bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEVELOPMENT STUDENT WORKSHEETS WITH PROBLEM-BASED LEARNING MODELS IN STATISTICS CLASS VIII MTs HIDAYATUL MUTA’ALLIM MENGKIRAU
Authors: Dewi Fitriyah  , Ariawan Rezi , Zetriuslita  , Nufus Hayatun
Published: August 2023

This study aims to determine the validity of the mathematics learning tools in the form of Student Worksheets (LKPD) using the Problem Based Learning (PBL) learning model on statistical material. This study uses a type of R&D research that was developed using the modified Plomp development model because the research was carried out during the Covid-19 pandemic, so only 4 stages were carried out, namely 1) the initial investigation stage, 2) the design stage, 3) the realization/construction stage, 4) stage of test, evaluation and revision. The data collection instrument used was the LKPD validation sheet. The data collection technique used is a non-test technique with validation sheets from 2 lecturers of mathematics education at FKIP UIR and 1 mathematics teacher at MTs Hidayatul Muta'allim Mengkirau. The analytical technique used is validation data analysis. From the results of the study, the results of the LKPD validation were 85.47% with very valid validation criteria. Based on this research, it was obtained a mathematics learning tool in the form of LKPD with a Problem Based Learning (PBL) model on statistical material for class VIII MTs Hidayatul Muta'allim Mengkirau which had been tested for validity.
Edukasi Kesehatan PHBS (Aktivitas Fisik, Pola Diet, Dan Berhenti Merokok) Terhadap Pengetahuan Dan Perilaku Pada Penderita Hipertensi
Authors: Sonhaji Sonhaji , Hapsari Shindi , Kusuma Dicky Candra
Published: August 2023

Hipertensi merupakan salah satu penyakit kardiovaskuler sering di derita oleh masyarakat. Data World Health Organization (WHO) melaporkan lebih dari 1,3 Miliar orang di dunia menderita penyakit hipertensi. Perilaku hidup yang tidak baik merupakan salah satu faktor resiko terjadinya penyakit hipertensi seperti merokok, minuman beralkohol kurang aktivitas dan olah raga, kebiasaan tidur, dan pola makan. Perilaku hidup yang tidak baik merupakan salah satu faktor resiko terjadinya penyakit hipertensi. Mengetahui pengaruh edukasi kesehatan PHBS (aktivitas fisik, makan sayur buah, dan tidak merokok) terhadap pengetahuan dan perilaku pada penderita hipertensi Di Desa Gedanganak Kabupaten Semarang. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian kuantitatif dengan pendekatan quasi Eksperiment. Teknik pengumpulan data dengan kuesioner. Populasi sejumlah 48 orang . Teknik pengambilan sampel yang digunakan adalah random sampling. Rerata nilai edukasi pre-test adalah 30.55 dan post-test adalah 50, nilai rata–rata pre-test perilaku adalah 32 dan post-test adalah 52,60. Hasil uji stastistik menggunakan uji Paired T-test dan Uji Wilcoxon memiliki nilai (2-tailed) yang sama yakni 0,000 < 0,05. Ada pengaruh edukasi terhadap pengetahuan dan perilaku pada penderita hipertensi di Desa Gedanganak Kabupaten Semarang.
kLa based scale-up cultivation of the extremophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius: from benchtop to pilot scale
Authors: Rastädter Kerstin , Wurm David J. , Spadiut Oliver , Quehenberger Julian
Published: August 2023

The two major scale-up criteria in continuously stirred bioreactors are 1) constant aerated power input per volume (Pg/Vl), and 2) the volumetric O2 mass transfer coefficient (kla). However, Pg/Vl is only influenced by the stirrer geometry, stirrer speed, aeration and working volume, while the kla is additionally affected by physiochemical properties of the medium (temperature, pH, salt content, etc.), sparging of gas and also by the bioreactor design. The extremophilic archaeon Sulfolobus acidocaldarius, thriving at 75°C and pH 3.0, has the potential for many biotechnological applications. However, previous studies imply that the family Sulfolobaceae might be affected by higher oxygen concentration in the headspace (>26%). Hence, adequate oxygen supply without being toxic has to be ensured throughout the different scales. In this study, the scale-up criteria Pg/Vl and kla were analyzed and compared in a 2 L chemostat cultivation of S. acidocaldarius on a defined growth medium at 75°C and a pH value of 3.0, using two different types of spargers at the same aerated power input. The scale-up criterion kLa, ensuring a high specific growth rate as well as viability, was then used for scaleup to 20 L and 200 L. By maintaining a constant kla comparable dry cell weight, specific growth rate, specific substrate uptake rates and viability were observed between all investigated scales. This procedure harbors the potential for further scale-up to industrial size bioreactors.
Exploring the mechanistic role of alloying elements in copper-based electrocatalysts for the reduction of carbon dioxide to methane
Authors: Hao Mingzhong , Duan Baorong , Leng Guorui , Liu Junjie , Li Song , Wang Shanshan , Qu Jiale
Published: August 2023

