bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial Reporting Transparency and the Cost of Equity: Evidence From Newly Listed Firms
Authors: Cheng Yang , Alam Pervaiz , Hou Liya
Published: February 2024

This paper explores the economic effects of financial reporting transparency of newly listed firms and outcomes associated with enhanced disclosure and financial reporting activities. We find a negative correlation between financial reporting transparency and information asymmetry in newly listed firms during their first five years of public trading. Further, we find a significant positive link between perceived business risk and implied cost of equity for these new public companies. Furthermore, we find a positive association between financial reporting transparency and the cost of equity. Our study helps to extend the research on the consequences of increased disclosures of newly listed firms.
Economic feasibility study of standalone community microgrid in 37 cities of the USA
Authors: Elmouatamid Abdellatif , Chowdhury Mizan Ahmed , Netto Marcos , Pong Philip W T
Published: February 2024

Community microgrids are applicable universally because they can decentralise grid-connected areas and electrify remote areas. Moreover, they can provide energy security by improving the reliability and resiliency of electric distribution while diminishing the infrastructure costs of preserving or constructing electric power generation, transmission, and distribution assets. Using renewable energy sources (RESs) maybe incentivised through the government and utilities, which can help make such projects economically viable. A model has been developed to calculate the costs and benefits of building a standalone community microgrid in various cities in the United States, powered by wind turbines and photovoltaic (PV) panels where the battery is the backup. Using the System Advisor Model, the sizing of the microgrid system was optimised. This microgrid community's capital, operation, and maintenance costs were calculated using various per unit costs obtained from previous research. Real-estate data were collected from websites to calculate the average price of land and houses. An automated tool was created to calculate the developer's profit and house price subsidy for building such communities. The result demonstrated that several states in the USA could be profitable for developers to build and homebuyers to be a member of this microgrid community. Additionally, this microgrid community has the objective of real/near power supply during disaster and emergency events (e.g., coastal/riverine flooding, tsunamis, earthquakes, wildfires, possible damage, and terrorist attacks). The benefit is not only the direct power generation cost but also the advantage of keeping some critical services operational during catastrophic events that cause electricity blackouts
Occupancy, movement, and behaviour of namew (lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens) in an intact river in Canada
Authors: Farrell CE , Simard J , Louttit S , Southee FM , Cruz-Font L , Struthers DP , Seguin JL , O’Connor CM
Published: February 2024

Most sturgeon populations are imperilled and living in fragmented rivers. Here, we studied namew (lake sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens), fish important to Ililiwak (Moose Cree Peoples), in the North French River: a free-flowing, intact river in Kit Aski Nahnuun (the Moose Cree Homeland) in northern Ontario, Canada. This study was co-created alongside members of Moose Cree First Nation and used acoustic telemetry to passively track 20 tagged namew over 6 yr (2016-2022). Namew occupied the entire monitored river reach: about 45 km. Namew used 2 overwintering areas and occupied more overall river sections during spring and summer (out of 6 total seasons often used by Ililiwak). We did not detect namew moving upstream or downstream during freeze-up and winter. Generally, namew showed the greatest acceleration and travelled the longest distances during spring and summer, and they occupied shallower water during summer at lower water levels and deepest waters during freeze-up. We found an interaction between season and diurnal period, where namew occupied shallower depths and had higher acceleration at dawn and night relative to morning and afternoon in most seasons; dusk behaviour was variable among seasons. However, this pattern was absent in spring, when namew showed no diurnal pattern in acceleration and were in shallower water during morning and afternoon. Diurnal patterns were less pronounced, but detectable, during ice-affected seasons. This river provides year-round habitat for namew, and our data reveal distinct patterns of namew occupancy, movement, and behaviour in a free-flowing, intact river. Our work is an example of successfully co-creating research that addresses both scientific and community priorities.
Novedades Bibliográficas
Authors: Comité Editorial Teuken Bidikay
Published: February 2024

En esta edición el Comité Editorial dedica su espacio de novedades bibliográficas a la reseña de los libros: 
"Responsabilidad Social Empresarial. Las pyme en una economía emergente" de las autoras  Marta Ríos y María Dolores Sánchez. Realizada por Karina Valencia.
El Economista Callejero (2a ed.). del autor Axel Kaiser, realizada por Diana Yineth Agudelo
"Prácticas pedagógicas en educación contable: lo que pasa en el aula" del autor-editor  Jhonny Grajales, realizada por Mariam Fernanda Gil.
Una breve historia de la igualdad del autor Thomas Piketty y Traducción de Daniel Fuentes. Realizada por Maryi Yohana Obando.
Anesthesia-mediated neuroinflammatory sequelae in post operative cognitive dysfunction: mechanisms and therapeutic implications
Authors: Smith Gregory T. , Chen Tytus J. , Shah Neha M. , Agrest Brett , Grotticelli Janet
Published: February 2024

