bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kemampuan Pemahaman Konsep Matematis Siswa dalam Menyelesaikan Soal pada Relasi dan Fungsi
Authors: Rismawati Melinda , Hutagaol Anita Sri Rejeki , Andau Veronika , Yopita Yopita
Published: February 2023

The purpose of this study was to analyze the achievement of each indicator that measures the mathematical understanding ability of high school students in the learning of Relations and Functions. This research is a qualitative descriptive study that seeks to describe students' mathematical understanding abilities. The subjects of this study were 10th Grade students in SMAN 2 Sintang which consisted of 30 students. The data collection method used is a matter of test material relations and functions. Based on the results of the study, it can be concluded that the level of ability of students in high school mathematics subjects is as follows: there is 1 student who scores below 50, there are 3 students who score between 51 and 60, there are 8 students who score between 61 and 70, there are 9 students scored between 71 and 80, there were 9 students who scored 81 and above. The perfect score was achieved by 30 students in the first question number. All partisipants got different results, the first indicator of students getting the fulfillment of the indicator of ability to understand concepts with very good categories, the second indicator of the fulfillment of indicators of understanding ability concept with sufficient category and the third indicator students get the fulfillment of the indicator of ability to understand concepts with very poor category. It can be said that students still have difficulty in solving problems in the form of distinguishing examples from non-examples and solving problems using concepts when solving problems.
Penerapan Metode Pembelajaran Project Based Learning Menurut Kurikulum Prototipe untuk Pembelajaran Matematika yang Bermakna
Authors: Bell Windi Kristiato Yohanis , Dirgantoro Kurnia Putri Sepdikasari
Published: February 2023

Most students think that the hardest subject to understand is math. It happened when the student did not get the meaning of doing math. It was made worse by the covid situation, students more and did not get any value. Even though the government had provided curriculum and lesson method options to be held in class, still it can be maximized to create meaningful math lessons. Therefore, this research focuses on the application of the Project-Based Learning (PjBL) method based on a prototype curriculum to make math lessons more meaningful. The research method that will be used is descriptive qualitative. Students must get meaningful math lessons to find the greatness of God by doing math in their daily lives. Finally, students also glorify God. The research result is, PjBL based on the prototype curriculum method can help make learning mathematics more meaningful. The writer suggests for schools, hold training on using PjBL based on the curriculum prototype method, for teachers to apply this method in abstract topics, and for the next researcher to research the application of the PjBL method based on another curriculum.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Urinary Tract Infections: Is There an Issue and Does It Matter?
Authors: Moir Hannah
Published: February 2023

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) has increased substantially among community-acquired uropathogens that cause urinary tract infections (UTI), limiting the availability of effective oral antibiotic treatments.

This review includes coverage of an expert-led Learning Lounge, symposium session, and several poster presentations, that took place between 20th–22nd October 2022 as part of IDWeek2022 in Washington, D.C., USA.

An immersive Learning Lounge, sponsored by GSK, opened with Keith Kaye, Department of Medicine, Rutgers–Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, New Jersey, USA, who illuminated the concerns of AMR in community-acquired UTIs, delivering contemporary surveillance data, and outlined how in vitro data may translate into practical advice. This led fittingly to Erin McCreary, Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pennsylvania, USA, who enquired whether enough is being done in clinical practice regarding community-acquired infections, highlighting the importance of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS), and galvanising the audience to adapt healthcare settings to the changing landscape.

The scientific programme also included three data-rich posters that showcased Kaye’s surveillance data on Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae co-resistance, along with the geographical distribution of K. pneumoniae. An insightful poster by Claire Trennery, Value Evidence Outcomes, GSK, Brentford, UK, considered the patient perspective of UTI symptoms in defining antibiotic treatment success, and two posters presented by Rodrigo Mendes, JMI Laboratories, North Liberty, Iowa, USA, examined in vitro global surveillance data of emerging antimicrobial treatments.
Fractional Excretion of Survivin, Extracellular Matrix Metalloproteinase Inducer, and Matrix Metalloproteinase 7 in Children with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Bargenda Agnieszka , Musiał Kinga , Zwolińska Danuta
Published: February 2023

Background: Epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) is defined as a transformation of tubular epithelial cells into mesenchymal ones. These cells migrate through the extracellular matrix and change into active myofibroblasts, which are responsible for excessive matrix deposition. Such changes may lead to tubular dysfunction and fibrosis of the renal parenchyma, characteristic of chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, there are no data on potential EMT markers in children with CKD. The aim of our study was to assess the usefulness of fractional excretion (FE) of survivin, E-cadherin, extracellular matrix metalloproteinase inducer (EMMPRIN), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)7, and transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGF-β1) as potential markers of CKD-related complications such as tubular damage and fibrosis.

Methods: Forty-one pre-dialysis children with CKD Stages 3–5 and 23 age-matched controls were enrolled in the study. The serum and urine concentrations of analysed parameters were assessed by an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay test.

Results: Tubular reabsorption of all analysed parameters was >99% in the control group. All FE values rose significantly in children with CKD, yet they remained <1% in the case of E-cadherin and TGF-β1. The highest FE values in CKD children were those of survivin, EMMPRIN, and MMP7: >1%.

