bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Study of edaravone impact on oxidative stress biomarkers in serum and brain of rats with traumatic brain injury
Authors: Ткаченко В. А. , Шевцова А. І. , Лєвих А. Е. , Харченко Ю. В. , Жилюк В. І.
Published: January 2025

It is known that traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the main causes of death and disability among people of all ages. Recently, the risk of TBI has increased dramatically in Ukraine, not only for the military, but also for civilians. After traumatic brain injury a cascade of multidirectional metabolic changes begins in the brain, including protein carbonylation, increased lipid peroxidation, free radicals formation, impaired neurotransmitters release and energy imbalance, which are associated with the development of various functional disorders. The search for effective drugs to eliminate or prevent these complications is very important. Nowadays, although edaravone has a limited range of indications (alleviation of neurological symptoms and functional disorders associated with acute ischemic stroke, as well as slowing the progression of functional disorders in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), the known mechanisms of its pharmacological action may be useful in other conditions of the central nervous system, where oxidative stress plays a leading role in pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of edaravone on biomarkers of carbonyl oxidative stress in rats with TBI. Modeling of TBI was carried out by applying a directed mechanical injury to the area of the scalped skull with a metal bar (450 g) falling from a height of 170 cm. Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), protein carbonyls (PC370, PC430), the content of lactate and ischemia modified albumin (IMA) in serum and S1 fractions of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of experimental animals were studied using spectrophotometry. It was established, that the modeling of TBI was associated with an elevation of PC430, AOPP and lactate in serum. Simultaneously, the levels of TBARS, IMA and lactate also were increased in the brain homogenates in addition to the above-mentioned changes. In our study edaravone demonstrated efficacy in reducing the levels of some specific biomarkers of oxidative stress. In particular, the administration of the drug was accompanied by a decrease in elevated contents of PC430, AOPP and lactate in serum, indicating its ability to systemically attenuate oxidative damage. It should be noted that a characteristic feature of the drug in case of TBI was its effect on the course of oxidative stress in the hippocampus. In addition, the ability of edaravone to a moderate increase in lactate production can be explained not by the phenomena of lactic acidosis, but by the activation of glia to meet the energy needs of the neurons in the injured brain. The results obtained provide valuable insight into the potential therapeutic effects of edaravone in TBI, but require further studies to elucidate more detailed mechanisms of therapeutic action of this drug.
Intento autolítico: factores protectores e intervenciones de enfermería
Authors: Pombosa Villamarín Valeria Geovanna , Sinchi Guevara Jennifer Katherine , Padilla Buñay Susana , Damián Sinchiguano Gabriela Elizabeth
Published: January 2025

Introducción.  El intento autolítico representa la tercera causa de defunción entre las personas de 15 a 29 años y la mayoría de los suicidios ocurren en países de ingresos bajos y medianos. Ante los comportamientos y conductas suicidas, los profesionales sanitarios deben trabajar en promover los factores de protección que brinden seguridad para el sustento de la vida y centrarse en minimizar circunstancias predisponentes, que puedan en algún momento y circunstancia precipitar conductas letales. Objetivo. Caracterizar los factores protectores e intervenciones de enfermería en prevención primaria, seguimiento y control de las conductas suicidas o un potencial acto de suicidio. Metodología. El estudio se desarrolló como una revisión bibliográfica de tipo descriptivo, se incluyeron publicaciones científicas disponibles en bases de datos como Scopus, PubMed, SciELO, ProQuest, el Portal Regional de la Biblioteca Virtual en Salud, Dialnet y Redalyc. La estrategia de búsqueda integró el uso de Google Académico y los motores de búsqueda propios de cada base de datos. Resultados. Los factores protectores como el apoyo social, dinámicas familiares positivos, regulación emocional y la autoestima, son esenciales para prevenir conductas suicidas. Las intervenciones de enfermería deben centrarse en potenciar estos factores mediante acciones preventivas desde la atención primaria, abordando la educación, identificación temprana de riesgos y creación de redes de apoyo. Además, se requiere establecer protocolos estandarizados, fortalecer la formación continua y promover un enfoque humanizado. La relación terapéutica, basada en empatía y confianza, es clave para identificar riesgos, fomentar conductas saludables y reintegrar a los pacientes en sus entornos comunitarios. Conclusión. Los factores protectores son indispensables en la prevención del suicidio, mientras que el rol de enfermería se centra en implementar estrategias preventivas, fortalecer vínculos terapéuticos basados en la empatía y confianza, y manejar riesgos de manera efectiva. Área de estudio general: Salud. Área de estudio específica: Enfermería. Tipo de estudio: Artículo original.
Prácticas comunicativas para generar un cambio social: caso Quimiag
Authors: Zavala Enríquez Jenny Maribel , Rodríguez Galán Andrés Leandro , Pillajo Borja Hernán Patricio , Parra Maggi Leslie Kassandra
Published: January 2025

