bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sexually transmitted infections among key populations in India: A protocol for systematic review
Authors: Bhatta Mihir , Majumdar Agniva , Ghosh Utsha , Ghosh Piyali , Banerji Papiya , Aridoss Santhakumar , Royal Abhisek , Biswas Subrata , Venkatesh Bhumika Tumkur , Adhikary Rajatsuvra , Dutta Shanta
Published: March 2023

Background

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are one of the leading causes of health, and economic burdens in the developing world, leading to considerable morbidity, mortality, and stigma. The incidence and prevalence of the four curable STIs viz. syphilis, gonorrhoea, chlamydia, and trichomoniasis vary remarkably across different geographical locations. In India, the prevalence of four curable STI among general populations is in between 0 to 3.9 percent. However, it is assumed that STI prevalence is much higher among subpopulations practicing high-risk behaviour. Like men who have sex with men (MSM), transgender (TG), injecting drug users (IDU), and female sex workers (FSW).

Objectives

In the present circumstances, a systematic review is necessary to integrate the available data from previously published peer-reviewed articles and published reports from several competent authorities to provide the prevalence and geographical distribution of the four curable STIs among the key population of India.

Methods

All available articles will be retrieved from PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane database, Scopus, Science Direct, and the Global Health network using the appropriate search terms. The data will be extracted through data extraction form as per PICOS (population, intervention, comparison, outcome, study design) framework. Risk of bias and quality assessment will be performed according to the situation with the help of available conventional protocol.

Discussion

The future systematic review, generated from the present protocol, may provide evidence of the prevalence and geographical distribution of the four curable STIs among the key population of India. We hope that the findings of the future systematic review will strengthen the existing surveillance system in India, to determine the above-mention STIs prevalence among key populations in India.

Protocol registration number: International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number CRD42022346470.
Antibody conjugates for targeted delivery of Toll-like receptor 9 agonist to the tumor tissue
Authors: Corogeanu Diana , Zaki Kam , Beavil Andrew J. , Arnold James N. , Diebold Sandra S.
Published: March 2023

Imiquimod, a Toll-like receptor 7 (TLR7) agonist is routinely used for topical administration in basal cell carcinoma and stage zero melanoma. Similarly, the TLR agonist Bacillus Calmette-Guérin is used for the local treatment of bladder cancer and clinical trials showed treatment efficacy of intratumoral injections with TLR9 agonists. However, when administered systemically, endosomal TLR agonists cause adverse responses due to broad immune activation. Hence, strategies for targeted delivery of TLR agonists to the tumor tissue are needed to enable the widespread use of endosomal TLR agonists in the context of tumor immunotherapy. One strategy for targeted delivery of TLR agonist is their conjugation to tumor antigen-specific therapeutic antibodies. Such antibody-TLR agonist conjugates act synergistically by inducing local TLR-mediated innate immune activation which complements the anti-tumor immune mechanisms induced by the therapeutic antibody. In this study, we explored different conjugation strategies for TLR9 agonists to immunoglobulin G (IgG). We evaluated biochemical conjugation of immunostimulatory CpG oligodesoxyribonucleotides (ODN) to the HER2-specific therapeutic antibody Trastuzumab with different cross-linkers comparing stochastic with site-specific conjugation. The physiochemical make-up and biological activities of the generated Trastuzumab-ODN conjugates were characterized in vitro and demonstrated that site-specific conjugation of CpG ODN is crucial for maintaining the antigen-binding capabilities of Trastuzumab. Furthermore, site-specific conjugate was effective in promoting anti-tumor immune responses in vivo in a pseudo-metastasis mouse model with engineered human HER2-transgenic tumor cells. In this in vivo model, co-delivery of Trastuzumab and CpG ODN in form of site-specific conjugates was superior to co-injection of unconjugated Trastuzumab, CpG ODN or stochastic conjugate in promoting T cell activation and expansion. Thereby, this study highlights that site-specific conjugation of CpG ODN to therapeutic antibodies targeting tumor markers is a feasible and more reliable approach for generation of conjugates which retain and combine the functional properties of the adjuvant and the antibody.
Crisis communication in the WHO COVID-19 press conferences: A retrospective analysis
Authors: He Sike , Li Dapeng , Liu Chang-Hai , Xiong Ying , Liu Dan , Feng Jiaming , Wen Ju
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The objective of this study is to investigate, from a longitudinal perspective, how WHO communicated COVID-19 related information to the public through its press conferences during the first two years of the pandemic.

Methods

The transcripts of 195 WHO COVID-19 press conferences held between January 22, 2020 and February 23, 2022 were collected. All transcripts were syntactically parsed to extract highly frequent noun chunks that were potential topics of the press conferences. First-order autoregression models were fit to identify “hot” and “cold” topics. In addition, sentiments and emotions expressed in the transcripts were analyzed using lexicon-based sentiment/emotion analyses. Mann-Kendall tests were performed to capture the possible trends of sentiments and emotions over time.

