bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rediscovering the Multi-period Landscape of Kingsteps, Nairn, Highlands
Authors: Teufel Leonie
Published: February 2024

Archaeological works which uncovered a multi-period site were undertaken in 2018 and 2019 south of Kingsteps, Nairn, Highland. The archaeological features excavated comprised a possible Mesolithic feature, Neolithic fire pits, Early and Late Bronze Age pits, Iron Age and Pictish pits, and linear post-medieval features. In addition, further pits were identified which were similar in form and size to the Bronze Age pits and have therefore been interpreted as possibly prehistoric in date. Within the wider landscape surrounding Kingsteps a picture of similar multi-phased activity has been revealed at sites like Lochloy and Balmakeith Industrial Estate.
Optimizing Positive e-Word of Mouth: Unveiling the Influence of Brand Personification, Social Presence, and Message Characteristics
Authors: Kussusanti Kussusanti , Gunawan Imsar
Published: February 2024

Several companies aim to enhance digital marketing communication processes to achieve desired outcomes. Strategies include brand personification, embodying a human persona for the brand, and fostering social presence, perceived through communication activities. The characteristics of the message also play a significant role. However, research on the role of brand personification, social presence, and message characteristics on Instagram remains scarce. This study investigates their influence on positive e-word-of-mouth intention within Indonesia's telecommunication service provider industry.  A quantitative research method is employed, using Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) with the Lisrel program for data analysis from 254 respondents, findings indicate significant effects. Brand personification, social presence, and message characteristics positively impact e-word-of-mouth intention, with respective influences of 0.17, 0.27, and 0.40. The study suggests telecommunication companies leverage these factors to cultivate positive e-word-of-mouth intention among customers, aiding in digital marketing effectiveness.
Experiencias de crianza y aprendizajes significativos desde las capacidades diversas psicosociales
Authors: Téllez Camacho Ligia Cecilia , Muñoz Amado Lady Carolinne , García Gaivao Daniela
Published: February 2024

Inicialmente, se relacionan los objetivos de la investigación a partir de la posibilidad de comprender la relación entre las experiencias de crianza y el desarrollo de aprendizajes significativos en niños y niñas con capacidades diversas psicosociales, permite resignificar acciones y prácticas en las familias y a su vez, proyectar estrategias institucionales para hacer acompañamientos de manera efectiva, teniendo en cuenta las capacidades diversas como una posibilidad de reconocimiento de las potencialidades humanas. La investigación se sustentó desde una perspectiva hermenéutica y enfoque biográfico narrativo, dando de esta manera voz a los niños y las niñas, qué a su vez permitieron conocer algunos aspectos frente a las experiencias de crianza del sujeto niño y niña, desde su esencia, en su corta o larga trayectoria en este mundo, recorriendo los pasajes de la memoria en el tiempo y el espacio. Los resultados permiten ver, que las experiencias de crianza varían según la cultura y las prácticas familiares, asimismo tienen un vínculo cercano con el desarrollo de aprendizajes significativos, ya que cada uno aporta y nutre el proceso de desarrollo y crecimiento intelectual y personal. Así mismo, se puede concluir que, las capacidades diversas hacen parte de la esencia del ser humano y no deben ser consideradas como discapacidades, una mirada social que se refuerza a partir de la interacción con los niños y las niñas de la Fundación Niña María sobrepasando factores como el miedo, el abandono, la tristeza y los demás aspectos que permiten la participación plena en igualdad de condiciones con los demás.
Relación entre el tipo de apego y los eventos traumáticos vividos en adolescentes en riesgo psicosocial, en función del criterio tener o no tener Trastorno por Déficit de Atención e Hiperactividad (TDAH)
Authors: Diez Zamorano Maria Angeles , López-Villalobos José Antonio , Serrano Pintado Isabel , Vicente Gon´zalez Laura
Published: February 2024

El TDAH, la presencia de apego inseguro y los eventos traumáticos son habituales en menores en riesgo psicosocial atendidos en Programas de Apoyo a Familias (PAF) en servicios sociales. La similitud de estas variables con síntomas presentes en clasificaciones DSM-5 y CIE-11 en apartados como Trastornos relacionados con Traumas y Factores de Estrés, nos hace pensar que pueden inducir a confusión. El objetivo de la investigación es describir el tipo de apego y experiencias traumáticas vividas en adolescentes entre 13 y 17 años con/sin TDAH incluidos/as en PAF. El diseño de la investigación es el de un estudio empírico, que en función de los diferentes objetivos, tiene un diseño descriptivo y/o analítico observacional de corte transversal. Resultados: los/as menores con TDAH tienen una mayor proporción de apego inseguro (fundamentalmente ambivalente) y mayor rango promedio en el nº de eventos traumáticos que los/as menores sin TDAH. El grupo TDAH tiene mayor proporción de abuso/maltrato psicológico, abuso/maltrato físico y negligencia emocional que en el grupo sin TDAH. Respecto a las dimensiones relacionales y mediante análisis multivariable, se observa que el incremento de nº de eventos traumáticos de los/as menores influyen significativamente en la probabilidad de apego inseguro y de tener TDAH.  Conclusiones: dado que el diagnóstico de TDAH es clínico y ajustado a DSM-5 o CIE-11 se debe realizar un buen diagnóstico diferencial y/o comorbilidad con trastornos de apego, trastornos por trauma y factores de estrés, maltrato y abuso.
Prematuridade e estresse parental: uma análise das sugestões de estudos futuros
Authors: Cordeiro do Espírito Santo Layanne , Sousa Monteiro Oliveira Luísa , Souza da Costa Silva Simone
Published: February 2024

