bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utilizing Remote Objective ADHD Testing to Monitor Symptom Improvement Following Medication Treatment
Authors: Sanyal Ragini Yallampalli , Nolen Robert , Gustafsson Urban , Hansen Mikkel
Published: September 2024

QbCheck is a medical device that can be used for remote monitoring to provide health care professionals with objective measurements of hyperactivity, impulsivity, and inattention to aid in the clinical assessment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The aim of this investigation was to evaluate QbCheck administration results when used for remote monitoring of ADHD medication treatment. The dataset collected was from clinical routine QbCheck assessments at different clinical sites in the US, and data were stored in a database supplied by QbTech AB, Stockholm, Sweden. QbCheck was administered at baseline, prior to treatment and after ADHD medication treatment began. The sample population age range was between 7 and 60 years, 46% were females, and all subjects were diagnosed with ADHD (N=114). The average time between QbCheck assessments (baseline to follow- up) was 66 days (range 1-312 days). Per standard data collection of the QbCheck, five variables were captured and calculated to indicate measurements of inattention, impulsivity, and hyperactivity. A significant improvement from baseline to post-treatment follow-up was seen in all five parameters (Activity - MicroEventX, Impulsivity – Commission Error, and Attention – Omission Error, Reaction Time & Reaction Time Variance) which were associated with a significant reduction in QbCheck Total Symptom Score by 42.06%. These findings suggest that QbCheck is a useful objective measure that could be incorporated in guiding treatment decisions, remote monitoring of ADHD medication, tracking of ADHD symptom regulation, and optimizing treatment outcomes for those with ADHD.
Life Together While Far Apart: Psychological, Physical, and Emotional Impacts of Transnational Marriages in the Context of Ghana
Authors: Hines Rodlyn Remina
Published: September 2024

Transnational couples make life together while far apart across international borders. Fully understanding transnational couple living requires an in-depth analysis of the causes of marital relationship strains among transnational couples and the behavioral adjustments and expectancies needed to accommodate relationship disruptions. Framed within the double ABC-X model of family stress and coping, this study investigated the impacts of transnational living on married Ghanaian couples. Twenty-Four married participants from three U.S. States and their Ghanaian spouses in Ghana were interviewed. Participants shared what motivated their transnational migration to the United States, how U.S. immigration policies influenced their marriage, and the psychological, physical, and emotional impacts of transnational living on them and their marriage relationship. Findings reveal that married transnational couples experience relationship strains that significantly affect different domains of their health and wellbeing. These strains exhibit as psychological, physical, and emotional challenges. Participants reported issues including recurring depression, chronic illnesses, financial hardships, and divorce. These relationship strains were found to result from unrealistic expectations about life in the U.S., inadequate understanding of immigration realities, lack of relationship nurturing, and barriers created by changing U.S. immigration policies. This study has implications for health practitioners and immigration policymakers.
Pengaruh Salinitas Terhadap Sintasan, Pertumbuhan, dan Laju Pertumbuhan Udang Vaname (Litopenaeus vannamei)
Authors: Farabi Ahmad Ilham , Lisminingsih Ratna Djuniwati , Prasetyo Hamdani Dwi
Published: September 2024

Vaname shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) as a superior type of shrimp, has economic value so it is widely cultivated in Indonesia. Vaname shrimp are included in aquatic organisms. This research was conducted to assess the effect of differences in salinity on the survival and growth rate of vaname shrimp. The research was carried out using experimental methods using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) using six different salinity treatments (0 ppt; 3 ppt; 6 ppt; 9 ppt; 12 ppt; 15 ppt) with four replications. The experimental results were analyzed statistically through one-way analysis of variance (One Way Anova). Data showed no difference in survival. The salinity treatment given was high enough so that the average survival was 58.33%, with the highest value shown in the P3 (9ppt) treatment at 80%. Meanwhile, there were significant differences in length growth and weight growth in different treatments. In treatment P3 (9 ppt) the highest results were obtained with an average shrimp length of 10.66 cm. Thus, the average daily growth rate in the P3 (9 ppt) shrimp treatment was 0.18%/day. The influence of cannibalism and feeding greatly determined survival in this study.Keywords : vannamei shrimp, salinity, growth, survivalAbstrakUdang vaname (Litopenaeus vannamei) sebagai jenis udang yang diunggulkan, memiliki nilai ekonomi sehingga banyak dibudidayakan di Indonesia. Udang vaname termasuk dalam organisme akuatik. Penelitian ini dilakukan menilai pengaruh perbedaan salinitas pada sintasan dan laju pertumbuhan udang vaname. Penelitian dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode eksperimen menggunakan Rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) dengan menggunakan enam perlakuan salinitas berbeda (0 ppt; 3 ppt; 6 ppt; 9 ppt; 12 ppt;15 ppt) dengan empat ulangan. Hasil eksperimen dianalisis secara statistik melalui analisis varian satu arah (One Way Anova). Data menunjukkan tidak ada perbedaan pada sintasan. Perlakuan salinitas yang diberikan cukup tinggi sehingga rata sintasan sebesar 58,33%, dengan nilai tertinggi ditunjukkan pada perlakuan P3 (9 ppt) sebesar 80%. Sementara itu, terdapat perbedaan pertumbuhan panjang dan pertumbuhan berat yang signifikan pada perlakuan berbeda. Dalam perlakuan P3 (9 ppt) diperoleh hasil tertinggi dengan rata-rata panjang udang 10,66 cm. Demikian dengan rata-rata laju pertumbuhan harian pada perlakuan P3 (9 ppt) udang sebesar 0,18 %/hari. Pengaruh kanibalisme serta pemberian pakan sangat menentukan sintasan dalam penelitian ini.Kata kunci : udang vaname, salinitas, pertumbuhan, sintasan
Etnobotani dan Distribusi Jenis Tumbuhan Berkhasiat Obat Pada Masyarakat Desa Candipuro, Kecamatan Candipuro, Kabupaten Lumajang
Authors: Putri Dheajeng Aprelia , Hayati Ari , Lisminingsih Ratna Djuniwati
Published: September 2024