Introducción: las prácticas comunicativas han servido a lo largo de la historia para generar cambios positivos en las comunidades donde se ejecutan. Objetivo: analizar el caso de la Parroquia Quimiag, ubicada en Ecuador, donde se han evaluado las prácticas comunicativas de sus habitantes y su influencia en el cambio social. Metodología: se exploraron diversas formas de comunicación, desde la tradicional conversación de boca a boca hasta, mingas, asambleas comunitarias y la adhesión de la tecnología para generar nuevas formas de comunicación. Resultados: según el estudio se identificó que las mingas son una práctica común en la Parroquia, donde la comunidad se reúne para trabajar en proyectos de interés colectivo. Estas no solo funcionan como una forma de cooperación, sino también como un espacio para intercambiar ideas, discutir temas relevantes para el desarrollo local e incluso acordar futuras reuniones y acciones en beneficio de la población. Además, se analizaron las campañas de comunicación para el cambio social realizadas en Quimiag, como la campaña de educación "Todos al Aula" implementada en 2022 para combatir el abandono escolar, uno de los principales problemas que aqueja a la zona. El estudio incluyó la evaluación de las percepciones de los residentes sobre el cambio social en Quimiag mediante encuestas y entrevistas. Se buscó comprender si la comunidad había experimentado transformaciones positivas en aspectos como el desarrollo, la calidad de vida o la cohesión social. Esta evaluación proporcionó una visión integral de cómo las prácticas comunicativas contribuyen al cambio social y cómo son percibidas por la comunidad. Conclusión: esta investigación buscó comprender y aprovechar las prácticas comunicativas locales para promover el cambio social en comunidades rurales. Al identificar las estrategias más efectivas y entender la perspectiva de los habitantes, se pueden diseñar intervenciones más adecuadas y significativas para impulsar el desarrollo y el bienestar de la Parroquia. Área de estudio general: Comunicación. Área de estudio específica: Prácticas Comunicativas. Tipo de estudio:  Artículos originales.
Prevalence of Hypertension and Associated Risk Factors among Post-Menopausal Women of Boalkhali Upazila of Chattogram District: Cross Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Chowdhury MSI Tipu , Chowdhury Rajsree , Sultana Sadia , Hossain Mohammad Akram , Sultan Mohammad Ashraf Uddin , Abdullah Abu Sadik , Mahmud Sohel , Bari Ahmed Saiful , Fatema Nilufar , Mahbub SM Ear E , Khaled Md Fakhrul Islam , Ahmed Khurshed
Published: January 2025

Background: Prevalence of hypertension increases with age and postmenopausal women remain at higher risk than other population group. Various risk factors attribute to the precipitation of the postmenopausal hypertension, however definitive mechanism have not been completely explicated till date. Aims of the study: The study attempted to evaluate the prevalence of hypertension and associated risk factors among postmenopausal women of Boalkhali Upazila, Chattogram, Bangladesh. Materials and method: This cross-sectional study was conducted at Boalkhali Upazila of Chattogram District with total 400 post-menopausal women who have been included in this study with convenient sampling method. Results: The study results showed that, mean age of postmenopausal women was 58.65±7.67 years, 11.75% of them had pre-hypertension and 35.75% of them had hypertension. A logistic regression analysis showed that, age, marital status, menopausal onset, BMI, hip circumference, family history of comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes mellitus and both hypertension and diabetes mellitus), comorbidities of the respondents such as diabetes mellitus, ischemic heart disease and sedentary life style were independent risk factors of hypertensive status of the post-menopausal women when adjusted for other risk factors (p<0.05) Conclusion: This study conclude that, high prevalence of hypertension among post-menopausal women. So, its need to be more concern about post-menopausal women to reduce the prevalence of hypertension and risk factors to avoid hypertension related cardiovascular death and other dare complications. 
University Heart Journal 2024; 20(1): 22-30
CONOCIMIENTO SOBRE PROTOCOLOS DE BIOSEGURIDAD EN EL PERSONAL DE SALUD DURANTE EL PERIODO 2020 – 2024
Authors: MIJAHUANCA ARAUJO JHOISY LESLY , Herrera Chamorro Fresly Estelina , Ruiz Ruiz Maria Teresa , Velásquez Porras Paul César
Published: January 2025

Objetivo: Analizar el conocimiento del profesional sanitario con respecto a los protocolos debioseguridad durante el periodo 2020-2024. Método: Se llevó a cabo una revisión sistemáticade retrospectivo longitudinal abarcando los últimos 5 años, se utilizó el enfoque PRISMA. Serealizó una búsqueda minuciosa en las bases de datos, EBSCO, Scielo y G-Scholar,considerando artículos científicos en español, portugués e inglés. De la literatura revisada serecolectó 26 que cumplían con los criterios establecidos de inclusión y exclusión. Resultados:Se evidenciaron deficiencias significativas del conocimiento sobre las directrices debioseguridad en más de la mitad de la literatura revisada. Conclusión: La falta deconocimiento del personal de salud entre 2020 y 2024 implica un riesgo futuro para la saludpública. Es esencial implementar programas de capacitación continuos y específicos paramejorar la aplicación efectiva de estas normativas garantizando así la seguridad tanto delpersonal sanitario como de los pacientes.
FLORES DE BACH COMO TRATAMIENTO PARA LA DISMINUCIÓN DE SÍNTOMAS DE ESTRÉS ACADÉMICO.
Authors: García Castellanos Tania de la Caridad
Published: January 2025

