bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Time-frequency analysis reveals an association between the specific nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signal properties of serum samples and arteriosclerotic lesion progression in a diabetes mouse model
Authors: Yui Kanako , Kanawaku Yoshimasa , Morita Akio , Hirakawa Keiko , Cui Fanlai
Published: March 2024

Diabetes causes arteriosclerosis, primarily due to persistent hyperglycemia, subsequently leading to various cardiovascular events. No method has been established for directly detecting and evaluating arteriosclerotic lesions from blood samples of diabetic patients, as the mechanism of arteriosclerotic lesion formation, which involves complex molecular biological processes, has not been elucidated. “NMR modal analysis” is a technology that enables visualization of specific nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) signal properties of blood samples. We hypothesized that this technique could be used to identify changes in blood status associated with the progression of arteriosclerotic lesions in the context of diabetes. The study aimed to assess the possibility of early detection and evaluation of arteriosclerotic lesions by NMR modal analysis of serum samples from diabetes model mice. Diabetes model mice (BKS.Cg db/db) were bred in a clean room and fed a normal diet. Blood samples were collected and centrifuged. Carotid arteries were collected for histological examination by hematoxylin and eosin staining on weeks 10, 14, 18, 22, and 26. The serum was separated and subjected to NMR modal analysis and biochemical examination. Mice typically show hyperglycemia at an early stage (8 weeks old), and pathological findings of a previous study showed that more than half of mice had atheromatous plaques at 18 weeks old, and severe arteriosclerotic lesions were observed in almost all mice after 22 weeks. Partial least squares regression analysis was performed, which showed that the mice were clearly classified into two groups with positive and negative score values within 18 weeks of age. The findings of this study revealed that NMR modal properties of serum are associated with arteriosclerotic lesions. Thus, it may be worth exploring the possibility that the risk of cardiovascular events in diabetic patients could be assessed using serum samples.
The primary ciliary dyskinesia-related genetic risk score is associated with susceptibility to adult-onset asthma
Authors: Shigemasa Rie , Masuko Hironori , Oshima Hisayuki , Hyodo Kentaro , Kitazawa Haruna , Kanazawa Jun , Yatagai Yohei , Iijima Hiroaki , Naito Takashi , Saito Takefumi , Konno Satoshi , Hirota Tomomitsu , Tamari Mayumi , Sakamoto Tohru , Hizawa Nobuyuki
Published: March 2024

Background

Disturbance of mucociliary clearance is an important factor in the pathogenesis of asthma. We hypothesized that common variants in genes responsible for ciliary function may contribute to the development of asthma with certain phenotypes.

Methods

Three independent adult Japanese populations (including a total of 1,158 patients with asthma and 2,203 non-asthmatic healthy participants) were studied. First, based on the ClinVar database (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/clinvar/), we selected 12 common single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with molecular consequences (missense, nonsense, and 3’-untranslated region mutation) in 5 primary ciliary dyskinesia (PCD)-related genes and calculated a PCD-genetic risk score (GRS) as a cumulative effect of these PCD-related genes. Second, we performed a two-step cluster analysis using 3 variables, including PCD-GRS, forced expiratory volume in 1 second (%predicted FEV1), and age of asthma onset.

Results

Compared to adult asthma clusters with an average PCD-GRS, clusters with high and low PCD-GRS had similar overall characteristics: adult-onset, female predominance, preserved lung function, and fewer features of type 2 immunity as determined by IgE reactivity and blood eosinophil counts. The allele frequency of rs1530496, a SNP representing an expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) of DNAH5 in the lung, showed the largest statistically significant difference between the PCD-GRS-High and PCD-GRS-Low asthma clusters (p = 1.4 x 10−15).

Conclusion

Genes associated with PCD, particularly the common SNPs associated with abnormal expression of DNAH5, may have a certain influence on the development of adult-onset asthma, perhaps through impaired mucociliary clearance.
DFT and molecular simulation validation of the binding activity of PDEδ inhibitors for repression of oncogenic k-Ras
Authors: Majrashi Taghreed A. , Sabt Ahmed , Almahli Hadia , El Hassab Mahmoud A. , Noamaan Mahmoud A. , Elkaeed Eslam B. , Hamissa Mohamed Farouk , Maslamani Abdalkareem Nael , Shaldam Moataz A. , Eldehna Wagdy M.
Published: March 2024

The development of effective drugs targeting the K-Ras oncogene product is a significant focus in anticancer drug development. Despite the lack of successful Ras signaling inhibitors, recent research has identified PDEδ, a KRAS transporter, as a potential target for inhibiting the oncogenic KRAS signaling pathway. This study aims to investigate the interactions between eight K-Ras inhibitors (deltarazine, deltaflexin 1 and 2, and its analogues) and PDEδ to understand their binding modes. The research will utilize computational techniques such as density functional theory (DFT) and molecular electrostatic surface potential (MESP), molecular docking, binding site analyses, molecular dynamic (MD) simulations, electronic structure computations, and predictions of the binding free energy. Molecular dynamic simulations (MD) will be used to predict the binding conformations and pharmacophoric features in the active site of PDEδ for the examined structures. The binding free energies determined using the MMPB(GB)SA method will be compared with the observed potency values of the tested compounds. This computational approach aims to enhance understanding of the PDEδ selective mechanism, which could contribute to the development of novel selective inhibitors for K-Ras signaling.
Trends in mental health problems among Swedish adolescents: Do school-related factors play a role?
Authors: Buli Benti Geleta , Larm Peter , Nilsson Kent W. , Hellström-Olsson Charlotta , Giannotta Fabrizia
Published: March 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the extent to which school-related factors, such as school liking, participation in decision-making, school-related parental support, teachers’ support, and school physical environment, explain trends in mental health problems. The problems considered are psychosomatic symptoms (PSS), depressive symptoms (DS), suicidal ideations (SI), and suicide attempts (SA) among Swedish adolescents of varying socioeconomic status (SES) from 2004 to 2020.

