bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolated Hypersomnia Due to Bilateral Thalamic Infarcts: A Case Report
Authors: MNAILI Mohamed Amine , BOURAZZA Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Thalamic pathology should be considered in patients with vague nonlateralizing neurological symptoms. Diagnosis of Percheron artery infarction is challenging and ofen made later in presentation due to lack of clinical awareness and the nonclassic stroke signs/symptoms on presentation. In this article, we report a case of bilateral thalamic stroke whose clinical presentation was dominated by a sudden onset of hypersomnia.
ANALISIS DETERMINAN YANG BERHUBUNGAN DENGAN KINERJA TENAGA KESEHATAN DALAM MENEMUKAN KASUS TUBERKULOSIS DENGAN INVESTIGASI KONTAK
Authors: Putri Adelia Meutia , Budiati Endang , Adyas Atikah , Setiaji Bambang , Karyus Aila
Published: July 2024

Indonesia menempati peringkat ke-2 jumlah kasus tuberkulosis tertinggi di dunia. Langkah yang perlu dilakukan dalam meningkatkan kinerja dalam menemukan penderita TBC dengan cara aktif adalah pelacakan dan investigasi kontak. Pada tahun 2022 case detection rate Tuberkulosis di Kabupaten Pesawaran menempati urutan ke-8 di Provinsi Lampung dengan jumlah penemuan kasus 585 (46,02%) dari target sebesar 1332. Penemuan penderita TBC  yang belum mencapai target membutuhkan kinerja tenaga kesehatan yang baik untuk mengurangi beban Tuberkulosis. Teori determinan kinerja menurut Hersey dkk menyatakan beberapa faktor mempengaruhi kinerja dengan istilah ACHIEVE (Ability, Clarity, Help, Incentive, Evaluation, Validity, Environment). Penelitian menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan desain cross sectional. Sampel adalah pengelola Program Tuberkulosis Puskesmas dan perawat homecare sejumlah 90 responden yang diambil secara total sampling. Pengumpulan data menggunakan kuesioner. Analisis data secara univariat, bivariat dan multivariate. Hasil penelitian diketahui bahwa ada hubungan ability, clarity, help, incentive, validity, environment, dengan kinerja nakes dalam menemukan kasus Tuberkulosis dengan investigasi kontak, dan tidak ada hubungan antara evaluation dengan kinerja nakes. Variabel help, merupakan faktor dominan. Saran bagi dinas kesehatan agar melakukan pelatihan terutama kepada perawat homecare, melakukan supervise setiap bulan kepada kepala puskesmas, mengintegrasikan dan menyelaraskan upaya pengendalian Tuberkulosis dengan lintas sektor dalam penemuan kasus Tuberkulosis dengan investigasi kontak.
Scope for Mediation in Indian Insolvency - A Close Look
Authors: Sivakumar Puzhankara , Krishnan Ranjith , Panicker Anju
Published: July 2024

Mediation, in simple terms, is a process by which a neutral third party facilitates a dialogue between disputing parties in the right environment to come to a mutually agreeable ground for settling the dispute, thereby maintaining cordial relationships through co-operation. The nature of this mechanism is adaptive enough for application to different scenarios and can evolve as a complementary process for litigation, thereby reducing judicial stress and overload. This article explores the practicality of mediation practices under the IBC regime.
Personal Guarantors to Corporate Debtor
Authors: Sahu Manmohan
Published: July 2024

Given the interrelated nature of the insolvency process involving personal guarantors of the corporate debtor due to shared debts, the Central Government, in November of 2019, introduced the provisions related to “Insolvency Resolution and the Bankruptcy Process of Personal Guarantors to the Corporate Debtors”. This legislative action provided creditors with the flexibility to commence proceedings against both personal guarantors of corporate debtors and corporate debtor (CIRP) simultaneously and thereby it improves the chances of recovery to the stakeholders of the corporate debtor and encouragement of cohesive approach in resolving insolvency issues. A notable ruling by the Appellate Authority in the case of SBI vs. Athena Energy Ventures (P) Ltd further confirmed that the IBC, 2016 permits the simultaneous initiation of the Corporate Insolvency Resolution Process (CIRP) against the primary borrower and its guarantors of the principal borrower, when guaranteed by the individuals.
Effectiveness of Consolidation of Bank of Baroda: An Empirical Study
Authors: Minz Wilson Peter , Bhowmik Goutam
Published: July 2024

Consolidation through Merger & Acquisition is not a new phenomenon in the Indian banking space. After the adoption of the Basel-III norms by the RBI in 2013, the process of consolidation became more relevant and imperative in the Indian banking sector. Under such situations, study on effectiveness of the ongoing consolidation drive has become necessary. With this end in view, the paper attempt to highlight the effectiveness of Merger & Acquisition on the profitability of Bank of Baroda. The study is based on the secondary data collected from various sources for the period 2015-16 to 2022-23. ROE of Bank of Baroda is measured by using extended Dupont analysis. Furthermore, paired t test have been applied to determine whether there exists any significant difference among the drivers of ROE during the pre and post-merger period of Bank of Baroda. The Extended Dupont analysis revealed that though there was an increase in ROE during the post-merger period; Asset Turnover and Tax Burden were found to be lower than that of pre-merger period. Paired t-test pointed out that there was no significant difference in ROE during the pre-and post-merger periods. Additionally, among the five drivers of ROE, only operating margin was found to have a significant difference during the pre-and post-merger periods. The present study will help to provide an insight into the profitability of the merger of India’s third largest public sector banks in India.
Financial Self-Efficacy (FSE) as a Mediator Between Financial Literacy (FL) and Financial Inclusion (FI): An Empirical Study in Indian Context
Authors: Bansal Garima
Published: July 2024