Objetivo: Demostrar la efectividad de la Terapia Floral de Bach como tratamiento de los síntomas de estrés académico. Metodología: La presente investigación es un estudio descriptivo de tipo cualitativo, el cual busca sustentar la aplicación de las Flores de Bach como tratamiento de los síntomas del estrés académico. Resultados: La Terapia Floral de Bach basándonos en la revisión bibliográfica de diferentes artículos resulto ser efectiva como tratamiento para el estrés académico. La efectividad de la Terapia Floral, se pueden encontrar plasmados en los 17 artículos revisados. Conclusiones: La aplicación de la Terapia Floral puede ayudar a disminuir los síntomas de estrés académico logrando un mejor bienestar físico y un mejor rendimiento académico.
TERAPIAS TRADICIONALES EN ENFERMERIA INTERCULTURAL COMO TRATAMIENTO DEL INSOMNIO. CLINICA DE SALUD INTERCULTURAL. ESTADO DE MEXICO. 2023
Authors: García Castellanos Tania de la Caridad
Published: January 2025

Objetivo: Demostrar la eficacia de las terapias convencionales de enfermería intercultural en el alivio del insomnio. Método: se realizó una investigación cualitativo y descriptivo donde se tomaron datos de fuentes bibliográficas, teniendo en cuenta los síntomas del insomnio en los pacientes en la Clínica de Salud Intercultural y bibliografía consultada. Se utilizaron fuentes de información confiables como Google académico entre otros. Resultados: La totalidad de los estudios afirman que los síntomas del insomnio (dolor de cabeza, fatiga e irritabilidad) son aliviados con terapias tradicionales como masaje, acupuntura, entre otras. Discusión: Las terapias tradicionales (Auriculoterapia, masoterapia, acupuntura y fitoterapia) como tratamiento para la disminución de los síntomas del insomnio, demostraron ser efectivas en el alivio del insomnio. Como limitaciones, se encontró que existen escasas evidencias bibliográficas que demuestren dicha eficacia. Conclusiones: las terapias tradicionales como tratamiento para disminuir los síntomas del insomnio, son estudios con poco nivel de evidencia, pero gracias  a estudios primarios realizados desde la antigüedad y a su uso en instituciones como la Clínica de Salud Intercultural, entre otras, que constan en la bibliografía, queda demostrada su efectividad y la posibilidad de disminuir el uso de fármacos, estas servirán para investigaciones futuras y se podrá implementar como uno de los principales tratamientos en cualquier institución que ofrezca servicios de salud.
Development of an Effective Triantibiotic formulation for Enterococcus faecalis in the Treatment of Endodontic Pathology
Authors: S Diana Cristina Aristizábal , G Anabel Giraldo , C Diego Mauricio Tobón , Cadavid Elizabeth , Rojas Diego Fernando
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The main objective of endodontic treatment is to minimize the number of microorganisms in the root canal system, to prevent or treat apical periodontitis [1]. The Enterococcus faecalis bacteria, most prevalent in persistent endodontic infections, resists antibacterial medications such as calcium hydroxide and multiconjugate pastes [2]. The increase in possible cases of refractory apical periodontitis due to said resistance has led to the search for alternatives, such as the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics alone or in combination as a possible solution to this problem [3].

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of a triantibiotic formulation on the inhibition of bacterial growth of E.feacalis by replacing Minocycline with Amoxicillin, to prevent dental pigmentation without losing the disinfection capacity of said paste.

Materials and Methods: Commercial presentations of the antibiotics and microdilution techniques were used to evaluate the antimicrobial activity against the bacterial strain of E. faecalis.

Results: In this study, Amoxicillin obtained the highest percentage of inhibition on E. faecalis
Rancang Bangun Kokurikuler Penerapan P5PPRA di MI Kota Lhokseumawe
Authors: Nurmayuli Nurmayuli , Jannah Raujatul
Published: January 2025

Changes in the independent curriculum make school principals and teachers must be ready to follow these changes. Where in the independent curriculum there are 2 parts, namely instraural learning and project-based learning to strengthen the character of the Pancasila student profile. However, in the statement of the implementation of the Pancasila Student Profile Strengthening Project and the Rahmatan lil Alamin Student Profile (P5PPRA) in each Madrasah, there are still obstacles in determining the project theme. The purpose of the research is to design and build the P5PPRA co-curricular in MI Lhokseumawe City. The research method uses the DBR (Design Base Research) model development method. The research was conducted at MIN 5 Lhokseumawe City. The population of this study is all MIN 5 school tekholders in the city of Lhokseumawe including the Head of Madrasah, and all madrasah teachers, then the sample is the head of the madrasah and representatives of Class Teachers, PAI, and PJOK. The sampling technique uses snow balls for teachers and proportional sampling for the Head of Madrasah. The results of the study showed that based on the analysis of Madrasah needs, 4 project themes were obtained which included the theme of sustainable living, building the soul and body, diversity of the single ika and local wisdom
Implementasi 3 B dalam Manajemen Pondok Pendawa di Parung
Authors: Sukataman Sukataman , Khotimah Khusnul
Published: January 2025