Methods

We analyzed data collected through repeated cross-sectional surveys from 19,873 15-year-old students at schools in a county in Sweden. Boys and girls each constituted 50% of the participants. We fitted linear and logistic regression models to investigate associations between the school-related factors and trends in mental health problems.

Results

Increased school-related parental support and school liking were cross-sectionally associated with decreased PSS, DS and SI, with school liking also associated with decreased SA. Conducive school physical environment was also found to be cross-sectionally associated with lower PSS and DS scores. Over time, mental health problems have shown a general increase among adolescents in the low SES group and a decrease among those in the high SES group. While school-related factors explained the improvement in mental health in the high SES group, we found such association only between parental support trends in PSS and DS, along with participation and trends in SA over time among adolescents in the low SES group.

Conclusions

The results show that school-related factors play significant roles in influencing adolescent mental health. The influence, however, varied across SES gradients over time. This suggests that working against inequities in school-related factors would help address inequities in mental health.
Small molecule mediators of host-T. cruzi-environment interactions in Chagas disease
Authors: Kwakye-Nuako Godwin , Middleton Caitlyn E. , McCall Laura-Isobel
Published: March 2024

Small molecules (less than 1,500 Da) include major biological signals that mediate host-pathogen-microbiome communication. They also include key intermediates of metabolism and critical cellular building blocks. Pathogens present with unique nutritional needs that restrict pathogen colonization or promote tissue damage. In parallel, parts of host metabolism are responsive to immune signaling and regulated by immune cascades. These interactions can trigger both adaptive and maladaptive metabolic changes in the host, with microbiome-derived signals also contributing to disease progression. In turn, targeting pathogen metabolic needs or maladaptive host metabolic changes is an important strategy to develop new treatments for infectious diseases. Trypanosoma cruzi is a single-celled eukaryotic pathogen and the causative agent of Chagas disease, a neglected tropical disease associated with cardiac and intestinal dysfunction. Here, we discuss the role of small molecules during T. cruzi infection in its vector and in the mammalian host. We integrate these findings to build a theoretical interpretation of how maladaptive metabolic changes drive Chagas disease and extrapolate on how these findings can guide drug development.
A durabilidade dos geossintéticos: estigma ou fator de sustentabilidade
Authors: Lopes Maria da Graça , Barroso Madalena
Published: March 2024

Este artigo pretende mostrar que, paralelamente ao sucesso da utilização dos geossintéticos em inúmeras aplicações, estes tiveram sempre de superar grandes desafios/estigmas para se impor no mercado, muitos deles relacionados com a sua durabilidade: numa 1ª fase era questionado se a sua durabilidade seria suficiente, tendo em consideração a vida útil das obras geotécnico-ambientais em que eram (e são) aplicados e mais recentemente, questionando a sua durabilidade excessiva, pondo em causa a sua sustentabilidade. Assim, pretende-se mostrar que a durabilidade dos geossintéticos é e sempre foi um fator de sustentabilidade e desmistificar esse estigma.
Effect of expanding farmlands with domestication of animals in the vicinity of disturbed swamps and built-up farmland ponds on population dispersion and decline of locally adapted Mansonia vectors (Diptera: Culicidae)
Authors: Pimnon Suntorn , Bhumiratana Adisak , Intarapuk Apiradee , Ritthison Wanapa
Published: March 2024

Background and Objectives: The adaptive processes and resilience of Mansonia vectors responsible for bioindicators can change in response to climate, land use, and environmental changes. This study evaluated the effects of expanding farmlands with the domestication of animals in the vicinity of either disturbed swamps or built-up farmland ponds on the population dispersion and decline of locally adapted Mansonia faunas as a result of expanding farmlands in Thailand.

Materials and Methods: Based on environmental surveys, four different geographically defined study sites were selected: I - the expanding farmlands with domestication of livestock and pet animals in the vicinity of low-lying swamp with habitat fragmentation and aquatic vegetation; II - the expanding farmlands with domestication of pet animals in the vicinity of elevated swamp with habitat destruction and aquatic vegetation; III - the expanding farmlands with domestication of livestock and pet animals in the vicinity of low-lying farmland ponds with restoration and aquatic vegetation; and IV - the expanding farmlands with domestication of pet animals in the vicinity of elevated farmland ponds with restoration and aquatic vegetation. Human landing catch collection method was used to periodically assess the species composition and abundance of Mansonia vectors.

Results: Aggregated distributions and seasonal abundances of Mansonia faunas (Mansonia uniformis, Mansonia indiana, Mansonia annulifera, Mansonia annulata, Mansonia bonneae, and Mansonia dives) with variable proportions were observed at all the study sites. A decline in the population of Mansonia faunas, except for Ma. uniformis, was observed at study sites I and II.

