bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unified Framework for Space-Time Fabric Formation from the space chunks and it’s interaction with mass to emit gravitational waves: A theoretical Exploration
Authors: Shekhar Sushant
Published: September 2024

Considering the formation of space-time fabric and its sophisticated relation- ship with mass and gravitational waves is crucial to work out on the mysteries of the universe. In this paper, we delve into a hypothetical scenario where space emerge from a fundamental unit termed as a space chunk, exploring its evolution over time. By considering space as a function of time denoted as X(t), incorporating phenomena like quantum fluctuations, 4-D expansion of space, total energy change over a time interval , topology changes, multidimensional extensions, cosmic evolutions, observable consequences etc we discover the dynamics commanding its development. Moreover, we explore the manifestation of quantum fluctuations through the energy density operator pˆ(t) interpreting its fluctuations over time and its inherent role in the fabric of space-time. Four- dimensional expansion of space is characterised by the (FLRW) metric. Through mathematical derivations, we as- certain the rate of change of energy with respect to the expanding volume of space, focusing on the evolving nature of the vacuum.Subsequently, we reconnoitre the interaction between mass and space-time fabric, postulating the emission of gravitational waves as a consequence of mass interacting with the space-time fabric. By proposing hypothetical gravitational wave observables, we find out their joint observable state and its relationship with the mass-space- time interaction. Through rigorous mathematical formulations, we establish the mass as the eigenvalue of the universal gravitational operator, highlighting its fundamental role in shaping the fabric of the universe.
Construction and application of multi-scale 3D geological models: an example from Qingdao City, China
Authors: Ji Dong , Hou Jing , Cheng Zhiliang , Wei Shuai , Zhai Yue , Li Wenhao
Published: September 2024

The 3D geological model serves as a cornerstone, establishing the essential foundation and prerequisite for numerical simulations, analytical assessments, and evaluative procedures that are integral to the disciplines of geotechnical and geological engineering. The task of integrating vast quantities of multi-source, heterogeneous modeling data, the absence of stratigraphic division standards to meet varying precision requirements, and addressing the application demands of 3D geological models beyond the geological domain, pose significant challenges to the endeavor of 3D geological modeling. This is especially true for the construction of large-scale, high-precision 3D geological models at the urban level. Our research introduces a methodology for 3D geological modelling, with a particular focus on the dual-weighted interpolation technique for the integration of land-sea data and the establishment of a three-tiered coding system for bedrock layers. Focusing on Qingdao, a city characterized by its bedrock geology and situated along the eastern coastal region of China, our proposed method has successfully catalyzed the creation of models across four distinct scales: a comprehensive city-wide model covering an area of 11,282 square kilometers, five general models, two demonstration models, and five refined models. Further application cases have demonstrated that these models are not only capable of meeting the requirements of geological and geotechnical engineering across various scenarios, but also exhibit excellent interoperability and significant application potential when integrated with Building Information Modeling (BIM), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. The outcomes of this study are significant for the theoretical development and technological advancement of 3D geological modeling, and can also bring inspiration and reference to the work of 3D geological modeling in other areas.
Shale reservoir characterization and implications for the exploration and development of the upper Permian Wujiaping Formation, Longmen–Wushankan area, eastern Sichuan Basin
Authors: Tang Wen , Tuo Cong , Ma Shaoguang , Yao Yongjun , Liu Dongxi , Yang Xinrui , Yang Licheng , Li Hu
Published: September 2024

Recent exploration efforts have revealed significant industrial gas flow from the Wujiaping Formation marine shale in the Longmen–Wushankan area of the eastern Sichuan Basin, underscoring its considerable exploration potential. In this study, the reservoir characteristics and exploration potential of the Wujiaping Formation shale gas in this area are further evaluated. On the basis of well rock electrical properties, experimental analyses, and depositional and structural patterns in the eastern region, we characterize the reservoir properties and identify the primary factors controlling shale gas accumulation. The results indicate that the Wujiaping shale is characterized by a high organic matter content, favorable pore types, high porosity, and a high content of brittle minerals, which are conducive to subsequent development and fracturing. A positive correlation is observed between the total organic carbon (TOC) content, porosity, brittle mineral content, and shale gas content. The TOC content is strongly correlated with the gas content (the correlation coefficient is 0.75). The high shale gas yield of the Wujiaping Formation is attributed to a combination of favorable sedimentary environments, pore conditions, roof and floor conditions, and fracturing capabilities. However, compared with the Longmaxi Formation in the Sichuan Basin, the Wujiaping Formation shale is characterized by a lower porosity, thinner shale, and deeper burial, posing challenges for exploration and development. In this study, criteria for evaluating Wujiaping Formation shale gas are established, and four favorable exploration areas are identified. Overall, the Permian Wujiaping Formation marine shale in the Longmen–Wushankan area holds promising exploration and development potential. Further exploration and an enhanced understanding of this formation will provide valuable guidance for future marine shale gas exploration and development in this area.
Student-delivered behavior-specific praise: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis
Authors: Royer David James , Ennis Robin Parks
Published: September 2024

