bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring EFL Student Motivation and Attitudes Toward Student-Centered Pedagogy and Assessment Practices: The EFL Classroom Instruction Efficacy in Context
Authors: Nazim Mohd , Alzubi Ali Abbas Falah , Fakih Abdul-Hafeed
Published: November 2023

Classroom instructions are greatly influenced by student motivation and attitudes toward the activities employed during the teaching and learning processes, and pedagogy and assessment practices draw no exception. The study aimed to explore learners’ motivation and attitudes toward teachers’ employment of the practices focused on student-centered pedagogy and assessment in the EFL classroom. In addition, it correlated the participants’ responses with their gender and specialization. The descriptive-survey approach was used to achieve the study objectives. The study tools, a questionnaire, and a semi-structured interview were applied to a stratified sample of 200 participants. The results showed that the study sample had high motivation and attitudes toward teachers’ employment of pedagogy and assessment practices focused on students. Besides, the variables of gender and specialization did not influence the respondents’ answers to the questionnaire. Finally, the analysis of the participants’ answers in the semi-structured interview showed that half of the interviewees approved of their experience of student-centered pedagogy and assessment practices in terms of engagement, advantages, and less pressure.
Modeling of the absorption spectrum of Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin in the red area
Authors: Chernyshev Dmitriy N. , Klochkova Viktoria S. , Lelekov Alexander S.
Published: November 2023

Mathematical decomposition of the absorption spectrum of the culture of the red microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum Bohlin was carried out in the spectral range from 550 to 750 nm. The culture spectra were recorded on a spectrophotometer with an integrating sphere. Using the literature data, mathematical models of the absorption spectra in the red area of the following pigments were compiled: chlorophyll a and chlorophyll с. The mathematical model of each pigment represented the sum of Gaussian curves. The resulting equations were taken as a basis for modeling the native spectrum. A general model of the absorption spectrum of culture in the region of 550–750 nm has been compiled, consisting of the sum of individual pigments. Using the model obtained in practice, it is possible to determine the concentrations of chlorophyll a and c directly from the absorption spectrum of the culture.
Spatial distribution of phytoplankton in the Serezha River
(Nizhny Novgorod Region)
Authors: Startseva Natalia A. , Yakimov Basil N. , Lavrova Tatyana V. , Gavrilko Dmitry E. , Zhiharev Vyacheslav S. , Kudrin Ivan A.
Published: November 2023

The investigation presents the results of studies of plankton in the area of the middle course of the riverSerezha in 2019. The floristic diversity of phytoplankton was characterized, its abundance and biomass were estimated, and the change in the morpho-functional groups of phytoplankton along the river was shown. The influence of some physical factors on the development of planktonic algae is considered. The water quality of this section of the watercourse was assessed by phytoplankton biomass, as well as using the community index and the Pantle-Bucksaprobity index.
Morphology of Coscinodiscus radiatus Ehrenberg (Bacillariophyta) from Kara-Bogaz-Gol Bay (Caspian Sea)
Authors: Bulatov Stanislav A.
Published: November 2023

The study of morphology of Coscinodiscus radiatus from Kara-Bogaz-Gol Bay (the Caspian Sea) revealed that among the investigated parameters, the valve diameter was the most variable (variation coefficient CV = 21.2%) at a salinity of 50 to 262‰. The number of areolae in 10 µm on the valve mantle was the least variable characters (CV = 9.6%). The variability of the aforementioned quantitative traits, in comparison with the literature data was revealed. An increase in the valve diameter of C. radiatus at a salinity of 60‰ was noted and a decrease – at a salinity of 216–262‰. Calculation of correlation coefficient between the analyzed morphometric characters revealed a stable positive correlation between the valve diameter and the number of areolae in 10 μm on the valve. Mass development in the Bay conditions allows to characterize C. radiatus not only as a marine euryhaline species occurring in desalinated sea areas, but also as a halophile capable of tolerating wide fluctuations in salinity.
Borsa İstanbul’da yeniden dengeleme yöntemi ile portföy yönetimi
Authors: UNAL Serkan
Published: November 2023

Bu makalede BIST100 endeksi ve dövizden oluşan portföylerde uygulanan yeniden değerleme yönteminin geçerliliği analiz edilmiştir. Araştırmada 1997-2022 yılları arasını kapsayan aylık frekanstaki veri setinden faydalanılmıştır. Araştırmada borsa ağırlığı %10’dan %100’e kadar değişen 10 farklı portföy birleşimi ve dengeleme oran aralığı %1’den %15’e kadar değişen 15 farklı dengeleme limiti kullanılmıştır. Araştırmada yeniden dengeleme işlemi belli bir sapma limitine ya da takvime bağlı olarak üç farklı yöntemle uygulanmıştır. Araştırmadan elde edilen sonuçlara göre borsa ağırlığının %60-%70, dolar ağırlığının ise %30-%40 aralığında olduğu portföylerde en yüksek Sharpe oranlarını ve yıllık bileşik getiriyi elde etmek mümkün olmuştur. Araştırmada yeniden dengeleme stratejisinin uygulandığı portföylerin performansı, borsada %100 oranında al-tut şekliyle uygulanan stratejiden gerek getiri gerek standart sapma değerleri gerekse yaşanmış olan en büyük düşüş oranları açısından daha yüksektir. Farklı yeniden değerleme stratejilerinin verimliliği kıyaslandığında ise belli bir takvime bağlı olarak gerçekleştirilen yeniden dengeleme işleminin yüksek yıllık bileşik reel getiri ve düşük standart sapma değerleri olarak ön plana çıktığı görülmektedir.
Sürdürülebilir Hisse Senedi Piyasalarının Dinamik Koşullu Korelasyon (DCC) Modeli ile İncelenmesi ve Petrol Fiyatlarının bu İlişkiye Etkisi
Authors: DİNC CAVLAK Ozge
Published: November 2023

