bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
- Semiotics Analysis Method in Architectural Research
Authors: Handoko Jarwa Prasetya Sih
Published: November 2024

Semiotics is the study of signs in the social life of society. While architectural semiotics is a method of analysis in architectural research that views an architectural work as a collection of signs that become a marker to convey a sign of meaning or message to its users. The objective of this study is to establish the scope of the use of semiotic analysis methods in architectural studies in terms of the variety of research topics and findings that can be obtained from these studies. This study is a descriptive exploratory study with a literature study related to the use of semiotic analysis methods in research in the field of architecture. From the results of the study note that the semiotic analysis method can be used to examine the meaning or message both visual and non-visual that exists in architectural works. There are markers and markers in the form of architecture that describe the culture of the local community. The search for meaning or message contained in an architectural work can be carried out with several semiotic analysis strategies.
BELEDİYELERİN ‘SOSYAL’ İŞLEVLERİNDE DÖNÜŞÜM: KALKINMA PARADİGMASI ODAĞINDA BİR DEĞERLENDİRME
Authors: Demirli Aynur
Published: November 2024

Günümüzde belediyeler sosyal politika alanında yükselen bir aktör olarak birbirinden farklı alanlarda faaliyet göstermektedirler. Türkiye’de belediyelerin geleneksel olarak üstlendikleri yerinden yönetim ve altyapı hizmetleri ile pek benzerlik taşımayan bu uygulamaların, son 30 sene içinde giderek yaygınlık kazandığı görülmektedir. Bu olgu, özellikle 5216 sayılı Büyükşehir Belediyesi Kanunu ile 5393 sayılı Belediye Kanunu çerçevesinde hukuki bir temele de kavuşarak daha da güçlenmiştir. ‘Sosyal’ belediyecilik kavramı altında ele alınan bu yaklaşım, genel makro politika değişimi çerçevesinde 1990’lar itibariyle kalkınma paradigmasında yaşanan değişimle yakından ilişkilidir. Bu çerçevede makalenin amacı, Dünya Bankası’nın şekillendirdiği kapsamlı kalkınma paradigmasının belediye hizmetlerinin genişleyen kapsamını anlamlandırmada temel alınması gerekliliğini ortaya koymaktır.
El Punto Donde Estamos: Caminos y Expectativas en Torno a la Historia de los Animales en América Latina y el Caribe
Authors: Duarte Regina Horta , Vital André Vasques , De Carvalho Cabral Diogo
Published: November 2024

Presentación
“Eu Sou como a Garça Triste”: Romantismo, Escravidão e Natureza na Poetica de Castro Alves
Authors: Pereira Alan Ricardo Schimidt
Published: November 2024

Antônio Frederico de Castro Alves (1847-1871) ficou conhecido como “o poeta dos escravos” por causa de seus poemas abolicionistas. O poeta fazia parte do romantismo brasileiro, não se furtando às representações da natureza. O romantismo brasileiro, por seu turno, surge ligado ao Estado do recém-nascido império, e esteve intimamente relacionado à formação de uma nacionalidade que tentava opor a nova nação à antiga metrópole. Nesse sentido, Castro Alves criou representações que eram hiperbólicas e que dividiram opiniões - como as de seus amigos, e abolicionistas, Rui Barbosa e Joaquim Nabuco -, apesar de seus poemas serem até hoje apreciados por sua beleza nas descrições, muitas vezes grandiloquentes. O poeta abolicionista relacionou suas representações da natureza aos escravizados, implementando uma retórica de positivação com relação a esses indivíduos, reumanizando-os ao reconhecê-los como parte da natureza, e dessa forma, subvertendo a coisificação que lhes era imposta pelos senhores e por todo o sistema escravista.
“ – Já passamos o Éden”: Machado de Assis e a Abertura de Caminhos para uma Agência Animal Compartilhada no Brasil
Authors: Aprobato Filho Nelson
Published: November 2024

O escritor brasileiro Machado de Assis (1839-1908) dedicou parte de sua complexa obra para discutir as relações entre o ser humano e os outros animais. Muitas dessas discussões estão relacionadas, de forma profundamente crítica, aos principais movimentos socioculturais, político-econômicos, científico-tecnológicos e ecológico-ambientais do período. Por meio da escrita literária, elaborou importantes reflexões sobre os limites e contingências da condição humana e animal, abrindo caminhos para explorar o complexo campo da História dos Animais no Brasil. Entre centenas de registros machadianos sobre animais (em romances, contos, peças teatrais, poemas e crônicas de jornal), neste artigo procura-se destacar os escritos nos quais o autor abordou a agência animal, as subjetividades e as idiossincrasias desses seres. Busca-se também discutir de que forma esses textos apontam e estão inseridos nas discussões sobre proteção animal no Brasil nas últimas décadas do século XIX. Os animais em Machado de Assis são mais do que metáforas. Em diversas ocasiões, eles são protagonistas e agentes da história e de suas próprias histórias, que são compartilhadas com a história do escritor e com as histórias de seus leitores.
Renal Protective Effects of Dialium guineense Fruit Pulp on Serum Creatinine and Urea Levels in Ethanol-Induced Peptic Ulcers in Albino Rats
Authors: Elekwa Elizabeth Amah , Aloh Godwin Sunday , Agu Kizito Akachukwu , Okoro-Akapndu Elizabeth , Ogwo Bertha
Published: November 2024

