bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The associations of risk of cardiovascular disease with development stages of diabetes in Chinese population: findings from a retrospective cohort study in QuZhou city
Authors: Wang Qi , Gan Zhijuan , Gao Qing , Wang Meng , Zhan Bingdong
Published: February 2024

Background

Risk analysis is an important area of research in diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD), both of which have significant global health burdens. Although there is evidence that patients with prediabetes and diabetes mellitus may have an increased risk of CVD, few studies have been conducted in mainland China.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized data from the Quzhou City Resident Health Information System and the Zhejiang Province Chronic Disease Surveillance System in China. Prediabetes and diabetes mellitus were the exposure interests, and the outcome event was defined as the onset of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease (including coronary heart disease and stroke). The start date of the study was January 1, 2015, and the follow-up deadline was December 31, 2020. Multivariate Cox proportional hazard model were used to assess the associations among prediabetes, diabetes, and CVD risk. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Our study used follow-up time as the time scale, while adjusting for age, sex, physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption, BMI in the models Sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the stability of the results, by excluding participants who smoked and drank alcohol, participants who developed CVD in the first year of follow-up.

Results

In total, 138,970 participants were included in our study, with a mean follow-up of 5.8 years. The mean age of the participants was 58.82 ± 14.44 years, with 42.79% (n = 59,466) males and 57.21% (n = 79,504) females. During the study period 4357 cases of CVD were recorded. Participants with prediabetes (P = 0.003) and diabetes (P < 0.001) had a higher risk of CVD than those who were Normal (HR [95% CI]: 1.14 [1.05–1.24]; 1.68 [1.55–1.81], respectively). Prediabetes and patients living with diabetes had a 14% and 68% increased risk of CVD, respectively. The results of the sensitivity analyses were consistent with those of the main analyses after excluding those who developed CVD within one year of follow-up and those who were concurrent smokers or alcohol drinkers.

Conclusions

Our research found that prediabetes is significantly associated with the risk of diabetes and CVD.
Extensive comparison of salivary collection, transportation, preparation, and storage methods: a systematic review
Authors: Mortazavi Hamed , Yousefi-Koma Amir-Ali , Yousefi-Koma Hannaneh
Published: February 2024

Background

Human saliva as a bodily fluid—similar to blood—is utilized for diagnostic purposes. Unlike blood sampling, collecting saliva is non-invasive, inexpensive, and readily accessible. There are no previously published systematic reviews regarding different collection, transportation, preparation, and storage methods for human saliva.

Design

This study has been prepared and organized according to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guidelines. This systematic review has been registered at PROSPERO (Registration ID: CRD42023415384). The study question according to the PICO format was as followed: Comparison of the performance (C) of different saliva sampling, handling, transportation, and storage techniques and methods (I) assessed for analyzing stimulated or unstimulated human saliva (P and O). An electronic search was executed in Scopus, Google Scholar, and PubMed.

Results

Twenty-three descriptive human clinical studies published between 1995 and 2022 were included. Eight categories of salivary features and biomarkers were investigated (i.e., salivary flow rate, total saliva quantity, total protein, cortisol, testosterone, DNA quality and quantity, pH and buffering pH). Twenty-two saliva sampling methods/devices were utilized. Passive drooling, Salivette®, and spitting were the most utilized methods. Sampling times with optimum capabilities for cortisol, iodine, and oral cancer metabolites are suggested to be 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM, 10:30 AM to 11:00 AM, and 14:00 PM to 20:00 PM, respectively. There were 6 storage methods. Centrifuging samples and storing them at -70 °C to -80 °C was the most utilized storage method. For DNA quantity and quality, analyzing samples immediately after collection without centrifuging or storage, outperformed centrifuging samples and storing them at -70 °C to -80 °C. Non-coated Salivette® was the most successful method/device for analyzing salivary flow rate.

Conclusion

It is highly suggested that scientists take aid from the reported categorized outcomes, and design their study questions based on the current voids for each method/device.
Exploring the potential link between MitoEVs and the immune microenvironment of periodontitis based on machine learning and bioinformatics methods
Authors: Yang Haoran , Zhao Anna , Chen Yuxiang , Cheng Tingting , Zhou Jianzhong , Li Ziliang
Published: February 2024

Background

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory condition triggered by immune system malfunction. Mitochondrial extracellular vesicles (MitoEVs) are a group of highly heterogeneous extracellular vesicles (EVs) enriched in mitochondrial fractions. The objective of this research was to examine the correlation between MitoEVs and the immune microenvironment of periodontitis.

Methods

Data from MitoCarta 3.0, GeneCards, and GEO databases were utilized to identify differentially expressed MitoEV-related genes (MERGs) and conduct functional enrichment and pathway analyses. The random forest and LASSO algorithms were employed to identify hub MERGs. Infiltration levels of immune cells in periodontitis and healthy groups were estimated using the CIBERSORT algorithm, and phenotypic subgroups of periodontitis based on hub MERG expression levels were explored using a consensus clustering method.