Ethnobotany is the study of information about how ethnic groups, tribes, communities, and their environment historically or locally use and manage plants. The purpose of this study was to obtain data on plant species, plant benefits, plant parts that are utilized and how to process plants as medicinal plants by the community in Candipuro Village, Candipuro District, Lumajang Regency. Semi-structured interviews with respondents who know or have used medicinal plants were used to collect data on medicinal plants. The selection of respondents was carried out using the Snowball Sampling technique, namely by identifying Key Person (Key Figure). People in Candipuro village use 32 plant species from 19 families, each of which has benefits in curing diseases. Plant parts such as tubers, rhizomes, leaves, flower fruits, bark, seeds, gels, and fronds are utilized or processed as ABSTRAKEtnobotani merupakan studi tentang informasi mengenai bagaimana kelompok etnis, suku, masyarakat, dan lingkungannya secara historis atau lokal menggunakan dan mengelola tumbuhan. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk memperoleh data mengenai jenis tumbuhan, manfaat tumbuhan, bagian tumbuhan yang dimanfaatkan serta cara mengolah tumbuhan sebagai tumbuhan berkhasiat obat oleh masyarakat di Desa Candipuro, Kecamatan Candipuro, Kabupaten Lumajang. Wawancara semi-terstruktur dengan responden yang mengenal atau pernah menggunakan tumbuhan obat digunakan untuk mengumpulkan data tentang tumbuhan obat. Pemilihan responden dilakukan dengan teknik Snowball Sampling, yaitu dengan mengidentifikasi Key Person (Tokoh Kunci). Masyarakat di desa Candipuro menggunakan 32 spesies tumbuhan dari 19 familia yang mana masing masing tumbuhan memiliki manfaat dalam menyembuhkan penyakit. Bagian tumbuhan seperti umbi, rimpang, daun, buah bunga, kulit batang, biji, gel, dan pelepah dimanfaatkan atau diolah sebagai tumbuhan obat. Masyarakat menggunakan cara merebus, memotong, menumbuk, mengukus, memeras, dan mengonsumsi langsung sebagai metode pengolahan tumbuhan obat. Persebaran Tumbuhan Berkhasiat Obat pada 4 dusun yang ada di Desa Candipuro, yaitu pada Dusun Krajan didapatkan jumlah frekuensi sebesar 72% sedangkan pada Dusun Candi wetan sebesar 44%, pada Dusun Panggung Lombok lor dan Dusun Panggung Lombok kidul sebesar 62%.     Kata kunci: Etnobotani, Tumbuhan Berkhasiat Obat, Distribusi, Pemanfaatan.
Analisis Limbah Cair Industri Tahu Sebelum Dan Sesudah Penggunaan Konsorsium Effective Microorganism 4 (EM4)
Authors: Jannah Nurwatul , Lisminingsih Ratna Djuniwati , Syauqi Ahmad
Published: September 2024

There are many tofu factories in Indonesia and this causes a lot of waste to be generated. On average, tofu factories are unable to process waste, so the waste produced is thrown directly into the environment without processing, so it can pollute the environment. Liquid waste processing can be done simply, namely by bioremediation using EM4. This research aims to compare between control treatments, EM4 7.5% and EM4 15% in the processing of industrial tofu liquid waste. The research method used True Experiment Design and Completely Randomized Design (CRD), with 3 treatments namely P1 (control), P2 (EM4 7.5%), and P3 (EM4 15%). Each treatment was repeated 7 times. The research parameters measured were pH, BOD, COD, and TSS before and after treatment. The results of the data obtained during the observation were analyzed using the ANOVA test then tested by LSD test. The research results showed that there were differences in bioremediation after using Effective microorganism-4 (EM4) in the control treatment, EM4 7,5% and EM4 15%, but it was not yet effective in reducing BOD, COD and TSS levels in tofu wastewater. The treatment has not been effective because the remediation results still did not meet the quality standarts in East Java Governor Regulation No 52 of 2014. Keywords:  tofu wastewater, EM4, BOD, COD, TSS.
Studi Pertumbuhan Bawang Merah (Allium ascalonicum L.) pada Media Hidroponik dengan Pupuk Organik Limbah Sayur
Authors: Septianing Eka , Hayati Ari , Lisminingsih Ratna Djuniwati
Published: September 2024

