bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visual preference for socially relevant spatial relations in humans and monkeys
Authors: Goupil Nicolas , Rayson Holly , Serraille Emilie , Massera Alice , Ferrari Pier Francesco , Hochmann Jean-Rémy , Papeo Liuba
Published: July 2023

As a powerful social signal, a body/face/gaze facing towards oneself holds an individual’s attention. We asked whether, going beyond an egocentric stance, facingness between others has a similar effect, and why. In a preferential-looking time paradigm, human adults showed spontaneous preference to look at two bodies facing towards (vs. away from) each other (Experiment 1a, N=24). Moreover, facing dyads were rated higher on social semantic dimensions, showing that facingness adds social value to stimuli (Experiment 1b, N=138). The same visual preference was found in macaque monkeys (Experiment 2, N=21). Finally, on the human development timescale, this preference emerged by 5 years, although young infants by 7 months of age already discriminate visual scenes on the basis of body positioning (Experiment 3, N=120). We discuss how the preference for facing dyads, shared by human adults, young children and macaques, can signal a new milestone in social cognition development, supporting processing and learning from third-party social interactions.
Modelling the Accuracy of Microcomb Photonic Microwave Transversal Signal Processors
Authors: Moss David
Published: July 2023

Photonic RF transversal signal processors, which are equivalent to reconfigurable electrical digital signal processors but implemented with photonic technologies, have been widely used for modern high-speed information processing. With the capability of generating large numbers of wavelength channels with compact micro-resonators, optical microcombs bring new opportunities for realizing photonic RF transversal signal processors that have greatly reduced size, power consumption, and complexity. Recently, a variety of signal processing functions have been demonstrated using microcomb-based photonic RF transversal signal processors. Here, we provide detailed analysis for quantifying the processing accuracy of microcomb-based photonic RF transversal signal processors. First, we investigate the theoretical limitations of the processing accuracy determined by tap number, signal bandwidth, and pulse waveform. Next, we discuss the practical error sources from different components of the signal processors. Finally, we analyze the contributions of the theoretical limitations and the experimental factors to the overall processing inaccuracy both theoretically and experimentally. These results provide a useful guide for designing microcomb-based photonic RF transversal signal processors to optimize their accuracy.
Dr. Juha Hernesniemi, Visionary Neurosurgeon and Compassionate Healer
Authors: Kafle Prakash
Published: July 2023

Dr. Juha Hernesniemi, a visionary in the field of neurosurgery, passed away on June 27, 2023, at the age of 75. Born on May 3, 1948, in Helsinki, Finland, Dr. Hernesniemi dedicated his life to advancing the understanding and treatment of complex neurovascular disorders.
PARAMETER DEMOKRASI DALAM PENUNJUKAN PENJABAT KEPALA DAERAH
Authors: Widad Zaqil
Published: July 2023

Penundaan pelaksanaan pilkada pada tahun 2022 serta 2023 mendatang berpotensi menyebabkan terjadinya kekosongan jabatan di lingkup pemerintahan daerah. Untuk mengatasi hal tersebut pemerintah menerapkan kebijakan penunjukan penjabat kepala daerah sebagai mekanisme untuk mengatasi kekosongan jabatan tersebut. Namun kebijakan tersebut nampaknya mendapat penolakan dari masyarakat dikarenakan kebijakan tersebut banyak mengandung problematika di dalamnya. Salah satu problematika dalam penunjukan penjabat kepala daerah yang banyak mendapatkan sorotan dari publik adalah tidak terbukanya ruang partisipasi masyarakat dalam proses penunjukan penjabat kepala daerah. Dengan menggunakan pendekatan yuridis normatif tulisan ini berusaha mengupas problematika tersebut. hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penunjukkan penjabat kepala daerah tidak melibatkan pertisipasi masyarakat dalam proses rekruitemnnya yang telah menciderai nilai-nilai demokrasi. Selain itu, penunjukan penjabat kepala daerah yang mengabaikan partisipasi masyarakat menimbulkan permasalahan baru, mulai dari penghidupan kembali peran dwi fungsi ABRI, disharmonisasi antar penyelenggara pemerintah daerah, dan bertentangan dengan penyelenggaraan otonomi daerah yang seluas-luasnya.
SOSIALISASI PENDIDIKAN ANTIKORUPSI GUNA MENCIPTAKAN GENERASI MUDA BERMUTU DI SMKS HARAPAN BARU, BEKASI UTARA
Authors: Siregar Nasaruddin , Dewi Nita Komala , Nursyamsi Sari Endah
Published: July 2023

Tujuan dari kegiatan PKM yakni mampu menguatkan kepribadian siswa yang akan menambah nilai tambah dari proses pendidikan yang telah dilakukan oleh pihak sekolah dengan memperkenalkan pendidikan antikorupsi. Sesuai dengan permasalahan yang dialami oleh mitra SMK Harapan Baru, Bekasi yakni permasalahan yang dialami oleh mitra yakni 1) Belum adanya pemahaman dari siswa/siswi yang berkaitan dengan wawasan norma agama yang tertuang dalam pembelajaran. 2) Mitra selama ini belum memiliki kurikulum pengajaran merdeka belajar yang berkaitan dengan pendidikan anti korupsi. 3) Perlunya memberikan informasi mengenai pendidikan anti korupsi kepada siswa/siswi untuk menghasilkan sumber daya manusia yang bermutu. Metode pelaksanaan kegiatan dengan memberikan penyuluhan dalam bentuk ceramah dan FGD (Focus Group Disscustion) yang dilaksanakan pada hari Rabu, 20 Juli 2022 di aula SMKS Harapan Baru, Bekasi dengan diikuti perwakilan siswa/wi sebanyak 30 orang. Hasil kegiatan yakni meningkatnya pengetahuan peserta mengenai korupsi, meningkatkan jiwa patriot siswa/wi, membantu mitra dalam penambahan pendidikan antikorupsi sebagai salah satu kurikulum MBKM dan sebagai motivasi bagi mitra untuk dapat melaksanakan kegiatan – kegiatan yang dapat menciptakan sumber daya manusia yang bermutu bagi dunia pendidikan.
Using the Artificial Gas Lift to Increase the Productivity of Noor Oil Field / Mishrif Formation
Authors: Salh Talib A. , Sahi Safaa H. , Ismael Shaymaa A. Hussein
Published: July 2023

