bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasound Characteristics of Myometrial Invasion in Endometrial Carcinoma: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Cerovac Anis , Habek Dubravko , Hrgović Zlatko
Published: February 2024

Background: Both objective and subjective transvaginal sonography (TVS) methods are used to assess the degree of myometrial invasion (MI). Subjective TVS assessment of MI (<50% or >50%) may be as good or better than any objective measurement technique. The aim of this study is to examine the ultrasound characteristics of endometrial cancer (EC) in two groups of patients; with myometrial invasion less and greater than 50%. Methods: This is a prospective cohort study included 60 female patients with pathohistologically (PHD) proven endometrial cancer. Patients were divided into two groups, after surgery and PHD assessment of MI degree, into those with less and more than 50% MI. The degree of MI was performed by subjective assessment (<50% and >50%). Results: The frequency of anteroposterior (AP) diameter of EC greater than 2 cm was statistically significantly higher in the group of subjects with MI >50% (p < 0.00001). The volume of EC in the group of patients with MI >50% is statistically significantly higher, with a difference of 10.48 milliliters compared to the group of subjects with MI <50% (p < 0.00014). The difference in the average distance of the EC from the serosa is 0.11 cm between the two examined groups and is statistically significant (p = 0.0394). The kappa concordance coefficient for the subjective TVS method versus the PHD finding was statistically significant (p < 0.001), and was kappa = 0.72. Analysis of the diagnostic accuracy showed that the subjective TVS method compared to the gold standard in the diagnosis of MI >50% has a good diagnostic value: accuracy = 0.87; sensitivity = 0.77; specificity = 0.94; positive predictive value = 0.91; negative predictive value = 0.84; positive likelihood ratio = 13.08; negative likelihood ratio = 0.25. According to the subjective method of TVS, the degree of MI was overestimated in 5.9% of respondents, underestimated in 23.1%. Conclusions: The three dimensions, as well as the volume of endometrial cancer, obtained by TVS, are significantly higher in subjects with >50% myometrial invasion; there is also a significantly higher frequency of EC diameter greater than 2 cm in the group of subjects with >50% myometrial invasion.
Body Fat Distribution in Thai Reproductive-Aged Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Women Compared with Non-Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Women
Authors: Wongwananuruk Thanyarat , Kongcharoensukying Arisa , Pramyothin Pornpoj , Indhavivadhana Suchada , Tanmahasamut Prasong , Rattanachaiyanont Manee , Techatraisak Kitirat , Angsuwathana Surasak , Sa-ngaareekul Nutchaya , Pingkul Nichamon , Chantrapanichkul Panicha
Published: February 2024

Background: The body fat in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women is mostly centrally distributed and is associated with insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus, and hyperandrogenemia. This study compared the fat distributions of Thai PCOS and non-PCOS women, and it investigated the association between body fat distribution in PCOS women with glucose tolerance and serum androgens. Methods: The PCOS and non-PCOS groups each had 60 women. The body mass indexes (BMI) of the groups were matched. Blood tests and fat distributions were compared between group. Results: The mean age of the non-PCOS group was significantly higher than that of the PCOS group (30.85 ± 6.41 vs. 25.95 ± 5.16 years; p-value < 0.001). The glucose level after a 2-hour, 75-gram, oral glucose tolerance test (75-g OGTT) of the PCOS group, and its insulin resistance, triglyceride, low-density lipoprotein, total testosterone, free testosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate levels, were significantly higher than the corresponding values of the non-PCOS group. The fat distribution patterns of the 2 groups were generally not significantly different. The level of fat distributed in the arms was significantly elevated among PCOS women with abnormal 75-g OGTT values. The fat distributions of PCOS women, regardless of hyperandrogenemia status, did not significantly differ. Conclusions: No significant differences in fat distribution were observed between the PCOS and non-PCOS groups. PCOS participants with abnormal 75-g OGTT levels had a higher proportion of arm-fat compared to those with normal results. There were no discernible differences in fat distribution patterns between PCOS women with hyperandrogenemia and those with normal androgen levels.
Stigma in Elderly Females with Stress Urinary Incontinence: A Latent Profile Analysis
Authors: He Haochong , Huang Xiue , Yu Bijun , Liu Ye , Mai Shuyuan , Ouyang Le , Zhang Qiaoling , Yan Xiaoying
Published: February 2024

Background: Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) is a commonly occurring urological disorder in females, particularly among the elderly population. Females with SUI often experience significant stigma associated with their condition. This study aimed to investigate the current status of stigma among elderly females with SUI and analyze its heterogeneous subtypes. Methods: The Stigma Scale for Chronic Illness (SSCI) was used to survey 245 participants in two tertiary hospitals in Guangdong from November 2021 to September 2022. Latent profile analysis was employed to create a classification model, and variance and correlation analyses were conducted to assess the influencing factors. Results: A total of 245 elderly females with SUI participated in the survey. They had an average stigma score of 83.70 ± 13.88, consisting of self-stigma (48.64 ± 8.04) and perceived stigma (35.06 ± 6.80) scores. Latent profile analysis identified three distinct and comparable subtypes: the low-self-low-perceived group (14.69%), the high-self-medium-perceived group (49.38%), and the high-self-high-perceived group (35.91%). These subtypes exhibited statistically significant differences in all dimensions and the overall stigma score (p < 0.05) and were found to be correlated with the patient’s level of education, marital status, drinking habits, number of chronic illnesses, presence of diabetes, and frequency of urinary leakage (p < 0.05). Conclusion: This study demonstrates that elderly females with SUI face elevated levels of stigma, and it reveals distinct classification characteristics among them. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of providing specific support and attention to individuals with higher levels of education, increased fluid intake, marital status, severe urinary leakage, and diabetes.
The Role of CD8A in the Immune Microenvironment of Breast Cancer
Authors: Chu Jian , Tang Shan , Li Tangya , Fan Huiwen
Published: February 2024

