funder that aware on the conservation of the environment. The method used in this study is site analysis and the finding is analized descriptive analytic. The result shows that there is no crowdfunding platform in  that spesifically designed for tourism. There is opportunity to make a crowdfunding platform that specifically designed for green tourism project to make creator and donor need’s meet in the platform. This research offers a new way to seek funding for green tourism to boost sustainibility on tourism using crowdfunding.
ROLE OF SOCIOCULTURAL FACTORS IN TNI AD NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICERS’ MOTIVATIONS, GOALS AND PRO-ORGANIZATIONAL BEHAVIOR
Authors: Ferdian Fikri , Hadna Agus Heruanto , Pitoyo Agus Joko , Susilastuti Dewi Haryani
Published: May 2023

The present research aims to investigate the role of sociocultural factors in describing and predicting the Indonesian Army NCOs’ (Bintara TNI-AD)’ motivations and goals in their relation to pro-organizational behaviour. A survey along with a purposive sampling were conducted to collect the data. It was aided by a questionnaire as well as Likert Scale to rate the responses. As many as 676 Bintara TNI AD from Papua, Maluku, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi participated in the research. The data was subsequently analyzed using a Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) approach generated by IBM SPSS AMOS software. This analysis resulted in the finding that the sociocultural factors in question affect Bintara TNI ADs’ motivations and goals which in turn shape their organizational behaviour.
TINDAK TUTUR ASERTIF DAN DIREKTIF PADA NOVEl "TAK PUTUS DIRUNDUNG MALANG" KARYA S. TAKDIR ALISJAHBANA
Authors: Purwo Yudi Utomo Asep , Farkhatunnisa Alif , Fitriyani Anisah
Published: May 2023

This study aims to explain the form of assertive and directive speech in the novel "Tak Putus Dirundung Malang" by S. Destiny Alisjahbana, as well as to understand the meaning of each speech in the form of writing, especially in novels. The method used in this study is a qualitative descriptive method with a pragmatic approach. This research data is the speech of the characters in the novel "Tak Putus Dirundung Malang" by S. Destiny Alisjahbana. Then the collected data is analyzed based on the theoretical studies that have been obtained. From the results of the analysis, seven forms of assertive speech acts and seven forms of directive speech acts were obtained. Forms of assertive speech acts that have been found, namely assertive speech acts stating (8 quotes), bragging (3 quotes), complaining (7 quotes), expressing (8 quotes), expressing opinions (12 quotes), mentioning (2 quotes), and reporting (4 quotes). The forms of directive speech acts found, namely prohibitive directive speech acts (17 citations), commanding (20 citations), begging (4 citations), demanding (4 citations), advising (13 citations), advising (13 citations), suggesting (21 citations), and opposing (3 citations). So, it can be concluded that this novel contains many directive speech acts, especially in the form of speech that has the intention of suggesting and commanding.
The human lens is capable of trilineage differentiation towards osteo-, chondro-, and adipogenesis—a model for studying cataract pathogenesis
Authors: Boix-Lemonche Gerard , Nagymihaly Richard M. , Lumi Xhevat , Petrovski Goran
Published: May 2023

The potential for trilineage differentiation of cells in tissues represents a model for studying disease pathogenesis and regeneration pathways. Human lens trilineage differentiation has not yet been demonstrated, and so has calcification and osteogenic differentiation of human lens epithelial cells in the whole human lens. Such changes can pose a risk for complications during cataract surgery. Human lens capsules (n = 9) from cataract patients undergoing uneventful surgery were trilineage-differentiated toward osteogenesis, chondrogenesis, and adipogenesis. Furthermore, whole human healthy lenses (n = 3) collected from cadaveric eyes were differentiated into bone and characterized by immunohistochemistry. The cells in the human lens capsules were capable of undergoing trilineage differentiation, while the whole human healthy lenses could undergo osteogenesis differentiation, expressing osteocalcin, collagen I, and pigment epithelium-derived factor. We, hereby, show an ex vivo model for cataract formation through different stages of opacification, as well as provide in vivo evidence from patients undergoing calcified lens extraction with bone-like consistency.
Alterations of biaxial viscoelastic properties of the right ventricle in pulmonary hypertension development in rest and acute stress conditions
Authors: Liu Wenqiang , LeBar Kristen , Roth Kellan , Pang Jassia , Ayers Jessica , Chicco Adam J. , Puttlitz Christian M. , Wang Zhijie
Published: May 2023

Introduction: The right ventricle (RV) mechanical property is an important determinant of its function. However, compared to its elasticity, RV viscoelasticity is much less studied, and it remains unclear how pulmonary hypertension (PH) alters RV viscoelasticity. Our goal was to characterize the changes in RV free wall (RVFW) anisotropic viscoelastic properties with PH development and at varied heart rates.

Methods: PH was induced in rats by monocrotaline treatment, and the RV function was quantified by echocardiography. After euthanasia, equibiaxial stress relaxation tests were performed on RVFWs from healthy and PH rats at various strain-rates and strain levels, which recapitulate physiological deformations at varied heart rates (at rest and under acute stress) and diastole phases (at early and late filling), respectively.