Behavior-specific praise is an easy-to-implement, teacher-delivered strategy that supports academic engagement while preventing and reducing disruptive behavior. By letting students know what they did, specifically, to meet academic, behavioral, and/or social expectations, students who find teacher attention reinforcing are more likely to engage in the same behavior more often in the future. While teacher-delivered behavior-specific praise was classified as a potentially evidence-based practice using Council for Exceptional Children standards, less is known about the effects of students who deliver behavior-specific praise to their peers. This systematic literature review and meta-analysis explored the literature base and found 36 articles meeting inclusion criteria. Fifteen articles included positive peer reporting as the independent variable, 20 included tootling as the intervention, two compared those interventions, and three used an “other” form of peer praise (i.e., peer praise notes, peer monitor tokens). Nine tootling articles met all eight quality indicators by absolute coding, and 32 out of all 36 studies met an 80% weighted quality indicator coding criterion for being methodologically sound. From these, we classified positive peer reporting in the mixed evidence category and tootling in the evidence-based practice category. We discuss benefits of various components in each type of peer praise intervention, limitations of the literature review, and make recommendations for future researchers.
Inspiratory muscle strength training to improve cardiometabolic health in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: protocol for the diabetes inspiratory training clinical trial
Authors: Reed Baylee L. , Tavoian Dallin , Bailey E. Fiona , Funk Janet L. , Coletta Dawn K.
Published: September 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a complex, chronic metabolic disease that carries with it a high prevalence of comorbid conditions, making T2DM one of the leading causes of death in the U.S. Traditional lifestyle interventions (e.g., diet, exercise) can counter some adverse effects of T2DM, however, participation in these activities is low with reasons ranging from physical discomfort to lack of time. Thus, there is a critical need to develop novel management strategies that effectively reduce cardiometabolic disease risk and address barriers to adherence. High-resistance inspiratory muscle strength training (IMST) is a time-efficient and simple breathing exercise that significantly reduces systolic and diastolic BP and improves vascular endothelial function in adults with above-normal blood pressure. Herein we describe the study protocol for a randomized clinical trial to determine the effects of a 6-week IMST regimen on glycemic control and insulin sensitivity in adults with T2DM. Our primary outcome measures include fasting plasma glucose, fasting serum insulin, and insulin resistance utilizing homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). Secondary outcome measures include resting systolic BP and endothelium-dependent dilation. Further, we will collect plasma for exploratory proteomic analyses. This trial seeks to establish the cardiometabolic effects of 6 weeks of high-resistance IMST in patients with T2DM.
Mendelian randomization analysis reveals no causal relationship between thyroid function and sarcopenia-related traits
Authors: Xu Rui , Li Yan-Yan , Xu Hong
Published: September 2024

Background

Recent research has indicated a potential association between thyroid function and sarcopenia, but the specific mechanisms and a definitive causal relationship have yet to be established. Therefore, the objective of this study is to examine the potential causal connection between thyroid function and sarcopenia-related traits, including hand-grip strength, appendicular lean mass (ALM), and walking pace.

Methods

The study used a bi-directional two-sample MR design, with thyroid function examined as the exposure and sarcopenia-related traits as the outcome in the first stage, and then reversed in the second stage. The genetic instruments for thyroid function were obtained from a comprehensive meta-analysis involving 271,040 participants. Data on sarcopenia-related traits based on GWASs were collected from the UK Biobank, which includes up to 461,026 European participants. The estimates for MR were calculated using the inverse-variance weighted (IVW) method, and several sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

After applying the Bonferroni correction for multiple testing, our MR analyses revealed no significant impact of thyroid function liability on sarcopenia-related traits. Similarly, our reverse MR analysis did not provide evidence supporting the influence of liability to sarcopenia-related traits on thyroid function. The results of the primary IVW MR analyses were largely in line with those obtained from our sensitivity MR analyses.

Conclusion

Our research findings do not suggest a link between thyroid function and sarcopenia-related traits. The associations identified in epidemiological studies may be influenced, at least in part, by shared biological mechanisms or environmental confounders.
The interaction between China’s economic recovery and environmental governance: a comprehensive analysis of energy consumption, CO2 emissions, and resource management
Authors: Duan Yuting
Published: September 2024

To gain a deeper understanding of the intrinsic dynamic relationship between energy consumption and economic growth in China. This study employs panel cointegration and causality models, utilizing the SYS-GMM technique to assess the factors influencing economic growth in China’s green finance sector from 2002 to 2022. The research explores the interactions among multiple variables related to the Chinese economic context, including economic growth, carbon dioxide emissions, total natural resource rents, energy consumption, and environmental impact. While considering key factors that may cause structural disturbances in the time series analysis. The findings indicate the existence of long-term cointegration relationships among these variables, with positive correlations between economic growth and total natural resource rents, energy consumption, energy quantity, and ecological footprint. Results also show a bidirectional causal relationship between carbon dioxide emissions and energy consumption and a unidirectional correlation between energy consumption and GDP growth. Additionally, energy intensity (EI) improvements supported by green finance are linked to a significant reduction in CO2 emissions, with a coefficient of −1.933 (p < 0.05), underscoring the role of technological innovation. Further evaluations suggest that investments in renewable energy can promote economic growth, create job opportunities, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Energy-saving measures and green finance-supported technological innovations play crucial roles in improving energy intensity and reducing CO2 emissions. The study also underscores the importance of economic diversification to reduce dependence on natural resources and enhance economic stability. Future research should further explore the economic feasibility and environmental benefits of emerging technologies such as Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS), providing deeper insights into sustainable energy practices.
The green development effect of science and technology financial policy in China
Authors: Zou Xuxin , Min Jiadi , Meng Shuang
Published: September 2024

