bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hubungan Pengetahuan dan Sikap terhadap Perilaku Perawat dalam Perencanaan Pasien Pulang (Discharge Planning)
Authors: Rahayu Sri
Published: July 2024

Perencanaan pasien pulang (discharge planning) merupakan aspek krusial dalam perawatan kesehatan, namun implementasinya di rumah sakit masih kurang optimal oleh tim perawat. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengeksplorasi keterkaitan antara pengetahuan dan sikap perawat dengan pelaksanaan pelaksanaan pasien pulang di ruang rawat inap. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah rancangan cross-sectional dengan total sampel sebanyak 68 orang perawat yang dipilih dengan teknik total sampling. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui wawancara dan kuesioner sebagai instrumen penelitian. Analisis data menggunakan uji chi-square. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan adanya hubungan yang signifikan antara pengetahuan (P<0,001) serta sikap (P<0,001) perawat dengan pelaksanaan perencanaan pasien pulang. Peneliti menyarankan agar pelaksanaan perencanaan pasien pulang dipertahankan, ditingkatkan, dan diterapkan secara menyeluruh mulai dari kedatangan hingga kepulangan pasien.
Satisfacción laboral en policías ecuatorianos durante la pandemia del COVID 19
Authors:   Universidad Andina Simón Bolívar, Sucre - Bolivia, Camacho Vargas Miguel Ángel
Published: July 2024

La satisfacción laboral juega un papel fundamental en el ámbito policial, especialmente durante la pandemia de COVID-19, debido a su impacto directo en el mantenimiento del orden público. Una baja satisfacción puede llevar a una falta de compromiso organizacional, un bajo desempeño laboral y un incremento del ausentismo. Este estudio buscó evaluar la satisfacción laboral en la policía y examinar cómo se ve afectada por factores socio-demográficos y características del entorno de trabajo. Al examinar los resultados de una encuesta llevada a cabo a 3735 policías de diversas ciudades del Ecuador, revela que la mayoría de los agentes mostraron una satisfacción laboral promedio, lo que indica una adaptación a las condiciones desafiantes impuestas por la pandemia. Tanto hombres como mujeres reportaron una menor satisfacción relacionada con las condiciones laborales y la percepción de la tarea. Aunque no se observaron diferencias significativas por género en las escalas de satisfacción laboral, las mujeres mostraron niveles ligeramente más altos. Asimismo, se observó una tendencia decreciente en la satisfacción laboral con el paso de los años de servicio, sugiriendo que los agentes más antiguos y experimentados experimentan una satisfacción laboral menor, aunque reportaron estar más satisfechos con los beneficios económicos. A pesar del mayor estrés operacional, los agentes en funciones operativas mostraron mayor satisfacción, posiblemente debido al reconocimiento institucional y social durante la pandemia. Estos hallazgos resaltan la relevancia de atender tanto las condiciones laborales como los aspectos sociales y emocionales para asegurar un ambiente de trabajo satisfactorio para los miembros de la fuerza policial.
Entrenamiento deportivo para fortalecer fundamentos técnicos del voleibol en alumnas del nivel secundario
Authors:   Ministerio de Educacion de la República Dominicana, Durán Ángel Luis , Jiménez Yoniel de Jesús ,   Ministerio de Educacion de la República Dominicana
Published: July 2024

La presente investigación se planteó el objetivo de implementar un programa de entrenamiento deportivo diseñado para fortalecer los fundamentos técnicos del voleibol en el equipo femenino del Centro Educativo Profesor Francisco Antonio Vásquez, ubicado en el Distrito Educativo 08-09, Tamboril, República Dominicana. La investigación adoptó un enfoque cuantitativo mediante un diseño cuasi experimental, la población estuvo compuesta por las 14 estudiantes que conformaban el equipo de voleibol del centro educativo. Para la recolección de datos, se empleó la observación directa como técnica. Con relación al instrumento, se seleccionó la rúbrica analítica, a fin de registrar los resultados de las pruebas tanto en la fase de pre-test como en la de post-test. Los principales resultados en la fase del pre-test, evidenciaron que las estudiantes manifestaban ciertas debilidades con relación a los fundamentos técnicos del voleibol más aún en el servicio y remate del balón, no obstante, algunas alumnas lograron mejorar de forma moderada tales aspectos después de participar de forma activa en el entrenamiento y recibir nuevamente la prueba en la fase del pos-test. Referente a las conclusiones, con estas se logró determinar que la participación activa en el entrenamiento hizo una diferencia significativa, debido a que las estudiantes que no se involucraron completamente en las sesiones obtuvieron resultados más bajos en comparación con aquellas que sí lo hicieron.
Detection of Non-Formalin Food Additives Acid Compounds in Food Using Purple Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lamb) Anthocyanins
Authors: Fauziyah Riska Nurul , Restiyani Fauziah , Yuliastuti, E.S Eko
Published: July 2024

