bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Percepção das mulheres sobre o climatério e menopausa
Authors: Ribeiro Lisa Santos Carvalho , Rodrigues Isaú D’Ávila , Ferreira Karoline Bandeira , Ferreira Juliana Barros
Published: March 2024

De acordo a Organização Mundial da Saúde (OMS) o período de transição entre a fase reprodutiva e não reprodutiva é demarcado como climatério, tratando-se de uma fase da vida da mulher e, correspondendo a um processo fisiológico. Já a menopausa, corresponde a última menstruação, somente reconhecida após 12 meses consecutivos de amenorreia, ocorrendo entre 45 e 55 anos de idade. Nesta etapa da vida, há uma redução de hormônios, principalmente do estrogênio, um hormônio sexual sintetizado pelos ovários com função de desenvolver as características femininas como, por exemplo, crescimento das mamas, e possui papel fundamental no ciclo menstrual, na saúde óssea e na reprodução. Posto isto, na menopausa é comum o surgimento de sinais e sintomas decorrentes desta alteração fisiológica, sendo os achados mais comuns clínicos e psicoemocionais: atrofia e ressecamento vaginal, dispareunia, urgência urinária, insônia, fogacho, estresse, irritabilidade, depressão e redução da libido. Contudo, ainda muito se questiona na literatura como cada paciente experimenta este processo, sua percepção sobre esses sintomas e mudanças de humor repentinas e, mais importante, como ela se percebe neste meio. Desta forma, o estudo possui como objetivo geral: compreender a percepção, desafios e queixas clínicas das mulheres quanto à vivência do climatério e menopausa. Foi realizada uma revisão de literatura, sendo constatado que as mulheres com baixa escolaridade possuem mais dificuldade em compreender esta fase de sua vida, além disso, observou que todas as mulheres apresentam queixas, contudo, algumas com maior intensidade do que outras.
Robert Burns: Reflections in The Victorian Lantern
Authors: Gallagher Kevin Thomas , Russell Michael W. , Smith George
Published: March 2024

This article discusses a collection of Victorian ‘Magic Lantern’ slides and supporting paraphernalia concerning the poet Robert Burns. Utilising newly uncovered source materials, it investigates individuals concerned with the creation and ownership of the slides on Burns, including the firm of George Washington Wilson, and also examines the history of their presentation through the example of C. J. Parker, exploring their significance, determining what type of Burns was being propagated to Parker's audiences, and analysing how publically presented readings of Burns therein were constrained by dominant editorial interpretations from the period. Research has discovered that the Burns slides collection is the most complete, publicly held collection in Scotland. This article illustrates the collection's significant cultural and financial value as a fascinating relic of Burns's cultural memory and of early Scottish photography.
Pengaruh Self Efficacy, Motivasi Kerja Dan Komitmen Organisasional Terhadap Kinerja Karyawan BPD Bank Jateng KCP Temanggung
Authors: Kusumaningrum Fatmawati , Fauziyanti Wachidah
Published: March 2024

This study aims to determine; 1) The effect of Self Efficacy on employee performance, 2) The effect of work motivation on employee performance, 3) The effect of organizational commitment on employee performance, and 4) The effect of Self Efficacy, work motivation, and organizational commitment on employee performance. Qualitative data were collected using a questionnaire with a sample of 100 employees of Bank Jateng Temanggung Branch with Data Analysis Test techniques using multiple linear regression tests. The results showed that 1) Self Efficacy has a significant effect on employee performance with a Thitung value of 4.605 greater than the Ttable value of 1.66023 with a significant value of 0.000 which is smaller than 0.050. 2) Work motivation has a positive effect on employee performance with a Thitung value of 4.813 greater than the Ttable value of 1.66023 with a significant value of 0.000 which is smaller than 0.05. 3) organizational commitment has a significant effect on employee performance with a Thitung value of 4.912 greater than the Ttable value of 1.66023 with a significant value of 0.000 which is smaller than 0.05. 4) Self Efficacy, work motivation and organizational commitment to employee performance are evidenced by the Fcount value of 63,760 greater than the F table value of 2,134 and a significance value of 0.00. The coefficient of determination in this research model is 64.3%, while the remaining 33.7% is influenced by other factors.
Güvenlik Kültürü ve İş Sağlığı Güvenliği Konusunda Kadın Çalışanların Farkındalığı: Tekstil Sektörü Üzerine Bir Çalışma
Authors: Okur Merve , Yurtsever Adem
Published: March 2024

Bu çalışmada kadın çalışan istihdamının yoğun olduğu tehlikeli ve emek yoğun bir sektör olan tekstil sektöründe kadın çalışanların İş Sağlığı ve Güvenliği (İSG) uygulamalarına bakış açısını ortaya koyabilmek amaçlanmıştır. Çalışma kapsamında bir tekstil fabrikasındaki 180 kadın çalışana 35 soruluk 5’li Likert tipi ölçekle hazırlanan anket uygulanmıştır. Kadın çalışanların İSG konusundaki bilgi ve tecrübeleri değerlendirilerek, İSG kültürünün günümüz çalışma koşullarındaki durumu kadın çalışanların bakış açısıyla ortaya konmaya çalışılmıştır. Yapılan anket neticesinde, çalışanlarının %54'ünün "Kadın çalışanlara yönelik çıkarılan kanunların iyileştirilmesi gerektiğini düşündüğü”, bununla birlikte %49'luk kısmının ise “Kadın çalışanlar açısından gece vardiyasının erkek çalışanlara kıyasla daha zorlayıcı olduğunu düşündüğü”  tespit edilmiştir. Genel olarak değerlendirildiğinde ise kadın çalışanların güvenlik kültürü ve İSG farkındalıklarının yetersiz olduğu ortaya konmuştur.
A Discourse Analysis of Women Sexuality in the Lyrics of an Anonymous Turkish Folk Song
Authors: Kasap Süleyman
Published: March 2024

