bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ЗМІНИ ПОКАЗНИКІВ ЛІПІДНОГО ПРОФІЛЮ ТА АДИПОКІНІВ ЗАЛЕЖНО ВІД ПОЛІМОРФІЗМУ A1166C ГЕНА РЕЦЕПТОРА АНГІОТЕНЗИНУ II ПЕРШОГО ТИПУ ЯК ПРЕДИКТОРА РОЗВИТКУ АРТЕРІАЛЬНОЇ ГІПЕРТЕНЗІЇ
Authors: Гніздюх Р. В. , Шманько В. В. , Палиця Л. М.
Published: February 2024

Вступ. Як свідчать результати досліджень останніх років, генетичні фактори відіграють вагому роль у розвитку і перебігу артеріальної гіпертензії. Вивчення поліморфізму генів ренін-ангіотензин-альдостеронової системи є перспективним напрямком для оцінки взаємозв’язку спадковості, артеріальної гіпертензії та дисліпідемії.

Мета дослідження – дослідити показники ліпідного профілю та адипокінів залежно від поліморфізму А1166С гена рецептора ангіотензину II першого типу як предиктора розвитку артеріальної гіпертензії.

Методи дослідження. У дослідженні взяли участь 86 пацієнтів, хворих на артеріальну гіпертензію. Групу контролю становили 30 практично здорових осіб. Показники ліпідного обміну в сироватці крові хворих визначали за допомогою наборів “Lachema” на аналізаторі. Дослідження алельного поліморфізму А1166С гена рецептора ангіотензину II першого типу проводили методом полімеразної ланцюгової реакції з електрофоретичною детекцією результатів.

Результати й обговорення. Рівень загального холестерину в пацієнтів-носіїв генотипу CC виявився достовірно вищим на 49,9 % порівняно з носіями генотипу AA. Показники ліпопротеїнів низької щільності та ліпопротеїнів дуже низької щільності у носіїв генотипу CC були вищими в 1,4 і 3,2 раза, ніж у гомозигот за алелем A. Вміст тригліцеридів у сироватці крові виявився достовірно більшим у 2,48 раза у носіїв генотипу CC порівняно з хворими, які мали генотип AA. Значення ліпопротеїнів високої щільності були нижчими на 60,4 % у гомозигот за алелем C, ніж у хворих з генотипом AA. Для носіїв генотипу CC характерні достовірно вищі показники резистину, лептину й адипонектину порівняно з носіями генотипу AA, проте рівень греліну виявився нижчим у носіїв генотипу CC.

Висновки. Наявність генотипу CC гена рецептора ангіотензину II першого типу сприяє розвитку дисліпідемії. Наявність у пацієнтів з артеріальною гіпертензією алеля C гена ангіотензину II першого типу сприяє достовірному підвищенню показників сироваткових адипокінів та зниженню рівня греліну.
ВПЛИВ ІНОЗИТОЛУ НА РОЗВИТОК НІТРООСИДАТИВНОГО СТРЕСУ В ПЕЧІНЦІ ТА ШКІРІ ЩУРІВ РІЗНОЇ СТАТІ ЗІ СТЕАТОГЕПАТОЗОМ
Authors: Сопель О. В. , Денефіль О. В.
Published: February 2024

Вступ. Стеатогепатоз є однією з основних проблем сьогодення. До методів корекції ураження печінки належить використання препаратів інозитолу.

Мета дослідження – оцінити зміни вмісту нітрит-аніона в печінці та шкірі щурів різної статі зі стеатогепатозом і вплив препаратів інозитолу на нього.

Методи дослідження. Досліди виконано на 216 білих щурах різної статі, на момент виведення з експерименту їм було 7,5–8 місяців. Тварин поділили на дев’ять груп: 1-ша – контрольна; 2-га – міо-інозитол (МІ); 3-тя – D-chiro інозитол (DІ); 4-та – стеатогепатоз 2 місяці; 5-та – стеатогепатоз 2 місяці+МІ 2 місяці; 6-та – стеатогепатоз 2 місяці+DІ 2 місяці; 7-ма – стеатогепатоз 4 місяці; 8-ма – стеатогепатоз 4 місяці+МІ 2 останні місяці; 9-та – стеатогепатоз 4 місяці+DІ 2 останні місяці. Стеатогепатоз викликали, даючи тваринам замість пиття 20 % розчин фруктози (Фр): 2 місяці – в 4–6-й групах, 4 місяці – в 7–9-й. Інозитоли вводили інтрагастрально (МІ – 400 мг/кг маси, DI – 30 мг/кг маси) через 2 місяці від початку моделювання стеатогепатозу. В гомогенатах печінки і шкіри визначали вміст нітрит-аніона.

Результати й обговорення. У щурів-самиць 1-ї групи вміст нітрит-аніона в печінці був більшим на 45,1 % (p<0,001), а у шкірі – на 15,8 % (p<0,001). Міо-інозитол викликав достовірне його зростання в печінці самців на 12,4 % (p<0,001), а D-chiro інозитол – на 3,5 % (p<0,05). При введенні МІ чи DІ зберігався вищий показник у печінці та шкірі самиць. У щурів із стреатогепатозом відзначено його зростання в печінці, залежало воно від тривалості вживання Фр. У шкірі самиць виявлено таку ж закономірність. Дія Фр на печінку, порівняно зі шкірою, щодо вмісту нітрит-аніона була більшою. У печінці та шкірі самців відмічено вищий його рівень тільки через 2 місяці. Через 4 місяці значення у самців і самиць достовірно не відрізнялися в печінці, а у шкірі були більшими в самиць. Введення МІ чи DІ сприяло достовірному зменшенню вмісту нітрит-аніона в печінці та шкірі, але повернення до значень контролю спостерігали лише в шкірі самиць 5-ї і 6-ї груп. При припиненні вживання Фр DІ краще діяв на печінку самиць. У печінці та шкірі самців і самиць, яким продовжували давати Фр та одночасно вводили МІ чи DІ, відмічено достовірне зниження рівня нітрит-аніона. У шкірі самців 8-ї і 9-ї груп, порівняно з 5-ю та 6-ю, його вміст був меншим, а в самиць – більшим.

