bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural Stem Cells in the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Prospects
Authors: Chen Xiaokun , Jiang Shenzhong , Wang Renzhi , Bao Xinjie , Li Yongning
Published: November 2022

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a progressive dementia, is one of the world’s most dangerous and debilitating diseases. Clinical trial results of amyloid-β (Aβ) and tau regulators based on the pretext of straightforward amyloid and tau immunotherapy were disappointing. There are currently no effective strategies for slowing the progression of AD. Further understanding of the mechanisms underlying AD and the development of novel therapeutic options are critical. Neurogenesis is impaired in AD, which contributes to memory deficits. Transplanted neural stem cells (NSCs) can regenerate degraded cholinergic neurons, and new neurons derived from NSCs can form synaptic connections with neighboring neurons. In theory, employing NSCs to replace and restore damaged cholinergic neurons and brain connections may offer new treatment options for AD. However there remain barriers to surmount before NSC-based therapy can be used clinically. The objective of this article is to describe recent advances in the treatment of AD models and clinical trials involving NSCs. In addition, we discuss the challenges and prospects associated with cell transplant therapy for AD.
RETRACTED: Traffic flow state prediction based on space-time correlation of vehicle trajectory using the deep hybrid model
Authors: Jun-Fang Song , Yan Chen
Published: November 2022

This article has been retracted. A retraction notice can be found at https://doi.org/10.3233/JIFS-219433.
Topological structures on cubic bipolar fuzzy sets with linear assignment model and SIR method for healthcare
Authors: Riaz Muhammad , Jamil Nimra
Published: November 2022

The idea of a cubic bipolar fuzzy set (CBFS) is a new hybrid extension of the cubic set (CS) and the bipolar fuzzy set (BFS). A CBFS is a strong model to deal with bipolarity and fuzziness in terms of positive membership grades (PMGs) and negative membership grades (NMGs). A positive interval and a positive numbers represent a PMG to express the degree of belongingness of a specific property, and a negative interval and a negative number represent a NMG which defines the degree of non-belongingness of the specific property (or satisfaction level of its counter property). The aim of this paper is to define the cubic bipolar fuzzy topology under P-order (CBFSP topology) as well as the cubic bipolar fuzzy topology under R-order (CBFSR topology). We investigate certain properties and results of CBFSP topology and CBFSR topology. Topological structures on CBFSs are helping in the development of new artificial intelligence (AI) techniques for healthcare domain strategies and investigating various critical diseases. Such techniques allow for the early detection and investigation of diseases, assisting clinicians in minimizing the possible risk factors. An extended linear assignment model (LAM) and superiority and inferiority ranking method (SIR method) are proposed for healthcare diagnosis based on newly developed structures. The proposed LAM and SIR method are successfully applied for investigation of critical diseases. Moreover, we discuss a comparison analysis of investigations made by suggested techniques with some existing approaches.
The Utility of Jan Smuts’ Theory of Holism for Philosophical Practice
Authors: Du Plessis Guy , Weathers Robert
Published: November 2022

This article explores the potential utility of the theory of Holism as developed by South African philosopher, British Commonwealth statesman and military leader, Jan Smuts, for philosophical counselling or practice. Central to the philosophical counseling process are philosophical counsellors or practitioners applying the work of philosophers to inspire, educate and guide their counselees in dealing with life problems. For example, Logic-Based Therapy (LBT), a method of philosophical counselling developed by Elliot Cohen, provides a rational framework for confronting problems of living, where the counselor helps the counselee find an uplifting philosophy that promotes a guiding virtue that acts as an antidote to unrealistic and often self-defeating conclusions derived from irrational premises. We present the argument that Holism is one such uplifting philosophy which can be of utility to philosophical counselors or practitioners to help their counselees with confronting problems of living. Furthermore, we argue that Smuts’ articulation of freedom can act as a guiding virtue within this uplifting philosophy of Holism in accordance with the methodology of LBT. Smuts’ contribution to philosophy and psychology is arguably inadequately credited, and for this reason, and to the best of our knowledge, Smuts’ theory of Holism has yet to be discussed in the context of philosophical counseling or practice. Given these omissions, we begin this article with a discussion of his influence on 20th Century Anglo-American psychology. We then provide a brief historical context, and an introduction to the central argument of Smuts’ Holism, as well as a brief overview of the origins of Smut’s Holism and an introduction to his book _Holism and Evolution_. In the remainder of the article, we discuss several foundational concepts that underlie Smuts’ theory of Holism, as articulated and developed in his book _Holism and Evolution_, to substantiate our arguments. We conclude by highlighting the limitations of our article, limitations to Smuts’ model, and the challenges inherent in the use of a now largely antiquated theory, even by Smuts’ own admission nineteen years after its publication, for the purposes of contextualizing and substantiating the arguments and recommendations presented herein.
Arthritis in East Africa: An Observational Study
Authors: Kuo Catherine , Black Louisa , Barber Sukie , Luzigwi Vincent , Wanjiru Rose , Kelly Clive
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

The burden of musculoskeletal (MSK) disease in East Africa remains largely unknown. Early evidence from Tanzania suggests that it may have a substantial adverse impact on health care outcomes with both social and economic consequences. There is limited data on prevalence and case mix of MSK disorders in East Africa. Data is urgently required to facilitate the planning, provision, and funding of the services needed to meet population requirements. The need is likely to be greatest among the poorer and most isolated members of the community. In this study, we describe the prevalence of MSK disease found in people with limited or no access to regular clinical care across five rural regions in East Africa.

