bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategi Kepala Sekolah Dalam Menangkal Faham Radikalisme Di MASS Jombang Tebuireng
Authors: Muhammad Yaqi Dynal maula  , Nur 'Azzah
Published: August 2024

Radikalisme merupakan sebuah paham dan gerakan yang sampai saat ini masih menjadi tantangan berat bagi masyarakat Indonesia termasuk umat Islam. Lembaga Pendidikan Nasional memiliki peran dalam mengembangkan dan membentuk kepribadian. Madrasah Aliyah Salafiyah Syafi’iyah (MASS) Tebuireng menjadi salah satu lembaga yang mengedepankan penanaman nilai anti radikalisme. Kepala sekolah sebagai supervisor pada lembaga pendidikan menjadi garda terdepan dalam merencanakan strategi guna menanggulangi paham radikalisme. Adapun tujuan Pada penelitian ini 1) mengatahui strategi kepala sekolah MASS Tebuireng dalam menangkal faham radikalisme, 2) mengetahui dampak strategi kepala sekolah dalam menangkal faham radikalisme di MASS Tebuireng, 3) mengetahui faktor pendukung dan penghambat dalam meenangkal faham radikalisme. Metode yantg di gunakan dalam penelitian ini adalah penelitian kualitatif deskriptif. kualitatif deskriptif merupakan suatu penelitian yang dilakukan dengan cara mengumpulkan data memalui observasi. Analisi data berupa reduksi data, penyajian data, dan penarikan kesimpulan. Adapun keabsahan data mengunakan triangulasi sumber, triangulasi waktu dan triangulasi teknik. Hasil dari penelitian ini adalah Strategi yang dilakukan oleh kepala sekolah dalam menangkal faham radikalisme di MASS Tebuireng Jombang yaitu dengan menambah beberapa muatan lokal yang berkenaan dengan nilai pluralisme, lalu memfokuskan pada kegiatan positif dan pengembangan bimbingan dan konseling yang bersekala Hal ini memiliki dampak yang positif yang sangt signifikan dalam menangkal faham radikalisme. Faktor pendukung dalam strategi ini adalah adanya keselarasan pemikiran antara pendidik dan tenaga kependidikan.
Relationship between Parental Social Support and o Menarche Readiness among Adolescents at Islamic Centre Binbaz: A Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Widyaningrum Rahmah , Raditya Ngaisah Eka , Anggraeni Dwi Nur , Antari Isti
Published: August 2024

Aims: This study aims to analyze the relationship between the social support of parents and the preparedness for menarche in adolescents.
Methods: This research uses quantitative research with a cross-sectional design. The study was conducted at the Islamic Centre Binbaz Elementary High School. The sample consisted of 50 respondents using the total sampling techniques. The instruments used were the social support questionnaire of parents and the preparedness for menarche. Bivariate analysis used the Spearman rho test.
Result: Parental support for menstruation in the negative category of 31 people (62%) and preparedness for menarche in female adolescents is as high as 35 people (70%). There is a relationship between social support of parents with menarche readiness with a p-value of 0.024 and a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.320.
Discussions: In reproductive health, especially regarding menarche, parents are expected to communicate better with their children about puberty issues, because it helps ensure healthy child sexuality. Focusing on building communication between parents and children, is an effective strategy for increasing overall support for children's health. Parental support in preparing children for menarche includes being an educator who provides complete and correct information about menstruation, maintaining hygiene during menstruation, and both physical and mental support when facing menarche.
Conclusion: This research indicates a relationship between parental social support and readiness for menarche in adolescents, with a weak correlation level and a positive correlation. This means that adolescents who have high parental support have a higher preparedness for menarche.
BBSdb, an open resource for bacterial biofilm-associated proteins
Authors: Zhang Zhiyuan , Pan Yuanyuan , Hussain Wajid , Chen Guozhong , Li Erguang
Published: August 2024

Bacterial biofilms are organized heterogeneous assemblages of microbial cells encased within a self-produced matrix of exopolysaccharides, extracellular DNA and proteins. Over the last decade, more and more biofilm-associated proteins have been discovered and investigated. Furthermore, omics techniques such as transcriptomes, proteomes also play important roles in identifying new biofilm-associated genes or proteins. However, those important data have been uploaded separately to various databases, which creates obstacles for biofilm researchers to have a comprehensive access to these data. In this work, we constructed BBSdb, a state-of-the-art open resource of bacterial biofilm-associated protein. It includes 48 different bacteria species, 105 transcriptome datasets, 21 proteome datasets, 1205 experimental samples, 57,823 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), 13,605 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), 1,930 ‘Top 5% differentially expressed genes’, 444 ‘Threshold-based DEGs’ and a predictor for prediction of biofilm-associated protein. In addition, 1,781 biofilm-associated proteins, including annotation and sequences, were extracted from 942 articles and public databases via text-mining analysis. We used E. coli as an example to represent how to explore potential biofilm-associated proteins in bacteria. We believe that this study will be of broad interest to researchers in field of bacteria, especially biofilms, which are involved in bacterial growth, pathogenicity, and drug resistance.

