bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WHY DID PEOPLE ARGUE ON TWITTER? SCRUTINIZING ARGUMENTATION STRATEGIES USED IN THE TWEETS OF #InternationalWomensDay
Authors: Isnaini Nur Alfiana
Published: December 2023

<span style="font-size: 10.0pt; font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; color: #0e101a; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA;">The phenomenon reflected in the tweets used in #InternationalWomensDay as the campaign has provided many people to argue freely on social media platform. Giving an argumentation will conceal the hidden problems spread in the society. Several public problems will be left without any attention. Therefore, this study aims to scrutinize argumentation strategies used by Twitter users in tweets using the #InternationalWomensDay using the Critical Discourse Analysis approach. This present research employs argumentation strategies theory proposed by Teun A. Van Dijk (2000) as well. The data were collected from the tweets using #InternationalWomensDay. In addition, the descriptions of the data were displayed qualitatively. Overall, the results reveal that from the data analysis, the number game strategies became the most frequently used strategy in tweets using the #InternationalWomensDay and the fewest strategy used in this hashtag was pseudo-ignorance. In summary, every tweet made on Twitter using a particular hashtag tends to have a certain purpose.
ANALISIS TINDAK TUTUR DIREKTIF PADA DAFTAR PUTAR VIDEO PEMBELAJARAN BAHASA INDONESIA QUIPPER VIDEO
Authors: Nabila Jaroatin , Qutratu'ain Maulida Zahra , Chaerunnissa Chaerunnissa , Yulianto Muhamad Diky , Utomo Asep Purwo Yudi
Published: December 2023

The study of directive speech acts underlies this study. Speech acts used to direct other people or state what the speaker wants are known as directive speech acts. Directive speech acts serve a number of functions, including commands, requests, invitations, advice, criticism, and prohibitions, etc. The objective of this study was to discover and describe numerous types of directive speech acts in Quipper Vidio Indonesian Language Learning videos based on the functions of commands, requests, invitations, advice, criticism, and prohibitions, etc. This study was designed with a qualitative descriptive method which shows where there is evidence of directive speech acts and explaining them based on existing facts in line with the explanation to enable to produce a presentation as it is. The study data collected was obtained from five video sources on YouTube. Based on the results of this study, there are 25 command functions, 6 request functions, 36 invitation functions, 15 advise functions, 0 criticism functions, and 1 prohibition function. The objectives of this study are to improve the theory of language development by studying the form of directive acts in the learning objects to be studied. It is expected that the study will expand readers' perspectives on directive speech acts as well as classifying the functions of directive speech acts in the Quipper Vidio Indonesian Language Learning playlist.
THE SOCIAL FACTOR OF SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION ON ADULT LEARNER
Authors: Samosir Sri Aulia , Daulay Sholihatul Hamidah , Niswa Khairun
Published: December 2023

Second language learning for adults is an activity to help adults in acquiring a second language is done consciously. The learning process for an adult second language is unfounded educator considerations but based on interests learners. Educational implications for practical adults is a necessary understanding of characteristics of adult education, principles, methods, and learning techniques second language for people mature. The purpose of this study is to find out the social factor in the classroom influence second language acquisition in adult learners. The researcher found there are classroom situations, namely: Teachers' strategy, students’ personality include (Motivation, introversion/ extroversion, self-esteem, inhibition, risk-taking, anxiety), and learning the English language as a part of a group.
CONSTRUCTING GAMBLING REALITY: A CRITICAL MULTIMODAL ANALYSIS ON ONLINE GAMBLING ADVERTISEMENTS
Authors: Juanda Mochammad Rizki , Kurniawan Eri , Hermawan Budi
Published: December 2023

This study aims to reveal the ideology contained in online gambling advertisements that appear on social media. The data for this qualitative descriptive research was three online gambling advertisements that were taken randomly on Instagram social media at the hashtag #judionline on September 18, 2022. The analysis process was carried out by analyzing the signs on the ads using a triangular semiotic theory framework by Charles S. Pierce. The findings showed that the three online gambling advertisements that appear on Instagram have similarities and differences in the use of the signs to construct the reality presented on online gambling advertisements. The continuity between the signs in online gambling advertisements creates an impression that online gambling is a fun, profitable and promising activity for the audience. The researcher suggests that readers who find online gambling advertisements on social media should be more careful and critical in reading the information raised by advertisements so that they can avoid things that can cause losses.
ALIH KODE DAN CAMPUR KODE DALAM INTERAKSI PEMBELAJARAN BAHASA INGGRIS DI FAKULTAS PERTANIAN UNIVERSITAS TRUNOJOYO MADURA
Authors: Susylowati Eka , Alfisuma Meria Zakiyah , Romdlani M.Masqotul Imam
Published: December 2023

The purpose of the research is to describe code choice and code mixing in the interaction of learning English in Agriculture Faculty University of Trunojoyo Madura.  The reseach data included the code switching and code mixing of Agriculture students when learning English in the classroom. The data analysis use a contextual approach of Speaking by Dell Hymes. The result of the research showed that code switching used by the students in the Faculty of Agriculture, namely English and Indonesia, switching codes from English into Indonesia and vice versa, meanwhile code mixing from English into Inonesia, and mixed Indonesia into Javanese, mixed Javanese into English.
APPLICATION OF BAYESIAN REGULARIZATION FOR IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF ELECTRICAL ENERGY IN THE ELECTRICAL SUPPLY SYSTEM
Authors: Yagup Kateryna , Yagup Valery
Published: December 2023

