bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatments for Idiopathic Sudden Hearing Loss: Literature Review
Authors: Wasilewski Helena , Rímoli Caroline Fernandes , Steffen Júlia Pellenz , Bastiani Gonçalves Tamini Laisa De , Bianchin Marques Lívia Daniel , Sampaio Belotto Leonardo Felipe de
Published: January 2024

Idiopathic sudden hearing loss is characterized by an acute onset of hypoacusis, usually unilateral, occurring in less than 72 hours and with a loss equal to or greater than 30 decibels (dB) in at least three consecutive audiometric frequencies. In 71% of cases, the etiology is idiopathic. The symptoms are unpleasant and limiting, so a proper therapeutic plan is needed to minimize the impact on patients' lives. The purpose of this study is to describe treatment modalities, characterize the action mechanism, describe the efficacy and identify the risks of the therapeutic modalities. This is a study of narrative literature review; the articles were taken from Pubmed, Scielo, National Library of Medicine and Google Scholar databases. 35 articles from 1995 to 2023 were analyzed. In the studies, it was reported that treatment of idiopathic sudden hearing loss is controversial due to the different etiological and pathophysiological theories, being based on: systemic corticosteroid therapy, intratympanic corticosteroid therapy, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, antivirals and vasoactive or vasodilating substances. It is concluded that, although there is little high-quality evidence to prove the superiority of any treatment, those with the best risk-benefit ratio should be used. Systemic corticosteroid therapy may be used, associated or not with intratympanic corticosteroid therapy and hyperbaric oxygen therapy according to availability. Antivirals and vasodilators may be disregarded.
Clinical Profile and Risk Factors of Adult Patients with Deep Vein Thrombosis in a Tertiary Hospital
Authors: Encarnacion Margaret C , Visperas Julie Christie G
Published: January 2024

Background: Venous thromboembolism, including deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, is a pressing problem in developing countries like the Philippines. There is a need to investigate the clinical profile of DVT patients to recognize those requiring considerate attention to prevent complications. Objectives: To determine the Clinical Profile of Adult Patients with Deep Vein Thrombosis in University of Santo Tomas Hospital from October 2015- June 2017. Methods: Retrospective cross sectional study was done. All adult patients who underwent venous duplex ultrasonography in the University of Santo Tomas Hospital from October 2015- June 2017 were identified and their data retrieved using the Heart Station computer database. Results: Out of the 290 patients, 45 (15.5%; 95%CI: 11.5 – 20.2%) were positive for DVT. Age (p=0.694) and gender (p=0.494) did not differ among those with and without DVT. The highest incidence is among those in the age range of 61-80 years old. The trend increased according to age up to 80 years old, beyond which there is a noted decline. The following were identified as significant risk factors in DVT: history of DVT (p<0.001), malignancy (p<0.001), recent surgery (p 0.02), oral contraceptive use (p 0.018) and bedridden state (p<0.001). Edema was the most common presentation. Conclusion: Among those who underwent venous duplex ultrasound of the lower extremities, 15% of the population had findings consistent with DVT, the mean age is 62.6 years old. In this study, we concluded that the most significant risk factors include malignancy, bedridden state, OCP use and recent surgery.
Validating Clinical Exome Sequencing (CES) Test for Copy Number Variation (CNV) Analysis in Patients with Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Margiotti Katia , Fabiani Marco , Mesoraca Alvaro , Giorlandino Claudio
Published: January 2024

A routine methodologies to detect germline copy number variants (CNVs) are ArrayCGH, and SNParray, while clinical exome sequencing (CES) it is not a standard methods used in clinical settings. This study aims to investigate the efficiency of CNVs identification by CES in the diagnosis of Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) based on a Italian cohort. In this cohort study, 50 patients with ASD diagnosis were recruited for ASD screening. Simultaneous CNVs and single nucleotide variation (SNV) analysis was conducted to identify the anomalies that can cause ASD phenotype. A total of 13 patients were identified with a causative CNVs among 15 (86.67%) SNP array positive patients. Showing that CES data can be used for detecting clinically relevant CNVs with high sensitivity for use in clinical diagnostic settings.
PROBLEMATIKA KETERAMPILAN MENYIMAK DALAM KEGIATAN MENGAJAR JENJANG SMP PELAJARAN BAHASA INDONESIA
Authors: Mustikawati Widhi , Ani Rakhmawati
Published: January 2024

ABSTRAKWe surely engage in the activity of listening both formally and informally every day; in fact, listening is a necessary component of all activities. Since listening genuinely results in both fresh and recollections from the past or new information that is received, Since engaging in listening activities can arouse one's intelligence, we can feel more deeply because our brains are driven to seek out a lot of information. Because someone has effectively adopted listening activities, curiosity has a significant impact on the brain. We feel compelled to gather a lot of data. Curiosity has a significant impact on the brain since listening actions have been successfully accepted by someone. However, not everyone believes that all listening activities are enjoyable, particularly when learning begins for junior high school students. Most people may think that hearing makes them feel tired or even overstimulated. The media is also diverse depending on how each student chooses to listen to their lesson. Some people use visual media, write, and read aloud to others. There is nothing wrong with listening exercises conducted by teachers past and present, of course, as long as they are done with the knowledge that listening must be processed in order to keep up with the times. However, as candidates or teachers, we may already be familiar with the new approach so that students can listen intently without missing anything.

