bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study on Spontaneous Combustion Law and Prevention Technology of Abandoned Coal in Goaf of Coal Mine
Authors: Lin Lin , Li Zongxiang , Zhang Mingqian , Miao Chuntong , Jia Nan , Liu Yan
Published: July 2023

The spontaneous combustion of coal in goaf areas is a significant natural disaster encountered during coal mining operations. To investigate the oxygen consumption characteristics of different coal types, we conducted TG experiments and closed oxygen consumption experiments using seven coal samples exhibiting various degrees of metamorphism. The findings revealed the following key observations: During the oxidation combustion process of coal, the absorbed heat originates from the physical and chemical adsorption of coal and oxygen. The first exothermic peak on the DSC curve represents the maximum combustion temperature of volatile matter and signifies the initiation of coal burning. Coal with higher ignition temperatures is less prone to spontaneous combustion. Analyzing the thermogravimetric curves, we observed that the ignition temperatures of 15# coal and 8+9# coal predominantly extracted from Duanwang Coal Mine are higher compared to the ignition temperature of the 4# coal seam (known for its susceptibility to spontaneous combustion) in Jiudaoling Coal Mine, Liaoning. This observation aligns with their nonspontaneous combustion characteristics. In the closed oxygen consumption experiment, we determined the volume oxygen consumption attenuation coefficients for the main mining areas’ 8+9# and 15# coal seams as

3.9001
×

10

−
4

and

3.83559
×

10

−
4

, respectively. Additionally, the critical oxygen consumption concentrations were measured as 15.71% and 16.78%. The shortest spontaneous combustion periods were determined to be 119.24 days and 121.25 days, respectively, for the aforementioned coal seams. To mitigate spontaneous combustion, the addition of inhibitors is necessary. The selection of an appropriate inhibitor depends on the increase in ignition activation energy. Notably, coal samples treated with a 15% MgCl2 inhibitor exhibited the highest increase in ignition activation energy. Hence, we concluded that a 15% MgCl2 inhibitor is the most suitable ratio for preventing spontaneous combustion.
Experimental Study on Permeability and Deformation Characteristics of Bedding Shale under Triaxial Shear-Seepage Coupling
Authors: Lin Zhinan , Feng Shihong , Wang Jiaquan , Zhang Qiang , Long Haifeng , Chen Guangming
Published: July 2023

The bedding structure of shale is generated during the deposition and formation, which results in shales with prominent anisotropic characteristics. It depends on stability, control of oil and gas storage, and deep exploitation. In addition, the mechanical and permeability parts of bedding shale are very complex when it is under deep underground space with coupled high stress and high seepage. In this study, the black bedding shale was used as the research object, and a series of triaxial shear-seepage coupling tests were carried out. Firstly, the triaxial shear stress-shear strain curves and permeability-shear stress curves of different bedding shales under other triaxial shear-seepage coupling conditions were obtained. Secondly, the failure characteristics and shear deformation characteristics of shale under the shear-seepage coupling effect were explored. The shear stress threshold and permeability evolution law at each stage of shear failure were discussed. Thirdly, the shear strength, failure mode, and mechanism parameters of the black bedding shale under different normal stress and seepage pressure were studied. Fourthly, the linear M-C criterion, Ramamurthy criterion, and Hoek-Brown criterion characterize the variation of damage strength of shale with bedding orientation under triaxial shear-seepage coupling. Those results provide an experimental basis for exploring the anisotropic mechanical characteristics and failure mechanism of bedding shale under shear-seepage coupling.
Data from Distinct assemblies of heterodimeric cytokine receptors govern stemness programs in leukemia
Authors: Kan Winnie L. , Dhagat Urmi , Kaufmann Kerstin B. , Hercus Timothy R. , Nero Tracy L. , Zeng Andy GX. , Toubia John , Barry Emma F. , Broughton Sophie E. , Gomez Guillermo A. , Benard Brooks A. , Dottore Mara , Cheung Tung Shing Karen S. , Boutzen Helena , Samaraweera Saumya E. , Simpson Kaylene J. , Jin Liqing , Goodall Gregory J. , Begley C. Glenn , Thomas Daniel , Ekert Paul G. , Tvorogov Denis , D'Andrea Richard J. , Dick John E. , Parker Michael W. , Lopez Angel F.
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Leukemia stem cells (LSC) possess distinct self-renewal and arrested differentiation properties that are responsible for disease emergence, therapy failure and recurrence in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Despite AML displaying extensive biological and clinical heterogeneity, LSC with high interleukin-3 receptor (IL-3R) levels are a constant yet puzzling feature as this receptor lacks tyrosine kinase activity. Here we show that the heterodimeric IL3Ra/Bc receptor assembles into hexamers and dodecamers through a unique interface in the 3D structure, where high IL3Ra/Bc ratios bias hexamer formation. Importantly, receptor stoichiometry is clinically relevant as it varies across the individual cells in the AML hierarchy, where high IL3Ra/Bc ratios in LSCs drive hexamer-mediated stemness programs and poor patient survival, whilst low ratios mediate differentiation. Our study establishes a new paradigm where alternative cytokine receptor stoichiometries differentially regulate cell fate; a signaling mechanism that may be generalizable to other transformed cellular hierarchies and of potential therapeutic significance.
Data from Distinct Assemblies of Heterodimeric Cytokine Receptors Govern Stemness Programs in Leukemia
Authors: Kan Winnie L. , Dhagat Urmi , Kaufmann Kerstin B. , Hercus Timothy R. , Nero Tracy L. , Zeng Andy G.X. , Toubia John , Barry Emma F. , Broughton Sophie E. , Gomez Guillermo A. , Benard Brooks A. , Dottore Mara , Cheung Tung Shing Karen S. , Boutzen Héléna , Samaraweera Saumya E. , Simpson Kaylene J. , Jin Liqing , Goodall Gregory J. , Begley C. Glenn , Thomas Daniel , Ekert Paul G. , Tvorogov Denis , D'Andrea Richard J. , Dick John E. , Parker Michael W. , Lopez Angel F.
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Leukemia stem cells (LSC) possess distinct self-renewal and arrested differentiation properties that are responsible for disease emergence, therapy failure, and recurrence in acute myeloid leukemia (AML). Despite AML displaying extensive biological and clinical heterogeneity, LSC with high interleukin-3 receptor (IL3R) levels are a constant yet puzzling feature, as this receptor lacks tyrosine kinase activity. Here, we show that the heterodimeric IL3Rα/βc receptor assembles into hexamers and dodecamers through a unique interface in the 3D structure, where high IL3Rα/βc ratios bias hexamer formation. Importantly, receptor stoichiometry is clinically relevant as it varies across the individual cells in the AML hierarchy, in which high IL3Rα/βc ratios in LSCs drive hexamer-mediated stemness programs and poor patient survival, while low ratios mediate differentiation. Our study establishes a new paradigm in which alternative cytokine receptor stoichiometries differentially regulate cell fate, a signaling mechanism that may be generalizable to other transformed cellular hierarchies and of potential therapeutic significance.
Significance:
Stemness is a hallmark of many cancers and is largely responsible for disease emergence, progression, and relapse. Our finding that clinically significant stemness programs in AML are directly regulated by different stoichiometries of cytokine receptors represents a hitherto unexplained mechanism underlying cell-fate decisions in cancer stem cell hierarchies.
Data from Enhancing CAR T-cell therapy using Fab-Based Constitutively Heterodimeric Cytokine Receptors
Authors: Righi Matteo , Gannon Isaac , Robson Mathew , Srivastava Saket , Kokalaki Evangelia , Grothier Thomas , Nannini Francesco , Allen Christopher , Bai Yuchen V. , Sillibourne James , Cordoba Shaun , Thomas Simon , Pule Martin
Published: July 2023