This qualitative study examines the gender dynamics and societal expectations embedded within a traditional song and its associated story. Focusing on the themes of virginity and women purity, the research investigates the power structures, control, and cultural implications reflected in the narrative. Through a comprehensive literature review, we explore existing scholarship on gender studies and societal norms surrounding virginity. The song and story are analyzed, highlighting the depiction of the character Nazife, a fifteen-year-old girl whose worth is tied to her virginity. Drawing upon gender theories, feminist theory and intersectionality, the study critically deconstructs the societal norms and power dynamics present in the narrative. The research uncovers a patriarchal notion that women sexuality is controlled by men, who act as gatekeepers of a woman's virtue. Moreover, the study examines the social stigma and shaming faced by women who do not conform to traditional expectations of purity. By analyzing the cultural and historical context, the study provides insights into the gendered dynamics prevalent during the song's origin. This research contributes to the understanding of how societal constructs impact women's agency and the importance of challenging gender norms to achieve gender equality.
Penyelidikan Motif Penulis dan Pesan Teologis Melalui Analisis Komposisi Narasi Kitab Hakim-Hakim 6-8
Authors: Adiatma Daniel Lindung , Pattinaja Aska Aprilano
Published: March 2024

This research presents a combination of two approaches, historical criticism and narrative criticism, in analyzing the motifs of the author of the book of Judges through the narrative of Israel's deliverance by Gideon. The debate among Old Testament scholars regarding historicity and theological historiography has divided opinions into two camps that are difficult to reconcile. Although each approach has its own strengths and weaknesses, the combination of both can enrich an approach to the analysis of a narrative text. Judges 6-8 are rarely interpreted using both of these approaches. For historical critical interpreters, emphasis on historicity and the documentary sources forming the narrative is crucial. However, they often overlook the literary devices that bind these historical fragments. On the other hand, narrative criticism, which focuses on literary devices, tends to trap interpreters in the subjectivity of interpretation. Some interpretations with ethical, moral, and practical theological nuances have also made leaps too far without considering the author's motifs. Through the combination of historical criticism and narrative criticism, this research has identified the author's motifs as fundamental theological values that can serve as a foundation for developing theology. This research has found that the author of the book encourages the generations of Israel to maintain their identity through theological messages about God's interaction in Israel's history during the era of Gideon.
The influence of Mg/Al molar ratio on the performance of CuMgAl-x catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol
Authors: Liu Haoran , Huang Wenbin , Xu Zhen , Jia Yijing , Huang Meng , Liu Xiaoyue , Yang Han , Li Rongrong , Wei Qiang , Zhou Yasong
Published: March 2024

The CuMgAl-x catalysts derived from hydrotalcite precursors with different Mg/Al molar ratios were synthesized and applied to CO2 hydrogenation to methanol reaction. In this study, the effects of Mg/Al molar ratio on the structure and surface properties of CuMgAl-x catalysts were investigated by XRD, N2 adsorption-desorption, SEM, TEM, H2-TPR, CO2-TPD, XPS, and in situ DRIFTS characterization methods. The results showed that an appropriate Mg/Al molar ratio can enhance the Cu-MgO interaction, increasing the basic sites and obtaining suitable acid sites. The dispersion of active Cu on the CuMgAl-x catalysts can be improved by strong Cu-MgO interaction, which enhances the adsorption capacity of CO2 and makes H2 activation easier, accelerates the conversion of intermediate species CO3* and HCO3*to HCOO*, and facilitates further conversion to CH3O* and CH3OH. The strong interaction between Cu and MgO was conducive to the formation of Cu+, which can inhibit the desorption of CO in the reverse water gas shift reaction. The CuMgAl-3 catalyst showed the highest CO2 Conversion rate (14.3%), methanol selectivity (94.5%), and STY of methanol (419.3 g⋅kgcat.−1⋅h−1) at 240°C and 2.5 MPa. The results obtained in this paper can provide a new idea for the design of high-performance catalysts for CO2 hydrogenation to methanol.
Plasma metabolomic profile is near-normal in people with HIV on long-term suppressive antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Virseda-Berdices Ana , Martín-Escolano Rubén , Berenguer Juan , González-García Juan , Brochado-Kith Oscar , Rojo David , Fernández-Rodríguez Amanda , Pérez-Latorre Leire , Hontañón Victor , Barbas Coral , Resino Salvador , Jiménez-Sousa María Ángeles
Published: March 2024

Background

Combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) has transformed human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection in people with HIV (PWH). However, a chronic state of immune activation and inflammation is maintained despite achieving HIV suppression and satisfactory immunological recovery. We aimed to determine whether the plasma metabolomic profile of PWH on long-term suppressive ART and immunologically recovered approximates the normality by comparison with healthy controls with similar age and gender.