Keyword: problematika menyimak, mengajar, belajar

ABSTRAKMenyimak merupakan suatu kegiatan yang tentunya kita lakukan sehari-hari secara formal maupun non-formal, kegiatan apapun dalam kehidupan kita pasti melibatkan kegitan menyimak tersebut. Karena sesungguhnya menyimak adalah kegiatan yang membuahkan sebuah ingatan baru maupun lama atapun pengengetahuan baru yang masuk, karena kegiatan menyimak tersebut bisa memancing intelegent seseorang supaya kita merasa trerpancing lebih dalam karena otak kita merasa perlu mendapatkan informasi dengan jumblah yang banyak. Rasa penasaran merupakan suatu efek yang besar bagi otak, karena kegiatan menyimak tersebut sudah berhasil diterima oleh seseorang. Namun tidak semua orang merasa semua kegiatan menyimak itu merupa hal yang menyenangkan, apalagi menyimak dalam pembelajaran dimulai bagi anak SMP sebagian besar mungkin saja menganggap menyimak merupakan hal yang membuat mengantuk bahkan juga jenuh. Apalagi didasari oleh jenis cara menyimak pelajaran setiap murid itu berbeda-beda medianya. Ada yang menggunakan media gambar, tulis, membaca sendiri, dan lainya. Tentu saaat mengetahui hal tersebut menyimak harus bisa diolah sedemikian ruma mengikuti perkembangan jaman, tidak ada yang salah dengan kegiatan menyimakn yang dilakukan guru-guru dulu maupunsekarang, tetapi kita sebagai calon/guru mungkin sudah paham dengan metode metode baru agar murid bisa menyimak dengan seksama tanpa ketinggalan.
PENINGKATAN PENGUASAAN ISTILAH JURNALISTIK MELALUI MODEL DISKUSI DENGAN INFOGRAFIK DINAMIS (DIDIN MANIS)
Authors: Muttaqin Khoirul , Ari Ambarwati
Published: January 2024

Journalistic theory is one of the courses given to students of the Language and Literature Education Study Program, semester III at the Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) Islamic University of Malang. The research focuses on increasing group proficiency in compiling infographics of journalistic terms through the Didi Manis learning model. This research design uses one-cycle Classroom Action Research (PTK). The results of this study prove that students get a more complex learning experience because they are in two different groups. The results of the infographic made by the group also showed good results with an average value above 80.
PENGGUNAAN MEDIA PREZI UNTUK MENINGKATKAN KETERAMPILAN MENYIMAK SISWA DALAM MATERI TEKS BIOGRAFI KELAS VIII
Authors: Nurizalianto Ramadhan  , Bagus Wijaya
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of Prezi media in improving students' listening skills in biographical text material in grade VIII. Qualitative literature studies are conducted by analyzing previous studies conducted in similar contexts. The results of the literature study show that the use of Prezi media in biographical text material has various benefits. Prezi's engaging and interactive visuals help students understand and visualize the information in the biographical text better. Prezi's organized structure and navigation features make it easy for students to follow the narrative flow of the biography and track the character's character development. In addition, the use of Prezi can also increase student engagement, learning motivation, and presentation skills. The use of Prezi media in biographical text materials can improve students' listening skills. Deep understanding, better analytical skills, informed response skills, high engagement and motivation, and improved presentation skills are some of the outcomes produced.
From the sky and on the beaches: complementary tools to evaluate common dolphin bycatch in the Bay of Biscay
Authors: Peltier H , Laran S , Dabin W , Daniel P , Dars C , Demaret F , Doremus G , Genu M , Meheust E , Spitz J , Van Canneyt O , Ridoux V
Published: January 2024

Since 1989, multiple stranding events of common dolphins have been regularly recorded along the French Atlantic coast. Examination of the carcasses revealed that most animals presented evidence of bycatch. Using stranding data to infer bycatch levels reveals the highest levels of bycatch to have been recorded since 2016 (4000 to 9000 bycaught individuals). This approach is directly influenced by drift conditions, which can greatly contribute to or hinder our ability to estimate bycatch at sea. In the winter of 2021/2022, the French stranding network recorded an unusually high number of strandings until mid-February and few records in March. Investigation of drift conditions revealed low probability of stranding in March due to constant east-west winds. Reverse drift modelling of carcasses stranded in January and February resulted in an estimate of 3670 (95% CI [2750; 5170]) bycaught common dolphins. Dedicated aerial surveys were conducted in the same area during this period, designed to assess abundance and distribution of marine megafauna in French waters. A high number of carcasses of small Delphininae were observed in March 2021, and the number of carcasses floating at sea could be estimated using conventional distance sampling methodology. In March 2021, mortality at sea was thus estimated at 3250 (95% CI [1288;10198]) common dolphins. The complementary use of both methodologies resulted in an estimate of 6920 (95%CI [4038;15368]) bycaught individuals during winter 2021/2022. This case study highlights that a decrease in strandings does not imply a decrease in mortality at sea. Trends in strandings need to be considered in the light of scientific evidence to avoid delays in decision making.
Population genetic structure of bottlenose and whitespotted wedgefishes from the Southwest Indian Ocean using a dual marker approach
Authors: Groeneveld MJ , Klein JD , Bennett RH , Abdulla AS , Bond ME , Ebert DA , Fernando SM , Gledhill KS , Jaquemet S , Kiszka JJ , Macdonald AHH , Mann BQ , Nevill J , Price AS , Rumbelow J , Sitoe JJ , van Staden M , Wueringer BE , Wueringer BE
Published: January 2024