Abstract
Adoptive T-cell therapy aims to achieve lasting tumor clearance, requiring enhanced engraftment and survival of the immune cells. Cytokines are paramount modulators of T-cell survival and proliferation. Cytokine receptors signal via ligand-induced dimerization, and this principle has been hijacked utilizing non-native dimerization domains. A major limitation of current technologies resides in the absence of a module that recapitulates the natural cytokine receptor heterodimeric pairing. To circumvent this, we created a new engineered cytokine receptor able to constitutively recreate receptor-heterodimer utilizing the heterodimerization domain derived from the IgG1 antibody (dFab_CCR). We found that the signal delivered by the dFab_CCR-IL2 proficiently mimicked the cytokine receptor heterodimerization, with transcriptomic signatures like those obtained by activation of the native IL2 receptor. Moreover, we found that this dimerization structure was agnostic, efficiently activating signaling through four cytokine receptor families. Using a combination of in vivo and in vitro screening approaches, we characterized a library of 18 dFab_CCRs co-expressed with a clinically relevant solid tumor–specific GD2-specific CAR. Based on this characterization, we suggest that the co-expression of either the common β-chain GMCSF or the IL18 dFab_CCRs is optimal to improve CAR T-cell expansion, engraftment, and efficacy. Our results demonstrate how Fab dimerization is efficient and versatile in recapitulating a cytokine receptor heterodimerization signal. This module could be applied for the enhancement of adoptive T-cell therapies, as well as therapies based on other immune cell types. Furthermore, these results provide a choice of cytokine signal to incorporate with adoptive T-cell therapies.
Children’s peer rejection trajectories and Internet gaming addiction: A five-wave growth mixture model
Authors: Feng Mengmeng , Zhou Guangdong
Published: July 2023

This study investigated the longitudinal trajectories of peer rejection and their predictive effects on Internet gaming addiction among Chinese children. The sample comprised 818 students from Grades 1 to 3 ( M = 8.30, SD = 1.11, 51.3% boys). Peer rejection was assessed using peer nominations in five waves over a period of 2.5 years, and Internet gaming addiction was measured using the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short Form in the fifth wave. We used a growth mixture model to explore the developmental trajectory of peer rejection and identified four heterogeneous developmental trajectories: low-drop, moderate-drop, moderate-rise, and high-rise rejection. The trajectory categories of peer rejection significantly predicted Internet gaming addiction. In particular, the prediction in the moderate-rise rejection group was higher than that in the low-drop rejection group. This study indicates that exploring the prediction of trajectory categories on Internet gaming addiction is necessary and that it is essential for families and schools to help children establish good interpersonal relationships and to reduce the development of addictive behaviors associated with Internet gaming.
Enhanced anti-inflammatory and ulcerogenicity of Ibuprofen microsphere formulations using Irvingia wombolu fat (IRW) and moringa oil (MO) as co-lipids
Authors: Gugu Thaddeus H. , Agu Geraldine C. , Uronnachi Emmanuel M. , Chime Salome A.
Published: July 2023