METHODS

Over a four-week period in 2022, we undertook a series of clinics in five separate locations across impoverished areas of Zambia and Kenya. These ranged from city slums to isolated rural communities. For every consultation, we recorded demographic features (age and gender), diagnosis, and intervention. We then calculated the percentage of people who presented with MSK complaints, analysed their demographics and classified the case mix of MSK disorders along with interventions provided. 

RESULTS

We completed a total of 1089 community consultations in Zambia and Kenya. Of these, a total of 271 people (24.9%) reported primary MSK issues. This population was mainly female (66%) and had a median (range) age of 58 (13-90) years. The percentage of patients who consulted with MSK issues were significantly influenced by geographic location, rising from 8% in urban areas to 52% in rural areas. The most common diagnoses were osteoarthritis (49.8%), mechanical low back pain (27.7%), and soft tissue rheumatism (10.0%), with 3.0% having evidence of inflammatory joint disease (IJD). Therapeutic intervention was provided in 62.3% and procedures performed in 11.4%.

CONCLUSIONS

MSK disease is a common reason for seeking medical intervention in East Africa, especially among older females who have accumulated a significant mechanical burden from physical exertion and childbearing. Therapeutic intervention was frequently required, although smaller numbers had evidence of IJD. Increased awareness of the burden of MSK disease on poorer populations is necessary. Training programs in rheumatology with support from local hospitals and medical personnel are urgently required to develop care pathways with adequate funding. Describing the prevalence of MSK disease in rural and underserved regions of East Africa is just the first step in ensuring regular, direct access to healthcare and appropriate intervention.
Applications of Digital Twins in Power Systems: A Perspective
Authors: Kamyabi Leila , Lie Tek Tjing , Madanian Samaneh
Published: November 2022

Data science-based digital twin models of renewable energy system technologies developed in a real-time data-rich environment help develop better decisions and predictions than those in the present environment. Based on this real-time analysis of countrywide data, digital twin contributes to effective and reduced cost-based power system control at the localised level. Developing digital twin models from the collection of relevant data is an innovative technology. The challenge is how to leverage all the operational data and analyse the use of data from across transmission and distribution networks to help achieve the objectives. This paper presents an overview of the existing applications of digital twins in power systems.
Atom-economic Michael reaction between hydroacridines and arylmaleimides without catalyst/additive
Authors:   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology, Smetanin N.V. , Varenichenko S.A. ,   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology, Mazepa A.V. ,   A.V. Bogatsky Physico-Chemical Institute of the National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine, Farat O.K. ,   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology, Kharchenko A.V. ,   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology, Markov V.I. ,   Ukrainian State University of Chemical Technology
Published: November 2022

Previously unknown spiroderivatives of 3,1-benzoxazines were synthesized by the reaction of anthranilic acid with cyclic ketones. The interaction of 3,1-spirobenzoxazines with Vilsmeier-Haack reagent (POCl3 (PBr3)/DMF), depending on the amount of formulation agent, leads to the formation of hydroacridones or hydroacridines. Under catalyst- and additive-free conditions, N-arylmaleimides, like Michael's acceptors, are added to the hydroacridines in DMSO to form the corresponding adducts. The reaction proceeds stereoselectively with the formation of a mirror pair of diastereomers, if the products have only two chiral centers. In the presence of three chiral centers in the structure of Michael's adducts, the reaction is not stereoselective. The reaction proceeds by the sp3 hybrid carbon atom under non-catalytic conditions due to the imin-enamine tautomerism of chloro(bromo)hydroacridines. The presented reaction can also be considered as an effective atom-economical aza-ene reaction, which fully meets today's requirements for eco-friendly reaction. The synthesized compounds are potential biologically active substances and can also be used as "building-blocks" for organic synthesis.
Binary catalytic systems for the industrial cyclohexane oxidation process
Authors:   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Ludyn А.М. , Reutskyy V.V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University, Reutskyy Vol.V. ,   Lviv Polytechnic National University
Published: November 2022

This paper proposes the possibility of creating an efficient binary catalytic system for the industrial oxidation process of cyclohexane based on a compound of a metal of variable valence and a salt of perfluorinated sulfonic acid. Two-component binary mixtures of the main component and additive were used for the study. In addition to industrial cobalt naphthenate, other salts of metals of variable valences, such as manganese naphthenate, as well as stearates of copper, nickel, and cerium, were used as the main component of the binary mixture. A number of salts of perfluorinated sulfonic acids were used as an additive to the binary mixture. Chromoxane is shown to be the most efficient additive to cobalt naphthenate. In the presence of this binary system at the 50th minute of the process, the conversion of raw materials increased to 10.4 mol.%, which is 22% more than the oxidation of pure cobalt naphthenate, while the selectivity with respect to the target products remains high (79.5 mol.%). It is shown that of a number of compounds of metals of variable valence, the most effective main components of binary systems are cobalt naphthenate and cobalt-cerium catalyst. Carrying out the oxidation of cyclohexane in the presence of such systems allows increasing the conversion of the initial cyclohexane by 1.13 to 1.5 times and thus increasing the rate of oxidation of the hydrocarbon in comparison with the industrial process. It is also important that the use of such catalysts allows conducting the oxidation of cyclohexane to high conversions without losing the yield of the target products.
Academic reputations of Russian economists and their scientometric estimates
Authors: Sokolov M. M. , Chechik E. A.
Published: November 2022

