bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Енергетична ефективність удосконаленої технології вирощуванняміскантусу гігантського для отримання біомаси
Authors: Дековець В.О. , Кулик М.І.
Published: September 2023

Залучення до використання альтернативних джерел енергії наразі є актуальним питанням для України.Враховуючи значні площі маргінальних земель танаявні енергетичні культури, цілком можливо підвищитиенергонезалежність територіальних громад нашої країни. При цьому важливим є удосконалення технологіївирощування енергетичних культур, в т. ч. і міскантусугігантського, як однієї із високопродуктивних енергокультур. Що дозволить отримувати сталу врожайністьбіомаси (енергоємна сировина для біопалив) за енергоефективної технології вирощування, та збільшитиенергопродуктивність виробництва біомаси рослин.Саме вивченню цих питань і присвячена дана публікація. Метою досліджень було встановлення врожайності, енергетичної ефективності удосконаленої технологіївирощування міскантусу гігантського та енергопродуктивності біомаси. Методи. Експеримент проведено протягом 2018–2022 років в умовах центральної частиниЛісостепу України. Застосовували загальноприйнятіта спеціальні методи дослідження. Варіанти досліду поєднували: варіант 1 (контроль) – звичайна технологіявирощування міскантусу гігантського; варіант 2 – удосконалена технологія вирощування міскантусу гігантського.Звичайна технологія вирощування міскантусу поєднувала: основний і весняний обробіток ґрунту, висаджування ризом та догляд за рослинами. Удосконаленняданої технології, окрім перелічених заходів, містила:висаджування культури за найбільш оптимальною схемою, вирощування культури сумісно з люпином в міжряддях та позакоренева обробка мікоризним препаратом(Мікофренд) навесні. Результати. За результати досліджень встановлено, що врожайність сухої біомаси будесуттєво більшою на варіантах удосконаленої технологіявирощування міскантусу гігантського (20,7 т/га) порівняно із звичайною (11,8 т/га). Окрім цього визначенощорічне збільшення врожаю біомаси – від першого потретій рік вегетації на обох варіантах досліду, але з істотною перевагою на 2 варіанті. Встановлено коефіцієнтенергетичної ефективності вирощування міскантусугігантського на біопаливо на 2 варіанті (Кее = 4,5), щона 1,1 пункт перевищує 1 варіант (Кее = 3,4). Визначено,що у середньому за роки дослідження найбільша енергопродуктивність біомаси міскантусу формується засумісного вирощування з люпином та застосуванняМікофренду для підживлення енергонасаджень (удосконалена технологія вирощування культури) – на рівні82,5 ГДж/га. Висновки. Для збільшення врожайності таенергопродуктивності біомаси міскантусу гігантськогорекомендовано застосовувати удосконалену технологію вирощування культури. Що передбачає: основнийі весняний обробіток ґрунту, висаджування ризом занайбільш оптимальною схемою (70 × 70 см), вирощування міскантусу сумісно з люпином та позакореневаобробка мікоризним препаратом (Мікофренд) у весняному підживленні. При цьому, порівняно із звичайноютехнологією вирощування відмічено: зростання врожайності сухої біомаси (до 20,7 т/га), збільшення енергетичної ефективності (Кее = 4,5) та енергопродуктивностінасаджень (до 82,5 ГДж/га).
Вплив підживлення азотними добривами на елементи структуриурожаю та продуктивність ячменю ярого
Authors: Паламарчук В.Д. , Колісник О.М.
Published: September 2023

Мета досліджень: провести оцінку продуктивностірізних сортів ячменю ярого в умовах господарства тавстановити оптимальні дози азотних добрив для підживлення. Методи досліджень: лабораторний, польовий, лабораторно-польовий математично-статистичний. Зміна клімату, дефіцит органічних добрив та високавартість мінеральних ще раз підтверджує важливістьпитання оптимального живлення рослин ячменю ярого.Дослідження вивчення ефективності азотного підживлення для формування високої продуктивності ячменюярого проводились протягом 2021–2022 рр. в умовахТОВ «Органік-Д» на сірих лісових, середньо-суглинкових ґрунтах, із слабо кислою реакцією ґрунтовогорозчину. У дослідженнях використовували середньо-стиглі сорти ячменю ярого вітчизняної селекції Лофант,Гетьман, Вакула та Геліос. Результати досліджень.Нами встановлено, що внесення азотних добрив істотновпливає на формування елементів структури врожаюта продуктивності досліджуваних сортів ячменю ярого.Характеристика елементів структури врожаю, таких яккількість зерен у колосі та маса 1000 зерен залежитьвід біологічних особливостей сортів, умов вирощуваннята застосування підживлень азотними добривами.Найбільше значення маси 1000 зерен відмічено на варіанті із внесення азотних добрив нормою 60 кг. д.р. у фазукущення ячменю ярого – Лофант – 42,1 г, Гетьман – 41,8 г,Вакула – 41,0 г та Геліос – 42,5 г. Кількість зерен у колосідосліджуваних сортів ячменю ярого у середньому задва роки склала у Лофант – 20,9 шт., Гетьман – 21,0 шт.,Вакула – 22,0 шт. та Геліос – 23,4 шт. Застосування підживлення азотними добривами у нормі N35 забезпечилозростання кількості зерен у колосі на 1,0 шт., 1,1 шт.,1,1 та 2,3 шт., у нормі N45 на – 1,6 шт., 2,9 шт., 2,5 та4,4 шт., а у нормі N60 на – 2,5 шт., 3,8 шт., 4,2 та 5,8 шт.,порівняно із контрольним варіантом (без підживлень).Висновки. Отже, застосування азотного підживленняна посівах ячменю ярого дозволяє поліпшити комплексгосподарсько-цінних ознак та суттєво збільшити урожайність. Найбільший приріст урожайності зерна (1,96 т/га)досліджуваних сортів ячменю ярого порівняно із контролем (без підживлень) отримано на варіанті із застосуванням підживлення азотними добривами нормою 60 кгд.р. на 1 га. Рівень урожайності досліджуваних сортівна даному варіанті удобрення, в середньому за два роки досліджень склав Лофант – 3,85 т/га, Гетьман –4,78 т/га, Вакула – 4,62 т/га та Геліос – 4,84 т/га.
Результаты изучения микротвердости на границе «армирующая лента – композит»
Authors: Новак Н.В. , Старовойтова В.С.
Published: September 2023

