bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy pada Otak: Prinsip dan Aplikasi Klinis
Authors: Yueniwati Yuyun , Putri Sonia Laras , Aurora Habiba
Published: February 2024

Selamat datang dalam dunia ilmiah yang penuh penemuan baru dan pemahaman yang lebih mendalam tentang otak manusia. Buku ini akan membuka pintu bagi Anda untuk menjelajahi aspek penting dari teknologi magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) dalam pemahaman otak kita. MRS bukan sekadar alat, melainkan sebuah jendela menuju kompleksitas organ yang paling misterius dalam tubuh manusia. Buku ini dimulai dengan memperkenalkan Anda pada prinsip dasar MRS. Kami akan membahas bagaimana MRS bekerja, apa yang membuatnya unik, dan bagaimana ia mampu mengungkap rahasia otak melalui spektrumnya yang menakjubkan. Anda akan diajak untuk memahami metode akuisisi pencitraan yang digunakan dalam teknik ini, sehingga Anda dapat melihat bagaimana informasi otak dipetakan dengan cermat. Namun, MRS tidak sekadar tentang gambaran visual. Kami juga akan mengungkapkan pentingnya neurokimia yang dapat diidentifikasi melalui spektrum MRS. Iniadalah kunci untuk memahamifungsi dan gangguan otak pada tingkat kimia. Kami akan menjelaskan bagaimana molekul-molekul seperti neurotransmitter, metabolit, dan banyak lagi, dapat diidentifikasi dan digunakan untuk memaham iotak lebih dalam. Tapi mengapa ini semua penting? lImu ini tidak hanya relevan dalam dunia penelitian, tetapi juga dalam dunia praktik klinis yang berdampak besar pada bidang kedokteran. MRS telah membuka pintu untuk memahami secara lebih mendalam berbagai kondisi kesehatan otak. Ini mencakup gangguan neurologis seperti epilepsi, stroke, dan tumor otak, serta penyakit neurodegeneratif seperti Alzheimer dan Parkinson. Buku ini diharapkan dapat memberikan wawasan yang berharga kepada para praktisi medis, peneliti, dan mahasiswa yang tertarik dalam ilmu kedokteran, ilmu saraf, dan teknologi diagnostik terkini. Dengan pemahaman yang lebih baik tentang otak manusia melalui MRS, kita membuka pintu menuju masa depan yang lebih cerah dalam perawatan penyakit otak dan pemahaman yang lebih dalam tentang kesehatan otak manusia.
Perjalanan Seorang Programmer Profesional
Authors: Santoso Nurudin
Published: February 2024

Buku ini dapat digunakan sebagai referensi untuk mempelajari proses pengembangan perangkat lunak secara praktis baik di lingkungan akademik maupun siapa saja yang ingin mempelajarinya secara otodidak. Penerapan fundamental secara praktis mengacu pada teknologi terkini, baik metode, bahasa program, maupun framework yang diterapkan. Bab 1 menceritakan tentang kompetensi yang dilalui oleh programmer. Persiapan mental yang diperlukan dalam mempelajari dan menekuni dunia program software. Pertanyaan pertanyaan umum yang sering dicari pada mesin pencarian oleh pemula dalam mempelajari kode-kode program. Suatu perjalanan panjang yang dialami oleh programmer profesional hingga menemukan gairah dunia program dan menjadi siap menerima tantangan kerja. Bab 2, 3, 4, dan 5 menguraikan tentang apa itu software, bagaimana karakteristiknya, proses pengembangannya dalam suatu proyek, penggunaan SDLC dan PMLC sebagai strategi yang menjamin kualitas proyek, dan metode atau kerangka kerja modern seperti DevOps, CI/CD, Scrum yang saat ini populer diterapkan pada proyek software. Bab 6, 7, dan 8 menguraikan desain arsitektur sistem software. Mulai dari konsep arsitektur sistem monolitik, micro service yang saat ini sangat popular, hingga tantangan konversi dari monolitik ke microservice. Fokus pada visualisasi arsitektur software secara khusus diperkenalkan melalui Model C4 yang menguraikan arsitektur software dari level abstrak sampai ke level teknis kode. Bab 9 memperkenalkan sekaligus menguraikan metode GFT (Grammatical Fast Track) sebagai suatu metodologi praktis bagi programmer. Kerangka kerja SDLC dan PMLC yang diterapkan secara praktis dengan konsep extreme programming sebagai referensi GFT Framework untuk menerapkan konsep analisis user stories dunia nyata menjadi dunia software secara langsung.
Relasi Penyakit Sistemik dengan Jaringan Periodontal serta Penatalaksanaannya
Authors: Kumala Ega Lucida Chandra , Fauzia Malianawati , Diah Diah , Listari Khusnul Munika , Rachmawati Ranny , Andrianus Edmond P , Rudhanton Rudhanton , Devitaningtyas Nungky
Published: February 2024

Penyakit Periodontal adalah penyakit yang banyak terjadi di masyarakat dan menduduki peringkat ke-2 penyakit gigi dan mulut. Penyakit periodontal memiliki hubungan yang erat dengan penyakit sistemik seperti jantung, hipertensi, ginjal, dsb. Penelitian yang dilakukan dewasa ini dapat membuktikan bahwa tidak hanya penyakit sistemik yang dapat memiliki manifestasi pada jaringan periodontal, tetapi penyakit periodontal juga memberikan kontribusi dalam mencetuskan maupun memperparah penyakit sistemik. Dokter gigi dalam pekerjaan sehari-sehari tentu tidak terlepas dari kasus-kasus yang melibatkan penyakit sistemik dan jaringan periodontal, oleh karena itu buku ini juga dapat digunakan sebagai referensi dalam mempertimbangkan penyusunan rencana perawatan pada pasien.
Ekologi dan Sosioantropologi Gizi
Authors: Muslihah Nurul , Habibie Intan Yusuf , Wilujeng Catur Saptaning , Ventiyaningsih Agustiana Dwi Indiah
Published: February 2024