The article presents the results of an academic reputation survey of Russian economists (N = 6392). The resulting ranking is then compared with their scientometric indicators provided by the Russian Science Citation Index (citations in eLibrary and in RSCI core), as well as calculated by the authors (citations in the RSCI list of distinguished journals). The analysis demonstrates that a robust hierarchy of academic authority exists in Russia, which is, however, only moderately correlated with scientometric indicators. We can classify discrepancies into type I errors (researchers with high citation rates are not enjoying recognition by peers) and type II errors (recognized researchers have poor scientometric records). Type I errors mostly result from (1) misidentification of authors; (2) non-fractionalized authorship of collected volumes; (3) instrumental citing; (4) gaming the metrics. Type II errors arise from ambiguity of the disciplinary boundaries of economics and boundaries of national science, as well as from the ambiguous status of public intellectuals addressing economic issues and politicians responsible for economic policy. Overall, type II errors are less dramatic: it is hard for Russian economists to be widely influential, but little cited. Type I errors are much more widespread. Indicators based on the RSCI list of distinguished journals give the most accurate estimates.
The impact of ESG-factors on financial stability
Authors: Stolbov M. I. , Shchepeleva M. A.
Published: November 2022

An increasing attention has been riveted recently on so called ESGfactors impacting financial stability. This paper provides a systematic review of the empirical studies which assess the impact of environmental (climatic), social factors as well as various aspects related to corporate governance on financial stability. Overall, higher ESG-rankings, both aggregate and in terms of the three pillars (E, S, G), tend to enhance the financial system stability from the microand macroprudential perspective by mitigating aggregate individual risk of financial institutions and the contribution to systemic risk, respectively. Nonetheless, the research intensity within the ESG pillars differs substantially. There are significantly more studies investigating the impact of environmental and corporate governance factors then tackling the effects of social ones. This literature review is closed with the discussion of possible directions for future investigation in the given research program.
Impact of industry clusters on the performance of Russian private companies: Inter-industry analysis
Authors: Zyuzin A. V. , Demidova O. A.
Published: November 2022

This paper discovers the sustainability of agglomeration externalities and robustness issues for Russian private real sector companies between 2011 to 2018. Agglomeration effects are measured with the Ellison—Glaeser index (industry is supposed to be clustered in certain region(s) if the EG value is high). Firms’ sales margin was chosen as the main performance characteristic (dependent variable). The sample was divided into six aggregated groups (agriculture, mining, manufacturing, transport, IT, services). For each of them, sustainability and robustness of the concentration effect were checked using OLS estimates obtained for each year. Companies, located in and out of the cluster were studied separately. Strong, sustainable, and positive concentration effects were found for the agricultural, mining and transport industries. Sustainable negative agglomeration effects appear for the manufacturing and service industries. For IT companies located inside the industry cluster the agglomeration effect appeared to be negative and for those outside it — positive.
Efecto del kV en la calidad de imagen y la dosis de radiación en exámenes pediátricos de tomografía computarizada de cráneo simple del Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael
Authors: Ramos Victor , Baldissera Salgado María Rosaria , Mora Méndez Javier Mauricio , Pineda Diego , González David
Published: November 2022

Para reducir la dosis de radiación en la población pediátrica entre 0 y 10 años, a la que se le realizan tomografías de  cráneo simple en el Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael, se redujo el kV con el que se adquieren las tomografías  computarizadas (TC) de cráneo simple de 120 a 80 kV. Retrospectivamente, se compara la calidad de imagen de las TC de 33 pacientes tomados con 120 kV y 33 tomados con 80 kV. Se realiza un análisis cuantitativo con el uso de la relación contraste a ruido entre materia gris y materia  blanca, y un índice de artefactos en la fosa posterior. El  análisis cualitativo de imágenes anonimizadas lo ejecutan  dos neurorradiólogos con una experiencia mayor a cinco años mediante la escala de la guía europea de criterios de calidad de imagen en TC. Se registran los valores del índice volumétrico de dosis en tomografía (CTDIvol) y del producto dosis longitud (DLP) de todos los estudios y se estima la SSDE para cada paciente. Se obtiene un aumento de 26,4 %  en la relación contraste a ruido entre materia gris y materia blanca del grupo tomado con 80 kV respecto al de 120 kV; esto es concordante con la mejora en la resolución espacial percibida por los radiólogos. El aumento en el ruido para el grupo de 80 kV no fue significativo respecto al de 120 kV, tanto en el análisis cualitativo como en el cuantitativo. Se obtuvo una disminución de los indicadores de dosis cercana al 10 % en el grupo tomado con 80 kV, respecto al tomado con 120 kV. Con la disminución del kV en el Hospital Universitario Clínica San Rafael se obtuvo una reducción de la dosis de radiación recibida por los pacientes de un 19,3 %, la aceptabilidad diagnóstica, ruido y resolución espacial no presentaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas(p > 0,05) entre las lecturas de los dos radiólogos para 120 kV vs. 80 kV.
A Semiotics Analysis of the Novel Illustration on Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban by J.K. Rowling
Authors: Gistrama Ionove , Prastiwi Yeny
Published: November 2022