Este estudo teve por objetivo identificar, analisar e descrever as sugestões de estudos futuros de artigos que investigaram o estresse parental associado a prematuridade. Para isso, foi utilizado uma Revisão Integrativa da literatura (RIL) nas bases de dados CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Medline, PsycInfo e Web of Science. O banco de dados da presente revisão é constituído por 41 estudos que foram organizados considerando duas grandes dimensões: características gerais e Sugestões de pesquisas futuras. Observou-se que o maior número de publicações foi realizado no continente europeu e entre os anos de 2014 e 2019. As sugestões de pesquisas futuras foram categorizadas em: sugestões metodológicas e sugestões sobre outras variáveis para se investigar. Observou-se que as sugestões mais frequentes foram em relação ao tamanho e composição da amostra e a realização de estudos que envolvesse intervenção. As sugestões encontradas pelos pesquisadores que investigaram o estresse de pais de bebes prematuros revela a preocupação com a realização de pesquisas cujos dados possam ser passiveis de generalização para outros grupos de pais no contexto da prematuridade, mas também que possibilitem o planejamento de ações que permitam aliviar o estresse vivido por esta população. Esta RIL pode contribuir com as novas pesquisas sobre estresse de pais de bebes prematuros, uma vez que novos estudos podem ser realizados a partir das sugestões que foram apresentadas de forma sistematizada.
A study on local drug delivery with tetracycline in the treatment of chronic periodontits
Authors: Biswas C. , BANERJEE Sohini , MUKHERJEE S. , Sanyal J , Pal N.K.
Published: February 2024

Aim: To evaluate the clinical efficacy of locally delivered antimicrobial, namely tetracycline, into periodontal pocket to bring about the changes in clinical parameter of periodontal inflammation.

Materials &and mMethods: A sum total of 974 sites of periodontal pockets were evaluated for gingival index, plaque index, probing pocket depth, attachment loss after considering the inclusion criteria for the study after being randomly allocated into three different groups.

Results &and observations: The results are were subjected to statistical analysis and found to be statistically significant.

Conclusion: This locally delivered antimicrobials was were found to clinically effective in reducing clinical parameters of periodontal inflammation.

Key wWords: Tetracycline, clinical parameters, periodontal inflammation.
Assessment of knowledge and practices about COVID-19 pandemic
among general public of Nagpur city
Authors: Kahar Anita , Joshi Jayashree , Radke Usha , Pande Neelam
Published: February 2024

Now we have completed more than one year of living with COVID-19. A novel corona virus was first identified at Wuhan, China in the month of December 2019.
In India, the first case was reported in the month of March and on 11th March, this virus entered in Nagpur cityof Maharashtra also. To control its spread, various guidelines have been framed. But it has been observed that, some people are following itstrictly, some follow it less while some people are in wrong impression that, nothing will happened, that is they not at all following the instruction given by the government & health policy. So a requirement was felt to assess the knowledge and practices about COVID 19 pandemic among general public of Nagpur city.

Objective:
To assess the knowledge and practices about COVID 19 pandemic among general public of Nagpur city.

Methods:
A cross sectional study was conducted among willing adults of age 20yrs and above of Nagpur city via Google form for a period of one month.

Results-
In this survey, out of 438 Nagpurians, 82% were aware of the modes of spread of COVID -19, 99.1% of them knew the symptoms of this disease. 33% of them prefer online payment during this pandemic. 97% of them thought, the life has disturbed due to this pandemic.

Conclusions-
In this survey, it seems that the knowledge & practice of Nagpurians towards COVID-19 is satisfactory except a few who needs to be educated again and again.

Key words-
Nagpur city, COVID-19 pandemic, knowledge, general public, practices
Comparison of three different solutions for the disinfection of bamboo toothbrushes with plant based bristle and nylon bristle toothbrushes: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lodha Vipul , Saraf Tanvi , Jawdekar Ashwin
Published: February 2024

Introduction - Toothbrushes get contaminated with use and may be a source of infection and cross-contamination. Disinfection of toothbrushes after use results in reduction in amount of bacteria on toothbrushes. Various agents are used, like chlorhexidine, UV lights, triclosan, baking soda, neem, etc. for the same.
To compare three different solutions for the disinfection of bamboo toothbrushes with plant based bristle and nylon bristle toothbrushes
To assess and compare the disinfection of bamboo toothbrushes with plant based bristle and nylon bristle toothbrushes using three different solutions.
Material and Methods - A total of 120 individuals belonging to the age group of 8 to 11 years old were recruited. Six groups based on the disinfection solution and type of disinfectant were made: Group 1- bamboo toothbrush and water, group 2- nylon toothbrush and water, group 3- bamboo toothbrush and triclosan mouthwash, group 4- nylon toothbrush and triclosan mouthwash, group 5- bamboo toothbrush and baking soda and group 6- nylon toothbrush and baking soda. After brushing, the children/ parent were asked to disinfect the toothbrush for five minutes after every use for eight days. Bristle samples were collected on days 1 and 8 for the evaluation of CFU/ml of total bacterial count.
Results - A total of 118 participants completed the study. The mean bacterial counts in CFU/ml on day 1 were 7.17 ± 0.59, 7.12 ± 0.61, 6.73 ± 0.52, 6.94±0.67, 6.86±0.57 and 7.03±0.56 for group 1 to 6, respectively. The mean bacterial counts in CFU/ml on day 8 were 7.14 ± 0.57, 7.04 ± 0.58, 1.48 ± 0.36, 1.91 ± 0.35, 2.07±0.43 and 2.07±0.32 for group 1 to group 6, respectively.
Conclusion - Triclosan containing mouthwash and baking soda were both similar in terms of the disinfection of bamboo toothbrushes with plant based bristles and nylon toothbrushes.
Key Words - Baking soda, Bamboo toothbrush with plant based bristles, Disinfection, S. mutans, Toothbrush, Triclosan mouthwash, 8-11-year-old children
Non-coding RNAs are involved in tumor cell death and affect tumorigenesis, progression, and treatment: a systematic review
Authors: Han Zeping , Luo Wenfeng , Shen Jian , Xie Fangmei , Luo Jinggen , Yang Xiang , Pang Ting , Lv Yubing , Li Yuguang , Tang Xingkui , He Jinhua
Published: February 2024