The objective of the paper is to investigate the influence of financial literacy (FL) level on financial inclusion (FI) of individuals residing in the National Capital Region (NCR) of India, with the role of financial self-efficacy (FSE) as a mediator. The study considers 384 individuals selected through convenient sampling. CFA and Regression analysis were used to analyse data using SPSS and AMOS 20.
The results indicate that FSE partially mediates the association among FL and FI. The study recommends that “FL aids in increasing finance related knowledge and in enhancing individuals’ skills so that they can make comparison and select better financial products which ultimately enhance FI”.
A majority of previous researchers have studied FI and FL; however, the role of FSE as mediator within this realm has remained unexplored. This paper is possibly the first attempt to bridge this gap.
Vinegar injections can be used safely to control outbreaks of crown-of-thorns starfish Acanthaster cf. solaris during the peak spawning season
Authors: Dumas P , Durbano A , Bourgeois B , Gossuin H , Peignon C
Published: July 2024

Concerns are mounting over the effects of crown-of-thorns starfish (COTS) (Acanthasteridae) outbreaks, prompting the need for integrated management strategies. Although direct control methods are short-term and localized, they remain one of the few operational tools that can be easily implemented by locals. Vinegar injections have recently emerged as a highly effective method; however, their impact on reproductive behavior remains untested. Here, we investigated the short-term spawning response of mature COTS to double injections of household vinegar. First, COTS abundances and reproductive status were monitored during a massive outbreak affecting New Caledonia’s reefs. In situ and laboratory experiments were then conducted to determine whether injected COTS would trigger synchronized spawning among mature individuals in close proximity. Our results indicated that injections had no significant effect on spawning behavior, even in densely populated aggregations (>4000 COTS ha-1). In the field, starfish exhibited ripe gonads with high gamete content (up to 35% of body weight) 3 d after conspecifics were injected. In the laboratory, mature COTS that were held with injected, decaying individuals in a confined volume did not expel their gametes after 2 d. This suggests that vinegar injections could be used at any time, even during peak spawning, without risking synchronized spawning in the affected areas.
Alúzie 2024 - Metodologické presahy literárnovedného výskumu – zborník rozšírených abstraktov
Authors:   Univerzita Pavla Jozefa Šafárika v Košiciach
Published: July 2024

Zborník rozšírených abstraktov z medzinárodnej konferencie Alúzie 2024: Metodologické presahy literárnovedného výskumu (15. – 16. apríla 2024 v Košiciach) vychádza vo finálnej fáze a poslednom roku riešenia projektu APVV-19-0244 Metodologické postupy v literárnovednom výskume s presahom do mediálneho prostredia a zachytáva vzájomnú komunikáciu viacerých príbuzných disciplín. Autori abstraktov predstavujú literárnovedné, translatologické, mediologické, kulturologické aj iné metodologické východiská svojho výskumu v rozmanitých témach, ktoré však spája motív presahovania a prepájania disciplín, metód, smerov či samotných diel, ako to už v názve konferencie avizuje hravý termín „alúzie“.
Do Slovak teachers teach outside? An insight into geography and biology teachers´ opinions on outdoor education and place-based learning
Authors: Kmeť Alexander , Mázorová Henrieta , Frolo Juraj , Šmida Dominik
Published: July 2024

This paper examines outdoor education and place-based learning from the perspective of Slovak teachers, focusing on their engagement with these methods, the barriers they face, and the locations they prefer for teaching outside. Through a survey of 303 educators across Slovakia, the study provides insights into the frequency of outdoor teaching, revealing a generally positive stance towards these activational approaches despite challenges, such as adverse weather, student behaviour, and topics identified by teachers as unsuitable. The research identifies key factors that influence outdoor teaching practices, including the support from school administrations and the accessibility of suitable outdoor locations. While the study acknowledges the broad benefits of outdoor education and place-based learning in enhancing student motivation and behaviour, it also points out the need for curriculum adjustments and improved teacher training to overcome the identified barriers. By offering a detailed account of preferred teaching sites and the correlation between teacher participation in outdoor education programs and their outdoor teaching frequency, this paper contributes to the discourse on effective outdoor education. It underscores the importance of structural changes within the educational system and suggests avenues for future research, particularly in evaluating the pedagogical impacts of outdoor education and place-based learning. The findings advocate for policy shifts to better integrate outdoor education into practice, highlighting its potential to enrich educational experiences and prepare students for future challenges.
Effect of Dental Hygiene Students' Self-Esteem, Self-Directed Learning, and Sense of Belonging on their Satisfaction with Clinical Practice
Authors: Lee Ji-Young , Park Mi-Jung ,   The Korean Society of Oral Health Science
Published: July 2024

