bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Siyaset, Toplum ve Sermaye Üçgeninde Medya: 28 Şubat Darbesi
Authors: Erkal Kürşad , Temel Faruk
Published: May 2024

28 Şubat süreci, Türkiye’de medyanın erkler arasındaki rolleri ve topluma dönük etkinlikleri bakımından özgün bir nitelik taşımaktadır. 28 Şubat sürecinde medya; ordu, yargı, STK, sermaye grupları ve çeşitli odaklarla kurduğu karmaşık ilişkilerin neticesi olarak seçilmiş hükümete yönelik manipülatif bir yayıncılık anlayışını benimsemiştir. Medyanın bu süreçteki etkinlikleri dördüncü güç şeklinde tanımlanan medyayı, demokratik sistemlerde medyaya biçilen rollerin uzağında bir konuma taşımıştır. Bu bağlamda 28 Şubat darbesi özelinde medyanın erkler arasındaki konumlanışı ve çeşitli pratiklerinin tanımlanması, medya etkinliklerinin nedenlerinin açıklanması araştırmanın temel sorusu olarak ortaya çıkmaktadır. Bu çerçevede araştırma medyanın siyaset, kamu ve sermaye üçgeninde hangi rolü yerine getirdiği sorusu doğrultusunda medyanın 28 Şubat sürecindeki pratiklerinin tespit edilmesini amaçlamaktadır. Araştırma; gazete içerikleri, dönemin aktörlerinin görüşleri ve alan yazında birikmiş veri doğrultusunda dokuman analizini esas alan niteliksel bir yaklaşımı benimsemektedir. Çalışma sonuç olarak medyanın demokratik sistemlerde durması gereken özgürlükçü alanı terk ettiğini ve toplum yerine başka güç odaklarına yaslandığını ortaya koyarken medyanın kamu, siyaset ve sermaye üçlüsü arasındaki konumlanışının kamu adına değil, başkaca güç unsurlarının taleplerini siyaset kurumuna dayatan otoriter görünümde işlev taşıdığını göstermektedir.
Peningkatan Kompetensi Guru Melalui Pelatihan dan Pendampingan Pembuatan Media Pembelajaran Inovatif Berbasis Pembelajaran Daring
Authors: Ratna Widyastuti  , Izzah Abidatul , Alhamri Rinanza Zulmy , Nugroho Benni Agung , Nurfarida Ellya
Published: May 2024

The high interest of the students has motivated the teachers at SDN Dermo 1 to improve the quality of learning. Therefore, they initiate to create a learning media innovations such as manipulative media and computer media. However, building a learning innovations with computers-based was not accompanied by the abilities. To solve this problem, we hold community service activities that aimed to improve their capability in developing innovations by holding outreach on mathematics learning methods and training on implementing computer applications. The last step in this program is assistance in developing and implementing computer learning media in online course. Further, the Community Service Program named "Peningkatan Kompetensi Guru Melalui Pelatihan Dan Pendampingan Pembuatan Media Pembelajaran Inovatif Berbasis Pembelajaran Daring" was carried out in 5 stages of preparation, socialization, training, mentoring, and evaluation. Finally, this community service program has been produced a training module and teacher's capability more better. About the training modules, it can be used in online learning-based learning media. It started from the perception to evaluation stage. In fact, the learning methods that applied in SD Negeri 1 Dermo Kediri is on the track with Minister of Education and Culture's direction. Other than that, the training program can increase the quality of learning.
Evaluating the efficacy of mesenchymal stem cells for diabetic neuropathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of preclinical studies
Authors: Li Yu , Yue Guangren , Yu Shuying , Cheng Xinhao , Cao Yilin , Wang Ximei
Published: May 2024

Diabetic neuropathy affects nearly half of all diabetics and poses a significant threat to public health. Recent preclinical studies suggest that mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) may represent a promising solution for the treatment of diabetic neuropathy. However, an objective assessment of the preclinical effectiveness of MSCs is still pending. We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane library to identify preclinical studies that investigate the effects of MSCs on diabetic neuropathy up until 15 September 2023. Outcome indicators consisted of motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities, intra-epidermal nerve fiber density, sciatic nerve blood flow, capillary-to-muscle fiber ratio, neurotrophic factors, angiogenic factors and inflammatory cytokines. The literature review and meta-analysis were conducted independently by two researchers. 23 studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in this system review for qualitative and quantitative analysis. Pooled analyses indicated that MSCs exhibited an evident benefit in diabetic neuropathy in terms of motor (SMD = 2.16, 95% CI: 1.71–2.61) and sensory nerve conduction velocities (SMD = 2.93, 95% CI: 1.78–4.07), intra-epidermal nerve fiber density (SMD = 3.17, 95% CI: 2.28–4.07), sciatic nerve blood flow (SMD = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.37–2.66), and capillary-to-muscle fiber ratio (SMD = 2.28, 95% CI: 1.55 to 3.01, p < 0.00001). Furthermore, after MSC therapy, the expressions of neurotrophic and angiogenic factors increased significantly in most studies, while the levels of inflammatory cytokines were significantly reduced. The relevance of this review relies on the fact that summarizes an extensive body of work entailing substantial preclinical evidence that supports the efficacy of MSCs in mitigating diabetic neuropathy. While MSCs emerge as a promising potential treatment for diabetic neuropathy, further research is essential to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and the best administration strategy for MSCs.
Towards a comprehensive biomechanical assessment of the elderly combining in vivo data and in silico methods
Authors: Davico Giorgio , Labanca Luciana , Gennarelli Irene , Benedetti Maria Grazia , Viceconti Marco
Published: May 2024