Green development, as a key link in the philosophy of new development, is the only way to achieve sustainable development. However, how science and technology (S&T) finance affects green development remains unclear. Based on panel data of 284 cities in China from 2007 to 2020, the multi-time-point difference-in-differences (DID) model and the mediation model were utilized to analyze the influencing mechanisms and paths of the S&T financial pilot policy on green development. The results show that S&T financial policy can significantly promote green development, for which green innovation (GI) capability, industrial structure advancement (ISA), and industrial structure rationalization (ISR) are important paths. Moreover, the effects of S&T financial policy on green development are heterogeneous: the policy exerts a stronger effect on the central region than on the eastern and western regions, a stronger effect on large cities than on small- and medium-sized cities, and a stronger effect on key cities than on general cities. Therefore, relevant governmental departments should continually optimize S&T financial policy; pay more attention to cities in the western region, small- and medium-sized cities, and general cities; actively foster GI capability; facilitate industrial structure transformation and upgrading; and vigorously support cross-regional exchange and cooperation to jointly realize green development. This study sheds new light on how the S&T finance related policy reform promotes sustainable growth and socio-economic welfare in developing countries.
African swine fever virus MGF360-4L protein attenuates type I interferon response by suppressing the phosphorylation of IRF3
Authors: Wang Zhen , He Yuheng , Huang Ying , Zhai Wenzhu , Tao Chunhao , Chu Yuanyuan , Pang Zhongbao , Zhu Hongfei , Zhao Peng , Jia Hong
Published: September 2024

African swine fever (ASF) is a highly contagious and lethal disease of swine caused by African swine fever virus (ASFV), and the mortality rate caused by virulent stains can approach 100%. Many ASFV viral proteins suppress the interferon production to evade the host’s innate immune responses. However, whether ASFV MGF360-4L could inhibit type I interferon (IFN-I) signaling pathway and the underlying molecular mechanisms remain unknown. Our study, indicated that ASFV MGF360-4L could negatively regulates the cGAS-STING mediated IFN-I signaling pathway. Overexpressing ASFV MGF360-4L could inhibit the cGAS/STING signaling pathway by inhibiting the interferon-β promoter activity, which was induced by cGAS/STING, TBK1, and IRF3-5D, and further reduced the transcriptional levels of ISG15, ISG54, ISG56, STAT1, STAT2, and TYK2. Confocal microscopy and immunoprecipitation revealed that MGF360-4L co-localized and interacted with IRF3, and WB revealed that ASFV MGF360-4L suppressed the phosphorylation of IRF3. 4L-F2 (75-162 aa) and 4L-F3 (146-387 aa) were the crucial immunosuppressive domains and sites. Altogether, our study reveals ASFV MGF360-4L inhibited cGAS‐STING mediated IFN-I signaling pathways, which provides insights into an evasion strategy of ASFV involving in host’s innate immune responses.
Poor prognostic factors for relapse of interstitial lung disease with anti-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase antibodies after combination therapy
Authors: Matsuda Shogo , Kotani Takuya , Oe Katsumasa , Okazaki Ayana , Kiboshi Takao , Suzuka Takayasu , Wada Yumiko , Shoda Takeshi , Takeuchi Tohru
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to identify useful clinical indicators for predicting the relapse of interstitial lung disease (ILD) complicated with anti-aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase (ARS) antibodies (anti-ARS-ILD), being treated with prednisolone and calcineurin inhibitors.

Methods

Fifty patients with anti-ARS-ILD were enrolled between October 2014 and August 2022. All patients were treated with prednisolone and calcineurin inhibitors as remission induction therapy and followed up for over a year with these combination therapies. We examined patients who experienced ILD relapse after immunosuppressive treatment. We explored the risk factors for predicting ILD relapse in these patients by comparing demographic, clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings and treatments between the relapsed and non-relapsed groups on admission.