The possibility of using neural networks in the field of the energy coefficients correction of a power supply system with uneven load in phases is being studied. This need is justified by the fact, that the calculation of the necessary parameters of the symmetry-compensating device was previously based on the Nelder – Mead search optimization method. Search optimization performing is computationally expensive, takes long computation times, and may calculate anomalous values. The article develops the idea of using technology for predicting the parameters of a symmetry-compensating device, based on neural network modeling using Bayesian regularization. For a given set of initial data, the best selected configuration turned out to be a neural network of two layers, implemented in the MATLAB package using the machine learning tool Neural Network Toolbox. The network input parameters are a set of tuples, consisting of load values in each of the three phases of the power supply system, which are resistive-inductive in nature. There are six input quantities in total (load resistance and inductance values in each of the three phases) and all their values are different, which causes current asymmetry in the network and reactive power. The target matrix is formed from tuples, consisting of three values, which are the parameters of the symmetrical compensating device, calculated by the optimization method, in such a way as to compensate reactive power and to balance currents in the network. The number of data tuples, required to train a neural network was determined empirically. During the experiments, the optimal number of neurons in the neural network was also revealed. The use of the generated neural network to calculate the parameters of the symmetry-compensating device determined approximate solutions is comparable in accuracy to the values, found by optimization methods. With the help of the generated neural system, adequate quasi-solutions for calculating the parameters of the symmetry-compensating device were determined, which, in case of calculation, using the optimization method, led to anomalous values, that didn’t optimize the energy coefficients of the power supply system to the required extent. Also, such neuropredictions protect the system from receiving excessive high parameters of symmetry compensating device, which can be obtained with an optimization approach.
EFFICIENCY OF LOSSLESS DATA COMPRESSION ALGORITHM MODIFICATION
Authors: Klyatchenko Yaroslav , Holub Volodymyr
Published: December 2023

The current level of development of information technologies causes a rapid increase in the amount of information stored, transmitted and processed in computer systems. Ensuring the full and effective use of this information requires the use of the latest improved algorithms for compaction and optimization of its storage. The further growth of the technical level of hardware and software is closely related to the problems of lack of memory for storage, which also actualizes the task of effective data compression. Improved compression algorithms allow more efficient use of storage resources and reduce data transfer time over the network. Every year, programmers, scientists, and researchers look for ways to improve existing algorithms, as well as invent new ones, because every algorithm, even if it is simple, has its potential for improvement. A wide range of technologies related to the collection, processing, storage and transmission of information are largely oriented towards the development of systems in which graphical presentation of information has an advantage over other types of presentation. The development of modern computer systems and networks has influenced the wide distribution of tools operating with digital images. It is clear that storing and transferring a large number of images in their original, unprocessed form is a rather resource-intensive task. In turn, modern multimedia systems have gained considerable popularity thanks, first of all, to effective means of compressing graphic information. Image compression is a key factor in improving the efficiency of data transfer and the use of computing resources. The work is devoted to the study of the modification of the data compression algorithm The Quite OK Image Format, or QOI, which is optimized for speed for the compression of graphic information. Testing of those implementations of the algorithm, which were proposed by its author, shows such encouraging results that it can make it competitive with the already known PNG algorithm, providing a higher compression speed and targeting work with archives. The article compares the results of the two proposed modifications of the algorithm with the original implementation and shows their advantages. The effectiveness of the modifications and the features of their application for various cases were evaluated. A comparison of file compression coefficients, which were compressed by the original QOI algorithm, with such coefficients, which were obtained as a result of the application of modifications of its initial version, was also carried out.
Team Approach: Extremity Soft Tissue Sarcoma
Authors: Morris Carol D. , Banks Lauren B. , Fitzhugh Valerie A. , McGill Kevin C. , Deville Curtiland
Published: December 2023

» Synovial sarcoma is a soft tissue sarcoma that most commonly presents in the extremity in a periarticular location.

» As the history and physical examination of patients with synovial sarcoma can overlap considerably with those of patients with non-oncologic orthopedic conditions, it is important that orthopedic surgeons maintain a high level of suspicion when caring for patients with extremity masses.

» Soft tissue sarcomas are best treated using a team approach. Early recognition and referral to a multidisciplinary sarcoma team are crucial to ensure the best clinical outcome for the patient.
Contribution of environmental determinants to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes Mellitus in a life-course perspective: a systematic review protocol.
Authors: Mengue Yannick Wilfried , Audate Pierre-Paul , Dubé Jean , Lebel Alexandre
Published: December 2023