Objectives: This study was conducted to determine the impact of several factors on dental hygiene students’ satisfaction with clinical practice.
Methods: This study conducted via an online survey of 138 dental hygiene students from Gangwon, Gyeongnam, and Busan, South Korea, from October 31 to December 15, 2023.
Results: The higher the self-esteem, the higher the self-directed learning ability, and the higher the self-directed learning ability, the higher the sense of belonging in clinical practice. The higher the sense of belonging in clinical practice, the higher the satisfaction with clinical practice. Factors influencing clinical practice satisfaction were found to be self-esteem and a sense of belonging to clinical practice.
Conclusions: To increase satisfaction with practice, educational programs that improve self-esteem, increase self-directed learning opportunities, and cultivate a sense of belonging in clinical practice should be developed and utilized.
Investigating the Influence of Drinking and Smoking in Adult Women on Existing Teeth Count and Subjective Oral Inconvenience: A Study with Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2022)
Authors: Yu Jin-Sil , Jeong Ho-Jin ,   The Korean Society of Oral Health Science
Published: July 2024

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between alcohol consumption and smoking on the existing dental index and subjective oral discomfort of Korean women.
Methods: The subjects of this study were women aged 19 to 64. The collected data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics ver. 21.0 (IBM Co. Armonk, NY, USA). The significance level of the statistical tests was set to 0.05.
Results: Drinking (p < 0.001) and smoking (p = 0.011) had a statistically significant influence on the number of existing teeth, and drinking(p = 0.009) and smoking (p = 0.009) had a statistically significant influence on the discomfort of chewing.
Conclusions: Programs that can provide women who are otherwise unable to obtain access smoking cessation clinics should be expanded.
CGM Induces Cell Apoptosis and Inhibits Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition in Malignant Melanoma Cells
Authors: Kang Hae-Mi , Moon Seong-Hyeok , Kim In-Ryoung , Park Bong-Soo ,   The Korean Society of Oral Health Science
Published: July 2024

Objectives: This study explored the effects of CGM treatment on malignant melanoma cells, specifically by focusing on its ability to induce apoptosis and alter the expression of proteins involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), a critical process in cancer metastasis.
Methods: To assess cell viability and proliferation rates, at MTT assay and colony formation assay were performed. FACS analysis was conducted to confirm cell apoptosis, and JC-1 fluorescent staining was executed. An invasion assay was performed to observe cell invasiveness, and protein expression was validated by western blot analysis.
Results: Our findings demonstrated that CGM treatment significantly induced apoptosis in malignant melanoma cells. Additionally, CGM treatment markedly reduced the invasiveness of melanoma cells, as observed in the invasion assays. Western blot analysis revealed that CGM modulated the expression of several critical proteins involved in EMT, thereby disrupting the EMT process which is essential for cancer metastasis.
Conclusions: The research findings indicate that CGM inhibits the growth of melanoma effectively induces apoptosis of cancer cells, and suppresses metastasis through EMT inhibition. Therefore, CGM demonstrates significant value as a potential cancer therapeutic agent.
Дробленый песок из горных пород для производства бетонов и строительных растворов во Вьетнаме
Authors: ЛАМ Танг Ван , ЧОНГ Во Динь , БУЛГАКОВ Борис Игоревич , АЛЕКСАНДРОВА Ольга Владимировна , ЛЯПИДЕВСКАЯ Ольга Борисовна
Published: July 2024

Исследована возможность использования во Вьетнаме искусственного песка, который получают путем дробления горных пород. В качестве мелкого заполнителя его применяют для производства бетонов и строительных растворов. Необходимость поиска путей решения указанной проблемы объясняется быстрым истощением в стране ограниченных ресурсов речных и карьерных кварцевых песков. Согласно статистике Министерства строительства Вьетнама к 2025 г. будет ощущаться острая нехватка природного кварцевого песка для производства строительных работ, а также для получения бетонов, строительных растворов и сухих строительных смесей. Поэтому тематика данного исследования актуальна не только для поиска эффективного экономического решения указанной проблемы, но и для улучшения экологии. Рассмотрены характеристики применяемых в настоящее время во Вьетнаме технологий получения строительных песков путем дробления горных пород, требования действующих национальных стандартов к показателям качества подобных песков, пригодных для использования в строительстве. Для получения качественных бетонов и строительных растворов подобрано оптимальное процентное содержание дробленого песка в смеси с природным кварцевым песком.
Зависимость гидравлического сопротивления трубопроводной арматуры от физических свойств жидкости
Authors: УСИКОВ Сергей Михайлович , ЖЕЛДАКОВ Дмитрий Юрьевич
Published: July 2024

Представлены результаты экспериментального исследования зависимости гидравлического сопротивления регулирующей арматуры систем водяного отопления от физических параметров жидкости, применяемой в качестве теплоносителя. Дана оценка зависимости изменения потери давления потока в регулирующей арматуре от температуры теплоносителя. Установлено влияние вязкости и плотности теплоносителя на гидравлическое сопротивление арматуры с учетом конкретной конструкции испытуемых образцов. Получена формула, позволяющая с достаточной точностью оценить изменение потери давления на регулирующей арматуре в зависимости от температуры и плотности теплоносителя, степени закрытия арматуры, а также исходной конструкции русла арматуры. Выявлено, что на потерю давления потока в регулирующей арматуре значительно влияет процесс вихреобразования, усиливающийся при уменьшении проходного сечения арматуры. Предложен коэффициент, учитывающий влияние количества и формы вихрей на потерю давления, индивидуальный для каждого образца арматуры, представлена методика его определения. Для инженерных расчетов приведена эмпирическая формула учета изменения пропускной способности регулирующих клапанов в зависимости от свойств теплоносителя.
Техническое состояние промышленных зданий, сооружений и их реновация
Authors: ВЕДЯКОВ Иван Иванович , КОНИН Денис Владимирович , АРТАМОНОВ Виктор Александрович , КОНИНА Софья Михайловна , АРЛЕНИНОВ Пётр Дмитриевич
Published: July 2024

