bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
p53 Biology and Reactivation for Improved Therapy in MDS and AML–Are We Building Castles in the Air?
Authors: Zawacka Joanna
Published: September 2023

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) and acute myeloid leukemia (AML) originate from preleukemic hematopoietic conditions, such as clonal hematopoiesis of indeterminate potential (CHIP) or clonal cytopenia of undetermined significance (CCUS) and have desolate outcomes. The prognosis is worse in patients with TP53 mutations which are often linked to complex karyotypes and contribute to worse responses to induction therapy, demethylating agents or venetoclax-based treatments. Survival of patients with TP53 gene mutations is often less than one year. Therefore, TP53-mutated MDS and AML are now classified separately in the unfavorable risk category. In the clinical setting, the wild-type p53 is reactivated pharmacologically by targeting p53/MDM2/MDM4 interactions and mutant p53 reactivation is achieved by refolding the DNA binding domain to wild-type-like conformation or via targeted degradation of the mutated protein. This review discusses our current understanding of p53 biology in MDS and AML and the promises and failures of p53 reactivation in the clinical trial setting.
Modeling Adverse Events Counts in the Bulgarian Pharmacovigilance Database
Authors: Antonov Lyudmil , Kirilov Bogdan , Dokova Klara
Published: September 2023

We tested the possibility of using “adverse events count” (AEC) as a drug-risk indicator and side-effect severity indicator. Data from 3938 adverse event (AE) reports for COVID-19 vaccines (Comirnaty, Moderna, Vaxzevria, and Janssen) and 6869 AE reports for other medicines were collected from the Bulgarian Drug Agency database (01.01.2018–31.03.2022). AEC was modeled with zero-adjusted negative binomial (ZANBI) and zero-adjusted Poisson inverse Gaussian (ZAPIG) regression models, which account for zero absence and overdispersion. The models’ fit was checked with residual diagnostic plots and parametric correspondence to normality. Explanatory variables were: age, sex, sequence number (order of submission), severity of AE, and vaccine type. Average AEC was higher in severe vs. non-severe AE, and in females vs. males; it decreased with age and was lower in Comirnaty than other vaccines. Variability of AEC for COVID-19 data decreased with sequence number in severe AE and increased in non-severe AE. Full ZANBI models had greater sensitivity than parametric ZANBI or ZAPIG models. Results showed correlation between AEC and AE severity, suggesting AEC as a simple and reliable measure of drug-risk and side-effect severity for clinicians and regulators, especially for COVID-19 vaccines.
Multi-granulation double fuzzy rough sets
Authors: Abdallah A. A. , Sayed O R. , Sanousy E.El , Sayed Y.H. Ragheb , Abu$\_$shugair M.N. , Salahuddin Salahuddin
Published: September 2023

Based on the definition of double fuzzy relations, two types of new rough set models are constructed, which are multi-granulation double fuzzy rough sets called optimistic and pessimistic multi-granulation double fuzzy rough sets, and some of their properties were studied. In addition, we study the relationship between optimistic and pessimistic multi-granulation double fuzzy rough sets and double fuzzy rough sets.
Comparative Analysis of Phospholipase D (PLD) Gene Family in Camelina sativa and Brassica napus and Its Responses in Camelina Seedlings under Salt Stress
Authors: Heidari Parviz , Puresmaeli Fatemeh , Vafaee Yavar , Ahmadizadeh Mostafa , Ensani Mohammadreza , Ahmadinia Haniyeh
Published: September 2023

Phospholipases are among the important elements involved in lipid-dependent cell signaling that lead to the induction of downstream pathways. In the current study, phospholipases D (PLDs) gene family was characterized and compared in two important oilseeds crops, Brassica napus and Camelina sativa. The results revealed that PLD has 33 members in Camelina sativa (CsPLD) and 41 members in Brassica napus (BnPLD). All studied PLDs showed a negative GRAVY value, indicating that PLDs are probably hydrophilic proteins. Phylogenetic analysis separated PLDs into five subfamilies; gamma, delta, beta, alpha, and zeta. According to evolution analysis, a different evolution process was observed between CsPLD and BnPLD. In addition, the results disclosed that the most of the PLD genes have been segmentally duplicated under purifying selection. Cis-regulatory elements related to ABA and auxin responsiveness were more found in upstream region of CsPLDs, while elements linked with MeJA responsiveness were more dis-tributed in promoter region of BnPLDs. Analysis of the expression data showed that PLD alpha genes have a wide expression and are expressed in most tissues. Quantitative expression analysis (qPCR) of CsPLD genes under salt stress, 200 mM of NaCl, was done in different time series. The results revealed that the CsPLD genes are involved in the response to salinity stress and their expression levels enhance with the increase of salinity stress time. The outcomes of this research will be useful for future molecular work related to lipid signaling in oilseed plants.
Pattern of Presentation and Risk Factor Prediction of Acute Myocardial Infarction in Kosovo
Authors: Poniku Afrim , Batalli Arlind , Shita Dua , Rexhaj Zarife , Ferati Arlind , Leka Rita , Bajraktari Artan , Abdyli Genc , Haliti Edmond , Ibrahimi Pranvera , Elezi Shpend , Shatri Faik , Bytyçi Ibadete , Henein Michael , Bajraktari Gani
Published: September 2023