Ethanol-induced peptic impacts various systems, such as renal function, with serum creatinine and urea as indicators of kidney dysfunction. Despite its known antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, Dialium guineense has not been explored for its potential to protect renal function against ulcerated conditions.  This study evaluated its impact on renal function in albino rats with ethanol-induced peptic ulcers. Albino rats were divided into six groups (n=5): normal control, ulcer control, a reference group treated with omeprazole (20 mg/kg), and groups treated with Dialium guineense extract at 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg, and 1000 mg/kg. Additionally, five Dialium guineense fractions were administered at 250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg Ulcer was induced using ethanol (5 ml/kg), followed by a 21-day treatment with Dialium guineense extract and omeprazole as the standard drug. Serum creatinine and urea levels were assayed biochemically. Ethanol significantly raised the serum creatinine and urea levels in the ulcer control group compared to the normal control (p < 0.05).  Dialium guineense treatment led to a dose-dependent reduction, most notably at 1000 mg/kg (p < 0.05). The reduction in renal markers with Dialium guineense was comparable to omeprazole. Findings suggest that Dialium guineense fruit pulp may mitigate ethanol-induced renal dysfunction, indicating its potential renoprotective properties and highlighting a foundation for further research into its therapeutic uses for renal dysfunction associated with gastrointestinal disorders.
Kinetic and Chemical Analysis of Pyrolysis in Bambusa vulgaris Leaves and Derived Fibers
Authors: Pokuri Prabhu , Ponnam Vijetha , Ponnam Venkata Kishore Babu , Neelamegam David Solomon Godwin Babu , Tondepu Subbaiah
Published: November 2024

Bamboo, a perennial and monocarpic plant, holds immense potential beyond its commonly recognized applications. In this study, fiber was extracted from bamboo leaves. Pyrolytic kinetic studies were done on leaves and the extracted fibers, utilizing thermogravimetry and derivative thermogravimetry (TG/DTG) data obtained at heating rates 10, 20, and 30 K/min within the temperature range of 298–1093 K. Model-free methods such as Ozawa-Flynn-Wall (OFW), Kissinger-Akahira-Sunose (KAS), and Friedman were employed to calculate the activation energy (Ea) and the pre-exponential factor (A). For leaves, the calculated Ea values were found to be 283 kJ/mol (KAS), 279 kJ/mol (OFW), and 318 kJ/mol (Friedman), while the A values were determined as 7.2 × 1043 s−1 (KAS), 1.07 × 1043 s−1 (OFW), and 5.7 × 1045 s−1 (Friedman). In the case of fiber, the Ea values were found to be 162 kJ/mol (KAS), 164 kJ/mol (OFW), and 165 kJ/mol (Friedman), with corresponding A of 4.6 × 1015 s−1 (KAS), 5.6 × 1013 s−1 (OFW), and 348 × 1013 s−1 (Friedman). Additionally, scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) analyses were conducted on both leaves and fiber.
Investigating the Site Response Variability of Deep Sedimentary Column Induced by Varying Soil Friction Angles
Authors: Prajapati Amit , Zhao Bin
Published: November 2024

Ensuring the danger level for sustainable development requires a proper ground response analysis with reliable geological properties of deep sediment deposits up to bedrock. The seismic assessment procedure commonly dealth with the upper 30 meters of soil, overlooking the influence of deeper sediment layers. This study performs the seismic response of an entire soil column extending to bedrock, accounting for the soil frictional angle variability. A one-dimensional nonlinear ground response analysis was conducted using 28 earthquake records, with soil friction angles ranging from 10 to 60 degrees. The results highlight the nonlinear behavior of soils, particularly the modification of shear modulus and damping ratio with depth, influenced by changes in frictional angle and effective vertical stress. It indicates that the 10° frictional angles produce a minimum spectral acceleration demand, primarily due to the high energy dissipation in the over-softened upper layer, hence, reduction in peak ground acceleration (PGA). While a 30° friction angle produces high spectral acceleration at short period in shallow depth. The seismic response resulted in a 0.54 times decrease in peak acceleration in the ground relative to bedrock, highlighting the significance of deep soil investigation. This study shows that different friction angles present a greater understanding of seismic site response, leading to better hazard assessment insights.
Empoderamento de Adolescentes em Contexto de Vulnerabilidades a partir das Intervenções Educativas em Saúde
Authors: Barros Mariana Boulitreau Siqueira Campos , Monteiro Estela Maria Leite Meirelles , Farias Ariany Cristine do Nascimento , Brandão Neto Waldemar , Araújo Ednaldo Cavalcante de , Goes Paulo Sávio Angeiras de , Ramalho Marclineide Nóbrega de Andrade , Bushatsky Magaly
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: identificar quais os tipos e meios de aferição do empoderamento de adolescentes em contexto de vulnerabilidades que participaram de intervenções educativas em saúde. Métodos: Revisão integrativa realizada nas fontes informacionais: Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, Pubmed, Science Direct, ADOLEC e Scopus, a qual observou que a maioria dos estudos analisados demonstrou o empoderamento em um enfoque psicológico/individual. Resultados: Para que seja possível visibilizar a potencialidade dos adolescentes, trabalhar a subjetividade que alimenta o ideal de luta em um contexto de desigualdades sociais, o empoderamento coletivo e de classe social precisam ser mais explorados nas intervenções educativas em saúde. Considerações finais: Observa-se uma carência de instrumentos específicos para aferir este construto, diante de sua complexidade, e legitimidade como requisito para a construção de conhecimentos comprometidos com as potencialidades de transformação da realidade, promoção da saúde individual, e coletiva.                                
Descritores: Empoderamento para a Saúde; Educação em Saúde; Adolescente; Vulnerabilidade Social.
ОБҐРУНТУВАННЯ МОЖЛИВОСТІ ВИКОРИСТАННЯ ТРУБОПРОВОДІВ ІЗ ПОЛІМЕРІВ У СИСТЕМІ ЗОВНІШНЬОГО ПРОТИПОЖЕЖНОГО ВОДОПОСТАЧАННЯ ПРОММАЙДАНЧИКА АТОМНОЇ ЕЛЕКТРОСТАНЦІЇ
Authors: ФЕЩУК Юрій , БАЛЛО Ярослав , СІЗІКОВ Олександр , ЦИГАНКОВ Андрій
Published: November 2024