Conclusion: The anticipated effects of expanding farmlands affected the population dispersion and decline of locally adapted Mansonia faunas, thus representing a diverse assemblage of Mansonia species with different adaptations, ecological tolerances, and host exploitation strategies in life. These effects depended either on the function of disturbed swamps or on the development of farmland ponds, whether they provided a wide range of freshwater habitats, or on the domestication of animals, whether they provided animal blood meal sources.

Keywords: built-up farmland ponds, disturbed swamps, expanding farmland, freshwater habitats, and animal blood meal sources, Mansonia fauna.
Antimicrobial effects of catnip (Nepeta cataria L.) essential oil against canine skin infection pathogens
Authors: Borlace Glenn Neville , Singh Ranee , Seubsasana Supawadee , Chantaranothai Pranom , Thongkham Eakachai , Aiemsaard Jareerat
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim: Catnip essential oils have antimicrobial effects against bacteria, yeast, and fungi; however, there is limited information regarding their antimicrobial activity against pathogens that cause canine skin infections. This study aimed to identify the phytochemical constituents of catnip essential oil and assay its antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus pseudintermedius, Malassezia pachydermatis, Microsporum canis, Microsporum gypseum, Microsporum gallinae, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes.

Materials and Methods: Catnip essential oil was extracted by hydrodistillation, and its chemical constituents were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). In vitro antimicrobial activity was investigated using broth microdilution and time-kill tests. To evaluate the effect of catnip essential oil on microbial morphology and cell membrane integrity, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and leakage studies were conducted.

Results: GC–MS analysis revealed that the principal components of catnip essential oil were cis- and trans-nepetalactone (57.09% of peak area), trans-, cis-nepetalactone (39.69% of peak area), trans-caryophyllene (1.88% of peak area), and caryophyllene oxide (1.34% of peak area). The minimum inhibitory concentration, minimum bactericidal concentration, and minimum fungicidal concentration values determined by broth microdilution ranged from 0.0625 mg/mL to 4.0 mg/ mL. Time-kill testing showed that the germicidal effects of catnip essential oil were time and concentration-dependent, respectively. Environmental SEM and cell leakage analysis indicated that catnip essential oil disrupted the integrity of cell membranes in the tested microorganisms.

Conclusion: Catnip essential oil has potential as an alternative antimicrobial against a wide range of canine skin infection pathogens, including S. pseudintermedius, M. pachydermatis, Mi. canis, Mi. gypseum, Mi. gallinae, and T. mentagrophytes.

Keywords: antimicrobial activity, canine dermatitis, catnip, Nepeta cataria.
Identification and Toxicity Profiling of Column Fractions of Ethanol Leaf Extract of Ziziphus mauritiana
Authors: Owolarafe Tajudeen Alowonle , Kailani Salawu
Published: March 2024

Different plants may contain varying amounts of phytochemicals and also different degrees of toxicity. This study aimed to evaluate the phytochemicals present in the most active column fraction of ethanol leaf extract of the Ziziphus mauritiana plant and their toxic effects using brine shrimp lethality assay and animal model. Crude ethanol extract was obtained by maceration while fraction was achieved using a column chromatography experiment. Toxicity was evaluated with brine shrimp lethality assay and albino rat’s models while characterization was achieved with liquid chromatography-mass spectrophotometry. Ziziphus mauritiana leaves revealed 42 fractions pooled into seven fractions. Fraction three (3) was the most toxic with the brine shrimp lethality assay of (31.48ug/ml) and its toxicological evaluation revealed an adverse effect on the hematological parameter, biochemical indices, and histo-architecture of the liver and kidney of the experimental model studied. LCMS analysis of the most toxic fraction revealed the presence of Antirrhinoside, Lucidumol A, Apigenin 7-glucuronide-4'-(6''-malonylglucoside), Dioscoreside C, Camellioside D, and others which have been reported for various pharmacological effects including adverse effects, The mode of toxicity may be synergistic, individual, or antagonistic which may explain the moderate toxicity observed in animal model. Administration of these fractions may lead to toxicity despite their potential.
Fatigue acts as a distractor in monotonous and dual attention tasks in patients with multiple sclerosis but not with long COVID
Authors: Hildebrandt H. , Hanken K. , Duning T. , Stuke H. , Eling P.
Published: March 2024