Background: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive form of breast cancer (BC), and it is often associated with a high tumor grade, a younger age at diagnosis, and a low survival rate. Conventional endocrine and anti-HER-2 therapies are usually ineffective against TNBC, creating treatment challenges and resulting in a poor prognosis. Hence, new targets and treatment strategies for TNBC are urgently required. Methods: The GSE102818 dataset was used to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between primary BC and metastatic BC lesions. The Cancer Genome Atlas and the cBioPortal platform were employed to explore mutations in candidate genes. Utilizing the Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource (TIMER), the relationship between the expression of candidate genes and immune cell infiltration was assessed. Additionally, the cell-specific expression of the candidate genes was examined in the immune microenvironment of primary BC and metastatic BC lesions using the single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) datasets GSE118389 and GSE202695. Finally, the protein expression of the candidate genes in clinical TNBC samples was evaluated. Results: CD8A was identified as a hub gene in the DEG network and was found to be down-regulated in metastatic BC lesions. CD8A expression was highly correlated with the infiltration of CD8+ T cells, and elevated CD8A expression was correlated with improved survival. Interestingly, scRNA-seq data revealed that CD8A was down-regulated in CD8+ T cells in the immune microenvironment of metastatic BC lesions. Finally, the evaluation of clinical samples confirmed the down-regulation of CD8A in the immune microenvironment of BC lung metastases. Conclusions: In patients with metastatic TNBC, high levels of CD8A (especially in the immune microenvironment) are associated with a good prognosis.
The Role of the Notch Signaling Pathway in the Differentiation of Human Umbilical Cord-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Xing Wanhong , Yang Jianxin , Zheng Ying , Yao Lin , Peng Xin , Chen Yongqiang , Yang Chao
Published: February 2024

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (hUCMSCs) exhibit potent self-renewal and multilineage differentiation characteristics. They have garnered substantial attention within the domain of regenerative medicine owing to their therapeutic potential, such as in tissue repair, regeneration, immunomodulation, anti-inflammation, angiogenesis, wound healing, neuroprotection, and neuroregeneration. The process of fate determination is initiated by multiple signaling molecules. During development and tissue homeostasis, the Notch signaling pathway assumes a pivotal function in cell differentiation and the renewal of stem cells. A growing body of research has revealed that the Notch signaling pathway plays a pivotal role in hUCMSC proliferation and differentiation. The latest progress concerning the crucial functions of the Notch signaling pathway in maintaining homeostasis and determining the cell fate of hUCMSCs is summarized. Furthermore, the authors also summarized the mediators related to the Notch signaling pathway in hUCMSC differentiation, as well as the pathway alterations and mechanisms involved in hUCMSC therapy.
Deep-Learning Uncovers certain CCM Isoforms as Transcription Factors
Authors: Croft Jacob , Gao Liyuan , Sheng Victor , Zhang Jun
Published: February 2024

Background: Cerebral Cavernous Malformations (CCMs) are brain vascular abnormalities associated with an increased risk of hemorrhagic strokes. Familial CCMs result from autosomal dominant inheritance involving three genes: KRIT1 (CCM1), MGC4607 (CCM2), and PDCD10 (CCM3). CCM1 and CCM3 form the CCM Signal Complex (CSC) by binding to CCM2. Both CCM1 and CCM2 exhibit cellular heterogeneity through multiple alternative spliced isoforms, where exons from the same gene combine in diverse ways, leading to varied mRNA transcripts. Additionally, both demonstrate nucleocytoplasmic shuttling between the nucleus and cytoplasm, suggesting their potential role in gene expression regulation as transcription factors (TFs). Due to the accumulated data indicating the cellular localization of CSC proteins in the nucleus and their interaction with progesterone receptors, which serve dual roles as both cellular signaling components and TFs, a question has arisen regarding whether CCMs could also function in both capacities like progesterone receptors. Methods: To investigate this potential, we employed our proprietary deep-learning (DL)-based algorithm, specifically utilizing a biased-Support Vector Machine (SVM) model, to explore the plausible cellular function of any of the CSC proteins, particularly focusing on CCM gene isoforms with nucleocytoplasmic shuttling, acting as TFs in gene expression regulation. Results: Through a comparative DL-based predictive analysis, we have effectively discerned a collective of 11 isoforms across all CCM proteins (CCM1-3). Additionally, we have substantiated the TF functionality of 8 isoforms derived from CCM1 and CCM2 proteins, marking the inaugural identification of CCM isoforms in the role of TFs. Conclusions: This groundbreaking discovery directly challenges the prevailing paradigm, which predominantly emphasizes the involvement of CSC solely in endothelial cellular functions amid various potential cellular signal cascades during angiogenesis.
Anti-Ferroptosis: A Promising Therapeutic Method for Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Hu Rongyi , Shi Zhizhou , Yang Jie , Ren Yanxin , Li Xiaojiang
Published: February 2024