Висновки. Стеатогепатоз у печінці та шкірі щурів різної статі спричинює розвиток нітрооксидативного стресу. В печінці тварин він прямо залежить від тривалості вживання Фр, а в шкірі таку залежність спостерігають тільки в самиць, у самців він менший через 4 місяці пиття Фр. Міо-інозитол і D-chiro інозитол викликають зниження вмісту нітрит-аніона в печінці та шкірі щурів. При припиненні вживання фруктози міо-інозитол і D-chiro інозитол мають більш виражений вплив на печінку та шкіру самиць.
Failing to Make the Grade: Conventional Cardiac Allograft Rejection Grading Criteria Are Inadequate for Predicting Rejection Severity
Authors: Arabyarmohammadi Sara , Yuan Cai , Viswanathan Vidya Sankar , Lal Priti , Feldman Michael D. , Fu Pingfu , Margulies Kenneth B. , Madabhushi Anant , Peyster Eliot G.
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Cardiac allograft rejection is the leading cause of early graft failure and is a major focus of postheart transplant patient care. While histological grading of endomyocardial biopsy samples remains the diagnostic standard for acute rejection, this standard has limited diagnostic accuracy. Discordance between biopsy rejection grade and patient clinical trajectory frequently leads to both overtreatment of indolent processes and delayed treatment of aggressive ones, spurring the need to investigate the adequacy of the current histological criteria for assessing clinically important rejection outcomes.

METHODS:

N=2900 endomyocardial biopsy images were assigned a rejection grade label (high versus low grade) and a clinical trajectory label (evident versus silent rejection). Using an image analysis approach, n=370 quantitative morphology features describing the lymphocytes and stroma were extracted from each slide. Two models were constructed to compare the subset of features associated with rejection grades versus those associated with clinical trajectories. A proof-of-principle machine learning pipeline—the cardiac allograft rejection evaluator—was then developed to test the feasibility of identifying the clinical severity of a rejection event.

RESULTS:

The histopathologic findings associated with conventional rejection grades differ substantially from those associated with clinically evident allograft injury. Quantitative assessment of a small set of well-defined morphological features can be leveraged to more accurately reflect the severity of rejection compared with that achieved by the International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation grades.

CONCLUSIONS:

Conventional endomyocardial samples contain morphological information that enables accurate identification of clinically evident rejection events, and this information is incompletely captured by the current, guideline-endorsed, rejection grading criteria.
Five-Year Safety and Effectiveness of Paclitaxel Drug-Coated Balloons Alone or With Provisional Bare Metal Stenting for Real-World Femoropopliteal Lesions: IN.PACT Global Study Subgroup Analysis
Authors: Ansel Gary M. , Brodmann Marianne , Rocha-Singh Krishna J. , Menk Jeremiah S. , Zeller Thomas ,   for the IN.PACT Global Study Investigators
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

The treatment of complex infra-inguinal disease with drug-coated balloons (DCBs) is associated with a significant number of patients undergoing provisional stenting to treat a suboptimal result. To determine the potential long-term impact of DCB treatment with provisional bare metal stenting in complex lesions in real-world patients, a post hoc analysis was performed on data from the IN.PACT Global Study (The IN.PACT Global Clinical Study for the Treatment of Comprehensive Superficial Femoral and/or Popliteal Artery Lesions Using the IN.PACT Admiral Drug-Eluting Balloon). Five-year outcomes were compared between participants who were stented after DCB treatment versus those treated with DCB alone.

METHODS:

The IN.PACT Global Study enrolled 1535 participants with intermittent claudication and/or ischemic rest pain caused by femoropopliteal lesions; 1397 patients were included in this subgroup analysis (353 stented and 1044 nonstented). Effectiveness was assessed as freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization through 60 months. The primary safety composite end point was defined as freedom from device- and procedure-related death through 30 days, and freedom from major target limb amputation and clinically driven target vessel revascularization through 60 months.

RESULTS:

Lesions in the stented group were longer (15.37 versus 10.98 cm;
P
<0.001) and had more total occlusions (54.7% versus 28.6%;
P
<0.001) compared with the nonstented group. The 5-year Kaplan-Meier estimated freedom from clinically driven target lesion revascularization was similar between groups (66.8% stented versus 70.0% nonstented group, log-rank
P
=0.22). The safety composite end point was achieved in 64.5% stented versus 68.2% nonstented participants (log-rank
P
=0.19) as estimated by the Kaplan-Meier method. No significant difference was observed in the cumulative incidence of major adverse events (49.1% stented versus 45.0% nonstented; log-rank
P
=0.17), including all-cause death (19.6% stented versus 19.3% nonstented, log-rank
P
=0.99).