This research aims to determine the effect of organic fertilizer from vegetable waste on the growth of shallots (Allium ascalonicum L.) and the optimal concentration of organic fertilizer from vegetable waste on the growth of shallots (Allium ascalonicum L.) in a hydroponic system. This research method was carried out using a Completely Randomized (CRD) design using 5 treatment levels with 5 repetitions using concentrations of 0%, 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%. The parameters used are the number of leaves (strands), length of leaves and roots (cm) and number of roots. If there is an effect, then a further DMRT test is carried out. The results of statistical analysis showed that there were no differences in the number of leaves and leaf length in the treatments, but there were differences in the number of roots and root length in the treatments. The results of the DMRT test on root number and root length showed that the control treatment (0% POC) was the concentration that produced the highest root length and root number. The results of liquid organic fertilizer from vegetable waste have a significant influence on the growth in length and number of roots of shallots (Allium ascalonicum L.). ABSTRAKPenelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh pupuk organik dari limbah sayur terhadap pertumbuhan bawang merah (Allium ascalonicum L.) dan konsentrasi pupuk organik limbah sayur yang optimal terhadap pertumbuhan bawang merah (Allium ascalonicum L.) pada sistem hidroponik. Metode penelitian ini dilakukan menggunakan rancangan Acak Lengkap (RAL) menggunakan 5 taraf perlakuan 5 kali pengulangan menggunakan konsetrasi 0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, dan 100%. Parameter yang digunakan adalah jumlah daun (helai), panjang daun dan akar (cm) serta jumlah akar. Jika terdapat pengaruh, maka dilakukan uji lanjut DMRT. Hasil analisis statistik menunjukkan bahwa tidak ada perbedaan jumlah daun dan panjang daun pada perlakuan, tetapi terdapat perbedaan jumlah akar dan panjang akar pada perlakuan. Hasil uji DMRT terhadap jumlah akar dan panjang akar menunjukan bahwa perlakuan kontrol (0% POC) merupakan konsetrasi yang menghasilkan panjang akar dan jumlah akar tertinggi. Hasil pupuk organik cair limbah sayur memiliki pengaruh yang signifikan terhadap pertumbuhan panjang dan jumlah akar bawang merah (Allium ascalonicum L.).Kata kunci: Bawang merah, hidroponik, limbah sayur, pupuk organik dan pertumbuhan bawang merah
Expanding Cartel Fines Beyond Deterrence: a psychological perspective
Authors:   , van Stekelenburg Loet
Published: September 2024

The primary strategy that is used to fight illegal business cartels is one of general deterrence. In practice this means that authorities investigate and sanction cartels to show other business executives that it does not pay to form a cartel. The fines are meant to confer the severity of the fines and the risk of getting caught. However, this approach simplifies people as purely driven by incentives and does not take into account the complex nature of human perception and decision-making. Through several survey studies and experimental research among business executives, this dissertation provides insight into the drivers of cartel behaviour and the effects of fine communication. The findings in this dissertation show that norms toward cartels and knowledge of the law are potentially much more important in the fight against cartels than deterrence perceptions. Firstly, survey research among Dutch business executives showed that norms toward cartel behaviour and knowledge of the law have a much stronger relationship to intention to show cartel behaviour than perceptions of fine severity and risk of detection. Secondly, the results of two studies on specific fines show that competition fines are likely primarily effective in improving knowledge of the law and potentially also in improving the norm toward cartel behaviour. The studies show no evidence that specific fines influence perceptions of fine severity or detection risk. Finally, two experimental studies on fine messaging showed that deterrence frames can be used to improve business executives’ norms toward cartel behaviour, but are unlikely to affect their perceptions of fine severity or detection risk. These results provide a more complete picture of cartel behaviour and give competition authorities new insights to improve their supervision and look beyond a sole focus on deterrence.
CYTOKINE STATUS CHARACTERISTICS IN PATIENTS WITH ACANTHOLYTIC PEMPHIGUS CONSIDERING THE APPLIED TREATMENT METHODS
Authors:   SE « Institute  of  Dermatology  and  Venereology  of  the  NAMS  of  Ukraine», O . I. Oliinyk
Published: September 2024

Acantholytic pemphigus (AP) is an autoimmune bullous skin disease characterized by reduced tolerance to the desmosomal protein desmoglein 3 (Dsg3), leading to the production of autoantibodies targeting cell adhesion molecules. The active involvement of complex immune processes in the pathogenesis of AP, particularly the pronounced imbalance in cytokine regulation, determines the clinical manifestations and severity of the dermatosis. Objective.To study the cytokine status of patients with acantholytic pemphigus ( AP) and determineits role in the pathogenesis of this disease, analyzing the levels of key pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines in the serum of patients with AP depending on the type of treatment, and comparing the obtained results with the indicators of healthy individuals. Materials and Methods. Cytokine status (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ and TNF-α levels in serum) of 23 patients with acantholytic pemphigus and 17 practically healthy individuals was determined using immunoenzymatic analysis. Results and Discussion.The results of the study show that in both groups of patients with AP, during the exacerbation of the disease, significantly elevated levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, TNF-α, and IFN-γ were observed compared to the control group. The reduction in cytokine levels (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IFN-γ, TNF-α) under the influence of immunosuppressive therapy (IST) was accompanied by clinical improvement, confirming the feasibility of using these cytokines as biomarkers of disease activity. Conclusions.Immunosuppressive therapy, whether as monotherapy with systemic glucocorticosteroids (SGCS) or in combinationwith SGCS and cytostatics (CS), leads to a reduction in cytokine levels, primarily pro-inflammatory ones, confirming its pathogenetic significance
Seasonal variation of total and bioavailable 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] in the healthy adult Slovenian population
Authors: Osredkar Joško , Vičič Vid , Hribar Maša , Benedik Evgen , Siuka Darko , Jerin Aleš , Čegovnik Primožič Urška , Fabjan Teja , Kumer Kristina , Pravst Igor , Žmitek Katja
Published: September 2024

Objective: The aim of our study was to compare the total 25(OH)D fraction, the bioavailable vitamin fraction, and the free vitamin D fraction in spring and fall in a group of healthy individuals.