Noor Oil Field is one of Iraqi oil fields located in Missan province / Amarah city. This field is not subjected to licensing rounds, but depends on the national effort of  Missan Oil Company. The first two wells in the field were drilled in seventies and were  not opened to production until 2009. The aim of this study is to study the possibility of using the method of gas lift to increase the productivity of this field . PROSPER software was used to design the continuous  gas lift by using maximum production rate in the design.

   The design was made after comparing  the measured pressure with the calculated pressure, this comparison  show  that the method of Beggs-Brill and Petroleum Expert2 gave the best results; therefore, these correlations have been adopted in the design of gas lift.

   The  point  of gas injection had been selected;  the optimum  gas injection  rate, the  maximum  oil production rate, the number of valves required for gas injection and their  depth, the  pressure required to open and close each valve  were calculated. The effect of  water-cut, change the amount of ratio of gas to oil and decline  reservoir  pressure in natural flow case and  gas lift  method case were studied. The results of gas lift design show that the maximum oil production rate is (1000) STB/Day and the optimum gas injection rate (2.65) MM Scf/Day at using  operating pressure of (1700) psi available at casing head and the minimum bottom hole  following pressure  is (1501.5) psi.
Permeability Prediction By Classical and Flow Zone Indictor (FZI) Methods for an Iraqi Gas Field
Authors: Al-Qattan Waffa Mustafa , Al Mohammed Ahmed Habeeb
Published: July 2023

The permeability is the most important parameter that indicates how efficient the reservoir fluids flow through the rock pores to the wellbore. Well-log evaluation and core measurements techniques are typically used to estimate it. In this paper, the permeability has been predicted by using classical and Flow zone indicator methods. A comparison between the two methods shows the superiority of the FZI method correlations, these correlations can be used to estimate permeability in un-cored wells with a good approximation.
Hydrogeochemical Evaluation of Groundwater for Drinking and Irrigation Purposes in Avudaiyarkoil Block, Pudukkottai District, Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Kongeswaran T. , Sivakumar K. , Muruganantham A. , Prabakaran K. , Perumal V. , Agastheeswaran V. , Bangaru Priyanga S. , Muthuramalingam R.
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the quality of groundwater for drinking and irrigation in the Avudaiyarkoil block of the Pudukottai district, which is a drought-prone region. Samples were collected from 20 wells on January 2021 and analysed for the water quality parameters, such as pH, EC, TDS, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+, K+, Cl-, HCO3, SO4, NO3 and F-. The analysis revealed that SO4 is the dominant ion followed by Cl-, HCO3-, Na+, Ca2+, Mg2+, K+, NO3- and F- with respect to the mean value 292>234>208.4>125>100>24.75>18>16.15>0.2. The analytical results were compared with WHO and BIS guideline values to know the groundwater potability and TH, TA, SAR, Na%, RSC, PI, MgC and KI were calculated using the analytical results to identify the suitability of groundwater for irrigation purposes.
Assessment of Indoor Air Quality in Different Spaces of Residential and Commercial Buildings in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Bagaber Maryam , Kaafil Shifana Fatima
Published: July 2023

Indoor air pollution has a significant impact on human health, triggering and inducing a wide range of diseases that result in high morbidity and mortality. In this study, indoor air pollution in different spaces of residential and commercial buildings is assessed in terms of air quality index (AQI), particulate matter PM2.5, particulate matter PM10, carbon dioxide, formaldehyde (HCHO), the total volatile organic compound (TVOC), humidity, and temperature. Two residential apartment buildings are chosen for study, one is in a busy outdoor area and the other is situated in a calm outdoor area to see the effects of outdoor air quality on indoor spaces. It is found that the indoor air quality of bedrooms in residential spaces and cafés in commercial buildings is higher than the standards, and it is recommended to provide proper ventilation for better living of the occupants. Also, it is found that there is minimal effect of infiltration of outdoor air pollutants on indoor air quality and the reason is due to the provision of mechanical ventilation with air filters and effective building envelope.
Impact of Yoga Versus Memory Enhancement Training on Hippocampal Connectivity in Older Women at Risk for Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Kilpatrick Lisa A. , Siddarth Prabha , Krause-Sorio Beatrix , Milillo Michaela M. , Aguilar-Faustino Yesenia , Ercoli Linda , Narr Katherine L. , Khalsa Dharma S. , Lavretsky Helen
Published: July 2023

Background:

Yoga may be an ideal early intervention for those with modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) development.

Objective:

To examine the effects of Kundalini yoga (KY) training versus memory enhancement training (MET) on the resting-state connectivity of hippocampal subregions in women with subjective memory decline and cardiovascular risk factors for AD.