Background: Prevention policies of the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) focus solely on individual healthy lifestyle behaviours; while, an increasing number of research recognizes involvement of environmental determinants such as, cultural norms of land management and planning in urban or rural areas, local foodscape, built environment, and neighbourhood deprivation. Precise knowledge of this relationship has therefore become necessary in order to propose prevention strategy that integrates public health and spatial planning. Unfortunately, problems of consistency and synthesis of methods and results in this field of research limit the development of preventive strategies. The aim of this systematic review is to refine knowledge about the relationship between the risk of developing T2DM in adulthood and long-term exposure during childhood or teenage years to its main environmental déterminants.
Methods: This protocol is outlining according the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic review and Meta-Analysis Protocols tools (PRISMA-P). Three information specialists from Laval University libraries were consulted for the research strategy. Electronic databases (PubMed Central, Embase Elsevier, CINAHL Plus, Web of Science, EBESCO host) and grey literature (theses, dissertations and research reports) will be used for data collection. Based on the Population, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome and Study Design approach, the Covidence application will be used to store the collected data, to perform the selection and extraction. Studies publised from January 1, 2000, to December 31, 2022 in English or French, used quantitative data about individuals aged 18 and over, that report on T2DM (based on medical screening or the use of administrative health data or a concordance study published on self-reported T2DM.), environmental determinants (e.g. cultural norms of land management and planning in urban or rural areas, local foodscape, built environment, and neighbourhood deprivation) and their association (Involving only risk estimators) will be included. Then, study quality and risk of bias will be conducted according to the Effective Public Health Practice Project criteria and ratings.
Discussion: This systematic review will contribute, in this field of research, to refine current knowledge and developing more efficient intersectoral interventions in land use, regional planning and public health.
Systematic review registration:PROSPERO CRD42023392073
Unusually large invasive seeds are spared by rodents in a Patagonian forest
Authors: Campagna Maria Sofia , Barberá Ivan , Morales Juan Manuel , Morán-López Teresa
Published: December 2023

Seed predation by rodents can act as a barrier, limiting the establishment of exotic species. Predation rates of exotic seeds may depend on their attractiveness, determined by their traits and how different they are from natives. Additionally, at the naturalization stage of the invasion process, exotic seeds may escape post-dispersal predation because they are uncommon in the community. To test these ideas, we assessed granivory in a Patagonian forest, where two species with contrasting seed sizes are naturalized. Rubus idaeus seeds are of similar size to native species, whereas Prunus cerasus seeds are four times larger. The relative abundance of their seeds within the landscape is low compared to native seeds. Throughout the fruiting season, we offered seeds from all species present in the community (native and exotics), whenever they were available in the landscape. To consider the effects of vegetation structure on rodent foraging behavior, we offered seeds in areas with or without understory cover. Seed size affected the probability of removal, with rodents preferentially foraging on those of intermediate sizes. Consequently, they strongly avoided large Prunus seeds, but removed Rubus seeds at similar rates to natives. Contrary to our expectations, seed abundance did not affect predation, and hence, rarity did not confer an advantage to exotic seeds. The presence of shrub cover increased 2.3 times the removal rates compared to open areas. Concluding, the dissimilarity in seed size compared to native species and the presence of shrub cover influenced the predation pressure on exotic species within our community.
The Role of Forebody Topology on Aerodynamics and Aeroacoustics Characteristics of Squareback Vehicles using Computational Aeroacoustics (CAA)
Authors: Viswanathan Harish , Chode Kushal Kumar
Published: December 2023

This study investigates the influence of forebody configuration on aerodynamic noise generation and radiation in standard squareback vehicles, employing a hybrid computational aeroacoustics approach. Initially, a widely used standard squareback body is employed to establish grid-independent solutions and validate the applied methodology against previously published experimental data. Six distinct configurations are examined, consisting of three bodies with A-pillars and three without A-pillars. Throughout these configurations, the reference area, length, and height remain consistent, while systematic alterations to the forebody are implemented. The findings reveal that changes in the forebody design exert a substantial influence on both the overall aerodynamics and aeroacoustics performance of the vehicle. Notably, bodies without A-pillars exhibit a significant reduction in downforce compared to their A-pillar counterparts. For all configurations, the flow characteristics around the side-view mirror and the side window exhibit an asymmetrical horseshoe vortex with high-intensity pressure fluctuations, primarily within the confines of this vortex and the mirror wake. Side windows on bodies with A-pillars experience more pronounced pressure fluctuations, rendering these configurations distinctly impactful in terms of radiated noise. However, despite forebody-induced variations in pressure fluctuations impacting the side window and side-view mirror, the fundamental structure of the radiated noise remains relatively consistent. The noise pattern transitions from a cardioid-like shape to a monopole-like pattern as the probing distance from the vehicle increases.
MFNG promotes endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition mediated by the Notch signalling pathway during heart valve development
Authors: Yang Junjie , Wang Zhi , Zhou Yue , Jiang Shiwei , Qin Xiji , Xu Zhikang , Wang Yu , Zuo Mengying , Meng Zhuo , Chen Sun , Wang Qingjie , Wang Jian , Sun Kun
Published: December 2023