Wedgefishes (Rhinidae) are threatened by unsustainable fishing globally, and especially in the Southwest Indian Ocean (SWIO), due to their high-value fins in the shark trade. The whitespotted wedgefish Rhynchobatus djiddensis and the bottlenose wedgefish R. australiae are both classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, yet a lack of species-specific knowledge and taxonomic uncertainty still exists within this genus. Genetic approaches aid in taxonomic classification and identifying distinct populations for targeted conservation. Morphological specimen identification of samples (n = 189) collected across the SWIO was confirmed based on the cytochrome oxidase c subunit I (COI) and/or nicotinamide adenine dehydrogenase subunit 2 (ND2) gene regions. The genetic diversity and population structure within and between species and sampling locations were investigated using a dual marker approach: (1) 2 concatenated mitochondrial gene regions, namely COI and the control region (n = 117), and (2) 9 nuclear microsatellite markers (n = 146). The overall genetic diversity was moderate, with an indication that different evolutionary forces are at play on a mitochondrial versus nuclear level. The 2 species were delineated based on both marker types, and for R. djiddensis, the sampling locations of South Africa and Mozambique were genetically homogeneous. For R. australiae, significant differentiation was found between sampling locations, with Madagascar and Tanzania being genetically the most similar. This information provides critical insights into the distribution range and population structure of the whitespotted wedgefish species complex that can support the sustainable management of wedgefishes.
Mitochondrial and morphological adaptions of Lindaspio polybranchiata (Annelida: Spionidae) in the South China Sea
Authors: Yan Y , Wang M , Wu X , Wang H , Zhong Z , Li C
Published: January 2024

A dense population of Lindaspio polybranchiata (Annelida: Spionidae) was discovered in a novel cold seep with drastic methane seepage located on the northern passive continental margin of the South China Sea. L. polybranchiata may function as a pioneer species by rapidly colonizing this nascent methane seep. We studied its classification status and evolutionary selection adaptation based on the mitochondrial genome. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the deep-sea genus Lindaspio clustered with the neritic Rhynchospio aff. asiatica, and the ancestor of the deep-sea Lindaspio might originate from shallow-water spionids. Twelve potentially adaptive mutations were identified in cox1, cox3, cytb, and nad5. The morphological characteristics of L. polybranchiata and R. aff. asiatica collected in the intertidal zones were systematically compared to explore the possible phenotypic adaptations of L. polybranchiata to extreme deep-sea environments. L. polybranchiata lost its eyespots due to long-term colonization of the dark habitat in the deep sea but developed an enlarged caruncle for facilitating chemical perception in the darkness. The specific ventral branchiae and extended respiratory surfaces may aid the survival of L. polybranchiata in the hypoxic environment of the cold seep. This study provides novel insights into the molecular and morphological adaptations of a species endemic in chemosynthetic ecosystems.
Efektivitas model pembelajaran creative problem-solving terhadap kemampuan siswa menyelesaikan soal HOTS di SMP negeri 2 Langowan kelas VIII
Authors: Mandey Angela Fern , Tilaar Anetha Lyta Flora , Tumalun Nicky Kurnia
Published: January 2024

Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengevaluasi model pembelajaran Creative Problem Solving (CPS) dalam pengajaran informasi sistem persamaan linear satu variabel dan meningkatkan kemampuan menyelesaikan masalah yang memerlukan Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS). Dengan menggunakan desain eksperimen semu, penelitian ini membagi siswa menjadi dua kelompok: satu kelompok yang menerima pembelajaran dengan menggunakan model CPS, dan satu lagi yang menerima pembelajaran dengan menggunakan metode yang lebih konvensional. Seluruh siswa kelas VIII SMP Negeri 2 Langowan tahun ajaran 2022-2023 menjadi bagian dalam penelitian ini. Kelas VIII B sebagai kelompok kontrol dan kelas VIII C sebagai kelompok eksperimen; 25 siswa dari setiap kelompok menjadi sampel. Ujian, lembar observasi, dan angket digunakan untuk mengumpulkan data. Metode deskriptif dan inferensial digunakan untuk menganalisis data. Hasilnya menunjukkan bahwa dibandingkan dengan kelompok kontrol, rata-rata kinerja kelompok eksperimen lebih baik. Tidak hanya itu, komentar siswa terhadap paradigma pembelajaran CPS sangat menarik, dan tingkat partisipasi mereka di kelas eksperimen terus meningkat. Temuan menunjukkan bahwa paradigma pembelajaran CPS berhasil dalam situasi khusus ini.
Physicochemical, colour, textural, rheological and sensory properties of goatmilk mozzarella cheeses as affected for acidulants
Authors: Verma Arun K , Singh Tarun Pal , Rajkumar V , Gururaj K , Singh MK , Kushwah Tanuja
Published: January 2024