Results

Of the 50 patients, 19 (38%) relapsed during a median follow-up of 4.8 years. Univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses identified the presence of acute/subacute (A/S)-ILD, higher serum aldolase (ALD) and surfactant protein-D (SP-D) levels, and lower %forced vital capacity (FVC) as risk factors for relapse in patients with anti-ARS-ILD. Using the receiver operating curve analysis, ALD ≥6.3 U/L, SP-D ≥207 ng/mL, and %FVC ≤76.8% were determined as the cut-off levels for indicating a poor prognosis. The 5-year relapse rate was significantly higher in patients with A/S-ILD, serum ALD≥6.3 U/L, serum SP-D ≥207 ng/mL, or %FVC of ≤76.8% than in those without these parameters. (P=0.009, 0.0005, 0.0007, 0.0004, respectively) Serum ALD levels were significantly correlated with the disease activity indicators of anti-ARS-ILD.

Conclusion

The presence of A/S-ILD, higher serum ALD and SP-D levels, and lower %FVC are useful indicators for predicting anti-ARS-ILD relapse.
The role of parental characteristics, home language use, and schooling in children's Mandarin heritage language development in Canada
Authors: Daskalaki Evangelia , Soto-Corominas Adriana , Xia Vera Yunxiao , Paradis Johanne
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This study on child HL (heritage language) speakers of Mandarin examines the associations between parental characteristics (attitudes and proficiency), children's HL use (at home and through schooling), and children's HL outcomes (in vocabulary and simple syntax).

Methods

Forty-seven Mandarin-English bilingual children of Chinese heritage (mean age: 10.5; age range: 6.8–16.2) residing in Western Canada participated in the study. All children were second-generation immigrants, and received one of three types of schooling. There were 11 children who attended English-only schools (English school group), 21 who attended English-only schools but also after-school heritage Mandarin classes (Heritage school group), and 15 who attended English-Mandarin bilingual schools (Bilingual school group). The children were administered two tasks: a picture-naming task targeting Mandarin vocabulary (LITMUS-CLT) and an experimental elicitation task targeting Mandarin wh-interrogative sentences (an early-acquired structure). Parents were administered a questionnaire about home language environment, attitudes toward Mandarin transmission, and their children's schooling choices.

Results

Results showed that positive parental attitudes and lower parental proficiency in English were associated with more Mandarin use at home. More Mandarin use at home, in turn, was associated with larger vocabularies and more accurate production of interrogatives. By contrast, school type was only associated with vocabulary and not syntax: the Bilingual school group had larger vocabularies than the English school group.

Discussion

Overall, these results show how parental characteristics may influence input factors, which in turn may differentially affect the acquisition of vocabulary vs. early-acquired syntactic structures.
Effects of obesogenic diet and 17β-estradiol in female mice with APOE 3/3, 3/4, and 4/4 genotypes
Authors: Christensen Amy , McGill Cassandra J. , Qian Wenjie , Pike Christian J.
Published: September 2024

The main genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the apolipoprotein E ε4 allele (APOE4). AD risk associated with APOE4 disproportionately affects women. Furthermore, human and rodent studies indicate that the cognitive deficits associated with APOE4 are greater in females. One modifiable AD risk factor is obesity during middle age. Given that approximately two-thirds of US adults are overweight, it is important to understand how obesity affects AD risk, how it interacts with APOE4, and the extent to which its detrimental effects can be mitigated with therapeutics. One intervention study for women is estrogen-based hormone therapy, which can exert numerous health benefits when administered in early middle age. No experimental studies have examined the interactions among APOE4, obesity, and hormone therapy in aging females. To begin to explore these issues, we considered how obesity outcomes are affected by treatment with estradiol at the onset of middle age in female mice with human APOE3 and APOE4. Furthermore, to explore how gene dosage affects outcomes, we compared mice homozygous for APOE3 (3/3) and homozygous (4/4) or hemizygous (3/4) for APOE4. Mice were examined over a 4-month period that spans the transition into reproductive senescence, a normal age-related change that models many aspects of human perimenopause. Beginning at 5 months of age, mice were maintained on a control diet (10% fat) or high-fat diet (HFD; 60% fat). After 8 weeks, by which time obesity was present in all HFD groups, mice were implanted with an estradiol or vehicle capsule that was maintained for the final 8 weeks. Animals were assessed on a range of metabolic and neural measures. Overall, APOE4 was associated with poorer metabolic function and cognitive performance. However, an obesogenic diet induced relatively greater impairments in metabolic function and cognitive performance in APOE3/3 mice. Estradiol treatment improved metabolic and cognitive outcomes across all HFD groups, with APOE4/4 generally exhibiting the greatest benefit. APOE3/4 mice were intermediate to the homozygous genotypes on many measures but also exhibited unique profiles. Together, these findings highlight the importance of the APOE genotype as a modulator of the risks associated with obesity and the beneficial outcomes of estradiol.
Endogenous orexin and hyperacute autonomic responses after resuscitation in a preclinical model of cardiac arrest
Authors: Guo Yu , Gharibani Payam , Agarwal Prachi , Modi Hiren , Cho Sung-Min , Thakor Nitish V. , Geocadin Romergryko G.
Published: September 2024

Objectives

The study of autonomic responses to cardiac arrest (CA) resuscitation deserves attention due to the impact of autonomic function on survival and arousal. Orexins are known to modulate autonomic function, but the role of endogenous orexin in hyperacute recovery of autonomic function post-resuscitation is not well understood. We hypothesized that endogenous orexin facilitates hyperacute cardiovascular sympathetic activity post-resuscitation, and this response could be attenuated by suvorexant, a dual orexin receptor antagonist.