Волоконные шинирующие конструкции представляют собой комбинацию элементов, совокупная клиническая эффективность применения которых зависит от свойств каждого компонента в отдельности, от характера возникающих между ними связей. Проведенные исследования доказали, что армирование с применением лент позволяет увеличить модуль упругости и прочность на изгиб адгезивной шинирующей конструкции, а ее разрушение чаще всего происходит вдоль границы соединения шинирующей ленты и композиционного материала.
Цель исследования. Изучить показатели микротвердости на границе «армирующая лента – композит», определить оптимальную толщину слоя композиционного материала, покрывающего ленту.
Объекты и методы исследования. 10 групп по 10 образцов шинирующих конструкций с различными по химическому составу армирующими лентами, 8 из которых выполнены с использованием лент на основе неорганической матрицы, 2 – на основе органической; 2 группы по 10 образцов в каждой с различной толщиной слоя композиционного материала, покрывающего армирующую ленту: 0,2 мм, 0,3 мм, 0,4 мм, 0,6 мм.
Результаты исследования и их обсуждение. Среди исследуемых шинирующих конструкций наименьший показатель микротвердости был у группы образцов на основе органической матрицы и составил 49,76 кгс/мм2, наибольший – у образцов группы на основе неорганической матрицы – 72,74 кгс/мм2. Наибольшие показатели микротвердости отмечены для образцов лент как на основе стекловолокна, так и полиэтилена с максимальной толщиной слоя композиционного материала, равной 0,6 мм, и составили 74,86 кгс/мм2 и 56,28 кгс/мм2 соответственно. При этом микротвердость шлифов с толщиной композита 0,2 мм была наименьшей у образцов на основе органической матрицы и варьировалась от 39,98 кгс/мм2 до 42,36 кгс/мм2 при среднем значении 40,96 ± 1,03 кгс/мм2.
Заключение. Толщина слоя композиционного материала, покрывающего армирующую ленту, при изготовлении шинирующих конструкций влияет на устойчивость шины к механическому воздействию, что является принципиальным для армирующих лент на основе органической матрицы (полиэтилен) и незначительно для лент на основе неорганической матрицы (стекловолокна). Высокая микротвердость и незначительная зависимость от толщины покрывающего слоя композиционного материала могут расширить показания к клиническому использованию лент на основе неорганической матрицы (стекловолокна).
РЕПРЕЗЕНТАЦІЯ ЕМОЦІЙ УКРАЇНСЬКИМИ КОРИСТУВАЧАМИ СОЦІАЛЬНИХ МЕРЕЖ ЗА ДОПОМОГОЮ КОНЦЕПТУ ВІЙНА
Authors: Храбан Т.
Published: September 2023

У статті за допомогою концепту ВІЙНА визначено особливості репрезентації емоцій українськими користувачами соціальних мереж на початок 2023 року. Доведено, що концепт ВІЙНА завжди інтегрує різноманітні емоційні смисли, але в період війни росії проти України відносна вага цих смислів різниться від інших історичних періодів завдяки особливому психоемоційному стану особистості та суспільства, що є знаковим представленням нації.
GENDER DIFFERENTIATION OF EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE IN THE POSTWAR PERIOD: THE IMPACT OF MILITARY EXPERIENCE ON THE RESTORATION OF THE SOCIAL ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Kyvliuk О.
Published: September 2023

The article analyses how gender roles, including those related to military experience, affect emotional intelligence and the restoration of the social environment after the war. The relationship between military experience and gender roles in everyday life is considered, and the impact of this relationship on the prospects for further post-war socialisation is determined.
Successful Pregnancy in a Patient with Ebstein’s Anomaly: A Rare Case Report
Authors: Sharmin Most Arifa , Begum Firoza
Published: September 2023

Ebstein’s anomaly, a rare congenital heart disease, occurring in 1 in 20,000 live births. The leaflets are placed deeper into the right ventricle instead of the normal position. Pregnancy however is well tolerated and the maternal risks of pregnancy co-relates well with the degree of tricuspid regurgitation, right ventricular function and presence of cyanosis. Aim is to emphasize the meticulous follow-up with fetal & maternal medicine specialist with multidisciplinary approach can give a successful outcome. Proper diagnosis and meticulous follow-up with good ANC have made this case, pregnancy with Ebstein’s anomaly successful.  
Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2022; Vol. 37(1): 68-70
Review on Early Ovarian Carcinoma using Radiomics
Authors: Sheela SN , Chandrappa DN
Published: September 2023

