bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Symbolic Signs of the Eye Concept in English Language View of the World
Authors: Akmatalieva N. , Naimanova Ch.
Published: July 2024

The article deals with the symbolic meanings and cultural meanings associated with the concept “eye” in the English linguistic picture of the world. On the basis of a comprehensive analysis of lexicographic sources, phraseology, paremi, artistic discourse and corpus data a wide range of symbolic features of this concept is revealed. To achieve the purpose of the article a number of methods were used: linguocultural, paremiological, linguistic and linguistic-stylistic analysis, as well as the analysis of artistic discourse. It is established that the concept "eye" in English linguoculture symbolizes a “window” for comprehending the inner world of a person and reflects ideas about soul, emotions, personal qualities. At the same time, eyes are metaphorically associated with perception, aesthetic pleasure, inspiration, insight, but also greed, sinfulness, threat and cruel retribution. The revealed richness and ambivalence of symbolic meanings are explained by the cultural significance of the concept “eye” in the English tradition, its deep roots in Christianity, paganism, folklore, literature and art. The symbolism of eyes represents the national values of the English — the search for truth, love of beauty, thirst for knowledge, but also negative features that require attention. It is concluded that the concept “eye” is one of the main codes of English linguoculture, embodying the originality of the national worldview through metaphorical conceptualization of the most important “window” for cognition of reality.
Good and Evil Ethical Concepts in the Linguistic Picture of the World of Kyrgyz
Authors: Matikeeva A.
Published: July 2024

This article analyses actual problems of cognitive linguistics, intensively developing linguistic direction since the 80s of the XX century. The study concisely conducted a scientific and theoretical analysis of cognitivism, the object of the study of which becomes the human mind, thinking and mental processes. The formation of a concept as a basic concept of cognitive linguistics is connected with cognitive activity, world perception of a person. The concept as a result of national linguo culture reflects national, spiritual and cultural values in the linguistic picture of the world of any ethnic group. It is noted that language is a manifestation of cognitive processes, “activity of the mind” is studied on the material of language i.e. language means. The article is devoted to the analysis of ethical concepts “good” and “evil” in the language consciousness of the Kyrgyz people. It is noted that the key tokens are good and evil. The study is conducted on the material of analysis of lexical meanings of linguistic units with morphemes: zhakshy, zhaman, Kyrgyz proverb, a passage from the Epic of Manas, consisting of opposition “good” and “evil”. The article briefly describes the essence of the philosophy of good and evil of the Kyrgyz people, which reflects humanistic ideas, moral and ethical, national values, ethnic peculiarities of mentality of the Kyrgyz people. In them, good stands for love, good, success, faith, hope, honor and dignity, a sense of duty, and evil is manifested in destruction, greedy profligacy, slyness, anger, etc. The study notes that the conceptual part of the structure of concepts “good” and “evil” is “multiple and complex, as they use figurative expressions, which include purely personal perception, linguistic mentality and means of artistic expression. It has been determined that the moral and ethical concepts of “good” and “evil” are a neglected topic in Kyrgyz linguistics. They have a special place in the linguistic consciousness of the Kyrgyz people and require further in-depth study.
Comparative Analysis of Phraseological Locutions of the Russian and Turkish Languages of a Perception Semantic Field
Authors: Guseinova Z.
Published: July 2024

Phraseological locutions are an important part of a language, reflecting the cultural and cognitive aspects of a society. The article analyzes phraseological locutions in the Turkish language with a focus on a perception semantic component. The research is based on collecting and analyzing phraseological locutions. The purpose of the paper is to identify the main semantic subjects associated with perception, as well as their interpretation and explanation in the context of Turkish culture and mentality. -
TERTIB PENGELOLAAN ARSIP DESA UNTUK MEWUJUDKAN PEMERINTAHAN DESA YANG AKUNTABEL
Authors: Riscal Detty Agustin , Laelatunnufus Alfiatmi , Aminullah Andi , Irawansyah Irawansyah , Adiputra Aulia Rahman , Sahbany Sri , Iswadi Khalid
Published: July 2024