Methods:

Participants comprised women with subjective memory decline and cardiovascular risk factors who participated in a parent randomized controlled trial (NCT03503669) of 12-weeks of KY versus MET and completed pre- and post-intervention resting-state magnetic resonance imaging scans (yoga: n = 11, age = 61.45±6.58 years; MET: n = 11, age = 64.55±6.41 years). Group differences in parcellated (Cole-anticevic atlas) hippocampal connectivity changes (post- minus pre-intervention) were evaluated by partial least squares analysis, controlling for age. Correlations between hippocampal connectivity and perceived stress and frequency of forgetting (assessed by questionnaires) were also evaluated.

Results:

A left anterior hippocampal subregion assigned to the default mode network (DMN) in the Cole-anticevic atlas showed greater increases in connectivity with largely ventral visual stream regions with KY than with MET ( p < 0.001), which showed associations with lower stress ( p < 0.05). Several posterior hippocampal subregions assigned to sensory-based networks in the Cole-anticevic atlas showed greater increases in connectivity with regions largely in the DMN and frontoparietal network with MET than with KY ( p < 0.001), which showed associations with lower frequency of forgetting ( p < 0.05).

Conclusion:

KY training may better target stress-related hippocampal connectivity, whereas MET may better target hippocampal sensory-integration supporting better memory reliability, in women with subjective memory decline and cardiovascular risk factors.
Associations Between Local Area Deprivation and Physical Activity Participation in People with Cognitive Impairment in the North East of England
Authors: Mc Ardle Ríona , Hamilton Calum , Del Din Silvia , Kingston Andrew , Robinson Louise , Galna Brook , Thomas Alan J. , Rochester Lynn
Published: July 2023

Background:

Promoting physical activity, such as habitual walking behaviors, in people with cognitive impairment may support their ability to remain independent with a good quality of life for longer. However, people with cognitive impairment participate in less physical activity compared to cognitively unimpaired older adults. The local area in which people live may significantly impact abilities to participate in physical activity. For example, people who live in more deprived areas may have less safe and walkable routes.

Objective:

To examine this further, this study aimed to explore associations between local area deprivation and physical activity in people with cognitive impairment and cognitively unimpaired older adults (controls).

Methods:

87 participants with cognitive impairment (mild cognitive impairment or dementia) and 27 older adult controls from the North East of England were included in this analysis. Participants wore a tri-axial wearable accelerometer (AX3, Axivity) on their lower backs continuously for seven days. The primary physical activity outcome was daily step count. Individuals’ neighborhoods were linked to UK government area deprivation statistics. Hierarchical Bayesian models assessed the association between local area deprivation and daily step count in people with cognitive impairment and controls.

Results:

Key findings indicated that there was no association between local area deprivation and daily step count in people with cognitive impairment, but higher deprivation was associated with lower daily steps for controls.

Conclusion:

These findings suggest that cognitive impairment may be associated with lower participation in physical activity which supersedes the influence of local area deprivation observed in normal aging.
Large time behavior of solution to second-order fractal difference equation with positive fuzzy parameters
Authors: Zhang Qianhong , Pan Bairong , Ouyang Miao , Lin Fubiao
Published: July 2023

The article is concerned with large time behavior of solution to second-order fractal difference equation with positive fuzzy parameters x n + 1 = A + x n B + x n - 1 ,     n = 1 , 2 , ⋯ , here the initial values xi (i = -1, 0) and the parameters A, B are positive fuzzy numbers. Utilizing a generalization of division (g-division) of fuzzy numbers, one presents large time behaviors of positive fuzzy solution including persistence, boundedness, global convergence. Moreover, two numerical examples verify the effectiveness of the qualitative analysis.
RETRACTED: Research on the teaching quality evaluation of painting majors in universities based on the 2-tuple linguistic pythagorean fuzzy sets
Authors: Zhang Yunlai
Published: July 2023

This article has been retracted. A retraction notice can be found at https://doi.org/10.3233/JIFS-219433.
Tác động của hệ số an toàn vốn đến hoạt động tín dụng của các ngân hàng thương mại Việt
Nam
Authors: Lê Hải Trung
Published: July 2023