Results and Discussion: We observed that PH increased RVFW viscoelasticity in both longitudinal (outflow tract) and circumferential directions. The tissue anisotropy was pronounced for the diseased RVs, not healthy RVs. We also examined the relative change of viscosity to elasticity by the damping capacity (ratio of dissipated energy to total energy), and we found that PH decreased RVFW damping capacity in both directions. The RV viscoelasticity was also differently altered from resting to acute stress conditions between the groups—the damping capacity was decreased only in the circumferential direction for healthy RVs, but it was reduced in both directions for diseased RVs. Lastly, we found some correlations between the damping capacity and RV function indices and there was no correlation between elasticity or viscosity and RV function. Thus, the RV damping capacity may be a better indicator of RV function than elasticity or viscosity alone. These novel findings on RV dynamic mechanical properties offer deeper insights into the role of RV biomechanics in the adaptation of RV to chronic pressure overload and acute stress.
Tri-element nanozyme PtCuSe as an ingenious cascade catalytic machine for the amelioration of Parkinson’s disease-like symptoms
Authors: Xu Hongdang , Ding Xin , Li Lingrui , Li Qing , Li Zhiye , Lin Hongqi
Published: May 2023

Parkinson’s disease (PD), as the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s, has become intractable with the increasing aging global population. The exploration of nanomedicine has broadened the opportunities for developing novel neuroprotective therapies. In particular, polymetallic functional nanomaterials have been widely used in the biomedicine field in recent years, exhibiting flexible and diversified functions and controllable properties. In this study, a tri-element nanozyme (PtCuSe nanozyme) has been developed with desirable CAT- and SOD-like activities for the cascade scavenging of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In particular, the nanozyme is suitable for relieving nerve cell damage by removing reactive oxygen species in cells and mitigating the behavioral and pathological symptoms in animal models of Parkinson’s disease. Therefore, this ingenious tri-element nanozyme may have potential in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases.
iPSC-based approach for human hair follicle regeneration
Authors: Vatanashevanopakorn Chinnavuth , Sartyoungkul Thanutchaporn
Published: May 2023

Hair follicles (HFs) are a multifunctional structure involved in physical protection, thermoregulation, sensational detection, and wound healing. Formation and cycling of HFs require dynamic interaction between different cell types of the follicles. Although the processes have been well studied, the generation of human functional HFs with a normal cycling pattern for clinical utilization has yet to be achieved. Recently, human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) serve as an unlimited cell source for generating various types of cells including cells of the HFs. In this review, HF morphogenesis and cycling, different cell sources used for HF regeneration, and potential strategies for HF bioengineering using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are depicted. Challenges and perspectives toward the therapeutic use of bioengineered HFs for hair loss disorder are also discussed.
The long non-coding RNA MALAT1 regulates intestine host-microbe interactions and polyposis
Authors: Long Tianyun , Hernandez Juan E. , Ma Shengyun , Steele Scarlet , Luo Claire , Li Yuxin , Xie Qinghong , Telese Francesca , Zhou Bing , Huang Wendy Jia Men
Published: May 2023

The long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) Metastasis-associated lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) maintains the integrity of the intestinal epithelial barrier and regulates local inflammation. However, its influences on intestinal microbial communities and tissue susceptibility to cancer development remain unexplored. Here, we report that MALAT1 regulates host anti-microbial response gene expression and the composition of mucosal-associated microbial communities in a region-specific manner. In the APC mutant mouse model of intestine tumorigenesis, knocking out MALAT1 results in higher polyp counts in the small intestine and colon. Interestingly, intestine polyps that developed in the absence of MALAT1 were smaller in size. These findings highlight the unexpected bivalent role of MALAT1 in restricting and promoting cancer progression at different disease stages. Among the 30 MALAT1-targets shared by both the small intestine and colon, ZNF638 and SENP8 levels are predictive of colon adenoma patient overall survival and disease-free survival. Genomic assays further revealed that MALAT1 modulates intestinal target expression and splicing through both direct and indirect mechanisms. This study expands the role of lncRNAs in regulating intestine homeostasis, microbial communities, and cancer pathogenesis.
Robotic-assisted mitral valve surgery without aortic cross-clamping: a safe and feasible technique
Authors: Ökten Eyüp Murat , Özcan Zeynep Sıla , Arslanhan Gökhan , Şenay Şahin , Güllü Ahmet Ümit , Koçyiğit Muharrem , Değirmencioğlu Aleks , Alhan Cem
Published: May 2023

Background

The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the safety and feasibility of robotic-assisted mitral valve surgery without aortic cross-clamping.

Methods

From January 2010 to September 2022, 28 patients underwent robotic-assisted mitral valve surgery without aortic cross-clamping in our center using DaVinci Robotic Systems. Clinical data during the perioperative period and early outcomes of the patients were recorded.

