bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a test method for adhesive tapes certification and application
Authors: Linløkken Tore Kolstad , Geving Stig , Hrynyszyn Bozena Dorota
Published: December 2024

Sufficient airtightness of a building envelope is important both to ensure the overall energy efficiency of a building and to prevent moisture-related damage to the structure. Air leakages typically occur in the context of joints and perforations in vapor barriers installed inside walls and roofs. It is essential to give proper attention to details to achieve sufficient airtightness of building envelopes and joint’s durability. Sealing such building details with durable solutions is essential for ensuring sufficient airtightness overall. In recent years, adhesive tapes have increasingly been used for this application. However, there remains uncertainty regarding its performance in the long-term. The study offers an overview of the current state of the art by incorporating findings from a literature review including an analysis of established methods currently being used for evaluation of tape joint durability, as well as other experimental test methods. The aim of research presented in this paper is to contribute to the development of a test method with sufficient accuracy, reproducibility, and repeatability to be used in the development and certification of tape products and systems. Although the method in development displays limitations in terms of reproducibility, it is regarded as a promising concept. Through further development, the method is believed to be suitable for potential integration into wider evaluation programs addressing adhesive tape durability, supplementary to existing methods.
PCAT19: the role in cancer pathogenesis and beyond
Authors: Hu Haijun , Luo Hongliang , Deng Ziqing
Published: December 2024

PCAT19, a long non-coding RNA, has attracted considerable attention due to its diverse roles in various malignancies. This work compiles current research on PCAT19’s involvement in cancer pathogenesis and progression. Abnormal expression of PCAT19 has been observed in various cancers, and its correlation with clinical features and prognosis positions it as a promising prognostic biomarker. Additionally, its ability to effectively differentiate between tumor and normal tissues suggests significant diagnostic value. PCAT19 exhibits a dual nature, functioning either as an oncogene or a tumor suppressor, depending on the cancer type. It is implicated in a range of tumor-related activities, including cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, migration, metabolism, as well as tumor growth and metastasis. PCAT19 acts as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) or interacts with proteins to regulate critical cancer-related pathways, such as MELK signaling, p53 signaling, and cell cycle pathways. Furthermore, emerging evidence suggests that PCAT19 plays a role in the modulation of neuropathic pain, adding complexity to its functional repertoire. By exploring the molecular mechanisms and pathways associated with PCAT19, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of its multifaceted roles in human health and disease, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target for cancer and pain management.
Insights and therapeutic advances in pancreatic cancer: the role of electron microscopy in decoding the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Dai Hong , Chen Xingxuan , Yang Jiawen , Loiola Rodrigo Azevedo , Lu Aiping , Cheung Kenneth C. P.
Published: December 2024

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most lethal cancers, with a 5-year overall survival rate of less than 10%. Despite the development of novel therapies in recent decades, current chemotherapeutic strategies offer limited clinical benefits due to the high heterogeneity and desmoplastic tumor microenvironment (TME) of pancreatic cancer as well as inefficient drug penetration. Antibody- and nucleic acid-based targeting therapies have emerged as strong contenders in pancreatic cancer drug discovery. Numerous studies have shown that these strategies can significantly enhance drug accumulation in tumors while reducing systemic toxicity. Additionally, electron microscopy (EM) has been a critical tool for high-resolution analysis of the TME, providing insights into the ultrastructural changes associated with pancreatic cancer progression and treatment responses. This review traces the current and technological advances in EM, particularly the development of ultramicrotomy and improvements in sample preparation that have facilitated the detailed visualization of cellular and extracellular components of the TME. This review highlights the contribution of EM in assessing the efficacy of therapeutic agents, from revealing apoptotic changes to characterizing the effects of novel compounds like ionophore antibiotic gramicidin A on cellular ultrastructures. Moreover, the review delves into the potential of EM in studying the interactions between the tumor microbiome and cancer cell migration, as well as in aiding the development of targeted therapies like antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and aptamer-drug conjugates (ApDCs).
NGF-releasing Prussian blue nanoparticles for nerve injury repair of lumbar disc herniation
Authors: Tang Xiaoxing , Sun Xin , Ji Yun , Huang Xuehua , Xiao Shilin , Zhou Yanjing , Ma Ke , Yuan Hongjie
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Compression of the nerve root by a lumbar disc herniation can cause radiating pain in the lower limbs, and the nerve root decompression treatment may leave some patients with motor dysfunction and reduced sensory function. Studies have shown that nerve growth factor (NGF) can promote nerve growth and repair, but high doses, long duration, and immune response have become bottlenecks of its clinical application.

Methods

To overcome this obstacle, we developed Prussian blue (PBs) nanoparticles with the bio-delivery function and antioxidant effects of nanoenzymes. NGF was conjugated to the surface of PBs nanoparticles (PBs-NGF), which can be directly delivered to nerve cells.