Availability and implementation: The BBSdb is freely available at http://124.222.145.44/#!/.
Utilizing Q methodology to explore university students’ perceptions of the organic food industry: the integral role of social media
Authors: Nayak Swayangsiddha , Campbell Julie , Duffey Kate Cassity
Published: August 2024

The ascendancy of social media as a predominant source of information has underscored the imperative to grasp its impact on individuals’ perceptions and behaviors across diverse industries. In the realm of organic farming, which often sparks conflicting perspectives among stakeholders, the inundation of user-generated content presents a formidable challenge in discerning reliable sources from dubious ones. This phenomenon risks perpetuating misinformation, particularly among younger consumers, with uncertain implications for Agricultural Education and Communication. To address this void in understanding how social media influences perceptions of organic farming, a study was undertaken at the University of Georgia, utilizing Q methodology to delve into the perspectives of undergraduate and graduate students regarding organic food and farming practices. Complementing this approach, an offline survey questionnaire assessed their purchasing habits and media consumption patterns. Through the sorting of 41 statements encompassing themes such as health, socioeconomics, environment, ideological beliefs, and ethics, the study identified four distinct consumer typologies: “Dilettante Consumers,” “Decisive Consumers,” “Need-based Consumers,” and “Wandering Consumers.” Social media platforms such as Instagram and YouTube were identified as the primary information sources for young consumers seeking information about the organic farming industry. Source attractiveness and perceived trustworthiness were identified as major attributes contributing to the credibility of social media as an information source among these consumers. However, their reliance on source expertise remained debatable. Notably, the research also unveiled that students’ experiential learning facilitated a more nuanced understanding of various facets of the organic food industry. These findings emphasize the necessity for stakeholders to adapt to the digital age and remodel their communication strategies to better comprehend consumer perspectives and address prevailing knowledge gaps, particularly among the younger demographic.
Human Dignity Curriculum: Teachers’ comfort, commitment, and perceived support teaching a new socioemotional learning curriculum
Authors: Law Moira A.
Published: August 2024

Globally, young people are experiencing unprecedented levels of socio-emotional loneliness, stress, and uncertainty. Formulating insight into their own and others’ experiences and behaviors is especially important during unsettling times and can be facilitated with socioemotional learning (SEL) curriculums. When implementing SEL programs, their success heavily depends upon teachers’ levels of commitment and comfort with the curriculum, as well as their perceived support from the administration; this is important and rarely studied. The current phenomenological qualitative study examined teachers’ experience during the early implementation of a new SEL, the Human Dignity Curriculum, (HDC) with middle school students in two small schools in Canada and the United States of America. Semi-structured interviews, using a four-question protocol developed for this study, were conducted with teachers who had completed teaching a 10-week module, as well as both school administrators. Written informed consent was obtained from each volunteer interviewee. Participants were asked, (1) Tell me about your experience while teaching HDC; (2) what was your commitment level to teaching HDC? (3) What was your comfort level with teaching HDC? (4) Did you feel supported by your administration when preparing and teaching HDC? Inductive thematic analysis identified five themes indicating HDC was a (1) user-friendly, (2) high value curriculum; (3) teachers felt supported teaching it; and a (4) shared language, (5) and shared teacher-student experience evolved when teaching HDC. Future research to replicate this initial evaluation of teachers’ experience and exploration of HDC’s potential impacts on youths’ well-being and related behavioral outcomes appears warranted.
Effects of acute hypothyroidism on plasma melatonin and Aanat and Asmt expression in the pineal gland and gonads of rats
Authors: Paiva Rafaella Valete Nunes , Mondes Pedro Henrique de Lima , Brandão Beatriz de Jesus , Sant’Anna Julia Nascimento , Freire dos Santos Maria Eduarda , Fighera Yasmin Muniz , Santos Luciano Cardoso , Markus Regina P. , Fernandes Pedro Augusto Carlos Magno , Silva Juneo Freitas , Tamura Eduardo Koji
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The reproductive system is tightly regulated by environmental and physiological signals. Melatonin, known as the hormone of darkness, plays a crucial role in regulating both the circadian and reproductive systems in mammals. Hypothyroidism is a key endocrine disorder that harms the reproductive system. Despite many studies on melatonin’s effects on the reproductive system, there is conflicting information regarding melatonin synthesis modulation in hypothyroidism. The objective of this study was to investigate the modulation of plasma melatonin levels and gene expression of Aanat and Asmt in the pineal gland and gonads of rats with hypothyroidism at different times of the day.

Methods

Female and male Wistar rats were divided into control and hypothyroid groups. Hypothyroidism was induced using propylthiouracil (PTU) for 15 days, rats were euthanized six hours after lights on (ZT6), before lights off (ZT11.5), and six hours after lights off (ZT18). Free thyroxine (FT4) and melatonin were quantified in plasma, and gene expressions of melatonin synthesizing enzymes (Aanat and Asmt) were measured in pineal and sexual organs (testis and ovary). Also, morphological analysis was performed in sexual organs.