The promise of electrochemically reducing excess anthropogenic carbon dioxide into useful chemicals and fuels has gained significant interest. Recently, indium–copper (In–Cu) alloys have been recognized as prospective catalysts for the carbon dioxide reduction reaction (CO2RR), although they chiefly yield carbon monoxide. Generating further reduced C1 species such as methane remains elusive due to a limited understanding of how In–Cu alloying impacts electrocatalysis. In this work, we investigated the effect of alloying In with Cu for CO2RR to form methane through first-principles simulations. Compared with pure copper, In–Cu alloys suppress the hydrogen evolution reaction while demonstrating superior initial CO2RR selectivity. Among the alloys studied, In7Cu10 exhibited the most promising catalytic potential, with a limiting potential of −0.54 V versus the reversible hydrogen electrode. Analyses of adsorbed geometries and electronic structures suggest that this decreased overpotential arises primarily from electronic perturbations around copper and indium ions and carbon–oxygen bond stability. This study outlines a rational strategy to modulate metal alloy compositions and design synergistic CO2RR catalysts possessing appreciable activity and selectivity.
Effect of carbon support on the activity of monodisperse Co45Pt55 nanoparticles for oxygen evolution in alkaline media
Authors: Andrić Stevan , Milikić Jadranka , Sevim Melike , Santos Diogo M. F. , Šljukić Biljana
Published: August 2023

Oxygen evolution reaction (OER) represents the efficiency-limiting reaction in water electrolyzers, metal-air batteries, and unitized regenerative fuel cells. To achieve high-efficiency OER in alkaline media, we fabricated three novel electrocatalysts by the assembly of as-prepared Co45Pt55 alloy nanoparticles (NPs) on three different carbon-based support materials: reduced graphene oxide (CoPt/rGO), mesoporous graphitic carbon nitride (CoPt/mpg-CN), and commercial Ketjenblack carbon (CoPt/KB). Voltammetry studies revealed that CoPt/rGO electrocatalyst provided lower OER overpotentials accompanied by higher currents and specific current density values than the other two studied materials. Moreover, CoPt/rGO outperformed commercial CoPt/C electrocatalysts in terms of notably higher specific current densities. Additionally, it was found that CoPt/rGO electrocatalyst activity increases with increasing temperature up to 85°C, as suggested by the increase in the exchange current density. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies of three electrocatalysts in OER revealed similar charge transfer resistance, although CoPt/rGO provided a higher current density. The main issue observed during long-term chronoamperometry and chronopotentiometry studies is the materials’ instability under OER polarization conditions, which is still to be tackled in future work.
The i-SUN process to use social learning analytics: a conceptual framework to research online learning interaction supported by social presence
Authors: Castellanos-Reyes Daniela , Koehler Adrie A. , Richardson Jennifer C.
Published: August 2023

Interaction is an essential element of online learning and researchers had use Social Learning Analytics (SLA) to understand the characteristics of meaningful interaction. While the potential for network analysis in education (i.e., SLA) is valuable, limited research has considered how best to use this emerging field to inform meaningful interaction in online settings. Online learning researchers need a concise and simplified framework for SLA to support interaction in online learning environments. Therefore, we present a conceptual framework to make SLA accessible for researchers investigating learners' interactions in online learning. The framework includes concepts from network theory and the online learning literature integrated into a new perspective to analyze learners' online behaviors and interactions. We analyzed existing models and frameworks to show how network analysis has been used in online learning resulting in a conceptual environment to investigate learner interaction. The proposed i-SUN framework has four main steps: (1) interaction, (2) social presence alignment, (3) unit of analysis definition, and (4) network statistics and inferential analysis selection. We also identified five ways in which the i-SUN model contributes to the advancement of SLA in online interaction research and provide recommendations for empirical validation. As part of a sequence of manuscripts, we seek to offer a unique perspective to online learning researchers and practitioners by focusing on the social and pedagogical implications of applying network analysis to understand online learning interaction.
Genetic association of lipids and lipid-lowering drugs with sepsis: a Mendelian randomization and mediation analysis
Authors: Lou Chen , Meng Zhizhen , Shi Yi-Yi , Zheng Rui , Qian Song-Zan , Pan Jingye
Published: August 2023

Background

The impact of lipid-lowering medications on sepsis is still not well defined. A Mendelian randomization (MR) study was carried out to probe the causal connections between genetically determined lipids, lipid-reducing drugs, and the risk of sepsis.

Materials and methods

Data on total serum cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein A-I (ApoA-I), apolipoprotein B (ApoB), and triglycerides (TG) were retrieved from the MR-Base platform and the Global Lipids Genetics Consortium in 2021 (GLGC2021). Our study categorized sepsis into two groups: total sepsis and 28-day mortality of sepsis patients (sepsis28). The inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method was the primary method used in MR analysis. Cochran's Q test and the MR-Egger intercept method were used to assess the heterogeneity and pleiotropy.

Results

In the MR analysis, we found that ApoA-I played a suggestively positive role in protecting against both total sepsis (OR, 0.863 per SD increase in ApoA-I; 95% CI, 0.780–0.955; P = 0.004) and sepsis28 (OR, 0.759; 95% CI, 0.598–0.963; P = 0.023). HDL-C levels were also found to suggestively reduce the incidence of total sepsis (OR, 0.891 per SD increase in HDL-C; 95% CI, 0.802–0.990; P = 0.031). Reverse-MR showed that sepsis28 led to a decrease in HDL-C level and an increase in TG level. In drug-target MR, we found that HMGCR inhibitors positively protected against total sepsis (1OR, 0.719 per SD reduction in LDL-C; 95% CI, 0.540–0.958; P = 0.024). LDL-C and HDL-C proxied CETP inhibitors were found to have a protective effect on total sepsis, with only LDL-C proxied CETP inhibitors showing a suggestively protective effect on sepsis28. In Mediated-MR, BMI exhibited a negative indirect effect in HMGCR inhibitors curing sepsis. The indirect impact of ApoA-I explained over 50% of the curative effects of CETP inhibitors in sepsis.