CONCLUSIONS:

In this real-world study, revascularization of complex femoropopliteal artery lesions with DCB angioplasty alone or DCB followed by provisional bare metal stenting in certain lesions achieved comparable long-term safety and clinical effectiveness.

REGISTRATION:

URL:
https://www.clinicaltrials.gov
; Unique identifier: NCT01609296.
Influences of Sintering Temperature and Pressure on Microstructure, Optical and Mechanical Properties of Hot-Pressing-Sintered Gd2O3–MgO Nanocomposites
Authors: Wu Nan , Hu Kai , Fu Zhongchao , Long Haibo , Hou Zhaoxia , Shao Cen , Liang Xiao , Ibrahim Ahmed A. , Umar Ahmad
Published: February 2024

Low temperature combined with high application pressure sintering technology is one of effective approaches to fabricate ceramics with fine microstructure. We reported that the Gd2O3–MgO nanocomposite ceramics were obtained by hot-pressing sintering using
nanopowders derived from sol–gel combustion method in this paper. The high optical transmittance (80.1%–83.5%) over 2-6 μm and the high values for Vickers hardness (11.1 ± 0.3 GPa) and bending strength (192.6 ± 8.1 MPa) were obtained by hot-pressing sintering
at low sintering temperature (1300 μC) and high application pressure (65 MPa).
Fiber Optic Sensor-Based Bearing Defect Detection and Its Usages in Computer Vision
Authors: Zhu Xiaojuan
Published: February 2024

This work focuses on the investigation of surface defects in small bearings. Based on the theory of rough surface scattering and the dual-beam ratio measurement method, fiber optic sensing technology is applied in identifying surface defects in bearings. To facilitate the extraction
of features for surface defects in bearings, a sensor probe fiber array with three concentric circles around the central emission is determined. A reflective intensity-modulated fiber optic sensor (FOS) is employed to detect surface defects on bearings. The structural parameters of the FOS
are simulated through Matlab, considering the inner/outer diameter, numerical aperture, and axial spacing of the sensor. This work involves designing modulation light source excitation circuits, photoelectric conversion module circuits, pre-amplification differential amplifier circuits, infinite
gain bandpass filtering circuits, and window function comparison circuits. This effectively amplifies the defect feature signals and eliminates noise interference. In experiments, the sensor probe is fixed on the support of a micro-displacement measurement platform. By adjusting the distance
between the probe and the side surface through rotation, initial tests are conducted using standard roughness samples. The results indicate that installing the sensor probe at a distance of 0.92 mm from the side surface provides better measurement of surface roughness. The oscilloscope waveform
reveals that the FOS can identify defects on different bearing surfaces. Furthermore, the bearing surface is divided into sections with engraved text (seal cover part) and without engraved text (inner and outer rings of the bearing). Using computer vision (CV) technology, a FOS detection system
is designed, achieving a defect recognition rate of 99% for bearings, in line with the intended design goals.
NiCo2S4 Nanoflowers for Exceptional Electrochemical Supercapacitor Energy Storage Performances
Authors: Wang Shijun , Cao Yi , Tian Yunfei , Yang Jing , Wang Xing
Published: February 2024

The increasing demand for efficient and high-performance energy storage systems has prompted extensive research into advanced materials for electrochemical supercapacitors. Among these materials, NiCo2S4 nanoflowers have emerged as promising candidates, demonstrating
remarkable electrochemical properties. A simple solvothermal method was employed to prepare NiCo2S4 nanoflowers with excellent morphology, showcasing a well-organized, dispersed, and well-developed structure. Purity, high crystal structure, and oxidation state were confirmed
through XRD and XPS analyses, respectively. SEM analysis validated the morphology of both nanoflowers and nanoarrays, revealing a uniform and well-developed structure. The unique morphology plays a vital role in achieving excellent capacitance by providing a high surface area, maximizing the
involvement of active metals, and reducing diffusion kinetics. The nanoflowers exhibited an outstanding capacitance of 877 F g−1, at a current density of 2 A g−1. Leveraging the synergistic chemistry of Ni and Co, the material not only demonstrated outstanding
capacitance but also exhibited excellent stability of more than 91%, even after 5000 cycles. NiCo2S4 nanoflowers demonstrated an excellent energy density of 22 WhKg−1 and power density of 158 WKg−1. The excellent performances of NCS nanoflowers
recommend it as a favorable pseudocapacitive nanomaterials for excellent energy storage applications.
Reactive Crystallization Kinetics Study of Boehmite in Ammonia Solution by Adding Ammonium Aluminum Sulfate
Authors: Wang Junkai , Li Laishi , Wang Yuzheng , Wu Yusheng
Published: February 2024

As an important intermediate product in new techniques for extracting alumina from coal fly ash, boehmite is obtained by the reaction between ammonium aluminum sulfate and ammonia. The reactive crystallization kinetics of boehmite is investigated using a continuous steady-state method.
The Mydlarz and Jones (MJ3) models are in considerable agreement with the experimental results by a non-linear regression method; furthermore, crystal nucleation and growth rate equations are proposed. The results revealed that the suspension density and agitation rates present considerable
influence on nucleation. Additionally, high levels of supersaturation are not conducive for crystal growth, and the supersaturation index for crystal growth was small due to its poor water solubility. Moreover, the maximum d0.5 (average particle size) was 27.968 μm under
the agitation condition and the feed rates of 250 r/s and 0.5 g/10 min. Fast crystal growth speed is associated with the crystal structure’s high AlO6-unit and bulk-oxygen content. Our study on crystal nucleation and growth kinetics will be beneficial to the industrial production
of boehmite.
Co-Localized Infrared–Raman Spectroscopy: An Innovative Approach for the Quantitative In Situ Analysis of Gas Mixtures at High Pressures
Authors: Boé Grégoire , Bruneel Jean-Luc , Tassaing Thierry
Published: February 2024