Results

The results reveal some disparities between the sexes. Hypothyroidism reduced antral and primary follicles in the ovary, and reduced the weight of testis, epididymis, and prostate. In relation to gene expression, we observed a reduction in Aanat expression in the pineal gland during the light phase (ZT6), and in males, this reduction occurred during the dark phase (ZT18). Regarding Asmt expression, there was a decrease in females also during the dark phase (ZT18). In the gonads, there was an increase in expression in both sexes at ZT11.5. Additionally, it was interesting to observe the association between FT4 levels and Asmt expression in the gonads.

Conclusions

This study showed that acute hypothyroidism can affect components of the melatonergic system in gonads, particularly gene expression of melatonin synthesis enzymes (Aanat and Asmt) contributing to changes in reproduction organs during disease progression. These findings enhance our understanding of melatonin synthesis in the reproductive system during hypothyroidism, showing distinct responses in male and female rats, and suggest that hypothyroidism affects the circadian rhythmicity of melatonin synthesis in a sex-dependent manner.
Abnormal late postprandial glucagon response in type 1 diabetes is a function of differences in stimulated C-peptide concentrations
Authors: Zhang Lingyu , Qin Yao , Huang Yiting , Hu Qizhen , Wu Qian , Wang Xing , Zhang Mei
Published: August 2024

Background

The functional changes in alpha cells in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) with different residual beta cell functions remain poorly elucidated. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between glucagon secretion and C-peptide levels and to explore the relationship between glucagon response and glucose increment in respond to a secretagogue in a steamed bread meal tolerance test (BMTT) in T1D.

Methods

The study enrolled 43 adult patients with T1D and 24 healthy control subjects. Patients with T1D who underwent BMTT were divided into two groups based on peak C-peptide levels: C peptide low (CPL; C-peptide < 200 pmol/L; n=14) and high (CPH; C peptide ≥ 200 pmol/L; n=29). Plasma glucose, C-peptide, glucagon levels at 0, 30, 60, 120, and 180 min were measured. The glucagon response to the BMTT was defined by areas under the curve (AUC) as early (AUC0-30), late (AUC30-180), or total (AUC0-180) glucagon.

Results

Compared to healthy individuals, fasting plasma glucagon was lower and postprandial plasma glucagon level was increased in patients with T1D. Glucagon levels after BMTT between the CPL and CPH group showed significant group by time interaction. Peak glucagon and glucagon at 60-180 min, total and late glucagon response were higher in CPL than CPH group, while fasting glucagon and early glucagon response adjusted for glucose were comparable between CPL and CPH group. The higher late glucagon response and late glucagon response adjusted for glucose were associated with lower peak C-peptide in T1D. The higher late glucagon response and lower peak C-peptide were associated with the higher value of ▵glucose at 180 min.

Conclusion

Stimulated C-peptide levels affect the paradoxical increase in postprandial glucagon secretion in patients with T1D, especially late glucagon response. The exaggerated postprandial glucagon secretion further stimulates the elevation of postprandial glucose in patients with T1D.
Body mass index is a barrier to obesity treatment
Authors: Chin Geoffrey C. , Potter Adam W. , Friedl Karl E.
Published: August 2024

The Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) obesity drug guidance is set on the basis of body mass index (BMI), with thresholds of either BMI ≥30 or BMI ≥27 kg/m2 with weight-related comorbidities. While BMI is associated with obesity-related health outcomes, there are known limitations to use as a direct measure of body fat or metabolic health, and the American Medical Association has highlighted limitations of BMI in assessing individual obesity risks. BMI thresholds impose a barrier to treatment. In a sample from the NHANES dataset (n=6,646 men and women), 36% of individuals with metabolic syndrome (MetS) may not be eligible for obesity pharmacotherapy. This analysis provides quantifiable justification for refinement of the BMI treatment criteria with a more holistic assessment of individual obesity-related disease risk.
Short-time photovoltaic output prediction method based on depthwise separable convolution Visual Geometry group- deep gate recurrent neural network
Authors: Zhang Lei , Zhao Shuang , Zhao Guanchao , Wang Lingyi , Liu Baolin , Na Zhimin , Liu Zhijian , Yu Zhongming , He Wei
Published: August 2024

In response to the issue of short-term fluctuations in photovoltaic (PV) output due to cloud movement, this paper proposes a method for forecasting short-term PV output based on a Depthwise Separable Convolution Visual Geometry Group (DSCVGG) and a Deep Gate Recurrent Neural Network (DGN). Initially, a cloud motion prediction model is constructed using a DSCVGG, which achieves edge recognition and motion prediction of clouds by replacing the previous convolution layer of the pooling layer in VGG with a depthwise separable convolution. Subsequently, the output results of the DSCVGG network, along with historical PV output data, are introduced into a Deep Gate Recurrent Unit Network (DGN) to establish a PV output prediction model, thereby achieving precise prediction of PV output. Through experiments on actual data, the Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Mean Squared Error (MSE) of our model are only 2.18% and 5.32 × 10−5, respectively, which validates the effectiveness, accuracy, and superiority of the proposed method. This provides new insights and methods for improving the stability of PV power generation.
Antenatal care service satisfaction and associated factors among pregnant women at public health facilities of Wogera district, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Belachew Asrat Kassaw , Debie Ayal , Geberu Demiss Mulatu , Dagnew Abinet , Bitew Gedamnesh , Dejene Tadesse Mamo , Walle Agmasie Damtew
Published: August 2024