Results

A total of 44 differentially expressed MERGs were identified. The random forest and LASSO algorithms identified 9 hub MERGs (BCL2L11, GLDC, CYP24A1, COQ2, MTPAP, NIPSNAP3A, FAM162A, MYO19, and NDUFS1). ROC curve analysis showed that the hub gene and logistic regression model presented excellent diagnostic and discriminating abilities. Immune infiltration and consensus clustering analysis indicated that hub MERGs were highly correlated with various types of immune cells, and there were significant differences in immune cells and hub MERGs among different periodontitis subtypes.

Conclusion

The periodontitis classification model based on MERGs shows excellent performance and can offer novel perspectives into the pathogenesis of periodontitis. The high correlation between MERGs and various immune cells and the significant differences between immune cells and MERGs in different periodontitis subtypes can clarify the regulatory roles of MitoEVs in the immune microenvironment of periodontitis. Future research should focus on elucidating the functional mechanisms of hub MERGs and exploring potential therapeutic interventions based on these findings.
Potentially burdensome care at the end-of-life for cancer decedents: a retrospective population-wide study
Authors: Mitchell Rebecca J , Delaney Geoffrey P , Arnolda Gaston , Liauw Winston , Phillips Jane L , Lystad Reidar P , Harrison Reema , Braithwaite Jeffrey
Published: February 2024

Background

Variation persists in the quality of end-of-life-care (EOLC) for people with cancer. This study aims to describe the characteristics of, and examine factors associated with, indicators of potentially burdensome care provided in hospital, and use of hospital services in the last 12 months of life for people who had a death from cancer.

Method

A population-based retrospective cohort study of people aged ≥ 20 years who died with a cancer-related cause of death during 2014–2019 in New South Wales, Australia using linked hospital, cancer registry and mortality records. Ten indicators of potentially burdensome care were examined. Multinominal logistic regression examined predictors of a composite measure of potentially burdensome care, consisting of > 1 ED presentation or > 1 hospital admission or ≥ 1 ICU admission within 30 days of death, or died in acute care.

Results

Of the 80,005 cancer-related deaths, 86.9% were hospitalised in the 12 months prior to death. Fifteen percent had > 1 ED presentation, 9.9% had > 1 hospital admission, 8.6% spent ≥ 14 days in hospital, 3.6% had ≥ 1 intensive care unit admission, and 1.2% received mechanical ventilation on ≥ 1 occasion in the last 30 days of life. Seventeen percent died in acute care. The potentially burdensome care composite measure identified 20.0% had 1 indicator, and 10.9% had ≥ 2 indicators of potentially burdensome care. Compared to having no indicators of potentially burdensome care, people who smoked, lived in rural areas, were most socially economically disadvantaged, and had their last admission in a private hospital were more likely to experience potentially burdensome care. Older people (≥ 55 years), females, people with 1 or ≥ 2 Charlson comorbidities, people with neurological cancers, and people who died in 2018–2019 were less likely to experience potentially burdensome care. Compared to people with head and neck cancer, people with all cancer types (except breast and neurological) were more likely to experience ≥ 2 indicators of potentially burdensome care versus none.

Conclusion

This study shows the challenge of delivering health services at end-of-life. Opportunities to address potentially burdensome EOLC could involve taking a person-centric approach to integrate oncology and palliative care around individual needs and preferences.
Association between drinking water quality and mental health and the modifying role of diet: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Zhou Shuduo , Su Mintao , Shen Peng , Yang Zongming , Chai Pengfei , Sun Shengzhi , Lin Hongbo , Shui Liming , Zhang Na , Xu Ming , Zheng Zhi-Jie , Wang Jianbing , Zhang Zhenyu , Chen Kun
Published: February 2024

Background

Environmental factors play an important role in developing mental disorders. This study aimed to investigate the associations of metal and nonmetal elements in drinking water with the risk of depression and anxiety and to assess whether diets modulate these associations.

Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study including 24,285 participants free from depression and anxiety from the Yinzhou Cohort study in the 2016–2021 period. The exposures were measured by multiplying metal and nonmetal element concentrations in local pipeline terminal tap water samples and total daily drinking water intakes. Cox regression models adjusted for multi-level covariates were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs).

Results

During an average follow-up period of 4.72 and 4.68 years, 773 and 1334 cases of depression and anxiety were identified, respectively. A 1 standard deviation (SD) increase in manganese exposure reduced the incidence of depression by 8% (HR 0.92, 95%CI 0.88 to 0.97). In contrast, with a 1 SD increase in copper and cadmium exposure, the incidence of depression increased by 6% (HR 1.06, 95%CI 1.01 to 1.11) and 8% (HR 1.08, 95%CI 1.00 to 1.17), respectively. The incidence of anxiety increased by 39% (HR 1.39, 95%CI 1.20 to 1.62), 33% (HR 1.33, 95%CI 1.03 to 1.71), and 14% (HR 1.14, 95%CI 1.03 to 1.25) respectively for a 1 SD increase in manganese, iron, and selenium exposure. Diets have a moderating effect on the associations of metal and nonmetal elements with the risk of anxiety. Stronger associations were observed in older, low-income groups and low-education groups.