Cell death is ubiquitous during development and throughout life and is a genetically determined active and ordered process that plays a crucial role in regulating homeostasis. Cell death includes regulated cell death and non-programmed cell death, and the common types of regulatory cell death are necrosis, apoptosis, necroptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis. Apoptosis, Necrosis and necroptosis are more common than autophagy, ferroptosis and pyroptosis among cell death. Non-coding RNAs are regulatory RNA molecules that do not encode proteins and include mainly microRNAs, long non-coding RNAs, and circular RNAs. Non-coding RNAs can act as oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, with significant effects on tumor occurrence and development, and they can also regulate tumor cell autophagy, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis at the transcriptional or post-transcriptional level. This paper reviews the recent research progress on the effects of the non-coding RNAs involved in autophagy, ferroptosis, and pyroptosis on tumorigenesis, tumor development, and treatment, and looks forward to the future direction of this field, which will help to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis and tumor development, as well as provide a new vision for the treatment of tumors.
Vaccination with parasite-specific TcTASV proteins combined with recombinant baculovirus as a delivery platform protects against acute and chronic Trypanosoma cruzi infection
Authors: Masip Yamil E. , Caeiro Lucas D. , Cosenza Maximiliano , Postan Miriam , Molina Guido , Taboga Oscar , Molinari María Paula , Tekiel Valeria
Published: February 2024

Chagas’ is a neglected disease caused by the eukaryotic kinetoplastid parasite, Trypanosoma cruzi. Currently, approximately 8 million people are infected worldwide, most of whom are in the chronic phase of the disease, which involves cardiac, digestive, or neurologic manifestations. There is an urgent need for a vaccine because treatments are only effective in the initial phase of infection, which is generally underdiagnosed. The selection and combination of antigens, adjuvants, and delivery platforms for vaccine formulations should be designed to trigger mixed humoral and cellular immune responses, considering that T. cruzi has a complex life cycle with both intracellular and bloodstream circulating parasite stages in vertebrate hosts. Here, we report the effectiveness of vaccination with a T. cruzi-specific protein family (TcTASV), employing both recombinant proteins with aluminum hydroxide and a recombinant baculovirus displaying a TcTASV antigen at the capsid. Vaccination stimulated immunological responses by producing lytic antibodies and antigen-specific CD4+ and CD8+ IFNɣ secreting lymphocytes. More than 90% of vaccinated animals survived after lethal challenges with T. cruzi, whereas all control mice died before 30 days post-infection. Vaccination also induced a strong decrease in chronic tissue parasitism and generated immunological memory that allowed vaccinated and infected animals to control both the reactivation of the infection after immunosuppression and a second challenge with T. cruzi. Interestingly, inoculation with wild-type baculovirus partially protected the mice against T. cruzi. In brief, we demonstrated for the first time that the combination of the baculovirus platform and the TcTASV family provides effective protection against Trypanosoma cruzi, which is a promising vaccine for Chagas disease.
Defining a metagenomic threshold for detecting low abundances of Providencia alcalifaciens in canine faecal samples
Authors: Aardal Anja Maria , Soltvedt Eiril Moen , Nørstebø Simen Foyn , Haverkamp Thomas H. A. , Rodriguez-Campos Sabrina , Skancke Ellen , Llarena Ann-Katrin
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea syndrome (AHDS) in dogs is a condition of unknown aetiology. Providencia alcalifaciens is suspected to play a role in the disease as it was commonly found in dogs suffering from AHDS during a Norwegian outbreak in 2019. The role of this bacterium as a constituent of the canine gut microbiota is unknown, hence this study set out to investigate its occurrence in healthy dogs using metagenomics.

Materials and methods

To decrease the likelihood of false detection, we established a metagenomic threshold for P. alcalifaciens by spiking culture-negative stool samples with a range of bacterial dilutions and analysing these by qPCR and shotgun metagenomics. The detection limit for P. alcalifaciens was determined and used to establish a metagenomic threshold. The threshold was validated on naturally contaminated faecal samples with known cultivation status for P. alcalifaciens. Finally, the metagenomic threshold was used to determine the occurrence of P. alcalifaciens in shotgun metagenomic datasets from canine faecal samples (n=362) collected in the HUNT One Health project.