Background: Myocardial infarction (MI) is a major cause of mortality worldwide. Its presentation as ST-segment elevation MI (STEMI) and non-ST-segment elevation MI (NSTEMI) is influence by atherosclerosis risk factors.
Aim: To assess the patterns of presentation and predicting risk factors of acute MI in Kosovo.
Methods: This is a cross sectional study from the Clinic of Cardiology of the University Clinical Center of Kosovo, which included all patients hospitalized with acute MI over a period of 7 years (January 1st, 2014 to December 31st, 2020). Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and epidemiological patterns and risk factors were analyzed.
Results: Among 7353 patients admitted with acute MI (age 63 ± 12 years, 29% female), 4366 (59.4%) patients had STEMI, and 2987 (40.6%) NSTEMI. Patients age was not different between the two groups (p=0.077). NSTEMI patients smoked less (48.3% vs. 54%, p<0.001), but were more diabetics (37.8% vs. 33.6%, p<0.001), more hypertensives (69.6% vs. 63%, p<0.001), frequently had family history for coronary artery disease (CAD) (40% vs 38%, p=0.009), and included more females compared to STEMI patients (32% vs 27%, p<0.001). The two groups of patients, did not differ in the prevalence of significant CAD on angiography (66.8% vs. 67.8%, p = 0.396), but NSTEMI patients underwent less primary percutaneous interventions compared with STEMI patients (43.6% vs. 55.2%, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: In Kosovo, STEMI is commoner than NSTEMI, who were mostly males, more likely to have diabetes, hypertension and family history for CAD compared to those with NSTEMI. Smoking and arterial hypertension proved the strongest predictors of acute MI, in Kosovo, thus highlighting the urgent need for better atherosclerosis risk control and education strategy.
Towards a Theory of Art- and Media-Based Communication of Knowledge
Authors: Hu John C. H.
Published: September 2023

This paper applies conceptualization from Paulo Freire, Tracey Nicholls, and bell hooks to develop a framework to understand art- and media-based communication of knowledge. Increasing use of art and digital media in research and formal educational settings emphasize knowledge-communication intent, and the theory attempts to rationalize why individuals potentially devalue, discard, or misconstrue messaging. Drawing upon two case studies: children’s literature, and existing scholarship on true crime as a media genre, the framework proposes art and media consumption based on perceived task-applicability of art and media. Stemming from the complex nature of socially-imposed, self-determined, and art- & media-instated tasks that an individual may face throughout their lifetime, an individual may be drawn to Freirean power and privilege - even fictional depictions - as societal structures can grant power and privilege with universal task-applicability. Potential usage of this framework towards participatory, qualitative inquiries conclude the paper, in attempt to support future art and media designed with knowledge-communication intent.
Vibration Response of Soil under Low-Frequency Vibration Using Discrete Element Method
Authors: Wan Lipengcheng , Li Yonglei , Song Jinyu , Ma Xiang , Dong Xiangqian , Zhang Chao , Song Jiannong
Published: September 2023

The vibration response of soil is a key property in the field of agricultural soil tillage. Vibration components of tillage machinery are generally used to reduce tillage resistance and improve work efficiency, the pressure variation under low-frequency vibration will affect the fragmentation and dispersion of farmland soil. However, the gradient of pressure variation, frequency domain response, and effective transmission range are unclear. A new method based on DEM (Discrete Element Method) is presented to study the vibration response and pressure transmission under low-frequency vibration. Bench test results showed that peak pressure positively correlates with the vibration frequency and attenuates rapidly at the vibration distance of 100 to 250 mm. The results data were also selected to determine the simulation model parameters. Amplitude, vibration frequency, and soil depth were used as test factors in single-factor simulation tests, and their effects on the peak pressure, frequency domain response, and effective transmission distance were analyzed. The results showed a positive relationship between the peak pressure and the test factors. The peak pressure increases with a maximum gradient of 19.02 kPa/mm at a vibration distance of 50 mm. The amplitude, vibration frequency, and soil depth positively correlate with the dominant frequency amplitude. The main frequency is independent of amplitude and soil depth. At the vibration distance of 250 mm, the dominant frequency is approximately twice the vibration frequency at 7–11 Hz and approximately equal to the vibration frequency at 13–15 Hz. Multiple exponential functions were used to fit the peak pressure attenuation function, obtaining an effective transmission distance range of 347.15 to 550.37 mm for the 5kPa cut-off pressure. For a soil depth of 300 mm, the vertical shear wave diffusion angle is greater than the horizontal shear wave diffusion angle. The study clarifies the vibration response of soil under low-frequency vibration, which helps to design vibration type soil-engaging components of tillage machinery and match vibration parameters for energy saving and resistance reduction in soil tillage.
Progression of Diabetic Kidney Disease and Gastrointestinal Symptoms in Patients with Type I Diabetes
Authors: Fedulovs Aleksejs , Tzivian Lilian , Zalizko Polina , Ivanova Santa , Bumane Renate , Janeviča Jana , Krūzmane Lelde , Krustins Eduards , Sokolovska Jelizaveta
Published: September 2023