Methods

A well-established 7-min asphyxial CA rat model was studied. Heart rate (HR) and blood pressure were monitored from baseline to 90-min post-resuscitation. Autonomic function was evaluated by spectral analysis of HR variability, whereby the ratio of low- and high-frequency components (LF/HF ratio) represents the balance between sympathetic/parasympathetic activities. Plasma orexin-A levels and orexin receptors immunoreactivity in the rostral ventrolateral medulla (RVLM), the key central region for regulating sympathetic output, were measured post-resuscitation. Neurological outcome was assessed via neurologic-deficit score at 4-h post-resuscitation.

Key results

A significant increase in HR was found over 25–40 min post-resuscitation (p < 0.01 vs. baseline), which was attenuated by suvorexant significantly (p < 0.05). Increased HR (from 15-to 25-min post-resuscitation) was correlated with better neurological outcomes (rs = 0.827, p = 0.005). There was no evident increase in mean arterial pressure over 25–40 min post-resuscitation, while systolic pressure was reduced greatly by suvorexant (p < 0.05). The LF/HF ratio was higher in animals with favorable outcomes than in animals injected with suvorexant over 30–40 min post-resuscitation (p < 0.05). Plasma orexin-A levels elevated at 15-min and peaked at 30-min post-resuscitation (p < 0.01 vs. baseline). Activated orexin receptors-immunoreactive neurons were found co-stained with tyrosine hydroxylase-immunopositive cells in the RVLM at 2-h post-resuscitation.

Conclusion

Together, increased HR and elevated LF/HF ratio indicative of sympathetic arousal during a critical window (25–40 min) post-resuscitation are observed in animals with favorable outcomes. The orexin system appears to facilitate this hyperacute autonomic response post-CA.
Effects of saponins Rb1 and Re in American ginseng intervention on intestinal microbiota of aging model
Authors: Shi Mao , Fan HongXiu , Liu HongCheng , Zhang YanRong
Published: September 2024

Aging brings about physiological dysfunction, disease, and eventual mortality. An increasing number of studies indicate that aging can easily lead to dysbiosis of the gut microbiota, which can further affect digestion, nerves, cognition, emotions, and more. Therefore, gut bacteria play an important role in regulating the physical functions of aging populations. While saponins, the primary components of American ginseng, are frequently utilized for treating common ailments in the elderly due to their potent antioxidant properties, there is a scarcity of comprehensive studies on aging organisms. This study focused on 18 month old aging mice and investigated the effects of single intervention and combined intervention of Rb1 and Re, the main components of Panax quinquefolium saponins, on the gut microbiota of aging mice. High throughput 16s RNA gene sequencing analysis was performed on the gut contents of the tested mice, and the results showed that Rb1 and Re had a significant impact on the gut microbiota. Rb1, Re, and Rb1 + Re can effectively enhance the diversity of gut microbiota, especially in the combined Rb1 + Re group, which can recover to the level of young mice. Re can promote the abundance of probiotics such as Lactobacillus, Lactobacillaceae, and Lactobacillus, and inhibit the abundance of harmful bacteria such as Enterobacteriaceae. This indicates that the intervention of Rb1, Re, and Rb1 + Re can maintain the homeostasis of gut microbiota, and the combined application of Rb1 + Re has a better effect. The relationship between aging, brain gut axis, and gut microbiota is very close. Saponins can improve the gut microbiota of aging individuals by maintaining the balance of gut microbiota and the normal function of the brain gut axis, enabling the body to achieve a gut microbiota homeostasis closer to that of young healthy mice.
Sialyl-Tn glycan epitope as a target for pancreatic cancer therapies
Authors: Abrantes Rafaela , Lopes Joanne , Lopes Daniel , Gomes Joana , Melo Sónia A. , Reis Celso A.
Published: September 2024

Pancreatic cancer (PC) is the sixth leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide, primarily due to late-stage diagnosis and limited treatment options. While novel biomarkers and immunotherapies are promising, further research into specific molecular targets is needed. Glycans, which are carbohydrate structures mainly found on cell surfaces, play crucial roles in health and disease. The Thomsen-Friedenreich-related carbohydrate antigen Sialyl-Tn (STn), a truncated O-glycan structure, is selectively expressed in epithelial tumors, including PC. In this study, we performed a comprehensive analysis of STn expression patterns in normal, premalignant, and malignant pancreatic lesions. Additionally, we analyzed the association between STn expression and various clinicopathological features. STn expression was statistically associated with pathological diagnosis; it was absent in normal pancreatic tissue but prevalent in pancreatic carcinoma lesions, including pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma, and pancreatic adenosquamous carcinoma. Moreover, we found a significant association between STn expression and tumor stage, with higher STn levels observed in stage II tumors compared to stage I. However, STn expression did not correlate with patient survival or outcomes. Furthermore, STn expression was assessed in PDAC patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, revealing consistent STn levels throughout engraftment and tumor growth cycles. This finding supports the PDX model as a valuable tool for testing new anti-STn therapeutic strategies for PC in clinical setting.
True nature of hybrid work
Authors: Vartiainen Matti , Vanharanta Outi
Published: September 2024