Results

The results showed that free PBs showed great advantages in scavenging oxygen free radicals and antioxidants, while PBs-NGF showed good biocompatibility. At the cellular level, cell proliferation assay and fluorescence microscopy analysis confirmed that PBs-NGF significantly promoted the proliferation, differentiation, and neurite outgrowth of neuron-like PC12 cells compared with free NGF. In a nerve root compression (NRC) rat model, behavioral observations (paw withdrawal threshold, PWT, and paw withdrawal latency, PWL) confirmed that PBs-NGF eased the pain caused by nerve root compression. H&E staining showed that PBs-NGF could significantly reduce the inflammatory infiltration of nerve roots, and ELISA results showed that the concentrations of inflammatory markers (IL-6, IL-1β, and TNF-α) were also significantly reduced.

Conclusion

In summary, the developed functional nanoplatform provides a basis for the clinical application of NGF in lumbar nerve root injury with disc herniation compression and a new treatment strategy for patients.
Preparation, characterization, and protective effects of Gardenia fructus carbon dots against oxidative damage induced by LPS in IPEC-J2 cells
Authors: Chen Bai-lu , Zang Xin-yi , Mo Jia-rong , Zhang Ruo-yi , Wang Heng , Wang Quan-xi , Li Jian
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to prepare Gardenia fructus carbon dots (GF-CDs) and examine their efficacy in mitigating oxidative stress and apoptosis in intestinal porcine epithelial cells from the jejunum (IPEC-J2 cells) induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). The GF-CDs were synthesized using a one-step hydrothermal method. The oxidative damage model of IPEC-J2 cells was induced through LPS treatment. The potential mechanism by which GF-CDs affect cellular oxidative damage was examined through the perspectives of apoptosis, reactive oxygen species level, antioxidant-related enzyme index, mRNA transcription of antioxidant-related genes, and the expression of antioxidant proteins. The results revealed that GF-CDs, characterized by particle sizes<7 nm, abundant functional groups, and good water solubility, were synthesized using a one-step hydrothermal method. The carbon spots of Gardenia fructus at concentrations of 50, 100, and 200 μg/mL exhibited protective effects, as evidenced by their ability to enhance viability (P<0.01) and restore cellular morphology after oxidative damage. The GF-CDs decreased oxidative damage and reduced the apoptosis rate of cells by upregulating AKT1 expression and downregulating the expression of Caspase 3, STAT3, TNF-α, and JNK. These results indicate that GF-CDs have the characteristic physicochemical properties of CDs, exhibit biological activities related to antioxidation and cellular damage mitigation, and may serve as a potential healthcare product in swine raising.
Gut microbiome and clinical and lifestyle host factors associated with recurrent positive RT-PCR for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Jiménez-Arroyo Cristina , Molinero Natalia , Sabater Carlos , Margolles Abelardo , Terrón-Camero Laura Carmen , Andrés-León Eduardo , Ramos Manuel , del Val Margarita , Moreno-Arribas M. Victoria
Published: December 2024

Background

SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 are still active in the population. Some patients remained PCR-positive for more than 4 weeks, called “persistently PCR-positive”. Recent evidence suggests a link between the gut microbiota and susceptibility to COVID-19, although no studies have explored persistent PCR conditions. We aimed to evaluate the relationship between persistent positive SARS-CoV-2 RT-PCR, the gut microbiome, and individual host determinants.

Methods

A shotgun metagenomic analysis was conducted on fecal samples from 28 individuals affected by COVID-19. Patients were divided into two groups: those who had cleared the virus within 30 days (designated as the control group) (n = 15), and those who remained PCR-positive beyond 30 days (called the PCR+ group) (n = 13). We also investigated the correlation between prolonged viral clearance and several additional factors, including clinical parameters, immune responses, microbial metabolites, and dietary habits.

Results

The composition and functionality of the microbiome varied based on the duration of positivity as determined by PCR. Compared to the control group, the persistent PCR+ group exhibited elevated pathogen levels and augmented diversity in functional gene families (p-value < 0.05). A multi-omics analysis integrating metagenomics, metabolites, and metadata also revealed the specific contribution of certain blood markers in this group, including basophils, IgM, IgG (both general and specific for SARS-CoV-2), and markers of liver damage. Unhealthy diet was identified as a significant factor influencing the duration of PCR positivity.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that the gut microbiome may play a role in delayed viral clearance and persistent positive RT-PCR results. Our study also contributes to the understanding of the role of host factors as mediators linking the gut microbiota and disease outcomes. Further large-scale studies must confirm these data; however, they suggest the relevance of monitoring microbiome changes in the early post-viral years to control SARS-CoV-2 and providing individual healthcare support.
Goals for, insecurity in, and self-perceptions of peer status: short term longitudinal associations with relational aggression and prosocial behaviors in emerging adults
Authors: Findley-Van Nostrand Danielle , Campbell Benjamin
Published: December 2024