Methods

We carried out a cross-sectional study in 17 PWH on long-term ART (HIV-RNA <50 copies/mL, CD4+ ≥500 cells/mm3, and CD4+/CD8+ ≥1) and 19 healthy controls with similar age and gender. Metabolomics analysis was performed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS). The statistical association analysis was performed by principal component analysis (PCA), partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA), and Generalized Linear Models (GLM) with a gamma distribution (log-link). Significance levels (p-value) were corrected for multiple testing (q-value).

Results

PCA and PLS-DA analyses found no relevant differences between groups. Adjusted GLM showed 14 significant features (q-value<0.20), of which only three could be identified: lysophosphatidylcholine (LysoPC) (22:6) (q-value=0.148), lysophosphatidylethanolamine (LysoPE) (22:6) (q-value=0.050) and hydroperoxy-octadecatrienoic acid (HpOTrE)/dihydroperoxy-octadecatrienoic acid (DiHOTrE)/epoxy-octadecadienoic acid (EpODE) (q-value=0.136). These significant identified metabolites were directly correlated to plasma inflammatory biomarkers in PWH and negatively correlated in healthy controls.

Conclusion

PWH on long-term ART have a metabolomic profile that is almost normal compared to healthy controls. Nevertheless, residual metabolic alterations linked to inflammatory biomarkers persist, which could favor the development of age-related comorbidities among this population.
Decreased circulating omega-3 fatty acids increase the risk of myocardial infarction: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Wang Wei , Yang Linfei , Zhang Jing , Xiang Haiyun
Published: March 2024

Background

Many studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids may play critical roles in cardiovascular diseases. Myocardial infarction (MI) typically results from a thrombotic occlusion of a coronary artery leading to myocardial ischemia. Thus, this study aims to examine the association between omega-3 fatty acids and MI.

Methods

A two-sample Mendelian randomization study was used to explore the causal relationship between circulating omega-3 fatty acids and the risk of MI performed by MR-Egger regression, inverse-variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, and weighted mode.

Results

Five single-nucleotide polymorphisms strongly related to circulating omega-3 fatty acids were selected as instrumental variables from a published genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis including 13,544 subjects. We extracted summary data for the risk of MI from another GWAS meta-analysis including 171,875 individuals (43,676 cases and 128,199 controls). The genetically predicted lower circulating omega-3 increased the risk of myocardial infarction showed by the results of IVW [odds ratio (OR) = 1.224, 95% CI = 1.045–1.433, P = 0.012], weighted median method (OR = 1.171, 95% CI = 1.042–1.315, P = 0.008), and weighted mode (OR = 1.149, 95% CI = 1.002–1.317, P = 0.117), although the result of MR-Egger was not significant (OR = 0.950, 95% CI = 0.513–1.760, P = 0.880) with a wider confidence interval.

Conclusion

The findings from our Mendelian randomization analysis suggest that the association between omega-3 fatty acid levels and MI is likely causal.
Large-scale deep reinforcement learning method for energy management of power supply units considering regulation mileage payment
Authors: Qian Ting , Yang Cheng
Published: March 2024

To improve automatic generation control (AGC) performance and reduce the wastage of regulation resources in interconnected grids including high-proportion renewable energy, a multi-area integrated AGC (MAI-AGC) framework is proposed to solve the coordination problem of secondary frequency regulation between different areas. In addition, a cocktail exploration multi-agent deep deterministic policy gradient (CE-MADDPG) algorithm is proposed as the framework algorithm. In this algorithm, the controller and power distributor of an area are combined into a single agent which can directly output the power generation command of different units. Moreover, the cocktail exploration strategy as well as various other techniques are introduced to improve the robustness of the framework. Through centralized training and decentralized execution, the proposed method can nonlinearly and adaptively derive the optimal coordinated control strategies for multiple agents and is verified on the two-area LFC model of southwest China and the four-area LFC model of the China Southern Grid (CSG).
A novel model to predict phase equilibrium state of hydrates from the relationship of gas solubility
Authors: Jiang Jianbing , Jiang Jianxun , Mao Jinchen , Li Dong , Liu Tuanhui , Pan Zhong
Published: March 2024

The study of hydrate phase equilibrium is crucial for ensuring the safety of natural gas pipeline transportation and the process of hydrate recovery. While scientists typically focus on the chemical potential of hydrates, the role of gas solubility in hydrate phase equilibrium remains unclear, and this study fills this gap. This work investigated the solubility of gas at the equilibrium point of the hydrate phase through model calculations. Additionally, a new model of hydrate phase equilibrium is established based on the relationship between solubility. Firstly, a solubility model based on gas-liquid equilibrium theory showed higher prediction accuracy in comparison to the PR equation and Duan model and was then used to calculate gas solubility under hydrate phase equilibrium conditions. Afterwards, a novel model was developed to predict hydrate equilibrium state based on the relationship between gas solubility and hydrate phase equilibrium temperature, and it was further compared with the Chen–Guo model and CSMGem in terms of prediction accuracy under pure water and brine settings. The results showed: (a) The calculation deviation of the solubility model was 0.7–8.7% in pure water settings and 2.6–11.7% in brine settings; (b) A strong linear correlation between the phase equilibrium temperature of hydrates and gas solubility was also found; (c) This proposed model achieved over 10 times the accuracy of the Chen–Guo model and the CSMGem in predicting the phase equilibrium state of N2 and CO2 hydrates, and 3–10 times higher accuracy than that of the Chen–Guo model and CSMGem in brine. This work suggests that the gas solubility equilibrium theory can provide a more accurate prediction of hydrate states.
The utility of Drosophila melanogaster as a fungal infection model
Authors: Mpamhanga Chengetai D. , Kounatidis Ilias
Published: March 2024