Introduction

This article reviews the discussion concerning hybrid work (HW) during and after the pandemic. We argue that understanding hybrid work as simply dividing working time between an office and another location limits the potential of organizing work sustainably based on organizations' goals and employee needs. Understanding the core nature of hybridity as a flexible and systemic entity and a “combination of two or more things” impacting work outcomes such as wellbeing and performance opens a much richer view of organizing work now and in the future. The critical questions are: What is the core nature of hybridity when two or more things are combined in work, and what factors influence configuring them? Moreover, what are their potential wellbeing and performance outcomes?

Methods

To discover core elements, we reviewed how the HW concept was defined in consulting companies' publications, business journals, and international organizations' publications, mainly focusing on challenges and opportunities for hybrid work during COVID-19. We also analyzed how the concept was used in European questionnaire findings from 27 EU countries during the pandemic. The potential wellbeing and performance outcomes were studied using a sample of prior literature reviews on remote and telework. To identify “Two or more things” in the discussions, we broke down the HW concepts into the physical, virtual, social, and temporal work elements and their sub-elements and designable features.

Results

We found that the concepts used in the discussions on hybrid work reflect traditional views of remote and telework as a combination of working at home and in the office.

Discussion

We suggest configuring hybrid work as a flexible entity, which opens a perspective to design and implement diverse types of hybrid work that are much more prosperous and sustainable than just combining onsite and offsite work. The expected wellbeing and performance outcomes can be controversial due to the misfit of the hybrid work elements with the organizational purpose, employee needs and expectations, and non-observed contextual factors in implementations.
The leukotriene receptor antagonist montelukast as a potential therapeutic adjuvant in multiple sclerosis – a review
Authors: Pietrantonio Frank , Serreqi Alex , Zerbe Horst , Svenningsson Per , Aigner Ludwig
Published: September 2024

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a multifactorial autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS). It is characterized by a heightened activation of the immune system with ensuing inflammation, demyelination and neurodegeneration with consequences such as motor, sensory, cognitive, as well as autonomic dysfunctions. While a range of immune-modulatory drugs have shown certain efficacy in alleviating pathology and symptoms, none of the currently available therapeutics regenerates the damaged CNS to restore function. There is emerging evidence for leukotrienes and leukotriene receptors being involved in the various aspects of the MS pathology including neuroinflammation and de/remyelination. Moreover, leukotriene receptor antagonists such as the asthma drug montelukast diminish inflammation and promote regeneration/remyelination. Indeed, montelukast has successfully been tested in animal models of MS and a recent retrospective case-control study suggests that montelukast treatment reduces relapses in patients with MS. Therefore, we propose montelukast as a therapeutic adjuvant to the standard immune-modulatory drugs with the potential to reduce pathology and promote structural and functional restoration. Here, we review the current knowledge on MS, its pathology, and on the potential of leukotriene receptor antagonists as therapeutics for MS.
Shallow crustal structure detection of the upper crust at Anqiu-Juxian Fault in the Tanlu fault zone
Authors: Huang Qilong , Fan Xiaoping , Fu Wei , Zhang Peng , Zheng Tuo , Liu Yunze , Zhang Tiantian , Ren Shiyu , Wang Qinghui , Liu Zhiwen , Qian Ting
Published: September 2024

Within the Tan-Lu Fault Zone, the largest active tectonic belt in eastern China, the Anqiu-Juxian Fault exhibits the most recent activity period, evident surface traces, and highest seismic hazard, making it a Holocene active fault. This study utilized the vertical component continuous data observed by 100 short-period temporary stations from August 1–21, 2023, and extracted 1,944 Rayleigh wave group velocity dispersion curves within the period of 0.2–4 s. Using the direct surface wave tomography method, we calculated a high-resolution 3-D shear-wave velocity structure at depths of 0.2–1.25 km within the study area. Our results are summarized as follows: 1) The development of faults F1, F2, and F5 in the Tan-Lu Fault Zone highly correlated with the shear-wave velocity anomalies at depths >0.8 km. Specifically, fault F5 comprised two boundary faults, F5-1 and F5-2, which together controlled a Cenozoic depression covered by a thick, low-velocity sediment layer. 2) The complex velocity structure characteristics in the Suqian area revealed that the influence of faults on the sedimentary layers in the Suqian area was not expressed as an overall uplift or subsidence of the block but rather as differential subsidence. 3) Near Sankeshu, the F5 fault formed a small pull-apart basin. The latest activity in this pull-apart basin has shifted to the fault in the center of the basin, indicating that the pull-apart basin has entered the extinction stage.
Evaluation of cucumber seed germination vigor under salt stress environment based on improved YOLOv8
Authors: Fang Zhengxin , Fan Qinglu , Tian Luxu , Jiang Haoyu , Wang Chen , Fu Xiuqing , Li Xiaozhong , Li Meng , Zhang Shiyan , Zhang Yaben , Li Yingyue
Published: September 2024