The aging process is commonly accompanied by a general or specific loss of muscle mass, force and/or function that inevitably impact on a person’s quality of life. To date, various clinical tests and assessments are routinely performed to evaluate the biomechanical status of an individual, to support and inform the clinical management and decision-making process (e.g., to design a tailored rehabilitation program). However, these assessments (e.g., gait analysis or strength measures on a dynamometer) are typically conducted independently from one another or at different time points, providing clinicians with valuable yet fragmented information. We hereby describe a comprehensive protocol that combines both in vivo measurements (maximal voluntary isometric contraction test, superimposed neuromuscular electrical stimulation, electromyography, gait analysis, magnetic resonance imaging, and clinical measures) and in silico methods (musculoskeletal modeling and simulations) to enable the full characterization of an individual from the biomechanical standpoint. The protocol, which requires approximately 4 h and 30 min to be completed in all its parts, was tested on twenty healthy young participants and five elderlies, as a proof of concept. The implemented data processing and elaboration procedures allowing for the extraction of several biomechanical parameters (including muscle volumes and cross-sectional areas, muscle activation and co-contraction levels) are thoroughly described to enable replication. The main parameters extracted are reported as mean and standard deviation across the two populations, to highlight the potential of the proposed approach and show some preliminary findings (which were in agreement with previous literature).
Creating a multifaceted prognostic model for cutaneous melanoma: the convergence of single-cell and bulk sequencing with machine learning
Authors: Mao Fei , Wan Neng
Published: May 2024

Background

Cutaneous melanoma is a highly heterogeneous cancer, and understanding the role of inflammation-related genes in its progression is crucial.

Methods

The cohorts used include the TCGA cohort from TCGA database, and GSE115978, GSE19234, GSE22153 cohort, and GSE65904 cohort from GEO database. Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis (WGCNA) identified key inflammatory modules. Machine learning techniques were employed to construct prognostic models, which were validated across multiple cohorts, including the TCGA cohort, GSE19234, GSE22153, and GSE65904. Immune cell infiltration, tumor mutation load, and immunotherapy response were assessed. The hub gene STAT1 was validated through cellular experiments.

Results

Single-cell analysis revealed heterogeneity in inflammation-related genes, with NK cells, T cells, and macrophages showing elevated inflammation-related scores. WGCNA identified a module highly associated with inflammation. Machine learning yielded a CoxBoost + GBM prognostic model. The model effectively stratified patients into high-risk and low-risk groups in multiple cohorts. A nomogram and Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curves confirmed the model’s accuracy. Low-risk patients exhibited increased immune cell infiltration, higher Tumor Mutational Burden (TMB), and potentially better immunotherapy response. Cellular experiments validated the functional role of STAT1 in melanoma progression.

Conclusion

Inflammation-related genes play a critical role in cutaneous melanoma progression. The developed prognostic model, nomogram, and validation experiments highlight the potential clinical relevance of these genes and provide a basis for further investigation into personalized treatment strategies for melanoma patients.
2D and 3D anticancer properties of C2-functionalised glucosamine-Pt (IV) prodrugs based on cisplatin scaffold
Authors: Moynihan Eoin , Galiana-Cameo Maria , Sandri Monica , Ruffini Andrea , Panseri Silvia , Velasco-Torrijos Trinidad , Montesi Monica , Montagner Diego
Published: May 2024

A series of C2-functionalied Pt (IV) glycoconjugates based on glucosamine have been synthesised, characterised and tested as anticancer agents on a series of different 2D and 3D cancer cell lines. The carbohydrate will act as a targeted delivery system to improve the selectivity, exploiting the Warburg Effect and the GLUTs receptors that are overexpressed in most of the cancer cells. The hydroxyl at C2 of the carbohydrates does not participate in hydrogen bonding with the GLUTs receptors, making C2 an attractive position for drug conjugation as seen in literature. In this study, we use the amino functionality at the C2 position in glucosamine and Copper-catalysed Azide-Alkyne Cycloaddition “click” (CuAAC) reaction to connect the prodrug Pt (IV) scaffold to the carbohydrate. We have investigated complexes with different linker lengths, as well as acetyl protected and free derivatives. To the best of our knowledge, this study represents the first series of Pt (IV) glucosamine-conjugates functionalised at C2.
A medical language for climate discourse
Authors: Forgács Bálint
Published: May 2024