Conclusions

Our MR study suggested that ApoA-I and HDL-C protected against sepsis, while HMGCR and CETP inhibitors showed therapeutic potential beyond lipid-lowering effects. ApoA-I explained the effects of CETP inhibitors. Our study illuminates how lipids affect sepsis patients and the effectiveness of new drugs, opening new avenues for sepsis treatment.
The application and mechanism of Chinese medicine in the upstream treatment of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Liu Min , Mao Chenhan , Zhao Fusen , Chen Zhaoyang , Wang Xindong
Published: August 2023

Upstream treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF, for short) is a new approach to the prevention and treatment of AF with non-antiarrhythmic drugs, which is essentially primary and secondary prevention of AF. The former refers to the prevention of AF by controlling risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart failure before AF occurs, and the latter mainly refers to targeting ion channels, inflammation, oxidative stress, and other pathways to reduce or reverse atrial electrical and structural remodeling, reduction of AF load, and reduction of the chance of AF occurrence or progression. More and more studies have shown that many traditional Chinese medicines, active ingredients of Chinese medicines, and Chinese herbal formulas have definite effects on the upstream treatment of AF, but their mechanisms of action are different. Therefore, we summarized the relevant literature on the application and mechanisms of Chinese medicine on the upstream treatment of AF in recent years, hoping to be helpful for subsequent studies.
Implementation and impact of a point of care electroencephalography platform in a community hospital: a cohort study
Authors: Ward Jared , Green Adam , Cole Robert , Zarbiv Samson , Dumond Stanley , Clough Jessica , Rincon Fred
Published: August 2023

Objective

To determine the clinical and financial feasibility of implementing a poc-EEG system in a community hospital.

Design

Data from a prospective cohort displaying abnormal mentation concerning for NCSE or rhythmic movements due to potential underlying seizure necessitating EEG was collected and compared to a control group containing patient data from 2020.

Setting

A teaching community hospital with limited EEG support.

Patients

The study group consisted of patients requiring emergent EEG during hours when conventional EEG was unavailable. Control group is made up of patients who were emergently transferred for EEG during the historical period.

Interventions

Application and interpretation of Ceribell®, a poc-EEG system.

Measurement and main results

88 patients were eligible with indications for poc-EEG including hyperkinetic movements post-cardiac arrest (19%), abnormal mentation after possible seizure (46%), and unresponsive patients with concern for NCSE (35%). 21% had seizure burden on poc-EEG and 4.5% had seizure activity on follow-up EEG. A mean of 1.1 patients per month required transfer to a tertiary care center for continuous EEG. For the control period, a total of 22 patients or a mean of 2 patients per month were transferred for emergent EEG. Annually, we observed a decrease in the number of transferred patients in the post-implementation period by 10.8 (95% CI: −2.17–23.64, p = 0.1). Financial analysis of the control found the hospital system incurred a loss of $3,463.11 per patient transferred for an annual loss of $83,114.64. In the study group, this would compute to an annual loss of $45,713.05 for an overall decrease in amount lost of $37,401.59. We compared amount lost per patient between historical controls and study patients. Implementation of poc-EEG resulted in an overall decrease in annual amount lost of $37,401.59 by avoidance of transfer fees. We calculated the amount gained per patient in the study group to be $13,936.44. To cover the cost of the poc-EEG system, 8.59 patients would need to avoid transfer annually.

Conclusion

A poc-EEG system can be safely implemented in a community hospital leading to an absolute decrease in transfers to tertiary hospital. This decrease in patient transfers can cover the cost of implementing the poc-EEG system. The additional benefits from transfer avoidance include clinical benefits such as rapid appropriate treatment of seizures and avoidance of unnecessary treatment as well as negating transfer risk and keeping the patient at their local hospital.
Does green credit affect enterprises’ energy efficiency?
Authors: Zhang Chong , Zhou Chaobo
Published: August 2023

Whether green credit promotes heavily polluting enterprises’ energy efficiency is indeed of great practical significance for China to early achieve the “double carbon” goal. This paper uses the green credit guideline issued in 2012 as a natural experiment drawing on the relevant data of Chinese listed enterprises from 2009 to 2020. It adopts a difference-in-differences model to assess the effect of green credit guideline on energy efficiency. The research finds green credit guideline improve the energy efficiency level of pilot enterprises by 0.0141 compared to non-pilot enterprises, and green credit guideline can improve energy efficiency by encouraging enterprises to increase research and development investment. Further, trade credit promotes the positive impact of green credit guideline on the energy efficiency. Moreover, green credit guideline plays a role in stimulating energy efficiency in enterprises in regions with high marketization degree, enterprises with high liquidity ratio and state-owned enterprises.
Experimental study of thermal runaway process of 256Ah prismatic nickel-rich battery
Authors: Wei Ningning , Li Minghai
Published: August 2023

Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are plagued by risks of combustion and explosion during thermal runaway (TR), which hinder their broader applications. Currently, there is limited research on thermal runaway experiments for batteries with a capacity exceeding 200 Ah. In this study, a non-commercial 256 Ah prismatic battery was utilized, featuring Li (Ni0.8Mn0.1Co0.1)O2 as the cathode material and silicon-doped graphite as the anode material. The investigation focused on the thermal runaway characteristics of the battery under 100% state of charge (SOC) conditions. Three repetitive thermal runaway experiments were conducted within a 1000L lithium battery constant volume test chamber (AEC) under a nitrogen environment. Temperatures at various points within the battery were recorded during the experiments, and high-speed cameras were employed to capture moments of thermal runaway. The research findings are as follows: 1) The ejection velocity of smoke at the instant of safety valve opening was measured at approximately 140 m/s, while the velocity of the ejected flame was approximately 55 m/s. 2) Within an extremely short time range after safety valve opening, the temperature at the safety valve nozzle reached a peak value of 701.8°C ± 42 C. 3) The average duration of ultra-high-speed ejections was measured at 5.0 ± 1.6 s, high-speed ejections lasted for 11.9 ± 2.7 s, and slow-speed ejections exhibited an average duration of 21.6 ± 3.7 s, resulting in a total ejection duration of 36.2 ± 4.7 s. This study provides valuable insights into the original state of the jetting process during thermal runaway in high-capacity LIBs and offers certain guidance for BTMS design.
Whole genome sequencing in ROHHAD trios proved inconclusive: what’s beyond?
Authors: Grossi A. , Rusmini M. , Cusano R. , Massidda M. , Santamaria G. , Napoli F. , Angelelli A. , Fava D. , Uva P. , Ceccherini I. , Maghnie M.
Published: August 2023

Rapid-onset Obesity with Hypothalamic dysfunction, Hypoventilation and Autonomic Dysregulation (ROHHAD) is a rare, life-threatening, pediatric disorder of unknown etiology, whose diagnosis is made difficult by poor knowledge of clinical manifestation, and lack of any confirmatory tests. Children with ROHHAD usually present with rapid onset weight gain which may be followed, over months or years, by hypothalamic dysfunction, hypoventilation, autonomic dysfunction, including impaired bowel motility, and tumors of neural crest origin. Despite the lack of evidence of inheritance in ROHHAD, several studies have been conducted in recent years that have explored possible genetic origins, with unsuccessful results. In order to broaden the search for possible genetic risk factors, an attempt was made to analyse the non-coding variants in two trios (proband with parents), recruited in the Gaslini Children’s Hospital in Genoa (Italy). Both patients were females, with a typical history of ROHHAD. Gene variants (single nucleotide variants, short insertions/deletions, splice variants or in tandem expansion of homopolymeric tracts) or altered genomic regions (copy number variations or structural variants) shared between the two probands were searched. Currently, we have not found any potentially pathogenic changes, consistent with the ROHHAD clinical phenotype, and involving genes, regions or pathways shared between the two trios. To definitively rule out the genetic etiology, third-generation sequencing technologies (e.g., long-reads sequencing, optical mapping) should be applied, as well as other pathways, including those associated with immunological and autoimmune disorders, should be explored, making use not only of genomics but also of different -omic datasets.
Analysis of mRNA m6A modification and mRNA expression profiles in middle ear cholesteatoma
Authors: Xie Shumin , Jin Li , He Jun , Fu Jinfeng , Yin Tuanfang , Ren Jihao , Liu Wei
Published: August 2023

Introduction: Middle ear cholesteatoma is characterized by the hyperproliferation of keratinocytes. In recent decades, N6-methyladenosine (m6A) modification has been shown to play an essential role in the pathogenesis of many proliferative diseases. However, neither the m6A modification profile nor its potential role in the pathogenesis of middle ear cholesteatoma has currently been investigated. Therefore, this study aimed to explore m6A modification patterns in middle ear cholesteatoma.

Materials and methods: An m6A mRNA epitranscriptomic microarray analysis was performed to analyze m6A modification patterns in middle ear cholesteatoma tissue (n = 5) and normal post-auricular skin samples (n = 5). Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses were performed to predict the potential biological functions and signaling pathways underlying the pathogenesis of middle ear cholesteatoma. Subsequently, m6A modification levels were verified by methylated RNA immunoprecipitation–qPCR (MeRIP–qPCR) in middle ear cholesteatoma tissue and normal skin samples, respectively.

Results: A total of 6,865 distinctive m6A-modified mRNAs were identified, including 4,620 hypermethylated and 2,245 hypomethylated mRNAs, as well as 9,162 differentially expressed mRNAs, including 4,891 upregulated and 4,271 downregulated mRNAs, in the middle ear cholesteatoma group relative to the normal skin group. An association analysis between methylation and gene expression demonstrated that expression of 1,926 hypermethylated mRNAs was upregulated, while expression of 2,187 hypomethylated mRNAs and 38 hypermethylated mRNAs was downregulated. Moreover, GO analysis suggested that differentially methylated mRNAs might influence cellular processes and biological behaviors, such as cell differentiation, biosynthetic processes, regulation of molecular functions, and keratinization. KEGG pathway analysis demonstrated that the hypermethylated transcripts were involved in 26 pathways, including the Hippo signaling pathway, the p53 signaling pathway, and the inflammatory mediator regulation of transient receptor potential (TRP) channels, while the hypomethylated transcripts were involved in 13 pathways, including bacterial invasion of epithelial cells, steroid biosynthesis, and the Hippo signaling pathway.