Ibuprofen is a member of the propionic acid class of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) with anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activities used to relieve a variety of pains. The objective of this study was to formulate, characterize and evaluate the in vitro and in vivo properties of ibuprofen formulated as solid lipid microspheres (SLMs) for enhanced delivery. The mixtures of Irvingia wombolu fat (IRW) and moringa oil (MO) each with Phospholipon® 90G (PL90G) at the ratio of 2:1 w/w were prepared by fusion, characterized and used to prepare SLMs. The SLMS were thereafter evaluated using the following parameters: particle size and morphology, stability, and encapsulation efficiency EE (%). In vitro release was carried out in phosphate buffer (pH 7.4). The ibuprofen based SLMs were also evaluated for anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer effects using animal models. The pH showed significant increase after two months of formulation with a maximum value of 6.4 while the EE obtained were 95.6, 89.4 and 61.6% for SLMs formulated with lipid matrix of Phospholipon® 90G (1% and 2%), and MO (1%) respectively. The in vitro release showed maximum release of 87.8 and 98.97% of the two different lipid-based formulations while anti-inflammatory effect was up to 89.90% after 5 h of inducing inflammation. The SLMs did not show any lesion thus conferring gastroprotection on the formulations. The SLMs exhibited good anti-inflammatory property with gastroprotective action.
The association of breast feeding for at least six months with hemodynamic and metabolic health of women and their children aged three years: an observational cohort study
Authors: Pathirana Maleesa M. , Andraweera Prabha H. , Aldridge Emily , Harrison Madeline , Harrison Jade , Leemaqz Shalem , Arstall Margaret A. , Dekker Gustaaf A. , Roberts Claire T.
Published: July 2023

Background

Breastfeeding is important for both mother and child in reducing risk of future cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it may be an effective method to improve cardio-metabolic health, particularly those who are exposed to pregnancy complications which increase later CVD risk for both mother and child. The aim of this study is to assess differences in cardiometabolic health at three years postpartum in mothers who breastfed for at least six months and their children compared to those who did not.

Methods

Women and children from the Screening Tests to Predict Poor Outcomes of Pregnancy (STOP) study (2015–2017) were invited to attend a health check-up at three years postpartum. Women’s breastfeeding status at least six months postpartum was ascertained through their child health record. Anthropometric and hemodynamic measurements were taken from women and their children. A fasting blood sample was taken from women to measure blood glucose and lipids.

Results

A total of 160 woman-child dyads were assessed in this study. Women who breastfed for at least six months had significantly lower maternal BMI, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, mean arterial pressure, central systolic blood pressure, and central diastolic blood pressure than those who did not and this did not change after adjusting for BMI and socioeconomic index in early pregnancy, prenatal smoking and maternal age in early pregnancy. Subgroup analysis on women who had one or more pregnancy complications during the index pregnancy (i.e. preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, delivery of a small for gestational age infant, delivery of a preterm infant, and/or gestational diabetes mellitus) demonstrated that women who breastfed for at least six months had significantly lower maternal systolic and diastolic blood pressures, serum insulin and triglycerides, and higher HDL cholesterol. There were no differences in child anthropometric or hemodynamic variables at three years of age between those children who had been breastfed for at least six months and those who had not.

Conclusion

Breastfeeding for at least six months may reduce some maternal; cardiovascular risk factors in women at three years postpartum, in particular, in those who have experienced a complication of pregnancy.

Trial registration

ACTRN12614000985684 (12/09/2014).
An interpretable MRI-based radiomics model predicting the prognosis of high-intensity focused ultrasound ablation of uterine fibroids
Authors: Li Chengwei , He Zhimin , Lv Fajin , Liu Yang , Hu Yan , Zhang Jian , Liu Hui , Ma Si , Xiao Zhibo
Published: July 2023

Background

Accurate preoperative assessment of the efficacy of high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation for uterine fibroids is essential for good treatment results. The aim of this study was to develop robust radiomics models for predicting the prognosis of HIFU-treated uterine fibroids and to explain the internal predictive process of the model using Shapley additive explanations (SHAP).

Methods

This retrospective study included 300 patients with uterine fibroids who received HIFU and were classified as having a favorable or unfavorable prognosis based on the postoperative nonperfusion volume ratio. Patients were divided into a training set (N = 240) and a test set (N = 60). The 1295 radiomics features were extracted from T2-weighted imaging (T2WI) and contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging (CE-T1WI) scans. After data preprocessing and feature filtering, radiomics models were constructed by extreme gradient boosting and light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM), and the optimal performance was obtained by Bayesian optimization. Finally, the SHAP approach was used to explain the internal prediction process.

Results

The models constructed using LightGBM had the best performance, and the AUCs of the T2WI and CE-T1WI models were 87.2 (95% CI = 87.1–87.5) and 84.8 (95% CI = 84.6–85.7), respectively. The use of SHAP technology can help physicians understand the impact of radiomic features on the predicted outcomes of the model from a global and individual perspective.

Conclusion

Multiparametric radiomic models have shown their robustness in predicting HIFU prognosis. Radiomic features can be a potential source of biomarkers to support preoperative assessment of HIFU treatment and improve the understanding of uterine fibroid heterogeneity.