Results

First, eleven “hot” topics were identified. These topics were pertinent to anti-pandemic measures, disease surveillance and development, and vaccine-related issues. Second, no significant trend was captured in sentiments. Last, significant downward trends were found in anticipation, surprise, anger, disgust, and fear. However, no significant trends were found in joy, trust, and sadness.

Conclusions

This retrospective study provided new empirical evidence on how WHO communicated issues pertaining to COVID-19 to the general public through its press conferences. With the help of the study, members of the general public, health organizations, and other stake-holders will be able to better understand the way in which WHO has responded to various critical events during the first two years of the pandemic.
Relationship between fall history and toe grip strength in older adults with knee osteoarthritis in Japan: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Mawarikado Yuya , Inagaki Yusuke , Fujii Tadashi , Kubo Takanari , Kido Akira , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: March 2023

Background

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA), one of the most common musculoskeletal diseases in older adults, is associated with a high incidence of falls. Similarly, toe grip strength (TGS) is associated with a history of falls in older adults; however, the relationship between TGS and falls in older adults with KOA who are at risk of falling is not known. Therefore, this study aimed to determine if TGS is associated with a history of falls in older adults with KOA.

Methods

The study participants, older adults with KOA scheduled to undergo unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA), were divided into two groups: non-fall (n = 256) and fall groups (n = 74). Descriptive data, fall-related assessments, modified Fall Efficacy Scale (mFES), radiographic data, pain, and physical function including TGS were evaluated. The assessment was conducted on the day before performing TKA. Mann–Whitney and chi-squared tests were performed to compare the two groups. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the association of each outcome with the presence or absence of falls.

Results

Mann-Whitney U test revealed that the fall group had statistically significantly lower height, TGS on the affected and unaffected sides, and mFES. Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed that the incidence of fall history is associated with TGS on the affected side; the weaker the affected TGS of the KOA, the more likely the individual is to fall.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that TGS on the affected side is related to a history of falls in older adults with KOA. The significance of evaluating TGS among patients with KOA in routine clinical practice was demonstrated.
El trip a las comunas. La búsqueda de una alternativa a la familia en la España desarrollista (1965-1975)
Authors: Toledo Machado Luis
Published: March 2023

El artículo intenta explicar por qué, a finales de la década de 1960, una parte de la juventud española trató de poner en marcha comunas contraculturales similares a las que ya habían sido fundadas en otros países del entorno occidental, como los Estados Unidos, el Reino Unido, Alemania o los Países Bajos. Se examinan diversas fuentes (fanzines, prensa, literatura científica de la época, entrevistas y bibliografía secundaria) para entender las vías a través de las cuales penetraron estas prácticas en la España desarrollista, así como las razones que llevaron a sus protagonistas a diagnosticar que existía un desorden en el mundo que podía ser resuelto mediante la vida en comunidad. Así, se llega a la conclusión de que las comunas se presentaron como una alternativa a la familia en un contexto en que esta era considerada como la institución social que desempeñaba la función más decisiva a la hora de determinar la conducta de los individuos. Por ello, los comuneros se mostraban convencidos de que, encontrando una alternativa a la familia, serían capaces de iniciar la construcción de unas nuevas relaciones sociales más armoniosas y acordes a la naturaleza humana.
Versenystratégiák a szállodaiparban — A magyar szállodaipari vállalkozások gyakorlata
Authors: Pajrok Andor
Published: March 2023

A turizmust gazdasági jelentősége a nemzetközi tendenciával összhangban Magyarországon is stratégiai szintre emelte az elmúlt években. Ennek ellenére kevés releváns információ áll rendelkezésre a hazai szálláshely-szolgáltatók stratégiai szemléletéről, követett versenystratégiáikról a gyorsan változó, bizonytalan üzleti környezethez való alkalmazkodásukról. A hiánypótló tanulmány összefoglalja az ágazat nemzetközi szakirodalmának a témához kapcsolódó megállapításait, a beazonosított jó gyakorlatokat, valamint a versenystratégiák alkalmazhatóságát. Empirikus kutatási eredményekre alapozva feltárja a magyar szállodaipar stratégiai szemléletét, a követett versenystratégiákat, valamint azok alkalmazását befolyásoló tényezőket. A magyar szállodaipar szereplői körében végzett feltáró kérdőíves kutatás a szolgáltatás minőségi dimenziójával kiegészített porteri versenytipológiák alkalmazásának gyakorlatára irányult. A válaszok statisztikai elemzése alapján igazolt a hazai gyakorlatban a különböző versenystratégiák együttes alkalmazása, illetve az, hogy statisztikailag szignifikáns kapcsolat áll fenn a megkülönböztetésre alapozott versenystratégia és a szálloda minőségi osztályba sorolása, valamint a minőségre alapozott stratégia és a szálloda székhelye között. A szakértői interjúk pedig megerősítették a járványhelyzet időszakában a minőségre alapozott versenystratégia jelentőségét.
On the topology of problems and their solutions
Authors: Agama Theophilus
Published: March 2023

In this paper, we study the topology ofproblems and their solution spaces developed introduced in our first paper \cite{agama2022theory}. We introduce and study the notion of separability and quotient problem and solution spaces. This notions will form a basic underpinning for further studies on this topic.
The Influence of IT Outsourcing on Organisational Success/Failure & Innovation
Authors: Murphy Liam
Published: March 2023

