bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Legionella longbeachae effector protein RavZ inhibits autophagy and regulates phagosome ubiquitination during infection
Authors: Shi Yunjia , Liu Hongtao , Ma Kelong , Luo Zhao-Qing , Qiu Jiazhang
Published: February 2023

Legionellaorganisms are ubiquitous environmental bacteria that are responsible for human Legionnaires’ disease, a fatal form of severe pneumonia. These bacteria replicate intracellularly in a wide spectrum of host cells within a distinct compartment termed theLegionella-containingvacuole (LCV). Effector proteins translocated by the Dot/Icm apparatus extensively modulate host cellular functions to aid in the biogenesis of the LCV and intracellular proliferation. RavZ is anL.pneumophilaeffector that functions as a cysteine protease to hydrolyze lipidated LC3, thereby compromising the host autophagic response to bacterial infection. In this study, we characterized the RavZ (RavZLP) ortholog inL.longbeachae(RavZLLO), the second leading cause ofLegionellainfections in the world. RavZLLOand RavZLPshare approximately 60% sequence identity and a conserved His-Asp-Cys catalytic triad. RavZLLOis recognized by the Dot/Icm systems of bothL.pneumophilaandL.longbeachae. Upon translocation into the host, it suppresses autophagy signaling in cells challenged with both species, indicating the functional redundancy of RavZLLOand RavZLP. Additionally, ectopic expression of RavZLLObut not RavZLPin mammalian cells reduces the levels of cellular polyubiquitinated and polyneddylated proteins. Consistent with this process, RavZLLOregulates the accumulation of polyubiquitinated species on the LCV duringL.longbeachaeinfection.
The development of the national tuberculosis research priority in Indonesia: A comprehensive mixed-method approach
Authors: Lestari Trisasi , Fuady Ahmad , Yani Finny Fitry , Putra I Wayan Gede Artawan Eka , Pradipta Ivan Surya , Chaidir Lidya , Handayani Diah , Fitriangga Agus , Loprang Maria Regina , Pambudi Imran , Ruslami Rovina , Probandari Ari
Published: February 2023

Ranked second in global tuberculosis (TB) incidence, Indonesia has developed a National Strategy for TB Prevention and Control 2020–2024 to accelerate the TB elimination program. Research and innovation are key pillars to support the program and need to be prioritised. This study aimed to develop updated national TB research priorities in Indonesia. This study was a mixed-methods study consisting of an open survey, a published literature survey, and Delphi survey. The open survey invited all related TB stakeholders to answer (a) the main barriers of the TB program and (b) the need for studies to support TB elimination. The published literature survey retrieved scientific articles published in national and international journals between 2015 and 2020 to identify gaps between published research and the current national strategy for TB control. The online survey and literature survey informed a panel of TB experts in a two-phase Delphi Survey to select the top 10 priority research topics. We identified 322 articles and analysed 1143 open survey responses. Through two-phases Delphi surveys, top ten research categories were listed: early TB detection; diagnosis and treatment of DR-TB; contact investigation; case detection and treatment of child TB; TB preventive therapy; government policy; laboratory for drug-sensitive- and drug-resistant-TB diagnosis; treatment adherence; diagnostic tool development; and community empowerment. This study also found the gap between stakeholders’ interests and the importance of translating research into policy and practice. TB research priorities have been identified through the involvement of various stakeholders. The combination of an online survey, a published literature survey, and a Delphi survey was a rigorous methodology and was fit to build a systematic consensus about the priority of TB research.
Prosocial behavior in students with intellectual disabilities: Individual level predictors and the role of the classroom peer context
Authors: Wagemaker Eline , Hofmann Verena , Müller Christoph M.
Published: February 2023

Prosocial behavior at school, such as helping and sharing, contributes to positive individual development, peer relations, and classroom climate. Students with intellectual disabilities (ID) may have difficulty to demonstrate prosocial behavior, but little is known about the levels of prosocial behavior and its predictors in this population. This study aims to describe the prosocial behavior of students with ID attending special needs schools and related individual (i.e., age, sex, and general functioning) and classroom level (i.e., classmates’ mean prosocial behavior) predictors. School staff members assessed prosocial behavior of 1022 students with ID (69.5% boys;Mage= 11.34 years,SD= 3.73, range: 4–19 years) at the beginning and the end of a schoolyear. We found that students with ID on average demonstrated moderate levels of prosocial behavior, this was lower compared to norms of typically developing students. Correlations within each timepoint proved that prosocial behavior was more present in older students, girls, and students with higher general functioning. Using a longitudinal multilevel model, we found that, prosocial behavior increased more over the schoolyear in older students and in students with higher general functioning. Classmates’ mean levels of prosocial behavior did not affect later individual prosocial behavior. We conclude that prosocial behavior in students with ID depends on several individual characteristics, but less on the levels of prosocial behaviors in their special needs classroom peer context.
Detection of Enterobius vermicularis in archived formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) appendectomy blocks: It’s potential to compare genetic variations based on mitochondrial DNA (cox1) gene
Authors: Haghshenas Maryam , Koosha Mona , Latifi Alireza , Kazemirad Elham , Dehghan Arash , Nikmanesh Bahram , Mowlavi Gholamreza
Published: February 2023