Clinical relevance statement

An interpretable radiomics model can help clinicians to effectively predict the prognosis of HIFU treatment for uterine fibroids. The heterogeneity of fibroids can be characterized by various radiomics features and the application of SHAP can be used to visually explain the prediction process of radiomics models.

Graphical Abstract
Validation and reliability for the updated REAP-S dietary screener, (Rapid Eating Assessment of Participants, Short Version, v.2)
Authors: Shankar Viswanathan , Thompson Kathryn H. , Wylie-Rosett Judith , Segal-Isaacson C. J.
Published: July 2023

Background

The American Heart Association (AHA) chose the REAP-S dietary screener in 2020 as one of three US dietary screeners recommended for integrating dietary assessment into clinical care. The REAP-S v.2 is an updated version that is aligned with the 2020–2025 US Dietary Guidelines and is easily incorporated into electronic medical records and taught to medical students.

Methods

The University of New England, Institutional Review Board, approved the study protocol. We evaluated the reliability and validity of the REAP-S v.2 scale by having first-year medical students (n = 167) complete both the REAP-S v.2 and a three-day food record and then analyzing their data with the following statistical techniques: Internal consistency was measured using Cronbach's alpha. Construct validity was assessed with exploratory factor analysis. Criterion validity was evaluated using analysis of variance (ANOVA) that explored the associations between REAP-S v.2 scale item responses and selected nutrient estimates from the food record analyses. The hierarchical cluster analysis classified healthy and unhealthy diet grouping under each subscale. Further using these groupings, cut points for "good" and "bad" diets for each of the three main REAP-S v.2 subscales (Food Sufficiency/Food Insufficiency; Healthy Eating Pattern and Low Nutrient Density Foods) were calculated using receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis. Students analyzed their three-day food intake records using an online USDA application called SuperTracker.

Results

The Cronbach’s alpha measuring internal consistency was acceptable for the overall scale at 0.71. The exploratory factor analysis extracted three factors that roughly paralleled the three main subscales, suggesting construct validity. Most selected food record-derived nutrient values were significantly associated with scale items confirming criterion validity. The score cut points suggest that dietary counseling might be needed at ≤ 8, ≤ 10, and ≤ 16 for the above subscales.

Conclusion

The REAP-S v.2 is intended for clinicians to use as a brief dietary screener with their patients. Tested in a population of first-year medical students, the REAP-S v.2 brief dietary screener showed acceptable internal consistency, criterion, and construct validity. It is easily scored and incorporated into the electronic medical record.
Effect of different extraction solvents on the yield and enzyme inhibition (a-amylase, a-glucosidase, and lipase) activity of some vegetables
Authors: Maser Wahyu Haryati , Maiyah Nur , Nagarajan Muralidharan , Kingwascharapong Passakorn , Senphan Theeraphol , Moula Ali Ali Muhammed , Bavisetty Sri Charan Bindu
Published: July 2023

Abstract. Maser WH, Maiyah N, Nagarajan M, Kingwascharapong P, Senphan T, Ali AMM, Bavisetty SCB. 2023. Effect of different extraction solvents on the yield and enzyme inhibition (a-amylase, a-glucosidase, and lipase) activity of some vegetables. Biodiversitas 24: 3320-3331. The present study investigated the in vitro inhibition of a-amylase, a-glucosidase, and lipase, and antioxidant activities (DPPH, metal chelating, and FRAP) of Allium cepa L., Apium graveolens L., Coriandrum sativum L., and Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss using solvent 80% ethanol, absolute ethanol, acetone, methanol, n-hexane, chloroform, and hot water. The total phenolic content (TPC) and the FTIR and GC-MS characterization spectra were compared with the activities. The TPC of 80% ethanol extract in A. graveolens L. was the highest among the extracts, with 23.78 mg GAE/g extract. The 80% ethanol extract exhibited the most potent antioxidant activity on DPPH radical scavenging (A. graveolens, 125.57 mg AEAC/g extract), metal chelating (C. sativum, 92.85 mg EECC/g extract), and FRAP activities (C. sativum, 46.98 mg AEAC/g extract). The 80% ethanol extract showed the highest anti-a-amylase (P. crispum, 30.61 mmol ACE/g extract) and anti-a-glucosidase (A. cepa, 595.28 mmol ACE/g extract) activities. In comparison, the absolute ethanol extract of C. sativum showed the highest anti-lipase activity (42.10% inhibition). According to the FTIR spectra, the 80% ethanol extract of the four green leafy vegetables is predicted to have several active compounds. GC-MS identified the compounds responsible for the activity. Studies on the recovery potential of active compounds as oral agents to treat diabetes mellitus with certain solvents are very useful in producing oral agents and functional foods to prevent diabetes mellitus.
Short Communication: Diversity, distribution and potential uses of Ficus spp. in Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: DEWI SILVIA INDRA , SYAMSUARDI SYAMSUARDI , NURAINAS NURAINAS
Published: July 2023