At present, many problems remain to be solved in studying the pathogenesis of thyroid cancer. Ferroptosis is a programmed cell death mode discovered in recent years, and many studies have found that ferroptosis plays a significant role in the prognosis and progression of thyroid cancer. The researchers showed that ferroptosis-related genes are essential in diagnosing thyroid cancer. Therefore, this paper summarizes some pathological and clinical characteristics of thyroid cancer and makes a series of combs on the relationship between ferroptosis and the basis and function of thyroid cancer, thus providing specific ideas for the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer.
aiGeneR 1.0: An Artificial Intelligence Technique for the Revelation of Informative and Antibiotic Resistant Genes in Escherichia coli
Authors: Nayak Debasish Swapnesh Kumar , Mahapatra Saswati , Routray Sweta Padma , Sahoo Swayamprabha , Sahoo Santanu Kumar , Fouda Mostafa M. , Singh Narpinder , Isenovic Esma R. , Saba Luca , Suri Jasjit S. , Swarnkar Tripti
Published: February 2024

Background: There are several antibiotic resistance genes (ARG) for the Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria that cause urinary tract infections (UTI), and it is therefore important to identify these ARG. Artificial Intelligence (AI) has been used previously in the field of gene expression data, but never adopted for the detection and classification of bacterial ARG. We hypothesize, if the data is correctly conferred, right features are selected, and Deep Learning (DL) classification models are optimized, then (i) non-linear DL models would perform better than Machine Learning (ML) models, (ii) leads to higher accuracy, (iii) can identify the hub genes, and, (iv) can identify gene pathways accurately. We have therefore designed aiGeneR, the first of its kind system that uses DL-based models to identify ARG in E. coli in gene expression data. Methodology: The aiGeneR consists of a tandem connection of quality control embedded with feature extraction and AI-based classification of ARG. We adopted a cross-validation approach to evaluate the performance of aiGeneR using accuracy, precision, recall, and F1-score. Further, we analyzed the effect of sample size ensuring generalization of models and compare against the power analysis. The aiGeneR was validated scientifically and biologically for hub genes and pathways. We benchmarked aiGeneR against two linear and two other non-linear AI models. Results: The aiGeneR identifies tetM (an ARG) and showed an accuracy of 93% with area under the curve (AUC) of 0.99 (p < 0.05). The mean accuracy of non-linear models was 22% higher compared to linear models. We scientifically and biologically validated the aiGeneR. Conclusions: aiGeneR successfully detected the E. coli genes validating our four hypotheses.
Cellular Advanced Glycation End Products Aggravate the Immune Response in Mononuclear Cells from Patients with Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Yang Liang , Qian Yuxuan , Lei Shixin , Sun Dongping
Published: February 2024

Background: Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease characterized by immune response mediated islet beta cells destruction. However, the mechanisms that cause immune response in TIDM are still under investigation. Therefore, the goal of this study was to investigate the role of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the regulation of the immune response in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from patients with T1DM. Methods: PBMCs isolated from T1DM patients and control subjects were used in the current study. Cytokines, AGEs related to glyoxalase 1 (GLO1), methylglyoxal (MG)-derived AGEs were assessed longitudinally. Results: The results of published T1DM PBMC microarray datasets using random-effects meta-analysis models revealed immune responses in the PBMCs of patients with T1DM compared with control subjects. Moreover, the activity of GLO1, which is the key MG-metabolizing enzyme, was significantly reduced in PBMCs from T1DM patients. We confirmed that, compared to the control subjects, GLO1 expression and activity were markedly decreased and MG-derived AGEs were significantly accumulated in the PBMCs from T1DM patients. In addition, phytohemagglutinin stimulated the secretion of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interferon gamma (IFN-γ) was positively correlated with the accumulation of cellular AGEs. Therefore, the exposure of PBMCs from control subjects to MG and a GLO1 inhibitor enhanced the accumulation of cellular MG-derived AGEs and the secretion of TNF-α and IFN-γ. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that the accumulation of cellular AGEs causes a decline in the immune response of patients with T1DM.
Clinical Characteristics and Relevance of Dizziness in Patients with de novo Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Kwon Kyum-Yil , You Jihwan , Kim Rae On , Lee Eun Ji
Published: February 2024

Background: The purpose of this study was to determine the detailed characteristics of dizziness in patients with de novo Parkinson’s disease (PD) and the clinical implications of dizziness. Methods: Ninety-three people with de novo PD were enrolled between July 2017 and August 2022 for this retrospective study. Using each representative scale, various motor and non-motor symptoms were assessed. In addition, clinical manifestations of dizziness in those patients, including its presence, type, frequency, and duration of occurrence, were investigated. Results: Thirty-nine patients with de novo PD reported dizziness, with presyncope being the most common (38%). The most common frequency was several times a week (51%). The most common duration was a few seconds (67%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that dizziness was more common in women than in men {odds ratio (OR): 3.3601, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.0820–10.4351, p = 0.0361}. Dizziness was significantly related to non-motor symptoms of low global cognition (OR: 0.8372, 95% CI: 0.7285–0.9622, p = 0.0123) and severe autonomic dysfunction (OR: 1.1112, 95% CI: 1.0297–1.1991, p = 0.0067). A post-hoc analysis revealed that dizziness was only associated with cardiovascular dysautonomia (adjusted OR: 10.2377, 95% CI: 3.3053–31.7098, p < 0.0001) among several domains of dysautonomia. Conclusions: About 42% of patients with de novo PD complained of dizziness. The occurrence of dizziness in those people was highly associated with female gender women, cognitive impairment, and cardiovascular dysautonomia. These results suggest that clinicians should pay close attention when patients with PD complain of dizziness.
No Effects of Decanoic Acid on Locomotor Activity and Antioxidant Defences in an Experimental Animal Model of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Carreón-Trujillo Sonia , Corona Juan Carlos
Published: February 2024