Acute appendicitis represents one of the most common causes of emergency abdominal surgery worldwide. Meanwhile, Enterobius vermicularis has been suggested as one of the probable causes of appendicitis. In this study, the morphological characteristics of the remnant pinworms and pathologic changes were explored in old-archived FFPE tissues of appendectomies. Moreover, we provide the first molecular identification, genetic, and haplotype variation of this nematode from the old-archived FFPE tissue section of appendectomy using the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (cox1) gene. Seventeen FFPE appendectomies with E. vermicularis infection, stored over 12–22 years, were collected from two different geographical areas of Iran. In the histopathological examination, tissue changes were observed in thirteen cases (76.4%) and inflammation in four blocks (23.5%). After DNA extraction, the cox1 gene was amplified in twelve (70.6%) cases using the nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Phylogenetic analysis and a median-joining network of 78 available cox1 sequences of E. vermicularis revealed 59 haplotypes. We identified five haplotypes that fell into type B. All Haplotypes are novel except for two haplotypes, Hap32 and Hap37, identical to E. vermicularis sequences from Iran, Greece, and Germany. The ranges of diversity distance and haplotype diversity within the isolates were 0–1.9% and HD:0.643–0.667, subsequently. Overall, the absence of inflammation or even tissue changes in some sections can suggest the possible non-inflammatory role of E. vermicularis in appendicitis. Although FFPE material suffers from PCR inhibition, we could successfully use nested PCR to characterize E. vermicularis in old-archived appendectomy blocks and suggest this method as a complementary diagnosis technique in pathology. While the predominant type was B in the Middle East and Europe, further studies on a larger sample size from different geographical regions could probably confirm the results obtained in the present study.
Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) disease diagnostic error in low-resource health care: Observations from a hospital-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Lukama Lufunda , Aldous Colleen , Michelo Charles , Kalinda Chester
Published: February 2023

Although the global burden of ear, nose and throat (ENT) diseases is high, data relating to ENT disease epidemiology and diagnostic error in resource-limited settings remain scarce. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional review of ENT patients’ clinical records at a resource-limited tertiary hospital. We determined the diagnostic accuracy and appropriateness of patient referrals for ENT specialist care using descriptive statistics. Cohens kappa coefficient (κ) was calculated to determine the diagnostic agreement between non-ENT clinicians and the ENT specialist, and logistic regression applied to establish the likelihood of patient misdiagnosis by non-ENT clinicians. Of the 1543 patients studied [age 0–87 years, mean age 25(21) years (mean(SD)], non-ENT clinicians misdiagnosed 67.4% and inappropriately referred 50.4%. Compared to those aged 0–5 years, patients aged 51–87 years were 1.77 (95%CI: 1.03–3.04) fold more likely to have a referral misdiagnosis for specialist care. Patients with ear (aOR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.14–2.33) and those with sinonasal diseases (aOR: 1.80; 95% CI: 1.14–2.45) had greater likelihood of referral misdiagnosis than those with head and neck diseases. Agreement in diagnosis between the ENT specialist and non-ENT clinicians was poor (κ = 0.0001). More effective, accelerated training of clinicians may improve diagnostic accuracy in low-resource settings.
Host populations, challenges, and commercialization of cryptococcal vaccines
Authors: Del Poeta Maurizio , Wormley Floyd L. , Lin Xiaorong
Published: February 2023

Vaccines are one of the most effective public health tools to prevent and manage infectious diseases. Since the first clinical use of vaccines in the late 18th century, many vaccines have been successfully developed to combat bacterial and viral infections, including the most recent Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. However, there remains no vaccine that is clinically available to treat or prevent invasive fungal diseases, including cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. This fungal disease is uniformly fatal without treatment and has a global mortality rate of over 70%. Despite a dire need for an effective cryptococcal vaccine, there are many scientific and economic challenges to overcome prior to making it a reality. Here, we discuss some of these challenges as well as steps that the community is taking for commercialization of effective cryptococcal vaccines.
Aeromonas hydrophila induction method in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio) as animal infection models
Authors: Qosimah Dahliatul , Santoso Sanarto , Maftuch Maftuch , Khotimah Husnul , Fitri Loeki Enggar , Aulanni'am Aulanni'am , Suwanti Lucia Tri
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim: Zebrafish are frequently used as model organisms in scientific research as their genes mirror those of humans. Aeromonas hydrophila bacteria can infect humans and animals, mainly fish. This study aimed to identify the concentration and route of A. hydrophila infection in adult zebrafish. Zebrafish had been used as a challenge test by analyzing their hematological profiles, blood glucose levels, and survival rates.

Materials and Methods: Induction of cell supernatant free (CSF) from A. hydrophila bacteria in adult zebrafish was carried out via bath immersion (BI), intraperitoneal injection (IPI), intramuscular injection (IMI), and healthy zebrafish as a control (C). The bacterial concentrations were 107, 109, and 1011 colony-forming units (CFU)/mL. At 24 h post-infection, the outcomes of infection were evaluated based on survival rates, hematological profiles, and blood glucose levels. A one-way analysis of variance with a confidence level of 95% was employed to examine the data.

