bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atuação do terapeuta ocupacional com pessoas que vivem com HIV/AIDS
Authors: Monteiro Eishila Alves , Barreto Katia Magdala Lima , Maranhão Luziana Carvalho de Albuquerque , Nascimento Luciana Silva do , Falcão Ilka Veras
Published: October 2024

As pessoas com HIV apresentam prejuízos à saúde e à funcionalidade, com impactos negativos em seu desempenho ocupacional. O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a atuação de terapeutas ocupacionais junto a pessoas que vivem com HIV/AIDS. Foi realizada uma revisão narrativa, em bases de literatura científica e periódicos brasileiros e latino-americanos de Terapia Ocupacional. Foram incluídos 13 artigos, entre 2003 e 2018, com mais publicações do Brasil e referentes a atividades de Terapia Ocupacional com adultos hospitalizados. O HIV/AIDS causa dificuldades físicas, cognitivas, emocionais, neurológicas e psicossociais, afetando o autocuidado, o lazer, as atividades escolares e laborais. Viver com o VIH/SIDA distancia as pessoas dos seus papéis profissionais e sociais. A Terapia Ocupacional visa restabelecer melhores condições para as atividades de vida diária, os cuidados de saúde e o enfrentamento de problemas sociais. O trabalho do terapeuta ocupacional explora estratégias com atividades artísticas e expressivas, em grupos, oficinas e atendimentos ambulatoriais ou hospitalares. O profissional atua, de acordo com as necessidades da clientela e do contexto, para estimular a reflexão e o empoderamento das pessoas com HIV/AIDS no reconhecimento de seus direitos, enfrentando a discriminação e as limitações de participação social. Os terapeutas ocupacionais também apoiam os familiares, a equipe escolar e a comunidade na interação e no respeito às pessoas com HIV/AIDS. Conclui-se que a intervenção da Terapia Ocupacional busca restaurar o desempenho ocupacional e a qualidade de vida, não só de quem vive com HIV/AIDS, mas de quem convive com essas pessoas.
Farmacovigilância e intervenção farmacêutica na prevenção de reações adversas a medicamentos em um hospital de Cascavel-Paraná
Authors: Silva Gabrielle Cristina Oliveira , Silva Claudinei Mesquita da , Peder Leyde Daiane de
Published: October 2024

Este estudo explora a importância da farmacovigilância para o gerenciamento de Reações Adversas a Medicamentos (RAMs), um problema significativo de saúde pública. Nos EUA, as RAMs são uma das principais causas de mortalidade, e no Brasil, a falta de dados ressalta a necessidade de uma abordagem proativa. O objetivo foi identificar RAMs em um hospital de grande porte em Cascavel-PR, utilizando o Método Trigger Tool, para demonstrar a importância da farmacovigilância na melhoria da qualidade dos cuidados de saúde e na prevenção de erros em internações subsequentes, evidenciando a necessidade de monitorar essas reações para evitar novos eventos adversos. Utilizando uma abordagem transversal, retrospectiva e observacional, foram analisados 243 prontuários de pacientes ao longo de 2023. Foram identificadas 26 RAMs, predominando em pacientes do sexo feminino e com menos de 60 anos. Os medicamentos associados foram Hidrocortisona (18 casos), Naloxona (4), Allegra (2) e Fenergan (2). As reações foram classificadas principalmente como prováveis, seguidas de possíveis, duvidosas e definidas. O sintoma mais comum foi prurido, e a especialidade com mais RAMs foi a Clínica Médica. A análise confirmou a eficácia do Método Trigger Tool para identificar RAMs, sublinhando a necessidade de métodos de farmacovigilância para uma visão mais detalhada das reações adversas. Os resultados destacam a importância da atuação proativa dos farmacêuticos clínicos na detecção e documentação de RAMs para garantir a segurança do paciente e prevenir eventos futuros. Recomenda-se expandir a pesquisa para outras instituições e realizar estudos multicêntricos para aprimorar as práticas de farmacovigilância.
PRAKTEK DIGITISASI KEARSIPAN DAN KEAMANAN INFORMASI: STUDI KASUS PADA WORKSHOP DIGITISASI KEARSIPAN ORGANISASI XYZ
Authors: Mardiati Wiwiet , Aminanto Erza
Published: October 2024

This research aims to describe records digitization practices at Organization XYZ and identify security issues that must be considered. Using a qualitative approach and case study method, data was collected through questionnaires, interviews and direct observation during a three-day workshop in Bogor. The research results show that although the records digitization process is going quite well, there are a number of challenges related to information security, including data integrity and accessibility. The use of appropriate technology, adequate training, and implementation of comprehensive security policies are the keys to improving the quality and security of the archives digitization process.
Impact of Dancing on Physical and Mental Health: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Chen Yongting , Wang Suqi , Senanu Ametefe Divine , John Dah
Published: October 2024