Conclusions

We found significant associations between exposure to metal and nonmetal elements and depression and anxiety. Diets regulated the associations to some extent.
From efficacy to effectiveness: a comprehensive framework for monitoring, evaluating and optimizing seasonal malaria chemoprevention programmes
Authors: de Cola Monica Anna , Chestnutt Elisabeth G. , Richardson Sol , Baudry Matthieu , Nnaji Chuks , Ibinaiye Taiwo , Moukénet Azoukalné , Rotimi Kunle , Sawadogo Benoît , Okafor Joshua , Compaoré Cheick Saïd , Oguoma Chibuzo , Rassi Christian , Roca-Feltrer Arantxa
Published: February 2024

Background

Seasonal Malaria Chemoprevention (SMC) is a highly effective intervention for preventing malaria, particularly in areas with highly seasonal transmission. Monitoring and evaluating (M&E) SMC programmes are complex due to the scale, time-sensitive delivery of the programme, and influence of external factors. This paper describes the process followed to develop a comprehensive M&E framework tailored specifically for the SMC context.

Methods

The Framework was developed through a literature and programme review, and stakeholder dialogues across three implementing countries—Burkina Faso, Chad, and Nigeria. Expert consultation further refined the Framework through an iterative approach drawing upon data collected through the three sources. The Framework was designed using the Logical Framework Approach incorporating external factors and intentionally aligned with global malaria M&E standards.

Results

An overall aim and seven programme objectives were developed measured by 70 indicators. The indicators also capture the causal links between the implementation and results of the programme. The Framework leverages the use of current data sources and existing mechanisms, ensuring efficient data use without requiring a significant increase in resources for overall programme optimization. It also promotes the use of data triangulation, and stratification for a more nuanced understanding of factors affecting programme performance and timely data informed decision-making.

Conclusions

The SMC M&E Framework presented here provides a standardized approach for programme implementers to enhance decision-making for optimal programme performance. This is an essential tool as the scope of SMC programmes expands to new geographies and target age groups.
Community-based mental health interventions in low- and middle-income countries: a qualitative study with international experts
Authors: Giebel Clarissa , Gabbay Mark , Shrestha Nipun , Saldarriaga Gabriel , Reilly Siobhan , White Ross , Liu Ginger , Allen Dawn , Zuluaga Maria Isabel
Published: February 2024

Background

Mental health services are scarce in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), and designing and implementing effective interventions can be difficult. The aim of this international study was to explore the key lessons for developing, implementing, and evaluating community-based mental health and well-being interventions in LMICs, with an additional focus on older adults.

Methods

Research and clinical experts in developing and implementing psychosocial community-based interventions in LMICs were interviewed remotely between October 2021 and January 2022. Participants were recruited via existing global health networks and via published literature searches. Participants were asked about their experiences of developing and implementing interventions, and about key barriers and facilitators during the process. Interviews lasted up to 45 min, and data were analysed using combined inductive and deductive thematic analysis.

Results

Sixteen global mental health experts participated. Five themes with different sub-themes were generated: Mechanisms and contexts; Barriers; Facilitators; Public and stakeholder involvement; Looking through an ageing lens. The development and delivery of mental health interventions in LMICs are facilitated through integration into existing health infrastructures and working with existing job roles as delivery agents. Public and stakeholder involvement are crucial at all stages of development through to implementation to focus on meeting local needs and sustaining participant motivation. Logistical barriers of transport, resources, and location need to be addressed, emphasising local sustainability.

Conclusions

This study provides important insights for how the development, implementation, and evaluation of community-based mental health and well-being interventions in LMICs can be optimised, and can complement general guidance into complex interventions developments.
Ten-eleven translocation-2-mediated macrophage activation promotes liver regeneration
Authors: Chen Yiyuan , Meng Lijun , Xu Nan , Chen Huan , Wei Xuyong , Lu Di , Wang Shuai , Xu Xiao
Published: February 2024

Background

The remarkable regenerative capacity of the liver enables recovery after radical Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) resection. After resection, macrophages secrete interleukin 6 and hepatocyte growth factors to promote liver regeneration. Ten-eleven translocation-2 (Tet2) DNA dioxygenase regulates pro-inflammatory factor secretion in macrophages. In this study, we explored the role of Tet2 in macrophages and its function independent of its enzymatic activity in liver regeneration.

Methods

The model of liver regeneration after 70% partial hepatectomy (PHx) is a classic universal model for studying reparative processes in the liver. Mice were euthanized at 0, 24, and 48 h after PHx. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, immunofluorescence analysis, and flow cytometry were performed to explore immune cell infiltration and liver regenerative capability. Molecular dynamics simulations were performed to study the interaction between Tet2 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (Stat1).

Results

Tet2 in macrophages negatively regulated liver regeneration in the partial hepatectomy mice model. Tet2 interacted with Stat1, inhibiting the expression of proinflammatory factors and suppressing liver regeneration. The Tet2 inhibitor attenuated the interaction between Stat1 and Tet2, enhanced Stat1 phosphorylation, and promoted hepatocyte proliferation. The proliferative function of the Tet2 inhibitor relied on macrophages and did not affect hepatocytes directly.

Conclusion

Our findings underscore that Tet2 in macrophages negatively regulates liver regeneration by interacting with Stat1. Targeting Tet2 in macrophages promotes liver regeneration and function after a hepatectomy, presenting a novel target to promote liver regeneration and function.