Results: In the BI, IPI, and IMI treatment groups, the survival rate of the fish reached a peak of 100%, 22%–100%, and 16%–63%, respectively, compared with the injection technique. In the IMI2 group, a 109 CFU/mL bacterial concentration was determined to correspond to the lethal dosage 50. All infection groups had lower erythrocyte and hemoglobin counts but higher leukocyte counts than the control group. The blood sugar levels of the healthy and infected groups were not significantly different.

Conclusion: The route of A. hydrophila infection through Intramuscular injection with a concentration of 109 CFU/mL indicated a high performance compared to other techniques. This method could be developed as a reproducible challenge test.
Effects of Perceived Stress and Smartphone Addiction in College Students on Adjustment to College Life
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Lee Miyoung , Lee Min Kyoung
Published: February 2023

Purpose: This study was conducted to identify the main factors that influence college students’ perceived stress and smartphone addiction in adjusting to college life. Methods: Data was collected from 170 enrolled college students located at D. city. Using the SPSS 26.0 program, the collected data was analyzed through a t-test, ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation, and multiple regression analysis. Results: Consequently, among the general characteristics, grade(F=3.537, p=.016) and satisfaction with college major(F=17.631, p<.001) revealed a significant difference in adjusting to college life. Additionally, it was found that as perceived stress( β=-.552, p<.001) is high and smartphone addiction is the level of high risk( β=-.135, p=.017), the level of adjustment to college life decreases. These variables explain 49.9% of adjustment to college life. Conclusion: Therefore, to increase college students’ adjustment to college life, measures should be prepared to help promote self-growth by allowing them to recognize and control the degree of stress and level of smartphone addiction for themselves.
Mediating and Moderating Effects of Interpersonal Competence between Self Awareness and Peer Caring Interaction of Senior Nursing Students
Authors:   Crisis and Emergency Management: Theory and Praxis, Yun Ji Yeong , Park Bobae , Cho In Young
Published: February 2023

This study identified the mediating and moderating effects of interpersonal competence on the relationship between self awareness, and peer group caring interaction of senior nursing students. We collected data from March to April 2021, from 242 senior nursing students via online survey and analyzed the results using the SPSS/WIN 26.0 program. The data were analyzed with descriptive statistics, t-test, ANOVA, pearson correlation analysis and hierarchical multiple regression by using Baron & Kenny’s method. Interpersonal competence had a significant partial mediating effect on the relationship between self awareness and peer group caring interaction (z=3.83, p<.001) when using sobel test, but had no moderating effect. With these results, These findings indicate that it is highly necessary to develop intervention program to enhance appropriate interpersonal competence in addition to self awareness to improve the peer group caring interaction of senior nursing students.
The Triangulation of Shariah-compliancy, ESG-transparency, and the Financial Performance of Malaysia Islamic Equities.
Authors: Sabri Muhd Sazrie , Alimat Muhammad Aidil , Asta Mohd Safwan , Gipin@Victor Viexcle , Hamidun Nur Athirah , Alfred Audrey Fay , Abdul Hamit Ahmad Fauze
Published: February 2023

This study examines the impact of environmental, social and governance (ESG) practices on the ﬁnancial performance of Malaysian Shariah-compliant companies from 2017 to 2021. A Static Panel Data regression models are employed to examine the effect of ESG practices on the financial performance of Shariah-screened equities and the moderating effects of ESG-Leaders-Laggards on the relationship between ESG practices of Islamic companies on value maximisation. This study ﬁnds a positive relationship between ESG practices and firm ﬁnancial performance, suggesting Shariah-screened stocks combined with ESG-screened, particularly firms with higher social engagement, is value-creating. The authors also ﬁnd varying evidence on the subcomponents, namely Environmental (negative), Social (positive), and Governance (not related). Finally, it is also evident that ESG-Leaders/Laggards (scores of higher/lower than 50) positively/negatively enhance the ESG impact on financial performance.
Semiotax: equational models for the linguistic sentence and the 'computational thought'
Authors: López Quintana Francisco José
Published: February 2023

This paper presents several models of equations useful for Natural Language Processing. In this regard, a formal language for the analysis of sentences is used in order to introduce four prototypes of linguistic syncretism derived from the universal sentence equation; afterwards, we adopt another approach to explore the different structures of which every sentence is composed. Eventually, all these processes will lead to the archetypal pattern of what will be called 'computational thought'.
Incidence of Cirrhosis Among Recent Immigrants and Refugees to Ontario, Canada
Authors: Sayed Nawid , Selzner Nazia , Djerboua Maya , Muaddi Hala , Neves Paula , Flemming Jennifer A.
Published: February 2023