Hintergrund: Fatigue als Folge von COVID-19 Infektion ist zu einem erheblichen Problem geworden. Fatigue ist auch eine Folge der Multiplen Sklerose (MS), welche hier zu einer verminderten Lebensqualität und Frühverrentung führen kann. Auf der Grundlage unseres Modells der Fatigue postulierten wir, dass der Schweregrad der Ermüdung bei beiden Erkrankungen mit der Leistung bei monotonen Aufmerksamkeitsaufgaben und in einem der beiden Ströme einer Aufgabe mit geteilter Aufmerksamkeit zusammenhängt, nicht aber mit der Leistung in anderen kognitiven Aufgaben. Methode: In dieser retrospektiven Studie analysierten wir die Beziehung zwischen kognitiver Fatigue und neuropsychologischen Testergebnissen in zwei Patientengruppen (Long COVID: n=35; MS: n=50), wobei wir für depressive Verstimmungen kontrollierten. Es wurden alters-, geschlechts- und bildungskorrigierte Prozentränge für die Testleistungen verwendet, zunächst für beide Gruppen zusammen und dann für die beiden Gruppen getrennt. Ergebnisse: Die beiden Patientengruppen unterschieden sich nicht in Alter, Depressionswert und Schweregrad der Müdigkeit. Wie vorhergesagt, fanden wir einen Zusammenhang zwischen kognitiver Ermüdung und Reaktionszeiten in der monotonen Aufmerksamkeitsaufgabe und, zum ersten Mal, zwischen kognitiver Ermüdung und einem Stream des Tests zur geteilten Aufmerksamkeit. Eine Post-hoc-Analyse zeigte, dass diese Zusammenhänge in der LongCOVID-Gruppe nicht signifikant waren, wohl aber in der MS-Gruppe. Keines der anderen neuropsychologischen Testergebnisse korrelierte mit Fatigue. Schlussfolgerung: Kognitive Fatigue bei Patienten mit MS (und womöglich Long COVID) kann mit monotonen Tests oder einer Aufgabe zur geteilten Aufmerksamkeit objektiviert werden. Zukünftige Studien könnten die Prägnanz der beiden zu verarbeitenden Ströme in Aufgaben mit geteilter Aufmerksamkeit variieren, um ihre Sensitivität und Spezifität für die Messung kognitiver Fatigue zu erhöhen. Schlüsselwörter: kognitive Fatigue, Multiple Sklerosis, Long COVID, monotone Aufmerksamkeitsaufgabe, geteilte Aufmerksamkeitsaufgabe
PERANCANGAN SISTEM DETEKSI PELANGGARAN PENGGUNAAN HELM DENGAN METODE DEEP LEARNING MENGGUNAKAN YOLOV5 ULTRALYTIC
Authors: Batubara Zwingli Hilkia , Hamonangan Yosia , Arfan M. , Hidayatno Achmad
Published: March 2024

Penegakan aturan terkait penggunaan helm pada sepeda motor di lingkungan kampus menjadi upaya yang dilakukan untuk mengurangi dampak kecelakaan yang fatal, namun nyatanya masih banyak pengendara yang tidak sadar dan tidak taat akan hal ini. Pihak keamanan kampus yang terbatas dibanding dengan pelanggaran yang banyak terjadi telah menjadi keluhan dalam usaha menciptakan lingkungan kampus yaang aman. Meningkatnya teknologi machine learning yang semakin berkembang dan mudah diakses dapat diterapkan menjadi sistem deteksi pelanggaran dalam upaya membantu pihak keamanan dalam memonitoring keamanan berkendara. Sistem deteksi pelanggaran penggunaan helm dirancang menggunakan YOLOv5 Ultralytic dengan memanfaatkan metode deep learning yang didasari dengan algoritma convolutional neural network. YOLOv5 memberikan model dengan penekanan pada kecepatan inferensi yang baik, sehingga memungkinkan penggunaan dalam aplikasi real-time. Model akhir hasil training menggunakan yolov5 memiliki mean average precision (mAP) rata-rata sebesar 0,938 yang mengindikasikan model dapat melakukan deteksi objek dengan akurat dan konsisten. Model deteksi selanjutnya diintegrasikan menjadi sistem deteksi yang tersambung dengan database. Sistem deteksi ini akan menangkap dan mengirimkan gambar pelanggaran ke database. Hasil pengujian akhir sistem deteksi dengan melakukan evaluasi confusion matrix yang didapat menunjukkan akurasi sistem sebesar 98,5%. Gambar tersebut nantinya akan dimonitoring pada aplikasi android untuk membantu pihak keamanan dalam mengambil kebijakan yang tepat.
Developing Global Leader: The Key to Enhance Japanese University Studentsʼ Participation in Overseas Programmes
Authors: Ming Lau Chung
Published: March 2024

Prompted by a shortage of global talent, Japan is making efforts to nurture the necessary human resources. The role of any university education cannot be ignored; however, various hurdles associated with several training programmes must be overcome, in particular the implementation of overseas programmes. If any overseas programmes are able to execute successfully, they can provide significant contributions to developing global minds of university students. This study empirically examines the degree of Japanese university students’ participation in overseas training programmes with teaching staff as companions. A total of 91 students from a national university in Japan were asked to complete a questionnaire and an independent sample t-test was used for data analysis. This study’s findings suggest that female students and students who had experience abroad prefer to have a teaching staff companion during their participation in overseas programmes. Japanese universities should consider increasing their support by using teaching staff to enhance the development of global talent through overseas education programmes.
Hydrochemical Characterisation of Groundwaters in a Crystalline Basement Environment: The Case of Fractured Aquifers in the Poni Watershed in the South-West Region of Burkina Faso, West Africa
Authors: Hebie Adama , Kafando Sayoba , Nakolendousse Samuel
Published: March 2024

The Poni watershed is located in the south-west of Burkina Faso. Its geology is made up of fractured crystalline and crystallophyllian basement, where fractured aquifers are the most exploited for water needs. The aim of this study is to determine the physico-chemical characteristics of the groundwater in the fractured aquifers of the Poni watershed in order to gain a better understanding of the mineralisation processes and hydrochemical properties of the groundwater in these aquifers. To do this, approaches based on the determination of Calcite Saturation Indices (CSI) and Dolomite Saturation Indices (DSI), Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and hydrochemical properties show that the majority of groundwater in the basin is undersaturated with respect to carbonates (79.37%) and divided into three families in relation to circulation speed: very slow circulation water (20.63%), slow circulation water (55.56%) and fast circulation water (23.81%). The approaches also show that the mineralisation of groundwater in the basin is governed by the acid hydrolysis of minerals in the surrounding rocks, residence time and surface inputs.  They are characterised by calcic and magnesian bicarbonate facies (85.7%), calcic bicarbonate facies (6.35%), sodium and potassium bicarbonate facies (1.59%) and calcic and magnesian sulphate chlorides (6.35%).
Prior acute exercise restores postprandial fat oxidation in active cannabis users
Authors: Schubert Matthew M. , Terauds Samantha , Plant Maren , Handler Grace , Atkins Colin , Mendez Casandra
Published: March 2024