Dance, as an expressive art, has increasingly been recognised for its significant impact on physical and mental health. This comprehensive literature review delves into the multifaceted effects of dancing across various populations and settings, emphasising its implementation in Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) and Dance for Health (DfH) programmes. Central themes explored include: (1) the role of dance in enhancing neurological and cognitive functions through DMT; (2) its therapeutic potential in mental health and emotional well-being, primarily through DMT; and (3) the physical health benefits realised in DfH settings, encompassing aspects like cardiovascular health, muscular strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. In this study, forty-eight (48) peer-reviewed studies from prominent databases, spanning the period from 2020 to 2023 were scrutinised. The analysis reveals the extensive applications of dance, from rehabilitative therapy for neurodegenerative disorders to a catalyst for psychological resilience and social integration. Crucially, the review identifies under-researched areas such as the long-term effects of dance therapy, its impacts on specific demographic groups, and the integration of technology in dance practices. Additionally, the findings highlight the diverse nature of the health impacts of dance within DMT and DfH, underscoring both the empirical evidence of its benefits and the challenges, including accessibility and cultural adaptability. This review thus acts both as a retrospective examination and a forward-looking guide, offering insights for healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers into the complex relationship between dance and overall human health.
Implementation of cooling slots at the pressure side rims of squealer tips
Authors: Vieira Joao Antonio Coelho , Coull John , Ireland Peter
Published: October 2024

The blade tip is a particularly critical component of the high pressure turbine due to the hot overtip leakage gas being responsible for efficiency losses and thermal degradation, often limiting engine life. Squealer tip designs reduce the over-tip leakage mass flow, increasing efficiency, but the thin pressure side rims can be vulnerable to damage because of their large surface area and the difficulties of shielding them from hot overtip leakage flow. This paper considers a new approach to cooling these pressure side rims, by employing an inclined slot inside a recessed step. Compared to conventional cooling strategies, in which coolant is provided by multiple cylindrical holes, the slot feature improves cooling effectiveness by more than 50% in key regions of the pressure side rim, whilst also allowing for a substantial reduction in coolant mass flow. The concept design is developed and explored using Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) calculations, and the performance is validated experimentally in a linear cascade with representative Mach and Reynolds numbers.
Sosialisasi Pengenalan 3D Printing Untuk Siswa SMK 4 Dan Pemuda Di Kelurahan Kastela Kota Ternate Selatan
Authors: Rais Sandi , Asyriati Lita , Abbas M. Fadly , Muni Yulinda Sakinah , Sukiman B Sukiman B , Radjak Sahdar , Fajrin Syarif Al
Published: October 2024

3D printing merupakan metode manufaktur terkini, di mana material dicetak layaknya pencetakan kertas dengan printer dua dimensi, namun bahan cetak bukan tinta melainkan polimer, logam, atau material lain, sehingga produk cetak adalah benda tiga dimensi (Yin dkk., 2018). 3D printing bergantung erat pada teknologi informasi, terutama koneksi internet dan komputerisasi, untuk membuat model cetak, mendistribusikan model cetak ke lokasi pembuatan, dan memproduksi model cetak sebagai benda jadi di lokasi cetak (Dilberoglu dkk., 2017). Dengan demikian, 3D printing merupakan cerminan langsung dari penerapan Industri 4.0. Meskipun 3D printing sudah menjadi konten pendidikan di Asia (Chong dkk., 2018), namun metode produksi ini belum banyak dikenal bahkan dalam masyarakat Indonesia. Dengan semakin dalam Indonesia masuk ke perdagangan dan ekonomi global, tuntutan pasar untuk pekerja yang cakap dengan teknologi terbaru menjadi semakin genting. Karena adanya tuntutan dan kecenderungan global untuk menerapkan produksi berbasis 3D printing secara masif dan masih kurangnya pengetahuan masyarakat Indonesia mengenai proses produksi dengan metode 3D printing, maka kelompok pengabdian masyarakat Program Studi Teknik Industri Fakuktas Teknik Universitas Khairun, berinisiatif memberikan pendidikan dan pemahaman mengenai proses produksi dengan metode 3D printing. Sosialisasi pengenalan 3D printing diberikan kepada kelompok masyarakat yang akan sangat memerlukan kompetensi dalam aplikasi 3D printing di masa depan, Target dari sosialisasi ini adalah semua pemuda dan pemudi (siswa SMA dan sederajat serta mahasiswa dari di Kelurahan Kastela
Tetap Produktif di Masa Lansia
Authors: Nurmiati Nurmiati , Ridwan Ridwan , Ilham Ilham , Murbayani Murbayani , Ismail Ismail
Published: October 2024

Perwujudan bangsa yang sejahtera tentunya tidak lepas dari penerapan fungsi ekonomi dalam setiap keluarga. Oleh karena itu salah satu hal dalam mewujudkan bangsa yang sejahtera melalui peningkatan ekonomi keluarga, ini salah satunya ditunjang oleh para lansia yang produktif. Lansia produktif dapat diwujudkan dalam beberapa hal mulai dari kesehatan yang tetap fit serta kegiatan lain yang dapat mendatangkan manfaat ekonomi, salah satunya adalah keterampilan kerajinan tangan. Adapun tujuan kegiatan ini adalah untuk meningkatkan kreativitas para lansia melalui praktek kerajinan tangan selain untuk melatih otot-otot motoric para lansia, juga melatih emosional dan kesabaran serta fokus. Di samping itu juga kegiatan ini diharapkan dapat membekali lansia agar memiliki keterampilan yang dapat dijadikan sebagai pengetahuan untuk membuat berbagai kerajinan tangan baik hanya sekedar sebagai hobi maupun dapat dijadikan sebagai sesuatu yang dapat menghasilkan pendapatan yang mampu membantu ekonomi keluarga. Tim pelaksana melaksanakan kegiatan penyuluhan tentang tetap produktif di masa lansia Adapun luaran kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat ini adalah berupa laporan hasil kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat dan publikasi ilmiah di jurnal pengabdian kepada masyarakat. Kegiatan pengabdian kepada masyarakat dengan tema tetap produktif di masa lansia yang diawali dengan kegiatan senam sehat lansia kemudian dilanjutkan dengan penyuluhan serta keterampilan kerajinan tangan dapat meningkatkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan lansia dalam melatih hidup sehat, mandiri dan produktif.
Penyuluhan Kesehatan “Menjadi Lansia Aktif dan Produktif”
Authors: Surmayanti Surmayanti , Jufri P Fitriana , Maryam Sitti
Published: October 2024

