bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Vocal Development in Toddlers With Simultaneous Bilateral Cochlear Implants
Authors: Jeon Yesol , Lee Youngmee
Published: August 2024

Background and Objectives The purpose of this study is to investigate the vocal development in toddlers with simultaneous bilateral cochlear implants (bilateral CI group) and to compare their progress to that of chronological age-matched (CA group) and hearing agematched (HA group) toddlers who have normal hearing and typical development.Subjects and Method Thirteen toddlers who received bilateral CIs simultaneously before 18 months of age participated in this study. Twenty-six toddlers participated as the control groups (CA group and HA group). The spontaneous utterances were collected from each toddler during free play with their parents in the laboratory. A total of 2324 spontaneous utterances of 39 toddlers (13 toddlers in each of the three groups) were classified as either canonical vocalizations or noncanonical vocalizations.Results The bilateral CI group produced significantly fewer canonical vocalizations than the CA group. However, there was not a significant difference in the ratio of canonical vocalizations between the CI and the CA groups. There were no significant differences in the frequency and ratio of canonical vocalization between the CI and HA groups. In the CI group, the frequency of canonical and noncanonical vocalizations was significantly correlated with receptive and expressive language scores.Conclusion The findings of this study showed that toddlers with bilateral CIs make good advancements in vocal development compared to toddlers with normal hearing. However, toddlers with bilateral CIs seem to produce an insufficient quantity of canonical vocalizations compared to age-matched hearing toddlers. Information about vocal development following simultaneous bilateral CI helps speech therapists and parents recognize speech development before the use of intelligible speech in communication.
The Development of Expressive Language of Autism Spectrum Disorder Students from Their Teachers' Perspective
Authors: Bazuhair Maryam
Published: August 2024

Improving communication specially through expressive language is the main goal that students with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) need to acquire. Students with ASD can face difficulties when communicating with others because they have poor expressive language. They could not even form a full sentence without being trained. This study aimed to investigate the development of expressive language of ASD students from their teachers’ perspective. The researcher used mixed methods (qualitative and quantitative). The tools were a questionnaire and a semi-structured interview. The participants in this research were 30 male and female teachers from Yanbu and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The results showed that the expressive language of ASD students was very poor before joining speech therapy sessions. Using methods like group playing and modelling had a positive effect on developing ASD student’s expressive language.
Marine biophysical conditions influence the vertical and horizontal distribution of sub-adult Chinook salmon in nearshore marine waters
Authors: Smith JM , Burke BJ , Jackson D , Wells B , Beckman B , Duguid W , Quinn TP , Huff DD
Published: August 2024

The present study quantified the vertical and horizontal distribution of sub-adult Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha in nearshore marine environments. Depth-specific hook and line sampling was conducted along the Pacific Ocean coast of Washington, USA. Our analysis, based on 187 Chinook salmon from 1299 sampling deployments and 6616 hooks, revealed a wide distribution of salmon in nearshore marine waters, with distinct patterns associated with fish size and age. Chinook salmon that spent one winter in marine waters were more likely to be caught at greater depths than those in their first year at sea, and larger fish were found at greater depths than smaller fish. The probability of Chinook salmon capture varied with depth, showing a higher likelihood of capture at midwater (>15 m from the surface and >5 m from the bottom) and near (<5 m) the bottom compared to near (<15 m) the surface. Additionally, environmental variables such as sea surface temperature, sea surface chlorophyll a, minutes to low tide, and boat speed unimodally influenced capture probability. Our study contributes valuable insights into the spatiotemporal ecology of Chinook salmon, offering a more mechanistic perspective for their management and conservation. The identified relationships between environmental covariates and Chinook salmon distribution can be used to inform life cycle models used to manage and protect this at-risk species and the ecosystem processes that depend on them, particularly in the context of changing oceanic conditions and their role as both predator and prey in marine ecosystems.
Absence of predator control increases cod extirpation risk in a Northwest Atlantic ecosystem: inference from multispecies modelling
Authors: Rossi SP , Cox SP , Benoît HP
Published: August 2024

Atlantic cod Gadus morhua in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence (sGSL) declined to low abundance in the early 1990s and have since failed to recover due to high natural mortality, which has been linked to predation by grey seals Halichoerus grypus. Increased grey seal harvests have been suggested to improve cod survival; however, predicting the response of cod to changes in seal abundance in the sGSL is complicated by a hypothesized triangular food web involving seals, cod, and small pelagic fishes, wherein the pelagic fishes are prey for cod and grey seals, but may also prey on young cod. Grey seals may therefore have an indirect positive effect on pre-recruit cod survival via predation on pelagic fish. Using a multispecies model of intermediate complexity fitted to various scientific and fisheries data, we found that seal predation accounted for the majority of recent cod mortality and that cod will likely be extirpated without a strong and rapid reduction in grey seal abundance. We did not find evidence that reducing grey seal abundance will impair cod recovery by causing large increases in pelagic biomass so long as pelagic fishing mortality continues at historical levels.
From Evasion to Elimination: Enhancing IgA therapy through myeloid checkpoint inhibition
Authors:   , Chan Chilam
Published: August 2024

This thesis explores the potential of IgA antibodies in cancer treatment, presenting a promising alternative to the currently used IgG antibodies in immunotherapy. Although IgG antibodies have been the main antibody isotype used in cancer therapy due to their stability and long half-life, they are not effective for all patients, with some developing resistance. This highlights the urgent need for new therapeutic strategies.