Results

Most patients were in New York Heart Association (NYHA) class II and III. Mean age and EuroScore II of the patients were 71.5 ± 13.5 and 8.4 ± 3.7 respectively. The patients underwent either mitral valve replacement (n = 16, 57.1%) or mitral valve repair (n = 12, 42.9%). Concomitant procedures were performed including tricuspid valve repair, tricuspid valve replacement, PFO closure, left atrial appendage ligation, left atrial appendage thrombectomy and cryoablation for atrial fibrillation. Mean CPB times were 140.9 ± 44.6 and mean fibrillatory arrest duration was 76.6 ± 18.4. Mean duration of ICU stay was 32.5 ± 28.8 h and mean duration of hospital stay 9.8 ± 8.3 days. One patient (3.6%) underwent revision due to bleeding. New onset renal failure was observed in one (3.6%) patient and postoperative stroke in one (3.6%) patient. Postoperative early mortality was observed in two (7.1%) patients.

Conclusions

Robotic-assisted mitral valve surgery without cross-clamping is a safe and feasible technique in high-risk patients undergoing redo mitral surgery with severe adhesions as well as in primary mitral valve cases that are complicated with ascending aortic calcification.
Homemade fenestration and chimney techniques for the left subclavian artery revascularization during zone 2 thoracic endovascular aortic repair
Authors: Ye Jiacheng , Li Yuliang , Lu Yue , Wang Yongzheng , Liu Bin , Chang Haiyang
Published: May 2023

Background

To investigate the safety and efficacy of homemade fenestration and chimney techniques for the left subclavian artery (LSA) revascularization during zone 2 thoracic endovascular aortic repair (TEVAR).

Methods

From February 2017 to February 2021, 41 patients undergoing fenestration technique (group A) and 42 patients undergoing chimney technique (group B) to preserve the LSA during zone 2 TEVAR were enrolled in the present study. The procedure was indicated for dissections with unsuitable proximal landing zone with refractory pain and hypertension, rupture and malperfusion, and high-risk radiographic features. The baseline characteristics, peri-procedure, and follow-up clinical and radiographic data were recorded and analyzed. The primary endpoint was clinical success, and the secondary endpoints were rupture-free survival, LSA patency, and complications. Aortic remodeling, defined as patency, partial and complete thrombosis of the false lumen, was also analyzed.

Results

Technical success was achieved in 38 and 41 patients in groups A and B, respectively. Four intervention-related deaths were confirmed, two in each group. Immediate post-procedural endoleaks were detected in two and three patients in group A and B, respectively. No other major complications were found in either group, except for one retrograde type A dissection in group A. During follow-up, the initial clinical success rates were 90.24% and 92.86% in groups A and B, respectively. The primary and secondary mid-term clinical success rates were 87.5% and 90% in group A, and both of them were 92.68% in group B. Rupture-free survival and LSA patency were not significantly different between the two groups. The incidence of complete thrombosis in the aorta distal to the stent graft was 67.65% and 61.11% in groups A and B, respectively.

Conclusions

Apart from the lower clinical success rate of fenestration technique, both physician-modified techniques are available for LSA revascularization during zone 2 TEVAR and significantly promote favorable aortic remodeling.
Machine learning prediction of progressive subclinical myocardial dysfunction in moderate aortic stenosis
Authors: Namasivayam Mayooran , Meredith Thomas , Muller David W. M. , Roy David A. , Roy Andrew K. , Kovacic Jason C. , Hayward Christopher S. , Feneley Michael P.
Published: May 2023

Background

Moderate severity aortic stenosis (AS) is poorly understood, is associated with subclinical myocardial dysfunction, and can lead to adverse outcome rates that are comparable to severe AS. Factors associated with progressive myocardial dysfunction in moderate AS are not well described. Artificial neural networks (ANNs) can identify patterns, inform clinical risk, and identify features of importance in clinical datasets.

Methods

We conducted ANN analyses on longitudinal echocardiographic data collected from 66 individuals with moderate AS who underwent serial echocardiography at our institution. Image phenotyping involved left ventricular global longitudinal strain (GLS) and valve stenosis severity (including energetics) analysis. ANNs were constructed using two multilayer perceptron models. The first model was developed to predict change in GLS from baseline echocardiography alone and the second to predict change in GLS using data from baseline and serial echocardiography. ANNs used a single hidden layer architecture and a 70%:30% training/testing split.

Results

Over a median follow-up interval of 1.3 years, change in GLS (≤ or >median change) could be predicted with accuracy rates of 95% in training and 93% in testing using ANN with inputs from baseline echocardiogram data alone (AUC: 0.997). The four most important predictive baseline features (reported as normalized % importance relative to most important feature) were peak gradient (100%), energy loss (93%), GLS (80%), and DI < 0.25 (50%). When a further model was run including inputs from both baseline and serial echocardiography (AUC 0.844), the top four features of importance were change in dimensionless index between index and follow-up studies (100%), baseline peak gradient (79%), baseline energy loss (72%), and baseline GLS (63%).