Methods: In our study, we collected blood samples from healthy participants at the end of both summer and winter, and measured serum levels of albumin, DBP, and 25(OH)D. Utilizing these data, we calculated the percentage of free and bioavailable vitamin D. Our cohort comprised 87 participants, with a male-to-female ratio of 14:73, aged 35.95 ± 12.55 years, ranging from 19 to 70 years. We employed the chemiluminescence method to determine the vitamin 25(OH)D levels, the ELISA method was utilized to determine DBP levels, the albumin BCP Assay was performed using the ADVIA biochemical analyzer (Siemens) and an online calculator was used to determine the free and bioavailable 25(OH)D levels.

Results: Our findings indicate significantly lower 25(OH)D levels in winter (44.13 ± 17.82 nmol/L) compared to summer (74.97 ± 22.75 nmol/L; p < 0.001). For vitamin D binding protein there was no significant difference from summer (236.2 ± 164.39 mg/L) to winter (239.86 ± 141.9 mg/L; p = 0.77), albumin levels were significantly higher in summer (49.37 ± 4.15 g/L vs. 47.97 ± 3.91 g/L, p = 0.01), but the magnitude of the change may not be large enough to be solely responsible for the stability of vitamin D levels throughout the year. In the winter season a significantly lower calculated bioavailable 25(OH)D vitamin (7.45 ± 5.66 nmol/L against 13.11 ± 8.27 nmol/L; p < 0.001) was observed, and the free fraction also showed a significant decrease (17.3 ± 12.9 pmol/L versus 29.7 ± 19.1 pmol/L; p < 0.0001). We observed a moderately positive correlation between 25(OH)D and bioavailable percentage in winter (r = 0.680; p < 0.001), in contrast with a lower positive association in summer (r = 0.343; p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Our data suggest a positive correlation between total and bioavailable 25(OH)D levels. In addition to the statistically significant variation in 25(OH)D between the two observation periods, there was an additional variation in the free vitamin D percentage. The summertime synthesis of vitamin D in the skin could contribute directly to the free fraction of vitamin D. Standardizing the measurement of free 25(OH)D and clinical studies is necessary to establish reference values before these methods can be implemented in clinical practice.
A novel ultrasound approach in assessing IMAT in critically ill patients
Authors: Molinger Jeroen , Whittle John , Endeman Henrik , MacLeod David , Gupta Rajan , Fudim Marat , Haines Krista L. , Barkauskas Christina , Healy Zachary , Wischmeyer Paul , Bakker Jan
Published: September 2024

Background

Muscle wasting is a common finding in critically ill patients associated with increased days of mechanical ventilation in the ICU. Muscle wasting and associated morphological changes are hallmarks of ICU-acquired weakness. Muscle wasting can be diagnosed and quantified by muscle biopsy, but biopsies can cause multiple adverse effects. MuscleSound® has developed a non-invasive, real-time novel MusculoSkeletal (MSK) ultrasound approach to measure the ratio between percentage intramuscular adipose tissue (%IMAT) with muscle cross-section area (MCSA) (termed IMAT-Index). The present study aimed to assess the IMAT-Index in ICU patients longitudinally and compare it to age-matched healthy controls.

Methods

Transverse (short-axis) ultrasound images of the rectus femoris muscle were obtained upon admission and discharge in 35 ICU patients and compared to age-matched healthy controls (n = 975). The echo intensity of the image taken from the muscle is used to automatically calculate the ratio between intramuscular adipose tissue by cm2 (IMAT-Index), the cross-sectional area of the muscle (MCSA), and muscle thickness (MT).

Results

IMAT-Index was successfully measured in all subjects. The mean IMAT-index (%IMAT/cm2) upon admission was significantly higher in critically ill patients compared to healthy controls (7.4 ± 4.3 vs. 3.1 ± 0.9, p < 0.001). At ICU discharge, the IMAT-index increased in the ICU group compared to admission (8.1 ± 3.5 vs. 7.4 ± 4.3, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Real-time noninvasive MSK ultrasound IMAT-Index was higher in ICU patients than in healthy controls and increased during the ICU stay, both in male and female patients.
Mitochondrial lipid peroxidation is necessary but not sufficient for induction of ferroptosis
Authors: Huan He , Lyamzaev Konstantin G. , Panteleeva Alisa A. , Chernyak Boris V.
Published: September 2024