Проведено аналіз протипожежного стану території проммайданчика АЕС. Визначено найбільш несприятливі сценарії виникнення та розвитку пожежі, які були змодельовані під час відтворення умов температурного впливу пожежі на території проммайданчика АЕС на експлуатаційну придатність зовнішнього протипожежного водопроводу, виконаного зі штучних полімерних труб, що прокладені підземним способом. Здійснено аналіз вимог нормативних документів, джерел науково-технічної інформації щодо особливостей улаштування зовнішнього протипожежного водопроводу на території АЕС з урахуванням функціонального призначення об’єкта та його технологічної специфіки функціонування. Здійснено порівняння технічних характеристик стальних трубопроводів з трубопроводами зі штучних полімерів. Проведено комп’ютерне моделювання, за результатами якого обґрунтувано можливості застосування труб, виконаних зі штучних полімерів під час реконструкції зовнішнього протипожежного водопроводу проммайданчика атомної електростанції (далі – АЕС), що прокладений підземним способом. Визначено додаткові умови, яких слід дотримуватися під час його прокладання. Встановлено, що під час найбільш несприятливих умов виникнення та поширення пожежі критичного значення температури на поверхні трубопроводу не досягнуто, а ймовірність його пошкодження чи деформування внаслідок впливу вогню є незначною.
A beautiful mind: The role of gut microbes and their therapeutic potential in autism spectrum disorder
Authors:   , Peralta Marzal Lucia Natalia
Published: November 2024

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that affects about 1 in 100 children worldwide. It involves a wide range of challenges, from social difficulties to repetitive behaviours, often accompanied by other conditions like epilepsy, sleep problems, and digestive issues. Despite ongoing research, we still don’t fully understand what causes these disorders or how to effectively diagnose and treat ASD.

Recent studies suggest that the gut microbiota, the community of microbes living in our intestine, may play a significant role in neurodevelopmental disorders like ASD. The gut and brain can communicate in a bidirectional manner through a complex network called the gut-brain axis, which involves immune, metabolic, and neuronal pathways. Alterations in the composition of the gut microbes, known as dysbiosis, could contribute to ASD development and severity by disrupting these connections.

This thesis investigates the gut microbiome’s role in ASD from multiple angles. We identified specific gut bacterial markers linked to the condition in three independent study populations using machine learning. We developed different humanized mouse models that are promising tools to deepen on the investigation of the gut-brain axis in ASD. Finally, we also explored dietary interventions, such as probiotic and synbiotic diets, to promote ‘healthy’ changes in the gut bacterial composition that might translate into beneficial effects in processes along the gut-brain axis like behaviour.

By deepening our understanding of how gut microbes interact with the brain, this research offers new hope for more effective and personalized treatments for ASD. It highlights the potential of targeting the gut microbiome to improve the quality of life for individuals living with this condition.
Catalysts in Focus
Authors:   , Jacobs Thimo Sander
Published: November 2024