This study explores the research area of IT outsourcing (ITO), investigating how it mayinfluence organisational success/failure and innovation.
IMPACT OF METEOROLOGICAL FACTORS ON THE PROPAGATION OF COVID-19 IN JOHOR
Authors: Vallasamy Suriya Kumareswaran
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The global distribution and severity of COVID-19 have been markedly heterogeneous. Seasonality has been indicated as a contribution to regional variability, although the relationship between weather and COVID-19 is still unclear, and outside environments have been the focus of investigation. Even though laboratory and epidemiological research have proven the impact of ambient temperature on the transmission and survival of coronaviruses, nothing is known about the weather's impact on the spread of COVID-19.

Objectives

This study investigates the effects and association of temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed on the rising of COVID-19 cases in Johor, Malaysia

Methodology

From January 2021 to December 2022, daily COVID-19 case data was gathered from the COVIDNOW Malaysian website dedicated to covid-19, while satellite climate data for the same period was taken from the official website of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). A descriptive analysis was undertaken to characterise all the important variables across the study period. Correlation analysis was conducted to investigate the linear relationship between covid-19 cases and climate factors.

Results

The result shows there is positive correlation between COVID-19 cases towards rainfall and temperature (p value <0.01). Also, the results show there is no correlation between COVID-19 cases towards windspeed and humidity.

Conclusion

The results indicate that climate characteristics are useful for minimising the uncertainty surrounding the severity of future COVID-19 transmission. These correlations between climate conditions and covid-19 cases can be used to generate early warning for any future epidemic, allowing for the adoption of stringent regulations, the preparation of healthcare service plans, and the targeting of vaccination coverage.
Autoimmune Enteropathy: A Rare Cause of Chronic Diarrhea in an Adult Patient
Authors: Carvalho Ana C. , Pinho Juliana , Cancela Eugénia , Silva Américo
Published: March 2023

Autoimmune enteropathy is a rare cause of malabsorption usually associated with circulating autoantibodies and predisposition to autoimmune disorders. The diagnosis is based on the following criteria: chronic diarrhea (>6 months), malabsorption, specific histological findings, anti-enterocyte and anti-goblet cell antibodies, and exclusion of similar disorders. We report a case of a 73-year-old woman presenting with severe chronic diarrhea, weight loss, and electrolyte abnormalities. Endoscopy revealed duodenal villous atrophy extending to proximal jejunum, and duodenal biopsies revealed villous blunting, cryptitis with apoptosis, and scattered intraepithelial lymphocytes. Therapeutic management included immunosuppressive treatment with corticosteroids, achieving clinical remission.
Decolonizing Canadian Water Policy
Authors: McKibbin Corey
Published: March 2023

Meaningful lessons about decolonizing water infrastructure (social, economic and political) can be learned if we scrutinize existing governance principles such as the ones provided by the
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)
Principles on Water Governance (OECD, 2021). Instead of using
only Western frameworks to think about policy within Indigenous spheres of water, sanitation and hygiene (WaSH), the Government of Canada can look to Indigenous ways of knowing to compliment their understanding of how to govern areas of WaSH efficiently. In this paper, the term
Indigenous encompasses First Nations, Inuit and Métis populations (Hanrahan & Hudson, 2014; Blaser, 2012). I present this paper as
a step out of many toward decolonizing water governance in Canada. I hope to have shown in this paper that it is necessary to make space for other voices in water governance. By highlighting the dangers in the Case Studies, three lessons are apparent in this paper: 1. There needs to be an addition of Indigenous Two-Eyed Seeing in water governance; 2. Canada must strengthen its nation-to-nation praxis with Indigenous communities; and 3. There needs to be a creation of space in WaSH that fosters Indigenous voices. This is necessary such that there can be equal participation in policy conversations to mitigate existing problems and explore new possibilities.
Depression and Depression Literacy among Adolescent School Students
Authors:   Jordan University of science and technology, Al-Shannaq Yasmin , Darwish Sajeda , Mohammad Anas A. , Jaradat Diana
Published: March 2023

Background: Adolescent mental health is a major public health issue. It is important to educate adolescents and their families about mental illnesses. However, very little attention has been paid to mental health literacy among individuals, particularly among adolescents. Purpose: The aim of this study is to assess depression and depression literacy levels, as well as their correlations among a sample of school students. Methods: Anonymous self-report questionnaires were used to conduct a cross-sectional study. This was to gather data from three public schools in the northern region of Jordan. Results: The study sample included a total of 225 participants, with 55.6% being female and the mean age being 15.09 (SD = 1.89). About 45% of these students were found to have depression symptoms and 27.6% of them had moderate and severe levels of depression. The participants were also found to have very low levels of depression literacy. A significant positive correlation was found between depression symptoms and depression literacy. The predictors of depression symptoms were gender, grade point average and monthly family income. The predictors of depression literacy were fathers’ educational level, physical exercise and family history of mental health problems. Conclusion: The findings highlight the urgent need for improving knowledge about mental illness among adolescents. Further research and strong support are highly recommended, specifically regarding issues that affect adolescents’ mental health. Implications for Nursing: The discussion covers several intervention implications and suggestions aiming to maintain adolescents’ psychological well-being. For example, nursing leaders should develop and implement programs for assessing depression, providing counselling and enhancing mental health literacy among adolescent school students. Keywords: Depression, Depression literacy, Mental health, Adolescents, School students.
Effect of Stream River and Tidal on the Suspended Sediment Concentration of Kuala Langsa Estuary, Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Irwansyah Irwansyah , Isma Faiz , Ismida Yulina , Isma Muhammad Fauzan , Sufahani Suliadi Firdaus , Akbar Helmy
Published: March 2023