This research aims to study the novel illustration as a sign in Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban novel by J.K. Rowling (2014). The researcher shows how the illustrations can influence readers by illustrating images, events, colors, and the typography displayed on the novel's cover. This research is qualitative. The data source used is the Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban novel by J.K. Rowling (2014) UK edition. The data collection technique is from analyzing the novel illustration.  The theory used in this study is a semiotic analysis of literature, the course of the sign, meaning, metaphor, and symbolism.  The result of this study are as follows: first, the value of novel illustrations. Second, the meaning of color psychology. Third, the reviews about the different edition of Harry Potter and The Prisoner of Azkaban novel.
Cost Effective Reconfigurable Architecture for Stream Processing Applications
Authors: Kirischian Valeri , Geurkov Vadim , Kirischian Lev
Published: November 2022

This paper presents an approach for development of costeffective custom video / image processing systems. The approach utilizes the concept of temporal partitioning of resources in the partially reconfigurable FPGA devices. Paper proposes architecture of the multi-mode video-stream processor with cyclically reconfigurable structure. The cost-effectiveness of the proposed approach has been analyzed on the basis of experiments conducted on Multi-mode Adaptive Reconfigurable System (MARS) platform that was developed for that purpose. The video-processing cores associated with stereo-vision algorithms have been developed, tested and analyzed. The experiments have shown that the cost-effectiveness of the systems based on proposed approach can be better than the traditional approaches based on large statically configured FPGAs. 
Geosocial Media as a Proxy for Security: A Review
Authors: Han Zhigang , Li Songnian , Cui Caihui , Han Daojun , Song Hongquan
Published: November 2022

Since the rapid growth of urban populations, the study of urban systems has gained considerable attention from researchers, decision makers, governments, and organizations. Urban systems are complex and dynamic such that they produce emergent patterns such as self-organization and nonlinearity. Agent-based modelling presents an approach to simulating and abstracting urban systems to reveal and study emergent patterns from urban-related entities. However, agent-based models are difficult to effectively optimize and validate without high quality real-world data. Geosocial media data provides agent-based models with location-enabled data at high volumes and frequencies. Integrating agent-based models with geosocial media data presents opportunities in advancing and developing studies in urban systems. This paper provides a general overview of concepts, review of recent applications, and discussion of challenges and opportunities in the context of using geosocial media data in agent-based models for urban systems. We argue that ABMs focused on studying urban systems can benefit greatly from geosocial media data, given that research moves towards standard guidelines that enable the comparison and effective use of ABMs, and geosocial media data under appropriate circumstances and applications. 
Meta-analysis of digital-based learning to improve learning outcomes
Authors: Ismiyati Ismiyati , Pramusinto Hengky , Sholikah Mar'atus
Published: November 2022

The learning process in the 4.0 revolution era has changed from conventional systems to digital. It causes every component of education to use various features of digital technology as a learning medium, so this study aims to determine and analyze the effectiveness and influence of digital-based learning media on learning outcomes in economics subjects in senior and vocational high school. The meta-analysis by examining the results of research that are relevant to research variables from various research articles and theses is used in this study. Twenty-six studies examined digital-based cooperative learning media. The findings present that the effectiveness of digital-based learning media is effective in improving student learning outcomes. The quality of educators influences the effectiveness of using digital-based learning media in learning materials according to the tools or media used so that students' enthusiasm in participating in learning increases.
Evaluating the implementation of Bantuan Operasional Sekolah in vocational high schools of tourism in Indonesia
Authors: Felestin Felestin , Pardjono Pardjono , Zamroni Zamroni
Published: November 2022

This study aims to reveal the implementation of BOS in Indonesia. This study used the evaluative-quantitative methods approach with the descriptive analysis. The results of the research are as follows; the context of the implementation is in category ineffective, the input of the implementation of the BOS program was in category effective, the process of the implementation of BOS has been running in category ineffective, and the number of respondents showing disagreement is more than agreement that means the implementation of BOS program was level ineffective. Fifth, there is an ineffective level of satisfaction.
Smart city, slow city y land art: alternativas artísticas para la creación de paisajes generadores de energías limpias
Authors: Luque Rodrigo Laura
Published: November 2022

Smart city, slow city y land art: alternativas artísticas para la creación de paisajes generadores de energías limpias
Serbest Zaman Doyumu ile Yaşam Kalitesi Arasındaki İlişki: Manisa Ruh Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Hastanesi Örneği
Authors: Çakal Barış , Esentaş Deveci Melike
Published: November 2022