The epidemiology of cirrhosis among immigrants to North America has not been described. Using population-level data from Ontario, Canada, recent immigrant and refugees with incident cirrhosis were identified and stratified by World Bank region of origin and cirrhosis etiology. Incidence rates were described based on region of origin and etiology and compared with those in Canadian-born/long-term residents. A total of 25,054 immigrants/refugees were identified with rates of cirrhosis lower compared with those in Canadian-born/long-term residents for all etiologies except hepatitis B virus likely explained by the healthy immigrant effect. Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease was the most common etiology of cirrhosis among immigrants and refugees.
Ozanimod-Associated Iatrogenic Kaposi Sarcoma in a Patient With Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Sandlow Sarah , Rai Puja , Shum Ann , Chen Hannah , Arnold Jeffrey , Jangi Sushrut
Published: February 2023

Ozanimod is an oral sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator. Although it can be an effective drug for the induction and maintenance of remission in patients with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis, there have been a few reported cases of various malignancies after exposure to this small molecule. We describe a unique case of biopsy-proven Kaposi sarcoma of the skin and colon in a patient with biologic-resistant ulcerative colitis after treatment with ozanimod for 2 months. Given the potential risk of malignancy associated with this agent, physicians should be aware of this rare adverse event.
Gastric Ectopic Pancreas With Pseudocyst Formation Causing Gastric Outlet Obstruction
Authors: Dickerson Austin , Farrell Aran , Bushra Abida , Celinski Scott , Konda Vani J.A. , Kale Hemangi , Nguyen Anh D.
Published: February 2023

Ectopic pancreas is a rare entity referring to the presence of pancreatic tissue at an anatomic location distinct from the pancreas. Ectopic pancreatic lesions in the stomach present a diagnostic challenge because the lack of distinguishing imaging and endoscopic features make them difficult to differentiate from other types of submucosal lesions. We report a case of ectopic pancreas presenting as a gastric antral mass with a unique combination of rare complications: chronic pancreatitis and pseudocyst formation causing gastric outlet obstruction. This case highlights complications that can occur from ectopic pancreatic lesions and the challenges of diagnosing ectopic pancreas.
Sustainable Development Goal Aligned Business Practices
Authors: Bhattacharya Sonali , Sharma Dipasha
Published: February 2023

In this collection of fifteen articles we revisited the various aspects of sustainable development goals and how industries are proactively strategizing to create a greener and healthier world.
Integrating ESG Pillars for Business Model Innovation in the Biopharmaceutical Industry
Authors: Bhattacharya Annesha , Bhattacharya Sonali
Published: February 2023

The study explores critical factors that impact the Business Model of Biopharmaceutical firms and assess how ESG pillars can aid in Business Model innovation. Semi-structured personal interviews were conducted in face to face meetings with experienced industry professionals from cross-functional domains to attain diverse insights. The objective was to explore the relevance of ESG factors and their interplay, during Business Model Innovation from the perspective of experts in the Biopharmaceutical industry. Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) – a structured approach is applied to understand the criticality of various factors in sustainable business models. The study revealed that special emphasis should be laid on the Business Model and Governance Pillar – for re-designing innovative and sustainable business models. Social and Environment factors, although important, were rated lower on priority as such issues are usually focused upon by organizations at a higher level of maturity, after the basic hygiene factors are met. Some of the factors which were prioritized for Business Model innovation are Patient Health and Safety, Ethical marketing and advertising, Waste/ Effluent Management, Employee Health, Safety and Wellness, Patient value propositions, Building strategic resources and competencies, Product Quality & Safety and Business ethics and competitive behavior. Integrated reporting is another value-added dimension that was stressed by the respondents, to have a seamless and transparent communication channel established with all stakeholders. Aligning business metrics with ESG metrics is the focal point of this study, and the impact of each pillar on Biopharma Business Models was evaluated by industry experts. Integration of ESG parameters for Business Model Innovation is the new mantra for forward looking companies, and this study would help frame strategies for the Biopharma industry for sustainable value creation. The impact created by Business Model Innovation at an industry level will help create value for the society at large (who are the key beneficiaries of Biopharma products and services), and such studies would help add to the knowledge base.
Towards a Conceptual Framework of IT Operating Model and its Implications for Emerging Practices in Information Technology
Authors: Mishra Durga Das , Bharathi S. Vijayakumar
Published: February 2023

This paper is to establish a fit-for-purpose conceptual framework for the IT Operating model to handle emerging requirements in IT. Currently, there is no standard one size fits all kind of Operating Model. This paper brings a flexible IT Operating model to address emerging requirements. We examined today's various IT operating models suggested by Institutions and experts. Based on our study, we have proposed a conceptual framework for the IT Operating Model by carefully analysing the dimensions and mapping them to elements of IT Strategy and Operations discussed in this paper, giving an adaptive framework that can address various requirements. Our research shows a dearth of consistent framework and definition of an IT Operating Model. Hence, we see many facets of the operating model of organizations. Research, Advisory, and Consulting firms have given definitions and articulated the IT operating model to resolve this challenge. However, they need to be more consistent and address diverse requirements. This paper introduces a conceptual framework of the operating model to address the requirements of digital technology-related disruptions. This paper extends the existing body of knowledge around emerging IT Operating Models, and enhances it to create a conceptual framework. In doing this, we have also tried leveraging the existing knowledge body.
Comparative Performance of LSTM and ARIMA for the Short-Term Prediction of Bitcoin Prices
Authors: Latif Navmeen , Selvam Joseph Durai , Kapse Manohar , Sharma Vinod , Mahajan Vaishali
Published: February 2023