IgA antibodies, particularly in their monomeric form, offer a unique opportunity. They activate different immune cells, including neutrophils, through the Fc-alpha receptor (CD89). Neutrophils are abundant in the body and can be activated to strongly induce antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC) and trogocytosis, which lead to the destruction of cancer cells. However, IgA antibodies face challenges such as complex glycosylation, complicating large-scale production, and a shorter half-life compared to IgG.

To address these challenges, we have modified IgA antibodies to improve their stability and production feasibility. This modified version, named IgA3.0, has shown promising results. In both in vitro experiments and mouse models, IgA3.0 antibodies demonstrated strong anti-tumor responses by effectively activating neutrophils upon binding to tumor antigens. Furthermore, we explored the optimal conditions for IgA therapy, revealing that IgA's effectiveness is highly dependent on the level of tumor antigens. A system allowing for the controlled expression of antigens on tumor cells indicated that higher antigen levels are necessary for IgA to be effective compared to IgG. This specificity could potentially lead to fewer side effects, as healthy cells with lower antigen levels would be less likely to be targeted. To address the limitation of IgA's shorter half-life, we investigated methods to extend it. We attached albumin or its DIII domain to IgA, leveraging albumin's ability to bind to the neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) and undergo recycling, thus protecting the antibody from degradation. This modification successfully extended IgA's half-life without compromising its effectiveness.

Furthermore, checkpoint molecules like CD47 on tumor cells inhibit immune responses by binding to SIRPα on myeloid cells, including neutrophils. Blocking this interaction can enhance the efficacy of IgA. Our research showed that combining IgA therapy with CD47 blockade significantly improved anti-tumor responses in vitro and in mouse models. This combination increased neutrophil infiltration and activity in the tumor microenvironment, leading to better tumor control.

In conclusion, this thesis demonstrates that IgA antibodies can effectively recruit and activate neutrophils against cancer cells, offering a viable alternative to IgG-based therapies. By optimizing IgA and understanding which cancer types benefit most from neutrophil activation, this research aims to improve outcomes for patients who do not respond to existing treatments.
Prínos profesora Ferdinanda Uličného pre slovenské vojenské dejiny
Authors: Segeš Vladimír
Published: August 2024

The Contribution of Professor Ferdinand Uličný to Slovak Military History The aim of the paper is to evaluate the scholarly work of Ferdinand Uličný, who has enriched Slovak historiography in various perspectives, particularly in the field of Slovak military history. Additionally, it seeks to pay tribute to this eminent living Slovak medievalist. The paper examines individual articles by Ferdinand Uličný, with a main focus on his recent monograph on the history of Slovakia. Furthermore, the author recalls past scholarly conferences where Ferdinand Uličný played a significant role, highlighting his contribution through inspiring introductory speeches and active participation in discussions.
Analysis of Students' Motivation to Learn Mathematics in Class XII
Authors: Cahyani Aqilla , Shalsabilia  , Novita Jelia
Published: August 2024

In learning, motivation is very functioning to encourage students to act, determine the direction of action, go towards the goals to be achieved, and select the actions that must be done. Learning outcomes will be optimal if there is motivation. The more precise the motivation provided, the more successful the learning will be. This study aims to measure and analyze the learning motivation in mathematics among students of Class XII Religion 2 at MA Darul Hikmah Pekanbaru. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study involved all students from Class XII Religion 2, totalling 18 participants. Data were collected through interviews, questionnaires, and observations. The findings indicate that the student's motivation levels are categorized into three levels: high (22%), moderate (28%), and low (50%). Further analysis revealed that the average motivation level for learning mathematics was 70.67%, which is classified as high. These results emphasize the importance of appropriate motivational strategies in mathematics education to enhance learning effectiveness. The study provides insights for educators to develop interventions that could boost students' motivation in mathematics learning.
Implementation of Problem-Based Learning to Improve Students' Mathematics Learning Outcomes Class X Computer and Network Engineering Vocational School
Authors: Darsono
Published: August 2024

This study aims to enhance the mathematics learning outcomes of Class X students by implementing Problem-Based Learning (PBL) at SMK Negeri 1 Bengkalis. The research method employed is Classroom Action Research (PTK), involving Class X Computer and Network Engineering (TKJ) students as the research subjects. The study was conducted during the odd semester of the 2021/2022 academic year, from August 12, 2021, to November 30, 2021, and consisted of two cycles. Each cycle included stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The findings indicate that applying PBL significantly improved students' mathematics learning outcomes, with an increase of 62.86% in Cycle I and 97.43% in Cycle II. These results demonstrate that PBL is an effective teaching model for enhancing student engagement and conceptual understanding in mathematics. Therefore, PBL can be a valuable learning paradigm to help students at SMK Negeri 1 Bengkalis study mathematics more effectively and deeply.
Development of Mathematics Tests for Higher Order Thinking Skills on Quadratic Equations and Functions
Authors: Sitanggang Magdalia Frisca Madelyn , Hutapea Nahor Murani , Kartini
Published: August 2024