This article spotlights the interest in using co-localized infrared (IR)–Raman spectroscopy as an innovative approach for the in situ monitoring of complex gas mixtures, e.g., hydrogen (H2), nitrogen (N2), carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), and methane (CH4), at elevated pressures. Thus, by combining the IR and Raman spectra of CH4, we proposed a new methodology for the calibration of the Raman spectra to circumvent the fact that Raman intensities are arbitrary (laser power, instrument response, integration time, and fluorescence). Applying our methodology to scale several consecutive experiments, the concentrations of all gases were determined with a relative uncertainty lower than 10%. These original results highlight the interest in co-localized IR–Raman spectroscopy analysis in a single cell for the quantitative analysis of solutes by Raman spectroscopy without the use of an internal standard.
Transformational leadership and public employee performance: The mediating roles of employee participation and public service motivation
Authors: Tran Yen Thi , Hoang Trang Cam
Published: February 2024

Despite the growing attention given to the connection between transformational leadership (TL) and job performance (JP), the precise mechanisms driving this association remain inadequately understood. This research delves into diverse causal factors that elucidate the TL–JP relationship. Drawing upon both TL theory and self-determination theory, the study explores the mediating role of employee participation in developing performance measures (PM participation) and public service motivation in the TL–JP relationship. The survey encompassed 208 pairs of employees and their direct managers operating in 208 different public organizations in Vietnam. Employing partial least square regression, the study validates that PM participation and public service motivation partly mediate the TL–JP relationship. The findings furnish valuable insights for managers seeking to enhance the performance of public employees in Vietnam and within emerging economies characterized by comparable structures.

Points for Practitioners

This study advocates for public sector leaders to adopt a transformational leadership approach. It emphasizes the importance of encouraging employee participation in the design, implementation and improvement of performance measures. Such engagement is anticipated to boost public service motivation, subsequently contributing to increased work efficiency among employees.
Predicting Future Recidivism From Changes in School Grades and Moral Agency
Authors: Walters Glenn D.
Published: February 2024

The purpose of this study was to determine whether a change in school grades could serve as a turning point for delinquency, and whether it did so by forming a reciprocal relationship with a change in moral agency. Separate samples of 3,558 (2,829 males, 729 females) and 3,559 (2,811 males, 748 females) low-to-moderate risk justice-involved youth from the same data set served as participants in this study. Cross-lagging school grades and moral agency, while controlling for prior levels of all predictor and outcome variables, two four-variable pathways were tested (grades → moral agency → grades → recidivism; moral agency → grades → moral agency → recidivism). There were significant indirect effects in both pathways across samples, although none of the four direct effects were significant. These findings support the notion that small changes in behavior (grades) and cognition (moral agency) produce a chain reaction capable of predicting desistance from crime.
Safety and feasibility of transbronchial microwave ablation for subpleural lung nodules
Authors: Chang Aliss Tsz Ching , Chan Joyce Wing Yan , Siu Ivan Chi Hin , Lau Rainbow Wing Hung , Ng Calvin Sze Hang
Published: February 2024

Background

Transbronchial microwave ablation in treating lung nodules is gaining popularity. However, microwave ablation in subpleural lung nodules raised concerns about pleural-based complications due to the proximity between the pleura and the ablation zone.

Methods

Patients who underwent transbronchial microwave ablation between March 2019 and November 2022 were included in this analysis. The lung nodules were categorized into the subpleural group—less than 5 mm distance to the nearest pleural surface; the deep nodule group—larger or equal to 5 mm distance to the nearest pleural surface. A review of the safety profile of subpleural lung nodule ablation was conducted.

Results

Eighty-two lung nodules ( n = 82) from 77 patients were treated. The mean nodule size was 14.2 ± 5.50 mm. The technical success rate was 100%. The mean procedural time was 133 min. No statistically significant differences were detected in the complication rate and the length of stay between the subpleural and deep nodule groups. Complications occured in 21 nodules (25.6%). No minor pneumothorax was reported. Total five cases of pneumothorax required drainage were observed (6.06% in subpleural nodules [ n = 2] vs. 6.12% in deep nodules [ n = 3], p = 0.991). Total seven cases of pleuritic chest pain were observed (12.1% in subpleural nodules [ n = 4] vs. 6.12% in deep nodules [ n = 3], p = 0.340).

