bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hospital-level variation in hospitalization costs for spinal fusion in the United States
Authors: Curry Joanna , Cho Nam Yong , Nesbit Shannon , Kim Shineui , Ali Konmal , Gudapati Varun , Everson Richard , Benharash Peyman
Published: February 2024

Background

With a growing emphasis on value of care, understanding factors associated with rising healthcare costs is increasingly important. In this national study, we evaluated the degree of center-level variation in the cost of spinal fusion.

Methods

All adults undergoing elective spinal fusion were identified in the 2016 to 2020 National Inpatient Sample. Multilevel mixed-effect models were used to rank hospitals based on risk-adjusted costs. The interclass coefficient (ICC) was utilized to tabulate the amount of variation attributable to hospital-level characteristics. The association of high cost-hospital (HCH) status with in-hospital mortality, perioperative complications, and overall resource utilization was analyzed. Predictors of increased costs were secondarily explored.

Results

An estimated 1,541,740 patients underwent spinal fusion, and HCH performed an average of 9.5% of annual cases. HCH were more likely to be small (36.8 vs 30.5%, p<0.001), rural (10.1 vs 8.8%, p<0.001), and located in the Western geographic region (49.9 vs 16.7%, p<0.001). The ICC demonstrated 32% of variation in cost was attributable to the hospital, independent of patient-level characteristics. Patients who received a spinal fusion at a HCH faced similar odds of mortality (0.74 [0.48–1.15], p = 0.18) and perioperative complications (1.04 [0.93–1.16], p = 0.52), but increased odds of non-home discharge (1.30 [1.17–1.45], p<0.001) and prolonged length of stay (β 0.34 [0.26–0.42] days, p = 0.18). Patient factors such as gender, race, and income quartile significantly impacted costs.

Conclusion

The present analysis identified 32% of the observed variation to be attributable to hospital-level characteristics. HCH status was not associated with increased mortality or perioperative complications.
Expression of MHC II in DRG neurons attenuates paclitaxel-induced cold hypersensitivity in male and female mice
Authors: Whitaker Emily E. , Mecum Neal E. , Cott Riley C. , Goode Diana J.
Published: February 2024

Chemotherapy is often a life-saving treatment, but the development of intractable pain caused by chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a major dose-limiting toxicity that restricts cancer survival rates. Recent reports demonstrate that paclitaxel (PTX) robustly increases anti-inflammatory CD4+ T cells in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG), and that T cells and anti-inflammatory cytokines are protective against CIPN. However, the mechanism by which CD4+ T cells are activated, and the extent cytokines released by CD4+ T cells target DRG neurons are unknown. Here, we are the first to detect major histocompatibility complex II (MHCII) protein in mouse DRG neurons and to find CD4+ T cells breaching the satellite glial cell barrier to be in close proximity to neurons, together suggesting CD4+ T cell activation and targeted cytokine release. MHCII protein is primarily expressed in small nociceptive neurons in male and female mouse DRG but increased after PTX in small nociceptive neurons in only female DRG. Reducing one copy of MHCII in small nociceptive neurons decreased anti-inflammatory IL-10 and IL-4 producing CD4+ T cells in naïve male DRG and increased their hypersensitivity to cold. Administration of PTX to male and female mice that lacked one copy of MHCII in nociceptive neurons decreased anti-inflammatory CD4+ T cells in the DRG and increased the severity of PTX-induced cold hypersensitivity. Collectively, our results demonstrate expression of MHCII protein in mouse DRG neurons, which modulates cytokine producing CD4+ T cells in the DRG and attenuates cold hypersensitivity during homeostasis and after PTX treatment.
Intracellular presence of Helicobacter pylori antigen and genes within gastric and vaginal Candida
Authors: Yang Tingxiu , Li Jia , Zhang Yuanyuan , Deng Zhaohui , Cui Guzhen , Yuan Jun , Sun Jianchao , Wu Xiaojuan , Hua Dengxiong , Xiang Song , Chen Zhenghong
Published: February 2024

Background

Helicobacter pylori infections are generally acquired during childhood and affect half of the global population, but its transmission route remains unclear. It is reported that H. pylori can be internalized into Candida, but more evidence is needed for the internalization of H. pylori in human gastrointestinal Candida and vaginal Candida.

Methods

Candida was isolated from vaginal discharge and gastric mucosa biopsies. We PCR-amplified and sequenced H. pylori-specific genes from Candida genomic DNA. Using optical and immunofluorescence microscopy, we identified and observed bacteria-like bodies (BLBs) in Candida isolates and subcultures. Intracellular H. pylori antigen were detected by immunofluorescence using Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-labeled anti-H. pylori IgG antibodies. Urease activity in H. pylori internalized by Candida was detected by inoculating with urea-based Sabouraud dextrose agar, which changed the agar color from yellow to pink, indicating urease activity.

Results

A total of 59 vaginal Candida and two gastric Candida strains were isolated from vaginal discharge and gastric mucosa. Twenty-three isolates were positive for H. pylori 16S rDNA, 12 were positive for cagA and 21 were positive for ureA. The BLBs could be observed in Candida cells, which were positive for H. pylori 16S rDNA, and were viable determined by the LIVE/DEAD BacLight Bacterial Viability kit. Fluorescein isothiocyanate (FITC)-conjugated antibodies could be reacted specifically with H. pylori antigen inside Candida cells by immunofluorescence. Finally, H. pylori-positive Candida remained positive for H. pylori 16S rDNA even after ten subcultures. Urease activity of H. pylori internalized by Candida was positive.