Conclusions: FE of the examined markers may become a useful tool in the assessment of tubular dysfunction during the course of CKD. The FE of survivin, EMMPRIN, and MMP7 warrant further research as potential independent markers of kidney-specific EMT.
New Insights into Iron Metabolism and Deficiency
Authors: Mughal Tabasum
Published: February 2023

The symposium provided an overview of the prevalence of iron deficiency and the associated disease burden in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Prof Kai-Uwe Eckardt gave an overview of the prevalence of iron deficiency in patients with CKD not undergoing dialysis and addressed the challenge of diagnosing iron deficiency in this patient population based on the definitions currently used. Prof Tomas Ganz then reviewed the pathophysiology of iron metabolism, and explained the complex interplay of hepcidin in making iron available for erythropoiesis. The symposium concluded with a presentation from Prof Jolanta Małyszko who reviewed the methods of determining iron status among patients with CKD and compared data on the benefits and risks of intravenous (IV) and oral iron therapy.
Characteristics of Addition of Activated Carbon and Bentonite Clay Catalysts in the Pyrolysis of Polyethylene Terephthalate Plastic Waste
Authors: Kamal Dianta Mustofa
Published: February 2023

The increase in the use of plastic results in an increase and accumulation of the volume of plastic waste which causes environmental problems, because plastic is an inorganic material that is very difficult to decompose in nature. This research was conducted to utilize Polyethylene Terephthalate (PETE) plastic waste into liquid fuel by pyrolysis method using a catalyst in order to increase the yield of liquid products and the quality of the liquid fuel produced. The research method is carried out by making a simple reactor to obtain liquid fuel, after the product is produced, the yield is calculated, and the density, viscosity, and calorific value are tested. The results of this study prove that the use of bentonite clay catalyst produces a higher yield of about 4.1% to 6.7% than the use of activated carbon catalyst with a yield of 21.74% and a heating value ranging from 10572 to 10860 cal/ g. Likewise, the density and viscosity of the product are still classified as meeting the quality standards of commercial fuel oil (BBM).
Pengaruh Variasi Dimensi Sirip Pada Displacer Sistem Pendingin Mesin Stirling Menggunakan Energi Surya Terkonsentrasi
Authors: Achyak Moch. Zainul , Suwandono Purbo , Soebiyakto Gatot
Published: February 2023

Energy needs in Indonesia are increasing day by day due to population growth and economic growth. To meet the increasing energy needs, it is necessary to develop a variety of alternative energies such as: biomass, solar energy, wind energy, water energy, which are still few that utilize One of the machines that use renewable energy is the Stirling motor. A stirling motor is a type of motor that has an external combustion engine that does not require much maintenance and does not emit a lot of pollutants because it only requires a source of thermal energy to run it. In other words, solar energy can also be utilized. The method developed is the use of solar energy which is concentrated by a parabolic reflector to the hot cylinder of the Stirling engine to convert heat energy into motion energy. The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of variations of several fin dimensions and variations in the number of fins on a displacer with aluminum material. This study uses an experimental method to describe the performance of the stirling engine prototype using various dimensions of cooling fins and variations in the number of fins. The results showed that the gamma stirling engine using 6 fins, and a diameter of 38 mm, showed the best results with a time of 43 minutes with an intensity of solar radiation of 188.2 W/m² to drive the stirling engine with a speed of 189 rpm and a torque of 0.87 N. mm. The difference in temperature produced in the hot cylinder and cold cylinder is 115˚C with a thermal efficiency of 44.13%.
Pengaruh orientasi arah serat dan waktu curing terhadap kekuatan tarik komposit serat sabut kelapa dengan resin epoxy.
Authors: Rizza Muhammad Akhlis , Gieraldy Putra Calvin Refdino
Published: February 2023

Perkembangan teknologi komposit yang semakin maju menyebabkan kebutuhan material. komposit semakin meningkat di bidang perindustrian, Salah satu jenis komposit yang banyak dikembangkan saat ini adalah komposit serat alam. Keuntungan yang dimiliki oleh serat alam (Natural Fiber) adalah jumlahnya berlimpah, proses pembuatan yang mudah dan aman, biaya yang terjangkau, dan tidak mencemari lingkungan. Salah satu serat alam yang akan dijadikan penelitian adalah serat sabut kelapa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk

menyelidiki dan mengetahui variasi arah serat dan variasi lama waktu curing dari komposit sabut kelapa terhadap kekuatan tarik. Bahan yang digunakan dalam pembuatan komposit adalah resin epoxy dan serat sabut kelapa. Pembuatan komposit dilakukan dengan metode hand lay-up. Spesimen uji

komposit berpenguat serat sabut kelapa dipotong sesuai standar ASTM D3039 untuk specimen uji tarik. Variabel penelitian ini adalah Orientasi arah serat dan variasi lama waktu yang berbeda. Orientasi arah serat yang digunakan adalah serat searah dan serat acak lalu parameter yang kedua adalah variasi lama waktu curing yang berbeda yaitu 0 menit, 10 menit, 30 menit, dan 50 menit dengan temperature yang sama yaitu 100C, dengan cara spesimen dipanaskan meggunakan oven listrik, kemudian dilakukan uji tarik dengan Universal Testing Machine.
Solid-liquid equilibria in relevant subsystems of LiBr-NaBr-KBr-MgBr2-CaBr2-H2O system at 298.15 K
Authors: Cui Ruizhi , Peng Changwei , Nie Guoliang , Sang Shihua , Ren Hongbao , Li Wu
Published: February 2023

