bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anti-Islet Autoantibodies in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Kawasaki Eiji
Published: May 2023

Anti-islet autoantibodies serve as key markers in immune-mediated type 1 diabetes (T1D) and slowly-progressive T1D (SPIDDM), also known as latent autoimmune diabetes in adults (LADA). Autoantibodies to insulin (IAA), glutamic acid decarboxylase (GADA), tyrosine phosphatase-like protein IA-2 (IA-2A), and zinc transporter 8 (ZnT8A) are currently employed in the diagnosis, pathological analysis, and prediction of T1D. GADA can also be detected in non-diabetic patients with autoimmune diseases other than T1D and may not necessarily reflect insulitis. Conversely, IA-2A and ZnT8A serve as surrogate markers of pancreatic β-cell destruction. Combinatorial analysis of these four anti-islet autoantibodies demonstrated that 93-96% of acute-onset T1D and SPIDDM cases were diagnosed as immune-mediated T1D, while the majority of fulminant T1D cases were autoantibody-negative. Evaluating the epitopes and immunoglobulin subclasses of anti-islet autoantibodies help distinguish between diabetes-associated and non-diabetes-associated autoantibodies and is valuable for predicting future insulin deficiency in SPIDDM (LADA) patients. Additionally, GADA in T1D patients with autoimmune thyroid disease reveals the polyclonal expansion of autoantibody epitopes and immunoglobulin subclasses. Recent advancements in anti-islet autoantibody assays include nonradioactive fluid-phase assays and the simultaneous determination of multiple biochemically defined autoantibodies. Developing a high-throughput assay for detecting epitope-specific or immunoglobulin isotype-specific autoantibodies will facilitate more accurate diagnosis and prediction of autoimmune disorders.
Characteristics of Extracellular Vesicles From an HGSOC Cell Line Derived From a Platinum-Resistant Patient as a Potential Tool for Aiding Prediction of Response to Chemotherapy
Authors: Černe Katarina , Kelhar Nuša , Resnik Nataša , Herzog Maruša , Vodnik Lana , Veranič Peter , Kobal Borut
Published: May 2023

Platinum-resistant high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSOC) is invariably a fatal disease, so a central goal in ovarian cancer research is to develop novel strategies to overcome platinum resistance. Treatment is thus moving towards personalized therapy. However, validated molecular biomarkers to predict patients’ risk of developing platinum resistance are still lacking. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are promising candidates for biomarkers. EpCAM-specific EVs are largely unexplored biomarkers in predicting chemoresistance. Using transmission electron microscopy, nanoparticle tracking analysis and flow cytometry, we compared the characteristics of EVs released from a cell line derived from a clinically confirmed cisplatin-resistant patient (OAW28) and EVs released from two cell lines from tumors sensitive to platinum-based chemotherapy (PEO1, OAW42). We showed that characteristics of EVs released from the HGSOC cell line of chemoresistant patients had higher heterogeneity in size, a larger proportion of medium/large (>200nm) EVs and a higher number of released EpCAM-positive EVs of different sizes, although expression of EpCAM predominated, especially on those larger than 400 nm. We also determined a strong positive correlation between the concentration of EpCAM-positive EVs and expression of cellular EpCAM. These results may contribute to prediction of platinum resistance in the future, although they should first be validated in clinical samples.
A Study of Gastric Fluid and Urine Metabolomics for the Prediction of Survival in Severe Prematurity
Authors: Besiri Konstantia , Begou Olga , Deda Olga , Bataka Evmorfia , Nakas Christos , Gika Helen , Kontou Angeliki , Agakidou Eleni , Sarafidis Kosmas
Published: May 2023

Prediction of survival in very preterm infants is very important in terms of clinical medicine and parent counseling. In this prospective study involving 96 very preterm infants, we evaluated whether metabolomic analysis of gastric fluid and urine samples obtained soon after birth could predict survival on days of life (DOL) 3 and 15 as well as overall survival up to hospital discharge. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) profiling was used. Uni- and multivariate statistical analyses were carried out to evaluate significant metabolites and their prognostic value. Differences in several metabolites were identified between survivors and non-survivors at the time-points of the study. Binary logistic regression showed that certain metabolites in the gastric fluid including arabitol as well as succinic, erythronic and threonic acids was associated with DOL 15 and overall survival. Gastric glyceric acid was also associated with DOL 15 survival. Urine glyceric acid could predict survival on DOL 3 and overall survival. In conclusion, non-surviving preterm infants showed a different metabolic profile compared survivors showing a significant discrimination with the use of GC-MS-based gastric fluid and urine analysis. Results of this study support the usefulness of metabolomics in developing survival biomarkers in very preterm infants.
Remote Sensing and Ecological Variables Related to Influenza a Prevalence and Subtype Diversity in Wild Birds in the Lluta Wetland of Northern Chile
Authors: Ruiz Soledad , Galdames Pablo , Baumberger Cecilia , Gonzalez María Antonieta , Rojas Camila , Oyarzun Cristobal , Orozco Katherinne , Mattar Cristian , Freiden Pamela , Sharp Bridgett , Schultz-Cherry Stacey , Hamilton-West Christopher , Jimenez-Bluhm Pedro
Published: May 2023