Conclusion

In the form of BLBs, H. pylori can internalize into gastric Candida and even vaginal Candida, which might have great significance in its transmission and pathogenicity.
“[...] o negócio sempre acaba no médico”
Authors: Franchini da Silva Bianca
Published: February 2024

Sob a mirada da arqueogenealogia foucaultiana, estimada pelos estudos do campo discursivo e pela Linguística Aplicada (LA) Contemporânea, associada a estudos feministas e de gênero, este artigo objetiva analisar os discursos sobre as mulheres cisgênero que inseriram (ou que pretendem inserir) o Dispositivo Intrauterino (DIU) de cobre, tendo em vista os efeitos inventariados por esses discursos na relação médico-enfermeiro-paciente. O corpus é formado por excertos de duas entrevistas semiestruturadas: uma realizada com um médico ginecologista-obstetra; e outra com uma técnica em enfermagem – ambos funcionários do (microespaço) Serviço de Atendimento à Saúde da Comunidade Universitária (SASC), do Hospital Universitário (HU), da Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC). A partir dos conceitos de discurso, dispositivo e biopolítica de Foucault, em diálogo com a farmacopornografia de Preciado, as regularidades discursivas apontadas nas entrevistas analisadas possibilitam defender – tanto na construção de si que o médico faz como perito que ocupa um lugar estratégico de diferente quanto na sobrevivência de estratégias de poder pastoral nos discursos da técnica de enfermagem – o funcionamento do dispositivo microprotético DIU. Este, transitando entre discursos e práticas agonísticos/ambíguos, produz marcas de objetivação e subjetivação às mulheres que o aderem, forjando tecnobiodiscursivamente determinadas corporalidades a elas.
 
Palavras-chave: Biopolítica; Dispositivos; Tecnobiodiscurso; Saúde reprodutiva das mulheres; Dispositivo microprotético DIU.
O “kit covid” e a fissura na prática discursiva médica no combate à pandemia do Coronavírus
Authors: Bonacio Daiany
Published: February 2024

Dentre as práticas discursivas que surgiram com a pandemia, chamou-nos atenção as práticas geradas pelo acontecimento discursivo conhecido como “kit covid”. Esse acontecimento evidenciou as contradições que emergiram dentro da prática discursiva médica na forma de entregar modos de ser e dizer aos sujeitos no tocante à cura do coronavírus, uma vez que emergiram discursos favoráveis ao kit e contrários a ele. No intuito de que a “informação verdadeira” sobre como combater o vírus chegasse até as pessoas, os grupos usaram diferentes dispositivos a favor de seus discursos. Tal cenário deixou evidente uma disputa de poder dentro da medicina. A fim de compreender o referido embate, realizamos um gesto de interpretação nos discursos veiculados pela prática discursiva médica em sua tentativa de entregar aos sujeitos formas de controlar a Covid-19. Tal gesto se faz necessário, uma vez que as pessoas sentiram-se confusas, não sabendo em quem ou o quê acreditarem nesse momento em que um vírus letal assombrava suas vidas. O presente artigo se filia à corrente teórica Análise do Discurso de perspectiva foucaultiana e tem como base os estudos desenvolvidos por Michel Foucault na sua fase arquegenealógica. A partir do arcabouço teórico mencionado, deparamo-nos com uma ruptura dentro da medicina, de modo que foi possível individualizar formações discursivas discordantes acerca da cura.
El corrido de la Cristiada en Zacatecas y el norte de Jalisco
Authors: Rubio Hernansáez Luis , Becerra Villegas Jesús
Published: February 2024

Entre 1926 y 1942, se desarrolló en el occidente, centro y sur de México la Cristiada, un conflicto armado en el que el Gobierno federal se enfrentó con grupos católicos que defendían su fe y su iglesia. Una de las regiones más activas en las tres fases de la guerra estuvo conformada por la mayor parte del estado de Zacatecas y por el norte del estado de Jalisco, pertenecientes por colindancia a un mismo obispado, con sede en aquella pri-mera entidad federativa. El conflicto cristero en esta región fue especialmente profuso en composiciones populares llamadas corridos, obras de calidad literaria y musical que produjeron numerosos héroes marcados por la tragedia de un cristero o de su contrin-cante. El presente documento se suma al esfuerzo de preservación del género y ofrece un panorama abreviado del corrido durante la Guerra Cristera en la zona a partir de fuentes primarias y secundarias.
Sinonimia y formación de palabras a partir de zoónimos en el español peninsular y en el español americano
Authors: Luque Rocío
Published: February 2024

Dentro de un campo semántico, no siempre es posible apreciar los mismos procesos derivativos, ya que estos se bloquean por la presencia de un sinónimo ya existente o por especializaciones de significados. Por ello, a partir de la observación del campo semántico de los animales, un mundo que es fuente de muchos referentes para la defi-nición y la descripción de comportamientos humanos, nos proponemos analizar, tanto en el español peninsular como en el americano, con qué afijos derivan los zoónimos, si se repiten los mismos esquemas derivacionales entre denominaciones, si se forman las mismas categorías gramaticales, qué acepciones adquieren los derivados, según las con-notaciones aportadas por diferentes bases y qué relaciones sinonímicas se establecen
La educación común en los gobiernos radicales. Usos de Sarmiento en textos escolares (1916-1930)
Authors: Fernández Hernán
Published: February 2024