Conclusions

This single-center retrospective analysis found no significant difference in the safety outcomes between subpleural and nonsubpleural lung nodule ablation. The overall rate of complications was low in the cohort. This demonstrated that transbronchial microwave was feasible and safe for most lung nodules.
Wrong suffix: Gifted education for career choice should focus on “Gifting” rather than on being “Gifted”
Authors: Sternberg Robert J
Published: February 2024

Gifted education should focus on gifting rather than on being gifted. That is, it should focus on what one offers from one’s gifts, not just on what gifts a person has, one way or another, accumulated. Gifted individuals should consider choosing careers that are a good fit to them, that enable them to give back, and that give them a sense of meaning in their life. They should be ready to move on if their career choice proves to be mistaken, or no longer to be a fit. They should avoid temptations brought on by outside pressures to choose careers that may be much less than fulfilling. In the end, what matters most is one’s passion and motivation for a career rather than grades, test scores, or external pressures.
Development of a Predictive Model for the Indirect Tensile Strength Load–Displacement Curve for Asphalt Mixtures
Authors: Abu Saq Mohammed , Kassem Emad
Published: February 2024

The indirect tensile (IDT) strength test is one of the common laboratory tests conducted to characterize asphalt mixtures. The IDT load–displacement curve is used to calculate various indicators to evaluate the cracking performance of asphalt mixtures. This study evaluated the effect of the mix composition on the IDT load–displacement curve. Asphalt mixtures with different characteristics, including binder content, binder grade, and mix gradation, were prepared and tested. The study developed statistical regression models to predict the entire IDT load–displacement curve using parameters that describe the mix composition and properties, including the binder complex shear modulus and phase angle, aggregate gradation, and binder content. The results demonstrated that the predicted model parameters were found to correlate well with those calculated from the experimental IDT load–displacement curves. All predicted cracking performance indicators calculated from the predicted IDT load–displacement curve had a strong correlation with those calculated from the measured IDT load–displacement curve. The proposed model can be used as a tool to check the preliminary cracking performance of the asphalt mixtures during the mix design stage. In addition, the mix composition can be adjusted to improve the cracking performance of the designed mix (e.g., adjust binder grade, binder content, gradation, etc.).
Design and study of biomimetic resin matrix composites based on shellfish structure
Authors: Chen Kunzhi , Wang Yuanyuan , Tuo Zhiwei , Cui Jiandong , Zhang Yuyu , Lin Zhaohua , Liang Yunhong
Published: February 2024

Differences in microstructure can often lead to large differences in mechanical properties. Here, the composition, microstructure, and mechanical properties of mussel, scallop, and ostreidae were researched. And subsequently, three bionic models were designed based on the microstructures of the three shellfish. Three models were prepared by printing the substrate with light-cured resin and filling with carbon fiber reinforced epoxy resin. The mechanical properties and reinforcement mechanisms of the three models were also investigated. The bending fracture force, compression fracture, and the impact fracture energy of mussels was best of three shellfish. The bionic model 1 with mimic mussel structure has good mechanical properties. Bending strength of model 1 is 42.80 ± 7.00 MPa which was 5.42% higher than bionic model 2 and bionic model 3, and 33.75% higher than that of the pure epoxy resin (32.00 MPa). The absorbed energy of the model 1 is 63.53 ± 2.56%, which is 3.82% and 7.89% higher than model 2 and model 3, respectively. The fracture showed obvious toughness fracture. The unique crack deflection induced by the structure also leads to enhanced mechanical properties. This study provides new design ideas and references for the structural design of high-strength composites.
Actuation selection for multi-loop coupling mechanisms using geometric algebra
Authors: Chai Xinxue , Xiao Yu , Li Qinchuan , Xu Lingmin
Published: February 2024

Multi-loop coupling mechanisms (MCMs) have been widely used in architectural design antennas and space-deployable. This paper proposes a general method for actuation selection of MCMs using geometric algebra. The constraint space is obtained by collineation and dual operators of twist space. This method determines additional constraints by analyzing the linear correlation between the constrained spaces of the two limbs within the closed-loop and making corrections to the constraint space of the basic limb. Through outer and dual operators, the input screw corresponding to the transmission wrench screw and output twist screw are obtained. The input transmission index (ITI) and output transmission index (OTI) corresponding to this input are calculated, which leads to generation of a local transmission index (LTI). The actuation selection with the best performance can be obtained by comparing and analyzing the motion/force transfer performance of all input combinations. The proposed method has the advantages of simple computation and clear physical significance, and three typical MCMs are applied to validate this method. Finally, an experimental analysis compared the power consumption of a test motor at different actuation positions, further proving the accuracy of the method.
A literature review of the role played by social educators in the Spanish schooling system
Authors: Díez-Gutiérrez Enrique-Javier , Palomo-Cermeño Eva
Published: February 2024

In Spain social education professionals have been incorporated progressively into the educational system in certain Autonomous Communities. The necessity to integrate these professionals is the object of analysis in this work. For this purpose, a systematic literature review (SLR) of fifty-six articles published in open access from January 2000 to August 2020 has been conducted in the databases Scopus, Dialnet, Web of Science, Redalyc and Scielo. The extended criteria of the University of York were used as a validation tool. The findings reflect that the role of social education professionals is essential from the approach of an inclusive and comprehensive education in the educational system. It is clear that in a changing society the interaction of the school with its social environment is increasingly decisive in the development and training of students. Thus, the conclusions and discussion show that the social educator's role and tasks are fundamental and that it would be necessary to integrate them in all schools. As the law enacted in 2021 -Organic Law for the comprehensive protection of children and adolescents against violence- proposes, it is key to incorporate the figure of a welfare and protection coordinator in all schools.
Magnaporthe oryzae effector AvrPik-D targets a transcription factor WG7 to suppress rice immunity
Authors: Yang Tao , Song Linlin , Hu Jinxian , Qiao Luao , Yu Qing , Wang Zonghua , Chen Xiaofeng , Lu Guo-dong
Published: February 2024