(1) Background: Little research is done on the link of diabetic kidney disease (DKD) progression and diabetic gastroenteropathy in type 1 diabetes (T1D). (2) Methods. We performed a cross-sectional study with 100 T1D patients, 27 of them had progressive DKD, defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) decline≥3 ml/min/year or increased albuminuria stage over the mean follow-up time of 5.89±1.73 years. Newly developed score with 17 questions on gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms was used. Faecal calprotectin was measured by ELISA. Lower GI endoscopies were performed in 21 patients. (3) Results: Gastrointestinal symptom score demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach's α=0.78). Patients with progressive DKD had higher GI symptom scores compared to those with stable DKD (p=0.019). The former group demonstrated more frequent bowel movement disorders (p=0.04). The scores correlated negatively with eGFR (r = -0.335; p = 0.001), positively with albuminuria (r=0.245; p=0.015), Hba1c (r=0.305, p=0.002), diabetes duration (r=0.251, p=0.012). Faecal calprotectin levels did not differ between DKD groups significantly. The most commonly reported histopathological findings of enteric mucosa were infiltration with eosinophils, lymphocytes, plasmacytes, presence of lymphoid follicles and lymphoid aggregates. Conclusion: progression of DKD positively correlated with gastrointestinal symptoms, but more research is needed to clarify the causal relationships of the gut-kidney axis in T1D.
Influence of Preparation Methods and Nanomaterials on Hydrophobicity and Anti-Icing Performance of Nanoparticle/Epoxy Coatings
Authors: Liu Shinan , Wang Houzhi , Liu Yixuan , Yu Yunhong , Li Yuxiang , Yang Jun , Huang Lefei
Published: September 2023

Despite their anti-icing ability, hydrophobic coatings have the disadvantages of easy falling off and poor wear resistance, resulting in insufficient durability of ice/snow melting. To improve the surface stability and durability of superhydrophobic coatings, nanoparticle/epoxy coatings were prepared with three types of nanoparticles, two types of dispersion methods, three types of application methods and two types of introduction methods of epoxy resin. Water contact angles, ice adhesion force and icing rate of asphalt concrete coated with hydrophobic coatings were tested. The molecular structures of coatings were analyzed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The surface morphology of hydrophobic coatings was observed using Scanning electron microscopy. Results indicated that nano-ZnO, TiO2 and SiO2 particles can be modified into hydrophobicity by stearic acid. The hydrophobic coating could improve the hydrophobicity of concrete, reduce the adhesion strength of ice and asphalt concrete and delay the beginning icing time. Moreover, The dosages of stearic acid, nanoparticle and epoxy resin need to be in a certain range to ensure the best hydrophobicity and durability of coatings.
Vitamin D Levels as a Marker of Severe SARS-Cov-2 Infection
Authors: Athanassiou Lambros , Kostoglou-Athanassiou Ifigenia , Nikolakopoulou Sofia , Konstantinou Alexandra , Mascha Olga , Siarkos Evangelos , Samaras Charilaos , Athanassiou Panagiotis , Shoenfeld Yehuda
Published: September 2023

Severe infection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus is associated with various clinical findings, including hematological manifestations. Thrombotic events or a tendency to develop thrombotic events also characterize severe COVID-19 disease and may lead to death. Vitamin D is known to have immunomodulating properties and to enhance the body defense system against invading pathogens and to have immunostimulatory properties as far as the innate immune response is concerned. The aim was to measure 25(OH)D3 levels in patients hospitalized for severe COVID-19 infection, to explore the relationship between 25(OH)D3 and outcome and to investigate the relationship between 25(OH)D3 levels, CRP, ferritin, d-dimers and fibrinogen levels in this cohort. In a cohort of 88 patients hospitalized for severe infection from the SARS-CoV-2 virus and a control group matched for age and sex the levels of 25(OH)D3 were measured. In the same cohort CRP, ferritin, d-dimer and fibrinogen levels were also analyzed. Levels of 25(OH)D3 were 17.36±8.80 ng/ml (mean±SD) as compared with 24.34±10.34 ng/ml, in patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and the control group, respectively, p<0.001 (Student’s t test). The levels of 25(OH)D3 were found to be significantly related to outcome, i.e. survival as opposed to non-survival, as more patients with 25(OH)D3 deficiency (0-10 ng/ml) and insufficiency (10-20 ng/ml) had a fatal outcome as compared with those with vitamin D sufficiency, p<0.001, chi-square test, p<0.001, Fischer’s exact test. Levels of 25(OH)D3 were inversely related to CRP, ferritin, d-dimer and fibrinogen levels, p<0.001, linear regression analysis, beta coefficient of variation, -0.176, -0,160, -0.178, -0.158, respectively. Vitamin D deficiency observed in severe SARS-CoV-2 infection was related to the disease outcome. Increased ferritin levels, and increased thrombotic markers, namely d-dimer and fibrinogen levels were observed in the patients and their concentration was also inversely related to vitamin D. We showed that vitamin D levels were low in hospitalized patients with severe SARS-CoV-2 infection and also inversely related to CRP, ferritin, d-dimer and fibrinogen concentration. It is proposed that vitamin D levels may be an index of severity in the context of SARS-CoV-2 infection.
‘Greening’ an Oil Exporting Country: a Hydrogen, Wind and Gas Turbine Case Study
Authors: Rawesat Abdulwahab , Pilidis Pericles
Published: September 2023

ABSTRACT

In the quest for decarbonisation, it's essential for different sectors of the economy to collaborate and invest significantly. This study presents an innovative approach that merges technological insight with philosophical considerations at a national scale, with the intention of shaping national policy and practice. The aim of this research is to assist in formulating decarbonisation strategies for intricate economies. Libya, a major oil exporter aiming to diversify its energy revenue sources, is used as the case study, although the principles can be applied to create decarbonisation strategies across the globe.