Background

Pregnant women's satisfaction with Ante-Natal Care (ANC) is crucial for improving its quality and providing standardized healthcare services. However, studies on pregnant women's satisfaction with antenatal care and associated factors are limited in Ethiopia, particularly in the study area. Therefore, this study aimed to assess satisfaction and associated factors among pregnant women receiving antenatal care in Wogera district.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Wogera district from March to April 2024. A total of 458 pregnant women who attended ANC at health facilities were included in the study. Interviewer -administered structured questionnaire was used to obtain the necessary information for this study and systematic random sampling was used to select the study participants. Multivariable and binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the effect of each independent variable on the outcome (satisfaction).

Results

The overall satisfaction of antenatal care services among pregnant women was 92.1% (95% CI: 89.5, 94.5%). The majority (98.3%) of them were satisfied by the provider's greeting and 97.8% were satisfied by the cost of service but pregnant women were less satisfied by waiting time to see the health workers, cleanness of the toilet, and water supply. Satisfaction of pregnant women was associated with housewife occupational status [AOR = 3.05, 95% CI: 1.02, 9.15], civil servants occupational status [AOR = 4.02, 95% CI: 1.02, 15.85], age ≥25 [AOR = 2.78, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.74], advice on family planning [AOR = 7.29, 95% CI: 3.08, 17.05], one ANC visit [AOR = 3.61, 95% CI: 1.84, 8.74] and the respondents pregnant women who have ≥2 pregnancy [AOR = 4.55, 95% CI: 1.88, 11.03] were the predictors of level of satisfaction.

Conclusion

Pregnant women's satisfaction with antenatal care was high, influenced by factors such as having two or more pregnancies, timing of the first ANC visit, family planning advice, age ≥25 years, and being a housewife or civil servant. Efforts should focus on reducing wait times, ensuring clean water access, and improving latrine hygiene at healthcare facilities to sustain this satisfaction. Specifically, facilities should streamline appointments, maintain safe drinking water sources, and upgrade toilets for better comfort and hygiene.
Role of glycosylation-related gene MGAT1 in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Jiang Lai , Liu Jie , Zhang Shengke , Jiang Chenglu , Huang Jinbang , Chen Haiqing , Zhou Xuancheng , Fu Yiping , Yang Zhongqiu , Wang Rui , Yang Guanhu , Chi Hao , Li Bo
Published: August 2024

Background

pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is a malignant tumor with a very poor prognosis and a complex tumor microenvironment, which plays a key role in tumor progression and treatment resistance. Glycosylation plays an important role in processes such as cell signaling, immune response and protein stability.

Materials and methods

single-cell RNA sequencing data and spatial transcriptome data were obtained from GSE197177 and GSE224411, respectively, and RNA-seq data and survival information were obtained from UCSC Xena and TCGA. Multiple transcriptomic data were comprehensively analyzed to explore the role of glycosylation processes in tumor progression, and functional experiments were performed to assess the effects of MGAT1 overexpression on PDAC cell proliferation and migration.

Results

In PDAC tumor samples, the glycosylation level of macrophages was significantly higher than that of normal samples. MGAT1 was identified as a key glycosylation-related gene, and its high expression was associated with better patient prognosis. Overexpression of MGAT1 significantly inhibited the proliferation and migration of PDAC cells and affected intercellular interactions in the tumor microenvironment.

Conclusion

MGAT1 plays an important role in PDAC by regulating glycosylation levels in macrophages, influencing tumor progression and improving prognosis.MGAT1 is a potential therapeutic target for PDAC and further studies are needed to develop targeted therapeutic strategies against MGAT1 to improve clinical outcomes.
Attraction and avoidance of wild demersal fish and crustaceans to open-net aquaculture pens resolved by baited and towed underwater camera surveys
Authors: Dunlop Katherine , Strammer Ilona , Keeley Nigel
Published: August 2024