Abstract. Dewi SI, Syamsuardi, Nurainas. 2023. Short Communication: Diversity, distribution and potential uses of Ficus spp. in Sumatra, Indonesia. Biodiversitas 24: 3431-3438. The Andalas Herbarium is the largest herbarium in Sumatra, with specimens totaling 34,850 sheets and 2011 species of vascular plants from 126 familiesand 491 genera. It serves as a valuable resource for the study of biodiversity, particularly on the island of Sumatra. The purpose of this study was to examine the diversity, distribution, and potential uses of Ficus spp. in Sumatra based on Andalas Herbarium (ANDA) specimens. A total of 2300 herbarium sheets were examined, resulted in 53 species of Ficus spp. collected at Andalas Herbarium. The Ficus at Andalas Herbarium consists of six subgenera, namely Ficus, Pharmacosycea, Sycidium, Sycomorus, Synoecia, and Urostigma. The subgenus with the highest number of species is Urostigma while the lowest is Pharmacosycea.Our examination found the new occurrence of F. rubrocuspidata in West Sumatra. The herbarium specimens were mostly collected from Padang city and least collected from Kampar District. In general, all species of Ficus were found in lowlands and some species were found in highlands. Among the Ficus species recorded at Andalas Herbarium, 63% have the potential uses as medicine, ornamental plants, or consumed as young shoots and fruit.
Healthy eating and physical activity: Analysing Soweto’s young adults’ perspectives with an intersectionality lens
Authors: Mukoma Gudani , Bosire Edna N , Klingberg Sonja , Norris Shane A
Published: July 2023

Background and objectives

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are taking a toll on Africa’s youth at younger ages than in other regions. These are attributed to risk factors that usually advance in adolescence, such as unhealthy diets and reduced physical activity. Young adults in South Africa, particularly women, tend to be sedentary, consume energy-dense diets low in micronutrients, and are more likely to develop NCDs much earlier in life than those in high-income countries. With an intersectionality perspective, this study explored young adults’ barriers and solutions to addressing these risk factors in Soweto.

Setting

Soweto, Johannesburg, South Africa, is one of the most well-known historically disadvantaged townships known for its established communities, and socioeconomic and cultural diversity. Design: A qualitative investigation utilising focus group discussions (FGDs) with a topic guide. FGDs were transcribed verbatim and thematically analysed using a combination of deductive and inductive approaches.

Participants

15 Men and 15 women 18–24 years of age living in Soweto (n = 30). Results: South African young adults have a basic understanding of the significance of nutrition, exercise, and their ties to health. However, numerous barriers (like taste, affordability and crime) to such behaviours were reported, arising from the participants’ personal, domestic, social, and local community levels. Young women experienced sexism and had safety concerns while exercising in the streets, while young men tended to describe themselves as lazy to engage in exercise as they find it boring.

Conclusions

Young adults face a multitude of intersecting barriers, making it difficult to adopt or sustain health-promoting behaviours. It is important that potential solutions focus on the intersections of barriers to healthy eating and physical activity in order to provide more realistic support for such behaviours.
Association between an inflammatory biomarker score and future dementia diagnosis in the population-based UK Biobank cohort of 500,000 people
Authors: Mekli Krisztina , Lophatananon Artitaya , Maharani Asri , Nazroo James Y. , Muir Kenneth R.
Published: July 2023

This study was designed to investigate the relationship between a systematic inflammatory biomarker measure, concurrent and later cognitive performance, and future dementia risk. The literature has reported the potential involvement of inflammation in cognitive performance as well as Alzheimer’s Disease, but not consistently. We used a population-based cohort of 500,000 people in the UK and assessed the association between a composite inflammatory biomarker and cognitive performance measures across five domains measured concurrently and 4–13 years later, taking advantage of the large sample size. We also assessed the same biomarker’s association with dementia diagnosis 3–11 years later in the initially dementia-free sample. We report small but significant associations between elevated biomarker levels and worsened cognitive performance at baseline for four cognitive tasks (OR = 1.204, p<0.001 for Prospective memory, β = -0.366, p<0.001 for Fluid intelligence, β = 8.819, p<0.001 for Reaction time, and β = -0.224, p<0.001 for Numeric memory), comparing the highest quartile of the biomarker to the lowest. We also found that for one measure (Pairs matching) higher biomarker levels were associated with fewer errors, i.e. better performance (β = -0.096, p<0.001). We also report that the 4th quartiles of the baseline biomarker levels were significantly associated with cognitive task scores assessed years later on the p< = 0.002 level, except for the Pair matching test, for which none of the quartiles remained a significant predictor. Finally, the highest biomarker quartile was significantly associated with increased dementia risk compared to the lowest quartile (HR = 1.349, p<0.001). A case-only analysis to assess disease subtype heterogeneity suggested probable differences in the association with the highest biomarker quartile between vascular dementia and Alzheimer disease subtypes (OR = 1.483, p = 0.055). Our results indicate that systemic inflammation may play a small but significant part in dementia pathophysiology, especially in vascular dementia.
Antivenom preclinical efficacy testing against Asian snakes and their availability in Asia: A systematic review
Authors: Soopairin Sutinee , Patikorn Chanthawat , Taychakhoonavudh Suthira
Published: July 2023

Background

Cross-neutralizing strategy has been applied to improve access to antivenoms, a key to reducing mortality and disability of snakebite envenoming. However, preclinical studies have been conducted to identify antivenoms’ cross-neutralizing ability when clinical studies may not be considered ethical. Therefore, this study aimed to identify and summarize scattered evidence regarding the preclinical efficacy of antivenoms against Asian snakes.