Peningkatan jumlah penduduk diatas usia 60 tahun di perkirakan akan terus mengalami peningkatan. Perkiraan peningkatan dari tahun 2000 sampai 2050 akan berlipat ganda dari sekitar 11% menjadi 22% atau secara absolute meningkat dari 605 juta menjadi 2 miliyar lansia (WHO, 2014). Penduduk lanjut usia di dunia akan meningkat hingga 77,37%, sedangkan pen ingkatan usia produktif hanya mencapai 20,95%. Berdasarkan Data yang diperoleh dari Badan Pusat Statistik Kota Makassar tahun 2023 terdapat 89.329 juta lansia dengan kelompok umur diatas 65 tahun.  Adapun tujuan dilakukannya kegiatan pengabdian ini adalah diharapkan para lansia, khususnya di Sekolah Lansia Abdie Harapan Sudiang Makassar yang masih aktif bisa melatih produktifitas dan kreatifitas para lansia sehingga memperoleh kesadaran dini agar menua dengan sehat, mandiri dan tetap aktif. Kegiatan ini telah dilaksanakan pada hari Minggu, Tanggal 11 Agustus 2024. Kegiatan dilaksanakan dengan menggunakan metode ceramah disertai dengan pemutaran video contoh lansia yang aktif dan produktif di dunia dilanjutkan dengan tanya jawab dan diskusi kepada peserta lansia. Hasil evaluasi terdapat perubahan pengetahuan lansia setelah dilakukannya kegiatan PKM (Pengabdian Kepada Masyarakat). Adapun saran dari penyelenggara kegiatan PKM untuk petugas di Sekolah Lnasia Abdie Harapan agar lebih aktif atau lebih sering melakukan kegiatan supaya para lansia makin aktif dan produktif .
Comparative analysis of human and mouse transcriptomes during skin wound healing
Authors: Wang Maochun , Zhang Jiao , Qiao Chongxu , Yan Shunchao , Wu Guoping
Published: October 2024

Skin wound healing is a complex process which involves multiple molecular events and the underlying mechanism is not fully understood. We presented a comparative transcriptomic analysis of skin wound healing in humans and mice to identify shared molecular mechanisms across species. We analyzed transcriptomes from three distinct stages of the healing process and constructed protein-protein interaction networks to elucidate commonalities in the healing process. A substantial number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in human transcriptomes, particularly upregulated genes before and after wound injury, and enriched in processes related to extracellular matrix organization and leukocyte migration. Similarly, the mouse transcriptome revealed thousands of DEGs, with shared biological processes and enriched KEGG pathways, highlighting a conserved molecular signature in skin wound healing. A total of 21 common DEGs were found across human comparisons, and 591 in mouse comparisons, with four genes (KRT2, MARCKSL1, MMP1, and TNC) consistently differentially expressed in both species, suggesting critical roles in mammalian skin wound healing. The expression trends of these genes were consistent, indicating their potential as therapeutic targets. The molecular network analysis identified five subnetworks associated with collagen synthesis, immunity, cell-cell adhesion, and extracellular matrix, with hub genes such as COL4A1, TLR7, TJP3, MMP13, and HIF1A exhibited significant expression changes before and after wound injury in humans and mice. In conclusion, our study provided a detailed molecular network for understanding the healing process in humans and mice, revealing conserved mechanisms that could help the development of targeted therapies across species.
Bibliometric analysis of imaging and treatment strategies for severe tricuspid regurgitation from 2015 to 2023
Authors: Schlegl Johannes , Bannehr Marwin , Kücken Tanja , Jankowska Paulina , Neuss Michael , Lichtenauer Michael , Haase-Fielitz Anja , Butter Christian , Edlinger Christoph
Published: October 2024

Background

Severe tricuspid regurgitation is a progressive disease with an unfavourable prognosis. In recent years there have been extraordinary gains in knowledge through both clinical and basic scientific work. We performed a bibliometric analysis on tricuspid regurgitation with a focus on imaging techniques and treatment approaches and to identify scientific milestones and emerging research trends.

Methods

Publications, published between 2015 and 2023 were identified. Study characteristics, impact factors and countries of origin studies were recorded. Heat maps were created to visualise data and to identify leading centers. Most frequently cited publications were recognised as milestones.

Results

We screened 3,519 studies. 368 studies were included, of which 326 were clinical studies. Clinical studies were further subdivided into interventional (n = 138), surgical (n = 115) or studies on imaging modalities (n = 74). We detected an enormous increase in scientific output worldwide, especially in imaging and interventional studies. The United States, Germany and Poland were identified as leading countries in imaging, interventions and preclinical studies respectively.