The Lluta River is the northernmost coastal wetland in Chile, representing a unique ecosystem and an important source of water in the extremely arid Atacama Desert. During peak season, the wetland is home to more than 150 species of wild birds and is the first stopover point for many migratory species that arrive in the country along the Pacific migratory route, representing a priority site for avian influenza virus (AIV) surveillance in Chile.
The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of influenza A virus (IAV) in the Lluta River wetland, to identify subtype diversity and to evaluate ecological and environmental factors that drive the prevalence at the study site. The wetland was studied and sampled from September 2015 to October 2020. In each visit, fresh fecal environmental samples (n = 178) of wild birds were collected for IAV detection by real-time RT-PCR. Furthermore, a count of wild birds present at the site was performed and environmental variables, such as temperature, rainfall, vegetation coverage (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index - NDVI) and water body size were determined. A generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) was built to assess the association between AIV prevalence and explanatory variables. Influenza positive samples were sequenced, and the host species was determined by barcoding.
Of the 4,349 samples screened during the study period, overall prevalence in the wetland was 2.07% (95% CI: 1.68 to 2.55) and monthly prevalence of AIV ranged widely from 0% to 8.6%. A great diversity of hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) subtypes were identified, and 10 viruses were isolated and sequenced, including low pathogenic H5, H7 and H9 strains. In addition, several reservoir species were recognized (both migratory and resident birds), including the newly identified host Chilean flamingo (Phoenicopterus chilensis). Regarding environmental variables, prevalence of AIV was positively associated with NDVI (OR=3.65, p<0.05) and with the abundance of migratory birds (OR=3.57, p<0.05). These results emphasize the importance of the Lluta wetland as a gateway to Chile for viruses that come from the Northern Hemisphere and contribute to the understanding of AIV ecological drivers.
Focus on the Most Common Paucisymptomatic Vasculopathic Population, from Diagnosis to Secondary Prevention of Complications
Authors: Martelli Eugenio , Enea Iolanda , Zamboni Matilde , Federici Massimo , Bracale Umberto M. , Sangiorgi Giuseppe , Martelli Allegra R. , Messina Teresa , Settembrini Alberto M.
Published: May 2023

Middle-aged adults can start to be affected by some arterial diseases, such as abdominal aortic or popliteal artery aneurysms, lower extremity arterial disease, internal carotid or renal artery or subclavian artery stenosis. These vasculopathies are often paucisymptomatic before manifesting themselves with dramatic complications. Therefore, early detection of peripheral artery disease (PAD) and aneurysmal disease is fundamental to reduce the risk of major adverse cardiovascular and limb events. Furthermore, PAD carries a high correlation with silent coronary artery disease (CAD). This study focuses on the most common PADs and aneurysmal diseases, in the attempt to summarize some key points which should selectively drive screen. Since it is evident how we are not in the human and economic possibilities to instrumentally screening wide populations, deep knowledge of semeiotics and careful anamnesis must play a central role in our daily activity as physician. The presence of some risk factors for atherosclerosis, or an already known history of CAD, can raise the clinical suspecion of PAD or aneurysmal disease after a careful clinical history and a deep physical examination. The clinical suspicion must then be confirmed by a first-level ultrasound investigation and, if so, adequate treatments can be adopted to prevent dreadful complications.
The Self-supporting NiMn-LDHs/rGO/Nf Composite Electrode Showing Much Enhanced Electrocatalytic Performance for Oxygen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wang Jia , Lian Yongfu
Published: May 2023

The poor conductivity and instability of layered dihydroxides (LDHs) limit their widespread application in oxygen evolution reaction (OER). In this study, the composite electrode of NiMn-LDHs, reduced graphene oxide (rGO) and nickel foam (NF), i.e., NiMn-LDHs/rGO/NF, was prepared by a hydrothermal method. When subjected to oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalytic performance in a solution of 1 M KOH, the NiMn-LDHs/rGO/NF composite catalyst exhibited an overpotential of only 140 mV at a current density of 10 mA cm-2 and a Tafel slope of 49 mV dec-1, which is not only better than the comparing RuO2/NF catalyst, but also better than most of the Mn-based and the Ni–Fe containing bimetallic OER catalysts reported in the literature. The excellent electrocatalytic performance is ascribed to the efficient integration of ultrathin NiMn-LDHs sheets, thin-layered rGO and NF, contributing a lot to the decrease in charge transfer resistance and the increase in electrochemically active surface area. Moreover, NF plays a role of current collector and a role of rigid support for the NiMn-LDHs/rGO composite, contributing extra conductivity and stability to the NiMn-LDHs/rGO/NF composite electrode.
Vaccinia Virus Strain Mva Expressing a Prefusion-Stabilized SARS-CoV-2 Spike Glycoprotein Induces Robust Protection and Prevents Brain Infection in Mouse and Hamster Models
Authors: Lorenzo María M , Marín-López Alejandro , Chiem Kevin , Jimenez-Cabello Luis , Ullah Irfan , Utrilla-Trigo Sergio , Calvo-Pinilla Eva , Lorenzo Gema , Moreno Sandra , Ye Chengjin , Park Jun-Gyu , Matía Alejandro , Brun Alejandro , Sánchez-Puig Juana M , Nogales Aitor , Mothes Walther , Uchil Pradeep D , Kumar Priti , Ortego Javier , Fikrig Erol , Martinez-Sobrido Luis , Blasco Rafael
Published: May 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the importance of swift responses and the necessity of dependable technologies for vaccine development. Our team previously developed a fast cloning system for the modified vaccinia virus Ankara (MVA) vaccine platform. In this study, we report the construction and preclinical testing of a recombinant MVA vaccine obtained using this system. We obtained recombinant MVA expressing the unmodified full-length SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein containing the D614G amino acid substitution (MVA-Sdg) and a version expressing a modified S protein containing amino acid substitutions designed to stabilize the protein a in a pre-fusion conformation (MVA-Spf). S protein expressed by MVA-Sdg was found to be expressed and correctly processed and transported to the cell surface, where it efficiently produced cell-cell fusion. Version Spf, however, was not proteolytically processed and despite being transported to the plasma membrane, it failed to induce cell-cell fusion. We assessed both vaccine candidates in prime-boost regimens in the susceptible transgenic K18-human angiotensin converting enzyme 2 (K18-hACE2) mice and in golden Syrian hamsters. Robust immunity and protection from disease was induced with either vaccine in both animal models. Remarkably, the MVA-Spf vaccine candidate produced higher levels of antibodies, a stronger T cell response, and a higher degree of protection from challenge. In addition, the levels of SARS-CoV-2 in the brain of MVA-Spf inoculated mice was decreased to undetectable levels. Those results add to our current experience and range of vaccine vectors and technologies for developing a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine
Rational Design of Multifunctional Ferulic Acid Derivatives Aimed for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases
Authors: Guzman-Lopez Eduardo Gabriel , Reina Miguel , Hernandez-Ayala Luis Felipe , Galano Annia
Published: May 2023