Purpose – Formalin in food can be detected using anthocyanin pigments in purple sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lamb). Anthocyanins turn red or pink on contact with acidic formalin. Concerns arise about similar color changes with other acidic compounds. Thus, this study examines anthocyanin reactions with various acidic compounds—Food Additives Acids: acetic, lactic, citric, phosphoric, ascorbic, benzoic, and tartaric acid. 
Methodology –This simple experiment involved 7 test samples and 1 control (formalin). Sample concentrations adhered to BPOM guidelines, and pH levels were measured. Purple sweet potatoes were mixed 1:1 with distilled water. 5 mL of each sample was combined with anthocyanin drops in separate test tubes (10 mL total volume). Observations tracked color change duration (735.40 seconds). pH was measured again post-observation.
Findings – Results showed red coloration in lactic, phosphoric, and acetic acid samples—not always indicating formalin. pH changes after anthocyanin addition can quantitatively detect formalin and acid samples.
Originality – This research has never been conducted before. Previous studies only focused on the detection of formalin acid compounds in food, not about acidic food additives.
Identification of the Role of Kitchen and the Use of Traditional Cooking Tools in the Eating Culture of the Baduy Tribe Community
Authors: Lestari Ayu , Muhammad Shofyan  , Mutiara Ulfah
Published: July 2024

Baduy is one of the tribes in Indonesia that applies a living system in line with the principle of preserving nature. This principle is involved in agriculture and daily life, one of which is in cooking utensils. This study was conducted to determine the culture of cooking in the Baduy community by identifying the role of the traditional kitchen and the use of conventional cooking utensils. The research was conducted in Baduy Luar Village (Kadugketug Village, Balimbing Village) and Baduy Dalam (Cibeo Village) Kanekes Village, Leuwidimar District, Lebak Regency, Banten Province. Data was collected using field observation and interviews with community leaders and the Baduy community. The results showed that the traditional Baduy kitchen functions as a place to cook, store kitchen utensils, store foodstuffs (rice, firewood, and vegetables), a place to eat, and a place to carry out traditional ceremonies. The Baduy community has a kitchen and food culture that still maintains the values of local wisdom. It can be seen in kitchen utensils and traditional tableware made from natural materials such as clay (Hawu, barrels, traditional mortar, and braziers), wood (trays, kelaci, centong, cutting boards, matches, sulu, kalo), bamboo (haseupan, boboko, hihid, nyiru, and lodong), and coconut shells. some other equipment made from the chopper (seeng), stainless steel (kekenceng and pariuk).
Dynamics of HSD17B3 expression in human fetal testis: implications for the role of Sertoli cells in fetal testosterone biosynthesis
Authors: Planinic Ana , Maric Tihana , Himelreich Peric Marta , Jezek Davor , Katusic Bojanac Ana
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Androgens play a pivotal role in shaping male sexual characteristics, with testosterone being an essential hormone in orchestrating various developmental processes. Testosterone biosynthesis involves a series of enzymatic reactions, among which the 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 (HSD17B3) holds significance. While its role in adult Leydig cells is well established, its localization and importance during the fetal period remain less known, especially in humans. This study aims to delineate the dynamics of HSD17B3 expression in human fetal testes to clarify the contribution of specific cell types to testosterone biosynthesis.

Methods: Using immunofluorescence staining, we investigated the expression pattern of HSD17B3 in human fetal and adult testicular tissues.

Results and discussion: The findings of this study revealed a distinct temporal and cellular expression pattern of HSD17B3 protein in the fetal period. We detected its expression exclusively in Sertoli cells, the highest during the second trimester. This unique localization suggests the inclusion of fetal Sertoli cells in testosterone production during the critical masculinization-programming window. Furthermore, we demonstrated a shift in HSD17B3 expression from Sertoli cells to Leydig cells in adulthood, corroborating findings from rodent studies. This study sheds light on the intricate, still underexplored regulation of steroidogenesis during fetal development, whose disturbance might lead to testicular dysgenesis. Further research is warranted to elucidate the regulatory pathways governing the expression of HSD17B3 and its transition between Sertoli and Leydig cells, potentially paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions in disorders of sexual development.
Update on clinical and experimental management of diabetic cardiomyopathy: addressing current and future therapy
Authors: Galis Peter , Bartosova Linda , Farkasova Veronika , Bartekova Monika , Ferenczyova Kristina , Rajtik Tomas
Published: July 2024

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a severe secondary complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) that is diagnosed as a heart disease occurring in the absence of any previous cardiovascular pathology in diabetic patients. Although it is still lacking an exact definition as it combines aspects of both pathologies – T2DM and heart failure, more evidence comes forward that declares DCM as one complex disease that should be treated separately. It is the ambiguous pathological phenotype, symptoms or biomarkers that makes DCM hard to diagnose and screen for its early onset. This re-view provides an updated look on the novel advances in DCM diagnosis and treatment in the experimental and clinical settings. Management of patients with DCM proposes a challenge by itself and we aim to help navigate and advice clinicians with early screening and pharmacotherapy of DCM.
Nationwide cost and capacity estimates for sedimentary basin geothermal power and implications for geologic CO2 storage
Authors: Cairncross Emily , Ogland-Hand Jonathan D. , Adams Benjamin M. , Middleton Richard S.
Published: July 2024

Introduction: Sedimentary basins are naturally porous and permeable subsurface formations that underlie approximately half of the United States. In addition to being targets for geologic CO2 storage, these resources could supply geothermal power: sedimentary basin geothermal heat can be extracted with water or CO2 and used to generate electricity. The geothermal power potential of these basins and the accompanying implication for geologic CO2 storage are, however, understudied.