Conclusions

Our study reflects the global gain in knowledge over the last 9 years. We were able to identify an annually rising number of interventional studies. Imaging studies have also seen a rapid increase, especially since 2020. In recent years, we monitored a decline in surgical studies.
Particle size characteristics of sliding-zone soil and its role in landslide occurrence: a case study of the Lanniqing landslide in Southwest China
Authors: Xu Zongheng , Ye Hongchen , Li Lingxu
Published: October 2024

In landslide studies, particle size is a key quantitative indicator, reflecting the formation and development of the sliding zone. It plays a crucial role in understanding the mechanisms and evolutionary processes that lead to landslide occurrences. Precise measurement of particle size is crucial. This study centered on soil samples from the Lanniqing landslide in Southwest China. To begin, seven distinct methods were used to preprocess the soil samples. Next, the particle size frequency distribution was measured using the Mastersizer 2000 laser particle size analyzer. Key parameters, including median particle size, mean particle size, sorting coefficient, skewness, and kurtosis, were then compared and analyzed to determine the most appropriate preprocessing method for evaluating the characteristics of the soil samples. The mechanism of landslide occurrence was subsequently analyzed by examining the particle size characteristics, mechanical properties, and mineral composition of the soil samples. The results suggested that method C provides the most reliable analysis of particle size characteristics in soil samples. The observed coarsening of coarse particles, along with a significant increase in clay content within the sliding zone, indicates that the sliding surface has undergone multiple shear and compression events. The interplay of the upper traffic load and slope cutting at the front edge set the stage for the Lanniqing landslide, prompting the initial development of potential sliding surfaces. Rainfall acts as a catalyst for slope instability. The high clay content, combined with the formation of a low-permeability layer rich in clay minerals on the sliding surface, leads to excessive pore water pressure and mineral lubrication. These factors inherently trigger and accelerate the occurrence of the landslide.
Inclusive attitudes: typically developing students and students with disabilities in UAE classrooms
Authors: Dukmak Samir , Abo Hamza Eid G. , Alkhatib Razan , Daghustani Wid , Bedewy Dalia
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Research on students’ attitudes toward inclusive education in the UAE is limited, with a focus on qualitative investigations of parents and teachers.

Methods

This study addresses this gap by developing the Students’ Attitude Scale to measure attitudes toward inclusive education. We examined the impact of age, grade level, nationality, educational placement, and gender on inclusive education using a sample of 355 students from diverse UAE districts.

Results

Findings reveal that female students scored significantly higher than males on the scale. While Emirati nationals showed higher scores, the difference was not statistically significant. Notably, students in the “All Day in Regular Classroom with the Necessary Support” placement had higher scores. Grade level and UAE district did not significantly influence attitudes.

Discussion

Our study emphasizes the positive influence of gender and increased interaction with students with disabilities on fostering favorable attitudes toward inclusive education. These insights can inform efforts to enhance inclusive practices in the UAE.
Achieving universal energy access in remote locations using HOMER energy model: a techno-economic and environmental analysis of hybrid microgrid systems for rural electrification in northeast Nigeria
Authors: Lewis Christopher Garrett , Ijeoma Muzan Williams , Yakubu Rahimat Oyiza , Chukwu Benjamin Nnamdi , Chen Hao , Carbajales-Dale Michael
Published: October 2024

The developing world continues to face substantial obstacles to achieving affordable and dependable electricity access. This issue is especially pertinent for Nigeria, where diesel generators are widely relied upon in urban and rural regions because of an underdeveloped and unreliable national grid. The lack of grid reliability is worsened in Northeastern Nigeria, an area plagued by conflict, extreme poverty, and grid infrastructure deterioration. This study investigates the feasibility of implementing community-scale microgrids in rural areas without grid connection access. It focuses on assessing the technical, economic, and environmental aspects of utilizing these microgrids to deliver inexpensive and dependable electricity to underserved populations to increase energy access. A case study was conducted in Kabuiri, a village with an estimated population of 2,300 residents and an estimated load demand of 610 kWh per day. A hybrid microgrid system was designed and optimized to meet the community’s load demand using HOMER software, sized to produce 610 kWh/day of electricity with a renewable penetration of 99%. The optimal solar PV/battery/generator system had a levelized cost of electricity (LCOE) of $ 0.093 per kWh, a net present cost (NPC) of $266,709, and an annual operating cost of $9,110. The system contributed 1,624 kg CO2 eq/year of global warming potential and 56.81 kg O3 eq/year of smog formation during operation. Sensitivity analysis showed that the system could effectively react to or adapt to substantial increases in diesel prices, requiring only marginal increases in photovoltaic capacity and reduced generator usage to maintain the most cost-efficient operation. Additionally, the system model can be adapted based on the population of the remote community without substantially impacting the LCOE, however, the NPC increases with increase in population size. This research will aid in increasing energy access in remote locations by providing insights to stakeholders and energy access project developers.
Energetic, exergetic, and exergoeconomic analyses of beer wort production processes
Authors: Jemigbeyi O. S. , Salau T. A. O. , Oyewola O. M.
Published: October 2024