Results

The metagenomic assay and qPCR had a detection limit of 1.1x103 CFU P. alcalifaciens per faecal sample, which corresponded to a Cq value of 31.4 and 569 unique k-mer counts by shotgun metagenomics. Applying this metagenomic threshold to 362 faecal metagenomic datasets from healthy dogs, P. alcalifaciens was found in only 1.1% (95% CI [0.0, 6.8]) of the samples, and then in low relative abundances (median: 0.04%; range: 0.00 to 0.81%). The sensitivity of the qPCR and shotgun metagenomics assay was low, as only 40% of culture-positive samples were also positive by qPCR and metagenomics.

Discussion

Using our detection limit, the occurrence of P. alcalifaciens in faecal samples from healthy dogs was low. Given the low sensitivity of the metagenomic assay, these results do not rule out a significantly higher occurrence of this bacterium at a lower abundance.
Supporting social interactions to improve MOOC participants’ learning outcomes: a literature review
Authors: Loh Hong Sen , Martins van Jaarsveld Gabrielle , Mesutoglu Canan , Baars Martine
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The need for more scalable, accessible and affordable education, coupled with technological advancements in information sharing technology and collaborative platforms has led to the growth of MOOCs (massive open online courses). The growth of MOOCs has resulted in learning becoming increasingly distributed, affordable and flexible compared to traditional classroom education, allowing individuals in disadvantaged groups to access high quality educational materials. However, new challenges emerge, most notably with MOOCs’ low completion rates. Among the reasons for a low completion rate, lack of interaction with peers is cited as a major reason, yet, interventions to promote social interaction has received relatively less attention. From a constructivist perspective, social interactions among peers are essential in helping individuals learn. This systematic literature review aimed to understand social interaction interventions in MOOC settings. This includes constructs measured as learning outcomes and how they were measured.

Methods

Literature articles were sourced from multiple databases and filtered for inclusion using the PRISMA process and its four phases. Twenty articles were included in the final review.

Results

Results of the review showed that social interactions fall into three categories: discussion forums, learning groups and one-to-one interactions with peers. Learning outcomes investigated were grouped into four categories: knowledge, social engagement, learning engagement and learner experience.

Conclusion

Across the studies, there were clear positive effects of social interaction on learning outcomes. Intervention strategies include sending prompts for individuals to use discussion boards and also grouping learners by homogeneity based on their learning engagement. However, more experimental studies are necessary to bolster the evidence of a causal impact of social interactions. Also, further research should be done to understand potential mediating factors that contribute to the success of implementing social interactive elements in MOOCs.
Effect of mydriasis on macular and peripapillary metrics in swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography
Authors: Zhang Feng , Li Ying’an , Du Zijing , Sun Hong , Xie Lijie , Liang Yingying , Zang Siwen , Sun Wei , Yu Honghua , Hu Yijun
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The study aimed to evaluate the effect of mydriasis on macular and peripapillary metrics with swept-source optical coherence tomography angiography (SS-OCTA) in healthy subjects.

Methods

Thirty-five healthy subjects were included. The macular region was scanned by the 3×3mm mode and 6×6mm mode, and the peripapillary region was scanned by the 4.5×4.5mm mode on both eyes with SS-OCTA before and after mydriasis. Macular and peripapillary metrics, including retinal vessel density (VD) and fundus thickness were measured by the built-in program. Data of the right eye were analyzed.

Results

The signal strength of the scans was comparable before and after mydriasis (all P>0.05). There were no significant differences in foveal avascular zone (FAZ) parameters and retinal VD of most sectors in both macular and peripapillary areas (all P>0.05). Choroidal thickness was decreased, outer and whole retinal thickness was increased in most of the macular sectors after mydriasis (all P<0.05). Choroidal thickness was decreased in all the peripapillary sectors, but whole retinal thickness and GCC thickness were increased in some peripapillary sectors after mydriasis (all P<0.05).

Conclusions

FAZ parameters and retinal VD in the most macular and peripapillary regions are not affected by mydriasis. The thickness of the choroid is decreased after mydriasis, while the thickness of retinal layers in some sectors may be increased after mydriasis.
Evaluating the relationship between the proportion of X-chromosome deletions and clinical manifestations in children with turner syndrome
Authors: Wang Gaowei , Liu Xiaojing , Wang Meiye , Wang Jin , Zhang Zhenhua , Allegaert Karel , Mei Daoqi , Zhang Yaodong , Luo Shuying , Fang Yang , Li Dongxiao , Chen Yongxing , Wei Haiyan
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Analyze the relationship between changes in the proportion of X-chromosome deletions and clinical manifestations in children with Turner syndrome (TS).

Methods

X-chromosome number abnormalities in 8,635 children with growth retardation were identified using fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Meanwhile, the relationship between the proportion of X-chromosome deletions and the clinical manifestations of TS, such as face and body phenotype, cardiovascular, renal, and other comorbidities in children with TS was analyzed.

Results

A total of 389 children had X-chromosome number abnormalities, with an average age at diagnosis of 9.2 years. There was a significant increase in diagnoses around the ages of 3 and 7 years and highest number of diagnoses at 10 years of age. 130 with XO (complete loss of an X-chromosome), 205 with XO/XX, 8 with XO/XXX, 23 with XO/XX/XXX, 19 with XO/XY, and 4 with XO/XY/XYY. Body and facial phenotypes increased with higher mosaicism proportions, with a relatively high correlation shown with Pearson correlation analysis (r = 0.26, p = 1.7e-06). The incidence of congenital heart malformations was 25.56%, mainly involving a bicuspid aortic valve, and were more common in patients who had complete loss of an X-chromosome. However, this relationship was not present for renal disease (p = 0.26), central nervous system, thyroid, or liver disease.