The present study aimed at investigating the effectof four acidulants, viz., acetic acid (CAA), citric acid (CCA),hydrochloric acid (CHA) and lactic acid (CLA) on quality andacceptability of goat milk mozzarella cheese. Four differenttreatments were prepared using 25% (w/v) of acidulants and their physicochemical, functional, colour, textural, sensory and rheological properties were evaluated. No significant difference in cheese yield, pH, protein and fat were observed among treatments. However, titratable acidity for CCA was significantly higher (p<0.05) than for other treatments. Moisture and ash contents in CAA were significantly higher (p<0.05) than in CLAand CHA. Cheese CAA had significantly lower (p<0.05)meltability than the other treatments. The fat leakage for treatmentCCA was significantly higher (p<0.05) as compared to othercheeses. The Hunter colour redness (a*) value for CAA was significantly higher (p<0.05) compared to the other treatments. The yellowness (b*) value of treatment CAA was significantly higher (p<0.05) than the treatment CLA. The hardness and chewiness values for the treatments CAA and CHA were significantly higher (p<0.05) compared to the other two treatments. Cohesiveness and gumminess values were the highest for the treatment CAA, while these were the lowest for the treatment CLA. The evaluation of frequency and temperature sweeps of cheese samples revealed that the storage modulus(G’) and loss modulus (G”) for the treatment CHA was the highest, while the treatment CLA had the lowest values. The sensory characteristics of the cheeses from different treatments were statistically similar (p>0.05) except colour and appearance score, which was the highest for CCA. It can be concluded that though the type of acidulants had significant effects on various quality parameters of goat milk mozzarella cheese, their overallacceptability remained unaffected.
Trend and future perspective of milk production in Karnataka
Authors: ST Pavan Kumar , K Milind , HG Kencharaddi , Lahiri Biswajit
Published: January 2024

The present study was conducted to understand the present and future perspective of milk production in Karnataka and to develop a suitable model for prediction of milk production in the state. The present study is having advantage as the past trends of milk production in the state have been impressive with growth, contributing significantly to overall milk production in the country. The Auto-Regressive Integrated Moving Average(ARIMA) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) models were applied to the data sets of different dairy units for modeling and forecasting milk production in the state. The milk production of different dairy units has indicated a significant and positive trend over the years (Mann Kendal and Sen’s estimator). The purpose of the study was based on the accuracy criteria to identify the best ARIMA and ANN models for forecasting. It was found that the ARIMA model predicted cows, goats, and total milk production with better R-Square, MAPE and percentage prediction error compared to ANN models. ANN model performed better in predicting the buffalo’s milk yield compared to the ARIMA model. The best-identified models were used for out-sample forecast.
Effect of vacuum packaging on hardness of Kradi cheese stored at different temperatures
Authors: Punoo Hilal Ahmad
Published: January 2024

This study investigated changes in hardness property of kradi cheese stored under vacuum and normal conditions at25oC, 5oC and -20oC at different intervals. At 25oC storage temperature hardness was affected by atmosphere whereas storage periods did not affect hardness of samples. At 5oC storage temperature both atmospheres as well as storage periods affected the hardness of samples. At -20oC storage temperature, it was observed that both atmosphere as well as storage periods affected the hardness of stored samples. Hardness in normal packed samples decreased more as compared to vacuum packed samples. The vacuum packaging retarded textural changes related to hardness in comparison to normal packaging.
Narrativas (auto)biográficas de professores(as) do Nordeste brasileiro: uma revisão sistemática da literatura
Authors: Silva Joaklebio Alves da , Virgílio Laryssa , Nascimento Rayssa Oliveira do , Maknamara Marlécio
Published: January 2024

O artigo consiste em uma revisão sistemática da literatura e objetivou mapear as narrativas (auto)biográficas de professores(as) do Nordeste do Brasil, a partir de Trabalhos de Conclusão de Curso (TCC) de graduação e/ou pós-graduação, assim como outros tipos de produção que as apresentam. Utilizamos, como campo investigativo, os repositórios institucionais online de 16 universidades federais dessa região do país, a partir de descritores para busca dos trabalhos. Após estabelecermos critérios de inclusão e exclusão, totalizamos 406 trabalhos, contabilizados e analisados por ano de publicação, instituição de origem, nível de ensino, formato e tipo do trabalho, método utilizado, contexto de ensino/aprendizagem e campo disciplinar. Os resultados revelam que as pesquisas sobre essa abordagem teórica e metodológica vêm sendo amplamente produzidas nos diversos campos disciplinares, indicador de que a abordagem (auto)biográfica na comunidade acadêmica é utilizada como metodologia e se consolidado como campo de pesquisa.
Para além da ilusão: biografias sociológicas como método de pesquisa
Authors: Caprara Bernardo Mattes
Published: January 2024