Conclusion: Our study presents m6A modification patterns in middle ear cholesteatoma, which may exert regulatory roles in middle ear cholesteatoma. The present study provides directions for mRNA m6A modification-based research on the epigenetic etiology and pathogenesis of middle ear cholesteatoma.
Comparative analysis of the effect of electromyogram to bispectral index and 95% spectral edge frequency under remimazolam and propofol anesthesia: a prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Xin Yueyang , Ma Li , Xie Tianli , Liang Yuhui , Ma Miao , Chu Tiantian , Liu Cheng , Xu Aijun
Published: August 2023

Background

Bispectral index (BIS), an index used to monitor the depth of anesthesia, can be interfered with by the electromyogram (EMG) signal. The 95% spectral edge frequency (SEF95) also can reflect the sedation depth. Remimazolam in monitored anesthesia care results in higher BIS values than propofol, though in the same sedation level assessed by Modified Observers Assessment of Alertness and Sedation (MOAA/S). Our study aims to illustrate whether EMG is involved in remimazolam causing higher BIS value than propofol preliminarily and to explore the correlations among BIS, EMG, and SEF95 under propofol and remimazolam anesthesia.

Patients and methods

Twenty-eight patients were randomly divided into propofol (P) and remimazolam (RM) groups. Patients in the two groups received alfentanil 10 μg/kg, followed by propofol 2 mg/kg and remimazolam 0.15 mg/kg. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), and oxygen saturation (SpO2) were routinely monitored. The BIS, EMG, and SEF95 were obtained through BIS VISTATM. The primary outcomes were BIS, EMG, and the correlation between BIS and EMG in both groups. Other outcomes were SEF95, the correlation between BIS and SEF95, and the correlation between EMG and SEF95. And all the statistical and comparative analysis between these signals was conducted with SPSS 26.0 and GraphPad Prism 8.

Results

BIS values, EMG, and SEF95 were significantly higher in the RM group than in the P group (all p < 0.001). There was a strong positive correlation between BIS and EMG in the RM group (r = 0.416). Nevertheless, the BIS in the P group showed a weak negative correlation with EMG (r = −0.219). Both P (r = 0.787) and RM group (r = 0.559) had a reasonably significant correlation coefficient between BIS and SEF95. SEF95 almost did not correlate with EMG in the RM group (r = 0.101).

Conclusion

Bispectral index can be interfered with high EMG intensity under remimazolam anesthesia. However, EMG can hardly affect the accuracy of BIS under propofol anesthesia due to low EMG intensity and a weak negative correlation between EMG and BIS. Moreover, SEF95 may have a great application prospect in predicting the sedation condition of remimazolam.
Global impact of COVID-19 on corneal donor tissue harvesting and corneal transplantation
Authors: Mousavi Morteza , Kahuam-López Nicolás , Iovieno Alfonso , Yeung Sonia N.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

The purpose of this review is to consolidate and examine the available literature on the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and its effect on corneal transplantation and eye banking.

Methods

A primary literature search was conducted using the PubMed (Medline) database with keywords and MeSH terms such as “corneal transplantation,” “eye banks,” “keratoplasty” and then were combined with COVID-19. Relevant articles through September 2022 were assessed and 25 articles were included in this review.

Results

Donor tissue volumes declined globally during lockdown periods due to a lower number of referrals and tighter tissue screening guidelines. Rates of elective surgeries decreased in the lockdown period compared to respective periods in previous years. However, changes in rates of emergency procedures were not uniform across different regions. Moreover, rates of different elective corneal grafts [i.e., penetrating keratoplasty (PK), endothelial keratoplasty (EK), or anterior lamellar keratoplasty (ALK)] were affected differently with the pattern of change being dependent on region-specific factors.

Conclusion

Both donor tissue volumes and rates of corneal transplant procedures were affected by lockdown restrictions. The underlying etiology of these changes differed by region. Examining the range of impact across many countries as well as the contributing factors involved will provide guidance for future global pandemics.
VNN1 as a potential biomarker for sepsis diagnosis and its implications in immune infiltration and tumor prognosis
Authors: Guan Wei , Xu Jiaruo , Shi Yinghan , Wang Xiuli , Gu Shaoyan , Xie Lixin
Published: August 2023

Background

This study explored novel biomarkers for diagnosing sepsis, a severe disease prevalent in clinical settings, particularly threatening to elderly patients.

Methods

Using microarray gene expression datasets and fatty acid metabolism signatures, we identified differentially expressed genes between sepsis and healthy control groups. Correlations between candidate genes, immune cells, and immune function were assessed. Logistic regression analysis and single-gene GSEA analysis were performed to identify potential biomarkers. The biomarkers’ association with different types of tumors was investigated.