La presente propuesta busca problematizar los usos de Sarmiento y, en particular, su Facundo, en los libros de texto escolares aparecidos durante las primeras presidencias del radicalismo en Argentina (1916-1930). Con esa finalidad se indagan los objetivos educativos definidos por los gobiernos radicales para las escuelas comunes y, al mismo tiempo, la forma como se procuró atender parte de tales metas pedagógicas mediante diversas apelaciones al legado sarmientino. A raíz de lo apuntado, el trabajo permite evidenciar, al menos, dos cuestiones centrales. Por un lado, contrario a lo sostenido por la tradición de lectura, el Facundo no siempre fue la principal obra de referencia de Sarmiento. Y, en segundo lugar, el artículo observa innovaciones en las propuestas esco-lares precisadas por el radicalismo respecto a la coyuntura histórica previa a la llegada de esta fuerza política al poder
Trascender fronteras en el Caribe: diversidad lingüística y creolización
Authors: Solinas Marcella
Published: February 2024

Este artículo explora la compleja intersección entre fronteras geográficas, históricas y lingüísticas en la región caribeña. El objetivo es destacar la cuestión de la diversidad lingüística como factor crucial en la construcción de una identidad compartida, al desafiar nociones tradicionales de unidad lingüística y nacional. En este contexto, la creolización emerge como fenómeno clave para entender la complejidad del área. Se toman como punto de referencia las teorías de Édouard Glissant sobre poética de la relación, para presentar el Caribe como un polisistema cultural trans-lingüístico en el que el multilingüismo puede actuar no solo como límite, sino, sobre todo, como un medio de expresión de la diversidad y la especificidad cultural
Érase otra vez "La casa verde"... El mito de la creación de la ciudad moderna y la civilización del espectáculo
Authors: Breusa Luca
Published: February 2024

A pesar de lo mucho que la crítica ya escribió sobre la novela La casa verde, del peruano Mario Vargas Llosa, aún queda algo por decir, sobre todo con respecto a la dimensión mítica muy peculiar que el autor introduce en el libro. A menudo, los lectores de la novela destacan la ambientación selvática y la atmósfera mítica como los elementos más significativos de la narración y sugirieren una relación entre estos dos aspectos. Sin em-bargo, lo mítico se sitúa en otro contexto narrativo, es decir, en el contexto urbano de Piura. Las coordenadas geográficas de la legendaria Casa Verde y los recursos narrativos utilizados por el autor dan lugar a un mito de creación muy alejado del contexto selváti-co y, por el contrario, narran el origen de la ciudad latinoamericana bajo el influjo de la civilización del espectáculo.
Modulaciones krauso-positivistas para una pedagogía antiautorita-ria. “Medio ambiente”, “acción fructífera” y “gobierno propio” en Carlos Norberto Vergara.
Authors: Visaguirre Leonardo
Published: February 2024

Las recepciones y reelaboraciones del krausismo en América Latina, sobre todo en Argentina, integran un nodo temático que no ha sido suficientemente explorado por la historia de las ideas filosóficas y peda-gógicas. Si nos centramos en la incidencia en la pedagogía en la educación argentina de principio de siglo XX, las vacancias son aún mayores. Los antecedentes más importantes de este tema son las investigaciones de Arturo Roig y Hugo Biagini en el ámbito filosófico y su incidencia en otras esferas sociales, políticas y culturales, y los trabajos sobre historia de la educación de Adriana Puigros y de Sandra Carli, entre otros. Nuestro objetivo es dar cuenta de la repercusión de las ideas krausistas en el normalista Carlos Norberto Vergara (1859-1929). La metodología propuesta pertenece a una intersección entre la historia de las ideas filosóficas y pedagógicas y la epistemología crítica Partimos de una anticipación de sentido, la incidencia de las ideas krausistas en Carlos Vergara y el trabajo de reapropiación, situado en su horizonte histórico para elaborar una pedagogía antiautoritaria. Ponemos el foco en la producción discursiva del mencionado pensador krausista, en particular en su voluminoso libro Revolución pacífica (1911). Su obra y acción dan cuenta de un lugar de enunciación diferencial, que disputa el sentido del proceso de modernización estatal argentino de fines del siglo XIX y principio del siglo XX. Discute con la educación autoritaria estatal y su intención de formar una población obediente y útil a las necesidades de una burguesía terrateniente. En oposición propone una educación republicana y libertaria, en el sentido krausista armonicista
Trans‐spinal magnetic stimulation induces co‐activation of the diaphragm and biceps in healthy subjects
Authors: Ren Ming‐Yue , Liou Li‐Min , Vinit Stéphane , Lee Kun‐Ze
Published: February 2024

The present study was designed to examine the effect of trans‐spinal magnetic stimulation on bilateral respiratory and forelimb muscles in healthy subjects. Two wings of a figure‐of‐eight magnetic coil were placed on the dorsal vertebrae, from the fifth cervical to the second thoracic dorsal vertebra with a center at the seventh cervical vertebra. The surface electromyograms of bilateral diaphragm and biceps were recorded in response to trans‐spinal magnetic stimulation with 20%–100% maximum output of the stimulatory device in male (n = 12) and female participants (n = 8). Trans‐spinal magnetic stimulation can induce a co‐activation of bilateral diaphragm and biceps when the stimulation intensity is above 60%. The onset latency was comparable between the left and right sides of the muscles, suggesting bilateral muscles could be simultaneously activated by trans‐spinal magnetic stimulation. In addition, the intensity–response curve of the biceps was shifted upward compared with that of the diaphragm in males, indicating that the responsiveness of the biceps was greater than that of the diaphragm. This study demonstrated the feasibility of utilizing trans‐spinal magnetic stimulation to co‐activate the bilateral diaphragm and biceps. We proposed that this stimulatory configuration can be an efficient approach to activate both respiratory and forelimb muscles.
Perceived teacher feedback practices, student feedback motivation and engagement in English learning: a survey of Chinese university students
Authors: Gan Zhengdong , Wang Xianrong
Published: February 2024