Pondok pesantren merupakan lembaga pendidikan non formal yang mengajarkan kepada santri ilmu agama. Pondok pesantren yang dahulu dikenal sebagai lembaga pendidikan yang hanya mengajarkan agama sekarang sudah berafiliasi dan mulai mengajarkan ilmu terkait dengan life skill. Pembekalan dan pengajaran life skill diharapkan mampu memberikan bekal kehidupan santri dan siap membangun kemandirian. Pondok Pendawa termasuk salah satu pondok yang menerapkan manajemen penggabungan pembelajaran aspek ilmu dan life skill. Pondok pendawa menuntut santri tidak hanya pandai dalam ilmu agama, ibadah, umum, tapi juga cakap dalam life skill. Hemat kalimat semua kecapakan tersebut terangkum dalam 3 B. Penelitian ini menjadi penelitian yang penting,  karena bisa menjadi salah satu alternatif rujukan pondok pesantren mahasiswa dalam pengelolaannya. Metode penelitian yang digunakan penelitia yaitu metode penelitian kualitatif. Penggalian data dilakukan melalui wawancara, observasi dan dokumentasi. Data yang sudah diperoleh diolah dan disajikan dalam bentuk deskriptif. Hasil penelitian menjelaskan bahwa manajemen 3 B (Beribadah, Belajar dan Bekerja) sangat membekas dalam diri santri. Beberapa alumni mempunyai jiwa entrepreneur yang siap membangun usahanya sendiri seperti menjahit, budidaya sayur hidropoinik, jasa penyewaan tempat.
X-gram and/as techsposure
Authors: Chokshi Crystal
Published: January 2025

How can generative AI’s entanglement with climate crisis be made visible? This question catalyzed a research-creational intervention, called X-gram, that emblematizes this paper’s theoretical contribution, a concept I call techsposure. Combining the words “technology” and “exposure,” techsposure is a method by which a technology’s affordances are made to expose its own material, infrastructural, environmental, or climate consequences. Put another way, techsposure occurs when tech tells on itself in a particularly poetically-just kind of way. Broadly, this article argues that research-creational interventions are urgently required ethical tools in our scholarly toolkits. They equip us to creatively destabilize Big Tech’s charting of bleak climate futures and to engage audiences in imagining, as Natalie Loveless (2019) puts it, how the world could be organized differently.
SCHOOL ORGANIZATIONAL CULTURE; FORMAL INSTUTIONS CEREMONIAL IN FORMING STUDENT CHARACTER EDUCATION
Authors: Hartatik Dewi , Siswanto Romi
Published: January 2025

AThe purpose of this article is to discuss the form of school culture in instilling character education values for students at SMAN I Kalianget Sumenep. This research method uses descriptive qualitative. Data collection was obtained from the process of observation and mandala interviews. Then the data were analyzed by condensing data, presenting data, and drawing conclusions. The findings of this study are that the inculcation of character education at SMAN I Kalianget is through school culture such as congregational midday prayers, daily worship checklists, cleaning classes and mosques, getting used to permission before leaving class, flag ceremony, Friday alms, extra Saturdays (extracurricular activities). which is held every week through exemplary activities created based on the school's vision and mission. Of course, with the values of character education formed from the organizational culture, students can be emotionally and morally intelligent.
IMPLEMENTATION OF QURANIC LITERACY IN FORMING STUDENTS' DISCIPLINE CHARACTER
Authors: Taufiq Akbar Imam , Winoto Suhadi , Umam Khotibul
Published: January 2025

Character education is a character that is centered on individual learners as a foundation in thinking, acting and behaving. So it is very important to instill a disciplined character through Qur'anic literacy. This research methodology uses qualitative research case studies. Data collection techniques were obtained from primary and secondary sources both from field observations and digital literature. The results of the research obtained that Qur'anic literacy had a close relationship with the formation of the disciplinary character of students in MTs Mabdaul Ma'arif. Meanwhile, from the planning aspect, it has been neatly structured from the schedule of activities, the selection of coaches, supervision carried out by student guardians, and adequate infrastructure. Then evaluated by holding a dialogue between students and teachers or coaches that produce appropriated guidelines in the development of Quranic literacy in the MTs Mabdaul Ma'arif environment.
Optimization of erythritol production through fermentation using molasses as carbon source
Authors: Kembaren Riahna , Parikesit Arli Aditya , Nataniel Jocelyn , Dharmawan Nethania Angeline , Dungus Charlivo Mikaichi , Angelique Priscilla , Aslanzadeh Solmaz
Published: January 2025