Methods: Here, we use the Sequestration of CO2 Tool (SCO2TPRO) and the generalizable GEOthermal techno-economic simulator (genGEO) to address this gap by a) estimating the cost and capacity of sedimentary basin geothermal power plants across the United States and b) comparing those results to nationwide CO2 sequestration cost and storage potential estimates.

Results and discussion: We find that across the United States, using CO2 as a geothermal heat extraction fluid reduces the cost of sedimentary basin power compared to using water, and some of the lowest cost capacity occurs in locations not typically considered for their geothermal resources (e.g., Louisiana, South Dakota). Additionally, using CO2 effectively doubles the sedimentary basin geothermal resource base, equating to hundreds of gigawatts of new capacity, by enabling electricity generation in geologies that are otherwise (with water) too impermeable, too thin, too cold, or not deep enough. We find there is competition for the best sedimentary basin resources between water- and CO2-based power, but no overlap between the lowest-cost resources for CO2 storage and CO2-based power. In this way, our results suggest that deploying CO2-based power may increase the cost of water based systems (by using the best resources) and the cost of CO2 storage (by storing CO2 in locations that otherwise may not be targeted). As such, our findings demonstrate that determining the best role for sedimentary basins within the energy transition may require balancing tradeoffs between competing priorities.
A green revolution in the making: integrating environmental performance and green finance for China’s sustainable development
Authors: Jinping Li , Zeeshan Muhammad , Rehman Alam , Uktamov Khusniddin
Published: July 2024

Green finance initiatives are encouraged in the world to attain green economic milestones. Therefore, it is the centered area of research for the plethora of researchers across the globe. Instead of this significant transition to green finance, the study analyzed the Chinese data to explore the relationship between Green Finance, Green Technology innovation, and Environmental Performance from 2003 to 2022 in the Chinese context. We preferred the CS-ARDL and panel Quantile regression models for exploring our hypothesis and to examine the relationship of these variables. Our results validated that both green finance and green technology innovation have positive effects in both the long-term and short-term on the environmental performance in numerous Chinese cities. The statistical results showed that Green Finance and Green technology innovation reduce the amount of CO2 emission. Hence our results confirmed that both Green Finance and green technology innovations are significantly contributing to the environmental quality of China as the selected cities considered for the study investigation are considerably more driven towards green initiatives. This research also discussed the potential for implementing policy interventions in the future to leverage the adoption of green technology and make a significant impact on the world’s environmental quality as China is the biggest emitter of CO2 emissions. The study places and puts forward valuable insights to the regulatory bodies that would likely help them in achieving sustainable milestones and would contribute to their long-term strategic landscape for the attainment of environmental objectives and heights.
Trend analysis of long-time series habitat quality in Beijing based on multiple models
Authors: Wei Jiaming , Jin Yi , Tan Qilin , Liu Fei , Ding Chi , Li Tiantian , Luo Ji , Hu Chen , Cui Xiaohong , Liu Yuheng , Zheng Xiaoyi , Zhang Guiwei
Published: July 2024

This study selects Beijing from 1980 to 2020 as the research area, utilizing high temporal resolution land use data to analyze through the habitat quality module of the InVEST model. Unlike previous research, this study employs the Theil-Sen Median method and Mann-Kendall test to analyze the trend changes in habitat quality more accurately. This method has significant advantages in dealing with non-linear and non-normally distributed data over long time series, providing a more accurate and reliable analysis of habitat quality trends. Methodologically, the study first collects and organizes the land use type data of Beijing from 1980 to 2020, then uses the habitat quality module of the InVEST model to process and analyze the data of each year, assessing the impact of different land use types on habitat quality. Subsequently, the Theil-Sen Median method and Mann-Kendall test are used to analyze the time series trend of habitat quality, to identify and quantify the trend and significance of habitat quality changes. The results show that over the past 40 years, the area of construction land in Beijing has significantly expanded, leading to a compression of other types of land. The spatial distribution of habitat quality shows a clear difference between the two sides divided by a line connecting the northeast and southwest, with the west side being the area of good habitat quality and the east side being poorer. In the past 10 years, the overall habitat quality has improved, but most areas still show a decreasing trend, especially in the western and northern mountainous areas where habitat quality has significantly declined. Based on these findings, it is recommended that future urban planning and land management should pay more attention to the protection and improvement of habitat quality, especially the restoration work for areas with poor habitat quality.
Identification and validation of ferroptosis related markers in erythrocyte differentiation of umbilical cord blood-derived CD34+ cell by bioinformatic analysis
Authors: Liu Qian , Lin Ze , Yue Minghui , Wu Jianbo , Li Lei , Huang Daqi , Fang Yipeng , Zhang Xin , Hao Tao
Published: July 2024