Ferroptosis, a form of regulated cell death mediated by lipid peroxidation (LPO), has become the subject of intense research due to its potential therapeutic applications in cancer chemotherapy as well as its pathophysiological role in ischemic organ injury. The role of mitochondrial lipid peroxidation (LPO) in ferroptosis remains poorly understood. We show that supplementation of exogenous iron in the form of ferric ammonium citrate (FAC) in combination with buthionine sulfoximine (BSO, an inhibitor of glutathione biosynthesis) induces mitochondrial lipid peroxidation that precedes ferroptosis in normal human fibroblasts. The mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant SkQ1 and the redox mediator methylene blue, which inhibits the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in complex I of the mitochondrial electron transport chain, prevent both mitochondrial lipid peroxidation and ferroptosis, but do not affect the cytosolic ROS accumulation. These data indicate that mitochondrial lipid peroxidation is required for ferroptosis induced by exogenous iron. FAC in the absence of BSO stimulates mitochondrial peroxidation without reducing cell viability. Glutathione depletion by BSO does not affect FAC-induced mitochondrial LPO but strongly stimulates the accumulation of ROS in the cytosol. These data allow us to conclude that mitochondrial LPO is not sufficient for ferroptosis and that cytosolic ROS mediates additional oxidative events that stimulate ferroptosis in conjunction with mitochondrial LPO.
Fast and quantitative mitophagy assessment by flow cytometry using the mito-QC reporter
Authors: Jiménez-Loygorri Juan Ignacio , Jiménez-García Carlos , Viedma-Poyatos Álvaro , Boya Patricia
Published: September 2024

Mitochondrial quality control is finely tuned by mitophagy, the selective degradation of mitochondria through autophagy, and mitochondrial biogenesis. Removal of damaged mitochondria is essential to preserve cellular bioenergetics and prevent detrimental events such as sustained mitoROS production, pro-apoptotic cytochrome c release or mtDNA leakage. The array of tools available to study mitophagy is very limited but in constant development. Almost a decade ago, we developed a method to assess mitophagy flux using MitoTracker Deep Red in combination with lysosomal inhibitors. Now, using the novel tandem-fluorescence reporter mito-QC (mCherry-GFP-FIS1101−152) that allows to differentiate between healthy mitochondria (mCherry+GFP+) and mitolysosomes (mCherry+GFP−), we have developed a robust and quantitative method to assess mitophagy by flow cytometry. This approach has been validated in ARPE-19 cells using PINK1/Parkin-dependent (CCCP) and PINK1/Parkin-independent (DFP) positive controls and complementary techniques. Furthermore, we show that the mito-QC reporter can be multiplexed, especially if using spectral flow cytometry, to simultaneously study other cellular parameters such as viability or ROS production. Using this technique, we evaluated and characterized two prospective mitophagy inducers and further dissected their mechanism of action. Finally, using mito-QC reporter mice, we developed a protocol to measure mitophagy levels in the retina ex vivo. This novel methodology will propel mitophagy research forward and accelerate the discovery of novel mitophagy modulators.
Unveiling the role of TRPA1 in cardiovascular health and disease: a mini review
Authors: Gellani Islam , Qian Chunqi , Ma Shuangtao
Published: September 2024

The transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) ion channel has emerged as significant regulators of cardiovascular physiology and pathology. TRPA1 is a non-selective cation channel permeable to calcium ions. A unique feature of the channel is its function as a sensor of various temperature, chemical and mechanical stimuli, while it can also be activated by endogenous inflammatory mediators and reactive oxygen species. Over the last two decades, much progress has been made in illuminating the role of TRPA1 in the regulation of cardiovascular physiology and pathophysiology in addition to its important function in pain sensation. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of recent studies investigating the involvement of TRPA1 channels in various cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction, ischemia-reperfusion injury, myocardial fibrosis, and response to environmental toxins. We discuss the diverse roles of TRPA1 channels in cardiac pathology and highlight their potential as therapeutic targets for cardiovascular disorders. Moreover, we explore the challenges and opportunities linked with targeting TRPA1 channels for treating cardiovascular diseases, alongside future research directions.
Heart failure biomarkers in revascularized patients with stable coronary heart disease as clinical outcome predictors
Authors: Bošnjak Ivica , Bedeković Dražen , Selthofer-Relatić Kristina , Roguljić Hrvoje , Mihaljević Ivica , Dukić Darko , Bilić-Ćurčić Ines
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The aim of this study was to investigate serum levels of galectin-3 (Gal-3) and N-terminal pro-brain Natriuretic Peptide (NT-proBNP) in patients with stable obstructive coronary artery disease, as well as their potential to predict clinical outcomes.

Methods

This was a single-center cross-sectional cohort study. 168 patients were divided into three groups: percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) group (N 64), coronary artery bypass graft surgery (CABG) group (N 57), and group with no coronary stenosis (N 47). Gal-3 and NT-proBNP levels were measured and the Syntax score (Ss) was calculated.

Results

The mean value of Gal-3 was 19.98 ng/ml and 9.51 ng/ml (p < 0.001) in the study group and control group, respectively. Highest value of Gal-3 was found in the group of subjects with three-vessel disease (p < 0.001). The mean value of NT-proBNP in the study group was 401.3 pg/ml, and in the control group 100.3 pg/ml (p = 0.159). The highest value of NT-proBNP was found in the group of subjects with three-vessel disease (p = 0.021). There was a statistically significant association between Gal-3, NT-proBNP and occurrence of adverse cardiovascular event (p = 0.0018; p = 0.0019).