Background: Medium-chain triglycerides such as decanoic acid (C10), which is one of the fatty acids that constitute dietary fats, are of substantial interest for their potential therapeutic effects on neuropsychiatric disorders. However, the effects of C10 on attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) remain to be studied. We explored the effects of C10 on behavioural activity and antioxidant defences in an experimental animal model of ADHD. Methods: To establish an experimental animal model of ADHD, neonatal rats were subjected to unilateral striatal lesions using 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). The rats sequentially underwent open-field and Y-maze tests before treatment [postnatal day 25 (PN25)]. After the subcutaneous administration of either vehicle or C10 solution (250 mg/kg) for 14 days, the behavioural tests were repeated on PN39. Next, we examined the effects of C10 on the expression of the constitutive antioxidant enzymes catalase and glutathione peroxidase-1/2 and the phase II transcription factor nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 in four different regions of the rat brain. Results: Injection of 6-OHDA unilaterally into the striatum resulted in elevated locomotor activity on PN39. The administration of C10 for a period of 14 days did not alter the locomotor hyperactivity. Moreover, the administration of C10 had no significant effects on the expression of proteins related to antioxidant defences in the hippocampus, prefrontal cortex, striatum or cerebellum of both control and lesioned rats. Conclusions: The lack of significant effects of C10 in our study may depend on the dose and duration of C10 administration. Further exhaustive studies are needed to verify the efficacy and effects of different doses and treatment durations of C10 and to explore the underlying mechanisms.
Association between Dyslipidaemia and Cognitive Impairment: A Meta-Analysis of Cohort and Case-Control Studies
Authors: Zhao Yue , Zhang Hongxia , Cheng Jie , Zou Yuting , Zhang Daiying , Duan Xiaoxia
Published: February 2024

Background: This study explored the specific relationship between different lipid indicators and cognitive impairment and aimed to provide a reference for implementing targeted lipid regulation measures to prevent and alleviate cognitive impairment. Methods: We searched three databases (PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science) for literature related to hyperlipidaemia, lipid levels, and cognitive impairment, and used the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale to evaluate the quality of the identified literature. A meta-analysis was performed using RevMan 5.4, and the combined effect size ratio using a random-effects model (odds ratio [OR] and 95% confidence interval [CI]) was used to evaluate the association between dyslipidaemia and cognitive impairment. Results: Among initially identified 2247 papers, we ultimately included 18 studies involving a total of 758,074 patients. The results of the meta-analysis revealed that patients with hyperlipidaemia had a 1.23-fold higher risk of cognitive impairment than those with normal lipid levels (OR = 1.23, 95% CI: 1.04–1.47, p = 0.02). Further subgroup analysis showed that elevated total cholesterol (TC) levels increased the risk of cognitive impairment by 1.59-fold (OR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.27–2.01, p < 0.0001) and were more significant in older or male patients. Moreover, elevated triglyceride levels were inversely correlated with cognitive disorders, whereas elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were unrelated to cognitive impairment risk. Conclusions: Dyslipidaemia was strongly associated with cognitive impairment, and elevated TC levels were a risk factor for cognitive impairment. Furthermore, the damaging effects of elevated TC levels on cognition were more pronounced in older and male populations.
FABP2 is Involved in Intestinal α-Synuclein Pathologies
Authors: Sekimori Tomoki , Fukunaga Kohji , Oizumi Hideki , Baba Toru , Totsune Tomoko , Takeda Atsushi , Sasaki Takuya , Kawahata Ichiro
Published: February 2024

Background: Recently, the hypothesis that pathological α-Synuclein propagates from the gut to the brain has gained attention. Although results from animal studies support this hypothesis, the specific mechanism remains unclear. This study focused on the intestinal fatty acid-binding protein (FABP2), which is one of the subtypes of fatty acid binding proteins localizing in the gut, with the hypothesis that FABP2 is involved in the gut-to-brain propagation of α-synuclein. The aim of this study was to clarify the pathological significance of FABP2 in the pathogenesis and progression of synucleinopathy. Methods: We examined the relationship between FABP2 and α-Synuclein in the uptake of α-Synuclein into enteric neurons using primary cultured neurons derived from mouse small intestinal myenteric plexus. We also quantified disease-related protein concentrations in the plasma of patients with synucleinopathy and related diseases, and analyzed the relationship between plasma FABP2 level and progression of the disease. Results: Experiments on α-Synuclein uptake in primary cultured enteric neurons showed that following uptake, α-Synuclein was concentrated in areas where FABP2 was localized. Moreover, analysis of the plasma protein levels of patients with Parkinson’s disease revealed that the plasma FABP2 and α-Synuclein levels fluctuate with disease duration. The FABP2/α-Synuclein ratio fluctuated more markedly than either FABP2 or α-Synuclein alone, depending on the duration of disease, indicating a higher discriminant ability of early Parkinson’s disease patients from healthy patients. Conclusions: These results suggest that FABP2 potentially contributes to the pathogenesis and progression of α-synucleinopathies. Thus, FABP2 is an important molecule that has the potential to elucidate the consistent mechanisms that lead from the prodromal phase to the onset and subsequent progression of synucleinopathies.
Effect of Empagliflozin Treatment on Ventricular Repolarization Parameters
Authors: Ozturk Fatih , Tuner Hasim , Atici Adem , Ali Barman Hasan
Published: February 2024