The decarbonisation framework evaluated in this study encompasses wind based renewable electricity, hydrogen, and gas turbine combined cycles. A comprehensive set of both official and unofficial national data was assembled, integrated and analysed to conduct this study. The developed analytical model considers a variety of factors including consumption in different sectors, geographical data, weather patterns, wind potential, and consumption trends, amongst others. Even when gaps and inconsistencies were encountered, reasonable assumptions and projections were used to fill these. This model is seen as a valuable foundation for developing replacement scenarios that can realistically guide production and user engagement towards decarbonisation. The aim of this model is to maintain the advantages of the current energy consumption, assuming a 2% growth rate, and to assess changes in energy consumption in a fully green economy. While some level of speculation is present in the results, important qualitative and quantitative insights emerge, with the key takeaway being the use of hydrogen and the anticipated considerable increase in electricity demand. Two scenarios were evaluated: achieving energy self-sufficiency and replacing current oil exports with hydrogen exports on an energy content basis.

This study offers, for the first time, a quantitative perspective on the wind-based infrastructure needs resulting from the evaluation of the two scenarios. In the first scenario, energy requirements were based on replacing fossil fuels with renewable sources. In contrast, the second scenario included maintaining energy exports at levels like the past, substituting oil with hydrogen. The findings clearly demonstrate that this transition will demand vast changes and substantial investments. The primary requirements identified are 14876 or 24532 square kilometres (for self-sufficiency and exports), and 47 single-shaft 600 MW combined-cycle gas turbines. This foundational analysis could represent the commencement of the research, investment, and political agenda on the journey to decarbonisation.
Features of Electron-Beam Processing of Mn-Zn Ferrites in the Forevacuum Pressure Range in Continuous and Pulse Modes
Authors: Klimov Aleksandr , Bakeev Ilya , Dolgova Anna , Kazakov Andrey , Korablev Nikita , Zenin Aleksey
Published: September 2023

The results of electron-beam processing of Mn-Zn ferrite samples using pulsed and continuous electron beams in the forevacuum pressure range (10 Pa) are presented. We find that continuous electron-beam processing leads to surface structuring of the ferrite, changes in elemental composition on the surface, and electrical property modification. The degree of ferrite parameter changes exhibits a threshold behavior. For surface processing temperatures below 900 °C, changes are barely noticeable, while for temperatures over 1100 °C the surface resistance decreases by more than an order of magnitude. Electron-beam processing with millisecond pulse duration and pulse energy density exceeding 15 J/cm² results in the formation of low zinc content melt islands, while the remaining surface area (outside the islands) elemental content and ferrite properties remain largely unchanged. The thickness of the modified layer depends on the processing mode and can be controlled over the range 0.1–0.5 mm. Because of its low resistance, the modified layer can be utilized to enhance the RF-absorbing properties of the ferrite.
An Outbreak of Vancomycin-Resistant Enterococci in a City Hospital Intensive Care Unit: Molecular Characterization of Resistance
Authors: Şenol Feray Ferda , Tanrıverdi Elif Seren , Aşçı Toraman Zulal , Otlu Barış
Published: September 2023

Vancomisin resistant enterococcus(VRE), is a resistant microorganism which colonizates and causes infections in hospitalized patients. It was aimed to show the spread of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (fVREfm) step-by-step in all intensive care units, which started with the growth of vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VREfm) on 02.12.2021 in the blood culture of a patient hospitalized in the anesthesia intensive care unit of our hospital and was found to have reached epidemic size in the surveys.
Rectal swab samples were taken from all patients hospitalized in intensive care units, VRE colonization was determined and the VanA and VanB resistance genes associated with vancomycin resistance of VREfm isolates were determined by PCR method, and clonal association analysis was performed by Arbitrarily Primed-PCR (AP-PCR) and Pulsed-Field Gel Electrophoresis. In our study, VRE was detected in 61 of 2601 rectal swab samples. 54 (85.52%) of the VRE isolates were Enterococcus faecium, 3 (4.91%) was Enterococcus faecalis, 3 (4.91%) was Enterococcus gallinorum, 1 (1.63%) was Enterococcus casseliflavus. It was determined that all of the 54 VREfm isolates, which were the most detected among all VRE isolates, carried the vanA gene. In the clonal association analysis of the isolates by AP-PCR and PFGE methods, it was found that they had 12 different genotypes, 48 of them were included in any cluster, the clustering rate was 88.8%, and the largest cluster was genotype 1 cluster with 36 isolates. Of the 54 patients with VREfm isolated recently, 18.51 percent of the clinical samples were isolated before the survey, and 9.24% were isolated after the survey. It was determined that 100% of VREfm isolates were resistant to ampicillin, levofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, high-level gentamicin, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, teicoplanin, 7.4% to tigecycline and 1.85% to linezolid. In our study, in the clonal association analysis performed by isolating VREfm in rectal swab samples, it was found that 88.8% of the samples were indistinguishably similar and the increase in the number of VREfm infections after the index case in our hospital was associated with the epidemic.
VREfm infections cause long term hospitalization, costs and also deaths, which shows the seriousness of the event, and the importance of the combination of epidemiological and molecular analysis in epidemic research.
Fetuin-A Modulates Tumor Growth and Invasion in a Basal-Like Triple Negative Breast Cancer Cell Line, MDA-MB-468
Authors: Kenchappa Divya , Korolkova Olga Y , Odiase Peace , Izban Michael G. , Sakwe Amos , Ochieng Josiah
Published: September 2023