A fundamental event in the formation of heart valves involves the transformation of endocardial cells within the outflow tract (OFT) and atrioventricular canal (AVC) cushions through a process known as endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). Aberrant EndMT is a primary cause of congenital valvular malformations. Manic Fringe (MFNG) has been previously associated with cardiovascular development, although its role in heart valve development remains underexplored. In this study, we seek to enhance our understanding of MFNG's involvement in valve formation and its association with EndMT. Staining results of histological section revealed the expression of MFNG in the AVC and OFT during the E9.5-E11.5 period when EndMT takes place. Cellular data demonstrated that MFNG exerts a positive regulatory influence on the EndMT process, promoting endothelial cell migration by enhancing the activity of the Notch signalling pathway. MFNG knockdown mediated by antisense morpholino oligonucleotides(MO) injection caused abnormal heart development in zebrafish. Furthermore, through whole-exome sequencing (WES), we identified a heterozygous MFNG mutation in patients diagnosed with Tetralogy of Fallot-Pulmonary valve stenosis (TOF-PS). Cellular and molecular assays confirmed that this deleterious mutation reduced MFNG expression and hindered the EndMT process. In summary, our study verifies that MFNG plays a role in promoting EndMT mediated by the Notch signalling pathway during the development of heart valves. The MFNG deleterious variant induces MFNG loss of function, potentially elucidating the underlying molecular mechanisms of MFNG's involvement in the pathogenesis of congenital heart valve defects. These observations contribute to the current genetic understanding of congenital heart valve disease and may provide a potential target for prenatal diagnosis and treatment.
Neonicotinoid Insecticides and Their Characteristic Metabolites May Induce High Fasting Blood Glucose and Obesity in Human
Authors: Zhang Mingyue , Zhu Jing , Zheng Pei , Wei Cailv , Li Dehai , Wang Qian , Zhang Hua
Published: December 2023

Neonicotinoid insecticides (NEOs) find widespread application globally as a safeguard for agricultural production. While these pollutants exhibit toxicity towards non-target organisms and pose potential risks to human health, there is a noticeable dearth of studies documenting the adverse effects of neonicotinoid insecticides (NEOs) specifically in humans. In this study, the concentrations of six NEOs and their five metabolites were measured in the blood samples collected from the normal (n = 130) and obesity (n = 130) cohorts in South China. An evaluation was undertaken to examine the associations between the levels of target analytes and either fasting blood glucose (FBG) or the condition of being overweight. Results showed that the NEOs and their metabolites were frequently detected (63%–100%) in both cohorts, with median levels of 0.01–4.32 ng/mL. Discernible gender-related disparities were noted within the blood samples, manifesting as elevated concentrations of the majority of NEOs and their metabolites in females compared to males. In addition, there were positive correlations between the concentrations of IMIeq (imidacloprid equivalent, calculated using the relative potency factors of NEOs and their metabolites) and UF (a metabolite of dinotefuran) with FBG levels (3.28 ng/mL vs. 4.32 ng/mL for UF, and 34.6 ng/mL vs. 40.6 ng/mL for IMIeq). Moreover, significant associations were found between UF [odds ratio = 1.78, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.86–4.66, p < 0.01] and IMIeq (odds ratio = 1.66, 95% CI = 0.94–3.56, p < 0.01) concentrations and being overweight. Our findings indicated that human exposure to NEOs and their metabolites may induce high FBG and obesity. This study documented the profile of NEOs and their metabolites in the blood samples from the normal and obesity cohorts in South China for the first time.
Exploration of the importance of viable cells in skin micrograft for wound healing
Authors: Li Yuanjiaozi , Sakamoto Michiharu , Nakano Takashi , Zhao Qiannan , Dong Hang , Sawaragi Eiichi , Yamanaka Hiroki , Tsuge Itaru , Morimoto Naoki
Published: December 2023

Background:
Skin micrograft (MG) has been reported to promote tissue regeneration and is clinically used for intractable wounds. MG contains diverse cells and an extracellular matrix (ECM); however, the importance of the proliferative potential of MG cells for wound healing is not clear. Therefore, we investigated the wound healing-promoting effect of MG, in which the cells were inactivated using several methods.
Methods:
Skin MG was prepared from the skin of C57BL mice using Rigenera protocol, and then four types of MGs were prepared: Fresh-MG, HHP-MG (treated with high hydrostatic pressure of 200MPa for 10 min), LN-MG (treated with liquid nitrogen for 20 min), and Heat-MG (treated heat with 80℃ for 30 min). The outgrowth potential, growth factor content (basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), epidermal growth factor (EGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)), and in vitro cell proliferation-promoting potential were examined for each type of MG. For in vivo studies, MG was used to treat murine skin defects. The wound area, neoepithelial length, granulation tissue formation, and newly formed capillaries were evaluated on day 7.
Results:
All types of MGs, except for Heat-MG, contained bFGF, EGF and VEGF, promoted cell proliferation, and accelerated wound closure. In addition, the neoepithelial lengths in the HHP-MG and LN-MG groups were significantly longer than those in the Heat-MG and control groups. The area of granulation tissue, and the number and area of capillaries in the Fresh-MG, HHP-MG, and LN-MG groups were significantly larger than those in the control groups.
Conclusions:
The results confirmed that proliferative cells are not essential for the promotion of wound healing by MG. This effect was attenuated in the Heat-MG group, suggesting that soluble factors, such as growth factors, which are inactivated by heat, play an important role.
Association of extreme heat events with sleep and cardiovascular health: A scoping review
Authors: Ashe Nathan , Wozniak Sarah , Conner Malcom , Ahmed Rayan , Demetres Michelle R , Makarem Nour , Tehranifar Parissa , Nandakumar Rajalakshmi , Ghosh Arnab
Published: December 2023