This research aims to produce valid and reliable phase E mathematics higher-order thinking Skills (HOTS) questions on quadratic equations and functions. The research conducted by researchers in development research with the development model used, namely the type of development studies with two stages, namely preliminary and formative evaluation. The subjects of this study were students of class X SMAN 2 Karimun. In this study, the average score of the assessment of the three aspects (material, construct, and language) by the three validators was 86.16%, with a very valid category. In contrast, the average of all statements in the student response questionnaire was 88.33% with very good criteria and had a reliability value of 0.89 with a high category. This study concluded that the resulting 22 questions of Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS) mathematics phase E on the material of equations and quadratic functions developed have met the valid and reliable criteria.
All Change. Again
Authors: Rosie Michael
Published: August 2024

The Spring of 2024 saw further political turmoil in Holyrood. The Bute House Agreement between the Scottish National Party (SNP) and the Scottish Greens came to an abrupt end, and resulted in the subsequent resignation of Humza Yousaf as leader of the SNP and, thus, as Scotland’s First Minister. This editorial essay surveys the events contributing to the crisis and considers the prospects of a minority Scottish Government led by the SNP’s John Swinney.
Cui Bono? Scotland's Offshore Wind and a ‘Just Transition’
Authors: Kemp Kenny
Published: August 2024

Scotland's staple global exports will soon include renewable offshore energy, so-called green energy. Already, Scotland produces more electricity than it currently needs. The future story is about connectivity and the transformation of the National Grid which directs electricity supplies into homes and businesses. Scotland's offshore renewables ambition has been significant in putting the nation in the green energy spotlight and attracting the attention of international investment groups. The concept of a Just Transition – creating tens of thousands of new local jobs and employment – requires a workforce to develop the skills to become productive members of this new sector. A Just Transition will require a great deal of fresh thinking, but too many Scots are unprepared for the change, and too few are set to truly benefit. Who will be the beneficiaries of this revolution? Only time will tell.
Lifestyle Modification Practice and Associated Factors among Type 2 Diabetic Patients in Oromia: A Multicenter Study
Authors: Hussein Dursa , Geleta Tinsae Abeya , Girma Amanuel , Bekele Tadesse , Girma Derara , Ibrahim Seifu Mohammed , Lakew Meron Seyoum , Kumbe Bedo Megersa , Oyato Befekadu Tesfaye
Published: August 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels due to insulin irregularities. It is frequently accompanied by difficulties in the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. Despite the significant loss of life and resources associated with DM, management remains insufficient. This management typically involves pharmacologic interventions and lifestyle modifications (LSM). However, a majority of patients and caregivers tend to disregard LSM in the management of type 2 diabetic patients.

Objective: To assess lifestyle modification practice and associated factors among type 2 diabetic patients in selected North Shewa Public Hospitals, Oromia, Ethiopia.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in North Shewa Zone public hospitals among 407 randomly selected type 2 diabetic patients from September 1 to November 30, 2022. Data were collected using a structured and pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire entered into Epidata version 3.1 and then exported to SPSS version 24 for statistical analysis. Descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were done using SPSS.

Results: The overall magnitude of good lifestyle modification practice among type 2 diabetic patients was 41.5 % [95% CI: (36.7, 46.3)]. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis attending secondary, college and above education (AOR = 3.73, 95% CI: 1.56–8.92) and (3.995% CI: 1.71–8.90), respectively, urban dwellers (AOR = 3.19, 95% CI: 1.65–6.17), respondents who had no diabetic related comorbidities (AOR = 3.17, 95% CI: 1.85–5.44), and patients who got LSM education (AOR = 2.37, 95% CI: 1.44–3.92) were significantly associated with good lifestyle modification practice.

Conclusion: The prevalence of poor lifestyle modification practice was observed in more than fifty per cent of the patients. LSM practice was good among high educational levels, urban dwellers, those not having diabetic comorbidities, and those with diabetic LSM education.
A Community-Based Survey Exploring the Determinants of Invalid, Delayed, and Missed Immunization in Children of Urban Slums of Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Khaliq Asif , Ali Saher , Zahid Asima , Lokeesan Laavanya , Holmes-Stahlman River , Lassi Zohra S.
Published: August 2024