Post-operative cognitive dysfunction (POCD) is an iatrogenic cognitive decline with unclear etiology. While current hypotheses include surgical and pharmacological-induced neuroinflammatory mechanisms, the growing prevalence, especially amongst the geriatric population, emphasizes the ambiguity of the dysfunction. Recent studies have highlighted the potential role of general and regional anesthesia in the pathogenesis of POCD; these pharmacological effects have been demonstrated to disrupt blood-brain barrier integrity, influence microglial polarization, and have been linked to worsening prognoses in cognitive decline. Moreover, mechanical stress from surgical intervention and reperfusion injury may exacerbate the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby increasing oxidative stress to the brain synergistically with blood-brain barrier disruptions. In previous studies, factors for the variable incidence and various risk factors have been explored. In this review, we examine the pharmacological effects of local, regional, and general anesthesia on molecular and cellular glial response, along with its intercellular interactions and previously reported clinical outcomes.
Deciphering the impacts of modulating the Wnt-planar cell polarity (PCP) pathway on alveolar repair
Authors: Kim Sally Yunsun , McTeague David , Cheong Sek-Shir , Hind Matthew , Dean Charlotte H.
Published: February 2024

Many adult lung diseases involve dysregulated lung repair. Deciphering the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern intrinsic lung repair is essential to develop new treatments to repair/regenerate the lungs. Aberrant Wnt signalling is associated with lung diseases including emphysema, idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and pulmonary arterial hypertension but how Wnt signalling contributes to these diseases is still unclear. There are several alternative pathways that can be stimulated upon Wnt ligand binding, one of these is the Planar Cell Polarity (PCP) pathway which induces actin cytoskeleton remodelling. Wnt5a is known to stimulate the PCP pathway and this ligand is of particular interest in regenerative lung biology because of its association with lung diseases and its role in the alveolar stem cell niche. To decipher the cellular mechanisms through which Wnt5a and the PCP pathway affect alveolar repair we utilised a 3-D ex-vivo model of lung injury and repair, the AIR model. Our results show that Wnt5a specifically enhances the alveolar epithelial progenitor cell population following injury and surprisingly, this function is attenuated but not abolished in Looptail (Lp) mouse lungs in which the PCP pathway is dysfunctional. However, Lp tracheal epithelial cells show reduced stiffness and Lp alveolar epithelial cells are less migratory than wildtype (WT), indicating that Lp lung epithelial cells have a reduced capacity for repair. These findings provide important mechanistic insight into how Wnt5a and the PCP pathway contribute to lung repair and indicate that these components of Wnt signalling may be viable targets for the development of pro-repair treatments.
Production of anhydrous hydrogen fluoride from fluorosilicic acid: a review
Authors: Yang Huachun , Li Shijiang , Yu Hehua , Liu Haixia , Sun Kai , Chen Xiaolan
Published: February 2024

Anhydrous hydrogen fluoride (AHF), a critical raw material for industries such as aluminum, pharmaceuticals, and petroleum, has traditionally been sourced from fluorite—a non-renewable mineral. The unsustainable reliance on fluorite has catalyzed the search for alternative AHF production methods. A promising substitute is fluorosilicic acid (FSA), a byproduct of the phosphate fertilizer industry previously deemed waste. Transforming fluorosilicic acid into AHF not only yields a valuable resource but also addresses the environmental and economic challenges associated with waste management. The innovative practice of producing AHF from fluorosilicic acid signals a shift towards sustainable chemical production by capitalizing on waste, potentially diminishing reliance on fluorite and reducing the industry’s environmental impact. This review thoroughly dissects the AHF synthesis process from fluorosilicic acid. Despite the acknowledged importance of fluorinated compounds in numerous industrial applications, research on their synthesis from fluorosilicic acid is limited and fragmented. This review seeks to amalgamate this scattered information by closely scrutinizing diverse industrial processing methods. Additionally, it explores the current and future landscape, economic feasibility, and strategies to navigate the obstacles inherent in synthesizing AHF from fluorosilicic acid. It also assesses the environmental impact of these methods, thereby contributing to the dialogue in this emerging field. The primary aim of this manuscript is to foster further research and promote the industrial uptake of this sustainable process. Highlighting the challenges and proposing potential improvements, the review supports the responsible reuse of waste and advocates for advancements in industrial practices.
Correlation of the serum cell division cycle 42 with CD4+ T cell subsets and in-hospital mortality in Stanford type B aortic dissection patients
Authors: Peng Hui , Wang Xugang , Zhang Longfei , Su Yang , Yan Jieli , Wu Xin
Published: February 2024

Objective

Cell division cycle 42 (CDC42) regulates CD4+T-cell differentiation and participates in vascular stiffness and atherosclerosis and is involved in the progression of Stanford type B aortic dissection (TBAD). This study aimed to explore the correlation between serum CDC42 level and CD4+T cell subsets and in-hospital mortality in TBAD patients.

Methods

Serum CDC42 and peripheral blood T-helper (Th) 1, Th2, and Th17 cells were detected in 127 TBAD patients by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and flow cytometry, respectively. Serum CDC42 was also quantified in 30 healthy controls.