Graphical Abstract

Tet2 interacts with Stat1 in the cytoplasm and suppresses IFN-γ-induced macrophage activation. Tet2 inhibitor decreases the combination of Stat1 and Tet2, activating the macrophages through the Jak-Stat pathway. The activation of macrophages increases the transcription and translation of the IL-6 and promotes liver regeneration.
Women's voices and meanings of empowerment for reproductive decisions: a qualitative study in Mozambique
Authors: Castro Lopes Sofia , Constant Deborah , Fraga Sílvia , Harries Jane
Published: February 2024

Background

Women in Mozambique are often disempowered when it comes to making decisions concerning their lives, including their bodies and reproductive options. This study aimed to explore the views of women in Mozambique about key elements of empowerment for reproductive decisions and the meanings they attach to these elements.

Methods

Qualitative in-depth interviews were undertaken with 64 women of reproductive age (18–49 years) in two provinces in Mozambique. Participants were recruited through convenience sampling. Data collection took place between February and March 2020 in Maputo city and Province, and during August 2020 in Nampula Province. A thematic analysis was performed.

Results

Women described crucial elements of how power is exerted for reproductive choices. These choices include the ability to plan the number and timing of pregnancies and the ability either to negotiate with sexual partners by voicing choice and influencing decisions, or to exercise their right to make decisions independently. They considered that women with empowerment had characteristics such as independence, active participation and being free. These characteristics are recognized key enablers for the process of women’s empowerment.

Conclusions

This study’s findings contribute to an expanded conceptualization and operationalization of women’s sexual and reproductive empowerment by unveiling key elements that need to be considered in future research and approaches to women’s empowerment. Furthermore, it gave women the central role and voice in the research of empowerment's conceptualization and measurement where women’s views and meanings are seldom considered.
Accelerating drug development for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: construction and application of a disease course model using historical placebo group data
Authors: Cai Ruifen , Yang Juan , Wu Lijuan , Liu Yixiao , Wang Xinrui , Zheng Qingshan , Li Lujin
Published: February 2024

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an irreversible degenerative disease. Placebo-controlled randomized trials are currently the main trial design to assess the clinical efficacy of drugs for ALS treatment. The aim of this study was to establish models to quantitatively describe the course of ALS, explore influencing factors, and provide the necessary information for ALS drug development.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of PubMed and the Cochrane Library Central Register for placebo-controlled trials that evaluated treatments for ALS. From these trials, we extracted the clinical and demographic characteristics of participants in the placebo group, as well as outcome data, which encompassed overall survival (OS) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Functional Rating Scale (ALSFRS-R) scores, at various time points.

Results

In total, 47 studies involving 6118 participants were included. Disease duration and the proportion of patients receiving riluzole were identified as significant factors influencing OS in the placebo group. Specifically, the median OS was 35.5 months for a disease duration of 9 months, whereas it was 20.0 months for a disease duration of 36 months. Furthermore, for every 10% increase in the proportion of patients treated with riluzole (100 mg daily), there was an association with a median OS extension of approximately 0.4 months. The estimated time for the ALSFRS-R score in the placebo group to decrease to 50% of its maximum effect from baseline level was approximately 17.5 months, and the time to reach a plateau was about 40 months.

Conclusions

The established disease course model of the historical placebo group is valuable in the decision-making process for the clinical development of ALS drugs. It serves not only as an external control to evaluate the efficacy of the tested drug in single-arm trials but also as prior information that aids in accurately estimating the posterior distribution of the disease course in the placebo group during small-sample clinical trials.
Mapping the functional impact of non-coding regulatory elements in primary T cells through single-cell CRISPR screens
Authors: Alda-Catalinas Celia , Ibarra-Soria Ximena , Flouri Christina , Gordillo Jorge Esparza , Cousminer Diana , Hutchinson Anna , Sun Bin , Pembroke William , Ullrich Sebastian , Krejci Adam , Cortes Adrian , Acevedo Alison , Malla Sunir , Fishwick Carl , Drewes Gerard , Rapiteanu Radu
Published: February 2024

Background

Drug targets with genetic evidence are expected to increase clinical success by at least twofold. Yet, translating disease-associated genetic variants into functional knowledge remains a fundamental challenge of drug discovery. A key issue is that the vast majority of complex disease associations cannot be cleanly mapped to a gene. Immune disease-associated variants are enriched within regulatory elements found in T-cell-specific open chromatin regions.

Results

To identify genes and molecular programs modulated by these regulatory elements, we develop a CRISPRi-based single-cell functional screening approach in primary human T cells. Our pipeline enables the interrogation of transcriptomic changes induced by the perturbation of regulatory elements at scale. We first optimize an efficient CRISPRi protocol in primary CD4+ T cells via CROPseq vectors. Subsequently, we perform a screen targeting 45 non-coding regulatory elements and 35 transcription start sites and profile approximately 250,000 T -cell single-cell transcriptomes. We develop a bespoke analytical pipeline for element-to-gene (E2G) mapping and demonstrate that our method can identify both previously annotated and novel E2G links. Lastly, we integrate genetic association data for immune-related traits and demonstrate how our platform can aid in the identification of effector genes for GWAS loci.