In children, the global burden of vaccines-preventable diseases (VPDs) and deaths can be averted by adopting timely immunization practices. Administering immunization to a child within 28 or 30 days of the designated immunization date is referred to as timely immunization. Besides timely immunization, immunization non-compliance (invalid or delayed or missed immunization) increases the risk of various forms of VPDs and death in children, particularly living in urban slums. This study was designed to examine the immunization practices and to measure the determinants of immunization non-compliance in children living in urban slums of Karachi, Pakistan. A community-based retrospective cohort was carried out from October-2018- to August-2019 in six different urban slums of Karachi. Immunization status of children aged less than 2 years was assessed by reviewing their vaccination card. Children from each slum were approached via 30x7 multistage stratified cluster sampling technique. Data of each child was analyzed descriptively and inferentially using statistical software, i.e., Jamovi version 1.2.25. The practice of timely immunization was observed in approximately half of children, i.e., 49.8% (n=457). The immunization rate at birth (first-visit) was 100%, of which 95.7% were timely immunized. Following the second immunization visit, a sharp decline in the immunization rate, including timely immunization rate was observed. Lack of knowledge, childhood illnesses, lack of interest, and vaccines unavailability were the main reasons of immunization non-compliance. However, an increase in paternal education was significantly associated with decreasing the odds of immunization non-compliance. A decrease in the practice of timely immunization is replaced by either invalid and/or delayed and/or missed immunization practices. Thus, timely immunization is crucial for preventing infectious diseases and promoting the health of a child.
Agricultural manufacturers taxation in the context of food security: environmental and economic aspects
Authors: Palianychko N. , Hrom V
Published: August 2024

The article examines the state, problems and prospects of taxation of agricultural producers. An analysis of the structural elements of the tax policy was carried out. The tax burden is calculated in relation to net profit, the area of agricultural land and arable land. The shortcomings of special regimes of taxation of domestic agricultural enterprises are identified. Directions for improving the mechanism of taxation of agricultural producers have been developed. The functioning of agricultural producers should provide for various state supports in the fiscal sphere, including the provision of certain tax benefits. The relationship between the taxation of agricultural enterprises and the effectiveness of their activities in the context of ensuring the food security of the State, as well as the environmental aspects of taxation, in particular the impact of taxation on the stimulation of environmentally friendly production and the use of land resources, have been studied. Recommendations have been made on improving the taxation system of agricultural commodity producers in order to increase food security and preserve ecological stability. The authors analyzed tax rates, benefits and burdens related to agricultural enterprises, which affect their financial situation and development. The article highlights the main aspects that determine the taxation of agricultural producers, and also takes into account modern trends and prospects in this area. The study helps to understand the complex aspects of taxation that affect agriculture, and also highlights possible ways to optimize the tax burden to support the sustainable development of the agricultural sector and draws attention to possible strategies for optimizing tax payments for agricultural producers aimed at increasing their competitiveness and sustainability in changing conditions market. Effective management of agribusiness is possible only under the condition of stability and predictability of tax legislation, which ensures the optimal tax burden on enterprises. The specificity of the agricultural sector requires special approaches to the taxation of business entities in this sector of the economy. Therefore, the problem of forming an effective system of taxation of the activities of entrepreneurial structures in the agrarian sector of the economy, including in order to ensure the appropriate level of food security of the state, is becoming actualized. Such measures consist in creating a favorable tax environment that promotes the development of the agricultural sector, increasing its production potential and increasing its contribution to the country’s economy.
Replication of the true knowledge of constitutional land law is the basis of sustainable nature management in Ukraine
Authors: Kovaliv O.
Published: August 2024

It was established that the root cause of the multiyear wandering of the Ukrainian «elite» in the search for ways and methods of forming the sustainable development of a new sovereign Ukrainian state, among the civilized nations of the world, was the hybrid manipulative pro-Soviet system of knowledge of the «departmental monopoly», which took root in the scientific and pedagogical environment of Ukraine and gradually grew into the «corrupt-oligarchic» system of interest in the entire space of social relations. It is substantiated that the communist majority of the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine already in 1992 (in the pre-constitutional period) in a hybrid way (divide and rule) spontaneously divided the land and its natural resources, which is the absolute property of the Ukrainian people, into three different forms of ownership of «land» (state, collective and private). The so-called land reform carried out in Ukraine on the basis of «collective ownership of land» has not been introduced into the constitutional field until now, but on the contrary continues to deepen, by introducing in an anti-constitutional way the contrived circulation of agricultural land (up to 10 thousand hectares in the same hands). It has been proved that the most important primary action as a factor in establishing law and order in the Ukrainian reality is true knowledge of the economic and legal essence of constitutional land pragmatism. The level of life activity in today’s Ukraine depends on the level of worldview education of its citizens, especially young people who study in the institutions of the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine. It is required that every educated citizen of Ukraine, as a fullfledged (de jure) co-founder of the state (republic) and co-owner of the land and its natural resources, especially young students graduating from universities, including agricultural ones, should have knowledge of constitutional rights regarding «land» as the main capital of the nation, which is the irreplaceable basis of everyone’s civilized and prosperous life. It has been proven that the presence of a personal founding (statutory) share in the capital of the nation, the size of which will initially be equivalent to more than 200 thousand US dollars, will become a real driver of the process of manifestation of the civil rights of a Ukrainian.
The Potential Activity of Kecombrang (Etlingera elatior) Leaf, Flower, and Stem Extracts on the Duration of Wound Healing in Mice (Mus musculus)
Authors: Zunnita Oktaviana , Moerfiah . , Apriana Rinal
Published: August 2024