Background: An example of a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitor is Empagliflozin. It is a new medicine for treating type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), but there is increasing interest in how empagliflozin affects the heart. This study aims to examine the impact of empagliflozin treatment on ventricular repolarization parameters in T2DM patients. Methods: T2DM patients were included in a prospective study. Measurements of ventricular repolarization parameters, including QT interval, corrected QT interval (QTc), QT dispersion (QTd), Tpeak-to-Tend interval (Tp-e), and Tpeak-to-Tend interval corrected for QTc (Tp-e/QTc), were obtained before initiating empagliflozin treatment and six months following treatment initiation. Statistical analysis was performed to assess changes in these parameters. Results: In this study, 95 patients were diagnosed with T2DM out of 177 patients. Among T2DM patients, 40 were male (42%) compared to 48% males in controls (p = 0.152). The average age of the T2DM patients was 60.2 ± 9.0 years, compared to 58.2 ± 9.2 years in the control group (p = 0.374). When comparing pre- and post-treatment measurements of parameters representing ventricular repolarization (QT 408.5 ± 22.9/378.8 ± 14.1, p < 0.001; QTc 427.0 ± 20.5/404.7 ± 13.8, p < 0.001; QTd 52.1 ± 1.2/47.8 ± 1.7, p < 0.001; Tp-e 82.3 ± 8.7/67.1 ± 5.1, p < 0.001; Tp-e/QTc 0.19 ± 0.01/0.17 ± 0.01, p < 0.001 (respectively)), statistically significant improvements were observed. A statistically significant dose-dependent decline in the magnitude of change in the QTc parameter (19.4/29.6, p = 0.038) was also observed. Conclusions: According to these results, empagliflozin may decrease the risk of potential ventricular arrhythmias.
A Novel Postconditioning Approach Attenuates Myocardial Ischaemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rats
Authors: Zhao Lin , Liu Yanghong , Chen Ye , Yu Zaixin , Luo Hui
Published: February 2024

Background: Ischaemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) is the damage that occurs when blood flow is restored to a tissue or organ after a period of ischaemia. Postconditioning is a therapeutic strategy aimed at reducing the tissue damage caused by IRI. Postconditioning in rodents is a useful tool to investigate the potential mechanisms of postconditioning. Currently, there is no convenient approach for postconditioning rodents. Methods: Rats were subjected to a balloon postconditioning procedure. A balloon was used to control the flow in the vessel. This allowed for easy and precise manipulation of perfusion. Evans blue and triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) double staining were used to determine the infarct size. Apoptosis in the myocardium was visualised and quantified by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL). Western blotting was performed to assess the expression of key apoptotic proteins, i.e., B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2 Associated X (Bax), and cleaved caspase-3. Results: The balloon control approach to postconditioning provided accurate control of coronary blood flow and simplified the postconditioning manipulation. Infarct size reduction was observed in IRI rats after post-conditioning. There was a decrease in cardiac apoptosis in IRI rats after conditioning, as detected by TUNEL staining. IRI rats showed increased Bcl-2 levels and decreased Bax and cleaved caspase-3 levels in the myocardium. Conclusions: Postconditioning was successfully applied in rats using this novel approach. Postconditioning with this approach reduced infarct size and apoptosis in the area at risk.
Current Perspectives on Atrial Amyloidosis: A Narrative Review
Authors: Tana Marco , Tana Claudio , Guglielmi Maria Domenica , Stefanelli Arianna , Mantini Cesare , Porreca Ettore
Published: February 2024

Amyloidosis is a systemic disease caused by low molecular weight protein accumulation in the extracellular space, which can lead to different degrees of damage, depending of the organ or tissue involved. The condition is defined cardiac amyloidosis (CA) when heart is affected, and it is associated with an unfavorable outcome. Different types of CA have been recognized, the most common (98%) are those associated with deposition of light chain (AL-CA), and the form secondary to transthyretin deposit. The latter can be classified into two types, a wild type (transthyretin amyloidosis wild type (ATTRwt)-CA), which mainly affects older adults, and the hereditary or variant type (ATTRh-CA or ATTRv-CA), which instead affects more often young people and is associated with genetic alterations. The atrial involvement can be isolated or linked to CA with a nonspecific clinical presentation represented by new onset atrial fibrillation (AF), diastolic dysfunction and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction, or thromboembolism and stroke. Untreated patients have a median survival rate of 9 years for AL-CA and 7 years for ATTR-CA. By contrast, AL-CA and ATTR-CA treated patients have a median survival rate of 24 and 10 years, respectively. Atrial involvement in CA is a common but poor studied event, and alterations of performance can anticipate the anatomical damage. Recently, numerous advances have been made in the diagnostic field with improvements in the available techniques. An early diagnosis therefore allows a more effective therapeutic strategy with a positive impact on prognosis and mortality rate. A multimodality approach to the diagnosis of atrial involvement from CA is therefore recommended, and standard echocardiography, advanced Doppler-echocardiography (DE) and cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) can be useful to detect early signs of CA and to estabilish an appropriate treatment.
Logistics Distribution Route Optimization in Artificial Intelligence and Internet of Things Environment
Authors:   School Of Economics and Management, Jiaozuo University, Liu Qianfei
Published: February 2024