Mevcut çalışma, ülkeler arası sürdürülebilir hisse senedi piyasaları arasındaki dinamik ilişkileri incelemeyi amaçlamakta; aynı zamanda enerji piyasaları ile sürdürülebilir hisse senedi performansları arasındaki ilişki dinamiklerini ortaya koymayı hedeflemektedir. İlk olarak, ABD ve Türkiye piyasaları için sürdürülebilir hisse senedi getirileri arasındaki etkileşim, zamana bağlı değişen korelasyonu ve volatiliteyi dikkate alan dinamik koşullu korelasyon modeli ile incelenmektedir. Ardından, petrol fiyatlarının, elde edilen dinamik koşullu korelasyonlar üzerindeki etkileri Granger nedensellik analizi kullanılarak ortaya konmaktadır. Araştırmanın sonuçları, ABD ve Türkiye sürdürülebilir hisse senedi piyasaları arasındaki dinamik koşullu korelasyon modelinin stabil olduğunu ortaya koymakta; bir önceki dönemdeki şokun bugünkü dinamiklere etkisinin ve dinamik korelasyon serisindeki geciken dinamiklerin bugünkü dinamiklere olan etkisinin anlamlı olduğunu göstermektedir. Bunun yanı sıra, petrol fiyatlarının, ABD ve Türkiye sürdürülebilir hisse senedi piyasaları arasındaki dinamik koşullu korelasyonlar üzerinde anlamlı bir nedensel etkisi olduğunu göstermektedir. Son olarak, Etki-Tepki analizi sonucu, petrol fiyatlarında meydana gelen bir şoka karşılık, piyasalar arasındaki dinamik korelasyonun şok ile ters yönde bir tepki verdiği görülmekte; bu da ABD ve Türkiye sürdürülebilir hisse senedi piyasalarının ayrıştığına işaret etmektedir.
Automatic segmentation of mandibular canal using transformer based neural networks
Authors: Lv Jinxuan , Zhang Lang , Xu Jiajie , Li Wang , Li Gen , Zhou Hengyu
Published: November 2023

Accurate 3D localization of the mandibular canal is crucial for the success of digitally-assisted dental surgeries. Damage to the mandibular canal may result in severe consequences for the patient, including acute pain, numbness, or even facial paralysis. As such, the development of a fast, stable, and highly precise method for mandibular canal segmentation is paramount for enhancing the success rate of dental surgical procedures. Nonetheless, the task of mandibular canal segmentation is fraught with challenges, including a severe imbalance between positive and negative samples and indistinct boundaries, which often compromise the completeness of existing segmentation methods. To surmount these challenges, we propose an innovative, fully automated segmentation approach for the mandibular canal. Our methodology employs a Transformer architecture in conjunction with cl-Dice loss to ensure that the model concentrates on the connectivity of the mandibular canal. Additionally, we introduce a pixel-level feature fusion technique to bolster the model’s sensitivity to fine-grained details of the canal structure. To tackle the issue of sample imbalance and vague boundaries, we implement a strategy founded on mandibular foramen localization to isolate the maximally connected domain of the mandibular canal. Furthermore, a contrast enhancement technique is employed for pre-processing the raw data. We also adopt a Deep Label Fusion strategy for pre-training on synthetic datasets, which substantially elevates the model’s performance. Empirical evaluations on a publicly accessible mandibular canal dataset reveal superior performance metrics: a Dice score of 0.844, click score of 0.961, IoU of 0.731, and HD95 of 2.947 mm. These results not only validate the efficacy of our approach but also establish its state-of-the-art performance on the public mandibular canal dataset.
Identification of runner fatigue stages based on inertial sensors and deep learning
Authors: Chang Pengfei , Wang Cenyi , Chen Yiyan , Wang Guodong , Lu Aming
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Running is one of the most popular sports in the world, but it also increases the risk of injury. The purpose of this study was to establish a modeling approach for IMU-based subdivided action pattern evaluation and to investigate the classification performance of different deep models for predicting running fatigue.

Methods: Nineteen healthy male runners were recruited for this study, and the raw time series data were recorded during the pre-fatigue, mid-fatigue, and post-fatigue states during running to construct a running fatigue dataset based on multiple IMUs. In addition to the IMU time series data, each participant’s training level was monitored as an indicator of their level of physical fatigue.