Permasalahan Gizi Ganda baik masalah gizi kurang maupun masalah gizi lebih dapat dilihat dari faktor genetik dan faktor lingkungan baik dari asupan makan, hygiene dan sanitasi, serta penyakit. Asupan makan dapat dilihat dari perilaku makan yang dapat dikaji dari faktor ekologi, sosiologi, psikologi, and antropologi gizi dalam upaya memberikan intervensi gizi yang tepat sesuai permasalahannya. Penulisan buku Ekologi dan Sosioantropologi Gizi ini dapat menjadi acuan baik bagi mahasiswa, akademisi, maupun praktisi gizi dalam memahami masalah gizi dari aspek ekologi, sosiologi, dan antropologi gizi sehingga penyelesaian intervensi lebih tepat terkait perilaku gizi dan faktor lingkungan. Buku ini terdiri dari 7 bab, yaitu bab 1 menjelaskan konsep ekologi pangan dan gizidan sistem pangan dan gizi. Bab 2 terkait hubungan sosiologi dan antropologi pangan dan gizi. Bab gizi menjelaskan definisi, jenis perilaku makan dan komponen yang mempengaruhi perilaku makan dan pilihan makan. Bab 4 memaparkan faktor yang menyebabkan kemiskinanan, konsep dan indikator kemiskinan dan hubungan kemiskinan dengan pangan dan Gizi. Bab 5 menguraikan kebijakan pangan dan gizi dan penyusunan kebijakan dan kemitraan gizi. Bab 6 menjelaskan ketahanan pangan gizi baik definisi, dimensi dan cara pengukuran ketahanan pangan dan gizi. Bab 7 menjelaskan konsep ekonomi gizi, teori dan konsep perilaku konsumen, dan cara menganalis biaya manfaat dan biaya efektivitas pada program kesehatan.
As mulheres rurais no contexto da luta pela terra e habitação
Authors: Hora Karla Emmanuela Ribeiro
Published: February 2024

The participation of women in social struggles ensured the implementation of public policies and implemented basic social and economic rights. Recently, the struggle of rural women has expanded its agenda, in defense of territories and common goods. This notion encompasses a new vision on rural housing, which dialogues with sanitation and agroecology actions. Considering this context, this article addresses the achievements of women in the struggle for land in Brazil and explains the challenges for the construction of rural housing in Goiás, together with the role of women. Even in a period of political and economic obscurantism, in terms of public policies and social inclusion, the struggle of rural women remains active.
Intervenciones en el hábitat campesino: una lectura crítica desde la perspectiva de tecnología social decolonial
Authors: Cejas Noelia , Coenda Virgínia Martinez
Published: February 2024

This article aims to contribute to constructing a theoretical-conceptual framework facing a critical understanding of the peasant habitat. Methodologically, we first retrieved some theoretical developments in the field of decolonial studies and, after that, we conceptualize a social technology that takes the fundamental elements of this theoretical perspective. This conceptualization aims to produce an analytical device that allows a critical reading of State interventions in the field of rural-peasant habitat. Its main virtue is to provoke the denaturalization of three associations:  between "poverty" and "eradication", between "rurality" and "backwardness" and between "technology" and "neutrality". Thenceforth, we propose to contribute to the gestation of expressly political technologies that, instead of eradicating, seek to rescue peasant knowledge and, instead of modernizing, seek to strengthen their ways of living.
MEVIR y la viviendade la población enextrema pobrezaen el área rural: el programa “EmergenciaHabitacional Rural”
Authors: Balarini Gonzalo Tejera
Published: February 2024

In this article we report, based on our participation in the previous management of the institute, an experience developed by MEVIR-Dr. Alberto Gallinal Heber for the access to housing of the population living in extreme poverty in rural areas of Uruguay. After a brief summary of the " Integrated Plans for Local Projects" (PIPL), an intervention modality initiated in 2015, the methodology that MEVIR designed for the "Rural Irregular Settlements" Program is presented. We indicate the definitions assumed and show three cases, each one in a different state of progress within the process until our withdrawal in May 2020, where a response with high inter-institutionalism was tested. The interventions were completed in August 2021 by the current MEVIR administration.
"Faroeste paulista”: a questão agrária e a produção do habitat rural no Oeste do estado de São Paulo
Authors: Ino Akemi , Castañeda Angel Stive Rodríguez , Perrin Anaïs Guéguen , Col Mathilde Teixeira , Sertori Rodolfo José Viana , Lopes João Marcos de Almeida , Lenzi Cecilia Corrêa , Seleguim Fernanda
Published: February 2024

Este artigo apresenta os resultados de uma pesquisa, cujo objetivo inicial foi analisar a produção do Programa Nacional de Habitação Rural (PNHR) em três assentamentos rurais paulistas. Seu desenrolar, contudo, direcionou o tratamento teórico do problema habitacional para uma concepção ampliada do habitat camponês. Partindo da hipótese de que a questão da habitação rural está vinculada à questão agrária, os conflitos entranhados na produção desses assentamentos permitiram a elaboração de três diagnósticos, os quais, além de confirmarem a pertinência da temática para o nosso campo científico, também orientaram o trabalho analítico. As conclusões indicam que as condições de violência, reproduzidas pelo enfrentamento entre o agronegócio e os camponeses, reeditam e repõem aspectos que nos sugerem identificarmos, ali, um verdadeiro faroeste paulista.
El “pensar haciendo”: experiencias contemporáneas de obras realizadas por la Escuela de Valparaíso, Chile
Authors: Alzamora Andrés Garcés , Latoja Paula Olmedo
Published: February 2024