Bu çalışmanın amacı Manisa Ruh Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Hastanesinde çalışan bireylerin (doktor, diyetisyen, biyolog, psikolog, hemşire, hasta bakıcı, memur, hizmetli, güvenlik), serbest zaman doyumları ve yaşam kalitesi arasındaki ilişkiyi bazı değişkenlere göre incelemek ve aralarındaki ilişkiyi incelenmektedir. Veri toplama aracı olarak, araştırmacı tarafından hazırlanan “Kişisel Bilgi Formu” ile birlikte 24 maddeden oluşan “Serbest Zaman Doyum Ölçeği” ve 30 maddeden oluşan “Çalışan Yaşam Kalite Ölçeği” kullanılmıştır. Araştırmanın örneklem grubu ise, Manisa Ruh Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Hastanesinde çalışan seçkisiz olmayan örneklem yöntemlerinden kolayda örneklem yoluyla seçilen toplam 401 (226’sı kadın ve 175’i erkek) çalışandan oluşmaktadır. Araştırmada elde edilen veriler SPSS 25.00 paket programında analiz edilmiştir. Verilerin istatiksel gösterimlerinde aritmetik ortalama, standart sapma ve frekans değerleri sunulmuştur. Değişkenler arasındaki farklılıkların incelenmesinde T-Testi, çok değişkenli varyans analizi (MANOVA) ve Pearson Korelasyon analizleri uygulanmıştır. Yapılan t-testi sonuçları neticesinde cinsiyet değişkeni açısından serbest zaman doyum düzeylerinde bir farklılık tespit edilmemiştir. Bununla birlikte çalışan yaşam kalitesi açısından da cinsiyet değişkeninde farklılık olmadığı tespit edilmiştir. MANOVA testi sonuçları incelendiğinde serbest zaman doyumun, çalışan yaşam kalitesi üzerinde etkisi olduğu tespit edilmiştir. Korelasyon testi sonuçları Manisa Ruh Sağlığı ve Hastalıkları Hastanesinde çalışan gönüllü katılımcıların serbest zaman doyum düzeyleri ile çalışan yaşam kalitesi arasında önemli bir ilişki olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
Scotland and the Two Irelands: Restoring Past Hopes in a New Era
Authors: Walker Graham
Published: November 2022

This contribution to the theme of ‘Scotland and the Two Irelands’ looks to the relationships within these islands, east and west as well as north and south, with particular reference to Scotland and Northern Ireland. It looks to the more pluralistic circumstances and ideas of the 1990s – not least as personified in the landmark work of Bernard Crick - and considers whether revisiting these would offer new possibilities in managing relationships across these islands.
Flexible time-to-event models for double-interval-censored infectious disease data with clearance of the infection as a competing risk
Authors: Ramjith Jordache , Andolina Chiara , Bousema Teun , Jonker Marianne A.
Published: November 2022

The observed induction time from an infection to an event of interest is often double-interval-censored and moreover, often prevented from being observed by the clearance of the infection (a competing risk). Double-interval-censoring and the presence of competing risks complicate the statistical analysis extremely and are therefore usually ignored in infectious disease studies. Often, the times at which events are detected are used as a proxy for the exact times and interpretation has to be made on the detected induction time and not on the actual latent induction time. In this paper, we first explain the concepts of double interval censoring and competing risks, propose multiple (semi-) parametric models for this kind of data and derive a formula for the corresponding likelihood function. We describe algorithms for the maximization of the likelihood and provide code. The proposed models vary in complexity. Therefore, results of simulation studies are presented to illustrate the advantages and disadvantages of each model. The methodology is illustrated by applying them to malaria data where the interest lies in the time from incident malaria infection to gametocyte initiation.
In the pursuit of new social neurons. Neurogenesis and social behavior in mice: A systematic review
Authors: García-Gómez Lydia , Castillo-Fernández Iker , Perez-Villalba Ana
Published: November 2022

Social behaviors have become more relevant to our understanding of the human nervous system because relationships with our peers may require and modulate adult neurogenesis. Here, we review the pieces of evidence we have to date for the divergence of social behaviors in mice by modulation of adult neurogenesis or if social behaviors and the social environment can drive a change in neurogenic processes. Social recognition and memory are deeply affected by antimitotic drugs and irradiation, while NSC transgenic mice may run with lower levels of social discrimination. Interestingly, social living conditions can create a big impact on neurogenesis. Social isolation and social defeat reduce the number of new neurons, while social dominance and enrichment of the social environment increase their number. These new “social neurons” trigger functional modifications with amazing transgenerational effects. All of these suggest that we are facing two bidirectional intertwined variables, and the great challenge now is to understand the cellular and genetic mechanisms that allow this relationship to be used therapeutically.
Growth stimulation expressed gene 2 (ST2): Clinical research and application in the cardiovascular related diseases
Authors: Chen Jinchao , Xiao Peng , Song Dan , Song Dewei , Chen Zhi , Li Hongmei
Published: November 2022