Conclusion

The mosaicism (XO/XX) is the most common karyotype of TS in screened cases. The phenotypes in children with TS may increase with the proportion of X-chromosome deletions, but the renal disease and comorbidities did not show the same characteristics.
Case report: Management of pediatric gigantism caused by the TADopathy, X-linked acrogigantism
Authors: Caruso Manuela , Mazzatenta Diego , Asioli Sofia , Costanza Giuseppe , Trivellin Giampaolo , Franke Martin , Abboud Dayana , Hanson Julien , Raverot Véronique , Pétrossians Patrick , Beckers Albert , Cappa Marco , Daly Adrian F.
Published: February 2024

X-linked acrogigantism (X-LAG) is a rare form of pituitary gigantism that is associated with growth hormone (GH) and prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas/pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) that develop in infancy. It is caused by a duplication on chromosome Xq26.3 that leads to the misexpression of the gene GPR101, a constitutively active stimulator of pituitary GH and prolactin secretion. GPR101 normally exists within its own topologically associating domain (TAD) and is insulated from surrounding regulatory elements. X-LAG is a TADopathy in which the duplication disrupts a conserved TAD border, leading to a neo-TAD in which ectopic enhancers drive GPR101 over-expression, thus causing gigantism. Here we trace the full diagnostic and therapeutic pathway of a female patient with X-LAG from 4C-seq studies demonstrating the neo-TAD through medical and surgical interventions and detailed tumor histopathology. The complex nature of treating young children with X-LAG is illustrated, including the achievement of hormonal control using a combination of neurosurgery and adult doses of first-generation somatostatin analogs.
Environmental impact analysis of lithium iron phosphate batteries for energy storage in China
Authors: Lin Xin , Meng Wenchuan , Yu Ming , Yang Zaimin , Luo Qideng , Rao Zhi , Zhang Tiangang , Cao Yuwei
Published: February 2024

The deployment of energy storage systems can play a role in peak and frequency regulation, solve the issue of limited flexibility in cleaner power systems in China, and ensure the stability and safety of the power grid. This paper presents a comprehensive environmental impact analysis of a lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery system for the storage and delivery of 1 kW-hour of electricity. Quantities of copper, graphite, aluminum, lithium iron phosphate, and electricity consumption are set as uncertainty and sensitivity parameters with a variation of [90%, 110%]. The results show that global warming potential is 9.08E+01 kg CO2 eq. and fossil resource use is 1.21E+03 MJ, with uncertainty ranges of [8.54E+01, 9.23E+01] and [1.15E+03, 1.23E+03], respectively. Electricity consumption during the manufacture and installation process is the greatest contributor to climate change (CO2 eq. emissions), accounting for 39.71% and largely owing to non-renewable sources, followed by cathode materials at 27.85% and anode materials at 18.36%. The disposal and recycling process offers emission reductions but requires an additional 1.17% use of fossil resources. Sobol T indices for the quantity of electricity are the highest for acidification, climate change, fossil resource use, and ionizing radiation. By considering the pathway of China’s electricity mix from 2020 to 2050 under the Paris Agreement’s 2° target, the potential for environmental emission reduction in the system is evaluated. The results show that the greener electricity mix could lead to a 24.59% reduction in acidification impact, a 35.74% reduction in climate change impact, a 33.24% reduction in fossil resource use, and a 44.13% reduction in ionizing radiation impact. This study offers a comprehensive view of the environmental impact reductions associated with the lithium iron phosphate battery and its industry.
Integrating coevolutionary strategies and risk preferences: a novel supervision insight for pollutant abatement
Authors: Wang Xiaonan , Zhang Duo
Published: February 2024

The importance of pollutant abatement has been steadily growing in recent times, prompting an increased focus on developing effective regulatory mechanisms. This paper introduces a novel approach by combining theories of evolutionary games and opinion dynamics to formulate a coevolution model of game and preference. Recognizing the challenges posed by limited supervision ability and enterprises’ heterogeneous risk preferences, we propose a smart supervision mechanism. This mechanism incorporates the concepts of whitelist capability and observation period to establish intelligent supervision. Simulation results demonstrate the regulator’s ability to accurately discern enterprises’ preferences based on decision-making differences. The smart supervision mechanism proves to be more effective in achieving pollutant abatement goals compared to random supervision. Furthermore, our findings indicate that with higher supervision ability, increasing whitelist capability enhances cooperation rates. Conversely, lower supervision ability necessitates a shorter observation period and increased whitelist capability to achieve optimal pollutant abatement results. The study highlights that enterprises with a high cooperation rate experience more significant benefits, while risk-seeking enterprises benefit less due to heightened regulator attention at the same cooperation rate.
Systemic and local immunosuppression in glioblastoma and its prognostic significance
Authors: Stepanenko Aleksei A. , Sosnovtseva Anastasiia O. , Valikhov Marat P. , Chernysheva Anastasia A. , Abramova Olga V. , Pavlov Konstantin A. , Chekhonin Vladimir P.
Published: February 2024