Ferulic acid has numerous beneficial effects for human health, which are frequently attributed to its antioxidant behavior. In this report many of them are reviewed and 185 new ferulic acid derivatives are computationally designed, using the CADMA-Chem protocol. For the later, the chemical space was sampled and evaluated. To that purpose selection and elimination scores were used, which are built from a set of descriptors accounting for ADME properties, toxicity, and synthetic accessibility. After the first screening, 12 derivatives were selected and further investigated. Their potential role as antioxidants was predicted from reactivity indexes, directed related with the formal hydrogen atom transfer and the single electron transfer mechanisms. The best performing molecules were identified by comparisons with the parent molecule and two references: Trolox and alpha-tocopherol. Their potential as polygenic neuroprotectors was investigated through the interactions with enzymes directed related with the etiologies of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. They are acetylcholinesterase, catechol-O-methyltransferase, and monoamine oxidase B. Based on the obtained results, the most promising candidates (FA-26, FA-118, and FA-138) are proposed as multifunctional antioxidants with potential neuroprotective effects. The findings derived from this investigation are encouraging and might promote further investigations on these molecules.
Separate Hydrolysis and Fermentation of Kitchen Waste Residues Using Multi-Enzyme Preparation from Aspergillus niger P-19 for Production of Biofertilizer Formulations
Authors: Sharma Apurav , Dogra Sakshi , Thakur Bishakha , Yadav Jyoti , Soni Raman , Soni Sanjeev Kumar
Published: May 2023

The study addresses the management of kitchen waste by transforming it into biofertilizer formulations utilizing an effective in-house developed multi-enzyme preparation. A separate hydrolysis and fermentation bioprocessing approach which in particular relates to the application of a separate enzyme preparation from Aspergillus niger P-19 to separately hydrolyze kitchen waste, followed by the growth of Klebsiella pneumoniae AP-407 in the liquid hydrolysate as well with simultaneous production of carrier-based biofertilizer. In liquid and carrier-based biofertilizers, the viable cell count reaches 3.00 × 1012 CFU/ml and 3.00 × 1012 CFU/g, respectively. The current study adopts a novel process technique for the manufacturing of both carrier and liquid biofertilizers, adopting a zero-waste approach to the management of kitchen waste.
Analysis of the Application of Tapping Box as an Effort to Monitor Restaurant Tax Revenue in Sukoharjo Regency
Authors: Noviyanti Afifah Mirna , Hanung Triatmoko  , Trisninik Ratih Wulandari  , Meka Sabilla Salim
Published: May 2023

This study aims at investigating the implementation of Tapping Box to monitor restaurant tax revenue, its effect, and its contribution to the Regional Original Revenue (Pendapatan Asli Daerah/PAD) in Sukoharjo Regency in 2018-2021, as well as the challenges and strategies in applying the Tapping Box to optimize the tax collection. This study was carried out using a descriptive, qualitative method. The data were gathered using interviews, observation, and literature review. The primary data were sourced from interviews while secondary data were obtained from the Regional Employment Agency (Badan Kepegawaian Daerah/BKD) of Sukoharjo Regency. The results of this study have indicated that the BKD of Sukoharjo Regency can realize a very high level of effectiveness. However, the Tapping Box application as an effort to monitor restaurant tax revenue has not been optimal so it has not given a significant contribution to the tax revenue. This study recommends that the BKD of Sukoharjo Regency carry out socialization and development programs, conduct tax gatherings, give rewards and sanctions, and increase the number of officers.
Performance Analysis of the Covid-19 Staple Food Social Assistance Activities Carried Out by the Office of Social Affairs of Karanganyar Regency in 2020 and 2021 using the Value for Money, Justice, and Equality Concepts
Authors: Handayani Kusumawardhani  , Sri Hantoro  , Labbaika Dwi Ayu Rahmawati
Published: May 2023