Methodology/Principle findings

In this systematic review, we searched for articles published until May 30, 2022, in PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase. Preclinical studies that reported the available antivenoms’ neutralizing ability against Asian snake lethality were included. Quality assessment was performed using the Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation’s risk of bias tool and the adapted the Animal Research ReportingIn VivoExperiments guidelines. The availability of effective antivenoms against Asian snakes was analyzed by comparing data from included studies with snakebite-information and data platforms developed by the World Health Organization. Fifty-two studies were included. Most studies assessed the antivenom efficacy against snakes from Southeast Asia (58%), followed by South Asia (35%) and East Asia (19%). Twenty-two (49%) medically important snakes had antivenom(s) with confirmed neutralizing ability. Situation analyses of the availability of effective antivenoms in Asia demonstrated that locally produced antivenoms did not cover all medically important snakes in each country. Among countries without local antivenom production, preclinical studies were conducted only in Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Malaysia. Risk of bias assessment was limited in some domains because of unreported data.

Conclusions/Significance

Cross-neutralizing of antivenoms against some medically important snakes in Asia was confirmed. This strategy may improve access to geographically effective antivenoms and bypass investment in novel antivenom development, especially in countries without local antivenom production. A database should be developed to aid the development of a snakebite-information system.
The theological anthropology of Paulo Freire in Pedagogy of the Oppressed: a contribution to the discussion
Authors: Attridge Michael
Published: July 2023

This paper explores the theological anthropology of Paulo Freire as found in the opening chapters of his Pedagogy of the Oppressed. It takes as its starting point that Freire was a Roman Catholic and a person of faith and that this is relevant to interpreting his work. It explores the roots and influences on him up until the 1960s. It points out that the existing literature neglects to consider the broader renewal of Catholic theology, particularly theological anthropology occurring in the twentieth century that found its way into Brazil through French catholic theologians. It concludes with an observation about how we might speak of the uniqueness of Freire’s theological anthropology.
Modern Applications of Polymer Composites in Structural Industries: A Review of Philosophies, Product Development, and Graphical Applications
Authors: Oladele Isiaka Oluwole , Onuh Linus Nnabuike , Siengchin Suchart , Sanjay Mavinkere Rangappa , Adelani Samson Oluwagbenga
Published: July 2023

Polymer-based materials have been discovered as the most outstanding class of material that is fast displacing other materials in all areas of human needs. The dire need for durable, aesthetic, and lightweight materials has favored the increasing demand for polymer-based materials in structural industries. The application of polymeric-based materials in all aspects of human endeavor is based on their ease of formation, lightweight, and acceptable properties. The philosophy of composite development has also contributed immensely to the production of components from polymer-based materials suitable for several structural applications. More recently, interest in green materials also encourages the use of polymer-based materials in structural applications. The suitability of a material for any selected application is justified by structural and environmental compatibility. Thus, researchers have focused on these two major areas in their investigations for product development. Despite continuous efforts in these two directions, they are still issues of great concern to researchers in satisfying the desires of users presently. Hence, this review presents the philosophies of researchers, the product developed, and areas of application for polymer-based materials in structural industries such as biomedical, building and construction, energy, and sports. The paper advanced graphical presentation of the application of developed products and strongly supports the recommendation of polymer-based composite materials as a viable alternative to other materials due to their remarkable capabilities in many application domains.
Expression Patterns of ER, PR, HER-2/neu and p53 in Association with Nottingham Tumour Grade in Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Adedokun Kamoru A , Oluogun Waheed A , Oyenike Musiliu A , Imodoye Sikiru O , Yunus Lukman A , Lasisi Ismaila A , Bello Ibrahim O , Kamorudeen Ramat T , Adekola Saheed A
Published: July 2023

Objectives: Recent molecular studies show that breast cancer (BC) is a heterogeneous disease, and several molecular changes may accumulate over time to influence treatment response. As a result, employing reliable molecular biomarkers to monitor these modifications may help deliver personalised treatment. However, this may be unrealistic in the resource-limited parts of the world. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the expression pattern of hormone receptors and p53 tumour suppressor using immunohistochemistry (IHC) in BC compared to the traditional tumour grade. Methods: In total, 205 cases were investigated, and the Modified Bloom-Richardson score system was adopted in grading the tumours. The tissue sections of the cases were stained with specific primary antibodies at dilutions of 1:60 for oestrogen receptors (ER) and progesterone receptors (PR), 1:350 for the human epidermal growth factor (HER-2/neu) and 1:50 for p53. Results: Invasive ductal carcinoma of no-specific type (n = 190, 92.7%) was predominant and grade II tumour (n = 146, 71.2%) was the most frequent. Hormone receptors ER (n = 127) and PR (n = 145) had 62.0% and 70.7% positive cases, respectively; 34.1% (n = 70) were positive for HER-2/ neu, while 76.1% (n = 156) were positive for p53. Significant associations between Nottingham grade and expression patterns of ER (P <0.01), PR (P <0.001), HER-2/neu (P <0.001) and p53 (P = 0.001) were observed. Conclusion: Nottingham grade had a high degree of concordance with the patterns of expression of hormone receptors, HER- 2/neu and p53, suggesting that it may play an important role in connection with the predictive and prognostic biomarkers for BC.
Keywords: Breast Cancer; HER-2/neu; Heterogeneity; Hormone Receptor; Oncoprotein p53.
Islam, Muslims and 2020 #EndSARS Protests in Nigeria
Authors: Afolabi Khalidu Adewale
Published: July 2023