The present studies were undertaken to address the role of fetuin-A in the growth and invasion potential in a triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) cell line, MDA-MB-468. Basal like TNBC that express high levels of ectopic fetuin-A have poorer prognosis for the patients compared to those that express low levels of the protein. We overexpressed fetuin-A in MDA-MB-468 and then determined the invasive potential of fetuin-A overexpressing cells vs controls transfected with empty vector. We also determined the adhesion and growth potential of the cells in the presence of only fetuin-A in serum free medium and also in complete medium. Our data suggest that fetuin-A overexpression significantly enhances the invasive potential of the cells and also the expression of Toll like receptor 4 (TLR4) on these cells. More importantly, the cells rely on fetuin-A-TLR4 signaling network for growth and invasion because the specific TLR4 inhibitor CLI-095 (resatorvid) abrogates fetuin-A mediated growth and invasion. Taken together, the data suggest that fetuin-A-TLR4 signaling network plays a significant role in the growth and invasion potential of TNBC.
Remote Sensing of Snow Parameters: Comparison of Retrieval Performance Based on Hyperspectral versus Multispectral Data
Authors: Pachniak Elliot , Li Wei , Tanikawa Tomonori , Gatebe Charles , Stamnes Knut
Published: September 2023

Snow parameters have traditionally been retrieved using discontinuous, multi-band sensors; however, continuous hyperspectral sensor are now being developed as an alternative. In this paper we investigate the performance of various sensor configurations using machine learning neural networks trained on a simulated dataset. Our results show improvements in accuracy of retrievals of snow grain size and impurity concentration for continuous hyperspectral channel configurations. Retrieval accuracy of snow albedo was found to be similar for all channel configurations.
Mucin Glycans: A Target for Cancer Therapy
Authors: Sun Lingbo , Zhang Yuhan , Li Wenyan , Zhang Jing , Zhang Yuecheng
Published: September 2023

Mucin glycans are important component of the mucus barrier and vital defence against physical and chemical damage as well as pathogens. Abnormal expression of mucin glycans can lead to disease, especially cancer. Here, we first summarize the main types of glycosylation on mucins and the mechanisms by which abnormal mucin glycans occur. We next describe the role of ab-normal mucin glycans in cancer. Finally, we describe MUC1-based antibodies, vaccines, radio-pharmaceuticals, and CAR-T therapies using the best characterized MUC1 as an example.
Treatment of a Ballistic Radius Fracture with Segmental Bone Loss Using the Masquelet Technique in a Child
Authors: Kazemzadeh Sina , Hoffman Alexander P. , Pumphrey Conor M. , Yee Michael A.
Published: September 2023

Case:

A 4-year-old boy sustained an accidental self-inflicted gunshot wound to the left forearm. Radiographs revealed a comminuted mid-diaphyseal ballistic radius fracture with a critical-sized bone defect. The fracture was treated with the placement of a flexible intramedullary nail and antibiotic cement spacer, followed by second-stage bone grafting and open reduction and internal fixation of the radius 6 weeks later. Four months after the second-stage procedure, the radial defect healed appropriately without complications.

Conclusion:

In this case of a pediatric comminuted mid-diaphyseal radius fracture with bone loss, the induced membrane technique resulted in healing across a critical-sized bone defect.
Breaking Through the Glass Ceiling: A Look at Gender and Race in the Higher Education Hierarchy
Authors: Xiao Yunyu , Pinkney Edward , Li Tianzi , Yip Paul S.F.
Published: September 2023