This study aims at examining the performance of the Covid-19 staple food social assistance activities carried out by The Office of Social Affairs of Karanganyar Regency in 2020 and 2021 using the value for money (effectiveness, efficiency, and economic aspects), justice, and equality approaches. The results of this study have revealed that the Covid-19 staple food social assistance activities by the Office of Social Affairs of Karanganyar Regency in 2020 and 2021 are effective, efficient, fair, and equal. However, the economic aspect is not taken into account in this study. Based on the results of the study, the researchers propose some recommendations. The effectiveness and efficiency level should be maintained and improved. At the economic level, calculations should not be necessary because this level is not a top priority and can only be affected by limited resources. The justice and equality level should be maintained and increased.
Evaluation of Account Receivables Management to Prevent Possible Company Losses as a Result of Uncollectible Accounts Receivables at PT Askrindo (Persero) of the Surakarta Branch Office
Authors: Azzahra Syafiya Syaebani  , Vidia Ayu Satyanovi  , Lina Nur Ardila  , Andy Supriyadi
Published: May 2023

This research was conducted at PT Askrindo (Persero) of the Surakarta Branch Office. This study aimed to investigate the management of accounts receivable and the implementation of the management of accounts receivable running within the company whether they are in accordance with the policies in force in the company. This study uses descriptive data analysis method. The results of this study indicate that the implementation of accounts receivable management at PT Askrindo (Persero) of the Surakarta Branch Office, which includes the recognition, recording, classification, and accounts receivable management policies, has not followed the guidelines for accounts receivable management business issued by the company. First, the implementation of the recognition of trade receivables is in accordance with the guidelines for managing accounts receivables, which are recognized after the issuance of an insurance certificate/policy. Second, the implementation of recording accounts receivable complies with the guidelines for managing accounts receivables, which are recorded using the Askrindo Financial Management System (FMS). Third, the implementation of the classification of accounts receivable is consistent with the guidelines for managing accounts receivable, namely by classifying current, non-current, and loss accounts receivables. Fourth, the implementation of the accounts receivable management policy does not follow the guidelines for managing accounts receivable. The company has not implemented several policies according to the guidelines in the company.
Relevansi Antara Hardiness dan Emotional Labor Pada Perawat Rumah Sakit Umum Daerah dr. Soegiri Kabupaten Lamongan
Authors: Badarul Ullah Bagas , Santi Budiani Meita
Published: May 2023

Salah satu indikator penentu mutu dari rumah sakit adalah pelayanan keperawatan. Penyesuaian tindakan, tingkah laku, ekspresi wajah perawat dalam melakukan pelayanan keperawatan ditempat kerja disebut dengan Emotional Labor. Hal ini akan berdampak pada psikologis dan lingkungan kerja. Namun, perawat dengan karakteristik tertentu akan mampu mencapai penyesuaian tindakan, tingkah laku, ekspresi wajah saat melakukan pekerjaannya tanpa menimbulkan dampak psikologis. Penelitian ini memiliki tujuan untuk mengetahui keterkaitan antara hardiness dengan emotional labor pada perawat di ruang rawat inap umum. Metode yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah kuantitatif. Jumlah populasi perawat ruang rawat inap umum sejumlah 114 perawat. Tryout skala berjumlah 30 perawat diambil dari 10 ruang keperawatan umum dengan persentase yang sama. Subjek yang digunakan pada penelitian ini terdiri dari 84 perawat. Instrumen pada skala emotional labor disusun berdasarkan aspek dari Hochschild (2012)., berjumlah 20 aitem. Sedangkan pada skala hardiness disusun berdasarkan aspek dari Stein & Bartone (2020)., berjumlah 18 aitem. Teknik analisis product moment digunakan untuk mengukur korelasi kedua variabel. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan korelasi signifikansi sebesar 0,000 (< 0,05). Berarti dapat disimpulkan bahwa terdapat keterkaitan antara hardiness dengan emotional labor pada perawat yang bekerja di ruang rawat inap RSUD dr. Soegiri Kabupaten Lamongan. Hal ini bisa terjadi karena Emotional labor perawat yang baik akan mampu mendorong peningkatan mutu pelayanan rumah sakit, namun dampak dari emotional labor ini akan mampu dikurangi apabila individu memiliki karakteristik hardiness dengan adanya commitment, control dan challenge.
Peran Kecerdasan Emosional Sebagai Mediator antara Mindfulnes dengan Motivasi Akademik Mahasiswa selama PJJ
Authors: Wilinda Noveni , Salim Rose Mini Agoes
Published: May 2023

Motivasi akademik merupakan salah satu faktor penting yang mendukung kesuksesan mahasiswa dalam kegiatan belajarnya. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji peran kecerdasan emosional sebagai mediator dalam hubungan antara mindfulness dengan motivasi akademik. Partisipan penelitian ini adalah 161 mahasiswa S1 dan S2 yang melakukan pembelajaran jarak jauh. Pengambilan data dilakukan dengan penyebaran kuesioner secara daring dan teknik sampling yang digunakan adalah convenience  sampling. Alat ukur yang digunakan adalah Academic Motivation Scale (AMS), Mindful Attention Awareness Scale (MAAS), dan Wong Law Emotional Intelligence Scale (WLEIS). Data yang diperoleh dianalisis secara kuantitatif menggunakan macro PROCESS v3.5 dari model 4 Hayes. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kecerdasan emosional berperan sebagai mediator pada hubungan antara mindfulness dengan motivasi akademik. Kesadaran mahasiswa pada keadaan “here and now” membuat mereka lebih dapat menyadari dan meregulasi emosinya sehingga mampu untuk dapat meningkatkan motivasi akademiknya. Implikasi dan saran untuk penelitian selanjutnya didiskusikan lebih lanjut.
Diversity in Orthopaedic Surgery Residencies Based on Allopathic Medical School Affiliation
Authors: Fierro Samir X. , Jardaly Achraf H. , Vatsia Sohrab K. , Williams Marshall D. , Taunton Jacob D. , Gruenberger Eric H. , Navarro Ronald A. , Mehran Nima , Ponce Brent A.
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