BACKGROUND:
Extreme heat events (EHEs), driven by anthropogenic climate change, exacerbate the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the underlying mechanisms are unclear. Disturbances in sleep health, caused by excessive heat, may be one way EHEs increase the risk of incident or recurrent CVD. Our objective was to systematically review the empirical peer-reviewed literature on the relationship between EHEs, sleep health, and cardiovascular measures and outcomes, and narratively describe methodologies, evidence, and gaps in this area.
METHODS:
A comprehensive literature search was performed in the following databases from inception – June 2023: Ovid MEDLINE, Ovid EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science and The Cochrane Library. Studies retrieved were then screened for eligibility against predefined inclusion/exclusion criteria.
RESULTS:
Of the 2035 records screened, three studies met the inclusion criteria. Cardiovascular (CV) measures described included blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and HR variability (no CVD outcomes were described) and objective and subjective measurements of sleep health outcomes included sleep duration, calmness, ease of falling asleep, ease of awakening, freshness after awakening, and sleep satisfaction. Two studies were controlled trials, and one was a cohort study. During EHEs, individuals slept for shorter periods of time and less efficiently, with greater degrees of HR variability in two of the three studies lasting at most 1–2 days; BP (both systolic and diastolic) significantly decreased during EHEs in two of the studies. No formal assessment of a mediating relationship between EHE exposure, sleep outcomes, and the CV measures was undertaken.
CONCLUSIONS:
There is a paucity of data that examines the link between CVD, sleep, and extreme heat as a possible mechanism of elevated CVD risk during EHEs, despite a strong physiological rationale. Further research is needed to empirically test this relationship rigorously as EHEs become more frequent and their deleterious impacts of health increase.
Geo-Demographic and Socioeconomic Determinants of Diagnosed Hypertension among Urban Dwellers in Ibadan, Nigeria: A Community-based Study
Authors: Owolabi Mayowa , Taiwo Olalekan , Akinyemi Joshua , Adebayo Ayodeji , Popoola Oluwafemi , Akinyemi Rufus , Akpa Onoja , Olowoyo Paul , Okekunle Akinkunmi , Uvere Ezinne , Nwimo Chukwuemeka , Ajala Omotolani , Adebajo Olayinka , Ayodele Adewale , Ayodeji Salami , Arulogun Oyedunni , Olaniyan Olanrewaju , Walker Richard , Jenkins Carolyn , Ovbiagele Bruce
Published: December 2023

Background: The relationship between diagnosed high blood pressure (HBP) and proximity to health facilities and noise sources is poorly understood. We investigated the relationship between proximity to noise sources, sociodemographic and economic factors, and diagnosed HBP in Ibadan, Nigeria.
Methods: We investigated 13,531 adults from the African Rigorous Innovative Stroke Epidemiological Surveillance (ARISES) study in Ibadan. Using a Geographic Information System (GIS), the locations of healthcare facilities, pharmaceutical shops, bus stops, churches, and mosques were buffered at 100m intervals, and coordinates of persons diagnosed with HBP were overlaid on the buffered features. The number of persons with diagnosed HBP living at every 100m interval was estimated. Gender, occupation, marital status, educational status, type of housing, age, and income were used as predictor variables. Analysis was conducted using Spearman rank correlation and binary logistic regression at p<0.05.
Results: There was a significant inverse relationship between the number of persons diagnosed with HBP and distance from pharmaceutical shops (r=-0.818), churches (r=-0.818), mosques (r=-0.893) and major roads (r= -0.667). The odds of diagnosed HBP were higher among the unemployed (AOR=1.58, 95% CI: 1.11-2.24), currently married (AOR=1.45, CI: 1.11-1.89), and previously married (1.75, CI: 1.29-2.38). The odds of diagnosed HBP increased with educational level and age group.
Conclusion: Proximity to noise sources, being unemployed and educational level were associated with diagnosed HBP. Reduction in noise generation, transmission, and exposure could reduce the burden of hypertension in urban settings.
Ecological Impact of Artisanal Tin Mining in Butura, Plateau State, Nigeria
Authors: Zitta Wuyep Solomon , Samuel Dadiel , Simi Ogbole Alexandra , Musa Selzing Peter , Nentok Monday Seri
Published: December 2023

Artisanal tin mining is considered a necessary evil, but has the ability to boost the economy, reduce poverty, and create jobs and income. However, it is frequently unregulated, hence has a negative effect on the environment. Data were collected from mining sites for laboratory analysis and direct field observation. Random sampling technique was use to select four soil samples of 500 grams, two each for mined and unmined soils were collected within a depth of 0-15cm. These sampled soils were tested in the laboratory to determine their physio-chemical properties. Chi-square was used to evaluate the significant difference between soil from mined and unmined areas. Results showed that there is an increase in soil pH, EC, K, Na, Ca, Mg, EA, CEC, particles density, porosity and clay, and decrease in OC, OM, N, P, S, Silt, and sand of the soil properties. The findings revealed that mining activities caused severe ecological consequences on the environment which led to deforestation, soil erosion, loss of biodiversity and creation of abandoned mine pits and ponds that pose serious danger to humans. Many farmlands, grazing lands and forest reserve have been degraded as the result of artisanal mining, top soil has been removed which affect the fertility of the soil resulting in low crop yields. The chi-square analysis showed a significant relationship between artisanal tin mining and soil quality at 58% confident level. Therefore, this study recommends the use of best mining practices to safeguard the environment in the study area.
Spatial mapping of subcutaneous adipose tissue microenviounment in panniculitis: Unveiling novel immune signatures
Authors: Brüggen Marie-Charlotte , Ziadlou Reihane , Ameri Milad , Contassot Emmanuel , White Anna , Li Nick , Kolm Isabel , Kempf Werner , Traidl Stephan , Clemens Clara , Hafner Jürg , Akdis Cezmi , Maverakis Emanual
Published: December 2023