Desa Dasan Tapen menghadapi tantangan dalam pemahaman tentang pentingnya pengelolaan arsip yang tertib di kalangan pemerintah desa dan staf administrasi, keterbatasan sumber daya manusia, infrastruktur teknologi yang terbatas, dan kurangnya pemahaman tentang praktik terbaik dalam pengelolaan arsip, kebijakan dan prosedur yang dibutuhkan untuk mendukung pengelolaan arsip yang tertib dan efektif, pelatihan dan pembinaan untuk meningkatkan keterampilan dalam pengelolaan arsip yang efektif bagi staf desa. Tujuan dari pengabdian tersebut adalah untuk meningkatkan pemahaman tentang pentingnya pengelolaan arsip yang tertib di kalangan pemerintah desa, staf administrasi, dan tokoh Masyarakat, keterbatasan sumber daya manusia, infrastruktur teknologi yang terbatas, dan kurangnya pemahaman tentang praktik terbaik dalam pengelolaan arsip, Mendorong penggunaan teknologi informasi yang tepat guna untuk meningkatkan efisiensi dan efektivitas pengelolaan arsip desa, Mengembangkan kebijakan dan prosedur yang sesuai untuk mendukung pengelolaan arsip yang tertib dan efektif, Memberdayakan pemerintah desa dan staf administrasi melalui pelatihan, pembinaan, dan bimbingan untuk meningkatkan keterampilan dalam pengelolaan arsip yang efektif, Mengimplementasikan praktik pengelolaan arsip yang lebih baik. Metode kegiatan yang dilakukan berupa Workshop dan Pelatihan, Konsultasi Langsung, Penyusunan Materi dan Panduan, Demonstrasi Teknologi Informasi, Diskusi Kelompok, Pemantauan dan Evaluasi. Hasil kegiatan berupa Peningkatan Kesadaran dan Pemahaman, Identifikasi Tantangan Utama, Peningkatan Penggunaan Teknologi Informasi, Pembentukan Kebijakan dan Prosedur, Pemberdayaan Pemerintah Desa dan Staf Administrasi, Implementasi Praktik Pengelolaan Arsip yang Lebih Baik
OPTIMALISASI PEMAKAIAN MICROSOFT EXCEL UNTUK PEMBENAHAN DATA PENDUDUK DI DESA LANTAN
Authors: Qudsi Jihadil , Setiawan Hendra , Anas Andi Sofyan , Nawawi Muhammad , Halid Idham
Published: July 2024

Kegiatan administrasi desa menjadi tonggak dalam pendataan penduduk. Kantor desa harus memiliki sistem administrasi yang bagus agar pendataan penduduk menjadi lebih mudah. Program pengabdian masyarakat ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pelatihan Microsoft Excel kepada perangkat desa di Desa Lantan. Diharapkan, melalui pelatihan ini, perangkat desa dapat meningkatkan keterampilan mereka dalam penggunaan Microsoft Excel, sehingga administrasi kependudukan di Desa Lantan dapat dioptimalkan. Tahapan kegiatan terbagi menjadi tahapan persiapan, pelaksanaan, dan penutup. Dengan nilai p value (0,005) sehingga memberikan keputusan bahwa terjadi peningkatan kemampuan peserta perangkat desa Lantan dalam pelatihan Microsoft Excel. Pengabdian masyarakat ini memberikan hasil berupa peningkatan kemampuan peserta sehingga dapat mengoptimalkan penggunaan Microsoft Excel untuk pembenahan data di Desa Lantan.
The Tradition of Russian Independent Theological Thought: A Complex Interplay between Believers, the Orthodox Church and the State in the Case of the Conflict in Ukraine
Authors: Husquinet Bruno
Published: July 2024

The construction of the Russian state has been closely linked with the development of the autocephalous Russian Orthodox Church. Russian identity is deeply rooted in Orthodoxy: Russian literature, music, architecture and philosophy all bear a strong religious mark. The birth of the Russian state is also tied to the concept of Moscow as the Third Rome. Over time, the head of the Russian state has been invested with this mission to preserve orthodoxy embodied in Russian statehood. The attempts of the state to politicise religious institutions or to use religious teachings for political gains are not a new phenomenon and are certainly apparent to Russian Orthodoxy, including in the context of the conflict in Ukraine. The disturbing absence of distance displayed by the Church authorities towards the use of force has isolated the Patriarch, but has also triggered discontent within the ranks of the clergy. Dissonant voices have spoken regardless of the pressure exerted to silence them. In the complex history of State—Church relations, the symphony between the temporal and spiritual powers has fluctuated from complete subjugation of the Church under the authority of the State to a more autonomous and independent Church. On the margins of this volatile relationship, Orthodox believers and movements have always emerged to challenge both. This article pays tribute to the long tradition of dissonant Russian Orthodox voices and attempts to demonstrate the continuity of this tradition in the context of the conflict in Ukraine.
The Motives of the Russian War on Ukraine: Corruption, Empire, Philosophy, Raison d’état and Religion
Authors: Govorov Anthony
Published: July 2024

This article examines the motives for Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The topic is explored through five principles developed by Kenneth Burke to analyse motives: act, scene, agent, agency and purpose. The major claim is that the war is being waged to ensure the longevity of the Putin regime and so allow the corrupt and power-hungry political elite to retain their positions. The kleptocratic state is kept afloat by means of waging war only through a system which can implicate wealthy and powerful individuals in serious crimes at any moment, suppresses dissent and produces expansive propaganda for the broader population. This war is a result of the privatisation of the political state and its deliberate transformation into the state of nature, which poses a threat not only to Ukraine, but to Russia itself and the entire world.
Eastern Orthodox War Justification and Ecclesial Dilemmas Arising from the War in Ukraine
Authors: Stoyanov Yuri
Published: July 2024

The escalation of ecclesial and religio-political conflicts since Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has further complicated the convoluted ecclesial situation in Ukraine and has been addressed in a series of sermons, formal statements and documents issued by senior Russian and Ukrainian ecclesiastical figures. Their ideological and theological rhetoric demonstrates the active participation of senior Russian Orthodox clerics in the justification of the Russian military effort which represents some radical ruptures in Eastern Orthodox ecclesial involvement in war-making and mobilisation. The Moscow Patriarchate’s war-legitimisation stances and policies have major repercussions for the current debates on and reconceptions of the Christian just-war tradition in the frameworks of just peace, peacebuilding and reconciliation, as well as the potential key role of Christian religious actors in these processes.
American Election 2024: How the Voting Demographic is Shifting in US Elections for 2024 and Beyond.
Authors: Taylor Scott
Published: July 2024