In view of the composition characteristics of lithium, calcium and bromine rich in Nanyishan oil and gas field brine of western Qaidam Basin, Qinghai Province, as well as based on the results reported in relevant literature, the phase equilibrium relationship of ternary system LiBr-CaBr2-H2O at 298.15 K was studied by isothermal dissolution equilibrium method. The equilibrium solid phase crystallization regions, as well as the compositions of invariant point, in phase diagram of this ternary system were clarified. On basis of the above ternary system research, the stable phase equilibria of quaternary systems (LiBr-NaBr-CaBr2-H2O, LiBr-KBr-CaBr2-H2O and LiBr-MgBr2-CaBr2-H2O), as well as quinary systems (LiBr-NaBr-KBr-CaBr2-H2O, LiBr-NaBr-MgBr2-CaBr2-H2O and LiBr-KBr-MgBr2-CaBr2-H2O) were further carried out at 298.15 K. According to the above experimental results, the corresponding phase diagrams at 298.15 K were drawn, which revealed the phase relationship of each component in solution and the law of crystallization and dissolution, and meanwhile summarized changing trends. The research results of this paper lay a foundation for further research on the multitemperature phase equilibria and thermodynamic properties of lithium and bromine containing high-component brine system in later stage, and also provide basic thermodynamic data for guiding the comprehensive development and utilization of this oil and gas field brine resource.
A case report of sudden cardiac arrest and torsade de pointes induced by the second-generation tyrosine kinase inhibitor dasatinib combined with fluconazole
Authors: Yuan Yuting , Wang Chunjian , Yao Hongying
Published: February 2023

A-41-year-old man diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) survived dasatinib + fluconazole drug-induced long QT syndrome, sudden cardiac arrest, and torsade de pointes. Drug features and interaction jointly contributed to the whole process. Therefore, appropriate attention to drug interaction and close ECG monitoring are highly recommended for hospitalized patients, especially for those undergoing multi-drug regimens.
Cord blood myostatin concentrations by gestational diabetes mellitus and fetal sex
Authors: Huang Rong , Kibschull Mark , Briollais Laurent , Pausova Zdenka , Murphy Kellie , Kingdom John , Lye Stephen , Luo Zhong-Cheng
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Myostatin is a member of the transforming growth factor β superfamily, and is mainly secreted from skeletal muscle. Animal studies have demonstrated that deficiency in myostatin promotes muscle growth and protects against insulin resistance. In humans, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects fetal insulin sensitivity. Females are more insulin resistant and weigh less than males at birth. We sought to assess whether cord blood myostatin concentrations vary by GDM and fetal sex, and the associations with fetal growth factors.

Methods

In a study of 44 GDM and 66 euglycemic mother-newborn dyads, myostatin, insulin, proinsulin, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-1, IGF-2 and testosterone were measured in cord blood samples.

Results

Cord blood myostatin concentrations were similar in GDM vs. euglycemic pregnancies (mean ± SD: 5.5 ± 1.4 vs. 5.8 ± 1.4 ng/mL, P=0.28), and were higher in males vs. females (6.1 ± 1.6 vs. 5.3 ± 1.0 ng/mL, P=0.006). Adjusting for gestational age, myostatin was negatively correlated with IGF-2 (r=-0.23, P=0.02), but not correlated with IGF-1 (P=0.60) or birth weight (P=0.23). Myostatin was strongly correlated with testosterone in males (r=0.56, P<0.001), but not in females (r=-0.08, P=0.58) (test for difference in r, P<0.001). Testosterone concentrations were higher in males vs. females (9.5 ± 6.4 vs. 7.1 ± 4.0 nmol/L, P=0.017), and could explain 30.0% (P=0.039) of sex differences in myostatin concentrations.

Discussion

The study is the first to demonstrate that GDM does not impact cord blood myostatin concentration, but fetal sex does. The higher myostatin concentrations in males appear to be partly mediated by higher testosterone concentrations. These findings shed novel insight on developmental sex differences in insulin sensitivity regulation relevant molecules.
Preliminary study on the efficacy of rituximab in the treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy: A single-centre experience
Authors: Chen Ping , Mao Min , Wang Chendan , Zhang Xu , Zhao Xiaoyu , Gao Yuanyuan , Luo Yankun , Zhou Yun
Published: February 2023

Objective

To investigate the efficacy of rituximab in the treatment of idiopathic membranous nephropathy (IMN).

Methods

A total of 77 patients with IMN diagnosed in both our hospital and other hospitals were included in this study; the patients were divided into two groups: a treatment-naïve group (n = 19) and a refractory/relapsed group (n = 58). The clinical data of the patients, including urine examination, blood test, safety evaluation and efficacy evaluation results, were analysed retrospectively. The changes in clinical biochemical indexes and adverse reactions were compared between the two groups before and after treatment, and the clinical efficacy of rituximab (RTX) in the treatment of primary IMN and refractory recurrent membranous nephropathy was evaluated.