Ferroptosis has been observed to play an important role during erythrocyte differentiation (ED). However, the biological gene markers and ferroptosis mechanisms in ED remain unknown. We downloaded the datasets of ED in human umbilical cord blood-derived CD34+ cells from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. Using median differentiation time, the sample was categorized into long and short groups. The differentially expressed ferroptosis-related genes (DE-FRGs) were screened using differential expression analysis. The enrichment analyses and a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network were conducted. To predict the ED stage, a logistic regression model was constructed using the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO). Overall, 22 DE-FRGs were identified. Ferroptosis-related pathways were enriched using Gene Ontology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and Gene Set Variation Analysis revealed the primary involvement of DE-FRGs in JAK-STAT, MAPK, PI3K-AKT-mTORC1, WNT, and NOTCH signaling pathways. Ten-hub DE-FRGs were obtained using PPI analysis. Furthermore, we constructed mRNA-microRNA (miRNA) and mRNA-transcription factor networks. Immune cell infiltration levels differed significantly during ED. LASSO regression analysis established a signature using six DE-FRGs (ATF3, CDH2, CHAC1, DDR2, DPP4, and GDF15) related to the ED stage. Bioinformatic analyses identified ferroptosis-associated genes during ED, which were further validated. Overall, we identified ferroptosis-related genes to predict their correlations in ED. Exploring the underlying mechanisms of ferroptosis may help us better understand pathophysiological changes in ED and provide new evidence for clinical transformation.
Advances in immunotherapy for mucosal melanoma: harnessing immune checkpoint inhibitors for improved treatment outcomes
Authors: Shan Zexing , Liu Fei
Published: July 2024

Mucosal melanoma (MM) poses a significant clinical challenge due to its aggressive nature and limited treatment options. In recent years, immunotherapy has emerged as a promising strategy for MM, with a particular focus on immune checkpoint inhibitors such as PD-1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors. These inhibitors have demonstrated substantial efficacy by harnessing the body’s immune response against tumors. Moreover, adoptive cell transfer (ACT), anti-angiogenic therapy, and combination therapies have garnered attention for their potential in MM treatment. ACT involves modifying T cells to target melanoma cells, showing promising antitumor activity. Anti-angiogenic therapy aims to impede tumor growth by inhibiting angiogenesis, while combination therapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted therapies, offer a multifaceted approach to overcome treatment resistance. This comprehensive review explores the advancements in immunotherapy for MM, highlighting the role of diverse therapeutic modalities in enhancing treatment outcomes and addressing the challenges posed by this aggressive malignancy.
Therapeutic role of extracellular vesicles from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells and their wide therapeutic implications in inflammatory bowel disease and other inflammatory disorder
Authors: Din Muhammad Azhar Ud , Wan Aijun , Chu Ying , Zhou Jing , Yan Yongmin , Xu Zhiliang
Published: July 2024

The chronic immune-mediated inflammatory condition known as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) significantly affects the gastrointestinal system. While the precise etiology of IBD remains elusive, extensive research suggests that a range of pathophysiological pathways and immunopathological mechanisms may significantly contribute as potential factors. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have shown significant potential in the development of novel therapeutic approaches for various medical conditions. However, some MSCs have been found to exhibit tumorigenic characteristics, which limit their potential for medical treatments. The extracellular vesicles (EVs), paracrine factors play a crucial role in the therapeutic benefits conferred by MSCs. The EVs consist of proteins, microRNAs, and lipids, and are instrumental in facilitating intercellular communication. Due to the ease of maintenance, and decreased immunogenicity, tumorigenicity the EVs have become a new and exciting option for whole cell treatment. This review comprehensively assesses recent preclinical research on human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUC-MSC)-derived EVs as a potential IBD therapy. It comprehensively addresses key aspects of various conditions, including diabetes, cancer, dermal injuries, neurological disorders, cardiovascular issues, liver and kidney diseases, and bone-related afflictions.
Impaired olfactory performance and anxiety-like behavior in a rat model of multiple sclerosis are associated with enhanced adenosine signaling in the olfactory bulb via A1R, A2BR, and A3R
Authors: Stekic Andjela , Dragic Milorad , Stanojevic Jelena , Zaric Kontic Marina , Stevanovic Ivana , Zeljkovic Jovanovic Milica , Mihajlovic Katarina , Nedeljkovic Nadezda
Published: July 2024

The present study shows that animals with experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) exhibit olfactory dysfunction and impaired general cognitive abilities, as well as anxiety-like behavior. Olfactory dysfunction occurs on average at 2 dpi, well before the onset of the first motor signs of EAE (8–10 dpi). After the initial olfactory dysfunction, the EAE animals show a fluctuation in olfactory performance that resembles the relapsing–remitting course of human MS. The study also shows severe neuroinflammation in the olfactory bulb (OB), with numerous infiltrated CD4+ T cells and peripheral macrophages in the superficial OB layers, marked microgliosis, and massive induction of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. Reduced tyrosine hydroxylase activity in the glomerular layer, pronounced granule cell atrophy, and reduced numbers of type B neuroblasts in the rostral migratory stream also indicate altered plasticity of the neuronal network in the OB. Considering the exceptionally high purinome expression in the OB, the possible involvement of purinergic signaling was also investigated. The study shows that macrophages infiltrating the OB overexpress A3R, while highly reactive microglia overexpress the adenosine-producing enzyme eN/CD73 as well as A2BR, A3R, and P2X4R. Given the simultaneous induction of complement component C3, the results suggest that the microglial cells develop a functional phenotype of phagocytizing microglia. The study also demonstrates transcriptional and translational upregulation of A1R in mitral and tufted cells, which likely influence resting network activity in OB and likely contribute to olfactory dysfunction in EAE. Overall, our study shows that olfactory dysfunction and altered social and cognitive behavior in EAE are associated with increased adenosine signaling via A1R, A2BR, and A3R.
The plasma lipids with different fatty acid chains are associated with the risk of hemorrhagic stroke: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Xingkai , Zhu Xiaoyu , Shi Qinghai
Published: July 2024