Conclusions

Artificial neural networks can predict progressive subclinical myocardial dysfunction with high accuracy in moderate AS and identify features of importance. Key features associated with classifying progression in subclinical myocardial dysfunction included peak gradient, dimensionless index, GLS, and hydraulic load (energy loss), suggesting that these features should be closely evaluated and monitored in AS.
Mechanical behavior analysis and bearing capacity calculation of CFG pile composite foundation on coral sand site
Authors: Li Xiaobin , Zhang Ruiyuan , Yang Zhao , Chen Peishuai , Ji Fuquan , Wen Bing
Published: May 2023

Coral sand foundation formed by hydraulic fill often faces the problem of poor bearing capacity. This paper proposed for the first time to apply CFG pile composite foundation to coral sand sites to verify the feasibility of this scheme and understand its mechanical characteristics. Firstly, taking on-site coral sand as the research object, a pile sand interface shear test was conducted to clarify the mechanism of pile side friction. At the same time, the ultimate bearing capacity of CFG pile and its composite foundation was measured through in-situ static load tests. Then, based on the strength parameters of the pile sand interface revealed by indoor tests, numerical simulations were conducted to analyze the bearing characteristics of CFG piles and their composite foundations. Finally, a method for calculating the vertical bearing capacity of rigid piles in composite foundation considering interface parameters was proposed. The results showed that the bearing capacity characteristic values of single pile and composite foundation meet the design requirements; The interface friction angle and cohesion together increased the ultimate side friction by 64.41%; The load is mainly borne by the pile tip resistance, and the increase of the interface friction angle will make the proportion of the side friction load first increase and then decrease more obviously; The pile soil stress ratio first increased and then tended to stabilize as the interface strength increased. Compared with the field static load test results, the rationality of the calculation method for composite foundation rigid piles was verified. This study may have reference significance for the design and construction of coral sand foundation treatment in offshore island and reef projects.
Research on decision-making of water diversion supply chain considering both social welfare and water quality utility
Authors: Jiao Hongbo , Zhang Jiachao , Li Yinan , Cheng Liming , Chen Yongrui , Zhu Hanyu
Published: May 2023

When water diversion projects become important part of the water network around the world, the effective operation and management of the projects play important roles in giving full play to the optimal allocation of water resources. For the operation and management of water transfer, the decision-making of water supply chain under the scenario of economic benefit, producer surplus, and water quality utility should be considered simultaneously. According to the idea of supply chain, this paper regards water transfer operation management as a water supply chain composed of water transfer companies, water supply companies, and consumers. From the perspective of social welfare and water quality utility, a comprehensive optimization and coordination decision model for water transfer is proposed. Taking the South-to-North Water Diversion Project as the research object, the cost-sharing contract is designed, and the Stackelberg game method is used to optimize the decision-making and coordination of the water supply chain. The results show that when the concern coefficient and the cost-sharing ratio are evaluated within a given feasible value region, the profits of both the water transfer company and the water supply company can be improved. The feasible value interval of the concern coefficient decreases with the increase in the cost-bearing proportion. When the concern coefficient increases, the profit of the water transfer company decreases, while profit of the water supply company, water quality, consumer surplus, water quality utility, and utility of the water transfer company increase gradually. The results provide valuable references for water transfer decision-making.
Complex thinking through a Transition Design-guided Ideathon: testing an AI platform on the topic of sharing economy
Authors: Sanabria-Z Jorge , Castillo-Martínez Isolda Margarita , González-Pérez Laura Icela , Ramírez-Montoya María Soledad
Published: May 2023

Rationale

The development of the complex thinking meta-competency in the education of university students potentially promotes high capacities, where artificial intelligence (AI) might work as a supporting structure.

Objective

This proof-of-concept study of an AI-based platform aimed to integrate a sequence of activities into the design of an online platform to assess the development of complex thinking competency in higher education students.

Method

The Transition Design method was used within an Ideathon event supported by an AI platform to provide students with a sharing economy challenge. A total of 31 university students from five university campuses in Mexico synchronously participated. An instrument was applied in the pre-test and post-test phases to explore the complex thinking meta-competency and its sub-competencies of critical, innovative, scientific, and systemic thinking.

Results

Two hypotheses were tested, both of which turned out to be true: (a) the functioning of the constructed learning situation and (b) the model of the learning situation.

Conclusion

These findings may be of value to scientific and academic communities, as well as social and business organizations interested in developing high capacities of complex thinking and educational innovations using digital platforms.
Low T3 syndrome is associated with 30-day mortality in adult patients with fulminant myocarditis
Authors: Miao Guangrui , Pang Shuo , Zhou Yuanhang , Duan Mingxuan , Bai Linpeng , Zhao Xiaoyan
Published: May 2023

Background

Fulminant myocarditis (FM) is a critical disease with high early mortality. Low triiodothyronine syndrome (LT3S) was a strong predictor of poor prognosis of critical diseases. This study investigated whether LT3S was associated with 30-day mortality in FM patients.

Methods

Ninety-six FM patients were divided into LT3S (n=39, 40%) and normal free triiodothyronine (FT3) (n=57, 60%) groups based on serum FT3 level. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors of 30-day mortality. Kaplan–Meier curve was used to compare 30-day mortality between two groups. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and decision curve analysis (DCA) were used to assess the value of FT3 level for 30-day mortality prediction.