Results

Serum CDC42 was decreased in TBAD patients vs. healthy controls (median [interquartile range (IQR)]: 418.0 (228.0–761.0) pg/ml vs. 992.0 (716.3–1,445.8) pg/ml, P < 0.001). In TBAD patients, serum CDC42 was negatively correlated with Th17 cells (P = 0.001), but not Th1 (P = 0.130) or Th2 cells (P = 0.098). Seven (5.5%) patients experienced in-hospital mortality. Serum CDC42 was reduced in patients who experienced in-hospital mortality vs. those who did not (median (IQR): 191.0 (145.0–345.0) pg/ml vs. 451.5 (298.3–766.8) pg/ml, P = 0.006). By receiver operating characteristic analysis, serum CDC42 showed a good ability for estimating in-hospital mortality [area under curve = 0.809, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.662–0.956]. By the multivariate logistic regression analysis, elevated serum CDC42 [odd ratio (OR) = 0.994, 95% CI = 0.998–1.000, P = 0.043] was independently correlated with lower risk of in-hospital mortality, while higher age (OR = 1.157, 95% CI = 1.017–1.316, P = 0.027) was an independent factor for increased risk of in-hospital mortality.

Conclusion

Serum CDC42 negatively associates with Th17 cells and is independently correlated with decreased in-hospital mortality risk in TBAD patients.
Study of 3-D velocity structure characteristics in Dadu river Houziyan reservoir area at different impoundment stages
Authors: Yang Zhenggang , Cao Junxing , Wu Yuchuan , Qin Juan , Huang Huibao , Du Xingzhong , Yang Mingxing , Wu Jianchao
Published: February 2024

High-resolution three-dimensional VP, VS and VP/VS images in the Houziyan Reservoir Area were obtained by using Fast Marching Tomography Package (FMTOMO) with the travel time data from 6330 seismic events monitored by the Houziyan Reservoir Seismic Network. This analysis yielded the 3-D velocity structure, including longitudinal wave velocity (VP), shear wave velocity (VS), and the ratio of longitudinal and shear wave velocity (VP/VS) at different impoundment stages. The data changes at various impoundment times, depths of sections, and directions of profiles were analyzed to obtain these results. The final findings demonstrate the following results: 1) Through tomographic analysis, it was determined that the underground velocity structure in the Houziyan reservoir area was anisotropic before impoundment. 2) The area of high wave velocity increases in stage 1, stage 3, and stage 4. The area of low wave velocity increases in stage 2, especially in depth, indicating significant changes in the underground velocity structure at different impoundment stages. 3) Compared to the changes in underground velocity structures in other reservoirs after impoundment, the Houziyan reservoir exhibited a unique pattern. 4) In general, the underground velocity structure displayed an overall increasing trend after impoundment. However, it also exhibited instances of decreasing velocity, reflecting continuous dynamic adjustments to the underground velocity structure after impoundment. These conclusions highlight the impact of impoundment in the reservoir area on the underground velocity structure and provide scientific theoretical support for seismic risk assessment following impoundment in the reservoir area.
Exploring support strategies and training needs for teachers in navigating illness, bereavement, and death-related challenges in the classroom: a scoping review supporting teachers in classroom grief and loss
Authors: Riera-Negre Laia , Hidalgo-Andrade Paula , Rosselló Maria Rosa , Verger Sebastià
Published: February 2024

This scoping review aimed to examine support strategies teachers can use to address illness, grief, and death in the classroom. A total of 24 scientific articles were analyzed from various databases: Medline (PubMed), SCOPUS, Web of Science, Education Resources Information Center (ERIC), Scielo, Dialnet Plus, ScienceDirect Elsevier, OECD Library, and PsycInfo. These articles were subjected to a rigorous quality analysis process. Through a narrative thematic analysis, six categories emerged: (1) the transformative school as an instrument of change, (2) normalizing illness, bereavement, and death, (3) students with limiting illnesses and their classmates, (4) difficulties and needs, (5) rethinking classroom actions and intervention proposals, and (6) benefits of technology and training needs. The findings of the review encompass a range of proposals and strategies for providing support in the classroom, with a particular emphasis on the use of new technologies, artificial intelligence, and social robotics. These tools are seen as effective means to facilitate remote presence, remote participation, and academic progress for students who are unable to physically attend school. The review also provides practical recommendations to empower teachers with effective strategies for supporting students dealing with illness and bereavement.
Avoiding parasitical uses of global solidarity
Authors: Shults Lee Michael
Published: February 2024

This article critically engages the normative implications of referring to small-scale, “pop-up” aid actors as Citizen Initiatives for Global Solidarity (CIGS) in the context of citizen-initiated disaster and humanitarian response. The force of the term “global solidarity” can be powerful, yet the precise meaning of the concept is often ambiguous. In light of this ambiguity, this article works toward conceptual clarity while questioning whether or not the label “CIGS” is an instance of parasitical solidarity—a rhetorical use of global solidarity that implies more, or different, moral content than is actually present in the practices being described as solidaristic. While answers to that question will differ on a case-to-case basis, the conversations across regions and disciplines that this special issue aims to contribute toward will benefit from a careful consideration of how to avoid parasitical uses of global solidarity. In addition, sensitivity on this front is an important component of decolonizing the discourse of aid by decentering the roles of volunteers. Operationalizing global solidarity with an eye toward “pop-up” humanitarian responses generates a conceptual starting point that is required for these interdisciplinary conversations, regardless of whether that operationalization is ultimately utilized, adjusted, or rejected by those engaging disaster response from different standpoints.
Multifunctional dietary interventions, low-grade inflammation and cardiometabolic profile: a scoping review
Authors: Hornero-Ramirez Hugo , Aubin Adrien , Michalski Marie-Caroline , Vinoy Sophie , Caussy Cyrielle , Nazare Julie-Anne
Published: February 2024

Background

Growing evidence highlights the significant impact of diet to modify low-grade inflammation closely linked to cardiometabolic profile. Multifunctionnal diets, combining several compounds have been shown to beneficially impact metabolic parameters.