Ovarian cancer remains one of the deadliest gynecological malignancies in the world, despite major advances in chemotherapy and surgery. This, according to several research, is related to the considerable heterogeneity in treatment response and prognosis. Mostly, computational approaches for assessing tumour heterogeneity have been developed, which employ medical imaging and radio genomes to look at the whole tumour heterogeneity rather than just a single biopsy sample. This tumoral heterogeneity is not taken into consideration by standard imaging utilising CT or MRI, especially in late stages of peritoneal carcinomatosis. As a result, medical imaging has been recommended as a new field in the assessment of tumour heterogeneity, rather than single biopsy sample, to evaluate the entire tumour burden heterogeneity. In medical imaging there are four basic steps involved for an efficient and accurate detection of ovarian cancer at early stage. This review discusses about the detail evaluation on the various four phases involved in Medical imaging. Thus the review brings out a detail evaluation of Medical imaging undertaken at every stage of processing.

Bangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2022; Vol. 37(1): 39-46
Load countervail access for spectrum management in wireless sensor networks following Industry 4.0
Authors: Uddin Md Kabir , Khan M Kamrul Alam , Sobhan MA , Ahmed Farruk , Nabi MN
Published: September 2023

Attention to the utmost spectrum administration is to ease interference between different operators and to eliminate potential blockings possibility and occupy time slots for the spectrum users of wireless sensor networks. To stop the difficulties, the load countervail access (LCA) algorithm is a given idea that can simply resolve the reciprocal intervention. The effective and efficient practice of the attained frequency spectrum to be smooth and equal dispensation in a reallocation manner, given their specific QoS basics, is agile by the application (LCA). It lets us find the initially licensed spectrum which is unused and released as soon as required. The authors’ aim following the paper, is the total allocation of the estimated resources of the curse wireless spectrum among more intrusive operators that function in a similar comfortable zone of environment coverage to create equality with the given application (LCA) from the water-filling model.
Bangladesh J. Sci. Ind. Res. 58(3), 173-178, 2023
Farmacología experimental
Authors: Vargas Mamani Juan José
Published: September 2023

En este artículo de revisión se exploran aspectos poco conocidos de los orígenes de la farmacología experimental: la contribución de Rudolph Buchheim como padre de la farmacología experimental, al aportar los conceptos y métodos científicos en la explicación del modo de acción de los fármacos; el origen del kimógrafo; los paralelismos en la evolución de la farmacología experimental y su relación con la fisiología; el descubrimiento de la transmisión química del impulso nervioso, y el descubrimiento de la rata albina, como el primer animal de laboratorio con fines experimentales. Se concluye que la farmacología experimental se nutrió de la fisiología y otras ciencias conexas para posteriormente independizarse con el tiempo.
Activation of Lactate Receptor Positively Regulates Skeletal Muscle Mass in Mice
Authors: Ohno Y , Nakatani M , Ito T , Matsui Y , Ando K , Suda Y , Ohashi K , Yokoyama S , Goto K
Published: September 2023

G protein-coupled receptor 81 (GPR81), a selective receptor for lactate, expresses in skeletal muscle cells, but the physiological role of GPR81 in skeletal muscle has not been fully elucidated. As it has been reported that the lactate administration induces muscle hypertrophy, the stimulation of GPR81 has been suggested to mediate muscle hypertrophy. To clarify the contribution of GPR81 activation in skeletal muscle hypertrophy, in the present study, we investigated the effect of GPR81 agonist administration on skeletal muscle mass in mice. Male C57BL/6J mice were randomly divided into control group and GPR81 agonist-administered group that received oral administration of the specific GPR81 agonist 3-Chloro-5-hydroxybenzoic acid (CHBA). In both fast-twitch plantaris and slow-twitch soleus muscles of mice, the protein expression of GPR81 was observed. Oral administration of CHBA to mice significantly increased absolute muscle weight and muscle weight relative to body weight in the two muscles. Moreover, both absolute and relative muscle protein content in the two muscles were significantly increased by CHBA administration. CHBA administration also significantly upregulated the phosphorylation level of p42/44 extracellular signal-regulated kinase-1/2 (ERK1/2) and p90 ribosomal S6 kinase (p90RSK). These observations suggest that activation of GRP81 stimulates increased the mass of two types of skeletal muscle in mice in vivo. Lactate receptor GPR81 may positively affect skeletal muscle mass through activation of ERK pathway.
Substitusi Media Tanam Eceng Gondok (Eichornia Crassipes) Terhadap Pertumbuhan Dan Hasil Produksi Tanaman Tomat (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) Pada Polybag
Authors: Aulia Wahyu Redha , Irhasyuarna Yudha Irhasyuarna , Sauqina Sauqina
Published: September 2023

Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk mempelajari pemanfaatan substitusi media tanam eceng gondok (Eichornia crassipes) terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil produksi tanaman tomat serta untuk mengetahui komposisi optimal pemanfaatan tersebut. Bagian rancangan menggunakan rancangan acak lengkap (RAL) sebanyak 4 perlakuan dan 3 kali pengulangan atau berjumlah 12 unit percobaan. Subjek penelitian ini yaitu media tanam eceng gondok (Eichornia crassipes) dan objek penelitian ini adalah tanaman tomat (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Parameter pengamatan dalam penelitian ini adalah tinggi tanaman, jumlah daun, jumlah buah per tanaman, dan berat per buah. Pengumpulan data dalam penelitian ini dilakukan dengan pengamatan langsung pada parameter lapangan: tinggi tanaman, jumlah daun, jumlah buah per tanaman, dan bobot per buah. Data dianalisis menggunakan ANOVA (Analysis Of Variance) dengan SPSS 16. Hasil uji ANOVA menunjukkan bahwa tidak ada perbedaan yang signifikan antara kelompok perlakuan dan kelompok kontrol. Namun, diantara tanaman lain, pada perlakuan M2 (2,1 kg tanah pupuk + 0,4 kg eceng gondok) memberikan hasil dengan jumlah daun terbanyak, sedangkan perlakuan M3 (2,2 kg tanah pupuk + 0,3 kg eceng gondok) memberikan hasil rata-rata tinggi tanaman, jumlah buah per tanaman, dan berat per buah yang terbaik.
QUR’AN EXEGESIS ON MARRIAGE COUPLES' EQUALITY (KAFA'AH) IN THE FOUR MADHHABS' FIQH PERSPECTIVES
Authors: Amin Habibi Al
Published: September 2023

This research aims to explain the position of equality or kafa'ah in determining bride and groom candidates according to Islamic law. This research is a normative juridical research literature. The data of this research is the book fiqh four mazhab 'Abd al-Rahman al-Jaziri, al-Fiqh ala Madhahib al-Arba'ah, Cairo: Dar al-Hadith, 2004, and books, books, legal dictionaries, Islamic law journals about kafaah. This study concludes that the Fiqh of the four madhhabs differ from each other in addressing the effects caused by the law of kafa'ah, but all madhhabs agree that kafa'ah is not a determinant of validity but as an element of considerationKeywords: Kid custody, log out of Islam, fiqh, Compilation of Islamic law.
A Historical Exit-Based Cash Flow Approach to Valuing pre-revenue Direct-Air-Capture (DAC) Start-Ups
Authors: Sinha Arnab
Published: September 2023

Valuing early-stage, pre-revenue companies, particularly those in the nascent field of Direct Air Capture (DAC), is a formidable challenge. These companies often find themselves in pre-pilot, pre-revenue stages, making traditional valuation methods less applicable. However, this paper presents a pioneering valuation methodology tailored to address this challenge. Drawing inspiration from the remarkable exit event of a 15-year-old startup in the same industry, we illuminate a path for valuing early-stage DAC companies. By leveraging this historical reference, we navigate the complexities of assessing potential value in a landscape dominated by pre-revenue startups, offering a vital tool for stakeholders, investors, and enthusiasts seeking to understand the promise of this emerging field. It is important to note that this analysis serves as a starting point for further valuation exploration, recognizing that the dynamic nature of startups may require ongoing assessments and adjustments.
A PERSPECTIVA DOS/AS MUSICOTERAPEUTAS E ALUNOS/AS SOBRE A RELAÇÃO TERAPÊUTICA: CENTRALIZADO NO SUJEITO.
Authors: Albuquerque Majori Machado , Beggiato Sheila Maria
Published: September 2023

RESUMO - A proposta deste estudo é refletir acerca da relação terapêutica no contexto musicoterapêutico e compreender como musicoterapeutas e estudantes de musicoterapia alicerçam e constroem um repertório de ações, intervenções e interações em processos musicoterapêuticos que estão se iniciando. Metodologicamente a pesquisa se constituiu em uma revisão bibliográfica e uma pesquisa de campo, com a utilização de um questionário online. A Análise Temática de Braun e Clarke (2006) foi a fundamentação para a análise dos dados. Teoricamente o trabalho se sustentará com alguns aportes da abordagem humanista de Carl Roger e com autores da Musicoterapia, como Bruscia, Aigen, Brian Abrams e Barcellos. Os resultados indicam que a musicoterapia se constitui e se constrói dentro de uma relação terapêutica em cinco categorias que foram denominadas de CIPI: "C" , representa a temática Centrada no Sujeito; "I "representa a interatividade; "P" a proficiência e "I" ia integralidade. A função do/a musicoterapeuta é a mediação a partir das experiências musicais, ajudando o participante a alcançar as possibilidades de mudanças desejadas.
Mechanical properties of trabeculae and osteocyte morphology change significantly in different areas of the necrotic femoral head
Authors: He Min-Cong , Tian Jia-Qing , He Xiao-Ming , Yang Peng , Lin Tian-Ye , Zhang Qing-Wen , He Wei , Wei Qiu-Shi
Published: September 2023

Background: Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is a complex hip ailment. The precise changes in bone tissue during the disease’s onset remain unclear. It is vital to assess both the quantity and quality of the trabecular state in a necrotic femoral head.

Aim: This study aims to identify and compare the ultrastructural changes in osteocyte morphology and nanomechanical characteristics within various regions of necrotic femoral heads.

Methods: Between December 2016 and May 2023, we gathered ten necrotic femoral heads from patients and five femoral heads from cadavers. The samples from the necrotic femoral heads were categorized into three areas: necrotic, sclerotic, and normal. Our assessment methods encompassed hematoxylin and eosin staining, sclerostin (SOST) immunohistochemistry, micro-computed tomography, nanoindentation, and acid-etched scanning electron microscopy. These techniques enabled us to examine the SOST expression, trabecular microstructure, micromechanical properties of trabeculae, and modifications in osteocyte morphology at the ultrastructural level.