Bài viết đánh giá tác động của hệ số an toàn vốn đến hoạt động tín dụng của các ngân hàng thương mại Việt Nam trên góc độ tăng trưởng và rủi ro tín dụng. Sử dụng dữ liệu dạng bảng của 26 ngân hàng thương mại Việt Nam từ năm 2005 đến năm 2021, tác giả chỉ ra rằng hệ số an toàn vốn có tác động hỗ trợ đối với hoạt động tín dụng của các ngân hàng thương mại khi sự cải thiện của hệ số an toàn vốn năm nay giúp các ngân hàng thương mại gia tăng tốc độ tăng trưởng tín dụng, đồng thời, giảm thiểu rủi ro trong hoạt động tín dụng ở năm tiếp theo. Đặc biệt, mô hình định lượng mở rộng cho thấy tác động hỗ trợ này của hệ số an toàn vốn tới hoạt động tín dụng là lớn hơn ở các ngân hàng thương mại có quy mô nhỏ hoặc các ngân hàng thương mại không có yếu tố sở hữu nhà nước. Dựa trên các kết quả định lượng, tác giả đưa ra một số hàm ý chính sách đối với Ngân hàng nhà nước và các ngân hàng thương mại.
ANALISIS PENGARUH OVERSIZE SILINDER DENGAN VARIASI TINGKAT KECEPATAN TERHADAP UNJUK KERJA SEPEDA MOTOR SUPRA FIT
Authors: Joni
Published: July 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh unjuk kerja motor Supra Fit 100 CC yang sebelum dan sesudah oversize dengan variasi tingkat kecepatan transmisi. Metode yang digunakan yaitu dengan membandingkan data hasil pengukuran dengan software VDAS pada kondisi sebelum dan sesudah oversize dengan memvariasikan tingkat kecepatan transmisinya, yang dimulai dari transmisi I sampai dengan transmisi IV. Hasil penelitian menunjukan bahwa waktu yang dibutuhkan untuk mengkonsumsi bahan bakar 8 mL dengan waktu rata-rata 95,53 detik (gigi I); 97,00 detik (gigi II); 98,50 detik (gigi III) dan 99,62 detik (gigi IV). Untuk oversize,waktu rata-rata konsumsi bahan bakar 88,60 detik (gigi I); 89,30 detik (gigi II); 91,26 detik (gigi III) dan 93,40 detik (gigi IV).
E-Retribusi Pasar di Pasar Sanggam Adji Dilayas Kabupaten Berau Kalimantan Timur
Authors: Irawan Bambang , Tiani Lilis
Published: July 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan bagaimana pelaksanaan e-retribusi di Pasar Sanggam Adji Dilayas Kabupaten Berau. Jenis penelitian yang digunakan merupakan penelitian kualitatif, dengan fokus penelitian yaitu pelaksanaan e-retribusi. Sumber data diperoleh menggunakan teknik purposive sampling dan snowball sampling. Pengumpulan data dilakukan dengan observasi, wawancara, dan dokumentasi. Adapun teknik analisis data menggunakan model interaktif dari Miles dan Huberman. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pelaksanaan e-retribusi pasar tidak efektif dari aspek peningkatan PAD Kabupaten Berau, hal ini dikarenakan pada tahap sosialisasi yang dilakukan kurang maksimal. Kemudian tahap pembuatan e-retribusi ditemukan kurangnya koordinasi dan tidak adanya SOP. Pada tahap penarikan e-retribusi menggunakan EDC hanya berjalan tiga bulan, kemudian penggantian sistem ditahun 2022 e-retribusi oleh BPD Kaltimtara dengan menggunakan aplikasi dan transaksi jual beli dengan menggunakan QRIS, namun presentase pengguna masih rendah. Selanjutnya pada tingkat kesadaran pedagang dalam membayar retribusi baik secara non tunai maupun tunai masih rendah namun tingkat kesadaran tenaga penarik retribusi sudah baik, temuan lain penelitian ini adalah dalam pelaksanaanya e-retribusi tidak dapat mengakomodasi pembayaran tunggakan
Emerging possibilities in the advancement of herbicides to combat acetyl-CoA carboxylase inhibitor resistance
Authors: Rajak Bikash Kumar , Rani Priyanka , Mandal Pranabesh , Chhokar Rajender Singh , Singh Nitesh , Singh Durg Vijay
Published: July 2023

Acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACCase: EC 6.4.1.2) is one of the essential biotins containing enzymes required by plants for fatty acid synthesis and elongation. The unique enzyme is present in its homomeric form in all the Gramineae family, making it a suitable target for developing herbicides selectively against weeds of the Gramineae family. One such example is infestation of Phalaris minor in winter wheat crop fields, where aryloxyphenoxypropionates (FOP); cyclohexanediones (DIM) and phenyl pyrazoline (DEN) group of ACCase inhibiting herbicides are used. However, the increasing number of ACCase herbicide resistant weed populations has compelled agro-scientists to seek varied possibilities for weed control, through Integrated Weed Management (IWM) strategies. Developing new potential herbicides to regain sensitivity in weeds could be an approach to weed control. The current advancement in computational techniques could be of aid in developing new herbicide-like molecules by exploring the genomics, proteomics and structural details of catalytic sites of herbicide action in crops as well as weeds.
Association of gestational hypertriglyceridemia, diabetes with serum ferritin levels in early pregnancy: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Zhang ZhuYuan , Li Xing , Zhou XueXin , Zhang Yan , Gan XuPei , Xu XianMing , Wu Hao
Published: July 2023

Aims

Previous studies showed conflicting results linking body iron stores to the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and dyslipidemia. We aim to investigate the relationship between serum ferritin, and the prevalence of GDM, insulin resistance (IR) and hypertriglyceridemia.

Methods

A total of 781 singleton pregnant women of gestation in Shanghai General Hospital took part in the retrospective cohort study conducted. The participants were divided into four groups by quartiles of serum ferritin levels (Q1–4). Binary logistic regressions were used to examine the strength of association between the different traits and the serum ferritin (sFer) quartiles separately, where Q1 (lowest ferritin quartile) was taken as the base reference. One-way ANOVA was adopted to compare the averages of the different variables across Sfer quartiles.

Results

Compared with the lowest serum ferritin quartile (Q1), the ORs for Q3, and Q4 in our population were 1.79 (1.01–2.646), and 2.07 (1.089-2.562) respectively and this trend persisted even after adjusted for age and pre-BMI. Women with higher serum ferritin quartile including Q3 (OR=2.182, 95%CI=1.729-5.527, P=0.003) and Q4(OR=3.137, 95%CI=3.137-8.523, P<0.01)are prone to develop insulin resistance disorders. No significant difference was observed between sFer concentrations and gestational hypertriglyceridemia(GTG) in the comparison among these 4 groups across logistic regressions but TG was found positively correlated with increased ferritin values in the second trimester.