O objetivo deste artigo é situar a biografia como método relevante de pesquisa, atualizando sua validade para além de uma dimensão individualista ou subjetivista. Nessa direção, o texto resgata as contribuições da sociologia compreensiva e da fenomenologia para o emprego de dados biográficos no trabalho científico. Depois, apresenta a crítica de Pierre Bourdieu ao uso desses materiais, apontando a proposta de biografias sociológicas de Bernard Lahire como uma via metodológica com potencial revigorado para a utilização de relatos biográficos. Por fim, posiciona o argumento de que uma abordagem em escala individual, como a designada por Lahire, pode dialogar com alguns dos principais dilemas epistemológicos da atualidade.
Revitalizing lead-acid battery technology: a comprehensive review on material and operation-based interventions with a novel sound-assisted charging method
Authors: Juanico Drandreb Earl O.
Published: January 2024

This comprehensive review examines the enduring relevance and technological advancements in lead-acid battery (LAB) systems despite competition from lithium-ion batteries. LABs, characterized by their extensive commercial application since the 19th century, boast a high recycling rate. They are commonly used in large-scale energy storage and as backup sources in various applications. This study delves into the primary challenges facing LABs, notably their short cycle life, and the mechanisms underlying capacity decline, such as sulfation, grid corrosion, and positive active material (PAM) degradation. We present an in-depth analysis of various material-based interventions, including active material expanders, grid alloying, and electrolyte additives, designed to mitigate these aging mechanisms. These interventions include using barium sulfate and carbon additives to reduce sulfation, implementing lead-calcium-tin alloys for grid stability, and incorporating boric and phosphoric acids in electrolytes for enhanced performance. In contrast, operation-based strategies focus on optimizing battery management during operation. These include modifying charging algorithms, employing desulfation techniques, and integrating novel approaches such as reflex and electroacoustic charging. The latter, a promising technique, involves using sound waves to enhance the electrochemical processes and potentially prolong the cycle life of LABs. Initial findings suggest that electroacoustic charging could revitalize interest in LAB technology, offering a sustainable and economically viable option for renewable energy storage. The review evaluates the techno-economic implications of improved LAB cycle life, particularly in renewable energy storage. It underscores the potential of extending LAB cycle life through material and operation-based strategies, including the innovative application of electroacoustic charging, to enhance the competitiveness of LABs in the evolving energy storage market.
Genetically engineered CD80–pMHC-harboring extracellular vesicles for antigen-specific CD4+ T-cell engagement
Authors: Ishina Irina A. , Kurbatskaia Inna N. , Mamedov Azad E. , Shramova Elena I. , Deyev Sergey M. , Nurbaeva Kamila S. , Rubtsov Yury P. , Belogurov Alexey A. , Gabibov Alexander G. , Zakharova Maria Y.
Published: January 2024

The identification of low-frequency antigen-specific CD4+ T cells is crucial for effective immunomonitoring across various diseases. However, this task still encounters experimental challenges necessitating the implementation of enrichment procedures. While existing antigen-specific expansion technologies predominantly concentrate on the enrichment of CD8+ T cells, advancements in methods targeting CD4+ T cells have been limited. In this study, we report a technique that harnesses antigen-presenting extracellular vesicles (EVs) for stimulation and expansion of antigen-specific CD4+ T cells. EVs are derived from a genetically modified HeLa cell line designed to emulate professional antigen-presenting cells (APCs) by expressing key costimulatory molecules CD80 and specific peptide–MHC-II complexes (pMHCs). Our results demonstrate the beneficial potent stimulatory capacity of EVs in activating both immortalized and isolated human CD4+ T cells from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Our technique successfully expands low-frequency influenza-specific CD4+ T cells from healthy individuals. In summary, the elaborated methodology represents a streamlined and efficient approach for the detection and expansion of antigen-specific CD4+ T cells, presenting a valuable alternative to existing antigen-specific T-cell expansion protocols.
Pyrosequencing analysis of bacterial community changes in dental unit waterlines after chlorogenic acid treatment
Authors: Li Na , Cai Qin-Ming , Hu Ni-Ya , Jiang Shu-ling , Chen Fu-Qing , Hu Qiao-Qiao , Yang Fen , He Chao-Zhu
Published: January 2024

Introduction

The contamination of dental unit waterlines (DUWLs) poses a significant risk of cross-infection in dentistry. Although chemical disinfectants have been effective in reducing number of bacteria, they do have limitations.

Methods

This study aimed to investigate the potential of chlorogenic acid, a natural substance with broadspectrum antibacterial properties, for treating DUWLs. Over a period of three months, we analyzed the microbial communities in 149 DUWLs samples collected from 5 dental units using high-throughput pyrophosphate sequencing.