Drawing on recent theorizing of feedback in educational assessment and psychology, the current study aimed to examine the links between perceived teacher feedback practices, student feedback motivation and engagement in English learning. Seven hundred and sixty-four Chinese university students attending a tertiary-level English enhancement course (N = 764; age: M = 19.45, SD = 0.88; 57.3 % female) participated in this study. The students completed surveys measuring their perceived teacher feedback practices, feedback motivation and engagement. Scaffolding feedback, verification feedback, and criticism were found to significantly predict student feedback motivation. Feedback enjoyment significantly predicted student feedback engagement, but there was no positive significant relationship between perceived feedback usefulness and feedback engagement. Indirect effects testing provided empirical evidence that student feedback motivation mediated the impact of teacher feedback on student feedback engagement in a university English enhancement course context.
Die

Bremische Bibliographie
Authors: Hermes-Wladarsch Maria , Reinbach Jens
Published: February 2024

Zum 1. Juni 2023 ging die Bremische Bibliographie als Regionalbibliographie des Bundeslandes Bremen online: www.bremische-bibliographie.de. Die Bremische Bibliographie ist ein Teilbestand der von der Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Bibliothek (GWLB) in Hannover betreuten Niedersächsischen Bibliographie, deren Infrastruktur sie auch nutzt. Im folgenden Beitrag wird die Bremische Bibliographie vorgestellt. Besonderes Augenmerk liegt auf der Frage, was Nutzerinnen und Nutzer durch die eigene Webansicht einer Bremischen Bibliographie gewinnen.

Die Erstellung der Bremischen Bibliographie ist Teil des landesbibliothekarischen Aufgabenspektrums der Staats- und Universitätsbibliothek (SuUB) Bremen, das diese für das Bundesland Bremen ausübt. Die Verantwortung und Koordination für die gesamte Durchführung liegt in der GWLB in Hannover.
“Why are These Problems Still Unresolved?” Those Pending Problems, and Neglected Contradictions in Online Classroom in the Post-COVID-19 Era
Authors: Zhao Yi , Mohd Yusof Sanitah , Hou Mingyu
Published: February 2024

To investigate the pending problem and improve the effectiveness of online classrooms in the post-COVID-19 era, researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 41 teachers from China, the Philippines, and other countries who have experienced long-time online classrooms. The research indicated that (1) all problems the teachers face in the online classroom can be classified into two types, including internal problems (the problems in teachers’ teaching, students’ learning, classroom discipline, and students’ psychology) and external problems (the problems in hardware and equipment, school management, education equity and privacy protection, and family interference). (2) To better improve online classroom effectiveness, teachers strongly call for a series of reforms, including the reform of school management, curriculum and teaching, after-class instruction, and psychological support, which require schools, teachers, and parents to work together to make fundamental improvements. (3) Educational equity issues caused by economic development level, long-term inefficient online interaction, and various internal contradictions are the fundamental reasons why the previous problems existing in the online classroom have not been solved. Teachers, schools, educational researchers, and government departments need to deeply study and analyze these reasons, which will help solve a series of past and present problems in the online classroom.
Act and Rule Consequentialism: A Synthesis
Authors: Suikkanen Jussi
Published: February 2024

As an indirect ethical theory, rule consequentialism first evaluates moral codes in terms of how good the consequences of their general adoption are and then individual actions in terms of whether or not the optimific code authorises them. There are three well-known and powerful objections to rule consequentialism’s indirect structure: the ideal-world objection, the rule-worship objection, and the incoherence objection. These objections are all based on cases in which following the optimific code has suboptimal consequences in the real world. After outlining the traditional objections and the cases used to support them, this paper first constructs a new hybrid version of consequentialism that combines elements of both act and rule consequentialism. It then argues that this novel view has sufficient resources for responding to the previous traditional objections to pure rule consequentialism.
Construction of amidinothiourea crosslinked graphene oxide membrane by multilayer self-assembly for efficient removal of heavy metal ions
Authors: Yang Boshen , Hu Xuebing , Zhou Qintao
Published: February 2024

Amidinothiourea crosslinked graphene oxide membrane was prepared by a multilayer self-assembly method along with (3-aminopropyl) triethoxysilane modification, while different thicknesses of the membrane layer were obtained by regulating the volume of graphene oxide dispersion. The removal rate of the membrane layer with different thicknesses of heavy metal ions was explored and its removal mechanism was explained. The results show that the membrane can maintain high stability after 90 days of immersion in water. When the volume of graphene oxide dispersant increases from 9 ml to 15 ml, the thickness of the membrane layer enhances from about 120 nm to about 200 nm. After filtration of 140 ml of different nitrate solutions, the water fluxes of different membranes are about 22.6 l m−2 h−1·bar−1, 6.1 l m−2 h−1·bar−1, and 1.4 l m−2 h−1·bar−1, respectively. The removal rates of the preferred membrane for Pb2+, Cd2+, and Cu2+ are 43.3 %, 41.2 %, and 39.7 %, respectively. The ion removal mechanism is mainly due to the Dornan effect.
Nietzsche on Evolution and Progress
Authors: Conrad Jordan A.
Published: February 2024