The 2020 #EndSARS is a youth-enthusiastic social movement in Nigeria against brutality and inhuman excesses of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad unit of the Nigerian Police Force. The protest movement started on social media and transmited to spatio-temporal platforms as numerous Nigerian youths were scattered on major streets and landmarks of the country to express their dissatisfaction with the operations and methods of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS). The protest was held by youths across different tribes, races and religions (with Muslims inclusive.) Just as the movement continued to increase, the participation of Nigerian Muslim youths in the protest became entwined in controversies as young Nigerian Muslim intellectuals debated the permissibility and impermissibility of protest for an ideal Muslim regardless of the circumstances. Numerous studies have examined protests, rebellions, uprisings, and coup d’états amongst other political issues affecting democracy, but they hardly study protests in the light of Islam and Muslims. This paper therefore seeks to explore this gap with a qualitative research by revisiting the history of Islamic civilization in the first few decades of Islam, approaching some Sharī‘ah principles and rereading the sensitive Islamic texts on obedience to authority in the context of contemporary realities surrounding the Nigerian Muslim ’Ummah. The paper concludes that while a protest is typically detestable under Islamic polity, it may rob Islam of its essence if such an opinion is upheld for Nigerian Muslims on 2020 #EndSARS, without considering the social, political, and constitutional factors influencing the movement in Nigeria.
Understanding the mechanism of red light-induced melatonin biosynthesis facilitates the engineering of melatonin-enriched tomatoes
Authors: Zhang Yang , Zhang Zixin , Zhang Xin , Chen Yuting , Jiang Wenqian , Zhang Jing , Wang Jiayu , Wu Yanjun , Wang Shouchuang , Yang Xiao , Liu Mingchun
Published: July 2023

Melatonin is a functionally conserved broad-spectrum physiological regulator that exists in most biological organisms in nature. Enrichment of tomato fruit with melatonin not only enhances its agronomic traits but also provides extra health benefits. In this study, we elucidate the full melatonin biosynthesis pathway in tomato fruit by identification of novel biosynthetic genes that encode caffeic acid O-methyltransferase 2 (SlCOMT2) and N-acetyl-5-hydroxytryptamine-methyltransferases 5/7 (SlASMT5/7). We further revealed that red light supplement has significantly enhanced melatonin content in tomato fruit. This induction relies on the “serotonin—N-acetylserotonin—melatonin” biosynthesis route via the SlphyB2-SlPIF4-SlCOMT2 module. Based on the regulatory mechanism, we targeted the binding motif of SlPIF4 in the promoter of SlCOMT2 to design the gene-editing strategy and significantly enhanced the production of melatonin in tomato fruit. Our study provides a good example of how the understanding of plant metabolic pathways responding to environmental factors can guide the engineering of new health-promoting food.
Trends in medically serious suicide attempts before and after the COVID-19: a four-year retrospective analysis (2018-2022)
Authors: Beneria Anna , Marte Luis , Quesada-Franco Marta , García-González Sara , Restoy Damià , Pérez-Galbarro Citlalli , Santesteban Olga , Ramos Rosa , Ramos-Quiroga Josep Antoni , Braquehais María Dolores
Published: July 2023

Background
Suicide has become a first-order public health concern after the negative impact of COVID-19 on the general population’s mental health. Several studies have analyzed the trends in suicide attempts (SA) before and after the onset of the pandemic, but few studies focus on the impact of the pandemic on medically serious suicide attempts (MSSA).
Methods
Participants were 396 hospitalized individuals ≥ 16 years old who made MSSA identified retrospectively through a review of e-medical records between 2018 and 2022 ("pre-COVID-19" and “COVID” periods). The two groups were compared on sociodemographic and clinical variables using Chi-square or Exact Fisher’s tests for categorical variables and a Mann-Whitney test for continuous variables. To study the variation in MSSA over time, MSSA were aggregated monthly. Joinpoint regression analyses were used to assess time trends.
Results
A sample of 161 MSSA patients, 80 women and 81 men, were selected from 396 admissions after a suicide attempt (SA) in the four years (n = 169 pre-COVID period vs. n = 199 COVID period). Sixty-eight patients with MSSA were admitted during the first period, and 93 during the COVID period. MSSA patients were more likely to be admitted to an intensive care unit during the COVID period than during the pre-COVID period (OR = 3.4620; CI 95%=1.7305–6.9260).
Conclusions
This study highlights the need for research on suicide risk during and after crisis periods, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides valuable knowledge on the incidence of SA needing hospitalization, MSSA, and highly severe MSSA for four years before and after the pandemic onset.
Homoharringtonine, a novel senotherapeutic, mitigates diet- and age-associated obesity and insulin resistance
Authors: Sung Hoon-Ki , Kim Eok-Cheon , Jung Han-Byul , Cha Hye-Na , Patel Yash , Lee Ju Hee , Choi Minah , Park Yu-kyoung , Park Soyoung , Kim Il-Kug , Pickel Lauren , Shin Min-Gyeong , Kim Jae-Ryong , Park So-Young
Published: July 2023