Conclusions

We describe “primary T cell crisprQTL” — a scalable, single-cell functional genomics approach for mapping regulatory elements to genes in primary human T cells. We show how this framework can facilitate the interrogation of immune disease GWAS hits and propose that the combination of experimental and QTL-based techniques is likely to address the variant-to-function problem.
Evaluation of the efficacy of Simparica Trio® in the prevention of the transmission of Babesia canis by infected Dermacentor reticulatus to dogs
Authors: Borowski Stasia , Viljoen Alta , D’Hanis Lina , Mahabir Sean , Geurden Thomas
Published: February 2024

Background

Babesia canis is a clinically relevant vector-borne pathogen in dogs, and its presence is expanding. The efficacy of Simparica Trio® (Zoetis) in the prevention of B. canis transmission was evaluated at the minimum recommended label dose of 1.2 mg/kg sarolaner, 24 µg/kg moxidectin and 5 mg/kg pyrantel per kg bodyweight.

Methods

Twenty-four (24) dogs were randomly allocated to either a placebo-treated group or one of two treatment groups with Simparica Trio. Dogs were infested with B. canis-infected Dermacentor reticulatus ticks 21 or 28 days after treatment administration. Blood samples for antibody and DNA detection were collected from each dog prior to tick infestation until 28 days after infestation. A dog was defined as being B. canis positive if it tested positive by both an indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and PCR at any time during the study.

Results

No treatment-related adverse reactions were recorded during the study. All placebo-treated animals displayed clinical signs due to babesiosis and tested positive on both IFA and PCR. None of the Simparica Trio-treated animals displayed any clinical symptoms or tested positive, resulting in a 100% efficacy in the prevention of canine babesiosis (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions

A single treatment with Simparica Trio at the minimum recommended label dose of 1.2 mg/kg sarolaner, 24 µg/kg moxidectin and 5 mg/kg pyrantel per kg bodyweight prevents the transmission of B. canis by infected D. reticulatus to dogs for at least 28 days.

Graphical Abstract
Epigenetics of prenatal stress in humans: the current research landscape
Authors: Dieckmann Linda , Czamara Darina
Published: February 2024

Fetal exposure to prenatal stress can have significant consequences on short- and long-term health. Epigenetic mechanisms, especially DNA methylation (DNAm), are a possible process how these adverse environmental events could be biologically embedded. We evaluated candidate gene as well as epigenome-wide association studies associating prenatal stress and DNAm changes in peripheral tissues; however, most of these findings lack robust replication. Prenatal stress-associated epigenetic changes have also been linked to child health including internalizing problems, neurobehavioral outcomes and stress reactivity. Future studies should focus on refined measurement and definition of prenatal stress and its timing, ideally also incorporating genomic as well as longitudinal information. This will provide further opportunities to enhance our understanding of the biological embedding of prenatal stress exposure.
Effects of dialogic reading for comprehension (LuDiCa) on the social interaction of autistic adolescents and their peers
Authors: Guevara Victor Loyola de Souza , Coêlho Raquel Freire , Flores Eileen Pfeiffer
Published: February 2024

Background

In today’s contemporary world, relationships take a prominent role in the lives of adolescents. However, challenges related to mutual understanding and a lack of inclusive environments can often lead to autistic teens feeling excluded.

Objective

In order to assess the impact of naturalistic interventions on interpersonal relationships, we conducted an experimental test utilizing Dialogic Reading for Comprehension (LuDiCa) in online reading circles with groups comprising both autistic and neurotypical adolescents. Our focus was on exploring its relevance for enhancing social interaction, particularly in terms of conversational acts, sharing experiences, initiations, and questions.

Methods

Five autistic and five neurotypical students between 11 and 15 years old from a public school in Brasilia, Federal District, participated. We paired groups A and B (made up of trios of teenagers) and groups C and D (made up of pairs) in a multiple baseline design per reading group, in which all groups went through the baseline conditions (BL), intervention (LuDiCa) and maintenance.

Results

LuDiCa increased the frequency of conversational acts of both autistic participants and neurotypical peers. In addition, the intervention favored initiations, questions, and sharing experiences, through the shared activity of reading and talking about a work of fiction. Participants rated the intervention in relation to the platform, the book, the reading facilitator, and interaction with peers. We discuss the potential of the facilitator's role in favoring interactions and the potential of LuDiCa as a joint activity for the engagement of adolescents. We also include suggestions for future research focused on the online context and discuss some limitations of the LuDiCa intervention.