The purpose of this paper is to open the discussion within the Political Sciences’ arena, that the voting demographic in the United States is shifting. This is an issue that both major political parties must contend with, evaluate, and prepare for in the future and I do not believe they are taking it as serious as they should. The American Political landscape is massively changing, and I would argue that we saw some of the first signs of that shift in 2020. I would further argue that we will see this shift even more evidenced in 2024. This shift can be attributed to multiple points that I intend to elaborate upon below.
Gene therapy advancements for the treatment of acquired and hereditary hearing loss
Authors: Duhon Bailey H. , Bielefeld Eric C. , Ren Yin , Naidoo Jerusha
Published: July 2024

Greater understanding of the molecular intricacies of acquired and hereditary hearing loss has spurred considerable advances in inner ear gene therapy. While approaches like cochlear amplification and cochlear implantation offer varying degrees of efficacy in restoring hearing function, there is an absence of FDA-approved pharmacotherapies targeting the underlying causes of hearing loss. Recent preclinical investigations have demonstrated promising outcomes in murine and non-human primate models, demonstrating efficient transduction and hearing recovery for both acquired and hereditary forms of hearing loss. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest developments in gene therapy for hearing loss. Specifically, we focus on conditions characterized by sensory epithelium and spiral ganglion neuron dysfunction, encompassing both hereditary and acquired etiologies. We discuss recent preclinical advancements in cell-type-specific transduction strategies and highlight key findings from clinical trials exploring gene therapy interventions for hearing loss. Additionally, we address current limitations and offer insights into future directions for advancing gene therapy as a viable treatment option for individuals with hearing loss.
Treatment of periodontal disease: does drug delivery matter?
Authors: Lima de Sousa Tarcílio , Dourado Douglas , Rodrigues Júlia Soares , de Souza Rebouças Juliana , Montes Marcos Antônio Japiassú Resende , Formiga Fabio Rocha
Published: July 2024

Graphical Abstract
Differential Talin cleavage in transformed and non-transformed cells and its consequences
Authors: Hu Xian , Jalal Salma , Yao Mingxi , Bakke Oddmund , Margadant Felix , Sheetz Michael
Published: July 2024

This study investigates differences in focal adhesion (FA) morphology and Talin cleavage levels between transformed and non-transformed cell lines. Utilizing fluorescently tagged wild-type Talin and Talin mutants with calpain cleavage site mutations, FA structures were visualized. Mutations in different Talin cleavage sites showed varying impacts on FA morphology and distribution across melanoma cell lines (Meljuso, A375P, A2058) and a non-transformed cell line (HFF). Western blot analysis, ratiometric fluorescence intensity-based measurements, and FRAP experiments revealed higher Talin cleavage levels within FAs of transformed cell lines compared to non-transformed cells. Additionally, growth assays indicated that reducing calpain cleavage levels attenuated transformed cell growth. These findings suggest that Talin cleavage level is crucial for FA morphology and assembly, with higher levels observed in transformed cells, influencing their growth dynamics.
Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry quantification of phytochemicals in Withania somnifera using data-dependent acquisition, multiple-reaction-monitoring, and parallel-reaction-monitoring with an inclusion list
Authors: Marney Luke C. , Choi Jaewoo , Alcazar Magana Armando , Yang Liping , Techen Natascha , Alam Md Nure , Brandes Mikah , Soumyanath Amala , Stevens Jan F. , Maier Claudia S.
Published: July 2024

Characterization of botanical extracts by mass spectrometry-based metabolomics analysis helps in determining the phytochemical composition that underlies their bioactivity and potential health benefits, while also supporting reproducibility of effects in clinical trials. The quantification of seven withanolides in Withania somnifera using three mass-spectrometry methods was evaluated using Deming regression. Two high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry methods were used, one operating in data-dependent acquisition mode and the other in parallel-reaction-monitoring mode with an inclusion list. The two high-resolution time-of-flight mass spectrometry methods were compared to a multiple-reaction-monitoring method. We evaluated in-source fragmentation of steroidal glycosides and optimized the methods accordingly. A novel software approach to integrating parallel-reaction-monitoring data acquired with an inclusion list was developed. Combining and comparing quantitative results allowed for quantitative specificity, good precision, and adjustment of instrument source conditions for optimal quantification by multiple-reaction-monitoring mass spectrometry, an analytical method that is widely accessible in analytical and phytochemical laboratories.
Transediting the terms used for describing the US dollar in Arabic and English news websites: a triangulational study of transediting strategies adopted in four channels
Authors: Alwazna Rafat Y. , Al Hamed Alawia A.
Published: July 2024