The accumulation of senescent cells in white adipose tissue (WAT) is closely associated with the functional decline of WAT and plays a causal role in the pathogenesis of metabolic diseases. Therefore, the elimination of senescent cells in WAT holds promise for the treatment and prevention of age-related metabolic diseases. Using a drug-repositioning strategy for 2,150 clinically applied compounds, we discover that homoharringtonine (HHT), an FDA-approved anti-leukemic drug, manifests senotherapeutic activity in senescent human dermal fibroblasts and murine and human preadipocytes in vitro with minimal cytotoxicity on young, healthy cells. HHT treatment prevents diet- or age-induced metabolic abnormalities in mice through improved WAT function and reduced WAT inflammation by targeting senescent adipocytes and preadipocytes. Moreover, HHT treatment attenuates age-associated phenotypes of human adipose tissue. Importantly, we found that HHT treatment promotes healthspan in mouse model of physiological aging. Our study provides evidence of the novel senotherapeutic potential of HHT in age- and obesity-related metabolic dysfunctions.
Mapping farmer vulnerability to target interventions for climate-resilient agriculture: science in practice
Authors: Prasad Pooja , Gupta Parth , Belsare Hemant , Mahendra Chirag M. , Bhopale Manasi , Deshmukh Sudhanshu , Sohoni Milind
Published: July 2023

Farmers in dryland regions are highly vulnerable to rainfall variability. This vulnerability is unequal, as it is mediated by biophysical and social factors. Implementing policies for climate resilience requires identification of farmers who are most vulnerable to extreme events like dry spells. We develop a novel approach by conceptualizing dry spell vulnerability at the farm scale in terms of monsoon crop water deficit. Using inputs of weather, terrain, soil properties, land-use-land-cover, crop properties, and cadastral maps, our tool models an hourly soil water balance at 30 m × 30 m resolution and maps the crop water deficit under rainfed conditions. This is a good indicator of the relative sensitivity of farmers to dry spells and allows prioritization of interventions within the focus region. Our tool, developed and deployed within the Maharashtra State Project on Climate-Resilient Agriculture, is iteratively calibrated and refined. We present the result of one such iteration where 72% of cases were found to have an agreement between the modelled output and farmers' perception of dry spell-induced crop water stress. Our work demonstrates how vulnerability to climate hazards may be mapped at micro-scales to assist policy makers in targeting interventions in ecologically fragile regions with high rainfall variability.
Effectiveness of Contextualized Micro-lessons in the Acquisition of College English Vocabulary
Authors: Guo Ziyu , Liu Zexu , Ge Shan , Li Yunfei
Published: July 2023

Traditional vocabulary teaching focuses on the pronunciation, form, and meaning of words, without taking into account the context of vocabulary learning. This approach tends to make the learning process monotonous and results in low student interest and efficiency. On the other hand, contextualized teaching and learning enables students to grasp the spelling, meaning, usage, and collocation of vocabulary within specific contexts. In this study, contextualized vocabulary micro-lessons have been applied in College English teaching to examine their effectiveness in enhancing vocabulary learning. The findings reveal that, following a semester of vocabulary micro-lesson learning, there has been some improvement in students' average vocabulary scores, with a 22% increase in the proportion of high-scoring students. Furthermore, results from a questionnaire survey indicate that 84% of students believe that contextualized vocabulary micro-lessons not only enhance their interest in vocabulary learning, but also improve the overall effectiveness of vocabulary acquisition.
Hedgehog inhibitors for basal cell carcinoma: real-world treatment patterns
Authors: Ruiz Emily
Published: July 2023

This video presents a study of Hedgehog pathway inhibitor real-world treatment patterns in patients with basal cell carcinoma.
Zmiany cen na międzynarodowym rynku oleistych w okresie upowszechnia się odmian zmodyfikowanych genetycznie
Authors: Rembeza Jerzy
Published: July 2023

W artykule przedstawiono zmiany na międzynarodowym rynku oleistych w okresie upowszechniania odmian zmodyfikowanych genetycznie. Pomimo odmiennych regulacji krajowych rynku GMO poziom obrotów międzynarodowych oleistymi szybko wzrastał. Stwierdzono jednak osłabienie związków przyczynowych pomiędzy europejskimi cenami oleistych a cenami soi w USA.
TOTAL LUNG COLLAPSE TREATED WITH EFFECTIVE PHYSIOTHERAPY AND PHARMACOTHERAPY
Authors: Kacker Rishabh , Manchanda Jay , Rani Harshita , Gupta Krishna Bihari , Roohani Urooj
Published: July 2023

Acute mucus plugging causing lung collapse is an emergency associated with increased mortality specially in patients with impaired cough reflex. Bronchoscopic interventions are often required in emergency to relieve the patient however mechanical percussive chest physiotherapies may be helpful. We discuss a case of a patient who developed respiratory distress rapidly; a chest radiograph revealed right lung atelectasis suggesting acute mucus plugging, confirmed by HRCT thorax. Bedside chest physiotherapy was started along with preparing for bronchoscopy. Clinical improvement was observed. Chest x-ray was repeated before going for bronchoscopy which revealed resolution of collapse hence procedure was not done. Our case illustrates the utility of chest physiotherapy and mucolytics in resolving the lung collapse due to acute mucus plugging in an urgent scenario in high-risk patients with recent history of head and neck surgery