Rice blast, caused by the fungal pathogen Magnaporthe oryzae, is one of the most devastating diseases for rice crops, significantly affecting crop yield and quality. During the infection process, M. oryzae secretes effector proteins that help in hijacking the host's immune responses to establish infection. However, little is known about the interaction between the effector protein AvrPik-D and the host protein Pikh, and how AvrPik-D increases disease severity to promote infection. In this study, we show that the M. oryzae effector AvrPik-D interacts with the zinc finger-type transcription factor WG7 in the nucleus and promotes its transcriptional activity. Genetic removal (knockout) of the gene WG7 in transgenic rice enhances resistance to M. oryzae and also results in an increased burst of reactive oxygen species after treatments with chitin. In addition, the hormone level of SA and JA, is increased and decreased respectively in WG7 KO plants, indicating that WG7 may negatively mediate resistance through salicylic acid pathway. Conversely, WG7 overexpression lines reduce resistance to M. oryzae. However, WG7 is not required for the Pikh-mediated resistance against rice blast. In conclusion, our results revealed that the M. oryzae effector AvrPik-D targets and promotes transcriptional activity of WG7 to suppress rice innate immunity to facilitate infection.
Insights from Melipona bicolor hybrid genome assembly: a stingless bee genome with chromosome-level scaffold
Authors: Araujo Natalia de Souza , Ogihara Fernando , Martins Pedro Mariano , Arias Maria Cristina
Published: February 2024

Background

The highly eusocial stingless bees are crucial pollinators of native and agricultural ecosystems. Nevertheless, genomic studies within this bee tribe remain scarce. We present the genome assembly of the stingless beeMelipona bicolor. This bee is a remarkable exception to the typical single-queen colony structure, since in this species, multiple queens may coexist and share reproductive duties, resulting in genetically diverse colonies with weak kinship connections. As the only known genuinely polygynous bee,M. bicolor’s genome provides a valuable resource for investigating sociality beyond kin selection.

Results

The genome was assembled employing a hybrid approach combining short and long reads, resulting in 241 contigs spanning 259 Mb (N50 of 6.2 Mb and 97.5% complete BUSCOs). Comparative analyses shed light on some evolutionary aspects of stingless bee genomics, including multiple chromosomal rearrangements inMelipona. Additionally, we explored the evolution of venom genes inM. bicolorand other stingless bees, revealing that, apart from two genes, the conserved repertoire of venom components remains under purifying selection in this clade.

Conclusion

This study advances our understanding of stingless bee genomics, contributing to the conservation efforts of these vital pollinators and offering insights into the evolutionary mechanisms driving their unique adaptations.
Multimodal evaluation of the effects of low-intensity ultrasound on cerebral blood flow after traumatic brain injury in mice
Authors: Yi Huiling , Wu Shuo , Wang Xiaohan , Liu Lanxiang , Wang Wenzhu , Yu Yan , Li Zihan , Jin Yinglan , Liu Jian , Zheng Tao , Du Dan
Published: February 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the leading causes of death and disability worldwide, and destruction of the cerebrovascular system is a major factor in the cascade of secondary injuries caused by TBI. Laser speckle imaging (LSCI)has high sensitivity in detecting cerebral blood flow. LSCI can visually show that transcranial focused ultrasound stimulation (tFUS) treatment stimulates angiogenesis and increases blood flow. To study the effect of tFUS on promoting angiogenesis in Controlled Cortical impact (CCI) model. tFUS was administered daily for 10 min and for 14 consecutive days after TBI. Cerebral blood flow was measured by LSCI at 1, 3, 7 and 14 days after trauma. Functional outcomes were assessed using LSCI and neurological severity score (NSS). After the last test, Nissl staining and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were used to assess neuropathology. TBI can cause the destruction of cerebrovascular system. Blood flow was significantly increased in TBI treated with tFUS. LSCI, behavioral and histological findings suggest that tFUS treatment can promote angiogenesis after TBI.
Prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility test and associated factors of Salmonella and Shigella in ready-to-eat fruit juices and salads in Mekelle, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Berihu Tesfay , Gebremariam Guesh , Weldu Yemane , Kahsay Amlsha , Asmelash Tsehaye , Gebreyesus Araya
Published: February 2024

Background

Food borne diseases is a challenging problem nowadays. Salmonella and Shigella species are great concern of food-born outbreaks. Thus, this study was aimed to assess the prevalence, antimicrobial susceptibility test and associated factors of Salmonella and Shigella species in fruit juices and salads.

Methods

A community based cross sectional study design was carried out on 50 juice houses from December to March 2020 in Mekelle. One hundred fifty samples were collected aseptically from the juice houses for laboratory analysis. Information related to risk factors was obtained using a structured questionnaire. In the laboratory, samples were homogenized using peptone water and incubated overnight for enrichment. Then, Salmonella and Shigella species were isolated on Salmonella-Shigella agar and Xylose Lysine Deoxycholate agar. Disc diffusion method was used to perform antimicrobial susceptibility test. Using SPSS (version 22) package, descriptive statistics and Chi square test (χ2) were used to analyze the data, and p < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Result

The overall prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella species was 41/150 (27.33%; 95% CI: 20.20 – 34.46) with 33 (22%) Salmonella spp. and 8(5.33%) Shigella spp. Antimicrobial susceptibility tests of both Salmonella and Shigella spp.showed high resistance against ampicillin (100%), tetracycline (63.6 and 62.5%, respectively) and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (100%). Accessibility of fruits to flies and dust had statistical association (p = 0.021) with occurrence of Salmonell a and/or Shigella spp.