Kuala Langsa estuary is a semi-closed zone where there is an exchange of two water masses between river and tidal of the Malacca Strait. The exchange of those two water masses occurs as a physical result of fluctuating estuaries. This caused Suspended Sediment Concentration (SSC) continue to increase as the estuary is the final distribution point for sediment brought from upstream by erosion in the Langsa River. This sediment contributes to the silting of Langsa estuary. This is caused the KRI dr. Soeharso Hospital to be unable to dock at the Kuala Langsa Port during the 66th Surya Bhaskara Jaya Navy Operations 2017. It’s necessary to study estuary physical conditions, which include bathymetry, currents, temperature, salinity, and concentrations of floating sediment that occur as a result of the tides and river discharges. This research used quantitative and qualitative exploratory methods, analyzed a direct correlation between the measurement results, roughness coeficient, and sediment transport rate used relevant empirical equations (Duboy's, Einstein's, Rottner, Chang, Simons, and Richardson, and Lane and Kalinske aquations). This research found that the Langsa estuary is 16 km with a semidiurnal tidal type. In the Langsa estuary, it was discovered that  the highest sediment rate was at the mouth of the estuary is 10.700.739,71 ton/day-1 and the physical model of Muara Langsa has a good correlation to the results of measurements-model indicate value of CC width = 0.959 and tide CC= 0.421, This study provides initial information for conducting hydrodynamic and morphological models at the mouth of estuary.
New record of Halymenia malaysiana (Halymeniaceae, Rhodophyta) from Viet Nam, and its genetic diversity in the western Pacific
Authors: Nguyen Xuan-Vy , Nguyen-Nhat Nhu-Thuy , Nguyen Xuan-Thuy , Nguyen Trung-Hieu , Truong Si Hai Trinh , Dao Viet-Ha , Do Anh-Duy , McDermid Karla J.
Published: March 2023

Halymenia malaysiana, one of the foliose species of Halymenia was first reported from Malaysia and showed some morphological features that distinguish it from sister species, such as Halymenia dilatata, Halymenia maculata, and Halymenia porphyraeformis. In this study, Halymenia samples were collected from nine locations along the coast of Viet Nam (8°–17°N) in the South China Sea and Gulf of Thailand. Morphological observations indicated that almost all samples were Halymenia malaysiana which was supported by two genetic markers, rbcL and COI-5P. However, the presence of Halymenia dilatata in Viet Nam is still unresolved. Based on rbcL, the common haplotype in Viet Nam was R1 as in Malaysia and three new haplotypes were added to H. malaysiana for Southeast Asia. Genetic differences were evident between the Sunda Shelf (Viet Nam and Malaysia) populations and those in Philippine waters. We suggest that a combination of morphology and molecular data would be useful to accurately assess the species diversity and phylogeography of Halymenia in Viet Nam and Southeast Asia region.
A semiotic-discursive insight into short videos on memory and peace
Authors: Pardo Abril Neyla Graciela
Published: March 2023

This paper explores how short web videos uploaded to the Truth Commission’s TikTok official profile are formulated. The Truth Commission (Comisión de la Verdad) is a Colombian state entity created to clarify patterns and causes of Colombia’s internal armed conflict and recognize victims’ and society’s right to the truth. The Commission’s aim is to avoid repetition of violence through an ample and plural participation process to construct a stable and lasting peace. To explore the debate and the importance of recognizing crimes against humanity committed in the context of the armed conflict in Colombia – specifically, sexual violations against ethnically and territorially defined women – two videos were selected under thematic, territorial, ethnic, and gender-unity criteria from among 60 short videos published on TikTok between February 2020 and March 2021. The nuclear axis of the videos corresponds to the semiotic theory at the core of the multimodal and multimedia critical discourse analysis (MMCDA). The digital discourse is multimodal, as its design, production, and distribution process draws from various and coexisting sign systems: visual-graphic (image-color), visual-verbal-graphic, verbal-sound, and sound-musical. These devices are proposed as “memory devices” that allow viewers to witness human rights violation events in the context of Colombia’s current armed conflict.
Interaction of RTX toxins with the host cell plasma membrane
Authors: Chacko Feby M. , Schmitt Lutz
Published: March 2023