As an interleukin (IL)-1 receptor family member, scientists found that when circulating soluble growth stimulation expressed gene 2 (sST2) is low, its ligand, IL-33, will bind to ST2L to exert protective effects on various types of cells. On the other hand, competitive binding of IL-33 occurs when sST2 concentrations are increased, followed by a reduction in the amount available for cell protection. Based on this mechanism, the usage of sST2 is to identify the population of high-risk patients with cardiovascular disease. In recent years, the role of serum sST2 in the occurrence, diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of cardiovascular diseases has been gradually accepted by doctors. This manuscript systemically reviews the biological functions and applications of sST2 in disease diagnosis and treatment, especially for cardiovascular diseases. In clinical testing, since IL-33 can negatively impact sST2 measurement accuracy, the properties of current assay kits have been summarized and discussed to provide a clear view of the clinical chemistry results. Although sST2 is a promising biomarker, there are few quantitative approaches available for clinical testing. In this context, a mass spectrometry (MS)-based approach might be an option, as this is a powerful analytical tool to distinguish structurally related molecules in the matrix and decrease false-positive results in clinical testing. Moreover, approaches developed based on MS would be an ideal way to further study sST2 standardization.
Mapping current research and identifying hotspots of ferroptosis in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Teng Teng , Kong Chun-Yan , Huang Rong , Ma Zhen-Guo , Hu Can , Zhang Xin , Hu Min , Tang Qi-Zhu
Published: November 2022

Objective

Ferroptosis is a unique cell death depended on iron metabolism disorder which is different from previous apoptosis-regulated cell death. Early studies have proposed that ferroptosis is closely associated with multiple cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). However, the relationship of ferroptosis and CVDs has not been summarized by using bibliometric analysis. We intended to illustrate the development of ferroptosis in CVDs over the past years and provide relevant valuable information.

Materials and methods

The authoritative database of Web of Science Core Collection was collected for retrieving ferroptosis studies in CVDs. In this work, statistical and visualization analysis were conducted using VOSviewer and Citespace.

Results

A total of 263 studies were included in the final study. From the perspective of the overall literature, the study maintains an increased trend year by year and most manuscripts belonged to original article. China was the most productive country with the utmost scientific research output, as well as the institutions and authors, followed by Germany and the United States of America (USA). Jun Peng from China contributes to the most publications. Collaborative efforts between institutes and authors were limited and there was little widespread cooperation. In addition, burst keywords analysis discovered that ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury, heart failure (HF), and atherosclerosis were the top three research directions of ferroptosis in CVDs. The burst investigation and timeline views also indicated that endothelial injury and gut microbiota may also serve as new research topics in the future.

Conclusion

This study provided comprehensive and specific information about the most influential articles on ferroptosis in CVDs. The relationship between ferroptosis and CVDs had attracted the scholar’s concerns especially in China. Cooperations and communications between countries and institutions should be emphasized and future directions can be concentrated on endothelial disorder and gut microbiota.
Increased residual cardiovascular risk in U.S. veterans with moderately-elevated baseline triglycerides and well-controlled LDL-C levels on statins
Authors: Leatherman Sarah , Ferguson Ryan , Hau Cynthia , Harrington Kelly , Granowitz Craig , Philip Sephy , Toth Peter Paul , Bhatt Deepak , Boden William
Published: November 2022

Background

Recent studies have demonstrated a causal role for elevated triglycerides (TG) in incident cardiovascular (CV) events in patients with established coronary heart disease (CHD) and those with CV risk factors alone, particularly diabetes.

Objective

Using a large cohort of U.S. veterans with statin-controlled LDL-C levels (40–100 mg/dL), we explored residual CV risk among patients with elevated baseline TG levels (150–499 mg/dL) vs. those with normal TG levels (<150 mg/dL).

Methods

We identified veterans receiving a statin but not a TG-lowering agent from the VA electronic health records database, from 2010 to 2015. We compared composite CV event rates (MI, stroke, unstable angina, coronary revascularization, and CV death) between the elevated TG and normal TG groups. We stratified the study cohort according to 3 CV risk groups: (1) no diabetes and no prior CV event, (2) diabetes and no prior CV event, and (3) prior CV event. We calculated crude event rates, rate ratios, and event rate ratios adjusted for age, sex, systolic blood pressure, estimated glomerular filtration rate, and weight.

Results

The cohort included 396,189 veterans (predominantly male and white) of whom 109,195 (28%) had elevated TG levels. Those with elevated TG were younger (age 73 vs. 77 years) and had a higher body mass index (31.3 vs. 28.3 Kg/M2). The overall composite crude and adjusted rate ratios comparing the elevated and normal TG groups were 1.10 (1.09, 1.12) and 1.05 (1.03, 1.06), respectively. For CV risk groups 1, 2 and 3, the adjusted rate ratios comparing the elevated and normal TG groups were 0.99 (0.96, 1.02), 1.05 (1.02, 1.08), and 1.07 (1.04, 1.10), respectively. An association of increased rate ratios did not hold for fatal events.