Wound is skin tissue damage due to trauma from a sharp object.  Kecombrang flower extract is known to be effective in speeding up the healing of wounds because it contains flavonoids, saponins, tannins and steroids. The leaves and stems also contain these compounds, so this research was conducted to see the difference in the potential activity of the wound healing process of the kecombrang plant on the time of wound healing. Natural ingredient extracts are wound healing agents that can fight infection and speed up wound healing. This study used 5 treatment groups consisting of control (-) distilled water, control (+) Povidone Iodine 10 %, leaf extract 10 %, flower extract 10 %, and stem extract 10 %. The parameters observed were the length of the wound and the condition of the wound until the wound healed. The obtained data were analyzed statistically using ANOVA for complately randomized factorial designed. The results of the research show that extracts of kecombrang leaves, flowers, and stems have activity in accelerating the healing process of cut wounds and produce different effects on healing time. Wound healing time for leaf extract is 12 days, flower extract and stem extract is 10 days. The conclusion of this study shows that there is a very real difference in wound healing from treatment with the best treatment for wound healing is the flower extract with highest healing score of 6.42.
Aphrodisiaca Activity of Momordica charantia L. and Areca catechu L. Ethanolic Extract Againts Blood Pressure and Body Weight of White Mile Rats
Authors: Sofia Vivi , Aji Abisyahdan Satria
Published: August 2024

Advances in the discovery of herbal medicine and the increasing popularity of traditional  medicines have made accessto traditional medicines in the market increasingly easier. Bitter melon and areca nut are known to have many benefits and potential as natural medicine. Previous studies has shown the aphrodisiac effects of these two natural ingredients. This research aimed to  determine the additional effects, particularly on blood pressure and body weight of rats, when bitter melon and areca nut are administered as aphrodisiacs. Test animal retrieval techniques based on complete randomized design (RAL). Blood pressure was measured using the CODA® instrument on 25 white rats divided into 5 treatment groups, namely the control group (CMC Na 0.5 % 0.5 % w/v), the bitter melon extract group at a dose of 280 mg / kg BW, the areca nut extract group at a dose of 50 mg/kg 50 mg / kg BW, the mixed  bitter melon and areca nut extracts group (1: 1), and the X-Gra® group. Blood pressure profiles measured included systolic and diastolic blood as well as changes in rat body weight before and after treatment. The results of the study of systole and diastole blood pressure parameters and rat body weight in groups I, II, III, IV, V analyzed using the Tukey HSD method obtained results that were not significantly different (sig 0.05) in all groups. Based on this study, it was concluded that the aphrodisiac activity of bitter melon and areca nut seeds did not significantly influence changes  in blood pressure, systole and diastole, and  body weight rats.
Gamma-delta T-cell large granular lymphocytic leukemia in the setting of rheumatologic diseases
Authors: Gorodetskiy Vadim , Sidorova Yulia , Biderman Bella , Kupryshina Natalia , Ryzhikova Natalya , Sudarikov Andrey
Published: August 2024

Background

T-cell leukemia originating from large granular lymphocytes (T-LGL leukemia) is a rare lymphoid neoplasia characterized by clonal proliferation of large granular T lymphocytes expressing αβ or γδ T-cell receptor (TCR) on the cell membrane. γδT-LGL leukemia, accounting for approximately 17% of all T-LGL leukemia cases, is associated with autoimmune diseases. However, the features of γδT-LGL leukemia in patients with rheumatologic diseases are still insufficiently characterized.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 15 patients with rheumatologic disease-associated γδT-LGL leukemia were included. The patients were obtained from a single center from 2008 to 2023. Data related to clinical characteristics and rheumatologic diagnoses were collected. Immunophenotype evaluations as well as T-lymphocyte clonality (based on TCR-γ, TCR-β, and TCR-δ gene rearrangements), and signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT) three and STAT5B mutation analyses (by next-generation sequencing) were performed on blood, bone marrow, and spleen samples.

Results

All but one patient had rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In 36% of patients, manifestations of γδT-LGL leukemia were present before or concurrently with clinical manifestations of RA. Splenomegaly was observed in 60% of patients and neutropenia (<1.5 × 109/L) was detected in 93% of cases. CD4−/CD8− and CD4−/CD8+ subtypes were detected in seven cases each. Mutations in STAT3 were detected in 80% of patients; however, STAT5B mutations were not detected. Evaluations of T-cell clonality and variant allele frequencies at STAT3 in the blood, bone marrow, and spleen tissue revealed an unusual variant of CD4−/CD8− γδT-LGL leukemia with predominant involvement of the spleen, involvement of the bone marrow to a less extent, and no tumor cells in peripheral blood.