Conclusion

Gal-3 and NT-proBNP could be used as an additional tool for diagnosis and severity assessment of stable obstructive coronary artery disease. Furthermore, it could help identify high-risk patients who could experience major adverse cardiovascular events.
Determination of stress state based on coupling characteristics of load/unload response ratio and outgoing longwave radiation before large earthquakes
Authors: Lei Yu , Jianyong Li , Chen Yu , Haizhen Zhang , Dequan Hong , Weiyu Ma
Published: September 2024

The Load/Unload Response Ratio (LURR) is a seismic prediction method based on the dynamic evolution of the stress-strain relationship of rocks. By adopting Benioff strain as the response indicator, an in-depth analysis was conducted on the LURR anomalies within 400 km of the epicenter and its surrounding areas before the Ms7.4 earthquake in Madoi, Qinghai Province, on 22 May 2021. The analysis revealed that the LURR value peaked 1 month before the earthquake and then declined within half a month, indicating that the rock medium in the seismic gestation area was approaching the end of its yielding phase. Further investigation using the Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR) data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) satellite was conducted to study the short-term and imminent anomalous evolution of ground longwave radiation values after the high values declined (from May 14 to 25). The results showed that, spatially, significant and continuous OLR anomalies were observed only in the northern area of the epicenter before the earthquake, and these anomalies exhibited a trend of expanding towards the epicenter. Temporally, the entire anomalous evolution process can be divided into six phases: initial warming, anomaly expansion, peak intensity, anomaly weakening, earthquake occurrence, and anomaly disappearance. To validate this finding, the spatiotemporal evolution characteristics of LURR and OLR within 300 km of the epicenter and its surrounding areas before the Ms6.4 earthquake in Yangbi, Yunnan Province, on 21 May 2021, were analyzed, and similar patterns were found. These results suggest that the high LURR value before its decline may mark the end of the rock medium’s yielding phase, and OLR data can reflect, to some extent, the state of tectonic stress accumulation along active faults in a critical condition. A comprehensive study of the anomalous evolution characteristics of these two physical parameters before the earthquake is not only conducive to the continuity from long-term to short-term forecasts but also of great significance for more accurately assessing the trend of seismic activity.
The role of vascular and lymphatic networks in bone and joint homeostasis and pathology
Authors: Huang Jingxiong , Liao Chengcheng , Yang Jian , Zhang Liang
Published: September 2024

The vascular and lymphatic systems are integral to maintaining skeletal homeostasis and responding to pathological conditions in bone and joint tissues. This review explores the interplay between blood vessels and lymphatic vessels in bones and joints, focusing on their roles in homeostasis, regeneration, and disease progression. Type H blood vessels, characterized by high expression of CD31 and endomucin, are crucial for coupling angiogenesis with osteogenesis, thus supporting bone homeostasis and repair. These vessels facilitate nutrient delivery and waste removal, and their dysfunction can lead to conditions such as ischemia and arthritis. Recent discoveries have highlighted the presence and significance of lymphatic vessels within bone tissue, challenging the traditional view that bones are devoid of lymphatics. Lymphatic vessels contribute to interstitial fluid regulation, immune cell trafficking, and tissue repair through lymphangiocrine signaling. The pathological alterations in these networks are closely linked to inflammatory joint diseases, emphasizing the need for further research into their co-regulatory mechanisms. This comprehensive review summarizes the current understanding of the structural and functional aspects of vascular and lymphatic networks in bone and joint tissues, their roles in homeostasis, and the implications of their dysfunction in disease. By elucidating the dynamic interactions between these systems, we aim to enhance the understanding of their contributions to skeletal health and disease, potentially informing the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.
Assessment of microphytobenthos communities in the Kinzig catchment using photosynthesis-related traits, digital light microscopy and 18S-V9 amplicon sequencing
Authors: Mayombo Ntambwe Albert Serge , Dani Mimoza , Kloster Michael , Vidaković Danijela , Buchner Dominik , Burfeid-Castellanos Andrea M. , Beszteri Bánk
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Microalgae form an essential group of benthic organisms that respond swiftly to environmental changes. They are widely used as bioindicators of anthropogenic stressors in freshwater ecosystems. We aimed to assess the responses of microalgae communities to multiple environmental stressors in the Kinzig River catchment, home to a long-term ecological monitoring site, in Germany.

Methods

We used a photosynthetic biomass proxy alongside community composition of diatoms assessed by digital light microscopy, and of microalgae by 18S-V9 amplicon sequencing, to characterise microalgae at 19 sampling sites scattered across the catchment.

Results

Our results revealed significant effects of physical and chemical factors on microalgae biomass and community compositions. We found that conductivity, water temperature and pH were the most important factors affecting microalgae community composition, as observed in both microscopy and amplicon analysis. In addition to these three variables, the effect of total phosphate on all microalgae, together with water discharge on the diatom (Bacillariophyta) communities, as assessed by amplicon analysis, may reveal taxon-specific variations in the ecological responses of different microalgal groups.

Discussion

Our results highlighted the complex relationship between various environmental variables and microalgae biomass and community composition. Further investigations, involving the collection of time series data, are required to fully understand the underlying biotic and abiotic parameters that influence these microalgae communities.
The promise of Synovial Joint-on-a-Chip in rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Zhang Xin , Su Rui , Wang Hui , Wu Ruihe , Fan Yuxin , Bin Zexuan , Gao Chong , Wang Caihong
Published: September 2024