Invasive fungal diseases have profound effects upon human health and are on increase globally. The World Health Organization (WHO) in 2022 published the fungal priority list calling for improved public health interventions and advance research. Drosophila melanogaster presents an excellent model system to dissect host-pathogen interactions and has been proved valuable to study immunopathogenesis of fungal diseases. In this review we highlight the recent advances in fungal-Drosophila interplay with an emphasis on the recently published WHO’s fungal priority list and we focus on available tools and technologies.
T-cell count and T-cell telomere length in patients with severe COVID-19
Authors: Kraft Bryan D. , Verhulst Simon , Lai Tsung-Po , Sullenger Bruce A. , Wang Yunfei , Rountree Wes , Chen Lingye , Woods Christopher W. , Denny Thomas N. , Aviv Abraham
Published: March 2024

Lymphocyte telomere length (TL) is highly variable and shortens with age. Short telomeres may impede TL-dependent T-cell clonal expansion with viral infection. As SARS-CoV-2 infection can induce prolonged and severe T-cell lymphopenia, infected adults, and particularly older adults with short telomeres, may display severe T-cell lymphopenia. To examine the relationship between T-cell TL parameters and T-cell counts, we studied 40 patients hospitalized with severe COVID-19. T-cells were isolated from lymphocytes, counted using flow cytometry, and their TL parameters were measured using the Telomere Shortest Length Assay. The cohort (median age = 62 years, 27% female) was racially and ethnically diverse (33% White, 35% Black, and 33% Other). On intensive care unit study day 1, T-cell count (mean=1.03 x109/L) was inversely related to age (p=0.007) and higher in females than males (p=0.025). Mean TL was 3.88 kilobases (kb), and 45.3% of telomeres were shorter than 3 kb. Using multiple regression analysis and adjusting for age and sex, T-cell count decreased with increased proportion of T-cell telomeres shorter than 3 kb (p=0.033) and increased with mean TL (p=0.052). Our findings suggest an association between the buildup of short telomeres within T-cells and explain in part reduced peripheral blood T-cell counts in patients with severe COVID-19. Shortened T-cell telomeres may be a risk factor for COVID-19-associated T-cell lymphopenia.
Molecular characterization of hybrid virulence plasmids in ST11-KL64 KPC-2-producing multidrug-resistant hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae from China
Authors: Zhang Fushan , Li Leyuan , Zhao Yuxin , Dong Huiyue , Zhao Buhui , Zhao Xiaoyu , Xia Ziwei , Chi Leizi , Wang Yan , Li Ruichao , Qin Shangshang , Fu Xiangjing
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Carbapenem-resistant hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (CR-HvKP) strains combining virulence and multidrug resistance (MDR) features pose a great public health concern. The aim of this study is to explore the evolutionary characteristics of virulence in CR-HvKP by investigating the genetic features of resistance and virulence hybrid plasmids.

Methods

The resistance and virulence phenotypes were determined by using antimicrobial susceptibility testing and the mouse bacteremia infection model, respectively. Plasmid profiles were investigated by S1 nuclease pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (S1-PFGE) and Southern blotting, conjugation assay, and whole genome sequencing (WGS). Bioinformatics tools were used to uncover the genetic features of the resistance and virulence hybrid plasmids.

Results

Two ST11-KL64 CRKP clinical isolates (KP18-3-8 and KP18-2079), which exhibited enhanced virulence compared with the classic CRKP, were detected positive for blaKPC−2 and rmpA2. The virulence level of the hypermucoviscous strain KP18-3-8 was higher than that of KP18-2079. S1-PFGE, Southern hybridization and WGS analysis identified two novel hybrid virulence plasmids in KP18-3-8 (pKP1838-KPC-vir, 228,158 bp) and KP18-2079 (pKP1838-KPC-vir, 182,326 bp), respectively. The IncHI1B/repB-type plasmid pKP1838-KPC-vir co-harboring blaKPC−2 and virulence genes (rmpA2, iucABCD and iutA) but lacking type IV secretion system could transfer into non-hypervirulent ST11 K. pneumoniae with the assistance of a helper plasmid in conjugation. The IncFII/IncR-type virulence plasmid pKP18-2079-vir may have been generated as a result of recombination between a typical pLVPK-like virulence plasmid and an MDR plasmid.

Conclusion

Our studies further highlight co-evolution of the virulence and resistance plasmids in ST11-CRKP isolates. Close surveillance of such hybrid virulence plasmids in clinical K. pneumoniae should be performed.
Construction of cellulose-degrading microbial consortium and evaluation of their ability to degrade spent mushroom substrate
Authors: Long Junqiao , Wang Xueli , Qiu Shuyi , Zhou Wei , Zhou Shaoqi , Shen Kaiwei , Xie Lili , Ma Xiao , Zhang Xuyi
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Spent mushroom substrate (SMS) is a solid waste in agricultural production that contains abundant lignocellulosic fibers. The indiscriminate disposal of SMS will lead to significant resource waste and pollution of the surrounding environment.The isolation and screening of microorganisms with high cellulase degradation capacity is the key to improving SMS utilization.