Results

Compared to normal FT3 group, LT3S group had higher incidence of ventricular arrhythmias, worse hemodynamics, worse cardiac function, more severe kidney impairment, and higher 30-day mortality (48.7% vs. 12.3%, P<0.001). In univariable analysis, LT3S (odds ratio [OR]:6.786, 95% confidence interval [CI]:2.472-18.629, P<0.001) and serum FT3 (OR:0.272, 95%CI:0.139-0.532, P<0.001) were significant strong predictors of 30-day mortality. After adjustment for confounders in multivariable analysis, LT3S (OR:3.409, 95%CI:1.019-11.413, P=0.047) and serum FT3 (OR:0.408, 95%CI:0.199-0.837, P=0.014) remained independent 30-day mortality predictors. The area under the ROC curve of FT3 level was 0.774 (cut-off: 3.58, sensitivity: 88.46%, specificity: 62.86%). In DCA, FT3 level showed good clinical-application value for 30-day mortality prediction.

Conclusion

In FM patients, LT3S could independently predict 30-day mortality. FT3 level was a strong 30-day mortality predictor and a potentially useful risk-stratification biomarker.
Inverse correlation of intact PTH, oxidized PTH as well as non-oxidized PTH with 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Zuo Jiao , Hasan Ahmed A. , Hocher Carl-Friedrich , Kalk Philipp , Kleuser Burkhard , Krämer Bernhard K. , Hocher Berthold
Published: May 2023

Background

25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) and potentially also 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (1,25(OH)2D) inhibits the synthesis of parathyroid hormone (PTH) in the chief cells of the parathyroid gland. Clinical studies showing a negative correlation between (25(OH)D and PTH are in good agreement with these findings in basic science studies. However, PTH was measured in these studies with the currently clinically used 2nd or 3rd generation intact PTH (iPTH) assay systems. iPTH assays cannot distinguish between oxidized forms of PTH and non-oxidized PTH. Oxidized forms of PTH are the by far most abundant form of PTH in the circulation of patients with impaired kidney function. Oxidation of PTH causes a loss of function of PTH. Given that the clinical studies done so far were performed with an PTH assay systems that mainly detect oxidized forms of PTH, the real relationship between bioactive non-oxidized PTH and 25(OH)D as well as 1,25(OH)2D is still unknown.

Methods

To address this topic, we compared for the first time the relationship between 25(OH)D as well as 1,25(OH)2D and iPTH, oxPTH as well as fully bioactive n-oxPTH in 531 stable kidney transplant recipients in the central clinical laboratories of the Charité. Samples were assessed either directly (iPTH) or after oxPTH (n-oxPTH) was removed using a column that used anti-human oxPTH monoclonal antibodies, a monoclonal rat/mouse parathyroid hormone antibody (MAB) was immobilized onto a column with 500 liters of plasma samples. Spearman correlation analysis and Multivariate linear regression were used to evaluate the correlations between the variables.

Results

There was an inverse correlation between 25(OH)D and all forms of PTH, including oxPTH (iPTH: r=-0.197, p<0.0001; oxPTH: r=-0.203, p<0.0001; n-oxPTH: r=-0.146, p=0.001). No significant correlation was observed between 1,25(OH)2D and all forms of PTH. Multiple linear regression analysis considering age, PTH (iPTH, oxPTH and n-oxPTH), serum calcium, serum phosphor, serum creatinine, fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23), osteoprotegerin (OPG), albumin, and sclerostin as confounding factors confirmed these findings. Subgroup analysis showed that our results are not affected by sex and age.

Conclusion

In our study, all forms of PTH are inversely correlated with 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D). This finding would be in line with an inhibition of the synthesis of all forms of PTH (bioactive n-oxPTH and oxidized forms of PTH with minor or no bioactivity) in the chief cells of the parathyroid glad.
The aggregation effect of organic matter on bauxite residue particles and its improvement mechanism
Authors: Dong Mengyang , Wang Guizhen , Gul Wazir Zafran , Liu Jing , Hou Guoqin , Gao Xinyu , Chao Liang , Rong Fangxu , Xu Yuzhi , Li Mingyue , Liu Kai , Liu Aiju , Liu Hongliang
Published: May 2023

Introduction: Understanding organic amendment and the agglomeration of bauxite residue particles is vital to soil amelioration of bauxite residues. In this study, a pot culture experiment was conducted to illustrate the aggregation of organic amendment on bauxite residues particles and its improvement mechanism. The single organic amendment and its combination with soil inoculum were conducted to explore the aggregation effect of organic matter on bauxite residue particles, and its correlations with microbial rehabilitation.

Methods: The dry- and wet-sieving method were used to obtain different sizes of aggregates. The concentrations of soil organic carbon and iron and aluminum (Fe/Al) oxides in the forms extractable by DCB (Fed/Ald) and oxalate (Fe0/Al0) were measured. Microbial rehabilitation after 180 days incubation was determined with the methods of Biolog Ecoplate™ and the high-throughput sequencing.