Energy efficiency strategies in industrial breweries examine the inefficiency of thermal systems from a thermodynamic perspective. However, understanding the costs of inefficiencies in systems, including non-thermodynamic costs, requires exergoeconomics. This study examined wort production in a standard Tier-1 brewery from the tripod of energy, exergy, and exergoeconomics analyses to assess the performance of brewing sections and to pinpoint components that contributed the most to exergy destruction and product cost rate. The energy analyses for the production system showed that the total specific energy for processing 10.05 tons of brew grains to 346.98 hL high-gravity wort was (86 ± 1) MJ/hL at an operational energy efficiency of 30.35%. The exergetic analyses showed that the cumulative exergetic destruction was 3.2737 MW, with the brewhouse section contributing 89.25% of the system’s inefficiencies. Also, the analyses showed that the wort kettle (42.7911%), mash tun (10.8086%), preheater (10.0683%), whirlpool (8.3522%), and adjunct kettle (6.2705%) are the top five components with the highest rates of cumulative exergy destruction. The exergoeconomic analyses revealed that the cost rate of processing chilled wort was estimated to be 0.0681 USD/s per overall exergetic efficiency of 6.61%. The five most significant components are the wort kettle (53.70%), whirlpool (16.42%), mash filter (10.44%), mash tun (6.875%), and adjunct kettle (3.31%) based on the relative total cost increases for the production processes. Additionally, wet steam throttling resulted in a 2.51% increase in exergetic efficiency, a 1.60% drop in exergetic destruction rate, and a decrease in cost rates to 0.0675 USD/s.
Impact of gender-biased parental perceptions on under-immunization in Eastern Sudan: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Abdallah Malaz Sulieman , Jumma Taqwa , Elhadi Yasir Ahmed Mohammed , Sabahelzain Majdi M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite global efforts, inequities in vaccine uptake remain, influenced by socioeconomic, geographic, cultural, and gender-related factors. In Eastern Sudan, gender disparities are acknowledged, particularly in livelihoods, but their impact on vaccination uptake is unclear. This study aimed to assess the effect of gender-biased parental perceptions on under-immunization among children in Kassala, Eastern Sudan.

Methods

This study was a community-based cross-sectional in rural and urban districts of Kassala locality in Kassala State, Eastern Sudan in November 2022. Data were collected from parents using a pre-tested, structured questionnaire. The Chi-square or Fisher's exact test was conducted to assess the factors associated with under-immunization among children.

Results

Data were collected from 400 parents. Our data reveal that most children were fully vaccinated with the three doses of the pentavalent vaccine (83%), while 14% were partially vaccinated. Findings showed that about one in five parents perceived male vaccination as more important than female vaccination. This parental perception of gender-based importance in vaccination was significantly associated with under-immunization among children (p-value = 0.049). Additionally, males in our study are fully vaccinated 5% more often than females. Socio-economic factors, including mothers’ education and households’ income level, were also significantly associated with the vaccination status of the children.

Conclusion

This study shed light on the effect of gender norms and related determinants on equitable access to vaccinations for boys and girls alike. More research is needed to gain a better understanding of the gender norms related to vaccination and their long-term impact on immunization demand and resilience in this region.
Antiviral immune response against HTLV-1 invalidates T-SPOT.TB® results in patients with HTLV-1-positive rheumatic diseases
Authors: Kimura Masatoshi , Umekita Kunihiko , Iwao Chihiro , Kawano Katsumi , Hashikura Yuki , Hashiba Yayoi , Hidaka Toshihiko , Sugata Kenji , Satou Yorifumi , Miyazaki Taiga
Published: October 2024

Background

T-SPOT.TB®, one of the screening tests for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI), yields invalid results in human T-cell leukemia virus type 1 (HTLV-1)-positive patients with rheumatoid arthritis. However, the detailed mechanisms behind this invalidation are unclear. Additionally, it remains unclear whether T-SPOT.TB® or QuantiFERON-TB (QFT) is more useful in HTLV-1-positive patients with rheumatic disease (RD).

Method

Among all of the HTLV-1-positive RD patients who visited our department between August 2012 and December 2022, 44 patients who were screened using T-SPOT.TB® were included in the analysis. QFT testing was performed in 33 of the 44 patients, and the results were compared with that of T-SPOT.TB®. Furthermore, we performed a culture experiment mimicking T-SPOT.TB® using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from HTLV-1-positive patients with RD. Additionally, T-cell subsets with autonomous product IFN-γ were analyzed using a flow cytometer.

Results

Of the included patients, 13 (29.5%) were invalid for T-SPOT.TB® because of the increased number of negative control spots. The median HTLV-1 proviral load in the invalid group was higher than that in the valid group (2.45 vs. 0.49 copies/100 PBMCs, respectively, p = 0.002). QFT was performed in all 33 patients, including 13 patients who were invalid in T-SPOT.TB®. The main source of IFN-γ production was CD8+ T-cells in the T-SPOT.TB® mimic experiment. Furthermore, Tax-expressing CD4+ T-cells and Tax-specific cytotoxic CD8+ T-cells were more frequently observed in patients with invalid results than in patients with valid results. CD4+ T-cell depletion in the T-SPOT.TB® mimic experiment reduced the population of IFN-γ producing CD8+ T cells.