Results

The results revealed that chlorogenic acid treatment had a significant impact on the microbial community profile in the DUWLs, with the most significant changes occurring within the first 15 days and stabilization observed in the last 30 days. The predominant genera detected in the samples were Bacteroides, Lactobacillus, Streptococcus, Methylobacterium, and Phreatobacter. Additionally, the relative abundance of certain beneficial bacteria, such as Alloprevotella, Roseburia, and Blautia, increased, while the presence of opportunistic pathogens like Mycobacteria significantly decreased. The functional prediction analysis using the KEGG database indicated a decrease in the pathogenicity of the bacterial community in the DUWLs following chlorogenic acid treatment.

Discussion

This study introduces a novel approach for the prevention and treatment of infections associated with dental care.
Development of inclusive practice – the art of balancing emotional support and constructive feedback
Authors: Øen Kristian , Krumsvik Rune J. , Skaar Øystein O.
Published: January 2024

Inclusive education in the context of challenging behavior is one of the most demanding challenges for teachers. Good support systems help teachers become more positive about inclusion and gain greater confidence in realizing that they can succeed. Such support can be provided in the form of emotional support, internal or external guidance, courses, discussions or further education. As an alternative to a traditional individual-oriented approach to inclusion, this article argues that development of inclusive practice requires collaborative learning in the professional community, which again means that teachers have to make their own practice more transparent so that it can be explained, explored and challenged. This article is based on a qualitatively driven mixed-method case design, and the data come from interviews with and observations of 10 teachers, as well as a survey conducted at 16 schools in Western Norway. The findings show that many teachers struggle to find a balance between emotional support and asking exploratory questions about their schools' and their colleagues' practices. At the same time, it seems that schools that systematically ask each other critical questions have cultures that are more strongly characterized by a high degree of psychological safety and high professional standards.
Lifestyle intervention Tai Chi for adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a PRIO-harms based overview of 17 systematic reviews
Authors: Zhang Furong , Chen Xixi , Liu Xicen , Shen Xiaoyu , Liu Tianyu , Zeng Fang , Jin Rongjiang
Published: January 2024

Objective

To systematically summarize current evidence and determine the clinical effectiveness and safety of Tai Chi for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in adults by conducting an overview of systematic reviews (SRs).

Methods

A systematic search encompassing five electronic databases was conducted until July 30, 2023, to identify relevant systematic reviews (SRs) based on randomized controlled trials (RCTs) concerning Tai Chi for T2DM. The methodological quality of the included SRs was assessed using the A MeaSurement Tool to Assess systematic Reviews (AMSTAR 2) and the Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) tool. The Preferred Reporting Items for Overview of Systematic Review (PRIO-harms) checklist was used to promote a more balanced reporting of benefits and harms in this overview. Corrected covered area (CCA) was used to calculate the degree of overlapping primary studies. Primary outcome measures were glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and fasting blood glucose (FBG), while secondary outcomes encompassed health-related quality measures. The GRADE (Grades of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) framework was utilized to assess the quality of evidence for the outcome measures.

Results

A total of 17 eligible SRs were included in this overview. One SR reported negative conclusions, while the remaining 16 reported positive ones on different outcomes. A total of 4 SRs reported adverse events, either absent or minor. Most of the SRs exhibited critically low quality (15/17) and a high risk of bias (14/17), as indicated by AMSTAR2 and ROBIS, respectively. The CCA was 12.14%, indicating a high degree of primary study overlapping. Evidence from 135 results for 24 outcomes concerning Tai Chi for T2DM was evaluated using the GRADE approach, most of which were rated very low.

Conclusion

Tai Chi shows promise as a potentially effective and safe lifestyle intervention for adults with T2DM, particularly in improving HbA1c, FBG, BMI, and overall quality of life (QoL). However, these results should be cautiously interpreted due to methodological flaws observed in the current SRs and the low quality of the SRs based on GRADE. Furthermore, there is a compelling need for additional well-designed, high-quality RCTs and SRs to establish robust and conclusive evidence regarding the efficacy of Tai Chi for managing T2DM in the future.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/, identifier CRD 42019140988.
The effects of metabolic indicators and immune biomarkers on pregnancy outcomes in women with recurrent spontaneous abortion: a retrospective study
Authors: Zhang Jie , Song Zhan , Yuan Hui , Cai Zhu-Hua
Published: January 2024

Background

The etiology of recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) remains elusive despite specific investigations affirming the association between RSA and thyroid autoimmunity (TAI). This study explores the immunological and metabolic profiles of RSA patients exhibiting positive thyroid antibodies and their connection with the rates of first-trimester miscarriage and live births. The aim is to provide further guidance for clinical interventions.

Methods

A retrospective analysis included 478 women with RSA. Thyroid profile, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, and anti-thyroglobulin antibodies were measured in all participants. The clinical characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of RSA women were compared between thyroid autoimmunity (TAI)-positive and TAI-negative patients. Significant factors associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and risk prediction models were explored in TAI-positive patients. Correlation analysis was used to identify specific metabolic or immune biomarkers associated with thyroid autoantibodies.