Results and Discussion: The results showed that over 180 days incubation, the alkalinity of bauxite residues was significantly decreased with the organic amendment based on the value of pH, EC and ESP (down to 9.26, 0.61 m/cm and 55.5%, respectively, in HS3). Secondly, organic amendment significantly promoted microbial community establishment and ecological function recovery. Moreover, the MWD value of aggregates also increased to 0.73 mm from the initial 0.32 mm, companied with the increase of the Fe/Al oxidizes. The further Pearson relationship analysis and the characterization of EPMA and SEM indicated that the organic matter and Fe/Al oxides played important roles in cementing fine bauxite residues particles and increasing aggregates stability, while this aggregation process was accelerated by the establishment of microbial ecology in bauxite residues. Therefore, organic amendment was more implication in soil amelioration of bauxite residues other than the directive modifications on alkalinity.
A common protocol for reliable comparison of pollen fatty acid profiles: highlighting pitfalls and proposing a methodology for ecological research
Authors: Villagómez Gemma Nydia , Brachvogel René-Chris , Kárpáti Zsolt , Leonhardt Sara D. , Schmitt Thomas , Ruedenauer Fabian A.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Pollen is an important tissue in plants that plays a vital role in plant reproduction as it carries male gametes and occasionally also serves as a pollinator reward. There has been an increasing interest in pollen chemistry due to the impact of chemical variation on pollinator choices and well-being, especially in bees. The pollen fat content and lipid-to-protein ratio have been shown to play a crucial role in regulating pollen intake, and some bee species avoid overconsumption of fatty acids while specific pollen fatty acid ratios are essential for bee cognition. Therefore, knowledge of the fatty acid composition of plant pollen is crucial for understanding plant-pollinator interactions. However, existing methods for fatty acid analyses are not always specific to pollen fatty acids, and non-pollen-derived fatty acids can easily contaminate samples, making comparison between different methods impossible. Hence, the objectives of our study were to highlight the common mistakes and pitfalls made during pollen fatty acid extraction and analysis and propose a common protocol for reliable comparisons of pollen samples.

Methods

The proposed method, developed in two different labs using different gas chromatograph/mass spectrometers and gas chromatograph/flame ionization detectors, involved manually homogenizing pollen, extracting it with chloroform:methanol (2:1), and analyzing it using gas chromatography (GC) and mass spectrometry (MS) and a flame ionization detector (FID) for identification and quantification.

Results

We found that many fatty acids were present in plastic materials and many solvents commonly used in the labs, cautioning against the use of plastic and recommending blank samples to determine the level of contamination. We also suggest adding an internal standard and checking the MS and FID’s saturation limit before starting pollen homogenization.

Discussion

Our proposed method generated reliable fatty acid profiles of pollen from two different plant species analyzed in the two labs, and we hope it serves as a blueprint for achieving a common methodology for characterizing and comparing pollen fatty acid profiles in ecological research.
“Can my mother come?” Asylum interviews with unaccompanied and separated children seeking asylum in the Netherlands
Authors: Rap Stephanie E.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The UN Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) accords children the right to give their views on all important decisions in their life (art.12 CRC). In the past decades increased awareness has risen among professionals who work with children in judicial and administrative proceedings, to hear their voices. The key question guiding this research was whether refugee children have the possibility to meaningfully participate in asylum proceedings, as required by international children's rights law and standards? Asylum application procedures are highly complex administrative procedures, that are often not adapted to the capacities and level of maturity of children. Recent studies suggest that the right to participation and information is insufficiently safeguarded for children involved in asylum procedures. Unaccompanied children seeking asylum as young as 6 years of age have to go through the asylum procedure in the Netherlands. Efforts have been put in making this procedure more child-friendly, by designing a child-friendly interview room and training immigration officers. The aim of this study was to explore to what extent the immigration authority takes into account children's voice, age and development, in line with international children's rights.

Methods

Observations have been conducted of first instance asylum application interviews with children held by immigration officers. In total 13 interviews with children aged 7–11 have been observed, that were held between 2012 and 2019.

Results

The results show that child-friendly conversation techniques and tools are used to some extent, however, immigration officers should be trained more extensively in order to enhance the effective participation of young children.

Discussion

It is concluded that interviews with children could be improved by giving children more information and using techniques to communicate with young children. In order to truly hear the child's voice the interviews should be better adapted to the age and level of development of unaccompanied children.
Effect of an inactivated coronavirus disease 2019 vaccine, CoronaVac, on blood coagulation and glucose: a randomized, controlled, open-label phase IV clinical trial
Authors: Xu Qing , Lu Xi , Liu Xiaodong , Zhao Yanwei , Sun Dapeng , Cao Qingfan , Liu Haidong , Yang Tuantuan , Song Yufei , Lv Jingjing , Xiong Ping , Li Jing , Sun Jianwen , Xie Meng , Gao Yongjun , Zhang Li
Published: May 2023

Background

Billions of doses of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccines have been administered and several cases of thrombocytopenia with thrombosis syndrome (TTS) have been reported after the administration of adenoviral vector vaccines. However, the effects of an inactivated COVID-19 vaccine, CoronaVac, on coagulation are not well understood.