Methods

The cellulose-degrading microbial consortiums were constructed through antagonism and enzyme activity test. The effect of microbial consortiums on lignocellulose degradation was systematically evaluated by SMS liquid fermentation experiments.

Results

In this study, four strains of cellulose-degrading bacteria were screened, and F16, F, and F7 were identified as B. amyloliquefaciens, PX1 identified as B. velezensis. At the same time, two groups of cellulose efficient degrading microbial consortiums (PX1 + F7 and F16 + F) were successfully constructed. When SMS was used as the sole carbon source, their carboxymethyl cellulase (CMCase) activities were 225.16 and 156.63 U/mL, respectively, and the filter paper enzyme (FPase) activities were 1.91 and 1.64 U/mL, respectively. PX1 + F7 had the highest degradation rate of hemicellulose and lignin, reaching 52.96% and 52.13%, respectively, and the degradation rate of F16 + F was as high as 56.30%. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis showed that the surface microstructure of SMS changed significantly after microbial consortiums treatment, and the change of absorption peak in Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and the increase of crystallinity in X-ray diffraction (XRD) confirmed that the microbial consortiums had an actual degradation effect on SMS. The results showed that PX1 + F7 and F16 + F could effectively secrete cellulase and degrade cellulose, which had practical significance for the degradation of SMS.

Discussion

In this study, the constructed PX1 + F7 and F16 + F strains can effectively secrete cellulase and degrade cellulose, which holds practical significance in the degradation of SMS. The results can provide technical support for treating high-cellulose solid waste and for the comprehensive utilization of biomass resources.
The diversity of endophytic fungi in Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum) and its correlation with flavonoids and phenotypic traits
Authors: Chen Meiqi , Ding Ziqi , Zhou Min , Shang Yukun , Li Chenglei , Li Qingfeng , Bu Tongliang , Tang Zizhong , Chen Hui
Published: March 2024

Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum) is a significant medicinal crop, with flavonoids serving as a crucial measure of its quality. Presently, the artificial cultivation of Tartary buckwheat yields low results, and the quality varies across different origins. Therefore, it is imperative to identify an effective method to enhance the yield and quality of buckwheat. Endophytic fungi reside within plants and form a mutually beneficial symbiotic relationship, aiding plants in nutrient absorption, promoting host growth, and improving secondary metabolites akin to the host. In this study, high-throughput sequencing technology was employed to assess the diversity of endophytic fungi in Tartary buckwheat. Subsequently, a correlation analysis was performed between fungi and metabolites, revealing potential increases in flavonoid content due to endophytic fungi such as Bipolaris, Hymenula, and Colletotrichum. Additionally, a correlation analysis between fungi and phenotypic traits unveiled the potential influence of endophytic fungi such as Bipolaris, Buckleyzyma, and Trichosporon on the phenotypic traits of Tartary buckwheat. Notably, the endophytic fungi of the Bipolaris genus exhibited the potential to elevate the content of Tartary buckwheat metabolites and enhance crop growth. Consequently, this study successfully identified the resources of endophytic fungi in Tartary buckwheat, explored potential functional endophytic fungi, and laid a scientific foundation for future implementation of biological fertilizers in improving the quality and growth of Tartary buckwheat.
The connectivity degree controls the difficulty in reservoir design of random boolean networks
Authors: Calvet Emmanuel , Reulet Bertrand , Rouat Jean
Published: March 2024

Reservoir Computing (RC) is a paradigm in artificial intelligence where a recurrent neural network (RNN) is used to process temporal data, leveraging the inherent dynamical properties of the reservoir to perform complex computations. In the realm of RC, the excitatory-inhibitory balance b has been shown to be pivotal for driving the dynamics and performance of Echo State Networks (ESN) and, more recently, Random Boolean Network (RBN). However, the relationship between b and other parameters of the network is still poorly understood. This article explores how the interplay of the balance b, the connectivity degree K (i.e., the number of synapses per neuron) and the size of the network (i.e., the number of neurons N) influences the dynamics and performance (memory and prediction) of an RBN reservoir. Our findings reveal that K and b are strongly tied in optimal reservoirs. Reservoirs with high K have two optimal balances, one for globally inhibitory networks (b < 0), and the other one for excitatory networks (b > 0). Both show asymmetric performances about a zero balance. In contrast, for moderate K, the optimal value being K = 4, best reservoirs are obtained when excitation and inhibition almost, but not exactly, balance each other. For almost all K, the influence of the size is such that increasing N leads to better performance, even with very large values of N. Our investigation provides clear directions to generate optimal reservoirs or reservoirs with constraints on size or connectivity.
The effectiveness of transcranial magnetic stimulation for dysphagia in stroke patients: an umbrella review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses
Authors: Georgiou Anastasios M. , Phylactou Phivos , Kambanaros Maria
Published: March 2024