Seed germination vigor is one of the important indexes reflecting the quality of seeds, and the level of its germination vigor directly affects the crop yield. The traditional manual determination of seed germination vigor is inefficient, subjective, prone to damage the seed structure, cumbersome and with large errors. We carried out a cucumber seed germination experiment under salt stress based on the seed germination phenotype acquisition platform. We obtained image data of cucumber seed germination under salt stress conditions. On the basis of the YOLOv8-n model, the original loss function CIoU_Loss was replaced by ECIOU_Loss, and the Coordinate Attention(CA) mechanism was added to the head network, which helped the model locate and identify the target. The small-target detection head was added, which enhanced the detection accuracy of the tiny target. The precision P, recall R, and mAP of detection of the model improved from the original values of 91.6%, 85.4%, and 91.8% to 96.9%, 97.3%, and 98.9%, respectively. Based on the improved YOLOv8-ECS model, cucumber seeds under different concentrations of salt stress were detected by target detection, cucumber seed germination rate, germination index and other parameters were calculated, the root length of cucumber seeds during germination was extracted and analyzed, and the change characteristics of root length during cucumber seed germination were obtained, and finally the germination activity of cucumber seeds under different concentrations of salt stress was evaluated. This work provides a simple and efficient method for the selection and breeding of salt-tolerant varieties of cucumber.
Risk factors for cognitive dysfunction amongst patients with cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Pal Tunde , Iantovics Laszlo Barna , Preg Zoltan , Nemes-Nagy Eniko , Nyulas Kinga-Ilona , Baba Dragos-Florin , German-Sallo Marta
Published: September 2024

Background

The impact of cardiovascular diseases on cognition raises important research questions. The study aimed to investigate the relationship between demographic data, cardiovascular diseases, kidney disease and depressive symptoms on cognition.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of patients with cardiovascular diseases was performed. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was applied for cognitive evaluation. Based on MoCA three groups were defined: preserved cognition, mild, and advanced cognitive dysfunction (CD). Data were analyzed using Cronbach alpha (Cα) and McDonald’s ω (Mω) for internal consistency. The Chi-square test, Cramer’s V test, and correlation analyses were also applied.

Results

Of 628 patients, 55.2% had mild CD, and the mean age was 67.95 (SD 9.53) years. Cα and Mω were 0.7, indicating good internal consistency. We found a moderate positive correlation between depression and the severity of CD (r = 0.25, p = 0.0001). A weak association between CD and female gender (p = 0.016), atrial fibrillation (p = 0.03), stroke (p = 0.009), and a moderate association for age group (p < 0.0001), education level (p < 0.0001), smoking (p < 0.0001), and renal dysfunction (p < 0.0001) was found. Age ≥ 70 years, eGFR 30–59 mL/min/1.73m2 significantly increased the likelihood for mild and advanced CD, while smoking and > 9 classes decreased it. Female gender, history of atrial fibrillation, and stroke significantly increased the likelihood of advanced CD.

Conclusion

Mild CD was the most common in patients with cardiovascular diseases. Older age, lower education, being a non-smoker, and renal dysfunction were risk factors for both mild and advanced CD. Female gender, previous diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, and stroke are risk factors for advanced CD.
An engagement framework for the authentic co-design of a consent and healthy relationships intervention with upper-secondary students
Authors: Pantaleo Ashleigh M. , Dzidic Peta L. , Newnham Elizabeth , Chih HuiJun , Wells Robert , Olson Brad , Langley Sarah , Schonfeld Adrian , Hendriks Jacqueline
Published: September 2024

Introduction

The objective of this demand driven research is to co-design an intervention for upper-secondary students that addresses issues of consent and healthy relationships. In this paper, we (university researchers, student co-researchers, school staff), present the engagement framework that has been critical to the project's development and planned implementation.

Methods

An iterative co-design approach grounded in a participatory research approach is currently being adopted. Student co-researchers from three independent secondary schools on Whadjuk Nyungar Country in Boorloo/Perth, Western Australia, have been engaged as co-researchers in the design of the intervention. Supplementary quantitative and qualitative data from students enrolled at each school site is also being collated to further inform the intervention design. Student co-researchers will provide insights on the overarching design of the intervention including: the scope of key concepts they want to learn, interpretation of supplementary data, and the development of contextually relevant educative content.

Results

Retrospective and prospective components of the engagement framework are described and supported with applied examples where applicable. Preliminary results demonstrate the imperative of adopting iterative co-design, and the efficacy of our authentic engagement framework. A draft intervention has been formalized and will soon undergo piloting. The co-design process has already resulted in an intervention that differs from the initial program first conceptualized by university researchers.