Рассматриваются особенности промышленных зданий, которые строились в нашей стране по одинаковым технологиям, примерно в одно время, с применением одних и тех же строительных материалов. Представлен анализ результатов обследования и технического состояния зданий и сооружений, возведенных в годы активного промышленного строительства в СССР (1950-1970 гг.). Приведены типовые дефекты и повреждения металлических конструкций промышленных зданий. Показаны особенности расчета и распределения снеговой нагрузки по кровле цеха. Изложен опыт обследования железобетонных, каменных и кирпичных конструкций. Результаты обследования и расчета промышленных зданий показали, что их ресурс во многом исчерпан. Необходимо приведение конструкций промышленных зданий в работоспособное состояние. С учетом данных о прочностных характеристиках материалов и соединений стальных несущих конструкций, железобетонных плит покрытия, сведений о их техническом состоянии, а также результатов расчетов, представлены варианты усиления конструкций зданий и сооружений, построенных в эти годы.
Верификация численной модели кровли бассейна по результатам мониторинга
Authors: ГУСЕВ Георгий Николаевич , ЦВЕТКОВ Роман Валерьевич
Published: July 2024

Рассмотрена задача верификации численной конечно-элементной модели стального покрытия плавательного бассейна на основе деформационного мониторинга конструкций и измерения снеговой нагрузки. Представлены особенности конечно-элементного моделирования сложной пространственной системы стальных несущих ферм, связанные с историей эксплуатации сооружения и вариантов конструктивных решений, которые применены на объекте моделирования. Проанализированы сложности определения текущего напряженно-деформированного состояния объекта исследования и дана оценка различным подходам к моделированию, которые применяются на практике. Приведен анализ данных конечно-элементного моделирования в специальной программной среде для задачи квазистатического поэтапного нагружения сначала массовыми силами, а затем проектной снеговой нагрузкой. На основании сравнения данных моделирования напряженно-деформированного состояния в контрольных точках конструкции с данными, полученными на объекте посредством системы мониторинга деформационного состояния, проведена верификация математической модели и приведены данные об отклонениях вычисленных значений от измеренных. Сравнение величин показало работоспособность системы мониторинга, а также возможность использования численной модели для оценки текущего напряженно-деформированного состояния объекта.
Центры обработки данных: новые тенденции в архитектуре и нормировании
Authors: ДУБЫНИН Николай Васильевич
Published: July 2024

Центры обработки данных в России становятся все более востребованы, а развитие цифровых технологий и вычислительного оборудование требует совершенствования зданий, включая инженерно-технические и архитектурно-технические решения. Развитие их строительства предусматривает увеличение размеров зданий, комплексов и их энергопотребления. В связи с этим возникают вопросы безопасности самих объектов и окружающей застройки, обусловленные факторами взаимного отрицательного влияния, а также инженерно-технической и механической безопасности. Для решения указанных проблем и предупреждения отрицательных последствий строительства требуются нормативные документы по проектированию, которые в настоящее время практически отсутствуют. В связи с этим предлагается рассмотреть один из первых нормативных документов в данной области, который должен помочь проектировщикам и заказчикам центров обработки данных.
Tingkat Pengetahuan dan Sikap Ibu dengan Praktek Pemberian Makanan dalam Pencegahan dan Penatalaksanaan Anak Stunting
Authors: Irfan Delima , Daharnis Daharnis , Zadrian Zadrian
Published: July 2024

Stunting or stunted growth in children is still a global problem. The prevalence of stunting in Indonesia in children under 5 years of age is 22.3%. Meanwhile, in West Sumatra, the prevalence of stunting is higher than the national prevalence, namely 25.6% in 2022. Solok Regency with the highest incidence of 40.1% in 2021. This research aims to look at the relationship between knowledge, attitudes, and feeding practices in the management of stunted children. This research uses a quantitative approach with a Case-Control design. The research was conducted in Solok Regency, specifically the working area of the Sungai Lasi Community Health Center. The population of this study was mothers who had stunted children under 5 years of age (168 people), while the sample included mothers who had stunted children under 2 years of age (17 people). The sample ratio was 1:2 (stunting (17 people) and not stunting (34 people) with a total of 51 people. Sampling was done using purposive sampling. Data analysis used univariate analysis, and bivariate analysis using the Chi-square test. The results of the bivariate analysis obtained the mother's level of knowledge (p= 0.013) and the mother's attitude (p=0.035). In conclusion, there is a relationship between a mother's level of knowledge and attitude and feeding practices in managing stunting. Efforts are needed to increase mothers' knowledge and attitudes in preventing and managing stunting.
DNA structural features and variability of complete MHC locus sequences
Authors: Wassenaar Trudy M. , Harville Terry , Chastain Jonathan , Wanchai Visanu , Ussery David W.
Published: July 2024