Erythritol is a beneficial sugar alcohol that can be used as a sugar substitute for diabetic patients. Erythritol is a bioproduct produced by microorganisms as a response to high osmotic pressure and stress in the growth medium. High concentrations of carbon source substrate can increase the osmotic pressure and provide more nutrient supply for yeast growth and metabolism. Aside from that, an optimal carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio can also make the erythritol conversion pathway more favorable. Therefore, this research aims to determine the optimal concentrations of molasses as the carbon source, yeast extract as the nitrogen source, and the optimal carbon-to-nitrogen (C/N) ratio to achieve the highest erythritol productivity. The research also seeks to optimize NaCl concentrations and pH while comparing batch and fed-batch fermentation systems to determine which produces a higher erythritol yield. One-Factor-at-A-Time (OFAT) method was used to identify optimal production conditions. The study found that the highest erythritol concentration, 17.48 ± 0.86 g/L, was achieved using 200 g/L of molasses, 7 g/L of yeast extract (200/7), and 25 g/L of NaCl, with a yield mass of 0.262 ± 0.00 g/g and a volumetric productivity of 0.095 ± 0.021 g/Lh. The pH optimization revealed that the best erythritol production occurred within a pH of 5. Furthermore, fed-batch fermentation significantly increased erythritol concentration to 26.52 ± 1.61 g/L, with a yield mass of 0.501 ± 0.032 g/g and a volumetric productivity of 0.158 ± 0.01 g/Lh. These findings emphasize the importance of optimizing carbon source, nitrogen source and NaCl concentration, pH, and fermentation systems, particularly highlighting the benefits of fed-batch fermentation in maximizing erythritol production. These findings provide a solid foundation for improving erythritol yields for industrial applications.
Leveraging AI to improve disease screening among American Indians: insights from the Strong Heart Study
Authors: Rogers Paul , McCall Thomas , Zhang Ying , Reese Jessica , Wang Dong , Tong Weida
Published: January 2025

Screening tests for disease have their performance measured through sensitivity and specificity, which inform how well the test can discriminate between those with and without the condition. Typically, high values for sensitivity and specificity are desired. These two measures of performance are unaffected by the outcome prevalence of the disease in the population. Research projects into the health of the American Indian frequently develop Machine learning algorithms as predictors of conditions in this population. In essence, these models serve as in silico screening tests for disease. A screening test’s sensitivity and specificity values, typically determined during the development of the test, inform on the performance at the population level and are not affected by the prevalence of disease. A screening test’s positive predictive value (PPV) is susceptible to the prevalence of the outcome. As the number of artificial intelligence and machine learning models flourish to predict disease outcomes, it is crucial to understand if the PPV values for these in silico methods suffer as traditional screening tests in a low prevalence outcome environment. The Strong Heart Study (SHS) is an epidemiological study of the American Indian and has been utilized in predictive models for health outcomes. We used data from the SHS focusing on the samples taken during Phases V and VI. Logistic Regression, Artificial Neural Network, and Random Forest were utilized as in silico screening tests within the SHS group. Their sensitivity, specificity, and PPV performance were assessed with health outcomes of varying prevalence within the SHS subjects. Although sensitivity and specificity remained high in these in silico screening tests, the PPVs’ values declined as the outcome’s prevalence became rare. Machine learning models used as in silico screening tests are subject to the same drawbacks as traditional screening tests when the outcome to be predicted is of low prevalence.
Algorithmic agency and “fighting back” against discriminatory Instagram content moderation: #IWantToSeeNyome
Authors: Willcox Marissa
Published: January 2025

Instagram influencers of marginalized identities and subjectivities, for example those that are plus sized or people of color, often express that their content is moderated more heavily and will sometimes place blame on the “the algorithm” for their feelings of discrimination. Though biases online are reflective of discrimination in society at large, these biases are co-constituted through algorithmic and human processes and the entanglement of these processes in enacting discriminatory content removals should be taken seriously. These influencers who are more likely to have their content removed, have to learn how to play “the algorithm game” to remain visible, creating a conflicting discussion around agentic flows which dictates not only their Instagram use, but more broadly, how creators might feel about their bodies in relation to societal standards of “acceptability.” In this paper I present the #IWantToSeeNyome campaign as a case study example which contextualizes some of the experiences of marginalized influencers who feel content moderation affects their attachments to their content. Through a lens of algorithmic agency, I think through the contrasting alignments between freedom of expression and normative representation of bodies in public space. The Instagram assemblage of content moderation, presents a lens with which to view this issue and highlights the contrast between content making, user agency, and the ways more-than-human processes can affect human feelings about bodies and where they do and do not belong.
CLIL on the spot: migrant education in Greece
Authors: Mattheoudakis Marina , Fotiadou Georgia , Papadopoulou Despina
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study aims to explore the instructional strategies employed by Greek teachers in primary and secondary school classes attended by large numbers of refugee and migrant students. As there is not a clear methodological ‘blueprint’ for CLIL that teachers are required to follow, our study will investigate which of the principles framed for the CLIL approach are in fact applied by educators.

Methods

To this aim, we adopted a survey-based research methodology (web-based questionnaire) and a phenomenological approach (semi-structured interviews).

Results

Results include data from 125 respondents of the questionnaire, working in 21 different regional units of Greece, and the lived experiences of five educators. Most of the participants had no prior training in bilingual or intercultural education but were highly qualified (holders of at least an MA). Thus, although educational background was not identified as a predictive factor to the teaching strategies, training in topics such as bilingual education and interculturality was. Scaffolding techniques were significantly affected by teachers’ age, training and educational setting (primary vs. secondary). Moreover, the variety of activities offered differed between the two levels of school settings as educators chose strategies they deemed appropriate for the cognitive and proficiency level of their students.