The thesis that humanity progresses in a lawlike manner from inferior states (of wellbeing, cognitive skills, culture, etc.) to superior ones dominated eighteenth- and nineteenth- century thought, including authors otherwise as diverse as Kant and Ernst Haeckel. Positioning himself against this philosophically and scientifically popular view, Nietzsche suggests that humanity is in a prolonged state of decline. I argue that Nietzsche’s rejection of the thesis that progress is inevitable is a product of his acceptance of Lamarck’s use-and-disuse theory of evolution and his belief that society selects for traits beneficial to society and negatively selects for traits that promote individual flourishing. This explains Nietzsche’s emphasis on self-development as cultivating traits that Nietzsche views as valuable and that would, by Lamarck’s theory of evolution, become heritable and so help steer our evolutionary trajectory, correcting our decline.
Incorporation of phytic acid into reed straw-derived hydrochar for highly efficient and selective adsorption of uranium(VI)
Authors: Xia Hongtao , Liu Yuting , Wang Yang , Feng Zihao , Ren Qi , Lv Jianqi , Li Yang , Du Yanjun , Wang Yun
Published: February 2024

An innovative phytic acid modified reed straw-derived hydrochar composite (PA-C-RBC) was prepared by using inexpensive reed straw and non-toxic phytic acid for the removal of uranium(VI) from aqueous environment. Several characterization results showed that PA-C-RBC was rough and porous with a large number of hydroxyl, carboxyl, and phosphate groups. The uranium(VI) adsorption process by PA-C-RBC conformed to pseudo-second-order kinetic and Langmuir models, and the theoretical maximal adsorption capacity could attain 418.78 mg/g at pH 5.0. PA-C-RBC had 72.66 % of selectivity and 6772.99 mL/g of distribution coefficient for U(VI). Due to the strong chelating between the hydroxyl and phosphate groups on PA-C-RBC and U(VI), PA-C-RBC had excellent adsorption selectivity. These finding highlighted a high potential for removing U(VI) from aqueous solutions.
Evaluation Model of Human Resource Allocation Balance for Healthy Environment in Organizations Based on Big Data Driven and Internet of Things
Authors: Xu Peiyao , Wang Jianyong , Huang Fengtao , Lin Chao , Zhou Chennan
Published: February 2024

To improve the ability of balanced evaluation, dynamic allocation, level of output, and profitability of human resources, a balanced evaluation model of human resources allocation is proposed based on big data driven and the Internet of Things. An evaluation architecture model of human resource allocation balance in view of big data driven and the Internet of Things is established; a multithread big data driven configuration model and the Internet of Things are used to construct a table model of enterprise human resource optimal allocation in the form of reports; statistical regression analysis method is used to detect the risks and process parameters in the process of enterprise human resource optimal allocation; and employment elasticity theory analysis is taken to establish a resource factor analysis model of human resource balanced allocation under the constraint of economic growth mode. According to the changing trend of the scale and structure of labor resources, statistical regression analysis is adopted to make big data driven analysis in the process of balanced evaluation of human resources allocation, and balanced game control is adopted to analyze the relevant factors affecting human resources allocation to realize balanced scheduling of population flow and human resources allocation and automatic post adjustment. The empirical analysis results show that the system has a good balance in human resource allocation, the output efficiency among the various elements of human resource allocation is improved, and there is a high level of efficiency in human resource output.
Amyloid-β-Induced Dendritic Spine Elimination Requires Ca2+-Permeable AMPA Receptors, AKAP-Calcineurin-NFAT Signaling, and the NFAT Target Gene Mdm2
Authors: Martinez Tyler P. , Larsen Matthew E. , Sullivan Emily , Woolfrey Kevin M. , Dell’Acqua Mark L.
Published: February 2024

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is associated with brain accumulation of synaptotoxic amyloid-β (Aβ) peptides produced by the proteolytic processing of amyloid precursor protein (APP). Cognitive impairments associated with AD correlate with dendritic spine and excitatory synapse loss, particularly within the hippocampus. In rodents, soluble Aβ oligomers (Aβo) impair hippocampus-dependent learning and memory, promote dendritic spine loss, inhibit NMDA-type glutamate receptor (NMDAR)-dependent long-term potentiation (LTP), and promote synaptic depression (LTD), at least in part through activation of the Ca2+-CaM-dependent phosphatase calcineurin (CaN). Yet, questions remain regarding Aβ-dependent postsynaptic CaN signaling specifically at the synapse to mediate its synaptotoxicity. Here, we use pharmacologic and genetic approaches to demonstrate a role for postsynaptic signaling via A kinase-anchoring protein 150 (AKAP150)-scaffolded CaN in mediating Aβ-induced dendritic spine loss in hippocampal neurons from rats and mice of both sexes. In particular, we found that Ca2+-permeable AMPA-type glutamate receptors (CP-AMPARs), which were previously shown to signal through AKAP-anchored CaN to promote both LTD and Aβ-dependent inhibition of LTP, are also required upstream of AKAP-CaN signaling to mediate spine loss via overexpression of APP containing multiple mutations linked to familial early-onset AD (FAD) and increased Aβ production. In addition, we found that the CaN-dependent nuclear factor of activated T-cells (NFAT) transcription factors is required downstream to promote Aβ-mediated dendritic spine loss. Finally, we identified the E3-ubiquitin ligase Mdm2, which was previously linked to LTD and developmental synapse elimination, as a downstream NFAT target gene upregulated by Aβ whose enzymatic activity is required for Aβ-mediated spine loss.
Divergent Changes in PBN Excitability in a Mouse Model of Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Torruella-Suárez María L. , Neugebauer Benjamin , Flores-Felix Krystal , Keller Asaf , Carrasquillo Yarimar , Cramer Nathan
Published: February 2024