The major histocompatibility (MHC) locus, also known as the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) genes, is located on the short arm of chromosome 6, and contains three regions (Class I, Class II and Class III). This 5 Mbp locus is one of the most variable regions of the human genome, yet it also encodes a set of highly conserved and important proteins related to immunological response. Genetic variations in this region are responsible for more diseases than in the entire rest of the human genome. However, information on local structural features of the DNA is largely ignored. With recent advances in long-read sequencing technology, it is now becoming possible to sequence the entire 5 Mbp MHC locus, producing complete diploid haplotypes of the whole region. Here, we describe structural maps based on the complete sequences from six different homozygous HLA cell lines. We find long-range structural variability in the different sequences for DNA stacking energy, position preference and curvature, variation in repeats, as well as more local changes in regions forming open chromatin structures, likely to influence gene expression levels. These structural maps can be useful in visualizing large scale structural variation across HLA types, in particular when this can be complemented with epigenetic signals.
Synthesis and characterization of chromium aluminum carbide MAX phases (CrxAlCx-1) for potential biomedical applications
Authors: Shahbaz Muhammad , Sabir Nadeem , Amin Nasir , Zulfiqar Zobia , Zahid Muhammad
Published: July 2024

MAX phases, characterized as nanolaminates of ternary carbides/nitrides structure, possess a unique combination of ceramic and metallic properties, rendering them pivotal in materials research. In this study, chromium aluminum carbide ternary compounds, Cr2AlC (211), Cr3AlC2 (312), and Cr4AlC3 (413) were successfully synthesized with high purity using a facile and cost-effective sol-gel method. Structural, morphological, and chemical characterization of the synthesized phases was conducted to understand the effects of composition changes and explore potential applications. Comprehensive characterization techniques including XRD for crystalline structure elucidations, SEM for morphological analysis, EDX for chemical composition, Raman spectroscopy for elucidation of vibrational modes, XPS to analyze elemental composition and surface chemistry, and FTIR spectroscopy to ensure the functional groups analysis, were performed. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated the high purity of the synthesized Cr2AlC phase as well as other ternary compounds Cr3AlC2 and Cr4AlC3, suggesting its suitability as a precursor for MXenes production. Additionally, the antimicrobial activity against Candida albicans and biocompatibility assessments against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), and HepG2 cell line were investigated. The results demonstrated significant antifungal activity of the synthesized phases against Candida albicans and negligible impact on the viability of E. coli and S. aureus. Interestingly, lower concentrations of Cr2AlC MAX phase induced cytotoxicity in HepG2 cells by triggering intercellular oxidative stress, while Cr3AlC2 and Cr4AlC3 exhibited lower cytotoxicity compared to Cr2AlC, highlighting their potential in biomedical applications.
The role of context in transactional English: spoken utterances and public signs in the UAE
Authors: Lanteigne Betty , Najafi Hedieh
Published: July 2024

Transactional and interactional English communications tend to be on a continuum rather than a dichotomy, with some communications having characteristics of both, yet others tending more toward one type of communication or the other. In general, written communication tends to be more informative (transactional) than spoken communication, which tends to include more interactional communication. Using insights from geosemiotics and linguistic analysis, this study analyzed spoken English-as-a-lingua-franca (ELF) communication observed in Dubai/Sharjah and written communication in public signs in Al Ain, looking at how contextual influences play a role in facilitating hearer/reader understanding of the meaning being communicated. From identified ELF communications in Dubai/Sharjah and photographed public signs with English text in Al Ain in the UAE, 10 spoken and eight written instances of transactional English were selected to be analyzed in terms of patterns in the role of context in hearer/reader understanding of intended meaning. Comparing/contrasting contextualization of these spoken and written transactional English communications revealed the influence of the context on hearer/reader awareness of spatiotemporal aspects, background schemata (social/societal, cultural, economic, and religious aspects), prior communications, and ELF mutual accommodation of meaning in terms of understanding and interpreting intended meaning, as well as identifying aspects of contextualization common to both spoken and written transactional English.
Diagnosis of Brugada syndrome affects quality of life and psychological status
Authors: Berne Paola , Usai Francesca , Silva Etelvino , Melis Irene , Fancello Tatiana , Onida Alessandra , Merella Pierluigi , Figus Francesco , Brugada Josep , Casu Gavino
Published: July 2024

Background

Chronic diseases have a negative impact on quality of life (QOL) and psychological health. There are limited related data regarding this topic in Brugada syndrome (BrS). We evaluated the effects of the diagnosis of BrS on health-related QOL and psychological status among patients and their relatives.

Methods

Patients with BrS and their relatives underwent psychological evaluation at diagnosis (T0), 1 and 2 years after diagnosis (T1 and T2) using questionnaires on mental QOL, anxiety, depression, stress, post-traumatic stress, and resilience resources.