Wild gadoids are known to have close associations with open-net fish farms, leading to concerns about changes in natural fish distribution and feeding patterns. However, the nature of the relationships between non-pelagic fish and mobile benthic invertebrates and aquaculture facilities remains poorly documented, even though this group contains widespread commercial North Atlantic species. This study utilizes baited remote and towed underwater video surveys to resolve the ecosystem-level effects of open salmon aquaculture cages and organic enrichment on the spatial structure and relative abundance of demersal fish and crustacean communities. Towed camera surveys were carried out 50 to >600 m downstream of three farms producing finfish in Western Finnmark and four in the Frøya region of Norway. Towed camera surveys were paired with baited remote underwater video surveys at the four Frøya farms. The declining enrichment gradient with distance downstream of the farm cages was confirmed by modeled and observed depositional flux measurements and benthic infaunal community composition. The community structure of wild demersal fish and crustaceans in close association with the seafloor varied with the distance from the aquaculture sites. In addition to the established pattern of the attraction of gadoids, the edible crab (Cancer pagurus) and flatfish (Pleuronectes platessa and Microstomus kitt) showed a preference for areas 10–150 m from farm cages where organically enriched sediments contain a rich food source of opportunistic polychaetes. In contrast, the cuckoo wrasse (Labrus mixtus) and the common hermit crab (Pagurus bernhardus) exhibited higher numbers in locations over 600 m from the farms. Findings show how changes in the benthic food web from aquaculture enrichment can affect the spatial distribution of poorly studied but commercially important fish and crustaceans. Such changes in distribution can impact the availability of these species to coastal fisheries, especially in dense aquaculture regions.
A review of cold seeps in the Western Atlantic, focusing on Colombia and the Caribbean
Authors: Aguilar Pérez Maria Isabel , Zapata-Ramírez Paula A. , Micallef Aaron
Published: August 2024

Areas of the seafloor enriched with seeping fluids host unique chemosynthetic communities, and their interactions not only linked to the presence of oil and gas resources, but directly impact global geochemical cycles. These ecosystems can be found in diverse geological settings, spanning from passive to active continental margins, and encompass environments such as mid-ocean ridges, seamounts, cold brine lakes, mud volcanoes, and carbonate pinnacles. This review aims to examine seep environments in the Western Atlantic, the Caribbean, and Colombia, with a focus on understanding: I) their nature and origin, Itheir associated seabed characteristics, III) the biological communities directly connected to them, and IV) the chemistry and flow of the emitted fluids. The review identifies the close relationship of cold seeps to various geomorphological features, including linear diapir systems, salt diapirs resulting from salt tectonics, regions of mud volcanism, and compact seafloor mounds likely associated with buried mud diapirs. However, existing data on the fauna within these environments predominantly focus on megafauna, such as vestimentiferan tubeworms (Annelida), mussels, and vesicomyid bivalves (Mollusca), overlooking the crucial role of communities of small organisms, including fungi or macrofauna. This review highlights the absence of a consistent consensus among researchers regarding the factors controlling fauna distribution and presence in seep environments. Various authors have put forth divergent factors that influence seep community structures, with some emphasizing water depth, others the geological environment, and some the relationship with geomorphological conditions and fluid emissions. These findings underscore the need for further research into environmental factors and their roles in the observed distribution, presenting a promising avenue for future investigations.
Comparison of erythrocyte sedimentation rate measurement between Westergren method and automated method among patients attending Jigjiga University Sheik Hassen Yabare Referral Hospital, Jigjiga, Ethiopia
Authors: Walle Muluken , Alemayehu Ermiyas , Tesfaye Addisu , Arkew Mesay , Asmerom Haftu , Agidew Melaku Mekonnen , Getu Fasil
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a widely used screening test in clinical practice as an indicator of inflammatory and degenerative malignant diseases. The Westergren method, renowned as the gold standard, is valued for its accuracy and cost-effectiveness but demands considerable time and blood volume. Emerging automated methods offer quicker and more convenient alternatives, aiming to replace manual techniques. Nonetheless, validating these automated methods against the reference Westergren method is essential to ensure reliability. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate ESR measurement results obtained from both the reference Westergren method and the automated (SFRI ESR 3000) method.

Methods

A Hospital-based comparative cross-sectional study was conducted at Jigjiga University Sheik Hassen Yabare Referral Hospital from July 15 to September 16, 2023. Following the acquisition of informed consent, blood samples were obtained from 158 participants, five milliliters of blood from each participant. These samples were then subjected to ESR estimation using both the Westergren (reference) method and the automated (SFRI ESR 3000) method. Subsequently, the collected data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 and MedCalc version 12.3.0.0 statistical Softwares. Statistical analyses such as Paired t-tests, Pearson correlation, linear regression, and the Bland and Altman plot were employed. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The paired sample t-test analysis revealed no significant difference between the use of the reference Westergren method and the automated method for ESR determination, with a mean difference (MD) of 0.7 ± 9.2 mm/h (P = 0.36). Additionally, a significant correlation was observed between the two methods, with a remarkable correlation coefficient (r = 0.94, p < 0.001). The Bland–Altman data analysis indicated no evidence of systematic bias and demonstrated good agreement of ESR values between the two methods, with a limit of agreement of −17.3 to +18.7. Moreover, within-run imprecision analysis for the automated method across a range of ESR values showed coefficient of variation of 27.08, 12.65, and 10.32% for low, medium, and high ESR levels, respectively.