The transition from acute to chronic pain involves maladaptive plasticity in central nociceptive pathways. Growing evidence suggests that changes within the parabrachial nucleus (PBN), an important component of the spino–parabrachio–amygdaloid pain pathway, are key contributors to the development and maintenance of chronic pain. In animal models of chronic pain, PBN neurons become sensitive to normally innocuous stimuli and responses to noxious stimuli become amplified and more often produce afterdischarges that outlast the stimulus. Using ex vivo slice electrophysiology and two mouse models of neuropathic pain, sciatic cuff and chronic constriction of the infraorbital nerve (CCI-ION), we find that changes in the firing properties of PBN neurons and a shift in inhibitory synaptic transmission may underlie this phenomenon. Compared to PBN neurons from shams, a larger proportion of PBN neurons from mice with a sciatic cuff were spontaneously active at rest, and these same neurons showed increased excitability relative to shams. In contrast, quiescent PBN neurons from cuff mice were less excitable than those from shams. Despite an increase in excitability in a subset of PBN neurons, the presence of afterdischarges frequently observed in vivo were largely absent ex vivo in both injury models. However, GABAB-mediated presynaptic inhibition of GABAergic terminals is enhanced in PBN neurons after CCI-ION. These data suggest that the amplified activity of PBN neurons observed in rodent models of chronic pain arise through a combination of changes in firing properties and network excitability.
Development and evaluation of methotrexate nanocomposites using Β-cyclodextrins/alginate polymers and response surface methodology
Authors:   Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Isra University, Amman 11622, Jordan, Hussein A. M. , Hussein-Al-Ali S. H. ,   Department of Basic Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Isra University, Amman 11622, Jordan
Published: February 2024

β-cyclodextrin and alginate polymers have been extensively investigated for their use in drug delivery systems. β-Cyclodextrin-alginate nanoparticles (CD/Alg) as an innovative drug carrier was the preapared by ionic chelation method. Methotrexate (MTX) as model drug was loaded onto the β-CD/Alg nanoparticles to form MTX-CD/Alg nanocomposites, via ionic interactions. The study was to investigate the changes in independent variables (concentration of CD, Alg and CaCl2) loading efficiency and particle size using 4-levels of CD, 5-levels of Alg and 4-levels of CaCl2. The Optimum nanocomposite has %LE (58.1% and particle size (213 nm). The prepared nanocomposites were chrecterized by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), a thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and a release study. FTIR analysis displayed the drug into nanocomposites. The XRD pattern of MTX-β-CD/Ag nanocomposite suggested a peak at 2θ = 44.6° with the amorphous properties. A novel MTX-CD/Alg nanocomposites was developed. Optimized, characterized, and release studied was performed. These nanocomposites will be prmosing by delivering the drug in powder form
Adsorption kinetics behavior of MB dye on CaO nanosheets
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Al-Rass 51921, Saudi Arabia, Modwi A. , Aissa M. A. ,   Department of Chemistry, College of Science and Arts, Qassim University, Al-Rass 51921, Saudi Arabia, Alakhras A. I. ,   Chemistry Department, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 13318, Saudi Arabia, Idriss H. ,   Physics Department, College of Science, Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 13318, Saudi Arabia
Published: February 2024

The work reported herein demonstrates the fabrication of CaO nanosheets employing a thermal decomposition method. The obtained CaO nanosheets were characterized using TEM, BET, XRD, EDX, and FTIR instruments. Moreover, the effect of initial dye concentration and pH on MB removal by CaO nanosheets was studied. The result showed that the nanoparticles have sizes around 100 nm, and the CaO nanosheets have an average diameter of 50 nm. Meanwhile, the average pore diameter and surface area of CaO are 15.847 Å and 5.881 m2. g−1 , respectively. Numerical models based on Temkin, Freundlich, and Langmuir were applied to adsorption data to better understand the MB dye adsorption onto CaO nanoparticles. The sorption findings demonstrated a stronger fit with the Temkin model (R2 = 0.983) compared to the Freundlich model (R2 = 0.947) and Langmuir model (R2 = 0.968). The maximum adsorption capacity of MB on the CaO nanoparticles is 688.01 mg/g. The investigation determined that the adsorption kinetics adhered to the Pseudo-second-order kinetic model(R2 =0.982).
Sodium-iodide symporter and its related solute carriers in thyroid cancer
Authors: Gong Zhongqin , Wei Minghui , Vlantis Alexander C , Chan Jason Y K , Van Hasselt C Andrew , Li Dongcai , Zeng Xianhai , Xue Lingbin , Tong Michael C F , Chen George G
Published: February 2024