Results: The protein level of SOST was found to be lower in the sclerotic area. In the necrotic area, decreased values of bone volume fraction, trabecular thickness, and trabecular number and an increased value of trabecular separation were found. Conversely, in the sclerotic area, higher mean values of bone volume fraction, trabecular number, and trabecular thickness and lower trabecular separation indicated significant changes in the structural characteristics of trabeculae. Compared with the healthy area, the elastic modulus and hardness in the sclerotic area were significantly higher than those in the necrotic, normal, and control areas, while those in necrotic areas were significantly lower than those in the healthy area. The number of osteocytes tended to increase in the sclerotic area with more canalicular cells compared to the healthy area and control group.

Conclusion: These results imply that the stress distribution within the sclerotic area could potentially lead to enhanced trabecular quality and quantity. This effect is also reflected in the increased count of osteocytes and their canaliculars. It is plausible that the sclerotic trabecular bone plays a pivotal role in the repair of necrotic femoral heads.
Endothelial SARS-CoV-2 infection is not the underlying cause of COVID-19-associated vascular pathology in mice
Authors: Gao Siqi , Tang Alan T. , Wang Min , Buchholz David W. , Imbiakha Brian , Yang Jisheng , Chen Xiaowen , Hewins Peter , Mericko-Ishizuka Patricia , Leu N. Adrian , Sterling Stephanie , August Avery , Jurado Kellie A. , Morrisey Edward E. , Aguilar-Carreno Hector , Kahn Mark L.
Published: September 2023

Endothelial damage and vascular pathology have been recognized as major features of COVID-19 since the beginning of the pandemic. Two main theories regarding how severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) damages endothelial cells and causes vascular pathology have been proposed: direct viral infection of endothelial cells or indirect damage mediated by circulating inflammatory molecules and immune mechanisms. However, these proposed mechanisms remain largely untested in vivo. In the present study, we utilized a set of new mouse genetic tools developed in our lab to test both the necessity and sufficiency of endothelial human angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) in COVID-19 pathogenesis. Our results demonstrate that endothelial ACE2 and direct infection of vascular endothelial cells do not contribute significantly to the diverse vascular pathology associated with COVID-19.
Digital outpatient health solutions as a vehicle to improve healthcare sustainability—a United Kingdom focused policy and practice perspective
Authors: Brown Matthew R. D. , Knight Matthew , Peters Christopher J. , Maleki Simin , Motavalli Ali , Nedjat-Shokouhi Bahman
Published: September 2023

Introduction

In the midst of a global climate emergency and with health care systems across the world facing extreme pressure, interest in digital approaches as a potential part-solution to these challenges has increased rapidly. The evidence base to support the role that digitalization can play in moving towards more sustainable models of healthcare is growing, as is the awareness of this key area of healthcare reform amongst policy makers, clinicians and the public.

Method and Results

In this policy and practice review we explore four domains of healthcare sustainability-environmental, economic, and patient and clinician, delineating the potential impact that digitally enabled healthcare can have on each area. Real-world examples are provided to illustrate the impact individual digital interventions can have on each pillar of sustainability and demonstrate the scale of the potential benefits which can be achieved.

Discussion

Digitally enabled healthcare solutions present an approach which offer numerous benefits, including environmental sustainability, economic benefits, and improved patient experience. There are also potential drawbacks such as the risk of digital exclusion and the need for integration with existing technology platforms. Overall, it is essential to strike a balance between the benefits and potential drawbacks of digital healthcare solutions to ensure that they are equitable, effective, and sustainable.
Reversing and modulating cellular senescence in beta cells, a new field of opportunities to treat diabetes
Authors: Rubin de Celis Maria F. , Bonner-Weir Susan
Published: September 2023

Diabetes constitutes a world-wide pandemic that requires searching for new treatments to halt its progression. Cellular senescence of pancreatic beta cells has been described as a major contributor to development and worsening of diabetes. The concept of reversibility of cellular senescence is critical as is the timing to take actions against this “dormant” senescent state. The reversal of cellular senescence can be considered as rejuvenation of the specific cell if it returns to the original “healthy state” and doesn’t behave aberrantly as seen in some cancer cells. In rodents, treatment with senolytics and senomorphics blunted or prevented disease progression, however their use carry drawbacks. Modulators of cellular senescence is a new area of research that seeks to reverse the senescence. More research in each of these modalities should lead to new treatments to stop diabetes development and progression.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of metagenomic next-generation sequencing for diagnosing tuberculous meningitis
Authors: Xiang Zheng-Bing , Leng Er-Ling , Cao Wen-Feng , Liu Shi-Min , Zhou Yong-Liang , Luo Chao-Qun , Hu Fan , Wen An
Published: September 2023

Objective

The utility of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) in the diagnosis of tuberculous meningitis (TBM) remains uncertain. We performed a meta-analysis to comprehensively evaluate its diagnostic accuracy for the early diagnosis of TBM.

Methods

English (PubMed, Medline, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and Embase) and Chinese (CNKI, Wanfang, and CBM) databases were searched for relevant studies assessing the diagnostic accuracy of mNGS for TBM. Review Manager was used to evaluate the quality of the included studies, and Stata was used to perform the statistical analysis.

Results

Of 495 relevant articles retrieved, eight studies involving 693 participants (348 with and 345 without TBM) met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, positive likelihood ratio, negative likelihood ratio, diagnostic odds ratio, and area under the summary receiver-operating characteristic curve of mNGS for diagnosing TBM were 62% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.46–0.76), 99% (95% CI: 0.94–1.00), 139.08 (95% CI: 8.54–2266), 0.38 (95% CI: 0.25–0.58), 364.89 (95% CI: 18.39–7239), and 0.97 (95% CI: 0.95–0.98), respectively.