News translation, which is often known as news transediting, which is concerned with the translation of materials for print and/or online mass media, has long stimulated interest within the field of translation studies. The present paper explores the strategies of transediting the terms used for describing the US dollar in the websites of four news channels, namely: Alarabiya, Aljazeera, BBC and CNN between Arabic and English from the first of July 2022 to the thirty-first of December 2022. The paper conducts triangulational analysis to identify the type and frequency of the transediting strategies used in each channel, present how certain examples of each strategy are adopted and demonstrate the similarities and differences in the type and frequency of the transediting strategies employed between the channels. The paper argues that the choice of the transediting strategy is based on the type of audience, context, the channel’s policy and the type of information intended for delivery. This paper offers a baseline for exploring the strategies of transediting the terms used for describing the US dollar in both Arabic and English news websites of the aforementioned channels, which may have implications for exploring other transediting strategies used in other news websites of different channels broadcast in different languages.
The associations of Tibetan Plateau spring snow cover with East Asian summer monsoon rainfall before and after 1990
Authors: Wijngaard René Reijer , Oh Hyoeun , Khanal Sonu , Yoon Arim , van de Berg Willem Jan , An Soon-Il
Published: July 2024

In recent decades, the existence of a relationship between snow cover on the Tibetan Plateau (TP) and East Asian summer monsoon (EASM) rainfall has been emphasized. According to recently published studies this snow-monsoon relationship experienced a shift after 1990. Although the changing snow-monsoon relationship has been studied, the causes of the interdecadal changes remain unclear. This study assesses the associations of TP spring snow cover with EASM rainfall before and after 1990 and explores what possible mechanisms could be responsible for the interdecadal changes. Correlation and composite analyses were used to assess the strength of the relationship between TP spring snow cover and EASM rainfall and to analyze the atmospheric and land surface patterns associated with high snow cover. The outcomes suggest that the relationship between TP spring snow cover and EASM rainfall changes from partially negative to positive over all regions of the TP from 1968–1990 (P1) to 1991–2019 (P2), implying that more snow cover is associated with less (more) EASM rainfall during P1 (P2). In P1, years with high snow cover are associated with an anomalous cyclone southwest of the TP (positioned over Iran and Pakistan) in spring, which persists into the following summer, partly due to the underlying snow cover. The anomalous cyclone is accompanied by downstream anomalies over East Asia, which form a strong east-west oriented wave pattern and induce a northerly inflow of dry air over East Asia, reducing rainfall over the northern EASM domain. In P2, high snow cover years are associated with an anomalous cyclone over the western TP, which weakens and loses its significance in May-June and summer, partly due to a decline in snow forcing. Southeastward propagation of wave energy in May-June initiates the formation of an anomalous anticyclone over southeastern China and the western North Pacific. Concurrently, a meridional circulation develops over East Asia that enhances the southwesterly moisture inflow, resulting in increased EASM rainfall. The changing snow-monsoon relationship can be linked to different wave train patterns resulting from changes in the background zonal wind and meridional temperature gradients. This research contributes to a better understanding of the changing snow-monsoon relationship.
Improving the training on creating a distance learning platform in higher education: evaluating their results
Authors: Rakhmetov Maxot , Kuanbayeva Bayan , Saltanova Galiya , Zhusupkalieva Galiya , Abdykerimova Elmira
Published: July 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the world, and one of the many changes it has brought about is the shift to distance learning in Kazakhstan’s universities. However, both teachers and students were ill-prepared for this sudden change. In some remote villages, lack of internet access meant that students had no access to online classes at all. To address this issue, universities had to rent foreign platforms, but these platforms had inadequate information security measures in place. To address these challenges, it is necessary to create a robust and secure independent platform for distance learning. This platform will be particularly important for training teachers of “Informatics” in the context of distance learning. This article presents methods and schemes for creating a distance learning platform specifically for training computer science teachers. The introduction of the “Education-Online Platform” discipline at the university has yielded promising results. As a result, a distance learning platform has been created, and this new discipline has been introduced and tested in the educational program of a particular university in the training of future specialists.
Role of physical therapists in providing care to older adults in welfare shelters during the hyper-acute phase of a disaster: lessons learned in Wajima City, Japan, after the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake
Authors: Abe Toshiki , Saito Hiroaki , Yamamoto Chika , Eguchi Yuichiro , Sato Kei , Matsumoto Misato , Hitachi Kengo , Inoue Sakiko , Zhao Tianchen , Endo Michioki , Sawano Toyoaki , Ozaki Akihiko , Tsubokura Masaharu , Beniya Hiroyuki
Published: July 2024

Natural disasters pose significant challenges to affected communities, particularly vulnerable populations such as older adults. The aftermath of the Great East Japan Earthquake highlighted the necessity of welfare shelters to provide essential care. However, little is known about the specific role of physical therapists in these shelters. The aim of this article is to share the experiences and contributions of physical therapists in a welfare shelter in Wajima, Ishikawa Prefecture, immediately after the 2024 Noto Peninsula earthquake. The earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.6, damaged 76,589 houses, injured over 1,100 people, resulting in 245 deaths. The authors comprised a multidisciplinary team, including physical therapists, that provided short-term medical support at a welfare shelter in Wajima. Through several examples, we describe the contribution of physical therapists to evacuees' health outcomes. Physical therapists played multifaceted roles in the welfare shelter, optimizing living environments, conducting physical screenings, and delivering continuous medical care, including respiratory care and exercise programs. The involvement of physical therapists in post-disaster evacuation shelters is crucial for enhancing emergency health care delivery and promoting community resilience.
Genetically predicted elevated circulating 3,4-dihydroxybutyrate levels mediate the association between family Christensenellaceae and osteoporosis risk: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Hou Dalong , Yang Yang
Published: July 2024

Objective

To investigate the impact of gut microbiota on osteoporosis and identify the mediating role of blood metabolites in this process.