The catalytic conversion of CO2 into value-added chemical building blocks is a crucial process towards a more sustainable society. The performance of the catalysts for this conversion process can be tracked using analytical methods, including spectroscopy and microscopy, which can aid towards a better understanding and optimization of these catalyst materials. The length scales of importance for a catalytic reaction vary over multiple orders of magnitude, where each length scale provides additional physicochemical insights into the functioning of the catalyst. Consequently, spectroscopy and microscopy methods need to be applied to this variety of length scales. In this PhD Thesis, we show the development and application of two spectroscopic methods to probe the local temperature and reaction intermediates, namely luminescence thermometry and Raman spectroscopy, at a spatial resolution of 1 µm2 and temporal resolution of seconds. The results described in the different chapters provide a methodological view on the application of these analytical methods and showcase spatially resolved information on the catalytic performance. We optimized the lanthanide-based luminescent thermometer to have optimal signal strength, resulting in low temperature uncertainties. The thermometer particles were used to study the temperature change in two processes: 1) the thermocatalytic CO2 hydrogenation reaction and 2) the electrocatalytic hydrogen and oxygen evolution reactions. We found significant temperature increase upon the introduction of the reactant gasses CO2 and H2 during process 1 due to exothermic reactions at the catalyst surface, as well as temperature variations as a function of current density and electrolyte composition in process 2. Furthermore, the reaction intermediates of the CO2 hydrogenation reaction were studied with plasmonic substrates, for which we provided more robust and homogeneous alternatives based on a combination of atomic layer deposition and lithography. Further progress can be made in the combination of the two analytical methods, as well as more efficient designs of operando reactor cells. This PhD Thesis can be used as a guideline for spatiotemporal spectroscopic studies during catalytic reactions to map out local effects such as temperature and reaction intermediates.
Surgical rehabilitation of hearing in children with chronic suppurative otitis media.
Authors: Vlasova Galina V. , Pavlov Pavel  V. , Gaiduenko Alina  A.
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND: Tympanoplasty is mainly indicated for the surgical debridement of the middle ear and the creation of a closed tympanic cavity and a mobile and functional sound transmission system.
AIM: This study aimed to analyze the state of hearing according to pure tone threshold audiometry before and after hearing-improving operations in children.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study analyzed the hearing state according to pure tone threshold audiometry data before and after tympanoplasty in 65 children aged 5–17 years. Hearing status was assessed before surgery and on 18–21 days and 6–12 months after surgery. The patients underwent tympanoplasty types I, II, and III according to H. Wullstein. To close the tympanic membrane defect, restore the lateral wall of the attic, and replenish the elements of the chain of auditory ossicles, the following materials were used: perichondrium of the tragus and auricle, cartilage of the tragus and auricle, perichondrial–cartilaginous flaps, and periosteum.
RESULTS: In this study, patients’ satisfaction rates of the anatomical and functional results of tympanoplasty were 86% and 78%, respectively.
CONCLUSIONS: Cartilaginous ossiculoplasty was performed on the head of stapes and oval window, and a perichondrial–cartilaginous flap was used to form the tympanic membrane. This method was effective in creating a sound-conducting system of the middle ear in children.
Olfactory training: current status and request for the future
Authors: Nagovskaya Victoria Valeria V. , Svistushkin Mikhail V. , Tonkovtseva Valentina V. , Zinchenko Igor A. , Svistushkin Valery M.
Published: November 2024

Olfactory training, proposed as a rehabilitation direction for nondrug recovery and treatment of olfaction, can be useful for various patients, including those with post-infection loss of sense of smell. Currently, significant variability exists in flavors used and duration and schemes of olfactory training. This analytical review is devoted to the methods of olfactory training to classify and systematize the techniques. The first successfully conducted and described study of olfactory training for the treatment of patients with loss of sense of smell of various etiologies was conducted for 12 weeks twice a day, where patients inhaled four fragrant substances isolated from essential oils (aromas: pink, eucalyptus, lemon, and clove). During rehabilitation, aromatic substances of various compositions were used — monocomponents, synthetic fragrances, essential oils, and household aromatic substances. The duration of olfactory training varied from 4 to 56–84 weeks. The training was most effective in the long-term exposure groups from 20 to 56 weeks. By selecting certain components and observing the training duration, this technique can improve the quality of the threshold sensitivity of aromas and their identification, which has a positive effect on health and many areas of human life and can be used in the rehabilitation of the sense of smell.
Engineered myeloid precursors differentiate into osteoclasts and resorb heterotopic ossification in mice
Authors: Rementer Cameron , Yavirach Apichai , Buranaphatthana Worakanya , Walczak Philip A. , Speer Mei , Pierce Kat , Dharmarajan Subramanian , Leber Elizabeth , Sangiorzan Bruce , Bain Steven , Scatena Marta , Blümke Alexander , Giachelli Cecilia M.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Heterotopic ossification (HO) occurs following orthopedic trauma, spinal cord injuries, brain trauma and limb amputations. Once symptomatic, HO causes pain, limited mobility and decreased quality of life. Current treatments are limited and have significant complications with high recurrence rates, underscoring the need for improved therapeutic interventions. Osteoclasts (OCs) are physiological bone resorptive cells that secrete enzymes and protons to degrade bone.

Methods

In this study, we describe the use of genetically engineered OCs as a novel cell therapy approach to treat HO. Inducible, engineered myeloid precursors (iRANK cells) treated with a chemical inducer of dimerization (CID) differentiated into TRAP+ multinucleated OCs and resorbed mineralized tissues in vitro.

Results

In vivo, BMP-2-induced murine HO lesions were significantly regressed following treatment using iRANK cells with concomitant systemic administration of CID. Moreover, many OCs were TRAP+, MMP9+, and GFP+, indicating that they differentiated from delivered iRANK cells.