Conclusions

The SFRI ESR 300 automated method demonstrates the potential for interchangeable use with the Westergren method for determining ESR, given the strong correlation and good agreement. Additionally, the same reference range could be applied during interpretation.
Effects of humic electron mediators on reductive dechlorination of polychlorinated biphenyl by consortia enriched from terrestrial and marine environments
Authors: Wang Qiong , Zhang Dongdong , Li Xinkai , Wang Yi , Wang Heng , Zhang Zhichao , Song Wei , Guo Peng
Published: August 2024

Humic electron mediators can facilitate the reductive dehalogenation of organohalogenated compounds by accelerating electron transfer. To investigate the effect of humic electron mediators on the microbial anaerobic reductive dechlorination of Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), three types of humic electron mediators, humin (HM), humic acid (HA), and anthraquinone-2,6-disulfonic acid (AQDS, HA analogs), were added to PCB dechlorination cultures enriched from different sources in terrestrial and marine environments (T and M cultures). The results showed that meta- and para-site dechlorination occurred in the M culture, while only meta-site dechlorination occurred in the T culture. The dechlorination process N and the dechlorination process H or H′ are presented in both cultures. HM enhanced PCB dechlorination metabolic activity in both cultures mainly by promoting meta-site dechlorination. HA showed a weak promoting effect on the M culture by promoting para-chlorine removal but inhibited the dechlorination metabolism of the terrestrial-origin culture, inhibiting meta-chlorine removal. AQDS showed inhibitory effects on both cultures by inhibiting the microbial removal of meta-chlorine. High-throughput sequencing and qPCR results suggest that HM is not a carbon source for the potential dechlorinating metabolism of Dehalococcoides but may promote reductive dechlorination by changing the community structure, and AQDS may inhibit anaerobic reductive dechlorination of PCBs by inhibiting the growth of Dehalococcoides. This study provides insights into the mechanism of enhancing PCB microbial dechlorination mediated by humic substances and plays a significant role in extending the application prospects of PCBs bioremediation technology.
Innovative tree-based method for sampling molecular conformations: exploring the ATP-binding cassette subfamily D member 1 (ABCD1) transporter as a case study
Authors: Haschka Thomas , Lamari Foudil , Mochel Fanny , Zujovic Violetta
Published: August 2024

We introduce a novel tree-based method for visualizing molecular conformation sampling. Our method offers enhanced precision in highlighting conformational differences and facilitates the observation of local minimas within proteins fold space. The projection of empirical laboratory data on the tree allows us to create a link between protein conformations and disease relevant data. To demonstrate the efficacy of our approach, we applied it to the ATP-binding cassette subfamily D member 1 (ABCD1) transporter responsible for very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) import into peroxisomes. The genetic disorder called X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy (XALD) is characterized by the accumulation of VLCFA due to pathogenic variants in the ABCD1 gene. Using in silico molecular simulation, we examined the behavior of 16 prevalent mutations alongside the wild-type protein, exploring both inward and outward open forms of the transporter through molecular simulations. We evaluated from resulting trajectories the energy potential related to the ABCD1 interactions with ATP molecules. We categorized XALD patients based on the severity and progression of their disease, providing a unique clinical perspective. By integrating this data into our numerical framework, our study aimed to uncover the molecular underpinnings of XALD, offering new insights into disease progression. As we explored molecular trajectories and conformations resulting from our study, the tree-based method not only contributes valuable insights into XALD but also lays a solid foundation for forthcoming drug design studies. We advocate for the broader adoption of our innovative approach, proposing it as a valuable tool for researchers engaged in molecular simulation studies.
Reviewing migraine-associated pathophysiology and its impact on elevated stroke risk
Authors: Ravi Vikas , Osouli Meinagh Sima , Bavarsad Shahripour Reza
Published: August 2024

Migraine affects up to 20 percent of the global population and ranks as the second leading cause of disability worldwide. In parallel, ischemic stroke stands as the second leading cause of mortality and the third leading cause of disability worldwide. This review aims to elucidate the intricate relationship between migraine and stroke, highlighting the role of genetic, vascular, and hormonal factors. Epidemiological evidence shows a positive association between migraine, particularly with aura, and ischemic stroke (IS), though the link to hemorrhagic stroke (HS) remains inconclusive. The shared pathophysiology between migraine and stroke includes cortical spreading depression, endothelial dysfunction, and genetic predispositions, such as mutations linked to conditions like CADASIL and MELAS. Genetic studies indicate that common loci may predispose individuals to both migraine and stroke, while biomarkers such as endothelial microparticles and inflammatory cytokines offer insights into the underlying mechanisms. Additionally, hormonal influences, particularly fluctuations in estrogen levels, significantly impact migraine pathogenesis and stroke risk, highlighting the need for tailored interventions for women. The presence of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) in migraineurs further complicates their risk profile, with device closure showing promise in reducing stroke occurrence. Furthermore, white matter lesions (WMLs) are frequently observed in migraine patients, suggesting potential cognitive and stroke risks. This review hopes to summarize the links between migraine and its associated conditions and ischemic stroke, recognizing the profound implications for clinical management strategies for both disorders. Understanding the complex relationship between migraine and ischemic stroke holds the key to navigating treatment options and preventive interventions to enhance overall patient outcomes.
Cerebellar white and gray matter abnormalities in temporal lobe epilepsy: a voxel-based morphometry study
Authors: Chen Yini , Pan Jingyu , Lin Andong , Sun Lu , Li Yufei , Lin Hongsen , Pu Renwang , Wang Ying , Qi Yiwei , Sun Bo
Published: August 2024

Background

Previous structural neuroimaging studies linked cerebellar deficits to temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). The functions of various cerebellar regions are increasingly being valued, and their changes in TLE patients warrant further in-depth investigation. In this study, we used the Spatially Unbiased Infratentorial (SUIT) toolbox with a new template to evaluate the cerebellar structural abnormalities in patients with TLE, and further explored the relationship between the changes of different cerebellar regions and cognition.