Objective

This study synthesizes the knowledge on the impact of RCTs combining dietary multifunctional compounds on low-grade inflammation in humans. We investigate whether the effects of dietary multifunctional interventions on inflammatory markers were parallel to alterations of cardiometabolic parameters.

Methodology

We considered both the integrated dietary interventions (ID, i.e. global diets such as Mediterranean, Nordic…) and the dietary interventions based on selected bioactive mix (BM) compounds, in healthy individuals and those at cardiometabolic risk. Out of 221 screened publications, we selected 27 studies: 11 for BM (polyphenols and/or omega-3 fatty acids and/or antioxidants and/or dietary fiber) and 16 for ID (Mediterranean, paleo, Nordic, Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet…).

Results

ID studies reflected significant improvements in inflammatory markers (CRP, IL-6, IL-10, IL-1b), concomitantly with beneficial changes in metabolic parameters. In BM studies, pronounced effects on low-grade inflammatory markers were observed, while improvements in metabolic parameters were not consistent. Both types of studies suggested a favorable impact on oxidative stress, a factor closely linked to the inflammatory profile.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that multifunctional RCT diets have differential role in managing low-grade inflammation and cardiometabolic health, with a large heterogeneity in explored inflammatory markers. Further research is imperative to elucidate the link between low-grade inflammation and other cardiometabolic risk factors, such as intestinal inflammation or postprandial inflammatory dynamics, aiming to attain a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms involved in these processes. These future investigations not only have the potential to deepen our insights into the connections among these elements but also pave the way for significant advancements in the prevention and management of conditions related to the cardiovascular and metabolic systems.
Effect of autologous dendritic cell cytokine-induced killer on refractory metastatic colorectal cancer: a matched case–control comparative study
Authors: Chang Sheng-Chi , Ke Tao-Wei , Chen William Tzu-Liang , Shyu Weoi-Cherng , Jeng Long-Bin
Published: February 2024

Background

Patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) who are refractory to two or more lines of systemic chemotherapy have limited therapeutic options. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of autologous dendritic cell cytokine-induced killer (DC-CIK) transfer on the survival of patients with mCRC who are refractory or intolerant to at least two lines of systemic chemotherapies.

Methods

A matched case–control comparative study was conducted with patients who received DC-CIK immunotherapy in addition to standard chemotherapy (cases) and those with standard chemotherapy alone (controls). The primary objective was to compare the duration of oncologic survival, including overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS), between the two groups.

Results

A total of 27 cases and 27 controls were included. The median OS in the DC-CIK case group was 18.73 ± 5.48 months, which was significantly longer than that in the control group (14.23 ± 1.90 months, p = 0.045). However, there was no significant difference in PFS between the two groups (p = 0.086). Subgroup analysis showed that in patients with liver or extra-regional lymph node metastasis, DC-CIK cases had longer OS than controls (17.0 vs. 11.87 months, p = 0.019; not match vs. 6.93 months, p = 0.002, respectively). In patients with Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group (ECOG) scale 0 or wild RAS/BRAF, DC-CIK cases showed a significant increase in OS duration compared to controls (28.03 vs. 14.53 months, p = 0.038; 18.73 vs. 11.87 months, p = 0.013, respectively).

Conclusions

The addition of autologous DC-CIK to standard chemotherapy had a positive effect on OS of patients with refractory mCRC, especially those with liver or extra-regional lymph node metastasis, ECOG = 0, and wild RAS/BRAF status.
Crosstalk between innate immunity and rumen-fecal microbiota under the cold stress in goats
Authors: Luo Tao , Zhu Jiangjiang , Li Kerui , Li Yongtao , Li Jun , Chen Yu , Shi Hengbo
Published: February 2024