Repeats in ToXins (RTX) protein family is a group of exoproteins secreted by Type 1 secretion system (T1SS) of several Gram-negative bacteria. The term RTX is derived from the characteristic nonapeptide sequence (GGxGxDxUx) present at the C-terminus of the protein. This RTX domain binds to calcium ions in the extracellular medium after being secreted out of the bacterial cells, and this facilitates folding of the entire protein. The secreted protein then binds to the host cell membrane and forms pores via a complex pathway, which eventually leads to the cell lysis. In this review, we summarize two different pathways in which RTX toxins interact with host cell membrane and discuss the possible reasons for specific and unspecific activity of RTX toxins to different types of host cells.
The High Frequency Firm Survey “Bundesbank Online Panel – Firms”
Authors: Boddin Dominik , Köhler Mona
Published: March 2023

The Bundesbank Online Panel – Firms (“BOP-F”) is a dataset with responses from a high frequency firm-level survey of the same name. The Bundesbank has conducted the survey since June 2020, and since July 2021 the survey has been carried out at a monthly frequency. Every month, around 3000 firms from all economic sectors, regions and size classes are surveyed. The survey consists of recurring core questions about the economic situation of firms and their expectations and special questions that usually differ from quarter to quarter. The latter often relate to current topics, for instance, climate change, digitalization, Covid-19. The data can be accessed for research and especially the possibility to combine it with other administrative Bundesbank data makes it particularly valuable for research. The objective of this paper is to describe the methodology of the data collection, the content data as well as the data’s research potential.
Enhanced heat resistance and expansion ratio of biodegradable poly (lactic acid)/poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) composite foams via synergistic effect of nucleating agent and chain extension
Authors: Huang Feng , Liu Wei , Lai Jun , Wu Jianming , Huang An , Geng Lihong , Peng Xiangfang
Published: March 2023

Environmentally friendly foams have been studied extensively to handle the plastic pollution caused by disposable tableware. Herein, biodegradable poly (lactic acid) (PLA) – poly (butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) composites were first fabricated by melt blending, in which a reactive chain extender (ADR) was incorporated to enhance the interfacial compatibility and melt strength, a nucleating agent (TMC) was applied to improve the crystallinity. Subsequently, the foaming behavior of the composites was investigated via supercritical CO2 foaming. Specifically, a spherulite and shish-kebab-like nanoporous structure was observed from PLA and PLA/TMC foams, respectively, when the soaking temperature was far below melting temperature. With an increase of foaming temperature, the unmelted completely crystals served as physical cross-linking points, also contributing to a high melt strength. Combined with chain extension reaction of ADR, the PLA–PBAT/ADR/TMC foams showed the largest cell diameter and expansion ratio, which were 19 μm and 8.9, respectively. Furthermore, the heat resistance of PLA–PBAT/ADR/TMC foams was also significantly improved, owing to the high crystallinity induced by TMC. Consequently, the composite foams with superior heat resistance and toughness were obtained to broaden its application as biodegradable disposable tableware for hot food.
On testing for bubbles during hyperinflations
Authors: Morita Rubens , Psaradakis Zacharias , Sola Martin , Yunis Patricio
Published: March 2023

We consider testing for the presence of rational bubbles during hyperinflations via an analysis of the non-stationarity properties of relevant observable time series. The test procedure is based on a Markov regime-switching model with independent stochastic changes in its intercept, error variance and autoregressive coefficients. This model formulation allow us to disentangle fundamentals-driven changes in the drift, bubble-driven explosiveness, and volatility changes that may be fundamentals-driven and/or bubble-driven. The testing methodology is illustrated by applying it to data from hyperinflations in Argentina, Brazil, Germany and Poland.
Crystal structure of three chloridocuprate(I, II) complexes with methylene blue (MB) counterions
Authors: Sabirov Vahobjon Kh. , Kadirova Mukarram X.
Published: March 2023

Three chloridocuprate complexes with methylene blue counterions of the chemical compositions [MB]+
2[CuCl4]2− · H2O (1), [MB]+
2[CuCl4]2− (2) and [(MB)+(CuCl2)−]3 (3) (where [MB]+ – methylthioninium cation; methylene blue cation) have been prepared by solvent-assisted mechanochemical synthesis. The reactions were carried out by mixing the copper(II) chloride dihydrate, CuCl2⋅2H2O, and methylene blue pentahydrate, [MB]+Cl− · 5H2O by grinding in an agate mortar with the addition of DMF as a solvent. The crystal structures of the compounds have been determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The content of an asymmetric unit of the crystals consists of: (1) a tetrahedral [CuCl4]2− anion, two [MB]+ cations and one water molecule of crystallization; (2) a tetrahedral [CuCl4]2− anion and two [MB]+ cations; (3) trimeric [(MB)+(CuCl2)−]3 molecules with the Cu atoms coordinated by a nitrogen atom of the phenothiazine ring and two chlorine ions in a trigonal planar geometry with the copper atom in the oxidation state of +1.
Immune Infiltration in Atherosclerosis is Mediated by Cuproptosis-Associated Ferroptosis Genes
Authors: Zhang Boyu , Li Shuhan , Liu Hanbing , Wang Dongze , Gao Ang , Wang Yihan , Gao Zhiyuan , Hou Tongyu , Xu Qian
Published: March 2023

Aims: In this study, we aimed to identify cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes in the atherosclerosis microarray of the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and to explore hub gene-mediated immune infiltration in atherosclerosis.