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects millions of people worldwide, but there are limited drugs available to treat it, so acquiring a more comprehensive comprehension of the underlying reasons and mechanisms behind inflammation is crucial, as well as developing novel therapeutic approaches to manage it and mitigate or forestall associated harm. It is evident that current in vitro models cannot faithfully replicate all aspects of joint diseases, which makes them ineffective as tools for disease research and drug testing. Organ-on-a-chip (OoC) technology is an innovative platform that can mimic the microenvironment and physiological state of living tissues more realistically than traditional methods by simulating the spatial arrangement of cells and interorgan communication. This technology allows for the precise control of fluid flow, nutrient exchange, and the transmission of physicochemical signals, such as bioelectrical, mechanical stimulation and shear force. In addition, the integration of cutting-edge technologies like sensors, 3D printing, and artificial intelligence enhances the capabilities of these models. Here, we delve into OoC models with a particular focus on Synovial Joints-on-a-Chip, where we outline their structure and function, highlighting the potential of the model to advance our understanding of RA. We integrate the actual evidence regarding various OoC models and their possible integration for multisystem disease study in RA research for the first time and introduce the prospects and opportunities of the chip in RA etiology and pathological mechanism research, drug research, disease prevention and human precision medicine. Although many challenges remain, OoC holds great promise as an in vitro model that approaches physiology and dynamics.
Increased incidence of seronegative autoimmune hepatitis in children during SARS-CoV-2 pandemia period
Authors: Schmutz Muriel , Chartier Suzanne , Leblanc Thierry , Mussini Charlotte , Gardin Antoine , Gonzales Emmanuel , Roque-Afonso Anne-Marie , Le Cam Solene , Hery Geraldine , Neven Benedicte , Charbel Ramy , Vartanian Jean-Pierre , Jacquemin Emmanuel , Morelle Guillaume , Almes Marion
Published: September 2024

Background

Seronegative autoimmune hepatitis in children is a rare but potentially severe disease, sometimes requiring liver transplantation. This type of hepatitis may be associated with various immunological and hematological disorders, ranging from isolated lymphopenia to aplastic anemia. Precise pathophysiological mechanisms are still unknown, but the role of viruses cannot be excluded, either as directly pathogenic or as triggers, responsible for an inappropriate immune stimulation. Having the impression of an increasing number of seronegative autoimmune hepatitis since the beginning of SARS-CoV-2 pandemia period, we hypothesized that SARS-CoV-2 virus could be an infectious trigger.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, observational, descriptive study about children with seronegative autoimmune hepatitis, in a tertiary care center, between 2010 and 2022.

Results

Thirty-two patients were included. The overall incidence of seronegative autoimmune hepatitis increased 3.3-fold in 2020-2022, during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemia period (16 patients in 2.8 years) compared with 2010-2019 the pre pandemia period (16 patients in 9 years). Patients’ clinical and biochemical liver characteristics did not differ between the two periods. Hematological damages were less severe during the pandemia period. Immunological studies revealed a dysregulated immune response. The initiation of immunosuppressive therapy (corticosteroids ± cyclosporine) was earlier during the pandemia period than before.

Conclusion

In cases of undetermined acute hepatitis, an immune-mediated origin should be considered, prompting a liver biopsy. If the histological aspect points to an immune origin, immunosuppressive treatment should be instituted even though autoimmune hepatitis antibodies are negative. Close hematological monitoring must be performed in all cases. The 3.3-fold increase of cases during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemia will need to be further analyzed to better understand the underlying immunological mechanisms, and to prove its potential involvement.
Degradation of water quality caused by typhoon passage: a case study of the Zhejiang coastal waters in 2019
Authors: Cao Tong , Zhou Feng , Tian Di , Meng Qicheng , Ma Xiao , Wang Bin , Zhang Qianjiang , Xuan Jiliang , Chen Jianfang , Huang Daji
Published: September 2024

The degradation of coastal seawater quality off the Changjiang Estuary and adjacent waters is typically associated with monsoon wind, ocean currents and inputs of terrestrial pollutants. In addition to these factors, the passage of typhoons can be also important in driving short-term fluctuations in coastal water quality. Using a coupled Regional Ocean Modeling Systems (ROMS) and carbon, silicate, and nitrogen ecosystem (CoSiNE) model with Eulerian tracers, we investigated the transport processes of pollutants discharged from the Changjiang during the passage of Typhoons Lingling and Tapah (2019). The model results show that Typhoons Lingling and Tapah significantly enhanced the southward transport of these pollutants, leading to a sudden and noteworthy degradation of water quality in the Zhejiang coastal region during early autumn, despite no considerable change in monsoon pattern or river discharge compared to normal years. As Lingling and Tapah successively passed through the East China Sea in September, the average nitrate concentration in the Zhejiang coastal waters rose by 77%, and the percentage of heavily polluted water increased by 28%. Our numerical experiments showed that the impacts caused by Lingling and Tapah on nitrate levels in these waters lasted for approximately 34 and 23 days, respectively. These results indicate that typhoons play a crucial role in regulating the transport of pollutants in coastal waters, with significant sub-seasonal effects on the marine biogeochemical environment.
Impact of the pandemic on hospital care for chronic pain patients in Germany
Authors: Cegla Thomas , Hohenstein Sven , Bollmann Andreas , Pellissier Vincent , Bencheva Veronika , Schmiedl Sven
Published: September 2024

Objectives

The COVID-19 pandemic affected patients’ access to health services, including patients with severe chronic pain. Since limited data on pandemic-caused changes in pain therapy is available, we analyzed its effect on hospital-based pain treatment.

Methods

For this retrospective claims data analysis conducted in n = 37 hospitals, we included patients treated for a chronic pain-related diagnosis. Discharge rates stratified by region and pain unit size were analyzed for different time periods between January 2019 and June 2022.

Results

There was a significant decrease in day-care, inpatient interdisciplinary multimodal pain management, from a total of 5,533 hospital pre-pandemic treatments in 2019, to 3,942 in 2020 and 4,262 in 2021, with a slight increase in the first half of 2022. The extent of COVID-19-related changes differed depending on region and pain unit size.