The balance of the microbiome, which is sensitive to temperature changes, plays a crucial role in maintaining overall health and reducing the risk of diseases. However, the specific mechanisms by which immunity and microbiota interact to adapt to cold stress have yet to be addressed. In this study, Nanjiang Yellow goats were chosen as a model and sampled during the cold (winter, cold stress) and warm (spring) seasons, respectively. Analyses of serum immune factors, as well as the composition of rumen and fecal microbial communities, were conducted to explore the crosstalk between microbiota and innate immunity under cold stress. Significantly increased levels of IgA (P < 0.01) were observed in the cold season compared to the warm season. Conversely, the levels of IL-2 (P = 0.02) and IL-6 (P < 0.01) diminished under cold stress. However, no significant differences were observed in IgG (P = 0.89), IgM (P = 0.42), and IL-4 (P = 0.56). While there were no significant changes in the diversity of bacterial communities between the warm and cold seasons, positive correlations between serum IgA, IL-2, IL-6 concentrations and several genera were observed. Furthermore, the weighted gene co-expression network analysis indicated that the microbiota enriched in the MEbrown module positively correlated with IgA, while the microbiota enriched in the MEblue module positively correlated with IL-2 and IL-6. The strong correlation between certain probiotics, including Alistipes, Bacteroides, Blautia, and Prevotellaceae_UCG.004, and the concentration of IL-2, and IL-6 suggests their potential role in immunomodulatory properties. This study provides valuable insights into the crosstalk between microbial communities and immune responses under the challenge of cold stress. Further studies on the immunomodulatory properties of these probiotics would contribute to the development of strategies to enhance the stress resistance of animals for improved overall health and survival.
The use of spaceborne lidar to map Antarctic krill distributions and biomass in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Zhong Chunyi , Chen Peng , Zhang Zhenhua , Xie Congshuang , Zhang Siqi , Sun Miao , Wu DanChen
Published: February 2024

The Antarctic krill is a pivotal species in the Southern Ocean ecosystem, primarily due to its extraordinary nutritional content and plentiful resources. Studying the distribution of these resources and their environmental impact factors is crucial for the successful development of Antarctic krill fisheries. Traditional methodologies such as acoustic measurements, however, often face limitations in their capacity to provide a comprehensive and uninterrupted assessment. Moreover, the six-month duration of polar nights in polar regions presents significant challenges for traditional satellite observations. In this context, LiDAR, an active remote sensing observation method, offers a promising alternative. Known for their high resolution, flexibility, and efficiency, LiDAR systems can obtain detailed information on diurnal ocean parameters in polar regions on a vast scale and in a systematic way. Our study utilizes the spaceborne LiDAR system, CALIPSO, to successfully attain continuous Antarctic krill CPUE over the past decade, using various models such as the generalized linear model (GLM), artificial neural network (ANN), and support vector machine (SVM). A comparative analysis of the prediction results reveals that while both ANN and SVM models outperform the GLM, the SVM’s prediction capabilities are somewhat unstable. Our findings reveal CALIPSO’s potential in overcoming challenges associated with traditional satellite observations during polar winters. In addition, we found no obvious pattern of interannual variation in krill CPUE, with high values predominantly occurring from February to May. This suggests that krill is mainly located around the South Shetland Islands during January-April, before moving offshore towards South Georgia in May-June. A substantial krill aggregation community is found in the South Atlantic waters, indicating high potential for krill fishing. The optimum mix layer depth range for high krill CPUE is 270-390 m, with a chlorophyll concentration of approximately 0.1 mg m-3. The optimum sea surface temperature range is between -1.4-5.5°C, and the sea ice coverage range is approximately 0-0.1×106 km2. The predicted Antarctic krill bioresource has risen from 2.4×108 tons in 2011 to 2.8×108 tons in 2020. This increase in krill biomass aligns with the biomass of krill assessed by CCAMLR.
An investigation of magnetic field distribution for assembly of magnets and its effect on alignment of steel fiber in aligned steel fiber-reinforced concrete
Authors: Xu Mingfeng , Li Hui , Mu Ru
Published: February 2024

The magnetic field method for preparing aligned steel fiber-reinforced concrete (ASFRC) by solenoid coil has a limitation, which is that the specimen must be placed inside the solenoid coil, limiting its practical engineering application. To overcome this shortcoming, this study proposes a method for preparing ASFRCs using an external magnetic field created by assembled magnets. A theoretical model is proposed to predict the distribution of the external magnetic field and the orientation coefficient of ASFRCs prepared by assembled magnets. The predicted results are compared with the experimental results to verify the proposed model. Finally, flexural tests are used to compare the mechanical characteristics of ASFRCs prepared using assembled magnets and solenoid coil. The results indicate that the assembled magnets can be used to prepare the ASFRC with an orientation coefficient of 0.9 or higher, and the flexural strength is similar to that of the ASFRC prepared by the solenoid coil.
Advances in genetic profile and therapeutic strategy of pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Siyu , Wang Xinyue , Li Hui , Zhao Peiyan , Liu Jingjing , Zhang Liang , Cheng Ying
Published: February 2024

Pulmonary large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) is a high-grade neuroendocrine carcinoma (HGNEC) accounting for 3% of primary lung cancer, and characterized by strong invasion, high heterogeneity, and extremely poor prognosis. At present, the diagnosis and treatment of LCNEC remains controversial and refer to therapeutic strategy of small cell lung cancer (SCLC), lacking precise therapy. Recently, the genetic analysis and clinical trials of LCNEC gradually emerged, providing more evidence for precise diagnosis and treatment. Here, we review the diagnosis, molecular characteristics, and treatment of LCNEC based on the existing research and frontier progress to provide a potential direction for future diagnosis and treatment of LCNEC.
Pregnancy as a susceptible state for thrombotic microangiopathies
Authors: Frimat Marie , Gnemmi Viviane , Stichelbout Morgane , Provôt François , Fakhouri Fadi
Published: February 2024