Conclusion

Those with elevated TG levels and well-controlled LDL-C on statins showed a modest increase in CV events compared to those with normal TG. Elevated TG levels were associated with increased CV events in patients with established CV disease and with diabetes only, suggesting that elevated TG levels are associated with a similar degree of residual risk in high-risk primary prevention and secondary prevention settings.
Quantifying the impact of climate change and human activities on runoff at a tropical watershed in South China
Authors: Li Dan , Zhu Lirong , Xu Wen , Ye Changqing
Published: November 2022

Different regions exhibit different response patterns of hydrological process changes under changing environments. The hydrological response mechanism of underlying surface changes in tropical rainforest regions remains uncertain, so there is an urgent need to study the causes of hydrological changes in typical tropical watersheds. The sequential clustering analysis and Pettitt-Mann-Whitney test were employed to detect abrupt change points of runoff series for the Wanquan River Basin in the tropics, and the series was then divided into pre-impact period (1967–1990) and post-impact period (1991–2014). And the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model was used to simulate the runoff to quantify the impact of climate change, land use change and other human activities on runoff, which the latter two collectively referred to as “human activities” in this study. The findings reveal: 1) runoff series showed an abrupt change and a downward trend around the year 1990; the SWAT model has a good simulation in the Wanquan River Basin during the pre-impact period; the coefficients of determination (R2) for the calibration and validation periods are both 0.91, and the Nash-Sutcliffe model efficiency coefficients (NSE) for the calibration and validation periods are 0.89 and 0.86, respectively. 2) There was a considerable change in land use between 1967 and 2014, as evidenced by a decrease of 29.54% in natural forest and an increase of 54.90% in rubber. These land use changes were mostly caused by the transformation of tropical rainforests into rubber forests and orchards. 3) Runoff declined in the post-impact period from the pre-impact period, with climate change, land use change, and other human activities contributing 44.05%, 10.83%, and 45.12% to the runoff change, respectively. The conversion of tropical rain forests to rubber forests and orchards has indirectly led to a reduction in runoff. These results can provide a reference for understanding the evolution of water cycle for other tropical rivers.
Ammonium removal by metakaolin-based geopolymers from municipal and industrial wastewaters and its sequential recovery by stripping techniques
Authors: Samarina Tatiana , Guagneli Luca , Takaluoma Esther , Tuomikoski Sari , Pesonen Janne , Laatikainen Outi
Published: November 2022

In this study, a technical scheme of an ammonium recovery process from diluted municipal or industrial wastewaters was developed, and the main operational parameters of adsorption/desorption and air-stripping/acid-scrubbing or membrane units were examined. The proposed approach combines the removal of ammonium nitrogen by an ion-exchange mechanism on metakaolin-based geopolymers (MKGPs) followed by adsorbent regeneration. A regeneration agent was purified by the air-stripping technique or membrane technology. A ready-to-use market-grade fertilizer or industrial-grade ammonia water could be obtained as the final product. The properties and regeneration ability of MKGP, prepared from activated kaolinite clay, were compared with new geopolymer adsorbents based on papermill sludge (FS MKGP). Adsorption fixed-bed column experiments with continuously circulated regeneration solution purified by air-stripping or the membrane approach were conducted to determine the limits of the regeneration solution’s application. Sodium and potassium salts were tested as regeneration agents, and the influence of regeneration solution composition on ammonium removal and recovery rates was investigated. Based on a breakthrough curve analysis, the removal rate of ammonium N by FS MKGP was found to be 3.2 times higher than that by MKGP for actual wastewater samples. Moreover, there were substantial differences in the regeneration regime between the two adsorbents. For the air-stripping technique, a liquid-phase temperature of 45°C was minimal and enough for efficient ammonia transfer to the gaseous phase. For the membrane technique, a feed-phase temperature of 40°C was enough for removing ammonia from the regeneration solution, while no heating of a receiving phase was required.
Built environment and travel behavior in rural areas: A scientometric literature review
Authors: Ao Yibin , Li Mingyang , Ding Xuan , Zheng Junjie , Xiao Shan , Deng Shulin , Zhang Zijun , Wang Yan , Wang Tong , Martek Igor
Published: November 2022

With the rise of global urbanization, the rural built environment has undergone tremendous changes. As such, the rural built environment impacts on residents’ daily travel behavior is getting more researchers’ attention. To date, most of the research focuses on urban areas in developed countries. To understand the state-of-the-art of interplay between the rural built environment and travel behaviors and to identify future research directions, this study adopts a science mapping approach to identify the relevant topics, authors, journals, and countries of the research done. This study proceeds through bibliometric retrieval of articles from 2005, followed by scientometric analysis and qualitative discussion. 37 documents are found to compare urban and rural domains, with 28 on the rural built environment. Research gaps and the research trends are discussed, of which the main themes are multi-dimensional correlation comparison of rural transportation service systems and emerging transportation modes, the influence of rural social and cultural factors on travel behavior, and low-carbon sustainable transportation. This review provides empirical foundation for current state-of-the-art and identifies the future research directions, specifically for rural built environment impact on travel behavior.
Pathophysiological conditions induced by SARS-CoV-2 infection reduce ACE2 expression in the lung
Authors: Miura Yoko , Ohkubo Hirotsugu , Nakano Akiko , Bourke Jane E. , Kanazawa Satoshi
Published: November 2022