Data suggest cannabis users have similar or lower levels of blood lipids compared to nonusers. However, the extent to which cannabis users experience postprandial lipemia is not known. Eleven cannabis users and 11 nonusers completed either rest or 1 h of exercise at their ventilatory threshold the evening before a meal tolerance test (MTT). Substrate oxidation, blood pressure, and capillary blood were obtained before and every 30–60 min post‐meal for 3 h. Linear mixed models were utilized to examine differences in variables between groups, conditions, across time, and their interactions. Exercise led to increased fat oxidation post‐MTT (p < 0.05), with cannabis users exhibiting higher AUC compared to the control trial (p < 0.05). Exercise also caused significantly lower levels of triglycerides (p < 0.05). Metabolic flexibility was improved in cannabis users in the exercise trial only (p < 0.05). No effect of group, trial, or interactions were detected for other variables of interest (all p > 0.05). This study indicated that prior exercise improves lipid metabolism in cannabis users and nonusers after a high‐fat meal test. Cannabis users appear sensitive to the effects of exercise. Future studies should incorporate additional meals and variables related to cardiovascular health and metabolism.
Liouville type theorems involving fractional order systems
Authors: Liao Qiuping , Liu Zhao , Wang Xinyue
Published: March 2024

In this paper, let α be any real number between 0 and 2, we study the following semi-linear elliptic system involving the fractional Laplacian:

(

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$\begin{cases}{\left(-{\Delta}\right)}^{\alpha /2}u\left(x\right)=f\left(u\left(x\right),v\left(x\right)\right), x\in {\mathbb{R}}^{n},\quad \hfill \\ {\left(-{\Delta}\right)}^{\alpha /2}v\left(x\right)=g\left(u\left(x\right),v\left(x\right)\right), x\in {\mathbb{R}}^{n}.\quad \hfill \end{cases}$

Under nature structure conditions on f and g, we classify the positive solutions for the semi-linear elliptic system involving the fractional Laplacian by using the direct method of the moving spheres introducing by W. Chen, Y. Li, and R. Zhang (“A direct method of moving spheres on fractional order equations,” J. Funct. Anal., vol. 272, pp. 4131–4157, 2017). In the half space, we establish a Liouville type theorem without any assumption of integrability by combining the direct method of moving planes and moving spheres, which improves the result proved by W. Dai, Z. Liu, and G. Lu (“Liouville type theorems for PDE and IE systems involving fractional Laplacian on a half space,” Potential Anal., vol. 46, pp. 569–588, 2017).
Targeted ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry procedures for the diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism: validation through ERNDIM external quality assessment schemes
Authors: Oliva Clara , Arias Angela , Ruiz-Sala Pedro , Garcia-Villoria Judit , Carling Rachel , Bierau Jörgen , Ruijter George J. G. , Casado Mercedes , Ormazabal Aida , Artuch Rafael
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Early diagnosis of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) is crucial to ensure early detection of conditions which are treatable. This study reports on targeted metabolomic procedures for the diagnosis of IEM of amino acids, acylcarnitines, creatine/guanidinoacetate, purines/pyrimidines and oligosaccharides, and describes its validation through external quality assessment schemes (EQA).

Methods

Analysis was performed on a Waters ACQUITY UPLC H-class system coupled to a Waters Xevo triple-quadrupole (TQD) mass spectrometer, operating in both positive and negative electrospray ionization mode. Chromatographic separation was performed on a CORTECS C18 column (2.1 × 150, 1.6 µm). Data were collected by multiple reaction monitoring.

Results

The internal and EQA results were generally adequate, with a few exceptions. We calculated the relative measurement error (RME) and only a few metabolites displayed a RME higher than 30 % (asparagine and some acylcarnitine species). For oligosaccharides, semi-quantitative analysis of an educational panel clearly identified the 8 different diseases included.

Conclusions

Overall, we have validated our analytical system through an external quality control assessment. This validation will contribute to harmonization between laboratories, thus improving identification and management of patients with IEM.
Effect of surface roughness on the interface behavior of clayey soils
Authors: Kadhim Hala K. , Alyounis Mohamad
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the effect of surface roughness on the interface behavior between clayey soils and structural materials, aiming to determine the necessary parameters for soil-structural interaction. The research site, located in one of Iraq’s seismically active regions, was selected for its significance. Experimental measurements were conducted using the SRT-6210 Digital Surface Roughness Tester to assess the roughness characteristics of steel and concrete samples. Four distinct roughness parameters were measured, and their correlation with shear parameters was analyzed. The shear behavior of clay-steel and clay-concrete interfaces was successfully described using the average roughness parameter (Ra), which exhibited the strongest correlation with shear parameters. Direct shear box and interface shear box tests were employed to identify soil’s shear strength parameters and evaluate interface shear strength parameters. The experimental findings highlight the significant influence of surface roughness on the shear strength parameters of clay-steel and clay-concrete interfaces. The interface shear strength, friction angle, and adhesion exhibited an increasing trend with roughness. Notably, shear strength increased by approximately 29.76% when concrete sample roughness was below 20 μm and by 32.8% when steel sample roughness was below 30 μm. Moreover, increasing surface roughness improved the interface friction angle of clay-steel and clay-concrete samples by about 37.95 and 36.3%, respectively. Additionally, an increase in roughness led to a rise in the adhesion of concrete and steel samples by approximately 26.24 and 32%, respectively. These findings emphasize the significance of surface roughness in optimizing the interface behavior between clayey soils and structural materials. The results have important implications for enhancing the design and performance of soil-structural systems.
Placentophagia and birth-associated behaviours of the fulvous fruit bat (Rousettus leschenaultii) from the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Divakar Nithin , Deepak Kambrath , Ahirbudhnyan Mohankumar , Gautham Mini Sathyan Vishal , Balakrishnan Peroth
Published: March 2024