Conclusions

Increased concentrations of plasma ferritin in early pregnancy are significantly and positively associated with insulin resistance and incidence of GDM but not gestational dyslipidemia. Further clinical studies are warranted to determine whether it is necessary to encourage pregnant women to take iron supplement as a part of routine antenatal care.
Case report: Asp194Ala variant in MFN2 is associated with ALS-FTD in an Italian family
Authors: Vinciguerra C. , Di Fonzo A. , Monfrini E. , Ronchi D. , Cuoco S. , Piscosquito G. , Barone P. , Pellecchia M. T
Published: July 2023

Background:MFN2 gene encodes the protein Mitofusin 2, involved in essential mitochondrial functions such as fusion, trafficking, turnover, and cellular interactions. We describe a family carrying a novel MFN2 mutation associated with ALS-frontotemporal dementia (FTD) clinical phenotype in the mother and Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2A (CMT2A) in her son.

Case presentation: The mother, a 67-year-old woman, referred to us for a three year-history of mood disturbance and gait impairment, and a more recent hypophonia, dysarthria, dysphagia, and diffuse muscle wasting. Family history was positive for psychiatric disorders and gait disturbances. Brain 18F-FDG PET showed severe hypometabolism in the fronto-temporal brain cortex bilaterally. Electrodiagnostic studies (EDX) showed severe motor axonopathy in the bulbar, cervical and lumbosacral districts. Her 41-year-old son had a history of mood depression and sensory disturbances in the limbs, along with mild muscle wasting, weakness, and reduced reflexes. Nerve conduction studies revealed a moderate sensory-motor polyneuropathy, while brain MRI was normal. Whole exome sequencing of the patients’ DNA identified the novel MFN2 (NM_014874.4) variant c.581A>C p.(Asp194Ala).

Conclusion: Our findings provide evidence of heterogenous clinical manifestations in family members sharing the same MFN2 molecular defect. Additionally, we present the first documented case of ASL-FTD associated with an MFN2 mutation, thereby expanding the range of MFN-related disorders. Further research involving larger cohorts of patients will be needed to better understand the role of MFN2 as a contributing gene in the development of ALS-FTD.
HDAC6 inhibition: a significant potential regulator and therapeutic option to translate into clinical practice in renal transplantation
Authors: Zhang Qian-qian , Zhang Wei-jie , Chang Sheng
Published: July 2023

Histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6), an almost exclusively cytoplasmic enzyme, plays an essential role in many biological processes and exerts its deacetylation-dependent/independent effects on a variety of target molecules, which has contributed to the flourishing growth of relatively isoform-specific enzyme inhibitors. Renal transplantation (RT) is one of the alternatively preferred treatments and the most cost-effective treatment approaches for the great majority of patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). HDAC6 expression and activity have recently been shown to be increased in kidney disease in a number of studies. To date, a substantial amount of validated studies has identified HDAC6 as a pivotal modulator of innate and adaptive immunity, and HDAC6 inhibitors (HDAC6i) are being developed and investigated for use in arrays of immune-related diseases, making HDAC6i a promising therapeutic candidate for the management of a variety of renal diseases. Based on accumulating evidence, HDAC6i markedly open up new avenues for therapeutic intervention to protect against oxidative stress–induced damage, tip the balance in favor of the generation of tolerance-related immune cells, and attenuate fibrosis by inhibiting multiple activations of cell profibrotic signaling pathways. Taken together, we have a point of view that targeting HDAC6 may be a novel approach for the therapeutic strategy of RT-related complications, including consequences of ischemia-reperfusion injury, induction of immune tolerance in transplantation, equilibrium of rejection, and improvement of chronic renal graft interstitial fibrosis after transplantation in patients. Herein, we will elaborate on the unique function of HDAC6, which focuses on therapeutical mechanism of action related to immunological events with a general account of the tantalizing potential to the clinic.
Oxidative stress and inflammation in diabetic nephropathy: role of polyphenols
Authors: Jin Qi , Liu Tongtong , Qiao Yuan , Liu Donghai , Yang Liping , Mao Huimin , Ma Fang , Wang Yuyang , Peng Liang , Zhan Yongli
Published: July 2023

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) often leads to end-stage renal disease. Oxidative stress demonstrates a crucial act in the onset and progression of DN, which triggers various pathological processes while promoting the activation of inflammation and forming a vicious oxidative stress-inflammation cycle that induces podocyte injury, extracellular matrix accumulation, glomerulosclerosis, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, renal tubular atrophy, and proteinuria. Conventional treatments for DN have limited efficacy. Polyphenols, as antioxidants, are widely used in DN with multiple targets and fewer adverse effects. This review reveals the oxidative stress and oxidative stress-associated inflammation in DN that led to pathological damage to renal cells, including podocytes, endothelial cells, mesangial cells, and renal tubular epithelial cells. It demonstrates the potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties by targeting Nrf2, SIRT1, HMGB1, NF-κB, and NLRP3 of polyphenols, including quercetin, resveratrol, curcumin, and phenolic acid. However, there remains a long way to a comprehensive understanding of molecular mechanisms and applications for the clinical therapy of polyphenols.
Evaluating the spread of stony coral tissue loss disease in the Bay Islands, Honduras
Authors: Truc Mar , Rivera Antonella , Ochoa Gabriela M. , Dueñas Damaris , Guifarro Zara , Brady Gisselle , Zúniga Zara , Gutiérrez Braulio , Chock Caitlin , Zaldivar Laura
Published: July 2023