Orthopaedic surgery is one of the most competitive and least diverse specialties in medicine. Affiliation of an orthopaedics with an allopathic medical school impacts research opportunities and early exposure to clinical orthopaedics. The purpose of this study is to examine the potential effect allopathic medical school affiliation has on orthopaedic surgery resident demographics and academic characteristics.

Methods:

All 202 Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME)-accredited orthopaedics programs were divided into 2 groups: Group 1 consisted of residency programs without an affiliated allopathic medical school, and Group 2 consisted of programs with an affiliated allopathic medical school. Affiliations were determined by cross-referencing the ACGME residency program list with the medical school list published by Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC). Program and resident characteristics were then compiled using AAMC’s Residency Explorer including region, program setting, number of residents, and osteopathic recognition. Resident characteristics included race, gender, experiences (work, volunteer, and research), peer-reviewed publications, and US Medical Licensing Examination Step 1 scores.

Results:

Of the 202 ACGME-accredited orthopaedics residencies, Group 1 had 61 (30.2%) programs, and Group 2 had 141 (69.8%) programs. Group 2 had larger programs (4.9 vs. 3.2 resident positions/year; p < 0.001) and 1.7 times the number of residency applicants (655.8 vs. 385.5; p < 0.001). Most Group 2 residents were allopathic medical school graduates, 95.5%, compared with 41.6% in Group 1. Group 1 had 57.0% osteopathic medical school graduates, compared with 2.9% in Group 2. There were 6.1% more White residents in Group 1 residencies (p = 0.025), and Group 2 residencies consisted of 3.5% more Black residents in relation to Group 1 (p = 0.03). Academic performance metrics were comparable between the 2 groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion:

This study demonstrated that candidates who successfully match into an orthopaedic surgery residency program achieve high academic performance, regardless of whether the program was affiliated with an allopathic medical school. Differences may be influenced by increased representation of minority faculty, greater demand for allopathic residents, or stronger emphasis on promotion of diversity in those residency programs.

Availability of Data and Material:

Available on reasonable request.

Level of Evidence:

Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Ecological Resilience Evaluation of Chongming Island, Shanghai: Landscape Pattern-Process-PSR Model
Authors: Gou Aiping , Tan Guanzheng , Jiangbo Wang
Published: May 2023

Ecological resilience is a natural barrier for urban systems to cope with a series of problems brought by climate change and urbanization, which can also enhance regional ecological security. To improve the ecological resilience of Chongming Island, we explore the interrelationship between the government's construction orientations and its ecological resilience. Further evaluation reference for near-continental urbanized islands are provided. In this paper, the ecological resilience evaluation system, based on the landscape pattern-process-PSR (Pressure-State-Response) model, is constructed to evaluate the ecological resilience of Chongming Island by integrating landscape background quality, pressure factors, and anthropogenic response. The results show that Chongming's resilience score is divided into two stages. The first stage is the resilience weakening period from 1990 to 1999, except for a little increase from 0.3699 to 0.3979 between1990 and 1991, the left resilience score between 1991 to 1999 kept declining to the lowest0.2382 in 1999.The second stage is the resilience-building phase between 2000 and 2020, during which Chongming's resilience increased rapidly, with stagnation between 2011 and 2015, and high growth resumed after 2015. The findings suggest that the changes in ecological resilience in Chongming are closely related to government’s planning orientations.
Psychiatric Burden in a Large Cohort of Adults With Niemann Pick Type C Disease: From Psychotic Symptoms to Frontal Lobe Behavioral Disorders.
Authors: Morin Alexandre , Carle Guilhem , Ponchel Amelie , Fernandez-Eulate Gorka , Nadjar Yann
Published: May 2023

Objectives:
To describe Niemann-Pick type C (NPC) behavioral symptoms (focusing on psychotic symptoms) and its relation to frontal lobe functioning.
Methods:
We retrospectively reviewed medical charts of NPC-patients followed in the Lysosomal Diseases reference center in Paris Pitié-Salpêtrière.
We collected demographic data, psychiatric clinical manifestations, psychometric scales, and extended neuropsychological data including executive and behavioral frontal lobe functions evaluations.
Results:
Nineteen patients were included in the study with ten of them having experienced at least one acute psychotic episode, being inaugural for six of them.
Most of the patients suffered from behavioral (15/17) and cognitive disorders (18/19) (including executive dysfunction (11/12), apathy (13/17), impaired social cognition (11/13) and stereotyped behaviors (5/10)).
For five patients, quality of life was significantly impaired by these abnormal behaviors.
Concerning frontal neuropsychological evaluation, Facial emotion recognition was by far the most performed neuropsychological test (n=8) and the score was always abnormal.
It is noteworthy that psychotic symptoms were often drug resistant (8/9) and that Miglustat was associated with a better control of psychotic symptoms.
Conclusions:
We report a high frequency of psychiatric symptoms in NP-C encompassing acute psychotic manifestations, presenting often early in the course of the disease with atypical features. We also report disabling behavioral manifestations related to frontal dysfunction.
Optimization of grazing hour for indigenous sheep of southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh
Authors: Imrose Sabrina , Islam Sarder Safiqul , Islam Shafiqul , Sun Minhazul Abedin
Published: May 2023