La Escuela de Arquitectura y Diseño de la PUCV en Chile, fundada hace 70 años, postuló desde sus orígenes que la arquitectura debía estudiarse en las calles. Desde entonces, profesores y estudiantes han reunido su pensamiento académico y ejercicio profesional desde una perspectiva del “pensar haciendo”, diseñando y construyendo una arquitectura propia de cada lugar y sus gentes, observando el modo de habitar en América. Todo este legado ha sido posible gracias a la creación en 1952 del Instituto de Arquitectura; en 1971 de la Ciudad Abierta de Amereida; las Travesías en 1984; y desde al año 2006, con la creación del Departamento de Proyectos y Asistencia Técnica, donde se desarrollan proyectos públicos que generan retroalimentación, que han fortalecido la formación profesional de los estudiantes.
As relações textuais como recursos para a episteme-em-ação: estudo da dimensão epistêmica de uma entrevista com presidenciável
Authors: Cunha Gustavo Ximenes
Published: February 2024

Neste trabalho, trazemos evidências de que as relações textuais (argumento, contra-argumento, preparação, reformulação, etc.) exercem papel importante na dimensão epistêmica da interação. Para isso, aproximamos as contribuições teórico-metodológicas de duas abordagens interacionistas: os estudos sobre a dimensão epistêmica desenvolvidos no quadro da Análise da Conversa, e os estudos sobre as relações textuais e seus marcadores desenvolvidos no âmbito da Pragmática do discurso. O corpus estudado foi a entrevista concedida em 2022 pelo então candidato à presidência da república, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, ao jornal Nacional, da Rede Globo, no contexto da campanha eleitoral. Dada a abrangência do tema, focalizamos o papel das relações textuais de preparação e contra-argumento presentes nos turnos em que os entrevistadores fazem perguntas. Nesses turnos, essas relações textuais são recursos com que os entrevistadores hierarquizam informações, bem como as posturas epistêmicas (K+, K-) materializadas no modo como essas informações são expressas. Em razão desses procedimentos, a estruturação do turno de pergunta pode impactar o desenvolvimento da sequência pelo entrevistado, que pode aceitar ou contestar a hierarquia proposta, bem como a assunção, pelo entrevistador, de posturas epistêmicas.
Use of Genomics to Develop Novel Therapeutics and Personalize Hypertension Therapy
Authors: Magavern Emma F. , Kapil Vikas , Saxena Manish , Gupta Ajay , Caulfield Mark J.
Published: February 2024

Hypertension is a prevalent public health problem, contributing to >10 million deaths annually. Though multiple therapeutics exist, many patients suffer from treatment-resistant hypertension or try several medications before achieving blood pressure control. Genomic advances offer mechanistic understanding of blood pressure variability, therapeutic targets, therapeutic response, and promise a stratified approach to treatment of primary hypertension. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate augmentation, aldosterone synthase inhibitors, and angiotensinogen blockade with silencing RNA and antisense therapies are among the promising novel approaches. Pharmacogenomic studies have also been done to explore the genetic bases underpinning interindividual variability in response to existing therapeutics. A polygenic approach using risk scores is likely to be the next frontier in stratifying responses to existing therapeutics.
Reduced Monocyte and Neutrophil Infiltration and Activation by P-Selectin/CD62P Inhibition Enhances Thrombus Resolution in Mice
Authors: Kral-Pointner Julia B. , Haider Patrick , Szabo Petra L. , Salzmann Manuel , Brekalo Mira , Schneider Karl H. , Schrottmaier Waltraud C. , Kaun Christoph , Bleichert Sonja , Kiss Attila , Sickha Romana , Hengstenberg Christian , Huber Kurt , Brostjan Christine , Bergmeister Helga , Assinger Alice , Podesser Bruno K. , Wojta Johann , Hohensinner Philipp
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND:

Venous thromboembolism is a major health problem. After thrombus formation, its resolution is essential to re-establish blood flow, which is crucially mediated by infiltrating neutrophils and monocytes in concert with activated platelets and endothelial cells. Thus, we aimed to modulate leukocyte function during thrombus resolution post-thrombus formation by blocking P-selectin/CD62P-mediated cell interactions.

METHODS:

Thrombosis was induced by inferior vena cava stenosis through ligation in mice. After 1 day, a P-selectin-blocking antibody or isotype control was administered and thrombus composition and resolution were analyzed.

RESULTS:

Localizing neutrophils and macrophages in thrombotic lesions of wild-type mice revealed that these cells enter the thrombus and vessel wall from the caudal end. Neutrophils were predominantly present 1 day and monocytes/macrophages 3 days after vessel ligation. Blocking P-selectin reduced circulating platelet-neutrophil and platelet-Ly6C
high
monocyte aggregates near the thrombus, and diminished neutrophils and Ly6C
high
macrophages in the cranial thrombus part compared with isotype-treated controls. Depletion of neutrophils 1 day after thrombus initiation did not phenocopy P-selectin inhibition but led to larger thrombi compared with untreated controls. In vitro, P-selectin enhanced human leukocyte function as P-selectin-coated beads increased reactive oxygen species production by neutrophils and tissue factor expression of classical monocytes. Accordingly, P-selectin inhibition reduced oxidative burst in the thrombus and tissue factor expression in the adjacent vessel wall. Moreover, blocking P-selectin reduced thrombus density determined by scanning electron microscopy and increased urokinase-type plasminogen activator levels in the thrombus, which accelerated caudal fibrin degradation from day 3 to day 14. This accelerated thrombus resolution as thrombus volume declined more rapidly after blocking P-selectin.