Conclusions

mNGS showed good specificity but moderate sensitivity; therefore, a more sensitive test should be developed to assist in the diagnosis of TBM.
Persistence is key: unresolved immune dysfunction is lethal in both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 sepsis
Authors: An Andy Y. , Baghela Arjun , Zhang Peter , Falsafi Reza , Lee Amy H. , Trahtemberg Uriel , Baker Andrew J. , Santos Claudia C. dos , Hancock Robert E. W.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Severe COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 pulmonary sepsis share pathophysiological, immunological, and clinical features, suggesting that severe COVID-19 is a form of viral sepsis. Our objective was to identify shared gene expression trajectories strongly associated with eventual mortality between severe COVID-19 patients and contemporaneous non-COVID-19 sepsis patients in the intensive care unit (ICU) for potential therapeutic implications.

Methods

Whole blood was drawn from 20 COVID-19 patients and 22 non-COVID-19 adult sepsis patients at two timepoints: ICU admission and approximately a week later. RNA-Seq was performed on whole blood to identify differentially expressed genes and significantly enriched pathways. Using systems biology methods, drug candidates targeting key genes in the pathophysiology of COVID-19 and sepsis were identified.

Results

When compared to survivors, non-survivors (irrespective of COVID-19 status) had 3.6-fold more “persistent” genes (genes that stayed up/downregulated at both timepoints) (4,289 vs. 1,186 genes); these included persistently downregulated genes in T-cell signaling and persistently upregulated genes in select innate immune and metabolic pathways, indicating unresolved immune dysfunction in non-survivors, while resolution of these processes occurred in survivors. These findings of persistence were further confirmed using two publicly available datasets of COVID-19 and sepsis patients. Systems biology methods identified multiple immunomodulatory drug candidates that could target this persistent immune dysfunction, which could be repurposed for possible therapeutic use in both COVID-19 and sepsis.

Discussion

Transcriptional evidence of persistent immune dysfunction was associated with 28-day mortality in both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 septic patients. These findings highlight the opportunity for mitigating common mechanisms of immune dysfunction with immunomodulatory therapies for both diseases.
Integrative single-cell transcriptomic investigation unveils long non-coding RNAs associated with localized cellular inflammation in psoriasis
Authors: Gao Yuge , Na Mengxue , Yao Xinyu , Li Chao , Li Li , Yang Guangyu , Li Yuzhen , Hu Yizhou
Published: September 2023

Psoriasis is a complex, chronic autoimmune disorder predominantly affecting the skin. Accumulating evidence underscores the critical role of localized cellular inflammation in the development and persistence of psoriatic skin lesions, involving cell types such as keratinocytes, mesenchymal cells, and Schwann cells. However, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unexplored. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), known to regulate gene expression across various cellular processes, have been particularly implicated in immune regulation. We utilized our neural-network learning pipeline to integrate 106,675 cells from healthy human skin and 79,887 cells from psoriatic human skin. This formed the most extensive cell transcriptomic atlas of human psoriatic skin to date. The robustness of our reclassified cell-types, representing full-layer zonation in human skin, was affirmed through neural-network learning-based cross-validation. We then developed a publicly available website to present this integrated dataset. We carried out analysis for differentially expressed lncRNAs, co-regulated gene patterns, and GO-bioprocess enrichment, enabling us to pinpoint lncRNAs that modulate localized cellular inflammation in psoriasis at the single-cell level. Subsequent experimental validation with skin cell lines and primary cells from psoriatic skin confirmed these lncRNAs’ functional role in localized cellular inflammation. Our study provides a comprehensive cell transcriptomic atlas of full-layer human skin in both healthy and psoriatic conditions, unveiling a new regulatory mechanism that governs localized cellular inflammation in psoriasis and highlights the therapeutic potential of lncRNAs in this disease’s management.
The preferred growth orientation of Ti thin film on MgO(100) substrate
Authors: Yang Jun , Baco Saturi , Jin Yongzhong , Shu Yi , Fang Yong , Moh Pak Yan
Published: September 2023

Understanding the preferred growth orientation of metal films is of great significance for optimizing film properties and preparing films with special structures. However, early works mainly focused on the preferred growth orientations of FCC and BCC metal films, the preferred growth orientation of HCP metal films and its formation mechanism are unclear. In this work, Ti film was deposited on MgO(100) substrate by magnetron sputtering at 523 K. The preferred growth orientation of Ti film and its formation mechanism were studied by experiment and first-principles calculation. XRD results found the preferred growth orientations of Ti film on MgO(100) substrate were Ti(001), Ti(100), and Ti(101), with Ti(001) being the most favored. First-principles calculation results showed the preferred growth orientation of the Ti film on the MgO(100) substrate was determined by a combination of interface separation work and lattice strain.
oFVSD: a Python package of optimized forward variable selection decoder for high-dimensional neuroimaging data
Authors: Dang Tung , Fermin Alan S. R. , Machizawa Maro G.
Published: September 2023