Conclusion

The decreased number of hospital pain treatments during the pandemic implies a relevant analgesic undertreatment. During future pandemics, the ethical dimension of potentially non-sufficient pain treatment should be weighted against social, medical and hygienic restrictions influencing the hospitalization rate.
Structural and genomic evolutionary dynamics of Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 circulating in Madhya Pradesh, India
Authors: Dhankher Suman , Yadav Pooja , Sharma Shashi , Gupta Ekta , Yadav Ram Govind , Dash Paban Kumar , Parida Manmohan
Published: September 2024

The SARS-CoV-2 Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant emerged in early November 2021 and its rapid spread created fear worldwide. This was attributed to its increased infectivity and escaping immune mechanisms. The spike protein of Omicron has more mutations (>30) than any other previous variants and was declared as the variant of concern (VOC) by the WHO. The concern among the scientific community was huge about this variant, and a piece of updated information on circulating viral strains is important in order to better understand the epidemiology, virus pathogenicity, transmission, therapeutic interventions, and vaccine development. A total of 710 samples were processed for sequencing and identification up to a resolution of sub-lineage. The sequence analysis revealed Omicron variant with distribution as follows: B.1.1, B.1.1.529, BA.1, BA.2, BA.2.10, BA.2.10.1, BA.2.23, BA.2.37, BA.2.38, BA.2.43, BA.2.74, BA.2.75, BA.2.76, and BA.4 sub-lineages. There is a shift noted in circulating lineage from BA.1 to BA.2 to BA.4 over a period from January to September 2022. Multiple signature mutations were identified in S protein T376A, D405N, and R408S mutations, which were new and common to all BA.2 variants. Additionally, R346T was seen in emerging BA.2.74 and BA.2.76 variants. The emerging BA.4 retained the common T376A, D405N, and R408S mutations of BA.2 along with a new mutation F486V. The samples sequenced were from different districts of Madhya Pradesh and showed a predominance of BA.2 and its variants circulating in this region. The current study identified circulation of BA.1 and BA.1.1 variants during initial phase. The predominant Delta strain of the second wave has been replaced by the Omicron variant in this region over a period of time. This study successfully deciphers the dynamics of the emergence and replacement of various sub-lineages of SARS-CoV-2 in central India on real real-time basis.
Identifying key predictors for uterine manipulator use in robotic simple hysterectomy: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Kawamura Shogo , Ota Kuniaki , Ota Yoshiaki , Takahashi Toshifumi , Fujiwara Hitomi , Tasaka Keitaro , Okamoto Hana , Morimoto Yumiko , Saito Wataru , Sugihara Mika , Matsuyama Takehiko , Koike Eiji , Shiota Mitsuru , Shimoya Koichiro
Published: September 2024

Background

Robotic simple hysterectomy (RSH) is the most common robotic gynecologic surgery in the United States. Uterine manipulators are commonly used to handle the uterus during laparoscopic surgery, but few studies have examined their necessity in RSH. This study retrospectively compares RSH cases with and without the use of manipulators, and identifies predictors for their intraoperative use.

Materials and methods

This retrospective cohort study included patients undergoing RSH for benign pathologies at Kawasaki Medical School from October 2020 to December 2022. Patients with malignancies were excluded. The robotic surgeries were performed by three skilled surgeons using the four-arm da Vinci Xi surgical system. Data on perioperative and operative parameters were collected, including age, body mass index (BMI), history of abdominal surgery, disease type, presence of ovarian cysts, and operative time. Statistical analyses were performed using EZR software, with multivariate logistic regression to identify predictive factors for uterine manipulator use.

Results

The study included 113 patients who underwent RSH without a uterine manipulator and 58 with one. Patients without a manipulator were older, while those with a manipulator had higher BMIs and a higher prevalence of ovarian chocolate cysts and Douglas obliteration. Operating time was shorter without a manipulator. Independent predictors for manipulator use were higher BMI, presence of ovarian endometrioid cysts, and Douglas obliteration.

Conclusion

RSH without a uterine manipulator is feasible and can reduce the need for surgical assistants. Predictors for manipulator use include higher BMI, ovarian cysts, and Douglas obliteration. The use of a fourth robotic arm can enhance surgical independence and resource efficiency. Further research is needed to assess the long-term cost-effectiveness and outcomes of this approach.
The interaction between gut microbiota and hibernation in mammals
Authors: Gao Peng , Shen Wenjing , Bo Tingbei
Published: September 2024

Hibernation, an evolved survival trait among animals, enables them to endure frigid temperatures and food scarcity during the winter months, and it is a widespread phenomenon observed in mammals. The gut microbiota, a crucial component of animal nutrition and health, exhibits particularly dynamic interactions in hibernating mammals. This manuscript comprehensively evaluates the impacts of fasting, hypothermia, and hypometabolism on the gut microbiota of hibernating mammals. It suggests that alterations in the gut microbiota may contribute significantly to the maintenance of energy metabolism and intestinal immune function during hibernation, mediated by their metabolites. By delving into these intricacies, we can gain a deeper understanding of how hibernating mammals adapt to their environments and the consequences of dietary modifications on the symbiotic relationship between the gut microbiota and the host. Additionally, this knowledge can inform our comprehension of the protective mechanisms underlying long-term fasting in non-hibernating species, including humans, providing valuable insights into nutritional strategies and health maintenance.