Research on relational aggression in adolescents suggests it is in part driven by the desire to attain and maintain enhanced status among peers, and recent work also suggests certain forms of prosocial behaviors are similarly status-motivated. However, these associations are not well understood in young adults. In this short-term longitudinal study across 8 months (N = 215), we examined whether relational aggression and two forms of prosocial behaviors (altruistic and public) are related to social goals for popularity and preference, social status insecurity, and self-perceptions of status (in terms of dominance and prestige) concurrently and over time in emerging adults (age 18–25). Social goals for popularity predicted increases in relational aggression and public prosociality and were negatively related to and predicted decreases in altruistic prosociality. Preference goals were concurrently negatively related to relational aggression and to public prosociality and were positively related to and predicted increases in altruistic prosociality over time. Social status insecurity moderated links between self-perceptions of status and aggressive/prosocial behaviors, which were largely non-significant without considering status insecurity. Finally, tests of indirect effects suggest that aggression and prosociality mediate associations between popularity goals and self-perceptions of dominance. Findings suggest that strategic use of aggression and prosociality may not be developmentally limited to adolescence.
Validation of atmospheric evaporation duct in the eastern Indian Ocean
Authors: Qi Zhe , Mao Huabin , Qiu Chunhua , Qi Yongfeng
Published: December 2024

An atmospheric duct is an anomalous atmospheric structural phenomenon that causes trap refraction in the troposphere to change the propagation paths and ranges of electromagnetic waves, thereby increasing the detection distances of radar and other communications. Atmospheric ducts include evaporation, surface, and elevated ducts. Evaporation ducts are commonly found near the sea surface and can impact electromagnetic wave propagation, radar communication, and livelihood applications at low altitudes. The meteorological environment of the Indian Ocean is complex, and the characteristics of its evaporation duct are still poorly understood. We validate four select atmospheric duct models using the observed evaporation duct height (EDH) in the Indian Ocean and present their spatial as well as temporal characterizations in spring using in situ meteorological variables. The results show that the EDH derived using the Babin model has the lowest bias with the observed value; thus, the Babin model can be used by researchers in the future to study changes to the EDHs in sea areas with similar seasonal conditions. The EDH in the Indian Ocean has diurnal variations, with higher (lower) values during the daytime (nighttime). The EDH has a negative correlation with the relative humidity, and the standard deviation of the EDH is largest when the relative humidity is 90%. The EDH has the maximum value when the wind speed is in the range of 8–14 m/s and when the air–sea temperature difference is zero, i.e., ∆T=Tair−Tsea=0. This study validates four different EDH models in the Indian Ocean, thus broadening our knowledge on the tropical atmospheric boundary layer.
Characteristics of water stable isotopes and runoff sources of a small permafrost basin in northeastern China
Authors: Zhang Boxiong , Zang Shuying , Zhao Lin , Wu Xiaodong , Liu Rui , Dong Xingfeng , Yang Dongyu , Cheng Xiaofeng
Published: December 2024

Permafrost degradation may have significant impacts on regional water cycles, while little is known about the recharge sources of runoff in permafrost regions, hindering our capability to predict river discharges. Here, a small permafrost basin in Northeast China was selected as the study area. We analyzed isotopic tracers of 186 precipitation, river water, and supra-permafrost water samples collected from May to October 2021. We further calculated the contribution of supra-permafrost water and precipitation to river discharges. The δ18O and δD of precipitation exhibited a significant correlation with air temperature (p<0.05). Similar values and trends were observed in the stable isotope changes of river water and supra-permafrost water, indicating a close hydraulic relationship between the two water sources. Hydrograph separation revealed that supra-permafrost water and precipitation are the first and second end-member of river water in the basin, with a contribution of 85% and 15%, respectively. Overall, our results suggest that supra-permafrost water is the main recharge source of runoff, highlighting the importance of permafrost in the regulation of runoff in small catchments.
Pressure relief for drilling (trenching) and support technology in deep soft rock tunnels
Authors: Ling Yang , Ying Xu
Published: December 2024

Controlling surrounding rock stability in deep soft rock tunnels solely by increasing the support strength is challenging. The key areas where the surrounding rock of a roadway is prone to “instability” should be treated with comprehensive measures, such as drilling to relieve pressure, grouting of the surrounding rock, floor trenching technology, and secondary support, to achieve overall stability of the roadway surrounding rock. In this paper, based on a typical straight wall semi-circular arch roadway project in the Huaibei mining area of Anhui Province, mechanical parameters, such as cohesion, internal friction angle, Poisson’s ratio, and elastic modulus of the surrounding rock, were measured. Displacement stress distribution in surrounding roadway rock were simulated and analyzed using FLAC 3D, and the key parts of the surrounding rock prone to instability under the original roadway support conditions were determined. A suitable arrangement and parameters of the borehole pressure relief in the side roadway, floor grouting, floor trenching, and floor bolt secondary support were selected. Engineering measurements indicated that the engineering techniques were successful. It provided a significant reference for the comprehensive management and treatment of the surrounding rock stability in deep soft rock roadway on a global scale.
On the mathematical content of financial literacy items
Authors: Dorner Christian
Published: December 2024