Conclusion

The mechanism by which γδT-LGL leukemia may induce the development of RA in some patients requires further investigation. Cases of RA-associated γδT-LGL leukemia with neutropenia and splenomegaly but no detectable tumor-associated lymphocytes in peripheral blood (the so-called splenic variant of T-LGL leukemia) are difficult to diagnose and may be misdiagnosed as Felty syndrome or hepatosplenic T-cell lymphoma.
Structural and kinetic characterization of DUSP5 with a Di-phosphorylated tripeptide substrate from the ERK activation loop
Authors: Imhoff Andrea , Sweeney Noreena L. , Bongard Robert D. , Syrlybaeva Raulia , Gupta Ankan , Del Carpio Edgar , Talipov Marat R. , Garcia-Keller Costanza , Crans Debbie C. , Ramchandran Ramani , Sem Daniel S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Dual specific phosphatases (DUSPs) are mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) regulators, which also serve as drug targets for treating various vascular diseases. Previously, we have presented mechanistic characterizations of DUSP5 and its interaction with pERK, proposing a dual active site.

Methods: Herein, we characterize the interactions between the DUSP5 phosphatase domain and the pT-E-pY activation loop of ERK2, with specific active site assignments. We also report the full NMR chemical shift assignments of DUSP5 that now enable chemical shift perturbation and dynamics studies.

Results and Discussion: Both phosphates of the pT-E-pY tripeptide are dephosphorylated, based on 31P NMR; but, steady state kinetic studies of the tripeptide both as a substrate and as an inhibitor indicate a preference for binding and dephosphorylation of the phospho-tyrosine before the phospho-threonine. Catalytic efficiency (kcat/Km) is 3.7 M−1S−1 for T-E-pY vs 1.3 M−1S−1 for pT-E-Y, although the diphosphorylated peptide (pT-E-pY) is a better substrate than both, with kcat/Km = 18.2 M−1S−1 . Steady state inhibition studies with the pNPP substrate yields Kis values for the peptide inhibitors of: 15.82 mM (pT-E-Y), 4.932 mM (T-E-pY), 1.672 mM (pT-E-pY). Steady state inhibition studies with pNPP substrate and with vanadate or phosphate inhibitors indicated competitive inhibition with Kis values of 0.0006122 mM (sodium vanadate) and 17.32 mM (sodium phosphate), similar to other Protein Tyrosine Phosphatases with an active site cysteine nucleophile that go through a five-coordinate high energy transition state or intermediate. Molecular dynamics (MD) studies confirm preferential binding of the diphosphorylated peptide, but with preference for binding the pY over the pT reside in the catalytic site proximal to the Cys263 nucleophile. Based on MD, the monophosphorylated peptide binds tighter if phosphorylated on the Tyr vs the Thr. And, if the starting pose of the docked diphosphorylated peptide has pT in the catalytic site, it will adjust to have the pY in the catalytic site, suggesting a dynamic shifting of the peptide orientation. 2D 1H-15N HSQC chemical shift perturbation studies confirm that DUSP5 with tripeptide bound is in a dynamic state, with extensive exchange broadening observed—especially of catalytic site residues. The availability of NMR chemical shift assignments enables additional future studies of DUSP5 binding to the ERK2 diphosphorylated activation loop.

Summary: These studies indicate a preference for pY before pT binding, but with ability to bind and dephosphorylate both residues, and with a dynamic active site pocket that accommodates multiple tripeptide orientations.
Geoelectrical and seismoelectric mapping of subsurface pollution in a closed landfill near the Tongo Bassa and Ngongue river, Douala Cameroon
Authors: Kevin Zebaze Djuka Mba , Yang Jidong , Djieto Lordon Anatole Eugene , Huang Jianping , Perabi Clotaire José Pako , Rapheal Onguene , Dirane Kengue Ngouene Jocelyn , Ahmed Mbouemboue Nsangou Moussa
Published: August 2024

Located in Douala V (Cameroon), Makepé Missoké is a lowland area that is influenced by the Tongo Bassa and Ngongué rivers. The site has a closed dumpsite, that operated from the 1975’s to 2003 for the disposal and storage of domestic waste produced in Douala. Geoelectric profiling (ERT) coupled with seismo-electric imaging was used to characterize the shallow aquifer of the Douala subbasin and map subsurface pollution. Fourteen geoelectrical profiles were deployed between June and August 2018 and March 2019. Along these lines, 49 sets of seismo-electric point data were collected in December 2021. A total of 118 wells drilled (2018) were used to obtain water level and topographic data. The aquifer geometry, hydraulic characteristics, permeability, lithology and leachate plume extent were determined. This survey enables us to visualize waste infiltration and migration within Makepé. The drilled wells indicate that the main lithologies observed are clay, sandy clay, sand, clayey sand and gravel. The leachate plume observed after processing the electric profiles had a resistivity signature of ≤ 10 Ωm, and high electrical conductivity are observed in some wells. The leachate migrates within the subsurface along a northwest‒southwest trend, where ground water pollution is observed due to leachate infiltration. This infiltration resulted in poor water quality indices in some collected samples. Such pollution is common in unconfined aquifers (< 50 m) due to the absence of a confining layer at the landfill. An increase in resistivity values with depth toward the northeast direction indicates progressive vertical dilution during leachate mineralization. This study integrated geoelectric and seismo-electric tomography with basic water chemistry analysis to effectively characterize the groundwater within the phreatic Quaternary/Mio-Pliocene aquifers of the Douala basin.
Research on prediction method of photovoltaic power generation based on transformer model
Authors: Zhou Ning , Shang Bo-wen , Zhang Jin-shuai , Xu Ming-ming
Published: August 2024