This research assesses the prediction of Bitcoin prices using the autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) and long-short-term memory (LSTM) models. We forecast the price of Bitcoin for the following day using the static forecast method, with and without re-estimating the forecast model at each step. We take two different training and test samples into consideration for the cross-validation of forecast findings. In the first training sample, ARIMA outperforms LSTM, but in the second training sample, LSTM exceeds ARIMA. Additionally, in the two test-sample forecast periods, LSTM with model re-estimation at each step surpasses ARIMA. Comparing LSTM to ARIMA, the forecasts were much closer to the actual historical prices. As opposed to ARIMA, which could only track the trend of Bitcoin prices, the LSTM model was able to predict both the direction and the value during the specified time period. This research exhibits LSTM's persistent capacity for fluctuating Bitcoin price prediction despite the sophistication of ARIMA.
QPVA-Based Electrospun Anion Exchange Membrane for Fuel Cells
Authors: Samsudin Asep Muhamad , Hacker Viktor
Published: February 2023

The anion exchange membrane is one of the core components that play a crucial and inseparable role in alkaline anion exchange membrane fuel cells. Anion exchange membranes (AEMs) were prepared from quaternary ammonium poly(vinyl alcohol) (QPVA) by an electrospinning method. QPVA was used both as material for electrospun fiber mats and as filler for the inter-fiber void matrix. The objective of this work is to investigate the influence of the inter-fibers void matrix filler concentration on the properties and performance of eQPVA-x AEMs. FTIR spectra were used to identify the chemical structures of the AEMs. The primary functional groups of PVA and quaternary ammonium-based ion conducting cation were detected. The surface morphology of QPVA nanofiber mats and eQPVA-x AEMs was observed using SEM. Electrospun nanofiber structures of QPVA with an average size of 100.96 nm were observed in SEM pictures. The ion exchange capacity, swelling properties, water uptake, and OH-ions conductivity were determined to evaluate the performance of eQPVA-x AEMs.  By incorporating the QPVA matrix of 5 wt.% concentration, the eQPVA-5.0 AEMs attained the highest ion exchange capacity, water uptake, swelling properties, and OH− conductivity of 0.82 mmol g−1, 25.5%, 19.9%, and 2.26 m×s cm−1, respectively. Electrospun QPVA AEMs have the potential to accelerate the development of alkaline anion exchange membrane fuel cells.
Long noncoding RNA ACART knockdown decreases 3T3-L1 preadipocyte proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Huang Renyan , Shi Chenyan , Liu Guobin
Published: February 2023

Obesity is a main risk factor for diabetes and cardiovascular disorders and is closely linked to preadipocyte differentiation or adipogenesis. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (PPARγ) is an indispensable transcription factor in adipogenesis. A newly identified long noncoding RNA, Acart, exerts a protective effect against cardiomyocyte injury by transactivating PPARγ signaling. However, the function of Acart in preadipocyte differentiation is unclear. To investigate the function of Acart in adipogenesis, a well-established preadipocyte, the 3T3-L1 cell line, was induced to differentiate, and Acart level was assessed during differentiation using quantitative real-time PCR. The biological role of Acart in adipogenesis was analyzed by assessing lipid droplet accumulation, PPARγ and CCAAT/enhancer-binding protein α (C/EBPα) expression, and 3T3-L1 cell proliferation and apoptosis after Acart silencing. We found that Acart level was promptly increased during preadipocyte differentiation in vitro. Acart was also significantly upregulated in obese mouse-derived subcutaneous, perirenal, and epididymal fat tissues compared with nonobese mouse-derived adipose tissues. Functionally, Acart depletion inhibited preadipocyte differentiation, as evidenced by a significant decrease in lipid accumulation and PPARγ and C/EBPα expression levels. Acart silencing also inhibited 3T3-L1 cell proliferation, whereas Acart overexpression accelerated 3T3-L1 cell proliferation and decreased cell apoptosis. Taken together, the current results reveal a novel function of Acart in regulating preadipocyte proliferation and differentiation.
Surgery, adjuvant immunotherapy plus chemotherapy and radiotherapy for primary malignant melanoma of the parotid gland (PGMM): A case report
Authors: Zhao Qiang , Li Zhi-Ke , Gui Yan , Ma Dai-Yuan , Du Guo-Bo , Li Xian-Fu
Published: February 2023

Primary malignant melanoma of the parotid gland (PGMM) is extremely rare, with a poor prognosis. Surgery is the main treatment option followed by adjuvant treatments such as radiotherapy, but which adjuvant treatment to be optimal is still controversial. In this case, a 63-year-old male PGMM patient was first misdiagnosed as a “myoepithelial tumor” and then treated with surgery, postoperative immunotherapy (sintilimab), chemotherapy, and radiotherapy successfully. The progression free survival was more than 19 months without signs of metastasis or recurrence to date. To our best knowledge, this is the first report of postoperative immunotherapy combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy for PGMM. Our case indicated that combination therapy including surgery, adjuvant immunotherapy (sintilimab) combined with chemotherapy and radiotherapy may be a potential treatment option for PGMM, which needs further research.
Analysis of bacterial community structure of Fuzhuan tea with different processing techniques
Authors: Liu Shiquan , Li Taotao , Yu Songlin , Zhou Xiaohong , Liu Zhanjun , Zhang Xuemao , Cai Hongmei , Hu Zhiyuan
Published: February 2023