In light of the growing intricacy of the financial sector, there is a growing imperative for individuals to possess a robust understanding of financial principles and practices. Since the global financial crisis of 2008, a variety of financial education programmes have been introduced. It is therefore not surprising that the state of financial literacy in society is becoming a topic of great interest. For this reason, surveys have been developed to assess the level of financial education in a society. Some of the items used also seem to test mathematical proficiency. This article takes a closer look at selected financial literacy items. In more detail, it considers the mathematical content of these items, the necessity of mathematical thinking for answering the items and ideas for application-oriented teaching in mathematics that can be derived from the items. The analysis shows that a wide range of mathematical topics are addressed in the items. In most cases, there are two possible lines of reasoning to arrive at the answer, one mathematical and one economic. Unless quantification is involved, then a mathematical approach is unavoidable. The items provide a couple of ideas for financial topics that can be integrated into mathematics courses, for example risk considerations. From this perspective, mathematics teaching can be seen to support the idea of financial literacy as a cross-curricular subject.
The association between the metabolic score for insulin resistance and mortality in patients with cardiovascular disease: a national cohort study
Authors: Su Xiaozhou , Rao Huiqing , Zhao Chunli , Zhang Xianwei , Li Donghua
Published: December 2024

Background

The metabolic score for insulin resistance (METS-IR) is a novel index for evaluating insulin resistance and identifying high-risk cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients. This study aims to assess the prognostic value of METS-IR in predicting mortality risk in CVD patients.

Methods

We analyzed data from 2,515 CVD patients in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Associations between METS-IR and all-cause mortality and cardiovascular mortality were evaluated using multivariable Cox proportional hazards models and restricted cubic splines (RCS). Threshold effects and sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure robustness.

Results

Over a median follow-up of 91.4 months, 1,090 patients died, including 447 from cardiovascular causes. A U-shaped relationship was identified between lnMETS-IR and all-cause and cardiovascular mortality, with thresholds at 3.70 and 3.67. Below thresholds, an increase of lnMETS-IR was associated with a 75% reduction in the risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 0.25, 95% CI: 0.14–0.46) and a 79% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular mortality (HR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.07–0.56). While above thresholds, an increase of lnMETS-IR was associated with a 180% increase in the risk of all-cause mortality (HR: 2.80, 95% CI: 1.61–4.88) and a 233% increase in the risk of cardiovascular mortality (HR: 3.33, 95% CI: 1.43–7.75).

Conclusions

This study identified a U-shaped association between lnMETS-IR and mortality among CVD patients, underscoring the potential of METS-IR as a valuable prognostic marker for mortality risk in patients with CVD.
A systematic review of the association between insulin resistance surrogate indices and bone mineral density
Authors: Shirinezhad Amirhossein , Azarboo Alireza , Ghaseminejad-Raeini Amirhossein , Kanaani Nejad Fatemeh , Zareshahi Negar , Amiri Sheyda Mohtasham , Tahmasebi Yasamin , Hoveidaei Amir Human
Published: December 2024

Background

The relationship of insulin resistance with bone mineral density (BMD) remains unclear, offering an opportunity for novel indices to shed light on the matter. The aim of this review was to evaluate the association between surrogate indices of insulin resistance and BMD.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted to evaluate observational studies that examined the relationship between insulin resistance surrogate indices and BMD in adults. Databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Embase were searched. Quality assessment was performed using Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) critical appraisal tools.

Results

This systematic review included 27 cohorts and cross-sectional studies with 71,525 participants to assess the potential link between insulin resistance surrogate indices like HOMA-IR, HOMA-β, TyG, TyG-BMI, TyG-WtHR, and TyG-WC, along with METS-IR, and VAI, and BMD at various sites. There seems to be no link between BMD and the HOMA index, despite being extensively studied in various studies (adjusted β ranging from -0.49 to 0.103). Most literature suggests that a higher TyG index is associated with decreased BMD levels (adjusted β ranging from -0.085 to 0.0124). Despite limited evidence, other insulin resistance indices such as VAI (adjusted β ranging from 0.007 to 0.016), TyG-BMI (adjusted β ranging from 0.002 to 0.415), METS-IR (adjusted β ranging from 0.005 to 0.060), TyG-WtHR (β = 0.012) and TyG-WC (β = 0.0001) have shown a positive association with BMD in a few studies.

Conclusion

This systematic review emphasizes the intricate connection between insulin resistance and BMD. The lack of ability to perform a meta-analysis and the dependence on cross-sectional studies hinder the robustness of the findings, hence necessitating well-designed longitudinal studies.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier CRD42024512770.
System frequency response model and droop coefficient setting considering renewable energy participation in frequency regulation
Authors: Song Yuyan , Zhang Yongjie , Zhang Shuai , Liu Fang , Su Yunche , Liu Yang
Published: December 2024