Numerous studies have explored the use of repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) intervention in post-stroke dysphagia. The primary aim of this umbrella review was to appraise the methodological quality of systematic reviews (SRs), with and without meta-analyses (MAs), that synthesized the findings of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) exploring the effectiveness of rTMS in the management of dysphagia post-stroke. A secondary aim of was to evaluate the consistency and reliability of translational implications of rTMS for swallowing recovery after stroke across these SRs and MAs. We searched several databases from inception to the 14th of May 2023, to identify SRs and MAs that examined the effectiveness of rTMS in the management of dysphagia post-stroke. The methodological quality of the included studies was evaluated utilizing the AMSTAR 2 (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews) instrument. To investigate the extent of literature overlap among the primary studies included in the SRs, the Graphical Overview of Evidence (GROOVE) was utilized. Of the 19 SRs that were identified, two studies received low quality ratings, while the rest (17) were rated with critically low quality based on the AMSTAR 2 rating. A high literature overlap across the SRs was observed. In all SRs and MAs reviewed, there was a consistent presence of at least some significant evidence supporting the effectiveness of rTMS in enhancing swallowing outcomes for individuals with dysphagia post-stroke, that is, all MAs reported at least a moderate overall effect in favor of rTMS (SMD range = [0.59, 6.23]). While rTMS shows promise for improving dysphagia post-stroke, the current evidence remains limited and inconclusive due to the methodological flaws observed in the published SRs and their respective MAs on the topic so far. Concerning the limitations of our study, language restrictions and methodological shortcomings may affect the generalizability of our findings.
A scoping review of mathematical models covering Alzheimer's disease progression
Authors: Moravveji Seyedadel , Doyon Nicolas , Mashreghi Javad , Duchesne Simon
Published: March 2024

Alzheimer's disease is a complex, multi-factorial, and multi-parametric neurodegenerative etiology. Mathematical models can help understand such a complex problem by providing a way to explore and conceptualize principles, merging biological knowledge with experimental data into a model amenable to simulation and external validation, all without the need for extensive clinical trials. We performed a scoping review of mathematical models describing the onset and evolution of Alzheimer's disease as a result of biophysical factors following the PRISMA standard. Our search strategy applied to the PubMed database yielded 846 entries. After using our exclusion criteria, only 17 studies remained from which we extracted data, which focused on three aspects of mathematical modeling: how authors addressed continuous time (since even when the measurements are punctual, the biological processes underlying Alzheimer's disease evolve continuously), how models were solved, and how the high dimensionality and non-linearity of models were managed. Most articles modeled Alzheimer's disease at the cellular level, operating on a short time scale (e.g., minutes or hours), i.e., the micro view (12/17); the rest considered regional or brain-level processes with longer timescales (e.g., years or decades) (the macro view). Most papers were concerned primarily with amyloid beta (n = 8), few described both amyloid beta and tau proteins (n = 3), while some considered more than these two factors (n = 6). Models used partial differential equations (n = 3), ordinary differential equations (n = 7), and both partial differential equations and ordinary differential equations (n = 3). Some did not specify their mathematical formalism (n = 4). Sensitivity analyses were performed in only a small number of papers (4/17). Overall, we found that only two studies could be considered valid in terms of parameters and conclusions, and two more were partially valid. This puts the majority (n = 13) as being either invalid or with insufficient information to ascertain their status. This was the main finding of our paper, in that serious shortcomings make their results invalid or non-reproducible. These shortcomings come from insufficient methodological description, poor calibration, or the impossibility of experimentally validating or calibrating the model. Those shortcomings should be addressed by future authors to unlock the usefulness of mathematical models in Alzheimer's disease.
Correlational patterns of neuronal activation and epigenetic marks in the basolateral amygdala and piriform cortex following olfactory threat conditioning and extinction in rats
Authors: Qin Tian , Xia Yue , Nazari Negar , Sepahvand Tayebeh , Yuan Qi
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Cumulative evidence suggests that sensory cortices interact with the basolateral amygdala (BLA) defense circuitry to mediate threat conditioning, memory retrieval, and extinction learning. The olfactory piriform cortex (PC) has been posited as a critical site for olfactory associative memory. Recently, we have shown that N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR)-dependent plasticity in the PC critically underpins olfactory threat extinction. Aging-associated impairment of olfactory threat extinction is related to the hypofunction of NMDARs in the PC.

Methods

In this study, we investigated activation of neuronal cFos and epigenetic marks in the BLA and PC using immunohistochemistry, following olfactory threat conditioning and extinction learning in rats.

Results

We found highly correlated cFos activation between the posterior PC (pPC) and BLA. cFos was correlated with the degree of behavioral freezing in the pPC in both adult and aged rats, and in the BLA only in adult rats. Markers of DNA methylation 5 mC and histone acetylation H3K9/K14ac, H3K27ac, and H4ac exhibited distinct training-, region-, and age-dependent patterns of activation. Strong correlations of epigenetic marks between the BLA and pPC in adult rats were found to be a general feature. Conversely, aged rats only exhibited correlations of H3 acetylations between the two structures. Histone acetylation varied as a function of aging, revealed by a reduction of H3K9/K14ac and an increase of H4ac in aged brains at basal condition and following threat conditioning.