Conclusion

T-SPOT.TB® may be invalidated by the interaction between Tax-expressing CD4+ T-cells and cytotoxic CD8+ T-cells. Moreover, HTLV-1-associated immune reactions due to contact between these cells may be unlikely to occur in QFT using whole blood. Therefore, our results reveal the superiority of QFT over T-SPOT.TB® as a screening test for LTBI in HTLV-1-positive patients with RD.
Investigating antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of synthetic curcuminoids
Authors: Veselá Kateřina , Kejík Zdeněk , Abramenko Nikita , Kaplánek Robert , Jakubek Milan , Petrlova Jitka
Published: October 2024

The concept of intratumoral microbiota is gaining attention in current research. Tumor-associated microbiota can activate oncogenic signaling pathways such as NF-κB, thereby promoting tumor development and progression. Numerous studies have demonstrated that curcumin and its analogs possess strong antitumor effects by targeting the NF-κB signaling pathway, along with potent antibacterial properties. In this study, we tested the antibacterial activity of two curcuminoids, Py-cPen and V-cPen, against the Gram-negative bacterial strains Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli and the Gram-positive bacterial strain Streptococcus aureus using in vitro assays and fluorescent microscopy. We observed that both Py-cPen and V-cPen reduced NF-κB activation upon lipopolysacharide (LPS) challenge in cell assays. In addition, our findings indicate that Py-cPen and V-cPen interact with LPS, as demonstrated by transmission electron microscopy and confirmed using in silico analyses, thereby modulating LPS activity. Overall, our data indicate that Py-cPen and V-cPen exhibit strong antibacterial and antiinflammatory properties, suggesting their potential as candidates for new multitarget therapeutic strategies.
Effect of supplementation with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG powder on intestinal and liver damage in broiler chickens challenged by lipopolysaccharide
Authors: Zhang Xiaohan , Sun Lanyuan , Wu Mengjun , Yu Chenmin , Zhao Di , Wang Lei , Zhang Zhengfan , Yi Dan , Hou Yongqing , Wu Tao
Published: October 2024

This study explores the effect of dietary along with Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) powder on intestinal and liver damage in broiler chickens challenged by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). A total of 100 healthy 1-day-old Ross 308 broiler chickens were selected and randomly divided into two treatments: the control group and the LGG treatment group. There were five replicates for each group, with 10 chickens per replicate. The chickens in the control group were fed a basal diet, while LGG treatment was supplemented with 1,000 mg/kg LGG along with the basal diet. The experiment lasted 29 days, and the trial included two phases. During the first 27 days, the animals were weighed on the 14th and 27th days to calculate growth performance. Then, on day 29, 2 animals from each replicate were intraperitoneally injected with 1 mg/kg BW LPS, and another 2 animals were treated with an equal volume of saline. The chickens were slaughtered 3 h later for sampling and further analysis. (1) LGG addition to the diet did not affect growth performance, including average daily gain (ADG), average daily feed intake (ADFI), and feed-to-weight ratio (F/G) of broiler chickens; (2) LPS stimulation decreased villus height (VH), and caused oxidative stress and increased the amount of diamine oxidase (DAO) in plasma, and the relative expression of intestinal inflammation genes (interleukin-8 [IL-8], interleukin 1β [IL-1β], inducible nitric oxide synthase [iNOS], and tumor necrosis factor-α [TNF-α]) and the relative expression of liver injury genes (b-cell lymphoma 2 [BCL2], heat shock protein70 [HSP70], and matrix metallopeptidase 13 [MMP13]). (3) Supplementation of LGG increased VH and the relative expression of intestinal barrier genes (mucins 2 [Mucin2] and occludin [Occludin]) and decreased the amount of DAO in plasma and the relative expression of intestinal inflammatory factors (IL-8, iNOS, and IL-1β). LGG supplementation also increased the expression of liver injury-related genes (MMP13 and MMP9). In conclusion, LGG enhanced intestinal barrier function, improved intestinal morphology, and alleviated the intestines’ inflammatory response in LPS-stimulated broiler chicken, and it has a slightly protective effect on liver damage.
The role of inflammation in neurological disorders: a brief overview of multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease’
Authors: Cantero-Fortiz Yahveth , Boada Mercè
Published: October 2024

Neuroinflammation is a central feature in the pathophysiology of several neurodegenerative diseases, including MS, AD, and PD. This review aims to synthesize current research on the role of inflammation in these conditions, emphasizing the potential of inflammatory biomarkers for diagnosis and treatment. We highlight recent findings on the mechanisms of neuroinflammation, the utility of biomarkers in disease differentiation, and the implications for therapeutic strategies. Advances in understanding inflammatory pathways offer promising avenues for developing targeted interventions to improve patient outcomes. Future research should focus on validating these biomarkers in larger cohorts and integrating them into clinical practice to enhance diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic efficacy.
Altered intrinsic neural activity and its molecular analyses in first-episode schizophrenia with auditory verbal hallucinations
Authors: Wang Ziyu , Xue Kangkang , Kang Yimeng , Liu Zijun , Cheng Jingliang , Zhang Yan , Wei Yarui
Published: October 2024

Background

Auditory verbal hallucinations (AVHs) are one of the signature positive symptoms of schizophrenia, affecting a substantial portion of patients with schizophrenia. These hallucinations seriously impact the lives of patients, resulting in a substantial social burden. Recent studies have shown a significant correlation between abnormal local brain activity and the neurobiological mechanisms of AVHs. However, it is not fully clear whether altered intrinsic brain activity in schizophrenia patients with AVHs is correlated with specific neurotransmitter systems.

Methods

We included 50 first-episode, drug-naïve schizophrenia patients with AVHs, 50 patients without AVHs (NAVHs), and 50 age- and sex-matched healthy controls (HCs). The amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) was utilized to explore the altered intrinsic brain activity in the AVH group. Subsequently, we spatially correlated the altered ALFF with neurotransmitter maps using JuSpace.