SARS-CoV-2 infection causes a variety of physiological responses in the lung, and understanding how the expression of SARS-CoV-2 receptor, angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2), and its proteolytic activator, transmembrane serine protease 2 (TMPRSS2), are affected in patients with underlying disease such as interstitial pneumonia will be important in considering COVID-19 progression. We examined the expression of ACE2 and TMPRSS2 in an induced usual interstitial pneumonia (iUIP) mouse model and patients with IPF as well as the changes in whole-lung ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression under physiological conditions caused by viral infection. Histopathological and biochemical characteristics were analyzed using human specimens from patients with IPF and precision-cut lung slices (PCLS) from iUIP mouse model showing UIP with honeycombing and severe fibrosis after non-specific interstitial pneumonia. ACE2 expression decreased with acute lung inflammation and increased in the abnormal lung epithelium of the iUIP mouse model. ACE2 is also expressed in metaplastic epithelial cells. Poly(I:C), interferons, and cytokines associated with fibrosis decreased ACE2 expression in PCLS in the iUIP model. Hypoxia also decreases ACE2 via HIF1α in PCLS. Antifibrotic agent, nintedanib attenuates ACE2 expression in invasive epithelial cells. Patients with IPF are at a higher risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection due to the high expression of ACE2. However, ACE2 and TMPRSS2 expression is decreased by immune intermediaries, including interferons and cytokines that are associated with viral infection and upon administration of antifibrotic agents, suggesting that most of the viral infection-induced pathophysiological responses aid the development of resistance against SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Relationships of circulating CD4+ T cell subsets and cytokines with the risk of relapse in patients with Crohn’s disease
Authors: Duclaux-Loras Rémi , Boschetti Gilles , Flourie Bernard , Roblin Xavier , Leluduec Jean-Benoit , Paul Stéphane , Almeras Thibaut , Ruel Karine , Buisson Anthony , Bienvenu Jacques , Josson Cendrine , Jasnowski Renaud , Legastelois Stéphane , Foussat Arnaud , Meunier Camille , Viret Christophe , Rozieres Aurore , Faure Mathias , Kaiserlian Dominique , Nancey Stéphane
Published: November 2022

Background and aims

We aimed to analyze circulating CD4+T cell subsets and cytokines during the course of Crohn’s disease (CD).

Methods and results

CD4+T cell subsets, ultrasensitive C-reactive protein (usCRP), and various serum cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, IL-13, IL-17A, IL-23, TNFα, IFNγ, and TGFβ) were prospectively monitored every 3 months for 1 year, using multicolor flow cytometry and an ultrasensitive Erenna method in CD patients in remission at inclusion. Relapse occurred in 35 out of the 113 consecutive patients (31%). For patients in remission within 4 months prior to relapse and at the time of relapse, there was no significant difference in Th1, Th17, Treg, and double-positive CD4+T cell subsets co-expressing either IFNγ and FOXP3, IL-17A and FOXP3, or IFNγ and IL-17A. On the contrary, in patients who remained in remission, the mean frequency and number of double-positive IL-17A+FOXP3+CD4+T cells and the level of usCRP were significantly higher (p≤ 0.01) 1 to 4 months prior to relapse. At the time of relapse, only the IL-6 and usCRP levels were significantly higher (p≤ 0.001) compared with those patients in remission. On multivariate analysis, a high number of double-positive IL-17A+FOXP3+CD4+T cells (≥1.4 cells/mm3) and elevated serum usCRP (≥3.44 mg/L) were two independent factors associated with risk of relapse.

Conclusions

Detection of circulating double-positive FOXP3+IL-17A+CD4+T cell subsets supports that T cell plasticity may reflect the inflammatory context of Crohn’s disease. Whether this subset contributes to the pathogenesis of CD relapse needs further studies.
Electroencephalography spectral edge frequency and suppression rate-guided sedation in patients with COVID-19: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tobar Eduardo , Farías José I. , Rojas Verónica , Penna Antonello , Egaña José I. , Ponce Daniela , Bravo Daniela , Maldonado Felipe , Gajardo Abraham , Gutiérrez Rodrigo
Published: November 2022

Background

Sedation in coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients has been identified as a major challenge. We aimed to investigate whether the use of a multiparameter electroencephalogram (EEG) protocol to guide sedation in COVID-19 patients would increase the 30-day mechanical ventilation-free days (VFD).

Methods

We conducted a double-blind randomized clinical trial. We included patients with severe pneumonia due to COVID-19 who required mechanical ventilation (MV) and deep sedation. We randomized to the control (n = 25) or multiparameter group (n = 25). Sedation in the intervention group was administered following the standard institutional protocols together with a flow chart designed to reduce the propofol administration dose if the EEG suppression rate was over 2% or the spectral edge frequency 95 (SEF95) was below 10 Hz. We performed an intention-to-treat analysis to evaluate our primary outcome (30-day VFD).

Results

There was no difference in VFD at day 30 (median: 11 [IQR 0–20] days in the control group vs. 0 [IQR 0–21] days in the BIS multiparameter group, p = 0.87). Among secondary outcomes, we documented a 17% reduction in the total adjusted propofol administered during the first 5 days of the protocol [median: 2.3 (IQR 1.9–2.8) mg/k/h in the control group vs. 1.9(IQR 1.5–2.2) mg/k/h in the MP group, p = 0.005]. This was accompanied by a higher average BIS value in the intervention group throughout the treatment period.

Conclusion

A sedation protocol guided by multivariate EEG-derived parameters did not increase the 30-day VFD. However, the intervention led to a reduction in total propofol administration.