The southwest coastal region of Bangladesh is at the forefront of climate change impacts. Among other components of coastal ecosystems in southwestern Bangladesh, sheep are also under threat from the effects of climate change. Therefore, the experiment was conducted to optimize the grazing time of indigenous coastal sheep in the southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh. Twenty female sheep were divided into five treatment groups before first lambing aged between 4 to 6 months and randomly allowed five different grazing periods. The experimental design was based on a randomized complete block design (RCBD). The grazing hours allocated to the five treatment groups were 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 hours respectively. All groups of sheep were allowed to graze from 6 am to 6 pm. During this period, sheep in the special treatment group were housed when their allotted grazing period ended. All relevant information was regularly recorded in a registrar. Results showed that sheep body weight increased with increasing grazing time but the mean difference did not differ significantly. In most cases, the maximum body weight was observed in sheep grazed for 10 hours per day. The average growth rate of sheep at third and ninth weights varied significantly (p < 0.01) between sheep groups grazed 4, 6, 8, 10 and 12 hours. At third weight, the highest growth rate (g d− 1) was 87.50 for sheep graze 10 h, followed by 12 (68.83), 8 (60.17), 6 (57.67), and 4 (39.00) hours of grazing respectively. It can be concluded that body weight and growth rate of native sheep increased with increase in grazing time. However, 10 hours of grazing meets the requirements for their maintenance and growth due to good pasture quality.
Identifying barriers and facilitators along the Hepatitis C care cascade to inform human-centered design of contextualized treatment protocols for vulnerable populations in Austin, Texas: a qualitative study
Authors: Desai Anmol , O’Neal Lauren , Reinis Kia , Brown Cristal , Stefanowicz Michael , Kuang Audrey , Agrawal Deepak , Bhavnani Darlene , Mercer Tim
Published: May 2023

Background Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of liver-related mortality and morbidity. Despite effective direct acting antivirals and a simplified treatment algorithm, limited access to HCV treatment in vulnerable populations, including people experiencing homelessness (PEH) and people who inject drugs (PWID), hinders global elimination. Adapting the evidence-based, simplified HCV treatment algorithm to the organizational and contextual realities of non-traditional clinic settings serving vulnerable populations can help overcome specific barriers to HCV care. The Erase Hep C study aimed to identify barriers and facilitators specific to these vulnerable populations to design the site-specific, simplified treatment protocols.Methods Forty-two semi-structured qualitative interviews, guided by the Practical, Robust Implementation and Suitability Model (PRISM) framework, were conducted with clinic staff, community-based organizations providing screening and linkage to care, and patients diagnosed with HCV, to identify contextual barriers and facilitators to treatment at a local community health center’s Health Care for the Homeless program in Austin, Texas. Audio-recorded interviews were systematically analyzed using thematic analysis informed by the PRISM framework and design thinking, to anchor barriers and facilitators along the HCV care cascade. Findings were fed into human-centered design workshops to co-design, with clinic staff, site-specific, simplified HCV treatment protocols.Results The specific needs of PEH and PWID patient populations informed barriers and facilitators of HCV care. Barriers included tracking patients who miss critical appointments or labs, medication access and adherence, and patient HCV knowledge. Clinical teams leveraged existing facilitators and incorporated solutions to barriers into clinic workflows to improve care coordination and medication access. Actionable solutions included augmenting existing staff roles, employing HCV care navigation throughout the cascade, and standardizing medication adherence counseling.Conclusions Clinic staff identified HCV care facilitators to leverage, and designed actionable solutions to address barriers, to incorporate into site-specific treatment protocols to improve patient HCV outcomes. Methods used to incorporate staff and patient experiential knowledge into the design of contextualized treatment protocols in non-traditional clinic settings could serve as a model for future implementation research. The next phase of the study is protocol implementation and patient enrollment into a single-arm trial to achieve HCV cure.
Would the Kalimantan Islands of Indonesia be secure against droughts and forest fires in a changing climate?
Authors: Heo Sujung , Park Sangjin , Lee Dong Kun
Published: May 2023

Numerous natural disasters that threaten people's lives and property occur in Indonesia. Climate change-induced temperature increases are expected to affect the frequency of natural hazards in the future and pose more risks. This study examines the consequences of droughts and forest fires on the Indonesian island of Kalimantan. We first create maps showing the eleven contributing factors that have the greatest impact on forest fires and droughts related to the climate, topography, anthropogenic, and vegetation. Next, we used RF to create single and multi-risk maps for forest fires and droughts in Kalimantan Island. Finally, using the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) integrated evaluation model, a future climate scenario was applied to predict multiple risk maps for RCP-SSP2-4.5 and RCP-SSP5-8.5 in 2040–2059 and 2080–2099. The probability of a 22.6% drought and a 21.7% forest fire were anticipated to have an influence on the study's findings, and 2.6% of the sites looked at were predicted to be affected by both hazards. Both RCP-SSP2-4.5 and RCP-SSP5-8.5 have an increase in these hazards projected for them. Researchers and stakeholders may use these findings to assess risks under various mitigation strategies and estimate the spatial behavior of such forest fire and drought occurrences.
Efficient Resource Allocation Algorithm for D2D Communication in 5G Wireless Networks
Authors: Gopal Malle , T Velmurugan
Published: May 2023