CONCLUSIONS:

Inhibition of P-selectin-dependent activation of monocytes and neutrophils accelerates venous thrombosis resolution due to reduced infiltration and activation of innate immune cells at the site of thrombus formation, which prevents early thrombus stabilization and facilitates fibrinolysis.
Sodium, Interstitium, Lymphatics and Hypertension—A Tale of Hydraulics
Authors: Rossitto Giacomo , Bertoldi Giovanni , Rutkowski Joseph M. , Mitchell Brett M. , Delles Christian
Published: February 2024

Blood pressure is regulated by vascular resistance and intravascular volume. However, exchanges of electrolytes and water between intra and extracellular spaces and filtration of fluid and solutes in the capillary beds blur the separation between intravascular, interstitial and intracellular compartments. Contemporary paradigms of microvascular exchange posit filtration of fluids and solutes along the whole capillary bed and a prominent role of lymphatic vessels, rather than its venous end, for their reabsorption. In the last decade, these concepts have stimulated greater interest in and better understanding of the lymphatic system as one of the master regulators of interstitial volume homeostasis. Here, we describe the anatomy and function of the lymphatic system and focus on its plasticity in relation to the accumulation of interstitial sodium in hypertension. The pathophysiological relevance of the lymphatic system is exemplified in the kidneys, which are crucially involved in the control of blood pressure, but also hypertension-mediated cardiac damage. Preclinical modulation of the lymphatic reserve for tissue drainage has demonstrated promise, but has also generated conflicting results. A better understanding of the hydraulic element of hypertension and the role of lymphatics in maintaining fluid balance can open new approaches to prevent and treat hypertension and its consequences, such as heart failure.
Hippocampal subfields and their neocortical interactions during autobiographical memory
Authors: Leelaarporn Pitshaporn , Dalton Marshall A. , Stirnberg Rüdiger , Stöcker Tony , Spottke Annika , Schneider Anja , McCormick Cornelia
Published: February 2024

Advances in ultra-high field 7 Tesla functional magnetic resonance imaging (7 T fMRI) have provided unprecedented opportunities to gain insights into the neural underpinnings supporting human memory. The hippocampus, a heterogeneous brain structure comprising several subfields, plays a central role during vivid re-experiencing of autobiographical memories (AM). However, due to technical limitations, how hippocampal subfields differentially support AM, whether this contribution is specific to one portion along the hippocampal long-axis, and how subfields are functionally connected with other brain regions typically associated with AM retrieval remains elusive. Here, we leveraged technical advances of parallel imaging and employed a submillimeter Echo Planar Imaging sequence over the whole brain while participants re-experienced vivid, detail-rich AM. We found that all hippocampal subfields along the long-axis were engaged during AM retrieval. Nonetheless, only the pre/parasubiculum within the anterior body of the hippocampus contributed over and above to AM retrieval. Moreover, whole-brain functional connectivity analyses of the same data revealed that this part of the hippocampus was the only one that was strongly connected to other brain regions typically associated with AM, such as the ventromedial prefrontal cortex (vmPFC) and medial/lateral parietal regions. In the context of the broader literature, our results support recent proposals that the anterior body of the pre/parasubiculum may play an important role in scene-based cognition, such as its engagement during the re-experiencing of personal past events.
Properhyssalus, a new fossil genus of braconid wasps close to the genus Rhyssalus Haliday (Hymenoptera: Braconidae: Rhyssalinae) from Baltic amber
Authors: BELOKOBYLSKIJ SERGEY A. , MANUKYAN ANDRANIK R.
Published: February 2024

The new braconid genus and species from the subfamily Rhyssalinae, Properhyssalus szechowskii Belokobylskij, gen. et sp. nov., from late Eocene Baltic amber are described and illustrated. The differences between the new genus and the type species of Rhyssalus Haliday, 1833, Rh. clavator Haliday, 1833, are provided. The position of the previously described from Baltic amber species Rhyssalus brevicornis Brues, 1933 and Rh. rugosus Brues, 1933, as well as Palaeorhyssalus dubitosus Brues, 1933, are discussed.
Confirmation of the recognition of Culiseta (Culiseta) indica Edwards, 1920 as a distinct species based on integrated morphological and molecular data
Authors: NATARAJAN R. , GOPALAKRISHNAN S. , TALIB H.D. , KUMAR N. PRADEEP , SHRIRAM A.N. , KUMAR ASHWANI , JAMBULINGAM P.
Published: February 2024

Theobaldia indica Edwards, 1920, classified as a subspecies of Culiseta (Culiseta) alaskaensis (Ludlow, 1906), was recently restored to its original species status, as Culiseta (Culiseta) indica (Edwards), based on comprehensive assessments of morphological, ecological and distributional data. Predating the recognition of indica as a separate species, we collected specimens of this nominal taxon in the Western Himalayan region of India during 2015–2017, and used morphological and molecular studies to assess its taxonomic status. Our detailed examination of adult morphology, male genitalia and larval characteristics revealed significant distinctions between putative Cs. alaskaensis alaskaensis and Cs. alaskaensis indica, and sequencing of the barcode region of the mitochondrial COI gene yielded a Kimura 2 parameter genetic distance of 5.9% between them, well above the standard 2‒3% commonly accepted to indicate separate species. These results strongly support the formal recognition of Cs. indica as a separate species. Furthermore, the geographical distribution of Cs. indica provides additional evidence in support of its species status.
Field Evaluation of an Autonomous, Low-Power Eddy Covariance CO2 Flux System for the Marine Environment
Authors: Miller Scott D. , Emond Marc , Vandemark Doug , Shellito Shawn , Covert Jason , Bogoev Ivan , Swiatek Edward
Published: February 2024