Objectivesand Design: A retrospective study examining progress towards diversity at the intersection of gender and ethnicity amongst senior higher education academics and managers in England and Wales. The study aimed to assess any evidence of competing diversity agendas and the impact of diversity initiatives on female racial minorities.
Data Sources: Employment records of senior higher education staff were used to assess trends in race and gender. Data on the receipt of Athena SWAN or Race Equality Charter awards by higher education institutions were also collected.
Study Selection: The study included higher education institutions in England and Wales, analysing employment records of senior academics and managers for the academic years 2012/2013 to 2018/2019.
Data Extraction and Preparation: Employment records were used to extract information on the race and gender of senior staff. Mixed-effects modelling was employed to analyse the relationship between receiving diversity awards (Athena SWAN Silver or Race Equality Charter Bronze) and female racial differences.
Results: Ethnic minority females experienced increasing representation in senior staff positions over the study period. However, disparities were observed, with Black females showing fewer signs of advancement. Institutions that received Athena SWAN Silver or Race Equality Charter Bronze awards demonstrated increasing gender and racial diversity, with no evidence of competing diversity effects.
Conclusion: The study found evidence of progress in advancing gender and ethnic diversity in senior academic and leadership positions in higher education in England and Wales. Despite this, certain racial groups, such as Black females, faced greater challenges in advancement. The positive impact of diversity initiatives was observed, with no evidence of conflicting diversity agendas. Further research is recommended to investigate structural factors affecting ethnic minorities in higher education, as well as potential effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the diversity agenda.
A Mechanical-assisted Post-bioprinting Strategy for Challenging Bone Defects Repair
Authors: Ruan Changshun , Yang Jirong , Chen Zhigang , Gao Chongjian , Liu Juan , Liu Kaizheng , Wang Xiao , Pan Xiaoling , Wang Guocheng , Sang Hongxun , Pan Haobo , Liu Wenguang
Published: September 2023

Bioprinting that can synchronously deposit cells and biomaterials has lent fresh impetus to the field of tissue regeneration. However, the unavoidable occurrence of cell damage during fabrication process and intrinsically poor mechanical stability of bioprinted cell-laden scaffolds severely restrict their utilization. As such, on basis of heart-inspired hollow hydrogel-based scaffolds (HHSs), a mechanical-assisted post-bioprinting strategy is proposed to load cells into HHSs in a rapid, uniform, precise and friendly manner. HHSs showed mechanical responsiveness to load cells within 4 s, a 13-fold increase in cell number, and partitioned loading of two types of cells compared with those under static conditions. As a proof of concept, HHSs with the loading cells showed an enhanced regenerative capability in repair of the critical-sized segmental and aging-related osteoporotic bone defects in vivo. We expect that this post-bioprinting strategy can provide a universal, efficient, and promising way to promote cell-based regenerative therapy.
Initial evaluation of LncRNA A2M-AS1 gene expression in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Mohammadi Shaghayegh , Azadeh Mansoureh , Saeghyian Tahereh , rezaei Mohammad
Published: September 2023

Introduction: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the three leading neurodegenerative diseases worldwide. Genes expression profiles studies play important role in recognition and prevention of disease. Considering the inherent ability of biomarkers to diagnose and prognosis the occurrence of a disease, with the aim of gene therapy and changing gene expression, it can be helped to treat it. In this study, by examining the gene interaction and expression of non-coding gene in patients with multiple sclerosis, using bioinformatics analyzes and laboratory research, to find the gene expression pattern and the interaction of potential biomarkers of this disease for It was tried to find suitable treatment targets.
Materials and methods: First, by using microarray data analysis of GEO database, the expression status of Lnc RNA A2M-AS1 gene was investigated in patients with MS. Then lncRNA-mRNA interaction analysis was performed in the lncRRisearch and ENCORI database. After sample collection, the total RNA extracted using the RNA extraction kit from 20 patient samples and 20 healthy samples was synthesized into cDNA with the synthesis kit. In the following, two pairs of forward and reverse primers were designed for A2M-AS1 gene, and finally, the expression level was measured by Real Time-PCR technique.
Result: Based on bioinformatic and laboratory analysis, the expression of A2M-AS1 gene in MS samples showed a significant decrease in expression compared to healthy samples. Also, based on the ROC analysis, lncRNA A2M-AS1 can be introduced as an acceptable diagnostic biomarker to distinguish MS samples from healthy samples.
Conclusion: lncRNA A2M-AS1 by reducing its expression as an acceptable diagnostic biomarker can increases the risk of developing MS.
The mediating effect of psychological resilience between social support and anxiety/depression in people living with HIV/AIDS--a study from China
Authors: Sun Yongbing , JIANG Tianjun , Zhen Cheng , Song Bing
Published: September 2023

ObjectiveTo understand the relationship between psychological resilience in social support and anxiety/depression in people living with HIV/AIDS and to verify whether there is a mediating effect.MethodsA questionnaire was administered to 161 people living with HIV/AIDS in a hospital. The questionnaire contained a self-administered questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Psychological Resilience Inventory (CD-RICS), and the Social Collaborative Support Scale (PSSS), and Pearson correlation analyses were used to explore the correlation between the factors and anxiety/depression, stratified linear regression analyses were used to validate the mediation model, and the bootstrap method was used to test for mediating effects.ResultsAnxiety was negatively correlated with psychological resilience and social support (r=-0.232, P<0.01; r=-0.293, P<0.01); depression was negatively correlated with psychological resilience and social support (r=-0.382, P<0.01; r=-0.482, P<0.01); there was a mediation effect model of social support between psychological resilience and anxiety/depression; psychological resilience played a fully mediating role in social support and anxiety/depression, with an effect contribution of 68.42%/59.34% and a 95% CI(-0.256~-0.036)/(-0.341 to~-0.106).ConclusionIt is recommended that more channels of social support be provided to patients with HIV/AIDS, thereby enhancing their psychological resilience and reducing anxiety/depression levels.
Uric acid and evaluate the coronary vascular stenosis Gensini score correlation research and in gender differences
Authors: Yang Bao , Ma Kanghua , Xiang Rui , Yang Guoli , Luo Yue , Wu Fan , Mao Min
Published: September 2023