Discussion

In summary, these data con rm the ability of engineered myeloid precursors to differentiate into OCs and resorb HO in vivo paving the way for OC delivery as a promising approach for HO treatment.
Analysis of factors influencing the efficacy of NAC and prognosis between HER2-zero and HER2-low HR negative breast cancer
Authors: Liu Jing-Jing , Zhang Yi , Zhang Shi-Chao , Liu Xu , Wang Shu-Nan , Liu Xin-Yu , Zhang Jin
Published: November 2024

Objective: The aim of this paper was to assess the differences in clinicopathological characteristics, efficacy and prognosis of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) in human epidermal growth factor receptor2(HER2)-zero and HER2-low hormone receptor (HR)-negative breast cancer (BC) patients, and the impact of HER2-evolution on prognosis before and after NAC.

Methods: 319 triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients who completed NAC and surgery from August 2014 to August 2018 at Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital were included. Clinicopathological features, efficacy of NAC and assessment of prognosis were retrospectively analysed. The evolution of HER2-zero to HER2-low after NAC is defined as HER2-gain, the evolution of HER2-low to HER2-zero after NAC is defined as HER2-loss, and HER2 unchanged after NAC is defined as HER2-stable.

Results: In HR-negative BC, the pathological complete response (pCR) rate was significantly higher in HER2-zero compared with HER2-low patients, and the difference was statistically significant (38.9% vs 23.2%, p = 0.004), but there was no significant difference in the prognosis between the two groups. The overall rate of HER2-evolution after NAC was 19.7%, and there was a significant correlation between HER2-loss and histological grading, whereas HER2-gain was significantly associated with Ki-67 expression. In terms of prognosis, HER2-gain was better compared to the other two groups.

Conclusion: In this study, we found that HER2-low HR-negative BC showed different clinicopathological features and response to NAC compared with HER2-zero, as well as HER2-evolution before and after NAC had a significant impact on prognosis.
Selection of rhythm intervention strategies in atrial fibrillation patients with cancer and efficacy and safety of catheter ablation
Authors: Wang Xin , Han Xu , Yang Xiaolei , Hidru Tesfaldet Habtemariam , Wang Chengfang , Xia Yunlong , Che Ying
Published: November 2024

Background

The risk of comorbidity of cancer is increased in atrial fibrillation (AF) patients, which is a massive challenge for clinical management in cardiovascular settings. This study aimed to analyze whether cancer affects the decision of radiofrequency ablation and to explore the efficacy and safety of radiofrequency ablation in AF patients with cancer.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients who were first diagnosed AF and identified who were with cancer. The propensity score matching method was utilized to balance the differences between the cancer and non-cancer groups. Logistic regression analysis was used to study the related factors affecting the ablation of AF. Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the effect of cancer on the recurrence of AF after radiofrequency ablation.

Results

Among 9,159 patients who were first diagnosed AF, the prevalence of cancer was 4.48%. Cancer did not affect the decision of rhythm intervention in AF patients (P = 0.46). There was no significant difference in the incidence of perioperative complications, bleeding events, and embolization events between cancer and non-cancer groups (P = 1.000). The median follow-up time was 342 (293,866) days, and 45 patients had AF recurrence. Multivariable Cox regression showed no statistically significant relationship between concomitant cancer and AF recurrence after radiofrequency ablation (hazard ratio = 0.82, 95% confidence interval 0.36–1.83, P = 0.62).

Conclusions

The combination of cancer did not affect the decision of patients to perform ablation therapy. Radiofrequency catheter ablation could be used as a strategy to maintain long-term sinus rhythm in patients with concomitant cancer without affecting AF recurrence.
Transactional e-health literacy and its association with e-health services use in Polish adults: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Smoła Paulina , Zwierczyk Urszula , Duplaga Mariusz
Published: November 2024

Introduction

The transactional model of e-health literacy addresses not only the skills needed for handling online health-related information but also the capacity to communicate regarding health issues on the Internet. It also emphasizes a critical component of e-health literacy: enabling appraisal and selection of information adequate to individual needs. Our study aimed to culturally adapt the instrument assessingTransactional e-Health Literacy (TeHL) and examine the association between TeHL and the use of e-health services by Polish adult Internet users.

Methods

The analysis was conducted on data from an online survey among 1,661 respondents. After cultural adaptation and piloting of the Polish version of the instrument measuring TeHL, exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were performed on two samples obtained by random splitting of the original data set. The roles of TeHL categories in the use of several types of e-health services were assessed with multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

We have found that the four-factor model of the Polish version of the TeHL instrument, consisting of 17 items, obtained after excluding item 13, shows the best fit to the measurement data (NFI = 0.950, RFI 0.938, TLI = 0.951, CFI = 0.960, GFI = 0.932, RMSEA = 0.066). Regression modeling revealed that Functional e-health literacy is a significant positive predictor of the use of remote physician advice, the Internet Patient Account Portal, portals providing general health-related information, and websites allowing for checking laboratory test results. Communicative eHL was significantly negatively related to the use of general health-related information portals and positively related to the use of portals offering paid medical advice. Critical e-health literacy was a significant negative predictor of the use of remote physician advice and the laboratory test results websites but a positive predictor of using portals offering paid medical advice and websites offering easy access to e-prescriptions. Finally, Translational e-health literacy was significantly positively associated with the use of the Internet Patient Account Portal, general health-related information portals, and laboratory test results websites.