Innovative communication theories propose that we understand messages not by decoding their meaning but by inferring what speakers intend to express. However scientifically accurate the messages climate scientists have put forward, the appropriate inferences may not have been drawn by most of their audiences. One of the main reasons may be that scientific metaphors allow for multiple interpretations, yet, because of their expressive power, they impact discourses disproportionately. Climate communication took a path of euphemistic scientific expressions partially due to the noble scientific norms of self-restraint and modesty, but the hidden implications of climate jargon distort the way non-experts think about the heating climate. Consequently, the current climate jargon hinders informed decisions about Earth’s life support systems. Changing the softened expressions of climate language, from the cool of basic research to the heat and compassion of medical contexts, may allow for more productive public and political debates – which may lead to more powerful policy solutions. Speaking and thinking in medical terms could turn the perception of worst case scenarios from hypotheticals or doomism to life-saving interventions. We typically start reducing fever before it gets out of control, let alone crosses a threshold of potential death. Instead of putting on a positivist mascara, a calm and serious discussion of safety measures in medical terms, for example, talking about climatic tipping cascades as metastases, could foster a more honest evaluation of the required legal and regulatory steps to keep our home planet habitable.
Epigenetically active chromatin in neonatal iWAT reveals GABPα as a potential regulator of beige adipogenesis
Authors: Mooli Raja Gopal Reddy , Zhu Bokai , Khan Saifur R. , Nagati Veerababu , Michealraj Kulandaimanuvel Antony , Jurczak Michael J. , Ramakrishnan Sadeesh K.
Published: May 2024

Background

Thermogenic beige adipocytes, which dissipate energy as heat, are found in neonates and adults. Recent studies show that neonatal beige adipocytes are highly plastic and contribute to >50% of beige adipocytes in adults. Neonatal beige adipocytes are distinct from recruited beige adipocytes in that they develop independently of temperature and sympathetic innervation through poorly defined mechanisms.

Methods

We characterized the neonatal beige adipocytes in the inguinal white adipose tissue (iWAT) of C57BL6 postnatal day 3 and 20 mice (P3 and P20) by imaging, genome-wide RNA-seq analysis, ChIP-seq analysis, qRT-PCR validation, and biochemical assays.

Results

We found an increase in acetylated histone 3 lysine 27 (H3K27ac) on the promoter and enhancer regions of beige-specific gene UCP1 in iWAT of P20 mice. Furthermore, H3K27ac ChIP-seq analysis in the iWAT of P3 and P20 mice revealed strong H3K27ac signals at beige adipocyte-associated genes in the iWAT of P20 mice. The integration of H3K27ac ChIP-seq and RNA-seq analysis in the iWAT of P20 mice reveal epigenetically active signatures of beige adipocytes, including oxidative phosphorylation and mitochondrial metabolism. We identify the enrichment of GA-binding protein alpha (GABPα) binding regions in the epigenetically active chromatin regions of the P20 iWAT, particularly on beige genes, and demonstrate that GABPα is required for beige adipocyte differentiation. Moreover, transcriptomic analysis and glucose oxidation assays revealed increased glycolytic activity in the neonatal iWAT from P20.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that epigenetic mechanisms regulate the development of peri-weaning beige adipocytes via GABPα. Further studies to better understand the upstream mechanisms that regulate epigenetic activation of GABPα and characterization of the metabolic identity of neonatal beige adipocytes will help us harness their therapeutic potential in metabolic diseases.
Effect of the impeller blade outlet setting angle on the performance of the helical axial-flow multiphase pump
Authors: Wang Jiaqiong , Hu Chen , Bai Ling , Agarwal Ramesh , Zhou Ling
Published: May 2024

As one of the core pieces of equipment in the multiphase mixing system, the helical axial-flow multiphase pump plays a vital role in the process of offshore oil extraction. In order to explore the influence of the impeller blade outlet setting angle on the internal flow of the helical axial-flow multiphase pump, this paper increases the outlet setting angle of the flow surface by −3°, −1.5°, and 1.5°, respectively, based on the original multiphase pump. It calculates the flow characteristics of the impeller with four different outlet setting angles (including the original impeller) under the design condition with different inlet gas volume fractions (GVFs = 0, 10%, 30%, 50%, and 70%) by adopting the Euler–Euler non-homogeneous flow model and SST k-ω turbulence model. Furthermore, it compares its external characteristic curve and the internal pressure, velocity, gas distribution, and other rules of change of the impeller and guide vane under higher inlet GVF conditions (50%). The results show that in the pure water state, increasing the outlet setting angle appropriately can enhance both the pressure pressurization capability and efficiency of the helical axial-flow multiphase pump; the pressure pressurization capability and efficiency of each scheme decrease with an increase in inlet GVF, and at 50%–70% inlet GVF, the option of increasing the outlet setting angle by −1.5° is better; as the blade outlet setting angle decreases, the axial cross-sectional pressure after gas–liquid mixing increases, the overall velocity distribution is more uniform, and the vortex formed due to the counter-pressure flow in the secondary guide vane is reduced; the accumulation of gas phase on the backside of the impeller and guide vanes improves, leading to a reduction in flow losses.
Adaptability of root morphology and growth of two forage grass species in response to salt stress
Authors: Zhang Yang , Zhang Yanfang , Zhang Rui , Song Yingying , Li Gang , Song Yayun , Ma Guochen , Guo Huizhen
Published: May 2024