Accurate prediction of photovoltaic power generation is of great significance to stable operation of power system. To improve the prediction accuracy of photovoltaic power, a photovoltaic power generation prediction machine learning model based on Transformer model is proposed in this paper. In this paper, the basic principle of Transformer model is introduced. Correlation analysis tools such as Pearson correlation coefficient and Spearman correlation coefficient are introduced to analyze the correlation between various factors and power generation in the photovoltaic power generation process. Then, the prediction results of traditional machine learning models and the Transformer model proposed in this paper were compared and analyzed for errors. The results show that: for long-term prediction tasks such as photovoltaic power generation prediction, Transformer model has higher prediction accuracy than traditional machine learning models. Moreover, compared with BP, LSTM and Bi-LSTM models, the Mean Square Error (MSE) of Transformer model decreases by 70.16%, 69.32% and 62.88% respectively in short-term prediction, and the Mean Square Error (MSE) of Transformer model decreases by 63.58%, 51.02% and 38.3% respectively in long-term prediction, which has good prediction effect. In addition, compared with the long-term prediction effect of Informer model, Transformer model has higher prediction accuracy.
Variations in methylmercury contamination levels and associated health risks in different fish species across three coastal bays in China
Authors: Liu Tao , An Mingming , Chen Jingrui , Liu Yuanyuan , Chao Le , Liu Jichen , Zhang Mingliang
Published: August 2024

The growing atmospheric mercury (Hg) emissions in China have raised ongoing concerns regarding contamination in marine fish. To better understand the pollution patterns and associated risks, we examined methylmercury (MeHg) content in demersal and pelagic fish from four commonly found families in three geographically distinct bays along the Chinese coast. We identified significant spatial variations in MeHg levels within the same fish family across regions. Specifically, fish collected from the Beibu Gulf in the South China Sea consistently exhibited significantly higher MeHg levels compared to those from the Laizhou Bay in the Northeast and/or Haizhou Bay in the East of China. In contrast, MeHg levels in fish collected from Haizhou Bay consistently remained the lowest. Within each region, we observed significantly higher MeHg concentrations in demersal species compared to pelagic species. This trend was particularly evident in fish species including bartail flathead (Platycephalus indicus), small-scale tongue sole (Cynoglossus microlepis) and greater lizardfish (Saurida tumbil) from the Beibu Gulf (0.50, 0.21, and 0.18 mg/kg dw, respectively), as well as bartail flathead and slender lizardfish (Saurida elongata) from Laizhou Bay (0.09 and 0.12 mg/kg dw, respectively). By comparison, MeHg content in silver pomfret (Pampus argenteus) from all three regions consistently remained relatively lower than in other species. Using target hazardous quotient (THQ) calculations, we estimated potential health risks in local populations associated with the consumption of the studied fish species. Our results showed a lack of apparent health risks to local residents, as all THQ values obtained from the three regions fell within the safe limits (0.02–0.94). However, it remains important to conduct additional assessments and spatiotemporal monitoring that encompass a broader range of species and regions.
Visual analysis of hot spots and trends in research of meteorology and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome: a bibliometric analysis based on CiteSpace and VOSviewer
Authors: Dong Yonghai , Ding Sheng , Zhang Tianchen , Zhou Wenfang , Si Hongyu , Yang Chen , Liu Xiaoqing
Published: August 2024

Objective: We here displayed the global research trends of meteorology and hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) as a visual knowledge map by using bibliometrics and revealed the research directions, hotspots, trends, and frontiers in this field.

Methods: Using Web of Science core collection as the data source and with CiteSpace and VOSviewer software, we collected and analyzed the annual number of papers, cooperative relationships (countries, institutions, authors, etc.), citations (literature citation, literature co-citation, literature publication, etc.), keywords (emergence, clustering, etc.) of meteorology, and HFRS-related research data for the past 30 years, and drew a visual map.

Results: In total, this study included 313 papers investigating the relationship between meteorology and HFRS. The first paper was published in 1992. Globally, United States had the largest number of publications in this field, and the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention was the most influential institution conducting related research (20 articles published, and the mediation centrality was 0.24). Several small author cooperation clusters were formed; however, the number of papers published by the same scholar and the co-citation frequency were low. Cazelles Bernard (7 articles) published the highest number of articles in this field, and Gubler DJ was the author with the most co-citations (55 times). The most frequently cited journal was Emerging Infectious Diseases. In this field, the top three high-frequency keywords were “hemorrhagic fever,” “transmission,” and “temperature.” According to keyword cluster analysis, the top three themes were dengue, dechlorane plus, and bank voles. The timeline spectrum exhibited that dengue clustering had a good temporal continuity. The trend analysis of emergent words revealed that the research on “temperature,” “meteorological factors” and “Puumala hantavirus” has gradually appeared in recent years.