Results: The dataset was examined using single-layer LSTM (S_LSTM), CNN, dual-layer LSTM (D_LSTM), single-layer LSTM plus attention model (LSTM + Attention), CNN, and LSTM hybrid model (LSTM + CNN) to classify running fatigue and fatigue levels.

Discussion: Based on this dataset, this study proposes a deep learning model with constant length interception of the raw IMU data as input. The use of deep learning models can achieve good classification results for runner fatigue recognition. Both CNN and LSTM can effectively complete the classification of fatigue IMU data, the attention mechanism can effectively improve the processing efficiency of LSTM on the raw IMU data, and the hybrid model of CNN and LSTM is superior to the independent model, which can better extract the features of raw IMU data for fatigue classification. This study will provide some reference for many future action pattern studies based on deep learning.
A cultural atlas of vocal variation: yellow-naped amazons exhibit contact call dialects throughout their Mesoamerican range
Authors: Genes Molly K. , Araya-Salas Marcelo , Dahlin Christine R. , Wright Timothy F.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Vocal dialects are a taxonomically widespread phenomenon which are typically only studied in a portion of a species’ range. Thus, it is difficult to infer whether a geographic pattern of vocal dialects observed in one part of a species’ range are typical across the range or whether local conditions influence their presence or absence. We examined the yellow-naped amazon, Amazona auropalliata, a parrot species with remarkable vocal learning capabilities. Although this species’ native range spans across Mesoamerica, only Costa Rican populations have been evaluated long-term. Previous studies have shown that these populations have geographically and temporally stable vocal dialect patterns. Without data on populations outside of Costa Rica, it is impossible to know whether vocal dialects are present in northern range populations, and whether they show similar geographic structure to southern range populations.

Introduction

We recorded yellow-naped amazon contact calls at 47 different sites across the species’ range between 2016 and 2019 and evaluated them for the presence of dialects. We visually classified 14 contact call types based on spectrographic similarity and used spectrographic cross-correlation, principal component analysis, and Mantel-based spatial autocorrelations to assess acoustic similarity; we also evaluated the robustness of our findings using simulated data.

Results and Discussion

The results from our study show that the vocal patterns previously seen in Costa Rica are also present in northern populations, supporting our hypothesis that this species has vocal dialects throughout its Mesoamerican range. Call types were regionally specific (e.g., vocal dialects occurred) across the range, and no call types were repeated across multiple regions. We did, however, observe distinctive structural characteristics that are found in multiple call types, suggesting that different call types stem from a common origin. Alternatively, similarity in the acoustic features of call types may also be a result of physiological and anatomical features that are common to all members of the species. Vocal dialects in this species are likely maintained through a tendency toward philopatry and matching call types to enhance social identification.
Dynamics of mitochondrial membranes under photo-oxidative stress with high spatiotemporal resolution
Authors: Loriette Vincent , Fragola Alexandra , Kruglik Sergei G. , Sridhar Susmita , Hubert Antoine , Orieux François , Sepulveda Eduardo , Sureau Franck , Bonneau Stephanie
Published: November 2023

In our study, we harnessed an original Enhanced Speed Structured Illumination Microscopy (Fast-SIM) imaging setup to explore the dynamics of mitochondrial and inner membrane ultrastructure under specific photo-oxidation stress induced by Chlorin-e6 and light irradiation. Notably, our Fast-SIM system allowed us to observe and quantify a distinct remodeling and shortening of the mitochondrial structure after 60–80 s of irradiation. These changes were accompanied by fusion events of adjacent inner membrane cristae and global swelling of the organelle. Preceding these alterations, a larger sequence was characterized by heightened dynamics within the mitochondrial network, featuring events such as mitochondrial fission, rapid formation of tubular prolongations, and fluctuations in cristae structure. Our findings provide compelling evidence that, among enhanced-resolution microscopy techniques, Fast-SIM emerges as the most suitable approach for non-invasive dynamic studies of mitochondrial structure in living cells. For the first time, this approach allows quantitative and qualitative characterization of successive steps in the photo-induced oxidation process with sufficient spatial and temporal resolution.
Validity of a Patient Communication Scale
Authors: Quinn Joann Farrell , Khalid Nikita , Albright Glenn
Published: November 2023

Background

Since the 1960s, standardized patients (SPs) have been used to prepare medical students for clinical work for these patients provide a controlled domain for learners. Specifically, these type of formative experiences provide a low stakes environment for practice and feedback, thereby increasing learner comfort in communicating with patients. Communication is the cornerstone of patient care, and it is well-established as a core clinical competency for medical students by numerous medical boards, associations, and accreditation agencies. While methods for communication training are of paramount importance, no validated scales assess the impact of these trainings on patient-provider communication where measures are based on attitudinal constructs that predict behavior, such as self-efficacy and preparedness. Thus, the aim of this study is to validity of a Patient Communication Scale (PCS) using an online virtual role-play training simulation.

Method

To validate the scale, 117 medical students were administered the PCS survey before and after completing a professional development virtual role-play simulation where they practiced motivational interviewing skills, talking to a patient who insists on antibiotics for a viral infection.