The cultivated Echinochloa frumentacea (Roxb.) Link and Echinochloa crusgalli (L.) Beauv. var. mitis (Pursh) Peter are two valuable grass species that are widely used in improving saline-alkali soil. Here we conducted a pot experiment combined with roots morphological analysis to investigate the adaptability of grass roots to saline stress environments, with cultivated E. frumentacea and E. crusgalli being subjected to salt treatments of 0 (CK), 100, 220, and 340 mmoL·L−1. Results indicated that E. frumentacea had longer primary roots with fewer root hairs and lower local branching density than E. crusgalli, with the root volume of E. frumentacea being 1.43 times greater than that of E. crusgalli. The aboveground biomass of both grasses decreased significantly (p < 0.05) with increasing salt concentrations, whereas the root-to-shoot ratio exhibited the opposite trend, suggesting the preferential allocation of photosynthetic products to the roots under salt stress. The total length, surface area, and tip number of fine roots and the growth of coarse roots (d > 2.00 mm) showed significant differences (p < 0.05) between the two grass species. Different concentrations of salt stress had inconsistent effects on the biomass and radial growth of roots for grasses. The cultivated E. frumentacea seems to adopt an adapt strategy of gradually increasing its root thickness, root hairs, and root density under increasing salt stress. E. crusgalli, on the other hand, employed a strategy of increasing root length, maintaining uniform thickness, and developing root hairs.
Emerging role of gut microbiota in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Wang Xinyi , Yuan Wei , Yang Chunjuan , Wang Zhangxue , Zhang Jin , Xu Donghua , Sun Xicai , Sun Wenchang
Published: May 2024

Accumulating studies have indicated that the gut microbiota plays a pivotal role in the onset of autoimmune diseases by engaging in complex interactions with the host. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the existing literatures concerning the relationship between the gut microbiota and autoimmune diseases, shedding light on the complex interplay between the gut microbiota, the host and the immune system. Furthermore, we aim to summarize the impacts and potential mechanisms that underlie the interactions between the gut microbiota and the host in autoimmune diseases, primarily focusing on systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren’s syndrome, type 1 diabetes mellitus, ulcerative colitis and psoriasis. The present review will emphasize the clinical significance and potential applications of interventions based on the gut microbiota as innovative adjunctive therapies for autoimmune diseases.
Extracellular vesicles in non-small cell lung cancer stemness and clinical applications
Authors: Pandya Prita , Al-Qasrawi Dania S. , Klinge Skyeler , Justilien Verline
Published: May 2024

Non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) accounts for 85% of lung cancers, the leading cause of cancer associated deaths in the US and worldwide. Within NSCLC tumors, there is a subpopulation of cancer cells termed cancer stem cells (CSCs) which exhibit stem-like properties that drive NSCLC progression, metastasis, relapse, and therapeutic resistance. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are membrane-bound nanoparticles secreted by cells that carry vital messages for short- and long-range intercellular communication. Numerous studies have implicated NSCLC CSC-derived EVs in the factors associated with NSCLC lethality. In this review, we have discussed mechanisms of EV-directed cross-talk between CSCs and cells of the tumor microenvironment that promote stemness, tumor progression and metastasis in NSCLC. The mechanistic studies discussed herein have provided insights for developing novel NSCLC diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers and strategies to therapeutically target the NSCLC CSC niche.
The bispecific B7H3xCD3 antibody CC-3 induces T cell immunity against bone and soft tissue sarcomas
Authors: Holzmayer Samuel J. , Liebel Kai , Hagelstein Ilona , Salih Helmut R. , Märklin Melanie
Published: May 2024

Sarcomas are rare and heterogeneous malignancies that are difficult to treat. Approximately 50% of patients diagnosed with sarcoma develop metastatic disease with so far very limited treatment options. The transmembrane protein B7-H3 reportedly is expressed in various malignancies, including different sarcoma subtypes. In several cancer entities B7-H3 expression is associated with poor prognosis. In turn, B7-H3 is considered a promising target for immunotherapeutic approaches. We here report on the preclinical characterization of a B7-H3xCD3 bispecific antibody in an IgG-based format, termed CC-3, for treatment of different sarcoma subtypes. We found B7-H3 to be expressed on all sarcoma cells tested and expression on sarcoma patients correlated with decreased progression-free and overall survival. CC-3 was found to elicit robust T cell responses against multiple sarcoma subtypes, resulting in significant activation, release of cytokines and effector molecules. In addition, CC-3 promoted T cell proliferation and differentiation, resulting in the generation of memory T cell subsets. Finally, CC-3 induced potent target cell lysis in a target cell restricted manner. Based on these results, a clinical trial evaluating CC-3 in soft tissue sarcoma is currently in preparation.
The spatiotemporal variations of microbial community in relation to water quality in a tropical drinking water reservoir, Southmost China
Authors: Wu Di , Zou Ying , Xiao Juan , Mo Ling , Lek Sovan , Chen Bo , Fu Qiongyao , Guo Zhiqiang
Published: May 2024