Results

Of the 77 patients included in this study, the average age was 48 years, and there was a male-to-female ratio of 61:16. There were 19 cases in the initial treatment group and 58 cases in the refractory/relapse group. The 24-hour urine protein quantification, cholesterol, B cell count and M-type phospholipase A2 receptor (PLA2R) results in the 77 patients with IMN after treatment were all lower than those before treatment, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). Serum albumin was higher than before treatment, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The total remission rate in the initial and refractory/relapsed treatment groups was 84.21% and 82.76%, respectively. There was no statistical difference in the total remission rate between the two groups (P > 0.05). During treatment, nine patients (11.69%) experienced infusion-related adverse reactions, which were relieved rapidly after symptomatic treatment. The anti-PLA2R antibody titre of the refractory/relapsed group was significantly negatively correlated with serum creatinine (r = −0.187, P = 0.045) and significantly correlated with 24-hour urine protein (r = −0.490, P < 0.001). There was a positive correlation and a significant negative correlation with serum albumin (r = −0.558, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Regardless of whether RTX is used as an initial therapy or refractory/relapsed membranous nephropathy, most patients with IMN have complete or partial remission after RTX treatment, with mild adverse reactions.
Frequency and clinical characteristics of hypophysitis and hypopituitarism in patients undergoing immunotherapy – A systematic review
Authors: Jacques Juliana Prudêncio , Valadares Luciana Pinto , Moura Adriana Castelo , Oliveira Maria Regina Fernandes , Naves Luciana Ansaneli
Published: February 2023

Objective

To describe the frequency of hypophysitis and hypopituitarism in cancer patients who are undergoing antineoplastic treatment with immunotherapy, as well as to describe the clinical, epidemiological, and demographic characteristics of these patients.

Methods

A systematic search of the literature in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, ClinicalTrials.gov and Cochrane Controlled Register of Trials took place on May 8 and 9, 2020. Randomized and nonrandomized clinical trials, cohort studies, case-control studies, case series and case reports were included.

Results

A total of 239 articles were obtained, in which 963 cases of hypophysitis and 128 cases of hypopituitarism were found in a treated population of 30,014 individuals (3.20% and 0.42% of the evaluated population, respectively). In the cohort studies, the incidence of hypophysitis and hypopituitarism ranged from 0% to 27.59% and from 0% to 17.86%, respectively. In the non-randomized clinical trials, the incidence of hypophysitis and hypopituitarism ranged from 0% to 25% and from 0% to 14.67%, and in randomized clinical trials from 0% to 16.2% and from 0% to 33.33%. The most common hormonal changes were in the corticotrophic, thyrotrophic and gonadotrophic axes. The main magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were enlargement of the pituitary gland and enhanced contrast uptake. The main symptoms presented by patients with hypophysitis were fatigue and headache.

Conclusion

The present review reported a frequency of hypophysitis and hypopituitarism of 3.20% and 0.42%, respectively, in the evaluated population. The clinical-epidemiological characteristics of patients affected by hypophysitis were also described.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42020175864.
Remnant cholesterol is independently asssociated with an increased risk of peripheral artery disease in type 2 diabetic patients
Authors: Song Yi , Zhao Ying , Bai Xiangli , Cheng Wenzhuo , Wang Li , Shu Meng , Shu Yan , Zhang Liyin , Jin Si
Published: February 2023

Background

Remnant cholesterol (RC) has been correlated with a higher risk of atherosclerosis. It has been confirmed that in the general population, an elevated RC level is related to a 5-fold higher risk of peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Diabetes is one of the strongest risk factors for PAD development. However, the association between RC and PAD in the specific population of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has not been investigated. Herein, the correlation was investigated between RC and PAD in T2DM patients.

Methods

In the retrospective study, the hematological parameter data of 246 T2DM patients without PAD (T2DM - WPAD) and 270 T2DM patients with PAD (T2DM - PAD) was collected. Differences in RC levels between the two groups were compared, and the association between RC and PAD severity was examined. Multifactorial regression was used to determine whether RC was a significant contributor to the development of T2DM - PAD. The diagnostic potential of RC was tested using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

The RC levels in T2DM - PAD individuals were considerably greater than in T2DM - WPAD individuals (P < 0.001). RC had a positive correlation with disease severity. Further, multifactorial logistic regression analyses found that elevated RC levels were a major contributor to T2DM - PAD (P < 0.001). The area under the curve (AUC) of the RC for T2DM - PAD patients was 0.727. The cut-off value of RC was 0.64 mmol/L.