Placentophagia is a natural behaviour in mammals. Although placentophagia has been reported from 18 species of bats so far, the instance from the wild are infrequent. Rousettus leschenaultii is a widely distributed species across South and Southeast Asia, and is consistently described as a common species throughout its range. However, the ecology of this species is poorly known according to the latest IUCN assessment. Through this note, we provide the first recorded instance of placentophagia and birth-associated behaviours of this species in the wild.
The clinical value of the hepatic venous pressure gradient in patients undergoing hepatic resection for hepatocellular carcinoma with or without liver cirrhosis
Authors: Busch Felix , De Paepe Katja N. , Gibbs Paul , Allison Michael , Hoare Matthew , See Teik Choon
Published: March 2024

The role of hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement in risk stratification before liver resection is an ongoing area of debate. This study examines the impact of preoperative HVPG levels on overall survival (OS)/time to recurrence (TTR) and postoperative complications after hepatic resection of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Thirty-eight HCC patients undergoing HVPG measurement before liver resection at Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust between January 2014 and April 2022 were retrospectively analysed. Statistical analysis comprised univariable/multivariable Cox/logistic regression to identify risk factors of reduced OS/TTR or 90-day post-resection complications and Kaplan–Meier estimator, log-rank, chi-squared, Fisher's exact, and Mann–Whitney U test, or Student's t-test for survival/subgroup analysis. The median HPVG was 6 (range: 0–14) mmHg. The HVPG was an independent risk factor for poorer TTR in the overall cohort (cut-off: ≥7.5 mmHg (17.18/43.81 months; P = 0.009)). In the subgroup analysis of cirrhotic patients (N = 29 (76%)), HVPG was additionally an independent risk factor for lower OS (cut-off: ≥8.5 mmHg [44.39/76.84 months; P = 0.012]). The HVPG had no impact on OS/TTR in non-cirrhotic patients (N = 9 (24%)), nor was it associated with postoperative complications in any cohort. In conclusion, preoperative HVPG levels are useful predictors for TTR and OS in cirrhotic HCC patients undergoing hepatic resection.
Development and validation of a novel model to predict pulmonary embolism in cardiology suspected patients: A 10-year retrospective analysis
Authors: Ling Fang , Jianling Qiang , Maofeng Wang
Published: March 2024

As there are no predictive models for pulmonary embolism (PE) in patients with suspected PE at cardiology department. This study developed a predictive model for the probability of PE development in these patients. This retrospective analysis evaluated data from 995 patients with suspected PE at the cardiology department from January 2012 to December 2021. Patients were randomly divided into the training and validation cohorts (7:3 ratio). Using least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, optimal predictive features were selected, and the model was established using multivariate logistic regression. The features used in the final model included clinical and laboratory factors. A nomogram was developed, and its performance was assessed and validated by discrimination, calibration, and clinical utility. Our predictive model showed that six PE-associated variables (age, pulse, systolic pressure, syncope, D-dimer, and coronary heart disease). The area under the curve – receiver operating characteristic curves of the model were 0.721 and 0.709 (95% confidence interval: 0.676–0.766 and 0.633–0.784), respectively, in both cohorts. We also found good consistency between the predictions and real observations in both cohorts. In decision curve analysis, the numerical model had a good net clinical benefit. This novel model can predict the probability of PE development in patients with suspected PE at cardiology department.
Holographic communication using programmable coding metasurface
Authors: Zhang Fan , Wang Chaohui , Feng Weike , Liu Tong , Wang Zhengjie , Wang Yanzhao , Wang Mingzhao , Xu He-Xiu
Published: March 2024

With rapid development of holography, metasurface-based holographic communication scheme shows great potential in development of adaptive electromagnetic function. However, conventional passive metasurfaces are severely limited by poor reconfigurability, which makes it difficult to achieve wavefront manipulations in real time. Here, we propose a holographic communication strategy that on-demand target information is firstly acquired and encoded via a depth camera integrated with modified YOLOv5s target detection algorithm, then transmitted by software defined radio modules with long term evolution at 5 GHz, and finally reproduced in the form of holographic images by spin-decoupled programmable coding metasurfaces at 12 GHz after decoding through modified Gerchberg–Saxton algorithm. Experiments are conducted to demonstrate the brand-new concept of optical information conversion to electromagnetic one via above intelligent scheme. Our strategy may open a novel avenue toward applications of near-field communication based on adaptive variation of electric field patterns (i.e. holographic images).
Development and production of antibodies against gamma inactivated pathogenic bacterial spores
Authors: Polat Ilkay Goksu , Tazebay Uygar Halis , Akcael Esin
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Gram-positive sporulated bacilli can cause many different diseases and isolation from environmental samples is difficult. Therefore, the quick detection and diagnosis of these microorganisms have critical importance because of their potentially harmful situation. However, many accepted diagnostic methods exist, and future technology points to immunoassay systems. Immunological methods to detect biological microorganisms require antigen-specific high-affinity antibodies as key materials.