The effectiveness of tumor therapy, especially immunotherapy and oncolytic virotherapy, critically depends on the activity of the host immune cells. However, various local and systemic mechanisms of immunosuppression operate in cancer patients. Tumor-associated immunosuppression involves deregulation of many components of immunity, including a decrease in the number of T lymphocytes (lymphopenia), an increase in the levels or ratios of circulating and tumor-infiltrating immunosuppressive subsets [e.g., macrophages, microglia, myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs), and regulatory T cells (Tregs)], as well as defective functions of subsets of antigen-presenting, helper and effector immune cell due to altered expression of various soluble and membrane proteins (receptors, costimulatory molecules, and cytokines). In this review, we specifically focus on data from patients with glioblastoma/glioma before standard chemoradiotherapy. We discuss glioblastoma-related immunosuppression at baseline and the prognostic significance of different subsets of circulating and tumor-infiltrating immune cells (lymphocytes, CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, Tregs, natural killer (NK) cells, neutrophils, macrophages, MDSCs, and dendritic cells), including neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), focus on the immune landscape and prognostic significance of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-mutant gliomas, proneural, classical and mesenchymal molecular subtypes, and highlight the features of immune surveillance in the brain. All attempts to identify a reliable prognostic immune marker in glioblastoma tissue have led to contradictory results, which can be explained, among other things, by the unprecedented level of spatial heterogeneity of the immune infiltrate and the significant phenotypic diversity and (dys)functional states of immune subpopulations. High NLR is one of the most repeatedly confirmed independent prognostic factors for shorter overall survival in patients with glioblastoma and carcinoma, and its combination with other markers of the immune response or systemic inflammation significantly improves the accuracy of prediction; however, more prospective studies are needed to confirm the prognostic/predictive power of NLR. We call for the inclusion of dynamic assessment of NLR and other blood inflammatory markers (e.g., absolute/total lymphocyte count, platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio, lymphocyte-to-monocyte ratio, systemic immune-inflammation index, and systemic immune response index) in all neuro-oncology studies for rigorous evaluation and comparison of their individual and combinatorial prognostic/predictive significance and relative superiority.
Associations of the circulating levels of cytokines with risk of systemic sclerosis: a bidirectional Mendelian randomized study
Authors: Jiang Zong , Yao Xiaoling , Lan Weiya , Tang Fang , Ma Wukai , Yao Xueming , Chen Changming , Cai Xin
Published: February 2024

Objective

Systemic sclerosis(SSc) remains unclear, studies suggest that inflammation may be linked to its pathogenesis. Hence, we conducted a bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to evaluate the association between cytokine and growth factor cycling levels and the risk of SSc onset.

Methods

In our study, the instrumental variables(IVs) for circulating cytokines were sourced from the genome-wide association study (GWAS) dataset of 8293 Finnish individuals. The SSc data comprised 302 cases and 213145 controls, and was included in the GWAS dataset. We employed four methods for the MR analysis: MR Egger, Inverse variance weighted (IVW), Weighted medium, and Weighted Mode, with IVW being the primary analytical method. Sensitivity analyses were performed using heterogeneity testing, horizontal pleiotropy testing, and the Leave One Out (LOO) method. We also conducted a reverse MR analysis to determine any reverse causal relationship between SSc and circulating cytokines.

Results

After Bonferroni correction, MR analysis revealed that the Interleukin-5 (IL-5) cycle level was associated with a reduced risk of SSc [odds ratio (OR)=0.48,95% confidence interval (CI): 0.27-0.84, P=0.01]. It also indicated that the Stem cell growth factor beta (SCGF-β) cycling level might elevate the risk of SSc (OR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.01-1.83, P = 0.04). However, the reverse MR analysis did not establish a causal relationship between SSc and circulating cytokine levels. Additionally, sensitivity analysis outcomes affirm the reliability of our results.

Conclusion

Our MR study suggests potential causal relationships between IL-5, SCGF-β, and the risk of SSc. Further research is essential to determine how IL-5 and SCGF-β influence the development of SSc.
TLR5-deficiency controls dendritic cell subset development in an autoimmune diabetes-susceptible model
Authors: Pearson James Alexander , Hu Youjia , Peng Jian , Wong F. Susan , Wen Li
Published: February 2024

Introduction

The incidence of the autoimmune disease, type 1 diabetes (T1D), has been increasing worldwide and recent studies have shown that the gut microbiota are associated with modulating susceptibility to T1D. Toll-like receptor 5 (TLR5) recognizes bacterial flagellin and is widely expressed on many cells, including dendritic cells (DCs), which are potent antigen-presenting cells (APCs). TLR5 modulates susceptibility to obesity and alters metabolism through gut microbiota; however, little is known about the role TLR5 plays in autoimmunity, especially in T1D.

Methods

To fill this knowledge gap, we generated a TLR5-deficient non-obese diabetic (NOD) mouse, an animal model of human T1D, for study.

Results

We found that TLR5-deficiency led to a reduction in CD11c+ DC development in utero, prior to microbial colonization, which was maintained into adulthood. This was associated with a bias in the DC populations expressing CD103, with or without CD8α co-expression, and hyper-secretion of different cytokines, both in vitro (after stimulation) and directly ex vivo. We also found that TLR5-deficient DCs were able to promote polyclonal and islet antigen-specific CD4+ T cell proliferation and proinflammatory cytokine secretion. Interestingly, only older TLR5-deficient NOD mice had a greater risk of developing spontaneous T1D compared to wild-type mice.