Results

In our study, compared to HCs, the AVH group exhibited significantly reduced ALFF in multiple brain regions, mainly including the left precuneus, bilateral supplementary motor areas, bilateral paracentral lobules, bilateral precentral gyri, and bilateral postcentral gyri. The NAVH group showed significantly reduced ALFF in the left inferior occipital gyrus, left calcarine gyrus, and left lingual gyrus compared to HCs. Furthermore, the AVH group showed higher ALFF in the right inferior frontal gyrus compared to the NAVH group. Additionally, these ALFF alterations in the AVH group were closely related to three neurotransmitters, including dopamine, serotonin and norepinephrine.

Conclusion

We link neurotransmitters to abnormal intrinsic brain activity in first-episode, drug-naïve schizophrenia patients with AVHs, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiological processes and treatment pathways underlying AVHs.
Patterns of expression of VEGFR2, PDGFRs and c-Kit in pediatric patients with high grade non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma
Authors: Mohammed Mona M. , Hafez Hanafy A. , Elnadi Enas M. , Salama Asmaa I. , Abd Elaziz Abd Elaziz Saad , Ahmed Gehad T. , ELwakeel Madeeha A. , Kamal Mohamed K. , Kieran Mark W. , Elhaddad Alaa M.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Activated vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFRs), platelet-derived growth factor receptors (PDGFRs) and c-Kit have been shown to be involved in the growth, invasion and metastasis of non-rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma tumor (NRSTS) with promising results for targeted therapy. Our aim was to assess the expression of these markers among different histological types and correlate with outcomes.

Material and methods

This retrospective study included pediatric patients aged ≤ 18 years diagnosed with high-grade NRSTS who were treated at Children Cancer Hospital Egypt 57357 as per the COG NRSTS protocol (ARST0332). Expression of VEGFR2, PDGFRs (α and β) and c-Kit in tumor tissue was assessed by immunohistochemistry and correlated with clinical outcome.

Results

Of 113 patients, 96 were eligible for the analysis with a median age of 11 years. Overall, 32.3% demonstrated high expression of PDGFRα, 17.7% for PDGFRβ, 19.8% for VEGFR2 and 8.3% exhibited positive expression for c-kit on the tumor cells. Most cases of synovial sarcoma (45.8%) and 43.7% of patients with undifferentiated sarcoma exhibited high expression of PDGFRα while 41.6% of MPNST showed high expression to PDGFRβ. The 5-year overall survival (OS), event free survival and relapse free survival (RFS) for the whole cohort were 59%, 54% and 60% respectively. In univariate analyses, only PDGFRα had a negative prognostic impact on relapse free survival (RFS) (p=0.03). In multivariate analyses, VEGFR2 was found to have a negative prognostic impact for OS (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Our findings indicated that tyrosine kinase receptors are upregulated in NRSTS and exhibited a distinct expression pattern within various subgroups. High expression of VEGFR2 and PDGFRα significantly correlated with reduced survival and may guide targeted therapy approaches for this poor prognosis group of patients.
Research progress of two-pore potassium channel in myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury
Authors: Zhang Yue , Li Jing , Pan Jiamei , Deng Shengli
Published: October 2024

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) is a secondary injury caused by restoring blood flow after acute myocardial infarction, which may lead to serious arrhythmia and heart damage. In recent years, the role of potassium channels in MIRI has attracted much attention, especially the members of the two-pore domain potassium (K2P) channel family. K2P channel has unique structure and function, and the formation of its heterodimer increases its functional diversity. This paper reviews the structural characteristics, types, expression and physiological functions of K2P channel in the heart. In particular, we pay attention to whether members of the subfamily such as TWIK, TREK, TASK, TALK, THIK and TRESK participate in MIRI and their related mechanisms. Future research will help to reveal the molecular mechanism of K2P channel in MIRI and provide new strategies for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Cry1Ac toxin binding in the velvetbean caterpillar Anticarsia gemmatalis: study of midgut aminopeptidases N
Authors: Lanzaro M. D. , Padilha I. , Ramos L. F. C. , Mendez A. P. G. , Menezes A. , Silva Y. M. , Martins M. R. , Junqueira M. , Nogueira F. C. S. , AnoBom C. D. , Dias G. M. , Gomes F. M. , Oliveira D. M. P.
Published: October 2024

The velvetbean caterpillar Anticarsia gemmatalis is one of the main soybean defoliators in Brazil. Currently, the main biopesticide used to control insect pests worldwide is the bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), which produces entomopathogenic Crystal toxins (Cry) that act in the midgut of susceptible insects, leading them to death. The mode of action of Cry toxins in the midgut involves binding to specific receptors present on the brush border of epithelial cells such as aminopeptidase N (APN), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), cadherin, and others. Mutations in these receptors, among other factors, may be involved in the development of resistance; identification of functional Cry receptors in the midgut of A. gemmatalis is crucial to develop effective strategies to overcome this possible scenario. This study’s goal is to characterize APNs of A. gemmatalis and identify a receptor for Cry1Ac in the midgut. The interaction of Bt spores with the midgut epithelium was observed in situ by immunohistochemistry and total aminopeptidase activity was estimated in brush border membrane vesicle (BBMV) samples, presenting higher activity in challenged individuals than in control ones. Ten APN sequences were found in a A. gemmatalis’ transcriptome and subjected to different in silico analysis, such as phylogenetic tree, multiple sequence alignment and identification of signal peptide, activity domains and GPI-anchor signal. BBMV proteins from 5th instar larvae were submitted to a ligand blotting using activated Cry1Ac toxin and a commercial anti-Cry polyclonal antibody; corresponding bands of proteins that showed binding to Cry toxin were excised from the SDS-PAGE gel and subjected to mass spectrometry analysis, which resulted in the identification of seven of those APNs. Quantitative PCR was realized to compare expression levels between individuals subjected to sublethal infection with Bt spores and control ones, presenting up- and downregulations upon Bt infection. From these results, we can infer that aminopeptidases N in A. gemmatalis could be involved in the mode of action of Cry toxins in its larval stage.
Relationship between physical exercise and college students’ social adaptation: the chain mediating role of self-esteem and peer attachment
Authors: Zhou Zehui , Guo Kelei , Guo Siqiang , Chen Lang
Published: October 2024