The highly uncertain and uncontrollable power output of renewable energy sources (RES), when integrated into power systems at high penetration levels, reduces system inertia and introduces uncertain changes in system structure, parameters, and frequency response characteristics. This renders traditional frequency regulation analysis methods and frequency response models inapplicable, lacking a generalized model to describe renewable energy’s participation in frequency regulation. Thus, this paper proposes a method where RES utilize suitable means to reduce load, thereby contributing to frequency regulation. Furthermore, employing Virtual Synchronous Machine (VSM) technology, these renewable energy units emulate the inertia and droop characteristics of Synchronous Generators (SG), enabling their equivalent modeling alongside traditional generators within a single-machine aggregate model. An SFR (System Frequency Response) model integrating renewable energy’s frequency regulation has been established. This model enables the analysis of the relationships between the system’s equivalent droop coefficient and the frequency nadir, nadir time, and quasi-steady-state point. Furthermore, the required equivalent droop coefficients are proposed for various sending-end system capacities and operating conditions. Finally, the model’s validity and accuracy are confirmed through a modified WSCC 4-machine 10-bus system, offering theoretical underpinnings for stable system operation and optimized operational planning.
Assessment of meteorological and socioeconomic drought conditions in the Tekeze watershed, northern Ethiopia
Authors: Tela Yonas Tesfay , Wassie Simachew Bantigegn , Ferede Mehrete Belay
Published: December 2024

In northern Ethiopia, meteorological droughts overwhelm crops and often lead people to food insecurity and poverty traps. Socioeconomic droughts similarly aggravate poverty and impact livelihoods; causing significant challenge on communities. Such issues in the area were not researched and not well addressed. Hence, the objective of this study was to evaluate the temporal and spatial trends of meteorological drought and the implied socioeconomic drought impacts in the Tekeze Watershed. The main data sources for this study included survey questionnaires, field observations, and CHIRPS data. Precipitation data from various stations were also employed to validate the CHIRPS data using a random forest regression model. The results revealed a strong coefficient of determination for the model, with values of 0.88, 0.87, 0.88, and 0.84 for the Mekele Obseva, Sekota, Yichila, and Ashere stations, respectively. This indicates that the precipitation recorded at these stations can be well-explained by the CHIRPS data. The temporal trends of meteorological drought showed that most of the years faced shortage of rainfall, where the year 2015 exceptionally faced a severe drought. The drought conditions in the area were exacerbating from time to time with a drought reoccurrence period of 2 years. The socioeconomic drought also found similar results within the agricultural drought that the years 2000, 2002, 2004–5, 2009–11, 2013–15, 2017, and 2021–23 were affected by droughts of different severity levels and associated socioeconomic impacts. Accordingly, almost all (99.5%) of the respondents reported that they were personally experiencing droughts. The major causes of drought in the study watershed were climate variability, land use changes, land degradation, water mismanagement, deforestation, war, and desert locusts. The consequences of these overlapping crises include pandemics, malnutrition, displacement, crop losses, desertification, and conflicts over resource use. While proposed interventions like improved irrigation, water infrastructure, drought-resistant crops, and emergency relief were intended to address these issues, ill-guided procedures and inadequate execution have undermined their effectiveness. Thus, these measures have not been successfully implemented and have fallen short of addressing the tangible impacts of drought. To this end, the study recommends effective implementation of the mitigation measures initially implemented by the government and nongovernmental organizations, emphasizing the active involvement of the local community.
Dynamic evolution and influencing factors of green total factor productivity in the Yangtze River Economic Belt: a study based on the three-stage SBM-ML index model
Authors: Chen Fei , Zhu Liling , Li Yi
Published: December 2024

Achieving sustainable development that harmonizes environmental protection with economic growth in the Yangtze River Economic Belt (YREB) remains a critical area of research. Examining green total factor productivity (GTFP) aids in pinpointing the key factors and pathways essential for fostering green economic development. On the basis of 108 prefecture-level cities in the YREB, a three-stage SBM-ML index model was constructed to measure the GTFP level from 2009 to 2022. ArcGIS software was used to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution of GTFP dynamically. Finally, the multidimensional factors affecting GTFP were systematically analyzed via the Tobit model. The study revealed that (1) GTFP exhibits notable spatial disparities among the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the YREB, with the downstream areas showing higher levels than the upstream and midstream areas do. (2) After excluding environmental factors and random errors, the true GTFP level significantly decreases, indicating a notable environmental masking effect, with a masking effect of up to 63.9%. (3) The spatial distribution of GTFP overall shows a “low-high-low-high” pattern from west to east, forming an “N”-shaped spatial pattern. (4) The Tobit model regression results show that government governance enhances GTFP, while economic growth and intergovernmental fiscal decentralization hinder real GTFP. Although urbanization was initially insignificant, it significantly boosted real GTFP post-COVID-19. Finally, policy recommendations to promote green development in river basins are proposed.
Measurement and optimization paths of the multidimensional development levels of counties in the Yellow River Basin: based on the sustainable livelihoods framework
Authors: Cheng Lisha , Ma Li , Qiao Jiajun , Li Xiaoyue
Published: December 2024