Panniculitis, characterized by inflammation of the subcutaneous adipose tissue, displays diverse clinical and dermatohistopathological phenotypes. However, the underlying pathomechanisms remain largely unknown, with limited studies pointing to a delayed-type III/IV hypersensitivity reaction. In the present study, we aimed to gain new insights into the pathogenesis of the two most common panniculitis subtypes, erythema nodosum (EN) and erythema induratum (EI), by exploring their cellular and molecular immune patterns. We analyzed deep lesional skin biopsies from EN and EI patients (n=16 per group) and healthy controls (n=6) using imaging mass cytometry (IMC) to map the leukocytic infiltrate. The IMC analysis revealed distinct cellular profiles for EN and EI. In both conditions, macrophages were the predominant immune cell type, exhibiting a shift towards an M1 phenotype compared to healthy controls. In EI, the M1 macrophages were particularly prominent and were noted to cluster with activated CD8+ T cells. Conversely, EN showed fewer inflammatory features and a larger B cell population. These cellular changes were supported by an overall strong type 1 immune signature on the mRNA level in both EN and EI. This was evidenced by the upregulation of NLR-, NFkB-, and inflammasome-signaling-pathway genes compared to healthy controls. The type 1 signature was more pronounced in EI than in EN. These findings challenge the current understanding of panniculitis. They point towards a key role of M1 macrophages in mediating both innate and adaptive immune responses in panniculitis.
Electrochemically Activated Histidine-tagged Flavoenzyme-mediated Biopseudocapacitor
Authors: Sung Suhwan , Jin Joon-Hyung
Published: December 2023

Polypeptides or enzyme proteins have specific functions depending on their unique three-dimensional structures. Active-site histidine or histidine tags in an enzyme protein can be used to fix an electrochemically active species to the enzyme and can be further used as an electroactive material for the electrode substrate of a faradaic supercapacitor, which is an energy storage device with high power density. Here, we introduce an enzyme-linked electric double-layer capacitor and a pseudocapacitor prepared by cyclovoltametrically intercalating histidine moieties of the linked enzymes with ferricyanide ions. Indium tin oxide (ITO) was employed as the electrode substrate for immobilization of histidine-tagged methyl tryptophan oxidase (HMTO). After attaching HMTO via amino-glutaraldehyde cross-linking chemistry, the resulting HMTO-ITO electrodes were further activated with ferricyanide. The approximate amount of HMTO immobilized on an ITO substrate of area 1.13 cm2 was 3.3 ± 0.46 µC, equivalent to 11.4 pmole (0.49 µg) of HMTO. The specific capacity of the biopseudocapacitor determined using cyclic voltammetry was 6.19 C g− 1 at a scan rate of 10 mV s− 1.
Association of novel DNAH11 and DNAH 5 variants with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia lead to male infertility
Authors: Tang Dongdong , Guo Senzhao , Chen Yuge , Yu Hui , Gu Meng , Geng Hao , Fang Jiajun , Wu Baoyan , Ruan Lewen , Li Kuokuo , Xu Chuan , Gao Yang , Tan Qing , Duan Zongliu , Wu Huan , Hua Rong , Guo Rui , Wei Zhaolian , Zhou Ping , Xu Yuping , Cao Yunxia , He Xiaojin , Sha Yanwei , Lv Mingrong
Published: December 2023

Background
Bi-allelic variants in DNAH11 and DNAH5 have been identified as causative factors in Primary Ciliary Dyskinesia, leading to abnormal respiratory cilia. Nonetheless, the specific impact of these variants on sperm flagellar and their involvement in male infertility remain elusive.
Methods
A collaborative effort involving two Chinese reproductive centers conducted a study with 975 unrelated infertile men. Whole-exome sequencing was employed for variant screening, and Sanger sequencing confirmed the identified variants. Morphological and ultrastructural analyses of sperm were conducted using Scanning Electron Microscopy and Transmission Electron Microscopy. Western Blot Analysis and Immunofluorescence Analysis were utilized to assess protein levels and localization. ICSI was performed to evaluate its efficacy in achieving favorable pregnancy outcomes for individuals with DNAH11/DNAH5 variants.
Results
The study identified seven novel variants in the DNAH11 gene in four subjects and two novel variants in the DNAH5 gene in one individual with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. These variants led to structural defects in sperm flagella, particularly affecting the outer dynein arms (ODAs) and adjacent structures. Two out of four individuals with DNAH11 variants achieved clinical pregnancies through ICSI. However, the patient carrying DNAH5 variants did not achieve a favorable pregnancy outcome.
Conclusions
The findings confirm the association between male infertility and bi-allelic deleterious variants in DNAH11/DNAH5, resulting in the aberrant assembly of sperm flagella and contributing to oligoasthenoteratozoospermia. Importantly, ICSI emerges as an effective intervention for overcoming reproductive challenges caused by DNAH11 gene variants.
Constipation and diarrhea's relationship with alcohol consumption in adult Americans: evidence from NHANES 2005-2010
Authors: Gong Zhuozhi , Li Teng , Du Yanyuan , Yan He , Xu Minhao , Lian Yue , Wei Wei , Liu Tao
Published: December 2023