Eddy covariance (EC) air–sea CO2 flux measurements have been developed for large research vessels, but have yet to be demonstrated for smaller platforms. Our goal was to design and build a complete EC CO2 flux package suitable for unattended operation on a buoy. Published state-of-the-art techniques that have proven effective on research vessels, such as airstream drying and liquid water rejection, were adapted for a 2-m discus buoy with limited power. Fast-response atmospheric CO2 concentration was measured using both an off-the-shelf (“stock”) gas analyzer (EC155, Campbell Scientific, Inc.) and a prototype gas analyzer (“proto”) with reduced motion-induced error that was designed and built in collaboration with an instrument manufacturer. The system was tested on the University of New Hampshire (UNH) air–sea interaction buoy for 18 days in the Gulf of Maine in October 2020. The data demonstrate the overall robustness of the system. Empirical postprocessing techniques previously used on ship-based measurements to address motion sensitivity of CO2 analyzers were generally not effective for the stock sensor. The proto analyzer markedly outperformed the stock unit and did not require ad hoc motion corrections, yet revealed some remaining artifacts to be addressed in future designs. Additional system refinements to further reduce power demands and increase unattended deployment duration are described.
The Constructions of Ndebele Identity in Skyz Metro FM: An Audience Reception Study
Authors: Sibanda Makhosi Nkanyiso
Published: February 2024

Discourses on the negotiation and construction of ethnic identities in Zimbabwe have preoccupied scholars across disciplines, ranging from history, sociology, anthropology, and most recently media and communication studies. This study proceeds against the background that in Zimbabwe, literature on the relationship between identity formation and the media is little and far between, while available studies are limited to textual and discourse analysis. This inquiry takes a reception study approach to find out how audiences physically interact with radio content and negotiate different identity categories through qualitative in-depth interviews. This study extends this scope to the examination of how the advent of Skyz Metro FM has aided representation to extend discursive construction of identities. The study shows how a sense of belonging to Ndebele identity has been shaped by various changing power dynamics of internal and external factors in ways that allows one to understand how the production of national identity impact on the expression of belonging to Ndebele ethnic identity. The analysis is framed on the premise that like most collective identities, Ndebele identity has been flexible, fluid, negotiable, complex, shifting and contested but it centrally argues that Ndebele identity gels around key markers such as language. The relationship between broadcasting and ethnic nationalism found clear expression in Skyz Metro’s deliberate adoption of the slogan Esabantu (for the people) and maintains the station’s signature which is deployed throughout its programming.
Self-reported aggression is related to oxidative stress in men and women
Authors: Kowal Marta , Żelaźniewicz Agnieszka , Nowak-Kornicka Judyta , Groyecka-Bernard Agata , Pawłowski Bogusław , Sorokowski Piotr
Published: February 2024

Aggression is an important element of social behavior. Increased aggression has been observed in many mental disorders, posing a serious public health concern. However, the proximal biological mechanisms underlying an individual’s proneness to aggressive behavior remain poorly understood. Studies in both non-human animals and humans with aggressive disorders have shown that aggression is positively related to oxidative stress levels. Whether this relationship exists in healthy individuals has not yet been verified. We investigated the relationship between the serum level of 8-hydroxy-20-deoxyguanosine (8-OH-dG), a marker of oxidative damage to deoxyribonucleic acid, and self-reported aggression in 213 healthy men and women ( Mage = 27.41, SD = 2.70). We controlled for serum free testosterone, cortisol, and subclinical inflammatory state (evaluated with high-sensitivity C-reactive protein level). We found that 8-OH-dG level was positively related to physical aggression. Our findings provide preliminary evidence that healthy individuals with higher levels of oxidative stress are more physically aggressive. We hypothesize that evaluating markers of oxidative stress levels may be useful for screening healthy populations to identify individuals who may be particularly susceptible to the development of mental issues related to aggression.
Synthesis and characterization of magnesium-titanium carbide nanocomposites via friction stir processing: An in-depth parameter investigation
Authors: Sagar Prem
Published: February 2024

Magnesium Metal Matrix Composites (MMMCs) possess remarkable mechanical and metallurgical properties that have garnered the interest of researchers worldwide. The current research endeavors to synthesize nanocomposites based on magnesium (Mg), specifically AZ31B, by employing Friction Stir Processing (FSP) and integrating nano-titanium carbide (TiC) as a reinforcing element. Additionally, the impact of various FSP parameters, encompassing transverse speeds (35 and 70 mm/min) and tool rotation speeds (850 and 1700 rpm), on the metallurgical, wear, and mechanical properties of the developed MMMCs was investigated. The microstructural analysis revealed that employing the FSP technique led to a uniform dispersion of nano-TiC reinforcement particles within the base matrix of the AZ31B Mg alloy. This concurrent distribution played a crucial role in both refining and evolving the grain sizes, subsequently leading to improvements in the composites’s mechanical and wear characteristics. To be more specific, the grain size witnessed a reduction by nearly 18 times, the microhardness increased by approximately 2.54 times, and the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) showed a 2.08-fold increase when compared to the base alloy. Furthermore, in contrast to the base material characterized by an adhesive wear mechanism, the presence of scratches indicates that the abrasive wear mechanism predominated in the case of the AZ31B/TiC nanocomposite. The outcome of the results depicts that the nanocomposite fabricated at a tool rotation speed of 1700 rpm and 70 mm/min transverse shows better mechanical and tribological characteristics than other developed composites and the base alloy.
Hu-Qi-Zheng-Xiao Decoction Inhibits the Metastasis of Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells by Suppressing the HIF-1α Signaling Pathway to Inhibit EMT, LCSC, and Angiogenic Process
Authors: Wang Xuejing , Yin Ling , Chai Mengyin , Kou Buxin , Liu Xiaoni , Wang Xiaojun
Published: February 2024