Scleractinian corals, considered key reef ecosystem engineers, have suffered irreparable damage over the last decades, with causes widely attributed directly and indirectly to increased human pressure on coral communities. Stony coral tissue loss disease (SCTLD), first detected in Florida in 2014, by early 2023 had spread to 26 jurisdictions in the wider Caribbean, causing severe effects on coral reefs. In January 2020, monitoring efforts to detect SCTLD began on the island of Roatan in Honduras. The disease was first reported in Flowers Bay, Roatan, in September 2020. Since then, dedicated collaborative efforts have been made to assess the severity of the disease, mitigate its effects, and raise coral reef conservation awareness. To track the progression of the outbreak, presence-absence data were collected using the rover diver methodology. With at least 28 species affected, SCTLD has spread across the Bay Islands over a period of 13 months. Roatan and Utila have been the most impacted islands, with the disease encircling them rapidly at a rate of approximately 155 m/day. The spread of SCTLD was overall rapid, but geographical patterns were detected in Roatan, where it showed faster progression on the windward side than on the leeward side. Further research is required to explore whether these disparities are related to marine traffic, water quality, currents, or a combination of multiple factors. Our findings shed new knowledge on the spread of SCTLD in Honduras, which can provide insights for other Caribbean nations whose economies are also dependent on the health of their coral reefs.
A new experimental method to measure and calculate the tensile strength of concrete
Authors: Chai Qihui , Huang Shasha , Wan Fang , Wu Feng , Feng Lingyun
Published: July 2023

Introduction: A new method is introduced to test the tensile strength of concrete: the cylinder transverse splitting test. Compared with the cylinder splitting (or Brazilian) test, the cylinder transverse splitting test involves different load positions and offers the advantages of doubling the data volume with the same number of specimens and improving the detection accuracy.

Methods: Finite element analysis software was used to simulate the concrete cylinder transverse splitting test and the stress distribution on the failure surface was determined.

Results and Discussion: The results show that the fracture of a cylinder is mainly determined by tensile stress. The splitting strength of normal concrete and crumb rubber concrete, a new environmentally friendly concrete material that has gathered considerable attention in recent years, was obtained by cylinder transverse and cube splitting tests. The cylinder transverse splitting test data show a stable correlation with the cube splitting test data and well characterize the concrete strength. The relationship between the cylinder nominal transverse splitting strength (f2) and cube splitting strength (f1) was established on the basis of linear analysis of the test data: f1 = 0.51f2. The calculated cube splitting strength is in good agreement with the test values.
Hepatorenal dysfunction in patients with chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Yogeswaran Athiththan , Zedler Daniel , Richter Manuel J. , Steinke Sonja , Rako Zvonimir A. , Kremer Nils C. , Grimminger Friedrich , Seeger Werner , Ghofrani Hossein Ardeschir , Gall Henning , Tello Khodr
Published: July 2023

Background

Cardiac interactions with organs such as the liver or kidneys have been described in different cardiovascular diseases. However, the clinical relevance of hepatorenal dysfunction in chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension (CTEPH) remains unclear. We determined the association of hepatorenal dysfunction (measured using the Model for End-stage Liver Disease Sodium [MELDNa] score) with right heart function and survival in patients with CTEPH.

Methods

We analyzed all patients with CTEPH in the Giessen Pulmonary Hypertension Registry who had available MELDNa scores and were not taking vitamin K antagonists. The MELDNa score was calculated as MELD score − serum Na − (0.025 * MELD score * (140 − serum Na)) + 140; the MELD score was calculated as 10*(0.957*ln(creatinine)+0.378*ln(bilirubin)+1.12*ln(International Normalized Ratio))+6.43.

Results

Seventy-two patients were included (74% female; median [Q1, Q3] MELDNa: 9 [6, 11]). MELDNa correlated well with right atrial and ventricular function and pulmonary hemodynamics. Forward regression analysis revealed that hepatorenal dysfunction mainly depends on right atrial strain and tricuspid regurgitation, but not right ventricular systolic dysfunction. Hepatorenal dysfunction predicted mortality at baseline and follow-up (adjusted hazard ratios [95% confidence intervals] per unit increase of MELDNa: 1.6 [1.1, 2.4] and 1.8 [1.1, 2.9], respectively). Changes in hepatorenal function also predicted mortality.

Conclusion

Hepatorenal dysfunction in CTEPH is primarily associated with venous congestion rather than cardiac forward failure. As a surrogate parameter for hepatorenal dysfunction, MELDNa is a simple method to identify at-risk patients at baseline and follow-up.
Maternal Toxoplasma gondii infection affects proliferation, differentiation and cell cycle regulation of retinal neural progenitor cells in mouse embryo
Authors: Campos Viviane Souza de , Magalhães Camila Feitosa , da Rosa Barbara Gomes , dos Santos Carolina Moreira , Fragel-Madeira Lucianne , Figueiredo Danniel Pereira , Calaza Karin C. , Adesse Daniel
Published: July 2023

Background

Toxoplasmosis affects one third of the world population and has the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii as etiological agent. Congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) can cause severe damage to the fetus, including miscarriages, intracranial calcification, hydrocephalus and retinochoroiditis. Severity of CT depends on the gestational period in which infection occurs, and alterations at the cellular level during retinal development have been reported. In this study, we proposed a mouse CT model to investigate the impact of infection on retinal development.

Methods

Pregnant females of pigmented C57BL/6 strain mice were infected intragastrically with two T. gondii cysts (ME49 strain) at embryonic day 10 (E10), and the offspring were analyzed at E18.