Background and aims: Recent studies have shown that the negative effects of uric acid (UA) on coronary arteries determine the severity of atherosclerotic disease and may serve as a non-invasive biomarker for assessing the degree of coronary artery stenosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum uric acid levels and the Gensini score, which reflects the severity of coronary artery disease.
Methods:860 individuals with suspected coronary heart disease, who had undergone coronary angiography, were selected as the participants for this study. Based on the findings of the angiography, they were categorized into two groups: the coronary heart disease (CHD) group (n=625) and the control group (n=235). The uric acid levels and other clinical data were compared between these groups. Additionally, the prevalence of coronary heart disease and Gensini score were compared between the groups, considering gender-specific quartiles of uric acid levels. The clinical baseline data were analyzed using appropriate statistical methods, and multivariate logistic regression analysis was conducted to identify independent risk factors for coronary heart disease.
Results: Of 860 patients (mean age, 63.97±11.87 years), 528 were men (mean age, 62.06±11.5 years) and 332 were women (mean age, 66.99±10.11 years). The proportion of smoking, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia in the coronary heart disease group was higher than that in the control group (P<0.05). HbA1C, Gensini score, BMI, TG and hsCRP in the coronary heart disease group were higher than those in the control group (P <0.05), and HDL-C was lower than that in the control group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in age, heart rate, Cr, TC, LDL-C and ca2+ between the two groups (P> 0.05).Multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that age, hypertension, hsCRP and SUA levels increased the risk of coronary heart disease, and the difference was statistically significant(OR=1.034,95%CI 1.016-1.052, P=0.001; OR=1.469,95%CI 1.007-2.142, P=0.046;OR=1.064,95%CI 1.026-1.105, P=0.001; OR=1.011,95%CI 1.008-1.014, P<0.001).
Conclusion: Uric acid exhibits a positive correlation with the Gensini score, serving as a standalone influential determinant for evaluating the extent of coronary artery stenosis and possessing a foretelling impact on the severity of coronary artery disease.
Synthesis of high entropy alloy polyhedra
Authors: Fu Lei , Liang Jingjing , Cao Guanghui , Zhang Yile , Li Zeyuan , Wan Xuhao , Guo Yuzheng , Zeng Mengqi
Published: September 2023

High entropy alloys (HEAs) are gaining extensive interest in materials science, and their facet engineering has long been a pursuit for materials design and advanced applications. However, limited by the poor compatibility of crystal face regulation in high entropy scenarios with the existing extreme-condition synthetic techniques, the synthesis of HEA polyhedra is still scarce and challenging. Herein, we proposed the strategy of biphasic-modulated dewetting for self-confinement growth under near-equilibrium conditions, thus realizing facet engineering of HEAs. We discovered that liquid metal endowing low surface energy could enhance the polyhedra stability by decreasing the whole-system energy. This strategy could also be extended to various HEA polyhedra with tunable chemical composition and crystal structure, with formation mechanism elucidated through density functional theory calculation and dynamic simulation.
1b1 splitting in the X-ray emission spectrum of liquid water is dominated by ultrafast dissociation
Authors: Martinez Todd , Cruzeiro Vinicius Wilian , Hait Diptarka , Shea Jacqueline , Hohenstein Edward
Published: September 2023

The 1b1 splitting observed in the K-edge non-resonant X-ray emission spectrum (XES) of liquid water has been a subject of intense debate. Some argue that it represents two distinct structural motifs, while others suggest that it is evidence of ultrafast dissociation within the core-hole lifetime. In this study, we use a theoretical approach to provide a nearly quantitative description of both non-resonant and pre-edge resonant XES. Our theoretical predictions indicate that the 1b1 splitting arises due to ultrafast dissociation, with the dynamics of this process dependent on the X-ray absorption energy. For non-resonant radiation, hydrogen is ejected as H+, while for pre-edge resonant radiation it is ejected as a neutral atom. This leads to near-dissociation for non-resonant radiation, as ~ 20% of all core-ionized molecules do not dissociate and dissociated protons still remain in close proximity to the parent hydroxyl fragment. In contrast, for pre-edge radiation, all core-excited molecules dissociate and the neutral H atom moves further away from the hydroxyl fragment, completely leaving the first solvation shell in most cases. Our simulations also predict the observed isotope effects in both non-resonant and pre-edge resonant XES and reveal that the so-called lower-energy 1b1 peak in the non-resonant XES is primarily of 3a1 symmetry. Additionally, we found that hydrogen bonding plays a significant role in explaining the XES behavior across different temperatures and phases.
Development and Validation of the Socio-Ecological Scale for Identifying Delays in Treatment for Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Jabeen Sadia , Zakar Rubeena , Fischer Florian
Published: September 2023