Conclusion

In summary, our study offers initial experimental evidence demonstrating the positive impact of LuDiCa on social interaction behaviors among both autistic and neurotypical adolescents within an inclusive setting.
Frequency-dependent elastic properties of fracture-induced VTI rocks in a fluid-saturated porous and microcracked background
Authors: Wang Wenhao , Li Shengqing , Guo Junxin , Zhang Chengsen , Duan Wenxing , Su Yuanda , Tang Xiao-Ming
Published: February 2024

Fractures are widely distributed underground. The stiffness matrix of fractured rocks has been extensively investigated in a fluid-saturated porous background medium. However, the existing stiffness models only incorporate the attenuation mechanism of wave-induced fluid flow (WIFF). For macroscopic fractures, the elastic scattering (ES) of fractures cannot be ignored. To alleviate this issue, a frequency-dependent stiffness matrix model is developed, including the mesoscopic WIFF between fractures and background (FB-WIFF), the microscopic squirt flow, and the macroscopic ES from the fractures. By combining the far-field scattered wavefields of normal incident P and SV waves with the linear slip theory, the dynamic full-stiffness matrices for fracture-induced effective vertically transversely isotropic rocks in a fluid-saturated porous and microcracked background are derived. Then, the P, SV, and SH-wave velocities and attenuation can be obtained through the Kelvin-Christoffel equation. The results indicate that the FB-WIFF mechanism significantly affects the velocities and attenuation of the P and SV waves but has almost no effect on the SH wave, whereas the squirt flow and ES mechanisms affect the velocities and attenuation of all the P, SV, and SH waves. For validation, the model is compared with existing models and previous experimental ultrasonic data.
Recovery during Successive 120-min Football Games: Results from the 120-min Placebo/Carbohydrate Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: ERMIDIS GEORGIOS , MOHR MAGNI , JAMURTAS ATHANASIOS Z. , DRAGANIDIS DIMITRIOS , POULIOS ATHANASIOS , PAPANIKOLAOU KONSTANTINOS , VIGH-LARSEN JEPPE F. , LOULES GEORGIOS , SOVATZIDIS APOSTOLOS , NAKOPOULOU THEOFANO , TSIMEAS PANAGIOTIS , DOUROUDOS IOANNIS I. , PAPADOPOULOS CONSTANTINOS , PAPADIMAS GIORGOS , ROSVOGLOU ANASTASIA , LIAKOU CHRISTINA , DELI CHARIKLIA K. , GEORGAKOULI KALLIOPI , CHATZINIKOLAOU ATHANASIOS , KRUSTRUP PETER , FATOUROS IOANNIS G.
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the recovery kinetics (i.e., time-dependent changes) of performance-related variables between two 120-min male football games performed 3 d apart with and without carbohydrate supplementation.

Methods

Twenty male players (20 ± 1 yr; body fat, 14.9% ± 5.1%; maximal oxygen consumption, 59.4 ± 3.7 mL·kg−1·min−1) participated in two 120-min football games (G1, G2) according to a randomized, two-trial, repeated-measures, crossover, double-blind design. Participants received carbohydrate/placebo supplements during recovery between games. Field activity was monitored during the games. Performance testing and blood sampling were performed before and at 90 and 120 min of each game. Muscle biopsies were collected at baseline and at 90 and 120 min of G1 and pre-G2.

Results

Compared with G1, G2 was associated with reduced total distance (10,870 vs 10,685 m during 90 min and 3327 vs 3089 m during extra 30 min;P= 0.007–0.038), average (6.7 vs 6.2 km/h during extra 30-min game-play;P= 0.007) and maximal speed (32.2 vs 30.2 km/h during 90 min and 29.0 vs 27.9 km/h during extra 30 min;P< 0.05), accelerations/decelerations (P< 0.05), and mean heart rate (P< 0.05). Repeated sprint ability (P< 0.001), jumping (P< 0.05), and strength (P< 0.001) performance were compromised before and during G2. Muscle glycogen was not restored at G2 baseline (P= 0.005). Extended game-play reduced lymphocyte, erythrocyte counts, hematocrit, hemoglobin, reduced glutathione (P< 0.05) and increased delayed onset of muscle soreness, creatine kinase activity, blood glycerol, ammonia, and protein carbonyls (P< 0.05) before and during G2. Pax7+(P= 0.004) and MyoD+cells (P= 0.019) increased at baseline G2. Carbohydrate supplementation restored performance and glycogen, reduced glycerol and delayed onset of muscle soreness responses, and increased leukocyte counts and Pax7+and MyoD+cells.

Conclusions

Results suggest that extended football games induce a prolonged recovery of performance, which may be facilitated by carbohydrate supplementation during a congested game fixture.
Fungi of the order Mucorales express a “sealing-only” tRNA ligase
Authors: Ahammed Khondakar Sayef , van Hoof Ambro
Published: February 2024

Some eukaryotic pre-tRNAs contain an intron that is removed by a dedicated set of enzymes. Intron-containing pre-tRNAs are cleaved by tRNA splicing endonuclease, followed by ligation of the two exons and release of the intron. Fungi use a “heal and seal” pathway that requires three distinct catalytic domains of the tRNA ligase enzyme, Trl1. In contrast, humans use a “direct ligation” pathway carried out by RTCB, an enzyme completely unrelated to Trl1. Because of these mechanistic differences, Trl1 has been proposed as a promising drug target for fungal infections. To validate Trl1 as a broad-spectrum drug target, we show that fungi from three different phyla contain Trl1 orthologs with all three domains. This includes the major invasive human fungal pathogens, and these proteins can each functionally replace yeast Trl1. In contrast, species from the order Mucorales, including the pathogensRhizopus arrhizusandMucor circinelloides, have an atypical Trl1 that contains the sealing domain but lacks both healing domains. Although these species contain fewer tRNA introns than other pathogenic fungi, they still require splicing to decode three of the 61 sense codons. These sealing-only Trl1 orthologs can functionally complement defects in the corresponding domain of yeast Trl1 and use a conserved catalytic lysine residue. We conclude that Mucorales use a sealing-only enzyme together with unidentified nonorthologous healing enzymes for their heal and seal pathway. This implies that drugs that target the sealing activity are more likely to be broader-spectrum antifungals than drugs that target the healing domains.
Tolerancja jako powinność społeczna
Authors: Łucyszyn CM Józef
Published: February 2024