With the increasing challenges facing the logistics industry, especially in meeting the growing demand for distribution efficiency and accuracy, the use of modern technology to optimize logistics distribution routes has become a key issue. This study explores the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT) technologies in the optimization of logistics distribution routes. The research first focused on collecting and processing logistics-related data, including historical delivery records, real-time traffic data, and cargo tracking information. Then, by building optimization models based on AI and IoT technologies, the study explores the potential of these technologies to improve logistics distribution efficiency and reduce costs. In addition, through cost-benefit analysis and discussion of challenge-coping strategies, this study not only verified the effectiveness of the proposed scheme in theory but also demonstrated its feasibility in practical application. Finally, the study presents implications for industry practice and recommendations for future research, emphasizing the importance of continuous technology evaluation and adaptation to market changes.
The Garden of Forking Paths: Options for Non-Western Societies in the Age of AI
Authors: Yu Chen
Published: February 2024

In the epoch where artificial intelligence (AI) has become the harbinger of civilization's progress, the integration of cultural inheritance and identity into AI development emerges as a pivotal concern, especially for non-Western societies. "The Garden of Forking Paths: Options for Non-Western Societies in the Age of AI" explores the nuanced landscape that these societies navigate in the age of AI, juxtaposing the risks of cultural homogenization against the potential for cultural reinforcement through AI. The article delves into the metaphor of forking paths to depict the complex decisions and strategies that non-Western countries face in preserving their cultural uniqueness amidst the global AI revolution. It outlines a series of strategic interventions, including the formulation of culturally-rooted AI ethics guidelines, leveraging AI to promote heritage and languages, fostering participatory AI development, creating indigenized AI solutions, and encouraging cross-cultural AI dialogue and collaboration. These strategies are proposed as avenues to ensure that AI development not only respects but also enriches the cultural diversity of the global community. The article concludes with a call to action for stakeholders across the globe to engage in the co-creation of an AI future that is inclusive, respectful, and reflective of the rich tapestry of human cultures, thereby shaping an AI legacy that complements and enhances cultural inheritance.
Sea-level oscillations within the Last Interglacial: insights from coral reef stratigraphic forward modelling
Authors: Chauveau Denovan , Georgiou Nikos , Cerrone Ciro , Dean Silas , Rovere Alessio
Published: February 2024

Understanding past sea-level variations is essential to constrain future patterns of sea-level rise in response to warmer climate conditions. Due to good preservation and the possibility to use various geochemical methods to date fossil sea-level index points, the Last Interglacial (Marine Isotope Stage, MIS, 5e, 130-116 ka) is often regarded as one of the best climate analogs for a future warmer climate. MIS 5e coastal stratigraphic sequences, such as fossil coral reefs in tectonically stable areas, are characterized by abrupt shifts in their geological facies, steps within the reef topography or backstepped fossil reefs, which have been often interpreted as proxies for abrupt sea-level fluctuations within the interglacial. However, the observational evidence and magnitude of such abrupt changes are controversial. Here, we run nearly 50 thousand simulations of a 2D kinematic reef model that can reproduce coral reef growth and demise through time. Our aim is to investigate the parameters of space, the sea-level scenarios, and the processes which multiple-stepped MIS 5e fossil reefs form. As inputs to the model, we use both published and synthetic sea-level histories (17 sea-level curves ranging from one to several sea-level peaks), and a wide range of reef growth rates, marine erosion rates and bedrock foundation slopes. Our results show that the only sea-level history that could explain the generation of an emerged MIS 5e backstepped reef is a first sea-level peak followed by an abrupt rise in sea level and a second short-term peak. Any other multiple-stepped stratigraphy can be explained by the interplay between reef growth, marine erosion, and bedrock slope.
Adult outcomes by parental, school and postcode aggregated income in childhood – a descriptive analysis of the cohorts 1981-1989 in Finland
Authors: Hiilamo Aapo , Luotonen Niilo , Mäkinen Lauri , Ristikari Tiina
Published: February 2024

Monitoring the ways in which childhood socioeconomic environment is associated with adult outcomes is fundamental in terms of informing evidence-based policy debates. However, we know little about the cohort differences in the association of childhood income with adult outcomes in Finland, a country of low income-inequality and one of the most desegregated educational systems in the OECD countries. We use longitudinal FOLK register data on complete population cohorts born in 1981-89. We divide these cohorts into tenths by their parental, school and postcode-level aggregated income at the age of 15. We focus on five demographic and socioeconomic adult outcomes at the age of 30. On average across the cohorts, compared to the highest income groups, the lowest tenth of parental, school and postcode income had, respectively, a 1.8, 1.7 and 1.4-fold risk of death, 3, 1.3 and 0.9-fold risk of low education, 2.5, 1.8, and 1.4-fold risk of long-term unemployment. People with a lower childhood parental or school income were more likely to live with a partner and have children than people from higher income backgrounds. The differences by school and postcode income in the education outcome were small, indicating limited school and area segregation in the country. However, we observe increasing absolute and relative differences in the education and employment outcomes by parental and, to a lesser extent, school aggregated income.
Vulnerability: The active ingredient of trust in public governance
Authors: Hamm Joseph A. , Banner Francine
Published: February 2024