Results

Infected embryos had significantly smaller body sizes and weights than the PBS-treated controls, indicating that embryonic development was affected. In the retina, a significant increase in the number of Ki-67-positive cells (marker of proliferating cells) was found in the apical region of the NBL of infected mice compared to the control. Supporting this, cell cycle proteins Cyclin D3, Cdk6 and pChK2 were significantly altered in infected retinas. Interestingly, the immunohistochemical analysis showed a significant increase in the population of β-III-tubulin-positive cells, one of the earliest markers of neuronal differentiation.

Conclusions

Our data suggests that CT affects cell cycle progression in retinal progenitor cells, possibly inducing the arrest of these cells at G2/M phase. Such alterations could influence the differentiation, anticipating/increasing neuronal maturation, and therefore leading to abnormal retinal formation. Our model mimics important events observed in ocular CT.
Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on adults with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: linking immune function to mental health status
Authors: Bodnar Tamara S. , Chao Amanda , Holman Parker J. , Ellis Linda , Raineki Charlis , Weinberg Joanne
Published: July 2023

Prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) is known to cause a variety of cognitive, behavioral, and neurological changes. Importantly, mental health problems are also overrepresented in individuals with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), the group of neurodevelopmental conditions that can occur following PAE. Approximately 90% of individuals with FASD report experiencing mental health problems over their lifespan, compared to approximately 30% in the overall population. Individuals with FASD also display impairments in coping skills and increased vulnerability to stress. Here, we investigated whether the COVID-19 pandemic would have a differential impact on mental health and inflammation-to-mood associations in adults with FASD, compared to unexposed controls (no PAE). We capitalized on our pre-pandemic study examining health and immune function and invited past-participants to enroll in the current study. Participants completed mental health assessments and COVID-related questionnaires by phone. In addition, blood samples collected at baseline (pre-pandemic) were used to probe for inflammation-to-mood associations. Overall, our results indicate that lower SES was predictive of higher coronavirus anxiety scores, with no differences between adults with FASD and controls. In addition, while there were no differences in depression or anxiety measures at baseline (pre-pandemic) or during the pandemic, examination of inflammation-to-mood associations identified differential relationships in adults with FASD compared to unexposed controls. Specifically, there was a positive association between baseline neutrophil counts and both baseline and pandemic mental health scores in unexposed controls only. In addition, for unexposed controls there was also a negative association between baseline interferon-ɣ (IFN-ɣ) and pandemic mental health scores. By contrast, only adults with FASD showed positive associations between baseline interleukin-12p70 (IL-12p70), IL-8, soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (sICAM-1), and soluble vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (sVCAM-1) and pandemic mental health scores. Taken together, to our knowledge, this study is the first to examine the impact of the pandemic in adults with FASD. And while it may be too soon to predict the long-term effects of the pandemic on mental health, our data suggest that it will be important that future work also takes into account how immune function may be modulating mental health outcomes in this population.
Current therapies and future prospective for locally aggressive mesenchymal tumors
Authors: Maleddu Alessandra , Zhu Jessica , Clay Michael Roy , Wilky Breelyn Ann
Published: July 2023

Locally aggressive mesenchymal tumors comprise a heterogeneous group of soft tissue and bone tumors with intermediate histology, incompletely understood biology, and highly variable natural history. Despite having a limited to absent ability to metastasize and excellent survival prognosis, locally aggressive mesenchymal tumors can be symptomatic, require prolonged and repeat treatments including surgery and chemotherapy, and can severely impact patients’ quality of life. The management of locally aggressive tumors has evolved over the years with a focus on minimizing morbid treatments. Extensive oncologic surgeries and radiation are pillars of care for high grade sarcomas, however, play a more limited role in management of locally aggressive mesenchymal tumors, due to propensity for local recurrence despite resection, and the risk of transformation to a higher-grade entity following radiation. Patients should ideally be evaluated in specialized sarcoma centers that can coordinate complex multimodal decision-making, taking into consideration the individual patient’s clinical presentation and history, as well as any available prognostic factors into customizing therapy. In this review, we aim to discuss the biology, clinical management, and future treatment frontiers for three representative locally aggressive mesenchymal tumors: desmoid-type fibromatosis (DF), tenosynovial giant cell tumor (TSGCT) and giant cell tumor of bone (GCTB). These entities challenge clinicians with their unpredictable behavior and responses to treatment, and still lack a well-defined standard of care despite recent progress with newly approved or promising experimental drugs.
A Bayesian model for control strategy selection against Plasmopara viticola infections
Authors: Valleggi Lorenzo , Carella Giuseppe , Perria Rita , Mugnai Laura , Stefanini Federico Mattia
Published: July 2023