Conclusion

The RC levels were higher in T2DM - PAD patients, and were independently linked with its severity. Diabetic patients with RC levels > 0.64 mmol/L had an elevated risk of developing PAD.
Overheating fault alarming for compact insulated busways in buildings by gas sensing
Authors: Xiong Hu , Li Jiayuan , Li Wenpei , Jiang Xiaoguang , Xiang Bin , Liu Zhixiong
Published: February 2023

Addressing the overheating fault detection and alarming of insulated busways in buildings, a system based on sensing volatile gases generated by the thermal degradation of the busduct insulation layer was proposed. By monitoring the concentration of volatile gases in the environment, the overheating fault of the busducts can be found early. The thermal degradation process of the busway insulating layer is analyzed, and the pyrolysis characteristic gas at low temperature is studied. The experimental platform has been built, by which the relation between the concentration of volatile gases and temperature of the insulated layer has been studied. By testing, the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) is proposed as the basis for judging the overheating fault in the alarming system. With the collected samples for training and testing, the AdaBoost classifier is used to identify the overheating fault. Finally, the design of the overheating fault alarming system is given.
Effects of dynamic characteristics of a pipe network on indoor temperature of households
Authors: Chen Yadong , Wang Xiaoxue , Yang Hua , Duan Runze , Li Shaoxiong
Published: February 2023

District heating has always been regarded as a convenient and environmentally friendly heating method. However, the district heating process involves a considerable amount of wasted energy. To improve the operational strategies of heating networks and heating quality, reduce energy waste, promote the sustainable development of resources and cities, it is necessary to investigate the dynamic characteristics of pipe networks. This paper describes the dynamic characteristics of a pipe network in which the intermittent operation of the primary pipe network were adjusted. The effects of the dynamic characteristics of the pipe network on the indoor temperature of households are numerically analyzed. When the primary network stops and the secondary network continues working, the indoor temperature begins to decrease, slowly at first, and then more quickly. The indoor temperature of households in the system remains unchanged for a short period before starting to drop with the increase of the time. It takes about 150–245 min for the indoor temperature in the heating system to drop to 16°C. The smaller the room area, the larger the area of the envelope structure, and the faster the room temperature drops. The higher the intermittent heating temperature, the longer it takes for the indoor temperature to drop to 16°C. An intermittent heating temperature of 5°C or above ensures that every household in the heating system retains an indoor temperature above 16°C after 2 h.
A strategy for improving the SHEPWM commutation speed of CSI through hybrid switches
Authors: Wang Weiqi , Xia Xiaoting , Rui Shuling , Meng Xiangjian , Zhang Yumin
Published: February 2023

High-power current source inverters (CSI) usually operate at a low switching frequency to reduce switching loss. To suppress low-order harmonics and simplify filter design, the selective harmonic elimination pulse width modulation (SHEPWM) technique is a feasible common modulation strategy in industrial applications. This paper proposes an operational strategy that uses an H7 current source inverter (H7-CSI) with hybrid switches to perform the SHEPWM technique. On the basis of retaining the conventional H6 inverter bridge, the commutation speed of the CSI is improved by an additional shunt-connected high-performance power switch. The proposed scheme solves the problem that the CSIs built with low-speed switches (such as GTOs) may have difficulty for implementing the setting pulse widths of null states, while further reducing the switching losses at an acceptable cost. In addition, mitigating the influence of overlap-time by optimizing the driving signal of the H6 converter bridge. Finally, simulation and experiments have verified the effectiveness of the proposed CSI scheme.
Blood transcriptome responses to PFOA and GenX treatment in the marsupial biomedical model Monodelphis domestica
Authors: Cao Wenqi , Horzmann Katharine , Schemera Bettina , Petrofski Myra , Kendall Trisha , Spooner Jennifer , Rynders Patricia E. , VandeBerg John L. , Wang Xu
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are widely used in industrial and consumer products. Due to their environmental persistence and bioaccumulation, PFASs can be found in the blood of humans and wild animals all over the world. Various fluorinated alternatives such as GenX have been developed to replace the long-chain PFASs, but there is limited information about their potential toxicity.

Methods:The current study developed blood culture protocols to assess the response to toxic compounds in the marsupial, Monodelphis domestica. After whole-blood culture conditions were tested and optimized, changes in gene expression in response to PFOA and GenX treatment were assessed.

Results: More than 10,000 genes were expressed in the blood transcriptomes with and without treatment. Both PFOA and GenX treatment led to significant changes in the whole blood culture transcriptomes. A total of 578 and 148 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were detected in the PFOA and GenX treatment groups, 32 of which overlapped. Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that DEGs involved in developmental processes were upregulated after PFOA exposure, while those enriched for metabolic and immune system processes were downregulated. GenX exposure upregulated genes associated with fatty acid transport pathways and inflammatory processes, which is consistent with previous studies using rodent models.

Discussion: To our knowledge, this study is the first to investigate the effect of PFASs in a marsupial model. The findings provide supportive evidence for significant transcriptomic alterations, suggesting that this mammalian model may provide a mechanism for exploring the potential toxicity of PFOA and GenX.
Determinants of Implanon discontinuation among women who use Implanon at Debre Berhan town public health institutions in Northeast Ethiopia: a case–control study
Authors: Chekole Moges Sisay , Zikie Delelegn Tsegaye , Wogie Fitie Girma , Taye Birhan Tsegaw , Kibiret Desta Mekete , Silesh Zerihun Mulualem , Moltot Kitaw Tebabere , Ali Mohamed Ahmed , Legasu Temesegen Desalegn , Assefa Kibir Temesgen , Lemma Demisse Tesfanesh
Published: February 2023

Background

Discontinuation of the most effective methods of contraception such as Implanon has now become a worldwide problem, which is significantly associated with mistimed and unwanted pregnancies and unsafe abortion, leading to an increased risk of maternal and child mortality and morbidity. However, studies on factors associated with Implanon discontinuation in Ethiopia, particularly in the area under this study, are limited. Therefore, this study aims to identify the determinants of Implanon discontinuation among women who used Implanon at Debre Berhan town public health institutions.