A key task of public governance is the management of vulnerability. Whether by standardizing units of measurement or coordinating global responses to climate change, public governance actors are empowered to leverage their expertise, authority, and time to address the variety of risks facing society. Paradoxically, however, these efforts to manage risk create new potential for injury. Trust, as a willingness to accept vulnerability, is therefore critically important. This chapter explores the intersection of trust and vulnerability, first, by elucidating imposed, relational, focal, and emergent vulnerability to both internal and external harms as discrete types with distinct implications for trust. We then turn to the dynamics of vulnerability and posit that—per the proposed law of conservation of vulnerability—addressing vulnerability in a social system does not destroy it. Instead, vulnerability evolves from one form to another as trustors work to convert felt vulnerability into more acceptable versions. We conclude by presenting three complimentary approaches by which public governance actors can center vulnerability and conclude with a normative argument regarding the relationship between the vulnerability experienced by governance actors and that of the public they serve.
A Year and a Half in Exile: Progress and Obstacles in the Integration of Russian Migrants
Authors: Sergeeva Ivetta , Kamalov Emil
Published: February 2024

This memo analyzes the integration of Russian migrants using biannual surveys from the OutRush panel. Findings show these migrants, mainly well-educated and politically active, differ significantly from the average Russian citizen in attitudes and values, facilitating potential integration into host societies. Key observations include a shift from Russian to international or local employment, stable income levels for less affluent migrants, and varying impacts of host country legal restrictions. Despite facing challenges like discrimination and fears of transnational repression, these migrants are integrating socially, maintaining connections with Russia while engaging in their host societies. The study highlights their dual identities and evolving political and social dynamics in the context of migration.
Development of Employability Skills through Work-Based Learning
Authors: Thapa Harish Singh
Published: February 2024

Employability is the ability to participate in the workforce. It comprises a variety of elements that are required to obtain employment, while the skills needed to get employment are employability skills. These skills are essential for upgrading knowledge, skills, ability, and entrepreneurial enthusiasm of a learner. Work-based Learning (WBL) is an education strategy that increases participation in Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) because there is support to enhance employability and upgrading skills for a competitive market. The aim of this article is to systematically review published research and explore the employability skills enhanced by WBL through the school-production unit. The finding of the review shows WBL in the school production unit of TVET institute is a positive indicator of employability, and they develop valuable competencies and employability skills. The review further shows that students enhance subject-specific technical skills, generic skills, or soft skills like communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving skills, critical thinking, leadership skills, entrepreneurial skills, and management skills. Likewise, they enhance personal skills like self-confidence, a positive attitude, and ethics. The article concludes that students gained their technical, generic, and personal employability skills from WBL through the school production unit in TVET institutions.
Challenges Faced by Apprentices in Completing Dual TVET Course: A Case of Butwal Technical Institute
Authors: Thapa Raj Kumar , Gaihre Navin Kishor
Published: February 2024

This article highlights a case on the status of apprentices studying at Butwal Technical Institute (BTI), a pioneer not-for-profit apprenticeship education provider in Nepal. It is seen that the graduates of BTI are earning respectable income and living reputed life; however, the study incompletion rate is found significantly on rise at BTI. To identify the challenges faced by the apprentices to complete their study, a research was carried out, assuming inadequate family support or guidance, poor family economy, unfriendly working environment in the industry, institutional technical inefficiency, and unavailability of amenities in the institute as the five major challenges. As a descriptive method, a questionnaire was used for collecting data from 204 apprentices out of 314 in the study. The family support was a moderate challenge for the apprentice to complete their dual TVET apprenticeship training at BTI. The apprentices of BTI had normal financial support from their families. Another challenge was the environment of industry for the apprentices to complete the dual TVET apprenticeship training at BTI, while institutional technical efficiency was considered a moderate challenge to this regard.
PENGARUH PEMBERIAN PUPUK KOMPOS DAN PUPUK ORGANIK CAIR FORTUNE TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN DAN HASIL TANAMAN JAGUNG MANIS (Zea mays saccharata Sturt) VARIETAS BONANZA
Authors: Liah Benediktus , Rahmi Abdul , Jannah Noor
Published: February 2024