Discussion

These findings underscore the coordinated role of PC and BLA in olfactory associative memory storage and extinction, with implications for understanding aging related cognitive decline.
Development of celiac-safe foods: prevention of transglutaminase 2 (TG2) deamidation of gluten in healthy non-celiac volunteers
Authors: Engström Niklas , Böhn Lena , Josefsson Axel , Störsrud Stine , Scheers Nathalie
Published: March 2024

In celiac disease, intestinal transglutaminase (TG2) produces immunogenic peptides by deamidation of gluten proteins. These products drive the celiac immune response. We have previously identified an interaction between gliadin and a food additive, E304i, which prevents gliadin processing (both deamidation and transamidation) by TG2, in vitro. In this study, we investigated if E304i could prevent TG2 processing of gluten in flours and if the effect was evident after simulated gastrointestinal digestion. We also confirmed the outcome in vivo in a human cross-over intervention study in healthy non-celiac participants. TG2 transamidation experiments (in vitro) of digested wheat and rye flours supplemented with E304i at 30 mg/g indicated full prevention of TG2 processing. In the intervention study, participant serum levels of deamidated gliadin peptides (dGDPs) increased after the intake of reference wheat rolls (80 g per day for a week; 41% ± 4% compared to washout), while the intake of the intervention E304i/zinc sulfate wheat rolls generated a modest response (80 g per day for a week; 8 ± 10% of control). The difference between the groups (32.8 ± 15.6%) was significant (p = 0.00003, n = 9), confirming that E304i /zinc addition to wheat rolls prevented TG2 deamidation of gluten. In conclusion, this study shows that E304i /zinc addition to wheat rolls prevents TG2 deamidation of gluten in non-celiac participants.

Clinical trial registration

clinicaltrials.gov, identifier (NCT06005376).
Testicular metastasis from urothelial carcinoma: case report and literature review
Authors: Liu Changxue , Liu Jing , Yang Qingbo , Song Leilei , Ma Xiaocheng , Wang Yonghua
Published: March 2024

Urothelial carcinoma (UC) with testicular metastasis is extremely rare, and its modes of metastasis, prognosis, and treatment are unclear. In this report, we present an extraordinarily rare case of testicular metastasis arising from UC 8 years after surgery. The patient underwent left orchiepididymectomy and received immunotherapy postoperatively. After a 6-month follow-up, there were no signs of recurrence. Moreover, the clinical characteristics, metastasis pattern, and treatment plan were also summarized based on 14 earlier reported cases of UC with testicular metastasis.
Exploration of the molecular biological mechanisms and review of postoperative radiotherapy cases in tenosynovial giant cell tumors
Authors: Zhang Tianwei , Zeng Bin , Liu Ke , Zeng Qin , Wang Na , Peng Ling , Qiu Hongbo , Chen Xiaomei , Wang Lin
Published: March 2024

Tendon Sheath Giant Cell Tumor (TGCT) is a benign tumor that primarily grows within joints and bursae. However, it has a high postoperative recurrence rate, ranging from 15% to 45%. Although radiotherapy may reduce this recurrence rate, its applicability as a standard treatment is still controversial. Furthermore, the pathogenic mechanisms of TGCT are not clear, which limits the development of effective treatment methods. The unpredictable growth and high recurrence rate of TGCT adds to the challenges of disease management. Currently, our understanding of TGCT mainly depends on pathological slice analysis due to a lack of stable cell models. In this study, we first reviewed the medical records of two female TGCT patients who had undergone radiotherapy. Then, by combining bioinformatics and machine learning, we interpreted the pathogenesis of TGCT and its associations with other diseases from multiple perspectives. Based on a deep analysis of the case data, we provided empirical support for postoperative radiotherapy in TGCT patients. Additionally, our further analysis revealed the signaling pathways of differentially expressed genes in TGCT, as well as its potential associations with osteoarthritis and synovial sarcomas.
A systematic review and narrative synthesis of prevalence rates, risk and protective factors for suicidal behavior in international students
Authors: Veresova Maria , Lamblin Michelle , Robinson Jo , McKay Samuel
Published: March 2024

International students are a crucial group for suicide prevention efforts. However, no comprehensive review of the prevalence, risk or protective factors for international student suicide has been conducted, complicating prevention efforts. The current systematic review addresses this issue by identifying the prevalence, risk, and protective factors for suicidal thoughts and behavior in international students enrolled in tertiary institutions. We searched CINAHL, EMBASE, ERIC, Medline, and PsycInfo from inception to November 2023, and 24 papers met the study inclusion criteria. Nineteen studies reported on the prevalence or intensity of suicidal ideation, six reported on the prevalence of suicide attempts, and seven on the prevalence of self-harm. No studies provided data on completed suicides. Studies indicated that international students experienced similar or lower levels of suicidal ideation and self-harm, but more frequent suicide attempts than domestic students. A narrative synthesis of risk and protective factors yielded mixed results, although social isolation, comorbid mental health conditions, and experiences of racism or discrimination were commonly linked to suicidal thoughts and behaviors. The mixed evidence quality, numerous measurement issues, and low number of studies in the literature point to a need for further research on suicide among international students.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42022307252.
Acute Stress Disorder among 2022 Ukrainian war refugees: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Kordel Piotr , Rządeczka Marcin , Studenna-Skrukwa Marta , Kwiatkowska-Moskalewicz Katarzyna , Goncharenko Olga , Moskalewicz Marcin
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Fleeing from war can be terrifying and result in Acute Stress Disorder (ASD), a mental health condition that can occur in the first month after a traumatic event. The study aimed to identify the prevalence of ASD among Ukrainian refugees and identify its risk factors to create a profile of the most vulnerable refugees.

Methods

This cross-sectional study of 637 Ukrainian war-displaced persons and refugees in 2022 used the Acute Stress Disorder Scale.