The composition and diversity of microbial communities are of considerable significance to the quality development of Camellia sinensis (Fuzhuan tea). In this study, we examined differences in the bacterial community structures of loose, lightly-pressed, hand-made, and machine-pressed Fuzhuan teas and raw dark tea. We observed notable differences in the bacterial communities of the five groups, where there were only 51 consensus sequences. ASV/OTU Venn diagram, Chao1, Ace, Simpson indices, and dilution curve analyses consistently revealed that machine-pressed tea exhibited the highest bacterial diversity. Taxonomically, Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, and Cyanobacteria were the dominant bacterial phyla in each group, whereas Corynebacterium, Methylobacterium, and Bifidobacterium were the dominant genera. Our findings revealed significant differences in the bacterial community structures of different Fuzhuan tea products derived from the same raw material, with bacterial diversity rising with increased product compaction.
Vacuum impregnation pre-treatment: A novel method for incorporating mono- and divalent cations into potato strips to reduce the acrylamide formation in French fries
Authors: Cirit Berkay , Canbay Hale Seçilmiş , Gürsoy Oğuz , Yilmaz Yusuf
Published: February 2023

The effect of different vacuum impregnation (VI) pre-treatments of potato strips [in water (control), NaCl, KCl or CaCl2 (0.1 M) for 10 and 15 min] on acrylamide formation in French fries after deep frying in sunflower oil at 175°C for 5 min was determined. The acrylamide content of fries prepared with potato strips pre-treated by VI in distilled water decreased from 0.82 to 0.24 µg/g when time increased to 15 min. Moreover, the acrylamide content of fries from 10 min-KCl pre-treatment (0.35 µg/g) decreased significantly to 0.04 µg/g when time was 15 min (p < 0.05). In comparison to control (10 min), the VI pre-treatment in KCl and NaCl for 15 min reduced the relative content of acrylamide by 95 and 91%, respectively, and VI in distilled water was able to decrease this value by 71%. Results indicated that monovalent cations (K and Na) were more effective in reducing acrylamide formation than divalent cation (Ca2+) when the VI pre-treatment time increased to 15 min. In conclusion, VI as a pre-treatment for mono- and divalent cations in fried potato production could be a useful technique in industrial applications to reduce acrylamide formation in fries in a short time.
Instructions on appropriate fasting prior to phlebotomy; effects on patient awareness, preparation, and biochemical parameters
Authors: Andrade Nélia S.V. , Curtin Sinead N. , Masih Ashiq , Fitzgibbon Brid , Herbert Katie , Gowen Mary , Lehane Margaret , Costelloe Seán J.
Published: February 2023

Objectives

This study investigated the effect of appropriate pre-phlebotomy instructions on patients’ awareness of the need to fast, their fasting status at phlebotomy, and the measurement of specific biochemical analytes and indices.

Methods

While booking their phlebotomy appointments, two-hundred outpatients, with a wide range of pre-existing medical conditions, were recruited and randomly assigned to either control or intervention groups. The control group received no instructions while the intervention group was verbally instructed to fast for precisely 12 h prior to their appointment. Serum samples were collected from participants to quantify common biochemical analytes and serum indices, some of which were known to be influenced by fasting status, such as triglyceride and the lipaemic index. At the same appointment, participants completed a survey assessing their perception of, and adherence to, fasting requirements.

Results

In the intervention group, 99% responded that they had fasted before phlebotomy vs. 16% of controls. Subjects stated they fasted for 12 h in 51% of the intervention group and 7% of the controls. Median concentrations for potassium and total bilirubin were statistically, but not clinically, significantly different. In the study, a single patient in the intervention group was found to have a lipaemic sample.

Conclusions

Without instruction, it appears few patients will fast appropriately prior to blood collection. This study suggests that most patients recall and adhere to verbal instructions regarding fasting. Though many in the control group stated they did not fast, triglyceride concentration and lipaemia were not significantly different from the intervention group, and biochemical analyses appear unaffected by fasting status.
“Am I really abroad?” The informal language contact and social networks of Chinese foundation students in the UK
Authors: Zhou Siyang , Rose Heath
Published: February 2023

British higher education institutions attract a large number of international students, especially Chinese students, to pursue degrees in the UK every year. This longitudinal mixed-methods study tracked the informal language contact and social networks of Chinese foundation program students in the UK for two terms. A Language Contact Questionnaire and a Study Abroad Social Network Survey were administered to 84 students and semi-structured interviews were conducted with 26 participants in the first term and the second term of study. Data revealed that the participants generally had a high percentage of L1 use, high academic L2 contact, and mainly L1 social networks during studying abroad, with little variation over the two terms. Their relationships with international friends were superficial and a vibrant international student community was not found. L2 topic multiplexity and online L2 contact frequency weakly predicted the total informal L2 contact at Term 1 and Term 2. This study underscores that degree-oriented SA participants may have different prioritization and leisure time routines compared with summer school participants or exchange students abroad. Thus, with an extra foundation year in the host country, the current sample seemed to prioritize academic preparation, rather than social integration.
Germany – Still a Welfare Partnership Country?
Authors: Zimmer Annette , Priller Eckhard
Published: February 2023