Results

Twelve genes related to fatty acid metabolism were excluded. CA4, OLAN, and VNN1 were found relevant to immune cells and function. Among these, only VNN1 showed statistical significance (p < 0.05), with a strong area under the ROC curve (0.995). High VNN1 expression indicated activation of certain metabolic pathways, while low expression suggested potential autoimmune responses. VNN1 was up-regulated in eight tumors and down-regulated in eight others. High VNN1 expression was linked to poor prognosis in six types of tumors, and low expression was linked to poor prognosis in four types of tumors. VNN1 expression showed correlations with stromal scores, immune scores, and cancer purity in different types of tumors.

Conclusion

VNN1 holds promise as a potential biomarker for sepsis diagnosis and is significant in identifying immune infiltration in tumor tissue and predicting tumor prognosis.
Spatial distribution and core community of diazotrophs in Biological soil crusts and subsoils in temperate semi-arid and arid deserts of China
Authors: Tang Kai , Liang Yungang , Yuan Bo , Meng Jianyu , Feng Fuying
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Biological soil crusts (BSCs) are distributed in arid and semiarid regions, and they function as important microhabitats for nitrogen fixation. The diazotroph community is critical for nitrogen fixation in BSCs and their subsoils. However, little is known about the key groups in different types of BSCs and subsoils in temperate semi-arid or arid deserts.

Methods

Here, we sampled three types of BSCs and their subsoils from the Inner Mongolian plateau, investigated the distribution characteristics of the diazotroph community by high-throughput sequencing, predicted keystone species using the molecular ecological network analyses pipeline (MENAP), and verified their close relationship with the available nitrogen (AN) content.

Results

The results showed that available nitrogen content in BSCs was higher than that in subsoils in three different types of BSCs, and there were differences among seasons and according to the mean annual precipitation. The abundance of diazotrophs was higher in Cyano-BSCs, while diversity had no significant difference among BSCs and subsoils. Cyanobacteria and Proteobacteria, Nostocaceae and Scytonemataceae, Skermanella, Scytonema, Azohydromonas, Nostoc and Trichormus were the dominant phyla, families, and genera, respectively. The dominant groups belong to Skermanella, Scytonema, and Nostoc formed the core diazotroph community in the three types of BSCs and subsoils, and each had a close relationship with AN.

Discussion

These results indicate that diazotrophs in BSCs and subsoils had high diversity, and the core diazotroph communities have a close relationship with nitrogen fixation and that they may be the main contributor to nitrogen fixing in BSCs and subsoils in temperate deserts.
Postbiotics in oncology: science or science fiction?
Authors: Kudra Anna , Kaźmierczak-Siedlecka Karolina , Sobocki Bartosz Kamil , Muszyński Damian , Połom Joanna , Carbone Ludovico , Marano Luigi , Roviello Franco , Kalinowski Leszek , Stachowska Ewa
Published: August 2023

The gut microbiome has been increasingly understood to play a critical role in carcinogenesis and cancer disease progression. The most recent research advancements have shown that different tools of microbiota manipulation contribute to gut microbiome–immune–oncology axis modulation, offering exciting opportunities for targeted interventions aimed at improving the efficacy of established anti-cancer therapy. Postbiotics are a new entry among the biotics showing beneficial effects on human health while not requiring living cells to obtain the health effect and therefore not subjected to food safety rules for live microorganisms. Postbiotics are recently defined as the “preparation of inanimate microorganisms and/or their components that confers a health benefit on the host” and have gradually become the focus of the scientific community. Since the beginning of research on this topic, numerous studies about postbiotics have been proven to strengthen the gut barrier, reduce inflammation, and promote antimicrobial activity. However, research on the potential application of cancer therapy is still at the early stages of its efforts to uncover all the secrets surrounding postbiotics. This review aims to increase our understanding of the anti-cancer effect of postbiotics throughout a “bibliographic journey” on the biological activity of their components, including exopolysaccharides, cell wall fragments, tryptophan metabolites, enzymes, bacterial lysates, extracellular vesicles, and short-chain fatty acids, highlighting their perspective as a new supportive therapeutic method of treatment and identifying the literature gaps where further research is needed.
Inflammasome activation by viral infection: mechanisms of activation and regulation
Authors: Shi Wen , Jin Mengyun , Chen Hao , Wu Zongxue , Yuan Liuyang , Liang Si , Wang Xiaohan , Memon Fareed Uddin , Eldemery Fatma , Si Hongbin , Ou Changbo
Published: August 2023

Viral diseases are the most common problems threatening human health, livestock, and poultry industries worldwide. Viral infection is a complex and competitive dynamic biological process between a virus and a host/target cell. During viral infection, inflammasomes play important roles in the host and confer defense mechanisms against the virus. Inflammasomes are polymeric protein complexes and are considered important components of the innate immune system. These immune factors recognize the signals of cell damage or pathogenic microbial infection after activation by the canonical pathway or non-canonical pathway and transmit signals to the immune system to initiate the inflammatory responses. However, some viruses inhibit the activation of the inflammasomes in order to replicate and proliferate in the host. In recent years, the role of inflammasome activation and/or inhibition during viral infection has been increasingly recognized. Therefore, in this review, we describe the biological properties of the inflammasome associated with viral infection, discuss the potential mechanisms that activate and/or inhibit NLRP1, NLRP3, and AIM2 inflammasomes by different viruses, and summarize the reciprocal regulatory effects of viral infection on the NLRP3 inflammasome in order to explore the relationship between viral infection and inflammasomes. This review will pave the way for future studies on the activation mechanisms of inflammasomes and provide novel insights for the development of antiviral therapies.
3D-printed helmet-type neuro-navigation approach (I-Helmet) for transcranial magnetic stimulation
Authors: Wang He , Cui Dong , Jin Jingna , Wang Xin , Li Ying , Liu Zhipeng , Yin Tao
Published: August 2023