Plant pathogens pose a persistent threat to grape production, causing significant economic losses if disease management strategies are not carefully planned and implemented. Simulation models are one approach to address this challenge because they provide short-term and field-scale disease prediction by incorporating the biological mechanisms of the disease process and the different phenological stages of the vines. In this study, we developed a Bayesian model to predict the probability ofPlasmopara viticolainfection in grapevines, considering various disease management approaches. To aid decision-making, we introduced a multi-attribute utility function that incorporated a sustainability index for each strategy. The data used in this study were derived from trials conducted during the production years 2018-2020, involving the application of five disease management strategies: conventional Integrated Pest Management (IPM), conventional organic, IPM with substantial fungicide reduction combined with host-defense inducing biostimulants, organic management with biostimulants, and the use of biostimulants only. Two scenarios were considered, one with medium pathogen pressure (Average) and another with high pathogen pressure (Severe). The results indicated that when sustainability indexes were not considered, the conventional IPM strategy provided the most effective disease management in the Average scenario. However, when sustainability indexes were included, the utility values of conventional strategies approached those of reduced fungicide strategies due to their lower environmental impact. In the Severe scenario, the application of biostimulants alone emerged as the most effective strategy. These results suggest that in situations of high disease pressure, the use of conventional strategies effectively combats the disease but at the expense of a greater environmental impact. In contrast to mechanistic-deterministic approaches recently published in the literature, the proposed Bayesian model takes into account the main sources of heterogeneity through the two group-level effects, providing accurate predictions, although precise estimates of random effects may require larger samples than usual. Moreover, the proposed Bayesian model assists the agronomist in selecting the most effective crop protection strategy while accounting for induced environmental side effects through customizable utility functions.
Insights into mechanisms of seed longevity in soybean: a review
Authors: Rao Polneni Jagan Mohan , Pallavi Mandalapu , Bharathi Yarasi , Priya P. Bindu , Sujatha Patta , Prabhavathi Kona
Published: July 2023

Soybean, a crop of international importance, is challenged with the problem of seed longevity mainly due to its genetic composition and associated environmental cues. Soybean’s fragile seed coat coupled with poor DNA integrity, ribosomal dysfunction, lipid peroxidation and poor antioxidant system constitute the rationale for fast deterioration. Variability among the genotypes for sensitivity to field weathering contributed to their differential seed longevity. Proportion and density of seed coat, glassy state of cells, calcium and lignin content, pore number, space between seed coat and cotyledon are some seed related traits that are strongly correlated to longevity. Further, efficient antioxidant system, surplus protective proteins, effective nucleotide and protein repair systems and free radical scavenging mechanisms also contributed to the storage potential of soybean seeds. Identification of molecular markers and QTLs associated with these mechanisms will pave way for enhanced selection efficiency for seed longevity in soybean breeding programs. This review reflects on the morphological, biochemical and molecular bases of seed longevity along with pointers on harvest, processing and storage strategies for extending vigour and viability in soybean.
The Swedish COVID-19 approach: a scientific dialogue on mitigation policies
Authors: Björkman Anders , Gisslén Magnus , Gullberg Martin , Ludvigsson Johnny
Published: July 2023

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Sweden was among the few countries that did not enforce strict lockdown measures but instead relied more on voluntary and sustainable mitigation recommendations. While supported by the majority of Swedes, this approach faced rapid and continuous criticism. Unfortunately, the respectful debate centered around scientific evidence often gave way to mudslinging. However, the available data on excess all-cause mortality rates indicate that Sweden experienced fewer deaths per population unit during the pandemic (2020–2022) than most high-income countries and was comparable to neighboring Nordic countries through the pandemic. An open, objective scientific dialogue is essential for learning and preparing for future outbreaks.
A Qualitative Exploration on Perceived Socio-Cultural Factors Contributing to Undernutrition Among Under-Fives in the Southern Highlands of Tanzania
Authors: Frumence Gasto , Jin Yannan , Kasangala Amalberga A. , Mang’enya Mary A. , Bakar Saidah , Ochieng Bertha
Published: July 2023

Objective: Under nutrition especially among under-fives is a major public health challenge in Tanzania. However, the contribution of cultural practices to child under nutrition is often overlooked. This study aimed to explore the perceived socio-cultural factors contributing to the persisting under nutrition among under-fives in Tanzania.

Methods: The study applied focus group discussion (FDGs) with forty practitioners to examine the sociocultural factors contributing to under nutrition during early childhood. The study participants were purposively selected and thematic analysis was used to identify themes within the data.

Results: This study revealed that, under nutrition for under-fives is caused by a number of socio-cultural factors including existence of gender inequality related to dietary practices and qualities, women’s excessive workload, patriarchy social-norm, excessive alcohol use and cultural taboos prohibiting women and girls from eating certain types of nutrient dense foods.

Conclusion: The study highlights the multiplicity of factors including socio-cultural perspectives contributing to under nutrition among under-fives, and calls for a concerted efforts in developing and implementing issue-specific and culturally sensitive strategies towards elimination of child under nutrition.
Present and Future of ZrO2 Nanostructure as Reservoir for Drug Loading and Release
Authors: Radu (Dușman) Ramona-Daniela , Drăgănescu Doina
Published: July 2023

Extensive research has been conducted on ZrO2 nanostructures due to their favorable biocompatibility, low toxicity, and promising prospects in various biomedical applications. They can be used as drug carriers, facilitating the administration of therapeutic substances into the body while enhancing their effectiveness and safety. This is achieved by regulating the timing, location, and rate at which drugs are released within the body. Several factors can influence the effectiveness of drug loading onto ZrO2 nanostructures, such as the physicochemical characteristics of the drugs, the surface properties of the ZrO2 nanostructures, and the specific methods used for drug loading. A wide range of drugs may be loaded onto ZrO2 nanostructures including anti-cancer drugs, antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, antifungal drugs, anti-osteoporotic drugs, etc. The release kinetics of drugs can be influenced by different factors, such as the size and shape of ZrO2 nanostructures, the pH and temperature of the release medium, and the characteristics and molecular weight of the specific drug being released. While ZrO2 nanostructures have demonstrated significant potential as drug delivery systems, further research on these structures is essential to optimize drug loading and release strategies.