Background:

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common clinical malignant tumor of the digestive system. Hu-Qi-Zheng-Xiao (HQZX) decoction has been clinically found to prolong the survival of patients with hepatocellular carcinoma and improve the quality of patients’ survival, but its antitumor biological mechanism is still unclear.

Methods:

A nude mouse hollow fiber hepatocellular carcinoma model was constructed to analyze the in vivo efficacy of HQZX decoction against 7 different hepatocellular carcinoma cells. The subcutaneous graft tumor model was again validated. In vitro, the effect of HQZX decoction on the growth and metastasis of the cell line with the highest growth inhibition was evaluated. The cell line with the best efficacy response screened was again used to construct a hollow fiber hepatocellular carcinoma model and hollow fiber conduit cells were extracted to detect the expression of HIF-1α, VEGF, EMT-related molecules, LCSCs-related molecules, and to observe the density of the subcutaneous vascular network of hollow fiber conduits. The liver metastasis model of splenic injection was constructed to observe the effect of HQZX decoction on tumor metastasis.

Results:

The hollow fiber hepatocellular carcinoma model was evaluated for the efficacy of HQZX decoction, and it was found to have the highest growth inhibition of LM3-luc cells. In vitro, the CCK8 assay revealed that HQZX decoction could inhibit tumor migration and invasion and promote apoptosis. In addition, the mechanism study of extracting cells from hollow fiber tubes found that HQZX decoction could inhibit metastasis-associated HIF-1α, VEGF, EMT-related molecules, and LCSCs-related molecules expression. capillary network around subcutaneous fiber tubes was reduced in the HQZX decoction gavage group of mice. It inhibited tumor metastasis in nude mice.

Conclusions:

HQZX decoction inhibited the growth of a variety of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. HQZX decoction suppressed the expression of metastasis-associated VEGF, EMT-related molecules, and LCSCs-related molecules and inhibited tumor angiogenesis and growth and metastasis, which may be related to the inhibition of the HIF-1α signaling pathway. It reveals that HQZX decoction may be a promising herbal compound for anti-HCC therapy, and also reveals the accurate feasibility of the hollow fiber hepatocellular carcinoma model for in vivo pharmacodynamic evaluation and mechanism study.
Ambivalence and perceptions of China: Two list experiments
Authors: Wu Chung-li , Lin Alex Min-Wei
Published: February 2024

Do citizens reveal their valid preferences when asked about a potential foreign threat? This study presents the results of two list experiments implemented in Taiwan, a democratic and independently ruled island that leaders in China have long vowed to reunify with the mainland. Our two experiments—conducted in March 2019 and September 2021—focus on the percentage of Taiwanese who perceive China as a “friend” and those who regard China as an “enemy.” The findings reveal that, first, the proportion of Taiwanese citizens who harbored hostile feelings toward China grew by 30% points between the two dates. In comparison, those with a more friendly perception of China declined by 18% points. Second, we detected significant misreporting or preference falsification when comparing the list experiment estimates with answers to a direct question. Third, we found evidence that the hypothesized China-ambivalent respondents are most likely to have switched their perceptions of China.
Lessons learned: establishing a CLIA-equivalent laboratory for targeted mass spectrometry assays – navigating the transition from research to clinical practice
Authors: Han Chia-Li , Lai Chi-Ting , Reyes Aaron James , Yang Hao-Chin , Lu Jin-Ying , Shih Shyang-Rong , Chen Kuen-Yuan , Hoofnagle Andrew N. , Yu Sung-Liang , Bocik William , Hiltke Tara , Chiu Huan-Chi , Wan Ching-Yi , Rodriguez Henry , Zhang Victoria , Chen Yu-Ju
Published: February 2024

Mass spectrometry (MS) assays offer exceptional capabilities in high multiplexity, specificity, and throughput. As proteomics technologies continue advancements to identify new disease biomarkers, transition of these innovations from research settings to clinical applications becomes imperative. To meet the rigorous regulatory standards of clinical laboratories, development of a clinical protein MS assay necessitates adherence to stringent criteria. To illustrate the process, this project focused on using thyroglobulin (Tg) as a biomarker and an immuno-multiple reaction monitoring (iMRM) MS-based assay as a model for establishing a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) compliant laboratory within the Centers of Genomic and Precision Medicine, National Taiwan University. The chosen example also illustrates the clinical utility of MS assays to complement conventional immunoassay-based methods, particularly in cases where the presence of autoantibodies in 10–30% of patients hinders accuracy. The laboratory design entails a comprehensive coordination in spatial layout, workflow organization, equipment selection, ventilation systems, plumbing, electrical infrastructure, documentation procedures, and communication protocols. Practical aspects of the transformation process, including preparing laboratory facilities, testing environments, instrument validation, assay development and validation, quality management, sample testing, and personnel competency, are discussed. Finally, concordant results in proficiency testing demonstrate the harmonization with the University of Washington Medical Center and the quality assurance of the CLIA-equivalent Tg-iMRM MS assay established in Taiwan. The realization of this model protein MS assay in Taiwan highlights the feasibility of international joint development and provides a detailed reference map to expedite the implementation of more MS-based protein assays in clinical laboratories for patient care.
Global prevalence and burden of multidrug-resistant tuberculosis from 1990 to 2019
Authors: Lv Hengliang , Zhang Xin , Zhang Xueli , Bai Junzhu , You Shumeng , Li Xuan , Li Shenlong , Wang Yong , Zhang Wenyi , Xu Yuanyong
Published: February 2024