Methods and materials

A facility-based unmatched case–control study was conducted among 312 study participants (78 cases and 234 controls) from February 1, 2021, to April 30, 2021. The study participants were selected by using a systematic random sampling method for controls, and cases were selected consecutively until the required sample size was reached, during the data collection period. The data were collected by using a structured face-to-face interviewer-administered questionnaire and entered into Epidata version 4.6 and transferred to SPSS version 25 for analysis. Variables with a p-value of <0.25 in the bivariable analysis were entered into the multivariable logistic regression model. In the final model variables, a p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant at a 95% confidence interval (CI) and the strength of association was measured using an adjusted odds ratio (AOR).

Results

In this study, the determinants of Implanon discontinuation were the following: women who had no formal education (AOR: 3.57; 95% CI, 1.62–7.87), who had no children (AOR: 2.8; 95% CI, 1.50–5.17), who had no counseling about side effects (AOR: 2.43;95% CI, 1.30–4.55), who had no discussion with their partner (AOR: 2.7; 95% CI, 1.34–5.46), who had no follow-up appointment (AOR:2.81; 95% CI, 1.54–5.12), and who had side effects (AOR:1.91; 95% CI, 1.13–3.53).

Conclusion and Recommendations

Women's educational status, having no children during the insertion of Implanon, received no counseling about the side effects of insertion, no follow-up appointment, experiencing side effects, and no discussion with a partner were determinants of Implanon discontinuation. Hence, healthcare providers and other health sector stakeholders should provide and strengthen pre-insertion counseling, and follow-up appointments to increase the retention rates of Implanon.
Knowledge mapping of image-guided tumor ablation and immunity: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Shen Hui , Wang Lin , Zhang Yi , Huang Guangliang , Liu Baoxian
Published: February 2023

Background

Various ablation techniques have been successfully applied in tumor therapy by locally destroying tumor. In the process of tumor ablation, a large number of tumor cell debris is released, which can be used as a source of tumor antigens and trigger a series of immune responses. With the deepening of the research on the immune microenvironment and immunotherapy, researches exploring tumor ablation and immunity are continuously published. However, no research has systematically analyzed the intellectual landscape and emerging trends for tumor ablation and immunity using scientometric analysis. Therefore, this study aimed to conduct a bibliometric analysis to quantify and identify the status quo and trend of tumor ablation and immunity.

Methods

Data of publications were downloaded from the Web of Science Core Collection database. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to conduct bibliometric analysis to evaluate the contribution and co-occurrence relationship of different countries/regions, institutions and authors in the field, and to determine the research hotspots in this field.

Results

By searching in the database, a total of 3531 English articles published between 2012 and 2021 were obtained. We observed rapid growth in the number of publications since 2012. The two most active countries were China and the United States, with more than 1,000 articles. Chinese Academy of Sciences contributed the most publications (n = 153). Jibing Chen and Xianzheng Zhang might have a keen interest in tumor ablation and immunity, with more publications (n = 14; n = 13). Among the top 10 co-cited authors, Castano AP (284 citations) was ranked first, followed by Agostinis P (270 citations) and Chen Qian (246 citations). According to the co-occurrence and cluster analysis, the results indicated that the focus of research was “photothermal therapy” and “immune checkpoint blockade”.

Conclusions

In the past decade, the neighborhood of tumor ablation domain immunity has been paid more and more attention. Nowadays, the research hotspots in this field are mainly focused on exploring the immunological mechanism in photothermal therapy to improve its efficacy, and the combination of ablation therapy and immune checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Spatial and temporal conversion of nitrogen using Arthrobacter sp. 24S4–2, a strain obtained from Antarctica
Authors: Liu Yixuan , Zhang Yumin , Huang Yudi , Niu Jingjing , Huang Jun , Peng Xiaoya , Peng Fang
Published: February 2023

According to average nucleotide identity (ANI) analysis of the complete genomes, strain 24S4–2 isolated from Antarctica is considered as a potential novel Arthrobacter species. Arthrobacter sp. 24S4–2 could grow and produce ammonium in nitrate or nitrite or even nitrogen free medium. Strain 24S4–2 was discovered to accumulate nitrate/nitrite and subsequently convert nitrate to nitrite intracellularly when incubated in a nitrate/nitrite medium. In nitrogen-free medium, strain 24S4–2 not only reduced the accumulated nitrite for growth, but also secreted ammonia to the extracellular under aerobic condition, which was thought to be linked to nitrite reductase genes nirB, nirD, and nasA by the transcriptome and RT-qPCR analysis. A membrane-like vesicle structure was detected in the cell of strain 24S4–2 by transmission electron microscopy, which was thought to be the site of intracellular nitrogen supply accumulation and conversion. This spatial and temporal conversion process of nitrogen source helps the strain maintain development in the absence of nitrogen supply or a harsh environment, which is part of its adaption strategy to the Antarctic environment. This process may also play an important ecological role, that other bacteria in the environment would benefit from its extracellular nitrogen source secretion and nitrite consumption characteristics.
Pathogen-triggered changes in plant development: Virulence strategies or host defense mechanism?
Authors: Kong Feng , Yang Li
Published: February 2023