It is well-known that water quality has great significance on microbial community composition in aquatic environments. In this study, we detected water column indicates the microbial community composition of nine sampling sites over two seasons using Illumina TruSeq sequencing in Songtao Reservoir, Hainan Province, Southmost China. The study indicated that the dominant phylum was Actinobacteria, Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes, and Cyanobacteria. The diversity parameters showed that the microbial community composition had significant spatiotemporal variations, including the significantly higher Shannon index and Simpson index upstream than those midstream and downstream. Besides, there were significantly higher Chao1 index, Shannon index, and Simpson index in winter than in summer. Principal coordinates analysis (PCoA) showed the microbial structural composition had significant seasonal differences. The results of microbial community composition further revealed that the eutrophication level upstream was higher than that of midstream and downstream. The redundancy analysis (RDA) diagram indicated that the abundance of microbiology species significantly correlated with temperature, total phosphorus, Se, and Ni. Furthermore, the mantel's test showed that the temperature and total phosphorus significantly affected the community composition of archaea and bacteria. Overall, our finding here partially validated our hypothesis that the spatiotemporal variations of microbial community composition are significantly related to nutrients, physicochemical factors and metals, which has been unknown previously in tropical drinking waterbodies. This study substantially contributed to understanding of the composition of microbial community in tropical drinking water reservoirs and the main environmental driving factors in tropical zones. It also provided a reference for the management of reservoir operation to ensure drinking water safe.
Hybridization alters red deer gut microbiome and metabolites
Authors: Wei Limin , Zeng Bo , Li Bo , Guo Wei , Mu Zhenqiang , Gan Yunong , Li Yanhong
Published: May 2024

The host genes play a crucial role in shaping the composition and structure of the gut microbiome. Red deer is listed as an endangered species by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, and its pilose antlers have good medicinal value. Hybridization can lead to heterosis, resulting in increased pilose antler production and growth performance in hybrid deer. However, the role of the gut microbiome in hybrid deer remains largely unknown. In this study, alpha and beta diversity analysis showed that hybridization altered the composition and structure of the gut microbiome of the offspring, with the composition and structure of the hybrid offspring being more similar to those of the paternal parents. Interestingly, the LefSe differential analysis showed that there were some significantly enriched gut microbiome in the paternal parents (such as g_Prevotellaceae UCG-003, f_Bacteroidales RF16 group; Ambiguous_taxa, etc.) and the maternal parents (including g_Alistipes, g_Anaerosporobacter, etc.), which remained significantly enriched in the hybrid offspring. Additionally, the hybrid offspring exhibited a significant advantage over the parental strains, particularly in taxa that can produce short-chain fatty acids, such as g_Prevotellaceae UCG-003, g_Roseburia, g_Succinivibrio, and g_Lachnospiraceae UCG-006. Similar to bacterial transmission, metagenomic analysis showed that some signaling pathways related to pilose antler growth (“Wnt signaling pathway,” “PI3K Akt signaling pathway,” “MAPK signaling pathway”) were also enriched in hybrid red deer after hybridization. Furthermore, metabolomic analysis revealed that compared with the paternal and maternal parents, the hybrid offspring exhibited significant enrichment in metabolites related to “Steroid hormone biosynthesis,” “Tryptophan metabolism,” “Valine, leucine and isoleucine metabolism,” and “Vitamin B metabolism.” Notably, the metagenomic analysis also showed that these metabolic pathways were significantly enriched in hybrid deer. Finally, a correlation analysis between the gut microbiome and metabolites revealed a significant positive correlation between the enriched taxa in hybrid deer, including the Bacteroidales RF16 group, Prevotellaceae, and Succinivibrio, and metabolites, such as 7α-hydroxytestosterone, L-kynurenine, indole, L-isoleucine, and riboflavin. The study contributes valuable data toward understanding the role of the gut microbiome from red deer in hybridization and provides reference data for further screening potential probiotics and performing microbial-assisted breeding that promotes the growth of red deer pilose antlers and bodies, development, and immunity.
Preservation of the middle meningeal artery during unruptured aneurysm surgery: an independent risk factor for postoperative chronic subdural hematoma
Authors: Kim Myungsoo
Published: May 2024

Background

Although microsurgical clipping for unruptured aneurysms has become safer and more efficient with modern neurosurgical advances, postoperative chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) persists as an underrecognized complication. This study investigated the association between preservation of the anterior branch of the middle meningeal artery (MMA) during surgery and CSDH development.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 120 patients who underwent clipping for unruptured aneurysms at Kyungpook National University Chilgok Hospital between May 2020 and July 2023. We evaluated the patients on the basis of surgical approach—lateral supraorbital (LSO) or standard pterional craniotomy—and the status of the MMA postoperatively. We employed pre-and post-operative MR angiography to assess MMA preservation and used follow-up computed tomography scans to monitor CSDH development.

Results

Of the 120 patients, 22 (18.3%) developed CSDH. Univariate analysis revealed that male sex, advanced age, and MMA preservation are risk factors for postoperative CSDH. Multivariate analysis supported these findings, indicating a significant association with the development of CSDH. MMA preservation was reported in 65 patients, of whom 60 and 5 underwent LSO and pterional craniotomy, respectively.