Background: Immune infiltration plays a crucial role in atherosclerosis development. Ferroptosis is a mode of cell death caused by the iron-dependent accumulation of lipid peroxides. Cuproptosis is a recently discovered type of programmed cell death. No previous studies have examined the mechanism of cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis gene regulation in immune infiltration in atherosclerosis.

Methods: We searched the qualified atherosclerosis gene microarray in the GEO database, integrated it with ferroptosis and cuproptosis genes, and calculated the correlation coefficients. We then obtained the cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis gene matrix and screened differentially expressed genes. Subsequently, we performed Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses and protein–protein interaction network analysis of differentially expressed genes. We also screened hub genes according to the Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) algorithm. We conducted enrichment analysis of hub genes to explore their functions and predict related microRNAs (P<0.05). We also used the single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) algorithm to analyze the relationships between hub genes and immune infiltration, and used immune-associated hub genes to construct a risk model. Finally, we used the drug prediction results and molecular docking technology to explore potential therapeutic drugs targeting the hub genes.

Results: Seventy-eight cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes were found to be involved in the cellular response to oxidative and chemical stress, and to be enriched in multiple pathways, including ferroptosis, glutathione metabolism, and atherosclerosis. Ten hub genes were identified with the MCC algorithm; according to the ssGSEA algorithm, these genes were closely associated with immune infiltration, thus indicating that cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes may participate in atherosclerosis by mediating immune infiltration. The receiver operating characteristic curve indicated that the model had a good ability to predict atherosclerosis risk. The results of drug prediction (adjusted P<0.001) and molecular docking showed that glutathione may be a potential therapeutic drug that targets the hub genes.

Conclusion: Cuproptosis-associated ferroptosis genes are associated with immune infiltration in atherosclerosis.
Specific associations between plasma biomarkers and postmortem amyloid plaque and tau tangle loads
Authors: Salvadó Gemma , Ossenkoppele Rik , Ashton Nicholas J , Beach Thomas G , Serrano Geidy E , Reiman Eric M , Zetterberg Henrik , Mattsson‐Carlgren Niklas , Janelidze Shorena , Blennow Kaj , Hansson Oskar
Published: March 2023

Several promising plasma biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease have been recently developed, but their neuropathological correlates have not yet been fully determined. To investigate and compare independent associations between multiple plasma biomarkers (p‐tau181, p‐tau217, p‐tau231, Aβ42/40, GFAP, and NfL) and neuropathologic measures of amyloid and tau, we included 105 participants from the Arizona Study of Aging and Neurodegenerative Disorders (AZSAND) with antemortem plasma samples and a postmortem neuropathological exam, 48 of whom had longitudinal p‐tau217 and p‐tau181. When simultaneously including plaque and tangle loads, the Aβ42/40 ratio and p‐tau231 were only associated with plaques (ρAβ42/40[95%CI] = −0.53[−0.65, −0.35], ρp‐tau231[95%CI] = 0.28[0.10, 0.43]), GFAP was only associated with tangles (ρGFAP[95%CI] = 0.39[0.17, 0.57]), and p‐tau217 and p‐tau181 were associated with both plaques (ρp‐tau217[95%CI] = 0.40[0.21, 0.56], ρp‐tau181[95%CI] = 0.36[0.15, 0.50]) and tangles (ρp‐tau217[95%CI] = 0.52[0.34, 0.66]; ρp‐tau181[95%CI] = 0.36[0.17, 0.52]). A model combining p‐tau217 and the Aβ42/40 ratio showed the highest accuracy for predicting the presence of Alzheimer's disease neuropathological change (ADNC, AUC[95%CI] = 0.89[0.82, 0.96]) and plaque load (R2 = 0.55), while p‐tau217 alone was optimal for predicting tangle load (R2 = 0.45). Our results suggest that high‐performing assays of plasma p‐tau217 and Aβ42/40 might be an optimal combination to assess Alzheimer's‐related pathology in vivo.
Age-standardized incidence, mortality rate, and trend changes of thyroid cancer in the Balearic Islands during the 2000–2020 period: a population-based study
Authors: Tofé Santiago , Argüelles Iñaki , Forteza Ana , Álvarez Cristina , Repetto Alessandra , Masmiquel Luis , Rodríguez Irene , Losada Eladio , Sukunza Nuria , Cabrer María , Sifontes Mildred , del Mar del Barrio María , Barceló Antonia , Tofé Álvaro , Pereg Vicente
Published: March 2023

Objective

Global thyroid cancer (TC) incidence is growing worldwide, but great heterogenicity exists among published studies, and thus, population-specific epidemiological studies are needed to adequate health resources and evaluate the impact of overdiagnosis.

Methods

We conducted a Public Health System database retrospective review of TC incident cases from 2000 to 2020 in the Balearic Islands region and evaluated age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age at diagnosis, gender distribution, tumor size and histological subtype, mortality rate (MR), and cause of death. Estimated annual percent changes (EAPCs) were also evaluated and data from the 2000–2009 period were compared to the 2010–2020 period when neck ultrasound (US) was routinely performed by clinicians at Endocrinology Departments.