Device-to-device (D2D) communication is a leading technology to improve spectral efficiency and needed data rates in 5G networks. It brings down the offload traffic rate too in advanced network communications that employ wireless techniques. In this work, a novel Hungarian-based joint uplink-downlink resource allocating method is explained for realizing optimized network throughput. It considers the Quality of Service of the D2D clients and cellular users (CUs). Specifically, the proposed technique allows the device clients to reuse the resource provisions of CUs at the instant of either downlink or uplink. Formulation of optimizing problems is done as a mixed integer non-linear programming language generally called NP-hard (non-polynomial time hardness). The issue is addressed in a couple of different stages. The first stage is assigning Sub Channel (SC) and the second stage is Power Allocation (PA). This verifies the performance of the SC assignment and PA with network throughput, the maximum transmission power of CUs, D2D, BS as well as distancing from one to another to be the parameters of prime concern. The Hungarian method in the proposal is a converging optimizing answer in polynomial time. Finally, the results are compared with the existing joint uplink-downlink resource allocation (JUDRA) techniques.
A biphenotypic lymphocyte subset displays both T- and B-cell functionalities
Authors: Wan Yanmin , Zhang Yifan , Guo Cuiyuan , Zhou Yigong , Wang Wanhai , Zhu Zhaoqin
Published: May 2023

T cell/B cell mixed phenotypic lymphocytes have been observed in different disease contexts, yet their presence and function in physiological conditions remain elusive. Here, we provide evidence for the existence of a lymphocyte subset endogenously expressing both T- and B-cell lineage markers in mice. These CD3+CD19+ lymphocytes show an origin of pro/pre B cells and distribute widely in mouse bone marrow, lymph nodes, spleen, and peripheral blood. Functional assays show that these biphenotypic lymphocytes can be activated through stimulating TCR or BCR signaling pathways. Moreover, we show that these cells actively participate both the humoral and cellular immune responses elicited by vaccination. Compared to conventional T cells, these biphenotypic lymphocytes can secrete a higher level of IL-2 but a lower level of TNF-α upon antigen specific stimulation. An equivalent lymphocyte subset is found in freshly isolated human PBMCs and exhibits similar functionality, albeit at a lower frequency than in mice.
A new scaffold-free tumoroid model provides a robust preclinical tool to investigate invasion and drug response in Renal Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Filhol Odile , Séraudie Irinka , Pillet Catherine , Cesana Beatrice , Bazelle Pauline , Jeanneret Florian , Evrard Bertrand , Chalmel Frederic , Bouzit Assilah , Long Jean-Alexandre , Descotes Jean-Luc , Cochet Claude , Battail Christophe
Published: May 2023

Clear cell Renal Cell Carcinoma (ccRCC) is one of the most prevalent kidney cancers, which is often asymptomatic and thus discovered at a metastatic state (mRCC). mRCC are highly heterogeneous tumors composed of subclonal populations that lead to poor treatment response rate. Several recent works explored the potential of ccRCC tumoroids culture derived from patients. However, these models were produced following a scaffold-based method using collagen I or Matrigel that exhibit lot variability and whose complexity could induce treatment response modifications and phenotypic alterations. Following the observation that ccRCC tumoroids can create their own niche by secreting extracellular matrix components, we developed the first scaffold-free tumoroid model of ccRCC tumors. Tumoroids from mice as well as from human tumors were generated with high success rate (≥90 %) using a magnetic suspension method and standard culture media. Immunofluorescence analysis revealed their self-organization capacities to maintain multiple tumor-resident cell types, including endothelial progenitor cells. Transcriptomic analysis showed the reproducibility of the method highlighting that the majority of gene expression patternswas conserved in tumoroids compared to their matching tumor tissue. Moreover, this model enables to evaluate drug effects and invasiveness of renal cancer cells in a 3D context, providing a robust preclinical tool for drug screening and biomarker assessment in line with alternative ex vivo methods like tumor tissue slice culture or in vivoxenograft models.
A novel in situ gelling probiotic microparticle formulation as a healing dressing for infectious burn wounds using QbD principles
Authors: Moraffah Fatemeh , Samadi Nasrin , Abdollahi Mohammad , Dolatabadi Roshanak , Pirouzzadeh Maryam , Vatanara Alireza
Published: May 2023