Results

A confirmatory factor analysis supported the two-factor model based on the subscales of preparedness and self-efficacy. Factor loadings showed all items correlated highly with theoretical constructs (r ≥ 0.902, p < 0.001). The PCS had high internal consistency (α = 0.916). Because there is a lack of scales that have been used to assess medical student as well as medical practitioner patient communication capabilities, specifically their preparedness and self-efficacy, criterion-related validity was not assessed. Convergent, content and construct validity were established.

Conclusion

The Patient Communication Scale appears to be a valid tool in measuring the impact of online patient-provider communication skills training and holds promise for assessing other delivery methods.
The 18-year risk of cancer, angioedema, insomnia, depression, and erectile dysfunction in association with antihypertensive drugs: post-trial analyses from ALLHAT–Medicare linked data
Authors: Du Xianglin L. , Martinez Journey , Yamal Jose-Miguel , Simpson Lara M. , Davis Barry R.
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the 18-year risk of cancer, angioedema, insomnia, depression, and erectile dysfunction in association with antihypertensive drug use.

Methods

This is a post-trial passive follow-up study of Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering Treatment to Prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) participants between 1994 and 1998 that was conducted by linking their follow-up data with Medicare claims data until 2017 of subjects who were free of outcomes at baseline on 1 January 1999. The main outcomes were the occurrence of cancer (among n = 17,332), angioedema (among n = 17,340), insomnia (among n = 17,340), depression (among n = 17,330), and erectile dysfunction (among n = 7,444 men) over 18 years of follow-up.

Results

The 18-year cumulative incidence rate of cancer other than non-melanoma skin cancer from Medicare inpatient claims was 23.9% for chlorthalidone, 23.4% for amlodipine, and 25.3% for lisinopril. There were no statistically significant differences in the 18-year risk of cancer, depression, and erectile dysfunction among the three drugs based on the adjusted hazard ratios. The adjusted 18-year risk of angioedema was elevated in those receiving lisinopril than in those receiving amlodipine (hazard ratio: 1.63, 95% CI: 1.14–2.33) or in those receiving chlorthalidone (1.33, 1.00–1.79), whereas the adjusted 18-year risk of insomnia was statistically significantly decreased in those receiving lisinopril than in those receiving amlodipine (0.90, 0.81–1.00).

Conclusions

The 18-year risk of angioedema was significantly higher in patients receiving lisinopril than in those receiving amlodipine or chlorthalidone; the risk of insomnia was significantly lower in patients receiving lisinopril than in those receiving amlodipine; and the risk of cancer, depression, and erectile dysfunction (in men) was not statistically significantly different among the three drug groups.
Relationship between quadriceps muscle computed tomography measurement and motor function, muscle mass, and sarcopenia diagnosis
Authors: Mizuno Takafumi , Matsui Yasumoto , Tomida Makiko , Suzuki Yasuo , Ishizuka Shinya , Watanabe Tsuyoshi , Takemura Marie , Nishita Yukiko , Tange Chikako , Shimokata Hiroshi , Imagama Shiro , Otsuka Rei , Arai Hidenori
Published: November 2023

Background

The quadriceps muscle is one of the human body’s largest and most clinically important muscles and is evaluated using mid-thigh computed tomography (CT); however, its relationship with motor function and sarcopenia remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the relationship between the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the quadriceps muscle, CT attenuation value (CTV), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry muscle mass measurements, and muscle strength and motor function to evaluate the relationship between muscle mass loss and motor function decline, determine the diagnostic ability for sarcopenia, and confirm the usefulness of quadriceps muscle CT evaluation.

Methods

A total of 472 middle-aged and older community dwellers (254 men and 218 women) aged ≥40 years (mean age: 62.3 years) were included in this study. The quantity and quality of the quadriceps muscle were assessed using CSA and CTV (CSA×CTV) as a composite index multiplied by quality and quantity. Age-adjusted partial correlations by sex with eight motor functions (knee extension muscle strength, power, normal walking speed, fast walking speed, grip strength, sit-up ability, balance ability, and reaction time) were evaluated, including correction methods for height, weight, and body mass index (BMI). Further, the accuracy of sarcopenia diagnosis was evaluated using appendicular muscle mass with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry measurements, grip strength, and walking speed as the gold standard, and receiver operating characteristic curves were plotted to evaluate diagnostic performance.

Results

In men, CSA and CSA×CTV were significantly associated with seven of the eight motor functions (p<0.05), excluding only balance ability. BMI-corrected CSA was significantly correlated with all eight motor functions in men and women (p<0.05). In the diagnosis of sarcopenia based on skeletal muscle index, CSA (area under the curve (AUC) 0.935) and CSA×CTV (AUC 0.936) and their correction by height (CSA/height (AUC 0.917) and CSA×CTV/height (AUC 0.920)) were highly accurate and useful for diagnosis in men but moderately accurate in women (CSA (AUC 0.809), CSA×CTV (AUC 0.824), CSA/height (AUC 0.799), CSA×CTV/height (AUC 0.814)).