Conclusion

Preservation of the anterior branch of the MMA during unruptured aneurysm surgery is a risk factor for postoperative CSDH development. Advanced age and male sex also contribute to the increased risk. These findings highlight the need for further investigation into surgical techniques that could mitigate postoperative CSDH development.
Effect of Moringa oleifera leaf polysaccharide on the composition of intestinal microbiota in mice with dextran sulfate sodium-induced ulcerative colitis
Authors: Husien Hosameldeen Mohamed , Rehman Shahab Ur , Duan Zhenyu , Wang Mengzhi
Published: May 2024

Moringa oleifera (M. oleifera) is a natural plant that has excellent nutritional and medicinal potential. M. oleifera leaves (MOL) contain several bioactive compounds. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential effect of MOL polysaccharide (MOLP) on intestinal flora in dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced ulcerative colitis (UC) mice. DSS-induced colitis was deemed to be a well-characterized experimental colitis model for investigating the protective effect of drugs on UC. In this study, we stimulated the experimental mice with DSS 4% for 7 days and prepared the high dose of MOLP (MOLP-H) in order to evaluate its effect on intestinal flora in DSS-induced UC mice, comparing three experimental groups, including the control, DSS model, and DSS + MOLP-H (100 mg/kg/day). At the end of the experiment, feces were collected, and the changes in intestinal flora in DSS-induced mice were analyzed based on 16S rDNA high throughput sequencing technology. The results showed that the Shannon, Simpson, and observed species indices of abundance decreased in the DSS group compared with the control group. However, the indices mentioned above were increased in the MOLP-H group. According to beta diversity analysis, the DSS group showed low bacterial diversity and the distance between the control and MOLP-H groups, respectively. In addition, compared with the control group, the relative abundance of Firmicutes in the DSS group decreased and the abundance of Helicobacter increased, while MOLP-H treatment improves intestinal health by enhancing the number of beneficial organisms, including Firmicutes, while reducing the number of pathogenic organisms, such as Helicobacter. In conclusion, these findings suggest that MOLP-H may be a viable prebiotic with health-promoting properties.
The clinical meaning of lymphovascular invasion: preoperative predictors and postoperative implications in prostate cancer - a retrospective study
Authors: Karwacki Jakub , Łątkowska Małgorzata , Jarocki Michał , Jaworski Arkadiusz , Szuba Przemysław , Poterek Adrian , Lemiński Artur , Kaczmarek Krystian , Hałoń Agnieszka , Szydełko Tomasz , Małkiewicz Bartosz
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Lymphovascular invasion (LVI) is a pivotal histopathological parameter in prostate cancer (PCa), holding significant prognostic implications. Our study pursued a dual objective: firstly, to identify preoperative factors associated with LVI, aiming to unveil markers facilitating the recognition of patients prone to LVI during postoperative examination; and secondly, to assess postoperative outcomes correlated with LVI.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 861 nonmetastatic PCa patients who underwent radical prostatectomy (RP), investigating preoperative factors and postoperative outcomes. Surgical specimens were processed following established guidelines. Statistical analyses utilized non-parametric tests to assess the association between LVI and both pre- and postoperative factors. Furthermore, logistic regression analyses were utilized to develop models aimed at identifying the most significant predictors of LVI and pN1 status, respectively.

Results

Numerous preoperative factors exhibited significant correlations with LVI, offering valuable clinical insights. Logistic regression identified magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-based clinical tumor stage (cT) 3-4, biopsy Gleason Grading Group (GGG) 3-5, preoperative prostate specific antigen (PSA) ≥20 and percentage of positive biopsy cores (PPBC) ≥50% as the strongest preoperative predictors of LVI. Additionally, the study uncovered an association between LVI and postoperative outcomes, including postoperative PSA (p value <0.001), extracapsular extension (ECE) (<0.001), positive surgical margins (PSM) (<0.001), perineural invasion (PNI) (<0.001), pathological tumor stage (pT) (<0.001), pathological lymph node status (pN) (<0.001), postoperative GGG (<0.001), and operative time (0.023). Notably, the study revealed a novel and substantial association between LVI and an increased number of positive lymph nodes in pN+ patients in the univariate analysis (<0.001). Furthermore, we have found an association between LVI and pN1 status in the logistic regression analysis (odds ratio [OR] = 23.905; p <0.001).

Conclusion

Our findings underscore the pivotal role of LVI in influencing the prognosis of prostate cancer (PCa). The study acknowledges the challenges associated with preoperative LVI assessment and emphasizes the need for future research to unravel the factors associated with this histopathological finding. Significantly, our research stands out as the first, to the best of our knowledge, to reveal the association between LVI and the number of positive lymph nodes in pN+ patients.
Therapeutic potential of natural products in schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis
Authors: Liu Cuiling , Fisher David , Pronyuk Khrystyna , Musabaev Erkin , Thu Hien Nguyen Thi , Dang Yiping , Zhao Lei
Published: May 2024

Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease that endangers human health and social development. The granulomatous reaction of Schistosoma eggs in the liver is the main cause of hepatosplenomegaly and fibrotic lesions. Anti liver fibrosis therapy is crucial for patients with chronic schistosomiasis. Although Praziquantel is the only clinical drug used, it is limited in insecticide treatment and has a long-term large-scale use, which is forcing the search for cost-effective alternatives. Previous research has demonstrated that plant metabolites and extracts have effective therapeutic effects on liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis. This paper summarizes the mechanisms of action of metabolites and some plant extracts in alleviating schistosomiasis-associated liver fibrosis. The analysis was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) databases. Some plant metabolites and extracts ameliorate liver fibrosis by targeting multiple signaling pathways, including reducing inflammatory infiltration, oxidative stress, inhibiting alternate macrophage activation, suppressing hepatic stellate cell activation, and reducing worm egg load. Natural products improve liver fibrosis associated with schistosomiasis, but further research is needed to elucidate the effectiveness of natural products in treating liver fibrosis caused by schistosomiasis, as there is no reported data from clinical trials in the literature.
Hydrophobins: multitask proteins
Authors: Rojas-Osnaya Jesús , Quintana-Quirino Mariana , Espinosa-Valencia Alejandra , Bravo Ana Luisa , Nájera Hugo
Published: May 2024