Researchers have studied probiotic-containing dressings to tackle burn injury concerns like infection and microbial resistance. The current study looked into the effects of novel probiotic-loaded microparticles with in situ gelling properties on infectious burn wounds. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum was chosen as a strain with proven wound-healing properties. Then, a formulation was developed to stabilize and maintain probiotic growth potential. To avoid shedding from wounds, only polymers with rapid moisture absorption were employed. The spray-drying method stabilized the formulation by reducing its water content. The optimal formulation was determined by studying how spray-drying inlet temperature, polymer type, and concentration affected probiotic viability, process yield, swelling ratio, and rheological properties of the particles. The morphological analyses revealed particles with substantial exchangeable surface areas. The formulation's rheological characteristics indicated its thermal and mechanical resistance. Also, the FTIR and DCS spectra proved interlinking between polymers. A comparison of the growth curves of formulated and unformulated probiotics demonstrated an increase in lag time and a steady growth rate. Examination of the formula's efficacy against common wound pathogens confirmed its antibacterial properties. Animal experiments revealed that the optimal microparticles for all criteria outperformed the control groups and were more effective against Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Burn wound infection management would be enhanced by the proposed delivery system's simple administration and prohibition of normal flora transmission.
Non-catalytic oxidation mechanism of industrial soot at high temperature
Authors: Wang Fuchen , Gao Ming , Jiang Yongjun , Ding Lu , Gao Yunfei , Dai Sheng , Dai Zhenghua , Yu Guangsuo , Yang Wenming
Published: May 2023

The elimination of soot is particularly crucial in the pursuit of reducing pollutant emissions and achieving a circular economy. The generation of soot is a significant challenge in industries. The most effective approach to eliminate soot is to oxidize it in the high-temperature furnace. In this study, soot with different properties was produced the by non-catalytic partial oxidation process at high temperatures. The real-time oxidation processes of soot nanoparticles at 900°C were studied by in situ transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The industrial soot performs various oxidation models. The corresponding mathematical expressions of different oxidation models were developed. The incipient soot of shrinking core model (SCM) has a faster reaction rate than the partially matured soot of internal oxidation model (IOM) and the mature soot of SCM. A rare core-shell separation model (CSM) was studied. The nanostructures of soot in different oxidation models were characterized, and the relationship between macroscopic properties and nanostructures was established by Raman results and lattice fringe analysis, effective in the prediction of soot oxidation behavior.
Effect on Cardiac function in digestive system’s cancer with or without acute kidney injury patients using a non-invasive assessment of impedance cardiography: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chen Huihui , Zhang Guolei , He Lei , Zhou Wei , Zhang Shenglei , Niu Zhezhe , JIN Jingjing , Cheng Mei , Guo Liping , Liang Xiangnan , Zhu Rong fang , Zhang Huiran , Bai Yaling , Xu Jin sheng
Published: May 2023

Objectives
This study’s objective was to explore the possibility of clinical evaluation of digestive system’s cancer with or without AKI patients’ cardiac function measured by impedance cardiography (ICG, Bioz. Cardio Dynamics, USA); then, try to analyze the possible reason of cardiac function changing, and to approach the independent risk factors for it.
Methods
Patients who were admitted to the Fourth hospital of Hebei Medical University, China between May 1st, 2019 and February 15th, 2022 were involved. A total of 51 patients with digestive system’s cancer with AKI or without AKI (31 men and 20 women, mean age 61.1 ± 10.9 year) were evaluated to routine ICG. Of the total, 19 patients were assessed to both ultrasound cardiography (UCG) and ICG.
Result
There were significant positive correlation with the cardiac function parameters, such as cardiac output (CO), cardiac index (CI), stroke volume (SV), left cardiac work index (LCWI) and ejection fraction (EF), measured by ICG and UCG. The relationship was observed between COICG and COUCG (r = 0.707, P = 0.001); CIICG and CIUCG (r = 0.718, P = 0.001); SVICG and SVUCG (r = 0.837, P < 0.001); LCWIICG and EFUCG (r = 0.540, P = 0.017). The cardiac function parameters measured by ICG were statistically significant between cancer with AKI and without AKI patients (P < 0.05). A multivariate analysis revealed that AKI had independent effects on digestive system’s cancer patients’ cardiac function.
Conclusions
ICG and UCG methods were significant positive correlation with the cardiac function of digestive system’s cancer patients with or without AKI; the cardiac function of digestive system’s cancer with AKI was worse than that of without AKI patients; AKI was the independent risk factor for cardiac function in digestive system’s cancer patients.
Rac1 activation in oral squamous cell carcinoma as a predictive factor associated with lymph node metastasis
Authors: Yamazaki Masae , Sekikawa Shoichi , Suzuki Taiki , Ogane Satoru , Hashimoto Kazuhiko , Sasaki Aya , Nomura Takeshi
Published: May 2023

Objectives Secondary lymph node metastasis (SLNM) indicates a poor prognosis, and limiting it can improve the survival rate in early-stage tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC). Many factors have been identified as predictors of SLNM; however, there is no unified view. Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1 (Rac1) was found to be a promoter of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and is also attracting attention as a new therapeutic target. This study aims to investigate the role of Rac1 in metastasis and its relationship with pathological findings in early-stage TSCC.Materials and Methods Rac1 expression levels of 69 cases of stage I/II TSCC specimens and their association with clinicopathological characteristics were evaluated by immunohistochemical staining. The role of Rac1 in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) was examined after Rac1 in OSCC cell lines was silenced in vitro.Results High Rac1 expression was significantly associated with the depth of invasion (DOI), tumor budding (TB), vascular invasion, and SLNM (p < 0.05). Univariate analyses revealed that Rac1 expression, DOI, and TB were factors significantly associated with SLNM (p < 0.05). Moreover, our multivariate analysis suggested that Rac1 expression was the only independent determinant of SLNM. An in vitro study revealed that Rac1 downregulation tended to decrease cell migration and proliferation.Conclusion Rac1 was suggested to be an important factor in the metastasis of OSCC, and it could be useful as a predictor of SLNM.