Conclusion

The present results showed that a single CT image of the quadriceps muscle at the mid-thigh is useful for diagnosing sarcopenic changes, such as loss of muscle mass, muscle weakness, and muscle function.
Association of HMGCR inhibition with rheumatoid arthritis: a Mendelian randomization and colocalization study
Authors: Ma Li , Du Yufei , Ma Chao , Liu Ming
Published: November 2023

Objective

The objective of this study was to investigate the association between hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) inhibition and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using drug-target Mendelian randomization (MR) and genetic colocalization analyses.

Methods

Two sets of genetic instruments were employed to proxy HMGCR inhibitors: expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) of target genes from the eQTLGen Consortium and genetic variants associated with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels with HMGCR locus from open genome-wide association studies (GWAS). Positive control analyses were conducted on type 2 diabetes and coronary heart disease, and multiple sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

Genetically proxied expression of eQTL was associated with a lower risk of RA (OR=0.996, 95% CI =0.992–0.999, p= 0.032). Similarly, hydroxymethylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR)-mediated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol was negatively associated with risk of RA (OR=0.995, 95% CI =0.991–0.998, p= 0.007) in the inverse variance weighted (IVW) method. Colocalization analysis suggested a 74.6% posterior probability of sharing a causal variant within the SNPs locus (PH4 = 74.6%). A causal relationship also existed between HMGCR-mediated LDL and RA risk factors. The results were also confirmed by multiple sensitivity analyses. The results in positive control were consistent with the previous study.

Conclusion

Our study suggested that HMGCR inhibition was associated with an increased risk of RA while also highlighting an increased risk of current smoking and obesity. These findings contribute to a growing body of evidence regarding the adverse effects of HMGCR inhibition on RA risk, calling for further research on alternative approaches using HMGCR inhibitors in RA management.
Maternal thyroid peroxidase antibody positivity and its association with incidence of low birth weight in infants
Authors: Chen Liangmiao , Lin Dini , Lin Zhenzhen , Ye Enling , Sun Mengli , Lu Xuemian
Published: November 2023

Background

Autoimmune thyroid disease is a prevalent condition affecting women of reproductive age, leading to thyroid dysfunction and impacting pregnancy outcomes. While the critical role of thyroid hormone in pregnancy outcomes is well-established, the potential association between positive anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and adverse pregnancy outcomes in pregnant women with normal thyroid function remains unclear.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the relationship between maternal TPOAb positivity and adverse pregnancy outcomes with normal thyroid function.

Methods

We collected baseline information from pregnant women who visited our hospital between February 2009 and June 2012. Blood samples were taken to measure thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), TPOAb, and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (TGAb). The incidence of adverse pregnancy outcomes was compared between TPOAb-positive and TPOAb-negative groups among participants with normal thyroid function.

Results

A total of 7,046 pregnant women with normal thyroid function were included, comprising 6,700 with negative TPOAb and 346 with positive TPOAb. The TPOAb-positive group exhibited a higher age (26.0 vs. 27.0 years, p = 0.02) and greater serum TSH levels (1.72 vs. 1.94 mIU/L, p = 0.029), while the gestational week of blood collection was lower (31.9 vs. 26.5 weeks, p = 0.001). Univariate analysis revealed a higher incidence of low birth weight (LBW) in offspring of TPOAb-positive women compared to the TPOAb-negative group (3.5% vs. 1.9%, p = 0.035). After adjusting for confounding factors such as age, gestational week of blood collection, menstrual history, education level, gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, TGAb, TSH, and FT4, TPOAb positivity emerged as an independent risk factor for LBW infants (OR: 2.317, 95% CI: 1.057–5.076, p = 0.036), while other adverse pregnancy outcomes did not show a significant correlation with TPOAb positivity.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that TPOAb-positive pregnant women with normal thyroid function are more likely to deliver LBW infants. Regular monitoring of TPOAb-positive pregnancies and timely interventions throughout all stages of pregnancy are crucial.
The effect of synergistic pollution and carbon reduction in the digital economy: Quasi-experimental evidence from Chinese cities
Authors: Yin Bibo , Kuang Ping , Deng Xinhui
Published: November 2023

Introduction: The digital economy plays a crucial role in achieving synergistic reduction in air pollutants and carbon emissions.

Methods: A super-efficiency slack-based model with undesirable outputs was applied to systematically calculate the efficiency of synergistic air pollutants and carbon emissions governance (ESACG). This study used the difference-in-differences (DID), propensity score matching-DID, quantile DID methods and generalized random forest model to empirically test the impact and its heterogeneity of the digital economy on the ESACG, with the establishment of the National Big Data Comprehensive Pilot Zone as a quasi-natural experiment.

Results: 1) The digital economy significantly improved the ESACG by optimizing industrial structure in source management, improving energy utilization efficiency in process control, and promoting green technological innovation in end blocking. The digital literacy of talent and digital financial support strengthened its enhancing effect, but the digital infrastructure was insignificant. 2) The digital economy significantly enhanced the ESACG in the cross-regional and regional demonstration zones but inhibited it in the pioneering zones. Its impact on the ESACG in big data infrastructure-integrated development zones was insignificant. 3) Between the 25th and 90th quantiles, there was an asymmetric inverted U-shaped influence of the digital economy on the ESACG, with no discernible impact at the 10th quantile. In cities with better economic development and technological innovation, the contribution of the digital economy to the ESACG was more significant.