Discussion

Overall, our findings suggest that, although educators of Greek state schools lack specific training in managing plurilingual and pluricultural classes, they experiment with a variety of CLIL practices and that those who have had some relevant trainings are more prompt to support their students with multiple scaffolding techniques than those who have had no such prior experience.
Analytical validation of a novel bioassay for thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin
Authors: Olivo Paul D. , Kim Hannah , Miao Lynn , Houtz Jeffery A. , Kahaly George J.
Published: January 2025

Background

A novel and rapid cell-based bioassay, Turbo TSI, for measurement of thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulins (TSI) was recently reported. An assessment of the analytical performance of this TSI bioassay is described herein.

Methods

Thawed cells from Turbo TSI kits were treated with different concentrations of a World Health Organization (WHO) international standard (IS) TSI-positive serum. TSI was measured as a function of luciferase activity measured as relative light units (RLU) and converted into international units per liter (IU/L). Analytical performance studies were performed on numerous samples, over multiple days, by two users at two sites.

Results

The limit of blank, limit of detection and limit of quantitation were determined to be 0.007 IU/L, 0.014 IU/L, and 0.021 IU/L, respectively. Receiver operator characteristics (ROC) analysis determined the cut-off to be 0.0241 IU/L with an area under the curve of 0.984. The linear range was shown to be from 0.015 to 11.958 IU/L. The intra-laboratory precision was ≤15%CV. The overall reproducibility of the assay was ≤20%CV for five concentrations (0.06 to 5.16 IU/L). Interference and cross reactivity studies with a variety of substances showed that the assay was robust. The Turbo TSI bioassay demonstrated 95.2% (95% CI 83.3-98.1) positive percent agreement and 94.8% (95% CI 90.9-97.1) negative percent agreement with an FDA-cleared bioassay (Thyretain® TSI) using serum from 295 patients with autoimmune thyroid disease.

Conclusions

The Turbo TSI bioassay exhibits excellent analytical performance and a high level of reproducibility. The performance compared well with Thyretain® TSI, an FDA-cleared TSI bioassay.
Targeting immune cellular populations and transcription factors: unraveling the therapeutic potential of JQF for NAFLD
Authors: Zhou Lijuan , Zhao Jingyi , Ma Kaile , Hao Rui , Yao Chensi , Gou Xiaowen , Tian Chuanxi , Wan Li , Li Min , Tong Xiaolin
Published: January 2025

Background

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) constitutes the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide. Progression to non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the immune cell reservoir within the liver undergoes remodeling, exacerbating liver inflammation and potentially leading to liver fibrosis. Jiangtang Qingre Formula (JQF) is an effective prescription for the clinical treatment of NAFLD. However, its underlying mechanism of action remains unclear.

Methods

Using a high-fat diet-induced NAFLD mouse model, we evaluated JQF’s effects with biochemical tests and histopathology. Single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics furthered our understanding of NAFLD pathophysiology and JQF’s treatment mechanisms.

Results

Our findings initially revealed significant improvements in JQF on hepatic steatosis, inflammation, fibrosis and glucose tolerance in NAFLD mice. Furthermore, significant changes were observed in the immune cells including monocytes, macrophages, and T cells in the livers of NAFLD mice. Notably, regions infiltrated by T cells presented the most severe liver inflammation and fibrosis. Importantly, JQF effectively modulated these immune cells. Advanced subcluster and cell communication analyses identified key macrophage (KCs, MoMFs) and T cell (Tc, Th2) subpopulations in JQF’s therapeutic actions. Further SCENIC analysis additionally uncovered the essential transcription factors that regulate these cell subclusters, such as Stat2, Mta3, Eomes, and Etv5.

Conclusion

Overall, our research suggests a promising potential therapeutic agent and identifies critical cell populations and transcription factors that contribute to its therapeutic effects, thereby revealing potential therapeutic targets for NAFLD.
An allelic atlas of immunoglobulin heavy chain variable regions reveals antibody binding epitope preference resilient to SARS-CoV-2 mutation escape
Authors: Deng Weiqi , Niu Xuefeng , He Ping , Yan Qihong , Liang Huan , Wang Yongping , Ning Lishan , Lin Zihan , Zhang Yudi , Zhao Xinwei , Feng Liqiang , Qu Linbing , Chen Ling
Published: January 2025

Background

Although immunoglobulin (Ig) alleles play a pivotal role in the antibody response to pathogens, research to understand their role in the humoral immune response is still limited.

Methods

We retrieved the germline sequences for the IGHV from the IMGT database to illustrate the amino acid polymorphism present within germline sequences of IGHV genes. We aassembled the sequences of IgM and IgD repertoire from 130 people to investigate the genetic variations in the population. A dataset comprising 10,643 SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific antibodies, obtained from COV-AbDab, was compiled to assess the impact of SARS-CoV-2 infection on allelic gene utilization. Binding affinity and neutralizing activity were determined using bio-layer interferometry and pseudovirus neutralization assays. Primary docking was performed using ZDOCK (3.0.2) to generate the initial conformation of the antigen-antibody complex, followed by simulations of the complete conformations using Rosetta SnugDock software. The original and simulated structural conformations were visualized and presented using ChimeraX (v1.5).