Methods

Thirty-two patients with TLE were compared with 39 healthy controls (HC) matched according to age, gender, handedness, and education level. All participants underwent a high-resolution T1-weighted MRI scan on a 3.0 Tesla scanner. We used a voxel-based morphometry (VBM) approach utilizing the SUIT toolbox to provide an optimized and fine-grained exploration of cerebellar structural alterations associated with TLE.

Results

Compared with HC, TLE patients showed a significant reduction in the volume of gray matter in the Left lobule VI and white matter in the Right Crus II. In the TLE patient group, we conducted partial correlation analysis between the volumes of different cerebellar regions and cognitive rating scale scores, such as MMSE and MoCA. The volume of the Left lobule VI (GM) exhibited a positive correlation with the MMSE score, but no significant correlation was found with the MoCA score. Furthermore, it was observed that the MMSE was more effective than the MoCA in identifying epilepsy patients with cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

This study supported previous research indicating that temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is linked to structural changes in the cerebellum, specifically affecting the volume of gray matter. These findings offer valuable insights into the neurobiology of TLE and hold potential to inform the development of enhanced diagnostic methods and more effective treatment approaches.
Human reasoning on social interactions in ecological contexts: insights from the theory of mind brain circuits
Authors: Isernia Sara , Pirastru Alice , Rossetto Federica , Cacciatore Diego Michael , Cazzoli Marta , Blasi Valeria , Baksh R. Asaad , MacPherson Sarah E. , Baglio Francesca
Published: August 2024

Introduction

The relationship between neural social cognition patterns and performance on social cognition tasks in daily life is a topic of debate, with key consideration given to the extent to which theory of mind (ToM) brain circuits share properties reflecting everyday social functioning. To test the efficacy of ecological stimuli in eliciting brain activation within the ToM brain circuits, we adapted the Edinburgh Social Cognition test social scenarios, consisting of dynamic ecological contextually embedded social stimuli, to a fMRI paradigm.

Methods

Forty-two adults (21 men, mean age ± SD = 34.19 years ±12.57) were enrolled and underwent an fMRI assessment which consisted of a ToM task using the Edinburgh Social Cognition test scenarios. We used the same stimuli to prompt implicit (movie viewing) and explicit (silent and two-choice answers) reasoning on cognitive and affective mental states. The fMRI analysis was based on the classical random effect analysis. Group inferences were complemented with supplemental analyses using overlap maps to assess inter-subject variability.

Results

We found that explicit mentalizing reasoning yielded wide neural activations when two-choice answers were used. We also observed that the nature of ToM reasoning, that is, affective or cognitive, played a significant role in activating different neural circuits.

Discussion

The ESCoT stimuli were particularly effective in evoking ToM core neural underpinnings and elicited executive frontal loops. Future work may employ the task in a clinical setting to investigate ToM network reorganization and plasticity.
Neurodegenerative diseases and catechins: (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate is a modulator of chronic neuroinflammation and oxidative stress
Authors: Li Siying , Wang Zaoyi , Liu Gang , Chen Meixia
Published: August 2024

Catechins, a class of phytochemicals found in various fruits and tea leaves, have garnered attention for their diverse health-promoting properties, including their potential in combating neurodegenerative diseases. Among these catechins, (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the most abundant polyphenol in green tea, has emerged as a promising therapeutic agent due to its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Chronic neuroinflammation and oxidative stress are key pathological mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). EGCG has neuroprotective efficacy due to scavenging free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and attenuating neuroinflammatory processes. This review discusses the molecular mechanisms of EGCG’s anti-oxidative stress and chronic neuroinflammation, emphasizing its effects on autoimmune responses, neuroimmune system interactions, and focusing on the related effects on AD and PD. By elucidating EGCG’s mechanisms of action and its impact on neurodegenerative processes, this review underscores the potential of EGCG as a therapeutic intervention for AD, PD, and possibly other neurodegenerative diseases. Overall, EGCG emerges as a promising natural compound for combating chronic neuroinflammation and oxidative stress, offering novel avenues for neuroprotective strategies in the treatment of neurodegenerative disorders.
Case report: DKRd regimen in the treatment of newly diagnosed POEMS syndrome and literature review
Authors: Wang Jianchao , Liao Wensheng , Liu Zhongwen , Kong Dai
Published: August 2024