Conclusion: This study represents the first comprehensive exploration of global trends, hotspots, frontiers, and developments in the relationship between meteorology and HFRS, utilizing CiteSpace and VOSviewer software. The findings of this study are crucial for elucidating the influence of climate change on disease transmission patterns and offering novel insights for forthcoming epidemiological research and public health interventions.
Mendelian randomization analysis identified potential genes pleiotropically associated with gout
Authors: Wang Yu , Chen Jiahao , Yao Hang , Li Yuxin , Xu Xiaogang , Zhang Delin
Published: August 2024

Background

This study aims to prioritize genes potentially involved in multifactorial or causal relationships with gout.

Methods

Using the Summary Data-based Mendelian Randomization (SMR) approach, this research analyzed expression quantitative trait loci (eQTL) data from blood and renal tissues and genome-wide association study (GWAS) data related to gout. It sought to identify genetic loci potentially involved in gout. Heterogeneity testing was conducted with the HEIDI test, and results were adjusted for the False Discovery Rate (FDR). Blood cis-eQTL data were sourced from the eQTLGen Consortium’s summary-level data, and renal tissue data came from the V8 release of the GTEx eQTL summary data. Gout GWAS data was sourced from the FinnGen Documentation of the R10 release.

Result

SMR analysis identified 14 gene probes in the eQTLGen blood summary-level data significantly associated with gout. The top five ranked genes are: ENSG00000169231 (labeled THBS3, PSMR = 4.16 × 10−13), ENSG00000231064 (labeled THBS3-AS1, PSMR = 1.88 × 10−8), ENSG00000163463 (labeled KRTCAP2, PSMR = 3.88 × 10−6), ENSG00000172977 (labeled KAT5, PSMR = 1.70 × 10−5), and ENSG00000161395 (labeled PGAP3, PSMR = 3.24 × 10−5). Notably, increased expression of KRTCAP2 and PGAP3 is associated with an increased risk of gout, whereas increased expression of THBS3, THBS3-AS1, and KAT5 is associated with a reduced gout risk. No significant gene associations with gout were observed in renal tissue, likely due to the limited sample size of kidney tissue.

Conclusion

Our findings have highlighted several genes potentially involved in the pathogenesis of gout. These results offer valuable insights into the mechanisms of gout and identify potential therapeutic targets for its treatment.
Assessment of genetic diversity and population structure of U.S. Polypay sheep from breed origins to future genomic selection
Authors: Wilson Carrie S. , Petersen Jessica L. , Brito Luiz F. , Freking Brad A. , Nilson Sara M. , Taylor J. Bret , Murphy Thomas W. , Lewis Ronald M.
Published: August 2024

Knowledge of past and present genetic diversity within a breed is critical for the design and optimization of breeding programs as well as the development of strategies for the conservation of genetic resources. The Polypay sheep breed was developed at the U.S. Sheep Experiment Station (USSES) in 1968 with the goal of improving productivity in Western U.S. range flocks. It has since flourished in the more intensively managed production systems throughout the U.S. The genetic diversity of the breed has yet to be documented. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to perform a comprehensive evaluation of the genetic diversity and population structure of U.S. Polypay sheep using both pedigree- and genomic-based methods. Pedigree data from 193 Polypay flocks participating in the National Sheep Improvement Program (NSIP) were combined with pedigree records from USSES (n = 162,997), tracing back to the breed’s origin. A subset of these pedigreed sheep from 32 flocks born from 2011 to 2023 were genotyped with the GGP Ovine 50K BeadChip containing 51,867 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Four subgroups were used for the pedigree-based analyses: 1) the current generation of animals born in 2020–2022 (n = 20,701), 2) the current generation with a minimum of four generations of known ancestors (n = 12,685), 3) only genotyped animals (n = 1,856), and 4) the sires of the current generation (n = 509). Pedigree-based inbreeding for the full population was 2.2%, with a rate of inbreeding of 0.22% per generation. Pedigree-based inbreeding, Wright’s inbreeding, and genomic inbreeding based on runs of homozygosity were 2.9%, 1.3%, and 5.1%, respectively, for the genotyped population. The effective population size ranged from 41 to 249 for the pedigree-based methods and 118 for the genomic-based estimate. Expected and observed heterozygosity levels were 0.409 and 0.403, respectively. Population substructure was evident based on the fixation index (FST), principal component analysis, and model-based population structure. These analyses provided evidence of differentiation from the foundation flock (USSES). Overall, the Polypay breed exhibited substantial genetic diversity and the presence of a population substructure that provides a basis for the implementation of genomic selection in the breed.