Plants, as sessile organisms, are constantly exposed to pathogens in nature. Plants rely on physical barriers, constitutive chemical defenses, and sophisticated inducible immunity to fight against pathogens. The output of these defense strategies is highly associated with host development and morphology. Successful pathogens utilize various virulence strategies to colonize, retrieve nutrients, and cause disease. In addition to the overall defense-growth balance, the host-pathogen interactions often lead to changes in the development of specific tissues/organs. In this review, we focus on recent advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms of pathogen-induced changes in plants’ development. We discuss that changes in host development could be a target of pathogen virulence strategies or an active defense strategy of plants. Current and ongoing research about how pathogens shape plant development to increase their virulence and causes diseases could give us novel views on plant disease control.
Exploring the role of Sichuan Baoning vinegar microbiota and the association with volatile flavor compounds at different fermentation depths
Authors: Liu Aiping , Ou Yixue , Shu Haojie , Mou Tianyu , Li Qin , Li Jianlong , Hu Kaidi , Chen Shujuan , He Li , Zhou Jiang , Ao Xiaolin , Yang Yong , Liu Shuliang
Published: February 2023

Cereal vinegar is usually produced through solid-state fermentation, and the microbial community plays an important role in fermentation. In this study, the composition and function of Sichuan Baoning vinegar microbiota at different fermentation depths were evaluated by high-throughput sequencing combined with PICRUSt and FUNGuild analysis, and variations in volatile flavor compounds were also determined. The results revealed that no significant differences (p > 0.05) were found in both total acid content and pH of vinegar Pei collected on the same day with different depths. There were significant differences between the bacterial community of samples from the same day with different depths at both phylum and genus levels (p < 0.05), however, no obvious difference (p > 0.05) was observed in the fungal community. PICRUSt analysis indicated that fermentation depth affected the function of microbiota, meanwhile, FUNGuild analysis showed that there were variations in the abundance of trophic mode. Additionally, differences in volatile flavor compounds were observed in samples from the same day with different depths, and significant correlations between microbial community and volatile flavor compounds were observed. The present study provides insights into the composition and function of microbiota at different depths in cereal vinegar fermentation and quality control of vinegar products.
Emerging role of miRNAs in the regulation of ferroptosis
Authors: Mahmoudi-Lamouki Reza , Kadkhoda Sepideh , Hussen Bashdar Mahmud , Ghafouri-Fard Soudeh
Published: February 2023

Ferroptosis is a kind of cell death which has distinctive features differentiating it from autophagy, necrosis and apoptosis. This iron-dependent form of cell death is described by an increase in lipid reactive oxygen species, shrinkage of mitochondria and decrease in mitochondrial cristae. Ferroptosis is involved in the initiation and progression of many diseases and is regarded as a hotspot of investigations on treatment of disorders. Recent studies have shown that microRNAs partake in the regulation of ferroptosis. The impact of microRNAs on this process has been verified in different cancers as well as intervertebral disc degeneration, acute myocardial infarction, vascular disease, intracerebral hemorrhage, preeclampsia, hemorrhagic stroke, atrial fibrillation, pulmonary fibrosis and atherosclerosis. miR-675, miR-93, miR-27a, miR-34a and miR-141 have been shown to affect iron metabolism, antioxidant metabolism and lipid metabolism, thus influencing all pivotal mechanisms in the ferroptosis process. In the current review, we summarize the role of microRNAs in ferroptosis and their involvement in the pathetiology of malignant and non-malignant disorders.
Calcium influx, oxidative stress, and apoptosis induced by TRPV1 in chronic myeloid leukemia cells: Synergistic effects with imatinib
Authors: Maggi Federica , Morelli Maria Beatrice , Aguzzi Cristina , Zeppa Laura , Nabissi Massimo , Polidori Carlo , Santoni Giorgio , Amantini Consuelo
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Calcium flux is the master second messenger that influences the proliferation–apoptosis balance. The ability of calcium flux alterations to reduce cell growth makes ion channels interesting targets for therapy. Among all, we focused on transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, a ligand-gated cation channel with selectivity for calcium. Its involvement in hematological malignancies is poorly investigated, especially in the field of chronic myeloid leukemia, a malignancy characterized by the accumulation of immature cells.

Methods: FACS analysis, Western blot analysis, gene silencing, and cell viability assay were performed to investigate the activation of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1, by N-oleoyl-dopamine, in chronic myeloid leukemia cell lines.

Results: We demonstrated that the triggering of transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 inhibits cell growth and promotes apoptosis of chronic myeloid leukemia cells. Its activation induced calcium influx, oxidative stress, ER stress, mitochondria dysfunction, and caspase activation. Interestingly, a synergistic effect exerted by N-oleoyl-dopamine and the standard drug imatinib was found.