Results

The prevalence of TAI was 18.6%. Compared with women without TAI, the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentration of TAI-positive RSA was significantly higher (2.80 ± 2.98 vs 1.89 ± 1.17, p=0.006). After 28 weeks, the live birth rate of the TAI-positive group was lower than that of the TAI-negative group, with statistical significance (p<0.05). The immune biomarkers that differed between RSA women with live births and those with first-trimester miscarriages were complement C4 and interleukin-6, respectively, in TAI-negative and TAI-positive women. Then, a risk prediction model for first-trimester miscarriage was constructed for TAI-positive women with an AUC of 0.81. Finally, some factors related to thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO-Ab) levels were explored, and it was found that TPO-Ab levels were positively correlated with free thyroxine and negatively correlated with 25 hydroxyvitamin D, interleukin-4, and fasting blood glucose in RSA patients.

Conclusion

TAI-positive RSA patients have higher first-trimester miscarriage rates and a lower live birth rate, which may be related to metabolic immune shifts in TAI-positive RSA patients.
Discovery of potential biomarkers for osteoporosis using LC/GC−MS metabolomic methods
Authors: Wu Yahui , Yuan Chunhua , Han Peipei , Guo Jiangling , Wang Yue , Chen Cheng , Huang Chuanjun , Zheng Kai , Qi Yiqiong , Li Jiajin , Xue Zhengjie , Lu Fanchen , Liang Dongyu , Gao Jing , Li Xingyan , Guo Qi
Published: January 2024

Purpose

For early diagnosis of osteoporosis (OP), plasma metabolomics of OP was studied by untargeted LC/GC−MS in a Chinese elderly population to find possible diagnostic biomarkers.

Methods

A total of 379 Chinese community-dwelling older adults aged ≥65 years were recruited for this study. The BMD of the calcaneus was measured using quantitative ultrasound (QUS), and a T value ≤-2.5 was defined as OP. Twenty-nine men and 47 women with OP were screened, and 29 men and 36 women were matched according to age and BMI as normal controls using propensity matching. Plasma from these participants was first analyzed by untargeted LC/GC−MS, followed by FC and P values to screen for differential metabolites and heatmaps and box plots to differentiate metabolites between groups. Finally, metabolic pathway enrichment analysis of differential metabolites was performed based on KEGG, and pathways with P ≤ 0.05 were selected as enrichment pathways.

Results

We screened metabolites with FC>1.2 or FC<1/1.2 and P<0.05 and found 33 differential metabolites in elderly men and 30 differential metabolites in elderly women that could be potential biomarkers for OP. 2-Aminomuconic acid semialdehyde (AUC=0.72, 95% CI 0.582-0.857, P=0.004) is highly likely to be a biomarker for screening OP in older men. Tetradecanedioic acid (AUC=0.70, 95% CI 0.575-0.818, P=0.004) is highly likely to be a biomarker for screening OP in older women.

Conclusion

These findings can be applied to clinical work through further validation studies. This study also shows that metabolomic analysis has great potential for application in the early diagnosis and recurrence monitoring of OP in elderly individuals.
Challenges and pitfalls of inferring microbial growth rates from lab cultures
Authors: Ghenu Ana-Hermina , Marrec Loïc , Bank Claudia
Published: January 2024

Introduction

After more than 100 years of generating monoculture batch culture growth curves, microbial ecologists and evolutionary biologists still lack a reference method for inferring growth rates. Our work highlights the challenges of estimating the growth rate from growth curve data. It shows that inaccurate estimates of growth rates significantly impact the estimated relative fitness, a principal quantity in evolution and ecology.

Methods and results

First, we conducted a literature review and found which methods are currently used to estimate growth rates. These methods differ in the meaning of the estimated growth rate parameter. Mechanistic models estimate the intrinsic growth rate µ, whereas phenomenological methods – both model-based and model-free – estimate the maximum per capita growth rate µmax. Using math and simulations, we show the conditions in which µmax is not a good estimator of µ. Then, we demonstrate that inaccurate absolute estimates of µ are not overcome by calculating relative values. Importantly, we find that poor approximations for µ sometimes lead to wrongly classifying a beneficial mutant as deleterious. Finally, we re-analyzed four published data sets, using most of the methods found in our literature review. We detected no single best-fitting model across all experiments within a data set and found that the Gompertz models, which were among the most commonly used, were often among the worst-fitting.

Discussion

Our study suggests how experimenters can improve their growth rate and associated relative fitness estimates and highlights a neglected but fundamental problem for nearly everyone who studies microbial populations in the lab.
Study on the trade-off/synergy spatiotemporal benefits of ecosystem services and its influencing factors in hilly areas of southern China
Authors: Tan Fenglian , Lu Zhaoyan , Zeng Fusheng
Published: January 2024

Introduction

This study aims to investigate the factors influencing ecosystem service trade-offs/synergies (TOSs) in major agricultural production areas in the southern hilly region and to propose optimization strategies to promote ecosystem sustainability in agricultural areas.

Methods

The study used a geographical detector to analyze the determinants influencing the ecosystem service trade-offs as well as correlation analysis, geographically weighted regression (GWR), and a geographical detector to analyze the spatial and temporal evolution of ecosystem service and TOS relationships from 2000 to 2020 in Hunan Province.