Background and objective

Hemorrhagic stroke, characterized by acute bleeding due to cerebrovascular lesions, is associated with plasma lipids and endothelial damage. The causal relationship between genetic plasma lipid levels and hemorrhagic stroke remains unclear. This study employs a two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis to explore the causal relationship between plasma lipid profiles with different fatty acid chains and the risk of intracerebral and subarachnoid hemorrhage, the two main subtypes of hemorrhagic stroke.

Methods

The datasets for exposure and outcome summary statistics were obtained from publicly available sources such as the GWAS Catalog, IEU OpenGWAS project, and FinnGen. The two-sample MR analysis was employed to initially assess the causal relationship between 179 plasma lipid species and the risk of intracerebral and subarachnoid hemorrhage in the Finnish population, leading to the identification of candidate lipids. The same methods were applied to reanalyze data from European populations and conduct a meta-analysis of the candidate lipids. The Inverse Variance Weighting (IVW) method served as the primary analysis for causal inference, with additional methods used for complementary analyses. Sensitivity analysis was conducted to clarify causal relationships and reduce biases.

Results

Two analyses using Mendelian randomization were performed, followed by meta-analyses of the results. A causal relationship was established between 11 specific lipid species and the occurrence of intracerebral hemorrhage within the European population. Additionally, 5 distinct lipid species were associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Predominantly, lipids with linoleic acid and arachidonic acid side chains were identified. Notably, lipids containing arachidonic acid chains (C20:4) such as PC 18:1;0_20:4;0 consistently showed a decreased risk of both intracerebral hemorrhage [p < 0.001; OR(95% CI) = 0.892(0.835–0.954)] and subarachnoid hemorrhage [p = 0.002; OR(95% CI) = 0.794(0.689–0.916)]. Conversely, lipids with linoleic acid chains (C18:2) were associated with an increased risk of intracerebral hemorrhage.

Conclusion

This study identifies a potential causal relationship between lipids with different fatty acid side chains and the risk of intracerebral and subarachnoid hemorrhagic stroke, improving the understanding of the mechanisms behind the onset and progression of hemorrhagic stroke.
NMR-based plant metabolomics protocols: a step-by-step guide
Authors: Ocampos Fernanda M. M. , de Souza Ana Julia B. , Ribeiro Gabriel H. , Almeida Luísa S. , Cônsolo Nara R. B. , Colnago Luiz Alberto
Published: July 2024

Metabolomics is one of the “omics” sciences that can reveal the metabolic phenotype of organisms. This capability makes it a valuable tool for plant investigation, as plants present a vast chemical diversity. From the analytical point of view, two main techniques are frequently used in metabolomics and are often complementary: Mass spectrometry (MS) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. Here, we describe NMR and its applications in plant metabolomics. We start by contextualizing the research field to then explore study design, sample collection, sample preparation, NMR data acquisition, and data analysis, showing the key features for achieving quality and relevant results. Within these topics, the most common databases used for plant metabolites identification and assignments are listed, as these help to shorten the laborious task of metabolomics investigation of natural products. Concerning NMR parameters, we discuss the key pulse sequences, recommend acquisition parameters, and examine the data each sequence can provide. Similarly, we delve into data analysis, highlighting the most commonly used chemometric methods and how to achieve high-quality results. Therefore, this review aims to provide a comprehensive guide for NMR-based metabolomics analysis of plants.
Current dilemma and future directions over prophylactic cranial irradiation in SCLC: a systematic review in MRI and immunotherapy era
Authors: Tang Lingrong , Tian Guangwei , Li Nan
Published: July 2024

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is the most malignant pathological type of lung cancer with the highest mortality, and the incidence of brain metastasis (BM) is in high frequency. So far, prophylactic cranial irradiation (PCI) has been suggested as an effective treatment for preventing brain metastasis of SCLC. PCI has long been applied to limited-stage SCLC (LS-SCLC) patients who have achieved complete remission after radiotherapy and chemotherapy as a standard treatment. However, the neurocognitive decline is a major concern surrounding PCI. New therapeutic approaches targeting PCI-induced neurotoxicity, including hippocampal protection or memantine, have been increasingly incorporated into the therapeutic interventions of PCI. Helical tomotherapy, RapidArc, and Volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) with a head-tilting baseplate are recommended for hippocampal protection. Besides, in the MRI and immunotherapy era, the significance of PCI in SCLC patients is controversial. SCLC patients with PCI should be recruited in clinical trials since this is the only way to improve the existing standard of care. This review summarizes the current therapeutic strategy and dilemma over PCI for SCLC, providing a theoretical basis for clinical decision-making and suggestions for PCI practice in clinical.
Differential gene expression and pathway analysis in growth hormone-secreting pituitary tumors according to granulation pattern
Authors: Kim Kyungwon , Kim Yeongmin , Kim Se Hoon , Moon Ju Hyung , Kim Eui Hyun , Lee Eun Jig , Oh Chang-Myung , Ku Cheol Ryong
Published: July 2024