Discussion

Polish version of the instrument assessing TeHL is a tool of confirmed validity that can be used for e-health research in Poland. The relationships between four types of TeHL and the use of concrete e-health solutions show a complex pattern requiring further evaluation.
Oral health-related quality of life in Northland Māori children and adolescents with Polynesian amelogenesis imperfecta
Authors: Martin Michelle , Gowda Sunitha , Foster Page Lyndie , Thomson W. Murray
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Amelogenesis Imperfecta (AI) is a hereditary developmental disorder of tooth enamel with few known variants with differing characteristics, depending on where in the amelogenesis process an error has occurred. Polynesian AI (or Poly AI) is prevalent among people of Polynesian descent and is prevalent among New Zealand Māori. While the impact of AI on the quality of life has been reported in some studies, however, the role of Poly AI on oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) is not known. This study explores OHRQoL among New Zealand Māori with and without AI.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was undertaken, with ethical approval obtained from the New Zealand Health and Disability Ethics Committee. 30 Māori children and adolescents with Poly AI and 60 Māori children and adolescents with no Poly AI as the comparison group matched by age and sex, were randomly selected and recruited participated in the study. OHRQoL was measured using the 19-item COHIP-SF.

Results

Statistically significant differences were observed in the OHRQoL between those with Poly AI and the comparison group. Linear regression analyses controlling for age and deprivation showed significantly poorer OHRQoL among those with Poly AI than in those with no Poly AI.

Discussion

The study findings highlight poorer OHRQoL among Māori children with Poly AI, emphasizing the need for early detection and management of the condition and the importance of providing appropriate training in diagnosing Poly AI and managing hypersensitivity. Further research among Polynesian populations is needed to understand the impact OHRQoL among those with Poly AI.
Physical modelling of salt structural deformation in the Tajik Basin: insights into the formation of complex fold-and-thrust structures
Authors: Wei Yin , Zhifeng Ji , Yiqiong Zhang , Jinyou He , Xueke Wang , Mingjun Zhang , Ren Jiang , Yue Zheng , Ying Pan
Published: November 2024

The structure of the Tajik Basin is characterized by a series of NE-trending fold-thrust belts that share a common detachment layer composed of Upper Jurassic evaporite rocks. These fold-thrust structures, thrusting face to face, converge toward the Vakhsh Depression. Due to limitations of seismic and drilling data, the controlling factors of the formation of the fold-thrust belts in the Tajik Basin remain controversial. Taking the Tajik Basin as a geological prototype, structural physical simulation experiments were conducted to decipher the controlling factors of salt-related structure deformation. The experiment results indicate that the tectonic deformation of the strata above the Jurassic evaporite rocks in the Tajik Basin is mainly controlled by the detachment layer of the Upper Jurassic evaporite rocks. The early salt diapirs in the Upper Jurassic played a key role in the formation of the thrust belts. Additionally, tectonic stress near the mountain front was rapidly transmitted to the inner basin due to the load of the structural wedge. Based on the results of physical simulation experiments, we speculate that the tectonic deformation of the subsalt strata and the basement in the Tajik Basin is primarily controlled by a deep detachment layer. The deformation of the subsalt strata is relatively gentle, which is conducive to the formation of large-scale, broad and gentle anticlinal structures. The anticlinal structures of the subsalt strata can form effective traps due to the sealing effect of the Upper Jurassic evaporite layer, offering promising exploration potential.
A position allocation approach to the scheduling of battery-electric bus charging
Authors: Brown Alexander , Droge Greg , Gunther Jacob
Published: November 2024

Robust charging schedules for a growing market of battery-electric bus (BEB) fleets are critical to successful adoption. In this paper, we present a BEB charging scheduling framework that considers spatiotemporal schedule constraints, route schedules, fast and slow charging options, and battery dynamics, modeled as a mixed-integer linear program (MILP). The MILP is based on the berth allocation problem (BAP), a method that optimally assigns vessels for service, and is adapted in a modified form known as the position allocation problem (PAP), which assigns electric vehicles (EVs) for charging. Linear battery dynamics are included to model the charging of buses while at the station. To account for the BEB discharges over their respective routes, we assume that each BEB experiences an average kWh charge loss while in transit. The optimization coordinates BEB charging to ensure that each vehicle maintains a state-of-charge (SOC) above a specified level. The model also minimizes the total number of chargers utilized and prioritizes slow charging for battery health. The validity of the model is demonstrated using a set of routes sampled from the Utah Transit Authority (UTA) for 35 buses and 338 visits to the charging station. The model is also compared to a heuristic algorithm based on charge thresholds, referred to as the Qin-modified method. The results show that the MILP framework encourages battery health by assigning slow chargers to BEBs more readily than the Qin-modified method. The MILP utilized one fast charger and six slow chargers, whereas the Qin-modified method utilized four fast chargers and six slow chargers. Moreover, the MILP maintained a specified minimum SOC of 25% throughout the day and achieved the required minimum SOC of 70% at the end of the working day, whereas the Qin-modified method failed to maintain the SOC above 0% without any constraints applied. Furthermore, it is shown that the spatiotemporal constraints are met while considering the battery dynamics and minimizing both the charger count and consumption cost.
Global and regional genetic association analysis of ulcerative colitis and type 2 diabetes mellitus and causal validation analysis of two-sample two-way Mendelian randomization
Authors: Hu Yan-zhi , Chen Zhe , Zhou Ming-han , Zhao Zhen-yu , Wang Xiao-yan , Huang Jun , Li Xin-tian , Zeng Juan-ni
Published: November 2024

Background

Clinical co-occurrence of UC (Ulcerative Colitis) and T2DM (Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus) is observed. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential causal relationship between Ulcerative Colitis (UC) and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) using LDSC and LAVA analysis, followed by genetic verification through TSMR, providing insights for clinical prevention and treatment.