Pregnancy and the postpartum period represent phases of heightened vulnerability to thrombotic microangiopathies (TMAs), as evidenced by distinct patterns of pregnancy-specific TMAs (e.g., preeclampsia, HELLP syndrome), as well as a higher incidence of nonspecific TMAs, such as thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura or hemolytic uremic syndrome, during pregnancy. Significant strides have been taken in understanding the underlying mechanisms of these disorders in the past 40 years. This progress has involved the identification of pivotal factors contributing to TMAs, such as the complement system, ADAMTS13, and the soluble VEGF receptor Flt1. Regardless of the specific causal factor (which is not generally unique in relation to the usual multifactorial origin of TMAs), the endothelial cell stands as a central player in the pathophysiology of TMAs. Pregnancy has a major impact on the physiology of the endothelium. Besides to the development of placenta and its vascular consequences, pregnancy modifies the characteristics of the women’s microvascular endothelium and tends to render it more prone to thrombosis. This review aims to delineate the distinct features of pregnancy-related TMAs and explore the contributing mechanisms that lead to this increased susceptibility, particularly influenced by the “gravid endothelium.” Furthermore, we will discuss the potential contribution of histopathological studies in facilitating the etiological diagnosis of pregnancy-related TMAs.
Molecular genetic variability of Cryphonectria hypovirus 1 associated with Cryphonectria parasitica in South Tyrol (northern Italy)
Authors: Ahmad Farooq , Tomada Selena , Poonsiri Thanalai , Baric Sanja
Published: February 2024

Cryphonectria hypovirus 1 (CHV-1) has been widely studied and used as a biocontrol agent because of its ability to infect the chestnut blight fungus, Cryphonectria parasitica, and to reduce its virulence. Knowledge about the hypovirus, its presence, and diversity is completely lacking in South Tyrol (northern Italy), which may obstruct biocontrol measures for chestnut blight based on CHV-1. This work aimed to study the occurrence of CHV-1 infecting C. parasitica in South Tyrol and to perform a genetic characterization of the hypovirus. In South Tyrol, CHV-1 was found to occur in 29.2% of the fungal isolates investigated, varying in frequency between different regions and chestnut stands. Twenty-three haplotypes based on partial cDNA (complementary DNA) sequences of open reading frame (ORF)-A and 30 haplotypes based on partial cDNA sequences of ORF-B were identified among 47 and 56 hypovirulent fungal isolates, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all the haplotypes belonged to the Italian subtype of CHV-1 and that they were closely related to the populations of Italy, Switzerland, Croatia and Slovenia. Evidence of recombination was not found in the sequences and point mutations were the main source of diversity. Overall, this study indicated that the prevalence of CHV-1 in South Tyrol is low compared to many other central and western European populations and determined a need to actively impose biocontrol measures. Using sequence analysis, we identified some variants of interest of CHV-1 that should be studied in detail for their potential use in biocontrol.
Genome sequence diversity of SARS-CoV-2 in Serbia: insights gained from a 3-year pandemic study
Authors: Novkovic Mirjana , Banovic Djeri Bojana , Ristivojevic Bojan , Knezevic Aleksandra , Jankovic Marko , Tanasic Vanja , Radojicic Verica , Keckarevic Dusan , Vidanovic Dejan , Tesovic Bojana , Skakic Anita , Tolinacki Maja , Moric Ivana , Djordjevic Valentina
Published: February 2024

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), responsible for the COVID-19 pandemic, has been evolving rapidly causing emergence of new variants and health uncertainties. Monitoring the evolution of the virus was of the utmost importance for public health interventions and the development of national and global mitigation strategies. Here, we report national data on the emergence of new variants, their distribution, and dynamics in a 3-year study conducted from March 2020 to the end of January 2023 in the Republic of Serbia. Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs from 2,398 COVID-19-positive patients were collected and sequenced using three different next generation technologies: Oxford Nanopore, Ion Torrent, and DNBSeq. In the subset of 2,107 SARS-CoV-2 sequences which met the quality requirements, detection of mutations, assignment to SARS-CoV-2 lineages, and phylogenetic analysis were performed. During the 3-year period, we detected three variants of concern, namely, Alpha (5.6%), Delta (7.4%), and Omicron (70.3%) and one variant of interest—Omicron recombinant “Kraken” (XBB1.5) (<1%), whereas 16.8% of the samples belonged to other SARS-CoV-2 (sub)lineages. The detected SARS-CoV-2 (sub)lineages resulted in eight COVID-19 pandemic waves in Serbia, which correspond to the pandemic waves reported in Europe and the United States. Wave dynamics in Serbia showed the most resemblance with the profile of pandemic waves in southern Europe, consistent with the southeastern European location of Serbia. The samples were assigned to sixteen SARS-CoV-2 Nextstrain clades: 20A, 20B, 20C, 20D, 20E, 20G, 20I, 21J, 21K, 21L, 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D, 22E, and 22F and six different Omicron recombinants (XZ, XAZ, XAS, XBB, XBF, and XBK). The 10 most common mutations detected in the coding and untranslated regions of the SARS-CoV-2 genomes included four mutations affecting the spike protein (S:D614G, S:T478K, S:P681H, and S:S477N) and one mutation at each of the following positions: 5′-untranslated region (5’UTR:241); N protein (N:RG203KR); NSP3 protein (NSP3:F106F); NSP4 protein (NSP4:T492I); NSP6 protein (NSP6: S106/G107/F108 - triple deletion), and NSP12b protein (NSP12b:P314L). This national-level study is the most comprehensive in terms of sequencing and genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 during the pandemic in Serbia, highlighting the importance of establishing and maintaining good national practice for monitoring SARS-CoV-2 and other viruses circulating worldwide.
Inorganic phosphate modifies stationary phase fitness and metabolic pathways in Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum CRL 1905
Authors: Araoz Mario , Grillo-Puertas Mariana , de Moreno de LeBlanc Alejandra , Hebert Elvira María , Villegas Josefina María , Rapisarda Viviana Andrea
Published: February 2024