Germany’s traditional nonprofit sector, rooted in membership associations that served as intermediaries between citizens and government, is a story of the past. The organizations have either suffered from a significant decrease in membership, or they have turned into business-like organisations. As a result, welfare partnership is still in place. However, the partners have significantly changed: governments are enchanted with the logic of the market; nonprofit organizations are no longer part of civil society but proxies of corporate enterprises, and volunteering is welcomed by the government as a substitute for cheap labour.
E-waste in Vietnam: a narrative review of environmental contaminants and potential health risks
Authors: Poudel Kritika , Ketema Rahel Mesfin , Thi Thu Ngo Hien , Ikeda Atsuko , Minatoya Machiko
Published: February 2023

Informal electronic waste (e-waste) dismantling activities contribute to releasing hazardous compounds in the environment and potential exposure to humans and their health. These hazardous compounds include persistent organic pollutants (POPs), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heavy metals. This review searched papers addressing hazardous compounds emitted from e-waste recycling activities and their health effects in Vietnam. Based on the keywords searched in three electronic databases (PubMed, Psych Info, and Google scholar), we found 21 relevant studies in Vietnam. The review identifies extensive e-waste dismantling activities in Vietnam in the northern region. To measure the environmental exposure to hazardous compounds, samples such as e-waste recycling workshop dust, soil, air, and sediments were assessed, while human exposure levels were measured using participants’ hair, serum, or breast milk samples. Studies that compared levels of exposure in e-waste recycling sites and reference sites indicated higher levels of PBDEs, PCBs, and heavy metals were observed in both environmental and human samples from participants in e-waste recycling sites. Among environmental samples, hazardous chemicals were the most detected in dust from e-waste recycling sites. Considering both environmental and human samples, the highest exposure difference observed with PBDE ranged from 2-48-fold higher in e-waste processing sites than in the reference sites. PCBs showed nearly 3-fold higher levels in e-waste processing sites than in reference sites. In the e-waste processing sites, age-specific higher PCB levels were observed in older recycler’s serum samples. Among the heavy metals, Pb was highly detected in drinking water, indoor soil and human blood samples. While high detection of Ni in cooked rice, Mn in soil and diet, Zn in dust and As in urine were apparent. Exposure assessment from human biomonitoring showed participants, including children and mothers from the e-waste processing areas, had higher carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks than the reference sites. This review paper highlights the importance of further comprehensive studies on risk assessments of environmentally hazardous substances and their association with health outcomes at e-waste processing sites.
Targeting the gut–microbiota–brain axis in irritable bowel disease to improve cognitive function – recent knowledge and emerging therapeutic opportunities
Authors: Tang Heyong , Chen Xiaoqi , Huang Shun , Yin Gang , Wang Xiyang , Shen Guoming
Published: February 2023

The brain–gut axis forms a bidirectional communication system between the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and cognitive brain areas. Disturbances to this system in disease states such as inflammatory bowel disease have consequences for neuronal activity and subsequent cognitive function. The gut–microbiota–brain axis refers to the communication between gut-resident bacteria and the brain. This circuits exists to detect gut microorganisms and relay information to specific areas of the central nervous system (CNS) that in turn, regulate gut physiology. Changes in both the stability and diversity of the gut microbiota have been implicated in several neuronal disorders, including depression, autism spectrum disorder Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis. Correcting this imbalance with medicinal herbs, the metabolic products of dysregulated bacteria and probiotics have shown hope for the treatment of these neuronal disorders. In this review, we focus on recent advances in our understanding of the intricate connections between the gut–microbiota and the brain. We discuss the contribution of gut microbiota to neuronal disorders and the tangible links between diseases of the GI tract with cognitive function and behaviour. In this regard, we focus on irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) given its strong links to brain function and anxiety disorders. This adds to the growing body of evidence supporting targeted therapeutic strategies to modulate the gut microbiota for the treatment of brain/mental-health-related disease.
Wear properties of Al/TiO2 composites fabricated via combined compo-casting and APB process
Authors: Wang Daya , Heydari Vini Mohammad , Daneshmand Saeed , Demin Al-Khafaji Ali Hussein , Ramírez-Coronel Andrés Alexis , Alfilh Raed H. C.
Published: February 2023