The complexity and high dimensionality of neuroimaging data pose problems for decoding information with machine learning (ML) models because the number of features is often much larger than the number of observations. Feature selection is one of the crucial steps for determining meaningful target features in decoding; however, optimizing the feature selection from such high-dimensional neuroimaging data has been challenging using conventional ML models. Here, we introduce an efficient and high-performance decoding package incorporating a forward variable selection (FVS) algorithm and hyper-parameter optimization that automatically identifies the best feature pairs for both classification and regression models, where a total of 18 ML models are implemented by default. First, the FVS algorithm evaluates the goodness-of-fit across different models using the k-fold cross-validation step that identifies the best subset of features based on a predefined criterion for each model. Next, the hyperparameters of each ML model are optimized at each forward iteration. Final outputs highlight an optimized number of selected features (brain regions of interest) for each model with its accuracy. Furthermore, the toolbox can be executed in a parallel environment for efficient computation on a typical personal computer. With the optimized forward variable selection decoder (oFVSD) pipeline, we verified the effectiveness of decoding sex classification and age range regression on 1,113 structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) datasets. Compared to ML models without the FVS algorithm and with the Boruta algorithm as a variable selection counterpart, we demonstrate that the oFVSD significantly outperformed across all of the ML models over the counterpart models without FVS (approximately 0.20 increase in correlation coefficient, r, with regression models and 8% increase in classification models on average) and with Boruta variable selection algorithm (approximately 0.07 improvement in regression and 4% in classification models). Furthermore, we confirmed the use of parallel computation considerably reduced the computational burden for the high-dimensional MRI data. Altogether, the oFVSD toolbox efficiently and effectively improves the performance of both classification and regression ML models, providing a use case example on MRI datasets. With its flexibility, oFVSD has the potential for many other modalities in neuroimaging. This open-source and freely available Python package makes it a valuable toolbox for research communities seeking improved decoding accuracy.
Probing the potential of bioactive compounds of millets as an inhibitor for lifestyle diseases: molecular docking and simulation-based approach
Authors: Nagre Kajal , Singh Nirupma , Ghoshal Chandrika , Tandon Gitanjali , Iquebal Mir Asif , Nain Tarsem , Bana Ram Swaroop , Meena Anita
Published: September 2023

Millets are becoming more popular as a healthy substitute for people with lifestyle disorders. They offer dietary fiber, polyphenols, fatty acids, minerals, vitamins, protein, and antioxidants. The nutritional importance of millets leads to the presentin-silicostudy of selective bioactive compounds docked against the targets of lifestyle diseases,viz., diabetes, hypertension, and atherosclerosis using molecular docking and molecular simulations approach. Pharmacokinetic analysis was also carried out to analyse ADME properties and toxicity analysis, drug-likeliness, and finally target prediction for new targets for uncharacterized compounds or secondary targets for recognized molecules by Swiss Target Prediction was also done. The docking results revealed that the bioactive compound flavan-4-ol, among all the 50 compounds studied, best docked to all the four targets of lifestyle diseases,viz., Human dipeptidyl peptidase IV (−5.94 kcal mol−1binding energy), Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (−6.49 kcal mol−1) diabetes-related enzyme, the Human angiotensin-converting enzyme (−6.31 kcal mol−1) which plays a significant role in hypertension, and Proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin type 9 (−4.67 kcal mol−1) for atherosclerosis. Molecular dynamics simulation analysis substantiates that the flavan-4-ol forms a better stability complex with all the targets. ADMET profiles further strengthened the candidature of the flavan-4-ol bioactive compound to be considered for trial as an inhibitor of targets DPPIV, SGLT2, PCSK9, and hACE. We suggest that more research be conducted, taking Flavon-4-ol into account where it can be used as standard treatment for lifestyle diseases.
Unveiling challenges in real-time PCR strategies for detecting treatment failure: observations from clinical trials on chronic Chagas disease
Authors: Schijman Alejandro G.
Published: September 2023

Chagas disease (CD) caused by Trypanosoma cruzi remains a Neglected Tropical Disease with limited access to diagnosis and treatment, particularly for chronically infected patients. Clinical trials are underway to improve treatment using new drugs or different regimens, and Real-Time PCR is used to assess the parasitological response as a surrogate biomarker. However, PCR-based strategies have limitations due to the complex nature of T. cruzi infection. The parasite exhibits asynchronous replication, different strains and clones, and diverse tissue tropism, making it challenging to determine optimal timeline points for monitoring treatment response. This mini-review explores factors that affect PCR-based monitoring and summarizes the endpoints used in clinical trials for detecting treatment failure. Serial sampling and cumulative PCR results may improve sensitivity in detecting parasitemia and treatment failure in these trials.
Case report: Presentations and cytokine profiles of inflammatory non-pulmonary COVID-19 and related diseases in children
Authors: Chao Yen-Chun , Yang Horng-Woei , Chang Lung , Tseng Chih-Wen , Fang Li-Ching , Ho Che-Sheng , Chi Hsin , Yang Kuender D.
Published: September 2023

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has evolved to dynamic waves of different SARS-CoV-2 variants. Initially, children diagnosed with COVID-19 presented pulmonary involvement characterized by mild diseases. In the later waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, life-threatening non-pulmonary inflammatory diseases such as (1) aseptic meningoencephalitis (ME), (2) acute necrotizing encephalopathies (ANE), and (3) multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) have been reported, affecting the pediatric population. To alert timely identification and prevention of the life-threatening non-pulmonary COVID-19, we present the cases of ME, ANE, and MIS-C in terms of clinical manifestation, cytokine profile, and follow-up consequences. Based on the immunopathogenesis and risk factors associated with non-pulmonary COVID-19, we delineate strategies for an early diagnosis and treatment to reduce morbidity and mortality in children.
Making the connection between health equity and sustainability
Authors: Shelton Rachel C. , Hailemariam Maji , Iwelunmor Juliet
Published: September 2023