Results

The prevalence of ASD among participants was high (93.5%). Several factors increasing the risk of developing ASD in the sample were identified, e.g., witnessing Russian attacks (OR 2.92, 95% CI 1.26–6.78), insufficient financial resources (OR 3.56, 95% CI 1.61–7.91), and feeling of loneliness in the host country (OR 3.07, 95% CI 1.58–8.69). Pre-existing depression and the death of a close person, among others, were found to significantly (p < 0.05) exacerbate the ASD symptoms. At the same time, neither age, the distance traveled, time spent on fleeing the country, nor the type of companionship during refuge (escaping alone, with children, pets or the older adults) correlate with the severity of symptoms.

Conclusion

The study shows extreme levels of trauma among Ukrainian war refugees and displaced persons. Knowledge regarding ASD vulnerabilities in the present conflict may facilitate prompt and adequate psychological help. Since ASD can be an antecedent of PTSD and several autoimmune disorders, these results may also serve as a predictor of future challenges for Ukrainian society.
Appraisal of universal health insurance and maternal health services utilization: pre- and post-context of the Jaminan Kesehatan Nasional implementation in Indonesia
Authors: Rahmawati Tati , Hsieh Hui-Min
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The Indonesian government introduced universal health insurance through the National Social Security System (JKN) in 2014 to enhance overall healthcare. This study compares maternal health care (MHC) service utilization before and after JKN implementation in Indonesia.

Method

Using 2012 and 2017 data from Indonesia Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS), we conducted a two-period cross-sectional design study following the Anderson model. We assessed how the JKN policy and population characteristics influenced healthcare utilization for women aged 15–49 who had given birth in the last 5 years. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the impact of the JKN policy and related factors.

Result

In two waves of Indonesia DHS with 14,782 and 15,021 subjects, this study observed a significant increase in maternal healthcare service utilization post-JKN implementation. Women were more likely to have at least four antenatal care visits (adjusted odds ratio, AOR = 1.17), receive skilled antenatal care (AOR = 1.49), obtain skilled birth assistance (AOR = 1.96), and access facility-based delivery (AOR = 2.45) compared with pre-JKN implementation.

Conclusion

This study revealed a significant positive impact of JKN on enhancing MHS utilization. The introduction of universal health insurance coverage likely reduced financial barriers for specific demographics, resulting in increased service utilization. Our study may offer valuable insights for Asian countries with similar demographics and health insurance implementations.
COVID-19 vaccination and the risk of autoimmune diseases: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Shan Jiayi , Hu Xiaoyun , Chen Tianzhu , Wang Yuyang , Huang Baoyi , Xin Yijun , Xu Hua
Published: March 2024

Background

In recent times, reports have emerged suggesting that a variety of autoimmune disorders may arise after the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) vaccination. However, causality and underlying mechanisms remain unclear.

Methods

We collected summary statistics of COVID-19 vaccination and 31 autoimmune diseases from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) as exposure and outcome, respectively. Random-effects inverse variance weighting (IVW), MR Egger, weighted median, simple mode, and weighted mode were used as analytical methods through Mendelian randomization (MR), and heterogeneity and sensitivity analysis were performed.

Results

We selected 72 instrumental variables for exposure (p < 5 × 10−6; r2 < 0.001, genetic distance = 10,000 kb), and MR analyses showed that COVID-19 vaccination was causally associated with an increased risk of multiple sclerosis (MS) (IVW, OR: 1.53, 95% CI: 1.065–2.197, p = 0.026) and ulcerative colitis (UC) (IVW, OR: 1.00, 95% CI: 1.000–1.003, p = 0.039). If exposure was refined (p < 5 × 10−8; r2 < 0.001, genetic distance = 10,000 kb), the associations became negative. No causality was found for the remaining outcomes. These results were robust to sensitivity and heterogeneity analyses.

Conclusion

Our study provided potential evidence for the impact of COVID-19 vaccination on the risk of MS and UC occurrence, but it lacks sufficient robustness, which could provide a new idea for public health policy.
Time-series analysis of the association between air pollution exposure and outpatient visits for dry eye disease: a case study in Zhengzhou, China
Authors: Xia Mengting , Yang Yingrui , Sun Jiali , Huang Ranran , Huang Yonghui , Zhang Mengqi , Yao Xi
Published: March 2024

Background

Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent ocular surface disease that significantly impacts patients’ quality of life. The association between air pollution and the risk of dry eye disease remains uncertain.

Methods

Data on outdoor air pollutants, meteorological information, and outpatient visits for DED were collected from July 1, 2014, to December 31, 2019. The relationship between ambient air pollutants and DED outpatient visits was analyzed using a generalized additive model with a Poisson distribution.

Results

Among the 5,204 DED patients included in the study, 63.76% were female and 36.24% were male. The single-pollutant model revealed a significant association between a 10 μg/m3 increase in concentrations of fine-particulate matter with a median aerometric diameter of less than 10 μm (PM10), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO) and outpatient visits for DED. Fine-particulate matter with a median aerometric diameter of less than 2.5 μm (PM2.5) showed a significant association with DED outpatient visits in males and the 19–59 years age group. The strongest associations between air pollutants and outpatient visits were observed in male patients and during the cold season.

Conclusion

The noteworthy correlation between air pollutants and DED outpatient visits can offer evidence for policy makers and underscore the significance of reinforcing environmental protection.