Discussion

In summary, our data show that TLR5 modulates DC development and enhances cytokine secretion and diabetogenic CD4+ T cell responses. Further investigation into the role of TLR5 in DC development and autoimmune diabetes may give additional insights into the pathogenesis of Type 1 diabetes.
Serum high mobility group box 1 as a potential biomarker for the progression of kidney disease in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Liu Tongtong , Zhao Hailing , Wang Ying , Qu Peng , Wang Yanmei , Wu Xiai , Zhao Tingting , Yang Liping , Mao Huimin , Peng Liang , Zhan Yongli , Li Ping
Published: February 2024

Background

As a damage-associated molecular pattern protein, high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) is associated with kidney and systemic inflammation. The predictive and therapeutic value of HMGB1 as a biomarker has been confirmed in various diseases. However, its value in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) remains unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the correlation between serum and urine HMGB1 levels and DKD progression.

Methods

We recruited 196 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), including 109 with DKD and 87 T2DM patients without DKD. Additionally, 60 healthy participants without T2DM were also recruited as controls. Serum and urine samples were collected for HMGB1 analysis. Simultaneously, tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 1A (TNFR-1) in serum and kidney injury molecule (KIM-1) in urine samples were evaluated for comparison.

Results

Serum and urine HMGB1 levels were significantly higher in patients with DKD than in patients with T2DM and healthy controls. Additionally, serum HMGB1 levels significantly and positively correlated with serum TNFR-1 (R2 = 0.567, p<0.001) and urine KIM-1 levels (R2 = 0.440, p<0.001), and urine HMGB1 has a similar correlation. In the population with T2DM, the risk of DKD progression increased with an increase in serum HMGB1 levels. Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that elevated serum HMGB1 level was an independent risk factor for renal function progression in patients with DKD, and regression analysis did not change in the model corrected for multiple variables. The restricted cubic spline depicted a nonlinear relationship between serum HMGB1 and renal function progression in patients with DKD (p-nonlinear=0.007, p<0.001), and this positive effect remained consistent across subgroups.

Conclusion

Serum HMGB1 was significantly correlated with DKD and disease severity. When the HMGB1 level was ≥27 ng/ml, the risk of renal progression increased sharply, indicating that serum HMGB1 can be used as a potential biomarker for the diagnosis of DKD progression.
IL-17A inhibitors alleviate Psoriasis with concomitant restoration of intestinal/skin microbiota homeostasis and altered microbiota function
Authors: Zhao Huixia , Shang Lili , Zhang Yuting , Liang Zhaojun , Wang Nan , Zhang Qian , Gao Chong , Luo Jing
Published: February 2024

Background

Disturbed gut microbiota and associated metabolic dysfunction exist in Psoriasis. Despite the growing use of interleukin-17 inhibitor (anti-IL17) therapy, the effect of anti-IL17 on gut/skin microbiota function is not fully understood in patients with Psoriasis.

Objective

Therefore, we explored whether Psoriasis is associated with alterations in selected gut/skin microbiota in a study cohort, and a longitudinal cohort study to reveal the effects of IL-17A inhibitor treatment on gut microbiota in Psoriasis.

Methods

In a case-control study, 14 patients with Psoriasis and 10 age, sex and body mass index-matched Healthy Controls were recruited. Longitudinal mapping of the gut microbiome was performed using 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Mouse models were used to further study and validate the interrelationship between the skin microbiome and the gut microbiome in Psoriasis. PICRUST2 was applied to predict the function of the bacterial community.

Results

In Psoriasis patients, gut microbiota dysbiosis was present with increased heterogeneity: decreased Bacteroidota and increased Firmicutes as well as Actinobacteriota predominating in Psoriasis. Escherichia-Shigella enrichment was associated with reduction in serum levels of total bile acid and markers in Apoptotic pathways. After IL-17A inhibitor treatment in Psoriasis patients, longitudinal studies observed a trend toward a normal distribution of the gut microbiome and modulation of apoptosis-related metabolic pathways. Results from a mouse model showed dysregulation of the skin microbiota in Psoriasis characterized by Staphylococcus colonization.

Conclusion

The psoriatic gut/skin microbiota exhibits loss of community stability and pathogen enrichment. IL-17A inhibitors restore microbiota homeostasis and metabolic pathways, reduce pro-inflammatory cytokine expression, and alleviate symptoms in patients with Psoriasis.
Carcinogenic mechanisms of virus-associated lymphoma
Authors: Zhang Ying , Guo Wei , Zhan Zhumei , Bai Ou
Published: February 2024

The development of lymphoma is a complex multistep process that integrates numerous experimental findings and clinical data that have not yet yielded a definitive explanation. Studies of oncogenic viruses can help to deepen insight into the pathogenesis of lymphoma, and identifying associations between lymphoma and viruses that are established and unidentified should lead to cellular and pharmacologically targeted antiviral strategies for treating malignant lymphoma. This review focuses on the pathogenesis of lymphomas associated with hepatitis B and C, Epstein-Barr, and human immunodeficiency viruses as well as Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus to clarify the current status of basic information and recent advances in the development of virus-associated lymphomas.
Impact of dry eye disease treatment on patient quality of life
Authors: Lin Cheng-Wei , Lin Meng-Yin , Huang Jin-Wei , Wang Tsung-Jen , Lin I-Chan
Published: February 2024