Background

Tuberculosis(TB) remains a pressing public health challenge, with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) emerging as a major threat. And healthcare authorities require reliable epidemiological evidence as a crucial reference to address this issue effectively. The aim was to offer a comprehensive epidemiological assessment of the global prevalence and burden of MDR-TB from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Estimates and 95% uncertainty intervals (UIs) for the age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized disability-adjusted life years rate (ASR of DALYs), and age-standardized death rate (ASDR) of MDR-TB were obtained from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2019 database. The prevalence and burden of MDR-TB in 2019 were illustrated in the population and regional distribution. Temporal trends were analyzed by using Joinpoint regression analysis to calculate the annual percentage change (APC), average annual percentage change (AAPC) and its 95% confidence interval(CI).

Results

The estimates of the number of cases were 687,839(95% UIs: 365,512 to 1223,262), the ASPR were 8.26 per 100,000 (95%UIs: 4.61 to 15.20), the ASR of DALYs were 52.38 per 100,000 (95%UIs: 22.64 to 97.60) and the ASDR were 1.36 per 100,000 (95%UIs: 0.54 to 2.59) of MDR-TB at global in 2019. Substantial burden was observed in Africa and Southeast Asia. Males exhibited higher ASPR, ASR of DALYs, and ASDR than females across most age groups, with the burden of MDR-TB increasing with age. Additionally, significant increases were observed globally in the ASIR (AAPC = 5.8; 95%CI: 5.4 to 6.1; P < 0.001), ASPR (AAPC = 5.9; 95%CI: 5.4 to 6.4; P < 0.001), ASR of DALYs (AAPC = 4.6; 95%CI: 4.2 to 5.0; P < 0.001) and ASDR (AAPC = 4.4; 95%CI: 4.0 to 4.8; P < 0.001) of MDR-TB from 1990 to 2019.

Conclusions

This study underscored the persistent threat of drug-resistant tuberculosis to public health. It is imperative that countries and organizations worldwide take immediate and concerted action to implement measures aimed at significantly reducing the burden of TB.
Trends of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Rifampicin resistance in Northwest Ethiopia: Xpert® MTB/RIF assay results from 2015 to 2021
Authors: Biset Sirak , Teferi Milto , Alamirew Haylemesikel , Birhanu Biniyam , Dessie Awoke , Aschale Abebe , Haymanot Anmaw , Dejenie Selamu , Gebremedhin Teshager , Abebe Wondwossen , Adane Gashaw
Published: February 2024

Background

Tuberculosis (TB) remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in countries with limited resources. The emergence of drug resistance in mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), particularly rifampicin (RIF) resistance, hindered TB control efforts. Continuous surveillance and regular monitoring of drug-resistant TB, including rifampicin resistance (RR), are required for effective TB intervention strategies and prevention and control measures.

Objective

Determine the trend of TB and RR-TB among presumptive TB patients in Northwest Ethiopia.

Method

A retrospective study was conducted at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UoG-CSH). The study included TB registration logbook data from all patients who visited the hospital and were tested for MTB using the Xpert® MTB/RIF assay between 2015 and 2021. The SPSS version 26 software was used to enter, clean, and analyze the laboratory-based data.

Results

A total of 18,787 patient results were included, with 93.8% (17,615/18787) of them being successful, meaning they were not invalid, error, or aborted. About 10.5% (1846/17615) of the 17,615 results were MTB-positive, with 7.42% (137/1846) RIF resistant. Age, anti-TB treatment history, and diagnosis year were associated with the presence of MTB and RR-MTB. Tuberculosis (TB) prevalence was higher in productive age groups, whereas RR-TB prevalence was higher in the elderly. Regarding diagnosis year, the prevalence of TB and RR-TB showed a declining trend as the year progressed. While MTB was detected in 12.8% (471/3669) of new and 22.2% (151/679) of re-treatment presumptive TB patients, RR-MTB was detected in 8.5% (40/471) of new and 18.5% (28/151) of re-treatment TB cases.

Conclusion

The prevalence of TB and RR-TB in the study area showed a declining trend over the years. While TB was more prevalent in productive age groups (15 to 45 years), RR-TB was more prevalent in older populations (over 45 years), than others. Moreover, patients with a history of anti-TB drug exposure were more likely to be positive for DR-TB, highlighting the need to strengthen DOT programs for proper management of TB treatment.
Age-disparate and intergenerational sex partnerships and HIV: the role of gender norms among adolescent girls and young women in Malawi
Authors: Reed Domonique M. , Radin Elizabeth , Kim Evelyn , Wadonda-Kabondo Nellie , Payne Danielle , Gillot Myrline , Jahn Andreas , Bello George , Kalua Thokozani , Justman Jessica E.
Published: February 2024

Background

Age-mixing (age-disparate [5–9 years difference] and intergenerational [≥ 10 years difference]) partnerships are hypothesized drivers of HIV in adolescent girls and young women (AGYW; 15–24 years). These partnerships are often associated with increased gender inequities which undermine women’s agency and assertiveness. We assessed whether age-mixing partnerships were associated with HIV in Malawi and if endorsement of inequitable gender norms modifies this relationship.