Results

Sixty-one patients and 39 relatives were enrolled. Compared with controls, patients showed increased physical QOL (54.1 ± 6.5 vs. 50.1 ± 8.0, p = 0.014), reduced mental QOL (43.2 ± 11.8 vs. 49.6 ± 9.1, p = 0.018) and increased anxiety (9.9 ± 6.6 vs. 6.9 ± 7.7, p = 0.024) at T0; reduced resilience scores (3.69 ± 0.40 vs. 3.96 ± 0.55, p = 0.008) at T1; and reduced resilience (3.69 ± 0.35 vs. 3.96 ± 0.55, p = 0.019) and increased anxiety scores (16.4 ± 12.8 vs. 6.9 ± 7.7, p = 0.006) at T2. Relatives presented higher stress (17.63 ± 3.77 vs. 12.90 ± 6.0, p = 0.02) at T0 and higher anxiety scores at T0 (13.5 ± 7.6 vs. 6.9 ± 7.7, p < 0.001), T1 (12.0 ± 8.7 vs. 6.9 ± 7.7, p = 0.005), and T2 (16.4 ± 12.8 vs. 6.9 ± 7.7, p = 0.006) than controls. Female sex was significantly independently associated with worse mental QOL scores in patients at T0 (odds ratio = 0.10; 95% confidence interval = 0.05–0.94; p = 0.04).

Conclusions

The diagnosis of BrS impairs the QOL and psychological status of patients and their relatives. Female sex is independently associated with worse mental QOL in patients at diagnosis.
The existence of adrenal insufficiency in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Porntharukchareon Thachanun , Dechates Bothamai , Sirisreetreerux Supamas , Therawit Phonthip , Tawinprai Kriangkrai
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Infection with SARS-CoV-2 virus may result in long COVID, a syndrome characterized by symptoms such as dyspnea, cardiac abnormalities, cognitive impairment, and fatigue. One potential explanation for these symptoms is hypocortisolism.

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of hypocortisolism in patients with a history of COVID-19 pneumonia.

Methods

Cross-sectional study of patients who were aged ≥18 years and had a 3-month history of radiography-confirmed COVID-19 pneumonia. Exclusion criteria included current or previous treatment with glucocorticoids and use of an oral contraceptive. Adrenal function was evaluated using a low dose (1ug) corticotropin stimulation test (CST). Serum cortisol levels were measured at 0, 30, and 60 minutes, and baseline plasma ACTH was also measured.

Results

Of the 41 patients enrolled, the median age was 62 years, 17 (42%) were female, and all 41 (100%) had severe pneumonia at baseline. Eleven patients (27%) had hypocortisolism, as evidenced by peak cortisol of less than 402.81 nmol/l after low dose (1 µg) CST. Of these 11 patients, 10 (91%) had secondary hypocortisolism (median ACTH 6.27 pmol/L, range 4.98–9.95 pmol/L) and one had primary hypocortisolism (mean ACTH 32.78 pmol/L). Six of the 11 patients with hypocortisolism (54.5%) reported symptoms of persistent fatigue and 5 (45.5%) required regular glucocorticoid replacement.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that hypocortisolism, predominantly caused by pituitary disruption, may emerge after SARS-CoV-2 infection and should be considered in patients with a history of COVID-19 pneumonia with or without clinical hypocortisolism.
Spatiotemporal evolution and driving factors of vegetation net ecosystem productivity in Henan Province over the past 20 years
Authors: Zhi Lu , Chai Yuanlong , Sun Chaowei , Li Runsheng , Hu Tao
Published: July 2024

Net ecosystem productivity (NEP) is a crucial parameter for assessing the carbon cycle dynamics in terrestrial ecosystems. This study analyzed the spatial and temporal evolution characteristics and future trends of NEP in Henan Province over the past 20 years based on MOD17A3HGF, meteorological, and land-use data, employing the frequency counting method, trend test, Hurst index, and the center of gravity model. Various areas of changes in vegetation carbon sequestration were explored, and the driving factors were quantitatively assessed through correlation analysis, Sankey diagrams, and Geodetector. The results demonstrate that: 1) Continuous temporal changes in NEP in Henan, with annual average values fluctuating between 272.84 and 451.39 gC·m-2·a1, exhibiting an overall upward trend. 2) Spatially, there is a distinct distribution of NEP, concentrating more in the south and less in the north. While the study area generally experiences a dominant gradual enhancement of vegetation carbon sequestration capacity, the middle and north of Zhengzhou City exhibit a significant decline, which is expected to persist in the future. The migration of the centers of gravity of NEP over the past 20 years is characterized by stage-specific differentiation. 3) Among the various land cover types, forests have the strongest carbon sequestration capacity; however, cropland emerges as the province’s main source of NEP due to its extensive size. 4) The driving factors for spatial differentiation in NEP exhibit some temporal variability. Overall, climate factors and atmospheric pollution exert stronger influences, with the interactive explanatory power of the two-factor interaction being higher than that of the single factor. The results of this study can serve as a scientific theoretical basis for ecological policy-making and sustainable development in Henan Province.
Transparency and accountability in AI systems: safeguarding wellbeing in the age of algorithmic decision-making
Authors: Cheong Ben Chester
Published: July 2024

The rapid integration of artificial intelligence (AI) systems into various domains has raised concerns about their impact on individual and societal wellbeing, particularly due to the lack of transparency and accountability in their decision-making processes. This review aims to provide an overview of the key legal and ethical challenges associated with implementing transparency and accountability in AI systems. The review identifies four main thematic areas: technical approaches, legal and regulatory frameworks, ethical and societal considerations, and interdisciplinary and multi-stakeholder approaches. By synthesizing the current state of research and proposing key strategies for policymakers, this review contributes to the ongoing discourse on responsible AI governance and lays the foundation for future research in this critical area. Ultimately, the goal is to promote individual and societal wellbeing by ensuring that AI systems are developed and deployed in a transparent, accountable, and ethical manner.
Collagen concentration regulates neutrophil extravasation and migration in response to infection in an endothelium dependent manner
Authors: Calo Christopher J. , Patil Tanvi , Palizzi Mallory , Wheeler Nicola , Hind Laurel E.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