The solute carrier (SLC) family is a large group of membrane transport proteins. Their dysfunction plays an important role in the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer. The most well-known SLC is the sodium-iodide symporter (NIS), also known as sodium/iodide co-transporter or solute carrier family 5 member 5 (SLC5A5) in thyroid cancer. The dysregulation of NIS in thyroid cancer is well documented. The role of NIS in the uptake of iodide is critical in the treatment of thyroid cancer, radioactive iodide (RAI) therapy in particular. In addition to NIS, other SLC members may affect the autophagy, proliferation, and apoptosis of thyroid cancer cells, indicating that an alteration in SLC members may affect different cellular events in the evolution of thyroid cancer. The expression of the SLC members may impact the uptake of chemicals by the thyroid, suggesting that targeting SLC members may be a promising therapeutic strategy in thyroid cancer.
The Cellulose/Water Relationship
Authors:   Department of Wood Chemistry and Cellulose Technology, Technical University of Norway, Trondheim, Christensen P. K. , Giertz H. W. ,   Department of Wood Chemistry and Cellulose Technology, Technical University of Norway, Trondheim
Published: February 2024

This paper is a condensed survey of the interactions between water and cellulose materials. It is introduced by some general remarks about the interaction of water with solids, with special attention to hydrogen bonds, solutions and gels, then about the chemical and physical properties of cellulose fibres. The main discussion is devoted to the interaction of water below and above the saturation point, dimensional changes and restricted swelling, drying and hysteresis and, finally, the quantitative measurements of the absorbed water.
Doota adhyaya of Bhela indriya sthana - An explorative study
Authors: Mamidi Prasad , Gupta Kshama
Published: February 2024

‘Maharshi Bhela’ belongs to samhita period (100 BC - 400 BC) and he has composed an Ayurvedic treatise known as ‘Bhela samhita’. Bhela samhita is divided in to 8 sections and 120 chapters. Indriya sthana is one among the 8 sections of ‘Bhela samhita’ and it comprised of 12 chapters. Like ‘Indriya sthanas’ of other ancient Ayurvedic texts, ‘Bhela indriya sthana’ also deals with arishta lakshanas (fatal signs and symptoms) and other prognostic aspects. ‘Doota adhyaya’ is the 8th chapter of ‘Bhela indriya sthana’ which comprises of 16 verses dealing with estimation of prognosis based on the characteristic features of caregiver (doota). Estimating prognosis based on the phenotypic characteristics of caregiver is the unique contribution of Ayurveda and ‘Maharshi Bhela’ has allotted a separate chapter for this in ‘Indriya sthana’ (doota adhyaya). The contents of ‘doota adhyaya’ are unique and needs further in-depth exploration. Previous works conducted on ‘Charaka indriya sthana’ and ‘Bhela indriya sthana’ have explored various neglected concepts having prognostic importance. Studies on ‘Doota adhyaya’ of ‘Bhela indriya sthana’ have been lacking and the present study is aimed to explore the contents of this chapter in terms of their prognostic significance. Thousands of years ago, ‘Maharshi Bhela’ has identified and documented concepts like caregiver burden & distress, factors determining the impact of caregiving on caregivers, desirable or positive personality characteristics of a caregiver and their influence on prognosis and role and impact of geographical, cultural, economic, social and personality characteristics of a caregiver on caregiving and prognosis of a disease condition of the patient or care recipient. Concepts of ‘Jyotishya shastra’ (astrology) and ‘Nimitta’ or ‘Shakuna shastra (astrology of omens)’ were also incorporated in assessing the prognosis. Further works are required to establish the facts mentioned in this chapter.
Determination of Mo-93 inventory in irradiated BWR tie plate using triple quadrupole ICP-MS
Authors: Tanaka Shingo , Tezuka Naoki , Taniuchi Toshinori , Ueda Hiroyoshi , Sakuragi Tomofumi
Published: February 2024

The inventory of radionuclides is a crucial input parameter for the safety assessment of irradiated metal waste. Among the radionuclides, Mo-93 is remarkable radionuclide owing to its long half-life (4,000 years) and poor sorptive property (anionic species). A method for determining Mo-93 by measuring characteristic X-rays was proposed previously; however, this method requires complex sequential and/or chromatographic separation of Mo-93. In the present study, triple quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS/MS)—a leading-edge method—was used to determine the inventory of Mo-93 in an irradiated boiling water reactor (BWR) tie plate (stainless steel) for the first time. Furthermore, an activation calculation for Mo-93 was conducted using ORIGEN2. The results indicated that the inventory of Mo-93 in the BWR tie plate was 690 ± 83 Bq/g. This study demonstrates that triple quadrupole ICP-MS allows the simple quantitative analysis of Mo-93 in irradiated stainless steel without complex chemical separation.

Graphical abstract
Optimizing synthesis strategies for the production of single-phase zirconates with Ce and Nd co-doping
Authors: Richter Selina , Gilson Sara E. , dos Santos Luiza Braga Ferreira , Huittinen Nina
Published: February 2024

Zirconia-based ceramics are promising host matrices for the immobilization of radionuclides in high-level waste streams due to their high radiation resistance and chemical stability. This study explores coprecipitation and different solid-state synthesis techniques to produce phase-pure zirconia-based ceramics with varying cerium and neodymium co-doping. Varying the dopant concentration enabled the synthesis of zirconates with monoclinic, cubic defect fluorite, and cubic pyrochlore structures. Powder X-ray diffraction was used for phase identification. In the case of coprecipitation, all synthesized compositions were predominantly phase-pure. Solid-state synthesis techniques included manual mixing of metal oxide powders with mortar and pestle, mechanical mixing in a ball mill, and magnetic mixing in a slurry. All solid-state mixing methods produced heterogeneous ceramics, featuring multiple phases, with manual mixing yielding the most phase-pure product. Extending the grinding time, re-sintering of the solid phases, and an increased Nd content were found to enhance the phase purity.