Inorganic phosphate (Pi) concentration modulates polyphosphate (polyP) levels in diverse bacteria, affecting their physiology and survival. Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum CRL 1905 is a lactic acid bacterium isolated from quinoa sourdough with biotechnological potential as starter, for initiating fermentation processes in food, and as antimicrobial-producing organism. The aim of this work was to evaluate the influence of the environmental Pi concentration on different physiological and molecular aspects of the CRL 1905 strain. Cells grown in a chemically defined medium containing high Pi (CDM + P) maintained elevated polyP levels up to late stationary phase and showed an enhanced bacterial survival and tolerance to oxidative stress. In Pi sufficiency condition (CDM-P), cells were ~ 25% longer than those grown in CDM + P, presented membrane vesicles and a ~ 3-fold higher capacity to form biofilm. Proteomic analysis indicated that proteins involved in the “carbohydrate transport and metabolism” and “energy production and conversion” categories were up-regulated in high Pi stationary phase cells, implying an active metabolism in this condition. On the other hand, stress-related chaperones and enzymes involved in cell surface modification were up-regulated in the CDM-P medium. Our results provide new insights to understand the CRL 1905 adaptations in response to differential Pi conditions. The adjustment of environmental Pi concentration constitutes a simple strategy to improve the cellular fitness of L. paraplantarum CRL 1905, which would benefit its potential as a microbial cell factory.
The effects of ambient temperature and feeding regimens on cecum bacteria composition and circadian rhythm in growing rabbits
Authors: Shuai He  , Zhang Ke-Hao , Jin Qiong-Yu , Wang Qiang-Jun , Huang Jie , Li Jun-Jiao , Guo Yao , Liu Peng , Liu Zhong-Ying , Liu Dan , Geng Shi-Xia , Li Qin , Li Ming-Yong , Liu Man , Wu Zhong-Hong
Published: February 2024

Seasonal environmental shifts and improper eating habits are the important causes of diarrhea in children and growing animals. Whether adjusting feeding time at varying temperatures can modify cecal bacterial structure and improve diarrhea remains unknown. Three batches growing rabbits with two groups per batch were raised under different feeding regimens (fed at daytime vs. nighttime) in spring, summer and winter separately, and contents were collected at six time points in 1 day and used 16S rRNA sequencing to investigate the effects of feeding regimens and season on the composition and circadian rhythms of cecum bacteria. Randomized forest regression screened 12 genera that were significantly associated with seasonal ambient temperature changes. Nighttime feeding reduced the abundance of the conditionally pathogenic bacteria Desulfovibrio and Alistipes in summer and Campylobacter in winter. And also increases the circadian rhythmic Amplicon Sequence Variants in the cecum, enhancing the rhythm of bacterial metabolic activity. This rhythmic metabolic profile of cecum bacteria may be conducive to the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the host cecum. In addition, this study has identified 9 genera that were affected by the combination of seasons and feeding time. In general, we found that seasons and feeding time and their combinations affect cecum composition and circadian rhythms, and that daytime feeding during summer and winter disrupts the balance of cecum bacteria of growing rabbits, which may adversely affect cecum health and induce diarrhea risk.
Evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of TpN17 and TmpA recombinant proteins in syphilis detection: a phase II study
Authors: Silva Ângelo Antônio Oliveira , Lima Ayla Araújo , Vasconcelos Larissa Carvalho Medrado , Almeida Rosângela Andrade , Freitas Natália Erdens Maron , Oliva Talita Andrade , de Carvalho Ribeiro da Silva Miralba Freire , Marchini Fabricio Klerynton , Zanchin Nilson Ivo Tonin , de Siqueira Isadora Cristina , Santos Fred Luciano Neves
Published: February 2024