As the body’s first line of defense against disease and infection, neutrophils must efficiently navigate to sites of inflammation; however, neutrophil dysregulation contributes to the pathogenesis of numerous diseases that leave people susceptible to infections. Many of these diseases are also associated with changes to the protein composition of the extracellular matrix. While it is known that neutrophils and endothelial cells, which play a key role in neutrophil activation, are sensitive to the mechanical and structural properties of the extracellular matrix, our understanding of how protein composition in the matrix affects the neutrophil response to infection is incomplete.

Methods

To investigate the effects of extracellular matrix composition on the neutrophil response to infection, we used an infection-on-a-chip microfluidic device that replicates a portion of a blood vessel endothelium surrounded by a model extracellular matrix. Model blood vessels were fabricated by seeding human umbilical vein endothelial cells on 2, 4, or 6 mg/mL type I collagen hydrogels. Primary human neutrophils were loaded into the endothelial lumens and stimulated by adding the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas aeruginosa to the surrounding matrix.

Results

Collagen concentration did not affect the cell density or barrier function of the endothelial lumens. Upon infectious challenge, we found greater neutrophil extravasation into the 4 mg/mL collagen gels compared to the 6 mg/mL collagen gels. We further found that extravasated neutrophils had the highest migration speed and distance in 2mg/mL gels and that these values decreased with increasing collagen concentration. However, these phenomena were not observed in the absence of an endothelial lumen. Lastly, no differences in the percent of extravasated neutrophils producing reactive oxygen species were observed across the various collagen concentrations.

Discussion

Our study suggests that neutrophil extravasation and migration in response to an infectious challenge are regulated by collagen concentration in an endothelial cell-dependent manner. The results demonstrate how the mechanical and structural aspects of the tissue microenvironment affect the neutrophil response to infection. Additionally, these findings underscore the importance of developing and using microphysiological systems for studying the regulatory factors that govern the neutrophil response.
Effectiveness of a hybrid emergency room system in the management of acute ischemic stroke: a single-center experience
Authors: Kashiura Masahiro , Nakajima Chisato , Kishihara Yuki , Tominaga Keiichiro , Tamura Hiroyuki , Yasuda Hideto , Ikota Masashi , Yamada Kenji , Yoshino Yoshikazu , Moriya Takashi
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Hybrid emergency room systems (HERSs) have shown promise for the management of severe trauma by reducing mortality. However, the effectiveness of HERSs in the treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of HERSs on treatment duration and neurological outcomes in patients with AIS undergoing endovascular therapy.

Materials and methods

This single-center retrospective study included 83 patients with AIS who were directly transported to our emergency department and underwent endovascular treatment between June 2017 and December 2023. Patients were divided into the HERS and conventional groups based on the utilization of HERSs. The primary outcome was the proportion of patients achieving a favorable neurological outcome (modified Rankin Scale score 0–2) at 30 days. The secondary outcomes included door-to-puncture and door-to-recanalization times. Univariate analysis was performed using the Mann–Whitney U test for continuous variables and the chi-squared test or Fisher’s exact test for categorical variables, as appropriate.

Results

Of the 83 eligible patients, 50 (60.2%) were assigned to the HERS group and 33 (39.8%) to the conventional group. The median door-to-puncture time was significantly shorter in the HERS group than in the conventional group (99.5 vs. 131 min; p = 0.001). Similarly, the median door-to-recanalization time was significantly shorter in the HERS group (162.5 vs. 201.5 min, p = 0.018). Favorable neurological outcomes were achieved in 16/50 (32.0%) patients in the HERS group and 6/33 (18.2%) in the conventional group. The HERS and conventional groups showed no significant difference in the proportion of patients achieving favorable neurological outcomes (p = 0.21).

Conclusion

Implementation of the HERS significantly reduced the door-to-puncture and door-to-recanalization times in patients with AIS undergoing endovascular therapy. Despite these reductions in treatment duration, no significant improvement in neurological outcomes was observed. Further research is required to optimize patient selection and treatment strategies to maximize the benefits of the HERS in AIS management.
Genetic specialization of key bifidobacterial phylotypes in multiple mother–infant dyad cohorts from geographically isolated populations
Authors: Aihetanmu Sainaiwaer , Liang Zhixuan , Zhang Xueling , Luo Baolong , Zhang Huimin , Huang Jian , Tian Fengwei , Sun Hailong , Ni Yongqing
Published: July 2024