Methods

This two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) study utilized summary level data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Gut microbiota GWAS data were obtained from the MiBio-Gen consortium meta-analysis (n=13,266), while osteoporosis summary statistics were sourced from the FinnGen consortium R9 release data (7300 cases and 358,014 controls). Metabolite data, including 1400 metabolites or metabolite ratios, were derived from a study involving 8,299 unrelated individuals. The primary MR method employed was the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method. Reverse MR analysis was conducted on bacteria causally associated with osteoporosis in forward MR. The gut microbiota with the smallest p-value was selected as the top influencing factor for subsequent mediation analysis. A two-step MR approach quantified the proportion of the blood metabolite effect on gut microbiota influencing osteoporosis. IVW and Egger methods were used to assess heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy.

Results

IVW estimates indicated a suggestive effect of family Christensenellaceae on osteoporosis (odds ratio(OR) = 1.292, 95% confidence interval(CI): 1.110–1.503, P =9.198 × 10−4). Reverse MR analysis revealed no significant causal effect of osteoporosis on family Christensenellaceae (OR = 0.947, 95% CI: 0.836–1.072, P =0.386). The proportion of the effect of family Christensenellaceae on osteoporosis mediated by circulating levels of 3,4-dihydroxybutyrate was 9.727%. No significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy was detected in the instrumental variables used for MR analysis.

Conclusion

This study establishes a causal link between family Christensenellaceae and osteoporosis, with a minor proportion of the effect mediated by elevated circulating levels of 3,4-dihydroxybutyrate. Further randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are warranted to validate this conclusion.
Shared genetic correlations between kidney diseases and sepsis
Authors: Zhang Tianlong , Cui Ying , Jiang Siyi , Jiang Lu , Song Lijun , Huang Lei , Li Yong , Yao Jiali , Li Min
Published: July 2024

Background

Clinical studies have indicated a comorbidity between sepsis and kidney diseases. Individuals with specific mutations that predispose them to kidney conditions are also at an elevated risk for developing sepsis, and vice versa. This suggests a potential shared genetic etiology that has not been fully elucidated.

Methods

Summary statistics data on exposure and outcomes were obtained from genome-wide association meta-analysis studies. We utilized these data to assess genetic correlations, employing a pleiotropy analysis method under the composite null hypothesis to identify pleiotropic loci. After mapping the loci to their corresponding genes, we conducted pathway analysis using Generalized Gene-Set Analysis of GWAS Data (MAGMA). Additionally, we utilized MAGMA gene-test and eQTL information (whole blood tissue) for further determination of gene involvement. Further investigation involved stratified LD score regression, using diverse immune cell data, to study the enrichment of SNP heritability in kidney-related diseases and sepsis. Furthermore, we employed Mendelian Randomization (MR) analysis to investigate the causality between kidney diseases and sepsis.

Results

In our genetic correlation analysis, we identified significant correlations among BUN, creatinine, UACR, serum urate, kidney stones, and sepsis. The PLACO analysis method identified 24 pleiotropic loci, pinpointing a total of 28 nearby genes. MAGMA gene-set enrichment analysis revealed a total of 50 pathways, and tissue-specific analysis indicated significant enrichment of five pairs of pleiotropic results in kidney tissue. MAGMA gene test and eQTL information (whole blood tissue) identified 33 and 76 pleiotropic genes, respectively. Notably, genes PPP2R3A for BUN, VAMP8 for UACR, DOCK7 for creatinine, and HIBADH for kidney stones were identified as shared risk genes by all three methods. In a series of immune cell-type-specific enrichment analyses of pleiotropy, we identified a total of 37 immune cells. However, MR analysis did not reveal any causal relationships among them.

Conclusions

This study lays the groundwork for shared etiological factors between kidney and sepsis. The confirmed pleiotropic loci, shared pathogenic genes, and enriched pathways and immune cells have enhanced our understanding of the multifaceted relationships among these diseases. This provides insights for early disease intervention and effective treatment, paving the way for further research in this field.
Evaluating the efficacy of surgical and conservative approaches in mild autonomous cortisol secretion: a meta-analysis
Authors: Ren Xingxiang , Nan Min , Zhang Xiaomei
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The management of Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion (MACS) remains a topic of debate among clinicians, with differing opinions on the effectiveness of surgical intervention compared to conservative treatment methods. This meta-analysis provides a comprehensive assessment of available literature to determine the most effective approach for treating this condition.