Objective
The consumption of alcohol as a part of daily life influences our intestinal health, with both positive and negative effects. There is limited research on the constipation and diarrhea's relationship with alcohol. This study delves into the detailed relationship between fecal shape and alcohol consumption in American adults. Stool shape was categorized as constipation, normal, and diarrhea.
Methods
For this cross-sectional study, we selected a sample of 8829 adults aged 20 years and older from the 2005–2010 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Definitions for constipation, diarrhea, and bowel health were established using the Bristol Scale. Chronic constipation encompassed types 1 and 2; types 6 and 7 were categorized as diarrhea; and types 3, 4, and 5 were deemed indicative of bowel health. To investigate the association between stool shape and alcohol consumption, we employed univariate logistic regression models, multivariate logistic regression models, and multilevel linear regression models.
Results
The population with constipation exhibited a significantly lower drinking frequency compared to those with diarrhea and the normal subjects. Furthermore, drinking frequency was negatively correlated with the risk of constipation in women. Drinking frequency served as a protective factor for women experiencing constipation, but this association was not observed in men with constipation. Among individuals who consumed more than 12 drinks per year, the normal group was notably overrepresented in the constipated group. Individuals who consumed more than 5 drinks per day for a period were more prone to experiencing diarrhea, and this trend was more pronounced in women than in men. Additionally, the average number of drinks consumed in the past 12 months was significantly associated with diarrhea in women.
Conclusion
In summary, this study demonstrates a significant association between stool shape and alcohol consumption. Healthcare professionals can contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of patients by considering their lifestyle, and patients can proactively adjust their lifestyle to alleviate constipation or diarrhea.
Kidney outcomes are altered by preconception weight modulation in rodent mothers with obesity
Authors: Rodrigo Natassia , Chen Hui , Pollock Carol A , Glastras Sarah J
Published: December 2023

Obesity increases the risk of chronic kidney disease in the mother. We have previously demonstrated the benefits of preconception maternal weight loss on fertility and pregnancy outcomes in a mouse model of maternal obesity. In this study, we aimed to determine if preconception weight loss, either by diet modification or the glucose-like peptide 1 agonist liraglutide, improves maternal kidney outcomes in late gestation. C57BL/6 female mice were fed either a high-fat-diet (HFD) or a standard chow (control) diet for 8 weeks. To induce pre-pregnancy weight loss, HFD-fed dams were either switched to a chow diet pre-pregnancy (4 weeks before mating, HFD-C) or administered liraglutide (0.3mg/kg subcutaneous, for 4weeks) whilst continuing on HFD (HFD-L). Liraglutide was discontinued one week prior to mating. HFD-V mice continued on HFD, with saline injections. Finally, a group of HFD-fed dams were ‘diet switched’ to a chow diet after conception (i.e., post-conception, HFD-PC). Maternal body weight and glucose tolerance were measured at two time points: prior to pregnancy and during late gestation followed by blood, urine and kidney collection. Serum creatinine, urinary creatinine and albumin, and kidney tissue gene expression and protein were measured. In the preconception period, the HFD-L and HFD-C mothers had lower urine albumin: creatinine ratios (UACR) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) protein expression (both P < 0.005 vs HFD-V). At late gestation, the kidneys of HFD-V and HFD-PC dams had increased gene expression of insulin receptor and FAS (both P < 0.05) and higher UACR compared to controls (P < 0.01). In the HFD-PC group, the kidneys showed increased mRNA and protein expression of metabolic and oxidative stress markers (FAS, 8-OHdG vs control, P < 0.05, P < 0.0001 respectively). The preconception intervention groups with liraglutide, or diet change showed reduced renal oxidative stress markers (protein expression of 8-OHdG, P < 0.05 vs HFD), mRNA and protein expression of FAS (P < 0.05 vs HFD), protein expression of fibrosis markers (collagen IV, fibronectin vs HFD, P < 0.05), and UACR (P < 0.05 vs HFD). Preconception weight loss benefits maternal kidney health during pregnancy, superior to diet intervention once pregnancy is established. This study suggests that pre-pregnancy weight reduction is necessary to optimise kidney outcomes in maternal obesity.
Biomarkers of inflammation and cardiovascular risk in people with chronic obstructive respiratory disease
Authors: ESCOBAR-MONTALVO JUAN MANUEL , RODRÍGUEZ-ARTALEJO FERNANDO , LABACA IÑAKI GALÁN
Published: December 2023