Methods

Genetic loci closely related to T2DM were extracted as instrumental variables from the GWAS database, with UC as the outcome variable, involving European populations. The UC data included 27,432 samples and 8,050,003 SNPs, while the T2DM data comprised 406,831 samples and 11,914,699 SNPs. LDSC and LAVA were used for quantifying genetic correlation at both global (genome-wide) and local (genomic regions) levels. MR analysis was conducted using IVW, MR-Egger regression, Weighted median, and Weighted mode, assessing the causal relationship between UC and diabetes with OR values and 95% CI. Heterogeneity and pleiotropy were tested using Egger-intercept, MR-PRESSO, and sensitivity analysis through the “leave-one-out” method and Cochran Q test. Subsequently, a reverse MR operation was conducted using UC as the exposure data and T2DM as the outcome data for validation.

Results

Univariable and bivariable LDSC calculated the genetic correlation and potential sample overlap between T2DM and UC, resulting in rg = -0.0518, se = 0.0562, P = 0.3569 with no significant genetic association found for paired traits. LAVA analysis identified 9 regions with local genetic correlation, with 6negative and 3 positive associations, indicating a negative correlation between T2DM and UC. MR analysis, with T2DM as the exposure and UC as the outcome, involved 34 SNPs as instrumental variables. The OR values and 95% CI from IVW, MR-Egger, Weighted median, and Weighted mode were 0.917 (0.848~0.992), 0.949 (0.800~1.125), 0.881 (0.779~0.996), 0.834(0.723~0.962) respectively, with IVW P-value < 0.05, suggesting a negative causal relationship between T2DM and UC. MR-Egger regression showed an intercept of -0.004 with a standard error of 0.009, P = 0.666, and MR-PRESSO Global Test P-value > 0.05, indicating no pleiotropy and no outliers detected. Heterogeneity tests showed no heterogeneity, and the “leave-one-out” sensitivity analysis results were stable. With UC as the exposure and T2DM as the outcome, 32 SNPs were detected, but no clear causal association was found.

Conclusion

There is a causal relationship between T2DM and UC, where T2DM reduces the risk of UC, while no significant causal relationship was observed from UC to T2DM.
ICAM1+ gingival fibroblasts modulate periodontal inflammation to mitigate bone loss
Authors: Kim William S. , Prasongyuenyong Kawintip , Ko Annette , Debnath Rahul , Chen Zhaoxu , Zhou Jonathan X. , Shaaf Emon , Ko Kang I.
Published: November 2024

Tissue-resident fibroblasts are heterogeneous and provide an endogenous source of cytokines that regulate immunologic events in many osteolytic diseases. Identifying distinct inflammatory fibroblast subsets and conducting mechanistic in vivo studies are critical for understanding disease pathogenesis and precision therapeutics, which is poorly explored in periodontitis. Here, we surveyed published single-cell datasets for fibroblast-specific analysis and show that Intercellular Adhesion Molecule-1 (ICAM1) expression selectively defines a fibroblast subset that exhibits an inflammatory transcriptional profile associated with nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway. ICAM1+ fibroblasts expand in both human periodontitis and murine ligature-induced periodontitis model, which have upregulated expression of CCL2 and CXCL1 compared to other fibroblast populations. Using a mouse model to selectively target gingival stromal cells, we further show that disruption of an inflammatory pathway by inhibiting transcriptional activity of NF-κB in these cells accelerated periodontal bone loss. Mechanistically, this was linked to a reduction of CCL2 expression by the ICAM1+ fibroblasts, leading to impaired macrophage recruitment and efferocytosis that was associated with persistent neutrophilic inflammation. These results may have a significant therapeutic implication as ICAM1+ gingival fibroblasts exert a protective response by regulating innate immune responses that are needed for the controlled inflammatory events in early stages of periodontitis.
G. vaginalis increases HSV-2 infection by decreasing vaginal barrier integrity and increasing inflammation in vivo
Authors: Rahman Nuzhat , Mian M. Firoz , Hayes Christina L. , Nazli Aisha , Kaushic Charu
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Clinically, a dysbiotic vaginal microbiota (VMB) colonized with anaerobic species such as Gardnerella vaginalis has been linked to increased susceptibility to viral sexually transmitted infections (STIs) such as Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 (HSV-2). The mechanism is poorly understood due to the lack of small animal models.