Little has been known about symbiotic relationships and host specificity for symbionts in the human gut microbiome so far. Bifidobacteria are a paragon of the symbiotic bacteria biota in the human gut. In this study, we characterized the population genetic structure of three bifidobacteria species from 58 healthy mother–infant pairs of three ethnic groups in China, geographically isolated, by Rep-PCR, multi-locus sequence analysis (MLSA), and in vitro carbohydrate utilization. One hundred strains tested were incorporated into 50 sequence types (STs), of which 29 STs, 17 STs, and 4 STs belong to B. longum subsp. longum, B. breve, and B. animalis subsp. lactis, respectively. The conspecific strains from the same mother–child pair were genetically very similar, supporting the vertical transmission of Bifidobacterium phylotypes from mother to offspring. In particular, results based on allele profiles and phylogeny showed that B. longum subsp. longum and B. breve exhibited considerable intraspecies genetic heterogeneity across three ethnic groups, and strains were clustered into ethnicity-specific lineages. Yet almost all strains of B. animalis subsp. lactis were incorporated into the same phylogenetic clade, regardless of ethnic origin. Our findings support the hypothesis of co-evolution between human gut symbionts and their respective populations, which is closely linked to the lifestyle of specific bacterial lineages. Hence, the natural and evolutionary history of Bifidobacterium species would be an additional consideration when selecting bifidobacterial strains for industrial and therapeutic applications.
Viability-PCR for the selective detection of Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum in live bacteria-containing products
Authors: Catone Stefania , Iannantuono Serena , Genovese Domenico , Von Hunolstein Christina , Franciosa Giovanna
Published: July 2024

To exert their beneficial effects, microorganisms used in live bacteria-containing products must be viable and present in certain amounts. In this study, we developed a viability assay based on quantitative PCR coupled with propidium monoazide for the identification and enumeration of viable Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum. In order to optimize the protocol, the thermal inactivation conditions for the two target microorganisms and the PMA concentration inhibiting DNA amplification from the dead cells while allowing it from the live cells were first determined. The viability-PCR protocol was then applied to analyze a commercial product containing the two microorganisms. The quantities of both microorganisms determined using viability-PCR in the tested product were significantly higher than those obtained using the standard plate count, suggesting the presence of bacteria in a viable but non-culturable physiological state. Moreover, lower amounts of the two microorganisms were detected using viability-PCR compared to those achieved using quantitative PCR, possibly because of the presence of dead cells in the samples. Our results suggest that the viability-PCR method proposed here is a suitable alternative for rapid and accurate quantification and assessment of the viability of L. acidophilus and B. bifidum and could be easily adopted in the quality control screening of live bacteria-containing products.
Unravelling the role of gut microbiota in acute pancreatitis: integrating Mendelian randomization with a nested case–control study
Authors: Qu Chang , Lu Jiongdi , Chen Yongyan , Li Jia , Xu Xiaoqing , Li Fei
Published: July 2024

Background

Gut microbiota may influence the development of acute pancreatitis (AP), a serious gastrointestinal disease with high morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to identify a causal link by investigating the relationship between gut microbiota and AP.

Methods

Mendelian randomization (MR) and a nested case–control study were used to explore associations between gut microbiota composition and AP. 16S rRNA sequencing, random forest modelling (RF), support vector machine (SVM), and Kaplan–Meier survival analysis was applied to identify significant gut microbiota and their correlation with hospitalization duration in AP patients.

Results

Bidirectional MR results confirmed a causal link between specific gut microbiota and AP (15 and 8 microbial taxa identified via forward and reverse MR, respectively). The 16S rRNA sequencing analysis demonstrated a pronounced difference in gut microbiota composition between cases and controls. Notably, after a comprehensive evaluation of the results of RF and SVM, Bacteroides plebeius (B. plebeius) was found to play a significant role in influencing the hospital status. Using a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, the predictive power (0.757) of B. plebeius. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis offered further insight that patients with an elevated abundance of B. plebeius experienced prolonged hospital stays.

Conclusion

Combining MR with nested case–control studies provided a detailed characterization of interactions between gut microbiota and AP. B. plebeius was identified as a significant contributor, suggesting its role as both a precursor and consequence of AP dynamics. The findings highlight the multifactorial nature of AP and its complex relationship with the gut microbiota. This study lays the groundwork for future therapeutic interventions targeting microbial dynamics in AP treatment.
Dissecting causal relationships between gut microbiota, blood metabolites, and glioblastoma multiforme: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Xuan , Han Lihui , Xu Wenzhe
Published: July 2024

Background

Given the increasing interest in the role of gut microbiota in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), our objective was to examine the potential causal relationship between gut microbiota and GBM, as well as the mediating effects of specific metabolites.

Methods

A bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted to investigate the associations between 196 microbial taxa and GBM. A two-step MR technique was used to identify significant mediators in this relationship. Subsequently, a mediation analysis was performed to explore and quantify the mediating effects of specific metabolites on the causal relationship between gut microbiota and GBM.

Results

Five taxa showed significant associations with GBM. Among them, family Victivallaceae [odds ratio (OR): 1.95; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.21, 3.13; p = 0.005] and genus Lactococcus (OR: 1.81; 95% CI: 1.04, 3.15; p = 0.036) were positively correlated with the risk of GBM, while phylum Cyanobacteria had a protective effect against GBM (OR: 0.45; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.89; p = 0.021). The mediation analysis revealed that the connections among family Victivallaceae, genus Lactococcus, phylum Cyanobacteria and GBM were mediated by Methyl-4-hydroxybenzoate sulfate, phosphoethanolamine and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate. Each of these accounted for 7.27, 7.98, and 8.65%, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study provides evidence supporting a potential causal association between certain gut microbiota taxa and GBM. The study highlights the central role of gut microbiota in GBM pathogenesis and their interactions with vital serum metabolites. This paves the way for potential novel therapeutic interventions in GBM management.