Background: The study was aimed at measuring the factors contributing to the delayed presentation of breast cancer patients within the socio-ecological context by developing a scale.
Methods: The study objectives were measured by developing the items on the basis of a five-point Likert-based scale named the Socio-Ecological Scale for Breast Cancer Patients (SES-BCP). The dimensionality of the measure and internal consistency were determined by collecting data from 350 breast cancer patients of five main hospitals in three main cities (Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad) in the Punjab province of Pakistan. A simple random sampling technique was employed, and socio-demographic factors were kept in consideration. The confirmatory factor analysis was applied for the factor structure in the study by using a structural equation model.
Results: With the distinctive five factors of the SES-BCP, a total of 51 items were confirmed in the final scale with sound psychometric properties.
Conclusions: It can be concluded that this scale is a valuable addition to assess the underlying factors of delayed presentation in patients with breast cancer in the context of socio-ecological model in Pakistan.
Comparison of cardiac activated fibroblast imaging and magnetic resonance imaging in patients with COVID-19–related myocarditis
Authors: Su Yao , Liu Xin , Xie Boqia , Zhang Bowen , Yang Qi , Yang Min-Fu
Published: September 2023

Background This study aimed to explore the association of cardiac fibroblast activation and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging parameters in patients with myocarditis following coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection.
Methods In this prospective study, four patients with COVID-19–related myocarditis underwent 99mTc-labeled–hydrazinonicotinamide-fibroblast activation protein inhibitor-04 (99mTc-HFAPi) single photon emission computed tomography/computed tomography (SPECT/CT) and CMR imaging. Segmental 99mTc-HFAPi activity was quantified as the percentage of average segmental myocardial count × global left ventricular target-to-background ratio. T1/T2 values, extracellular volume (ECV), and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) were analyzed at CMR. The consistency between myocardial 99mTc-HFAPi activity and CMR parameters was explored.
Results In patients with myocarditis, the proportion of segments with abnormal 99mTc-HFAPi activity was significantly higher than those with abnormal LGE (81.3% vs. 60.9%, p = 0.011), abnormal T2 (81.3% vs. 50.0%, p < 0.001), and abnormal ECV (81.3% vs. 59.4%, p = 0.007) but was similar in those with abnormal native T1 (81.3% vs. 73.4%, p = 0.291). Meanwhile, 99mTc-HFAPi imaging had good consistency with native T1 (kappa = 0.69).
Conclusion Increased cardiac 99mTc-HFAPi activity is present in COVID-19–related myocarditis, which is correlated with the native T1 values in CMR.
Professional values at the beginning of medical school: A quasi-experimental study
Authors: Vilagra Sandra , Vilagra Marlon , Giaxa Renata , Miguel Alice , Vilagra Lahis , Kehl Mariana , Martins Milton , Tempski Patricia
Published: September 2023

Background
Teaching professionalism in medical schools is central to medical education and society. We evaluated how medical students view the values of the medical profession on their first day of medical school and the influence of a conference about the competences of this profession on these students’ levels of reflection.
Methods
We studied two groups of medical students who wrote narratives about the values of the medical profession and the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on these values. The first group wrote the narratives after a conference about the competences of the medical profession (intervention group), and the second group wrote the same narratives after a biochemistry conference (control group). We also compared the levels of reflection of these two groups of students.
Results
Among the 175 medical students entering in the 2022 academic year, 159 agreed to participate in the study (response rate = 90.8%). There were more references to positive than negative models of doctor‒patient relationships experienced by the students (58.5% and 41.5% of responses, respectively). The intervention group referred to a more significant number of values than the control group did. The most cited values were empathy, humility, and ethics; the main competences were technical competence, communication/active listening, and resilience. The students’ perspectives of the values of their future profession were strongly and positively influenced by the pandemic experience. The students realized the need for constant updating, basing medical practice on scientific evidence, and employing skills/attitudes such as resilience, flexibility, and collaboration for teamwork. Analysis of the levels of reflection in the narratives showed a predominance of reflections with a higher level in the intervention group and of those with a lower level in the control group.
Conclusions
Our study showed that medical students, upon entering medical school, already have a view of medical professionalism, although they still need to present a deeper level of self-reflection. A single, planned intervention in medical professionalism can promote self-reflection. The vision of medical professional identity was strongly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, positively impacting the formation of a professional identity among the students who decided to enter medical school.
Analysis of behavioral flow resolves latent phenotypes
Authors: Bohacek Johannes , von Ziegler Lukas , Rössler Fabienne , Sturman Oliver , Waag Rebecca , Privitera Mattia , Duss Sian , O'Connor Eoin
Published: September 2023

Preclinical biomedical research depends on accurately detecting and quantifying rodent behavior. Current data-driven approaches, which segment free exploratory behavior into clusters, suffer from low statistical power due to multiple-testing, exhibit poor transferability across experiments, and fail to exploit the rich behavioral profiles of individual animals. We introduce a pipeline to capture each animal’s behavioral flow, yielding a single metric based on all observed transitions between clusters. By stabilizing these clusters through machine learning, we ensure data transferability, while dimensionality reduction techniques facilitate detailed analysis of individual animals. We provide a unique dataset of 443 behavior recordings of freely moving mice - including stress exposures, pharmacological and brain circuit interventions - to identify hidden treatment effects, reveal subtle variations on the level of individual animals, and detect brain processes underlying specific interventions. Our pipeline, compatible with popular clustering methods, significantly enhances statistical power and enables predictions of an animal’s future behavior.