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the spiral bacterium Treponema pallidum. Diagnosis is based on epidemiology, clinical and serology, but serodiagnosis is challenging because distinct clinical forms of the infection may influence serological performance. Several recombinant Treponema pallidum-proteins have already been tested for syphilis diagnosis and they are critical to achieve high accuracy in serological testing. A total of 647 samples were included in the study: 180 T. pallidum-positive samples, 191 T. pallidum-negative samples and 276 sera from individuals infected with unrelated diseases. The diagnostic potential was validated by analysis of ROC curves. For the indirect ELISA, TpN17 (100%) and TmpA (99%) showed excellent AUC values. Sensitivity values were 97.2% for TpN17 and 90.6% for TmpA, while specificity was 100% for both molecules. According to the clinical phase, TmpA ranged from 84% to 97%, with the highest value for secondary syphilis. TpN17 was 100% sensitive for the primary and secondary stages and 93.2% for recent latent syphilis. All clinical phases achieved 100% specificity. Accuracy values showed that TmpA (> 95%) and TpN17 (> 98%) presented high diagnostic accuracy for all clinical stages of syphilis. Cross-reactivity was only observed in one sample positive for Chagas disease (1.5%), when TpN17 was evaluated. On the other hand, TmpA showed reactivity for two samples positive for Chagas disease (3.1%), one sample positive for HBV (1.25%), two samples positive for HIV (9.5%) and one sample positive for HTLV (1.6%). The TmpA antigen’s performance was evaluated in multiple studies for syphilis diagnosis, corroborating our findings. However, TpN17 sensitivity values have ranged in other studies. According to clinical stages of the infection, our findings obtained close performance values.
Decoding semiotic minimal genome: a non-genocentric approach
Authors: Gómez-Márquez Carolina , Morales J. Alejandro , Romero-Gutiérrez Teresa , Paredes Omar , Borrayo Ernesto
Published: February 2024

The search for the minimum information required for an organism to sustain a cellular system network has rendered both the identification of a fixed number of known genes and those genes whose function remains to be identified. The approaches used in such search generally focus their analysis on coding genomic regions, based on the genome to proteic-product perspective. Such approaches leave other fundamental processes aside, mainly those that include higher-level information management. To cope with this limitation, a non-genocentric approach based on genomic sequence analysis using language processing tools and gene ontology may prove an effective strategy for the identification of those fundamental genomic elements for life autonomy. Additionally, this approach will provide us with an integrative analysis of the information value present in all genomic elements, regardless of their coding status.
Overwhelmed by beauty and faith: review on artistic and religious travelers’ syndromes
Authors: Cisneros-Ceh Damaris , Esquivel-Heredia Darina , Medina-Vargas Allan , Azcorra-Perez Hugo , Chi-Mendez Claudia Guadalupe , Marin-Cardenas Alina D. , Mendez-Dominguez Nina
Published: February 2024

Traveling with the intention of encountering art or seeking purification of the spirit involves retribution of intangible nature and therefore can be expected to be a positive experience; nevertheless, among susceptible travelers, there is also a possibility of experiencing pathological conditions. Although it is colloquially known that beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder, it is necessary to mention that the appreciation of beauty, immensity, or mysticism contained in masterpieces is not perceived only through the eyes but through other sense organs as well. Additionally, this is understood within a cultural framework and through previous knowledge. The reaction triggers a series of somatosensory responses of diverse nature, with a wide range of responses that together constitute a pathological phenomenon that can be defined as syndromic by eliciting signs and symptoms of a physical, physiological, and psychotic nature. Both Stendhal and Jerusalem syndromes are travelers’ syndromes that may occur in response to objectively aesthetic elements saturated with meaning linked to the cultural heritage of contemporary humanity. While Stendhal syndrome evokes physical and psychoemotional symptoms from the contemplation of art, Jerusalem syndrome goes beyond perception, adding delusions of being a religious or prophetic protagonist pursuing individual or collective salvation.
A systematic review of the effectiveness of epilepsy education programs on knowledge, attitudes, and skills among primary school learners
Authors: Makhado Thendo Gertie , Sepeng Nombulelo Veronica , Makhado Lufuno
Published: February 2024

Epilepsy is a common neurological condition affecting primary school learners, often leading to misconceptions, stigma, and limited social inclusion. These misconceptions transpire because of a lack of knowledge regarding the condition and may lead to high school dropouts. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of epilepsy education programs on epilepsy-related knowledge and understanding, values and attitudes, and skills among primary school learners. A thorough search of electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies published between January 2000 and September 2023. Studies that satisfied the eligibility criteria were chosen, and two reviewers conducted data extraction independently. A narrative synthesis approach was utilised to analyse the findings. The review included 10 studies that satisfied the inclusion requirements. The epilepsy education interventions varied in content, duration, and delivery method. Findings indicated that diverse delivery methods, such as classroom-based programs, hospital-based programs, and community-centred interventions, effectively enhanced epilepsy-related knowledge and understanding, values and attitudes, and skills among primary school learners. This systematic review provides evidence that epilepsy education programs can effectively enhance epilepsy-related knowledge, understanding, values, attitudes, and skills among primary school learners. These findings support developing and implementing comprehensive guidelines for teaching epilepsy in primary schools, suggesting various delivery methods and integrating cultural values to promote optimal learning outcomes and social inclusion for learners with epilepsy.