Methods

In this randomized, controlled, open-label phase IV clinical trial, 270 participants including 135 adults aged 18–59 years and 135 adults aged 60 years or older, were enrolled and randomized to the CoronaVac group or to the control group in a 2:1 ratio and received two doses of CoronaVac or one dose of the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine and one dose of inactivated hepatitis A vaccine on days 0 and 28, respectively. Adverse events were collected for 28 days after each dose. Blood samples were taken on days 0, 4, 14, 28, 32, 42, and 56 after the first dose to evaluate neutralizing antibody titers and laboratory parameters of coagulation function and blood glucose.

Results

Fourteen days after the second dose of CoronaVac, the seroconversion rates of neutralizing antibodies against the prototype strain and beta, gamma, and delta variants of concern (VOC) of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) reached peak values of 89.31%, 23.3%, 45.3%, and 53.5%, respectively. The incidence of adverse reactions was 43.6% and 52.2% in the CoronaVac group and in the control group, respectively. All were mild or moderate in severity. For the laboratory parameters, there was no difference in the means of any parameter between the two groups at any time point, except for the D-dimer on day 14. However, the D-dimer in the CoronaVac group decreased on day 14 compared to the value at baseline, while a higher D-dimer value, instead of a decreased D-dimer value, was a risk factor for TTS.

Conclusion

CoronaVac showed a good safety profile and could induce a humoral response against the prototype and VOCs of SARS-CoV-2 in adults 18 years or older, with no abnormal effects on laboratory parameters of blood glucose and coagulation function.
Identification of a potential novel biomarker in intervertebral disk degeneration by bioinformatics analysis and experimental validation
Authors: Yang Zhao , Yuan Zhen-Zhen , Ma Xin-Long
Published: May 2023

Background

Intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD) is a major cause of low back pain and one of the most common health problems all over the world. However, the early diagnosis of IVDD is still restricted. The purpose of this study is to identify and validate the key characteristic gene of IVDD and analyze its correlation with immune cell infiltration.

Methods

3 IVDD-related gene expression profiles were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to screen for differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Gene Ontology (GO) and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) were conducted to explore the biological functions. Two machine learning algorithms were used to identify characteristic genes, which were tested to further find the key characteristic gene. The receiver operating characteristic curve was performed to estimate the clinical diagnostic value of the key characteristic gene. The excised human intervertebral disks were obtained, and the normal nucleus pulposus (NP) and degenerative NP were carefully separated and cultured in vitro. The expression of the key characteristic gene was validated by real-time quantitative PCR (qRT-PCR). The related protein expression in NP cells was detected by Western blot. Finally, the correlation was investigated between the key characteristic gene and immune cell infiltration.

Results

A total of 5 DEGs, including 3 upregulated genes and 2 downregulated genes, were screened between IVDD and control samples. GO enrichment analysis showed that DEGs were enriched to 4 items in BP, 6 items in CC, and 13 items in MF. They mainly included the regulation of ion transmembrane transport, transporter complex, and channel activity. GSEA suggested that the cell cycle, DNA replication, graft versus host disease, and nucleotide excision repair were enriched in control samples, while complement and coagulation cascades, Fc γ R–mediated phagocytosis, neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, gap junctions, etc., were enriched in IVDD samples. Furthermore, ZNF542P was identified and tested as key characteristic gene in IVDD samples through machine learning algorithms and showed a good diagnostic value. The results of qRT-PCR showed that compared with normal NP cells, the expression of ZNF542P gene was decreased in degenerated NP cells. The results of Western blot suggested that compared with normal NP cells, the expression of NLRP3 and pro Caspase-1 was increased in degenerated NP cells. Finally, we found that the expression of ZNF542P was positively related to the proportions of T cells gamma delta (γδT cells).

Conclusion

ZNF542P is a potential biomarker in the early diagnosis of IVDD and may be associated with the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway and the infiltration of γδT cells.
Towards understanding host–pathogen dynamics of cetacean poxvirus: attainable approach through the application of a repetitive non-invasive skin sampling in bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) under human care
Authors: Segura-Göthlin Simone , Fernández Antonio , Arbelo Manuel , Almunia Javier , von Fersen Lorenzo , Baumgartner Katrin , Garcés José Guerra , Llanos Aldo Gutiérrez , Felipe-Jiménez Idaira , Colom-Rivero Ana , Sierra Eva
Published: May 2023