Methods

On December 1, 2023, an exhaustive literature search of English databases Embase, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, as well as the Chinese databases China HowNet, Wanfang Database, SinoMed Database, and Weipu Database using the keywords “Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion”, “Subclinical Cushing’s Syndrome”, “Subclinical Hypercortisolism”, “Mild Cortisol Autonomous Secretion”, “Adrenal Incidentaloma”, “Surgical Treatment” and “Adrenalectomy”. The data were statistically analyzed using STATA version 15.0.

Results

In this comprehensive analysis involving 629 patients with MACS, the therapeutic efficacy of adrenalectomy was evident. The meta-analysis results indicate that compared to conservative treatment, surgical intervention more effectively improves obesity indicators in patients: waist circumference (SMD=-0.62, 95% CI: -1.06 to -0.18), BMI (SMD=-0.41, 95% CI: -0.62 to -0.20), enhances glycemic control: fasting blood glucose (SMD=-0.47, 95% CI: -0.68 to -0.26), glycated hemoglobin (SMD=-0.66, 95% CI: -0.95 to -0.38), improves lipid metabolism: triglycerides (SMD=-0.45, 95% CI: -0.73 to -0.16), lowers blood pressure: systolic blood pressure (SMD=-1.04, 95% CI: -1.25 to -0.83), diastolic blood pressure (SMD=-0.89, 95% CI: -1.12 to -0.65), and ameliorates hormonal metabolic disorder: 24h urinary free cortisol (SMD=-1.10, 95% CI: -1.33 to -0.87), ACTH (SMD=2.30, 95% CI: 1.63 to 2.97). All these differences are statistically significant.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis shows that, compared to conservative treatment, surgical treatment is more effective in improving obesity indicators, glycemic control, lipid metabolism, reducing blood pressure, and ameliorating hormonal metabolic disorders in patients with MACS. These statistically significant results highlight the importance of considering surgical intervention in the management of patients with MACS.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero, identifier CRD42023492527.
Digital Twin concept and architecture for fleets of hydrogen electrolysers
Authors: Alsharif Sharaf , Huxoll Nils , Wibbeke Jelke , Grimm Tobias , Brand Michael , Lehnhoff Sebastian
Published: July 2024

The expected increase in green hydrogen demand in the near future necessitates scaling-up the hydrogen production plants with the goal of reducing the hydrogen production costs. Nevertheless, a quick scale-up limits the time to test new designs, optimize operation schedules and build up knowledge for production parameters. The Digital Twin concept applied on a fleet of electrolysers is proposed as a digitization tool to contribute to this scale-up process by providing a comprehensive view of the entire electrolysers fleet as well as constructing the feedback connection to the electrolysers manufacturing process. Such Fleet Digital Twin approach can improve the efficiency and scalability of green hydrogen production using water electrolysis. This paper presents a concept of a Fleet Digital Twin and discusses its architecture requirements and design. By applying the Digital Twin concept at different levels of the system, fleet knowledge services are enabled by leveraging the availability of fleet-wide data. The proposed architecture design provides a solid foundation for future development and implementation of Fleet Digital Twins in industrial applications.
Coordinated control strategy of photovoltaic energy storage power station based on adaptive dynamic programming
Authors: Liang Shuhao , Sun Sipei , Wang Fujie
Published: July 2024

In order to solve the problem of variable steady-state operation nodes and poor coordination control effect in photovoltaic energy storage plants, the coordination control strategy of photovoltaic energy storage plants based on ADP is studied. Establish the photovoltaic energy storage power station model including photovoltaic system model, super capacitor system model and battery system model; Set the maximum limit of active power change as the power constraint condition for coordinated control of photovoltaic energy storage station; The optimal control problem of multi voltage and reactive power resource coordination is fully considered, the optimal voltage control model is established by using ADP algorithm, and the optimal coordinated control strategy is obtained by online learning the collected dynamic operation information. The experimental results show that this strategy can improve the coordinated control effect of the photovoltaic energy storage station, ensure the photovoltaic energy storage station in a stable operation state, improve the service life of the energy storage device in the photovoltaic energy storage station, and stabilize the steady-state operating node voltage within the ideal fluctuation range.
Effect mechanism of nutrients on pathogenic bacteria at the sediment-water interface in eutrophic water
Authors: Wen Sun , Yang Zhang , Biao Peng , Jing Wang
Published: July 2024

This research analyzed the structure of microbial groups in the sediment–water interface (SWI) and the relationship between the gene expression levels of two typical pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli and Enterococcus, and nutrient levels using modern biological techniques. The nutrient distribution at the SWI revealed significantly higher nutrient content in the sediment compared to the overlying water. According to Fick’s first law, the release flux indicated that PO43−-P in the upper reaches of the reservoir was deposited from the overlying water, while the release rate of NH4+-N, in addition to sedimentation, was significantly greater than that of PO43−P. The microbial community structure was primarily dominated by the genera Methyloparacoccus, Methylomonas, and Arenimonas. The abundances of E. coli and Enterococcus were higher in the surface sediment than in the overlying water. Pearson correlation analysis demonstrated that E. coli had a significant positive correlation with total nitrogen (TN) (p < 0.05) and total phosphorus (TP) (p < 0.05), whereas Enterococcus had a very significant positive correlation with TN and TP (p < 0.01).
Occurrence and risk assessment of endocrine-disrupting chemicals in wastewater treatment plants in the Chaohu Lake Basin
Authors: Han Yalin , Qi Cuicui , Niu Ziniu , Li Nini , Tang Jie
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) in effluent and residual sludge from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) pose significant environmental and human health risks due to their persistence, bioaccumulation, and difficulty in detection and degradation. This study investigates the environmental exposure and risks associated with EDCs in effluent and sludge from four WWTPs: Tangxi River (TXH), Zipeng Mountain (ZPS), Lianxi (LX), and Wang Xiaoying (WXY).