Conclusion

The overall prevalence of Salmonella and Shigella spp. was found to be significant. The resistant rate of isolates against ampicillin, tetracycline and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid was high. Storage sites for fruits should be inaccessible to flies and dust. Therefore, routine monitoring of juice houses should be promoted and regular evaluation of bacterial resistance pattern should be done for selective antimicrobial therapy. Furthermore, consistent training of juice makers on food safety and hygiene should be implemented by the concerned body.
Determinants of drug-resistant tuberculosis in Hunan province, China: a case-control study
Authors: Akalu Temesgen Yihunie , Clements Archie C. A. , Xu Zuhui , Bai Liqiong , Alene Kefyalew Addis
Published: February 2024

Background

Drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB) is a major public health threat in Hunan Province, with an increasing clinical burden in recent years. This study aimed to identify socio-demographic and clinical factors associated with DR-TB in Hunan province, China.

Methods

A case-control study was conducted in Hunan province. Cases were all DR-TB patients who were confirmed by culture and Drug susceptibility testing (DST) and enrolled at the DR-TB treatment center of Hunan Chest Hospital from 2013 to 2018. Controls were all Drug Susceptible TB (DS-TB) patients confirmed by DST and enrolled at the same hospital during the same period. A multivariable logistic regression model was fitted to identify factors significantly associated with DR-TB.

Results

A total of 17,808 patients (15,534 DS-TB controls and 2274 DR-TB cases) were included in the study, with a mean age of 42.5 years (standard deviation (SD) ± 17.5 years) for cases and 46.1 years (SD ± 19.1 years) for controls. Age 15-64 years (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR = 1.5, 95% CI; 1.4, 1.8)), ethnic minorities (AOR = 1.5; 95% CI; 1.4, 1.8), and a history of previous TB treatment (AOR) = 1.84; 95% CI: 1.57, 2.15) was significantly associated with DR-TB. Being resident in a province outside Hunan was also a significant risk factor (AOR = 1.67; 1.27, 2.21) for DR-TB.

Conclusion and recommendations

To prevent the occurrence of DR-TB in Hunan Province, interventions should be targeted at high-risk demographic groups such as ethnic minorities, individuals of productive age, and residents living outside the province. Interventions must also be targeted to previously treated cases, suggesting the appropriateness of diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up. Understanding the risk factors at the province level helps design strategies for controlling DR-TB due to variations by socioeconomic differences, quality of health care, and healthcare access.
Can single progesterone concentration predict miscarriage in early pregnant women with threatened miscarriage: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Gong Yi , Jiang Tong , Sun Yang , Wu Guo-Lin , Han Bu-Wei , Shi Ying , Guan Shan , Li Jian
Published: February 2024

Background

About 25% of pregnant women experience bleeding in the early stage, and half of them eventually progress to pregnancy loss. Progesterone serves as a useful biomarker to predict miscarriage in threatened miscarriage, yet its performance is still debated.

Aim

To evaluate the performance of single serum progesterone predicting miscarriage in early pregnant patients with threatened miscarriage.

Method

The online database was searched to yield the literature using the terms of ‘Abortion’, ‘Miscarriage’, and ‘serum Progesterone’, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane library, and China national knowledge infrastructure. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, likelihood ratio (LLR) and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed. Publication bias was assessed by the deeks funnel plot asymmetry test. Subgroup analyses were conducted according to the progesterone level (< 12 ng/mL), recruited location and region, progesterone measurement method, exogenous progesterone supplement and follow up.

Results

In total, 12 studies were eligible to be included in this study, with sample sizes ranging from 76 to 1087. The included patients’ gestational age was between 4 and 12 weeks. No significant publication bias was detected from all included studies. The threshold of progesterone reported ranged from 8 to 30 ng/ml. The synthesized area under the ROC curve (0.85, 95% CI 0.81 to 0.88), positive LLR (6.2, 4.0 to 9.7) and DOR (18, 12 to 27) of single progesterone measurement distinguishing miscarriage were relatively good in early pregnant patients with threatened miscarriage. When the threshold of < 12 ng/mL was adapted, the progesterone provided a higher area under the ROC curve (0.90 vs. 0.78), positive LLR (8.3 vs. 3.8) and DOR (22 vs.12) than its counterpart (12 to 30 ng/mL).

Conclusion

Single progesterone measurement can act as a biomarker of miscarriage in early pregnant patients with threatened miscarriage, and it has a better performance when the concentration is <12 ng/mL.

Trial registration

PROSPERO (CRD42021255382).
Macular hole following scleral buckling for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment: a case series
Authors: Wang Fangyu , Zhu Zhongqiao , Yan Hong , Yang Yao , Niu Laxiao , Liu Jing
Published: February 2024

Background

Macular hole (MH) development following scleral buckling (SB) surgery for rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) repair is rare. This study presents both full-thickness MH (FTMH) and lamellar MH (LMH) cases following SB for the treatment of RRD.

Methods

Clinical records of patients undergoing SB surgery for treatment of RRD at the Xi’an People’s Hospital (Xi’an Fourth Hospital) from January 2016 to December 2021 were reviewed, and cases with postoperative MH were selected. Clinical features and follow-up data were summarised, and possible causes were analysed.