The Yellow River Basin (YRB) faces intense man-land conflicts. However, existing studies rarely focus on the comprehensive and multidimensional development levels in the YRB, and there is a lack of refined county-level studies, making it difficult to fully support the implementation of ecological protection and high-quality development strategy in the YRB. Under the Sustainable Livelihoods Framework, the spatial distribution, differences, and correlation characteristics of the multidimensional development levels of counties in the YRB are disclosed. This is achieved by comprehensively utilizing geospatial, socio-economic, and other multi-source data in combination with methods such as the entropy weight method, the Theil index, and spatial analysis. Optimal development paths are proposed with a focus on the development types of counties. The findings are as follows: (1) Counties in the YRB have a low overall multidimensional development level, presenting a spatial distribution pattern of “high in the east and low in the west” overall. In terms of each dimension, the average value ranking of lower reach > middle reach > upper reach is observed in each dimension; the exception is the financial dimension (with the ranking of middle reach > lower reach > upper reach). (2) Differences between counties in the development indices vary across different dimensions. The differences in the multidimensional development indices and in the development indices of each dimension (except for the natural dimension) are mainly attributable to differences between counties within each reach. Differences between reaches are non-significant. (3) The multidimensional development levels of counties in the YRB and their development levels in each dimension show strong spatial correlation. And significant counties are mainly identified as LL-type (clusters of low value areas) and HH-type (clusters of high value areas). (4) Depending on the measurement results and advantageous factors of the county multidimensional development index, counties are classified into four development types: weak development type, single-dimension-led development type, potential coordinated development type, and multidimensional coordinated development type. Based on this classification, targeted optimal development paths are proposed with a focus on the specific characteristics of different development types. The research findings can provide effective scientific support for ecological protection and high-quality development in the YRB.
The risk status, signatures of adaptation, and environmental suitability of village-based indigenous chickens from certain regions of Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal provinces of South Africa
Authors: Mogano Reneilwe Rose , Mpofu Takalani Judas , Mtileni Bohani , Hadebe Khanyisile
Published: December 2024

Indigenous chickens are an important Farm Animal Genetic Resource (FAnGR) in South Africa as they alleviate poverty and are a source of protein. Climate change and market demand for high-performing exotic breeds threaten and undermine locally adapted village chickens. The current study explored the risk status and signatures of adaptation of village-based indigenous chickens from two provinces and mapped their environmental suitability across the country. A total of 244 village chickens from rural areas of the Capricorn (n = 85) and Sekhukhune (n = 113) districts of Limpopo province; the Harry Gwala (n = 21) and uMzinyathi (n = 25) districts of KwaZulu-Natal province were genotyped using the Illumina 60K BeadChip. The conservation flock comprised Ovambo (OV; n = 10), Potchefstroom KoeKoek (PK; n = 20), and Venda (VD; n = 20). Naked Neck (NN; n = 20), New Hampshire (NH; n = 10), White Leghorn (WL; n = 10), and White Plymouth Rock (WR; n = 10) from the Agricultural Research Council Poultry Breeding Unit were used as reference populations and representative of flocks under conservation. The effective population size (Ne) in village chickens and conserved flocks ranged from 18 to 53 and 26 to 38 at 12 generations ago, respectively. PC1 and PC2 explained 5.64% of the total variation, which resulted in five clusters with the Venda, Naked Neck, and White Leghorn being separated from village chickens. The first three redundancy analysis (RDA) axes capture 46.8% of the total genetic variation used to detect significant outlier SNPs. A total of 386 outlier SNPs associated with all 10 environmental variables were detected. Using ecological niche modeling, chickens from Dipakakeng, Mgababa, and Podu villages, Limpopo, had a localized predicted suitability probability, while chickens originating from Nhlonga village, KwaZulu-Natal, had a broader distribution of predicted suitability habitats with elevation and BIO6 being important variables. The results of this study provide insight into the risk status, geographic suitability, and contributing environmental factors of indigenous chickens that can be used to influence conservation and improvement decisions.
Antigen–antibody complex density and antibody-induced HLA protein unfolding influence Fc-mediated antibody effector function
Authors: Murali Tanusya Murali , Gu Yue , Minhat Rabiatul Adawiyah , Yap Jiawei , Wood Kathryn J. , Wang Cheng-I , Gascoigne Nicholas R. J. , Anantharaman Vathsala , MacAry Paul Anthony
Published: December 2024

Donor-specific antibodies (DSAs) targeting mismatched human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules are one of the principal threats to long-term graft survival in solid organ transplantation. However, many patients with long-term circulating DSAs do not manifest rejection responses, suggesting a degree of heterogeneity in their pathogenicity and related functional activity. Immunologic risk stratification of transplant recipients is complicated by challenges intrinsic to defining alloantibody responses that are potentially pathogenic versus those that are not. Thus, a comprehensive understanding of how human alloantibodies target and interact with donor HLA molecules is vital for the development and evaluation of new strategies aimed at reducing antibody-mediated rejection responses. In this study, we employ hydrogen–deuterium exchange–mass spectrometry (HDX–MS), molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, and advanced biochemical and biophysical methodologies to thoroughly characterize a panel of human monoclonal alloantibodies and define the influence of Fc-region biology, antibody binding kinetics, target antigen density, and structural characteristics on their ability to potentiate the forms of immune effector mechanisms that are strongly implicated in transplant rejection. Our findings have significant implications for our understanding of the key biological determinants that underlie the pathogenicity or lack thereof of human alloantibodies.
SARS-CoV-2 strains and clinical profiles of COVID-19 patients in a Southern Brazil hospital
Authors: Fam Bibiana S. de Oliveira , Cadore Nathan Araujo , Sbruzzi Renan , Feira Marilea Furtado , Giudicelli Giovanna Câmara , de Almeida Luiz G. P. , Gerber Alexandra L. , Guimarães Ana Paula de C. , Vasconcelos Ana Tereza Ribeiro , Pereira Alexandre C. , Pereira Lygia V. , Hünemeier Tábita , Camey Suzi Alves , Vianna Fernanda S. Luiz
Published: December 2024

Introduction

The COVID-19 pandemic had a widespread global impact and presented numerous challenges. The emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants has changed transmission rates and immune evasion, possibly impacting the severity. This study aims to investigate the impact of variants on clinical outcomes in southern Brazil.