This study investigated differential gene expression between granulation patterns in growth hormone (GH)-secreting pituitary tumors, aiming to elucidate novel transcriptomes that explain clinical variances in patients with acromegaly. Transcriptome analysis was conducted on 6 normal pituitary tissues and 15 GH-secreting pituitary tumors, including 9 densely granulated somatotroph tumors (DGSTs) and 6 sparsely granulated somatotroph tumors (SGSTs). We identified 3111 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in tumors compared to normal pituitaries, with 1117 DEGs unique to a specific granulation within tumors. SGST showed enrichment of neuronal development and acute inflammatory response pathways, along with a significant enhancement of JAK–STAT, phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase, and MAPK signaling. The results suggest that granulation-specific gene expression may underpin diverse clinical presentations in acromegaly, highlighting the potential for further investigation into these transcriptomic variations and their roles in disease pathology, particularly the involvement of genes linked to neuronal development, inflammatory response, and JAK–STAT signaling in SGST.
The CIMMYT Australia ICARDA Germplasm Evaluation concept: a model for international cooperation and impact
Authors: Trethowan Richard M. , Nicol Julie M. , Singh Amit , Singh Ravi P. , Tadesse Wuletaw , Govidan Velu , Crespo-Herrera Leonardo , Cullis Brian , Mazur Luke , Dieters Mark , Micallef Sandra , Farrell Terence , Wilson Robin , Mathews Ky
Published: July 2024

Bread wheat germplasm is accessed from the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre (CIMMYT) and the International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) by Australian wheat breeders and researchers through the CIMMYT Australia ICARDA Germplasm Evaluation (CAIGE) program. The CAIGE program coordinates the selection, importation, quarantine, dissemination, and evaluation of the imported bread wheat germplasm and the management of associated data and information. This paper describes the CAIGE model and assesses both the genetic and economic impacts of these materials on the Australian wheat industry after commercialisation of wheat breeding in the early 21st century and the establishment of CAIGE. The CAIGE concept was validated using data collected and analysed from multi-environment trials between 2017 and 2020. The impact of cultivars with and without CAIGE contribution to pedigree on yield was estimated using production-by-variety statistics. Net gain in yield, estimated as the yield difference between CAIGE and Non-CAIGE varieties, was multiplied by the percentage contribution to pedigree to estimate the additional yield. The CAIGE bread wheat program identified diverse, high-yielding, and disease-resistant germplasm and significantly improved the capture and dissemination of information. The benefit-cost ratio, calculated as the sum of benefits divided by investments, indicated that, for every dollar invested in CAIGE, a further $20 was generated in benefits. The internal rate of return was estimated at 163% and the modified rate at 18%. The benefits of these international materials to Australian wheat breeding remained significant.
The effects of physical activity on adolescents’ depression: evidence from China
Authors: Chen Hongmei , Liu Meng , Zhao Wenqing , Wei Hanlin , Zhang Ying , Li Shunguo
Published: July 2024

Background

Depression is becoming a common threat to the mental health of Chinese adolescents. As an intermediate stage between being healthy and having depression, identifying factors influencing depressive may contribute to providing more options for the prevention and treatment of depression.

Objective

The study aims to explore the effects of physical activity on adolescent depression, focusing on the times and hours of activity per week.

Methods

The study used a cross-sectional dataset collected in Ruyang County, Henan Province in September 2022, including a sample of 5,629 adolescents in 31 compulsory public schools in the county. We utilized Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) to analyze the impact of physical activity on adolescents’ depression scores, and probit model to analyze the influence of physical activity on adolescents’ depression. To examine whether there is a U-shaped relationship between physical activity and depression, we included the squared terms of times and hours of activity in models.

Results

The results showed that: (1) The times of physical activity significantly reduces Chinese adolescent depression. An increase in physical activity by one time per week is associated with a mean decrease of 0.354 points in depression scores (p < 0.01). However, an increase of one time of physical activity per week is associated with an average 1% increase in the likelihood of experiencing depression(p < 0.05), while the hours of physical activity was statistically insignificant. (2) Physical activity has a U-shaped (not linear) relationship with adolescent depression, with 7–8 times per week or 7–9 h of physical activity per week being the optimal range.