Results

The results showed that the comprehensive value of ecosystem services in Hunan Province showed an increasing trend from 2000 to 2020. With spatial heterogeneity, the areas with high values were mainly distributed in the hilly areas in the west, south, and east of Hunan Province, and the areas with low values were mainly distributed in the Dongting Lake Plain and the Xiangzhong Hilly Basin. There was a trade-off relationship between food production (FP) and all other ecosystem services, of which FP has the strongest trade-off effect with habitat quality (HQ). The synergy effect between HQ, water yield (WY), carbon storage (CS), and soil conservation (SC) shows an increasing trend. Gross domestic product (GDP) and SLOPE are the dominant factors for the strength of trade-offs between food supply and other ecosystem services, and Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) are the dominant factors for the strength of synergy effects among ecosystem services. The strength of TOS effects of ecosystem services is determined by interactions or co-influences between the two services rather than by a single component.

Discussion

The results of this study can provide a reference basis for the enhancement of ecosystem services and the sustainable planning of agricultural landscapes in the southern hilly areas.
The IL-17 pathway as a target in giant cell arteritis
Authors: Zeisbrich Markus , Thiel Jens , Venhoff Nils
Published: January 2024

The network of IL-17 cytokines is considered a key component of autoimmune and inflammatory processes. Blocking IL-17 showed great success in psoriasis as well as psoriatic arthritis, and in patients with axial spondyloarthritis. Secukinumab is one of the approved IL-17A inhibitors for these diseases and is now routinely used. In giant cell arteritis, a large vessel vasculitis, there is accumulating evidence for a pathogenic role of IL-17 and Th17 cells, which are part of the CD4+ T-cell subset. Giant cell arteritis occurs in individuals over 50 years of age and many have relative contraindications to glucocorticoid therapy, which today still represents the mainstay therapy. Despite the approval of tocilizumab, which targets the IL-6 receptor, a high demand for glucocorticoid-sparing agents remains that combine the effective suppression of the acute inflammation observed in giant cell arteritis with a safety profile that matches the needs of an older patient population. The first results from a phase II proof-of-principle study (TitAIN) support an optimistic outlook on a potential new treatment option with secukinumab in giant cell arteritis.
People who use drugs show no increase in pre-existing T-cell cross-reactivity toward SARS-CoV-2 but develop a normal polyfunctional T-cell response after standard mRNA vaccination
Authors: Gainullin Murat , Federico Lorenzo , Røkke Osen Julie , Chaban Viktoriia , Kared Hassen , Alirezaylavasani Amin , Lund-Johansen Fridtjof , Wildendahl Gull , Jacobsen Jon-Aksel , Sarwar Anjum Hina , Stratford Richard , Tennøe Simen , Malone Brandon , Clancy Trevor , Vaage John T. , Henriksen Kathleen , Wüsthoff Linda , Munthe Ludvig A.
Published: January 2024

People who use drugs (PWUD) are at a high risk of contracting and developing severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and other infectious diseases due to their lifestyle, comorbidities, and the detrimental effects of opioids on cellular immunity. However, there is limited research on vaccine responses in PWUD, particularly regarding the role that T cells play in the immune response to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Here, we show that before vaccination, PWUD did not exhibit an increased frequency of preexisting cross-reactive T cells to SARS-CoV-2 and that, despite the inhibitory effects that opioids have on T-cell immunity, standard vaccination can elicit robust polyfunctional CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell responses that were similar to those found in controls. Our findings indicate that vaccination stimulates an effective immune response in PWUD and highlight targeted vaccination as an essential public health instrument for the control of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases in this group of high-risk patients.
The Na/K-ATPase role as a signal transducer in lung inflammation
Authors: Silva Adriana Ribeiro , Souza e Souza Kauê Franscisco Correa de , Souza Thamires Bandeira De , Younes-Ibrahim Mauricio , Burth Patrícia , Castro Faria Neto Hugo Caire de , Gonçalves-de-Albuquerque Cassiano Felippe
Published: January 2024

Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is marked by damage to the capillary endothelium and alveolar epithelium following edema formation and cell infiltration. Currently, there are no effective treatments for severe ARDS. Pathologies such as sepsis, pneumonia, fat embolism, and severe trauma may cause ARDS with respiratory failure. The primary mechanism of edema clearance is the epithelial cells’ Na/K-ATPase (NKA) activity. NKA is an enzyme that maintains the electrochemical gradient and cell homeostasis by transporting Na+ and K+ ions across the cell membrane. Direct injury on alveolar cells or changes in ion transport caused by infections decreases the NKA activity, loosening tight junctions in epithelial cells and causing edema formation. In addition, NKA acts as a receptor triggering signal transduction in response to the binding of cardiac glycosides. The ouabain (a cardiac glycoside) and oleic acid induce lung injury by targeting NKA. Besides enzymatic inhibition, the NKA triggers intracellular signal transduction, fostering proinflammatory cytokines production and contributing to lung injury. Herein, we reviewed and discussed the crucial role of NKA in edema clearance, lung injury, and intracellular signaling pathway activation leading to lung inflammation, thus putting the NKA as a protagonist in lung injury pathology.