Methods

In this study, Bacillus anthracis (34F2 sterne) bacterium, which causes anthrax disease, was chosen as a model organism to develop antibodies against bacterial spores. The produced spores were inactivated with gamma irradiation, and the development of monoclonal antibodies against inactivated spores was performed using hybridoma technology. Also, the polyclonal antibody was successfully obtained by immunizing the rabbit. Indirect and sandwich ELISA tests were performed to determine the antigenic properties of inactivated spores and the specific affinity of the developed antibodies.

Results

The spores, inactivated with 15 kGy, have the best-preserved surface epitopic regions and were selected as immunogen. Developed monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies were shown that there was no cross-reaction with other Bacillus species. Also, it was demonstrated that these antibodies could detect inactivated spores at a concentration of 105 spores/mL in a sandwich ELISA assay.

Conclusions

These qualified antibodies obtained will be essential in developing antibody-based diagnostic systems for spore detection from various environmental samples. This study suggests that the inactivated spores are a decent immunogen for generation antibodies and may be a candidate component for live vaccine formulation.
A study of the effect of cerium ion doping concentration on the structural, electrical, and thermoelectric properties of CaMnO3 nanoparticles
Authors: Samimuthu Berbethmary , Manoranjitham Ramakrishnan , Mohan Konganapuram S. , Backiyalakshmi Nagaraj , Muthukrishnan Mahadevan
Published: March 2024

Universally, energy loss in the form of heat is predominant and this heat is irrecoverable waste heat that leads to global warming. Clean, green, eco-friendly, cost-effective, and renewable energy sources are the possible solutions for this energy crisis and global warming issues. Thermoelectric power generation is a promising technology by converting this irrecoverable waste heat directly into electricity without any greenhouse gas emission. Nanostructured CaMnO3 at various cerium concentrations have been successfully prepared by sol–gel hydrothermal method followed by annealing and sintering. Pure and doped samples were systematically characterized by DSC, powder XRD, RAMAN, SEM with EDAX and FTIR spectroscopy. Electrical and thermoelectrical measurements were carried out on the sintered pellets. The XRD analyses confirmed the formation of orthorhombic perovskite structure for all the samples and the average particle size lies in the range of 50–60 nm. FTIR analysis shows the presence of CaMnO3 nanoparticles without any impurities. The temperature dependence of physical properties was performed and analyzed between room temperature and 600 °C. Electrical resistivity strongly depends on the nature of substituent ions and negative values indicate that the electrons are major charge carriers. Large Seebeck coefficient value and high-power factor make Ca1−x
Ce
x
MnO3 an efficient thermoelectric material for energy storage applications.
Die Begrenztheit der Kreativität. Adam als Protomodell der Schöpfung bei Avitus von Vienne
Authors: Beier Julia Catharina
Published: March 2024

Die Figur des biblischen Adams als des ersten Menschen hat über die Jahrhunderte große Beachtung gefunden. Dieser Aufsatz untersucht die Rezeption der alttestamentlichen Sündenfallerzählung am Beispiel des Bibelepos De spiritalis historiae gestis des Avitus von Vienne. Der Fokus liegt hier auf der Begrenztheit des avitischen Adams, die sich durch die Ambivalenz der herausgehobenen Form der Schöpfung des Menschen als Ebenbild Gottes und der damit verbundenen Befähigung zur Kreativität einerseits und der gleichzeitigen Bestimmung Adams zum Fall andererseits ergibt.

Das Ziel des Aufsatzes besteht darin, am Beispiel Adams und Evas die Unterschiede zwischen der biblischen Erzählung und ihrer Rezeption in der Mehrzahl christlicher Schriften gegenüber derjenigen des Avitus und die Gegenwartsrelevanz des Epos vor dem Hintergrund geschlechtsspezifischer, dem Wandel unterworfener Rollenbilder zu zeigen.
Reimagining the Anthropocene in the Search for Human Security: Humans as Creating Creatures
Authors: Lautensach Sabina W.
Published: March 2024

The Anthropocene poses daunting challenges to humanity in the form of a polycrisis with diverse manifestations. Both the definition of the epoch and its challenges stem from our ecological overload and the domination over the biosphere by human endeavors. An organized transition to a sustainable future, as well as educational efforts to expedite it, will depend on the extent of human agency at the individual and collective levels. An analysis of precedents and current trends suggests poor chances for a successful transition out of the initial causation phase of the Anthropocene, despite our collective culpability. More likely are multiple transitions that take diverse regional approaches, with varying success rates. As human agency becomes increasingly constrained, hopes for creative solutions focus on local communities, positive deviants, and counterhegemonic education.
Theologische Deutungen von Ohnmachts- und Schulderfahrungen in der Klimakrise
Authors: Plüss David
Published: March 2024