Discussion: It is necessary to continuously advance the construction of existing pilot zones, steadily expand their coverage, and differentiate between harnessing the experiences of reducing pollution and carbon emissions to formulate strategies for synergistic regional governance.
Single cell transcriptome analyses reveal the roles of B cells in fructose-induced hypertension
Authors: Kim Cheong-Wun , Joo Sung Yong , Kim Boa , Kim Jee Young , Jang Sungmin , Tzeng Shiang-Jong , Lee Sang Jin , Kim Myunghoo , Kim Inkyeom
Published: November 2023

Rationale

While the immune system plays a crucial role in the development of hypertension, the specific contributions of distinct immune cell populations remain incompletely understood. The emergence of single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) technology enables us to analyze the transcriptomes of individual immune cells and to assess the significance of each immune cell type in hypertension development.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the hypothesis that B cells play a crucial role in the development of fructose-induced hypertension.

Methods and Results

Eight-week-old Dahl salt-sensitive (SS) male rats were divided into two groups and given either tap water (TW) or a 20% fructose solution (HFS) for 4 weeks. Systolic blood pressure was measured using the tail-cuff method. ScRNA-seq analysis was performed on lamina propria cells (LPs) and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) obtained from SS rats subjected to either TW or HFS. The HFS treatment induced hypertension in the SS rats. The analysis revealed 27 clusters in LPs and 28 clusters in PBMCs, allowing for the identification and characterization of various immune cell types within each cluster. Specifically, B cells and follicular helper T (Tfh) cells were prominent in LPs, while B cells and M1 macrophages dominated PBMCs in the HFS group. Moreover, the HFS treatment triggered an increase in the number of B cells in both LPs and PBMCs, accompanied by activation of the interferon pathway.

Conclusions

The significant involvement of B cells in intestinal and PBMC responses indicates their pivotal contribution to the development of hypertension. This finding suggests that targeting B cells could be a potential strategy to mitigate high blood pressure in fructose-induced hypertension. Moreover, the simultaneous increase in follicular B cells and Tfh cells in LPs, along with the upregulation of interferon pathway genes in B cells, underscores a potential autoimmune factor contributing to the pathogenesis of fructose-induced hypertension in the intestine.
Case Report: Effectiveness of secukinumab in systemic sclerosis with early skin progress after autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation and end-stage kidney disease
Authors: Strunz Patrick-Pascal , Labinsky Hannah , Nagler Lea-Kristin , Portegys Jan , Froehlich Matthias , Gernert Michael , Schmalzing Marc
Published: November 2023

Autologous hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (aHSCT) represents an effective treatment option in patients with severe forms of systemic sclerosis (SSc) by resetting the immune system. Nevertheless, secondary autoimmune disorders and progressive disease after aHSCT might necessitate renewed immunosuppressive treatments. This is particularly challenging when organ dysfunction, i.e., end-stage kidney failure, is present. In this case report, we present the unique case of a 43-year-old female patient with rapidly progressive diffuse systemic sclerosis who underwent aHSCT despite end-stage renal failure as consequence of SSc-renal crisis. Therefore, conditioning chemotherapy was performed with melphalan instead of cyclophosphamide with no occurrence of severe adverse events during the aplastic period and thereafter. After aHSCT, early disease progression of the skin occurred and was successfully treated with secukinumab. Thereby, to the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of successful aHSCT in a SSc-patient with end-stage kidney failure and also the first successful use of an IL-17 inhibitor to treat early disease progression after aHSCT.
Structural basis for T cell recognition of cancer neoantigens and implications for predicting neoepitope immunogenicity
Authors: Mariuzza Roy A. , Wu Daichao , Pierce Brian G.
Published: November 2023

Adoptive cell therapy (ACT) with tumor-specific T cells has been shown to mediate durable cancer regression. Tumor-specific T cells are also the basis of other therapies, notably cancer vaccines. The main target of tumor-specific T cells are neoantigens resulting from mutations in self-antigens over the course of malignant transformation. The detection of neoantigens presents a major challenge to T cells because of their high structural similarity to self-antigens, and the need to avoid autoimmunity. How different a neoantigen must be from its wild-type parent for it to induce a T cell response is poorly understood. Here we review recent structural and biophysical studies of T cell receptor (TCR) recognition of shared cancer neoantigens derived from oncogenes, including p53R175H, KRASG12D, KRASG12V, HHATp8F, and PIK3CAH1047L. These studies have revealed that, in some cases, the oncogenic mutation improves antigen presentation by strengthening peptide–MHC binding. In other cases, the mutation is detected by direct interactions with TCR, or by energetically driven or other indirect strategies not requiring direct TCR contacts with the mutation. We also review antibodies designed to recognize peptide–MHC on cell surfaces (TCR-mimic antibodies) as an alternative to TCRs for targeting cancer neoantigens. Finally, we review recent computational advances in this area, including efforts to predict neoepitope immunogenicity and how these efforts may be advanced by structural information on peptide–MHC binding and peptide–MHC recognition by TCRs.
Use of shear thickening fluids in sport protection applications: a review
Authors: Parisi Mariafederica , La Fauci Giuseppe , Pugno Nicola M. , Colonna Martino
Published: November 2023