Graphical abstract
Establishing an Oxidative Stress Model in the Human Mesencephalic Cell Line (LUHMES): an in vitro study
Authors: Sevim Akan Handan , Örsoğlu Özgü Zuğa , Gurpinar Özer Aylin
Published: February 2024

Oxidative stress-caused neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, are widely recognized as the most prevalent brain and central nervous system disorders. This is attributed to the vulnerability of neurons to oxidative stress within the body. Although substantial research has been performed on these diseases, it is extremely difficult to establish an oxidative stress model for brain tissues. In primary cultures, it is difficult to obtain neurons and the continuity of the culture is limited for in vitro cell line models. By providing valuable insights into the mechanisms of oxidative stress-induced neurodegenerative diseases, these in vitro models can aid in the development of effective treatment strategies. Here, we developed an in vitro oxidative stress model utilizing hydrogen peroxide on the LUHMES cell line. Our study evaluated the impact of this model on LUHMES cell viability and the equilibrium between oxidants and antioxidants by assaying total oxidant capacity (TOC) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Our results provided evidence of the oxidative effect of hydrogen peroxide in critical concentration and proved the efficacy of this model for further investigations.
DUAL-BAND BANDSTOP FILTERS BASED ON ULTRA THIN FREQUENCY SELECTIVE SURFACES
Authors: Perov Andrei O.
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we present designs for terahertz filters with two independent stopbands based on periodic metallic resonant structures patterned on the dielectric substrate. Two simple and thin structures are proposed to realize required characteristics for single-polarized and dual polarized filter designs. To realize single polarized one, a unit cell of the proposed periodic structure consists
of two sets rectangular shape conducting metal patches patterned on the top of the dielectric substrate, and the dual-band response is due the lattice resonances observed in the unit cell. To realize dual polarized filter design, a modified unit cell is considered with additional patches on
the bottom of the dielectric substrate. The patches on the bottom layer are the same ones as on the top layer but orthogonally oriented. For this case, polarization-independent frequency response can be obtained after geometric optimization of the unit cell because the top and the bottom layers resonantly interact with only the TE or TM incident plane wave to minimize cross coupling effects between the layers. In order to intensively understand the transmission performance of the proposed filters, a large number of simulations using integral equation method are performed based on the different values for permittivity, period of the unit cell, dielectric thickness, and geometric dimensions. The electric field distributions are analyzed to understand the mechanism of the resonance behavior.
Ternary medium constitutive model of frozen rubber-reinforced expansive soil
Authors: Yang Z. , Cheng Z. , Cai G. , Ling X. , Shi W.
Published: February 2024

The application of waste rubber for soil improvement is feasible, and the static and dynamic properties of rubber-reinforced soils have been extensively studied. However, the mechanical properties of frozen rubber-reinforced expansive soils have not been effectively studied due to the complexity of multiphase media under the action of multiple fields, and no applicable constitutive models describe them. In this paper, the stress-strain relationship model for frozen rubber-reinforced expansive soils is investigated over a range of strain rates from 0.18% to 0.3% and the following conclusions were obtained: (1) The structural model of the frozen rubber-reinforced expansive soil can be considered a ternary medium model that consists of elasto-brittle bonding elements, elasto-plastic friction elements and elastic friction elements. (2) The stress-strain relationship can be divided into three stages: linear elastic stage, elasto-plastic stage and strain softening (RC ≤ 15%) or hardening (RC = 20%) stage. (3) The rubber content has a greater influence on the stress-strain relationship. When the rubber content reaches 20%, the expression of the stress-strain curve changes from strain softening to strain hardening, at which time the rubber dominates. (4) The maximum shear strength of frozen rubber-reinforced expansive soil is obtained at 10% rubber content.
Causes of the high friction angle of diatomaceous soil: microscale and nanoscale insights
Authors: Zhang Xianwei , Liu Xinyu , Wang Gang , Xu Yiqing , Gao Haodong
Published: February 2024

Diatomaceous soil has geotechnical properties that differ fundamentally from those of common non-diatomaceous soils due to the presence of diatom microfossils with biological origins. Despite its dominant fines content, diatomaceous soil usually has high frictional shear resistance (approaching that of sand). Currently, the exact role of diatoms in controlling soil strength and underlying mechanisms remain obscure. Here, the frictional strength of diatomaceous soil is evaluated by way of angle of repose and direct simple shear tests on diatom–kaolin mixtures with differing diatom content. The microscale and nanoscale structures are characterised in detail using scanning electron and atomic force microscopy to establish how soil structure evolves with diatom content and shear. For the studied diatom–kaolin mixtures, the angle of repose and internal frictional angle are high and increase with diatom content, especially when the diatom content exceeds 20%. Diatom content controls the frictional strength through its intricate morphology (cylindrical, saucer and disc shapes), very rough surface (hundreds of times rougher than flaky minerals) and stiff frustules with high Young's modulus. These features increase the particle coordination number and produce interparticle interlockings, both of which prevent particle rearrangement during shear and improve the frictional strength. This paper provides new insights into the multiscale structure of diatoms and improves understanding of the shear strength of diatomaceous soils.