Results

We present an allelic atlas of immunoglobulin heavy chain (IgH) variable regions, illustrating the diversity of allelic variants across 33 IGHV family germline sequences by sequencing the IgH repertoire of in the population. Our comprehensive analysis of SARS-CoV-2 spike-specific antibodies revealed the preferential use of specific Ig alleles among these antibodies. We observed an association between Ig alleles and antibody binding epitopes. Different allelic genotypes binding to the same RBD epitope on the spike show different neutralizing potency and breadth. We found that antibodies carrying the IGHV1-69*02 allele tended to bind to the RBD E2.2 epitope. The antibodies carrying G50 and L55 amino acid residues exhibit potential enhancements in binding affinity and neutralizing potency to SARS-CoV-2 variants containing the L452R mutation on RBD, whereas R50 and F55 amino acid residues tend to have reduced binding affinity and neutralizing potency. IGHV2-5*02 antibodies using the D56 allele bind to the RBD D2 epitope with greater binding and neutralizing potency due to the interaction between D56 on HCDR2 and K444 on RBD of most Omicron subvariants. In contrast, IGHV2-5*01 antibodies using the N56 allele show increased binding resistance to the K444T mutation on RBD.

Discussion

This study provides valuable insights into humoral immune responses from the perspective of Ig alleles and population genetics. These findings underscore the importance of Ig alleles in vaccine design and therapeutic antibody development.
Circulating levels of adiponectin and AdipoR expression in peripheral blood mononuclear cells are associated with lower respiratory tract Infection
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Xuemei , Xu Danning , Jiang Mengjie , Gao Yidan , Jiang Lijuan , Liu Meilian , Tang Haoneng , Tang Lingli
Published: January 2025

Objective

The role of adiponectin (APN) in regulating inflammation is well recognized in metabolic disease, but the dysregulation of APN in lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) remains controversial. We aimed to measure APN and its signaling receptors, adiponectin receptor (AdipoR), in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from LRTI patients to explore their potential roles in the LRTI process.

Methods

A total of 99 LRTI patients from the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University were categorized into acute (n=35) and non-acute (n=64), and non-severe (n=62) and severe (n=37) groups. Serum APN was quantified using ELISA, and mRNA levels of PBMC AdipoRs were determined by RT-qPCR.

Results

Both levels of APN in circulation and AdipoR1 mRNA were significantly elevated in the LRTI patients (P=2.61E-04; P=2.49E-08), while no statistical difference was observed for AdipoR2. APN levels were increased in the non-acute group compared to the acute group (P=6.06E-04) and AdipoR1 levels were higher in the severe group (P=0.004). Increased APN and AdipoR1 mRNA levels were positively associated with LRTI even after adjustment for sex, age, BMI and blood lipids (OR=1.10; 95% CI 1.04-1.18; P=9.61E-04; OR=2.69; 95% CI 1.29-5.58; P=0.008). Subgroup analyses based on sex, age, and BMI revealed APN elevation in males, ≥65-year-olds, and overweight individuals, with higher AdipoR2 mRNA in females and those under 65; AdipoR1 was uniformly elevated. Additionally, APN was negatively correlated with lymphocyte count in acute and severe subgroup; AdipoR1 was positively correlated with indicators of inflammation in LRTI group.

Conclusion

Our study highlights that serum APN and AdipoR1 mRNA in PBMCs are associated with LRTI. Circulating APN and PBMC AdipoR1 have different significances in LRTI acute onset and severity.
Deep learning captures the effect of epistasis in multifactorial diseases
Authors: Perelygin Vladislav , Kamelin Alexey , Syzrantsev Nikita , Shaheen Layal , Kim Anna , Plotnikov Nikolay , Ilinskaya Anna , Ilinsky Valery , Rakitko Alexander , Poptsova Maria
Published: January 2025

Background

Polygenic risk score (PRS) prediction is widely used to assess the risk of diagnosis and progression of many diseases. Routinely, the weights of individual SNPs are estimated by the linear regression model that assumes independent and linear contribution of each SNP to the phenotype. However, for complex multifactorial diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and others, association between individual SNPs and disease could be non-linear due to epistatic interactions. The aim of the presented study is to explore the power of non-linear machine learning algorithms and deep learning models to predict the risk of multifactorial diseases with epistasis.

Methods

Simulated data with 2- and 3-loci interactions and tested three different models of epistasis: additive, multiplicative and threshold, were generated using the GAMETES. Penetrance tables were generated using PyTOXO package. For machine learning methods we used multilayer perceptron (MLP), convolutional neural network (CNN) and recurrent neural network (RNN), Lasso regression, random forest and gradient boosting models. Performance of machine learning models were assessed using accuracy, AUC-ROC, AUC-PR, recall, precision, and F1 score.

Results

First, we tested ensemble tree methods and deep learning neural networks against LASSO linear regression model on simulated data with different types and strength of epistasis. The results showed that with the increase of strength of epistasis effect, non-linear models significantly outperform linear. Then the higher performance of non-linear models over linear was confirmed on real genetic data for multifactorial phenotypes such as obesity, type 1 diabetes, and psoriasis. From non-linear models, gradient boosting appeared to be the best model in obesity and psoriasis while deep learning methods significantly outperform linear approaches in type 1 diabetes.