Nowadays, safety devices (e.g., helmets, safety barriers, body protectors, etc.) producers are developing and testing innovative smart materials to reach the ever-growing request for higher performances arising from international standards and markets. Shear thickening fluids (STFs) have attracted special attention because of their non-linear mechanical response and high-energy dissipation effectiveness. In particular, within STF, shear thickening gels (STGs), a class of high-molecular-weight and crosslinked polymers have exhibited great stability and shear-dependent properties ascribable to the presence of dynamic boron-oxygen crosslinks within the polymeric structure. Hence, it is essential to investigate the rheological behavior of these system for their application in new flexible and impact protection devices. This review focuses on the description of the peculiar advantages of using STFs with regards to traditional materials in sport protective equipment. Moreover, the preparation and use of STFs for impact protection including all the scientific productions and the conspicuous patent literature on this field - from dilatant suspension until the latest STGs–have been reviewed in detail. Commercial helmets and body protectors containing STFs have also been reviewed and reported. Finally, the use of STGs not embedded in foams in sport helmet is also discussed and a final part on future perspective of STFs for sport protection is provided.
Eye tracking technology in medical practice: a perspective on its diverse applications
Authors: Tahri Sqalli Mohammed , Aslonov Begali , Gafurov Mukhammadjon , Mukhammadiev Nurmukhammad , Sqalli Houssaini Yahya
Published: November 2023

Eye tracking technology has emerged as a valuable tool in the field of medicine, offering a wide range of applications across various disciplines. This perspective article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the diverse applications of eye tracking technology in medical practice. By summarizing the latest research findings, this article explores the potential of eye tracking technology in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, assessing and improving medical performance, as well as improving rehabilitation outcomes. Additionally, it highlights the role of eye tracking in neurology, cardiology, pathology, surgery, as well as rehabilitation, offering objective measures for various medical conditions. Furthermore, the article discusses the utility of eye tracking in autism spectrum disorders, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and human-computer interaction in medical simulations and training. Ultimately, this perspective article underscores the transformative impact of eye tracking technology on medical practice and suggests future directions for its continued development and integration.
Gut microbiota and common gastrointestinal diseases: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomized study
Authors: Qiu Binxu , Shen Zixiong , Yang Dongliang , Qin Xinxin , Ren Wenyong , Wang Quan
Published: November 2023

Background

Several recent studies have shown an association between gut microbiota and gastrointestinal diseases. However, the causal relationship between gut microbiota and gastrointestinal disorders is unclear.

Methods

We assessed causal relationships between gut microbiota and eight common gastrointestinal diseases using Mendelian randomization (MR) analyses. IVW results were considered primary results. Cochrane’s Q and MR-Egger tests were used to test for heterogeneity and pleiotropy. Leave-one-out was used to test the stability of the MR results, and Bonferroni correction was used to test the strength of the causal relationship between exposure and outcome.

Results

MR analyses of 196 gut microbiota and eight common gastrointestinal disease phenotypes showed 62 flora and common gastrointestinal diseases with potential causal relationships. Among these potential causal relationships, after the Bonferroni-corrected test, significant causal relationships remained between Genus Oxalobacter and CD (OR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.13–1.48, p = 2.5 × 10–4, q = 4.20 × 10–4), and between Family Clostridiaceae1 and IBS (OR = 0.9967, 95% CI: 0.9944–0.9991, p = 1.3 × 10–3, q = 1.56 × 10–3). Cochrane’s Q-test showed no significant heterogeneity among the various single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). In addition, no significant level of pleiotropy was found according to the MR-Egger.

Conclusion

This study provides new insights into the mechanisms of gut microbiota-mediated gastrointestinal disorders and some guidance for targeting specific gut microbiota for treating gastrointestinal disorders.
Designing a polyvalent vaccine targeting multiple strains of varicella zoster virus using integrated bioinformatics approaches
Authors: Amin Rani Nurul , Moin Abu Tayab , Patil Rajesh , Barketullah Robin Tanjin , Zubair Talha , Nawal Nafisa , Sami Md. Razwan Sardar , Morshed Md Masud , Zhai Jingbo , Xue Mengzhou , Hossain Mohabbat , Zheng Chunfu , Abul Manchur Mohammed , Islam Nazneen Naher
Published: November 2023

The Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) presents a global health challenge due to its dual manifestations of chickenpox and shingles. Despite vaccination efforts, incomplete coverage, and waning immunity lead to recurrent infections, especially in aging and immunocompromised individuals. Existing vaccines prevent chickenpox but can trigger the reactivation of shingles. To address these limitations, we propose a polyvalent multiepitope subunit vaccine targeting key envelope glycoproteins of VZV. Through bioinformatics approaches, we selected six glycoproteins that are crucial for viral infection. Epitope mapping led to the identification of cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL), helper T lymphocyte (HTL), and B cell linear (LBL) epitopes. Incorporating strong immunostimulants, we designed two vaccine constructs, demonstrating high antigenicity, solubility, stability, and compatibility with Toll-like receptors (TLRs). Molecular docking and dynamics simulations underscored the stability and affinity of the vaccine constructs with TLRs. These findings lay the foundation for a comprehensive solution to VZV infections, addressing the challenges of incomplete immunity and shingles reactivation. By employing advanced immunoinformatics and dynamics strategies, we have developed a promising polyvalent multiepitope subunit vaccine candidate, poised to enhance protection against VZV and its associated diseases. Further validation through in vivo studies is crucial to confirm the effectiveness and potential of the vaccine to curb the spread of VZV. This innovative approach not only contributes to VZV control but also offers insights into tailored vaccine design strategies against complex viral pathogens.
Amyloid fibril formation kinetics of low-pH denatured bovine PI3K-SH3 monitored by three different NMR techniques
Authors: Gardon Luis , Becker Nina , Rähse Nick , Hölbling Christoph , Apostolidis Athina , Schulz Celina M. , Bochinsky Kevin , Gremer Lothar , Heise Henrike , Lakomek Nils-Alexander
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Misfolding of amyloidogenic proteins is a molecular hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases in humans. A detailed understanding of the underlying molecular mechanisms is mandatory for developing innovative therapeutic approaches. The bovine PI3K-SH3 domain has been a model system for aggregation and fibril formation.

Methods: We monitored the fibril formation kinetics of low pH-denatured recombinantly expressed [U-13C, 15N] labeled bovine PI3K-SH3 by a combination of solution NMR, high-resolution magic angle spinning (HR-MAS) NMR and solid-state NMR spectra. Solution NMR offers the highest sensitivity and, therefore, allows for the recording of two-dimensional NMR spectra with residue-specific resolution for individual time points of the time series. However, it can only follow the decay of the aggregating monomeric species. In solution NMR, aggregation occurs under quiescent experimental conditions. Solid-state NMR has lower sensitivity and allows only for the recording of one-dimensional spectra during the time series. Conversely, solid-state NMR is the only technique to detect disappearing monomers and aggregated species in the same sample by alternatingly recoding scalar coupling and dipolar coupling (CP)-based spectra. HR-MAS NMR is used here as a hybrid method bridging solution and solid-state NMR. In solid-state NMR and HR-MAS NMR the sample is agitated due to magic angle spinning.

Results: Good agreement of the decay rate constants of monomeric SH3, measured by the three different NMR methods, is observed. Moderate MAS up to 8 kHz seems to influence the aggregation kinetics of seeded fibril formation only slightly. Therefore, under sufficient seeding (1% seeds used here), quiescent conditions (solution NMR), and agitated conditions deliver similar results, arguing against primary nucleation induced by MAS as a major contributor. Using solid-state NMR, we find that the amount of disappeared monomer corresponds approximately to the amount of aggregated species under the applied experimental conditions (250 µM PI3K-SH3, pH 2.5, 298 K, 1% seeds) and within the experimental error range. Data can be fitted by simple mono-exponential conversion kinetics, with lifetimes τ in the 14–38 h range. Atomic force microscopy confirms that fibrils substantially grew in length during the aggregation experiment. This argues for fibril elongation as the dominant growth mechanism in fibril mass (followed by the CP-based solid-state NMR signal).

Conclusion: We suggest a combined approach employing both solution NMR and solid-state NMR, back-to-back, on two aliquots of the same sample under seeding conditions as an additional approach to follow monomer depletion and growth of fibril mass simultaneously. Atomic force microscopy images confirm fibril elongation as a major contributor to the increase in fibril mass.
Association between inflammatory bowel disease and risk of stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies
Authors: Fan Jin-Shan , Wang Meng , Chen Ni , Sun Bai-chao , Zhang Qi-Bing , Li Yong , Huang Ming-Jie
Published: November 2023

Background/objectives

Recently, four meta-analyses have explored the association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and the risk of stroke. These studies have demonstrated that people with IBD may be at an increased risk of stroke. However, some limitations such as high heterogeneity and the lack of uniformity in the types of research, especially the reuse of some sample sizes, cannot be neglected. These factors reduce the credibility of their research conclusions. Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to explore this possible association.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched from inception to 30 June 2023. A random effects model with the generic inverse variance method was used in this meta-analysis. The Review Manager software was used to obtain all relative risks (RRs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Publication bias was tested, and sensitivity and subgroup analyses were conducted to explore possible heterogeneities.

Results

This meta-analysis included 12 cohort studies (involving 4,495,055 individuals). Meta-analysis of these data has shown that IBD was associated with an increased risk of stroke (RR = 1.19, 95%CI:1.14-1.24, p < 0.00001). Our results were stable and robust in subgroup and sensitivity analyses.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that IBD is associated with an increased risk of stroke. To reduce the incidence of stroke, patients with IBD are encouraged to undergo stroke risk assessments, especially for young female patients; assessing the risk of ischemic stroke is of particular importance. Prospective studies considering stroke subtypes, IBD severity and treatments, regions, and other confounding factors are needed to further explore the nature of each association.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD42022373656.