Conclusion

The study found that increasing the frequency of physical activity positively impacts adolescent depression, while increasing the hours does not show a significant association. Furthermore, a U-shaped relationship exists between times of activity, hours of activity, and adolescent depression, suggesting that moderate activity is optimal.
Point-of-care Testing HbA1c screening for type 2 diabetes in urban and rural areas of China: a cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Shao Qing , Xie Xinglei , Wang Liu , Gao Lanyu , Hu Yuchen , Zhang Yuwei
Published: July 2024

Background

Point-of-care Testing (POCT) glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is a convenient, cheap, effective and accessible screening method for type 2 diabetes in rural areas and community settings that is widely used in the European region and Japan, but not yet widespread in China. The study is the first to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of POCT HbA1c, fasting capillary glucose (FCG), and venous blood HbA1c to screen for type 2 diabetes in urban and rural areas of China, and to identify the best socio-economically beneficial screening strategy.

Methods

Based on urban and rural areas in China, economic models for type 2 diabetes screening were constructed from a social perspective. The subjects of this study were adults aged 18–80 years with undiagnosed type 2 diabetes. Three screening strategies were established for venous blood HbA1c, FCG and POCT HbA1c, and cost-effectiveness analysis was performed by Markov models. One-way sensitivity analysis and probabilistic sensitivity analysis were performed on all parameters of the model to verify the stability of the results.

Results

Compared with FCG, POCT HbA1c was cost-effective with an incremental cost-utility ratio (ICUR) of $500.06/quality-adjusted life year (QALY) in urban areas and an ICUR of $185.10/QALY in rural areas, within the willingness-to-pay threshold (WTP = $37,653). POCT HbA1c was cost-effective with lower cost and higher utility compared with venous blood HbA1c in both urban and rural areas. In the comparison of venous blood HbA1c and FCG, venous blood HbA1c was cost-effective (ICUR = $20,833/QALY) in urban areas but not in rural areas (ICUR = $41,858/QALY). Sensitivity analyses showed that the results of the study were stable and credible.

Conclusions

POCT HbA1c was cost-effective for type 2 diabetes screening in both urban and rural areas of China, which could be considered for future clinical practice in China. Factors such as geographic location, local financial situation and resident compliance needed to be considered when making the choice of venous blood HbA1c or FCG.
The methane imperative
Authors: Shindell Drew , Sadavarte Pankaj , Aben Ilse , Bredariol Tomás de Oliveira , Dreyfus Gabrielle , Höglund-Isaksson Lena , Poulter Benjamin , Saunois Marielle , Schmidt Gavin A. , Szopa Sophie , Rentz Kendra , Parsons Luke , Qu Zhen , Faluvegi Gregory , Maasakkers Joannes D.
Published: July 2024

Anthropogenic methane (CH4) emissions increases from the period 1850–1900 until 2019 are responsible for around 65% as much warming as carbon dioxide (CO2) has caused to date, and large reductions in methane emissions are required to limit global warming to 1.5°C or 2°C. However, methane emissions have been increasing rapidly since ~2006. This study shows that emissions are expected to continue to increase over the remainder of the 2020s if no greater action is taken and that increases in atmospheric methane are thus far outpacing projected growth rates. This increase has important implications for reaching net zero CO2 targets: every 50 Mt CH4 of the sustained large cuts envisioned under low-warming scenarios that are not realized would eliminate about 150 Gt of the remaining CO2 budget. Targeted methane reductions are therefore a critical component alongside decarbonization to minimize global warming. We describe additional linkages between methane mitigation options and CO2, especially via land use, as well as their respective climate impacts and associated metrics. We explain why a net zero target specifically for methane is neither necessary nor plausible. Analyses show where reductions are most feasible at the national and sectoral levels given limited resources, for example, to meet the Global Methane Pledge target, but they also reveal large uncertainties. Despite these uncertainties, many mitigation costs are clearly low relative to real-world financial instruments and very low compared with methane damage estimates, but legally binding regulations and methane pricing are needed to meet climate goals.
Genome-wide analysis of HACD family genes and functional characterization of GhHACD2 for very long chain fatty acids biosynthesis in Gossypium hirsutum
Authors: Yan Minwen , Xi Hongyuan , Hu Shiyin , Song Jikun , Jia Bing , Feng Pan , Yang Liupeng , Ma Jianjiang , Wang Li , Pei Wenfeng , Zhang Bingbing , Yu Jiwen , Wu Man , Hu Shoulin
Published: July 2024