Neuro-navigation is a key technology to ensure the clinical efficacy of TMS. However, the neuro-navigation system based on positioning sensor is currently unable to be promoted and applied in clinical practice due to its time-consuming and high-cost. In the present study, we designed I-Helmet system to promote an individualized and clinically friendly neuro-navigation approach to TMS clinical application. I-Helmet system is based on C++ with a graphical user interface that allows users to design a 3D-printed helmet model for coil navigation. Besides, a dedicated coil positioning accuracy detection method was promoted based on three-dimensional (3D) printing and 3D laser scanning for evaluation. T1 images were collected from 24 subjects, and based on each image, phantom were created to simulate skin and hair. Six 3D-printed helmets with the head positioning hole enlarged by 0–5% tolerance in 1% increments were designed to evaluate the influences of skin, hair, and helmet-tolerance on the positioning accuracy and contact force of I-Helmet. Finally, I-Helmet system was evaluated by comparing its positioning accuracy with three skin hardnesses, three hair styles, three operators, and with or without landmarks. The accuracy of the proposed coil positioning accuracy detection method was about 0.30 mm in position and 0.22° in orientation. Skin and hair had significant influences on positioning accuracy (p < 0.0001), whereas different skin hardnesses, hair styles, and operators did not (p > 0.05). The tolerance of the helmet presented significant influences on positioning accuracy (p < 0.0001) and contact force (p < 0.0001). The positioning accuracy significantly increased (p < 0.0001) with landmark guided I-Helmet. 3D-printed helmet-type Neuro-navigation approach (I-Helmet) with 3% tolerance and landmarks met the positioning requirements for TMS in clinical practice with less than 5 N mean contact force, 3–5 mm positioning accuracy, 65.7 s mean operation time, and 50-yuan material cost. All the results suggest that the cost of I-Helmet system may be much less than the that of training clinical doctors to position the coil of TMS operation during short period of time.
The emerging role of copper in depression
Authors: Chen Jinhua , Song Wenping , Zhang Wenzhou
Published: August 2023

Copper (Cu) is an essential trace element in the brain and serves as an important cofactor for numerous enzymes involved in a wide range of biochemical processes including neurobehavioral, mitochondrial respiration, and antioxidant effects. Recent studies have demonstrated that copper dyshomeostasis is tightly associated with the development of depression by inducing oxidative stress and inflammatory responses. However, these findings have remained controversial so far. Cumulative studies have shown a positive association, while some other studies showed no association and even a negative association between serum/plasma copper level and depression. Based on these conflicted results, the association was speculated to be due to the clinical features of the population, stages of the disease, severity of copper excess, and types of specimens detected in these studies. In addition, there was an inverse association between dietary copper intake and depression. Furthermore, increasing copper intake could influence dietary zinc and iron intake to prevent and treat depression. Thus, copper supplementation may be a good measure to manage depression. This review provided a deeper understanding of the potential applicability of copper in the prevention and treatment of depression.
Interpreting the meaning of changes in hippocampal volume associated with vestibular loss
Authors: Smith Paul F.
Published: August 2023

Many studies have documented cognitive deficits, especially spatial cognitive deficits, in patients with some form of vestibular loss. Almost 20 years ago, hippocampal (HPC) atrophy was reported to be correlated with spatial memory deficits in such patients and the idea has gradually emerged that HPC atrophy may be causally responsible for the cognitive deficits. However, the results of studies of HPC volume following vestibular loss have not always been consistent, and a number of studies have reported no evidence of HPC atrophy. This paper argues that HPC atrophy, if it does occur following vestibular loss, may not be directly, causally responsible for the cognitive deficits, and that it is more likely that rapid functional changes in the HPC are responsible, due to the interruption of the transmission of vestibular information to the HPC. The argument presented here rests on 3 tranches of evidence: (1) Cognitive deficits have been observed in humans even in the absence of HPC atrophy; (2) HPC atrophy has not been reported in animal studies following vestibular loss, despite cognitive deficits; and (3) Animal studies have shown that the interruption of the transmission of vestibular information to the HPC has immediate consequences for HPC place cells, far too quickly to be explained by HPC atrophy. It is possible that HPC atrophy, when it does occur, is related to the longer-term consquences of living with vestibular loss, which are likely to increase circulating cortisol.
Early transcriptome changes associated with western diet induced NASH in Ldlr−/− mice points to activation of hepatic macrophages and an acute phase response
Authors: Padiadpu Jyothi , Spooner Melinda H. , Li Zhipeng , Newman Nolan , Löhr Christiane V. , Apperson K. Denise , Dzutsev Amiran , Trinchieri Giorgio , Shulzhenko Natalia , Morgun Andrey , Jump Donald B.
Published: August 2023

Background

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a global health problem. Identifying early gene indicators contributing to the onset and progression of NAFLD has the potential to develop novel targets for early therapeutic intervention. We report on the early and late transcriptomic signatures of western diet (WD)-induced nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) in female and male Ldlr−/− mice, with time-points at 1 week and 40 weeks on the WD. Control Ldlr−/− mice were maintained on a low-fat diet (LFD) for 1 and 40 weeks.