Results

A total of 1387 incident cases of TC were detected. Overall, ASIR (×105) was 5.01 with a 7.82% increment in EAPC. A significant increase in the 2010–2020 period was seen for ASIR (6.99 vs 2.82, P < 0.001) and age at diagnosis (52.11 vs 47.32, P < 0.001) compared to the 2000–2009 period. A reduction in tumor size (2.00 vs 2.78 cm, P < 0.001) and a 6.31% increase in micropapillary TC (P < 0.05) were also seen. Disease-specific MR remained stable at 0.21 (×105). The mean age at diagnosis for all mortality groups was older than survivors (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

The incidence of TC has grown in the 2000–2020 period in the Balearic Islands, but MR has not changed. Beyond other factors, a significant contribution of overdiagnosis to this increased incidence is likely due to changes in the routine management of thyroid nodular disease and increased availability of neck US.
Whole-genome DNA methylation analysis of the sperm in relation to bull fertility
Authors: Zhang Ying , Bruna de Lima Camila , Labrecque Rémi , Sirard Marc-André
Published: March 2023

In brief

Bull fertility is an important economic trait, this study identified some DNA methylation biomarkers that are associated with bull fertility.

Subfertile bulls may cause huge economic losses in dairy production since their semen could be used to inseminate thousands of cows by artificial insemination. This study adopted whole-genome enzymatic methyl sequencing and aimed to identify candidate DNA methylation markers in bovine sperm that correlate with bull fertility. Twelve bulls were selected (high bull fertility = 6; low bull fertility = 6) based on the industry’s internally used Bull Fertility Index. After sequencing, a total of 450 CpG had a DNA methylation difference higher than 20% (q < 0.01) had been screened. The 16 most significant differentially methylated regions (DMRs) were identified using a 10% methylation difference cut-off (q < 5.88 × 10−16). Interestingly, most of the differentially methylated cytosines (DMCs) and DMRs were distributed on the X and Y chromosomes, demonstrating that the sex chromosomes play essential roles in bull fertility. Additionally, the functional classification showed that the beta-defensin family, zinc finger protein family, and olfactory and taste receptors could be clustered. Moreover, the enriched G protein-coupled receptors such as neurotransmitter receptors, taste receptors, olfactory receptors, and ion channels indicated that the acrosome reaction and capacitation processes are pivotal for bull fertility. In conclusion, this study identified the sperm-derived bull fertility-associated DMRs and DMCs at the whole genome level, which could complement and integrate into the existing genetic evaluation methods, increasing our decisive capacity to select good bulls and explain bull fertility better in the future.
“Dismantling the structures and sites that create unequal access to food:”
Authors: Taylor Paul , Power Elaine
Published: March 2023

In the summer of 2019, Elaine Power, Professor in the School of Kinesiology & Health Studies at Queen’s University, interviewed Paul Taylor for a research project on community food programs. Paul, a Black man, is the Executive Director of FoodShare Toronto and an anti-poverty activist. In 2020, Paul was named one of Toronto Life’s 50 Most Influential Torontonians, was awarded the Top 40 under 40 in Canada, and voted Best Activist by the readers of Now Magazine.
In this interview, Paul explains his philosophy of leadership, his understanding of food justice, and the ways that non-profit organizations can contribute more meaningfully to food justice. Paul understands food insecurity as a lack of income, an issue disproportionately affecting Black, Indigenous and people of colour. Therefore, the best solution to food insecurity is a decent-paying job. Non-profits concerned about food justice must pay living wages, and close the gap between the highest and lowest paid employees. They must also listen to their clients and take their advice. Paul also explains how his background growing up poor and hungry in Toronto was his best education for his current position at FoodShare Toronto.
Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths: 2015–2020
Authors: Shapiro-Mendoza Carrie K. , Woodworth Kate R. , Cottengim Carri R. , Erck Lambert Alexa B. , Harvey Elizabeth M. , Monsour Michael , Parks Sharyn E. , Barfield Wanda D.
Published: March 2023

OBJECTIVE

Although the US infant mortality rate reached a record low in 2020, the sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) rate increased from 2019. To understand if the increase was related to changing death certification practices or the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, we examined sudden unexpected infant death (SUID) rates as a group, by cause, and by race and ethnicity.

METHODS

We estimated SUID rates during 2015 to 2020 using US period-linked birth and death data. SUID included SIDS, unknown cause, and accidental suffocation and strangulation in bed. We examined changes in rates from 2019 to 2020 and assessed linear trends during prepandemic (2015–2019) using weighted least squares regression. We also assessed race and ethnicity trends and quantified COVID-19–related SUID.

RESULTS

Although the SIDS rate increased significantly from 2019 to 2020 (P < .001), the overall SUID rate did not (P = .24). The increased SIDS rate followed a declining linear trend in SIDS during 2015 to 2019 (P < .001). Other SUID causes did not change significantly. Our race and ethnicity analysis showed SUID rates increased significantly for non-Hispanic Black infants from 2019 to 2020, widening the disparities between these two groups during 2017 to 2019. In 2020, <10 of the 3328 SUID had a COVID-19 code.