Cotton (Gossypium spp.) not only serves as a primary textile fiber crop but also as a vital oilseed crop. It stands as the world’s fifth-largest oil crop and is rich in essential fatty acids. At present, the mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis of cottonseed oil have been extensively studied in cotton. 3-Hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydratase (HACD) is the third rate-limiting enzyme in the elongase complex, which plays a critical role in the biosynthesis of Very Long Chain Fatty Acids (VLCFA). However, the members of the HACD family and their roles in cottonseed oil remain uncharacterized in cotton. This study identified that G. arboreum and G. raimondii have two HACD genes, while four HACD genes exists in G. hirsutum, and G. barbadense. The phylogenetic relationships of the 12 HACD genes from the four cotton species further divided them into two subfamilies. Gene structure and conserved motif analysis revealed that members of the HACD family were relatively conserved during the evolution of cotton, but members within the same subfamily exhibited more similar structures. Homology and collinearity analysis suggest whole-genome duplication/segmental duplication may be a key factor in the amplification of the cotton HACD gene family. The qRT-PCR analysis of high-oil and low-oil genotype found significant differences in the expression levels of GhHACD1-4, which indicates GhHACD1-4 is expected to participate in the lipid oil biosynthesis process. Subcellular localization experiments confirmed the presence of the GhHACD2 inendoplasmic reticulum. The KEGG pathway enrichment analysis of co-expressed genes of GhHACD1 and GhHACD2 genes were conducted to confirm their potential involvement in fatty acid elongation and oil biosynthesis. Furthermore, transgenic overexpression analysis of GhHACD2 caused a 5.02% decrease in oil content compared with the control in yeast, while the levels of C28:0, C30:0, and VLCFAs were significantly improved. This study characterizes HACD gene family members in cotton and provides rich genetic resources for increasing cottonseed oil content and improving the nutritional value of cottonseed oil.
Wariat, psychopata, świr. Medialny obraz osób z zaburzeniami psychicznymi na podstawie przykładów z prasy codziennej
Authors: Krawczyński Łukasz
Published: July 2024

The article presents the results of an analysis of the representations of people with mental disorders in the media, based on texts from the Polish national daily press. The analysis has shown that people with mental disorders are mostly portrayed in a negative context: either as overly emotional (beasts) or as people guided by pure reason (machines). Diff erences were also found in the description of psychopaths (charismatic, friendly) and madmen (dark, withdrawn, scary).
Piezoelectric Linear Motors with Alternating Action for Motion Servo System of Probe Station
Authors: Huang Lin , Wang Yin , Cheng Fang , Yu Qing , Huang Weiqing
Published: July 2024

The development of a piezoelectric linear motor is presented in this paper, based on the principle of alternating motion, to meet the acting stroke and accuracy requirements for the probe station’s motion servo system. By partitioning the stator into tangential and normal components, two tangential actuators are affixed to the base, while two normal actuators are fixed on the preloading mechanism, thereby proposing a novel approach for connecting the stator and base. First, the construction and the working principle of the motor were introduced. Subsequently, the motor’s major components were designed through finite element simulation, followed by modeling the motor dynamics and deriving its displacement transfer function. Finally, an experimental prototype was fabricated, and a prototype test system was constructed. The driving method can realize a large stroke operation at a low frequency. The minimum operating frequency of the motor is 1 Hz, the minimum step is 12.55 μm, and the stroke is 105 mm. The study results will promote the development of high-performance probe systems.
Theoretical Investigation of Laser Ablation Propulsion Using Micro-Scale Fluid in Atmosphere
Authors: Mao Chentao , Jiang Luyun , Du Baosheng , Zheng Yongzan , Cui Haichao , Wang Diankai , Ye Jifei , Han Jianhui , Hong Yanji
Published: July 2024

Laser ablation propulsion based on liquid propellants is a type of propulsion technology with a high specific impulse and good controllability that can be applied to space thrusters, gas metal arc welding, and extreme ultraviolet light. However, its basic mechanisms, such as flow evolution and thrust formation, have not yet been described in detail. In this study, the laser ablation of micro-scale fluid in the atmosphere was investigated. Flow evolution with different laser energy and fluid mass was observed using a schlieren system. According to the characteristic of flow evolution, a theoretical model of laser ablation propulsion in the atmosphere was established. For the first time, a theoretical hypothesis was proposed that the laser energy is divided into two parts, which act on fluid and air respectively. The model indicates that the impulses generated by fluids and air follow power laws with the laser energy, while the exponentials are 0.5 and 1, respectively. In the atmosphere, due to the shielding effect of a laser-maintained detonation wave on laser, the energy absorbed by the fluid is basically unchanged, while only the energy absorbed by the air changes. Significantly, the theoretical model is consistent with the impulse experiment and current studies.
ICT and Agricultural Development in South Africa: An Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag Approach
Authors: Matsvai Simion , Hosu Yiseyon
Published: July 2024

The use of Information Communication Technology (ICT) forms a significant component of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). This study examined the impact of ICT on agricultural development in South Africa utilizing time series data from 1995 to 2022. Agricultural development was measured through agricultural output and agriculture total factor productivity as dependent variables. Traditional factors of production (land, labor, and capital) together with ICT variables (mobile cellphone subscriptions, Internet usage, and fixed telephone subscriptions) were used. Additional variables such as inflation, human development, access to energy and climate change were used. Data analysis was performed using the ARDL approach. The findings revealed that mobile phone subscriptions and Internet usage positively affect agricultural output and ATFP in the short and long run despite having a negative effect through the second lag in the short run. Fixed telephone subscriptions negatively affect ATFP in the long run while affecting output negatively in the short run through the first lag. Land, human development index, access to energy, and capital generally exhibited an increasing effect on both agricultural output and ATFP both in the short and long run through the various models estimated. Climate change and inflation were generally found to affect both agricultural output and ATFP negatively in the short and long run. The study concluded that ICT plays a significant role in promoting agricultural output and total factor productivity growth. Recommendations included that the South African government should promote the digitalization of the agriculture sector through the provision of ICT infrastructure that can be utilized by both smallholder farmers and large-scale agricultural producers.