Compo-casting method is one of the popular techniques to produce metal-based matrix composites. But one of the main challenges in this process is un-uniform spreading of reinforced subdivisions (particles) inside the metallic matrix and the lack of desirable mechanical properties of the final produced composites due to the low bonding strength among the metal matrix and reinforcement particles. To remove these difficulties and to promote the mechanical properties of these kind of composites, the accumulative press bonding (WAPB) technique as a supplementary technique to heighten the mechanical and microstructural evolution of the casted Al/TiO2 composite bars was utilized as a novelty in this study. The microstructure evolution and mechanical properties of these composites have been compared with various WAPB steps using tensile test, average Vickers micro hardness test, wear test and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The SEM results revealed that during the higher APB steps, big titanium dioxide (TiO2) clusters are broken and the TiO2 particles are distributed uniformly. It was shown that cumulating the forming steps improved the mechanical properties of the composites. In general, combined compo-casting and APB process would consent making Al/TiO2 composites with high consistency and good microstructural and mechanical properties.
Kontaktlose induktive Strömungstomografie in grundlegender und angewandter Fluiddynamik
Authors: Sieger Max , Mitra Rahul , Glavinic Ivan , Ratajczak Matthias , Sonntag Stefanie , Gundrum Thomas , Stefani Frank , Wondrak Thomas , Eckert Sven
Published: February 2023

Kurzfassung

Mit der kontaktlosen induktiven Strömungstomografie (CIFT) lassen sich Geschwindigkeitsfelder in elektrisch leitfähigen Flüssigkeiten global bestimmen. Kenntnisse über den Strömungszustand in Metallschmelzen sind für industrielle Prozesse, wie das Stranggießen von Stahl, von immenser Bedeutung und können auch in der Grundlagenforschung nutzbringend angewendet werden, z.B. zur Analyse von konvektiven Flüssigmetallströmungen als Modellsysteme des Wärmetransportes. Das Verfahren beruht auf der präzisen Messung kleinster Magnetfeldänderungen durch geeignete Sonden und der nachfolgenden Rekonstruktion der Strömungsstruktur durch die Lösung eines linearen inversen Problems. In dieser Veröffentlichung geben wir einen Überblick über die Entwicklungen der letzten Dekade und diskutierten je einen Anwendungsfall für CIFT aus der grundlegenden und der angewandten Fluiddynamik.
Parliamentary elections in Italy 2022: the expected victory of the right populists
Authors:   Institute of Europe of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Alekseenkova Elena
Published: February 2023

Early parliamentary elections in Italy on September 25, 2022 led to the expected victory of the right coalition of four parties – «Brothers of Italy», League, «Forward, Italy!» and «We are moderates». The election results reflect the key trends in transformation of the Italian society observed in recent years: 1) society’s fatigue from “technical governments” and the permanent state of “emergency” since the global economic crisis, aggravated by Covid-19 pandemic and the consequences of the Russian-Ukrainian conflict; 2) the demand for responsible and legitimate leadership, personalisation of power and key political institutions – parties, government and presidency; 3) the desire to minimise the negative impact of international geopolitical and geo-economic tensions, which for many years have been making the Italian society feel like “losers from globalisation”, and which today can again become the main obstacle to economic recovery.
Neuronal SIRT3 Deletion Predisposes to Female-Specific Alterations in Cellular Metabolism, Memory, and Network Excitability
Authors: Pearson-Smith Jennifer N. , Fulton Ruth , Huynh Christopher Q. , Figueroa Anna G. , Huynh Gia B. , Liang Li-Ping , Gano Lindsey B. , Michel Cole R. , Reisdorph Nichole , Reisdorph Richard , Fritz Kristofer S. , Verdin Eric , Patel Manisha
Published: February 2023

Mitochondrial dysfunction is an early event in the pathogenesis of neurologic disorders and aging. Sirtuin 3 (SIRT3) regulates mitochondrial function in response to the cellular environment through the reversible deacetylation of proteins involved in metabolism and reactive oxygen species detoxification. As the primary mitochondrial deacetylase, germline, or peripheral tissue-specific deletion of SIRT3 produces mitochondrial hyperacetylation and the accelerated development of age-related diseases. Given the unique metabolic demands of neurons, the role of SIRT3 in the brain is only beginning to emerge. Using mass spectrometry-based acetylomics, high-resolution respirometry, video-EEG, and cognition testing, we report targeted deletion of SIRT3 from select neurons in the cortex and hippocampus produces altered neuronal excitability and metabolic dysfunction in female mice. Targeted deletion of SIRT3 from neuronal helix-loop-helix 1 (NEX)-expressing neurons resulted in mitochondrial hyperacetylation, female-specific superoxide dismutase-2 (SOD2) modification, increased steady-state superoxide levels, metabolic reprogramming, altered neuronal excitability, and working spatial memory deficits. Inducible neuronal deletion of SIRT3 likewise produced female-specific deficits in spatial working memory. Together, the data demonstrate that deletion of SIRT3 from forebrain neurons selectively predisposes female mice to deficits in mitochondrial and cognitive function.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTMitochondrial SIRT3 is an enzyme shown to regulate energy metabolism and antioxidant function, by direct deacetylation of proteins. In this study, we show that neuronal SIRT3 deficiency renders female mice selectively vulnerable to impairment in redox and metabolic function, spatial memory, and neuronal excitability. The observed sex-specific effects on cognition and neuronal excitability in female SIRT3-deficient mice suggest that mitochondrial dysfunction may be one factor underlying comorbid neuronal diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy. Furthermore, the data suggest that SIRT3 dysfunction may predispose females to age-related metabolic and cognitive impairment.