Tolerance in a strict sense is a moral principle, a directive of conduct bringing order to social life. Ethical obligations of tolerance allow us to talk about the nature of obligation as a social duty ordering relations in communities. In the situation of modern migration processes and the dynamics of multiculturalism, the practice of tolerance is put to the test and is combined with the defence of one’s own identity. Moreover, in the face of the multiplicity of cultures, it requires defining the place of one’s own culture and its security. Experiencing dynamism is possible thanks to a frame of reference, which, in this situation, is a system of fixed values that define variability. In social relations, the practical application of tolerance is determined by three vectors which form specific axes of dynamic social processes: strong identity, openness and respect. It is necessary to talk about the defence and necessity of tolerance as a social duty, especially in situations of danger, disputes, conflicts and controversies, although it is sometimes treated instrumentally to justify the defence of one’s own interests, reasons or one’s own ideas about cultural and religious values. Despite the different criteria for defining tolerance, taking into account its nature as a social duty ensures its effectiveness.
Odpowiedzialność mediów
Authors: Ratajczak Magdalena
Published: February 2024

The aim of the article is to present the role of contemporary media in times of crises. The author presents reflections on the value of information, the journalistic profession, media education, intercultural competences and the importance of public media.
Europeizacja Szwajcarii vs. Helwetyzacja Unii Europejskiej. Szwajcaria jako laboratorium integracji?
Authors: Nitszke Agnieszka
Published: February 2024

Switzerland, although geographically located in the centre of Europe, is not a member of the European Union. The aim of the article is to examine the mutual influences between the Union and Switzerland, which can be categorised as the Europeanisation of Switzerland vs the Helvetisation of the Union. Are Europeanisation and Helvetisation separable processes, or is it possible to find a common denominator between them? The article will examine two hypotheses: H1: The level of Europeanisation of Switzerland is the same as that of the EU Member States; H2: When building its system, the EU is modelled on Swiss solutions. Are Europeanisation and Helvetisation separable processes, or is it possible to find a common denominator between them? The first part of the article outlines the terminological and theoretical issues necessary for further research. The terms ‘Europeanisation’ and ‘Helvetisation’ were presented and discussed. The following section presents the evolution of relations between Switzerland and the EU and their current standing, indicating the areas of mutual influence, as well as similarities and differences. The last part presents the conclusions of the study. The text was based on classical qualitative methods, primarily a critical analysis of the content of source materials and studies, as well as an institutional-legal and comparative method.
Dziedzictwo kulturowe Ukrainy w działaniach międzynarodowego centrum kultury w Krakowie – przegląd wydarzeń
Authors: Weżgowiec Barbara
Published: February 2024

In the article I present an overview of activities of the International Cultural Centre in Cracow dedicated to highlight the cultural heritage of Ukraine. These activities include exhibitions, conferences, and publications that help to spread knowledge about the history and identity of Ukraine. They also support the Polish-Ukrainian dialogue and neighbourly relations by showing a common but often difficult legacy or confronting various narrations of e.g. the meaning of borderlands or (the myth of) Galicia. All these events serve as a base to build the knowledge and awareness about Ukraine, which in turn will help to counter the Russian propaganda that describes Ukraine as a ‘history prank’, and to show solidarity with the nation in its fight for freedom. The events greatly fit into the mission of the International Cultural Centre in Cracow, that for many years has been working to popularise and protect the cultural heritage of (especially) Central and Eastern Europe.
Ise Jingū – miejsce kultu religijnego i dziedzictwo kultury rzemieślniczej Japonii
Authors: Kamińska Ewa
Published: February 2024

Shintō is considered the native Japanese religion, cultivated in Shintō shrines throughout Japan. The most important of them is Ise Jingū 伊勢神宮, which has a unique status that elevates it above all other shrines. This distinction happens due to its association to the goddess Amaterasu, from whom, according to records in Japanese chronicles, the Emperor of Japan descended. Despite the fictional nature of this record, Ise Jingū plays a special role in the consciousness of the Japanese. It serves not only as a place of religious worship, but also as an important cultural heritage strongly related to the formation of Japanese national and cultural identity. The article highlights selected aspects of the protection of this heritage, with a particular focus on the preservation of Japanese craft culture related to religious ceremonies and the rebuilding process of Ise Jingū, called Shikinen Sengū 式年遷宮, which is repeated every 20 years.
Ubuntu jako forma sprawiedliwości naprawczej w południowoafrykańskim wymiarze sprawiedliwości wobec nieletnich
Authors: Kościółek Jakub
Published: February 2024