Objective

Physical exercise is an important way for college students to keep healthy, and social adaptation is an important part of college students’ mental health. Therefore, this study explores strategies to enhance college students’ social adaptation from the perspective of physical exercise, examining the correlation between physical exercise and college students’ social adaptation, and delving into the roles of self-esteem and peer attachment in this relationship.

Methods

A stratified cluster sampling method was used to collect data from 809 college students at Zhaoqing University (average age 19.88 ± 1.22, of whom 399 were male and 410 were female) using the physical exercise scale, college students’ social adaptation scale, self-esteem scale, and peer attachment scale. For data analysis, Pearson correlation analysis, structural equation modeling, and bias-corrected percentile bootstrap methods were sequentially performed.

Results

(1) Physical exercise was positively correlated with college students’ social adaptation (r = 0.58, p < 0.01), and the direct path between physical exercise and college students’ social adaptation was significant (β = 0.28, p < 0.01, CI[0.22, 0.33]); (2) Physical exercise was positively correlated with self-esteem (β = 0.56, p < 0.01, CI[0.50, 0.62]) and peer attachment (β = 0.18, p < 0.01, CI[0.11, 0.26]); self-esteem was positively correlated with peer attachment (β = 0.36, p < 0.01, CI[0.28, 0.43]) and college students’ social adaptation (β = 0.43, p < 0.01, CI[0.37, 0.49]); peer attachment was positively correlated with college students’ social adaptation (β = 0.18, p < 0.01, CI[0.12, 0.23]); (3) The relationship between physical exercise and social adaptation was not only mediated independently by self-esteem and peer attachment, but also indirectly by the same two factors in a chain reaction.

Conclusion

Physical exercise can not only directly predict college students’ social adaptation, but also indirectly predict college students’ social adaptation through the independent mediation and chain mediation of self-esteem and peer attachment. It reveals that we should combine more important physical exercise with mental health education for students.
Material and social deprivation associated with public health actual causes of death among older people in Europe: longitudinal and multilevel results from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE)
Authors: Belau Matthias Hans
Published: October 2024

Background

Adverse socioeconomic conditions at the individual and regional levels are associated with an increased risk of mortality. However, few studies have examined this relationship using multilevel analysis and, if so, only within a single country. This study aimed to examine this relationship using data from several European countries.

Methods

Individual-level data were obtained from Waves 5 to 9 of the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe, while regional-level data were obtained from the Luxembourg Income Study Database. Cox regression analysis with gamma-shared frailty and a random intercept for country of residence was used to examine the association between individual mortality from all causes, cancer, heart attack, and stroke and measures of socioeconomic deprivation at the individual level, including material and social deprivation indices, and at the area level, including the Gini index.

Results

The risk of mortality from all causes was increased for respondents with material deprivation (hazard ratio (HR) = 1.77, 95% CI = [1.60, 1.96]) and social deprivation (HR = 7.63, 95% CI = [6.42, 9.07]) compared with those without. A similar association was observed between individual deprivation and the risk of mortality from cancer, heart attack, or stroke. Regional deprivation had a modest contextual effect on the individual risk of death from all causes and cancer. However, when individual-level deprivation was included in the models, no contextual effects were found.

Conclusion

The results indicate that individual socioeconomic conditions significantly predict causes of death in older European adults, with those with material deprivation and social deprivation having a higher risk of death from all causes, including cancer, heart attack, and stroke, while the Gini index has a minimal effect, although the Gini index reflects regional disparities across Europe.
Effects of two non-drug interventions on pain and anxiety in the nursing process of burn patients: a literature review with meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Wei , Sui Xiaona , Zhang Lingling , Zhang Liping , Yan Huilan , Song Shuangshuang
Published: October 2024

Background

Burns are a global health issue causing significant mortality and high medical costs. Non-pharmacological interventions such as music therapy and virtual reality (VR) therapy have shown potential in alleviating pain and anxiety in burn patients. This study systematically evaluates the impact of these interventions using a network meta-analysis.

Methods

A systematic review and network meta-analysis were conducted according to PRISMA 2020 guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD42024566536). Searches in PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase up to November 22, 2023, identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving music therapy or VR therapy in burn patients. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool (2.0) assessed study quality. Data were analyzed using StataMP-64 software.

Results

Seventeen RCTs with 1,119 burn patients were included. Both music therapy and VR therapy significantly reduced pain and anxiety compared to control groups. Music therapy was more effective for pain reduction (SUCRA: 85.4%), while VR therapy was superior for anxiety relief (SUCRA: 79.5%).

Conclusion

Music therapy and VR therapy effectively reduce pain and anxiety in burn patients. Integrating these interventions into burn care can enhance patient outcomes. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and optimize individualized treatment plans.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, PROSPERO (CRD42024566536).