Hydrophobins are small amphiphilic extracellular proteins produced by filamentous fungi; they are surface-active proteins, and their functions are mainly related to their ability to self-assemble into amphipathic monolayers at hydrophobic–hydrophilic interfaces. Depending on their hydropathy patterns and purification requirements, they are classified into class I and class II; both present eight conserved cysteines throughout their sequence, forming four disulfide bridges, which generate four loops that give stability to the protein in its monomeric and folded forms. Class I hydrophobin loops are more extended than class II hydrophobin loops, resulting in differences in assembly on divergent surfaces, additionally accompanied by conformational changes in the protein structure. In the monomer hydrophobin glycosylated form, hydrophobins are rich in β-sheet structure, while being assembled at the water–air interface increases the content of the β-sheet in their structure and is at the interface with water, and a hydrophobic solid such as Teflon also induces the formation of an α-helix structure. The monolayers generated by class I are stable structures called fibrils or rodlets, and class II only produces aggregates. Class I presents a glycosylated chain in its sequence; this causes the formation of the α-helix structure, promoting ordered assemblies, which entails their stability and high insolubility. Fibrils could be dissociated with trifluoroacetic acid and formic acid, which unfolds the protein, while 60% ethanol and 2% sodium dodecyl sulfate solutions dissociate class II aggregates.
Applying Generative Artificial Intelligence to cognitive models of decision making
Authors: Malloy Tyler , Gonzalez Cleotilde
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Generative Artificial Intelligence has made significant impacts in many fields, including computational cognitive modeling of decision making, although these applications have not yet been theoretically related to each other. This work introduces a categorization of applications of Generative Artificial Intelligence to cognitive models of decision making.

Methods

This categorization is used to compare the existing literature and to provide insight into the design of an ablation study to evaluate our proposed model in three experimental paradigms. These experiments used for model comparison involve modeling human learning and decision making based on both visual information and natural language, in tasks that vary in realism and complexity. This comparison of applications takes as its basis Instance-Based Learning Theory, a theory of experiential decision making from which many models have emerged and been applied to a variety of domains and applications.

Results

The best performing model from the ablation we performed used a generative model to both create memory representations as well as predict participant actions. The results of this comparison demonstrates the importance of generative models in both forming memories and predicting actions in decision-modeling research.

Discussion

In this work, we present a model that integrates generative and cognitive models, using a variety of stimuli, applications, and training methods. These results can provide guidelines for cognitive modelers and decision making researchers interested in integrating Generative AI into their methods.
Case Report: Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome as a cause of deep vein thrombosis and subsequent popliteal artery occlusion
Authors: Lee Sangho , Hwang Deokbi , Yun Woo-Sung , Huh Seung , Kim Hyung-Kee
Published: May 2024

Background

Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a relatively rare cause of arterial insufficiency in young and physically active individuals; however, deep vein thrombosis (DVT) can develop in association with PAES.

Case report

A 47-year-old man presented with a 6-day history of left leg swelling and discomfort which was diagnosed as DVT extending to the distal femoral vein and pulmonary embolism on computed tomography (CT). PAES was not suspected at this time, and the patient was administered anticoagulants for 1 year. Two years after the DVT diagnosis, the patient developed sudden-onset left calf claudication for 1 week. Repeat CT angiography showed popliteal artery (PA) occlusion caused by PA displacement from an abnormally lateral insertion of the medial gastrocnemius head. A retrospective review of the initial CT scan confirmed this, as well as compression of the popliteal vein between the displaced medial head and the normal lateral head of the gastrocnemius. The patient eventually underwent myotomy and resection of the PA with an interposition graft.

Conclusion

This case underscores the potential of PAES as a rare etiology of DVT, emphasizing the importance of considering it in the differential diagnosis of DVT in younger patients lacking common predisposing factors.
Low-Carbon Ecological Tea: The Key to Transforming the Tea Industry towards Sustainability
Authors: Zhang Waner , Zhao Mingyue , Chen Youcheng , Xu Yinlong , Ma Yongqiang , Fan Shuisheng
Published: May 2024