Methods

In total, samples from 277 patients, hospitalized and non-hospitalized, were collected between March 2020 and March 2021, before the vaccine was made widely available to the general population in Brazil. Whole genome sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 was performed and bioinformatics and biostatistics analyses were implemented on molecular and clinical data, respectively.

Results

The study identified significant demographic and clinical differences. The hospitalized group exhibited a higher proportion of males (51.9%) and an increased prevalence of comorbidities, including hypertension (66.0%), obesity (42.6%), and chronic kidney disease (23.6%). Patients were identified with twelve SARS-CoV-2 strains, predominantly B.1.1.28 and B.1.1.33 in the early 2020 first wave, and P.1 overlapping in the late 2020 and early 2021 second wave of COVID-19. Significant differences in hospitalization rates were found among patients infected with the different SARS-CoV-2 lineages: B.1.1.33 (46.0%), B.1.1.28 (65.9%), and P.1 (97.9%). Severity markers, such as pneumonia (62.5%, p=0.002), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS, 72.9%, p<0.001), and oxygen support >6 L/min O2 (64.6%, p<0.001), were more frequent in patients from the second wave. These findings highlight the impact of different variants on the clinical evolution and prognosis of COVID-19, especially when comparing the first and second waves of the pandemic.

Conclusions

The study underscores the association between SARS-CoV-2 strains and COVID-19 severity by integrating clinical and viral data for public health responses during different pandemic phases, highlighting the importance of adapting pandemic strategies as the pandemic evolves.
Serum fatty acid profiles in systemic lupus erythematosus and patient reported outcomes: The Michigan Lupus Epidemiology & Surveillance (MILES) Program
Authors: Gilley Kristen N. , Fenton Jenifer I. , Zick Suzanna M. , Li Kexin , Wang Lu , Marder Wendy , McCune W. Joseph , Jain Raghav , Herndon-Fenton Sidney , Hassett Afton L. , Barbour Kamil E. , Pestka James J. , Somers Emily C.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Despite progress in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) treatment, challenges persist in medication adherence due to side effects and costs. Precision nutrition, particularly adjusting fatty acid intake, offers a cost-effective strategy for enhancing SLE management. Prior research, including our own, indicates that increased consumption of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) correlates with improved outcomes in SLE patients. Here we build upon these findings by investigating associations between serum fatty acids—grouped as PUFAs, monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), and saturated fatty acids (SFAs)—and lupus activity, pain, and sleep disturbance.

Methods

Using data from 418 participants with SLE in the Michigan Lupus Epidemiology and Surveillance (MILES) Cohort, we examined associations between serum levels of 25 fatty acids determined by GC-MS and patient-reported outcomes. Disease activity, pain, and sleep quality were assessed using standardized questionnaires. Generalized additive models and partial residual plots were utilized to examine the linearity of fatty acid effects. Variable selection was performed using Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator (LASSO), followed by multiple linear regression adjusting for sociodemographic factors.

Results

Findings indicated favorable associations between ω-3 PUFAs—and, to a lesser extent, ω-6 PUFAs—and patient-reported outcomes, while MUFAs and SFAs showed unfavorable associations. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 PUFA, exhibited the most robust favorable associations across all outcomes. Additionally, the omega-3 α-linolenic acid (ALA) was linked to reduced pain, whereas eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), another omega-3, was associated with worsened disease activity and pain. Among omega-6 PUFAs, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) was favorably associated with disease activity, while the omega-9 PUFA Mead acid was linked to increased pain.

Discussion

These findings underscore the prospect that increased tissue levels of long-chain omega-3 PUFAs, particularly DHA, are favorably associated with SLE outcomes. Although further research is needed to establish causal relationships, existing evidence supports the role of omega-3 PUFAs in managing cardiovascular and chronic kidney disease, common SLE comorbidities. Most study participants exhibited low omega-3 PUFA status, suggesting substantial potential for improvement through targeted dietary interventions and supplementation. This study supports a potential role for precision nutrition in comprehensive SLE management, considering the impact of PUFAs, SFAs and MUFAs.
Impact of COVID-19, lockdowns and vaccination on immune responses in a HIV cohort in the Netherlands
Authors: Otten Twan , Jiang Xun , Gupta Manoj Kumar , Vadaq Nadira , Cleophas-Jacobs Maartje , dos Santos Jéssica C. , Groenendijk Albert , Vos Wilhelm , van Eekeren Louise E. , Blaauw Marc J. T. , Meeder Elise M.G. , Richel Olivier , Matzaraki Vasiliki , van Lunzen Jan , Joosten Leo A. B. , Li Yang , Xu Cheng-Jian , van der Ven Andre , Netea Mihai G.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

During the COVID-19 pandemic, major events with immune-modulating effects at population-level included COVID-19 infection, lockdowns, and mass vaccinations campaigns. As immune responses influence many immune-mediated diseases, population scale immunological changes may have broad consequences.