Background: Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is associated with increased frequency and severity of chronic obstructive respiratory diseases (CORD). Objectives: to examine the association of CORD with MetS, inflammatory and cardiovascular biomarkers, and its combined effect on health status and cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Methods: a cross-sectional study of 11602 adults of ≥18 years participants in the Study on Nutrition and Cardiovascular Risk in Spain (ENRICA) was conducted. Biomarkers were obtained using standardized laboratory techniques. CORD was defined as a diagnosis of chronic bronchitis and/or asthma, MetS was defined according to the criteria of the International Diabetes Federation, and CVD as a diagnosis of myocardial infarction, heart failure, or stroke. The associations were evaluated using linear and logistic regression models, adjusting for potential confounding variables.
Results: prevalence of MetS in subjects with and without CORD was 26.9% and 23% respectively. CORD was associated with a higher frequency of MetS in <65 years (odds ratio[OR]=1.38; 95%CI:1.07;1.77), higher levels of leptin (21.12%; 95%CI: 6.68;37.50) and fibrinogen (3.79%; 95%CI:0.19;7.52) in ≥65 years, and in whole population with higher prevalence of central obesity (OR=1.30; 95%CI:1.06;1.59) and elevated C-reactive protein levels (17.75%; 95%CI:2.67;35.04). People with CORD, with and without MetS, had a worse health status, and a higher risk of CVD when coexisting with MetS.
Conclusions: CORD was associated with alterations in inflammatory and cardiovascular biomarkers, higher frequency of MetS in <65 years, poorer health status, and higher risk of CVD when coexisted with MetS.
Predictors of Clinical Cure and off-treatment HBsAg Reversion in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B receiving Peg-interferon-α-based Therapy
Authors: Liu Zhongwei , Liu Ming , Gong Hongmei , Li MaoShi , Wang Jing , Tan Zhaoxia , Wu Yi , Yang Yanlin , Deng Ying , Mao Qing
Published: December 2023

Background
Currently, pegylated interferon-α (Peg-IFN-α)-based antiviral therapy brings dawn to the clinical cure of chronic hepatitis B(CHB). Our aim was to investigate markers associated with clinical cure and off-treatment hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) reversion in CHB receiving Peg-IFN-α-based therapy.
Methods
In total, 101 patients with hepatitis B e antigen-negative CHB who were treatment-naive or nucleotide analogs(NAs) treated patients were enrolled, then they were all received Peg-IFN-α-based therapy. Hepatitis B core-related antigen (HBcrAg), HBsAg and hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) levels were examined dynamically and used to investigate the predictive value for HBsAg clearance and off-treatment reversion.
Results
Out of 101 patients, 41(40.59%) individuals achieved HBsAg clearance at the end of treatment (EOT). High baseline HBsAg (2.32 log10 IU/mL) combined with HBcrAg (3.90 log10 U/mL) was strongly associated with the HBsAg clearance (AUC = 0.714, P<0.001). The HBcrAg and HBsAg decline from baseline to week 12 showed good ability to predict HBsAg clearance (AUC = 0.807, P<0.001), while the HBsAg decline from week 12 to 24 were associated with HBsAg clearance (AUC = 0.745, P<0.001). A combination of HBcrAg < 3.80 log10 U/mL and HBsAb ≥ 51.50 IU/L at EOT had a negative predictive value of 85.71% for off-treatment HBsAg reversion (AUC = 0.840, P < 0.001).
Conclusions
HBcrAg and HBsAg can be used to predict clinical cure, while the HBcrAg and HBsAb were closely related to the off-treatment HBsAg reversion in patients with CHB receiving Peg-IFN-α-based therapy.
Disaster management of the coastal Cameroon Business City using a combined GIS-remote sensing and multicriteria decision-making approach
Authors: Aretouyap Zakari , Ghomsi Franck Eitel , Kana Janvier Domra , Tchato Sandra Celeste , Perilli Nicola , Nouck Philippe Njandjock
Published: December 2023

The Cameroon Business City (CBC), Douala, is the Cameroon’s city which has the highest urbanisation and demographic growth rate. It is located on the Atlantic banks. Its geographic features are major indicators of various potential disasters, with natural (geological, hydrological, oceanographic, meteorological, biological) and/or anthropogenic (mainly industrial) drivers to be adequately managed. Disaster management is a tedious and complex process involving an important number of criteria to be considered and assessed. It includes a wide range of tasks such as forecasting, monitoring, evacuation, relief, search and rescue, rehabilitation and reconstruction, that can be grouped into three phases: pre-disaster, during disaster and post-disaster operations. Rather than preparing disaster response, this paper investigates the risk reduction by analysing the vulnerability of the CBC to disasters. It is a matter of predicting disasters by safeguarding timely preparedness on concerned institutions, government agencies, non-government organisations (NGOs) and citizens. The objective of this paper is to combine geographic information system (GIS), remote sensing (RS) and analytical hierarchy process (AHP) for disaster prediction in the CBC. A set of maps (with key role in disaster assessment) are derived and processed from satellite data. In addition to other thematic maps dealing with ecological, environmental, biophysical, and socioeconomic features, the aforementioned maps are processed as layers in a GIS environment using AHP to demarcate and classify the CBC by level of landslide risk and a gathering zone in case of a tsunami. Policy perspectives are also formulated to the attention of the municipal authorities, NGOs, planners and civil engineers.