Die Klimakrise fordert die gesamte Menschheit zur Umkehr heraus. Sie fordert auch die Religionen heraus, ihre Ressourcen zu mobilisieren, die zu einer Wende beitragen können. Ich gehe davon aus, dass dies nicht nur in Gestalt kirchlicher Stellungnahmen oder theologisch-ethischer Erörterungen, sondern auch und in besonderer Weise durch Gottesdienste – durch Gebete, Gesänge, Predigten – geschehen kann und geschehen soll. Der Beitrag zeigt am Fallbeispiel eines Fürbittegebets, welche semantischen und rhetorischen Strategien dafür angewendet werden und wagt ein durchaus vorläufiges Urteil in Bezug auf die Angemessenheit derselben.
Evaluating Screening to Assess Endorsement of Food Insecurity in the Inpatient Setting
Authors: Tepe Kerry A. , Auger Katherine A. , Rodas Marquez Sonia , Atarama Denise , Sauers-Ford Hadley S.
Published: March 2024

OBJECTIVE

Rates of food insecurity (FI) from screening in the inpatient setting is often not reflective of community prevalence, indicating that screening likely misses families with FI. We aimed to determine the combination of FI screening questions and methods that would result in identifying a percentage of FI families that matched or exceeded our area prevalence (approximately 20%).

METHODS

Research staff approached eligible English- and Spanish-speaking families across 4 inpatient units once weekly and screened for FI using a randomly selected method (face-to-face, phone, paper, and tablet). We asked questions from the 6-Item USDA Survey, Hunger Vital Sign screener, and questions utilized by our social workers.

RESULTS

We screened 361 families; 19.4% (N = 70) endorsed FI. Differences in rates were not significant by method. Differences in FI rates based on screening questions were: 17.7% for the 6-item USDA survey, 16.0% for Hunger Vital Sign, and 3.1% for the social work questions. When considering method and screening questions together, the 6-Item USDA on paper had the highest positivity rate of 20.9%. A higher percentage of Spanish-speaking families endorsed FI (61.1%) compared to 17.2% of English-speaking families (P < .01). Positivity also varied significantly by self-identified race (P < .01). Caregivers that identified as Hispanic or Latino were significantly more likely to endorse FI than those that did not (P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

The positivity rate for FI while screening inpatient families using the 6-Item screening questions on paper matched our community prevalence of FI (approximately 20%).
Long-term Ocular Outcomes in Congenital Toxoplasmosis Treated Perinatally
Authors: Journé Antoine , Garweg Justus , Ksiazek Eléa , Peyron François , Binquet Christine , Wallon Martine
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Congenital toxoplasmosis (CT) can be accompanied by serious organ manifestations, particularly retinochoroiditis, and may occur throughout life. We aimed to monitor long-term ocular prognosis in a large French cohort of patients with CT and its changes over time in the context of mandatory prenatal screening (since 1992) and incidence decrease since 2008.

METHODS

Patients with CT diagnosed between 1987 and 2021 were prospectively included and followed for up to 35 years. The effect of the period of conception on the risk of first retinochoroiditis has been tested using a flexible extension of the Cox model. Incidence rates of retinochoroiditis were estimated.

RESULTS

A total of 646 infected live born children were followed for a median of 12 years (range, 0.5–35); 187 patients (29%) had at least 1 ocular lesion (first at a median age of 5 years; range, 0–26 years) with peaks at 7 and 12 years. Early maternal infection and the presence of nonocular signs at birth were associated with a higher risk of retinochoroiditis, whereas delayed diagnosis of CT (after birth versus before or at birth) was associated with a lower risk (13% decrease for each additional month after birth; P = .01). A period effect for the risk of developing retinochoroiditis in patients born after 2008 was not detected.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite prenatal screening and prolonged perinatal treatment, retinochoroiditis is not a rare event in French patients with CT and can occur well into adulthood, with peak incidences at 7 and 12 years of age. It rarely causes severe damage but warrants regular follow-up into adulthood.
Effect of hypertension on muscle strength, balance, and mobility in older adults
Authors: Hajebrahimi Farzin , Tarakcı Devrim , Özbek Hanefi , Budak Miray , Algun Candan
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Hypertension (HT) can exacerbate impaired blood pressure regulation and thus increase the
risk of falls. The higher incidence of HT and impaired balance in older adults may lead to the hypothesis
of an association between HT and physical function in older individuals. The purpose of this study was to
investigate the effects of HT on muscle strength, balance, and mobility in older adults and the
relationship between them.
Methods: Sixty-one older adults were included in the study and individuals with systolic blood pressure
≥140 mmHg or diastolic blood pressure ≥90 mmHg formed the Hypertensive group (n=31), while the
others formed the Normotensive group (n=30). Quadriceps Femoris (QF) muscle strength was
evaluated with a hand-held dynamometer, mobility was evaluated with the Timed Up and Go Test (TUG),
balance performance was evaluated with the Nintendo Wii Fit Balance Board (NWBB), and physiological
age was evaluated with Wii Fit Age (WFA). The systolic and diastolic blood pressure were measured
before the balance test.
Results: TUG and NWBB scores between groups were significantly better in the Normotensive group
(p<0.05). In both Hypertensive and Normotensive groups, there was a negative correlation between QF
muscle strength and TUG score, and a positive correlation between QF muscle strength and NWBB
score (p<0.05).
Conclusion: HT may worsen mobility and balance in older adults. Further studies are required to better
understand HT and establish better appropriate interventions for older hypertensive adults.