The realization of the value of ecological products has led to an economic means for reducing carbon emissions in China. Tea is one of the most important cash crops and one of the most popular beverages in the world. Due to the complex the tea industrial chain, it is considered to be an industry with high carbon emissions. Ecological tea products with low-carbon attributes can be considered a linkage of ecology, economy, and society. Based on this, this paper presents research on low-carbon ecological tea (LCT). Herein, we construct the formational logic of low-carbon ecological products, explore the connotations of LCT, and form a conceptual pathway for realizing LCT to contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation. This paper starts from the upstream, midstream, and downstream of the industrial chain; it establishes three value realization pathways that keep, as a priority, the promotion of ecological industrialization, focus on restoration to improve the ecology of the industrial chain, and innovate technology to expand the industrial chain. The pathways are a set of low-emission production solutions that use techniques to enhance carbon sequestration in soil, reduce the use of fertilizers and pesticides, and help shift to clean energy from low-emission sources in the stages of plantation, processing, and distribution. In the process of realizing LCT, the government plays an important role, and its support and guidance are needed. Based on stakeholder theory, this paper builds an implementation mechanism that focuses on the micro perspective (users, organizations), integrates the mesoscopic perspective (industry), and relies on the macro perspective (government).
A Comparative Dataset of Annotated Broccoli Heads Recorded with Depth Cameras from a Moving Vehicle
Authors: Hardy Oliver , Seemakurthy Karthik , Sklar Elizabeth I.
Published: May 2024

An extensive, publicly available dataset is presented—the LAR Broccoli dataset—which contains 20,000 manually annotated images of broccoli heads captured from a moving tractor at an organic farm in the UK. The dataset contains images of the same row of broccoli heads recorded at 30 frames per second (fps) with three different cameras. Two off-the-shelf, relatively low-cost depth-sensing cameras were used, with the tractor moving at a speed of around 1 km/h, in addition to a webcam, with the tractor moving twice as fast. The utility of the dataset is demonstrated in four ways. First, three different state-of-the-art detector models were trained on the dataset, achieving an overall mean Average Precision (mAP) score of over 95% for the best-performing detector. The results validate the utility of the dataset for the standard task of in-field broccoli head recognition. Second, experiments with transfer learning were conducted, initialised with a smaller pre-trained broccoli detection model, and refined with the LAR Broccoli dataset. Third, we assessed the advantages of transfer learning not only using mAP but also according to time and space requirements for training models, which provides a proxy metric for energy efficiency, a practical consideration for real-world model training. Fourth, the cross-camera generalisation among the three camera systems was compared. The results highlight that testing and training detector models using different camera systems can lead to reduced performance, unless the training set also includes some images captured in the same manner as those in the test set.
In Vitro Growth of Mammalian Follicles and Oocytes
Authors: Sakaguchi Kenichiro
Published: May 2024

Mammalian ovaries contain a large number of immature follicles, most of which are destined to degenerate before ovulation [...]
Epidemiology Tools to Evaluate the Control of Proliferative Enteropathy in Commercial Pig Herds
Authors: Collins Alison , Collins Cherie
Published: May 2024

Proliferative enteropathy (PE) is characterized by diarrhea and reduced weight gains in growing pigs and intestinal hemorrhage in finishers. Vaccination, antibiotic medication, and improved hygiene can control PE, but their efficacy depends upon the epidemiology of PE. This study monitored the timing and severity of PE in 84 commercial pens across seven treatments, including disinfection, vaccination, no treatment, medication with olaquindox (50, 25 and 12.5 ppm), and combined disinfection and vaccination. Vaccination with or without lime disinfection suppressed clinical signs of PE and reduced the number of excreted L. intracellularis relative to untreated pigs housed in cleaned or cleaned and disinfected pens between 9 and 17 weeks of age. Continuous olaquindox mediation to 17 weeks of age prevented L. intracellularis infection, leaving finisher pigs naïve. These finisher pigs suffered an outbreak of hemorrhagic enteropathy with significant reductions in weight gain, feed intake, and mortalities of 4.6%. Over the 13 week grow/finish period, vaccinated pigs housed in disinfected pens showed significantly higher weight gain and feed intake relative to all other treatments, equating to a weight gain difference of between 3.6 and 3.9 kg per pig. Monitoring the immune response and fecal excretion of L. intracellularis in pens of pigs enabled effective PE control strategies to be evaluated on the farm.
Which Factors Influence the Consumption of Antibiotics in Q-Fever-Positive Dairy Farms in Northern Germany?
Authors: Huber Niclas , Gundling Natascha , Thurow Maria , Ligges Uwe , Hoedemaker Martina
Published: May 2024

It was the aim of this study to examine whether the usage of the vaccine COXEVAC® (Ceva Santé Animale) could reduce the consumption of antibiotics in Q-fever-positive dairy farms. Additionally, the effects of other herd-level factors on the consumption of antibiotics were investigated. A total of 36 farms with vaccination and 13 farms without vaccination participated in this longitudinal cohort study. In all herds, Coxiella burnetii had been directly or indirectly diagnosed. To compare the treatment frequency of antibiotics between the vaccinated group and the non-vaccinated group, the consumption of antibiotics for each farm was collected using the veterinary documents about the application and delivery of antibiotics. To gather detailed information about herd data, nutrition, milking management, housing, and animal health, the farmers were interviewed with the help of a questionnaire. The results thereof suggest that there might be an association between the vaccination against Q fever and a reduced consumption of antibiotics. Neither herd size nor milk yield level influenced the consumption of antibiotics in the study herds. Type of flooring and udder-cluster disinfection while milking were associated with a lower and higher therapy frequency, respectively. Further studies are necessary to elucidate the cause–effect relationship between vaccination and the consumption of antibiotics.