Conclusion

Overall, our study underscores the efficacy of non-linear models and deep learning approaches in more accurately accounting for the effects of epistasis in simulations with specific configurations and in the context of certain diseases.
A study on the variability and correlation of ocular biological measurement parameters in adult myopic patients
Authors: Zhou Fangxing , Chen Nan , Qian Hui , Gong Di , Li Kunke
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aims to explore the differences in ocular parameters among adult myopic patients with different degrees of myopia and axial lengths, and to investigate the correlations between these ocular parameters.

Methods

This single-center observational study collected clinical data from myopic patients aged 18–45 years who visited the Eye Hospital of Nanjing Medical University between January and June 2023. The data included laterality, diopter of spherical power (DS), diopter of cylindrical power (DC), spherical equivalent (SE), axial length (AL), central corneal thickness (CCT), flat meridian keratometry (K1), steep meridian keratometry (K2), mean keratometry (Km), anterior chamber depth (ACD), corneal radius of curvature (CRC), and axial length/corneal radius of curvature ratio (AL/CRC). Following predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, 1,026 eyes were included in the study. Patients were grouped based on SE and AL parameters into different degrees of myopia. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Welch ANOVA were used to compare intergroup differences. Spearman correlation coefficients were calculated to analyze the correlations between parameters, and linear regression and ROC curve analyses were performed.

Results

Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found among mild, moderate, and high myopia groups in parameters such as DS, DC, AL, K1, Km, ACD, CRC, and AL/CRC. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were also found in DS, DC, SE, CCT, K1, K2, Km, ACD, CRC, and AL/CRC among different axial length groups. Spearman correlation analysis showed a strong correlation between AL and DS, SE, and between AL/CRC and DS, SE, AL. Linear regression analysis revealed that the coefficient of determination (R2) for AL and SE was 0.699, and for AL/CRC and SE, it was 0.861. ROC curve analysis demonstrated high accuracy for both AL and AL/CRC in identifying high myopia, with an AUC of 0.952 for AL/CRC, which was superior to the AUC of 0.905 for AL (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study found significant differences in ocular parameters among patients with different degrees of myopia and axial lengths. There was a significant negative correlation between AL, AL/CRC, and SE. Compared to AL, AL/CRC had a stronger correlation with SE and higher accuracy in identifying high myopia.
Effects of biological agents on rhizosphere microecological environment and nutrient availability for rice
Authors: Zhou Hang , Yu Kaibo , Nie Lingli , Liu Lang , Zhou Jianqun , Wu Kunlun , Ye Honghong , Wu Zhaohui
Published: January 2025

As the world’s population grows, pursuing sustainable agricultural production techniques to increase crop yields is critical to ensuring global food security. The development and application of biological agents is of great significance in promoting the sustainable development of agriculture. This study aimed to investigate the role of JZ (compound microbial agent) and MZ (biological agent made from plant materials) in improving the rhizosphere microecological environment and nutrient availability for rice. This study found that JZ enriched Cyanobacteria with biological nitrogen fixation functions; spraying MZ can enrich some beneficial microbiota, such as Bradyrhizobium, playing a role in symbiotic nitrogen fixation. Meanwhile, JZ and MZ were found to affect rhizosphere soil metabolism and improve potassium and nitrogen availability. JZ may promote the degradation of fungicides in the rhizosphere soil environment. Overall, applying biological agents through optimizing rice growing environment to improve yield showed great potential.
Exploring the shared gene signatures and mechanism among three autoimmune diseases by bulk RNA sequencing integrated with single-cell RNA sequencing analysis
Authors: Liu Xiaofang , Li Bin , Lin Yuxi , Ma Xueying , Liu Yingying , Ma Lili , Ma Xiaomeng , Wang Xia , Li Nanjing , Liu Xiaoyun , Chen Xiaohong
Published: January 2025

Background

Emerging evidence underscores the comorbidity mechanisms among autoimmune diseases (AIDs), with innovative technologies such as single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) significantly advancing the explorations in this field. This study aimed to investigate the shared genes among three AIDs—Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) using bioinformatics databases, and to identify potential biomarkers for early diagnosis.

Methods

We retrieved transcriptomic data of MS, SLE, and RA patients from public databases. Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was employed to construct gene co-expression networks and identify disease-associated modules. Functional enrichment analyses and Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) network was constructed. We used machine learning algorithms to select candidate biomarkers and evaluate their diagnostic value. The Cibersort algorithm was and scRNA-seq analysis was performed to identify key gene expression patterns and assess the infiltration of immune cells in MS patients. Finally, the biomarkers’ expression was validated in human and mice experiments.

Results

Several shared genes among MS, SLE, and RA were identified, which play crucial roles in immune responses and inflammation regulation. PPI network analysis highlighted key hub genes, some of which were selected as candidate biomarkers through machine learning algorithms. Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve analysis indicated that some genes had high diagnostic value (Area Under the Curve, AUC >0.7). Immune cell infiltration pattern analysis showed significant differences in the expression of various immune cells in MS patients. scRNA-seq analysis revealed clusters of genes that were significantly upregulated in the single cells of cerebrospinal fluid in MS patients. The expression of shared genes was validated in the EAE mose model. Validation using clinical samples confirmed the expression of potential diagnostic biomarkers.

Conclusion

This study identified shared genes among MS, SLE, and RA and proposed potential early diagnostic biomarkers. These genes are pivotal in regulating immune responses, providing new targets and theoretical basis for the early diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune diseases.