Conclusion

Imperative to our engagement framework is centering students as experts of their lived experience. It is anticipated that this engagement framework will provide insights around the feasibility, value, and necessity for authentic engagement of upper-secondary school students in the design of their consent and healthy relationship education.
Toxic elements in benthic lacustrine sediments of Utah’s Great Salt Lake following a historic low in elevation
Authors: Jung Julie , Frantz Carie M. , Fernandez Diego P. , Werner Michael S.
Published: September 2024

Terminal lakes (without outflow) retain elements and compounds that reach them through fluvial, point source or atmospheric deposition. If the lake sediment is exposed, some of these chemicals could become toxic dust particulates. The Great Salt Lake (GSL) in Utah is a terminal lake that experienced record-low lake elevation in 2021-22, exposing vast areas of playa. Here, we used inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to analyze the environmental chemistry of GSL shallow sediment during historic lows in spring, summer, and fall of 2021. Contaminants at the subsurface interface are most able to influence diffusion into the water column and uptake by benthic biota. We focused our analysis on copper, thallium, arsenic, mercury, lead, and zinc, which have been historically deposited in this region and are toxic when at high concentrations. We compared records of regional mining activity to understand the current contamination and assess relevant spatial and temporal gradients. We also used two different extraction methods (EPA 3050b and NH4AcO at pH=7) that can distinguish “environmentally available” vs. tightly associated and less available fractions. We observed consistent concentration of copper across sites indicating a larger relative impact of atmospheric deposition, with some evidence indicating further impacts of point sources. Arsenic, on the other hand, is maintained at high levels in submerged sediments and is likely geologically- and fluvially- derived. Thallium and mercury fluctuate seasonally and correlate with lake elevation. Lead and zinc levels are relatively low in GSL sites compared with freshwater input sites, indicating the deep brine layer may sequester these heavy metals, preventing their release into the water column. Overall, the concentrations of most metals in GSL sediments have declined from historic highs. However, each contaminant has distinct sources, seasonality, mobility and transmission. Complete recovery (if possible) may require many more decades and individual remediation strategies.
Case Report: Misdiagnosis of a lipofibromatosis-like neural tumor of the dorsal skin as dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans
Authors: Zhang Xiaowei , Yan Chen , Xu Tingting , Ying Jiajia
Published: September 2024

Background

Lipofibromatosis-like neural tumors (LPF-NT), which have only recently been established, are intermediate soft tissue tumors with neurotrophic tropomyosin receptor kinase 1 (NTRK1) gene alterations and are typically misdiagnosed as dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans, low-grade malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors, or spindle cell lipoma due to their histopathological and immunohistochemical expression of CD34 and S-100.

Case presentation

The patient was admitted to our hospital with a painless back mass that had appeared more than 4 years prior to admission. Physical examination revealed a subcutaneous mass on the back, approximately 1.5 cm in diameter and protruding into the skin, with clear boundaries and no tenderness. The tumor was surgically resected. The postoperative pathological results suggested a spindle cell soft tissue tumor, and dermatofibrosarcoma protuberan was initially considered. After consultation at a provincial hospital, the patient was diagnosed with a cutaneous lipofibromatosis-like neural tumor of the back. A second extended resection was then performed. Intraoperative rapid freezing examination revealed negative incision margins.

Conclusion

Histological and immunohistochemical detections aid in the differential diagnosis of LPF-NTs. Complete surgical resection is the preferred treatment for LPF-NTs.
Use of recombinant proteins for the diagnosis and prevention of Mycoplasma bovis: a systematic review
Authors: Gomes Camila Pachêco , da Silva Lucas Santana Coelho , Santos Júnior Manoel Neres , Barbosa Maysa Santos , Neves Wanderson Souza , Ribeiro Viviane Gomes , Bastos Bruno Lopes , Marques Lucas Miranda
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Mycoplasma bovis is a highly contagious pathogen that causes various diseases in herd animals, negatively impacting reproduction, production, and milk yield. Effective diagnostic methods and vaccine development are critical for controlling M. bovis outbreaks. This systematic review aimed to evaluate diagnostic alternatives and vaccine compounds based on recombinant proteins.

Methods

Following the PRISMA protocol, a systematic search was conducted in the SciELO, PubMed, and CAPES Periodicals Portal databases. Inclusion criteria included studies published between 2008 and 2023 that involved (1) the use of recombinant proteins for M. bovis identification or vaccine production, (2) biological samples, (3) availability in the selected databases, (4) in vitro or in vivo experimental designs, and (5) English-language publications.

Results

Ten of the initial 53 studies screened met the inclusion criteria. Of these, four studies focused on diagnostic approaches and six on vaccine development. Diagnostic studies predominantly used an indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) with recombinant proteins, achieving over 90% sensitivity and specificity in detecting M. bovis infections. In contrast, the development of recombinant vaccines has shown limited success, with challenges in identifying effective adjuvants and optimizing conditions for protective immunity.

Discussion

While recombinant protein-based diagnostics have proven effective, developing a successful vaccine against M. bovis remains elusive. Further research is necessary to refine vaccine formulations, including selecting suitable adjuvants and challenge models to enhance protective efficacy against M. bovis infections.