Sustainability and health inequities are key challenges in public health and healthcare. Research suggests that only about half of evidence-based interventions (EBIs) are sustained over time, and settings and populations experiencing systemic and structural barriers to health (e.g., poverty, racism, stigma, and discrimination) experience even greater challenges to sustainability. In this article, we argue that an enhanced focus on sustainability in the field of implementation science is critical in order to maximize the long-term health benefits and broader societal impacts of EBIs for all populations and settings. From an equity perspective, a focus on sustainability is particularly critical to prioritize among population sub-groups that have not historically received the benefits of health-related EBIs. We discuss how a health equity framing is essential to sustaining EBIs in under-resourced communities, and requires moving away from a deficit mindset that focuses on why EBIs are challenging to sustain, to one that focuses more on identifying and nurturing existing assets within individuals and communities to increase the likelihood that EBIs are sustained. We conclude with a discussion of future directions as well as recommendations and resources (e.g., frameworks, tools) to advance and make progress toward sustainability from a health equity mindset, including: (1) Actively planning early for sustainability alongside key partners; (2) Tracking progress toward enhancing sustainability and being accountable in doing so equitably for all settings and populations; and (3) Focusing on both equity and engagement early and often throughout the research process and all implementation phases.
Apulian infectious diseases network: survey on the prevalence of delta infection among chronic HBV carriers in Apulia
Authors: Fasano Massimo , Milella Michele , Carbonara Sergio , Tundo Paolo , Minniti Salvatore , Buccoliero Giovanni , Maci Anna Maria , Lo Caputo Sergio , Santantonio Teresa Antonia
Published: September 2023

Background

The current prevalence and clinical burden of Hepatitis Delta Virus (HDV) infection in Apulia are unknown. This study aimed to define the current epidemiological scenario of delta infection and to detect difficulties in the diagnosis and clinical management of HDV patients in Apulia.

Methods

From May to September 2022, a fact-finding survey was conducted at eight Infectious Diseases Units of the Apulian region; each Unit was asked to complete a questionnaire on screening and diagnosis of HDV infection and demographic, virological, and clinical characteristics of HDV patients.

Results

A total of 1,461 HBsAg-positive subjects were followed up on an outpatient basis. Screening for HDV ranged from 30 to 90% of HBsAg + carriers in a single center. Overall, 952 HBsAg ± subjects (65%) were tested for HDV, and 80/952 (8.4%) were anti-HDV positive. Serum HDV RNA was detected only in 15/80 (19%) anti-HDV-positive subjects, and 12/15 patients (80%) were viremic. Sixty-five anti-HDV-positive subjects (81%) were from Italy; risk factors for HDV acquisition included the presence of HDV infection in the family (29/80 = 36%), drug addiction (12/80 = 15%), and co-infection with HCV or HIV (7/80 = 9%). Liver cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma were diagnosed in 41 (51%) and 4 (5%) patients, respectively. Fifty-seven patients (71%) received nucleos(t)ide analog treatment.

Conclusions

The results of this survey show that HDV screening is variable and insufficient, thus real prevalence data on delta infection are lacking in Apulia. Moreover, the HDV RNA test is not available in most laboratories and is not provided by the national health system. These results underline the need for an organizational model to optimize the management of HDV patients throughout the Apulian region.
A Spatial Registration Method for Multi-UAVs Based on a Cooperative Platform in a Geodesic Coordinate Information-Free Environment
Authors: Dai Qiuyang , Lu Faxing , Xu Junfei
Published: September 2023

The satellite navigation system of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) is susceptible to external interference in a complex environment, resulting in the loss of their own geodetic coordinate information. A spatial registration method for multi-UAVs based on a cooperative platform in a geodesic coordinate information-free environment is proposed to solve this problem. The mutual observation information between UAVs is approximated by the observation information of the cooperative platform. Indirect observation information of the target can be obtained on account of mutual observation. On the basis of this, a close-range spatial registration algorithm without the geodetic coordinate information of UAVs is designed by means of the right-angle translation method. Finally, the Kalman filtering technique is used to track maritime targets. In this paper, the proposed method is verified by a simulation experiment and a practical experiment. The proposed method is 90% effective in reducing systematic errors. The tracking accuracy after alignment is significantly better than that of the original trajectory.
Induction and Modulation of EVs by Cigarette Smoke and Their Relevance in Lung Disease: Recent Advances
Authors: Zhong Mengli , Zou Muhan , Yao Yue , Wu Hao , Su Weiwei , Wang Yonggang , Li Peibo
Published: September 2023

Cigarette combustion has the potential to generate over 7000 chemicals, the majority of which are reactive free radicals that are known to trigger pro-inflammatory and carcinogenic responses. Numerous contemporary investigations have proposed that the pathophysiological and cellular mechanisms underlying the release of extracellular vesicles (EVs) in response to cigarette smoke (CS) may serve as potential pathways for CS-induced pathogenesis, while also reflecting the physiological state of the originating cells. This review provides a concise overview of the pathophysiological mechanisms linked to CS-induced EVs in various lung diseases, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer, pulmonary fibrosis, and pulmonary hypertension. Additionally, it explores the potential and prospects of EVs as diagnostic biomarkers for CS-related lung diseases.