Dry eye disease (DED) is a common multifactorial disease affecting a substantial proportion of the population worldwide. Objective tests and subjective symptoms evaluation are necessary to assess DED. Although various treatments have been introduced, accurately evaluating the efficacy of those treatments is difficult because of the disparity between diagnostic tests and patient-reported symptoms. We reviewed the questionnaires used to evaluate DED and the improvements of quality of life with various treatments. In addition, we highlighted the importance of patient-reported outcomes (PRO) assessments for evaluating the effect of DED treatments. Given that the assessment of DED treatment effectiveness substantially relies on individual ocular experiences, acquiring qualitative PRO data is essential for comprehensive evaluation and optimal treatment management. Clinicians should not only focus on improving objective symptoms but also prioritize the well-being of patients in clinical management.
Read-through transcription of tRNA underlies the cell cycle-dependent dissociation of IHF from the DnaA-inactivating sequence datA
Authors: Kasho Kazutoshi , Sakai Ryuji , Ito Kosuke , Nakagaki Wataru , Satomura Rion , Jinnouchi Takafumi , Ozaki Shogo , Katayama Tsutomu
Published: February 2024

Timely initiation of chromosomal DNA replication in Escherichia coli is achieved by cell cycle-coordinated regulation of the replication origin, oriC, and the replication initiator, ATP-DnaA. Cellular levels of ATP-DnaA increase and peak at the time for initiation at oriC, after which hydrolysis of DnaA-bound ATP causes those to fall, yielding initiation-inactive ADP-DnaA. This hydrolysis is facilitated by the chromosomal locus datA located downstream of the tRNA-Gly (glyV-X-Y) operon, which possesses a cluster of DnaA-binding sequences and a single binding site (IBS) for the DNA bending protein IHF (integration host factor). While IHF binding activates the datA function and is regulated to occur specifically at post-initiation time, the underlying regulatory mechanisms remain obscure. Here, we demonstrate that datA-IHF binding at pre-initiation time is down-regulated depending on the read-through transcription of datA IBS initiated at the glyV-X-Y promoter. During the cell cycle, the level of read-through transcription, but not promoter activity, fluctuated in a manner inversely related to datA-IHF binding. Transcription from the glyV-X-Y promoter was predominantly interrupted at datA IBS by IHF binding. The terminator/attenuator sequence of the glyV-X-Y operon, as well as DnaA binding within datA overall, contributed to attenuation of transcription upstream of datA IBS, preserving the timely fluctuation of read-through transcription. These findings provide a mechanistic insight of tRNA transcription-dependent datA-IHF regulation, in which an unidentified factor is additionally required for the timely datA-IHF dissociation, and support the significance of datA for controlling the cell cycle progression as a connecting hub of tRNA production and replication initiation.
Porcine alveolar macrophages host proteins interacting with African swine fever virus p72
Authors: Weng Zhijun , Zheng Xiaoyu , Liang Yifan , Chen Xiongnan , Peng Qin , Zhang Guihong , Gong Lang , Zheng Zezhong
Published: February 2024

Introduction

African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a highly contagious virus that spreads rapidly and has a mortality rate of up to 100% in domestic pigs, leading to significant economic losses in the pig industry. The major capsid protein p72 of ASFV plays a critical role in viral invasion and immune evasion.

Methods

In this study, we used yeast two-hybrid screening to identify host proteins interacting with p72 in porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) and verified these proteins using confocal microscopy and immunoprecipitation techniques.

Results and Discussion

We validated 13 proteins that interact with p72, including CD63, B2M, YTHDF2, FTH1, SHFL, CDK5RAP3, VIM, PELO, TIMP2, PHYH, C1QC, CMAS, and ERCC1. Enrichment analysis and protein-protein interaction network analysis of these interacting proteins revealed their involvement in virus attachment, invasion, replication, assembly, and immune regulation. These findings provide new insights into the function of p72 and valuable information for future research on the interaction between ASFV and host proteins.
Assessment of focused ultrasound stimulation to induce peripheral nerve activity and potential damage in vivo
Authors: Rodríguez-Meana Bruno , Santos-Nogueira Eva , Trujillo-Vázquez Sònia , Jakob Anette , Udina Esther , Fournelle Marc , Navarro Xavier
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Peripheral neuroprostheses are aimed to restore loss of sensory and motor functions by interfacing axons in the peripheral nerves. Most common interfaces in neuroprostheses are electrodes that establish electrical connection with peripheral axons. However, some challenges arise related to long-term functionality, durability, and body response. Recently, focused ultrasound stimulation (FUS) has emerged as a non-invasive approach to modulate the nervous system. However, it is controversial whether FUS can induce axon depolarization.

Methods

We have assessed FUS applied in vivo to the rat peripheral nerve, with two objectives: first, to test whether FUS activates peripheral nerves under different stimulation conditions, and second, to evaluate if FUS inflicts damage to the nerve. FUS was delivered with three ultrasound transducers (Sonic Concept H115, H107, and H102) covering the largest set of parameters examined for FUS of peripheral nerves so far.

Results

We did not obtain reliable evoked action potentials in either nerves or muscles, under any FUS condition applied, neither over the skin nor directly to the nerve exposed. Additional experiments ex vivo and in vivo on mice, confirmed this conclusion. When FUS stimulation was applied directly to the exposed sciatic nerve, neuromuscular function decreased significantly, and recovered one week later, except for FUS at 0.25 MHz. Histologically, degenerating nerve fibers were observed, with a tendency to be higher with the lower FUS frequency.

Discussion

Past reports on the ability of ultrasound to stimulate the peripheral nerve are controversial. After testing a wide range of FUS conditions, we conclude that it is not a reliable and safe method for stimulating the peripheral nerve. Special consideration should be taken, especially when low-frequency FUS is applied, as it may lead to nerve damage.