Methods

Mice were inoculated with 107 CFU of the eubiotic bacteria Lactobacillus crispatus, the dysbiotic bacteria G. vaginalis, or PBS as a negative control every 48 h for ten days. On day ten, mice were inoculated with 105 PFU WT HSV-2 333 and survival, pathology, and viral titers were assessed. To elucidate changes in the vaginal microenvironment following bacterial inoculations, vaginal tissue and washes were collected following ten days of inoculations. To assess barrier integrity, tissue was fixed and stained for the barrier protein Desmoglein-1 (DSG-1). To evaluate the immune microenvironment, tissue was processed for flow cytometry to examine tissue-resident T cells and cytokine production by T cells. Vaginal washes were used for multiplex cytokine/chemokine analysis.

Results

G. vaginalis inoculated mice infected with HSV-2 had significantly decreased survival rates, increased pathology, and higher viral titers than PBS and L. crispatus inoculated mice. The vaginal epithelium of G. vaginalis inoculated mice showed decreased DSG-1 staining compared to other groups, indicating compromised barrier function. Decreased total numbers of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells expressing activated mucosal immune markers CD44, CD69, and CD103 were observed in the vaginal tract of G. vaginalis inoculated mice. They also showed increased proportions of T cells expressing inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IFN-γ, while L. crispatus inoculated mice had increased proportions and absolute counts of T cells expressing the regulatory cytokine IL-10. In the multiplex assay, vaginal washes from G. vaginalis mice had increased inflammatory cytokines and chemokines compared to L. crispatus and PBS groups.

Discussion

These results suggest G. vaginalis inoculation may be increasing HSV-2 infection by disrupting the epithelial barrier, decreasing protective immune responses and increasing tissue inflammation in the vaginal tract.
Natural infection of hybrid sturgeon (Acipenser baerii♀×Acipenser schrenckii♂) with Nocardia seriolae and white sturgeon iridovirus: pathological and transcriptomic analyses
Authors: Ni Luyun , Li Pengcheng , Zou Qiaolin , Li Feiyang , Chen Yeyu , Chen Haoting , Lai Jiansheng , Du Jun , Liu Ya
Published: November 2024

Introduction

In August 2023, hybrid sturgeons (Acipenser baerii♀×Acipenser schrenckii♂) cultured in Sichuan, China, showed infectious disease symptoms, including ulcers, liver and spleen nodules, and high mortality rates.

Methods

Pathogenic bacteria were isolated from the liver of diseased sturgeons and analyzed for their phenotypic and molecular traits. Furthermore, iridovirus-specific TaqMan real-time PCR (RT-PCR) analyses were conducted. The histopathological characteristics were analyzed using paraffin sectioning and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Transcriptome sequencing was performed to elucidate the impact of pathogen exposure and immune response profiles in infected sturgeon.

Results

Pathogenic bacteria isolation and phylogenetic analyses of the 16S rRNA gene confirmed that the isolated bacteria clustered within the Nocardia seriolae group. The TaqMan RT-PCR assay was performed to detect the presence of white sturgeon iridovirus (WSIV), indicating a weakly positive signal. Histopathological examination revealed severe damage to various tissues, and a notable presence of bacteria was observed through acid-fast staining. Transmission electron microscopy analysis showed the presence of abundant bacteria and virus particles, indicating cellular invasion and subsequent damage. In summary, the disease in hybrid sturgeons was diagnosed as infection of N. seriolae and WSIV. To investigate the immune response of hybrid sturgeons to this infection, spleen transcriptomes were analyzed. Numerous immune-related genes and pathways, including the “Toll-like receptor”, “B-cell receptor”, and “T-cell receptor” signaling pathways, were altered in response to pathogenic threats. Significantly downregulated of key components of TCR and BCR signaling pathways, such as ZAP70, BTK, and CD79A, suggested a temporary inhibition of these pathways critical for cellular immunity post-infection. Gene set enrichment analysis revealed significant suppression of the apoptosis signaling pathway and activation of autophagy and mitophagy signaling pathways following infection. Specifically, in the death receptor-mediated apoptosis signaling pathway, downregulation of TNFα, TRAIL, CASP6, and CASP8 was observed, while several genes in the autophagy and mitophagy pathways showed upregulated expression post-infection.

Discussion

We report the initial occurrence of N. seriolae infection in cultured sturgeons. These findings could provide a theoretical basis for diagnosing and preventing this disease, as well as enhance the understanding of host-pathogen interactions in fish.
Advances in protein subunit vaccines against H1N1/09 influenza
Authors: Zhang Yu , Gao Jingyao , Xu Wenqi , Huo Xingyu , Wang Jingyan , Xu Yirui , Ding Wenting , Guo Zeliang , Liu Rongzeng
Published: November 2024

The A/H1N1pdm09 influenza virus, which caused the 2009 pandemic, has since become a recurring strain in seasonal influenza outbreaks. Given the ongoing threat of influenza, protein subunit vaccines have garnered significant attention for their safety and effectiveness. This review seeks to highlight the latest developments in protein subunit vaccines that specifically target the A/H1N1pdm09 virus. It will also examine the structure and replication cycle of influenza A viruses and compare different types of influenza vaccines. Additionally, the review will address key aspects of H1N1 protein subunit vaccine development, such as antigen selection, protein expression systems, and the use of adjuvants. The role of animal models in evaluating these vaccines will also be discussed. Despite challenges like antigenic variability and the complexities of vaccine production and distribution, protein subunit vaccines remain a promising option for future influenza prevention efforts.