Methods

We investigated the impact of lockdowns, COVID-19 infection and vaccinations on immune responses in the 2000HIV study including 1895 asymptomatic virally-suppressed people living with HIV recruited between October 2019 and October 2021. Their inflammatory profile was assessed by targeted plasma proteomics, immune responsiveness by cytokine production capacity of circulating immune cells, and epigenetic profile by genome-wide DNA methylation of immune cells.

Results

Past mild COVID-19 infection had limited long-term immune effects. In contrast, COVID-19 vaccines and especially lockdowns significantly altered both the epigenetic profile in immune cells at DNA methylation level and immune responses. Lockdowns resulted in a strong overall exaggerated immune responsiveness, while COVID-19 vaccines moderately dampened immune responses. Lockdown-associated immune responsiveness alterations were confirmed in 30 healthy volunteers from the 200FG cohort that, like the 2000HIV study, is part of the Human Functional Genomics Project.

Discussion

Our data suggest that lockdowns have unforeseen immunological effects. Furthermore, COVID-19 vaccines have immunological effects beyond anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity, and studies of their impact on non-COVID-19 immune-mediated pathology are warranted.
Revitalizing tetanus vaccine literacy post road accidents: a comprehensive examination of knowledge and awareness initiative among non-medical university students in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Ayub Fiza , Saleem Wahaj , Shahid Muhammad Awais , Hussain Khan Muhammad Afzal , Suleiman Amal K. , Akram Laiba , Sajid Sadaf , Bukhsh Allah , Baig Mirza Rafi , Khan Tahir Mehmood
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Tetanus, caused by Clostridium tetani, poses a life-threatening risk by affecting the nervous system and inducing muscle tightness. The objective of this study is to examine the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of non-medical university students regarding the tetanus vaccine in the context of post-road accidents.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2023, involving 378 students from non-medical disciplines, primarily from information technology, business administration, and engineering faculties, with a mean age of 20.7 years. The sample size was calculated using the Raosoft sample calculator, and participants were selected via consecutive random sampling. Data was collected through a structured, self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS 22.0.

Results

Gender distribution was 51.6% female and 48.4% male. Out of the 378 students, 53.4% (p=0.003) were unaware of tetanus contraction sources, 52.8% (p=0.004) lacked knowledge of its symptoms and 68.3% (p=0.004) were unfamiliar with the total number of doses. An appreciable 88.9% (p0.063) are willing to receive post-accident tetanus vaccination, reflecting positive attitudes and openness to preventive measures. Similarly, the p-values >0.05 show no gender disparity in willingness to receive tetanus vaccination (p=0.063) and recommending vaccination to others after a road accident (p=0.879).

Conclusions

Notwithstanding participants' positive attitudes, the results indicate poor knowledge of tetanus regarding its transmission, symptoms, and doses. Interventions should focus on refining practical aspects of education, including symptom recognition, vaccine efficacy, duration, and the importance of sustaining immunity.
High cumulative glucocorticoid dose is associated with increased levels of inflammation-related mediators in active rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Petrackova Anna , Horak Pavel , Savara Jakub , Skacelova Martina , Kriegova Eva
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are widely used as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), leading to high cumulative doses in long-term treated patients. The impact of a high cumulative GC dose on the systemic inflammatory response in RA remains poorly understood.

Methods

We investigated long-treated patients with RA (n = 72, median disease duration 14 years) through blood counts and the serum levels of 92 inflammation-related proteins, and disease activity was assessed using the Simple Disease Activity Index (SDAI). Patients were grouped based on the cumulative GC dose, with a cut-off value of 20 g (low/high, n = 49/23).

Results and discussion

Patients with a high cumulative GC dose within the active RA group had elevated serum levels in 23 inflammation-related proteins compared with patients with a low dose (cytokines/soluble receptors: CCL3, CCL20, CCL25, IL-8, CXCL9, IL-17A, IL-17C, IL-18, sIL-18R1, IL-10, sIL-10RB, OSM and sOPG; growth factors: sTGFα and sHGF; other inflammatory mediators: caspase 8, STAMBP, sCDCP1, sirtuin 2, 4E-BP1, sCD40, uPA and axin-1; pcorr < 0.05). In non-active RA, the high and low GC groups did not differ in analysed serum protein levels. Moreover, patients with active RA with a high GC dose had an increased white blood cell count, increased neutrophil–lymphocyte and platelet–lymphocyte ratios and a decreased lymphocyte–monocyte ratio compared with the low dose group (p < 0.05). This is the first study to report elevated serum levels in inflammation-related proteins and deregulated blood counts in patients with active RA with a high cumulative GC dose. The elevated systemic inflammation highlights the importance of improving care for patients receiving high cumulative GC doses.