POEMS syndrome, characterized as a rare multisystem paraneoplastic syndrome, arises from plasma cell abnormalities. Coined by Bardwick in 1980, the acronym POEMS delineates the distinctive features of the syndrome: Peripheral nerve Lesions, Organomegaly, Endocrinopathy, Monoclonal gammopathy, and Skin changes. The prevalence of POEMS syndrome stands at approximately 0.3 per 100,000 individuals. Owing to its low prevalence and the paucity of prospective studies, current treatment approaches largely hinge on retrospective studies and revolve around the use of plasma cell-directed therapy typically used in multiple myeloma treatments. This article presents the pioneering case of utilizing a four-drug combination regimen of DKRd (daratumumab, carfilzomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone) as a first-line treatment. This is succeeded by induction therapy and subsequently, autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. A comprehensive review of related literature is conducted.
Metabolomic analysis of Agkistrodon haly venom poisoning mouse treatment by Jidesheng snake pill based on GC-MS
Authors: Luo Jie , Guo Minkang , Xie Ke , Han Ting-Li , Ai Shanmu
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Snakebites are acute systemic toxic diseases caused by snake venom entering the body through wounds. Failure to use antivenom immediately and difficulty in obtaining antivenoms are frequently responsible for worsening disease. Traditional Chinese medicine is commonly used to supplement and replace antivenom in treating snakebites. The Jidesheng snake pill (JDS) is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine that has achieved good clinical therapeutic effects; however, its mechanism remains unclear. Therefore, metabolomics techniques were employed to explore the pathophysiological mechanisms of JDS treatment of Agkistrodon halys (Ah) snake venom-poisoned mice.

Methods

The Ah group mouse model was established by intramuscular injection of Ah venom into the hind legs of the mice. The Ah venom + JDS group model was established using JDS after the affected area was treated with Ah venom. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining was used to evaluate the severity of gastrocnemius injury. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) was utilized to detect the mRNA expression of vascular cell adhesion molecule-1 (VCAM-1), muscle-specific creatine kinase (CKM), thrombin antithrombin complex (TAT), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) was performed with multivariate statistical analysis to provide new insights into the global metabolic profile of Ah venom-poisoned mice.

Results

HE staining revealed increased red cell necrosis, local hemorrhage, and neutrophil infiltration in the Ah venom group than in the control group. Several compounds were identified, including lipids, amino acids, peptides, and organooxygen. Eighty differential metabolites were screened between the control group and the Ah venom group, and 24 were screened between the Ah venom and JDS groups. The mechanism of Ah venom poisoning in mice may involve aminoacyl-tRNA biosynthesis, various amino acid metabolism disorders, tricarboxylic acid circulation disorders, and abnormal fatty acid metabolism. JDS may reduce symptoms by affecting long-chain fatty acid and amino acid metabolism and promoting nicotinamide-nicotinamide metabolism.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that metabolomics has huge prospects for elucidating the pathophysiology of Agkistrodon haly venom poisoning and therapeutic mechanisms of JDS.
The effect of convalescent plasma therapy on the rate of nucleic acid negative conversion in patients with persistent COVID-19 test positivity
Authors: Wang Yixuan , Xu Zhe , Xu Xue , Yang Shuwen , Li Yuanyuan , Zhang Hanwen , Zhang Yufeng , Wang Fu-Sheng , Wang Ying , Bi Jingfeng
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study investigates the association between convalescent plasma therapy and the negative conversion rate in patients with persistent COVID-19 test positivity.

Method

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with severe or mild to moderate COVID-19 whose viral nucleic acid tests remained positive for over 30 days. Patients were categorized into two groups: those who administered convalescent plasma therapy and those who were not. Data collected included information on therapy strategies used (convalescent plasma, corticosteroids, interferons, etc.), patients’ demographic characteristics, comorbidities, therapeutic medications, and nucleic acid testing results. Patients in the convalescent plasma therapy group were matched 1:2 ratio with those in the non-convalescent plasma therapy group. Cumulative negative conversion rates on the fifth, tenth, and fifteenth days post-therapy initiation were analyzed as dependent variables. Independent variables included therapy strategies, demographic characteristics, comorbidities, and therapeutic medication usage. Univariate analysis was conducted, and factors with a p-value (P) less than 0.2 were included in a paired Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference in the cumulative negative conversion rate between the convalescent plasma therapy group and the non-convalescent plasma therapy group on the fifth, tenth, and fifteenth days. Specifically, on day the fifth, the negative conversion rate was 41.46% in the convalescent plasma therapy group compared to 34.15% in the non-convalescent plasma therapy group (HR: 1.72, 95% CI: 0.82–3.61, P = 0.15). On the tenth day, it was 63.41% in the convalescent plasma therapy group and 63.41% in the non-convalescent plasma therapy group (HR: 1.25, 95% CI: 0.69∼2.26, P = 0.46). On the fifteenth day, the negative conversion rate was 85.37% in the convalescent plasma therapy group and 75.61% in the non-convalescent plasma therapy group (HR: 1.19, 95% CI: 0.71–1.97, P = 0.51).

Conclusion

Our finding does not support the hypothesis that convalescent plasma therapy could accelerate the time to negative conversion in patients who consistently test positive for COVID-19.