Nowadays, zoos and aquariums, along with the constant advancement of sociocultural moral values, are proactively committed to ensuring and safeguarding cetacean health standards. This entails developing new approaches to health assessments by embracing minimally invasive sampling methods and enhanced animal handling and management, among other aspects. Hence, in the present survey, to appraise skin diseases, the implementation of cytology cell samplers as a non-invasive skin sampling device on 18 bottlenose dolphins housed in two facilities in the Canary Islands during the months of April, October, and December 2019 was performed to isolate cetacean poxvirus in tattoo-like lesions through a real-time PCR-based method using the DNA polymerase gene. Samples were repeatedly collected over time from eleven tattoo-like lesions and from apparently healthy skin to serve as a control for all study animals. From a total of 55 skin samples, detection of the poxvirus was attained in 31 (56.36%); specifically, on 20 of 21 samples collected from tattoo-like lesions (95.23%) and on 11 of 34 samples acquired from apparently healthy skin (32.35%). Correspondingly, the current study constitutes the first report of the isolation of cetacean poxvirus in skin samples without macroscopical signs of tattoo lesions in cetaceans. Likewise, ten of the eleven dolphins that showed tattoo lesions housed in Facility 1 were positive for tattoo skin disease, while four dolphins held in Facility 2 were positive for cetacean poxvirus without ever showing clinical evidence of the disease. This raises the question of whether this pathogen can produce latent infections and whether progression of the disease may depend on environmental stimuli, viral load, or the good health/immunological status of individual animals. Accordingly, further scientific research on cetaceans under human care could provide the knowledge, skills, and resources to understand the host–pathogen dynamics of cetacean poxviruses and their effect on cetaceans’ health.
Experimental study to optimize cold working, aging temperature, and time on the properties of AA6061 tubes: analysis using design of experiment
Authors: Mehmood Arshad , Akhtar Kareem , Noor Sahar , Zahir M. Zeeshan , Ullah Barkat , Khan Razaullah , Salah Bashir , Sajid Ullah Syed
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of various process parameters, such as cold work, aging temperature, and aging time, on the yield strength, ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and elongation of AA6061 tubes. The experimental plan is carried out, and the data is analyzed using Design Expert software. Main effects plots and interaction plots are generated to visually examine the effects of individual factors and the interaction between two factors on the output response variables. ANOVA analysis is conducted to assess the statistical significance of the model and individual model coefficients. The results reveal that all input factors had a significant impact on yield, whereas cold work and temperature and their interaction are significant for UTS. However, the model is not significant for elongation. The most notable finding is that the aging temperature’s effect is significant than the other two factors. These study findings can inform future experiments or process optimization efforts by considering the combined impact of these factors and their interactions. The study also found that the optimal temperature range is between 155°C to 170°C, along with a recommended cold work percentage of 10% or more and preferred time of above 10 h up to overage time. The model achieved an overall accuracy rate of over 90%, indicating its ability to predict the response variable with a high degree of precision.
The application of drug loading and drug release characteristics of two-dimensional nanocarriers for targeted treatment of leukemia
Authors: Yao Yuan , Gao Xiaoli , Zhou Zaifu
Published: May 2023

The development of bioinformatics technology has enabled nanomedicine to play a significant role in drug delivery systems. Its low toxicity, high efficiency, and controllable drug release advantages make it have good application effects. Moreover, common targeted therapeutic drug formulations have weak stability in malignant tumor leukemia, and their application effects are limited. Therefore, based on the characteristics of black phosphorus two-dimensional nanomedicine, experimental designs were conducted on its nanosheet preparation, polyethylene glycol modification, and anti-tumor drug loading. Experimental analysis was also conducted on the characterization ability, drug release, and targeted therapy of nanomedicine. The results show that polyethylene glycol (PEG) modified black phosphorus crystals (BP) nanoparticles can effectively improve their negative electricity, and have relatively stable photothermal properties. The release of doxorubicin hydrochloride (DOX) loaded nanoparticles was analyzed. It was found that the maximum drug release efficiency of BP-PEG-DOX was higher than that of BP-DOX at pH 5 and 7.5 (12.13% > 7.69%, 29.46% > 28.69%). The maximum drug release rates of BP-PEG-DOX-NIR reached 33.23% and 28.67% at temperatures of 35°C and 45°C, with differences of over 10% compared to the non laser group. Moreover, the nano drug loaded particles modified with PEG and treated with laser have a significant killing effect on cells, with a decrease in cell survival rate of over 15%. The two-dimensional nano drug carrier has high safety and effectiveness in drug delivery, and its targeted treatment effect on acute T lymphoblastic leukemia cells is obvious. Its drug release characteristics perform well in photothermal therapy, indicating that black phosphorus nano drugs can improve the biological safety and applicability of drugs in new tumor targeted therapy.
Case report: Abrikossoff's tumor of the facial skin
Authors: Ardeleanu Valeriu , Jecan Radu Cristian , Moroianu Marius , Teodoreanu Razvan Nicolae , Tebeica Tiberiu , Moroianu Lavinia Alexandra , Bujoreanu Florin Ciprian , Nwabudike Lawrence Chukwudi , Tatu Alin Laurentiu
Published: May 2023

Abrikossoff tumors, also known as granular cell tumors (GCT), originate from Schwann cells. The most common location is in the oral cavity, followed by the skin, but they can also be found in the breast, digestive tract, tracheobronchial tree, or central nervous system. They can affect both sexes at any age, with a higher incidence between 30 and 50 years and a slight predisposition for female sex. They are usually solitary tumors but may also be multifocal. Most of the time, they are benign, with malignancy being exceptional in <2% of cases. Clinically, they appear as solid, well-defined, painless tumors, located subcutaneously with dimensions that can reach up to 10 cm. The definitive diagnosis is based on the immunohistochemical examination, and the treatment for benign tumors consists of surgical excision. Chemotherapy or radiotherapy may be required for malignant lesions, but the treatment regimens and their benefits remain unclear. This manuscript presents the case of a 12-year-old girl with a benign GCT, located in the skin on the mandibular line.