Results

Among 483 identified cases (483 eyes), four eyes (three male patients, one female patient) had postoperative MH, with prevalence, mean age, and mean axial length of 0.83%, 43.5 ± 10.66 years, and 29.13 ± 3.80 mm, respectively. All patients did not undergo subretinal fluid (SRF) drainage. The mean time for detecting MH was 26 ± 15.5 days postoperatively. Macula-off RRD with high myopia and FTMH combined with retinal re-detachment were diagnosed in three patients. One patient had macula-on RRD with outer LMH. The average follow-up duration was 7.25 ± 1.5 months. The FTMH closed successfully after reoperation, while the outer LMH closed without intervention. Visual acuity insignificantly improved or slightly decreased in all patients.

Conclusions

Patients with high myopia combined with macula-off RRD might be more susceptible to FTMH, causing MH related retinal detachment. Additionally, LMH following SB was noted in patients with macula-on RRD. Therefore, we should raise awareness of MH following SB for RRD repair.
Validity of BiliDx as a point-of-care bilirubin measurement device to diagnose and monitor neonatal jaundice at Muhimbili National Hospital, an observational study
Authors: Clemence Pascal , Moshiro Robert , Manji Karim
Published: February 2024

Background

Neonatal jaundice is a condition caused by elevated levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream. Laboratory determination of serum bilirubin concentration by total serum bilirubin (TSB) test is still considered as gold standard for clinical guidance and practice. In developed countries, diagnosis of neonatal jaundice is shifting towards point-of-care medical devices. BiliDx is a device developed to allow a fast, blood-based determination of bilirubin levels at the point of care. This study aimed to determine the accuracy of the BiliDx device relative to a standard laboratory total serum bilirubin to diagnose and monitor jaundice among neonates admitted at Muhimbili National Hospital (MNH).

Material and methodology

This was a prospective hospital-based observational study conducted at the Neonatal Ward – MNH, Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania from November 2022 to January 2023. A total of 180 neonates admitted at the neonatal ward with jaundice and whose parents consented were enrolled in the study. Blood samples were collected; 2 ml of venous blood into the vacutainer bottle for standard laboratory measurement of total serum bilirubin (TSB) and 25µL blood collected into a transfer pipette tube and applied to BiliDx. STATA version 15.1 was used for data analysis.

Results

Out of 180 neonates, 39.4% (71/180) had birth weight between 1500 − 2499.9 g, approximately 2/3rd (120/180) were preterm, 92/180 (51.1%) were males and 100/180 (55.6%) were undergoing phototherapy treatment the moment sample taken. The mean bilirubin concentration was 92 mmol/l for BiliDx and 118 mmol/l for standard laboratory TSB. The minimum and maximum values obtained with BiliDx were, 3.4 and 427.5 mmol/l respectively, compared with 10.7 and 382.1 mmol/l using standard laboratory TSB. A linear relationship and correlation coefficient of 0.8408 (p = 0.000) between BiliDx and standard laboratory TSB was found. The regression analysis showed the presence of constant error [coefficient of BiliDx/slope = 0.91, 95% CI (0.82–0.99), p = 0.000] and random error exclusively [coefficient of constant/y-intercept = 48.52, 95%CI (37.70-59.34), p = 0.000]. The Bland–Altman plot showed an acceptable mean difference of 39.1mmol/l, limits of agreement of -48.3mmol/l to 126.4mmol/l, and 179 points (179/180 = 99.4%) lying inside the limits of agreement.

Conclusion

The results support the use of BiliDx for rapid and accurate testing of elevated levels of bilirubin in the bloodstream among neonates since 99.4% of the differences between BiliDx and standard laboratory TSB lie between the lines of agreement.
Intimate partner violence during pregnancy and its association with birth asphyxia in hospitals of Tigray region, Ethiopia
Authors: Gebreslasie Kahsay Zenebe , Gebre Gelawdiwos , Zenebe Dawit , Nardos Rahel , Birhane Aklil
Published: February 2024

Background

Birth asphyxia is the main cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity worldwide. Some studies indicate intimate partner violence during pregnancy is a risk factor for birth asphyxia. In Ethiopia, intimate partner violence during pregnancy is reported to be high. Despite this high prevalence, there is a lack of data about the association of birth asphyxia and intimate partner violence. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of intimate partner violence during pregnancy and its associated factors with birth asphyxia in health facilities in the Tigray region of northern Ethiopia.

Methods

This was an institutional-based cross-sectional study conducted at select health facilities in the Tigray region of Ethiopia. Random sampling technique was employed to select health facilities and systematic sampling was used to select 648 study participants. Data was entered by using Epi info version 3.5.1 and was analyzed using SPSS version 20. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was done to assess the association between exposure to intimate partner violence during pregnancy and birth asphyxia after adjusting for possible confounders.

Results

The prevalence of intimate partner violence during pregnancy was 47(7.3%). Eighty two (12.7%) babies were delivered with birth asphyxia. Intimate partner violence during pregnancy had a significant association with birth asphyxia, AOR (95% CI) = 4.4(2-9.8). In addition to this, other factors that were associated with birth asphyxia include place of residence [ AOR (95% CI) = 2.7(1.55–4.8)], age > 19 [AOR (95% CI) = 2.9(1.29–6.5)], age 20–35 [AOR (95% CI) = 3.1(1.06–9.3)], gestational age < 37 weeks [AOR(95% CI) = 7.2(3.5–14.8)] and low birth weight [AOR(95% CI) = 3.9(2.1–7.3)].

Conclusions

The prevalence of birth asphyxia in this study is high and is further increased by intimate partner violence during pregnancy. Health care providers and policy makers should take measures aimed at preventing intimate partner violence during pregnancy to reduce harm to the mother and adverse birth outcomes.