Methods: Environmental exposure indexes of EDCs were assessed in the effluent and sludge of the four WWTPs across four seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter) from October 2017 to October 2018. Detection rates of various pollutants, their seasonal and spatial characteristics, and removal rates were analyzed. Positive matrix factorization (PMF) was used for source analysis under influent data, and an ecological risk assessment was conducted using the risk quotient (RQ) method.

Results: The study found 4-n-nonylphenol (NP) and di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) had 100% detection rates in the effluent of all four WWTPs, while only DEHP showed a 100% detection rate in the sludge. Bisphenol A (BPA) exhibited the highest concentration in the TXH effluent during autumn. Benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) was detected only in the sludge during spring and summer and in the effluent of TXH and WXY. PMF source analysis indicated industrial wastewater discharge as the primary source of pollutants. Ecological risk assessment revealed a high RQ for estriol (E3) in TXH effluent during autumn, and DEHP presented a potential carcinogenic risk through drinking water.

Discussion: The findings highlight significant seasonal and spatial variations in EDC concentrations and removal rates across the WWTPs. The persistent presence of DEHP and the high-risk levels of E3 in specific seasons underscore the need for improved treatment processes and stricter industrial discharge regulations to mitigate EDC-related risks. Further research is recommended to explore advanced detection and degradation techniques for EDCs in WWTPs.
A novel SSR4 variant associated with congenital disorder of glycosylation: a case report and related analysis
Authors: Sun Wenqiang , Jin Xinyun , Zhu Xueping
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) refer to monogenetic diseases characterized by defective glycosylation of proteins or lipids causing multi-organ disorders. Here, we investigate the clinical features and genetic variants of SSR4-CDG and conduct a preliminary investigation of its pathogenesis.

Methods

We retrospectively report the clinical data of a male infant with early life respiratory distress, congenital diaphragmatic eventration, cosmetic deformities, and moderate growth retardation. Peripheral blood was collected from the case and parents, genomic DNA was extracted and whole-exome sequencing was performed. The mRNA expression of SSR4 gene was quantified by Real-time Quantitative PCR. RNA sequencing analysis was subsequently performed on the case and a healthy child.

Results

Whole-exome sequencing of the case and his parents’ genomic DNA identified a hemizygous c.80_96del in SSR4, combined with the case’s clinical features, the diagnosis of CDG was finally considered. In this case, the expression of SSR4 was downregulated. The case were present with 1,078 genes downregulated and 536 genes upregulated. SSR4 gene expression was significantly downregulated in the case. Meanwhile, gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed that SSR4-CDG may affect hemostasis, coagulation, catabolism, erythrocyte development and homeostatic regulation, and muscle contraction and regulation, etc. Improvement of growth retardation in case after high calorie formula feeding and rehabilitation training.

Conclusion

Our study expanded the SSR4-CDG variant spectrum and clinical phenotype and analyzed pathways potentially affected by SSR4-CDG, which may provide further insights into the function of SSR4 and help clinicians better understand this disorder.
Long-term clinical course of adult-onset refractory epilepsy in cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome with a pathogenic MAP2K1 variant: a case report
Authors: Tsuburaya-Suzuki Rie , Ohori Sachiko , Hamanaka Kohei , Fujita Atsushi , Matsumoto Naomichi , Kinoshita Masako
Published: July 2024

Cardiofaciocutaneous syndrome (CFC) is a rare genetic disorder that presents with cardiac, craniofacial, and cutaneous symptoms, and is often accompanied by neurological abnormalities, including neurodevelopmental disorders and epilepsy. Regarding epilepsy in CFC, the onset of seizures commonly occurs in childhood. Since research data has mainly been collected from young patients with relatively short observation period, there is insufficient information regarding adult-onset epilepsy in CFC. Here, we report the long-term clinical course of epilepsy and other complications in a 45-year-old female with genetically confirmed CFC carrying a pathogenic de novo heterozygous variant of MAP2K1, c.389 A>G (p.Tyr130Cys). The patient presented psychomotor delay from infancy and had severe intellectual disability with autistic features. At the age of 30, she first developed combined generalized and focal epilepsy that was resistant to anti-seizure medication. Her refractory epilepsy was fairly controlled with a combination of three anti-seizure medications, especially lacosamide, which effectively suppressed both generalized and focal seizures. The present case provides detailed information regarding the clinical course and treatment of adult-onset epilepsy, which may be useful for optimal treatment and prognostic prediction of CFC.
Anti-IL23/12 agents and JAK inhibitors for inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tian Zhezhe , Zhao Qiaorui , Teng Xiu
Published: July 2024

IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract with increasing incidence worldwide. Multiple factors, such as genetic background, environmental and luminal factors, and mucosal immune dysregulation, have been implicated in the cause of IBD, although the cause of the disease remains unknown. IL-12 and IL-23 and their downstream signaling pathways participate in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease. Early and aggressive treatment with biologic therapies or novel small molecules is needed to decrease complications and the need for hospitalization and surgery. The landscape of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment has tremendously improved with the development of biologics and small molecule drugs. Several novel biologics and small molecule drugs targeting IL-12 and IL-23 and their downstream targets have shown positive efficacy and safety data in clinical trials, and several drugs have been approved for the treatment of IBD. In the future, numerous potential emerging therapeutic options for IBD treatment are believed to come to the fore, achieving disease cure.
Frequent detection of IFN-gamma -producing memory effector and effector T cells in patients with progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy
Authors: de Goër de Herve Marie-Ghislaine , Dekeyser Manon , Hendel-Chavez Houria , Maillart Elisabeth , Labeyrie Céline , Adams David , Moreau Thibault , Lubetzki Catherine , Papeix Caroline , Stankoff Bruno , Gasnault Jacques , Taoufik Yassine
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy (PML) is a rare and deadly demyelinating disease caused by JC virus (JCV) replication in the central nervous system. PML occurs exclusively in patients with severe underlying immune deficiencies, including AIDS and hematological malignancies. PML has also emerged as a significant threat to patients on potent new immunosuppressive biologics, including natalizumab in multiple sclerosis.

Methods

Here, we developed an IFN-γ release assay (IGRA) that mainly detects JCV-specific effector memory T cells and effectors T cells in the blood.

Results

This assay was frequently positive in patients with active PML (with a positive JCV PCR in CSF) of various underlying immunosuppression causes (84% sensitivity). Only 3% of healthy donors had a positive response (97% specificity). The frequency of positivity also increased in multiple sclerosis patients according to the time on natalizumab (up to 36% in patients treated for more than 48 months, who are considered at a higher risk of PML).

Discussion

The results show this assay’s frequent or increased positivity in patients with PML or an increased risk of PML, respectively. The assay may help to stratify the risk of PML.
Peritonitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes and Burkholderia cepacia in a patient on peritoneal dialysis: a case report
Authors: Tsai Yu-Chi , Tsai Ming-Kai , Kung Wen-Ching , Wang Chien-Yao
Published: July 2024

Peritoneal dialysis (PD)-associated peritonitis is a major cause of peritoneal dysfunction and failure. The main issue regarding the treatment is whether to remove the catheter surgically or to treat with antibiotics alone. Notably, PD-associated peritonitis is commonly caused by gram-positive cocci, but rarely by Listeria monocytogenes and Burkholderia cepacia. Here, we report a patient diagnosed with PD-associated peritonitis caused by L. monocytogenes and B. cepacia who presented with a fever, abdominal pain, and turbid dialysate and had been receiving PD for over 20 years. After 2 weeks of antibiotic treatment, the catheter in the patient was surgically removed. Culture and pathology results revealed pathogen growth, foreign body granuloma with chronic inflammation, and inflammatory cells with fibroblast infiltration. The patient was switched to hemodialysis. She eventually recovered and was discharged. The patient presented fair health at the 3-month follow-up. In conclusion, sequential dialysate white blood cell count may help clinicians decide the course of treatment and guide the timing of surgical intervention.
Case report: From oral infection to life-threatening pneumonia: clinical considerations in Nocardia infection from a case
Authors: Chen Kang , Wang Ying , Dong Jing , Wu Ping-Shang , Yang Jun , Ai Guo-Ping
Published: July 2024

Nocardia is an anthropozoonotic bacteria that occurs widely in the natural environment. However, because it is a gram-positive aerobic opportunistic pathogen, it rarely occurs in patients with no prior history of immune function disease. Since the symptoms are nonspecific the diagnosis of Nocardia pneumonia is challenging. Previous studies have not reported that this anthropozoonotic bacteria colonizing the human body could cause severe pneumonia by gingival pain and pharyngeal discomfort. This case report describes a previously healthy 60-year-old female farmer who presented to the doctor with gingival pain and pharyngeal discomfort. She was treated with a dental cleaning and oral metronidazole. The patient rapidly progressed to breathing difficulties. Lung shadow was found by computerized tomography examination. The radiologist diagnosed pulmonary tuberculosis as image-based. Through laboratory examination and culture of pathogenic microorganisms in the sputum and blood of the patient, no obvious positive findings were found. The disease progressed rapidly to tracheal intubation ventilator assisted breathing. Subsequently, the patient underwent alveolar lavatory examination under endotracheal intubation fiberbronchoscopy, and the culture of alveolar lavage fluid indicated Nocardia. According to this result, the patient’s disease was quickly controlled after selecting the targeted drug compound sulfamethoxazole and intravenous meropenem for treatment. In view of the reason for the high misdiagnosis rate due to the low positive rate of Nocardia culture in most cases, the clinical thinking of diagnosis and treatment from oral infection symptoms to fatal pneumonia reported in this case has certain clinical popularization and enlighten significance, not only improved the diagnosis and treatment of rare diseases, but also be reduced medical disputes.