Conclusion: Overall, our results support that transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 activation could be a promising strategy to enhance conventional therapy and improve the management of chronic myeloid leukemia.
The effects of white matter hyperintensities on MEG power spectra in population with mild cognitive impairment
Authors: Torres-Simon Lucia , Cuesta Pablo , del Cerro-Leon Alberto , Chino Brenda , Orozco Lucia H. , Marsh Elisabeth B. , Gil Pedro , Maestu Fernando
Published: February 2023

Cerebrovascular disease is responsible for up to 20% of cases of dementia worldwide, but also it is a major comorbid contributor to the progression of other neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s disease. White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are the most prevalent imaging marker in cerebrovascular disease. The presence and progression of WMH in the brain have been associated with general cognitive impairment and the risk to develop all types of dementia. The aim of this piece of work is the assessment of brain functional differences in an MCI population based on the WMH volume. One-hundred and twenty-nine individuals with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) underwent a neuropsychological evaluation, MRI assessment (T1 and Flair), and MEG recordings (5 min of eyes closed resting state). Those participants were further classified into vascular MCI (vMCI; n = 61, mean age 75 ± 4 years, 35 females) or non-vascular MCI (nvMCI; n = 56, mean age 72 ± 5 years, 36 females) according to their WMH total volume, assessed with an automatic detection toolbox, LST (SPM12). We used a completely data-driven approach to evaluate the differences in the power spectra between the groups. Interestingly, three clusters emerged: One cluster with widespread larger theta power and two clusters located in both temporal regions with smaller beta power for vMCI compared to nvMCI. Those power signatures were also associated with cognitive performance and hippocampal volume. Early identification and classification of dementia pathogenesis is a crucially important goal for the search for more effective management approaches. These findings could help to understand and try to palliate the contribution of WMH to particular symptoms in mixed dementia progress.
Development and validation of risk prediction model for refeeding syndrome in neurocritical patients
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Sheng-Xiang , Chen Shu-Fan , Yu Tao , Tang Yun
Published: February 2023

Background

The incidence of refeeding syndrome (RFS) in critically ill patients is high, which is detrimental to their prognoses. However, the current status and risk factors for the occurrence of RFS in neurocritical patients remain unclear. Elucidating these aspects may provide a theoretical basis for screening populations at high risk of RFS.

Methods

A total of 357 patients from January 2021 to May 2022 in a neurosurgery ICU of a tertiary hospital in China were included using convenience sampling. Patients were divided into RFS and non-RFS groups, based on the occurrence of refeeding-associated hypophosphatemia. Risk factors for RFS were determined using univariate and logistic regression analyses, and a risk prediction model for RFS in neurocritical patients was developed. The Hosmer-Lemeshow test was used to determine the goodness of fit of the model, and the receiver operator characteristic curve was used to examine its discriminant validity.

Results

The incidence of RFS in neurocritical patients receiving enteral nutrition was 28.57%. Logistic regression analyses showed that history of alcoholism, fasting hours, Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II (APACHE II) scores, Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) scores, low serum albumin, and low baseline serum potassium were risk factors of RFS in neurocritical patients (p < 0.05). The Hosmer-Lemeshow test showed p = 0.616, and the area under the ROC curve was 0.791 (95% confidence interval: 0.745–0.832). The optimal critical value was 0.299, the sensitivity was 74.4%, the specificity was 77.7%, and the Youden index was 0.492.

Conclusion

The incidence of RFS in neurocritical patients was high, and the risk factors were diverse. The risk prediction model in this study had good predictive effects and clinical utility, which may provide a reference for assessing and screening for RFS risk in neurocritical patients.
Helicobacter pylori infection induces gastric precancerous lesions and persistent expression of Angpt2, Vegf-A and Tnf-A in a mouse model
Authors: Malespín-Bendaña Wendy , Alpízar-Alpízar Warner , Figueroa-Protti Lucía , Reyes Ledis , Molina-Castro Silvia , Une Clas , Ramírez-Mayorga Vanessa
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Helicobacter pylori colonizes the gastric mucosa and induces chronic inflammation.

Methods

Using a mouse model of H. pylori-induced gastritis, we evaluated the mRNA and protein expression levels of proinflammatory and proangiogenic factors, as well as the histopathological changes in gastric mucosa in response to infection. Five- to six-week-old female C57BL/6N mice were challenged with H. pylori SS1 strain. Animals were euthanized after 5-, 10-, 20-, 30-, 40- and 50-weeks post infection. mRNA and protein expression of Angpt1, Angpt2, VegfA, Tnf-α, bacterial colonization, inflammatory response and gastric lesions were evaluated.

Results

A robust bacterial colonization was observed in 30 to 50 weeks-infected mice, which was accompanied by immune cell infiltration in the gastric mucosa. Compared to non-infected animals, H. pylori-colonized animals showed an upregulation in the expression of Tnf-A, Angpt2 and VegfA at the mRNA and protein levels. In contrast, Angpt1 mRNA and protein expression was downregulated in H. pylori-colonized mice.

Conclusion

Our data show that H. pylori infection induces the expression of Angpt2, Tnf-A and Vegf-A in murine gastric epithelium. This may contribute to the pathogenesis of H. pylori-associated gastritis, however the significance of this should be further addressed.