The article aims to present the philosophy of Ubuntu as one of the forms of traditional justice for juveniles, complementary to the post-European forms of justice administration. The article shows how rooted in pre-colonial traditions, the methods of resolving disputes align with the paradigm of restorative justice, recognised as a modern approach to resolving conflicts arising from the delinquent behaviours of young people, popularised in Western criminology only since the second half of the 20th century. It points out the possibility of utilising this philosophy in combating juvenile delinquency and addressing social inequalities that may contribute to anti-social behaviours among minors. It also highlights the general role that the philosophy of Ubuntu played in reshaping social relations in South Africa after the fall of apartheid.
Enhancing Sustainable Concrete Investigating the Feasibility of POND ASH as a Partial Replacement for Fine Aggregate in GGBS-Based
Authors: Fasil T Shajeeh , Periyasamy L. , Seethapathi M. , Das K. Mohan
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: India uses more than 100 million cubic meters of concrete annually, making it the most common building material. It is common knowledge that traditional concrete constructed using compressive strength does not meet many functional requirements, including impermeability and frost resistance. By emitting a significant amount of CO2, the manufacture of Portland cement, a key component of concrete, has had disastrous effects on our ecosystem. When one tonne of cement materials is produced, one tonne of CO2 and other greenhouse gases are emitted. Additional cementitious materials must be used to efficiently substitute cement without compromising the required qualities of concrete. The samples were tested for durability properties like water and chloride permeability and mechanical properties for lengths of 7, 28, and 56 days. Mix M7 exhibits outstanding compressive strength progression, showcasing impressive results of 30.72 N/mm² at 14 days, followed by significant enhancement to 43.18 N/mm² at 28 days, and a robust 48.91 N/mm² at 56 days, making it a highly durable and high-performance concrete mix. In the study comparing the conventional mix and study mix (M1 to M8), the M7 mix exhibited a 28-day split tensile strength of 4.28 N/mm² and flexural strength of 9.657 N/mm². A significant amount of fly ash produced by the coal-based power station is recovered via huge ponds and dykes. It was revealed that 30% GGBS and 20% pond ash replacement of cement yielded the best results. According to research, there are industrial wastes that can replace up to 40% and 20% of the cement and fine aggregate in concrete by GGBS and Pond Ash, respectively.
Low Temperature Sintering of Porous Zeolite Spheres via Waste Glass Powder Addition
Authors: Kurt Ayse , Kalemtas Ayse
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: In this study, porous zeolite spheres were produced at a low temperature by a facile and economical method, sol-gel, using a natural zeolite from the Gördes region of Türkiye and waste soda glass powder. Waste glass powder was achieved by milling the recyclable waste soda glass bottles to be used as a source of silica. Elemental analysis of the waste glass was carried out by using X-ray fluorescence spectrometry. It was determined that Si (57.3 wt. %), Ca (20.9 wt. %), Na (13.9 wt. %), Mg (2.64 wt. %), and Al (1.64 wt. %) were the major constituents of the waste glass. Three different sphere compositions were designed containing 1:1, 3:2, and 7:3 zeolite:waste glass ratio. When the zeolite:waste glass ratio was 1:1 oval-shaped green spheres were achieved. For the compositions containing 3:2, and 7:3 zeolite:waste glass ratio spherical green samples were achieved. Prepared spheres were sintered at 300°, 400°, and 500°C for 1 h. It was observed that the samples could not maintain their spherical form when the sintering temperature was lower than 500°C. Scanning electron microscopy investigation of the spheres sintered at 500°C revealed that highly porous zeolite spheres, containing pores from ~20 µm to nanometre sizes, were achieved. Image J software was used to determine effect of composition on the size and size distribution of the sintered spheres.
Enhancing Sustainable Concrete Investigating the Feasibility of POND ASH as a Partial Replacement for Fine Aggregate in GGBS-Based
Authors: Fasil Shajeeh , Periyasamy L. , Seethapathi M. , Das K. Mohan
Published: February 2024

ABSTRACT: India uses more than 100 million cubic meters of concrete annually, making it the most common building material. It is common knowledge that traditional concrete constructed using compressive strength does not meet many functional requirements, including impermeability and frost resistance. By emitting a significant amount of CO2, the manufacture of Portland cement, a key component of concrete, has had disastrous effects on our ecosystem. When one tonne of cement materials is produced, one tonne of CO2 and other greenhouse gases are emitted. Additional cementitious materials must be used to efficiently substitute cement without compromising the required qualities of concrete. The samples were tested for durability properties like water and chloride permeability and mechanical properties for lengths of 7, 28, and 56 days. Mix M7 exhibits outstanding compressive strength progression, showcasing impressive results of 30.72 N/mm² at 14 days, followed by significant enhancement to 43.18 N/mm² at 28 days, and a robust 48.91 N/mm² at 56 days, making it a highly durable and high-performance concrete mix. In the study comparing the conventional mix and study mix (M1 to M8), the M7 mix exhibited a 28-day split tensile strength of 4.28 N/mm² and flexural strength of 9.657 N/mm². A significant amount of fly ash produced by the coal-based power station is recovered via huge ponds and dykes. It was revealed that 30% GGBS and 20% pond ash replacement of cement yielded the best results. According to research, there are industrial wastes that can replace up to 40% and 20% of the cement and fine aggregate in concrete by GGBS and Pond Ash, respectively.