Methods

We analyzed data from the Malawi Population-based HIV Impact Assessment, a nationally representative household survey conducted in 2015–2016. Participants underwent HIV testing and completed questionnaires related to actively endorsed gender norms and sexual risk behavior. We used multivariate logistic regression and multiplicative interaction to assess associations among AGYW who reported the age of their primary sex partner from the last year.

Results

The analysis included 1,958 AGYW (mean age = 19.9 years, SD = 0.1), 459 (23.4%) and 131 (6.7%) of whom reported age-disparate and intergenerational partnerships, respectively. AGYW in age-mixing partnerships accounted for 13% of all AGYW and were older, more likely to reside in urban areas, to be married or cohabitating with a partner, and to have engaged in riskier sexual behavior compared with AGYW in age-concordant partnerships (p < 0.05). HIV prevalence among AGYW in age-disparate and intergenerational partnerships was 6.1% and 11.9%, respectively, compared with 3.2% in age-concordant partnerships (p < 0.001). After adjusting for residence, age, education, employment, wealth quintile, and ever been married or cohabitated as married, AGYW in age-disparate and intergenerational partnerships had 1.9 (95% CI: 1.1–3.5) and 3.4 (95% CI: 1.6–7.2) greater odds of HIV, respectively, compared with AGYW in age-concordant partnerships. Among the 614 (31% of the study group) who endorsed inequitable gender norms, AGYW in age-disparate and intergenerational partnerships had 3.5 (95% CI: 1.1–11.8) and 6.4 (95% CI: 1.5–27.8) greater odds of HIV, respectively, compared with AGYW in age-concordant partnerships.

Conclusions

In this Malawi general population survey, age-mixing partnerships were associated with increased odds of HIV among AGYW. These findings highlight inequitable gender norms as a potential focus for HIV prevention and could inform interventions targeting structural, cultural, and social constraints of this key group.
Immune Dysregulation in SARS-CoV-2 patients coinfected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) or HIV in China
Authors: Li Lei , Zhang Jianxiang , Sun Ranran , Liu Hong , Cheng Genyang , Fan Feifei , Wang Chong , Li Ang , Liang Hongxia , Yu Zujiang , Wang Guiqiang , Ren Zhigang
Published: February 2024

Background

SARS-CoV-2 infections usually cause immune dysregulation in the human body. Studies of immunological changes resulting from coinfections with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) or HIV are limited.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective study focusing on patients with COVID-19. A total of 550 patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 were enrolled in our study and categorized into four groups based on the presence of coinfections; 166 Delta-infected patients, among whom 103 patients had no coinfections, 52 who were coinfected with Mtb, 11 who were coinfected with HIV, and 384 Omicron-infected patients. By collecting data on epidemiologic information, laboratory findings, treatments, and clinical outcomes, we analyzed and compared clinical and immunological characteristics.

Results

Compared with those in the Delta group, the median white blood cell, CD4 + T-cell and B-cell counts were lower in the Mtb group and the HIV group. Except for those in the Omicron group, more than half of the patients in the three groups had abnormal chest CT findings. Among the three groups, there were no significant differences in any of the cytokines. Compared with those in the Delta group, the disease duration and LOS were longer in the Mtb group and the HIV group. For unvaccinated Delta-infected patients, in the Mtb and HIV groups, the number of B cells and CD4 + T cells was lower than that in the Delta group, with no significant difference in the LOS or disease duration. In the Mtb group, three (6%) patients presented with a disease duration greater than four months and had decreased lymphocyte and IL17A counts, possibly due to double infections in the lungs caused by SARS-CoV-2 and M. tuberculosis.

Conclusions

We found that SARS-CoV-2 patients coinfected with Mtb or HIV exhibited a longer disease duration and longer LOS, with a decrease in B cells and CD4 + T cells, suggesting that these cells are related to immune function. Changes in cytokine levels suggest that coinfection with Mtb or HIV does not result in dysregulation of the immune response. Importantly, we discovered a chronic course of coinfection involving more than four months of Mtb and SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Exploration of the factors influencing the quality of life among adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic: the data from a cross-sectional study in Shandong
Authors: Li Hongjin , Yang Zhiping , You Libin , Liu Shaojie
Published: February 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic has sparked unprecedented transformations in the lives of adolescents, with reshaping their routines, social dynamics, educational experiences, and overall well-being. Our study delves into the influence of various factors on adolescents’ quality of life (QOL) among the COVID-19 pandemic in Shandong Province, China.

Methods

Employing a cross-sectional research approach combined with multivariable analysis, we scrutinize the association of demographic factors (age, gender, education level, ethnic groups, urban area, and family economic status) and health-related behaviors (sleep duration, and self-reported health status) with QOL in 9953 students.

Results

During the pandemic, the average QOL for adolescents in Shandong Province was 133. Our analysis revealed that sleep duration and age had statistically significant associations with total QOL, with the OR values of 1.43 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.03 to 1.83) and 0.44 (95% CI: 0.19 to 0.70), respectively. Notably, we observed that adolescents from economically disadvantaged families, or those with poorer self-reported health status, were more likely to report lower QOL scores.

Conclusions

Overall, our study highlights the potential association of sleep duration, age, family economic status, and self-reported health with the QOL of adolescents in Shandong Province during the pandemic. During similar public health crises, policymakers, educators, and healthcare providers can actively work through resource allocation and effective intervention measures towards alleviating financial burdens, improving health conditions, and ultimately enhancing the total QOL for adolescents.