Methods

The approach included quantitation of anthropometric and hepatic histology markers of disease as well as the hepatic transcriptome.

Results

Only mice fed the WD for 40 weeks revealed evidence of NASH, i.e., hepatic steatosis and fibrosis. RNASeq transcriptome analysis, however, revealed multiple cell-specific changes in gene expression after 1 week that persisted to 40 weeks on the WD. These early markers of disease include induction of acute phase response (Saa1-2, Orm2), fibrosis (Col1A1, Col1A2, TGFβ) and NASH associated macrophage (NAM, i.e., Trem2 high, Mmp12 low). We also noted the induction of transcripts associated with metabolic syndrome, including Mmp12, Trem2, Gpnmb, Lgals3 and Lpl. Finally, 1 week of WD feeding was sufficient to significantly induce TNFα, a cytokine involved in both hepatic and systemic inflammation.

Conclusion

This study revealed early onset changes in the hepatic transcriptome that develop well before any anthropometric or histological evidence of NALFD or NASH and pointed to cell-specific targeting for the prevention of disease progression.
The estimated dietary and health impact of implementing the recently approved ‘high in’ front-of-package nutrition symbol in Canada: a food substitution scenario modeling study
Authors: Flexner Nadia , Ahmed Mavra , Mulligan Christine , Bernstein Jodi T. , Christoforou Anthea K. , Lee Jennifer J. , Khandpur Neha , L’Abbe Mary R.
Published: August 2023

Background

Front-of-pack labeling (FOPL) has been identified as a cost-effective policy to promote healthy food environments and to help consumers make healthier food choices. Consumer surveys report that after implementation of mandatory ‘high in’ FOPL symbols between 30 and 70% of consumers choose or were willing to choose products with fewer ‘high in’ symbols. Health Canada has recently published FOPL regulations that will require prepackaged food and beverages that meet or exceed thresholds for sodium, total sugars, or saturated fat to display a ‘high in’ FOPL nutrition symbol.

Objectives

The aims were to estimate the potential (1) dietary impact of substituting foods with similar foods that would display at least one less ‘high in’ symbol, and (2) the number of diet-related noncommunicable disease (NCD) deaths that could be averted or delayed due to estimated dietary changes.

Methods

Baseline and counterfactual intakes of sodium, total sugars, saturated fats, and energy were estimated among Canadian adults (n = 11,992) using both available days of 24 h-recall data from the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey-Nutrition (CCHS). Similar foods to those reported in CCHS that would display at least one less ‘high in’ symbol (n = 239) were identified using a Canadian branded food composition database. Based on current FOPL consumer research, identified foods were substituted for 30, 50, and 70% of randomly selected CCHS-Nutrition adult participants and for all adult participants. Potential health impacts were estimated using the Preventable Risk Integrated ModEl.

Results

Mean dietary reductions of between 73 and 259 mg/day of sodium, 2.0 and 6.9 g/day of total sugars, 0.2 and 0.5 g/day of saturated fats, and 14 and 46 kcal/day of energy were estimated. Between 2,148 (95% UI 1,913–2,386) and 7,047 (95% UI 6,249–7,886) of deaths due to diet-related NCDs, primarily from cardiovascular diseases (70%), could potentially be averted or delayed if Canadians choose products with fewer ‘high in’ symbols.

Conclusion

Results suggest that FOPL could significantly reduce sodium and total sugar intakes among Canadian adults, the consequences of which could avert or delay an important number of diet-related NCD deaths. These findings provide relevant data to support the importance of the impending FOPL regulations.
Expansion of bovine skeletal muscle stem cells from spinner flasks to benchtop stirred-tank bioreactors for up to 38 days
Authors: Tzimorotas Dimitrios , Solberg Nina Therese , Andreassen R. Christel , Moutsatsou Panagiota , Bodiou Vincent , Pedersen Mona Elisabeth , Rønning Sissel Beate
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Successful long-term expansion of skeletal muscle satellite cells (MuSCs) on a large scale is fundamental for cultivating animal cells for protein production. Prerequisites for efficient cell expansion include maintaining essential native cell activities such as cell adhesion, migration, proliferation, and differentiation while ensuring consistent reproducibility.

Method

This study investigated the growth of bovine MuSC culture using low-volume spinner flasks and a benchtop stirred-tank bioreactor (STR).

Results and discussion

Our results showed for the first time the expansion of primary MuSCs for 38 days in a bench-top STR run with low initial seeding density and FBS reduction, supported by increased expression of the satellite cell marker PAX7 and reduced expression of differentiation-inducing genes like MYOG, even without adding p38-MAPK inhibitors. Moreover, the cells retained their ability to proliferate, migrate, and differentiate after enzymatic dissociation from the microcarriers. We also showed reproducible results in a separate biological benchtop STR run.