CONCLUSIONS

Diagnositic shifting likely explained the increased SIDS rate in 2020. Why the SUID rate increased for non-Hispanic Black infants is unknown, but warrants continued monitoring. Interventions are needed to address persistent racial and ethnic disparities in SUID.
Las representaciones femeninas, sus diseños corporales y su simbología en el occidente mesoamericano
Authors:   Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia Museo Regional de Guadalajara, Cancino Daniel Ruiz
Published: March 2023

The female ceramic figurines realized in the west Mesoamerica territory, have an important body painted decoration which represent singly or combined geometric designs like spirals, straight, zigzag and wavy lines, circles, concentric circles, triangles, crosses and points are observed like decoration. This order designs transcends by the location in breasts, pelvic and belly area, in addition to this, most of them allude to the sexed body. It is thus the symbolic codes present in the sculptures can be interpreted from the relationship with thoughts of life, where societies are intimately linked with the cycles of nature, with the universe distribution of vertical and horizontal way, which refer archetypal concepts in Mesoamerica. Therefore it is important to consider these representations as possible social and cosmological allegories conceptions of culture that developed in the late formative and half Classic period (BC 200 – AD 400/600), during the tradition of the Tumbas de Tiro in territory comprised by the present states of Jalisco, Colima, Nayarit, Michoacan and the south central of Sinaloa.
El murciélago se hizo eterno entre colores y piedras preciosas
Authors:   Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla, Arias Ulises Sebastián Serrano , Villalpando Beatriz Adriana Gaytán ,   Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla
Published: March 2023

Mesoamerican religions in the pre-Hispanic period perceived the animal and plant world as inseparably connected with the divine world, and, thus, having decisive influence on human existence. Animals could play different roles in them: from deity personification, through assuming a part of divine nature, to acting as messengers communicating divine and human reality. Due to the environment in which they live, bats became one of the leading figures in Indian culture. Since caves, being typical habitat of these mammals, were regarded as gateways for communication with the supernatural world, while bats, freely moving between the unexplored darkness of the caves (identified with the underworld) and the outside world (the world of living people), naturally became personification of divinity and/or messengers of gods. Moreover, as shown in the presented iconographic sources, bats aroused both curiosity, admiration and fear due to their ability of echolocation, feeding on blood and also due to their dual nature: although they were mammals, they could fly like birds. This article aims at analysing perception of bats in various Mesoamerican cultures over the centuries: from the Olmec civilization through the Maya, Zapotec to the Mexica.
Microbiome and gut-brain axis affecting stress behavior
Authors: Banik Shreya , Nath Pinku Chandran , Roy Rupak
Published: March 2023

In context to the neurological system, the function and evolution of host physiology as influenced by intestinal microbiota are of great interest. It has long been understood how crucial the gut-brain axis is in controlling reactions to stress. More recently, the microbiota has become
a crucial component in this gut-brain regulation, particularly under stressful circumstances brought on by actual or perceived homeostatic strain. The gut microbiota seems to have an impact on the growth of emotional behavior, stress- and pain-modulation systems, and brain neurotransmitter
systems, according to studies employing mice raised in a germ-free environment. Current evidence suggests that multiple mechanisms, including neural pathways and immune signaling, may be involved in gut microbiota–to–brain signaling and that the brain can in turn alter microbial
composition and behavior via the autonomic nervous system. The gut microbiota has been implicated in a variety of stress-related conditions including anxiety, depression, and irritable bowel syndrome, although this is largely based on animal studies or correlative analysis in patient populations.
Additional research in humans is sorely needed to reveal the relative impact and causal contribution of the microbiome to stress-related disorders. We will briefly explore the crucial aspect of this axis in this review, as well as the methodological issues that have been raised in previous
attempts to define normal microbiota and chronicle its temporal development.
Cancer: a brief discussion on risks causing cancer and their relation with today's lifestyle: A Report
Authors: Chatterjee Sampreeti
Published: March 2023

In this ever-developing and constantly changing world, growth is a constant factor. Be it growth in the technological field or be it growth in the number of diseases uprising every passing day, growth remains a common factor to all. Cancer is one such disease that has become a participant
of this growth rapidly in today's world. It has become a matter of concern and an intertwined factor in every household.
Lifestyle changes to lower cancer risk: A Report
Authors: Ray Rajarshi
Published: March 2023

World Cancer Day is celebrated all over the world on 4th February. The main motive of this day is to spread an awareness regarding cancer and its prevention by practising various healthy lifestyle practices and maintaining a proper and healthy diet. Thus, following these
healthy lifestyle can make our overall biological functioning work properly as it is supposed to and hence can maintain our immune system and overall physiological conditions to sustain in every situation. On this day we hereby discuss over certain topics on prevention of cancer so as to treat
it when it is at its weakest phase. Cancer is mostly incurable and there are a very few to none techniques. Henceforth we need to prevent cancer by implementing these healthy lifestyle practices even before it is detected or gets worse as the world known saying goes by Prevention is better
than cure.