Jagung  (Zea mays saccharata) merupakan salah satu komoditas sayuran dan sebagai makanan pokok bagi masyakat Indonesia. Tujuan penelitian yaitu untuk mengetahui pengaruh pupuk kompos dan POC Fortune serta interaksinya terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil tanaman jagung manis, dosis pupuk kompos dan konsentrasi POC dan produksi jagung manis.Penelitian dilaksanakan pada bulan Mei-Agustus 2020. Lokasi penelitian terletak di Desa Nehas Liah Bing, Kecamatan Muara Wahau, Kabupaten Kutai Timur, Provinsi Kalimatan Timur.Penelitian menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok dengan pola faktorial 4 x 4 yang diulang sebanyak 3 kali. Faktor pertama adalah dosis pupuk Kompos (K) yang terdiri atas 4 taraf, yaitu: tanpa pupuk kompos (k0); 4,30 ton/ha setara dengan 1,00 kg/petak (k1); 6,45 ton/ha setara dengan 2,50 kg/petak, (k2); dan 12,89 ton/ha setara dengan 3,00 kg/petak (k3).  Faktor kedua adalah konsentrasi POC Fortune (P) yang terdiri atas 4 taraf, yaitu: tanpa POC Fortune (p0); 2 ml/l air (p1); 4 mI/l air (p2); dan 6 mI/l air (p3).Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa perlakuan pupuk kompos berpengaruh tidak nyata, terhadap tinggi tanaman pada umur 15 dan 30 hari setelah tanam, saat keluar bunga jantan, saat keluar bunga betina, panjang tongkol, dan produksi tongkol, tetapi berpengaruh nyata terhadap diameter tongkol.  Produksi tongkol tertinggi dihasilkan pada perlakuan 6,45 ton/ha kompos atau setara dengan 2,50 kg/petak (k2) yaitu 10,92 ton/ha,  perlakuan POC Fortune berpengaruh tidak nyata terhadap tinggi tanaman, saat keluar bunga jantan, saat keluar bunga betina, panjang tongkol, diameter tongkol, dan produksi tongkol.  Interaksi antara pupuk kompos dan POC Fortune berpengaruh tidak nyata terhadap parameter penelitian.
PENGARUH PUPUK PETROGANIK DAN PUPUK NPK MUTIARA TERHADAP PERTUMBUHAN DAN HASIL TANAMAN SEMANGKA (Citrullus vulgaris Schard) VARIETAS MAHESA F1
Authors: Triyatmoko Ragil , Rahmi Abdul , Fatah Abdul
Published: February 2024

Semangka sebagai komuditas buah yang dikenal masyarakat Indonesia dengan nilai ekonomi tinggi dengan pasar yang luas. Tujuan penelitian adalah untuk mengetahui pengaruh pupuk petroganik dan NPK Mutiara serta interaksinya terhadap pertumbuhan dan hasil tanaman semangka (Citrullus vulgaris Schard) varietas Mahesa F1 dan untuk memperoleh dosis pupuk Petroganik dan NPK Mutiara.Penelitian dilaksanakan pada bulan Januari-April 2022. Lokasi penelitian terletak di Desa Sidomulyo, Kecamatan Anggana, Kabupaten Kutai Kartanegara, Provinsi Kalimantan Timur.Penelitian menggunakan Rancangan Acak Kelompok dengan pola faktorial 4x4 yang diulang sebanyak 3 kali. Faktor pertama adalah pupuk petroganik (P) yang terdiri atas 4 taraf yaitu: tanpa pemberian pupuk Petroganik (p0), 1 ton ha-1 atau 1,6 kg petak-1 (p1), 2 ton ha-1 atau 3,2 kg petak-1 (p2), dan 3 ton ha-1 atau 4,8 kg petak-1 (p3). Faktor kedua adalah pupuk NPK Mutiara (N) yang terdiri atas 4 taraf, yaitu : tanpa pupuk NPK Mutiara (n0), 100 kg ha-1 atau 10 g tanaman-1 (n1), 200 kg ha-1 atau 20 g tanaman-1 (n2), dan 300 kg ha-1 atau 30 g tanaman-1 (n3).Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pemberian pupuk Petroganik       berpengaruh nyata sampai sangat nyata terhadap panjang tanaman umur 20 dan 60    hari setelah tanam, umur tanaman saat berbunga, umur tanaman saat panen, diameter buah, berat per buah dan produksi buah. Pemberian pupuk NPK Mutiara berpengaruh nyata sampai sangat nyata terhadap panjang tanaman umur 20 dan 60 hari setelah tanam, umur tanaman saat panen, diameter buah, berat per buah dan produksi buah.
PERUBAHAN KELAS TUTUPAN LAHANDI SETIAP FUNGSI KAWASAN DI WILAYAH KABUPATEN KUTAI BARAT DARI TAHUN 2009 SAMPAI TAHUN 2020
Authors: Fitriansyah Fitriansyah , Derita Djumansi
Published: February 2024

Alih fungsi lahan tanpa perencanaan dapat mengakibatkan banyak masalah. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah mengetahui perubahan tutupan lahan masing-masing fungsi kawasan selama rentang waktu 11 tahun dimulai dari tahun 2009 sampai tahun 2020 di Wilayah Kabupaten Kutai Barat.Penelitian ini dilakukan di Kabupaten Kutai Barat Provinsi Kalimantan Timur pada bulan Februari–Mei 2021, yaitu persiapan penelitian, pelaksanaan penelitian, pengolahan data dan penyajian hasilPenelitian ini menggunakan peta perubahan tutupan lahan wilayah Kabupaten Kutai Barat selama rentang waktu 11 tahun dari tahun 2009 sampai tahun 2020 dan peta fungsi kawasan hutan dengan tujuan untuk menganalisis bagaimana perubahan tutupan lahan masing-masing fungsi kawasan yang terjadi di wilayah Kabupaten Kutai Barat.Hasil penelitian menunjukan terjadi perubahan luas areal berhutan seluas 105.439,10 Ha atau sekitar 6,16% atau sekitar 0,56% pertahunnya, yang beralih menjadi areal non hutan sebesar 6,16%, dimana perubahan terbesar terjadi pada hutan lahan kering sekunder sebesar 107.736,89 Ha atau sekitar 6,30 %, hal ini selain disebabkan oleh adanya pemanfaatan dan penggunaan areal hutan menjadi areal non hutan, juga terjadi karena adanya peralihan status kawasan hutan menjadi kawasan non hutan/areal penggunaan lain.